2008 Gao Family Reunion

We got together this year in Virginia for the girl's reunion. For those who don't know, when we went to China, there were four other families who adopted girls from the same agency we did, and all five girls were from the same orphanage and within a month or so in age. Since we're spread around the country, we're going to try to get together once a year so the girls can stay connected to each other. This year we went to Virginia and got together at the Stephenson's house. They were great hosts, and VERY committed to hosting our reunions. It ended up that the movers were coming to their house the next day to pack them up and move to Florida! We really appreciate all the work they went through to make sure the girls got together this year. Unfortunatley, two of the families were unable to attend. The Wells came back just a couple of months ago from their second trip to China to adopt Kaylyn. While we missed seeing them, we certainly understand the need to get some stability in their lives before undertaking a big trip again. The Markvas were also unable to attend, but we're hoping we can all get together next year in Florida.

The girls had a great time together. In the above picture, the girls are, from left to right, Lydia, Sydney and Lilly. It's amazing how much they've changed in the last year. There was very little time getting use to each other before they started playing together. They were so cute. They had a ball swimming in the lake and watching the dads ride Jet Skis. Lydia was even feeding Sydney grapes at one point! Sydney's usually a little shy until she gets to know people, but she didn't miss a beat with the girls. It was like they remembered each other from last year. Watching them play was really a lot of fun. It was great for the adults too. We got to catch up on what's going on with everyone, and it was a really nice time.

We're already looking forward to next year's trip to Florida!