Yesterday was a very special day. We got to see Brae's birthmom for the first time since his birth nearly 2 years ago. Up until this time, she has not been ready to see him. Brae also got to see his biological grandmother and grandfather. But perhaps the most special treat was getting to meet his half sister for the first time, who is just 3 years older than him.
We met at a park in our BM's hometown. Tygh and Brae and I were down playing with some ducks when we saw her come down. I must say, I was relieved. I was a little afraid she may not show up.
We embraced and I told her how good it was to see her. She admitted to having a little bit of a panic attack in the car, and had changed her mind a few times as to whether or not she would come. I'm so grateful she did.
Brae was uncharacteristically shy at first, that is until his half-sister just bounded up to him and they started playing "tag." It was adorable. They are the spitting image of one another (as you can tell). And same personality, same giggle, even same facial expressions. It was priceless.
We made small talk, but mostly just watched the newly united siblings play. It was a surreal moment.
It was a brief visit -- only 45 minutes -- unlike the hours long visits with Brae's birthfather's side of the family. But I think it was exactly what our BM needed. She knew she had selected the meeting location -- a park -- that has absolutely no kid-friendly objects. No swings. No playground. Nothing. A bare, but beautiful, adult park. So the second the conversation waned just a little, I could tell she was ready to go.
As we walked back to our car, I told her I hoped we could do this every year. She looked at me and smiled, with tears in her eyes. I told her I wanted Brae to know who she was, and to know who his half-sister was.
She nodded in agreement. She wanted that too.
We embraced again. This time, it was long, and it was hard. She wouldn't let go. She hugged me with everything in her and we both said, "I love you."
I told her to not be a stranger.
And as we departed, Brae's half-sister waved and said, "Bye, brother."
I am blessed.
Your post made me cry...some happy tears, some sad. I have a 4 year old adopted daughter and soon we may be seeing her BM for the first time since she was 18 months. It will be to pick up her bio sibling when he's born (due Dec. 4th), who we are planning to adopt. BM isn't stable or reliable, so we are just waiting to see how it plays out. I wish she was more stable so I could be more excited for the reunion. Sounds like you are very strong and clearly putting your precious son top priority. It looks like you're all very lucky. Best of luck with your pregnancy!
ReplyDeleteI am crying! How precious!!!
ReplyDeleteWow - I'm so glad it went well. And the pics of Brae and his half sister are PRECIOUS. PRICELESS. Of course, I'm in tears.
ReplyDeleteBittersweet for sure. I can't imagine the pain she must feel even after so much time has passed, yet the joy to see him in such a loving and healthy home with you and DH. I know you were nothing but sincerity and genuine Christ-like love in all that you said and didn't say! The 2 definitely look related! Is Brae's BM a believer? How are you feeling PG-wise this week?
ReplyDeleteOh my, I am totally crying...how special is that??? Wow. That sounds like an awesome visit, and sooooo neat for Brae to get to meet his half sister and BM :) You guys have had such a great dynamic since day one- that's so amazing.
ReplyDeleteCRYING. What an amazing story, the whole thing. Just incredible.
ReplyDeleteo my goodness they look SO much alike!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Britney for the reply. Hang on to my e-mail, b/c you are free to touch base anytime you want to or need to write someone while you are sipping your ginger ale! : )
ReplyDeleteWow, that's priceless! Those kids will cherish those pictures when they get older I bet. So neat!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful story God has written! Praise Him!
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