It's been just over a year since Wren joined our family! It's been an exceptionally busy year filled with indescribable moments of wonderful!
This kid has an incredibly deep joy. A joy that at times simply radiates. She has a gently spirit...well, most of the time! lol! Except when she gets in the mood to be naughty! She has a stubborn and tenacious streak. I know it is something she needed to have to survive...physically, mentally, and emotionally...but sometimes I wish she knew it was ok to be a little less stubborn and tenacious!
This picture was taken while we were still in China and it remains one of my favourites!
And this! Our arrival home! I totally forgot that I never did post more than one picture of the fantastic photos Chantal took. You can check out more of her photos from that day here.. http://www.chantelklassen.me/wren-is-home-china-adoption-homecoming/
These photos...emotion! Just lots of emotions! But mostly I keep thinking "taste and see that the Lord is good!"
Wren has grown in so many ways! This thing of being a part of a family is hard. Very hard! Families have expectations. Families have rules. Families have odd customs. Families get upset and angry...but they still love fiercely. And the effort it takes to figure all of that out is immense! Not to mention confusing, upsetting, frustrating, and annoying! Slowly, very slowly Wren is learning to express her thoughts, emotions, and feelings. And that is hard for those of us that love her...how do we meet her needs and address her deepest fears, when we don't even know what they are?
But these moments of joy...so worth it!!
But these moments of joy...so worth it!!
Wren is learning to read and write. She is learning how to add and subtract. I am so amazed that this girl who was considered stupid, and unable to attend school, is learning so much!!
Wren loves her siblings and is especially bonded with the youngest four. They do everything for her with very little complaining. And the big boys...it's been hard to adjust to having another bratty sister, but they too do so very much for Wren. I know it's only been a year, but I can't wait till everyone feels like we're a solid family unit again.
Wren hates her standing frame most days. Except when it's time to bake or do a craft!
This Christmas season is particularly difficult for Wren. She's incredibly insecure. I've no idea why. I do know that not knowing what to expect is a factor, so we have told her what gifts she is getting and that seemed to help. Hopefully, todays' explanation that THIS IS Christmas (as in our daily Christmas activities) will alleviate some fears.
I must say that in some ways Wren's adoption has been the "easiest". Overall, we adjusted much more quickly than normal. It feels like Wren has been a part of our family for much longer than a year. And that is certainly a God thing!
I can not imagine our life without Wren! She certainly is a perfect fit for our family! And that makes this mama very grateful and happy!!
To Him be the Glory!!
