Three years...

I can't believe it has been three years since this epically life changing day...We walked into the civil affairs office in Hunan China filled with angst and excitement.  Our sweet Mina was understandably scared and traumatized.  We became a family this day and I am forever grateful. 

I know it is a bit cliche to say, "she was born in my heart"  but I feel it...just like I felt it this day, and the first day I saw her photo... I knew that face, I knew she was my daughter that I had dreamed about since I was a teenager.    I tell her all the time that she is my "dream", since she surely is my dream come true.

She was the tiniest, sweetest, timid,  most fragile little thing.  But it didn't take her long to open her heart to us.

She has a giggle that can warm the coldest heart.

 And those eyes, holy cow.  Beauty

We rocked her world a bit when we brought Finn home 14 months later but she has grown into being a wonderful big sister.

Life has been going a mile a minute around here and I got very emotional looking for the photos for this post.  She has grown so much in three years.  I feel like sometimes I miss the small moments in the chaos.  I vow once again to simplify and soak it all in. 

Because this is what I am most proud of.  This is what I could never accomplish on my "to do" list.

Mina, My dear sweet girl, my dream, my love, 

I am so honored to be your Mama.  I am so proud of you, and amazed by you.

Sometimes I look at you and see a teenager, you are so wise and insightful. 

But you will always be my baby.   You are treasured and loved.  You have changed my life and soul for the better.   I know you will accomplish great things.    You have blessed our lives, and we over the top love you!

Here is her gotcha day video.  Which we will surely be watching tonight.  I will need a box of tissues for sure.  I am so thankful for this day.