Life in the sticks

3 years 4 months

2009-03-02T15:21:00.006-05:00

That's a long time. Three years!

Some days it seems like 20. Sometimes a month, I'm sure you can relate.

Charleigh has now been with us longer than she was in China. Took a while, but we've finally passed that milestone.

She's near the top of her Kindergarten class. Loves drawing, reading, writing notes and contracting lice like all kindergarteners do.

Charleigh will start t-ball this year. She's pretty excited although we're having trouble finding cleats in her size.

Speaking of size, Charleigh is pretty tall. Begs the question as to whether or not her birthday is exactly right. That coupled with having lost 5 teeth already, being able to sound out words on her own & write me notes that while are giggling-inciting, are phonetically correct.

I won't lie, and I'm sure it shows in the posts I've done (or not done) adoption was far more difficult than I thought it would be. Charleigh and I never did bond very well. We get along fine, but it's not the no-holds-barred love that I wish it was.

Anyway, here are some pics... take care. Talk to y'all when Charleigh's 10!

Charleigh meets Cinderella. Summer 2009 @ WDW

Charleigh graduates from Pre-K!

Charleigh waiting for the bus on the first day of Kindergarten!

19 Month update

2007-06-15T23:34:00.001-04:00

Seems I'm finally able to get on to this thing... it's been a while and mostly I think everyone has moved on. Did get an e-mail recently from someone who was interested... so here goes!

It's been 19 months since we brought Charleigh home. She has made tremendous progress in most all areas. She is excited about going to Pre-K in August. Although, it's not quite as good as riding the bus with her brother (who sailed through Kindergarten with flying colors!!). She'll ride the bus with him next year.

Her language is coming along, still rough in spots, but when I compare her to other 4.5 year olds she's about par. I think she's too independent still. She will always exhaust every possible choice before she asks or seeks me out for help. She also is still WAY too friendly. Most people think it's great, but she starts up converstaions with just anyone we happen upon, frequently starting them with "Do you know my mom's name is Zsa Zsa Gabor?" I've talked to her about strangers until I am blue in the face. So that's another thing that we're still really working on.

Here are a few pics- enjoy!

The Chasm

2006-08-19T21:56:00.000-04:00

Um yeah.

Here's the deal, sorry to say:

I have no more access to this site, I have no more access to my yahoo e-mail. Unless I go out of town (which is the case now), or to the library I can't post to blogger. I took a new job, much closer to my home. However, the laptop they gave me for working blocks yahoo e-mail and blogger.com (and e-bay and a bunch of other sites that I liked to check out on my "coffee break.") It's their computer, so I guess they're entitled...

I took the new job because it's 4.5 miles from our house. Before I was spending abount 2.5 hours a day on the road. Now I send Bubba off on the bus at 6:55 am (yikes that's early!!!) drop Charleigh off and I'm sitting at my desk at 7:15. Usually I leave work about 4:15 and we're home playing around 4:35. (I have to check all the artwork the kids made before we can go home:) ) So we leave about the same time in the morning, but get home 1.5 hours earlier. I love the extra time I get to spend with the kids!!

We haven't made the investment in a home computer yet. Our plan is to wait a couple more years for Bubba to really need it for school, then we'll probably buy one.

Everyone's good. Charleigh is making a lot of progress, particularly on her language. We're becoming more adamant that she pronounce the words correctly. She's moved up to the "Fours" class at daycare, since she'll be four in December. She's really blossoming. I can hardly believe we've been home 9 months this week.

Bubba Jr is doing good too. He started kindergarten last week. I cried as I watched my "baby" ride away on the school bus. He promptly contracted strep from someone at school at has already missed two days of school. So much for perfect attendance!

Congratulations to everyone who's been getting referrals!! You're in for the ride of your life!! Meanwhile, we're off to live ours...

So, adieu!

OH HAPPY DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-06-05T08:40:00.000-04:00

http://babykailee.blogspot.com/

2006-06-02T11:27:00.000-04:00

Finally I have a few more pictures to post!

In our hometown, near Memorial Day and again near Veteran's Day our town lines the streets with hundreds of white crosses with 3'x5' American Flags. It's truly a moving sight! The kids asked me about the crosses in the car the other day and when I explained to them the huge sacrifice men and women make to ensure our safety and freedom they asked if they could do anything. I told them they can say "Thank you" when they see one of our service men or women and they could also pray for them. Immediately their little heads bowed in prayer. It was soooooooooo sweet and I'm glad I had my camera on my lap and could capture this sweet picture!

A while back we went to a company picnic at Clyde's work. There was a racecar there whose driver allowed the kids to sit in the car and have their pictures made. This really made Bubba's day! Charleigh was a little less enthused with sitting in the car, though she did manage a small smile and then demanded to be removed.

"Woah Daddy! Are you sure you can fit??"

"Hey Mom! Look at this!"

Leapin' Lizards!

Brain Dump

2006-05-26T13:09:00.000-04:00

I see I haven't posted in a while. It's not that I don't have anything to write about, rather I have too much.

So, prepare for my virtual mind-dump:

Sometime ago, even the month of this occasion eludes me, Bubba Jr. Discovered the infant feeding chair. I held onto it since my sis always seems to have a child that fits it. Anyway, you know kids are always tickled by pretending to be a "baby." I laughed so hard when he put this on and then started walking around with it attached to hit bottom. Kinda reminded me of Aunt Fannie from Robots.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I realized with much dismay that we STILL do not have a family picture. To correct this infraction, I asked my dad to take a picture of our happy family of four.

Well. 3 outta 4 aint bad.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

T-Ball is officially over for the year. Bubba enjoyed it very much. Here's a picture of Bubba running the bases. He's #3.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Is it just me, or would anyone else rather hear a Barney song than Daniel Powter's "Bad Day" one more time?

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The kids enjoy swiping my camera and taking their own pictures.

Two from Bubba Jr.:

And two from Charleightra:

(Lawd, look at my chin! Next time I'm going to ask Charleigh to cut MY chin off, not hers!)

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Too much flash in this picture, but I thought she looked so cute, I had to post it!!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Last night was the end of the year program for the school where the kids go. I don't have the pictures developed (yes, I am one of the two people on earth who doesn't have a digital camera) yet. All the classes sang two songs complete with costumes and "moves." After the variety show was the Pre-K graduation. All the kids wore little caps and gowns (men's white button ups turned around). They were so precious! I can't believe Bubba's going to be in Kindergarten soon..... boooohooooo!!!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Last Saturday was the 'Lympics for our family. We started the day off with a final T-ball game followed by an awards ceremony at Chick-fil-A. After that we headed over to Clyde's work where they were having "Customer Appreciation Day." We ate lunch there, the kids jumped in the bouncy house and Clyde got to crank up a race car. I have pictures of that, but they are yet to be developed... We left Clyde's work and headed over to a pool party about 45 minutes from our house. The kids got to get a little wet. They all (we had my niece too) had their swimsuits and enjoyed splashing around in the pool. Bubba & Charleigh stayed on the pool steps. After that, quick change and then off to Hugh & Sonia's for an adoption get together. Hugh and Sonia are leaving for China next Thursday for their sweetheart Kailee:

Isn't she precious????

Here's another picture I swiped from Greg & Daphne.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Another blog to watch is Cindy & Jimmy's blog. They leave on June 8th to get their sweetie pie:

Awwwwwwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I hope everyone has a SAFE and happy holiday weekend!!!

Interactive USA

2006-05-17T13:25:00.000-04:00

I tried my skills at an Interactive Map Game, you can try it too, here.

Try and beat my score ;)

Rude Drivers

2006-05-16T15:25:00.000-04:00

I read this short article today:

Miami Tops Auto Club List For Rude Drivers

Minneapolis Rated Nicest

POSTED: 2:06 pm EDT May 16, 2006
UPDATED: 2:29 pm EDT May 16, 2006

Miami hosts the angriest drivers, according to a new survey that also
lists Phoenix, New York, Los Angeles and Boston among the top five cities for speeding, tailgating and cutting off other drivers.

The automobile membership club AutoVantage said the most courteous drivers are in Minneapolis, Nashville, St. Louis, Seattle and Atlanta.
The telephone survey included more than 2,000 adult commuters in 20 major cities.
Drivers also admitted some of their own etiquette breaches: nearly
all acknowledge yakking on the cell phone and nearly two in three admit sometimes driving too fast.

A spokeswoman for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said, "Human behavior is so involved" in all types of crashes. AutoVantage suggests drivers try to stay calm and avoid eye contact with angry drivers.

Woah. And just who in Atlanta did they talk to? It has to be a mistake. Has to be. There's just no way drivers in Atlanta can be described as "courteous."

So. And I know this for a fact.

Once I passed someone on the freeway in the emergency lane. (Mom, if you're reading this... it was a looooooooooooooooooong time ago.)

What's the rudest thing you ever did on the road?

YELL-Oh Girls!

2006-05-12T08:43:00.000-04:00

I just finished reading a book called "YELL-Oh Girls." It's a collection of personal writings by young Asian American girls about the challenges they face in their lives.

Honestly, I was a bit disappointed. I was hoping for some insight with regards to raising an Asian American girl in today's society. What I found, for the most part, was stories of bitter teenagers who were angry because they weren't born with blond hair and blue eyes, but have overcome (so they say) that anger and are happy being who they are. Unfortunately it came across as a little too whiney for my taste. Every child born wishes something were different about themselves. As a dark brown haired child with dark brown eyes I too wished I had blond hair and blue eyes (and make the hair curly while you're at it). Kids with curly hair want straight, kids with dark skin want light, kids with light skin want darker skin, the list goes on and on. However, there was one poem from "YELL-Oh Girls!" that stayed with me, and I'd like to share it here:

INNOCENCE

The first day of kindergarten.
The classroom, filled with happy children.
A sea of blond and brown heads.
And yes, one head of black.
Me.
I didn't care. I didn't notice.
But everyone else did.

I walk in the classroom.
Whispers follow, buzzing with gossip.
Secrets float from child to child.
I tensed, everyone was looking
At me.
They stared. I stared back.
Why was everyone watching me?

I see a boy about my age.
Pulling his eyes at the corners.
Making them sharp and pointed.
I realized, he was making fun
Of me.
But why? Because of my eyes?
I couldn't understand.

That first day was horrible.
Girls giggling, boys pointing.
No one who would be my friend.
I noticed, they were staying away
From me.
I almost cried. Tears sprang to my eyes.
But I kept my pride.

I boarded the bus for my ride home.
I felt safe, finally, at last.
Two boys sat in front of me.
They turned. "Ch!nk," they said.
Me?
Ch!nk? The word brought sadness to my soul.
Dejection crossed my face.

That first day hurt me.
Hurt my core, my only being.
But I finally realized.
People were prejudiced
Against me.
It came like a tidal wave. Smashed my spirit.
My eyes opened to the harsh world around me.

Written by Debra Yoo, Age 18 from Schaumburg, Illinois.
AUTHORS NOTE:
I wrote this poem in reflection of a real memory I have of two young boys calling me a "ch!nk" on the bus ride coming home from school in second grade. It was the first time I had ever heard the word. I didn't know what it meant or what its connotations were, but somehow it still greatly stung me. It was my first encounter with racism, and I will never forget it.

wth?

2006-05-10T11:14:00.000-04:00

M3 (You know, Salsa in China) posted a link to a uber-cool diy virtual hairstylin' website.

I couldn't resist. The results are, not surprisingly, hideous. Perhaps they'll be good for a laugh...

Moderately Norm. I had a hairstyle like this maybe 3 years ago.

I have titled this self portrait
"Mop"

OMG. Do I not look 60 in this hairstyle?

Please excuse the mouse in my hair. It can't help it. After all this hairstyle does resemble a rat's nest.

Um, yeah. You're on my elliptical machine. Everyone knows I ride this elliptical from 10:00 - 10:47.

Dream on Clyde.

WTH

Attack of the killer bobby pins.

And finally...

Hello. I'm Taylor Hicks.

Oh go try it. It's fun!

More Pictures

2006-05-02T14:41:00.000-04:00

My youngest Niece & Nephew. They are one year, one month apart.
My Middle Niece. She and Bubba Jr. are a month apart. (He is older, she is probably wiser)
Thank heavens his feet were clean!

Ladders, Bladders & Spiders

2006-04-28T08:09:00.000-04:00

Last night, on the way to T-Ball, I was waiting to turn left into the sports complex. There were other cars in front of me, so I was looking around while I waited (and silently cursed myself for not going the way that would enable me to turn right into the complex instead of waiting for these fools in front of me to get on with the show) I looked up in my rear view mirror just in time to see a white pickup truck (who was apparently paying as much attention to driving as I was) stop suddenly behind me. Then I watched as the ladder he had resting on top of the truck flew off, over the front of his truck and whack me in the bumper.

He jumps out of his truck runs over and says through the open sun roof "I don't think it hit you." To which I responded, "Oh yes, it did." So we pulled over into the Taco Bell parking lot (crammed with parents buying nutritious dinners for their children before athletics begin). I get out, he gets out. Sure enough there's a mark. Now, if I drive Beemer or something like that I might have been concerned, or even miffed. However... my sturdy mom-mobile (aka Taurus) has received more severe licks from it's owner than the one that resulted from the flying ladder.

So I told the guy it was ok, and not to worry about it. He asked once if I was sure and then when I responded in the affirmative he quickly sped of lest I change my mind.

Once I got finally got to the T-ball game things went pretty smoothly. Until the bottom half of the first inning. That's when I noticed Bubba Jr. spasmodically jerking about near second base. I went to the fence for a closer look. As I suspected, he was holding his (you know) crossing his legs and dancing about. I tried in vain to get his attention. I briefly considered just hollering, "Son! Do you gotta pee?????" but then I changed my mind, but only after a fierce internal argument. Since I couldn't get Bubba Jr.'s attention I tried to get Clyde's since Clyde was out "coaching" between first and second. After the world's worst charades spectacle Clyde finally got the picture, went over to Bubba Jr. (who was still holding you know and staring at the heavens. I wonder if he was praying he wouldn't pee in his pants?) and sent him to the sidelines. I met him and asked him if he needed to go to the bathroom, to which he loudly responded "yeah mom, I gotta go real bad!" So much for subtlety.

And finally, as if you cared, an update on my Spider game.

I deleted it. Wiped it off my computer. It was mocking me. Ridiculing me. Telling all the other games what a LOO-ZER I am. There was no limit to it's malicious ability to reel me in for another game. and another and another.... at the risk of joining Spider Players Anon I decided to quit cold turkey. I've had a few shakes and one cold sweat. But other than that, I do believe I'm finally winning.

Find Your Wings

2006-04-25T16:46:00.000-04:00

There's a new song burning up the Christian charts called Find Your Wings by Mark Harris. It's the song every parent has for their child.

It's only for a moment you are mine to hold
The plans that heaven has for you
Will all too soon unfold
So many different prayers I'll pray
For all that you might do
But most of all I'll want to know
You're walking in the truth
And If I never told you
I want you to know
As I watch you grow

Chorus:
I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams
And that faith gives you the courage
To dare to do great things
I'm here for you whatever this life brings
So let my love give you roots
And help you find your wings

May passion be the wind
That leads you through your days
And may conviction keep you strong
Guide you on your way
May there be many moments
That make your life so sweet
Oh, but more than memories

Chorus:

It's not living if you don't reach for the sky
I'll have tears as you take off
But I'll cheer as you fly

It's so worth a listen.

This weekend - & More stolen stuff

2006-04-24T08:28:00.000-04:00

Had a very busy weekend. Got to meet three new babies!!

On Saturday we went to a Blogger dinner hosted by Julie T. She made a fantastic dinner. Here's a picture I stole of Julie & Charleigh

Here are some more pictures I stole from Lisa:

Emily Faith FuBo (aka pageant Princess)

Annsley

Charleigh!

Bubba Jr & his new friend (Annsley's big bro)

On Sunday we went to meet Harley. He is a very sweet boy! It was such a joy to finally get to hold him!

Me holding Harley while Bubba Jr watches.

A gaggle of chillins:

Back row (L to R) My niece, Bubba Jr., & MG holding her lil bro Harley

Front row (L to R) My nephew Shawn-P, Charleigh & my 'nother niece

Thanks to my cousin (MG & Harley's Mom) I have 3 bags of clothes for Charleigh, including the darling dress Charleigh's wearing in the above picture. I won't have to do laundry for the princess for 3 months!

Thoughts before the weekend

2006-04-21T15:57:00.000-04:00

Thoughts (in no particular order) I need to get out of my head before the weekend:

1. FIRE IN THE HOLE! This ought to mess up my commute... I didn't like this station anyway. They don't sell winning lottery tickets no matter how many times I ask them to.

2. Did you know in a pinch you can use your hair-stylin' iron to smooth out wrinkles in your clothes? Pros - Heats in 60 seconds, smooths from both sides, don't have to take off what you're wearing. Cons - none yet, but Bubba Jr. did witness this morning revelation so I'm sure there will be a con coming soon.

3. This week I wore pajamas to work. Actually, they were gauchos, but DANG they feel like wearing PJ's!

4. I "borrowed" a pen off a lady's desk at work. She got fired today. I meant to return it, really.

5. I still suck at Spider. I decided that my fragile ego was getting bruised playing that game so I moved down to the "Easy" level. Guess what!!! I still suck.

6. I almost cried my eyes out when the love of my life was in the bottom three. Clyde tells me he doesn't vote, but I bet after I go to bed he's calling this little number or this one just to spite me! (If you don't like American Idol, don't bother clicking the links in #6)

7. It's a really bad idea to drink a load of caffeine and eat a couple fig newtons before a meeting. Not only are you hyper as all get out, but you've got to GET OUT!

Have a lover-ly weekend!

Lost in Space

2006-04-18T14:38:00.000-04:00

Or somewhere. Evidently I haven't been feeling the draw of my blog in a while. A long while.

So since I've been neglecting it, not much has happened. I can't apologize and say, "But I was.... (fighting forest fires, promoting world peace, curing cancer, or even exercising)" because I wasn't. I was being horrifically lazy. Why? dunno. Suspect you don't care much either. I mean if I don't, why would you?

So here are some pictures of my urchins:

The first two pictures were taken in the outfits I had custom made in China. I know I posted other pictures similiar to this, but I , um, wanted to post these pictures I took in the, um, laundry room. Yeah. The last picture is Charleigh's first SCHOOL picture. Check out that dimple!!!

I think I forget to tell y'all about something I did for the first time. A few weeks back I caught and ate my own food. I know, some of you may think "Big Woo" but for this indoor girl it was a major woo.

I caught a fish. No, I didn't "do" the worm.

No, I didn't take it off the hook.

No, I didn't clean it.

No, I didn't cook it.

I did eat it though. Told ya I was lazy.

I was reading nursery rhymes to the kids the other night and we came across The Little Old Woman Who Lived In a Shoe.

Goes like so:

There was an old woman,

Who lived in a shoe;

She had so many children,

She didn't know what to do.

She gave them some broth,

Without any bread;

She whipped them all soundly

And put them to bed.

Bubba Jr. looked horrified. I, on the other hand, slapped my hand on my thigh, declared I LOVE THIS POEM and read it again.

I took the kids to the dentist. Why is it that the one person who spent the first three years of her LIFE without brushing her teeth the only one not to have a cavity?? Bubba Jr. and I were scolded by the dentist while Charleighitra was praised ad nauseam for her glorifically beati-fantastic teeth. Honestly, she was a perfect angel throughout the whole process. Not suprisingly!

We celebrated our first Easter with Charleigh this past weekend. She looked the picture of spring in her Easter dress, complete with purse and hat. It was a good thing I noticed you could see the flowers on her underwear through her dress before we actually got to church. Bubba Jr. was his usually handsome self. However he refused to let me blowdry his hair so he went looking a little like a creepy Brylcreem advertisement.

2006-04-04T09:45:00.000-04:00

So last night my dad called me to ask me if I was watching the game. Heh? OH. That basketball game. Okay, no. Not planning on watching it.

I spent the evening reading a book (Jodi Picoult's "Keeping Faith," which I highly recommend.) Clyde did turn on the basketball game. I didn't want to watch, much less listen so I put my earplugs in, but surreptitiously stole glances over my book just to see who was winning.

I went to bed somewhere around 10:30, which is late for me. I'm sure it had nothing to do with this little voice in my head that kept saying, "Make the shot, fool!"

So anyway, without any further ado, may I present your 2006 NCAA Tournament Champion:

Moi

Yeah, I know it's so wrong.

Insanity

2006-03-30T14:41:00.000-05:00

What do you think the definition of insanity is? I'm sure there are varied layers to insanity but today I'm going to address the concept of doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results. (Bear with me, this won't be as boring as it sounds. I hope.)

There's a little book out there titled Who Moved My Cheese? and the basic premise is if a certain action that was producing results no longer does, then ya' need to move on. I've read this book. Apparently I need to read it again.

I keep playing Spider Solitaire. Why, I don't know; because I suck at it. Look at the stats below! I played it once ELEVEN times in a row before giving up.

Another thing that's insane is my commute. Yesterday I left the office at 5:04 and arrived home at 6:51. That's just wrong.

I do love my job, guess that's why I put up with the commute. I mean where else can I get paid to fail miserably (and repeatedly) at Spider Solitaire?

2006-03-29T11:55:00.000-05:00

Well it wasn't raining Saturday. But it nearly could have been SNOWING.

It was entirely too cold to have children parading around town in the back of pickup trucks tossing candy at equally cold parents with smiles frozen on their faces. Frankly I'm surprised that my arms were able to move to take a picture when Bubba motored by.

Can you see him? Yeah, me neither.

As a result of the sub-arctic temperatures, I spent yesterday home with a sick boy-child. I took him to the doctor because to me it's worth a $20 copay not to listen to Clyde whine. Yes, Clyde. I believe I've mentioned this before, but my dear husband is one of those types that whisks their child to the doctor every time they sneeze. So after listening to Clyde's well-founded, professional diagnosis of our son's near death sickness, I took Bubba to the doctor after Clyde left for work. Unbeknownst to Clyde, I did not call an ambulance as dear hubby would have thought necessary, I strapped the kids in the car and moseyed over. We stopped at McDonald's on the way.

I wonder sometimes what Bubba Jr will be when he grows up. Part of me thinks he'll be a DA since on the way to the doctor he questioned me at length as to the doctor's record of "seeing white spots in children's mouths." He considers the doctors ability to see white spots as an automatic strep verdict with a mandatory sentence of throat swabbing. He detests the swab. The doctor looks in Bubba's mouth, but makes no comment. I know Bubba thinks he's out of the woods. No swab needed here! No white spots detected! Woohoo!

But wait! What's this?? The doctor slowly turns around with the swab in his hand. It might as well of been a meat cleaver for the hysterics that immediately ensued. I'm sure people thought we were ripping his nails out for all the squalling that was going on... Charleigh seemed concerned but not overly as she watched her brother get his just desserts his throat swabbed. When it was over (11.25 seconds later) the doctor turned to Charleigh with the swab still in his hand and said something to her. I don't know what it was, I couldn't really hear over Bubba's keening. I'm not sure Charleigh heard it either, but her eyes got big and she started shaking her head "no" and backing up. Fast. Apparently she thought it was her turn. She wasn't having any of that cr@p.

Charleigh has decided she wants to be an Oriole, too. I have to admit she looks adorable in Bubba's hat! Baseball players are tough, not sissy smilers. So this is her "tough" face. Grrr!

PS Non-reactive on the strep.

Proof that anything is possible

2006-03-27T10:05:00.000-05:00

I have absolute proof that anything is possible.

I read a blog written by a lawyer who wishes to remain anonymous. Recently he issued a challenge that if anyone beat him in some espn tournament thing he'd go back to posting 4 times a week. I think he's funny as all get out, and what the h&ll? I'll go ahead and give it a try. I followed the instructions and wahlah, I have myself a "bracket." I chose all the teams based on absolutely nothing. Random selections.

After the first week I was in 32rd place. Out of 206. Not too bad since I had to ask Clyde what sport the NCAA tournament was. The only reason I asked is because at the end they make you pick the final score. When I mentioned to Clyde about a one or two touchdown spread he looked at me like I was insane. And apparently I am.

After the second week I skyrocketed to 3rd place. I think it's because I picked LSU to win. LSU, as I have recently learned is not in California, like I thought. It's in Louisiana. Cool. Learn something new every day, that's my motto.

After the third week, well see for yourself.

****I deleted the picture because it was too stinkin' big. ******

I wonder how many egos would be crushed if they learned they were getting obliterated by a female accountant who knows more words to Barney songs than she knows about basketball?

Attempts at youth

2006-03-27T09:51:00.000-05:00

Two weekends ago I hosted a get together at my house in the woods for my "gang" from highschool. Some of these people I'd not seen in over 10 years. Crazy, and at the same time inexcusable since most everyone lives within an hours drive.

We had a great time whereby we started out pretending we were all responsible 30 somethings with perfect children and lives. The night ended with the children digging their way to China and some husbands kissing wives that weren't theirs. This was highly reminiscent of high school. At any rate, here are some photos of people you don't know, but make me smile.

Bubba Jr rules the teeter totter since he outweighs all others.

Two of the dads. The dad in the short sleeved shirt is a stay-at-home dad. Interestingly, the child he's holding doesn't belong to him. Hm...

The girls! I'd like to say the tall skinny one with light hair is me. Alas, no. I'm the second from the left with the moon-pie face.

Two sweeties!

Silly boy!

It's chilly mama!

I don't like you Clyde!

The youngest sweetie at the party!

Photos

2006-03-24T23:34:00.000-05:00

Bubba Jr.'s shiner, take 1

Bubba Jr.'s shiner, take 2

A while ago I was writing about a game we like to play called Wig Out. It's essentially a matching game where you match people together. Although there are 10 different poses, Charleigh and Bubba Jr agreed that the four in the picture above pretty much represent us.

First is Charleigh, gotta have the hair bows! Next comes Rico Suave, I mean Bubba Jr. Then comes mommy (why they chose this woman as me I don't know. I don't have curly hair, nor have I ever been that skinny. Okay, maybe when I was 6). And lastly comes Clyde. Notice the mullet & scraggly chin hairs.

Here's a picture of Bubba Jr after we went to Kindergarten registration. It's hard to read, but the sticker on his shirt says "I'm going to Kindergarten!" Me thinks he's pretty proud of that!

Boys will be boys.

Princess Charleigh takes a turn on the slide.

These next pictures are courtesy of Bubba Jr. He wanted to take some pictures around the house. The descriptions are HIS not mine.

This is a picture of our lamp.

(Mom asks, "What about the dude on the couch?" Bubba says, "Well I wanted to take a picture of the lamp.")

This is a picture of my sister.

This is our new furniture.

(Mom says, "Great shot sweetie.")

This is a picture of the other lamp.

(Mom says, "It's also a picture of my forehead, and after this picture was taken I saw white spots for 20 minutes)

Charleigh with her Auntie K

Auntie M, Charleigh-Jo & Bubba Jr. (In his Guangzhou Hard Rock Cafe shirt)

Welcome Harley!

2006-03-24T13:17:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to my cousin's family on the birth of their newest youngin, Harley!

He came along this morning at just over 9 pounds. The Princess in Pink is Harley's big sister MG. (Remember, MG's the darling who found Jesus at the Wal*Mart)

Thanks Auntie M for sending the pictures!!!

Shiner

2006-03-23T11:07:00.000-05:00

Bubba Jr. has a shiner.

Two boys were fighting over some chaw in the playground and... just kidding.

In "block center" yesterday another child mistook the directive for cleaning up with the opportunity to throw a two seamer. Since Bubba was unaware play was in progress, he didn't have his face mask on and subsequently caught the block with his eye instead of having it harmlessly ricochet off a face mask.

He claims it hurts, which I can believe, but then he runs over to the mirror to gaze in awe at his wound. I caught him winking for effect.

Charleigh was thoroughly unimpressed with Bubba's abrasion. Apparently she thought her gnawed cuticle was more of a concern.

We're going this weekend to visit some adults and I'm just waiting for Charleigh to careen off her bike and foul up her nose...

To add to the drama, today is Kindergarten registration. No matter how many times I've told Bubba Jr today is REGISTRATION and NOT the start of Kindergarten he refuses to differentiate. To him, once I said "Today is Kindergarten..." I lost him. I probably could have said anything after that but all he heard was "Today is Kindergarten." So I can't wait to show up at the public school with my bruiser. What a way to make a first impression!

Saturday is opening day for Baseball/Softball related sports. Since we live in a small town, this is a big deal. In fact Bubba's going to be in the parade. Keep your fingers crossed it doesn't rain.

What I want to be when I grow up

2006-03-21T11:07:00.000-05:00

Tee Ball

2006-03-16T13:31:00.000-05:00

Bubba Jr. started Tee-ball this week.

I think Tee-ball is probably the most enjoyable sport on the face of the earth to watch. The children are just precious beyond belief. And they have no idea what they're doing. All except Star. Star is Bubba's Jr.'s doppleganger. If Star didn't have his socks pulled up whereas Bubba Jr had his socks pulled down, I couldn't have differentiated between them on the field. In the looks dept... However, Star is, well a Star. He's the only one with hustle. By the end of the one hour practice 95% of the kids were off in la-la land. Building dirt castles, running in circles, chatting with the other "players." Not Star. Star's got the gift. The gift of attentiveness.

The cutest kid out there (aside from BJr.) was this tiny mite of a thing who had absolutely no concept of tee ball. The coach tells him "Run to First George!" George proceeds at full tilt to second base. "No George, over here! Come on Buddy!" George heads off to Oklahoma. Or somewhere else b/c he sure as heck wasn't running to first base.

Charleigh-Jo was pretty PO'd that she didn't get to play. She kept trying to get out of the stands while pointing toward the field chanting "Charleigh play!" She was slightly mollified when I gave her some pretzels.

Bubba's team is the Orioles. Only most the kids can't say Orioles and it sounds more like Oreo's. Which is fine, b/c I think Oreo's are pretty darn tasty. Especially the Ooops Oreos. Even Bubba Jr knows they are my favorite and tries to get me to buy them at the store. Only if I do, they won't even make it HOME. So we have to run, run away from the Oreo's.

Why on earth is Kevin Covias still on American Idol?

Insulted.

2006-03-13T15:33:00.000-05:00

You know those annoying ads that wheedle their way into the pages you're reading? Well I'm over on My Space and the ads that pop up for me say:

Are you clean inside? Death begins in the colon. Now is the time to free your body of accumulated toxins and other causes of irritable bowel syndrome."

The ad below that one says:

Breakthrough new herbal formulation ends constipation, diarrhea, bloating and cramps. Try Digestrol today!

You know, I'm old. But I'm not that old.

2006-03-13T10:25:00.000-05:00

I spent this weekend doing the Devil's work.

Yard work, that is.

There should be a sign on my mailbox that reads "Abandon all hope, you who enter here."
I can't help but compare certain aspects of my yard and driveway to Dante's "Inferno." There's a certain element of Limbo as you approach the layers of hell, and I would say your body experiences a bit a limbo as you bounce up the driveway.

I'm sure if Dante was writing his masterpiece in 2006, a punishment of unparalleled equal would be scrubbing vinyl siding. Reserved only for those with most heinous earthly felonies. Dante also mentions something about a river of blood. That would be the bountiful crop of blackberry vines that surround you as you attempt to clean your yard. I had nightmares about those vines, like unholy velcro.

Bubba Jr. went on his first spend-the-night on Friday night. Of course I was a wreck about it. Possibly that's what drove me to attempt to drive my body into a state of complete fatigue. So that I would not think about the fact that I've spent 2,012 days making sure he's a safe as I can possible make him. Then I pass him off to someone else with a smile and a wave. And a long prayer. I had doubts that he would be able to stay all night. He's sort of a mama's boy. Through NO fault of my own. It's not like I faun over him constantly, or that I'm overly protective. It's not like I sent him to his friends house with his bike helmet. Oh wait. I did.

Anyway, he made it through the night and was severely p-o'd when I came to pick him up Saturday. No kiss, no hug, pushed me out of the way and stormed over to the car, launched his luggage in and sat in the seat glaring at me. Nice. Love you too. Later he told me he just wasn't ready to come home yet and could he please stay 3 more days? Sister's aren't as much fun as I said they'd be. Humpf!

Charleigh was great without Bubba Jr cramping her style. She yanked out all the matchbox cars, watched "Trick My Truck" with her dad and helped in the yard, Charleigh style.

Me: Come pick up this twig.

Her: Me, Charleigh?

Me: Yes, you Charleigh. Come pick up this twig. (Me pointing near me)

Her: (Bends down) This one? (hold up pine needle.)

Me: No, this twig right here by Mama.

Her: Mama?

Me: Yes, this twig right here by Mama. Come pick it up.

Her: (Bends down and picks up a 1" twig.) This one?

Me: (Goes inside to put head in oven)

Eventually she decided taking a nap was preferable to trying to figure out her demanding mother.

She has turned into quite the social butterfly. If you sat anywhere near us in Church yesterday I apologize. However, it is quite cute when she smiles and waves and says "Hello!" Even if it is 58 times. At one point she was "reading" the bulletin and noticed there's a picture of Jesus on it just like the one that is in the sanctuary. Delighted at the match, she hollars out "Mama TWO Jesus!" As she holds up three fingers.

That reminds me of a cute story I'll close with. Just before Christmas my aunt was at evil*mart with her granddaughter, MG, who is also three. In the lawn/garden area there was a rather large manger display, complete with Mary, Joseph, all the wise fellows, some animals and a manger. However, there was no baby Jesus. While my aunt waited in line to pay, MG was checking out the display. Suddenly MG shouted in joy, "Nana!! I found Jesus!" Good for her I say, good for her.

B

2006-03-09T16:56:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I caught Bubba Jr. singing (choke) Britney Spears.
In the tub.
I asked him (nicely) where he heard that song and he said he made it up.

Two days ago he was riding his big wheel singing Kelly Clarkson.

Did I ever mention that Charleigh's the world's slowest eater? Yesterday morning I watched as she got a spoonful of unnaturally colored high sugar-octane loops. (It's ok. I was sending her to school shortly afterward so they can deal with my lack of a.m. culinary skills) Anyway, she gets this spoonful of maybe 6 loops. Peers at it. Decides it either 1) contains foreign material, 2) is the wrong color combination, or 3) CONTAINS JUST TOO MANY DARN LOOPS. She dumps out the spoonful and starts again. Big scoop, 6-7 loops, peers at it. Starts to dump, slowly slowly the loops slide back into their milk bath until one solitary purple loop remains on her spoon. Peers at it. Decides it's acceptable and starts to put it to her mouth. Notices I'm watching. Puts down her spoon and says "Hi Mama." So here's a math problem for you. If it takes a child 2 minutes to eat zero loops, how long will it take for the child's sibling to report this transgression?

Tomorrow I may give her 10 loops. Since it takes between 1 and 2 minutes per loop this should help to eliminate the "hurry up!" that flies from my lips with alarming regularity.

Four Months!

2006-03-06T11:32:00.000-05:00

Holy toledo. I can't believe it's been four months since Gotcha... unreal. In some ways it seems a lifetime ago. As a tribute I'm going to write down as many things as I can think of that she can say (which beats what I can say in Chinese by about 10 times.)

Ready, Set GO!
Turn here!
Pawpaws house!
Cow!
Charleigh turn.
Mama! Dindin (bubba jr) NO turn! Charleigh turn!
Help shirt please
Help chair please
Daddy stinky!
Give hug
my bike
get this (pointing at things in the grocery store... thanks a lot bubba jr! I could have lived happily without her learning this!)
my coat
my shoes (which still comes out sounding like shoe-cheese)
mommy
look truck!
move
come here
no night night
charleigh pants? shirt? socks? shoes? unnerwear?
charleigh face hideous!
mamaw
charleigh school! Ms Michelle, Ms Header (Heather) Ms Jeana, Ms Lindy (Lindsey), Ms Dindy (Cindy)
what this?
daddy bye bye work
go church?
(Which reminds me... she's been insisting that she gets a turn to say the blessing at dinner. Clyde and I about lost it when in her mumblings she clearly said "Be Quiet")
play outside
charleigh bath?
tissue
cozy (this one too sounds more like coachy)
all gone
all done
1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9
charleigh three
I jump!
daddy truck
I LIKE IT!!
yes
yeah
ok!
yep!
I no like it
baby
baby cry
uhoh
sorry mama
where?
charleigh pretty!
look pretty, OH! pretty!
hair, pony, 1 pony, 2 ponies, hair bow-bow
turtle
blanket
book
elmo
sad
flower
tree
car
table
fader (father)
I love you, I love you too!
Tomorrow, see you tomorrow
Good night, don't let the bed bugs bite!
be quiet
stop
shhhh!
hot
cold
goodnight
goodmorning
Jesus

Okay, there might be some repeats in there... sorry. What a list! All these things are words she says with little or NO prompting from me. She will repeat virtually any word you ask her to say, but this list is what she can say pretty much on her own.

!
B

I forgot these:
be careful
whee!
boo-boo
noodle
chicken
cereal
poptart
milk
banana
apple
orange
eat
freckle
nose
eye
ear
clean up
butt
danger
ball
cup

Georgeous, Daaaahhling!

2006-02-21T14:59:00.000-05:00

When we were in Nanchang, we had these outfits custom made for the kids. Now, clothing that doesn't feature a Duke Boy or at least matches Bubba Jr.'s cowboy boots doesn't sit well with my young man. So getting him to wear this costume required pleading and bribery. If you don't have kids yet, don't laugh at me, laugh with me.

If you get the opportunity to have custom made outfits made for your kids while you're in China DO IT! They are such good quality! I took these pictures on Chinese New Year. NO they did not wear them for dinner. You really think I'm letting food anywhere near these clothes??? I did have them wear the outfits to church. (That cost me a sack o' M&M's as bribery)

Chinese New Year

2006-02-21T13:50:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago we celebrated our first Chinese New Year with Charleigh. We invited some family over and dined on some interesting fare. Partially from recipes, and partially made up. Ok. I'm really not inventive enough to make up recipes. However I am creative enough to find substitute ingredients when I've forgotten to buy the proper ingredients.

For our celebration we had:

Tea Eggs
Szechuan Chicken
Pork filled Steamed Buns
Jasmine Rice
Green Bean Concoction aka Stir Fry Ginger Green Beans
Chinese Chews
Strawberry Cake

We had fun, relived some memories of eating steamed buns in China and laughed at each other trying to eat with chop sticks. I used the rice bowls I bought in Nanchang and the sushi set I bought at Eckerd. (But it was made in China, too.)

Happy Year of the Dog!

Blizzard of '06

2006-02-21T13:34:00.000-05:00

WE'RE ALIVE!

You may have read recent reports of record snow falls in parts of the US. I want my loyal reader (hi Hugh!) to know we have survived the BLIZZARD OF '06!!!!

It took us a week to dig our way out of the house! Below you'll find astonishing pictures of the snow fall at our house.

The wood on the grill is barely visible!

Just look at all the snow! And my children, oh they were so eager to race outside they only allowed their beloved mother to put her house shoes on!

And finally, we decided to build this gigantic snowman.

I've been TAGGED!

2006-01-19T16:09:00.000-05:00

Ok, a friend of mine tagged me with this so I'm up next...

Q. What were you doing ten years ago?
A. Let's see... January 1996.... I was beginning to plan my wedding! I was a Jr. at the University of Georgia and just starting to plan my wedding to Clyde. We were wantin' a *real* fancy shin dig with possum dip and french fries! My dad even sprung for a kegger!

Q. What were you doing one year ago?
A. Thanking God that I was close enough to turning 30 to begin the adoption process!

Q. What are 5 snacks you enjoy?
A. 1. Cheese cubes & olives, 2. Chocolate, 3. Oreos, 4. Chocolate, 5. Potato chips

Q. What are 5 things you would do if you were a millionaire?
A. 1. Pave my gol' durn driveway.
2. Help out some family members.
3. Consider a job closer to home, (the pay would be less.... they don't pay much in my part of Hazzzard County)
4. Sod my back yard.
5. Donate a chunk to my church so they can finally build our Parish Hall.

Q. What are 5 bad habits. (They ask the questions... not me. I only have one bad habit. The other four are made up)
A. 1. Talking loud
2. Picking my skin
3. Reading when I should be cleaning
4. Slouching
5. Being one of those people who drive the speed limit in the fast lane

Q. What are five things you like doing?
A. 1. Playing games with my kids
2. Watching American Idol (is that retarded or what? See I didn't say I made any of these up!)
3. Reading
4. Cooking
5. Not washing dishes

Q. What are five things you would never wear, buy or get new again:
A. 1. Pinch rolled jeans
2. A Nascar T-shirt for myself (kinda goes against my redneck image, but I prefer my halter top and jeans shorts missing the button)
3. Do it yourself leg waxing junk
4. Self tanner
5. A ring on every finger

Q. What are your five favorite toys or games?
A. 1. Hand & Foot (family card game)
2. Wig Out!
3. Polly Pockets (Bubba Jr. loves him some Polly pockets too!) (I'm not worried about his masculinity though... he recently saw a picture of Beyonce and remarked that she had "Really Big XXXX" You can just fill that word in on your own.) (And Clyde is GROUNDED for that one)
4. My MP3 player
5. I forgot the name, but it's this game where you have to fit all your puzzle pieces into their spots before the timer goes off and shoots all your pieces into the air!

OK. So click on one of the four links below and if it leads to YOUR blog.... You've been TAGGED!!

Mystery Link #1
Mystery Link #2
Mystery Link #3
Mystery Link #4
Mystery Link #5

And if it doesn't lead to your blog, well go anyway and make a new friend!

B

Certificate of Citizenship

2006-01-13T17:54:00.000-05:00

This week we received the prized "Certificate of Citenship." Enclosed with the long-awaited certificate is a letter from the President. I think it's something all Americans should read, so along with the picture I'm including the text here:

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

Dear Fellow American:

I am pleased to congratulate you on becoming a United States citizen. You are now a part of a great and blessed Nation. I know your family and friends are proud of you on this special day.

Americans are united across the generations by grand and enduring ideals. The grandest of these ideals is an unfolding promise that everyone belongs, that everyone deserves a chance, and that no insignigicant person was ever born. Our country has never been united by blood or birth or soil. We are bound by principles that move us beyond our backgrounds, lift us above our interests, and teach us what it means to be citizens. Every citizen must uphold these principles. And every new citizen, by embraving these ideals, makes our country more, not less, American.

As you begin to participate fully in our democracy, remember that what you do is as important as anything the government does. I ask you to serve your new Nation, beginning with your neighbor. I ask you to be citizens building communities of service and a Nation of character. Americans are generous and strong and decent not because we believe it ourselves, but because we hold beliefs beyond ourselves. When this spirit of citizenship is missing, no government program can replace it. When this spirit is present, no wrong can stand against it.

Welcome to the joy, responsibility, and freedom of American citizenship. God bless you, and God bless America.

Sincerely,

George W. Bush

Just Cooking!

2006-01-05T13:13:00.000-05:00

I thought this picture was too cute not to post. Charleigh got this apron from the Publix Kids Club.

More pictures!

2006-01-03T21:29:00.000-05:00

Here's a picture of Charleigh in her birthday present from her Auntie M. Her doll is an American Girl Itty Bitty. They have matching pajamas, as you can see! It was a little tough to take these pictures because she went to the doctor this morning and had blood drawn and was given three more shots :( The blood was drawn in her arm, which, until she saw the band-aid when I changed her into her pajamas, she had forgotten entirely. However, once reminded of her "boo-boo OW!" she wanted to talk about rather than smile for the camera. I also wanted to post these pictures to let the cyber world know I do (occasionally) refrain from dolling her hair up in one of her 3 dozen choices of hairbows...

Too cute for words!

At long last....

2006-01-02T23:25:00.000-05:00

A post!

I know, I know... I'm a shmo and I should have posted something, anything, oh about 4 weeks ago.

On December 1st Charleigh celebrated her third birthday. Since we hadn't been home very long, and just got over the hoopala of Thanksgiving we celebrated her birthday in fairly low-key style. She had a "Bear in the Big Blue House" birthday cake. Not very girly, I know... but at that point it's about all she recognized in the Evil*Mart Birthday cake book. She scored a lot of booty on her birthday including an American girl doll and matching dress for her (from her favorite Auntie M), puzzles and a BIKE! I promise I'll get pictures of that posted sometime this year ;)

Here are two pictures of Charleigh teaching Mama how to smile. She says first you use your two pointer fingers and draw a smiley on your face. Then you say the magic words "Xiao Ru"

and wah lah! A perfect smile every time!

Finally, here are a few pictures from Christmas. Charleigh was thrilled to receive her very own Hummer, as my "girly girl" prefers trains, trucks, cars, remotes and cordless drills to Barbie and her gang...

As far as Charleigh's foot is concerned, we've consulted with a highly regarded Pediatric Orthopedist in the Atlanta area whose first course of action is going to be a brace that will align her foot with her ankle and her knee. We actually have a brace now, but it only aligns her foot to her ankle. It does nothing to correct the fact that often when she walks her feet almost make a letter "T," with her right toes pointing in toward her left foot. We're in the process of having another brace made that will help with that problem. She doesn't mind the brace very much at all, at least not the one she has now. Although twice she's taken it off and put it away on her own recognizance... (Even though if you ask her about her "special shoe" she pats it and says "Only Mama!" meaning only Mama can take it off.... unless her spicy temper/stubbornness is kicking in and then she does what she d@mn well pleases!) Charleigh is growing 'round the middle :) The pants I took to China that fell off her now fit. I think she's gained about 3 pounds. Considering that's 10% of her total body weight, it makes a difference. She talks a lot! Chatters all day in a hodge-podge of English and Mandarin. I just know that some of the words she's trying to say are English but I'm just not getting it... It took her 4 tries this morning to ask me for some cereal... I just couldn't figure out what she was saying! I've thought about trying to record all the things she says and all the things she understands, but it is so numerous to post it all would be insane. Suffice it to say she's catching on most things very well. I'll be heading back to work in about 3 weeks. I find it hard to believe it's been 9 weeks since I left work! Starting next week I'll be easing Charleigh into daycare. OH, excuse me, "KOOL." That's how Charleigh says "School," which she seems to be excited about. OK! So there's an update and I'll try to post again before March ;)

2005-11-26T22:27:00.000-05:00

Hello cyber world!

I wanted to post some pictures from the trip that I hadn't been able to post yet. Also, I wanted to give an update now that we've been home just over a week.

Update first, pictures second. Go ahead and scroll down if you just can't stand it...

We have... one smart little girl! I know, I know... everyone says that. But do you have a two year old who can already sing part of the ABC song, can count out three things and say "One, two, three," can ask for a "drinka," can ask to go "Pah-tee," can find your shoes, her shoes, brother's shoes, baba's shoes, can take things upon request to the garbage can, her room, brother's room or mama's room? How about repeat four word sentances? How about go grab her coat and shoes when you ask her if she wants to go bye-bye? Can find a tissue if her nose is running? How many two year olds do you know who can go all night without any potty mistakes? Go to bed without crying? Sleep through the night? Chase you around the kitchen asking for a "bee-nan-uh! bee-nan-uh!"

We've been home 10 full days... WOW!

She can/will say just about any word you ask her to say. She doesn't know what most of them mean but we're working on it. I am amazed though at just how much she does understand!

Our relationship (mom & daughter) is getting better each day. It was pretty rough at the beginning. I'm not exactly the world's nicest person when I haven't received my fair share of sleep. Although I was expecting it, the lack of sleep/jet lag the first couple of days pushed me close to the brink. I was SO tired and SO frusterated. I was having a lot of trouble (see last post) getting Charleigh to go to bed. If we even went in her room and I started toward the bed she let loose. And the cry she would let loose was just the closest thing to a "bloody murder" scream I have heard in my life.
Tired, frusterated mom + bloody murder screaming in ear = }:(

Fortunately, we were able to get past that through trial and error. In the end, she likes the lights very VERY low (a night light is TOO bright. I end up leaving a bathroom light on and closing her door all the way. The little bit of light that comes through the door cracks is enough. She also likes me to lay on the twin bed, (she sleeps in a toddler bed) but I have to make a lot of noise for a few minutes or she thinks I've left. So I lay down flamboyantly, sing a little nighty-nite song, yawn loudly, toss and turn a few times and then lay quietly and still. She falls asleep pretty quickly. Tonight was less than 10 minutes.

The only dark spot in everything is that Clyde has had to work a lot lately (two reasons, one being we were out for such a long time he's trying to make up the hours, and two is that the nature of the propane business is that as the weather gets cooler, the propane business gets hotter!). As such, he's been gone from the house a lot, often leaving before the kids get up and getting home near to or after bedtime. Charleigh has become less attached/responsive to Clyde as she becomes more attached to me. I think once she realizes that we're a team and we're BOTH her parents all the time their relationship will rebound quickly. I wouldn't say she's attached in the technical sense of the word, to any of us yet. I think she likes us a LOT, but it's not "attachment" yet. And I'm not surprised, just mentioning it because I think it's important not to expect these children to love us on sight, or even shortly thereafter. It's going to take some time, and PROOF in her mind that we will not abandon her or send her away.

Bubba jr. is doing pretty well. He went back to school for a couple of days last week. I think the routine of school was good for him. Charleigh will go to the sameplace Bubba attends pre-k once I go back to work (late January). I think it's really good for Charleigh to see Bubba Jr get dropped off there everyday and picked up every afternoon. We visited her room, but she wasn't very interested in it... yet. I think she'll do well once it's time for her to go. Everyone there was excited to see her. They had seen pictures of her here on the blog so by the time we got home she was already famous ;) In fact I had a woman I swear I've never seen in my life stop me at church and says, "So this is Charleigh! I saw that cute picture with all the hair bows!" Woah, so hello all you people I don't know!! :)

I left Charleigh with a babysitter for the first time. The sitter was my sister, who was excited to be the first to babysit. I left both the kids, I'm sure it helped Charleigh that Bubba Jr. was there, too. I left strict instructions for my sister to call me if Charleigh got upset. My sister said that Charleigh cried quietly for less than 5 minutes right after I left. After that she had a great time with the other kids (My sister had three of her four with her as well as my two!) When I got back Charleigh kind of looked at me like "Oh. It's you. Nice of you to come back, but don't expect applause or anything." But I squatted down and put out my arms and she ran over... Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh :) :) :)

Today we went to the local county park. She had a good time and is definately not shy about playing on the bigger equipment. None of the sissy slides for this girl! In contrast, Bubba Jr is quite the "caution-ist." I think he was four before he would consider going down the biggest slide. The big slide was all Charleigh did today! She also wanted to do this curving ladder thing. I had to draw the line on that one... though I bet by the summer she'll have it mastered.

Well my picture file uploader thing a mah bob is being we-todd-did, so looks like the only picture that's going up tonight is from Adoption Day (11-7). The day after Gotcha we travelled to the civil affairs office to finalize the adoption. It's pretty significant as at the time of gotcha you are just the temporary guardians. After the civil affairs meeting you are PARENTS! This is the entrance to the offices (we're actually on our way out at this point). You go through that elaborate metal door (via a secret passcode your guide knows) and up one level to the offices. First we were led to a holding room, then our guide goes through the paperwork one last time. After that we went to have a "family" photo and a new child's passport photo made. Both of these photos are absolutely hideous... but I guess it's the thought that counts. After the pictures is a brief interview. Why do you want to adopt? Do you like this child? Do you wish to adopt her? After the interview it's time to dole out all that cash I worked so hard to attain. I was frankly happy to be rid of it! And then we're done:

WOOHOO!

We're Home!

2005-11-20T08:31:00.000-05:00

Yes, we're home! I know it's been a while since I posted, but please forgive me :) it's been crazy!

We got home very early on Thursday, about 1:30am. Thanks to a three hour delay leaving Newark... the weather was quite bad (windy and rainy). In fact, coming into Newark there was quite a bit of turbulence and both the kids puked at just about the same time.

Nice.

The flight from Newark to Atlanta was crappy for me. I had the misfortune to move suddlenly in my seat and the movement disrupted the drink on the tray table attached to my seat. The woman behind me went bezerk. She started pushing my chair and yelling at me to put my seat up, and that I should have asked her before I moved my chair in case she had a drink that might spill. (Puh-lease!) Oh, and that she was going to pour a drink over my head. After nearly 30 hours of travelling I was in no mood for these childish antics and immediately hit the button to summon the flight attendant. She said that was a great idea. Apparently she thought they were going to tell me to put my seat up. Too bad for her! They told her they would get her another drink, but that I had the right to recline my seat if I wanted to. This, of course, set her off again and as soon as the flight attendant left she begin kicking my seat. To tell the truth, it felt kind of like a massage chair so I leaned back and payed no attention to her. People like that feed off your reactions, so my lack of further reaction was upsetting to her and finally she stopped.

We spent 16 days away from home and met the rudest people just around the corner. The folks working in Homeland Security in Newark also have a serious power trip going on...

So now that we're home, things are slowly improving. Charleigh's language skills are improving leaps and bounds. Just last night she said Bubba's name, drink, Mamaw, Grams, and Charleigh. One area that's suffered greatly is sleeping. In China she was wonderful about sleeping. Would go down with no problem, sleep all night and get up smiling. Now she screams going to sleep (nap or bedtime) and wakes up several times throughout the night screaming. We're still working to find the right combination of naps/bedtime/potty times etc. She also gets up in a fairly lousy mood. The times in between are great. She and Bubba are getting along pretty well, unless she knocks down his train... then he gets kinda put out.

She clearly still favors dad. I'm good for snot wiping and potty time, but if dad's around I'm obviously second best. Hopefully she'll start liking me better soon, or it's going to be a long 3 months till I go back to work!

I haven't gotten our pictures developed from the trip, still trying to sort out my mail and laundry.

Gotta give a shout out to my best most favorite sister in the world. She drove an hour and a half up to our house on the 16th and stocked my refridgerator and pantry with food. She's the best!!!! She left us sub sandwiches which we scarfed down at 2am on Thursday... :) It was SO nice not to have to worry about what to make for dinner the first couple of nights after we got home. SO THANK YOU SISTER!!! YOU'RE THE BEST!!!

Hope to put up more pictures soon!

B

In Guangzhou

2005-11-13T04:13:00.000-05:00

We've made it to Guangzhou, actually we got here a couple of days ago, but I've not had time to post. Also, I tried to post before leaving Nanchang and the d@ng post wouldn't go and every time I tried to load a picture it errored out....

Anyway.....

I'll try and load some pictures... but no promises :(

Some things about Charleigh:

Mom is okay when it's time to eat.
Dad is best for everything else, especially bed time.
Charleigh is a southpaw! She will sometimes eat with her right hand, but if you hand her a crayon or marker she will always draw left handed.
Charleigh is also very tickelish. She loves it when her dad gets her with the "tickle bug."
She is still loving her hair bows. Although she's ok when I only put in one or two, but she still pulls them out a couple of times a day and makes me redo them (after furiously scratching her head)

We went to the pool today, her first time I believe. She really enjoyed it!

Yesterday she had her medical exam. She passed and weighs 13.5kg (29.75 pounds) and is 98 centimeters tall (which I think is about 39 inches.) She is MUCH taller than I thought she would be. She comes to Brandon's nose!

Bye for now! I will TRY to post again soon!

Day 2 & 3

2005-11-09T04:23:00.000-05:00

Sorry I didn't get a chance to post yesterday, I hope you can understand!

On Tuesday we got up early (Thanks to Bubba Jr. begging to play with his remote controlled car he bought at WALMART Monday night.) Let me tell you, Walmart in Gainesville doesn't hold a candle to Walmart in Nanchang. We went Monday at about 3pm and the place was packed. Our guide, Shirley was with us, so we were able to find the things we needed otherwise we would have been totally lost. We tried in earnest to find a fan. I think Chinese people are allergic to cool air because there are these things that look like fans, but when you look closely they are actually heaters. We attempted then to buy short sleeved clothing, but since it is Winter (the season is determined solely by the date on the calendar, not the outside temperature) they have loads and loads of sweaters for sale. No thanks.

Walmart lived up to all our expectation based on others' adventures there. With one exception... I didn't see any goat for sale. I did see a lot of chickens with their heads still on and other various creatures of unknown species. Since this Walmart is three stories, there is a magnetized escalator that takes you and your buggy down at the same time. You sort of roll your cart on it and the magnets take hold. Once you're on it there is NO moving the cart. It doesn't budge, even if you try :)

I forgot to mention that before we went to Walmart we ate at KFC. We're getting a little tired of hotel food. Clyde is having dreams about ice, and I'd get my left big toe for an iceberg salad...

Tuesday we went to the Teng Wang pavilion. It's been destroyed and rebuilt 28 times. The last was in 1989. Interestingly enough, there was a fire drill going on while we were there...

Big Brother on the stone horse.

DAD! Why do you keep taking my picture? I'm trying to enjoy this historic monument!

Maybe you can see in the picture the kids are wearing outfits I painted before I left. Charleigh's outfit has the Chinese characters for "Mei Mei" or little sister. Bubba's of course has "Ge Ge" or Big Brother. The back has "I (heart) my " and then either Mei Mei on Bubba Jr's or Ge Ge on Charleigh's. I can not TELL you how many people pointed, stared, came over or took pictures. On one floor of the Pavilion we only made it about two steps in because we were over taken my a gaggle of Chinese ladies who ooed and ahhd over the kids. It was pretty cute, though Bubba Jr gets pretty shy so he won't answer their questions even when they ask in English.

After the Teng Wang pavilion we went to a local restaurant. When you walked in you were asked to choose your entree among the many presented at the display case. Among the choices were ducks feet, soft shelled crabs still gurggling at you, and four legged creatures who chase sticks in our country.

We had rice and noodles.

This morning (day 3 with the little princess) we went a visited the orphanage. It's raining buckets here today and we took a maniacal bus ride 1 hour north of Nanchang to the city of Yongxiu. To try and paint a picture using words of the poverty of this small city is absurd. It is just something you have to see. We wound down a small road, used more for foot traffic than automobiles. At the very end, through a small brass colored gate is the Yongxiu Social Welfare Institute. Going through the gate I couldn't hold back a few tears. This is my daughters home. The only one she knows, the only home she has ever known. She has a home waiting for her, but she doesn't know that. All she knows is that she received food and care here, and definitely love. That alone makes a home, no matter if it's loaded with toys, or contains one small cherished backpack.

Charleigh cried very hard when we went into the orphanage, even though our guide had explained to her repeatedly that we were going to say goodbye to her auntie and she was not staying there. Even now I can't really explain why she cried. The first logical reason would be that she was afraid we were taking her back. But when we left, she cried very hard as well. While we were there we were treated very nicely by the staff. They gave us fresh fruit and tea. Charleigh just loves fruit! After we got to the director's office she was an angel. Just as sweet as could be and NO crying. She sat happily on my lap and gave me many smiles. Then we went to the the foster mother. Yongxiu is not set up like any other orphanage in Jiangxi province. I actually don't think it's like in other ANYwhere, but I can't confirm that. Some orphanages are able to foster children out to families in the area. It's very similar to the foster care program in the United States. However, in Yongxiu the foster families live IN the orphanage. Basically you have a mom and a dad and they live in the orphanage in their own rooms and have children in their care. I don't believe they have any biological children, but again I can only confirm that Charleigh's foster my does not have any bio children. The family that Charleigh was in (Family #8) consisted of the mom and dad, Charleigh and four other girls. Three older than Charleigh and one younger. When we visited, the three older girls were all at school and the dad was at work. So we met the foster mom, who clearly loved Charleigh, and the baby. Finding out there was a baby in the family was really no surprise. Whenever Charleigh hears a baby crying she gets a very worried look on her face. She has a lot of empathy, and always notices babies when we're out.

Charleigh's foster mom did us a great service. She got down on Charleigh's level and told her that Clyde and I were her mom and dad, and she was to go with us and be a good girl. The foster mom told Charleigh that we were good and that we would take good care of her and let her go to school. She also told Charleigh that we would probably get her new pens if she was good. At the end she told Charleigh not to cry and to be a good girl. They whole time Charleigh was shaking her head "yes," but looking very sad. Then she (Charleigh) took my hand and we went back to the directors office. At that point we should have left. However, we had gifts to give the director and needed to gather our belonging. Had I know what scene would shortly ensue I would have kept walking and told Clyde to go get our stuff.

Charleigh's foster mom gave her a little Pokemon backpack while we were there. They had so few belongings that I felt guilty taking it. However, it seemed to provide a lot of comfort for Charleigh, so we thanked the foster mom and let Charleigh take it. Now, back to the director's office. After we met the foster mom we went back to Director Cai's office and Charleigh proceeded to pack her bag full with the remaining fruit. She then about faced and hauled you know what back to the foster moms apartment with myself and another lady in hot pursuit. She got back to her foster mom and started taking the fruit out and giving it to her foster mom. When I held out my hand to Charleigh and asked her to take it.... She blew a gasket. I whisked her up and quickly said goodbye. We left amid a torrent of tears and rain.

Since we got back to the hotel, Charleigh's been a different person. She is definitely happier. I think even though it was very emotional going back to the orphanage, it was the right thing to do. She needed that chance to say goodbye. Most of us can relate to a time we had to say goodbye. We had to. We weren't given a choice, and neither was she. But she said goodbye, she was told goodbye and I think she's better off emotionally for it. She's been a lot freer with her smiles, especially to me. Beforehand she would smile beautifully for Bubba Jr and Hannah, but would not open herself up to me that way. She's still not fully convinced we won't leave her, but she's starting to like us now. Things are definitely changing for the better.

Except for going to sleep, and when I can't get it through my big head that she needs to use the potty, she doesn't cry. She will allow me to hold her when she's crying (going to be or nap), which is a good thing. It would be harder if she pushed me away when she was upset.

I'VE CREATED A MONSTER!

I've totally created a hair-bow monster. She insists on wearing all the hair bows I brought.

At the same time:

I actually have a lot more pictures of the hairbows, but for whatever reason the blogger upload isn't working anymore...

Thank you so much to everyone who has sent well wishes to us!! I can't respond to everyone, but thank you so much! It's such a thrill to open up the e-mail and see all the new messages. For those of you who are still waiting to board that plane, you'll be amazed how fast the time goes!

On a funny note, we met a family this morning at breakfast who is from Roswell, GA. That's about an hour from us. Only in this day in age can you travel 8000+ miles and meet your neighbor at breakfast...

In the paperwork arena, we met with the notary today. Tomorrow is a free day with the anticipation of sleeping in and doing some porcelain shopping in the afternoon. :)

Bye for now!!

Adoption Day

2005-11-06T22:37:00.000-05:00

Charleigh slept from about 7:30 pm last night until about 6:30 am this morning. We were really shocked she slept so long!

This morning we took it nice and easy waking her up. She never cried this morning. She looked at us a little like, "yeah, I figured you'd still be here. Ok then."
We let her sleep in her clothes. I figured she would have a fit if I tired to take them off so I left them on. Plus, the outfit is really cute! This morning we left her outfit on, but added little white bows & pigtails. I was very glad I left her in her Gotcha outfit because the orphanage director (Chinese man in the brown shirt in the picture above) was there and I think he was happy to see her in her outfit.

She's definitely taken to Clyde more than me. That's ok. I know it's going to take time for us all to get adjusted. Honestly it's going a lot better than I anticipated. She's done wonderfully today, laughing smiling and having a lot of fun with her big brother.

The pictures are in no particular order, sorry for that.

Oh! She is ABSOLUTELY potty trained. She does a little pee-pee dance and pulls on my clothes when she's ready to go.

In the pictures with the new clothes, they're 3t's. She fits them almost perfectly, though she won't be 3 for a few more weeks.

Off to the infamous Nanchang Walmart!

B

Family of Four!!!!!!!!!

2005-11-06T08:17:00.000-05:00

Well after waiting 570 days, we finally had our GOTCHA day today!

We flew in to Nanchang today, arriving at about 4 pm. We took about a 30 minute bus ride from the airport to the hotel. We found out on the bus ride that they were bringing the children to the hotel rather than having us going to the Civil affairs office.

I don't have a ton of time to write, so please forgive the brevity...

We waited outside the elevator doors while our guide went to the lobby to bring up the orphanage director, the nanny, and of course sweet Ms. Charleigh. Every time the elevator dinged my heart lept into my throat. Finally, the doors slide open and amid a gaggle of adults stood the sweetest little girl I've ever seen. She was wearing a bright yellow couderoy top and pants, a pretty little turtleneck and adorable white Mary Janes. They brought her out to us and Clyde and I tried to approach her smoothly so she wouldn't be too upset. She was very reserved with all these adults swarming around her. I tried some of my Chinese out, she looked at me like she halfway understood, but was wondering if I was really talking to her. The director and nannies definitely understood me!

They gave me a red scarf with handwritten information about Charleigh on it. They also gave her a small present (we haven't opened yet) and a red silk bundle I was told continued earth from outside her orphanage. We did get our camera and photo book back.

When the director and the nanny left they waved goodbye and Charleigh waved back. I'm sure she didn't realize the were actually leaving because when they stepped on the elevator without her she went BEZERK. I was expecting it, so I was ready. I walked her around, talked to her and finally in our room she was pushing me so hard I set her down to see what she would do. She ran right over to the door and was moaning for her "ayi" auntie (nanny). We all sat by the door with her while she wept for the people she missed. She allowed us to touch her, stroke her arms, back and head. After a while she took her shoes off and laid down on the floor. We laid down too and talked quietly to her and I sang the "Mama Hao" song.

And then we did some other stuff which you really don't want to read, I know you would rather I stuck a sock in it and posted the dang pictures already. So here goes:

Bubba Jr. and Charleigh konked out watching Mulan. Charleigh cried for a good 30-45 minutes, pretty hard. No wonder she was tired! In her left hand you can see her shoes she refuses to let anyone else touch, and in her left hand is a green sucker she won't eat, but held on to it.

Closeup - My baby has "Mamaw" hair!

BYE! I'm off to get some SLEEP!

B :)

Beijing, Day 2

2005-11-04T04:24:00.000-05:00

The Great Wall!

Actually, it's day 3 but the first day we spent in a jet-lagged induced stupor so it doesn't really count...

Today we went to the Great Wall, and to quote Big Bird (from Big Bird Goes to China) it's not great, it's Tremendous!

Going up was not too bad, it was coming down that had my legs quivering! The view was fantastic, the pictures don't do it justice.

After the Great Wall we went to a Cloisonne factory. We watched as the workers glued copper wire on copper vases, bowls and other items. Then the entire area is painted several times and fired. The it is sanded twice. Let me just say for the record there is NO OSHA in China...

Tonight we're going to the Hard Rock Cafe for dinner. (Clyde's choice. I guess he's already tired to strange fish deep fried and containing bones. Or it could have been the turkey with peanut butter sauce...) I've been enjoying the food. For example, I didn't know I liked steamed spinach for breakfast. I also really like Jasmine tea and eating with chopsticks is getting easier with each meal.

So long from Beijing!

We're in Beijing!!

2005-11-03T07:01:00.000-05:00

At long last!!! Take me to Beijing!

Bubba Jr. finding the nearest exit on the 777, keeping in mind the nearest exit may be behind him.

Seeing the Marble Boat at the Summer Palace

View from Hotel room. This is during the day. It is SMOGGY here!

I can't believe we're finally here! This post is a little late as we actually arrived yesterday, but with the time change/jet lag we were too tired to do anything let alone try and figure out how to get on the Internet.

Today we went to the Summer Palace. It was really nice as the weather here is GREAT! Highs in the mid 60's. Of course all the Chinese babies we saw were totally covered up. Bubba Jr. had his picture taken numerous times. As soon as we would stop somewhere someone would come over and tug on his shirt so they could have their picture taken with him. The baby in the picture below was just as cute as a button and wearing split pants... if I could have taken a picture I surely would have!

At the Summer Palace I had my first experience with....

The Squatty Potty! EW! Make sure you bring your own TP!

After the Summer Palace we had a traditional Chinese lunch. We ate some meat that was tasty, though I'm not quite sure what it was. Then we had sweet and sour "fish." Which I really think was squid, but that's a fish right? After that came lotus slices marinated in orange juice. I passed on that. Then some spicy chicken (pretty good!) and some Rice (killer) and last egg drop soup. They sure don't make egg drop soup like this in the states!

Bubba Jr drinking Jasmine Tea at lunch. He really liked it! I think he was rolling his eyes at me because every 5 seconds I'm hollering for him to smile for the picture...

After lunch we had a foot massage. Now for those of you who know Clyde, you know foot massages "aint his thang" but he got one too, and I have proof!

(Sorry I don't know how to flip the pictures. Just turn your monitor on its side!)

This is from the Acrobat show. I'm telling you, if you get the chance to see this, DO it's great!

A couple of things about this picture. First off, he IS wearing gold trunks. I know the picture doesn't exactly look "family friendly," but trust me, he's got shorts on. Second, he "jumped" all the way down those little stairs on one hand. When he got to the bottom, he went all the way back up! It was really amazing to see the skills these people had!

Here's H with our guide, Water. He's cute as a button and just about the nicest person I've ever met. He's always saying "We do this, I think it is more better for you!" I never understood why people posted pictures of their guides. Well now I know. When you're 8000+ miles from home, your guide is your new best friend.

Ok, I guess that's all for today. Tomorrow we're going to the Great Wall, shopping and then to have famous Peking Duck for dinner.

Oh, here are some random pictures, from Halloween and such..

This is a blanket & an elephant one of my co-workers MADE for Charleigh. Aren't they beautiful?? The Chinese character on the blanket is "Fu," which means blessing and good fortune.

Hey! There's something in Charleigh's new hamper... only she's not even home yet! What could it be???

Happy Halloween from Batman and Guinevere.

2005-10-30T16:33:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday David

Sunny days seem to hurt the most
Wear the pain like a heavy coat
I feel you everywhere I go
See your smile, I see your face
I hear you laughing in the rain
Still can't believe your gone

(Chorus:)It ain't fair you died to young
Like a story that had just begun
But death tore the pages all away
God knows how I miss you
All the hell that I've been through
Just knowing, no one could take your place
Sometimes I wonder, who you'd be today

Would you see the world
Would you chase your dreams
Settle down with a family
I wonder what would you name your babies
Someday's the sky's so blueI feel like I can talk to you
And I know it might sound crazy

Sunny days seem to hurt the most
I wear the pain like a heavy coat
The only thing that gives me hopeIs
I know, I'll see you again someday

(Lyrics to Kenny Chesney's song "Who You'd Be Today")

I pray you are finally able to do all the things 4-year old boys should... getting dirty, laughing until you can hardly breathe, smiling until you cheeks hurt...

We love you, little boy!

Official Itinerary

2005-10-14T16:17:00.000-04:00

Here's our official itinerary:

Nov 1 - Leave Georgia
Nov 2 - Arrive Beijing, go to Acrobatics show
Nov 3 - Summer Palace & Foot massage
Nov 4 - Great Wall & Cloisonne Factory
Nov 5 - Forbidden City, Tianammen Square
Nov 6 - Temple of Heaven, Fly to Nanchang GOTCHA around 6pm
Nov 7 - Adoption registration, notary & apply for passport
Nov 8 - Tour Teng Wang Villa
Nov 9 - Day trip to YongXiu. See city and if possible the SWI (orphanage).
Nov 10 - Free day!
Nov 11 - Pick up Charleigh's passport in the afternoon, fly to Guangzhou
Nov 12 - Medical exam and shopping on Shamian Island
Nov 13 - River cruise
Nov 14 - Visa appointment, 9am sharp!
Nov 15 - Pick up visa
Nov 16 - On the road again... just can't wait to get on the road again...

Nov 16th also happens to be our 9th wedding anniversary. I think it's going to be so cool to be able to say we were in Hong Kong on our 9th wedding anniversary! However, it's not so cool for Clyde. Why? Because it's the 36 hour wedding anniversary! For most guys, their anniversary lasts 24 hours. 24 hours of "yes, dear" and "would you like more wine" and "I bought these flowers for you" and "let's cuddle." For Clyde, he has 36 hours of "Princess Bonnie" to endure.

Bwahaaa Haaa haaaaa (evil laugh)

B

IT WORKED!

2005-10-13T12:31:00.000-04:00

IT WORKED!!!

I can hardly believe it actually worked!

So all you people who need new $100 bills for your adoption do this:

Tell your bank to call the Federal Reserve at 877-553-9735. The Federal Reserve will explain to your bank how the bank can write a letter explaining that they need however many new $100 bills for INTERNATIONAL ADOPTION and the FR will honor their request.

My bank did it, and it worked beautifully! I'm now the proud owner of 50 brand new, uncirculated $100 bills.

So there you go! Problem solved.

B (Leaving in 452 hours.)

Notice of Coming To China AKA: travel approval

2005-10-09T16:33:00.000-04:00

2005-10-05T10:54:00.000-04:00

This is what happens when one-half of the marriage team is computer savvy, and the other is not. Maybe Clyde will learn how to post pictures and then he'll post hideous ones of me? That would not be good. (Not that I'm hideous or anything, imho)

So this is a picture from our celebratory "Getting a Consulate Date" dinner. I'm glad we weren't supposed to be taking pictures for our dossier!

YOWZA!!!!!!!!

2005-09-30T13:18:00.000-04:00

Our consulate appointment has been confirmed!!!!!!!

We'll leave Atlanta on 11-1, GOTCHA is 11-6 and Consulate date is 11-14 at 9:oo am.

WOOHOOOOOOOOOOO

OH NO! Where the flip is my to-do list????? I'm Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay behind!

B

So many things to say....

2005-09-29T14:44:00.000-04:00

I really wanted to post about Peanut butter. I have had a serious revelation involving peanut butter.

I really wanted to talk about the fears a mother has knowing her child is going on his first school field trip. Riding a bus. Away from me. Without me.

I really wanted to talk about the great time we had last weekend meeting up with Lisa and Eammon at the Classic Gourmet Chinese restaurant.

I also really wanted to talk about my horrific experience with the most incompetent lawyer I have ever met. (Suffice to say we can NOT check "Revise Wills" off our adoption list quite yet...)

However, as much as I want to talk about those things (and likely I will soon enough) I want to talk about the fortune I received with my Spicy Orange Beef lunch today.

It says:

The seeds of an idea you planted long ago are about to blossom.

How apropos.

Here's the story I'm going to tell. Why? Because it's time. The other stories will just have to wait.

[scene] Bonnie, Clyde and Bubba Jr. playing games at the kitchen table. It's Wednesday. Game night. No TV. No reading (until time for bed) No going anywhere. It's dusk outside. Through the kitchen window I can see the sun setting into the North Georgia mountains. It's 7:45. I'm happy as a clam because I've won Wig Out! 3 times in a row. This after Bubba Jr. had informed me that he was going to "kick my butt tonight."

Then... the phone rings.

It's 7:49. Clyde goes to answer the phone. "Hello?" he says. "May I ask who's speaking?" (I'm thinking for the love of pete I hope it's not Earthlink. They call 8000 times a week.)

"This is he" Clyde goes on to say. Whew, thinks I. I am off the hook. He can deal with the telemarketer whilst I finish off the moonpie (aka Bubba Jr.).

"Well that's good news. That's REALLY good news." Comes Clyde's voice from the living room.

NO.FRE@KING.WAY.

My heart is racing. I jump up from the kitchen table to see the clock. What time is it in Utah????? If it's 7:55 here, it's 5:55 there. Could the agency still be in the office? Could it be the agency? NO there's no way! We're only at day 70 and the last group waited 90+ days.

With hope in my heart, and my hands already shaking I race to the living room and one look at Clyde's faces tells me everything I need to know.

OUR TRAVEL APPROVAL HAS ARRIVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My hands are shaking and I'm grabbing for the phone. It makes no difference that Clyde is talking on it.

"We're hoping for a consulate date of Nov 14." I hear the agency angel telling us. No, no NO this has to be a dream! It's not my turn! I'm not ready, well I'm ready but I'm scared. Are you sure???

All those plans we've been making since April 15 2004 are coming together. You might say our labors have blossomed, and to the best of my calculations, will bear our precious fruit on November 6, 2005.

B

I'm pretty sure if the CCAA reads this post, I'm toast.

2005-09-12T13:24:00.000-04:00

BAD MOM.

That's me. It started innocently enough. I thought I was being a good mom. But as the story unfolds you will see the truth.

*Scene* Beautiful Sunday afternoon in the North Georgia Mountains. We've been to church and prayed for the victims, survivors and heros from both 9-11 and Katrina, and we've put Charleigh in His care until the CCAA coughs up a travel approval. We've been to Moes , mostly because I still have a bunch of freebie coupons, oh and I'm in love with Fat Sam. So our hearts are full, bellies full, and we've headed home to enjoy the afternoon. That's where the trouble begins....

Bubba, "MOM! Can I play on the slip and slide???? PLEASE????? please please
please?????"
Me, "Sure. Ok."

Bubba slips and slides for nearly 2 hours. All the while I'm detailing my car, chatting with my dad, watching all the "WATCH THIS MOM!!!!!!!" 's that Bubba is hollering my way. Finally, I think it's time to be done with the slip and slide and call Bubba over. He runs over, happy as can be and that's when I notice... His entire upper body and thighs are covered with hives. He looks like

Well. He's hideous. Only in the illustration above one little section is inflamed. Bubba is covered. I freak. In this one moment I clearly remember the allergy test that was done about 2 months ago. Bubba is allergic to cats and

GRASS

HELLO??????

Is there anything between my ears or what? So I race inside knowing I have a prescription (not filled) for some kids allergy medicine, which when I received I tossed it to the side muttering, "Grass?? He's never had any problem with grass before. Heh!" Miracle upon miracles I find the prescription and race to that gigantic store that has everything from underwear to motor oil, pine nuts to MP3 players. We are literally running in the store. It's Sunday evening and if I can't get this dang prescription filled we're in trouble... We make it to the pharmacy with I'mnotkiddingyou like 3 minutes to spare. They weren't going to fill the prescription but the pharmacist took one look and him and visibly recoiled. Asked me what had happened and when I told her she filled the script. Lucky us!!! So of course I tear the package open and make him take the pill right there in the store.

We make our way home again and once there I feel Bubba should take a bath to cleanse his skin. By now the medicine is making him a little drowsy... so we do a quick sponge down and then Mr. Idon'tneedyourhelp attempts to get out of the tub. Slippery drowsy child + wet bathroom floor = disaster #2. His poor little body, which has already been through enough, goes spinning wildly out of control until his shoulder makes direct contact with the rim of the toilet. All systems are officially down.

So now he's bruised, hurt, hivey, wet and cold sobbing his little heart out in my lap on the wet bathroom floor. If there was a crying icon it would go here --->

Eventually we checked everything out and when we made sure his nose picking finger was ok we headed off to find pj's and put a stopper in this cruddy day. Three books later and one half awake goodnight kiss my sweet baby was finally getting some rest. I, on the other hand, went to check him every 30 minutes or so for a l-o-n-g time to make sure the hives were going down.

I'm happy to report that this morning the hives were gone. He was, however, the proud owner of one very ugly bruise on his shoulder blade.

Bonnie-boohoo-please don't turn me in for inadequate mom-ness : (

Just when I thought I was holding down my excitement...

2005-09-08T14:38:00.000-04:00

Well I thought I was doing pretty good holding down my excitement... However, with a LID of 7/20 and a posting yesterday on the Waiting Children China yahoo group for a TA for someone with a LID of 7/11.... I'm starting to do the happy dance. If not in body, most certainly in spirit.

So 7/11... rock on! Ok. Now I'm excited!! And I know, I know... I shouldn't be. There are folks just like me who have waiting 12+ weeks for their TA. Yesterday we passed the 7 week mark. So we could get our TA anytime from next week to over a month from now! But actually seeing a TA for 7/11 has got my blood racing and my nesting instincts flared. Last night I sat down and watched the Becky Nee video and made a three page list of all the things she recommended bringing. I totally wiped out my medicine cabinet and have officially packed everything in the diaper bag. I told Clyde that if he needed pepto bismal, immodium, tums, tylenol, neosporin, benedryl, bandaids, motrin, hydrocortisone cream, the thermometer, cough syrup, cold medicine, or chloroseptic strips that he will just have to tough it out until we leave.

I also pack hair bows, pony tail holders and hair clips. Now that the essentials are packed I can rest a little easier.

I am trying to be organized. I have a list of 90 things to do (one a day for the last 3 months of the wait. Got it courtesy of WCC also). Unfortunately, I think we're somewhere around 54 days to go and I found the list yesterday. I have a lot of things to catch up on! It's a great list though, here are some examples:

Day 65: Get wills made or updated. (Not that I'm being critical or anything, but we've been working on this one for a month. Anyone know where you can get a will done in one day?)

Day 63: Arrange to get new $100 bills. (IMHO you should really start this on day 90 and follow up with your bank every 24 hours or so.)

Day 58: Work on preparing child's room. (Ok, come on. Has anyone out there really waited until you had less than 2 months to go to start your child's room??)

Day 54 (today): Childproof house. (I've done 1/2 of this... Clyde is supposed to be putting the latches on the kitchen cabinets. Only he started the project, promptly broke the front off our silver-wear drawer, cursed in disgust and abandoned the project. Likely (eventually) I will glue or duct tape it back on. eventually. Maybe today since it's childproofing day? Hey, I've got a great idea. Bubba will love this. I'll just ask Bubba to wreak havoc in the house and then I can get a first hand look at where our childproofing "opportunities" are!)

Day 23: Get Visa. Can't WAIT for this one!!

Day 13: Check out this site with tons of great information for American's in Guangzhou. Here's some of the information I hope I don't have to use!

Emergency Number
To report emergencies involving American citizens, such as serious medical problems, deaths, or arrests, please contact the American Citizen Services unit.
Phone:
011-86-20-3884 4410
(8:30 AM 5:30 PM China time)
011-86-20-8121-6077
(after hours duty officer)
E-mail:
GuangzhouACS@state.gov

(monitored during normal business hours, for emergencies such as serious medical problems, deaths, or arrests only)

Day 10: Send all travel info to a friend or relative. Make sure they have all your contact information in each city.

Day 0: BYE BYE!

I have a crap load of things to mark off my list before we go Bye bye... Although, I am pleased to say that I learned to count to 10 in Mandarin and say "please" and "thank you" (Day 90). Bubba doesn't care so much for that since now if he's in trouble instead of hearing, "That's One. That's Two!" He gets, "That's Yi. That's Er!" He rarely makes it to three (san) thanks to this little magical wonderful book on discipline.

Well, I've abandoned my work long enough.

So if I've told you yi time, I've told you a qian times, qing come back now, ya hear?
TRANSLATED
So if I've told you one time, I've told you a thousand times, please come back now, ya hear?

Xie xie, Thank you,

Bonnie Me!

I'm cute! Pick Me!!

2005-08-30T16:26:00.000-04:00

We are moving on up. We recently got a "Moe's" in North Georgia. For those unfamiliar with the mouth-watering experience of Moe's, it start with being hollered at when you walk in the door. Hey, this is the south. So anyway you get a great big "Welcome to Moe's!" which you would have heard if you clicked the link above.

Anyway, it's a sort of funky Mexi-American restaurant that's set up sort of like subway. You go through the line and order things like:

The Homewrecker
The Ugly Naked Guy
Sherman Klump
or my personal favorite, the Close Talker.

It's true the first time you say "I'd like an ugly naked guy to go please" ya feel sorta strange... but the guy next to you is ordering a Village Idiot and a Ruprict, so you're in good company.

In the midst of the tornadoes in Georgia yesterday, Clyde and I decided it would be great fun to go out to dinner. In the rain. In the tornados. We once went to Zaxbys in a hurricane. Yeah, I know. I need more interesting things to do on a regular basis so I'm not forced to chase meteorological events when they occur.

So after dinner there's a fish bowl (sans fish of course. If you want a fish order the Fat Sam with tofu and pretends it's fish) and entry forms for their contest to win a prize. So I entered little Bubba. On the outside of the entry form I wrote "I'm cute! Pick me!!" It never hurts to add a little zest to your plea.

This afternoon I received this e-mail:

Dear Bubba Jr.,

OK, I picked you!

Please have your parents come by and claim your prize. Our prizes do not come in K5 sizes, so you may have to wait until you're a teenager to wear it. I'm sure your parents will not mind wearing it until then.

I can be reached at 123-1234 or at Moe's @ 567-7890 MOES (6637).

Ray Stewart
Director of Food Service
Moe's Southwest Grill

COOL! So my youngin will be sportin' a Moe's T-shirt. I'll try and post a picture... if I can ever get my flip&en camera fixed!

B

Thoughts, please!

2005-08-30T09:29:00.000-04:00

This morning on the way to pre-k by almost 5 year old asked me

Mom, why did God choose not to make me a dog?

Come again?

Back to the money issue...

2005-08-30T09:23:00.000-04:00

So I mentioned a while back that I was having a little trouble with the local banks saving money for the adoption fees. True enough, I wouldn't tell the fancy bank what it was for because the "manager" was acting like a gum-chewing used car salesman. Anyway, I went yesterday to "check" on the one bank that is saving money and guess what!

THEY HADN'T EVEN STARTED!

HELLO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So fine. I'm an enterprising young woman who likes to leave nothing to chance. So this morning I called the Federal Reserve Bank in Atlanta. The first person I talked to (and yes I told them WHY I need the money... but come on, they're THE Federal Reserve!) said that she was sure they would tell me that I couldn't come get new bills from them but she could transfer me (those words should be expunged from the dictionary!) to Customer Service. So I get transferred and I tell my story and ask if there's a way I can come down and pick up money or have it sent to my bank or what, HELP! And she says:

We see this all the time. International Adoption is very common and we know that other countries require new or nearly new bills. Your bank simply needs to write a letter stating that they need new bills for International Adoption and we will send them what they ask for. It is important that they indicate it's for International Adoption. When we get the letter we will send the money to your bank and you can pick it up there.

Well I'll be darned! And my bank (and every other bank) said they couldn't do it! So to all of you out there not to the money gathering stage, keep this in mind!
Your bank CAN request money from the Federal Reserve on your behalf!
B

OT. I finally did it!

2005-08-24T14:17:00.000-04:00

Okay, for those unfamiliar, "OT" means "Off Topic." I say this post is off topic b/c the purpose of this blog is to chronicle the adoption of Princess Charleigh. However, I do and frequently talk about moi.

So, my company pays for all employees to access the Athletic Center of the college next door. Have I ever made use of this? Nooooo. Of course not!

Complaint about exercise:

It's too expensive to join a gym. This is FREE.
It's too time consuming. It takes 3.5 minutes to get there.
It's not fun.

So I tried it today. Thunder thighs in stretch shorts. Not pretty.

But then....

Okay. This is the part that's going to get me in trouble. This gym is at a college. With college guys. All lifting weights, and bulging muscles, and... and...

Ok. That's enough! I'm a happily married old lady who's expecting!

But I've still got eyes....

B

And a good time was had by all

2005-08-22T09:20:00.000-04:00

This past weekend we were invited to a potluck dinner by a fellow blogger. We had a Fantastic time and I so enjoyed meeting couples who were going through the same trials and tribulations we were. It was also great to be around folks who knew the adoption lingo.

We are planning for a get together again in September. This time we're thinking we'll bring all our kids. Should be a very interesting evening... and to protect the sanity of all these waiting parents we'll be having the next shin-dig at a lucky local restaurant instead of someone's house.

So check out the photos from Lisa's blog. Clyde and I are both in the pictures... We also met this couple who are expecting their referral in October, wooohoo!

B

Getting a head start on the dough

2005-08-18T09:56:00.000-04:00

well, trying to anyway...

Since we're about 12 weeks away from travel I decided it was time to get
serious about the $100 bill issue. There's a pretty bank in front of my
office building with a fancy name, like something off of Monopoly. Anyway,
I don't "bank" at this bank, but I figured since it was close I'd see if they'd
save bills for me. I walk in and there's NO one at the teller desk.
I look over to the right and there's two gals whispering excitedly. Looks
like gossip to me, but what do I know.

Finally one worker decides to acknowledge my presence (there isn't another
customer in sight) she plops herself down into her chair and asks how she can
help me (riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight.) Never asks me to have a seat. I suppose I
could have sat down, uninvited, after all I am the customer, but as a
matter of pride I remain standing during our brief, but in my mind, comical
conversation.

Her "How can I help you"
Me "I'd like to know if you can order money from the Federal Reserve" (Ok, I
KNOW the answer to this is NO, at least it's been no at the other banks
I've tried, but hey, this bank has a fancy 5th Avenue-ish name and maybe they've
got some pull even though they're officially located in the Chicken Capital of
the World.)
Her "What do you mean, like coins?"
Me "No, I need new bills."
Her "What do you need them for."
WHAT DOES IT MATTER?
Me "I'm sorry, I don't see how that's relevant. Can you order bills or not?"
Her "Um, I don't know. You'll have to talk to the teller manager and she's at lunch."
Me "Well do you get new or nearly new $100 bills regularly?"
Her "No, I don't think so. We don't have much retail business."
Hell, I don't think they have much any kind of business. I'm still the only
customer in the place.
Her "Oh, here she comes now."
New Her "How can I help you?"
Me " I'd like to know if you can order bills from the Federal Reserve."
New Her "Oh no, we just get what they send us."
Me "Well can you save new bills for someone?"
New Her "What do you want them for?"
Okay, come on. Am I being a snot here or what? What business reason is there to know what I'm going to use the money for? To me, it's just nosiness. If I were to ask to cash a check at my bank for $5 k, would they ask me what I was going to do with the money? I just don't think it's their business! moving on...
Me "I'm not trying to be rude, I just don't see how it matters what I'm going to do with the money."
New Her "Well do you have an account with us"
Me "No, but I'd open an account if I knew you could get the money I needed."
New Her "Well if you were a customer we could hold money for you, but we
couldn't promise you a certain amount of money. We'd only have what we'd
have."

At this point, I feel a bit like the duck in the Aflac commercial when the
guy says, "And they give you cash, which is just as good as money!"

GOODBYE AND THANKS FOR NOTHING.

So I've got a grand total of ONE bank saving money for me, and the fear here is the lady saving the money gets canned or runs off to Swaziland before it's time to pick up the dough. In which case the conversation would go something like:

"Hello. My name is Bonnie Buttercup and I'm here to pick up the money Ms. Runaway was holding for me."

Them "Oh, I'm sorry. Ms. Runaway is no longer an employee here."

Me "Well she was saving new bills for me and I need to pick those bills up."

Them "Well I don't know anything about that, and I don't see any bills being held here"

later from the adoption agency...

"Dear Bonnie, I just received this from the CCAA, what does it mean?"

"The CCAA regrets to inform you that your recent
incident at the Bank of Chickenland has voided your recently issued Travel Approval. We wish you the best of luck in the Georgia Chicken-penitentiary.

Regards,
CCAA"

2 for 1 Mailbox Special!

2005-08-16T13:47:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we got a 2-for-1 mailbox special!

#1) We received, after losing pretty much all hope, our fabulous "Brown Envelope" from Guangzhou! For those of you not up on your adoption lingo-phrases, the brown envelope comes from the US Consulate in Guangzhou and basically says:

"BCIS has notified us that they have approved you for International
Adoption. We look forward to seeing you and your child in our office in Guangzhou."

Ok. So someone out there will say, "Heavens no! That is NOT what it says." Ok, maybe the wording is off (I don't have the paper handy) but the essence is the same! So, we're one more tiny step closer as the Consulate is eagerly awaiting our presence. Makes it kinda sound like we're going to be presented to the Queen. Better shine the old tiara. I had been using it as a backscratch, you know, living in the hills you have to make do.

#2) We received a packet from agency with all the original pictures of Charleigh from China. They are the originals of the ones I posted the other day. They're so clear and I can see her little face! We also got original medical reports with the "official" red stamp on them and the examiners signature. Very cool! I'm glad to have these things for her lifebook.

So, how bout some 2-for-1 TA's?

More pictures

2005-08-09T16:16:00.000-04:00

I thought I would take some of this forced downtime to upload the rest of the pictures I have of Charleigh.

This is a copy of Charleigh's "Finding Ad." We are SO lucky to have this tiny photo of our precious daughter. When we travel to pick Charleigh up, I will ask for the original photo. I've heard sometimes the SWI will give it to the parents. But sometimes they won't, or they don't have it anymore. The Ad reads" Jiang Yong Yue, Female, Born 12 /1/2002 found 12/6/2002. She has a small, pleasing, lovely face." I admit, I must agree! We used this service to obtain her finding ad. I highly recommend him!

This next photo I estimate to be taken some time last summer. In which case Ms. Charleigh would have been somewhere around 18-20 months old. Notice her cute Osh Kosh Jumper?? The members of the Yongxiu yahoo group I belong to, (who have all adopted from Yongxiu SWI) are quite dedicated to sending clothing and other needed supplies back to Yongxiu. Likely this darling jumper (and the majority of the clothing in the photos that follow) were donated by adoptive parents.

I also believe this picture was taken last summer. After all the hoopalah over the "clothing police" I couldn't get over this photo! There she is, cool as a cucumber hanging out. Sweet little sandals and onsie.

I just love the background of these photos. I mean, can you imagine looking out your living room window and seeing the Yangtze River with it's luscious vegetation and beautiful architecture? And take a look at the walkway there, just glorious in it's detail.

And now winter comes to the Jiangxi Province. Charleigh has finally been properly clothed, her nannies must have gotten a talking to from the CP.

I absolutely LOVE the cowboy boots she's wearing in this picture. I don't know why. They make me smile, it makes it seem "realer" somehow. I fully intend to ask for those boots. I don't know how yet. I will buy a suitcase of new shoes to donate if I have to. But I want those boots!!

So if this was taken this past winter, I'm thinking she was just turning two. So HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETIE PIE!!!

This is probably the newest picture I have of Charleigh. Her last update was done in March. Another dolly outfit. The only thing missing is pigtails tied with pink ribbon.

She's still wearing those cowboy boots. Y'all say a little prayer we're able to bring those home with us. This is the first picture I ever saw of Charleigh and it's the one that still melts my heart like no other. The gorgeous scenery, the picturesque river, and most importantly one little girl 10,000 miles away who needs her mommy to come get her!

Mommy loves you baby girl, we're coming as fast as we can!

My baby, all grown up!

2005-08-05T13:23:00.000-04:00

(or so he thinks)

Today marks an occasion that little Bubba Jr. has been waiting a 4-year eternity for. This morning I dropped our little moonpie at PRE-K. No tears were involved, thankfully! He looked so grown up in his backpack. I'll try and get some pictures posted, had to use an old-timey 35 mm camera because our digital camera's battery died this morning! I'll be bringing 2 extra batteries with us to China, thank-you-very-much!

B

Ohhhhhh!! All the babies!!!

2005-07-30T18:57:00.000-04:00

I just can't contain the happiness I'm feeling seeing all these referrals. Especially for some of my internet buddies who I've been talking to for close to a year!

A big huge CONGRATULATIONS to all the new parents!!!!!

xoxo-

B

I lost ANOTHER bet!!!!!!!!!!

2005-07-28T13:13:00.000-04:00

What's the deal, pickle???

Happily, I announce that we officially have a Log In Date!!!!!!!!!!!!! (and Clyde has won yet another bet. First 171, then DTC, and now LID! Why can't he be as on the mark in other aspects of his life... like, "Hon, I'm going over to a buddy's house. Be back in a few minutes... hours later....)

HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!
What does this mean? Well according to the well documented statistics, we should receive our Travel Approval in 67.44 days, which will be ((drumroll)) Clyde's 34th birthday, September 25th! (Thanks to the folks at WCC who tirelessly keep up with all these crazy stats and crazier a-parents!) It's nice to have an "official" Log in date. At least we know where to start the counting!

There are a lot of referrals coming on the message boards today. It looks like the stork has finally arrived in the USA! It's so fun to see all the referrals coming in, to see the sweet babies faces and their parents who are just over the moon. There are quite a few mommies on my favorite forum who are due this week... I keep checking back to see if anyone is done pushing!

Bonnie

eye kan due it beacuz eye'm entellegent!

2005-07-27T11:47:00.000-04:00

Alright, that was a little obnoxious... however I'm pleased to announce that I'm finally able to publish pictures. I'm honored to receive this knowledge and would like to thank God for giving my brain the ability to remember something....

Bubba Jr having a great time somewhere.

Charleigh's visa picture. Apparently both of my children love to smile for the camera.

Bubba Jr. after winning a fight with miniature stay puft marshmallow men.

Okay. that's enough pictures for now.... just testing the waters for when we're actually in China... which is only like 111 days from now. That wasn't encouraging... think I'll go eat some chocolate, or beef jerky.

Bonnie

Ahhh... The endless weight....

2005-07-27T11:32:00.000-04:00

I mean WAIT!! Well, okay, probably both.

I know there's a reason to gain weight during pregnancy... but what's up with the pounds piling on this time around??? Anyone else out there having adoption weight gain?

And speaking of weight... the adoption process is a series of hurrying up and waiting for the next thing... right now we're waiting for an LID (Log In Date) the date China officially logs our dossier into their "system." We may never know our LID. We may find out about it 2 months from now. Humpf.

Looks more and more like we'll travel mid-November. It's gonna be cool in Beijing, that's for sure! A little snow is better than 100 degrees for lugging myself up the Great Wall... If we leave around Nov 15th, we should be home before Charleigh's birthday.... that would be fantastic!!!

On another note... my cousin and her husband are seriously considering adoption. They're looking at different programs to see what is right for them. I know it won't be China (due to their ages) but, whichever program they pick I know it will be wonderful because they're both great people!!!

Today's post is brought to you by the letters

2005-07-11T15:10:00.000-04:00

D, T and C!!!

Well it's really happening! Our dossier was sent out Saturday and is on it's way over the big blue Pacific Ocean headed for the glorious city of Beijing. Once there it will be logged in with the CCAA (Chinese Center of Adoption Affairs). Typically this process takes about 3 weeks, though I've seen recently where it's taken 3 days! So we'll plan on 3 weeks and if it's earlier, HOORAY!

So our official DTC date is 7/9/05!

Happy happy happy dance!!!

One more step left!!

2005-07-05T09:41:00.000-04:00

Today I got back to work from a wonderful vacation. For once, it was worth it! While I was gone the Houston Consulate did their thing and waiting for me here was our authenticated 171 and homestudy!!!

So today I will get everything together and send it to our Agency!!!! Since they've been translating as we go our dossier should be sent to China this week!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hooray!!!!

Give me a "P"!! Give me an "A"!! What's that spell?

2005-06-21T16:40:00.000-04:00

PRE-APPROVAL IN CHINESE!!!!!!!

Another wonderful milestone has been reached! Our agency got verbal notification that our PA is on it's way! Hopefully we'll have the document in our hands before too long! Tomorrow our remaining 2 documents go to Houston for authentication. Once we get those back we'll be DTC (Dossier to China)!!! From here the timeline looks like:
(All estimates...)
July 11: Get docs from Houston and turn around to agency
July 12: Agency gets docs
July 15: Docs are double checked and sent to China (DTC date)
Aug 5: LID (Log in Date)
Oct 28: (TA) Travel Approval
Nov 25: Leave for China

These are all (hopefully) very conservative figures. It's important to me that we get our little sweetie before her birthday & Christmas. God willing, we will!

Bonnie (on cloud 9)

Found a friend!

2005-06-20T16:47:00.000-04:00

Today I found a friend for Charleigh! Her name is... well... it's Charleigh!

Here's a link to her blog!

http://www.charleighchat.blogspot.com

Bonnie

Forgot to mention...

2005-06-15T15:23:00.000-04:00

For all those time line watchers, here's our timeline:

3-3-05 - Filed I600A with Atlanta
4-6-05 - Fingerprinted by BCIS
6-4-05 - BCIS received final homestudy
6-14-05 - We received our 171. (6 business days!!! Atlanta ROCKS!!!)

Bonnie

I spy with my little eye...

2005-06-14T15:15:00.000-04:00

OUR 171-H!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well Clyde and I had a bet on when our 171 would come... I'm soooo happy to announce I LOST!! Clyde guessed we'd get it on the 20th and I guessed the 27th. We were both wrong (thankfully!) but Clyde was the closest, so he wins!!

This is the last thing we were waiting for! Now it's time to get the homestudy and 171 certified at the county and state levels, then send to Houston for authentication. We are truely in the last leg of the paperchase!

Also.... congratulations to my fantastic boss and his wife on the birth of their son early this morning!!

Bonnie

My Totally Awesome Employer!!!

2005-06-09T16:38:00.000-04:00

Not only do I have the best boss ever (who doesn't read this or even know it exists to I'm not trying to smooch the ol' buttocks here...) But my company passed an

ADOPTION ASSISTANCE POLICY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Of course, we were doing the adoption regardless, but my company has officially recognized adoption as a legitimate way to grow your family and has responded with a very generous $5,000 reimbursement for expenses!!!!

How cool is that???? What an awesome day!!!!

Homestudy in Hand!

2005-06-06T15:39:00.000-04:00

Well, it's official now! I have a piece of paper I can wield against unruly grandparents!! On Saturday our notarized homestudy arrived in stunningly boring paper envelope. You'd think things like this would arrive in a horse drawn carriage with a juggling act on the side... though I suppose that would only serve to distract you from the REAL event.

Here are the highlights of our homestudy:

"The home was clean at the time of the home visit." Page 3. I can hear a chorus of angels as I write this...
"[Husband] likes how [wife / me] is not afraid to make the day-to-day decisions." Page 6. Well here's a decision for you sweetheart MOW THE LAWN.
"[The parents] appear to be doing a wonderful job raising [our son], who is happy and a well adjusted child." Page 8 HA HA SO THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I HAVE PROOF THAT I'M DOING A GOOD JOB! And it's signed, so that has to mean it's official!
"[The parents] are a happy, family oriented couple who are raising a happy and well mannered son. Their current family life is full of love and happiness." Page 11 "well mannered???" Well, maybe that day!
And finally, "It is with great please that [agency] recommends Bonnie and Clyde for the adoption of a female Asian child, 2 to 4 years in age, from China." Page 11.... Ahhhh music to my ears!

So a copy of this document is off to BCIS... based on this and our fingerprints taken in April they should be able to issue us a 171 fairly quickly. And of course, we have a bet on what day it will come, and secretely I hope Clyde is right!

So long for now-

Bonnie

They have the LOI!!!

2005-05-19T09:18:00.000-04:00

This is a great day in our adoption process! Thanks to the wonders of the Internet we were able to watch our LOI go from Utah, to Tennessee, to Alaska to Beijing and finally to the CCAA. The packet our LOI was in was signed for at 9:58 am local time (May 19th), which is 9:58 pm EST (May 18th) last night. It's really awesome knowing that the Chinese officials now know that we intend to adopt our precious Charleigh and bring her home as soon as possible!

I think we'll have our homestudy fully approved by the end of next week. I am so hoping that our wait for our I171 isn't too long! I've heard good things about the Atlanta BCIS, so I hope we don't have to wait too long!!

I think Bubba Jr. is getting a little tired about all this talk and no action about getting a sister. He's been so excited and involved through this journey, but we've been talking about it now for 13 months and as far as a 4 year old is concerned we might as well be asking him if he wants a horse... He probably thinking "I've said 'yes' I want a sister 1,000 time and still nothing! I wish my mom would either cough up a sister or just ZIP IT."

Since today is "Show and Share" day at his preschool I asked him if he wanted to take a picture of his sister to show. He promptly told me he didn't have a sister and would rather take a train anyway. Hmmmm is this the beginning of sibling rivalry??

Feliz cumpleanos a ME!

2005-04-29T19:54:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't read southern Spanish... It's my birthday!!!

A lot is happening (for once!) though not all of it good... The waiting child that we applied for with our evil agency has been "preliminarily placed" with another family. I guess that's EA's way of saying we're out of luck... or so we thought! Since we were basically kept in the dark about virtually everything related to this waiting child from EA I decided to investigate other agencies (this was a couple of weeks ago). I joined the yahoo group for Children's House International. I had heard good things about their waiting child program. So I joined the group and was able to review the list of all the beautiful children who are waiting for forever families. One little girl stole my heart right away. She's not quite 2 1/2 years old. She has clubfoot in her right foot. Clyde and I reviewed her medical information and today I called CHI and asked them how we go about applying for this particular little girl. What I found out is that since several families are interested in her CHI will do a "petition" for her. That means that each families writes a letter explaining why they think this particular child is meant for their family. The petition will be over on Tuesday May 3rd. At least we know the end date and it gives each family a chance.. it's not like "first come first served " like at EA.... I was really encouraged though because the lady I spoke with at CHI said we had a really good chance with this child. IF we get approved for her we will have to file a "Letter of Intent" or LOI. It's a letter that's sent to China to let them know we want to adopt this specific child. If everything looks good to China they will send a PA or Pre Approval in 6 weeks or so.

I'm trying not to get too attached or get my hopes up in case this doesn't work out. This is the third time we've attempted to be approved for a child... At least we'll know something Tuesday!!

All's done except the Homestudy!

2005-04-08T13:33:00.000-04:00

Today I mailed all of our documents that had been certified by our Sec of State to the Chinese Consulate in Houston for Authentication. They say it takes 7-10 days. Hopefully it won't take too long!

Fingerprinting Day!!

2005-04-06T13:36:00.000-04:00

This morning we had our BCIS fingerprints done in Atlanta. Since our appointment was for 8:00 am we stayed the night at mom's house. The paperwork you get for your fingerprint appointment says under absolutely no circumstances should you appear before your scheduled time or you will be tarred, feathered and hung on P'tree Street as an example for the world to see. It might have said you will be escorted from the building, but the paper isn't with me so you'll just have to take my word for it...

Anyway, our appt was for 8:00 so we get to the office at about 7:40 intending to wait in the car lest we ruin our clothes with tar. When we pulled in though the line was already wrapped around the building! So we rushed over to the line to make sure we got a good spot to stand for 30 minutes. There was a couple in front of us who were there for the same reason: adoption. They had one adopted son already and were going for another. They were going to Guatemala though, not China. We talked to them while we waited, so the time went by pretty quickly. Their son was with them, and boy was he ever cute!

After the line finally started moving, it took us about an hour. We had to wait in 3 different lines where the looked at our ID's, our paperwork and our hands. It was pretty much your typical bureaucrat process. Stand here, sit here, don't move, MOVE to the next line, show me your papers, show me your ID, don't talk, don't breathe on the attendant.

Thank you and we sincerely hope you enjoyed your visit to the Atlanta BCIS.

Final Homestudy Day!

2005-03-30T13:52:00.000-05:00

Well we cleaned like mad and finally had our last homestudy! It went really well. Both the kids (our niece was over) were very good. Shelley even said something about how well behaved they were. Shelley toured the house and then asked us some more questions about where things were located, like the hospital and schools. I made a few finger foods since it was about dinner time when she was there. When it was time for her to go she said goodbye to the kids and told them,"The next time I see you, there'll be a little girl here too!" We are taking that as WE PASSED!!!!!

The things POOP messes up....

2005-03-28T13:59:00.000-05:00

I don't know if there's another family that has had as much poop about poop as we have.

Since we live in the "kuntrie" and are not on a public septic system we had to have our septic tank evaluated for our homestudy. This is as crappy as it sounds. First we had to pay an "evaluation" fee to the county. Then they came out and said they couldn't find the property lines and could we mark them? So we go about trying to mark them as best we can. The county comes back out and says, "Looks like your septic system isn't in code. Code states that your septic tank and fill lines have to be at least 5 feet off your property line." So we're thinking perhaps we put the lines in the wrong place?? If she would just tell us where they needed to be we could save a lot of time (and money as it turns out). No good. So we have to hire a company to come survey our property and stake the lines, goodbye $675 smackers. That takes a while because evidently they don't work in the rain. Eventually they come out and place all their stakes and draw their pretty picture and we should be good to go. Only they've labeled our WELL as our SEPTIC SYSTEM. YUMMY. I thought the water tasted off....

I call the county and they come back out and after at least an hour of looking at the property lines and comparing to the plat and using a pooper tool to locate the fill lines, the county official finally agreed that the fill lines were on our property, but not 5' off the property line. Thank goodness I had "befriended" her because she agreed to sign off on it ONLY because it was for an adoption. If we were trying to sell the house she wouldn't have done it. At least we can get off the subject of the crapper now!