So, I am just amazed at the progress each of our boys has made with this life changing transition. I am getting to the point where I have a hard time remembering what life was like before this experience. I feel so proud of them every day, and I am touched by how much the boys have bonded and love being together. They stick up for each other, share and genuinely care about the other's feelings.
We have been back exactly 4 months today, and Ian and Andre can completely speak English. There is no problem communicating with them at all. The ESL at school has been a great help.
They beam big smiles when we see them in the morning, after school and even if I have just ran to the store and come home. They are always waiting with love and hugs, and I truly know that they are so grateful to have a Mommy and Daddy and family that loves and protects them.
As many of you know, we tend to be rather private people, and haven't shared a detailed account of our journey, but I want everyone to know that I would do it again in a heartbeat. We love our children and have no regrets. Our advice to other families would be to follow your true heart, don't ignore something that doesn't feel right, and be as informed as possible about Ukraine before going.
To all the families and people who helped us get through this nine month process, I want to say thank you so much for your support. It was key to surviving the more difficult moments.
To the families who are embarking on this journey and hosting this year: I think you are amazing and courageous! May you have a beautiful experience, and know that no matter what happens, you have already changed a child's life forever by opening your hearts.
What awesome pictures and what awesome boys. We think you are all amazing and we appreciate your positive influence on our lives.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your kind words. I am sitting here alone in my cold dark apartment, so homesick and yet so grateful for this experience. Even going through it all I would still do it again also. Oksana speaks so highly of you, she has been a huge help to us. Thanks again...
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing. I am so happy for you and share your story about which children belong to which family.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post and beautiful children. They look like brothers!
ReplyDeleteYou do know I am going to steal these for the blog, right? :D Your boys are handsome and sounds like they have the inside to match the outside. Thanks for keeping us updated with how things are. There are a lot of people hosting that are curious as the what happens 'after the fact'.
ReplyDeleteYou are an amazing family! Easy to tell the boys are greatly loved!
ReplyDeleteHi, I am just starting to consider Ukraine adoption of school-age kids and found your blog listed on a website. I notice that your son was 7 when his brothers came home--were they both older than him? How has adopting out of birth order worked out for your family?
ReplyDeleteYour boys are so handsome. They are making you a proud mom! Congrats again.
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