One Year Ago Today

LuLu and Jr., April 2009.
(First morning in our family.)


A year ago today we became Jr. and LuLu's foster family.

365 days later, we are no longer a foster family; we are simply a family.

Well, a family with 2 parents, 6 kiddos, 4 pets, lots and lots of schedules, dishes, laundry, homework, and chatter.

I don't think I can really express--in one blogpost--what the last year has done for our family (or what it's been like).

I know that we've experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. But I think that's what a typical year is like for every family.

And as we sat around the counter this morning, all 8 of us, getting ready for the day and talking about "the one year mark," all I could think of was this:

We are better versions of ourselves for opening our hearts/lives to Jr. and LuLu.

And I pray, despite their genuine losses, that they are better versions of themselves for opening their hearts/lives to us.

Each of you kiddos, J, C, K, Jr., P, and LuLu--you're pretty incredible people. God has big plans in store for each of you, I'm certain.

Dad and I love you to the moon and back. Thanks for giving us the blessing of being your mom and dad.




************
PS for Dave:

I am so grateful I married you. I love you.


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