Sharing our birthday

Helen sporting her Tiger Hat (thanks Allyson!) on her First Birthday.

Chinese Folklore - babies wear this hat on their one year birthday to catch all the heavenly goodness falling between the tiger's ears.

Yukking it up with Dad.

Yukking with mom.

On our birthday, I took Helen to Stew's work and the three of us had a nice lunch together. Later at home, we did the birthday cupcake thing (still poking through those photos for a good one - stay tuned) and opened cards and gifts. On Saturday, we had brunch out with friends. Have to say, my best birthday ever - sharing it with Helen!

My Uncle Roger and Aunt Connie visiting us in MN this past weekend.

Helen continues to do so well. She had her 12 month check-up last week and had grown almost 3 inches since her medical exam in China, putting her in the 56 percentile for height! The doctor was so happy with her progress that she said Helen is now within the normal range developmentally, as well. I have to admit, I got a little weepy (with joy) over how quickly she's caught up. She has amazed Stew and me every day but it meant so much to have the doctor confirm her progress!

Thanksgiving

Day after Thanksgiving at Grandpa Pokorny's.

Check it out - she's using a sippy cup!

With cousins Ashley, Brianna, Ellie and Elizabeth.

Posing with cousin Abby.

Playing with cousin Gabe.


Bonding with Grandpa Pokorny.

Giving herself a kiss.

Classic bath shot.

We had a great time in Iowa over Thanksgiving, spending a few days with my sister and her family and a few days with the Pokornys. Helen made the ride down with barely a peep - she slept and hung out for 4.5 hours! Couldn't believe it as she'd really been stuggling with sitting in her carseat. Once in Iowa, she napped and slept through the nights like a trooper. We're SO lucky she's a good sleeper. Was fun watching her take-in each new family member and a couple even managed to successfully hold her for a little bit without tears! Baby steps on that front, but making progress. She had fun playing with all her cousins and aunts, uncles, both regular and great, and grandpa. So many wonderful people! Really wish a few pictures from our time at my sister's house turned out, but alas, they didn't so we'll give it another try at Christmas.

Thursday is Helen and my birthday! Will post the obligatory baby with first birthday cake photos so stay tuned. Will be thinking of Helen's birth family on her big day. We hope they have some sense that she is well, happy, and surrounded by love.