Firsts. I’m sure you remember a lot of yours. I definitely remember many of mine. Maybe not the very early ones, and maybe not always pleasant ones, but I remember plenty. The first time 
I rode my bike down the big hill in our backyard. The first time I got my braces tightened (ouch!). The first time I played a solo piano recital. The first time I flew in a plane. The first time a boy called me. I can think of many more throughout my childhood and adolescence. And, now that I am a Mom myself, I understand even more the importance of being present for every.single.first a child experiences.
So, when I hear from his host family that Stover has experienced not one, but two firsts so far during the hosting session, I knew I had to share. Because he deserves praise. He deserves accolades. He deserves for those firsts to be shouted from the rooftops in his honor. Not only did Stover learn to ride a bike, but he also experienced the ocean for the first time.
In both instances, he started out with much hesitation. He wasn’t sure about either one. But he gave them both a chance, and the end result was pure, unadulterated joy.
While his host family is absolutely celebrating these firsts, it is my hope and theirs that by sharing them with you all we might find his forever family, so that his next round of firsts can happen with those who will remember them forever right alongside him.
Stover is 9 years old and is available for adoption from Colombia through Madison Adoption Associates. He is here in the US on a hosting trip through August 14. For more information about this sweet boy, please email sarah@madisonadoption.org or complete our Prospective Adoptive Parent form.