Six Years Ago Today, I Became a Mother

I remember the excitement and nervous butterflies in my stomach like it was yesterday.

The day had finally come when we could not only visit our daughter, but when she could actually leave with us. Not for just a brief walk outside the orphanage like on our last trip,

but this time... forever.

I remember nervously getting Leila dressed.

It was the first time I had done this with my own child.

I remember that enormous smile I couldn't wipe off my face.

I remember adoring everything about her - including the way, at 32-months, she could guard her food and work a very large spoon like nobody's business.

I remember holding her hand or hugging her tightly and feeling like my heart could burst at any moment.

I remember walking for miles on the Moscow streets in cold weather, pushing her in her stroller, popping wheelies and hearing her giggles.

I remember the day Leila first became our daughter.

Today, we celebrate six-years with Leila and six years as parents.

THEN & NOW -

Back in December, the girls were holding one of their typical fashion shows, only Leila grabbed two unexpected items from her closet. The first photo shows Leila wearing the blue sweater that she first wore the day she left the orphanage. This was a gift given by one of my mom's dear friends and I will never, ever part with it.

Her second outfit change was the snowsuit that she wore all those many miles on the streets of Moscow. I couldn't even believe she could still shimmy herself into this!

And since our weekend consisted of watching her play four games in her first Spring tournament, I had to post a few pics of our soccer girl.

Ya lyublyu tebya, Leila.

We love you so very much!!

We look forward to your special dinner tonight!