Little did we realize that 15 years later, we would be sitting in an Irish Pub in Ekaterinburg, Russia, gleeming over our digital photos in the camera of the little girl who was soon going to be our daughter. What an anniversary gift we had last year when it was our first time seeing you again after waiting a long 7 months!
Together at last ~ first moment! (Right before the caretaker opened the door, we heard Kristina say "Mama???" Yep, we were in love ~ hook, line and sinker!)
Our first picture together after 7 months on April 16, 2009!
Playing with a familiar toy we had brought for Kristina on our first visit 7 months earlier.
Mommy and Kristina
Kristina and Daddy
We never got used to the moment when your caretaker would come to the playroom to take you back to your grupa.
You are the answer to our prayers and the realization of our dreams. We love you, Kristina DeAnn!
Love,
Mommy and Daddy xoxoxo
P.S. You started calling Papa "daddy" last week and I do believe that it melts daddy's heart each time you call out to him!
NOTE: When I was looking at video and pictures of this special reunion last week, Kristina was sitting on my lap. This was our conversation as we looked at the pics:
Kristina: Look, Tina sick.
Mommy: Were you sick? How do you know?
Kristina: Look, Tina's eyes....
I sat there just in awe that a 3 year old can have so much insight. She wasn't necessarily "sick" except for the usual runny nose ~ she only needed a heavy dose of love and TLC.
10 comments:
Laura and Jon,
To witness your wedding, the vows you took on that beautiful April day 16 years ago (can't be that long ago!) and to see how your love had deepened throughout all of the joys and sorrows of those past 16 years is truly an inspiration. What a wonderful family you and Jon have made! Laura, my dearest friend, my wish for you, Jon and Kristina is for God's blessings to shine upon you always.
Love,
Anna (OH)
What a great post for Kristina. I love the pictures from your trip to bring her home ... what memories of our own trip and those rooms in Baby Home #6!!
Happy Anniversary Laura and JD!!
Congrats on your anniversary! The pictures are beautiful! So happy that the three of you are together forever now! Congrats on that also!
I know it was 7 months....and I KNOW she is HOME forever and ever...today reading your blog, struck me...SEVEN months. Wow...leaves me speechless. Please give your sweet pea and kiss from her twin sweet pea. They are amazing 3 year olds. The other day Daniel asked me, "Mommy, why you find me in Russia?"
Miss you!
Love to all,
Donna
Beautiful wedding pictures and a beautiful family 16 years later!
Sooo sweet.
Happy Anniversary!
My little Cooper looks at his old orphanage pictures and says "Cooper was sad". It breaks my heart that we didn't get there sooner -
Happy anniversary! That post brought a tear to my eyes.
what a great post and amazing way - every year your anniversary has now added meaning and depth to your incredible relationship and life together as a family... and, i agree w/ donna. 7 months. i can't even IMAGINE waiting that long. your persistence and patience paid off -- she is delightful and so is watching you guys enjoy all the sunshine and flowers she brings :) oh.. and i guess now is a good time to say BLEEP BLEEP given where you are :) wish we were there too! have fuN!
OMG, this post made me tear up. You guys are beautiful. I'm so happy you are a family of three...and what Kristina said makes me so sad. Give her extra hugs and kisses...she is VERY loved!
ahhhh... this post has me in tears. :) Congrats.
- Lisa
www.bigtexhillfamily.blogspot.com
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