Leap of Faith

OK, so I have been refraining from writing about this since March 12th for fear that I would jinx it or something would fall through. . . It is still not a done deal, BUT, as many of you already know we were selected as the adoptive family to a five year old little girl from Texas. We are traveling down to the lonestar state on Monday for the week to meet her. We are so excited & a little bit nervous!!! Her name is Vanessa (yes, that is already 7 letters so it won't be changed--I know that was the first thing you were going to ask). :) This picture is the only one that I have of her at the moment. But don't worry, after next week I'm sure I will have plenty. If all goes well next week she will move in with us for a trial adoptive home placement on July 2nd! Caelleb & Tia are very excited to meet her. Caelleb's biggest concern is whether or not she has a bike. :) He loves riding his bike & I think he just wants to make sure that Vanessa will be able to join him. In fact, about a month ago we were looking at bikes (for Bryn & I) and Caelleb pointed out a purple bike and said he wanted that one. I said, "Caelleb, you already have a bike." And his response: "Dis one for dat udder girl." Me: "Vanessa?" Caelleb: "yes!" We are working on him knowing her name but he can't say it very well. Tia, calls her "Nessa." Last weekend Tia helped me pick out a present for her at Toys R Us. She kept saying, "dis for my sister, Nessa?"
Here is what her short profile says about her. . .

"Vanessa is a sweet and gentle child. She is very shy but has an abundance of warmth. Vanessa may have a mildly slower rate of learning and may need a little more time to catch on but her joy and appreciation for learning evens out the playing field. Vanessa is wonderful company. She likes to play with dolls. Watching Vanessa play with baby dolls can teach anyone how to be a good "mommy". She is gentle and loving. Vanessa is quick to share her bright and warm smile. She has a way of making people feel comfortable. Vanessa can look at you with her big beautiful eyes and melt your heart. She will sit quietly in the car listening to music or if engaged will talk until you get tired. . ."

Please be praying for us as we travel down to TX and begin this new relationship & be praying for Vanessa as she begins this transition. I can't imagine how scary this might be for a child so young!!!! I'll keep you posted. . .