March 17, 2012

Three years ago tonight, I was tossing and turning in the Hampton Inn by the Columbus airport, nervous that we would miss our early morning flight to D.C. and then to Beijing. After a blur of preparations, both personally and professionally, I was more than ready to meet our precious Ellie-Kate but relying solely on the strength of God to get me through the long flight, far, far from home, as well as a different culture, different language, and different customs. I knew that I would be pushed far beyond my comfort zone in terms of the travel and the people, but I also knew that Ellie-Kate was destined to be in our family so I wasn't apprehensive about our new addition, just the physical and bureaucratic hoops to adding her. As I tossed and turned in that bed, three years ago, I had no idea about how this little girl would thrive physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. However, I focused on the assurance that God would sustain us and enable us to hold that precious little baby who was already part of our hearts, minds, and family.

Thank you, Father, for this amazing gift to our family and for everything that you did on our journey to China. During the next few weeks, I'm going to pause and remember and celebrate because I never want to forget (or take for granted) the gifts of safety, patience, and love that you provide to us-- both in China and before and after that trip.

Christie