1st Gotcha Day Anniversary For Our Baby Boy!

I can’t believe it has already been a year since this day.The day they placed Dang Qiao in my arms and he became Samuel Qiao, our son. In a pink puffy coat and purple puffy pants!

I only had the slightest inkling of how our lives were changing. Of how amazing our little boy was. Sure, I knew immediately that he was sweet and loving. That he had a personality that attracted you to him. Expressive eyes that spoke what his mouth could not.

But I had no clue about how this small little child from the other side of the world would transform us with just his smile. What he would teach us about resiliency, strength and determination. How much we would love him.

Sam is our little soldier, taking on every challenge in his path with gusto. He’s the child whose cup is always half full. The boy who lights up any room he walks into. He immediately captures the hearts of everyone he meets.

We are the luckiest people in the world because we were chosen to be his parents. Not a day goes by that we don’t praise God for giving us this miracle of a child.

So how did Sam spend his 1st Gotcha Day anniversary?

Well, it started getting bundled up and playing in the season’s 1st snowfall.

And throwing the season’s first snowball!

Big sister Molly joined in all the fun.

Later, Sam moved inside to play with all of his Christmas gifts.This toy might be Sam’s favorite Christmas gift, but my favorite Christmas gift will always be Sam. Sure became ours the day after Christmas in China, but it was still Christmas Day here in the States.

For his Gotcha Day dinner we ordered Chinese food, which Sam still prefers to this day. He gives it his trademark thumbs up……and wink!

Then it was on to his Gotcha Day present. While in China last year, I purchased a small gift to give him on each anniversary of his adoption.

This year was the tradition Chinese Tiger hat. Perfect for our boy who was born in the year of the tiger.

Sam holding his referral picture. He’s grown up so much!

Then it was time to pose for some obligatory family pictures.

First up, a picture with Dad…

…Then Mom…

…and we can’t forget Sis!

Finally one last picture with both Mom and Dad.Forever in our heart, Forever our Son.

We love you Sam Qiao, and can’t wait to see all the wonderful things that Forever has in store for you!