Life with Jailyn Hope

We're moving!

2008-09-05T13:24:00.004-06:00

We are combining our blogging to one family blog!
Come visit us at Heads Up Seven Up!

Her eyes still sparkle!

2008-08-28T14:32:00.002-06:00

Today Jailyn went to her first eye Dr. appointment and look what she came home with!
(Actually they are on order, but should be in next week!)

What a whirl wind week!

2008-08-26T22:10:00.003-06:00

We have had such a crazy, busy last week! Conner tested for his conditional Black Belt! He did a great job at his belt test! He was the highest belt and had to do Pattern 6 and his specialized Pattern 7 all by himself in front of everyone! He did a great job!!! We are so proud of him! A few more months and he will be a full Black belt!

Saturday we finally were able to celebrate Kenzie's 12 birthday! She had 8 girlfriends over. We played a lot of obstacle course games... The theme was "I survived a Japanese Game Show". If you watched this TV show last season you will understand. Hai Majide!!!
We also spent 3 hours at the neighborhood pool! It was a fun day!!! Kenzie really has some nice friends! Happy Birthday girl!! We love you!!

Sunday we were honored to be "Family of the Week"!!!
We were awarded tickets to the local Water Park, Hawaiian Falls! We also had a Cabana for the day, and a Cabana boy! He was sooooo cute!!! We felt so pampered!! We had a great time!
After the day at the water park, Kenzie had a soccer game. They won!!! It was a great game!!

Monday - First day of school for all of the big kids!! And two of them are going to new schools. Thankfully we were organized and had our backpacks ready to go!
We have a few traditions for the first day of school - one being we measure the kids to see how much they grew from the last year - Brady grew 2 inches and has hit the 6 foot mark!
Kenzie - grew 2 3/4 inches!!! Way to go girl!!!!
Conner - grew 2 1/4 inches!!!
Jailyn - grew 3 inches!!! Wow!!! She is still only 24lbs.

They all had a great first day of school! Jailyn missed them so much!!! All morning she was asking for them!!!

Tuesday - Jailyn had her first evaluation for Pre-school. Our school district offers two different pre-school programs for Special Needs kids. She had so much fun talking with the therapists who were evaluating her, and of course she had them wrapped around her little finger! She did a great job. We will find out next week which pre-school she will be in. Jailyn is excited to go to school. This is making me so sad, but I know it is what she needs to succeed. Plus, when Jorja gets home this will give Jorja and I some alone time.

When will Jorja get home? Good question!!! We are hoping to receive our LOA (Letter of Acceptance) from China in about 3 weeks. When we sign this and send it back to China we will be waiting to get our Travel Approval! We are still hoping to travel before Thanksgiving! Can't wait to get our little girl home!!!

~ Jodi Sue :)

I have a High Schooler!!

2008-08-19T09:04:00.003-06:00

We have officially entered into the High School years!! Brady registered yesterday. Got his class schedule, his first High School ID. How exciting!
He is very excited but nervous about doing his best! I love that!
He will be trying out for soccer when school begins! Oh, I hope he makes the team!!!

Cute pictures of my Jailyn!!!

2008-08-08T22:09:00.003-06:00

Future Olympiad!!!

2008-08-08T22:06:00.002-06:00

Maybe some day!

I'm soooo happy!!!

2008-08-08T21:39:00.004-06:00

I love the Olympics!!!! I will be glued to the TV for the next 16 days!!!! I love to hear all the stories of all the athletes! I love to hear how they fought to make their dream come true!! These athletes have such endurance, not just physically, but mentally! I admire every one of them.
It is also so fun to see China hosting the Olympics! 1 1/2 years ago when we visited Beijing we saw the "bird's nest" being built - it was amazing! But to see it tonight filled with over 90,000 people -WOW!!!

I will enjoy the Olympics this year but I will be excited when they are over and the officials in Beijing go back to work! Hopefully, they will work fast to get us our paperwork and give us the okay to go get our little girl!!!

Jay, do you have your collectable Coke cans? :)

This photo is from the Olympic training center in Colorado Springs! I was so excited to finally get there!

FC Dallas!!

2008-08-05T08:14:00.005-06:00

What a fun evening! Our soccer club, Manchester Soccer Club, enjoyed their signing party at the FC Dallas game vs. LA Galaxy!
Yes, Beckham was there in all of his glory! and FC Dallas shut him an the rest of the Galaxy's up!!! 4-0 Go FC Dallas!

Kenzie and Conner (and other players from our club) walked both teams onto the field! It was really cool!

Imaginary Friend or Sister-to-be?

2008-08-05T08:06:00.002-06:00

Jailyn is getting very excited for Jorja to come home. We think she has finally realized that Jorja is not just a picture of a beautiful face! Jailyn loves to go "big girl bed" shopping for beds for her and Jorja. Jailyn hates to sleep alone - every night she says ,"Jorja will sleep in my room." She has also begun giving people assigned seats in the car. "Jorja will sit by me!" Of course, this brings up the whole topic with the other three kids - how are we all going to fit in our mini-van? We'll fit - everyone may not sit exactly where they want to - but we will fit! :) We are hoping for gas prices to go down as we find our selves taking two cars to one location! (We can dream!)

BBC is going great!

2008-07-30T06:39:00.003-06:00

We are having so much fun this week! The kids are all getting along great , having a great time playing games, working hard on their crafts and listening intently to the Bible Stories! This is a great bunch of kids!
Here a few photos of what our week has looked like so far! Fun! Fun! Fun!
And yes, by 2pm I am taking a little cat-nap daily - to re-energize for the next day!

Backyard Bible Club!

2008-07-28T06:58:00.002-06:00

This is the week! In a few hours my backyard will be full of kids from 2 years old - 13 years old! YEAH!!!! (actually, the little kids get to stay in side - a way from the heat! It's supposed to be 102 degrees today! :)

If you live in or near McKinney and want to join us this week - we would love to have you! Just email me - soccermom@tx.rr.com

If you aren't able to come please remember us in your prayers! Please pray for safety and fun for all! And especially that God's word is heard by the kids and adults who attend.

Have a great week!
I will post photos soon!

Potty Trained!

2008-07-22T12:50:00.003-06:00

Yea! Jailyn is potty trained! I figure almost a week with out an accident is officially potty trained! She was pretty easy! She still surprises us when she calls out from the bathroom! "Mommy I went tinkle!" What a good girl!
She loves her new underwear and loves to pick which pair she will wear for the day! :) Some days she can't decide on which pair so she tries them all on!
We are so proud of our silly girl!!!

Christmas in July

2008-07-18T09:28:00.003-06:00

I need your help! We are already thinking of Christmas ideas! With child number 5 coming home this fall we are really trying to stick to a budget (ha!ha!) We would like to do some homemade gifts, but I need ideas! These ideas need to be for Grandparents, Uncles, Aunts and cousins (ages 8 - 13 (boys and girls).
Teacher gifts too!
In the past I have cross-stitched (very time consuming - not enough time)
Scrap booked
Painted canvas
made blankets
I'm running out of ideas!
My mom has suggested that we purchase something at a garage sale! We can make it into something else or leave it as is, but it has to be purchased from a garage sale. I think this sounds fun - but not everyone in the family agrees. :)
Our families have also said, "Just buy for the kids" but one of my brothers has no kids and the other only has one kiddo. And Bryan's brother only has two kids and his sister's kiddo is an adult now. So I feel bad not getting them something when they are buying for our 5 kids!
Any suggestions would be helpful! Please leave your suggestions in the comments! There may be others who want ideas too!

Happy Christmas in July!

Happy Meal!!!

2008-07-17T09:23:00.004-06:00

A Happy Meal never tasted so good!
It didn't even taste this good when we got home from China!

My mouth is finally feeling a wee-bit better!
Last night I was able to get a Hamburger Happy Meal chewed! :)
Oh, it was sooo good!
I'm really tired of chicken soup!!!

I went back to my oral surgeon today - there is still some infection so I will do another week of antibiotics. He did a few nerve tests and said that I have about 50% of nerve sensitivity back, mainly on the left side! Prayerfully this will get better soon! If not, there is surgery that can be done - but that wont be for another 6-9 months! I told him that I need to go to China before then!

Thanks for all your prayers and support!

My favorite Birthday present of all!

2008-07-14T23:23:00.005-06:00

Do you remember how the Cosby's always sang a song or had a performance for their mother's birthday? Well, I do and I always thought that would be the greatest birthday present ever! Well, guess what I got it this year!

Kenzie and Conner put together a show - Anderson's Got Talent! Too cute!!!
They laid out the Red Carpet for me and gave me VIP seating!
Jailyn did her acrobatics! The girl is a natural! And loves to perform!
Conner wrote and sang a song for me! I will have to share the words with y'all at another time.

They even had a commercial - Advertising the dresses that I am making to help raise funds to bring our little Jorja home!

Then it was time for Kenzie to show off her Stranger Danger karate moves! Sorry Dad was the recipient of her kicks and punches!
Even Jailyn got into the act with Conner! Glad he is teaching her Stranger Danger!

Too cute! Maybe next year Brady will not be so shy and show off his hidden talents!
He did a great job as photographer for me though! :)

Hanging out with friends from church

2008-07-14T23:19:00.003-06:00

We always have a great time with these friends!
This band was soo cute! Conner has a guitar from our Rock Band game,
N has a Wiggles Book shaped like a guitar and Jailyn has a broom!
Too funny!

We went bowling too! Fun for all!

Happy 12th Birthday Kenzie!

2008-07-14T23:10:00.002-06:00

Conner woke up and came running down stairs to get us all to meet Kenzie in bed and sing Happy Birthday too her! I think he was more excited about her day then she was!
How sweet!
Since we had had an exciting week prior and have more activities this week we thought we would just hang out. Kenzie and Conner both had friends over, we swam and played all day!
Later in the evening, my wonderful friends, Jackie and Selinda, watched Jailyn so we could go see a movie. Kenzie wanted to see Hancock! It was fun and even better because I wasn't worried about Jailyn! Thanks friends!!! :)
The movie was good, but bad language.
We had a fun relaxing day!

Happy Birthday Girl!

Some cute water pictures of the kids!

2008-07-14T23:01:00.002-06:00

We do love being in the water!
This was a great day of just hanging out!

Kenzie and Moms Birthdays!

2008-07-14T22:27:00.007-06:00

Yes, my darling daughter's birthday is the day before mine! We love this! and we try to take advantage of it often! This year we decided that we needed a weekend of R and R- just the two of us! We haven't done this for three years! Kenzie is 12 now - so it seemed like the perfect time!
I'm not sure who was more excited - Kenz or me! Since I was having my wisdom teeth pulled on July 1st. We decided to get our manicures and pedicures done prior to my surgery! This was a great idea! Kenz has been such a huge help to me with Jailyn this summer that she deserved a little treat!
Friday the 4th we watched fireworks with the rest of the family but we were really excited to get out of the house the next morning and begin our weekend! I had told her where we would be staying and some things that we would do - but there was one BIG surprise that I wanted to keep that way! For weeks Kenz made me give her clues as to what we were going to do. These were the clues I had given her:
- One doesn't have to dress up, but it is more fun then arriving casual.
- We may do a bit of dancing.
- You have been there, but have never seen this.
- You may be in it some day.
and the last but not least
- Not middle school but...
That's right -

High School Musical! It was great! One of Kenzie's soccer team mates and her Mom came with us! It was great fun! We hope we can go see some more LIVE performances!

After the show we went to dinner with our friends, and laughed and laughed!
Then our friends went home and Kenzie and I returned to the Westin! Yes, I have never stayed at a Westin! It was beautiful! Kenzie was sold when we walked in the room and she saw the flat screen T.V.!

We ended up going to the pool for about 3 hours! Kenzie was water logged! It was so relaxing though!
We were a bit hungry when we went back to the room -so I ran to the nearest store to pick up some snacks. Love the Westin but refused to pay $6.00 for a small can of cookies! :)
When I got back we munched and cuddled and watched The Bucket List! Great movie!

In the morning we spent another 2 hours or so at the pool! Kenzie found a family to play ball with. This sweet family made us miss our boys and Jailyn, but it didn't last long. :)
The rest of the day was spent shopping! We hit a ton of stores and were able to purchase Kenzie some school clothes for next year.
But best of all we spent the whole day chatting and goofing off! We had a wonderful time! I wish we could do this every year!

Thanks for a great weekend Kenzie!!!!

Here I am sporting my swollen face and muscle cramped face! This is the biggest smile I could get!

Kenzie in the mall trying to decide what # she likes her sleep number bed at!

Wisdom Teeth

2008-07-10T16:30:00.004-06:00

What other 41 year old gets their wisdom teeth pulled?
Yea, I guess I am a late bloomer!

I had to get the two bottom wisdom teeth pulled on July 1st. Though I hate any dental work! I'm such a chicken! I wish I could have muscle relaxers when I get my teeth cleaned! I knew the process would be bad, but I never thought the recover would be this bad!
Not only did I have to have the teeth pulled but I also had to have bone graph's on the teeth next to the wisdom teeth.
I swelled like crazy! but I didn't bruise. :)
The pain medicine made me sick to my stomach - that was horrible!

My kids were great! They totally let me stay in bed for two full days! They each helped take care of each other, including Jailyn! Kenzie was my nurse, and was wonderful! She made sure I took my medicine on time and that I had my ice packs on and off every 30 minutes! I didn't have to think about anything - she did it all!
Brady took great care of Jailyn, feeding her and even changing her diaper! :)
Conner is my cuddler - so when ever I needed to be cuddled he was there for me!

Nine days later I am still only eating that which melts in my mouth. (Last night I was able to eat yummy birthday cake! - Kenzie's!)
Today I went back to the surgeon and found out that the left bone graph is infected. So now I have to clean it out 3-4 times a day. It kills!
I also have nerve damage. The question is - how much nerve damage? The nerve could be upset because of the infection, or there could be semi-permanent or permanent damage.

I am now on new antibiotics and will be doing my exercises! Prayerfully this ordeal will be over soon! I have another scheduled appointment next week. I hope I can go in next week with a full smile, not the lazy smile I am sporting now!

A boy meets his mommy!

2008-06-30T06:34:00.003-06:00

My yahoo friend, Julie, has her little guy!!!
What a happy boy! He is so cute!!!
Congratulations Julie!

A Happy Ending/ or beginning!

2008-06-27T07:12:00.003-06:00

YEA! A happy adoption story, like a roller coaster there are so many ups and downs in adoption. Like many scream or hold their breath on a roller coaster so does one through the adoption journey.
Praise God this family is finally together!!!
The Houston's

More then half her life

2008-06-11T13:47:00.003-06:00

Yeah! We have hit the mark!
Over 16 months and 6 days ago Jailyn was placed in our arms! She was 16 months and 6 days old!
From here on out we will have her in are arms longer then she was a lone. We love cuddling with her, reading books to her, playing with her, teaching her, watching her grow! No one in the family can imagine what life was without her! In some ways Jailyn has changed our lives, but in other ways - nothing has changed. Jailyn loves being part of our family and loves the craziness of all of us! As Kenzie says, "Jailyn is most happy when she has an audience."

Jailyn has come so far since we first met her! Her speech has improved incredibly! Even people who are not family members can understand her! She loves to talk!

Jailyn will be a huge help as we bring Jorja home! The birth order may be a bit confusing as first as I'm sure Jailyn will be teaching her big sister the ropes!

Two new beginnings!

2008-05-30T17:14:00.002-06:00

Presley Claire has joined the Reis family! Amy and Derek are head of heals!
And another dear friend, gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! They have two older boys so when they found out the were expecting a girl they (especially Mom) where so excited!
Congratulations John and Becky and boys!

Little Lexi will not be coming home

2008-05-28T05:52:00.003-06:00

Oh, International adoption! Roller coaster after Roller coaster! Lexi's mom and dad, Amy and Derek, left so excited to hold their precious daughter for the first time! Though they held her in their arms for a short time, they will forever hold her in their hearts. Their story is on their blog at Our Journey To China
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Praying for peace for your entire family!

"I like water"

2008-05-26T16:46:00.003-06:00

One of Jailyn's favorite sentences so far this summer! We just purchased her a sprinkler. She loved it! Cosmo thinks it's pretty cool too!

Sorry for the delay!

2008-05-26T15:53:00.011-06:00

I know we haven't posted anything personal lately - sorry!
I would love to catch you up!
Our dear friends, Gary and Valerie, returned home from China with their beautiful daughter Aubriana! She is adorable and doing new things every day. As most of our kids who come home from China, she was a bit behind developmentally. It wont be long until she is doing all the same things as her big brother,(they are only 30 days apart.) Needless to say, I have been trying to get to their home to help them through this transition. I love this new family! They are awesome!!! God will bless them!

The weather in Texas has been so blasted HOT! We were able to take the kids to the pool. Usually, the pool in May is still pretty cold, but not this year! By August we will be adding ice cubes to the water to cool off! :)

Kenzie was our photographer - sorry I deleted the one with me in a swimsuit!

Here's a few photos of our sweet Jailyn - she is growing so fast! When we first met her we had her preschool days all planned out. With cleft lip and palate we assumed she would qualify for PPCD (Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities). Jailyn has far exceeded our expectations and though she will still be evaluated, we highly doubt she will qualify. Though I love the PPCD curriculum I am so proud of how hard Jailyn has worked on her speech! And the big kid, they have worked so hard with her. It's amazing how each one of their personalities teach her something!
This photo is from Mother's Day! The family took me to a Demo Derby!

Jailyn loves to help mommy in the kitchen!

Kenzie's choir went to a competition! They did great! Received a perfect score and then spent the day riding the rides at a small amusement park in Dallas! Fun! Fun! Fun! Jailyn and Mom had a great time too!

Hope that helps y'all get caught up on our sweet pea!

On a brighter note! Another family will be united!

2008-05-24T11:52:00.002-06:00

I am so excited for my blog friend Amy! She and hubby will be united with their sweet Lexi very soon! Lexi is a cleft lip and palate baby, which of course touches my heart! Lexi is so beautiful! I can't wait to see her finally in her mommy and daddy's arms!
Follow along this week at Our Journey to China
Love you Amy!

More information

2008-05-23T18:14:00.002-06:00

As this tragedy of Maria Sue Chapman unfolds it just continues to become more and more sad. Maria Sue had just turned 5 years old, 10 days before the accident. The family was all together to celebrate the engagement of the Chapman's oldest daughter's engagement and were hours away from a graduation party marking Caleb (their other son's) completion of High School.
Please continue to pray for this beautiful family!
In lieu of flowers the Chapman's have set up Maria's Miracle Fund in her memory.

Pray for the Chapman family

2008-05-22T07:13:00.005-06:00

Steven Curtis Chapman's family is mourning the lose of their beautiful 5 year old daughter Maria.
She was killed in a tragic accident in their drive way.
I can't imagine the pain they are all experiencing right now!
This family has adopted three girls from China and have been an inspiration to many!

Another Forever family born!

2008-05-21T12:28:00.002-06:00

We met this couple a few years ago, as they were doing paperwork for a China adoption. As they wait has gotten longer and longer they decided to adopt from Ethopia while they wait for their daughter in China.
The met their son for the first time this week!
Beautiful new family pictures! Click here to see their blog!
Oh, I think I want to go to Ethopia next! :)

Another new Family!

2008-05-19T07:55:00.002-06:00

Yea! A little girl will meet her momma and daddy for the first time this week!
Follow along! Little Jenny is from our Jorja's orphanage!
Congratulations to this new family who are finally going to be together -
FOREVER!!!

THE BIG WAIT

My Advice for Amy

2008-05-14T07:56:00.002-06:00

Gotcha' Day is filled with so many questions - will my child cry? will she/he be hungry? will she/he be tired? will she/he accept me?
Amy, remember to let Lexi take the lead! and don't take her first reaction to you personal. Her little world has been turned upside down, she will come around! It just may take time. I wish I had brought bubbles or something for Jailyn. Though she did well emotionally, but bubbles may have helped her relax a bit more with us. I've never met a kid who didn't like bubbles.

While in China Jailyn took 3 hour naps. The other mom's that we were with kept saying, "Don't let her sleep - she wont sleep tonight." We let her sleep - she got sick the next day, but guess what if though we have been home for over a year, Jailyn still takes 3 hour naps! I'm so glad we let her sleep!

One more word of advice... I know many adopted kids suffer from constipation. While in China we gave Jailyn bottles and Congee. What she was used too. Her little world was so crazy already -the last thing she needed was more stress. We kept her on her comfort food. On the airplane ride home she had her first taste of muffins, and at home we slowly brought baby food into her diet. This really seemed to work. She never suffered from constipation. We are hoping to do the same with our 4 year old. Somehow, I need to make baby food seem perfect for a "big" girl! Plus, it's gotta be healthier for these kids!

Can't wait to see you with your little girl!

Shower Game #3

2008-05-13T09:01:00.002-06:00

Hey Ladies,
This is not really a "game" but can be very helpful to Amy as she is united with her sweet girl!
Please list any advice you would give her while in China, on the way home and when she get home.
Feel free to blog on your blog, and/or send directly to Amy on her blog.

Amy, so excited that you are leaving so soon! We will be following your journey through your blog! And will
be crying tears of joy when you and hubby finally have your little Lexi in your arms!

Love ya,
Jodi Sue :)

The Winner is...

2008-05-11T18:45:00.002-06:00

Lexi's mom! Yea Amy!
Amy guessed 165 and there were 166 whoppers in the jar!
Way to go Amy! Your prize will be sent to you this week!

Our next game will be announced tomorrow!
Hope y'all have had a Happy Mother's Day!

Jodi Sue

Baby Lexi's Shower game #2

2008-05-07T06:53:00.006-06:00

I loved hearing all the Gotcha' Day stories! I love to see Forever Families born!

For our second shower game we will play -
Guess the number of whoppers in the jar!
Leave your guess in the comments! Even if you don't know Amy and Lexi feel free to play along!

My daughter, Kenzie, made her guess this morning.
I haven't counted them yet - so I have no idea either!
Have fun guessing!

Sharing our Gotcha' Day with Jailyn

2008-05-05T21:14:00.004-06:00

February 5,2007 - What a great day. We were filled with excitement and fear. We had no idea of what to expect. We were going to meet our daughter for the first time - Wow! We didn't know much about her at all, but were in love with her already! We made sure we made the hotel buffet breakfast thinking that this may be the only meal we get today if Jailyn is cranky and not happy with us. As we ate breakfast, we also watched the Superbowl - yeah, kinda funny! Monday morning in China!
Our guide,Nancy, took us to the Civil Affairs office and after being there for 15- 20 minutes a van with 6 little kiddos pulled up. And there was the first time we saw Jailyn's sweet face. Tears came to my eyes, but I was determined not to cry - I didn't want to scare Jailyn.
As the children were brought into the room, Nancy began yelling, "Yunyan! Yunyan!" She didn't know which one was Yunyan (Jailyn's chinese name). Coco brought her over to us immediately. As soon as we held her we knew that she was our princess!

She took us in and didn't whimper a bit. We tried to give her a bottle but she wanted it much warmer then it was. But, she was fine - just taking everything in.

Jailyn was 16 months old and only 15 lbs. She was not walking yet. She didn't show us for a few days that she knew how to crawl. As she began to trust us did she begin to show her true personality and what she could do.
After we returned to our hotel room we stripped Jailyn down to see how small she really was. We gave her a bath. She did okay, but she was nervous and clung to me. This was a good thing that she had to trust me to take care of her.

We spent the rest of the day hanging out in our room and the hotel hallway with our fellow travel mates, meeting their children.

The personality that we met that first day - I still see in Jailyn 15 months later! She takes everything in! She is so observant and very social. She is also still our princess! Not so much an "angel" but our "princess"! :)

Baby Shower for Sweet Lexi

2008-05-05T05:56:00.004-06:00

Our dear friend Amy will become a mommy again in less then a month!
We want to be part of this celebration so we will be having a Virtual Shower for her!
Lexi is in China, and will be 19 1/2 months on Gotcha' Day!
She is a peanut, but Mom is hoping she will be wearing 18 month clothing.

The shower will run from today May 5th - Friday May 16th.
Our first shower game is to share your Gotch'a Day experience with Amy!
Hopefully, this will give Amy some idea of what this incredible day will hold for her!
Blog your experience on your blog but make sure you let us know that you are joining us so that we can check your stories out! (feel free to leave your blog address here or on Amy's blog)And remember to post photos! We love photos!

Sending gifts to Amy - please email me at soccermom@tx.rr.com and I will give you her mailing address.

Virtual Baby Shower

2008-05-02T07:36:00.003-06:00

I get to host a fun Virtual Baby Shower for my friend, Amy! I am so excited to celebrate the adoption of their daughter Lexi! Amy should be traveling by the end of May.
I have never hosted a Virtual Shower so if there is anyone out there who has some suggestions please feel free to leave a comment! I want to make this special, but have no idea of what I am doing!
Here are some sweet photos of little Lexi! She is so adorable I can hardly stand it! Oh, adoption is such a wonderful thing!

Drama Queen! OOOPS DRAMA KING!!!

2008-04-30T12:49:00.002-06:00

Conner preformed for his school with his fellow third graders! They sang a rap song about how they are going to ace the TAKS test (state test). It was too cute! Brady and Kenzie asked me to get them out of school a bit early so they could see Conner perform. Too sweet!
Conner did a great job and was in total character! He was even on pitch!

We love our little girl!

2008-04-30T12:11:00.003-06:00

Just thought we would share some photos from this sunday! She such a doll face!

Jailyn's favorite activities!

2008-04-30T11:59:00.005-06:00

Jailyn cracks me up!!! She loves to wash her hands! She has found that she doesn't need any help to turn the water on at the bathtub! She will stand there for a long time just washing her hands! The other day she was having a typical two year old temper tantrum... I said, "Do you want to wash your hands?" She jumped up and ran to the bathtub, of course with a smile on her face! Too cute!
Jailyn also loves to jump on the trampoline, especially with her brothers and sister! "Jump! Jump!"
Jailyn loves to take everything in where ever she is! We were waiting for our car to get an oil change - and she took over the position of the Welcome committee at the garage. Not a shy bone in her body! :)

Jailyn keeps us all smiling and laughing!

Finally in their arms

2008-04-24T07:56:00.003-06:00

Oh Valerie and Gary have had a day of it! Check out their blog! What a day! They must be exhausted but at least they finally have their precious daughter!
Aren't they a beautiful family!!!
www.countdowntoaubriana.blogspot.com

Valerie where are you?

2008-04-24T06:09:00.002-06:00

Oh my! I couldn't sleep last night! Our friends Valerie and Gary are holding their little girl for the first time today (last night in China!) Valerie please post some photos! I can't wait any longer!
Brady told me today -"It's like you are getting another baby!" I know - I am just so excited!
Come on Valerie post already!!!

Another forever family born!

2008-04-21T05:12:00.004-06:00

Please join us watch and pray for our dear friends Gary and Valerie as they are finally united with their little angel! Aubriana Rose

Fourth time mom fails

2008-04-19T13:42:00.003-06:00

You might think that on the fourth kid I would have a handle on this baby/kid stuff! Jailyn has been restless for the last week at night. Up whining, and sometimes even crying. I was getting so upset and sad that she was going back into her feelings of insecurity and wondering if we would be there for her when she woke up... all those wonderful emotions that go with adoption. :) Today Kenzie was playing with Jailyn and said, "Hey Mom, Jailyn has a new tooth!" Oh, brother - all that worry for nothing! Nothing a little Orajel wont cure! :)
Lesson learned, not everything needs to be analyzed!

Have a great day!

I've been TAGGED

2008-04-18T14:14:00.003-06:00

I have been tagged by threepsinapod!
These are the rules:
1. Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names a well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

7 Random facts about me...

1. I am in a phase of my life that I love to wear and buy jewelry. Jewelry always fits. Okay maybe not always but it's not a personal when a ring doesn't fit as when a swim suit doesn't fit. I love shoes too - but I have big feet - so my shoes don't ever look feet.
2. I am a coach potato during the Olympics! Don't care if it is summer or winter Olympics. (of course, Apollo is the highlight to my Winter Olympics.) I am glued to them. I am so excited about this years Olympics in China. I hope all of this controversy blows over! The athletes need to compete!
3. I have begun a new clothing line. Sweet but Sassy! I am selling these clothes to raise money for the adoption of our little girl, Jorja. I hope to have a website up soon! I am still designing this new line.
4. I love to craft! Scrapbook, cross stitch, paint... I love this stuff, but I am so behind on all of my projects!
5. I have "cows" not "calfs" - yes, I have been told by my brother, and a very good friend in College - with friends and family like that who needs enemies!
6. I am not naturally a red-head. I thought most people new this but just found out that a friend that I have known for a year didn't know.
7. I am absolutely terrified of the dentist. I am getting a filling and a crown next Tuesday. My tooth is killing me but I am still extremely nervouse!

GO Brady!!!!

2008-04-15T16:02:00.002-06:00

Not very often do I get to brag on Brady and his soccer team. They have gone trough a lot of growing pains in the last year.
Not being able to pull out a win all season. (some games were so close!!!) This Saturday they won!!! 3-1!!!
The other team was not happy at all! That made it even more sweet!

Of course, Bryan and I were tag team parenting on Saturday. Conner had to get to his game 20 minutes after Brady's game began so I didn't get to see the game. Of course!!!
Conner's team won too.
Kenzie team lost 0-1 but won a tough scrimmage on Sunday!

Just had to share Brady's happy news!

What a difference we all can make!

2008-04-10T06:52:00.001-06:00

When Jacob Winters invited all of his classmates to his birthday party recently, he asked them not to bring him any presents. Instead, this very special young man asked them to make a donation to IAAP for the care of little Zhang Qi. Jacob had seen Zhang Qi on our site, and wanted to raise enough money to cover a sponsorship for one year. To the delight of everyone, Jacob's friends donated a total of $642.00! We are so proud of Jacob (and his friends). We know Jacob's parents are very proud, too. Little QiQi is a very lucky baby to have such a special honorary big brother!

April Fool's!!!!

2008-04-01T16:26:00.008-06:00

This is a great day to be a mom!
How fun was this! I woke the kids screaming, "Snow Day"!
They were a little confused, but Mom said it, it must be true!
April Fool's!

In the kitchen I was preparing Green Eggs and Ham!

They were pretty disgusted by these - Brady of course ate them.
Being the nice mom that I am, knowing that the kids would probably not be too interested in eating green eggs and ham - I had donuts holes on hand for them.

Well, of course I had to play another trick! I had made edible play dough Donut holes. This shocked each and everyone of them! Brady even said, "oh, these donuts look good!" and he put the whole thing in his mouth! I thought I was going to pee my pants!
Conner was a bit more suspicious, but finally took a bite! :) Gotcha!

and Kenzie was the least excited about the green eggs and ham went right for the donuts. The look on her face was priceless.

I wish I could have taken photos at the moment, but that would have given the surprise away.
Good thing these kids have great sense of humors! :)

A beautiful family!

2008-03-24T05:54:00.003-06:00

Another family made in heaven, finding each other half a world apart!
We are so happy to see Robyn and Paul finally united with their sweet little Avery!
Congratulations!

www.chasingchinadreams.blogspot.com

Happy Dance!

2008-03-13T13:09:00.002-06:00

We just received word from our adoption agency that China has given us permission to adopt
Suixi Chun Yu! (otherwise known as Jorja) We are so excited to have this paper!
Please pray for Jorja, as she learns she has a forever family just dying to hold her!
I am so excited to be able to send her packages!
Any ideas of what to send a 4 year old are welcome!

2008-03-11T22:01:00.001-06:00

Jailyn is growing!

2008-03-11T13:03:00.003-06:00

This is Jailyn and her speech therapist

Jailyn had her speech evaluation today! A year ago, she was 17 months old an her speech was evaluated to be that of a 4 month old. Today she is 30 months old and her speech development is that of a 26 month old! WOW!! Her vocabulary is strong but her articulation is what needs more work. We are so proud of the accomplishments she has made!

I've been tagged!

2008-03-05T22:04:00.000-06:00

Okay, I have never been tagged before, but I guess I need to list 7 random things that many of you out in blogland may not know about me. The rules are to list the person who sent this to you and leave a comment on their blog so readers can visit yours. Post the rules on your blog. Share 7 facts about yourself. Tag 7 people at the end of your post, linking their blog. Let each person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1) As my husband says, I rise with the sun and set with the sun! I am an early to bed, early to rise type of person.

2) My favorite vacations have been skiing with my family. The kids love skiing! I would love to take them on a cruise at sometime! If any of you have any ideas of what cruise is good for families feel free to let me know.

3) I accepted Christ as my personal Savior when I was 5 years old. Thank God for His ultimate gift of salvation!

4) I would love to open a hands on children's museum.

5) I often have car rage! Especially in the middle school carpool lines!

6) My dream house would be a large home on 3 or more acres, filled with the kids we have now and more Special needs kids. The 3 acres would have to be some what flat - there would have to be room for a soccer field, that way Bryan would be home more often. :) I hope God leads us to adopt a deaf child some day!

7) I have become a home-body. I love staying home with my family!

I will have to add the people who have I will tag. It took me long enough to come up with these seven things. :)

Jailyn's First snow!

2008-03-04T13:57:00.003-06:00

Babies! Babies! Babies!

2008-03-03T15:50:00.004-06:00

Yeah! My dear friends Valerie and Gary received the first photos of their daughter today!
She is so precious!!!
Aubriana Rose

She looks like her mommy!

Congratulations! I can't wait for our first play date!

Love ya!

Happy Kaeleb!

2008-03-03T06:40:00.002-06:00

Oh I believe this little guy is happy to be with his mommy and daddy!
What a blessed family! Congratulations y'all!
www.k6comehome.blogspot.com

Kaeleb meets his parents today!

2008-03-02T09:29:00.003-06:00

Oh, my heart is just doing flips!!! Kaeleb is meeting his forever family today!
He is so adorable! Continue to pray all goes well for this beautiful family!
Some of the family are in China and stayed home.

Follow their blog and encourage them as they are half a world away from their family.
www.k6comehome.blogspot.com

Update on My friends daughter

2008-02-28T07:56:00.001-06:00

Yeah! Her surgery went well! All is well!
Thank you for your prayers!

Prayer Request

2008-02-26T06:44:00.002-06:00

Please pray for my dear friend in Germany. Amy's 16 year old daughter is having ear surgery on Thursday.
The tough part is that this sweet 16 year old is autistic. This is going to be very hard on her and the whole
family. Please keep them in your prayers!
www.cathchingbutterfliestwo@blogspot.com

Love you Amy!

Kaeleb will meet his parents in 4 days!

2008-02-24T07:29:00.005-06:00

A little boy from our agencies WC list (Lifeline Adoption Services) will be united with his mommy and daddy in four days! Follow their journey! www.k6comehome.blogspot.com
He is sooooo adorable!!!
Congratulations Connie!

2008-02-23T22:16:00.004-06:00

Don't mess with these karate kids!

2008-02-23T22:04:00.006-06:00

Today Kenzie and Conner participated in their karate school's Board Breaking seminar.
How fun was that!!!
Each student was given 10 boards and could choose their favorite style to break each board. When all the students were done, our wonderful instructors gave demonstrations! I am putting together a slide show - and hope to get it up soon! :)
Jailyn loves going to watch Kenzie and Conner. She can't wait to be a karate girl! One of the Asst. Instructors, Ms. Brianna, helped Jailyn "break" her pretend board. Jailyn loves to do this at home too.

It's all about Conner

2008-02-23T21:46:00.004-06:00

Conner had a great day on Friday! At school he has been studying economics. Today they had "Market Day" every 3rd grader had to make up a business plan and have a product or service to sell. Conner decided to name his store "The Wheel of Fortune" He was selling chocolate covered fortune cookies, but with a twist. He made a spinner with four colors on it. He had dipped the fortune cookies in chocolate and added colored sprinkles to match the spinner's colors. Depending on what color your spin landed is what colored fortune cookie you would get. We were very proud of him! Not only did he have a fun product, but he made it fun for his customers. Good job Conner! Infact, the whole 3rd grade did a great job! This week they will figure out what their profits were. :)
- for those wondering, the students didn't use real money. They earned money over the last few weeks in school and used that play money. :)

Conner also had a big evening! He belt tested at Sidekicks karate for his brown belt! He has done a great job in karate! There were some months that we thought he might drop out. But he has stuck with it and should be a black belt by next year at this time! We are so proud of him!

Chinese New Year Celebration

2008-02-11T13:42:00.000-06:00

We had a fun celebration with our city wide group of adopted kids from Asia. We had a yummy potluck of Chinese foods. Fun crafts for all the kids and a dad even brought his portrait studio with him and took beautiful photos of the kids! I will post those when I get them. I wasn't too worried about great group photos since he was taking much better ones!
We had great help from Brady, Kenzie and Conner and their friends Rich, Lauren, and Anthony! Thanks guys! (They wanted to provide Valet parking, but we didn't think it would be a good idea to let Conner get behind the wheel yet!)

Happy Year of the Rat!

Kia!

2008-02-09T15:07:00.000-06:00

Our next karate girl! Jailyn was given an adorable gee and karate pants from a friend - she loves it! When Kenzie and Conner are getting ready for karate class she yells to me "Gee! Gee!" She loves wearing her Gee! and of course Jailyn has her pink belt! Only 7 months away from being eligible to earn her white strip! She already knows her beginner pattern for "Little Dragons", the attention span is something we will need to work on over then next few months! :)

Happy 1st Gotcha' Day!

2008-02-05T11:01:00.000-06:00

Wow! A whole year has gone by! Jailyn has grown up so fast! She was such a baby when Coco first handed her to me. She was so curious! Never cried, just took it all in -like she knew what was happening. God was so good in preparing both Jailyn and us for our meeting. He has been even better to us this year as we have gotten to know each other and learn from each other. Jailyn is a normal 2 year old - funny and sweet! But can throw some major temper tantrums! (Course Mom can throw some good ones too!) We have all changed a bit in the last year!

Today we plan to take the kids to a local Chinese Restaurant. Should be fun! Amazingly enough we haven't been to a Chinese Restaurant this year. (We've gotten take-out, but haven't stayed. We're kinda weird!)

Pray for the Orphans in China!

2008-02-04T06:22:00.001-06:00

Please pray for the orphans in China! This harsh weather has hit many of the orphanages! Broken heaters, lack of electricity, no water! Please pray!
This is a letter from Half the Sky Foundation, a report on some of the orphanages:(Jorja's orphanage is not mentioned so we are praying she that she is fine - Of course, I wont rest until I know for sure!! That's a mommma's job! :)

Hello again,

Welfare institutions in south and central China are having the hardest
time dealing with the weather disaster. This part of the country is
simply not equipped to deal with extreme cold or heavy snow and ice.
The
most common critical problems are power outages, lack of safe
drinking and
cooking water, lack of fuel, diapers and public transportation. In
many
places where buses have stopped running, our Half the Sky nannies have
been walking hours (in one case, 4 hours) along icy roads to get to
the
children. As conditions worsen, our nannies and teachers are
remaining at
the institutions day and night. They have given up the idea of going
home
to their own families for the holidays. They need quilts. They need
warm
clothing. They need coal, water, disposable diapers and food.

Here are the reports I have thus far, while in-flight. I will send
more
soon. Where you don't see a report, either all is well or I don't yet
have information. I will tell you when we've heard from everyone.
We've
also given all the directors an emergency number to call when/if the
situation changes.

Hunan Province -

Chenzhou has had no electricity or water for six days. They are
relying
on coal for heat and cooking. The supermarkets and banks are closed.
Staff is using personal money for baby food, diapers, coal and water.
Costs are rising due to shortages. They have a natural well which,
thankfully, is not frozen. Even the older children are helping to
fetch
water. They have perhaps six days of food remaining. The local
government is overwhelmed by the disaster and is unable to help much.

Shaoyang has seen heavy snow every day for 20 days. There is
sufficient
water and, for the moment, there is power, so the children are warm.
However, 5 of 6 power poles have been downed by weather. Only one
stands
and the institution fears it will fall as well, leaving them without
electricity. Much of the rest of the city is already dark. Children
and
caregivers continue to work and play together. High school students
are
cramming for exams and trying to ignore the cold. Everyone prays
that the
power pole will continue to stand.

Yueyang also has no electricity. The one functioning power generator
is
being used in the children's dormitory. They are relying on coal
heat but
the price has tripled in recent days. They are running out of food
and
have applied to the local Bureau of Civil Affairs for funds to buy
more.
Our HTS nannies have been walking for hours to get to work, often
slipping
on the ice, "even though they try to be cautious."

Xiangtan has had snow for the past 10 days. The main water pipe is
"broken again." There is no water for cooking right now but they do
have
electricity, coal and blankets. They are still able to buy food but
prices have gone way up. Not all of the HTS nannies can get to work
every
day. They are keeping the programs going as well as they can and make
sure that at least five nurturing nannies are there with the babies
every
day, along with the institution's caregivers.

Jiangsu Province -

Changzhou has seen some heavy snows but the director reports that the
children are fine. The director says that he's doing his best to
ensure
that the children do not suffer. Public transportation is crippled
by the
snow and HTS nannies and teachers are waiting for hours to catch a
bus for
home or even walking home in the snowy dark.

Nanjing reports no problems at all despite the heavy snows. I tried
to
fly into Nanjing yesterday but it was not possible.

Anhui Province -

Chuzhou has both water and power. Only public transportation has
failed.
HTS nannies and teachers are walking to work. They are leaving home
extra
early to be there for the children.

Guangxi Province -

Guilin has two broken HTS heater/air conditioners in the Infant
Nurture
rooms and they've asked us to replace. The rooms are very, very
cold.
They ask for more soft matting for the floors and also snow boots for
our
HTS nannies who've been slipping and falling in the ice and snow as
they
come to work. They are so ill-equipped to handle severe weather.

Jiangxi Province -

Fuzhou lost power for a few days but now it is back to normal. The
snow
stopped a couple of days ago but now is falling again. The directors
and
HTS staff have gathered all the children into one big room to keep
them
warm. They've bought New Years clothes for the children and will
have a
party no matter how bad the weather. This year, however, the foster
parents will stay home to keep the children safe. The institution has
enough food and water. They want us to focus on those in more serious
trouble and ask us please not to worry.

Jiujiang says they've never faced such bitter weather. They
desperately
need disposable diapers. Washable diapers cannot be dried. They need
warm clothes, shoes, gloves hats quilts and warm mats for the floors.
They need medicine for infant coughs and colds.

Hubei Province -

Wuhan suffers heavy snows but they still have power. Heaters are
working
but there is no water for bathing. The local community has offered to
take children in for the Chinese New Year and the institution feels
this
may be the best decision to keep them safe.

Huangshi reports that the freeze is so severe that all heater/air
conditioners have stopped functioning. They need quilts and warm
clothes
for the children. They need disposable diapers. Several HTS nannies
have
fallen on the ice on their way to work and they need medicine to treat
cuts and bruises.

Gathering these reports together makes me think about how careful we
have
always been at Half the Sky to maintain our focus on nurture and
education
programs. Ours is not a medical or relief organization. There are
many
wonderful groups who do that work. Probably the primary reason we've
been
able to accomplish so much and reach so many children is because we've
maintained our focus on our core mission -- providing nurturing care
for
children who've lost their families..

But a moment like this really cannot be ignored. The tragedy of
Hurricane
Katrina in the US taught us that no matter how wealthy a country
might be,
its vulnerable citizens (old, poor, ill, and orphaned children) are
the
ones who suffer most when disaster strikes. Even as China seems to be
entering the first world, a disaster like this is quite simply
crippling.
We know that orphaned children will be among those who suffer the
damage
most.

I say this because I think we should break one of Half the Sky's rules
and, if there are sufficient funds raised in the Little Mouse
Emergency
Fund, we should offer relief (water, food, diapers, quilts, clothing)
to
any orphanage where children need help. Let's see how this goes. If
people are as generous as I think they might be, we will work with the
provincial Bureaus of Civil Affairs in every hard-hit community, and
offer
assistance to all welfare institutions where there is need.

Please lend a hand, however you can. You can donate to the Little
Mouse
Emergency Fund by calling us in the US at +1-510-525-3377 or in Asia
at
+852- 2520-5266 or by visiting us at www.halfthesky.org. Once there,
you
can click on "Donate Now"
http://give.halfthesky.org/prostores/servlet/Categories?
category=Direct+Contributions
or go to http://www.halfthesky.org/help/docs/usdonation-
orderform.pdf to
download a form to mail or fax. Donations are tax-deductible in US,
Canada and Hong Kong.

Please forward this message and tell your friends and family.

I will be back with an update very, very soon.

Thank you!

Jenny

Jenny Bowen
Executive Director
Half the Sky Foundation
www.halfthesky.org

Half the Sky was created in order to enrich the lives and enhance the
prospects for orphaned children in China. We establish and operate
infant nurture and preschool programs, provide personalized learning
for older children and establish loving permanent family care and
guidance for children with disabilities. It is our goal to ensure
that every orphaned child has a caring adult in her life and a chance
at a bright future.

Evan's b-day party

2008-01-27T15:40:00.000-06:00

Jailyn was invited to her first friends birthday party! Evan's party, or as Jailyn pronounces his name "Ewwwn"!
Evan turned the big 3 years and welcomed it with a bag! He had a cool Monster Truck jump house, a fire truck came by, and Jailyn's favorite - pony rides! I think Jailyn's 3rd birthday may have to have ponies too! Oh, my goodness she loved them! Every time we had to take her off to let someone else ride, she had a temper tantrum, and then she would run back to the fence yelling, "My turn! My turn"
Enjoy the photos!
Thank you Evan, Mike and Suzanne for inviting us! We all had a great time!

Our helper

2008-01-27T15:28:00.000-06:00

Jailyn loves to help with chores. She loves to use the lint brush on the family room coach and chairs, that the dog lays against. And she loves (infact gets very mad if we don't let her) to get the new bag for the trash can. She comes running to the kitchen when she hears the trash being emptied. She opens the kitchen cabinet (which she got scolded for the first few times, until I figured out what she was trying to do.
She gets the bag and begins her job of getting it ready for the trash can. The other day we let her take her time and she did the whole thing. We even have to tighten the bag, once in the trash can, and she attempted to do that. She amazes us! She just watches everything and doesn't miss a trick!

Do you like her little outfit? I decided to enhance some of the older kids overalls and jeans and give them a little Jailyn flare! These are for the fun Colt Round-up school assemblies at Conner's school. (Hopefully, Jailyn's next year)
After the assembly we stayed to eat lunch with Conner too.
What a fun day!! Conner is sure proud of his little sister!!!

Jailyn -Alpha Dog!

2008-01-16T16:29:00.000-06:00

For Christmas Cosmo (our black lab) received an invisible fence for his gift. Okay, so maybe it was a gift for me - but he wears the pretty new necklace. He received this gift because we were just so tired of him eating everything off the counters and out of the sinks in the kitchen. We put the disc in the cabinet near the trash can. He can still get to his water and food bowls and to his favorite, cool spot on the kitchen floor - but not near any people food. This has been working really well.

The other day, Jailyn, Cosmo and I were in my closet and Cosmo decided to get into my bathroom trash can. I scolded him and he went to my room to lay on his bed. Jailyn went running off into the family room (where the rest of the family was). All of a sudden she came running back into my bedroom with the invisible fence disc. She ran to Cosmo yelling, "Bad dog!"

I was screaming for Cosmo to come to me, as he was whining - being shocked every time Jailyn got near. I was totally freaking out (not helping the situation!) Poor dog!

Believe me Cosmo will not be messing with this little 22lb Alpha Dog again! :)

New Blog

2008-01-15T14:32:00.000-06:00

I have decided to begin a new blog. We have received so many comments and questions since we began the process to bring Jailyn home to our family that I decided to take the time to discuss these topics. Feel free to leave comments and questions. I pray this blog will encourage others about adoption.
http://touchedbyinternationadoption.blogspot.com

Happy Birthday Conner J!

2008-01-15T06:44:00.001-06:00

I can't believe my baby boy is 9 years old!
We began the day with pancakes and candles!

He had tests at school, I hope he did well - I'm sure he had a hard time concentrating. He came home to find a St. Louis Rams freezer mug (in the freezer) and a Rams baseball cap on the top of his wrapped presents! He had tears of joy. He was so surprised!
We spent time playing outside riding bikes and playing baseball!
Then we went to karate! Conner had a great class and at the end was able to break a board!
With his head!!! He wow'ed the fans!!!

Conner choose Olive Garden for his birthday dinner! We had a great waiter! It was a slow evening so we had the attention of a few of the waiters! He had a great time!! They made him do the chicken dance (kenzie joined in on the fun!

Then we came home for yummy cake!
You know your 9 year old is still a little boy when his wish when he blows out his birthday candles is to go to sleep cuddling with mom! He was so excited when his wish came true! and he rested very soundly!

Happy Birthday Conner J! We are so proud of you!!!

New Waiting Child List

2008-01-12T07:42:00.000-06:00

ASIA Adopt has a brand new Waiting Child list! There are 12 children under the age on 1 years old. I am amazed at how many there are this young. They are soooo adorable!!! There are a few with cleft lip and cleft palate.
www.asiadopt.org click on Waiting Children You will need to follow the steps to get the password but believe me it will be well worth it! These children are beautiful!
(We met a couple in China who used ASIA Adopt and were very happy with the assistance they received.)

Madison Adoption Association is expecting a new list any day now too. Join their yahoo group if you want to see this group of children. (Our social worker works very close with Madison and loves them.)

Have a great day! Praying that these children find their homes soon!

Drew is on hold!

2008-01-11T14:48:00.000-06:00

Please pray for he family that is looking at this little guys papers! He has been on this WC list for almost 6months! Pray that his family will find him soon!!

Too cute not to post!

2008-01-08T14:29:00.000-06:00

Conner is having his 9th birthday party! and he has scheduled his party for us.
The Theme is Pokemon

7:00 pm - 11:00am

7:00- 7:40 Pokemon Charades
7:40 - 8:25 Pokemon Name Game
8:25 - 9:35 Free Time
9:35 - 9:55 eat cake
9:55 - 11:12 Watch Pokemon 4ever Movie
12-00 - 12:30 Free Time
12:30 - Free Time again
(no sleep listed!)
6:00- 6:40am breakfast (guess I will be up early fixing breakfast!)
6:40 -11:00am free time

Is my boy a scheduler or what! hopefully, he will be a little flexible!

11 months with Jailyn!

2008-01-07T17:10:00.000-06:00

I can't believe Jailyn has been home for only 11months! She fits into our family so well! It seems like she has been here since birth! Once in a while it will dawn on me that I don't have any infant photos of her, and that I never saw her first smile! The times I do think about that just kill me, but on a day to day basis we just go about life loving each other and learning from each other.

Jailyn is speaking so well. She plays well with anyone/everyone who will give her attention! She still loves to mimic everything anyone does. This is good and bad! Her mouth has gotten her in trouble a few times - trying to back talk to us like the other kids try to get away with!

Jailyn loves bath time with Conner! It is a really good bonding time for the two of them.
Kenzie and Jailyn love to sing songs, draw and read books.
Brady loves to play!!!!! Brady has no problem coming down to a two year olds level. :)
Daddy was off work for Christmas and New Years... he spoiled her rotten! It was a great bonding time for them!
Jailyn and mom love cooking together and playing and napping. Jailyn is still having a hard time going to bed with out Mom. Even if we do get her to go to bed in her crib, she usually wakes up in the middle of the night to lay with Mom. I don't mind the cuddling!

Thanks to all of you who have played such a huge roll in bringing Jailyn home and helping us juggle everything now! We really appreciate it!

If anyone would like information on adoption feel free to contact me! The road is long and bumpy but so wonderful when you finally get that little one home!!!

Update on Zhang Qi and Evan

2008-01-04T17:32:00.000-06:00

Remember this little guy that I told you about on December 1st?
He was literally starving to death!

Thanks to your prayers and donations he is growing healthier and healthier!
Here is an updated photo of him!
Our little friend, Evan received a clean bill of health from the MRI!
Praise God! Evan has a long road a head of him but we all feel better to know
that he does not have any brain damage. Please continue to pray for him and his
parents as they work hard to bring him to age level development!

My heart hurts!

2008-01-02T07:47:00.000-06:00

I am so excited to have found our little girl and can't wait to hold her in our arms! But, my heart also ahes for those friends who are still waiting to see the face of their child! I have many friends who have been waiting approx. 24 months (some a longer wait, and some haven't reached the 2 yr mark yet and are still waiting!). I know God has lead us down different paths! Please don't be mad at us! Please look at it as another child is finding their forever family!

Of course, I am the type of person that wants to make everyone happy - I have no control over this! As I pray for your journey, please pray for ours too!

Can't wait for y'all to see your babies faces!

Our wonderful Christmas present!

2007-12-29T16:49:00.000-06:00

To hear more please visit our new blog
"jorja on our minds and in our hearts"
at http://journeytojorga.blogspot.com

Chef Jailyn!

2007-12-27T07:52:00.000-06:00

Not one of my other kids ever wanted to help in the kitchen like Jailyn does!
We really need a stool for Jailyn to be able to reach the counter, but for now we use the high chair!
Jailyn and Mom are making a new dish with some of our left over turkey!

Wonderful Christmas Morn!!!

2007-12-27T07:44:00.000-06:00

There's nothing like the joy of children ages 14 to 2 waking up on Christmas morn! Kenzie and Conner came to our room at 5:30am! We made them sleep until 7am! We had a wonderful day watching Jailyn experience her first Christmas morn!

Only two kids left

2007-12-25T00:15:00.000-06:00

Our adoption agency has only two more children to find families for on this list!
Drew and Leah! They are both beautiful children!
For more information on these two children contact Karla at www.lifelineadoption.org
karla@lifelineadoption.org
Praying these kids meet their forever families soon!

Happy Birthday Brady

2007-12-24T23:38:00.000-06:00

Brady is 14 years old today. He was so excited today! Almost too much to handle having your birthday on Christmas. Brady is a so good at letting us celebrate his birthday on Christmas Eve! Usually, he wants me to make lasagna for him - but this year he wanted Steak and Shake, he loves the cheese fries. Watching him eat these fries is not a pretty thing, so I didn't post any of those photos. :) Happy Birthday Brady we love you! You were/are a wonderful Christmas present!

Sweet Baby no more tears

2007-12-20T13:42:00.000-06:00

This sweet little guy would have been 2 years old on Sunday. He was on an adoption list with people searching for his forever family, but he died. In God's hands, may this little guy's eyes now see and his heart be full of peace. This sweet guy never knew what it was like to have a mommy or daddy to hold him tight. Please pray for all these kids world wide whose families have not found them!

Away In A Manger:
Be near me Lord Jesus
I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever
and love me I pray.

Bless all the dear Children
in your tender care
And take us to heaven
to live with thee there.

Christmas Igloos

2007-12-17T13:02:00.000-06:00

Rather then making Gingerbread houses (which can be very time consuming, frustrating, and a mess). We make Christmas igloos! We love this tradition too! This year the kids worked on them a little bit at time and came up with this scene! Love it!

Merry Christmas to y'all!

Made out of sugar cubes and vanilla icing! Fun for all ages!!!!

Prayer Requests

2007-12-16T07:24:00.001-06:00

These two little guys, Sawyer and Evan, were Jailyn's buddies for 16 months. They are both having medical issues and are under going numerous testing. Please keep them and their parents in your prayers! Bonding is hard on any level, but when you are worried about the health and development of your child it can be even harder! We love you guys!

Holiday Traditions!

2007-12-13T06:35:00.000-06:00

What are some of your holiday traditions? We love new ideas!

Some of our traditions are - each child has a Christmas tree at their bedroom door. The kids have really enjoyed this. They usually decorate their trees in ornaments that they have made throughout the years. This year Kenzie and Conner (my decorators) wanted to get new ornaments so they all match. Brady our traditionalist didn't want anything new - he likes his old ornament. He did want to add a new soccer ball ornament. They were all excited about getting Jailyn her first tree and purchase ornaments.

A few other traditions we keep up - take a drive around town at night to see all the Christmas lights. This is fun for all ages! Make chocolate chip cookies for Santa (you know they are Santa's favorite). Trace the kids hands and feet and make reindeer's out of them (we will be doing that today). It's amazing to see how the kids have grown. Brady's feet and hands are too big anymore! :) We read the Nativity Story throught out the month and remember to keep Christ in Christmas. We also wrap the kids doors with their specified Christmas wrap. We began this tradition when the kids couldn't read, so they knew whose gifts were who's.

And of course, we have lasagna and chocolate cake for Christmas Eve dinner! Brady's favorite! One year he asked for a cross cake to celebrate his birthday and Jesus' birthday! :) This year Brady wants his lasagna dinner on Christmas day. (not too sure what Mimi and Papa Paul will think of having an italian christmas! :)

This year, Kenzie suggested that the kids play Secret Santa. They will be choosing names and purchasing gifts for each other - under $10. So, they have to be creative. Hopefully this will be the first year of a lifelong tradition!

Enjoy your holiday traditions!

Jailyn's fun day!!!

2007-12-07T13:16:00.000-06:00

Jailyn had a great morning at her ECI (Early Childhood Intervention) Christmas party!
She was able to make a photo frame, decorate a cookie, take a sleigh (wagon) ride, and meet Santa!
We have talked to her about Santa, or "Ho Ho!" as we call him. But she has never seen him in person. While we waited in line ECI employees blew bubbles for the kids (what a smart idea! I think I'm going to bring bubbles shopping with me! Totally amused all the kids!) When it was Jailyn's turn to see Ho Ho, I told her, "It's your turn to sit on Santa's lap." and she turned toward him and crawled up on his lap! Couldn't believe it! Even though she wasn't all smiles, she was not nervous at all. Santa gave her a gift and she politely took it, walked to the basket of gifts and put it away. I think she thought it was a prop. :) I'm sure she will get a hang of the "greedies" soon enough, but it is sure nice at this stage! :)

Update on Zhang Qi

2007-12-05T10:34:00.000-06:00

This little guy is doing a little better! He is eating 50ml (approx 1.69oz) of formula every 3 hours. He is gaining strength enough to cry. (He was unable to cry when he entered the hospital) When the nurse stuck him for a blood test he cried! I'm sure that was a sweet cry! We are praying that his strength improves and can be moved to foster care.

Thank you for your prayers for this sweetie!

Another UPDATE 12/7/07
Zhang Qi is in stable condition! Although he has developed a cough. He is continuing to take his formula. If all goes well in the next several days he should be ablet o go "home" to the SWI. There are several nannies there waiting to love on him.

Please continue to pray for him!

Please pray for this little guy!!!

2007-12-01T20:02:00.001-06:00

This little guy's name is Zhang Qi. He is only 6 1/2 weeks old. His body is refusing to keep any milk down. He has been placed in a hospital (finally). The hospital didn't have an incubator available for him so one is being borrowed from another organization. Dr.'s are consulting today to see how to help this little guy!
Unfortunately, this happens to too many cleft babies!!!
Thank you for your prayers for Qi!

"Lovey"

2007-11-29T06:33:00.000-06:00

"Lovey" is my nickname for Jailyn. She is so "lovey"!
We were out taking photos yesterday and Kenzie snapped this one of Jailyn and I.
I thought it was too cute not too share.
Kenzie is getting to be a wonderful photographer!
I was also able to get a few good photos of our four kids! Aren't they cute!

Beautiful girl!

2007-11-27T14:02:00.001-06:00

I can't believe I didn't see these photos of Jailyn earlier.
Her lip looks so good!!!

Keeps getting better!

2007-11-24T17:38:00.000-06:00

Life with Jailyn keeps getting more and more fun! She loves everyone if the family and has a special relationship with each one of us! She is using her words or signs more and more! She has even come up with her own signs for certain things. The first few times it takes a bit of guessing as to what she is trying to tell us but once we figure it out - we are good to go!
Jailyn really enjoyed Thanksgiving break this week and having Dad and the kids home all day. This morning she was asking for "Tate", the little boy I babysit. I think Jailyn is ready for things to get back to normal.
We are excited to share Christmas season with her! She already can spot "Ho!Ho" (aka Santa) from a mile away. :)
Jailyn is calling now so I better go for now.

God Smiles on us! Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-20T22:02:00.000-06:00

Praise God!

2007-11-16T06:16:00.000-06:00

I have been told that Sandy and Hannah will be coming home today!! They were able to be at the swearing in ceremony at the US consulate yesterday (last night to us). Please continue to pray for Sandy as she tries to bond with her new little daughter and as she greives over the loss of her husband.

Prayer Request

2007-11-15T14:42:00.000-06:00

Please pray! A couple went to China to adopt their treasure! Sandy and Dennis are the parents, Hannah is the little girl!
They were days away from coming home as a family, when Dennis died while in Guanzhou. They had done all their paperwork accept the US Consolate appointent. By adoption laws Sandy is legally Hannah's momma. The problem is that since Dennis has passed away - the paperwork is incorrect. Sandy is having a horrible nightmare trying to get home with her daughter. Sandy's congressman is working on the issue, but prayers are needed for Sandy and Hannah. Sandy is alone in China with no other family. Her brother was able to get as close as Japan. I can't imagine what Sandy is going through right now! Please pray!

Interested in adopting? Isn't this little guy adorable?!!

2007-11-15T13:13:00.000-06:00

This sweetie is looking for his new family! He is 18 months old now! He was born with cleft lip and cleft palate. What a doll! If you would like more information on this sweetie contact karla@lifelineadopt.org Feel free to look at the other kids waiting for their forever families too. www.lifelineadoption.org

Conner's team are Champions!

2007-11-14T06:20:00.000-06:00

A weekend of soccer for Conner J! Three winning games on Saturday and the Championship game on Sunday afternoon! The team did great! Conner had a great weekend! He is always so happy on the soccer field!!!