Well its been 3 months since I last updated our blog and we have squeezed a lot into that 3 months! The most important event of the last 3 months was our trip to China in December to bring Ruby home. Mike, myself, and 7 of our 9 (I can't believe that number...) children spent 2 wonderful weeks in China. On the trip were Lauren(21), Ciara(10), Hunter(9), Kai(5), Sophie(4), Holly(3) and we were joined on day 2 by Ruby(7). Missing on this trip were Sean(19) and Catherine(14), but luckily both have been to China on our previous adoption trips so they have been through this life changing experience. I simply cannot find words to describe what a blessing Ruby has been to our family. She is a truly remarkable child who we are in awe of, and we feel honored to be her parents. Ruby has been through a lot in her 7 years, more then a child of her age should have had to deal with, yet she is a ray of sunshine and has an amazing spirit. Ruby is smart, has a great sense of humor, and has jumped into our family with both feet and landed firmly right in the middle! We all adore her and feel SO LUCKY to be her family! Here are a few pictures to give you a glimpse into our trip to China.

Granny "O" and Ruby, they share a special bond.

On the Great Wall of China!!!

The famous "Red Couch"picture at the White Swan in Guangzhou

In the mama kangaroo's pouch at the Guangzhou Wildlife Park

Ruby and her teachers at the Nanjing orphanage. Ruby was very much a favorite there and these wonderful teachers cried many tears as they said goodbye to her. We are so grateful to them!

The Gang at the Peacock Park in Nanjing

First picture of Ruby with Mom and Kai

The moment we met Ruby!