The Family Blah, Blah, Blahg

Saying Goodbye to My Blog

2009-01-02T10:11:00.005-06:00

I've toyed with the idea of ending my blog for a while for MANY different reasons. The reasons to continue are becoming less important to me these days so I'm feeling the need to say goodbye and the new year seems an appropriate place.

I'm not sure that I'll be leaving for good, but if I do come back I hope to have a different emphasis or purpose for this blog. One of the reasons I've been hesitant to quit is because of my passion for adoption and I've loved hearing from families (a few) who've been inspired to adopt because of my blog...that's PRICELESS to me and so I'm going to have to trust G*d will use me to encourage adoption in another way. I think I'll keep the blog here for a while and you can ALWAYS email me with questions concerning adoption (or anything else) at k95 @ comcast.net (remove spaces).

I know this sounds dramatic, but this is going to be painful for me. I LOVE my blog...which is mostly the problem (if you get what I mean). Blogging has taken far too much of my time and affection.

If I do come back I'd like this to be a little different and since I'm not sure if or how that will be I'm going to say goodbye blog-friends! I've learned so much from you all and hope still to stop by occasionally and visit those of you with blogs.

This may not make sense in this context, but it makes perfect sense to me and is my little reminder:
(on dying to "SELF")

"It is never fun to die. To rip through the dear and tender stuff of which life is made can never be anything but deeply painful. Yet that is what the cross did to Jesus and it is what the cross would do to every man to set him free." Tozer in The Pursuit of God

and another from the same book...
"The man who has God for his treasure has all things in One. Many ordinary treasures may be denied him, or if he is allowed to have them, the enjoyment of them will be so tempered that they will never be necessary to his happiness. Or if he must see them go, one after one, he will scarcely feel a sense of loss, for having the Source of all things he has in One all satisfaction, all pleasure, all delight. Whatever he may lose he has actually lost nothing, for he now has it all in One, and he has it purely, legitimately and forever."

A Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T00:02:00.004-06:00

We had a wonderfully quiet Christmas. It's so rare for all of us to be together so much and we just enjoyed the time we had. We went to the candlelight Christmas Eve service at church and then Megan begged for some "Christmas ice cream". Then the kids were coerced in front of the tree for a picture.

The girls are excited that their stockings are going to be filled tonight.

Miyah found baby Jesus under the star and gets to open the first present.

Let the fun begin!

Never mind the expensive toys...these Dollar Store swords were the hit this Christmas. I should have known.

I know it's strange, but Matt asked for a smoothie maker this Christmas and got the Magic Bullet. I figured it'll be a good dorm room appliance to take with him next year.

The girls with their live cubs. They were so excited to get these. This is the only thing they asked for this year.

Mei Lin and I fell asleep on the couch in the early afternoon.

After dinner we went to a movie then came home for some family time.

Enjoying some smoothies.

Megan's so sweet. She spent some of her break making a quilt for the girls' animals.

On New Year's Eve both Megan and Matt had plans with friends and Pat and I invited some families over to play games. The little ones played and watched a movie while we talked and played games. Both of the families were part of our small group Bible study this summer so it was good to get together again.

Happy New Year to you all!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-24T12:36:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas!

We hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a blessed 2009.

Lydia NEEDS Your Prayers!

2008-12-23T18:49:00.005-06:00

I'm so saddened by today's (Dec 23) journal update from Monica, Lydia's mom. PLEASE keep Lydia and her family in your prayers.

Click below to read the latest news from Monica (under "journal" for Dec 23):
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lydialimeieikomiyashita

Family Visit and Catching Up

2008-12-22T21:22:00.000-06:00

You can usually assume that if I haven't posted in a while it isn't for lack of events to post about, but rather too much going on to find the time to post. I'm hoping to catch up in the next several posts.

But first, Pat's brother and his family stopped through for a couple of nights on their way down to Disney. It had been over a year since we'd seen some of them and over two years since seeing the entire family. We all had a great visit and the kids really enjoyed each other. I have the sweetest nieces and nephews and it was so nice to catch up with my brother and sister-in-law.

Pat and his brother, David
My niece Grace with Mei Lin

My sister-in-law Colleen and my niece Cate

Colleen and David

Marty and Megan

Playing cards

The gingerbread house making

Icing problems

Marty

Cate

Grace

Liam

Grace was like a little mother to the girls and they loved her!

Pat reading The Advent Book with the kids. Unfortunately we didn't get a picture of ALL of us on the couch for advent the next night.

Traditions

2008-12-22T20:34:00.003-06:00

Here are a few of the Christmas traditions chronicled by camera. Most don't need any explanation...

Miyah's reaction to making cut out cookies...

Mei Lin's reaction to making cut out cookies... check out that throat

Megan's masterpieces

Miyah did a great job, too

The day we got our tree Mei Lin constantly sang "O Tismas Tree, O Tismas Tree..."

Miyah's just excited about Christmas!

The Breakfast Club

2008-12-22T16:51:00.007-06:00

Emilio Estevez? Judd Nelson? High School detention?

No!

A dozen incredible women? Amazing Support? 6:30 AM at Cracker Barrel?

YES!

This was our second monthly breakfast and since we're making this a monthly outing I guess we can call it a club.

This amazing group of ladies includes adoptive moms and adoptive moms-to-be. I love these ladies and look forward to our time of fellowship. This month we had a few new faces as our little group grows with women longing for the support and fellowship that can only be understood by fellow adoptive moms. We've each been through that long, painful wait to bring home our children and all the blessings and challenges of adoption. Several have been blessed with special needs children that require multiple surgeries and ongoing medical care, and a few have lost a child and can share in the "fellowship of the suffering".

I'm so grateful that God has brought us all together. We really DO need each other. And I am truly blessed to call these ladies "sisters".

Amy and Tisra have written about our morning breakfast, as well as Leslie's post from last month. I forgot my camera both times, but Amy and Leslie captured both occasions.

Amy is waiting for her little Ruby from China and has three of the most adorable little guys you'd ever want to see. She also happens to be a part of that fellowship of the suffering. Amy has the sweetest spirit.

Tisra is a new friend. I just met her this weekend, but I'm sure I'll be getting to know her better soon. She is a mother of three and waiting for her fourth child from Taiwan. I found out she also homeschools and lives two minutes away.

Leslie is mommy to three sweet kids. She adopted Susannah this past fall from Kunming, China (Mei Lin's age and from the same orphanage). Susannah has had a severe heart defect repaired since coming home and will have her cleft lip repaired in March. Leslie is an amazing woman with a strong love for God and his children.

Anne is mommy to Elizabeth, one of my girls' best friends and she's had a long wait for her Clare in China. We can't wait for that referral! Anne is one of the most loving people I know. Her and her husband (and Elizabeth) just exude God's love. She's also a homeschooling mommy.

Heather is mommy to five kids now, two biological, three adopted. All three adopted children have special needs requiring frequent doctor visits and surgery. Amazingly they are looking into adopting one more little girl to round out a family of eight. I know I've mentioned before that Heather is like the Energizer bunny. She's ALWAYS going and always joyful. She and her husband have a huge heart for people and for orphans in particular and have taken in dozens of foster children over the years. Heather homeschools her 6 year old, Wyatt.

Jo is mommy to two sweet children adopted from China. Her Grace is Miyah's great friend and Anna is now living with Jesus in heaven. Jo is a strong, giving woman. She always has the right perspective on a given situation and a great story to go with it! Jo is the initiator and organizer of our little breakfasts.

Teresa is mommy to one biological and one adopted daughter. Isabella (from China) is Miyah's good friend and we always enjoy our visits with Teresa and Bella. Teresa is a cancer survivor and a sweet, giving woman. Even through her most difficult times I've never seen Teresa frustrated or angry. She emulates a love for life that I admire. Teresa also homeschools her girls.

Stefanie is mommy to three sweet kiddoes; two biological boys and one little girl she adopted the same time we adopted Mei Lin. She's blessed with daughter, Corinne, who has special needs including a repaired heart defect. Stefanie is beyond sweet because she's sweet, but so real and always thinking of others. When Anna was in ICU she planned our little prayer vigil with Jo. When Leslie was in China getting Susannah, she organized a little prayer group for them. I could go on. She's helped in so many ways. Stefanie homeschools, as well.

Angela is mommy to four kids, two biological and two adopted. Her two adopted girls are my girls' ages and the youngest, Claire, is from Mei Lin's orphanage. Claire has just today completed her eighth surgery since coming home in June. Please pray for her recovery. That girl is a trooper and we can't wait until the day she'll be running around with our Mei Lin. Angela is a caring, generous friend. She's been with me through both adoptions and has been a constant source of support for so many.

Patrice is mom to three biological grown children and two adopted little ones. Patrice has one of the sweetest spirits I've ever known. She always has a kind word and even though she doesn't look a day over thirty, she's adorned with that beauty of motherly love for everyone she meets. Her wisdom and grace are always an encouragement. Patrice homeschools her kindergartener.

And Robin is mommy to one adopted daughter and waiting for her second from China. I haven't had much opportunity to get to know Robin as of yet, but I hope that will change soon. Robin also has shared in the suffering of losing a child.

I'm so thankful for each of these women and their loving support.

The miracle of this little group is that as we began emailing back and forth before this month's breakfast, we all became sentimental and sappy about how much each of these ladies means to each of us and most of us had stories of praying for friends just like we've found here.

God has truly heard all of our prayers and knit our hearts together.

A Dickens of a Christmas

2008-12-22T15:43:00.001-06:00

Every year our little historic downtown closes its streets to host a nostalgic event called A Dickens of a Christmas. Men, women, and children dressed in Victorian clothing portray characters from "A Christmas Carol" and walk amongst the crowds of people and booths. We always enjoy this little event, but this year we went mainly to see Megan dance. The temperature was rather chilly, but we enjoyed all the sights and sounds.
It was hard to capture any great pictures during Megan's dance because my view was obscured by a couple of posts and speakers.

Megan after her performance

I think Santa needs an eyebrow trimmer for Christmas. I think this was the only "visit" my girls had with Santa this Christmas, but you know me and how I feel about the guy anyway.

I'm not sure which Dickens character he would be

After all that walking we stopped at a little cupcake bakery for a snack.

Not sure why I took this picture, but JOY seems to be a theme in my life these days.

"I bring you good tidings of GREAT JOY." Luke 2. And my favorite, "In His presence is fullness of JOY" Psalm 16:11. Christ's presence/coming (Immanuel-God with us) brings great JOY if we know Him and have constant fellowship with Him. I'm constantly reminded that there is joy to be found in every circumstance as I remain in His presence. He came to be Immanuel, "with us". Nowhere else do I find "fullness of joy." Not in health. Not in financial or job security. Not in family. Not in friends or relationships. Only in HIS PRESENCE! That's what Christmas is all about.

Children's Hope Christmas Party

2008-12-22T15:38:00.001-06:00

The girls and I enjoyed an evening with Children's Hope (CHI)staff and families. We used Children's Hope to adopt both of our girls and absolutely love our local staff and social worker. Unfortunately the agency has hit hard times and had to close our local branch. I love all these people and I'm so thankful to them for helping us bring our precious girls home. Some local CHI families planned a little christmas get-together, just like old times. I didn't take many photos, but here are a few.

Mei Lin with Amanda, our social worker. Amanda is a new mommy to little Sam. Isn't he adorable! We love Amanda and will have to come up with a reason for her to visit us...but unfortunately it probably won't be a homestudy.

Elizabeth and Miyah

When in the South...Celebrate Like a Southerner

2008-12-12T17:52:00.005-06:00

Many of you may remember these from last year. My sister had sent one to us and we thought they were hilarious.

Yeehaw and Merry Christmas!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

It's Beginning to Look (and Feel) a Lot Like Christmas!

2008-12-12T09:22:00.007-06:00

It hasn't really felt like Christmas to me yet this year. I've been having a hard time completely immersing myself in the season for some reason. But as the sun went down yesterday, a very rare snow began to fall and it was the perfect mood enhancer. It finally feels like Christmas!

After dinner I took the girls out to find that even though there was only an inch or two, it was the perfect snowman-making snow. Unfortunately we weren't outfitted to be in the snow for long and the girls got cold after an hour. But we managed to make a few snowmen.

The snow is quickly melting today so it won't be here for long. That's just enough to make this Yankee girl happy.

I had to throw this in here, too. Another bed-head picture. I don't know why, but I think my girls look gorgeous just fresh from bed.

LIFE-Giving Gifts to Celebrate the LIFE-Giver

2008-12-11T08:37:00.007-06:00

Here's another long overdue post.

This year it's been on my heart to do something a little different...to try to squelch the usual buying frenzy and materialism of Christmas.

Our friends and family need to pay attention to this one: If you were planning to give us even the tiniest gift this year...PLEASE DON'T...instead we're asking that you make a donation where the money is really needed.

One of the places the money is definitely needed and a ministry that has touched my heart is Amazima Ministries. Please visit Katie's blog. I know you'll be moved by what she's doing in Uganda. Katie (pictured above baptizing some of her kids) is a 20 year old mother of nine (once orphaned) children in Uganda, and she's also a college student here in the states trying to support her kids plus fund the education of nearly 200 other Ugandan children.

There are many other worthy causes, as well. We still love to give to Half the Sky. After reading Silent Tears I'm even more convinced of the need for ministries such as this. They do an amazing job of improving the health and lives of Chinese orphans.

If nothing else, I hope to inspire you to think beyond the materialism and needless gift-giving. There are so many that need the absolute basics for survival. The $50 spent on St*rbucks gift cards for teacher gifts could instead bring education, clothing, or even survival to a child somewhere (nothing against St*rbucks-they do a lot of humanitarian work, as well...just an example). I know teachers get so many little (many times useless) trinkets each year, so for teacher's gifts and family gifts this year we'll be donating to Katie's Amazima Ministries.

Isn't that why Jesus came...to bring LIFE and LIFE MORE ABUNDANTLY! I can't think of a better way to celebrate His birth.

A Joy-Filled Thanksgiving

2008-12-10T20:40:00.007-06:00

I know this is a very late Thanksgiving post...but I'm just now catching my breath after A LOT of busyness around here. I came home from Thanksgiving with children eager to decorate, a paper to write, a final to take, as well as several projects for Christmas. Those are all done except for a bit more decorating to do...and a bit of shopping, decorating the tree, baking, wrapping...well, those won't take me long anyway.

So, I finally have time to reflect a bit. It's actually been a year of a lot of reflecting and questioning and praying and praising.

I've watched as so many close to me have struggled through trial after trial this year. It's been sobering at times, but I remember the great promises that come with trials, like this one:

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-3

Joy is a byproduct of being thankful, I think. And even when it's impossible to be thankful for the trials we're in, we can be thankful for so many other things. So I'm truly finding all the things for which I'm sincerely thankful to God. My faith has been shaken, tested, and ultimately strengthened. And I have that long list of all the mercies and blessings bestowed on our family this year. God is amazing and so worthy of all of our THANKSGIVING!

One reason to be thankful is that my mother did all the cooking this year, bless her heart. She generously offered to host Thanksgiving with the purpose of giving my sister and I a break. It was so relaxing...and DELICIOUS! I haven't had my mom's Thanksgiving dinner in far too many years and it was wonderful! Thanks, Mom!

My sister Tracy and her family made the looong drive over to have Thanksgiving with us and it was so nice to see them. Here are (a lot) of pictures...I had to seize the rare opportunity and take as many pictures as I could. The sad thing is that we never know when we'll see each other again.

(below) We took a little hike in the Smokies. Here are the families minus me, Pat, and Matt. There aren't many pictures of Matt and Pat because they only came for Thanksgiving day. They both had class Tuesday night and Matt had to work the day after Thanksgiving

The cousins

I love this picture of my mom and dad.

The kids love the cows behind my parent's house. We did go on the other side of the fence, but the cows weren't looking too friendly.

Miyah

Brielle

Brock Ji Hao

This is the sign welcoming us to our hike

Don't worry Mei Lin, Miyah will protect you!

My sister Tracy and her family

My niece, Brittany

My nephew, Brock

My other nephew, Brant

Brittany and Megan

Sweet Cousins

Miyah

Brock's first Thanksgiving!

Megan enjoying Thanksgiving dinner

Mei Lin fell asleep right as Thanksgiving dinner was being served

My dad is excited to get started!

Megan and Brittany did crafts to occupy the little ones

Mei Lin and Daddy

Matt - not sure what he's doing.

An after dinner game of Phase 10

And and after dinner hike behind my parents' house for the rest of us. My parents have a beautiful view and property all around them.

My mom and dad

Mei Lin

Tracy and Max

Hiking behind my parents' house

My dad goofing around, as usual! I wish you could see my mom's face.

Miss Brielle

My Dad

Piggyback ride for Brielle...and I love this picture because if you look in the distance, Papa is holding hands and walking with Brock Ji Hao.

Whew! That's all. I hope you all have a joyous holiday season! I have some more posting to do...Christmas parties, gingerbread houses, tree decorating...but that'll have to be for another day.

Holding-On to Fall

2008-12-10T14:29:00.005-06:00

I think I've probably mentioned already how much we love fall at our house, but I haven't posted many pictures from all the days my girls spend in the leaves. So here are some leaf-playing pictures from one day last month.

Miyah would love nothing more than to rake the leaves all day. I kept asking her to please put her rake down and move away from the pile so we could play in them and she insisted that there were more leaves to include in that pile! And of course she's right. There are always more leaves no matter how much you rake.
What amazes me though is the number of games they can come up with that involve a pile of leaves.

Efficiency (or impatience) at its best. Why wait for them to fall?

Happy Raker

One of their games: Pile the Leaves on Levi - You'll see how well that went over...

Then they crashed their little bike into the pile

Our neighbor, Josiah, came home and joined us for some leaf-throwing fun.
And finally, the AMBUSH!

Kids' Photos

2008-12-10T14:18:00.003-06:00

Photoshoots at our house are always...well, interesting. That's why I rarely do real posed shots. But I wanted to get some possible shots for Christmas cards so this particular day I sort of sprang it on the kids after several weeks of trying to schedule a day when all four of them would be in the same place at the same time...our lives are just that busy. Here are a few that I got. Again, unedited because I don't have time for that right now and many of them could be considered the "outtakes" since they wouldn't really make a great picture. But they were fun and the kids actually (kind of) cooperated!

Happy 5th Birthday, Sweet Elizabeth!

2008-12-10T11:37:00.006-06:00

The girls' very good friend, Elizabeth, celebrated her 5th birthday at the bowling alley this November. I can't believe our girls are 5 already. It seems like yesterday we brought them home. The picture below was taken when the girls were about 17 months old and had only been home for less then 3-6 months.

Sweet Kisses! They loved each other from the start!

Elizabeth is growing up to be one of the very sweetest little girls I know. She is so loving, compassionate, and the best friend I could ever want for my girls (she gets that from her sweet, beautiful parents).
We love you, Miss Elizabeth!

(below) Not sure what Mei Lin is doing with her finger...Miyah's wearing her lion snout on her head, as usual.

Lunch and Pottery

2008-12-09T12:24:00.000-06:00

Today (well actually it was Nov 7) we had lunch with some friends before the kids' pottery class. It's alway refreshing to spend some time with good friends. Zion has only been home for a week and he is doing amazingly well. He is such a joyful little guy and is adapting to his new family so well.
Zion (2)
Mei Lin (This is a little washed out, but I love it...I'm trying to catch up so I'm not taking the time to edit any of these photos).

Elizabeth

Heather and Miyah

Miyah at the beginning of her pottery class. Miss Mary reads them a book about the theme for that day and they get to work with the clay before making their actual project. Today it's a gingerbread cookie plate.

While the bigger kids are in pottery class, Mei Lin and Zion play together...really for the first time. They were so silly.

And they SHARED! Amazing!

They played so nice together. It was fun to watch.

Just LOOK at that sweet face!

The (almost) finished product.
I'm not sure what prompted this, but the kids all decided to pile on top of each other. Wyatt is in there somewhere, too.

Amazed

2008-11-21T23:46:00.005-06:00

This afternoon, in a matter of an hour, arrangements were made for us to have a bone marrow drive for Lydia tomorrow afternoon at an Asian Cultural Festival where approximately 1000 people, mostly Asians, will be in attendance.

Testing kits, the perfect location, volunteers...everything came together almost instantly. I don't have time to go into details, but God's hand has orchestrated it all.

There is another marrow drive for Lydia planned at UCLA tomorrow, as well. Please pray that there is a match found for this precious girl. To visit her website, see the previous post below.

God bless.

Can You Help Lydia?

2008-11-20T11:02:00.004-06:00

All the pre-holiday busyness has kept me from blogging recently, but I do have something important I'd like to share before I attempt to catch up.

Five year old Lydia (above) was diagnosed with a deadly form of leukemia and her family is desperately trying to find a bone marrow match for her. The problem for Lydia is that because she was adopted from China her family has run into difficulty finding a donor (or at least one willing to help - read on). Lydia's story has touched my heart because she's the same age and from the same province as my Miyah. If any of us adoptive parents were in the same situation we would hope and pray that the adoption and Chinese American community would rally to help find a match for our precious child. It's SO easy to help...a cheek swab is all that's needed to determine if you (if you're Chinese) or your child is a match.

Here's a note from her mother:

"My daughter Lydia was adopted from Guangdong Province China on July
5, 2004. In August 2008, she was diagnosed with AML, a very pernicious and deadly form of leukemia. With the help of her Chinese-born doctor, we were able to locate her birthparents and some of her siblings in China that her birthfamily kept. We know she had at least two biological sisters older than she (born somewhere between 1993 and 2002) who were also abandoned. The birthparents have refused to assist with her bone marrow transplant, even though two of her already found bio siblings were a match. We are now looking for these other potential siblings to see if they were adopted and might also be a match. Lydia is part of the
Hakka ethnic group, and so a match from someone other than a relative is unlikely because of her unique, almost bi-racial typing. Lydia has classic Hakka features: "Brooke Shields" eyebrows, and rather full lips and a round face. I will have my husband post photos of Lydia and her birth family. Thank you for any assistance you may be able to lend.
Blessings,
Monica "

And a little excerpt from her website (click to go to her website):
"For those of you who have offered help and who have offered to test yourself and your children, please contact me at kensingtonlawyer@gmail.com. I can send you a kit that you can do a cheek swab, and which you will then mail directly back to the lab that has Lydia's HLA testing results. If a group of Chinese people wish to donate (meaning more than 10 or so people), the National Bone Marrow program will actually host your drive, totally funded through the bone marrow program. Please contact me in either event, as I can contact the local chapter of the National Bone Marrow Program, and get things moving. "

We're in the process of organizing a marrow drive in my area. I'll share that information when all the details have been arranged.

Please keep Lydia, her family, and birthfamily in your prayers!

Photo Collage

2008-11-10T00:05:00.003-06:00

UPDATE: Several of you have had trouble seeing this, so I'm going to try to repost it. Let me know if you can see it now.

I was just going through my photo file and noticed Megan had made this collage of the girls in their Christmas dresses.

Happy 4th Family Day, Miyah!

2008-11-07T21:35:00.007-06:00

Today we celebrated Miyah's four year adoption anniversary. It's always fun to think back to that incredible, miraculous day!

I know I've posted this picture many times before (probably every year), but this one seems to best portray Miyah's "gotcha day". This is among the many moments in my life I'd love to relive over and over again. This is November 7, 2004...

This photo speaks so clearly, doesn't it? I don't remember her being so itty bitty.

But she's still fairly itty bitty, though she's grown and changed SO much! We are so greatful to God for this AMAZING gift!

As we were in a field near Megan's school yesterday we saw two butterflies flying around us and Miyah said, "Mommy, look! That's a Mommy butterfly and a Daddy butterfly going to the butterfly orphanage to adopt their baby butterfly!" And as soon as she said that a third butterfly flew by us. I love how adoption is such a normal part of her world. She sees and hears of so many children being or having been adopted that she doesn't view it as anything other than "the way it is" and I'm so grateful for that.

When I woke up today it was raining so instead of my morning walk with my friend Jo (which I enjoy, by the way) I got to sleep in and snuggle with the girls as they woke up. After our "Happy Family Day" announcements we watched Mulan and made heart shaped chocolate chip pancakes (Miyah's favorite) in our pjs.

Later we met some friends for lunch and then we all went to a homeschool pottery class where the kids made gingerbread cookie plates.

As I put the girls down for a nap I asked Miyah what she wanted for her special Family Day dinner she said, "I want the brown chicken with the green stuff that we eat with rice." I couldn't figure out what she meant, until she grew impatient with me and said, "You know, it comes in that black container!" Aw! Mongolian Beef (brown chicken = beef) from PF Ch*angs! She sounded a little disappointed when I told her that I was cooking dinner tonight. I tried my best at something Chinese with "brown chicken," but let's face it, I can't compete with PF Ch*angs!

After dinner we gave Miyah a small gift we bought for her in China...a little gift from China for our little gift from China. This year I had a hard time deciding what to give her, but I chose a little panda tea set. I didn't know what she'd think because she's definitely NOT a girly girl and tea set says...well...girly girl. But she seemed excited when she remembered that Mulan had a tea set! She LOVES Mulan right now...watched it twice today because it was her "special day" as she continued to remind us.

After dinner, Matt and Megan had plans so we took the little ones shopping so Miyah could spend her birthday money. Did I ever mention that Mei Lin is having a hard time understanding that it's NOT her birthday? Everything Miyah chose, Mei Lin wanted to buy, too. NOTE for next year...take the birthday child ALONE. They did both end up with a horn for their bikes plus Miyah chose a bike basket and some animals (it's always about the animals). I think Miyah would have spent her money on Mei Lin if we hadn't stepped in. She has such a generous heart!

WE ARE BLESSED! Even though we play this as "Miyah's special day," it's a special day for her entire family. How do we even begin to thank God for such a gift? There's something that impresses on my heart so deeply when I look into those eyes and know that she's OURS. FOREVER! I know she's His, first and foremost, but we've been given the greatest honor and privilege of loving and raising this precious child.

Another Beautiful Homecoming

2008-11-05T00:01:00.003-06:00

Heather and Whitney made it home with Zion last Sunday! I never get tired of airport homecomings.

The whole family together at last!

Almost immediately, Zion notices his brother's fingers look just like his. What a SWEET moment! Wyatt (Lithuania) and Zion (China) were both born with ectrodactyly.

Isn't he gorgeous?

Welcome Home, Little Zion!!

Another Party, Another Holiday

2008-11-02T01:28:00.009-05:00

October always starts our busy season...right into next Feb/March it seems like we have one holiday or birthday after another.

So, we're three down (two family birthdays and a holiday), about seven to go.

I'm just going to do a "catching up" post to get it all in here...

Last week we had Pilgrim Day #2 with some home school friends...actually we were all friends before we started homeschooling our little ones. Teresa has been putting together a Thanksgiving unit study. The girls are making a cute little pocket "book" while learning the history of the pilgrims and the first thanksgiving.

My friends are such a blessing!

Here are pics from Pilgrim Day #1 (over a week ago)

Mei Lin loves Miss Anne...and her blankie and fingers.

The girls measured the length of the Mayflower...90 ft long...and the width of a bus.

Are you sensing the potential here?

Bella and Elizabeth

Bella

Elizabeth

Miyah

Mei Lin

Bella Monkey

Anne and Teresa

And here are a few from Pilgrim Day #2 (this past week)

The girls were running through the house pretending to be the town criers.

And then they were the "tithing man" or church watchman who used his long fox-tail studded pole to tickle the parishioners who fell asleep.

What is it with these monkeys? Teresa has this hanging from her ceiling to keep her little monkey from climbing furniture...I think I need one of these!

The weather was perfect for taking a ride on a brand-spank'in-new-first-time-big-girl bike.

And after last year's mishap (remember?), we waited until the last night before Halloween to carve our pumpkins. Daddy got the job done while I made dinner then we had a "pumpkin-lit" dinner in the dining room.

Miyah loved the "guts"...want some?

This warty pumpkin is a "gift" from my friend, Heather. It's sort of a criticism of my taste in pumpkins. I happen to like the fairy tale pumpkins and she, along with some other friends, thinks they're ugly, so she bought me the ugliest pumpkin she could find to leave on my porch. Now that's UGLY!

Then, of course, there's the obligatory Trick-or-Treating pictures. Miyah wanted me to make her look ferocious and so Mei Lin wanted fancy makeup, too. I'm not too sure about it though...

And, finally, Miyah's birthday party with friends at the "bouncy place."

Believe it or not, of the dozen or so shots of this pose, this shot had the most children facing the camera...and two kind of scooched their way out of the frame.

And Mommy, from the Womble Times, I haven't forgotten your tag...I hope to post in the next day or two...plus I have another tag or reward or something from way back in August that I've ignored for too long (sorry Sharon). Check back soon.

"A Whole Hand-Full"...

2008-10-29T21:39:00.007-05:00

...that's what our just-turned 5 year old is telling us she is today! I can hardly believe it. How do the years sneak up on us so quickly? It seems like yesterday she was that little 12 month old who could barely sit up. Now she's a strong, healthy, happy, outgoing little girl.

And SWEET! Anyone who knows her well can tell you they don't come any sweeter than our Miyah. She has a way about her that is so endearing and kindhearted. We are blessed beyond belief to have this little girl in our lives.

I can't help but think about her birthparents on the anniversary of her birth. Surely the day doesn't pass without them thinking about her and wondering...

As Miyah blows out her candles I can't help but breath the silent prayer for her birthparents that chokes at the back of my throat. Surely God will grant them peace on the anniversary of their loss. Joy. Sorrow. Pain. All intermingled for them those five years ago. I sense it as they must certainly have sensed her sweet spirit the moment they held her.

I'm sometimes made uneasy by the fact that one woman's profound loss has become one of my most incredible blessings. But I know God's hand is in it all and Miyah was destined to be ours even if I don't understand why loss had to be a part of that plan.

Which then leaves the question of how I got to be the luckiest mommy in the world to have these four incredible children?

God is good in his providence...in his plans that confound the most spiritual and the wisest among us.

So we continue to count our blessings in minutes, days, years spent with these precious children. Every bit of it is a gift beyond measure.

And what better way to celebrate such a milestone than with a chicken nugget and waffle fry? When we asked Miyah what she wanted to do for her family birthday meal, she said, "Chik-Fil-A* chicken nuggets!" Which is easy (and cheap) enough. It also happened to be Chik-*Fil-A's Family N*ght during the week of Hallow*een, so there were clowns and prizes, along with the usual cow, balloon guy, and free kids meals and ice cream (orange). A ready-made party!

We celebrated a night early because everyone had somewhere to be on her actual birthday. As it was, on the night we did celebrate, Matt had to get to his college class and Megan to dance, so they were only able to join us for a little while.

I know you're not accustom to all these words, so here's the overabundance of photos as usual....

Mei Lin ran up to give the cow a hug.

Miyah got a lot of animal dress-up stuff this year (perfect)...

And she shared with Daddy...

and Mei Lin.

And she got a new big girl bike she LOVES!

Birthday Breakfast

The Sweet Birthday Girl

Mei Lin is upset that she can't wear the "Birthday Girl" pin. This face is often seen on Mei Lin these days. Those lips are what first caught my eye in her referral photo...I saw them and knew I needed to kiss those lips.
H A P P Y B I R T H D A Y, S W E E T G I R L ! ! !

If Obama Wins

2008-10-29T17:10:00.006-05:00

I've been resisting any ideas of going political on my blog...aren't we all tired of this political season anyway? Please accept my apologies for adding to the information with which you've already been inundated, but I felt led to post this.

Let me start by saying that I don't condemn those who've had an abortion in the past. Many women make this difficult decision under much distress or under misleading information. I know there is forgiveness and healing for each of these situations, so I dont' mean to hurt anyone. This is a subject that is close to my heart so it's difficult to remain quiet.

While the war and the economy are the topics of concern for most voters, it's important to note that more lives have been lost as casualties of abortion than all American casualties of war throughout all of American history. And while we're all feeling the pinch financially, Obama would like to use your money to fund more abortions.

So here it is:

IF OBAMA WINS

-The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) will be signed into law eliminating 35 years of laws that have restricted and regulated the practice of abortion.

-He would very likely offer legislation to eliminate the Hyde Amendment which protects taxpaying citizens from being forced to pay for abortions through Medicaid.

-Abortion will be covered in his proposed national health care plan.

-The Mexico City Policy, which bars taxpayer funding of organizations that perform or promote abortions in foreign countries, would be eliminated.

-Funding for the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) would be restored, allowing millions of taxpayer dollars for abortions and forced sterilizations in Third World countries, including China with its coercive "one child" policy.

-The Born Alive Infants Protection Act and the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act would be overturned.

-Current restrictions on the performance of abortions on military bases would be removed.

The link to the info on partial birth abortion is rather graphic, but we all should be informed of the issues on which we're (essentially) voting. Abortion advocates use a misleading line about banning the practice "except when the health of the mother is in jeopardy," which is a catch-all for an unrestricted practice. The mother only has to claim the pregnancy is causing depression or a toothache for that matter to be excluded from the ban. The truth is, if the mother isn't healthy enough to give birth, she isn't healthy enough to give birth "paritially," as the baby is delivered except for the head which is...well, look for yourself. We should all be horrified and ashamed of a country that would allow such a practice! God help us!

Also, those of us who've heard and read about the horrible practice of forced abortion in countries such as China should be outraged that their $ could soon be funding such atrocities. My own daughters could have been victims of such a practice. In case you are unaware, women in China who have not received "permission" from the government to have a child (it isn't their turn to get pregnant) are sometimes taken from their homes and forced to abort their very loved and wanted child or are coerced to such a degree that there is no other choice.

I'll close with this from Princeton law professor Robert George:

Sen. Barack Obama is the most extreme pro-abortion legislator and presidential candidate ever. While this may sound like political hype, it's actually a matter of fact. As just one example of Obama's radical stance on abortion, he has promised that, if elected, his first order of White House business would be to sign the Freedom of Choice Act. This legislation is breathtaking in its implications, essentially eliminating numerous laws which have protected preborn babies for decades.

""Thirty years of effort on our part, in the pro-life movement, would be taken away in an instant by the passing of the Freedom of Choice Act. Evangelicals and Catholics who are supporting Obama should consider that they will be responsible ... if the Freedom of Choice Act is enacted."
- Robert George

Megan's 14th Birthday Party

2008-10-27T22:46:00.000-05:00

I never would have guessed that Megan would choose an ice skating party for her 14th birthday, but she did and I think the girls had a good time.

Miyah LOVED ice skating and wanted to skate all night.

Mei Lin...not so much. She chose to drink orange soda instead...and spill it all over her shirt. I'm not sure when this was taken because she fussed most of the night because Miyah got to skate and she didn't...even though she didn't want to skate. She has a reallly hard time doing anything without Miyah.

Megan's Dance Performance

2008-10-27T21:48:00.004-05:00

This Saturday Megan's dance company performed at the annual pumpkin festival in town. The girls danced beautifully.

Pumpkin Festival

2008-10-27T21:29:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday was the annual pumpkin festival in our little historic downtown. The street was packed full of families enjoying the beautiful fall weather.

Miyah and Mei Lin, of course, wanted to wear their costumes. They'll take any chance they can to be an animal in public.

Miyah's favorite animal is a lion and Mei Lin's is a tiger or "kitty". Originally Miyah chose a skunk costume, but then Nana sent the lion (along with a few others - thanks, Nana!) for her birthday and she forgot all about being a skunk.

Yes, Miyah's birthday isn't until Wednesday, but who can resist opening presents as they come in the mail? It spreads out the celebration a little.

And yes, Mei Lin is supposed to be a "kitty," which she still says with a "t"...as in, "I LOVE t*tties," or in the store "Mommy, look at that t*tty!" and now at Hallow*een... "I'm a t*tty!" Mortifying!

So, here are my little wildcats. Miyah was very sure she was the most ferocious lion at the festival. Don't you think so?

Girls with Daddy and the huge gourd.

PRAYERS NEEDED!

2008-10-27T13:18:00.001-05:00

Heather called me sometime this morning and left a message that I just now received.
SHE NEEDS OUR PRAYERS!

Heather is VERY SICK and hasn't eaten in three days. She sounded very weak and obviously is not doing well at all. She has started on the antibiotics she brought with her, but she said she would need to go to the doctor tomorrow (later today our time) if she wasn't better in the morning.

Please pray that she will be better when she wakes up and that she will NOT have to go to the doctor. Thankfully she's in Guangzhou now, so there are western trained doctors, but still not an ideal place for a doctor visit.

In case you haven't been following, Heather is in China with her 14 year old daughter, Whitney, and her husband had to come back to the states early. She said that Zion (2) is crying a lot and having a hard time adjusting to the new surroundings (hotel)...and probably to the fact that Heather is sick and not able to attend to him as he would like. Pray for Whitney as she helps her mother and her baby brother and for little Zion as he continues to adjust and grieve.
This is a really HARD situation that needs God's intervention.

Thank you. We'll keep you updated.

She Can Read!

2008-10-27T11:07:00.009-05:00

Mei Lin has known her letter sounds for several weeks now, so I had a suspicion she'd be able to read some simple words if I took the time to try with her. Well, this morning I put "HAT" on the chalkboard and she sounded each letter, then with a little help from me, she read the word!

Then she read CAT, MAT, SAT, FAT, RAT, PAT, and BAT all on her own! I have to give most of the credit to the Leap Frog Letter Factory DVD that's been playing in the van. I figure if we spend hours in the van each day, we might as well use it to some advantage...she's quiet AND she's learning!

Mei Lin will be three in January, so I don't expect she'll get much farther than three letter words for a while, but it does open up new avenues for keeping her occupied during the school day. Happy Phonics, here we come!

Since we're on the subject, another great DVD I forgot to mention in my homeschool post a while back is Mathtacular by Sonlight! I would never have thought it, but my girls LOVE it! It's cheesy and low-budget, but either it's entertaining enough or they're geeky enough math lovers to want to watch it over and over...and over again. Miyah (my almost 5 year old) can count to practically infinity, counts by 2's, 5's, tens, and she's always had a natural affinity for adding, but now we find sheets of paper with math equations all over the house...like a little John Nash, Jr. (the guy from A Beautiful Mind). The paper I found this morning said 10+10=20, 20+10=30, 8+8=16, 7+7=14...and so on. Sometimes there's a wrong one, but mostly they're right, which actually scares me a bit.

Enough bragging...I KNOW your kid is smarter...so sorry to be an obnoxiously proud mama today.

On an unrelated matter, go check out Heather's little guy Zion on Heather's blog...OMG, he is SO adorable! Heather could use some prayer and well wishes as she's sick in China and without her husband...and it was her birthday yesterday! He's actually very smart, too. He was saying, "I love YOU!" on the phone the other day...just five days after hearing his first English word. It sounds like he's talking really well!

I'm hoping to update soon on our busy weekend. Until later...have a blessed day!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-23T22:49:00.004-05:00

Family Time

2008-10-23T22:16:00.001-05:00

Last Friday was fall break for the kids, so Pat took the day off and we all went to lunch and bowling. We played "little bowling" because the regular lanes were very full, but we all had fun. Sadly, it's rather rare that we're all together for an entire day, so this was a treat.

Mei Lin loved bowling. She has two techniques: the shot put and the squat and push. Neither was packed with much gusto and the ball just barely made it to the pins.

Happy Fall!

Prayers Needed to Bring Cali Home

2008-10-21T08:25:00.004-05:00

Sweet Cali

Please be praying for my friend Liesl who is desperately trying to get her baby girl home from China. The paperwork situation is complicated, but basically the US immi*gration office is dragging its feet (for no apparent reason) and documents are expiring and need to be processed in a timely manner. You can read her blog to get a better picture of the situation!

Her Cali is living in Kunming (Mei Lin's orphanage), she has mild CP and will be 2.5 soon. She really needs her mommy and daddy and they are afraid they may not be able to adopt her if things don't move quickly. It's such a tragedy when bureaucracy and technicalities get in the way of bringing a family together and changing the life of a beautiful little girl.

Pumpkin Day

2008-10-19T14:54:00.010-05:00

Two days before my friend, Heather, left for China, she decided to whip up a little pumpkin unit study for a group of eight kids. Don't ask me how she does it because I don't know. But I do have several theories: God has given her more than the 24 hour day He's given me...or, She doesn't sleep...or the most likely is that she's cloned herself.

Anyway, here's a glimpse of the multitude of activities all conjured up by one of Heather's clones...

Heather prayed with the kids thanking God for the gift of pumpkins and our beautiful autumn, We also prayed for little Claire, who was having surgery that morning (and BTW, she's going in for another procedure tomorrow, so please be praying for her...I'll be going to the hospital with Angela early tomorrow morning).

The big kids made a little pumpkin book and the little ones did some shape and color activities.

Sweet Corinne
The kids had pumpkin bread and pumpkin shakes for snack! (Elizabeth)
Stefanie painted the girls nails with sparkly orange polish (Mei Lin).
The kids fingerpainted pumpkins .

Heather had a little project for us moms to do, too.

Zoe played with our toy computer all morning
"Gutting" the pumpkin to count the seeds.

Counting by tens. Elizabeth guessed closest....the pumpkin had something like 536 seeds!
Lunch - mostly orange and yellow.
Treat bags
Sweet friends.... Elizabeth and Miyah.

SHE'S 14!

2008-10-16T23:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday, Megan!!

We are so proud of the young woman you've become.

Megan is very easy-going and sweet spirited.

She's kind, caring, compassionate, and generous.

We are so blessed.

Thank you, Megan, for being you!

(Now if we could only get her to comply with picture-taking!)

~~~

Yesterday I kidnapped Megan for a lunch and shopping date....sans little ones! I took the camera along, but she refused to let me get any pictures...imagine that!

Today we celebrated her birthday at noon so Matt could be included in the festivities.

Silly girl! Zoe is staying with us for a bit while her parents are in China to adopt her new little brother. She is doing so well. She's the sweetest little angel. At meals and bedtime she says a prayer of thanks that she's able to have sleepovers with Miyah and Mei Lin. Isn't that sweet!

Fourteen seems like way too many candles (which you can tell the little girls helped put on the cake). It was just four years ago she was having parties at Build*a*Bear. This year her party with friends is being postponed a week until her friend, Hannah, can make it back from her mission trip in Nicaragua.

Please Pray for Claire

2008-10-13T00:39:00.003-05:00

UPDATE: Clare's surgery went well. They found out that she may possibly need two more procedures to straighten her legs, but they are already much improved. Continue to keep her in your prayers as she heals and rehabs ove the months ahead.

~~~
Our friends, Richard and Angela covet your prayers today for their daughter, Clare.

Little Miss Claire will be having surgery on her knees and hips this morning.
Please pray for her, her parents, and the doctors. The hope and prayer is that this surgery will give Claire the ability to walk some day soon. Regardless of the outcome, we know God has amazing plans for this tough, but sweet little girl.

SURPRISE!

2008-10-13T00:33:00.003-05:00

She says she doesn't like surprises...but I think we've proved otherwise!!
/(me, Angela, Jo, Amy, and Heather)
Friday night some friends and I surprised Heather with a Birthday/Zion Shower at PF Changs. Heather leaves in two days to get her absolutely adorable little guy!!

We can't wait to meet him. He's about five months younger than Mei Lin and I'm guessing they'll be great friends.

Harvest Time Fun

2008-10-09T22:14:00.008-05:00

Today we experienced a little of what nineteenth century harvest time was like at a local antebellum plantation.

~~~

Who knew candle dipping took so much patience. I think the kids would have stood there a long time, but we had to settle for a tiny birthday candle size because others were waiting in line.

I think the llama sensed Miyah's love for animals. The pottery guy (I'm sure there's a better name for him) was very interesting. I love the copycatting-hands on hips.

I'm pretty sure nineteenth century children didn't find these chores as exciting as my children did.

Miyah helped the blacksmith.
I think the kids actually had the most fun playing in the leaves. I LOVE FALL!

(Wyatt and Gytis below)
Wyatt

S'MORES

2008-10-09T01:00:00.005-05:00

Patrice and Richard invited some friends over for dinner and a bonfire on Sunday. We all had a sweet (and sticky) time.
XXXX
Patrice's goats. Don't they have pretty ears, Jo? (LOL)

Mei Lin is holding "Min the Monkey"...soon to be Zion's (Min) monkey. Scott, Heather, and their daughter, Whitney, leave for China next week to get their son, Zion. Min the Monkey will be traveling along in a sort of "Where's Waldo" sort of way. Check out their blog at Adopting Zion.

Pumpkin Pottery Painting

2008-10-09T00:53:00.002-05:00

Miyah, Elizabeth, and Wyatt took a pottery class last Friday. They all loved it. The teacher gave them clay to make the leaves, then they painted the pumpkin, which is actually a bird feeder.

Elizabeth Miyah
Wyatt

"Apple" Orchard

2008-10-09T00:35:00.000-05:00

Our field trip to the apple orchard was quite the cultural experience, as you'll see below. Can you believe this was our first pig race??

The girls LOVED the corn bin, a giant box full of corn kernels. Believe it or not, I'm still finding kernels in my clothes dryer.

Considering there were less than a dozen apple trees, and NO apples for sale, I'd call this more of a pumpkin patch with a few apple trees. But we did have fun!

On the drive home, the tobacco barn caught this Yankee's eye.

All tuckered out...

Notice Mei Lin's slightly-open eyes. This is how she sleeps. Sometimes it's hard to tell if she's awake or asleep.

Training for the races! The orchard gave the girls "Fun Dips" to help illustrate pollination. The girls were pretending the stick was the bee's legs gathering the pollen. Apparently fingers work better than "legs."

Just a sweet picture. My little bedheaded beauty.

Walking for Healthy Hearts

2008-10-04T23:19:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we had the privelage of walking in the American Heart Association's fundraising walk in honor of the girls' friends, Anna and Susannah.

These little signs graced our stroller as we trekked through the city...

Susannah' Surgery and Homecoming

2008-09-30T23:20:00.007-05:00

Susannah's surgery went well today, PRAISE GOD!! Thank you all for your prayers.

Just to ensure you understand what a little miracle this girl is, I must explain a few things.

Before this surgery, her oxygen levels were SOOO very low...like, we would be passed out, or worse! Her monitor read as low as in the 20s while I was in her room. And to add to the miracle, after nearly three years of dangerously low oxygen levels, her organs are all functioning well without sustaining any significant damage. There's just no explanation for her condition, except that God has been sustaining this amazing girl's life.

Her life and the love of her adoptive family is a beautiful picture of God's love for us, even with our broken, damaged, and sometimes hardened heart...He loves us and desires to have a relationship with us even when we prefer our independence and want nothing to do with Him (Susannah is finally coming around to letting her mommy love on her a bit...thank you God for answered prayer!). Susannah's life, just like little Anna's whom we just lost, is a picture of redemption and of life not wasted. Many thought she'd gone too long without the necessary medical help she needed, but God has shown us, it's never too late to come to him with a broken heart. He's always waiting for us to turn to him and open our arms wide. In our imperfections, he sees PERFECTION! Amazing, beautiful perfection.

Susannah's oxygen is in the 90s today...her little feet and legs are no longer blue.
Go take a look at those beautiful, pink toes over at her blog and read how she's doing.
~~~
Here are a few pictures from her homecoming one week ago tonight (9/2). She's only been in the US for a week and she and her family have gone through so much. Please continue to pray for them.

Zoe and Wyatt with their signs. Their mom, Heather, had a picture poster made for everyone to sign.

Mei Lin

We all lined up on both sides of the driveway, anxiously awaiting Charlie, Leslie, and Susannah. It was a beautiful, candlelit homecoming.

Susannah and Mei Lin are from the same orphanage in Kunming, and only three months apart. We couldn't resist the sign (above).

Megan and friends.

Renee holding Miyah (who is wearing a lion mask atop her head) and holding the sign she made herself.

Heather, Stefanie, Angela, and me.

The family arrives home! They have the sweetest photo of Susannah holding her brothers' hands...you can see it on their blog.

Please Pray for Susannah and Her Family Today

2008-09-30T09:00:00.002-05:00

Little Susannah goes in for her very complicated heart surgery today. Please be praying for her and her family throughout the days and weeks ahead, but especially today while she's in surgery. It will be a long procedure and I know my friends will be pacing the halls of the hospital until they hear that their baby is okay.

Sunday Night Football

2008-09-21T23:53:00.001-05:00

Football.
I'll never really understand it. It's the #1 topic of conversation between Pat and his buddies. Within 5 minutes of walking into church one of his friends will strike up a conversation about it.

It's honestly like a foreign language to me. Tonight Pat invited some guys from church over to watch the game on the screen outside. Apparently the Packers played the Cowboys and that had some significance to the guys.
~~~
Pat sent an email out to his church buddies with this photo and comment:
"Another example of reconciliation. Only in the body of Christ can Cheesehead's and Heidi's get along and embrace our differences."

Ken and my littlest Cheesehead.

Another Birthday

2008-09-20T23:05:00.003-05:00

I had another wonderful (?#?) birthday today...stick around and maybe you'll find out how old I am this year! Last night I went out to dinner with some friends, slept until noon today, had a family dinner with cake and then Pat and I went to a movie later tonight. I had a great time! Thank you to all my sweet family and friends.

My family is brave. They gave me a new camera lense (the 50 mm!!), vouchers for photography classes, and a subscription to a photography magazine...surely they must realize this means I'm going to take even MORE pictures! It seems the 50mm lets in a lot more light (I'm such a novice), so I'm trying to get used to it. Here's a few photos (ha!...you know me better than that) with the new lens. I'm getting more anxious for the photography classes...I just need time to take them.

Okay, so I'm 36 this year! I'm now closer to 40 than 30, but I still feel 20...and that's what counts, right?? Somebody??

Cherished Gifts

2008-09-17T20:50:00.001-05:00

Sweet Grace gave Miyah and Mei Lin two of Anna's stuffed animals. We'll cherish them forever. They're a wonderful way to be reminded of Anna.
Thanks, Grace...and Anna.

Zoo Day

2008-09-16T16:19:00.000-05:00

Today we met up with Anne and Elizabeth for a homeschool class at the zoo. We picniced, rode the carousel, went to the class, and visited the petting area.

Mei Lin, Elizabeth, and Miyah

Mei Lin is a serious student. She kept telling other children, "SHHH!" when they weren't quiet while the teacher was talking....so why isn't she quiet for me while I'm teaching them?? Could it have more to do with her penchant for bossiness? Hmm...
Pretending to be dinosaurs...right up my girls' alley.
Touching a snake. Mommy passed on this one.
I hope you don't mind if I change the subject...here's what I found in my kitchen....Just Kidding!
Beautiful Friends
They are so sweet together.

The Wheels Are in Motion

2008-09-16T09:40:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: Leslie is back on the blog and it isn't private any longer!
http://www.roomforatleastonemore.blogspot.com/

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Keep praying for Leslie and Charlie and little Susannah. I know everyone is concerned for them, especially because their blog has gone private. Many have emailed me with questions.

All I can tell you is according to a friend who spoke with Leslie last night, the wheels are in motion for Susannah to get the care she needs, but there are still mountains that need to be moved so this can happen. Bureaucracy is always a huge obstacle.

So please keep praying.

I believe they had to go private because they don't want to jeopardize her care right now. The country they're working with likes to save face and organizations working there have to be careful. I think they're wise to keep things under wraps for a bit.

Thank you all for your prayers.

More URGENT Prayer Needed!

2008-09-16T08:18:00.003-05:00

Today, friends, I have another very, very urgent prayer request for you all. My friend, Leslie, is in China right now (Kunming - where our Mei Lin is from) trying to bring her very, very sick Susannah home. Leslie just walked with Jo and Tony a bit during their loss of Anna and they are desperate that they won't lose their Susannah.

I can't begin to imagine how difficult this time must be for them! They desperately need our prayers.

PLEASE find some time today to bring them before God!

Their blog is: http://www.roomforatleastonemore.blogspot.com/

Thank you!

Doggy Skeletons

2008-09-15T15:53:00.000-05:00

When Miyah was three, she began asking a lof questions about our bones after seeing a skeleton hanging in a party store at Hallow*een. So I thought my little scientist would love these glow in the dark pajamas...and I was right. They came in the same box as the doggy hats...so, what better combination than skeletons and puppies?

(I actually bought them at two different stores because Gym*boree was out of Miyah's size. $8 at Gym*boree and $22 at Gap!!...BUT, only because I had a Gap gift card!).

This is Miyah's fierce animal face...she was growling at me. I think she morphed into a lion at this point. She's still a new animal every day or every hour as she feels moved, and of course Mei Lin has to be like her big sister and play animal pretend, as well....

....when she's not a ferocious tiger, she's a sweet kitty.

Happy 4th Birthday, Presleigh!!

2008-09-14T17:25:00.000-05:00

The girls had a great time at Presleigh's birthday party today. They got to play at the Little Gy*m and they loved every minute of it.

Happy Birthday, Sweet Presleigh!

Remaining Forever Hopeful

2008-09-13T23:40:00.011-05:00

Many of you know that we've been grieving with our friends, Jo and Tony, who lost their sweet little Anna just a little over two weeks ago.

I haven't wanted to post for a while.

What do you say?

Tonight I guess I felt like I needed to write that God is GOOD, even when we can't possibly understand the present circumstances. He IS GOOD....ALL the time.

Yesterday Jo and I were talking about all the questions that we'll never have answered this side of heaven...I've had a running list this year...but she made a great point that I hadn't even been able to get to yet.

She said, "But when I get to heaven, I'm going to see Jesus, and then I'm going to see my Anna, and none of those questions will even matter anymore."

And she's so right!

I've stopped saving my list of questions or even formulating them in my mind anymore...it's wasted energy. It may not make the hurt any less, but it sure does ease the angst and frustration. It helps me focus on God's goodness and live with a greater TRUST in my God who now I know can see me through anything.

Too many little ones have passed away this year.

Besides Jo and Tony, my sister Tammy lost her little boy, Trent, earlier this year due to a miscarriage; and you all remember that the Chapmans lost their little Maria Sue.

These families have had and will continue to have hard, hard, hard days. Days that every parent prays they will never live.

But they all know an amazing God. I've watched in amazement at God's hand in each of their lives. He's been merciful and so real in so many ways. He is close to the brokenhearted. He is their refuge and strength. Again, it doesn't make the pain go away, but His hand is sustaining. God is holding them as they cling to Him and to the certainty that they will have eternity to spend with Him and with their little ones. And while they sometimes need ministering, more often they're ministering to others in the abundance of grace God is giving them!

Don't you stand amazed at our God?

I could tell you stories about lives that have been changed by Anna, about "signs" from God/Anna that have shown up everywhere...but maybe another time. Just know that without a doubt, God has made Anna's short life a testament to His greatness. And He wants to do that through each of us.

I entitled this post "Remaining Forever Hopeful" because 2 1/2 weeks ago while Anna was fighting for her life, I had written a post on Anna's blog entitled "Remaining Hopeful," and that hope hasn't gone with Anna's passing. Anna wasn't healed the way we hoped she'd be healed, but she's healed and whole in her Father's arms, and her family remains forever hopeful that they will see her again.

And each of us can "Remain Forever Hopeful" if we've given our lives to Him. In light of eternity, there's nothing ever to fear. Praise God, this life isn't all there is and death doesn't have the final say.

A Kung Fu Autumn Moon Festival!

2008-09-13T20:26:00.000-05:00

Tonight we celebrated the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival (a Chinese/Asian holiday) with some friends. We invited several families to join us for a cookout and to watch Kung Fu Panda outdoors on the projector.

Don't ask me how we were able to watch Kung Fu Panda before it came out on video...but it has something to do with my sister (thanks, Tracy) who just came home from China and the special movies they sell there :). Here are some pictures taken by Heather, our official event photographer...

Above: My amazing, beautiful friends.
(Back from L: Amy, Anne, Me, Teresa. Front from L: Stefanie, Jo, and Heather)
Corinne
Jacob, Wyatt, and Blake
Mei Lin
Grace
Pat using the "dinner gong." Who would have known my Pier 1 decoration would come in handy.
Isabella
The blonde boys' blanket
Elizabeth
I knew Whitney would be disappointed if I didn't include this.
Watching Kung Fu Panda

Practicing their Kung Fu skills.Miyah, Wyatt, Mei Lin, and Zoe

Homeschooling

2008-09-11T21:40:00.000-05:00

I've had a few internet friends ask what curriculum we use to homeschool and/or how we actually do it. Most want to know how I school the little ones. My 13 year old is still homeschooled, but most of her classes are at a tutorial, so here's a little peek into our homeschool day with a kindergartener (Miyah-almost 5) and a preschooler (Mei Lin-2.75)...

Every morning we start our day with prayer and a Bible story. We are using Rod and Staff's "Bible Stories to Read," which also comes with a coloring book with a coloring page for each story. Here's Miyah's page she painted...it's Job.

The girls are memorizing Bible verses using the CD "Sing the Word from A-Z." Each week we learn a new verse beginning with Mei Lin's letter of the week.

Then we have "calendar time" when we talk about what month and day it is today, what the weather is like, what the season is, and then list/sing all the days of the week, months of the year, seasons, and count the days of the month.
Miyah is using Handwriting Without Tears. This is our first year trying this program and I prefer it over others we've tried. Here she's using her sponge to mark over the letter "M" on the board.

She also uses her small chalkboard to write and then wipe-off her letters. I don't know what it is about the chalk and sponge thing, but both the girls love it. After some practice with chalk and sponge, she writes the letter in her handwriting book several times.
For Phonics we're using both Happy Phonics and Alpha Phonics this year. Happy Phonics is all hands-on games and activities while Alpha Phonics is a (boring, but essential) reader. We also do a bit of Explode the Code along with the Happy Phonics. Here's Miyah doing a Happy Phonics activity. She picked a picture card and put a sentence together..."The pig is not in the pen."

And here she is reading her Alpha Phonics lesson. She protested about this new reader so I decided to use one of my better parenting tools and began giving her a "surprise" (a sweet snack) when she's finished with her lesson...bribery will get you everywhere. Now it's the first thing she wants to do after Bible and calendar :).

Another Happy Phonics exercise.

We're also doing Singapore Math (earlybird books), and K12 for history and science. My girls are LOVING K12 for history and science (the kindergarten courses) and I love them, too.

I'm also asked how I keep my 2 year old busy. Great question because I was wondering how I'd do it, too.

I did a little research and got some great tips from other homeschool moms. I put together some ziploc bags of activities for her to pull out. Each week we highlight a new letter for Mei Lin and she does different activities with that letter each day. She also has math activities, puzzles, etc.

~
Here she is playing with the cuisenaire rods and making things that begin with "C." She also colored and covered the letter "C" with her rods.

She likes to wipe off letters on the board, too.

Or play with puzzles.

This one is fun. I draw a letter on black paper with chalk. With a towel under the paper, she pokes holes on the "C" with a push pin. Hold the paper up to the window and the light shines through! Great for strengthening those finger muscles and helping identify her letter.

She's picking up some phonics from her big sister's Happy Phonics. She's pointing the letters "SH" and telling me, "Sh!"

She puts stickers on the letter of the week.

There's her sticker "C"

And actinig crazy keeps her busy for a long time!

She also likes the paint daubers and paints her letter, or plays with pattern blocks, or strings beads, etc.

Another common question: Where do you school? Everyone does it differently. We don't have anything fancy, in fact, it's rather small, but it works for us. We carved out a little area in our bonus/rec room for two small tables and a bookcase or two for our things. We once had a designated school room, but we gave that up so Pat could have a home office for work.

This is a cheap little shelving unit from Target....like $40 or so. I LOVE it! Thanks, Heather, for the idea. Heather actually has hers on wheels and has charts, calendars, etc. on the back and sides. She wheels hers into her school area in the dining room each day...clever!

This is my 10th year homeschooling and people say to me all the time, "I don't know how you do it. I could never home school!" And it's true, teaching your children is not easy, but I've done it both ways and I actually think homeschooling is the easier choice for me. I'm not saying it's the best choice for everyone, but it is easier for me and I feel it's the best for my kids at this time.

I love having my children at home all day...most of the time. And those times when we are butting heads, I know there's a lesson there for both of us...we're learning how to get along because we know we have no choice but to resolve our issues.

I'VE learned so much spending these days with my kids. We've had many hard, frustrating, "I'm sending them back to school!" days, but we've learned so much together, have grown closer, and have some wonderful memories thanks to homeschooling.
Megan doing her homework outside on the deck.

A Visit from My Sister

2008-09-09T21:00:00.000-05:00

Chad, Tammy, and Alyssa

(their two grown sons were not traveling with them)

My sister stopped by for a couple of days on her way to our parent's house. It was so nice to see them and to catch up for a while even though we didn't do much while they were here. Sadly, I did a very poor job of taking photos during their visit.

The girls LOVED Uncle Chad...I'm pretty sure they wore him out with hide 'n seek! He seemed to enjoy the attention though.

Mei Lin is sad to say goodbye to Uncle Chad. She still says "I miss Unco Tad."

Anna's Blog

2008-08-27T12:50:00.001-05:00

I'm posting updates over at Praying for Anna. Please pass it on and PLEASE continue to pray. Thank you!

Urgent Prayer Needed!

2008-08-25T20:21:00.005-05:00

(Anna - 2 1/2)

My dear friends Tony and Jo adopted little Anna from China two months ago with a known heart condition (pulmonary and aortic stenosis). Anna has been stable and healthy since coming home and the doctors suspected she wouldn't need any major surgeries anytime soon. This morning she went in for a heart catheterization to give the doctors a better look inside her heart.
Jo, Anna's mom, called me this morning to say that they nearly lost Anna on the table toward the end of the procedure when her blood pressure plummeted. After 45 minutes of CPR they were able to bring her back and she is on life support in the PICU. They believe that even though her heart wasn't beating on its own for a long period, they were able to keep the oxygen levels stable during resuscitation. Pray that she pulls out of this and that her little body hasn’t sustained any damage. These next few hours, in particular, are very critical for her.

Please, please pray for little Anna and her family (Tony, Jo, and big sister Grace who is 4). Jo and Tony have asked that prayers be concentrated on Anna, but I know they need prayer, too. They've been through so much these last couple of months and I just have to trust that God will not give them more than they can handle in His strength. We serve an amazing God; please call on Him for little Anna’s sake and pass this on to any prayer chains and prayer warriors you may know.

(Anna's precious little toes)

My Three Girls

2008-08-22T21:19:00.026-05:00

I took the camera outside at dusk last night and even though it was too dark for good pictures, I had fun taking shots of the girls playing in the yard.

"Girls, where's the camera?" I said, trying to get them both to look at me at the same time...this is the response I got...
Beautiful Megan

Little peanut...

For a moment just before dark, the sky was an amazing blue....
Daddy/daughter bonding time....

I fondly remember my three sisters and I wrestling with my dad as a little girl, so I wanted to capture one of these moments with our girls. Miyah and Mei Lin will often say, "Daddy, I have a secret..." and then whisper, "steamroller!" in his ear. This is their way of asking him to play what they call "steamroller" which is kind of like play wrestling and if he agrees to play, they run into the living room giggling.
Mei Lin stringing beads during "school".

Hannah came to play last Wednesday!

The Chapmans in the Media Again

2008-08-21T19:05:00.002-05:00

I'm sure by now you've seen the recent interviews with Stephen and Mary Beth Chapman...Good Morning America, Larry King Live, and People magazine...if you haven't you must to do a YouTube* search and pick up this week's copy of People. I also just found out they'll be on Focus on the Family tomorrow sharing their story of adopting Shaohannah (this may be a re-airing of an earlier interview) and next week they'll be sharing about their loss of Maria. You can find your local station airing the broadcast by clicking HERE. Here's a little blurb....

Steven Curtis Chapman on Adoption

There are 150 million orphans around the world - have you ever thought about adopting one? Today's broadcast will encourage you to consider the possibility as recording artist Steven Curtis Chapman shares how he and his wife, Mary Beth, adopted a baby girl named Shaohannah from an orphanage in China. You'll want to tune in next week, too, as Chapman returns to our broadcast studio to discuss the recent death of his daughter Maria Sue, and how faith in God has sustained the Chapman family in the wake of this tragic loss.

"Caring for orphans at any level, I believe, is the most visible picture of the Gospel we'll ever see or show to the world around us."
- Steven Curtis Chapman

Back to School

2008-08-19T21:50:00.004-05:00

I can't believe how old she's getting! Last week Megan started her 8th grade year at her tutorial. It'll be a busy fall for her...she's at tutorial two days a week, and is homeschooled the other three days, but we'll only do math, geography, and a civics unit study at home this year. She's also dancing five days a week this year and is partipating in the dance company. She loves her new dance studio and will be able to have Miss Becky (from her previous studio) teach her one day a week. Miss Becky is such a blessing to have as a mentor and we're glad to keep her:). If you've read Megan's post about her dance intensive this summer, there's no doubt she's passionate about dancing...you can also read Becky's post about the intensive. She has such a heart for these young girls.

~~~.

Miyah and Mei Lin had their first day of school today, but we're just easing into it with a few subjects. Miyah isn't technically old enough for kindergarten (5 late in October), but the beauty of homeschooling is that we don't go by age and grades, but plug away at what she's ready to learn. And she loves her new schoolwork and loves to call me "teacher" all day long.

Mei Lin is only 2 1/2 but she can (or tries to) participate in quite a bit, though sometimes we simply have to find things to occupy her. She wants to do EVERYTHING Miyah does, but she's just not able.

The girls' good friend and neighbor, Ella, was here and it made our first day all the better. They did Bible, calendar, math, and science together.

Matt's at school camp this week and begins classes next week. I'll have to post his first-day picture...if he lets me take one

Happy Back-to-School to you all!

Beijing Olympics

2008-08-19T21:13:00.009-05:00

November 2004 ~ In front of the Olympic Countdown Ticker
In case you can't read it, we were in Beijing 1,371 days, 10 hours, 30 minutes, and 15 seconds before the lighting of the torch (though we wanted to, we didn't get a shot in front of the ticker in '07).

~~~

Like most of you, we've enjoyed watching the olympics...or I should say the "Beijing Olympics" as Miyah and Mei Lin consistently refer to it. Miyah (and all of us) gets excited when she sees some of the popular tourist attractions and remembers visiting them last year. And now she's making plans to become on olympian...I think she's settled on the trampoline because it looks fun. She saw the girls doing all the twists and twirls and said, "I'm going to do that some day and go to the Beijing Olympics." She's going to be surprised when the next olympics aren't in China.

Here are the shots we took of the olympic facilities being built back in March '07...

The "Ice Cube" and "Bird Nest"

Part of the olympic village.

We were amazed at row, upon row, upon row (seemed like miles) of temporary housing for the workers building all these facilities. How many Chinese does it take to build an olympic village? Apparently a lot!

Time with Friends

2008-08-10T22:14:00.016-05:00

"Every good thing is better if you can share it with a friend."

Pam Brown

~~~

The last couple of weeks, we've caught up with a few friends we haven't seen much this busy summer.

~
Friday, Heather and her kids came over to watch the opening ceremonies of the olympics with us. Heather will be traveling to China in a month or so to get her little guy, so we couldn't pass up an opportunity to celebrate with Chinese food...weren't the opening ceremonies amazing?

Whitney made us this awesome olympic cookie. Chinese food and chocolate chip cookies are strangely complimentary, I think.

Pat and Matt went on a rafting trip with the men from church, so Heather and her daughter, Whitney, spent the night and helped me paint and decorate Miyah and Mei Lin's room. Actually, Heather did so much of the work. She's incredible! Like the Energizer bunny...she's always at least five steps ahead of me. She did such an amazing job painting, sawing, drilling, sewing a cute little valance, and helping me decide on fabrics and colors. Thank you, Heather!!

We ordered bunk beds since we think Miyah's old enough to sleep on the top bunk now. It will be a huge surprise because she's been begging for bunk beds for nearly a year. I'll take some photos once the bunks are in the room and all the finishing touches have been made on Heather's masterpiece.

(Below) Whitney and Megan helped, too!

Never a dull moment.

Megan, Heather, Whitney

~~~

Earlier last week we had a playdate with my friend, Stefanie, and her kids. I grabbed my camera when the kids headed out into her abundant garden. They picked and ate tomatoes and strawberries, and we got bagfuls of goodies to take home.

Stefanie's sweet Davis.

~~~
The week before we introduced Mei Lin to her new friend, Anna. Anna (Grace's new baby sister) came home from China in June and we couldn't wait to get them together. Anna has a heart defect and goes in for a heart cath. in a couple weeks, so please keep her in your prayers.

Mei Lin and Anna playing together.

Miyah and Grace are always up to something.

Don't mess with the Supergirls!
~~~
And earlier that week, we met up with Anne and Elizabeth for lunch at the mall and playtime in the play area.

I had to throw this in...Miyah drew this little rabbit on her magna doodle a few weeks ago. Isn't he cute?

Ah, all caught up. I've been trying to prepare for the new school year so haven't had much time to post. Our fall schedule looks crazy, so I'm not sure I'll be a great blogger for a while, but hopefully we'll get some first day of school photos in the next couple of weeks.

Happy Back-to-School to you all!

18th Anniversary Getaway

2008-08-10T21:42:00.006-05:00

Pat planned a little getaway for us last weekend for our anniversary (which was in July). We realized this was the first time in four years the two of us got away by ourselves and that we definitely need to do that more often.

We had so much fun relaxing on the beach and at the pool for three days.

I actually finished a book!

I was a little worried because Mei Lin still doesn't like it when we leave, but she did great with Pat's mom. They did art projects, saw a movie, went out to eat, and stayed very busy. Apparently she didn't miss us until day three and only mentioned it in a matter of fact tone! Thank you, Nancy, for your wonderful care of the children. We didn't worry about them at all.

My private little spot on the beach. Ah, I want to go back already.

Our attempt at a photo together - Scary.

Pat, enjoying his rental upgrade.

The ONLY thing the girls wanted us to bring them back was a big lollipop and they asked us about them every time we talked to them. Believe it or not, they're not easy to find and we had to make a stop at Cracker Barrel on our way home. Oh, were they excited!

Can You Help?

2008-07-28T09:26:00.011-05:00

How would you like to use that toilet everyday? This is the "bathroom" the children share at the Shizong Orphanage in Yunnan, China.

It looks awful, but what's worse and what the photo doesn't tell you is that the SMELL is unbearable in that little room because the "squatty" doesn't flush. Can you imagine the filth and disease?

The children don't have a warm shower, just a hose pipe in the ceiling, which you can imagine doesn't get used much, especially in the winter months. There's no sinks to wash their hands and faces or brush their teeth.

The children at Shizong will live every day of their childhood in this place without much, if any, hope of being adopted because there is no international adoption program for this orphanage. The conditions here are deplorable. There's just no money and the kids suffer greatly.

But there IS good news! My friend, Jeannie, is raising money to build a new bathroom facility for the children in Shizong and she needs to raise $5,000.

If you could, please go over to her blog and donate $10 or so to give these children a healthier environment.

Click on: Annabelle's Wish

Thank you!

Beach Getaway

2008-07-23T08:43:00.012-05:00

Megan spent two weeks at the beach with Hannah and her family. She had the best time! Here are a few photos...

Megan and Hannah

I'm sure she's talking to me...tellingme how much she misses me;)

I have no explanation for this...
Boogie boarding

BTW, I've caught up on the last couple of weeks with about a million posts and pictures below...

Following Frosty Footprints

2008-07-23T02:13:00.003-05:00

Today while I was reading a book to Miyah on a totally unrelated subject she said,

Miyah: "I had a dream that there was frost on the ground and I was following God and walking right behind him in his footprints on our side street. I went wherever He went."

Me: "Wow, what a beautiful dream! What was that like?"

Miyah: "It was nice, I was smiling the whole time."

She also said that he wore a blue shirt and blue pants.

I told her I would write down those details so she could always remember the special dream that God gave her.

I don't remember if I've ever had a dream where I've "seen" God. How about you?

Wyatt's Adoption Day Celebration

2008-07-22T22:57:00.007-05:00

Sweet, Adorable Wyatt...Happy Family Day!

Yesterday we had lunch (and batman cupcakes!) with Heather and her two youngest, Wyatt and Zoe, to celebrate Wyatt's 2nd adoption/family day.

Sweet, Beautiful "Zo Bow" (Zoe)

One Berry, Two Berry, Pick Me a....

2008-07-18T23:16:00.000-05:00

BLUEBERRY!!

(Sweaty) Me with the Girls

Zoe, Heather, and Wyatt

Zoe, Miyah, Wyatt, Mei Lin

The kids had so much fun blueberry picking, but it was A LOT more work than we'd expected. Heather commented, "Now I know why blueberries are $5/lb at the store!"...they're a lot of work. And it was hot. But the kids had a great time and Miyah later said, "This is the best day in my whole life."

We went home and made blueberry pancakes for lunch!

Mei Lin fell asleep in the van, so Miyah and I had time together to read "Jamberry" and "Blueberries for Sal" while we ate our scrumptious pancakes.

Happy Adoption Day, Zoe!!

2008-07-15T23:43:00.000-05:00

We celebrate Zoe's adoption day with her today. The girls decorated adorable mermaid cupcakes that Zoe's creative, energetic mama made.

Hannah was over playing with the girls while her mom took Claire to the doctor, so it was an especially wonderful playdate/party.

Miyah and Hannah

(BELOW) Can you spy all four guys sleeping in my family room?
Matt and his friends make their rounds to a different friend's house most nights of the week, playing video games until dawn...and we were next on the rotation, I guess.
These boys slept in the family room until 1:15 PM while four little girls and three adults were going about normal business. If you look at the picture above, the girls are nearly in the same room as the boys, making all kinds of racket. The exhausted XBox-playing adolescence didn't even flinch.
But that's not even the most incredible part. The two guys sharing our couch are each about 6'6" tall. And Andrew and Matt are on the floor looking like Stretch (Andrew's upper body and Matt's lower).

Ahh, to be young again!

Cushions!

2008-07-14T01:29:00.001-05:00

My girls have a fascination with the couch cushions. They'll be quietly (yeah, right) playing something and one will say, "Cushions!" and they'll both run into the living room and tear the cushions off of the couch and start jumping and sliding and just plain carousing! It's like their own Gymb@ree right in the house.
And every once in a while Matt decides to get in on the action, too.

It's a good thing I hate my couch and love seat. I'm kind of hoping something will "accidentally" happen to them (sh!).

Enough horsing around...time for studying

It's Tough Being Human

2008-07-13T20:43:00.005-05:00

Yesterday the girls were laughing and playing so carefree...they're always so full of joy, and I stopped to soak up some of the joy that radiates from them.

Then I said to Miyah, "It's nice to be you, isn't it?" and she suddenly stopped and said rather seriously,

"No, I wish I were an animal."

Happy 29th(??) Birthday, Chris!

2008-07-12T23:08:00.001-05:00

Tonight we went to Chris' surprise party...he's turning 29...again.

(Angel and Chris)
The girls love to go over to Miss Angel and Mr. Chris' house because it's so kid-friendly, has an awesome pool, and the girls always leave with a little bag-full of candy:).

We all had a great time!

Fourth (and Fifth) of July

2008-07-10T14:02:00.033-05:00

I hope you're ready for a lotta red, white, and blue!

We love the 4th of July around here.

The 4th of July neighborhood kiddie parade tradition continues!

It's funny because a few of you already asked me if the girls won an award in this year's kiddie parade...so my question for you is...what makes you think we care about winning?

Could it be the $$$ spent on anything red, white, and blue?

The hours spent decorating?

Pat's late night excursions to the neighbor's garages scoping out the competition?

I'm kidding. But sadly, it's not too far from the truth;).

Well, like most obsessive behaviors, this can all be traced back to childhood issues. Pat's sister sent us some pictures of Pat and his brothers and sister from when they were little and one of the pictures will explain it all...you'll have to scroll down a bit to see the photo.

Our two American Girls in their over-done bike and stroller.

Ella, Miyah, Mei Lin, and Hannah ready to ride in the parade.
It was raining and all these (crazy) neighbors still came out for the parade.

Miyah's favorite part is the popcicle. It didn't matter that we were standing out in the rain, she wanted to stick around for the after-parade popcicle.

Wet, sticky, and stained. Is there a better way to celebrate?

And here it is, the tell-all picture. I guess some traditions (ahem..competitions) die hard. Pat's in the front. I've told him we're expecting a replica next year.

And just because you're dying to know (not because I care!), the girls each got 3rd place in their divisions (stroller and tricycle). Looks like we have our work cut out for us next year!
*****
Later that night we headed over to Angela and Richard's home for ice cream and fireworks. AND we met their newest American citizen, Miss Claire, who just came home from Mei Lin's orphanage in China while we were in San Antonio. She's so sweet!

BTW, she won 2nd place in the stroller division, but we still love her. She's giving us the "better luck next year, sucker" look, isn't she.

Hannah and Miyah watching fireworks (and Megan and Matt with Jacob in the back).

On the 5th, Ken and Kelly (from Awaiting Addie) invited us over for a cookout and fireworks. We had a great time.

I got a break as several adults were sweet enough to entertain the girls...including Kevin, who was brave enough to supervise the ice cream sandwich eating.

And I'm not at all sure what to title these ?? Miyah walked up to me like this and said, "Mom this would be a cute picture! Pirate Bunny!" so how could I resist. Then, of course, Mei Lin said, "Me too, mommy!"

I hope you all had a great 4th!

More Pictures

2008-06-25T23:26:00.018-05:00

Another day at Sea World...

The girls LOVED the water play area!

Megan let me take a photo of her!

I'm sure she thought I wouldn't post this one...

The girls fed the sea lions...

Grandma let each of the girls play a fishing game.

They each won a dolphin!

And here's a creapy lizard we founnd on my sister's shutter. I think it's a green anole lizard with a strange orange thing that pops out of its neck on occasion.

Tomorrow we pick up my sister and her family (including my new nephew!) from the airport!! Then we're heading home on Saturday. We've enjoyed our time here, but it will be SO nice to be home!

I miss you Pat and Matt! See you soon!

A Hot Week in San Antonio

2008-06-20T14:47:00.020-05:00

Temperatures remained over 100 degrees this week so we did our best to stay cool without going stir-crazy. We swam a lot, went to a mall, and visited Sea World two days.

The girls saving Amigo from dehydration.

Amigo is an expert surfer.
Using the kick board.

Brielle is a little timid of the big pool, so we bought her a little pool.

Sweet sisters.

Miyah would live in the pool if we let her!

Mei Lin loves the water, too.

The girls love Brant's turtle. We took it outside one day so they could all feed him (or her).
Mei Lin

Silly Brielle!
By the end of the week Brielle got braver and agreed to wear water wings so she could swim on her own!
At Sea World's water park.

Miyah and Megan enjoyed the wave pool.

Brielle loved to sit and let the waves gently wash up on her.
The girls watched the flamingoes for a long time while Megan and Grandma went on a ride.

Megan is a little bored without her friends. She says they text message her about what they're doing and she's jealous. Unfortunately she's been a bit of a couch potato...but she's also been a huge help!

They Have Ji Hao!

2008-06-15T23:22:00.003-05:00

We just got a video call from Tracy and they have little Ji Hao! They're having trouble with blogger, but will try to update their site again later or I'll do it for them.

He's SO adorable! They said he is very confident and outgoing...which we could see on the video as he waved and grinned at us. He reminded me of Tracy with an ear-to-ear grin and a lot of enthusiasm! It appears he can hear rather well...at least he heard the orphanage director talking to him and Brittany could communicate with him. Tracy said she made a "vroom" sound as he drove his toy car around the taxi and he heard her and looked at her and grinned.

Tracy showed us a little portfolio of his school work they had given them and according to the director he's very artistic, kind, and helpful. Tracy said he drew a picture of first a smiley face and then a home on the Magna Doodle! Is that sweet or what? He seems very happy to have a family! The whole time we talked to Tracy he was in the background playing Lego Star Wars on the Nintendo DS....and actually playing it well! Sounds like the flight home will be a piece of cake.

I'll leave the rest for Tracy and Max to tell. I just wanted to send a little update to family who might not hear for a while.

Tracy said they haven't been able to see my blog so I may not do a Brielle update each day on here. Maybe tomorrow if we do something exciting...today we just shopped, swam, and ate.

Until tomorrow...

Happy Father's Day!!

2008-06-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

I miss you and can't wait until you come home from China!
Love, Brielle

Happy Father's Day, Daddy! We miss you!

Love, Miyah and Mei Lin (and Megan and Cindy)

A Father Is:
There in every memory
See his love and care
Strength and hands to count on
Freely he does share
Provider, toil so faithfully
To make our dreams come true
Give strong and tender discipline
Though it is hard to do
A Father is God's chosen one
To lead the family
And point it to His will for life
Of love and harmony...
Sue Skeen

Pictures with daddy...

Happy Father's Day, Bill! We love you and miss you.

Love, Pat, Cindy, and kids

Happy Father's Day, Dad! We love you and miss you!

Love, Pat, Cindy, and kids.

Saturday-Brielle Update

2008-06-14T22:47:00.004-05:00

Here's another update for you, Max and Tracy. Brielle is doing great! We stayed around the house today and spent a few hours in the pool. Brielle was so brave...she swam around in the tube with me holding her. Here she is taking one more ring off of her chain...one day closer to seeing you all and meeting her new brother!

We knew Brant (and Tracy) would like to see that Amigo is doing well.

The girls are spoiling him.

Here's Grandma reading them a book before bedtime.

It was great talking to you tonight. Even though she cried toward the end of the conversation, Brielle got over it very quickly. We went out for ice cream and nothing else mattered to her...the girl LOVES ice cream, as you know!

We're praying for you when you meet Brock Ji Hao tomorrow!

Happy Father's Day, Max!

A HOT Friday in San Antonio

2008-06-14T01:16:00.006-05:00

(BTW-You may have to scroll down a few posts to understand this thread I'm catching up on).

Brielle happily wore her patch today. Here she is (above) at Mi Tierra at Market Square. (Below) the men sang for us.

Mei Lin's expression and response to the singing was priceless. She sat mesmerized through the whole song.

My mom and fellow traveler and amazing helper.

Mi Tierra Restaurant...delicious Mexican food and beautiful building.

Market Square was fun to browse through. The music, food, and all the goods sold had a Mexican flair.

Of course Mei Lin picked out a pink guitar (her favorite color).From Market Square we walked down to the Alamo. Here I am with the girls in front of the Alamo (Mei Lin is sleeping in the stroller). It was 102 degrees and humid, so we stayed for a quick history refresher, walked through the main building and figured we'd seen enough. BTDT-check! We can now say we "Remember the Alamo".
Then we headed for the beautiful River Walk, but there was no relief from the heat, so we did a short stroll and walked back to Market Square. I think we spent more time buying sno cones and water than actually site seeing :)
Back at home: After a dip in the pool and another "picnic" dinner, the girls got a bath.

Megan connected online with Max and Tracy (My bil and sister) on Skype (video phone via the web) and we talked to them for a while. We let Brielle see them online the first day and she cried, not understanding that her mom and dad weren't actually in the room, but tonight she was happy to see them and talked to them for a while. She's really doing great and it seems she's becoming more comfortable with us each day. The girls then went to bed early since they really didn't get naps today. Brielle had fallen asleep in the stroller only briefly.

As a side note...please pray for my sister, Michele, and her family (and everyone) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They are experiencing major flooding right now. We talked to them this afternoon and my brother-in-law was stuck at work and unable to get home, bridges have collapsed, and highways are closed. They aren't expecting relief from the rain and flooding until Tuesday.

Thursday with Brielle

2008-06-14T01:00:00.001-05:00

Thursday we waited around the house for the air conditioner repairman, so the girls played, napped, and then swam in the pool. In the evening we had a pizza "picnic" dinner out by the pool.

Brielle in her beautiful eye patch.

She didn't want to wear it until Miyah asked to wear one ;). Then all the girls wanted one...aren't they stylish?

Little fish...

San Antonio...Mon-Wed

2008-06-13T21:22:00.021-05:00

Monday morning my mom and I packed up the three girls and headed to my sister's. We're staying with my niece, Brielle, while her mom, dad, brother and sister head to China on Wednesday to get their newest brother/son, Ji Hao (soon to be Brock Ji Hao). You'll definitely want to follow their trip over at Another B to Keep. They are in Shanghai now and will be leaving for Nanjing tomorrow.

Anyway, it took my mom and I 15 hours to drive to my sister's, but the girls did great. We even pulled over to watch the sun set and to take some pictures (see above). The actual sunset was prettier.

Wednesday I drove my sister and her family to the airport early in the morning. I wondered how Brielle would do when she woke to find us to greet her instead of her mommy. Brielle will be three next month and is very attached to her mommy. This is the first time she's really been away from her so we were expecting a lot of drama. She's actually done great...I'm sure thanks to a lot of prayer. She's asked about her mom a few times and has even cried a minute or two, but gets over it rather quickly. She's having a great time with her cousins.

I'm usually lucky to update the blog once a week, but...now try not to laugh...I'm going to attempt to keep a daily entry for Brielle's family to see. What? It could happen! So, even though I'm behind a few days, here we go....

Wednesday morning my mom and I loaded the three little girls into the strollers after breakfast and went for a walk around the neighborhood and to the park. I didn't bring my double stroller so both Miyah and Mei Lin squeezed into a single stroller giving Mei Lin the perfect excuse to complain (not that she needs one :).

Brielle at the park. The girls had fun playing at the park and we all got hot enough to warrant a swim. My sister has the most amazing pool in her backyard. The kids are LOVING it.

Mei Lin, Brielle, and Miyah

After naps we headed over to a wildlife ranch. This place is amazing. The animals roam free and come up to the vehicles to be fed. We saw a ton of deerish kinds of animals (we didn't buy the $3 identification guide, okay!), zebra, ostrich, etc. Miyah LOVED it. Mei Lin loved it before the ostrich. And Brielle held her bag of feed, fairly underwhelmed.

Brielle holding her feed.

Mei Lin and Miyah feeding the animals.

Miyah and Mei Lin were introduced to this ostrich when he stuck his head in their window. Mei Lin SCREAMED and fell over. She hasn't been the same since.

My mom had a close encounter, too, only with a zebra. Her reaction was much the same as Mei Lin's.

Here I'm trying out the advice I've read in "Brit*ney Spe*ars' Guide to Parenting" ...and for those of you who doubt I'm trashy enough to pull it off, check out the bra strap.Just in case you take me seriously, you're only allowed to drive 5 mph through the ranch, so I was not endangering my children...but I wouldn't blame you for turning me in for the bra strap.

(Below) Miyah feeds a huge ostrich, completely undaunted despite the fact that he's many times her size and has evil eyes.

My little animal lover.

Mei Lin is still traumatized from the ostrich. Anyone know of a good therapist?

Miyah chased a peacock.

Afterwards we tried to order dinner from Taco Cabana...what is with that place...??...we had a similar problem there two years ago. We ended up driving off after no employee knew what a fajita was (at a Mexican restaurant) even though it was the first item on their menu and all of them spoke perfect English....argh...we had Quiznos instead. We got home late, but the girls were good about going to bed after dinner.

Happy 18th Birthday, Matt!!

2008-06-13T06:09:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I'm even typing this...Matthew is turning 18 today!

How does that happen...kids growing up so fast, I mean? It seems like last month he was Miyah and Mei Lin's age.

We're so proud of the young man he's become and are eagerly watching to see him continue to grow and mature into the man God has begun making him these past 18 years.

I wish we were home to celebrate with him, but his sisters and I are far away at my sister's where we're watching my niece while the family is in China adopting the newest "B" (more on thast later). We did, however, have a mini-celebration on Sunday before we left home. Please send him your birthday wishes as he's home nursing his knee after surgery a week and a half ago. I hate that he's home layed up on his birthday...oh, who am I kidding, I'm sure he's having a great day without us!

Happy Birthday, Matt!! I love you and miss you!! Love, Mom

Matt with Grandma

Matt and his sisters

Resting his knee

Sum-Sum-Summertime

2008-06-03T22:43:00.019-05:00

So the calendar says it isn't officially summer yet, but this is what summer LOOKS and FEELS like anyway.....
Swimming

Riding bikes

Being silly with the neighbors

Catching bugs.

Becoming a charter member of the "Star and Ranebo (rainbow) Club"...I'm a member, are you?

Making ice cream with Daddy

Smelling the ice cream....mmmm.....
EATING ice cream!

Contemplating life

Happy Campers

2008-05-28T01:22:00.010-05:00

(Gotta love Mei Lin's post-pigtail hair)

Miyah has been talking about camping out all winter long. She had been patiently telling us we said she could go camping when it was warm enough at night. So, daddy took the girls camping in the backyard over the holiday weekend. We had dinner at some friends' house and found ourselves locked out of our house, so they got started a little late at night, but they all had a great time. They read books and talked before falling asleep with Levi just outside the tent for protection.

Next is fishing. Miyah talks about fishing all the time, too. Sounds like some good daddy/daughter time. I don't have the patience for fishing.

Pretending to be asleep

The next day the girls and their neighbor friends had a picnic in the play tent.

Miyah loves catching bugs. Today it was a slug and a pill bug. She liked watching the slime trail left by the slug and named him "Sluggy." Very original.

I think my girls are happiest when they're outside. The neighborhood kids practically live in our yard and they LOVE to run, jump on the trampoline, swing, dig in the sand, and play, and play, and play. Ahh...spring is wonderful!
Tomorrow we're hoping to get the little pool out and fill it up. The pool in our subdivision opened over the weekend and they had a great time. I was concerned they'd have forgotten how to swim since it's been so long since lessons, but Pat said they did great.

In Honor of Maria and Her Precious Family

2008-05-26T01:32:00.024-05:00

Maria Sue Chapman (2003 - 2008)

I debated whether to post this here for fear of trivializing the Chapman's tremendous tragedy, but I also wanted to honor them and their sweet Maria and be reminded to continue to pray for them. I know thousands of prayers went up for them this past week all around the world and condolences have been many, but they're going to need even more prayer in the coming weeks and months.

If you're not in the adoption community it might be hard to imagine this, but every one of these little angels are so close to my heart. They're like my own in some way. I love them to pieces and I'm proud of them almost as my own. So, this tragic loss hit especially close. My heart has been so heavy and I honestly don't remember when I've cried more.

The Chapmans have been so faithful to God's call in so many ways; Steven, of course, with his beautifully inspired music, and in the last six or so years, in the call to be the voice for orphans around the world. They've challenged Christians to embrace the call to care for orphans and established Shaohannah's Hope which has gone far beyond finanacially supporting more than a thousand families with adoption expenses. I'm sure heaven has offered Maria a new vantage point as she and God have peered down to earth to see all the children and families blessed by her and her family. And I know she sees the world's orphans and continues to advocate for them.

We're most definitely one of those families God pointed out to Maria. God has used the Chapmans to speak to us in both of our adoptions, and Maria's story in particular. While we were still unsure about pursuing our first adoption, it was Steven and Mary Beth who spoke clearly to our hearts at an adoption conference and put our fears to rest.

God used them again in our second adoption as we were considering a child with a congenital heart defect. Just moments after Pat and I were discussing whether we would request her file, we turned on the radio to hear Steven sharing Maria's story during National Adoption Month. He explained that Maria had a heart defect in China but was perfectly healthy when they brought her home and we felt God speaking clearly to us through their story of Maria and went ahead with adopting our sweet Mei Lin. I'm not certain we would have our Mei Lin if we hadn't heard Maria's story.

Thank you, Steven and Mary Beth, for letting your lives shine and touch so many.

"Cinderella" is dancing with her heavenly father now.

Those must be the most amazing dance lessons!

Maria's memorial celebration was terribly sad, but beautiful and full of hope. It brings me hope to see that the family is strong and full of faith, but they continue to need our prayers. I can't imagine how one would get through such a tragedy without faith in a God who heals broken hearts, restores, brings hope and peace, and ultimately has a plan beyond that which we can see or understand.

And if I've learned one thing from all this, it's to treasure those I love and consider every day with them the most precious of gifts.

Here's a song Steven wrote about his daughters. At the end he explains what inspired this song.
"Cinderella"

Hug your children tight and as Steven said because Maria loved butter, "let them eat the whole stick," :).

If you'd like to send your condolences and read more, you may go to:http://www.stevencurtischapman.com/

Friends

2008-05-26T00:36:00.006-05:00

My very best friend, Michelle, and her daughters came from Illinois to stay for the week and we all had a wonderful time catching up and hanging out. We didn't really do a lot but take walks, watch movies, and play with the girls, but we enjoyed the company. We both had just finished several weeks of busyness and appreciated the break.

Megan, Jenna, and Jami were contented to hang around the house and play games, take pictures, watch movies, etc. It was just so good to be together for more than a weekend.

Jami celebrated a belated 13th birthday with us!

Even though we saw them one night while we were in Orlando this year, they had never met Mei Lin because she was sleeping. Mei Lin and Miyah LOVED Michelle, and I'm pretty sure the feeling was mutual. Michelle played with the girls and read them books every day. Mei Lin would even ask Michelle to "lay with her" at bed time and would tell me I could "go now". It was very sweet.

40-Hour Project Complete!

2008-05-26T00:24:00.005-05:00

Every Spring semester, the students at Matt's school are required to present a 40-hour project representing something from the era studied in humanities that year. This year they studied antiquity and Matt and two friends built a trebuchet, which I guess is one of those things you see them fighting with in Lord of the Rings and Prince Caspian.

The thing was pretty huge.

To give you perspective, the orange ladder is 9 feet tall.
I'm glad I didn't know the project involved so much dangerous work....
Welding?? I didn't know they knew how to do all this. Joseph's the boy scout.
The guys worked well over 40 hours...probably twice that. They were at the school with generators running until 11:30 the night before it was due, having no idea if it would even work. They launched a cinder block or something the next day and it worked!

I'm impressed.