Many of you know the story of our hosting 2 orphan "siblings" from Ukraine for 5 weeks last Christmas. The story is a long one, but basically it is this: We thought we were to adopt these 2 children. God, however, had other plans. He had 2 special families chosen before the world was created to be the forever families for Kiril and Maria.
Knowing we wouldn't be hosting or adopting the children this past summer, but desiring they find host and adoptive families, I expressed my willingness to the hosting organization to speak to any prospective host/adoptive families. Kelly first called me in late February, if my memory is correct. We have spoken on the phone at least once a week, and sometimes many more times than that, ever since. Except for a 1 week mission trip her family took in March and the past 3 weeks she has spent in Ukraine, we have spoken each week. I miss our chats and can't wait to hear her voice again when she has adjusted back into life in America for the 7-10 day break in between her trips to Ukraine for Maria.
What can I tell you about Maria? She is small for her age, stubborn, has a great laugh, and is a picky eater. She likes hugs, but does not like to be told to do something she has no desire to do. She likes to vacuum, play Uno and Po-Ken-O and listen to Madisa. When she eats an apple, all that is left is the stem. And when she says my name, it sounds like "See-you-san" and I love that!
We were able to Skype with Maria (and Kiril!) while she was staying with Kelly's family this summer. Hopefully, when she is adjusted to her new life in America, we can do that again. What I have decided is that if all we see of her life is her face in a Christmas picture each year, that will be wonderful! If we get to talk with her or even see her through the years, we will be thrilled! I am happy to already have a relationship with Kelly, her mom (it's so nice to say that word!), and so I know there will be some contact at some point.
We don't want to rush our contact with Maria, as she needs time to adjust to her family and her home. But we will be praying for her often! How nice it has been to have met her, gotten to know her and now to know that she has a forever family! And who knows, maybe we will be able to have her (and even Kiril!) at our house for a "cousins camp" sometime in the future!
(For those wondering about Kiril, in just a few short months, I will be able to post that I am an "Aunt" again as his family will be going to Ukraine to start his adoption process.....I am looking forward to a similar blog post to this one as I share our thoughts on this special young man!)
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