Hope, Faith and Izabella DanielLei (An ChunLei)

Please Read!

2012-01-06T08:32:00.001-06:00

If you are a follower of our journey to Izabella--you'll love this book --Chasing China; A Daughter's Quest for Truth [Kindle Edition] $2.99 @ amazon.com. I

It is an easy read--and I (a very slow reader) read it in a matter of hours. I can't stress enough what an important work this book is in the plight of orphans around the world. I promise it will touch you deeply--in places you never knew existed.

I believe --A good book stays with you after you turn the last page....this one did!

I'm not a huge reader or even movie-goer. I would like to be, but never find time to read or sit through a movie, and if I do, I lose interest easily. I can't watch a movie, or read a book more than once (with a very few exceptions). But those few I do get through--that I love the most--are those that get my gears moving and I can't shake it out of my head for days! The book or movie that seemed to reach into a part of my heart I didn't know existed--and bring it to the forefront in an astonishingly BIG way. Leaving me thinking about it's impact and what to do about it for days. This one--is one of those books! I'm still struggling with what to with the part of me this book touched--that's hitting me in the face everyday now that I've read it.

After finishing it--I looked at my precious daughter and couldn't separate Mia from her for days. The only word I have for that feeling is 'haunting"! Kay Bratt's ability to carry me with ease through this book-and leave me haunted by the facts in this fictional story--are a gift-to me and anyone who reads it.

I immediately wanted everyone I know--adoption family or not-to read it--so they would stop with the assumptions about the reason she is our daughter--her history. They'd open their minds and hearts to the plight of a reality that is so far from the comfort of the arms of their beautiful--but oh so protective---I'd even say cocooned-- families. I wanted them to read it so they would understand--there are so many children out there--that need the love of a family. That their life challenges are so far from our imagination--we can not begin to imagine the heart ache-the yearning they will feel--forever--not knowing. That they would open their hearts-their minds and their souls to these children--not just in China.

So--I'm writing this--in hopes--some non-adoptive families--might dare to give this book a chance. Even if you don't open your home to an orphan--that your mind would be opened to the REALITY of an orphan and be a little more sensitive to an adopted children-when you meet them in your everyday life. That they might find a way to "give back" to those that are helping these children--by donating to an organization (here are a few to check out--their work is amazing--An Orphans Wish or Starfish Foster Home, Love without Boundries Foundation, or Half The Sky Foundation) that is dedicated to helping them get the surgery they need, supporting their families so they don't need to abandon them to get their child the life-saving surgery they need. The organizations that are doing everything they can to get these children the family they need. It might seem a small donation--but it's huge in the lives of a child.

AND if you dare--follow them on facebook--their day-to-day impact plays out before you. As children are given the hope of life--some the gift of a family--all the love of someone that cares. If noting else--it's a good daily reminder--that you are blessed in so many ways--that children around the world may never know.

As we waited for our daughter's face and location to be revealed to us--I thought of her birth parents--her journey--her circumstances--but only in a way that I could understand from the comforts of America. As adoptive families--we think we know the circumstances surrounding our children's early years. We also think we will never know--and find it easier not knowing for many reasons.

BUT--the minute we met her--I couldn't shake the guilt that I was privileged to call this girl my own-love her with all my heart--all at her birth parents sacrifice. It still bothers me. And as our daughter opens up--we realize this is not something that will never be comfortable--for anyone.

This book is not for the blind adoptive parent that thinks the past should be tucked away and we should stay focused on the future. The parent(s) that believe their child doesn't remember (she/he is too young). It is for those that want the truth of the story of their child and so many orphans--not just in China. That acknowledge their deep, many times self-inflicted suffocation of that need--to remember-to know--the details of their life before they found themselves alone at such a tender age.

If nothing else--this book reminds those of us--with big wonderful western families (rich or poor)--that they have a HUGE blessing in their family. Never to be taken for granted-to be cherished-honored and respected in everyway.

Thank you Kay Bratt--not just for writing this book--but for your un-selfish service/gift to orphans in China. Your heart is special--your determination inspiring!

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Chasing China; A Daughter's Quest for Truth [Kindle Edition]
by Kay Bratt --Only $2.99 on Amazon.com

Book Overview: Mia is beautiful, talented and has the world at her fingertips. But what makes her different than the average college student who juggles a heavy workload and a rat of a boyfriend? Many years ago she was born to an unknown family in China but soon discarded to fend for herself in a busy train station. Fate stepped in when Mia was taken to the local orphanage and adopted at the age of four by her American family. Life has been good for her, or at least as much as she has allowed it to be while pushing her deep feelings of abandonment to the back of her mind. Finally she has decided that in order to move forward, she must confront her past. Mia takes a journey to the mysterious land of her birth and embarks on a mission to find answers. As she follows the invisible red thread back through her motherland, she is enamored by the history and culture of her heritage--strengthening her resolve to get to the truth, even as Chinese officials struggle to keep it buried. With her unwavering spirit of determination, Mia battles the forces stacked against her and faces mystery, danger, a dash of romance, and finally a conclusion that will change her life. 91,000 words, 344 pages.

Mommy. What's that Red Dot Right There?

2011-12-01T08:13:00.000-06:00

Izabella loves the mirror. She talks to herself in front of the mirror. She even plays with her imaginary friends in the mirror. It's so fun to watch her.

This morning she found a Red Dot between her eye brows. I looked and didn't see anything. So I dismissed it and moved on.

Later that morning--at school I saw it--the RED DOT! And I said with a bit of concern in my voice, 'Hmmmm...there is a red dot there Izabella. I wonder what that is."

She immediately responded, "Don't worry Mommy it's just a part of my body. It's ok. It will go away into my body. I think maybe it's there to help me have good ideas!"

She's so amazing how she processes things. I just love this girl. She's a gem...truly...deeply.

After leaving her at school, I couldn't stop thinking about how much I love her little mind--and how she shares her thoughts, feelings and emotions about what's going on with her and around her so freely and openly. I remembered the days when I posted on this blog and I longed for the day she could share what she was thinking about the world around her, her feelings, her beautiful mind.

Then I realized I couldn't remember what it was like when she couldn't communicate with us. I thought--how is that possible I don't remember those days--they were not that long ago.

Then I realized, it's because she has never had a problem communicating with us. She has always communicated what she wanted, what she needed and how she was feeling. Even in those early minutes, hours and days of meeting her in China. And we have always marveled at how she just knows what we're saying to her--and we just know what she's saying, needing, wanting. And we happily listen, give her what she needs and meet her needs. It's magical I tell you--and the only way I remember those days is by watching video I took of her from those days.

Magical. I love this girl beyond life itself.

Izabella's Orphanage Supporting Organization--Half the Sky Foundation--Fundraiser

2011-11-28T16:21:00.001-06:00

What can I say--except that this organization is powerful organization that's helping orphanages provide "NURTURING" care to the hundreds of thousands of orphans--just like Izabella everyday. And this give away--supports their efforts.

We are endeared to them for their support of our Izabella--although it's hard to believe--now when you see her sweet face and hear her sweet, smart and joyful voice, feel her sweet heart--she was an orphan--and they did the best they could to be sure she understood Love. And oh she does--Thank God she does.

Take a peek at this fundraiser--

There are three of these going on everyday for 12 days. This link is to Izabella's Organizations Supporting Foundation--but there are two others 'An Orphan's Wish" and "Pearl River Outreach" that do the same kind of work--and equally amazing and wonderful.

Each blog is giving away 3 different items each day--for 12 days to enter each you have to enter each.

Check it out and enter today!

http://www.thelongroadtochina.com/

Just cause I can't NOT share her sweetness with you here are a couple photos of our Sweet Izabella--two from our 2nd Year Family Day this year--we brought home Family Day gifts for her for every year til she is 18. This year she got a new chinese princess dress for HER and one for her BARBIE. From CHINA--with love from her Love Mommy and Love Daddy.

And this one from the week before we met her--oh how far you've come my sweet girl.

Mommy I need a coin!

2011-11-22T20:52:00.001-06:00

Today I had a meeting at Panera Bread. Izabella accompanies me to these meetings--thank God most of my clients are very good with doing this for me. Allows me to take care of our girl--at home. Talk about blessings. Anyway--we decided to hit the "bread bar" to pick up some of Daddy's favorite bread for dinner. While we were waiting in line. Here's what transpired next.

I: Mommy do you have cash? You can use cash mommy.

M: Yes. I know. And Yes I have cash. But we'll pay with Mommy's cash card.

Waiting patiently in line.

I: Peers into the clear box in front of her that has a bunch of coins dropped in, she looks up at me and say's Mommy I need a money for Ruby?

(Ruby is a little girl--with a heart defect--waiting for her Mommy and Daddy to come get her. They live here in our area--and we have playdates with Ruby's family during the summer. You can read their about their amazing journey to Ruby and their family here. They leave on November 25th and meet Ruby on November 28th. Caution..little Ruby is adorable! Izabella is very excited about her coming home, having a family and playing with her this summer at the park. And we will meet them at our Chinese New Years Celebration.)

M: What?

I: I need to put money in for Ruby. So she can get better.

M: Oh. Ok. Here is some money.

I: Puts it in and says, "Now I hope Ruby can get better." Then she examines the box closely--almost pressing her little nose against the little box--and says--"Mommy. Where is my coin in there? Can you see it?"

The clear box was for donations to the "Children and Families of Iowa" organization.

That girl. I'll tell you. Something else. :) Something pretty special. Such a huge heart!

This video was taken after Izabella's dance class one day a couple weeks ago. She dances in and out of dance class every week.

I was watching X-Factor tonight--the little girl Rachel on there was adopted--she was a crack baby when they made her a part of their family. Her parents were so clearly proud of her. My mind of course wondered to the day that Izabella would do something amazing as a young woman--and how I'd be busting at the seams with pride. Then I looked over at her--and realized--this girl makes me sooooo deeply proud everyday. The way she loves and cares about everyone. The way she reaches out to those that need help--prays for their health and safety--and just plain loves life--regardless of her traumatic beginnings has a beautiful and joyful heart. Everyone she meets is touched by her special heart--and I am so proud--she is ours! Thank you God for finding us Izabella.

I am proud a million times a day--no one event--no big event--can make me prouder than I am of you all day long.

Happy Family Day Izabella-Love, Your LOVE Mommy and Daddy!

2011-10-26T10:47:00.002-05:00

This is a raw un-edited Mommy's heart --my gift to my sweet daughter--on the day we honor God's Blessing of her--to us--our family.

A picture speaks a thousand words. What a difference two years makes.

Izabella and Mommy--Just a few hours after we met our precious, precious girl in Xi'an City, Shaanix Province, China -- 2-years ago today.

Izabella and Mommy--October 2011

We have all grown in this past 2 years together as a family of 3. We've aged considerably, she has taught us so many things about ourselves and the world around us--and she has adjusted and grown by leaps and bounds. You can see the maturity in her face. She's as JOY-ful as always. What you don't see is how brilliant she is in so many, many ways.

--Her wobbly little legs are now strong and powerful. Where she initially couldn't walk with much stability--she now races up and down the sidewalk giggling and laughing with no fear of falling and great confidence.

--She's been dancing since our first days together--her stand in place wiggle has transformed to the most beautiful graceful movements that show signs she is going to be an amazing contemporary dancer-with all the emotion of a matured dancer years her senior.

--Her little confused and scared heart--has revealed itself to be the most loving, sweet heart we have ever witnessed.

--She always understood what we were saying to her. This--even not knowing a lick of english in her life. But her language now--is up with her 4.5 year old peers in school. So much so--the teacher didn't realize she had only been submersed in english for just 22 months at the start of school. And those language skills have proved a gift--to unlocking her memories--still fresh in her little mind--like all these little ones--giving us a little glimpse into what her life was like the day she said goodbye to her China Mommy and Daddy and her nannies the day we met her.

With all the challenges this presents to us as parents on the recieving end of this information from our precious sweet baby girl--and the fact that as much as we read--we felt completely incompetent. All we could do--and as instructed by professionals that know much more than we do about these things--was walk through the door to her past--and be there with her--hold her and hug her. It was her first waking moment of grieving (previously--her greiving was done at night during sleep--in the from of night terrors--that she didn't remember the next morning.) This is a new development this year and a mile stone in ability to let go and reconcile with her past. Of course we know there is more to be done in this area--a lifetime of reconciling--as she grows and matures. However, it was as if sharing this memory with us--released her to be "sad"and released her to move on to the next step for her--in trying to make sense of this crazy life she finds herself in.

--She continues to blow our minds with her ability to process her traumatic past and every situation she finds her little self in. A gift that serves her well in dealing with her past as well as the sometimes crazy world around her, and will serve her well all the years of her life.

Here is a little "bit" I wrote and never posted about how she has processed her new family--her China family--and all the things that have happened in her short 4-year life--well this is pretty phenomenal! She has taught me so much--thank you Izabella for sharing your heart and your wise soul.

"Mommy, tell me about the day I was born." This has to be the question of the summer. Initially I thought she was asking about her China Mommy. So I would tell her I can't tell her about that day because I wasn't there. Her China Mommy and Daddy were there with her. Then I'd tell her--her story--of how we can assume somethings--mostly that they loved her. This is a gift for her--that is a question mark for so many--but her story is one of sacrifice to give life. Then I'd tell her the story of how she grew in my heart and how we came to meet her in China and bring her home. As the summer progressed, she'd ask me to tell her that story--and I'd happily oblige. Recently, she asked me again, "Tell me the story about the day I was born, the day you came to China to get me." Wow. She has processed all this information as factual as I can give it to her without embellishments, and age appropriate as I can--to the point where she now refers to the day we met--as the day she was born. Here words. Her conclusion. Precious I tell you.

That day was like giving birth. Complete with all the gripping each others hand as we approached the Xi'an City Airport. I thought Dan would break every finger on my hand. I'll never forget that part. Walking into the hotel room to see a crib set up--empty waiting for the arrival of our little girl. Settling in our hotel room as our new home--away from home--preparing the perfect place to bring her home. The rush across a crazy busy street to the big Chinese Government building--Civil Affairs Office. Asking our guide where she was, she replied--"she's on her way here." To the moment when she appeared in the room on the hip of her Ayi and all I could say was, "Oh she's beautiful!" I imagine--that is what I would have said in the delivery room--if i gave birth to her of my body. Just like a babe covered with the blood and fluids of the mothers womb--our girl was dressed in clothes that were very boyish--she needed a bath--and was covered with scratches and scars. I wouldn't even notice any of that--until much later when we looked back at pictures of her. She was simply beautiful to us--so much so we called her from the day we met her (she was "born" as she puts it) "Our Chinese Princess".

One evening during our nightime routine"Mommy Izabella Chat" she wanted to talk about the day we met her in China. I asked her what she remembered about that day. She said, "Oh. I didn't like Mommy. I just like Daddy."

That's right. I asked her why and she said, "You not look like me Mommy." Of course, how silly of me to not know that. Surely my green eyes were a scarey sight to a little girl in a world full of brown eyes and black hair. Even the locals wanted pictures with me--and it was then I realized--like her--it must have been my green eyes. When I'm happy-they are really green. I"m sure they were super green that day. Then she said, "But you look like me now Mommy." Ahhhh.... :)

She now says--I have TWO Mommies and TWO Daddies! ONE--China Mommy and ONE Love Mommy (that's me.) ONE China Daddy and ONE Love Daddy. These are her words--I never like the label Forever Mommy--so we don't use the term Forever Family or Forever Mommy or Forever Daddy here. In doing so--we allowed her to come up with her own description of what label she wanted to give us. Frankly--I think it's precious. As demonstarted in the above story

--She bonded with Daddy from the start--as evidence in this photo the first day we met her--headed to our hotel HOME--her sweet little hand wrapped around his back--so loving and trusting. Her bond with Daddy this past year has been a miracle to watch. She is the center of her Daddy's world--he's lost without hearing from her while at work. She has his sense of humor and loves to giggle and be "silly and goofy" with him. Their favorite game on the phone each day she calls him--and says, "Hello. Hello? Are you there? Are you there?" repeat refrain...over and over again. No matter what a bad day he's having--I hear his voice lifted to the heavens in JOY when she does this.

"Izabella your Daddy sent a very special text to me this year--I want to share it with you. He said, "I know I've told you this before but, thank you for brings Izabella into my life. She makes me laugh and I hope that never changes. She is the best thing that ever happened to me."

--Her humor is balanced with a compassionate, sensitive side. Dad and I like to say she got the best of both of us--his humor and my sensitive nature. This morning is the perfect example of this. We discussed today is Family Day--and how we'd celebrate. Here's how we started our day.

Mommy: "Good Morning Izabella!" Hair all mussed and in her face--so much so I couldn't see her precious face. As I whissped it away from her face and gleefully telling her I found you my little Izabella.

I: A groggy- "Good Morning Mommy! I so tired! I not sleep good."

Mommy: "Ahhh...I'm sorry. Then go back to sleep." As I snuggled her in tight to my chest to love on her rubbing her back.

I: "No Mommy. Isn't it Family Day today?!"
Mommy: A tear rushed to my eye, the world stopped for a moment, my heart warmed so sweetly, as I replied--my voice cracked-EVER so slightly--"Yes it is."

I: Her head buried in my chest, my arms wrapped so tightly around her--I couldn't hold her close enough, she said, "Mommy have happy tears?"

Mommy: The emotions flooded my eyes, my chest tightened with deep emotion, as I said, 'Oh yes. Mommy have happy tears. I am soooo very glad you are here with us--and that God found us YOU and we met you 2-years ago today. So VERY HAPPY." The truth is--no only was I overwelmed with pure and utter Joy of the kind I have experienced so often since we met her--but I was stunned yet again--that she is so sensitive--that she could "HEAR the tears" in my voice--when I utter just three little words--and tried to conceal it from her even. She is so amazing and so sweetly, compassionately and genuinely sensitive and loving.

I: "I love you Mommy. Forever and ever!"

Mommy: "Oh me too Izabella. I love you too--forever and ever."

I: "Mommy tell me about the day I was born."

Mommy: "Ok...well....let's get you ready for school and I'll tell you all about it." And we did. As we dressed, brushed our teeth, jumped in the car, buckled up and headed to school...all throughout she'd say over and over again, "Then what happened Mommy? What happened next Mommy?" In the car on the way to school--we got to the day she walked through the door in the arms of her Nanny and she was so scared....

I: She stopped me and said, "But Mommy my China Daddy told me it would be ok."

Mommy: "Really? That's great. Was your China Daddy there with you? Or could you not see him--just hear him?"

I: "Oh I just look up at the sky and I hear him in my ear." as she looks to the sky through her window and points to her ear. "Mommy, wouldn't be cool if we could all be together in the same place?"
I don't know if she meant her China Daddy (bio father) or God her Daddy in heaven. She talks about God talking to her all the time. She even thinks God lives in China taking care of all the children without families and she wants to go be with Him and help them. I didn't clarify with her. I just left it alone.
In the parking lot--we had to wrap up the story--so...

Mommy: "At the end of the day we met you--after you had met many of your new family on the computer from our hotel room, we put you in a warm fuzzy PINK pj's and you snuggled down on Daddy's chest and fell fast asleep." As captured in the picture below--NOTE--she is holding tight to those keys--the ones she wouldn't put down from the moment we gave them to her in the Civil Affairs Office--even when she went potty. She loved them--still does--Daddy just changed the batteries for her. The "beep, beep" that sounded like a rickshaw (ironically our ride back to the hotel after meeting her was in a rickshaw) horn--the symbol almost completely worn off with wear from her pressing so much. Eventually, she learned--it was HERS and no one was going to take it away. Just like our LOVE--it's hers for ever--no one will take it away.

I: As we entered the school foyer--the director of the school greeted us. She let go of my hand and ran towards her yelling, "Did you know I fell asleep on my Daddy chest in China?"

Ahh.....sweet girl. :) I was sure to share with her teacher this was our Family Day--thinking she would be sharing it a lot today. The teacher replied that YES--she heard all about it yesterday. Very exciting. I said, "Yes it is. We will celebrate tonight." And I quickly headed out the door--choked up all the way to the car--with the un-shakeable overwhelming feeling of gratitude and pure JOY that God had Blessed us so extraordinarily!

She finally started naming her "babies" (stuffed animals). This beautiful lamb-given to her by one of my best friends from high school and her family, Laura--she has named "Franny." Ironically, it is the first baby to get a name--other than her horse CHINA, that was named in the store before we bought him. :)

--She is now--43 pounds, 42" tall. But, she is soooooo little here--just 28 pounds and 30"tall! I am always amazed when I see these images of her at 28 months and so tiny. Now 2 years later--a full grown 4.5 year old! Crazy I tell you.

I will close with the same closing as the post from China the day we met--cause I still feel the same way--would only add--her beauty continues to astound us--inside and out this girl is a gift of immeasurable value. I am deeply grateful--so deeply:

Love,

Izabella's mom! I'm a MOM! Finally! and never imagined it would be to such a beautiful chinese princess! I love her beyond words!

OK...I can't stand it any longer...

2011-10-04T08:25:00.001-05:00

....the sight of my precious Izabella's blog untouched except a few "mistake" postings from my phone. It has been a really hectic, sometimes very stressful summer. But through it all...Izabella continued to have fun at just about anything--including playing happily by my side in my studio, and grow, and laugh and learn more than I think a 4-year old can learn in one summer. She has astonished us in so many ways.

We are creeping quickly up on our 2nd Anniversary Family Day--the most amazing day of my life, our lives. The day we met the most precious little girl anyone could possibly ask for--October 26. I will post an update soon and an anniversary post for sure. But, I just have to share some little things she's done and said recently.

This morning! Izabella said, "I have two Mommy's--a China Mommy and a Love Mommy!"

Over the summer she's become aware of her skin color--Izabella has recently been talking and asking a lot about skin color. The other day she came running into my studio and said, "Mommy Look. I have white skin on this side of my arm like you--and peach skin on this side." Big smiles.

You know how the inside of your arm is a lighter color than the outside--she was thrilled to have a little of us and a little of her all in one Izabella.

We were at the park on Sunday--and there was just one other boy there. Izabella loves the sand box and was playing with her toys--when the boy approached. I told her she could share her toys with him--if he would like to play. This is the conversation that insued:

Izabella: Hi! My name is Izabella. What's your name?
Jackson: My name is Jackson.
Izabella: Hi Jackson. I'm from China.
Jackson: I figured as much.
Izabella: --giggles--and proceeded to pull out some toys from her bag--then she got to her sand dump truck "And I have a BIG TRUCK. Just like the one my Daddy has a work! It's really big! Do you have a Daddy?"
Jackson: No I don't have a Daddy.
Izabella: Oh? Who is here with you?
Jackson: My Mom. She's right there with my Dog.
Izabella: Oh! I'm here with my Mommy too. What is your Dogs name?

About 15 minutes into playing together--really sweetly--she yelled--hey Mom her Mommy is a Boy. Yikes what? Geeez....turns out--Jackson had two Mommies too--no Daddy--and the Mommy at the park was soooo nice and a very loving Mom. We had a wonderful conversation while we watched our children play. Later, I explained that Jackson had two Mommies too--she thought that was pretty sweet!

"Mommy. I have a question." This usually means she has something to tell me. And usually it's pretty fun to listen to."

"Mommy. Did you know that when butterflys go to sleep and die they lay some eggs out. Then the eggs move and do the work and become brothers and sisters and do what their Mommy and Daddy did all over again."

We went to the grocery store on Sunday. Izabella loves to help me with all things! And frankly--I love having her next to me to do it all. We opted to drive up for our groceries--as the parking lot is a pretty scarey place--trying to navigate the cart full of groceries and a 4 year old at the same time. But even without a cart--I'm always focused on getting us to the care safely--buckling her up--and answering her million questions as we go. I then made my way to the exit to go home--when I hear Izabella say, "Mommy! We don't have our GROCERIES." Oh goodness--God was so good to me to give me a 4-year old when I was 50 something! She fills in where my memory lacks.

"Mommy. I miss my lovin'!" This is the sweetest thing to hear. She--loves her Mommy and Daddy lovin' and can't get enough of it and we I can't love on her enough. Can you tell by this pic below--on our 12th Anniversary--September 25th.

I: Mommy. I want to go to be with God.

Oh Izabella, if you went to be with God, I wouldn't see you anymore and I'd miss you sooo much!
I: No Mommy. I just go to China and be with God and help him take care of all the girls and boys that don't have a Mommy and Daddy.
She talks about God and Jesus alot when talking about China. "God found me and took me to the Pink Castle. Then he found my Mommy and Daddy." "Jesus was with me in the hospital when the God fixed my heart." When I ask her if she was scared living in the pink castle with no Mommy and Daddy she always responds promptly and confidently, and I'd say even matter of factly, "No Mommy God was with me. I wasn't scared."

Playing with her play doctor's kit, she invented a oxygen mask--from 1/2 of a plastic easter egg shell. She held it up to my face and said, "Mommy. Breath. You feel better." I wondered how she knew this, so I asked her. She said, "Oh. Doctor tell me." I asked what doctor she was referring to. She said, "He look like me Mommy. You know black hair and black eyes." At the hospital? I asked. "No. At the Pink Castle."

We did our nighttime routine--she settled into her toddler bed--I into the couch to "sit for a little bit" (as she says to me every night) with her. It was pitch black--I was dozing off--when I felt little fingers on my arm and Izabella saying, "Mommy. Can I nuggle a little bit?" Absolutely. It has become a pretty regular thing now--we "nuggle" (snuggle) together on the couch for a bit. Then when she's ready she'll say, "Mommy. I go to my bed now?" and off she goes.

I: "Mommy. I want to be on the-X."
What's the X?
I: You know that show they sing on?
Oh. X-Factor.
I: Yes! Mommy. When I grow up. I'm going to be on the X-Factor and ALL the judges are going to say YES and I'll be a TV Star.

She does love to sing and dance! You never know.

We were headed to the Omaha Zoo--and just before we got there. Izabella said, "Mommy. I'm so excited! I'm so excited my eyes and my whole body are going to come right our my eyes!" Then as we approached the pumpkin patch recently--she said, "Mommy. I'm so excited my eyeballs are going to come right out of my head forever and ever!" As we got closer--to the pumpkin patch--she proclaims perched atop Dan's shoulders, "Is this cool or what Mom!? Is this cool or what?"

She was playing with her baby dolls on the floor directly behind my chair in my studio when I heard her talking to her baby, "Don't worry baby. It will be alright. I will NEVER EVER LEAVE YOU."

We were grocery shopping one day--after a visit from my sister Shelly and her husband Topher. Topher's favorite vegetable is Brussel Sprouts. So we had some during their visit. As we were gathering our produce she said, "Mommy. Can we get some Brussel Sprouts?" Ahhh...yeah...we can.

"But Mommy. I'm just a little girl. I can't do that."

"Mommy. We need to have a little talk." with her hands firmly on her hips--looking up at me in complete seriousness.

"Mommy. I'm going to miss "tana" (our dog Montana) when she go to heaven to be with God. I don't want her to go to God yet."

One Sunday morning we were all laying in bed being silly and just hanging out. We had just found out a few days earlier--one of her little friends still at the orphanage in China--had finally found his family. Izabella had been praying for her friend "Ma Teng" for months and months. After we received the good news--that night I told her she didn't need to pray for Ma Teng to have a family anymore. I used it as a way to show her God listens to our prayers when we pray--and He answers. Then a few days later--in bed that Sunday morning--Izabella looks at me and said, "Mommy. I prayed to God and asked him to let your Daddy and your Grammy out of heaven. And he said Yes!"

So many things to write down..so little time. More later...promise Izabella.

The girl loves her dance class!

2011-07-28T15:11:00.001-05:00

Thanks Aunt Chelle for the tutu and slippers they fit perfect.

2011-07-10T12:53:00.001-05:00

A very special honor...to be published on...

2011-06-24T21:40:00.009-05:00

"We Are Grafted In".

It's like being published in "Martha Stewart Magazine"--only better--it's not about "home-making tips" it's about "Making-homes-for-children without one - tips". One family at a time.

This website was the vision of a very special friend that you've heard me mention many times, our story here, on my blog--Kelly--she sent us the picture of Izabella hoping she might be our daughter--the night before our agency called with a referral to the same little girl! God uses this faithful christian woman in ways that are so deeply moving.

If you've adopted, waiting or paper-chasing, thinking about adoption as a way of growing your family, or even if you're just curious about all the ups, downs, twists and turns of adoption--this site is one you'll want to follow--it will not disappoint you, it is sure to move you, you will occasionally find some comfort when you read a post from a mom that's feeling the same way you are--and you thought you were alone. It will enlighten ALL. It's a very spiritual site that advocates for orphans--just as God calls us to do. As he laid on my heart to do.

Today--I am honored to have a post--published on this site. I am humbled, honored and blessed with this--truly. Deeply.

Visit and see us today--on this special site.

AND just cause pictures of our Izabella is what most really want to see--and the published post is titled "Mommy"...here's a picture of our Izabella and I during a visit with our very, very special friends Shayna, Stella, and Zophia.

Shayna and I have been friends since 1995--However, I actually knew her family before I knew her (when she was assigned to work with me from our West Union Headquarters office--in our WDM office--she was my marketing assistant.) Since then--her family has become like my second family--before I met and married Dan and brought home Izabella--and I love them all dearly--and they are so good to me--as I have moved through some very important milestones in my life--they are always there for me/us now.

Needless to say--we were friends when we were both single, we'd often talk about getting married and having a family. I about adoption, of course. We talked about how it would be so great to have children the same age to play and grow up together. Of course we don't have control of such timing--but as God would have it--Zophia was born in February of 2006. As the years rolled by--it was looking less likely we'd realize that wish. A year later--we started our journey to adopt Izabella from China--3 years later we brought home a 28 month old daughter--that is just over a year younger than Shayna's Daughter Zophia. So...it always moves me--when we get together and I see the girls play. God is sooo good.

A little Disco anyone? Too funny. She loves to dance--and she's actually getting pretty good too.

This is one of my favorite all time pics--"our girls"!!!

My Silly Girl!

Shayna and her two daughters, Zophia and Baby Stella--Precious!

That Baby Stella is such a sweetheart!!!

This is my favorite picture of zophia--she was so excited
to take a picture with her friend Izabella and her Mommy!

Ride girl ride

2011-06-04T15:08:00.001-05:00

Oh Goodness!

2011-06-03T09:02:00.000-05:00

Last night Izabella and I were having a fun little chat about this and that. When she said something hilarious. She's obsessed with brothers and sisters--as you know by previous post. Here's what she said.

"I'm going to have a brother and a sister. Well maybe not a brother. But a little sister. She's in China. We'll just go get her. But I'm not going back to China. She's at the Honda Dealer!"

The other day we were visiting our dear friends Zola and Gary in Elm Creek. I was helping Zola on her computer--and Izabella was fluttering around us. When she stopped and played with my hair as she said, "I love you Mommy. I'm going to have a little brother." Zola said, "You are?" She said, "Yes. He's in China. We'll just go to China and BRING HIM HOME. But I'm not going back to China."

And one last cute story.

We have so many sweet fellow adoptive families that have become friends--although we have never met some of them. Several of them are in the process of going back to China to bring home their second child. So, we have been praying for these families and children every night. One of the children we've been praying for "Little Chloe's" family went to China a couple weeks ago to meet her and bring her home--they are on their way home as I type this.

This is how prayer time went the day I told her Chloe was meeting her parents and would be home soon!

Izabella prayed, "God Thank you for Hope, Sarah, Joshua and Ruby find Mommy and Daddy soon!"

I said, "Don't forget Chloe! Chloe needs your prayers too."

Izabella replied, "Silly Mommy. Chloe doesn't need any more prayers. She has her Mommy and Daddy now. She's not in China anymore and she even has two sisters!"

Ahhhhh....out of the mouths of babes!

(Pic of Izabella--at the Air Force Graduation Ceremonies last weekend.) Post coming of our graduation/birthday weekend! )

Izabella's first Theater Movie....

2011-05-28T17:50:00.002-05:00

As part of her birthday--we took Izabella to her first movie at the big theater! We saw "Rio"--an adorable movie about a Blue Macaw bird that can't fly and is an endangered spieces. She was so good--she sat patiently and quietly through the whole movie--and after we got out she said, "Let's go to another movie!"

Then as we headed back to the car--through the mall--she ran all the way "flapping her arms like wings" -- trying to fly, just like Blue! I think she had a great day!

Izabella's first Mall Ride...

2011-05-28T17:00:00.002-05:00

Izabella has walked past these rides a lot of times in the past 1.5 years home and never once asked to ride. But yesterday--her 4th birthday--she asked to ride and we obliged. I thought it was interesting she picked the school bus ride rather than the horse or the boat. The girl LOVES anything to do with school!

Now that's a tall ride!

2011-05-27T18:36:00.000-05:00

It's a tower...

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

Izabella's last day of school was today and the planned park picnic and playdate was rained out--so it was inside at the school. The kids were not short of fun though--fun with empty yoguart cups--seriously fun--for me too. I'd love a basket of these at home--if I had a basement play area for them--a bit of a mess to pick up after the fun. Oh well--nothing good comes easy right?

As you can see, Izabella took a unique approach this fun activity--instead of building the "castle" like others--she built a TOWER taller than her. Just as I got around to taking the picture it started to fall--so she saved it just in time.

Looking forward to summer. Izabella will have some fun at the an art studio for a week of over the top art classes, ballet and gymnastic classes, summer camp at the zoo, and some fun group playdates with our families of chinese children group. Should be fun to watch her experience the "summer".

A flower for Mom...

2011-05-20T08:38:00.001-05:00

A few things Izabella says...

2011-05-16T17:28:00.003-05:00

It's another post about things she says. I know. I know. Not again. But I have to document these things--and realized why the other day when I she said something really remarkable--and I tried to remember previous things she said when we were first home. Of course I remember the "I you you" (which was her way to say I love you). But I drew a blank on others. So...

The other day when putting her shoes on to go to school. Out of the blue came this little conversation.

I: Mommy I'm from China.

M: Yes you are. Where in China are you from?

I: With God.

Whenever we talk about China--she always insist she lived there with God.

Another day, she was scared of something. I told her it's ok to be scared, it makes us alert to things around us--that might hurt us. So we proceed with caution. But we can't let it stop us. It then occured to me--she might have been afraid in China--although she never expresses any fear. And I so want her to talk about any fears she has or concerns she has. Or at least feel open to talk abot it--so I asked--

M: Izabella were you scared when you were in China?

I: Said with such insistence, "No Mommy! I had God! I wasn't afraid at all!"

M: OK then--I won't worry about it then. But you would tell me if you were frightened of something and needed to talk about it right?

I: Yes. I will. I understand.

I was interviewing her the other day about her favorites. Just to see where she's at on things.

Her favorite color is still pink.
Her favorite food is still noodles.
Her favorite thing to do is "help mommy".
Her favorite friend is "God".

Amen.

The other day we visited a Chinese restaurant--we love chinese food (well the american-ized version)--and have our favorite places. Often Izabella will request it. We just love the woman that owns "Mandarin Grill and Sushi Bar" --Jade. She's so good to us and just adores Izabella. And she always gets down to Izabella's level and opens her arms to her and offers a hug. Izabella always does it with much hesitation. We haven't been there recently--and I was curious how Izabella would react. She has been home almost as long as she was lived in the orphanage--and which they say means they're likely settled into who they are by this point. We've seen huge changes in her--especially lately. She's more shy with strangers a good sign for our bonding process (she used to be so friendly with strangers it made us a little nervous--bonding wise--we knew this was to be expected early on), and she just seems like she was doing 'GREAT". Well think again--she was again very nervous about Jades welcome hug. Jade and I talked about it--and she understood the fears she might have. And was very good about it all.

After we got home-I thought I should talk to her about this. She has never been comfortable around Asian women. I remember at one point home--I was chatting with a neighbor family that is from China and she refused to look at them--clung to me--and was very upset while we visited. Once we were on our way again--she was back to herself again. So I tried to talk to her about it a little:

M: Why are you so nervous when Jade wants to give you a hug?

I: I'm afraid Mommy.

M: Afraid of Jade? She is our friend, she wouldn't hurt you, and Mommy and Daddy are right there with you.

I: I not want take me. And I never see Mommy and Daddy again.

Obviously, I assured her she would never, ever lose us--we were here a family forever and ever. And not to worry about that. I promise. I do. Forever!

Oh goodness. Breaks my heart. Bless her little heart.

To end on a good note:

I: Mommy.

M: Yes Izabella.

I: I have a question.

NOTE: When she says "question" she means I want to "tell you something".

M: Ok. What's your question.

I: Can I love on you Mommy? I want to love on you!

M: Ahhhhh...ABSOLUTELY!

I heard a bird!

2011-05-16T14:03:00.004-05:00

Izabella loves birds. Today they went on a nature walk at preschool. When they got back to the classroom they each did a drawing.

As you can see--Izabella drew this simple and beautiful bird. I love her innocent interpretation of the birds feathered wings and little legs.

In art college, I learned how to recognize an educated line. An educated line is the way an artist puts the lines on the paper to create a drawing. The theory is--you can recognize a line drawn by an educated artist--it has a certain air of purpose and intention about it. That said, "Izabella's lines--as un-educated as they are--are so sweetly innocent and careful. And I like them better! So delicate, simple and understated--and I see a bit of confidence in them as well.

I love it, so I had to share the sweetness.

She's come so far in a short period of time. It's shows in all kinds of ways.

Izabella's Mommy! She's beautiful!

2011-05-14T21:46:00.001-05:00

Don't you think? I do! Love our girl!

Oh! Aunt She-wee!

2011-05-12T06:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Little Sister!

So much to do...about everything!

2011-05-11T09:43:00.008-05:00

Warning! Very long post--lots to catch up on for our girl's journal.

We have been soooo busy! And delightfully so! This is a long update--but a fun one. Izabella's preschool class learned about pets in the month of April. The teacher offered each student the opportunity to bring in one of their pets to share. Needless to say, she was over-joyed to be able to share her puppies with the class. Remember at the first of the year--when sharing about herself--she brought pictures of her family--including her puppies. Two dogs was too much to handle--so she had to chose one--and it was Montana. Montana was the perfect dog--letting the kids hug and kiss on her--pet her, all 14 hands at once it seemed at times. She even did a couple commands for the class. Pretty fun day indeed.

A BIRTHDAY PARTY for her friend Lily! Izabella had a blast and at the end of the party she said to Lily's mom, "Thank-you. Will you come to my birthday party and bring a present?" Ahem...yeah. Well.....

Lily was so excited to see Izabella arrive. It was so sweet.

After lots of games and fun inside--they had a birthday cake and juice picnic outside--it was a gorgeous spring day!

Then it was time to say good-bye. :) For now.

A trip home to VERMONT to meet my family and friends!

What a trip. It's a 22 hour drive from Iowa--and we always do it in one straight drive--we wondered how Izabella would do. She was a dream. Actually she managed it much better than us. I knew it would be strange for her to not have "bed" time when it was night time. So I packed a bag with her blanket/pillow/favorite stuffed toy (of the month since she has so many favorites now) and her jammies. When it was time for bed, I explained, we'd get ready for bed and she'd sleep in her car seat--while Daddy and Mommy drove. When she woke up we'd have breakfast and be at Aunt Shelly, Topher and Grammy's house. She said, 'Nah. I'll wait and put jammies on at Aunt Shelly's house." After some more explaining--she snuggled in my arms for a little, I sang her favorite lullaby--and she out out like a light until just before we got to my sisters house. So she was rested for the day! Opposed to Dan and I were wiped out. So we decided then and there--we would stop half way on the way home. We did and it was a good thing--we had a horrible storm in Toledo, OH (our halfway point) so driving would have been miserable.

But...we made it fine--and it was soooooo good to see my mom and my sister. The next day we had an Open House for friends and family to come and meet Izabella. It was so fun to share her with everyone. And they were all soooo good to her and to us. I can't thank everyone enough. This picture is one of my all time favorites--if you look in the background you'll see a mountain--that's just a slice of the breathtaking views she has from her property. It's truly beautiful. We had some SNOW through out our visit--that was a bit crazy. A power outage with a downed powerline that trapped us up on the mountain for the night--with two guest stranded with us for the night.

Daddy gets the "Izabella Spa Treatment" for getting us to Vermont safely. As you can see--Daddy needed some serious shut eye--after driving for 22 straight hours. And Izabella was happy to offer some spa treatment as well.

"Shhhh....Daddy's sleeping!" It's important to note--those things on his face--they are the dogs toys--YUCK. He's such a good sport.

My youngest niece--(little brothers' daughter), Ashley, has a little boy--just 1 year old. It's hard to believe we are mothers at the same time. Life is full of miraculous surprises. She is an amazing mom--and her little Ryan is truly precious! We so loved seeing them!

Can you tell my niece is in love with this little guy?

Love this shot of the two of them!

But..this one is my favorite--look how Izabella is trying to catch him before he falls. She is so sweet.

When I answered the door and it was my high school friend Kim I jumped up and down with JOY! I literally did! I was THRILLED to see her and meet her beautiful daughter Erica! Wow what a great job she's done raising that precious young woman. We had such a great visit, catching up. I don't think we've see each other in 20 years--but it seemed like yesterday--and if I showed you a picture of her when we were in high school--you'd not know a day had passed! She is a breast cancer survivor--and I am so inspired by her and her story. This year our "Trick-or-Treat for the Cure" jug will honor her! I can't wait!

They brought Izabella an easter basket--and Kim's daughter Erica played with Izabella for quite a while. As you can see Izabella was thrilled! Erica is a sophmore at UVM studying mechanical engineering. I was so impressed with this young woman.

Topher's Family Welcomed Izabella in a Royal way! Anna and her mom Jennifer gave Izabella--a twirly princess skirt--Izabella LOVES skirts that twirl! And a bead kit to make some fun necklaces for accessories! Seriously they know how to take care of a princess.

OK..this is actually a little embarrassing--but--funny and we really think it's pretty cool. Look closely (not at me--I'm exhausted and look just awful) and you'll see we had on the same shirt. You say--"So.This happens." Well, it gets better. We didn't know we were wearing the shirts--yes. But she bought her shirt in Vermont--and I bought mine in Iowa. Hmmm....we always do this--at least once a visit--we'll come down with the same outfit on. Completely un-knowing we're doing it.

And of course Izabella had to get in on the action--afterall, SHE HAD A WHITE shirt on too! That makes her a part of the joke right? :)

PS--it gets even better--My mom and I also, that same day, wore the same button down over our shirt--yup--different color--same shirt. LOVE IT--that's what I call Sister, mother, daughter bonding!

Handing down the PRINCESS title...I wish I had more photos of Izabella opening her gift from her special cousin Britney. You see...as a little girl, I used to call Britney "little princess". When we returned home from China with our little Chinese Princess, Britney told me she had a very special gift for Izabella--she was passing down the title of princess to her..with a REAL Tiarra and Princess Training Manual and a Princess music CD to train by. It was a precious gift--and deeply meaningful. I don't think Izabella understands the full sweetness of this gift--but she sure does love that book and the tierra--and dances to that princess music daily!

Thank you Britney--You will always be a princess.

Aunt Shelly, Uncle Danny, Daddy, and Mommy all read this book to her over the course of a few days! She LOVES, LOVES, LOVES it!

I told you my sister lives up on a mountain--well that means lots and lots of trees--some of which were in danger of falling in high wind storms and hitting powerlines and one or two had already fallen and come dangerously close to her house. She has tried to find someone willing to come up and put those trees down for her--but no one was willing--for fear of hitting the house or powerline in the process. But, thankfully, my Dan has a lot of experience in putting down trees around homes and high voltage lines--so he and my sister--who also has a lot of experience cutting down trees with my Dad when we grew up--dropped over 35 trees around her house and driveway! Only one tree leaned into a powerline--the power company came out and took care of it without a lot of trouble. They did this "tree project" over a matter of 4 days while we were there--carefully picking their time--when the wind was dead and it was safest. So, my mom and my sister and brother-in-law are all safer now that those trees are down.

Here's some pics of them taking down some trees. Keep in mind--these trees are a minimum of 100 feet tall! I couldn't get any pics of them up and full view to the top.

After the last tree was down--this one rotten one--sat at the top of her flower garden--so Dan left the trunk long--and carved her house address number in it "72". It was a surprise--and Shelly loved it--so did Chris. Unfortunately--Chris couldn't make it home while we were there--but he made it home last weekend and said was ecstatic about the difference this project makes for them.

My hubby and my sister--two of my favorite people in the whole world--standing by their stump. A job well done.

My Aunt Marion lives on a Dairy farm in central Vermont. She is very ill, so we went to see her. Izabella was introduced to her first real live cows. She loves horses--so I thought she'd love cows--but she was rather skid-dish about them. I have some fun video--I need to do another video clips movie of her soon.

It's a beautiful farm. With chickens and cows and everything.

Here she is finally warming up to them--and clapping to get their attention.

Inside we had a nice cup of coffee and a wonderful visit with my Aunt.

My Aunt has sent so many gifts, cards and well wishes along our journey to Izabella. It was a very special moment for her to meet her. And one I got teared up about as I left. She said, "Lisa. She's absolutely beautiful. And I never doubted it would happen for you. I'm so happy for you. You're a good mom." Yup...choking up a bit writing this. I am so appreciative of those around me that love and support me on my journey in life. No matter how un-orthodox it is. They always make me feel like my way is ok! All the people that took the time to visit us made me feel that way--it is a blessing--truly.

Dan never takes candid pics of Izabella and I unless prompted to do so. Typical I'm sure. And usually he takes one picture or two and that's it. So after he took the first few pics--I stopped paying attention--and he kept clicking. I love these images. My breath is taken away a little each time I see images of her and I together. And each time--I can see we are becoming more like "one". It's such a sweet sight to me. Beyond words can explain.

Here she is planting one of her million kisses on me. I've never seen a child that likes to hug and kiss like her. It's like she's making up for lost kisses and hugs. Recently, she'll say to me, "Mommy. I want to "love-on" you." It's so stinkin' sweet. She says the same thing to Daddy. I just love it!

One day--when Shelly and Daddy were outside dropping trees--Izabella and I ventured out for a nature walk up away from where they were cutting. It was a magical little walk. She was rather timid at first--so we took it very slow--finding all kinds of things--little pine ones, leaves, beautiful white birch bark that was like paper, rocks and even a beautiful little brook with a waterfall. It was so, so sweet.

Here she's examining a find! It's a beautiful white stone she found in the brook water bed.

Here she heard a bird up in a tree.

And here she is fishing with a fallen tree branch she found along the way.

I love this photo of her looking up.

And here she's shaking her "leave wand" at me. Love her candid joyful smile. I never tire of seeing it.

Another treasure--a stick and some leaves.

My sister's loving on the phone--lots--husband is working in Michigan, her daughter now lives in Des Moines (where we live) and her son lives an hour away. So she spends A LOT of time talking or texting them on her phone! I'd say literally about 60% of her days are on the phone. :) Obviously, her loved ones miss her and need her a lot. :)

AND, one of Izabella's favorite things about Aunt Shelly's house is her new puppy Cody. He's about 6 months old--and looks much like a lion. I told her she should have called him "Roar". :) He's a really good puppy and Izabella and he were pals. She let him snuggle in her new soft blanket. Below--Is that not the sweetest picture you've ever seen? It's love. (By the way--that's one of Grammy's sweaters she has on).

Izabella's Family Birthday Celebration. We decided to take the opportunity to celebrate Izabella's birthday early--with family this year. And it was so much fun. She had balloons, cake, presents and lots and lots of family and friends wishes. At the end of the day I asked her what her favorite part of the day was, she said, "My Tinker Bell Balloon Mommy." And just before she headed to bed that night she hit the balloon and it went into it's singing verse, "Tinker Bell wants to wish you a very happy birthday and hopes all your wishes and dreams come true." To which she replied, "Oh I did! I did!" So sweet.

Opening gifts....

A "Horton Hears a Who" DVD. It's one of my sisters childhood favorites.

Bunny ears and the perfect diva scarf!

And a very special sweater from Grammy. My mom made this sweater for her. She has so many of them--and loves them all--has outgrown some--sadly--but always insist on wearing them over store bought ones.

I love seeing pictures of my mom and my daughter--sooo deeply special to this daughter's heart.

And 'operation"! Another of my sister's favorites--so fun. Izabella loves playing doctor and loves this game! AND BTW--she was better at it than us.

She removed the intestines and was so excited!

She also got some super fun beads to make necklaces and things with. This one was so heavy--that's what she's telling me in this picture.

And a Tinker Bell cake--just what the birthday girl requested. Oh and see that birthday girl badge she's wearing--she requested one of those too--Lily had one at her birthday party. Daddy got it for her and brought it from Des Moines--along with all the Tinker Bell napkins, plates and decorations.

Blowing out the candles.

And the traditional Chinese frosting face time.

Can you tell she's sooo happy.

My older brother Dan and his fiance' Robin also spoiled her with a watercolor book--she's done all the pages already! She loved it--and a really cool Melissa and Doug--dress up doll that uses scrap material as clothing that you pressed on a doll.

Here is my goofy brother, his fiance' Robin and Izabella.

My big brother Danny is so silly. He's a comedian, always been goofy and silly, even when we were kids, so it's no surprise that Izabella and Uncle Danny really had a wonderful, silly, goofy time!!! It was such a delight to watch. I wish we lived closer--so she could be silly with her Uncle Dan more often.

She would just look at him and start laughing. She calls him, "Silly Uncle Dan".

Love this shot of her with the Tiara upside down. She's got such a great sense of humor.

And what little girl doesn't like a horse ride--this is by far Izabella's favorite thing to play. And I am so appreciative that each of my siblings and their children--have all played like this with her at one point or another. Even if they can't walk when they get up after the fun is done. Blessed I tell you.

Pure delight!

Ryan--oh Cousin Ryan! All the way home, she'd say, over and over again, "Where we going Mommy?" and I'd say, "Going to see Aunt Shelly and Grammy" and Izabella would reply--every time the same way,"And cousin Ryan, we can't forget him Mommy. He'd be very sad if we forgot him." Can you tell she absolutely loves him--and him her. Ryan is my sister's son.

Had to share all three pics of these two--they were all so stinkin' sweet.

I found this PRINCESS pajamas in Des Moines a few weeks ago and couldn't wait to give them to her. She loved it! And wore them for 4 nights in a row to bed. Every morning we'd take them off and she'd say, 'Can I wear this tomorrow mommy?"

My father passed 12 years ago today. I miss him terribly. This is his little brother Bruce, my Uncle Bruce. He too is very sick--but made the trip out to see us and meet Izabella. It was great to see them.

And my little brother and his wife Dodie also spent the one evening a week he has off with us. A wonderful visit.

Then it was time to say good-bye. To say the least--it was very hard! Let's just say there were a lot of tears and gasping crys while hugging and never wanting to let go. Mom is not doing great at all. I am so glad we were able to spend some time with her. She's such a trooper! I don't know what I'd do without her. She's truly the best mom a girl could ever ask for--always has been--priceless!

Yup..this is the "gasping crys" and hugging I was talking about. I didn't want to let go!

And I cried all the way home--off and on--and if you don't remember from the top of this post--that was two days of driving--crying.

This is a horrible pic of my mom--but the only one I have of the three of us. I so wanted this pic to be a good one. I love, love, love this sight--regardless if it's the perfect picture or not.

Daddy and Izabella saying good by to Aunt Shelly. She was so very good to us all week. We are so blessed to have her in our lives.

Izabella and her special Aunt Shelly! Love this pic.

And my sister and her two babies. Hunter and Cody!

We arrived home Saturday night before Easter--but the Easter bunny found us on Sunday morning--and the hunt was so fun.

I have the most adorable video of her this morning--I seriously will do a movie--promis.

We are pretty religous about not giving her a lot of candy--even brush to a made up tune that goes, 'Go away bad candy, don't take my teeth. I like my teeth."

So we gave her books and a princess wand she really wanted--in fact--we ready a fairy book on Saturday's trip home--and in the story--the fairy's gave their special visitor a bracelet with one-wish. So Izabella made one wish and it was for a new PRINCESS WAND. As only God would have it--I happened upon one shopping Saturday night when shopping for some items for a job I had to install on Monday. It was meant to be.

I love this book. And she does too! It's perfect for her.

Then we were invited to celebrate Easter with a brunch and egg hunt with our neighbors Angela and Dan and their twins Nate and Natalie.

The twins are so good to her. They take care of her like a little sister. We just adore this family and are blessed with their friendship.

Nate took time away from the candy to teach Izabella how to play the piano. Precious sight.

Then we had to get some pics of her in her Easter outfit before her nap.

And were joined by our neighbor friend Cheyanne.

Then it was MAY DAY! Goodness--so much going on. She had so much fun making May baskets for Nate and Natalie.

And a new bike! This has been a long haul to get this little princess on a bike. But, she's doing great with it. The fear of falling hasn't left--but she's gaining more confidence everyday.

Love the tongue. It helps with concentration.

That's a quick update of our month. I have more. But this will do it for now. Whew! So many wonderful memories made.

2011-05-08T17:10:00.002-05:00

What an amazing weekend. Full of friends and family and lots of family time with my Izabella and Dan. I am one very blessed Mommy.

But, the sweetest gift I got--was a drawing from Izabella. Dan wrote the words at the top--but she wrote that one sting of letters all on her own. It's a drawing of me (mom), I'm the one with the BIG BLUE SMILE and LONG Hair. Note how close she is to me--snuggled in. She said the circle around all the "Dogs and US and a few hearts is our house (Dogs are drawn by Dan of course--not the artist in our family for sure--but sweet none the less--he wanted to be sure I got some love from the 4-legged kids). The little thing between and behind the dogs is the door knob. She has drawn our house this way a few times recently--with the whale like shape. So I asked her what that "tail part of the house is" She said--that's the part that keeps our house from falling down in the wind. :) Can you tell we live in Iowa--tornado country.

The big thing tot he left and all the other marks are all "HEARTS". So many hearts--and Love I adore it. Compeletly!

But here's the proud mommy moment. The string of letters she wrote on her own--well, you see she can't read or spell yet. But apparently we've read enough I love you" books that she could come close to writing it correctly ...can you see it--"You, lobe you" ...she's an amazing gift everyday in this mommy's life..thank you God!

I have so much to write and catch up--including a post on what Izabella has taught me about "Mommy's" and being a Mommy. She has opened my eyes to things I saw but didn't process before I had her in my life--forever--and ever!

Good Friends We LOVE to see!

2011-05-07T12:38:00.003-05:00

We are so excited to see this amazing family every summer. Todd is Dan's best friend from high school and it's such a treasure they are still in touch and good friends. Todd and Tami adopted Kennedy 10 years ago--and they have been a huge support and role models for us in our own journey to grow our family through adoption.

This mothers day weekend--we had the pleasure of spending it with them. We had dinner and then a couple hours of swimming at their hotel--the night they arrived--went to the opening day of the Farmer's Market together Saturday morning--a gorgeous day! And finished it off with a PBR Bull Riding Competition Rodeo Saturday NIght.

We treasure their friendship and Izabella just adores Kennedy. She calls her her sister! I think Kennedy feels the same way. They are so good together.

Blessing come in many ways--this family blesses us deeply--forever and always.

Mommy.

2011-04-08T16:40:00.002-05:00

Izabella is starting to figure out babies come from a Mommy's tummy. She first started noticing this when we were at church during Christmas--she calls her "Mommy Mary". Then she's says you "Mommy Lisa". Pretty precious.

But the other day--she came upstairs holding her baby oh so tenderly and with the sweetest, soft little voice she began this conversation with me.

I: Mommy. I had a baby. My baby come from my tummy. Isn't she beautiful!

M: Oh yes! She's very pretty Izabella.

I: Mommy you have baby in your tummy?

M: No. I didn't grow any babies in my tummy."

I: Izabella in your tummy.

M: No. You grew in your China Mommy's tummy.

I: Oh. I grew in your heart. China Mommy tummy.

I have never felt a "void" for not having bio children. Never even a pinge of disappointment. It's not that I didn't want to have children. I wanted a family. I just never thought that meant giving birth to a child. I always wanted to adopt and that was as exciting to me as anything, if not more. I will say, the roller coaster ride we were on when we tried to get pregnant early in our marriage was not fun. But that wasn't disappointment about not being pregnant each month--as much as it was the thought of not being a mom at all. As Dan was so opposed to adoption at that time.

BUT, for some reason, this question, coming from this precious little girl--looking up at me with those dreamy brown eyes, holding her little beautiful baby doll I got her for Christmas touched me in a very deep way. It was as if I was hit with a JOLT of reality, as I the words poured out in answer, "No. I didn't grow any babies in my tummy." Brings a tear to my eye now just writing this. Oh goodness!! I thought to myself, "Wow. I never grew a baby in my tummy. AND I never will." Good thing Izabella was sitting next to me, or I might have melted into a complete emotional wreck right then and there. Good thing the question came from the lips of the most precious thing I've ever met--even if I didn't grow her in my tummy. God is good to have delivered this jolt of reality from such a beautiful source of love--His gift to us--her.

Deep breath, exhale, and on with our evening. In the coming days, she started asking at least once a day, usually at bedtime. "Mommy, did you ever hold me like this?" As she cradles her arms together as if to cradle a tiny baby. This conversation is equally as difficult. Although I think for me more than her.

Then a few days ago. I was cradling her in my arms, like "my baby." And I realized I do this a lot. And often when I do it--she will talk and act like a baby. And I have to admit--I love her complete submission to me in those moments. As I look in her eyes and tell her how very much I love her, and kiss her forehead sweetly. She coo's like a baby--then is up and off doing her toddler thing!

Recently, we were doing this, and instead of running off--she locked eyes with me. She stared at me for what seemed an hour--but was probably more like 15 minutes. All the while, I watched her scan my face with the most blank look. As if she was taking in every detail of my face. I couldn't look away. It was as if I was hypnotized by her face, her look.

She's done this before for brief moments--always memorable. But this one will remain so clear in my heart.

Next time she asks me if I cradled her like a baby. I will tell her, "Yes." And I will do so until you're a very old woman if I can.

Where she slept....who she is...

2011-03-29T09:08:00.003-05:00

3.29.2011: Another child from Izabella's orphanage was matched with their forever family! Always a blessing indeed. Recently a mom on the Xi'an CWI yahoo posted a batch of photos of their visit to the orphanage. So I headed out to see if could get a glimpse of izabella's sweet friend Ta Meng. Unfortunately, he was not in any of the pictures. But, there was a blessing for me there today.

We were not allowed to visit the orphanage when we met Izabella in Xi'an City. Even though we asked, and asked again. I have mixed feelings about this. I longed to see with my own eyes the place were our daughter was cared for--where they gave her lifesaving surgery--where she slept while I was praying for her, wishing and waiting for her. I wanted the reality of her life--not one that my head conjured up.

As I was scanning the photos in this recent visit batch--I came on a picture of a room in the orphanage with a slew of toddler beds. Izabella was sitting next to me as I clicked through, but not paying any attention--she was reading her books. When I got to this photo--I wondered if Izabella's bed was in this room? So, I asked the only person that could tell me, "Izabella did you sleep in this room?" She said, "Yes!" I said, "Which bed was yours?" She said, "This one Mommy, the one by the window." At that moment--another answer to prayer. God answers all our prayers--in HIS time. And although this might seem like a small thing to some. To this Mommy's heart--it is one more piece of her life I know. All these pieces are forming a picture, a history of our little girls life--before coming home.

Izabella's bed was the last bed on the right just before window.

Izabella--always hated her crib--of course for safety purposes we needed to keep her in a crib, until we were sure she was safe at night. This explains why. I have a picture of her sleeping in a crib at the orphanage at age 14 months. I discovered this picture of her after we got her home--and knew immediately it was her--from the way she was sleeping--and then was confirm by other details. I remember it stopped me in my tracks the day I ran across it on the group photo albums. Snapshots of our child's life--before we met them. Like an ultrasound photo of sorts--but in full color and with so many more unknowns.

Discovering these pieces of your child's past is a bittersweet experience--for obvious reasons. Ironically, these pieces are not "unknown" to Izabella. She remembers, she knows, it was her life, she lived it. I think to dismiss this fact, I feel we'd be doing her a disservice. Sure, some were too young to remember--as far as we know. Some just don't have a memory that allows those memories to stay with them. Some just block it out for survival purposes. But so many things she says and does--tell me she does remember. This knowledge is a responsibility that I have struggled with how to handle. Is it hurtful for her to remember? Is it traumatic to show her pictures of the orphanage? In the end--every time--I opt to not shield her or protect her from the things of her past that are unknown to me--but not to her. My fears are not hers. And every time she shows me there is nothing to fear. She shows me the good in it all. Yup--at this age--she can do this. I guess I could dismiss it all and tell myself--good or bad she doesn't really remember--she's just making things up. But this just doesn't feel right to me.

Afterall--we know she greives the loss of "the things and people of that part of her life" that is gone forever. But, the question for me is, why would you grieve the loss of something horrific? Some say it's because it's all they knew--they didn't know better. But for me, none of these answers are answers--more like excuses or easy, comfortable ways to make it all ok, to forget and move on with her as if it didn't happen. However, I know every child's circumstances are different--and every child remembers and reacts differently to those experiences. Which leads me to believe--this is not the approach that is best for her--or us.

As I manuever this territory ever so carefully, I am assured she is ok with so much of it. I like most mom's, want her to be proud of her life--every moment of it. The good, the bad, the joys and the sorrows. I want her to not forget all the loving people including her birthparents and all the doctors, nurses and orphanage caretakers that loved on her for those 28 months. That gave her their best! And how they made an impact on this beautiful, joyful spirited child. I want her to go through life holding onto the memories of those early years as a part of her life that formed the survivor, the strong and compassionate side of her. The part of her life that gave her gifts that we will only realize much later in life--when faced with challenges that we can't predict today.

You know, we want them to be proud of their heritage, identify with the Chinese culture, we encourage them to hold onto the language, the traditions of their birth country. But we don't openly encourage them to remember the details--the good things--the little miracles that happened to bring them to where they are today. Instead we want them to grieve it, leave it and move on. Seems a contradiction to me.

I might be horribly wrong about all this--I hope not. I hope she can be proud of her heritage, the colorful culture of her birth country. But I also hope she can remember all the love and the courage of her birth parents--living in that culture--and making the sacrifices they had to in order to give her life.

But, her life is not a mystery to God. He knows every detail of her life before meeting us and coming home. And I know He was with her every step of the way and is with her now as well. And I am comforted by this--HE is in control and has allowed her to her remember--while she can--and do so with hope, with faith, with love and with all her child like abandon. I thank God for being there when we couldn't and even when we are today. And I thank God for giving her the ability to remember and recall those years with out a us--with the love and forgiveness that can only come from a God that was right there with her through it all. Never leaving her. As Izabella has told me so many times, "God hold my hand.", "God help me find pink castle Mommy." "God with me in hospital Mommy." "God my friend."

Right now, she doesn't want to go back--she loves her home, her family and life here with us--and tells us so multiple times a day--and looks forward to every day--to her future. Some day that might not be true--and as much as I wish I had a video of those 28 months of her life to hand her to help her process all this as she figures our her own identity--I realize--that's impossible. All I can do is be here for her--as she makes her way through the memories--or the lack of and pray she comes out of it--the beautiful spirit she is today.

In the end--the reality is--I will likely discover little pieces of her life at Xi'an City CWI here and there. Which I know will be such a huge treasure to her. So I will continue to pursue any lead to pieces of her life in China. But the one piece, the most valuable treasure of her life in China -- I will likely never find, her birth mom and dad's faces, names and life history/family. But, no matter, she remembers, and I document as much as I can the memories she shares. The clues to her past that if she doesn't remember--she can recall through her Mommy's journal.

She has given me glimpses of who they were. But for now--I see them in her face, in her personality, in the things she loves and all the things that are unfolding in her. That's the closest thing she has to them--I will remind her of this when she wonders. I hope that's enough for her--when and if she wants to know more.

I pray that she'll always remember, if not their faces, their love, their sacrifice, their courage and know that that beautiful joyful spirit of hers was passed on from them to her. And they loved and nurtured her beautiful little spirit for a precious 10 months (or more--since we don't know the exact amount of time they had with her) and again, although I don't know any of this for sure--the evidence is clear--in who she is today. There is no denying that. She's precious beyond words.

Thank you God for taking such amazing care of our little girl. She's a treasure!

things she does and says...

2011-03-15T14:00:00.002-05:00

3.16.2011: Everyday Izabella says things that make us chuckle, sometimes they make us wonder, sometimes they just stir your heart. They are too many to keep track of. Each time I think I should write that down--and I can't get to my computer to do so. But last night.....

Izabella was saying her prayers. She still prays everynight for her Grammy and her best friend at the orphanage (TaMeng) to feel better and for Ta Meng to have a Mommy and Daddy very soon. Usually that's the end of her prayers. But last night she rambled on further--and said something that wasn't clear, so I asked her. She said, 'God my best freind, He's my best friend Mommy."

She's all about getting big, and wants to grow up fast so she can do laundry for her baby and be a mommy. Reminiscent of my own childhood. I recall that's all I ever wanted to be "A Mommy." and I couldn't wait! Pretty neat.

She is so much about Mommy EVERYTHING that she's started to ask the questions, "I grow in Mommy's tummy?" You hold me like this when I was a tiny baby?" (holding her arms in a cradling position. The answer is always the same, but never gets easier. "No. You grew in my heart at the same time you were growing in your China Mommy's tummy." Then she says, "China far away. Around the circle (which is what she calls the globe)"

The other day, I was making the bed and cleaning when I heard her say, "God, Please. Please make me tall so I can be a Mommy." I looked over and she was looking up while making this sweet plea.

She loves us to tell her "Stories with no books." I wasn't too good at these stories--but with all the practice she's giving me--they're getting better. She will always tell you what the story should be about, A little frog. Or a little rabbit. Especially since the day I told her about the "Itsie, Bitsie, teenie, weeny, itsie, bitsie frog."

It's pretty sweet how when you ask her to do something she's say, "Of course! No problem!" So grown up.

As obsessed as she is with getting tall--she's equally obsessed with eating things that make her, "Big and Strong and Healthy!" She always picks fruit, or vegetables for a snack. She is allowed to get her own snack from the refridgerator. Yesterday, she came up stairs with an apple and declared, "Mommy. We're all out of apples! We must get some more at the store." She knew our plan for the day included a trip to the store, and upon entering the store she declared, very loudly, "Apples! Apples! Where are you Apples!"

She's amazing with puzzles. On Sunday we were reading the Sunday paper at the breakfast table when Izabella climbed into the chair at the end of the table with her "24-piece Isabella Castle Puzzle" and within 10 minutes had it assembled all by herself--no assistance at all. Then she grabbed a Tinker Bell puzzle book (one that's for age 6) with a sliding (rubics cube) like puzzle on the front and had that solved too. OK--I worked on it for 10 minutes and couldn't get 'er done.

Yesterday, she came up to me and said, "Mommy it's time for lunch." I said, "Ok." She had her little spiral bound writing tablet and pencil in hand. Handed me an old date book i gave her to play with and said, "Here is the menu." I said, "What do you have?" She said, 'Look at the menu." We have Apples, Oranges, Banana's, Hot Dogs, Cheese. What do you want?" I gave her a list of things and after each one she'd diligently write them down in her notebook. Then look up at me and say, "What else?" When I said that's all, she marched over to her little kitchen set and prepared my lunch from her shopping cart full of items. Pretty sweet my little waitress cook.

When we sit down to dinner, and she likes what we're having (which is almost everything we eat.) she will say, "Oh Mommy. You good cook! Daddy good cook grill. I good cook upstairs in Mommy's office."

Last night we were sitting in a big chair by the window when she said, "Mommy! Mommy! A star! I'm going to wish on the star." Then she made her wish, "I wish, I wish a sister and a brother." Me too Izabella. :)

As I was preparing lunch one day a few weeks ago--she grabbed a piece of paper and a pencil and said, "Mommy I write a note." I asked, "Who do you want to write a note to?" She said "Daddy." I said, "Ok. You tell me what you want to say and I'll tell you what letters to write to make that note." She said, "I want to say, I love you Daddy. And miss you." So as I worked in the kitchen I worked with her on this note. Here "I lobe you Daddy. Mis." The end I think is where she was trying to write her name--by herself.

I'm sure there are more memorable events--I promise to try to write them down more.

I love my Daddy!

lunch with my daddy!

2011-03-09T12:36:00.001-06:00

Sunday {Front Room} Moments...

2011-03-07T10:46:00.005-06:00

Our front room is definately the place we all just relax and enjoy each other. This weekend was no exception. This weekend was full of "wait a minute" moments for me as well. I'm sure everyone has those moments, when the world stops for a moment you see what has become an everyday occurrence with new eyes.

Like:

• When we were headed into the mall to go to the playground. Izabella is between us--as we each hold her precious hands and I see the reflection of the three of us in the store entrance windows. I think, "Hey, that's us! My family! SWEET!"

Like:

When I see Izabella riding her Harley Rocker--that sat still and lifeless for years as we waited for her to come home. There are a lot of reasons I love this photo--but the best part is, that rocker is "movin' and shakin'" with the life of a little princess on it now! No more looking at it, "wishing she was home". She's here!

THIS IS ABSOLUTELY MY FAVORITE! She was playing on her Harley Rocker--I was just "clicking away" and this is what she did. So spontaneous--I love it. She's hilarious! Love that messy hair do too. She looks like she just got back from a ride with her hair a-blowin' in-the-wind.

Like:

When I am working to fix something on Dan's computer and I hear giggles behind me--and I turn around to see Dan, cuddled up in a big chair reading to our little princess. And lovin' every second of it! Moments before he was reading his "American Biker" magazine.

She loves to be read to--she has books in every room in our house, comes down the stairs every morning with blanket, pillow and books in hand. Here Daddy is reading her a book that was in our front room.

Like: When she reaches her arms up to me to pick her up and says, "Mommy!" I pick her up and she wraps her arms around my neck and says, "Mommy. I love you wit all my heart. The whole world!"

Like: When I'm taking pictures of her--no words--and she stops and looks back at me to see that I'm still there. :) Then rolls over and throws me a sweet little smile. :)

"My show": Izabella is a performer--she loves to do shows for us. Our front room sits one step down from our foyer--which is now Izabella's stage. Here she had just told Daddy to use her "play Cinderella princess camera" (Grammy Cota bought it for her) and take pictures of her show. She's blowing him a kiss.

This is the model pose.

I love how this captures her in a quiet moment...

Like: When she ask me to read the new book a dear orphanage sister gave her on Friday called "You're my wish come true." and I get all choked up and struggling HARD to hold back the tears while reading it. She reaches out her precious little hand and brushes my cheeks so gently, in an effort to stop my tears. She doesn't understand yet-they are tears of utter JOY.

Like: When I put her down to bed and she says, "Mommy. I grow in your heart? Not your tummy right?" Oh yes...so right.

Yup--all things that happen so often...yet sometimes when they do--when the world stops around you--you realize--you're truly and utterly blessed to be living a your dream--in awe that our God would give you so much. Your heart is overflowing at a rate that you never dreamed possible.

A sweet little God's wink moment: I splurged and bought this creme-y-green princess skirt for her on Saturday. I saw it a year ago on the clearance rack at Gymboree, and wanted to buy it for her 3rd birthday outfit--but decided it was too much--even on clearance. I was shocked to see it on the clearance rack AGAIN a year later! Surely a sign--it should be ours-Izabella's. And it was 1/2 the price it was last year. So I bought it and it's perfect for her. Perhaps the perfect "tu-tu" for her 4th birthday party. Although she wore it to school today--pleased as punch. Perfect for the "zoo" visit today at her school don't you think? :)

We're going on a Disney Cruise!

2011-02-19T07:47:00.002-06:00

2.18.2011: Yup! That's right! It's hard to believe. But we decided after a rough year--we all needed something fun and stress free to look forward to and plan for.

Our reservations are made and we couldn't be more excited about it.

Thankfully our agency is hosting the trip--so the prices are hard to beat. And we're excited and hopeful we'll be able to reunite with some of the precious families we've met along our journey to China--and since home--and those that traveled to China with us. So, fun!

Izabella is so excited. She'll be 4.5 at the time of the trip--so it's just perfect. But not surpassed by our excitement. Dan and I didn't really have a honeymoon and always use our vacation time for trips home to NE and VT to see family. So, this is a new adventure for us too. We've never cruised before--except in our own boat--which we sold before Izabella came home. So....we're off on February 9th to Sail away with Disney Magic. It is so much fun!

The brand new ship we'll be on just had it's maiden voyage on January 12th, last month. And it's spectacular. They improved all the things they wanted to improve from the Wonder and Magic ships. It's fabulous. We've been surfing the Disney Cruise site to get a look inside our short trip. They have a first ever--water roller coaster that takes you out over the ocean at one point. And Character greetings and signings that are relaxed and fun. And shows, and great food, and play areas designed for each age group. And of course lots of sun and fun at the ports--which will be a welcome sight--in the dead of winter in Iowa. And we even have a veranda off our room to see the ocean when we first wake up. Perhaps we'll spot some dolphins or other sea creatures. The possiblities are endless--and I've heard 3-days isn't long enough--and I wish it was longer--but this timeframe is the most affordable--and we're thankful for that--or it wouldn't be possible.

So--ei, ei Captain Mickey! We're on our way!

Mommy...look I'm an Artist!

2011-02-18T20:37:00.000-06:00

After school last week. I turned around and Izabella had decided her "coordinating cover pants" would make a great hat--and her tights a good scarf. And the pants really did look like an artist burea. Too funny. We stepped out on the deck to grab a bit of the unusual 72 degree February Day. It was glorious. Ahhhh...a little taste of Spring.

Making V-day Cookies for Daddy!

2011-02-18T19:40:00.000-06:00

2.14.2011: So fun to cook with Izabella. Especially when you just throw out all your inhibitions and let her experience it. In her way. :) She was so proud of them--and Daddy Loved them. Has already requested more!

Putting a ball of dough together with the left over scraps from our first cookie cutting.

Why not. She can run a mean rolling pin.

She rolled it out all by herself. Seriously.

You go girl.

She's pointing to this one and saying "PRETTY. PRETTY."

Now that's some serious decorating~

Yummy!

Bringing them to Daddy.

"Mommy. I'm a Cowboy Girl."

2011-02-14T15:00:00.000-06:00

2.14.11: Too funny not to post. She yelled to me as I was cleaning up from lunch to take her picture of her as a Cowboy Girl.

The cutest thing was the way she had that hand on the hip. Like a cowboy would do. Too funny.

Izabella and her Valentine's Loot!

2011-02-14T12:28:00.001-06:00

I don't remember getting all these goodies when I was little! Geez wheeze!

Happy Valentine's Day with Love, Izabella, Mommy & Daddy!

Chinese New Year at Izabella's Pre-School

2011-02-13T16:57:00.000-06:00

Izabella's class celebrated Chinese New Year this year. The teacher was so great. She added these activities to the curriculum that day, which was a lot. Especially on a week when we were catching up from 2 snow days!

They made "Chinese paper girls and boys", a beautiful paper lantern, stamped with "bunny" stamps, had a lantern parade, and sang a dragon song/dance. Izabella wore her red Chinese New Year outfit (as she calls it) and gave each of her classmates a little "bunny" for the year of the rabbit. Each one in a little chinese take out box--each adorned with a paper lantern with each one's name in it--in english and mandarin. I was able to get these at the CNY celebration the weekend before--they were perfect to teach the children that different languages have different letters and languages.

We also presented Mrs. Piatt a gift of thanks. A tiger-head hat we purchased from Jailyn Designs last fall--just for this celebration. She loved it--and will share it with children at Shepherd's Flock ELC for years to come.

Paper Lanterns lined up waiting for the parade.

Mrs. Piatt, (from left to right) Beau, Kayla, Joey, Izabella, Jack, Lily and Jimmy.

Holding their lanterns and paper dolls.

Izabella's Lantern.

The lantern Parade!

Showing me her "stuff".

Just a cute pic of our girl.

Izabella's lantern and the little Rabbit gift she gave her friends.

Playing with her doll.

Happy Valentine's Day Early!

2011-02-13T16:40:00.000-06:00

2.8.2011: Daddy surprised his girls with flowers and sweet cards EARLY. So fun. He really hates the "RUSH" of Valentines Day and often will do this. We were thrilled. And we discovered, Izabella can keep a secret. Daddy came home and I was still working in my studio. Izabella ran down to meet Daddy as always and came running back up the stairs to say, "Mommy you need to come down right now--Daddy has a surprise." So down I went--to find two bouquet's of flowers--red for Izabella and yellow for me. Dan always buys me yellow roses--ever since we met. It's a sweet tradition.

The cards were beautiful. Izabella's was a princess card that played music. She adored it. These were Izabella's first flowers--all her own. And she was soooo excited. We arranged them in a little princess vase for her. And she sat at the table and admired them.

And read her card....

And couldn't stop smiling!

And smelling them!

Then, while I was making dinner--she decided she needed to sit them down on the floor where she could see them in the sunlight.

And here, she's showing her "princesses" on the card--her flowers.

Daddy love you so much Izabella!

It's Zophias Birthday Party Day!

2011-02-12T10:59:00.004-06:00

We had a very busy day yesterday!

It started out with a "Heart Screening for Mommy and Daddy!" It was a very early appointment--8:30am! A special friend gave us these screenings as a gift--the perfect gift of love. It was little scarey, as I had never had a screening like this (of my heart health) and at 51 it was about time! They discovered a blockage in my left carotid artery--it's not at the critical stage--but definately a wake up call. I have always been so healthy--good diet and exercise. I'm not a fanatic on either one--just believed in a healthy balanced approach. Well, since moving to Iowa--I fell off exercis wagon, I still eat pretty healthy--always have--but yeah--I have definately dropped the exercise part. I know not good. I have to say it's not all Iowa's falutl, life's stresses and age didn't help any either. So....time to get back on the exercise wagon. On the other hand--Dan came out with great results. So...that was a big plus! BTW--of the 4 test--there was only 1/2 of one that was bad--so--I will keep the positives of all that upfront. :) And take care of this thing--now. I am especially thankful for this gift--thanks a million Liz--as staying healthy is more important now than ever. I want to be around to enjoy our Izabella as long as I possibly can--for if what we've seen of all that entails in the last year is any indicator--surely there are years to come that will blow my socks off--and I don't want to miss a second of it--not one teeny-tiny milla-second!

Next we headed to Cracker Barrel for breakfast. That's where I captured this shot of Izabella--lovin' this little perfectly sized rocker! Can you see how much she loves it!

Then we were off to the "Home and Garden Show". (no pics I'm sorry to say) The highlight of that was when while riding on top of my shoulders, our little princess fell sound asleep, slumped down with her little head on my shoulder--drooling and snoreing away. As we made our way to Daddy, so he could take down from my shoulders and carry her, the looks on people's faces ranged from giggles to horror. Some even advised me she was going to FALL! Ahhhhh...not so much. I would never let that happen. Another highlight was running into one of our Adoptive Family friends Charisse, her husband and daughter Meilee. I am always touched by how--we always see one of our sweet friends out and about doing what families do. And it's always so wonderful to see each of them!

Then, finally, it was time to head out to Zophia's birthday party. Like always I took the wrong exit and we arrive a bit late--UGH--that's what happens when you are always chauffeured everywhere by Daddy! It was so much fun.

The kids played and played, and when it was time to go--Izabella refused to say goodbye and thank-you with any sincerity or enthusiasm (see the photo of Izabella and Zophia--note hands down, chin down--yup not happy at all) as she really didn't want to go. She said with a plea-ing and very sad voice, 'But Mom! I really, really don't want to go!" We did say good-bye and once in the car it wasn't a matter of 5 minutes and the little princess was fast asleep!

Happy 5th Birthday Zophia!

Ahhh...such a fun day. Zophia is a sweetie!

Valentine Hearts....Millions of Them!

2011-02-11T11:41:00.002-06:00

Izabella loves school. And everyday she is so excited to see me when class is dismissed. Today, she ran to me and said, "Mommy! Butterfly kisses!" and proceeded to flutter a few on my cheek, as I scrambled to move my eye glasses out of the way of her precious eyelashes. Then she said, "Mommy, come here. I want to show you something!" This is what she shared with me. Sooooo much fun. I love it. This table is the "sensory table". They fill it with different things each month--depending on the curriculum theme for that month. She has only pulled me in to see it twice. Clearly she LOVES all the hearts! And I have to say, I was too. It reminded me of my own chldhood, sharing these crazy messages of "love" with my friends. Carefully picking them out--to give the perfect message to each friend. So much fun. I love life with this little girl. She rocks my world, backwards and forwards--wildly, recklessly and with such wonder and surprise.

How adorable is this little tutu hanging out from her coat...

2011-02-09T12:34:00.002-06:00

Just a cute little photo. We met Daddy for lunch today. And as they were walking across the parking lot--I wanted to remember how adorable they looked--hand in hand. I wasn't fast enough on the draw with my phone to get them hand-in-hand--but it's cute anyway. :)

I should have a sister...

2011-02-03T10:00:00.000-06:00

I told Izabella we needed to get her toys picked up, so we can go out today and see what we can find to do. We've been house bound for 3 days now. But we've been sick too--so that was a good thing. Feeling much better today.

Anywho--this is the conversation that ensued:

I: "Ok Mommy. I want to go make a sister snowman."

M: "We do? Why do we need to make a sister snowman?"

I: "Because I don't have a sister. I should have a sister."

M: "Oh. Ok."

Izabella thinks for a minute. As she pushes her princess chest back to it's place with the other toys and says,

I: "I'll have a sister someday. Someday I'll have a sister. Maybe. I'll have to go up to bed and dream about having a sister."

How adorable is that? :)

Last night we were watching the "Live to Dance" show. The little 11 year old danced--as Izabella mimicked her dance with her own interpretation. After the dance was done. The host interviewed the 11 year old. Izabella ran to get her microphone from her toy box--brought it over to Dad to interview her--he directed her to me--as the better interviewer. I complied and this is how it went:

M: "Izabella what would you with your money, if you won a quarter of a million dollars?"

I: "Pay my bills."

Izabella my 3.5 year old fiscally responsible girl. :)

Yes, it is real...it is very real.

2011-02-02T23:25:00.003-06:00

Someone said to me a few months ago ( at the time home just about a year), "It's clear you're still in awe of this little girl." I wasn't sure what to make of that comment. I wondered if perhaps I was "googling" and "gushing" about my profound love and the fact that I am still in complete disbelief she is my daughter a little too much. I wondered if perhaps because I am still in this state of amazement and so deeply in love with her, that others think it's not real. That comment sticks with me--each time I write another post. But each time--I just do what I've always done and write what my heart feels. And I assure you, it is very real. I have never, in my entire life, ever, ever, ever loved anything or anyone as much as I love and cherish this precious gift I have been given--this amazing little girl. My heart is bursting everyday with the reality of her...all of her. And everyday she shows me yet another part of her that I am profoundly amazed at. And everyday--at least once a day--my heart breaks for her birth mother. I can not imagine making the sacrifice she did--and as each day passes, and I learn more and more about Izabella, I am more sure, that she knew just what a sacrifice she was making. And did it anyway--to give her life. That too is still mind boggling to me. I think about how precious this woman must be like--as I look into her eyes and can get a glimmer of her mother looking back at me. And all I can do is pray that she knows--that she is doing so well. And is loved in a way, I never dreamed was possible.

Will I ever truly stop feeling immeasurably blessed? Will I ever stop being amazed at the deep, deep love I know because of her? Will I ever not be in complete and utter awe in her presence? Will I ever stop missing her when we are not together? Will I ever stop writing about it. Will I ever stop trying to capture that love in words, here, for her.

I pray not.

She is my hero.

She is my inspiration.

She is my everything.

And oh Thank You God...she is my daughter.

Mischievous.

Joyful.

Silly.

Opinionated.

Charming.
And exotically, and mysteriously beautiful inside and out.

Happy.

Thoughtful.

Shy.

Playful.

Funny.

Spiritual.

Glee.

Easily Entertained with little things.

Focused.

Down right, over the top, messy and HAPPY!

Who could ask for more? Not this mommy.

She is growing and changing so fast.

I pray she never changes a thing! I love every ounce of her inside and out!

A winter playdate with Ethan!

2011-02-02T23:01:00.000-06:00

Izabella so loves that Ethan! And we had such a great time. They just played in the livingroom with Izabella's toys while Jenny and I visited. It was such a nice break from the winter blahs. And so wonderful to see them. We haven't seen them since before Halloween. Ethan just had his first Family Day anniversary. He's so beautiful and doing so well. Although they all miss their Daddy who's serving in Afghanistan right now! We pray that he's ok and home safely soon--well July--not soon enough!

As they were leaving--Ethan spotted Izabella's Harley Rocker and they decided to ride it together, and push each other around the room on it. They took turns riding in the front as you can see.

Ethan is the driver here.

Now it's Izabella's turn.

Ethan fixes a flat tire. :) What a gentleman.

Izabella reading and driving. :)

Saying good-bye. These two hugged each other so long and so hard they kept falling down. Then they'd get up and hug again and fall down. It was hilarious. I think they had a great time--don't you?

Izabella said, "Ethan come again Mommy. I want to do it again!"

Snow Fun...

2011-02-02T22:52:00.000-06:00

A couple runs down our backyard mini-sledding hill.

That was fun Mom. Do it again!

Building my first snowman! Whoa! This is a lot of work!

I can do it Daddy! I can do it!

Carefully adding the snow man's buttons....

...his smile....

...his eyes...

...and his magic hat....

...then she added the his pipe..and it fell to the ground. She got a huge kick out of this...as you can see here. :)

...giving him a pipe..once more.

...I love my snowman....

Then Daddy headed inside to warm up. And Izabella and Mommy made the Mommy and Izabella ones that you see in the previous post.

Finally! It's a snowman!

2011-01-28T18:18:00.002-06:00

Actually, better...it's a snow family!

Update: I found this snow family Dan and I made in the summer of 2008. Yup--two grown late 40's adults, ventured out on a winter day and made a "snow family". Looking at it now--3-years later and 14 months a FAMILY OF 3--not in dreams, not made of "hopeful" snow--a REAL LIVE Family of 3 and I get a bit choked up. I remember taking this picture and praying--"Oh God, Please make us a family of 3". And I thought this snow family was so sweet. The eyes on our little chinese snow princess here, were not intentional. But after taking the picture--I remember saying--hey that's cool. Funny thing is. We thought we'd be adding a baby to our family. Hmmm..oh how God knows best.

Looking at this picture now--This snow family doesn't look nearly as happy as our Snow Family with Izabella HOME. Ahhhhhhh....how sweet it is. Funny how art-no matter how hard you try--reflects your inner soul. We just don't see it at the time of "creation".

AND to top it all off--how cool is this? We made this snow family--just one day shy of the same day--3 years ago--January 27, 2008. Here read that post on this day to the day-3 years ago today--go here.

Dance...again.

2011-01-26T11:11:00.002-06:00

Izabella dances her way through life. She dances at the sound of an tune--even if it's just a few seconds. And she loves to dance when she puts on a skirt (or a princess dress as she calls it.) This morning she got to wear a skirt for the first time in a while--it's been too cold. And she began to dance around her room--without music! She performed for me several times--and then insisted she have some music. Turned on her "shopping cart" music and this is what I captured.

She's such a happy girl. We are blessed--everyday in and out.

A few funny things she said this week:

Dan and I were measuring our slider, considering putting up a shade of some kind. We were discussing the options--I guess in a very serious manor when she said, 'Hey you two--talk nicely to each other." Hmmmm....ok Izabella!

She was on the pottty and had to "poop". I was with her in the bathroom, when she said, "Mommy, you don't want to be here for this. It's going to really stink."

Oh my...:)

Izabella's little mind...

2011-01-21T16:36:00.000-06:00

1.21.2011: Oh my January is almost over--time flys now that this little one is in our lives.

I had to share a few Izabella conversations of recent--don't want to forget these:

One day Izabella told me she was sad. I told her it was ok to be sad sometimes, it happens. She isn't sad too often--so this was a big deal. Whenever I'm the least bit sad, she always says, "Mommy, don't be sad. Be happy. Be. Happy Mommy. Be Happy." And then she smiles ear-to-ear and says, "Like me Mommy. I'm happy!"

M: What are you sad about.
I: Nothing.
M: OK. That's ok. I'm sure you were sad when you lived in China, but you're happy now. You'll be happy again soon.
I: Oh, No, No, No, No. I not sad in China.
M: You weren't? That's great.
I: I not sad cause I had God.
M: Oh that's wonderful Izabella. Just wonderful.

Yesterday, Izabella, her baby Izabetta, and I were having lunch together. In our conversation, I commented that Grammy (meaning me) loved having lunch with her daughter and granddaughter. Izabella insisted she was not a "daughter", she was Izabella. So, I proceeded to again explain what a "daughter" was, and at the same time, what a "son" was. Here is the conversation from there:
I: But Mommy we don't have any little boys in our family.
M: No that's right. But some families do. Like the little boys in your class--they are their mommy and daddy's sons.
I: Hey, I have an "idea"! We can get a little boy for our family.
M: Really! We can!?
I: Yes, we can go to China and get a little boy!
M: Hmmmm...ok. We'll need to talk to Daddy about that.

After we had this conversation--I had to ask her about this on video. And got some fun commentary as well. Enjoy. Sorry..it's sideways again.

Last night when Daddy got home. I related this conversation to Dan. He is happy with just the 3 of us. I expected a firm and definative "No." And clearly, we got a "no". But, it might be my imagination, but as I told him the story about our conversation, he got a sweet little glimmer in his eye. Good thing God in in control and not me or Dan or Izabella. :)

Everynight we say our prayers. And everynight we pray have some special prayers. But lately, we pray for my mom (she has had some rough days this winter and I for one am always worried about her.) to feel better and we pray for Ta Meng--her little friend from her orphanage in China. Here's how these prayers go--every night without fail:

We always have to do Grammy first!

"God. Thank you make Grammy better very soon. Thank you she has Aunt Shelly and Uncle Topher and Ryan with her."

Then we pray for Ta Meng:
"God. Thank you make Ta Meng better very soon. And God. Thank you find Mom and Dad Ta Meng."
Then she looks up at me and says with this really excited beautiful face--"I have a Mom and Dad!"

Dan took some time off between Christmas and New Years to spend some time with Izabella. And oh they spent LOTS of time together. It was wonderful. Ever since then, I see changes in how she relates to him. When she talks to him on the phone she says with the sweetest little voice, 'Hi Daddy. What you doing? When you come home?" I need to record it--cause when you hear it, it just melts your heart.

At lunch today, she said, "Bye Daddy. I love you. You be careful. Snow. Hard to drive and make a road. Very slippery."

Many mornings she is up with us when Dan leaves at 6am! And when Dan leaves she says her goodbyes and loves. But lately she adds, "You come back Daddy? You come back soon?"

Everynight after I read her a book, she always has to read it to me right after I'm done reading to her. She's done this since we got home. I have a video of her reading her book last night. She read it to me, then I asked her to go read it to Daddy (cause I wanted him to hear it--it was too cute). Then I decided to video tape it--it is so adorable. You'll note a few things. When we try to help her--she gets very upset. Afterall, SHE's READING to us. And if you don't know the story, it's the story of Belle preparing and celebrating a birthday party for "mama". Some of it is not understandable to most--only we understand what she's saying. But, it's pretty cool anyway. What I love about this--is how much she LOVES to read! It's wonderful!

Enjoy.

Izabella engineered her own plane...

2011-01-17T19:25:00.002-06:00

She made this paper airplane all by herself and it flys! Well, a little ...it flies just a little.

Wow...cool castle Izabella!

2011-01-11T12:34:00.002-06:00

It's a big day around here. Izabella loves her blocks her Aunt Shelly and Uncle Topher gave her and plays with them, just about daily. Usually she plays right under my chair on the chair pad I have. I try to get her to use her table, but she likes it under my feet. Today I suggested the table, and she thought it was a great idea, when I looked over to see what she had built, WOW...it's beautiful, and fascinating at the same time. Her other castles were just a whole pile of blocks a piled together in no logical fashion. This is a first, for building using patterns and fitting shapes together. I love how you can watch them unfold, right before your eyes.

Izabella's description of what this is:

The rectangle pieces with the round pieces inside them are the princess' bed to sleep in. The other tall part, is the castle. The bottom pink rectangle post is the "door". She said, "That's the door for the people to come in. But I lock the door to keep the people out. " OK! :)

[milestone] : "I'll never, ever, leave you baby!"

2011-01-11T12:14:00.000-06:00

1.11.11: Hmmm....that's a lucky day...fun.

I was working in my studio today while Izabella played on the floor next to me, when I heard her say, "I'll never, ever leave you Baby! Never, ever, ever!"

They say if you watch them playing with their baby dolls, you'll see yourself in what she does. In this case, it definately points to back to something we do A LOT. Izabella sometimes wakes up at night or after a nap and crys. When we get to her bed, we ask if she's ok and what's wrong. In an effort to sooth her and figure out what's happening, we ask her if she was scared? She usually says yes. Then we ask, what were you afraid of? She still says nothing, just usually huggin' on us at this point. We ask if she was afraid we left her? She says, "Yeah." And we reply, "Well, you never have to worry about that. We would never, ever, ever leave you Izabella. We love you so much."

With that said, we feel like this is a huge milestone for her. This is the first time we've heard her say this. She's very attentive to her baby, feeds her, loves on her, pats her back and plays with her, but, this is the first time she's said this. I think it's a good sign that she is understanding that, just like she would never leave HER baby, we too would never leave her. So comforting to this Mommy's heart.

Some parents have a dreams for their children, what they'll grow up to be a doctor, teacher, lawyer, dancer...etc. But when I think about what I dream of for Izabella, I pray and hope that we can teach her that she can trust those that love her--always and unconditionally, and give her the confidence and wisdom to make good healthy choices in relationships in life. If we can do that, I think she will be just fine in whatever she wants to do--as we call it--"for work." :) Given her history, this is a huge step in that direction. Praise God!

Of course, I had to capture it on video. Here it is (again--I took the video sideways with my phone--and the file is too big to email to my blog--so I have to send it to youtube...and this is the way it comes in...ugh! You'd think I'd learn to keep the camera in horizontal position...but it's a memory still--side ways or not.).

Names for Mommy...

2011-01-07T20:53:00.001-06:00

1.7.2011: Izabella has all kinds of names for me. I don't know if other mom's experience this--but i do and it's so precious.

A while back, while explaining to Izabella why she had two names, I told her, "oh, we all have lots of names we go by. But the only one that can call me mom is YOU."

Well, in the last few months she has started to call me all kinds of pet names. Here they are--I don't want to forget them.

Mom
Mama
Mommy
Mama Princess--It should be noted I am usually Mama Princess when she is Baby Princess or Princess ChunLei or Princess Izabella
Mama Kitty Cat--And I am usually Mama Kitty Cat when she is Baby Kitty Cat.
Mama Lisa
Lisa--It should also be noted--this one I always tell her is not ok--in our family it was a sign of disrespect to call your mother by her first name. It is a demotion of sorts, Mom, Mommy, Mama, Mother is a special name just for one special person--your mother. To call them the name everyone else calls them is a step down and disrespectful.

Just a sweet little post. And one photo from another day I haven't shared yet--she got this princess dress, wand, shoes, crown, rings, necklaces from her Aunt Michelle and Uncle Ken. Here she is doing dance scales in her high heals mind you,next to her Harley Bike--that's my girl!

When she first tried on these "glass slippers" she said, "hurt mommy". I said, "Yup, that's the way it is--get used to it." But the next pair she tried on--same shoes BTW--"fit better." She's hilarious.

[Milestones] : She wrote her name

2011-01-07T13:36:00.002-06:00

Izabella had a great day today! When I picked her up from pre-school her teacher showed me how Izabella had written her name on the back of her artwork for the first time with no correction or help! She related, "I almost cried when she was just doing one letter after another. Then when we got to the L's, I was working with another child at the same time and told them to do an "A" and she thought I told her to do an "A" and she did it before I could stop her. So if you look close, you'll see we had to squeeze in two little itty-bitty "L's" between the E and the A." Too sweet!

I have to tell you--when I saw this beautiful sight, my heart skipped a beat. I was so proud of her! The teacher told me the others in her class are not there yet. So..again, she's exceeding her peers in some areas. I too got a bit teary. It's pretty precious.

I recall a dear friend (Petrie) of mine telling me she wanted to be there to share the joys of all the little milestones they reach, which is why she homeschools--well part of the reason anyway. I know what she means--this is a beautiful moment indeed. Wish I was there.

Infact, I was worried she'd lose some of the writing skills she'd learned before break, so I found a wonderful app on my android phone. She LOVES my phone, so now she can do "educational games" and she loves it. She loves doing her letters. This app is super cool. It show them an A and has them trace it. Then i told her, if she did it right, when she hit the speaker it would tell her the letter. If you mess up and want to start over, you just shake the phone and it erases like an etch-a-sketch. So cool! And you can change the color you use to make the letters. We do it together at least once a day. The other day, she did the entire alphabet and all the numbers with no errors.

Yup..proud mommy!

New Friends In China Now!

2011-01-07T10:40:00.001-06:00

1.7.2011: After adopting Izabella, our agency asked us if we'd like to be a reference family for them, we were more than happy to do this. And one day a few months ago, we got an email from a family that had some questions--our agency thought we'd be perfect to answer. You see we had a lot in common. Both our families were, older, childless, and Liz had been dreaming of her daughter in China since she was a child, like me. As we got to know each other over the last few months, we came to understand we had more and more in common. This new friendship has been such a blessing.

AND yesterday, our new friends, Liz and Brad left for China to meet their daughter Natalie Rose!

I know how much all the comments and support meant to us in China--even the support of complete strangers that happened on our blog--and gave us the gift of their prayers and good wishes. This journey is full of adventure and excitment--but it can be very stressful too. The comments and communication with loved ones at home is a blessing beyond words.

So, I'd like to encourage you to visit their website--and post comments of support for them as they make their way--half way around the world to their beautiful Natalie Rose. I can not wait to see her in their arms. So take a front row seat on this miracle and follow along with them. Go to: http://natalierosefeng.blogspot.com/

Pretty Pink Nails..and another God's Wink Moment

2011-01-07T10:25:00.002-06:00

Izabella loves anything pretty, girly or princess. So when I went to get my "catapillars tamed" (that's lisa-english for eyebrows waxed) she was thrilled as she thought she'd be getting pink nails. I couldn't deny her--and this is why--look at that face. Is she a "happy girl" or what?

And we were blessed with a God's Wink Moment: The woman that does my eyebrows and nails name is Lisa (same as mine) that we found funny at first. I didn't go to get my nails done often--or my eye brows (hence why we call them catapillars--cause they get so bushy that's what they look like.) But, when I would she would always ask me about our adoption journey. So many times it brought comfort to me in the wait--as talking about it for me--was always a blessing. During our wait, Lisa got pregnant--and I just learned--on this visit that her daughter is 14 months old. After Izabella and I left, for some reason that age seemed funny to me, then I realized--we have been home with Izabella 14 months too! Next time I go--I must ask her daughter's birthday--how sweet would that be if her birthday was the same day we met Izabella in China. :) God is so good. He is in all the details.

Izabella's ABC's

2011-01-06T10:25:00.000-06:00

1.6.2011: In the last few days, Izabella has started to say her "ABC's" it's pretty cute.
Sorry it's sideways--don't know how to turn it--took it with my phone (not prepared with my video camera.)

We raised $215 for Susan G. Komen!

2011-01-04T15:31:00.000-06:00

Our first annual “Trick or Treat for the Cure” was finally tallied last week! We were waiting on a couple container turn-ins and in the end we were so pleased to have collected $215.

Izabella with the check, the donation form and envelope, collection cup and "Tally Jug". Just before we put the check in the mail. She said, "Don't worry Mommy. Doctors fix all the Mommy's now."

As you all remember, I think Beggar’s Night is great fun for our kids, no doubt because it combines the fun of playing dress up with a rewarding bucket full of candy, and an evening of trolling the neighborhood scaring up treats from friendly neighbors. I thought it would be fun to put a new twist on beggar’s night and collect for a good cause too! Izabella isn't allowed to eat much candy at all, so this would be a perfect alternative. As it turned out--folks couldn't resist giving her both. But, as I commented earlier, it gave a whole new meaning to the night for us as we made our way around our neighborhood.

But, even more special, is the unexpected partner I found in my new friend Lori. You see it seems, my Izabella and Lori have something in common--that crosses across all generations and cultures--losing your mom. That's why Susan G. Komen was the perfect organization for us to collect for. As you all know, Izabella lost her mom in China at the tender age of 10 months and Lori lost her mom after a 12 year battle with Breast Cancer a few years ago. So, once we knew that, Izabella decorated a cup in Memory of Lori's mom and collected money in memory her. This was an emotional part of our journey that evening. As each time we collected, we shared the story of Lori's mom and why we were collecting. Lori related to us, her Mom would be delighted at what a fearless and gentle collector she was that night. I was so proud of her. I look forward to collecting again next year.

Izabella and Mom with her Cup decorated in honor of Lori's Mom!

Needless to say, my one-cup mission to teach my daughter the value of giving back, and how the lesson of how to franchise a fun event into a meaningful one as well, turned into full on fund-raiser. All of which would not have happened without Lori. She got involved and the program spread to her hometown of Adel through her small active hometown church, as they distrubuted cups at their annual "trunk or treat" event. They're collections were a large percentage of our donation and they're enthusiasm were such a welcome reward to Lori and myself as we worked through our first year.

We collected in West Des Moines and in Adel--and once we were were finished, we gave Lori the cup Izabella decorated in memory of her mom. We all teared up at this moment in our Trick or Treat journey. It is my hope, other children will collect in honor, or memory of someone they know that is fighting the battle, lost the battle or survived the battle with breast cancer. This gesture can touch their lives and lift them up beyond any amount of money.

In addition, Lori passionately brought several sponsors on board with cups donated by the Machine Shed Restrauant, and the Affinity Credit Union encouraged their members to take cups and collect along with us. My niece Katie worked with Staples Office Supply on Merle Hay Road to supply the much needed labels and posters we needed, and few of our very special neighborhood friends (special thanks to Nate, Natalie, and Luke) also collected for us.

This was our first year--we didn't have a lot of time or resources to get the word out--but next year--watch out central iowa--our kids will be out for tricks and a few coins for a good cause too! It is my hope this event will live on--to see many lives touched and the donations go on to save "so many moms, grammy's, daughters, friends--fearless women" all around the world.

Affinity Credit Union generously counted our 'Jug of Cash" for us and cut a complimentary Money Order for us to send to Susan G. Komen. Below are pictures from the big "count" day.

Lori signs the $215 Money Order!

The teller was so good to us. Izabella sat in her window and watched it all happen.

Izabella and Lori hold the check for the money from the drive that their "Mom's" Inspired.

A very special thanks to the Affinity Credit Union who have already agreed to support our efforts again next year. This partnership is crucial in bring integrity to our program for all that get involved.

Just a winter day shoveling....

2011-01-04T11:55:00.000-06:00

We haven't had much snow this year. So Izabella loves to get out in it when we do, and she loves to help us with everything. (So hope this continues as she gets older--I'm told it will not--but you never know), so she went out to help Dad shovel the driveway. I love her rosy red cheeks.

Happy Little Helper!

That shovel looks huge in her little hands.

Being Silly with Daddy.

Hey Mom! You wanna help?

Yup! I'm a happy shoveler!

"uuuuh"

Yeah! I got it.

Ok Mom. We're coming!

Day after Christmas lazy day...

2011-01-04T09:17:00.000-06:00

12.26.2010: The day after Christmas was a really lazy day. We spent the morning in our front room, I learning about my camera and taking some experimental shots with it of Izabella, Dan working on fixing his GPS, listening to music, and Izabella donned in her princess dress and crown playing princess, looking for her prince/king (she hasn't figured out the king is the prince's father yet), taking a ride on her harley with her prince/king. Pretty funny, and going to the ball to dance with the prince/king.

Just some fun pics from that morning here.

Ooops...my princess dress is caught on my harley wheel.

Sad because, "I can't find my prince!"

"Hi Mom."

Daddy gave Izabella an mp3 player, he loaded some music on it and this was her first reaction.Although she hasn't shown much interest in it since. I LOVE the look of happiness and JOY on her face. It never grows old for me.

Playing a round with Daddy.

"Daddy tickle me again!"

A quiet second.

Daddy was dancing and twirling her around. I love the movement in this shot.

She was running around and around chasing Daddy (her king).

A quick rest.

I love this pic. Don't know why--just do.

"I'm going to catch you!"

Daddy is so fun.

A very old handmade sweater!

2011-01-03T17:02:00.000-06:00

1.2.11: This little sweater and hat was made by me--and finished up by my mom. I started the sweater for 'my daughter" in 1985 and got it done up to the collar. It moved in my knitting basket with me from VT, to CA, back to VT and then to IA over a 15 year period before my mom so graciously offered to finish it up on one of her visits to see us in early 2002. Then sat in my "hope chest" until this winter--when it fit our Izabella! And it looks better than when I dreamed of a daughter while knitting it over 20 years ago.

Note...the heart necklace...:) Just like mommy's!

OK..I love how this shows the color a little better. And her little lips are so perfect. :)

LOVE this photo...look at that precious face.

Is this the funniest look ever? I love it! Couldn't resist...or is it the hat and the look? Hmmmm....

Christmas Day!

2011-01-03T16:34:00.001-06:00

12.25.2010: Christmas Eve Dan got a call that he'd have to go into work to take care of icey roads at 1:30am Christmas Morning and he wasn't sure when he'd be home Christmas Day. We were all bummed. We were so looking forward to this Christmas. Izabella had really grasped the magic and miracles of Christmas and we were all looking forward to that morning. All we could do was pray.

Before the call came in--we were outside most of the morning, enjoying the new snow fall. Dad made it especially fun when he pulled out our riding lawn mower (san mower blade deck) and hooked up Izabella's sled for a ride on our not plowed yet side street. We had so much fun. As you can see. And incase you wonder if it was safe--we couldn't go much over 5 mph. It was very safe. Some would think we were nuts, but it was reminiscent of the days of riding our toboggan hitched up behind our snowmobile when I was a child. Sooooo stinkin' much fun! Just an urban version--san snowmobile. :)

Izabella and I went to Christmas Eve service while Daddy hit the sack early as his call in was so very early. The Christmas Eve service theme was "Illumination" and it was a sight to see. Very beautiful, I think by far one of the most beautiful Christmas services I've ever attended. The sermon was about how "light" is referenced in so many of the passages, especially in the passages that tell the story of how Jesus was concieved and born. Izabella was such a good girl. She sat quietly and patiently on my lap during the sermon, but was still as a statue when a pregnant "Mommy Mary" appeared on the alter with "Daddy Joesph". We had talked alot about the birth of Christ--so she was fasinated. She pointed and said, 'Look Mommy, it's Mommy Mary! Where baby Jesus?" Of course I explained he was not born yet. Later in the service, Jesus was born and we learned about the shepherds that visited him and followed the star to where he was. It was beautiful. Truly Precious. At the end we sang "silent night" and every held a lit candle. She loved, loved this part--as I explained that this light was like the light in our life from God. Look at all the lights of love from God in all these people--thousands!" It was so moving. When it was time to leave, Izabella said, "I want to do it again Mommy." Of course we will again next year.

We arrived home and made our Sugar Cookies for Santa. Wrote him a letter and sprinkled the magic reindeer oats outside for Santa's reindeer treat. Then we opened one "toy" gift and her new Christmas jammies "gift". And it was off to bed. It didn't take her long to go down--we had a very full and exciting day--she was pooped. Before she went to sleep--I told her Daddy might not be home in the morning, so we'll need to wait upstairs for him to come home--then we can go down and see if Santa came. Then we prayed that Daddy would be home early so we could have our special day together--Jesus' birthday, and Christmas.

Christmas Morning, I heard Izabella stir. So I jumped out of bed to be sure she didn't go downstairs. Just as I got the hallway--she was headed out of her room--and we heard something--the girls (our dogs) did too and headed downstairs with a flurry. Could it be? Could it be Daddy was home? We scurried downstairs to see. As we got the bottom of the stairs--there was Dad coming into the kitchen after feeding the girls. It was an answer to prayer--my Christmas was perfect, cause Dad was home.

We had such a grand day. We opened our gifts and enjoyed every moment of it. Then I started dinner, my niece Katie came over to join us of dinner and exchange gifts and we even got to meet her new special friend Andy. He is such a nice guy--I am so happy she is happy! We skyped with my sister, brother-in-law, brother and sister-in-law, my nephew Ryan and my Mom. It's so nice to have a way to be together from thousands of miles away. Although we wish we lived closer so we could all be together--we're thankful for what we have. Then, we finally had dinner--much later than I had planned, the rolls didn't come out like I wanted and the turkey was a little dry, but hey--we're fortunate to have dinner and family. Dad was exhausted so he headed to bed early and Izabella and I had a quiet evening together.

Our Christmas Miracle: I asked Dan why he was home so early? Did they let all the guys go? He told me, 'No. Infact he'd still be working if he hadn't gotten a flat tire with his truck."

Here's a whole bunch of pics of our day. :)

This is actually a video still--she helped me address (ok just the ones we hand delivered), lick and stuff our Christmas Cards! It was adorable.

Another Still--this is Izabella Stuffing Envelopes

And addressing them with LOVE and lots of "faces" and "letters"

A video still again--I she finally got to make a "snow angel", but the snow was to light for a snowman! Cute video I'll put up later.

Lawn mower sledding. :)

I got to ride along too...we had so much fun.

Checking Santa's Christmas Cookies in the oven--again a video still...video to come.

Writing her letter to Santa Video Still...

Here Christmas Eve Gift was a Dr.'s Kit. She LOVES it--and is the perfect "healer".

The finished Santa Letter and cookie.

Yup...she was a super good girl. Santa came..and brought a pink flute, pink princess dress with a polka dot bow and a heart necklace like mommy's. It has 6 stones inside it--one that represents each of the following: Joy, Faith, Hope, Courage, Love, Patience.

Izabella Sleeping with Visions of "Sugar Plums" in her head. :)

Santa CAME : Playing her flute, with her heart necklace on and her princess dress on.

This was a wooden train set--it was super heavy! She managed to get it over to where she can open it. Upon which she began to pant heavily and say, "Whew. I need to take a breath."

She is such a great mommy. She loves this little baby set.

And she loves this truck that is just like the one Daddy drives at work!

Just a cute picture of her excitement.

Oh...Man...she did not like this Grinch! Too funny. We purchased it with the book, the proceeds go to charity. It will be more fun next year. :)

This is Izabella raising her hand...I'll be next Mommy!

Her Gramma Arndt made this very special blanket for her. SHE loves it. Can you tell?

OH Yes and the "pillow pet" A DOLPHIN. She sooo wanted one of these.

Then she curled up with Dad with it and pretended to fall asleep--snoring and all.

Another beautiful baby--that looks just like her!

Thanks Dad for putting my train set together!

Dan and Izabella being goofy...as usual.

Izabella's turn to be "bow face"

sniffing a flower she made with her "bristol blocks"! A couple new super fun sets from Aunt Shelly and Uncle Topher!

Katie and Izabella doing a hi-five with the bristol blocks "hands".

Playing Go-Fish with Andy and Cousin Katie!

A sweet picture with Katie and Andy.

And just cause it's fun--"a goofy" face one too! Great way to end a perfect day!

New Year 2011 and a Wonderful Birthday!

2011-01-01T21:14:00.008-06:00

12.31.2010: New Year's Eve 2010! It's simple, it's wonderful. Great food, friends and lots of fun. We had such a wonderful night with our friends ( I'd love to call them family--feel as though we are at times). There is no place else I would have rather been.

Matt made an amazing Italian Pot Roast Sandwich--man that was good! You know, the kind that you eat the whole thing--even though you're full--cause it taste sooo good. And these yummy potato appetizers--and delicious roasted asparagus--gourmet! I made my Peaches-n-Cream Coffeecake for dessert and it was yummy too. Oh did I mention the spinach artichoke dip with pita chips? oh yeah...Shayna and Matt you out did yourself. So very good.

Then we just sat and visited, admired the new baby stella and raved about how good she is, and how stinkin' sweet she is. And watched a sight I had waited so many years for--Shayna's daughter Zophia (now 4.5) and Izabella 3.5 play--and they had such a good time together. I remember when Shayna got pregnant with Zophia--I told her I hoped we'd bring our Izabella home--and with any blessings from God--they'd be similar in age and be great friends. Well, it's true. That was 5 years ago--they are just a year or so apart...and we are blessed yet again. Which is why I start this post with my favorite pic...they decided it was more fun for me to take a picture of their little toes and feet--so--I did--and it's precious. They were giggling so loud!

Stella is just 4 months old--and Dan was completely smitten with her. She's so new to their family--and we don't see them often--so Dan got a little surpise when he saw her--he had forgotten they had "two". :) She is soooo precious!

The girls had fun with some New Years hats, beads and horns.

It's us...the Arndt's:) Love family pictures.

And our precious friends, "The Zmoleks" What a precious family they have.

This is one of my favorite pics. Little Stella, clearly loves her mommy! Isn't she just precious?

Can you tell Izabella was having a blast! That's her new Tinker Bell kit there next to her. We did our annual Christmas Gift exchange. It was so cute. Izabella and Dan went to get gas in the car, while I finished getting us ready to go. Before Izabella left she said, "Mommy, don't forget to bring Zophia and Baby Stella's gifts! Don't forget. Ok Mommy?"

This is absolutely my favorite of all picture! They are the sweetest children I know! I'm in love with both of them.

I will end the New Years Eve part of this post with this statement from Izabella upon our return home. "I wanna do that again Mommy! I want to go to Shayna house again. Have a party again. Ok Mommy? We go to Shayna house again."

I said, "oh yes Izabella. That's a great idea. We'll do that for sure and soon."

1.1.2011: Today was my 51st Birthday--for some reason when my friend Shayna said that to me last night--just hours before the big number flipped--It hit me odd. I hesitated a minute and said, 'Ah..yeah, you're right. It's 51!" Hmmm that's a big number. I don't worry too much about age, as life is only as long as it is--and there is no magic equation--so why worry about it. I'm not worried about it today either--but it was a bit of a reality check--I think I'm getting OLD. Oh well--it is what it is.

I had the sweetest day. I woke up to my precious daughter nudging me "Wake up Mommy. Wake up. Happy Birthday Mommy. Happy Birthday Mom!" So stinkin' precious, chokes me up a bit actually--and this morning when I related this moment to my mother (she, my sister, my brother and Robin called to sing me Happy Birthday --Katie did too--so fun!)--I actually broke down and cried with a very full, joyful heart.

I thanked my mom for giving birth to me--the labor she went through--and all the years of love she has given me. OK--tearing up again--I love my mom sooo very deeply! She said, "It was my pleasure Lisa. Actually, you were the easiest of the four. And you've always been such a good girl." I said, "Well I was the only one that you had a little champagne before too." She said, "No it was a martini!" My mom does not drink! So this is a bigger deal than it seems!

I love remembering the story my mom told me about the night I was born. The New Years Eve before I was born--at 10:19am on New Years Day. It goes like this: My mom and dad were confident I'd come in my own time--and it would be perfect. Until I was almost 30 days over due (doctors anticipated a Dec 1 baby), they decided enough was enough. My father decided he needed to take matters a little into their own hands and took my mom for a bumpy ride in his truck. No luck. Then he gave my mom and martini to relax her a little -- again my mom doesn't drink so she must have also been soooo ready to meet me. And that seemed to work, as she started to have labor pains. The doctor's house was in our little town--just down the street from where we lived--so they decided they'd go to the doc's house to see what he thought. This was around Midnight, new years eve, and the doctor was not out celebrating. He was in bed! But, a dedicated baby doctor, Dr. Harwood, welcomed my parents into his home. They sat around his kitchen table as he informed my parents, he would just snooze, (slumped over with his head in his arm on the table), and my parents were to wake him when she had another pain. When she would wake him--he'd check his watch and say, "Ok, let me know when the next one comes." They did this for quite a while, until the doctor determined it was time to go to the hospital. I don't know what time that was. (hmmm...need to ask mom). Then finally, at 10:19am on New Years Day I was born. What a warm, wonderful story this is to me. How many doctors would do this today? Not many I know. PS--I have the birth announcement from the news paper--it reads, "Mr. and Mrs. Wild Cota ( My father's name is Lyle, not Wild) welcomed a daughter, Lisa...." Too funny.

This doctor was very special. When I was in elementary school--they built and opened a new high school that combined 5 towns in our area. And they called it "Harwood Union High School" named after that special doctor, Dr. Harwood. He delivered just about everyone of the first graduating class kids. A fitting tribute to his special care and attention to the families and children in his community.

So...talking to my mom on my birthday was a highlight of my day. I could have contentedly talked with her all day. I love you mom.

Izabella and Dan let me sleep in--and sleep in I did. We are most always up at 5:30-6am. But I slept in til 9:45 (10:45 EST-which is where I was born) I found some irony in that timing. And arose to come down the stairs to my Izabella waiting for me at the bottom excitedly saying, "Mommy! Happy Birthday Mommy! Happy Birthday Mommy!" Then the big guy in the kitchen bellered out, "Happy Birthday Mommy!" as he stirred up a batch of yummy pancakes (my favorite breakfast.) and prepared me a cup of coffee. And Izabella pleaded for me to open the gift they had for me. It was just what I asked for "New pajama's" Daddy's old t-shirts are the normal pj wardrobe. Izabella has some really soft comfy jammies and I wanted some too. :)

Then I looked at my phone to see "soooooo many beautiful messages from my dear, dear, friends and family." Soooo sweet, and so unexpected.

Then we headed out for lunch, yeah , no cookin for this birthday girl! After we were home Daddy prepared each of us an ice cream cone--on a plate with candles and all--and I got a wish too. Izabella kindly reminded me before we blew them out--that "Mommy, don't forget to wish!" Cool!!!

And after playing doctor with Izabella and her baby's, a couple hands of "old maid" and 4 games of "go fish" with Izabella, and no nap for her today--we headed up early to put PJ's on. She was so excited I'd get to put on my new PJ's. I love them! Wish I had a few more pair. :)

Then we sat down to watch some football--and read a book to Izabella..."I love you Sleepyhead" a very sweet book from Scholastic book club...love that club. Before I knew it, I felt this little head drop onto my shoulder--she moved a few times--trying hard to stay awake, but, that was it. She was gone, propped up on the pillows next to me--head on mommy's shoulder. What more can a girl ask for. I hated to bring her upstairs to bed. I miss her when she's not with us. I wrapped my arms around her--kissed her all over her face as I held her in my arms, with a tear in my eye--I looked at Dan and said, 'I hate to bring her up. I'll miss her. She's the sweetest thing ever!"

Night, Night sweet baby girl. I'm still, yes honestly, no bluffing here, STILL in awe of you and that you are my daughter--forever and ever and ever. What a mind blowing gift I have been given.

So...anyone that knows me knows..it doesn't feel right if I have a birthday that doesn't have a Christmas Tree, the Rose Bowl Parade, Football (you can see all of those in the pic of Izabella and I to the right). And now, my loves, Izabella and Dan. Oh yeah, Izabella would be upset if I didn't mention her baby was there too.

Thank you for a beautiful day! I pray this next year is better than last year, for us and for everyone struggling out there. If today is any indicator--it's sure to be MUCH, MUCH better. :) So, hang on 2011 here we come.

Miracles and Magic...whalla!

2010-12-22T07:21:00.015-06:00

Click here to watch PART ONE of the Arndt Family Holiday Video.

Click here to watch PART TWO of the Arndt Family Holiday Video.

This holiday season has been so wonderful. God has blessed us with immeasurable moments we don't ever want to forget. It's Izabella's second Christmas with us, but her first one really understanding the meaning of Christmas and the Magic of Santa Claus.

It's been such a magical time of creating new traditions and sharing our old traditions with her. AND best of all--It's been full of surprises like:

• when our sweet friends (that are more like family) Shayna and Matt invited us to join them in the company suite for a production of "Disney on Ice"

• and simple surprises like the day it snowed for the first time and "stuck" and Izabella had the "idea" to ask "her" God to help it snow FASTER so she could go out and make a Snow Angel and a Snow man!

• the way she surprised us all with her performance at her first Christmas Program--with a bow and a curtsy at the end of each performance.Thank-you Katie for coming to your cousin's program--and bringing your video camera--this first time mom--forgot to check the battery--you saved the day--I'd be crushed if I didn't catch this performance on video for her and to share with family.

• the way we felt as her parents, "my heart so full of pride and appreciation" as we watched her perform.

• the fun of Izabella making her first Gingerbread House--and arranging a playdate with "family" (this is huge for us as we live hundreds and in some cases thousands of miles from our family) to join her.

• when my husband is over-the-top cooperative at our, very COLD (freezing infact) "self-timed" family portrait session, where he ran back and forth to the camera for us, and even took an extra set of photos of Izabella and Mom when the first round we had our eyes closed in all of them. This is NOT his favorite thing to do--it's mine--and I always capture some precious moments of Izabella and Dan, but miss having some special pictures of Izabella and I. This was a huge gift for me. I treasure those images. As a result it was so much fun to finally design our family Christmas greeting card. I have waited to do this for so long--and last year I was too sick to get it done.I have designed so many families greetings--and it's special to do so. I've even designed cards in previous years for Dan and I and the girls. But this year I took the time to do our family card--and it was a milestone of sorts for me.

• how Mom & Dad just beamed with joy on Thanksgiving Day, as they had their whole family with them, only missing one of their 6 children, and only 6 of their grandchildren weren't there (who couldn't make it home from Texas and the grandchildren--one is serving our country at this time of war--and three are in training to do so).

• the way I ate up the fun decorating the tree this year--with Izabella's help. Even Dad didn't mind doing it this year. And I think it has to be one of the most beautiful tree's we've ever had.

• the joy of hanging 5 stockings on the mantel!

• the blessing of a "perfect" heart visit to the cardio doc. A huge blessing. Izabella says, "Doctor say, I'm fine." A miracle we don't ever take for granted.

• sitting at the counter preparing our greeting cards for family and friends with Izabella. She surprises me with all she can do. She figured out how to "stuff" the cards herself, and watching her run her little tongue along the seal was precious. I have video--but not downloaded yet. Another post.

• the un-expected tear in my eye, when Izabella opened a her surprise package of princess treasures--including her first pair of "ballerina" dancing shoes! What a treasure--from her Aunt Michelle and Uncle Ken.

All these little surprises and more are captured on video in this movie. It's a VERY long movie. But, full of all things Izabella--and after watching it again--gives you an idea what our beautiful life is like with her in it--Over the Moon Amazing and full of surprises--everyday!

Merry, Merry Christmas Everyone. I hope your days together are blessed immeasurably as well!

I will close with a very special story that I don't want to forget. During Izabella's time in the orphanage, her caretakers there shared, she had a special friend. A little boy named Ta Meng. Since we returned home, I have tried to get word of how he is doing. I have emailed the orphanage, posted on the Xian CWI yahoo group in search of his family, with no word. Then one day, I was moved to drop everything and try the yahoo group again. And we were blessed with a much anticipated update. But the news was not good. Little Ta Meng has been suffering for a year longer than Izabella with a parasite and scabies--he is not well. The miracle is, he does have a sweet woman in China advocating for him to get him into foster care, where he can recooperate and get back on his feet. So, our prayers at night started to include a specific prayer for Ta Meng. We always pray for ALL the children. Last night Izabella's prayer went like this:

"God. Thank-you for making Ta Meng feel better. And bring Ta Meng family back." Just before she prayed she said, "I got my family back. " A sweet way to say, "I had a family, I lost them, and then I got a family back." She then went on to say, "Mommy where Ta Meng live?" I said, "In China-where you used to live." She said, "Where do I live?" I said, "You live in America now." She said, 'I want Ta Meng live in America now. And, I, I, I, want Ta Meng ride pony. He hold on like I hold on." I said, "Yes, I want Ta Meng to live in America and ride a pony someday too."

On that note, I will close by praying for a miracle for Ta Meng--that he get well and find his forever family--very, very soon. Hang in there Ta Meng--listen to the words God whispers in your ear, and take comfort in His promise. It will all be ok."

Miracles and Magic--it's the reason for the season!

Christmas Part 2: Decorating the Tree

2010-12-21T19:22:00.000-06:00

Izabella was so excited to decorate the tree this year! She said, "Hurry, hurry! We have no Time! Santa is coming! And I have to put the star on top!" She's so much fun this year.
Here's a few photos of our decorating time together.

NOTE: Little Santa's Helper Izabella, Sadie the Reindeer, and Montana and "Ahhh...the --Who Cares Santa!"

Take a picture Mommy! I love how she touches my face, everytime we take a picture together. The only way to get her not to do this is for me to hold her hands--like on our Christmas Card. She's always done this--since our early weeks home. It's definately an Izabella thing. :) And I hope she never stops.

She helped me put on most all the ornaments. It was so fun!

And took her job very seriously. While Daddy watched football.

Christmas Part 1: Gingerbread House

2010-12-21T16:23:00.002-06:00

Izabella's cousin Katie (the creative cousin) came over to make a Gingerbread house with Izabella. They spent a few hours..and as you can see it's a pretty amazing gingerbread house.

Izabella said, "I want to do it again!"

Surprise! We Won! We Won!

2010-12-06T18:43:00.001-06:00

Update: We got the special blanket! Izabella loves it and sleeps with it every night! So many blessings!

Remember that amazing 30-days of Give-Away's I told you all about recently? Well, Praise God we won! We won!

A precious soft, blanket made by Mamaeant --an adoptive mom--designed like the flag of China. The woman who makes and sells them was determined to make a blanket for her daughter from Ethiopia, so she taught herself to sew.

And in the process found other mamas who wanted the same special blankets for their internationally adopted children. To help them feel more connected to their birth country.

Izabella is running around the room saying, "We won a blanket, a china blanket, yeah! And then she had to draw me the blanket too! She's not too excited is she?

We are so blessed!

Un-expected things...

2010-11-14T22:35:00.000-06:00

11.13.2010: This weekend was full of unexpected little "joys". I've put a movie together of the moments I captured--just us...a family of 3.

Izabella--Every day is an amazing day with you in it!

PS--today we found the most adorable tutu skirt with a polka dot bow on it and matching leggings. But daddy said, "No." So when I asked Izabella what she wanted Santa to bring, she said, "A pink princess dress with polkadots". She figures if Daddy said no, she'd just ask Santa to bring it. She had already earlier said she wanted Santa to bring her a "flute". It was her only request until we found the tutu we couldn't get. :) Too funny. This Christmas is going to be so fun. Last Christmas we were home just 8 weeks--still to new--still didn't really know what was going on. I still remember her standing in front of the tree looking up at it as if to say, 'What is this tree doing in our house?"

30-days of Give Aways..or more...

2010-11-10T22:19:00.000-06:00

Knowing Stephanie it will be more--everytime she does anything it always exceeds all expectations or original goals. It's fun to watch it all happen.

And if you're looking for a really, really special gift for that "someone" hard to buy for person--how 'bout "sponsoring a child from An Orphan's Wish" in honor of someone special. I can't think of a better gift--

Her little mind...

2010-11-10T21:23:00.002-06:00

M: Izabella what's your favorite color?
I: Red

M:what's your favorite toy?
I: China (her special stuffed painted pony)

M: What's your favorite clothes?
I: Princess Dress, Pink.

M:What's your favorite game to play?
I: "Turkey!" (Must be a game you play at school)

M: What's your favorite food?
I: Orange

M: What's your favorite thing to do outside?
I: Snow Angels. I want to make Snow Angels.

M: What's your favorite thing that ever happened to you?
I: You come get me Mommy! You come Mommy!

At Lunch Today:
Izabella and I were eating lunch together at a Pizza place. I know the owner Tom. He's a great guy--and he gave Izabella a BIG cookie and she was sooo happy. We don't usually give her cookies. Needless to say, Tom was a hit. And in Izbella's words, 'Tom good cook."

As we were eating our pizza, all the people in the restaurant left and the pizza makers (they make the pizza's in front of you), were all gone to the back kitchen. Izabella asked, "Where everyone go Mommy?" I explained that everyone had to go back to work. Just like Daddy has lunch and then he has to go back to work.
Then, I explained that everyone has a job they do.
Izabella asks, "What you do Mommy?"
I said, 'I'm an Artist."
Izabella asks, 'What Daddy do for work Mommy?"
I said, "Daddy drives BIG Trucks and Big Machines."
Izabella asks, "What Tom do Mommy?"
I said, "Tom is a Pizza Maker. He makes yummy Pizza."
I asked her, "Izabella what will you do when you get older and go back to work?"
She thought for a minute, then said, 'I be doctor Mommy."
I said, "Oh you'd make a wonderful doctor Izabella. You're so compassionate, kind and nurturing. And very smart. You'd be a very good doctor." Then I asked, "What will you do as a doctor?"
Izabella said, "I fix your babies Mommy."
I said, "Oh I won't have any more babies for you to take care of. Will you take care of other babies."
Izabella said, 'Yes, I fix all the babies."

Last night:
Izabella was downstairs spending some time with Daddy. I was upstairs working. When Izabella walked in my studio and said,
"Mommy, you come downstairs! Be Family."

Tonight as we headed to the car:

Izabella: "Wait for me Mommy!"
I turned around and they were trying to get her shoe back on. I said, "What happened Izabella?"
Izabella: "Daddy stepped on my Alligator Shoes."

Her "alligator shoes" are the shoes her Daddy bought for her that have a leopard skin pattern on them.

Dan and I just chuckled under our breath and didn't correct her--it's too cute.

Tonight in the car waiting for Dan to pump gas. I called to Dan, to ask him a question. He didn't hear me. So I waited for him to finish pumping. Izabella looks at me with the biggest concern and says, 'Don't worry Mommy, Daddy be right back. Daddy be right back, he won't leave." Dan entered the car again soon after. Izabella said, "See Mommy, Daddy right back."

It's a Chinese Princess Hair Clip!

2010-11-10T10:33:00.001-06:00

11.10.2010:

In traditional Chinese folklore, the tiger is believed to have special powers as king of the beasts to protect children. The tiger-head hat, given as a gift to a child, implies a prayer of blessing for the child as well as a celebration of the child’s loveliness and vigorousness.

I saw these hats for sale online at Jialyn Designs. Our special friend Kelly (remember she is the one that first showed us our Izabella's face) is facilitating all orders for a couple in China that is raising funds to support their growing family.

For me--it's a way to get authentically Chinese handmade cultural items for Izabella--and to celebrate her birth country heritage. I have been wanting to order since Kelly first told me about this project. She recently added a few very special items--one of which was these tiger hats--only $10 ea.(and there is a special Christmas Promotion going on right now--check it out)!

I love the folklore associated with them--infact, it wouldn't surprise me if Izabella's birth grandmother made her one when she was a small girl. Because, she is definately "lovely and vigorous" as the tradition says, AND she has been protected all her life by so many earth angels and our God in heaven.

Ok, I thought they were really cool--but once we got them, I realized how VERY special they are. You can feel the love that went into each handmade stitch. Izabella doesn't know her birth Grandmother--but the next best thing--it was made by a Chinese grandmother with the same tender loving care. You see these hats are hand embroidered complete with the traditional Chinese character for king stitched in the front middle. Each one is entirely unique and varies in color and design. Again, a beautiful way to celebrate Izabella's heritage and own a piece of artwork of a fading tradition.

Inside the package was a special envelope for Izabella--she was so excited. I ran upstairs to get my camera to capture her opening this special gift--of the earth angel that helped bring her home to us. As I was upstairs getting my camera--she yelled up from the bottom of the stairs, "Ok Mommy, I wait! I got it! I wait!" When I looked down at her she was holding--both the tiger hats, the envelope from Kelly, her special "family pocket purse", her sippy cup and was ready to find a place to sit and open. Too cute.

When we opened the envelope--there was a beautiful "Gotcha Day" card--with words that, when I read them to Izabella, brought tears to my eyes. And a gorgeous, handmade "tiger hair clip", also made by Jailyn Designs. I didn't know that's what it was called but it was so beautiful--I said, "Oh, Izabella it's a Hair Clip made just for Chinese Princess'!" She LOVED it--tried to put it on herself--I helped her and we both agreed we needed some pictures. So out we went to take some sweet Chinese Princess pictures--and sent them to Kelly as a thank you. Kelly then forwarded them to the sweet Grandmother that so lovingly made these items for Izabella. I hope it lifted her spirits and she felt the joy--she had a hand in.

If you haven't checked out Jialyn Designs yet--do so now for Christmas. They have some very special items--perfect gifts for Grandparents, and special family members of our beautiful treasured children from China.

Thank you Kelly! It's the perfect Gotcha Day gift for a little "Chinese Princess".

Side Note: When Izabella was dressing for the day, I asked her what sweater she wanted to wear. She said, "Grammy Sweater". I said, "ok. Which one?" She said pointing insistently at one of the many sweaters hanging in her closet handmade by my mother--her adoptive grandmother, "That one Mommy. That one!" That is the sweater she is wearing. I didn't think of it until I was re-reading this post--that she has a Chinese Grandmother Handmade with love hat and an American Grandmother Handmade sweater on. Wow...so sweet. God is so good!

"It's a Princess Dress!"

2010-11-08T21:12:00.000-06:00

11.8.2010: This morning Izabella wanted to dress herself. I had told her she could wear one of two precious dresses given to her by some sweet neighbors. She was so excited. She pulled the dress of choice out of her closet and danced around her room with it--saying, "Oh Thank-You Mommy--It's a Princess Dress." When I pulled out a pair of tights for her to wear with it--she insisted she needed to wear the striped ones--and her "alligator shoes". She calls her leopard patterned shoes her "alligator shoes". And to top it off--she had to put on her 'crown" (which is what she calls her headband--the one she actually wore on Adoption Day in China--although she doesn't know that).

I told her she looked so beautiful--I must have a photo before school. She agreed. We went out front and this is what I captured in less than15 photos--she was obviously very happy about this princess outfit.

I love this girl...she's so crazy wonderful.

This afternoon after her nap--she went to the potty--and returned with a pair of striped pants on--and her tights were off. I said, "what happened to your princess tights?" She said, "I changed Mommy. I not wear my LONG SOCKS." Ahhh..ok.

Then this evening--when it was time for PJ's--she wanted to sleep in her "princess dress". I almost let her--but decided that was probably not a good habit to start. She reluctantly took off her princess dress--put on her heart jammies--and fell asleep holding that princess dress!

No kidding. :)

Freedom! Precious Freedom!

2010-11-08T20:58:00.000-06:00

11.8.2010:

Sweet, Precious Izabella:

One year ago yesterday--we stepped off a plane that into Chicago Airport and your feet hit America's soil. Something that is an everyday occurrence in airports around the world. But to our family of three--and more importantly to you--this was a very big step. This step meant you would be free to have a voice about how your government runs your country, a freedom that is not a reality for the people of your birth country. You will have the opportunity to do and be whatever you want to be, whatever you set your mind and your heart to. You will be FREE--to be YOU in all the amazing ways God made you. You will have rights in your life that will challenge you and elevate you at the same time. You will have a life of your very own choosing. I pray you always appreciate and understand the meaning of this freedom, the sacrafices so many men and women have made in service to our country, and never take it for granted. I pray when given the opportunity or presented with the situation that allows you to stand strong for your new country--you will do so with immense pride and a sense of belonging. I know you don't fully understand this--another one of God's gifts to you--right now--but when you do--you know that no matter how you came to this country by birth or as an immigrant--our FREEDOM--is for all those that honor, cherish, guard it and respect it--this amazing country--you now call home--your America.

Happy Freedom Day our Chinese Princess! Your presence in our life has given us--new meaning to the word FREEDOM!

Ironically--this year--your first anniversary is also the voting season--and you accompanied us to the voting booth--and dropped Mommy's vote into the ballot box. Very special indeed.

This photo was taken in the Guangzhou airport, waiting in line to check our bags to America. It is one of the last minutes you would spend in your birth country--and you rode out of it on the wings of a chariot--loaded with baggage. Your daddy and I both commented on how you looked like a Chinese Princes a top her golden chariot.

On the plane--waiting to take off-- you had your first "head phones" experience--and you LOVED it! Hmmm...ipods here we come.

We flew, and flew, and flew for 20 hours across the ocean! Half way around the world to America. We watched the map as our plane drew closer to home.

Just as we took off from Chicago to our Home City, you reached over and grabbed Daddy's elbow, then reached across to touch me, knocked your head over on Daddy's arm and fell sound asleep. It was very moving--it was as if you were saying, "I have my Daddy. And my Mommy. And I'm safe, and will be home soon--exhale!"

As we landed in our hometown airport--your new home--I am reminded of this post from our travel blog about the end to a very long and very rewarding "magic carpet ride" to you and home.

Once home we took you for walks and introduced you to your new family and friends, your new home, your new puppies, your new room, your new bed and it's all yours

At your Daddy's Mom and Dad's home.

Daddy introducing you to your backyard and all the things surrounding you now.

November 8th, 2009

November 8th, 2010

You've grown soooo much! Last year you reached down and picked up a leaf and studied it. This year you wanted to dance like a princess. What will you do next year?