First time ever I saw your Face

One year ago we were sitting in a hotel room in Peoria,IL, getting ready for my cousins weekend wedding. As I checked my email, I saw that a new COP list had been released from Bethany. We requested the files of 3 precious little girls. Now for all previous COP lists, we went over their profiles with a fine tooth comb and had all the docs at the Pediatricians office I work in review their medical history until we were absolutely sure their COP was something we could handle. Now, here we sat in a hotel room with no one to ask any questions of, but unlike all the other times; I KNEW we were suppose to ask for this one little girl. Then on June 24th, we got the call. She was ours and life has never been the same. She definately lights up our lives.

In Just A Few Short Weeks

Wow! In just a few weeks, it will mark our Six month mile stone. The last six months have been an amazing journey with the addition of a daughter to our family. Six months ago I was so ,worried that Noah and Caleb were not going to adjust to having a sister in their lives, because they were not sure themselves. Today, my greatest joy is watching the three of them together. Hannah adores her brothers and if it's possible, I think they love her even more. Since coming home, we have seen cardiology, ENT, cranial facial, dental and speech specialist and have had two surgeries. The first surgery was fairly minor with ear tubes put in and some dental work done. The second surgery was a revision on her palate. This too should have been pretty straight forward, but it actually landed us in the ICU for 24 hours (boy are we are so glad that is over). This week Hannah will begin speech therapy.

Despite the whirlwind of doctors, Hannah has adjusted amazingly well. She completely understands everything we say and she is saying new words everyday. She is such a people person and loves everyone. She loves to give hugs and kisses. It is evident that this kid was loved in China. We will be forever greatful to her foster family and we feel so blessed that she is now a part of our family.

Sunday, January 4th

Hello Everyone,

Wow!! The past 3 weeks sure have been busy, but lots of fun. I started back to work (part time) the week before Christmas. I had a really hard time leaving home that first day, but I actually think it was good for both Hannah and myself. Hannah has had fun spending a few days a week with Grandma and I enjoy a few days of adult conversations. I hope to stay part time for a few more months.

As you can imagine, Christmas was wonderful. After almost 3 years of waiting, I could hardly believe that Hannah was actually Home for Christmas this year. It was so much fun to watch Christmas thru her eyes.