Fletcher Adoption: I see light...

Off to school!

So, a lot has happened since we posted last! Most remarkably, Ca has transitioned to school full-time. We went in last Wednesday while the kids were at lunch and met her teacher. On Thursday, teacher told the kids about Carissa and we came for a meet-and-greet, and I gave a little background on adoption and Carissa's history (at a kindergartener's level). Then Friday we officially registered her and spent the rest of the day at school. I went with her again on Monday, and then on Tuesday, she went by herself for most of the day, and I stopped in near the end of the day to "help with the math lesson." Wednesday, Thursday and Friday were completely independent. Each day I've been taking all three elementary kids to school and Co and S have been walking Ca to her classroom. She is VERY excited to be a big kid and go to school with her siblings and friends. She loves playing on the computer and practicing her penmanship on the iPad and playing hopscotch at recess. Sadly, because we share so little language for discussing things we can't see, she cannot tell me much about her day. She does not seem upset by the loss, but I wish we could connect about all her "schoolgirl experiences."

When I drive the kids to school, we get another half hour at home and a much more relaxed Mama. It's made getting out the door much more straightforward and stress-free than when we're trying to catch the bus. I'm trying to decide if it's okay with me for a morning drive to be our new normal. Probably should be. I have seen God's rich blessing on this transition for us all. Thank you for your prayers.

Whether it's connected to Ca's start of school, S's maturing, or simply the work of the Holy Spirit, we have had many MANY fewer tantrums from him over the last two weeks. Home has been a much more stable and calm place, and I am grateful. We worked really hard on affirming S for good choices, and noticed he began to make more of them. I feel a nudge to work really hard on affirming my other three and see what other kinds of positive changes we might see. That brings me to my blog title... I wouldn't say that I really see 'the light at the end of the tunnel.' That would imply that I'm nearing the opening. And of course, we're just beginning this journey, so the "end" is certainly not very close at all. But the tunnel itself is getting lighter - the darkness is lessening and becoming easier to bear.

There've been some incredible outpourings of love, encouragement, and tasty food from friends in the past two weeks, which have also provided a boost to our spirits. Thanks to all of you who have loved on us!

Here are some photos: