The Crazy Eight

Love Them Home

2012-01-31T11:38:00.000-06:00

My very good friend Amie and her family are on a beautiful journey to bring home their 5th and 6th child from China...bringing their family count to 10 children in all!!!!! Amie and I paper chased together back in 2005 when we each brought home our first little girls from China. Since then Amie has gone on to do wonderful things to help the children of China.

Amie's family has a awesome fundraiser on their blog Love Them Home and recently I purchased a t-shirt "God is Love" for myself. When the t-shirt arrived Addison saw it laying on my bed and asked where I got my cool shirt. I explained about the fundraiser...Addison is such a sweet soul...she asked if she could have a shirt too and how could she help with the fundraiser. I think my little one is destined to do great things!!

Once Miss Addison's God is Love shirt arrived she could not wait to put it on..she has wore it to hip hop class, school and most recently to a party. I wanted to take a few portrait shots of Addison and when I returned from getting my camera...Miss A. was jumping and dancing on her sisters bed while Livi blasted tunes from Katy Perry..she sure was having fun!!!

I did manage a few portraits of Miss A. after her rock n' roll dance session was over...and I had to pay Livi $2.00 for use of her bed (Miss Livi is all business).

I hope you will take the time to stop by "Love Them Home" blog and take a moment to read their story...the design on the t-shirt is beautiful and there are other goodies on their site.

Snow Days and Catch Up

2012-01-20T17:53:00.000-06:00

I have no time for blogging these days. Life is busy busy busy!!! Here is a quick catch up on our crazy life!!

Chris and Kristen are busy planning for their Oct. 2012 wedding. I am going with Kristen in a few weeks to start looking for a wedding dress. Things are moving along and we are all very excited to have Kristen join our family (although we feel like she is already part of our family).

Justin and Ashley have settled in to married life. Both are busy working in the city. They have purchased their first home and are very excited planning out all the details. The builders should break ground hopefully in March/April once the ground is warm enough to start digging. They should be able to move in to their new home around August/Sept. It will be nice having them live 15 minutes from us and Ashley's parents.

Kenny and Amanda are enjoying life after college. Amanda is busy working on her modeling resume and landing a few acting rolls along the way. Kenny is interviewing with production companies. He just got a call back with a production company in the city to read for the lead roll in their up and coming play. Kenny also has an interview with Second City. We are very excited for both of them as they work towards living out their dreams.

Tyler is working hard at school and enjoying college life!!! Tyler is taking his second semester in "Italian". He is loving it and has caught on rather quickly. I understand Tyler's Professor has changed Tyler's name to Vincenzo. Tyler tries to come home when he can...Miss Addison gets to missing him and is very sad when he leaves to go back to school.

Livi is in 3rd grade and working very hard in school. She loves to spend time on the computer, working on art projects and she has become a master at Kinnect "Wipe Out". Wipe Out is one of Livi's favorite shows...she laughs so hard when she is watching that show...and begs me to go on it..I think not! (although it would probably humor my family).

Addison is in 1st grade and doing very well. Addison is our little dancer. She is currently enrolled in 4 dance classes...ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop. I spent many many hours freezing my butt off on the bleachers through out the boys sporting events..it's nice to be sitting in a warm dance studio for a change.

As for me...I'm busy being a Mommy and running my small business Chasing Dreams. I am very excited to be going to Vegas in February for WPPI with my friend Michelle. It will be a fun week of learning and hanging out with a good friend.

It appears that winter has finally hit! The girls were so excited to finally have snow to play in. Livi is in her glory when she is outside in the snow..she could stay in the snow for hours!!!!! Today we are getting slammed once again with a big storm..I'm sure the girls will help us dig out tomorrow.

Miss Livi is an expert in snowball making!!!!

And you are wondering what Miss Addison is doing with her tongue hanging out....catching snowflakes of course! Addison spends more time trying to catch snow flakes then any other kid I know...

Addison cracks me up with her hat pulled over her eyes..I don't know how she sees a thing.

The lumpster is in her glory in the snow!!!! What started out as a nice "let's build a snowman together" quickly turned ugly..as soon as Livi had a shot at Addison with a snowball..she took it!!

Hope everyone is enjoying the winter season!!!!!!! I'm trying to find the beauty in the snow and the cold...but I admit, it's not always easy to do...I think I would rather find the beauty on the beach some where.

From Our Home To Yours

2011-12-24T08:48:00.000-06:00

Wishing you and your family a Happy Holiday!!! May your day be filled with family, love and beautiful memories!!!!!!

Christmas Is In The Air

2011-12-13T18:52:00.000-06:00

I absolutely love the Christmas season. I love the craziness, the decorations and even the snow (although we are still waiting for the snow). My most favorite part of the holidays is family. I love that I have the honor of spending time with all of my children in one room and all at once. There is a ton of joking, laughing and love. For me, Christmas means family time.

Miss Addison loves her purple tree. She can't wait to drag it out and lite it up!!!!!! This year Addison added an angel to her tree to remind her of Grandma. I told Addison that Grandma was an angel in Heaven now and that she is watching over us. A few weeks ago Addison and I were out and about when the wind picked up. Addison stopped and said "did you feel that Mommy, that was Grandma's wings". I love her sweet little heart...

Miss Livi recently asked to have her room redone. She wanted to get rid of her beautiful mural. Of course I said yes, it's her room after all...but I admit, it broke my heart watching the painters paint over her gorgeous mural..in fact the painter said it made him sick to his stomach while painting over it. Livi wanted her room to be hot pink and black. It turned out cute and Livi is very happy with the room. We still have a few things to add after the holidays. Of course we needed a new Christmas tree to match her new room. Livi traded in her pink tree for a white tree filled with hot pink, black and crystal ornaments...and a little sparkle.

I love Christmas tree's and I squeeze them in to every corner I can. I have one in my dining room and one in the living room.

We added a small tree for Grandma this year to honor her memory. We decorated the tree in angels, birds and a very sparkly Eiffel Tower on top.

My favorite tree of all is the tree in our family room. I call it the tree of life because it pretty much is our life story. I started buying ornaments for my children from their first Christmas on...I also collect Christmas ornaments when we travel. I love decorating this tree because with each ornament comes a wonderful memory.

This year Chris and Kristen got a "She said yes" ornament to mark their engagement.

Ashley and Justin got a Bride and Groom ornament to mark their wedding this year.

Below is the ornament that I bought the year we got a referral for Livi. I remember buying that ornament and crying. I was so excited to have a referral and could not wait for her to be in our arms.

And then there is Addison's ornament. Addison and I arrived home from China on December 10th...just in time for Christmas. What a magical Christmas that was!!!

I am almost done with my Christmas shopping...most of the presents are wrapped and getting ready to bake with my girls!!!!!!
A couple of people have asked me where I purchased the girls aprons. The aprons are made by Jillie Willie and I purchased the ones in the below post at Neiman Marcus We have other ones that I have ordered direct from Jillie Willie and they are all adorable and made really well.

Love Them Home

2011-12-01T19:44:00.037-06:00

We met back in late 2004. I was instantly drawn to her kindness, wit and loving personality. She made me laugh on a daily basis. No one could tell a story better then she...We had so much in common..she loved chocolate, had 4 children and she was embarking on her first adoption from China like me. Who am I talking about you may ask??? My girl Amie!!!!! A lot has changed since then...Amie and her wonderful husband have gone on to adopt 3 more beautiful children and are on their way to bringing home 2 more children...Yep, that would be a total of 10 children!!!!!! I am so honored to say that I know this beautiful family with a huge heart. How can you help you may ask??? Simple...stop by Love Them Home and check out the wonderful fundraiser that has been set up to help bring Kai and Sophie Lu home.

This is one of my all time favorite Christmas songs!!!! Please turn off my Christmas music at the bottom of the page before viewing.

My Helping Hands

2011-11-23T21:00:00.001-06:00

The girls couldn't wait to get up and help me cook today. In fact Livi was so excited she woke up at 2:30 AM!!!! Thank goodness she went back to sleep.

They put their little aprons and chef hats on, grabbed their new pink and purple cooking utensils and they were ready to roll.

I admit that I love having them help me in the kitchen but on a day like today (when I have a ton of dishes to make) it makes things go a bit slow...and then there's the fighting and arguing over who is stirring faster or who got to put in the last cup of what ever. After a few hours of helping Mommy, Kenny took the girls in the basement to play some Sonic...and I had a nice glass of wine and continued on with the cooking.

We will have all of our kids home tomorrow for Thanksgiving and I am really looking forward to some family time. My dad bought a new smoker over the summer and he is going to smoke the turkey this year. This will be the first Thanksgiving without Mom and it is going to be hard...but I am so very thankful for the time that I had with my Mom. I know that she is watching over our family and smiling down on us...and as my little Addison says every time she feels a breeze "did you feel it Mommy, that was Grandma whizzing by us with her new wings...man she sure flies fast doesn't she Mommy". Oh how that child makes my heart smile..

Wishing you all a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving...full of love and family!!!!!!

Back to October

2011-11-20T18:25:00.001-06:00

OK, so I'm moving backwards here. What can I say...I'm trying to keep up the best I can. I seem to always be behind..oh well : )

A few weeks before Halloween my boys, along with Ashley and Kristen, stopped by the house for a visit. They had planned a trip to our local pumpkin patch and I asked if I could tag along. I love spending time with my older children and I don't get the opportunity very often. So off we went!!!!

Watching them pick out their pumpkins was quite amusing. Chris was serious!!! He rubbed the pumpkin.....examined it.....and made sure it was just right!!!!!

The girls headed out on their own...apparently, pumpkin pickin' is serious and one must be alone to pick!!! No distractions!!!!!

The Newlyweds had a discussion over their pumpkin choices. It was serious business...after all, if they wanted to carve the pumpkin it had to be perfect...and these two are a bit competitive over who's was the best!!!!

After a little discussion...well you get the picture.

Kristen is easy going..she just plopped her pumpkin into the wagon and away she went..who cares what anyone thinks, this was her pumpkin...and Miss Ashley let her playful side out...after booting a few kids out of the teepee (I mean nicely asking them to step aside) she did a little posing for Mom..did I mention my daughter-in-law is a goofball and fits right in at the Nuthouse!!!

After loading up their pumpkin's (Justin carried his pumpkin, fear the other pumpkin's may dent his) the kids were on their way....

But first my goofballs posed for one last picture....

I had more fun hanging out with my grown kids..they make me laugh and keep me young.

Tis' The Season

2011-11-12T20:35:00.000-06:00

Anyone that knows me....knows that I love Christmas!!!! It's magical!!! I am guilty of putting my tree's up early. I love when the house is decorated for Christmas..it just feels warm. This year I bought a small Christmas tree for my Mom right before she passed away. I wanted to enjoy Christmas with her..just one last time. I placed the tree in her room where she cold see it, lit the tree up, added a bit of sparkle (just what she loved) and played some soft Christmas music. I whispered in her ear.."Mommy, let's enjoy one more Christmas together." She never opened her eyes but I know she heard me..Now my Mom's tree graces the foyer of our house. It is decorated in honor of Mom....with a picture of her right on top of the tree.

Christmas cards are done and ready to print. This year I put Christmas PJ's on the girls and let them play (there was a lot of giggling)...with a little twist on the front of the card (you will have to wait to see it). The back of the card is a collage of the girls just being themselves and having fun!!!! Below is just one of the pictures I used. Nothing fancy, just fun!!

The Holidays will be hard this year with out Mom. I have never been away from my Mom on Christmas...never ever!!!! I promised Mom that I would take care of everyone...so it is my job to make sure that Christmas is magical for the family and I plan to do my best!!!!!! I am usually well into Christmas shopping by now but I can't seem to find that spark yet...I'll get there. I'm spending Black Friday with Kristen (Chris' fiance') this year. Kristen wanted to start shopping Thanksgiving at 11:00 PM and continue on...I didn't think I could make it LOL so we are starting off at around 5:00 AM Friday. Ashley plans on meeting us at some point, I think. When I mentioned 5:00 AM to Ashley her eyes got big and she said "I think I will meet you later" LOL

The rest of the wedding pictures from Justin and Ashley's wedding are now done. They came out really nice..you can view the pictures here Clary is so talented!!!!

I wanted to thank everyone for all the cards, emails, phone calls, flowers, dinners and messages over the past few weeks..we are grateful to each and every one of you..thank you again!!!

Preview of Justin and Ashley's Wedding

2011-11-11T15:06:00.002-06:00

Clary posted a preview of the pictures from Justin and Ashley's wedding and they are stunning!!! I knew they would be...Clary and her husband are awesome!!! They will be photographing Chris and Kristen's wedding next Oct.
Take a peek

Halloween with the little nuts!!!

2011-11-06T07:33:00.000-06:00

My silly little girls. I tell you, they both drove me nuts with costumes. At first Livi wanted to be Spiderman for Halloween...something told me that she was going to change her mind. I bought the Spiderman costume, she loves wearing it around the house and every once in a while scaring one of us with the mask on..but sure enough, she changed her mind. Both girls (and I confess me too) love playing Angry Birds on their ipads. Livi loves the Black Bird. Livi found the costume on her computer one day and that was it...she needed to be the Black Bird.

I think she made an adorable black Angry Bird..

Miss Addison changed her mind a few times too. She was fixated on being a cowgirl. I bought the boots and a cute brown petti skirt to wear...then of course she decided a black cat would be a much better idea. I found her adorable costume from Chasing Fireflies. Besides shedding feathers all over the house, Addison's costume was really cute!!!

Neither one of my girls make it very long trick-or-treating. I think they get a kick out of passing the candy out. Daddy takes both girls out at around 4:00 PM and by 5:00 PM they are done! Our village sets the time for trick-or-treating from 4-8PM. It took me a while to get used to a set time for trick-or-treating. Being from CA, we just went out when ever we wanted to and ended the evening when our pillow case was full!!!

Hope everyone had a fun Halloween!!!

If tears can build a stairway, and memories a lane. I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again.

2011-11-03T11:11:00.001-05:00

"Because you loved me, I will be with you forever!"
Author: Renee Moon

October 24th-My Dad tried to give my Mom a boost for dinner. Mom had stopped eating due to the Parkinson's but was still able to drink water and boost. Mom drank the boost and some water.

October 25th-My Dad started his day out like any other morning. He had a cup of coffee while Mom slept a bit. He went to give Mom a boost and she refused. Dad tried to give her some water with her morning pills, Mom refused. My dad then tried using a syringe with a little water to try and get Mom to take her pills...Mom started to choke. My Dad called Hospice right away. The nurse (Karen) told my Dad to not give Mom anything at this point and that she was on her way to our house. About noon my Dad came upstairs to our office where Ken and I were working, he was crying and said that we needed to come downstairs and speak with Karen. Karen informed us that Mom would not make it much longer and that we were down to hours. Karen felt it was best to call our boys home.
My Mom's breathing was in what Hospice informed us was the first stage. Mom sounded like she was gasping for air. There was no movement in her body at all and her eyes were half closed. Dad laid a bible next to her that he had given her when they were first married. I laid the rosary that I bought Mom from the Vatican on the bible...Mom clutched a statue of The Virgin Mary in her hand.
By late afternoon, all four boys had arrived and were sitting with their Grandmother. My Mom opened her eyes for a moment when she heard her four grandson's voices..this was the last time Mom's eyes opened.

October 26th-Mom made it through the night. She was never alone. My Dad held her all night long...rubbing her face and often crying. Telling her how special she is and how much he loved her. Mom's breathing changed to a rattle. Music continued to change softly in the background (my Mom loved music). My dad was upset that the day was so dreary...Mom hated the dark clouds. I ran out and bought a Christmas Tree for Mom's room. I wanted to share one more Christmas with my Mom...she loved the lights on the tree. I set up the small tree in her room so that she could see it. Mom's eyes remained 3/4 closed, but I knew in my heart she could see the tree. Dad, Ken and I spent the day with Mom...never leaving her side. We rubbed her check, told her how much she is loved and told stories. There was even some laughter through out the day.

October 27th-Mom made it through the night but her breathing had changed. Karen (the Hospice nurse) said that Mom would not make it but hours now. Her breathing was barely there and no food/water since Monday night. Tyler and Kenny spent the day in and out of Mom's room. Chris came over to sit with Mom. Mom's skin had now turned grey in color and her eyes hazed over. At one point Mom stopped breathing. Dad and I thought she had left us...she then seized and started breathing again. It was so scary to watch but I was grateful we were there to hold her hand through it. We continued loving Mom..we all told her it was OK to let go. Hospice was surprised that Mom was holding on and continued to ask us if there was something or someone that she could be waiting for. We kept saying no..we are a small family. Dad held Mom all night long...Christmas tree lit and music playing softly.

October 28th-Mom made it through the night. The Hospice nurse, Karen, is baffled. They cannot get a blood pressure reading on Mom. Her eye color is gone now....we feel as though she is suffering and we are now begging God to please take Mom out of her pain. Tyler has to return to school. I felt so sorry for him leaving his Grandmother and saying Good-bye. It's hard when a mother cannot protect her child's heart and take away the pain. Dad and I sit with Mom all day. My Dad naps next to Mom and continues to hold her hand, rub her shoulder and tell her how loved she is. I start to feel as though I can't take it much longer and pray to God for strength.

October 29th-Mom continues to barely breath. Her body weight is probably about 40lbs now. She lays lifeless and we are confused as to how she is holding on why all the suffering. A new hospice nurse comes by the house. The Hospice nurse walked in to Mom's room and started to cry. She said that Mom looked very comfortable and that Dad was doing a great job with the morphine. Dad shows the nurse the records he has been keeping on her medication. The nurse once again ask us...is there someone or something that she is hanging on to? We are baffled and say no..

October 30th-A new hospice nurse stops by the house. She cleaned mom up and said a prayer. She once again asked us if there was anything we could think of that would keep Mom here? We explained that we had called Mom's aunt in SC and sister in CA..held the phone up to Mom's ear and they both told Mom it was OK to let go. We were all the family Mom had..Chris came over and spent time with his Grandmother. Our dog Lucy was not allowed on my parents bed and never even tried. Today, Lucy laid with Mom and would not get down. Dad continued with his undying love and cuddled Mom all night long. Never leaving her side.

October 31st-We kept the girls home from school, I knew I could not be at their festivities. I needed to be with my Mom. We carved pumpkins and tried our best to make Halloween special for the girls. Watching Mom deteriorate was brutal and so cruel. My neighbors came by with lot's of hugs and prayers. I felt as though I was leaving in a really bad dream...I told Karen (hospice nurse) that it felt wrong that I was asking God to take my Mom...who prays to God to take their Mother away??? Karen told my Dad and I that he had only seen one other case like my Mom's..she was confused and had no answers as to why and how Mom was hanging on..Dad continues to hold Mom and love her. Our little dog Lucy, will not leave Mom's side.

November 1st-It was time to take the girls back to school. After dropping them off I ran to Target. I needed a break. Once in the store I felt this bolt of energy, can't explain it really..but I knew what was keeping Mom here..why she wouldn't let go. I left my cart in the aisle and went home. I told Ken I needed to talk to him right away, I had a revelation (He said "oh oh", always the smartass). Ken said that my Dad needed to shower and he was going to sit with Mom. Both Ken and I went in to Mom's room, pulled up two chairs and sat down. I grabbed Mom's hand. While holding Mom's hand I said to Mom "I get it!!! I know Mom!!! You have been hanging on because you needed me and Ken to see and witness the love between you and Dad". I then looked at Ken and said "You see, Mom knew that things were crazy here. She knew that with everyone here and Livi being hard that we have been bickering more...I promised Mom that I would take care of everyone but she knows I can't take care of everyone unless you and I are OK". I then looked at my husband and said "OMG I love you so so so so much!!!!!!" Ken hugged me with tears in his eyes and said "I love you too so very much"..all along holding Mom's hand...and with that..Mom took a very deep peaceful breath, like a sign of relief and she was gone. Ken and I looked at each other and started to cry...I said "she could not leave until she knew we were going to be OK".

I have told my husband thank God that he was with me or no one would believe this story..

Now we try to heal..thank you to all the prayer warriors out there!!! My family will be forever grateful to all of my FB friends who constantly posted, prayed and emailed me!! Your friendship means the world to me!!! From the bottom of my heart thank you for sticking with me through out our journey and for always being there!!! I love you and I promise I will write personal notes to each and every one of you.

The Wedding..

2011-10-20T11:13:00.002-05:00

I think we are still on a wedding high around here!!! The wedding weekend was full of fun, laughter and late nights...it took me about a week to recover!!! I loved having my family in town. Jeanine, Jesse and Mike were able to not only attend the wedding but spend time with my Mom. It broke my heart when they left for home (CA). Jeanine knew in her heart that it was truly good-bye and leaving her only sister was heart wrenching. I know that my Mom knew they were all here to visit her...I could see it in Moms eyes. I know that she felt their presence and love.
The wedding was late in the evening. The reception didn't start until 7:30 PM and we knew that Miss Liv would not make it through. We set her up for a fun day with friends...and boy did she have fun!!!!! I think they wore her out!!! We really missed having Livi with us but sometimes you have to do what you "need" to do and not what you really "want" to do. In this case..we did what was best for everyone. I don't think Livi felt like she missed much, she carried on and on about the fun she had with out us!!! It made me happy knowing she was having such a great time!!!

Now on to a few wedding pictures!!!
I didn't bring my camera in to the wedding reception or ceremony, I wanted to play the "Mommy" role...but there were many that did bring their camera's in and the pictures are slowly rolling in. Plus our photographer rocked!!!!!! I can't wait for her pictures!!!

Our dear sweet friends Steffie and David attended the wedding and sat with us at our table. Steffie was kind enough to bring her camera and snap a few pictures for me...in between stealing cannoli's from the head table (actually getting my Tyler to do her dirty work) and sipping on champagne. These beautiful photo's are courtesy of Miss Steffie B.

The ceremony was gorgeous!!! There were candles every where. The room was elegant and very romantic!!!

Addison was the most beautiful flower girl. She walked down the aisle beaming. We didn't know that Addison would be carrying a basket of petals until right before the ceremony. We were not sure if she was getting a bouquet or a basket. Once Addison saw the basket (about 15 minutes before show time) she was like "OK Mom, now what". One of Justin's very good friends and groomsmen from his high school football days (try to imagine the biggest lineman on the team) walked Addison through the steps of dropping her petals softly and being the perfect flower girl. It was rather humorous!! Especially when Jeremy declared to Addison "I always wanted to be a flower girl". I thought Addison was going to wet her pants laughing at Jeremy (Jeremy is about as tough as they come). As Addison walked down the aisle I could see the tears in her brothers eyes..they were so proud of their baby girl. We were relieved she didn't cartwheel down the aisle even though Justin's groomsmen were egging her on a bit!!!
During the ceremony a string quartet played and it was beautiful!!!! Ashley's Dad was so proud walking his baby girl down the aisle. Ashley was glowing!!! I don't know that I have ever seen her look more radiant and beautiful!!!!
The groomsmen, most of them I have known for many many years, were all well behaved and cleaned up well!!! The bridesmaids were stunning and their dresses were just beautiful!!!!

Rather then light a unity candle, Justin and Ashley chose to mix wine (red and white). Ashley drank first from the glass and Justin polished it off (to a nice round of applause). The Pastor mentioned my Mom at the beginning of the ceremony and it was very emotional for our family. My father looked so sad yet so proud during the ceremony. I fear that the videographer will have me sniffling very loudly trying to keep my nose from running while crying my eyes out!!! I also for the first time decided (after a bit too much champagne through out the day) to try some hussy wear and go with the false eyelashes that all the bridesmaids were getting. I was told after the eyelashes were applied that if I cried they could possible fall off!!! The make up artist instructed me to blot blot my eyes with a Kleenex. Seriously, me...Miss Waterworks is going to blot blot. I put Ken on eyelash patrol!! I could envision myself with an eyelash hanging and not knowing it or better yet fall in to my salad or soup. After all, I am Queen of putting my clothes on backwards or inside out.

What can I say...my son and his beautiful bride, who we adore, were just beaming!!!!! I don't know that I have ever been so proud!!!! The room was filled with so much love and happiness!!!! We are close to Ashley's family and feel very fortunate to be a part of their family and have them join our nut house.

The reception was gorgeous!!! The flowers and soft lighting, oh my goodness, it was something out of a magazine!! The room was full of candles and gave off such a romantic feel. The cake was gorgeous and oh so yummy!!! My two favorite flavors of filling...peanut butter and chocolate!!! Yummy!!! Drinks were flowing, people were laughing and the party kicked off quickly!! Justin and Ashley wanted to get all the first dances, cake cutting, garter and bouquet throwing out of the way so that they could party on...

And party we did!!!!!!! I think I danced all night long!!! My son's friends kept me hopping!!! Miss Addison made it up until 1:30AM!!! She never left the dance floor. She was quite popular with the guest and loved every minute of the attention.

Chris came to my table and said "Mom, let's dance and get this party started". What a sweet moment to share with my oldest son!!! Daddy and Addison joined us on the dance floor.
I love the picture below!! The tenderness in Chris' face is priceless!!! And the picture of Addison and her Daddy dancing along side us makes this picture even more special.
Then came my dance with the handsome groom. I don't know if it's just me but I sang (poorly I might add) to all my babies. Each one I sang a different song to as I rocked them to sleep. I used to tell my husband that one day I would dance with my child at their wedding to that song. Of course the "one" day seemed so far away at the time. When Justin said that I needed to pick a song for our Mother/Son dance it was a no brainer...I had the song picked out for 26 years!! As we got closer to the wedding I was getting nervous about "our song" I knew if we danced to the song I chose, I would cry non stop...I needed a song that wouldn't make me cry, maybe a newer song like "My Wish" or how about "Thank You for loving me". Every time I mentioned to my husband that I was looking to change my Mother/Son dance song he would say "Colleen, you are going to cry no matter what, you have talked about this for 26 years, go with your gut".
So I did..Justin came to the table, reached out his hand and said "let's do it Mom". And when the song, "Close to you"by The Carpenter's started to play it was as though there was no one in the room except the two of us. I looked at my gorgeous, all grown up and very proud son and sang to him just like when he was a baby in my arms (look at my mouth in the picture below, it's all goofy looking because I was singing LOL). Justin laughed as I sang and asked "are you going to sing the entire song"...I said "you bet I am, I'd rock you if I could"...he replied "I'm too fat". We laughed, hugged each other tightly, cried and he gave me a few twirls. And as we danced I felt like the luckiest, proudest and most important Mom in the world!!

Our little flower girl

2011-10-10T21:19:00.000-05:00

What a whirlwind of a weekend!!!! Justin and Ashley got married this past weekend. The wedding was stunning!!!!! We were flying high on happiness overload!!! I cannot wait to share pictures...I did not bring my camera to the reception but our photographer rocked!!! I can't wait to see all of her stunning photographs. I spent most of the evening on the dance floor, shaking off dinner. My sweet friend Steffie and her husband David came to the wedding. It was wonderful having them there to share in our happiness. Steffie snapped a few pictures for me and took a few video's.

For now...a picture of our little Flower Girl getting ready for the big day. Can you believe our little fireball made it up to 1:30 AM!!! I don't think she sat down the entire evening. Addison spent most of the night on the dance floor. The girl has some awesome moves!!!

You Make Me Smile

2011-10-03T11:16:00.000-05:00

Addison truly makes me smile. She is so funny without trying to be. I always wrote down funny things that the boys would say when they were little so that we could look back later in life and giggle. Addison may be the funniest of the pack!!!

Here are a few funny's..

Mommy while washing Addison's hair as she leaned over the tub (her choice).
Mommy "Addison, you need to keep your head down, if you get water all over I will not be a happy camper"
Addison "you don't even camp"

Addison "Do I have to get married when I grow up"
Mommy "of course not, you can live with me for the rest of your life"
Addison "no I think I may want a house of my own one day"
Mommy "oh no, you cannot leave me. It's bad enough you are gone all day at school"
Addison "well (long pause) I can send you emails"

Addison "Mommy why does Santa never get older"
Mommy "hmnnnn...well the is special and he just doesn't"
Addison"that's not a good answer, call Tyler, he is smart because he is in college"
(so we call Tyler)
Addison asked Tyler the same question
Tyler"because he lives in the North Pole of course'
Addison "I knew Tyler would have the answer".

Addison to Daddy (while holding up a pack of lifesavers) "Are these good for you"
Daddy " No, it's candy"
Addison "Then why do they call them Life savers"

Addison while talking to daddy.
Addison "Daddy did you have more hair before you had a job"
Daddy "Yes I did" LOL

Addison and I went to dinner and then to our dress fitting for the wedding. Here was our conversation during dinner.
Addison "Mommy, I need to work on my cartwheels for Justin and Ashley's wedding."
Mommy "why"
Addison "so I'm good"
Mommy "do you plan on cartwheeling during the reception".
Addison (with a duh look on her face)"No silly, during the wedding"
Mommy (speechless)

We are praying that Miss A. does not cartwheel down the aisle...although it may be entertaining...probably not a good idea : )

Chuck E. Cheese and then some..

2011-09-27T20:19:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we celebrated Livi's 9th Birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. We had 15 kids along with Chris, Justin, Ashley, Kenny and Amanda. I don't know who had more fun playing the games...the kids or the adults. We have been going to Chuck E. Cheese for many many many years. I admit, I like it there.

This past summer I pretty much put my camera on rest mode and blogging became sporadic. I was starting to feel like every time we headed out for some family time out came my camera...I realized I was missing out on all the fun and the girls were growing before my eyes. Although I love love love photography and have no plans to stop, my girls would much rather have me present then behind the lens. Of course I will continue to photograph my kids but no longer will I let it interfere with family fun!! I have seen how quickly my boys have grown and I want to savor every moment while the girls are young...the best snapshots will be forever placed in my heart.

I brought along my iphone and a point n' shoot to Livi's party. I took very few pictures but instead spent lot's of time playing games and laughing. Yeah I know, the pictures suck but we made some fun memories and I don't think I had ever laughed so much at Chuck E. Cheese.

Chris was the King of guitar hero with quite a fan club surrounding him...Justin figured out how to out smart one of the token games and land 20 tickets every time (all that money spent on college finally paid off). Kenny enjoyed a few of the kiddie rides. Amanda and Ashley seemed to like the shooting games.... Livi ended up with thousands and thousands of tickets (thanks to her brothers) and brought home lot's of Chuck E. Cheese junk....and I learned that my husband is a proud member of the Chuck E. Cheese fan club..yep, who knew we were VIP's!!! Guess where Chris will be having his rehearsal dinner...come on, my husband has coupons!!!!!

Livi wanted a spider-man cake this year...with some hot pink icing and some sparkle. You can't see it but we added a little sparkle to the sky and the edging is hot pink (even though it looks red in the pictures). I do love Livi's "beat to her own drum" personality.

Justin and Ashley's wedding is 1 1/2 weeks away. Everything is falling in to place nicely. Dresses fit(no double spanx needed), shoes bought, jewelry bought and hair,toe,nail appointments all made. We are ready to roll!!!!

Justin got promoted to Senior and we learned today that he has passed the last part of his CPA exam!!! Things are looking up for the happy couple.

Our home is filled with lot's of happiness but also much sadness. My mom wanted so badly to see her grandson's walk down the aisle. It breaks my heart that she will not be able to attend the wedding. My dad is truly incredible. He is coming to the wedding but will leave right after and not attend the reception..he does not want to leave my mom for very long. I grew up knowing that my parents loved each other but it has not been until lately that I realized exactly how much...my dad never leaves my mom's side.

A few weeks ago my dad had hernia surgery. It was outpatient. My son Kenny came home to help care (do the lifting) for Grandma. My dad was not home more then an hour when he blacked out..he was not able to keep anything down, he blacked out a few more times and we finally called 911. Before the Paramedics entered my parents room, Ken warned them of the situation they were heading in to. There in the bed was my dad, so pale and sick...lying next to a woman weighing only 54 lbs, on oxygen and no clue as to what was going on around her...unable to move any limb on her body and so stiff and in pain...my father refusing to leave his dying wife because he needed to stay home to care for her. The paramedics had tears in their eyes as they tried to convince my dad that he really needed to go to the hospital. Finally my dad said "OK". My dad ended up staying the night in the hospital.
I look at my parents and think "what an amazing love story".

Yesterday the nurse from Hospice informed us that my Mom is in what they call the"actively dying" stage. I have never gone through anything like this before so I was not sure what the nurse meant by that...I had to get out of the house...I just couldn't listen to any more. I am trying to be strong but some days, it's not so easy.

I know this is one long post and if you read all of it...wow!!! Life is crazy and no time to blog any more...school, homework, dance is now 4 times a week and then add in weekend craziness!! People popping in and out all weekend...We have the football package on the dish so Sunday becomes a day of lot's of food, football and a few arguments (my husband, father and boys all like different teams) but I wouldn't have it any other way!!!! That's why we're referred to as "The Nuthouse".

Happy 9th Birthday Miss Liv

2011-09-10T10:04:00.000-05:00

Today our little bundle of energy turns 9 years old!! Wow!!!! I can't even believe it, she is 9!!! We have a big party planned for later this month at Livi's favorite hot spot, Chuck E. Cheese. After well over 20 years of partying at Chuck E. Cheese, I must say, the place kind of grows on you.

Here are a few pictures of our girl through out the years...

You know you are an adoptive mother (or you should be!) if:

1. The fact that there are 143 million children without a parent to kiss them goodnight has ever made you lose sleep.
2. You realize DNA has nothing to do with love and family.
3. You can't watch Adoption Stories on TLC without sobbing.
4. The fact that if 7% of Christians adopted 1 child, there would be no orphans in the world is convicting to you.
5. You spend free time surfing blogs about families who have experienced the blessing of adoption.
6. It drives you crazy when people ask you about your adopted child's "real" parents.
7. You have ever been "pregnant" with your adoptive child longer than it takes an elephant to give birth (2 years!)
8. You had no idea how you would afford to adopt but stepped out in faith anyway knowing where God calls you He will provide.
9. You have ever taken a airplane ride half way around the world with a child you just met.
10. You believe God's heart is for adoption.
11. You realize that welcoming a child into your heart and family is one of the most important legacy's you could ever leave on this earth.
12. You shudder when people say your child is so lucky that you adopted them, knowing full well you are the blessed one to have them in your life.
13. You know what the word Dossier means and you can actually pronounce it!
14. You have welcomed a social worker into the most private parts of your life.

Some favorite Livi lines through out the years....

The girls were jumping on the chairs in the family room.
Mommy "Hey stop jumping on the chair, it's not a trampoline"
Livi " Mommy I know that, it's a pretend trampoline, duh"

Livi was getting dressed in her room and Lucy (dog) was in Livi's room. I over heard Livi talking to the dog.

Livi "Lucy, don't lick my butt! You can lick feet, hands and faces, but not my butt"

Livi "Mommy for Halloween I want to be Elmo wearing a ghost costume".

Mommy "Livi do you want cereal for breakfast"
Livi "No, boys eat cereal, I'm a girl, I need a cupcake".

Justin "Livi do you pee in the jacuzzi"
Livi "No silly I pee in my bathing suit"

Livi "Mommy, boys are dumb"
Mommy "Livi that's not nice, boys are not dumb. You have four brother's and a Daddy, they are all boys".
Livi "Yep, Tyler is dumb, Kenny is dumb, Chris is smart, Justin is smart and Daddy is not a dumb man just a dumb boy"

Livi "When I grow up I'm going to be a doctor"
Mommy "What kind of doctor"
Livi "A doctor that wears rubber gloves"

Livi "Mommy, I'm 16 today it's my turn to drive".

Livi "When I grow up I'm going to be a dentist"
Mommy "That's a great job Livi, you'll be very good at it"
Livi "I know. And I get to wear gloves".

Livi was looking through a new catalog that came in the mail.

Livi "I wish I can have this"
Mommy "Show me what you want and we can get it"
Livi "I want that" (pointing to a baby in a cute halloween costume)
Mommy "we can get you that costume if you want it"
Livi "no I want the baby"
Mommy "That baby is not for sale"
Livi "a ha, the catalog says the baby is 25.00"
Mommy (knowing I won't win the argument) "we'll talk to Santa"

Happy 9th Birthday Livi...we love you to the moon and back!!!!!!

Back To School

2011-08-24T17:15:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day of school for both Livi and Addison. Yes, Miss Livi has returned to school. We are hopeful that things will go well for her. Livi has a very sweet teacher. We met her yesterday for the first time. As Livi was off and running out the classroom door (Dad chasing her) I said to the teacher "you know, she is ADHD" and her teacher looked at me with the sweetest face and said "Don't you worry, we are going to have a good year". I cannot tell you what those few words meant to me.

You want more sweetness??? As we were walking out of the school yesterday, Livi spotted her LD teacher, speech teacher, Gym teacher and the school SW..I have never seen my girl run so fast and hug so tightly!!!! And the hugs were returned with many many smiles and even a few tears.

It gets better.....this morning we pulled up to school to drop both girls off and before I could stop my car what we witnessed brought tears to my eyes. Five teachers stood in front of the school (there to greet children). Of the five teachers I knew only two of them. Apparently they all knew my girl because as we approached the school in our vehicle they all started to clap and two of them actually were jumping up and down clapping for Livi's return. You cannot fake love like that. Ken and I were so touched by their enthusiasm.

Did you know my big girl is now on the second floor of the building with the big kids!!! Yep, she sure is!!! And she has a combination lock on her locker...that's kind of another issue LOL she knows the combination number but opening it is another story. I was envisioning her kicking the locker today to get it open : 0 I'm sure she will get help, other wise those gym shoes will not see the light of day until maybe spring!

Livi has a few of her best friends in her classroom and she is very excited!!!! We are hoping that she can stay on task this year...we will do everything we can to help her and the school at home.

We have discovered over the summer that Livi is ODD/ADHD. Which means her behavior is controlled, which also means we are working very hard to get a grip on it and turn it around...it's not easy but we will never give up on her!!!!! NEVER!!!!!! Livi is now on medication for her ADHD and we hope to see some improvement with her attention span this year...cross your fingers for us!!

Miss Addison is in 1st grade and that means...she is gone all day long!!! I will miss her terribly. She is my baby and I know I will feel a bit lost with out her home. Addison is a very good student and loves school. Her teacher is so sweet and soft spoken. The school does a great job of matching the children with the right teachers. Addison is shy and quiet (well, at school any ways). Her new teacher seems to be very loving and patient. I think they will get along wonderfully!!!!

I know someone else that will miss Addison, Grandpa Kid. The two of them have a wonderful time together...Grandpa Kid gets the biggest kick out of Addison. He loves to tease and tell her stories..to which Addison usually says "Grandpa, your a big liar". He used to be the same way with the boys and my boys adored, and still do, their Grandpa.

Here is a little funny. I was in the kitchen the other day and Addison was calling Grandpa Kid names (please understand, they are both weirdo's and play like this). She was saying things like "Rabbit head", "Squirrel face" and other dumb made up names...and then she said "Bird Crap Head". My mouth hit the floor (not that I have not heard worse in this house). I said "Addison, where did you hear that". She said "from Grandpa". Grandpa said "I did not say that to you". Addison said "Well you gave me the idea". I asked "what do you mean he gave you the idea". Addison said "well, I asked him other names for poop and he told me all kinds of names". My dad started to laugh and said "she asked me the other day for different poop names and I gave her names, but I never thought she would put it all together". Addison said "See Mom, told you he gave me the ideas".

Hmnnnnnn, you think Addison should not hang with Grandpa???

Hope everyone's kids have a great first day back to school.

2011-08-12T16:54:00.000-05:00

Trying to play catch up!!! I have not taken many pictures this summer. So much going on in our home that the camera has taken a back seat.

Quick Update
First of all, thank you for all the emails and prayers for my mom. Mom is down to 54 lbs. She is so strong. It breaks my heart watching her fade away. Some days I admit that I cannot even go in to her room....I know that is cowardly of me, but it's the truth...I just can't do it. Our family very much appreciates all the prayers.

This weekend is Ashley's bridal shower and we are very excited!!! The wedding is getting close. I still cannot believe that two of my boys are getting married...oh my goodness, can you even imagine when I become a Gla-ma? Yes I decided that is going to be my title...Gla-ma. Ken is going to be "Pops". Man, considering that Ken and I already have our official Grandparent titles, I sure hope the Grandchildren follow soon (boys are you listening, I'm ready).

We are still trying to wrap up contracts for Chris and Kristen who will be getting married Oct 6, 2012. This is all so exciting!!!

Kenny's girlfriend Amanda has been filming as an extra for the new series "Playboy Club". She had to cut and die her hair a certain way. She is an extra but films every day so I guess she is a reoccurring extra? Kenny's other friend is also in the series and she is a bunny...not one of the star bunny's, but she is a bunny. So I guess we will be watching the "Playboy Club" this fall. Amanda also worked on the new Kelsey Grammar series. We are very proud of Amanda and did I mention that we adore her.

Now on to Miss Addison, my little dancer. I thought I posted her recital pictures on my blog but apparently I did not (first sign of aging I'm sure). These pictures (which are not the best) were from Addison's recital in June. Chris, Kristen, Kenny, Amanda, Tyler(came home from college), Daddy and myself(Justin and Ashley could not make it) were so proud to watch our little Purple Princess perform on stage. I am usually the emotional one in the family but I think I have some heavy competition...yeppers, Kristen was a hot mess when Addison came out on stage...pure love!!!!!!!

Just a little funny. Justin and Ashley had Cubs tickets and could not make it to Addison's recital. Justin called Addison to tell her that he could not come to her recital on Saturday. Addison's reply "That's OK, you can just bring me flowers on Sunday". That's my girl!!!!! Justin walked in on Sunday with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. I tell ya, you have to train them young!!!

"Dancing is like dreaming with your feet!"

Author: Constanze

"Sometimes being a brother is better than being a superhero."

Author: Marc Brown

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them."

Author: Archbishop Desmond Tutu

" Cherish the everyday moments, because you never know what they will bring" Author: unknown

2011-08-01T21:44:00.000-05:00

"God gave us children to bring immeasurable joy into our lives!" Author: Linda Marshall

2011-07-24T20:58:00.000-05:00

As much as our home has been full of sadness lately, our home has also been full of much happiness!!! We are in full blown wedding mode!!!!!

First up on the agenda is Justin and Ashley's wedding. Justin and Ashley will be getting married on Oct 8, 2011.

They are having an evening wedding at the JW Marriot.
There are 18 attendants plus Addison and Livi.
Last I heard there were about 360 people on the guest list.
On Oct 8th we will be getting up early for hair and make-up and heading out on a trolley around the city for pictures.

A few weeks ago we went to the tasting. All I can say is, the food is going to be fabulous!!! The hotel is absolutely gorgeous!!!!

It took me forever to find a dress but I finally found one. I had to pay to put a rush on it because of my "last minute Charlie" qualities. I found and ordered shoes last week (let's hope they fit). Addison and Livi's dresses should be early September, I just need to find them shoes.

We are wrapping up the planning for Ashley's shower. It is planned for August and we have about 100 people attending for a luncheon.

Also in August is the Bachelorette party. I know we will be starting off on a private yacht and after that not sure...I know that what ever we do it will be wonderful. I love being around Ashley's family and friends, they are lot's of fun and so full of love!!!

We are very excited to watch our son Justin marry the love of his life!!!!

Chris and Kristen have been busy little bee's trying to find a venue that they like. I think we have finally found one. We are in contract mode at the moment. Ken is a member of the club that they will most likely be having their wedding at. Ken, Chris and Kristen are working on the details of the contract and we are trying to get everything wrapped up soon.

Chris and Kristen will be getting married on Oct. 6, 2012.

Kristen sadly lost her mother a few years ago. Kristen has asked me to help her with the wedding planning. I know that I cannot ever take the place of Kristen's mother nor would I ever try to but I am truly honored that Kristen loves and trust me enough to ask for my help. I am looking forward to the up and coming months of planning along side Chris and Kristen...it will be fun!!!!

My Mom always talked about watching her grandson's get married and how exciting it would be. I know that this weighs heavy on my boys hearts. When my Mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's almost 10 years ago, Chris was so worried that Grandma would not be there for his wedding. Of course at the time we had no clue what was truly in store for us. We know now that Grandma will not be at his wedding or at Justin's wedding. I know that this breaks their hearts. When we were in Europe, Chris' eyes welled up during a conversation we had together...he said "I know that Grandma will not be at my wedding, but it is really important that she see Kristen's ring and that I tell her that I am getting married". Once we were home, Chris and Kristen came over for a visit and made their way in to Grandma's room. Through many tears, Chris and Kristen shared a very tender moment with Grandma.

I would also like to thank everyone for the emails and prayers....our family is very grateful that so many of you are praying for my Mom...xoxo

4th of July

2011-07-04T21:40:00.001-05:00

"Patriotism is the glue that holds this great country together!"
Author: Linda Marshall

Today was a day filled with lot's of food, laughter, too much wine and beer,family,friends and many tears.

All four of my boys were over today, along with their fiancee's, girlfriend and a few friends. The girls had so much fun playing in the pool with the big boys. Grandpa enjoyed his time with his grandson's. We ate until we were ready to pop!!!! Addison entertained everyone with her dance moves and Livi enjoyed battling the big boys with water guns.

As we were enjoying our day, a few feet away, the glue to our family lay in her bed shaking uncontrollably and staring off at nothing.

It's truly heartbreaking. After we finished our meal and we were sipping on coffee and eating cake...dad went and got Mom out of bed. He brought her in to the kitchen, half carrying her and half dragging her feet as she tried to touch her tippy toes on the ground. Silence fell over the entire room. Mom's breathing is not good and you could hear her gasping for air. The woman who we all remember would proudly sport her gawd awful red white and blue sparkle shirt on the 4th of July, now was dressed in light green PJ's that were falling off her frail 70 lb body. The woman who we all remember loving food so much was now barely able to eat a small cup of cottage cheese for dinner......My dad sat Mom down on her chair at the table as my older boys watched with such sadness in their faces. Then came Livi, our little storm of energy!!!! "Grandpa Grandpa, I get to put Grandma's bib on remember"....as she wrapped her arms around her Grandma's neck, kissed her cheek and said "happy 4th Grandma, isn't today fun". I looked around the room, I don't think there was a dry eye.

Saying good-bye to Grandma today was very hard for Chris and Justin. I know they left here today with so much sadness in their hearts...

As a Mother and Daughter this is very hard. I want so badly to protect my children from the pain and at the same time I often feel like a little girl myself swallowed in pain. I don't want to lose my Mom...I am a child still...I am her child and I am so not ready to be the glue to our family...she is the glue!!!! I cannot imagine what life will be like without my Mom...and it scares me.

Europe

2011-06-07T20:54:00.000-05:00

We returned home on Friday night from a 2 week European Cruise. Reason for the trip, my son Chris asked his girlfriend Kristen to marry him.

My youngest son Tyler came along as my roommate and was an awesome roommate if I may add. Tyler and I arrived in Barcelona several hours before Chris and Kristen on Saturday, May 21st. We were exhausted from a very long day of travel but so excited about the engagement and our cruise. The plan was to tour Park Guell late Saturday once Chris and Kristen arrived and this would be where Chris would propose. Plan changed!!! Chris texted me once they arrived at the hotel and we headed up to the terrace. They had been traveling many hours and like us, they were exhausted. Once up on the terrace, Chris got down on one knee and very sweetly asked Kristen to marry him. I was so excited to be able to share in such an incredible moment.

We headed out to the famous Las Ramblas and made our way to the Market of la Boqueria. Chris couldn't wait for some Tapas. Along the way we stopped for pictures. Chris and Kristen were fun to photograph, they are a bit goofy and fun!!!!!

As tired as we were we knew we had to keep going until night time. We headed to Park Guell. It was incredible!!!!! I admit I was dragging but after some sangria I was good to go.

The happy couple!!!! We feel very blessed to have Kristen join our crazy family!!!!

Tyler was in awe of all the artwork and history throughout our trip. Ty is a history major and this was an amazing trip for him. He was very knowledgeable on many of the places that we visited.

We hit several tapas in the evening, drank a bit too much and ate way too much!!! Chris set up a meet and greet and we met up with some of the people we would be cruising with. That was fun and they were all so excited about Chris and Kristen's engagement!!
We spent the night in Barcelona and headed to our cruise ship on Sunday for a 12 day cruise mostly through Italy. We did spend one day in France and the last port was in Spain.
I have a ton of pictures to process and will post slowly but surely.

On a side note...today we brought Hospice in for my mom. It was a rough day and we could use some prayers. This has been so heart wrenching to watch my Mom fade away. I know that bringing in Hospice was/is the right thing to do, but I admit it was hard to hear some of the things that the nurse discussed today. We love Mom/Grandma very much and we know we are slowly losing her.

Mother's Day

2011-05-07T17:15:00.000-05:00

Until I actually became a Mother I don't think I fully understood what an important roll a Mother plays in a child's life. I became a mother very young, I was 18 years old when my son Christopher was born. It's been 28 years since that miraculous day back in November, 1982. I remember that day like it was yesterday.

As Mothers, we remember those first. The first time I held my baby boy in my arms. That warm and fuzzy feeling that took over my heart. The smell of his sweet baby breath and the softness of his skin. Singing softly "You are my Sunshine" as I rocked my new baby boy in my arms. The promise I made to Protect him for the rest of his life and to teach him life lessons so that he would grow to be an incredible young man...as mothers, we remember all of those special moments don't we. I can't imagine ever forgetting those feelings.

It's hard to watch my Mother forget. It must be awful to not remember things. I often wonder, what does it feel like not to remember? What is she thinking about? Who does she see when she looks at me? Sometimes I feel like she looks right through me, as if I'm not even there. But there is this part of me that believes she knows...maybe it's my way of protecting my heart.

Watching my Mother fade away is hard. Harder than I can possible put in to words. I have so much I want to tell her about. Some times when she is laying in bed I walk in to her room and start talking...I tell her things about the kids, life etc...I pretend she understands. I even pause every now and then for an answer. And as I babble away my mom appears to be looking at me. Her eyes glossed over. She looks so tired and it makes me so very sad to see her like this...so so sad. I want to fix her and I can't.

I am lucky to be able to share Mother's Day with my mom this year. I hope and pray that she knows in her heart that I love her so very much. I hope she knows that having her live in our home has been a blessing. We as a family have learned so much as we help my Dad care her. My children are learning about compassion and unconditional love. So you see....my mother may not be able to speak, smile or remember much, but she continues to teach life lessons to her family......and after all, isn't that what mothers are supposed to do.

Wishing all of you a Mother's Day filled with love and happiness.

"The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother"

Author: Anonymous

"My mom is a never ending song in my heart of comfort, happiness, and being. I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune ."
Author: Graycie Harmon

"See there's this place in me where your fingerprints still rest, your kisses still linger, and your whispers still softly echo. It's the place where a part of you will forever be a part of me."
Author: Unknown

Easter

2011-04-26T17:01:00.000-05:00

We had such a nice Easter. We were fortunate enough to have three of our four boys home along with their girlfriends/fiancee. Tyler had to stay down at school and we missed him horribly. Would you take a look at our beautiful Easter Eggs. The girls did a beautiful job and no cracked eggs. I gave them each a dozen to color and they had a ball!!! I still like dying Easter eggs.

Chris decided we were eating Italian Style this year. Chris brought Italian sausage and a beautiful meat and cheese platter from an Italian store that we all love. I made shrimp lasagna roll-ups amongst other things. We had an assortment of Italian cookies and pies for dessert and few bottles of Italian wine. Chris, Kristen, Tyler and I will be leaving for Europe in mid May for our 12 day cruise. We are very excited and are finalizing our excursions. I think I am most excited about visiting the Vatican and heading down the Canal. Most of our stops will be in Italy. My Great Grandfather and both Great Grandmothers (on my Mom's side) are from Italy and I am very excited to visit their homeland.

The Easter Bunny was very good to both girls. We are not big on filling their baskets full of candy (although they did get some chocolate). Their baskets were filled with game boy games, bunny chalk, moon sand, bubble wands, webkinz, jewelry and small flower pots with seeds. I think they enjoyed the flower pots the most!! They are big in to planting flowers this year.

I love having my family around. My Mom stayed up all day long. I could see in her eyes the joy that she felt having the kids around. She no longer speaks but her eyes say it all. I love that my boys are so sweet with their Grandmother. They love her so much!!! With our big family our house is loud and filled with lot's of teasing and laughter!!! Everyone is moving in different directions and it gets nuts!!! I'm usually yelling at someone to get something or to get out of my way...this year amongst the craziness I stopped for a moment and looked around me...there was so much love filled in one room, I felt like the luckiest person alive!!!!

I hope you and your family had a wonderful Easter!!!

Homeschool 101

2011-04-19T15:04:00.000-05:00

I will not pretend to be an expert on homeschooling...heck, I won't even pretend to know what I'm doing. I'm kind of flying by the seat of my pants here. What I can say for certain is that I am not only learning a ton about my daughter and how her brain ticks....but I am also learning a ton about myself.

One day Livi was attended public school and the next day she was not. Talk about quick decisions!!! I had to resource quickly. I was fortunate to have the quick support of some awesome friends (who are LD teachers and home schooling moms) On the day I pulled Livi out of school I stayed up almost all night long researching programs. It was important to find the "right" programs for Livi. We all learn in different ways, I already knew that my little "Lumpster" was right brained and extremely visual. Now how to connect to her wires?

I joined several yahoo groups for homeschooling, homeschooling a child with SPD and homeschooling an adoptive child. I cannot tell you what a wealth of information those groups have been. I came across a math program called Touch Math. I knew this would be the perfect program for Livi. What I didn't know is that Livi was very familiar with the program. She loves touch math and is doing an awesome job on her daily worksheets!!! I was sent to an LD site by a friend and came across "Explode the Code". I ordered both the online version and the work books. What I didn't know is that once again, this was a program that Livi was very familiar with and was using at school. We also use Brainpop and Time4learning. Both of programs are wonderful for visual kids.

I had to really focus on organization. It's so important to keep everything in order. I put together our daily lessons in the evening when the girls are asleep and it makes life a lot easier if I know where everything is. I keep everything in boxes and labeled.

We love art!!!! I make sure to have at least one art project a day for the girls (Addison home schools with us in the morning). I try to incorporate our art project in to our daily lesson if at all possible. In fact I try to tie everything in to a theme each day if possible. There are a ton of sites with free worksheets online. Here are a few...
A to Z teachers stuff
School House Technologies
Education World
Crayola
I work very hard at making learning fun. We study all kinds of things besides the usual math and language arts. In Social Studies we study Dinosaurs, sea life, our environment and even religion. We studied our teeth and eating write for health. What I am finding is that Livi is getting it. When we read or talk about our subjects it makes me smile huge when Livi is able to process, connect and answer the questions...that's when I know, it's working!!! We studied the food chain the other day and talked about humans and how they eat and then went on to the food pyramid. Livi was answering all the questions and even adding some information. Yesterday we were studying fish. The food chain came up regarding ocean life and Livi piped up and said "hey, so the food chain is every where, wow". LOL And there it was...the connection!!!
When we studied the Brachiosaurus last week I asked the question "what animal in the zoo do you think is part of the same family as the Brachiosaurus" Livi said "well the Giraffe of course" And Boom there it was again...CONNECTION!!!!!

Our greatest challenge is reading. I needed to figure out a way to make reading fun. Livi has SPD and loves to be enclosed whether it be under covers, or in a tent..she must feel safe. I found this great hanging tent at Land of Nod with a nice floor pillow to match. This is our reading tent. We all three cuddle up inside and read...and often both girls can be found reading in the tent by themselves.
Livi was telling me about a reading program that she enjoyed at school called Raz-kids. I googled it and the program looked awesome, so we signed up(it's an online program, great for visual kids). Livi loves it!!! I love how she can either read the book or have it read to her. After she completes the book she takes a quiz. She earns rewards a long the way. We are also using a program called touch phonics.

Other great tools have been the Leapfrog Tag. Ipad has lot's of great apps and Disney Digital books are wonderful!!!!

I have learned so much about me along the way. I am very visual and wish that there were more visual tools put in place when I was young. When planning a lesson I try to put myself in Livi's place and think "how can I make our lesson come to life and make her want to learn about it". I admit it can be challenging at times but it always seems something pops in to my head. I take a lot of ques from the girls. I listen to what they are talking about and try to incorporate that in to our lesson...We have even rocked out to "The Bieb for Gym" and made our own bath bombs for science...

I think we are going to be just fine : )

Save The Date

2011-04-16T20:43:00.007-05:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Justin and Ashley last weekend for their "Save the date"cards. I cannot believe my little boy is getting married. It's so surreal to me. As a mother it's natural to think about the day our children grow up and get married but it always seems so far away....my shy little boy grew up so fast!! 26 years poof!!!

We have known Ashley since she and Justin were in the 8th grade. What started out as a close friendship changed to love after they both had graduated from high school. They managed to stay together through college, even though they were several states a part.

Ashley and Justin will be saying their vows on 10/8/11 in front of over 300 guest. Their fairytale wedding will only be the start to their magnificent journey through life together.

We could not ask for a sweeter, more beautiful daughter in law (both inside and out). We are a very lucky family...

Well....

2011-04-15T21:19:00.000-05:00

We've been blog slackers but will play catch up very soon. Lot's to share...

Cha Cha Changes.....

2011-03-24T12:22:00.000-05:00

"Teaching kids to count is fine,
but teaching them what counts is best."
Author: Bob Talbert

Brace yourself...this is long!!!!

IEPs-I hate them!!! I didn't used to hate them, but I do now. When Kenny was little he had an IEP due to dyslexia (processing) and ADHD. The IEP meetings were always good. Everyone was cordial and we all worked together. Kenny was in LD reading and math and was behind all through high school in those areas...but he found his strengths and flourished!!!! We never made a big deal out of his disabilities and taught Kenny not to use them as a crutch..I was very proud when Kenny was chosen by his peers to give the commencement speech at Graduation!!!

I wish I could say that Livi's IEP meetings were the same. Yes they are always cordial but I always felt that the white elephant was sitting in the corner of the room...that being "Contained Classroom". Livi's team knew that I would NEVER agree to a contained classroom for Livi...NEVER NEVER NEVER!!! There was no reason for it..she was in LD reading and LD math because she was LD in those areas...that is where she belonged.Livi also had an aide this year. At the December IEP meeting someone in the IEP team made a comment about Livi's test scores and not including them in her teachers classroom scores...that would not be fair because Livi does not test well. I really had no problem with that at all...I loved Livi's teacher (still do) and would never want to see her suffer due to Livi's low testing...but at the same time a light bulb went off in my head and my husbands...this is the issue...this is the real issue..Livi's test scores. You see Livi goes to a choice school in our district. You get in through lottery. They are kind of like the private school of our district. There are not many "LD Livi's" in our little school. Most of the real LD kids go to the regular(non-choice) elementary school.

I wrote not to long ago that we got Livi's meds worked out and how wonderful she was doing..that is still true. She was bringing home good behavior reports and reports that she was accepting more help...I thought things were going great to be honest. But...I kept hearing things like "we are really worried for 3rd grade, she is really behind in reading". I heard that a lot. My comment would be..."well she is in LD reading so if she is behind...she is behind." Seriously, what do they think, she is all of a sudden going to catch up???? I was not understanding the comments and didn't know what they wanted from us or her...but that white elephant was in the corner.

A planning meeting was called..not an IEP, a casual planning meeting...so we were told. When Ken and I walked in we were a bit surprised to see the Director of Special Education Services in the meeting. Ken and I both felt really good walking in to the meeting...we knew how well Livi was doing. The good feeling didn't last long at all. We saw the behavior chart (they document Livi accepting help) and we could see that it was going up...that was a good thing right? Yes, but...she doesn't always like to accept help. I guess Ken and I were the only ones celebrating that the chart was moving up in the right direction. Then we heard about how Livi was really making an effort on the play ground to join in with the girls, but...the friendships are not friendships really...more like the other girls mother her. Then we moved on to OT (which was positive),Speech (positive) and then her LD teacher. I really adored her LD teacher and I must admit I was a bit crushed. Once again I heard about 3rd grade and Livi not being ready...she is behind. Yes we all know that, is this not why she is in "LD". Then we heard about how Livi relies too much on the LD teacher to help her and not always the aides..."Hello, my daughter has sensory, she likes things the same and the same program all the time, it's called controlling the environment around her, SPD, look it up". I heard about her focus and how it was hard to keep her focused (ADHD), then how she often will not read but if she gets skipped she gets upset (yep, there's that SPD control). As I was listening to all the things that my daughter does not do right I was thinking to myself...is this not an LD class? Then her LD teacher wanted to make it clear that socialization was most important to us and not academics...she just wanted it on record. I had no problem with that...I was not moving my daughter to a contained classroom at some other school where she knew no one and was away from her friends (who apparently are more like mothers).

To say my head wasn't spinning would be an understatement. Then DSES (the Director of Special Education Services) piped up. First she said something about Livi not liking loud noises (something I brought up in causal conversation during the meeting and we were laughing about it) but Livi's voice being loud and how that concerned her..I told her not to worry about it...that was kind of a reach statement as far as I was concerned. Then her voice kind of trembled (first sign something was about to be said that we would not like) and she said "I understand you do not want someone from the outside coming in to observe Livi but just so you know we are entitled to bring in who ever we want with out your permission and we owe you nothing more then a courtesy call". Those that know me, are probably thinking "oh no she didn't". I was shocked...I responded with "No one is coming in from SEDOL (first step to a contained classroom in our eyes) to observe Livi, she is my daughter and I will decide who comes in to observe her not the school, we as parents have rights". Then Miss DSES repeated herself..once again letting us know we would get a courtesy call...I then said "My daughter is not a hamster in a cage to be viewed, she is a human being. I am her mother and her advocate, I know what is best for my daughter". Then we heard "Well don't you think everyone around this table wants whats best for Livi". I said "no, everyone around this table wants whats best for the school, and having my daughter observed is not best and it will not happen....I will pull her out if I have to". DSES said "go a head". I said "fine I will, who do I have to talk to". DSES said "the superintendent". I said "fine this meeting is over".

At that point my husband took over..the room got very fuzzy and I really don't remember much of what was said after that. I do know he said how we felt kicked in the gut...how we have worked so hard with everyone in that room and have been more then willing to do what ever it took to make things easier on everyone. How we have bought all kinds ofEducational programs for Livi at home and changed meds many times over...supplied all of her prizes for her good day bucket so it did not come out of the school's expense...and that when things go well, they kick us down, why????? We did not want SEDOL coming in because to us that was the first step of a slippery slop. They wanted Livi observed for new ideas on how to get her to accept help.

I don't even remember the drive home after the meeting. I was angry, hurt, disgusted and quite sick to my stomach. Ken asked me to sleep on it, maybe pull Livi out after spring break...I got on facebook and asked friends for help (and help they gave, by the tons). I was guided to yahoo groups and to websites. I spent all day Thursday researching...studying the home school laws in our state. My head was spinning like a top out of control.

I went to bed and prayed prayed prayed!!! Asking...begging God for answers. What do you want from me? Give me a sign? Give me peace!!!! Just tell me what to do!!!! I will do what ever you tell me to do!!!!! Just help me..please God...help me!!!! I cried myself to sleep.

I woke up Friday morning and was so sure of my decision...I asked Ken to sit down and I said "I'm pulling her out!!! Not after spring break I'm pulling her out NOW!!! How could I send her back to a school where the LD dept made it clear they did not want her. Why on earth would I do something like that. I called the school, talked to the Principle (who is awesome by the way) and told him I was pulling Livi and had decided to home school her.

I was not prepared on Friday but luckily I had been gathering information, books and had several homeschooling programs on Livi's computer.

Saturday Livi's friends came by the house with a letter that read how sad they were that Livi would not be at school. I admit to crying when I read the letter. One of my greatest concerns for home schooling has been the social aspect. On Sunday at Addison's party one of my girlfriends/neighbor who's daughter is friends with Livi assured me that they (my neighbors who's girls are Livi's friends at school) are here for us...that they wanted me to know that we will still have playdates and make sure that Livi is still social with the girls...that same special neighbor, who happens to be a teacher, offered to help me if I needed any kind of help..I am overwhelmed by the support of my neighbors and friends and feel very grateful.

I know this will not be an easy task...don't think that I don't know that. I know that it is going to take getting used to...I am losing free time that I admit to loving!!! I know that I will have to be very patient with Livi. I also know that I need to teach Livi differently...but at the same time, who knows better then Mommy how my little Lumpster's brain functions...she is very right brained. I need to think outside the box and make sure she is intrigued..So far we have based a day on Dr. Seuss...we made green eggs and ham and sat in a cardboard box and read "Green Eggs and Ham". Yes I climbed in that box and took on the part of Sam's friend while Livi read the part of Sam. We made birthday hats and studied how different countries celebrate birthdays and used our birthday hats to help us count for math. Today we made butterflies and pulled out our new "Solving Math Problems" book...but first I needed to make my little detective a hat...how can we solve problems with out a detective hat. Livi loves her online "Explode the Code" reading program and was on there for over an hour...soon our touch math program will arrive and a few other programs I have ordered.

Bottom line is this...in 3rd grade the test scores matter. Livi's little choice school did not want Livi's scores or problems there.. it was better to send her to the regular school and let Livi be on their records. People home school for all different reasons...we are home schooling because our school system failed Livi...I would be lying if I didn't admit to feeling bitter. I do..but at the same time we have some awesome staff members working for our school district and it's not fair for me to slap the same label on all of them.

I think we are going to be A-OK : )

Happy 6th Birthday Addison!!!

2011-03-22T10:36:00.000-05:00

On Sunday we celebrated Addison's 6th Birthday at Pump It Up!!! We had quite the turn out!!! 20 kids, parents, Addison's brother's (minus Tyler who could not make it due to school) and the boys girlfriends/fiance. We had a full house and it was wonderful!!!! The kids bounced, slid, jumped and ran for 1 1/2 hours...I did my best to keep up with them but I must admit after about 10 times climbing up and down the big slides...I was beat!!! It was a good work out!!!

Face painting was a big hit!!! Addison decided on a simple bat girl look. Some of the boys went for the full on spider-man look.

The Crown and blow-up chair were a big hit with the birthday girl. Miss Livi was worn out and hung with brother Chris...who has a special soft spot for "The Lumpster".

Ashley was in charge of placing Addison's candles in the cake...Miss Addison blew out all six candles and one for good luck with much pride...she loves being six. Six is very grown up you know.

Livi's yummy assignment

2011-03-17T05:00:00.001-05:00

Last Friday Livi brought home Jiffy the Giraffe along with a research assignment. The research assignment was on the Shamrock Shake. We Livi needed to find two interesting facts about the Shamrock Shake and take pictures with Jiffy.
Livi's idea of research was to down the shake and talk later.

These were the picture pages that Livi turned in to her teacher.

We did manage to find a few interesting facts on Shamrock Shake.

Did you know the Shamrock Shake is sold year round in Ireland. Pretty cool huh...especially if you like Shamrock Shakes : )

Hope your all wearing green today!!!! Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

The Performer

2011-03-13T09:11:00.004-05:00

I wanted to share a short film by Rick Wayne starring my son Ken as "The Performer". Both Rick and Kenny are very talented!!! I found this short piece to be powerful!!!!!!
Before viewing the film please scroll down and turn the music off on my blog or open the film up in a new window by going here.

The Performer from rick wayne on Vimeo.

My Wish For You

2011-03-04T15:19:00.000-06:00

My Wish ~RASCAL FLATTS

I hope that the days come easy and the moments pass slow,
And each road leads you where you want to go,
And if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose,
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you.
And if one door opens to another door closed,
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window,
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile,

But more than anything, more than anything,
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to,
Your dreams stay big, and your worries stay small,
You never need to carry more than you can hold,
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to,
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too,
Yeah, this, is my wish.

I hope you never look back, but ya never forget,
All the ones who love you, in the place you left,
I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,
And you help somebody every chance you get,
Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake,
And you always give more than you take.

This is my wish
I hope you know somebody loves you
May all your dreams stay big

Oh how I love that Rascal Flatts song...every time I hear it I cry. I want nothing more then to see my children happy in life doing what ever it is that makes them tick...

Our Livi the Lumpster (who this week would like to be called Fancy Nancy/Bonnie/Spiderman) has really had a rough road. I often think about how hard it must be to be Livi. She has had so many challenges in her 8 years of life. I sometimes feel how unfair...why her? And yes I do realize that life is not fair...but I'm her mother and my heart breaks for her time and time again.

This is not a feel sorry for Livi post...this is a post that I am very excited to share. We cannot believe the changes in our sweet girl. In my last post regarding Miss Livi I talked openly about our struggles and how much we love her and that we would continue to fight for her. I am very pleased to say that we found a wonderful doctor, started on some new medication and Livi is a complete different person...she is happy, funny and so much easier. We have seen very very few melt downs...and I mean hardly any at all. We still struggle with sleep and it breaks my heart that she just cannot sleep the night...she gets so tired during the day...but hopefully that too will change one day. Livi comes home with little notes from friends in class that say things like "BFF" or "I like you Livi you are so nice". I can't tell you how proud she is of these little notes...and we save every one of them!!!!!!

As you can see she allowed me to take a few pictures. She is not super comfortable in front of the camera because she has always told me to get lost LOL I will say she loves being behind the camera AND she is pretty darn good. I think this just may be a good hobby for her and I to bond over. I plan on getting her a new camera soon, one with some simple settings. I think it will really build her confidence and she will love having a hobby of her own.

We recently celebrated 8 years as a family. I cannot believe Livi has been with us for 8 years already!!!!
Oh how I love love love this sweet child of mine...We are blessed.

Excitements in the air!!

2011-02-17T20:49:00.000-06:00

The girls were so excited to receive their official invites from Ashley asking them if they would be part of her wedding party...Ashley has nine bridesmaids plus Livi and Addison and Justin has 10 groomsmen...it's going to be a beautiful sunset ceremony and we can't wait!!!!

Thank you Ashley and Justin for including the girls in your very special day. I cannot tell you how happy we are for the two of you!!! We love you both very very much!!! You have made two little girls very happy!!!!

The Blizzard of 2011

2011-02-07T10:46:00.000-06:00

The blizzard was almost a week ago but we are still digging out here in the burbs of Chicago. We moved to Chicago from California 12 years ago and I will never get used to all the snow. Especially the mounds of snow dumped on us last week...it was crazy!!!!!!!

We were warned for days of the blizzard approaching but not sure the amounts of snow we would get, up until the night before (and even then I don't think the weather men knew the true amounts). I made my way to the grocery store early Tuesday with all the other crazies!! Picked my girls up at 2:00PM from school, just as the winds kicked in. I had a crock pot full of chili ready to go and we buckled down for the night.

Woke up Wednesday morning to a full blown Blizzard. Our little dog Lucy of course had to be let out to go potty..only one problem...we could not get out!!! Every door was blocked with several feet of snow. It was actually pretty comical. The slider was the only way out...only one problem, if we opened the slider, all the snow would dump in to our kitchen. My Dad held a large piece of cardboard up against the glass on the slider, I slowly opened the slider (dad held the snow back) and Ken climbed over the cardboard and in to the snow..he dug a trail for Lucy and cleared our back door.

This picture was taken early in the morning as the snow was still falling pretty heavy and the wind was crazy!!! As you can see the snow was almost up to our back windows and covered our shrubs.

This is a view from our patio...the snow was up several feet!!! When we opened the garage this was our view...look at how the snow just stood in place when we opened the garage door.

My Dad and Kenny's cars were completely covered to the top in snow...the only thing showing were their mirrors.

What an insane amount of snow!!!!

Ken decided he needed to clear the snow up our walkway(our walkway is brick and we can't use the snow blower on it) I stuck my head out the front door and yelled to him "what are you doing, that's too much snow to shovel" Ken's response "well if I don't shovel, how will UPS deliver all your packages". Hmnnn, thought about that for a second and said "yeah, your right, better get to work". My dad and Kenny jumped in to help : ) Always looking out for me and my bad shopping habits.

For $399.99 plus shipping and handling you too can have a wonderful cardboard playhouse like ours...Grandpa and cute kids not included..

"My grandkids believe I'm the oldest thing in the world. And after
two or three hours with them, I believe it, too."

Author: Gene Perret

""A heart that has truly loved never forgets."" Author: Thomas Moore

2011-01-31T16:33:00.000-06:00

Today my Mom and Dad celebrate their 51st Anniversary!!! It makes me sad that my Mom has no clue what today is...but what's most important is that she is still here with us and knows that she is loved.

It makes me sad that my parents did not get to enjoy their Golden Years. My Mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's at 64 years old. Way too young. My father takes very good care of my Mom. I have watched him transpire from the husband of the 60's (cooking was a woman's job, never changed a diaper, brought home the bacon and was always fussing with out door chores and projects) to a husband that is a 24/7 "always on call" caretaker and wonderful cook I may add. He baths her, changes her, does her hair, nails, teeth, feeds her, keeps her medication in order and makes sure that my Mom is always comfortable. My father is truly an inspiration!!! I hope that some day I can be as wonderful and good as he is.

"As we grow together, as we continue to change with age, there is one thing that will never change: I will always keep falling in love with you.""
Author: Unknown

Several weeks ago a dear friend of mine, Isabelle, encouraged me to start photographing my mom. To be honest I was scared to do it. My first thoughts were that I don't think she would want me to. My Mom was always so put together and never left the house without make-up, nails polished and her hair done just right (she was a hairdresser after all). Maybe it would be wrong for me to photograph her? I expressed my concern to Isabelle and thought maybe it was not a good idea. Isabelle then sent me a beautiful email that was so loving and sweet. After reading Isabelle's email I built up the courage to start snapping away...I mean really, what was I afraid of?

"Here in the dark, I stand before you, knowing this is my chance to show you my heart."
Author: "Who I Am" From "Camp!"

I admit, the first time I looked through my lens at my mom, it was hard. I saw her in such a different light. I was forced to really pay attention to what I was seeing. The tears rolled down my checks and it was painful. My mom is so frail, so disoriented and it's really hard to witness. A woman who once loved to cook...a true Italian Mommy and Grandmother who delighted in cooking big dinners for everyone!!! A woman who enjoyed food so much!!!! And now, barely weighing 75lbs, only able to eat a few things and relying on Ensure. So many thoughts rambled through my mind as I snapped away. Many new raw thoughts...she looked so innocent...like a child. How hard this must be for her to rely on everyone around her. A woman who was once so modest, now relies on others to bath and dress her. It made me so sad...and the flood gates opened. I had a very good much needed cry.

"See there's this place in me where your fingerprints still rest, your kisses still linger, and your whispers still softly echo. It's the place where a part of you will forever be a part of me."

Once I was able to dry off the tears..I gently whispered to my Mom..."You are so beautiful, please allow me to take your photograph". She looked at me like she understood what I was saying. She looked so calm and peaceful. The sun from the window was gently brushing her cheek and her hair had a beautiful glimmer to it.
Through my lens, my mother appeared. The woman that has cared for me all my life. The woman who was the heart and soul of our family...there she was. She hadn't changed at all. She was still so beautiful, just like I remembered!!!!!

"See there's this place in me where your fingerprints still rest, your kisses still linger, and your whispers still softly echo. It's the place where a part of you will forever be a part of me."

I loaded up the pictures and started to edit them. It was so comforting to stroke her face with the brush. It felt as though I was softly brushing against her cheek. I ran the brush along her lashes and removed a few stray hairs from her face.. my pen felt like an extension of my hands and fingers. I took my time editing...only because I wanted to trace every line on her face. I wanted to memorize her. I admit it was emotional and very therapeutic. I will always be grateful to Isabelle who gave me the courage I needed.

I know this may sound crazy to most but if you are a photographer, you will understand. We see things so differently through our lens. It's like a whole new world. Sometimes what we see is good and other times it can be scary. I keep my camera out now. I don't want to miss one moment with my Mom. My pictures are not edited to look like a photo shoot...they are very much just family snap shots....the kind of pictures that will mean the most to our family once my mom is no longer with us.

Just around the corner in every woman's mind - is a lovely dress, a wonderful suit, or entire costume which will make an enchanting new creature of her. ~Wilhela Cushman

2011-01-27T13:32:00.000-06:00

Aaahhhh the wedding...I have gotten lot's of emails asking me if there has been a date set for Justin and Ashley's wedding and the answer is...they are getting closer to picking a date. Ashley and her mom have been looking for a venue that can hold a large number of guest. They are narrowing it down. I "think" the wedding will be in the fall sometime. I do know that the wedding is going to be beautiful!!!!

We are all so excited for Ashley and Justin...they are a beautiful couple and I could not ask for a better daughter-in-law!!! I also could not ask for better in-laws for my son Justin...I love love love Ashley's family!!

Well no one is more impatient for the wedding then Addison. She keeps asking when she gets to be a flower girl...is it almost time??? What color is my dress? How much bling (Ashley told her that her dress would be loaded with bling) will it have?

Last night Addison said...
Addison "when do I get my flower girl dress"
Mommy "um, once we know the wedding date, colors and Ashley picks out your dress"
Addison :::sigh::: " well alright." ::pause:: "Do you think you can just buy me a flower girl dress now and I can practice".

I choose not to place "DIS", in my ability~Robert M. Hensel

2011-01-23T12:11:00.001-06:00

I am so bad about posting on my blog. So much going on around here and I get behind. I love Stopping by Stefanie's "Sunday Snapshot" and I always say...next week (then I forget)..but not this week!!!! Make sure to click on the tab below and visit all the Sunday Snapshot post.

I have been wanting to write an update on our little Lumpster (who would like to be called Frankie, so take note) for quite some time now. Getting Livi to allow me to photograph her can be challenging..she is usually way too busy to stop for a picture. I took advantage of a fun day in the snow...and "Frankie" was very willing to stop and give me a cheese every now and then.

This update is long....very long!!!

I have talked many times about Livi's SPD. Sensory is still a challenge for Livi but we have discovered some other little challenges as we move on down the path of life. Livi has always had quite the temper and her mood swings can be fierce!!! She was originally diagnosed with ADHD/SPD. The ADHD meds made Livi's moods worse. Then she was diagnosed with a mood disorder (bi-polar) and they started to treat her with meds. Then decided that they were wrong about that diagnose. We have tried all kinds of different medications to help Livi focus in school.....and we have tried everything under the sun to help Livi sleep at night (she has not slept through the night since coming in to our family at 5 months old). I feel like it's been a real trial and error around here. But, truth is, there are no real test for a lot of diagnose that have been given to Livi...so it truly is trial and error. I think we are having more error LOL At least we are ruling things out right and we have an awesome doctor : )

Recently we were lucky enough to get some wonderful information regarding Livi's biological parents that has helped...and it was good news as far as hereditary illnesses. So now what? Well, we have an appointment with a children neurologist for an EEG. We are hoping to get some answers...especially relating to sleep. Livi had a seizure when she was 2 years old. The doctors now feel that she may be having silent seizures or petit mal seizures which could be part of her mood issues.

Livi is in second grade and loves school! In the past I have written about the wrath of Mommy at Livi's IEP meetings. I admit to being an ass any time the words "Contained Classroom" came up. I made it VERY clear that was NOT going to happen...I would pull Livi out of school so fast their heads would spin off. I'm sure I offended a few a long the way but I reminded everyone in the meeting I was not their to be their friend...I was their for my daughter and to be her greatest advocate. As of her last two IEP meetings, Contained Classroom no longer comes up in conversation. We are very lucky to have an incredible team of therapist and teachers working with Livi this year. We communicate on a daily basis. Livi also has the best aide!!! She works very hard with Livi and makes sure that I get an update every day on how Livi's day went. Livi is in a normal classroom setting but placed in LD Math and Reading. She actually does very well in math and is really improving in reading. Livi's LD teacher ROCKS!!!!! I have worked hard with the school to minimize Livi's homework and allow for me to bring in tools at home that I feel are more geared towards my little right brained girl. The school has been awesome and has given me a lot of freedom!!!! What we do for Livi at home we do for Addison also. First of all, Addison loves to do what her sister is doing and second of all we don't want anyone feeling singled out in this house.

We have set Livi up with a desk and she got a new laptop a few weeks ago(Addison got Livi's old laptop). I set accounts up (for Livi and Addison) for brainpop and Time4learning (both are fabulous programs). Livi is able to work on all subjects and I get reports sent to my email on how both girls are doing. Time4learning (which is actually a homeschool program) is set up for children that are visual..and Livi learns best with visual aides!!! We purchased both girls ipads and they are able to get the text to speech on many books. It has really helped Livi and Addison with their reading. We also discovered two leapfrog programs...tag and explorer. Both are wonderful!!! The girls think they are playing games on explorer, when they are really learning (how fun is that). Tag has many many books to choose from...Livi can read along with the book or when she gets stuck on a word she places the pen(tag) on the word and it sounds the word out.

With everything in place this year we see HUGE changes in Livi's reading, math and her speech...oh my word...her speech!!! It's awesome!!!

I love this little girl so much...life has not been an easy road for any of us. I often throw myself a pity party... we don't travel with Livi (she does not sleep) and that means we don't travel together as a family. That gets depressing. I do travel with my boys and aunt, but I sure look forward to the day we can go as a family some where. The melt downs are hard..they are not just crying meltdowns..they are strong ones...the kicking, screaming, hitting herself, sometimes leading to a nose bleed and add in the fact she is 8 years old and getting hard for me to pick up...it gets tiresome. The ugly words out of Livi's mouth.. "I hate you", "no body loves me" etc... it wears on you...so I admit, I cry sometimes like a baby..but I am human and I do break down.

The good news is this...we are doing so much better. Livi has been on some new medication for the ADHD (non stimulant) and we see so much improvement. We still see some melt downs but I would say we are 70% better!!! I see the light at the end of the tunnel and I feel optimistic!!! I talked about our appt. with the neuro and I am really excited about that...getting some information from the birth parents cleared up a few things...and you know what...I love Livi and she is mine...all MINE and we are going to get through this!! We as a family are going to make sure she is healthy and happy if I have to die trying LOL Mother's do not give up on their children!!!

"No snowflake ever falls in the wrong place."

Author: Unknown

I am really lucky to have the most incredible supportive Family. My boys never judge, they sympathize and often remind me that Livi was born like this and it is not her fault. My dad is awesome!!! He is so patient with Livi and never looses his gentle way with her. Often feeling sorry for all of us during an outburst (including him LOL). Sometimes even grown up daughters need their Daddy to say "It's going to be ok". My husband rocks!!! Thank God we have such a strong marriage and have been married forever. We're like a tag team LOL When he see's me at my last wit, he says "Tag baby I'm it" and he takes over...then there is Kenny (my 23 year old). Kenny is home from ISU and has 3 classes left to graduate, so he is finishing online. Thank you God for Kenny. Kenny steps in at the right moment...when he see's me breaking down, exhausted and about ready to throw in the towel.. he just shows up..with that optimistic attitude and gently says"Mom, what can I do to help" or "Mom, you need to get out of the house, I got Livi". Lately he has nearly begged Ken and I to have a date night...yes I'm serious, begged. He just knows when we need it. I know what your thinking..he is pretty darn incredible and did I mention his girlfriend Amanda rocks!!! She is awesome with both girls...she has the most gentle voice and mannerism. My girls love her..Livi refers to Amanda as "My Amanda". Kenny knows exactly how to handle Livi and she listens to him (most of the time).

I was not going to share as much information but I feel if I can help one person out there like the many many people that have helped me...then it was worth the risk of posting and getting some negative comments. I have googled so much over the past year and come across many articles and post..most written by moms just like me. The information was golden for me. So why not try to do the same for some one else. Sometimes being honest and writing from the heart is hard..sharing things like this is not easy. We often like to cover up what is really going on in the home...I pretty much have lived my life like an open book but I also feel protective of my children. I have tried to find the fine line between good information and privacy. I hope I have done that.

""It may not always be easy,
But it will always be worth it.""

Author: Unknown

Mid Year update-Addison

2011-01-08T22:43:00.000-06:00

Addison is such a sweet, smart and funny little girl. I absolutely love the age 5. They are so brutally honest at 5 and they seem to take in the world around them. Addison ask a lot of questions!!!! She wants answers to everything!!!! Sometimes I admit to saying "ok, Mommy needs a time out, can we continue this session in about 30 minutes". I do however try to remember that they grow up so fast and one day I will be the one asking fifty billion questions and she will be the one telling me that she needs a time out...in other words...get lost Mom!!!

Winter is so cold here and I don't get out much with my camera. I have been buying backdrops and floors from a wonderful company called Photo Prop Floors and Backdrops. The woman makes beautiful backdrops and the floors are gorgeous!!! I can still use Natural Light if I time it right. Addison is always eager to be my model...Livi not so much! Livi will usually say "ok" and then tell me she is busy and she will pose for me later. One day I hope to have her sit still for me : )

Addison is doing very well in Kindergarten. She loves school and has lot's of friends. She is slowly becoming less shy and we love watching her bloom.

Addison is reading simple books, adds and subtracts simple problems, counts to 100 and spells pretty darn good for 5.

Addison loves to draw and is very detailed in her drawings. She loves crafts and is usually found sitting at her craft table cutting, gluing and creating something. Addison loves making up stories and creating books.

Addison loves her ipad. She drags it every where with her. I think it has really helped her with her reading.

Addison loves to dance and sing. Her favorite singer is Taylor Swift and her favorite song is "Speak Now". I love hearing her sing...she just belts it out like no one else is in the room...oh to be so confident!!! What a wonderful quality to have don't you think : )

Addison has quite the collection of American Girl dolls and plays with them all the time. She loves her Moxie dolls and barbies. I love standing outside her bedroom door and listening to her play. I love the conversations she has with her dolls. I used to love listening to the boys pretend play. Something about the animation in their voice and the giggles/laughter are the best!!!! I try to soak in every minute of their childhood.

Some funny Addison lines....

Addison knocking on the bathroom door (daddy was showering)
Addison "Daddy can I come in"
Daddy (hoping for a peaceful shower) "In a minute I'm showering"
Addison "oh you don't want me to see you naked"
Daddy (laughing and thinking who cares really) "yeah that's right so give me a minute"
Addison"ok.(one second later) you got your underwear on now"
Daddy "Addison, can I just have a minute of peace please"
Addison (huffing under her breath) "Man alive, you are no fun"

Addison "Mommy can I go on a cruise with you one day"
Mommy "sure you can, why do you want to go"
Addison "so I can see starfish"
Mommy "you don't have to go on a cruise to see starfish, we can go to the beach"
Addison"Yeah, but I hear the food is pretty good on the ship"

Addison"Daddy, how old will I be when you die"
Daddy "well I guess that all depends"

Daddy "what do want for breakfast Addison"
Addison "aaahhhh, Pancakes"
Daddy "we don't have pancakes, how about waffles"
Addison "How come you never take me to hip hop any more"
Daddy "Hip Hop??? You mean ihop"
Addison "Oh yeah, I forgot"

My silly little girl is growing like a weed!!!!! I love watching her grow. Time is flying by so fast and Addison continues to spread her wings and soar.

Resolutions & Friendship

2011-01-03T09:33:00.000-06:00

I used to make resolutions like most..."I'm going to lose weight", "I'm going to pray more", "I'm going to not say bad words". Seriously, for me, it never stuck and I ended up being disappointed in myself. I stopped making resolutions a few years back and instead made life changes. I focused on things that I felt would make me a better person. I think the hardest for me was the year I decided I was going to smile at anyone that walked towards me or made eye contact with me. It was'nt hard for me to smile at strangers, it was hard when they didn't smile back LOL You know, when someone gives you that "what the hell are you looking at lady" look. But...and there is a but here, it was selfishly about me...making me a better person. So I stuck with it and it got easier. Now if I smile at someone and they don't smile back I feel like that's their problem. It makes me happy to smile so I do it.

Last year I decided to focus on creating, my photography and what ever projects I could come up with that would allow me creative freedom. I felt that there was so much going on around our family with Livi and my mom's failing health that being able to sit down and freely create would be good for me. I have to say it's been one of the best things I have ever done for myself. I have met some amazing people along the road that have become friends.

This year I am focusing on friendship and of course family. I need to find more time to stop by blogs, comment more on FB and reconnect on my yahoo groups. I need to make sure the people that have been good friends to me know that "they" matter. Because they do matter!!! I have appreciated the support from so many of you with my mom and I need to make sure "you" know how much I appreciate it.

I need to focus on the friendships around me. I need to make more time for those that have been there for me. I need to make sure that my friends know how appreciated they are and spend more time focusing on them.

I need to make more time for me and my husband. Sometimes you get lost in the shuffle of life and forget that it's important to have a date night. I am lucky enough to have a son (Kenny) who reminds us often that Mommy and Daddy need to get out LOL Thank you Kenny for the push...I love you!!! And did I mention when Kenny shoves us out the door it's always with a babysitting offer...I know, I know, lucky me!!!

Last week, my good friend Steffie made a trip down to Chicago with her husband and kids. While daddy took her boys for the day, Steffie and her two daughters met up with me, Addison and Ashley (who took the day off work to spend time with Steffie and her girls). We had a fabulous time!!! We met at the American Girl store. Miss Fia purchased her first AG doll...well she was supposed to purchase one for her and one for her new sister Olivia (coming home from China soon) but Miss Fia found a second doll along the way for herself...and come on (as Aunt Colleen said) every doll needs a friend..and since Mommy is a ~~sucker~~ warm hearted ~~sucker~~ person she bought the second doll for Fia.

After our AG experience we went for lunch. Justin met us for lunch, he will go any where for a free meal. After lunch we headed down Michigan Ave. to the Coach store. This was Emmie's first time in Chicago and she couldn't wait to go to the BIG coach store. She was hysterical to watch!!! Like her sissy...she went for one purse, but she quickly found a second purse, gloves and I think glasses...and since Mommy is such a ~~sucker~~ warm hearted ~~sucker~~ person she let her buy it all. I was amused!!!

Addison and Fia hit it off instantly. Once they decided to hold hands, they never let go. They were so animated in their conversations. They chatted about everything under the sun. The highlight was when they exchanged phone numbers.

While Emmie made her way through Coach like a pro, Ashley and I were entertained by the little ones. They were trying on scarves, dancing in the mirror and pretending to be grown-ups. People around us were amused by their cuteness!!!

Pictures courtesy of Steffie...I ~~stole~~ borrowed them for my blog.

It's not often in life that you come across someone that has a generous heart like Steffie. Steffie is one of those people that is pure...no BS with her. I love her for that. She knows me well and is accepting of me as is...never telling me to change and never judging...but she will be the first to call you on something that she feels is not right LOL When I'm with her I feel like I have known her forever. I am so excited for Steffie and her family...she will soon be traveling to China to bring home Olivia. I know how excited they all are and I can't wait to meet Miss Olivia.

I refuse to view 2010 as an awful year...I would not be where I am today if there were not past years...both good and bad : ) Each year that passes is a lesson learned. I am looking forward to 2011...so much family excitement coming our way!!! Ashley and Justin planning their wedding, my European cruise with Chris, Kristen and Tyler and what ever exciting adventures life throws my way!!!!

Happy 2011!!!!!!

Christmas at the Nut House

2010-12-28T22:56:00.000-06:00

Our Christmas didn't start off very well. The morning of Christmas Eve my mom woke up with blue hands. My dad rushed her to the ER. Jeanine (my aunt) and I followed. We spent most of Christmas Eve in the ER with my mom praying that God allows her to come home and spend time with the family. I felt so sorry for her. My mom is so frail and they had trouble getting blood from her. She has trouble with speaking but she was able to get "no more" out of her mouth. It broke my heart.
I did find Santa Claus wondering the halls of the ER and brought him in to Mom's room.The look on my Mom's face was priceless. Santa held my moms hand and I expressed to him "Santa all we want this Christmas is to get mom well enough so that we can bring her home to her family" Santa looked at my mom (with tears in his eyes) and said "I think we can arrange that". We did bring mom home on Christmas Eve. Way to go Santa!!! I'm a believer!!!! Mom walked in Christmas Eve to room full of love!!! Everyone was waiting for the star of the night to arrive. Yep, Grandma Georgia is a rock star in our house.

Christmas morning the girls woke up early(very early) and ran down stairs before anyone could stop them LOL Santa brought the girls an American Girl tree house, new AG beds and AG kitchen sets. Chris, Justin, Jesse and Mike arrived around 7:30AM. Once the boys arrived the house went in to full blown craziness!!!!! We unwrapped for hours!!! Livi left some presents wrapped for the next day (she got tired I guess LOL).

I didn't take many pictures. I wore the Santa hat and passed out gifts...every once in a while Livi took control and handed out gifts....one for you, three for me, one for you, five for me...you get it.

Grandpa gave each of the girls a new American Girl doll. Addison got lot's of Moxie dolls and gear to go with them. Both girls got lot's of DS games, Wii games, board games and tons of other stuff!!! Livi's favorite Wii game is the baby mama game. She loves it!!!!!

The boys made out!!! Snowboarding gear, new TV, clothes, flip camera's, fancy controllers for the TV (I think that's what it was for) amongst other stuff.

One of the sweetest moments was when Chris gave my mom a leopard bathrobe. It's so hard for my mom to show emotion due to the poor muscle tone in her face, but man was she smiling when she saw the "hussy" robe. It was one of those moments where everyone stopped what they were doing. We couldn't believe the big ole' smile plastered on Mom's face. It was awesome!!!!!

My cousin Mike (Jeanine's oldest son) spent a lot of time sitting next to my mom. Just rubbing her shoulder and giving her love. It was so touching. My mom truly loved!!!!!

Chris' best friend Josh did the illustrations for a book that he and a friend wrote. It's a children's book and it addresses OCD in a fairytale setting. Chris gave each of the girls a copy of the book with a special rhyme dedicated to them in the back of the book. I got a book too from Chris "Mac Book for Dummies". : ) I ordered a new Mac a few days before Christmas and apparently my son knows me very well...

Justin and Ashley bought me an engagement charm for my Pandora bracelet (I love it).

Although I love my new backdrops, Kelly Moore bag and other beautiful gifts from my family...the most touching gifts of all were the pictures my girls drew and wrapped, Livi's money jar that was wrapped with a bow and addressed to me and a old beautiful white eraser that Livi wrapped and tied up with ribbon(yep for me, I know they spoil me). It truly does not get any better then that!!!!

It was hard to say good-bye to Jeanine and her boys. My Mom's health is so critical right now(she weighs 75 lbs). I know that Jeanine was not sure in her heart if she was truly saying "good-bye" to her sister. It was hard watching my aunt cry as I drove her to the airport. The love my mom and Jeanine have for each other is very special.

Our Christmas was full of love, humor and sadness. Most of all, Christmas at the Nut House was full to the brim with Family!!!! There is nothing better then that!!!!!!

Holidays From Our Home To Yours!!!

2010-12-23T13:04:00.000-06:00

I wanted wish everyone a Happy Holidays!!!! This will be my last post until after the holidays. I have family flying in today and our house will be over flowing with people but they are all here to "love" on my mom.

My mom's sister Jeanine and her boys are coming in today to spend time with my mom. I am sad to report that my mom's health is failing rapidly. Eating is difficult and we know that in the end that will be what takes her life. The trouble is getting her mouth open to eat. Then there is the chewing...it's just very difficult. My dad does an incredible job of caring for my mom.

Watching my mom fail is not easy. So many times I want to tell her something exciting or sad. She is non-responsive. It's just very sad. I know my mom well and she does not want to live like this. We are selfish for wanting her here. That I know. We love her so much and to be honest, I don't know how I will go on with out her. I cannot imagine life with out my mom and dad.

One night my mom was looking straight a head and she said as clear as day "I can see the gates, I don't want to go through them, not now." Last night my mom said several times "no I don't want to die. I don't want to die". My dad said it was like she was talking to someone. I know I may be reading in to something here but I have to stop and wonder...is she talking to God? Does she see him? You hear so many stories about people seeing God before passing. I know my mom is a very religious woman..I just wonder. I pray that my Mom is able to attend her grandson's wedding...something she talked about often wanting to do.

We have so much excitement in our family this Christmas. Justin and Ashley getting engaged!!!! This is such an exciting time for them and for both of our families. We will have our entire family together this year for Christmas (Jeanine, Jesse and Mike). It's been years since we have spent Christmas together and I am really looking forward to the laughter, yelling and teasing (as we are known for). We're Italian so the house is loud!!! I am blessed beyond measure!!!

May your Christmas be filled with love and family!!! May you find joy in what surrounds you!!! Remember the most important part of the holidays is not what's under the tree...but what's right in front of you!!! Enjoy time with your family and friends. Make sure they know exactly how special they are to you!!!

"You can dance anywhere, even if only in your heart."

2010-12-19T23:36:00.000-06:00

Last week was parents night at Addison's dance studio. The kids were so adorable to watch!!! The photographer in me wanted to get up and find a better angle, shot etc...but the mommy in me wanted to stay seated, snap a few pictures and take it all in...The Mommy always wins over the photographer. I loved watching Addison dance. She loves it so much!!!

"Dance is just discovery, discovery, discovery."

Author: Martha Graham

"Dancing is like dreaming with your feet!"

Author: Constanze

"Dance is a poem of which each movement is a word."

Author: Mata Hari

Celebrate!!!!!!

2010-12-14T10:51:00.000-06:00

We had the most exciting weekend!!!! On Saturday Addison and I took the train in to the city. We went to lunch at a very fancy spancy restaurant (Addison's words not mine)where Addison was able to practice her wonderful table manners. She is very good about placing the napkin in her lap and being very polite. After lunch we took a ~~looney car~~ taxi to see "The Nutcracker". Daddy hooked us up with incredible seats ( a few rows back from the stage). Good thing we arrived early because the Joffrey Ballet does a fabulous job of setting up several fundraising booths full of ~~junk~~ goodies for us ~~suckers~~ parents to buy. Addison bought two Nutcrackers (one for her and one for Livi) and an autographed toe shoe that was worn by the Sugar Plum Fairy in the show.

We had a wonderful time together. It's nice to spend that one on one time with your children. It was purely magical to watch my little one light up when the show started!!! Her eyes sparkled with excitement!!!

After the Nutcracker, Daddy picked us up and we headed to a dinner club that we belong to downtown. I had reserved a room and had it all set up with tea roses, candles and Champagne...why you ask??? Because I knew that my son Justin was at the restaurant on top of the Hancock Building proposing to his girlfriend Ashley. She said "YES".

The happy couple headed to the dinner club. Ashley thinking that they were going to dinner at the club to celebrate their engagement...but what she didn't know.

It was like an FBI secret mission...Ashley's parents, brother, grandma, best friend Jill, my son Chris, his girlfriend Kristen, Addison, Ken and me of course were all there waiting to celebrate!!! When the happy couple arrived at the front desk to check in for dinner they were told to wait one minute while they checked on their table. The party planner called my husband's cell phone to let us know "They were e on their way". Everyone was in their places and when Ashley opened the door to the room it was one big SURPRISE and lot's of happy tears!!!

Ken and I feel so blessed...not only are we lucky enough to be getting a beautiful, kind and loving daughter in law but we are blessed with a whole new family that will soon be joining ours!!! How many people can say that? We adore Ashley's family!!! And it's nice that they happen to live about 5 minutes from us. We will be spending New Years Eve together and I truly cannot wait to spend time with them again!!!

The Happy Couple!!!!!!!!! Are they not stunning together!!!!

Addison was in her glory. Not only does she get to be a flower girl but she adores Ashley's family. She loved Uncle Marty (Ashley's Brother) and found him to be pretty funny!!!! She loved the attention from everyone and was feeling pretty special as you can see from the pictures. Addison said to me later that night "I love my new Grandma". She loved the attention that Ashley's Grandmother was giving her...she was so sweet with Addison.

We are still floating on cloud nine in our house. We cannot wait for the big day!!! 2011 is going to be a fabulous year!!!!! Bring it on!!!!

Birthday Bash & 5 year Homecoming!!!!

2010-12-10T08:55:00.000-06:00

Yes today is my birthday!!! I'm having a Birthday Bash and Giveaway on my photography blog Chasing Dreams Photography if you would love to join in!!!

5 years ago today my birthday became very special to me and to so many in our family...because on December 10, 2005 Tyler and I had arrived from China...carrying the most beautiful birthday gift a mother could ever ask for, my sweet sweet Addison. Addison is my most precious birthday gift ever and I will never forget that day...on December 10, 2005 Addison met her forever family for the very first time and our journey has been both beautiful and magical!!!

Tomorrow Addison and I will be heading downtown to the Joffrey Ballet to see "The Nutcracker". I don't know who is more excited about this...Mommy or Addison!!! Daddy bought us AWESOME tickets. We are a few rows back from the stage. This will be a yearly adventure for Addison and I. Addison loves going to her ballet and tap class and talks about wanting to perform on the big stage one day...and she is good, the best in the class, just ask her : ) We have a new dress (actually a few because she couldn't decide what she wants to wear LOL), new shoes, new hair accessories and new pearls. We will be taking the train in to the city early, eat lunch some where very special and maybe do a little shopping on Michigan Mile (nothing like the Mile at Christmas time). We hope to take a stage coach ride around town and take in all the beauty of Christmas that will be surrounding us.
I saw the Nutcracker about 10 years ago with my mom. She was a ballerina when she was young and had talked about wanting to see the Joffrey Ballet perform. I surprised her with tickets one year. It was magical going with my mom and I will hold on to that memory for the rest of my life. Shortly after wards my mom was diagnosed with Parkinsons.

Happy Five Years Home my sweet sweet girl!!! You have blessed our family beyond our wildest dreams...you seem to touch the soul of everyone you meet!!!! You are the best birthday gift ever!!!!!

Thanksgiving Feast With Livi

2010-12-05T18:47:00.000-06:00

I had the honor and privilege of joining Livi for her Thanksgiving feast at school. I am the room coordinator this year for Addison's class but I try to make it to Livi's events too. I love being involved in their school.

Livi was ready to chow down!!!! She is on the little side compared to her classmates but man can she eat!!!! She especially loved the pumpkin pie!!!! I was so proud of her for trying the dressing and green beans. As you can see from the pictures, Livi was a Pilgrim.

Alright this is not the best picture of my little Pilgrim LOL she is giving me a "duh" look LOL but seriously, she was waiting so patiently. And that cute young woman to the right is Livi's teacher Mrs. Timony...did I mention that she rocks!!!! Oh and she is married to a man that my Justin was friends with in high school...is that too funny!!! I think I may feel really old...We are so lucky to be going to such an incredible school!!! I mean really lucky. I could go on and on about the staff at Livi's school and how much they truly love and care for Livi. They have been my rock this year...And Livi's teacher is incredible!!!! I wish we could keep her for the next three years that Livi is at the school...she is totally cool and Livi thinks she is wonderful and pretty darn funny.

This is Livi's friend Perla. Livi just adores Perla... did you know that they both have the "Bieber Fever" and they love the store Justice...need I say more : ) Collecting Justin Bieber shirts, bracelets, magazines etc seems to be a hobby for Livi these day...reminds me of my David Cassidy days (am I dating myself).

I'm very behind on post and trying to play catch up...at the rate I'm going my Christmas post will be up in June...: )

Happy 5 Years !!!!!

2010-11-30T00:00:00.014-06:00

5 years ago today I held my sweet sweet Addison for the very first time. I cannot even describe in words what that felt like. She was the missing piece to the puzzle....I felt whole and complete. It felt so natural and right. I loved her so much and finally holding her in my arms and knowing that she was safe...it was probably one of the most emotional moments of my entire life.

"Today I Kissed an Angel

Today I kissed an angel

I knew it from the start

the first time my angel smiled at me

I gave away my heart

today I kissed an angel

this angel child of mine

though not of my creation

my child by God's design

today I kissed an angel

my heart is dancing wild

a family, by a miracle

blessed by this angel child"

Author: Unknown

Here are a few pictures from our time in China. I absolutely love the picture of the three of us. I love how Addison is looking at Tyler. Tyler was instantly in love with Addison and Addison was pretty smitten with Tyler. To this day Tyler can often be found laying on Addison's bed talking to her and making her laugh. They have such an incredible bond with one another.

Addison was sick for the first few days while in China. I was so happy that I could be there to cuddle her through those difficult days. We spent several days in our hotel room trying to nurse our baby girl back to health. Tyler was a wonderful help. He ran to the store for me, he helped prepare her bottles and he ran out to get all our meals. He was so awesome and really stepped up to the plate to help!!!! Addison loved to snuggle up to me and she seemed to fit so perfectly in my arms. Addison is still a very cuddly little girl. She loves to be hugged and kissed.

The last few days of our trip Addison was feeling better and we were able to get out a bit. Our group took a tour to a nearby Temple to have our babies blessed. Tyler and I lit an incense and said a prayer for our sweet baby girl. The Monk gave a blessing and it was such a beautiful ceremony.
Our group took the famous Red Couch pictures. It was so much fun!!! There were 8 babies in all and getting them all lined up and making sure that they didn't fall off the couch...it was pretty funny!!!!! I love how Mia (far to the right) is asleep and using my Addison as a prop to keep from tipping over LOL. I love that our group is still close. We have a very special and unique bond.

Addison it's hard to believe you have been home for 5 years. You have blessed our family in more ways than you could imagine and we thank God for you every day!!!! You are a sweet, smart, funny, talented, beautiful and loving little girl. You are our gift from heaven.

I am a lucky Mommy....... We are a lucky family!!!!! I love you to the moon and back!!!!!

Friday Funny

2010-11-19T22:03:00.000-06:00

Let's face it kids are funny!!! I used to be so good about writing down all the funny things that my kids said. I love looking back and reading all the funny little comments that were made or things that they have done. I admit to being a bit of a slacker lately. I decided that I'm going to make Friday my day to write down the funnies!!! Trust me, in this crazy house...there are plenty of Funnies to write down and they don't all come from the girls.

Addison "Mommy, Livi is going to marry Chris"
Mommy "yes I know, who are you going to marry"
(Grandpa walks in the door and hears our conversation)
Grandpa "maybe you are going to marry me"
Addison "nooooooooo Grandpa, I can't marry you"
Grandpa "I'm too tall"
Addison "no Grandpa, your too old".

Addison "grandpa do you know what happens when you turn 80"
Grandpa "hmnnnn, well, not sure what"
Addison "that's it, it's over, you go to heaven"

The girls are very excited for Christmas. Their list are a mile long. Addison carries around a pad and pen. When she see's something she wants on a commercial or in a magazine she ask us how to spell what ever it is she wants. She carefully writes on list and numbers each item.

Then there is Livi. Last night Livi was going through the toy catalog. When she found an item she wanted she ripped out the page. She then went in to my closet and got out a big envelope, stuffed it with the pages she had torn out and said "here you go, mail it to Santa. This is my list".

Not sure I have ever seen the wish list handled quite like this but then again...there is only one Livi in this world.

"And we should consider every day lost on which we have not danced at least once. And we should call every truth false which was not accompanied by at least one laugh."

Author: Unknown

Livi's Story-National Adoption Awareness Month

2010-11-18T20:50:00.001-06:00

This post is going to be raw and from the heart. Adoption isn't always easy and I feel there are way too many disrupted adoptions. I think it's important to educate ourselves "before" we adopt so that we are prepared for issues if they should arrive. A child is not a toy that can be tossed if things are not working out as planned. I'm not here to judge...I'm only here to share our story.... Livi's story.

Livi came to us at 5 1/2 months old and the adjustment was smooth. We loved her before we knew who she was. The excitement in our house while waiting for Livi was huge!!! After raising four boys, shopping for a little girl was so exciting!!!! I found myself doing things that I never did in my younger days of motherhood. I researched every product under the sun. I wanted to make sure that I had the best stroller, best car seat etc...plus it kept me busy during the wait.

"A new baby is like the beginning of all things - Wonder, Hope, a dream of possibilities."

Author: Edna J. Le Shan

Korea sends information during the waiting period from referral to arrival. We knew a little about Livi's life prior to coming home. We knew the medical issues that we were faced with....reflux. That was what we were told about a month after receiving her referral, our baby had reflux and needed to be on soy milk. They could of told me she had three heads at that point and it didn't matter, I loved her so much....she was ours!!!!!!

"We become part of the people we love, and they become a part of us."

Author: Unknown

We were not the only ones madly in love with our little girl....Livi quickly became the town baby. Coming in to a family with four grown brothers who were pretty well known through out the community (sports mainly) there were many many many excited people waiting to meet Livi. Livi went to several ball games, pep-rallys, and other fun high school functions. Livi quickly became the center of attention every where we went. let's face it, not too many parents at the high school had babies. The high school cheerleaders could not keep their hands off of her!!!! Livi was passed around like a hot potato in homecoming , prom and graduation pictures. Everyone wanted to pose with our sweet little bundle of joy!!!! Livi was the town baby and so so so loved!!!!!! One can never have enough love in their lives.

"Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero"

Author: Marc Brown

Then there is Chris and Livi. What can I say about these two. The bond was immediate. Chris will always have a special place in his heart for Livi and Livi only. From the moment he held her she became his baby. He loves her to pieces!!!!!

"A good laugh is sunshine in a house."

Author: William Thackeray

Livi is such a funny little girl. She has always been a goof ball. There were many little quirky things that we noticed with Livi at a young age. What we know now is that these were all signs of SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder). At the time we just laughed and thought what a funny little nut ball. Livi had low muscle tone and fell over her own feet...she was lovingly given the nick name "Lumpy" aka "Livi the Lump" aka "The Lumpster". When she fell she never cried, we thought she was tough, turns out it was all a part of her sensory.
Livi's speech was delayed. Potty training took forever and ever. The reflux that she had finally ended at 22 months....right around the time she decided she didn't like her bottle any more. I'm one of those moms that let's her babies keep their bottles, pacifiers and blankets until "they" are done...I think I drank mine until I was 4 years old...yep I could fill it myself : ) Livi held on to her paci aka "The plug" until she was 5 years old..she needed it. She was very oral. I admit I was sad when the plug went bye bye. She looked so cute with it in her mouth.

"If you think my hands are full, you should see my heart!"

Author: Unknown

I am a big believer in that God only gives us what we can handle. I admit to many days of asking God "what were you thinking". Livi's melt downs became more and more frequent. Having other children I knew the melt downs were not typical 2 year old melt downs... We knew there were issues but we were not exactly sure what they were. We finally got Livi in to speech at 2 years old and physical therapy. One thing was for sure, I was willing to do anything to help our baby girl...I loved her so much.

""If we couldn't laugh, we would all go insane!""

Author: Jimmy Buffett

Sleep was always an issue. I don't think to this day that Livi has ever slept the entire night. She wakes up frequently during the night but now that she is older she goes back to sleep. We went through years of exhaustion...

"Being a mother means that your heart is no longer yours; it wanders wherever your children do..."

Author: Unknown

Because we acted on our concerns and got help for Livi early on we are seeing huge improvements. Livi's speech is still a bit delayed but she is catching up at rapid speed. Livi gets lot's of help in school OT, ST and help in reading. We also have private OT for Livi. I can't imagine where Livi would be today with out help. I have been very blessed to have an incredible husband. We have a strong family and I do think that has made a big difference in dealing with the difficult days. It's important to surround yourself with friends that understand. and maybe even friends that are experiencing the same issues. I am lucky to have found both...great friends and friends who share some of the same battles with their children. Support groups are wonderful!!!! They are easy to find and great for information.

Adoption is a beautiful gift and I am so proud to be a part of the adoption community. When adopting you must keep in mind that often you will have very little if any information on the biological parents. You must be prepared for issues to arise and be ready to seek help if necessary. There is so much help out there and very easy to obtain. I think it's hard for any parent to admit that something is wrong...none of us want to see that. As a parent we are doing our children a disservice by not getting them the help they need. I am Livi's greatest advocate. I am always prepared for IEP meetings and come in with smokin guns. I am not there to make friends I am there to protect my daughter and to make sure she gets all the help she needs. I am lucky in that Livi's school is very supportive. They always listen to me and respect my decisions. Out of respect for my daughter's privacy I am not going to get in to all the issues that we are dealing with but I will say one thing...our little girl has come such a long ways!!!!!!!!

There is no doubt in my mind that Livi is exactly where she is supposed to be. God had a plan and he knew exactly what he was doing. I can't imagine my life with out our little "lumpster". She has the most beautiful smile and her giggle is pure joy. Livi is smart, funny, stubborn, creative and generous. I would give Livi the moon if I could. We are a very blessed family and don't think for a moment I forget that. Adoption cannot be viewed through rosey colored glasses....but neither can parenthood of any sort...you never know what life has in store for you.

Livi is our gift from God...we love her so much. There is nothing I wouldn't do for her...she has my heart and always will.

Happy Birthday Chris!!!!

2010-11-15T09:29:00.021-06:00

"My Son

Watching you grow has been the delight of my life. I look at you and wonder what dreams you will dream, what mountains you will climb, what joys you will have. I know there will be tears and struggles as well, but my prayer is that you will grow into the man you are meant to be."
Author: unknown

28 year ago I became a first time mom. I was 18 years old and to honest I felt very ready. As most of my friends dreamed about big careers, I dreamed about motherhood.

When I held my beautiful perfect little baby boy in my arms for the very first time I realized at that moment what life was really about. I knew at that moment why I was born. It was pure magic. To this day I remember that feeling like it was yesterday.

Chris has grown up to be an incredible man. I love the relationship that we have. Chris has a beautiful girlfriend who we adore and I couldn't be more proud of both of them.

Chris, Kristen, Tyler and I are headed to Barcelona in May for a 12 day cruise. We are all very excited!!! I love spending time with my boys and I'm really looking forward to 12 amazing days with Chris, Kristen and Tyler...not to mention a photographers dream vacation.

Happy 28th Birthday Chris...thanks for rocking my world!!!!!! I am so proud of you and love you very much!!!!!

Such Sweet Memories-Sunday Snapshot

2010-11-07T18:15:00.000-06:00

Today is Orphan Sunday...and November is Adoption Awareness Month. I will posting often this month. November is a special month for us in so many ways. My sons Kenny and Chris both have birthdays this month....We received our referral for Livi in the month of November and Addison was placed in my arms in November.
I cannot express in words how honored I feel to have been given the gift of adoption twice!!!My beautiful daughters Olivia Grace and Addison Claire rock my world!!!!

Our two adoptions were very different yet very much the same. Different in that Olivia was brought to us here in the United States at 5 months old and we traveled to China for 2 weeks to meet Miss Addison who was 8 1/2 months old. Olivia had been with a foster mom and Addison in a SWI. We had some information on Livi and none really on Addison. Our adoptions are very much the same in that we loved both of our girls way before we were given their referrals. The referral was the icing on the cake but the love was already there for both of them. It was a deep love....very very deep.

We were given a 2 day notice before Livi's arrival. I was ready for her...so so ready. I think I cried almost daily during the 3 months of waiting from referral to arrival. I stared at her picture all day long. I had her referral picture plastered every where!!!! Daddy was in love love love with his little girl that was many many miles away!!! He carried her referral picture around and showed anyone and everyone. I couldn't wait to hold her, kiss her and never let go. She was my baby...the baby girl that I dreamed about for so many years. Her arrival stirred up much excitement in our town. She had quite the welcoming at the airport. And the tears...oh my goodness, so many tears of happiness from all that were there. My boys could not of been more in love with their new sister. Chris was living in CA at the time and was not there for Livi's arrival but he flew in quickly to meet the sister that he had grown to love through photographs and updates. Kenny (who is not seen in the pictures below because he was our camera man) was smitten with Livi. Justin who was so quiet through out the wait surprised us all with his gentleness and love towards Livi the moment she was placed in his arms. Tyler who no longer wore the title " baby of the family" was in awe of Livi. He wanted to take her to school to share her with his class (and yes we did that, and the class actually had a little baby shower for Tyler with gifts). Olivia was the town baby. Livi bonded to us with no issues. She cuddled and smiled immediately. I know she was confused, of course she was...but the transition was so smooth. The first few nights she slept on top of me (that wasn't easy seeing that she weighed in at 16 1/2 lbs at 5 1/2 months old). I wanted her to feel my heart beat and I had the need to feel her against me. I don't think her feet hit the ground for the first year LOL

As you can see from the picture below, Olivia fit nicely in to brother Justin's arms...Livi had reflux and I think Justin wore most of the...how do I say this nicely...I can't...he wore most of the puke. He learned to keep extra shirts on hand.

Our Journey to Addison was a bit more challenging due to the length of travel. We knew once Livi arrived that we wanted to adopt again. With the big age difference in our children we wanted Livi to have a sister closer to her age and one that looked like her. Someone that she could share things with and someone that understood what it felt like to be adopted. Ken and I planned on traveling to China and having my mom stay at our home and care for Livi and the boys. My moms health became an issue and we needed to make some changes in travel plans. Tyler quickly volunteered to travel with me to China. With Livi becoming a handful (we did not have a SPD diagnose at the time) we felt it would be best that Daddy stayed with Livi and cared for her while Tyler and I traveled to China.

Tyler was an incredible travel companion. I could never have made the trip with out him.

Because I already knew the love of adoption, I was in love with Addison long before her referral. Once I had that referral picture in my hands, like Livi, I had her picture plastered every where...I had her face memorized!!! I could not get to China quick enough. I wanted to cradle her in my arms, touch her soft little cheeks and kiss those beautiful sweet rose bud lips. I was a little scared because I knew that she may not take to me...I was expecting her to grieve and to reject me. None of that happened. It was a smooth transition. Addison's transition was even smoother then Livi's. We had no sleep issues, she smiled and giggled right away..and loved loved loved when I kissed her a billion times all over her face and neck. I wanted to gobble her up!!! Of course there was grieving, Addison was taken away from everything that she ever knew...it was just not evident. Maybe because Addison was so sick when we got her. Looking back I thank God that I was there to hold her during that time and make sure that she was given medical attention. Tyler could not keep his hands off of Addison in China and he still can't. It's not unusual to hear Addison yelling from her room "Mom, Tyler won't get out of my bed, he says he is sleeping here". The two of them have an incredible bond!!!!

Both girls have come a long ways and have nicely grown in to their own.
Livi who is my computer nut. Love's anything electronic. Carries her IPad around and her game boy in her purse. She can whip my butt at Wii. Loves to play rock band with her brothers and has a wicked sense of style!!!! Livi has the best belly laugh!!!! Livi loves arts and crafts, and has a wonderful imagination!!!!
Addison is our girly girl. Loves to play barbies, could spend hours at the American Girl store, thinks shopping at CrewCuts and lunch is a perfect day and loves her ballet and tap class. A few weeks ago Daddy bought us (mommy and Addison) tickets to the Joffrey presentation of "The Nutcracker". We have wonderful seats and we are both very excited!!! Addison often falls asleep with the book in her hands and collects "Nutcrackers". She is also very excited about the movie that is coming out. I had to giggle because she recently bought (yeah right, I bought) two different dresses to wear to the ballet. A girl after my own heart...she can't decide what to wear LOL I will write and journal more on our special day in December (I hope to set up a special lunch before the ballet and carriage ride for us).
Addison's Gotcha Day is at the end of November and I will be sharing more of our journey to Miss Addison.

Please stop by my friend Stefanie's blog and view all the Sunday Snapshot post. : )

Loving my new look!!!

2010-11-04T21:03:00.000-05:00

I first want to thank my friend Rita for redoing my blog. If you are not aware who Rita is I think it's high time you get to know her...Rita is the woman behind The Coffeeshop Blog. Rita's blog rocks!!! So many freebies and tutorials!!! A person could spend hours enjoying all that Rita has to offer. Not only does Rita's blog rock...she rocks!!! Thank you sweet Rita for giving me a much needed face lift.

It's been a while since I last post. I took a much needed break from the bloggy world to focus on family and life changes. Since my last post we have had some major changes in our home. In late July my parents moved in to our home so that we could help my dad care for my mom. We have had a lot of adjustments and at times our house is crazy...but the rewards far out weigh the craziness. My girls are learning first hand how important it is to care for someone who is sick, to love unconditionally and to put someone else needs before theirs. My mom is not always sure who each one of us are but she seems to be very happy being here with us. We do an awful lot of laughing in this house...

This was a great month for me to get back to blogging. November is Adoption Awareness month, Addison's Gotcha Day, Livi's referral Anniversary, Chris and Kenny's birthdays....and Thanksgiving!!!

My new quote to live by

""Don't miss the magic of the moment by focusing on whats to come""
Author: Unknown

Under Construction

2010-10-21T09:25:00.003-05:00

This blog is currently under construction and will return soon : )

Happy 8th Birthday Livi

2010-09-06T19:09:00.021-05:00

We celebrated Livi's 8th Birthday in 60's/70's style!!! Of course the boys complained at first that I gave instructions on attire...but they came through as I knew they would. It was a blast!!!!!!

Happy 8th Birthday my little peace sign lovin' girl!!!!!!! Mommy had a blast today and your brothers, their girlfriends, sister, Daddy and Grandparents helped to make your birthday extra special...just like you!!! We love you!!!!!

Whoo hooo!!!! No more car seat!!!!!!!!! You're a big girl now!!!!!!

First Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-25T21:04:00.008-05:00

Addison was so excited to start Kindergarten!!! She got the teacher that she was hoping for!!!!!

"Today a reader, tomorrow a leader."
Author: W. Fusselman

We hope you have a wonderful year Miss Addison!!!!

First Day of Second Grade

2010-08-25T20:21:00.014-05:00

Dear Livi-Today you are starting second grade and you are so excited!!!! I know that you are going to have a wonderful year. I have seen so many changes in you this past summer. I am very proud of how far you have come.

Mommy will be right behind you rooting you on this year. I will always be your greatest advocate!!! I hope that you meet many new friends and that you have enjoy second grade and take away many wonderful memories.

I love you Livi....

Happy Birthday Mommy

2010-06-29T12:07:00.002-05:00

I love you so very much!!!!!!

Hump Day Check in!!!

2010-06-23T18:27:00.003-05:00

I have been busy working on a new set of textures and overlays that will be released next week. I am very excited about this next set. A few other exciting things in the works...

We have been enjoying summer so far. We have gone to the movies several times, spent way too much time in the Disney Store buying out everything Toy Story!! My girls love that movie!!!! Livi has always loved Toy Story 1 and 2..but she really liked 3!!!!! I sat through it twice : 0 at least the popcorn was good. : )

We (being me and the girls) spend a lot of time swimming,tanning (ok that would be me) and jamming to tunes. I am getting very good at playing mermaid and I'm a great announcer for the Livi and Addison water show.

My aunt and cousins are coming in a few weeks. We will leave for a cruise on July 10th and I am really looking forward to spending time with them. It will be nice to just relax for a week with no kids...I need a little mama time.

Addison continues to crack us up. She is a witty little thing that's for sure. Addison spends a lot of time writing (usually spelling words), drawing and playing with her barbies and AG dolls. I am hoping to take her this summer to the AG store for lunch and a little shopping trip.

The festivals have started, the local farmers market is open and soon "The Taste" will be hopping with people. I really love summer in Chicago!!!!!!

We have had some nasty storms this summer and currently we are under a tornado warning. One thing is for sure...summer is always exciting in the midwest!!!

"A father is his daughters first love and his sons first hero."

2010-06-21T22:16:00.013-05:00

"WALK WITH ME DADDY

WALK ALONGSIDE ME, DADDY, AND HOLD MY LITTLE HAND.
I HAVE SO MANY THINGS TO LEARN THAT I DON'T UNDERSTAND.

TEACH ME THINGS TO KEEP ME SAFE FROM DANGERS EVERY DAY.
SHOW ME HOW TO DO MY BEST AT HOME, AT SCHOOL, AT PLAY.

EVERY CHILD NEEDS A GENTLE HAND TO GUIDE THEM AS THEY GROW,
SO WALK ALONGSIDE ME, DADDY-
WE HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO."

Author: HELEN BUSH

We spent Father's Day in the pool and enjoying the nice weather. Justin and Chris came over and Tyler had the day off work. We missed Kenny but we knew that he had to stay down at school for rehearsal

Justin worked the grill and I cheated by hitting up the deli for salads and side dishes. I wanted to focus on family and not spend the day in the kitchen.

Livi and Addison spent most of the day in the pool. Livi made sure that everyone ate a snow cone..she is a pro snow cone maker!!!!

Addison kept us entertained by dancing to her favorite song "Redneck Woman" she is quite the hoot!!!

Livi wanted to show off her canonball skills but it seems a certain big brother could not help but give Livi a little shove with hit gnormous foot. After about the 5th time Livi was threatening to put Chris in time out!!! She was not amused..something about big brother's and teasing!!!

But as usual Miss L can't stay mad at Chris...these two have a really special bond...They truly adore each other!!!

And here he is...The Main Man himself surrounded by his biggest fans!!!!

I am pretty certain that Ken had a wonderful Father's Day!!!! I don't think he would want it any different then surrounded by the people that love him the most...his children and of course Me....

Happy Father's Day to the best Daddy ever!!!!!

Thankful!!! Very very thankful!!!

2010-06-18T11:48:00.039-05:00

I planned on writing a post yesterday for Thankful Thursday but missed my window (spent time away from the computer to play with my girls). So welcome to Thankful Friday!!!! And why am I so thankful....just look below!!! I'm thankful to have the most wonderful parents in the world!!!

I shared recently that my parents house sold very quickly. No sooner did I mention that and my mom stopped eating. She just shut down. My dad is having to basically force feed her. After speaking with the doctor last week my Dad heard two words that he has been fearing for quite some time "the end". When the Doctor said "they stop eating at the end" it sounds so final...talk about devastating!!!

The house was supposed to close the end of August. We of course were concerned that my Mom would not make it until August. We went in to panic mode and knew that we HAD to get Mom home...she needs to be surrounded by family. I am a big believer that a happy heart can heal so many things. I do realize that I cannot make my Mom better but I honestly feel that if I can get her here, surround her with love, maybe....just maybe....she will eat a little. And if that's not the case, at least we can make the rest of her as comfortable as possible, filled with love and family.

I have been overwhelmed by the kindness, prayers and emails from so many of you. And I do believe it was all the prayers that delivered a big change for us. The closing of the house was moved up by a month. Which means my parents will be here the end of July. My dad is continuing to hand feed my mom...he gives her all of her favorites. Often making several runs to Cracker Barrel because she loves their food!!! What a guy my dad is!!!

I admit that I was really angry at God. I was so angry with him and wondered why would he do such a thing to our family? We have been working so hard getting everything ready for Mom's arrival and now we hear "the end". That is just cruel and so not fair!!!

I have always believed that God has a plan. Often we don't understand the plan, but there are reasons behind it. I am still not sure what all the reasons are for my Mom being so sick. I'm still trying to process it all.

What I do know is this. My Mom was/is a very religious woman, never missing mass and often going several times a week (during her healthy days). She would be very upset with me if she knew that I was questioning everything that she taught me to believe in. My Mom would also be upset if she knew that I spend most of my days in tears, so badly wishing I had my mom back. I long for our morning conversations, calling her to vent about one of the kids, telling her to mind her own business when she offers advice and just general chit chat. I miss going to the movies, eating lunch out and buying her beautiful things...I miss her beautiful smile, her cool hands on my forehead when I complain if a headache, the smell of her perfume and her big personality. I miss her cooking, her creative hand painted sweatshirts that she called "art" and I called "hussy wear", I miss her instant coffee that for years she fooled my dad by adding it to a coffee pot of hot water and making him believe it was the real deal : ) I miss my mom so much. I am watching my Mom die and it is hard.

I am so grateful that my mom has been able to watch my boys grow, to nurture them with love and help shape their personalities. My boys love and adore their Grandma Georgia. Seeing how gentle and loving they are with her makes me very proud.

I am very grateful that my Mom has been with us through both adoptions. She was so excited when we announced to her and my dad that we were going to adopt a baby girl from Korea. The support she gave us was incredible. My flew in to meet Livi the day after she arrived from Korea. I love watching Livi care for her Grandma Georgia. Livi is so gentle with her and really watches out for Grandma.

I have decided to take a new direction, one that Mom would approve of. I am going to embrace this time that we have together. Rather then dwelling on what we no longer have, I am focusing on what we do have. We have love and lot's of it!!! My mom no longer can get her words out (between the lack of muscle in her mouth and the Alzheimer's) but I can see the love in her eyes. I can see the relaxation in her shoulders when she is around the family. There are many families that do not have love in their lives...but we do...how lucky are we!!! My glass is not half empty, in fact it's running over the top!!!

The picture below is how I will always picture Mom in my mind. She has always been a caretaker. It is now our turn as a family to take care of her. I hope that we can do as good of a job as she has done over the past 46 years of my life.

Giveaway!!!!!

2010-06-14T07:04:00.002-05:00

Make sure to swing on over to my photography blog and check out the exciting giveaway from Sophia Jane Boutique.

Addison's Dance Recital

2010-06-12T21:06:00.014-05:00

Today was Addison's very first Ballet Recital. She has been talking about this day since she started ballet back in September.

Addison has talked mostly about the flowers that she is supposed to receive after the recital. Of course they are supposed to be roses and she will need one bouquet from each of her brothers. Addison had it all figured out.
So this morning I ran out to the florist to order 5 bouquets of roses...and I was going to get them all in different colors. I had all kinds of ideas in my brain of how I wanted the roses to look!!! I walked in to the floral shop and spotted some very beautiful bouquets of roses mixed with daisy's. I told the lady behind the counter that I would take 5 of the beautiful bouquets of roses that were in the case and she told me no I wouldn't...those were for a wedding. Hmnnnnnn..ok then I would like you to make me 5 bouquets of roses just like the ones in the case......the nice lady said "well, let's see how many roses we have left"..........WHAT!!!!!!! So, the very nice lady counted the roses that they had left and there were 19 roses. I said "well can you check the back please, that won't cut it, I have a 5 year old ballerina that is counting on big bouquets of roses". At this point I'm thinking to myself, am I not in a flower shop???? The very nice lady (who I was thinking was not so nice any more) said that they only had 19 roses and all the other roses in the case, including all the other long stem roses(that looked like they were available) were for the wedding...so I said "Ok, how much are they paying you for those roses, I'll give you double". The nice lady gave me a dirty look and no longer was a nice lady...she turned in to the evil floral lady who had absolutely no sense of humor (if she only knew I wasn't kidding). We settled on the 19 roses (it was either that or I had to jump the bride and steal her beautiful floral arrangements) split into 5 groups adding in some daisy's and what ever else was left over after the wedding party cleared out the entire store!!!!

The Rain poured down hard and the thunder was loud...but nothing could stop the sunshine that my sweet little ballerina brought to our family today!!!!

We had a slight change in plans. My parents were supposed to be here for the recital and my dad was going to watch Livi but since they are not here yet big brother Chris stayed with Livi. Justin, Ashley (Justin's girlfriend), Tyler, Kristen (Chris' girlfriend), Daddy and Mommy waved and clapped for our little ballerina butterfly. We were all so proud of her!!!

The little clip below is actually from the dress rehearsal today. I had no idea that we couldn't film during the show so I was not too worried about doing a good job on filming during the dress rehearsal. The show was much better and I have to admit it was even funnier...the little ones have a habit of running in to each other and I find them amusing. Addison was a bit scared during the dress rehearsal but she smiled during the actual performance...and I think it helped that we made fools of ourselves and smiled and waved very big just so that she knew we were there (yeah so we have no class, but it made my little butterfly feel more at ease). If you want to watch the clip you can scroll down and turn off my blog music.

The light was horrible so the pictures are not real great. I do have more that I will process but for tonight this is it!
This picture cracks me up!!!! Tyler was telling Addison how good she was...and I'm sure that she was the star of the show (she truly believes that since that is what we have all told her). I love how you only see flowers.

Tyler, Justin, Daddy, Ashley, Kristen and Miss Ballerina Butterfly in the center! Gee do you think we could be any prouder!!!!

And here she is....the star of the ballet!!!! Our little ray of sunshine!!!!!! Miss Addison the Ballerina Butterfly.

When Daddy tucked Addison in tonight she said "Daddy, today was a very big day for me".

Thank you sweet Addison for adding so much joy and happiness to our lives!!!!

Schools Out for Summer!!!!

2010-06-08T12:07:00.024-05:00

It's official...we have a Kindergartner and a Second Grader in the house!!!! School's out for summer (are you singing a little Alice Cooper along with me). We are so ready for summer!!!!

My parents sold their house (yep in one week) and they will be arriving here on Thursday. The house closes in August. The hardwood floors are in,the trim was finished up today and the painters are working hard to get everything done by the end of the week. I have the company coming to measure for shutters and I'm in search for a company that has nice drapery...any recommendations? I hit up PB over the weekend and bought new bedding for my parents room, need to pick up a rug (so my mom doesn't slip on the hardwood floors when getting out of bed) and looking for some nice artwork for over their bed. I tried to make their room light and happy. We will be moving forward with the downstairs bathroom (putting in a new shower that will accommodate my mom's needs), kitchen remodel and laundry room....but I think we will do it after summer vacation is over. We need some wind down time....OK I need some wind down time. : )

My Aunt Jeanine (my mom's sister) will be coming in July along with her two sons Jesse and Mike. Her son's will be staying downtown with Chris and Justin and Jeanine will be staying with us. They want to spend some time with my mom. Jeanine will be with us for about 5 days and then we (Jeanine, me and her boys) will be heading to FL for a week long cruise. I am looking forward to spending a week with my Aunt and catching up on life. We really enjoy our time together and after her ordeal in February (surgery for cancer in her mouth) it's time for us to celebrate life!!!

Miss Addison had a wonderful preschool year. She learned so much and I can see her slowly coming out of her shell. Addison's dance recital is this Saturday and her brother's have been instructed to bring roses!!! Addison is going to be a butterfly and her costume is adorable!!! She is going to continue with ballet and add tap to her schedule this summer. She wants to take a class in hip hop but she has to be 7 years old. I think we have a dancer in the house.

I put Addison in one of her new petti's from my girl Kimberley and asked Addison if she would pose for a few pictures...that idea went south quickly LOL so as she picked every flower off my plants I snapped away.....here are a few snapshots of my girl....Queen of pruning.

Yesterday I took Addison for her 5 year check up. She is 42" and 37 lbs. Poor baby got 4 shots and the finger prick. She was so brave....especially when I offered a trip to toys r us. Addison had to pee in a cup and it was the funniest thing. Ken took Livi so this was the first time dealing with a daughter and the cup. The boys were easy...not so much with girls. Addison found the experience to be hysterical!!!! After wards I had to fill out paperwork. We got to the one form where Addison had to answer questions and I had to write down her answers. The first question (well not really a question) Addison had to copy a circle, then name what each of the animals were doing , and then she had to answer questions like "what do you do with a chair"....we got to the question "what do you do with a cup"....yep...you got it....we pee in it of course : )

I have really been enjoying photography. I have had a few people email me some questions and I thought I would take a moment to answer some of them.
One of the biggest questions I get is "What type of lens do I use and why". I use my 50mm for portraits once in a while but my Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L is my go to lens. I absolutely love this lens!!! It's great for large groups and for portraits. If you're looking for a fantastic all around lens...this is the one! I am purchasing the Canon EF 85mm f1.2L lens this month and I'm excited to get my hands on that baby!!!! Another question I get asked is "Does Addison ever take a bad picture and does she always pose willingly". The answer to this question is...Yes Miss A. takes many many many silly pictures and there are many days that she tells me to get lost when I whip out the camera. I often result to bribery.
I have also been asked if I would be willing to teach an online class in photo shop. I said no for a long time but I have decided that yes I will be offering an online photo shop class but they will be taught privately. This is because I want to teach on an individual basis geared towards the person and their needs and level of PS knowledge. The cost will be $50.00 for a two hour class that can be divided up over two sessions. If you are interested you can email me at Colleen@chasingdreams.me or MoonMa148@aol.com and we can set up a time.

Here she is with that sassy little "you've got to be kidding me mom" look. She is quite the "Queen of Fashion" with the rain boots don't you think?

I hope that you are all off to a wonderful summer!!!! Any one have any special summer plans??

Wild And Crazy Week

2010-05-29T10:42:00.024-05:00

Well if this hasn't been one wild and crazy week. Monday started off with a bang. I headed to the airport to catch a flight to Grand Rapids for the Amy Wenzel Photography Workshop. Once at the airport Ken opened the trunk realizing that my suitcase was not in the car : 0 Had to book a later flight. It all worked out because my friend Gail was on the later flight. We enjoyed a nice breakfast together at the airport and we were able to take a cab together to the hotel. All was good!

Monday evening Gail and I had dinner with Steffie, Kimberley and Tanya. We had a wonderful dinner and talked for hours. After dinner Miss Kimberley had a true Trunk Show!!! I could not believe my eyes when Kimberley opened the trunk of her van. It was full of petti's, tutu's and hair accessories. Gail and I had a blast going through all of the goodies and she even thought to bring goodie bags for us to fill up!!! Kimberley you rock!!!

Tuesday morning I attended the Amy Wenzel Photography workshop with Gail and Grace. This was the first time meeting Grace. Grace is so sweet and I loved spending the time getting to know her.

Amy's workshop was incredible!!!! I learned more in two days then I have all year long. Most importantly was the message I walked away with. Amy was so inspiring. I often felt like she was talking directly to me. Amy touched on topics that I was truly struggling with. I feel like I have direction and I'm ready to move forward with my photography. I hope that Amy has a Part II workshop...I will be first in line!!!

Below are a few pictures that I took at the workshop. The models were beautiful!!! I have more two process and I will post soon.

After the workshop, Gail and I headed to the airport. Only to find that our flight was canceled. We headed back to the hotel, stayed one more night and got up at 4:00 AM for a 6:40AM flight. Although it was disappointing having our flight delayed I won't deny the fact that spending one more night playing with Gail was fun!!!

I came home to a pool filter that wasn't working, the construction crew installing our new floors hit a pipe and caused a water leak...our basement carpet was saturated and they needed to replace some of the new hardwood floors. My dog would like to bite the work crew so I have to carry her around from room to room...I also forgot to cancel the cleaning crew so on Friday I had the construction workers, pool guy, cleaning crew and a nippy dog that is in serious need of the "Dog Whisperer" all at the same time!!! It was nutty!!!!

Things are pretty calm this weekend. I still have my family room, dining room, kitchen and living room furniture all over the place. The dining room is pretty much done but other then that...the crew will return on Tuesday.

We spent today in the pool playing with Livi and Addison (I played mermaids for hours, my mermaid name is "Pearl"in case you were wondering). Addison asked me if I would teach her to swim...she learned in about 5 minutes and she thinks she is pretty darn awesome!!!Our weather is gorgeous!!!!! Tomorrow is supposed to be beautiful too!!! Summer has truly arrived and we are loving it!!

Hope that you all enjoy the holiday weekend!!!

Livi in all her glory!!!

2010-05-20T13:17:00.014-05:00

Miss Livi is a crazy chick-a-roo!!! She can't sit still long enough for a picture (that would be the ADHD) and when she does want her picture taken I get one goofy session...I've decided that every family needs a Livi to keep them on their toes!!!

On this particuliar day I was actually snapping some pictures in the backyard of flowers...yes boring flowers but I was working on light and settings......and flowers always cooperate : ) Livi of course thought that I should be snapping away at her while she put on a silly show.

So for those of you that ask me often why I never photography my other daughter...here you have it!!! Although she is very entertaining.

Now for a little catching up. Yes I'm alive!!!! I'm just crazy busy!!! As most of you know my parents moved in. My mom and dad are very happy living here. I can see the calmness in my mother's eyes and my dad seems happy and relieved.

Last week they drove back to SC to put their house on the market, get rid of some stuff and get everything in order. They will be coming back shortly. My mom cried when they left. She did not understand that she was coming back and she thought she was being punished for not eating her dinner and for being bad. Which she was not bad at all, those were her words. It was heartbreaking. My mom kept saying "I'm sorry, I'm bad". It really broke my heart. I do think now she understands that she is coming back or at least we think she does.

While my parents are back home getting things in order we have started construction on our downstairs. I'm happy my mom is not here during the construction. What a mess!!! We have no access to the kitchen, bathroom,laundry room etc...the girls have to either stay in the basement or upstairs in their room. The dog would like to bite the workers so we have to make sure she is locked up...I really do live in a Nuthouse these days!!!!

My texture business is going quite well and I am so thankful to everyone who has been a part of making my little business a success!!!!

I am going to a Amy Wenzel photography workshop next week and cannot wait!!! My husband bought me a new camera (Canon 5D Mark II) and I love it!!! I am really enjoying photography and trying to step out of my comfort zone a bit more. My photography blog will be getting a face lift soon from this wonderful lady.

School is out for Addison next week. She graduates from Preschool and is so excited to start Kindergarten next year. Livi will be leaving 1st grade in the dust and headed to 2nd grade next year. She has already instructed me that she will be Addison's protector of boys!!! Apparently Addison is allergic to boys...who knew.

Chris and Justin moved in to their new apartment and love it!!! It is very nice and I am impressed with their decor. Kenny got a call from an agency and they want him to come and interview for voice overs for commercials...very exciting for him!!! Tyler is done with his sophmore year of college, his grades were awesome!!! He is working and spending time with his buddies that are home from college.

The boat is in the water, the pool is heated and we are ready for summer...now bring on the warm weather!!!

I am going to do my best to make it around to blogs tonight and try to blog a bit more...but to be honest between the kids home for summer and my parents here...it may be a bit nutty this summer LOL

Giveaway!!!

2010-05-14T15:28:00.003-05:00

I'm doing a Giveaway on my photography blog. If you liked to enter to win both of my texture sets head on over here.

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2010-05-08T21:04:00.018-05:00

"Your Mother is always with you.
She's the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street.
She's the smell of certain foods you remember, flowers you pick and
perfume that she wore.
She's the cool hand on your brow when you're not feeling well.
She's your breath in the air on a cold winter's day.
She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of a
rainbow. She is Christmas morning.
Your Mother lives inside your laughter.
She's crystallized in every teardrop.
A mother shows every emotion .......... happiness, sadness, fear,
jealousy, love, hate, anger, helplessness, excitement, joy,
sorrow... and all the while, hoping and praying you will only know the good
feelings in life. She's the place you came from, your first home, and she's
the map you follow with every step you take.
She's your first love; your first friend, even your first enemy, but
nothing on earth can separate you. Not time, not space...not
even death!"
Author: unknown

This Mother's Day has come with many new emotions. As you may know my parents moved in with us a little over a week ago. Watching my Mother suffer first hand with Parkinson's and Dementia is really hard. When you love someone so much it's hard to watch them deteriorate. There are so many things that I wish I would of done with my Mom, things I wish I would of said and things I wish I didn't say. I could dwell on all the negatives and cry until my eye were swollen shut but that wouldn't make our situation change. Instead I don't want to waste another minute thinking about the could of, should of, would of!!! I want to live in the NOW!!! I want to care for my mom the best way I can. I want to provide my Mother with a good quality of life while she is still with us. Even though my Mom can barely speak I can see love in her eyes. I can see the comfort in her face and I know that she feels the love of family all around her.

Watching my girls care for their grandmother is so touching. Livi loves to hold Grandma's hand when Grandma wanders around the house, get Grandma a cup of water when it's time for her to take her pills and snap Grandma's bib when it's time to eat. Livi is so sweet with Grandma. Livi pats Grandma on the head and tells her how much she loves her. Livi also loves to use her DSi to record Grandma singing, it's really sweet to watch (and kind of funny).

I feel that my girls are learning many life's lessons first hand.... compassion, unconditional love, how to care for another and the importance of family.

On this Mother's Day I feel truly blessed. My family is strong!!! We have all pulled together at a time when everything could of fallen apart. I could not have asked for a better Mother's Day gift then the blessings right in front of me.....my family.

Happy Mother's Day !!!!! Hope you have a wonderful day!!!!

"It was from you that I first learned to think , to feel, to imagine, to believe."

Exciting Give-A-Way!!!!!!

2010-05-03T09:15:00.005-05:00

The Wonderful and adorable Angie (co-founder of i heart faces) asked me if she could hold a give away with my textures!!!
I feel truly honored!!!! I am such a HUGE fan of both Angie, Amy and i heart faces!!!!
Please visit Angie's blog for all the details of the give-a-way!!!
give away!!!!!!! How exciting is this!!!!!!!...

Make sure to become a fan of Angie's blog. She has wonderful tips, beautiful photography and great give-a-ways!!!!

Here is the link to Angie's Blog The Arthur Clan!!!!

Execitement , Big Changes and Challenges!!!

2010-05-01T11:04:00.010-05:00

Oh my goodness what a week we have had at The Nut House!!!!

Last weekend I got a call from my cousin who lives near my parents in SC. He expressed to me how badly things were for my father. My father has been taking care of my mother (who has Parkinson's and Dementia) by himself and it was taking a toll on his health. It was time for me to take action. I called my Dad on Sunday and said it was time to move here. It took a little persuasion but they arrived safe and sound on Thursday. My Mom is down to 78 lbs and there is not much we can do for her to make her healthy other then make the time we have together....quality. Now my Dad is another story. He is the one that we need to take care of. He needs moral support and family around him to lesson the burden. That I can do! They will be selling their house soon and residing with us. Things will be changing in our home and times will not always be a piece of cake. I am their only daughter and it's up to me to be there for them as they are always there for me.

My two older sons packed up a u-haul and moved in to their new apt. downtown today. So much excitement for them!!!! And a lot more room in the house for me!!! : ) I will miss them here and I know that the girls will really miss them!!!!

And I found out this morning that my entree in the iheartfaces Challenge won 5th Place!!!! I am truly honored!!! To see all the beautiful entree's and winners go here.

This week will began a lot of changes for our family and we are ready for the challenge!!!!! There is a lot of love in our family and I feel so very blessed to be a part of such a fantastic family!!!

Our first challenge was last night. My parents room is downstairs while all the other bedrooms are upstairs. Thank Goodness Chris was awake while the rest of us were in deep dreamland. Grandma apparently woke up and got loose....Chris found Grandma wondering the halls and brought her back to bed. I guess we need an invisible fence for Grandma : P

Pray that my boys don't kill each other in their new apt. It could make for some interesting entertainment!!!

Wake Up Spring and B&W Wednesday

2010-04-21T13:37:00.029-05:00

I love love love spring!!!! I love watching all the dead plants and tree's come to life!!!

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This picture was processed using one of my new sheers "Sheer Sand Storm".

I am getting ready to launch my new set of textures which will include 50 textures and 15 sheers and overlays. For more information you can visit my website Chasing Dreams or become a fan on Facebook at Chasing Dreams Photography

Here are a few more spring pictures.

"Blossom by blossom the spring begins"

Author: Algernon Charles Swinburne

Processed with Chasing Dreams Texture "vacation" and "Rough Sheer Overlay" coming soon!

"Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's Party!""

Author: Robin Williams

This was processed with a "One Willow Preset" and two of my new textures "Avocado" and "Giovanni" Coming Soon!!

"Spring has put a spirit of youth in everything."
Author: William Shakespeare

To see more beautiful B&W's visit Lisa's blog here.

SPD

2010-04-19T22:08:00.008-05:00

I have posted many times about my daughter Olivia and Sensory Processing Disorder. I am a big advocate for our little girl. I want the world to know that SPD does exist!!! SPD is still not recognized in the medical community as it's own diagnosis it is still thought of as secondary. Hopefully soon that will change. I am very excited that SPD is still in the running for the 2013 revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5). If SPD makes it in to the book this could really open up doors for our children that suffer with SPD. Insurance companies would then recognize it and start covering it...which means more children will be able to get the therapy they desperately need.

This video below was sent to me and I think it is fantastic!!!! The person that created the video has autism which goes hand in hand with SPD. My daughter has SPD but not autism. This video is on Sensory overload and how it feels to suffer from SPD. I think that it's important to know how a child/person with SPD feels so that we can best help them...if you have a moment please watch this video. Education is the first step.

""Life is too short, ride your best horse first!""

2010-04-18T20:47:00.006-05:00

I took several picture's of Addison in this cute little cowboy hat(that she insisted she needed). The girl loves hats and shoes!!!!

Addison is a very shy little girl. Getting her to attend preschool was not easy. Addison is always eager to go to school but once we arrive she clings to me. I can pry her off, kiss her good-bye and leave knowing that she will not cry and will enjoy herself... communicating with the other children has been hard. Addison is sweet and will give anything to anyone...she likes to stand back and observe. We have talked many times about meeting friends and talking with them...playing with them and how one day maybe she can invite one of her friends over to play after school. Honestly, I stopped asking the teachers every time I picked Addison up if she played with the other children. There were many days that I arrived early and could see from my car that the kids were outside playing. I would watch the children running around the yard laughing and having fun...and my sweet little Addison was standing by the teacher watching everyone. My heart would just break for her.

We are nearing the end of the year and I hadn't seen much change in Addison...that was...until last week. Daddy picked Addison up from school and he called me right away to tell me that Addison shared a group hug with two little girls (who happen to be twins). Addison's teachers are actually friends of mine and they know how much I want Addison to bust out of her little shell...they couldn't wait to share the good news with daddy. Apparently the twins have taken Addison under their wings and it's working. Addison couldn't wait to tell me her friends names and how they looked alike. Daddy got to witness the girly group hug accompanied with squeals and laughter!!!! I love hearing Addison talk about her two friends...she is so excited and so proud. This is a huge step for Addison and I know there will be many many more milestones to come for our girl!!!!

A Few More Cruise Pictures

2010-04-14T22:11:00.019-05:00

I am slowly getting through the pictures that I took on our cruise. I need to put a book together for Tyler so that he can remember our fun trip. I really enjoy vacations with my boys. It gives us time to reconnect and enjoy each other with out the hussle and bustle of every day life. I also find my boys to be a lot of fun to be around.

Here is the ship that we sailed on. Man was she a big girl!!!!

The Oasis was about two times the length of most of the other cruise ships. Here she is docked next to another ship. You can see how much longer the Oasis is.

On this day we spent time on St. Maarten. I love St. Maarten. The water is beautiful and the shopping is fantastic!!!!! Tyler went on an ATV excursion and I spent the day walking around, shopping and taking it all in.

The water is so blue!!!! You can see beautiful bright yellow fish swimming in the water. They are just beautiful!!!

I love all the little shops!!! St. Maarten also has a lot of name brand stores...Coach, Tiffany's, Prada to name a few.

As I was cruising the streets of St. Maarten I heard music...not just any music,,,,very familiar music. I thought to myself "no way, that can't be what I think it is".....and sure enough...only on St. Maarten can you find..............

The Yoda Guy!!!! That's right...in the flesh. The man behind Yoda. I'm sure there were a team of creator's but he is known as "That Yoda Guy".

And seriously, after seeing a Stormtrooper in the doorway, how could I not go in!!!!! Where else can you walk the streets with a pina colada in hand, hum to the Star War's theme song and visit "The Yoda Guy". I know what your thinking...you lucky girl!!!!

Today is your lucky day too because I'm going to share The Yoda Guy with you...Here he is.

They (Yoda Guy and his wife) were so very nice!!! The greeted everyone and talked about what ever....and he really is an amazing artist. His work is gorgeous!!!

And after a long day in the sun and a few too many drinks it was so nice to come home to him(see below)....isn't he adorable!!! Who doesn't love a towel eel...

Wrapping Up The Week

2010-04-11T10:40:00.012-05:00

Do you ever feel like you do laundry and it grows back an hour later?
Do you ever feel like you go grocery shopping and stock the cupboards to the hill only to find that those crackers you bought for yourself (because they are truly mommy cracker like) are gone when you most desperately need them?
Do you ever feel like you are running in fifty million directions and have no clue which end is up?
Do you ever feel like you have a week where everything can possible go wrong?

That was my week in a nutshell....

The air went out on Monday...that was a very unexpected $10,000.00!!! Seriously when did it get that expensive to install a new air conditioner and heater? I guess since ours had always come with the house I had no clue.

Ken had the pool opened while I was on my cruise. I opened the cover up last week only to find out that the cost ($500.00) for opening the pool didn't include cleaning the pool only brushing it. No problem because we have the super duper fantastic pool cleaner that is the newest and sweetest in technology...I dropped that bad boy in only to find out it didn't work!!!!! So now I have a pool heated to 86 degrees and two little girls standing there waiting to dive in. I called the company and they told me to unscrew a section of the pool sweep and check the wires : 0 What!!! Are you kidding me, do I look like a electrician!!!! I finally did get the pool sweep to work ONE TIME. It was enough to get the pool cleaned so the girls could swim...but we need to send the sweep to the company so that they can repair it or replace it.

Miss Addison came in to the bathroom Thursday evening and said her ear hurt. Blood was all over the back of her ear where her earring went through. I used the clear soft plastic backs on her earrings. After examining her ear I could see that she had pushed the earring backing through the hole so far that it was showing in the front of the ear. Daddy had to take her to the ER. They gave her a shot to numb the ear and removed the earring. She has to let the hole heal (approx. 6-8 months) and then she can pierce it again if she wants.

Friday I took the most amazing Photoshop class from Scott Kelby. The man is truly a genuis!!! I learned so much!!! Digital Processing changes like the wind and although I was already processing some things his way there were so many things that have improved and it was wonderful to learn. I can't wait to put the techniques to use. After my wonderful day I got on to the toll road using my GPS only to find out I was headed the wrong way with no exit in sight. I hit the wrong address on the GPS...that will teach me to talk on the phone while setting up the GPS. I did make it home eventually.

And to end my "I have no control over life" week...yesterday we got up early, got dressed and raced to ballet thinking we were late...only to discover the studio was closed for Spring Break. I knew it was closed last week for Spring Break but didn't realize it was closed for two weeks. So I did what any mother would do who's daughter was devastated because she was dressed so adorable and had no where to go...we went for pancakes!

Yesterday afternoon I went for my 6 week root touch up (gotta cover that grey). My colorist went a little over in time and my hairstylist had to leave (she was off at 4:30 and I wasn't done until almost 5:30). I had to use someone new to blow dry my hair...no big deal it's just a blow dry. After he was done I looked like I walked out of the 80's....Gigantic hair!!! All I needed was a pair of red reeboks, stirrup pants and I was ready to roll.

This morning I woke up thinking about how unimportant each one of these mishaps were. Seriously, my family is healthy, we have a roof over our head and food on the table...I'm really quite lucky!!! Here's to a new and improved week a head!!!!

Processed with Chasing Dreams Action "Amazing Grace" and the texture "Zeppelin".

For more information please visit my photography site www.chasingdreams.me

St. Maarten

2010-04-07T15:19:00.016-05:00

I was hoping to have a few more pictures processed to post but the day got away from me. This is a picture from the famous Sint Maarten Guavaberry Emporium. They make the best hot sauce, spices and rum!!! They also blend a few yummy drinks : )
I processed this picture using Chasing Dreams Action Sweet and Warm B&W.

To View some beautiful B&W's please visit The Long Road To China

I finally have my new photography site up and running. I still have some minor kinks to work out. This will be a place for me to sell my textures and actions. I will also use my new photography site to set up photography sessions and for client viewing. I am very excited to have the site up and running. I hope you will like it. I'm sure I will be changing the color's often...I seem to have a habit of doing that...I'm a girl, I view it as changing outfits : )

St. Thomas

2010-04-06T22:43:00.014-05:00

I absolutely love the beaches on St. Thomas. Last time we were there we went to Meagan's Bay and this time we went to Emerald Beach. I would have to say that Emerald Beach was nicer hands down!!!

Tyler and I spent several hours on the beach enjoying the warm water and hot sun. After the beach we did a little shopping before heading back to the ship.

This was a bar in the shopping area of St. Thomas.

Look at that crazy guy pulling his dog around on a boogie board. So funny!!!

Tyler enjoying the warm water. He was so burned. He had red blotch marks all over.

I'm Back and Feeling Wonderful!!!

2010-04-05T11:14:00.004-05:00

Look at who got glasses!!! Is she not gorgeous!!!!!! I think she is absolutely beautiful!!!!

We're home from our cruise and feeling so relaxed!!!! It was a wonderful week. I spent a lot of time to myself and found it to be very healthy. One can really clear their mind when they spend time alone. So many funny stories from the last 7 days, some how I attract the weirdo's. I can't tell you how wonderful it felt to see my girls after 8 days. The kisses and hugs were priceless!!!! Man I love my babies.

I have a lot of pictures from our cruise that need to be processed. I will spend time over the next few days processing and posting. This blog is my scrapbook for my children so I will be posting several pictures.

I am planning a cruise for August. I will be traveling with my Aunt Jeanine. Jeanine is the one that went through major surgery for cancer in her mouth. She still has a long road to recovery but she is healing nicely. I can't wait to spend time with her.

This coming Friday I will be attending an all day Scott Kelby PS workshop in Chicago. If any one else is attending shoot me an email and let me know. I am so excited to learn from the man himself!!! He is traveling around teaching classes and the classes are very reasonable. I paid $99.00 and the class is from 9AM-5PM with a break for lunch.

Still working on my new photography website. I'm a bit slow but hope to have it up by the end of the week.

Off to the grocery store....back to reality!!!!!

Day One on "The Oasis"

2010-03-27T23:32:00.014-05:00

Tyler and I are on a cruise. We decided we needed to get away and booked a cruise on Thursday ( we're nuts). We flew out on Friday and set sail today. Talk about a whirlwind!!!! We are on Royal Caribbeans new ship "The Oasis". What an incredible ship!!! I have been on 7 cruises and never have I been on anything quite like this ship!!! The ship is divided in to three sections. The Promenade, Boardwalk and Central Park. I don't even feel like I'm on a ship it feels more like being in a town.
Tonight we saw the musical "Hairspray". It was fabulous!!!! It was like a Broadway show!!! We hit the casino and we are up as of tonight..I'm sure that will change LOL

Here are a few pictures from today.

This is the Promenade area.

This is the cutest little cupcake shop with yummy cupcakes. They also have cupcake decorating classes.

The boardwalk is a child's dreamland!!!!

Tyler taking it all in : )

Central Park is gorgeous!!! There are so many plants, tree's and flowers. Lot's of little restaurants and stores.

And a Coach store!!!!!

That's it for today!!! Tomorrow we will be in Nassau.

""The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here."" Author: Robert Ingersoll

2010-03-24T09:11:00.018-05:00

My little poser. Addison loves to model for me. Yesterday Addison went for her kindergarten eye exam. We discovered during the exam that Addison not only has an astigmatism, she is very near sighted. Talk about Mommy guilt. I felt so bad that I didn't pick up that Addison was having problems seeing. Addison picked out three little pairs of glasses. Two purple and one pink. She looks so cute. I am happy that she is excited for her new glasses to come because that tells me she will wear them and feel good about herself in them. It also helps that Livi, Tyler, Justin and Daddy all wear glasses. I can't wait to photograph Addison in her new spec's! : )

This picture was processed with one of my action B&W Glimmer and two of my textures Storm and Sunshine.

For more B&W Wednesday pictures head on over to Lisa's blog and take a peek at all the beautiful images.

I'm so proud of this little girl {Sunday Snapshot}

2010-03-21T22:01:00.004-05:00

"A picture is the expression of an impression. If the beautiful were not in us, how would we ever recognize it?"
Author: Ernst Haas

I attended Addison's parent teacher conference on Friday. Addison is only in pre-k and the conference was to address Addison's readiness for Kindergarten. I was so proud as I left the conference. I heard how bright Miss Addison is, and how she is on task and even a head in many areas academically. But what made me beam from ear to ear was when her teacher told me how kind Addison is. That to me meant more then anything. : ) Kindness is something that yes can be taught but not always exhibited. I am so happy and proud that Addison is kind to her peers.

A littlle Re-do!!!!

2010-03-15T13:12:00.019-05:00

Back in December my computer crashed and I was so bummed because I lost so many pictures. I did back up my stuff but for some reason what I backed up will not reload properly. I'm sure it has something to do with operator error. Last night I was searching for a DVD for Livi and came across a few disk that I burnt pictures on and obviously forgot that I had. Of course it's not all of my pictures but I did find quite a few. I redid a few of them and can't wait to redo some more. It keeps me busy during my little "cabin fever" period.

Spring spring where are you???????? Please come soon before I lose my mind!!!!!

Happy Monday!!!!!

What's On The Horizon

2010-03-13T18:59:00.008-06:00

This picture was process using Chasing Dreams action "Pure Sweetness" and Chasing Dreams Textures "Shack", "Dirty Stone" and "The Sun".

About a year ago one of my son's suggest that I combine my blog and at the time my sewing blog in to a website. He had a few friends that were graphic designers and they offered to do it for me. At the time I said no I didn't really want to change anything.

Recently with the adding of my new textures and a few other things in the works I decided to take the plunge. Over the past few weeks with the help of my husband and two of my sons I have been looking at different web designers. My one son works in IT and has a lot of connections, my other son has a few friends that work in graphic design and my husband has some friends and contacts. I also have talked to a few photographers regarding the web designers that they have used and their experience. So many to choose from it's a bit overwhelming and confusing for this little pea brain of mine...but I think I have it narrowed down.

The website will be linked to our family blog, recipe Monday, My photography site (already have a few sessions booked...yeah), textures and actions....and a few other fun things. I may even go back to sewing...in my spare time (are you laughing yet).

Hope that everyone is having a wonderful weekend!! My boys are off celebrating St. Patrick's Day Chicago Style!!! Trust me, those Irish peeps (my boys included) are crazy!!!! They love their St Patrick's Day....I think the Italians need a day...I vote for St. Giuseppe Day!!!!!! : P

A Little MJ......and a lot of cuteness!!!

2010-03-12T10:47:00.017-06:00

My friend Gail is hosting an online Matilda Jane trunk show. This line is one of the cutest lines that MJ has come out with (In my opinion). If you want to order something please visit Gail's blog for more information regarding her online trunk show. Trust me, you will not be disappointed in this line...it is so stinkin' adorable!!!!

Miss A. was not in the mood for pictures this morning as I tried to get her to pose for me in some of her new MJ from the spring line....I think the fact that most of the snow has melted, it's about 50 degree's out and she was distracted by the birds chirping...So here she is a-natural in pure Addison style...

She thinks this is a model pose LOL she's a funny little girl.

Both images have been processed with my Chasing Dreams action Vintage Portrait.

On the top picture I used the textures shack and confused from my Chasing Dreams Texture Collection 2 (coming soon).
On the bottom picture I used the texture dirty from the Chasing Dreams Texture Collection 1.

Do You Know What Today Is????

2010-03-11T05:37:00.000-06:00

It was March 11, 1985....and after many many many many (did I mention many) hours of labor Justin Andrew made his way in to the world and in to our heart forever.

What a beautiful and perfect baby Justin was....he was so alert and so so so stinkin adorable!!! Justin was a very calm baby. He never cried and was always content. I think it helped that I started giving him cereal off of a spoon at 1 1/2 weeks old...yep you read that right. My baby was hungry and I'm old school...I fed him : ) Justin slept through the night at 3 weeks old. It was wonderful : )

Justin was such a happy toddler. He was quiet and always had a ready smile.

When Livi arrived Justin was in his senior year of high school and life was good! It didn't take much for Livi to enter into Justin's heart. As you can see from the picture below...Justin was very proud to have Livi pose with him and the guys for their turn about pictures.

Justin....watching you grow over the past 25 years has been a true pleasure. You have become such an incredible young man...we are so very proud of who you are and your accomplishments in life.

Happy 25th Birthday!!! May all your wishes and dreams come true!!!!!

""The only way to have a friend is to be one."" Author: Ralph Waldo Emerson

2010-03-09T21:33:00.015-06:00

I tell you, I am so over winter!!!! I just want sunshine, flowers and my flip flops! The weather has been a bit warmer but not warm enough for this California native. To make my house feel a little bit more like spring I buy fresh flowers ever week. I have to. It truly makes me feel better. It's like bringing a little sunshine in to my home. This past weekend I bought tulips in white and in pale pink. Just looking at the tulips makes me smile. : )

This image was processed with Chasing Dreams Action "Glimmer" and Chasing Dreams texture "Damask".

For more information on purchasing my textures you can visit my photography blog here

For more beautiful black and white images please visit Lisa's blog here.

Through The Eyes Of Our American Girl

2010-03-08T11:01:00.032-06:00

Last Friday we took our sweet little American Girl to her favorite place in the whole wide world....Where else but the American Girl Store!!! We were there to celebrate Addison's 5th Birthday. Addison could spend hours at the AG store.

Here is a little glimpse in to our day....

Which way do I go first?????? So much to see and do!!!!

Hmnnnnnnnnnn so this is the new Lanie....nope, I don't want this doll.

Let's head down this aisle....

Wow Weeeee!!!! Look at all those dolls!!!! So many decisions to make.

Taking a break from shopping and getting ready t0 go to lunch.

Yummy yummy!!! Look at all those desserts!!!! Which ones am I taking home?

Not sure why mommy took this picture...she's weird like that. : P

Here I am posting with my new doll that I named Shaylee who is now friends with my doll Ivy.

Me and my main man....My Daddy!!! Did you know I'm my Daddy's favorite : )

Wow!!!! Is this going to be a fancy lunch or what!!!!! Look at this place!!!!

A card just for me!!!! And pink lemonade in a big girl glass...I am feeling so 5!!!!

Everything looks so good....what should we order girls?

A little tea for Shaylee... I tried to stick the tea cup in my goody bag but mommy said I had to give it back...bummer dude!

Why are all these strangers singing to me? I'm feeling a bit uncomfortable at the moment.

And I set my sights big and wished for a new hair clip...I guess the thousand that I have are not quite enough : )

Oh boy is this Fancy Nancy like or what!!! Look at how my ice cream was served. Man... Mommy doesn't serve ice cream like this at home.

Well that's it folks!!!! Until next year when I return for my 6th Birthday...to which I started planning the minute we left the AG store.

and here is a little funny from my girl.

Addison likes to make up stories and write them down on paper (just a mix of many different letters etc). She staples the pages together and creates a book, folds it and stuffs it in an envelope and either writes Ken or Colleen on it...yes our first names LOL and then she reads us her story. They are always very cute.

Yesterday Addison created a story for Daddy and on the envelope she wrote Ken.

Daddy "Addison is this for me? Wow, (while pointing at the envelope) do you know which one of your brother's is also named Ken"

Addison "Is it Tyler"

Daddy "ah no"

Addison "is it Justin"

Daddy " nope try again"

Addison "is it Chris"

Daddy "no (now laughing)"

Addison "it must be Kenny"

Daddy "yes...good job"

That's my girl...brains like her mommy : )

Happy 5th Birthday Sweet Addison

2010-03-04T20:01:00.030-06:00

Today is the day!!!! Today sweet Addison you turn five!!! Five is such a cool age. This will be the year that you graduate from preschool!!
This will be the year that you start kindergarten!!
You can now open all those little fingers up on your hand and shout to the world "I'm Five"
And as you have expressed so many times Miss A. Five means that you are now a medium kid...no longer a little kid : )

Welcome to the world of five my sweet, beautiful, happy, gorgeous, lovely medium kid!!!!

Hooray! Hooray! You're finally FIVE. Bet you thought this day would never arrive.
Author Unknown

"Today you are you,that is truer than true.

There is no one alive who is youer than you."

Author: Dr.Seuss

"A good laugh is sunshine in a house."

Author: William Thackeray

"On your birthday

stretch for a sunbeam...

Reach for a star...

Go for a beautiful dream...

Pick out some wishes,

no matter how far,

or how hard to reach

they may seem...

Cherish some hopes

that are dear to your heart...

And as a new year comes in view,

treasure and keep them

and know from the start

that this year

you can make them come true!"

Author: Larry S. Chengess

"Live life as if it were created just for you."

Author: Maya Angelou

"On your birthday, I'm wishing you something you've always given me...happiness, laughter and lots of love" Author: Unknown

Will you be a part of helping to bring Drew home?

2010-03-04T12:19:00.009-06:00

I know I said that I was going to post Addison's 5 year old pictures today...but I decided to save them for tomorrow which is her actual birthday.....

Today I want to talk about Mandi and her families incredible story to bring their son Drew home who is in China waiting for his forever family. I loved reading Mandi's story because it's a story of pure love!!!! Mandi and her husband have had so many obstacles thrown in their path to Drew but they have decided to leap right over those obstacles...they have decided to keep the faith and move forward...often not sure what forward means for them...it's their love and faith for this sweet little boy ....this sweet little boy who is "there" son.

I think that many people who have not adopted or who are not some how connected to adoption don't get that once we (adoptive families) connect to a child...that's it, that child is "ours". They have entered our heart and soul no differently then a birth child. Some times unexpected things happen along the adoption journey, just like unexpected things happen along the journey of life with bio kids...we don't just say "well I'll just turn the love in my heart off". Nope, doesn't happen like that...to the mother's out there of bio's (me included) if you found out tomorrow that financially things were going to be really tight in your house and you needed money to feed, cloth etc your bio child...would you take the baby back to hospital because life just got difficult? No, that thought wouldn't even enter your mind...you would do what ever it took to make sure that your child was taken care of...that is exactly what Mandi and her family are doing...they are doing everything possible to get that sweet little boy, their son Drew, home...where he belongs!!!!

Mandi has an incredible fundraiser going on...one of the best I have ever seen!!! Incredible prizes and lot's of chances to win...and this is a win win situation...for a small donation you can be a part of this incredible journey...I know for me I can't wait to see Drew home in the arms of his parents. : ) So what are you waiting for....run over there be a part of the fun!!!!! Let the party for Drew began!!!!!!

This is what I'm going to do to make it even more fun!!! In honor of my sweet Addison's birthday which is tomorrow, If you go to Mandi's blog and donate 10.00 (or more if you like) which will give you a ticket in to the big raffle, I will send you my first set of textures for free. This offer stands until tomorrow March 5th at midnight. I will also be available to work with you one on one learning how to use the textures if you are new to textures.

Please send me an email at MoonMa148@aol.com and put Drew in the title to let me know that you donated...along with the email address that you want me to send the textures to.

Black and White Wednesday

2010-03-02T21:59:00.022-06:00

Last week I took Addison's 5 year old pictures. I will post them tomorrow. This is one of the pictures that I took. I decided to use this picture for Black and White Wednesday because the picture is simple enough that I could play around with the coloring. There are so many different undertones that can be used on black and whites. In the last picture I used silver and blue tones and in the middle picture I pulled in warmer tones (taupe, yellow's and red) I used one of my actions on all three pictures. I then applied a very light texture and brought the opacity way down, while softly erasing over the face so not to erase all the color from the texture. Textures can be used in so many different ways. I often use textures for color. My favorite of all three is the first one...I think I like it in color best...what about you?

Created with Chasing Dreams action "Vintage Tea" and Chasing Dreams texture "Clay"

Created with Chasing Dreams action "Glimmer b&w" and Chasing Dreams texture "Vintage Dream"

For more information on my textures please see my side bar or visit my photography site Chasing Dreams Photography.

To see more B&W pictures please visit Lisa's blog....

What's New At The Nut House

2010-03-02T09:57:00.034-06:00

A few people have emailed me about purchasing some of the textures that I have created. I put together my first set and have displayed them on my photography blog "Chasing Dreams Photography" I am busy working on a second set that will also have some overlays. It will take me a while to get it together.

Chasing Dreams Textures Set 1

Created with a Chasing Dreams Action "Vintage" and the Chasing Dreams Texture "Matilda" out of my second collection.

You can find more information on purchasing my first set of textures on my photography blog.

If you have any questions please feel free to email me. If you need help applying them I'm always available by phone or email during the day when the girls are in school.

Also if you are signed up for Lisa's class I know that she will be teaching "how to" apply textures. Not sure which class it will be but you can check with her and ask her for information.

We are gearing up for Addison's 5th Birthday which is on Friday. We ( Mommy and Daddy) are taking Addison to the American Girl Store to eat in the cafe and then to let her shop shop shop!!!! She already has things circled in her new American Girl spring catalog. Now that's an experienced shopper...I'm impressed! Saturday we will have dinner and cake with just family at Addison's request. I ordered her cake last week and hopefully she will like it. I use same bakery for all of our special cakes and when I was ordering Addison's cake I had so many instruction's from my little Princess that the woman taking the order said "are you sure she is only going to be 5" LOL The girl knows what she wants!!!! LOL

Yesterday Addison was so excited because her box of Matilda Jane items arrived.

This picture processed with the texture "artistic mess"

I have to say that this is about the cutest MJ line ever!!!!!! The little wrap (the mossy willow) that Addison is wearing below was her favorite item of all!!! She grabbed that little wrap and put it on so fast!!!! If you missed my MJ online show my good friend Gail will be having one in the next few weeks. Matilda Jane will be adding new items to their already adorable Hammond Bay line So if your interested on viewing the line and being included in Gails online show head on over to her blog and let her know.

This picture processed with Chasing Dream texture "meadow" from my second collection.

Happy Tuesday!!!!!!!

The Crazy Eight

Love Them Home

Snow Days and Catch Up

From Our Home To Yours

Christmas Is In The Air

Love Them Home

My Helping Hands

Back to October

Tis' The Season

Preview of Justin and Ashley's Wedding

Halloween with the little nuts!!!

If tears can build a stairway, and memories a lane. I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again.

The Wedding..

Our little flower girl

You Make Me Smile

Chuck E. Cheese and then some..

Happy 9th Birthday Miss Liv

Livi "When I grow up I'm going to be a dentist"Mommy "That's a great job Livi, you'll be very good at it"Livi "I know. And I get to wear gloves".

Back To School

"Dancing is like dreaming with your feet!"

"Sometimes being a brother is better than being a superhero."

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them."

" Cherish the everyday moments, because you never know what they will bring" Author: unknown

"God gave us children to bring immeasurable joy into our lives!" Author: Linda Marshall

4th of July

Europe

Mother's Day

Wishing all of you a Mother's Day filled with love and happiness.

"The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother"

Easter

Homeschool 101

Save The Date

Well....

Cha Cha Changes.....

Happy 6th Birthday Addison!!!

Livi's yummy assignment

The Performer

My Wish For You

Excitements in the air!!

The Blizzard of 2011

""A heart that has truly loved never forgets."" Author: Thomas Moore

Just around the corner in every woman's mind - is a lovely dress, a wonderful suit, or entire costume which will make an enchanting new creature of her. ~Wilhela Cushman

I choose not to place "DIS", in my ability~Robert M. Hensel

Mid Year update-Addison

Resolutions & Friendship

Christmas at the Nut House

Holidays From Our Home To Yours!!!

"You can dance anywhere, even if only in your heart."

Celebrate!!!!!!

Birthday Bash & 5 year Homecoming!!!!

Thanksgiving Feast With Livi

Happy 5 Years !!!!!

Friday Funny

Livi's Story-National Adoption Awareness Month

Happy Birthday Chris!!!!

Such Sweet Memories-Sunday Snapshot

Loving my new look!!!

Under Construction

Happy 8th Birthday Livi

First Day of Kindergarten

First Day of Second Grade

Happy Birthday Mommy

Hump Day Check in!!!

"A father is his daughters first love and his sons first hero."

Thankful!!! Very very thankful!!!

Giveaway!!!!!

Addison's Dance Recital

Schools Out for Summer!!!!

Wild And Crazy Week

Livi in all her glory!!!

Giveaway!!!

Happy Mother's Day!!!

Exciting Give-A-Way!!!!!!

Execitement , Big Changes and Challenges!!!

Wake Up Spring and B&W Wednesday

Processed with Chasing Dreams Texture "vacation" and "Rough Sheer Overlay" coming soon!

This was processed with a "One Willow Preset" and two of my new textures "Avocado" and "Giovanni" Coming Soon!!

SPD

""Life is too short, ride your best horse first!""

A Few More Cruise Pictures

Livi "When I grow up I'm going to be a dentist"
Mommy "That's a great job Livi, you'll be very good at it"
Livi "I know. And I get to wear gloves".