Our New Normal

There's nothing like a trip to the beach to escape the stress of life, and there's nothing like coming home to relax after a long trip! We're so glad to be back to "normal" life--albeit a very new kind of normal.

Now that we're settled in, we're experiencing what it's really like to be a foursome. Leila Madeline is as sweet as ever, although she has definitely discovered the power of her vocal cords. She sleeps about 18 hours a day (often snuggled up to me in the ergo carrier--like right now). Wade is back to work, and Liliana is enjoying her typical daily activities. When Leila is awake, Liliana takes a break from her dolls (or bike or sandbox) to love on her little sister. As for me, I'm sleep-deprived and covered in spit-up, but the baby in my arms is worth every un-glamorous moment.

I am overjoyed to have two little girls, and I'm so thankful that God has entrusted us with Leila Madeline. She is a blessing to our family, but I must honestly say that adoption is a difficult road. The uncertainty of this process (particularly with the ongoing risk) continues to weigh on me--day in and day out. I try to place my trust in God and put my anxieties aside, but it's much easier said than done. The uneasy feeling is always present--and probably will be for the next 45-75 days (depending on how things unfold)--and it's so hard to just enjoy the moment.

Please pray that Leila is home to stay and that our hearts would know peace and comfort in the midst of this stressful process. Also, please lift up Leila's birthmother, Dana, and her family as they continue to adjust to their new normal. I think about them often and look forward to their role in our child's life.

Despite the inescapable uncertainty, this is an intriguing and beautiful adoption story...and what an amazing Author! All glory and praise to our loving God.