I've been having the hardest time finding the right words to express how incredible the past few days have been. Austin and I were so nervous to let people know we're beginning the adoption process. It's hard to put yourself out there! I don't know why it matters. But, it makes me feel so vulnerable. Our hearts are just so wide open - ready for whatever comes our way.
I can't tell you how much your kind words mean to us. Our friends and family have been so supportive in sharing our story (like this, right here... our blog) and even donating to our adoption fund!! I just can't believe how blessed we are. Some days, when I lie down to go to bed, I feel like my heart is as full as it can possibly get. Then, we're flooded with love and support! Somehow, my heart hasn't burst!
My mom, mother-in-law, sisters, and close friends have been essential sounding boards these past few months. I have ideas and dreams and goals that I need to get out of my mind and into motion. I could never live a day without knowing these wonderful people will always be there for me.
Austin's heart beats in time with mine. I love when we can spend calm, quiet, quality time together, spill our guts, and share our dreams. Sometimes, I feel like our stars are aligning as we make future plans. We realize that the dreams we came up with years ago are actually becoming a reality. Austin is the best partner I could ever find. I love that man. I love that he loves me. It's so fun being in love with Austin... I want to love him more! Does that make sense?
During Thanksgiving dinner this year, my sister, Paige, talked about how she wants to take more action in showing her gratitude for what she has. She mentioned how, so often, people take for granted what they love most. I've been thinking so much about that. She talked about how grateful she is for her family and for the time she has to spend with them. To show her gratitude, she said she'll pay more attention to how she spends her time and make an effort to be less selfish. (Personally, I've never seen her as a selfish person AT ALL... but that's just my opinion.)
I am SO thankful for all of you. I'm thankful for those we know well, those we've just met, and those we'll soon meet. I'm grateful for our blog readers and anyone who shares our blog! I'm so thankful for the adoption process. I've seen it bless so many lives - birth mothers and adoptive families. I really look forward to the day we can welcome more family members.
I know a blog post is somewhat menial. But, I want to DO something to show my gratitude for all the love and support we've received this week. This is for everyone who has been (and continually is) there for us. This post is for you - if you're here, reading it. This is a public thank-you. I am amazed at the kindness of others. We have such an incredible community of loving people. I couldn't be luckier.
So, to sum this all up... Thank you!
