The Red Thread

Once our eyes have been opened we can't pretend that
we don't know what to do; for God who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls
knows that we know and holds us responsible to act. Proverbs
24:12

Monday, June 13, 2011

One Year Ago

On June 11th, we celebrated Iris' gotcha day. One year ago Joel and I got on a plane and flew half way around the world to meet our youngest daughter. We walked into the social welfare office and saw this face for the very first time.





We got to watch a transformation take place as she went from "orphan" to "beloved daughter".


We have been blessed with that smile for a one year now and we are so very grateful.





Today, Iris got glasses. Doesn't she look cute?



Already striking glamor girl pose.


Iris, we just couldn't be more in love with you. You are such an amazing little girl. You got on a plane with 2 total strangers and flew half way around the world to start a new life far from everything you had ever known. You are so smart and willing to try anything. You have NO fear. Your English is spot on now. Now if we could only get you to STOP talking.

Iris will not be left out of anything for any reason. The older kids have razor scooters and Iris has a three wheeled scooter. She wanted nothing to do with that baby scooter. She has now mastered the razor. Elliot has learned to ride his bike without training wheels and Iris is also determined to learn. I told her she needed to master the tricycle first and learn to steer. So in typical Iris fashion, she climbed on the tricycle and mastered that in one day. Now she is ready for the bicycle. Unstoppable! We love you girl.

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Well, it is official, Ansley and Elliot are now 9 and 6. They decided to have a joint party. I was very grateful. The obvious choice was a Mario party. Soo....



Iris helping me blow up balloons
Party favors. Aren't the hats the cutest.




Just a little excited






the girls hamming it up








Who said he could grow up?










Joel, trying to keep the boys in line












Iris in the hamster ball















Watching the pinwheel
















Totally spellbound

















Cake anyone








It was pretty hot on Friday, but everyone loved the party. The kids had a blast trying on different mustaches and hats. They played video games. Life doesn't get much better then that for the 6 to 9 year old crowd.