Sunday, February 12, 2012

The Best! Birthday! Ever! (for the 2nd year)

Is it just me, or does six seem a lot older than five?


When Bryn was about four years old she asked me when she'd be able to have gum. I told her she could when she was six. Over the past couple of years she's checked with me countless times to make sure I've remembered and to be sure that six is still the magic age to have gum.

As soon as the excitement of Christmas was over she started to focus on her birthday and she reminded me almost daily about the gum. We had one particularly funny conversation about it a few weeks ago:
Mom, remember you said I could have gum when I turn six?
Yes, Bryn, I remember.
Can I have the first piece on my birthday, Mom?
Sure. But just because you can have gum when you're six doesn't mean you'll be able to chew gum everyday.
Oh, I know, it will only be on special days. So do you think I could have another piece when I turn seven?
She cracks me up. :)

Bryn had a great birthday. The Best! Birthday! Ever! according to her. She took cookies to school to share with her friends and they sang Happy Birthday; we went out for supper with her papa and cousin Jacey and the entire restaurant sang to her; she had cake and presents and cards and phone calls. And her party was still to come the next day. By the time bedtime came I didn't think she'd ever get to sleep she was so excited about her day and her upcoming party. And the joy...it would have put a smile on anybody's face to see the joy she felt over everything.

Thanks to everyone who came to help Bryn celebrate the Best Birthday Ever II.

Happy Birthday, Bryn, we love you!


First photo of my 6-year-old.

Presents after breakfast.

Gum!


I'm six!


Spinning the Birthday Prize Wheel at the restaurant.


More presents!

Bryn chose a ladybug cake this year.


Cutie bugs Bryn and Caia.



Best buddies.


Sunday, February 5, 2012

Five Years

Five years ago we became a family of three and the parents of a beautiful baby girl when we met Bryn in China. It was the most incredible day of our lives. Our time in China was magical and an amazing experience we shared with people who have become treasured family.

We've spent today remembering those first days as a family and counting our lucky stars for our beautiful Cai Xing who has changed from a tiny, frightened baby into an amazing little girl. She has brought more happiness into our lives than we ever thought possible and we love her more every day.

Happy Forever Family Day, Bryn, we love you. xxoo

















On our way home.