Our Daughter Lina

It was just three years ago today that we met our sweet Lina.

It’s simply amazing how much she has grown and changed, and yet how much of her huge personality was packed into that little bundle that was handed to us on that happy day in Nanchang.

Here are some snaps from this year’s pumpkin hunt. We joined Stephanie’s sister and her family at the pumpkin patch to cut some real live pumpkins (and pick up a few gourds for fun).

Check it, people. Though she never cared much for her fancy German tricycle, the kid kicks butt on her Specialized “Hotrock.” She flies through the neighborhood squealing with delight, Mama running behind her. Ahh, summertime.

Thanks for the nudge. Here you go!

We have a wading pool in walking distance and Stephanie and Lina have been taking full advantage of that during our recent heat wave. But last Saturday we pulled out all the stops and drove all the way to downtown Ballard (about a mile) for some aquatic fun at a different park.

She’s talking so well these days that I have to really think about this. But here are some of my favorites. . .

pee-nee (penguin)

dee mee (excuse me)

poo-tew (computer)

or-gee (orange)

shah-wor (flower)

kutch-un (kitchen)

da doo (thank you)

yets (let’s)

ee-meey (oatmeal)

Ohmygod, I can’t think of any more. How about some of my favorite Lina-isms:

“I’m not likin’ that.”

“Put this off.” (Instead of “take this off.”)

“Dude! GO!” (Often said in traffic. No idea where she picked that one up.)

“Lily is smelly.” (Often true.)

“I love you and I like you.” (My personal favorite.)