Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Adios Antigua, Muchas Gracias


Packing up our month's worth of luggage while preparing to leave Antigua was truly bittersweet today. I am not entirely prepared to process it tonight. To be brief, I swallowed hard, took a good look at my family, and put one foot in front of the other with joy in my heart realizing each step was one step closer to the our dreams of coming home with Luciana at long last.

I feel so overwhelmingly blessed to have had this time to bond with her and get to know her in such a special way. As we drove away from Antigua, I felt a kind of sadness I was surprised by, but it soon turned to excitement. We are so close. Tomorrow is one of those days we have imagined for so long, it is almost hard to believe it is here. In fact, it is going to come quickly and I really should get to bed.

With that said, I felt I had to at least post my own little thank you and farewell to the town that will forever hold a special place in my heart when I look at my baby girl. It is not her birthtown, but it is our own special, colorful, spirited little spot in the world. And, it is time to say goodbye.

If I can keep my eyes open a little longer, I'll get some pics from the lake up... if not, tomorrow. Oh... and by the way... TOMORROW IS OUR EMBASSY DAY!!! YIPPIE!!!!

Much love.

7 comments:

Bobbi said...

Oh, beautiful family!! You all look great, but exhausted!!

I know this time has been so precioius. Saying adios will be tough. Part of you will always be there. This time has changed you all. Though not ideal, and I know the heartache that came before this, looking at what you have experienced I feel that it was God's way of fulfilling your dream.

I will be thinking of you all tomorrow. Hope you get some sleep. AHHHH the excitement.

Looking forward to saying HOLA to you here in the States.

Lots of Love!

Nicole said...

Beth,
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed your stories and pictures from Antigua. While I was there all I could think about was getting home. Now that we're home, all I can think about is our next trip to Guatemala... :)

Enjoy your last few days in GC.

Can't wait to hear about your Embassy day and homecoming!

Unknown said...

What an amazing journey! I am so thankful for the gift you have given us all-- the writing and photos in this blog. It has really helped me, and I'm sure so many others be able to feel connected to you and your family throughout this long and complicated process. I am so grateful that you have allowed us to share in such a deeply moving and personal experience--- thank you.

We are sending you extra love and hugs for a wonderful day tomorrow for your family! Safe travels and we can't wait to see you-- ALL!!!

Love ya, Laura

veggiemom said...

Goosebumps...
I can so imagine the mixed emotions but I am so excited to see the next part of your journey as a complete family coming home!
Kerri and Ruby

Emily said...

Beth:

I can't wait to see your pics from the lake! Our time there was an adventure so I look forward to hearing about yours.

I too vividly remember my departure from Antigua after living there for 5 weeks....it was totally bittersweet...but so happy that we were going HOME! The memories will last a lifetime!

Have a great embassy appt.

Emily

Sandi said...

Congratulations. I am so excited for you. Blessings to you on your very special day!

Anonymous said...

Today is the day all your dreams come true ! There is nothing but prayers, blessings and love (Okay a few tears )coming from Maine to all of you. The next chapter of the Orlando family is about to begin. What excitement! Enjoy all the beauty and love from Lucy's birthplace. You, Keith and SAm are just the perfect family for her.
I will be thinking of you and keeping you in my heart all day at school today. love, Terri O