Carissa's First Trick or Treating

We took Carissa downtown Grand Haven for her first Trick or Treating experience. We went with some of our homeschool friends this year. We have had this tradition of visiting the downtown stores since Ryan was Carissa's age and have only missed one year. When Ryan was in 2nd grade, we were living in West Virginia that year. Later she had fun visiting a few of the neighbors but mostly helping mom pass out candy. Ryan decided to be a dog house (or pretend he was "in the dog house"). People kept asking him what he did to deserve being "in the dog house". He had fun with that, but the costume was a bit large for some of the doors. He and his dad painted Carissa's car seat box and then he and I embellished it a little. We decided Carissa was going to be a lady bug this year, since ladybugs are a sign of good luck in China. Had to keep up with the Chinese theme this year!!

Pictures of Baby Dedication

Baby Dedication on October 26, 2008

On October 26th, we had a baby dedication at our church along with three other couples. Carissa, of course, being the oldest and the other two born just a few months ago. Pastor Eric made a point to share each of the meanings of her Chinese name, given by the orphanage, and her American name, given by us. She is truly a blessing and a Gift from God. I would do it over ten times if I could. We couldn't imagine our life without her. Pictures are post above. I am having trouble downloading them directly onto the blogger sight so I have to send it through my e-mail.

Visit to the Pediatric Cardiologist

We visited the Pediatric Cardiologist a week ago. She had an EKG done then the next step would have been a Sonogram. The Dr. looked at her EKG and listened very closely to her heart and did not even hear a slight murmur or anything that would alarm him to do further testing. Her EKG was also completely normal. The medical report that we received (done when she was about 3 1/2 months old) said that she was diagnosed with a shunt at Interatrial septum and for us to recheck at one year.

We are happy to say that this is not even an issue and her heart is completely health and normal.

Pictures will be posted soon!!