Finally a Family of Five

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T21:13:00.000-08:00

My Loves

We frosted cookies this weekend.

Hope you all shared a little love this Valentines Day.

2012-02-08T19:52:00.000-08:00

Sophia

DOB: April 1999

SN: right hand polydactylism, Hep B

Sophia is a very good student. She is a good writer, takes initiative to learn and enjoys math. She is confident at school. Sophia is shy and somewhat introverted. She likes to be helpful to adults and children, she is clever and sensible, polite, honest and simply a lovely child. She currently lives in an orphanage.

Look at those BEAUTIFUL eyes!

____________________________________________

George - NO LONGER ON THE SHARED LIST

DOB: April 2008

SN: β- thalassemia

George is a shy little boy, His paper work states that he is introverted and shy and does not talk very much. Though the pictures tell me something different. He looks like a silly, playful little fellow. See for yourself.

He likes to sing himself to sleep at night. Oh to be a fly on the wall listening to that would be absolutely precious!

These kids are Special Focus children.

For full photo's and more info contact Agape Adoptions

2012-02-03T22:19:00.000-08:00

Larry

DOB: August 2000
SN: Albinism

Larry enjoys singing and dancing so much that he likes to perform for adults. School is important to him and it shows in his work. He is adored by his peers and nannies, he generally has a smile on his face and never looses his temper. He likes playing with his toy cars. Larry's dream is to be a bus driver when he grows up.

Now let's find this sweet boy his family.

________________________________________

Pete

DOB: August 2002

SN: Color Blind

Pete goes to a local school and is doing well. He is likes to jump at home (assuming this means jump rope) It is said that he is a lovely boy that gets a bit shy around strangers. He is helpful around the house with chores and always makes his bed in the morning.

These kids are Special Focus children.
For full photo's and more info contact Agape Adoptions

2012-02-03T08:42:00.000-08:00

Matt

DOB: March 2001

SN: Missing left leg

Matt is a smart little boy. He enjoys kindergarten, can count from 1-100, knows some English, loves leading the class in songs and generally likes to be a leader. At 4.5 Matt was given an artificial leg, after some practice he has learned to walk and feels just like all the other kids.

I just love his sweet smile and the joy he seems to have.

Cory

DOB: February 2003

SN: Right arm/hand and leg deformity

Cory is a deep sleeper and healthy eater. He is an energetic little fellow that likes to play with toys, his favorite is a ball. He can draw simple shapes and his favorite color is red.

Just look at those sweet cheeks don't they just need a mommy to kiss em!

.

These kids are Special Focus children.

For full photo's and more info contact Agape Adoptions

ADVOCATING!!!

2012-02-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

I am very excited!!!

I have been feeling this tug...no, NEED.

Need to do SOMETHING.

for the 163 Million Orphans.

So a good friend of mine who happens to have her own adoption agency, is letting me advocate for some kiddos, Chinese Kiddos.

We decided to start with some of the older boys. Really, just a starting place.

Sounds good to me.

This may turn into a new blog but for now I am staying close to home and using my family blog.

These sweet boys are all Chinese and on the Shared list. Special Focus.

Hoping with our efforts we can find some families for these Orphans.

Myriam and I at the White Swan -2008-

Yous see Myriam found my baby girl for me and I know first hand that she is GOOD at what she does.

I am off to look over these boys so I can start posting. In order to comply with CCW*A I will not be able to share an entire face. I hope to get creative.

Come back and check out these kids.

Happy Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T13:44:00.000-08:00

2012 Year of the Dragon

O.K., O.K., O.K. I know that is far to many pictures of my little firecracker. I just can't get enough of her cuteness.

SNOW!!!!

2012-01-15T13:19:00.000-08:00

Snow around here is SUPER exciting!!

We don't get it all that often. When we do, we get oh so HAPPY!

See for yourself . . . Lovin the Beauty

A perfect Sunday morning.

Favorite Sweatshirt Friday

2012-01-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

Today was dress up day at pre-school

It took some persuading by this sweet girly of mine.

You see, this little red Kai Lan sweatshirt is a size too small

I just would not want someones tummy ~~hanging out~~ getting cold

How could I say no to that precious smile

Let's just say I couldn't.

Refresh

2012-01-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

Just bought tickets to this

My heart just aches for the 147 million orphans. Like I think about it all the time. I NEED to do something just something other than feeling sad about it. I have had the privileged of volunteering for Love Without Boundaries over the last several months and I LOVE it. It makes me feel like a teeny tiny itty bitty piece of the puzzle.

I would love love love to adopt again and pray that it will happen someday but for now it is not in our cards.

Not sure what this conference has to do with being anymore a piece of the puzzle but it feels good to go and learn. Of course we still have a long road ahead with Naomi as she gets older and has more questions (might get some grand ideas at the conference)

The cool part about this conference is my hubby has a ticket too.

O.K.

I am totally rambling and non of this really goes together but it is my blog so hey

Hope you all have a great weekend.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-24T23:04:00.000-08:00

May your day be full of love and joy.

Nutcracker

2011-12-06T08:11:00.000-08:00

We have a tradition. My sister-in-law and I plan on taking each kid to the Nutcracker this year was Nathaniel's turn.

The problem was SIL went and had a baby the night before the ballet.

O.K not a problem cuz now I have a beautiful new niece.

So my sister filled in for her. and we had a good ol' time.

Tried to make it fun night with pizza before hand. Then off to the ballet.

In all honesty he got a bit bored with the snowflakes and fairies but once the soldiers started waving their swords and the guns fired he was all eyes and ears.

All in all we had a good time. The next morning my little man was doing ballet twirls on the kitchen floor.

I just got to hold my new niece

2011-12-02T15:02:00.000-08:00

and she is PERFECT!

see I told you. Absolutely perfect.

So happy that her mommy and daddy shared cuz I am kinda a baby hog.

It is going to be an extra special Christmas.

Pete's brother . . . one happy daddy

Gotcha Day

2011-11-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

Three years ago today I was given the most precious gift.

This morning I went back and read this post then this one and another and all of them in-between, my words were sparse but the memories oh the memories. And the tears just came and did not stop for quite a while.

Adoption is just amazing and beautiful completely unimaginable. Never in my wildest dreams would I have put our family together in this way only God could orchestrate such a miracle.

If any of you are pondering adoption I say take the leap the reward is AMAZING!

Fill Their Stockings

2011-11-21T08:59:00.000-08:00

Check out my sidebar a new button has appeared.

3 amazing ladies
3 amazing organizations
all supporting Orphans in China

Check it out "Fill Their Stockings"

HAPPY DONATING!!

Happy Birthday

2011-11-19T14:30:00.000-08:00

to my Hubby.

Every year we have a "Friends Thanksgiving" this year it happens to fall on Pete's birthday. We will be celebrating surrounded by friends. . . Sounds pretty good to me.

I feel pretty blessed to have this man in my life.

Anyone recognize this?

Hainan Air - Flight to Beijing.

3 years ago today on my hubby's birthday he drove me to the airport, kissed me goodbye, never again would we be a family of 4.

My sister, dad and I boarded a flight to China that forever changed our family.

Oh the memories!!!!

Can you tell we were just a little excited??

My Girly @ 104

2011-11-18T08:09:00.000-08:00

Naomi had a fever of 104 a couple of nights ago. Today no more fever but a cough and a run down little girl.

I hate to say it but it is kinda fun for this mamma.

She is snugly and can sit still for more than 2 seconds and her voice is a little horse so she is whispering.

You see my girl is an ON THE GO kinda gal and a bit LOUD most of the time.

A little break from the norm is kinda nice

especially when I get to hold and love on my girl. I always remember that there was a day that she did not have a mommy to just sit and hold her. I LOVE being this girls mommy It makes me happy.

Halloween in Pictures

2011-11-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

Just in case you can't quite tell who's pumpkin is what . . . Nathaniel made "Jump Rope Guy"
Zach 's is a mummy and Naomi made Hello Kitty

We had a bunch of neighbors over for a quick dinner before we all went trick-or-treating. At one point I counted 20 kids never counted the parents but all the kids had at least one parent most had two. We had a great time but I never got out my camera. You know kinda busy getting dinner on the table.

These pictures are from today. I tried to just forget about getting shots of the kids but it just did not seem right. I NEED them for history.

So here goes

My girl was an Fall Fairy, she never put on her costume yesterday. Too scary!!

Truth be told she really wanted to be a green apple. We went to the fabric store to get the supplies but when we got there this costume was 70% off . . . I was sold. I kinda "sold" her on it. This mamma does not know how to sew.

Look how beautiful she looks as an Autumn Fairy

Pirate Zach

ARGH!!

Ninja Nathaniel

I will be glad when it is over - Halloween

2011-10-27T18:45:00.000-07:00

You see this sweet little face

the poor thing is ABSOLUTELY terrified of Halloween - it is SCARY.

The pumpkins are fun, the not so scary Halloween books are good, the farm was great. . . other than that she is a mess.

She does not like Target - scary guys are there

Grocery store - today she cried when I told her we were going and had her head buried into me the most of the time.

She sticks to me like glue once it is dark outside, not just the same room but within a foot of me at all times.

My girly is a nervous nelly.

Bring on Thanksgiving.

Trying out . . . Jumpin Rope

2011-10-17T17:44:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday my Nathaniel tried out for the school jump rope team.

Sponsored by the American Heart Association, I kinda like that cause my boy is a heart baby.

I kept hearing things like "people try out for years and never make it" and "it is so hard to get on the team"

The "LIST" was posted today at 3:30. . . let's just say this mamma had a bit of a tummy ache.

Nathaniel . . . he played it cool.

He told me he did 40 double unders at tryouts with no misses on his routine.

This boy

He Did it

He made the team.

Oh GEESH I am so excited for him

Polka-Dots

2011-10-14T23:34:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love this girl.

Pumpkin Cookies

2011-10-11T15:13:00.000-07:00

It is starting to ~~look~~ feel like fall around here. Still waiting for the beautiful fall colors. Soon, I am sure of it.

Fall in Washington is BEAUTIFUL.

While we wait for the fall colors we thought we would make some of our favorite cookies.

Pumpkin Cookies

1 1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter
1 egg
1 cup pumpkin
1 tsp vanilla

Cream butter and sugar then combine egg, pumpkin and vanilla

Sift together dry ingredients
2 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp cinnamon

mix wet and dry ingredients

add 1 cup chocolate chips OR 1 cup raisins

drop spoonfuls onto cookie sheet
bake at 350 for 12-15 minutes

store them in an airtight container and they are even yummier the next day . . . kinda cake like.

The Farm

2011-10-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

This was Naomi's very first field trip. To the pumpkin patch

At first she played shy - She wanted me in the corn box with her, I have to say it was pretty cool a bit dusty but it felt good on the feet. Probably the closest thing to a spa that I will see for a while.

Old School pumps - love the red color

Petting the kitten

Can you guess what baby animal we were looking at here??? *

Simply FUN!

I just loved this Basset he ran this farm, I could tell - he demanded a seat on the hay ride and well he got it. Who could resist those eyes and ears? Not I

The hunt is on for the perfect pumpkin

She found it!

* 3 day old baby bunnies

Pre School

2011-09-26T07:33:00.000-07:00

She did it!! 2 weeks under her belt and only cried once. My girly is growing up.

I felt like a free mamma, not sure the last time I have been without children for that long. Figured I could get so much done. Turns out when your kid is in school for 2 hours and you drop off and pick up you are only left with enough time for a workout and shower and maybe a load of dishes.

My girl is doing well I think it is the perfect amount of time for her and that is what counts.

Proud of you Naomi Chu Yu

The Wedding

2011-09-22T09:43:00.000-07:00

Rehearsal dinner with a beautiful view

Zach took all the photos at the wedding - I was busy ~~worrying about the toast I had to give~~ doing the things you do when your sister gets married.

It was a glorious day

My sister made a BEAUTIFUL bride.

Nathaniel - what a handsome ring bearer

He made it down the isle

Naomi was the flower girl - Darling!! and Yes she also made it down the isle I think she only dropped one rose peddle but she did it quietly and oh so cute.

My sister and Dad heading down the isle

The drummer in the bad was the best man in our wedding. - We all danced the night away. It was a wonderful day.

I am so happy my sister found her Honey.

Birthday's

2011-09-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

Sunday September 4th was Naomi's 4th birthday.

Space Needle

Headed to the needle via monorail

Naomi LOVES her daddy and is so excited to be at the Space Needle . . . I may have to frame this for her room

My three waiting to go up to the top of the Needle

So high up - Looking at the amazing views of our beautiful city

Family Party

We were celebration my littlest people. Nathaniel's birthday is December 24th so we try and celebrate in the summer, a half birthday (I know a bit late).

The birthday girl and her big brother

She's 4 and so stinkin CUTE!!

We have so much exciting news in our family a new baby coming this winter. You should see one of the gifts that they gave Naomi . . .

Grandma and the 1/2 birthday boy

My sister, you may remember her she traveled with me to China. This is her fiance' . . . the wedding is on Friday and we are so excited.

My boy is loving all the Harry Potter gifts and I am loving his sweet little face and those little arms

The Cakes

Nathaniel wanted an ice cream cake. It was my first attempt at making one, chocolate cake with cookie dough ice cream and whipping cream on top.

Naomi wanted pink cake (champagne cake)

YeYe helped blow out the candles.

Thanks to Uncle Greg and Aunt Laurie these guys now reside on our outdoor fireplace. I reminded them that they will soon have a baby girl who may want random tacky thing :)

Truth of the matter as some how the story on how these pink dudes were chosen as a gift for Naomi puts a smile on my face.

P.S. Aunti Laurie - last time I asked these pink dudes were named Greg and Laurie

The Beach

2011-09-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

Naomi and I went to the beach, just her and I.

You know the boys are back at school, gosh my beach bag sure felt lighter. Anyway Naomi thought we went to dig in the sand and play but I had another agenda.

The beach, little white dress, beautiful daughter and my camera.

Before we got to the sand we spotted a train

Then we found a great little log

the wind was a blowin

and my girl was a smilin

She wants to go to the beach again. I guess we both had a good ol' time.

I have a Nikon D50 and my lens broke (I have been borrowing my very generous neighbors) I need to get a new lens. Any suggestions . . . the best bang for your buck????

This week I am joining

First Day of School 2011

2011-09-07T10:16:00.000-07:00

Zach is off to Middle School - 6th grade

Oh my!! this is such a big step . . . locker combinations, different class rooms to find, schedules to figure out, lunch in a huge school. He seemed pretty relaxed this morning when he left.

I had to shut my mouth when he came out wearing sweat shorts for the first day of school.

Nathaniel is off to second grade.

We met his teacher last night, his first male teacher. Pretty sure it is going to be a good year.

I took him to school, seems like the thing to do for the first day. After we found his line I was quickly dismissed . . . gotta love a confident boy.

P.S. I did not cry this year. The throat lump appeared for a few moments but it went away pretty fast.

Say it ain't so

2011-09-03T23:14:00.000-07:00

When I wake up on Sunday morning my BABY girl will turn 4.

Far to much for this mamma's heart to handle.

Please don't go

2011-08-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

Summer I am so not ready to say good bye - Come back I am begging you

15 Years Ago

2011-08-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

I married my best friend.

Today I feel blessed to still call him my best friend and partner in life. He is a great daddy, loves his babies . I could not ask for a better husband, I still get excited to see him when he gets home from work (and no not just because I have been home with 3 kids all day)

Love you Pete. . . even more than 15 years ago

My Boys

2011-08-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Zach is off to Boy Scout camp for an ENTIRE WEEK. This is a l-o-n-g time for this momma, we are on day 3 and I already miss him.

My littlest man is spending a few days with Grandma. Sheesh my house is a bit quiet.

Tomorrow Naomi and I are on a mission to find the perfect flower girl dress for her. Anyone have any ideas??? It needs to be white or a super pale pink, size 3T or 4T and CUTE.

3 Years Ago

2011-08-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

On August 13th 2008 we saw this sweet face for the very first time. I knew she was ours. The day I started falling in love with my Rao Chu Yu

Thank you to my friend Myriam for finding this sweet, fiesty, strong willed, beautiful daughter for us.

We are BLESSED

My Brave Girl

2011-08-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

It was a long day at Seattle Children's Hospital, so happy we did not have stay the night and so grateful that we have such an amazing hospital in our area.

waiting before the procedure . . . lookin CUTE!

Coloring with our friend Ali - she joined us because daddy could not get the day off of work.

getting all gowned up, she was a brave girl

thinking the red socks were pretty cool.

Naomi woke up very, very, very SAD from the procedure. Hospital protocol is no parents until the child is out of recovery (about an hour after) Well they called me back because Naomi was so upset. I could not get to her fast enough. Oh my was my heart breaking for her.

She is all smiles again. They wanted her to stay on her side for several hours. Try keeping Naomi in any one position for more than 2 seconds. Ha Ha!!! We gave up on that idea pretty quick.

Starting to get crazy silly

Pardon the Kai Lan panties

Gone CRAZY!!!

Naomi spent some time with the camera (trying to occupy her) She took this of Ali and I. You see Ali is an amazing friend in so many ways but yesterday she took a day off of work and spent it with us in the hospital. True friend I tell you.

Nurse Princess . . . no joke her name is Princess (she told us) Good name for a great nurse in a hospital for kids.

I think Naomi all in all enjoyed her day of getting just about everything she wanted with lots and lots of attention. Love my girl.

Tomorrow is Referral anniversary. YIPPEE!!!

Prayers Please

2011-08-10T09:16:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I hand my baby over to her doctor and walk away. Yikes I don't like the walking away part. I don't want my baby to feel scared.

Naomi is having a procedure tomorrow if all goes as planned we will be home by evening.

But of course this mamma worries

My biggest concern is her feeling abandoned yet again.

She has a hard time with doctors even if it is just looking at her. She still talks about the "mean guy" the one that does her blood draws.

Please pray for my sweet girl and her doctors and maybe me too, I just might need it.

By the way I got this cute little twirly getup from http://www.ruffledfeatherscompany.blogspot.com/ go check her stuff out it is super cute.

Corn on the Cobb

2011-08-09T16:45:00.000-07:00

There won't be any for this kid

In our house the tooth fairy usually bring one buck. How bout your house???

This mamma is lovin the new smile

Wondering - it is a good thing

2011-08-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

Every-time, not just once and a while but every-time, I cut my girls toe nails

I wonder who's feet and toenails she has.

Are they her China mommies or her China daddies????

part of the reason I wonder is because both my boys so clearly have their daddies feet.

My girl will probably wonder lots of things about her China mommy and China daddy.

For now she seems pretty happy with Pink sparkly toes.

and for me I am still so happy to have little toes to paint even if half the paint comes off before they are dry because my little girl can't sit still for more than 2 seconds.

A Bit of Sunshine

2011-07-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

We had just a couple of days of sunshine . . . and it felt GOOD!!!

The kids got to play in the fountain

Lots of laughs for many hours

But now we are back to RAIN . . . YUCK!!!

Please Please Please. I really WANT a summer around here.

I am grateful for the sun we had but I might go crazy with these kids and the rain.

BLAH!!!

2011-07-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

This weather is killing me . . . YUCK!!!

Rain, Rain, Rain

We live in the Pacific NW and I can count on one hand the sunny days we have had this summer.

I NEED some sun

PLEASE!!!!

I got NOTHING exciting to post . . . so I leave you with my cute little pup

Duke before his hair cut kind of muttly but adorable.

After . . . it will take a bit of getting used to

Camping

2011-07-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

We have been busy. Busy fishing, walking, hanging with friends and relaxing. Our neighbors took us to their favorite camping spot for a long weekend. IT WAS GORGEOUS!!! '

I forgot my camera. So disappointing because it was truly a little slice of heaven.

The only way to this island is by personal boat. There were moments when we were the only people on the island.

We are off again this weekend for a shorter camping trip with some great friends. We are so blessed with lots of great people in our lives.

Princess Camp

2011-06-30T13:24:00.000-07:00

Princess Dance Camp with 2 very special friends. Naomi loves that LiLi and ChuChu both have black hair just like her.

3 Very Beautiful Princesses

Not the best shot but I love the hand holding

My girl made me my very own crown, I think that makes me the Queen. Right?

My pretty princess with Snow White and Cinderella

Visitor

2011-06-28T06:44:00.000-07:00

We got to see our Spanish girl this weekend. We had a nice dinner out on Friday night, which was exactly 2 years from the first time we met. This time we got to meet her mom and dad, GREAT people

On Sunday night we had her and her family over for dinner. It was lovely . Didn't realize how much we think of her as family.

Ana's mom made us a YUMMY tortilla de patatas we grilled up some salmon and had Ana salad (for old times sake) Then we made s'mores in our little back yard fire place.

Great way to start the summer.

Ana it was short and sweet. We love you.

5th Grade Graduation

2011-06-20T22:23:00.000-07:00

Oh where has the time gone. My first born just graduated from Elementary school. Not sure how this happened so quickly.

GULP!!! Yes, that means Middle School is next year!!! GULP GULP!!!

The pride that swells inside me is nothing I ever imaged could happen.

I am so proud of you Zach, I LOVE YOU, I am feeling pretty lucky right about now that I get to be your mamma.

Western Days - 1st Grade Style

2011-06-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

TGIF!!!

2011-06-10T14:33:00.000-07:00

Camp

2011-06-06T08:04:00.000-07:00

My boy is off to 5th grade. I know he will have a great time.

This momma worries . . . will he be warm enough, will he get a tummy ache (he has been having tummy issues), will his feet get wet, will he have fun. Sheesh this is ridiculous. I think it all comes with being a mom. Someone please tell me this is normal.

Love Ya Zach . . . I know you will have a great time and I know I will miss you.

Tiny Bubbles

2011-05-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

Such a feet for my girly to blow bubbles.

Takes a little extra coordinating when you have a hole connecting your nose and mouth

She did it!!

Oh so proud!!!

Flowers for Me????

2011-05-06T06:56:00.000-07:00

Somehow those lovely ~~weeds~~ dandelions become pretty yellow flowers . . . must be when a pretty little girl gives them to her momma. I think a little magic happens.

Easter in Pictures

2011-04-27T07:21:00.000-07:00

So excited to color the eggs . . .

Zach likes to get creative with his coloring

Naomi hunted for eggs at our local community park

Big brother giving her tips on finding eggs

So many eggs to be found

Cheering his sister on, I was proud of him he really let her find every single egg.

and boy did she find a ton

On our way out she found one of 10 "golden eggs" so she traded it in for a pillow pet

Zach hung out on the side lines with the dogs

I think he feels a bit to old to hunt for eggs

After church on Sunday we had family over and another egg hunt . . . Thanks to Auntie Laurie for bringing over a bunch of stuffed eggs.

The hunt in our back yard

The Easter Bunny is getting creative in his hiding

Yep, someones big brother stole an egg, but that was after the little princess stole one of his eggs. Go Figure

Smile

2011-03-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

My boys smile has a few holes in it.

I think it is pretty darn CUTE!!!

Spring

2011-03-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

It is here.

I have a love hate relationship with Spring. Love beautiful flowers and SUN oh I love the sun!! Hate the allergies they are killing me right now.

Love this girl of mine. I know I sound like a broken record but I am still amazed and so very grateful that this girl is my daughter.

The journey of adoption and family is amazing. I don't want to make the "journey" sound all perfect and rosy cuz it ain't. In fact it can be down right HARD. it is hard. Bio kids, adopted kids, really they are all challenging and rewarding in their own little and BIG ways. They are each so special and so very LOVED.

On that note I am off to the spa today to see an old friend. Hope you all can find some time to enjoy and relax because we all need it.

Happy St. Patricks Day

2011-03-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

2 down

2011-03-07T13:00:00.000-08:00

We have lots and lots of coughing and runny noses around here. Nobody is MISERABLE just kinda BLAH!

Sick Kid

2011-03-03T10:33:00.000-08:00

Poor boy he gets a virus then his asthma kicks in big time. Missing school today and they are making pizza's, he is bummed.

P.S. yes that is slobber and snot on his pillow, I'll get on that soon. . . promise

11

2011-02-24T14:11:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Zach

11 . . . how did this happen?

This kid is a sweet one.
Kinda quite.

Very trustworthy

Sensitive

Good at school, behaves great at school though he does not love the homework, in fact he HATES homework and let's us know it.

He got his birthday wish SNOW . . . no school

Loves his Duke

We love you Zach!!

So blessed to be your momma, can't wait to see what the next 11 years brings.

So far

2011-02-15T07:58:00.000-08:00

It is only 7:30 Am and I have already cleaned up

2 piles of poop

a pile of pee

and a torn apart book

She is driving me nuts today.

and to think last night we were thinking she was potty trained. HA HA

Good thing God makes things so cute or else.

P.S. We named her Phinney after our old neighborhood Phinney Ridge. 10 years of memories in that hood

Gung Hay Fat Choy

2011-02-03T14:03:00.000-08:00

She's a Keeper

2011-01-27T14:05:00.000-08:00

We could not have ordered a better pup.

She is about 12 weeks 25 pounds

Lovin the big ol' soft ears

Duke establishing the big brother roll - showin some teeth. He would like us to think he is tough, we pretend we believe him

Puppy breath

Big paws thumping on the deck - I LOVE IT

Sweet thing - though she is a bit of a thief. I find random socks, shoes, undies in odd places. Still makes me smile though ask me in a few weeks.

PUPPY!!!

2011-01-21T13:17:00.000-08:00

Isn't she sweet.

I can't wait to get my hands on her. Tomorrow 3 PM Sharp.

She needs a name. The people at the Shelter call her Thelma. I think it's kinda cute, but the kids, not so much.

Zach wants to name her Duchess because her big yet not so big dog brother is Duke

Nathaniel is hoping for ToTo, Yes we watched Wizard of Oz last weekend

Naomi agrees with whoever she feels like at the moment. Though she sounds awful cute saying Duchess.

Any name suggestions for our new puppy??? Love to hear ideas.

Shopping

2011-01-18T20:07:00.000-08:00

Look what we bought today

Looking forward to a very special new family member coming home this Saturday

Guess what kind???

Yep!!! The 4 legged, tail waggin, ball chasin, puppy breathin kind

It would be way to boring if I posted her entire pound puppy self . . . check back soon.

~~I am~~ My kids are so excited I they can barley stand it.

Looking Up

2011-01-11T13:43:00.000-08:00

My girl is doing a bit better.

Still pondering our visit to Children's last week.

No planned surgeries for several more years.

We are considering getting an obturator to help with speech. The question is will it help with speech??? If anyone has experience with one PLEASE chime in.

A Very Happy Ending

2011-01-08T23:06:00.000-08:00

You see Pete's grandma passed away last night/early this morning and tonight less than 12 hours later his Grandpa passed away.

Both of different illnesses and age

Not a tragic accident that took them together

I would say Love.

They are together in Heaven . . .embarking on their final journey.

God bless them.

Fits

2011-01-07T13:27:00.000-08:00

My sweet precious baby girl. (sorry don't puke though she is really all of that and so much more)

Her fits have gone to a new level.

Biting

Me

her Momma

the hand that feeds her

SO NAUGHTY

I held my cool (which is hard for me)

It happened twice today

Once when we were leaving speech "I want more homework" (I did want to record those words for future use) We were walking out to the school parking lot (the boys school, her school, the new family in town) and she was dragging her feet along with some kicking and screaming

then Biting

Yep she tried to bite my hand and my arm, really anything she could sink her teeth into. I wanted to let her lay on the wet and rainy concrete and let it all out.

One mom walked by and did the "oh sweety what is wrong" Really, Really lady . . . my girl is being a HUGE HUGE TURD. Instead of letting her go for it I picked her up and put her in the car and drove her home (reference above (the new family in town)). When I got her out of her seat at home she melded into me and just sobbed big FAT SAD tears.

This adoption thing is hard. I know for 100% that this fit started as a 3 year old power, did not get my way fit but it ended a bit different. Is it a girl thing???? 3rd child thing???? Adoption grief????? What???

Parenthood is HARD HARD HARD

Why
do
I
want
another
China
baby??

Simple

Because we can.

Joy

Love

Once less orphan and that would be GOOD

P.S that was not a hint. . . Hubby is not ready for anymore (someday??)

Wishes do come True

2011-01-04T11:17:00.000-08:00

My little man got his hearts desire for Christmas

Meet Cinnamon and Skunk the Guinea Pigs

And while I am introducing animals

this is our Cat Sugar, he came with the house. Yes I did say that. The previous owners could not take him so they asked if we would . . . could we say no????

Thanks for prayers yesterday, everything went well other than the "mean guy" that did the blood draw. I will post on that later.

Prayers and Good Thoughts

2011-01-03T09:03:00.000-08:00

We are headed to Children's Hospital for Naomi's annual cleft appointment and a big ol' blood draw. I always get a bit anxious for these appointments (goes way back to when Nathaniel was born and we spent a many uncertain hours there) Anyway your prayers and good thoughts would be much appreciated.

2010-12-31T23:58:00.000-08:00

2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

May the new year bring you Peace and Joy.

From our Family to Yours

Christmas

2010-12-31T09:02:00.000-08:00

The Festivities in Pictures

These are in no such order . . . mostly because I just don't feel like it and someone is waking up and needs her momma.

We had a lovely Christmas season with family and friends and I am so sad that it is over.

Our Very Own Frosty the Snowman

2010-12-29T18:40:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T23:10:00.000-08:00

Have a Wonderful and Joyful Christmas.

The Stockings are Hung

2010-12-24T17:33:00.000-08:00

The Birthday boy has a special request for Santa . . . not sure if Santa delivers Guinea Pigs????? I'll keep you posted . . . .

Happy Birthday

2010-12-24T06:28:00.000-08:00

My sweet baby

Has grown so fast, somedays I feel the time slipping by.

7 years ago my Sweet Nathaniel was born . . . Oh what a Christmas gift he is

I LOVE you so much little Than man

I Got an Early Christmas Gift

2010-12-21T08:24:00.000-08:00

And I LOVE it!!!

Before

Notice our stockings, No mantel to hang on.

The install

Apparently I am married to a monkey a handy one at that . . . I love monkeys

YEA!!! I love it.

Thanks dad for building me a new mantel . . . It is exactly what I wanted.

Thanks to my husband for installing it.

Thanks Em for the new black fireplace screen.

Everything came together just in time for Santa to stuff those stockings full of goodies.

Goodbye Piggies

2010-12-17T17:49:00.000-08:00

Check out what we did today

Missing a few inches

Super CUTE do!

and

the Neck . . .oh so kissable

I first met our "hair lady" when I was 2 . . . we go way back. In fact she did piggies in my hair when we were wee ones.

Have a lovely weekend . . . Enjoy the Christmas Season

On my way out , , , Girls night.

Santa 2010

2010-12-16T07:34:00.000-08:00

I Love our Santa traditions

Notice the distance Naomi kept between her and Santa???? No tears . . . Success!

Then to a fun dinner with family

Downtown is such a magical place at Christmas time

Carousel ride is a must

Cousins being silly

Lovin life

We even got in a little window shopping

A momma must dream . . . right?

and so must the little ones

Christmas Cookies - Take 1

2010-12-09T21:15:00.000-08:00

Naomi and Nathaniel decorated Christmas cookies tonight. The best part was they shared and enjoyed each others company. NO fighting or arguing NONE! and for this I could overlook the mess and sticky floor. It was music to this mamma's ears.

Enjoying the final product

Absolutely horrified how yucky such a fun project could turn out.

My girl does not like sweets, something must be wrong . . . right???

Peace Joy Love

2010-12-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks Grandma and YeYe for the cute new hat, scarf and gloves . . . the scarf will remind me to be peaceful in the days leading up to Christmas . . . at least that is what mom thinks.

Curls

2010-12-04T17:00:00.000-08:00

I had a few minutes today and I used those few minutes for very very important things . . . curling my daughters hair. Bonding? Right?

Pretty Cute!

Sweet little thing

I'm thinkin about curls for Santa pictures.

Speaking of Santa pictures . . . Naomi saw last years pictures, she was screaming . Now she is scared . . . Hoping for NO tears on Monday

Happy Saturday!!!

Snow

2010-11-24T13:22:00.000-08:00

We got it!!! SNOW . . . the kids have been out of school for 2 days.

I gotta tell you this suburbia thing is GOOD.

Our neighborhood is surrounded by golf course which is a perfect place to take walks, we grown up like that.

Golf course sledding is PERFECT!! safe and fun and safe, we grown up like that too.

Our kids are having a blast. Yesterday the neighbor brought out her fire pit and we roasted hot dogs smack dab in the middle of the street (we do live in a cul-de-sac)

New Neighborhood is Great! New neighbors . . . couldn't have asked for better.

Life is Good!

In My Arms

2010-11-23T14:54:00.000-08:00

I have been kissing these cheeks for 2 years now (hard to believe). I am one blessed momma.

2 years ago in Nanchang China this sweet little girl was placed in my arms forever. I wish I could put into words how amazing it was, how adoption has touched our lives in the most indescribably amazing and beautiful way.

2 years ago

2010-11-20T11:29:00.000-08:00

We were a day into the most amazing trip of my life

The Great Wall of China

Happy Birthday Pete

2010-11-19T07:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to a man that I am blessed to call my husband and a fabulous Daddy.

Paint

2010-11-17T14:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon I decided to paint our family room. I like the color it is sort of a hot cocoa color, warm and cozy.

My girl was looking awfully cute this morning in her polka-dots so I ~~let her~~ asked her to pose on the ladder. Like the cheesy scrunchy smile? I do!!

A Moment

2010-11-12T07:23:00.000-08:00

Moments

You see I am back in my routine working out early in the morning then grabbing my cup of coffee and sitting down at my computer visiting all my favorite blogs (99.9% adoption related).

It feels good.

There are always fun inspiring stories of families that are formed all by the grace of god through adoption. Stories of the struggles and heartache of adoption. There are struggles but for us the joy far outweighs the struggles.

The ones that really get me are the sweet little faces that still wait, there are so many that still wait. so many.

My heart aches for the babies and big kids. Most that I see are special needs but really when you look at those sweet faces you just see a sweet face a child not a special need.

Babies that don't have a mommy or daddy. Incredibly, unbelievably, horribly sad. Stop and think about it for just a second.

It hurts.

So my moments have turned into weeks and months of praying and wondering what my next step is?

I would love to adopt another. I hope that is our next step. But I am open to other ways.

So I keep praying

An orphan NO more

Beautiful

Not always joyful

My daughter

I am so blessed to call you my girl Naomi Chu Yu

30 Days of Giveaways

2010-11-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Go check out Stefanie's blog she is hosting a 30 day giveaway. Her blog has been an inspiration to me.

Sweet Friends

2010-11-03T09:13:00.000-07:00

We had a visit from some very special friends.

You see we met in China almost 2 years ago. We were handed our daughters the same day just doors apart in a hotel in Nanchang Jiangxi China.

I feel blessed to know this family and look forward to celebrating our 2 year gotcha day anniversary soon.

Poor Poor Pitiful Boy

2010-11-02T19:53:00.000-07:00

Poor boy got groomed and did they ever give him a hair cut, they shaved the poor guy.

Duke just a couple days before the mishap all fluffy and warm.

Now he is freezing cold and all out of sorts

He seems kinda sad . . . I did laugh hysterically when he walked in the door

Goofy boy

Poor Duke, the big dogs get a pretty good laugh at him.

He does make for a good snugly little boy. Kinda cute too.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T12:55:00.000-07:00


from a Vampire, Tough Guy and a Fairy Princes

Mt. Rainier

2010-10-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

We took a little road trip to Mt. Rainier. I hadn't been since I was a little girl.

We got to spend the day with Auntie Laurie and Uncle Greg

A great mile and a half hike up the mountain

some of us had to stop to rest

Or get a picture of the men in her life

O.K. guess these men are actually boys, but they sure are handsome

We tried for a Christmas card picture . . .

This was my way of getting a little extra workout - 33 pounds on my back

And this is how the kids got back to the car . . . even the pumpkin cookies didn't work. Thank God for Dads and Uncles.

We had a great day.

AMAZING!

Fall Leaves

2010-10-25T20:32:00.001-07:00

Go Dog Go

2010-10-21T15:26:00.001-07:00

I have a little back seat driver.

"red - stop"

"Geeeeen - Gooooo"

She does not miss a light

She really does pay attention.

Soap Boat

2010-10-19T14:18:00.000-07:00

First grade homework is pretty fun sometimes . . .

especially when you get dads undivided attention

and get to use tools from his tool box

The final product . . . a boat made out of a bar of Ivory

A happy and proud boy

Forms

2010-10-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

We are on borrowed time. Naomi is still being seen for speech at her birth to 3 program, the problem is she is 3 now and as soon as her speech teacher gets a new student she has to let Naomi go. So sad because I love her speech therapist she is good, she gets Naomi and all her antics and believe me she has MANY. I get attached to these peeps.

The school district has picked up her speech services but only once a week. Honestly that just is NOT going to cut it for our girl. Naomi is very delayed and with speech apraxia thrown in there, well, she has a loooong why to go. She is making progress but I see many of years ahead of her.

So anyway, I was filling out forms for private speech and another program. It always hits me when they ask for her medical and birth history. We have almost None. We know so very little about those first 15 months of her life and a big fat 0 for birth and pregnancy info. It makes me Sad, but for her. I wonder how much this will bother her as she gets older??? When she is filing out these forms for herself???

It makes me long for her to know just a little history. I know she won't.

As for me I am so proud, beyond PROUD that my daughter is from China that God chose her to be

Mine.

OK.

Ours because her daddy and brothers are quite smitten with our girl.

TGIF

2010-10-08T14:40:00.001-07:00

Have a wonderful weekend.

Good luck Auntie Laurie!!!!

The Hoop

2010-10-04T19:38:00.000-07:00

Pete has been wanting a basketball hoop for a very long time. A place for a hoop was one of his criteria for our new house.

Look what he picked up at a garage sale this weekend . . .

My boys are signed up to play on a team.

They got a little practice in today.

We had to keep the little guys from getting squished by the ball

Well Child Check #3

2010-09-30T19:08:00.000-07:00

33 lbs - 70%
37 inches - 50%
one flu shot = no tears

Holly cow what a difference from ALMOST 2 years ago Then she barley reached 3% in height or weight and she screamed bloody murder if the doctor walked in the room.

How has my baby grown this fast, where has the time gone?

Ellis Island

2010-09-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

Zach has been learning about immigrating into the U.S. back in the 1900's. Tomorrow they are doing a simulation. Cool Hu!!

His character is a Grandpa.

He gave me a sneak peek . . .

Handsome yet tough old fellow

Boots

2010-09-28T20:50:00.001-07:00

Another one

2010-09-28T08:56:00.001-07:00

lost
the tooth, not the kid

It's Here

2010-09-24T15:32:00.000-07:00

Date night tonight. Just me and my man. First babysitter for Naomi (other than family and friends) Just a couple hours but boy do we need it.

No alarm clocks and very little on the schedule.

The Weekend is here and I am HAPPY!!

Enjoy yours!!!

Relax!!

my boys relaxing sipping a nice cold beverage with their crazy lazy straws. quite clever I must say

What a day!

2010-09-21T16:37:00.000-07:00

Few!

Naomi and I were at the beach with some buddies of ours. A special little man in our lives.

Anyway we were wrapping things up when I got this call "Hi Is this Nathaniel's mom? this is *&*& from *&*& elementary school Nathaniel just ate someones lunch. A PB&J, I administered his Epi pen and the EMT is here now, if we need to transport to the hospital we will let you know" The rest was a blur, I do NOT remain calm in these situations.

I Freak out.

Got Naomi's car seat in my friends car (thank God for friends)

Almost locked my keys in the car.

I was off and driving (probably should not have been driving in such a freaked out state)

Took me F O R E V E R to get to the school

Drove up to the school to see a Firetruck and ambulance I knew it was for my kid.

I almost had a heart attack

Tell you, not a sight a momma wants to see.

SCARY!!!

All is well now. We are home. Nathaniel is going about his day and I well . . . still recovering.

This momma thing is hard work.

We are going to decorate Lunch bags tonight . . . making his very unique.