One year ago we had the opportunity to hold Alex for the first time. We had him in our hearts from the 5th of December.....but we actually where in Russia and got the chance to go to the Orphanage and meet him and play with him. So many emotions and so much joy....yet so much sadness knowing we had to leave him behind,while we completed the final paperwork. What should have been three months turned into 6 months and it was a very hard time for us to wait knowing he was over there wondering why he was still there.
After being home 6 months, It is amazing how far we have come. The language barrier goes away and it is so much easier to explain what is going on and why things happen. The bonding process is going well. His big issues are eye contact (which means he still struggles with trust) and indiscriminate affection towards people. (An orphanage issue, that comes from seeing every adult as an opportunity for love.)
I have a new book coming today.....Parenting the Hurt child.........I read the Adopting the hurt child.....which is an awesome resource.
Each day is a new adventure.....For the most part, It is going really well. To watch the bonding process is really remarkable. To see Alex's comfort level grow daily is rewarding.Here are some recent photos of Valentines Day. He has really learned to love holidays!!!!
