I cannot believe that it has now been a year since our amazing Grace was placed into our arms. We had dreamed of that moment even before we started the process of adoption.
Then we were there, standing in that room with all the other families.
I had watched many videos of this moment where other families were given their babies for the first time. Parents would be crying, babies would be crying, sweet words were said, lovely music was played and more joyful crying. I watched these videos not only because I enjoyed these moments but also in an attempt to desensitized myself so that I would not bubble over into a sobbing mess when it was us standing there :)
Now it was our turn. We were in that room standing there. We were going to be handed our baby. This was our moment, our video in the making, our life being changed and blessed forever by receiving the gift of a child!
As we waited, I looked around the room at the other families and saw the same scene. Cameras were set and positions taken. Mother's hands were clenched. Quiet conversations were being had, but all watery eyes were on the door that the babies would come through. The anticipation, excitement and questions were all about to be answered in one moment when the parents names would be called out followed quickly by the baby's name. Some of us caught a glimpse of the nannies and some of the babies going into a room across the hall. I to remember seeing them although I do not remember which baby I saw, but it did not matter. I knew that our Grace was there.
Then it began. The first baby was called (I wish I remembered the order, although I have the paper stashed away.) We all knew the order in which we would be called but we still watched the door. The excitement was incredible! Then the next family was called and another baby handed over. Then the next, and the next. Families were being made so fast as babies were united with their parents and other siblings. There was no time for tears, no time to ponder the moment or even think.
Then, our names were called. In a flash, there she was, our little girl, our amazing Grace. The little girl that we had dreamed about for so many years. The little face we had only seen in photos less then 4 weeks earlier. There she was in the flesh now being handed over to Phuong...her mother in every sense of the word! Such an awesome moment. I still tear up thinking about it, even as I type this.
(Although I did not tear up right then...thanks Youtube!)
Honestly though, there was no time for tears. Even the babies were not crying.
I held Grace for only a moment but it was an awesome moment. I gave her back to Phuong because I could feel that she could cry any second, but she was comfortable in Phuong's arms. We were both over joyed.
For that moment, we were the only ones in the room...the only ones in the world. I am sure all the families felt the same way. It was one of the most amazing days in my life that I will treasure always!
Happy Forever Family Day!
