This Time Last Year...

...we had just deplaned and were introducing Isabella to her big brothers and extended family for the first time. We, in the adoption community, call this special anniversary "Forever Family Day". It's the day we will celebrate each year for the rest of our lives. It's the day Isabella was "born" into our family. It may be strange to imagine how special this day is if you haven't had the privilege of adopting your daughter or son. Whether my children are biological or adopted the same emotions are present the moment we introduce them to their extended family for the first time... be it in a busy airport or a warm hospital room. I remember the elation, gratitude to God, joy, thankfulness, giddiness and exhaustion all rolled into one. Below is what I posted one year ago today.

"Our plane landed late in the evening on April 30, 2008. Isabella was completely asleep in my arms on the plane and had zero interest at being awakened, changed and primped for her first meeting with her extended forever family. She was a trooper, though! It was the best feeling in the world to see our whole family waiting for us (with signs and balloons) when we got off the plane. My favorite moment was when I had just gotten off the escalator and I had all three of my kids in my arms for the first time. It was brief, but it was probably the best moment of my entire life! It was so hard being away from the boys for nearly a month while I was in Guatemala. Seeing them love and hold their sister right away made it all worth it. I think Isabella's favorite moment was when Grami handed her an Elmo balloon. She stared at that thing the whole night. I think she thinks it's another member of the family! How am I going to break it it her?

'The Lord has done GREAT things for us, and we are filled with joy.' (Psalm 126:3)"

Tonight, in honor of Forever Family Day, my hubby and I watched the video together. All those great emotions came flooding back. A lifetime of prayers were answered in that one moment last year. Thank you, Jesus, for your faithfulness.