Natalie

This is a little video of Natalie talking about her "Russia House" and becoming a family. We actually showed this at the kids' dedication last week.

It's sweet... but perhaps a bit embellished on her part (as she talks about crying for a family). Justin has very clear memories about meeting us for the first time and then waiting for us to come back. The girls really didn't understand it at the time. However, since we've been home, we've talked a lot about the process. We've prayed for the friends they left behind and hope they will also have a family one day.

Our time with Natalie in the orphanage was actually pretty strained. Mostly, she wanted nothing to do with us. She was very, very quiet and non emotional. Very little eye contact. Very little physical touch. So, while I don't know if she was outwardly "crying for a family" at that time, she certainly was on the inside.

We still struggle with her emotions being authentic sometimes, but one thing is for certain: Our little girl has a forever family. We pray we can be her safe place. The place where she knows unconditional love, experiences healing of past hurts, and rests in the comfort that we are forever.

Lexi's Moves

I forgot I hadn't posted this video. It's almost too dark to see, but the spirit of Lexi definitely shines through.

Oh, how she makes us laugh.

It's All About Perspective

Monday is usually a shopping day. The four of us will either hit Sam's Club, Albertson's, or Target. I never imagined I'd be able to do any kind of shopping with 3 little ones in tow. But, we've got a pretty good system down by now and the kids usually do just fine.

Monday is also usually the day I hear this comment:
You sure have your hands full!

I usually get that at least once.
I smile and nod.
It's true.
(Not sure if the remark is more about the cart full of 3 kids or the fact that I'm trying to push the cart with one hand and one elbow. The other hand is usually occupied by Starbucks.)

However, on a recent Monday, I was stopped by this sweet little woman. She had a very thick accent and some serious crazy old lady hair. She smiled at the kids and patted Lexi's hand. She turned her wrinkled face and kind eyes toward me. I smiled back at her and waited for the inevitable "hands full" comment.

And then she said:
My, you sure have... a lot of help!

For some reason, that really touched me. I just love that she had that perspective. To be honest, it was a little convicting too.

I was reminded of the importance of not taking these little moments with my children for granted. I was reminded that my "full hands" are something to be very, very thankful for.

Dedication Sunday

Yesterday was a very special day for our family. We stood before our loved ones and church family and dedicated our children.

Our Dear Justin, Natalie, and Lexi,

It is our joy and blessing to be your parents. In our hearts, we have always been confident that the Lord has protected and watched over your precious lives. We've never doubted that God has unique plans for each of you. We will continue to trust you to the Lord and guide you in His instruction.

You are supremely loved little ones.

Yours Forever,
Mama and Papa