The kids ventured out into the snow a couple days ago when we got one decent weather day= temps above 25 degrees. This is the first time Jude got to play in a “real snow.” We have taken him out in a couple dustings, but this was the real deal and he loved it. It was really fun to see the excitement on his face. Ava and Jesse enjoyed experiencing it with him. Making wonderful memories 🙂

Thank you for everyone who read the “After the Airport” blog and expressed that it helped you to understand where we are at.  She has an amazing way with words- we often struggle to find the words to explain this leg of the journey, so we are so thankful that she did it for us. Thanks Jen Hatmaker! I also heard from a couple of friends who said that her words  in the blog touched where they are at in life (not necessarily adoption related, either.) here are a couple of other fav posts from her, definitely worth the read!

http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2013/04/21/when-is-it-time-to-walk-away

http://jenhatmaker.com/blog/2014/01/07/relational-repair-for-the-difficult

In other news, I am currently working on Jude’s “Welcome Home” slideshow. It is already quite a labor of love, but I am really excited to finish it. It will be an important keepsake for him and we want it to tell his story for him to remember for years to come.  It’s been so interesting looking back at the photos of Gotcha Day and the days immediately after.  He has already changed so much in the 2 months we have had him, its really amazing what love can do.

Looks like we have another snow/cold day tomorrow and the kiddos are off school. Today’s day consisted of a big breakfast; a huge blanket fort (that took me 30 minutes to make, but only got about 10 minutes of play. What can ya do?); Lots of episodes of Garfield,  crafting, and an impromptu dance party. We will see what tomorrow brings! – Mary

 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Phil 4:8