First Fair with FLAIR!

As Karis' parents, we are responsible for her physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being... that's what we signed on for when we adopted her, in April 2011. Since that time, we have seen unbelievable growth in each of the three areas. Most recently was her participation in our county fair. Two big wins... first, for her 4-H rabbit project and second, winning a Guys and Gals Sheep Lead competition. In her very first year of participating, she won both competitions. We are so proud of her and hope that these contests help to build both self confidence and forever family fun! Feel free to double click on the photos to enlarge them. Hooray for Karis!!!

And to top it off... even brother and sister won their classes, as well! Three wins for three great kids!

Happy Birthday, America!

Another milestone! Karis celebrated her second Fourth of July! This is worth noting, because last summer, everything was so new to her, it was difficult for her to just "live" and "enjoy". In fact, there were times that she acted as if she had to move so fast, eat so fast, shop so fast... all because in her mind, there was the possibility she would be sent back to Russia. After a year's worth of routine, stability, and love, the very normal teenager slept in on the 4th, then, helped make holiday treats which included red, white, and blue fruit kabobs and an American flag cake. Then, it was time to head to our friends' pool party which has become an annual tradition. For each of these activities just mentioned, Karis knew what to expect, so the day was enjoyable for her. We have made big strides in a year's time. This summer has been wonderful compared to last, not that last summer was bad, it was just a time of adjustment for all of us, not to mention, I was still slightly traumatized from being held in Russia 21 days. I whole-heartedly believe God is rewarding us this summer, by allowing us to just enjoy our time... and each other! Happy Birthday, America... THE GREATEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!!!

Playing!

Last night, Evan went to a sleep-over at a friend's while the girls and I tried out our new pool, a birthday gift to the kids. This morning as we were reunited at Vacation Bible School, the girls told Evan all about the swimming adventure from last night. What kept coming out of their mouths was: "It was so fun, and mommy played with us!" "Evan, you would have loved it, we were fish, and mommy was the shark, and she pretended to eat us!" "It was the greatest night, because mommy was chasing us in the pool!" On and on they went, and the common excitement was that I had unexpectedly joined them in the water! Like most moms, I had a bazillion things to do... dinner dishes, laundry, watering the flowers and vegetable plants, etc. But, I decided to re-adjust my mind and... play! I usually don't play, I invite the kids' friends over so they can play with them, but last night, I actually played, and I haven't heard that much enthusiasm from Karis and Karrigan in a really long time. The truth is, they have each other, and they have friends, but their love for us, as their parents, far outweighs any other love. It is elevated beyond our imaginations, and we need to make it a priority to stop and remember that love and that bond. I am so glad I took an hour out of my night to just play, because the memories made in that short time, will resonate in their minds for many years to come.

Our Little Daredevil!

It's neat to see all of the different activities that connect our three kids. On any given day it's Karrigan and Karis painting their fingernails together. Another day it could be Evan and Karrigan playing Battleship. Today, it was Karis and Evan skateboarding together. Let me clarify, it was Evan teaching Karis how to skateboard for the very first time! I have to give her credit, at least she's trying! Please dear Lord, please no broken bones tonight... And finally the pro... EVO!

Butterflies and Babies

A few hours at Cincinnati's Krohn Conservatory, this time of year, brings smiles and... surprises! I was thrilled to capture this photo of Karrigan as a butterfly finally landed on her hand! Karis was determined that one would land on her hand, or perhaps she'd be able to lure it to her... she was successful! And then, there was Evan who was just enjoying the views! Without even trying... score! There is so much beauty in my world. Butterflies and my babies.

Happy Father's Day!

Just a little note about our day. We started our day off with a hearty breakfast for Kevin which included: bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwiches, cinnamon coffee cake, and fruit cocktail. Coffee, of course! Then, we headed to church, ran a few errands, then, it was time for lunch! We tried a "new to us" place... Pizza Tower. Delish! Then, we all came home and worked in the yard which is what the dad in our family wanted to do! The day was perfect, all because we were together. Kevin and Karrigan show off his Father's Day card! This is my dad and I in 1975... in good ol' Alabama!

Summer Bliss!

Summer is here, and we are at it FULL THROTTLE! Below are some photos of what we've been up to! Double click on the photos to enlarge... Karrigan turned 6 on June 1st! Karrigan completed her soccer season, as one of the leading scorers! She loved that her team color is her favorite color... PURPLE! We celebrated Karis being home ONE YEAR!!! We returned to America, from Russia, June 4th last year. Evan completed golf camp and won an award for best chipping! Karis went tubing for the first time, with friends. Pool time! Farm time! Mountain Dew time! (Thanks Uncle Steve!) 4-H project time! Reds time! Puppy time! VBS time! Baking time! Family time! (Giving massages as gifts!) Hot summer days... breezy summer nights... summer fun, we've just begun... memories we'll have for life! ~Emily Masters