12 months
On this day, in the year 2011, my life as a mommy changed. I met my youngest daughter. I did not give birth to her but my heart grew and then the moment she was placed in my arms a flood of emotions came over me. This precious little life, created by God, entrusted to me and Brian. A life needing love, protection, guidance, and acceptance. Then what is so different? She waited almost 4 long, agonizing, solitary years. When sickness overtook her she suffered alone. At night she was not tucked in. Kisses and sweet songs were never sung.
God knew.
He knew.
He knew Carrington needed a mommy and that was to be me!
Carrington came home looking like a scared and emaciated child. We did not know how she held on for so long other than to say God had a purpose for her. She had not eaten for so long that she could not keep any amount of nutrition in her so her body went into starvation mode. Comfort to her was not something she could handle. Touch was actually painful for her. Eye contact was so rare. Smiles, when they rarely came, were through severely rotted teeth. No one took the time or interest to make sure she received proper nutrition and love.
Then you take a look at today. One year later from the day we met her. 10 months later from the day she landed on U.S. soil only to be taken to a hospital so she could receive all the medical attention her little body needed. Now Carrington is a vivacious, entertaining, smiling, laughing, loving child with more than enough arms to hold her and love on her. She not only has gained weight, sitting in at a healthy 26lbs. 8.5oz but she is learning to eat while sitting at the table with her family. I did not do this. God did this. He knew what she needed and provided for her just as He promised.
My sweet angel has done more for me than I have ever or could ever do for her! Through Carrington I have seen and felt more connected to God. He was always and will always be here for me but it wasn't until Carrington that I acknowledged that. Carrington has inspired me to help so many little children who wait and wait for their mommy and daddy to come rescue them and take them home. She has grown my heart ten fold, or as my son would say 6499. I have been given an opportunity to mother this amazing child of God. Thank you Jesus for trusting me, believing in me to raise such a beautiful and sweet little girl!
Mommy loves you Carrington Ann Burman!!
15 comments:
God always knows. She looks fantastic!
Brooke
www.TheAnnessaFamily.com
crazy cute....crazy wonderful!!! I love this all!
Beautiful girl! Such a long way she has come in such a short time. A true testament to the importance of love!
Love sweet Carrington. Thank you for continuing to share her story with us. For the King and His glory...
aww, wow quite the change!
Love!! What a year, huh?
What joy these pictures bring to my heart! :) She is beautiful...what a great job you guys have done!
Rochelle Wilson
Elk Grove, CA
It is truly amazing. I'm so happy to see her thriving! She is beautiful!!!
How precious. She is adorable. How wonderful that your family and little Carrington where brought together by God. Isn't He amazing.
So awesome to follow her journey. She is such an amazing gift.
Can I admit to something not many will say? I doubted God on this one. I thought that poor sweet angel was maybe too sick. Maybe God was going to take her home. I'm so so glad that home in this case was here on earth. What a beautiful little girl! What a beautiful picture of God's redemption! He is capable! Thank you for sharing the journey with us!
I love her! And you guys!!!! She is just the sweetest. Paul even adores her! I am so glad we get to see you guys in person. God is so good! Y'all Rock!
Be blessed
Ashlee
She is so precious. It is wonderful to see her growing so much.
Hi Shelley,
Please do not make this visible. We are leaving soon to meet our daughter. I have been working on a video that I want to show at church before we go (or maybe before our 2nd trip, since the first trip is so soon) showing the plight of these precious children. I am hoping that it would be all right for me to use Carrington's photo in it. The one you took when you first discovered how badly she was malnourised. Please e-mail me at kara0029@aol.com Thanks, Karen
Sweet princess Carrington, you have touched sooo many lives including my own! It is wonderful to see how you have grown and blossomed and my heart just cheered to see you sitting up at the table with your family enjoying your meal--praise God!! He is all powerful and all knowing--the great Physician! Love is a powerful medicine as well and it is so obvious your family adores you! And I just KNOW that you love them with all your heart! Clearly, this is a match made in Heaven!
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