Decorating the Christmas tree is always a special time for our family as we remember and enjoy all of the ornaments we have collected over the years, including an individual picture of Avery and Eli every year and many, many sweet handmade ornaments made by them. This year, I had to look away for a few moments while I unexpectedly had a few tears in my eyes. I really felt the absence of our little one tonight and how I so much wanted them to be with us enjoying this time. As a small gesture to acknowledge them, we said a prayer for them and hung a special ornament on the tree. I hope next year a little hand can hang that very same ornament on the tree him or herself. A note about this ornament. Our church has an annual Advent Christmas night and they sell things made internationally. This ornament was made in Colombia using orange peels. Very sweet and beautifully made. Last year, we purchased a multicultural nativity made in Peru. Many prayers will be needed during this special season. Hanging stockings, lights and so many other things are reminders of the void in our lives and how we yearn to bring our child home.
No new news on the adoption timeline. We hope early 2013 brings news for us and positive movements for Colombian adoptions as a whole.
On a more lighthearted note, we finished the annual Christmas card photo session. Definitely something Michael does not look forward to, as I (so he says) can get a little stressed trying to get that perfect family picture, dog included! So, what's wrong with a few bribes? Anyway, this year lived up to the hype and Eli entertained us the entire time with funny faces....Here's one to enjoy!
MELISSA
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