One month ago today...

Dear Anna Grace,

One month ago today you joined our family. It was such a special day- your birthday, but you were so scared and sad. You had a large gash on your forehead, dog bites on your leg, and you needed a good bath. Still, we could tell that you were loved by the way that you were grieving. You were so sad and you broke our hearts in the way that you kept crying for your foster mama. Our hearts ached for the pain that you were going through. We fed you, held you, and did our best to make you happy.

In the month that you have been with us, you have learned so much and had so many new experiences. You have grown to love us, just as our hearts have filled with more love for you than we ever thought possible. You traveled all the way across the world to a new country, met your new brothers, and you were introduced to new family and friends. You have learned to climb the stairs to your room by holding Mama's hands, started sleeping in your own little bed, discovered how to work puzzles, and starting speaking many words in English. Just this morning as I was getting dressed for church you made me laugh as you were standing in my bed with nothing on but your t-shirt, diaper, and a pair of pink sunglasses dancing to the Wiggles on TV. You love to dance to the songs that we sing at church, and you love to try new American foods. You have gained a full pound since we have been home from China!

We hope you will continue to grow and thrive. We pray that you will be happy in your new life and that you will learn to know and love God. We want you to have pride in your birth country and embrace your new life in America. God gave us such a special gift when he allowed you to enter our lives, and we will never forget what a blessing you are.

Love,
Mama & Dada