I first met the Lewis family in November 2015 when they hired for a mini session. We bonded over adoption (I, myself am adopted) because they were trying to expand their family by adopting a little girl from China. They already had two energetic and active boys but felt the calling to adopt. I blogged about their session and their pending adoption - see it here. Theirs is an amazing story about Monica feeling God's call to adopt from China, which is where she spent a portion of her 20's as a student traveling abroad. She saw the orphans and knew someday she'd be back. Seriously - go back to my blog post from back then and read it - tear jerker for sure!
After our session, I kept up with their adoption journey through Facebook. Their desire and strength was unwavering. Adoption is a long process and you never know when that call is going to come in to say you have been matched. Their call came last fall and they traveled to China in October to bring Elin home.
As we began our session this spring, 7 months after bringing her home, I was AMAZED by Elin's demeanor and presence. She is an inspiring little girl - and she shows no signs (well at least to me, an outsider) that she's only been in the States less than a year. She understands English and Monica said she's ready to start preschool this fall, just like any other soon to be 4 year old. And most importantly, she is exactly right where she belongs. Elin was meant to be in the Lewis' arms - it's so apparent. God knew exactly what he was doing and I think they would agree that the wait was worth it.
So what is next for the Lewis family? Well....they have prayed over it and have already started the process of adopting from India. This time.....they will be bringing Bayla home. If you want to follow their story or help them in any way (adoption is not cheap!), please reach out to me and I'll get you in touch.