It has been quite an experience over the last few months to adjust to our growing family and witness the effects of an institutionalized system on a child. Hope differed from all the other adoptive children my parents were with because she had had no previous bonding with anyone. She found security in her own little world. Some bonding landmarks Hope has made since she arrived home include intentional eye contact, obeying Mom and Dad (she is understanding the English we speak to her quite well), learning to trust Dad and Mom when food is involved (although we have much improvement still to be had in this area), and preferring to play with others than by herself.
As we spend more time with and get to know Hope, our hearts weep for the other children still without families and Christ. My parents will never forget going into Hope’s room and seeing 29 other children staring into space.
We appreciate all your prayers for our family and Hope! Please continue to pray that Hope would love and trust her new family.
A few recent memories…
Kyle turned 17 in December and went on an elaborate scavenger hunt (that I had a great time planning). The final gift was a leaf blower for his lawn business.
Hope loves to read books with us. Ernie’s Bath Book is her favorite.
Entertaining ourselves while we wait for Mom in the car!
Philip sharing one of his favorite stories with little sis.
Special bonding time with Momma. She learned early how to quietly sit with Momma during Bible time. She did great at Church this past Sunday!
The Christmas Miracle with Jonathan Toomey is one of our favorite Christmas books.
Thanks for visiting!
