A message from Gabi's Foster Mother

To our surpise, we received an e-mail message from Gabriela's foster mother yesterday! It was in Spanish, so after translating, we were so excited about what she had to say! She said that Gabriela is very healthy and is starting to suck on her hand! She wished that Gabriela could be with her parents for her first Christmas (so do we!!!) Her eyes are becoming more clear as well. She did thank us for our offer of any help we could provide her, but left it up to us to determine how we could help -- her husband died a few months ago and she has 4 older kids of her own. Her last words were, "God Bless you and please continue to keep in touch!" We were so surprised that she had internet and has a very strong interest in keeping us updated. I am very excited to meet this wonderful woman when we go down to visit in a few weeks! What courage it takes for her to care for and bond with Gabriela, knowing that she will have to give her to us in a few months. I can't even imagine! Gabi is very blessed to be receiving such wonderful care.

Happy Holidays!

2 Month Update!

Gabriela continues to grow! She now weighs 11 pounds, 14 oz. and is 22 inches long. The doctor reports her as being very healthy and she is receiving her vaccinations and vitamins. The little pink dress she is in in these pictures is one that we actually sent to her. Along with the dress, we sent a blanket, a small stuffed toy (that we had slept with to pick up our scent), a picture album of her family, a large picture of us, a disposable camera and a special note of gratitude to her foster mother.

Gabriela is being held by her foster mother, Maria Dolores, during the doctor's visit.

Getting sleepy!

Gabriela -- 1 month update

At Gabriela's 1 month doctor's visit, she weighed 9 pounds and was 21 inches long. She has grown quite a bit since she was born -- we are so thankful her foster mother is taking such good care of her.

This is our first picture of Gabriela with her eyes open. We fall more in love with her every day!

We love the little dress she is in and thankful that she is so healthy.

Gabriela Marie

Gabriela's birthmother named her Maria Gabriela. We knew that Gabriela was meant to join our family the moment we heard her name. Just the night before, Joe and I had talked about possible names, as we were expecting to receive a referral soon. As soon as Joe said, "What about Gabriela and your middle name (Marie)?" I knew it was perfect. The next day we received Gabriela's pictures and birth information. Her birth name was too big of a coincidence -- it was meant to be!

These are the pictures of Gabriela that were taken 1 day after she was born. It was love at first sight!

Forever Family of Gabriela Marie!

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