Two years home

Today marks 25 months since Michael and I stepped off the plane in Omaha. Earlier this month we passed a milestone that I've been waiting for since I first saw his face -- he's now been part of our family longer than he spent in his babies home. As much as I know he was loved in his babies home, the joy of knowing he's had a mama and a daddy for longer than he was without is overwhelming. I am so blessed to be his mama!

I don't know why it's been on my mind so much these last few days, but I've been playing the moments I spent at Amecet with Michael and his Ugandan "family" (the babies home staff, not biological family) over and over in my mind. Maybe because of our new family milestone. Maybe because his fifth birthday is coming soon.

I'd never watched the videos of the day I got Michael forever, until yesterday. The moments were so raw and so painful, even though I was overjoyed to have him finally, I couldn't bear to see it until now.

Like with any child, it's hard to see how far they've come when you spend every day with them, but then reminders like this arrive in your inbox! This is a side by side from the beginning of preschool last year and the beginning of preschool this year.

Michael has grown 9 inches and gained 11 pounds since the day I arrived back to Uganda to get him. He's gone from baby to big boy in record breaking time. 

He's still the most joyful person I've ever known, but his ornery side has also emerged more and more. He now thinks it's HILARIOUS to try to roll over while I'm changing his diaper. The other day he did it so fast he was gone before I could get the diaper on him. 

Michael loves school. He doesn't like sharing mama, but he adores his new baby sister and loves when she's on the floor to play with him. He's still a fan of Mickey, but Daniel Tiger has probably usurped Mickey as his favorite. He has a big sweet tooth and is a fan of anything chocolate. 

Saying yes to special needs adoption can be scary. It takes a leap of faith into the unknown. But I look at this precious boy and I ask myself "what if I'd said no?" It's not easy. Sometimes it can be downright hard, but look at what I would have missed! 

It's hard to believe my tiny little boy turns five in a couple of weeks (October 9, Uganda's independence day). I am so proud of him, of the strength he has and the joy he exudes. 

I'm so proud to be your mama, Michael. Happy two years home, my sweet boy.