Some Sunshine

We have always called DD#2 Little Livvie Sunshine even before we met her on Mother's Day 2004. Our first year together was very difficult as Livvie had to work through becoming part of the family and we had to do some changing ourselves. Not to compare siblings, but we were spoiled with Emma Rose as she was "the perfect baby." Rarely did she cry, she was always compliant and happy to be with us. Her transition into the family was seamless and almost immediate it seemed. I knew in my head that this was more the acception than the rule, but in my heart I was not quite prepared for the fiery personality of Olivia. I guess somewhere deep within, I had certain expectations of what I expected from her--love and affection. That is not what she had to offer when I received her in China. Instead, I got anger and rejection. For almost a year there was nonstop wailing and temper tantrums, refusal to be held, and quite honestly alot of rejection. I will never know what Livvie's life was like before I became her mom, but at some point, I believe that God gave me His heart for Olivia. Somehow, I was able to see past the anger and rejection, and see the tender, joyful soul of this little one. In a way, she was like a wounded animal--deeply hurt, but instinctively desperately fighting to avoid the very one who could help. I am reminded, even today, that love and grace are powerful. Olivia is not the same hurting girl that became my own 4 years ago. Although she still has a fiery spirit, she is filled with joy and laughter. She loves to sing and play jokes. She loves to snuggle. She loves to be loved. Olivia loves life. Her face beams like a ray of sunshine into my world every day. Her love reaches the farthest corners of my heart. My life is filled with joy because Olivia is part of it.