Six Sweet Months!

May 19, 2008 is a day that is forever etched in my memory.  It is the day that I first laid eyes on my daughter.  The ache that had long been in my heart went away the moment I laid eyes on her.  The wait was over.  I was whole once again.  It's hard to believe that it was six months ago, I can't imagine life without her.  I have chosen a picture from each month that she has been a part of us.  I present to you, my girl Ted . . .

This was a mere hour, maybe two, after Gotcha.  We had just arrived back at our hotel room. Teddi was enjoying her new sippy cup (see the water dripping from her chin), and had a tight hold on her baby doll.  If you look closely you can see the little teddy bear on her shirt collar. . . God's final seal.  She was unbelievably happy to be with us.  There were times of sadness and grieving, and looking back at some of the pictures her scared little face makes my heart hurt. For the most part though it was if she already knew us . . . such a happy girl.  God had prepared her heart!

June . . . our noodle lovin' girl . . . Home Sweet Home

 . . . meeting big brother Bryce

. . .  learning to live in a family

 . . . ever so brave!

July . . . the discovery of donut holes, mmm 

. . . and swimming . . . and fireworks, 

and so much more.

August . . . ice cream in Michigan . . .

meeting Grandmas and Grandpas,

aunts, uncles and cousins . . .

surrounded by love!

September . . . celebrating the first day of 

Fall with paper, glue and Grinner. . . 

as well as making her way

 bravely through palate surgery . . .

and recovery.  Strong girl.

October . . . showing Grinner how to skateboard

 . . . loving Play-doh and markers,

scissors and paper . . . dress-up . . .

 and Hot Wheels . . . and playing outside.

November . . . swinging and smiling

 . . . and talking . . . and laughing . . .

and talking .  . . and singing . . .

and did I mention talking?  

And sleeping through the night!

Yay Ted!

Teddi, 

You are everything I dreamed of, in one tiny, brave little package.  You love life, and we love you!  We are so proud of how far you have come baby girl!  To hear you say, "I love you" makes my heart sing.  To hear you pray makes me so proud to be your mama.  To hear you giggle with your brother makes me giggle too.  Thank you sweet girl for the joy you bring to us.  We love you Teddi Xiao Xiao with all our hearts.

Blessings from my grateful nest~

Tina