posted by Sandy Fails 1 comments

Hannah was born in China and lived the first 16 months of her life neglected in some type of orphanage (Susan couldn't find out the details). Meanwhile, Susan had been working her way through the agonizingly slow adoption process. When the two finally met in China last year, Hannah had no language, couldn't support her weight on her legs, and wanted no touch or interaction. Susan described her as terrified and shell shocked.

That's hard to remember when you see Hannah now. She's a sociable, bright and charming little girl. She runs, grins, plays, talks, bestows kisses and is already learning her letters.

In the magazine story, Susan descrbied what happened as Hannah learned she was loved and safe. "Her first smile was like winning the lottery," Susan said. Since then, "Hannah's whole persona has changed."

I so admire Susan for her persistence in the adoption gauntlet and the humor, devotion and energy she has given her daughter since that momentous day one year ago.

I love seeing Susan and Hannah around town and occasionally spending time with them. I can't take my eyes off of Hannah, partly because she's irresistibly cute and partly because her dramatic transformation makes me feel so good. There's no better story than the resilience of the human heart when it finally finds loves.

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