These two… what a journey they’ve had in their first year together as mother and daughter. How far they’ve come (literally and metaphorically)! I hardly recognize that skinny little kid with the mohawk anymore…
It was the journey of three lifetimes (Nikki’s, Annie’s and mine) for all of us, which began with this lovely moment on June 20, 2016, when one person became a mother and another became that one’s daughter in Changsha, Hunan, China.
And we had such an adventure, traveling through China to Hong Kong, where we started and ended our journey, staying with Anne and John MacPherson, who lived in a spiffy high-rise complex with an incredible pool.
In the last year Annie has grown 5 inches and gained many pounds. Her hair has grown into Real Girl Hair, which is nice for one who so loves pink girlie stuff (check out her super-cool pink goggle glasses). She’s going to school, acing her spelling tests (in English!), doing well with her regular physical and speech therapy, has a new snazzy purple wheelchair… and she bowls! Oh, and she’s 8 now.
Annie Cardoza and her mommy are my forever heroes. I remain honored that I got to travel to China last year and watch them become a family a year ago today.
Happy Annie-versary, you two. Here’s to many more!
Güd wrtr 
They are heroes to all who are privileged to have folllowed their journey. And You! YOU! YOU!
Thanks, Hil. You, too, are my hero for so many reasons, not the least of which is reminding me that no matter what befalls us, we keep on keepin’ on.
I feel very privileged to be able to watch and vicariously experience Annie’s journey. What a difference a year makes. Annie is a real cutie! Love and hugs to you, Annie and Nikki 🙂
Thanks, Ms. Cora! It’s been fun to watch the two of them over the past year, too, through the tribulations and successes. They are amazing!
What an amazing journey for all three of you. They are so lucky they have a writer friend documenting this for them. Nice job, Jan.
Thanks, Carol! Nikki is herself a mighty fine writer–she’s just had her hands full, as you can imagine. I’m honored to be part of their lives and share their amazing-ness with others.