Thursday, September 10, 2009

Turning the Corner to Feel a Fresh, New Breeze in the Air


Life is happening around our house. Some good, some rotten, some fantastic and some very, very normal stuff. Some days have been more difficult than I thought I could handle. Others have been filled with beautiful smiles and sweet sharings.

I really feel like we have turned a corner this week... one for the better. There has been an easier spirit around the house, smiles appear without guarded hesitation and laughter has been deeper and richer than ever before. One of our sweet Ethiopian children has struggled with their emotions and had lots of anger, sometimes raging, and major defiance. Understandable. A child. A hurting child. Sometimes a very confused child. (I have to admit it is very difficult to remember all this in the heat of the battle, I mean moment!) We watched as this sweet one started down a road of anger and discontent on Tuesday, we saw all the signs as the situation began to unravel. And yet they were able to use words and share tears and tell me what they were feeling, moving away from the normal anger response. I stopped what I was doing and we just sat in the grass. This child talked a little, but mostly we just sat together as I rocked this sweet one in my lap. Our child was able to recover and move back into the family happenings with cheerfulness. Amazing! Yes, we have turned a corner. One of our other children was able to talk about personal feelings with more freedom shortly after all this happened. I think they, too, sensed change in the air.

Even as tangible as this feels, I am trying not to set myself up for disappointment if we encounter more tantrums. But this beautiful change feels like a glorious spring day after a long, hard, cold winter. God IS good. God IS faithful. God has provided in so many ways and we thank Him for the good work He has done, is doing and will continue to do in the lives of all our children and in ours.

...he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

We have our first post placement visit today. Needless to say, our house doesn't look quite as spotless as it did when we had our homestudy. Funny how seven people in the house changes things!

8 comments:

Robin said...

Oh Nikki...I was so glad to read this post. Yes, God is good...yes, he designed our families perfectly, even when we are in the midst of a "moment" that seems to last a lifetime!

Unknown said...

My dear sweet friend~I continue to lift you all up in prayer and believe that your warrior spirit and love with the help of God's perfect timing will be everything that your children need at the exact moment that they need it. Congrats on the progress and I'm sorry for all that is still yet to come. I love your honesty and open heart. If there is anything that you need let me know.

Hugs and Love,

Lindsey

Lakeshore Cottage Living said...

You always make me smile and bring a tear to my eye at the same time! How do you do that? I have known you a long time my friend and I don't think I could be any more proud of you than I am right now.

God loves us...and He is shining through your family right now. He will not stop. Keep your chin up and expect good things...

Love you,

Kristine

veggiemom said...

I'm sure it won't all be smooth sailing but those corners are oh so important. Glad things are getting easier. Being able to use words and share feelings is huge!

Amy said...

Nikki,
This made me cry... Love hearing about the positive changes that are happening. You have some SWEET kids... each and every one. :)

Are you guys coming to the Gladney thing Saturday?

Dukes Pokes said...

1 Peter 5:9-11 (from the Message)
Keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ - eternal and glorious plans they are! - will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.

Love you guys!
Uncle Kerry

Shelley said...

Great post and update!!!

We can't wait to see ya'll!!!

We are ready for a play day!!!

Shelley

Kristy -Mom To 9 Blessings said...

I am so happy to see a post and to see that you're hanging in there! :-) Blessings to your family. You are in my prayers and your labor is NOT in vain. You have chosen to invest in the lives of these three new kiddos.....what a sacrificial and loving choice. Oh the beauty that will rise.....
Love & Blessings,
Kristy