Life with Lily

Birthday, Christmas and school

2011-02-02T18:41:00.014-06:00

Just alot of fun pictures from the last few months....

Get Together

2010-10-05T17:06:00.014-05:00

It was so nice to get together with our travelmates this past weekend, the girls had alot of fun as did the adults watching them create new bonds as friends. Here are some of my favorite pictures, enjoy.

It's been forever!!!

2010-08-06T21:23:00.011-05:00

Just posting some summer pictures, some are from my parents 50th Wedding Anniversary, had a great time!!!

Vacation!!

2010-04-09T16:26:00.011-05:00

We recently went to Florida and had a great time!! Lily was a great traveler, spent most of the time just relaxing and hanging out by the pool. Lily was like a little fish, finally got her to put on her water rings things year and she was just swimming like a fish. Didn't have for the shallow, she wanted the deep water, daddy even taught her how to float on her back. It was nice to have both boys there this year as they get older you realize soon they maybe vacationing on their own, so it was nice. Enjoy the photos,my favorite is the ones of Lily on the Beach!!!!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-29T17:15:00.008-06:00

Lily so enjoyed Christmas this year and watching her tear into the present was so fun. Of course she got more then she needed so I am sure we will be packing up some old toys to donate soon. Another year has past and a year of new blessing and challenges begin. Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Our Baby is 3

2009-11-09T20:17:00.005-06:00

Lily turned 3 today and acts like she is 5!!! We had a family party yesterday at the gymnastics complex, she loves gymnastics and knew she would enjoy it. They got to participate in a class for and hour then cake, ice cream and of course the presents!!! Tonight we went out for Chinese came home to open present from mom and dad and have spent the evening playing playdough and her new Kai Lan toys which is her favorite thing to watch. Yesterday as I sat in church a sudden sadness came over me and I thought what is going on, then I remembered how sad this day would be for her birth mother, I am sure she was thinking of you today and I prayed that somehow she would know you were ok and oh so LOVED.

October is Over

2009-11-01T19:46:00.007-06:00

I can't believe it's November where is the time going? Last weekend we spent a few days with one of our travelmates, Michael, Gina and Olivia. We had such great time, Olivia and Lily were so funny together and Lily was amazed at the chickens. Thank you guys for such a great weekend. Here are some of photos of that weekend and Halloween, Lily loved it this year, but does not like to share her candy. LOL

Monkey see Monkey Do!!

2009-10-06T18:20:00.002-05:00

I can't believe how much Lily is talking, from the time she wakes up til her head hits the pillow. She even tells her big brothers, how they are in trouble and need to get home now, something she hears mommy say. The other day Nick was sick and Lily kept telling him, "Nick you need to take your medicine, your sick". So funny but he for some reason he became annoyed after about ten minutes of yelling it over and over. Lily also like to do everything mommy does, it really makes you more aware of your actions, nothing bad. LOL On the weekends I do the bathtime, Lily likes to do everything like mommy, from the washing hair to the drying off. After drying we blow our nose, comb our hair then brush our teeth, doing everything like mommy. The other day we were out shoppping and of course Lily had to go pee, mommy had to go too so in we went, Lily then announced very loudly in the bathroom, "good job mommy"! She is getting so big and a smart little burger, she is now counting to 20, knows the alphabet by sight and has started saying the days of the week in addition to letting everyone know her birthday is November 9th and she will be 3. So much fun and such a blessing!!!!

Summer is Over!!!

2009-08-26T19:58:00.003-05:00

Where is the world did summer go to? Lily keeps asking about going swimming, or to the ballgame or the soccer game, but I keep telling her summer is over to which her reply is, "oh no"!! We got to meet with Michael, Gina and Olivia before summer ended which was alot of fun, the girls always have so much fun together. Lily has also started taking gymnastic 2 weeks ago and she LOVES it!!! We are doing great in the potty training, thinks she is big enough for school but can't understand why she can't go? Soon enough sweetie, let's not rush it. Not really sure I am glad summer is over because it honestly just flew by, oh well guess I need to start thinking about Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas since they will probably be here before we know it. Hope everyone had a wonderful and relaxing summer:)

"Gotcha Day" 2 year anniversary

2009-07-29T20:25:00.023-05:00

I can't believe it's been 2yrs since we first met our Lily. She was not a very happy little girl that day, missing her foster mom very much. We are so thankful that she was well cared for and loved so much. I can remember after she had fallen asleep from crying so much that first evening just looking down on the bed and seeing that perfectly shaped little head covered with lot's of black hair and thinking, "wow we have been so blessed"!!! I was in love, and almost in disbelief that she was finally right there in front of me. She has brought us many laughs these past 2yrs and a little stress too, but what 2yr old doesn't. We still feel truly blessed that God has entrusted this precious little one to us and can't imagine life without her. Just some pictures from the last 2 yrs.

Blake is 21?!!!!!

2009-07-26T15:15:00.007-05:00

I apologize it's been forever since I posted last. Our biggest news is Blake officially moved out the first of June, took sometime to get use, I still get to see him since I am still doing his laundry (LOL) and every Tuesday we have a family diner night since that is Nicks's day off. Secondly and I don't know it 's possible because I am so young, that Blake turned 21 on July 23rd. LOL Anyway just some pictures from the last few weeks. Oh yes and we have a new puppy, he name is Yaddy and all I can say is Lily loves her, but poor puppy!!! LOL

Fathers Day and Get Together

2009-06-24T21:01:00.011-05:00

We had a wonderful Father's Day started out at church then off to my sisters for lunch and my nephews birthday, Lily really enjoyed the cake that day? LOL We then spent the day on Monday with our travelmates and had a wonderful time, I am so truly blessed to have them in our lives. The girls played great together made it clear to four o'clock before heading out, no naps even!!! The little brown slacks Lily is wearing are from Robin @ redthreadstitches, link on my blog. Robin, I love the pants the the matching shirts I ordered from Daleea off Cafe Express, please go to her page to place an order to help bring her Isabelle home:) Enjoy all the fun pictures!!!!!

Graduation, bad lipstick and first ball game

2009-06-20T21:12:00.010-05:00

Just wanted to post a few pictures, it has been very busy since Nick's graduation. The pictures are from Nick's graduation, some bad lipstick Lily found and Lily's first Cardinals game. Lily also found a new friend. There has been a stray cat roaming the neighborhood that she is crazy about, too bad Dad is allergic to cats...

Graduation is Near!!!

2009-05-25T19:37:00.012-05:00

Next Friday Nick will graduate from High School, how can that be??? We had a party for him this past Sunday and thank goodness the weather cooperated since we had over 60 people here!! We had a great time and I have to say a Big Thank You to my mother in-law who made Nick 2 wonderful scrapbook albums which took her over 5 months to make, thank you Dixie. We will have more pictures after graduation, enjoy.

2009-05-18T19:09:00.006-05:00

We recently got together with a local adoption group we are apart of and had such a great time. Although Lily was the youngest there she doesn't let that stop her from joining in on the fun. She actually plays with older kids (which are mostly boys) at daycare and can hold her own. She had a really good time playing with Cameron out in his dirt pile with the cars and trucks?? LOL Funny thing is she can jump and climb, get dirty then when Sunday morning comes around and she puts that dress on, she twirls around waiting for you to tell her how beautiful she looks, such a funny girl:)

Prom, Mothers Day and other stuff

2009-05-13T17:29:00.005-05:00

Just some pictures of Nick and his last prom:( Love the one with him, his brother in the tshirt and his buddies, one of the things I Love most about Nick is crazy personality and not afraid to still be a kid and have fun:( Not alot of pictures from Mother's Day not sure how that happened, but you can see in Lily's hand is a small purple flower, she came running to me yelling out, "Happy Mothers Day" and handed me that beautiful flower, talk about melting your heart:)

Still having one small health issue, my trigliceride count is extremely high, seeing a dietary consultant next week on how to get that lowered? From what I have read and been trying to do, not much alot of fun food on that diet. LOL On a good note, my diabetes test, thyroid test and mammogram all came back fine!!!!! Hope everyone is doing well and had a wonderful Mother's Day.

Home 1 day and in the hospital the next!!

2009-04-15T08:25:00.005-05:00

Home and doing fine now but on Saturday coming home I started to feel bad. Same time last month I was having alot of pain, called to get an appointment with my female doctor because I thought it was female related, they could not get me in for 3 weeks, dealt with the pain it was gone in about 3 days. So Saturday and all Sunday I started drinking lots of water and cranberry juice thinking it might be a bladder infection. Got to work on Monday and the pain was getting so bad I was in tears and feeling like I had to pee ALL the time. Again, called doctor, one week til I could get in, someone told me of a walk in clinic decided to go that route,they didn't come in til noon, by then I was really crying, thank goodness the receptionist felt bad and had me see a nurse, took a urine test and ask alot of question. One of the doctors there said he would see me, bless his heart, I cannot tell you how thankful I was to him. Anyway he thought I might have a kidney stone, went had a CT, he asked they I come back over to see him. Said the stone was VERY large 6mm I guess was large for a stone, wanted to check me into the hospital right then. Thank goodness they had given me a shot for the pain!!!! So now I am on nothing but liquids til midnight, didn't eat breakfast, and at midnight the liquids stopped, xray at 6am surgery at 1:00pm which means I didn't eat for 45hrs!!!! The woman in the next bed had emergency surgery at midnight so let's say I got about 3 hours of sleep that night. I have to say I was a little scared at first, the doctor doing the suregery actually goes to my church and does these procedure over in Haiti once a year at no charge, was wonderful and even came in to say a prayer with me before the surgery since I was a little worried. He had told me earlier they may have to put a stint in, well as you know my grandmother passed away about 2 months ago while having stints put in, so I was a little worried. Well, the stone was removed with no stint needed, doctor said it was lodged in there pretty good, Jeff said it looked like a bone grinded with little spikes everywhere, that's why I was in so much PAIN!!! Just glad to be home, in little pain still, took my vicodin and headed to take a nap now, boy that stuff is strong and I only took one. I still have another stone in my right kidney only 1mm though, said I might think of a procedure where you sit in a bath like where there sounds waves break it down?? Doctor said other stone was too large for that process, anyway so very thankful this did not happen in Florida!!! Ready to get back to normal. Jeff has been amazing, thank you honey and the boys both stepped up to help with Lily so much, she came to see mommy, pretty wild so she didn't get to stay too long kept trying to jump on my belly. So sweet before she left she said, "by mommy now lay down" LOL

Wonderful Vacation!!

2009-04-12T17:59:00.016-05:00

Well, we got back aroung 12:30 am Sunday, 17 hour trip home and Lily did amazing!!! We had a hotel booked for about 10 hours into the trip but Lily was being so good we decided to go the whole way. She then decided she was wide awake at 1:30 am and finally wound down about 2:00am and getting up at 7:00am, needless to say we are tired!!! The weather was great, had a couple cool days but we used those for shopping and Disney. I have to say, Lily enjoyed Disney and loved the rides but compared to the other theme parks the Disney rides seem really outdated, just my opinion. lol We also spent one day at the Beach in Clearwater, kind of disappointed there too, it had a ton of sea weed, but again Lily was great and enjoyed playing in the sand. It was so much fun to see Lily, Sammy and Sophie together!!! Lily, loves the water and has no fear, refuses to wear water rings and walks around in the pool til it hits her chin, then she says, "too deep" turns around and head back. She was jumping off the sides and eventually doing the nest tea pludge backwards into the water!!!! Anyway, had a great time, glad to be home and headed back to work tomorrow:)

Headed to Florida!!!

2009-04-02T18:12:00.003-05:00

We will be heading out tomorrow morning for Florida, bags are packed, house is clean, sunshine here we come!!! LOL Will post pictures soon:)

Wonderful Weekend!!!

2009-03-23T18:31:00.008-05:00

Well we got to spend the weekend with our travelmates and had a wonderful time. To see those sweet little faces jumping around in the pool was amazing!!! We went to Rockfor Il and stayed at the Clock Tower Resort that had a wonderful indoor water park the girls really enjoyed. We ate pizza in the room on Saturday then out for lunch Sunday before heading home, it just brings so much joy to my heart to see these sweet litle angels all the way from Fujian playing together and my hope is that this amazing bond continues to grow as the grow. We Love you Olivia and Zoie!!!!! I took a few pictures but am hoping Gina has some to share, she took a ton of photos and is quite the photographer, check her site soon for some "good" photos :)

Good News!!!

2009-03-19T19:52:00.005-05:00

First, we are so excited because we will be getting together with our travel group from China. Cannot wait to see Lily, Olivia and Zoie together again, it means so much to us for these girls to stay in contact and have that one common thread keep them bonded for life. Here is a photo of all the girls in China.

Next, Nick got his license back!!! Well, he is on court supervision for 3 months but can drive during that time. Once the three months is up and he has NOT gotten any tickets, his last ticket will be dropped and he will have a clear record again since he has officially passed the first 2 years which means he cannot get 2 tickets within the next two years.

Lastly, Lily is officially done with speech. We had three woman over on Wednesday to talk about her progress and she no longer qualifies for the program which is a good thing!!!!!! They said there are hardly any kids in the program who "graduate" out early so we were thrilled. She is is doing great with her speech, putting 5-6 words together now, knows about 10 colors a few shapes, sings most of the alphabet and can recognize about 10 letters by sight!!! She loves puzzles, reading books, building blocks, playdoh and really getting into coloring, she jumps and climbs on everything and is quit limber, she can stand on one leg while holding the other up in the air with her knee near her shoulder, girl has balance!!! She has also moved into a Full size bed, after my grandmas passing we were blessed to be given one of her mattress sets which fit Lily's 4in1 crib my parents bought for her. She LOVES it, the first night I think she jumped around for 1 hour before I could actually get her to lay down. I will have to post pictures once I find that "right" bedspread. Who would have thought it would be this hard to find bedding for a girl???

Alot of Stuff

2009-02-23T18:02:00.005-06:00

Just some fun pictures from last couple of months.

This last month or so has bee a little crazy and I apologize for so much time in between post. Nick got notice a little over 3 weeks ago he was losing his license for 1 yr!!!!!! He had 2 tickets in 24 months, we are still working on that, forgot what it was like having to drive your kid around, but I think we are making head way thanks to grandpa knowing the State's Attorney

Then, two weeks ago today my Grandma passed away very unexpectedly. She went in to have 2 stints put in for poor circulation to the legs, after a long surgery something was hit and the bleeding they were hoping would stop. Once she was taking to ICU they very quickly realized the blood was not clotting and she sadly bleed to death. Although she had been wanting to be with Jesus for a long time, not the way we have hoped she would go. But now she is in the presence of God our King and singing his praises and seeing the man she had loved for so many years here on earth.

Things are now slowing back down and we are preparing for a long needed trip to Florida the first of April, so ready for the sun and just laying around.

Hope everyone else is doing great, will stop by to visit you all soon:)

Birthday Party

2009-01-22T19:05:00.005-06:00

Well my baby boy turned 18 last Friday, we had a family party at home and as usual it was a little crazy. My nephew fell running and hit his ear on the corner of the steps and punctured clear through his ear and even left a small cut on the head where it went through the ear!!!!!!!!!!!!! After some bleeding and tears he was ready to eat cake and ice cream and play with all the cousins, thank goodness the rest of the evening was a little calmer. Here are some photos from that night:) A couple of Lily and her cousin Sohpie who is from Guatemala playing in Lily's room was just soooooo sweet, I told my sister in about a year they will run up to Lily's room to play and leave poor Samuel out. He did manage to make it into the bedroom and played with Lily's new dollhouse, so sweet to seem all play together:)

Time Out??

2009-01-02T20:23:00.003-06:00

Am I a stinker??

What causes a timeout? Well today the two brothers babysat for Lily, my first text came asking what in the world we fed her for breakfast, eggs and an orange, "well she has Pooped twice already." LOL Next call I get, "guess what your daughter did now"? While Blake was emptying the dishwasher Lily decided to dump her baby powder on the carpet and end tables, just got the carpets cleaned Wednesday, oh well they smell good!! That did manage to get a time out, too scared to get down because the sweeper was running would be my guess of how they got her to stay! LOL Now the dog, we have a beagle who is 14 and Lily bugs the heck out of her, her next time out came from chasing the dog around the house pushing her highchair, which she finds very funny, Lily not the dog. LOL Anyway they all made it through the day and when I came home Lily and Blake both were fast asleep one on the couch the other in the chair, guess they both had a rough day.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T21:24:00.009-06:00

We hope everyone had a great Christmas. Here are a few photos we would like to share. We all had a great Christmas and Lily really enjoyed opening her presents. She also had fun making Christmas cookies. I think that she liked eating the candy sprinkles more than decorating the cookie, but she still had fun.

Where has the time gone???

2008-12-03T20:47:00.002-06:00

Oh my goodness I cannot believe I have not posted in about a month!! When I went to upload some new pictures I could not believe how long Lily's hair is getting, guess you see it everyday and don't notice it. She also go her first busted lip, on Thanksgiving day she was walking with her eyes covered up and walked right into the table giving her a bloody lip, the next day I was trying to scrub what I thought was ink of her face and realized that evening she was getting a nice little bruise. We got family photos the other night but Lily was NOT in a good mood and starting to get sick hope to post them soon but will have to take Lily back for her individuals, it was not pretty. Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving and looking forward to an amazing and blessed Christmas.

My Baby is 2!!!!!

2008-11-10T16:27:00.005-06:00

Lily celebrated her 2nd birthday on Sunday, her celebration actually started with party Saturday evening, one Sunday afternoon, followed by Chinese at our favorite restaurant. It was so sweet as soon as we walked in the young gal said, "oh it's Lily's birthday" can't believed she remembered, she also gave her a sweet gift, she along with her husband are from Fujian and always treat Lily like a little princess when she comes in:) She had a great time, can't believe she is already 2 though, where did the last year go?

I wondered that day, did her birth mother remember it was her birthday? I am sure she did and probably shed a few tears, as we said our prayers that night we prayed that somehow her mother would know she was safe and very much loved. As I looked down at Lily with her little hands crossed peeking up at me as we prayed I thanked God for the mother who gave her life and for allowing me to take over when she had to let go.
254.photobucket.com/albums/hh91/customblogdesigns/amyM/amybug.png">

Trick or Treat

2008-10-31T22:34:00.007-05:00

Lily really enjoyed Halloween this year, it started last week going to 2 church truck or treat parties, the YMCA, followed by a party at daycare yesterday morning. First, her favorite treat are SUCKERS, think she had at least 4 last night. She started out a little clingy but by the third house is was a pro. She loved knocking on the doors although I am pretty sure they couldn't hear her little taps but once in she was headed straight toward the candy bowl picking out a few for herself. She was a trooper and was not in bed til 10:30pm, thinking she would sleep in, ha!! she was up at 6:30 asking for Kai Lin to be put on followed by a whining spell because she wanted a sucker for breakfast,ok I gave in but it was followed by a bowl of cereal, think we are going to need to hide the candy and she's not even 2 yet!!!! Just a few pictures of a cute little St. Louis Cardinal Cheerleader

Let's figure out....... What to do?!!!

2008-10-27T18:11:00.008-05:00

Up until about 3 weeks ago Lily was really not interested in watching tv, I would put on ni hao, Kai-lan, she liked the music and would watch about 5 minutes and then be off again. Well that has changed, she now loves ni hao Kai-lan and wants to watch it all the time!!!!! We have almost all of them on the dvr and so she now yells out K when she wants it on, which is way too cute, but boy I think we are all getting tired of it. LOL Every once in a while you can sneak in a Backyardigans and she will watch it, but nothing else. I have bought the only dvd out which came with a cute HoHo doll and I am really hoping they start merchandising some of the other characters. I am excited that of all the shows she could watch she picked this one, she will yell out the Chinese words when Kai-lan ask, it is just way tooooo cute!!!!

Home Coming and Hong Kong Guide

2008-10-10T19:39:00.010-05:00

Over the last few weeks Nick has had his Home Coming followed by a reception we attended welcoming our guide from China here to the states. There were over 200 hundred who attended all eager to say hello to a woman who was amazing and made our time in China wonderful. Have some photos of Nick and Lily before the Home Coming and then some at the reception of Lily and her friends Olivia and Maimie. It was so nice to see everyone again, it was a fun evening but wow did Lily wear me out. She had 2 naps that day and was full of it!!!! She would just go up to anyone, climb up on a chair and enjoy whatever snacks they may be having, girl is not shy. LOL Again, we have just been so busy lately, and preparing for the BIG 2 yr birthday party here in a few weeks. :) Hope everyone is having a wonderful Fall!!!!!

We Slept in our Bed!!!

2008-09-29T19:21:00.010-05:00

So, we have had 2 nights in a row of Lily sleeping in her crib ALL night!!!! We spent about an hour the other night playing in her room, she has always liked being in there just not sleeping in there. That night she fell asleep in our bed and Jeff moved her in her bed around 10:00pm and she slept until 6:30!!! You would think that meant a good night sleep, but I think I got up and checked on her at least 4 times. LOL Anyway the following night she actually fell asleep in her bed, so we are making great progress :)

We also went to Fox Ridge State Park on Sunday, the weather was great and Lily had a great time playing outside, hopefully this will not be one of the State Parks closing on November 1.

Jeff and I also had our first date night since coming on with Lily which was almost 14 months ago!!! We went with a group from church to see the new movie called "Fireproof". Our town of 20,000 was originally not going to show the movie because they didn't not think there would be much interest but after several phone calls I am thrilled to say that ALL showings SOLD out. If you have a chance to see it please go, it was a wonderful movie on relationships and how God can bring any relationship closer together.

Busy!!

2008-09-18T19:33:00.008-05:00

Well we have been pretty busy with soccer games these last two weeks, Nick scored 3 goals in the game the other night for a hat trick!!! Let's just say he was very excited. Just a few pictures from this last week, Lily's new thing is just pull her pants down. She will be outside playing when all of a sudden you look over and she has her pants down, she finds it very funny. We also started some speech classes last week for Lily, first session she says 5 new words!!!! I will do the same thing with her as the speech therapist and she just stares at me, then for the lady, who Lily really likes just tries every work she asked her to say???!!! I think once we can can the pacifier gone,she will be talking none stop. Have a great weekend :)

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-02T11:06:00.008-05:00

We didn't do a whole lot over the weekend. It was nice to just stay home and relax. Nick had three soccer games Friday and Saturday. He did really well on Friday, he scored two goals and got his picture on the front page of the local newspaper. He thought that was pretty cool. Today (tues) I had the day off from work and took Lily to a nearby state park and went for a bike ride. She loves to be outside and is so curious about everything around her. It is fun to stand back and just watch her.

Dress and Reunion

2008-08-26T18:05:00.006-05:00

Deleea has started a wonderful site called One Child at a Time the link is located over on my sidebar that has wonderful items up for auction with all the money going to help Star Fish/surgery fund. I have been bidding for a while and finally won this wonderful dress by www.http://redthreadstitches.blogspot.com. Lily wore it on Sunday and although it's a little big she looked adorable and will wear it again next year I amsure, and isn't it beautiful!!!! Thank you Robin we got several wonderful comments on the dress Sunday, Robin is sewing to help bring her daughter Mia Hope home from China.

Last month we also had a family reunion, 2yrs ago while attending we found that a relative had 2 daughters from China. It was was so nice for the girls to finally meet. The oldest Hannah is learning to sew and made Lily an adorable hat and was also working on a blanket for friends expecting, amazing little girl.

Pay It Forward

2008-08-18T20:01:00.005-05:00

A while back the blog world was Paying It Forward, I got in a little late and recently received a wonderful gift from Sindy@ http://lifewithallisonandsassie.blogpspot.com Thank you Sindy what a thoughtful and wonderful gift.

I am now wanting to forward a gift onto the first person who replies, Steven Curtis Chapman's cd "Cinderella" Hope you enjoy it as much as I have:)

Let the Olympics Begin!!!!!

2008-08-08T11:24:00.013-05:00

I have always loved the Olympics and am so excited they are being held in China!!!! That special bond you feel to your daughters birth place makes it even a little more exciting this time. Some of my favorite events would be gymnastics, diving and swimming, I can't wait to see the opening ceromonies. Here is a sneak peak of some photos I found on line, enjoy!!!!

1 yr!!!!

2008-07-28T13:53:00.009-05:00

July 29, 2007, was a Sunday morning we had just landed in Hong Kong the night before then got up early to catch our flight to Fujian. One would have thought we would have been exhausted but we were too excited to think about being tired. I remember Jeff saying the first time he really "felt" like he was in China was when we landed in Fujian where outside the door the Chinese flag was flying. We got checked in then Jeff and Nick headed down to the market with our guide to get some things we might need. While during the waiting Jeff had a vivid dream of a long walk coming up to a small waterfall, wouldn't you know the almost exact same waterfall was at our Lake Side hotel in Fuzhou??? We soon headed downstairs to meet with our guides then shortly heading back up to the 3rd floor to meet our girls. I have never passed out in my life or became light headed, but I tell you have have NEVER been so nervous in my life. I can remember being light headed and my legs shaking so bad I thought for sure I was going to drop. Once we sat down my legs were shaking uncontrolably. Then enters a middle aged woman carrying a child, I wasn't sure, was it Lily??? They brought her in and took some photos of her and the lady, I sat there thinking how adorable she was!!! After a small mishap Lily was handed to us and immediately started screaming. All the photos show a little one very upset who was very attached to her Foster Mom, for that we are grateful. It was a rough first few hours, Lily finally fell asleep from exhaustion, but suprisingly the next morning she seems a little more relaxed, with Nick and daddy that is, and within time warmed up to me too:)

I cannot tell you what a blessing she has been to our family. She just fits in so perfectly, she can be rough and wild with the boys, cuddle with her daddy, twirl around when she has a new dress waiting for compliments, then wants lipstick on like mommy. Everything we ever could have wanted, thanks to God's timing and his perfect will. We are truly Blessed!!!!!

Wonderful Weekend!!!!

2008-07-26T19:22:00.013-05:00

We had such a great weekend!! One of our travel families, Michael, Gina and Miss Olivia came for a visit over the weekend, there seems to a be a bond started!!! Although the girls have been around each other in the past they have been too young to really play. We wanted more of a home setting where they could be themselves and have time to really play and get familair with each other. Our hopes are that as the years go by all the girls will know the special bond they share. Of course we ate too much and were all exhausted by the end of the weekend, but so worth it all. Thanks for such a great weekend guys!!!! Enjoy the pictures!!!!

Does God Speak To Us??

2008-07-18T11:10:00.004-05:00

I just received this email from a friend, and although I have seen it before it still brings tears to my eyes. God does speak to us, do we listen? I had always wanted a daughter growing up, I would name her Morgan after my maiden name, but strangley after the birth of my two boys the desire was gone, I became content with our family of four. God had another plan though, he had spoken to my husbands heart and he was listening, thank you Honey. It was a few years later, never dreaming my daughter would come as I was reaching 40, but what a blessing we have received from "listening to God"!! Oh by the way she was just a "Lily" from the start.

"A young man had been to Wednesday Night Bible Study. The Pastor had shared about listening to God and obeying the Lord's voice. The young man couldn't help but wonder, 'Does God still speak to people?' After service, he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed the message. Several different ones talked about how God had led them in different ways. It was about ten o'clock when the young man started driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, 'God...If you still speak to people, speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey.' As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest
thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, 'God is that you?' He didn't get a reply and started on toward home. But again, the thought, buy a gallon of milk. The young man thought about Samuel and how he didn't recognize the voice of God, and how little Samuel ran to Eli. 'Okay, God, in case that is you, I will buy the milk.' It didn't seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home. As he passed Seventh Street, he again felt the urge, 'Turn Down that street.' This is crazy he thought, and drove on past the intersection. gain, he felt that he should turn down Seventh Street. At the next intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly, he said out loud, 'Okay, God, I will.' He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt like he should stop He pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in a semi-commercial area of town. It wasn't the best but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either. The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark like the people were already in bed. Again, he sensed something, 'Go and give t he milk to the people in the house across the street.' The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. 'Lord, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be mad and I will look stupid.' Again, he felt like he should go and give the milk. Finally, he opened the door, 'Okay God, if this is you, I will go tothe door and I will give them the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess that will count for something, but if they don't answer right away, I am out of here.' He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled out, 'Who is it? What do you want?' Then the door opened before the young man could get away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn't seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep. 'What is it?' The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, 'Here, I brought this to you.' The man took the milk and rushed down a hallway. Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man began speaking and half crying, 'We were just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking God to show me how to get some milk.' His wife in the kitchen yelled out, 'I ask him to send an Angel with some. Are you an Angel?' The young man reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He turned and walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face. He knew that God still answers prayers."

Enough with the Rain!!!!

2008-07-14T20:22:00.003-05:00

Saturday it stormed all day!!! Think we got about 4 inches, electricity went out for a few hours and lightning and thunder so loud it made you jump. I honestly do not remember storms like this in a long time!!! Enough Rain!!!

Big Brothers

2008-07-11T18:20:00.006-05:00

I decided this post would be about Lily's big brothers Blake and Nick.

Blake will be turning 20 on July 23rd and is currently working for a construction company while going through his 4 year training program to become a carpenter. He works hard sometimes getting up at 4am to start off his 10 hr day. He is so amazing with Lily and she loves him so much, there are even nights after a long day of work he will watch her if I have a meeting to go to. So many evenings we will just hang out and the boys will entertain Lily, the music will be going and they will all be dancing around acting crazy. Lily loves for Blake to throw her in the air and raise her to the ceiling so she can crawl like spider man!! She also likes to see Blake jump and touch his toes, she thinks this is hilarious and also likes for him to be "the bridge" so she can climb under him.

Nick is 17 and is going to be a senior, he loves soccer and works part time for Verizon, think he is gonna be quit the salesman, he just won an envy2 phone and even gave it to me, what a kid!!! Nick also gives up some of his summer time to babysit for Lily. He always let's her sit on his lap while he is down loading music and they both just jam away. LOL Nick also as alot more energy then the rest of us, so Lily is thrilled when he plays chase or hide and seek throughout the house. Lily has had a special bond with Nick since gotcha day, she preferred him over me for the first several days in China, and he was wonderful with her.

I cannot tell you how proud I have been of them, they are so wonderful with their little sister and love her more then I could ever have dreamed of. Most nights even though Lily is in bed asleep they have to peek in to give her a little kiss goodnight, just warms my heart so much. It has been such a blessing to see this bond between them grown and I know one day they are going to be AMAZING dads!!!!!!

Steven Curtis Chapman

2008-07-11T09:24:00.003-05:00

This is an insert of Jim Houser's blog today who is Steven Curtis Chapman's assistant. Steven, sons Will and Caleb will be perfoming tonight in OshKosh WI for the first time since the accident, PLEASE keep them all in your prayers.

"Why?
So, now you know... the three appearances that have been confirmed out of the hundred plus invites the Chapmans had. As of now, this will be all. Perhaps 1 or 2 others... but perhaps, no more interviews in 2008. Today's "major" post... Why? Why go through it? Why do these?

These appearances were cautiously, carefully, and prayerfully considered with input from the family, pastors, counselors, and Steven's team. Though you have heard about them in the space of this week, they have been discussed, pondered, prayed over, and planned for several weeks now. And yes, it's no coincidence they hit in the space of the same week, we're trying to bump into people we might not normally see.

The Chapmans didn't seek these appearances. But when these many opportunities came, the discussion centered around the opportunity to use them to remember and celebrate Maria, to thank the tens of thousands who have sent condolences as well as the the hundreds of thousands or more that have prayed for this family, to highlight adoption and orphans...

and most importantly that the Hope of the Gospel be proclaimed.

It's our hope that this is what will be accomplished, that as many as possible will be reached, especially those that would not hear of it any other way... and we seek your prayers as the family endeavors to do so in these interviews.

Also, I know many of you ache to see them, to see for yourself if they are ok... I hope you'll be encouraged.

In 14 years in the music industry, it's only been a handful of times an artist I've work alongside has appeared on an outlet as large as Good Morning America. The reach is amazing, the people associated with this program are stellar in their professionalism and abilities. And yet... I wish with all that is in me I was not meeting GMA host, Robin Roberts, on July 21(airing in August)... Not under these circumstances.

And though I studied journalism in college and remain fascinated with it, I would choose not to be in the same room with journalistic icon Larry King on Aug 7th... Not under these circumstances.

And for that matter, our quotes and Steven's photos in People Magazine seen all over the world, and again via an interview on July 14, fantastic... no, not now... Not under these circumstances.

Friends, God did not let us choose. And this is how it is. And so we walk on, hoping to honor Him as we do.

I've just shared some critical dates with you. Do pray, will you please?

I type from a bus headed north to Wisconsin for the first show since the accident. An overflowing e-mail inbox, malfunctioning iPhone... and questions in my head keep me awake. How will it feel? Did we wait too long? What will he say? Is it too soon? Will Will and Caleb be able to play? Will he be able to sing? to finish? Is it wrong to have fun? How is Mary Beth doing? These roll through my head for God tonight.

I'm certain that we've prepared and sought counsel and prayed as well as we can... and am believing that now is the right time... and that God has led us and what He for this weekend of shows is just as it needs to be for each of us.

I'm trusting Him to get this family through. So... the Gosepl better be true.
I've said that to God countless times over these last weeks.
I trust that it is.
Pray on friends."

Blog Make-Over

2008-07-08T08:47:00.002-05:00

A big thank you to Diana for the blog make over, I love it!!!! I really wanted something to show Lily's personality and this is perfect. Cool thing too, I found out Diana lives not too far from me and I am hoping to make it to one of her digital scrapbooking classes she offers.

THANKS AGAIN!!!!!

Busy Holiday Weekend!!!

2008-07-05T21:22:00.012-05:00

We had a very busy FUN filled Fourth of July!! Lily got to go to her first parade, the sirens did not phase her at all she was too busy eating candy!!!! Daddy said is was a holiday so she could eat as much as she wanted and I was shocked when she took a nap. We then when to my parents for a cookout and fireworks. It was a little cold to swim although Lily didn't seem to mind and the other kids jumped in the bigger pool later on. Blake and Nick enjoyed riding the motorcycles most of the day, which always make me nervous, I even took a short ride and ok, they are fun!!!! The following day we went to Lisa and Eric's house for a cookout, it was so much fun. The kids seem to have a great time as did we, and it was fun to see Ava, Lily, Becca an d Graham together. We are tired now, but had such a wonderful weekend!!!! Enjoy the pictures!!!!

2008-07-03T20:50:00.006-05:00

Seems like our Lily is starting to act a little more like a toddler then a baby:( She is starting to be really be independent, starting to "role play" with certain toys. She loves being outside and has learned how to open the backgate, she will just wave good bye and wonder around the yard, so serious, like she is really going somewhere. She is also getting use to her sandbox but prefers not to sit in it. She is showing a little of her attitude while eating her popsicle, it's so funny she will give you the brows down look, then turn around open her eyes wide and just smile, girl is full of personality!!! And lastly, her convertible bug car, is she cool or what ???? Thank goodness we have a few years before she's driving especially since she prefers to go in reverse. LOL

Good News!!

2008-06-25T15:08:00.007-05:00

Since getting home Lily's ears have been clogged, a hard wax they have not been able to get out. Doctor said is was almost like concrete, Jeff had read where 60% of Asians have this hard wax compared to the soft wax most people have. So first visit with ear doctor he said he would not touch them, it was too hard. So, we have been on ear drops for the last 3 weeks, went in today and it was soft enough to suck out the wax. He said he would have to strap her down but if it got too traumatic he would have to gas her, luckily even though she was screaming and crying he was able to get the wax out!!!!! He said the ear drums looked fine and seemed to be functioning well, so NO hearing test was needed, praise God. Here are finally some photos of Lily and daddy from Father's Day and a few from this past weekend.

Weekend Photos

2008-06-16T17:18:00.005-05:00

This past weekend the weather was wonderful for Father's Day. Here are a few pictures, but I am having problems getting the one of Lily and daddy and the boys and dad uploaded?? The boys got their dad a new bike, we both have bikes now and Lily now has her seat hoping to get some bike riding in. Lily got her daddy the new Steven Curtis Chapman cd called "This Moment, Cinderella edition", wonderful music any dad would love. Lily also has a new friend, Greta, the neighbors got a new dog and Lily just loves her, they have found several pacifiers in their yard, Lily likes to share. LOL Jeff said one day Lily gave the dog her pacifier, it was perfectly in the dogs mouth and she was running around, didn't get a photo, but Jeff said it was hilarious. We also had our first (1) pigtail this weekend, exciting for mommy. We also went to Jeff's dads house for a cookout and as you can see Lily LOVES the water and has so no fear at all. It was such a great weekend, a time to be thankful for the wonderful children God has entrusted to us, remember to show them lot's of love and give lot's of hugs too. And of course to be thankful for the wonderful fathers we have!!!

Tagged!!!

2008-06-11T10:37:00.003-05:00

My friend Colleen from http://crazy-eight.blogspot.com/ whom I think is amazing, she had 4 boys, 2 girls and waiting on another one!!!!! Lady had alot of energy!!!!!! Anyway, she has tagged me with 5 questions, and I have to say they look a little hard, but I will try :)

5 Things I was doing 10yrs ago???

(1) I was staying home and doing daycare so I could be home when my boys got out of school and during the summer months.

(2) Both boys were in baseball so I am sure I was spending alot of nights at the ball diamond including my husbands games, he played church leauge softball.

(3) Summer months always brought VBS at church and I along with 2 others headed that up, which was alot of hours but also very rewarding.

(4) Can't think of anything else other them cookouts with family and days spent at the swimming pool???

5 Things on my list to do today???

(1) Having lunch with my hubby and sweet Lily.

(2) After work Lily and I will probably just have supper then hang out playing in the backyard.

(3) Actually today is a pretty light day.

(4) Ok, I really need to go through my closet and clean it out, so I will try!!!!

(5) Onces Lily is done destroying the house I will try to pick up a little before going to bed.

5 Favorite snack foods????

(1) Candy bar (any kind)

(2) Rice Krispy Treats

(3) Mountain Trail Mix

(4) Cheetos

(5) Cashews

5 Things I would do if I were a billionaire????

(1) Adopt alot more kids!!!!!

(2) Pay for Our new church to be built

(3) Makes sure family had enough

(4) Spend alot of time in China, helping orphans

(5) New home, cars and other toys.

5 Places I have lived????

(1) and only 1- Mattoon, Illinois LOL

I am now tagging the following:

http://www.mgdtochina.blogspot.com/

http://journeytoregan.blogspot.com/

http://www.odonnellchinagirl2006.blogspot.com/

http://lifewithallisonandsassie.blogspot.com/

http://www.dwimble.com/

Thanks, Amy

1yr anniversary of Referral

2008-06-05T21:43:00.003-05:00

1yr. WOW!!!!!! We woke up very anxious that morning of June 6th knowing referrals had hit the west coast the day before, and hoping to get the call soon. I had gone to work as planned and had informed my sw to call my cell phone since Jeff would also be at work and could not be reached. (really)!! LOL Checking the RQ site frequently calls had been made and announcements were popping up everywhere. I was starting to worry, would we get the call, maybe they won't get them til tomorrow??!!! I had been in touch with my travelmates Gina and Candi all morning waiting to see if they had heard anything yet? I decided to go ahead and try to eat lunch, it was an Arby's market fresh sandwich, I will never forget. I was sitting with a couple of co-workers. had about half my sandwich gone, had just taken a bite and my phone rang. Why it was sitting on my desk I don't know, so I jump up, food in my mouth, not knowing what to do, my friend Lane yells, "spit it out" so as I am spitting my food out, I trip over my own feet while running to my desk before the call ends. I see my caller ID, it's my agency, my heart is pounding, hands shaking and she announces, "we got your referral in". Of course I cried trying to remember what I should be asking, she said that's all she knew and would call me back. Ok, so do I have a daughter, how old? So now I frantically call Jeff not really knowing anything yet but wanted him to know that the referrals had come in and that I would be calling him back soon. I knew nothing for another hour other then we had a child waiting for us. The wait was long but at least I was able to get my thoughts together about what I needed to ask. The call, "you have a daughter just under 7 months old named Li Zhang living in YouXi City Fujian, didn't know where it was, all I could think was I have a 7 month old daughter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Call Jeff again to give him the news, we now sit at home several phone calls and emails later dreaming of what our little one will look like, waiting for the morning when we will receive our package........................................

Anticipation!!

2008-06-04T12:57:00.004-05:00

As we come upon our 1yr anniversary of our referral on June 6th, I have gone back through some emails I had sent to my travelmates Gina and Candi. Boy am I glad that wait is long behind us now, my heart on the other hand cannot imagine what those are going through who are still waiting and not knowing when?? Although I know all have heard this many times but, It Is So Worth the Wait, hang in there. (((hugs)))

Here are a few quotes made prior to the sixth:

"I really just wanted to stay in bed and not get out until we heard SOMETHING!!!!!!"
"Now I sit and work and all we really know is nothing, boy what a long day this is gonna be......"
"I may lose it!!!!!!!!!!! "I am going crazy. LOL" "Oh my gosh when are they coming? I honestly did not want to get out of bed this morning." " stressed here!!!!!!!!!!"
"I could tell I was on the verge of a cry and of course as soon as I got to work they asked, "any news" and I lost it only for about a minute "Oh well, let's just pray for strength to get through today and hope for some good news tomorrow :)
"Ok, Rosie on the Nov group just posted she got an email from her agency saying the stork is about to land!!!!! I am so emotional and so tired of so many let downs, what to believe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
"Where are you girls, referrals have hit the west coast!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
"Thanks Monica, I am in tears also and my hands are shaking just waiting for my phone to ring. I hope it's today and soon."
"Ok, I am getting really anxious now, I really want to call and see if they are even expecting a package today but I am chicken"

To someone who has not adopted and been waiting for the call, I may appear to be a little crazy in my prior statements, but for those of you who have lived it, I am totally SANE, well maybe!! LOL I will share about the actual call on the 6th, I still cannot believe it's been almost a year!!!!

Amy

A day at the zoo

2008-06-01T17:44:00.009-05:00

We had such a great weekend!!! We had decided to meet up with some of our travelmates, Mike, Gina and Olivia this past weekend at the St. Louis Zoo, our other family was not able to come (we missed you). It was so nice to get together with them again. After spending two weeks in China together, there will always be that special bond and we hope to keep in touch so that they girls will grow up knowing that special bond they share as well. The day was kind of warm and humid, our first stop was the childrens zoo where they had a petting zoo, the girls really enjoyed petting the goats, we had passed the water going in but decided to leave that for the end of the day. We didn't see too many of the animals most were hiding in the shade away from the heat and sun. The girls enjoyed the birds but got most excited over the penguins!!! It was so much fun to see how excited they got each time the penguins dived in, they girls were right at eye level and Lily was really letting out some screams of her excitement, it was so funny!!!!! They really enjoyed the monkeys as well, we ended the day back at the water where they girls got to cool down. They did really well considering the water was freezing and there were alot of older kids running around, but thankfully no collisions!!! Even though the girls are really too young to play together yet, we did get Lily to give out some hugs to Olivia, not sure Olivia was thrilled, but it was so sweet to see. Thanks for a great weekend guys!!!!!

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T15:59:00.007-05:00

We had a good time Memorial Day, even though the weather wasn't very nice it was fun to see the kids play together. This was really the first time that Lily and Sophie had a chance to run around together. As you can see in one of the pictures it looks like Lily is blaming Sophie for something. It is going to be neat watching them grow up together.

Sad News

2008-05-22T11:17:00.004-05:00

Such tragic news of the death of Stephen Curtis Chapmans youngest daughter Maria who was killed on Wednesday evening. My heart just breaks for that family right now, please keep them in your prayers and extra special prayers for their son.

Our decision to adopt was made after attending one of Stephen's concert back in November of 2004 and we will be forever grateful that God used him to plant that seed in our hearts. He has such a huge passion for the orphaned children of China and has done amazing things through his Shaohannah's Hope Organization. They have set up a memorial fund for Maria on their site https://secure2.convio.net/ccsh/site/Donation2?idb=1366927205&df_id=1560&1560.donation=form1&JServSessionIdr007=0o5f5p0tx4.app14a they have also set up a family blog which shows a small glimpse of the amazing spirit of sweet Maria. http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/inmemoryofmaria Again, I cannot image the loss and pain they are feeling right now, all we can do is pray that God will continue to carry them through this unimageable time.

Silly Stuff!!!

2008-05-15T20:20:00.005-05:00

Ok, so the last few days have had me a bit down so I decided it was time for some silly photos. Last Saturday my sister and I had a rummage sale and Miss Lily found these pom poms, she loves them and even tries to jump, her knees bend but her little feet don't leave the floor, but she tries. LOL Next, I had my womans Bible study tonight and when I walked in the door there was evidence there may have been brownies made, then I saw the photos, daddy let her lick the bowl. LOL Let's just says it's past her bedtime and she is running around like a wild woman, daddy is staying awake til she winds down tonight. LOL

Earthquakes

2008-05-14T15:21:00.003-05:00

As the days pass since the devistating earthquake that hit China, I find my heart still very much attached to my daughters birth place. My heart grieves for those who have lost loved ones and for those still waiting to hear any news about their loved ones. Please keep them in your prayers. It's hard to explain but I feel a connection to them and when I see the photos of the little ones I see my daughter and my heart is so thankful she is here safe with me. Many of the orphanages are needing supplies such as water, formula and diapers, if you feel lead here are 3 links to organization sending supplies over, http://www.halfthesky.org , http://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/earthquake.cfm , http://www.ocdf.org

I talked with a gentleman at our local Chinese restaraunt, I commented I had not seen his wife in a while, he said she had gone back to China, my heart sunk, he smiled and said don't worry, she is fine I talked to her last night, I was so thankful.......

Mother's Day weekend!!!

2008-05-11T19:42:00.009-05:00

Other then the weather being cold, rainy and very windy we had a great Mother's Day weekend. I am so truly thankful for the wonderful mother I had growing up, and for my three wonderful children God has blessed me with.

Sophie!!!!!!

2008-05-05T13:45:00.003-05:00

Well Julie and Mike have Sophie and will be coming home on Wednesday, we cannot wait to meet her. Isn't she just adorable, and she has her ears pierced too!!!!!!! She looks so happy and I am sure she will love meeting her little brother Samuel and big brothers Jordan and Jacob.

New Pictures

2008-04-25T20:00:00.011-05:00

Well we have been having problems with our internet downloading pictures lately but think we got it fixed tonight, thank goodness. These are just a few pictures from the last month, we have a couple of our Easter Egg Hunt we had will our small group that meets once a month, it was alot of fun. The weather has finally gotten warmer and Lily loves being outside, she also loves daddy's new toy, the riding lawnmower, there is one picture of her and Nick together, she screams when it's time to get off. LOL We also have been taking Lily to the ymca and she loves just being able to run, her brothers were in a dodge ball league and she loved running around with a ball in her hand, she thought she was pretty big. I have also been thinking about Mommy and Teddy Bear Tumble class, as you can see she loves standing on her head, scares me to death!!! Her big brother Blake is in an apprenticeship program for the carpenters union, his first week of schooling one of the things they did was make this awesome rocking horse, Lily loves it. The thing is heavy and will last for many many years, thanks big brother!!!! And last is one from Sunday morning before church she loves for Nick to let her up at the computer desk to listen to music, she starts shaking her bootie and throws her head around, it is a hoot and of course Blake and Nick get quit a kick out of it too. What a blessing she has been to our family we can't imagine life without her:)

They have dates!!!!

2008-04-25T08:21:00.002-05:00

My sister and her husband will be leaving on May 3rd to get Sophie, their consulate date is May 5th and they will be coming home on May 7th, just in time for Mother's Day!!! What an amazing blessing to have 2 new additions for a Mother's Day gift, praise God.

Sophie

2008-04-15T11:20:00.002-05:00

Here is the latest photo of Miss Sophie who should be coming home very soon. She has cleared the courts and they are just waiting on the papers to get done, hoping to hear something very soon about a consulate appointment. I know it's been a long wait but as Mike and Julie already know these blessing are so worth the wait, just look at Samuel's cute little smiling face.

Florida trip

2008-04-02T11:27:00.009-05:00

Here are a few pictures from our recent trip to Florida. We had a great time, the time went too fast but it was great to get away and get a taste of some warm weather. Amy now, I have to say we had a rough start to our trip, Lily had a double ear infection, sinus infection, sore throat in addition to getting 5 new teeth 3 days before we left. We felt after 3 days on antibiotic she would be better, but Friday we were calling the doctor from Georgia needing something else her fevers were non stop and just in obvious pain. Lily started feeling better by Wednesday, we went to the beach Thursday which she loved even though the water was very cold she didn't seem to mind and walked right in. The place we stayed at had a lazy river there and 2 days in a row she fell asleep, guess that is why they call it "lazy"!! LOL She loved being outside and just running, we also went to Fun Spot, they have go-carts and they has become a tradition when we go to F lorida. I have always loved go-carts and usually foot to the floor the whole time, but this new one, had me terrified, I once couldn't see at the top followed by a huge drop off and more screaming, but it was FUN!!! Lily got to ride on some smaller rides, we weren't sure how she would be but in the first pictures you see a tear in her eye, that is not from fear, that was because we tried to take her off the ride. The young boy was very nice and let her ride for about 15 minutes and of course when he went to unbuckle her she threw herself back and started to cry!!! Overall the trip was great, just wish Lily had not been so sick the first few days, poor baby. She is feeling great and more onry then ever.

World of Adoption

2008-03-18T12:55:00.004-05:00

This is something I have been thinking about alot lately. These last three years from the paper chase to now have been amazing. Never did I imagine a group of people, total strangers even would pull me through my down days, be there through the joy and even now months later still be there as a friend. To be honest up until the adoption I never used a computer other then work, so during the paperchase I was on my own but once I found the yahoo world, things definatley changed. From the bond that is created within the travel group, your agency group to that DTC group and of course Rumor Queen, all I can say is how very, very thankful I am for each and everyone of you!!!!! I have to say I LOVE Blogger Land, to follow along as these precious children blossom is so rewarding, I have received so much more then I ever imagined and for that I am forever thankful.

Big Brother

2008-03-12T13:50:00.002-05:00

Well big brother Blake is pretty much wrapped around Lily's little finger. Walked through the mall after eating Chinese and Lily decided she did not want to be in the cart, so Blake climbed in so Lily could push him around. LOL He also recently got a tatoo!!!! Something he has wanted to do for a while and being almost 20 you don't need your parents permission. So as you probably guessed he got Lily's name in chinese, think he is in love with his little sister?? He has already told me a few times if he has biological children fine, but he really wants to adopt from China someday, my hope is the program is around for a long time.......

Mommy's Big Girl

2008-03-10T21:27:00.008-05:00

Here is just a few pictures, Lily's new favorite thing is to help mommy in the kitchen, she has her chair pulled up and likes to help cook and finish with the dishes. We have tried to help load but usually end up standing on the lid and pulling out knives so we stick to the sink for her. She loves her babydolls and little kitty, which will always be stuffed, she just sways back and forth with them giving them hugs. The pigtails are daddy's first attempt to 2 pigtails, he did great!!! He has mastered the one on top and is now getting ready for the summer, he says the key is to contain her in the highchair, I on the other hand chase her around the house trying to get a bow in!! LOL We also have a new look, the corporate eyebrow or attitude, whichever works???

Sophie is Coming!!!

2008-03-04T11:51:00.002-06:00

We are so happy that Sophie as cleared pgn court and is now just waiting for pink slip and birth certificate and then she will be heading home!!!!! Looks like they will be leaving around the first of April to get her. YIPPY!!!!!!

New pictures

2008-02-29T20:21:00.006-06:00

Met up with a friend from church Craig Adams who has beautiful twin girls from China named Zoie and Olivia . We had such a fun time getting the girls together, and boy do they keep Craig busy. LOL Craig will be heading back to Beijing next week so we felt very fortunate to have met the girls, they are such sweeties:)

Also have some new pictures of Lily and her cousin Samuel who joined mommy and daddy from Guatemala the first of February. As you can see Lily tries to be in charge and they had a blast playing their first game on the WII.

So stinkin Cute!!!

2008-02-18T11:52:00.003-06:00

Ok just one picture, I am sitting at work and call Jeff who is at home with Lily til lunchtime and he says, " here talk to Lily", so I start talking not knowing what she is doing, he says she is giving the cheesy smile then sends it to my phone. Of course as soon as I open it, it brings a huge smile to my face and reminds me once again how truly lucky we are to have this sweet little person in our life, she so stinkin cute and so funny, I am so in love!!!!!!!!!!!! This little angel also graces the screen saver to my computer at work, I am sure at times my co-workers are wondering what in the world am I smiling at, well how can you not smile when you see this sweet little face?????

Been Tagged???

2008-02-12T13:16:00.000-06:00

Ok, so my friend Gina http://mgdtochina.blogspot.com/ tagged me and I am too list 7 things you may not know about me. The rules are to link the person who sent this to you and leave a comment on their blog so their readers can visit yours. Post the rules on your blog.

Share 7 strange/weird facts about yourself. Tag 7 random people at the end of your post, linking their blog. Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. I had never flown before going to China
2. My sister is in Guatemala right now adopting a little boy and will go back in 2 months for a girl who is also his cousin:)
3. Love kids, did daycare for 10 years and have worked with youth programs at my church for the last 15yrs.
4. Love the water, could just be in the water all the time, love to watch any movie or program involving sharks!!!! (crazy I know)
5. Ok, since you said strange, I can roll my tongue completely over and can turn both eyelids up, always freaked people out, oh I had sleep with my eyes partially open.
6. Speaking of sleeping, I use to sleep walk alot as a child, last time I recall doing lately though was about 5 yrs ago. Woke up and I was walking around the bedroom trying to feel for a door, then woke up once I ran into the corner
7. Ok, I am kind of strange or boring depends on how you look at it. LOL

Now I am tagging the following blogs:

http://www.kolejourney.blogspot.com/
http://crazy-eight.blogspot.com/
http://thewrights4.blogspot.com/
http://www.6daysweek.blogspot.com/
http://andavamakessix.blogspot.com/
http://odonnellchinagirl2006.blogspot.com/
http://waitingforbabyz.blogspot.com/

Hope I did this right??? LOL

Chinese New Year

2008-02-10T19:50:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday we got together with a few other couples that have adopted to celebrate the Chinese New Year. There were quite a few kids and everyone had a good time. Soon the Krutsingers will be adding a new member to the group. They will be traveling to China soon.

Fun in the snow

2008-02-10T19:39:00.000-06:00

We got our first decent snow a couple weeks ago. I finally have time to post some pictures. Mike and Julie are in Guatamala right now. They have Sofie and Samuel for a week, Samuel gets to come home with them and they will soon go back and get Sofie. A link to their blog is in the upper right hand corner of our blog.

Six months!!!

2008-01-29T19:49:00.001-06:00

What an amazing six months, I remember standing outside that conference room on the third floor, my knees were shaking so bad, I don't recall ever be that nervous before. This picture is of Lily and her foster mom just minutes after she entered the room. I remember leaning to Jeff and saying, "she is so beautiful", not knowing yet that she was my daughter!!!! Lily has been such a blessing to our life, you many people say, "how lucky she is", truly we are the lucky ones. Although we had a very rough first few hours, she is now a very happy and outgoing little girl. She is full of energy and makes us laugh alot, we love you Lily so very much and are so happy that we are your forever family.

Dare Devil

2008-01-27T18:58:00.000-06:00

Well Lily has now become a dare devil, almost falling as I type. She loves to be on the couch, runs back and forth and has almost gotten the "getting off" figure out. We still have to gate most of the house, she is great at climbing stairs but not so good on coming down and with 15 wooden steps I am in no hurry with her doing that by herself. Her big brother go her a recliner for Christmas and she thinks she is pretty big stuff, she now thinks it's pretty funny to stand up, now climbs on the armrest and just smiles and claps for herself!!!! She is so funny and so full of energy, can't believe we have had her six months!!!! She has a fear of nothing, with her brothers always throwing her in the air, no wonder she thinks she can stand on furniture???

Samuel is Coming!!

2008-01-25T11:27:00.000-06:00

We just heard that Samuel has his Consulate Appointment on February 12th, which is also his birthday!!! YIPPY!!!!! We cannot wait to get this little cutie pie home, and praying Sohpie comes soon after so Miss Lily can get to know her new cousins.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-27T12:56:00.000-06:00

Well, Christmas is over. We had a great first Christmas with Lily. She has plenty of new toys to play with I think we may have to add on to the house to make room for everything.

Pictures Finally!!!!

2007-12-17T18:22:00.000-06:00

We finally took Lily to get her picture taken, she never sits still for us so I was a little worried, but Sears did a great job getting her to smile. Of course now we had to order ALL of them. lol Enjoy!

Santa please bring a Play Kitchen

2007-12-14T20:05:00.000-06:00

Here are just a few pictures from the last couple of weeks. Jeff got me some p.j.'s for my birthday so Lily and I could match, I love them!!!
Thank goodness Santa is bringing Lily her own play kitchen, hopefully she will like it as much as she likes getting into the cabinets. LOL
This is Fun!!!!

The Maninfior elves

2007-12-14T20:00:00.000-06:00

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1411346677

Copy and paste the link to see the Maninfior elves

Shopping in St. Louis

2007-12-02T19:52:00.000-06:00

We spent Saturday shopping in St. Louis with one of our travel group members, Mike and Gina. It was nice to see them again and see how their daughter Olivia has changed. I'm not sure if Lily and Olivia remember each other or not but they seemed to like playing together. Lily had her first visit with Santa, as you can see in the picture she didn't think too much of him.

Time to decorate

2007-11-24T21:28:00.000-06:00

We had fun decorating for Lily's first Christmas with us. It was a little tough keeping her out of the tree, but it was still fun. If we can keep her from eating the ornaments it will be a miracle.

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-23T08:26:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to post a few pictures from Thanksgiving and a few from the day before.

Pictures from Lily's 1st Birthday Party

2007-11-11T20:05:00.000-06:00

Happy 1st Birthday Lily

2007-11-09T11:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Lily!!!! This morning Lily's picture appeared on a local news program in a segment called Wonderful 1's, so cute. We started the morning out with breakfast and mom singing Happy Birthday about 10 times to her, she just starred and by the 5th time she was shaking her head NO to me, not sure what that was about. LOL We took cupcakes to Aunt Shelly's house, she watches Lily during the day, to share with the other kids. We are planning on eating Chinese tonight and taking Miss Lily to Toys R Us for some birthday gifts. We are having the family party tomorrow with around 40 some people there!! What a wonderful celebration it will be even if it get's a little crazy.
My heart aches for her birthmother today and the loss she must be feeling, my prayer for her would be that some small voice is telling her that it's ok, her daughter is being well taken care of and is LOVED soooo much.
Will be posting pictures of her big day.

Amy

Rosebud Dedication at Church

2007-11-07T13:12:00.000-06:00

Sunday October 28th was a very special day, we had Lily dedicated at church. This is where we as the family vow to raise her with Christian values and also includes the congregation who also makes this promise to help guide her to Love the Lord as she grows. Both boys who have been such a huge part of her life also went forward with this vow and I cannot tell you how much it meant. With that being said Lily now how a new "cheesy" smile and decided to show the congregation. This is one part of her amazing personality that we love so much, she has been such a blessing to our lives.

China video/slideshow

2007-10-27T12:37:00.001-05:00

china video

Homecoming Weekend

2007-10-14T19:42:00.000-05:00

This was our homecoming weekend, the boys went to the dance on Saturday. Me, Amy and Lily went to the pumpkin patch with our adoption group on Sunday. Posted are a few pictures from this weekend.

10-07-07 Pictures

2007-10-07T18:58:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to post a few new pictures. Lily is doing great, she acts like she wants to walk, but won't take that first step.

09-25-07

2007-09-25T21:05:00.000-05:00

Pumpkin patch
Praise in the park
Self portrait
Praise in the park
LifeLink picnic
LifeLink picnic
Just wanted to post a few pictures. Lily is doing great. This was her first week in daycare, Amy's sister Shelly is watching Lily. Right now she is at Shelly's around 5 hours a day. The first day she cried for about a half hour. The second day about the same. Hopefully she will get used to her new routine. Shelly has four other kids that she watches so Lily has plenty of kids to play with. Sunday was our church's praise in the park, the weather was nice compared to last year which was cold and rainy.

Article in local paper

2007-09-15T08:29:00.000-05:00

Nick at his soccer game
Nick, Lily, Jessie and Myah
Nick, Lily and Myah
Noah and Lily
Our adoption group was interviewed last week at our monthly meeting and the article is in the local paper. I thought the article was very well done. Here is the link to the article.
http://www.jg-tc.com/articles/2007/09/15/features/doc46eb2f7b26fe5571253233.txt

Happy Labor Day Eve

2007-09-02T20:59:00.000-05:00

Lily wrestling with Carson Strong , our neighbors son
Lily being a ham for the camera
Lily playing with her favorite toy

Just wanted to post a few pictures before we go to bed. Last night was the longest that Lily has slept in her crib. She slept in it for around 6 hours. Hopefully she will get comfortable enough to start sleeping the whole night in her crib. Lily really likes to be outside and enjoys going for stroller rides. We took her to the high school football game Friday and she was great, I think that the louder it is the more she likes it. Today we went to church and they had a bagpipe player that was very loud and it didn't bother her at all. We are very lucky to have her in our life.

Lily's adjusting to our time

2007-08-19T18:14:00.000-05:00

Lily

Lily and her friend Myah

Shelly, Noah, Machelle and Lily

Whitney, Lily and Corrine

Lily is adjusting to our time zone and is sleeping very well. She will get up once or twice during the night, but that is better than staying up all night wanting to play. It is good to be home, we have had a lot of visitors and it is good to see everyone. I will be going back to work on the 20th and Amy will be off work until the middle of Sept. Shelly, Amy's sister will be watching Lily after Amy goes back to work. I hope that goes well I'm sure it will.

We need sleep

2007-08-13T20:53:00.000-05:00

Lily is doing great during the day, she is pretty much staying up all day and is happy. We wish she would sleep a little more during the night. She must not be used to the time change yet. She will sleep in her crib for about an hour the she is ready to play. We have been trying to keep her up during the day so she will sleep all night, but it is not working yet. She is not fussy she just wants to play all night.

We are finally home

2007-08-11T12:12:00.000-05:00

We finally made it home. The flight was around 15 hours, which seemed like twice that. Lily was very good on the flight and it is great to be home. Lily is still on China time when it comes to sleep. We tried to keep her up last night but she fell asleep around 9:00 pm and woke up around 1 am and she was up until around 5:00 am. Her and Amy slept in until 11:30. Hopefully we can get her adjusted soon. Other than the sleep schedule she is doing great, it seems like she is happy all the time. The only time she is fussy is when she needs changed or when she is hungry. We are so lucky and happy to have her home. It was great to see everyone at the airport and it was great to see Blake meet his baby sister for the first time.

Finally able to post again

2007-08-06T01:21:00.000-05:00

I finally found a place that I will be able to post. If this does not work I will continue to send pictures by e-mail. Everything is going fine Lily is adjusted very well and she is sleeping much better. Today we went to a pearl market and bought a few pearls. Nothing too exciting. I can not add pictures so this is pretty much worthless. I know that everyone wants to see pictures so I won't post again until I can get pictures to load. If you want to get pictures get with my mom, Mike Gerkin, Bob and Janice or my Dad. I will continue to e-mail pictures using Vito's computer. See you soon.

Jeff

2007-08-02T22:53:00.000-05:00

Last day in Fuzhou, we wil be heading to the police station for her passport later this afternoon and will be flying out around 7:20 for Guanzhou. All three girls got together in Gina's room last night for a playdate and did pretty well, mostly just starring and trying to grab at faces. Being here in Fuzhou has been amazing just to see their culture. In the evening they gather down the road from the hotel in an open area and dance, last night we had the joy of watching little ones learning to skate and ride bikes. We also had three little girls running around us and giggling, they later came up and asked how we were doing? They spoke very good english, although we are ready to move onto the next step to heading home, I will miss Fuzhou and the people. Think we have some photos of the girls from last night, enjoy.

Amy

Last day in Fujian Province

2007-08-02T02:52:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day in Fuzou. We went to a museum today while we are waiting for Lily's passport. The weather here is very hot around 95 and very humid. Lily is warming up to all of us more and more each day. She is sleeping very well and eating alot. Last night we went down to a park that is close to the hotel. There were thousands of people out dancing in the park. It was very neat to see how when the sun goes down the people come out. During the day when it is hot there are very few people in the same park. We went shopping today at what I would call a flea market. They had about anything that you would want, alot of junk and alot of very nice handmade crafts, china, tea sets we bought a tea serving tray for 80.00 HBG which is around 13.00 us money. Nick bought a hand carved pipe for some reason. It was funny watching him bargain with the salesman, since they don't speak english they were typing what price they would sell for on a cell phone and Nick would type what he was willing to give. Eventually they agreed on a price.

It is almost impossible to make a phone call so Mom and Dad I have tried to call each of you, but I can't get a line out. The only person we have had any luck calling is Blake and I don't know if that is because we had him added to our international call package on our cell phone. I have been told that when we go to Guanchouz we will not have as much of a problem calling home. Anyway I will try to keep posting here to let you know that we are doing fine. We fly to Guanchouz tomorrow at 7:40 pm.

Fun day

2007-08-01T02:27:00.000-05:00

Today we had the day free and our guides took us to a market that had mainly jewelry and stone carvings and artwork for sell by local artists. After that we went to a tea house which was very interesting. It had two girls that prepared different types of tea for us to sample. They prepared it the traditional way using clay pots, they showed us how to drink the tea which required alot of slurping. It would be like a wine tasting in the states. After that we went to KFC, chicken in China is the same as in the states. We really haven't had alot of traditional Chinese food to speak of. Our guides have only been to this province once and are not sure where it is safe to get good food. Lily is adjusting great. She is always smiling and very happy she is attaching to all of us very well even though Nick is still her favorite, she is warming up to Amy and I. The picture of Nick with the girls is from the tea house. The Chinese culture is amazing. Every morning around 6 am there are hundreds of people in the local park and on the streets doing tai chi and exercising. After around 10 am there are very few people out in the park because it is so hot. Most of the people that are out in the afternoon are playing cards in the shade. It is a real adventure to just cross the street. There must not be any traffic rules because you will see cars that look like they are driving the on the wrond side of the street and there are scooters and bikes everywhere. They will ride the scooters on the sidewalks so you have to watch your back or they will hit you.

Trouble posting

2007-07-31T04:45:00.000-05:00

Everything is going fine except for the fact we can't access our blog from our hotel. Right now I am posting from a coffee shop, but the computer is in chinese. Hopefully I will be able to type and post pictures even though everything is in chinese. Lily is doing good and adjusting very well. The first day she was missing her foster mother and cried her self to sleep. She is becoming very attached to Nick. Amy is not liking this but she realizes that she needs to look to someone when she needs comfort and Nick is doing an awesome job of doing that. Anyway we are in Funzou for the next four days before going to guanchow. I will try to post from this coffee shop again Wednesday if this works.

We made it to Hong Kong

2007-07-28T08:31:00.000-05:00

It was a very long trip, but we did make it fine. Amy handled the plane trip with no problem. I am not going to post alot since we have to get up early in the morning. Hopefully I will have more time to post pictures tomorrow.

The first picture was on the plane to Hong Kong. The speed and outside temp. kind of freaked Amy out, but she did fine. Will post again tomorrow.

Itinerary!!!!

2007-07-13T15:24:00.000-05:00

Received an email this morning from our sw with our itinerary. We will arrive in Hong Kong on July 28th at 6:50 pm stay at the Regal hotel, get up the following morning and fly out to Fuzhou, land there around noon, and Lily will be brought to the hotel there at 3:30 pm!!!!!!!! Just about 2 more weeks and we will get to meet our daughter for the first time, what an amazing feeling. We can't wait to see our sweet Lily, we are coming sweetie!!!

The Shower

2007-07-12T15:13:00.000-05:00

On July 1st my family had a shower to celebrate the upcoming arrival of Lily, and I cannot tell you how much it meant. It was a ladybug theme and they did such a great job!! Before people started coming we put on a cd my sister in law had bought of Chinese songs, it kind of hit me all at once, this was really happening!!!! After waiting 2 1/2 years it was kind of an emotional rush I wasn't expecting and I felt so truly blessed.

On the day her pictures arrived my desk top calender said these words which I found so appropriate, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fufilled is a tree of life." Proverbs 13:12

Couple pictures from the shower, all I could say was, WOW!!!!

Thank you so much everyone!!!!!!