Good bye Anna!

I doubt Anna will ever read this but maybe one day she will find it.

Dear Anna,

You came to our house under very difficult circumstances.  You were removed from a family that really wanted you to live the American Dream or experience.  You came to us because we wanted you to come live with us.  The first night was so difficult for all of us.  We didn't have a bed for you, only an air mattress.  We said we would make it work.  Michelle was kind enough to share her dresser and half her closet with you. 

After a few weeks, and life settled down for us, we grew to love you.  It was difficult to say the least but not because of you, but because we had an extra person living with us. We always tried to include you in our lives and sometimes it may not have seemed that way.  Christmas came to you with us sharing our family traditions with you and some of your traditions with us. I will use your Gingerbread boys that you gave to me, maybe with my class, maybe with my girls.

Winter was upon us full force and we said we would do things, but you and Michelle decided to participate in Winterguard which I know you two had fun performing.  At least you got to go to Macon.

You and Michelle will always have a special bond.  You came to our house a friend of Michelle's you leave our house a friend, what happened in between doesn't really matter as you two are great friends to each other. Those memories will fade but you will keep the good memories with you in your heart.

We went through a lot and I learned alot from you.  I hope you learned a thing or two from us. 
I will miss you when you go back to Germany.  I have grown to love you and care for you.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. You continue to shine and laugh.  I see you are so happy just being you.

Love,
D

We have had two parties for Anna leaving. One was at the skating rink then coming back to the house to swim and cake.  The kids all had a great time .  Anna was really surprised that we did that.  The following week, her mom was here and we had the adults that were a part of Anna's life here over.  We grilled and ate and swam and they used the hot tub.  What a great day we had!

Tonight, the girls are going to a local restaurant with a group of HS students to say their goodbyes again.  Tomorrow we will go to a little cafe for lunch then they leave for the airport.  I am dreading that as that will be our final goodbye.  I am never sure if I will see Anna again.  My hope would be to see her again but only time will tell.

Prayers for safe travel to a "foreign" country for Anna and her mom.

Happy Sunday friends!
D