The Boys - Gotcha Day

What a wild, and wonderful day it has been...

Two boys, totally different, unique in their responses, personalities, behaviors...so much to learn.

Graham has been in foster care with the same family for 2.5 years. He is grieving so very hard. There were times today when the girls and I were weeping with him...as he asked me to take him home. He was so brave, soldiering on, his heart full of fear. He has clung to me (Momma) like none of the children we've received through adoption ever have (I've never been the lucky one.) He is my shadow and he readily calls me Momma...another first for me, so quickly! By the end of the night we saw some smiles as his Jie Jies (older sisters) feigned fright each time the jack-in-the-box blew its top.

Silas has lived in the orphanage for the same period of time (the boys are only 1 week apart in age.) Silas was obviously well cared for as he is a little chunk! He seemed at first to be very easy and placid...but we got belly laughs out of him within an hour...alternately hugging and laying on his Daddy's chest...then cackling when tickled. He seemed to drink in all the touching, hugging, and loving on him...he was so ready for us.

First the video (first time I've ever spliced something like this together, which will be obvious, I'm in a hurry and Graham has not gotten off my lap all night, so sorry for the poor quality!) and then some pictures...

Some Silas Photos from the day:

Then poor Graham, he struggled so...this is the way it has always been with our children who have come from foster care. The beginning is so terribly, terribly painful for the children and for us to watch and walk alongside them during the grief. Even though we KNOW that this will pass and that he will love and be bonded to us...it does not make these days any easier.

Thankfully, by evening, as I said, we began to see a bit of sunshine through the clouds...

Tomorrow morning we head back to the Civil Affairs office, where we will sign the papers to finalize the adoption of these two precious children.

Tonight is the last night that they bear the name given to them by a kindly benefactor at the orphanage when they belonged to no one...when they were orphans...tomorrow they will be given their new names, as beloved sons...a family name that they will always bear, for because of Him, they belong with us.

Because of His steadfast love and faithfulness poured out on us...and for His glory alone...

...celebrate with us these amazing blessings we've been given!