Hannah holding Zander a few weeks after Christmas

Bruce and Zander on Christmas day

Should I say FOUR grandchildren?

Carter Bell. Carter is six years old and he'll have to decide what he thinks of Grandpa Bruce and Grandma Kandy, but if he will have us - we will gladly count him in as well. We love the entire Bell Family!!

Madeleine Ivanna Bell

Well, here's my explanation of why I think "Adoption is about Love"! It is with a FULL heart that I enter this post: Over a year ago, I learned that our middle son's girlfriend at the time was expecting. They were living together in Murray, Utah. Eli and Kelly, soon after learning about being pregnant, ended their relationship. I began praying for them and for my unborn grandchild. I wanted what was best for all concerned, and I felt very strongly that neither Eli or Kelly were in a place in their life to raise this little girl. Kelly told me barely into the pregnancy that she would be giving her up for adoption. I still prayed, as I know people change their minds, and especially after giving birth, she may still change her mind. That time has come and gone now and little Madeleine was heroically and honorably placed for adoption through LDS Family Services. I love, honor and respect Kelly AND Eli for this decision. That is a miracle in and of itself!! BUT THERE IS MORE!!!! Madeleine is the daughter of Kevin and Corinne Bell and little sister to Carter Bell of Eugene, Oregon. The Bell's, through a series of events, which included Kelly selflessly allowing us to view The Bell Family's Blog, have been communicating with me through email for about two months now! Kevin and Corinne's adoption of Miss Madeleine was finalized the Monday after Christmas and they felt it important (I agree) to get to the Temple as soon as possible with their little family. They have graciously invited Grandpa Bruce and I to attend the sealing in the Portland Temple on Saturday January 30th, 2010! With Madeleine being blessed the next day in their sacrament meeting in Eugene. As I write this I cannot contain the emotion that I feel. With tears streaming down my face, I want everyone to know that Adoption Is About Love!!!! I am so impressed with the love Kelly felt for her little girl. Eli too loves his little girl and told me he wanted her to go to a good home and he wanted to be a part of the decision of who that family would be. Kevin and Corinne could not conceive after Carter and wanted to allow him the opportunity to be a big brother and love a little sister. They also have love enough to share with this amazing little spirit and have willingly opened up their hearts and home to not only Madeleine, but to us as well.... There is just so much love in this situation that I simply cannot contain it all and it comes pouring out of me when I think of it!
I have wanted to share this with others for sometime now, but the timing just wasn't right. But the time is right NOW!!!! I am excited and thrilled to be able to post pictures soon of little Madeleine and her amazing family; Daddy Kevin, Mommy Corinne and big brother Carter!!! Thanks for reading! Please come back often to learn of my THREE grandchildren: Hannah Jo Graves, Zander Mack Graves and Madeleine Ivanna Bell!!! ;o) Signed, Grandma Kandy!