The Ties That Bind

True Friends Strengthen and Help Each Other

2011-07-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

There are many obvious blessings that come with adoption. However, there are some that are unexpected. Since bringing Ella home I have made several wonderful friends - I've met other women who have also adopted. There are two friends that I love like sisters. I can't remember my life before having them on my side to lift me and make me smile.

Greta Jo (Cinderella and Carson's mama) is one. She and I met a few years ago through blogging. She flew to Kentucky to meet us. I remember seeing her, JK and Carson pull up to the house. They were all three dressed in plaid shorts. Me, Dave, Myles and Ella were all dressed in tye dye - but, fashion aside, our bond was immediate and strong. We planned to travel to Guatemala together. The trips we've shared have served to bring us closer. There are some things in life that we witness that break us, and we are never meant to heal from them. I can't wait to meet Greta Jo in Guatemala again. I am looking forward to that hug!

Sarah (Sophie's mom) is another close "sister" of mine. We are blessed to live less than an hour apart.

She is the kind of person who loves lifting others up. Sophie and Ella are very close, and will be throughout their lives. Being around Sarah makes me happy. She inspires me do silly things like this... Notice the wine bottle in the background.

Ella's birthday is in August. She'll be six - I can't believe it! Sarah decided that Ella needed a new bedroom. I can understand why...

We (she) planned a room proper for a princess. We worked our butts off. We're both on a tight budget, so we reused as many things as possible and shopped clearance items.

All weekend long we worked...and look how well our hard work paid off!

Ella LOVES here new room! And I LOVE Sarah. She is such a thoughtful and giving friend. She always makes the extra effort to send me a text, make a phone call (which I'm never awake late enough to receive) or send an email. I'm so thankful for ALL of the blessings that adoption brings!!

True Friends Strengthen and Help Each Other

Ecclesiastes 4:9–12
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

We Love Good Love

2011-06-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

My brother got married last Saturday. He married a fabulous, gorgeous woman who has two fabulous, gorgeous daughters. They stood in front of their family and friends and promised to stay together and support one another forever -and to respect one another as children of God. It was a beautiful ceremony and we had such a great time eating dinner together and celebrating afterward. We are blessed that two families have officially become one.

At the same time it turned my mind to the past. I am so disappointed (and hurt) that Ella's father did not want to do the work it takes to keep our family together. Don't get me wrong - I know that I am at fault, too...but in the end I wanted us to stay together and he did not. At times the feelings are overwhelming. I pray that we can still give Ella everything she deserves. Divorce sucks ass. I hate it.

On the other hand I do realize how blessed we still are. We still are a family filled with love and I have so much support from my family and friends. I don't know what I would do without them. This family is filled with good love! The kind that DOES last forever. The kind that never gives up and never goes away!

Here is a picture of me, my mother and my sister.

My sister and I are twins. Can you tell?

Til Death Do Us Part...

And of course me and Ella...together forever.

June 2011 - One Year Later

2011-06-10T07:12:00.000-07:00

Hey! I'm back. I haven't blogged in a year and I think I need to do something about that! Here is a quick update about what's been going on...

#1 Ella just graduated from Kindergarten!
#2 I'm traveling to Guatemala in August - I can't wait to go back. I haven't been since 2009.
#3 More to come... maybe some surprises
#4 My baby isn't a baby anymore -she's a beautiful big girl and the biggest blessing I have in my life.

June's Jumping Bean

2010-06-28T10:16:00.001-07:00

Ella and I are having a terrific summer. I am NOT a winter person. Some part of me dies inside during the winter - and I'm not being dramatic. I despise it. We have had so much fun this summer. Ella finished soccer and started tball. I don't see a future for her in this particular sport. She was the only one on the team that actually got tagged out. Thank goodness they don't really play by those rules. She was allowed to finish running the bases - not that she really wanted to. It was over 90 degrees that day. The warmer weather has sent us running for the pool. My dad, sister, brother, nieces and nephew have been around for some pool time. It has been so nice being with everyone. We've been going to the Downtown Summer Concert Series and hanging out with friends. I wish the entire year could be as nice as the past couple of months have been. Here are some recent pictures.

Happy Derby Weekend

2010-04-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

One Crazy Life!

2010-04-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

Our family and friends have had so many things happen lately. Some awesome, some bizarre -- these are two adjectives I think accurately describe us!

My brother, Danny, has met a fabulous woman. We met her for the first time last weekend and she is just weird and quirky enough to fit in perfectly with our family.

My niece, Hannah, was baptized last Sunday. Isn't she preciously innocent?

One of my friends finally received "the call" to travel to Korea and pick up her son. Shouting JOYOUSLY and with PRAISE!!!! Christine will be a fabulous mother - she is a beautiful person both inside and out. I would say her son is lucky, but we all know who the lucky ones are, don't we?

Ella had a terrible reaction to something. We don't know what exactly caused it, but I'm placing my money on pollen. Didn't she look awful? I raced her to the doctor and then raced her to the ER. Thank goodness she was fine. She was on steroids for a while - whew! They certainly changed her attitude. I'm still waiting for her attitude to adjust back...I'll just keep waiting...

This was her a few days later. All better and beautiful!!My sister, Angela and sister-by-choice, Amber are preparing to travel back to Guatemala. This is Angela's third time and Amber's first. I am very sorry that I won't be there to see Amber's face when she steps off the plane. I know she is in for a life-changing experience. She has wanted to go since I brought Ella home in 2006. I pray the Lord will use my family to be his hands...And His feet... Ella has a new obsession. She is wild about painting fingernails and toenails. Didn't she do a beautiful job?

When I was younger I played soccer. I was never any good, but I had fun. Ella has started playing soccer. A friend of mine from elementary school shared this picture with me. Me, Angela and Danny are all in it. I'll let you figure it out...

Ella and William - wearing the same colors as I did so many years ago!

We have had such a great time visiting with family lately. My dad is home from Florida and it has been so nice having everyone in at home at the same time!

I know you would love an update on our adoption. Currently we are on hold due to lack of funds. I am praying and keeping my heart and mind open to a different route that He might have in mind for us. Maybe fostering to adopt? Who knows?

WE are The TRUTH

2010-04-14T08:33:00.000-07:00

Adoption Update=Listening to Him

2010-03-23T07:27:00.001-07:00

I just read my last blog post and I realized how much has changed in my plans, in my heart, in my life, since I posted it. I thought I was very prepared for this adoption. I knew that things would be difficult, but since I have already experienced adoption (even a failed one) I thought that nothing would get to me. Boy, was I wrong. Since I have made the final decision to adopt my thoughts have been to India, back to the US, to Ethiopia, back to the US, and in my dreams back to Guatemala, the country that will always have my heart. I have prayed about adopting a child with special needs, an older child, a **gasp** newborn, etc.

What I am left with right now is a lot of questions, but very few answers. When my social worker came to complete the home study visit she left with an imcomplete file. Ugh. Will you add me and Ella to your prayers? I want so very much to do the RIGHT THING. I want God to make His plans very clear. What a heavy and blessed burden is on me right now! I am very happy to know that He has another child to add to my family, but this is where my peace ends. I don't know what my next step is. I don't know what the right thing is. I have decided to quit making decisions. I'm going to sit back and try very hard to LISTEN to Him.

Here is a recent picture of me and Ella for those of you who aren't on Facebook yet. And if this is you, what are you waiting for?? Please ignore me - I look horrible. Instead, notice how BIG my baby is! I can't believe it. I asked her last night if she would always be my baby and she assured me that she would. I remember her being placed in my arms like it was yesterday. And now look at her!

Her preschool teacher told me that she is ready to start Kindergarten next year. I might cry. I haven't made up my mind yet about her education. I am still considering one more year of pre-K for her. She is so small (ignore what I wrote above about her being big) and has a late birthday. She might be fine to start K next year, but do I want her to be the smallest and the youngest in middle school? High school? Do I want her to leave me one year sooner for college? NO! But I don't want to be selfish and hold her back for me. Once again, I don't know what to do... I'm getting used to being indecisive.

I'm Pregnant

2010-02-19T09:27:00.000-08:00

MADE you LOOK! I'm not really pregnant, but I am PAPER PREGNANT! Screw my worthless ex-husband and his lack of ability to keep a family together. I can do this by myself! (Um, and with the help of My Jesus, my mommy, my friends and family!) Big talk, I know. I'm pumping myself up for the big game.

So here is where "we" (me and Ella) are...My home study visit is scheduled for March 2nd - then it gets shipped to Heart to Heart in Utah. I'm a virgin when it comes to domestic adoption, but I've had friends that have schooled me well. I will put together a profile and then wait for a birthmother to select us. I know, I know - kind of sounds like online dating, but I met Ella online and it has worked out fabulously!

Here are some pics from the last few weeks. I've been a bad Blogger. I'm having an affair with Facebook...

We love spin art - similar to tye-dye.

Isn't my girl cheesy? Actually I made her pose this way.

Isn't her hair hair gorgeous?! We've been spending some very therapeutic time with Sarah and Sophie. Ella loves her some Sophie Bug...can you tell?

Once again placing her head ever so sweetly on Sophie's shoulder. Sarah and I were talking in another room and we noticed is was suspiciously quiet and when we checked on our angels they were in bed reading. Can you believe it??

Ella, once again, on Sophie's shoulder!

Bath Buddies!
Sarah has been such a great friend to me. This horrible divorce has sucked major ass and she has taken every phone call, responded appropriately to every email I send her no matter how ugly it is, and on top of that has let me practically move in with her. I wish she would marry me. Then we could adopt more and more babies and live happily ever after. But, unfortunately, both of us are straight. :-(

Latin Family Connection - Three King's Day Celebration

2010-01-13T06:37:00.000-08:00

Central Kentucky has a terrific Latin Family Connection group that Ella and I are blessed to be part of. We went to KaZoing! this past weekend to celebrate Three King's Day which is a Latin American tradition.

The Hispanic Tradition of celebrating the Three King’s Day or El Dia De Los Tres Magos actually holds its roots in Catholic Traditions. In the Catholic Tradition, the 6th of January is set aside to celebrate the coming of the three magi to offer gifts to the newly born king. According to the bible, the three kings set off following a star that foretold of the birth of the king of the world.

In ancient times there were many who studied the stars to tell of future events. They were known as astrologers and were highly regarded for their skills. When the stars foretold of the birth of a great king there was a set of kings who set off to offer gifts to the king. These Kings came to King Herod and told him that they were going to honor the newly born king. As the record goes, the King Herod was very jealous and wished to destroy the Jesus. King Herod told the Magi to go and find the baby Jesus and to return to him and let him know where he might also go and pay tribute to the King.

The Magi continued on there journey. After they departed, King Herod plotted to find out where the baby Jesus was so he might kill him.

When the magi came to where the child was, no age is stated; they laid before him Frankincense, myrrh and gold. When they had finished paying tribute to the newly born king, they departed. On their return journey and angel appeared to them and told them of King Herod’s plot to kill Jesus and advised them to not go and see him again. Taking the advice of the angel, the magi turned away from Bethlehem and returned home. When King Herod found out, he was very mad and ordered all children under the age of two be put to death to ensure the death of Jesus there by protecting his reign. An angel then appeared to Joseph and Mary and told them to depart so that Jesus would be spared.

On January 5th, children prepare a box as if for the baby Jesus to lie in. Many of them line it with hay but you can surely use whatever you have, old rags or dry grass. The children then place the boxes under their beds. On January 6th, in the morning they wake up to find three presents in the box for them, or sometimes at the foot of the bed symbolic of the three gifts that were given to the baby Jesus by the Magi.

This Holiday is known to many other Catholics as the Epiphany and is celebrated with a special mass at church. In following with the faith of the Catholic Church, Hispanic Catholics go to mass and celebrate that day with a dinner prepared in celebration. In some Hispanic traditions, they also have that day a King Cake, which is a cake in which is hidden a plastic baby. The lucky one to get the baby Jesus is named the God Parent of the Statue from the Nativity until the following year. They are to prepare and outfit for the baby and to present the statue for baptism at the Catholic Church on the day of Los Calendarios. This is the last day of Christmas and the day in which all decorations are put away until the following Christmas season.

What is so very nice about celebrating the Christmas season is that you stay focused on what the season is really about. Celebrating the birth of Jesus as well as maintaining the purity that comes with the avoidance of commercialization. Another wonderful thing about celebrating traditionally according to Hispanic manner is that you have many opportunities to teach your children about the history and traditions of your faith. The fun is surely there from all the parties and family as well as all the church functions, but you avoid a great deal of the commercialization of the holidays. In turn, you have a longer season of celebrating with fewer costs, more family bonding and more teaching of the religious faith to your children. All those after Christmas sales sure do make for a Merrier Three Kings day for the kids and the parents as well since after all, you do not have to max out your cash supply or credit cards to pay for a one-day event. Instead, you have a fun filled season opposed to a day, covering several days and several parties, with a limit on gifts given only to children on El Dia De Los tres Mago.

Blogger is driving me crazy! I am not able to arrange my pictures in sequential order.

Florida 2009

2009-12-30T05:45:00.000-08:00

Ella and I decided at the very last minute to run away and visit Papa Tom in Florida before Christmas. We had SSSOOO much fun. We played on the beach, walked, swam, hula hooped (pretty sure that hooped is a made up word), and just generally had a fabulous time in paradise. By the end of the week she was ready to come home. Not me. I still wish I was there. I have no idea why I live in a cold state. I was made to live in a sunny, warm state. The air smells good, the sand is fabulous and it is WARM and SUNNY.

(Blogger won't let me arrange my pictures, so they are out of order. Grrrr...)

Bah Humbug!

2009-12-16T07:09:00.000-08:00

My sister's son is the funniest kid (and I mean the opposite of "ha, ha" kind of funny) in the world. He hates being forced to do stupid shit like wear a Rudolph nose and antlers. On top of that he had to walk around the school singing Christmas carols! She said he was humiliated. Do I really need to tell you which one is Daniel in this picture?? I didn't think so! The pictures below are dedicated to Daniel.

Bah Humbug!

Ella Comes Clean

2009-12-09T06:05:00.001-08:00

Each night when Ella watches me wash my face she is amazed at how brave I am. I told her that one day she would be a big girl and then she would be able to wash her face like I do. Last night she was ready to try to be a big girl and wash her face like me.

She started out slowly... a little unsure of herself. Seriously, this is serious business.

Starting to get a little braver...Very proud of herself...And then she passed the point of no return and scrubbed her whole face with soap!Yay! Halfway there. The hard part is over. Now it is time to rinse.Look at me!I DID IT!!!!

Interview with Ella

2009-12-09T05:29:00.000-08:00

Is this not the most precious thing you have ever seen and heard?? Love it, love it, love it! Love her, love her, love her! Love her tiny voice and her sweet heart!

Tis the Season to be Jolly

2009-12-07T11:04:00.000-08:00

I looked through my last few posts and they've just been me talking and talking and talking! So, here are some pictures from the past few days, as well as one from Halloween - apparently I've been talking since October. Ella and I went to Wilson's Nursery on Saturday to see Santa. My brother's band, String Syndicate, also played there. It was fabulous. They had a painting activity set up for the kids and everything.

She didn't freak out on Santa and we were able to get a few good pictures with St. Nick.

The art activity at Wilson's involved paint. Despite the fact that she was wearing my favorite Matilda Jane dress I let her participate.

Wilson's was decorated... A LOT.

I bought her her own tree this year. A purple pre-lit one. Here she is in my boots. I'm just throwing this one in because it is so freakin' cute.Ella is String Syndicate's biggest fan. Here she is with Uncle Dan. He is her biggest fan! This is from Halloween. They're so goofy.

What Every Child Needs

2009-12-07T05:38:00.000-08:00

Hermano Pedro is where we go when we visit Guatemala. I have completely fallen for all of the women and children there. They have stolen my heart and have shown me what His grace and love is. A group that recently visit made a video and posted it on YouTube!

I Want to Stand Next to My Daddy

2009-12-03T12:44:00.000-08:00

I love car rides. Ella and I always have the best conversations in the car. I think she feels she can open up because we are not face-to-face. Yesterday (12-1-09) I was taking Ella to her gymnastics class at the YMCA. Dave usually takes her, but we traded nights. She starts asking me questions about some really difficult topics.

She asked how babies “get here” – I told her God creates everything, including babies. We’ll save the sex talk for when she is older.

The conversation about birth leads to a conversation about death. “What happens when we die? Jesus helps us when we are down here and we help Him when we go up there, right?” I’m not really sure how she came to this conclusion, but it sounded reasonable enough to me so I replied, “Yes.” Then she asked, “Does everyone get to go?” Hmmmm… I think I’ll save that conversation for another day, too.

“Yes, everyone that lets Jesus into their hearts will be with Him in heaven.” She didn’t notice the ambiguous answer I gave her, thank goodness. She didn’t like it when I told her that we are only on this earth for a short while, but we will be in heaven forever.

“Will we get to go to heaven together at the same time?” Crap. I drove right past the YMCA – totally missed my turn, I was so distracted! I told her that we would probably not go at the same time, but that one day we would all be there together forever and ever.

“Will we get to play?” “Yes,” I said “all we will do is play and spend time together.” She seemed to like this. “Will our whole family be together?” I am assuming she asked me this since Dave and I are no longer living together and getting a divorce. “Yes, all of us will be there together.” I looked into the rear view mirror and saw her face shining and happy. “Well then I want to stand next to my Daddy in heaven forever and ever.”

What a precious, precious angel Dave and I have been blessed with!

Wordle.net

2009-12-02T11:46:00.000-08:00

Fun, fun! Go to Wordle.Net and paste your blog's URL to create your own Beautiful Word Cloud. You can also copy and paste poems, song lyrics, etc. and play around with different word clouds. I tried to make word clouds for some of my friends but I can't figure out how to send it to you guys, so you will just have to make your own!

Peace and Hugs,
Becca

Permission to Cry

2009-11-30T09:57:00.000-08:00

Oh, the trauma of Ella’s tender head! She does not enjoy washing her hair, brushing it or fixing it. She barely lets me blow it dry. (If I don’t you should see the end result!) However she likes her hair long. We cut it short once and she didn’t like it. Plus she still cried when we had to take care of it – even though it was short.

The other night I was giving her a bath. We washed her hair and she cried. I asked her if she wanted to get it cut short. “No!” So when I rinsed it and she continued to cry I mentioned cutting it again. “No! I like it long.” Then when it was time to brush it and blow dry it she STILL continued to cry. I was so frustrated. I’d had enough. “Ella, we are going to cut your hair. You want it long, but you cry when we wash it, brush it, dry it and fix it.” And then she said something that really touched my heart. “Mommy, I want it my hair long. I know it is going to hurt. Can’t I just cry when it hurts?” Yes. She asked for permission to cry. Permission granted. Sometimes we all just need to cry.

There are things in life that hurt. And we choose them. We make the choice to be a mom… Even though it makes us cry sometimes. We make the choice to participate in friendships and other relationships knowing that there is a possibility that at times these relationships might hurt and make us cry. We make the choice to travel back to Guatemala even though we know what we will see will break our hearts and make us cry. We make the choice to get married… Even though it might end in divorce. And it will hurt and make us cry. Permission granted. Sometimes we all just need to cry.

Easier Said Than Done

2009-11-24T12:09:00.000-08:00

"Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, Bless—that's your job, to Bless. You'll be a blessing and also get a blessing."

My friend sent this to me today. I don't know if she read my blog post yesterday or not. So, I am making efforts to be agreeable, sympathetic, compassionate and humble. These are somewhat easier for me. But no retaliation?! no sharp-tongued sarcasm?! This one is a struggle that I will need help with. :-)

I do want to raise Ella to have these characteristics, so I guess the best way to lead is by example. I do feel at times that I am owed the right to respond to some people in a negative way. I feel like I have the right to be impatient and irritable. Don't these people know what I'm going through? And then I catch myself feeling so righteous and I hate myself for it. How selfish. How self-centered.

But then I realize... EVERYONE is going through something difficult. Everyone is experiencing trials. So, with that being said I apologize for being so focused on myself and for being short-sighted and only seeing the struggles in MY life while turning a blind eye to what my family and friends are going through. Not to mention what the rest of this crazy world is experiencing. A couple of Sundays ago our church service suggested taking the focus off of oneself and placing that focus on others.

Praying that we all receive peace and grace. And hugs.

Making the Readers Work - Your Homework Assignment

2009-11-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

This time of year wears me out. And this freaking divorce is wearing me out. I'm wearing myself out. Will someone please blow some sunshine up my ass??

Please leave a comment that includes your favorite poem, song, bible verse, link, etc. Check out what others are leaving. I'll go first... (You'll want to mute my music that automatically loads.)

Dave Matthews singing John Lennon

Favorite Foto Friday - Giving Thanks!

2009-11-20T13:15:00.000-08:00

I have almost "virtually" vanished. I have deactivated my Facebook account and haven't blogged for weeks. I am definitely in a melancholy mood - to put it lightly. BUT my family had a wonderful week! PRAISE REPORT! My dearly beloved brother-in-law had a yucky, icky spot on his lung. The doctors said the "c" word. (Most of you guys know my twin sister, Angela? This is her husband.) So he had surgery on Monday and... guess what??? The spot was removed, along with two lymph nodes, and everything was benign! Yay! So we are definitely in the mood for giving thanks! See pics below... Aren't they adorable??

And then I receive Dick Rutger's journal update and find a very large and gorgeous picture of my favorite kid at Hermano Pedro -Perla! I am so happy to hear that she is doing well and I always get super excited to see pics of her. During the short time I have had the opportunity to hold and love on her I have completely fallen head over heals for her.

I am also very thankful for my family and my friends - who are one in the same to me. There really aren't enough words to describe how fabulous my mother is, how great my brother and sister are, how terrific my dad is... And don't even get me started on my aunts, cousins and friends! Isn't this one great? Me, Angela and Danny with our cousins Jimmy and Michael... circa 1980? My post would be never ending. So big happy hugs to all of you from me and Ella.

Favorite Foto Friday - Black and White

2009-11-06T10:09:00.001-08:00

She was such a sweet little baby! Now she's all grown up. I don't even think she was two years old yet.

Favorite Foto Friday - Adventure!

2009-10-23T05:57:00.000-07:00

Today's theme is ADVENTURE! We had an adventure last weekend when we went to Boyd's Apple Orchard. Ella went down the big slide all by herself. I had to go with her last year. She loved it!My favorite adventures have all taken place in Guatemala! This is a picture from the second time I went. I climbed to the roof of our "hotel" and touched the sky. Awesome!This is a picture from my third trip. Me and my soul sister, Greta Jo. I love sharing adventures with her!We met the nicest people who happened to be staying in our hotel and volunteering at the same orphanage where we were working. Hi, Dawn!

Those of you that have seen me in person know that I am short and small. Don't I look ginormous next to this Mayan woman?? A new perspective. Suddenly I am the big, tall American woman!

An Interview with Ella

2009-10-21T13:18:00.000-07:00

Boyd's Apple Orchard

2009-10-19T13:15:00.001-07:00

Those of you that know me well know that I DESPISE fall and winter. I hate cold, dark weather. HATE - which is a word we are not allowed to use in our house (it is almost as bad as fuck) is not strong enough to describe how I feel about these formidable months. BUT there is one thing I do like... Apple Orchards/Pumpkin Patches! We go every year. In fact, we go a few times every year. We went yesterday and are going again on Saturday, weather permitting. Laura and Jonathan went with us. They are two of our favorite cousins. Ella LOVES them. I had to buy her jelly beans to get her to let me take her picture.
Laura and JT - beautiful, aren't they?Ella and JonathanMy smidget trying to get a better view of the aminals. Yes, aminals. She almost kicked this little boy's ass. He threw sand on her.
Here is her expression when I tell her she can't kick this little boy's ass.

Cheese - fake smile!

WOW! She did this a couple times. Last year I had to go with her.

Once again, thinking of the mean little boy.

This is one of my favorite pictures from the day.

She could do so much more this year than she could last year. She is getting so big!

Even though Dave and I are getting a divorce we decided to let him come. Here is the picture I took of him.

Here are some posts from this time last year. You should check them out. I can't believe how much has changed!

Louisville Boo - with Sarah and Sophie

Happy Jack's - with Angela and kids, Laura and JT, pregnant Amber and Flynn

Favorite Foto Friday - Orange

2009-10-16T06:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, yes - I know, I know! Ella is not wearing orange. But I love these new pictures - she looks so beautiful and grown up. I've made my peace with my baby becoming a little girl. Isn't she gorgeous? My friend Leigh Anne and I had a conversation about the way that America defines "beautiful" and how Ella does not fit into the American definition of beauty. She blows it out of the water. The one word that comes to mind - even when I am searching for words to define something like her outer appearance - is STRONG. She is so strong and resilient and can be as sweet as can be - yet she has a certain toughness about her. Not a mean toughness (OK... a little bit mean) but one that reassures me that she can take care of herself on the playground. Look at that expression. Sweet and sassy! This is her best friend Morgan. I love this picture. I love the way they are dressed. (There is orange in her skirt.) I love how they are leaning on one another. I even love the difference in height. They are blessed to have one another. And here is my bookworm. She not only has an indescribable beauty, is a terrific and loyal friend, is sugar and spice with a dash of pepper with a great personality - on top of all of that she is SMART.

My Tiny Tumbler

2009-10-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

We have had so much fun the past few weeks. Birthday parties, tumble classes, etc. Here are some of my favorite pictures.

Way Back Wednesday

2009-10-07T05:55:00.000-07:00

Can you believe my BIG girl used to be this little?? Those were definitely simpler times!

Marlene's Stats

2009-10-06T12:07:00.000-07:00

Click here to learn more about our beloved Guatemala. This will also provide an opportunity for you to give back!

Peace and Hugs,
Becca

Silent Auction Update ~ How to be a Trickster!

2009-10-06T11:01:00.000-07:00

Aimee/Mayna's Momma (She's Going Bananas) is so far our most generous bidder! She has bid $50 on the Kick-Ass Bows gift certificate that Holly has donated. Thanks to both of these women!

Now that aside ~ let me tell you how to sneak in and pull this right out of Aimee's hands. Sshh!! Don't tell her I'm doing this!

What you need to do is go to my original post and bid more than $50... Like $51. Or $52. I know, I know - it is tricky and mean - but you're being tricky and mean for a wonderful cause! And honestly... I don't think Aimee will get too mad at you. She may forgive you in a couple years. :-) If it would make you feel better you could let her know.

And for those of you who have had trouble donating - Marlene has fixed the problem!! The donation button on the left is up and working.

Peace and Hugs,

Becca

Guatemala Food Project Silent Auction - Kick-Ass Bows Gift Certificate

2009-10-01T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hello to all my fellow Bloggers and Guatemamas! If you've been staying up to date on current events then you know what I'm getting ready to write about. I've been writing about it for weeks now. At least on Facebook... (Bad Blogger!)Guatemala is in a severe state of calamity. Women and children are suffering. And we can't tolerate that. Guatemala is dealing with one of the worst droughts ever. Children are suffering from chronic malnutrition and literally starving to death. If you're like me and have a precious angel from Guatemala then you know what happens when you look into the faces in these pictures. You see YOUR child. Because you know good and well that had your son or daughter not come home that he or she might be in a similar condition. Sucks, doesn't it? Keeps me up at night. Keeps me very aware of my blessings.

According to UNICEF (I know, I know - not one of our favorite organizations), the United National children's fund, more than 60 percent of families in Guatemala cannot afford an adequate diet. UNICEF reports that Guatemala has the worst malnutrition problem in Latin America, even higher than the 35.2 percent average in Africa. Nearly half of all Guatemalan children suffer from malnutrition which has a direct and negative impact on their physical and mental growth, severely compromising their educational prospects. The problem of malnutrition is most acute among Guatemala's Mayan people (40% of the total population). Nearly 70 percent of Mayan children are malnourished.

The UNICEF representative in Guatemala, Manuel Manrique, has said that the effects of malnutrition on child development are like a "life sentence" because it "compromises their health, their ability to learn, and their growth." Ironically, the Latin American region produces three times the amount of food needed to feed its population.
Can you imagine being a mother carrying this burden? Can you imagine holding your child in your lap because they are too weak to hold themselves up? Can you imagine trying to calm them while they cry from hunger pains. Can you imagine how horrible that must be?? Keeps me up at night. Makes me want to scream obscenities from my roof. But I won't. All that will do is get my arrested or put away. Instead I'm going to help Marlene Koenig DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT. Marlene is going in December to do what she can for these women and children. And guess who else is helping? The One And Only Holly Grigoli! She has donated one $25 Kick-Ass Bows gift certificate. I am starting a silent auction. It will start now and begin at $25. It will end next Friday, October 9th at 12:00 noon. So leave a comment and let's raise some money for OUR kids!

If you would like to give but you are not interested in participating in the silent auction you can still give. See the button the left of the screen? Click there to donate to Marlene's mission trip. She's preparing to head to Guatemala in December. Love and bless her very huge heart! And pray for my jealous heart. I want to go, but alas, it just isn't in the stars. Damnit. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO LINK THIS POST TO YOUR BLOG!

Hidden Hunger in Guatemala

2009-09-30T08:23:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8OtvYVkyis

Nikki ~ Blogs for a Cause

2009-09-29T06:19:00.000-07:00

So what do you guys think of my new makeover? Doesn't Nikki kick some major ass? And all of her money goes to help her do volunteer work. What an awesome girl. Check her out and give your old and faded blog a face lift.

Peace and Hugs,
Becca

http://www.madebynikki.blogspot.com/

What Happens When Papa Babysits

2009-09-16T06:59:00.000-07:00

Ella didn't have school yesterday and I didn't find out until almost 8:00. I had to rush her to Papa Tom's house. We love Papa, but he has his own ideas about naps, lunch, etc. He doesn't follow the "recommended routine" and finds it nearly impossible to stick to the schedule. Throughout the day he sent me some pictures. I think he did this so I won't call him at 7:45 AM and ask him to keep Ella. Just kidding - a good time was had by all! Ella loves her Papa Tom.

This first one was taken when she was supposed to be taking a nap. He asked her to pretend to be asleep.I'm not sure what was going on when this one was taken. It looks like a crime scene to me. I was relieved to find my baby alive and well at the end of the day!

Jesus, Heavenly Watermelons & Skin Color

2009-09-15T06:12:00.001-07:00

Last night Ella and I were praying before we went to bed. After we finished she asked me, "How does He hear us?" I told her that He is very great and can hear us when we talk to Him. She asked, "What if Jasmine (our neighbor) is praying at the same time? Who does He listen to?" I told her that He can hear everyone pray and that He is used to hearing lots of people talk to Him at the same time.

We had watermelon that my mother had sent home with us. Ella loves watermelon. So then she asked me, "How will we eat in heaven?" I told her that we will have plenty to eat. She asked if there will be watermelon. I told her that Jesus will plant watermelon in the garden He makes for her. Sweet and easy so far, right?

Then...

"Mommy, did He make me?"

"Yes. He made me, too. He made all of us."

"Well, why didn't He know?"

"Why didn't He know what?"

"Why didn't He know that He should have made me with white skin to match you?"

Crap.

"I want to be white like you are. Or I want you to be brown like me."

Double crap.

"Ella, Jesus isn't as concerned about the work He does on the outside of our bodies. He is more focused on our insides. He made my heart to be with your heart, and that is all that matters. Our hearts match."

"Oh, OK."

I know her. I know she is still thinking about all of this. She has been very... well, I wouldn't say concerned, but she has been very aware of skin color lately.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-09-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

Our First Four Years

2009-09-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

Wow - I can't believe Ella is four years old. Here is a video I put together of my baby. You'll want to pause the music from the playist on the right side of your screen. The song is This is Home by Lucy Kaplanky - from her CD The Red Thread.

Taking a Walk Down Memory Lane

2009-09-02T08:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry for yesterday's negative, yucky post. I watched this video and it certainly made me feel better! Look how tiny she was. I can't believe it. She is four years old now. She's smart, beautiful, happy and healthy. I have nothing to complain about, do I? I am blessed!

I'm Going Hungry

2009-08-28T06:28:00.001-07:00

Favorite Foto Friday + Birthday Cupcakes with Icing!

2009-08-20T12:45:00.001-07:00

Yes. I know it is Thursday. Which is good, considering this morning I thought today was Friday. I wore jeans to work and everything. I am so out of it lately. I can't concentrate on anything. I haven't finished a book in months. I can't wait until this stupid "transition period" is over and I can start to sleep again - and CONCENTRATE! Since the "Big D" I have also changed personality types. Isn't that weird? I used to be ISFJ (Quiet, friendly, responsible, conscientious - Patient with detail and routine) and now I am ENFP (warmly enthusiastic, high-spirited, ingenious, imaginative - often rely on ability to improvise rather than prepare in advance). And speaking of flying by the seat of my pants - here are some pics from Ella's birthday party - it lacked planning and relied totally on improvisation! The kids loved it anyway. What kid doesn't love tupperware filled with loads of icing and a "no rules" rule?!

I can't believe my baby girl is four. Well, she'll be four at the end of the month. It is hard not to think of her birthmother and send her extra prayers and feelings of gratitude. This day is special for me and Ella - filled with joy and celebration. Probably a very bittersweet day for Gloria. I still am in awe with her selflessness and grace. I pray to one day meet her and hug the hell out of her! I want her to see our daughter - I know she will be just as amazed at the girl Ella is growing up to be as I am.

Catching up with Friends

2009-08-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Yes. I am extremely lazy. If you want to see how Ella and I spent our weekend click HERE to go to Hannah's blog. We had an awesome time!!!

Peace and Hugs,
Becca

First Days of School

2009-08-13T13:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is in school now. She'll turn four in just a couple of weeks. And Myles is now in 4th grade! I still rarely get to see him since The Separation/Divorce (don't even get me started), but I gave Dave my camera and he got a shot of Myles and Ella together in front of school during orientation. First Day = serious about this shit!
First Day = I see London, I see France...
First Day = PRECIOUS

First Day = the first time Ella has ever seen 6:00 AM

First Day = awesome pair of red shoes

First Day = Cheese!

My niece Hannah and nephew Daniel had their first day of school last week. Daniel (who is six) finally started K. I didn't think my sister was ever going to let him start... I guess that's how you are with your baby!

Kick-Ass Cousins

2009-08-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

Ella's cousin came over last night and we played with hair, makeup, nails and on top of that they played soccer. Whew - I wish I had their energy. I loved watching them play soccer with all their makeup on! Cool girls can do it ALL!

Guatemala 2009, Part One

2009-07-30T12:52:00.001-07:00

We're home!!!! Our tiny team of three had a fantastic time. What a blessing this trip was. I can't think of one negative thing to say about it. I love my "team"!!

Me and my twin sister, Angela

Angela and Greta Jo

Me and my soul sister, Gret

I've been home now for a few days and have thought a lot about my trip. I've looked through my pictures (all 300+) and talked to all my friends about it. I love Guatemala. It felt like home this time. Don't get me wrong - I was a total cheesy tourist, but it still felt like home. It was so great to see the kids from Hermano Pedro again. Some doing better than the last time I saw them... Some not doing so well. It was great seeing Dick Rutgers again. Please keep him in your prayers. He is going through a hard time right now. Prayers are the only thing he asked for. I'll write more about that later.

Angela, Greta Jo and myself landed in Guatemala City in the early afternoon. We found our ride and headed straight to Antigua. We threw our luggage in our fabulous room (Posada Landivar) and ran to Hermano Pedro. I looked for Perla right away. Couldn't find her. So, I went to find Lupe. Couldn't find her, either. When I finally found Perla I was in heaven! She has put on ssoo much weight. Every new fat roll was beautiful. She initially entered Hermano Pedro in the malnutrition ward. When I think back to the first time I walked into Hermano Pedro and compare it to this time I notice MANY differences. It was not as shocking this time. There were no tears of sadness, no feelings of hopelessness - only feelings of joy and excitement. I have said many times how lucky I am that the Lord picked this particular burden to weigh on my heart. My "blessed burden" that I am grateful for.

Here are a few pics. I'll write more about my trip later. Wait until I tell you about our Central Park experience. What a circus! I also can't wait to share about my reunion with Perla and Lupe. Sweet!

I ran into this little boy EVERYDAY. Isn't he beautiful? He made my day.Beautiful little girl we played with in the park.

There was another mission team there from Ohio. I had the opportunity to talk to a few of them. My favorite new friend from their team is Dawn. She has a terrific sense of humor and we hit it off right away. I was surprised to see that someone had taken my picture and put it on a billboard right in the middle of Guatemala City! Just kidding - my friend Dawn told me about this funny website where you can play with your pics and add them to funny settings. I took this one of myself in our hotel room.

La Princesa = Mommy Love

2009-07-15T10:37:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been overwhelmed with Mommy Love? It sneaks up on me. (Usually comes upon me while I watch her SLEEP!) Today I am overwhelmed with Mommy Love for La Princesa. I think maybe because I will be leaving her for six nights (Yikes!) next week. And speaking of leaving... Did I tell you that I would prefer to walk back to Guatemala rather than fly? Someone overheard me describing my complete and total fear of flying. Not just a regular fear - the kind where I have to breathe the entire time and make myself stay in my seat to keep from jumping and running to the door to pry it open. (I hate fear. Fear sucks and can be so controlling.) Anyway, the person that heard me describing this asked me why I am traveling back to Guatemala. Here is why. I love - I love my princess. I can't wait until I can travel back to her birth country with her. I want to show her what a beautiful country she came from. I want her to see how beautiful the people are. I want her to see how important it will be for her to make a connection with Guatemala and give back in any way, shape or form that she can. Check out these pics. Time flies by so fast!

La Princesa in 2005 La Princesa in 2006La Princesa in 2007La Princesa in 2008
La Princesa in 2009

Totally Terrific Tuesday!!

2009-07-14T06:56:00.001-07:00

Ella has had lots of fun lately. Her friend L. got to hang out with us for a little while. I bought the girls some pink hair spray. They loved it! L. is my friend Leigh Anne's niece. Leigh Anne sprayed pink on her hair, too! Aren't they precious together?

Beautiful!

One of my friends has an "official" job. Here is Ella in his "official" jacket. She is such a peanut! This picture was taken on the fourth of July. It rained and rained and rained. But we had a good time despite the rain. We stayed so long at our friend's house that Ella actually ASKED me to take her home because she wanted to go to bed. Then she slept until 11:30 the next morning! (Yes, many of you are jealous right now. My girl can be quite a sleeper!)

Okay, guys - the countdown is on. Me, Angela and Greta Jo leave for Guatemala in one week! Please keep us and our children (and the hands that will be caring for them while we are gone) in your prayers! Here are some pics from our last trip.

Me and Greta Jo - I am so blessed to be her friend.

Dick Rutgers - my HERO! This man truly is amazing.

Me and my sister Angela

Hermano Pedro

Our crew - just three of us going this time around.

Temper Tantrum 101 AKA "My Tiny Terror"

2009-07-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

OK. I admit it. I am not always patient and pleasant. There. I said it. Now you know the truth. The ugly truth. Unfortunately, I am worried that Ella is inheriting my knack for swinging through moods quicker than a monkey through trees. And I've been making excuses for her. I'll tell myself (and anyone else that might be around when she goes into a fit) that she is adjusting to my divorce. She's hungry. She's overly tired. She's had a big week. She hasn't pooped. And quite honestly the truth is - she just isn't getting her way. She happens to be a three year-old (almost four-year old) control freak. She is twenty-five pounds of TNT.

She will brush her teeth when she is damn well ready. She will choose whichever toothpaste she wants and one that is "too spicy" one morning might be exactly what she needs the next morning. She will let you know how she wants her hair fixed. She will decide if she will walk or if Her Highness shall be carried. She will choose what she wants to wear, what she wants to eat and when, what and when she will watch television, the topic of conversation, the weather for the day, etc.

PLEASE - is there anyone out there feeling my pain??!! She will decide which nights she will go to sleep by herself and which ones she needs me to stay in bed with her until she falls asleep. (And yes, since The Separation we have one bed.) After she wakes up in the morning she will decide if Momma will wipe her butt and put her panties on while she lounges in bed or if she will drag herself out of bed and dress herself. And if any and all of the above are not done without question she will FREAK OUT on you! Not that I let her win. Sometimes I do. Sometimes I'd rather give in and have a few moments of peace. Other times this Momma is up for the fight.

I laugh at how uppity I used to be about spanking. "Spanking?" I would say in obvious distaste. "You can't teach nonviolence and spank your child at the same time!" What fools these mommies were!

Now I humbly admit defeat. Ella demands at least one or two spankings a month - if not more. She received one last night.

Go ahead, ask me why. Well, you see, we were in bed trying to go to sleep. And she had a very long weekend, she was overly tired and she hadn't pooped. And she was being defiant. In the dark I felt her pointing her finger at my nose. "Ella, lay down and go to sleep. No more games. Mommy is serious." Still she kept her finger in my face.

And let me stop here. I know what you're thinking. You're thinking Ella was playing a child's game. No, she wasn't. I can tell when she is in a playful mood and when she is being defiant. I saw her precious face lit up by the moonlight. And she was pissed. How dare I tell her to lay down and go to sleep! How dare I tell her to remove her finger from my nose!

So after warnings of time-outs and many tries to reason with my beloved child I told her that if she did not remove her finger from my nose I was going to have to spank her. Her finger pointed at me like a dare. This precious daughter of mine was daring me. So I sighed heavily and followed through with it. I didn't want to. I knew the consequences that would follow such a late night spanking. Tears and a huge fit followed. Snot, near vomit and hyperventilation. Ugh. Please - do I have a Sister out there who is feeling my pain? Please back me up and tell me that I am not the worst mother in the world raising an out-of-control angel.

Favorite Foto Friday Hide-N-Seek!

2009-06-26T07:04:00.000-07:00

This is how Ella gets me to play with her when I have to do housework. Quite creative, I think! She scared the crap out of me.

Mommy needs to do the laundry. I can't play hide-n-seek right now.

Then I hear a giggle. Can't figure out where it is coming from. Then I see a little black head in the dirty laundry!The Dirty Laundry Monster!But no worries, the Dirty Laundry Monster is FRIENDLY!
But, the monster refuses to leave it's home. Which means Mommy can't get to the dirty laundry.
Wait! Oh, crap! Where did she put all of the dirty laundry??

Then we're off to play hide-n-seek with the laundry!

Guat Tot Birthday Party!

2009-06-23T10:41:00.001-07:00

I love getting to hang out with other adoptive families. This past weekend I got to spend some time with some of my favorites...

Happy Birthday, C!

Ella and the Birthday GirlGetting ready to fly through the air...

Sophie's turn next!

R did not want to...

He liked the cupcake part of the party much better!Where's my cake??
Two of my favorite people!Miss G smiling for the camera, but more interested in what's going on across the room... Hey, there's dancing, too?! (Isn't she beautiful?)And Welcome Home, T!!!

Blessings and Responsibility

2009-06-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

I've gone back and forth about this post. I am afraid/worried about sounding "preachy" - keep in mind that this is my opinion. I've decided to post it because I believe that once your eyes are opened to a situation you are held responsible and accountable. When I adopted Ella from Guatemala I knew that I would be responsible for her. I was looking forward to the responsibilities that come with being a mother. The good ones as well as the bad. I was prepared.

What I wasn't prepared for was what I would see when I traveled to bring her home. I have traveled to different countries before - I've been to Canada, France, England, etc. NOTHING would prepare me for what I was going to have my eyes opened to when I landed in Guatemala. I had never seen such beauty - nor such poverty. Children begging in the streets, women willing to sell their bodies to feed their children. So, while I was blessed to have my eyes opened I am also held accountable for what I have seen.

When I met Greta Jo, Paula and Erin I was blessed yet again with lifelong friends who share a similar conviction in their hearts. Last September we traveled back to Guatemala to work with Dick Rutgers and volunteer at Hermano Pedro in Antigua. I remember walking into Hermano Pedro with our mission team. I remember meeting Dick Rutgers and Mary Margaret and being amazed at how giving and loving these two people are.

I remember the tears all of us cried while we walked through the malnutrition ward. What went through my mind - the prayer I was praying - "Thank you, Jesus, for Ella. Thank you. Thank you." I was terrified at how easily her life could have taken a different turn - it still terrifies me to this day. I remember the prayer my sister prayed while we stood outside the malnutrition ward. Greta Jo and I just held one another tight and gave thanks to God that our babies were home - with full bellies and loving arms around them.

The children live their days and nights in cribs. They are so physically and mentally challenged that they can't get out of bed on their own. We walked through room after room after room. We saw men, women and children lying - some tied to - beds and cribs. They're lucky if they get to spend a few hours a day in their wheelchair. The nurses who care for them are so rushed and hurried to get them all fed that they cut large holes in the nipples of the bottles. The children are so scared of the bottle - it chokes them. Some of them develop pneumonia from the formula that gets into their lungs during their feeding.

We are leaving in July to visit these men, women and children again. Please pray for our team as we once again prepare to follow the path that He has chosen for us. It is a harsh road to SEE, but an even harsher road to LIVE on and WALK. We are all blessed. We're not walking down the hard road these precious angels are. Neither are our children. BUT for those of us who have seen - I believe it is our responsibility to do something about it.

Please pray for Florinda. This picture is hard to look at. Some people might prefer to not see this. But it is a reality. Right now this angel needs our prayers. And I pray that I might get the opportunity to meet and love on her.

Going Back to Guatemala!

2009-06-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

I realize that this makes two posts in one day (gasp!), but I am so excited!!! Greta Jo and I are heading back to Antigua in July and will be working in the same orphanage as last time. I can't wait to get my hands on those kids!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-06-12T06:28:00.001-07:00

Dena pointed that I have been neglecting my blog. I am so addicted to Facebook. I am a terrible Blogger, I know!

Well, I'm feeling kind of down today. Yesterday was my five year wedding anniversary. Needless to say that it was difficult. And to make things worse Dave brought Ella home from soccer practice and both of them had a hard time when he left. She loves him so much, and he loves her, too. Life rarely turns out like we plan, does it? I just held her in my lap and cried with her.

This sucks. It is a weird mix of emotions on many levels. I am excited in some ways. Dave doesn't want any more children -and I do, so our divorce will open a door in that respect. And I am currently praying and preparing for the possibility of another child! But then I wonder... What will I say to that child when Ella goes to Daddy's for the weekend? Who will be her father? And what about Myles? Will he be a "brother" to another child?? And on that note - God, I miss Myles. Dave and I started dating when he was two and now he is nine. I rarely get to see him. I try to just focus on Ella and making sure that she is getting all of the support that she needs with this transition.

And Walfred's birthday is this month. He'll turn 5 on the 21st. I still am no closer to finding out where he is and what happened. Hopefully Greta Jo and I will return to Guatemala sometime in July. I really hope so. I miss it. I would love to be able to spend a couple months there every year when Ella gets older. What a great way to spend summer vacations!

Well, here are some pictures from this past week. Frankfort had it's annual Expo. My sister brought her two kids in and we all had a great time. Here are some pics of the kiddos painting pottery.My brother's band played some bluegrass. Flattcreek was great! I also had the chance to hang out with my girlfriends. I do not know what I would do without them. They're more like sisters, really. We went to see Patty Griffin, Emmylou Harris, Shawn Colvin and Buddy Miller in concert. It was nothing short of FANTASTIC!

And I leave you with one final thought...YES! He is.

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-05-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

Updated pics of The Bean!

And a big shout out and hug to Greta Jo - missing you and loving you, dear Friend! "Hanging in there" is much easier to do with you by my side. (Figuratively speaking, not literally seeing as how we live states and states away from one another. What ARE we going to do about that??)

Favorite Foto Friday - Bloopers!

2009-05-15T06:21:00.001-07:00

Ok - I just can't help myself. Here is a picture of my blooper - won't be marrying him again! I know, I know... I just couldn't resist.

Favorite Foto Friday - Mommy Day!!!!

2009-05-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Mommy - My Mommy!My other Favorite Mommies! My bestest friends...Now get ready to see some pictures of me and my angel!

And we lived happily ever after...

Etiquette? Screw That!

2009-05-05T11:36:00.001-07:00

Ella and her cousin Kaydence decided to have a tea party. I gave them a real tea pot and set them up outside. Good thing I did...The girls decided "to hell with tea party etiquette!" and started tossing it around everywhere. And dancing in it like the wild children that they are!This is the smug "kiss my butt" smile that Ella gave me when I put her in time-out...

I cannot imagine where she gets it. Can you??

My Favorite People in the World

2009-05-02T14:44:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Lord for REAL FRIENDS who stick with me through the good times, as well as the rough ones!

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-05-01T11:33:00.000-07:00

This is the happiest smile!

This is my favorite goofy smile!

This is the sweetest smile!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

Favorite Foto Friday - Summer Haircut!

2009-04-24T06:52:00.000-07:00

Yes - I know we are all attached to our little girls' long hair - but Ella is SO tender-headed! I had to chop it all off again. It had been over a year since her last haircut. I know she looks older, I know some of you will be sad, but both she and I LOVE IT! We didn't even have to brush it this morning. It was fabulous! She is the cutest Bean in the world!

My Favorite Foto Friday

2009-04-17T08:58:00.001-07:00

OK, ok... I know this isn't an actual FFF. But this cracks me up and sums up my life right now. Peace and Hugs to all my freaky friends! (That's just for Hannah - the rest of you are normal, I am sure of it.)

Favorite Foto Friday

2009-04-03T05:53:00.000-07:00

If you're on Facebook you've already seen these pics from our spring photo shoot. If you're not on Facebook - well, you're missing out on a lot! Happy Friday - Ella and I send love and hugs to you!

We Have the Same Eyes

2009-04-01T06:22:00.000-07:00

Ella and I were looking at the picture we have of her birthmother holding her. I am amazed to see how much Ella looks like her - more and more everyday. She is beautiful. I was telling her about how they look alike. She said, "But we have the same color eyes." Thank you, Jesus, for giving me brown eyes. I love Ella's birthmother and want Ella to, as well. But I am also very grateful for the similarities that Ella and I have. We have similar mannerisms, similar attitudes (at times!) and both have a soft heart. I know each family deals with topics/situations differently. I try to celebrate all of the strong women who have loved Ella and played such an important role in her life. We pray every night and give thanks for her birthmother and her foster mother. And we begin each prayer the same. Thank you, Jesus, for bringing Daddy, Mommy, Myles and Ella together... Even through this hard transition (don't you love how people call divorce a "transition??") I am thankful that the four of us have been brought together. As she gets older and life takes these winding roads I find myself dealing with harder and harder topics. I try to use each opportunity to teach understanding, grace and faith. I am not always successful, but some times I am. And at the end of a hard day I look at her and realize how truly BLESSED I am. No matter what happens in my life I have been given the best gift. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be her forever mommy. Nothing else really matters.

How to do the Splits

2009-03-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

First - get a running start...Next - balance on one leg while throwing the other leg up in the air!Then you look at the camera and smile - you did it!And that's how we roll here in KY. See ya later tater.

Favorite Foto Friday - Then & Now

2009-03-13T09:13:00.000-07:00

Then

Now

Favorite Foto Friday - February Favorite

2009-03-06T05:54:00.001-08:00

Hey, Friends! I know it has been WEEKS since I have participated in FFF, but I couldn't miss this one. Check out Ella in full make-up. With "gwown-up" lipstick - and her outfit... I can't take credit for it (thank goodness!). She picked everything out on her own. Friends at church have commented on how she already has a signature style at three years old. She and I are adjusting well to our new apartment and getting into our own routine. Things are definitely different, but also definitely good!

Guatemalan Princess

2009-03-05T07:59:00.000-08:00

Sleeping Beauty

2009-02-25T08:29:00.001-08:00

Life has been pretty crazy lately, but look who I get to snuggle up to at night. Thanks for all the prayers.

Forever Family Day #3

2009-02-06T05:38:00.000-08:00

Wow - what a day. Ella, I am so lucky to be your Mommy. No matter what changes our lives may go through, one thing is for sure - I am your forever Mommy and you are forever my daughter. You are His Grace walking around on Earth holding my heart in your hand. Forever.

Happy Anniversary!

Then and Now...

Three King's Day

2009-01-22T10:06:00.000-08:00

Our Latin Family Connection group celebrated Three King's Day at "the bouncing place" as Ella calls it. My friend, Anita, made a traditional cake and we even crowned a king and queen. Here are some super cute pics of some super cute kids!

Back from Florida

2008-12-24T08:21:00.001-08:00

I got home last night from Florida. I went to visit my Dad by myself. I missed the kids, but it was so very nice to have some free time!

Snow Day!

2008-12-16T11:50:00.000-08:00

Myles had a snow day today!

Christmas Elves

2008-12-14T15:10:00.001-08:00

Have you been naughty or nice? Or, as we say in our house... Are you making good choices?

Ella Can Read! Yummy & Yucky

2008-12-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas Tea at Shakertown

2008-12-07T19:24:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite Christmas traditions - Tea at Shakertown with my girlfriends from work, and of course, Ella.

And yes, this is the dress she wore last Christmas. She's grown as big as she is going to get!

She is the most beautiful child I have ever seen! Look at this smile!

Watch Out, Michael Jordan!

2008-12-01T17:43:00.000-08:00

Check out my cousins. They are really tall. Thomas plays baseball for U of L. Ella is actually scared of him. Just look at her size compared to his. His nephew, Jonathan, is one month older than Myles. And the size difference between the two of them is huge, as well. Let's just say that neither of my kids are going to grow up to be basketball players... Or are they?Ella started basketball practice last week. Her teacher's name is Mrs. Melissa and she is the sweetest. There are four of five boys on the team --- and then there is Ella.

I love this picture, "You must be this tall to ride this ride."

Cute Random Pictures - Feeling all Gooey About My Daughter!

2008-11-25T18:51:00.001-08:00

Do you ever look at your child and it takes your breath away? Damn, I am so blessed. Look at this angel. I am not romanticizing parenthood - it is hard and frustrating and makes me want to bang my head against the wall on a DAILY basis - but she asked to hold my hand tonight when I was putting her to bed... True love!

Ella and her cousin JT Looking very cute and sassy!
What a gorgeous smile - gorgeous hair? Not so much...

Playing hide-n-seek

And one of my very favorite pictures of her - captures her personality perfectly!

FFF - Boo Hoo

2008-11-20T18:07:00.000-08:00

Well, I tried to get an actual picture of the kids crying, but as fate would have it they didn't honestly cry until 8:00 this evening - and are currently still crying. It is 9:18. I am ready to pull my hair out! Dave just asked me why we have two of the most dramatic kids in the world. Good question. (I don't have the heart to take their picture right now - it seems cruel!)

Well, obviously this picture is a fake. I asked them to pretend like they were crying. Myles got up from the table and sat down on the floor. "I need to meditate, " he said. Then he sat cross-legged and put his palms down on his knees like he was in yoga class. I even added some water tears. So full of it! And of course Monkey See, Monkey Do had to join in. They then began to fake-cry. You can see that Myles is better at it. Ella kept getting tickled at him and laughing. But boy, you guys should be in my house right now - D-R-A-M-A. And FYI - I am in the early stages for planning a week long return trip to Hermano Pedro. Anyone want to go? Email me if you are interested.

Scrub A Dub Dub, Ella Is In The Tub

2008-11-18T18:32:00.000-08:00

f You're Happy And You Know It Clap Your Hands!

I can't believe I figured out how to upload a video! First scroll down and pause/stop the music that is on the right and then watch this video - it is the cutest thing I have ever seen! (But I might be biased, do you think?)

Animal Parts

2008-11-18T09:05:00.000-08:00

My family went to Tennessee this weekend. We had a great time. There were four children with us and they all behaved wonderfully. Ella kept us all in stitches. We were talking about Elephant Ears - you know, the ones that people fry and put powdered sugar on? Not actual elephant ears, but the fried, fattening state fair type treat. Anyway, my Mom said, "I like elephant ears." Ella followed up with, "I like giraffe butts." I almost peed on myself I was laughing so hard. She cracks me up!

FFF - Kisses!

2008-11-14T07:15:00.000-08:00

We are all about some hugs and kisses in our family! I love this week's theme.

A little bit off the topic, but I have a Praise Report to share! You regulars know that I am a total scaredy cat. I am scared of flying, public speaking, etc. And I don't mean just a smidge scared, but scared to the point of me always ALMOST missing life-changing opportunities. I ALMOST didn't travel to Guatemala to get Ella in 2006 because of the plane ride. But I prayed and He delivered me. Then I ALMOST didn't travel back in September to work at Hermano Pedro. But I prayed and He delivered me. Well, I had an opportunity to go on Frankfort's AM talk radio and share about my adoption and my recent mission work. BIG opportunity to get the word out and encourage others to do SOMETHING to help the beautiful people of Guatemala. I ALMOST didn't because I was too scared to talk on the radio. But I prayed and He delivered me. He is so faithful. He will never lead you down a path without holding your hand the entire time. Guys, I encourage you to ALWAYS JUMP because He will ALWAYS CATCH YOU. ALWAYS.

Favorite Foto Friday - Hey, You!

2008-11-06T14:08:00.000-08:00

Hey, You. Yes, YOU! You thought you were going to see a picture of my family, didn't you? Well, I am taking this time to share the news about another friend's new, fabulous, terrific, great idea to help others through 100 Gifts of Hope.

Holly Clark is a fellow adoptive momma - and she is a fabuous humanitarian. Most of you have probably already heard of her. She and her husband have started a new project in the spirit of Thanksgiving. The goal is to get 100 people to donate $100. I am B-R-O-K-E, but I am giving $25 from my next four paychecks. Can you maybe do the same?

See her email below... And check out her beautiful family!

Dear Friends and Family,

In the "Spirit of Thanksgiving", please join us by visiting http://100giftsofhope.org/. We just launched this website today to spread the word about three worthwhile charities that need help. Please consider passing this along to any friends and family that might be interested. By 100 of us joining together, we can easily fulfill these unmet needs by...

*Furthering childrens education in Guatemala.

*Healing two needy children in China.

*Giving the gift of a home to a teacher in Guatemala.

When you visit http://100giftsofhope.org/, you can read more information explaining why we are so passionate about these deserving charities. We appreciate your support so much!

Holly and Brad Clark

http://100giftsofhope.org/

My Favorite Quote from our new President

2008-11-05T19:06:00.000-08:00

"You know, there's a lot of talk in this country about the federal deficit. But I think we should talk more about our empathy deficit - the ability to put ourselves in someone else's shoes; to see the world through the eyes of those who are different from us - the child who's hungry, the steelworker who's been laid-off, the family who lost the entire life they built together when the storm came to town. When you think like this - when you choose to broaden your ambit of concern and empathize with the plight of others, whether they are close friends or distant strangers - it becomes harder not to act; harder not to help."

BARACK OBAMA, speech, Aug. 11, 2006

Favorite Foto Friday - Favorite Picture of the Week

2008-10-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

We went to Mia's birthday party last weekend. We had a very good time with our friends. I love my guatemama friends and I love their children. Love Fest - I feel blessed to call them all friends.

Sophie, Mia, Gabriella, Ella and Claire

Holly and her beautiful daughtersElla and MiaClaire
My cupcake eating a cupcake

Sophie Bug

Mia's sisters - Caroline and Sarah

Gabriella and Claire

Ella and the cupcake tree

A BIG SHOUT OUT TO MY SPECIAL GUATEMAMA - I MISS YOU, GRET!!! The Lord made us sisters through Him and I will be forever thankful. Praying for you!

Favorite Foto Friday - My Little Pumpkin

2008-10-23T18:01:00.000-07:00

Since I have already posted this year's pumpkin pictures I am going to do a little THEN and NOW theme. I was shocked to see last year's pictures. Ella is getting to be such a GIRL. Not a baby, not a toddler, but a little girl now. (Robyn ~ What happened to our babies?)

THEN

NOW

I am so sad that my baby is growing up ~ well, and happy at the same time. Watching her change and grow is amazing. As a baby she was so sweet and pleasing. She was cuddly and happy. Now she is very independent. And her moods ~ Wow! Adolescence terrifies me if this is her at three years old. But at night... she turns right back into a cuddly little baby again. She has to be held while we read our books. Then we turn the lights off, turn the music on and cuddle. I have to tell her a story (usually Dora and the Three Bears). Then she wants her back scratched. Next she puts her arms around my neck. So sweet! When it is time to seriously get to sleep she rolls over on her left side and drifts off... I can't wait to see the young girl she is going to grow to be!

Oh - and do me a favor! Click on Follow This Blog. It is on the top left. It is a new application that I love and is an easy way to update my blogroll. I am going to delete that older one and this way I won't have to add each one of you separately - it does it for me!

My Family is Weird ~ Does That Mean I Am?

2008-10-22T21:38:00.000-07:00

EDITED - And the Winner is Kelly - Skylie's Momma! This woman is hysterical. Go check her out! See caption below...

I LOVED Sarah's post where she CHALLENGED everyone to select a caption to go with a goofy picture of Sophie Bug. I now challenge you to leave the best caption for this picture of Myles. Isn't it hilarious?

I'm just going to hold my breath and pretend like it didn't happen!

I have been looking through some photos. You know what? My family ~ husband and kids ~ they're all freaks. Check these out...

Ella being silly as usual
My husband licking my face like a dog. Ella doing the monkey dance!
Like a true southern belle - picking corn out of her teeth with her finger Seriously, can any of us take a normal picture?

Myles being weird

Ella doing the I Dream of Jeanie move Ella and Dave being weird

Oh, goodness. I have no idea what to say about this one! Well, let me introduce you to my mom... Who is casting a spell on YOU!And my dad... On skates...I make sure no one takes a bad picture of me...

Amber Had A...

2008-10-22T12:16:00.000-07:00

GIRL!

Three boys finally have a SISTER!!!

And two wonderful parents have a daughter!

Thank you, Jesus!

Louisville Boo

2008-10-20T12:56:00.001-07:00

If you have been to Sarah's blog you have already seen these pictures. We went to the the Louisville Zoo (Boo at the Zoo) on Friday night. It was so nice to see Sarah, Grant (who cracks me up) and Sophie. The kids had a good time and so did their mommies. Sarah did the walk in heels! I had on old tennis shoes that I found in my car. It was fun to hear a little bit about Guatoberfest, which we unfortunately missed. I am going to definitely go next year.

I did not have my camera - thank goodness Sarah was able to get some shots of the girls. Aren't they adorable? They both held on tight to their candy bags.
It was hard to try to get them to pose near anything - some of the characters freaked them out. They weren't so scared of the wooden ones!
Sweet ride! If anyone ever wants to pull me around the zoo in a wagon just let me know. I'd be up for it!
It was so nice to get some mommy time with Sarah. She is such a sweet person. Everything about her is quiet and gentle. She is the exact opposite of me!
I was so exhausted - I barely made it home before falling asleep. Ella, however, stayed up with her Daddy and partied a few more hours. I wish I had her energy!

And BTW - several of you have asked about my friend Amber who is WAY overdue "with child" - I will post a picture (maybe I had better ask her first?!) or let you know as soon as the bundle of joy arrives! At first I was sure it was a girl, now I'm thinking it might be a boy. I guess we will find out in DUE time... Thanks for the prayers - she needs them!

Prayer Requests for Alex & Lionel

2008-10-18T01:10:00.000-07:00

While at Hermano Pedro we met two little boys who have been in our prayers and on our minds since we have returned home. Lionel is nine years old and weighs 28 pounds. If I am remembering correctly he weighed 17 pounds when he first came to HP. While we were there he began to have seizures and the nurses told Dick that they didn't know if he would make it. He is doing better. Please continue to pray for him. Pray that Dick is able to strengthen ties with the community that Alex came from so that he may gain the trust that he needs from the locals in order to help other children that live there.

Lionel was and still is in the malnutrition ward. Alex is not. Alex is a little boy who we all held. We all tried to feed him. Some of us spending an hour or more trying to get him to take his bottle. He has a fear of his bottle because the nipple has been cut and the hole is so large that the formula flows so fast it chokes him. This is due to time restraints that the workers have. They have so many to feed. If you are thinking about traveling to Guatemala to help I ask you to pray about going to Hermano Pedro - the more volunteers the more help the workers have. The more volunteers the more children that get to be out of their cribs and get to feel the warmth of being held and loved. I know that the people that I traveled with are all praying for Alex. Erin, Greta Jo, Paula, Angela, Jonathan, Daniel and Hayley - it is impossible to forget his face. It is impossible to forget the feeling of holding him in your arms. One of us is going back in January. She has a very special place in her heart for Alex. I pray she gets an opportunity while she is there to love him one more time. He has now been placed on a feeding tube. In Dick's last journal update he said he doesn't know if he should pray for healing, or if he should pray for the Lord to bring him home. Mary Margaret is a very special person who lives in Antigua and volunteers at HP with Dick. She is one of Alex's biggest advocates. She is living out loud for the Lord. I am at a loss for words - I can't find any that will describe her and do her justice at the same time. You can visit her blog as well as Dick's from mine. Their links are both on the top, right hand side - please take the time to visit them. You will not be the same after reading their words. Also take the time to pray for Lionel and Alex. What to pray for - I don't know... Pray for His will and His mercy.

Favorite Foto Friday - Friends

2008-10-17T06:15:00.001-07:00

Whoa - get ready to look at some pictures! This is one area in my life where my cup runeth over for sure. I have always been so blessed with a number of friends - all of them are very dear to me and I can't imagine getting through life without them.

We all knew that adoption would bring bring the joys of being a mother, but what we didn't realize is that adoption also brings the joys of new friends! I love you guys - my extra bonuses! If my agency had known that I would gain so many friends through adoption they would have charged me for you guys!!

I have never been a person who has been blessed with money. I wouldn't know what to do with it if I had it anyway. However, I have always been blessed with so many wonderful friends. The Lord knew I wouuld need you guys to help me get through life. To my lifelong friends that have been here with me since the beginning - I love you and would not know what to do without you.

As John Lennon said - I get by with a little help from my friends.

These first two are from high school! Check out me and Angela - and the thin one - that's Amber, who is currently seven days over her due date!

Myles and his cousin JonathanMe and Jayme
Roberto
Gabriella and Ella
Kathi, Tina and me
Me and Ella, Meldoy and Cooper, Amber and Flynn
Ella and Greta Jo

Ella and cousin Hannah
Ella and Carson
Morgan and Ella
Me and Leigh Anne
Ella and Claire

Dave and Myles
Ella and Katie
Ella, Laura and Jonathan

O'Mara and Emmy

Elijah, Noah and Myles
Erin and Ella
Papa Tom
Jonathan, Greta Jo and me at Anita's house
Ella and Cooper

Myles and Elijah
Myles, Elijah and Noah
Me and Stephanie
The original crew - Stephanie, Amber, Melody and meMe and Angela

Me and Leigh Anne
Melody and Cooper
Stephanie and Elijah
Steph, Elijah and Austin
Jayme and Ella - with Molly still in her belly!

William and Ella
Beth - AKA The Girl Who Sleeps on Our Couch

Morgan and Ella Stephanie and Jack
Deven with Emmy and O'Mara

Angela and Daniel
Beth and Emilia
Isaac
Angela and Ella
Hannah and Rocket

Angela C. and Baby A
My partner in crime - me and Missy
The Wild One - Pam
Kim and Leeland
Ella and Missy

Claire - Anita's daughter
Anita
Cousin Kaydence and Ella
Cory and Myles

Gabriella and Ella
William and Ella
Amber, Ella, Flynn, Hannah and Daniel
Me, Dave, Ella Cory, Hannah, Daniel, William and Jayme
Sarah and Sophie

Me, Ella, Myles, Sarah, Sophie and Friends The Wheelers
Beth
Ella's best friend - her Daddy

Happy Jack's

2008-10-09T19:03:00.001-07:00

My favorite thing about Fall is our visit to the Pumpkin Patch. This year we went to Happy Jack's in Frankfort. Here is a picture of my cousin Laura and her son Jonathan.Here is Miss Ella as cute as usual.
My beautiful niece Hannah.
Momma and her girl!
Here is the ostrich that almost ate Momma's girl. My aunt Dana told me to roll up the window, but I didn't. I definitely will next time. If it weren't for Jonathan's quick thinking and rolling up the window as well as Dana's quick foot on the gas pedal I would have had to watch this bird eat Ella.
My nephew Danial, Hannah, Ella and Flynn - who is expecting a new brother or sister any minute now!

My sister Angela is trying to be cute. Amber was a champ coming out that day.

Please keep Amber in your prayers. She is "tired of being with child" and is ready for a smooth delivery. Pray that the family adjusts well - and for goodness sakes pray for a girl. If she has a boy it will be boy #4!! And my bet is that this is the last time she will do this!
Our friend Harrison eating a candy apple. He and I were the only ones that liked them. I wish I had one now...
Ella's Ladybug - giving the air a kiss.

An Afternoon In Bed

2008-10-07T18:28:00.000-07:00

After coming back from Antigua I was exhausted. I also missed Ella. I needed some lazy time with my favorite girl. We spent an entire afternoon in bed. We started by reading a new favorite book ~ Railroad Toad.

Momma! Quit taking my picture!I am going to get over my own vanity and post these next few pictures of me and Ella playing around with our camera. Neither one of us had even showered, so please ignore me. She looks adorable no matter how dirty she is.I love this one. I don't know why - I just think the look on her face is so cute. I love that cheesy grin and messy hair matched with closed eyes. And a pale, dirty Momma with tired eyes tops off this winning shot!And her chubby cheeks are very kissable.Next we moved on to taking pictures of our legs. She is three, and I am thirty-two. She is SHORT. But notice how my legs aren't that much longer! Hers are definitely darker and prettier. This is another one I love. I am standing above her with the camera while she is reaching out for a hug. The next day we actually did sleep. My friends got her an FP3 player for her birthday - it is like an MP3 player, but for toddlers. Everyone in my family LOVES music. She does, too.
My friend Jayme recently moved - not to a different town (thank goodness!) just to a new house. Her son William hung out with us one night. Look at these two! They are such good friends. I know I write about this all the time, but it is such a cool bond these two share. Jayme and I were "expecting" together. William was born on the day Ella arrived home to the US. They have spent lots of time together since and I am sure they will be life long friends - just like their mommies are!
Seriously, does it get any cuter than this?

Favorite Foto Friday - Summer Memories

2008-10-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Pictures from Hermano Pedro

2008-09-27T22:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Dick Rutgers latest journal entry - and we're in them!! Perla (Perlita) is the angel I am looking at in this picture. (She's in the blue shirt.) I would LOVE to bring her home! I definitely left a piece of my heart with her. I do plan on going back and holding her again...

Greta Jo and Erin feeding and playing with the kids - I love these women and am so thankful the Lord brought us together to do His work.Jonathan is a gem. One day he stood in the rain for hours juggling for all of the children in their wheelchairs. He amazes me - his heart is gold.Paula fell in love with Gloria. It was very hard for her to leave. Gloria was not feeling well - please add her to your prayer list. Paula is another woman who makes the world a nicer place just by being in it. We all tried our hardest to serve Him and these children as best we could. I hope I have another chance to travel back with this same group. Gret's cousin Daniel is the most mature sixteen year old I know. When I was his age I was more focused on myself. He was focused on the children. This was Angela's (my twin) first trip to Guatemala. She went for Ella. She was right in her element. Hayley, Paula's daughter, pushed me through the airports in my wheelchair I was trying to get down to Dick for free. Because of her we did not have to pay to get it shipped!

The Guatemamas on our trip. Paula, me and Greta Jo. We did this for our kids.

Well, apparently my blog is on the blitz. Nikki - are you out there?? I need your help! All of my picture links are lost and my layout is all messed up. Sounds like a job for Nikki for sure!

Antigua, Guatemala

2008-09-22T18:56:00.000-07:00

Erin has posted a couple of pictures. Here are a few more from me... I will definitely post details and more pics when I get home.

We Are Here!

2008-09-20T17:14:00.000-07:00

Erin, Angela, Paula, Hayley and I are here. (Mom, this counts as my phone call.) Greta Jo and crew should be in later this evening.

Love you guys and talk to you soon!

A Most Excellent Weekend

2008-09-15T17:33:00.001-07:00

Leaving for Guatemala in four days. Very nervous. Will let pictures speak for me.

Favorite Foto Friday - Siblings

2008-09-11T22:15:00.001-07:00

From the day that we went from being a family of three to a family of four these two have been totally happy and excited to be brother and sister. Myles adores Ella and Ella idolizes Myles. I have a brother and a sister, so I know the bond that siblings can share and know the blessing that they can be. Most of you know that I am leaving next week for Guatemala. My sister is going with me, thank God. I can't wait to share this experience with her. And I do feel better leaving Ella knowing that she'll have her big brother Myles there to take care of her. And MY big brother Danny is going to help take care of her, too. She is spending the first two days that I will be gone with her beloved Uncle Danny and Aunt Ellie. Aren't brothers and sisters fabulous?

Wacky Wednesday - On Tuesday

2008-09-09T18:05:00.000-07:00

I have decided to take Myles and Ella with me to Guatemala. Do you think I'll get them through security?? Ha, ha! Just joking, um, I mean - just being Wacky on this Tuesday Night. As you can probably tell this picture was taken a couple of years ago. I don't think they would both fit in my suitcase now or I might actually try taking them with me!

The Ties That Bind

True Friends Strengthen and Help Each Other

We Love Good Love

June 2011 - One Year Later

June's Jumping Bean

Happy Derby Weekend

One Crazy Life!

WE are The TRUTH

Adoption Update=Listening to Him

I'm Pregnant

Latin Family Connection - Three King's Day Celebration

Florida 2009

Bah Humbug!

Ella Comes Clean

Interview with Ella

Tis the Season to be Jolly

What Every Child Needs

I Want to Stand Next to My Daddy

Wordle.net

Permission to Cry

Easier Said Than Done

Making the Readers Work - Your Homework Assignment

Favorite Foto Friday - Giving Thanks!

Favorite Foto Friday - Black and White

Favorite Foto Friday - Adventure!

An Interview with Ella

Boyd's Apple Orchard

Favorite Foto Friday - Orange

My Tiny Tumbler

Way Back Wednesday

*Marlene's Stats*

Silent Auction Update ~ How to be a Trickster!

Guatemala Food Project Silent Auction - Kick-Ass Bows Gift Certificate

Hidden Hunger in Guatemala

Nikki ~ Blogs for a Cause

What Happens When Papa Babysits

Jesus, Heavenly Watermelons & Skin Color

Favorite Foto Friday

Our First Four Years

Taking a Walk Down Memory Lane

I'm Going Hungry

Favorite Foto Friday + Birthday Cupcakes with Icing!

Catching up with Friends

First Days of School

Kick-Ass Cousins

Guatemala 2009, Part One

La Princesa = Mommy Love

Totally Terrific Tuesday!!

Temper Tantrum 101 AKA "My Tiny Terror"

Favorite Foto Friday Hide-N-Seek!

Guat Tot Birthday Party!

Blessings and Responsibility

Going Back to Guatemala!

Favorite Foto Friday

Favorite Foto Friday

Favorite Foto Friday - Bloopers!

Favorite Foto Friday - Mommy Day!!!!

Etiquette? Screw That!

My Favorite People in the World

Favorite Foto Friday

Wordless Wednesday

Favorite Foto Friday - Summer Haircut!

My Favorite Foto Friday

Favorite Foto Friday

We Have the Same Eyes

How to do the Splits

Favorite Foto Friday - Then & Now

Favorite Foto Friday - February Favorite

Guatemalan Princess

Sleeping Beauty

Forever Family Day #3

Three King's Day

Back from Florida

Snow Day!

Christmas Elves

Ella Can Read! Yummy & Yucky

Christmas Tea at Shakertown

Watch Out, Michael Jordan!

Cute Random Pictures - Feeling all Gooey About My Daughter!

FFF - Boo Hoo

Marlene's Stats