Six Months

Six months ago today, we met her. She was already a part of us, but on this day six months ago, we got to touch her sweet skin and embrace her in our arms. We were all in awe. And we were oh so excited to see her. She was so very scared.

This picture pretty much says it all. Her left hand is scratching her head - she did this a lot those first few day. Stress.

And then, ever so slowly, she began to show her sweet self.....

And she began to let down her guard.....

And this happened! A smile. Life. No more stress filled eyes. No more scratching. Just love. And hugs. And kisses. And laughter. This little girl who laid stiff across my lap on Gotcha Day, now goes limp in my arms when she is held - she is a cuddly little one. She gives random hugs and kisses to everyone, even Finley. She is a parrot, trying to copy every thing that MK says. She is a girl of many styles - she feels the more items she can get on her little body, the better off she is; either that or she is trying to make a fashion statement. She loves, loves, loves chocolate. And peanut butter. Especially when served together:) She loves a good, overstuffed purse to carry on her shoulder. And she loves shoes....her shoes, the boys shoes, MK's shoes, my shoes, anyone's shoes. Our one obstacle is leaving her. When left at home with a sitter, she is fine. No tears. Even goes to bed without a fuss. However, take her to church and she will scream, scream, scream, the.entire.time.we.are.not.with.her. We have tried it all - we have gone with her for several weeks, MK has gone with her, we have taken a blankie with her, her favorite doll has visited the class - and she still cries. I know I have mentioned this in probably every post lately, but it is truly an obstacle that wrings on my heart. She did keep it honest this past Sunday. MK asked her on the drive to church if she was going to cry. Maddox politely nodded her head yes. And sure enough, she cried. At least she is honest. Beyond that, Maddox is doing great. She has grown 3 inches, gained 3 pounds, says a firm, "NO!" Six months later, and life is good.