365 days

365 days ago seemed like a day that we had waited for . . . forever.  October 31, 2013 was a long day of traveling.  Kevin and I were exhausted.  "T" was exhausted.  We had been through multiple airports and planes that day.  A friend drove us home from the airport in the rain.  It was Halloween and we knew that "M*", "S", and "T" had been trick or treating and were probably soaking wet.  We entered our home and in the midst of exhaustion and sugar highs an overwhelming peace was suddenly present.  We were home with our littlest girl.  For that moment the world seemed just right.  It had not been an easy road, but we were finally here and "T" home with us.  Peace.  

In the year that "T" has been home so many changes have happened.  She has gone from a very shy little girl to one that is boisterous and definitely the life of the party.  She has learned her 3rd language now (English) and is very much fluent.  (Gumuz was her first language and Amharic her second language.)  She's gone up a size and a half in clothing.  "T" has grown several inches and gained several pounds.  "T" finished 4K and is now doing amazing well in Kindergarten.  Her teacher is amazed at where she is at.  When she first came home she was very reluctant to engage with Kevin in any way.  Now, she's very much a daddy's girl!  She's an integral part of our family.  We couldn't imagine life without her. 
 

So we are so happy to celebrate "Gotcha Day" with Miss "T" today.  Our first one with many more to come.   We love you sweet little "T"!