A Happy Reunion!

On our road trip to Minnesota for my sister's gorgeous wedding, we were able to drive through Missouri and visit Emma's birth family.  It was such a happy reunion!

 

Emma's birth grandparents were so gracious to have us over to their home. 

Emma with her birthmother, Linda
Emma is wearing an outfit Linda gave to her at birth.

Emma with her birth grandma, Heather



This little sweetie on the right is Heather and Glen's younger daughter, Sayla!

Sayla loves Emma!

Heather & Glen were so kind to have gifts for both Isaac and Emma!  Can you see that Isaac was just a little excited by his new ambulance?!?

Isaac has never known a stranger!  He loved playing with Sayla in her fun backyard!  Days after our visit together, Isaac talked on and on about Sayla, and referred to her as "my new friend."

After cuddling Emma and catching up, we all went to Chick-Fil-A for dinner.

Glen is the store manager of the Chick-Fil-A (yum!)--so many of the employees were excited to meet Emma!  Doesn't he look like a proud grandpa?  :)

To say that we are grateful for this precious family is an understatement...they prayed for Emma before she was born and love her dearly.

This is one loved baby girl!

Years ago, when the idea of adopting was just beginning to settle in my heart, one of my biggest concerns was how I'd feel about my child's birth family.  I wondered if I would feel like a "fake mom" when I was around them.  

Now, with Isaac and Emma as my children, I can honestly say that God has settled these questions in my heart.  I don't ever feel like a "second-place" or "substitute" mom.  Both of our children's birth families affirm David and me in our role as parents to Isaac and Emma.  Ultimately, my calling as Isaac and Emma's mother comes from God Himself, and it is a calling that I am thankful for and humbled by. 

We already talk with Isaac about his adoption; and, as he and Emma both grow, we will be able to share more of their stories with them.  We believe it will be a gift for both of our children to know that they were and are loved by two special families.