“Mama, TinkerBell so nice, she help everyone!” |
She didn’t see her costume until she got home from school today, I was actually responsible and ordered it weeks ago, she was ecstatic. This was Maria’s first ever Halloween. When we were explaining to Maria what you do on Halloween she just stared at us in shock like, ‘You crazy, genius Americans!!”
Bob and Bonnie were nice enough to let us trick or treat at their house, they were even ready with dinner. Elijah wasted no time.
![]() |
Sheesh! This kid is cute! |
![]() |
Had time to get a little golfing in before our friends arrived. |
![]() |
Changed the mood lighting |
![]() |
Jumped up and down in joy |
“Mom!!” Maria told me. “We don’t have anything like this in Russia! No dressy-up, no candy! THIS AMAZING!!! I no want to live in Russia ever…just like, sit inside, everyday. Do nothing…
Trick or treating was the most fun ever. Maria led the little kids up to each house,
“TRICK OR TREAT!!!! THANK YOU!!! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!”
I think the kids couldn’t even quite believe what was really happening…so much candy.

Comments on this entry are closed.
Gah. Maria’s words about Russia totally choked me up. Zenya doesn’t have the vocabulary yet but I’m sure if she did, she would say the same thing. We went out and rocked her first Halloween too and it was the best. Happy Halloween!
She was DARLING!!! What an angel!
How you have opened up your home and life to Maria and Elijah is just so awe inspiring (I don’t believe that those words are the powerful ones I am looking for). You are truly amazing people and even though we don’t celebrate Halloween here in Australia that much your story has brought tears to my eyes. Congratulations to you and Finley for the love that you have brought to these children. May God bless you all.
Thank you, Louise! <3
i love this. especially that last, dreamy picture!
Gosh your kids make me cry with happiness for them!
This Gramma’s heart bursts with joy… and pride (in a good way) ! 🙂
It’s almost like a dream. Is Maria always this wonderful?
The.best.ever!!!! Childhood restored!!
Totally, right? I feel like that, too
Such fun! Awesome costumes. 🙂
Aaaaand, my heart melts again.
Just amazing to read. Thank You 🙂
Whenever I look at pictures of Elijah I think of the old picture of him sitting in his orphanage crib looking so so sad. The transformation is UNBELIEVABLE. You are doing an amazing job – doesn’t even look like the same kid!