7 August 2008

So Many Changes

Posted by BaBa under: Retrospect .

One Year Ago Today 08-07-07

It is hard not to look back at the changes with our little guy over the year. One of the most telling is the Pooh stroller from China. He is so much taller and sturdier than when in China (a year ago). The side by side photos really tell a tale as far as his size. The Pooh stroller is destined for the consignment sale tomorrow as he can barely fit in it now.

The other change is the move from a toddler desk that was just right for him to a real “Big Boy” desk. He is ready to start Mama’s version of pre-school. So it is now appropriate for him to have a real school desk. I found this one at the local thrift store and with a lot of cleaning and a little repair to the injured leg — it is ready for the star pupil.

Changes are not just seen in size. Study the photos in the stroller and the boy does not really look the same. In the first we have a little scared boy whose world has been turned upside down. The second photos shows a happy young guy who is now comfortable in his family and enjoying his world. These photos really tell a story of the changes we have seen last year in our little guy.

However, the changes are not just in Sheridan. The changes are in us as well. We are tired. Physically tired. Now this is not a bad thing, but an honest description of life. For this small price of being tired, we are enjoying the rewards of laughter, music and watch in wonder as he sleeps, changes before our eyes, grows, learns, loves and fills our lives with joy. MaMa is so much the beneficiary of this Change. Her smile is contagious. Many have remarked at seeing her as a new person. Some of these comments have come from our adoption community as they have begun to see her true heart shine through. She is a very strong, intelligent person who has so much to share and give to others. What a wonder to see these changes strip away the clouds that have obscured her heart and soul for a number of years.

Change is not just with Sheridan. It is with me. My priorities in life are different. I am much more centered in friendships and time with my family. These days will go so quickly and I am determined not to miss out on the little special and magical moments that each one contains. I want to provide for my family and give them opportunities to see the world, but first I want to experience their world with them EVERYDAY. To that end, career is firmly in the back seat as I focus on being a good father and of course a good partner to MaMa.

I was scared at least on some level to become a father to a little one. I have not been around small children and seen the world through their eyes. My ideal was to have one that was walking, talking and of course POTTY TRAINED. I got two out of three and soon the potty training stage was past. Thanks to MaMa for shouldering the diaper duty and potty training. Sheridan is so amazing as he can carry on real conversations and you can tell that his answers are thoughtful. He really wants to figure out how things work and has a joy to help MaMa or BaBa with projects. Maturity has enabled me to spend twice as long to accomplish a task because I am having help with this project. Wisdom has been given to me by God to know that it is the little things that are important each and every day. I still am concerned about the example I am providing to him and try to be watchful and thoughtful each time I teach, play and talk with him. It is an awesome job and one that is a little intimidating at times, but it is a job that I am truly enjoying and appreciate the gift that has been placed in my hands.

Enjoy the photos showing some of his changes.

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