Butterfly's Forever Family Day 2013

Amazing.

It has been three years since we were in China to bring the Butterfly home..

Three years since we finally got to see the Butterfly in person for the first time.

Three years since we finally got to hold her for the first time.

Three years since we heard those whimpering cries for the first time.

 Three years has gone by so quickly, it seems.  We have all experienced so much in that time.  So many things have happened, so many blessings.  Yet I am sitting here wondering what happened to my little baby, where did she go.

That little baby is now a strong-willed, four year old little girl who is finding her way in this world.  Three years ago she found her way into our hearts, then found her place in our family.

That first week, at fourteen months, she couldn't walk... she couldn't  even crawl.  But, she quickly found strength.  Within a week she was crawling.  Within a month she was walking, and she never looked back!

So, as I sit here writing this.  I look down at my little baby, curled up in my arms and remember the first time I held her.  I remember her frightened eyes and delicate little features.  I remember a baby yearning for love.

Yes, she is still a little baby to me, she always will be in my eyes.  But there are special times that we share.

When she crawls up into my lap,

hugs me tightly,

kisses me softly,

rests her head upon my chest,

and falls asleep in my arms. 

Those are the times when she is my baby.

July 2010

July 2011

July 2012 (We were on vacation and completely forgot to take a photo.  So, I made a little collage of us at that time.)

July 2013

So as we celebrate this special day, the Butterfly's Forever Family Day, I remember that first day.  I remember it all, and I am so thankful for that special day.  My little baby ChenChen is now  my beautiful Butterfly, my little girl... my baby.

I love you little one.

Love always,

~~Mommy