One Year Later

One year ago today a frightened baby was placed in my arms. She grieved terribly in China. I had just taken her away from everything she had known for the last 17 months of her life. Her heart was broken and mine was so full of love for her. It was a tough time in China for all of us. Kailei cried so hard realizing that I was not all hers. I cried wondering if I could love this child as much as I loved Kailei. It tore me to pieces watching both of my girls so sad. I questioned whether or not I had made the right decision to add to my family. Tears still fall from my eyes as I think about that day and the days that followed. Meilin had been through so much in her young life. She needed time to trust and rebuild her broken heart. The first six months at home were tough. She cried for hours, had night terrors and wouldn't let me out of her sight without crying in fear that I would leave. It took time for her to learn how to be a family, how to love and how to be loved unconditionally. Although Meilin wanted to be held she would not snuggle into me or share her affection with anyone. Oh...what time and love can do. Meilin Rose is now a happy, attached, silly two year old. Her arms now embrace tightly the ones she loves. The light in her eyes shine and kisses and laughter escape her rose bud lips. Kailei and Meilin adore each other. I cry silent tears as I watch the two of them together. It is a gift I have given them both. The gift of each other, sisters forever. My brave Meilin. Her spirit and heart are healed and the world is hers. She is cherished and loved by so many. The pain of her past has been erased and replaced with security, trust and the love of a family. Thank you God for my most prized possessions, my two precious girls from China. Happy Family Day Meilin Rose. I love you with all my heart forever and ever.