Week 2 with kids Home

Sorry that I haven't posted in almost a week for those that are far away and want to see the kids. Actually, we haven't really been out in town much yet, so those that are close haven't probably seen the kids yet either. We had a great time with Grandma in town and then this week the kids also got to meet their Uncle Brad and spend time again with Aunt Ingrid, Kaia and Lola. I love seeing my family with the kids - they love them so much already too. The cousins had a fun time playing together and Lola(3yrs.) even tried speaking in Twi!! It was so cute; I wish I would have witnessed it, but I guess Lola heard Fia and Kwame talking to each other and she looked at them and said, "that's funny!" Then she started to speak to them in her version of Twi- so cute!!

I brought the youngest kids over to Seattle for a doctors appt. and also made an appt. for Fia to get her hair cut and done. I think she really liked it; after all, it was an Aveda Salon! I definitely won't be doing that too often, but it was very reasonably priced for a first good shampoo, hair cut, and style. The stylist also had me try doing things; so it was a bit of hands on learning. They loved the ferry ride over and in between appts., we went to go and meet Great Grandma Gwen. They loved meeting her and I think she loved hearing them sing 'Jesus Loves Me.' Hopefully we can spend more time with her soon.

Yesterday we had our first of three post placement meetings with our social worker and it went well. I didn't really know what to expect, but it was very laid back and she just wanted to meet the kids, hear about our travels, and witness our family in action. Hopefully there wasn't too much she was worried about!

I have really enjoyed this last week and a half with our new family of seven. Normal is a little different than it was before, but I sure love it- all the kids are really becoming a sibling unit and I think Daron and I have been a good team together. We got to go out already on a date too! When Mary was here, we went out on Valentine's after the kids were all in bed. It was so nice to go out and enjoy each other at a great, new little restaurant in town. I wasn't sure if we would feel up to leaving already, but it was really nice for Daron and I since we are used to getting a decent amount of time just for ourselves. We are so thankful that she was able to come and meet the kids and help out with meals at night. She told me to post this picture of her cooking- it didn't always go as smoothly as we would hope!!! I am sure she had at least two kids under her though, so it wasn't entirely her fault. :) Grandma also got to be here to see Ella perform some of her Norwegian dancing at a nursing home on Valentine's Day. She did a great job-it was my first time seeing her perform; what a cutie!

It has also been great to have Grandma Bev and Grandpa Gordy live near and be here to play with the kids and give the older three some extra special time right now when we are focusing more on the younger two. We are so blessed to have our family and friends love us through this wonderful process!