Almost ten years ago, I returned home from a mission trip to Romania with the conviction that I would one day adopt a child.
Along the way, God impressed the country and orphans of China upon my heart. And I would stare at photos of little Chinese girls on adoption websites, wondering what my one-day daughter might look like.
For 3 years, I prayed that the Lord would give my husband the same passion for adoption and the readiness to leap.
Almost 3 years ago, tears welled up as Scott told me he was ready to move forward. I thanked God over and over again for answering my prayers.
On October 24, 2009, we were matched with this beautiful girl, Guan Xue Hua.
With that dimpled smile and sparkle in her eyes, she captured our hearts from halfway around the world.
And on April 12, 2010, Guan Xue Hua became our daughter, Virginia Grace Xue Brown. I will never forget those first moments of seeing her in person. She was more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. And her fear gradually turned to trust over time. 
Grace, you are one of the greatest joys and blessings of my life. Your personality can light up a room. Your affection stirs up love and gratitude in my heart. Your stubborness tells of your strength and survival skills before you reached our arms. And we simply couldn’t imagine our lives without you.
Happy Gotcha Day, Grace! We are forever changed because of you!
