Welcome.... Olivia Grace

Fall happenings.....

2008-10-20T07:46:00.002-08:00

Fall..who doesn't just love it!!! We did our fall festivities last weekend...such a beautiful day!! All is great here..Couldn't be happier. Olivia is doing very well...time has gone by so fast. As for Ally..she is always busy with Soccer, Dance and Basketball..I just don't know how she does it..and still gets straight A's in school..We are blessed..very blessed with our 2 girls!
Enjoy the photos!!

Having some fun.....Enjoy!!

2008-10-11T11:25:00.002-08:00

My Dancing Machine....

2008-10-01T07:22:00.003-08:00

After our morning shower..Olivia and I decided to turn on the tunes and dance, dance, dance...Here's a little glimpse of Olivia's famous dance moves!!! Enjoy!!

Happy Birthday Olivia...

2008-09-27T13:21:00.002-08:00

Ok..I'm a little late...Olivia turned 2 about 2 1/2 weeks ago....On the day of her bday...I took her to Chuckee Cheese with Auntie..then later that evening we had a little cake with Big Sis and Daddy...then the big party...(which I will post soon)...was last weekend..
Enjoy the photos!! Will be posting the actual birthday celebration SOON!!!

Look who's "2" today!!!!

2008-09-10T02:39:00.002-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY SWEET OLIVIA!!!

I got a NEW camera!! YAY!!!

2008-09-03T18:18:00.004-08:00

So..I finally bought a new camera..Now lets see if I can keep up with this blog..I had my niece's wedding this weekend..so my camera is pretty full with those pictures..but I did snap a few to keep you all busy until I can get the rest up..
Hope all is well!!

Happy "2" Birthday Hannah

2008-08-24T13:23:00.005-08:00

Happy Birthday to my China "Sista" Friend...
Love ya, Olivia

Water Slide FUN!!!!!

2008-07-27T14:28:00.004-08:00

Ok..it all started with our China group reunion party..There was this little cutie named "Gemma"..her mommy was putting her under the water...I was very impressed..Being we have a pool..I needed to start getting Olivia use to the water in the face..she was never very fond of the pool. So after our China reunion..I slowly been putting her under the water and she is doing great..she has been jumping to me and I have been letting her go under more and more each time.

NEXT step...water slides..haha...We went to a picnic/lake area that had 3 water slides. I paid for a one trip ticket down the slide for Olivia. I made Auntie take her first..I was too chicken to do it. I wasn't too sure if she would like it...To my surprise..she LOVED it..she would get out of the water and say.."again, again"..and walk back up the ramp...so I walked back up to the gate..and got her own wrist band for the day..The only down fall...the ramp!! It would take her little legs a very long time to get to the top..So me and Auntie would take turns carrying her up...

It was a great day of fun!! So Gemma...be ready for them water slides..I'll be calling you soon!!

ENJOY!!!

Summer fun with my girls....

2008-07-19T08:14:00.003-08:00

Here's a few photos of the summer fun I am having with my girls. I have to do these in order. I have a ton of my China group "gotcha day" reunion pictures. Stay tuned for those!!!I had to get these up first. ENJOY!!!

Happy 1 Year "Gotcha Day"

2008-07-09T13:32:00.003-08:00

THEN..........

NOW...

It's been 1 year since Olivia was put into our arms for the first time. This year has gone by so fast!!! Congrats to all my China 138 friends!!!

"Dis is Cool"

2008-07-08T06:16:00.004-08:00

We were on our way for ice cream in the car. Olivia puts on her sunglasses...We were saying to her "those are cool"..well after a couple of times..she would call your name..and say"dis is cool"..So we video taped it from our cell phone..First she says "auntie" then she says what..she says "dis is cool". Then she preceded to call everyone's name and say "dis is cool".It was the funniest thing ever.. The sound is a bit low..you will need to turn up your speakers...Wanted to share this with everyone...Just too cute!!!! She will be 22 mos. on Thurs..

Summer Fun...

2008-06-29T17:11:00.001-08:00

Happy Memorial Day!!!!

2008-05-26T07:17:00.000-08:00

Camera broken...AGAIN!!!

2008-05-21T12:40:00.003-08:00

Ok,,my camera is broken...AGAIN....so I leave you with one of my all time favorite photos of my girls when we got home from China in the summer!!! New pictures hopefully soon!!!

Happy Mothers Day Shirl...

2008-05-11T03:08:00.002-08:00

Happy Mothers Day to my friend,
Surprise.. I am doing a blog FOR YOU!!
Your first Mothers day with not only one but TWO very beautiful, intelligent, funny and sweet girls. You are one very lucky Mom and your girls also are so lucky to have you.
I, as well, am lucky to have you as my friend. I do not have my mother anymore to turn to in good times and bad.. but since we have become such great friends.. I have found that closeness with you that I had with Mom - and on mothers day.. I want to thank you for all you do for me. You are such a wonderful person with a big heart. I am so glad and lucky to have gotten to know you.
You are so blessed with your girls and they really are so lucky to have you for a mom. Happy Mothers Day my friend.
Love ya bunches! XO
Maria

1 Year ago today....referral day!!!!!!!

2008-05-01T02:31:00.003-08:00

Referral pic #1

Referral pic #2

Referral pic #3

And here is my little angel TODAY!!!

I remember the day so well. Being at my friend Maria's house, phone ringing, she yells, it's your agency...I was like "yeah right"..and didn't go to the phone...She starts jumping like a lunatic saying "hurry up" answer the phone..it's your agency..I ran so fast..shaking..couldn't even speak to say Hello!!! The day was finally here!! Happy Referral Day to all the China 138 group!

Few favorite photos.......

2008-04-27T08:37:00.005-08:00

Who stole my cell phone and glasses??????

Sliding with Big Sis in Pj's

New outfit...

Say cheeezzzz....

Give me a wink!!

So cute in Mommy's glasses!

Finally...some photos!!

2008-04-16T14:30:00.002-08:00

Whoa..I know, I know...you are all falling over with joy...I have some photos..I have met up with my China group a few times and had some awesome playdates. It is so wonderful that we can meet up a couple times a month to keep the girls in touch with each other. Olivia just loves to play with her China Sista's.
Everything is going great. Olivia is doing very well. Spring is here and she loves to be outside. I have to say..so glad the weather is looking good these days. My little Olivia..hmmmmm...let's just say is very busy!! Not crazy, loud, running around busy. She doesn't stay in one place for long or play with toys for long. Just walks around and explores everything..Follows Mommy every where...
As for my Ally...She is busy also. Basketball season is finally over..we had about 3 weeks of break..now it's time for soccer. I don't know how she does it. With all that she has going on..she still keeps those grades up. We are so proud of her. She does awesome with Olivia also..."most of the time"..when Olivia decides to grab her Ipod etc...whoa!! All you hear screeching through the house is "M O M!!!!" heehee...
I hope you enjoy the photos..I will hopefully try to get a little better these days!!! ;-)

Enough of the ice cream sandwich!!!

2008-04-06T04:43:00.002-08:00

Hey all...I know I have been sooo bad with my posting lately. My camera is out of order right now. Going to get pictures done today so I can post tonight. I have zillions of photos for you all. I had a few playdates with my travel group..easter and all other photos to share.
Stay tuned...........Hope all is well!!!!!

Yummy...Ice Cream Sandwich!!!!!!

2008-02-26T06:32:00.002-08:00

Ok..no I didn't give this to her...the waitress did..So I said..'what the heck'. All the other girls had one, and I guess the waitress didn't want to leave Olivia out..UGH! She enjoyed it sooo much. It was so funny watching her eat this. She has never had anything like this before.
Thank you so much Maria for all the photos. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't have 1/2 the pictures that I do!!! THX!

I love you Ally.....

2008-02-14T11:51:00.001-08:00

My daughter Ally is amazing..I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you all how special she is to me. She is everything a Mom could ever want.
I just want her to know how very special she is to me. Ally, I love you so much and you are the light of my life!!

Happy Chinese New Year!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-07T04:06:00.000-08:00

Playdate with my Buddy Reese!!!

2008-02-05T13:19:00.001-08:00

Olivia had a playdate with my friend Darin's little boy Reese. We went to our local skating rink and they open it up during the day to the little ones. The kids had a blast. They take over the whole place. Great time for the little ones to just run and play..and Mom's can get a bit of rest..well...not exactly. haha! Sam and Kathryn, sorry you had to miss...I'm sure we will go again soon!!

Tonight's the night!!!!!!!!

2008-01-31T13:01:00.000-08:00

Going to see my man Lenny Kravitz tonight with my sis-in-law..WHOO HOO!!!!!!!

Winter fun!!!

2008-01-19T12:55:00.001-08:00

16 mos. old today!!!!

2008-01-10T04:55:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day photos..ENJOY!!!

2007-12-25T13:05:00.001-08:00

Getting the tree.....

2007-12-23T06:04:00.001-08:00

Happy Holidays from Ally & Olivia

2007-12-12T13:03:00.000-08:00

First haircut!!!

2007-12-10T08:31:00.001-08:00

We went over to my friend Maria's, who is a hairdresser,for Olivia's first hair cut. Let's just say..she wasn't having any part of it. So, I had to put her on my lap so she can finish cutting. She needed a haircut so bad. Her bangs had this funky point to them..and we needed to even them out. Maria will tell you they are a bit too short, because Olivia kept on moving..haha..I think they are perfect!! She looks adorable...

Playdate with my China Sista-Friend Lilly....

2007-11-29T17:05:00.001-08:00

Monday I met with a couple of my friends that I traveled with to China, Kathryn and Sam. We met for breakfast with our little ones. We had a nice time..at the end the girls were walking around socializing with everyone in the restaurant. It was so cute. Kathryn and her little one Maye couldn't meet up with us after for a playdate..it was Maye's naptime and her "meany" Mommy wouldn't let her come and play with Olivia and Lilly..Sorry Maye you had to miss out!! (ha ha) Next time Kathryn,,being you live SOOOO far away..A whole 15 mins!
We went back to my house so the girls can play..it was a lot of fun to see them together. At one point, they kind of went their separate ways for a bit. Mine watching the Wiggles and Lilly playing with the doll carriage.
Thank you Sam and Kathryn for the nice time!! It was so nice to see you guys again!!

Ally's birthday Sleep over...fun, fun, fun

2007-11-25T07:14:00.001-08:00

Happy 11th Birthday Ally!!!

2007-11-17T15:43:00.001-08:00

Some cute photos....

2007-11-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

Ally with some of her soccer buddies!! Great season girls!!

Ally warming up before her game.....

Hanging with my China sista friend Lilly!

Styling with my new barrette...

Learning to walk in my new overalls...

Feeding myself breakfast...this is my morning hair!!

When I'm all full and Mommy's not looking!

Olivia giving us a wink at her baptism....

Halloween FUN!

2007-11-05T16:16:00.001-08:00

Mom's Day Out.....

2007-11-01T17:06:00.001-08:00

Ok..so this was my day out ( 3 hours) without baby!! Yes,,I do love pedicures, manicures and defintely massages...BUT...this is one of my favorite hobbies and an excellent way to reduce some stress and have a lot of fun!!! My friend Maria and I went out on our quads for a few hours. It felt so good to get out. Since I have been back from China, there hasn't been much time for Mom..so I got someone to watch the baby for a few hours...and I had a blast!! Actually Olivia had a lot of fun with our friends who watched her. They had kids of their own..She just loved the ball pit that they had..I guess I have to invest in one of those!!!
So...I had a great time..and can't wait to go out again!!!

China 138 Halloween Party!

2007-10-27T05:16:00.001-08:00

More Fall Fun.....

2007-10-27T04:40:00.001-08:00

New photos...YAY!!!!!

2007-10-16T04:30:00.001-08:00

Finally here are some photos..Well, they are taken the day of Olivia's first birthday. (yes, last month Sept 10th)..Sorry, I am so behind on the blog these days. Did post a bunch of birthday pictures from her party that weekend, but not the ones of the day of her bday.. My friend Maria and I took Olivia to chinese for lunch. It was the first time she has eaten chinese since we have been back from China. So as you can see...she loves it! Then the waitress brought us all out fortune cookies..Olivia got one which is pictured and it said birthday. Now how strange was that. I just couldn't believe that had happened..One in a million chances of that happening. We were given 3 of them and they were all different. After we left, she crashed in her car seat from all that chinese food. Then we took her back to the house and gave her a nice chocolate cupcake..which she loved but doesn't like to get hands all yukky..It's funny!
Enjoy the photos!!

My girls....my everything!!

2007-09-30T06:25:00.001-08:00

Finally....some photos!!!

2007-09-20T17:26:00.000-08:00

Just got my ears pierced! I'm so brave!

Having fun with her cake!!!

Go Red Sox..A gift from Uncle John!

Feeding Mema some cake...

Olivia's 1st Birthday cake..Thanks Maria!!

Her new Cinderalla chair from her big sister!!!

Ok peeps, here are a few pictures from the weekend. I have so many pictures I need to put up.. Last weekend Olivia got her ears pierced and Ally got her second hole.
This weekend we had a get together for Olivia's 1st bday.
Enjoy the pictures and hopefully I will have more to come soon!! Trust me..I have a zillion of pictures stored on this computer to put on the blog!!! I am so behind on blog land~~ SORRY...

Remebering China part 2....

2007-09-13T18:06:00.001-08:00

Happy 1st Birthday Olivia!!!!

2007-09-10T02:38:00.000-08:00

For my Friend....

2007-09-09T18:46:00.000-08:00

A close friend of mine, whom I traveled to China with, is in the hospital. She isn't doing very well at all. She has been in the hospital for 2 weeks now and they don't know what is wrong with her. She has only been home with her new daughter from China for about 7 weeks. She waited over 2 years for her daughter, and now she can't even see her while in the hospital.
Please keep her in your thoughts and say a prayer for her!!

Thank you!

Time flies....

2007-09-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

Olivia's referral picture I recieved on May 1st, 2007!! She was 5 mos. old. in this picture

Look at me now!!! August, 2007 at 11 mos. old.

Festivities....

2007-09-03T14:49:00.000-08:00

Meeting Auntie Mary for the first time!!

Emily aka "Skittles" and Olivia

YES!!! They had a blast! Thanks Maria and Michael!

Beautiful bakers....

ENJOY~~

First day of School...

2007-08-29T16:53:00.000-08:00

Ally and Ashley

This is a picture of Ally's first day of school. It was the first day in Middle School (5th grade). She started on Tues. Boy do I miss her!! She was such a big help to me with little Olivia. So far she is enjoying the new school. A bit bigger than the Elementary School.
I hope all is well with everyone out in blog land!!
Talk soon!

Happy Birthday Miss. Hannah!!!!

2007-08-24T03:41:00.001-08:00

I want to wish Little Miss. Hannah a very Happy 1st Birthday!!

Hannah was in the same orphanage as my Olivia. We traveled with her Mommy and Daddy,,,aka Colleen and Jim. She is a very lucky girl!!! Best wishes to you Hannah..

Another day at the Ocean....

2007-08-20T16:28:00.000-08:00

My favorite photo of all time...Ally and Olivia!!!

Ashley, Ally, Olivia and Emma

Olivia loves her scrambled eggs..

This big wave is going to catch up with Ally~~~

Ally wiped out from that wave!!!

A Day at the Beach....

2007-08-12T13:25:00.000-08:00

Lil and Big Sis at the beach...

Playing with some beach toys...

Taking a break!

Olivia deciding on whether or not to put that dirt in her mouth!! and yes..she did!

My beach baby!!!

Ally waiting for the perfect wave..

Ally catching the wave!!

Happy 11 Month Birthday Olivia

2007-08-10T13:24:00.000-08:00

Today Olivia is 11 mos old today!!! Happy Birthday Olivia..I love you!!!!

Bathtime fun....

2007-08-02T16:40:00.001-08:00

YAY!! Finally got the sweet potatoes off my face!!!

Gotta love those cheeks!!!

It has been such a wonderful joy to have this little one in our home!!!! I couldn't ask for anything better...well..maybe a little better sleep for myself..haha!!!

Talk soon!!!

Summer time....

2007-08-01T16:15:00.001-08:00

Isn't she cute???

Looking good in my new suit!

I love my pool with my new floaty and my big Sis!!

Love my Big sister's scrambled eggs!

Pretty in Pink they are!!! My 2 girls! LOVE THEM!

Hey there,
Just some quick pictures. Summer is going good. Although, spent most of July in China and then one week of rest. It is now August!! Ally will be back to school soon..UGH too soon for me. She has been such a great help with Olivia. I'm really going to miss her when she goes to school. That's all for now. Little one needs to go to bed...GNITE!!

Birthday FUN

2007-08-01T03:16:00.001-08:00

Me and my girls on my birthday!! I just LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them!!

This is a must in this restaurant..being your birthday..SADDLE UP!!

My friend Maria took me to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. The kids and us had a blast. Here are a couple pictures from last night..ENJOY!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHIRLEY

2007-07-31T11:02:00.001-08:00

Hey there my friend. Yes.. you should have never given me access to your blog. Here I am wishing you a great big Happy Birthday and many many more to come. Have a wonderful day. Love ya lots!!

Maria

Day at the beach!

2007-07-27T02:26:00.000-08:00

Lil Sis and Big Sis enjoying the water...

My Big Sister is so funny..I just love her!!

Olivia with her buddies..

Ohhhh!! The water is cold when it hits my bum!

Olivia and Maria enjoying their day!

This beach stuff is making me exhausted!!

We had a lot of fun at the beach today. Olivia did great. She really enjoyed watching the kids in the water. She also managed about an hour nap! whoo hoo!
We had our gourmet lunch at the beach...peanut butter and jelly sandwiches!!
Next stop,,the ocean. I can't wait to take Olivia there.
I hear someone waking up,so my time is up..Hey at least I got some pictures up, just never have time to write anything..
SEE YA!!

YAY..finally a new post!!!

2007-07-26T01:57:00.000-08:00

Olivia's 2 best buddies..Hannah and Lilly

Hannah insisting on getting the ball from Olivia

Ok, I'll try a different approach!! Can I please have the ball??

I just love Mandarin Oranges!!! YAY!!

The most beautiful BIG sister ever! Just LOVE her!!

My 2 beautiful girls..Last day leaving China..

Finally, a finish product!! YAY!!

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Ok...where does this part go???? Introducing..tweedle D and tweedle Dum...

Hello everyone!! Everything is going great here. Olivia is finally sleeping at night. I had to just try to keep her awake during the day and really limit her naps. Waking her up during her nap was not easy..Cranky butt big time. All in all, she is sleeping well finally. Which means Mommy is finally getting rest also.

We haven't really ventured out any where. We are going to the beach soon and of course I have to take her to the mall. I wanted to stay close to home for a week to get her adjusted to the time change etc. I am sooo ready to venture out to the beach especially,,take her to the park for a picnic..I just can't wait to do some fun things with my girls!!

Ally is doing great!! Just loves having a liitle sister around. It has been a huge adjustment for her as well. I just love her and wouldn't know what I would do without all the help she is giving me. I wouldn't be able to take those nice hot showers!! haha..

I want to give a big shout out to all my China 138 families. I miss you guys!! I can't wait for all of us to get together. Also, my little blogger baby "Hannah", I hope you are feeling better soon. Olivia wants you to come over and play! I'm also missing my Little Lilly. I miss those cute little smiles you gave me in China.

My time is up on here. I have a little one on my lap that won't let me type any more. UGH! My alone time is very limited these days. I'll be in touch!!!
See ya!!

We are home!!!

2007-07-21T02:04:00.000-08:00

So we are home sweet home!! It is so nice to be home in my own bed...BUT I'm not sleeping in it. Olivia wants to sleep all day and play all night. It is just going to take some time to adjust to the time change. In the long run, it is all so well worth it. She is just amazing and his bonding with her big sister very well. We had an absolutely amazing journey. We will never forget it. As soon as things slow down, I'm hoping to do a huge slide show of our amazing journey. As of now, family and friends in and out all weekend. No rest for the wicked!!
Talk soon!!!

Not happy......

2007-07-14T15:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, is this the cutest or what? Just wanted to let you know, she is not always smiling like all the pictures show you. Yes, most of the time she is
We are now in Guangzhou. The weather is extremely hot. We are off to the Banyan Temple where the babies get blessed. I'm off to breakfast.
Be in touch soon~~ Not much time to blog these days..
See ya~~

Having a great time................

2007-07-11T23:38:00.000-08:00

Daddy with his 2 favorite girls. Olivia finally sat on Daddy's lap.

Sisters enjoy their pizza.

Just got done playing with her Big Sister

Hey Everyone,
I have a minute to post. Today we went into the countryside. It was very sad. It really makes you realize how much we do have. The way the people live is just upsetting. We took a bunch of videos on it. I can't wait to watch the videos when we get home. The people get very excited to see the babies. They walk up to you so much and just smile..some stare etc. Not sure what to think of that. We have seen so much these passed few days. Trying to soak it all in. Tomorrow we are heading to the zoo. I hear it is huge. They did tell us, no panda bears.
Our China group is great. We are having so much fun with everyone and their babies. All in all, the babies are doing well with adjusting. It wasn't as bad as we all thought. The bus rides are hell I have to say. So much you can do with the baby on those trips. Just hope that they fall asleep.
Yesterday a tailor came to the hotel and measured our babies for their very own China dress. I did get Olivia a white one for her christening, and I got her and Ally one to match. They are beautiful. We will be getting them on Friday. I will definitely send over some pictures.
Our tour guide is awesome. She really takes good care of us and makes sure we are all happy.
That is all for now. We have to get ready for some paperwork and head on down to dinner. Yes, chinese food. Hey we did have pizza today. My stomach was in shock..it was OK..better than Chinese, just can't wait to go home to some real food. You know, devil dogs and chocolate milk..YES!!!

Gotcha day tomorrow!!!

2007-07-08T06:58:00.000-08:00

Hello there!! So sorry, I just can't get my pictures on my blog. It's a new laptop and I have to figure this out. I may have a block or something on it..not too sure..Anyways, we have been so busy I don't even have time to blog.
Tomorrow is the day we get Olivia...we will get her around 330-4pm China time..
No sleep for me tonight!!! I'm so hoping to post pics tomorrow..if not I will send pics to my friend and she will post them for me on my blog.
See ya!!

Hello From China

2007-07-07T05:52:00.000-08:00

Hello there!! We made it! Arrived here yesterday, but didn't have any time to blog yet. I can say it was the longest day of my life. We flew for 14+ hours, but with the 4 hour layover...made it worse not to mention the 12 hour time change. We were up for over 24 hours. UGH!!
All in all, this place is a whole new world. It is just amazing. Only one more day left, until we finally get to see Olivia. I can't believe it is finally here. We have a day planned tomorrow for more site seeing..then the next day OLIVIA!!!
We visited The Great Wall today, and the Summer Palace. The weather,,well..it was very, very HOT!!
It is very late and I need some serious sleep. I will post a longer post tomorrow if we don't get back too late. They are keeping us very busy and not much time to blog these passed 2 days..
I will post lots of pictures tomorrow.
SEE YA!

We are off!!!!

2007-07-04T23:24:00.000-08:00

We are off to CHINA this morning..WHOO HOOO!! It's finally here! Thank you all for your support. Keep watching for updates. I will be blogging while in China about our journey.

BYE BYE!!!!

Thank you!!!

2007-07-04T16:30:00.001-08:00

My dear friend,
It has been a crazy few months I have to say. As you are reading this, I will be on a plane to China to finally get my daughter. I look back so much and see how many times you have been there for me. You have never judged me, always honest with me,and always there to lend that shoulder. I share all my thoughts and secrets with you and they stay with you and only you. I trust you with all my heart.
You have been my rock and I wouldn't know what I would have done without you helping me through this crazy time. You are an amazing friend that I admire very much and I wish I was more like you. You have many great qualities within you that many do not see. I am very proud to call you Olivia's godmother. I know in you I can trust you with her life. I can trust you to be honest with her and never let her down. That is why I have chosen you. You are a great second "mom" to Allison. She loves you dearly.
Thank you so much for all that you are, for all that you do and for just being here for me....always!!!!!!

1 more day!!! WHOO HOO!!!

2007-07-03T19:26:00.000-08:00

Ok everyone..Only ONE more day until we leave for China YAY!! I can't wait to share this journey with all of you!!! I'll be in touch!!!

6 days til we leave for CHINA!!!

2007-06-29T05:17:00.001-08:00

Just getting ready for our trip of a lifetime. Shopping, packing, cleaning not to mention throwing parties. It has been a crazy couple of weeks. Getting all our carpets cleaned today.YAY!! I just can't believe how much of the "little stuff" you can't forget to bring. I'm doing very well with the packing. Not overpacking like some of my travel buds..haha!! If I don't bring it, I will buy it there, or Colleen will definitely have it!!!!
I do have to thank my friend Maria. She has been such a great help to me this past week. She is my other brain these days. My mind has been all over the place. Trying to remember everything I need to do. I know those of you who are going with us, know exactly what I'm saying. So "Thank you" so much Maria for just being here!
I can't wait to share this journey with everyone while in China. I will definitely be posting pictures on the blog when I am gone.

Travel Group 138

2007-06-20T17:45:00.000-08:00

We had our travel meeting today. Here are all the people we will be traveling with. We got lots of info today, now I need to start moving my butt!!! We all went out for a nice lunch today. I made some new friends. I can't wait to leave..WHOO HOOO!!

We got our travel dates!!!!

2007-06-18T17:13:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone..we finally got our travel dates today. We are leaving on July 5th and returning on the 20th.Whoo hooo!!!

We will be there soon OLIVIA!!!!

Happy Birthday Olivia!!!!!!

2007-06-10T17:34:00.000-08:00

Today Olivia is 9 months old. Happy Birthday Olivia. We will be there SOON to bring you home!!

Memorial Weekend FUN!!!!!

2007-06-01T16:23:00.000-08:00

We had a great family & friends weekend!!!

Here's Ally under the cornhole game!!!

"Ashley and Sage"

"Ashley" 2017 Miss America

"My Ally"

"Graycen"

"Emma Jean"

"Tatum"

"Emily" aka "Skittles"

"Lizzie"

Beautiful Girls!!

2007-05-14T17:41:00.001-08:00

These are 5 beautiful girls who are waiting for us in China. They belong to my friends Sam, Colleen, Brigit, Kathryn and of course ME!! We can't wait to finally be able to hold them and bring them home!

Here she is!!!!!!!!!

2007-05-07T08:12:00.000-08:00

Everybody, I would like you to meet our daughter and little sister, Olivia Grace(Can Bo). She is beautiful!!!!!

Almost there.....

2007-05-06T04:39:00.000-08:00

Ok, I just have to get through today and tomorrow will be here before we know it!! I am so excited to see her picture, you just can't imagine the feeling. After 2 years of waiting. Well, I'm sure Colleen, Sam, Kathy and Bridget understand the excitement.They all got their pictures and info on their daughters this weekend.
They are all beautiful!!
Stay tune for those pictures tomorrow afternoon!

Could be soon.....

2007-04-30T17:59:00.000-08:00

Shopping.....

2007-04-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

Had to do some shopping today. I was out searching for a stroller. I did fine one that I really liked, so I may go pick it up this week. Just can't decide on a color. While I was looking, I picked up a few things of course. 2 of these outfits have those famous ladybugs on them. Told myself no more buying for Olivia unitl that referral..well, we don't know when that is happening so I'm off to spend.

As for the stroller, I did find one, but don't know what color to go with..Colleen's "green" color, or Sam's "pink" color..You help me make the decision and leave me a comment.

Comments..please!

2007-04-01T05:32:00.001-08:00

Ok everybody..I'm going to get angry here. Are you ALL with me or what??? I need some comments on this website of mine. I know you all read it just about everyday.
I'm suppose to be having a baby this week..DID YOU HEAR ME!!! I'm getting that phone call this week..Hello everyone..WAKE UP...leave me a commment......please!!

It's time to go crazy............

2007-03-31T07:58:00.000-08:00

Ok everyone. Hold on, it's going to be a crazy week. Yes indeed, rumor has it we will be getting that call this week some time. I am going out of my mind!! Someone please drug me...2 long years of waiting and it is finally here. Not sure what to do with myself this weekend. As soon as I get that call, you all will know..Thanks so much to everyone who has been standing by my side through this whole thing. I have been a "lil bit" crazy these passed few days..Keep checking the blog for the big announcement!! WHOO HOO!!

Delivery.....

2007-03-23T15:33:00.000-08:00

Look what I got delivered to my house today. I am having very bad anxiety these days and it is interfering with my sleeping. This should definitely do the trick. One case=12 bottles, I have 12 days of waiting..One bottle per day until referral. I think I can handle that! Grab me some pineapple juice and some blue curacao and I got myself my favorite drink.

This is exactly what I am drinking right now! YUMMY! Anyone care to join me?

Ok, now on the serious side. I did get a delivery the other day from my friend Colleen who will be traveling with us to China to get her daughter Hannah.
She sent Ally this wonderful "big sister" shirt and Olivia these cute pair of sneakers that I did want to buy for Olivia, but I didn't get them. So Colleen went and bought them for Hannah. So, she was nice enough to buy a pair for Olivia too. These girls have so many outfits alike that they will look like twins in China. Thanks so much Colleen!!

.

Impatient..........ME

2007-03-21T18:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, so we all thought it might be an easier wait this time around being we are definietly in the next batch...Well guess what?? IT'S NOT!! It just sucks. The wait is endless. The wait these passed 2 weeks is much more worse than I could ever imagine. Call me impatient..VERY much!
Don't get me wrong, I'm very excited to be next..but thought the wait would be a lil bit more easier this time around. Are you freaking kidding me? Just put me out of my misery and call me to tell me you found my daughter...WTF. My head is about to explode..(that explains the blue guy)...After waiting 22 mos..you would think 2 weeks is a breeze. Think again!
Ok,,just wanted to put in my 2 cents. Thank you for listening...;-)

Getting closer....

2007-03-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

This is just how I'm feeling today!

Ladies and Gentlemen, we are down to 2....

2007-03-18T13:57:00.000-08:00

2 more weeks that is until we see Olivia's face. Olivia who you say? Well, it's that beautiful little girl in China who we have all been patiently waiting for, for about 22 mos. now! Yes, my friends, I promise not to be such a basket case once I see that referral, I'll be even worse but in a good and extremely happy way.Sorry to all of you that have been putting up with me these passed couple of months. The next couple months will be even worse...just a warning!!

On another note, those of you who read my blog..and I know it is a whole bunch of you. I need to see some comments. Instructions, click on the comments button on the bottom of this message..click on "other" and put in your name..no need to put in a website...it is as easy as that!! Looking forward to hearing from you all!!

On a sad note. Here's to "Symba" dog. We will miss you very much. My brother-in-law and family lost their dog this morning very suddenly. She will be deeply missed!! She was an awesome dog to have and touched all of our hearts!!
This picture was taken a few years back of Jennifer (left), Ally (middle) and Kelly (right)..Ally's cousins.They look so cute...and of course our very own Symba dog!!

Shower time.......

2007-03-16T10:18:00.000-08:00

My in-laws got together for a brunch and had a little shower for me. I got some beautiful things..Way too much to show you all. Here are some of the goodies I did recieve. My neice gave me this pacifier which means "sweetheart" in chinese.Too cute!
Thanks so much to Gramma Nancy, Auntie Lizzy, Auntie Mary and all my other relatives and friends for making this day wonderful!!!
P.S. I think my friends are giving me a shower, but they are not telling me anything, they are very mean like that!!!

2 1/2 weeks and counting....

2007-03-15T09:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, so the thing is, I am very excited, eager, and antsy. I need this time to fly bye very quickly. Any suggestions?? I just can't wait to see Olivia's face. The time is just not going fast enough for me. Yeah, I know, I'm never happy...Haha. Just knowing that I will get that call soon, the time isn't cooperating with me at all. I just need to keep myself a 'lil bit' more busy than I am now. I'm guessing the mall and drinking may do the trick! Down to 2 1/2 more weeks. It's feeling like a lifetime! UGH!

3 Weeks and counting.....

2007-03-10T08:13:00.000-08:00

Please, please, please March go by fast!!! I am going to make sure this month goes by fast!! I can't believe we are next. It is such an exciting feeling to know, we will get that call. No more wondering, just a lil bit of waiting. So, here's to only 3 more weeks until we finally see Olivia's face!! Whoo hoo!

We are next!!!!

2007-03-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

Ok, it's offical. We did not make the cut off to get our match. We missed it by four days! Just a few more weeks to wait. Am I upset..a "lil bit" but it is such a great feeling just knowing for sure we are next. So being upset right now isn't worth it. The wait this time is going to be less stressful and a much more exciting wait I must say!! Just knowing that we will make the cut off next..well let's say, I'm doing the happy dance! So I say "HOORAY" we are offically,,,finally,,,without a doubt NEXT!!!

Someday soon....

2007-03-04T17:46:00.000-08:00

Someday soon......I will be able to hold 2 daughters in my arms.

Very tired.......

2007-03-01T17:43:00.000-08:00

Still waiting for those referrals to come in. Wishing so much we will be matched with a baby next week! I'm just getting very tired. They are saying the end of next week. What's another week after you have waited almost 2 years. I just need some news quickly so I can fall asleep faster at night..UGH!!!

The Magic Number....

2007-02-28T14:46:00.000-08:00

This is the number we need to see!!! Come on CCAA get to Oct 28th and I will be one very happy girl!!! Rumors have it referrals (matches) may be out sometime next week. So, I'm off to buy another bottle of anxiety pills!

Hoping we are next..............

2007-02-25T17:13:00.000-08:00

Come on CCAA get those referrals to go to Oct. 28th. That is our date. They stopped last month on Oct 13th..so they only have to do 15 days of matching. Can they do it? I so believe we are next!!! Either this week or next week we will hear something..Keeping my fingers crossed..and toes too!!
It's been a very long and difficult wait. I guess if we don't make the cut off date, we will definitely be next 100% and get our match in April. Do I really want to wait another month?? Are you freaking kidding me! HELL NO! Olivia is coming...I can feel it!!!

Positive Vibes...........

2007-02-16T16:19:00.000-08:00

I have been on pins and needles these days and still have to wait about 2 more weeks to find out if we have been matched with a daughter. The matches should be coming out the first week in March. If we don't make the cut off date, then 100% we will be matched in April. I just have a very good feeling that we are going to be next and hear something in about 2 weeks. One can only hope and pray for that phone call to come!! The waiting these days is making me very NUTSO....I'm driving some people crazy!!! ; -)

Above are a box of chocolate covered fortune cookies I got in my mail box Weds. from my friend Tarra..Thanks a bunch Tarra!!!! Don't forget, I still like those Andes Candies...whoo hooo!