Turning A Corner

I really feel like we've turned a corner with Jack Henry. In the last month or so, Jack Henry is beginning to love us. He is so excited to see us when we pick him up from daycare or when we walk through the front door. He yells "Momma" or "Daddy" and runs to hug our legs. He wants us to pick him up immediately. When a family members hurts him/herself, he wants to kiss them. The hugs and kisses come more frequently without having to ask for them. Furthermore, he is much more comfortable with us and his surroundings. There is a swagger in his walk. He knows he belongs with us. In return, we love this little boy completely.

He is a member of our family. Blake, the girls, and I were all patient (for the most part) about the bonding process. I did have trouble with friends and family understanding the process. I explained it to them. I asked them not to hold him or pick him up, to give Blake and I the space and time to be able to bond. Some people did not listen or respect our wishes. This was difficult. I do believe that only parents holding the child (or limiting time with other adults) does help immensely with the bonding process.

When we adopted Maggie, the bonding process was difficult-for her and for me. I was impatient. I was frustrated. I was scared. This time around I knew it would come. I was more patient, less frustrated, less scared. This comes from having more wisdom the second time around. I learned a thing or two from our first adoption. I wish I would have limited somewhat or altogether the holding time by other adults.

Is bonding complete with Jack Henry? Absolutely not. I believe we are still working on it, but I am happy with the progress made so far. I see more and more everyday that Jack Henry trusts us. Everyday, he reveals just little more of his wonderful, adorable personality.