Day 35 of the Ukraine adventure.
As We sit here in Ukraine waiting for our second court date, spending way more time and money than we expected I can't help but be amazed by the two people who have put their lives on hold and sacrifice as much as we have for the adoption of Illiah.
Heidi's Mom and Dad. I can honestly say that I hope every married man has the pleasure of having such wonderful In-Laws as I. From the moment we met at church and Jae invited me to lunch( the day after Heidi and my first date) they have been loving and supportive. I remember how excited they were and how involved they were in our engagement and wedding. They were even there for the proposal.
I often reflect back and think if London came to me saying she was going to get married to a guy she only met three weeks ago how I would react. Certainly not with the grace and support Jae and Jackie did. with in Two months I had taken from them a daughter and a grand daughter that they were able to see everyday. All this and still they were supportive, strike that! More than supportive they were and have been our biggest fans.
During every life challenge and move they have been there, every time we needed them. They have truly become second parents to me. We love spending time with them and never want to see them leave. All though they have been there for everything, none have required the time and sacrifice as this.
When we started this adoption I told my Father In Law that I would be here 2 weeks. If I only knew then what I know now. So the plan was that he would spend a fun two weeks with London and I would be home. Well 2 weeks turned into 6 weeks. So my Father In Law has spent 6 weeks away from his home and work. While taking care of a teenage girl and two dogs. He has registered her for her new school, Bought school supplies and school clothes. Cleaned and prepared the VA house for the Movers. Changed mailing addresses, Shut off utilities and supervised the Move from VA. He then drove from VA to TX to meet the movers, Organize, unpack and clean the house. Words cannot express my gratitude and love I have for Jae and Jackie. This adoption would not be possible with out them.
On the other side of the world is Jae's wife Jackie who came with us on this crazy Ukraine adventure. There aren't many 60 year old women who could handle this trip and do it with a perpetual positive attitude and love for adventure. Again I was only suppose to be here for 2 weeks so the intention of her being here was to be with Heidi. Although she will do just that come this Thursday when I start the trip home It has been such a blessing to have her here this entire time. All in All Jae and Jackie will go 2 months without seeing each other, all for the love they have for us and Illiah!
To Jae and Jackie thank you. For your support, love and sacrifice!
I know what you're saying Jeremy. They ARE SIMPLY THE VERY BEST!! They have ALWAYS been my role models and Faithful to US ALL! You never have to wonder where they stand because trust me they are standing right beside you. ALWAYS! Wherever they are you know that you can DEPEND on them as I have sooo many times. They ALWAYS keep us in their thoughts and Prayers even when we don't ask FOR A THING! They have the Gift and Light of the Lord IN THEM! They are truly PRACTICING CHRISTIANS not preaching ones. To pick up a phone and hear "what can I do to help," (with their Godson Matthew or anyone they HELP). You are so correct and I'm so glad you know how Blessed you are to have them as your 2nd Parents. They are a Godsend just like my new Great-nephew! (By the we've always thought of you as a Godsend too!!) Give those beautiful women a kiss from me and all our love to ALL of you!
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