Today, we kicked off our month of July birthdays with Ruby's favorite furry companion, Kate Bear! Three years ago, Kate Bear was a gift given to Ruby by Kim and Kate when they came to visit us over the 4th of July in 2008. Kate Bear, or "Teddy" as Ruby has nicknamed her friend has traveled miles with Ruby... Let's just say she is very very loved! Ruby has been asking me for days if we could have a birthday party for "Teddy" this year... So, this morning we baked her a cake, and celebrated her little pal... We threw a little party in the "garden suite!"

Kate Bear and Sienna's bear, Walnut!

The birthday girl!!

The other loved bear at our house, "Walnut"

Two Loyal Friends!

I think Ruby made the wish...

The sweet party guests!

As I type this, Ruby is sound asleep with her arm tightly wrapped around her sweet bear and her very loved blanket too... Thanks Kim and Kate for such a perfect gift three yeas ago!

Happy 4th of July Everyone!!!! Since Ruby was the only one up for some Independence Day pics this morning, I chose to do a little look back of her! So many sweet photos since she became a U.S. Citizen in 2007! We are up at the cabin enjoying a gorgeous weekend! Have a wonderful and safe holiday!

2010

2009

Ruby & Kate - 2008

2007

Last night I received an email I had been praying would come. It was from a beautiful 17 year old girl who just got back from volunteering at Emme Jade's orphanage. Keaton is a "Yangster" too, and she was adopted as a baby from Yangzhou. She and her Mom traveled back to China to re-introduce Keaton to her beginnings.

Keaton blessed Jeff and I with not only pictures of our new daughter, but with insight to her life in Yangzhou. We learned more about her personality, about what she does each day, about where she sleeps and eats, and about her routine at the orphanage. Keaton is an articulate and special young lady, and I have no doubt she stole many little hearts when she was there!

I pray that I have the opportunity to travel back to China with all of our girls one day on a trip where we can bless the children waiting for their forever families! Thank you Keaton, and Mrs. G for loving on our little girl and her friends! This is a priceless gift you have given us!

During our week in Chicago, I had the privilege of doing a photo shoot with Kit. This was such a blessing for me! Around this time last year two friends sent me the referral photo of an adorable little girl dressed in a hat and precious outfit that was on the shared list. Her special need was one that was dear to my heart. I immediately sent her photo to my sweet friend, ~B. In November this very special little girl came home to be a daughter and a sister in this precious family. I am so thankful that God has allowed me to be part of her forever family story! Kit is one special little girl, and I loved the opportunity to spend time with her behind my lens!! Thank you Bridget for asking me to do this!!