Visiting Grandma

Over the last week Anna, Lily, and Dad spent 7 days with Grandma Ethel in Ohio.  We had the opportunity to meet some of Grandma's friends.  We also were able to see Auntie Lin and Aunt Sara and cousin Hannah.  It was a very fun time for Anna and Lily.  They even had the opportunity to play in the sand on the shores of Lake Erie as the weather was very warm.

Traveling home proved to be more challenging as Seattle was hit with winter weather. Our flight to Seattle was cancelled and we spent a night in Denver. But on Tuesday we got home and Anna and Lily were so happy to see Mommy and Zoe.

Dancing with Grandma Ethel

Reading with Auntie Lin



Doing puzzles with Cousin Hanna



Grandma makes such good meals!

Halloween 2010

Anna chose to be a mermaid on her very first Halloween.  Lily was Ladybug Girl this year.  They ran and giggled their way through the neighborhood.  At each door that would argue over whose turn it was to ring the doorbell, and then loudly announce "Trick or Treating!!".   Then it was time to go home and answer the door.  They seemed to enjoy this even more.

Look at those smiles!

Ready to go.

The whole trick or treating gang... Zoe, Chloe, Lily, Mommy,
Misha, and Anna.

Anna Turns Five

Saturday Anna had her first birthday since joining our family.  Last year we waited anxiously to receive pictures of her party from the orphanage. 

What a difference a year makes!  Leaving the orphanage, traveling all the way to America, learning a new language, having major surgery.  Anna has come so far this last year and has done so well.  She expresses her joy in many ways every day.

Although a bit overwhelmed, Anna had a wonderful time at her party.  Our next door neighbor Howard provided a bouncy room that was the hit of the day.

That winning Anna smile!



Lily helps Anna blow her candles



Having fun in the bouncy room