Yesterday was the last time...

Dear Alec,

Yesterday was the last time that your birthday will be forgotten. Well, maybe not forgotten, but it was almost certainly not celebrated. I say not forgotten because, surely the director of your orphanage recognized that yesterday you turned four years old. That's the age when the non-typical children in your orphanage are transferred to an adult mental institution; sometimes they are even moved on their very birthday. :(

You undoubtedly do not know this, darling, but this will be a very special year for you. Your life is about to change completely, but for the better. Your daddy and I are working feverishly to come up with the last of the money we need to travel to your country and officially make you our son forever. Please know that we are coming as fast as we can!

I'm working on fixing up a room for you and two of your brothers, Ralphie and Zhenya. Next door to your room are your sisters, Rosie and Ruby. Down the hall is Wesley's room. You are really going to like him. His room is full of treasures and knick-knacks for little kids to mess with!

Mommy and daddy's room is on the other side of the house, but don't worry. I will always come when you need me! The rest of your brothers live downstairs. Down there is a great big playroom for you all. I can't wait to show you the playhouse and the slide. We are going to have such fun together! I think we will have to buy some new toys when you get home. Call it a late birthday present!

More than that, though, I cannot wait to teach you how to snuggle, and hug, and receive love. You will not suffer from a lack of affection in this house. I cannot wait to prepare and feed you nutritious food. You may have as much as you need to be satisfied. You will not feel the pain of hunger anymore.

Whenever you are comfortable and secure in our family you will start school! I know! The schools here are great and they are for everyone. I know that you are capable of learning. Has anyone called you stupid or dumb? That's a dirty lie! There is so much that you can learn and do and become.

Most of all, I cannot wait to introduce you to our Savior, Jesus. It is because of His example that we were able to find you and have the courage to come get you. Oh how He loves us!

Next year? Cake, ice cream, presents. The whole enchilada, OK? It's gonna be great!

With love,

Mommy