One Year Ago

One year ago, Tim and I got on a plane that took us to the other side of the world to meet our daughter. This week, I am remembering with a joyful and thankful heart the journey that took us to Lidiyanna. What an amazing week it was and I will never forget that first moment that I saw her. Tim and I waited nervously on the front steps of the transition home while a nanny brought Lidiyanna out to us. She was wrapped in a purple blanket which now seems so perfect. We always say purple is her color and she just loves her blankets. She cannot go to sleep without them. The nanny placed her in my arms and was wiping Lidiyanna's eyes. She had a cold and her eyes always water when she's sick. I just started crying and felt such a heaviness in that moment. It was a good heaviness but it was one of those defining moments that change you forever.

We spent a week in Ethiopia visiting Lidiyanna every day at the transition home. I treasured each moment there and dreaded whenever our guides told us it was time to leave each day. Lidiyanna was so sweet, smiling whenever I kissed her, making great eye contact with us, and falling asleep in our arms. We bonded so quickly with her, and it was very difficult to say goodbye at the end of the week. I was so thankful for her loving nannies and the way they cared for all of the babies is something I was always be grateful for. I think that's part of why babies from Ethiopia tend to adjust so quickly in their new homes.

Today, as I was watching her play, I could hardly believe it has been one year since I first met her. She has grown and changed so much, and we have enjoyed getting to know our daughter. Thanks for remembering and rejoicing with me.