Happy Adoption Day, Katie Mei!

Today marks the first anniversary of the day Katie Mei became our daughter. It was such a nerve-wracking morning for me. We had to get up very early for a 5:30 am bus ride and flight to Nanchang, and I was near nauseaus with concern about her health. I kept thinking how this was the day that my life was really going to change--I was going to become the mother of a child with a special need that could never be cured. A child with a broken heart which could ultimately break mine. We had so many unknowns ahead of us, and I remember praying continually the night before that flight and all during the flight that God would keep His hand on her and keep her healthy enough for the trip home. When we boarded our flight, the moon was up and the sky was a beautiful pink. Pink. A color we would come to appreciate so much in the future.

After settling into our hotel room and getting ourselves rested, we went to the civil affairs office at 3:15 pm. There was only one other family with us that day, and we both met our daughters at the same time. A nanny brought in Hui Qi, our Caroline Mei, all bundled up in a yellow coat and winter pants and about three layers of clothing under that. She was a quiet child with serious eyes, who just stood there as her nanny spoke to her, listening intently, staring at me as I squatted on the floor in front of her. I would love to know what the nanny said. I tried speaking to her and just held my hands out to her. After a few moments of checking me out, Caroline Mei leaned into me and my heart just melted. I knew I was in love, and would do anything in the world to protect and care for this child.

Everything after that is history. Caroline Mei has become affectionately known as Katie Mei, and she has become the love of our lives. She endured her open heart surgery with some difficulty and complications, but is now doing amazingly well. She is a funny, happy child who loves to pick on her older brother, imitate her sister, and live life with gusto. She is quiet around strangers but really opens up and lets loose when she's comfortable. She's got a strong will and fears little. She is affectionate, yet stubborn; shy, yet hilarious. We absolutely love her and are grateful for every day we have with her.

Katie Mei, you are a testimony to God's goodness, and the power of prayer. I love you, and the laughter and joy you bring to our family each day. God bless you and keep you, my darling!

Love,

Mommy