School time!

On Monday night, we attended Open House at Harper's school.

She was a little shy at first, but quickly warmed up.

 

Harper wouldn't pose -- but I tried to sneak a quick picture with her teacher.

Today was Harper's first day of school.

She thought eating breakfast was more important than posing for pictures!

She was very giggly during breakfast.

Waiting for the bus, she looked so sad and scared.

But she was tough, and never shed a tear.

The teacher reported that she was very happy at school.

They sang songs, played with play-doh, and had pretzels for snack time.

Ms. Sara reported that Harper loved investigating in the science lab

and playing at the water table.

We celebrated her big day with dinner at her favorite restaurant-- Noodles & Co!

Two Years Together!

Exactly two years ago, Harper was placed in our arms.

She was so still and quiet.  She must have been so scared.

When I think back to the little girl in the Civil Affairs Office, I am awestruck at

the differences we see.  There are few quiet moments with Harper now.

She is constantly climbing, exploring, jumping, and giggling.

Over the past 2 years, Harper has blossomed into such a joyful little toddler who loves her family very much.  I cannot put into words how thrilled we are to have her in our family.  She has brought so much happiness, excitement, and spunk to our lives.

 To celebrate our 2 year Famliversary, we continued some traditions that

started on our first Gotcha Day anniversary.  We made a donation to

the children who remain at the Chao Zho City Children's Welfare Institute.

Clothes, toys, candy, and fruit were delivered on August 13.

We went to Build-A-Bear to adopt a new stuffed animal.

 Harper knew exactly which one she wanted.

 

She loved giving her new monkey a bath!

This year we went to Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline facility.

Harper jumped and jumped and jumped!

We ate Chinese food for lunch.

Later, we presented Harper with another charm for her Pandora bracelet.

It is a parents and child circle that symbolizes that our love is infinite

and our family will always be together.

Harper Grace, we love you more than words could ever say.

Our family is immeasurably blessed by you!