Monday, March 23, 2009

Singin' Along with Dad

Lily is learning to sing and she loves doing it with her mom and dad... or just by herself. This video was taken at bedtime and, as you can see, she is still very attached to a washcloth. Washcloths served as her "security blanket" in the orphanage. When you don't have a teddy bear, or any other soft toy, a washcloth feels pretty good.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Lily is 2 Years Old!!

Sunday was a very special day for us. A year ago we were celebrating Lily's first birthday halfway across the world from her; still waiting with great anticipation to meet her and hold her lovingly in our arms. Her second birthday was so much more special. We were able to celebrate with her; and hold her lovingly in our arms.

Lily was joined by friends from her school and from her neighborhood to have a fun birthday party. She had fun playing, snacking, having her birthday cake with the other kids, and opening her presents.

A year ago Lily was flirting with death as her heart was barely functioning; today her physical and cognitive development is growing at an incredible rate. It is such a joy to experience and share daily the changes in the growth in her communication skills and in her physical abilities.

And Lily is such a happy child. It's rare that she doesn't have a smile on her face and isn't ready to enjoy a playful giggle.

We have been blessed with this wonderful little person.





Lily's birthday cake



"It's my 2nd birthday, and I'll smile if I want to..."



Lily and her friends



Blowing out two candles



Yummy birthday cake!





Lily opening her presents



Misha sharing Lily's birthday party





Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Lily the 737 Star

On our trip back from Ohio recently on Southwest Airlines, the crew was infatuated with Lily. She was invited to the cockpit by co-pilot Ron Hodges. Hodges shared with us that he and his wife were considering adopting.


The flight attendents spent time interacting with Lily. They told us how much fun they experienced each time they came by our seats.

Lily has the gift of attracting people with her charming personality and fun-loving spirit.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

A Visit to Grandma

Lily Mei visited her Grandma Ethel last weekend in Ohio. It was a very special visit because Lily also got to see her two aunties, Lin and Sarah, her cousin Rachael, and her Uncle Vince.

Grandma Ethel threw an early birthday party for Lily and invited a group of her dear friends. These friends said many prayers for Lily when she's was undergoing her heart surgery last year.



Reading a book with Grandma Ethel



Playing with Grandma Ethel



Beautiful mom and daughter



Opening one of the many presents given to Lily



Uncle Vince, Lily, Dad, Grandma, Lin, Rachael, and Sarah