Family Christmas Pictures

Julia's 5th birthday party

Julia almost sitting up!!!!

Oh my gosh!  I am so excited : )  I came into our family room just a few minutes ago and out of the corner of my eye I thought I saw our 4 year old daughter, Regan, playing in Julia's new play area we set up for her.  The reason I thought this was Regan, was because what I saw was someone in a "sitting up" position.  But it wasn't.....it was Julia!!!  She still had her hands on the ground, propping herself in this position, but WOW....go Julia!  I managed to run and get my camera really fast and got two pictures before she rolled over to her back.  I have shown pictures here on our blog of Julia up on all fours, but she had not yet started heading to the sitting up position.   She has been loving this play pen area with colorful foam mat and lots of toys from Beyond Play.  Our Julia is getting stronger and stronger everyday.  Oh, and before I forget.....she is now 28 lbs. 2 oz.  That's up 12 lbs. 10 oz. from her weight of 15 lbs. 8 oz. when came home with her almost 6 1/2 months ago.  She has also gone from 18m clothes to 3T.  We are amazed.  Praise the Lord!

Renewing our vows (August 13, 2011)

Saying Goodbye to the Salems

One year ago today, our family met the Salem family.  Steve and I were sharing the story of Julia at our church.  Anthony, Adeye and family came to show their support and even said a few words.  Over the year, we have seen them several times (they live one hour south of us) and have kept in touch by email, hospital visits with Julia, and phone calls.  Adeye even made it to the airport to welcome us home with Julia and Aaron.  The Salem family will always hold a special place in our hearts, as God used them to lead us to the two beautiful children we brought into our family. 

Yesterday, we attended a surprise party to say farewell to the Salem family as they are moving across the country in a few weeks time.  They will be missed very much and by so many people.  We join in prayer with many others for their safe travel and many blessings as they continue to serve the Lord in all they do. 

Three moms and 6 children, all from the same orphanage

Me, Adeye, Amy and kids (clockwise) : Julia, Harper, Sonya, Aaron, Dusty, and Hailee