Charmed in China

Kate's First Reconciliation

2009-02-24T08:53:00.006-05:00

Kate is in second grade in Catholic School and she and her classmates had their first reconciliation. Kate sat next to her best friend Isabelle during the short program. It was so beautiful! Then it was time for Kate and Isabelle to sit and wait their turn for their first confession with the priest. They were both nervous. They had been preparing all year in school on memorizing what they were going to say to the priest. They were excited and happy, too! All of a sudden it was Kate's turn to sit with Father Dallas, who was very sweet with Kate. He helped her feel at ease... he asked her questions... (some of which she gave answers that will require me to go to confession next! LOL)... and he gave her a penance and a blessing. It was all very beautiful and meaningful. She got up from her seat and went directly to the altar and kneeled just as she was instructed to do, and said her penance...which was to recite the Our Father and to ask Jesus to help her be more like his mother. Then, she turned around and immediatley looked for me. She was so proud of herself...she had a big smile and was very happy. She went to find her teacher to get her certificate and then she got a hug from her teacher. When she finally returned to me in the pew, she got a big hug and congratulations. She began to watch her best friend, Isabelle, as she sat with Father Dallas and said her first confession. She did an equally lovely job and Kate was proud of Isabelle. Then, Kate leaned over to me and said, "Hey Mama...now I am as fresh as a flower"! And I said, "Yes you are my love!" It was a great evening! As for Kate accidentally ratting me out, I have to do a better job saying grace before dinner, doing prayers at night, and not missing Mass on Sundays! Father Ross, here I come for my confession!! I need to be as fresh as a flower, too! Claire has about two more years to be a stinkweed if she so desires! LOL

May Christ and His Saints stand between you and harm.

Mary and her Son.

Patrick with his staff.

Martin with his mantle.

Brigid with her veil.

Michael with his shield.

And God over all with His strong right hand.

The Oscars!

2009-02-23T08:54:00.008-05:00

Karla, just being Karla, was lucky enough to be invited to go to the Oscars with her good friend from LA who just happened to have an extra ticket! LOL Can you imagine that?? So, I told her that she must send me a photo of any star she happens to come across and in true "Karla fashion", this morning, I received an email entitled, "Brad.jpg"! LOL Sure enough, I opened it and there were Brad and Angie holding hands, walking along the red carpet in what appeared to be very close range to Karla! If any of you in my blog world have had the pleasure of meeting Karla you would know that this is par for the course in her world! LOL Things just happen around Karla. So, I cannot wait until tomorrow when she comes back to Savannah for a little dose of reality/husband & kids, so we can plan a day to sit down over a nice cup of Jasmine tea and discuss all the juicy gossip of her adventures at The Academy Awards! You go girl!

Making Valentines

2009-02-10T09:40:00.004-05:00

On Sunday afternoon, we cleared off the kitchen table and got out the paper, the scissors, the watercolors, the glitter, and the jewels and the girls began to make Valentine's for their classmates. It was lots of fun and the Valentines are precious! Their friends are going to get quite a nice little gift in the form of an old-fashioned, handmade Valentine!

FCC-Savannah Chinese New Year Party

2009-02-10T09:30:00.004-05:00

I think the highlight of the party for me was when Dr. Jean dressed up as a carrot to play a part in an old story popular in countries all over the world, including China. The carrot was so big the farmer could not pull it out of the ground! As always, Dr. Jean was great and gave us all a good laugh! Our Chinese class, taught by Mrs. Lin, also did a wonderful job reciting their parts!

Tiana's Valentine Birthday Party

2009-02-10T09:20:00.005-05:00

Last Friday, we were invited to Tiana's 7th birthday party! Her mommy did a fantastic job making everything beautifully pink! All of the girls had a wonderful time, as always!

Kate the Artist

2009-02-10T09:14:00.002-05:00

When the girls were showing me around their school for Grandparent's Day, they lead me in through back door of the room where the Art Show was on display. Kate's class painted Panda Bears and they were beautiful! But I could not find Kate's panda on the wall with her class. We looked all over and I was disappointed that hers was not there! So we went on to her classroom on the other side of the hall where the front door to the Art Show was and lo and behold there was the most beautiful panda all framed and matted on an art easel by the front door to lure people inside! Kate immediately exclaimed, as if it were nothing, "Mama, here is my panda painting! I wonder why my art teacher put mine in a frame?" Well, that is an easy answer...hers was gorgeous!

Grandparent's Day

2009-02-10T09:09:00.003-05:00

The school had a beautiful day planned for the Grandparents and since we don't have any grandparents in town, I played Grandma and Grandpa for the babies! LOL Kate sand in the choir at Mass and then we had a tour of the school guided by our own children. It was so much fun!

Playing in the Square

2009-02-10T09:07:00.003-05:00

After Kai's birthday party we took the girls to run off some of their energy in the square across the street!

They had so much fun running wild in their pretty dresses!

Quinn-12 Weeks

2009-02-10T09:01:00.003-05:00

Quinn is now 12 weeks old! A whole 3 months! With this he graduated from Puppy Preschool and got to pick a lovey toy from the box along with his other little classmates! All the puppies were so proud of the toy they chose! It was adorable! Quinn also got his first grooming and now he looks like a big boy! It was hard for me to leave him at the groomers because he held on to my neck just like a child when I tried to hand hm over to her. But he did a great job and is looking quite dapper now!

Kai's Birthday Party

2009-02-10T08:48:00.006-05:00

All the lovely little ladies gathered for High Tea at The Gryphon Tea Room to celebrate Kai's 6th birthday! They all wore their fanciest dresses and they had a wonderful time together! The mommies had a great time sipping tea and chatting, as well! Thanks for a great party, Karla! Happy Birthday Kai Kai!

Quinn at 9 weeks old

2009-02-10T08:43:00.002-05:00

Our puppy has added a lot of joy to our home. He is so adorable and we all just love him so much! With that being said, he is also a little devil. He staels stuff from all over the house and takes it to his "playground" which is a blanket he has in my room or the living room rug. Anytime we are missing something all we have to do is look in his playgrounds and there we will find it!

Three Peas in a Pod

2009-01-20T08:10:00.002-05:00

We bought a puppy car seat for Quinn and I put it in the car yesterday between the girls' booster seats! Isn't this a pretty picture? We were on our way to school! Quinn cried and whined at first but then he settles down just fine, as you can see by the second photo. School is only 5 minutes from our house, so this is a great way to break him into travelling in the seat!

Santa Dog

2009-01-07T19:38:00.003-05:00

Well I had to do it...I had to buy that Christmas Santa outfit for Quinn! It was too big on him but he can use it again next year!! Isn't he cute? Julia, my niece, thought he was adorable. She's holding him!

Christmas Eve Mass

2009-01-07T19:29:00.002-05:00

Kate performed in the school choir at Christmas Eve Mass for Children and she wasgreat! It was a beautiful and sweet mass for the families and the children. Our cousins from Miami arrived that day so they were able to come too!

Little Dog Big Appetite

2008-12-30T20:23:00.005-05:00

Our little dog is growing. He went to the vet for his wellness checkup and the doctor said he is a healthy little lad! He was treated for some ear mites and given his puppy shot. He didn't even cry. The girls and I were very proud of him! Tonight our little guy ate roasted chicken, some fresh shredded carrot and some fresh shredded fugi apple mixed together with a handful of Blue puppy food. He was in hog heaven. Pictures are worth a thousand words so you can see for yourself!

Where's my chow, Mama?

I'm watching you!

I get to eat in bed tonight!

Look at what I get for din-din tonight!

Um, um, good!

Yuuuuummmmmyyyyy!!!

Gotta clean my mouth after dinner so I am ready for bed!

Oh Christmas Tree!

2008-12-28T18:33:00.002-05:00

Our tree is beautiful this year. We finally bought a fake tree and it is the cutest fake tree ever! Here are some pictures after Santa came!

The Elf Came...

2008-12-28T18:12:00.003-05:00

Santa sent Kate & Claire one of his elves to watch over them during the month of December. His name is Alabaster Snowball. Each night he hid somewhere around our house and in the morning when the girls woke up they would look for him. They always found him in funny places and he always had a treat for them. On Christmas Eve he made his last visit for the year and he left the girls beautiful Christmas jammies to wear on Christmas morning. Alabaster Snowball was a great guest! See ya next year Alabaster!

PS: If you look closely at the photo you can catch a glimpse of Alabaster Snowball sitting inside the wreath behind the girls!

On the Catwalk...

2008-12-21T12:56:00.006-05:00

Today the girls woke up put on their shorts and went to ride their bikes outside on our street. The weather ooked a itte cloudy but the sun was still peeking through the clouds. After about 20 minutes, some clouds began to roll in...and with them came a howling cold wind, rain and an absolutely wintery sky! The girls dutched their bikes in the front yard and ran for cover! Once inside, I told them that this rain is going to bring very cold weather. So what did they do??? They went into their room and changed into their bikinis and proceeded to play "beach" in the living room. I cracked up! Then, they wanted to "vogue on the catwalk" for me! I had to take a couple of pics! They are too funny! They are really growing up quickly!

The Mighty Quinn

2008-12-18T10:45:00.014-05:00

I made a huge impulse buy yesterday! Picked up the kids from school at 3:00 and promised Kate I would take her shopping to buy something with her tooth fairy money. We drove into the Walmart parking lot and along the side of the store in the grass was a lady selling Miniature Schnauzer puppies!!! The girls wanted to pet them so I said, "OK", which was the beginning of the end. Long story short, we have a new puppy. For about 25 years, I have wanted a little schnauzer! He is the handsomest little runt of the litter. He is a 6-week old salt & pepper schnauzer and he is to die for! Claire named him Quinn, which we all love! He was born on November 4, 2008! He looks very healthy and is beginning to play and enjoy his new surroundings. The girls are in heaven and even kneeled at their bedside together to say a prayer thanking God for their new puppy! Needless to say, we are in puppy heaven and the cats are fine with him, too. (In the photos, he is wearing a little black sweater with an argyle red and grey scarf! He's so little, he gets cold easily so we want to keep him as warm as toast. The biggest thrill to the girls is that I will pick them up at school with the puppy!

A girl and her cat...

2008-12-14T23:11:00.003-05:00

Kate has meltdowns more often these days when things don't go her way. Well, today was one of those days and I knew that she was just plain tired. We had a heck of a week and weekend. Busy, busy, and super busy! So, I suggested she lay down for a nap and she had a cow. So I said well you now must lay down for a nap...double cow!! So, I sat next to her in her bed and she cried and carried on and then in came her cat, Chance. He is the best cat for her because he is just like her. They are two peas in a pod! Whenever he hears her cry he comes to her aid. Today he came in a wedged himself between me and her and just snuggled her and tended to her until she fell asleep. It was so adorable! He calmed her down completely.

Our Advent Wreath

2008-12-14T22:58:00.004-05:00

The girls and I have been celebrating Advent along with school and church this year. We have all learned so much this year. I made a beautiful Advent wreath and it has a very honorary place in the corner of our kitchen next to our fireplace. It sits up on a pedestal table and is surrounded by St. Francis of Assisi and some beautiful pink poinsettias. We lit our third candle tonight and Claire had the honor of doing so. She was the one who remembered that we had to light the pink candle this week! She is so smart. She knows everything. In fact, she is my "go-to" person for sure! Tonight, Claire and I went to see Kate perform with the school/church choir at a very special Advent service. Father came in and sat at the other end of our short pew in front and right in the middle of the service, Claire leaned over and whispered in my ear, "Mama, Father needs a person to sit next to him" and I said, "Do you want to be the person?" And she replied, "Yes!" So, she kind of scooted over half way down the pew towards him and then stopped and looked at me to see if it was ok. Father noticed her and scooted his books over and made a space for her. She sat next to him the rest of the service and held his hand. It was very touching and sweet.

The Nutcracker

2008-12-14T21:03:00.008-05:00

The girls and I try and go to the Nutcracker Ballet every year and this year we saw a beautiful one done by the Columbia City Ballet. The girls were mesmerized the entire time!

We also attended the Sugar Plum Party before the show and it was so much fun. Claire had her picture taken with the Mouse King and both girls met and had their picture taken with the young star of the show.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-14T20:47:00.004-05:00

This year we had Thanksgiving at Karla & Brian's house. The kids had so much fun. I cooked and Karla hosted and it was super fun. The kids all played dress up and had a parade and a show. Here are some pics

Baptism

2008-12-14T12:56:00.008-05:00

In March 2006, the girls were baptized at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Savannah, GA. Kate had just turned 5 and Claire was 2 years 8 months old. I just found a digital card with photos of that very special day. This was an important event for all of us as I was confirmed in the Roman Catholic church on the same day! The Bishop of Savannah, Bishop Kevin J. Boland, baptized my girls, which is not a common occurence, as it was done at the Easter Vigil Mass, when they only baptize and confirm adults because the service is so long. But Monsignor O'Neill obtained special permission from Bishop Boland to baptize my two little ones on the same day I came into the church. Here are some pictures. Pat stood up for them as Godmother and a very special man, Paul Thigpen, stood in for Juan del Sol as their Godfather. Thank you Paul for being my sponsor, as well. You will always hold a very special place in the hearts of our family.

Christmas Cats

2008-12-11T10:28:00.005-05:00

I ask you, what's Christmas without a crew of Christmas cats dressed in little Santa hats????

One of these years, I am going to drug my cats (only kidding!!!) so I can get them altogether for a photo like this for our Christmas cards! This is too funny! All my cats in little Santa hats would make a great photo, don't you think? With the girls behind them in their Santa hats!! Maybe next year we can get it done! But I swear we will need to find a way to drug them just a little so they stay in their place for the photo!!

2008-11-29T00:22:00.001-05:00

2008-11-29T00:06:00.002-05:00

"Start by doing what's necessary, then what's possible and suddenly you are doing the impossible."

The Bakery

2008-11-16T19:12:00.005-05:00

I took the girls to the bakery for a special treat the other day and while we were there a young woman approached me with her camera and asked if she could take some photos of the girls. She was a SCAD student and was doing a photo shoot for the bakery. The cupcakes that the girls wanted had ballerinas on them and she happened to be shooting the ballerina ones, so she took the girls photos too! She sent me the pics today and they are so cute! their hair was really long in the photo but I cut it this weekend and now it is back to normal!!

First Kiss...

2008-11-16T18:22:00.003-05:00

So... this photo was sent to me online from my good friend Kathryn in Seattle. It speaks volumes...don't cha think??? I told Kathryn that when our girls have their first kiss they probably have a better chance of catching something from the boy than a pig!! LOL Anyway, this picture is great for a laugh!!

touch...

2008-11-13T09:56:00.004-05:00

touch soap
touch sponge
touch towel
touch toys
touch car
touch keys
touch sink
touch beds
touch bookbags
touch paper
touch lunchboxes
touch homework
touch clothes
touch fridge
touch cats...

FEEL...the love of my children!

Movies

2008-11-11T00:07:00.005-05:00

Someone asked me to name my favorite movie of all time and I could not! There are too many that I love! I could watch them a million times and never get tired. So, I decided to begin with my top 15 favorite movies in no particular order.
1. Witness : Harrison Ford & Kelly McGillis
2. Notting Hill: Hugh Grant & Julia Roberts
3. Under the Tuscan Sun: Diane Lane
4. Moonstruck: Nicholas Cage & Cher
5. A Good Year: Russell Crow
6. Far & Away: Tom Cruise & Nicole Kidman
7. Grease: John Travolta & Olivia Newton John
8. Big: Tom Hanks
9. Dirty Dancing: Patrick Swayze & Jennifer Gray
10. Baby Boom: Diane Keaton
11. Coal Miner's Daughter: Sissy Spacek & Tommy Lee Jones
12. Forrest Gump: Tom Hanks
13. Romancing the Stone: Michael Douglas & Kathleen Turner
14. French Kiss: Kevin Kline & Meg Ryan
15. When Harry Met Sally: Meg Ryan & Billy Crystal

Bitten

2008-11-07T08:51:00.007-05:00

I have been bitten by the holiday spirit bug today. I feel joyfully excited in anticipation of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. I am actually waiting for Christmas music to begin playing on the radio! Isn't that awful? I used to be irritated at the notion of beginning Christmas and ending Halloween all in the same week! But this year, I am excited to experience everything all at once!!

We made our first fire this year and the girls brought out their baby blankies and a slew of their favorite lovies, dollies, and books. Then, they planted themselves firmly on the floor in front of the kitchen fireplace by the most beautiful crackling little fire! This is when I miss my digital camera the most! I should have it back in the next week or so from Canon's repair office.

In our home, the girls and I will celebrate Thanksgiving and then we will diligently observe Advent, but Christmas will be intertwined in all of that this year, as well. I have completed my Christmas shopping and am glad for it. We are very excited to be spending Thanksgiving Day with our good friends Karla & Brian and their children. Then, the following day Susan & Riz will arrive and we will have a tree trimming party and our Savannah friends will finally get to meet Sophia Rizzo! Then, on Saturday the girls and I are going to see The Nutcracker Ballet downtown. My brother and his family will come for Chirstmas and that will be super fun! We will then make fires in the backyard and let the kids roast marshmallows and drink hot chocolate!! My girls and I are going to have a very wonderful holiday season!

Seven weird and random things about myself...

2008-10-18T23:41:00.003-04:00

1. I hate the word caterpillar....yuk, eeewwww, OMG, I had to type it!!! And the funny thing is, I'm not scared of them, they just give me the shivers to look at or when I hear the word

"cater------". Eeeeeewwwww, I've got head to toe shivers now!

2. I love to sleep in really nice hotels!

3. I can't fall asleep in patterned sheets! They have to be solids or small enough patterns to look like solids.

4. I am addicted to politics on TV and I love elephants! LOL

5. I have a little spot on my foot that has itched for years... for no reason!

6. I actually like the smell of the paper mills here in Savannah...it is not a nice smell but it reminds me of family vacations we used to take when we were little with my parents. When we would drive past Brunswick my dad would always put the windows down and my brothers and I would die from the smell!! My mom and dad would crack up! I still think of them whenever I smell the paper mills.

7. I love to watch The Waltons!!!

Summer Daze...

2008-07-26T17:44:00.003-04:00

Summer is more than half way over and before you know it the children will be back in school and fall will be sneaking in. The girls and I have had a lot of summer fun with trips to the beach, swims in the pool, picnics, BBQs, and lots of family gatherings. I was thinking about summers when I was a child and all of the great memories I have of those days gone by. If I were to list 10 things that signify summer to me whenI was growing up in Miami they would be...

1. Driving over the bridge to Crandon Park.
2. The smell of Sea & Ski and Coppertone Lotion.
3. Spending weekends at The Becker's house in the Keyes.
4. Going out in the boat.
5. Fishing off the boat and crying whenever I caught one until my dad unhooked it and threw it back in the water.
6. Debbie and I riding our bikes to Matheson Hammock Beach.
7. Playing in the sprinklers.
8. Pool hopping from Kristin's to Valerie's to our pool all summer, in a pack of kids and we all lived in our swimsuits.
9. Riding our bikes to see the fun shows at Suniland Movie theaters on Wednesdays.We had to get a coupon out of the newspaper each week for the shows and all the kids went. You got popcorn and little toys. I remember the rubber bats on strings! LOL
10. Hanging out at my dad's office with my mom while she worked! Going down the street to get cafe con leches and pastelitos for she and I.

Summer is the best! We are going to finish ours up by travelling to Charleston to see Patty Poo and then to Asheville to see Grandma Mavis, Mike & Linda!! The girls can't wait to catch fireflies in their yard and play "roll down the hill and piggy back" with Uncle Mike!

TAG SUSAN R & CHERI H.... 10 things that remind you of summer!!

Classic David Cook

2008-06-27T00:48:00.002-04:00

This is a beautiful and classic David Cook rendition of "My Hero" by Foo Fighters. Enjoy! Remember to turn off the blog music before watching the video!

Music, Children, Kapell and a Wolf...

2008-05-16T13:44:00.004-04:00

If you are interested in your child getting a fully rounded education, then you must do some homeschooling so as not to miss out on a world of knowledge and exploration of the arts and culture in our world. In general, culture and the arts are rapidly disappearing from our school curriculums in recent years. What isn't taught at school must be taught at home. Because music appreciation has all but been forgotten in the schools these days, I have taken it upon myself to teach my girls as much as I can.

The lesson I have been teaching my children is to listen to music as it can tell a story even when there are no words. The different instruments create certain pictures in your head and you let your imagination do the rest. You can color the pictures on paper as you hear them and visualize them through the music and you can create stories just for fun! Very much like in Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf. My girls love the version narrated by Dom DeLuise. There is also a beautiful version with David Bowie that you can download on iTunes. The story is available online. Teach your children about all kinds of music from all over the world. Exposing them to the sounds around the world will open their eyes and their hearts to other cultures and broaden their horizons immeasurably!

This past week, we have been learning about a brilliant American composer who died tragically and unexpectedly in an airplane crash in the prime of his life. His name was William Kapell. He was born in New York City in 1922. He was a child prodigy who won his first competition at the age of 10. By the late 40's, he had toured the US, Canada, Europe, & Australia to immense acclaim and was widely considered the most brilliant of young American pianists. He married in 1947 and had two children. On October 22, he played his last concert in Australia and on October 29, 1953 his plane, returning home from that final concert, crashed into Kings Mountain just so uth of San Francisco.

Elated!

2008-05-02T14:05:00.002-04:00

I just got a call from my dearest friends Susan & Riz and they have been officially notified that their baby's referral has arrived at the adoption agency in the US! They don't know much except that the babies who arrived in this group are about 10 months old and are all from the Jiangxi province, same as my Claire! They were also told that there are twin girls in this group!!! So, I know that Susan & Riz and our other good friends Jonathan and Susan in Atlanta both asked for twins. I am so excited for the four of you and I am sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for "my call"! LOL I want to see the babies!!!

I dedicated the first four songs on my blog music to you all! Tears of joy for the four of you! God is good!

Blazing...

2008-05-02T13:15:00.002-04:00

American Idol's David Cook keeps uping the anti. He is an incredible artist with a natural talent that is amazing. He has been my favorite from the get go and I think Paula may have finally gotten one thing right this past week and that is when she said she is looking at the next American Idol. Here in this video David performs an awesome rendition of a most beautiful Neil Diamond song called "All I Really Need is You". I have loved this song for 25 years!!! And now I love it even more! Good luck David! As I said in my last David post, I'll buy anything you're selling!

Susan's Baby Shower

2008-04-27T18:53:00.003-04:00

The girls and I drove down to Florida for Susan & Riz's baby shower this weekend! We had so much fun and what a fantastic baby shower they had!! Sophia is not going to need anything except the loving arms of her mommy and daddy! I was so excited to see Mr. & Mrs. Hilton and Sharon who are waiting for their babies, too! We had a great time! Susan's cake and cupcakes were darling! She will have to post some pics on her blog! They were all about sunflowers and ladybugs!! Thanks for inviting us Susan & Riz! We love you guys!

The Holy Father's Visit

2008-04-19T12:11:00.003-04:00

As I watch the ongoing LIVE coverage of The Papal Visit, I realize that America has given its heart, and its mind, to the message of this Pope. It is evident in the warm and respectful reports from the media, and in the enthusiastic responses from all the diverse groups who encounter his quiet, humble, holy presence. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching this Pope throughout his travels in our country. Perhaps he will act as a reminder to all of us as to the things that are truly important in our country. Peace, humility, prayer, and forgiveness.

The United States of America,in great time of need, has been blessed from heaven. Benedict, the quiet, humble, and Holy One has come to proclaim Good News.

I'll Buy Whatever He's Selling...

2008-04-17T19:17:00.003-04:00

David Cook sounded so amazingly awesome with his rendition of Mariah Carey’s "Always Be My Baby" last night on American Idol! He has been my favorite from Day 1 and I think that he is gaining popularity and momentum each week. Grey's Anatomy should feature his songs on their episodes. He'd fit right in! Love, love, love him!

Young@Heart Movie

2008-04-14T11:17:00.001-04:00

There is a new movie coming out this week called Young At Heart. Members of a senior citizens' chorus from New England perform rock songs by such artists as The Ramones, The Clash and Coldplay. It is really funny to watch! I just hope I can be this cool when I am 94! To watch the video, pause the jukebox on my blog!

Death At A Funeral

2008-04-13T17:27:00.003-04:00

Death at a Funeral is a 2007 black comedy film directed by Frank Oz that is super funny. Gina told me that I had to see it because she and I both love really quirky funny movies like Napoleon Dynamite and anything with Will Ferrell. Well, after I watched it the first time, I had to rewind and see it again and that is when I really laughed! It is about a dysfunctional family who arrive at the funeral of their deceased father, each with his or her own disturbing anxieties. A very funny British movie indeed!

Conversation with Kate...

2008-04-02T11:30:00.002-04:00

When Kate is trying to be coy she speaks in a "put-on" voice that is identical to Ruby from our favorite cartoon, "Max & Ruby". She has been doing this for about two years or so and it is very cute.

So, yesterday in the car, I told Kate that Susan & Riz were not going to see Sophia's picture this week, as we thought. And she wanted to know why so I had to explain off the way China works in an age-appropritate way. This was her response in an "ever-so-Ruby-esque" way...

Kate: Mama, did Susan & Riz cry?

Me: Oh, yes Kate they cried all day long. They were really hoping to see Sophia's picture this week.

Kate: Mama, that is so sad but you know God is going to bring Sophia to them soon, just like he brought me and Claire to you, right?

Me: That is so right Kate!

Kate: So Mama, Susan and Riz just have to be patient.

Me: Yes Kate I guess you are right but that is very hard when all you want is to see your baby.

Kate: Mama, God will do a big miracle for them, you'll see!

Me: Yes, we'll see.

The Kitten and the Crow

2008-03-31T10:47:00.002-04:00

This is a beautiful little YouTube movie about a kitten and a crow. It is one of the most beautiful things I have seen on You Tube since the movie about the otters holding hands while they floated in their pool.

Not just a nanny...

2008-03-26T09:20:00.010-04:00

Each year on Kate's birthday, (which is the day I got her in China), I receive a beautiful little note from the nanny that took care of her in the orphanage her first year of life. This woman is not just a nanny to us...she is like Kate's first mother. She is the one who made sure Kate was warm, and full, and loved, and played with, each and every day. Among her many duties, she always found the time to love and snuggle Kate. She was the mommy for a year...the first mommy Kate knew.

To say that she was just a nanny in an orphanage somewhere in China, is like saying that a majestic butterfly is really just a little brown worm with wings.

No... Ting was much more than a nanny. She loved Kate inside and out and mourned when we left China. We love Ting very much and she is definately considered a member of our family. A member who lives on the other side of the world. A member who doesn't speak or understand our language, yet knows no boundaries for love. A member who misses Kate each day and holds her close at heart continuously. I have never underestimated the relationship between this child and this woman. It is a bond that they will forever share and I will do everything in my power to strengthen that bond through the upcoming years.

This year I sent Ting several pictures of Kate from the day I got her in China until now. Here is the note I got back from Ting.

Dear Wendy,

Seeing the photographs showing Xiao Xiao growing up, I feel extremely happy. It seems that she is growing by my side. Every second of time, every little increase of height, nothing seems changed. They all remain in my mind. Hoping that we keep our relationship forever.

From Ting who always loves you.

Mama Makes Up Her Mind

2008-03-25T12:10:00.003-04:00

Susan & Riz's story about "I Don't Talk to Foreigners" was so hilarious that it reminded me of one of my all-time favorite books about quirky Florida crackers. The book is called "Mama Makes Up Her Mind" by Bailey White. It was published back in 1994 and was on the bestseller list for over a year. For any of you who want a good laugh and a very memorable read, then get this book! Here is an excerpt to tease you!

It was a blustery, damp fall evening when I came home to find my mother in the middle of one of her ongoing experiments with lethal and nonlethal foods. Last time it had been the big floppy leaves of the deadly poison pokeberry bush.
"If you boil them up five times and pour off the water each time, you get rid of the poison. Then you boil them up a sixth time and they're safe to eat. Have a taste." She held out a forkful of green slime.
—Bailey White

Kate's Birthday!

2008-03-19T11:38:00.006-04:00

Today, March 19th, we celebrate a wonderful event. On this day in 2001, Kate was born and on this same day in 2002, I held my beautiful baby in China for the very first time! This picture is of Kate's birthday party that we had in our hotel room with the orphanage staff on the day I got Kate in China. Ting, who you see in the party photo brought a beautiful pink heart-shaped cake for Kate and presents, too! You can see in the picture that Kate is in my arms while I am cutting the cake. She is right next to me and I had only had her for about one hour at this point! Ting is a lot happier now that she sees how happy Kate is!

This morning Kate woke up just as excited as any one person could be and she ran into my room and asked, "Mama, is today my birthday?" And I said, "Yes Kate it is your birthday...Happy Birthday to you!" And out she ran. I followed her out and we sat and snuggled on the couch and I told her, in detail, about the first time I saw her in China. I told her that Ting and I cried for very different reasons on that day. I was elated and Ting was devastated. Ting writes to Kate every year on her birthday and below is the email we got today from Ting in China!

"Dear Xiao Xiao. Happy birthday. Time just flies and now you are having your 7 years old birthday. This really makes me happy and emotional. Thank God you have found a good mother. Her love has moved me deeply and this love is going to be on your side for ever. You must be thankful and treasure it. Perhaps you are now too young to understand what I say. However, if you keep on to study hard, you will understand when you are older. I wish you grow faster, beautiful, and healthy. I wish you have good luck and happiness always. I love you. Ting."

In this picture, I had already taken Kate up to the room, given her a bath, gave her the little stacking cups that you see in this photo, and dressed her in the coziest cotton jammies ever! We came back down to sign the final papers and I immediately gave her back to Ting. Ting was still visibly crying with tears in her eyes but was very happy to see how much Kate & I loved each other in just one short hour of time that had passed. Now it was time to party in honor of Kate's first birthday!

Claire and I made Kate a chocolate cake from scratch with pink frosting a chocolate sprinkles after we dropped her off at school this morning. She is going to be so surprised when she gets home and sees her presents and her cake! Today is a blessing...an absolute blessing for us.

Spring

2008-03-09T14:17:00.002-04:00

It is still crisp in Savannah but I think spring is trying to make its way here. The grass is turning greener and the azaleas are beginning to bloom and that is a sure sign that the season is changing! When I lived in Miami there was only one season...hot! It was hot all year long and only gave way to a slight chill every now and again. I am glad to live where I can see each season, even if they only present themselves mild-mannered fashion.

God Made A Miracle

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

Last night , Kate came into my room and sat on my bed and said, "Mama, God made a big miracle to our family." I said, "Oh yeah, which miracle is that Kate?" And she answered, "That you went to China to get me and bring me back to Savannah!" I said, "That really is a miracle, isn't it?" And she said, "Yes Mama, it's a really big miracle that He did for us!"

My heart was so warmed after that little conversation. So sweet...

Everyone Should Read This Blog!

2008-03-03T16:51:00.004-05:00

100 yards to death...(courtesy of Army of Dude blog)

I heard about this blog on CNN yesterday and immediatley had to see what it was about! Well, I have been mesmerized by the detailed accounts that this young soldier in Iraq provides his readers each week. The pictures and videos are also amazing! Take your time and read through his accounts very carefully! This guy is writing history as it happens...and we should all know about it!

http://armyofdude.blogspot.com/

Martina McBride Video-Anyway

2008-02-10T19:58:00.000-05:00

An Irish Blessing

2008-01-18T20:19:00.000-05:00

May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

And rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

Creativity at it's best!

2008-01-16T09:23:00.000-05:00

Kate is very creative. Claire is quickly following her lead. On Sunday after Mass, we came home and the girls were playing. I heard them but didn't see them for a while. I would only see them dash by looking for this and that throughout the house. About an hou later, they came into the kitchen and showed me their creation. Kate had found a cardboard box and had made copies of puppets figures out of paper that she found on http://www.nickjr.com/. She created a castle out of the box that was unbelievably fantastic! They played Backyardigans for hours after that. It was too cute! If you have never watched this wonderful cartoon, then you must do so because it is great! Susan & Riz love it too and are already taping episodes for Sophia! Riz pointed out to me that he liked their shadows the best and now I love it even more because of the brilliant use of shadows!

A Very Cold Day

2008-01-08T10:57:00.000-05:00

Last week it was so cold in Savannah that I found myself lighting many fires in our kitchen fireplace. Well, I picked up Claire from preschool and it was so cold. I fed her lunch, made a fire, and went about cleaning the kitchen. When I turned around a few minutes later, I saw this beautiful sight. Claire had fallen asleep with her blanket and her kitten on the floor in front of the fire. Is that not too cute?

Song of the Dragon and Phoenix

2008-01-07T16:58:00.000-05:00

The music you hear playing on this blog is traditional Chinese Folk music and it is called The Song of the Dragon and The Phoenix. In China, the dragon and the phoenix can often be found in the decorations for weddings. This is because the Chinese consider the dragon and phoenix symbolic of blissful relations between husband and wife, another common yin and yang metaphor.

A Difficult Lesson...

2008-01-07T16:19:00.001-05:00

When we went to Miami for the wedding, Kate was very excited to see her Ye Ye & Suk Suk. These very important people are Catherine's parents who we have adopted as our grandparents. They love Kate so much...and Claire, but Kate was the first! Anyhow, the night of the wedding, YeYe and Suk Suk were very busy with the wedding party and their out-of-town guests and Kate just totally melted because she couldn't understand why she wasn't the one in the spotlight. I had to laugh, though I felt badly for her, but it was funny because Catherine used to say to her parents, all you talk about is KK. You love KK and spoil her too much. She can do no wrong... and it was a big ongoing joke for several years. Now it was Cata's night and KK was altogether unwilling to give up the spotlight but had no choice. She cried and sobbed very silently throughout the wedding feast. Thank God everyone was having so much fun they never noticed. Finally, YeYe came over and gave Kate her wedding corsage filled with beatiful red roses and she told Kate that she loved her very much. Then Suk Suk came over and kissed her and said she was his very special little granddaughter and that he loved her very much too. Finally, the sorrow subsided and she was happy. But the icing on her cake was when Cata came over and took a picture with her and said she loved her very much too. It was a beautiful evening.

The Chinese Wedding

2008-01-07T11:19:00.000-05:00

We were invited to attend a traditional Chinese wedding in Miami over the holidays. As ever, it was steeped in tradition and it was just beautiful! Catherine and her husband were a beautiful couple and so happy. Cata greeted her guests in a beautiful red cheongsam. When I first saw her I wanted to cry she was so breathtaking. Then, after a while she changed to another dress. A gorgeous pale gold sleeveless cheongsam. Then finally, she changed to a chocolate brown evening gown. She was absolutely gorgeous the entire night! We were treated to a traditional 12 course wedding feast. This included some delicacies such as shark fin soup, which the girls and I liked very much and abalone and lobster with jellyfish which was also very good. The main courses commonly feature fowl that mate for life such as duck or geese. Peking Duck is often served, since this is a red dish. Chicken and duck will also be found on the banquet table - the two fowls represent a balance between the man and the woman in their new relationship. 7 UP is the soft drink of choice at Chinese weddings. In Chinese the word "up" sounds like "happiness" so 7 UP is considered to be a very lucky drink! Tea and alcohol are also served. My favorite dish was the ginger fish, a whole fish that was truly delicious.

On her wedding day, Cata participated in a special hairdressing ritual, where her mother combs her hair and gives her advice for a successful marriage. Three days after the ceremony, she returned home for a symbolic visit with her family before beginning her married life. She brought several gifts, including a roasted pig, which symbolizes the bride's purity. Then her family returned gifts to the grooms family of various fruits.

We gave her beautiful gifts of the Dragon & The Phoenix which are symbolic as well. In Chinese culture, the dragon and the phoenix symbolize the yin (the feminine side of our nature) and the yang (the masculine side of our nature) respectively. They are also associated with goodness and prosperity.

Cata and her family are very important to us as they helped take care of Kate and teach her Chinese when we returned home from China. They fell in love with Kate, and Cata's parents are now Kate & Claire's adopted grandparents. When Kate was 4, she said she was going to marry Cata's brother Eric. She said, "Mama, I just love Eric!" We love this family very much and were greatly honored at this family wedding.

Santa Pics

2008-01-07T11:06:00.000-05:00

I have the cutest picture of Riz holding Claire when Santa came through the crowd. This was the absolute best Santa I ever saw. He was the real thing for sure! He entered his North Pole Cottage through the line so he could stop and visit the children. He spoke to everyone and was lovely!

Downtown Disney

2008-01-07T10:10:00.000-05:00

The Rizzos took us to Downtown Disney the Saturday before Christmas and we had a great time! We stopped at Ghiradelli's and had hot chocolate and chocolate ice cream! I read a funny slogan today that said, "A balanced diet is chocolate in both hands!" On this day, we definately had a balanced diet! Then, the girls rode on the little train. They loved it! Then, they got a picture with Santa, and if you have never had a photos with Santa in Disney, make sure you put that at the top of your list when the babies come home! It is so beautifully done! We had such a wonderful day! Thanks Susan & Riz for making it all the more special by being there with us!

Christmas Eve

2008-01-07T10:05:00.000-05:00

We had Santa's Elves come to the Rizzo's house on Christmas Eve and leave pajamas and chocolates for the girls. They were so excited when they ran up to their room and looked on the bed to find their surprises.

Backing Up!

2008-01-07T09:49:00.000-05:00

I haven't had time to really update our blog and I have so many wonderful pictures to share with you from our Christmas holidays! So I am going to go back to the beginning of December with a Gingerbread House Party we had at our good friends Karla & Brian's! Karla bought houses for all of the kids and then she and her husband put them together. When we got to their house, the little houses were all set up on the table and all kinds of beautiful and yummy decorations were available for all of the children to make the most beautiful little houses ever! Thanks Karla & Brian! We adore you!

Bring on the Year of the Rat!

2008-01-04T13:04:00.000-05:00

My log in date was January 20, 2006. I thought for sure we would have a little brother running around our house by now! However, China has slowed down to a crawl with referrals, sending first-time waiting parents over the edge! The only thing that keeps me sane is knowing that the process does work, as I have living proof at home in the form of two gorgeous girls, who are currently leaping around the house like the 12 Dancing Princesses! I figure if they continue to refer only 5 days each month, then my referral should arrive either in August or September. So, looking on the bright side, as always, we should be travelling AFTER the Olympics, which would be a blessing! I wish everyone out there in blog land a very Happy New Year! Bring on the Year of the Rat! That would be ME! LOL

Celebrate Me Home!

2007-12-20T10:26:00.000-05:00

I heard the song "Celebrate Me Home" by Kenny Loggins on the radio this morning and it made me think of Hope being home! Welcome home my dear friends and Merry Christmas!

Over the River and Through the Woods

2007-12-15T19:38:00.000-05:00

My friend Ed in Miami sent me a web card today that he made and it had the cutest picture of Santa that I had to share it with you all. Enjoy!

Map It!

2007-12-15T15:18:00.000-05:00

Create your own visitor map!

We All Age

2007-12-12T17:54:00.000-05:00

I am newly addicted to the show Brothers & Sisters! It is so fantastic and now it is on hiatus due to the writer's strike. Darn...just when I got hooked! Anyhow, last week's episode had a guest appearance by an old favorite from the 80's...did you all catch the ending when a "mystery man" showed up at Holly's house? It was Ken Olin who was the good-looking 30 something star! I recognized him almost immediately despite the fact that he looks quite different! Check him out! I think he might be Becca's real father, which sets the stage for Becca and Justin to get together. I think she really loves him! This show is so great! Thanks Susan for prompting me to watch it! Comments welcome!

Cheri & Shane

2007-12-09T11:01:00.000-05:00

Guangzhou Airport
Our very good friends, Cheri & Shane, left this morning on their journey to China to get their daughter Hope! I couldn't be more excited if it were me leaving to go get Aidan. I am thrilled beyond words for these two wonderful people who are getting ready to be parents for the first time. They are scheduled to arrive in Guangzhou tomorrow morning and they will meet Hope the following day, I believe. The girls and I called Shane & Cheri last night and wished them well. They were so excited, but at the same time calm, becasue they were going to be able to hold Hope in their arms very soon. They had everything packed and were absolutely ready to leave. The next time we see pictures of them, they will be a beautiful, happy family of three!

The Feast Day of St. Nicholas

2007-12-06T08:19:00.000-05:00

My girls woke up this morning full of joy and anticipation of seeing whether or not St. Nicholas came to our house last night. Here are the pictures.

St. Nicholas

2007-12-05T20:11:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow, December 6th is the Feast Day of St. Nicholas, who was known for giving things to people in need. Now, he is better known as Sinter Klaas in Belgium and Holland, Pere Noel in France, Sankt Nikolaus in Bavaria and St. Nikola in Russia. The children leave their shoes by the fireplace and St. Nicholas rides in on a white horse and leaves little presents and candy for the children while they sleep.

We celebrate Christmas Around the World in our house. I try to celebrate as many Feast Days as I can to teach the girls about how children in other places celebrate this season. It is a lot of fun and you can get very creative with your ideas!

Our Advent Wreath

2007-12-05T12:23:00.000-05:00

We have a beautiful Advent wreath an Claire is lighting the first candle each night this week. Kate understands that she will light the second candle next week, and all is well. The girls are accumulating good deeds that we write on a piece of brown paper and place under Baby Jesus' cradle in the manger. The brown paper represents hay. This is a great way to get the children involved in the Advent season.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah

2007-12-02T11:24:00.000-05:00

Our Cathedral is so beautiful that I wanted to share it with all of you. If you are ever in Savannah, be sure and walk inside. It is a magical and joyful place.

The Season has begun...

2007-12-02T10:26:00.000-05:00

Last night we went to Mass and they lit the first purple candle on the beautiful Advent wreath at the Cathedral in Savannah. The priest spoke about the value and the gift of waiting and I thought it was very apropos given our long wait to get our babies. He reminded us to slow down our thoughts and our minds during this frenzied time of the year and to really enjoy the season and what it has to offer. I always feel a sense of renewal at this time of year. The season really brings out the joys and blessings that we have in our lives.

Ave Maria & O Holy Night

2007-11-30T17:13:00.000-05:00

This is a beautiful rendition of Ave Maria by Karen Carpenter and my favorite rendition of O Holy Night by Josh Groban. The videos are beautiful. Juan, these are for you! Happy Advent!

Hearts...

2007-11-29T07:49:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, after I picked up Claire from school we went out to lunch. I could tell that she was tired after lunch but we had to go to Michael's to get some crafts. The Christmas music was playing in the car and the song "The Christmas Canon" came on by The Trans-Siberian Orchestra. It is playing on my blog right now. I looked into my rearview mirror at Claire and she looked sleepy and sad. This was our conversation from that point:

I asked, "Claire are you tired, Darling Baby?"

"No Mama, but this song is very sad."

"What are you thinking about right now?"

"I'm thinking about when I was in China and you came and got me and I cried and cried and pointed out the window. This song makes me think of China."

I said, "Oh yes, I remember that day very well. That was a very happy and a very sad day all at once."

She said, "Yes Mama, you were very happy and I was very sad."

I said, "Yes, that's true...but you were only sad for a little while". It's very difficult for a baby to leave the people she knows and to leave a place where she was born, but that was one of Mama's happiest days because you became my baby that day."

She said, "And I got a sister that day."

"That's right! Claire, do you feel sad that you had to leave China because if you do you can talk to Mama about it and you can cry if you feel sad. That's OK you know. "

"I know Mama...I love you!"

"I love you too, Darling Baby!"

"Mama, you are my heart."

"You will always be my heart, too."

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

2007-11-21T12:14:00.000-05:00

Watching this has always been a tradition in our family. So, while I cook tomorrow you can bet I will be watching the parade from the kitchen TV. I'm so excited!! Here is a YouTube clip if you wanna watch too. This is the parade from last year! If you wanna watch, you can scroll down blog first and hit the pause button on the center of the orange bird to turn off blog music.

Brand New American Girl

2007-11-20T15:50:00.000-05:00

Ivy Ling is the newest addition to the American Girl Doll Collection. She is Chinese but was not adopted. She is from a Chinese-American family with Chinese parents. I know the adoption community has been trying to get American Girl to do an adopted Chinese doll for years now, so this is a step in the right direction! This is the first Asian doll they have ever made. I want to get her for Kate and cut her hair like Kate's! I think that would be really cute. They even make school uniforms at the uniform store to match these dolls. Isn't that something?

Our Thanksgiving Menu

2007-11-20T11:18:00.000-05:00

Turkey & Gravy
Cornbread Stuffing
Mashed Potatoes
Baked sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon, Butter, & Brown Sugar
Fresh Green Bean Casserole
The Rizzo's Corn Pudding
Parkerhouse Rolls
Wine

Thanksgiving at Our House

2007-11-20T10:56:00.000-05:00

My brother and his family are driving up from Miami this Thanksgiving. They will arrive on Wednesday evening. Me and the girls are so excited! We will wake up in the morning and begin cooking while watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade! Coffee will be on, a fire lit in the kitchen fireplace and kids playing all over the place! We will have dinner in the afternoon, around 3:00, and then we have been invited to Karla & Brian's for dessert. They just moved to Isle of Hope from Los Angeles in September and they have two daughters from China and a son from Thailand! We are so happy they are in Savannah now! All of our children are the same age and love each other already!

Warming Our Toes & Our Biscuits

2007-11-19T12:47:00.000-05:00

I lit my first fire this year in our kitchen fireplace and the girls sat in front of it and warmed their toes and their "biscuits" as Claire's preschool teacher so lovingly refers to as their fannies!
LOL In our house we call fannies,
"cupcakes'! LOL This was so cute I had to snap a photo!

My Top Ten

2007-11-19T09:10:00.000-05:00

I wanted to list 10 things for which I am most thankful this year.

1. I am thankful for my children. They are my greatest joy in life.
2. I am thankful for my family and friends, near and far.
3. I am thankful for my pets, that are spoiled rotten, happy and much loved by our family.
4. I am thankful for the memories I have of the many Thanksgivngs I had with my mom and dad.
5. I am thankful that I had a mom that was so wonderful and loving and that she served as my model for being a good mommy to my girls.
6. I am thankful my children are happy in school.
7. I am thankful for our very close relationship with Kate's foster mom in China.
8. I am thankful for my beautiful house on the lovely Isle of Hope!
9. I am thankful I am Catholic.
10. I am thankful that I have a baby brother waiting to join our family soon!

Wendy Harrison

High Honor Roll

2007-11-14T19:01:00.000-05:00

Kate just completed her first grading period in 1st grade and she got straight A's! She was given an award today for High Honors and received a certificate! I am SO very proud of this child! The first photo is her getting her award, and the second she is fourth from the right with her class. Congratulations Kate!

Crabby Claire

2007-11-13T10:44:00.000-05:00

Claire is sick with a fever and has been very crabby and difficult. I have set her up on the couch with a warm quilt, a soft feather pillow and her dollies... first strike! One of the dolls did not have any clothes on and she had a fit! She wanted to know where the clothes were and why her doll was naked. I had no clue where the little clothes could have been so I told her that it was ok that she didn't have any clothes on and that perhaps we could buy her some new doll clothes soon...second strike! She was not having any of it. She wanted clothes for that doll and no amount of "mommy psychology" was going to change her mind! So, I suggested that she just let that dolly take a nap and to go and put her in her room and just play with the other dollies for now...third strike and I'm out! She threw herself on the cold floor and began to cry like the world was ending! I took the silly little doll and told her that we would find a way to dress her. Out came the toilet paper and some scotch tape! I wrapped the doll in my best "Bob Mackie-like" design and the girl lit up like an overlit Christmas tree! All is good in our world again...for now! LOL!!

Pucca

2007-11-10T15:38:00.000-05:00

I am just head over heels about this little doll Pucca. I think she is the cutest thing! I think it is because when I look at her, I see Kate & Claire! She is similar to Hello Kitty, who I also love!

Chococat is my favorite!

Halloween 2007

2007-11-01T11:13:00.001-04:00

Pretty Fairies...

Yesterday, I picked up two very excited little girls from school. We came home, did our homework, had a bite to eat, and then off we went to trick-or-treat! We had so much fun and the girls were beautiful! Everyone loved their costumes that I made. We started at 5:00 and were home by 7:00. Girls were pooped out but we had a blast!

Eat Pray Love

2007-10-21T17:51:00.000-04:00

After hearing Oprah rave about this book on her show for a week, I decided that I must get the book and see what all the stir was about. I just finsihed reading this book by Elizabeth Gilbert and it is a must read for everyone. Just very wonderful in all respects. I cannot really put my finger on one thing in the book that is the most moving because it all just unfolds as if you were in her shoes and then comes back around full circle in the end. Wonderful...simply wonderful! Click on the book to go to the author's website!

The Diaper Bag

2007-10-16T15:34:00.001-04:00

Here is the matching diaper bag! Isn't it great. The colors are peacock and chocolate and the circles are my favorite!

Charles Aidan's Nursery

2007-10-16T15:30:00.000-04:00

Thanks to my dear friend Susan who emailed me yesterday with the link for this crib set! I just love it and I ordered it right away. Now I have to find the crib in the picture and I will be set! Best part? It matches my diaper bag exactly! Thanks Suz!

Parenting!

2007-10-03T17:12:00.001-04:00

You Will Be a Cool Parent

You seem to naturally know a lot about parenting, and you know what kids need.
You can tell when it's time to let kids off the hook, and when it's time to lay down the law.
While your parenting is modern and hip, it's not over the top.
You know that there's nothing cool about a parent who acts like a teenager... or a drill sergeant!

Would You Be a Cool Parent?

Hanging on my rear view mirror...

2007-08-29T19:06:00.000-04:00

...is a Pope John Paul II World Peace Rosary. The purpose is to pray for world peace and conversion. The colors represent the five parts of the world:

GREEN - Africa
RED - The Americas
WHITE - Europe
BLUE - Oceania
YELLOW - Asia

Three Guys & a Doll

2007-08-27T18:19:00.000-04:00

I found this picture of Claire being catered to by Shane, Mike, & Riz on our Savannah weekend. It was too cute not to put up on my blog! So, enjoy everyone! I know I have at least 3 great daddies in the making to call upon if Kate & Claire need anything!

Song: Forever Young by Bob Dylan

Tai Chi in China

2007-08-22T13:05:00.000-04:00

In China, if you are up early enough, and sometimes in the afternoons, you will see people of all ages outside in the streets and parks doing Tai Chi. It is a beautiful sight to watch all of them dance in unison, usually to beautiful music. Sometimes they hold swords, sometimes beautiful pieces of silk, but nonetheless, they are out there every morning exercising! We could learn a thing or two from them, don't ya think? Watch this short video to see this beautiful form of exercise in China.

Our Moon Festivals

2007-08-18T09:32:00.003-04:00

The Mid-Autumn Moon Festival is on Septemebr 25, 2007. The moon festival is very simple and lovely. The Mid-Autumn Festival is a nostalgic occasion for families to gather to watch the full moon. It is also a romantic night for lovers, who sit holding hands on hilltops, riverbanks and park benches, captivated by the brightest moon of the year. The Harvest Moon or Mid-Autumn Festival (Zhong Qiu Jie) is a day of family reunions much like a Western Thanksgiving. Chinese people believe that on that day, the moon is the roundest and brightest signaling a time of completeness and abundance. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, children are delighted to stay up past midnight, parading multi-colored lanterns into the wee hours as families take to the streets or city parks to moon-gaze.

The people in China do a lot of travelling during this time so they can be with family, friends, and loved ones. Traditional foods for a Chinese Mid-Autumn feast are red for good luck. Lobster and salmon are particular favorites along with apples, pomegranates, roasted peanuts, pomelo, chestnuts, and moon cakes. Here is nice salmon recipe for Moon Festival. Try it at home!

On the past moon festivals, I have celebrated with my children in the following way:
We get together with Chinese friends and cook Chinese food. Then, we tell the girls stories about China, about our travels to get them when they were babies and I usually read them a chinese story. And then we cut into a mooncake from China Sprout!! The ones shown in this picture are my favorites! They are filled with White Lotus Paste, which is sweet and delicious!
Then we get our lanterns and go outside to look at the moon. We play chinese music and sing songs and watch the moon together while nibbling on mooncakes, and coffee or tea for the adults. It is a lot of fun.

Watch the video to see how much time is required to make an authentic mooncake and then you will appreciate why they are so costly!

Angel's Lullabye

2007-08-17T20:47:00.000-04:00

Midnight moonlight shining through the curtain lace,

Paints a perfect picture on your perfect face.

One sweet angel sleeping in my arms,

You are the promise I knew God would keep,

You are the gift that makes my world complete.

And you'll never know how much I love you,

But I'll keep on telling you my whole life through.

Now I believe in miracles, and you're the reason why,

So dream on while I sing you my angel's lullaby.

Song by Reba McEntire

Congee

2007-08-17T13:27:00.001-04:00

When my babies were small, I used to make congee all the time for them. My Chinese friend came to my house and taught me how to make it, which is very simple. Anyhow, I decided to make a big pot of it today.
I used basmati rice and jasmine rice, water, chicken broth, leeks, ginger, mushrooms, soy sauce, and a little black sesame oil. The most important thing is that you use about 1 cup of rice, 3 cuos of water and 3 cups of broth. I shredded a chicken breast and stuck it in to make chicken congee. You can add pork, beef and any ground versions of these, as well. You throw all of those things into a casserole pot, cover with a lid, and simmer it at a low boil until the rice "pops". Check it often and stir it to make sure it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan! It turns into a yummy porridge! My girls were choming at the bit to eat a big bowl today at lunchtime!

Rules of Life

2007-08-17T09:25:00.001-04:00

Live Simply.

Love Generously.

Care Deeply.

Speak Kindly.

Leave the Rest to God.

Bikini Babies

2007-08-16T14:30:00.001-04:00

Itsy bitsy bikinis!

On a hot, hot day in Savannah...

2007-08-16T14:22:00.003-04:00

...why not strip down to your skiviest "kini" and play in the next door neighbor's sprinklers with their big dog? That's what we did in this sweltering lowcountry heat. Lily is our neighbor's dog and she is wonderful! My girls love to go to Lily's house to play, and today was no exception, since Allison left her sprinklers on for us! LOL Everyone got wet and it was a great way to cool down today!

Stand Off...

2007-08-16T14:22:00.001-04:00

Lily is our neighbor and we love her. She is a great dog! Whenever we go over to see Lily, Baci follows along to guard us. So, today when we were palying in the sprinklers, Baci came along, too. Lily just could not believe that Baci was lounging in her driveway, so she approached him, but never too close! Lily is terrified of Baci! LOLOL They had a stand-off for about 20 minutes. You can see in the pictures that Baci didn't give a wink that Lily was staring hm down. He was ever so confident that the 120 pound dog would not come too close. And he was right! LOLOL!!

Too Much TV!

2007-08-16T14:21:00.000-04:00

I came to the realization that mayb my children have been watching too much TV this summer. It started early this summer with Claire's absolute fascination with Charmin Ultra. Wherever we went, if she saw a package of Charmin Ultra she would start yelling it out loud and making a big to do about it. Thatw as really funny, as explained in a previous post. Anyway, Claire, being the more language-savvy child of the two girls, proved my point today with the following statement.

We went to the Yankee Candle store in the mall to get some more Electric Home Fragrancers because they were on sale! When we got home, I opened it and when Claire saw it she said rather bluntly, "Mama, that is an AirWick air freshener...It's good to be home." I cracked up laughing because the girl knows slogans, for heaven's sake! So, I am going to have to cut back on TV now, as school doesn't start for another few weeks!