What a difference a few months make!

I wanted to share these two pictures.  The first one was taken around the middle of June when we went out to dinner for my sister-in-law's birthday.  The second was taken this weekend at the same place and I realized how much the boys are changing.  Their hair is growing out.  Their smiles are bigger.  They feel like they have always been with us.  We were able to manage them at dinner all by ourselves.  The family seated with us actually commented on how well-behaved they are and said that we "make it look easy"-- anyone who ate dinner with us in China with just the two boys-- could you imagine that ever happening???

Everyday gets a little better.  It was a huge adjustment and I don't think any of us realized how different it would be... but it is a good different and worth it all.  Our little asian invasion is the invasion of 4 little ones into our life and family.  They have captured our hearts and stolen our affections.  Our lives will never be the same... and I can't wait to see their futures!  They are amazing little blessings and we are so blessed to have them!

A few more differences:
1) I can blog because all the kids are asleep in their own beds!  (We may have visitors throughout the night, but this is still a huge change!)
2) Brandon smiled most of the day.  He asked to go to Chuck E Cheese and how can you say no when he can say it so well and smiles so big!  (And no I did not think to bring a camera-- glad Chuck E Cheese does have a few pics for us!)
3) Brandon lost quite a few teeth due to infection and decay.  He looks funny but he seems to be happier and not in pain!
4) Brayden is still the happy little guy, but he feels safe enough now to show us when he is angry too-- not very often- but every once in a while he is not smiling!
5) Lily and Brandon can have moments of being kind to one another.
6) Kylee is settling into the big sister role.  She is such a big help and likes having special time- like staying up a little later than everyone else.  Kylee is in big school by herself and loving it!
7) Lily did not cry this morning when she had to do her treatment.  She does not like it but she is handling it so much better.

Everyone is growing up.  Everyone is in preschool and loving the routine!  Mom is back teaching a few classes and seeing a few clients and supervises. For the first time mom can drop off and pick up everyday!  And when Dad is home it is even easier to care for everyone! We are really busy with baths and lunches to pack and all that--but it is doable and a few months ago I did not think it was possible.