Blessed O'Brien Family

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T09:06:00.000-08:00

Last night we were getting ready for bed. Both kids were so excited. We read "The Night Before Christmas" and then the store of Jesus' Birth from Luke. We prayed for our family which we miss so much and wish we were with this year. Nana, Papa and Uncle John we really miss you and wish we could have made it home. I hope you know how much we love you and hope you have a Merry Christmas.

Both the kids said good bye to Buddy and his new friend (Shayla got him as a gift at her dance class.) They were both very sorry that Buddy was leaving but hoped he has a good time at his home until next year.

The stockings were hung and we were ready for bed!

This morning was met with wonder and excitement. Such a blessed time for me to see their excitement and joy.

I was very surprised at how excited Rudy was. He was jumping and playing with his new toy. The kids got a kick at how happy he was. Below even our cat C.J. was excited about his new toy. C.J. wasn't sure what to do with a toy but he's been playing with it most of the morning.

Both kids approved of their presents and were very happy. They have not stopped playing all morning. I think they be busy for awhile. We all feel very blessed but really miss our family this year.

I think this was Shayla's favorite present. She played with it first. Thank you Lisa for letting me know about this. She loves it. And also thank you for my presents. The kids were so excited for me to open them.

Merry Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T07:38:00.000-08:00

Actually these are from Christmas Eve Eve! I hope we've started a Christmas tradition to visit the Billy Graham Library before Christmas each year. The kids had a great time and really enjoyed the Library. We arrived just before it got really crowded and none of the Christmas activities had started. When we finished the live Nativity was going and the kids were so excited.

After we had dinner and Christmas with our close friends. The kids had a great time and are so excited for today and tomorrow.

Merry Christmas to all my family and friends!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

Happy Birthday Shayla

2011-12-01T20:03:00.000-08:00

Shayla turned 8 years old today. It was a wild and crazy day and we didn't have much time to celebrate. Hopefully we will have a party in a couple of weeks. I am so blessed and thankful to be her mom. I hope she has a great year being eight! More details of her special day at another time. This momma is tired!!!

2010 Pictures

2011-11-04T22:17:00.000-07:00

I never seem to have time to post pictures these days. Today I had the day off and one of our activities was cancelled so I thought it would be a good idea to post some of our 2010 pictures that never made the blog.

The first collage is from our trip to Myrtle Beach for Shayla's cheerleading competition. Her team had a great season and they again went out and hit two great routines. The next best part of the weekend was the beach. It was a little cold but they didn't mind. You can tell from the smiles on their faces that it didn't matter what the temperature was.

Easter 2010

Every year we have an indoor "Golden Egg Hunt." I (Easter Bunny Helper) hide clues all over the house and they have a great time finding eggs and finish up with the Golden Egg. This year we did everything around the Easter Story and it turned out great. This is the second year we got to have an Easter Egg hunt outside with Nathan's best friend. It was a great day and I am very Thankful to God for blessing us and for allowing us to share in His Son's Sacrifice and Resurrection Day.

This summer was very low key. We spent time at the "Y" swimming and hanging out at home. Shayla fractured her ankle in June and we had to keep her off of it for six weeks. She is all better now but it was a long six weeks trying to keep her from jumping and tumbling around. Nathan's Cub Scout Pack had an awesome family camping trip and later in the summer a rocket launch. We really enjoy our great Pack and Scouting family. On the 4th we had dinner with friends and Nathan went downtown with them to watch the fireworks. Shayla and I spent the evening at home. Shayla is still not very fond of the loud booms and at the time could not walk on her ankle. We had some "Pet Friendly" fireworks we shot off and then turned in early.

This is a collection of pictures from Shayla's cheerleading career. She started cheering when she was four years old. She is now in her fourth year and really enjoys spending time with friends and tumbling all over the place.

Happy Halloween! 2011

2011-10-31T18:06:00.000-07:00

We had a great evening for Trick or Treating. This year Nathan decided to be Ash Ketchum from Pokemon and Shayla wanted to be a Pirate. They both were very cute. Nathan went with friends to go around the neighborhood. He came back with more candy this year than ever. Shayla hung back with me. She made it to more house's than ever. You can see from the picture of her running down the drive way that she had a great time. Both said it was the best year ever. Hope everyone had a great Halloween!!!

First Day of School

2011-08-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

Ready for the first day of school.

I've really have to get the Blog updated and try to get back into some pattern of posting pictures and events. It seems I always go to face book and check other blogs and forget about my own.

Our first day of school started well. The kids got up and were great in the morning. We got out the door at the planned time. Then everything fell apart. Shayla's bus was late and with the way their start times are this year I have no time to wait or Nathan will be late to school. So I decided to take him and then drive her. Both of them ended up being a little late but for the first day it seemed. fine. We'll try something different tomorrow.

Prayers Answered!!!!

2011-05-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

God has answered the prayers of this sweet family. They now have permission to go and get - Gregory Kirill!!!

You can follow their story - http://oureyesopened.blogspot.com/

Sorry for being gone for so long. I lost my cable to load pictures to my computer. We've been crazy busy with all the end of the year activities. We're doing great!!! Survived our first year of EOG's. Nathan was worried about EOG's but after the week was over decided extra recess and no homework was a great trade for having to take test all day. Shayla moved up a level this coming season in cheerleading and will be on a Youth Level 3 team. She is very excited. I'm ready for summer to be here.

HELP BRING KIRILL HOME!!!

2011-03-25T06:35:00.000-07:00

Grab This Button

Please follow this link and pray for this family. Their adoption of Kirill was rejected due to Kirill having Downs Syndrome. This was the only reason given. The judge feels it would be better for Kirill to live in an institution than with a family. Please read their story and share it with anyone who will pray and or can help them bring Kirill home.

You can follow their story - http://oureyesopened.blogspot.com/

Happy New Year! It is the year of the Rabbit!

2011-02-04T06:34:00.000-08:00

Xīn Nián Kuài Lè

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

Happy Chinese New Year! From our Family to Yours!

Basketball and Snow Day!!!

2011-01-10T13:55:00.000-08:00

Nathan had his first basketball game on Saturday and had a great time. He was not sure which way to go part of the time but figured it out before long and did really well for his first game. His team is the Lakers and they won.
Sunday night into Monday we had our first snow of 2011. Snow is not very common in the south so it was a big deal. The kids had a great time making snow angels, sledding and having snowball fights.
It looks like they are going to miss two days of school since it has snowed most of the day today.

A little Christmas and New Years!

2010-12-31T19:49:00.000-08:00

Nathan was very excited about coming down stairs and seeing what Santa brought him!

I love his express seeing that Santa decided to give him one more chance with a DSi.

He had fun putting all the bows on his shirt and declared himself "BOW GUY"

Shayla was a little calmer coming down stairs but still very excited.

Shayla loved her pillow pet "Uni" and her cape from Nana. Uni also has on a cape.

Nathan has been into Ghost Busters and these are a few of his favorite presents. He wanted to be sure this picture made the blog.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011!!!

The kids have been having a sword gun battle for a while. Longer than normal since usually someone gets hurt and the game has to be called.

I know we are WAY behind posting. Tonight we still have an Uno game to play and celebrating to finish. Both the kids plan on making it to midnight. I wanted to Wish my family and friends a Happy New Year!

HAPPY Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

This was the best Halloween EVER!!!! Was the response from both my kids tonight. I was very glad to hear that. Since we moved to our new house the kids compare everything to the old house. I was really worried that Halloween might be a let down but I was wrong.

We've had at least two parties for both kids before we reached the holiday this year. It's been a fun season and tonight was the best part.

This year we had a Ghost Buster and Pink Super Women

We sprayed her hair pink! (Her favorite color!!!)

He wanted to be a Ghost Buster to get rid of all the scary ghosts and goblins.

Having fun before trick or treat time!

The haul!! They had fun trading and getting just what they wanted.

I hope everyone had a safe, happy Halloween. Enjoy the pictures.

Aw Shucks Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-10T22:57:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday night at a local pumpkin patch. It was such a beautiful night and the kids had a great time. Nathan picked his pumpkin, had fun feeding the goats, was so excited that his best buddy came at the same time but his favorite was the tree house and the corn maze. This year the corn maze was in a shape to honor Scouting. He ended up getting to do the maze twice once while it was still light and then when it was dark.

Shayla also picked a cute pumpkin, enjoyed her hayride, the corn maze and feeding the animals. I think she said that was her favorite part. She and I had fun getting through the maze together.

These are some of the animals. Nathan loves turkeys and will not eat turkey because of it. So he was very excited to see a number of them. He calls them "Agent T" from his favorite show on TV. He loved feeding the goats.

After a couple of tries I finally caught Shayla working on her toe touch in the hay. The kids loved jumping and climbing on the bails.

It was a great time! I love FALL!!!

Summer Recap - Shayla

2010-09-16T20:47:00.000-07:00

Over the summer I didn't take much time to post pictures. We had a quite laid back summer with a few fun camps here and there. The kids had fun with their friends and we stayed up late and enjoyed time as a family. I thought it would be nice for my family to see a couple of things that we didn't get to from the summer time.

Shayla loved LOVED drama camp. The theme for their camp was the "Wizard of Oz." I was so impressed with how much they learned in a half day one week camp. Her part in the play was one of the munchkins. She learned her line the first day and loved singing the songs.

Another high light for Shayla's summer was losing her first tooth. She use to cry and cry when Nathan would lose a tooth. In her mind her teeth could not fall out fast enough. Finally she feels like a big kid.

Labor Day Weekend 2010

2010-09-06T20:10:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend pack with all kinds of activities. On Friday we started off the weekend with Nathan's first flag football game. I was very impressed with how he played. More than anything I enjoyed seeing him have success at something he doesn't think he's very good at. Each time he had a great play his coaches were right there to give him a high five and the look on his face was priceless. He had two games this weekend and they didn't win either one but you would not have known from the reaction of the coaches or the kids on the team. That's what I want most of all winning would just be icing on the cake.

Saturday Shayla's Daisy troop was invited to ride on a float for the Labor Day parade. Only three of the girls could make it but it didn't really matter the one's that came had a great time. Thankfully it was beautiful here on Saturday.

Nathan took pictures during the parade and did a great job. He took over 800 pictures. From what I could tell he really enjoyed the cars and getting a picture of what was on the side of each one. Flags were a big hit. He enjoyed telling me about all the different things he saw and I think he found something else he really enjoys.

We ended the weekend with some time with friends at our local town festival and swimming at a local park.

We only have two days of school this week so we have another fun weekend ahead. Can't wait!!!

Shayla's First Day

2010-08-25T20:26:00.001-07:00

Today was the first day of School for Nathan and Shayla. They were both very excited and ready for school to start back. I still have pictures to post from the end of July and all of August. I get back to those in the next couple of weeks. Our day started out early. Shayla is going to ride the bus this year and thankfully the stop picks up at 7:15 instead of 6:05. She was worried about waking up early but we got in bed at a great time and the morning went very smoothly. She is such a riot most of the time today was no exception. I hoped to get to her bus stop early and I should have known that the bus would be late. So we had a great time just talking and taking pictures. She was excited about the bus and went right on when it came. It only ended up being 15 minutes late which is not bad for the first day of school.

I didn't get much detail about her first day. She said she had a great time. Each first grader got a treat cone from the German students. That was her favorite part. She really didn't have any complaints so I guess it was a great day.

Nathan's First Day of School

2010-08-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

It is hard to imagine that Nathan is entering third grade. He is getting so big. He gets to sleep in a little longer than Shayla since his school is closer to the house and starts later. We had a great open house. This year it seems that everyone is ready for him. He was so excited to see his 1st grade teacher and resource teacher. His teacher for this year is very nice and gave him a big hug. Nathan is a hugger and loves it when he gets to see all the teachers. His eyes just light up. It makes me tear up every time. I hope that innocence and joy are around a couple more years.

From what I could tell his teacher went over all her expectations today. He even mentioned to me that I wasn't to load his back pack that his teacher said they were big kids now and that was their job. His goals for the year are to be more organized and work more independently. He had a great time at recess where he got to see some of his closest friends. Lunch must have not been very good because he didn't eat any of it and after school some how managed to lose his lunch box. After care must have been fun. He was excited to go back so it must have been a good day.

After the Wedding

2010-07-12T19:02:00.001-07:00

After the all the beauty of the bride, flowers, church and guests it was hard to imagine an even more glorious site but the reception did not dissapoint. Held at a historical plantation right next to the water it was a perfect continuation of a wonderful wedding.

Wedding Part 3

2010-07-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

We didn't have to get ready for the wedding untill later in the day. First we slept in until 9:30. Shayla is a great sleeper and would have slept longer but we had to get down to breakfast before they stopped serving. After breakfast Shay took a quick swim. Then we painted finger nails, curled hair and did a little make-up. All things she loves to do.
We got to the church just as the girls for the wedding were arriving. Shay got to see everyone and enjoy seeing the bride before she got married.
Both the Flower girls were very cute. They both did a great job.

It was a beautiful wedding.

Wedding Part 2

2010-07-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

The rehearsal went quickly and everyone headed out for a dinner cruise to celebrate for the rehearsal dinner. The bride is in white on these pictures and one of her sisters is in pink. Shayla adores both of them and loved getting her picture taken. The rehearsal dinner was amazing with the historic area of Charleston as a back drop. We both had a great time eating, visiting and enjoying the boat.

Beautiful Wedding Part 1

2010-07-11T12:29:00.000-07:00

Shayla was blessed to be the flower girl this past weekend in Charleston, SC. The setting, people and especially the bride and groom were amazing. The weekend for Shayla started with the rehearsal. Shayla loves to dress up and play princess so this was a dream weekend for her. She was smiling from ear to ear most of the weekend.

These are pictures from the rehearsal.

July 4th and More!

2010-07-07T19:52:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed a wonderful 4th of July. The weather was awesome - wish it could have lasted longer. It is really HOT now. Rudy got a long over due bath. Both kids helped wash him and then played with their squirt guns while we walked him around to help him dry. It took forever for him to dry enough to go back inside.

Toward evening we shot off pet friendly fire works. That's what the kids called them because once it got dark we were surrounded by large beautiful but LOUD fireworks. We didn't have to leave the house to get a great show. The kids both enjoyed watching the display and we finished off the evening with our favorite show - Wip* out!

It was a great day. I am so thankful for my family and our country. To all the people that have fought for the freedoms we enjoy THANK YOU!

The next day both kids woke up not feeling very well. None of us have gotten back to the east coast time zone. We all enjoyed a movie in bed. By the end of the movie Shayla was jumping on the bed and Nathan seemed to be feeling better. Shayla later said she wanted to get her ears pierced. So off we went. She was very brave (more tears than I was prepared for) in her words. I was worried for a few minutes that we were going to end up with only one ear pierced but she came around. The second one went much better and she has not stopped telling everyone about her "Sparklie Ears"

More Pictures from June

2010-07-03T14:37:00.000-07:00

June 2010

2010-07-03T13:39:00.000-07:00

June was been a fun month. Both kids finished school and did a great job. They advanced to 3rd and 1st grade. The last two weeks were crazy with all the parties, field days and me running between the two schools.

Also at the beginning of June Shayla finished her soccer season. She enjoyed the social part of being on a team but the soccer part was not that much fun for her. We finished up our first year in Girl Scouts. This is one of her favorite activities since it is mostly socializing and she loves that. Nathan finish up his second year of Scouts and moved from a Wolf to a Bear Scout.

We jumped right into summer with Nathan attending his first Boy Scout Day Camp. It was incredibly HOT that week but he still seemed to have a great time. He enjoyed getting to ride with two of his friends. His group had great leaders. They must have done a good job because they won all kinds of awards. Shayla spent the first week going to camp at the gym and also doing preteam for gymnastics and her cheerleading with her cheer team.

June 18th was Shayla's third family day. We spent the day together and looked at many of the video's and pictures of our time in China. She loved the special attention. I can't believe it's been three years. She is such a blessing and makes me smile daily. Each day is still so exciting for her. She can find joy in just about any situation.

The second week we visited my brother in Texas and parents in Oklahoma. The kids would say other than seeing their uncle and grandparents their favorite parts were the Zoo with Uncle John and the spray parks in Oklahoma. We went to a number of movies and enjoyed spending time with family.

Enjoy the pictures.

Some of Our Many Activities Spring 2010

2010-05-09T20:23:00.001-07:00

We've had a busy spring time. Shayla is doing gymnastics, cheerleading and soccer. Nathan is busy with school and Boy Scouts. Both of the kids are doing a great job at their activities and school. Enjoy the pictures. Happy Mothers Day to Nana we miss you and hope to visit soon.

Two Monkeys Jumping on Two Beds

2010-04-08T22:24:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - With a Few Words!

2010-04-06T23:01:00.001-07:00

Cheerleading year number two is over and it was such a great experience - great coaches, built confidence, was fun and enjoyed great time with friends!

HAPPY EASTER!

2010-04-04T10:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter - He's ALIVE!!! Jesus said "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11:25-26

We've had wonderful weather and great time with friends this Easter. Wish we were closer to family and hope they've had a wonderful holiday. I am thankful for the blessings God has given us. Hope Everyone has had a great Easter!

We're Still Here! Time Just Flys

2010-02-13T16:32:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been almost two months since my last post. January - March are my busy times for work and this year is no exception. This is where my mom and dad get to see pictures of the kids so this post is all about them and what has happened since the first of January.

Nathan turned 8 years old in January. We decided to keep the birthday celebrations at home this year. He enjoyed a homemade cake, a few toys and his favorite a new Xbox game. I think this is the first year he was healthy on his birthday. A few of his favorite things from his seventh year include: Legos, Best Friend M, Boy Scouts, Xbox, Wii, DS (loves all kinds of video games), played flag football, started 2nd grade, still loves Parry and Pooh, amazes his mom at how smart and loving he can be.

It snowed for the first time in a year. Actually it was "Ice Snow" as Shayla decided to call it. The kids had to kick off the top layer to get a snow ball out of it but that didn't keep the fun away. They also missed a day of school which brought more excitement.

Nathan had his second grade performance. I can remember his kindergarten performance like it was yesterday. I can't believe he is 8 years old and half way done with second grade. The kids did a great job. I got there early and was very close to the front. Nathan was so excited to see me and kept looking over and smiling. I hope that innocence and love stays around for a few more years. It made my heart warm.

Shayla's school celebrated Chinese New Year - Year of the Tiger. She attends a language immersion school. It is very impressive to see all the kids have learned and what to expect in the coming grades. She is always chattering in Chinese now. Her school is amazing.

Hope to add more events tomorrow. We are all doing well and wish every one a Happy Valentines Day and Happy Chinese New Year!

POM POM ATTACK

2010-01-01T16:09:00.000-08:00

I was sitting at my computer yesterday when I kept hearing a strange sound. I finally decided to go and investigate. Our cat CJ was attacking Shay's pom poms. He was having a grand time. He usually never gets mentioned but he is a good cat and fun to have around.

Happy 2010!

2009-12-31T19:31:00.000-08:00

We had a fun filled New Years Eve spent with friends. My hopes and wishes for the new year include walking closer with God, being wiser with the things I am blessed with and enjoying my family. I hope everyone has a safe and fun New Year.

Christmas Fun!

2009-12-26T09:20:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas break started off with me getting sick and then both the kids. I was in bed except to feed the kids for three days. I felt bad that everyone ended up sick. We all went to the doctor and the medicine started working. By Christmas Eve we were all starting to feel better. We made Christmas cookies and both kids picked one to leave for Santa. We went to Christmas Eve service and enjoyed all the wonderful Christmas Carols. Nathan got to stay with me in the regular service and he seemed very intreged by the big screens and musicians. He was very good and said he really enjoyed everything. After dinner we read the Christmas Story from Luke and the Night Before Christmas. Both kids wanted to get in bed early so Santa could come. It seems our coughs return the strongest when we get in bed. It was very late when they finally fell asleep. On Christmas morning I had to wake them both up at 9:00 a.m. I didn't think they were ever going to get up. I'm not sure they remembered what day it was at first but once reminded they started moving. After all the presents were unwrapped and Santa gifts were discovered they were both very happy. Shay stopped one time and just said a quick pray thanking God and Santa for all she had received.
We spent Christmas day with friends and had a great time.

Merry Christmas To All

2009-12-24T07:56:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12

When Shay was 5!

2009-11-30T20:20:00.000-08:00

Six years ago tomorrow a beautiful baby girl was born in China. God knew at that time she would love life and bless everyone around her. I am so thankful God let me be her mother. When she was five years old she played Mary in her preschool production, spent Christmas with her Papa and Nana, loved to dress up, saw her first snow, celebrated Chinese New Year, loved to cheer, improved and became a very good gymnasts, graduated from Pre School, played in the sprinkler for the first time, loved to swim, played soccer, started Kindergarten, decide to be a pink cow girl for Halloween and takes her mothers breath away when she watches her live life each day with so much excited and joy.

Fun Saturday!!!

2009-10-10T17:29:00.000-07:00

We started our day at Shay's first cheerleading competition of the season. Her squad did a great job and was so cute. They are all 5 and younger. After awards Shay had a birthday party and Nathan had a flag football game. Thankfully we made it back across town in time for both activities. Shay loved her party. It was a princess theme and there is nothing more exciting than that in her world. Nathan's team did great and he scored his first and second touchdowns ever. He was so excited. We then headed over to visit a friend and do some crafts together. Both kids really enjoyed it and we not have a few fall decorations.
Saturdays are so fun and I feel so blessed to be able to enjoy all these activities as a family.

Boy Scout Family Trip

2009-10-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went on our first camp out of the year. Nathan's favorite activity is Boy Scouts. Last year we had a number of chances to camp out with his troop but we never stayed the night. Nathan and I had an agreement that if I bought a tent for our family he would try and spend the night out side. We got the tent and Nathan made it out side for the first time. He had many firsts over the weekend and I'm very proud of him.
We all had a great time. We were blessed with the perfect day for camping. During the night from 2:00 a.m. on I was freezing but the kids slept just fine. Shay and all the younger sisters slept in until 8:00 a.m. The boys were up and going around 6:00 a.m.
I think I've recovered. This is the first day I don't feel tired and worn out.
Feeling my age and lack of fitness all week.
I'm very thankful for all the leaders of our pack. They did a great job and all the kids enjoyed themselves.

First Cheer Event of the Year - Celebration of Hope

2009-09-27T16:16:00.001-07:00

On Saturday we had our first cheer event of the season. Each year Charlotte Allstar Cheerleading starts with the Celebration of Hope. If you don't know the story of Hope Stout you can find out more at www.marchforthwithhope.org. I am so glad Shay and Charlotte Allstars is part of this event. Shay's team is the Lime Squad. We call them the Lil' Limes. They did an awesome job and their coaches are wonderful. It's fun to see all the teams perform. In two weeks the competition season begins.
Our weather was not great this weekend and both soccer and football were cancelled. Nathan did a great job surviving the cheer event. I only heard "HOW MANY MORE NOW!!!" a couple of times. Poor guy!:( He did something he's never done before which made me even more proud. Instead of playing his DS player he read a book. It was his idea. His reading is really improving and hopefully this new excitement will continue.

Flag Football and Soccer

2009-09-12T13:22:00.000-07:00

Today was the first weekend for Flag Football games and soccer. They both got their jersey's and just happen to both get #7 and red for their team color. Both teams started with prayer (thank you SOAR) Nathan really enjoyed his game. He did a good job and had fun. Shay's team has practice first and then scrimmage games. Little kids soccer games are so funny. They all had a great time. Shay is the only girl on her team but that didn't seem to bother her. Over all very fun I can't wait until it gets a little cooler.

Second Day of Kindergarten No Stagger.

2009-09-01T19:32:00.001-07:00

Today was our first day of Kindergarten with all the kids coming. Shay was ready to go and had a great day. She could tell me some of her number in Chinese and had fun making new friends. Nathan had his first flag football practice. I think they noticed that he had never touched a football before. We went out side today and practiced. He felt like he was already getting better. It was a beautiful day here. We are getting into our new routine. I know it is really good for us but I miss being able to let them stay up and play. It is really hard not getting to spend so much time together.

First Day of Kindergarten

2009-08-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

Shay started Kindergarten today. Her school starts 30 min. before Nathans but is 20 min. from our house. We got up early and had a very calm morning. Hopefully I can continue getting things ready ahead of time. It makes the morning go so much better. The drive over to her school was not as bad as I thought. Since it was the first day I walked her in. She did great and was ready to start her day. Shay is in a Chinese Immersion program and Nathan is attending our very wonderful neighborhood school. I will miss having them around but look forward to a more structured schedule. The picture with both of them is the first day of school from 2007 - 2009. They have both grown so much. I have mixed emotions about that. I wish they could stay little but also enjoy watching them grow and explore all that life has for them. It's amazing but so fast.

First Day of Second Grade

2009-08-25T15:44:00.001-07:00

Today was our first day of school for Nathan. We all got early and had breakfast and were ready to go early. Not the norm for me but nice maybe we can make it a habit. Nathan was excited which for him means wild and not regulated. He kept telling me he was getting all the inappropriate behavior out before he went to school. It seemed to work since in his words he had a good day. Shay starts kindgergarten on a staggered entry this Thursday and next Tuesday will start full time. I'm thankful we can work into our new schedule slowly. We all do better with structure so school is a good thing for our house. I look forward to an exciting year.

First Time on Skates

2009-08-16T20:15:00.001-07:00

We tried roller skating for the first time. Both kids did pretty good. No one was moving very quickly but they both stayed up by themselves on the wood and carpet. Thankfully they let the parents walk with street shoes out on the rink. If not we all would have been in trouble. Nathan really didn't want to go but with a small bribe (game room time before leaving) he adjusted his attitude and tried. He did a great job and made it on the carpet and the wood. Shay loved it and laughed at herself and everyone around her. She didn't move very quickly and if you call scooting skating then she succeeded. In her mind she was skating and very proud of herself.

More Summer Fun

2009-08-10T21:38:00.000-07:00

Only 14 Days until school starts. Summer is quickly coming to an end. We will miss the swimming and warm summer days. My kids love the water!!! Can you tell.

Summer 2009 Updates

2009-08-08T08:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not getting our summer pictures up sooner. As always time just seems to get away. The kids start school in two weeks so summer is almost over. One of the highlights of our summer was spending a weekend in the mountains of NC with my Mom. The cabin was beautiful and had wonderful views. We had fun going to a gem mine, playing mini golf, looking around the area and spending the day at Grandfather Mountain. The flowers were blooming and the high was in the low 70's each day. Everyone had a great time.

Two Years Ago Today I Met My Beautiful Daughter

2009-06-18T16:59:00.001-07:00

Two years ago today my brother and I were in China. God blessed me with the most beautiful girl. At 3 1/2 years of age she came into a strange room with strange people without a tear. She loved showing us her pictures and having her picture taken. Even two years later life is so exciting to her. Each new thing is met with such enthusiasm. Her smile can light up a room and for the most part is easy to find.

In her second year she has finished up preschool and is heading to kindergarten in the fall. She will attend a Chinese magnet program and will soon be learning her native language again. She is very gifted in gymnastics and cheerleading. Dress up, singing and playing make believe are her favorite activities at home.

I can't imagine my life with out her in it. I pray that she will continue to love Jesus as her Lord and Heavenly Father. That life will always be so exciting and her smile will continue to bless everyone around her.

Starting Summer 09'

2009-06-09T06:11:00.000-07:00

We've been busy finishing up the school year and getting ready for summer. Shay has been finished with preschool for a couple of weeks. She is enjoying camp at the gym and starting Junior Preteam plus Lime Squad. Her summer will constist mostly of gymnastics camp and spending time with friends. She spent the night with one of her best buddies last night and kept repeating as she left in the car "ParrrrtY TIME" "Parrrrty TIME"
Today is the second to last day of first grade for Nathan. I am so proud of him. He has done a great job and is excited about officially becoming a second grader. His favorite activity(Boy Scouts)is over for the summer. We will be going to a couple of get togethers to keep in touch with everyone. My job for the summer is not to let him play video games non stop. Other than swimming that would be his idea of a great summer.
Both of the kids are starting to realize that we have a theme park here in town. I guess season tickets would be a good idea before long. Mom is not the best riding buddy any more due to motions sickness. I wish I could still ride like I did in my youth. I was hoping they would not realize this until Shay was tall enough to ride more but might not happen for awhile. We are all looking forward to Nana coming to visit.
I've not taken many pictures lately so I've found a couple that I love to hold over until some new ones can be taken. SUMMER 2009 IS HERE!

Fun Week for Shay

2009-05-17T22:29:00.000-07:00

Last week Shay had a number of fun activities. First we had our spring awards for gymnastics. She has come a long way this year and is doing a great job. This coming spring she will move to the Junior Pre-team. Everyone at ISC is going to miss Andy when he leaves at the end of the month. He is a great teacher/coach/ handyman and wonderful person. We wish him the best in his future marriage and life in Georgia.

Thursday Shay's preschool had their graduation celebration. All the kids looked so nice and they did a great job on their songs. Thank you Mrs. Lisa and Mrs. Susan for all your love and help this year. Shay is ready to move on to Kindergarten. Her preschool did a great job getting them ready to succeed next year.

Last event was the kick-off party at CAC. All the cheerleaders get together for a pot luck dinner, skits and play time. Shay was a monkey last year and this year she was a sheep. The older kids make up cheers and short routines using an animal for their inspiration. Each team has kids of all ages and abilities. It was fun this year watching some of the coaches and remembering when they were out there as cheerleaders coming up in the program. Kind of makes me feel REALLY OLD but also so proud of them and the job they are doing. I can't wait to see all the routines come together this season. This will be our 19th year Go CAC!

Week 18 - I ♥ Faces “LAUGHTER”

2009-05-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

I ♥ Faces theme for Week 18 is Laughter. I love this picture of Shay playing in the sprinkler. This was the first time this year that the weather was warm enough and our area was allowed to have sprinklers on. It might her first time ever to do this and it shows on her face. She had a great time. If you want to put a smile on your face go see all the laughter going on at I ♥ Faces.

It will make your day!!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-10T10:58:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to everyone and especially my mom. Nana as the grandkids call her. Mom we all really miss you this weekend and wish we could be closer. You have been such and incrediable help to Nathan, Shay and me. I've told you that Shay is always telling me that she misses Nana. She just got down off my lap after crying and saying she wanted to see her Nana. They both can't wait to see you again. We love you and miss you.

Enjoy the pictuers. We had a warm fun day outside on Saturday. The weather was really very hot and I even got to much sun on my face and arms. The kids didn't mind and had a great time playing in the water. The other pictures are from last week. Shay and Nathan both had special times at school on Thursday for Mother's Day. Also on Thursday Shay had her first cheerleading practice of the year. Nathan's boy scout troop had their meeting at the gym. It ended up being a special day for all of us.

Best of Last Week

2009-05-03T23:37:00.000-07:00

Last week we had a great time with Princess Day at school for Shay. There could not be a better theme for her. She had a wonderful time and all the Prince and Princess's were so cute and handsome. Nathan lost his top tooth at school. He has really let me off the hook so far on losing teeth. He has worked each one out pretty much by himself and doesn't seemed bothered at all by the process. I was a WIMP! Hopefully this will carry over with Shay. She gets so mad and wants her teeth to come out now so the tooth fairy can visit her also. We finished the week with a Boy Scout hike in a near by park. It was such a wonderful evening. I enjoyed playing with my camera and the kids didn't mind too much me following them around trying to get pictures.

Sprinkler Fun!

2009-04-26T21:55:00.000-07:00

The pictures speak for themselves. They had a great time. Nana see how nice the flowers look! By mom planted all the flowers in the front yard. She did a great job.

Hawk Fest 2009

2009-04-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend. This is the first weekend in a long time that I remember not having to do anything - travel, judge, work. It was nice to just enjoy the weekend with the kids. We started Saturday playing in the sprinklers and I will post those pictures soon. Later in the day Nathan's school had their annual Hawk fest Carnival. Nathan's boyscout pack also got to do trash service to help out. We went an hour before our trash shift (which was not that hard). Some how we managed to skip spring this weekend and go straight to summer. IT WAS HOT when we first got there. Both kids and myself were feeling the heat. They started off riding the two rides. Nathan had this lost look in his eye and I thought maybe he was over heated but later realized he was just looking for his best buddy. They finally met up later and he was all smiles from that point on. Shay as always enjoys everything. Nathan's favorite activity is boy scouts and this is mainly due to his best buddy and his dad. Best buddy's dad is the tiger scout leader and he does a great job. I was proud that both Nathan and Shayla did a great job helping pick up trash while enjoying a great day outside with friends.

Pray for Kayleigh

2009-04-22T10:55:00.000-07:00

Please lift up this family today in your prayers. You can read about their journey by clicking on the picture.

Week 15 - Photo Challenge "Self-Portrait"

2009-04-20T11:13:00.000-07:00

In the Kids Category – the photo must be of me and one of my children. You also had to be holding the camera. I didn't really want to enter this week and this probably doesn't qualify as a self-portrait but I wanted to share anyway. My main reason not for wanting to enter is I don't really like getting my picture taken. I like taking the pictures. So I don't have very many if any of me in the picture with the kids. When I saw this picture of Nathan I loved his eyes. He has the greatest eyes. When I looked closer you can see me in his eyes taking the picture. I guess that kind of qualifies.

Check out all of the great "Self-Portraits" at I ♥ Faces -http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-15T06:04:00.000-07:00

More of March and April

2009-04-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

Shay ended her first season as an allstar cheerleading. She loves performing and being on stage so this activity is by far her favorite at this time in her life.

More of March and April

2009-04-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

Pictures for Nana and Papa

2009-04-13T17:05:00.000-07:00

Over the month of March and into April we've had a number of boy scout and cheerleading activities. I have not had time to post the pictures until now. Both Nathan and Shay love being involved with these activities. A big thank you again to Uncle John. Two of these events fell on the same weekend and Uncle John flew in and took Nathan on his trip to the mountains. Nathan loved having a all guys weekend.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T15:08:00.000-07:00

The kids and I had a fun Easter 2009. Yesterday we dyed eggs. I think this is the third year Nathan wanted Star Wars and Shay enjoyed her Elmo and Friends. Nathan was not really into the egg stuff this year like in the past. Wii was calling and he quickly stuck a few stickers on and went back to playing Wii. We had a friend over and spent time outside and at the park. It was a really nice day. If my allergies were not so bad we would have been out all day. This is the second year that my eyes won't stop itching. I'm going to the doctor on Monday. Last year it took a prescription to get them to settle down.

This is the first year Nathan has really enjoyed reading the story of Christ from the Bible. We spent time on Friday talking about why we celebrate Easter and what Good Friday was all about. He seemed to understand and appreciate our time together. We watched some of the Ten Commandments and he enjoyed already knowing about the story and what was happening. This morning before we went down stairs to do all the bunny stuff we sat together and read about the RISEN LORD. We've always talked about it this time of year but Nathan really seemed to understand what sacrifice was made for us.

The Easter Bunny left a "Hunt for the Golden Egg Game" for the kids and they really had a great time finding the clues and all the little presents and eggs along the way. Nathan did a great job reading the clues by himself. The Easter Bunny left him a couple of little Lego treats and he has spent most of the day building and creating ships and cars. Shay found ponies, puzzles, stickers and a book. She still loves playing with the eggs and putting things in and out of them. The golden egg held a small treasure for the both of them. I got smart this year and made sure that they either had their name on the eggs or Shay's were all pink. Nathan said a number of times that he would have all the eggs if it wasn't for the color coding and labeling. Shay is not the best finder in the world. She just walked in to let me know she found another of her eggs in the refrigerator. (the Bunny went all over the inside and outside of the house.)

We missed having Nana here this year to help with the eggs and hunt. Both kids have mentioned a number of times that they "Miss their Nana." I think this is the first Easter we've been with out Nana or other family members. We miss having them around.

Church was awesome and I am so thankful for our Risen Lord! With out these last three days we would have no hope. My hope is that everyone knows what the empty tomb has given to us. Thank you JESUS.

My Friend and I Week 13

2009-04-06T20:49:00.000-07:00

I am posting this entry of Nathan and his best buddy at I ♥ Faces.

This week is "My Friend" Week at www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com Stop by and see all the friends!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-01T06:21:00.000-07:00

I ♥ Faces "Anything Goes" Pet Week

2009-03-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

The first entry of Nathan worked fine so I thought I'd include the pets. If they were suppose to be in one entry I didn't realize that until it was to late. But I have to give a shout out to the best kid in the house "RUDY" He loves everyone, never complains, never gets in trouble, is sure to leave the room at the first sign of anyone else getting in trouble and the most willing snuggler in the house. We love our dog "Rudy"

Week 12 I ♥ Faces - Pouting

2009-03-30T19:57:00.001-07:00

This weeks catagory at I ♥ Faces is Pouting

This is the first time I've enter anything like this and am not sure if I understand how to do it. But I love looking at all the entries every couple of weeks. Hopefully this works.

This picture was taken last summer when we were attending a FCC event. We had just come in from the beach and Nathan really just wanted to go home. He survived the event was bored and not happy about being there.

Giving the New Camera a Try

2009-03-30T17:28:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful afternoon and spent part of the time at the park. I tried the new camera and love it. Thanks Rebecca. I need to read the directions I am not sure what all the buttons and settings are yet. I mostly left it in "auto". We had a great weekend and I will post more about that later. Thank you Uncle John for coming and spending time with us. Nathan had a great time.

Julie

Red Envelope Day

2009-03-30T12:37:00.000-07:00

Praying for Stellan and Baby Veiyah

2009-03-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

Please lift up these babies today if you have a moment.

For Where Two or Three are Gathered Together in My Name, There am I in the midst of them. - Matthew 18:20

Joined Twitter and Something New!

2009-03-19T22:05:00.001-07:00

GOOD BY WINTER!

I seem to have a hard time getting to the computer lately. Well I get here but not enough time to sit down and write a post. The last couple of months have been crazy with my traveling every weekend or every other one. Both Nathan and Shay were very glad to hear my traveling days are coming to an end. Travel ending meant it was time for my mom to return home. Which is not any where near us. We all miss her, Shay asked tonight "Are we going to get Nana at the airport tonight." I wish but Papa needs her at home and she needs some down time. It will take a couple of weeks to get use to her not being here. I guess I'll have to figure out the laundry thing again.

I joined Twitter mainly to follow and pray for other people. Please be praying for Abby, Kai (A Bouquet of Blessings)and Veiyah. Their families stories are an amazing testimony to our Heavenly Father. They are all such an inspiration as they deal with illness and cancer. Our life is good we are BLESSED.

I also joined Face Book which can take up WAY to much time along with blogging. I have to limit myself to one hour a day after the kids get to sleep.

My exciting news is that I bought a camera today. One thing I've always wanted to learn about is photography. My dad always took the best pictures. I remember him having his camera with him all the time when I was younger. My brother is great with his camera and I was so thankful he went to China with me. We have great memories from that time. Hopefully I will find the time to learn and use it.

I am looking forward to Easter and Spring Break. Hope the weather is warm so we can spend time outside.

I am WAY WAY OVER the one hour limit. Hopefully more pictures and post will be coming in the weeks to come.

Fun Pictures of Shay

2009-02-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

Thank you to my friend Lisa for the wonderful pictures of Shay and her friend. This past weekend in Atlanta we held our big event of the year. We have to be away from home for five days. Since Shay starts school next year I thought it would be fun for her to come and enjoy all the cheerleaders. She calls them "Big Comets." I didn't get to see her very much but she had a blast. The weekend was a big success and we were Blessed with a very smooth event. When you have that many people in one place you never know. God answered every prayer and then some. So many people did an awesome job. I'm still tired and Shay has her cough and fever back again but we have this weekend off and I can't wait to enjoy it with Nathan, Shay and my mom.

Chinese New Year Celebration

2009-02-09T20:50:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful time at our local Chinese New Year Celebration. It was great to see old friends. Shay and Nathan had a great time.

Pine Wood Derby Day

2009-02-01T15:01:00.000-08:00

The Batmobile made it's debut at our Pine Wood Derby. Nathan loves Boy Scouts more than any activity we do. He loves being with his friends and his leader is great. Our pack is just starting and is small but it is the perfect size for Nathan. He did a great job and was so happy to see his buddies cars. The four Tigers all raced together four times and we came in 3rd overall. At least we made it down the track in one piece. Nathan was hoping that they would each win one heat so they could all tie. His best friend won and represented the Tigers in the overall pack race.

It made me proud to see him happy for his friend and not worried about winning. He has had a great couple of days with many positive choices.

This past couple of weeks has been hard for him since I've worked more than usual. He keeps asking when we can have time just the two of us. It breaks my heart. We spent some time together this weekend but I owe him more one on one time soon.

Big Fun Weekend

2009-01-20T15:22:00.000-08:00

We had a fun filled weekend. Shay had her first two day cheerleading competition. Her division is the youngest and earliest of the event. This meant we had to get up "before the sun wakes up" as Shay would say. They had an OK day one and a great day two but in their world as long as there is a goody bag, medal and or trophy they don't care what place they finish.

Saturday we had a surprise party for Nathan. I thought he had figured out the party part but when he came in the door and heard everyone yell "surprise" his reaction was awesome. The boys played in the gym for a short time and then the second surprise started. He wanted a magician for his party this year so I found one online and hoped that he would do a good job. WOW the show was incredible. The kids and adults were all entertained. Nathan's favorite trick was the final one where Hocus the live rabbit appeared. I was amazed at most of his illusions.

We extended our weekend with a snow day - Yeah! Shay had never seen snow before and I woke her up last night so she could see it coming down. We had a great time throwing snow balls, attempting a snow man (ended up being a mini me snow man) and making snow angels. It will be gone by tomorrow but it was fun while it lasted.

Help the Saunders Family

2009-01-16T20:30:00.000-08:00

PRAY FOR SAUNDERS FAMILY - http://aplacecalledsimplicity.blogspot.com/
Linn and Dwight are the proud parents of 10 amazing children. They just recently brought #8 and #9, Elijah & Elizabeth home from Uganda. They are currently waiting to bring home #10, Jubilee from China. These darling souls are on fire for the Lord, and have such a passion to help all children find their forever families. They are such a fabulous example of how to be "Jesus" to others. Inspiring does not begin to describe these two. In their Journey to Isaiah in china and to Elijah and Elizabeth, several glitches were thrown their way, but never once did they waiver in faith. They clung to HIS promises, rallied all the prayer warriors, praised God every step of the way, and trusted in and relied totally on God to pull them through, And HE always did.
(Words from http://heart-smiles.blogspot.com/)

Wednesday their home burned down and they need everyone's prayers and help. Today their son Graham had appendicitis and needed surgery. If you want to read about their story please go over to their blog. Thank you!!!

Sick but Still Happy on His 7th Birthday

2009-01-16T16:25:00.000-08:00

We've not had much time this week to post. Nathan turned 7 on Tuesday. Unfortunately he was sick and had to stay home from school. We have a surprise for him this Saturday. I will have more pictures and things then. We are all tired and feeling a little under the weather so I need keep this short.

PRAY FOR ABBY

2009-01-13T17:07:00.000-08:00

Abby was adopted from Guatemala. At three years old, she was diagnosed with a high-risk, aggressive form of Leukemia. Certain genetic complications have put her chance of surviving the treatment at about 20%.

I am praying for her and her family. Would you pray for them too?

You can find more about Abby here, on her family blog: http://www.riggsfamilyblog.com/2009/01/about-abby.html

Chirstmas Morning

2009-01-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

Both my kids were very happy with what Santa left for them. Nathan kept saying "This is the best Christmas ever." and "I don't have any thing left on my list for my birthday." Shay just kept smiling and playing. Last year she had fun but she was really into it this year and it showed. The big kids i.e. Uncles and mom also had fun watching them play and helping Santa do his thing. We are very blessed and I hope my kids realize this someday. We sang happy birthday to Jesus and read the Christmas story the night before. I was most thankful to be together another year.

Santa Visit

2009-01-01T15:07:00.000-08:00

This was our annual vist to Santa Claus. We almost missed it this year. Thankfully we had time in Oklahoma to catch a quick visit. They both had a great time and shared their desires.

Uncle Time

2009-01-01T15:04:00.000-08:00

Nathan and Shay had the best time with their Uncles over the Christmas break. We were very sad to see them leave. I wish they didn't live so far away. I love you both and so do Shay and Nathan.

Christmas Catch Up

2008-12-31T19:12:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at Nana and Papa's house. The trip started off shaky when our flight was cancelled and they could not get us on another flight for 48 hours. So we decided to drive. On a good day me driving alone for 9 - 10 hours would be hard but I had stayed up way to late the night before cleaning and getting ready. My plan was to sleep on the plane. With God's grace we made it half way and spent the night at in TN. I thought after a good nights rest I should have an easier trip but I don't bounce back like I did in college after an all nighter. It takes MUCH longer now. Luckly I had friends to talk to on the phone (thanks Lisa, Mom and others). We made it before any of the flights they planned to put us on. The kids were great especially since I didn't really pack for an 18 - 20 hour car trip.

This first set of pictures is from our first couple of days before Uncle John came. We found a Bounce U. The kids love having Buddy our elf. Each day they had a great time finding him. This was the first time for Shay to meet Uncle Darren.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-18T19:56:00.000-08:00

This is the cover of our Christmas Card. Which I don't have yet so it will have to be a Happy New Year Card. We are very excited to be going to Oklahoma and see Papa, Nana, Uncle John and Uncle Darren. This will be Shay's first time to meet Uncle Darren.

Shay was Mary in her preschool play today. She did a great job and didn't forget her line and sang most of the songs. She loved watching herself on the DVD. Nathan had his class Christmas party and is excited about not having homework for the couple of weeks. I can't imagine what it will be like when we have real homework. Hopefully it will grow on him. He also had boyscouts tonight which is his favorite activity.

We get up really early tomorrow to start our travel adventures. Next stop Oklahoma.

We Elved Ourselves

2008-12-10T20:09:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-10T12:44:00.000-08:00

Deck the Halls 08

2008-12-05T23:55:00.000-08:00

We had a great time decorating the tree. I am so glad my mom was here this year. Everyone had a fun time and I don't think we broke anything.

Look Who Turned 5!

2008-12-05T19:35:00.000-08:00

Shay turned 5 on Monday, Dec. 1st. We had a great day and had her party at Monk*y Jo*s. It has been 18 months since she became my daughter and I can't imagine her not being here. We talked about her story before bed and I'm sure she doesn't understand all that we talked about. But she does know she came from China and that Mama loves her. Today she tells me "Jesus Loves Her and made her special."
Special Things about Shay's 4th year!
First full year at her forever home.
Had surgery to fix her palate and everything went so good - No longer needs Speech Therapy
Still loves to talk - all the time
Loves to eat - all the time
Favorite food Ramen Noodles
Very self confident
Favorite Activity - School
Favorite toys - Dress up - She is always a princess
Princess Ariel for Halloween
Sleeps with her stuffed animals and blanket but doesn't have a special one.
Thankful for "Candlesticks" (Story for another day - won't let her forget about that)
She loves to sing and read books (her own version)
Another story - Told her teachers the first day of school this year that - "They had to many rules and that she was not coming back the next day because they hurt her heart."
Seems to have lost most of her Mandarin but can still count, say hello, good bye and thank you
I feel so blessed to have her as my daughter. There are so many times I just have to thank God for letting me be her mom. She makes life joyful most of the time. There are times she gets in trouble and I can see that prissy side which will make the teenage years really fun. She feels the need to be the center of attention to often but what little girl doesn't.
On her birthday I could not help but think of her birth mother. I am so thankful for the choices she made. It must have been so hard for her. I hope she knows that she is loved and enjoying the life she has.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T21:03:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Wordless Wednesday With Words

2008-11-18T18:09:00.000-08:00

Look who lost their first tooth. Everyone is claiming some responsibility. I had noticed that his new teeth were coming in behind his baby teeth and I was afraid that the baby teeth might not ever get loose. Shay and Nathan were playing and he had taken her blanket and put it in his mouth. (Gross) She decide to yank it out of his mouth and loosened the tooth. He was not happy about that so I left it alone and the tooth stayed in for another week. Then we were reading and he really did not want to be reading which was beginning to build into an all out battle when he flung his arms and accidently hit himself in the mouth. Out came the tooth. He blamed me for making him mad but hey the tooth came out with out any fuss. I was such a whimp when I was little about teeth and was not looking forward to helping him since he is really bad with pain and boo boo's. But this was an answer to pray and now he wants to knock the rest of them out. Tomorrow he has to get a weakness fixed in one of his front teeth and is looking forward to going to the dentist. They have the coolest office with all kind of things for kids to do. Maybe I would like the dentist if I'd had that when I was younger. Right now I think the dentist ranks about last on my list of things I enjoy doing. The tooth fairy came and he got a couple of gold dollars. I can't believe he is growing up so fast.

First Cheerleading Competition

2008-11-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

Shay had her first cheerleading competition this past weekend and it was so much fun. She is a member of a Tiny Cheerleading team made up of 3 - 5 year olds. They practice once a week for one hour and compete a couple of time during the year. They were all so cute and did a great job. For their first time everyone performed and seemed to have fun. They got treat bags and a medal. I could not help but cry she makes me very proud and really does a great job. It is hard having coached for so many years to see her out there knowing where to go and what to do. She loves dancing, singing and performing so I think we might be in this for awhile.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-12T18:10:00.000-08:00

Fall Fun

2008-11-05T12:20:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2008-10-31T22:09:00.001-07:00

"Best Halloween"

2008-10-31T21:06:00.000-07:00

Nathan's First School Project on Vampire Bats

We had a great Halloween tonight. Marcia and Madeline joined us for Trick-or-Treating and both Shay and Madeline had a great time. Thank you for calling and joining us. Shay was Aeriel. She picked her from all the princesses and she was so cute. She is so into all of this and so excited. I love seeing both of them so happy and enjoying the experience. Nathan kept telling me when we got home that this was his best Halloween. (Something he says any time he really is enjoying himself)He was great and did a good job picking out his costume. He first wanted to be Rex from Clone Wars and then add some Batman parts because he also loves Batman. At school he earned some vampire teeth so they were added to create - Vampire Rexman. He was the only one. We did see some awesome Batmans. He was very proud and would show his retractable wings to anyone who would watch. Some where in the rule book for kids they learn about counting their candy. This was the first thing Nathan did when he got home. I never mentioned that to him but I do remember doing it when I was little. Shay has not discovered that rule but enjoyed watching him count and got so excited about reaching 100 and more. Later they answered the door and would give out candy Nathan complimented everyone on their costumes or would ask them what they were and then compliment them and Shay would go over the rules about only taking three pieces of candy and then ask everyone their names. So cute! I will try and post some pictures soon.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T04:29:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

Thankful Thursday

2008-10-29T21:47:00.001-07:00

God Thank you for my kids. They bless me each day with their smiles, hugs and kisses. Everyday Shay says "Mama I miss you when you at work" or "I miss you mama" Just today Nathan said with his head on my shoulder "This is the best day" Now later that day the statement was retracted but I choose to remember the first time. My heart aches when I lose my patient and see their faces drop or joy leave. I pray God will guide me each day help me to Love them as You Do Father! They are so special.

Can't Be Quiet

2008-10-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

PLEASE READ BEFORE MAKING YOUR CHOICE!

I have really struggled with this election. From the start I didn't like most of the candidates so I did not get involved and that was a mistake. We live in the best country in the World and God allowed me to live in this country. I should never take that for granted. Now this has become the most important election in our history. Our country could change more than anyone could imagine and not for the good. We are blessed with Freedom and have the right to make choices about what be beleive and how we will express those beliefs. I let life wrap me up to the point of not noticing anything else going on around me. These freedoms could be gone.

I have followed many blogs since adopting Shay. One of these blogs has given me back my drive and love for this Country. She has faithfully voiced information that many people are not willing to do. Thank you!

I support McCain. If you are undecided or are feeling like you may no longer trust Obama. Please go and read this blog she has all the information anyone needs to see how our country may be heading for the worst change any one could imagine.

http://www.deliveredfromheaven.blogspot.com/

For the most part I have always been a Republican. Why? Due to how I see God in my life. How HE has given me the freedom to choose HIM. I see HIM in how our Founding Fathers set up our government. Spreading the wealth and larger government control are not my idea of Freedom. I don't understand all I should but I do know that God is in control and I have and will be praying.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-10-28T21:05:00.001-07:00

Pictures - Where to Start???

2008-10-28T20:08:00.001-07:00

Today I was finally able to get some pictures loaded onto the new computer. The first thing that came to mind was Nathan. We just celebrated our 6th "Gotcha Family Day"

Here are some of the things I didn't want to forget about our 6th year together.

You are so smart and I am amazed everyday by your questions, remarks and ideas.
You asked Jesus into your heart in June of this year. My prayer is that you will seek God first each and every day of your life. You will know His Love, Peace, Mercy and Grace all the days of your life.
At the beginning of this year you were into Star Wars and Pirates. Star Wars has remained the entire year and with the start of Clone Wars I don't see it leaving any time soon. You also loved Perry the Platypus and did a project on Platypus in Kindergarten. You wanted to learn to play Chess and loved Legos. By the end of the year you add Batman and Bat's to things that you were interested in.
Your favorite thing to do was to play your DS - Legos Star Wars, Indiana Jones and Batman. I think Santa will be bring you a different player this year.
You started Kindergarten and loved school. This has continued into First Grade.
So far in First Grade you have only missed one spelling word. (You didn't get that gift from me - spelling was not and is not one of my strong points.)
We joined Boy Scouts and this has become your favorite activity.
We are still struggling with ADHD and some other issues but together we seem to be finding ways to make it work.
You became a great big brother to your sister. She loves you so much.
Spiders and bugs are still you least favorite things in the world.
Your favorite foods - Not many to pick from - Eating is just not important to you - Shrimp and Noodles at Nak*tos. Pop tarts, bacon, apples and waffles.
Pooh, yellow, back-up along with Perry 1 and 2 are still great helps at night and make you feel safe.
You made your first trip to the emergency room in an ambulance. Thank God is was not serious and later that day you were back to normal.
Favorite place to visit is the beach. The smile on you face and the way to play non stop with out fear makes me wish that we lived much closer to the ocean.
You saw the Space Shuttle blast off with Uncle John.
You still love to be held and give good hugs.

You are growing up so fast and I wish you could just stay how you are right now. I love you more than you know. I am blessed to be you Mama.

Finally New Computer

2008-10-25T18:29:00.000-07:00

I finally got the new computer up and running. Now I just have to add pictures to this computer. We are having a fun fall and look forward to Halloween. Shay is going to be Ariel or a Princess and Nathan has combined his favorite two things into Rex from Clone Wars with Bat Man. I can't wait to get some pictures. This is my favorite time of year. We have much to be thankful for. Check back soon for more updates and pictures.

Julie

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-10T09:40:00.001-07:00

School has started and Things are Good!

2008-09-09T07:31:00.001-07:00

Nathan is now in his third week of first grade. He loves going and this year started riding the bus. Our bus mainly just picks up the kids that live on our street so the ride is very short. He had a great first week and did ok the second week. His sensory issues and ADHD are being address and hopefully he can continue to have a fun time. (For Everyone!) His school is great and has done such a good job of helping him succeed. Nathan is also taking swimming, AWANA's and Boy Scouts. We are trying soccer but that may not work out. He has to take his medication early so it is working at the start of school by the time soccer comes around he is not able to stay in control. It is a three way losing situation - He just wants to talk and play with the kids but gets over stimulated and then causes the other kids and the coach not to be able to practice. In swimming he only has four children in his class so he gets to move more and is doing a great job. He really surprised me when we started AWANA's. The kids have to remember different scriptures and he learned his first verse in just three tries. He still knows it and can repeat it when ever I ask him. Boy Scouts will be starting this week and he is excited. There is never a dull moment with Nathan. He still loves Star Wars, Lego's and his DS player. We got this beautiful tutu on Etsy - Gocksfrocks‏ - ShayLa loves it! Shay started preschool three days a week and really would love to go five days. I have to tell her that school is closed so she stops asking when she can go. She is taking gymnastics, cheerleading, swimming and AWANA's. Since I am at the gym each day gymnastics is more like childcare but she loves going and is getting better very quickly. Her cheerleading team has their first exhibition coming up and that should be such fun. ShayLa also loves swimming and is doing a great job. She has no fear and should be going across the pool before long. It seems so hard to believe that she has only been her just over a year. I can't imaging what her life would have been like if she was still in China. I can't imagine what my life would have been without her in it. She loved watching the Olympics and every time would be sure we knew - that was her China!
This is our new addition C.J. - aka Chewie (Chewbacca) Jack (Sparrow) O'Brien. Nathan could not decide between the two so we went with the initials. I am not really a cat person but finally gave in and C.J. was officially adopted in late August. He was a rescue kitty. So far I have to say that cats are much easier than dogs. He is very loving and gets along great with Rudy. I think Rudy is glad to have him around. They keep each other company during the day while we are gone.

Sorry for not posting sooner. The time just gets away and my computer at home is not allowing me to post pictures any more. It is old and has a old owner that doesn't know how to fix it. I told Nathan that we needed to call the "Geek Squad". We have a new computer but I am not sure how to set up the internet "Old - Not Computer literate Owner" so I don't get around to blogging very much.

Julie

Late Happy 4th

2008-07-08T11:39:00.000-07:00

We are having a great time in Oklahoma seeing Nana and Papa. This is the first time for ShayLa to meet Papa. On the 4th we enjoyed the fireworks with Papa and both the kids kept saying this was the best fireworks they had ever seen. It was cute. I hope each year is the best. The days of our vacation are coming to a close and I've enjoyed resting and spend time with Nana and Papa. I finally found a bookstore where I could get online. So this will be the only post until we get back to Charlotte.

Julie

First Family Day June 18th 2008

2008-06-18T12:11:00.000-07:00

JUNE 2008

JUNE 2007

This has been such an amazing year. God has blessed my family with such a precious child. She finds so much excitement and joy each day. She is a drama queen but that makes life dramatic and fun most of the time. Every day I tell her she makes me smile.

I want to thank my parents for this past year. My mom stayed with us most of the year to help us all adjust to our new family. My job responsibilities changed which meant more traveling on the weekends but more time home during the week. To keep things consistent my mom (Nana) stayed with the kids when I was gone. This meant my Dad (Papa) was left in alone most of the time. They both allowed us to have the best possible start to a family of three.

Nathan has become a wonderful big brother most of the time. They can both give each other a run for the money when it comes to getting their ways. Neither is very good at backing down. Just what you would think a health brother sister relationship would be like.

ShayLa's Top Favorite Things That I Remember are:
1. Dress up - Being a Girly Girl
2. Loves Princesses - ALL OF THEM
3. Loves to eat - From day one she would eat whatever we gave her - Noodles still No. 1
4. Loves to sing -When she first came home she would sing in Mandarin all the time and slowly that changed to songs in English but the singing has never stopped. I love it! I know someday that may go away. I enjoy it and thank God she loves life and is Happy! Her brother on the other hand could do with a little less singing.
5. She prays every night and she lets God know everything that is going on in her life. We can't always understand what she is saying but I know God does and I can imagine Him just smiling and nodding so patiently.
6. She puts all her toys in purses and bags and carries them around.
7. She loves stuffed animals - This year her favorites were - Cat, Pet, Bear and Teddy
8. She loves to talk - All the time!
9. She knows no strangers - Always happy to say hi and ask questions
10. Loves to have her picture taken - She is a poser.
11. She loves to dance. She is usually singing or dancing now she has added skipping.
12. She loves her brother - Most of the time. She has learned to scream before he touches her just like any little sister would.
13. Did I mention she is dramatic - We never had much trouble communicating with her. You can always tell what she wants just from her expressions. Which are not always happy but it doesn't take much to get her back to smiling and having fun.
14. School - Loves going and seeing her friends
15. Cheerleading - Loves to watch and is excited about starting
16. Bath time - After bath being a Baby and letting mama rock her and sing "I love you" from Barney. Then she sings it back to me. So sweet.
17. Mandarin classes - She loved playing and singing songs. She still understands Mandarin but doesn't speak much any more.
18. Mama - She tells me that I am her best friend. Everything had to be the same for the longest time. I had a drink so she needed a drink. I was eating so she was eating. She would point out all the things that were the same.
19. Loves to say "Oh My Gosh" for just about everything new and exciting. It is so cute when she puts her hands up to her mouth.
20. I could go on and on - I don't want to forget any of these things. She is growing up so fast.

She also had some hard times. When I tell people that she is not always happy they can't believe it. She is really good at whinning. This is something we really had to work on and still do. No one is perfect don't we all know.

If anyone has questions about adopting an older child or one with a cleft lip and palate please let me know. She is wonderful and neither issue has been a problem. I love China and pray for her birth family each day. I am so thankful they chose to give her life. I am thankful that God chose me to be her Mama.

Julie