Thursday, December 2, 2010
Friday, October 15, 2010
Fay like Pirate Booty
It is often challenging to know what a non verbal child likes and dislikes. Raising Fay is all trial and error. I know that she likes the sound and feel of potato chip bags. How do i know this? Well she often goes into the pantry and pulls down the basket with the children's snacks. She reaches in and pulls out every bag of chips she finds. She then proceeds to crinkle the bags up either with her hands or her mouth. If she is lucky enough she will bust open a bag and eat it's contents.
Last night, while her siblings where enjoying there before bedtime snack, Fay crawls over to me in the kitchen and starts hitting me with a bag of pirate booty. Hmmmm does she wanna eat this? I mean she just started eating food a few weeks ago and everything is so new to her. So I sit down on the floor of the kitchen right next to her and ask: Do you want some pirate booty? Fay knows sign language, well actually she only knows one sign, that is the sign for MORE, which she will use for YES as well. So I ask her if she wants some pirate booty and faster than I can blink she gives me the sign. Pirate booty it is. So we sat on the couch and my daughter ate half a bag, I ate the other half.
So watch out for your booty, I mean Pirate booty, my daughter might beat you up for some.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Hello blog land. It's been awhile since I have visited. As usual life in the Riggio household has been busy.
All the kids have started back at school, even Faith. It can be challenging to have all 4 kids home 24/7 for 3 months, so school is a nice break for ME. Paris has started 4th grade. She will be 10 this month and has a lot of changes going on physically, emotionally, socially and educationally. She is becoming a preteen and it totally freaks me out. Roc, well Roc is Roc. Baseball keeps him busy, which he loves. His passion for the sport blows my mind. He is now in 2nd grade and loves it. Rex, well Rex is trouble, always has been. He is in preschool and depending on the day, he isn't always happy about going and thinks he has a say so. Rex is my helper. He loves to cook. He says when he gets big like Mommy and Daddy he will cook for us. With that being said we signed him up for cooking class, which he calls kitchen class. He loves everything about it, especially his recipe book and apron. Faith started preschool at our districts special needs classroom. The first few weeks were rough. She goes 3 days a week and I had to join her the first few weeks until she felt comfortable with the environment and teachers. She is doing well now and her personality is beginning to shine.
Me, well I get a little me time, which I thought I'd spend going to the gym, but all I wanna do is stay home and eat junk..Decisions, decisions...
Everyday I am reminded of the miracles GOD as aloud me to witness and I feel sooooo blessed. I have 4 children that all love and hate (lol) each other so much. God has aloud me to witness my 3 bio children fall madly in love with our adopted child. They love and protect her like they do one another. It is so unconditional. It's funny when they say to me "Mommy are we going to tell Fay she is adopted". They don't see her as any different from them and they don't realize that her ethnicity will tell the story. It is a blessing. Faith is a miracle in her self. We often take so much for granite. Fay's needs have prevented her from doing things in a manner in which typical kids do. Watching her everyday is watching a MIRACLE. She has come so far in her 3 yrs of life. Over the last 2 months she has been progressing nicely. She can now pull her self to a standing position, and does it all day long. She also has started to eat none pureed foods, such as cereal bars and a PB and J sandwich. She doesn't like touching it so feeding does take sometime. Her progress is nothing short of a miracle. I cant imagine my life without all my amazing children. Motherhood has been my greatest gift ever.
All the kids have started back at school, even Faith. It can be challenging to have all 4 kids home 24/7 for 3 months, so school is a nice break for ME. Paris has started 4th grade. She will be 10 this month and has a lot of changes going on physically, emotionally, socially and educationally. She is becoming a preteen and it totally freaks me out. Roc, well Roc is Roc. Baseball keeps him busy, which he loves. His passion for the sport blows my mind. He is now in 2nd grade and loves it. Rex, well Rex is trouble, always has been. He is in preschool and depending on the day, he isn't always happy about going and thinks he has a say so. Rex is my helper. He loves to cook. He says when he gets big like Mommy and Daddy he will cook for us. With that being said we signed him up for cooking class, which he calls kitchen class. He loves everything about it, especially his recipe book and apron. Faith started preschool at our districts special needs classroom. The first few weeks were rough. She goes 3 days a week and I had to join her the first few weeks until she felt comfortable with the environment and teachers. She is doing well now and her personality is beginning to shine.
Me, well I get a little me time, which I thought I'd spend going to the gym, but all I wanna do is stay home and eat junk..Decisions, decisions...
Everyday I am reminded of the miracles GOD as aloud me to witness and I feel sooooo blessed. I have 4 children that all love and hate (lol) each other so much. God has aloud me to witness my 3 bio children fall madly in love with our adopted child. They love and protect her like they do one another. It is so unconditional. It's funny when they say to me "Mommy are we going to tell Fay she is adopted". They don't see her as any different from them and they don't realize that her ethnicity will tell the story. It is a blessing. Faith is a miracle in her self. We often take so much for granite. Fay's needs have prevented her from doing things in a manner in which typical kids do. Watching her everyday is watching a MIRACLE. She has come so far in her 3 yrs of life. Over the last 2 months she has been progressing nicely. She can now pull her self to a standing position, and does it all day long. She also has started to eat none pureed foods, such as cereal bars and a PB and J sandwich. She doesn't like touching it so feeding does take sometime. Her progress is nothing short of a miracle. I cant imagine my life without all my amazing children. Motherhood has been my greatest gift ever.
Fay eating an oreo and Rex in his halloween mask
Rex in Hawaii
Roc enjoying some tubing in Hawaii
Paris in Hawaii
Fay on a field trip for school. Riding the train at a carnival
Fay standing up..okay so the pics upside down
Fay on a field trip for school. Riding the train at a carnival
Fay standing up..okay so the pics upside down
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
post stealing, yet again
Blue Rose
So every once in awhile as I am reading through my friends blogs I read something truly inspirational. Sometimes what I read are things my friends have wrote or are things they got from other people. Either way they are amazing and touch my heart.
Here is one of those stories.
Blue Rose
Having four visiting family members, the wife was very busy, so I
offered to go to the store for her to get some needed items, which included
light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags, detergent, and Clorox. So off I
went.
I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies, and headed for
the checkout counter, only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man
who appeared to be about sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I
patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was there. This was when he
waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy,
I'm over here."
It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged, and also startled as
he turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His
eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy, what's
your name?"
"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he responded
proudly. "Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but
my name is Steve."
"Steve, like Stevarino?" he asked.
"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"
"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she slowly came over
from the next aisle.. "You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be a good boy
and let the man pass by."
I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for several more
minutes about summer, bicycles, and school. I watched his brown eyes dance
with excitement because he was the center of someone's attention. He then
abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.
Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me for taking
the time to talk with her son. She told me that most people wouldn't even
look at him, much less talk to him. I told her that it was my pleasure and
then I said something I have no idea where it came from, other than by the
prompting of the Holy Spirit.
I told her that there are plenty of red, yellow, and pink roses in
God's Garden; however, "Blue Roses" are very rare and should be appreciated
for their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a Blue Rose and if
someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart and touch that
rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God.
She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she asked,
"Who are you?"
Without thinking I said, "Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion but I sure
love living in God's garden."
She reached out, squeezed my hand, and said, "God bless you!" and then
I had tears in my eyes.
May I suggest that the next time you see a BLUE ROSE, don't turn your
head and walk off. Take the time to smile and say Hello. Why? Because, by
the grace of GOD, this mother or father could be you. This could be your
child, grandchild, niece, or nephew. What a difference a moment can mean to
that person or their family.
From an old dandelion!
Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the
rest to God.
"People will forget what you said, People will forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel."lue Rose
So every once in awhile as I am reading through my friends blogs I read something truly inspirational. Sometimes what I read are things my friends have wrote or are things they got from other people. Either way they are amazing and touch my heart.
Here is one of those stories.
Blue Rose
Having four visiting family members, the wife was very busy, so I
offered to go to the store for her to get some needed items, which included
light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags, detergent, and Clorox. So off I
went.
I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies, and headed for
the checkout counter, only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man
who appeared to be about sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I
patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was there. This was when he
waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy,
I'm over here."
It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged, and also startled as
he turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His
eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy, what's
your name?"
"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he responded
proudly. "Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but
my name is Steve."
"Steve, like Stevarino?" he asked.
"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"
"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she slowly came over
from the next aisle.. "You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be a good boy
and let the man pass by."
I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for several more
minutes about summer, bicycles, and school. I watched his brown eyes dance
with excitement because he was the center of someone's attention. He then
abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.
Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me for taking
the time to talk with her son. She told me that most people wouldn't even
look at him, much less talk to him. I told her that it was my pleasure and
then I said something I have no idea where it came from, other than by the
prompting of the Holy Spirit.
I told her that there are plenty of red, yellow, and pink roses in
God's Garden; however, "Blue Roses" are very rare and should be appreciated
for their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a Blue Rose and if
someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart and touch that
rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God.
She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she asked,
"Who are you?"
Without thinking I said, "Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion but I sure
love living in God's garden."
She reached out, squeezed my hand, and said, "God bless you!" and then
I had tears in my eyes.
May I suggest that the next time you see a BLUE ROSE, don't turn your
head and walk off. Take the time to smile and say Hello. Why? Because, by
the grace of GOD, this mother or father could be you. This could be your
child, grandchild, niece, or nephew. What a difference a moment can mean to
that person or their family.
From an old dandelion!
Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the
rest to God.
"People will forget what you said, People will forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel."lue Rose
Monday, June 21, 2010
Craziness
Life at our house has been crazy. I've been meaning to post for quit sometime, but the summer days are getting the best of me.
So let me back track. On May 23 my baby turned 3yrs old. WOW, where has the time gone. 3 was a big number for Fay, it meant lots of changes for her. We had her IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting with the school district. This meeting was to go over our goals for Fay as well as what the school district would be providing for her in terms of therapy. For the most part the meeting went well. After 2 1/2 hours of discussing your child's care and arguing over the amount of therapy provided I was broken. I know Fay will benefit greatly from school, but I am torn up about it. I will have to give up her care for 3 hrs a day 3 days a week to people I don't know. She is sooo tiny I worry about her safety. I also struggle with the fact that my baby is going to school. My last child. I can't imagine not having a child to care for. I am so saddened by this. Maybe it's time to have another child! Hmmmm.
Fay has been progressing nicely. She is crawling all over, started to pull herself up on furniture, and is very social. She has become quit vocal, although no words yet. Her lack of words are making her frustrated. I bought her an ipad in which she will eventually use it as a communication device. So far it is an unfamiliar toy so she isn't very interested. She has decided to forgo naps and it has become a challenge to get her to bed at night. She is experiencing separation anxiety. I can't leave the room without her freaking out. Emotionally she has become a 3 yr old, trapped in the body of a 1 yr old.
During our visit to the pediatrician for Fays 3 yr check up, we noticed she only gain 1lb in a year and nothing in length. We proceeded to do some testing on her thyroids and growth hormone. It ends up her growth hormone level is low so we will see an endocrinologist at the end of the month.
The rest of the crew has been really busy. Roc made the allstar team. Baseball is all consuming. He has a tournament every weekend and Jayme is the coach, so he is consumed as well. Paris has been busy with dance. She just had her Hip Hop dance recital. WOW, that girl has the moves. She will also be joining the HIP HOP dance competition team. Rex has been up to his usual antics. He is also becoming quit the swimmer. The kids are so exhausted by the end of each day that they pass out at night and sleep till 9 or 10 in the morning.
Meanwhile the month of June is birthday month in our family. We celebrated Jayme and Roc's birthday, as well as my moms, step dad, and a hand full of friends birthdays.
Our family has also grown in the last month. My brother-in-law's fiance officially moved to the U.S with her son. They have now become a family of 5. We are all so pleased to have them here.
Summer wouldn't be summer without a few vacations. Jayme and I are taking Paris, Roc and Rex to Hawaii in July. Then Jayme has planned a golf weekend with his buddies and I have a Vegas weekend with the girls. At some point I will be taking all the kids up to Santa Cruz to visit my sister-in-law and our ex-nanny. We end the summer with a family trip to bass lake, where we rent a house with 5 other families. fun fun fun fun.
We'll that's all for now folks. Have a wonderful summer.
Jayme's Birthday
So let me back track. On May 23 my baby turned 3yrs old. WOW, where has the time gone. 3 was a big number for Fay, it meant lots of changes for her. We had her IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting with the school district. This meeting was to go over our goals for Fay as well as what the school district would be providing for her in terms of therapy. For the most part the meeting went well. After 2 1/2 hours of discussing your child's care and arguing over the amount of therapy provided I was broken. I know Fay will benefit greatly from school, but I am torn up about it. I will have to give up her care for 3 hrs a day 3 days a week to people I don't know. She is sooo tiny I worry about her safety. I also struggle with the fact that my baby is going to school. My last child. I can't imagine not having a child to care for. I am so saddened by this. Maybe it's time to have another child! Hmmmm.
Fay has been progressing nicely. She is crawling all over, started to pull herself up on furniture, and is very social. She has become quit vocal, although no words yet. Her lack of words are making her frustrated. I bought her an ipad in which she will eventually use it as a communication device. So far it is an unfamiliar toy so she isn't very interested. She has decided to forgo naps and it has become a challenge to get her to bed at night. She is experiencing separation anxiety. I can't leave the room without her freaking out. Emotionally she has become a 3 yr old, trapped in the body of a 1 yr old.
During our visit to the pediatrician for Fays 3 yr check up, we noticed she only gain 1lb in a year and nothing in length. We proceeded to do some testing on her thyroids and growth hormone. It ends up her growth hormone level is low so we will see an endocrinologist at the end of the month.
The rest of the crew has been really busy. Roc made the allstar team. Baseball is all consuming. He has a tournament every weekend and Jayme is the coach, so he is consumed as well. Paris has been busy with dance. She just had her Hip Hop dance recital. WOW, that girl has the moves. She will also be joining the HIP HOP dance competition team. Rex has been up to his usual antics. He is also becoming quit the swimmer. The kids are so exhausted by the end of each day that they pass out at night and sleep till 9 or 10 in the morning.
Meanwhile the month of June is birthday month in our family. We celebrated Jayme and Roc's birthday, as well as my moms, step dad, and a hand full of friends birthdays.
Our family has also grown in the last month. My brother-in-law's fiance officially moved to the U.S with her son. They have now become a family of 5. We are all so pleased to have them here.
Summer wouldn't be summer without a few vacations. Jayme and I are taking Paris, Roc and Rex to Hawaii in July. Then Jayme has planned a golf weekend with his buddies and I have a Vegas weekend with the girls. At some point I will be taking all the kids up to Santa Cruz to visit my sister-in-law and our ex-nanny. We end the summer with a family trip to bass lake, where we rent a house with 5 other families. fun fun fun fun.
We'll that's all for now folks. Have a wonderful summer.
Jayme's Birthday
watching tv
winning their 1st baseball tourney
playing dress-up, hee hee, blackmail
playing dress-up, hee hee, blackmail
pool fun
Fay's Birthday
Fay's Birthday
Monday, May 17, 2010
stolen post
A SPECIAL MOTHER - By Erma Bombeck
Most women become mothers by accident, some by choice, a few by social pressures and a couple by habit. This year nearly 100,000 women will become mothers of handicapped children.
Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen? Somehow I visualize God hovering over earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As He observes, He instructs His angels to make notes in a giant ledger.
"Armstrong, Beth; son. Patron saint...give her Gerard. He's used to profanity."
"Forrest, Marjorie; daughter. Patron saint, Cecelia."
"Rutledge, Carrie; twins. Patron saint, Matthew."
Finally He passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child."
The angel is curious. "Why this one God? She's so happy."
"Exactly," smiles God, "Could I give a handicapped child to a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."
"But has she patience?" asks the angel.
"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wears off, she'll handle it. I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has her own world. She has to make her live in her world and that's not going to be easy."
"But, Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."
God smiles, "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect -she has just enough selfishness."
The angel gasps - "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"
God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a 'spoken word'". She will consider a 'step' ordinary. When her child says 'Momma' for the first time, she will be present at a miracle, and will know it! I will permit her to see clearly the things I see...ignorance, cruelty, prejudice....and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life, because she is doing My work as surely as if she is here by My side".
"And what about her Patron saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in mid-air.
God smiles, "A mirror will suffice."
I am so blessed!
Believe... Prayer Works!
p>
Most women become mothers by accident, some by choice, a few by social pressures and a couple by habit. This year nearly 100,000 women will become mothers of handicapped children.
Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen? Somehow I visualize God hovering over earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As He observes, He instructs His angels to make notes in a giant ledger.
"Armstrong, Beth; son. Patron saint...give her Gerard. He's used to profanity."
"Forrest, Marjorie; daughter. Patron saint, Cecelia."
"Rutledge, Carrie; twins. Patron saint, Matthew."
Finally He passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child."
The angel is curious. "Why this one God? She's so happy."
"Exactly," smiles God, "Could I give a handicapped child to a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."
"But has she patience?" asks the angel.
"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wears off, she'll handle it. I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has her own world. She has to make her live in her world and that's not going to be easy."
"But, Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."
God smiles, "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect -she has just enough selfishness."
The angel gasps - "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"
God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a 'spoken word'". She will consider a 'step' ordinary. When her child says 'Momma' for the first time, she will be present at a miracle, and will know it! I will permit her to see clearly the things I see...ignorance, cruelty, prejudice....and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life, because she is doing My work as surely as if she is here by My side".
"And what about her Patron saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in mid-air.
God smiles, "A mirror will suffice."
I am so blessed!
Believe... Prayer Works!
p>
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Where would we be right now.
Where would she be right now. She could been all alone, hungry, crying, cold. She could be lying in a crib or on the floor so far gone from this world. She could be neglected or malnuorished, starving for food and love. She could be in pain and suffering. She could be abused or mistreated. She could be DEAD. And where would we be? We'd be just where we are. In a beautiful house, with food on the table, with a family to love us. We'd have an education, money,etc.. but,We would be void of all the possibilities. We wouldnt know what it would be like to open our hearts, we would have never given ourselves to the unknown.
I thank GOD that she is with us and we are with her.
I thank GOD that she is with us and we are with her.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Time flies when your having fun
GOTCHA DAY.
Two years ago today Faith was placed in my arms forever. Little did I know how she would forever ROCK my world. My life has been all that much more blessed and fulfilled since she has entered it.
Two years ago, at 11 months old, my baby girl weighed 13lbs and couldnt hold her head up. Since then she has grown and developed leaps and bounds. She can now crawl, say mam and dada and is trying so hard to do many things. She has a long road ahead of her, but I couldnt be more proud.
Two years ago today Faith was placed in my arms forever. Little did I know how she would forever ROCK my world. My life has been all that much more blessed and fulfilled since she has entered it.
Two years ago, at 11 months old, my baby girl weighed 13lbs and couldnt hold her head up. Since then she has grown and developed leaps and bounds. She can now crawl, say mam and dada and is trying so hard to do many things. She has a long road ahead of her, but I couldnt be more proud.
THEN
My favorite picture from that day, my MOM and Faith
My favorite picture from that day, my MOM and Faith
NOW
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Here's a little something I found (stole from another blogger)
Disability Beatitudes".
Blessed are you who take time to listen to defective speech, or you help us to know that if we persevere, we can be understood.
Blessed are you who walk with us in public places and ignore the stares of strangers, for in your companionship we find havens of relaxation.
Blessed are you that never bids you "hurry up" and more bless are you that do not snatch our tasks from our hands to do them for us, for often we need time rather than help.
Blessed are you who stand beside us as we enter new ventures, for our failures will be outweighed by times we surprise ourselves and you.
Blessed are you who ask for our help, for our greatest need is to be needed.
Blessed are you when by all these things you assure us that the thing that makes us individuals is not our peculiar muscles, nor our wounded nervous system, but is the God-given self that no infirmity can confine..
Blessed are those who pick thing up without being asked.
Blessed are those who understand that sometimes I am weak and not just lazy.
Blessed are those who forget my disability of the body and see the shape of my soul.
Blessed are those who see me as a whole person, unique and complete, and not as a "half" and one of God's mistakes.
Blessed are those who love me just as I am without wondering what I might have been like.
Blessed are my friends on whom I depend, for they are the substance and joy of my life!!!
Disability Beatitudes".
Blessed are you who take time to listen to defective speech, or you help us to know that if we persevere, we can be understood.
Blessed are you who walk with us in public places and ignore the stares of strangers, for in your companionship we find havens of relaxation.
Blessed are you that never bids you "hurry up" and more bless are you that do not snatch our tasks from our hands to do them for us, for often we need time rather than help.
Blessed are you who stand beside us as we enter new ventures, for our failures will be outweighed by times we surprise ourselves and you.
Blessed are you who ask for our help, for our greatest need is to be needed.
Blessed are you when by all these things you assure us that the thing that makes us individuals is not our peculiar muscles, nor our wounded nervous system, but is the God-given self that no infirmity can confine..
Blessed are those who pick thing up without being asked.
Blessed are those who understand that sometimes I am weak and not just lazy.
Blessed are those who forget my disability of the body and see the shape of my soul.
Blessed are those who see me as a whole person, unique and complete, and not as a "half" and one of God's mistakes.
Blessed are those who love me just as I am without wondering what I might have been like.
Blessed are my friends on whom I depend, for they are the substance and joy of my life!!!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Crawling?
Watching Fay grow and develop is not like watching a "typical" children. Everything she does from picking up a toy to sitting up to crawling takes 6 months to a year. Walking may even take years. Fay goes to therapy everyday from an hour to 4 hours. She does Speech, Occupational, Physical Tomatis, Neurosuit and Equestrian therapy. She often gets frustrated, upset, tired, but more than not she is HAPPY. Soon she will have been home with us for 2 yrs. I think back to the day they handed her to me and then think about today. Watching Fay is watching a MIRACLE. GOD is so good.
Here is a video of Fay starting to crawl.
Here is a video of Fay starting to crawl.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
stealing posts
I love stealing other peoples posts. Sometimes others manage to says things exactly how I would wish to say them, but I just don't know how. This is one of those my sister was reading a friends post, found this and posted it too her blog, then I stole it from my sisters blog.
Anyways enjoy
Aspiring for More!
I must admit that I am an Olympics junkie. There is something astounding about these athletes that have trained and sacrificed so much for one goal.......to be the best! I can't even imagine giving up friends, school , and even family to train as an elite athlete. Then you have their families........what have they given up to fuel the dreams of their children? Some have done without for so long......while others have worked two and three jobs to finance their young hopefuls.........It really is almost overwhelming.
However, I got to thinking tonight that we parents of Special Needs children really aren't much different. I have traveled great distances, spent weeks away from home, quit my job, spent endless hours researching treatment, hours of therapy, hours giving therapy, and heartbreaking times fighting for my son. Why, because I believe in him.....I believe.
We parents will probably never be featured on national television, and our children won't be gracing the pages of Sports Illustrated. Still, we press on....some of us trying to teach our children to walk, talk, eat, or learn to be human. Daily.....all around us these struggles continue. Our medals are not Gold or Silver, they are smiles, tears, and triumphs for things most parents take for granted.
I never realized that I am an Olympian. Not a sports figure.....but in spirit because I believe that with tremendous hard work and effort AND faith.......my son will have a future! I carry my torch daily with so many of my special friends with special children.
If you know one of us......give us a congratulatory hug......our journey is long and for some of us it will never end....but we believe and we have faith! All we ask for is a little encouragement......our finish line is often far away and we need to hear the cowbells and cheers to push us along the way!
Anyways enjoy
Aspiring for More!
I must admit that I am an Olympics junkie. There is something astounding about these athletes that have trained and sacrificed so much for one goal.......to be the best! I can't even imagine giving up friends, school , and even family to train as an elite athlete. Then you have their families........what have they given up to fuel the dreams of their children? Some have done without for so long......while others have worked two and three jobs to finance their young hopefuls.........It really is almost overwhelming.
However, I got to thinking tonight that we parents of Special Needs children really aren't much different. I have traveled great distances, spent weeks away from home, quit my job, spent endless hours researching treatment, hours of therapy, hours giving therapy, and heartbreaking times fighting for my son. Why, because I believe in him.....I believe.
We parents will probably never be featured on national television, and our children won't be gracing the pages of Sports Illustrated. Still, we press on....some of us trying to teach our children to walk, talk, eat, or learn to be human. Daily.....all around us these struggles continue. Our medals are not Gold or Silver, they are smiles, tears, and triumphs for things most parents take for granted.
I never realized that I am an Olympian. Not a sports figure.....but in spirit because I believe that with tremendous hard work and effort AND faith.......my son will have a future! I carry my torch daily with so many of my special friends with special children.
If you know one of us......give us a congratulatory hug......our journey is long and for some of us it will never end....but we believe and we have faith! All we ask for is a little encouragement......our finish line is often far away and we need to hear the cowbells and cheers to push us along the way!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Ok, so one of my favorite bloggers posted this on their blog about big families and I had to steal it. It's funny and so true at the same time. Enjoy
Blog post by MckMama:
I know that bigger families sometimes boggle minds. If I had a penny for every time I was told, "You must be crazy! I'd go bonkers with so many kids; I can hardly handle the two I have!" I'd seriously buy Hawaii and just be done with it. But, it is my firm assertion that big families may actually be easier than smaller ones. I don't know, it's just a hunch.
But my hunch was strengthened when a blog reader named Kris sent me the link to a fabulous, clever, hysterical, oh-so-true article about big families. The following piece, written by Matthew Archibold for the National Catholic Register, was so amazingly spot on, that I just had to drop what I was doing and share it with you.
Enjoy!
Why big families are easier:
Patience. I never have to teach patience. My children know that I can’t drop everything for them if I have a baby in my arms.
Work Ethic. My children have learned to work because there are always chores to do in a small house packed with little messy lunatics. And they all learn quickly that sometimes they have to clean up a mess even though they didn’t make it.
Humility. My children have learned it’s not always their turn. They’ve accepted they can’t always get their way because other people have to get their way sometimes. They’ve learned that some children are better at certain things than they are.
Foreign language skills. You can learn a lot of Spanish by watching ten years of Dora the Explorer that you just can’t pick up in two. And now with the Diego spin off I’m practically fluent.
Laughter. The children have learned to laugh at the insane non sequiturs of younger siblings. They’ve learned that laughing just feels better when seven people are doing it along with you.
Competition. Do I really need to go into this? Everything is a competition in big families. The children compete over who reads faster, who drinks their milk faster, who gets to the bathroom first…etc. Everything is a competition and they’re all keeping score.
Balance. The floor of the front room of my home is a minefield of toys and childhood paraphernalia. Just walking through the room requires great skill and balance. I’m absolutely convinced my two year old will be a favorite for Gold on the balance beam in the 2016 Olympics. (She might have to lay off the cookies a little but I’ll deal with that later.)
Life isn’t fair. Sometimes you just give it to the baby because you want a little quiet. Not all the time. But sometimes.
Just say “No.” Being able to say “no” may be the most undervalued skill in this world. The need to be liked is pervasive. The need to be cool even more so. Having brothers and sisters teaches children to say “no” about 143 times a day. It’s a good skill.
Praying. They learn that nothing beats praying together as a family.
Nature/Nurture. Having many children has taught me that nature has a lot more to do with who my kids are than nurture. This is helpful, especially when your children misbehave you don’t have to feel bad about it. Just say “Stupid nature!!!” and blame your spouse’s genes.
Namecalling. You can occasionally call your child by the wrong name and still not be considered a terrible parent. They know who you mean just from your tone. Sometimes if you need something done you can call the wrong name and someone will still show up. That helps.
Spying. My children have learned that they can’t get away with anything. I have spies who look a lot like them who are willing to drop the dime on them for anything. Even at school I’ve got a child in just about every grade. If they do something I’ll hear. That keeps them nervous. And I like keeping my kids a little nervous.
Friendship. The children have many friends. They’ve got girly friends, crying friends, fun loving friends, consoling friends, and crazy friends. And they all have the same last name. And they’ll be there forever for each other. No matter what.
Love. I think my children have learned to love because there are others around them to love and who love them. I honestly can think of no better way to teach children to love than siblings.
Blog post by MckMama:
I know that bigger families sometimes boggle minds. If I had a penny for every time I was told, "You must be crazy! I'd go bonkers with so many kids; I can hardly handle the two I have!" I'd seriously buy Hawaii and just be done with it. But, it is my firm assertion that big families may actually be easier than smaller ones. I don't know, it's just a hunch.
But my hunch was strengthened when a blog reader named Kris sent me the link to a fabulous, clever, hysterical, oh-so-true article about big families. The following piece, written by Matthew Archibold for the National Catholic Register, was so amazingly spot on, that I just had to drop what I was doing and share it with you.
Enjoy!
Why big families are easier:
Patience. I never have to teach patience. My children know that I can’t drop everything for them if I have a baby in my arms.
Work Ethic. My children have learned to work because there are always chores to do in a small house packed with little messy lunatics. And they all learn quickly that sometimes they have to clean up a mess even though they didn’t make it.
Humility. My children have learned it’s not always their turn. They’ve accepted they can’t always get their way because other people have to get their way sometimes. They’ve learned that some children are better at certain things than they are.
Foreign language skills. You can learn a lot of Spanish by watching ten years of Dora the Explorer that you just can’t pick up in two. And now with the Diego spin off I’m practically fluent.
Laughter. The children have learned to laugh at the insane non sequiturs of younger siblings. They’ve learned that laughing just feels better when seven people are doing it along with you.
Competition. Do I really need to go into this? Everything is a competition in big families. The children compete over who reads faster, who drinks their milk faster, who gets to the bathroom first…etc. Everything is a competition and they’re all keeping score.
Balance. The floor of the front room of my home is a minefield of toys and childhood paraphernalia. Just walking through the room requires great skill and balance. I’m absolutely convinced my two year old will be a favorite for Gold on the balance beam in the 2016 Olympics. (She might have to lay off the cookies a little but I’ll deal with that later.)
Life isn’t fair. Sometimes you just give it to the baby because you want a little quiet. Not all the time. But sometimes.
Just say “No.” Being able to say “no” may be the most undervalued skill in this world. The need to be liked is pervasive. The need to be cool even more so. Having brothers and sisters teaches children to say “no” about 143 times a day. It’s a good skill.
Praying. They learn that nothing beats praying together as a family.
Nature/Nurture. Having many children has taught me that nature has a lot more to do with who my kids are than nurture. This is helpful, especially when your children misbehave you don’t have to feel bad about it. Just say “Stupid nature!!!” and blame your spouse’s genes.
Namecalling. You can occasionally call your child by the wrong name and still not be considered a terrible parent. They know who you mean just from your tone. Sometimes if you need something done you can call the wrong name and someone will still show up. That helps.
Spying. My children have learned that they can’t get away with anything. I have spies who look a lot like them who are willing to drop the dime on them for anything. Even at school I’ve got a child in just about every grade. If they do something I’ll hear. That keeps them nervous. And I like keeping my kids a little nervous.
Friendship. The children have many friends. They’ve got girly friends, crying friends, fun loving friends, consoling friends, and crazy friends. And they all have the same last name. And they’ll be there forever for each other. No matter what.
Love. I think my children have learned to love because there are others around them to love and who love them. I honestly can think of no better way to teach children to love than siblings.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Prayer can lead you to unexpected places.
It's amazing where prayer will lead you.
I've prayed long and hard for the Lord to soften Jaymes heart so we can have more kids, and then I prayed for the Lord to guide us on how to go about a new adoption or having bio kids. However, the more I prayed for the latter, things started to become clear. It was an answer that I never expected.
I've wanted a handful of kids for a long time now. I'm supermom, I can handle it. Well I realized that I can't handle it. Not an easy thing to say. Therefore, I've made an executive family decision last night. We are done adding to our family for now. That's right, no more kids, or dogs, or guinea pigs. I'm blessed to have the four children that I do.
Thank you everyone for your support.
Now on to something new. Faith started Hippo therapy(equestrian therapy) last week. She did an incredible job. She rode the horse for thirty minutes or so. She smiled here and there and cried here and there, but ultimately survived it. She also finished up her three week intensive therapy in L.A.. She did a phenomenal job. She did so good that I'm driving down once or twice a week for some traditional therapy. Here are some pics.
I've prayed long and hard for the Lord to soften Jaymes heart so we can have more kids, and then I prayed for the Lord to guide us on how to go about a new adoption or having bio kids. However, the more I prayed for the latter, things started to become clear. It was an answer that I never expected.
I've wanted a handful of kids for a long time now. I'm supermom, I can handle it. Well I realized that I can't handle it. Not an easy thing to say. Therefore, I've made an executive family decision last night. We are done adding to our family for now. That's right, no more kids, or dogs, or guinea pigs. I'm blessed to have the four children that I do.
Thank you everyone for your support.
Now on to something new. Faith started Hippo therapy(equestrian therapy) last week. She did an incredible job. She rode the horse for thirty minutes or so. She smiled here and there and cried here and there, but ultimately survived it. She also finished up her three week intensive therapy in L.A.. She did a phenomenal job. She did so good that I'm driving down once or twice a week for some traditional therapy. Here are some pics.
Friday, February 12, 2010
So I have been struggling with a big decision. Maybe you can help me.
As most of you know my desire to have more kids is GREAT. My husbands desire for more kids not so great. However, he as given me the go ahead.
Our situation is this. We have 3 biological children and 1 adopted child. After our third child my husband got a vasectomy. Unfortunately my desire for more kids was to powerful for his vasectomy, so we adopted. When we adopted our daughter from Guatemala, I knew we were making the right decision. I never had a doubt in my mind that adopting from Guatemala was the right choice for us. I feel so blessed everyday to have had the opportunity to adopt our daughter.
Now that we have decide to have another child, I am not so clear on how to go about it. As of now we are leaning towards adopting from Ethiopia. But I am just not feeling 100% sure about it. Other options are Foster/Adopt, Domestic Adoption, vasectomy reversal, IVF, Artificial Insemination, etc..
Each of the above options has there negative and positive.
I pray, pray, pray about this and hope to get a clearer answer soon. Please dont mis interpret this. I am not complaining. It's a GREAT problem to have.
So what does everyone think. What would you do right now in your life if you were faced with the same issue?
As most of you know my desire to have more kids is GREAT. My husbands desire for more kids not so great. However, he as given me the go ahead.
Our situation is this. We have 3 biological children and 1 adopted child. After our third child my husband got a vasectomy. Unfortunately my desire for more kids was to powerful for his vasectomy, so we adopted. When we adopted our daughter from Guatemala, I knew we were making the right decision. I never had a doubt in my mind that adopting from Guatemala was the right choice for us. I feel so blessed everyday to have had the opportunity to adopt our daughter.
Now that we have decide to have another child, I am not so clear on how to go about it. As of now we are leaning towards adopting from Ethiopia. But I am just not feeling 100% sure about it. Other options are Foster/Adopt, Domestic Adoption, vasectomy reversal, IVF, Artificial Insemination, etc..
Each of the above options has there negative and positive.
I pray, pray, pray about this and hope to get a clearer answer soon. Please dont mis interpret this. I am not complaining. It's a GREAT problem to have.
So what does everyone think. What would you do right now in your life if you were faced with the same issue?
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
From the mouth of a 3 year old.
So I'm dropping the kiddos off at school and this is the conversation I had with my son Rex,3.
Rex: "Mommy, Mommy, look at me".
Me: "I can't, I'm driving".
Rex: "Your not driving, your texting".
Last night my husband and I are trying to put the boys to bed and Rex,3 is giving Roc,7 a hard time. My husband brings Rex into the family room and he is mad.
Rex: "I'm going to beat Roc's ass".
Rex then runs back into the bedroom and says to Roc.
Rex: "You better watch it our I'm going to beat your ass".
I admit it, he gets it all from me.....OHHHHHH MAN
Rex: "Mommy, Mommy, look at me".
Me: "I can't, I'm driving".
Rex: "Your not driving, your texting".
Last night my husband and I are trying to put the boys to bed and Rex,3 is giving Roc,7 a hard time. My husband brings Rex into the family room and he is mad.
Rex: "I'm going to beat Roc's ass".
Rex then runs back into the bedroom and says to Roc.
Rex: "You better watch it our I'm going to beat your ass".
I admit it, he gets it all from me.....OHHHHHH MAN
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Paris and Faith
I have a sister, a twin sister. We have a bond that goes above and beyond any bond I've ever had with another human being. She is my best friend, my soul mate. Our relationship is indescribable. And that is what I want for my daughters.
When my daughter Paris was 7 yrs old we adopted our youngest child, Faith from Guatemala. She was 1 yrs old when she arrived home with us. Although there was a bit of an age difference, I was so excited for our oldest to have a sister of her own. I wanted her to have that special relationship with her new sister that I have with mine. However, when we brought our daughter home from Guatemala, we soon learned that she had special needs, needs that were both mental and physical. I was afraid that that relationship and bond that I wanted our
daughters to have would never happen. It tore me up.
This morning I realized that I was completely wrong. I was reading a blog post that completely changed my attitude towards my daughters relationship. Check it out
Last night Paris was playing with Faith and Faith was just cracking up. As I look back this morning and after reading the blog post I realized that my girls have an incredible bond, a bond that only GOD could have created. When they look at one another there eyes are filled with so much love and trust. I feel SOOOOOO blessed. I am glad that my eyes finally opened up to the relationship that my girls have.
This morning I realized that I was completely wrong. I was reading a blog post that completely changed my attitude towards my daughters relationship. Check it out
Last night Paris was playing with Faith and Faith was just cracking up. As I look back this morning and after reading the blog post I realized that my girls have an incredible bond, a bond that only GOD could have created. When they look at one another there eyes are filled with so much love and trust. I feel SOOOOOO blessed. I am glad that my eyes finally opened up to the relationship that my girls have.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
I feel so BLESSED
I wish everyone in the world could feel the same way I do.
CONTENTMENT
LOVED
BLESSED
HOPEFUL
ENCOURAGED
Times like these I think back to the days were the Lord opened my heart. The day the Lord choose me to be SAVED. My entire life changed that day. Just thinking about it makes me want to cry out in Joy. I feel so lucky.
Faith update:
I'm back in Los Angeles for Fay's 3 week 5 days a week, 3 hours a day of intensive Neurosuit therapy. It's the slow session and it's very quite here. Fay is doing great. They are working on her standing and crawling. I usually try not to get my hopes up during these session. If anything, these sessions make her so much stronger, however, my hopes are up this time. Fay is so close to crawling on all four. That will be a glorious day. Prayers are always welcomed.
So it's been raining cats and dogs here in L.A. I'm hoping it will subside long enough for me to take the kiddos to Disneyland on Monday. My older kiddos need some good Mommy time, hopefully Disneyland will accomplish that.
PEACE OUT
CONTENTMENT
LOVED
BLESSED
HOPEFUL
ENCOURAGED
Times like these I think back to the days were the Lord opened my heart. The day the Lord choose me to be SAVED. My entire life changed that day. Just thinking about it makes me want to cry out in Joy. I feel so lucky.
Faith update:
I'm back in Los Angeles for Fay's 3 week 5 days a week, 3 hours a day of intensive Neurosuit therapy. It's the slow session and it's very quite here. Fay is doing great. They are working on her standing and crawling. I usually try not to get my hopes up during these session. If anything, these sessions make her so much stronger, however, my hopes are up this time. Fay is so close to crawling on all four. That will be a glorious day. Prayers are always welcomed.
So it's been raining cats and dogs here in L.A. I'm hoping it will subside long enough for me to take the kiddos to Disneyland on Monday. My older kiddos need some good Mommy time, hopefully Disneyland will accomplish that.
PEACE OUT
Monday, January 18, 2010
I got a blog award
The Sunshine Award is awarded to bloggers whose positivity and creativity inspires others in the blogworld. I, in turn, am supposed to pass this award on to 10 bloggers who inspire me. Here goes…
The 30 Day Journey........For Hope Is about an incredible family who's love for the Lord and his children can see them through anything. They are adoption advocates for those with special needs, especially Down Syndrome. You can't help but fall in love with them
Whatever it takes, No matter what This blog is near and dear to my heart. It is about my Nephew who suffered a near drowning three years ago and his new journey through life
The Love Shack This is one creative Mama. From her adoption of her daughter to her passion for photography, her words and life will inspire you
The life of Lou Lou Now this woman can sew as well as turn antiques/junk into between furniture. But that's not the half of it. She is raising 4 amazing children, 2 of whom are adopted from Guatemala
Familia Giancola Heres a family that will capture your heart. They have been working effortlessly to bring there daughter home from Guatemala
Danielle's Fight This blog is about an amazing young woman who is documenting her fight against cancer. Talk about inspirational
Okay so I'm suppose to do ten, but I'm currently at therapy with my daughter and can concentrate with her screaming. So I'll have to stop here. Pop on over to those blogs, they are amazing
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Three Years Ago Our Lives Changed Forever
Three years ago the unthinkable happened. My nephew suffered an accident that would change our lives forever. Three years ago my nephew died and was brought back to us. However, when the Lord brought him back he was no longer the same child. He is now severely disabled. He is trapped in a a body that let's him do very little. We had no idea how our lives would change FOREVER.
Prior to my nephews accident, life was pretty easy. My siblings and I were blessed with amazing parents and an incredible loving and supportive extended family. We never went without. We had our share of ups and downs like most, but nothing that was life altering. Until that fateful day three years ago.
Through my nephews accident we learned our purpose in life. When I say OUR purpose, I include myself. Let me try and explain.
My sister and I are identical twins. Our lives mimicked each others in so many ways, from the car we drove to the amount of children we had and so on. My sister had a daughter and two boys like myself. I knew by adopting our fourth daughter that something was different with my sister and I. Keep in mind that our adoption was after my nephews accident. It wasn't until I brought our daughter home from Guatemala that I new what our connection was. Like my sister I now had a child that was also disabled.
Through my nephews accident and the strength, courage and dedication my sister has. I have been able to help my daughter in so many amazing ways. She has introduced me to therapies that have literally changed my daughters life and will continue to change her life.
I wish you could all met my nephew. He is incredible. If you'd like to met him, then hop over to my sister blog. Fighting for Joey
Prior to my nephews accident, life was pretty easy. My siblings and I were blessed with amazing parents and an incredible loving and supportive extended family. We never went without. We had our share of ups and downs like most, but nothing that was life altering. Until that fateful day three years ago.
Through my nephews accident we learned our purpose in life. When I say OUR purpose, I include myself. Let me try and explain.
My sister and I are identical twins. Our lives mimicked each others in so many ways, from the car we drove to the amount of children we had and so on. My sister had a daughter and two boys like myself. I knew by adopting our fourth daughter that something was different with my sister and I. Keep in mind that our adoption was after my nephews accident. It wasn't until I brought our daughter home from Guatemala that I new what our connection was. Like my sister I now had a child that was also disabled.
Through my nephews accident and the strength, courage and dedication my sister has. I have been able to help my daughter in so many amazing ways. She has introduced me to therapies that have literally changed my daughters life and will continue to change her life.
I wish you could all met my nephew. He is incredible. If you'd like to met him, then hop over to my sister blog. Fighting for Joey
I feel very blessed to have Joey and Fay in my life. The Lord has opened my eyes to things that I never imagined where out there. Although life is now a bit more challenging, I am so grateful for the challenge.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
New look, new year, new post....
So far this year is looking crazy busy. My husband is expanding his business, which means lots of work and stress for him. I'm sensing we will have a couple of lonely dinners without him this year. Baseball season is about to start for my hubby and son. Oh man talk about all consuming. By the time baseball season is over I'm exhausted. However, my son and hubby love it, so I can't complain to much. The other kiddos are doing their things, dance class for Paris and trouble making for Rex. And then there's my little Fay Fay.
Fay is getting ready to start a 3 week intensive therapy program. I'm feeling like this is going to be a tough 3 weeks for us both. She no long likes going to therapy, well she never liked it, but she understands what happens and she hates it. So there is lots of tantruming on her part. After her 3 week intensive program she starts hippo therapy, which is very similar to equestrian therapy except she has a physical therapist by her side at all times. Meanwhile, Fay is progressing nicely. she can military crawl the length of our house and is sooooo soooo close to crawling on all fours. She has been working really hard on trying to pull her self up. She gets on high knees then gets stuck. Her fine motor skills have improved greatly. She can clap her hands and bang two toys together. However her speech has regressed a little, but her understanding has improved. Fay has been working really hard and moving right along. I am so very proud of her.
My hubby and I have been discussing adoption alot lately. We are currently in the research process but hope to add another child to our family in the next year or too.
Me, well I'm just trucking along and loving every minute of it.
So far this year is looking crazy busy. My husband is expanding his business, which means lots of work and stress for him. I'm sensing we will have a couple of lonely dinners without him this year. Baseball season is about to start for my hubby and son. Oh man talk about all consuming. By the time baseball season is over I'm exhausted. However, my son and hubby love it, so I can't complain to much. The other kiddos are doing their things, dance class for Paris and trouble making for Rex. And then there's my little Fay Fay.
Fay is getting ready to start a 3 week intensive therapy program. I'm feeling like this is going to be a tough 3 weeks for us both. She no long likes going to therapy, well she never liked it, but she understands what happens and she hates it. So there is lots of tantruming on her part. After her 3 week intensive program she starts hippo therapy, which is very similar to equestrian therapy except she has a physical therapist by her side at all times. Meanwhile, Fay is progressing nicely. she can military crawl the length of our house and is sooooo soooo close to crawling on all fours. She has been working really hard on trying to pull her self up. She gets on high knees then gets stuck. Her fine motor skills have improved greatly. She can clap her hands and bang two toys together. However her speech has regressed a little, but her understanding has improved. Fay has been working really hard and moving right along. I am so very proud of her.
My hubby and I have been discussing adoption alot lately. We are currently in the research process but hope to add another child to our family in the next year or too.
Me, well I'm just trucking along and loving every minute of it.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Friday, January 1, 2010
How did you ring in the New Year
The best way I can..hanging at the house with my hubby, my children, good friends, fun food and lots of laughing. We had a house full last night. 12 adults, 16 kids and lots of pizza. We watched sports, played the Wii, destroyed a pinata and laughed harder than we have in a long time. It was a great way to celebrate the New Year.
So what did you do?
Here's some pics that made last night fun
So what did you do?
Here's some pics that made last night fun
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I am a SAHM who has been married for 10 years. My husband and I have 4 children. Our youngest who we adopted from Guatemala. We have 4 dogs and a Poppy and hope to add another child to our family through adoption. This blog is about us.
