Transformed

 In 2014 we met a scared almost feral 13 year old. She had been drugged, abused, had no understanding of personal space, could barely see or hear, could not talk, read, or write. We started right away with sign language and working with her to help her understand that the way she was raised was not ok. We had to teach her that lap dances were NOT ok and was NOT something that a 13 year old was expected or suppose to do. We had to help her understand that being tied to a bed was NOT a way a child should be treated. 

We discovered that she had hearing loss since birth, it had not be diagnosed. She could only see 6 inches in front of her, that was also not diagnosed. We got her hearing aids and glasses and worked on speech and reading. She started with Dick and Jane books, and now she is reading at a Kindergarten-1st grade level. She is doing 1st grade math, she is talking and using simple sentences. She has come so far. She still struggles with some things but we focus on what she can do rather than those things she can not do. 

She just looked at me while playing with magnet tiles and said, "Look mom, a car!" "Ooooooo, beautiful!" 

We are so proud of her. Tomorrow, Ellie turns 21. By the end of April she will have been home 8 years. She is full of joy, is kind, is sassy, and loves to learn and help out around the house. She loves to be tucked in bed at night, loves for me to say prayers with her and sing to her. Her love of God and Jesus is so strong. Her favorite books are Children's Bibles. 

Ellie loves unicorns, and watching "Just Add Magic" (a tv series for kids about 3 best friends who cook magical recipes). She loves to sing and dance and play with toys. She loves road trips and has the best laugh. 

She has come such a long way, from a scared young girl who didn't even know how to use a fork or spoon, to a young woman who is full of smiles, laughter, and confidence. We are so blessed that she is in our family. 

Birthday pictures will be coming in the next few days but for now, a few pictures from the last few years!