I always wanted one more child. Maybe
it was my Dad always saying that pairs were better than odd numbers.
Someone to always play with, knowing that one was never alone. Our
6th child has been home for a little over a month. If I
were to describe Libbi with one word, it would be “brave”. This
young lady knew nothing about us. We were strangers from another
world who claimed her as their new daughter. She left the only
friends that she had ever known, and Nanny's that loved her as their
own. We spent 3 weeks in China with this beautiful girl. She took
care of us when we couldn't communicate and she made fast and easy
friends with everyone. She was dramatic funny and joyful. She made
us laugh. She trusted and believed that we would take care of her,
and that everything would be ok. Her first month here must have been
terrifying at times. Our only source of communication was through
technology, kindness, a hug or a smile. We tried to make sure that
she knew that she was loved all the time, everyday and no matter
what. But it must have been oh so lonely at times, laying in bed,
thinking about China and remembering all that she left behind. She
told us that she missed China. Big crocodile tears rolled down those
pretty cheeks. She was home. She had a family. But sometimes to
Libbi, home was far away and to her, home was still China. She is
finding her way. We found someone to help her communicate with us,
and to explain our culture. She has teachers at school that help us
interpret as well. When she can communicate she is enthusiastic, she
is happy, she is in her element. Libbi had a choice. She could have
stayed in China, with people that she trusted and with friends that
she loved, but she chose us. She chose to become part of our crazy
family. I could not wait to get back home after 3 weeks in China, I
was ready to get home. Libbi has been home 5 weeks. I can only
imagine how she must feel sometimes. But she is learning to trust
us, and maybe learning to love us. She is a wonderful daughter and
every day we see a little more of our girl. She is opening up, and
she is becoming more confident and relaxed. She melts my heart.
Libbi made a choice in China, and she chose to be brave.
On this Mother's Day, I will celebrate
my children. I will celebrate a very good husband. I am thankful
for an amazing Mom who was my role model. I am going to have a great
day! I am so thankful to be a Mama of 6.
