First, we are amazed at how much Joshua has changed. I even think he looks different. He understands more and more everyday and even uses many English words on his own. He very sweetly says "I wuv u" when we tell him "I love you". I know he may not know what he is saying, but it is music to my ears. One thing that I am certain of is how God has changed my heart. I actually worried before Joshua got here that it may be hard to love a child that was not biologically mine. This is a fear many adoptive parents feel, but never talk much about. How wrong I was! How easy it is to love someone God has purposefully placed in your care. Regardless by birth or adoption or some other means of care, God carefully and purposefully places children in our homes and hearts. WE are the blessed ones to have them in our lives and watch them grow.
Other changes around here have been subtle, but profound. I actually feel like things are more manageable. This may sound crazy, but I think Caleb and Amelia have really changed for the better. In the 2 short weeks Joshua has been here, everyone seems to be working well together and things seem calmer and quieter. Caleb and Amelia have a great new focus and everyone feels important and helpful. I am sure this will change once the novelty wears off (Amelia is already becoming annoyed with her little brother), but I am enjoying it while it lasts!
Lastly, I don't think this counts as a change as much as a realization, but we have seen in three short weeks, the true good in people's hearts. Just days before Joshua came home we had a scary day not knowing if the Embassy was going to issue Joshua his visa. We began asking friends and family for contacts with local and state government officials. We had an overwhelming response. Complete strangers were poised and ready to help at a moments notice. This is late, but thank you to all of you who cared enough to help us be ready to "pull a few strings". Now that Joshua is home, we have been flooded with an out pouring of well wishes. Our wonderful friends have kindly supplied us with meals and gifts for ALL of the children. Caleb and Amelia feel like it is Christmas. We have seen just what wonderful friends we really have, not to mention those people we barely know that have sent us gifts via family members. Thank you for sharing in our joy!
Now, a few changes/realizations that are a little less serious...
-Laundry seems to multiply while I sleep and there is no bottom to the basket!
-I have again realized I can change a diaper anywhere!
-Food has somehow changed from something for our mouths to something that is fun to throw on the floor.
-Everything is fun to throw.
-I don't think I have ever run a dishwasher as much. We only have one more child, right?
-Biscuit gets more attention now that in the past few years.
Overall, the past 2 1/2 weeks have been filled with joy and awe. I can't imagine what a lifetime has in store.
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