What a Year!

It's been a little over a year since we first met Noah Manisa - and what a year it has been. "Babycakes" is as cuddly, loving and happy as ever. He's talking, running and playing pretty much all the time and just adores his brother.

And even Big Brother, Luke, has finally come around to realizing that having a constant playmate who adores you is really not a bad thing after all. He's also realized that Noah does in fact hit back and he is one strong boy!

Our Ethiopia trip was quite a long journey in many ways and we will never forget all the wonderful children and adults we met. I hope we get to return sooner rather than later (Luke & Noah do keep asking me to get a big sister....).

And most importantly, we just cannot imagine a life without Noah Manisa.

Brothers at the Park

Happy Father's Day!

Noah in the Movies

Here is a link to a wonderful video clip created by an adoptive family. I loved watching it because I recognized many of the children we met and then - I realized Noah was in the clip! While our visit to Ethiopia was intense and exhausting, I have such warm memories of all the children we met. Are we ready for another child?? I wish we could adopt them all.

Those Left Behind (Part One): http://www.wfaa.com/video/nspparent-index.html?nvid=367206

I don't post very often anymore, but I thought these pictures just say it all. I cannot believe that Noah has been home 4 months. For us, it feels like he has been with us forever.

I am amazed at how adaptable he has been and at how quick he is to learn and develop. He speaks a variety of words and loves reading books. He just loves music - particularly Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson (ok, that is MY influence) and is quick to smile and hug. I mentioned that he came home without being able to crawl - well now, he is running! He also has his own personality and is certainly not shy about expressing his opinions, particularly when his brother tries to take his toys.

Many times, when I put him to bed at night and I look into his eyes, I do feel like he knew all along that he was coming to us. I believe he had a very long journey to us, as we know he travelled far even within Ethiopia. But, I get a sense that he is now at peace. There is just something very calm and wise about our dear Noah Manisa.

Noah on the move

Today was an exciting day for Noah, as he figured out how to open doors! He is one active little boy. He's been home three months and when he first arrived, he could not crawl. Now, he is walking, climbing steps and trying to run. As you can imagine, I barely have time for anything!

His personality is starting to really develop. He is so friendly and remains so loving and cuddly. And he can roar like a dinosaur with the best of them! One thing he hates more than anything is to be stuck in the house while big brother is outside playing. As you can see from the pictures, he is doing his best to get out.

Easter

Here is Noah at an Easter Brunch. As you can see from his clean plate (and from his size),

Noah LOVES food.