Quick Reflections... March 1, 2012

Three years ago today, I was pretty tired of waiting... After the excitement of locking in on Ellie-Kate, we were stunned and frustrated by the long waits and paperwork involved with finalizing everything. We naively thought that we were going to be on a plane to China within a few weeks. Instead, months later, we waited for one more piece of paper and then one more piece of paper, etc. I remember that we heard that another step was close but then Philadelphia got hit by a huge snowstorm-- another delay. Blessedly, we were able to get past that last step quickly and then we began a blur of rapid preparations for our trip. One day, we were waiting; the next, we were frantically rushing to get plane tickets, etc. for a trip to another continent in just 17 days!

Although we're not headed to China, the rush often seems to continue here with the frenzy of activities and desires. I have been focused on organizing materials for upcoming scrapbooking, given that Chelsea and Emmy will be graduating soon. I wanted to update the blog and so I sit here and write at 11:57 p.m. However, we are trying to slow things down a bit, and Ellie-Kate has switched to a half-day schedule (except for Fridays) so that I can spend more time with her. My, it was wonderful to play dollies today!! I'm going to savor these afternoons :)

For the past few years, March has been a most reflective month, and I can't imagine that it would be any different in 2012. One of Ellie-Kate's friend's moms is having a baby, and Ellie-Kate is starting to ask questions about babies in tummys, etc. She knows that she is from China and that we went there to get her, but I imagine that she will soon know that another woman once had her in her tummy. I can't even imagine how confusing or jarring that news might be. We have freely used the word "adopted" around the house, but I know that she doesn't understand it. Please pray that we handle this situation in the best way.

In 22 days, we will celebrate our third annual Family Day. As time permits, I'll reflect her on what was going on in our lives at various times three years ago. What a precious time of anticipation, preparation, excitement, and joy!

Happy March!

Christie