My Heart's Giving Birth!

Xin Nian Kuai Le!

2012-01-28T23:29:00.000-05:00

Happy Chinese New Year!

Tonight, we finished our celebrations of the New Year with a great dinner with our China Angels and dance performances by our girls.

BEFORE we started eating, we took advantage of the cute set up for photos...

After dinner, it was time to change into our dance costume...

Then, we lined up for the dragon dance! The kids line up by province. Emma was the only one from her province tonight.

OUr friend Dave was the ring leader tonight...what a hoot!

Emma was a bit timid parading around the room...

Then, when she saw Dave in his "get-up" and the dragon, she was terrified - screaming bloody murder. The rest of the parade was spent like this...

At the end of the parade, the kids lined up by bubble wrap and they counted down to the new year, then all the kids jumped on the wrap and it sounded like fireworks!

Then kids had a blast with that.

Well, not mine of course, but the rest of them did! ;)

Two daughters of my dear friends, Bonnie and Bill, sang a precious song together. It was a very good thing I was backstage for this or I would have been a sobbing mess. Sweet girls!

Now it was time for Emma's group...The Dancing Pandas. They are all so precious - ranging from 20 months to 5 years. We have practiced nearly every Saturday since October. During the practices, Emma would eventually warm up and do the motions. Not so much tonight...

Doesn't she look happy?

Once the chopsticks were given out, she warmed up a bit...

...but not much...

Yes, mine is the one standing when the others are sitting...

...and sitting when the others are standing!

A final picture with Nana, myself, Emma, and my dear friend Ada.

Ada is from Hubei province in China.

She and another lady, Dora, accepted the chance to come to America and teach Chinese.

Ada teaches at my school. Dora teaches at the high school.

Ada has such a sweet and tender heart - the kids at our school love her.

She loves Emma and Emma is pretty smitten with her as well!

Ada and Dora joined us tonight to celebrate the new year. Ada was sweet enough to take my camera and be the photographer. That let me keep up with Emma and have one less thing to keep up with for the night!

It was a fabulous night and a great way to complete our week of celebrations!

A Yummy Dinner with our China Angel Friends

2012-01-28T22:14:00.000-05:00

The celebration of Chinese New Year lasts for days...we have made the most of celebrating this week! On Tuesday, we met several of our China Angle friends. We have a great support group in our area. It's so much fun to get our girls together. (and the adults enjoy it too!) This is just a tiny fraction of our group...still it's not at all easy to get that many girls to look and smile at the same time!

A whole new use for chop sticks! Curling hair...

Emma with her sweet friend, Halle Grace.

She really took Emma under her wing at all of our dance practices for our big Chinese New Year celebration. Such a sweet girl!

Another's attempts at a group shot...

Happy Chinese New Year!

Celebrating Chinese New Year at School!

2012-01-28T22:00:00.000-05:00

Chinese New Year was January 23. I wanted Emma to be able to share some of the traditions with her friends at school.

She wore one of her Chinese outfits...

Emma and her dear teacher, Miss "Bef" (Beth)

I made red envelopes and included a few coins for each child...

I found the clip art online, and sent it to a dear friend of mine from China to make sure it said,

"Happy New Year!" and not something else!

I collected several books and a few other things for her to share. The kids all had a blast!

Emma enjoyed sharing a bit of her heritage with them!

Wish I had been a fly on the wall to see her sharing with her friends. I have a few pictures her teacher printed, but couldn't get them on here...

Great memories for Emma!

Has it really been 2 years?

2012-01-19T23:26:00.001-05:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

It's Christmas! It's Christmas!

2011-12-25T20:11:00.000-05:00

Emma actually slept until 9:00. I recognize that this may be one of my last years of such luxury for some time. She was certainly ready for "wake-up time" today! We headed down the steps...everyone was waiting on us. When she saw it, she grinned so big and looked up at me as if to say, "Look Momma! Santa came!"

She opened her stocking goodies first...

...a bath bomb from lush! (think she would notice if I took that little gift?)

Then, she found her grilled cheese...a minnie mouse grilled cheese no less!

And her kitty...

Santa also brought a karaoke machine. She thinks she is the stuff with that microphone.

I wonder if those microphones might be "misplaced" at times...stategically of course!

This skipper was a thorn in my side...at first it wouldn't work and I was so upset.

Five grown ups later, we got it working. Emma played with one like this for HOURS with Maisey and Marley this summer. So far she's not been real "into" this gift. She needs a jumping friend...Papa helped a little...

And back to the microphone...

whew! Worked up an appetite...so another bite of grilled cheese...

I was thrilled at how excited she got over every little thing! It was precious!

Uncle Tom and Aunt Lara got her the cutest panda blanket wrap...

And of course some make up...can't even count how many times she's applied her lip gloss and eye shadow today! There is glitter EVERYWHERE in this house!

Nana needed make up too!

She's offered to make up Papa and Uncle Tom, too...

so far, they've succeeded in putting her off...

Uncle Tom likes the panda blanket!

Emma and Uncle Tom share an affinity for pez and orange tic tacs...

surprisingly, emma was eager to share her wealth...the spirit of the season I suppose...

We've had a blessed day...hope you have too!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-25T19:29:00.000-05:00

Before leaving for church, Emma told the story in her own words...

"Why baby Jesus not have clothes on?"

The obligatory pictures by the tree. There are about a gagillion more...

After church, we spread our "Magic Reindeer Food" around the front and back yard.

After just a few minutes - and just a little food spread - she said, "That enough...I cold!"

We set out our milk and cookies for Santa...

and headed up for bed...aniticpating the fun to come!

Sneaky little Ralphie!

2011-12-25T19:10:00.002-05:00

See you next Christmas, Ralphie Ace!

Ralphie's still at it!

2011-12-23T13:08:00.000-05:00

So we had to leave Ralphie the address to Tom and Lara's so he could find us here! He's still up to his shenanigins...although I've only caught 2 of them on the camera!

I guess he got hungry during the night and made some s'mores.

And now...just after breakfast, I am making one of those for Emma...She's never had one! How I have failed as a parent!

We opted to make ours in the microwave...fun to watch the marshmallows get all huge and fluffy.

This wins two awards...

Yummiest snack

and

messiest snack!

Thanks for the idea, Ralphie!

Fun with my girl

2011-12-23T12:44:00.000-05:00

The weather here has been perfect! Cool, but beautiful! There is a park just across the street from Tom and Lara's. This is the view of Monterey Bay...from their front door. Pretty amazing view!

Emma decided she wanted to roll up her pants...guess she was warmer than I was!

There are deer all over the base! Emma calls them reindeer...guess it's the season!

We sat in this spot and watched them (about 8 of them) for at least 30 minutes. Every once in a while they would eye us as if to say,"do you HAVE to stare at us? Take a picture...it will last longer."

Emma was mesmerized!

more beautiful views...

There were also Canadian Geese everywhere.

Right before we walked back up the big hill to Tom and Lara's, we saw this sailboat in the bay.

Saying good bye to the geese...

Tom and Lara's cute house...

A Most Beautiful Day

2011-12-23T01:00:00.000-05:00

We took a drive down to Pebble Beach. I couldn't wait to say I had seen the Pacific Ocean! It was so blue...so gorgeous...and so cold!

Tom and Dad spent a few minutes checking out the famous Pebble Beach Golf course. Dad doesn't know, but his Christmas surprise is that he and Tom are playing that course on Monday. I can say that on here because I know for a fact that my dad will not be checking the internet...he stays away from computers! I can't wait to hear his reaction on Christmas day!

The we drove the famous 17 Mile and along Big Sur. I couldn't believe the beauty! THere were many places along the way to pull off and take pictures. No camera could capture what it was like to be there!

We had to stop here...this rock is called, "China Rock."

Trying to get some sweet shots of my girl. She's a moving target though! Tough to get that pic!

So much of what we saw made me think I was in a Jane Austin movie.

And THIS was the craziest thing...

cows grazing right beside the ocean. There wasn't a pull off spot, but I made Lara slopw down so I could try to get a picture. If you know Lara, though, you know there is really no slowing her down! So this was my best attempt!

This bridge is apparently kind of famous and is used in lots of commercials. I don't know that I had ever seen it, but is was an awfully pretty place to stop!

We ended the day with lunch at this coolest restaurant. The views were spectacular! I was a wimp though and wanted to eat inside - the walls were windows though so you could still see the beauty...but the wind didn't cut through you!

There was an old telephone booth there...had to play!

What a day full of memories! I am so glad we were able to come visit...and that the weather has been so perfect!

The Monterey Aquarium

2011-12-22T21:22:00.000-05:00

Because I can't get any of my pictueres from the actual trip to load, we are skipping straight to the fun stuff. We will show you how we got here later!

Aunt Lara took us to the Monterey Aquarium on Cannery Row.

Feeling sea otter fur...

Finally brave enough to explore the touch pools...

pretending to be a baby penguin just hatched from it's egg...

View down the famous Cannery Row.

Random silliness

2011-12-12T23:30:00.000-05:00

This is when you know your girl is tired after a long day...

she made an extra cushy bed...

and chose a rag to be her blanket!

First time I have seen her do this...thought I was going to wet my pants!

Introducing my girl to the finer things in life...bugles and squirt cheese!

She really didn't like it...but she sure did want to be able to squirt it everywhere.

That makes me think...

wonder if Ralphie would like squirt cheese...

maybe he will write her a note in squirt cheese...

hmmmm...

My sweet, silly girl

2011-12-12T23:23:00.000-05:00

Our China Angel support group always has a fantastic Chinese New Year celebration. This year, our angels will be performing. What a treat! So for weeks and weeks, we have been getting up early on Saturday mornings - UGH - and going to dance. Emma was pretty clingy at first, but she is slowly coming around and participating better in class. This week, they practiced on "the stage." This isn't where we are having it, but the kids still thought it was pretty cool! I love the look of concentration on Emma's face!

...and the look of, "I'm bored...when's the next song starting."

and the fave...the sweet, "Momma, do you see me?" face!

Later, the little angels, sat together to watch the bigger girls practice their dance. She was mesmerized!

I can't wait to see her performance! What a great way to celebrate our second CNY!

A visit with Santa

2011-12-12T23:11:00.000-05:00

So this was last years Santa picture...

This year, she was so excited, she could barely contain herself...that would be wh ever picture I have is BLURRY!

I think I like this goofball, squinty-eyed picture even more than the official Santa pic!

She was so taken with Santa - I think she would have sat on his lap all night long!

She just kept hugging him and looking at him...it really was priceless!

She asked (AGAIN) for a kitty cat -

to which I have repeatedly said,

"Santa doesn't deal in live animals!"

and...get this...she also asked for...

a grilled cheese.

Not.even.kidding!

More (mis)adventures of Ralphie Ace

2011-12-12T22:55:00.000-05:00

Opposites

2011-11-25T12:08:00.000-05:00

This is a photo of one who is NOT amused with the funny antlers...

And this is the opposite...

Such a ham! Loving the thrill of putting up the decorations!

My girly girl

2011-11-25T12:04:00.000-05:00

Emma loves any type of make up or nail polish...thankfully, she loves wearing bows and dresses. SHe is a girly girl for sure. Yesterday, after Thanksgiving dinner, she took it upon herself to paint as many nails as she could...well...maybe it was more painting FINGERS!

Just a fraction of the nails painted by Emma!

So excited!

2011-11-25T11:50:00.000-05:00

We are counting down the days until we head to California to visit Uncle Tom and Aunt Lara! Emma asks nearly every day, "Is it today that we go on the airplane?"

I don't know that she will be as quiet and calm on this plane ride as she was on our trip home from China. I wonder what her reaction will be on THIS ride?!?!

A photo post...

2011-11-25T11:44:00.000-05:00

I have so many pictures that are fun...but not quite a whole post...so here is a random collection of pictures...the lazy way to catch up!

Some people have milk mustaches...not my girl! She has a RANCH mustache!

Taking her Elmo backpack for show and tell at school.

Nothing better than an afternoon playing games!

Think I need a dentist!

Our China Angel gals are preparing some dances for Chinese New Year this year. Emma enjoys it...although it takes her almost the whole class to warm up and begin dancing. Hopefully she will dance at the actual celebration!

Emma loves all things girly. My friend Syd let her put on her own makeup one night. SHe did quite well...however, she was not too keen on having her picture taken!

She looks like Eddie Munster in this one!

Ok...so the thumb. We are working on that one.

I told her the other day that she could suck her thumb in her bed or her car seat, but not at other times.

She thought for a minute and asked. "What's the rule again?"

I told her and she thought again and then quipped,

"But can I suck my toe now though?"

I guess I should just let her suck her thumb!

Such a clever girl!

My friend, Elizabeth, surprised me at school with a package of pumpkin spice cakes and the cute turkey suckers. Emma though they were so fun!

She was too distracted by her video for a photo shoot though!

Emma all dressed up and having fun at school!

"Sleeping Booty" napping at school!

Whew! I need a nap now!

Our new friend

2011-11-25T11:11:00.000-05:00

Last night, Emma and I read the story The Elf on the Shelf. We talked about what we would name our elf when he showed up. I listed some names and Emma chose "Ralphie." (an ode of course to one of my favorite Christmas flicks!) I told her that she could tell Ralphie what she wanted for Christmas and he would tell Santa for her. A kitty has been top on her list...as well as a grilled cheese sandwich. Not.Even.Kidding. The girl is a nut! I told her that Santa doesn't deal in live animals, but that Uncle Tom and Aunt Lara have a kitty named Ace that she will be able to play with while we are visiting them at CHristmas. She thought the name Ace was such a hoot. So, our elf is named Ralphie Ace.

I told her that Ralphie Ace would show up in the morning and she would have to find him. At first, she was a little leary about an elf showing up in our house. "Will he bite me?" "Will he be mean to me?" I had to set her mind at ease, that Ralphie Ace was very nice and was going to be here to help us and have fun.

This morning as we came down the stairs, I reminded her that we would have to be on the lookout for Ralphie Ace. I opened the pantry to get what we needed for breakfast and low and behold THERE HE WAS! He was sitting in our pantry eating Emma's left over candy from Halloween! He had candy wrappers everywhere and had a half eaten candy bar in his arms! Emma thought this was hysterical and immediately wanted her chocolate back. I had to remind her that we can't touch Ralphie or his magic will rub off.

After breakfast, we were in the living room and I heard Max on the table which he KNOWS he is not supposed to do.

I shewed him down and dramatically told Ralphie Ace what Max was doing so he could report it back to Santa. Emma thought that was totally hysterical and has been telling Ralphie so many things...what Max does that's bad...what she does that's good...I am cracking up watching her standing at the pantry door talking to Ralphie. What fun memories!

Wonder what Ralphie Ace will get in to next? Stay tuned! Let the holiday fun begin!

2011-11-25T00:32:00.000-05:00

A fun gift from Uncle Tom and Aunt Lara!

The other night, Emma and I were walking the trash can up to the street. It had been raining ALL week and there were some pretty huge puddles. It was a little cool to be playing in the water...but we both had on our boots...the puddles were so perfect...we couldn't resist. We jumped in every puddle on our way back to the house. I wish I could bottle Emma's giggles.

Thanks Uncle Tom and Aunt Lara for the fun gifts! I see more puddle jumping in our future!

THE lights!

2011-11-25T00:03:00.000-05:00

Bristol Motor Speedway does a tremendous light display every year to benefit Speedway Children's Charities. Emma, Papa, and I went to see the lights last night. Based on her excitement, we will be visiting more this season. In the center of the speedway, there are carnival rides and Santa...so much fun! Emma loved every minute. We did not have to wait in lines last night and it still took us about an hour just to drive through...so many light displays!

Emma was mesmerized!

Even my Alma Mater has a display!

I'm telling you...she LOVED the lights!

Let the Christmas season begin!

My Alma Mater

2011-11-24T23:42:00.000-05:00

I was so blessed this year to be able to host my friend Jen and her family during our college homecoming. It was a bit insane to add 2 more adults and 3 energetic boys to the household! It was fabulous! Emma was smitten with all of the boys, but especially Simon who is just a couple of weeks older than her. She kept calling him "her favorite boy." Priceless!

On Saturday, we all went to campus for a parade and fun inflatables. It was a GORGEOUS day...can you believe how beautiful this one it with our chapel in the background?

The kids were ready for the parade! They knew there was candy to be thrown so they wanted a front row seat!

I think Emma wants Ezra to be her boyfriend!

My Milligan cheerleader in action! She was WAY excited about these cool pom-poms!

After all the campus fun had been had, we headed home. I was hoping to keep her awake on the 40 minute drive so she would nap once we got home. I thought a drink and apples would do the trick...

Not so much!

No kidding...she slept the ENTIRE way home just like this. Such a hoot!

Halloween fun!

2011-11-24T23:26:00.000-05:00

Ever heard of Miss Pattycake? She is Emma's hero! Miss Pattycake has been our best friend and is the only way we made it through a very LONG drive to and from Pennsylvania and an even longer trip this summer to Missouri and Indiana. Seriously...she watched the video on "repeat play" almost the whole time we were in the car! She LOVES her some Miss Pattycake. We got to see her in concert in September and Emma actually got to sit on her lap. (that's one of those posts I just realized I haven't made...) So when they had the dress for sale just like Miss Pattycake, I knew we had to have it...and with Halloween coming up, it seemed perfect. Emma was a doll! We had such a fun night trick-or-treating.

We stopped by Nana and Papa's house...

I must have taken a blue million pictures...but these are the cutest! She calls these, well any Mary Jane shoes, her Miss Pattycake shoes! See her pointing her toe?

Papa was working, so we had to stop by there to see him. He even had prepared a little treat bag for her...with the help of Nana!

She and Papa made silly faces and giggled themselves silly!

Such a fun time...and there's still (a month later) so much candy left!

I have become THAT blogger

2011-11-24T23:00:00.000-05:00

When I was in the process of adopting, I found such comfort in reading blogs of other families in the process. I would read them so much that I would feel so connected to them...like I was part of their family...their dearest friend...even though we'd never met. I would feel such excitement as their travel day approached. I would cry watching videos of their "Gotcha Day" and following their travels. But then, when they returned to the states, the blogging would slow and suddenly, this family I'd grown so close to, was just "not around" as much. I was always so frustrated that they would stop blogging just when there was so much to share!

Now, I have become THAT blogger. I have about a million posts in my head (and on my camera) but time and energy just seem to fail me. Now if I could bottle some of Emma's energy, there would be blogging 24/7! That girl makes the energizer bunny look tame!

So here I am...Thanksgiving break is here and I ahve some time to relax and I hope to catch up just a bit...Especially with the holidays and all the fun that has begun...so here goes...

Harvest Moon Fun

2011-09-18T01:00:00.000-04:00

tonight we met with our China Angels support group for our Harvest Moon Celebration. We met at a local corn maze. First, we went on a hayless hay ride. Emma thought this was the bee's knees! She kept saying, "This so much fun!"

Then we had a balloon release to honor all of our angels...

Emma chose a purple balloon. Lots of balloons found their way to the sky before the magic word. Emma held on to hers...surprisingly.

"are you watching me, Momma?"

She was mesmerized watching the balloons float through the air...it was precious!

There was a super fun horse swing!

The giggles were infectious!

There were sweet goats...

And great photo opportunities!

She was quite the ham tonight!

We bought a pumpkin to decorate..and a glow in the dark necklace cause they are super cool!

She really got in to decorating her pumpkin. The preschool teacher in me was super proud of the way she used the glue and put the lids on the markers!

She stayed very busy...

even after all the other kids had gone...she remained...still decorating her pumpkin...

she was super proud of the finished product...and I was so proud of my sweet girl!

What a great Harvest Moon celebration!

Roots and Rhythm

2011-09-18T00:29:00.000-04:00

Emma and I met some friends downtown for a fun night of music. It was quite chilly so we had to bundle up. Emma didn't mind the cold...she had kettle corn!

Somehow this is the only picture I took, but it was too cute not to share!

Somedays it's a toss up...

2011-09-18T00:24:00.000-04:00

Food or sleep?

I guess that's how Emma keeps her girlish figure!

Doing our best to not labor on Labor Day!

2011-09-18T00:21:00.000-04:00

So...How many people does it take to grill hamburgers and hotdogs?

On Labor Day, we got together for a cookout. It was cold and rainy...but we still had a great time! How can you not have fun with that many hamburgers and hotdogs?? Here are my uncles - my dad's brothers - doing all the cooking!

It was unseasonably cool...and very rainy.

Emma couldn't wait to get her hotdog!

We look just a like, don't we?!?! ;)

I told you it was cold...Emma ended up stealing Nana's jacket. This is her "cheese" face. Makes her look totally miserable!

The leaves are already starting to change...

The puddles were calling to Emma...

JUMP IN ME!!!! JUMP IN ME!!!

Oh Well! Even if you won't let me jump in the water, I hope everyone had a Happy Labor Day!

Going to the Country with Papa

2011-09-05T01:27:00.000-04:00

My Dad got a new toy this week. He grew up on a farm and has redone his family's barn and enjoys going out to the country and piddling. He got a new tractor this week and I am not sure who was more excited to see it...him or emma! Emma even got to help him drive it!

She really was happy here....she kept screaming, "CHEESE!" for me to take the picture.

then, she and Papa walked through the field to see the horses. Emma was just as excited about that as seeing the horses as the tractor.

What a fun visit to the country!

Crazy Cousins

2011-09-05T01:10:00.000-04:00

We met Garron at a local inflatable fun place for some cousin fun! It was hard to get good pics of targets moving that quickly...

Love that infectious smile!

Amy was brave enough to climb the tall slides with them. They had so much fun together!

Happy Birthday, Amy!

2011-09-05T01:03:00.000-04:00

Amy loves birthdays! She looks forward to hers all year long! We had a cookout for her special day...

Emma and papa had a few laughs while the hot dogs cooked...

Playing in the leaves...she likes the way they crunch!

We laughed that AMy actually let Emma help her open presents! Emma enjoyed that part very much!

They both practiced their "surprise" faces when they opened the gifts!

Happy birthday Amy!

New Friends

2011-09-05T00:57:00.000-04:00

Our school system was awarded a special grant enabling us to have 2 teachers from China come to teach Chinese to our students. Ada and Dara are becoming dear friends. They came over for dinner a few weeks ago.

At first, Emma was very reserved and seemed a little confused. She has not spent any time with any CHinese adults really. I can only imagine that it was a trigger for some memories of China and she just needed some time to process. Once she warmed up...we had a blast together

Emma and Ada being silly and playing dress up!

Dara joins the fun...

And still more dress up...

here's to many more visits!

One of the lasts....and one of the firsts...

2011-09-05T00:46:00.000-04:00

There's a great tear-jerker-mom book called Let Me Hold You L0nger by Karen K1ngsbury. It talks about how parents so easliy recognize the firsts...first step, first tooth, first big kid bike...but sometimes, we fail to notice the "lasts" before they pass us by. And when we do notice them, we long to hold on to our babies for just a little longer. I had one of those moments this summer. I realized as I put Emma to bed, that it was the last time I would be putting her to bed in her crib. We were going to put up her big girl bed. While I was super excited for this change, it also broke my "momma's heart." She's growing way too fast...

Here she is...all smiles in her crib...

My friend's Matt and Syd came over for dinner and Matt was kind enough to be the crib/big girl bed construction guy! If you remember, he put the crib together back in 2008. LIttle did I know when we was putting the crib together that Emma was laying in a crib a world away...so many memories...

I'm SO big, momma!

Do you need my help, Matt?

I love you Matt! Thanks for putting together my big girl bed!

Emma even got to help. There were no hammers involved this time and all fingers remained in tact the whole time!

Syd - just like the night of the crib assembly - snuggled in the cozy chair.

The mattress hadn't been delivered yet, so we joked tried this for fun!

But the next morning...

Papa Tom and Uncle Charlie carried in the mattress.

Papa had the honor of flying her into bed for the first time...

Such a big girl!

Oh baby...let me hold you longer...please don't grow up so fast...

A million miles...

2011-09-05T00:21:00.001-04:00

This Summer, Em and I went on a road trip. First, we headed to Missouri to visit my best friend Kristi and her family. It was a LOOOOONNNNNGGGGG ride. Emma was such a trooper! We made a deal...she could watch videos the WHOLE way there as long as she used headphones! ;) She is a super traveler!

After the first long day, we spent a night at a hotel with a pool and got plenty of wiggles out and ready for the second day. We were both so excited to get to their house!

We spent the week doing girly things like painting our nails...

And poor Mosely was so outnumbered being the only boy...so he chose to stay away from that girly action..

Wondering the whole time when Daddy would be home to rescue him!

We did toes too!

I couldn't be left with my nails undone, so Maisey and Marley did mine...glittery goodness! There were stars on them...but they didn't show in the picture...

The girls played so well together...it was fun to watch them.

It was hot as blue blazes! We finally had to cool off in the sprinkler one evening. We had to wait til evening cause you couldn't breathe during the day!

After a fun week in Missouri, we loaded back in the car and drove another 500 miles or so to Indiana to visit where I used to live right after college. We stayed with my friend Tina and her family. I hadn't been back to Indiana in several years so it was great to catch up.

We spent one day at the Children's Museum. They had an exhibit about the Terra Cotta Warriors - We saw the REAL thing in China. Such a fun treat!

We rode the most fantastic merry go round...although, Emma refuses to ride on a horse...so we rode on a bench!

Mark and his girlfriend were brave enough to ride a horse!

Emma had such a fun time at the museum! She "worked" at the ice cream shop. She set out ice cream for everyone...

But then decided that maybe she needed just a little more for herself...

Yeah, we are still working on the sharing thing! (What an ice cream hoarder!)

We really had a blast at the museum!

On another day, my suitemate from college, Jen, and her boys drive over to visit - we enjoyed a yummy lunch and a great visit together!

Sadly, our trip had come to an end and it was time to head back home to Tennessee. I really didn't even want to SEE the steering wheel of a car again, but alas, it was necessary...

After a total of nearly a million miles...well, nearly 2,000 anyway, we made it back home to Tennessee. Thanks to all our friends for such a great time!

Celebrating Freedom

2011-07-23T00:24:00.000-04:00

We celebrated the Fourth of July with a picnic and fireworks! My cousin Amy hosted a yummy barbecue dinner. Emma and Garron entertained us with their antics...

Emma loved riding on Garron's lawnmower. It's one of those battery powered toys. She got the hang of GOING just fine, but steering was a whole other ballgame. She nearly took us all out!

Adam and VJ decided to take a turn on Emma's "motorcycle."

Later, we headed into town for our 2nd annual meeting of the firework gang.

(just a note that we will have our next meeting tomorrow night at Fun Fest!)

What a fun day of celebration!

A movie by the lake

2011-07-05T01:04:00.000-04:00

Thursdays in June, they show movies by the lake on a huge inflatable screen. My cousin Amy, Emma and I went last week. There were people there barely clothed and Emma and I were in sweatshirts! We made the most of the time before the movie started with some self portraits...
some drinks...

and the best part...fried green tomatoes and funnel cakes!

Then the movie started. Emma was not too keen on it...it was a bit loud for her.
She spent much of the movie like this...

We enjoyed the night so much! Too bad it was the last one...Guess we will wait until next summer!

My summer project

2011-07-05T00:55:00.000-04:00

My garage has needed some attention for a long time. I've just been piling stuff up for months...

So I decided that I would do something about it. I bought some super sturdy shelves and started putting them together. My Dad and Emma helped. When Emma stood up there on the shelf she said, "Is this my big girl bed?" Bless her heart...no honey, your bed will hopefully be a little softer!

Emma helped with the hammer. She thought she was something else!

Until...

Oh it was horrible. I really thought we'd need to go to the doctor. She was pitiful.

We iced it, cleaned it, added a little medicine, a princess bandaid, and lots of loving and it was much better!

Later, we had a little garage picnic.

While I worked, Emma played in her water table...she was soaked to the bone!

It's not the magazine picture look I would love to have, but it's so much better!

There are a few boxes, a cabinet, and some other things that will be heading to other homes shortly and that will make it even better!

One project down...

I waited a long time for this...

2011-06-25T01:21:00.001-04:00

This week has been Bible school at my parents' church. Emma has had a ball! My fridge is covered in papers and crafts and I LOVE it! I waited a long time to have my fridge covered with these precious kinds of papers and crafts!

Here's my crazy girl on the way to VBS tonight. She insists on wearing her glasses like this.

Walking in to church...

Instead of taking up an offering, the kids collected items to make shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child. Emma liked being able to put her items in the bucket each night.

But what she REALLY liked was the singing! She knows all the words and all the motions. It's a riot to watch her. My heart just swells when I watch her...and I can't help but smile all over myself that she is mine!

I've been so proud of her going in each night. I would stay with her for a few minutes and then I would hug and kiss her and remind her that I would be back in a few minutes.

Every night, she would call out, "Yittle while, Momma."

And I would respond, "Little while, Emma!"

Love that girl!

Enjoy the videos of my sweet girl!

There's another video, but it won't upload. Will try again tomorrow!

The end of our vacation

2011-06-25T00:30:00.000-04:00

Had to post a few last pictures from the beach.

Emma's ketchup...

she got such a kick out of this that she wouldn't even use it...she used my kethcup instead.

The girl prefers to eat standing up...and typically dancing. When we are at my parents' house, she stands on a stool to eat. Whatever works, folks!

We went to the outlets one day. Emma and Papa entertained themselves while Mom and I shopped.

On the last night, we all went down to the beach to say goodbye to the ocean. Emma was still a little afraid of the water. She kept saying, "Water get me." So someone had to hold her. Emma and papa stayed at the beach a little longer while Mom and I sat and watched some...interesting karaoke as most karoake is! We kept wondering when Papa and Emma would return from the beach...they were down there for nearly 2 hours. Dad actually got Emma to get in the water and she loved it! Too bad it was the last day...

And just for fun...

SPELL CHECK people! SPELL CHECK!!!

Here's one reason...

2011-06-16T01:24:00.000-04:00

Some people believe in the "family bed." Here's one reason why I don't...

We have been sharing a bed this week while we are at the beach. Think I might sleep on the couch tonight...

Keep on Dreamin'

2011-06-16T00:52:00.000-04:00

I had dreams of beautiful beach pictures...but, alas, a cranky child with a fear of the ocean and shadows and wind and just nothing going my way got in the way. But here are my attempts...

Some fun at the pool...

A snack by the pool...what could be better?

Ready for another day of swimming tomorrow!

More Fun at the Beach

2011-06-15T00:48:00.000-04:00

I guess Emma was worn out after a morning of swimming...

while I made her lunch, she made her own bed on the floor!

Just guess what we ate for dinner...

There's a hint on Emma's dress...

CRAB LEGS!

Yummers!

Mom couldn't crack them fast enough - Emma loved them!

No one but Papa can push Emma in the stroller! He drives her around all crazy and she just belly laughs! She kept telling him, "HIGHER, Papa! HIGHER!" I guess she meant "faster." So funny!

We took a break from walking and shopping to have a drink by this water fountain.

A little duck had made it it's home. Emma kept quacking at it.

Then she saw the carousel and HAD to ride.

Once we got on though, she didn't want on a horse.

Silly girl!

She did eventually get on one, but held on to me for dear life!

We've seen fireworks the past 2 nights. Emma has a love/hate relationship with them. She likes the look, but not the sound. There were times she'd call out, "Oh! That's Emma's favorite!" And there were times she'd bury her head in my neck. Sweetness...

Other funny things...

Last night in the car, she told us that we were driving her crazy!

She's a clever little booger.

Often, Papa will say, "I love you Emma" in a little sing song way.

For the longest time, Emma would pipe back, "I love you Papa."

Well now, she's decided to be funny and will pipe back, "I love you Nana."

(or momma, or Max...whatever she decides is funniest at the time.)

Then she just laughs hysterically!

We are having a great time! Emma loves that she gets to swim every day in her choice of pools...there are several here...and a lazy river too! She's enjoying that. She gets in her ring, and I get in mine and we relax our way around a few times...then she's ready to splash in the other pools again.

Fun memories being made...

Where it all began...

2011-06-15T00:24:00.000-04:00

It was on the very bench 6 years ago that I decided to begin the process to adopt Emma. And look where we are now? WOW! Praising the Lord for His faithfulness!

We were at the beach with 2 other families. We had gone to dinner and Amaris and I were sitting on this bench just talking. I told her that if I wasn't married by the time I was 40, I was going to adopt a baby from China. She asked why I was waiting...why not do it now while I had the energy?

Why not?

That got my wheels turning.

The next night, most of the others went to a show. I went to the bookstore. I bought 3 books and a journal.

The Idi*ts Guide to Adoption

Ad*option for Dummies

and The Lost Daughters of China

I read through them all over the next days. I couldn't sleep at night I was so excited...anxious to get home and research how to get to my girl. It was such a turning point in my life.

Little did I know the wait would be so long and so frustrating at times...but she was and is SO worth the wait!

How wonderful it feels to be here now WITH my girl...the one I waited for so long.

Love.

Ahhhhh! The Beach!

2011-06-12T18:00:00.000-04:00

I have been looking forward to this week for months! We headed out Saturday morning for Myrtle Beach. Emma was a great traveler...so thankful for that! Emma's been looking forward to this week too...so she could swim everyday! She was quick as lighning getting ready for the pool/beach this morning!

All smiles in her float! She's getting more and more comfortable in the water.

There's a little 1 foot pool that is her favorite. She wouldn't get too close to the waterfall though.

I finally talked her into letting the waterfall fill up her bucket...

Later, when Nana got ready, we all headed to the beach. I wasn't sure how Emma would react to the ocean and the sand. She doesn't like to be dirty. She is also very timid in new environments and situations. She wanted to be carried - no surprise there! I did finally get her to get down and walk a bit...

She started to get a bit more comfortable.

I was really surprised when she finally went to the water's edge!

Time to play in the sand! When I first took her shoes off, she kept trying to wipe all the sand off her feet...I kept telling her it was no use, but she was trying so hard! She finally gave up and just started playing...then she didn't seem to mind it at all.

Dad would make the mold...and she would tear it down...she thought that was hysterical!

We stayed at the beach for awhile, then she was ready to go back to the pool. We played for a bit and then headed up for lunch and a nap.

Look at the bug that was crawling on my dad at the beach! Emma wants to bring him home.

I don't think so!

We are heading out for a seafood dinner later...yum!

A reason to celebrate!

2011-06-12T17:24:00.000-04:00

I am super proud of my friend Sydney. She's been working toward her LPC license and passed her exam last week with flying colors! Way to go Syd! We celebrated with her on Friday. I told Emma we were going to a party...all she wanted to know was if there would be icing!

Emma has made friends with Syd's mom over lipstick. Her name is Darlene, but Emma calls her "Darlin'" Precious.

My girl has an affection for anything girly...lotion, lipstick, nail polish...she will mooch it from anyone!

And who could resist that sweet face?

Precious gift

2011-05-30T00:49:00.000-04:00

My friend Kelly and I were kindred spirits long before we ever met. We began talking in January 2010...although I had read her blog before that. We were both awaiting referrals...we were #1 and #2 on our agency's waiting child list. We received referrals for our girls on the same day and were convinced we would travel together. Sadly, that didn't work out, but we finally got to meet each other and see our girls together this spring. It's amazing the bond adoption can bring between 2 hearts.

The week of Mother's Day, I received a package in the mail from Kelly that said, "DO NOT OPEN UNTIL MOTHER'S DAY." Good thing I didn't go to the mailbox until Mother's Day...don't think I could have waited otherwise!

Inside was a precious charm. It's Emma's Chinese name...Gui Lan. What a treasure! Thanks Kelly!

If you like this charm, go to Jiayin Designs in the next 2 days and 10% will go to help The Sparrow Fund.

Is it bad to laugh at your child?

2011-05-30T00:18:00.000-04:00

She loves to drink her cereal milk...not sure what went wrong today, but I was rolling.

She was so mad...and my laughing and picture taking didn't help matters.

Welcome Summer Break

2011-05-25T22:24:00.000-04:00

My poor girl is not starting off summer break the way I would like.

At least I don't have to worry about getting a sub!

Priceless

2011-05-22T01:02:00.000-04:00

In Guangzhou, we stayed at the White Swan. There is a tradition in the adoption community to have pictures taken on the "red couch." Funny...I thought there was just 1 red couch, but there were a gagillion. These pictures were taken by Dave who traveled with me. He is a professional photographer and I tell you...these pics are priceless...

I can't even stand the cuteness!

More from China...

2011-05-22T00:55:00.000-04:00

Once in Xi'an, I was able to post pictures more easily. Here are a few favorite memories...even if they were already posted.

May 11, 2010, we celebrated Emma's 2nd birthday and made a trip to see the Terra Cotta Warriors.

Hi nana! I will be home soon!

Our guide got a cake to help us celebrate Emma's special day.

She didn't seem to mind the Chinese tradition of icing on the face last year...

Emma's first visit to that lovely coffee joint! She was sound asleep...maybe she needed an espresso?!?!

When I saw these golden arches, my heart leapt for joy! Sadly, they didn't have iced tea!

Emma made a purchase though!

The next day was incredibly emotional. I had information on Emma's finding spot and our guide arranged for us to go there. She was found at the pediatric gate of this hospital. My heart wants to say that her family left her here because they knew she would be safe until she was found. I can't describe the emotions I felt as I walked down that hallway. I don't know who walked that hallway with her the first time...I don't know how they felt...did they wait around watching to someone to find her? Or did they just walk away? I can't imagine...

After we left there, we went to Emma's orphanage. She was so loved and well cared for here. I am so thankful for the nannies who cared for her!

I was very apprehensive. I didn't want to let her out of the sling. I was worried about how this would affect our attachment. Almost immediately, a nanny greeted us and wanted to hold Emma. She was unsure.

She held her for a bit and when I took her back, I just held her tighter than ever. This nanny also totally blessed me out and called me a "bad momma" for not having her dressed warmly enough. I felt horrible. I know it was a bit chilly, but she was certainly not in any danger. I felt like a heel though...it was awful.

They quickly put more clothes on her.

What a blessing...I was given a journal detailing her first 2 years. There were lots of pictures included and at least 2 journal entries a month. The book is in the process of being translated. I am anxious to read it all!

There were tiny feet and hand prints...pictures of her each month...

Standing by her crib...we were not allowed inside any of the rooms.

Her picture was on the wall.

Leaving the orphanage for the last time...

Waving bye bye to the director of the orphanage...

Eating a treat at the market.

You could find ANYTHING to eat in the market...John was not impressed...

After leaving Xi'an, we headed to Guangzhou. Here we are at Lucy's...the famous diner that serves American food. Sadly, I was so sick the whole week, I couldn't enjoy it.

Such mothering instincts...feeding her baby...

More to come...

A Very Special Fundraiser

2011-05-16T23:09:00.000-04:00

My dear friends Mark and Kelly recieved their referral the same day I received my referral for Emma. They are a very dear family. During their adoption process, they contacted the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia to review their file. There was a hefty fee involved, but in addition to reviewing the referral file, the doctors at CHOP are available for consultation before your trip, during your trip, and upon your return they will provide a thorough examination of your child. Mark and Kelly were ever so grateful to have CHOPS to refer to while in China. During the first days, Lydia became very ill and they needed to contact a doctor stateside for advice. Thankfully, Lydia turned a corner and continues to thrive! Now that they are home, CHOP is still a great resource as they are able to attend adoption seminars which have been eye opening and helpful for the entire family.

While the services CHOPS provides are so beneficial, for many families, the cost is inhibitive. Mark and Kelly decided that they wanted to create a fund to help families cover this cost. The Sparrow Fund was born out of that desire.

During the month of May, dozens of businesses have pledged a part of their proceeds to help The Sparrow Fund. Please take a moment to check out their site...you might even find some goodies you can't live without!

More than anything, please pray for Mark, Kelly, and The Sparrow Fund - that God would use it to help many families care for their adoptive children.

Finally...Party Day!

2011-05-15T23:48:00.001-04:00

We've been counting down the days for weeks! And finally, it was here...

The food...just a little...so much for that plan! ;)

The treat bags...

The friends...

And the MANY gifts...WOW! We are blessed!

The Cupcakes...they turned out so cute!

Emma had much help with gift opening...and she was very gracious to let them help.

I got my girl her first tricycle...she still can't get the hang of pushing the pedals, but she'll get it!

Nana and Papa got her this precious kitchen which she is LOVING!

Finally...cupcake time!

There is a tradition in China to put icing on their face. Emma is not so keen on this tradition...Icing is her favoroite part - why would I waste it like this???

The girls sporting their princess shoes!

Still trying to learn to pedal!

Later my cousin Wendy, her daughter, Delaney, Emma and I snuggled up on the couch just enjoying the company!

It was a fantastic day!

Time for a hair cut

2011-05-15T23:12:00.000-04:00

Since our first haircut fiasco, I was a little leary to bring her back...but this time she was ready. She's been talking about it for days! She was ready to hop up in the princess seat.

All smiles this time...

Great hair cut! So proud of my brave girl!

A Fun Birthday!

2011-05-15T22:59:00.001-04:00

I had planned to make this plate on Gotcha Day, but they were closed. It made for a fun Birthday craft though!

We picked out our plate and colors. Emma and I painted the base and then we used her thumbprints to make polka dots around the edge.

It turned out perfectly! It will be brighter once it's fired...I will post a new pic then.

We ended the day with a mexican dinner...My girl loves salsa and guacomole! She ate an entire bowl of guacamole - straight!

THen they brought out a large sombrero and tried to get her to wear it while the sang. No doing! She would barely eat the ice cream they brought after that!

Still a very good birthday for my girl!

You are Mine Forever Day - 2011

2011-05-15T22:44:00.000-04:00

We started the day by removing our link. There was much cheering!

We were going to eat lunch at our favorite Chinese place, but they are now closed on Mondays. BOO! Then we tried to go to Subway, but we got there about the same time as a bus full of kids...So much for that. So then we tried Taco Bell...yet another bus load of kids. I happened to have some crackers and fruit in the car...so that was our lunch.

After we ate, we fed the geese. Emma loved this!

We watched them swim in the lake.

We tried some photo opps...not very successful...

But the swings brought out the smiles!

Later, we went to a different Chinese place. I didn't care for it, but she liked the noodles.

And this was her fortune...

I love you baby girl...you are mine forever!

ADOPTION DAY!

2011-05-11T00:06:00.002-04:00

The next morning Emma woke up quiet, but calm. We got her dressed and prepared for adoption day! A day with even more paperwork - could it be??? Had I not signed my name enough? I guess not. Emma played with the stacking cups while Amy and I got ready.

Sorry - I cannot change the pics from the disc for some reason so some are sideways...

Working intently...

One of Emma's favorite foods in China was french toast. I guess she couldn't decide whether to eat or drink...

At breakfast, there was a lady from England (I think) who was amazed that we had just met the day before. She was so sweet.

We headed back to the Civil Affairs office for the interview and final paper signing.

Emma had to put her foot print on the paper to say she agreed, too! ;)

Marked by love...

Signing...signing...signing...

And Emma just sat on my lap...not making a sound.

The manager of the orphanage was there as well and she gave us the sweetest gift...a bracelet engraved with her birthday. The orphanage keeps one as well...

Emma trying on her bracelet...

Here's a video of us at dinner. we ordered congee for Emma which is a rice porridge type dish. I imagined a small bowl...it was HUGE! Enough to feed a small army! At one point during dinner, I was trying to use chopsticks to get a dumpling and I was not being successful in the least! Finally, feeling sorry for me, our guide helped out and got one for me. I told her she was much better with chopsticks than I was. Her quick-witted reply..."Well, you are much better at fork." One of my favorite non-Emma related memories! You will notice a poor mother moment when Emma grabs the congee and spills the hot soup on her little hand. I was very thankful that she was not burned!

After dinner, it was time for another bath...not any better than the night before!

Emma slept well...such a trooper. I was so excited knowing that one of the outings I was most looking forward to on the trip was the next day...The Terra Cotta Warriors. It was also my sweet baby's birthday. HOw blessed I was to be able to have her before her 2nd birthday!

Fast forward to now...my little girl is asleep in her bed dreaming He11o Kitty birthday dreams. She is so excited about her birthday! I got cupcakes for her to share with her friends tomorrow. We are planning to finally paint our plate that we wanted to do on Gotcha Day after school. Then, she chose Mexican for dinner...well, salsa anyway. The girl loves salsa and guacamole!

A few more Gotcha Day memories...

2011-05-10T23:39:00.000-04:00

Leaving the Civil Affairs Office was rough for Lan Lan. She was ok...I was holding her, but then I handed her to Amy while I got the carrier ready. When I handed her to Amy, the crying began in earnest again. She wailed. Even after I got her back, she was really struggling. It was pitiful. I knew I was taking her away from all she'd known. While we were in the room with her nanny, there was still some familiar. When we left...familiar was gone. It was heartbreaking.

John thought it was all just a little much...

Once, we got outside and walking, she began to calm down.

We had to get some official type pictures made, so we walked to the photo shop.

We were all a little spent, so we decided to eat at the hotel buffet. Emma walked...holding my hand so sweetly.

Such a brave girl...

The sweet thing ate everything I put before her. She was a hungry girl!

And the personality started to appear...

We headed back to the room for bathtime. Based on her referral, I was under the impression that she LIKED baths.

Well...

...not so much! She whimpered so pitifully. She wasn't really crying loudly...jsut whimpering and GRIPPING the tub. I got her washed up quickly and got her out of the tub. I hoped that a little lotion massage would calm her...

She was not so convinced...

Once we started getting her jammies on, she was a little more comfortable. I have to give a shout out to my friend Cindy for these cute jammies. She sent them to me a LONG time ago! She was my secret pal in an y*hoo group when we were first logged in in 2007. I was so glad they fit Emma!

Time for a bottle...

Then, we skyped with some family and friends. They needed to meet her LIVE!

While we were talking to my friend, Sydney, she had a bit more bottle and fell right to sleep. So peaceful in spite of the chaos of the day...

What a day! What a blessing!

Mother's Day thoughts...

2011-05-09T03:15:00.000-04:00

Last year, I held Emma for the first time on Mother's Day. It was such a surreal moment. Tonight, I created a movie (seen in the post below) and as I spent hours looking through video and pictures, I was totally taken back to that day...to those emotions...the joy, the fear, the trying-not-to-cry-so-I-don't-freak-her-out, the way my heart ached when she cried because I knew I was taking her away from everything she'd ever known...it was the most amazing day. That will forever be the best Mother's Day ever!

Today, I had all sorts of intentions with photos...but we had camera issues. It helps if you put the memory card in. BOO! So, I will just tell you the story...

On days when we have time, I will get Emma from her crib and we will snuggle and talk and wake up in my bed for a few minutes. Those are some of my favorite moments! I was glad to be able to do that today. We talked about last year. When I tell her stories about China...or any story about her life so far, she will just listen so intently and often ask to hear it again! I told her about walking into the room and seeing her from behind. I knew it was her from the back of her head...I knew she was mine! I told her how serious she was for the longest time and about how she finally just had to let it all out and have a good cry...and it was loud! I told her how I just held her close and didn't want to ever let go. I told her that I was so glad she made me a momma!

We went to church with my Momma and then out to lunch. While at lunch, she fell into a chair and I seriously expected HUGE amounts of blood. No blood, but the edge of the chair left it's mark on her cheek. Later, she hit her forehead and has a line/bruise there too. At church tonight, she was chasing me and fell and skinned her knee. Maybe it's a good thing we had camera issues...the girl's had a rough day!

She did give me the greatest gift...a 3 hour nap! She had a busy day yesterday so I think she had some catching up to do. I don't need an explanation...I just enjoyed it! ;)

Tomorrow, we will celebrate You are Mine day! It's supposed to be beautiful, so I think we will head to the park to play and feed the ducks. Can't wait to spend the day with my girl...What a gift she is! I am glad that she made me a momma!

My Montage 5/8/11 at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-05-09T02:45:00.001-04:00

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com