Introducing our newest family member - Nardos. Brad and I just recently returned from a trip to Ethiopia. We sat before a judge and told her that we have met her, we know about all the pain in her past, and yes, we know that this is permanent. Anti-climatically, she scribbled notes on a stack of papers, looked up and told us with a straight face, "the court declares her as your daughter." That's it? No balloons, or bells and whistles? I know I was probably out of place, but I couldn't help it, I squeaked out a "Woohoo!"
Just 8 months prior we sat before this same judge and answered the same questions about Micah and Cassidy. We were not worried, just curious about a foreign process - but when we heard the news from the judge that they needed an approved MOWYCA letter (local adoption approval) before they would become part of our family, our hearts sank. How could we come so far and get "No" as answer? Of course, we soon realized that the answer was not, "No," it was "Not yet."
So, back to August 6, 2013 and this same judge plainly tells us, "We approve your application to bring this child into your family." So, no celebrating in this cold room, just encouragement to quickly move out so the next set of families could hear their ruling. Fortunately we were able to celebrate with the most important person - Nardos.
I look at pictures and am amazed at what God is doing in our lives. There are times when I hear things like, "these kids are so blessed and lucky to have you." I know it is a well meaning comment and stems from thoughts that I have experienced too. But Brad and I would be the first ones to tell you, "We are not good enough for these kids. We don't deserve them." God has taught us so much about love and being vulnerable, through parenting.
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This was taken in November, 2013. Cassidy was so excited to introduce me to her good friend. We had no idea at the time that she would soon be a part of our family too.
This picture was taken in January 2013. We brought
Micah and Cassidy back to the orphanage to say goodbye to their friends.
We remember Nardos was so sad, her last friend was leaving the orphanage.
She worried that she would never be matched with a family. We asked the agency about her and advocated for her to our friends. God soon made it clear that she was meant to be a part of our family.
This
is Nardos and one of her favorite Nannies. I am humbled by the love the
nannies have for the children. Look at the smile on Nardos' face -
beautiful!
All the children are gathered around Nardos as she watches
videos made by Dad and Micah to tell her about life in Utah. Most of them
know Micah and start saying his name. They all love pictures and
videos.
 
Gotta love us some AWAA porch time. Sweet bonding time
with crafts, games, candy and "Amhenglish" conversations (combo
of broken Amharic and broken English to make both parties think that they
understand the message).
I just love him and especially who he is in Ethiopia.
I am such a lucky girl ;)
This was our court day. Nardos changed her clothes
(traded with some of the other girls her size), put on a necklace, nice dress
flats (in lieu of the croc sandals) and a pretty headband, all for our outing
to the Cupcake shop. We were impressed with this place - highly recommend
it if you get the chance to go. The service was the best! It was
very modern and updated, not the typical environment for Addis.
Nardos opened a small birthday gift. Cassidy picked
out the journal for her. Nardos would turn 15 one week later, we had to
celebrate while we were there
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