One year ago today, Boo legally became a part of our family. The courts finally recognized what we knew all along, that Boo belonged with us.

This past year has been a year of transition for us. We moved to another state, near the ocean. Snuggle Bug and Boo entered into a Montessori school (Snuggle Bug is now in 1st grade, Boo is still preschool until next year). Oronozo started a new job.

It's taken some time to get settled and we're certainly missing family and friends from back home, but we're happy hear near the ocean.

Live is peaceful in this small, costal town. The people are friendly and we've managed to make some good friends during the past year. Having children in school helps make those connections.

We now own a 27' sailboat, so we are out on the water a lot. Just yesterday we had a dolphin swimming next to our boat for quite a while, popping up frequently, as if to say, "Hi!" That was an amazing experience to see a dolphin up close and personal.

We had friends from back home come visit this summer and they mentioned how much more relaxed we look. The easing of stress will do that for you.

It's been wonderful just to be a family without the drama and the constant barrage of contact from the foster care system.

Boo is doing great! She's growing tall, she's getting smarter every day. She's sassy and outgoing. She's a beautiful child. In short, she's perfect!

We haven't heard anything from her birthmother since the day she voluntarily relinquished her rights during a phone conference with us last year. There's been no response from the picture and letter update that I sent out so I'm not sure she even received it. I'll try again soon.

So, that's what's going on with us. Hope all is well with you!