What a Difference a Year Makes

Claire's first Family Day!

A year ago today, Claire officially became our daughter. Of course, we felt like Mom and Dad from the moment we laid eyes on her, but today is the day Kazakhstan considers her officially ours. That whole "legally ours" bit was sort of a necessary hurdle in order to get her out of the country.

In a year, Claire has gone from a nine-month-old baby who could hardly sit up to an energetic 21-month-old toddler who can outrun both of her parents and probably even some track stars. She's developed a legion of devoted fans (many who will be floored when they see that her mommy actually updated this site!) and can charm just about anyone she pleases with her big southern "hey!"

People often tell us that Claire is so lucky, and sure, she's got a good life, a ridiculous number of toys, and virtually unlimited access to Ritz crackers. But in the "luck lottery," Justin and I certainly came out on top. We were given the most amazing little girl, and not a day goes by when we don't look at each other and say, "Gosh, we are SO lucky she's ours."