One Year Ago Today

It is 10:45 p.m. and I am in tears. I just realized looking back in my prayer journal that we matched with Eden one year ago today - December 14, 2006. When I realized this I turned and looked at my daughter sleeping in her pack-and-play in the living room (we're having separation issues at bedtime). She is now home safe and sound with her mommy and daddy. God has brought all 3 of us so incredibly far! He is so good! One year ago exactly I laid eyes on this precious angel for the first time. I am overwhelmed and humbled and indescribably grateful.

In honor of the one-year anniversary, here is an excerpt from my journal, written Dec. 15, 2006 - the day after we first saw her photo.

"When I first laid eyes on her places in my heart came alive that I didn't even know existed. Tears began to fall and I just kept saying to Gene over and over, 'Oh honey she's so beautiful!' The weird thing is the connection I felt with her before I ever knew who she was. Then when I saw her photo, her eyes drew me in. I've always heard 'the eyes are the window of the soul.' When I looked into her eyes I felt that same connection that I had been feeling in my heart for the past year. I can't really explain it except to say I sensed an underlying sadness and longing in her eyes that mirrors what I feel in my heart. Part of each of us won't be whole until we become a family because I believe God created her for our family. We both feel so sure about adopting her. We are going to meet with Karla about the next step tomorrow."

And now, one year later, she is home sleeping soundly. God's timing is perfect - even when it seems to be taking FOREVER. I've posted a photo taken in China last December and one from last week.

Hope you are all having a great Christmas season!