We were meeting our son for the very first time.
Here are bits and pieces of what I wrote in my journal that night.
A letter to Justin...8:45 pm
I'm so tired. 30 hours of traveling and we've barely slept. But, I won't close my eyes before I tell you about The Day I Met You.
You live in an orphanage in Krasnoyarsk, Russia. It's faded blue and 3 stories tall. There are 60 children in your home. Boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 7.
You are 4 and a half years old.
And today we met you for the very first time.
Soon after arriving we were led into a playroom. We took some time to speak with the people who have helped you and taken care of you. We found out a little about your birth family and when you first came to stay at the orphanage. We listened to a social worker, a woman with long, dark graying hair, a mouth full of gold teeth and quite a mustache. Her name was Valentina. She bragged about what a good boy you are. How you are helpful and play nicely with other children. Clearly, she cares for you and is certainly proud of you.
Then, before we were able to talk much more, suddenly there you were!!! A caregiver had led you in, and there you were! Politely saying hello. Big eyes. Dark blond hair. We give you two Matchbox cars, which you gently take with a smile. I'm sitting on the floor, playing with you, but I'm in another place too. Just thinking how this is so amazing. HERE YOU ARE. The words keep repeating in my head. Finally. In front of me. And you are just perfect.
Yes, little one. You are just perfect. I am so thankful that God has been watching over you. You are the answer to my prayers.
You are 4 and a half years old.
And today we met you for the very first time.
Soon after arriving we were led into a playroom. We took some time to speak with the people who have helped you and taken care of you. We found out a little about your birth family and when you first came to stay at the orphanage. We listened to a social worker, a woman with long, dark graying hair, a mouth full of gold teeth and quite a mustache. Her name was Valentina. She bragged about what a good boy you are. How you are helpful and play nicely with other children. Clearly, she cares for you and is certainly proud of you.
Then, before we were able to talk much more, suddenly there you were!!! A caregiver had led you in, and there you were! Politely saying hello. Big eyes. Dark blond hair. We give you two Matchbox cars, which you gently take with a smile. I'm sitting on the floor, playing with you, but I'm in another place too. Just thinking how this is so amazing. HERE YOU ARE. The words keep repeating in my head. Finally. In front of me. And you are just perfect.
Yes, little one. You are just perfect. I am so thankful that God has been watching over you. You are the answer to my prayers.
Here are a few pictures from that first meeting, 2 years ago, that I never posted:
The next day we would meet the girls. More pix and journaling to come. (Really!)
3 comments:
So precious. What a gift your journal is and will be to all of your children. Such beautiful words and feelings that will fill their hearts with warmth and love.
Can't wait for more.
What an amazing gift that God has bestowed upon all of you. You and Scott were blessed with three wonderful children and they each got the parents they were truly meant to have. Happy Anniversary Justin!
I could read this stuff forever! You have an amazing gift of words Chrystal. What a gift for them now and later! love you!
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