Purple Day!

Someone had fun at school today.  Can you guess who?

One Year~ Reflections

One year ago today, I meet my daughter for the first time.  I had no idea what to expect.  Sure, we had done this once before, but this was different.  She was 2 years old.  How would she react?  I had already fallen in love with this little girl that I'd never met before.  Well, Dumpling was scared and quiet but accepting.  She was simply more gorgeous in person than I could ever imagine.

As I reflect upon all of the changes that have taken place over the last year, I have witnessed a miracle.

The physical changes are evident.

She is has grown.

Her hair is longer.

She smiles readily.

The changes inside her are more extraordinary.

She trusts.

She loves and laughs easily.

Anxiousness is replaced with security.

She loves BIG!

She knows the love of a family.

She gives and receives affection willingly.

She has blessed our family in ways unimaginable.  She has taught us to trust God when we were filled with fear and doubt.  She has stretched me in ways that I never thought possible.  I am truly privileged to call her my daughter.

We love you to the Moon and Back little girl!  Happy Gotcha Day!

your sister adores you - kisses!

Wisdom.........

http://www.nohandsbutours.com/2013/08/25/disclosure-within-reason-adoption-and-back-to-school

I love this!  Sometimes we have to use a different approach for our children.  After all, it is their story to tell.

Happy Sunday!

Happenings...........

Something exciting has happened to the Frog.  As you can see, she has advanced to dancing on pointe!  This is a major accomplishment for her after many years of taking ballet and a lot of hard work.  We are SO proud of our girl!  Don't you think her feet look absolutely beautiful in these shoes?  We do!

little model

blow

the infamous giraffe

cheese

We celebrated Popi's birthday today!  There is a story behind the giraffe.  Popi adores giraffes.  The little girls and I found this giraffe and decided that it was perfect for his birthday.  Well...... a certain little Dumpling also fell in love with this very unlikely burlap giraffe.  Popi couldn't bare to 'take' his giraffe from her.  Happy Birthday Popi!  We love you!

First day......

Dumpling's first day of 3K .  She bravely got out of the car and went with her teacher .  

We are so proud of you little girl.  Just look at how far you've come in a year.  Your big sister is so excited to show you the 'ropes' of preschool.  What a blessing!

1ST

First day of 9th grade and first day of Redi Raccoons ( 4K - the same class her 14 year old brother was in 10 years ago)..... bittersweet!

The Frog refused to take a 'school' picture this year.

12 years ago..........

12 years ago, a sweet little baby girl joined our family.  My mom was able to witness her first grandchild being born.  It was a special day!
We celebrate 12 years with you Miss Frog.  You are a caring, thoughtful, and smart girl.  We are proud of the young lady that you are becoming.  Happy Birthday!

Gatlinburg photo dump....

candy shop-=yum!

fun for the brave few

PS: We had a set-back with sleep since our trip BUT we are working on it!  :)

Sleep.....

Both of our girls struggle with sleep issues common to internationally adopted kids.  Nighttime seems to bring many fears to the surface.  Dumpling had many nights of waking up in complete terror.  Princess would wake up and be unable to get back to sleep for hours.  I have prayed over these girls for many nights in hopes of getting into a peaceful routine.  We have tried different types of sleeping arrangements in hopes of giving all of us rest.  After 10 months of sleeping with or right next to us, Dumpling has moved into Princess' room.  I have transitioned her slowly in hopes of making her comfortable.  This current arrangement has been in place for about 10 days and seems to be working well.  Dumpling and Princess seem happy and nighttime waking is at a minimum.  This has been life-altering for us!  I am one happy Mom!

A new driver........

We have a new driver in our house.  She has finally learned how to push down the 'gas'.  She may or may not steer.  She may run into an obstacle or TWO!  And, she has learned how to go in reverse in circles.  Watch out world!
“A child's life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark.” – Chinese Proverb

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary.........

Not many couples can say that they have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.  We had the privilege of celebrating with my parents this weekend.  It was truly a beautiful, blessed celebration made sweeter by the fact family and friends came into town to join us.  Yes, I do have the best parents in the world!  Congrats Mom and Dad- I love you~!

renewing their vows

the family, mom, dad, my brother and his family, and ours

somehow, someway a pirate appeared at our dinner gathering

the Littles at brunch

Nana and Dumpling- love, love this

Dad and his brothers

mom and her brothers