One Year Later

My life was completely changed on May 25, 2011. A man in Nanchang, China handed me a baby and suddenly my dreams of becoming a mother had come true.

I can't believe it's been a year since I met my daughter. I remember that day like it was yesterday. And yet, it feels like Mia has been with me forever. Such a strange contradiction.

You always hear adoptive families say that somehow a perfect match was made and I am no different. She is my perfect daughter. Perfectly matched to me. We are so much alike. Which is sometimes good and sometimes bad. 

This last year has been full of new experiences for the both of us as we've grown into our roles as mother and daughter. It wasn't always easy. But I can honestly say that now , a year later, we're two peas in a pod. She knows me as well as I know her.

I'm a much more comfortable, relaxed and confident mom than I was a year ago. And Mia... wow. She's amazing. Every day she changes. She's so incredibly smart. She's happy, warm and affectionate. She's stubborn and strong willed. She's the sunshine in my life. 

I loved her the moment I made the decision to adopt. I loved her when I first saw her photo. I loved her on the day she was finally placed in my arms. After a year with this wonderful, beautiful girl... that love has grown and blossomed and wound it's way into every ounce of my being. I can't imagine a life without her.

Every day together is a blessing. Even the tough ones. I can't wait to see what this next year brings.