Monday, November 27, 2006

ANGEL TOP TRADITION!


We decorated for Christmas this weekend, inside & out! What fun (although my husband may despute that!) we had covering the outside with bows, lights and Christmas signs!
We put up the tree and I just love looking at the ornaments and remembering....when we got them, who gave them to us ~ I just love this time of year!! I just hope, hope, hope that Mia will be with us by next Christmas...it doesn't look likely at this point, but you never know!

The photos below are our annual "let's put the angel on top of the tree" marathon (it starts with Anthony placing it atop the tree and then, of course, Eddie has to do his part...fixing her skirt!). It is getting harder and harder for Ed to hoist Anthony up that high, while he fidgets and tries to get the angel to stay put...but it's fun and sweet and a real nice tradition, I think!











































*Just look at the happiness on their faces ~ priceless! I wonder what part Mia will have in this tradition...maybe blowing the angel a kiss ~ what a nice picture that will be...

Saturday, November 25, 2006

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

KEEP-SAKE BOOK FOR MIA


I just received this very special book in the mail from my adoption agency (GWCA):
"SELECTED CHINA STORIES OF ELDER-RESPECTING".
The proceeds go to charity (China Center of Adoption Affairs) and will "ensure that the lives of those left behind in the orphanages will be impacted".
This book has 41 stories (both in English & Chinese!) about respecting elders and relatives; which has been a very important aspect of the Chinese culture for thousands of years.
I am so glad that Mia will have this piece of her heritage. I have been daydreaming about reading these stories to Mia and the questions she will have about her ancestors. I hope I give the correct answers and that I am able to pass on these traditions from her homeland adequately...

Monday, November 20, 2006

CHARACTER EDUCATION AWARD ~ GOES TO ANTHONY!


What a boy! Anthony received a certificate at his school for being respectful to his classmates. He was so proud, rightfully so! He was called up during lunch to receive this award while his classmates applauded. Way to go Ant!

Sunday, November 19, 2006

PENNY-GIRL































These pictures of our Penny deserve their own post. She is just the best dog ever; she is almost human! She is emotional, dramatic, funny, playful, loving and oh, so patient with the boys (especially the little guy). She loves pretzels and she thinks if her back legs are on the floor - it's o.k. to "lay" on the sofa next to us. When I read a book to the boys...she's right up there with us, looking at the pictures. We have caught her watching TV and when she's frustrated she will "throw" herself on the wood floor and moan like Chewbacca (from Star Wars)! What a character we have ~ she is the best...we love you Penny-girl


Caught in the act!!!












Wednesday, November 15, 2006

THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Wow, once again I find myself saying "thank you". We have been so blessed with wonderful family and friends, who have been extremely supportive and involved in our adoption. They continually shower Mia with thoughtful gifts!

What a special and beautiful dress ~
just love the rose headband!
Thank you Trish & Hailey!














Thank you Mary, Frank & family for the meaningful plaque ~ we will treasure it!
Thank you Barb,Tom & family for the doorknob sign and gorgeous ornament ~ all fit for a princess!
Thank you, Deb & Glen for the beautiful tea set and gingham letters for Mia's wall ~ahhh, pink gingham!
Thank you, Mich for the ladybug bottle of wine (awesome find!) and for the jewerly/music box; which I cannot wait to see Mia use!












Thank you, Michelle for my red thread braclet ~ I will treasure it always (so glad I could finally upload this picture...from your blog...to "blog-thank you"!).










Sunday, November 12, 2006

LID CELEBRATION!



We finally got to celebrate our log in date with our wonderful family! We chowed down on Chinese food, tried eating with chop sticks (way to go Anthony!), had a champagne toast; and even got presents for Mia! Wow! It was such a fun night and I am so very touched by everyones generosity, good wishes and enthusiasm! Mia will look back on these pictures someday and see how much she was wanted and loved...even before we knew her! We love you Mia!