Random Pictures of Maya - How cute is she?

Maya's Day!

One year ago today we met Maya for the very first time in a care center in Addis Ababa. The past year has been such a blessing for all three of us as a family. Maya is a truly amazing little girl and to help celebrate the occasion we are throwing a party in her honor this week. The weather looks good, we have a food (both American and Ethiopian) and drinks planned, some games – all we need is friends and family to join us in what should be a great time. Be sure to stop by!

PS: It is also Maya's 18th month birthday today!

Funny Maya moment

I just have to share with all of you.  Yesterday while changing Maya's diaper, Maya sneezed two times.  Every time Maya sneezes she has a stunned look on her face.  Her eyes get big and she just looks at you.  Normally when she sneezes, we say "Bless you".  Well yesterday after Maya finished with her stunned look, she looked at me and said "Bless you".  I almost died right there.  She said it as clear as day.  Since then she has said it a few times as both she and I have been sneezing this weekend. 

A Year Ago Today

One year ago, my mother dropped Dave and I off at the airport.  We had 8 full bags of luggage with us and one picture of our precious baby girl.  We left on a Wednesday and flew into Washington DC.  We had decided to spend a day touring around our capital city.  Friday came and we met four other couples at the gate early in the morning.  It was easy to spot them as we were the only non-Ethiopians waiting to board the plane.  I remember relief setting in as I was so nervous and had no idea what to expect.  Dave did a great job following the message board but not me.  I was nervous, anxious, excited, and scared.  I knew that this trip would change my life forever and it did.  We are the luckiest two people I know.  God had a plan for us and our plan was to bring Maya home.  She is the best little girl ever and we are so blessed. 

Below is Maya's referral photo.  This was the only picture we had of Maya before our trip.  The next picture is a more recent one.  She has grown so much in the last year.

We love you Maya!!!

Row Row Row Your Boat

Maya's favorite game, she will play with anyone who she can talk into it, including her baby...

 

Move your neck according to the music

- Ethiopian Proverb 

 

 

 

I guess you could say she is in training to be an Ethiopian Dancer!

We all need love...

The Dave Thomas Foundation put out this video. I encourage you to think about how you can make a difference in an orphan's life - even if it just to pray that every child around the world will have the opportunity to be loved.