Zoos, Malls and Birth Families

A few weeks back, we left home early one Saturday morning to meet Kate's birth mom Lori, Lori's husband Tony, and their nearly 10 month old daughter Anneliese at the ZOO.  The last time we were at this zoo was before Karsten was born, so both kids were SO excited. 

We got there before Lori and her crew, so we went inside and waited near the seals. The girls loved it. 

And you know what I love? These three.  They are my favorite. 

After we all got to see each other for a few minutes, Kate took the map and decided to be our leader. The girl loves her maps. And she also likes being in charge. 

This is Kate and her half sister Anneliese. They really look so much alike. 

We tried to get a picture of all three girls. Anneliese was not a fan. Getting a picture of a 6 year old, a 3 year old and a 10 month old is no easy task!

We are thankful that Kate regularly gets to see and talk to her birth family!  

Then last weekend, we got to spend some time with Karsten's birth family!  We met at the mall and ate dinner together. Then we took the kids to the play area inside the mall and walked around a bit.  Sweet time together with Karsten's birth mom and her half siblings!

We are also so thankful that Karsten gets to have relationships with her birth family too!  When we were waiting for baby #2, one thing we specifically prayed for was that we would be able to have another wonderful open adoption.  Words can't express how grateful we are that this prayer was answered the way we hoped!  We love Miss Andrea and her kids!