We're doing it in parts folks. Today was Derrick's day. Tomorrow is me, Amanda and Nathan.
It came as no shock that Derrick was up EARLY this morning. He was showered, breakfast ate, dressed, lunch made, and backpack ready a whole 1/2 hour before it was time to go. So to fill the time he paced the floor and reminisced about last year. What an adventure that was! We had to leave super early in the morning so we could drive an hour away and pick him up from his foster parent's house. To this day I don't know why they wouldn't let him spend the night at our house. Anyway, he went to school that one day and then didn't come back for 3 weeks while the state "transitioned" him. We found the pictures from that first day. Derrick's reaction to the pictures was priceless. He was so impressed with how good he looks now and was super excited that he had a "real" backpack this year. I was amazed with his EyeS...the windows to the soul. It was a true reward to see the difference. He's not the scared little kid anymore. I tried to put them side by side but you may have to click on the picture to make it bigger to see the difference.
We are really excited for Derrick this year. I can't wait to see his growth and accomplishments. It's been hard, but I think the blessings outway the struggles!!!
9 comments:
I still get choked up when I read about your experiences with Derrick, and the difference you're making in his life. We love you! We were so glad to be able to attend your sealing.
Here's to a great school year!
All four of you will be eternally blessed for your efforts in loving and raising Derrick, one of Heavenly Father's choicest spirits. It has not been easy and will never be such, because of the years of neglect he endured. You are to be complimented for your efforts. We are so proud of you and revere your efforts.
That's so wonderful!
Yes, I can see the difference. He looks confident, sharp and oh so happy. What a cutie!
Good luck Derrick. It is so awesome that he can walk to school.
Wow, that is so cool to see the addition to his countenance and how much he's grown!! Happy school days!!
Yes. You can see that little spirit growing from love. You ARE doing a great job. J
Wow- that's just one year difference?!! It looks like he's grown a couple years older and sooo happy. What a handsome kiddo! We LOVED meeting him. It's fun to see all the pix and be able to picture where they were taken.
You guys are great!
Lookin' good Derrick! What a special little man he is--given to a very special family! We love you all!
Yep...I totally see it!! He's really changed! All because of your family!!! How wonderful to see (literally) the difference you're making!!! Give yourselves a pat on the back! :) It's just a beautiful thing to witness!
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