Finishing Our Family From China

Heart hurt and some pics

2012-01-23T18:37:00.001-06:00

Today Claire was SUPPOSED to wear her Chinese silks to school. We had planned our celebration for her class together, so she knew what was going to happen. This morning for school a fit was thrown over wearing clothes that we had picked out. She wanted jeans and a tshirt. It really would have been a better idea to discuss this wardrobe change at a different time than 0645 AM, but I digress. It was not a problem for her not to wear her silks, I just wanted prior knowledge of that decision.

I asked her on the way home why she had a problem this am. She replied (I was a little heart broken) "I don't want to wear Chinese clothes when no one else is". I remember, even as soon as last year, she LOVED wearing her silks and reveled in being "Chinese like Mulan". I am amazed at what a year does. She is fastly becoming so socially aware of things going on around her. It makes me sad that she wants to be part of the crowd, I knew the day would come, just not so early.

Kevin was ok....again I guess he is naive to the social stigma of being different. I want to let my girl be who she wants to be and I won't ask her to do anything that makes her uncomfortable, but I do want her to be proud of who she is and who she will become.

We went for a book reading about CNY and gave red envelopes and chopsticks. It was a great time but last too short for any pics really. I did take some on the couch this evening. I hope I will always remember her posing....notice the brother wasn't interested.

Happy New Year !!

Catch up

2011-12-17T13:28:00.001-06:00

We went to the North Pole and saw Santa. Kevin was a little leary, but with Dad close by he agreed to talk to the man in red. Claire was all over this....she would have sat on his lap for an hour if he would've let her. Funny, when children see this man, requests come out of their mouths that have never been heard before! What is up with that?? They also had his sleigh there if you wanted pics. They thought this was out of the world too. They were beyond excited to think it was really his sleigh.

Claire is very excited for her upcoming birthday. She believes that 7 is so much more grown up than six. She is also excited that Jesus has the same birthday month as her. She is so sweet about reminding us what the season is really about. Hannah continues to be a wonderful teen, she is still a TEEN, but trys to stay on the good side. I know it is hard these days, but she remains strong in her convictions and commitment to God.

We hope you all have the best of the CHRISTmas season.

YOU CAN STOP THIS

2011-11-02T17:14:00.001-05:00

This is the beginning of adoption awareness month. Please consider adoption it will change your life. It will change everyone around you. You have the power to stop these rooms from filling up EVERYDAY. Once the beds are empty they are immediately filled. Ask someone about adoption today.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T08:11:00.002-05:00

Here is hoping you don't get any rocks in your bag

Challenge update

2011-09-25T20:09:00.002-05:00

This is the snack drawer. Kids open this daily, as if somehow there will be more there. Yes, we keep dog snacks in there so the littles can feed them. Why do you ask????


This is our breakfast drawer....usually OVERFLOWING

Canned goods, mixes, etc....again usually filled. We did good to empty out older things.

This is our noodle drawer. Most everyone's favorite. Again,this is depleted of its normal inventory.

This is our last week of the challenge. Thirty days of not buying anything that isn't necessary for basic daily living. No frills, no eating out, no "just because" purchases and what a road we have traveled. We have discovered how much we like cooking together AND sitting at the table together. We even had "picnics" in the living room, because we didn't REALLY have enough food to call a meal....just finger foods. We learned that happiness doesn't come in a treat that can be bought at the store. It can come from extra one on one time and making a special project because you made 100 on your spelling test. I haven't checked, but we could've lost a few pounds. BONUS. Honestly, it has been such an eye and heart opening experience. We have taken our money that was saved and spent it in places that NEEDED it more than us. It really felt good. Getting there was somewhat painful for the small ones. I am sorry to say that is probably my fault. I tend to over indulge. My heart has been changed with those thoughts as well. I believe Christie has another challenge up her sleeve and I am anxious to see what God will do with this one! Take a look at Christie's blog for more inspiration.

Sunday Snapshot ~5 full yrs

2011-09-18T15:15:00.003-05:00

My baby is here and safe. Never to be alone again.

She is the light of our lives and we wouldn't change a thing.

Sweet princess ...we love you to the China moon and back. You are a precious gift to us everyday. We thank the sweet and wise Father in Heaven for picking us to be your family.

Happy Moon Festival and a small 30 day update

2011-09-13T11:26:00.000-05:00

We are releasing our lanterns tonite....there is so much excitement here. Hope you enjoy your beautiful moon and celebrate if you choose. We have enjoyed making new things from the things we have found in our pantry/freezer. It has made for some fun times during dinner. We also have enjoyed adding new recipes to our big book of goodies. I am so thankful that this challenge came along. There had been so much stirring in my heart about somethings having to change around here. It wasn't making my heart very happy. This challenge came along and God seemed to speak to my heart to say..."if you can do this for 30 days why not always" My mind and heart seemed to switch and it feels great. Yes.....I would love to not cook everyday.....yes, I would like to buy everything that my children want and don't even know they want but I find cute. But God needs our money elsewhere, there are too many children that must stay in orphanages for too long. Men and women can't feed their babies because they are battling addictions or joblessness. I want to redirect our childrens thoughts to others and not themselves. We are going to discuss a charity we would like our money to go to locally (we sponsor babies in China, but felt we needed to do something local) and we also hope to spend our time there too. Wish us luck...it really isn't that bad. Maybe you could join us next month.

Stop by Christies blog and see more stories of sacrifice and blessings

One week down and our spirits are still up..

2011-09-07T22:22:00.000-05:00

We have completed one week of our no spending challenge. Wednesdays are always weird because the teen goes to church early and then hubby goes to work in between times....whine whine whine. Anyhoo...the teen had some of HER money left over from who knows what and wanted to by herself some quicky dinner and not eat at home. Ok I say, but the two little ones in the backseat will require an explanation as to why they aren't getting anything. Once my heart started beating again, I realized she had ordered them their favorite drink. To share, lest you be REALLY shocked. I was so very proud of her, I believe the extra time we have been spending together this week made her feel a little more generous towards them. Sometimes that seems to be a problem, they have each other and she still feels like odd man out sometimes. Not really interested in adult conversation....wait I think it is US that isn't interested in 15 yr old drama, but yet she doesn't really want to PLAY with them. We have also been blessed with cooler weather, so it makes our spirits soar! We were so sick of hearing about records being set everyday. I heard someone say that the devil called and wanted his weather back. That is exactly how we felt.

We are actually looking forward to next week to see if mom pulls out some more recipes from "the bottom of the drawer" and wow everyones socks off. We will be having a non home cooked meal on Claires family day....I can't hardly wait. I am already wondering if I will order the same thing or try something new off the menu. It is a family (from Taiwan) run Chinese place that will blow your socks off, can you tell I don't like wearing socks, I seem to be wanting to blow them off all the time. They are such a sweet couple and the food will take you right back there.

Stop by and say hello to her and give some encouragement.

Update...everybody settle down

2011-09-04T16:08:00.001-05:00

We have started our 30 day challenge and are doing ok. I say ok, because we are a impulse buying family. Let me say that again, we buy OFTEN without really thinking about it. Sad to say, but it is what it is. Here is a list of our weekend so far.
*Fri afternoon slushies replaced by homemade koolaid slushies.
*Sat am donuts replaced by wonderful sausage bisquits at home with a WONDERFULLY cool am. Sat. afternoon was a sammy of choice with veggies and watermelon. Then sat dinner we pulled out a recipe that I had forgotten and it was a HUGE success with another wonderful family meal.

Hmmmmmm seems to be a trend starting here. If we don't disperse with fast food to the tv room and actually eat on plates around the table......WE HAVE WONDERFUL FAMILY TIME, even with the teen. Sigh...good times had by all. We are having cooler weather, so outdoor activities won't be so horrendous.

Thanks so much for Mrs. B for starting this challenge and helping us to slow down and enjoy what we have and not think about what we want. Go say hello and leave a note of encouragement, this is harder than you think.

Reeady.....GO

2011-08-31T12:21:00.003-05:00

. We have a clean organized pantry and a freezer that has been organized too. We are ready to take on our challenge to spend NOTHING for 30 days. We know that we will need milk and SMALL essentials like that. But.....no eating out, no spending on clothing, no movies, no coffees or huge drinks that last all day. The payoff for this suffering.....I mean discipline exercise?? Well, hopefully money will be put away for that big holiday that comes towards the end of December AND we will see that we don't have to BUY BUY BUY to be happy and satisfied. I have envisioned picnics with our family ( in the living room of course, because it is still 100+ everyday) instead of noisy fast food places and special movie nights with homemade popcorn instead of 5.00 buckets at the movies. Long walks in our neighborhood instead of long walks in the mall.

If you still would like to follow or join us, click on A bushel and A peck for details. I will post about the progress and the missteps along the way.

I am really going to give this the old college try.

2011-08-24T17:45:00.000-05:00

So it begins......

2011-08-22T22:44:00.000-05:00

We began the school year today. It went as planned and everyone got there on time. I felt very proud of us. Claire was a little nervous about today. We had gone to open house but she didn't get to see any of her friends there and thought they weren't in her class. She found a close one....not the bestie, but close enough. Lunch is with the rest of the gang. She ran from the school building today with a huge smile on her face and proclaimed "I had a great day!!!!" Makes this mamas heart feel really good inside. She is such a joy at this age, everything is still so magical.

First day smiles all around.

Hannah began 10th grade today. How can that be possible? I remember MY soph. yr. and how grown up I felt (right now all my 10th grade friends are rolling on the floor laughing....GET UP) and I can't believe that Hannah is that age. She wants to badly to begin drivers ed studying. ARGH! Really not ready for that. Kevin will stay home and enjoy some one-on-one time. He LOVED it today. We are throwing in little fun lessons everyday and he thinks he is in his own school. He even got a new backpack. I thought he would have more trouble with Claire gone.....seemed quite adjusted today. I guess it should be heaven for him, no one telling him what to play and when to play it, he gets to chose the movie of the day, he got his lunch choice....this could really be a sweet deal for him...no wonder he was in such a good mood today. Have a great yr everyone.

Sunday SnapshotLast Hurrah of the Summer

2011-08-14T15:04:00.004-05:00

Sweet Forrest?

We made one last trip to my sisters house this week before the summer ends. Her oldest goes to college soon and we wanted one last week together. We had a wonderful week but we really missed THE RYAN GANG. Swimming, croquet, and many trips to the park made for a memorable last vacation. It is amazing how well all the cousins get along. There is some bickering that makes it even better. The older cousins are always generous with their jewelry, which really blows up Claire's skirt. She couldn't make enough combinations of different pieces. She also loved the oldest ones HIGH heels. I have to say she was really good in those 4" heels...hmmmm better watch out in that area. I would've broken my ankle trying them on in the store. Kevin learned how to jump into the pool without any help....growing so fast. I can't believe we start school in a week. My girls will be in 10th and 1st grade. Where does the time go? I will be doing some "school" with Kevin this year, just to make sure he has the basics for kinder. He is really so good at his name and letters, I don't know how much work we will have to do. Enjoy the pics...

Please go and see more wonderful Sunday Snapshots....
<center><a href="http://nihaoyall.com" target="self"><img alt="Sunday Snapshot" src="http://i56.tinypic.com/jpvipj.jpg" /></a></center>

Some things for me to remember

2011-08-05T14:11:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to jot down a few things to help me remember this trying/enchanting time with Kevin and Claire.

Claire dresses up in some sort of crazy outfit EVERYDAY. She says she is dressing for dinner (yea like we have ever done that). She loves to put scarves on her head like long hair. She wants long hair so bad but doesn't like to have it brushed.

Claire can't say vanilla...no matter how hard we try and no matter how hard she tries it still comes out valilla. She used to say live room instead of living room and now that is gone. She is crazy about art and drawing. She still has to go over the schedule for the day about 700 times before noon....even if there isn't a schedule of anything to do. I know that school is so good for her because of the schedule. She does so much better with that.

Kevin loves his shopping cart. He carries everything he can in there. Still having problems with him taking things that aren't his, but at least we know where to look now. He is still Claire's shadow. Sometimes that is good and sometimes that is bad. He doesn't understand the concept of personal space, so he frustrates Claire often. They do love to play together and the worst punishment they can have is to be separated. I wonder if he wouldn't benefit from a little brother.....Duane says no way, but I am continuing to pray for wisdom and strength to parent him correctly. He is still so new to the family dynamics, I believe he will find a comfortable place in his own skin.

Kevin loves to drive anything....scooters, bikes, cars....He loves to throw the ball and we are working on his aim. I see NFL in his future. He loves his Daddy like no other. He so wants to be big and do everything Claire does, but he can't do everything. That is VERY frustrating to him. He has started saying "but I only have one hand" Don't know where that came from, he can't use it around here to get out of work. It must work at Nana's house. HA HA

5 yr referralversary.....is that a word????

2011-07-30T21:34:00.003-05:00

5 yrs ago we saw this preciousness staring back at us. I will remember that day forever. We couldn't stop looking your beauty. We love you to the China moon and back Claire.

Beach Pics....Galveston 2011

2011-07-17T22:01:00.000-05:00

4th flashback

2011-07-02T21:41:00.001-05:00

Kevin's 1st Fourth of July....Happy Birthday America

End of days....kindergarten that is.

2011-05-20T22:16:00.000-05:00

Oh what a year it was. Learning so many things and making so many friends. She had demons to overcome and did so quite well. The cafeteria is no longer a tomb of terror, and the playground became her very own. I can see such a difference in her....she really is growing up.

Today was buddy field day. The end of school party was a great big water fight with squirt bottles. It was a huge success. The funnest part was soaking the parents....at least we got them too. She has made such sweet friends this year. There was a time that I didn't think she would ever find someone to really have a friendship with and be able to go through the years with...hopefully these are the ones. She has enjoyed her year and can't believe it is over.

Sunday Snapshot**The many emotions of Kevin*

2011-05-08T20:55:00.000-05:00

center>

Sunday Snapshot....The joy of getting a great picture.....

2011-04-24T14:33:00.001-05:00

Run over and see what else is going on this Sunday

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-19T22:18:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday.....Texas style

2011-04-13T09:19:00.000-05:00

In 2 short years....

2011-03-29T22:36:00.000-05:00

He had to

*Leave EVERYTHING he knew behind

*Get a whole new family for the 3rd time in his short life.

*Went through the culture shock of a completely new place.

*Learn to trust people to take care of him AGAIN

The list is endless to what our sweet boy has done in the last 2 yrs. He has accepted a family and is learning his role in it everyday. He goes on full blast from the minute he wakes up until his falls into bed at night. He still has some behaviors that are left over from where he was, but he is learning to let go and let others have control and believe that it will be ok. He has learned to button his own "handsome" shirts for church. He dresses himself every morning, usually before we ever see him for the day. He loves his school and they REALLY love him. He fights with his sisters but can't stand to be away from them. He is all boy and is so crazy loved in this family we can't believe we got so lucky. He is loving and kind and we thank God everyday for allowing us the pleasure to be his family.

Happy Family Day Kevin...we love you to China and back....a million times

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T19:21:00.002-05:00

Growing too fast

2011-03-14T20:30:00.000-05:00

Posing like a pro..

My big 6 yr old girl

She has the best smile

One year ago.

2011-03-03T19:23:00.000-06:00

Looking at these pics from a yr ago makes me see how much they have grown. SIGH

No pics this time

2011-02-27T11:40:00.000-06:00

Wanted to let everone know we have survived the flu....went completely through the family. WOW....it took a lot out of all of us. But we are all on the mend now and hope to be fully functional by this week. Sweet Kevin seems to be the only one trying to hang on to a serious cough.

I don't even know where my camera is...so no new pics of my precious ones this time. They continue to grow and learn something new everyday. The other day I was treated to a wonderful rendition (by Claire) of "party in the usa" complete with a routine that she learned in p.e. Who knew you don't just play four square and square dance in p.e.? She so enjoys performing and dressing in dresses only. She has really become a dress wearer, just like her sister Kacey. She has a "walk" perfected for when she feels REALLY like a princess...too cute. I can't believe the changes I see in her daily. She wants to grow up but yet can't think about growing up and not living with mom and dad. I try to assure her it will be ok, but I still see the old demons trying to surface again. She was asking about heaven the other day, and was really concerned that it would be too different. I assured her that anything she sees in this house will be in heaven too. You could SEE the relief in her eyes. I continue to ask for your prayers that her heart will someday be completely assured that she will never be alone again and she can learn to trust that we will always take care of her.

Kevin is growing by leaps and bounds. I believe he will be a TALL child. I believe he will still have a little belly. HEE HEE He loves to eat...he loves to try new foods. Never afraid to "see if I like that too" This is new to us, as our girls have never been adventurous in the food departments. He wants so badly to be grown as well...so far he doesn't show any signs of being afraid to leave us :) He is the more adventurous one of the duo. He will go with Hannah to different places when asked and loves to always go in the car. He loves us and his sisters. He still doesn't like to talk about China or his adoption, I know that will come. We don't push it and we know God will help his heart come to a safe place.

I promise new pics soon....What about this makeover????? How beautiful is it?? Thanks so much to Becky for rockin' it big time. Look on my sidebar for a link to look at more of her awesomeness.

Lucky Envelopes

2011-02-06T17:16:00.000-06:00

She was so silly the day we were taking red envelopes....

Happy New Year every one. We are going to party like rabbits

Isn't she lovely.....

2011-01-09T11:51:00.002-06:00

Catch up....birthday and Christmas

2011-01-04T17:02:00.000-06:00

6 looks good on her...even with pizza sauce

Ariel mermaid dress

Sweet girl and her Jessie

We had a birthday....the big 6!!! She is really happy to finally be six. "All my China sisters are 6!" I reminded her that wasn't true, but still dramatic. We had a small party here at home and another at school. She got her beloved Jessie doll and a few other pretties. I can't believe how fast she is growing....we are now on the down hill slopes of kindergarten...arrrgh how did that happen?

"Princess Long Hair"

Working hard on carousel

So happy about spidey

Her new potatoe head robe

Look what Santa left!!!!

Then Christmas came and the chaos ensued....paper flying and kids screaming. Hope all had a safe and happy New Year.

Sunday Snapshot ~My favorite memories on the tree~

2010-12-12T14:27:00.000-06:00

My ornament from my 5th Christmas

FOUND this ornament at a thrift store when Hannah was born

Hubby bought this when we were waiting

Sister found this at her Hallm*rk store

Made with jingle bells...came with the ladybug

My fave winter snack

For more great snapshots go here......

http://www.nihaoyall.com/search/label/Sunday%20Snapshot

Sunday Snapshot ~Tree Trimming and Hall Decking~

2010-12-05T21:29:00.000-06:00

We decked our halls and wrapped presents today. It really makes it feel like Christmas when the tree goes up and you start pulling ornaments (memories) out of the boxes. Soooo much fun remembering where they came from and who gave them to us. We also placed our new ones for this yr. Each year I try to have the kids pick out ornaments that mean something to them. Mainly what they have loved the previous year. Hannah has taken a liking to penguins....they are cute and cuddly looking. Claire continues to ask for ice skating lessons. I have tried to explain our geography doesn't lend to ice being around ANY time of the yr. Kevin is really loving robots now. I am sure it is something he has learned from his guy friends....he often walks around saying..."I am a robot I am a robot:" funny little man. I bought the shopping snowlady...I felt like a professional shopper since I am done by Dec. 5!!!!!!

Bringing home our tree

Helping dad with decorations

Sweet picture....sorry about the hair

some of our ornaments were very friendly

Claires skates

Kevins robot

Huge tree

Merry Christmas

Shopping snowlady

Plumy penguin

Wishing a happy and peaceful holiday season for all.

Four

2010-12-03T20:05:00.000-06:00

This is what 6:30 am looked like....."am I four now? am I taller?"

Watching the "amazing candle"

We first saw these candles in China and knew we had to have one....he LOVED it

Digging in with forks...lovely tradition

We can't believe he is really 4.

Kevin, you are such a joy to have in our family. God knew EXACTLY what he was doing when he selected you for our family. We love you more and more everyday. You have been really learning to trust us and love us with your hole heart. You adore both of your sisters....that also includes your fair share of bickering. All wonderful normal things for a great childhood. It is so hard to see you grow so fast, yet it is so wonderful to see you learning new things all the time and feeling so proud of yourself. You love football, spiderman, Chinese food, Mexican food, Italian food, well you get the picture. You love all the shows on N*ck Jr. and want to be like Diego someday. You love cars and making all the wonderful boy noises that come with them. You are such a wonderful snuggler and love to be held. We love you all the way to the moon and around the world

Thankful for......

2010-11-25T09:41:00.000-06:00

Sunshine everyday....no matter what the weather outside.

Unlimited energy and snuggling

Stability and unconditional love

Grace and excitement

Sure the list for all my blessings would really cut into my eating time today, but these are my precious gifts from God. He knows me so well and sent the things I needed the most. Please remember those that are serving our country and can't be with their loved ones. Please take a moment today and truly think about your blessings.

Oooopppsss forgot to talk about halloween....

2010-11-14T12:35:00.001-06:00

It was really great, again this year, to enjoy simple pleasures through the eyes of the pure hearted. The joy of putting on pretend clothes and getting to let your imagination soar was really neat to watch. I think we could have gotten away with just the wearing of the costumes with Kevin, but Claire knew the story....she IS in kindergarten you know. I wish there were a way to truly capture the COMPLETE amazement that covered their faces when returning from a house. Buckets held high and exlaiming at the top of their voices...."they gave us candy mom, they really did" It was soooo precious....the first 46 times. The weather turned a bit chilly, so we returned home to ogle the goods.

Truly ready to fly

Asking if there is a REAL spiderman....

Cool post processing. Claire with her princess pumpkin

Hannah was a great big sister and let them truly enjoy the nite. She is really such a blessing to us all.

I know, I am as shocked as you are. She let me take her picture

My mom with my3

Chewing and smiling

Lovin' the loot

Too sweet

Reading to her babies

China palooza 2010

2010-10-26T22:11:00.000-05:00

Animal Kingdom Entrance

Surprise!!! Pooh and friends

Goofy kids at the pool

A whole store for spiderman....he was in heaven

Well our trip to the mouse house was a truly wonderful experience. I can't believe how much better it keeps getting with these girls. They seem to fall right back into place with each other. There seems to be some kind of true feeling of belonging with them. No fighting, not being shy with each other, even when two sisters came a day later. It was fun to see them putting arms around each other and generally being the Anhui Angels that they are. We will continue to miss the other girls who aren't there, but so thankful for our get-together-group. Thanks Jarod for the new nickname.

4 yrs home....

2010-09-18T13:18:00.000-05:00

The day we met....Sept. 18.2006

Now....Sept. 18,2010

Who knew??? She loves kindergarten. She weathered the first week with courage and trust in her parents to keep their word and return for her....ALWAYS. The Chinese govt has given us a part of our family, without her we would not be whole. She was made by God to fit in the empty space we had. She continues to trust us and let us prove ourselves to her. She continues to love us and "nevereverever" will want to move out and grow up. She is funny and sensitive, she is brave and strong. She is our beautiful princess. We are anxiously awaiting what has planned for out little dynamo for the next 4 yrs. Claire, we love you forever and ever.

Sunday Funnies....

2010-09-12T14:54:00.000-05:00

Funny.......I took 45 pictures of her during her first football game and these were the best two that came out?????!!!!!!

This was funny until they saw themselves in the mirror....tee hee

Funny....I thought you were supposed to get OFF the couch when you played Wii?????

She has mastered bowling from the couch.....ahhhh to be 14 again.....wait, on the other hand.......no thanks

Have a great week everyone.....we are going to Disney next month.....we can't hardly wait

I couldn't decide which ones to show...soooo

2010-09-01T20:19:00.000-05:00

Sweet boy

Shy boy

Sweet couple

pretty girl

Teen girl

Sisters

Precious

Love it

A moment of love

So pretty

The whole crew

Boy does he love his sisters marching band music.....

2010-08-24T22:14:00.000-05:00

She....

2010-07-29T21:57:00.000-05:00

I had great fun post processing

She is going to begin kindergarten in a few weeks. I do believe she is ready....she does not. She is having such a hard time with me going back to work...it has been part time during the summer, but still she has seemed to grieve all over again. We are treading lightly where school is concerned, but she DOES know she MUST go. She has such a tender heart. I bet I hear, "I love you mom" a hundred times a day. Sometimes it can get tiring but the great merciful God has given me infininate patience in that area ALONE.

Change has always been such a huge deal to her. She takes soooo long to recover from changes. Kevin has been home 15 months....she hasn't really recovered from that. I have begun a new job....that I love by the way.....and school is around the corner. Our girl has been "unsettled" for such a long time now. It begins to wear on your soul after a while. Why can't she walk next to me in the store without CLUTCHING my hand? It makes it hard to take things off the shelves. She doesn't even want to venture out in the store with Hannah and Kevin. She doesn't care what she will miss, because she is uneasy about leaving my side.

She is so deep within my soul it isn't to be understood. It pains me daily that she is having such a hard time. The joy she brings us is priceless and unmeasureable. Her imagination is unending. She loves to be center stage and play pretend. My continuous prayer is that she find her peace within and truly feel that she belongs here. That she can feel the security in her life and trust us to always protect her and keep her.

She is truly a happy and joyous child. She loves her backyard and little brother (most times).

She loves to "dress for dinner" and a cape is always appropriate. We love her to the moon and back.....and will continue to show her for the rest of our lives.

I am going to miss this....

2010-07-10T11:16:00.001-05:00

Kevin watching a RAIN STORM....."mom it is raining really fast."

Kevin asking EVERYTIME I put on my scrubs for work.."you have to go to work to buy things for me?"

Kevin wanting to watch Ku*ng Fu Panda everyday.....all day. He has many parts memorized.

Kevin wanting ME to kiss booboos better. Those who followed us in China know what a feat that is.

Kevin wearing his 3d glasses for days after he saw his first movie...Toy Story 3.

At church 4th of July party.

Please don't grow so fast my sweet boy.

She finally mastered it.....

2010-07-05T10:03:00.000-05:00

Long may she wave.....

2010-07-04T09:36:00.000-05:00

Thanks again to all those who fight to help keep her waving. Your sacrifices don't go unnoticed here.

Simply the most beautiful boy

2010-06-07T23:28:00.000-05:00

Growing too fast

Such lovely lashes

His lips....SIGH

We won't forget

2010-05-31T17:53:00.000-05:00

Hug a serviceman/woman. Let them know they matter.

Just pics

2010-05-20T18:36:00.000-05:00

Looking like an "India princess"

Waiting for sister to play

At the end of school concert

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T20:57:00.000-05:00

Always ready with a smile for mom.

We are thinking of you in China....Happy Mother's Day to you too.

Two for Tuesday

2010-04-27T11:02:00.000-05:00

What if we would have said no to adoption?

What JOY we would have missed out on!!!!

Please consider adoption......it truly CHANGES lives.

Laundromat fun????

2010-04-20T22:22:00.000-05:00

We had major plumbing issues that forced us to spend sometime in a local hotel. Fun, right??? Not when your teenager hasn't done laundry in about a month. She had just told me on the way home from school on fri. that she was "going to spend the whole weekend doing my laundry". Saturday morning we wake up to trouble.....so I say I will take you to the laundromat. She has never been and is quite anxious about the situation. She was shy at first but soon realized, no one really cares about you at the mat.....they want to get done and out of there as soon as they can.

She, of course, stated she would never go to a mat again. I reminded her that if she still is insisting on going away for college, this was part of the life of a college going gal. She didn't like that answer at all.

She couldn't believe I had my camera

Our laundromat

Do they all have the same floors?????

I tried to explain the joy of having several machines...she didn't get it

We spent a couple of nights in the hotel waiting for the plumbers to do their magic. Funny how Claire can make a fort anywhere, anytime, with anything. We went to eat so the little ones could play at the playground. We swam in the pool and had it all to ourselves!! Glad to be back home with great plumbing.

Claire's fort

Loving the slide

Sunday Snapshot ~Embracing the rain~

2010-04-18T12:42:00.000-05:00

It has rained for 3 solid days....we have done everything on our rainy day list and still desire to go outside. Well Fri. they thought they were brave enough.

It didn't matter that our boots were on the wrong feet.

Getting braver (it was kind of chilly)

"Raindrops on my tongue feel great"

"me too, me too!!"

Awwww yes, embracing was good.

Do you want to play along????

Pictures

2010-04-08T19:47:00.000-05:00

Sporting his new helmet

Snack break at the park

Loving the park

Peek a boo at the park

Time to go home

Hunting eggs

Having so much fun on the slide

HAPPY EASTER

2010-04-04T13:54:00.001-05:00

He is risen!!!!

1 yr update.

2010-03-30T15:03:00.001-05:00

When Kevin was in China he was placed in a foster home 6 months before we got there. He had to go back to the orphanage 2 wks before we traveled to get him. We watched him walking with his nanny outside, just like a typical day for him. He was curious when she was trying to tell him, this is Mama and Baba. Our boy is smart, even at 2 1/2 he knew SUDDENLY that it was all about to change. When he began to cry, it was as if he was saying, "Not ANOTHER change.....just leave me where I am" It was as plain as the nose on his cute face. He was gently swayed with magical goldfish crackers and bubbles that make all tears disappear. It didn't hurt that some of his dear friends from the same place were there with him. I think somehow they all summoned strength from each other. We had older children in our travel group that understood, but still took lots of time to comfort the smaller ones, that had become their families. They understood that they wouldn't be going back and still had something left in their hearts to help out the smaller ones, when new mommies and daddies couldn't make it better.....yet.

Our boy has grown and challenged us so much since he became part of our family. He still contines to adore and prefer his father, but he does understand about the love of a Mother. He still doesn't like us to wear shoes in the house (mostly a habit from the foster family and Chinese culture, but he also equates shoes with leaving) but is becoming ok with staying with one parent. I adore his heart so much, it is guarded still, but so willing to love again. He adores his sisters and follows them everywhere. The Lord knew what he was doing when he directed me to the waiting children website. He has led us through dark times and rewarded us for our patience and understanding. I loooooove my boy, but certainly glad year 1 is under our belts.

He has a Wuxi special haircut because of mishaps with the shears....ooooppppppssssss

One year today.....more to follow

2010-03-30T10:18:00.000-05:00

2009

2010

Now it is Claire's turn

2010-03-25T11:04:00.002-05:00

Don't you love the shorts over pajama pants???? She is sooo fashion foward

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Thrilling video for thurs.

2010-03-25T10:48:00.002-05:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Black and White Wed.

2010-03-24T08:04:00.001-05:00

Our girls.......

To play along check out the button at the top of the blog.

Black and White Wed.

2010-03-10T12:23:00.003-06:00

Even the dogs give me trouble when taking pictures. SIGH

I was holding a treat and she still wouldn't look at me.

You can play too.

Sunday Snapshot...her smile

2010-03-07T16:26:00.001-06:00

New camera....still learning.

Her smile. I can't even say enough about it.

It was a long time comin'....but boy did it come.

Her LAUGH.....starts anyone immediately laughing.

It comes deep from within. I am saddened that it was stifled for so long.

So glad we have it for our own

Show your OWN snapshot....go to the button and play

Seeking photographer advice.....new camera

2010-03-06T11:42:00.000-06:00

Sweet husband bought me a new camera. I am trying not to get frustrated with it, but I am having a problem with patience. See the pics I took today......nothing but a small amount of cropping was done.

What do I need to do differently?? The camera is a Nikon Coolpix L100. It has the lens that came with it. I am so new at this I don't even know what lens came with it. I have begun to read the manual but it is really confusing as well. Thanks for your constructive comments.

Black and White Wed.

2010-03-03T10:51:00.000-06:00

Beautiful boy. I can't believe he has been home 1 yr.

Simple pleasures

2010-02-23T14:12:00.001-06:00

Baths with your brother

A new princess hat. (footless tights)

Wathing TV in said new hat

Cowboy hat.....you knew it had to happen sometime. Texas, remember?

A big chair with your brother.

I am going to take time today to really enjoy some simple pleasures. My husband is off today, I think I will begin with a bit of reading. Ahhhhh, simple pleasures.

Sunday Snapshot.....Hannah

2010-02-21T12:59:00.000-06:00

Our oldest has taught me how to be a mother. She is beautiful both inside and out. She has taken well to having TWO small siblings added to her life within 3 yrs. She was our only baby for 10 yrs. and moved right into sibling mode well. She is smart, funny, and loves God. She is such a good friend and loves to help serve at church. We can't believe she will be starting high school next year. Where did our baby go??

Loving her ferret

Her smile lights up the room

Oh how she makes my heart sing

Thanksgiving beauty

Already a great big sister. Gotcha day reading

Still getting in the mood for Halloween

Black and white wed

2010-02-17T12:24:00.001-06:00

Getting to know each other in Nanjing

Bathing in GZ

Sisters

More pictures

2010-02-15T11:55:00.000-06:00

We enjoyed a quiet New Year celebration at home. We did alot of traditions this year. We all got haircuts and we swept the house. We have our oranges and lanterns at the ready. We have bought new clothes and REALLY feasted. The little ones went without naps on Sat so we had a really quiet evening as they went to bed by 7:30. I may have to re-think napping. I sure love that bedtime.

I will begin a new job shortly. It will be part time but will still require the little ones to go to the sitter. They love her and I know the time with the 2 others that are in the home is good for them.

We are planning another travel group reunion at Disneyworld this yr. We can hardly wait. Claire's feet won't touch the ground and I think Kevin will really enjoy it by the time we go (oct). He still is a little skittish around large animals that want to shake your hand.

Rare sighting of mom and dad.

Happy New Year to all. Make this a time to start fresh and live life to the fullest. Life is such a precious gift, we mustn't waste it on time wasting things like anger, jealousy, and pride.

Our knight in shining armor

Lots of pics....not a lot of talk.

2010-02-07T13:14:00.000-06:00

So handsome in blue

After bath fun

Proper tv watching equipment

Guess who got lip balm for Christmas?

Hand holding during nailclipping.

KEVIN'S coloring skills.....WOW!!!!!!

We have been busy getting back in the groove after the holidays. Hannah back in school and lessons. The small ones and me crafting and cleaning on a daily basis. On a side note.....Claire had a "leaving me experience" today. She has been home 3 yrs and out of the blue, comes panic and crying. I went in the bedroom to fold laundry and she "couldn't find me and thought I left her". It hurts my heart that this is still a problem with her. I guess it will be somewhat of a hidden fear for the rest of her life. Hannah nevers worries that we will leave without her(although we have threatened many a times when running late), Kevin and Claire are always concerned when shoes are on in the house and they aren't involved. We were never ones to sneak out when leaving our children, now the process takes a little longer. That is ok, I will do whatever is necessary to make them feel secure and loved.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T23:02:00.000-06:00

IT CAME IT CAME!!!!

2009-12-24T19:20:00.000-06:00

These three could not have been happier.

Birthday and gingerbread

2009-12-22T01:48:00.000-06:00

Our sweet Claire turned 5 yrs old on Sun. Where did the time go? She is growing up so fast. She has become a great big sister. She and Kevin are inseperable now. We have been busy with the holiday preparations. We did manage to get a gingerbread house made. Kevin just liked the icing part. It was really fun to squeeze the icing EVERYWHERE. It is really fun to enjoy the holidays through Claire's eyes. She really understands the WHOLE deal and is really loving it. Kevin is going along for the ride. He likes that everyone is having a good time and he is getting treats more often. Hannah is showing great patience with the small ones this holiday. She has been excited for them with everything and even helped with the house. Such a great big sister. We are going to the movies on Christmas day...just us...to see New Moon. She will be floating the rest of the day.

She told everyone she saw she was 5

LOVED the singing part

Getting ready to blow

She calls this her "pretend teeth"

With our MAMMOTH tree at the college

So proud of the house

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

Whew....that was kinda painful

2009-12-08T22:21:00.000-06:00

Get ready

Get set

Christmas card!!

Ok, I will keep trying for a holiday photo

2009-12-02T11:51:00.000-06:00

My first Sunday snapshot...Claire

2009-11-29T01:10:00.000-06:00

This is my first "shot" at Sunday snapshot. I am going to highlight Claire our middle child.

This was our first glimps of our girl. We were blown away. She is named after my mother-in-law and my grandmother. It was love at first sight.

Our girl has found her family

She is always ready with a smile

She loves to have a good time

She is truly gorgeous

She is soooo thankful for everything!!

And then there is this...

And thanks to God...she is all ours.

We love her so much it is palpable. She was our LONG awaited sibling for Hannah and another sweet blessing from God. She will always be our princess daughter and the one who wants to teach and not do. I see great things in her future. I just don't want her future to come too soon....I would like to hold onto her toddler hood a little longer.

Head on over and see all the other Sunday snapshots. It is amazing what you will learn

Thanksgiving and birthday pics.

2009-11-28T18:37:00.001-06:00

We did the big cousins picture with moderate success. Funny the little ones were the easiest ones to work with. It was so great to see everyone together. Lots of food, talking, and memory making. I was sooooo good to take my video camera AND the still one. Kevin's first Thanksgiving will be well documented.

We had two boys with birthdays on Sat. F was 15 and Kevin was 3....F was gracious to share the spotlight with our little one. It also helped that Kevin adored all his cousins and is so incredibly cute....everyone wanted to carry him and help with him....nice. We also went shopping on black friday....it is truly unbelievable what lenghts to get a bargin. My sister and I aren't that deteremined to get the bargins. It is almost as fun to people watch. The registers in the electronic dept went down in Toys r..WOW what a show to watch there. The employee who was to keep us out of the electronics was super nice, but really firm. I don't think they payed him enough money to put up with angry shoppers. I think I heard a few remarks about his mother, but I can't be sure.

Rememember you can click on the pics to make them larger.

This was try #972....

Best we could do with 10 faces.

This was Claire's reaction to laying on the ground.

Trying to get a good one with Nana.

Loving to slide down the stairs with L.

Handsome grandsons

K and my beautiful, smiling Hannah

A and K and precious Claire

Hope everyone had a wonderful day. We are all truly blessed

For these things and more...

2009-11-26T10:03:00.002-06:00

My God sent husband

My precious daughter from China

A son to call our own. Perfect

A daughter JUST like me. Wonderous

All the wonderful friends that have blessed our lives.

I give thanks

God is forever faithful

Preparing for the holidays.

2009-11-16T19:50:00.000-06:00

We are into preparing for the holidays. We have Thanksgiving, Kevin's birthday, Claire's birthday, and Christmas before the end of the year. Thankfully I have been bitten by the layaway bug and have 99% of all shopping done.

Hannah took this picture....I love it

Always has a cell phone handy.

We are having regular teen troubles around here. I guess those wings have to be tested and we DO want her to be independent in her thinking, but wow....it is about to kick my booty. I have no idea when she will get her phone back....her achilles heal. Then to add toddler squared running around, we are truly living the dream. Kevin and Claire seem to be getting along better, it really runs in cycles, we are now in a good cycle. Kevin is learning to play more independently and Claire isn't sure if she likes his new found independence. She sure has loved having someone to completely boss around. Nothing else exciting going on around here, just living life and working. I hope to make the holidays as stress free as possible, lots of hot toddys by the fire followed by s'mores!!

Wishing you another great 40 yrs.

2009-11-10T11:59:00.000-06:00

Go to http://www.bakearella.com/ and see how to make these beauties.

Happy Birthday Sesame Street. You have taught us well.

Hatching a goose egg

2009-11-06T12:07:00.001-06:00

Claire took quite a tumble during a wonderful chasing game with her brother. So sad to see fun come to a crashing halt. Needless to say, she has quite a goose egg to prove it. I received another lesson in how LITERAL an almost 5 yr old can be. She has continued to ask about "when the goose egg in my head will hatch". Funny girl, I can't seem to make it right that she doesn't have a goose egg IN her head. I tried to explain swelling, and how the egg was ON her head not IN it....no go, she can't FEEL an egg on her head so it can't be true. When she rubs her head she only feels hair and no eggs. I guess when all the swelling goes away, she will believe the egg hatched....

Funny story about Kevin....I can watch him in my periphal vision while Claire and I are playing together. He watches INTENTLY to what we are playing...we happen to now be playing teacher and student (guess which one I am) and he rushed to get books and began jabbering whatever Claire has just said. He LOVES to do things to please us. He watches reactions to things done around the house and trys to often do those things that make us happy. The moments are sparodic but are coming more often. HE is really two yrs old and lives up to the terribel twos alot. His constant chant now is "do by self".....he doesn't seem to notice that he only really has one hand. Husband always says "to him it isn't broken". I have learned more patience in the last few weeks. The joy on his face after he accomplishes his task is sooo worth it.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T07:05:00.001-06:00

After the fun was over.She was still ready to go.....

We had a great time gathering candy. Kevin caught on really quick. We have many generous friends that weighted their buckets down with candy with each stop. Their sugar high might last for weeks. Hannah was a great doorbell ringer when it was too high. She was "too old" to recieve any candy, but her siblings gladly shared their harvest.

Pumpkins and carving

2009-10-29T20:55:00.000-05:00

Going to find her pumpkin

His first pumpkin patch trip

Such a sweet helper

Yep, this was the best one

Her pumpkin hat

Concentration

Finished products

He is REALLY proud

Lots of pictures.

2009-10-29T20:42:00.000-05:00

Aunt Kim saving her from the horrid photographer

Sort of a smile

He couldn't believe there was pizza for breakfast.

Such a handsome boy

Sisters and brothers

I have taken lots of pictures but haven't had time to post. Duane's mother passed away last week after a brief illness. How she will be missed. She has 4 beautiful children that will miss her terribly. I will post MORE pictures after our halloween festivities.

Not to be left out.

2009-10-22T12:09:00.000-05:00

I let them choose and this is what they picked.

Too old for Halloween......?

2009-10-10T15:13:00.000-05:00

NEVER!!!!!!

3 word Sunday

2009-10-04T00:07:00.003-05:00

I have days that I REALLY miss China. Celebrating the Moon Festival has really had me missing the people and wonderful culture. This too shall pass, but I do love looking at the wondererful buildings.

They put these eyes on their heads and left them all evening. I really felt like someone was watching me. They think they looked much better on them than on any art project they could make with them. They crack me up.

Finishing Our Family From China

Heart hurt and some pics

Catch up

YOU CAN STOP THIS

Happy Halloween

Challenge update

***Sunday Snapshot ~5 full yrs***

Happy Moon Festival and a small 30 day update

One week down and our spirits are still up..

Update...everybody settle down

Reeady.....GO

I am really going to give this the old college try.

So it begins......

Sunday Snapshot~~Last Hurrah of the Summer~~

Some things for me to remember

5 yr referralversary.....is that a word????

Beach Pics....Galveston 2011

4th flashback

End of days....kindergarten that is.

Sunday Snapshot********The many emotions of Kevin*******

Sunday Snapshot....The joy of getting a great picture.....

Wordless Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday.....Texas style

In 2 short years....

Wordless Wednesday

Growing too fast

One year ago.

No pics this time

Lucky Envelopes

Isn't she lovely.....

Catch up....birthday and Christmas

Sunday Snapshot ~My favorite memories on the tree~

Sunday Snapshot ~Tree Trimming and Hall Decking~

Four

Thankful for......

Oooopppsss forgot to talk about halloween....

China palooza 2010

4 yrs home....

Sunday Funnies....

I couldn't decide which ones to show...soooo

Boy does he love his sisters marching band music.....

She....

I am going to miss this....

She finally mastered it.....

Long may she wave.....

Simply the most beautiful boy

We won't forget

Just pics

Happy Mother's Day

Two for Tuesday

Laundromat fun????

Sunday Snapshot ~Embracing the rain~

Pictures

HAPPY EASTER

1 yr update.

One year today.....more to follow

Now it is Claire's turn

Thrilling video for thurs.

Black and White Wed.

Black and White Wed.

Sunday Snapshot...her smile

Seeking photographer advice.....new camera

Black and White Wed.

Simple pleasures

Sunday Snapshot.....Hannah

Black and white wed

More pictures

Lots of pics....not a lot of talk.

Christmas 2009

IT CAME IT CAME!!!!

Birthday and gingerbread

Whew....that was kinda painful

Ok, I will keep trying for a holiday photo

My first Sunday snapshot...Claire

Thanksgiving and birthday pics.

For these things and more...

Preparing for the holidays.

Wishing you another great 40 yrs.

Hatching a goose egg

Halloween 2009

Sunday Snapshot ~5 full yrs

Sunday SnapshotLast Hurrah of the Summer

Sunday Snapshot**The many emotions of Kevin*