Our Family Day Anniversary

Today

One year ago


One year ago

A whole year ago today Andrew and Kathlena became Shiflet's. It seems a lifetime ago. They have changed so much that I hardly recognize them from their pictures only a year ago.
Andrew is so bright, inquisitive and helpful. He has a generous heart and is very protective of his sisters...especially Kathlena. They still have their squabbles like all siblings, but he always thinks of her when he gets a treat and is ready to share. Andrew can count to 100 and is on the verge of reading...quite amazing considering he has had to learn so much with one eye patched mostly and a whole new language. He loves to see how things work and to build his ideas in the wood shop with his daddy. He is also quite the little theologian as he has memorized over 50 questions in the Catechism For Young Children. He has an incredible capacity to memorize songs also. Some of his favorites are In Christ Alone, Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent, Psalm 1, and Jesus Thank You to name a few. He also has a real aptitude for music particularly the piano. He has learned to play by ear. He can play parts of Beethoven's 5th symphony and the songs he hears Emily and J.Michael practice. Despite a challenging year with his vision he has coped and excelled in all areas. We are so glad to have his surgery soon and he is too. We have so many more experiences and opportunities to grow together in the upcoming year. We love you our sweet son.

Kathlena is a completely different child from the frail little girl we brought home a year ago. She is beyond blossoming. I could never have imagined in those early months that we would be where we are now. She is so smart, happy, beautiful, strong, confident, and just a joy to be around. I look at her early pictures now and really see her sadness. I didn't see it then, but after seeing her now it is so apparent how her former life had robbed her of her joy and being the vibrant little girl that she is. Praise the Lord for freeing her and giving her to us. She is mommy's little helper and loves to play with her brothers. She can keep up with them whether it is on bikes, running and playing in the yard or playing nerf or cap guns. She is quite the rough and tumble and loves every minute of being outside. She has even gotten a little tan, but then living in Houston how could she avoid it! Her growth has been phenomenal as she has gained over 10 pounds and grown 2 1/2 inches in a year. Her hair is long, thicker and curly...just beautiful! I have to say that her smile and that laugh can make the sourest attitude melt away. She is our sweet little cutie whom we love so much and we are so blessed to be her mommy and daddy.