One Year

What happens in 1 year?  A lot!  Yesterday we celebrated 1 year with Eli and cannot believe how much this sweet little boy has grown.  When he was placed in our arms that January day, he was sick, very malnourished and had no light in his eyes.  He was timid and scared and did not smile or cry for a few days.  I can only imagine what was going on in his mind.  Who are these strange people?  Where am I?  What is going on?  What are they saying?
In 1 year, he has learned to walk, run, jump and do all of the things a toddler should.  He has grown taller and gained 15 pounds (he LOVES food)!  He started preschool and is in the process of potty training (and is doing great).  He has charmed just about everyone he meets.  He has gone from a baby bed to a big boy bed.  His speech has exploded recently and he has started talking in full sentences.  He announces "Home!" whenever we pull into our neighborhood.  He has a special bond with each of his siblings.  He loves to play anything his sister asks of him, including dress up.  He enjoys snuggling with Keenan and he loves being Aidan's buddy.  They adore him and I sometimes wonder what we would have done without him in our lives.  The answer is always, "I can't even imagine!"  He brings so much joy and laughter to our family.  He is rarely upset (unless you tell him "no" to food).  He likes playing with cars, trucks, trains ... and has quite the imagination.  He has the sweetest manners and is always saying thank-you and giving kisses when he knows someone is upset.  He is also mischievous and knows how to get out of being in trouble by flashing that precious smile which makes his eyes twinkle.  He does the cutest things like fake snoring as soon as you put him down to bed.  And he has the best belly laugh ever!  He is such a blessing to us all.  We are so grateful to be his parents.  He may not have been born to us but he was definitely born in our hearts.  Adoption rocks!  We love you Eli!

We celebrated by eating some great American-Chinese food.  Here are some pics from our celebration ...