White Belt

Last night at karate class we got Michael his first Gi (uniform), complete with the white (beginner) belt.  He was so excited!  He carefully tried it on and took great care in bringing it home neatly folded up.  He had started trying out the classes a couple weeks ago and loves it and so far seems to have quite the knack for it (he is very athletic...).  In martial arts, the white belt is the starter color when you begin.  For Michael (yes, here comes the word picture.... :) it reminded me of how coming to our family is a new start for him.  It's funny to think of a 13 year old being at the starting line for their life, but that's what it is.  A new family, country, language, everything is new.  We laugh at how stoic he was in the pictures we had seen before traveling to Ukraine, and how we had anticipated that he would be quiet and withdrawn, and how long it would take to break through.  So far nothing could be further from the truth.  He is very happy in our family, absolutely loving having a dad and big brother who love him.  Michael is very bright and learns quickly, athletic, energetic (still hasn't learned to pace himself yet....), laughs easily and loves to play, and yes (sorry people I don't know....) has our Tansey family sense of humor!  Of anything in our adoption journey to date, he has been the greatest surprise!  I love this kid :)