Kaylee's Journey

2011-06-23T11:17:00.001-05:00

Kaylee got to go to Fiesta Texas yesterday with a bunch of friends. She had a blast!!

Rough Week

2010-09-10T20:55:00.001-05:00

I know I haven't been here in a while...and the amazing thing is that I am not actually here now. I have figured out how to blog using ny new Droid x. Simply amazing!

Anyway, on to my girl...she has been having nose bleeds quite often lately. This week consisted of a sinus infection and 3 nosebleeds in the last 24 hours. Poor monkey.

Please pray that the nosebleeds stop and the sinus infection gets better.

Do You Remember?

2010-05-26T18:50:00.002-05:00

Do you remember when you found out you were having a baby?

Do you remember how incredibly long you waited for your baby to get here?

Do you remember how you felt when you first laid eyes on your baby?

Do you remember how it felt when you held your baby for the first time?

Now, couple that with waiting YEARS for your new baby...

And couple that with being overwhelmingly appreciative of the best gift anyone ever gave you...

That's how most adoptive parents feel...especially those who have waited for a foreign adoption.

Read to learn about how a friends love of missions turned into giving a child a home.

What a great story!

Bluebonnet Contest

2010-04-01T13:11:00.002-05:00

My daughter recently got her portraits taken in the Texas Bluebonnets by my boss.

Now, one of my favorites is on the Love Stories Facebook page as part of a contest.

I would love for you to head over there and vote for your favorite bluebonnet portrait...even if it isn't of my girl because the competition is a portrait of my business partner's children.

Just vote! Either way...it's all good!

Ladybug Birthday

2010-03-22T15:29:00.006-05:00

I have a great friend that gives me some leftover party supplies every year. I usually take what she gives me and add my own touch each year. Last year, she gave me some ladybug stuff and after watching it sit in my garage for a year, it was time to make it come to life.

First, the party preparations:

I found the red buckets at Hobby Lobby for 50% off. I grabbed those and a Sharpie and started circle-ing away. I added sticker sheets, also from Hobby Lobby and also 50% off, ladybug garden tools and ladyug bug catcher, both from Dollar General and a ladybug wood cutout to color from Joann Fabrics. I think they turned out precious!

Then, for the ladybug dress-up!

I made the antennae with headbands from Dollar General (6 for $1), pipe cleaners and pouf balls (isn't that the official name?). I took 5 pipe cleaners per set. I twisted 2 around a pencil to make them cork-screwy. I then twisted a pouf ball onto each end. I twisted the other end around the headband. Once the antennae were secure, I used the remaining pipe cleaners to twist around the headband, covering them completely.

The wings were made of posterboard. Between the red and black layers, I attached some elastic for the children to thread their arms through to wear the wings on their backs.

Preparations complete!

I even found it necessary to have ladybug snacks. A little google search and blog-stalking and I found a few precious things to eat!

The ladybug bucket that the plates are in and the ladybug stand that the brownie pops are on both came from Hobby Lobby - again, 50% off!

The recipe for these precious ladybug crackers can be found here.

A mixture of Chex-Mix and Goldfish. The 'swarming ladybugs' are ladybug buttons glued to the ends of wire. They were in the original hand-me-down-party a year ago.

Someone posted brownie pops on Facebook and the moment I saw them, I knew I had to make them - ladybug style!

Even though many of my FB friends thought I should make the cake myself, I decided to buy one from a local bakery instead. I think it turned out precious!

Kaylee's super cute shirt came from here! Yvette and Sheila are my heros!

We did a super easy - and super messy - ladybug craft.

Small paper plate, painted red. Add black spots and head (that I had pre-cut from posterboard), googly eyes and pipe cleaner antennae.

Along with the bouncer and the craft, the kids played a ladybug beanbag toss game. The beanbags were ladybug shaped and the kids tossed them and tried to get them to land on large leaves that were cut out of green butcher paper and laminated. We had these scattered on the floor and steps.

Also, notice the simple decorations in the background. Red streamers and black balloons...so lovingly hung by my almost 12 year old son!

Don't you just love that stance!

She is loving the gifts...and it looks like her big brother is too (HA!).

So, even though it took a lot of prep work, this was by far the best party I have given.

I hope my girl remembers it for a lifetime!

Kaylee's 4th Birthday Tea

2010-03-15T16:45:00.008-05:00

WOW! So long since I have been here!

I really think Blogger should figure out a way to send a photo for blog updating...much like FB posts can be done!

Anyway, it is that time of year again, Kaylee's Birthday!

We went to tea today. This year, we chose a teacher friend of mine. Her 'red thread' to Kaylee is that they are both adopted.

Barbara brought Kaylee a book that was Barbara's as a child!

Such a sweet gift!

Kaylee actually tried tea this year!

Peach Ginger with a touch of honey!

See that crazy tray of sandwiches? They were all for Kaylee.

Needless to say, she didn't eat them all!

This year's teacup - chosen by Barbara.

What We Are Thankful For...

2009-11-26T17:36:00.000-06:00

We went to the hematologist last week...just a regular check-up.

He came back with the dreaded pink paper...the one with 'the numbers'. This time, it read 204,000!!! That's CRAZY! We have NEVER been in the 200s!

After a bit of bantering back and forth, he said, 'I think we are done'.

'You mean, DONE, done?'

'Yes, I think we are chasing our tails. Her last 5 appointments have been FABULOUS and she hasn't had steroids in almost a year. I think she has outgrown this. You know what signs to look for and when you might need to call me, but I think we are done'.

'Fabulous! and not to be rude, but I hope to ever see you again!'

So, it looks like my girl might have outgrown her ITP. He told us in the beginning that 85% of kids outgrow this condition, just never thought we would be one of the 85%!

Praise and Glory to the Great Physician!

Turkey Tango...or Not...

2009-11-23T17:22:00.003-06:00

This last Thursday, Kaylee's MDO class had their Thanksgiving Feast...

a few nuggets, some corn, mashed potatoes and a roll.

Then a little Turkey Tango.

Here she is getting ready...

and here she is NOT doing the Tango!

Well, the other kids were cute...

My Winnings...

2009-11-21T17:19:00.000-06:00

Remember when I told you I won a fortune cookie giveaway?

Well, I finally received them in the mail. After we spoke back and forth, came up with custom fortunes for Kaylee's Gotcha Day, and waited until closer to the event so I would have fresh cookies, Fancy Fortune Cookies shipped me a FABULOUS product.

(BTW, if you are wondering, I chose chocolate...just figured one can't go wrong with chocolate!)

I am so excited to have these! We are going to introduce Kaylee's MDO class to Gotcha Day by reading this book

and eating the winnings!

I can't wait!

Wordless Wednesday - Spurs Season Opener!!!

2009-10-28T09:01:00.002-05:00

Pencil Song

2009-10-22T15:36:00.002-05:00

My daughter should definately be a songwriter!

Lately, she has been singing many songs to the tune of 'Frere Jacques', which she learned at Mothers Day Out.

So, she is sitting with David the other day, drawing with a pencil and singing this ditty that she made up...

Pencil Song

(Sung to the tune of Frere Jacques)

by Kaylee Bowren

Why a pencil?

Cause it writes.

Writing all the letters

That's what it is.

My girl the song writer!

Do you think we could sell it to Beyonce and make millions??

Super Cute Hat!

2009-10-18T14:58:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to show you the super cute hat I found at a craft show this past weekend.

I think my girl looks like a doll in it!

If you are interested in a precious hat for a little one you know, I can get you the name and number of the lady who makes them. She has everything from 6 months on...

Too Cute!

My Little Pony Giveaway

2009-10-13T20:22:00.001-05:00

My girl loves her ponies. She plays with them constantly.

She has one DVD that she watches over and over and over...

Here is a chance for us - and you - to win another my Little Pony DVD.

Rush on over and leave a comment. The entries will close tonight at midnight!

I Super-Puffy Heart LOVE Target!

2009-10-08T13:41:00.002-05:00

Each piece $4.90.

Need I say more?

Plum Precious Kaylee

2009-09-29T15:05:00.003-05:00

See that cute little button on my sidebar?

Plum Precious Clothes...LOVE THEM!

Just want to show you my Plum Precious Girl in her Plum Precious Clothes!

Platelet Update

2009-09-21T18:54:00.002-05:00

Well, I firmly believe our Father has reached down from above and touched my girl!

It has been at least 6 months since she had to take steroids and yet, she has some super duper platelets!

Today her number was 156,000!!!

This is CRAZY GOOD!

She has NEVER been this high...and for no reason!

Well, other than GOD!

Amen and Amen!

First Cookie Baking Experience

2009-09-16T23:55:00.002-05:00

Kaylee's First Cookie Making Experience

2009-09-16T08:12:00.000-05:00

Another Fabulous Giveaway

2009-08-28T10:39:00.002-05:00

Speaking of Gotcha Day, wouldn't it be great to have the meal at PF Changs and then come home for a special family get-together? If I win, that's what we will be doing (with a special dessert of the fortune cookies that I already had the benefit of winning)!

Go check out the PF Changs giveaway!

I WON!!!!!

2009-08-25T19:56:00.003-05:00

I won the Fancy Fortune Cookie giveaway over at Treasured Giveaways!!!!!

How cool is that?!?!?!?!?!

I CANNOT wait to get them. I will use them to make our Gotcha Day celebration even more special! I can choose either 100 assorted cookies without personal fortune OR 100 of one variety with a personal message.

So, here's where I need help...please give Fancy Fortune Cookies a gander and tell me what I should do...do I choose one kind? Do I get a personalized message? Do I choose an assortment? Decisions, decisions!

Please remember these will be used for my daughter's 3rd Gotcha Day, and she will be almost 4 years old at time of celebration. They really will be HER cookies (although, she will share with everyone).

I want to thank Doreen for hosting this giveaway.

Fortune Cookie giveaway

2009-08-21T08:45:00.003-05:00

I am aiming this post towards all my FCC friends, but anyone who loves fortune cookies should head on over!

Treasured Giveaways has the honor of giving away 100 fortune cookies from Fancy Fortune Cookies.

Wouldn't it be so fun to have custom fortune cookies for Chinese New Year or your child's Gotcha Day? I am hoping to win in celebration of Kaylee's upcoming Gotcha Day.

So head on over and join the contest!

Please Pray...and Call

2009-08-13T18:24:00.002-05:00

I cannot imagine what this family is going thru...

They went to China to adopt their child. They get there and find out that she has tested positive for TB. The CDC adopted a new law on July 1, 2009 that will not allow her to come to America until she tests positive. So, they have had to leave her in China and return to their other child, home and jobs.

Please read their story and make the appropriate calls.

I cannot imagine having to leave your child there once you have gone and bonded...heartbreaking!

New Clothes

2009-08-01T20:49:00.004-05:00

Kaylee is on her last dress that we picked up while in China. I remember shopping and buying 'bigger sizes' thinking she would never fit in them. Well, now, 2 1/2 years later, we are in the last one that fits.

I have been looking around at various Chinese festivals for more authentic dresses for her. Goodness! Those outfits that cost me $8-$10 in China cost me $30-$35 in the states. I just can't bring myself to pay that.

Well, I have a sweet friend who is spending some time in China. I Facebooked her about 3 months ago and asked her if she would shop for me. I gave her a dollar limit and told her she could pick out whatever styles she liked. I asked her to choose all different sizes. She thought this was a great idea! So, for the last few months, when she would find an outfit that she liked for my girl, she would pick it up.

Her parents spent a few weeks with her in China and she sent the outfits home with them.

It was like Christmas! Take a look at Kaylee's haul!!

All the precious outfits! I can't wait to see her in them as she grows!

LOVE the sweet little pants on this one.

Precious sleeveless dress.

This one is like none I've ever seen. Full circle skirt, cotton (not silk). It is so sweet!

Check out the fur and matching purse! I hope it gets cold enough in SA to wear this one.

Thanks, Lesli for sending us such great treasures!

Platelet Update

2009-07-28T07:33:00.002-05:00

Kaylee and I made a visit to the hematologist yesterday.

I was a bit concerned about this visit. She has had 2 small nosebleeds since our last visit, so I was quite unsure of what the outcome would be.

She is not the trooper that she used to be. She is old enough now to know that this hurts. She used to offer her index finger and bravely take the stick. Not so much any more...hides her hands and screams at the appropriate time. I don't blame her, I would too. I just think it is interesting that she used to take it in stride and now it is a meltdown.

Anyway, on to the news...her platelets were 149,000! This is HUGE! Her 'normal' is about 32,000. These results are WITHOUT STEROIDS! She hasn't had steroids in well over 6 months!

What does this mean? I don't know exactly...but...it means, in part, that her body is either making more platelets or her spleen has stopped destroying what she does have.

It's amazing, really.

Keep praying for my girl, her spleen and her platelets. We are not out of the woods. However, we do not go back to the hematologist for 8 weeks!

Amazing!

South Padre Island

2009-07-19T22:07:00.000-05:00

We recently took a trip down to the island. It was a nice get away.

I think my girl enjoyed her first beach experience quite a lot. What do you think?

Swimming Lessons

2009-07-16T22:03:00.003-05:00

Independence Day - Kaylee Style

2009-07-07T20:54:00.003-05:00

Before Fireworks

(she just can't wait for them to start!)

After Fireworks

(yup, she's flopped over dead asleep!)

Wordless Wednesday - Swimming (sort of)

2009-06-03T14:13:00.000-05:00

Success!

2009-06-01T14:04:00.005-05:00

It's been a while since I have been in Blogland. Crazy few weeks.

I wanted to follow up on my E-Party. What a great success - for me and for Plum Precious Gals!

Here are the items that Kaylee got for FREE!!!

LOVE THEM!!

Please consider hosting an E-Party for Plum Precious Gals. Both husbands of the Plum Precious Gals have recently been laid off (ugh! This economy!). The Gals are relying on their Plum Precious income now more than ever! It truly was easy. I provided the company with 30 emails (the number of contacts is up to you, but the more contacts, the higher your sales and the more free stuff you earn). The company sends out the E-vites. You just sit back and watch everyone benefit...you, Plum Precious and adoption! If you are interested in hosting a party, please let me know.

Come To My E-Party!

2009-04-26T15:52:00.006-05:00

UPDATE: My E-Party ends Wednesday, May 6th in the evening. I would love to max out the Adoption Love Meter on my E-Party page. Please consider purchasing some great clothes for your little one and support adoption!

Remember not so long ago when I introduced you to a great company?

Well, I love them so much that I decided I would help them on a new venture...an E-Party!

What is an E-Party, you ask? Well, it is much like any party that an at-home business throws...you know the ones...send out invitations, make some food, clean your house, have the business person come over and talk about her product and get product credit based on what your guests purchase...EXCEPT, I didn't have to cook or clean and people didn't have to take time out of their busy schedules to come over and spend a few hours! How great is that? All I had to do was provide the company some email addresses, write a few blog posts, let my friends get on their computers and purchase some great products and...VIOLA! It's a party!

So, if you enjoy their products and would like to be a part of my E-Party (or better yet, host your own!) just come! You can crash my party!

Let's Party!

New Room Decor

2009-04-24T23:12:00.000-05:00

Wanted to share the new addition to Kaylee's room.

Once again, one of the perks of working for Love Stories.

Detail of the frame. It matches Kaylee's room PERFECTLY!

Easter 2009 - Better Late Than Never

2009-04-22T11:49:00.000-05:00

Well, I am a delinquent mother in some aspects. I neglected to take pictures of the kids in their Easter clothes.

But, here they are opening their Easter baskets...

What To Do, What To Do...

2009-04-20T11:40:00.001-05:00

She wants to blow bubbles outside...

but bugs live out there and she screams every time she sees one...

what will she do?

Update: The bugs won, she is inside reading books!

Wordless Wednesday - Strawberry Pickin'

2009-04-08T06:34:00.001-05:00

2nd Annual Birthday Tea

2009-04-05T18:44:00.005-05:00

I stole the idea from PandaMom last year.

I am making a tradition of taking Kaylee for birthday tea every year. We choose someone special to go with us...someone who played a role in her adoption or understands the importance of adoption.

This year, we took our good friends, The Winebergs.

This precious family truly understands adoption. You see, the mom had cancer in her lymph nodes at the age of 24. She went through radiation treatments that, for lack of a better term, fried her insides. She thinks now that she was OVER radiated. So, needless to say, she and her husband had to adopt. And that they did...3 times. Each one of these precious children is adopted. 3 different birth moms, 3 different adoptions makes one great family!

We love this family and we love that they joined us for our 2nd annual birthday tea!

The guest also chooses a teacup that I purchase and put in Kaylee's room.

Here is the cup that was chosen for Kaylee by these beautiful guests...

SCORE!

2009-04-03T21:55:00.001-05:00

Found some wicked cool deals at Children's Place today.

If you have one close, go.

Now.

They MIGHT Be Clueing In...

2009-03-24T20:51:00.000-05:00

Just maybe...

Then again, maybe not.

Plum Precious Clothes

2009-03-22T21:38:00.000-05:00

My girl turned 3 and we had a great party to celebrate.

Kaylee's friend, Lili, came to the party. She gave Kaylee a precious outfit for her birthday. I was so excited and asked her mom where she got it. Yvette (Lili's mom) told me that she made it.

Turns out, Yvette and a friend started a company to make these items.

The two of them met while in China adopting their precious girls. They came home, remained in touch and decided to start this company. The best part...the company donates 10% of proceeds to help with adoptions!

So. please, click on the link above, or the cute little button in the sidebar, and order something precious! Help the company and help with adoptions!

Rubber Ducky, You're the One...

2009-03-21T21:47:00.006-05:00

Kaylee is officially 3!

We had a fabulous time celebrating!

Rubber duckies everywhere...ducky fishing, ducky bean bag toss, bubble fun, a cake with a duck pond, ducky hats...

She invited her friends and they all had a great time!

Here are the highlights:

Bubble Fun:

Fishing For Duckies:

Ducky Bean Bag Toss:

Cake:

Presents:

My Friends:

Kaylee is 3!

2009-03-21T21:37:00.002-05:00

How can that be??

My girl turned 3 yesterday.

We had a great party.

Return soon to see the photos!

Kaylee's Annual Photos

2009-03-05T14:57:00.003-06:00

Love Stories is running a special in the month of March for these 2 settings. Let me know if you are interested.

In the meantime, check out my 3 year old beauty!

Holy Platelet Count

2009-03-03T20:21:00.002-06:00

Went back to the hemotologist yesterday to follow up on the allergy...er, I mean, the hives...no, wait....the serum sickness...

Her platelet count was 201,000!

She is a medical mystery!

3rd Diagnosis...

2009-02-23T13:20:00.004-06:00

Today was a regular visit to the hemotologist.

Kaylee has done so well in this area...until today. Today, she wakes up with petechia and has a nose bleed. UGH!

So, we get to his office and he looks at me and says, 'She's a mess!'

We discuss her issues today and I brought up her hives. The longer we talked and the more questions he asked, he determined that she has serum sickness and a sinus infection.

The rash, the cough (this started last Wednesday), the low platelets (yup, low number today) are all part of the serum sickness.

My poor girl...just when we are starting to see the light at the end of tunnel...

It's Hives!

2009-02-17T21:05:00.002-06:00

Well, the saga continues...

The rash was NOT from the antibiotic...

She has hives. The pediatrician says it is a 'biproduct' of her platelet issues.

We see the hemotologist on Monday.

I will let you know.

Another Med She Can't Have

2009-02-07T20:28:00.002-06:00

Last week, Kaylee complained that it hurt to go pee-pee. So, I took her to the doctor. She has a UTI and was given an anti-biotic.

Yesterday, I noticed a little welt and redness on Kaylee's cheek. Then, a while later, that cheek was cleared up and then the other was broken out...then, back to the other cheek. This happened on and off last night and most of the day today. So, I took Kaylee to the urgent care clinic.

After 3 hours in the place, we saw the Dr. (who is the father of one of my former 2nd graders - that 2nd grader is now a senior at A&M). The Dr confirmed my suspicion...she is allergic to her antibiotic!

I am going to need a book in order to write down the medicines that this girl CANNOT have!

New Year Celebrations

2009-02-02T16:14:00.004-06:00

We have been crazy, busy with Asian New Year celebrations. We still have a few more to go. I thought I would show you some photos from one of the celebrations.

Enjoy!

Gung Hay Fat Choy

2009-01-26T10:51:00.002-06:00

According to the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of 2009 is the Year of the Ox. The Ox, or the Buffalo sign symbolizes prosperity through fortitude and hard work. Those born under the influence of the Ox or Buffalo are fortunate to be stable and persevering. The typical Ox is a tolerant person with strong character. Not many people could equal the resolution and fearlessness that the Ox exhibits when deciding to accomplish a task. Ox people work hard without complaints at work or at home. They know that they will succeed through hard work and sustained efforts, and do not believe in get-rich-quick schemes.

Passed with Flying Colors

2009-01-18T18:20:00.003-06:00

Kaylee made her first trip to the dentist this week.

She did remarkably well!

She let them count her teeth and polish her teeth.

She was a big girl...part of that may have been that she got to watch Dora and Kai Lan while lying in the chair. :)

What a bave monkey she was!

Wordless Wednesday - Christmas Dress

2008-12-31T08:19:00.001-06:00

New Pajamas

2008-12-27T13:24:00.002-06:00

Auntie Gave me some cute new pajamas for Christmas.

I love them.

What do you think?

I. Have. FAILED!

2008-12-21T16:48:00.003-06:00

We had a great Gotcha Day celebration. We invited special family and friends to join with us in wishing Kaylee well. I was very selective about the guest list this year. I wanted to invite people to whom the words 'Gotcha Day' meant something, so we invited friends that have adopted or were adopted. Very special.

We had Chinese cuisine (well, not authentic, but isn't Panda Express close enough). We watched a slideshow that I made a few years back of Kaylee's journey home. We talked and had a great evening.

Here are some photos to show the highlights...

oops...

there

are

none!!

That is how I failed!

Thought about it a lot...

but never once clicked the shutter!

I wish I knew a good photographer I could have hired...

Gotcha Day 2008

2008-12-19T10:10:00.002-06:00

It was 2 years ago today that our baby girl was placed in our arms...with her forever family.

As we celebrate this day, we are praising God for His wonderfulness and faithfulness!

I think this video says what I am at a loss for words for (don't forget, you have to pause the music at the bottom of the page)!

Happy Gotcha Day, Little Kaylee!

A Busy Day

2008-12-09T17:12:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, we took a little time out to do some fun holiday things.

We first had to go to the doctor to have Kaylee's platelets checked. She read 161,000!!! Holy cow...that's unheard of! This is Kaylee's 3rd GREAT reading in a row! Could we be out-growing this?

Then, we headed to the mall.

I found Kaylee's Christmas dress. So cute! Look for pictures in another post.

Then, we saw Santa!

She was so precious and so excited! She told Santa that she wanted 'dress-up' and 'toys'.

Jake was great posing with Santa and trying to translate what his sister said.

After that, we went to Build-a-Bear. Now, I am not usually one to do this. I think they are overpriced. I recently saw a commercial where they have $10 bears. I told the kids they could choose a $10 choice without clothes. They thought that was a great idea. It really was cute watching Kaylee make her first 'bear'.

Stuffing her dog.

Warming her dogs heart.

Giving their animals baths.

It was a great day and fun was had by all.

Church Christmas Party

2008-12-07T21:38:00.003-06:00

Kaylee had a great time at our church Christmas Party this Sautrday.

She made a manger scene...

Decorated sugar cookies (not all the kids placed one sprinkle at a time)...

Made a wreath...

Then, Pastor told The Christmas story!

You know, the REAL Christmas story...

NOT Santa...JESUS!

A great time was had by all!

Gingerbread Choo-Choo Train

2008-12-01T22:03:00.003-06:00

My bubba and I had a great time making a gingerbread choo-choo train today. I hope we get to do this every year!

Hide N Seek

2008-11-25T15:29:00.003-06:00

Do you remember your first game of hide-n-seek? The running, the squeeling, the giggling, the learning where a good hiding place is, the giving yourself away...

We experienced Kaylee's first game of hide-n-seek the other day. She and her Bubba decided to spend some time playing the game. She did alright. Counted to ten, only leaving out 6 and 7, followed the dog, who gave away where Jake was, and would come out of her hiding place before Jake found her (or giggle and therefore give herself away).

I caught her in a few of her hiding places.

It was so fun to experience Kaylee's first game of hide-n-seek! I hope there are many more to come!

Elmo LIVE

2008-11-20T19:46:00.005-06:00

We took the girl to see Elmo Live, When Elmo Grows Up.

She loved it!

Here are some pics with the highlights...

Halloween Report

2008-11-03T22:30:00.004-06:00

Our Halloween was full of fun and activities...

First, we carved a pumpkin...(well, they carved a pumpkin)

Then, we quickly got dressed...

so we could attend our neighborhood costume contest.

Mr. and Mrs. Potatoe Head won Best Adult Costume and The Pirate won Best Overall Kids Costume.

Our sweet kitty did not win, but she was a winner to us!

The grandmothers were excited about the neighborhood party, can't you tell??

Michael was at the block party...

guess he didn't have any better offers...

We hope your Halloween was as fun and family filled as ours was!

Autumn Moon Festival

2008-10-15T09:16:00.001-05:00

We recently had a great time when we participated in Families with Children from China's Autumn Moon Festival.

Kaylee had a great time running and playing with the other kids and watching the puppet production...

in which her brother was able to perform!

Great time!

Swimming

2008-10-13T09:08:00.000-05:00

Turtle

2008-10-11T09:10:00.000-05:00

Have I told you lately how stubborn this child is?

I know this will serve her well some day! She is going to do well with this as an adult...

but until she gets there...God help me!

One of the things she is very stubborn about is carrying her backpack.

'No, I do it, Mommy!'

So, this is what you get when 'she do it'...

Sleeping Beauty

2008-10-09T09:05:00.000-05:00

She Knows What She Wants!

2008-10-07T17:48:00.003-05:00

The other day, my husband was trying to help me out and get Kaylee dressed for church.

It is so funny how I know what Kaylee is saying and wants because I am with her all the time. Daddy tries hard, but often asks me to interpret...

So, Daddy is trying to get Kaylee dressed and Kaylee is crying and complaining...

'Elmo panties! Elmo panties!'

'OK, I will get you Elmo panties.'

He goes to Kaylee's room and grabs some different panties. He walks back where Kaylee is and says, 'OK, let's get dressed now.'

She still is whining and pouting, 'Elmo panites! Elmo panties!'

I finally decide I need to go see what is happening.

I walk in and Daddy says, 'She keeps saying 'Elmo panties' but I have them and she is still fussing!

I look at the panties and say...

'Babe, thanks for trying, but...

these are Zoe panties!'

There is a difference...

Daddy may not know it...

but Kaylee does!

Newest Medical Update

2008-09-26T15:41:00.001-05:00

Kaylee recent had a cardiologist appointment to check her murmur.

Once again, because we have no family history, they wanted to do a full set of tests.

They found that her murmur is innocent!

Woo-Hoo!! Thank you Jesus!

Wordless Wednesday - Me and My Bubba

2008-09-24T08:32:00.000-05:00

New Medic Alert Bracelet

2008-09-19T08:26:00.001-05:00

I had a conversation with a doctor a few weeks back where he stated that kaylee should be wearing a medic alert bracelet. I had given this some thought before but was lacking in footwork.

Well, I found out that 'Transplants for Children' gives free bracelets to children in need.

So, I called them and got it taken of.

Here is the photo of my beautiful girls wrist with her bracelet on it :)

Wordless Wednesday - Bubbles

2008-09-17T07:06:00.000-05:00

TP a House - 2 Year Old Style

2008-09-15T17:08:00.004-05:00

Kaylee has been doing really well with her potty training. There have been a few times lately where she has asked to go to the potty without my initiating it.

Today was one of those times.

'Pee pee potty, mommy.'

'You need to go pee pee on the potty?'

'Yes.'

'OK, let's go'

We go to the bathroom and get her all situated on the potty.

I leave her there and tell her to call mommy when she is finished. She has done this before.

I return to Jake and school.

I wait...and wait...and wait.

Then, I hear cabinets opening in the bathroom. Odd.

I walk back to the bathroom.

This is what I see:

'Kaylee, that's being a bad girl! You don't play with the toilet paper, you call mommy and she will get you a piece.'

This is the response:

This is my solution:

I just couldn't stand there and re-roll all of that tp!

Wawermenonade

2008-09-10T13:00:00.001-05:00

Dictionary according to Kaylee: n a juicy fruit with a green rind and red meat in the melon family OR a drink made with the juice of lemons, sugar and water.

Can be used in the following ways:

1. On our picnic, we like to enjoy a seedless wawermenonade for lunch.

2. When I am thirsty, nothing tastes better than some ice cold wawermenonade.

A Milestone!

2008-09-08T11:08:00.001-05:00

We have been in dry panties for 4 days straight! :)

Woo-Hoo!!!

Interesting Thought

2008-08-31T08:05:00.000-05:00

As you may or may not know, Kaylee has a scar on her shoulder that has always intrigued us.

We will never know why she has it, but we did have an interesting encounter the other night.

We went to a San Antonio HPU Alumni Dinner. We had a nice evening enjoying a meal and conversation with other HPU alumni (only one of which I knew, btw).

We were sitting with a very nice couple who are aunt and uncle to 2 Chinese adopted girls. She asked me, 'Did her mom put any marking on her so that if they ever met again, she would know it was her daughter?'

What?

I had never heard that before.

Is that why Kaylee has this interesting scar on her shoulder?

We will never know...

Platelet Update

2008-08-28T20:22:00.003-05:00

I haven't posted about this in awhile, but it has been in the forefront lately, so I thought I hsould update everyone.

Kaylee has started a new Sunday School Class and will be starting MDO on Tuesday.

The question I have gotten from both of her teachers is, 'What do we need to know about Kaylee?'

I discussed the platelets with both teachers. Their response is, 'Oh, so we need to call you right away if there is an accident.'

To which I respond, 'Call 9-1-1 first and then call me.'

'Oh, that bad, huh?', was the response of both teachers.

Lately, the platelets have been on the rise. The last 2 doctor visits, she was 171,000. That is fabulous for our little monkey!

We have been doing a 2cc, every 3 day regimin. We will continue to do this and go back to the doctor in 6 weeks instead of 3!

Could we possibly be on the other side of this?

Keep praying!

Now THIS is a haircut!

2008-08-14T13:54:00.004-05:00

As you know, I tried to get Kaylee's haircut a while back and that didn't work out so well.

I went today and got her hair cut. She was such a big girl and loved playing in the Barbie Jeep and watching Bob the Builder as her hair was being cut!

She didn't want to leave when we were finished. I was trying to entice her by telling her, 'Let's go show Daddy your haircut.' Didn't work. 'Let's go show Bubba your haircut.' Didn't work. 'Let's go show Suzanne (my boss) your haircut.' Yup! That worked! Then I had to call Suzanne and track her down at Wal-mart so we could let Kaylee show her the new do!

I am very pleased!

What do you think?

Before:

After:

Help Bring a Boy Home

2008-08-01T12:38:00.004-05:00

Do you have some extra cash lying around?

Some coins in the loose change jar? Or maybe in the couch cushions? Found a dollar on the sidewalk?

Well, Panda Family could use it.

Go here to see what I mean.

Proud of My Daddy

2008-07-29T07:24:00.004-05:00

I just wanted to tell everybody how proud I am of my daddy.

He came home yesterday and told my mommy that he got a promotion.

I'm not sure what that big word means, but they both were very happy!

Then, they started talking about paying off bills...not sure what that means either, but again, they seemed very happy!

Congratulations Daddy. I wuz ooo!

(Show my daddy some love by leaving a comment :) )

Funny Girl

2008-07-17T20:38:00.002-05:00

Kaylee proved to be the entertainment at dinner tonight.

Situation Number 1: Kaylee was eating her spaghetti very well. She did not, however, want to eat the green beans that accompanied her pasta. David would hand her a green bean to eat. She would take the bean and place it back on her plate. He would hand her a bean, she would put it on the plate. Over and over again. It was pretty funny!

Situation Number 2: I asked Kaylee to count. She would repeat after me...'1', '1', '2', '2', '3', '3', '4', 'no', '5', 'no'...and so on until 10. We then did the same thing with the alphabet...'a', 'a', 'b', 'b', 'c', 'c', 'd', 'no' 'e', 'no' and on until z. I guess there are only certain letters and numbers that are worth her repeating!

That's our funny girl!

Proud to be an American!

2008-07-07T14:23:00.002-05:00

Shoo Fly, Don't Bother Me

2008-06-26T20:46:00.004-05:00

Just thought I would let you know that Kaylee has a flying bug issue.

Huge Issue!

Anything that flies in front of her face sends her into a crazy tailspin!

Screaming, crying, yelling 'FLY!'

It's quite a joy! Wish you could be a part!

Thankful for MDO

2008-06-26T20:37:00.002-05:00

If you read this post, you know that we had a petechia issue this week.

What you don't know is how thankful I am for Kaylee's Mother's Day Out teacher...

When I dropped Kaylee off at MDO on Tuesday, I took her in and let her teacher know that the rash on her neck was not contagious but that it was from her blood disorder. The teacher stated, 'Oh, it's petechia?' I know I must have given her the strangest look, but I was shocked that she knew the word, much less the disorder.

I left Kaylee and went to work.

Throughout the day, I kept thinking about her teacher knowing that word.

When I returned to pick her up, I asked her how she knew that word (after all, I never use that word because I usually have to explain to people what it is) and she stated that she is a nursing student!

I am so blessed that God chose her to be Kaylee's teacher for the summer!

Happy Father's Day, Daddy

2008-06-15T17:55:00.001-05:00

'I wuzoo, dadee!' (Translated, I love you, Daddy.)

Friends to Play

2008-06-13T15:04:00.007-05:00

Kaylee had her first visitors last Friday.

Our great friends came over to play.

Kaylee has 2 friends, Jake has a friend and Mommy has 2 friends...all from the same family!

We had a great time playing, eating lunch and showing our friends our new house.

Here are some highlights:

Yep, that's my girl with fairy wings on :)

Wordless Wednesday - New Playroom

2008-06-04T16:23:00.002-05:00

See other Wordless Wednesday Participants.

Once Upon A Potty...

2008-06-02T16:47:00.003-05:00

For sometime, my daughter has been interested in the potty. When mommy goes to the potty, Kaylee wants to pee-pee on the potty, too. She fusses until I sit her on the potty (with diaper and clothes still on) and she gets to 'pee-pee'. Since she is very interested, I decided it was time to try...

I don't know how successful we will be, because, in my opinion, she is a bit young, but I thought I couldn't let her interest go without trying.

I'm sure getting to pee-pee on an Elmo potty and then listen to him for a bit of encouragement will help motivate her!

UPDATE: We have had the potty 4 days and Kaylee has pee-pee'd in it 4 times! She begs me to take off her diaper so she can go sit on the potty! About 1/2 the time, she is successful! This may be easier than I thought :) !

First Haircut

2008-05-23T19:29:00.003-05:00

I took Kaylee to get her first haircut yesterday.

An old friend moved back to town...she did my wedding hair, she shaved Jake's head for his surgery, she gave Jake his first official haircut, she did my hair for years...get the point? So, she isn't officially working, but I talked her into giving Kaylee her first haircut.

I loaded up my kids and drove to her house and when I got there, she saw Kaylee, played with her curls and said, "I wouldn't cut her hair for all the world!" She said that Kaylee wasn't ready for a haircut. She said that if I cut her hair now, that I would regret it. So...

We cut off the little uneven whispy parts of her hair, but that was it!

Kaylee did really well. Actually looked cute in the cape.

Check it out!

Olympic Torch Relay

2008-04-21T10:31:00.003-05:00

A fellow FCC member shared with us some information about the path the Olympic torch will take on it's way to Beijing.

I found it very interesting.

I discovered that the torch will be in Langzhou, Gansu, China (where we met our daughter for the first time) on June 30th.

Very Cool!!

Go check it out!

Toys, Toys Everywhere!

2008-04-09T22:13:00.001-05:00

You must go check out the super give-aways at 5 Minutes For Mom!

Tea for Three

2008-03-29T17:50:00.003-05:00

My mommy took me to tea today. She has decided that we will get to do this every year for my birthday (actually, I think she stole the idea from Pandapalooza, but I think it's a good idea all the same!). She says that we will take one special friend each year.

This year, we took my Gigi (I hear that this is not her real name. I think it is Jean. I have heard that my brother could not say Jean when he was little, so 'Gigi' was born)! She is a special friend because if you take her middle name and my mommy's middle name, you get my name!

I felt like such a big girl using the knife to spread dip on my own cracker!

Mommy also says we will buy a teacup from whicever tearoom we eat each year. The special friend that we take gets to choose it for me. Gigi picked this one for me. What you can't really see is that the entire cup is pink. It is so pretty!

After all the tea and shopping, I just couldn't help but crash out in the car!

I can't wait until next year. I am already thinking about who I will invite to tea!

Makeover...

2008-03-24T17:54:00.001-05:00

In honor of Kaylee's birthday, I gave her blog a makeover. What do you think?

Great Party!

2008-03-24T12:54:00.002-05:00

We had a successful 2 year old party!

The 5 girls had a great time hunting eggs (for most of them, the first time), finger painting and eating cake. Here are a few highlights...

Thinking...

2008-03-21T14:14:00.005-05:00

As you may know, we are homeless right now, so I am hijacking my best friends house for Kaylee's party tomorrow. I went over there this morning to get everything ready and was thinking about my little girl...

I was thinking about what a perfect fit she is for our family.

I was thinking about her birthmother...the sadness she must feel at this time, the desire she must have to know where her daughter is and what she looks like.

I was thinking about how lucky I am to get to plan a party for her.

I was thinking about the clueless comments people make about Kaylee's 'situation'...like, 'How can a mother abandon her daughter?'. After all, we don't understand in America because we have the opportunity to choose abortion or adoption - both are culturally acceptable and legal (not saying that I support the former, just that it is an available option for a birth mom).

I was thinking about her birthmom having to make 'the choice'. Here are her options: 1. Abort the baby. 2. Carry the baby to term and keep her, knowing that, in her culture, girls are looked down upon and she could possibly be shunned by other family members. 3. Carry the baby to term and give her up for adoption publically and be arrested. 4. Carry the baby to term and risk everything (after all, if she is caught, she will go to prison) to find a place to abandon her...hoping and praying that someone finds her before she dies and takes her to an orphanage. What terrible choices those are! Aren't we glad Kaylee's birthmom chose number 4!

I was thinking about what a precious girl she is with such a great personality and loving sprit!

Amongst all these thoughts were the thoughts of how I will respond to what Kaylee's birthmom (and so many others) did. These are my decisions:

I will make a point at this time each year to thank God for Kaylee's birthmom and the tough choice she had to make at the time of Kaylee's birth.

I will make it a point to teach my daughter that her birthmom was a brave, loving woman who risked everything so that her daughter could live and have a loving family.

I will continue to pray for China...that the government will open their eyes and see that their 'one pregnancy' law is hurting more than it is helping.

I will continue to thank my God for the wonderful work He is doing. He is continuing to place these beautiful babies in loving homes all around the nation!

Will you pray with me?

Happy Birthday Kaylee!

Kaylee's Turning 2!

2008-03-19T23:52:00.003-05:00

Our girl turns 2 tomorrow! My, how time has flown!

Suzanne took these beautiful photos! Once again, great work!

Latest Platelet Count

2008-03-03T18:20:00.000-06:00

Went for a check-up today..

151,000!

Woo-Hoo!!!

Time To Think About Easter

2008-02-28T15:06:00.009-06:00

Wow! Already?

The other day, I sat down at the computer and ordered Kaylee's Easter dress...

and then, I ordered another one

(Hey, I couldn't decide, ok?)!

Here is what I chose...

This dress, but in all ivory...

This dress because I couldn't resist! (after all, it said 'Almost Gone')

Suzanne will be taking Kaylee's 2 year old pictures soon. Can you believe that?

(I thought that was a good enough reason to buy 2 dresses)

Kaylee's birthday is also Easter weekend...

So, I decided to have an Easter Party for a bunch of 2 year olds!

Of course, we are homeless, so the location has not been decided as of yet!

Stay tuned...

Yogurt with a Spoon!

2008-02-25T17:31:00.001-06:00

She Says 'Mama'

2008-02-21T19:14:00.002-06:00

Just a quick update on the ever-growing vocabulary of my daughter!

She now makes me happy with 'mama'! She also says dada, papa, meem, bubba, cracker, juice, cup, up, please, no, shoe, more...and more! She is even putting a few words together, 'Bubba shoe.', 'Up, please.'!

I knew her speech would eventually catch up with her. I can't believe how well she is doing!

Praise God for all He has done in this little ones life!

The Year of the Rat

2008-02-11T22:06:00.000-06:00

We had a busy week of ringing in the Asian New Year. Jake is a part of the San Antonio Lion Dance Association and they had about 11 performances this past week.

Here are some photos to show the highlights...

Jake is the red lion.

But, not this end...

This end... :)

If you feed the lion, you have good luck for a year!

Traditional Plate Dance.

The Year of the Rat

2008-02-06T21:53:00.000-06:00

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Happy New Year!

2008 is the Year of the Rat!

Those born in the Year of the Rat ('48, '72, '84, '96, '08)

are said to be very popular. They like to invent things

and are good artists.

Me, I am a Dog!

Go here to find out more!

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

The Many Faces of Kaylee

2008-02-05T16:51:00.001-06:00

Update: 5 minutes for Mom is having a Mother's Day Giveaway. I have entered this post in the contest.

This post signifies mothering to me in the fact that, in my eyes, it is a miracle that I am given the privelege to be this child's mother.

When I think of her lying on the side of the road in Gansu, China, wating to be found, it makes my heart melt. Then, she survives 9 months in an orphanage and then,

God chooses us to be her parents!

Truly, a miracle!

And I get to be her Forever Mama!

It has been awhile since I have posted any pictures (been way too into the blood!).

Since that is the case and since I had a bit of time to play with my daughter and my camera today, here you go!

The top photo is pre-bath and hair. Then, obliviously, the following are different fun hair styles. I think it is interesting how some of them make her look so young and others make her look all grown up!

Enjoy my baby's sweet face and personality!

Praise the Lord!

2008-01-25T16:56:00.001-06:00

I just received the call I have been waiting for...the hemotologist's office called to let us know that the 2 tests from yesterday came back normal!

Normal spleen, no masses in her chest!

What does this mean? We will act as normal. We will go in for blood checks (about every 2 weeks). If her platelets are above 20,000 and she has had no accidents that cause injuries, we do nothing. If either of the prior happen, we do a round of steroids to boost the platelets.

We are praising God that she is fine. We know that He is the Great Physician and has chosen this path for our daughter.

Please offer prayers of thanksgiving to our Great Creator!

Bring on the Steroids!

2008-01-21T19:22:00.000-06:00

Today was another follow-up visit with the hemotologist.

As you may remember from the last post, we had a 5 day, twice a day, steroid regimine. The doctor wanted to know if her body would respond to steroids. Well, IT DID! Her platelet count today was 128,000!!!

Woo Hoo!!!!

What's next? The doctor, although he truly believes this is ITP, wants to continue with the 2 scheduled tests (Thursday). If those both come back negative, we watch Kaylee. If she stays where she is normally (in the 40,000) and has no accidents, we do nothing. If her platelets fall below 20,000 or she has an accident that results in injury, we will use steroids to boot her platelets and help get her healthy.

I cannot begin to explain how thrilled I am about her body responding to these steroids!

Thanks for your prayers!