A gift

As I look at my 3 children I know that they are a precious gift from God. So knowing this makes this story even more special I think. My neighbor and friend Nanci has a step daughter who she has raised since the girl was 2. Nikki has had a lot of emotional problems, some of which was due to the fact her biological mother didn't take care of her when she was pregnant with her, and has really tried to make the right choices in her life. Nanci has been her true mom, being there every step of the way and some of the roads have been extremely hard. Last year Nikki who was 17 found out she was pregnant. She knew that she wouldn't be responsible enough to take care of her baby and didn't want to burden her own family with it so she made a choice to go to The Living Vine in Savannah where they help teens who are pregnant, give them a place to stay, try to find adoptive parents for their babies and give them skills for the outside world. It's really a remarkable place and they are doing a lot of good there. Nikki helped pick the adoptive parents and had several meetings with them. Nanci said that they are good people who have been trying to have a child of their own for 15 years now. Nikki is at peace with her decision. I've kept in touch with her and she came over during Christmas, gave me a big hug and told me how much she appreciated my support. She has always had a special place in my heart the past 2 years we have lived here. Nanci called me last night in tears, Nikki gave birth to a beautiful baby boy and thankfully they are both okay. It was touch and go for alittle while though. This is an open adoption so Nikki will be able to have the baby in her room for the next 48 hours. I know how difficult this has to be for her and letting go will be the hardest thing but she has truely gave this couple a gift and a blessing.