Dear Lydia,

Today is a special day. I know you don’t remember it, but you know it well; you’ve watched the video over and over again, so many times you may think you remember it. 

I remember it very clearly, sweet girl. My heart was beating out of my chest as we crossed that street and entered a cold office building with great expectations of meeting you. I was nervous. I was scared. But, I wanted you so much. I was overwhelmed that day–you took my breath away when you entered the room in your ayi’s arms. And, I am not sure when I actually caught my breath again. 

Two years later, as I consider this day, I find myself thinking more about your experience of it than my own. Your life changed that day, Lydia Mei. You were the child God had called us to adopt into our family, the one we had planned for and dreamed about for years. But, I recognize that there is more to today.

You are young now, only 3 years old. Your days are filled with jumping, dancing, climbing, falling down, and laughing, playing with your brothers and sister, testing boundaries, and learning about how things work and why things are the way they are. We talk about China and what makes us different and what makes us the same. But, right now, you don’t care much about it. 

As time goes on, we will keep on talking about China and showing you pictures and dreaming aloud because I want you to know that when you do care about it, I’m here. When you have questions that are hard to ask and maybe even harder to answer, I’m here. I will be honest with you as I’m able, and I’ll be quiet and simply be with you when no words seem right. 

Two years ago today, we held you for the first time and started to get to know you as our beloved daughter. But, you were already a precious treasure before we met you, before we even knew your face. You are His masterpiece, Lydia, from the very beginning.

With a full heart,

Mama