One year ago today, Nami and I walked into a tiny room in an orphanage in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and met a frightened, little baby girl named Elroi Adonai ElShaddai. We nervously tried to talk to her and touch her hair as she frowned very strongly at us and continued holding on to the nun from the orphanage.
When they finally placed her in my arms, she just wailed and cried, as did I in that moment. What a day that was! What a day I will never forget! In the adoption world, this day is known as the "gotcha day." And, today is that day!
Here are a few pictures of our precious daughter over the past year. I truly stand amazed at the changes she has gone through during this time, and how she has blossomed into the loving and joyful little girl that she is today! What grace the Lord has had upon us! I am so unworthy of such a precious gift as she is, and her brothers also.
Over the last year, we have seen a fair share of trials, yet I continually praise and thank my Father for His goodness and love toward us. My desire for this coming year in my own life is to learn and practice true contentment no matter what my circumstances. I look at my daughter and I see her spirit so strong, so forgiving, so hopeful. Her latest phrase to me while she is looking widely into my eyes is, "You MY mommy." "Yes, Ellie. I'm YOUR mommy. That's right. I'll always be your mommy." Then she replies, "Yes, you Ellie's mommy fo-EVUH!"
A warm and love-filled THANK YOU to all of you who helped to make this adoption a reality by the grace of our Lord Jesus. By your prayers, your encouragement, and your giving, you are an important part of her life and her calling. Blessings to you always!
Enjoy the photos of Miss Ellie from Mar.08-09 and I dedicate this song "Bless the Broken Road" to her as well. Please feel free to send a comment to Ellie on her special day! I will print out this page with the comments and save them for her.
4 comments:
What a sweet little girl you are Ellie! Bless you, sweetheart!
Love, prayers, and blessings,
Hannah
Ellie,
There are no words to tell you how blessed we feel today to have received you into our family. When I think about the time that has passed since we first laid our eyes upon you, it seems like only yesterday. And yet, it seems like you have always been with us.
You are God's gift to us, as are Abraham, Micah, Lily and Wesley. Beautiful grandchildren that we will cherish always.
We love you with all our heart.
Pappy and Mimi
Ellie, I've never left a comment but I wanted to let you know I have enjoyed following your journey. This last year sure has been filled with lots of new experiances and you are such a brave girl, smiling through the journey. Your parents sure are lucky to have you in their life! Keep smiling
I loved seeing the pictures and how she has changed into such a happy little girl! congratulations!
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