Friday, October 17, 2008

Reflecting on a year ago....

I have been thinking a lot about Gideon these last few days because a year ago this time we were bringing him home.  I was so anxious to get back to Guatemala.  I thought having Anna home would keep me too busy to think too much about Gideon being away, but it didn't.  Don't get me wrong, it was so precious to have Anna home, but Gideon was definitely missing in our family picture.  I seriously felt like I had a hole in my heart.  I kept trying to convince Ryan to let me go over and foster, but it was not happening.  Having him in my arms was a dream come true.  It just seemed to take so long.  I still praise God for his amazing foster family!  At least I know Gideon was clueless as to my agony.  He was living with his beautiful family and loving life.

In the last year I have seen Gideon grow in so many ways.  He is so funny and loving.  Ryan and I call him our monkey.  He climbs and dangles off of anything ha can.  He is a loving brother and son and everyone ADORES him.

I will never be able to comprehend why God allowed our family to be blessed in such a way.  I have seen great Christian woman/families who's hearts ache for a child, even just one.  I have 5 amazing children who uniquely bless us and fulfill our lives.  I feel so honored.

Julie 

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Stunning picture of Anna.


I just think this picture of Anna is so beautiful....





Camping Pictures!

Some of the pics are grainy (not sure why).  Most are self explanatory, except the snake one.  Leah walked right beside it on one of the trails and we were all getting ready to walk beside it also (including the 3 little ones) when Leah noticed it.  I hate snakes and I freaked when I saw this one because it was so big.  We got the other kids back and Ryan leaned my camera over the snake and snapped the pic.  When we got home we looked it up and yes, it is a copperhead.  I guess they are pretty common in the Smokies.  We were literally 2 feet from it.