Happy Gotcha Day, Parker!

Two years ago today, a very scared and sick little guy took my hand and let me hold him for the first time.  He never cried, not even when we left the building with him and got in the van to go back to the hotel.  The only time he DID cry was when we gave him his first bath!  I still remember that day like it was yesterday.  After his bath, he took a little nap and I just watched him sleep, thinking how I couldn't believe that he was mine. Such sweet memories!

In two years, he's grown 4 inches and gained 6 pounds.  He is out going and loves to be the center of attention, but also has a tiny reserved side when he's not sure about some thing.  He loves our dog Lucy, but still doesn't like dogs any bigger than her.  He loves to play outside and ride his tricycle in the cul-de-sac.  He LOVES Jesus and loves to read stories about him.  He is very strong willed and has a stubborn streak at least a mile wide.  He is funny and serious at the same time.  He loves super heroes, but will tell you that GOD is the only real super hero! 

It's hard to believe he's only been with us for 2 years.  It seems like he's been here his whole life.  He's definitely given me a run for my money and made me question my parenting abilities on more than one occassion. 

Today, on this Thanksgiving morning, I give thanks that God whispered in my ear thatJanuary day I first saw his picture, "That's your little boy!" and that I listened.  Life wouldn't be the same with out our little ParkiePine!

Happy Gotcha Day, Parker!  We love you!!

LOA

We got our LOA today!  That means that China has reviewed our dossier (paperwork) and that we've met the requirements set forth by them to adopt MaryClaire!  Whew! 

We only have a few more steps to go before we can travel, but we still don't know when it will be.  We're still keeping our fingers crossed for an end of 2012 travel because we want that adoption credit on our taxes!  So far, it's not being renewed in 2013 so it would be great to get it!  If we don't travel by the end of December, then we'll most likely travel within the first few weeks of 2013!

Can I get a Hip! Hip! Hooray!