Time flies...

It is hard to keep up with the blog!  I plan on updating it weekly, but it just never seems to happen.

So what is going on?

Let's see...

I am now the proud parent of an Eagle Scout!  We are so very proud of Ethan.  He has worked hard to earn this achievement.

All the kids are doing great in school/homeschool.  Ruth and Riley are enjoying preschool.  We've been to a few festivals and enjoyed some great weather and food.

Spencer continues to amaze us with his language.  He has even started telling us a little bit about China.  It is such a blessing to get a small glimpse into his life before us.  He is also doing some basic math and has learned all his colors.  Today, he read a book to me (he's heard it a couple of times and memorized most of the words).  Nonetheless, it was so cute to hear his little accent.

We have a busy week ahead.  Spencer has his sedated MRI, Devin has an ENT appointment, and Heidi has a birthday!  WOW!!!

Our little Ruthie has been home two years now.  That is so hard to believe! She continues to be a sweetheart and is talking so much.

Time for School and Tests

Well, school started today!  We were a little sad to see summer end, but we had a great one!

Ethan is a sophomore this year, and he has a tough schedule.

Devin (6th), Heidi (4th), Isabelle and Spencer (1st), and Riley (preschool) are all being homeschooled. Ruth is attending the early childhood center for preschool.

Today went great, but I am exhausted!!!!

Spencer finally had his Orthopedic appointment. The Dr. said that he is a puzzle. He has had several x-rays and a CT scan with no answers. He is now scheduled for a sedated MRI. We are hoping we will get some solid answers toward the end of September. He is still doing great. He is an amazing little boy with a great smile!

 

Happy 7th Birthday!

This last Weekend we celebrated Spencer's 7th Birthday!  He seemed to enjoy the entire day.
He received some clothes, money and a camera for his big day.  He loves to take pictures!!!!!!!
We also ate his favorite food - PIZZA.

We are still amazed at how quickly Spencer has transitioned into our family.  For the most part, he acts as though he has always been here.  He has a wonderful personality and always make us smile. His joy is contagious!  He is such a determined little guy, and we are so proud of how he always gives 100%.  We love him so much.

We are still waiting for an ortho appointment!  We should be getting x-rays in the next week or so (hopefully).

Busy, Busy, Busy

Just thought I would do a quick update!  We are all doing great.  Spencer continues to amaze us!  He is almost always smiling and laughing.  His favorite food has to be pizza, but hotdogs are a close second.  He cracks me up!!  He is starting to say a few more words and is very good at communicating without words.  We are still waiting for an orthopedic; however, he does not let his knee get in his way. 
Everyone else is doing great, too.  Ethan just finished his Eagle Scout project this last weekend, and Devin had his first job (watching a neighbor's dog).
Chris had a very relaxing Father's Day!  That made him very happy.  The kids are so blessed to have such a wonderful daddy!!!!!
Here are a few photos of the last week.

They are Home!

Chris, Ethan and Spencer arrived home Thursday evening!  It was such a wonderful homecoming, and we are thankful for everyone who shared the special event with us.  My favorite moment was when I picked him up.  He gave me a big hug and kissed me on the cheek!!

Spencer is doing better than I expected.  He has been sleeping through the night and eating most foods.  He acts like he has been home forever!  Seriously, it has been amazing. 

Here are more photos.  I will post more when time permits.

More China Photos

China and the Toothfairy

First of all, Isabelle lost her first tooth...teeth!  She lost her bottom two teeth within an hour of each other.  She was so brave and pulled them out herself!   One was lost in Toys*R*Us and the other in the van.  The toothfairy brought her $5!

The boys are still doing great in China.  They visited Shamian Island yesterday and had a great time.  Also, Spencer lost a tooth a few days ago.  The toothfairy gave him a gold coin.  Please pray that Spencer's passport will arrive on time for the Consulate appointment on Tuesday. It is being expedited from Changchun via Fed*Ex. We really don't want any delays!!! Here are a few more photos....