Today I had the great pleasure of meeting the head nurse (now retired) and social worker in charge of the abandoned babies unit at the hospital where my girl spent the first year of her life. They vividly remember her and shared pictures & stories of her infancy: "She was the most precious baby! Such beautiful skin!! Everyone loved her. She helped us change the way we think about Down syndrome and helping babies stay with their families".
I so thankful that the Lord is giving me a glimpse into my daughter's past. Also in awe that this child who has been stamped abandoned and unwanted for 13 years has had so many wonderful people who have truly loved her; she understands what it is to be loved, wanted and cherished. That makes her connection to me so much more blessed.
Day 56:
Today was my SECOND most favorite day with my girl--THE MOST favorite day will be when we finally have gotchya day. Today we took her swimming for the first time. She has been sporting a swim suit at the orphanage to play in the inflatable pools and she was excited when I told her where we were going, but her eyes nearly popped out of her face when she saw the public swimming pool. She just stared..."pishine!" (pool!). She waded in to her knees and then to her waist then the giggles and uncontrollable smiling came...GOOD! GOOD! GOOD! Mommy! GOOD!
She let me cradle her and help her float on her back and guide her into getting her ears wet. She trusted me to hold her under her arms and allow her feet to come off the ground in mini kicks all the while smiling her face off. She gave massive hugs and kisses and giggles. She tried the twisty slide (only once and she was DONE with that experience) and rooted on Annie, Isaac and Gramma as they came down. She had pool side ice cream and walked under the tall water fountain. So many new experiences with a TON of sensory input. My sweet girl. Do you have any idea how brave you really are? I felt the ugly cry coming as I thought of the memory she was forming for today. She went swimming with her Mommy and brother and Gramma and her Annie; first time at 13 & 1/2 years old. Such a brave-brave girl and her world is only just starting to open up. <3
This evening we had dinner with our dear friends here in Elbasan. They have been such a blessing to us with practical help, and as tour guides and prayer support--they have been real friends. We will miss them and are so thankful for the power of the internet that we can continue our relationship from afar until we all are worshiping together at the foot of the Cross.
Photocredit: Isaac *wink*
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