As the old year turns new...

A few days ago I began to write a post--but I did not have words to finish it.

I learned on Wednesday that Valentin will not be coming home yet.

The dad of his new family-to-be went to Valentin's country to meet him, intending to complete the adoption. He met Valentin and visited with him more than once. During those visits he found that Valentin's needs are more severe than had been realized. The family realized that, though they loved Valentin, they would not be able to give him the care he needs. And so they made the hard, hard decision not to proceed with the adoption.

I've linked to some of their blog posts so you can read their story in their words.

I have thought so much about Valentin these last few days. I thought of him this afternoon, asleep in his crib as the new year arrived in his country. I thought of him as we enjoyed New Year's eve with my parents and sisters, nieces and nephews.

I am remembering Valentin.



Edited to add: I began to write on Wednesday the 28th, but finished on Saturday the 31st. Just now I saw it was posted with a date of the 28th, so I have changed the date to reflect the time I actually finished and posted. - Desert Lily, 2 January 2012

The most amazing gift...

Sweet Valentin doesn't know it, he has no idea, but he is about to receive the most incredible Christmas present. He will meet his new dad-to-be on Monday.

To us it's a day late, but in Eastern Europe it's nearly two weeks early! They celebrate Christmas on January 6.

In any case, in just a few days this little boy will discover that he has a family waiting to welcome him.

I am sure that angels are crowding round eager to see that first meeting. How many angels can fit into one room where a little boy will meet his new dad?

My hope is that Sawyer, too, one day soon, will see his new parents for the first time.