Maelyn's jie jie's

As a family we are fortunate to have some wonderful people in our lives -- especially Maelyn's God Sister's Bryanna, Cassidy and Julia.

We are especially fortunate that Maelyn's jie jie (big sister), Julia, lives within ten minutes of our home. Having AM and Julia live close by means that we are able to get together easily and quite often. Some of my favourite moments since we have been home has been watching Julia and Maelyn together -- as sisters should be!

When I first looked at this picture, I completely welled up. I find it hard to put into words what it means to me to see the two of them together. I have loved Maelyn's God Sister's for years -- they are very dear to me and I love being a part of their lives. It is my love for them that planted the seed of adoption firmly in my heart. I feel joy at the love they show for Maelyn and couldn't be happier that my girls are an important part of our family. 

Julia and her mei mei (little sister)

I love being able to visit with Anne Marie as well and am grateful for her friendship, parenting advice and the love that she has for our daughter. I don't know what I would have done over the past six weeks without her advice!

AM and Julia have been passing on toys that Julia no longer uses, but are perfect for Maelyn. One big toy that was passed on was Julia's outdoor play set. The play set originally belonged to Julia's older cousin -- but has now made it's way to it's third family and to a very happy child! I can only imagine the emotions AM was experiencing as we disassembled a set that Julia used in her early childhood -- but we were grateful for the love with which it was given.

Maelyn checking out the play set...

Paul and Julia working hard...

Julia keeping Maelyn occupied in the backyard -- showing her how to be 'fashionable'...

Here is the play set fully assembled in it's new home...

Maelyn loves the play set and can't wait for Julia and AM to come over and play!