Momma

Such a simple word... 'Momma'.

Today I went to visit with Tanya at the Orphanage.  It took me about 30 minutes just to find her!  I looked everywhere, nobody seemed to know where she was hiding.  Finally, I ran into her best friend, Sasha, who told me that she was in the kitchen helping and learning how to cook.  When I found her I noticed that she was the only student helping the kitchen staff.  Amazing.
After we found each other, we went for a walk and talked a bit.  Then we played a round of 'Uno.'  Her friend also played with us and as we were playing I thought I heard Tanya say to her friend that it was 'Momma's turn.'  I thought to myself, "did I just hear that correctly, surely not, she's not ready to call me that yet... is she?"
Then again she looked at me and said, "Momma, it's your turn!"
From then on I was Momma.

I feel my heart beginning to swell knowing that Tanya is beginning to accept the fact that I will be her Momma.  However there is a part of me that is very nervous.  We have been let down so many times throughout this adoption that it is hard for me to embrace the idea that there will be no more obstacles.  My mind wants to wander off into the 'what ifs,' but my heart says to have faith.

Another thing I learned about this precious girl today is how well she plays volleyball!  I was shocked!  I could totally see her playing in a college team some day as the lead 'setter!'

So as we continue to wait and wait and wait some more, our hearts are carefully opening back up to the hope of being a forever family sooner rather than later.

Thank you again for all your prayers and support!  Thanks to you we've raised over $2750.00!