Have I told you yet...?

We received our first draft of our home study yesterday; I can't tell you how excited we are! Later in the evening, I was overcome with thoughts about what a wonderful summer I've had, especially with Alex. We haven't done any traveling or vacationing; we simply have been hanging out at the house, going to the pool, and hanging with friends. It's been awesome.
My beautiful, crazy, head strong daughter is growing into this young lady who has pensive conversations with me, negotiates whether she's going to dance through situations or charge like a bull; she is learning sensitivity and how to nurture. I love her so much. I have loved making her bologna and salami sandwiches (her new favorite), listening to her read books with inflection, nagging her to clean up her messes, and see her glow with pride as she rides her two wheel bike. I am so blessed to have this time to hang out with her. I am appreciating it more than I ever have in year's past.
Alex and I usually go to bed at the same time, so we've recently grown into the habit of reading together in my bed and then falling asleep together. It's probably not the greatest idea, but I don't care! She will fall asleep next to me, while I'm devouring a book. Within a half an hour of her dozing, she's more than likely to be pressed up against me like a panini with her harms draped across me. Then, she will begin talking in her sleep; this is my favorite part. Sometimes she's yelling at someone (more like bossing them around) or trying to convince someone of something, but it is absolutely hysterical. I'm usually giggling in bed. Then, as I hear Steve coming up (he's a night owl), I'll coax her out of our bed. She likes to think that you're going to pick her up, but I think she has inherently realized that she's too tall for me. So, she'll put her hands on my shoulders, stand up, and let me guide her to her room and tuck her in bed. I love this routine. I don't know why. I just do.
So, I just wanted to take the time to let you all know how awesome our Alex is. She's beautiful, witty (like her daddy), and courageous. Thank you, God for this amazing little girl. Thank you for the challenges and the celebrations. Thank you for the moments.

Reality

Thanks to our awesome neighbors, Jamie and Robert, we now have a crib and a dresser/changing table in the baby's room and ready to go! This morning as I lay in bed, again I was overcome with emotion for what our baby's birth mom may be feeling at this very moment. I prayed again that the Holy Spirit would bring her peace and comfort, because there is a family right here that is going to love him/her like crazy. We're here, we're preparing, we'll be ready.

Steve and I had an interesting thought the other night: what if first time parents went through the preparation and education that adoptive parents experienced? I don't know if that could ever be a possibility, but the truth is that if all parents prepared the way adoptive parents did, they would definitely have a glimpse of what true parenthood is about. It's about unconditional love, communication, commitment, sacrifice, and the unknown.

Thinking back to how we prepared for Alex, I see the similarities and differences that exist between the two experiences. I just feel so honored and blessed to have this unique experience. I love this child already; this I know for sure. This is reality.

Home Study

Today our social worker visited our house to conduct our home study. It just feels so much more real. It was awesome to talk about what kind of an adult we hope to raise in our kiddos as well as our relationship as a family.

Currently, we're knee deep in dossier/home study paperwork. I'm not gonna lie, it's intimidating. I fear that I'm not going to do something right; everything has to be done so precisely. I'm not much of a detail person. But, I'm forging ahead!

Along with this, I'm finishing up two concentrated courses for my Principal License Program. I have to admit, I can't wait to finish these two classes. I want to give my full attention to getting our paperwork in order!!!! My goal is to get it all done before school starts. I have no idea if I'm being a little too courageous in that thought.

Steve and I got the guest room set up, which allowed us to clear out the baby's room. Soon, we will start filling it with items and furniture for our new baby. This is amazing, exciting, and beautiful all at that the same time. I can't wait to hold my baby. Keep us in your prayers.