{August 18, 1982}
28 years ago I came home.
Perhaps weddings make you hopelessly sentimental. Or they just encourage you to look back, to reflect upon from where you came. For me, this anniversary of my adoption seems especially poignant.
I am flooded with feelings of nostalgia, but mostly overwhelming gratitude. My parents have raised me in a way that I can only hope to carry on to my children. They have shown me - taught me - a generosity that I wish I could adequately convey. I'm not referring to a generosity of money, but one of self and of spirit. Growing up, no matter what he was doing, my dad would set aside anything to help me with my homework. Similarly, Mama Seashell was at my school so often that classmates constantly asked me if she worked there. There was never a moment of hesitation to do, or help, or volunteer, or give. They sat on countless boards and committees to better the community and the lives of other children, to create opportunities for those less fortunate while ensuring that every need was met for my sister and me.
And they continue to give. As our wedding draws closer and closer, I am deeply touched by how much has been given to us. The countless errands, the planning, the phone calls, the coordination, the checks written, and the unconditional love and support. I cannot quantify what has gone into making this wedding what it will be. As I blog, you hear about my projects and the things that Mr. Seashell and I try to accomplish over the weekends. The other piece is that my parents, Mama Seashell in particular, are working behind the scenes in ways I have barely documented. It is a true labor of love.
Mama and Papa Seashell, I can not thank you enough for all you do and all you have given me. 28 years ago I came home. I came home to a gift of endless love, support, and generosity. I could not be luckier. I love you!
