The Butterfly Chronicles

Goodbye Christmas, Hello New Year

2012-01-07T17:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know that we are now a week into the new year but December was a crazy month, with a ton of things that kept us super busy. I have to say, I am happy that 2011 is over, as frankly, it sucked. Yep, that's how I honestly felt about last year. It wasn't all bad but I would sum 2011 up as the year of growth as I was pushed way out of my comfort zone a few times. I feel very grateful though, to have the support of family and friends and that's what helped me through the rough times.

I hope that this year is much better. It's hard to say, as we've only gone a week into it but I am as busy as ever. It was actually a very special New Year, as our good friends the B.s came to visit us from CO for the week after Christmas. We really love and miss them and wish we lived closer.

I can't believe that my calendar is already filled for January. I am not one to make resolutions, as I always seem to break them but I have made 2012, the year of organization. Unfortunately for me, I want to do every room and I want to do it NOW!!! I have two separate projects going on in the kid's rooms but really need to focus on getting one room down, before thinking about another. Pinterest isn't helping either, as there are a ton of cute ideas on there.

Since I didn't have time to blog a lot in December, the below pictures were taken from about the middle of December, through New Year's Day. Sorry for the quality as I didn't photoshop any of them, so they are all in original form.

As we are on a strict budget, we went easy on the presents this Christmas. I found this cute idea on Pinterest (love that site) and Jerry helped me make it for Gracie's teacher. I love how it turned out and it was super easy to make.

Gracie's class dressed up like reindeer for their Christmas program

We started a new tradition of going to see "The Nutcracker". Gracie really liked it but it was a tad too long, as she fell asleep during the second half. =)

Our tree. I went with red and white lights, along with an owl on top. I love how it turned out. Next year, I think we'll have two trees, as this one died fast, since we bought it the day after Thanksgiving.

Christmas morning

Love this picture of the kids playing with Kyle's new Car's toy

Another Pinterest idea. Did I tell you that I love that site. Simple and beautiful table decoration.

Kyle and his new rainboots. Too bad it's only been about 80* since Christmas.

Happy New Year!!

Gracie and B. The cutest bugs ever!

Santa Train

2011-12-16T20:45:00.001-08:00

Last weekend, we took the kids on the Santa train. We did the Santa train last year but it was a different one. The one from last year, was a full sized train, which had hot chocolate, cookies and caroling. It took us to the "North Pole", where Santa came aboard and gave everyone candy canes. It was pretty cool but also pretty far from our house and pricey. This year, we decided to stick to something local. It was a pretty cold night for SoCal but it was fun to get all bundled up, as we don't get to do that often. The train ride was cold since it wasn't enclosed but they drop you off at the North Pole, where hot chocolate, popcorn and Santa awaits. Thank goodness that we had already seen Santa, as the line was really long and Gracie said she didn't want to visit with him again as he already knew what she wanted. Kyle was content because they had popcorn and that's all he cared about. It was a really fun night and I am really loving all the Christmas actitives we have been doing this season. Tomorrow, our Advent activity, has Gracie and I going to see the Nutcracker together, just a girl's day out. It should be a lot of fun and I can't wait to take her to her first ballet as I remember going as a child.

Speaking of Kyle. The poor guy is super sick right now. He has something called bronchiolitis, which makes him have a cough, that sounds like a seal. He has also had a fever since a couple night ago but that seems to have gone away. The little guy has to take 3 breathing treatments a day, until his cough goes away. I pray that it's gone by Monday or Tuesday or the doctor said I I would have to bring him back in. I am hope he gets better quickly as we have a busy week, filled with lots of Christmas things. His voice is also hoarse, so when he talks, he sounds like a little squeaky mouse. I hate seeing my little boy suffer like this, so please send thoughts and prayers our way.

Family portrait

The lights looked gorgeous

Our little train

Kyle and my sister-in-law

Santa and Cupcakes

2011-12-04T19:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I took the kids for our traditional picture with Santa. I've been taking Gracie to see Santa, since the year she came home and started taking Kyle last year. I frame every Santa photo and would like to take the kids (if they are willing) every year, until they are 18. Of course, they won't have to sit on Santa's lap, lol but they can stand next to him. It's fun to take out the pictures every year and see how big the kids have gotten. Now that Gracie is older, she really gets a kick out of it! Of course, she is super smart and observant and wanted to know why Santa's clothes were a little different in one of the pictures and why his beard was a little greyer in another. I quickly came up with something and she was satisfied.

Aside from Santa, I am addicted to a site called Pinterest. You may or may not have heard of it but it's awesome and SO addicting! I could spend hours researching stuff to pin to my boards. One of the cool things that I found are these North Pole cupcakes. They are super cute and very easy to make. All you need to do is, bake white cupcakes, frost them, then take candy canes and break the hook off to represent the poles. Use leftover frosting to sitck a red M&M to the top of the "pole" and print out signs that say North Pole. I used frosting to stick those to the poles too. You can sprinkle white sugar crystals on top for snow or use coconut. I used both. Since I am in a crafty mood, thanks to Pinterest, I will be posting more fun craft things that I have created for this Christmas Season.

No crying this year for Kyle, yay! =)

North Pole cupcakes. They were yummy!

Amos' Activities

2011-12-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

Catching up on what our Elf, Amos has been up to. It's been busy so I haven't been able to post every day but I did manage to take pictures. Gracie loves waking up EARLY every morning, and searching the house for Amos. Poor girl is going to end up in therapy though because she didn't want to use one of our bathrooms because Amos was in there and Gracie didn't want him to see her butt, lol!

Taking a spin with Ken

Wanting to brush his teeth

Munching on popcorn

Amos decided he wanted to watch some Christmas DVDs

2011-11-27T19:59:00.000-08:00

Amos got caught reading this morning

Thanksgiving and New Traditions

2011-11-26T16:24:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I am not a big fan of Thanksgiving. Not sure why but even when I was younger, I didn't like it very much. Maybe it's because I am not into turkey too much, the rest of the food items, yes. I won't say I hate it as I don't like using that word because it's too harsh and I don't want to teach my children to "hate" anything or not like a holiday because I don't. Don't get me wrong, we did have a big meal at my dad's house and I am very thankful but sometimes, it seems that people get caught up in one day and forget about the other 364 of the year.

This year, we started the Christmas Season off early. The decorations have been up for over a week now and we got our Christmas tree yesterday. Getting the tree this early, is one of our new traditions, as in the past, we've usually gone the weekend after Thanksgiving. Jerry wanted to go early as he thought the trees might dry out, when the weather got warmer. He was right as it's 80* here today and supposed to be that tomorrow too. The lot was also empty at our local Home Depot (I know, I know but we have slim pickings for tree lots and they're less expensive) and we got a beautiful tree! Since we are on a strict budget right now, we did forgo our tradition of going out to breakfast for dinner.

Another new tradition that came to visit us this year, is our new elf from "The Elf on the Shelf". He came last night with his book, while the kids were in the bath. Gracie named him Amos and this morning, when she woke up, she found him putting the first ornament on her pink Christmas tree. It's going to be an exciting time around here until Christmas, as each morning, after Amos flies back to our house from the North Pole, he will be found in a different spot. I plan on taking pictures each day and posting to my blog.

Poor Kyle was so tired, he decided to rest on Gracie's shoulder. I thought it was adorable!

Christmas tree shopping

Amos is frozen until tonight, when he flies home to Santa. The kids know they can't touch him or he will lose his magic.

Feast and Teeth

2011-11-22T16:41:00.000-08:00

Today was Gracie's Thanksgiving feast at school. Even though Gracie goes to a public school, I love it and her teacher Ms. B. is awesome! All of the parents, brothers, sisters, etc. were invited to her class to hear the kids sing some songs and then munch out. Jerry has this week off, so he got to attend too. Jerry video'd Gracie singing her songs last night, as we knew that we wouldn't be able to hear her sweet little voice today, amongst the other kids. I love listening to Gracie's voice as she is a much better singer than I am, lol! Actually, anybody is a much better singer than me! What's interesting is, I have been hearing Gracie sing these songs all week but today, when the last song the class sang was put to music, I got very teary eyed. I started thinking about how lucky I am to have Gracie and Kyle and fortunate enough to attend her feast today.

Kyle also had his first dental appointment today. He did so well! Not one bit of crying and he even got his teeth fully cleaned. The dentist did say that Gracie probably won't be losing her teeth until well into the age of 6 but I am not going to tell her that as she so wants to lose one now. It's so funny because when we are young, we want to lose our teeth and when we get older, our biggest fear is that they will fall out! As a celebration for the kids both having no cavities, I bought them Christmas tree cookies at the store. Shhhh, don't tell the dentist.

Gracie singing Thanksgiving songs at home

Gracie the pilgrim

Kyle got in on the act too. He so wants to go to kindergarten.

Getting ready for his X-Ray

5 Year Check-Up

2011-11-09T21:04:00.000-08:00

Today, Gracie went to the doctors for her 5 year check-up. The first thing she asked was if she was going to get a shot. All her immunizations are up to date so I told her no and she was pretty happy with that. They did the usual stuff and Gracie's eyes are great. The hearing test is a joke. Put on the earphones and press the button when you can hear the sound. She passed that too, which doesn't surprise me, as that girl can hear mine and Jerry's conversation a mile away. Hmmm, wonder why she can't hear me when I am asking her a question. They checked Gracie's height and weight and currently, she is 43.5". The doctor said she is tall for her age, the 76th percentile and calculated how tall Gracie may be when she gets older. According to the doctor, Gracie will be around 5'5" which is what my height is. I am hoping for a little bit taller than me! Anyway, the picture quality is horrible as it was taken with my phone, which is an old Blackberry. I can't wait to get the new iPhone, come March! By the way, Gracie loved the gown they put on her and made us take it home, so she could play dress up with it. I sure wish us adults got cute ones like that too!

Trick or Treat

2011-10-31T20:15:00.000-07:00

Trick or treating was rather iffy this year, as the whole household was sick. The boys ended up getting sick from us girls and it wasn't very fun. We are still fighting this thing and hopefully it will take flight and find another place to visit. Aside from that, Halloween was really fun this year. Kyle is able to say trick or treat this year and understood that if he stuck his bucket out, he would be rewarded. It was nice because I decided to dress him as a dog and got a great steal on his costume. What I didn't realize was, as Kyle walked, the little tail on his costume wagged. It was adorable! Gracie wanted to be a witch this year. She told me a while ago that she wanted to be one but she had said the same thing last year and then changed her mind the day of and ended up wearing one of her princess costumes. She stuck to her guns though and I let her pick the costume.

The kids got a ton of candy, which is still sitting in their buckets. They haven't even asked for the candy, not even Kyle, who is like mommy and loves sweets. I think they enjoy the whole concept, better than eating the goods. Even though I love Halloween, I am ready to move on to the next holiday. I am actually in the Christmas Spirit early this year so this weekend, after I take down my Halloween decorations, am going to start on the Christmas ones.

Happy Halloween!!

I love this picture. Jerry said something funny that made the kids crack up.

Zoo and Pumpkins Too!

2011-10-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, Groupon had a really good deal for our local pumpkin patch that is literally 5 minutes from our house. I jumped on the deal and Jerry and I took the kids. It was pretty warm that day, which is normal for October. One thing that we found is, they didn't have very many pumpkins. This was towards the beginning of the season, so I don't know if that's why or if it was a generally bad pumpkin growing season. Kyle picked a small pumpkin as they were the cheapest and we took Gracie to Walmart afterwards, as the pumpkin patch wanted 15 bucks for a medium pumpkin, no thank you! We found that Walmart had no pumpkins at all, so had to go to the grocery store.

We also were able to get together with a group of our friends this past Friday and go to the petting zoo. Again, we got a great deal through Living Social. Gotta love those sites! All of the kids had a blast and wanted to stay. The mommies and Jerry, on the otherhand, were starting to have trouble breathing, probably from all the hay and dust. It was a fun day though and I love that area. Kyle and Gracie actually had pictures taken around the corner from the zoo, by our friend and they turned out great. I will post those when I get them back.

Most of the pictures that I am posting have not been re-touched by Photoshop, so sorry for the quality. I have not had time to post because Gracie has been sick for two weeks and now I have picked it up, so I didn't feel likeplaying around with the photos. I did lighten up a few as they were too dark.

Pumpkin that Kyle picked

Kyle's first roller coaster. You can tell he is hanging on for dear life!

Fun with friends!

This little guy was in hog heaven

Cute series of photos that I got of Gracie and Kailee

Party On Barbie

2011-10-15T20:38:00.001-07:00

Saturday, we had Gracie's 5th birthday party. About 4 months ago, Gracie told me that she wanted a Barbie party. I nodded my head and said yeah, okay, thinking that she would change her mind at least 1 or 2 times, before it was time to plan for her party. Gracie didn't change her mind though and wanted to stick with the Barbie theme. I did some checking on the Internet for cute supplies but all they have now for table goods are the "real" looking Barbie. I went with it and decided to add a few things.

I searched the Internet and my friend Kimberly sent me a couple of cool links, so I grabbed some ideas from there. My close friend G. who throws the best parties and is the most creative and talented person I know, gave me some super cute ideas too. She and her family have come out the last couple of years from CO but weren't able to make it this year but they were greatly missed.

Gracie loved her party and all the kids had a blast! Last year, we had Cinderella come but this time around, we did crafts and played games. I picked up a couple of inexpensive bracelet kits at Target and the kids used fabric paint and stickers to decorate the bracelets. Gracie also wanted a pinata so I stuffed one full of candy because what's a party without candy and sending children home all sugared up. I bought the pull string kind which is so much easier to do, especially at this age.

I made Gracie a Barbie doll cake this year. Apparently, these type of cakes have been around for years but I was never into Barbie so didn't even know they exisited. Gracie loved helping me decorate it and instructed where she wanted items to go. I had a little mishap with my original idea of mini-doll cakes for the kids and ended up going with cupcakes but they still turned out really cute and the kids liked them. All of us were wiped out after the party but it was so worth it and I can't wait to start planning Kyle's!

Love this photo of Gracie!

The kids making their bracelets

Playing musical bunny which is the opposite of musical chairs. As each child was "stuck" with the bunny, after the music stopped, they got a prize

Gracie and Aunty Jill. So grateful for friends like Jill. She came over to help with the party.

Kyle and Wes

I made each child individual doll cupcakes. The frosting was a little melted but they turned out cute!

Barbie cake that Gracie helped decorate

5th Birthday

2011-10-13T20:07:00.000-07:00

Today my little girl turned 5. She was so excited she told me, because now she is the same age as her friend Kailee. For me, it was an emotional day and I'm not sure why this birthday was more more emotional for me than than usual. Maybe it's because this is the first birthday that Gracie has celebrated without my brother Frank. I don't know but more than once, I found myself with tears in my eyes. Either way, my sweet baby girl is another year older and as a couple of people have told me, Gracie is now one whole hand, lol! I let her pick anything she wanted to eat for dinner because birthdays are very special, so Gracie chose to have orange chicken from our local chinese restaurant. Saturday, we are having her birthday party and she can't wait. My little girl may be growing up but she's not too young to lay in bed with me and rest her head on my shoulder, while I read stories to her, just as I did tonight.

Happy Birthday Gracie, we love you very much!!

The pictures below were this morning and not the best quality as I was rushing before taking Kyle to preschool and Gracie to kinder.

I was fooling around in Photoshop

Fall Happenings

2011-10-08T14:43:00.001-07:00

It's only the first week of October and things have been busy! Our calendar is almost filled up for the month. I thought that when Gracie started school full-time, things would slow down a bit. Nope, not a chance! We've been doing a lot of fun things, so many, that I decided to stick them all in one post.

My cousin Jill came out for a visit towards the end of September. It was a nice surprise and we got to do some things that we normally wouldn't. Jill works at Medieval Times which is a dinner theater that has horses, knights and jousting, amongst other things. The food was good, especially the soup and garlic bread and their dessert tasted just like the old McDonalds apple pies, back when they were fried, before we became a health concious society and decided to sue everyone so now the pies are baked. We were able to get in for free which was a great bonus (thanks Jill). The kids had fun but I believe some adults had more fun, especially after they had a drink or two or three..... Just saying.

As everyone knows, I love Disneyland but I REALLY love the place in the fall. They decorate for Halloween and it looks super cool. I will probably be at Disneyland at least 3 or 4 more times this month, before they take down all the decorations.

We celebrated the Moon Festival at our house this year. Plans fell through for the original location and some of us moms still wanted to celebrate so I decide to have it at our house. We did a lantern craft and had a potluck which worked out nicely. All the food was yummy! Here is a picture of the girls on Gracie's new big girl bed. They are all growing up so fast and oh so cute!

Since Gracie is in school, this allows for Kyle and I to go on some playdates that we haven't been able to in the past. Yes, it's another Halloween post (told you I loved the holiday). My friend Kimberly had a Witches' Tea party for the kids and it was a blast. Kimberly is super talented and her house looked adorable. In the photo above, one of the moms made creepy fingers which turned out super cute. All they are made from is string cheese and olives. I'm definitely stealing that idea! The other photo is of the two Kyles as we call them. My Kyle and my friend Kimberly's son. I think they are the two cutest witches out there, just don't tell Gracie as she is dressing up as that for Halloween. =)

Here is a picture of Kyle on his first day of preschool. With Gracie being gone all day, he misses her a lot so I decided to put him in school one day per week. This also allows for me to volunteer in Gracie's class and get some things done around this house. I had to give up having a housecleaner but it's so worth it, as Kyle did really well his first day. He cried for about 30 seconds and then was fine. I think it was worse for me as I missed my little guy.

Kindergarten

2011-09-16T17:39:00.000-07:00

This past Monday, Gracie had her first day of kindergarten. Technically, school started last Wednesday but we were on vacation for the "official" first day. Gracie woke me up at 6:00am which is pretty early, considering we had just gotten home from vacation the day before but the girl was excited to start her day. Gracie had gone to preschool at this same school last year as I had planned it that way because I wanted her to have a smooth transition to kinder. We already knew her teacher too as we met Ms. Brooke several times last year.

As I was getting Gracie ready that morning, I was feeling sentimental and a bit in denial that my little girl would soon be in school full time. Our district has all day kindergarten so she would be gone pretty much the whole day. Jerry and I both got to drop Gracie off as he had the day off so that was an extra special treat for her.

As we approached the classroom, Gracie suddenly because shy and a bit nervous which is totally understandable. She did better than I as I remember my first day of kinder and I bawled my head off because I wanted my mom. At the end of the day, Gracie said she had a fun time and wanted to go back the next day. Success!!!

We celebrated her first week by going out for yogurt with her good friend Kailee, who is also in her kinder class as both girls survived the week, yay! Kyle and mommy on the other hand, well, not so much. Seriously, it has gotten better and both Kyle and I are slowly but surely getting used to the house being a little bit quieter, which Gracie more than makes up for when she gets home. =)

PS~ Why is it when I ask Gracie what she did at school, she always has the answer of "I can't remember". I told my friend Jill that if I ever teach kinder again, I am going to make the kids write down what they do during the day so their parents don't think they sit and stare at the wall, lol!

My beautiful girl

A little bit nervous here

SeaWorld

2011-08-27T17:33:00.001-07:00

A couple of weekends ago, we had the opportunity to meet our friends the K.s at SeaWorld. We only get to see them about once a year, so it's a great treat when we do. The girls get along great and every time they see each other, act like old friends who have been together forever.

We pretty much let the girls choose what they wanted to do (poor Kyle, was just along for the ride) and it was nice not having a schedule or something that we just had to do.

SeaWorld was really fun but I couldn't help but feel a little sentimental, as the last time the kids and I were there, was last November, with my two brothers and sister-in-law. Since then, my brother Frank, has passed from lung cancer.

One of the rare pictures I got of Kyle looking at the camera

New sea turtle exhibit that was amazing. Ironically, there are no turtles in the background

The girls loved playing on this fake turtle

Don't mess with this guy, he looks mean!

Kyle was so cute as he ran right up to Elmo and got smothered in Elmo's arms

Cinderella Play

2011-08-15T17:47:00.000-07:00

I don't know what happened this summer but I have been busy. Not just busy but CRAZY busy! I don't know what I have been doing but the summer has flown by and I actually have forgotten to blog. Normally I have people that "gently" remind me but not this time, so things once again have been slack so I need to catch up with my summer happenings.

Last month, Gracie attended her first official play. It was the story of Cinderella but not the Disney version. In the play we saw, Cinderella had gasp, dark hair! All throughout the play, I kept hearing Gracie whisper, "Mommy, why isn't Cinderella's hair blonde?" Notice she didn't say yellow, as I taught her long ago, the proper term for my hair color as it drove me crazy when I was teaching in classrooms and the kids would say I had yellow hair. :) I know should probably introduce her to different versions of the story but she loves the Disney one so that's what we'll stick with, at least for now and hey, I think Cinderella looks pretty good as a blonde. ;)

Gracie and her friend Sophie underneath the carriage

Love this picture as Gracie looks so excited

There they are, the Prince and Princess, dark hair and all

All the girls together

A Camping We Will Go

2011-07-14T19:17:00.001-07:00

For the the week of July 4th, we took our annual camping trip to Mammoth Mountain. We went to Lake Tahoe last year for the 4th and decided to hit Mammoth this year. I guess we like looking at fireworks over lakes, that's why it's become an annual trip. For those of you who don't know what or where Mammoth is, it's a town by the Sierra Nevada mountain range with a population of about 7,000 people. The mountain itself is a big volcano that people ski and mountain bike down. The area is very beautiful and houses pricey but many years ago, when all the earthquakes were happening, along with the thermal activity, you could get a house for practically nothing as the mountain was supposed to blow, just like Mt. St. Helens in WA. Wish I were old enough to buy then!

Since I have a ton of pictures, I will categorize each section.

The 4th was really fun and we attended the local parade. The parade consisted of homemade floats, people walking down the street all dressed up and a guy on a bike that was dressed like a mammoth. His costume was pretty cool. Gracie and Kyle enjoyed themselves as the people in the parade would throw candy to all the kids. It was almost like Halloween except the candy given was pretty much the stuff that you find at the beauty shop. You know, the hard stuff that has been around for a while. Kyle also got to taste his first snow cone, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

Later that night, we had a bbq and went to watch the fireworks over Crowley Lake. After moving 3 spots, Jerry had to 4X4 it to find the perfect one to see the fireworks. There was a couple other cars around us and that's about it. The fireworks were advertised as being in high definition which I'm still not sure what the means but whatever. They were nice and we had a great time.

People were still skiing, even though it was in the 80s. There was a record snowfall this year in Mammoth.

View of Crowley Lake from our secret spot

One of the things that the Sierras offer, are lots of hiking trails. Seeing that I am now actually able to walk more than 30 feet without collapsing, we took the kids down to Red's Meadow to hike to Rainbow Falls. I carried Kyle on my back while Gracie walked and what a trooper she was. We hiked almost 4 miles and even though she whined a little (heck, my hubby was whining more than Gracie), she did awesome! I am so proud of her and see more hikes in our future.

Famous Mammoth trademark in the background. Oops, I cut it's head off!

This area is called "The Dead Forest" as a few years ago, there was a fire that swept through here. It was pretty warm and really eerie to see all the dead trees but as we were walking, I could see where nature was replenishing itself with baby trees.

The hike to the falls was totally worth it to catch the rainbow. Can you spot it?

One of the things that Gracie really wanted to do was go fishing. She had picked out a princess fishing pole from Walmart because you can't go fishing without Sleeping Beauty and she couldn't wait to use it. Gracie so badly wanted to catch a fish but they just weren't biting that day. She had a lot of fun anyway.

Convict Lake which is where Nature Valley had filmed a commercial at a few years ago, advertising their granola bars.

While Gracie fished, Kyle ate, as he was very happy doing that activity

The following are misc. pictures taken during our entire camping week.

Jerry wanted to take the truck off-road. I wasn't too thrilled with that idea and white knuckled it pretty much the entire way!

The lonely path we took

View from the top. I guess it was worth risking my life to get this view. Wait, no it wasn't!

One of the kids' favorite activites to do was hang out in the trailer and color. Gracie drew a watermelon that matched her outfit. I think she did a pretty darn good job.

Some downtime

One cannot go camping without indulging in S'mores. Sure you can make them in the backyard but there's nothing like the "real" thing.

Yep, there was a swimming pool in the middle of nowhere. The cool thing is, Jerry used to swim at this pool when he was younger.

At the end of the trip, Kyle had, had enough of the trailer and us

4th Forever Family Day!

2011-06-19T20:50:00.000-07:00

Four years ago today, our little girl was placed in our arms. (I backdated this post as things have been crazy) Gracie was such a happy, little girl when the nanny brought her out to us. She was bouncing up and down and it was the cutest thing. I was really nervous as I didn't know what to do with a baby as I had never changed a diaper nor babysat, except for one time, which I hated because I had seen one too many horror movies and was convinced that the killer was coming through the window. Jerry and I had actually put Gracie's diaper on backwards for the first time. =)

Four years later, Gracie is still that happy, go lucky girl. Almost everyone who meets her or knows her, always comments on how Gracie always has a smile on her face and is very happy. Gracie loves to sing, play dress-up and is a great artist. She is also very smart with a wicked memory, it's scary. When I ask her what she wants to be when she grows up, she tells me a mommy and maybe a waitress, lol!

We love you so much Gracie and are VERY blessed that God has placed you in our lives for us to watch you grow.

Graduation Day!

2011-06-08T21:37:00.001-07:00

My little peanut girl had her preschool graduation today. She still has another week left but today was the "official" ceremony. I wasn't sure how I was going to feel but I did okay and didn't cry. Originally, Gracie started off at our church preschool last year. It was too far for me to drive to every day as I was worried what would happen if we had a major emergency and I couldn't get to her, so at my friend Jill's urging, (thanks Jill) I made the switch to the local public preschool for this year. I am so glad that I did as Ms. W. is an awesome teacher! According to the principal, Gracie's preschool teacher is one of the most sought after in the entire district. I also picked this school because it's very close to where we live and the one where Gracie will go to for her elementary years, so she is already familiar with the school.

Gracie loves school and all the friends that she has made. It is kind of sad because next year, not all the of the kids in Gracie's class will be going to Gracie's school as some will be heading to Preppy K since they aren't old enough to attend kinder and others will be attending a different school. Gracie will turn 5 in October and normally, in a different state, she wouldn't have made the September cut-off but in CA, the cut-off is December 1st. I know she is ready to go and will have a blast next year.

Happy graduation day my sweet little girl. This is only the first step of a very bright future.

She's so cute with the cap on

Someone is trying to relive his youth

My proud graduate

Freedom

2011-05-30T12:31:00.000-07:00

The thought hadn't even crossed my mind to post anything today but then Jerry came home with the kids and he had bought them both American flags and as I was watching them play with the flags, waving them around, I decided to take a couple of pictures. Watching the kids got me thinking about freedom, our country and what it means to me, also to Gracie and Kyle.

Looking at Gracie, I sometimes wonder what would have happened if she were still in China. Would she be in the orphanage, would she be with another family? Would she be loud and outgoing as she is now or shy and quiet. I think about the people still living there and try to imagine what it would be like if I was not born in the US. Would I be stubborn as I am now and fight for what's right or wrong and stand up or would I not say anything at all.

Kyle was not born in a communist country, but he could have easily been born in North Korea. Even though South Korea is not a communist country, there are still social stigmas in place, especially with single mothers and adoption, so would that be considered not having freedom?

I can't look down upon China and South Korea or talk negatively about them, as those two countries gave me something so precious, that they will never know how grateful I am. China and Korea didn't have to allow me into their country to adopt my two children but they did and for that, I am thankful. I may not agree with their policies or stigmas and that's okay as I have the freedom to do that.

On this reflective and beautiful day, I want to thank all of those who have died serving and protecting our nation. It may not be perfect, but it's ours.

Happy 2nd Birthday Kyle!

2011-05-23T19:11:00.001-07:00

I can't believe that my little boy is 1 year older. It seems like last week (was going to say yesterday but that's so cliche) when he came home and was getting adjusted. Since Kyle's first birthday, I have seen so many changes in him. I can't believe how blessed we are to have been chosen to be Kyle's parents and watch this little boy grow and eventually become a young man. It's amazing!

Kyle's has had what they call a language explosion as he is starting to repeat everything. Not good when something slips out of my mouth that's not supposed to but we survived that phase with Gracie without too much embarrassment. Although I must say, she will say crap at the appropriate time, especially when she drops something.

Kyle is also very messy. I swear, that kid can't eat a meal without it getting in his hair, down his diaper, on the floor, etc........ You name it, it's been there.

He loves to play with cars and will make the vroom, vroom sound around the house, it's very cute. He also like Dora, Buzz and Elmo and when he sees pictures of them at the store, he jumps up and down in his seat, yelling their names at the top of his lungs.

Kyle is a daredevil. He will climb up on the couch, literally run from one end to the other and on his way back, hurl himself at you or whatever is in his path. He has gotten so many scratches or dings. I'm sensing a trip to the emergency room is in our future.

Kyle is one of the sweetest boys you will ever meet. He loves to cuddle and if he's upset, will call my name and want to be held. He will randomly come up and put his face directly in yours and give a big wet doggy kiss. Jerry has also taught Kyle to say I love you and it's the best thing ever.

There's a million things I could tell you about Kyle but this post would go on forever. Happy Birthday sweet boy, we all love you very much!

We took the kids to the circus for Kyle's birthday.

He was fascinated with everything that went on.

Gracie said this looked like fun. Um yeah, no.

Yummy!!!

Hey, where did my cupcake go?

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T20:25:00.001-07:00

Easter ended up being a quiet but nice affair this year. In the morning, I woke up to Gracie whispering in my ear if she could go find the eggs that the Easter Bunny had hidden. It was pretty early so I told her no and go back to sleep. About 20 minutes later, she asked again and of course my answer was still no. Finally, after a 3rd time, I felt sorry for her so I peeled my eyes open and after getting Kyle from his crib, we all rushed into the living room to see what the bunny had brought. This year, the bunny was a little stingy and only left a little bit of candy. Seeing in year's past, that the candy sat in the basket for a few weeks and then got thrown away, I guess that bunny has learned. Gracie was very happy with her princess bucket and sand toysand Kyle was happy with the candy.

After having some chocolate for breakfast, the kids, actually Gracie as Kyle was still chomping away, went off to find the eggs. This is Gracie's favorite part and she specifically requested that the bunny hide no eggs outside as the grass would be too wet. After the hunt, we went to church, with the kids on a sugar high and then Marie cooked a nice brunch for us. That would be Marie Callendars, the restaurant for those of you who don't have them in your state. The day ended with all of us stuffed full of good food, happiness and yummy chocolate.

First look at their goodies

Kyle doing the happy dance with a mouthful of chocolate

Gracie counting her eggs to make sure she got them all

So ecstatic at brunch as he got all the food he wanted

Huge basket that Gracie got from grandma

Thanks Grandma June, the kids loved their baskets, especially Kyle with all the cars

Easter Weekend

2011-04-23T20:42:00.001-07:00

As promised, I said I had a lot of pictures to post and this is just one group of them. Bet you didn't think I would blog this fast again, did you?! The first set of pictures is actually from Gracie's last day of preschool, before Easter break. It was my turn to volunteer with the little ~~rug rats~~, children and it so happened to be the day of the party so I grabbed my camera and brought it with. I was in charge of the egg dyeing which I wasn't too thrilled about (think 15 kids and a bunch of colored dye) but all went well. The stickers kept falling off the eggs but oh well, the job got done. After that, the kids went outside for an Easter Egg hunt. There were tons and I mean tons of eggs, scattered throughout the playground. I had visions of melted chocolate everywhere. Gracie was very picky with her eggs and only wanted certain ones. She is so uncompetetive, just like her mommy. Meanwhile, there were kids who had their baskets full to the brim. We separted the eggs anyway and made the baskets even so it all worked out in the end. After eggs, it was pizza time. Finally, my 3 hours was done (felt like a million) and we were free for a week.

The next group of pictures is from today. Michelle, was a gracious host and had The Lucky Mommys over for a lot of sugar and a little partying. The kids first did an Easter Egg hunt and Kyle got the concept right away. He actually opted to not do the mandatory group shot but instead, made a beeline for all the pretty plastic eggs. I intervened and stuck him in the picture but he had already stolen an egg or two and was too focused on those to smile. Then, the kids had to carry eggs on a spoon, around the tree and back again. If it's not apparent as you are reading this, the concept didn't go over so well. Most of the kids ended up dropping their eggs and stepping on them. Yup, that was more fun than the carrying them on the spoon part. Kyle actually threw his egg like a ball. In his defense, it does kind of look like one. Finally, the kids were supposed to guesstimate how many marshmallow candies and Nerds, Michelle had put into these cute Easter jars. Guesstimate just isn't a word that 2, 3 and 4 year olds use so that didn't quite work out. The mommys ended up guessing (with a little help on Michelle's part). The party was really fun and it was great having us all together again as all of us have been pretty busy.

Finally, the last group of photos is from tonight. We dyed Easter Eggs with the kids. I wasn't sure if I was going to have Kyle participate but I am glad I did as he had a blast. This is Kyle's first Easter with us and possibly his first one celebrating as I am not sure if his foster mom was a Christian or not. The egg dyeing went well and even Jerry got into the act. Let's just hope that tonight, Mr. Easter Bunny remembers to come and hide all the eggs.

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This station was cookie decorating. Glad I didn't get that one. :)

Pizza and a movie, what better way to educate a child

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Again, Gracie was picky with her eggs and only got a few

So careful not to drop her egg off the spoon

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Love the look on Kyle's face. He couldn't believe the egg turned blue!

Gracie's letter says:

Dear Bunny,

Hide some eggs. Hop back to your hole.

Love, Gracie

Back to Blogging

2011-04-22T15:39:00.000-07:00

Finally back after about a month's break. Have had a lot going on and a ton of pictures in which I will have to post to catch up. In the meantime, here is our traditonal photo with the Easter Bunny. Same bunny every year which is cool. This year was Kyle's first and I am happy to say that he didn't freak out like he did in December with Santa.

Previous year's pictures. 2008 2009 2010

Almost Here!

2011-03-18T18:27:00.000-07:00

So, I have 1 full day and a few hours left until the LA Marathon which is this Sunday. I am so proud and happy to say that I made my fundraising goal of $1,050.00, to cover Bonnie's surgery. I honestly didn't think I would make it but I did!!!! Thank you so much to those people that came through and supported me.

I can't believe that I will be walking this Sunday. It seems so long ago when I first started training, 16 weeks to be exact. A lot of stuff has happened between then and now but I am still walking. This was my last official week of training and I got really emotional on Monday while on the treadmill. I'm sure the other gym patrons enjoyed that!

When I first started this goal, I remember that in my mind, I would think about my kids being stranded somewhere and me having to walk to them. Sadly, the Japan earthquake happened last week and I had heard someone on tv who lives in Japan, saying that after the quake, everyone was walking and walking for hours and they were all so tired. Thinking about that, has become one of my new means of motivation because I could not imagine how scared they all must have been but they kept on going.

I also think of my brother Frank and how he was alive when I started this journey and now he's in heaven. He will be the angel on my back, giving me wings to fly.

"A marathoner is a marathoner regardless of time. Virtually everyone who tries the marathon has put in training over months, and it is that exercise and that commitment, physical and mental, that gives meaning to the medal, not just the day’s effort, be it fast or slow. It's all in conquering the challenge."

Mary R. Wittenberg, president, New York Road Runners Club:

All of the marathon participant's name were on this car

Up close picture of the car with my name. My name was there two times because there was a mix-up and someone registered me twice.

Frank's Life Celebration

2011-03-12T19:33:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, we celebrated Frank's life. He had told us all along, that he didn't want the occasion to be sad, only happy as he was very, very happy where he was at.

Frank had originally asked me to hold the memorial in my backyard as it's pretty big but then thought that it would be too much work for us. We did end up having the life service here at my house, as I felt that was the best place and I know that Frank would have been happy with how it turned out.

One of the many things that Frank loved was rainbows so that's what type of party we had. The service itself was really nice and the person who presided over it was awesome. I planned a butterfly release which went well and at the end, we had everyone write a message to Frank on white balloons and released them all at the same time. We played the song "Somewhere Over the Rainbow".

I was hit pretty hard after the service and felt depressed this week. I am slowly making my way out and starting to get back to my daily schedule. It's always difficult when you lose someone you love, especially at such a young age.

I know that Frank is watching over my family and I MISS him like crazy every single day. I wish he didn't have to go but God has a plan for everything. The poem below is one that I read at the service as it sums up Frank perfectly.

"A butterfly lights beside us like a sunbeam.
And for a brief moment its glory and beauty
belong to our world.
But then it flies on again,
and though we wish it could have stayed,
we feel so lucky to have seen it."

Anonymous

Rainbow cupcakes that I made

One of the butterflies that stayed around for a little while

It was a beautiful sight seeing all of the balloons in the air

Two of the balloons had broken away from the rest and were going straight up. I said that they were my mom and Frank.

Sad News

2011-03-03T20:29:00.000-08:00

I am so very saddened to write that my oldest brother Frank, passed away last Thursday. Frank passed away at the very young age of 52. He was battling lung cancer. I actually shouldn't even use the word battling because Frank chose not to do chemo or radiation as he wanted to have quality of life and spend it with us, those few precious months that he had left. I am also not going to say that he lost his fight because he didn't. To the very end, Frank never let the cancer get the best of him and always had a postive attitude. He was usually the one comforting those around him and even last week, told us that he was at peace with everything.

Shortly after Frank's transition, I received an email from the person who is going to preside over Frank's service. Here is a portion of what was written.

"Your brother was one of the kindest, most compassionate and loving people I have ever met. I kept thinking that I would be overcome with a great sense of loss but throughout the day I felt his presence. What a beautiful human he was...I can't imagine how glorious he is right now as he has transitioned from this world into a place that is free of pain & disease; is free of fear; is free of need or want...transitioned to a place of beauty, light, abundance in the very presence of God and the angels."

I get tears in my eyes as I read the above because I know it's true. Frank is at peace and that's all he ever wanted. That and to see my mom again and his dogs.

I love you very much brother and am going to miss you greatly. I know you are around watching over us from heaven.

17 Miles

2011-02-18T09:03:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday, I walked 17 miles as part of my training. It was a long way as I walked to the Queen Mary and back. I'm not going to lie, it was hard. My body ached for 3 days afterwards and I was really tired and to be honest, I have only walked 2 days this week. Then, last night, I got some news from my brother regarding his health and it started me thinking. Yes, I am burned and don't want to train any longer. Yes, I am tired of sweating almost every day. Yes, I want to start wearing make-up again and clothes other than work out ones. Yes, I have doubts all the time as to whether I can go 26.2miles. I just don't want to do this anymore.

With that being said, I need to stop whining. I am healthy and able to walk, unlike my brother, who is pain all the time now or Bonnie who is so courageous at her young age, to go through multiple surgeries. Not once has Frank complained about what he is going through and last night, he was actually encouraging me and telling me how much he admires me for doing this. It should be the other way around, with words of encouragement coming from my mouth.

So I continue on. I need to suck it up and keep going for all of those people that aren't able to. I am so close to my goal, only $435 away. So many unexpected people have stepped up to help support me with this. It's amazing and I can't thank these people enough.

Won't you please help me reach my goal for Bonnie and children like her. Anybody that donates $25 or more will be put into a raffle to win a free facial. Please click here to donate or click the thermometer on the side of my blog. If you want to write a check, mail it to me directly or to the following:

Love Without Boundaries
PO Box 25016
Oklahoma City, OK 73125-0016

Please note my name and LA Marathon 2011 in the memo portion of your check.

V Day

2011-02-15T18:19:00.000-08:00

I'm not gonna lie. I'm not a big fan of Valentine's Day. I just don't understand paying for overpriced flowers, chocolates and declaring one's love to another on one day. This "holiday" really sucks for those people that are single. Add that to the fact that I haven't been feeling that great the last couple of days and there ya go. I sucked it up for Gracie though because she loves every holiday and always wants to know which one is next.

While Kyle was taking nap, Gracie and I made cookies. This is where I had to let go of the control, as normally when I am baking, I like to have things a set way. When I bake with Gracie, I usually have her put in the ingredients with me, mix and then I take over the rest. This time, I decided to let her roll the cookies and put them on the sheet. I gotta tell you, this was very difficult but I bit my tongue and allowed Gracie to make super small cookies and super big ones, without my saying a word. The cookies turned out great and in the future, am really going to make more of an effort to let go and allow the kids to take over and have at it.

Daddy brought home something a little special for both kids and Kyle really enjoyed his!

East Meets West

2011-02-11T20:54:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, we met some of the Lucky Mommys for some Disneyland fun. Disneyland is celebrating Chinese New Year and had a bunch of activites going on. We got there late because Gracie had preschool so we missed most of the activities but we did get some cute pictures with Mulan and Mickey and Minnie dressed in their traditional clothing. It was a lot of fun but really crowded and hot. It was about 78* today in SoCal and it's only February!!! Gracie had fun though and Kyle too. We even managed to get on a few rides, before heading home.

Gracie watched Mulan for the first time last week. She's not really crazy about this princess as she's more into the girly ones such as Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty.

All the beautiful girls!

Week 11 Walking Update

2011-02-09T18:42:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that it's already week 11! Only a few more to go until the marathon. Training went fine last week and while my fellow walking mommys were off walking the half HB Marathon, I was doing some training time and maybe playing in Laughlin. For those of you who aren't familiar with Laughlin, it's a more laid back version of Vegas but a lot smaller and right on the river. I did manage to get 5 miles in on the treadmill, overlooking the pool. It wasn't the 13 miles that my friends walked but hey, I was with them in spirit.

I've gotten more donations so more shout outs. Thank you so much to: Carol, Steve, Susan, Jeri, Tracy and Nancy!!!! I truly from the bottom of my heart, appreciate all the people that are supporting me in my walk for Bonnie.

Speaking of which, I still have a long way to reach my goal. If you feel compelled at all, please click on the thermometer and donate. Any amount would be awesome!

The beach in front of the hotel in Laughlin. In the summer, it's so relaxing to put a lounge chair in the water.

My Dad, the typical jokester!

This is what Gracie and Kyle were doing while mommy was away

Part of our LA walking team, at the HB Marathon.

Happy Chinese New Year!!!!

2011-02-03T08:52:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day of the Lunar New Year. Gracie asked to wear her traditional outfit to school today which I think is awesome that she wanted to do that. Jerry mentioned to her last night that she might be the only one to wear one (she was) but she responded in such a mature manner, "Oh well!". Love that she was confident enough to stand out.

I thought it would be cute to look back and see how much Gracie has changed. One thing that has stayed consistent, is that beautiful smile of hers. I don't have a picture of her in traditional dress from 2008, her first New Year with us as she had a fractured leg with a bright pink cast from thigh to foot. I will also have more pictures in a couple of weeks, when we have our Lucky Mommy celebration.

Gung Hay Fat Choy to everyone which means much prosperity or many good wishes!

Weekly Walking Update

2011-01-31T20:50:00.000-08:00

Walking last week was difficult for me. Not sure why but I didn't have the energy and I wanted to throw in the towel. I actually didn't walk on Wednesday and Friday, cut my walk from 4 to 3 miles. I really wanted to quit but I thought of Bonnie and how she is counting on me so I continued with one foot in front of the other. I'm glad I did as today's 4 miles went much better and I had more energy than I did all week. Saturday, the other moms and I walked 10 miles and we did great, averaging around 16 minute miles. I sure hope I can keep up that pace during the marathon.

I've also had some people donate so a HUGE shout out to Dad, Colleen, and G!!! I am humbled and feel so much gratitude that people would take the time to support me in this journey. I still have a long way to go with fundraising so please, any amount is helpful, even if it's $5. That $5 could change a child's life, especially Bonnies.

A couple weeks ago, the whole family walked together. Well, it was more like Jerry and I walked and Gracie and Kyle rode. It's awesome to have the support of my family and it's so cute because every Saturday when I go to walk, Gracie asks me, "Are you going to walk for Bonnie?". I love it!!!

The ride wore Kyle out, lol

We had summer type weather, hence the flip flops and short sleeves

Don't forget, you can click on the thermomter to donate electronically or click here For check donation, see post below this one or at the top of my blog, there is a link titled Walking for Bonnie which contains that info. You can also send the check directly to me and I will forward it.

LA Marathon

2011-01-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

This past November, I was whining to my friend Karen about how out of shape I was and really needed to do something about it as I could barely walk up a set of stairs without huffing and puffing. Karen, who is a volunteer coordinator for an awesome organization called Love Without Boundaries that helps orphaned children in China, mentioned to me that she was going to sponsor a child through the organization and walk the LA Marathon in March and why didn't I join her and our other friend Paula. After I finished laughing, I realized that she was actually serious. I couldn't believe the next words that came out of my mouth but I said yes and the next thing that I knew, I was given a training schedule for the next 16 weeks.

My first day of training way back in that first week of December was VERY difficult. I was to walk an easy pace of 3 miles. Let's put it this way, Jerry went to the gym with me and was still waiting for me after an hour and 15 minutes. Gradually, each day of walking started to get a little bit easier. As the length of walks started getting longer and longer, I had to dig deep and a lot of emotions went through me (they still do) as I trained.

When I tell people people that I am walking the LA Marathon, they think I am nuts. Sure, in the beginning, I wanted to get in shape but as those days of walking rolled by and it was just the treadmill and I, I really had time to think. Each time I want to quit, I think about all the people I am walking for. Bonnie, the little girl that I am sponsoring and all the kids in China that are just like her, waiting for forever families. The people that would like to walk the marathon but can't or think they can't. My brother Frank who was just diagnosed this last July with Stage 4 lung cancer at the age of 52.

Now that you know my "story", I am writing this post to ask just one thing of you. Please sponsor me, so Bonnie, the little girl I am walking for, can get her surgery. Bonnie has a repaired cleft lip and still needs to have her palate repaired. The amount that I am raising is $1050.00, which is the cost of Bonnie's surgery. What does $1050.00 mean to most people? A new tv, a computer, a down payment for a car. For Bonnie, this amount could mean a chance for a new life, a chance to be adopted.

Think about it. What if it were your child, your grandchild, niece, nephew or a child you deeply cared about? How far would you walk for them? I know that if it were Gracie or Kyle, I would walk forever....

Please click here to sponsor me via debit or credit card. Or, you can click on the thermometer, located at the sidebar of my blog. If you prefer to write a check, you can send it directly to me or send it to:

Love Without Boundaries

P.O. Box 25016

Oklahoma City, OK 73125-0016

Make sure you note my name and LA Marathon 2011 on the memo portion of your check.

Every week, I will update my blog to let you know my training progress is going.

Happy New Year!!

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

Happy New Year Wish

My Happy New Year wish for you
Is for your best year yet,
A year where life is peaceful,
And what you want, you get.

A year in which you cherish
The past year’s memories,
And live your life each new day,
Full of bright expectancies.

I wish for you a holiday
With happiness galore;
And when it’s done, I wish you
Happy New Year, and many more.

By Joanna Fuchs

Christmas Pictures

2010-12-25T19:16:00.000-08:00

The days leading up to Christmas day were quite busy for me. I ended up getting sick the week before (just like last year) so all of my good intentions went down the drain and had me up until 1am for 2 nights in a row. Everything was well worth it though when the kids woke up on Christmas morning and saw the presents under the tree and their stockings full.

This year, I felt especially blessed. Not only because we have a roof over our heads, food on the table and Jerry has a job but because we brought home our beautiful son Kyle in May and now our family is complete. Sure, every now and then, I feel the little itch of having another child but I know that deep inside my heart, it is meant for us to have only Kyle and Gracie and reach out in other ways. If someday down the road, we get a sibling call from Korea, of course we would adopt again but for now, I know this is the way it's supposed to be.

On Christmas morning, I don't know who was more excited, Jerry or the kids. Jerry woke me up at 7am and kept asking if Gracie was awake yet and peeking at her presents under the tree. Gracie finally woke up and the festivities began. Gracie and Kyle both got 3 presents from Santa (the rest were from us) because I don't want to make Christmas a "Santa" thing and everything from him. I want Gracie and Kyle to realize that not only is Christmas about presents, but that it's the day Jesus was born and it's the season for giving to others. I think a lot of people tend to forget that.

After opening presents in the morning, we got ready and went to my dad's house for Christmas dinner and more presents. All of us were very tired when we went to bed that night but oh so happy and filled with more love than I could ever express.

Kyle really got into opening his presents and he kept wanting to give everyone theirs

Princess stuff, of course!

Santa brought Gracie a princess car that she had been asking for. She was in total shock when she saw the car as it was outside and I really don't think she expected it.

Kyle literally ran inside when he saw Gracie driving the car around

Oops!

Gracie grabbed her purse and was ready to go

Dad's tree

Frank prepared ham, pork and roast beef, yummy!

Kyle loved his Buzz chair

Jerry had taken this picture when we were in China and I had it blown up

That's all folks!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Knott's Merry Farm

2010-12-16T14:55:00.000-08:00

As we progress further into the Christmas Season, my mother-in-law June, brother Frank, and I decided that we would take the kids to Knott's on Monday. Normally, I am a Disneyland fantatic but Knott's has had a great deal going on with their season passes where you buy one for $60 bucks and get in for the year, with no block out dates. We decided to get some use out of these passes and check out the Christmas going ons at the park. Aside from that, Knott's also has some bad ass big roller coasters that Frank and I wanted to go on. When we got there, we circled the parking area about 3 times. I guess the higher ups decided that now would be a good time to close off a bunch of the handicap parking spots which my mother-in-law needs and also rope off the timed parking too. After we finally found a spot which required me to back up down a one way street, we were off to have some fun!

The park was blissfully empty and Frank and I were able to walk on almost every coaster. Gracie and Kyle had a ton of fun in the kiddy section, along with Grandma who is not a thrill seeker. Gracie my brave girl, who is turning out to be more and more like mommy in liking the bigger rides, went on her first "big girl" coaster. Now keep in mind, Gracie has gone on Thunder Mountain at Disneyland but those are the more mellow coasters. The coaster that Gracie went on at Knott's doesn't compare (see picture below). Frank and I weren't sure if Gracie would make it on as the height requirement was 42" and if you looked at Gracie's head just right, from down below, she was tall enough. The lady did measure Gracie when it was our turn to go on and she must have seen that strand of hair standing up too as the worker allowed Gracie on the ride.

After we all had our share of fun, we topped off the night by eating at Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner restaurant which is famous in our neck of the woods. It was a great way to spend time with family and I have to say, that I am proud of myself as I didn't throw up one time after Gracie dragged me on all the spinning rides.

These figurines are really old and date back from a long time ago. There used to be more until they remodeled the park and took a bunch out.

Gracie's big roller coaster. So proud of my brave girl who LOVED the ride!

Gracie got called up to be the jingle bell ringer. She had a little bit of stage fright but looked so cute!

Having fun in Camp Snoopy!

Kyle is finally beginning to warm up to Santa

Did I mention that candy canes are one of Kyle's favorites?

One of the few pictures of me that I actually like and will post for the public to see. :)

The Polar Express

2010-12-11T21:13:00.000-08:00

Last night we took a 1.5 hour trek to go on the Polar Express train. Gracie was excited since she saw the 20 minute 3D version at Sea World a couple weekends ago and we also showed her the full length feature, the night before. Gracie kept wanting to know if Santa was going to be there and if it was cold at the North Pole.

The ride itself was fairly short, about a 1 hour round trip but it wasn't about the ride, it was the experience. Aboard the train, the kids got to wear their pajamas. Adults were allowed to wear theirs also but we opted out. The elves on board served us chocolate milk and cookies. I wish they gave massages too. The kids were given bells, just like from the movie and we sang Christmas carols. When we finally arrived at the North Pole, there was Santa standing at the side of the train, waving at us! Gracie got super excited then and could barely contain herself. She waited oh so patiently for him to make his way through the train cars until it was finally her turn. It was a long wait too as we were in the very last seat. Kyle also had a good time and even though he's not crazy about the big fat man, Kyle allowed Santa to give him a candy cane which is one of his favorite candies this season.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Kyle and Santa's helper Aunt Debbie

A very cool picture that Jerry took which I played around with in Photoshop

The conductor was super nice to both kids. He even allowed them to wear his hat

Kyle unfortunately, was not too thrilled with the hat

Santa waiting for us to arrive

The kids loved the bells and Gracie made hers into a necklace

This is about as close as Kyle will get to Santa without crying and it's only because Santa is bribing Kyle with the candy cane

The kids waving bye to Santa. Right after Kyle got his candy cane, he was done with Santa and quickly said bye, bye and waved.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T18:56:00.001-08:00

We have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Obviously one of the things we are most thankful for is that we brought Kyle home this year. This was his first Thanksgiving and not only that, he has been home with us for 6 months which means that we had our final post-placement visit and he we will now be able to legally adopt him. Kyle also turned 18 months old this past Tuesday. This time last year, we were in deep pain regarding our first referral and what to do. I am so thankful that God led us to the path that was meant for us. Kyle is such a blessing and is doing so much now.

At 18 months, Kyle can say many words such as bye, bye, baby, and down. Kyle understands everything we say and if you ask him to throw something away or get a tissue, he will do it. Just the other day, I caught him taking a tissue, blowing his own nose, and throwing the tissue away in the trash! Kyle loves to go to Disneyland and his favorite rides are the ones that spin. Of course those would be his favorite as they make me want to throw up! He's still allergic to milk but Kyle loves to eat almost everything. One of his favorite things right now are mini marshmallows.

I am very grateful and blessed that we have Kyle and Gracie. I was feeling very loved the other day as I was putting out the Christmas decorations and I stopped for a second as Kyle and Gracie both wanted to sit on my lap, so I pulled them both on and we had snuggle time. Tonight at dinner, as I was listening to Gracie chatter away, I couldn't imagine life any other way.

No matter where you are in the path of life, always know that there is somebody who is thinking of you and loves you. We wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!

This year, I nixed the store bought decorations in favor of the ones that Gracie made in preschool

Turning the tables on me

Happy first Thanksgiving Kyle!

Dad fell asleep before we started eating

Are you serious, I get to eat all this?!

Colorado Trip, Mining Town

2010-11-17T19:22:00.000-08:00

Last month, we went out to CO to visit our very good friends, the B's. For privacy, I will use their initials in my posts. We met the B's before we adopted Gracie as G. and I met online and were talking, before we even discovered that we were with the same adoption agency and in the same travel group. It was a frienship that was meant to be and I cherish it so. G. and I email each other almost every day and try to see each other at least once a year. This year was especially nice because G. and her daughter B., were able to come out for Gracie's birthday and then all of us flew back to CO for B.'s party. B.'s birthday is only 6 days after Gracies.

CO is very beautiful, but especially this time of year. The falls leaves were just gorgeous and were all different types of color. It so makes me wish that we had some trees like that in our area. G. kept trying to convince Jerry and I to move to CO but I kept saying that unless they had an ocean, it wouldn't be happening any time soon. :) Oh, and let's not forget about Disneyland as I need to have my monthly fix.

One of the things that we did when we were in CO is go to a mining town. I was freaked out because the guy that showed us the video and gave a whole spiel on the mine, was kind of creepy. Jerry and everyone else kept trying to convince me that the old guy was fine and really wasn't going to hack up our bodies and leave us somewhere in the hills. I still wasn't convinced and as we drove up the hill, I kept planning my escape route, just in case..... Hey, I've seen plenty of horror movies in my time to know better. As you can see since I am typing this blog post, that we made it down the mountain all in one piece. Thank goodness!

We panned for gold after the mine tour. Jerry was a pro as he has done this before. He was able to get some flecks of gold but I have no idea where they are now!

Some of the beautiful trees with a nice waterfall in the background

G. hasn't been able to eat pizza in a long time and was soooooo happy that this place made a dairy free one that she could eat. Kyle was happy too as it was his first slice of pizza.

Waitin' for pizza

M., G's son, was so patient with all the kids. Here they are doing a dog pile on him!

October Wrap Up

2010-11-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

October was a VERY busy month for us. We had so much stuff going on that I am still trying to recover! I love October as my favorite holiday, Halloween falls in it. Not only that, but so does Gracie's birthday and we are into the heart of fall which also happens to be my favorite season. If October were a person, it would be my best friend. :)

The month kicked off with me going to Disneyland. I think we went there about 6 or 7 times in October. After that, our very good friends came out from CO to help celebrate Gracie's birthday (those photos will be in a different post), then came Gracie's birthday, we went back to CO, throw in a couple of Halloween parties and let's not forget about Halloween, and there you go!!! Geesh, I'm tired just from writing all of that.

Instead of trying to catch up with all the pictures, I decided to do one gigantic posting. I am hoping that November will be a little more quieter and so far, it seems to be starting off that way.

We started the month by going to Mickey's Trick or Treat party. My brother and sister-in-law ended up going and we had an awesome time, despite the rain. I think we need to make it a family tradition. In the last picture, my brother Frank and I took a special day and went to Disneyland by ourselves while Grandma watched the kids. It was such a blast as we got to go on Space Mountain and all of the "adult" rides that I normally don't get to partake in.

Since Gracie had a tea party with only friends for her birthday party, we went out to dinner with the family to celebrate Gracie's birthday. When I asked her where she wanted to eat, I was expecting Red Robin or something like that but no, Gracie told me she wanted to go to Mamma Cozzas to eat, much to the dissapointment of Jerry and I as we can't really stand the place. It's Grandpa's favorite restaurant and when he heard where Gracie wanted to eat, I think he jumped for joy. Personally, I think he bribed Gracie to say she wanted to eat there!

Our friend Michelle from the Lucky Mommy's Group hosted a Halloween party at her house. Both Gracie and Kyle had a blast.

This was our second trip to the pumpkin patch. I wasn't happy with the way the first pictures turned out as the kids were tired when we went the first time so I jumped at the chance to go again!

This year, Gracie actually touched the guts of the pumpkin which is way more than last year as she cried and refused. Kyle was a brave little guy too and touched the guts but I'm not sure how thrilled he was about doing so. He was also more interested in sitting on the pumpkins and saying cheese than doing anything else. The princess pumpkin was started by me and after about an hour of huffing and puffing, Jerry my sweet hubby came over and finished it up. It's not free hand but it was very difficult to carve.

From my family to yours, Happy Halloween!

Birthday Pictures

2010-10-24T21:18:00.000-07:00

This year for Gracie's party, she had a princess tea theme. The kids all came in their princess outfits, minus the boys of course and everyone drank tea (lemonade) from porcelain tea cups, had sandwiches in the shape of castles, shoes, and crowns, and of course, what would be a princess party without the appearance of Cinderella! All of the guests were in awe of Cinderella who did an excellent job. Cinderella even stayed a little bit over, even though the clock was striking midnight. I think the party was a success and I can't wait to start planning for the next one.

Gracie and her very good friend Boo who came all the way from Colorado to help celebrate.

Gracie had a blast drinking from a real tea cup

My good friend G. here from CO who did an awesome job face painting

Ta Da!

Her Royal Highness

Learning how to dance like a lady

Of course the mommies had to pose with Cinderella

Yes, Jerry had to get in on the action too!

The kids making a wish. Love the concentration on their faces.

ZZZZZZZZ

Happy 4th Birthday Gracie!

2010-10-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my sweet baby girl's 4th birthday! We are spending Gracie's birthday in CO but even though we are in another state, I couldn't go by without doing a post for her birthday. It seems like yesterday, she just turned 1, had no hair and barely any teeth. Today, I have a funny, confident, smart little girl who is the light of our lives. I couldn't imagine what life would be like without Gracie.

Today is also a day of reflection for me as I think about Gracie's birth family so far away in China and wonder if they are thinking of her on this day. My emotions are probably completely different than what theirs are on this day and if I had one wish, it would be that they knew that Gracie is doing okay.

When I get back to CA, I will post pictures of Gracie's princess party. Below is a picture that I was quickly able to post from the party before we left for our trip.

Thankful Thursday a Little Early

2010-09-22T18:04:00.000-07:00

I normally don't partake in Thankful Thursday but as I was making dinner tonight, I happened to glance out the sliding glass door window and what I saw, was simply beautiful. My family. Jerry sitting on the seesaw pushing Kyle in his swing, Gracie running up the stairs getting ready to go down the slide and Wrigley, our dog running around like a maniac. Everyone looked so happy and I stopped for a moment, and thanked God for blessing me with more than I could have ever imagined.

When I complain that the house is too noisy, there was a time when it was silent.

When I complain about not getting enough sleep, there was a time when I didn't have a little body snuggled up next to me.

When I complain that I don't have any time to myself, there was a time when I didn't hear those sweet words of mommy.

There was once a time when my heart was broken and now it's healed.

I want to end my post with the prayer that Gracie said at dinner tonight.

"Thank you God for giving us the food to eat. Thank you God for Kyle and for Kyle not eating his fingers and thank you God for Knott's Berry Farm. Amen".

I don't think I could have said it better myself.

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First Day of Preschool

2010-09-14T22:12:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday was Gracie's first day of preschool at her new school. Last year, she went to our church preschool. I decided to change schools because our church is about 20 minutes away by freeway and her new school is literally 5 minutes from us. I kept worrying that we were going to have the "big" one (earthquake) and I wouldn't be able to reach her quickly. It was a difficult decision but the right one as she really likes her new school and since it's a public one, I am hoping that she will go to kindergarten there next year and be with the same group of children. On her first day though, when I asked Gracie how her new school was, she said great but they didn't go to church!

Gracie's first day was very emotional for me. I kept thinking about how my baby is growing up and next year, she will be off to full-day kindergarten. I still have my little guy at home to which I am grateful for but then my mind started wandering (gee, is never does that) and I thought that pretty soon, he will be off to school too! I was also emotional because there was a little Vietnamese boy in Gracie's classroom that kept crying and crying. His parents where nowhere to be seen. The teacher then asked one of the other parents if they spoke Vietnamese because this little boy did not understand or speak any English. It was so very sad and I said a prayer for him. I could not imagine how scared he must have been.

Walking into Gracie's classroom every day has really made me miss teaching too. I miss seeing the excitement on the kid's faces when they learn a new song, the lightbulb that goes off when they are first learning to read or the big hugs they used to give me by wrapping their little arms around my legs. But you know what? I get to be a mom and watch my children grow everyday and when my kids wrap their little arms around my legs and Gracie tells me that she loves me, I know I am exactly where I am supposed to be, at home with Gracie and Kyle.

Bloggy Break

2010-09-06T17:34:00.000-07:00

I didn’t start off taking a bloggy break for the summer but somehow, it just ended up that way. It all started when we went on vacation, wayyyy back in July and our computer decided to crash when we got back and I lost a bunch of pictures on the computer and it just continued from there. I did have people subtly, and not so subtly ask me, when I was going to start blogging again but the longer I took off, the more comfortable it became. We did a lot this summer from the beach, water parks, etc. so in my defense, we were pretty busy. I do have a whole bunch of pictures that I need to post although, I have to admit, a lot not mine as I decided to take a camera break too. I will try to blog in order of the way summer went but may jump from here to there and back again. I do want to say thank you to all my friends who have allowed me to ~~steal,~~ borrow their pictures.

In July, we went camping to Lake Tahoe for the 4th of July. Tahoe is one of our favorite places to visit and this was Kyle's first camping trip. The drive there was rather long and we got horrible gas mileage in the "beast", around 7 miles per gallon but Jerry and I have always wanted to go to Tahoe for the 4th and it didn't disappoint. The weather was beautiful, actually warmer than here and I didn't have access to the Internet for a whole week, nor did I watch tv and it was actually pretty nice! I got to read 4 books, something I never get to do here, so I feel as though I accomplished something. Jerry perfected the making of the S'more by the end of the trip and all of us had a blast and we can't wait to go camping again.

When you are coming down the mountain, you get a gorgeous glimpse of Lake Tahoe in the background

Gracie the princess that she is, insisted on wearing her tutu, even though we were camping

Yummy S'mores. If you've never had one, you are definitely missing out!

First S'more of the trip, with many more to come

Kyle's DOL

2010-06-29T21:16:00.001-07:00

I was recently informed by one of my good friends, who shall remain nameless but you know who you are, that I am not blogging enough! So I decided that I guess it's about time that I posted pictures from Kyle's DOL (1st birthday party). It really hasn't been that long since these photos were taken, just a couple okay maybe 3 weeks give or take. The party did take place in June so technically, I am still good.

A DOL is a big celebration that happens in Korea. Back in the day, which I am not exactly sure when but it sounds cool writing it, there was a high mortality rate for infants in Korea so if one made it to his/her first birthday, the celebration was huge. I knew that if Kyle were still in Korea, he would have had that celebration so I did my best to replicate it here, under the grumblings and protests of my hubby.

I decided to do a jungle theme for Kyle. Our very close and great friends from CO who sadly couldn't be here for the party, worked really hard and created two very cool towers which were strictly made from nerds and beans for the party. Along with those items, I had a wish tree which I snagged the idea from another blogger who lives close by and the traditional Dolijabi game where whatever the child chooses, that is going to be there profession when they get older. Kyle picked thread which means he is going to have a long life and the second item he picked was a book which means scholar/teacher. Myself being a teacher, I was very happy that he chose that! Since Kyle is allergic to milk, I made him a dairy free one which he dug into and loved! I think the party was a success and everyone had a good time. I believe that Kyle's foster family in Korea would be very proud. :)

Poor Gracie was feeling horrible but you wouldn't know it by this picture

Table with traditional game and wish tree

My handmade table decorations

Poor Kyle didn't get to have one bite of this yummy cake

Tower made from beans and nerds

I think this picture is so cute!

Katie had a total blast on the swings

Poor Andrew, Gracie is bullying the boys already. She grabbed his hand and wouldn't let go. Don't you love the look on Andrew's face?

Kyle and Granny Joy

Kyle wasn't quite sure what to think of the farm lady

Hey, look who made an appearance, it's the Italian version of John Wayne

Kyle in his traditional Hanbok that was given to us by his foster mom

Kyle definitely enjoyed his dairy free cake

Kyle enjoying his first lollypop because he didn't get enough sugar during the party

Opening his presents

Wow, a new car!!!!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T20:22:00.000-07:00

I wish I could list all the reasons why I love my dad. He is a compassionate, outspoken, Italian guy who makes everybody laugh with his sense of humor. My dad has been through a lot in his life, starting at the age of 18 when he was diagnosed with throat cancer and then again when I was 3 with thyroid cancer. He made it past those hurtles and is relatively healthy still working part-time today. I owe a lot to my dad and look up to him. I really cherish those special Mondays when we go grocery shopping or run errands together. It may seem like a mundane thing but we get to spend time with him and he loves seeing the grandchildren that he has waited so long for. He loves Gracie and Kyle with all his heart and if anybody ever did anything to them, well, put it this way, my dad is Italian, enough said. :) Thanks dad for being there and we love you with all our hearts!!

Jerry is the other special man in my life. He is an awesome father to Gracie and Kyle and works so hard at his job so that I may stay home to be with the kids. Whenever Jerry gets home from work, Gracie's eyes light up and she goes running to her Daddy and gives him a huge hug. Jerry is a sensitive guy who has taught Gracie so much. I can always count on him as he is my rock and I feel instantly better when I am in a panic. I feel so lucky to have Jerry in my life and blessed that he is a great dad as there are a lot of men out there who have kids but aren't great fathers. Today at church, the pastor was talking about how it's now only the man's job to bring home the bacon but to be the spiritual head of the household and that is what Jerry is. I love you honey and so do the kids.

Gracie and her "vampire" teeth

Gracie and her Daddy

Uncle Peter who is not a dad but treats his niece and nephew just like they are his own children.

Forever Family Day

2010-06-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Three years ago today, I held Gracie in my arms. I still remember the day as though it was yesterday. Gracie came out bouncing up and down and so alert. She was placed in my arms and was still bouncing around, such an easy going baby. My little baby has grown up to be my beautiful little girl, inside and out. She is a sensitive soul and gets hurts easily if someone is mean to her. She loves to help out and be the little "mother" to everyone. Gracie makes friends easily and talks to everyone. Her current favorite phrase is "Why Mommy?" and her favorite colors are pink and purple. Gracie is such a girly girl and is constantly dressing up like a princess with make-up, jewelry, the whole bit. My daughter is very smart and has a wicked memory. She can remind you of something that happened over a year ago. Gracie loves to sing and will make up her own songs. She LOVES talking in "Chinese" and if you ask her what does this mean or that in Chinese, she will tell you. I could go on and on about my daughter but I would take up the whole page. We love you so much Gracie girl and are so happy that God has brought you into our lives. My Dad says that Gracie brought him alive again after my mom's death and that's a prefect way to describe Gracie as she touches lives everywhere she goes.

A daughter is the happy memories of the past, the joyful moments of the present, and the hope and promise of the future. -- Author Unknown

Disneyland!

2010-06-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, we took Kyle on his very first trip to Disneyland. Now if you are like my husband, who would be happy if he never visited again, you are probably saying who cares, right about now. But, if you are like me or any of my friends, this is a monumental event! Disneyland is a big part of our lives and almost like a passage of rights. When you are in my family, the first thing you get when you turn 3, is a Disneyland pass. We started taking Gracie when she was just 10 months old and she loves it there. I don't know what it is, but I can be in a horrific mood and walk into the place and just feel happy. Well, maybe not on a super busy day but for most of the time, yes.

So we loaded the kids into the car, along with the gazillion items that we needed for Kyle, including the double stroller and off we went. I figured it wouldn't be too crowded since Memorial Day was that previous Monday but as usual, I was wrong. The place was packed, more than I have seen it in a while but we did manage to get on a few rides that weren't crowded and Kyle did really well, better than my hubby who hates, did I mention hates crowds. We even got to visit the famous mouse who Kyle wasn't sure what to do with but he did manage to touch Mickey's nose which in my book is a success.

Getting ready for the tram

The famous castle

Our first family portrait with Mickey. Not sure why Mickey is wearing winter apparel but hey, whatever!

Who the heck is this mouse mom?

If you look at the roller coaster, second from front, you can spot Jerry and Gracie

The happiest place on earth!

Pool Party!

2010-05-31T20:50:00.001-07:00

Sorry for my lack of blogging, it's been pretty busy having two kids that by the time night falls, and I have time to blog, I am too tired to do anything but sit on the couch and gel. Things are going good around our house. Kyle is settling in and has now been sleeping in his crib for over a week. It took time and patience but he now pretty much sleeps through the night and doesn't wake up after 1/2 of being put in his crib (I don't want to jinx myself so enough of that). Naps are a different story as he doesn't take them for very long, unless he falls asleep on me or in the car. I am able to transfer him easily to the couch or stroller where he will nap for a long time but the crib, forget it! I also took Kyle for his first haircut on Saturday (see first picture). I wanted him to have a faux hawk as I think they are so cute on little boys. I was worried that he didn't have enough hair and when the hairdresser pulled out the clippers, I started to panic that Kyle would end up with no hair but the style turned out pretty cute and he now looks like a little boy.

This past week, Kyle has also been diagnosed with an allergy to milk. Last Saturday, he started to break out in hives and they were pretty bad on Sunday. I took him to the pediatrician on Monday who ordered a blood test to check for all food allergies. It took a week and the poor guy was stuck on formula only, little did we know that the formula was causing the allergy which we ended up switching to a soy based one on Thursday and Friday, we found out that Kyle has the milk allergy which means no dairy at all. It's amazing what items they put dairy in these days and I now have to read ALL labels. Did you know that Ragu sauce contains cheese?! We did go to Whole Foods today and found a bunch of items that are made from soy, including cheese, pudding and yogurt so I am ecstatic about that. Kyle's happy that he can eat again. :) Kyle also has a very slight allergy to eggs. Wednesday, Kyle also went in for his 1st year check up and the doctor said that he is right on target which is great as all the well baby checks from Korea had him about a month behind in devolopment.

Finally, yesterday we went to my brother and sister-in-law's house to go swimming. Gracie loved playing with her cousin Kevin in the pool and Kyle dipped his toes in too. In a couple of weeks, we are having Kyle's DOL which is his first birthday so I am busy planning that now too. Our social worker is also coming this Thursday and we plan on taking the kid's to Disneyland this Wednesday so pictures of that coming soon!

Whew, I think I wrote enough so enjoy the pictures!

Kyle's first haircut, isn't he adorable?!

Gracie and Aunt Debbie

Kyle slept through the first half of the party, lol!

Gracie loves her cousin Kevin

With Grandma

We celebrated my sister and mother-in-law's birthdays early. This is the first cake I've decorated by myself since taking my classes a couple months ago.

Check out Kevin and Gracie

2010-05-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday to our special boy. Jerry made this video shortly after we came home. It's simply beautiful and will make you cry. We love you our precious boy and are so happy that our prayers were answered and we could be with you on this very special day. My heart aches for your birth mom as I know how much she wanted to keep you but circumstances would not allow for it. Prayers are for her on this day that she has peace and comfort and somehow knows that you are much loved. Prayers for your foster mom too as I know she is thinking of you too on this special day.

PS~ For some reason, the video cuts off so sorry for that. :)

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Adjustments

2010-05-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

These last few days, actually nights have been very difficult. We are all still jet lagged and trying to get into a schedule/routine. Nighttime is the worse for Kyle and I am trying to figure out a way that's best for him to get a good night's rest. Kyle hates his crib, doesn't like the pack n play or his high chair, unless he is given a snack. He will tolerate the exersaucer but I think it's because his foster mom had one in Korea for him but he only likes to play in it for a short time. He is bonding to us as he cries when we leave the room and wants to be held all of the time which makes it difficult for getting things done around the house. I do have the Ergo and think I may have to strap him to my back so I can clean the house.

As I mentioned, the sleeping issues are the worst. I think Gracie is finally back to "normal" as she went to sleep last night and awoke around 5am and came into our room but the rest of us are still messed up. Kyle does fall asleep easily and I can transfer him to the crib but he will wake up about 30 to 45 minutes later, crying his head off. The first time he did this which was Tuesday night, I went in and got him, fed him the bottle but he did not want me to sit or lay down with him at all. All of us were up pretty much all night. Gracie who is trying to adjust too, started bawling her head off. We all finally fell asleep in mine and Jerry's bed until around 11am in the morning. Wednesday night was a little better with Kyle allowing us to sit down with him but he did not fall asleep again until about 3 hours later. Last night, I tried a new strategy of putting the pack n play in our room and putting him down in that. It worked for about 30 minutes but then Kyle started bawling. This time, it only took him 2 hours to fall asleep and he slept in our bed until 10am this morning. He stops crying the minute we pick him up and will lay on me or next to me without crying so that is a little baby step. Kyle is also teething big time so that is not helping with the sleeping as the poor guy is in pain.

For myself, I have been having insomnia at night. I think I am on edge, waiting for Kyle's cry so I can comfort him and I've also felt very guilty as it's been hard trying to balance my attention between two kids. I fell asleep for about 10 minutes last night and woke up in a panic. My whole body was shaking and I felt like I couldn't breathe. It was the typical panic attack and exhaustion. Jerry calmed me down and I was able to go back to sleep until 11am this morning. On a positive note, we are all fed, alive, and the laundry is done. :) Even though I have more bags than Samsonite as Jerry tells me, I know things will get better.

Kyle was in Jerry's lap and Gracie wanted in on the fun too

Gracie getting in some down time yesterday while Jerry took Kyle out for a bit

We ventured out to Costco and Target on Wednesday and Jerry took this cute picture of the kids in the double Costco cart

First Day Home

2010-05-18T17:05:00.000-07:00

We made it home, yay! The plane flight was not my favorite. Not because of Kyle and Gracie. They were both champs as Gracie settled in to watch the shows on the monitor and then fell asleep and Kyle fell asleep during taking off, slept for three hours and then went back down before landing. Nope, it wasn't the kids, it was me. I do not and I mean do not like to fly. Even with my drugs, there was some pretty bad turbulance that had me grabbing Jerry's hand so hard, he lost feeling. After we finally landed, we waited until the plane was almost empty to get our tons of stuff and go. I think we had more stuff coming home then going! We finally made our way through immigration to where we were told that we had to go to the line for foreigners. We waited in line with all of our passport information and it was finally our turn. Gee, I almost felt like I was trying to get into the state of Arizona. :)

My good friend Karen and my dad were waiting for us at the airport. Karen had brought us dinner and has it organized where my friends are going to bring us dinners for a week or so which is awesome. After saying our goodbyes to Karen, we put Kyle in his car seat. His foster mom said he likes riding in the car but had never been in a car seat. I said a little prayer as Jerry buckled Kyle in and he did great on the ride home!!

Last night, I rocked Kyle to sleep and put him in his crib as I am transitioning him to sleep in it. He's always slept with his foster mom but we have a tiny house and our room is so small that we don't have space for a crib and when Jerry goes back to work, he wakes up super early and Kyle moves all over the place. Anyway, Kyle slept until around 12:50am and woke up crying. I gave him a bottle and rocked him but he was so uncomfortable that I finally moved to the office couch. Kyle did fall asleep around 3AM and I put him back in his crib until he slept until 7:40ish. I brought him in our bed where Gracie lay sleeping as she had a rough that had Jerry reading to her until 3am also! About 10am, I heard a loud thump and sat up fearing one of the kids had fallen out of bed. Not sure how possible as they were between us. Yes, it was the big kid, Jerry who had fallen out of the bed. See no room, that is why we don't co-sleep. :) The kids finally woke up super late this morning around 11 or 12ish.

Today, Kyle did great and Jerry took him to Grandma's house while Gracie and I went to get our dog Wrigley. Kyle was introduced to Wrigley and was unsure of him but started to warm up. I would be unsure too of an 80 pound black dog! .

Tomorrow is a new day and we'll see what it brings.

Getting ready to board our flight in Seoul

The kids ~~fell sleep~~ passed out on the way home from the airport.

The famous DO NOT OPEN brown envelope!

I have this same picture from 3 years ago when we brought Gracie home except they've remodeled since.

Three years ago with Gracie

Here we come!

Grandpa's first look at Kyle

We came home to this surprise, thanks Karen!!!

Playing today, Kyle loves books just like mommy

What's a post without Princess Gracie?!

Getting some sunshine

Leaving Soul

2010-05-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

I had a whole long post carefully planned out but when it came time to type it, I am at a loss for words. We are leaving Seoul today and I feel the same way as when we left China. So grateful to this country to allow me the privilege of being called mommy again. Korea is beautiful and I don't know when we will be back again but I feel lucky that I was able to see the country of my child's birth. I hope that when Kyle looks at the pictures as he grows older, he is able to see how beautiful Korea truly is and love it just as much.

I love my children so much, more so than I ever thought could be possible and I have been waiting a very long time to say this. Gracie made us a family and Kyle completed it.

Seoul Sights and Stuff

2010-05-16T06:23:00.000-07:00

This is actually a combined post from yesterday and today. Things have been busy and last night I was exhausted, that I just didn't get the chance to post. After our busy day from Friday, we decided to just hang out and walk around the area by our hotel. We had met a very nice couple via our agency's message board who were getting their daughter the same day that we got Kyle and they invited us to spend the day with them. We went to a man made river that is in the middle of the city and walked around a bit. Afterwards, we decided to grab some lunch at a Chinese restaurant that we had found. I played it safe with chicken and rice which wasn't that bad. I know, I come all the way to Korea to eat Chinese food!!! Afterwards, we did a little bit of shopping on the way back to our hotel. Believe it or not, this was the first time that I had shopped the whole trip! I don't know if it's because I did tons of shopping in China but I didn't really see anything particular that caught my eye. We did end up getting Gracie a lantern for her room and Kyle a present for his 18th birthday as we had done the same for Gracie in China.

Today, I wanted to do something a little different. Seoul is different than China in that they are much more westernized. There are a lot of tall buildings here, just like in LA and I wanted to see older buildings. I did some research online and found The Korean Cultural Village. It's a village that has replicas of houses and things from long ago. Not one to shy away from going outside of our comfort zone, 40 minutes and $40 later (Jerry won't let me live that down), we arrived at the village which was in another province. It was really neat to walk around and see how they used to live in Korea. There was a beautiful river that ran through the village and they had pagoda type places where people could bring their lunch and eat. The village even had a small amusement area with rides which of course, Gracie loved.

On the Kyle front, he is doing awesome! He seems to really be bonding with both Jerry and I. Last night, he cried for about 5 minutes, I gave him his bottle and then he went down. He did cry out a little in his sleep but I patted his back and he quieted down. Tonight before bedtime, Gracie was playing with him and he was all giggles and having a blast. Jerry gave Kyle his bottle and put him down. He didn't fuss but wanted to play a little. He didn't cry at all and finally went to sleep. The poor guy does have some type of rash that has popped up on his legs, parts of his tummy and arms. We think it's a heat rash, possibly because it's been warm here and I am carrying him all around in the carrier. Hopefully it will go away quickly.

Tomorrow we are leaving so if you could keep us in your prayers for a safe journey home and an uneventful flight.

My two monkeys

Man-made river that was built to "beautify" Seoul

Gracie and her new friend J.

One of the sites we saw on our walk back to the hotel

Not sure what this was but it looked cool. We didn't see anything living, crawling or ready to sting you like we did on the streets in China.

Kyle has chub and rolls! It's so cute and I love it!

She isn't doing a chokehold here, just trying to keep him from moving while I take the picture.

A beautiful church on the way to the village

Love this photo! Didn't even know Jerry was taking it.

At the Folk Village in front of the beautiful river

They had these cool swings at the village that were super tall. You could actually stand on them and swing that way if you wanted to.

Gracie got the hang of the Korean way to take a picture. We asked why they put up their two fingers and were told it means victory.

Jerry's favorite place! When we went to NJ, he fell in love with their coffee and we don't have them in CA. Gracie would point out all the Dunkin Donuts when we walked or drove by them.

Lotte World!!!

2010-05-14T15:20:00.001-07:00

Yesterday which was Friday, we decided to take the kids to a place called Lotte World. When I was doing my research on Korea, I saw that they had a couple of amusement parks and I chose this one because it's kid friendly and according to reviews, Korea's answer to Disneyland. Well, since we are season pass holders to Disneyland, how could I pass up a trip to the world's largest indoor amusement park in Korea?!

We went to the front desk to ask for directions via the subway as they told us that a taxi would take a very long time due to traffic jams. Here in Korea, there is a ton and I mean a ton of traffic no matter what time the day and we didn't want to sit in a cab that long. We had experience with the subway the day before so I felt okay taking it. Korea's subway system is pretty easy to navigate, once you are able to figure out where the handicap elevators are as we had the stroller and which way the signs were pointing for the trains. It's super nice too because in Korea, they have signs in Korean and then English. We only got lost a couple of times, not on the subway but trying to find where the next train was to take. Also, one thing that Jerry and I noticed is the subways are super clean, unlike New York (sorry).

We made it to Lotte World and bought our tickets. The tickets were normally 35,0000 won or $35 US dollars but for some reason , the girl gave us a discount, only charging Jerry and I $20 per ticket and no charge for Gracie. We thought that was really nice of her. The inside of the park was pretty neat. The first ride that we hit was the carousel ride which we all went on. Throughout the few hours we spent there, Kyle was really observant and didn't cry. He seemed to like it which is great since we go to Disneyland a lot. Jerry and I felt like we were really immersed in the Korean culture as we only saw maybe 1 or 2 other caucasian people at the park.

After we left Lotte World and came back to the hotel, we decided to give the kids a bath to which Kyle was not that thrilled with and then order pizza from Pizza Hut. Gotta tell you, the pizza tastes exactly the same as at home. An interesting tidbit, the pizza came with sweet pickles on the side. For some reason, Koreans like to serve sweet pickles with their meals.

After dinner, we put Gracie and Kyle down for an early bedtime. Kyle fell asleep pretty easily but after about two hours or so, he woke up and started to grieve. I had Jerry make Kyle a bottle but he did not want to take it. I just kept holding him and patting his back until he said mama which someone told me (thanks Jamey) means food in Korean so I gave Kyle the bottle. He cried for about 15 more minutes and kept calling out for his Omma (foster mom) until he fell back to sleep. Kyle did wake up a few times in the night but I just patted him and he went back to sleep. As I am typing this at 7:45am, Kyle is still sleeping.

All in all, I would say yesterday was a success. Kyle's personality is coming out more and more and he truly is a happy, calm baby. He is easy going and loves to observe things. We got lots of smiles out of him yesterday which was awesome! Gracie loves her brother and has been doing very well. She gets very concerned when Kyle cries and wants to know what's wrong with him. When she gets tired at night, she does get a little jealous and doesn't want her brother to touch her things but that's okay as a lot has been thrown at her. It's going to take time and small baby steps but we will get there. When I woke up this morning at 4am and saw my little boy sleeping next to me and my little girl sleeping at the foot of the bed, as Gracie likes to say, my heart smiled.

PS~ Jerry and I noticed a lot of people staring at us yesterday. It wasn't that bad when we had just Gracie but now that we have 2 kids and I am carrying Kyle, I guess we stand out more. It didn't bother me as people are just curious and I am used to it from having been in China. People have been very positive with us and say what beautiful children we have and I agree. :)

I couldn't resist these shirts and Gracie was very proud of hers.

Yes, we have to take pictures of funny shop names. We did the same thing in China. This was actually a candy shop.

First look at Lotte World

Poor Jerry had to take a self portrait

I love this picture!

Entertaining her brother

Welcome to Disneyland, I mean Lotte World

One of the wonderful smiles we got yesterday

Korea's version of Snow White. Never mind the fact that she is blonde, a mannequin and the dwarfs looked more like elves. Jerry and I were cracking up over this scene.

Another picture I love. Despite the fact that they are from different countries, it's just a bunch of kids having a blast!

Rough Night

2010-05-13T16:27:00.001-07:00

Well, the grieving has begun. I had a feeling that it would happen at night time and it did. Kyle took a bottle and fell asleep while drinking it so I put him down. About 45 minutes later, he woke up and was pretty much inconsolable for about 2 hours, maybe a little less. Let me tell you, that boy has a set of lungs on him!!! All we could do was hold him and walk around or look out the window so he could see the street cars below. It broke our hearts to see him grieving so but I know that it is part of the process. Jerry finally got the brilliant idea (in his mind, not so much mine) to put down a comforter on the floor in the small bedroom and have Kyle and I lay on it for sleeping (thanks dear) while he slept in the other bed with Gracie in the other room.

Even after laying down, Kyle still continued to cry and I finally just had to let go and give it over to God. I prayed for Kyle, myself, Jerry, and Gracie and after about 2 minutes, Kyle put his head on my chest and would occasionally lift it to cry but couldn't muster the strength and finally fell asleep! I did the same, the best I could considering that I was freezing and laying on a hard floor, something I haven't done since having a slumber party but whatever I have to do for my boy, I will. :) Kyle slept restlessly for about 5 hours and then woke up crying. I FINALLY figured out that to comfort him, as he liked having me pat his bottom or back really fast as he would settle quickly when I did that. He was still restless until about 5am when the sun started to come up and then he fell into a deep sleep and I was able to climb okay more like crawl onto the bed and catch a couple of zzzzs.

Kyle is awake now and calm. Jerry, my awesome hubby is giving him a bottle. Jerry told me that Gracie woke up this morning and was sad that Kyle and I weren't in the room and wanted to know if we gave him back. She has such a sweet spirit and is so concerned about her brother.

Anyway, thank you all for the prayers and well wishes as they truly mean so much to me. Today we might try to hit Lotte World which is a huge amusement type indoor park.

Love to you all!!!

We Have Kyle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-05-12T23:33:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally made it to the day we have been waiting 2 years for, we have our new son!!!

We ended up getting to the offices early and saw a ton of babies there. I think they were all getting their well baby checks or being prepared for travel. Kyle's foster mother arrived early too and the next thing we knew, there was a knock on the door and in walked Kyle with his foster mom. It was so surreal seeing our son, right there before our eyes. I wasn't really sure what to do so I gave them both a hug. Gracie was super excited and ran right over to her brother and gave him a huge hug. She also gave Kyle the stuffed puppy that she had picked out for him. I then started the huge list of questions that I had for Kyle's FM. It was so nice because in China, we got Gracie handed to us and that was it!

Here are some things that we learned about Kyle. First off, and are you ready for this one, Kyle's foster mom said that Kyle is a very happy, mild and social baby!! Yay, exactly how Gracie is. As a matter of fact, the social worker said that she was completely amazed because most of the babies cry during the Q&A but Kyle didn't. Kyle's foster mom told DJ, our social worker that out of the 13 babies she has fostered, he is her favorite and she wanted to keep him!!!!!!! The foster families nickname for Kyle is smiley which I think is so darn cute!! We also found out that he loves kids and does not like spicy food, just like his mommy or sister or Jerry for that matter. He takes 2 naps a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. He goes to bed at 8pm wakes up at midnight, plays for a little bit then goes back to sleep. Okay, that probably won't be happening once we get home!

After the questions, we went downstairs and Kyle had his preflight physical and Kyle's foster mom gave us gifts One of the items she gave us is a huge butterfly album full of pictures for when Kyle gets older. If the butterfly album isn't a sign, then I don't know what is. She also gave us a traditional Han Bok for Kyle to wear on his 1st birthday. Her neighbor made it for him. We also got a special gift, the original clothes that Kyle was in when his birth mom turned him over to Holt.

It was finally time for us to say goodbye to Kyle's foster mom and she was having a super hard time. Throughout the whole meeting, we kept hugging her and at one point, she had to walk out with Kyle so she could have a few minutes alone with him. She followed us to the taxi to say her goodbyes. We promised that we would send photos of Kyle to her and her family. It was so heartbreaking to see how upset she was but she was really trying not to cry in front of Kyle. You could tell that Kyle was loved very much and well taken care of by his foster family. If you can say some prayers for Kyle's foster mom's heart to heal and some peace, that would be wonderful.

So there you have it, a very long posting. As I am typing this, my son is sleeping and Gracie is playing quietly in the other room. I feel so blessed and have tears of joy right now because I never thought in a million years I would have not only 1 child but 2. God is so good and I really feel that all of the things that we had to go through with our first referral, led us to Kyle who is the perfect fit for our family.

PS~ Kyle's foster mom said that he is perfect in every way, except for his hairline as he is a little bald! Ha, ha, poor Jerry!

Gracie is so excited to see her new brother

Here is the first time we saw Kyle in person

Kyle with the new puppy Gracie gave him

Smooshy hug!

His first smile we got from him, I love it!!

Napping after a very long day!

Seoul Sightseeing

2010-05-12T03:59:00.001-07:00

After getting up at 5am today, we had our first full day of the Seoul experience. Our travel agency had set up a tour for us in which college students volunteer to take adopted parents around Seoul and in exchange, the college students get to practice their English. The first place that we went to was called Gyeongbok Palace. It was really neat and reminded me a bit of China. It was pretty difficult to maneuver a stroller with all those steps but pretty much most of Korea is difficult to get around with a stroller. I think I saw maybe 3 people today with strollers as the parents usually carried their children around. We also had some interesting experiences with Gracie and the people here as one lady came right up to her and gave her a huge hug. Gracie was a little freaked out by it but the lady meant well!

After the palace, we were all pretty famished so our guide Mia as Gracie called her, took us to a yummy Korean restaurant. Now for those who know me pretty well would call me somewhat of a picky eater but I did pretty well and was able to eat a full lunch and they even had Pepsi to drink! Gracie loved the white rice, even though she won't touch the stuff when we are at home. Hmmm, guess I will have to travel to Korea more often so Gracie can eat the rice!

Once our tummies were full, we all decided that we wanted to go to the famous Seoul tower. This tower is in the middle of Korea and you can take an elevator up and on a clear day, see the whole city of Seoul. I had read on my agencies' message boards that a lot of couples go to the tower to get engaged and when they do so, they put a lock on the fence to signify their eternal love and then throw the key over the mountain. I had bought a lock at Target and wrote all of our names on the bottom of it. I brought one key here and the other is at home. When Kyle gets older, we will give him the key so he knows that a little piece of all of us will be in Korea.

Tomorrow we get Kyle at 10:30am Korea time so it will be 7:30pm in CA. I am pretty nervous as I don't know what to expect. I am also excited too. Please keep us in your prayers that we have a smooth transition.

Well, I'm off to eat my cheesecake that Jerry bought me at the Starbucks in the lobby of our hotel. One bummer thing about this trip, is I definitely won't be losing 10 pounds like I did in China. The food here is actually pretty darn good and I even had Italian food for dinner, garlic bread and all!!! :)

Guard at the palace. It took a lot to coax this smile out of Gracie as she was freaked out!

Typical Jerry, need I say more?!

With our guide

All the cute school kids had pink sweatsuits on, even the boys!

Kyle's lock

I let Gracie pick a spot for the lock and of course she picked the Christmas tree!

Gracie in front of the gazillions of locks

Seoul from the top of the tower

Gracie's newest friends

At the top of the tower, they showed which direction the cities were and how far. I thought it was pretty cool that we found China.

We're Here and First Night!

2010-05-11T04:06:00.001-07:00

We made it and I am exhausted. Actually, we all are! It's 8pm here so 4am CA time which means we have been up for a very long time. The flight was uneventful and I actually really enjoyed myself. It was kind of like a vacation in itself as there were tons of movies (I watched 3), games and other items and I got fed and didn't even have to do the dishes. Gracie was awesome on the plane as usual because she is a great flyer and she loved the kids channel as she watched Princess and the Frog 2 times and Snow White once! What was I thinking by bringing 2 dvd players?? The last hour and a half really dragged though and I was kind of jumpy because we had a bit of turbulence and I also think my Xanax had worn off by then. :)

When we arrived and got to the airport, Gracie wanted to know where her little brother was, lol. We had to explain to her that we have to wait a couple of days for him. We had no trouble finding our way through the airport and found the van driver right away. Our hotel, The Somerset is awesome!!! Holy cow, our room is bigger than our house! I especially can't wait to take a bath in the sunken tub.

Tomorrow we are going to do a tour so I better hit the hay. It's only 8pm here but that's okay as we are getting thrown right into the new time change.

Hugs to everyone and thank you SO much for all the prayers as I felt them all the way up in the air.

I highly recommend Korean Air

At the airport in Korea. I am so proud that I only packed 2 bags. They were overweight but the Korean Air employee waived the fees! Did I mention they rock?!

Our greeter

Checking in

Hotel room living room

Kitchen area

Kitchen with a refrigerator and washing machine

Gracie's separate bedroom. Yeah right, she is sleeping in the other room with us.

One of the 2 bathrooms with a shower only and bench to sit on

Our room

Hallway leading into the second bathroom off our room

Can't wait to hit that tub!

Princesses

2010-05-09T19:06:00.001-07:00

Last Monday, Karen had the great idea of taking the girls to Disneyland for their princess breakfast. We decided to go since Kyle will be home soon and it might be a while before we are able to do something like this again. I also wanted to spend some one on one time with Gracie before she has to share me with her brother and she loves princesses and Becky does too!

The breakfast was fine but the girls didn't care about that, they wanted to see princesses and boy did they! I'm so glad I got to take Gracie as I know she had a blast.

On another note, we are leaving tomorrow. Both of the suitcases are packed. I can't believe I only have 2 suitcases and was able to shove clothes for 4 people into 1 suitcase. My other suitcase has, you guessed it, food! I lost 10 pounds in China because I am a picky eater and decided that although it might be nice to lose the weight, I wanted to eat this time around. :) The best thing is, for the flight back, the suitcase will be empty so I have more room for shopping (shhh, don't tell Jerry)! Of course, I think we are going to end up with an overage fee as the suitcases weigh a ton, oh well!

The cutest princesses ever!

Gracie and Ariel

The prince!

I love the look of awe on Becky's face in this picture

Gracie's favorite princess

Gracie is now tall enough for the Jumping Jellyfish ride! She loved it!

Travel Call!!!

2010-05-06T21:55:00.000-07:00

We got our travel call Tuesday, yippee!!! I had called DC on Tuesday to see if Kyle's P3 and Visa Interview had been scheduled. These were the two items that we were waiting on. The lady at DC started to tell me that Kyle's interview was on a certain day but then quickly asked what Kyle's name was before she could give me any more information. Well, when I heard those first sweet words, I started to freak out and then the DC lady told me that Kyle's interview was that day, the 4th of May and I really started to freak because travel calls usually come that same day. I waited patiently for my call but then had to get into the shower because it was almost time to pick Gracie up from preschool.

I got out of the shower and casually, okay who are we kidding, bounced over to the phone and no message, what the heck! I then checked my caller ID and sure enough, I had a missed call from Holt! I didn't know what to do but quickly decided to call them back. Before the kind gentleman could get any words out, I quickly shouted is this my travel call to which he replied, yes, congratulations! Garrett told me that he tried to leave a message but the machine cut him off, figures!

So there you have it. We are leaving Monday for Korea and Kyle will be in our arms on Thursday. I am freaking out about the long flight as I HATE to fly but it's so worth it. I've also been shopping like mad for the last 2 days and haven't even started to pack. I still can't believe that in 1 week, we will be a family of 4!

I will try to blog our trip daily, just like in China so stay tuned. Also, I'd love it if you leave a comment while we are gone as those really meant a lot to me when we were in China.

3 Years Ago Today......

2010-05-02T21:38:00.000-07:00

We received the phone call that we were waiting 18 months for, congratulations, you have a daughter! My hands were shaking and I could barely think but all those months of doubts and fear were wiped away by one click of the mouse, when I saw my baby girl's precious face. I am so blessed to call Gracie my daughter and each day, she continues to amaze Jerry and I with her open spirit and heart. We love you so much Gracie and are proud to call you daughter. ♥

New Picture!

2010-04-28T15:13:00.000-07:00

I opened my email today to find a picture of Kyle with his foster mom. I had to block her face out with a butterfly, due to privacy reasons. Kyle is posing with the care package that I sent over a month ago. He is so cute and I love the rag on his head! :) Kyle's foster mom is very young looking and she dresses so hip. I have a lot of live up to, lol! We also got a Well Baby Check and the little bugger is doing so well. He has 4 teeth on top and bottom and also pulls himself up and walks holding furniture. I really hope we get our travel call soon as I would love to be have him for his first birthday and steps.

Down on the Farm

2010-04-25T19:15:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, Christy from our Lucky Mom's group, invited us to go to her sister-in-law and brother's farm. I was really excited because I knew Gracie would have a very fun time. On the way there, we got into a car accident on the freeway. I was rear ended by are you ready for this, a motorcycle!! Usually, it's the other way around! I was in complete shock when the whole thing happened as I looked in my rearview mirror to see a motorcycle on my tail and then bam, a loud bang. I stopped my car right there in the lane and got out to see the sight of this guy and his bike, lying right there in the fast lane. The guy was okay praise God and we were fine too. Gracie was sleeping at the time and she never sleeps that early, so we were being looked out for. A highway patrol happened to be coming by right at the time of the accident (wow, a cop when you need one!) and had us pull over at the next exit for a report. I was still in total shock, shaking and could barely remember the facts. I am actually disappointed with myself because I always thought that I would be one of those people that when you see a burning building, will run in and make sure that everyone is safe. Welp, I guess not!

When we finally got to the farm, it was really neat and exceeded expectations. We got our own private tour and got to eat from the organic garden, pet goats, and even milk a cow. Gracie and I got to taste fresh milk, right then and there. Not bad for being a city girl my whole life. It's so amazing that this farm is only 40 minutes from us, considering we are in SoCal, who would have thought! I think I could get used to being a country girl.

On the Kyle front, Jerry has been busy painting the nursery this weekend. I am hoping that we get our travel call soon. It's been almost a month since EP has been approved so if you are listening Korea, we are ready.

Right after the accident. The guy's windshield was stuck in my bumper. I happened to have my good camera on me since we were going to the farm.

Gracie tasting a yummy pea

Gracie got a kick out of the goat jumping right up on the trash can to be fed.

Wilbur the adorable pig that Gracie fed.

There were tons of cats running around and Mia and Gracie had so much fun chasing them!

The girls had a blast combing the blind pony.

Cute bum shot! ;)

L to R, Georgie, Gracie, and Mia.

2010-04-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

So l signed myself up for a photography class. Last week was our first class and the teacher gave us "homework" which involved taking pictures of things with texture. I don't know about you but I am not one of those naturally talented people that can look at something and see a picture in it. Gracie is mostly my subject but I have always been fascinated with picture taking and really admire those that are talented in that department. I tried my best with the first assignment but there were frustrations, mostly with the camera and me not knowing how to work it. I hope that by the time we get to Korea, I will have learned something, anything from the class so I will be able to take a semi-decent picture. I'm also signed up for a cake decorating class (my creativity juices have been dying to come out lately) and as soon as I decorate my first cake, I will post a picture.

Flower Basket

Patio Table

A pathetic looking apple from our tree. :)

Twigs on a bush

Spiderweb

Happy Easter!!!

2010-04-04T20:18:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter! I have lots of pictures from the weekend but am working on putting them into collages and will post them within the next couple of days. I chose this picture for Easter because this is last Easter we will be a family of 3. We got some good news Friday that Kyle's Emmigration Permit was approved (Praise God) as it took almost 9 weeks for approval (it normally takes 3-5). According to our agency, travel calls usually come about a month after EP approval so hopefully that phone will ring, ring in early May!

"Now let the heavens be joyful,
Let earth her song begin:
Let the round world keep triumph,
And all that is therein;
Invisible and visible,
Their notes let all things blend,
For Christ the Lord is risen
Our joy that hath no end."
-- John of Damascus

Easter Bunny

2010-03-31T14:42:00.001-07:00

Introducing.............

2010-03-28T23:06:00.001-07:00

Gracie's new brother Kyle! We received our referral back in early December but because of what happened with our first referral, I was very nervous to post anything about our new son. It was so difficult emotionally after having to withdraw from our first referral, that I would hold my breath and get very anxious everytime we got a new baby check from our agency in regards to Kyle. So far, Kyle has been very healthy and I feel very relieved. He is a very tall boy, in the 76% on the American height charts, which fits in perfectly with our family as Gracie is very tall too. Kyle also weighed around 19.5 pounds at 9 months old which was the last update we received.

Kyle's birthday is May 23rd and we hope to have him home in time for his first birthday. Unfortunately, there has been a hold up with the EPs (Emmigration Permits) and what should normally have taken between 3-5 weeks for approval now has us going on an 8 week wait for approval and counting. We have also decided to travel to Korea instead of escorting as was our original plan and we are very excited. Gracie I think is the most excited and keeps saying that her baby is in Korea and she wants to take a plane and get her little brother.

I was originally going to create two blogs, one for Kyle and one for Gracie but after much thought, I have decided to keep only this blog. Not sure if I am going to change the name or not yet though. :) Oh, I am wayyyy behind in blogging so get prepared to see tons of pictures within the next couple of weeks!

This is the most recent picture we received on Kyle and it was taken in February. The picture in my side bar was his original referral picture.

CNY

2010-02-26T14:56:00.000-08:00

This year we celebrated Chinese New Year on a different day then the actual event. With 7 of us trying to coordinate our schedules, it ended up working out that we celebrated a week later which worked out better since CNY ended up falling on Valentine's Day this year. Since we live in a highly populated Asian area, the most outside of Vietnam to be exact, Gracie and I took a trip to the Asian Garden Mall to get our token gifts for all the kids and to find Gracie a new dress. It was really crowded when we went as CNY was just a week before and it seemed like everyone had taken the day off of work or lack of. Gracie picked out a beautiful traditional Vietnamese outfit which is fine by me as she already has a couple of Chinese dresses and the best part is it was relatively cheap, at least cheaper than flying all the way to China.

My friend Karen picked out a nice Chinese restaurant and learning from prior year's mistakes, we got a private room WITH doors that closed so the kids could be locked away I mean not run away. Last year, Jerry was very appalled at the fact that the kids were playing right in front of the bathroom doors where the restaurant patrons were walking in and out of the bathroom and combine that with the fact that I don't think the restaurant would want us back anyway after having 5 screaming kids running around, this new restaurant was a great choice. :)

PS~ The loud drums at the end of the night really weren't my fault. Gracie picked out the drums as presents for her friends and I did wait until after dinner to give them to the kids.

My beautiful girl

Ring around the Rosy

This picture is a miracle in itself that they sat still at all. The kids are color coordinated by row too which of course we planned that way. ;0

The quiet before the storm.

Beautiful Katie! It's hard to believe that she has only been home a month from China.

WOW, who are those beautiful women you ask? Why that would be the Lucky Mommys. Usually we are hiding behind the camera, not in front of it.

The dads aren't half bad either!

Jerry my husband the comic, entertained the kids by making the balloon fart. They just thought it was the funniest thing and if his current job situation doesn't work out, he is available for weekend parties.

Gracie's Got Rhythm

2010-02-12T16:43:00.001-08:00

Gracie loves to sing and talk. It seems like she is either talking, singing or doing both! Everywhere we go, she has to talk to everyone and loves asking them their name, or what are they doing. People seem to love talking to her although I wouldn't mind a little peace and quiet every once in a while and they just get a kick out of it! She once told the bagger at the grocery store to move faster! When we went to her 3 year check-up in November, the pediatrician said that Gracie's verbal skills were amazing for her age and I hear that quite frequently from a lot of people. They actually think Gracie is older than she is because of how well she speaks.

When Gracie was little, Jerry taught her how to play air instruments in the car while songs were playing on the radio. Jerry would strum the guitar, while Gracie played the piano or some other imaginary instrument. It was quite amazing because Gracie would hear an instrument on the radio such as a flute, tell me what instrument it was and pretend to play it. As she started to learn the words to her favorite songs, she would play her drum and play the beat to the song while singing. I finally unlazed myself and caught her singing and drumming out the beat to some songs she loves to sing. She definitely did not get this talent from me as I tried out for choir in 5th grade and didn't make it so my mom had to go to the school and beg for them to let me in. :)

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Our Friends Are Going to China!!

2010-01-18T15:10:00.000-08:00

My good friend Karen from my Lucky Mom's group and her daughter Becky, Gracie's BFF are leaving for China tonight to get Katie, Karen's daughter and Becky's new sister! I am so excited and can't wait to meet Katie. Jerry and I were reminiscing this afternoon with Gracie and watched her coming home video again. Gracie asked if she could go to China and I told her that when she gets older, we would go.

If you could please keep our friends in your prayers that they have a safe flight, journey, transition, and homecoming. Here is the link to Karen's blog if you are interested in following the journey to Katie, Casa de Alegria.

We had a mini-shower for Katie but my pictures turned out all blurry. Maybe if you look at them cross eyed, they will look okay. :( Hubby just told me that I had the camera on manual instead of automatic, oops.

Karen and Becky, sorry for the blur.

Those mall trains can be wild and crazy!

Fancy shoes

Uh oh, I think we're in trouble!

Christmas Day

2010-01-10T20:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, I realize that it's already January 10th and I am only now posting Christmas photos but up until recently, I haven't felt like doing much. I've been stuck in some sort of funk which is now only beginning to lift. I'm not sure what was going on, but I suspect that the whole Brennan situation really left me down as we should have had him home for Christmas. Between that and the fact that I got sick again, didn't help much. I ended up with a sinus infection and felt horrible on both Christmas Eve and day. It was so bad that I had to stay at home on Christmas Eve,stuck on the couch, not even being able to enjoy any chocolate because I couldn't taste anything, while Jerry and Gracie went to their cousin's house.

New Year's Eve was a little better as we went to Granny Joy's house and celebrated with close friends by eating good food and playing a fun game called Apples to Apples. I've never been much of a New Year's person and even getting out of the house was an accomplishment. :) I decided this year that instead of creating resolutions which I never end up keeping, I am going to have goals. Most of my goals are house oriented, such as getting pictures put into those pesky frames and redoing the small bathroom. I also have some spiritual goals too. I just attended a new study with my sister-in-law and the man who runs it is awesome! He suggested that we pick one item that we are really struggling with spiritually and work on that one thing. Dr. Bill said it could take a year or more to really work on our item. I am truly hoping that I will be able to stick with it and complete my spiritual goal.

Well, if you've read this far and I haven't completely depressed you, kudos. Otherwise, here are the pictures that you really came here for. :)

I thought this was a funny picture because the way Wrigley's tongue is sticking out, it looks like he ate Santa's cookies!

Gracie got Princess undies in her stocking and she actually loved them!

On her new princess bike from Santa

Love the effort she is putting into opening this present

Must have been worth that effort because of the surprise look on her face

Love this shot at Grandpa's house

Helping Uncle Frank with his gift. That was her favorite thing to do this year, help everyone with their presents.

Oops, a little too much princess make up

The one present she really wanted, a magic princess mirror that is octagon shaped. Yes, That is really how Gracie described the mirror. :)

Christmas Cookies

2009-12-22T21:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we got together with our mommy group. Karen Y. was very gracious and opened her house to us. This was the first time in a while that the original moms and kids from our Lucky Mom group were able to get together. All of us have busy crazy schedules, so it's been difficult to find time but when we get together, it is a blast! The kids decorated cookies to bring to the retirement home and Karen made the moms and the kids a yummy lunch. I really enjoy my group of mommys and Gracie loves her group of friends. I feel so blessed to have them in my life.

The kids were trying to open the ornament gifts that were for the moms!

Paloma was so good with the kids and played with them while we were getting the cookies ready.

Gracie, Ryan and Becky anxious to decorate the cookies

Becky got overzealous with the sprinkles! I love it! :)

L to R~ Gracie, Ryan, Paloma, Becky, and Kailee

Not sure what was going on here, but it sure was funny!

The finished product!

Patiently waiting to open their gifts

I love this photo of Kailee and Gracie reading together

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Pictures

2009-12-14T21:47:00.001-08:00

I took Gracie to Target last week for her Christmas pictures. She loves getting her picture taken by the professionals. This is only her second time going to a "real" studio instead of me taking her picture for the millionth time and she did really well! The photographer loved her and said I should put her into modeling, ha ha! I'm sure they tell everyone that! :) The quality isn't the best as these pictures are scanned ones because I forgot to buy a disk but Target did a really good job, much better than I expected. Gracie is such a joyful child and is always happy and smiling. She has such a beautiful soul, not only inside but out too.

Oh, if you are wondering whose those Santa hands belong to, why me of course! They put me in this contraption where it's just the Santa sleeves with the gloves and they wrap around your neck. It felt a little weird but look very real in the picture. ;)

Say Thanks!

2009-12-13T15:03:00.001-08:00

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