The Crew

Busy Hands

2012-02-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

Yes, the infectious giggler LOVES to be busy!

She has mastered the cookie production. Joanie - watch out!

She was more than delighted to have one of her papers featured on the Wall of Fame along with her sisters.

The pride of decorating her cane for Valentine's Day shines through clearly! Warning - she loves to show it off to anyone gullible enough to show the slightest interest. Now that she has gotten the decorating spirit, I guess we've got to gather supplies to decorate for Mardi Gras next week!

Truly, I still can't believe that I first beheld this little darlin' just two months ago. Two short months, and what a total transformation she has gone through.

Spike-a-Licious

2012-02-16T08:59:00.000-08:00

Oh, yes - that is a full fledged spike on that deliciousnous of a a daughter! She loved it! Thanks, JieJie!

You want to know what else? That scrumptiousnous, who has only heard English for less than two months, is beginning to speak in complete sentences. Complete English sentences!

Feb 14, 2012

Go in the car.

Father

Son

Holy Spirit

necklace

I want some more.

Did Daddy go to work?

Lord

Open the door.

Close the door.

Time to eat.

get jammies on

I want to go in the car.

I want to get my shoes.

I want some chicken.

I want pizza.

Daddy go to sleep.

Take a shower.

I want toast.

Look, Mama!

We continue to be amazed at how this lamb of God has bloomed before our eyes. Only because of Him and His amazing plan do we have this awesome privilege of ALL of our children. I pray daily that I might be a worthy vessel of Him, caring for His most beloved creations.

I know MissE looks disgusted, but truly, she wasn't. This is the first time the cousins have seen each other in a couple of years. And what was the occasion, you might wonder?

Sure enough - a birthday! EIGHTEEN? HOW is that remotely possible that our baby son is THAT old?????

Doing one of his favorite activities - having a group of friends over and playing airsoft in the back forty. How could life be any better than that, now tell me!

A Beautiful Winter Day

2012-02-03T17:58:00.001-08:00

Yup - the boy has new wheels. Not that he is excited about it. At all. Grandpa, Papa and IBoy have put in countless hours and miles searching for THE car and they finally found it. He has had it 3 days. It has been washed 3 times. Not that he is excited about it. At all.

The weather outside today was nearly 60 degrees! In February! We took advantage of it and played outside all afternoon. JiJi learned to ride her scooter. Miss Daredevil, Zabi, took on another hill on her bike. Fortunately it didn't end in a crash this time!

The girls made all sorts of plans for their tree - they figured it probably wasn't quite big enough to sleep in tonight, as "bears CAN climb trees, remember, mom?"

The good neighbor rule - it is ok to squirt with a hose, as long as you are prepared with an umbrella!

Wordless Wednesday - The Chocolate Wink

2012-02-01T08:36:00.000-08:00

CNY

2012-01-29T20:17:00.000-08:00

Happy Lunar New Year!

Lan Su Gardens in Portland, OR

Papa clicked the camera at just the perfect moment - JiJi had just pushed back on MissE, making her narrowly avert falling over backwards into the water! I, of course, was oblivious.

Do Everything Good

2012-01-28T12:27:00.000-08:00

I LOVE this!!!!

Ability

2012-01-28T11:10:00.001-08:00

"Blindness is not a disability but rather the ability to see

the world without eyes."

-Cody Laplante,

high school senior, legally visually impaired

Hot out of the Henhouse

2012-01-24T16:48:00.000-08:00

OK, class, meet your new teacher! Since her sisters all wear glasses, JiJi figured she should wear some, too. She was prouder than punch when I noticed that she was wearing MY glasses! Somehow, I simply cannot get enough of her smile - I eat it up as fast as she dishes it out! I wish all of you could experience her first hand - suffice it to say that she exudes sweetness in her energetic little body. My weeks away from being 7 years old, 38 pound, 43 inch tall princess, who is lucky be able to hold up a size 2 undergarment!

Who knew learning symmetry could be so much fun? Again, you have to know this Chicka to experience the full creative vivaciousness of her sweet, sensitive personality.

Our snow flake experiment with a borax solution worked! Somehow, ours didn't turn out particularly symmetrical.

After a hard, cold day, 3 of the girls decided to take a snooze next to the heater. Oops - busted by Soni.

JiJi's new job - folding the napkins and setting them on the table.

Remember less than a month ago when I posted that she would rip any clip out of her hair as soon as I could put it in? What does this girl now ask for each and every morning? Her pony, of course, complete with a bow that she chooses each day! It even stays in ALL day! That's my girl!

We learned how to identify quadrilaterals today.

And now for the piece de resistance - my henhouse - or to be more precise, what I found IN my henhouse.

I was ecstatic when I went to see my girls today. My Maran's are laying!!!!! Aren't they gorgeous? Why had I never heard of this breed before??? My Maran rooster is as calm and gentlemanly as they come, and oh, so handsome! Breakfast for a select few of us tomorrow is going to be fun! Hmm - how to select? First come, first serve? Draw names? You make it, you eat it? What? I have to share?????

Wanna Date, Honey?

2012-01-24T12:24:00.000-08:00

Here, at my friend's blog, I found a recipe for . . . . . ok, well, I can't find it there right now, but you might want to stop in and say hello to my friend, anyway . . . . ok, so moving right along - a recipe for . . . . a recipe for, well, ok it isn't there either (still a good site to visit!).

Maybe I was dreaming it, but I know I didn't, because I have the recipe sitting right here in front of me and I have made it. And I LOVE it! So easy and delicious on freshly ground peanut butter!

OK, so I thought this was going to be a quick easy post, but NO. Did I even save the durned recipe on my 'puter? NO.

Here is it - let me know if you enjoy it as much as I am!

Date Honey

1 cup pitted dates (about 6-8 Medjool or 18-20 Deglet Noor)

1 cup water

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Pour dates and water into a small saucepan, making sure dates are completely covered (add additional water if necessary). Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low (don't forget to do this!!!!) and simmer 45-60 minutes or until dates are very soft and broken down (kind like me). Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly for about 15 minutes. Here is recipe says to pour mixture (including liquid) into a blender or food processor and puree until completely smooth. Not - heck, that gives you just one more dirty container! I just smooshed the heckarooni outa'em. Completely smooth - patoooey - a few little ol' chunks isn't gonna hurt anyone! Ok, enough nonsense, sprinkle in cinnamon and stir well. Store in a sealed container in refrigerator. If it lasts that long. Yield: 12 servings (serving size about 1 Tablespoon). No joke on the serving size, a little goes a long way since it is so yummily sweet.

Enjoy it on toast, sliced apples, PBJ sandwiches - get creative.

OK - your turn. Please do let me know how you like it!

Food for Thought

2012-01-19T11:29:00.000-08:00

The Case For Functional Skills

He is 18 years old, TMH (30-40 I.Q.) and has been in school 12 years. He has had a number of years of "individual instruction" and he has learned to do a lot of things!

He can now do lots of things he couldn't do before!

He can put 100 pegs in a board in less than 10 minutes while in his seat with 95% accuracy.
But he can't put quarters in vending machines.

Upon command he can "touch" nose, shoulder, leg, foot, hair, ear. He's still working on wrist, ankle, hips.
But, he can't blow his nose when needed.

He can now do a 12 piece Big Bird puzzle with 100 percent accuracy and color an Easter Bunny and stay in the lines!
But, he prefers music, but was never taught how to use a radio or record player.

He can now fold primary paper in halves and even quarters.
But, he can't fold his clothes.

He can sort blocks by color, up to 10 different colors!
But, he can't sort clothes; white from colors for washing.

He can roll Play Dough and make wonderful clay snakes!
But he can't roll bread dough and cut out biscuits.

He can string beads in alternating colors and match it to a pattern on a DLM card.
But, he can't lace his shoes.

He can sing his ABC's and tell me names of all the letters of the alphabet when presented on a card in upper case with 80 percent accuracy.
But, he can't tell the men's room from the ladies' room when we go to McDonald's.

He can be told it's cloudy/rainy and take a black felt cloud and put it on the day of the week on an enlarged calendar (with assistance.)
But he still goes out in the rain without a raincoat or hat.

He can identify with 100 percent accuracy 100 different Peabody Picture Cards by pointing!
But he can't order a hamburger by pointing to a picture or gesturing.

He can walk a balance beam frontwards, sideways and backwards!
But he can't walk up the steps or bleachers unassisted in the gym to go to a basketball game.

He can count to 100 by rote memory!
But he doesn't know how many dollars to pay the waitress for a $2.59 McDonald's coupon special.

He can put the cube in the box, under the box, beside the box, and behind the box.
But he can't find the trash bin in McDonald's and empty his trash into it.

He can sit in a circle with appropriate behavior and sing songs and play "Duck, Duck, Goose."
But, nobody else in his neighborhood his age seems to want to do that. I guess he's just not ready yet.

By: Preston Lewis

ready, set GO!!!!

2012-01-18T19:53:00.000-08:00

My little girl just counted nearly to 100 in ENGLISH!!!!!! She had a few that she got mixed up and each new ten she came to, she did the typical thing - 20 10, 30 10, instead of 30 or 40, but she rattled them all off!!!!

She also sings the ABC's in English and I counted them - she has over 60 English words that she uses every day - unprompted and completely in the proper spots! She is learning SO fast - it takes my breath away!

Sorry guys - I just had to brag! Hope you can put up with me! For those of you who saw my sweet JiJi in action while still in China - you KNOW what you saw and I am telling you - she is NOT the same little girl. The spunk is there, but well directed and I swear, that smile does NOT leave her face!

6 Packs in the Snow

2012-01-18T19:17:00.000-08:00

Notice the 6 pack abs? What? Not what you thought I was going to show you????

JiJi got the scrambled eggs ready to cook.

SNOW and MORE SNOW! We woke up to about 18 inches this morning!!!! With the tropical heat wave that moved in over the course of the day, it is almost gone now - boo hoo! The heat wave brought rain, too, so we didn't go outside and play this afternoon. Instead, Zabi was busy with her Legos.

If you look closely in the center of the goat feeder, you will see a head - she loves to snuggle up in the warmth of the alfalfa, and of course, being such a lazy girl, she doesn't even have to move to eat!

Yes, a wink and a chocolate mouth - could it get any better????

Using the metal bowl as a target, JiJi tossed wooden spools into it. She knew if it was a dull thunk, she hit the towel - close, but not quite. She knew if she heard wood on wood, not close at all - it hit the wood floor and rolled away. TING - you got it in the bowl!

Sleeping Beauty

2012-01-16T11:29:00.000-08:00

Our newest little sparkly princess falls out nearly every day still. Until last month, she was used to having a nap every day, which we are trying to faze out. In the middle of dress up time yesterday, I came into the room and found her sound asleep on the floor, her legs tucked under, all warm and cozy. Do you see her hands folded so sweetly, too? Melts this mama's heart.

Everytime I look at this dreamy photo, though, I think of all the other princesses and princes just waiting to sparkle with a family of their own. Won't you consider helping just one sweetie find their family? Don't just think about it or wish you could, DO something today! Please, if you don't have any idea what to do or where to start - ASK me - I'll help you find a way. Prayerfully, monetarily, action - there is a way for you to help!

Snow Play

2012-01-15T12:06:00.000-08:00

Zabi took aim and actually got me!

This is JiJi's first snow - she couldn't get enough of going down the hill on the sled! Her English is growing by leaps and bounds. When we came in from the snow I asked her if she had fun in the snow and she answered without hesitation "uh-huh, YES!" It took me a minute to realize that she had really answered my question! As you can see, she lost her other front tooth - again, I have no idea where it went!

Papa even took a turn going down the little hill.

Chicka and Joanie joined the fun.

Joanie and I braved the big hill and set a new record!

There was so much snow blowing in my face I couldn't see where we were going. The blind leading the blind?

We ended up just short of the mailbox at the end of the driveway - that black speck is us halfway down - the fence at our left.

IBoy had fun messing around with the toy snowboard.

Long Haul Trucking

2012-01-12T21:27:00.000-08:00

My brother and sister-in-law are having a blast in their retirement careers of being long haul truckers! Yep - even she is! They were in our area today and we met up for lunch and a tour of the beast! He is hauling a load of 75' poles next week - NO WAY!!!!

Of course, the favorite part for the littles was pulling that air horn handle!

Weaving a Wonderful Day

2012-01-11T09:30:00.000-08:00

After reading a story about weaving, we thought it would be fun to weave a pot holder. Even Joanie had to give it a try.

Yesterday was such a beautiful day, we decided to go out for a walk in the back forty. Since Joanie's guide dog is back in training - she doesn't like puddles, and, well, where we live, puddles are a fact of life. While Spritz is taking a refresher course, Joanie is using her cane. Not her favorite tool.

Exactly who is leading who on this hike????

Queen of the hill!

What on earth????? The two halves of M&M treat tins are high heels. Who but Chicka would think of that? Furthermore, who, other than Chicka, would DO that????

Life in the Slow Lane

2012-01-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

"WHAT????? It is ok to bring the teeter totter INTO the house????? OK, mama!!!!!"

IBoy headed to his first EMT class. He was selected from a large pool of applicants to receive a scholarship to pay for the course. Great! HOWEVER, that means he is carrying 19 college credits for his 2nd quarter of college plus his Fire Academy class each morning that earns him additional college credits through the high school. Heavy load for him, but he is determined to make it work!

Our first crop of mushrooms - a gift to Papa from IBoy and MissE at Christmas. They were delicious!

The girls came up with the idea to tie the scoots together to form a train and then take turns pulling it.

Yes, he is actually walking on the stilts with JiJi on top! There is Joanie on the left of the photo - you can see how high up the stilts are!

We managed a pony-tail!!!!! She is quite proud of it and doesn't try to pull it out - yeah!

Chicka actually got this coat on. She is 6. It is NOT a stretch fabric. The sleeve on her arm was so tight that it caused the lower part of her arm to swell up and we had a dickens of a time getting it off of her. IBoy had to stabilize her shoulder and wrist so that I could tug it off. She had the stretch pants that match the coat on, too. The waist came up to her knees, which caused her to walk around with her knees pressed together. It was SO funny I couldn't even think to take the photo of her IN the clothes!

Workin' on Stilts

2012-01-06T07:21:00.000-08:00

We have a pair of stilts in the house - actually designed for a person 4' 6" or taller. Not to worry - my girlies have figured out how to use them anyway! Zabi tried and tried one afternoon to master them despite the odds - and she DID! Chicka is trying to catch up and JiJi refuses to be left in the dust! Too much fun! I think that I have attached one video, but the other one is too big - I'll have to redo it.

We have added mini marshmallows to our dried bean/pea/rice play mixture. Two girls are blindfolded when they play with it - the challenge is to seek out those overly stale marshmallows only using your fingers - harder than it sounds! Zabi has some significant language/speech challenges, so she is rewarded with eating her marshmallow when she says "I found it" instead of "I find it".

We have also been listening to and playing alot of music - all kinds - recorders, guitars, zylophones, piano - and all styles - from rock to classical and everything in between. When I asked JiJi in China if she like to dance, she paused thoughtfully and then answered, "I gave that a try once, and it just didn't work out for me". Guess what, our little one LOVES to dance the way we do - crazy dancing with a ton of laughing! Who says you have to dance in one particular way, anyway? If she is anything like her elder siblings, she will be swing dancing in no time, anyway!

I am so delighted and grateful to be a Mom. I learn new and different things with each child. To see our youngest daughters blossom from neglected, underdeveloped sweet peas into happy, healthy and rambunctious individuals, it makes my heart soar. Thank you, Jesus, for allowing me to be a part of your precious souls' lives.

Hard at Work Relaxing!

2011-12-31T16:19:00.000-08:00

Nothing too exciting to report. Hmmm - maybe that is a good thing!

JiJi had her first optic exam. Fortunately we were blessed with an interpreter because she had an ultrasound done on both of her eyes. Our awesome doc was not entirely pleased with the results and wants to have a more thorough exam under sedation, but this is what we know for now.

Her right eye is in a process of atrophy - it is dying and shrinking. Her left eye has no optic nerve and has something protruding from the interior of her eye - poking up, showing a small marble size bump. There are also vitreous clumps throughout the eye. I really don't know what all this means yet - no doubt I will become proficient at all these new terms soon enough. We do know that she has zero light perception and vision. I have to laugh, though - everyone who meets our sweetie asks if I'm SURE that she is blind - she gets around SO well and doesn't let ANYTHING stop her! That's my girl!

Dad is at work today, the bigs are off to an overnight party with their friends and the littles and I are going low-key. We plan to be fast asleep long before the clock strikes 12!

Here are a few snaps of fun over the past few days.

That shirt says it all - even with a chocolate smudged mouth!

Zabi really is enjoying her legos from last year.

We sang ABC alphabet song while JiJi scribbled on her brailler.

Always a fav around here - multiple textures with a variety of scooping/transferring utensils into a receptacle over and over and over again.

What would a post be without a Chicka pose? You can't see the gleeful grin on her face, but it is definitely there!

Everyone wanted to dress up today, and then take advantage of a break between rain storms to visit the goats.

Lovely fashion statement, girlfriend! The binocular accessory is a bonus statement.

Now you're talkin'! Droopy wings, though.

Now that you've had a peek at our doin's, or lack thereof, let me know what you are up to before we get back into schedules and appointments!

HOME!!!

2011-12-23T10:32:00.000-08:00

Yessireeesir - we are HOME!

We are headed to Portland for JiJi's eye appointment this morning. Everything is going very well, better than I anticipated, actually! Not perfect, but close! Inappropriate noises and behaviors are falling away as if melted snow and the beautiful child that God created is emerging before our eyes. This is NOT to say that there are not difficult moments - hee hee!

We are both sleeping in large chunks at kind of odd hours, but we are getting there. Chicka and Zabi are adjusting beautifully to having a new sister and are being graciously patient and understanding.

MissE and IBoy are beyond awesome older siblings, love JiJi to pieces and have supremely helped hold down the fort in my absence. Papa is, as always, my hero and sweetie and can't get enough of his newest daughter.

We are, indeed, blessed beyond measure by our Blessed Redeemer and are eagerly anticipating His birthday in a few days, celebrating together with a new family member in our midst.

I am supremely busy, so my apologies in advance if I don't post again for a bit - I'll try, but realistically, my time is precious and I choose to spend it with my family and not on the computer.

God bless you all and a very, merry Christmas to each of you!

Wedding Day

2011-12-19T06:44:00.001-08:00

Another LONG, BUSY day!

We went to the Consulate Appointment, only to find that one paper was incorrectly filled out, of course one that was notarized, so nothing could be finalized. I am assured that if I come back in the morning, it can be corrected and done in time for us to leave. Why it couldn't be redone while I was right there, I don't know. I am trusting God that He will orchestrate everything just right. We are scheduled to leave at 5 PM tomorrow evening in a van for Hong Kong, then fly from there at 8AM Wednesday morning!

Our van arrived back at the hotel and we jumped into a taxi with my friend Michelle to head to the wedding. We had no idea that it was over an hour away, past the next city and into the village

I am FAR too tired to try to write about each of the photos - I'll try to come back later and fill you in. So sorry! JiJi was naughty even to our friend, who has been her buddy this whole week. We had to excuse ourselves and apologize to the bride for her behavior. I am VERY much looking forward to being home and not on the go all day every day and hoping that a calmer environment will work to everyone's advantage with JiJi, herself included!

Safari

2011-12-18T16:47:00.001-08:00

Quick, quick post - CA appointment this morning!

Went to Safari - awesome!!!

Clips went into JiJi's hair and stayed for 30 seconds! A record!

Yes, cars were backing up on a jammed freeway to go back to the exit!!!!!

photos and captions

2011-12-17T16:13:00.001-08:00

Sorry guys - I can't get the photos to go in the middle of words, so I can't put captions.

Heidi and I posed with some of the opera people.

I also wanted to mention that JiJi pulled out one of her top front teeth sometime during a night - I have no idea where the tooth went, and honestly think that she may have eaten it! Our guide asked her and she said she didn't know!

At home - arm yourself and watch our little ball o'fire. She can head butt you faster than anything - right on the hip bone. Ouch. She also does something that may be trying to tickle, but she pokes all of her fingers straight into the soft spots of your belly or back - it feels like she is trying to dig your intestines out and then she laughs. NOT funny! Oh, yes - I have received a few hard kicks to the shins, too! Heidi has been pinched.

Nero and his parents and friends all say that she is VERY smart and clever and assure us that once she learns English, we can work on those behaviors to help her find more appropriate ones.

Thank you, dear Laura, for your scripture verses that you are praying over us. We really do appreciate it! Heidi and I have laughed over my calm voice to JiJi. What I really want to say to her does not come out - just some irritating, "now, now, I know that you are a good girl, it is time to show mama what a sweet one you are!!!!" gag! "listen, girlfriend - you will NOT act like this - you will sit on my lap quietly in a corner until you are done with this unacceptable behavior, and then we will go have some fun!" is what I would rather be saying, in a not too friendly tone! However, that will get us nowhere yet!

OK - off to breakfast and the Safari Park! Please continue to keep us in your prayers for patience and safety!

Blessings to all

Sightseeing and Tantrums and the Tooth Fairy

2011-12-17T05:11:00.001-08:00

Oh, yes. Tantrums. LOTS of tantrums. I really believe that half of them could be avoided if only I could explain to her that I'm not taking something away from her, just opening a bag or bottle, but no - she flies off the handle because she is not able to do it and then when I try to help her

Heidi got half a bottle of water exploded all over her and the taxi tonight when Miss wanted a drink. Oh, yes. And then a full fledged fit on top of it. Screaming, hitting, pinching. Fun.

Of course it doesn't help when you have half a dozen (or more) Chinese women huddling around, offering bribes, condolensces, and whatever else they might be saying - I have no idea!
On the positive note, we were able to visit the Chen Family Temple and a Buddhist Temple yesterday.
Today our former exchange student, Nero, who has returned home to JiangXi, flew to us with his Mom and Dad to spend the day! His parents are delightful and were an immense help to us with JiJi. They talked to her so much and explained things to her that we could not

I do believe that today, although long and tiring, was the first "enjoyable" day we have had! We went on a boat ride through a canal system, similar to Venice, went to a market and found many unusual items to bring home (along with a ton of unusual stares, since we were in an area where no Westerners usually go)

The boat went in front of an open stage where children were performing a traditional opera.
We were treated to a traditional Cantonese opera Tea House where some of the performers were kind enough to pose for a photo with us crazy Americans. Finally we closed the day with dinner with a couple of Nero's Mom's former students. Amazing dinner full of items we never dreamed we would be eating, but were absolutely delicious! The dinner was frequently interrupted with rounds of "cheers" with a very good wine. I don't drink, but thankfully was told beforehand that it would be rude not to join, so I tipped my glass at each cheer and merely whetted my whistle and I guess that was enough!

SWI Visit

2011-12-15T02:03:00.001-08:00

Wow. Wow. Wow. There are no possible words to express what we just came from. We knew that our JiJi was in the "heavy disable" area. That is an understatement. We are told that most of the kids we just met today will live in that institution for their entire lives. Some are able to go out of that one room, out of their beds. Others will be there until they die. Each and every one was sweet and lovable. We tried to give as much lovin' to them in our brief time there.
JiJi was distraught when we first arrived - confused, thinking that she was going to stay there. She was assured that she would leave with me, not to worry, that this was her time to say good bye. She broke down a couple of more times - you can see her tear streaks in one photo. She was SO excited to see her best friend, though!
About broke my heart - one little Down's guy kept wanting to kiss and hug me, another held my hand most of the time. I met a 15 year old with severely deformed hands/arms and I don't know what else - he grasped my hand and would NOT let me go!!!!! He was asking if I was from America and what it was like. Another asked if I was his mama, come to take him home. It was heart wrenching. I had a difficult time keeping myself from bawling.
Some of her behaviors and sounds that we deal with each day are now explained. That is what she has lived for the past six years. We were able to take photos of her file, we have the information on who found her and his testimony. We are all exhausted after about 6 hours in the car.

The photo of JiJi in front of all the photos - her baby picture is the top row, 2nd from the right. Sorry about those hideous boots - she won't consider wearing anything else - she even has to know where they are when she is sleeping!
Much love to all!
BTW - can someone tell me if the photos are appearing ok on your end? I can't see it from here!

checking in

2011-12-14T15:13:00.001-08:00

A huge thanks to all who are keeping us in your prayers - everything is fine, but we have NO time to be on the computer! We are either on the go or chasing Rosie-Posie. She is EXTREME BUSY!
We are headed to the orphanage today.

She is a joker - she asked my friend at dinner last night - "what are you eating?" Michelle told her. "What? Are you eating my fingernails, too?" and she asked Michelle's husband Tam, if he cooked the dinner. "did you cook with your socks on?" she is constantly making silly jokes to everyone around - I just wish I could understand what she was saying to people when we don't have an interpreter with us! Hmmmm - maybe I don't want to know!
One of the few moments she is quiet - sleeping!
The one and only attempt to put a pretty in Rosie's hair - it lasted as long as it took for me to take the photo!

We were adventurous - we ate grilled octopus tentacle and scorpions, but passed on the tarantulas.

The infamous chicken man who sells disgusting candies.

Oh My Heavens!!!!!

2011-12-12T04:44:00.001-08:00

I can't get enough of this girl! She is no push over - she knows what she wants, how she wants it, where, when AND how. AND you better make it snappy! She is IN charge and makes no bones about telling everyone around her that little fact. She had the guts to tell our waitress at dinner tonight that we were coming back tomorrow, "bye bye, ayi!" (bye auntie!) she called as we were walking out the door! She told a shopkeeper that she wants to buy high heels. Uh, excuse me, girlfriend - HOW old are you????
Not a single tear was shed - she came right into my arms and gave me a hug. Her little hands are everywhere - exploring - taking it all in.
She loved her bath, settled into bed and is sleeping peacefully. Since Heidi and I have been up since 4AM, we are now headed to bed, too.

We also had the privilege of meeting up with Shonni, of Nations Around My Table (I hope that is right!) and Jean, of There's No Place Like Home, and parts of their families at Lucy's this afternoon. What a small world!

Thanks for all of your continued prayers, I KNOW that that made a huge impact on all that has led up to this day, this day, and our future. THANK YOU - THANK YOU, GOD, for this awesome blessing that YOU have allowed us.

THE Day

2011-12-11T13:28:00.001-08:00

THE day has arrived!!!!! Rather early, too. I woke at 3:30 and haven't been able to go back to sleep - it may be a LONG day!

We are now mere hours away from meeting our newest little one. I am consumed with wondering what she has been told, what she will be thinking. Just 6 years old and her world is about to be totally upended and forever changed.

Will you please join me in praying that God calms her little heart, to give her peace in knowing that she will forever be cherished from this day forward? Pray that He guide me in doing and saying just the right things that my sweet daughter needs?

Hong Kong Train Station

2011-12-10T16:49:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Heidi here, we are about to board our train to Guangzhou. Hong Kong was incredible!

\mama\d here now. free internet here so we are taking advantage of it quickly. gotta run - all is well - I am SO ready to meet our girlie!!!! TOMORROW!!!!

Hong Kong

2011-12-09T13:56:00.001-08:00

After a grueling 28 hour day, we landed in Hong Kong, reached our hotel and closed the door. Whew!
Our hotel is more than sufficient, but unfortunately located a good distance away from the places that we want to visit, so we are becoming proficient at buses and MTR (the local train system).
Yesterday's adventure was a walking tour of the famous bazaar's that everyone visits. We walked through temples with 8 day long incense spirals, we walked through the jade market, the markets with clothing, purses, shoes, paintings, kitchen utensils, toys, vegetables, meat, unknown plant/animal pieces with unknown uses - medicinal? food? I really don't want to know?, the goldfish market, and so much more that I can't even remember!

The weather is cooler than we anticipated, so we each had to purchase a coat.
Unfortunately, the curse that apparently strikes me each time I visit China struck again. Every time I travel here, just under the 24 hour mark, I become sick. I thought that I had beat it this time - I was feeling great. Then I asked Heidi if she felt the floor moving beneath her feet and was met with a puzzled look. Of course everyone was getting off of work at that same time, so we were miles away from the hotel amongst a throng of thousands of people trying to get home after work on a Friday night. I made it back to the hotel without embarrassing myself, but I held that plastic bag close to me, just knowing that I would have to use it at any moment. After several doses of Pepto and some much needed deep sleep, I think that I will be ok today. I am still a little dizzy and not as energetic/enthusiastic as I started out yesterday, but if history is going to repeat itself, I won't have a repeat episode for the rest of the journey.
I found myself, as I was walking the streets of bustling HongKong, searching the people for someone who is blind. How would my daughter look on these streets, excitedly chattering with her school mates, her cane tapping from left to right, acting as her eyes to give her the necessary information to navigate. I can see her upturned face, with that infectious grin, teasing her girlfriends about something that happened at school earlier that day. Skipping along with her free arm tucked through her best friends. But no. Not a single one. No. She is tucked away where no one has to see that she isn't perfect - according to them. Ha! They are the ones that are losing out on this deal. Her mama and papa are going to allow this little sprout to blossom and to show the world her perfection as God's creation. In two days. In just two more days, I will meet our newest daughter. I will finally be able to caress her, to kiss her, to hug her, to murmur mama loves into her ear, to laugh with her, to show her what a beautiful world God has given us. I will be able to learn from my daughter. To grieve with my daughter, the loss of the only life that she has ever known and to welcome her into her new life as a member of a family that cherishes her. Two days.

Itinerary

2011-12-02T16:57:00.000-08:00

We have our itinerary!!!!!!

WEDNESDAY

December 7 Depart Portland @ 8:00am

Arrive Hong Kong @ 11:00pm Dec 8

SUNDAY Train from HONG KONG - GUANGZHOU

December 11

MONDAY Ji-Ji's ADOPTION DAY!!!

December 12 Begin Adoption Process

THURSDAY Medical Appointment, Complete Consulate Paperwork

December 15

SATURDAY Return to Medical Center to have the TB test read

December 17

MONDAY U.S. Consulate Appointment at: 10:00am

December 19

TUESDAY

December 20 Train from GUANGZHOU – HONG KONG

WEDNESDAY

December 21 Depart Hong Kong @ 8:00am

Arrive Portland @ 7:35am

Yessssir--eeeee Sir - the "T" is here!!!!!! We are going to CHINA!

2011-11-30T11:47:00.000-08:00

Our Travel Approval came today! I'll fill you in as soon as we know more details, but for sure and for certain now, we are SO close to having our sweet JiJi home!

2011-11-28T23:53:00.001-08:00

Greetings family, friends, and fans of The Crew! MamaD has asked me to be a guest blogger as I will be joining her on the last leg of this roller coaster journey to get to Ji-Ji. So, instead of wondering who the dingle berry in the photo is next to their little sweet pea in China, you'll know it is MamaD's travel companion. A pleasure to meet/blog with you. If you are involved in any way, shape, or form with this wonderful family, then you must also be wonderful too! If I should be so lucky to be an honorary "Aunt" to these girls then you may want to know some basics about me.

For starters, my name is Heidi and I'm a Junior at a local university. I'm studying Social Sciences to later pursue grad school to become qualified as an academic adviser or teacher at the college level. I met MamaD and MissE while working at the amphitheater (and later IBoy too.) My dog, Penny is 5 and she might just be the most spoiled Cocker Spaniel west of the Mississippi. Well, maybe not more than Oprah Winfrey's Cocker's but... pretty close, I'm sure. I'm from a small town in Oregon. I currently live in SW Washington and work at a popular coffee house as a barista.

Most recently however, I've been spending time in town a couple of hours away, where my love, Brandon, has moved to for a job. WARNING: I am a cheesy, hopeless romantic! He's a chemist and is handsome, respectful, and sweet taboot! I am thankful and feel lucky every day to have met him. Alright, alright, I'll stop. ;)

Like:

the color purple
the beach
painting
clam digging
reading
coffee
softball
volleyball
Italian food
kayaking
wine tasting
crafts
traveling
snowboarding
peacock feathers
french vanilla, lavender candles

Dislike:

brussel sprouts
the color "mustard yellow"
rude, ignorant people
snakes
spiders
dusting
hitting my "funny bone"
forgetting things on my grocery list (What's the point of having the darn list!?)
inconsiderate cell phone users

That concludes your crash course on this Heidi. Thanks for reading and stay tuned for our upcoming adventures!

TA and Turkey Talk

2011-11-27T14:39:00.000-08:00

We were thankful to be able to spend Thanksgiving with Mom and Grandma (101 now!).

IBoy's jaw was still slightly swollen, but he didn't let it stop him from feasting!

The girls are patiently waiting to start the feast!

Dad's not so sure, hey - the food's getting cold!

Enough turkey. Now the tough talk. NO TA yet! I am so longing for it to come in. Do you see the green "Adi" listed? That is us - this is from a site that tracks timing of each step of the adoption process. This was from early last week - I believe there are close to 200 families listed in all phases of the journey. Since this was taken, there were actually several families below us who received their TA. We have been (not so) patiently waiting since 11/2. The average time to receive it is 18 days, but recently many lucky families have received theirs much more quickly than 18 days. Most of the families who shared our same timeline (up to this point) have already met their children in China.

I know that He has perfect timing. I do know that, it is just SO hard for my heart to trust that He knows best! It shouldn't be, and there are brief moments throughout each day when I am calm and at peace with His plan. And then, the human mama part of me takes control and I weep and fret.

In then end - I have no choice but to submit to His timing - after all, I have ZERO control over when it comes! Our agency has promised to look into why we, and several other families with our agency, have not yet received the Travel Approval. God willing, we will have good news in the next few days!

Dog Burgers

2011-11-21T16:25:00.001-08:00

Dad went to make us some yummy burger last night, but we only had hot dog buns to go with them. Presto, change-o - we had dog burgers instead! But of course we still have the four legged mongrels running about.

IBoy is not feeling so wise these days. Friday found him sleeping in the oral surgeon's chair while all four of his beloved wisdom teeth were extracted. He is now getting tired of pureed dinners, but his mouth isn't.

We began our forest habitat unit in school today - the girls made raccoon masks. Yes, I know that raccoons don't have yellow noses, but don't say it too loudly in front of the students who I had to convince that we were making a distant cousin of the typical raccoon. They weren't convinced.

The White Stuff

2011-11-20T18:19:00.000-08:00

You wake up in the morning to S.N.O.W.!!!!

I was lucky to catch her as she was headed out the door. In her undergarments. I barely managed to convince her to at least get her boots and sweatshirt on!

Zabi zaniness!

Zabi, on the left, is supposed to be a princess. I have no idea who Chicka is supposed to be!

test

2011-11-13T09:43:00.000-08:00

While we wait on word of our travel approval, I thought I better do a test run on posting here from an email post. So, here we go!

Mumblings

2011-10-31T22:21:00.000-07:00

Or rather, grumblings of nothing going on. Hmmm - maybe I shouldn't complain 'eh?

Absolutely LOVING our new math curriculum - Right Start. Although we are still in review mode - both the girls and myself are enjoying the depth that it covers and the fun games we are playing within it. It is an abacus based method, so we are hoping that once JiJi gets going in school that she will be able to use the same program.

Yes, even the bigs still enjoy the pumpkin carving. Of course, they wouldn't get their share of the goodies if they didn't fully participate, hee hee!

New Pictures

2011-10-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

Woo hoo! We were blessed recently with some new photos of our sweetie waiting for us!

Hmm. Looks like a few table manners are in order. I am happy to see that she has a good appetite, though!

I could be wrong, but I am thinking that this girl has S.P.U.N.K.!!!!! It appears that perhaps someone's foot is on the other end of this teeter totter, and in my mind, I hear my daughter squealing with glee and daring to go faster/higher! Oh, yes - she is my kind'a girlie! Even that boy cut hair is growin' on me!

Our Article 5 should be picked up next Tuesday, 11/2. From there it is delivered to the CCAA, from whence the much awaited Travel Approval is issued. I hate to set my hopes too high, but recently there have been a number of those approvals come through in under two weeks. Actual departure depends on when the Consulate Appointment (the process of being sworn in as an American citizen) can be scheduled. Departure ranges from less than a week to several weeks after the TA. I have already told our agency that we are willing to leave ASAP.

We, you say? Just who is "we"? Well, as finances are tight, we realized that only one of the family could afford to travel this time. Dad decided that the representative to get'er done was Mom. I didn't have any hesitation about heading off solo, but Dad was NOT happy about that. I would like to introduce you to my journey sharing partner, but I guess to be polite, I should ask for their permission first. So, I will save that for my next news flash!

Or NOT

2011-10-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

What I really (did NOT) mean to say is that our paperwork will be dropped off to be processed NEXT week. I know it is only a week delay, but it feels like forever.

On the bright side of life, I turned in my last assignment in my Grade 2 - Contracted Braille class. In braille, there are two levels to learn - the basic and then the second one is similar to braille shorthand. I even managed to pass with an A- !!!!

I now have one assignment left to turn in on my abacus course and I'll be done with that class as well!

Today we went to the fire station open house and had some fun.

And then we went to the annual Fall Fest at one of the local churches. Too much fun!

NVC Cable is OFF!!!!!

2011-10-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Petitioner,

The State Department's National Visa Center has recently received your approval Form I-800, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative. This letter is to inform you that your petition has been forwarded to the appropriate visa-issuing post where the adoption interview will take place.

These are the words that we were waiting to see! Our agency will FedEx this note to the the Embassy in China, a representative will personally carry it to be processed and we wait 20 days for it's official approval, in the form of "Article 5". Once this is issued, the final big wait is on for the travel approval, which lately has been being issued two weeks later!

Do you realize what this means?????? We could be leaving as soon as November 16!!!!!!

2008, we traveled home just one week before Easter.

2009, we traveled home on Christmas Day.

2011, maybe we'll be in China for Thanksgiving, but home well before 12/25!

Wowzers! FOR REAL!!!!!

Of course a girl doesn't want to get her hopes up too high, cuz high is a long way to fall if the could doesn't work out. The flip side of this, of course, is we could be leaving much later. Right now, please don't burst my bubble of excitement, k?

A Winner!!!!

2011-10-01T10:54:00.000-07:00

The drum roll, please!

Miss Zabi-Chu up to bat - the pressure is on to draw the winner of the iPod -

I don't think it was really that painful, but who knows?

And the winner is . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BRIDGET!!!!!

Thanks to EVERYONE who has contributed not only monetarily, but just as importantly helping to pray our daughter home.

Dad is working extra hours, we had a successful garage sale, I am still making and selling blankets, and working hours when they are available to me to s-l-o-w-l-y bring in those final figures needed to bring our daughter home. I have every confidence that God will show us the way where we cannot see it yet!

Approval!

2011-09-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

I800 Approval, that would be! On to the next step of waiting to bring our darlin' home.

Here is a quick breakdown of "averages". I am curious how our time frame will fit into the average!

I800 to NVC Cable - average 9 days - possible Oct. 5
NVC Cable to NVC Letter - 1 day - possible Oct. 6
NVC Letter to Article 5 - 19 days - possible Oct.25
Article 5 to TA - 18 days - possible Nov 12
TA to CA - 34 days - Dec 17

I would explain the acronyms to those of you who don't know what they stand for, but in reality, even explaining them gets us no closer to understanding them. I just try to go with the flow. Yeah. Right. Suffice it to say that they are milestones that each adoptive family lives and breathes to see the progression of. Ahem. Obsessively. Just sayin'.

Actual travel date is generally about 10-14 days before CA and we should be able to fly home the day of CA or the next day.

I am hoping and praying to beat the average. We flew home on Dec 25 just two years ago, so I really would rather not do that one again. Kinda threw all of us off kilter.

So, I'll keep ya posted!

Nearly Too Late

2011-09-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

Just in case you wanted a chance to win that sparklin' new iPod, there are just a few short days left to purchase your ticket!

We will have the drawing on the 30th - only four days away!

Just a heads up - only 6 tickets have sold - so you have a super good chance of YOUR lucky number being drawn!

For your convenience, you may use the ChipIn on the sidebar - or contact me directly! I would love to send it to YOU!

Life is but a Blur

2011-09-21T16:42:00.000-07:00

Recently, that is how I feel! Life is good, but, oh, my heaven's sake alive - it is blurring by!

With two grown on their own, two in college, two in kindergarten whom I teach, one waiting for me across the world, getting ready to teach two Friday School classes, finishing up canning/jamming/freezing/drying, working every now and then, fussing over the durned poultry flock, putting in the wood for the year, finishing up my two classes, plus the never ending daily stuff, huuuuuuh (big breath), the days are passing me by in a blur!

Nothing exciting to chat about, sorry. Couldn't resist sharing my youngest tickle bunnies with ya, though!

Prayers for you, my bloggy friends, for wherever you are in your blur. May your night be full of peace and rest. May tomorrow bloom fresh and bright for you, full of yet to be realized joy.

We are Goin' to a Concert - Will YOU Join Us?????

2011-09-16T22:26:00.000-07:00

Show Hope Presents the Songs & Stories Tour

Show Hope is the title sponsor for this fall’s “Songs & Stories” tour! In a unique songwriter’s night experience rarely seen outside Nashville, Steven Curtis Chapman will share the stories that inspired him to write both his current hits and songs that have entertained for decades. He will be sharing the stage with acclaimed and emerging artists, Andrew Peterson and Josh Wilson. The tour will also be a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Show Hope and become a Show Hope sponsor to impact the lives of orphans around the world!

In addition, a limited number of passes for the fan experience called “Soundcheck and Stories” are available. This special pre-show experience includes a Q&A with SCC, an acoustic performance, and an exclusive signed poster for attendees.

The Songs & Stories tour kicks off on September 29 in Indianapolis and runs through November 3 in San Bernadino, CA. We look forward to seeing grant families and meeting new and long-time Show Hope sponsors on the road this fall! For tickets, visitstevencurtischapman.com.

9.29 Indianapolis, IN
9.30 Cordova, TN
10.6 Lancaster, PA
10.7 Milford, CT
10.8 Barre, VT
10.9 Shrewsbury, MA
10.13 St. Peters, MO
10.14 Valparaiso, IN
10.15 Pewaukee, WI
10.16 Rochester, MN
10.20 Alma, AR
10.21 Lincoln, NE
10.22 Littleton, CO
10.25 Eagle, ID
10.26 Twin Falls, ID
10.28 Vancouver, WA
11.1 Roseville, CA
11.2 Valencia, CA
11.3 San Bernadino, CA

Additional dates may be added. Dates subject to change.

http://blog.showhope.org/2011/08/04/show-hope-presents-the-songs-stories-tour/

Connections

2011-09-07T11:15:00.000-07:00

God has no cell phone,but he is my favorite contact.. He has no Facebook, but he is my best friend... He doesn't have Twitter, but I still follow him.... He has no Internet but we stay connected!!

The Phone Call

2011-09-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I had a surprise email from the orphanage with some new pictures of our JiJi.

And today I received a phone call from our agency.

OUR LOA/LSC (the official approval from Ch*na) arrived today!!!!!! The next wait is for the immigration final approval.

We are told that we should be traveling in 2 months!

Would you like a new ipod Touch????

2011-08-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

You would?????

Well, I have one for you!

A kind donor has generously given us one to use for our adoption fund!!!!

I just added a chipin to the sidebar and if you feel so inclined, for every $10 donated to help bring our sweetie home, we are offering you a chance to own a brand spankin' new 8 GB, 4th generation ipod Touch!

No fingerprints yet!

Perhaps someone has been nice this year and would love to see a little apple logo peeking out of their stocking??? I'll leave it to your imagination of who might best enjoy it!

We will randomly select a winner on September 30th.

Oh, yes she can!

2011-08-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

Miss Zabi took off on her bicycle like a pro, after about 5 minutes of experimenting without the training wheels! I guess now it is time to move up to a bigger bike for her!

Heather worked for a long time with Chicka. As you can see from her body posture, she is terrified. I imagine having no depth perception, riding a bike would be a pretty scary endeavor. It was so sweet, though - she ran up to her sister and said "you are AWESOME!!!!!".

Yes, I do believe these girls need a sister. Soni put up with them for awhile, but wasn't overly pleased. Ahem - do you see the tiara?

We went to the zoo, zoo, zoo - how about you, you, you?

2011-08-01T18:17:00.000-07:00

Ooops - just couldn't resist a little Raffi, there!

Actually we did go to the zoo, and if you are wondering, don't bother visiting the Portland, Oregon zoo. We went last year and were disappointed, but thought it might be better this year.

Not.

None of us really realized just how big polar bears are until we had this visual!

The unenthusiastic crew.

Miss Zabi learned how to play rock, paper, scissors recently and really had fun playing it with ye-ye while we waited for our ice cream.

I think that PETA must reign there or something. Don't get me wrong - I don't approve of mistreating animals, but for Heaven's sake, people. SOME animals in sight would be nice!

I can't remember what these monkeys were called, but they were odd looking. I guess their tails re-shape to form a cape when they fly from tree to tree!

The mama and her youngest littles.

MissE sat in the seat in front of us on the train. She was giggling and snapping photo after photo - I thought of Chicka. Uh huh. I never saw the hunka-hunka sitting in the seat behind us. Yeah, right, Sheba!

This is what I thought she was taking a picture of! Chicka wanted to ride the train SO bad - then she fell into such a deep sleep that she, uh, drooled! She will never forgive me for this public photo when she is older, I know!

Tick, tick, tick, tick

2011-07-31T16:14:00.000-07:00

I know that I shouldn't be antsy about the wait yet. It has only been just under 3 weeks that we have been waiting for the coveted next step, THE Letter of Seeking Confirmation. I know I need to let the timing rest in His hands. I know it.

But it is hard.

So hard knowing that my daughter wakes each morning without a hug. Knowing that she goes to sleep each night without a kiss from me and a blessing on her forehead (she does get plenty of prayers from across the sea, though!).

Their proud creation - an ice cream ladybug!

I couldn't resist taking this photo - the girly girl with farm boots!

Yup - the first tooth loss!

I have made myself play the patient prayer warrior game. Every time my mind wanders into whining at her not being here, I turn it around and say a prayer for her protection, a prayer for a family's heart to be opened to adoption, and a prayer for all the world's orphans.

Chicka wanted to wear her Korean dress the other day. She then proceeded to pick up her guitar and start singing and playing. I think we really need to get her a lefty guitar!

No, the children don't have any toys. They have to go to the chicken pen and find an old corn cob to use.

Our newest addition - a blue maran. She will lay dark "chocolate" colored eggs - I can't wait!

Peeps 'n Fears

2011-07-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

We just hatched out 3 wee chicks. I know that 2 of them are cochins, but I can't figure out what this little one is! Any suggestions?

I bought 4 new layers, 1 cochin and 3 were supposed to be wyandottes that layed blue eggs. Well, I didn't know, because I have never had wyandottes before. Guess what - they are supposed to lay off-white eggs. As are the cochins.

Hmm - I have blue/green eggs (like Americaunas) (which these hens look like :-) and tan eggs. Now here is the confusing part. 1 cochin and 3 unknowns (guessing Americuanas) and I usually get 2 brownish-tan-off white eggs and 1 blue/green egg. One chicken laying 2 eggs a day and 3 chickens laying 1 egg a day? Something seems odd.

Oh, yes. Throw in one maran rooster here taking his manly liberties with my girls (imagine that!)("mama - that rooster is fighting the hens!" "uh, yup, you rotten guy - be nice!"). I think the chicks that just hatched were fertilized from where I purchased them. I think. But - from what breed of rooster? Ha! The mystery chicks of the month!

I figured the girls needed a zip-line. I tried to come up with one for them out of rope, a caribiner and some PVC pipe. Uh - failure.

While I was trying to figure out a better zip-line, the girls entertained themselves with some scrap plywood and a skateboard. Yee-haw!

I remembered that IBoy had an old zip-line in the north forty that he said that he didn't use anymore and I was welcome to relocate it. What he didn't mention to me that it was affixed to a tree. WAY UP in a tree.

Have I ever told you that my knight in shining armor had to rescue me from putting up Christmas lights on our one story garage gutter one year? I climbed the ladder and got one leg hoisted up to the roof, thinking I would just edge myself along the edge of the not very steeply slanted roof to install the lights. Ahem. I was SO afraid that I couldn't move!

Do you know what the meaning of acrophobia is? Uh huh. Grand Canyon. Sure, kiddos - let's hike a ways down the canyon! Uh - about 20 feet into the hike, they couldn't pry me off of the wall. I just KNEW I was going to fall!

So. I am determined to relocate this durn zip-line for my girlies. In reality, it wasn't THAT far up the ladder, but this is what it looked like to me as I began my ascent. "Just DO IT, ya dummy!" And guess what? I DID it! My knees were a'wobblin' when I got down, but I DID it!

I even got it up, but I wasn't able to get it quite tight enough, so I guess I'll need a little muscle help with that when my knight in shining armor comes home!

Just Like Us, Mama?

2011-07-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

Last night after bedtime stories, songs and prayers - just as I was leaving the bedroom, Chicka says to me ....

"Mama?"

"Yes, lovie?"

"When you go to Ch*na to bwing Ji-Ji home?"

"As soon as Ch*na says I can go."

"Oh. Just like us, Mama?"

"Uh - a little girl like you, sweetie? When Ch*na told me I could come get you?

"No, Mama - a ofin gull (orphan girl), mama, wif no Mom or Dad."

I got choked up so fast that I couldn't answer for a bit. Our children put ideas together so fast - sometimes correctly, sometimes not so.

Yes, we have talked using the word orphan, but never directly saying that they were orphans. Yes, they know that they have a Mom and a Dad in Ch*na who couldn't take care of them, that is why God chose us to be a family together.

Somehow though, coming from MY daughter's mouth, it hurt my mama's heart so much that MY sweetie knows that she was once an orphan.

Thankfully, an orphan no longer.

elbow, elbow, wrist, wrist, wrist

2011-07-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

We had our lil-teeny-tiny town parade last night. The girls rode/walk on our church's float inviting children to participate in our VBS "Panda-Mania" next week. I took the easy assignment this year and volunteered to do game time.

Zabi and Chicka really enjoyed pitching the candy into their pockets to the crowd!

Yes, welcome to our weather. Mid July and we didn't even reach 70 yesterday - we even had a few sprinkles, thus the long paints, sweatshirt and Panda raincoat requirement!

We also found out that we are now LID, which means that Ch*na has our file logged into their system! Now we wait for our LSC (Letter of Seeking Confirmation) from them, which has been taking a current average of about 6 weeks.

Random Summer Fun & Exciting News

2011-07-07T13:37:00.000-07:00

What dahhling fingernails you have, grandmama!

A Christmas ornament, taken apart and beautifully applied to the fingertips.

Our first roast in the deck BBQ pit.

And the news, you say??????

We are DTC today!!!! That means the countdown has really begun! Grandpa - you better get your passport in order, we are goin' to China!

Masquerade

2011-06-16T08:59:00.000-07:00

The teens attended a masquerade last night. Unfortunately, they were in a rush to leave and I was only able to get these two quick snaps - not good ones, at that.

They did have a REALLY good time!

Jumping Bees

2011-06-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

Well, jumping and bees, anyway. We went to a friend's house after church today to learn more about beekeeping. While we were there, the girls spotted their trampoline and the interest in the hives was lost.

IBoy was fitted out in an interesting get-up, to say the least!

An additional box is added to an existing hive.

Checking their production.

And jumping!

Doin' the job

2011-06-10T08:37:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU, Mrs. Pygo - you are doing exactly what we brought you home for!

You'll have to excuse the bed heads - they couldn't wait to get outside with their new charges after rest time! Unfortunately, these critters weren't "part of the family", like ours were when we had goats before. They are more than somewhat resistant to relaxing and enjoying treats and petting. We'll keep working on them!

This little girl finally calmed down enough that she wasn't straining against her collar. Amazingly, Chicka stuck with her and I think they both enjoyed the interaction!

Addition to the Family x 3!!!!

2011-06-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

Not what you were expecting, eh? You have to agree that they are pretty darn cute, though!

We decided that with the price of gas, it just cost too much in fuel and time to mow the fields twice a week all through the summer. So, we figured we would bring a few caprine friends back into our fold! This group is a mom with her 3 month old twins; they are a pygora/nigerian dwarf cross.

For the past few days they have been busily decimating the first field to everyone's delight! We will have to wait for the next crop of kids to resume our milking routine. We are all looking forward to fresh chevre cheese, caramel and ice cream treats as soon as possible.

MERTS

2011-06-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

Yup, that's my baby boy. Why is it that your youngest child always retains the title of your baby? He is no baby. He is a mature, responsible, delightful young man who loves God. He has so many plans for his future. Son, I am so proud of the man you are becoming!

Dad went to observe him in action yesterday. He and his classmates in Fire Science Academy are busy with the end of year culminating event in Astoria.

Basic Marine Fire Fighting is a two-day USCG-approved course that meets international standards and includes the theory of fire, fire prevention principles, fire detection systems, self-contained breathing apparatus, search, rescue emergency egress and live fire fighting.

Cheeeeeeze

2011-06-02T15:38:00.000-07:00

One pose. One snap. "Are you happy with this one, Miss Zabi-Chu?" "Oh, yes!"

Ahem. "This pose, Mom".

"Now this one, Mom."

"Mom, take a picture, Mom."

"This one, too, Mom."

"Mom, one more pose."

"MOM!"

"ENOUGH, dear child!"

USCIS and new fabric

2011-06-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Applicant/Petitioner:

Your USCIS application/petition has been received and routed to the National Benefit Center for processing. Within 7 - 10 days by standard mail you will receive your official Receipt Notice (Form I-797) with your Receipt Number . . . . .

That is the email that I woke up to! Yipeeeeee - here we go!

Go where do you say?

Have you ever in your life seen a more perfect smile than this?

And to help getting to that tremendous smile, a new blanket and some additional fabric choices for blankets to choose from!

And here is the photographer of the day, Miss Zabi-Chu a'peekin' through!

Two Awesome Giveaways for that Special Child in Your Life!

2011-05-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

I am excited to share with you a new site that I just found. In addition to being a cool site, they just happen to be hosting two giveaways right now.

Please take a moment and meander their site and check them out!

Wonder Baby

Blankets are Baaaaaack!

2011-05-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

Yup, sure enough.

The mama is going into blanket production once again!

The first 5 have just rolled off the assembly line, ready for your cuddling pleasure!

Each cozy delight measures approximately 45"x60" and is lovingly crafted from flannels, cotton knits or a "minky" style fabric.

You won't be disappointed with your blanket, if past recipients are any measure. I have teens still thanking me for their blankets that they have used since they were babes.

The price, you ask? Each blanket costs me from $15-$20 in supplies and nearly $10 to mail. I will leave the monetary decision up to your heart. Remember that each penny that is sent to me helps transform an orphan into a beloved son or daughter.

Won't you please be a part of an orphan's life?

Feel free to contact me directly to place your order or if you have any questions!

dlmcnew@wwestsky.net

Now Guess How Many?????

2011-05-15T21:38:00.000-07:00

Haaaaaapy Birthday to me!

Yes, I am! Zabi-Chu is SIX!!!!

Seems like Chicka is really studying that 6 in anticipation of hers to come!

Can't you just feel that joy???

The Invisible Mom!

2011-05-14T15:35:00.001-07:00

THE INVISIBLE MOM

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?' Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The Invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more! 'Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this?'

Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer,'What number is the Disney Channel?' I"m a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.' Some days I'm a crystal ball. 'Where's my other sock? Where's my phone? What's for dinner?' I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history, music and literature- but now, they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going, she's going...she's gone!

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. She had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when she turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription; 'With admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.'

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work; 1) No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. 2) These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. 3) They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. 4) The passion of their building fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A story of legend in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof, no one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.' I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. NO act of kindness youve done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, no Cub Scout meeting, no last minute errand is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.'

I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for 3 hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd build a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, he'd say, 'You're gonna love it there...'

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible mothers.

I took this from a friends blog and wanted to share it will my blogging friends as well!

To Be 101 Years Old

2011-05-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

For real - 101 years old!

Grandma turned 101 this week. What must it be like to have seen the world change so much before your very eyes? Sometimes I feel like the world is changing so fast that I can't keep up - can imagine what it must have been like in 1910?

For Grandma's birthday, she wanted to visit the house where she was born. A cousin contacted the present owners and we were invited to tour the VERY restored home. It was beautiful inside and outside - they have done an amazing job.

original "lace" window

Mom and Grandma

Dancing and singing are the delight of one of our daughters every moment of every day. The other daughter usually goes along, but mostly has other ideas brewing. Fortunately, Dad will generally pitch in as a partner!

Frustration

2011-03-08T17:05:00.000-08:00

I am SO FRUSTRATED!!!!! I REALLLLLLLY dislike how blogger updated posting. I think that is half the reason I don't do it anymore - loading the photos and typing text is SO DIFFICULT and cumbersome I get exasperated!

Before I start screaming, even though these pictures are out of order, I am putting a caption on them and uploading it. I give up trying to figure out how the durn program puts the pictures where it wants NOT where I want them and then I can't move them! Grrrrrrrr!

Inara catching snowflakes.

Inara after a few minutes of goofy medicine!

Dad and Chloe pretending they got a
dose of goofy medicine!

Inara engrossed in a library book at the school. How could she have grown up so fast?????

Inara and Chloe with their snowman - he lasted for nearly a week before he left his scarf laying on the ground.

Chloe posing pretty in the snow.

Ian's 17th birthday bash dinner - a simple burger and fries. To serve 18!!!!!

His little bit of burger. Yikes!

Nothing Much Afoot

2011-02-06T12:51:00.000-08:00

Wow. Exciting. NOT - which can be a good thing, right? Nothing much going on. Everyone is doing well - besides an annoying cold that has been passed around.

What a WAY COOL Daddy to let his girls dress him up like a princess AND then dance! (and to let Mama take pictures!!!! - AND to post them so the world can see!!!!!)

Not very good photos of our youngest sweeties, but I wanted to share them with you. They are wearing the clothes that they had on when we first held them in our arms. Surprisingly, Inara was still able to wear her clothes (minus the shoes!), nearly 3 years later! At just over a year ago, Chloe has not grown a tremendous amount, but she sure is a happier little girl!

Nero went to the dance at school last night - handsome dude, isn't he?

The girls decided that they wanted to make cupcakes to have a Chinese New Year party. So - they have planned the party. We are going to drink tea out of beautiful tea cups from China, eat cupcakes and play some games that they have organized. Should be a hoot!

Quick Milk Magic Straws

2011-01-14T14:45:00.000-08:00

OK guys - this has GOT to be the COOLEST product since sliced bread!!!!!

All Natural: No Artificial Flavors, Preservatives or Colors
100% Gluten Free
Low Sugar Content
100% Lactose Free
Zero Fat; Zero Cholesterol

http://milkstraws.com/nutrition/

Really - look it up and order some - they are YUMMY!

I am trying to see if we can do a fundraiser at Friday School with these - I'll let you know!

Will it work????

2011-01-12T09:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. The blog is now private. I guess this is a test to see if it will work this way now - please leave a comment if your invitation worked and you can see this! I know some of my friends had commented that they wanted to be a part of this, but didn't leave an email - and that is the only way I had to invite them. SO, if someone was left out - many apologies - I did what I could! Let me know if you know of someone who was left out by accident, please!

Nothing exciting to report - which in our case, is usually good!

We had to all change into our jammies to take our Christmas Eve photo op!

Of course, Dad needed a little help opening one of his Christmas gifts.

Fun in the snow.

Nero ended up not being upright for most of the day, but he sure had fun!

Once Inara decided to actually try the sled out, she had a blast.

Ian surprised even himself, I think, that he was able to do some pretty awesome moves on his snowboard. He really wants to go to snowboard camp coming up next month in a really big way now!

Miss Daredevil Chuie couldn't go fast enough!

And then we come to the true wild one. As you can see, Erinn approached that huge jump of maybe 1 foot with anticipation and aggression. Uh, NOT! She actually landed it. For a second!

Our friend Michelle, who lives in China, sent two adorable jackets for the girls.

Erinn assembled a "doctor kit" for Chuie's Christmas gift. It has been a huge hit with Chuie, but the rest of us are not so enthusiastic more recently. there is only so much blood in each of us to be drawn. Fortunately, Joanie was a good sport and let the girls doctor her for awhile. I do notice a bit of a forced smile below, though! Grin and bear it?????

A Time to Change

2010-12-28T11:56:00.000-08:00

Although not a prolific poster, no doubt you have noticed that I have not posted at all recently. It began to bother me knowing that complete strangers could look at us and see what we have been up to. Like we usually are up to nefarious escapades all the time!!!

At any rate, I am now taking the blog private. All of you, my dear friends, are not strangers though. I have set a date of January 10th to change over to private settings. SO, if you would like to peek into our beyond exciting family life (ha!), you need to send me an email or post a comment that you would like to be included in my exclusive club (hee hee!) before that date.

Abundant blessings to you and yours for the 2011 year!

Basketball and Bell Ringin' Times

2010-12-16T23:57:00.000-08:00

Nutcracker Ballet and Christmas Cookies

2010-12-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Grandma treated Chicka,Zabi and a neighbor friend to tickets to the local Nutcracker ballet performance. Not only did the girls REALLY enjoy the ballet,

but Zabi was the lucky recipient of Clara's tiara! When her name was called, she had a grin on her face the size of Mars and couldn't get up the stairs to the stage fast enough! So much for my shy little girl!

Don't you just LOVE the dresses that the girls are wearing? You guessed it, Grandma made them! I am so lucky to have a talented, generous woman that I can proudly call Mom. Thanks, Mom, I love you!

Miss Joanie came up for a quick visit, so of course we had to make cookies! Ahem, Joanie - the chocolate chips are supposed to go ON the COOKIES, NOT in the mouth!

and what is that on her shirt?????? someone thought it might be excess oral liquids, but alas, it really was just an extra splash of water from just having done the dishes!

yup - pictures do the process justice - she had that much fun!

uh - Joanie - you have a contender for chocolate chips!

proud cookie makers!

Road Trip

2010-07-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

MissE and I embarked on her higher education orientation week. What a whirlwind those things are - I had NO idea! We started out at 5 AM after being up till after midnight the night before with a dog emergency. Neither of us were terribly chipper, but we WERE ready for an adventure!

Along the way, we came across a variety of funny bone signs.

Flies???? Do they come with the food? The beer? As a side?

Nice to know where we can come with that special itch! Or is this the place to come when we need an itch? Hmmmm.

While at the actual orientation, we were so busy that we didn't get any photos. Our heads are swimming with all the things still to take care of, to pack, to do - all in a mere two weeks!

On the way home, we stopped at a flour mill museum. They boasted having a bat resident, which coincidentally shares the same name as our exchange student due to arrive next week! Once MissE got past the thought of "what happens if this little creature decides to wake up and fly into my face", she managed to get close enough for a photo op! It was really cute the way his little ears perked up and moved around when we spoke.

The requisite goofball tourist shot.

Something Yummy and Something Difficult

2010-07-23T16:13:00.000-07:00

Let's start with yummy, although not NEARLY as important. I recently needed to contribute a dessert to a potluck and, as luck would have it, had nothing on hand to whip something up. When you live as far away from the store as we do, the last thing you want to do is jump in the car and run to the store. SO, I started rummaging through my pantry to create something. What I came up with has become the much asked for, EASY and fast dessert! I'll share it with you!

shhh - don't tell - I rummage the shelves of the freight damaged CHEAPO stores and stock my pantry! I think this Angel Food mix cost me all of $0.49! All you add is water to it and whip it up nicely. I use home canned pears, but I imagine you could use any fruit that you have on hand.

In a baking pan, melt 1/2 cube of butter and a couple of good squirts of corn syrup. Sprinkle on about 1/2 to 3/4 cup brown sugar and mix it all up sugary sweet.

Next, chop up as much fruit as you can stand and add that to the gooey stuff on the bottom of the pan, and top it all off with the fluffy cake batter.

Throw the mess into a pre-heated to 350 degree oven and let it bake for around 30-35 minutes. The top should be golden brown with a few splits in the top.

Remove from the oven and slide a knife or spatula around the edges to loosen the baked scrumptiousness from the sides of the pan and invert onto a waiting cookie sheet or proper sized plate.

Cut and serve for all to enjoy! The texture is somewhere between a pound cake and sponge cake - terrifically yummy!

Of course, you have to have a little help to clean up all those messy dishes, right?

Now for the difficult part of the post. IBoy left today and won't be back for just over a month :-( I'm sure that you can imagine, or have experience, in letting your youngest son go off on an adult adventure, but I will appreciate all of your prayers for his safety and my composure until he returns home to his ever-lovin' momma. He was accepted into a YouthCorps program that will be working (hard labor) in the backcountry. He said: "heck, Mom, I would be doing the same thing with my friends around home anyway - I may as well do it with this group and get paid for doing it!" Gotta love the logic!

IBoy laden with all his gear that he will need for the next month.

And now I will close with a photo of my two eldest blessings still at home.

Lovin' Summer

2010-07-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

Ah, the warm days filled with outdoor activities. Yup - gotta love 'em - God has made some beautiful things that He has given us!

The side garden flowers are bloomin' ever so purty.

MissE and I have been working on a project. I'll tease you a little and show you how two of the three projects began and I'll see if you can guess what the final product is going to be!

We were sitting on the concrete pad painting to our hearts content, when MissE leapt about a hundred feet into the air, screeching that an ant had traveled to parts unmentionable. She raced off into the pole barn to give the little insect a hasty good-bye while I readied the camera.

HA! Caught her!

And of course, how could we get any work done at all without the two best helper/getter-in-the wayers on earth????

I've been able to fill in with a bit greenery in the courtyard and make it a little more inviting. Here is a peek for you from the front of the house andthen what you would see as if you were gently swinging on the porch swing, with an icy mint julep in your hand. Probably with a plate of fancy bon-bons next to you, too. You know - with all that leisure time that we all have each day.

Thought you might want to see a typical dinner table after Chicka gets done. Uh huh.

And you can't see the floor, or the chair, or the clothes! Guess where the dogs sit during dinner? Also, you don't see the face, into which some of that food actually manages to end up in the proper orifice. Yes, she loves her food!

Speaking of ugly - how do you like my toe? While we were swimming at the river I smacked that durn thing into a rock so hard that I heard a snap - just like when I broke my foot. It hurt SO bad. My makeshift splint didn't work so well, and it turns out that I just gave it a mighty bruise. Ahem - no comments needed about my "special" baby toe. Ahem.

I have no idea what kind of a beetle this is, all I know is that it is BIG!

Oh, yes. The project.

Any ideas of what crazy concoction we have come up with now? Never you mind about the height of a fashion statement I am making here. These are my workin' clothes, ladies! Course they also double for everyday clothes around the farm. I've even been known to run to the store in them thar' rags. Course it is a one hitch town - only store for miles around - you can git yur gazoline, movies, fried chickin' and them weekly newspaper things there. We even have an old town system of chargin' yur purchases at the store and gettin' billed once a month for 'em. Did I hear a cry of redneck???? Ha!

Woo Hoo

2010-07-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

Please take a moment to visit my good cyber friend's blog for a moment. Not only is her family excited to begin the process to bring a sweet 11 year old son into their home (their 3rd adoption from China!!!), but they are also having an AWESOME drawing for a brand new iPad!!!!!! Hurry on over to her site and check it out for yourself! You can also get to her site by clicking on the Joy Unspeakable button on my right sidebar.

While you are there, don't forget to enter the drawing per her directions. You will be helping an orphan join his forever family, AND possibly becoming a new owner of an iPad - no way you can loose!

My New Home

2010-07-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

That's My KING!

2010-07-11T07:34:00.001-07:00

WACAP Picnic in PDX

2010-07-10T14:32:00.001-07:00

WACAP had their picnic in Portland, Oregon this week, and we were able to attend! We had a fun time visiting, playing and eating with friends that we have "spoken" with via internet, but never actually met - FUN!

Grandpa accompanied us on the long drive - thanks Grandpa!

The group photo of those that we could find at the moment!

She was so proud of her blue tongue.

Happy Birthday

2010-07-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

What wonderful weather this year for my birthday!!!

I received a lovely gift of two propane fired lamp lights for my courtyard! This photo didn't work too well at night, but the flash ruined it!

I refused to pay any money this year on gardening stuffs, so I scrounged and recycled some old items to make a little water garden. I think that I will have to pay for some goldfish, though!

Zabi thought it was hilarious that we were singing to me - not her! Sorry that I didn't dress up for you guys, too. Sorry to say that we celebrated after I had worked outside ALL day. Might I remind you that it was over 90 degrees, too!?! No putting on my face, either :-(

Sorry - all the greenery was just planted, so it isn't very full yet!

IBoy's new toy - a welder! Oh, the plans I have for this new skill!

Camping Over the 4th

2010-07-06T18:42:00.000-07:00

Pre-camping gardening at Grandma's. Zabi had found a ladybug and they were examining it before encouraging it to fly home.

MissE and this year's youngest cousin camper.

Chillin'

Taking advantage of the play tent.

Camping in July. Yup - I got that durned thing stuck! (kind of forgot to lock the hubs!)

How can so much cuteness fit into one little girl?????

Pony rides for all the littles was, of course, in order!

Children cousins,

Adult cousins.

Since Zabi is so very cautious around animals, I didn't think she would even try a horse - but guess what? She couldn't wait for her turn!

Ready to go to the barn for more animals. Yup - hick style - a lawn chair in the bed of the pick'm'up!

Not so sure about feeding a bottle to an animal that is bigger than me!

Yes, I even took the chicklettes out in the boat!

All of us girlies sported matching bandanas for the 4th!

IBoy came home from Bible Camp just in time for fireworks!

Chicka couldn't get enough of the sparklers!

Zabi wasn't wild about fireworks. It took quite a bit of coaxing to get her this far, and half of the time, she would panic and throw the sparkler down. The big booms and bright lights on the "big boy" fireworks were overwhelming for her. As long as she was cuddled firmly and my hands covered her ears, she pretended to enjoy the show. She sure has been talking about them each day, though! Maybe next year she will be a little more enthusiastic! Of course, the "shotgun" wasn't about to be put down for anything!

Even the goats, Boo and Frankie, were able to join us camping!

Saturday walk in an amazing 74.5 degrees - oh, yeah!

2010-06-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Just the girlettes at home today with me.

We decided to do an experiment. We planted some leek and bok choy seeds in hydrated, non-toxic silica gel, enhanced with a little fertilizer. Should be fun to see if it works, and to be able to see the roots take shape.

After naps (the girls, not me!), we decided to take a little walk down to the mailbox and back.

Yes, we always appreciate seeing the lovely tongue. NOT!

My allergies started pitching a fit, so it was a short walk.

Nonetheless, I was able to snap a few quick pix before retreating to the relatively "clean" air of the house!

The really, really long driveway UP hill!

Always admiring herself.

What a darn shame- best weather we have had for a long time, and I can't go out in it now!

You can just make out the tippity top of our roofline from the driveway at this point.

I did manage to do a summer clean in the trailer, so it is now ready to stock with food and clothes and take off for a great adventure. Ha - we'll be lucky if we sleep in it while it sits in the barn!

NO SCHOOL!!!!

2010-06-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

Yeah! I thought the day might never come this year! With MissE now having her driver's license, it lightened my road time considerably for the last few weeks. But now, with school officially over for all of the kiddos for the summer, we can finally focus on home time.

IBoy has daily visits from the neighbor boys - much younger, but they tromp the forest and build and have adventures in the wild just the same. I don't think any of them care about the age spread!

MissE is now frantically applying to any and all scholarships that are still floating around - madly writing essays day and night. If you know of any, please don't hesitate to bring them to our attention!

Ready to go - NOT! With a 50/50 chance, don't you think that one could get the individual articles on the right way half the time? Somehow I don't think she should play the odds. Her average isn't great!

The littles are having a blast running around outside all day - swinging, catching frogs, wading in the creek, playing outdoor house and all the little girl activities that summer brings forth. We decided to do a trial tent run last night to make sure that Zabi is comfortable with sleeping outdoors. She was snoring the first one asleep! And where was Dad, do you guess? Yup - snoring contentedly - in BED!!!! I couldn't even talk MissE into sleeping with us!

If you know of anyone who might be interested in the addition of an adorable kitten (or two!), speak quickly - they are going fast, you know!

Wildlife, Music and Toilet Training

2010-06-20T22:12:00.000-07:00

On our way home, a mother deer and her newborn baby fawn ran across the road in front of us. MissE hopped out to take a closer look, and the baby fawn just hunkered down and sat. The little critter didn't object when scooped carefully up and the little girls were able to get an up-close and personal look at the sweetie!

Makin' music - and let me tell you - it wasn't pretty!

Looks innocent enough, right? Well, what Zabi is doing is encouraging her baby to p**p! This is how young children in China are potty trained (usually at a very young age). The little one is held exactly like Zabi is holding her baby (well, not quite tipped as far back as that - more in a sitting position, but the legs held just like that!) on a toilet or over the ground. A grunting noise is made by the adult. A healthy combination of watching for the tot's physical cues that they have to take care of business and the adult's grunting noise combine for success. Zabi still makes the grunt noise when she is in process. It kind of struck me that she hasn't seen toilet training methods used here in USA yet! In her mind, that is the way that everyone does it.

This ferocious guy sits outside my bedroom window every night serenading me! It is hard to believe that such a little bugger can make such a loud croak! MissE brought him in for a quick visit tonight. Gee, thanks!

What is that strange thing in the sky??????

2010-06-06T16:57:00.000-07:00

WHAT?????

The SUN???????? Could it possibly be????????

Well, yes we had some sun yesterday. What is it doing today? RAINING. Again.

Grandma made the littles a new outfit. Now if it would just get warm enough to wear them outside! No doubt, however, once it does warm up, you'll be hearing me complain of the heat. I guess I can't win!

AND . . . . . . . Leon had babies last night! 2 orange and white, 1 black with white stockings and 1 dark calico'ish'. I haven't had a chance to look at them closely enough to see if they are boys or girls yet. I think that Soni would get closer to examine them if I let her!

Ice Pops!!!!

2010-06-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

I just came across this blog and a fantastic giveaway - please check it out!!!!

Jen at Whole Food Kids, 11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven, 365 Days of TV-Free Toddler Time, Mega-Family Blogs, and life in mexico {and other places} a picture a day, is giving away a Zoku 7-Minute Pop Maker!

And just in case you don't know any awesome Popsicle recipes, she's throwing in THIS book, too!

This entire package is worth over $60! To enter, go HERE.

Internet

2010-05-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

Lovely thing, internet. Not so lovely when you are on satellite with bandwidth that can be exceeded. And you exceed it. Stupid rules. As I understand it, we are allowed x bandwidth in a rotating 30 day period. If our usage exceeds that x amount, we have to wait until the days roll by to go under that x amount. Then after it drops down, you still have to wait 48 hours before you are welcomed back. Stupid rules. So, if you have cable connection - be grateful and appreciate your good fortune. I don't think that cable will EVER be available to us who live in hicksville!

In reality, not much happened around here in those two weeks anyway! Nearly every day was cold and rainy.

The girls were pretending that the fence was a train on one of the VERY few days we saw that strange yellow orb in the sky.

We have a blockage in the dog kennel sewer line. Hubalink and I geared up to unblock it, only to find that the line has probably two 45 degree angles in it and the snake wouldn't touch the clog from either direction. I am tempted to use that high pressure water bladder doo-hicky, but in visualizing the process, all I can see is it coming unclogged and dog-doo flying everywhere. Not a pretty sight.

Another brief sunny moment.

MissE had her first solo drive to school (yup - she is now the proud owner of a driver's license!).

Yup - that's my girl! Chicka LOVES to come up with crazy outfits and DANCE!

An intense game of chess, complete with paper knighting.

Can life get any better than whipped cream?

MissE graduates in a few weeks with not only her high school diploma, but her AA as well! We are blessed to call her daughter. Way to go, sweetness!

Another one of IBoy's ice experiments.

Ah, yes - perhaps licking the beater could be better than whipped cream! Especially one of IBoy's creations!

I had been working so hard to clear out this portion of the creek alongside our house. Just a few weeks ago, all the vegetation to either side was cleared out! I feel like we are living in a rain forest environment!

Grandma had her big party! Many former students and friends showed up whom she hadn't seen in ages!

Hubbie's two elder sisters getting adjusted. I think it is sweet that they address each other "sister of mine"!

Two more "adjusters". Somehow these two are pretty darned special, too!

The queen of the party (not the greatest snap of her, sorry!) a-smoochin' on her favorite grandson!

Mr.T and MissE are cousins, only two days difference in age! He is always laughing at something and has a great sense of humor!

So there you have it. A whole lot of nuthin'!

God bless.

Belated Mother's Day Sharing

2010-05-11T22:37:00.000-07:00

Yup - busy again. I have really enjoyed reading all of my bloggy friends' posts about their wonderful Mother's Day festivities, and I hadn't had the opportunity to share mine!

For years, every Mother's Day, my favorite activity has always been for the family to go fishing or hiking. Sometimes we do both. This year turned out nearly as fun - not quite, only because a few of the munchkins were busy elsewhere :-(

We rented a heavy duty log splitter and spent the day splitting wood! I know that sounds like not so much fun to most sane moms, but I really enjoyed it! Out in the sunshine and fresh air (well, ignore the exhaust fumes from the gas engine of the log splitter AND the deafening roar of same engine), kiddos playing (or working!) around me, hubster and I (and IBoy, bless his muscles!) sweatin' away. It was fun! Even better, I know how much I am going to enjoy burning that same wood this winter when the wind is howling and the snow is falling.

MissE stayed home, ahem, to do schoolwork, ahem. When we drug our tired puppies in the door late that night, she greeted me with a million dollar smile. She had cleaned the entire stinkin' house for me! Everything was tidy and sparkling! ahem.

She scavenged the property for some colorful posies.

Bob, the Evil Tomato makes an ugly appearance again this year.

I even found a gorgeous origami rose waiting for me!

This card, however, stole my heart. It is from, as you can plainly see from the signatures, Zabi and Chicka! They could hardly wait to have me open their gift. Oh yes, they couldn't wait for me to open it - they told me what it was as they handed it to me - wrapped, of course! In case you can't read what the card says - All things grow with tender loving care. Thanks for helping me to grow!

IBoy captured this gorgeous sunset recently, just had to share!