6 Month Anniversary

Today is the Six month anniversary of our "Gotcha Day".  We met Shelby on May 30 - Memorial Day and what a memorable day it was, frankly alot of that day was scary for us (and for my Mom, whom I called in tears from Manila).  We thought we had dealt with our own expectations and were ready for a special needs child, but God still had some growing work to do on us (which, of course, is not nearly finished).  Then we actually got to take her with us on June 1st, so that is the day we really celebrate as our "Gotcha Day".  The home where she lived tries to have most families do that with their new child.  We spent a day or two as her guests, just interacting with her and taking her out on little adventures to help her feel more comfortable with us (and us with her for that matter).  We went to the International Adoption Board with her on June 1st, and she officially was signed over to us.  It was happy and scary all at the same time.

It's hard to believe now.  What an adventure!  Our little girl is so much different today than she was just six short months ago.  I am so much different today from having her in my life.  This child that was not born of my body is growing to be such a part of my heart.  The process has been slow and sometimes seemed agonizing for both her parents and for her, yet we are finding love blossoming and joy in the little victories we walk through together.  Every so often when I see Hunter and her playing or giggling together or see her in Scott's lap, I sit amazed that God brought this pint-sized bundle of energy from half-way around the world into our family.

The first picture we ever saw of Shelby (She was about 9 months old).

At ICAB, I guess this is our first "official" family picture.

Outside at their nice sign, she was sooo done with pictures!

This pic is already a couple of months old but I haven't shared it yet.