Following the Red Thread

Five Wonderful Years

2011-02-18T21:00:00.000-08:00

Celebrating five years with our little beauty. We are so lucky and blessed to have YOU in our lives. We wouldn't be the same without you. You are witty, smart, creative, athletic, and joyous. We cherish every day with you!

December 2010

2010-12-28T19:27:00.000-08:00

Hope your December was a good one. We had so many highlights, and a few lowlights. I was diagnosed with Pnuemonia on my Birthday - the 4th and it took most of the month to recover. It was really slow going and I ended up being much sicker that I thought I ever could be. I am just now getting my energy back. Thank goodness I did much of my shopping/ Christmas Prep prior to Thanksgiving. Brody and the kids pitched in a lot and got the tree up and decorated. They also frosted cookies and did outside decorations. Brody threw in some strep throat of his own the week before Christmas - we were quite a pair lying on the couch watching way to many movies.

We hosted my parents and Brody's for Christmas Eve/Day and the kids had a blast. We all did, they are so fun to watch this time of year. You know it's a good Christmas when they say "I got everything I wanted". Thanks, because we worked really hard to pull things together this year.

Jax has his Birthday coming up this weekend. Hard to believe he will be 4. Then we are off to the Dells for our Peed Family Holiday festivities.

We hope you have a happy & healthy New Year!

Love & Hugs!

The Peeds

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Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T19:36:00.000-07:00

Addie was a kitty and Katara the water bender from Avatar (the cartoon - not the blue people). She is our resident Anime lover. Jax was a ninja and a zookeeper. We had something trick-or-treat related with school or the community everynight this week. So we were busier than usual. We also hosted a fun Halloween party today with our friends. Everyone had a great time and ate way too much food and candy. Back to work/school tomorrow. Hope you had a great Halloween too!

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First Day of Kindergarten

2010-09-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

Addie started Kindergarten this morning. She is so lucky to have an awesome teacher - we are excited. She will be attending all day. She is can't wait for computer class, gym class, and she is working hard to learn to read. Here are a few photos from this morning. Unfortunately it was a rainy first day, but it didn't seem to dampen her spirit.

Two Wonderful Years

2010-08-24T20:02:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks two year with our beautiful, sweet boy Jax. Although we had a tough start in China it has been smooth sailing ever since. He is alway there with a hug or waiting for a snuggle. Notice how he is cuddling with me the first day - he still does it and I love it :) I call him our little monkey. He has many nicknames, but lately the nickname of choice is Noodle. Mostly because he loves anything pasta, but also because when he is tired he just flops like a wet noodle. He has blossomed so much this summer - riding a bike, swimming like a fish, and talking up a storm. We our blessed to have our Jackson Noodle in our life forever. Enjoy some photos from the last 2 years. To my fellow XingFu Seadogs '08 - Happy Two Years!

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Olympics 2020?

2010-05-19T18:55:00.000-07:00

Addie is so determined - she has mastered the monkey bars and now the rings. I have to get this girl into gymnastics. She may be little, but man she is strong. I stopped filming, but she turned around without stopping and went all the way back across :) Jackson is the same way - so strong, especially his upper body.

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Spring 2010

2010-04-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry, it's been awhile since I have posted. We are all well - we have been really busy. Life is just flying by. Here are some highlights from our Spring so far. I came home from work today and Addie & Daddy surprised me! Addie is riding a 2-wheeler. Wow, so big. 4 years ago she was just taking her first steps - now look at her.

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Four Fabulous Years

2010-02-19T18:51:00.000-08:00

Really has it been four years? I still remember walking into that conference room in Nanchang waiting for the babies to arrive. We spotted Addie right away - couldn't miss those checks.

Addie & Daddy

Addie & Mommy

1st Family Snapshot

1st Gotcha Anniversary [2007]

2nd Gotcha Anniversary [2008]

3rd Gotcha Anniversary [2008]

4 Years!!

We are headed to the railroad show and the circus tomorrow to celebrate! We are still in awe that this beautiful, smart. kind-hearted little girls is ours. We are so blessed.

Happy New Year!

2010-02-14T19:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Chinese New Year - Welcome Year of the Tiger!

Probably time to take the Christmas decor down off the blog. We had a great Valentine's Day. My sweetie bought me a new point and shoot camera so I hope to take more candid photos again. I have really been slacking since since my old camera died. Thanks honey :)

We spent some time in the kitchen this weekend getting ready for Addie's Chinese New Year party at school tomorrow. I made a tiger cake and some cupcakes. Addie decorated her own cake for our family. She said we got extra sprinkles because she loves us so much. Sprinkles = love - I like that. Tomorrow we are going to read some books to her class, make dragon masks, do a dragon dance parade, and eat cake, yum!

We also went out to our favorite local place for Chinese food. Dinner was awesome - lots of leftovers too. My favorite part of going out for Chinese - the leftovers.

Here's a few photos:

Sad Day...

2010-01-15T22:16:00.000-08:00

It is a sad day for our family today. We had to say goodbye to our sweet girl, Harley. We'll miss you "Puppa D"!

I hope you are in heaven chasing clouds and eating chocolate. We love you!

Harley

2001-2010

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Pray for Haiti

2010-01-13T20:02:00.000-08:00

Please keep Haiti and the Haitian people in your prayers. Many families from our church have adopted or are adopting from Haiti, and they have received little or no news regarding the plight of their children. Central also sponsors an orphanage in Haiti that we know has been damaged, we do not know of any casualties or injuries. Finally, we sponsor a little girl, Fabiene who is 9 - we have not heard anything regarding her or her family.

Please Pray.

Thanks!

The Peed Family

Belated Holiday Wishes!

2009-12-29T11:46:00.000-08:00

Sorry all for the late infrequent updates. Life has been busy. This is the first year in about 15 years that I didn't get a holiday card out. Perhaps a New Year's card.

We had a wonderful holiday and are looking forward to meeting up Brody's side of the family for New Years at an area waterpark. Jackson will be 3 on Jan. 3rd, so we have a birthday to celebrate as well. The kids seemed happy with their gifts. Addie got the American Girl doll, Chrissa that she asked Santa for and Jackson got his "car" - Cozy Coupe from Nana & Poppa. I have been having fun with them during my time off from school. Addie is enjoying her school break as well. Jackson will start preschool in January - 2 days per week, where he will continue with his speech therapy. They are doing such good work with him - his speech has come so far. I have noticed being home with him that he has become such a little chatterbox. So thanks to Melissa (his Birth to 3 therapist), we will miss you. Now he will recieve services through our local school district. God is so good to have blessed us with such knowledgable people right in our own backyard.

Here are some pictures from Christmas and the weeks leading up to the holiday. Enjoy!

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Happy Holidays from Us to You!

2009-12-18T22:38:00.000-08:00

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Harley Update

2009-11-15T14:29:00.000-08:00

Harley is home :) She is much more of her old self - even kind of perky. We are still giving her IV fluids at home and antibiotics; they will check her blood counts again Monday night. We did have her tested for leptospirosis, lymes disease and diabetes. We will know more on Monday. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers.

Prayer Request

2009-11-13T20:32:00.000-08:00

Please pray for our furry family member Harley - she is overnight at the local Animal Hospital suffering from Acute Renal Failure. We aren't sure why - no anti-freeze, raisins, grapes, or other toxins. Her BUN levels - to quote the vet "were the highest she had ever seen in a live animal". They were over 100 - even if they can reverse this - we are not sure if she will have enough kidney function left.

We were all crying at the vet's office tonight - we were there for almost 3 hours. Tomorrow I take my state exams for my counseling license - what awful timing as my mind will be on Harley. Brody is going to check on her in the morning and they will run her levels again.

Please keep her in your prayers and our kids too - they were scared she had to stay at the vet's office.

Boo! Happy Halloween.

2009-10-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

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Happy Fall!!!

2009-10-27T19:32:00.000-07:00

We were able to get out and take a few photos this past weekend. The kids are growing and changing so much - enjoy!

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First Day of 4K

2009-09-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

Addie is at her first morning of Kindergarten right now!!! Hoping to post pictures in a few minutes. She seemed OK going in. Her class seemed big - she seemed so little :( A little boy started pulling her ponytail on the rug right before the parents left - ah Kindergarten hasn't changed a bit.

One year later - Jaxie's Day

2009-08-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

One year ago I walked into the civil affairs office in Nanjing China - feeling a little disoriented, and missing my hubby (who was home with our daughter) like crazy. It was a big room, and there were a few children there already, but I didn't see Jackson. Then I noticed a little boy sitting peacefully with his nanny, partially hidden behind a wooden partition. It. was. him. [insert tears of joy here] :)

He came to me with no reservations what-so-ever. We had a difficult beginning in China, getting to know each other, Jackson grieving, and physically not feeling all that great. But, from the minute we got home he just settled right in.

He is soooooooooo sweet, has a great sense of humor, and is very charming. He has grown 7 inches and gained almost 10 pounds. He has a huge vocabulary now and is making great strides in speech therapy. He loves trains, swimming, and books. We are truly blessed beyond measure to have Jackson Reece TaoChuan in our life.

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June/July Update

2009-06-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

Hello-
Sorry we've been away for awhile. All is going well. We are getting into the swing of summer. The temps have been crazy; cold, then mid-90s last week, now cold again. We are either in pants or not leaving the pool. We are managing to fill up our days with organization projects (the house slipped into disarray when Mommy returned to work), playing, gardening, berry picking, trips to the zoo, and hanging out with family and friends.

Kids update:
Addie - received her notice that she will be attending our local 4 Year Old Kindergarten this fall - every morning, every day. This will be a big change from pre-school (two afternoons/ week), but we think she is ready. The nice thing is that the 4K-site is right behind our house. She is swimming like a fish this summer, head under the water and no life-jacket in the pool. She love chewing gum, bright nail polish, wearing dresses, her fuzzy blanket and kitty (strawberry), singing, dancing, painting, Disney movies, and Sunday school.

Jax - our sweet little guy is growing up. He has grown 6 inches and gained 10lbs since coming home last September. He is a totally different kid. He is very outgoing, and always has a smile waiting with his adorable dimples. I finally had to cut his thick, shaggy locks - it made me sad to see all the hair go, but it is much cooler for the summer. He is now saying two and three word sentences, and is a star student at speech therapy. He wants to do everyting himself - lots of "I do it" going on. He is also a fish - very calm in the water. He loves to put his face in and float on his back. Jax loves to swing, play cars and trains, blow bubbles, snuggle with his fuzzy, fix things with his "tools", and cuddle with everyone.

We are taking a few trips this summer - up north to my parents cabin and to Iowa for a family wedding. So we will log many hours in the car over the next few weeks. I start my new job August 6th, so about one month left to play :)

Here's a few scrapbook pages of the kids:

Creative Mojo

2009-05-22T22:11:00.000-07:00

My creative juices are finally flowing again. Must be because my life is getting back to normal. I'm so excited to share that I found a High School Counseling position. What a huge burden off my mind. I am really excited about the district that I will be working for as well.

Here are some new scrapbook pages. All with Jackson - the poor little guy is WAY behind his big sister in page features.

Enjoy!

Mother's Day

2009-05-17T21:37:00.000-07:00

I haven't scrapbooked in ages - thought I would share. We had a great Mother's Day - I am so proud and blessed to call these two kiddos mine.

Happy Easter

2009-04-27T19:44:00.000-07:00

We are running a few weeks behind, but I wanted to share these pictures and videos of the kids.

In Addie's words "Jesus is alive"! Indeed HE is. It is so wonderful to see her proclaim these three words as she skips around our kitchen.

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Somebody is turning FOUR tomorrow!

2009-04-06T12:05:00.001-07:00

How can she be four already... it seems like just yesterday she was turning one. Now she loves Disney princess, eating with chopsticks, nail polish, singing everything (her life is a musical), and is looking forward to a new "big girl" bike. I just can't believe it.

I asked her today if she thought she would feel different tomorrow because she will be four - she said, "Yes mom, I will be old". Too funny. I am going to try to video an interview with her later - she's a hoot.

Here's her party invite for this weekend. I like how it turned out.

Really, Three Years?

2009-02-19T13:34:00.000-08:00

Three years ago today, we met our beautiful, baby girl in Nanchang, China. She has blossomed from baby to toddler, to a preschooler. I can't believe how much she has changed, and how much we have changed because she is part of our life. Our love grows everyday, we are so blessed to have you, sweet girl.

[Nanchang, China 02/19/2006]

[02/19/2009 at Home]

Scrapbook Kit - True Love

2009-02-02T18:55:00.000-08:00

So my Sweet P Studio blog is not finished yet, hopefully soon, but I didn't want to wait on this freebie. I had a lot of fun creating this kit. I would love some feedback. Please post your feedback, or links to you layouts in the comments section. I can't wait to see what you all do with the kit. Enjoy!

{Download the Elements}

{Download the Solid Papers}
{Download the Patterned Papers}

Happy New Year - 2009 - Year of the Ox

2009-01-28T12:41:00.001-08:00

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Brrr....

2009-01-16T20:19:00.000-08:00

Wow - it has been so cold here. We headed to Shriner's as 4am this morning for Jackson's surgery. We took some photo's of the temperature gauge at the bank by our house. -24 degrees. On our way back into town this afternoon, it was a balmy -4. You have lived in the Midwest too long when -4 feel warm. It is supposed to be in the 20's/30's this weekend - I might need to get out the kiddie pool - just kidding.

I can't say enough awesome things about Shriner's. We are so blessed to be part of their program. Jax got his ear tubes put in today and they were so wonderful with him. He is such a trooper and tolerated the surgery so well. He was back to his cheery little self after sleeping off the anesthesia for about an hour. It sounded like he gave them a run for their money in the recovery room though. He is not fond of being woke up, much less by strangers - even the nicest ones. I think he seemed shocked by just how loud his sister really is this afternoon. We love her to no end, but she has no volume control. (Does anyone else have a super loud 3 or 4 year old - do they learn to manage their volume?)

Here are some pictures from our day:

New Look, New Year

2009-01-13T20:54:00.000-08:00

Happy belated 2009! No, we haven't fallen off the face of the earth, but if it gets much colder here... Just kidding.

We are easing into the new year, a year of transition for me. Leaving my job after eight years has been difficult, but I am teaching off and on and looking for a full time position for next year. Addie is doing great a pre-school, what a difference winter break has made in her approach to school. No more tears - yeah. Jax is doing really well- he is getting his ear tubes put in Friday morning so keep us in your thoughts. It sounds pretty simple, we are hoping everything goes smoothly. He is doing wonderful in speech therapy, so the tubes should really help with his articulation. He is trying to say/mimic everything lately.

Our little guy is TWO - welcome toddlerhood. He has grown so much over the last four months at home with us. He has gained about 6.5 pounds, and has grown at least two inches. His hair is coming in thick and shiny, no more baby fuzz. We celebrated at our favorite Chinese restaurant. This is quite a change from last year when we celebrated there with his referral picture. Now we have the real thing and he is just the best son and little brother we could have ever dreamed of. We are doubly blessed.
We are looking forward to this new year with hope and optimism, we are definitely ready for some CHANGE! Only a week to go.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T21:59:00.000-08:00

I hope that you all had a wonderful holiday. We certainly did. It was such a blessing to have our Jackson with us this holiday season. He made the most of every moment and still lit up with a smile when I turned on the tree today. He was probably wondering where the present where.

He is filled with such sweetness and love. Just like his big sister. We started our celebrating early this year with Great Grandma Bea's all family gathering, plus it was her 87th Birthday. The kids had fun seeing, and meeting their extended family and playing with their cousins. Lisa and Luke stayed with us for the weekend and we had our Christmas together as they were heading home to be with Luke's family this year.

Christmas Eve was nice and low key. I spent the day cooking/ prepping for Christmas while Brody hung out with the kids. We attended the childrens service at church and Addie was mesmerized by the live nativity and Christmas story, especially the angels. She even went up front by herself for the childrens liturgy, such a big girl this year. We came home, had a little supper and got ready for Santa - hand picked cookies (gingerbread man and reindeer), chocolate milk (it's the best), and food for the reindeer.

Addie woke at 6:50am Christmas morning, Jax likes to sleep until 8 or 8:30am. So we kept Addie entertained until 7:30 and brought down a very groggy Jackson for presents. He did great and was soon diving into the paper and tearing open presents like a champ. I think the favorite gifts are the Fur Real Panda and baby Chou Chou(Addie) and anything with wheels(Jackson).

Christmas day we had my parents, Brody's parents and our friend Russ over for dinner and of course, more presents. It was so special to be with our family and share this holiday, Jackson's first with us, with them as well. If I had to sum up our holiday season this year in just a few words they would be thankful and blessed - I feel this way everyday, but especially on Christmas.

Here are a few pictures from our holiday:

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Adoption Finalized - Check

2008-12-16T20:50:00.000-08:00

Next step citizenship - or the certificate of citizenship anyway. He is a citizen with the re-adoption/finalization. He was the cutest resident alien I have ever known though, but we are ready to move on to the next step. It was a unique coincidence that almost two years ago to the day, we were in the same court room - different judge, readopting Addison. Who know if we will be there again in two years :)

We made a festive family day of it - family photos, courthouse and pictures, stopping through the social security office to order up a card for Jax, and finally a celebratory lunch at A & W. The kids had the cutest mini rootbeers.

Today was Addie's Christmas program at school it was too cute. If I ever learn how to get video from my video camera to my computer I will share.

Here are some pictures from Jackson's re-adoption - enjoy!

Elf Hijinx!

2008-12-10T21:22:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Rolling into the Holidays

2008-12-04T21:24:00.000-08:00

Our favorite time of year is here. First, where did November go? Wow it went so fast!! We had a lovely, and low key Thanksgiving with my parents this year. The kids also got to visit with their cousins and attend the local lighted holiday parade. It was a lot of fun. Monday my MOPs group had an outing to see Dora and Diego at the local mall. It was a character packed day as we saw Santa and Chuck E. Cheese as well.

Now we are all sick. Too many germs apparently. Jax has a double ear infection, Addie a nasty cough, and I picked up pink eye (probably from the doctors office). We are battling through and hoping to finish the holiday decorations this weekend.

I hope you like the new look. Please check out the credits below (scroll to the bottom of the blog). The designer, Summer Driggs, is offering this kit for a charity donation to benefit a friend's sick child. A very touching story - please visit her site.

Love & Hugs!

P.S. I will post pictures soon!

Long time, no update...

2008-11-23T18:53:00.000-08:00

Hello! We're still here. We are trying to adjust to the weather, and the time change. It seems as though winter is on us - full strength. It's dark so early - ugh! What happened to fall?? It sounds like we might actually see the mid to upper 40s on Thanksgiving. That will feel balmy.

The kids have been crazy and couped up. We have tried to stay busy with play dates, preschool, and trips to the McDonalds's play land. We have seen several flakes and flurries the last few weeks, but nothing has really stuck around.

Brody has been working away from home, on and off for the last few weeks so that has been a bummer. The kids miss him and so do I. We can't wait to get him back home. Single parenting is tough. Even the dog is lonely.

Funny stuff:

Addison and Daddy watched the movie "Hook" (non-animated Peter Pan) and I caught her trying to swing on the curtains. She said, "Mama, I need to learn this stuff so I can be a pirate"! What aspirations :)

Jackson's has started to watch TV - not sure if this is a good thing, but he is really into Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

Jax has also started to make up his own signs for his fuzzy, night night, and brushing teeth. He is so sweet and adorable. We call him "the hugger" - it is obvious why. Such a cuddle bug.

We have seen Santa twice already - Addie told him she wants roller skates and a Barbie castle with a carriage (she already has the carriage, but asks for it anyway) I think she thinks they have to come together. Thank you TV commercials. Jax wants anything that Addie wants for Christmas because he thinks she is cool:)

They are keeping me busy - some days I feel like a referee - but they both are so sweet most of the time.

Pictures since last time:

[Hanging out behind the curtain]

[The hugger - looking for his next victim]

[Addie - going down the slide at swim class]

[Look at me!]

[The last warm, fall day]

[I love Santa]

[Daddy & Jax]

More Closet Cleaning

2008-11-06T19:43:00.001-08:00

I have listed more outfits on eBay - mostly 2T. Several holiday dresses. Also a great diaper bag from Kecci.

[Click Here to View My Auctions]

[Kecci Shanghai Mommy Diaper Bag]

[Asian Pattern Holiday Dress by Wee Winter Woolies]

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

We had a great Halloween. We trick-or-treated several times this week. We started with the downtown trick-or-treat last weekend with Auntie Lee and Uncle Luke. Addie had a costume day at pre-school on Thursday. Today we put on our family costumes and hit the neighborhood. Nana, Poppa, Grandma, Russie and the Gunnink girls made an appearance. We also meet up with some neighbors along the way. As you can see, I think the kids had a great time and we did too. I had fun putting together Brody's costume - way too much hot glue :0

Shriner's went great yesterday. As Brody said when we left - everyone that works there will be going to heaven for sure! They were so thorough and wonderful. The great news is nothing major on Jackson's mouth until he is 6 or 7 and will need a bone graft to accommodate his adult teeth. The not so good news is that his hearing is not great - some fluid in both ears that has compromised his ability to hear clearly. So tubes are in our near future. Pretty quick surgery and it sounds like it makes a huge difference with speech. Not sure if we will do it hear or down there, I guess wherever we can get in soonest. The best part of our whole visit was with the pediatric dentist who noticed some decay on one of Jax's teeth - he said that can't wait and got us an appointment in his private practice office later the same day, at no charge - he is spectacular with kids. I so wish he were closer. He even sent a princess toothbrush home for Addie. What a nice guy. I have to agree with Brody - Shriner's are amazing!!!!!

Onto the pictures:

Headed to Shriner's

2008-10-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

Think about us tomorrow as we head off to Shriner's bright and early for Jackson's all day cleft lip/ cleft palate consultation. I have heard very good things and my expectations are high. His palate looks very good in my opinion so I hope that we get good new, ie. no surgeries for a few years at least. Still I am a little nervous because they will be poking and prodding my little guy. They sounds so nice on the phone - they even offered us a ride the hospital which I thought was above and beyond. We will be forever in debt to the kindness of the Shriner's I feel.

It will be weird to be a family of three tomorrow as Addie will be with Grandma and Grandpa because it is costume day at preschool and she didn't want to miss that. Plus an all day appointment would have been very boring for her anyway - better to stay home and eat candy with the grandparents :)

Only two days until Halloween - wait until you see our family. We are straight out of Oz.

Love & Hugs!

Items for Sale

2008-10-19T19:51:00.001-07:00

We are cleaning out closets around here, Addie's in particular because she grew several inches this summer. I have a lot of nice items listed on eBay - mostly Children's Place and Gymboree. All are 18 Mos, 24 Mos, or 2T. I also have several nice pairs of toddler size 5 & 6 shoes that are like new. If you buy multiple item I will combine shipping and save you quite a bit.

Hopefully we will raise a little money for the holidays and those lovely post-placement costs :)

Check out our Auctions [Click Here]

I've Been Tagged - Thanks Larua L.

2008-10-16T18:04:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Laura at A Joyful Family, . I am supposed to share 7 random and/or weird facts about myself.

1) I have completed 12 years of college. Yes, I really should be a doctor by now. I have a bachelors (4.5 years with a triple major), then I did an associates program in web design (1.5 years), finally I completed my Masters this May (I picked away part-time for 6 years, while working full-time). No more school for awhile.

2) I married my High School sweetheart. It doesn't happen much these days. We have been married for 9 years and together for 15 years.

3) I am very nerdy and a computer geek. My husband knows this b/c of the amount of time I spend on the computer. I would much rather build a website than watch TV!

4) I still gag when I change poppy diapers. TMI, I know. I act all cool and collected, especially if changing them in front of hubs b/c he is really dramatic about the poop. Yuck!!

5) My first car was a 1983 Plymouth Reliant, not very cool, but hey I had wheels.

6) I like to eat peanut butter on a spoon dipped in chocolate chips - a guilty pleasure. I don't do this often and I could probably buy a Reese's. It would be easier right.

7) I am already dreaming about adopting another little one, ssshhhh! Don't tell my husband. I watch Adoption Story when the kids are napping. The cutest little girl from Ethiopia was adopted on todays show, but I digress...

Hmmm. Who to tag:

Laura G. @ Our Family of Five (Feel better Laura and family)
Kelly @ The Bloomquist Family Blog
Kimberley @ Lucky Family of Four
Lisen @ Guo Ji Familia
Pam @ Pamster's Planet

We'll I can only thinks of five right now - maybe I will add a few more later.

Blog Design Fun & Pics!

2008-10-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

Wow this blog makeover stuff is fun! Kind of addicting actually. I have been reading a lot of tutorials and got some great ideas from the Blogger Help on how to add different things like the signature and the divider image. For those that are interested I bought the graphics from Shabby Miss Jenn Designs and they have a great video tutorial on blog makeover basics. There are several sites that do blog make overs, but this seemed much cheaper, although more time consuming. The good news is that now I can do it myself in the future... if I remember how. Maybe I will start doing it for my friends :)

And of course... pictures!!!

[So Handsome!]

[There's a reason we call her turkey!]

[Hangin' with Daddy - Apple Orchard]

[Chillin' at Home]

[Gator Surfing??]

[Ridin' the Range]

[First Day of Pre-School]

[At the Zoo]

[Holy Pumpkin Batman]

[Addie of the Corn ;)]

Welcome Fall!

2008-10-07T21:16:00.001-07:00

We are brushing off the dust, no really we loved our old design. Thanks again Melissa. But I couldn't resist trying my own with the help of Shabby Miss Jenn Designs. I'm still working out the kinks. Let me know what you think!

Yes, I will post pictures of the kids soon. We have been very busy enjoying a beautiful, albeit warm fall!

Hope all is well with you!

Tracy

Our Second Week Together

2008-09-19T11:16:00.000-07:00

Things are still going pretty good. Jackson is melding into the family a little more everyday. He and Addison now have some exchanges that resemble playing together which is very cute. She would love to drag him all over the house, dress him, feed him etc. She is such a helper and is being a pretty good sport about her fall from the "pedestal" she is still and drama queen, but gosh I missed all that drama and chatter while I was away.

We have had some weird weather ups and down the last week highs from the 60's to the 80's. This week and next look gorgeous and warm. Not quite fall yet. Although I am getting excited for fall and Halloween with the kids.

Great news! We got Jackson into Shriner's to see their cleft team - they are awesome and we feel so blessed to be part of their program. Our first visit is at the end of October.

Here are some pictures from this last week:

Mmmm Oreo's

Tightrope Addie

Awesome Big Sister

Making Music Together

Cheese

Whoa - is it supposed to do this?

Preppy Boy

Mmmm - Popsicle

My favorite silly face - Eeeeeeeeee!

Wow - this place is full service :)

Let There Be Sleep!!

2008-09-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Yeah - I cannot believe that he is sleeping through the night - hopefully I am not jinxing myself, ut it feels great as I am getting caught up on sleep too! We have been having fun - hanging out with our neighbors and family. Jackson is doing well I think - less drama every day. Addie is adjusting - she really likes to introduce her little brother and is quite possessive/protective over him it's cute.

I like to watch him navigating the house, finding his favorite spots and working his way into all the little spaces.

He is becoming Daddy's boy and gets really excited when Brody is home for lunch or at the end of the day.

Some pictures from our week (that's what you really like anyway, right!)

I am already fixin' stuff around the house

I also clean up afterward - I'm told I'm quite a catch :)

Splish - Splash

Still not sure about the sand, but the toys are fun!

Cool Dude!

Big Sister - She's so proud!

My favorite face - Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Playing at the park!

Home at Last!

2008-09-06T20:21:00.000-07:00

Thanks everyone for the prayers - they definitely helped as we had a very, very good trip home. Jackson slept from Guangzhou to Shanghai (2 hours), he slept 11 of the 14 hours from Shanghai to Atlanta, and he slept the 2 hours from Atlanta to Chicago. The only hitch we had on our trip, besides carrying and checking our bags three times was an extra two hours on our Atlanta layover. We didn't get into Chicago until Friday morning at 12:30am. With that said the little guy was wide awake for the ride home, but he did great in the car seat as long as I gave him Cheerios.

He seemed to like Daddy right away, so that was a BIG relief to me. We finally got into bed around 3am and slept until 10:30am Friday morning. That afternoon he played with the neighbor boys while we waited for his big sister, Addie to get home. She was so excited - Auntie Lee brought her down from up north and it was truly a very awesome and emotional moment holding them both in my arms. They are doing really, really good together. Sleeping last night was another story. Jackson was up at 10, 11, 12:30, 3, 3:30 and finally for good at 6:30 this morning. My sister promptly fled the chaos - just kidding. She vacuumed the house, played with the kids while we clean up and then headed home. Huge thanks to Auntie Lee.

Jackson also met Brody's parents and will hopefully meet my parents - Nana and Poppa this weekend when they get home.

Tonight in our "keep Jackson awake" all day mission we went to the Folk and Blues festival at the college where I work, it was fun as always! Addie danced like crazy and Jackson bopped along and ate more Cheerios. He seems to be doing good at this point. The only one he is not to keen on right now is Harley the dog. Hopefully we succeeded in our mission and he will sleep tonight as we are both very tired.

Thanks for the support!

Love,

Tracy (Brody, Addison & Jackson)

Meeting Daddy

Holding my babies!

Home at last!

Am I a big sister now - You sure are!

Checking out the sandbox

Bubble Time

Man this place is great - free wagon rides!!

Baba I'm Coming Home!

2008-09-03T07:04:00.000-07:00

[Is this how I travel to the USA?]

And big sister Addie too! I can't believe it is done. Although I think the hardest part will be the 26 hours of travel with this crunchy little man. We will fall into Baba's arms at 10:50pm. It will also be our 9th Wedding Anniversary - so two special days all in one. Please pray for a peaceful, uneventful trip home. This little guy does not do travel well - I just hope he can find some peace during the long 15 hour international flight and be able to get some sleep.

We took the oath at the consulate this afternoon - hard not to get emotional about that. I have his passport with his visa just waiting to check into our flight tomorrow morning. We leave the hotel at 7am - our flight is at 9:30am.

We can't wait to see everyone very soon!

Tracy & Jackson

Taking our oath at the consulate

It's for you - we are really low on toys

See you soon!

Almost Home!

2008-09-02T06:17:00.000-07:00

We had our consulate appointment this morning - or rather Grace our guide did. All the families just wait in their room for the OK. We had breakfast at the WS buffet - I am so tired of buffet. Although they have the best apples I have ever tasted. Then we hit the play room for about an hour - this was very fun - so many adoptive families their with their kids. We met families from Washington, Kentucky, New York, D.C, and Arizona so far. Jackson's favorite toys are the piano and the kitchen. He seems to play well with other kids, but is always checking to make sure I'm nearby. It is one of the few places that he allows me to put him down. I got the all clear at about 11:30am - it's official - he is ours. We pick up his passport and visa tomorrow when we say the oath.

We only had a few battles today. Mostly over the stroller and the high chair. Sometimes he is so stubborn that he will launch into a huge fit over something little. We tried to go swimming again, but the pool was closed due to thunder and lightening. Maybe tomorrow. Laura G. and I did shop a little bit, but Jackson is NOT a shopper so that will certainly be evident in the amount of souvenirs that I bring home.

So a bit about Jackson - he is little. Trunk rich - aka very long torso, little short legs as my friend Lisen would say. He has cute spiky hair and tiny little feet (size 3). He is crazy flexible and can do somersaults and climb playground equipment with ease. He is very drooly - just like Addie was - maybe worse - he is teething.

Jackson likes:
Cheerios (eating them like they are going out of style - he has moved on to Laura's stash now that mine are gone - thanks Laura & Emma.
Being Held
Raspberries on his tummy
Kissing his ears
Swimming and baths
Eating anything and everything
Throwing things - including tantrums :)
His shoes - putting them on and off
Slamming drawers
Anime and Indy car racing - there isn't a lot on TV here

Jackson dislikes:
The highchair
The stroller
Being set down
Not getting what he wants immediately
Ketchup although he tries it every time we eat
Orajel - but it feels so good
Bumping his head - which he does about 10 times a day
Shopping - hates it with a passion
Running out of snacks

So that's a little bit about this silly, little man. He is very cute, very smart and quite a handful. Only two more days until we are home - wohoo!!
Chillin' at the WS Pool

Waterfall at the pool

Waterfall inside the hotel

WS Playroom - diggin' the piano

Playing at the park - Shaiman Island

Ups and Downs

2008-08-31T23:13:00.000-07:00

Another day of ups and downs. Today has been a tough day so far. 8:30 am medical appointment with a child that is extremely weary of doctors, with good reason. We also had a photo at the visa photo place and a 2 hour paperwork session. Let the fun begin people!!

As you could imagine the meltdown and constant holding/pushing away started at the doctors and continued until he could yell no more - he finally feel asleep and is napping. This trip is no life for a toddler let me tell you - it's hard. He was tired and hungry and I had a gazillion forms, plus a few more to fill out. Thankfully we appear to have everything we need in order to get a visa for Mr. Xi Tao Chuan, AKA Action Jackson, Chuan Chuan, Squirming Worm, and baby Jackyl and Hyde. Thankfully I did not have to list all his new nicknames on the visa request form.

I really hope that some of this rage goes away - it is really hard to cope with by myself. I have only the people that I am traveling with to occasionally hold him, but it has been so, so difficult. I cannot wait to get home to a familiar place, to my family that I miss like crazy and to provide some consistency for this little guy.

Here are some pictures:

With my buddy, #2 Kern

Red Couch Chaos

I like the madness!

Mom - did you plan for me to match?

Group Photo: Homeland & Hand in Hand Families

Me & Mom

Just waking up

Trying to mingle with the ladies

The bib says it all

Adoption Medical Exam

Hello from Guangzhou!!

2008-08-31T00:29:00.000-07:00

Why is it that everything seems better in Guangzhou - it is like the Disney World of Adoption if that makes sense. Maybe because we are that much closer to home! We are at the White Swan - definitely in need of renovations, nothing has changed since 2006, we'll probably since 1980. Anyway, they are all about service here. The scooped us up from the airport, we were all tired and hot and whisked us to the hotel. During the whisking Jackson blessed us all with a very nasty diaper that was changed via a team effort on the white slip covered seats of the bus. Thanks for everyones' assistance - hope your eyes are not still burning - whew.

He traveled like a champ - it wasn't easy - lots of redirection and diversion but we made it. I had a knot in my stomach the whole time just waiting for him to pitch a fit - it was exhausting. He promptly passed out it the stroller as we walked along the Pearl River. Ahhh-the stroller, don't jump on me I know I should be carrying him, but he has been glued to me for the last week and I think for my sanity and preparation for home life a little stroller time is a good thing. I do have to bribe him with treats and I can't stop moving at all or he needs to be either up or out. Addie was this way at 20 months too.

So after sleeping in the stroller we went to Lucy's for dinner - and I decided that he should wake up and eat a little since lunch consisted of snacks at the Nanjing airport - bad move - he was MAD!!! He cried for the better part of an hour and then went to sleep for the night 7pm-7am. He was wiped. This schedule is so hard on the children and the heat makes it even worse. Only a few more days until we are home.

I did some shopping today and got most of the "must haves" on my list at my favorite store next door then I will shop around for a few extras. We spent some time in the playroom at the WS - he loved it and there were a lot of kids there. We also had lunch with Laura G. and Emma at the deli - we had some ice cream. Jackson was not a fan, he will come around.

Here is a few photos to tide you over - it has been hard to take pictures, but maybe now that he is in a stroller it will be easier. We have red couch photos today at 5pm.

Chillin' at the Nanjing Airport

Hangin' with Mom at the White Swan

Our Pal Emma G.

A Brighter Day!

2008-08-28T23:34:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for your comments and emails of support it really has helped to lift my spirits. I will not lie, it has not been an easy road. So different compared to Addison's adoption trip. Jackson is very sweet, but he also has a nasty temper and is very confused at times to what is happening. Especially after seeing the orphanage staff three days in a row - agh! What must have been going through his little mind. Each day I see more love and less rage and anxiety. He is definitely feeling more secure and feeling better physically. The white oozing has stopped and the stitches are looking better and better.

First a little back story, so of you may know as I emailed you. In his belongings on gotcha day was a note from and young American woman, a teacher that fostered him on and off since the fall of last year. We were able to catch up with her during our visit to Wuxi. Her organization works with several orphanages throughout China visiting, playing with and fostering children. They even raise money for surgeries. So glad I was able to meet this important person in Jackson's life.

The orphanage visit was difficult because Jackson has just finished screaming for the better part of an hour when we pulled in so I was out of sorts. We had lunch, toured, saw some older children, toddlers, and babies (sorry no photos allowed), and met with various officials. I tried so eel at lunch, pretty tasty, also bitter melon, the "famous" Wuxi ribs, and prawns. It was a difficult day, Jackson looked around when we got there and nestled in and wouldn't let me go. I did manage to get a quick shot with him and his nannies.

I stayed on in Wuxi and the group headed back - had dinner at TGIFridays (some good ole' American fare) and the his foster mom and her friend helped me take the bullet train back to Nanjing - so much faster than the 3 hour van ride. At this point though Jackson was melting down every hour or so - totally miserable, but I knew the train would be better than the bus.

Thursday - we stayed in and Dr. Gong prescribed some medicine for Jackson's mouth and helped me iron out a diet that would be better on his stomach. So hard when you're living at a hotel. Last night we ordered Pizza Hut and all hung out in the Stephen's suite - a very nice night in. Jackson loved watching the Kern kids play soccer and even got a few kicks in himself.

Today- Far fewer meltdowns, although he didn't sleep to great. I think we had a major break through this morning. He will just pitch a fit wherever, hit, scratching, kicking, squirming, through himself on the floor (even backwards). I put a blanket on the floor and let him get angry, I kept offering myself to him over and over and finally he came to me on his own terms. Things have been better since then. I think he was a favorite and the orphanage and of course with his foster mom because he really know how to work it to get what he wants. I am head to toe bruises as proof. I don't blame him one bit, given what he has been through in the last 19 months. He had to do something to get attention and this worked for him. Another sweet little girl in our group is a hitter/biter all coping mechanisms of orphanage life - in time these will get better.

For lunch we ate at a fabulous German restaurant, I know German food in China. It was so good. Perhaps we are all homesick for something other than Chinese food, which is actually pretty varied. I had meatloaf with mushroom sauce, roasted potatoes, a caffe latte, and Jackson and I split a chocolate sundae - MMMM! For you XingFu families coming to the Nanjing Grand you MUST eat at the German place across the street.

OK, must pack. We leave for Guangzhou in the morning. Kimberly P. have an awesome trip picking up Tian Li. Addie and Daddy have a safe trip up north. I miss you all and will be home in 6 Days!!!!

Here are some pictures:

Entrance hall of Wuxi SWI

Foster Mom

All of us together!

One of Jackson's nannies

Lunch

Visiting my foster Mom's classroom

Lounging around

Being silly

More silliness

Self portrait

The Longest Day Ever!

2008-08-28T00:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to visit Jackson's orphanage in Wuxi. The best development was that I was able to connect with a young woman who has fostered Jackson since last fall. She would play with him on Saturdays at the orphanage and occasionally take him home on the weekends. She was also there with him during his palate repair which is comforting for me to know.

The bad news is that on the three hour ride out to Wuxi Jackson's starting acting sick and writhing in pain, pulling at his mouth etc. This was the first time he has really cried and looking into his little mouth was awful - it looked terrible with white sores along the top of his palate. He is only 4 weeks post op and in the states would still be on a limited diet and wearing arm restraints so he couldn't put anything in his mouth. But I digress. I am pretty sure the repair didn't work b/c when he eats food still comes out his nose.

So I have been couped up at the hotel with a sick, cranky baby that I want to feel better soon. He is just miserable. Hopefully the antibiotics that I received this morning will do the trick. So keep us in your thoughts and prayers that we are feeling good and strong to travel to Guangzhou on Saturday because I would really, really not like to repeat yesterday.

I will post some pictures when we perk up a bit, just wanted to let you all know we are OK and counting down the days to diet coke with ice and our pediatrician at home.

Love,

Tracy & Jackson

It's official in Jiangsu Province

2008-08-25T23:50:00.000-07:00

We registered the adoption today at the provincial level. Very official, yet the proceedings were really smooth. Only about 10 families there total. Lots of boys, I think all the groups were special needs. My friend Laura on the trip is not feeling well, so if you could say a prayer for her and her sweet daughter Emma I know they would appreciate it. She has a nasty stomach bug and cough that I hope not to catch. I have been loading in the vitamin C and trying to rest as much as possible. It is very humid here so every trip outside is very hot and sweaty.

Today went alright, we are getting to know each other better. He is very busy, quick to smile, and likes to joke. On the other hand like any 20 month old, he is testing boundaries at ever chance which is tough when you are confined to a small hotel room. I am definitely looking forward to Guangzhou and the playroom at the White Swan. I think he will love it.

He reminds me of Addie, he is a go baby. Almost to the point of restlessness. Some of that is likely the transition. We are trying to settle into a routine, but it is tough here because everyday brings with it a different schedule. We are laying low in the room this afternoon. He napping and I'm catching up with people. We hope to venture out tonight and explore some of the shops around the hotel and get some air.

Keep us in your thoughts, and feel free to comment as I enjoy reading them while I am here by myself.

Brody- I miss you and I miss our teamwork. This is a hard trip without you. Love you!

Addie - I miss your smile, sweet pea - I will see you tomorrow AM on Skype!! Huggies and Kisses.

Pictures from today:

He's a great sleeper, this looks so comfy

At the Adoption Appointment

The Registration Office

Stamping the paperwork with his thumb print

A celebratory drink!

What a morning, time for a snack

He's Here!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-08-24T23:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, this was an amazing moment. God must have known that I was nervous traveling by myself and about how Jackson would transition from his caregivers to me. It went very smooth, I am still waiting for the meltdown. Maybe when he wakes from his nap and realizes I'm still here??

He was feeding me cheerios, laughing, play peek-a-boo. He is a funny little guy. Into everything, I had to quickly baby proof my small hotel room. He is walking like a champ, he can even negotiate little bumps and transitions from tile to carpet.

He loves to hug and be hugged.

His palate is repaired. The director told me he had his surgery a month ago. So sad we were not there to help him through.

So onto what everyone wants to see - the pictures. So without further ado, let me introduce you to our very handsome prince, Mr. Jackson Reece Tao Chuan Peed

What goes together like peanut butter and jelly?

2008-08-24T05:04:00.000-07:00

Well in China the answer is foot massages and duck tongues. Oh wait, that was just our adventurous afternoon. A few of the ladies from our group went around the corner and had the best foot massage ever. Foot massage in China means your back, neck, and entire leg massage. Forty-five minutes for 58 yuan about $10. Bliss.

We decided to splurge for dinner since it was our last night without kiddos so we went to a very fancy restaurant on the top floor of our hotel. We had our own private dining room - very classy. The only catch was no one spoke any English. We decided to give it a go anyway - we told them we liked chicken and beef, which I think were part of the 20 or so dishes they brought us. The meal was truly spectacular.

There were a few items not found on our menu back home including duck tongue, jelly fish, and either squid or octopus, I wasn't sure. I tried everything but the jelly fish - which I hear was crunchy and quite salty. We had three soup courses, and two dessert courses if that clues you into this meal - AMAZING! All for around $30/ person - you can't get that at Applebees. I will leave you with some photos of our fun and feasting.

Stay tunes - we get the children in the morning - wohoo!

[Relaxing: Laura, Teri & I]

[Foot Heaven]

[Some sort of poultry - very delicious]

[Do you think they give everyone gloves, or just us?]

[Mmmm, duck tongue]

[Jellyfish]

[More Duck]

[Don't forget the squid]

What an unbelievable meal :)

Some Pictures from My Day in Nanjing

2008-08-23T21:20:00.001-07:00

{Flat Tyler and Mom Laura at the Shanghai Airport}

{Me at a Garden by Our Hotel}

{A Pagoda in the Rooftop Garden at the Hotel}

{A Sport Stadium Across from the Hotel}

Addie, If you are reading this with Grandma, which I bet you are I am missing you like crazy, baby. Oh wait, you're a big girl I know :) Hugs and kisses my sweet pea, Mama will be home soon. Have a great time with Daddy, Grandma, Grandpa, Jill, Nana, Poppa, Auntie Lee, and your cousins while I'm away. I will call you on the "TV" (skype) when you get back home with Daddy.

Big hugs and kisses, OK?? OK.

Love you,

Mommy

In China

2008-08-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

Well, about 27 hours later. I'm here. Two plane flights, and a 5 hour bus ride through some really crazy traffic and we made it. We drove through Wuxi and Changzhou - really hard not to swing through and pick up our kiddos. Monday morning will be here soon enough since it is Saturday night already.

Nanjing is gorgeous and huge - 10 million people. Our guide, Grace is super sweet and professional. I can't believe she is only 15!! Our other guide Anna arrives tomorrow. Seriously, wonderful people!

I need to eat, shower, and sleep so off I go. We have a free day tomorrow and we hope to head to Walmart for baby supplies. There is a empty crib in my hotel room just waiting for Jackson. It's feels really, really real!

Tracy

Songs for My Brother

2008-08-19T21:37:00.000-07:00

Addie and I had some fun the other night taping some of her favorites for her brother. Warning - turn your volume down, and enjoy the cuteness.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

5 Days!

2008-08-17T19:18:00.000-07:00

Or rather less than five days and I will be in the air flying to China. About one week from tonight I will be holding our son in my arms. Gotcha day is Monday morning, August 25th, but remember that is Sunday night at about 9 or 10pm for you all. Hopefully I will be able to get a post up for everyone by Monday morning. Those first 24 hours can be rather precarious. Full of transitions, tears, and paperwork so bear with me and pray for a smooth transition for both of us.

I received some updated information on Jackson:
He weighs about 19 pounds, and is 28 inches. He has 11 teeth and is walking.

I can't wait to meet him and see all those teeth. As many of you might remember Addie only had 6 teeth at her 2nd Birthday - very, very late teether.

Well, I have a busy week planned with packing, cleaning and hugging my family before I leave bright and early on Friday morning.

~Tracy

Test

2008-08-13T21:33:00.001-07:00

Testing my ability to post from my email account if needed. Nine Days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

~Tracy

Consulate Appointment

2008-08-06T05:43:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally have an appointment , after 5 nerve wracking days. September 2nd. Yes, a week later than we had initially thought but to be honest it is just fine b/c we were so under the gun to book travel to leave at the end of next week that prices were sky high - almost $2500/ ticket. This way we have an extra week to get things booked and some of the post-Olympic/ students heading back for college traffic should be gone by the time we are on our way home.
Currently our schedule looks like this:
August 22 - Leave for China
August 25 - Gotcha Day (Nanjing)
August 30 (Guangzhou)
September 2 - Consulate Appointment
September 4 - Head HOME (Also, my ninth wedding anniversary)

Because you repeat a day traveling home from China I will actually arrive back in Chicago on the 4th too!!

T-minus 16 days and counting until I leave :)

TA!!!!!!!

2008-08-01T18:45:00.000-07:00

I never thought two little letters could make my day. Well they did. We have travel approval people!!! What does this mean? That in about two weeks I will be in China waiting for our son.
Our agency is hoping that we will get the children on August 18th - with travel and turn around time I will likely leave on the 14th or 15th. I am amazed - I had pretty much scratched August travel from my mind because of the Olympics, guess not. I will keep everyone posted as we might not have firm dates until as late as next Friday - the 8th and I could potentially leave the next week. Crazy thought, I had better get packing.

Jackson here I come. We can't wait to get you home little guy!

Belated July 4th Pictures

2008-07-16T13:46:00.000-07:00

I have been busy play with Addie and getting our home ready for Jackson's arrival - lots of last minute paperwork too!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

LOA Finally!

2008-07-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

In Laura G's words, China has spoken. Our Letter of Acceptance is in New York and on it's way here. The LOA is mostly a formality, it is just like a referral even though we know who Jackson is already. Next step travel arrangements. Probably not until after the Olympics, but we'll see stranger things have happened.

Travel will be with 3 other families, one of which we know very well as we travel together to adopt our daughters in 2006. Talk about a red thread between each other and China. Now they will be bringing home their beautiful daughter Emma, and us our handsome son Jackson. We have also been messaging back and forth with the other two families for quite some time. Our little Seadog Group (We have a pirate theme for our travel group names, buccaneers, swashbucklers etc..

Cool Seadog 2008 Facts
We have all adopted from China before
We all have girls from China
If I'm not mistaken they are all pretty close in age too!
This trip the kids are split between 2 orphanges, two and two
Chloe & Jackson in Wuxi, and Emma and Eli in Changzhou
Two boys and two girls - how cute.
Chloe, Jackson, and Eli were all born within two weeks of each other 12/19/06-1/3/07
We're going to be super busy with four toddlers :)
I can't wait!!!

Pray for fast turn around of our Letter's of Acceptance and quick Travel Approval and Consulate Appointments for our Seadog group!

A Little Advocacy for Today

2008-07-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Operation Smile: Help Children Around the World Through a Simple Click - From Bethany:

Oral-B will donate one foot of dental floss to Operation Smile for every visitor that clicks through this link on their web site. No strings attached, no personal information required. It takes less than 5 seconds. Operation Smile is an organization that helps repair facial deformities in children throughout the world.
I would like to think that someone took the time to do this for our son Jackson, his lip was beautifully repaired in China (he now has 8 beautiful teeth that I can't wait to take care of!).
Much Love,
T.

Happy Fourth of July

2008-07-06T20:59:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome time with friends and family this weekend!

Here's a few pictures - I hope to do a smilebox later.

(click image to enlarge)

Cool New Site

2008-07-04T21:29:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this awesome site that raffles off the most adoreable little girls dresses. I love the dress that is up for grabs this week called Ice Cream Social, it's well - delicious. I could so see Addie wearing this dress. Check out her stuff it's gorgeous. I love to support crafty mommies doing cool things.

Ice Cream Social Frock Giveaway!!!!

I've Been Tagged - Thanks Larua L.

2008-07-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

The six word memoir. My lovely travel friend from China Laura L. tagged me and asked me to capture my life right now in six words.

So here it is: WAITING, WAITING, when will it end!

I feel so blessed with my life, our life. Yet, our hearts are split between here and China. We just want to get our little guy home. Hopefully in a few months my six words will be.

Busy, busy with two little ones.

Thanks Laura, hugs to you for keeping me busy!

T.

So Close

2008-06-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

We are so close to our goal and so close to our son. First and foremost - look at that total on the right! We have been working so hard to bring Jackson home. We want to thank all of our amazing friends and family for helping us with donations of goods to sell, time, money, support, and morale. We could not have come this far without you. We love you all and are so blessed to have you in our lives.

Today we had dinner at our favorite Chinese restaurant and while eating we saw an enormous full-sky rainbow. I don't think I have ever seen a rainbow that big before - it was breathtaking. Hopefully this is a sign from above that we will hear some news soon. My fortune cookie said that I would hear a cheerful message soon. Sounds good to me!

Keep us in your thoughts and hope that we hear good news from China soon!

Love & Hugs!

T.

Going Crazy

2008-06-06T20:35:00.000-07:00

No news from China - believe me I will shout it from the rooftop when we finally hear something. It has to be soon. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers that we will hear good news.

As you can see from the side bar our fund raising efforts are going well. We have a ways to go, but we are getting there. A HUGE thank you to everyone that donated items, time and money to our effort to get this precious little guy home. You know we will share him with you all once he is home. Just as we know what a miracle and blessing Addison is we know Jackson will be too.

Just thought I ought to post something new so you don't get bored.

T.

Help Us Bring Jackson Home

2008-05-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

We anticipate that we will hear very soon about travel to China. A group that just got their Letters of Seeking Confirmation last week will be leaving mid-June so we are next!

My hope is that we are in China by July. With that said, travel right now is beyond expensive, high gas prices, summer, and the Olympics have almost doubled prices from the last time we went.

To raise money we are having two garage sales:

This weekend May 30^th & 31^st(Friday 8-4 and Saturday 8-5)
The next sale will be June 20^th & 21^st (8-5 both days)

If you would like to help us with our fundraising efforts please consider either shopping at our sale or donating items* for us to sell. Between the two sales we hope to raise at least $3000 over the next 5-6 weeks.

Additionally, we would like to donate at least 10% of what we raise to Half the Sky, an organization in China that provides services directly to the orphanages. They are currently focusing their efforts on Chengdu and the surrounding provinces that were effected as a result of the earthquake.

You may also make a monetary donation, if you wish to help that way. We have included a secure link to Pay Pal on the right. We feel so blessed to have such wonderful friends and family to share our lives and happiness.

Thank you in advance for your kindness.

*You can drop items off, just give me a call and I will be home, or we will come pick up your items. The only thing we won’t do is clean out your closets J

Earthquake in China

2008-05-18T17:56:00.000-07:00

Thank you everyone for your calls, emails, and questions about Jackson. Thankfully, the area where he is from was not effected by the quake. Our agency reported that "we spoke with both Lu and Tong this morning. Buildings in Nanjing were shaking, but there has been no damage or loss of life in Jiangsu Province.

We are so thankful that his has not effected our little one directly, but his has impacted the lives of thousands throughout China. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. The news reports have been so grim as many parents have lost their only child as a result of the quake and buildings collapsing.

If you would like more information about the earth quake, or if you would like to donate to the relief efforts there are several reputable organizations that work directly with the orphanages throughout China and in the effected regions.

Please keep China in your prayers. Thanks!

Half the Sky
http://www.halfthesky.org/

The Amity Foundation
http://www.amityfoundation.org/

Love Without Boundaries
http://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/

General Relief - American Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org/

Two Months

2008-05-15T06:14:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that our Dossier has been in China two months already. Where has the time gone. We are waiting on pins and needles, hoping to recieve our Letter of Acceptance (LOA) any day now. This precedes our Travel Approval (TA) which is our formal invitation from China to travel to Nanjing to pick up Jackson. I really feel in my heart that we will have him in our arms by the Fourth of July.

I had a dream about this - as silly as that is. Also I would love to be in Nanjing, because the Olympic torch is scheduled to go through July 6th. When I saw the torch schedule I thought, how cool would it be if we are there to see that.

On a more reality based note, if we do not get travel documents soon it could mean that we will have to wait until after the Olympics to travel. I would be sad, but alas it is not in our hands.

We do have a nice little travel group forming through the XingFu program - at least 5 families now so that will be fun.

I must put in a plug for this program they are amazing - Homeland Adoption Services - XingFu Program. It is direct placement special needs program with little or no wait for a referral. Last I heard they had several little boys and toddlers needing placements. So if you have it in your heart to adopt from China - give Pam or Nancy a call. The link for Homeland is on my sidebar.

That's it for now. Graduation ceremony and Masters hooding are this weekend - wohoo me! I am quite excited to be finished with this chapter of my life, a little sad though because I have loved my program, the students in it, and the faculty.

Have a wonderful weekend!

T.

Crazy Days!

2008-05-04T17:56:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been super swamped winding up my Masters - I am finally in the home stretch and I am so busy. Just finished a huge paper today. I have a final exam, some client tapes, and some class meetings and I am finished!!!

It has been a long road that started in 2002 - it's only six years, and one and one half adoptions later. My job search is on hold until we know when we will get Jackson home and the full speed ahead to China, then home for a bit, and then work, work, work :)

Here are some Addie pictures to tide you over until we know more about Jax. We think our LID is April 10th - we got a letter that said it was March 10th, but we submitted it to China on the 14th. So my best guess at this point is April 10th.

I hope they can get us to China and back before the Olympics. We're going to have a busy summer either way.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

My Baby is Three Today!

2008-04-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome weekend celebrating Addie's Third Birthday with a Fairytale party. I am going to use my new favorite Smilebox - to show you a scrapbook of the highlights. She is still talking about her family and friends coming to her house to celebrate. Thank you everyone, you made her Birthday so special and memorable. On a side note - I baked a cake - a very cool castle cake with the help of Mary, Luke, and Lisa - you guys ROCK!!

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

Addie Dancing

2008-03-30T22:54:00.000-07:00

Addison has been taking dance classes since the start of the year. She really likes the dances they learn, and the little songs they sing. She is taking tap and ballet. She will have her first recital in June - so cute. They will be doing a ballet number to "When you Wish Upon a Star" - it is adorable. Here is a little collage of her dancing with some video clips - enjoy.

Make a slideshow - it's easy!

Happy Easter!!

2008-03-23T19:19:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a wonderful Easter celebration - we did! Here's a photo of us decorating the house.

{Click for Larger Image}

Beware Cuteness Below :: Jackson Update

2008-03-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some updated stats and photos of our little man. He is looking so strong and healthy! We're coming buddy - as fast as they'll let us get there we'll be there.

It is hard to explain missing someone you've never met so I'll stop here and let you soak in his handsomeness.

28"
18.5 lbs.
6 teeth
14.5 months today!

We're DTC!!

2008-03-14T18:03:00.000-07:00

Finally - our dossier (official packet of documents for adoption) left NY for China this afternoon. We are still optimistic that we will travel to China sometime this summer, hopefully before the Olympics, to bring Jackson home.

So I won a blog make over by a lovely adoptive mother at a site I frequent. She did an awesome job don't you think? We needed a fresh look around here. It is funny seeing my two kiddos side-by-side on the top. The have the same cute, and curious look.

Hopefully we will have an update from China on Jackson within the next couple of weeks - maybe even with pictures. He is now 14 months old - we wonder everyday if he is walking, babbling, feeding himself, does he have teeth, if he does, how many?

Ah the waiting ....

Off to put the munchkin to bed - can't believe she'll be three next month!

Happy New Year!

2008-02-06T19:02:00.000-08:00

Welcome the Year of the Rat (or Mouse as we call it at our house)!

[Click for Larger Image]

2007 Year In Review

2008-01-16T07:02:00.000-08:00

Ok - I realize I am a little late in getting this up, but life is keeping us pretty busy these days. Check out what Addie has been up to this year (and us too)- she has changed so much in the past 12 months. In a month we will be celebrating TWO YEARS as a family- where has the time gone, seriously?

I am busy interning, going to class and working part-time at the College, Brody is very busy with several large projects at his job, and Addie is busy being a wild and crazy 2 1/2 year old.
We enjoy every precious minute that we can spend together. Since we thought we didn't have enough going on - he he! We have decided to adopt again :)

Isn't it amazing how your love multiples as you add children, not divides. We love being parents and can't wait to add this little one to our family.

Watch this video and find out more - there is a little blurb at the end and some pictures. We hope to have updated information that we will post soon! So grab your popcorn, oh wait you're at work, and sit back for this 10 minute review of our year.

Chances are if you are reading this you are a friend or family member - we love you all and thank you for being part of our lives. Have a happy and blessed 2008!

Two Posts in One Day!!!

2007-11-04T18:54:00.000-08:00

Some fun fall video clips from this weekend:

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Share Photos - Free Video Hosting

Happy Fall

2007-11-04T18:32:00.000-08:00

Sorry we have been so bad about posting - even sending photos. Life keeps us moving at a pretty hectic pace these days. Addison is officially 2 1/2 at she is as busy and funny as ever. Man that girl makes us laugh - her facial expressions and timing are hilarious. I am interning and working and Brody has been super busy with several large projects including a new Science Center at the college where I work. Sadly - I'm not there when he is there. This fall I have been cyber commuting and working mostly nights and weekends so I am free to intern during the day.
Finally, we have some exciting news brewing so well keep you posted when we know more - hmm.

Here are some fall scrapbook layouts of our life:

Weeds & Wildflowers Challenge

2007-10-09T07:33:00.001-07:00

Posting this out here for a digiscrapping challenge. Thought you all might enjoy revisiting our first family photo.
I used WW Spring Freebie, WW Super Stars & WW Wire Words Freebie. Thanks for looking!

WHOA-You blink and summer is over :(

2007-09-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of post, but we have just been enjoying summer so much that we haven't had a lot of free time. I have been working part-time since July 1 - in preparation for my internship this year to complete me Masters degree so Addie and I had a lot of play time. It was great to be home with her - she has such a great sense of humor. Lots or laughter - only and few tears and tantrums. She is 2 after all!

We squeezed in a week up North, sadly without Daddy. He started a new with a new company in February and they have been too busy to take time off. We are going to have a long family weekend at the end of the month for my sisters wedding.

Here are some pictures from Summer '07.

With Momma - Up North

More Up North

At the Zoo

I Eat the Cone First!

McDonald's Playland - Rainy Day Fun!

Am I Trying too Hard to Smile??

Silly Faces

Wake Up Sleepy Head

Stylin' Shades

Auntie Lee, Nana, & Addie

Happy June!

2007-06-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that June is here already. It's Dairy Month in the Dairy State and School's Out for Summer! Yeah!

OK, cute story of the day - I go to get Addie out of her crib this morning and she says to me "you rock, mama". How sweet is that - she is so funny and the timing of her humor is amazing for a two year old. She is also so sweet and kind. I love this little girl so much!

May Update

2007-05-23T12:38:00.000-07:00

Hi all!
We're doing great - can't believe that May is almost over. There is quite a bit happening in our lives. I have an exciting opportunity to work part-time in anticipation of my Masters Degree internship this fall. I am looking forward to spending more time with Addie this summer - starting July 1. Also, I just started selling Mary Kay and I am lovin' it and the flexibility it gives me to earn extra income - it is such an amazing company - thanks cousin Eileen!

I had a fantastic Mother's Day and we manage to fit in Brody's Mom, Brody's Sister, my Mom's whole family and Beloit College graduation. It was a busy day! Brody and Addie got me a wonderful living gift - a maple tree and two gorgeous lilac bushes. Summer has sure started in the Midwest with several days in the 80's and 90's already. We have been spending a lot of time outside. I will leave you all with a few recent scrapbook LOs of our fun!

Wow - How Time Flies!

2007-04-18T12:43:00.000-07:00

We are continually have fun with Ms. Addie everyday. Her personality and vocabulary grow constantly - she says everything, especially names. She is a dynamo! Most nights Brody and I fall asleep at 8:15pm - she goes to be at 8pm!! Since I last left you we have clebrated Easter and Addie's second birthday. It was all the same weekend - we had two parties for our two year old and we had lots of fun!

Ah, the terrible twos. I think they have started a bit - we are certainly hearing NO a lot and there have been a few tantrums. Nothing we can't handle - she is still 98% sunshine. We are trying to enjoy Spring in WI, but it is tough when it oscalates between 75 degrees and snowing.

Happy Spring!

Thanks to Everyone!

2007-02-20T14:35:00.000-08:00

Addie had a wonderful GOTCHA Day. Below are a few recent scrapbook layouts for you to enjoy. Have a great week - we are keeping as busy as ever!

One year ago today...

2007-02-19T14:42:00.000-08:00

We met you!

Happy Valentines Day!

2007-02-13T14:26:00.000-08:00

Last year we left for China on Valentines Day - this year we get to share Valentines Day with our little sweetie. Love & Hugs! Tracy, Brody & Addison

Almost 1 Year

2007-02-05T13:08:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that last year at this time we were not yet a family. In spirit yes, she was ours from the moment we laid eyes on her precious picture. But physically not a family yet, that could touch and hug and kiss!!

I am very nostalgic these days thinking back to what I was doing last year at this time - frantically packing and preparing for the journey of a lifetime. Wondering and wishing - what would this little girl be like??

Now that we know her, our Addison, we know that she is full of life, spirited, independent, loving, vivacious and the apple of our eye. She is just too sweet for words and we are so blessed to have her in our life.

I look forward to sharing more on or around our "Family Day" - February 19th - as we celebrate one year of togetherness and memories.

Holiday Pictures

2006-12-20T10:37:00.000-08:00

A few holiday photos too!

{Addie looking at the Snowman}

{One of Our Holiday Cards}

{Christmas photo shoot }

{more from the photo shoot}

{Addie & the tree}

Happy Holidays

2006-12-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

Holiday greetings from our family to you! This will be a wonderful holiday as Miss Addie brings so much joy to our lives everyday. She is having a lot of fun and enjoying the festivity of the season - parties, music, worship, and of course COOKIES. I have included a video clip of her dancing - super cute if you can get over Brody's (LOUD) voice in the background (perhaps next time he will do less coaching - although I doubt it :)). Have a great holiday and a healthy & happy 2007!

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Can you believe it is almost Thanksgiving??

2006-11-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

Wow - time is just flying - Addie turn 19 months on th 7th.

She is talking, giggling, singing, and dancing up a storm.

We had a great Halloween - we went to a program at her daycare, to the downtown parade, and to a Halloween party at our cousin's house. She had two costumes - ladybug & fairy princess. Both were a lot of fun. She also did her first door to door trick-or-treat. Plus, we had 313 kids stop at the house for Halloween - it was a crazy candy fest :)

We are hosting Thanksgiving for the family next week - my first big turkey - ugh! I am nervous.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

I will leave you with some recent pictures.

{halloween party}

{halloween parade}

{trick-or-treat}

{playing on campus}

{addie for senate?}

Happy Fall!!!

2006-10-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

Wow, Addie is 18 months old [as of October 7th]. Where has the time went?? We are loving every minute of parenthood - and Addison, well she amazes us every single moment.

She is now running, developing a sense of humor, tickling people and the dog, playing with friends [Nathan, Harper and the kids at daycare], and she is talking - a lot :) She has an eclectic vocabulary from the standards - Mama & Dada to the more exotic like, crocodile [taught to her by our very sweet neighbor and friend Mary].

She is enjoying fall - playing outside, swinging on her swingset, playing in the leaves, and seeing pumpkins, big and small.

Addie is getting geared up for Halloween - we have a few kid parties to attend and our neighborhood goes crazy for trick-or-treat, so she will pass out candy at home.

I will leave you with a few photos, and I promise to try to post again before 6 weeks roll by.

{Addie Bug}

{Go Higher Dada}

{Just Too Cute}

{School Pride}

{Pumpkin Princess}

Did you miss us?

2006-08-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

Haven't posted in awhile, but I know several people still check out our site and the blog.

July was a very busy month - we took two trips to Nana & Papa's cabin up north and had a wonderful time. Addie is talking up a storm and consistently uses, Mama, Dada, Duck, Hi, & Up. She is also signing like crazy - they teach all kids a few ASL signs at daycare. She signs for more, all done, please, thank-you, milk, and juice. She is too cute, and this has helped with some of the usual toddler communication issues. I know she understand far more than she can communicate which often times leads to frustration, she is really bright and so curious about everything.

August has kept us very busy too. Work is starting to pick up for me and I will be traveling a fair bit in the next few months. Brody will get to be Mr. Mom every once in awhile - he loves it and does such an awesome job! We also traveled to Iowa and Addie got to meet all of Brody's family - it was so much fun. Addie gave everyone "high-fives" until her little arm just about feel off. She also learned how to give knucklebusters from her cousins Rhyan & Rachel.

Addie also got an outdoor playset from Granny P and Uncle Russie. It is huge - two slides, a playhouse, and three swings. Her Little Tikes set fits underneath this monster. She will have many, many years of fun and memories on this neat playset. Plus it dwarfs everything in our backyard - hehe. We joke that the neighbor kids fall off their bikes in wonderment as they ride by on the bike path. A few have even knocked on the door asking for "our kids" to come out and play. I politely say we only have one, she is 16 months old, and can't play outside without us yet. Too cute!

I will leave you all with a few pictures of Addison - enjoy!

June Update

2006-06-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in awhile. We are all doing well and Miss Addie is keeping us very busy. I went back to work on May 15th. While it was a hard thing to do Addison loves her daycare group and teachers - they all find her very sweet and entertaining. Even the preschoolers know Addie :)

She is now walking all the time - practically running. Her favorite place to be is outside. She plays in her wading pool, eats popsicles, and helps us plant flowers. She still loves her doggies Harley and Stella and they enjoy chasing each other now that she is more mobile.

Addison loves music and dancing - this kid has got rhythm. I put in a little video clip of her rocking out.

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Later this month Addie will have her first vacation as we venture to the Northwoods to help Nana and Papa move into their summer place.

Happy Easter and First Steps

2006-04-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

We want to wish everyone a joyous and blessed Easter!!

We took some bunny pictures on Addie and wanted to share, so here they are~

Also, big news - Addie took her first steps tonight. At this pace she'll be running by next week!! She is so determined - it's amazing to watch her.

First Birthday

2006-04-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

Addie turned one on Friday, I can't believe how fast she is growing. I know everyone always says how fast kids grow, now that I have my own little one I finally see want they mean. She had a pretty quiet day on Friday her actual Birthday, her Auntie stopped over to play and so did a few friends. She had a big party on Saturday with lots of family and friends. Our little playroom in the basement was filled to capacity. It was so fun. Addie also had her first taste of cake - she wasn't quite sure what to do with it, but she got the hang of it. Please leave a comment if you want to send a Birthday message to Addison. We will save them for her. Have a great week and enjoy a few photos from her party.

Bliss

2006-03-17T12:30:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share a little fun from this week. Addison is really blossoming and her larger than life personality comes out a little bit more each day. She is such a fun loving little girl. She has made so many advances this week. She learned to go from laying down to sitting by herself and she now scoots aroung the room half sitting half crawling. She has even started to try to pull up on the furniture to stand! She is also cutting two, maybe three teeth, this is not so fun for Addie or Ma Ma and Da Da. But, considering she has no teeth right now it was bound to happen soon.

Her two new friends are Harley and Stella our Airedale Terriers. They just adore her, even when she grabs their ears or pokes them in the eye. Stella can't wait for her to get up every morning and she is the first one to her door each morning.

We started swim classes at the YMCA this week, she is in the Shrimp class with 4 other little ones - everyone is under 14 months and it is so fun. She just loves the water and kicks ger little legs like crazy. There is even another little "Addie" in her class and an Abby - that poor instructor trying to keep the names straight.

Today we meet Nana for lunch and shopping - Addie loves to shop just like her Ma Ma and Nana. Big sale at Toys R Us just a heads up.

I will leave you with some pictures of our big girl
- Enjoy!!