Well, we have come to our 1st year Gotcha Day! We have been together for 365 days, and it seems like we've just always been together as a family of 5. You are so loved by all of us, and you reciprocate our love so well.
Your daddy and I were just looking back on some videos taken on our first day together. You were SO little ;) And, oh so cute! I remember holding you and trying to wake you up from your nap so we could get our official family picture. Daddy had to take over because I was having no luck! You had sausage on your mouth from the train ride, and your ayi's said you ate the whole entire way! Sophie, you are still a great eater ;)
Once back to our room that first day, you loved the puffs we had for you and the Hello Kitty balloon we had bought earlier that morning at the supermarket. Later that night, we Skyped and you were able to meet your ge-ge's, Mimi and Papa, and Grandma. They ALL fell in love with you instantly!
When we finally got home, you met your brothers and it was like you already had a bond. Maybe because we Skyped each day...not sure, but it was evident you fit right in! You are super sweet to both Connor and Hayden, kissing them each night before bedtime. You hold their hands, laugh together, and occasionally show them who's boss!
We know you are one smart little girl, too. You picked up on English even when we were in China. We would say to "watch your step," and you would look down before stepping. It was amazing! Sophie, you started preschool at Scottsdale Learning Center about 3 months after coming home. Although nervous at first, you have done great there! You are speaking so great, you have made many friendships, and you do excellent art projects and homework ;) Your teachers just adore you! When you turned 2 years old, you were able to say your ABCs, count to 14, sing LOTS of songs and spell your name. Yep, spell your name. About a month after you turned 2, we were at Kohl's. You looked up at the sign and told me there was an S and an O for Sophie in the Kohl's sign! It was amazing how far you had come in just a short time.
Some of your favorite things to do are to play tea party, play with your babies and kitchen set, and play whatever the boys are doing. You love the Disney movie Frozen and listen to the CD as you go to bed at night. You love going out front and playing with Addison, riding bikes, talking walks, playing at the park and blowing bubbles. Your favorite food to eat is chicken, rice and broccoli!
Your attachment to us could not be any better! You are loving, kind and fun-spirited. When we say, "ouch!" you are quick to ask if we are okay. You are always telling us, " I wuv you." You love to laugh, make funny faces with your tongue and cuddle with both of your blankies. You are a beautiful little girl, inside and out.
Within the first year you have been home, we have traveled so far. We traveled throughout China, we have visited our family in both Cincinnati and Chicago, we have skied in Vail, and soon we are headed to the beach in San Diego. I hope you are developing a love of travel, as we hope to travel back to China with you when the time is right. I.Can't.Wait!
We are so proud to call you our daughter. You warm our hearts and brighten our days! Your brothers adore you, even if they may say otherwise ;) Hayden will still occasionally ask if you are staying with us forever! He smiles big when we tell him that you are here to stay ;) We love you, Soph. We are so lucky to have you as a part of our family~
1st Year Gotcha Day Pictures~ April 28th, 2015
