Two Lovely Pizzas Sitting in An Oven

Anastasia and Paul are our first biological siblings that we have adopted. Since we didn't have experience with adopting siblings before, I did entertain the thought that perhaps they would band together with an us against them mentality. I couldn't have been more wrong-- they have totally accepted all of us, and have even gone their own separate ways to do their own thing at times-- and yet they have stayed close just as I expected. This has been incredible to watch because they have been an example of balance to me---- Hmm, imagine that-- kids teaching parents a thing or two.

In the past day or two I have noticed how both of them are calling each other Paul and Anastasia. After taking the time to explain how Alex had been Alosha and Dennis had been Denise a light bulb went off for them and that was that. Still-- there is the occasional slip with a Pasha or Nastya by anyone of us-- but not too often.

I am thrilled with how much they have blossomed in the last month. They have incredible smiles and lovely personalities. Up until last night Paul would turn and give me his cheek every time I went to kiss him goodnight. I didn't mention anything about it but it is something I noticed. I knew he watched me kiss all of his brothers and sisters goodnight with a quick peck on the lips so last night I asked him to look at me when I kissed him goodnight and he kissed me back shyly. I told him thank you, hugged him playfully, and tucked him in. Tonight was the same-- another big step in our attachment as Mother and son.

Anastasia saw Annalyn and I taking pictures yesterday and she asked if I would take pictures of her. Of course-- just what I was waiting for her to ask!

And soon after, Paul saw me taking pictures of Anastasia and didn't want to be left out.

They are too funny!

The day that Anastasia first swam in the deep end by herself she was only willing to do it twice and then she was done. Unlike Paul who began swimming mostly in the deep end once he knew he could swim, Anastasia went back to the shallow end-- where she was obviously more comfortable. I didn't have time to grab the camera that day. The next day I insisted she practice at least once and was happy to see when she practiced three times but still not enough time for me to grab the camera. Today she practiced once by herself knowing that I wanted a picture of her and then again with me swimming next to her. Each time she swims I see that her breathing is calmer and calmer like she is becoming less scared and more confident in her ability. Seeing this picture brought a huge smile to her face.

Tonight we made homemade pizza. Anna was amazed how much the yeast grew in the warm water. They girls were excited how the dough tripled in size before we rolled it out.

Adam had worship practice at church so he was the first to make his pizza after he saw me roll out one for Alex and Dennis to share.

We had lots of fresh toppings to add to our pizzas and not one of them turned out the same!

Each of the kids enjoyed making their own and learned a lesson in patience as we cooked only three at a time.

After Alex ate his pizza, he ate a serving of leftover Shrimp Pasta. What a big boy!

Both Sveta and Andrew commented how this was the best pizza they have ever eaten!

Last but not least-- Mom and Dad's pizza cooking in the oven together. How sweet. Can you tell which one is the girl pizza?