KnockonWood

2012-01-15T20:19:00.001-06:00

‎1.15.2012 ~ Mad's has been picking up our neighbors dog poop from their 3 dogs for 6 months so she can buy stuffed animals to give to the children in Cook Children's Hospital. She earns $20.00 a month & sets aside $10.00 each month specifically for the stuffed animals. We went and bought 12 fuzzy toys yesterday from Kohls. She is so excited to give to kiddos who are in the hospital "so they wont be scared." as she says. I love my daughter & her compassionate heart.

2012-01-14T20:17:00.000-06:00

1.14.2012 ~ come on, you knew this was going to happen sooner or later. GO NINERS!

1~13~2012

2012-01-13T17:33:00.000-06:00

a small old church on I-20 somewhere between Abilene & Sweetwater.

2012-01-12T19:49:00.001-06:00

Old Oak in Taos, NM

2012-01-11T19:47:00.000-06:00

Icicles

2012-01-10T19:45:00.000-06:00

JOY!!!

2012-01-09T19:41:00.000-06:00

Aspen on top of ski slope in Sipapu NM ski resort. 30 second time exposed at 8:30pm

2012-01-08T19:37:00.000-06:00

30 second time exposed picture of a campfire on top of a ski slope at 8:30pm. Yes we hiked up the slope and did not take the lift. needless to say I was quite winded.

2012-01-07T19:32:00.000-06:00

Our van in the wheel well of a semi @ 75mph.

1.6.2012

2012-01-06T19:26:00.000-06:00

Hello

1.5.2012

2012-01-05T22:51:00.003-06:00

Shadows

Moon Over Fort Worth, TX

2012-01-04T21:39:00.001-06:00

Taken January 4, 2012

1967 Ford Mustang

2012-01-03T22:03:00.000-06:00

This is my car, well the car I've always wanted.
Shhhh, Let us just let the pictures speak for themselves.

Laying on the floor in PetSmart taking pictures

2012-01-02T17:19:00.006-06:00

I met sweet Sasha, the 8 month old American Bull Dog, in PetSmart today. She was playful & energetic & she captivated my girls with her all around cuteness. Okay, she captivated me as well, why do you think I took her picture.

2012-01-01T20:44:00.000-06:00

2011-12-31T21:14:00.000-06:00

2011-12-30T22:55:00.002-06:00

Fort Worth in the RearView Mirror

Picture It 366

2011-12-30T17:45:00.000-06:00

As you may have seen, I've been posting many pictures lately. I have decided (thanks to a friend's insiration) to take a picture a day for this year & share them with you. I am calling my endevor PictureIt366. Why 366, aren't there 365 days in a year you ask? Why yes, yes there is but this year is leap year so there will be 366 days hence the name PictureIt366. I hope you enjoy all my photo's as much as I have & will enjoy taking them. Have a wonderful 2012.

Clarity & Wisdom in 1863

2011-11-24T08:45:00.017-06:00

It is the duty of nations as well as of men to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God; to confess their sins and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the Lord.

Know that by His divine law, nations, like individuals, are subjected to punishments and chastisements in this world. May we not justly fear that the awful calamity of civil war which now desolates the land may be a punishment inflicted upon us for our presumptuous sins, to the needful end of our national reformation as a whole people?
We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation has ever grown.

But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.

Abraham Lincoln October 3rd 1863

Happy Thanksgiving ~ snicker, snicker, snicker

2011-11-19T20:55:00.003-06:00

I am truely amazed that I still laugh hysterically when I watch this episode of WKRP in Cincinati. This show had me in stiches in almost every episode, the writers and actors worked together well. They do not make them like this anymore.

slight glimpses of autumn

2011-11-16T11:34:00.003-06:00

Here in N. Texas we rarely get the beautuful colors of Autumn but every once in awhile we get a glimpse of what Autumn is all about. Beautiful.

Nai Nai's Here

2011-11-12T11:30:00.002-06:00

No our girls are not getting ready for Halloween, their Nai Nai is here and they are soaking up every ounce of every nanosecond they can possibly absorb.

Nauseated

2011-11-10T15:58:00.004-06:00

Dear Penn State Students who are rioting in support of Joe Paterno,

KNOCK IT OFF!!! Everyone in the country realizes that it was Sandusky alone who tragically ended the childhoods of an untold number of children. BUT there also was an enormous failure on so many levels & by so many people to prevent further tragedy & harm to more children & provide justice for the ones already harmed.

Joe Paterno played a major part in that failure! Mike McQueary, who witnessed an assault occurring and did nothing played a major part of that failure, the athletic director played a major part of that failure; the administration played a major part of that failure. HOW IN THE WORLD can a person receive a position of honor such as Coach Emeritus after allegations of & being observed sexually abusing a child. Sandusky was rewarded it is that simple & it is appalling. Everyone who had a hand in NOT reporting these incidents to law enforcement authorities are responsible.

We all make choices in our lives & the choice by Paterno, McQueary, the AD, the Administration to NOT act in advocacy for these children, but in turn rewarded Sandusky with the position of Coach Emeritus are RESPONSIBLE in some way shape or form! They in effect, by their OMISSION TO ACT, gave Sandusky a free pass to continue his destruction of childhoods.
The Board of Trusties absolutely did the right thing in firing Paterno. By Paterno's OMITTING TO ACT (other than informing the Administration) he put countless more children at risk to Sandusky's torture & cruelty. JUST THINK OF WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED IF PATERNO STOPPED THIS WHEN HE FOUND OUT...HEAR THAT IT IS THE SOUND OF LAUGHTER BY THE CHILDREN SPARED FROM SANDUSKY'S TORTURE BUT INSTEAD ALL WE HEAR IS TEARS!

Yes, Paterno is a great coach & did deserve all the accolades of being a great coach but the moment he failed to notify police of Sandusky’s sexual abuse of children he forfeited the honor of being the head coach of Penn State, he forfeited the honor of receiving all the accolades of being the most winningest coach in college football, he forfeited the honor of respect from people like me. Paterno should not be allowed to coach even one nanosecond more of Penn State football. Paterno is not the only one who, by their inaction, should forfeited their jobs, accolades, & respect, there are many more & if Penn State Board of Trustees is serious about reestablishing the reputation of the school they will fire more coaches, staff, & administration officials, all of which turned a blind eye to Sandusky’s abuse.

Paterno’s comments to press & “supporters” outside his home last night were even more sickening to me as a human being. Paterno’s hollow statement of “I’m praying for these children” is just utterly unacceptable. For Paterno to come out and say he is praying for these children AFTER he did nothing and could have stop it ten years ago is absurd and ridiculous! What Paterno SHOULD have said is:

“I am sorry. I failed these children, I failed their parents, I failed this community, I failed school when I did not report Sandusky to the proper authorities. There is nothing I can do to now but admit I was wrong by not reporting what I knew ten years ago immediately. I am truly sorry for my inaction and beg forgiveness from the children who were hurt and their families and from God.”

Only after a statement somewhat like that will I accept his comment of, “I am praying for these children”.

In addition, the Board of Trustees should be adamant that any financial settlements that arise from this cover up should come solely out of the Penn State Football budget and nowhere else.

Ranger's take the ACLS

2011-10-16T20:07:00.004-05:00

^{in picture, Adrian Beltre & Ian Kinsler}The celebration started in the bottom of the 3rd & lasted late into the night. Congratulations to my Texas Ranger's for heading to the World Series for the 2nd year in a row. Priceless picture.

Fans Show Their Spirit

2011-10-15T20:32:00.000-05:00

Accident or Divine?

2011-08-18T09:33:00.005-05:00

Life is just too intricate and delicate to be an accident.

Good 'Ol Summer Time ~

2011-08-14T16:16:00.008-05:00

Love these summer days especially when they are not a gazillion degrees outside. Had a wonderful day with Bek's yesterday at the zoo while Kelly & Mad's enjoyed a 13 mile bike ride to downtown & back to the park near our old house.

2011-08-13T21:16:00.001-05:00

I just popped up to say "hi"our neighbors doberman loves to peek over their 6" fence

Summer Fun

2011-08-13T10:20:00.003-05:00

This Summer has been hotter than usual this year with 40 days of 100+ degree temperatures. Thankfully, we had a wonderful break from the heat yesterday evening and this morning. RAIN! The storms teased us on Thursday but broke through last night. We have got 1.50" inches of rain since last evening and I am excited I do not have to water my lawn this Sunday. The girls have had their fun swimming and playing in the sprinkler. Bek's has become a pretty good swimmer, although when she comes up to take a breath she stops kicking her legs and down she goes. Mad's went to Horse camp for a week at the local stables and now wants a horse. UGH! We have begun shopping for school supplies. Mad's is excited to see all her friends again but not so much about having homework again. Bek's begins a new school this year and we are looking forward to a 3 day a week program for her. I love summers and am sad that my girls have to go back to school, I enjoy them so much.

2011-03-20T13:08:00.004-05:00

Today is the 1st day of spring. Spring is one of my favorite times of the year. I get so excited about the tree blossoming and waking from their winter nap. The grass turns bright green and all the wild flowers beging popping up everywhere. Growing up in California when you began seeing the Yellow Poppies you knew spring was near. Mom made up a song, "I see California Poppies, I see California Poppies, I see California Poppies, that means spring is near." I know it is just a simple little song but even today whenever I see the Texas Bluebonnets blooming I think of that song and I am taken back driving in the car with Mom singing that song & enjoying goofy times with my mother. I find I get excited over the simplest of things and a full orange moon is one of them. Last night I was able to take some pictures of a big orange moon rising over field with a church in the far distance. Tonight I will be out again, the moon is suppose to be the closest to the earth since 1983. I am amazed at God's creation and how it puts me in awe.

2011-02-19T19:54:00.004-06:00

I have begun my journey of reading, "Jesus among other god's" by Ravi Zacharias and for those of you who know me know this is no small undertaking. I hate to read, simply becasue I am not good at it and dyslexia adds a whole extra dimension to my comprehension. I have read to page 12 in 3 days of reading, did I tell you I hate reading.

2011-02-09T14:09:00.004-06:00

September 11, 2008 we were blessed with Rebekah Wei. What a difference 2 years make. She has grown so much and what a personality she has.WE cannot imagine our life without her, sne is such a blessing.

"mama said there'd be days like this!"

2011-02-09T13:25:00.002-06:00

Letter to a Friend

2011-02-04T20:00:00.000-06:00

Candace,
Words do not come easily to me and I am not the most eloquent writer either but I want to tell you how sad I am for the loss of your mother. But what an amazing blessing you and your family had to usher your mom into the presence of God. I know from the loss of my mother 6 years ago what a privilege and blessing it was to be with her, singing to her, reading to her, & telling her it was time to go be with Jesus. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do so far in my life but as I look back on it and the tears come they only last for a short time as they turn into JOY. They turn into joy because my mother is where she was meant to be all along. She is perfect and new and for that I cannot be sad too long. The song, “This is My Destiny” by Dennis Jernigan always comes to mind when I think about my mother's death. In it, it says "What once bound me is not more! What was stolen is restored! By the resurrection power of my King! What was old has been made new; Lies and doubts replaced by truth! What was silent now resounds, I AM REDEEMED!"
Candace, the disease that bound your mom all these years is gone, she is free from it and the abilities of hers that were stolen by this disease have been restored. She is a new creation now! And if she was unable to talk when she died she is now shouting, "I am redeemed!!" When my mother died she was not able to do the most basic things, she could not walk, sit up, or talk. But the moment her life ended here on earth she was free of everything that bound her. She could walk, run, & dance. She could talk & sing! All the doubts she had, questions, every lie that was ever told to her by satan were gone, her eyes were open to see the truth. For that I am joyful.

Missing your mom will never go away; it will never become "easier" as time goes on. You will find yourself picking up your phone to call her just to talk or tell her some joyful news in your life then remember and begin to cry. I pray your sadness will only last a short while and be replaced by joy. I pray that God will give you His peace. The peace spoken about in Philippians 4:6 & 7, "Do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your heart and your mind in Christ Jesus."
I begged God for this peace the Thanksgiving before my mother died and He gave it to me. I had been lying on my bed crying for hours pleading with God to heal my mom then all of a sudden my prayers changed. I began praying for His peace instead and after some time I believe I was given that peace. It started as a “pin prick” to my heart then spread throughout my whole body. I stopped crying and only said “Okay”. I do not know what I was saying okay to but later I realized, regardless what happened, if God healed my mother or not, I was going to be “okay”. I cannot explain this peace but it has continued with me through my brother and father-in-law’s deaths. I am sad for myself and my girls that they will not get to know their grandmother, uncle, or Yeye. But I am Joyful for them because they are new and perfect and with Jesus Himself.

I pray God will give you and your family this peace. I love you Candace, you are a dear friend to me and a beautiful godly woman. Your mother helped shape you into who you are today and her influence on your life will truly shine through you the rest of your life. If you need anything please let me know.

Its been a winter cooped up in the house wonderland

2011-02-04T19:51:00.005-06:00

Early Tuesday Morning the cold came and has not left yet. Late Monday night into Tuesday morning we had thunderstorms, freezing rain, sleet, & snow. Our temps did not get above 22° for 3 days so all our snow turned into thick ice. UGH! School was cancelled the rest of the week. Mad's school actually could not be accessed becasue the driveway gates froze shut not to mention the the parking lot turned into an ice skating rink. Last night it snowed leaving 5" of snow in our front yard. The sun came out which made all the difference and warmed us up to 33°. So after 3 days of not going out of the house I took advantage of the sun and took the girls outside. They had a blast with our many neighbors. What a beautiful day it was, one of my best. So the thaw has begun. Looking forward to tomorrow and for a 40° day.

2010-06-24T21:48:00.007-05:00

Earlier this month on June 6th we celebrated the 6th anniversary of Madeline's Gotcha Day. I usually set aside time on that day to take some pictures but this year I got side tracked. We were able to get to the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens this morning for a short 45 minutes to take pictures. By 11am it was not real hot but the humidity was awful!
I could not keep Madeline's face dry and my temper, well lets just say it was hanging on by a frayed thread. I was able to get some good pictures of her. Boy has she changed since that first moment she was put in our arms. We have been truely blessed each day since that not so distant June afternoon.

2010-06-23T10:44:00.003-05:00

"...He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete."

Unfortunately, these doves believe this is the best place to build their home but in a way they are kind of like the man who built his house without a foundation. It may look solid at first but once the rain comes it will all be washed away.

visitors

2010-06-22T21:30:00.002-05:00

Look who stopped by to take a dip in our dog pool. He is very lucky I found him first and not the dogs.
"Hello"

2010-06-17T13:16:00.020-05:00

SEA WORLD

+

SHAMU

=

FUN

RiverWalk Fun
Eating Limes
I don't like limes
RiverWalk River Cruise
Ready for Sea World
YES! I put them on myself!
Ready for SHAMU!
Not Afraid
SWINGING
watching the fish
riding the Shamu Express ~ ALONE
I love the Beluga Whales
Screaming on the Log Ride
AHHHHHHHHHHHH
S*H*A*M*U
Shamu Rocks
Madeline getting SOAKED in the Splash Zone
All Wet
SOAKED
Laughing
Mad's, Kelly, Trish
wink wink
Journey to Atlantis Ride ~ Kelly, Mad's, Sue Sue, & Nathan are in the back row
wait for it
Here it Comes!!!
Splash!!!
Soaked & all smiles
Guns Up Daddy
3 days without a nap is pushing it
Hello from the Rio Loco
Here Soooweeeeeeee
Time with Sue Sue
Nathan after he had just won the "nathan" sized plush shamu toy
waving at Shamu
Kelly & Mad's right before they got soaked
WoW
Amazing
Static Electricity
Alamo Well
The Family
Pretzel Glasses

2010-05-18T18:53:00.003-05:00

I know if I do not ever want to go through that again, I know that Madeline does not want to either! What an awful experience!! Yes those are TEETH!! Madeline had to have her 2 lower cuspids pulled to allow room for her other teeth to grow in. Thing was, they were not even remotely loose. You can see that one of them was close to 3/4 of an inch long with the other not very far behind. UGH!!! She was brave up until the time the mouth holder opener went in and then the tears burst out of her little eyes. I was good until the tooth puller thing~a~ma~jig came out. There is just something about your child going through something that scary & painful and you cannot do anything about it. Whats worse, I set up the appointment and drove her there. I was in tears as well. I called Kelly once we were out of there and told him this is the last time I do that, next time it is his turn. Rebekah was with us and did her best to try to comfort Madeline by holding onto her foot but in the end she just stood in the corner during the worst of it. Madeline got her favorite food, Boston Market Macaroni & Cheese for dinner along with a Wendy's frosty.

still all smiles in the beginning
Tears, gauze, & groggy
the craters left behind
smiles return
the cuspids

laughed so hard it hurt.

2010-05-08T20:22:00.008-05:00

Mad's had her first T~Ball game today. Kelly and I laughed so hard our sides hurt. Kids were everywhere. When the ball was hit 2 or 3 of them would converge on the ball. One time the 1st baseman ran all the way to 3rd to try and field the ball. WHAT A WONDERFUL TIME WE HAD! She has been so excited for this day she was counting down the days. Her team is the Orioles and boy did they play their hearts out. Each batter has 3 chances to hit a pitched ball, if they do not hit the ball they then hit off the tee. There are no outs and no runs are not counted, the team simply bat through the line up one time and their side of the inning is over. I was very proud of Mad's, when she hit the ball her first at bat she ran right to 1st base without hesitation. Although, when it was her time to run to 2nd she was a little confused where to go. It was funny, she stood with both feet on the base almost at attention. There were 2 ball hit towards her and she nearly caught one of of them. She did knock it down though but did not know where to throw it after she picked it up. Mad's did hit a ball that was pitched at her. She hit it off her hand and it was more of a bunt than a hit but as with all the batters she made it to 1st.
Ready to catch the pop up. She missed it but I love the face. I wish the camera focused on her instead of the other kiddos.

She did not field this one but she stop it

Watching the ball

Swinging at a pitch...keep your mouth closed

1st hit off the TEE

Crossing homeplate, no I do not think she touched homeplate

Waiting for the hit

In the outfield, which is actually in the in field

Heading to the plate

Ready to bat

Watching the ball

Mad's 1st hit which was more of a bunt

2010-05-05T20:37:00.012-05:00

Lets Play Ball!

Today was Mads 1st T~ball practice and what a practice it turned out to be. She is the oldest and the only girl on her team. She is a Baltimore Oriole. Mads was sad at first when she learned she was not a Texas Ranger but perked up when I told her she would wear a ORANGE hat, she loves the color orange. It was a typical first T~Ball practice balls being thrown in everywhere, going threw the kiddo's legs, and bats being swung in every direction. It was a great practice! I absolutely love watching the kiddo's having such a wonderful time. Kelly, helped coach the kiddo's hitting the ball off the Tee, I think he had about as much fun as Mads did. I could not help out very much seeing I am still on doctors restrictions from my surgery so I just took pictures. I had to laugh out loud when the practice ended. Almost immediately three little boys were playing in the home plate dirt.

We have been working with Mads for the past couple of months so she is a good at throwing and hitting off a tee. She is getting better at catching and fielding but she needs a lot more practice batting a pitched ball. She has a pretty good swing but she usually swings early.

Tonight, Coach Payne put Mads at 2nd base. I thought she would be happy becasue Ian Kinsler (her 2nd favorite Ranger) plays 2nd but she was sad becasue she really wants to play Left Field, Josh Hamilton's position.

Play Ball

2010-04-25T20:50:00.006-05:00

Mads birthday ended with a bang last night. One of her birthday presents was a day at the ballpark watching her loved Texas Ranger"s play the Detroit Tigers. When we got there we learned we were chosen for a complimentary upgrade of our tickets to right behind Homeplate. Also, while watching the Ranger's warm up Mads saw her favorite player, Josh Hamilton in centerfield. She called out to him a couple of times and when he heard her he waived and she added on, "It's my birthday." Josh threw a few more times then turned & again waived to us motioning he was going to throw her a ball. I ran and got my glove while he walked a bit closer to throw it. All the while what was going on in my mind was, "don't miss the ball, you better catch this ball!" Thankfully, or maybe luckily, I caught the ball and Mads day, maybe even year, was made. The Ranger's lost the game but wow what a day it was. On the way home she fell asleep mid sentence.
Mads starts ball T-Ball/Coach Pitch baseball league tomorrow. We have been working with her to learn to catch the ball, she throws (not like a girl) and hits pretty well but still had not got the hang of catching. Well tonight she got the hang of it. Kelly spent about an hour and a half with her tonight. She is excited to play on a "real" baseball team and we are hoping she GREAT! Play Ball Keep your eyes open and you won't get hit in the chin Finally a catch Getting the signal from the catcher Visualizing the strike The wind up The strech Throw Keeping her eye on the ball

2010-03-24T07:14:00.002-05:00

"Governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed... Whenever government becomes destructive to life, liberty, or property [i.e., the pursuit of happiness], it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it... It is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security."

— American Declaration of Independence (1776)

M.O.L.A.

2010-03-06T11:47:00.009-06:00

The Museaum Of Living Art at the Fort Worth Zoo is FINALLY open! A year and a half after when it was suppose to open. I had no plans on packing up the girls opening day but as zoo members we got to go in early before the crowds. OR SO I THOUGHT! What I failed to consider is the zoo has many members and the place was packed full of pushing kiddos and kamakazi mothers with strollers...I, of which, was one of them. The M.O.L.A. is an amazing new exhibit and the animals were cooperative as well. The girls and cousin Nathan had a wonderful time. Even Rebekah, who is afraid of ladybugs, enjoyed herself but kept her distance. She suprised us a few time by actually touching the glass.

2010-02-27T16:49:00.002-06:00

Madeline and I ran in the Fort Worth Cowtown 5K this morning. It was a chilly start but we warmed up quickly once we began moving and the sun rose over the buildings. There was literally a sea of people lined up for the start. We were about 10 yards back from the starting line, I felt like cattle waiting to be herded.This was a first for both of us, running in a 5K. I have been told not to run seeing that the majority of the cartilage is missing in my right knee.I did anyway and my knee made it all of 5 minutes before it buckled and lost most of its strength. I was able to continue to the end but slowly which was not a bad thing. At first Madeline had a hard time running at an even place. She wanted to sprint the whole race but quickly realized that it was longer than she had expected and slowed to a more even pace. We ran most of the race only walking for 3 short distances.
We crossed the finish line with a time of 1 hour 7 minutes 56 seconds and I thought "WOW, that hour went fast." I looked at my watch and realized we had only been running for 25 minutes. I later learned that either the "kids 5k run" was marked off wrong or a "course monitor" sent the whole lot of us on the wrong route. We ACTUALLY only ran a 2.5K (1.8 miles). Again, this turned out not to be a bad thing and my knee was very appreciative. I know the 2 weeks of pain I am going to have in my knee is all worth the GREAT time spent with Madeline today.
Crossing the finish line ~ YEAH
All smiles before the race

2010-02-18T20:22:00.003-06:00

Spring is Coming!!!

What a beautiful day it was today after a record breaking snowfall for the DFW area one week ago. There are still snow patches here and there but they are quickly dwindling in the mid 60's temps. I noticed today that my lone rosebush Madeline gave me for Mother's Day last year is showing signs of spring with budding leaves. This was a shock to me seeing that I neglected to cover it during several cold spells. BUT thankfully it survived and I excited for the beautiful roses that will don our dining room table this year. I also noticed the trees around our neighborhood are also budding. I am excited for this spring and especially for the warmer temps.

2010-02-14T12:54:00.005-06:00

Xīn Nián Kuài Lè
Happy Chinese New Year!!!!!
Have a wonderful Year of the Tiger

2010-02-13T09:53:00.000-06:00

The Fort Worth Stocking Show & Rodeo ~ With the weather report saying it was going to be in the mid 50's we all ventured off to the stockshow only to discover the weather report was way off. The cloud cover never broke and needless to say it was very chilly. Becasue we waited to the last weekend to go, all the animals were gone except for the rabbits. Spotted Giant Rabbits are HUGE!! Madeline picked out many new rabbits she would like to have.What is it about tractors and kids. Madeline had to climb into every tractor & horse trailer she saw. Rebekah was content to remain in the stroller where it was warm.

Madeline has turned out to be a bit of a dare devil riding some big girl rides. Tilt-a-Whirl for one. She and I rode the Scorpion and I got sick and a migraine, Madeline just laughed. Rebekah on the other hand was content with the petting zoo. She stayed away from the bigger animals but the baby goats she was all over.The day ended with both girls worn out and asleep within minutes after getting in the car.

2010-02-11T19:02:00.003-06:00

The DFW area has experienced a record snowfall since 1978. As of 4:30pm 6 1/2 inches of snow have fallen and it is still coming as I write. And because of this record snowfall I can now say at 42 I have shoveled my first driveway full of snow. Although, it now has about 3/4 of an inch of snow on it again.
The girls have had a wonderful day of playing in the snow and making a snow bunny that has already fallen over. Rebekah took a while to warm up to the snow but she soon settled in and enjoyed throwing tiny snowballs at me. She giggled so much. When we were inside she would stand at the front storm door and ask "go play in snow?" Although, she had a the most difficult time walking in the deeper snow. If you think of it, 5" of snow is almost up to her knees.

can you spot the rabbit??

2010-02-10T12:56:00.003-06:00

Ne·glect ~ To leave undone or unattended to especially through carelessness.

This is exactly what I have done regarding my blog over the last 3 months or so. My mind has not been all that focused lately and when I do take the time to sit down and update my blog I cannot find the words to say. I will try to muster up some words now but cannot be sure how coherent they will be and I am hoping to not confuse those few who keep up with me here.

The other day I was listening to music while cleaning out & rearranging my garage when the song "Jesus Paid it All" came on. A song I have listened to many times and is one of my favorites. Although, this particular day the words in verse 3 struck me with a deeper meaning than I had never afforded them. As the words came I just stopped lowered my head and through tears smiled.
"And when before the throne
I stand in Him complete,
Jesus died my soul to save
my lips shall still repeat
I thought about my Mother, brother, and Father-in-law, all who have gone on to be with Jesus. Life without them has not been easy, every day I think of them and long to see their face and hug their neck. I remember praying fervently for their healing and though I have a peace, I always wondered why my prayers went "unanswered".

Or so I thought!

As the words of the song poured over me it was as if a switch was turned on and my eyes were opened ~ THEY ARE COMPLETE!! My prayers were not unaswered as I had thought, they were answered but not in the way I had wished for them to be. There is no more perfect healing than to be COMPLETE in the Lord. That doesn't mean their absense is any less painful. But as I think of them now I am reminded that what it was that limited them is gone, what it was that was stolen from them by disease has been restored, what was silent now sings and the old is new. What a JOY that is! I will still cry when I think of them and long they were here with me. But, I rest in the promise of God that I will be reunited with them, that they are a new creation and there is no sadness,disease, or pain in heaven. I am so very thankful that we do not greive as those who have no hope.

2009-12-20T14:46:00.006-06:00

I have been distracted for the past few months & have neglected my blog. Here are a few goings on that have been going on at the Wood household.

December 1st, 2009 we had our 1st snowfall in Fort Worth. It was about 1/4" deep & all gone in 2 hours. Though, it motivated Madeline to get ready for school in record time so she could play in it before she headed off to school. It was nothing like what is going on in back East right now but what do you expect it's Texas.

December 18th, 2009 ~ Hello Santa. It was a very joyous time for Madeline and Nathan but Rebekah, well the picture says it all...

December 20th, 2009 ~ Madeline pulled her tooth today, by accident albeit but she pulled it and let out with a shreik, "IT'S OUT ~ IT'S OUT!!" There was a look of horror & Joy on her face.

2009-11-26T10:00:00.000-06:00

I am thankful that Heaven is sweeter today than it was 13 days ago. I am thankful that I do not greive as one who has no hope. I am thankful that one day I will see my family that have gone before me. I am thankful to have known the man Ronnie Wood and call Dad. Eventhough my heart is heavy with sadness, I am THANKFUL.

OOUUCCHH!!!!

2009-11-02T19:22:00.003-06:00

The evening started out very nice, I was in the kitchen cooking dinner and Madeline and Rebekah were playing very happily with a pick blanket. Then I ask Madeline to go get something out of my bathroom and she takes off eagerly to help but forgets that Rebekah was still holding on to the blanket. BAM! WAIL! Rebekah's forehead went right into our door frame. NO I did not see the goose egg right away. It seemed to appear out of no where. When I initially looked at her forehead I could have sworn there was no bump but a few seconds later when I looked again there it was in all its glory. I do not do bumps on the head very well and needless to say I freaked out. I sent Madeline to her room with a holler, she was in tears by the way shouting "sorry, I'm sorry." I called Kelly and told him what had happened and that I was on my way to Sonic to get some ice. Then I called my friend Elissa, who is a RN to exploit her knowledge yet again. Thank you Elissa for being so understanding and letting me interrupt your dinner. All that said, Rebekah is fine, a bit of a headache though. She is playing patty cake and animal flashcards with Madeline. We know she will have at least 1 black eye as the goose egg goes down. I am sure I will not get too much sleep tonight but am thankful right now that it is just a goose egg and not worse.

Irony

2009-11-01T07:07:00.003-06:00

Irony ~ [ahy-ruh-nee] ~ an outcome of events contrary to what was, or might have been, expected.

I just do not understand it. Day Light Savings Time comes to an end, I do everything right. I keep the girls up 1 1/2 hours later than normal and I even go to bed at my normal time to take full advantage of the extra hour of sleep and STILL my girls wake up at their normal time which in NOW 5:3Oam. UGH!

On the bright side, and there is one, Rebekah was making cute happy sounds and she could have been crying and fussing so there is something to be thankful for.

2009-10-31T22:26:00.003-05:00

"This is the GROSSEST THING EVER!!!" Was the exclaimation Madeline made as she put her hand into a pumpking for the first time. Rebekah on the other hand had a blast digging in. I did not know how readily Rebekah would take to the whole trick or treating thing but she quickly understood that if she sees a bag it will have candy in it. Well, she began going up to everyone who had a bag, which was pretty much EVERYONE holding out her hand. We had a wonderful night visiting our old church home, Wedgwood Baptist Church, at their fall festival. I had a great time seeing friends I had not seen in a long time. Madeline chose to be a Princess, go figure, and Rebekah,who had not choice in the matter, was a leapord. Thank you Ellen Abshire for the hand me down costumes.

2009-10-23T15:43:00.006-05:00

Madeline got it into her head a while back that she wanted to get her hair cut and donate her hair to Locks of Love. We had to wait for several months while she grew her hair out. I was very frustrated becasue when we first started planning for this Locks of Love hair length requirement was 8 inches, then 9 inches and now 1O inches so we had to continually push back the hair cut. WELL, finally today was the day. We made the appointment on Monday and every day Madeline would say several times, "I wish today was the day to get my hair cut." She was so excited and really likes her new hair cut.

Rebekah had her first "real" haircut today as well. The mullet haircut I gave her a few months back is GONE GONE GONE. She just sat there and did not move at all. I was so proud of her.

2009-10-18T20:59:00.004-05:00

The GREAT Pumpkin search of 2009. We found a place here in town a few years back that sells pumpkins from Kelly's home town and the self proclaimed pumpkin capital of the world, FLOYDADA, TX. Rebekah simply loved wandering around saying "orng, eat orng" and patting every pumpkin she came to. Madeline went running through the patch finding the perfect pumpkin over and over again. We settled on 3 and will be carving them up 2 days before halloween.

2009-10-08T08:56:00.000-05:00

2009-09-27T19:21:00.005-05:00

Fan appreciation day at the Ranger's game quickly turned into cry hysterically day for Madeline when the mob mentality took over at the the home plate gate to meet the players. There were about 1O Ranger's at the Home Plate gate and Madeline got to meet Michael Young, Pudge Rodriguez, and Eddie Guardado with no problem then all stink broke loose. People were pushing, security was yelling at you to go one way then another security guard told you to go back then the first security guard told you to go back, it was a never ending cycle. We just stood there and waited for a hole to open up then we took it only for it to close up again and then the security guards would yell at you again. When we thought we saw day light these 2 adults ~ yes I said adults, people who should know better ~ came barreling at Madeline and Me and pulled a redrover stunt and broke our hands free from eachother. Madeline was quickly out of my reach and sight and being pushed away from me with the crowd. In my panic I grabbed the two adults who pushed us apart by the shoulders and pushed them apart nearly knocking one over, to see Madeline with shock and horror on her face as she thought she had lost me. I grabbed her up in my arms, with all the other stuff I was carrying, and we just beat it out of there. I did not notice she was crying until we were well away from the mob. She sobbed for about 1O minutes. 3 Ranger's employees came over to see if she were alright and they got an earful from me at how it could be run better, nicely though. They were all very kind and thoughtful, one even gave Madeline a hat. She was very nervous about having to go by 5 people after that experience.

All in all we settled into our seats with nachos, hotdogs, & a cola slushy and all was right again, except the Rangers blew a 5 run lead in the 8th & 9th. It was very nice to spen the afternoon with Madeline, she loves baseball and it was fun to see her eyes light up.
Madeline with Eddie Guadardo, Relief Pitcher
Madeline with Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez, Catcher
or as Madeline likes to call him "the man who looks like Ethan"
I love watching the pitchers and how they put every ounce of effort they have into throwing the ball. Our seats were GREAT and I was able to get some good pictures of the pitchers tonight.
Brandan McCarthy, Ranger's starting pitcher for the game
Neftali Feliz, Relief Pitcher
Frankie Francisco, closer
CJ Wilson, Relief pitcher

Darran O'Dey, Relief Pitcher ~ side arm thrower...very weird
Elvis Andrus being caught stealing 3rd...he usually is safe
Rookie, Elvis Andrus trying to tag a stealing Ray...missed it by that much

2009-09-26T20:35:00.004-05:00

Madeline & Rebekah experienced their 1st camp out. They had a blast! Both went to bed way past their bed times and got up with the sun ~ YOI! We had a great time on a cool autumn evening. Although, by 1Oam it was pretty darn hot. The mosquito's were enormous and everywhere. Thank goodness for bug spray.

Always good to throw rocks with friends
Daddy spending quality time with Rebekah
nothing like riding in the back of a truck
Hanging around
chasing bubbles
climbing trees
where shes always wanted to be
un~doctored sunset
chocolateless smores by firelight
In the tent @ 1Opm getting ready for bed

2009-09-12T18:39:00.003-05:00

this is exactly why I do not let Kelly use the camera
I am teaching Mads how to roller skate while skating backwards myself ~ flattering Eh?

One Year Ago Today

2009-09-11T00:00:00.006-05:00

It was just 12 short months ago today ~ can you believe it ~ that Kelly, Madeline, and I were in a room with 15 other families anxiously waiting to get the first glimpses of our daughters. All of us had waited about 3 to 3 1/2 years for this day to come. At 2:30p we got the call to meet in the conference room at 3:30p. Kelly, Madeline, and I tried to wait the full hour before we left our room but were out the door within 5 minutes. It seemed the other families had the same idea we had. Everyone was smiling and laughing in an attempt to cover up how anxious we all really were. We all kept looking out the door and down the hall hoping to see the girls coming as we waited. 3:30 came and went and no girls. The groups laughs got louder and smiles were on every face while cameras and video cameras were checked and rechecked to make sure batteries were good and video tape was cued up. You could hear comments of anticipation and "where are they???"and "Oh, I wish they would get here." It was close to 4pm when we heard the commotion and the first crys and whimpers of our girls as they were coming down the hall. It was as if all at once everyone lost their voices, the room became almost dead quiet when the first caregiver entered the room with one of our daughters, I think we all stopped breathing for a moment. We all looked to see where are daughter was. When the parade of babies was over there were 14 caregivers holding 14 precious baby girls. {two families girls were coming from another SWI that was farther away and they had to wait about 2 hours longer. However, they joined us and celebrated with us at our Gotcha Moment.} We all just stood and stared in silence...Then you heard someone say, "There she is, I see her!" It was as if we were all 5 years old again and it was Christmas, we were standing in front of the Christmas tree with all the presents sitting there less that 5 feet away from us and we just stood there! Stood there with our mouths agape, waiting for permission, for Mom and Dad to get up and say it was OK for us to open presents. Then the permission came. One at a time, each family were called up to meet for the first time, face to face with their daughter. Tears were falling from both the girls and the families as they were gently placed into our arms. Sighs of relief were let out, hugs and kisses given, laughter and tears shed and families were made instantly. We were the last family united that afternoon. Rebekah was very quiet when they placed her in my arms, even her crying seemed silent, just big tears running down her cheeks. Other than tears, she seemed to have no emotion, she just sat there in our arms looking around taking it all in.
Camera's were snapping off pictures and video was being taken. The room was filled with joyous laughter and fearful crying. The toys all came out of diaper bags and grown adults suddenly had goofy looks on their faces as we tried to get our daughters to smile. The caregivers were all over in a corner now just watching the new families. There were smiles on their faces but also in their eyes you could see sadness. Slowly, the caregivers began to mingle in with the new families, broken English and Chinese were being spoken and it seemed the word of the day was 谢谢 "xiè xie" {thank you}. Slowly, the new families slipped away back to their rooms and the once buzzing conference room was silent and still. What a wonderful day that was. We did wait for almost 3 1/2 years for our daughter but in the end the wait seemed like nothing compared to the feeling we were feeling at that moment. Precious memories that will be cherished were made that day. Whenever we sit and think on this day tears will always come to my eyes as I remember the feeling that moment, that instant, Rebekah Xiu Hua Wei was placed into my arms ~ PERFECT FIT!

The Moment Families Were Created
Not only was our family united on that wonderful September afternoon there were 15 other families with us and 7 other families in another province in our travel group that were united. It was a blessing to share that moment with these families. Seeing the moment their precious daughters were placed into their arms and a family created was amazing. Seeing their smiles, their tears, hearing their laughter, their OOO's and AHHHH's, and experiencing their JOY will forever be etched in my mind and heart. Rebekah Wei did not just join our family but we also joined a much larger family that we like to call the 23rder's. We have kept in touch with many of these families over the past year and have enjoyed watching their daughters grow and hearing stories. We have been truly blessed and even though not all our moments over the past year were pleasent we have enjoyed each and every one of them, yes even the ones that push us to our limits. I want to wish all the 23rder's a very happy Gotcha Day! Hug and kiss your precious girls for us, we love and miss you all.

不要怕寶寶 ~ Bù Yào Pà Bǎo Bǎo

2009-09-08T21:05:00.009-05:00

O.K. ~ With Rebekah's 1st Gotcha Day Anniversary quickly approaching my mind has been drawn back to that day, that moment we were united with Madeline and Rebekah. When we were in the process of our first adoption I found several children's books about adopting from China, but none that looked at it from through the "child's eyes." So I sat down and thought what it might have been like. Since our first adoption, I have had this deluded idea of writing children's book. As I sat down, back in 2004, and reflected on the day we saw and held Madeline for the first time and what it may have been like for her, this is what came to my mind. Mind y'all, I am not a writer and I have the most difficult time putting the thoughts in my head in words.

不要怕寶寶 ~ Bù Yào Pà Bǎo Bǎo ~ Don't be Afraid Little One
I can almost remember that day. I was very little and the woman holding me was crying, I don’t know why but she held me close and kissed me softly. She wrapped me up tight in a white blanket.

Her tears fell on my face and she gently wiped them away with a kiss.

We went outside, it was cold. She held me close and whispered to me tenderly as we walked for a long time.

We stopped and she hugged me very tight as she whispered, 我愛你 “wǒ ài nǐ (I love you),” then she kissed my forehead and put me down on the ground in front of a big gate and tucked a red piece of paper inside my blanket. Then she walked away.

The woman’s crying faded. I was alone, I was afraid and began to cry, it was cold and getting dark.

A long time passed. I could hear a woman’s faint cry and wondered if it was the woman who left me there. Suddenly, I was picked up and a voice said whispered in my ear, 不要怕寶寶,讓我來照顧你 “bù yào pà bǎo bǎo, ràng wǒ lái zhào gū nǐ...(Don’t be afraid little one, I will take care of you).”

Her arms were warm and I stopped crying. She took me past the big gate into a room where it was warm.

She fed me, changed my clothes and laid me in a warm bed. There were several other babies in beds around me and some of them were crying.

I feel asleep and dreamt of the first woman. I wondered why she was crying and if she were alright, I wondered if I would ever see her again.

I stayed at the house behind the big gate for a long time. They called me Du Ye.

The people who cared for me would tell me of a mommy and daddy who would come for me one day and love me very much. They said they would come from a far off place to take me home.

Early one morning I was wakened abruptly, bathed, and put in new clothes. The women who cared for me told my mommy and daddy were here for me and I would have to leave. I did not want to go, I was scared. They put me in a bus and we drove for a very long time.

When we stopped, I was taken into a large room with many other babies waiting for their mommy’s and daddy’s, we were all crying.

I was sitting in a chair by myself crying when this man and woman began looking and pointing at me. Who were they? Why were they looking at me? Then the woman called my name. “Du Ye,” she said, I looked at her but did not know her.

They did not look like any of the people who had ever cared for me. They were crying but smiling at the same time.

It wasn’t long before I was picked up and given to that woman, I was told she was my mommy, and the man standing behind her must be my daddy. They were both crying. I was crying because I was afraid, but I wondered why they were they crying, they did not look afraid?

I did not want to go with them. Then the woman whispered in my ear, 我愛你,不要怕寶寶,讓我來照顧你 “wǒ ài nǐ,”bù yào pà, bǎo bǎo ràng wǒ lái zhào gū nǐ...(I love you, Don’t be afraid little one, I will take care of you).” She wiped my tears away with a gentle kiss.

My mommy held me for a long time then handed me to my daddy, he kissed me and held me tight. I felt safe.

2009-09-08T08:59:00.003-05:00

Madeline's first day of 1st did not start off as we had planned. I did not sleep and Kelly had to get up at 4:15a to catch a flight to Lubbock. When Kelly was leaving he slipped in to kiss Madeline goodbye, as he usually does on these early mornings, and she woke up. Thinking it was time to get up she ran into our room crying becasue daddy was leaving. When I finally got her settled back in bed it was almost 5 o'clock. YOI!!! 6:30 came quickly, and after getting to sleep around 5am I was really dragging my knuckles. Madeline woke up crying, fussy, and in a very disagreeable mood to say the least. It wasn't like she was really getting up any earlier than usual just that she had to get ready for something she had been eagerly waiting for. After about 20 minutes of crying fits she had worked it all out and was good to go. We got to school and she was a big little girl carrying her backpack and lunch.

2009-09-07T08:59:00.023-05:00

One year ago today we were leaving on a jet plane heading to China. Our adventure started with 34 hours of travel ~ NOT including the 22 hour layover in Minneapolis. Who know what adventures we were going to have as we left.

~ Our first adventure, Madeline got sick and threw up in an airplane blanket as we were leaving the plane in Tokyo and then proceeded to throw up and cry throughout the layover, security checkpoints, and the flight to Guangzhou.

~ Our second adventure, Madeline came down with a 105 degree temp the day after Gotcha Day that lasted 3 days. She put on a good face but was having a very tough time.

~ Our third adventure, went to several resturants where the waitstaff did not speak any English and our Chinese was less than adequate. Thank Goodness for menu's with pictures of the dishes. We enjoyed our dining outings though. How bout serving this fried food at the Texas State Fair...HUH?

~ Our fourth adventure, Rebekah's 1st flight ~ it went better than expected and Madeline did not get sick.

~ My fifth adventure, Taking a taxi to the Wal*Mart equivalent by myself and shopping with no translator. I made it there and back with flying colors. By the way, this is not the taxi I took but it was a taxi in Chongqing.

~ Our sixth adventure, Talking to a class full of 3rd or 4th graders outside the passport photo place while they practice their English on us. WHAT FUN!!! The students gravitated to Madeline but she was a bit scared and shy.

~ Our seventh adventure, Typhoon Hagupit. Get this we leave Texas right before Hurricaine Ike is to hit the Galvaston Coast and move up into North Texas only to sleep through a Typhoon in Guangzhou. GO FIGURE. It wasn't all that bad becasue Hagupit passed way south of us and we got a lot of rain and storm surge. Shamian Island where our hotel was got effected by flooding from the storm surge, ironically, it was the worst flooding there in several years. Water in some places was waist high and our hotel lobby was flooded. And the beautiful crystal blue swimming pool was river mucky green. This did not, however, stop the locals from going to work and opening their shops. In the picture of Kelly and Beks sitting by the window you can see the water right up to it but what you do not see is the approx. 1O foot walk way between the hotel and river.

~ Our eightth adventure, sitting on the plane to leave Guangzhou for 2 hours while we waited for a work crew to come and change the front nose tire on the plane. The tire was there but no one to change it. Kelly was ready to get off the plane and change it for them but alas they finally came and we were off 2 hours late hoping our connecting flight would be held.

~ Our ninth adventure, getting a migrane on the plane during the delay. It is not fun throwing up in a airplane bathroom while it is taxing to the runway, not easy.

~ Our tenth adventure, running through the Tokyo airport trying to make our connecting flight as we go through 3 more security checkpoints while airport workers point and shout Minneapolis so we do not go in the wrong direction. It was pretty frantic carring 1 child and dragging a 5 year old behind you. We found out that the airline will hold planes 2 hours past their departure time if it is one of their "baby flights" as they call them. It was great for us but not for the other passengers sitting on the plane for 2 hours. We were very lucky becasue our layover in Tokyo was about 2 hours 15 minutes so our flight was held but several families going to Detroit had a hour and a half layover and they missed their flight all together.

Well that is it for our adventures. I am sure there were more but they are not coming to mind right now.

Bek's 1st day of Mother's Day Out

2009-09-01T15:49:00.002-05:00

Today was the 1st day of "school" for Bek's, and not a whimper or whine was made. She walked in confident and happy like she knew what she was doing. When we picked her up she squeeled with glee and came running to the door. I was a bit worried about nap time and her sleeping in a room full of other children but they said she was the 1st one asleep. Bek's really loves being with other children her age. Maybe next year we will try more days a week.

2009-08-31T09:14:00.013-05:00

Well my birthday came and went just like I like it...without any fuss. Although, my sweet husband did not let my 42nd birthday go by without something special. He took me to the 49er ~ Dallas game in the new Cowboys Stadium. Jerry Jones spared no Arlington taxpayer or fan expense to bring "us" the new stadium. It was amazing though. We sat in the "Cowboy's Club" Section. This section has cushioned seats and its own private dining area, bathrooms, and bars and there were no lines to wait in ~ very nice! The new big jumbo screen is nice but is a bit of a distraction, you want to watch it instead of the game on the field. I proudly wore my new 49er shirt with no trepidation what so ever. All the cowboy fans we met, save one, were nice and jovial. There was one cowboys fan, who I later found out was drunk out of his mind, about 6 rows above us that would let out this loud obnoxious "WHEW," not when the cowboys made a good play like you think he would, but when they showed the cheerleaders on the big screen. Thankfully, they left mid 3rd quarter.

I do not put much importance on pre-season games but it is always good when the 49ers beat the Cowboy's. And in such good timing with 33 seconds left in the game. I was really impressed by the the rookies Nate Davis out of Ball State and Kory Sheets out of Purdue. Oh and to my earlier post in April about being so excited that the 49er's drafted Michael Crabtree well that excitement has faded away and I do not care if they sign the selfish primadonna now. He has worn out his welcome with this 49er fan now and forever. You know at least T.O. was a proven player before he became a selfish yahoo, Crabtree hasn't played 1 down yet and he wants the world. You know I hope he does sit out the whole season, does he really think another team will pick him up and for the money he wants with an attitude like that. All I can say is the 49ers have offered him more than the what a #10 pick is worth and it is still not good enough, well pooh on him. He seems to think that blaming his agent will explain his hold out, but don't you think if he TRULY believed his agent was the problem he would fire him and get a new one...Naw he's not doing that becasue HE is ultimately the problem. Anyhow, enough of me on my soap box.

Kelly and I had a great time at the game and the girls absolutely loved being spoiled by Ye Ye and Nai Nai. Thank you my Sweet Friend Patti for letting me borrow your telephoto lens it was GREAT. Just a note, I left out the picture of Wade Phillips picking his nose.

49er Nation
Kick Off
1st play ~ Romo to Witten
Witten getting the pass ~ It took 2 49ers to TRY and get him down, best they could do was push him out of bounds
Hill to Gore
Barber making a good run
Breathing down Romo's neck
This is what Romo saw before he threw the interception
After Romo's interception
49er incomplete pass
Its TOUCHDOWN 49er's
Its TOUCHDOWN 49er's
Its TOUCHDOWN 49er's
The catch right before the cowboy's defender jumped over the receiver with out downing him
The jump
Yards gained after the jump...big mistake
Good Dallas Tackle
My age
Final Score ~ YEAH!!!
My Coach!

2009-08-15T21:56:00.005-05:00

Got to go to Ranger's Ballpark for a P.L.A.Y. event today. Madeline got to go out on the field and learn how the players warm up for a game with pitcher Eddie Guardado, go into the batting cage with Ian Kinsler, and get a "don't use steroids" talk. She thought it was funny when they said

"...they give you the shot in the butt."

She laughed and laughed. The talk was good for the older youth but was wasted on the younger kiddos. Parents could not accompany the kids onto the field or down in the batting cages so I gave my camera to Ranger's employee to take pictures of her with one of her favorite players ~ Ian Kinsler ~ but she was too shy to get in the batting cage with him. Kinsler spent 3 minutes with each child showing them how to bat ~ TOO COOL. So the Rangers employee got a picture of Madeline with Kinsler behind her. That was the closest she was going to get without mommy around. She told me later that if I were there she would have done it. Her one main observtion about the batting cage area was that, "it smelt funny." You gotta love kids.

When the event was almost over Eddie Guardado came over to where I was and struck up a conversation with me. His 2 boys there and enjoying just having the run of the facilities. Guardado appologized for loosing the game last night ~ he did not loose the game, it was Frankie Francisco in the 9th that did, just for the record. He asked me who my daughter was and I told him and he told me in his station she was very enthusiastic. I asked if he would take a picture with her and he told me he would. BUT she was not over near us yet and a crowd of children came over and started getting autographs. Knowing the event was pressed for time I told Guardado thank you for wanting to take a picture with her and we would try it later but he said, "NO, stay right there, I don't care how long it takes I will get that picture with you."

I am very thankful that the Ranger's ball club is filled with players who take the time with the fans. This is not the only time a player has been nice to my daughter and I doubt the last. Madeline is turning into quite the baseball fan. She is almost able to identify all the Ranger's players by their picture and knows the line up. Although this latest change up putting Hamilton batting 7th then 5th has thrown her off. She still want to meet Josh Hamitlon more than anything. Her goal is to become a Ranger's Ball Girl, they sit on the field and get foul balls and warm up the outfielders between inning. Makes a momma proud her daughter likes sports and not cheerleading.

2009-08-13T20:51:00.002-05:00

My birthday present arrived early this year, although I cannot use my present until 4 days after my birthday. We're going to the game, THE 49ER GAME! Yeah, it's at the new Cowboys stadium and it's against the Cowboys BUT it is the 49er's. I have always told Kelly I do not want any big todo for my birthdays, not becasue I'm getting older but becasue it's really not that big of a deal for me. EXCEPT for my birthday 42nd. 42 is my favorite number ~ can anyone guess why? ~ ANYHOW, Kelly thought it would be fun to take me to the 49er/Cowboy's preseason game on the August 29th {It did not hurt that I put that thought into his head.} I have had to promise him that I would not pick a fight with a Dallas fan or be obnoxious at the game which will be difficult task for me, as some of you may know. BUT WEARE GOING TO THE GAME!

2009-08-04T22:50:00.000-05:00

Mommy pushing nap time at the zoo

Family Fun

2009-07-25T15:37:00.008-05:00

**WARNING ~ LOADS OF PICTURES COMING**

Kelly's sister and her family are here from Florida enjoying the HOT Texas weather. We have had loads of fun with Melissa, Scott and their boys Reese and Teagan. Ranger's game, touring the new Cowboys stadium, trian rides, and of course swimming. It is always great to see the kiddos get together after 6 months apart ~ it is like no time has passed since they have seen each other. They jump right in and play ~ play ~ play! Rebekah has taken to her cousin Reese. She wants to be a big kid so bad. Oddly enough there have been no major meltdowns as to whose toy it is or who had it first. I am enjoying the house being full of love, laughter, joy, and buisiness. I will miss it when they leave.

new cowboys stadium
inside cowboys proshop
Cowboys Field
the fam on the upper level
view of The Ballpark
cowboys star where the cowboys enter field
field level suite
the best part of the new cowboys stadium tour
eagerly waiting to get into the Ranger's Ballpark
even bees want to go to the game
gettng Saltalamachia's autograph (on a side note Saltalamachia came down with swine flu symptoms the day after we got his autograph
mads learning to eat sunflower seeds
the ballpark
Teagarden warming up
Nippert warming up ~ winning pitcher in the sweep of the RedSox
Rangers bullpen redbull salute
mads showing off her CJ Wilson autograph
cotton candy ~ sugar rush
riding the tarantula train and waving to the crowd
tracks
swimming
cannon ball
t-minus 2 seconds to launch
kicking in the water

For the First Time

2009-07-07T04:18:00.006-05:00

One year ago today at 1:51pm we heard your name for the first time. One year ago today at 4:21pm we saw your face for the first time. From that moment our lives have changed, we have been so blessed.

THEN

Now

Happy Independance Day

2009-07-01T15:52:00.002-05:00

We had a wonderful Independence Day Celebration with family, food, swimming, and a lot of fireworks. The girls did not get to sleep until after 10pm (and for Rebekah that was REALLY pushing it) but it was worth it for her to celebrate her first Independence Day. She was not scared at all at the loud booms...just a big smile. On a side note, fireworks sold to the public have become more sophisticated than when I was a kid.

Rebekah having a Ball.

RICOLA

I smell HotDogs!

JOY!!!

Working on a Holiday

The Commute

Chilling in the pool

WEEEEEEE!

A balancing act

Sue Sue Goofing off

Madeline, Cousin Joanne, Rebekah and Elizabeth

WOW!!! (expression when a string of lady fingers were lit)

I'm Tired and I WANT MOMMY!!!!!!

Pop Pop and Nathan

Sparkler fun (although sparklers when I was younger were funner)

OOOOOOOOO!

AAHHHHHHHHHH!

OOOOHHHHHHHH!

2009-06-30T19:47:00.005-05:00

As I have come to know, normal after the death of my mother was not what it was, it is a different normal if there is such a thing. With her death my life changed and it will never be as it was, how can it be. After I experienced the unmeasurable pain of my mother's death the best that I have been able to do is to learn to live without her and it has not been easy. The pain of her loss has weakened over the past 5 years but not by much. Daily thoughts of her come to mind and memories . (good and not so good) come flooding back and at that instant joy and sadness fill my heart ~ a smile creases my lips as tears fall from my eyes. The only thing I have been able to cling to is the promise and peace God gave me upon my pleading. My prayers for my mother's physical healing were not answered but God did give me a peace that I cannot explain that has carried me through until now, through the death of my brother 2 years ago this July 16th and will carry me in the future

2009-06-24T07:25:00.001-05:00

2009-06-13T15:02:00.003-05:00

Madeline fell asleep with her swim goggles
sweet swimming dreams!

a lesson in finances

2009-06-07T19:11:00.002-05:00

We are beginning to teach Madeline about money, saving, and budgeting. She is also learning the difference between a chore and a responsibility. Keeping her room clean, putting her close away, schoolwork, and feeding her rabbit are responsibilities and she does not earn an allowance for that. Cleaning up the doggie poopy once a week, emptying the silverware from the dishwasher, feeding the dogs, & clearing the dinner table are chores and for that she earns an allowance each week. She has to put 20% towards savings and 10% towards tithing and the rest she may spend on anything she wants. Additionally, if I or Kelly have to do any of her chores during the week then she has to pay us the specified amount given to that particular chore. NOW ONTO THE LESSON, Last week Madeline did not put away her clean clothes which sat in the basket for 4 days. Finally, after giving her enough time, in my mind, I began to put her clothes away and start adding by 5¢ per clothing item. Madeline finally caught on at about 30¢ and began to quickly put away her clothes. When all was said and done I had put away 17 clothing items. Tonight when she it was time to pay her her allowance she had to pay me 85¢ which she was not happy about. She cried and pleaded that she did not have to pay me but in the gave in and cried for about ten minutes after I put the money in my jar.

5th GOTCHA DAY ANNIVERSARY

2009-06-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

We celebrated our 5th Gotcha Day with Madeline. I cannot believe it has already been 5 years BUT what an AMAZING 5 years it has been. We have been so blessed to have been chosen to be Madeline's mommy and daddy.

OUR FIRST GLIMPSE AS WE WALKED INTO CIVIL AFFAIRS
HOLDING MADELINE FOR THE FIRST TIME
HOLDING MADELINE FOR THE FIRST TIME
MADELINE WALKING FOR THE FIRST TIME AN HOUR AND A HALF AFTER WE GOT HER, SHE NEVER LOOKED BACK
A FAMILY

a conversation between 6-year-olds

2009-06-02T12:31:00.006-05:00

Kelly overheard a conversation between Madeline and Nathan (our Nephew) that goes as follows:

Nathan "I want to be a bull fighter."
Madeline "You can't, your not suppose to hurt God's creatures."
Nathan "I want to be a bull fighter!"
Madeline "Your not suppose to hurt God's creatures!"
Nathan "You have to kill them to get meat to eat."
Madeline "Why can's we just plant food to eat?"

Lets Go Ranger's

2009-05-31T21:03:00.005-05:00

Kelly has a wonderful friend who just celebrated his company's 5th year anniversary.

CONGRATULATIONS to Shannon and Anna Nave and Nave Engineering!!!
As a part of that celebration he and his wife purchased a suite at the Texas Ranger's game today and he invited us to join them. We were honored that they thought of us on this very special day for them. It was an absolute perfect day, except the Ranger's lost, but I am not going to let that bring me down. They came back to tie the game in the bottom of the 8th inning, only to give up a run in the top of the 9th to the A's. They were unable to pull out that Ranger Magic, as they have done so often this season, to win the game.

It was very HOT today but that did not stop Madeline from cheering on her favorite players Kinsler, Young, and Blalock. She was sad that Josh Hamilton was not in the line up. It was Madeline's 4th game and she is becoming a big fan. After the game Madeline got to run the bases and I was very proud of her as she rounded third with a big smile on her face and jumped on home plate as she has seen the Ranger's do after a walk off home run. At our last game she was given a ball hit during batting practice and we have tried for the last 2 games to get it autographed with no luck. She and I are planning on having a girls day at the Ballpark where we get there early and try yet again to get it autographed.

Rebekah went to her 1st game and seemed to enjoy running around and eating anything she wanted, although she did not pay too much attention to the game. She did cheer loudly and clap whenever we did, she seemed to love just to make noise.

Kelly and Rebekah waiting for Madeline and me to finish with getting pictures ~ They are the smart ones sitting in the shade while Madeline and I stand in the 97 degree heat
One very HOT Rebekah
Marlin Byrd watching the Giambi Homerun
Madeline jumping on 2nd base
Rounding 3rd and heading HOME

2009-05-29T22:42:00.002-05:00

Madeline learned to ride her 2 wheeler a few weeks ago. She had her first major spill tonight coming down a moderately sloped driveway and missed the turn. She has a scraped knee and elbow and an ugly jammed thumb ~ swollen, black and blue ~ she can still bend it so thankfully it is not broken. Proud of her, she got right back on it right after the bandaids went on.

I've been wanting to get this up but lost my firewire in the move and kept buying the wrong one to replace it. Needless to say, I have how bought the correct firewire and I am back in the buisness of putting video clips of my kids doing only things I find interesting on the web. Anyway, whoever watches this I hope you enjoy it.

conquering fear

2009-05-26T21:38:00.004-05:00

It is spring time in North Texas and with spring comes severe weather and with severe weather I run and hide. I grew up in Northern California and experienced only 5 severe thunderstorms, THEN I moved to North Texas. I have been living here for 12 years now and have NEVER got use to these storms. However, tonight (though the storm had passed and was well into Arlington) I was able to watch the "beauty" of lightening from a distance. This is not to say that I have conquered my fear of severe thunderstorms ~ there still is that whole tornado aspect to them ~ but it is a step in the right direction.

Crabtree goes to the 49er's in the 10th pick overall!

2009-04-25T16:30:00.002-05:00

WOOOHOOO! The 49er's finally are making smart draft pick choices. Very Excited!!!

OUR BIG 6 YEAR OLD

2009-04-23T19:30:00.005-05:00

Madeline had her 6th birthday this week. She has been counting down the days since October last year. We had a wonderful day that started at 5:45am when Madeline came into our room with a bound and announced loudly "It's my birthday ~ I'm 6 today!" Thing was she was so excited and wanting to announce JOY of her BIG DAY that she missed an obvious clue of one of her presents, (an adjustible art easel with a dry erase board on one side and chalk board on the other). We put the easel in the upstairs playroom and strung a string from the easel down the stairs to her room with bright red arrows pointing the way she should go. So our plan to suprise her was foiled. She will get to celebrate her birthday 2 more times before all is said and done.

Rebekah has really grown over the past month. She is talking up a storm and picking up words right and left. She can say drink (gink), water (waa), thank you (teeto), duck (guk), and a few more. She is walking like a olympic speed walking champion as well. From the moment she gets up she is walking, she doesn't stop. She is becomming more outgoing and strongheaded as well. She knows what she wants and makes it known. She has also trying to perfect the art of the fake cry. Needless to say she has not mastered it yet, but it is cute to watch her try to. I am amazed at just how many words she understands and for the most part obeys.

2009-04-12T21:21:00.002-05:00

While taking a bath tonight, Rebekah found herself a fancy new toy. She spent half of her bath admiring herself in the tub overflow valve. I couldn't pass up the kodak moment.

2009-04-06T19:26:00.005-05:00

We have had some very beautiful weather here lately allowing us to get some much needed yard work done. Although, we woke up this morning to tempatures in the mid 30's and tonight we will have a freeze (hopefully our last). Many people have already begun planting their spring gardens only to hope this recent freeze does not kill everything they planted over the past beautiful weekend. Luckily we did not plant anything, just maintainace around the house. Kelly bought a power washer to clean our weathered fences and Madeline was absoulutly facinated. As you can see, Kelly had some fun with it for Madeline's benefit. But the real treat was when he let her power wash the fence, she had a BLAST, although she was not that efficient. Madeline also helped out by holding the ladder for daddy so he, "wouldn't fall on his head."

2009-04-04T21:26:00.008-05:00

I am not real sure why they call them Easter Egg Hunts anymore because they just throw the eggs out in the wide open and there is not hunting involved anymore. They should call them "Collect the Most Easter Eggs that are Laying Out in the Open". Regardless, we had a wonderful day of 2 Easter Egg Hunts and many miles between them. Rebekah joined in the hunt like she was a pro, no hesitation. Although, she might have thought it was time to clean up, with all those eggs laying around. Madeline is slowly overcoming her fear of Easter Bunny's and other people dressed up like fictional characters. She went right up to the Easter Bunny sat in her lap while giving her a hug. Lets hope the days of her screaming and cowering on my lap are over.
Madeline saw the pony rides and that was all she wrote. The rest of the day it was "Mommy, can we go and ride the horses again."
Rebekah and Sue Sue ā yí (Chinese for aunt)
"You want me to do WHAT?" Rebekah still to this day does not like grass, even if she has sock and shoes on. You put her down in grass and she crys and crys.
Picking up eggs like a pro
Whats in my basket.
Madeline helping Rebekah open eggs. I love the expression of surprise on Madeline's face
Ready, Set, Go!!!
Madeline, Nathan, and Rebekah enjoying their spoils
Cousin Nathan "the Blue Tiger".
Rebekah's up close and personal encounter with a lamb.

Digging in the Dirt

2009-03-25T08:32:00.004-05:00

We had a wonderful end to spring break at Ye Ye and Nai Nai's house. The weather was beautiful and we were able to get out in the yard and play in the dirt. Ye Ye has collected a lot of rocks from all over and had them scattered in his yard. He let Madeline dig them up, which is one of Madeline's favorite things to do. She was right in her element. She dug up about 25 to 30 rocks and some fossils as well and brought them home. We are going to make a little rock garden in the back corner under the bird feeder so Madeline can enjoy and dig up her rocks whenever she pleases. Amazingly enough, she did not get her white shirt dirty.

REBEKAH IS WALKING...sorta

2009-03-24T22:11:00.006-05:00

"Put one foot in front of the other, and soon you'll be walking on the floor." I do not know the title of that verse in song but it was running through my head over the weekend as Rebekah was trying very hard to walk. All I know is it was in the beloved Christmas special, Santa Clause is Coming to Town. Oh sorry for the loud laugh at the end, I did not realize the micophone was that sensitive on Madeline's camera.

2009-03-21T09:53:00.011-05:00

I have not had the motivation to update our blog in the past few weeks even though there is a lot to update y'all on. I guess the lack of motivation was because of spring break for Madeline and Rebekah and they want my attention exclusively. I have also been distracted by trying to get our new house in order and get everything out of boxes.
(moving in to the new house)
Our biggest news is REBEKAH IS WALKING!!! Finally, she is 3 days shy of 16 months and I was beginning to think she was going to be content with us carrying her. She has been trying for a couple weeks but was unwilling to let go of fingers or furniture. Just last week she would take maybe 2 steps and then it was back down on her knees and crawling. Then just yesterday she began to be adventurous and she was off. She is definitely excited to find her new freedom but prefers crawling. I was going to put a video up but did not bring the right usb cord for the camera so you will just have to wait.

We love our new home. It is definitely bigger and there are still 2 1/2 rooms that need to be furnished if you do not count boxes. It took me a while to put the first hole in the wall to hang a picture and now that we have carpet we do not wear our shoes in the house (lets see how long that lasts). Kelly mounted or new TV (courtesy of the home builder) on the wall and it has not fallen off yet so I think we are good to go. Madeline has claimed the upstairs room as her official playroom and thinks it is the best thing since sliced bread. I love it too becasue all her toys are up there and not in the living room. Our new neighborhood has a lot of young children in it and Madeline has already made new friends. She loves to yell over the fence to her new friend Grayson to come out and play. The weather cooperated with our move and a cold front (cold for Texas) blew through 4 days after we moved and we were able to have our 1st fire in our fireplace. Madeline was very excited and wanted to roast marshmallows.
Our first fire in the new home and our backyard
our empty living room and partial master bath
We celebrated our sixth month Gotcha Day anniversary with Rebekah on March 11th and Boy has she changed! Six months ago when we first held her she was very quiet with very little emotion. She was either quiet or screaming. She would not take her bottle and was a picky eater. She was not clingy and liked to be left alone in her crib. She has definately come out of her shell, so to speak. She is now very animated and vocal, crawls all over the place, is beginning to walk, and eats like there is no tomorrow. Really the only thing that has not changed about her is her crib behavior, the crib is a "safe haven" and no REAL crying is done there. If she is fussy or crying you can put her in there and she stops crying almost immediately. She still goes down for nap and bedtime very easily.
THEN NOW ~ check out the chubby chubby cheeks
Madeline went ice skating for the first time a few weeks ago and proved to be quick study at it. By the end of the 2 hours she had let go of the railing and set off all over the rink. NO, I did not go ice skating because of my weak chicken ankles.Some friends went with us so I was the official picture taker.
I cannot skate with my tonge in my mouth

Well that is all for now. We hope all y'all are doing good. We love you.

New Home & Random Pictures

2009-02-28T19:03:00.006-06:00

WE ARE MOVING!!! YEAH!!! We are in the process of buying a new home. We are scheduled to close on this coming Thursday and the movers are scheduled to arrive bright and early Saturday morning. We are very excited and are praying for our current home to sell. We have had 2 showings so far even though our for sale sign (along with about 5 other signs) was stolen.

A while back we had a "snow day" and Madeline wanted to bake something. She enjoyed getting flour everywhere and Rebekah was eager to help but a little to small.

2009-02-19T10:16:00.005-06:00

We have lived at our home for over 6 years now and I have always found it difficult to grow plants and flowers. Our soil here is mostly clay which is not good for growing plants or for our foundation for that matter. But I am always suprised at the volunteer plants that seem to pop up from time to time. Just the other day I noticed a plant pushing through one of the most dry and rocky spots in our yard, and now it has bloomed into beautiful purple flowers. I know it is some kind of bulb but was unaware that a bulb could remain dormant in the ground for 6+ years and then bloom so beautifully. I do not know what kind of flower it is but will enjoy it.

2009-01-28T09:14:00.007-06:00

This is Madeline's second day of cancelled school for an ice storm in North Texas. The bulk of the sleet and freezing rain fell throughout the evening and night and when all was said and done there was about a quater of an inch of sleet on the ground. Now I know y'all up north are laughing your socks off saying they closed schools down for that? YEP!!! This storm was not as bad as our last one and it is already beginning to melt off. We are hoping this freeze after such unseasonably warm weather does not effect trees blossoming considering most trees in our area looked about ready to bloom.

2009-01-27T09:00:00.000-06:00

Last week Kelly came home from work Thursday morning with some type of stomach bug and slept all day, night, and all Friday morning, Madeline has a wicked cough, and Rebekah's "nose is running like a sieve." I had to look that one up because I have always heard that phrase used but never really know what it meant, but first I had to learn how to spell sieve. Anyhow, I am the only one not sick and I am thankful for that. So between wiping noses and a screaming baby because her poor little nose is raw, I found time to go to my weekly Friday lunch with the girls and had a wonderful time in the almost 80 degree weather at the park.

Real early this morning (1:30a) Rebekah woke up with a fever of 103.4 and very fussy. After Motrin and about 2 hours of sweet snuggling in our comfy recliner she finally went back to sleep and slept the rest of the night. Right now she is just fine, having a ball playing Lego's with Madeline and watching Elmo's World (ARRGGG).

Today, we are under a winter storm warning, our high temp was reached at 6am (32) and we will be steadily falling through the day into the 20's. We are waiting for the rain, or should I say ice, to start falling. No ice yet but they have already cancelled Madeline's school. It is a good day to stay inside and watch movies and drink Starbucks.

Rebekah's few words are becoming more clear and understandable. "More" sounds like "mooow" and "please" is "peeesss". We had some tough love sessions with her for her to sign please. She knows how to do it but absolutely refused to do so when asked. So there was a lot of crying and screaming when she did not get what she wanted. Rebekah now is all too happy to sign it for you along with saying it in her sweet voice. She has even picked up on signing thank you just by watching me sign it each time I said it to her. She is also trying to say many other words as well. Rebekah will say "woof" when you ask her what a dogs says. Yesterday while watching tv she saw some horses and would "woof" and "woof" each time she saw them...very cute. She recognizes herself in pictures and when asked "whos that" she will points to herself. Rebekah is not walking yet STILL ~ ARGGGG! She is getting more sure footed by the day and we are just waiting for the day when she takes that "leap" of faith and lets go. She is also getting the hang of blowing her nose, which she thinks is a game and there is less crying.

Madeline has discovered watching movies on netflix online. She is doing great in school, though having concentration issues with math.

All in all ~ all is well with us, take it easy everyone.

2009-01-20T12:07:00.006-06:00

Today was Rebekah's 1st day of "school." I would like to say she was excited but I guess unsuspecting is a more fitting word. When I dropped her off she went right to the teacher without even a whimper and before I knew it she was on the floor playing very happily. I kinda figured she would not be real clingy or emotional, that was my job and I did it very well. There is absolutely an empty feeling in our house today. I have already gone to check on her in her room only to realize she is not here. I miss her.

2009-01-07T09:51:00.024-06:00

It has been a while since my last post but in my defense I have been very busy doing nothing. I have tried my hardest to keep up on the laundry and cleaning the house but cannot seem to get it done. No matter what I do there is always clutter or dirty clothes. We have had yo yo type weather here being in the 60's or 70's one day and in the 30's the next. Our trees are very confused and close to blooming, just in time for another big cold front likely to make it to North Texas. Some of my plants are already budding and my rosemary bushes are full of beautiful blue flowers. I enjoy the warmer weather but wish the weather would make up it's mind to be either cold or warm.

We had a beautiful day last Friday and took advantage of it by going to the zoo with some good friends. It is still very hard to believe people are walking round in shorts and t-shirts in the January, although we were not. It was a great day to be at the zoo because all the animals we saw were very active and fun to watch, all except the hippos.

Rebekah can get around the house very well. She crawls at warp speed and when she comes to a something she can pull up on she does and walks her way down the couch, chair, or table then back in the crawl position and she is off again. She is close to walking but not willing to let go and have a go at it alone. She has finally figured out, with the help of Madeline, how to use her adjustable cruiser/walker toy. She is becoming harder to keep track of. Rebekah is more vocal but doesn't say much, although she thinks she says a lot. She is starting to put words together but they are few and only on request, she does not spontaneously say words. Rebekah is more opinionated as well and becoming a bit more demanding. She still is not a finicky eater but is going through the stage of not eating at times and when she does not want to eat you cannot make her. At her 1 year check up the doctor said to put her on whole milk exclusively and no more bottles. The switch has not been difficult. I am really happy that we do not have to formula anymore - YEAH! We will be putting Rebekah in a 2 day a week mother's day out program.

Madeline is still doing very well in Kindergarten and loves it very much. She is a wonderful big sister and loves to entertain Rebekah. We are going to re-enroll her in gymnastics as she is kartwheeling and summersaulting all over the house.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T16:59:00.009-06:00

With the preparation leading up to Christmas, I found myself at time too lazy to want to do anything. It wasn't that I was extremely busy, just lazy I guess. I was finally able to send our Christmas greetings out on Christmas Eve, but that was because my computer crashed and our picture card and letter was lost in the abyss inside. We had a wonderful Christmas and we hope all y'all did as well. We celebrated with my dad, sister, and her son on Christmas eve by going to their church's candle lit service and Rebekah made her presence known with loud resounding crying in the foyer which permiated into the sanctuary so the whole congregation was able to enjoy. She was tired and does not go to sleep while being held. After that we headed back to their house to open presents. Both Madeline and her cousin Nathan had a BLAST! After that we drove to Kelly's folks to celebrate our 2nd Christmas. We arrived at midnight and Madeline and her 2 other cousins, Reese and Teagan, were up bright and early at 6:30am. Presents were everywhere!! Madeline had asked Santa for a orange scooter, so when she woke up and looked around at the living room (which we slept in) she asked, "did Santa come?" I told her "yes, of course he came." She put her head down slowly on the pillow and said, "I'm disappointed...Santa did not bring me a scooter." Well I told her that he saw we were sleeping in here and probably did not want to wake us up so he left it in another room, so Madeline was satisfied with that and began searching the house. She found her Barbie scooter in the laundry room. A few minutes later wrapping paper was flying everywhere. Madeline and I are going to have a hard time going through all her old toys and deciding which ones to donate to pregnancy life line. (a organization who assist pregnany women and teens who need help). I am not looking forward to that.

We do hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are blessed this coming year.
one chubby rebekah Daddy & Rebekah
Madleline is still a bit standoffish about Santa, but at least she will sit near him and not run away and cry.

Madeline, Rebekah, and cousin Nathan at the candlelight service.
A very tired Rebekah, who in about 30 minutes from now will begin to scream loudly for all the congregation to enjoy.
Wake up Daddy (uncle Kelly)! LETS OPEN PRESENTS!!
Look, I can play the piano!
What a stash of presents I have.
"Baby Alive" Rebekah.
Madeline learning the fine art of riding a scooter.
This is the photo I will use if I ever intend to blackmail Kelly.
Madeline, Rebekah and the cousins. This was a fun picture to take.
FEET

Its COLD in Fort Worth

2008-12-16T18:27:00.002-06:00

We have had our official 2 days of winter in TX. Yesterday and today did not get above 32 degrees and this morning there was a dusting of snow and ice in Dallas so of course several school district were closed or delayed. Luckily Fort Worth did not get any winter precipitation so it was business as usual YEAH!!

2008-12-16T17:03:00.003-06:00

Rebekah has changed so much over these past 3 months she has been with us. She is more active each day as well as verbal. She is also becoming more assertive. Just yesterday she began to point at the things she wants and will grunt and kick her legs. This is great because now we know what she wants but also can get frustrating with all the whining if she doesn't get it. We have taught her sign language for "more" and "cup" which has helped. Today at lunch I was eating some chips with guacamole and Rebekah decided that she wanted what I was eating and kept pointing to the chips and making it known she wanted them. I have started a "this then that" ploy where she eats what she is suppose to eat (the this) THEN she gets the thing she wants (the that). It seems to be working also. She has learned to feed herself crackers and finger foods but I still have not ventured out to let her try to feed herself with a spoon. Rebekah loves playing "where's Rebekah" and will cover up her face with her hands and squeal when she quickly takes them away. She blows sweet kisses.

Rebekah is not walking yet but getting the hang of pulling up on furniture, moving along the furniture, and taking steps while we hold her fingers (which is a big improvement because she would typically just keep her feet in one spot while we moved forward and soon she would be almost laying on the ground). She crawls all over the place. She sometimes convienently forgets how to roll over and will lay on her back and scream.

Bed and nap times are still wonderful times. Rebekah does not fuss at all when I lay her down in her crib. Even when she wakes up she will either just lay their quietly or make happy sounds. We know we are blessed with this. I am sure she leaned this in the orphanage. She also still LOVES to nap in the morning and afternoon for about 2 hours each time. This was very different for me because Madeline did NOT nap but about 30 to 45 minutes a day.

Rebekah loves being with her Jei Jei (big sister). She is now in Madeline's room with her playing with the rabbit which is allowing me to type this. Madeline is also having the time of her life with Rebekah. She has mentioned to me several times that she wishes Rebekah would grow faster so she can play with her more. Madeline will still sleep in Rebekah's room on weekends "just in case she wakes up scared."

We are looking forward to our first Christmas as a family of four.