Abby has had a nasty virus for the last few days, out of school since Thursday, she and I even missed church today, but we've had fun just hanging out together... Lots of Trouble (the game...she loves to call herself the Trouble Queen because she always wins, but everyone gets a chuckle out of that one!)... Pick-up Sticks (which she's amazing at) and lots of movies... Some really good ones. (And Abby is better, she'll go back to school tomorrow.)
But last night, she started talking to me about wanting to go back to China. Whenever we've had this conversation in the past, for some reason I feel a little defensive because I think she's asking me to go back, because she likes it better there...
Last night though I finally wised up and asked her what she would like to do if we could go back... I LOVED her answer... She wanted to have a pillow fight, blow bubbles and go to the park on the roof... My heart just melted! Those were all of the first things we did with her in China!! (And of course we have tons of bubbles here and parks and I guess I'll have to arrange a pillow fight...)
I sometimes wonder how we're doing... I think we're making progress, but for some reason I just get insecure sometimes. And life is so busy, I can't help but wonder if we're hurting the attachment process... But what a tremendous moment of encouragement... We may not be doing this perfectly, but God is honoring the desire of our hearts and continuing to break down the walls of her heart...
Final weekly blog – A farewell, not goodbye.
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On June 1st 2011, I wrote this in my first blog journaling our move to
Africa: *“Once we move to Africa, 365 short days from today, we hope you
will con...
3 years ago
5 comments:
Sharla,
I lurk on your blog as we are adopting a soon to be 7 yr old from Chongqing. I can tell you right now I am scared out of my mind. It has actually just started. I think it is the fact we are starting to get closer to going.
I honestly think we will always wonder how we are doing when it comes to the attachment process. I still wonder with Lia. I'm so glad you have been encouraged. Even if anyone read ever single attachment book out there I'd be surprised if they would be able to do it perfectly. Your doing a great job from the sounds of things.
How sweet that Abby wants to re-live those first days she had with you. CG still talks about first meeting us at the hotel in China & playing on the playground at the Marriott in Chongqing. I know with your gentle, loving guidance Abby's heart will continue to soften.
I know how you feel. Even though Sierra is only 3 1/2 and is making great progress, I still know we are not totally "there". Each day is better but you are right, I am the one who is insecure. I love how you are with Abby, how you have let her choose the pace. I wish everyone who is adopting an older child could read your posts. How wonderful that Abby wants to go back to recreate those firsts with you. That must have made your heart sing!!!!
Hugs
Kathie
Sweet post! Our son has requested to go back to Kazakhstan but it always includes a big suitcase with all his toys and us! ;)
That is one of the sweetest things she ever said. I bet you about melted! I remember your trip to China so vividly... her little face, her tears, her hesitation... especially with the pool (my favorite pictures because it's like a little book).
Abby looks so happy compared to those pictures. It's been so fun to watch her come alive... although I know it has ripped your heart out many times.
Hugs,
APril
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