The Beginning of the Rest of our Lives

J sleeping with both his beloved "PB" and Ada's new bunny.

A proud brother giving his little sis a special present.

Today was the beginning of an amazing journey. Today was the day we got to hold and play with our Ada. The morning started with a tumult of emotions. Excitement, anticipation, .....a good dose of anxiety. Not knowing how our baby girl would respond to us, how our big boy would handle a day at a baby home or what our day would really look like. We were picked up from the bed and breakfast at 8:30 and driven to Ada's baby home. Greeted by one of the main caregivers and led into their living room where there sat our sweet girl. I think she sensed something was up. While the first hour or so she kept her distance seeking the security of the arms of her care giver she soon warmed up enough to let me hold her. While her initial distance was difficult to endure we are thankful for it as it indicates that she has a healthy fear of strangers...boding well for a good attachment to her new family. All the babies at the home were feeling a bit under the weather today so she was extra snuggly.....which I didn't mind one bit. We spent the day meeting volunteers and playing with the babies. Helping with feeding and changing and taking notes on routines during nap time. It is quite evident that Ada has been well loved. There will be many a tear shed when she leaves.

J was a trooper. We are so proud of him. He was gentle and patient with his baby sister. Clearly excited to meet her and wanting to engage in play with her right from the beginning. Having slept with her bunny last night he was anxious to give it to her. He was helpful during nap time lending a hand at sorting donations and had fun interacting with the volunteers.

Leaving our sweet girl this afternoon felt strange. It feels like she belongs to us. I can't wait for the day we can take her home, the day we can become a family unit......only four more sleeps! We are back at the baby home all day tomorrow. Please pray for our boy, that he would have the endurance to make it the day with babies again. Pray that we would have wisdom as parents to balance the need of both our children, spending time Ada and recognizing when J has reached his limits. Pray for our health. Snot and germs abounded at the baby home. Ada is already sick but it would be lovely if the rest of us could maintain our health throughout this transition. I can't wait to share pictures of her beautiful face....but that will have to wait until after court.

Sweet Snuggles....can't wait to show you this beautiful face.