Empire Bluff Hike

We hiked this exact trail 3 years ago before kids.

For me, it was a blur.

I don't remember much about the hike

 My heart & mind was elsewhere.

Earlier that day, our adoption agency had emailed us & told us that Harper was severely burned.

At this point we didn't have a lot of details of how, when & where it happened.
We had a few tiny pictures on an old crappy cell phone.

We hiked to the boardwalk that overlooked Lake Michigan, but we couldn't enjoy the beauty.

Three years later we were gonna hike that bluff again, this time with our family.
I never imagined we would have 3 kids this time!

Hiking during naptime is not advised.

Can you see my biceps quivering?

 This one's for you Emily!

Harper lucked out & got to ride on the tallest guys shoulders!

It's crazy to think that only 3 years ago we were a family of 3!

More Michigan....

Esch Rd Beach

Another Beach Beauty

 Serious business happening here

Eating sand again...

Relaxing with Daddy

Hellooooo America

Three years ago, Harper became a U.S citizin.

We flew into Newark, NJ  on 9/11.

After the 15 hr flight from China, I brought some watermelon & a butter knife ( on accident ) off the plane.

Customs searched my bag & confiscated my watermelon!

I got away with the butter knife!
Tight security on 9/11...

U  S  A 

September 11 will always be a day our country will never forget.

Although many families are still grieving, this is a joyous day for our family.

Today, we honor those who live, die & fight for our country!
We are proud Americans!

Pierce Stocking Sunset

Evening sunsets overlooking Lake Michigan are breath taking.

H Family

Awkward Summer Family Photo

Notice M being a wiggle worm

Face first into the sand....not her first time eating sand!

Bria's such a supportive big sis!

Not as relaxing as our last trip three years ago!

2010

We both look more rested & less grey hair!

Empire Beach

More vacation photos....
Another beautiful beach we visited near Glen Arbor, MI

Getting buried by big sis

My lil mermaid

Melaina slowly adapted to walking in the sand