A little heads up...

In hopefully a couple of weeks, we will be re-entering the United States with our son.  We CANNOT wait to introduce him in person, through skype, or even just in pictures to the many, many friends and family who have cheered us on, financially given, or prayed our son home. 

Since Tyson has spent the first five months of his life in the hands of a very loving foster mom, we realize that he will be grieving the loss of his first family.  We will have some time to bond with him while in the DRC, but we will be very intentional once home to continue that bonding period.  

So what does that mean? 

Well, we aren't exactly sure.  But what we DO know is that it is extremely important that Tyson knows WHO are his mom and dad.  We want him to learn to rely solely on us for his needs, so Brian and I will be the only ones feeding, bathing, changing, and holding him.  So when you hold out your hands to hold him, don't be surprised when I squeeze him tighter and instead give you a good ol' high five. 

I know that seems a little weird, but this little one is going to have a LOT of change happen in his life in a short amount of time, including caregivers, country, and pretty much everything else, so our number one concern will be his adjustment and attachment to our family. 

I'm going to ask you to head over here to read this post, because it gives some great insight to life before and after adoptive families bring their children home.  Though each experience is different, Jen Hatmaker, the author, paints a pretty accurate description how to help, what to say, and how to pray.  

Because Tyson is still an infant, our adjustment may be quicker than those who have brought home older children.  Or it may not.  We aren't sure and we're going to take it day by day until we know he's confident that he's in his forever home. 

For the many that have asked if we need anything now....we really don't, unless you want to come give our dogs a bath because they stinking smell like feces.  (Don't worry, Mom Word, they'll be smelling pretty by the time you get here.) 

To our amazing community of friends and family, we are so grateful for you.  You have encouraged, given, and prayed for this day for the last two years.  We love you and would not be at this point without you.