Yipeeee, Tati's 3!!!

Here she is... the beautiful birthday girl! Tatiana Elizabeth turned 3 today. WHAT a difference a year makes. Before I get to that, here is a quick snapshot of today.

Little T woke in new jammies sent Gramma and Grampa. Very fitting for the upcoming Halloween week!

... opened presents from mama! And had a party! More pictures later... but this is a big week for anniversaries and events!

A year ago today I filed my intent to adopt a little girl in Artem, Russia. It was the end of a whirlwind week and I was exhausted, excited and ready to start my life with this gorgeous child. It also happened to be her birthday. She was turning two. While I was overjoyed at our future together as mama and child, I was saddened that yet again she wouldn't have a special day. But it was so much more than that. As much as her caretakers loved her and cared for her - it isn't the same as parental love. You can easily start to think of all the things she was missing above and beyond a cake and ice cream.

I visited her with a balloon, some treats for her groupa, a teddy bear, and some clothes. One outfit she has on in her picture below. It was so hard to leave her but I knew I'd be back - and this time we'd be together for good.

A year later she has changed my life as much as hers has changed. She's an amazing, happy, sweet girl and I am so thankful that we were matched - even by crazy twist of fate - together. She's come so far this year, I love watching her personality emerge.

Thank you to all our friends and family who have supported and cheered us on this year. Your love and support means the world to us!!