I put it off for as long as possible, but I finally got it in the mail today. Every year within 30 days of her birthday, we are required to send at least 15 pictures of Basia and a letter to the adoption agency to keep in her file in case her birth mom or anyone from her birth family asks to see them.
I always dread the letter. I just can't figure out how to nail down all Basia is and does onto a piece of paper. She is such a dynamic person and part of our lives, and I never know the right words to say to capture that in a letter. If you don't know Basia, there is no yearly letter that will be able to explain who she really is.
I was getting my driver's license renewed today, and the entire staff at the MVD Express was in love with her before we left. She did nothing. She just oozes charm and cuteness and is hard to resist. Seriously, they told her to come back anytime and were all saying "awww" as we left. I asked her if it felt strange (because I assure you I have never had that kind of experience!) to have so many people think you are cute all the time. She said that it is strange. She just can't help it. I keep waiting for her to outgrow it, but six years hasn't been long enough.
How do I describe on paper what it was like at the Labor Day campout when the entire group "adopted" Basia. She went from family to family, from camper to camper, and made so many friends by the time we left. There were people asking for her help with their cooking and setting things up. I literally missed her because she spent so little time with us.
How do I describe the way little kids at church yell her name when they see her coming? How do I describe how the little girl I watch could care less about me but begs to come because she gets to play with Basia? How can I share how faces brighten at church when she shares a hug, and how hearts are warmed when she insists on carrying the trash after the services?
I just feel so blessed to have her a part of our lives. How did we get to be the lucky ones?
How on earth can I write down all that is Basia in a little letter that gets tucked away in a file somewhere?
2 comments:
It's so good to hear how hard that is! :) We will be required to do that as well, and it will be mailed to Ethiopia for the government to see that we are taking good care of her. I would write exactly what you posted--that will allow them to see how loved and how treasured she is by everyone. I don't think you could have said it any better!! I can't wait to meet her.
It is hard to put in words but I think you did a great job. What a joy she is in our lives. I told her "See you later, Basia" and she said wait Grandmother, when will I see you then. She wanted a definite time that we will meet again. What a gem in my life.
Post a Comment