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Friday, February 29, 2008

Footprints of a Family, our second adoption journey, Part 4

this series begins here




The initial process of this adoption was much easier. Because we adopted previously within 5 years, we only had to update our homestudy. This was a huge blessing...the homestudy process alone is very daunting, the update was much easier! We compiled another Dear Birthmother Letter which was very similar to our first one. We held to the same beliefs...Keep It Simple. A major difference this time was the use of the internet. We didn't even have a computer when Cassie was born and 3 years later we not only had a computer, we also created a webpage for our adoption search. Our webpage was essentially our Dear Birthmother Letter in a webpage format. We linked this to numerous adoption websites. Each website charged us a small fee and if I remember correctly, we linked to 3 or 4 sites.

We started this process in January of 1999. Cassie was 3 1/2 years old, she would turn 4 in May. She was in preschool and I was working 3 1/2 days a week. We had enough money saved up for the adoption process, we were ready to go. Let the ride begin!

By February/March our letters were complete and our website was created. Our agency was mailing out letters and our website was link to a few sites. We bypassed hiring an attorney. Our agency was able to perform all the necessary procedures so we could save on attorney fees. We were now in the "hurry up and wait" mode. Every day I checked our email, waiting for a response from a birthmother. Everyday I checked our voicemail waiting from a call from our agency.

On our website we had listed our email address as a contact. Prospective birthmothers would email us for the initial contact and I would respond with request for their phone number. After a phone conversation, if the match appeared to be promising, we would refer them to our agency. If they contacted the agency, then the process would begin.

Waiting....waiting.....never pray for patience, you just might be given the opportunity to practice it!!

Cassie's adoption was very quick....we were hoping to get that lucky again. At times I wished I could look into a crystal ball just to know how long it would take....that is all I wanted to know...how long did we have to wait...how long would we have to practice patience.

The initial email came in May. I promptly responded and followed up a phone call. This woman needed alot of financial support. Legally an adoptive couple can pay for any expenses related to the pregnancy. This can include medical fees, food, clothing, etc. We are not a wealthy family, we had our limits. She did not have insurance or a place to live. We could not afford this situation. We wished her well....it was very hard....the desire for a baby sometimes supercedes the reality of the situation. We had to always remember to think logically and not emotionally.

Waiting again.....practicing patience again.....

Our next email came from a woman who was staying with friends in Washington. She had always wanted "to live in the Bay Area" (in California) - this was our first red flag. We interpreted this as saying that she wanted to live with us or have us find her a place to live near us and of course we would pay all expenses. Then the second red flag appeared - "All I want from you after the baby is born is a plane ticket to South Africa." South Africa?? Why South Africa? "I have burned alot of bridges here and I don't know anyone in South Africa." I was speechless. We live in a fairly large country. What has she done is her lifetime? Again....we thanked her for her interest....wished her luck....and we walked away.

Waiting.....again.....

to be continued...

Friday Funny and The Winners!!!!


A man came home from work, sat in his favorite chair, turned on the TV, and said to his wife - "Quick bring me a beer before it starts!" She looked a little puzzled, but brought him a beer. When he finished it, he said - "Quick, bring me another beer, it's gonna start." This time she looked a little angry, but she brought him another beer. When it was gone he said - "Quick, get me another beer before it starts!" She blows her top - "That's it!! You bastard, you waltz in here, flop your ass down, don't even say hello to me and then expect me to run around like your slave getting you beer after beer. Don't you realize that I cook and clean and wash and iron all day long?"


The husband sighed and said....."Oh shit, it started!"



Now for the moment you all are waiting for!!!! I asked each member of my family to choose two numbers between 1 and 61 (the number of comments).....did you do the math?? 3 members of my family times 2 equals...yes you got it.....6 winners!!!!


And the winners are.......drum roll please......


Laurie from Three Dog Blog won a box of Thin Mints

Around The Funny Farm won a box of Samoas....she really wanted to win, and let me know a few times!!! You won....and your first post was chosen so you won fair and square, or should I say round because the cookies are round....so I digress....back to the winners...

Irene from Word Lover's Unite won a box of Thin Mints

Alix from DC Days won....you need to choose Alix...lemon or all abouts???

Lisa from Lisa's Chaos won a box of Thin Mints

Nikki from My Husband Calls Me Weird won a box of All Abouts


Congratulations everyone!!! Email me with your address and I will get your cookies in the mail to you (Angela, if you are reading this, please email me you address also so I can mail you your cookies!!)

blessedfamm at comcast dot net


Thanks to everyone who entered the contest......this was fun...and you are saving me from eating all these cookies...sometimes being a Girl Scout Leader is tough!!!!



It's Time For Another Giveaway

this is a sticky post....see below for Fun Monday and new posts.....


Important note from editor: If you have been referred here from RHSS, your comment will not be entered into the contest....the contest is for active Bloggers only!!!!

We have cookies, cookies, and more cookies in our house right now!!!! I need to give some away before I eat them all!! Now is your chance to get some delectable cookies of your very own. Everyone has their favorite Girl Scout cookie. All you have to do is leave me a comment telling me what your favorite cookie is.....you have all week to do this.....I will randomly select a few....yes, you read that correct....a FEW winners. These lucky FEW winners will have a box of their favorites shipped directly to their house!!! How easy is that? In case the photo is hard to read....you can choose from the following:

Thin Mints - an all around favorite....best enjoyed frozen
Tagalongs - if you like Reeses....you will love these
DoSiDo - peanut butter sandwich...no chocolate, but they are still good
Trefoil - the classic shortbread cookie
Samoa - sinful concoction of sugar cookie, coconut, caramel, and chocolate
Lemon Chalet - a new lemon sandwich cookie, very good, not too sweet, and not too tart
All Abouts - my favorite, a shortbread cookie with a chocolate coated bottom


Winners will be posted on Friday, February 29th....Leap Day....so leap on down to the comments and tell me your favs....

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

I am still here!!!





I love the colors in this picture!!!


I am still here, in case you were wondering...thanks for the kind emails asking me if I was OK.


My mom had her shoulder replaced on Monday and I spent the day at the hospital with my dad and younger brother. I worked Tuesday and Wednesday and spent the evenings at the hospital. My mom is doing great and should come home tomorrow. I am done with work for the week so I am planning on catching up with everyone in the next few days. I miss all my blogging friends!!!


I will announce the winners of my giveaway on Friday....stay tuned!! I am also working on the next installment of our 2nd adoption journey, hopefully it will post on Saturday.....


Hope all is well with everyone!!

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Fun Monday

Our wonderful hostess this week is Mariposa....thank you so much Mariposa for volunteering and giving us a wonderful assignment!! Her assignment is the following:


(1) Please share to us how the NAME of your BLOG was made? I can't wait to hear interesting funny stories!

(2) Please share to us (in words or photo, though a combination of both will be a bonus!) your favorite/ most common dish!


Well the first one is very easy....my blog name is RDH MOM. The RDH stands for Registered Dental Hygienist and the MOM stands for...well...Mom of course. These are my two jobs...one feeds my bank account and one feeds my heart and soul.


Now for the second one....this is very difficult for me because I love good food and depending on my mood, and the time of the month....my tastes differ. But...the following are some of my favorite types of food:


Mexican food

Italian food

Chinese food

All American food

anything Chocolate

all desserts

I love appetizers....yummy bite sized morsels..



So I guess that about narrows it down a bit!!!



Now head on over to Mariposa's to see what everyone else loves...and to see how they named their blog!

Saturday, February 23, 2008

Footprints of a Family, our second adoption journey, part 3

part one, part two


Saying that I actually slept on the couch that night is a euphenism. What I actually did was think, cry, pray....I was a tortured soul that night. I knew with all my heart and soul that our family was not complete. I loved my little girl immensely and I longed for another child to love, another life to mold. I felt intense anger towards my husband, the distance I felt from him was palpable. We may have been in the same house, but we were miles apart.


The next morning my husband woke and went to work. Not a word was shared between us, neither a look nor a touch. It was very painful. My heart was breaking. Was this worth it? Was an unknown child worth the health and happiness of our marriage, our known child, and our family? I lay in our bed that morning after Dave went to work and did some soul searching.


Soon our daughter woke up and my day began. I was still a Mom to this wonderful little angel. I looked in her eyes that morning and knew the answers to my questions.....No....it was not worth it. Our little angel deserved a happy home, she deserved to live with two parents who adored her and each other. She deserved a complete family where love and laughter abounded. That complete family would be only three people and I was okay with that.


Mid morning our phone rang. It was my husband. I was thrilled to hear his voice and excited to tell him about my revelation. He asked me to please listen to him first.


"I am sorry", he said. "Before I went to work this morning I went to give Cassie a kiss goodbye. I stared at her for a moment and I realized how selfish I was being. I was letting my fear stand in the way of our family. I hate the adoption process, but we don't have a choice. Cassie deserves to have a sibling. I am willing to go through the process again and have our family grow."


Tears streamed down my face as I replied to him.


"I am sorry too. I have been very preoccupied with my wants and longings and have not been overly sensitive to yours. I too looked at our daughter this morning, and my wish for her is to grow up in a happy home. I wish this more than I long for another child. I will be happy as a family of three, I will be content."


At this time we both are weepy. We conquered our impasse, we came to a compromise. We met in the middle by understanding each other's needs. Our marriage grew stronger that day.


We talked about the situation. It is funny how once we understood each other's viewpoint and stance, we changed our own. In that understanding we were able to come to a decision together that we both agreed on. Without any cajoling, prodding, angry words, or sad tears....we both decided to adopt another child. We decided to open our hearts to another angel to love. We decided to give our precious daughter a sibling. We were a united front moving in unison towards one goal....creating a family of four.


We called our adoption agency and the rollercoaster ride began.....little did we know what we were in for....


to be continued

Friday, February 22, 2008

Friday Funny

The other day my 8 year old son and I had the following conversation:


"Mommy, I am a Peanut Duck." hmm???


He is walking around the house flapping his arms pretending they are wings.


"That is nice honey." I always give positive affirmations even if I don't know what the hell he is talking about!!


"You know what though Mommy?" I am almost afraid to ask...


"No, what honey?"


"It sure is hard to flap your wings when your nuts get in the way."


This is when I turn away and my face gets red because I am trying not to guffaw in his face. Just to clarify, apparently a Peanut Duck holds peanuts in his hands/wings!!


Have a wonderful day!!!

Thursday, February 21, 2008

Thankful Thursday


I don't know who is hosting this week...maybe Julie?? But I definitely wanted to participate...so here is my dose of gratitude....


Today I am grateful for my girlfriends....from my very bestest- ever friend, to my newest girlfriends and my newest bloggy girlfriends. I feel so honored to call some wonderful woman friends....to laugh with, to cry with and everything in between. My relationships with my girlfriends are very important to me and I value our friendships. I am emotionally, mentally, and spiritually healthier because of my girlfriends.


Tonight my husband and I were talking about this subject. He thinks it is more important for woman to have these relationships than it is for men, especially as we "mature" because our husbands stop listening to us!!! I had to laugh..he may be partially right....but I don't care.....I love my girlfriends....you bring light into my life.


Hopefully there other Thankful Thursday posts out there...let me know so I can visit!!

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

I've Been Tagged!!!

I've been tagged by Kim over at Rainy Day Diamonds. If you have not visited Kim yet, I highly recommend it, especially if you have school age children. She is an incredible teacher...I wish we had more like her....her students are very lucky to have her. She also has some adorable dogs...if you like boxers go and peek at her cutie patooties!!!


So...here are the rules....


Do not replace, just keep on adding! Yes we hope it will be a long list! Cut and paste the entire list in your blog, links follow automatically.
*Tag others and see your Technorati Authority increase exponentially!*The benefits of Viral Linking (oh, my, is that what this is *(sorry, my two cents chiming in)??):* Edited: Oops, I forgot to take out Robin's words. : )1. One of the fastest ways to see your technorati authority explode!2. Increase your Google Page Rank fast3. Attract large volume of new traffic to your site4. Build your community5. Make new friends!
Linky Love Tag
The Strategist NotebookLink AddictionArdor of the HeartWhen Life Becomes a BookThe Malaysian LifeYogatta.comWhat goes under the sunRoshidan’s Cyber StationSasha saysArts of PhysicsAnd the legend livesMy View, My LifeA Simple LifeJuliana RWMom Knows EverythingBeth & Cory’s MomA Mind Forever Voyagingenjoying the rideJennifer’s thoughtsMom of 3 GirlsAmandaDon’t Make Me Get The Flying MonkeysExPat MomJust JessieWilson SixKristinNuttier Than YouShonnteSummer’s NookLaura Williams MusingsMelissa’s Idea GardenEve at Confessions of an Everyday HousewifeChristiS of the Blah Blah BlogStephanie at Stop the Ride!Diane at Soap, Blings & Girly ThingsAmanda at Amanda:Mama’s MusingsKristin at An Ordinary LifeMama Zen at The Zen of MotherhoodAtomik KittenThe Sassy SouthernerA Room of Mama’s OwnExploring AutumnImmoral Matriarch: CatechizerReal LifeBoogiemumLiving and loving every minute of itHuckdollThe Daily RhythmThe Rocky Mountain RetreatPeace is Every StepLife According to LizzyFollowing ForwardBoys Rule My LifeA Quest for RelevanceNot Trying for a BoyThe GaspardsOrryally’s journalMy Life with BoysThe Truest ThingThe Potter’s HandPermission to PeruseLive Laugh BlogPianomomsicleHeather’s Hot MessKevin and PaulaSmatterdayGuidance for VictorySports Momma
Pensieve (<--my personal favorite :) ) The Home Team WinsSisters of a Different OrderChased by ChildrenA Frog in My Soup
Alex, The Roaming SouthernerJeanie, Musings From Left FieldPeculiar, How Do We Get There From Here?Tracey, Just Another Mommy BlogKim, Rainy Day Diamonds
Meg, Megnificent, Just Megnificent
Sandy, Myanderings
Nan, Life is Like a Lunchbox
Alison, RDH Mom
Kim, Mother of a Toddler


Linky love all around!!! If you are reading this you have strict instructions to copy the above list and add your name to the bottom...go now and spread the linky love!!!!

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Footprints of a Family, our second adoption journey, part 2

part one

A compromise was impossible in this situation. We were at an impasse, another fork in the road, no middle ground.

My husband approached me one day with the brilliant idea of getting another dog. What a wonderful idea, he thinks. A wonderful distraction from the never ending pestering about another baby. Of course, his thought process is completely lost on me. I am eager for another life to love and nurture, albeit one of the four legged variety...it will do. And so, our Zack comes into our home. Our big black galoot...and my pestering is quieted temporarily.

Time passes, the novelty of our new four legged family member wanes a bit. My heart starts longing for a new two legged family member again. The cajoling begins again. The discussions, the tears, the longing, the pleas.

My husband approached me again with another wonderful idea. He would like to knock down the wall between our daughter's room and the nursery in order to make a larger room. His idea is to move us into the large room and move our daughter into our room. Sounds wonderful....but there is one problem....that would eliminate our nursery. Where would we put our next baby? Hmmm.....he can't fool me this time. I am getting smarter and wiser, more savvy to his ways.

"Sorry honey...that won't work....we need the nursery for our next baby. I am not giving up on this. Our daughter needs a sibling."

More talks, more tears, more heated debates, more frustrations for both of us.

During this time my mom was out of town and my dad was alone. I usually phoned him nightly to check up on him and to chat. One night I was unable to contact him. My anxiety heightened as the evening progressed. Finally I was convinced that something was wrong and I needed to run over to his house to check on him. I had a problem though. Cassie was asleep. Dave was not home. I couldn't leave the house. I phoned one of my brothers, explained to him my fears. He went over to Dad's house to check on him. Fortunately, he was fine. That night solidified my belief that Cassie needed a sibling. I did not want her to be alone. I wanted her to have a sibling she could call on for help and support. I did not want her to take of elderly parents by herself.

When Dave returned home that night, I explained all of this to him. He immediately went into his defensive mode, "shut down and don't talk about it". I was furious, more furious than I have ever been during this time.

I slept on the couch that night.

to be continued...

Sunday, February 17, 2008

Fun Monday

Our Hostess with the Mostess this week is Sayre. Her assignment is the following:


Every day as I go to work, I see things around me that make me laugh. Usually these are in the forms of signs. So take your camera with you as you go about your business and take a picture of the things that make you laugh along the way (but it doesn't necessarily HAVE to be a sign).



What a fun assignment!!! I am looking forward to everyone's post this week.....


Here are my signs from around town this week:


Don't you think a sidewalk would be safer than a street??

This made me laugh....the Senior Center making a requirement that you must be over 21 years old!!




I think this is a very confused place....Is it Brazilian or Italian?? Hmmm

Ok...so where does the free part come in?? Another Hmmmm...



The last 2 pictures were taken in San Francisco today, near Fisherman's Wharf...that may explain them!!



Have a wonderful Fun Monday..don't forget to check out everyone else's funny signs....the list is at Sayre's place!!

Saturday, February 16, 2008

Footprints of a Family, our second adoption journey


Our beautiful baby daughter was now a beautiful toddler. She was 3 years old and we loved her more every day. Being a parent was the most difficult job we had ever done, but the most rewarding. I loved being a Mom...I felt complete...this was my calling. I reveled in the daily monotony of parenthood. I loved the routines, the smiles, the hugs, the kisses, the smells, and the love. I was ready to expand our family. I was ready to give our daughter a sibling.

Unfortunately, my husband was not as ready as I was. He loved being a Dad. Cassie was definitely a Daddy's girl in every way. She melted his heart just by looking at him. A better father you could not find. He did it all - baths, diaper changes, vomit clean up, long walks hand in hand, hugs, tickles, kisses, wrestling - a definite hands on Daddy. Every day I watched him with our daughter, my love for him grew.

I approached him one day and told him I wanted another baby. I wanted to give our daughter a sibling. I wanted to expand our family, I wanted to share our love with another special angel. He said no, he wasn't ready. I asked him why, he couldn't say. He wouldn't give me a reason. I don't think he knew how to put his feelings into words. Looking back, I could have been more patient with him.....at the time I was anything but.

I pestered, I cajoled, I cried, I sulked. I am not proud of my behavior.....but I was on a mission. My heart and soul wanted another baby to hold, to love, to treasure, to teach. I was not going to give up.

We prided ourselves on our marriage. Our marriage was strong, solid, and was made even more so during our struggles with infertility and our previous adoption. We had excellant communication skills and we were master compromisers.

Compromise? How can you compromise in this situation? It is impossible.....either we adopt again, or we raise an only child. Those were our only options....wait a minute...what if a miracle happens and we become pregnant?

This was the question I posed to my husband - "What if I become pregnant miraculously? How would you feel about that?"

"I would be ecstatic," he replied.

It then dawned on me...he did want another child....he did not want to go through the adoption process again.

When you adopt a child you have very little control on the situation. Yes, we did have some control, but not much. The adoptive couple places themselves at the mercy, if you will, of the birthmother. The birthmothers choose them to parent their child, the birthmother carries and nurtures the child throughout a pregnancy, the birthmother gives birth and chooses to place her child in the arms of the adoptive couple. At any time during this process she could change her mind, which is her right. Plans can change in an instant. The highs are very high and the lows are extremely low. We knew this, we lived this.

He did not want to go through this again. Unfortunately, this was our only option. We were at an impasse. We both desired a second child, only one of us was ready for rollercoaster ride we knew we would have to take for our desire to become a reality. We could not compromise on this....we either did or we didn't.

Tears, angry words, nights on the couch, tears, hugs, loving our daughter....which way would we go?

to be continued....

Friday, February 15, 2008

Big Welcome Please...

....everyone....please welcome my cousin Sherryl into our blogging community......head on over and give her a huge bloggy welcome!!!

Friday Funny

A co-worker got a pen stuck inside our printer. He started to try and remove the pen, but I told him we don't have time for that now, just put a note on the printer telling folks not to use it and then report it to the Help Desk. So he grabbed a piece of paper and scrawled on it. I left before he finished the note. About 20 minutes later, one of my techs comes in laughing and says he was just in the lobby, saw a piece of paper on a printer and went to investigate. Below is what he found. Sometimes things don't always come out the way you want them to........






Have a wonderful weekend!!

Stay tuned.....the first installment of Three Become Four, our second adoption journey is coming this weekend!

Thursday, February 14, 2008

Thankful Thursday



Today I am thankful for a very special moment in my life. Eight years ago today I was very fortunate to witness a brave young woman give birth to a beautiful baby boy. She then placed him in my arms and said to me - "Say hello to your son". She gave me a tremendous gift and I will be eternally grateful to her.....Happy Birthday Michael...my sweet little boy, my special Valentine!

Happy Valentine's Day everyone....here is the list of all the other Thankful Thursday Participants....

Cousin Sherryl...you need a blog Cuz!!! you can post your's in my comment section!!

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Hosting Thankful Thursday

I am hosting Thankful Thursday this week. This is the wonderful brain child of Julie over at Another Chance Ranch. To play all you have to do is post something you are thankful for this week....it can be simple, it can be profound...whatever is in your heart.


If you would like to participate this week...please leave me a comment and will add you to the list tomorrow with a link to your site.

Monday, February 11, 2008

Life Lived, No Regrets

Trials and Tribulations of Life. These have been on my mind lately. I have gone through many in my life. I wouldn't change a thing. If I had the power to go back in time and change aspects of my life, I wouldn't change anything. Why? I have gone through some very painful moments. I have experienced the lowests of lows and the highest of highs...and I would do it all again. Why?


Growth comes through pain. Emotional growth, spiritual growth, and sometimes Physical growth. Every time I was at my lowest, I came out the other side a better person....I learned I could make it. I learned I could rely on myself, I learned how to love myself, I learned how to love God.


During my younger days I was very destructive to my body and my soul. I chose to self medicate myself in many different ways. I was on a self destructive path. I cringe inside when I think of those days....but, I wouldn't change them. I managed to come out the other side...in cleaning up my body, I cleaned up my soul as well. I am able to empathise with people who are struggling, fighting the demons I fought. I found a relationship with myself that I never thought was possible. I learned how to love myself for who I am. I have a self confidence I never thought I would have.


Our struggle with infertility and our quest to adopt our children was a very difficult time in our marriage. There were times when our marriage was teetering on the edge. I am glad we had these struggles. Our marriage is solid now. Our struggles brought us closer. We share a bond that was made stronger through our struggles. My husband is my best friend. We can talk for hours and he still makes me laugh. Would we be this close if our road was straight? Did all the curves bring us closer? I don't know....what I do know is that we have never taken our children for granted. We wanted to be parents, we chose to become parents, we sought out our children and in that quest our marriage solidified.


I have a dear friend who is losing her battle with cancer right now. She is an amazing woman, a truly special soul. I feel honored to call her friend and have her in my life. She has taught me so much. Her strength and her positive outlook on life amazes me. She knows her battle is coming to an end and she is still living her life to the fullest, enjoying the company of her family and friends. She told me a few months ago - "I am making memories'". She is making beautiful memories for everyone around her. Watching her fade and knowing I am going to lose her soon is heartrenching. Would I go back in time and not choose her for a friend knowing this? Absolutely not....I have gained so much in this friendship. Yes it is painful now, yes my heart is breaking....but, yes...I have gained. I am able to look at life and learn to live it to the fullest. I have learned to make memories with my children. I have learned to love and be loved by my friends. I have learned how to be a friend. I have also learned that my friend has been given a gift. She knows her end is near and she is able to say what she wants to say, do what she wants to do, leave no stone unturned. This is a gift, we don't always get this.


Enjoy your life. Don't regret your past. Experience it. Live it. Learn from it. Grow emotionally and spiritually. Don't leave any stone unturned. Tell your family you love them daily.


Live your life with no regrets.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Fun Monday



Our wonderful hostess this week is Crown Princess....thank you oh so much for hosting!! Her assignment this week is the following:

Music plays a vital role in most of our lives. It is everywhere. I want to hear the ONE song that is you. The song that whenever it is heard, you smile. I am not looking for the soundtrack of your life, just that one song. Your friends hear it and think of you. You can post the video, the lyrics, the wav file. However you want to post it is great.



Before I share my songs with you I must let you know that I have been trying for the past 2 hours to include youtube videos in this post.....I can't do it....can someone please enlighten me as to what I am doing wrong??


So...back to Fun Monday....since I can't post the videos...I will link to them.


I thought and thought about this all week. I like all kinds of music and different songs touch me at different times in my life. The first song that came to my mind was Brick House by the Commodores. That was me in my younger years...a lifetime ago. My friends would play that song for me all the time and whenever I hear that song now I am reminded of my younger days.


I asked my husband what song reminded him of me and said You Make Me Feel Brand New by The Stylistics. That was the song we had our first dance to at our wedding. He chose the song and he sang it to me while we were dancing....it was beautiful. Every time I hear this song today I am reminded what a wonderfully romantic man I am married to!!


So then I asked my daughter what song reminded her of me. She told me When You Look Me In the Eyes by the Jonas Brothers. I had never heard so I listened to it and thought how sweet she was. She said whenever she hears this song, she thinks of me!!


So those are my songs....there are many more songs which touch me deeply but these songs will always hold a special place in my heart. Now head on over to the Crown Princess' place for more nostalgia.

Friday, February 8, 2008

I am Off.....


....I am taking my Girl Scout troop on an overnight Saturday and we will be home on Sunday. Remember this post? We are going there....maybe I will a story or a picture to share when we get back....Have a great weekend!!

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Friday Funny and An Award!!



Results of a recent research shows that there are 7 kinds of sex.

The 1st kind of sex is called: Smurf Sex.
* This kind of sex happens when you first meet someone, and you both have sex until you are blue in the face.

The 2nd kind of sex is called: Kitchen Sex.
* This is when you have been with your partner for a short time, and you
are so needy you will have sex anywhere, even in the kitchen.

The 3rd kind of sex is called: Bedroom Sex.
* This is when you have been with your partner for a long time. Your sex
has gotten routine, and you usually have sex only in your bedroom.

The 4th kind of sex is called: Hallway Sex
* This is when you have been with your partner for too long. When you
pass each other in the hallway you both say "screw you."

The 5th kind of sex is called: Religious Sex.
* Which means you get Nun in the morning, Nun in the afternoon and Nun at night. (Very Popular)

The 6th kind is called Courtroom Sex.
* This is when you cannot stand your wife any more. She takes you to court and screws you in front of everyone.

And; Last, but not least, The 7th kind of sex is called: Social Security Sex. * You get a little each month. But not enough to enjoy yourself.

Editor's Note: Of course this doesn't apply to everyone....there are always exceptions to the rules!!!


Now for the award!!

I was given this awesome award by Hootin' Anni!! If you have not had the pleasure of visiting Hootin' Anni...get you butt over there right now!! She is riot and and a Hoot!! You will not regret it, but you may never forgive yourself if you don't visit!!


Now I have the pleasure of passing it forward!!

I hearby bestow this award to these blogging friends:
Such Simple Pleasures - I finally get to give her an award!! Yea!!
Deb from Four Angels Momma
Irene from Word Lovers Unite
Manners and Moxie
Sandy from Myanderings
Alix from DC Days
Nekked Lizard Adventures
Cynthia Dahhling
Bermudabluez
Meg, Just Megnificent

Enjoy and thanks again Anni!!

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Thankful Thursday





Another Thankful Thursday compliments of Another Chance Ranch!




Today I am thankful that my children are feeling better and are back to school, which means I don't have to take any more days off. I only work part time and I don't get paid for time off....so unexpected days off really hurt on payday!!


I am also thankful for the fact that I can take my dogs for a walk and come home in a better frame of mind than before I walked. I am also thankful I recognize this and opt for the walk rather than stewing in my own garbage mind!


Most of all, I am thankful that our family is able to have conversations like this during dinner:


We were talking about what we were going to give up for Lent this year. The conversation was part serious and part humorous. My husband said - "I am going to give up yelling at Mommy for Lent." My son looked at him and said - "But Daddy, you never yell at Mommy." He is right and I am ever so grateful to live in a home filled with peace and love.


Head on over to Julie's place for more gratitude!

Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Awards...Awards!!!!

There is nothing like a bit of blogging love and bling bling to brighten up your day!! The following award was bestowed upon me by Such Simple Pleasures. Thank you Melissa, you are awesome. If you have not had the pleasure to visit her....go now....you won't be disappointed!!



Now for the fun part of passing it forward.....hmmm.....there are many blogs I visit daily and I am going to pass this one to just a few of them:

Laughing Always Helps

Word Lovers Unite

Four Angel Mommas

Lisa's Chaos

Myanderings

The Lurchers

Ordinary Art

Lyrics of My Life

Three Dog Blog



This award was given to me by Manners and Moxie....thanks so much...I am so honored!!!


I have given this award out not too long ago....so we will leave it at that!!!



Thanks again!!!!!

Monday, February 4, 2008

Future Fodder for Therapy


Last night my son was putting scotch tape on his nose. I have no idea why, I try not to analyse the workings of the male brain, especially a 7 yr old male brain. So, back to my story...for reasons known only to my son....he was putting scotch tape on his nose when his father walked into the room.

"Don't do that Michael, it will give you brain damage."
"Oh Daddy, my brain is already damaged."

Now I have never said his brain was damaged, all I ever say is that the testosterone in his body somehow affects the brain waves. Some of the synapses don't quite work right, at times.

Do you think he can call me on this when he is older? Do you think he will be telling his therapist this in about 20 years?

One of my goals as a parent is to make sure my kids have plenty of stories to tell their therapists one day. I believe this goal will be achieved, no problem!!

Sunday, February 3, 2008

Fun Monday







Our most excellant host this week is Tiggerlane, the Neophyte Blogger. Thank you so much for hosting....your assignment is a good one!!!


Our assignment this week is the following:


Have you heard of The Bucket List? Well, that's what I want from you! Make a list of things you want to do before you die. It must be at least five items - and you can make it as long as you desire. Photos are optional. And let's hear about some of the wackiest, most bizarre to-do's on your Bucket List!


So here is my Bucket List:

1. Have only one size clothing in my closet, preferably the smaller size!!

2. Take my children to England and Wales to meet their aunts, uncles, and cousins

3. Take my son to South Carolina to meet his birthfamily.

4. Go to Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons.

5. Visit Alaska and travel up the Inland Passage.

6. Get another tatoo.

7. Watch my children fall in love and get married.

8. Become a Grandmother.

9. Finish my To Do List of home repairs both inside and outside.

10. Purchase a vacation home, preferably on the beach.


Those are my goals, what I would like to achieve in my lifetime...

Now grab a cup of coffee and head on over to TiggerLane to read the other Bucket Lists!!!

Saturday, February 2, 2008

Our Adoption Journey, epilogue




This series has been wonderful to write. I had no idea I had this in me until I started writing it and the words just flowed right out of me. We brought Cassie home that day and our whirlwind Journey of Parenthood began. We have not stopped since. Six months later, on a blustery, stormy December morning we went to court and finalized her adoption. It was a joyful day, a day we legally became a family.


Cassie's adoption was a very easy, simple adoption. The emotions I wrote about were real, the rollercoaster was hard to ride, but the adoption process itself was very smooth and uneventful. Four years after Cassie's adoption we were to embark upon another adoption journey and we would soon find out how easy we had it with Cassie's. This next journey would test our limits of faith, trust, and emotional strength. I will write about it soon.


We did send A a long letter and many pictures when Cassie was six months old. She loved them and sent us a beautiful letter that she had written to us on the day Cassie was born. She also wrote one to Cassie. I kept these in a safe place, waiting the right moment to share them with Cassie. That moment came last year when out of Cassie's mouth I heard "If I am so special, how come A gave me away?" I knew this moment would come, but I was not prepared to feel the sharp pain in my heart. I felt for her and her preteen angst. My words of reassurance meant nothing to her. I gave her A's letter to read. Her words were my words but at that moment they were much more powerful to Cassie than mine were. Cassie read that letter, and understood the powerful love A felt for her, and the powerful love and trust A felt for us. It was a beautiful moment.


Throughout the years, the lines of communication remained open. I sent letters and pictures every 6 months. In each letter I reminded A that she was welcome for a visit anytime. She did visit when Cassie was 5 and our new son was 6 months old. Six months ago Cassie expressed the desire to meet with A again. She sent an email to A's mom requesting a visit. She was happy to comply. Unfortunately A was unable to meet us for lunch last October, she was pregnant and scheduled for a C-section the following day. We did meet Cassie's Birth Grandmother for lunch and had a wonderful visit. The following day A gave birth to another baby girl. I am happy to say she is parenting this angel and is very happy and settled in her life.


This weekend A came to our house for a wonderful visit. Cassie was able to meet her little sister for the first time. We had a great visit, felt like we had just seen her yesterday. Our bond is very strong. When they left, Cassie looked at me and said "Thank you Mommy". The tears flowed...how I love this little girl.


Open adoption is a beautiful process. It is a process filled with love, trust, joy, sadness, despair, euphoria, and every emotion in between. Open adoption binds two families together with a bond that can never be broken. Thirteen years ago A and her family were strangers to us. Now they are a part of us, a part of our family. I hold A in the highest regard. I have so much respect and love for her. She is an angel on earth. Through her, our dreams came true, we became a family.


This post has gotten long...this was not my intention. I will put pictures on the next post. Cassie through the years.....

Cassie Through the Years

Our Adoption Journey Epilogue can be found here

Our beautiful baby daughter growing into a beautiful young woman....


In this photo she is 3 months old.








She is 1 year old here....sorry for the poor picture!!



She is 2 years old here and the apple of her Dental Hygienist Mom's eye!!







Sweet baby face...she is 3 years old here and that black blob on her lap is Zack as a puppy!!
4 years old with Zack on the left and our beloved Koni on the right.




Five years old and ready for her birthday party!!






Six years old and just finished her first year as a Girl Scout!!










Seven years old and more candles!!




Eight years older and getting cuter by the day!!




Nine years old and changing fast!


Ten years old with Bessie, her favorite cat!!


Eleven years old...I love this picture. She looks so wholesome and healthy!!




Twelve years old and getting ready to take on the world!!



She will be 13 years old in May....where have the years gone....where are they going??


Thank you for following this Journey with me. All your lovely and heartfelt comments meant so much to me. This experience has been wonderfully calming and cleansing for me. My husband has enjoyed reading and reliving Our Journey as much as I have enjoyed writing and reliving it. I am now anxious to begin the telling of our second Adoption Journey...it was a completely different experience, yet similar in alot of ways.


Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart....your love, hugs, tears, and kind words have meant so much!

Friday, February 1, 2008

Scrolling Saturday



Another lazy weekend...perfect for Scrolling Saturday, the brainchild of Melissa and Coleen....a day not to think but to post a post from back yonder, back in time when my visitors were few! So here it is....another archive, from, oh about, 2 weeks ago!!


This post is about my daughter....the daughter we adopted in Our Journey I just finished writing.


Here is the post copied and pasted:

My Daughter's Flame - Dec. 9, 2007

I am not a shopper....I only go if I have to and I have to totally be "In the Mood" to go. Today I went shopping....for 5 hours!! And I had a wonderful time. I went with my daughter...the beautiful girl you see in the picture above...falling asleep doing homework.She is 12 years old, this beautiful daughter of mine. She is sweet, funny, positive, she has a beautiful soul....it shines. She is nothing like me at all!! Just Kidding!! I am not as nice as she is though! She sees only the good in people and would never intentionally hurt another human being, even when they are hurting her.

She is in 7th grade this year....the dreaded middle school years. I hate it. I hate the way the girls treat each other. I hate the way she gets her feelings hurt. I hate watching it, and I really hate that I can't do anything about it!! I feel so powerless. The only thing I can do is listen to her and love her. She is a wonderful kid and has so much to offer this world. One day her star is going to shine, and it will be so bright and lovely. Right now is it shining, but it is usually kept at bay, kept dim.

Today it shone, and how lovely it was!! A bright spark, a small vision of her potential, her future. We went into the crazy holiday shoppers, the crowds, the rudeness, the chaos. She saw only the good...the cute little girl learning how to walk, the beautiful pregnant woman eagerly anticipating her baby's birth, the wonderful holiday decorations, the scents of the seasons, the music, the joy, the peace. She saw all this today and helped me to see also. I saw the traffic jam, she pointed out the beautiful pregnant woman. I saw the huge checkout line, she laughed with toddler in the cute pink dress. I saw the mess on the floor, she was smelling the candles. She gave me a gift today and she wasn't even aware of it.

This is my daughter....the baby we prayed for, for years. The baby we adopted the day she was born. The sweet girl child who lit up our lives. She is becoming a woman, a woman I am proud to call my daughter. Her peers may try to dim her flame, she won't allow it. It is still burning and every day it gets brighter. She will become a wonderful woman one day and she will change the world....she has already changed mine.


Now, go visit the other Scrolling Saturday players..there are some gems out there!!

And The Winner Is....

What a wonderful week....full of Random Acts of Kindness...There is definitely more smiles in the world this week!!



How to choose??? There are so many wonderful ones...If you need a smile today, I suggest you read the comments on this post.



So...back to choosing....I had a hard time, so I thought to myself...

"Self, let's choose at random - Random Acts of Kindness - Random winner" - Makes sense.



So I enlisted the help of my darling daughter and we put all the Acts in a hat in order to make a random choice. But....on the way to hat...my darling daughter read each and every one. One of them pulled at her heart strings and then yanked them real good....and she said to me - "Mommy, we have to choose this one".



So....we did...and the winner of these gorgeous earrings is...



Drum roll...



Swampy!!! and here is her Random Act of Kindness:

Random act of kindness 'performed' by theHansMan. One of our friend's 13 year-old son has been diagnosed with testicular cancer. He's been undergoing chemo since October. It has spread to other parts of his body.Yesterday, theHansMan arranged for him to go to the airport while a Hornet was refueling. The Top Gun pilot let him sit in the cockpit and then did a great 'departure' for him.We then took him and his family for lunch.It was the first time he had been out in quite a while. The smile on his face was priceless. The tears in his mother's eyes broke my heart.


So..wipe your tears now!! Technically the HansMan performed this wonderful act....so Swampy, he actually gets the earrings and we want to see pictures of him wearing them!! OK...you may borrow them if you want!!


Email me your address and your earrings will be on the way!!


Thank you everyone for participating in the contest....you are wonderfully kind souls!!


I will be having another contest next month...stay tuned...the prizes will be something very yummy....(hint: I am a Girl Scout Leader!!)

A Contest!!!!

This is a sticky post, newer posts below
Last Chance, winner announced later today

It is time for another contest!! The prize this time is two lovely pairs of earrings. Now don't run away and hide men...these would make lovely Valentine's Day gifts for your sweetheart...or you can wear them yourself, if you so choose...I don't judge....I live in California, remember!!



Anyways...back to the contest and prize. These earring are handmade by a very dear friend of mine. She is very talented, in my humble opinion. Hopefully she will get set up on Etsy or ebay soon.....so just think....you can be the first to own a McCall original! You can be the envy of all your friends.
This fine pair is made with gold and venetian glass beads. It has a lovely amber colored heart with a drop amber colored bead. They are very lovely and dainty and give just a little bounce when they move. They are very romantic and feminine.
This lovely pair is a bit more on the funky side. It is silver with black and lime green beads, with just the touch of white. The beads are very chunky and sassy...more for your adventurous side.



So, how can you win these lovely earrings? As most of you know, I had a rough week last week. For whatever reason, it is not important, it is just the way it is sometimes. I do know that I can break these darker moments up by doing a random act of kindness....it will get me out of myself and my darkness and I will feel better immediately. It can be as simple as letting someone go before you in the grocery store when you cart is full and they only have a couple items. Have you ever seen someone's face light up when you do that? I can not stay crabby. I instantly feel lighter and happier.



So, this week, I challenge you to perform a random act of kindness....it can be to a family member or to a complete stranger. Post a comment here and let us know what you did. The contest starts today and will end on Friday, February 1st. At that time I will choose a winner.....



Have fun, and have a great week!!

Friday Funny





Three Little Pigs went out to dinner one night. The waiter came and took their drink order.

"I would like a Sprite," said the first little piggy.
"I would like a Coke," said the second little piggy.
"I want beer, lots and lots of beer," said the third little piggy.

The drinks were brought out and the waiter took their orders for dinner.

"I want a nice big steak," said the first piggy.
"I would like the salad plate," said the second piggy.
"I want beer, lots and lots of beer," said the third little piggy.


The meals were brought out and a while later the waiter approached the table and asked if the piggies would like any dessert.


"I want a banana split," said the first piggy.
"I want a cheesecake," said the second piggy.
"I want beer, lots and lots of beer," exclaimed the third little piggy.
"Pardon me for asking," said the waiter to the third little piggy,"But why have you only ordered beer all evening?"

The third piggy says - "Well, somebody has to go
'Wee, wee, wee,
all the way home!