A Letter to Maya

Dear Maya,

In less than a month, we will be able to look into your eyes and draw you close to our hearts. We will ask you to take our hands and to leave your life, your world behind you. How strange and confusing this will all feel to you. Please don't be afraid. I hope you can look beyond a face so different from any you have known, beyond the tears that will certainly be there, and see the love that I have for you. Then, take my hand.

I am bringing with me a tall, dark ( and handsome) man who may also seem frightening to you. Look closely and you will see the kindness within his soul. He is your father. He will introduce you to a world that you have never imagined. A world of hockey and soccer and chocolate chip cookies. He will journey with you to a place called Narnia, and stroke your hair as sleep overtakes you each night. He will be your greatest advocate, he will be your strength. Take his hand.

When you arrive at your new home you will meet two very big, very furry creatures unlike any you have met before. Do not be frightened. They are our faithful companions Sam and Berkeley. They will love you forever if you share your meals with them and shower them with kisses. Take their paws.

You will meet so many new people in the coming weeks. Oma, Gramma and Papa are waiting anxiously to hold you in their arms. Your Auntie Susan counts the days until she can finally kiss your cheeks. Auntie Beth is waiting to introduce you to the land of moguls and wake-boards. Robert, Genny, Kendra, Genessa and Jenael are so very happy to have a new cousin and look forward to seeing you this summer. Uncle Don and Uncle Glenn will introduce you to vacations which are filled with giggles and ice-cream. You will discover waffles, and become an honorary PoPoGee. Your new family awaits you. Take their hands.

You will meet many of our dear friends and family who are awaiting your arrival. David, and Hinson, Susan, Lynn, Richard, Taia and Alan, Tim, Ben, Mario, John Ma, Brian and Martha, Ruth and Alf, Rob and Cheryl, Karen, Deb, Juanita, Andrea, Mag, and many others. You have already touched so many hearts. We are very blessed to have these people in our lives. Take their hands.

Only thirty days until we begin our adventure together. We will be beside you every step of the way. Take our hands.

Love,

Mom & Dad