I don't know if she remembers, but I do........
When we began the process to bring Lucy home, my niece Lindsay was only eight years old.
I remember Lindsay's reaction when we first told her about our plans to adopt---so much anticipation and excitement to meet her new baby cousin. It truly was contagious how enthusiastic and eager she was.
As some of you who have followed this blog from the beginning know, it took over four years to bring our sweet girl home. Those were four long years for Lindsay, just a nine/ten/eleven year old at the time. I remember her asking during that time: "When will Lucy be home?" "I don't understand what is taking so long." And the one that resonates the most: "Am I going to be, like, twelve by the time I get to
finally meet her? " Little did she know when she spoke those words-- but she had predicted it exactly right. It would be what was essentially half her lifetime before the long awaited meeting would take place.
What I can tell you is that Lindsay has always felt deeply when it comes to anything regarding Lucy. It is something I have cherished about her ever since she was a little girl: her sensitive and genuine heart. Before she even knew Lucy, her excitement and love were real.
By the time Lindsay reached that long awaited age of twelve, she had lots of love stored up to shower on Lucy. And I will be the first to testify, that love has only grown and deepened over the years.
It has truly been a joy to watch.
This cousin thing is truly quite special.
Some of that love was on display last weekend when Lindsay came to visit.
We went to SkyZone, an indoor trampoline park. The girls had a blast.......
facing each other---
and counting---
and jumping---
How great is it when an 18 year old can have just as much fun with a six year old as she does with her own peer group? (or so it seems!)
Jumping into the pit!
Can I tell you how much I love and appreciate this young lady? She has been the most amazing cousin to Lucy. And if you only knew how much Lucy loves her.
High-Fiving it!
And can I tell you how proud I am of Lindsay? She has had the most amazing high school career, so much so that she has received a full ride scholarship to the school of her choice in Indiana!
What an amazing role model she is for my daughter.
We did our own "senior pictures"/photo shoot while Lindsay was here. I admit to getting a bit sentimental these days, but this sweet niece of mine is getting ready to head off to college!
The one below might be my favorite.
Entitled: "Duh?"
You can see it in Lucy's face, just how much she adores her big cousin.....
On a side note, Lindsay is my go-to person for all things teen. She gives me the latest in lingo, and all the proper ways to pose for selfies. Here was the pose of the weekend, that Lindsay (of course) directed:
Bet you never knew that someone could play guitar with gloves on?
The stare out to the sky----all Lindsay's idea. And I have to hand it to her, this will be the go-to pic whenever I need a good laugh. Rumor has it that the one below is now the screen saver on Lindsay's phone....I am sure Brian will be thrilled.
He is a good sport, though, isn't he? All he was trying to do was a little yard work....
Lindsay Lou- Thank you for being the caring, sensitive, loving niece that you are. And thank you for being such a wonderful big cousin.
You are the closest Lucy will probably ever get to a sister. What a treasure.
How grateful I am for you.
I love you so, girrrl.
P.S. Stay strong
