Six years ago today, my precious Avree was left by a tree in front of a Chinese orphanage as a newborn. I often wonder why her birth mother couldn't keep her. Perhaps Chinese law, fear, or just that she didn't want her. Most infants are found in dumpsters or sewers, but her mother chose to bring her to a safe place; a place where she would be cared for & would have a chance.
She was named An Ting (Chinese word for tree) by the orphanage- my little Ting Ting. Although we may never know who her birth mother is, I am forever grateful that she chose to bring her that day. Little did we know, 13 months later, she would be ours & we would celebrate the 4.5 year wait that adoption brought. Although we spent years praying, saving & hoping, it was worth every moment. For God knew exactly what our family needed-- our Avree Brynn.
I remember laying eyes on her for the very first time… in her bright orange jumpsuit, she was the most beautiful child I had ever seen. And although she didn't know how to be held or loved, at 16 years old, I had so much love to give. In all my life, I never expected a little Chinese girl from halfway across the world to change my life forever. She has shown me what it means to love someone more than myself. She has given me more joy than I ever knew possible. She has loved me unconditionally & made me smile like never before. She is my sunshine, my love, my best buddy. Those almond-shaped brown eyes hold life, excitement, anticipation & love. I could never imagine my life without her in it. She has shown me what it means to have the faith of a child in the way she loves & talks about Jesus like He's sitting here with us.
And although my football-loving, karate-doing, horse-riding, tomboy sister & I are complete opposites, we are completely perfect together. Happy 6th birthday to my precious Avree girl. KK loves you more than you'll ever know!
