Hospicio Bids Farewell to their Angel

What an absolutely beautiful day. I continue to be amazed at what has come out of this experience--mainly the little wonder that is now, as I am more than honored to say, my daughter. Hospicio has proven to be a wonderful home for her. She has been more than loved and they have been providing for her basic needs-- yet, as the Executive Director stated in her speech, "We know in our hearts that Katrina deserves a family who will love and accept her unconditionally. Now, God has looked with favor on Katrina and surely even the angels in heaven are rejoicing because Katrina has finally acquired a mom and a dad." As I sat in the chapel, I turned to see all of Katrina's Hospicio friends smiling and nodding. I had felt so lucky to know that they were all saying, "We believe in you and trust you with our darling angel Katrina." Why did they choose us? She says, "we precisely chose you to be Katrina's parents because of your educational background, your happy childhood environment both of you grew up in, you are young, full of energy, enthusiasm and vigor for your parenting role..." Perhaps the most moving part of the ceremony was when Sr. Ma. Socorro Evidente made the point to share this: "It is noble of you to start your family with adoption even if there is still a possibility that you would have kids of your own biologically." A view that many have challenged throughout this process--so many often asked, "Why?" In my heart, she is meant to be. Period. She is an absolute blessing and joy. How lucky am I? As we plan for our late Welcome Home party--perhaps a few weeks after Easter, you can look forward to sharing more of this wonderful moment in time with us. There, you will get a chance to see and read Katrina's Lifebook. It will absolutely fill your heart! I took my time--minutes staring at each picture--reading each caption--or note. When I came to the picture of Katrina's mother, I could barely breathe. I touched her face and looked at tiny little Katrina in her birthmother's arms. How special that Hospicio pushed to get this picture for Katrina. How special to have this all for her. Her mother is beautiful too. She has her mother's eyes.
Hospicio has also given Dustin and I a copy of the slideshow. We cannot wait to share more with you. What will we all do with our time when this blog comes to conclusion? Well, I'm sure just enjoy in the moment with this little one...However, the Executive Director shared wonderful news stating that the InterCountryAdoptionBoard finally approved a reduction of wait time for adoption, allowing children w/no records to be placed immediately (rather than having to wait until actual surrender papers are signed and approved)--6 months now for the Philippines...