THE MESSER FAMILY

We adopted our daughter, Celia, in April 2004 through Adopt-A-Child. We had such a wonderful experience that when it was time to adopt again, there was no question on what agency to use. We adopted Sadie in May 2006. Throughout the adoption process, our questions were always answered by the staff. No matter how many times I called and asked the same question, they always took the time to calm my fears. The process for both our daughters took 13 months each from start to finish. Even though it felt like eternity at that time, I would not change our journey! We always felt safe and secure with our travels to Moscow, Russia. The staff in Russia took great care of us and we always knew that we could rely on them for anything. They took us grocery shopping, sightseeing and souvenir shopping as well. Our driver even pointed out a Russian Fairytale book that he thought our children would love to have when they grew up. There will always hold a place in our heart for all that they did for us while we were in Moscow.

Our daughters are beautiful, sweet and strong willed! Celia just turned four years old and has started to practice her writing. She had some speech delay in the beginning, but now voices her opinion and feelings with ease! She recently told me that 'I make her frustrated!' My husband says that she is learning her attitude form me! She loves to swim and excells at it. She thinks she is a princess and loves to play dress up and get into my makeup drawer. When we first met Celia she was tiny, scared, timid and shy, and now she has this energetic, adorable, smart, independent personality. It is amazing what love and attention can do!!!!

Sadie will turn two in a few months and has been home with us for eight months. I feel like she has always been with us. She joined our family with ease. She is sassy and silly and knows it. (Celia had a harder adjustment to a new sister!) She is strong willed and wants to do everything that Celia is doing. Her favorite words are 'NO!' and 'I DO!' She is thriving and her speech is wonderful. She now is saying 'Hi Mom' and 'Hi Dad' and she is so proud of herself. She chases her sister and the dog and won't ever leave them alone. There is never a dull moment with the two of them. We often look at each other and wonder what we ever did with all the free time before children!

We are so blessed and fortunate to have our daughters. I can't imagine life without them. God has truly answered our prayers. Thank you Laura, Sonya and the entire staff of Adopt-A-Child for all your help in making our dreams come true.

Love,

Mary Ann, Archie, Celia & Sadie Messer

messergirls3@verizon.net