Goodbye and Gotcha

Today was an emotional day for this mama bird . . .

At 8:05 this morning my Brady boy pulled away from the curb in his loaded down Volvo station wagon, headed for Spokane--with his dad as his driving partner. Big brother Bryce has been busy getting ready for Brady's arrival. I'm so thankful that Brady has chosen to spread his wings under Bryce's guidance. I'm thankful too, for the time my boys will get to spend together again, after a three year separation.

To say my mamas heart aches is an understatement. Last night was an emotional one, as Brady and I spent time together talking (and crying) about our joys and fears-- both past and present . . . and the great courage it takes to "fly". He's ready to give it a try, and he knows that if the going gets tough, the nest is still an option.

B, I am so proud of you,

and I know you are going to do great!

Today was also Teddi's second Gotcha anniversary, talk about a mix of emotions. So many precious memories . . . mixed in with a sad, yet proud, goodbye. Memories of Brady's growing up years, memories of the years of praying and waiting for our little bird-- along with sweet, sweet memories of our first meeting in China.

Look at our little Xiao Xiao smile . . . this was the very first time I held her-- such a happy little bird!

Oh what a day!

Last day in China, ready to fly away home.

A smile from our first Gotcha anniversary.

Oh what a year!

Just look at her now, two years later . . .

learning to fly, and still our happy bird!

I hope to do another Gotcha post for Teddi, and I have Brady's graduation post yet to share, but I didn't want to let the day go by without recognizing my two brave birds . . .

one little bird with many flying lessons yet to come, and one ready to soar.

Brady and Teddi, I love you both, and am so grateful to be your mom.

Blessings from my nest ~

Tina