meet Josiah — BERI IRVING

The text came a little after 11pm just a few days ago. I knew the uncertainty the day had brought my dear friends, and was by my phone hoping... praying... waiting for news...

And then finally... 'We're picking up our baby!'

After months of waiting, hoping, and praying, it was finally time... Josiah was coming to his HOME.

A family of 4 was becoming 5.

The next day was paperwork, questions, answers, and lots and lots of tears. After so much anticipation and uncertainty this day was so full of emotion.

Then it was official. He was theirs.

I got to their house less than an hour after Josiah became a Smith. They were all out there in the front yard beaming as they showed him off to friends and neighbors. Such proud parents.

There are people who are meant to be parents. Rachael and David are these people. They're funny, they're endlessly patient, they're ready to drop everything for pizza and chocolate milk.

Josiah, you are so blessed. What a wonderful family you just became a part of.

This next picture just absolutely kills me. Honestly, the whole time I took the pictures I was teary, and editing them was no different. This baby isn't even mine and the joy I feel for these friends in finally getting their third son is immense.

Rachael is many wonderful things, not the least of which is an incredibly loving Mother. When she holds this little boy it's so right.

It's exactly where he belongs.

LOOK. AT. THESE. FACES. The faces that got to hold their baby brother for the first time.

Counting fingers and toes (10 of each were verified)...

Smith family, enjoy every sleepless moment with this new little life.

Josiah, we are all so glad you are home.

Time and experience have taught me a priceless lesson: Any child you take for your own becomes your own if you give of yourself to that child. I have born two children and had seven others by adoption, and they are all my children, equally beloved and precious. --Dale Evans