The Gift of Sam

Yesterday Annika and I went to visit my very dear friend Jenna. While I enjoy every visit with Jenna, yesterday's visit was a special one for us, because we got to meet Jenna & Eric's beautiful daughter, Samantha. Samantha is an energetic, bubbly, 10-year old beauty, with shiny long brown hair and sparkling brown eyes. She joined Jenna & Eric's home - her "forever family" - just 10 days ago.

As we sat around the table drinking tea and having an afternoon snack of cheese and crackers, I thought about how blessed Sam is! I know she is absolutely thrilled to bits with her Mommy and Daddy, and with her Grandpa and all of her lovely Grandmas - it's so exciting for her to be such an important part (daughter/grand-daughter) of such a loving family. As Sam was showing me the beautiful necklaces she received, some for her birthday and some as "just-because" gifts, I felt so happy for this little girl who now has a home giving her the nurturing love, support, and security she needs. The first years of her life were filled with hurt, sadness, and disappointment (to say the least); it's a blessing to know that the rest of her life will be filled with comforts she was denied in the early years.

After watching Sam, I took a look at my friend. Jenna is so happy! She sparkles and glows with a happiness and excitement that remind me of Christmas day after opening the most wonderful present under the tree! Jenna and Eric have been given such a precious gift...the gift of Sam. The long road called the adoption process brought many twists and turns for Eric and Jenna (if you'd like to read more about their adoption process, go to Jenna's blog here). I'm just so happy to see them as parents - they've waited for this for so long.

Our visit was short, but sweet. We got to play a great game of Chutes & Ladders and I got to learn a bit more about Samantha. I also enjoyed letting Sam know about some of the silly stunts her mother and I were involved in over the years...I can't wait to share more! Jenna and I have known each other for around 25 years, and it's such a joy that we've both become mothers! I loved meeting Sam and even Annika was quite taken with her - she especially loved Sam's long hair and kept reaching out to touch her face.

Here's Annika with Aunty Jenna

Welcome Home, Samantha Mary Grace Hoff!

Penny