Our Farewell

It's hard to believe that 5 weeks ago we stood anxiously and nervously in the airport awaiting the arrival of our host child, Viktorija. I was so nervous, I felt as though my chest would explode! Fast forward to today...Viktorija's departure. We could NEVER have imagined how difficult the "good-byes" would be. Tracey went with us to the airport to take pictures. You could see the sadness in the eyes of all the host families. Certainly many tears were shed. Those that are planning to move forward with adoption had, at least, that bit of comfort. The hard part was not being able to tell Vikotorija that we want her. In case something should happen that an adoption couldn't happen, they don't want the children's hopes dashed.

We had time at the airport together before they took the children through the gate. We played a couple of games of UNO to keep her distracted. But, as the time drew near I could sense her anxiety. Moments before she had to leave us, we prayed. She then clung to me and shed the first tears I have seen from her in all of the 5 weeks she's been here. It was truly heartwrenching. I was doing my best not to sob uncontrollably. As she walked away, I felt such an emptiness. It was like our own child was leaving us. Another host family that we've had the privilege of getting to know, Kirk and Beth Blevins, understood completely. I thank the Lord we had each other to lean on. These are special people that I feel will be a part of our lives forever.

Yesterday Viktorija was given a gift of $10.00 by Mike's mom. She asked Mike if she could go shopping and get something for me. She came home with a a lovely candle (that smells wonderful!), and a silver necklace with a dolphin on it. She knows I like dolphins. It was quite touching that she would do something so thoughtful and unselfish. I don't know when I'll take the necklace off:-)

Last night, Viktorija was reading about the birth of baby Jesus in her Bible. I asked if she knew why Jesus was born. And, she told me so He could die for us. I was happy to know that she understood this. She promised to continue reading and learning English.

I'm so thankful that we listened to God's call to be a part of the hosting program. This has been by far one of the best experiences of our lives. God has worked a miracle in our lives, and we are trusting Him as we continue on this journey. For all of you prayer warriors out there, we need your prayers for a smooth and speedy adoption process. Our hope and wish is to have her with us by Christmas. But, this will probably take a miracle.

Below is a message (in English) that Mike gave to Viktorija (in Latvian) scented with his cologne (she likes Mike's cologne) that I think sums it up best....

When God makes parents

He places a special hole in their hearts.

One place for each child He wants to send.

Sometimes that child grows out of love,

safe and warm under her mother’s heart

until she is ready to meet the world.

But sometimes God sees two people

With open hearts and empty arms.

So the angels spread out, searching high and low,

and east and west, for just the right children.

Then tenderly, carefully they guide them home.

Viktorija, since the day your angels led you to us,

We have loved you and have yearned to be there for you.

Now our hearts are yours, and our arms are open.

Thank you, God, for Viktorija!

For our friends that think this blog is coming to an end, you're incorrect. We may not blog as frequently, but we will keep you all posted on the progress of our future with Viktorija. Thank you all for being a part of this journey with us. We love and appreciate each one of you. Your prayers and encouragement are invaluable.

Sincerely,

Mike and Julie