This past week we went down to Lexington, KY, to the Shriner’s Hospital to pick up Leah’s new wheelchair.  We had gone down earlier in the year and they measured her for a new one.  At the time, she seemed a little unsure about replacing the wheelchair her orphanage gave her.  But once she got used to it, I think she liked the new one.  It is much better suited for her small frame and allows her to control it more easily than the big wheelchair we brought back from China.

That said, the kids have been looking forward to having TWO wheelchairs at the house so that they could have races with Leah.  Today was a beautiful spring day and it was the day that the festivities commenced.

The day began with a quick trip to the Cincinnati Zoo, a favorite of ours and a pretty economical place to take a family this large!  In fact, our membership was given to us by a wonderful lady who has been very generous with our family.  The girls took a little spin on the carousel and posed for Kelly. (Please note, this is the only iPhone picture in this post!  We are moving towards quality here…)

Once everyone returned home, the races began.  True to form, Brittany was the first to challenge Leah on the street.   She had her pit crew (Max) at the ready!

Thankfully, it was before (slightly) the 5:00 traffic in the neighborhood.  We were probably saved in that it was Good Friday and some people were off for the day.  The race began up hill with a turn at the top and then raced back down the hill.

I love the look of satisfaction on Leah’s face when she knows she is beating Brittany into the turn!

At the turn … well … rubbing IS racing…

The bystanders were mesmerized by the effort being put forth on the race track.

While some were irritated by the press that was covering the event.

Heet two was a head-to-head China event as Leah and Ali took to the course.

Ali used to be a little puny, but she has grown in muscle mass and gave Leah a good run for the money!

Ali is never one to shy away from a photo opportunity.

In the end, the victor of the day looked as if she had just stepped out of magazine shoot, as pretty as ever and not seeming to have broken a sweat.

Her family rejoiced in her victory!

While those who had to sit out because of previous mistakes they had made breaking rules could only look on in desire.

Nicholas took one of the losers on a consolation ride!!

Off to ice cream for everyone.  It was a good day. (One last iPhone photo.  Sometimes you can not beat convenience!)

Cameron