Where Has The Time Gone?!

Well, our paperwork is coming in and we'll be leaving within the week. Truthfully, we do not feel ready to come home.  We've fallen in love with the country, people and places we've seen.  We've also been enjoying (SO very much) having all this quality family time together.  Once we get home, things will be different.  Most of all, Griffin and I are really going to miss having Ian around every day, all day.  This has been such a treasured time for us!  

I have a hard time holding back tears when I think of getting on that plane and leaving this beautiful country.  Don't get me wrong...it will be wonderful to see family and friends, but if there was a way to see everyone and still enjoy more time here, I would take it!

I still remember crying as I sat in the Johannesburg airport just over 10 years ago.  I had been living here for 6 months, working in a baby home, and knew I would miss it terribly.  I always hoped I'd be back.  Now today, my feelings are similar to that time a decade ago...having such a difficult time leaving and feeling hopeful that one day we will be back. Our hearts have been permanently stirred towards adoption and Africa. 

The past couple of weeks have gone by in a blur!  We haven't been doing any major trips, but have spent time at the beach, seeing the World Cup stadium, going to markets, visiting with friends, hiking, and just enjoying time with each other.  It's been wonderful and refreshing.  

Griffin is doing well, but we know that another change is in store when we fly half way across the world to a place that will be entirely new for him.  New smells, sounds, climate, people, time zone and food.  That's a lot for a little guy!  We pray that he will continue to feel secure, safe and loved as we transition home.   

Thank you for your ongoing support, encouragement and prayers.  We know this exciting time of parenthood has just begun!

And...as much as we don't want to leave, we are definitely excited to introduce our sweet boy to everyone back home!