I'm Late. Shocker.

I'm late on this post.  Late, late, late.

You see, my kids came home on December 19th, 2010.  So one year and three days ago, our family expanded by two.

And here we are, one year (and three days) later.

We've moved to another state.  We've been on a family vacation.  We've been through ups, downs, and in-betweens.

I've watched two children who wanted nothing more in this world than to have the security and love of a forever family grow, thrive and spread their wings.  I've learned just as much from them as I am hoping that they are learning from us.  I've seen miracles in bonding, trust, and confidence.

I've watched a little girl who had so much pressure to take care of her little brother, let go, and let us handle it.  She still struggles with being a bossy one, but gentle (and sometimes not-so-gentle) reminders help us through that.  I've watched her learn to trust us.  I've watched her watch me, to see how I do things.  And I'm seeing some of the habits I want her to have come shining through.  She has a great sense of responsibility - both for herself and for her actions.  She's an incredible artist, a voracious reader, and a great friend.

I've watched a little boy who was so unsure, who needed a father SO much, become so enamored by his daddy.  I've seen him try so hard to be just like daddy.  He's got a wicked sense of humor, his laugh is infectious, and his empathy is endless.  He loves lego's and Angry Birds, soccer and Taekwondo, and jumping on dad and his big brother.

I've watched a big brother so easily step into a role he was made for.  Such an accepting and nonchalant attitude about these two new siblings.  I've seen him guide, and cajole, and tease, as any siblings will do.

I'm so proud of all of my kids.  I'm so complete with my family.  And I'm so blessed by God.

My kids were recently asked to be in a video for our adoption agency highlighting the need for families for older and special needs children.  The final video came out yesterday.  I tear up every time I watch it, so I am giving you a Kleenex warning NOW.

Enjoy.  And have a very blessed Christmas!!


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