7 Years

7 years ago today I was granted my first treasured gift, Kailei June Shao Lemis. She has been the light of my life. She is growing up so quickly and I am proud of the person she is, a scholar, a musician and a dancer. She is beautiful inside and out! I love her with all my heart.

Meilin's Birthday Party

My birthday girl danced her heart out today at her birthday party. Good friends, good food and beautiful China babies! Who could ask for a better day!!

Happy Birthday Meilin Rose

Dear Meilin Rose,

Tomorrow is your second birthday but your first one home. Even though I was not there with you on your first, you were with me in spirit, growing in my heart. As I stare at the first photo I ever received of you, I knew then that you were mine, the baby I had been waiting for, the one God had planned for me right along. I have seen those sorrowful eyes brighten and sparkle and witnessed your frown turn into a smile that melts my heart. Your once guarded soul has opened up and you give and receive love so readily. You have a forever family now. We will be here for you always. You will never celebrate a birthday alone again. I love you my sweet baby girl.

Love,

Mama

Special Christmas

It was Meilin and Gavin's first Christmas! The big kids were so excited on Christmas Eve. Grandma and Papa always buy them matching jammies. It is the only present they can open on Christmas Eve. Kailei didn't fall alseep until 10:30 and was up at 6:00. Meilin took two, two hour naps today at my parent's house. At first she didn't know what to think of all the gifts but by tonight, she was an old pro! Now I need to figure out where I am going to put all these new toys and more presents to come since Meilin's birthday is Dec. 30! Lucky, lucky girls! We are so fortunate to be blessed with a wonderful family that all live nearby! It makes the holidays so special.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Letter From Santa

Kailei and Meilin received letters from Santa today. They were personalized with important information. Kailei read the letter giggling the entire time. Thanks Williams family!!

Santa's Village

The girls and I spent the late afternoon at Santa's Village. The wait outside was about 45 minutes. Not too bad considering that some wait up to 3 hours to get in! Once inside the girls met with Santa. Meilin still wants nothing to do with the jolly fellow. Kailei on the other hand could have sat for hours discussing her list. Next we proceeded to visit with Mrs. Claus. She was baking cookies and handing out candy canes. Meilin liked her. My favorite part is the toy workshop. The elves are busy at work on making toys. A fire roars in the fireplace and there are toys everywhere! Outside is Santa's sleigh and his reindeer. Meilin wanted to pet each and every one. She is my animal lover. The joy of the holidays warm my heart especially when shared with loved ones.