One year ago today, our daughters arrived at an orphanage.
Frightened. Having lost everything and everyone they’d known.
Thousands of miles away, Rob and I were waiting with empty arms and hopeful hearts. In prayerful expectation over the children who we believed God had for us.
But today…
Today, those two little girls are four and a half months home with their mommy and daddy who love them like crazy.
Today, two sets of little feet came pitter-pattering down the stairs, and two sleepy, smiling faces peered up at me and said, “Good morning, Mommy. Daddy at work?”
Today, those two little girls snuggled up on the couch with me as we watched Sesame Street.
Today, I painted two sets of miniature fingernails and toenails.
Today, I had two helpers in the kitchen.
Today, I heard “please” and “thank you” and giggles and laughter. And even “You’re so cute, Mommy” and “Awwwww, Daddy – so cute, Daddy.”
Today, many hugs and kisses were exchanged, and many more “I love you’s” were expressed between those two little girls and their mommy and daddy.
Today, we are family.
It is amazing what can happen in a year.
Oh, how I love our little family. These girls could not be more perfect for us. Every part of the road that brought us to our daughters has been worth it. The waiting, the disappointment, the waiting, the heartache, the waiting. All of it is being redeemed. Daily. And, I believe that every part of our daughters’ journey is being redeemed, as well.The Lord has blessed us beyond measure.
…put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption.
Psalm 130:7
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Elya and her husband, Rob, have been married for 6 years and reside in Cleveland, Ohio. They have recently been blessed with two incredible daughters, ages 3 and 5, who they brought home from Ethiopia this past April. They also have two crazy but lovable dogs. Stop by Elya’s blog to read more about their daughters, their adventures as new parents, and their passion for orphans and the poor.
I am so very, very happy for you. The girls are precious.
Thank you very much!!!
What a beautiful post! There is something just simply beautiful about a family. I really appreciate that reminder Elya. Your family is just precious!
Thank you very much, Beth!!!
Oh my goodness. This post is so beautiful. Brought tears to my eyes reading about the powerful redemptive work of Christ! Thank you for sharing! ~ jen
Thank you very much, Jen!!! God is continually speaking “redemption” into my heart and over our family…it is amazing to see what He has already done, and I cannot wait to see all that He has yet to do! God bless!