Daniel and Papa

We told Daniel we were going to adopt him on our mission trip in June. Although he was a bit quiet when we told him the news, it was obvious by his reactions he understood and was very pleased. He latched onto the girls immediately and would not leave their side. After spending the night with us at the guest house, he seemed to get it ~ he was finally getting a turn to leave the O and go to the guest house like so many of the other children. It was then when Daniel began to call us "mom" and "papa." After we returned to the O the next morning, Daniel ran up to Junior and told him, "I have a family!" My heart just melted when Junior told us what Daniel had said to him!!!!

I just love this photo! It was taken on the way to our DHS appointment last month. Daniel was so proud that he had a family that day. I asked him to stand by his papa so I could take a picture. He ran right up to Mike and wrapped his little arms around him. I think the look on Daniel's face and the sparkle in his eyes shows it all! I will always remember the moment, the day and the way Daniel expressed his excitement!