Post Memorial Day Greetings

Memorial Day is a big deal in our family. It is the only time during the year that we get to taste Grandpa's Bar-B-Q Chicken. There are a lot of cooks out there, I happen to think that I am a pretty good one, but there is just something about Grandpa's "Chicken". We as a family have a very special place in our hearts for Memorial Day. Both our fathers (Deena and myself) served in the Navy, our oldest son was in the Navy, we still have a nephew who will make a career out of Submarines and our Sister in Laws brother is an Admiral. It is quite humbling to think that we are able to have an open picnic and even worship the way that we do because of the people who serve and have gone before us to insure our freedoms. The little princess was a huge hit as she was passed from Aunt and Uncle to cousin to Grandma to Grandpa and back to Mom and Dad. She made her first swipes at the ever important "Pinata" and finally to be given lessons in technique by big brother Matt. Moving on, she had her first Doctors check up yesterday and all in all passed with flying colors. They made an attempt to draw blood for tests and this was quite an ordeal. I could not do that on a regular basis as a nurse or doctor, even with the best of intentions in mind because it is just not any fun for anyone involved. After all the attempts and the sticks she was only able to produce one vial of blood so I think we are in for another round of "Blood-Letting" at some point. There were a lot of tears on everyones part. We are so blessed to have a Doctor that is going through the Adoption process and they have chosen China. She understands our concerns, she reassures us about Mongolian Spot and shares in the blessing of Gracie. She also happens to be Matthew's Doctor so she knows us pretty well. If she would see humans I would go to her!! Well I need to get ready to go to work. I think the Jet-Lag has pretty much gone by the way side as each of us had a day that we completely melted down this last week. More later! Oh and by the way she has cut two teeth, went on a semi-successful "adventure" yesterday in her running stroller and will be exposed to her first trip to Costco tonight! Life is good. On a serious note, please keep our birth mothers in your prayers, the nation of China, our missionaries and all the adoption workers and caregivers of these precious gifts from God. We are still the ones who have been blessed as the daily caos turns to praises of joy when we look into the eyes of our beautiful daughters. Now really, more later!!

Rick