under the magnolia tree

These girls (the little ones) all shared the first year of their lives together in the Jiang Cheng Orphanage.  This isn't the entire group but it was great that at least this many of us got together.  We all met in Branson, MO.  One of the families has timeshares there so we all got big beautiful condos to stay in and being in Branson, there was plenty to do!  We cut the 10 hour drive by stopping in St. Louis to pick up Nani to bring her with us! 

Magnolia didn't remember the girls especially since we missed last years reunion but she

 warmed up pretty quickly.  Here they are sharing their pancake breakfast together.  By the last night at the pizza party they were all like long lost friends. Here's Magnolia with Anna Grace (left) and her big sister Jenny (right).

 Maya (left) with Elise's big sister Natalie.

  We went to see the Chinese Acrobats which was absolutely fabulous.  Both Magnolia and George sat for two hours straight completely mesmerized.  Afterwards Magnolia and Ellie pose with some of the acrobats.

 Here's Magnolia and Anna Grace after the show.

 We also did "Ride the Ducks."  If you've never heard of this, it's a tour that goes on land AND water.  Driving full speed into water was a first!  When the driver asked who wanted to drive the boat, Magnolia stepped right up!

George and Magnolia back at our condo wearing their "quackers."  

It's amazing the ease that comes with reuniting with everyone, kids and parents alike.  We all shared an incredible experience together and it's so nice to come together and remember.  There were times when the girls were together that I felt so proud of them all for that first year of waiting.  Waiting to be loved forever.  Without a doubt they are so very cherished.  And no one has forgotten how lucky they are to be united with such amazing little souls.