Friday, May 16, 2014

Half-a-Year at Home

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6 months ago today, we pulled into our driveway after traveling halfway around the world and back. With us was the newest member of our family, Elsa.

I thought today would be the perfect day to share some images of those first moments at home.

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Entering our house for the very first time:
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There was so much to take in, furniture, toys, clothes, books, dogs, electronics, cars...  photo 52afa4d9-d3bc-4734-ad19-56eb6f72a9db_zpsa3382901.jpg
[Taking her to see her new bedroom.]

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And then a peek at Alexandra's room...and the computer room:
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Then the girls bathroom...and back downstairs again:
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Next up, a visit to the parlor and a quick xylophone tutorial:
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After her brief music lesson, it was off to the kitchen, where gifts, flowers, and a cake awaited her:
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[Our family tree has six birds on it now!]

Finally - and perhaps most importantly - off to meet Elisabeth!
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Once the house tour was done, the playing began:  photo 6688bb6f-9cb4-479d-a910-dfdae9ce1c5b_zpscabf38cb.jpg

Since we began the adoption process, nearly two years ago, I have had the words to the hymn Because I Have Been Given Much continually in my mind.

Because I have been given much
I too must give
Because of thy great bounty, Lord
Each day I live
I shall divide my gifts from thee
With every brother that I see
Who has the need of help from me

Because I have been sheltered, fed
By thy good care
I cannot see another's lack
And I not share
My glowing fire, my loaf of bread
My roof's safe shelter overhead
That he too may be comforted

Because I have been given much
I too must give
Because of thy great bounty Lord
Each day I live
I shall divide gifts from thee
With every brother that see
Who has the need of help from me

Because I have been sheltered, fed
By thy good care
I cannot see another’s lack and I not share
My glowing fire, my loaf of bread,
my roof saved shelter overhead
That he to me be comforted

Because I have been blessed by
thy great love dear Lord
I’ll share thy love again
According to thy word
I shall give love to those in need
I’ll show that love by word and deed
Thus shall my thanks be thanks in deed
Read more at http://www.songlyrics.com/merrill-osmond/because-i-have-been-given-muchour-savior-s-love-lyrics/#FgUpGC3iLJGuCooM.99
I am lucky to have a family and a home. 
I am fortunate to live in the United States of America.
I am blessed to have food, clothing, healthcare, and an education. 
And I am honored to share it all with Elsa.

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[Elsa Lelise, first day at home, November 16, 2013.]
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