happy 2nd, Makaria!

Makaria is officially 2! Her birthday celebration started like this:



All 7 us, with all our luggage crammed into a van to head to the airport. While in the van, we sang the Chinese national anthem and lots of Chinese kid songs with our driver.





A few days after we landed, we ended up playing in the fountains at a nearby mall. She's getting so big. It's surreal to think she's been with us for a year already. We made her adoption final last year on her first birthday, while in Ethiopia. We got an email from one of her original nannies on her birthday. Makaria was so loved and cared for in her care center. It brings tears to my eyes to think of how much these nannies ministered to her.



We got to celebrate with Brad's side of the family. It was lots of fun introducing both Kesed and Makaria to family.





I will tell you, this girl is so wonderful. She sat and played with her seatbelt for an hour on the flight to the States. She's super chilled, funny, compassionate, loves to imitate and a pure joy to be around. God truly knit our family together. She's a perfect match with our other kids.





Here she is with her cousin. They are so cute together.





Happy Birthday, sweet girl! May the testimony of the Lord go forth as you grow. We pray that your joy will and glorify the Lord in the darkest of places. We love you.