Kena turns 2!

So our littlest, newest addition, Kena, turned 2 November 12th.  However it was her FIRST Birthday with us.  I knew it would feel different than our other children because usually my mind is flooded with memories of their entrance into this world for the very first time.  Don't get me wrong, the memory of the "Labor" of bringing her home and entering the US will forever be etched in my brain and heart.  So far we only have memories of the last couple of months when we first laid eyes on her at 19 months old.

I couldn't help but think about her mother who probably remembers the day very well.  I know I would.  Or maybe not, maybe she is trying to block it from her memory and pretend it never happened.  I had an opportunity to go for a long run the day before her birthday, by myself, and had time just to pray for her mother wherever she was.  That she would be at peace knowing Kena is in a good place and being taken care of the best way we know how...with Love.

The older two were off school for Veteran's Day which was perfect, so we headed to Raleigh to see Gigi (my mom).  Sorry Raleigh friends, Grandparents come first, but it was tempting to meet up with some of you.  We went for a walk on the Greenway, enjoyed pizza for lunch, and then had cake and presents.  Kena attempted to blow out the candles with help from her siblings, but didn't want a thing to do with the cake.  She grabbed her apple slices while we all dived right into her cake.  Sweets are still not her thing which is A-okay with me.

She wasn't sure about the presents and seemed a little overwhelmed, but by the evening when we opened presents back home, she was totally into it.

As for an update, we are now two months home and each day continues to be a surprise as far as how it goes.  She does seem to be more and more comfortable and routine is key.  She will now say "stop it" instead of screaming if one of her siblings is bothering her.  This is a big deal people, screaming gets old QUICK!  She loves to go on walks and bike rides.  I've learned mornings are not her thing and she's in good company with all girls in this family who are exactly the same way.  She instantly changes the minute we get in the car and start playing music.  It's fun to watch her move.  We were able to leave her with staff at the YMCA so I could work out and after crying just a minute she calms down and plays fine the rest of the time.  The staff know who she is and what to expect. I've also been able to leave her at church for the past two weeks thanks to great helpers.  Boy did I need to get back to church.  We are meant for corporate worship, Amen?   It helps Jay is dropped off at the same place and at the same time so she sees I'm leaving him as well, not just her.

A few pictures from her special day - I apologize, our camera lens is broken so these are from my phone.

A new helmet because by the 4th, the others have been abused

Listening to us sing Happy Birthday!

Oh and here is one from Halloween - I couldn't resist making her an M&M.  It was also Stacy's costume around that same age.  She stayed on my back in the Ergo as we trick-or-treated, but was thrilled to hand out her bucket to collect candy.  Then was great about saying "Thank You" and "Bye Bye".