Sophie and Margaux

Summer - L'ete est la...

2009-06-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

I can't believe school's been over for two weeks. The school year sure went by fast! Both girls had an excellent year. Margaux ended her first year of preschool (pre-k2) and is spending her summer with our sitter, who took care of her last year while she was in-between daycare and preschool. I was planning on leaving her at the preschool for their summer program, but they turned out to be very expensive. This bossy little lady is now busy trying to rule over a new bunch of little boys.

Sophie had a great first year at her new school (Richland elemenentary for 2nd grade) and got all the highest honors in addition to receiving a special recognition for her exemplary behavior. To reward her, she's going to a special camp this week at a farm in Collierville. She's loving it, they have horses, bunnies, a swimming pool, moon-bounce etc. I wish I could afford to send her for more than one week... :( The other weeks, she'll be going to the Y camp or Central Camp (church really close to my work).

At the end of the week, we'll be heading to the beach for a cheap vacation. We decided (sadly) that we could not afford to attend our China travel group reunion and are just driving to Destin instead. We are hoping that the economy will start recovering soon and that things will be looking up by this time next year. We are way overdue for a trip to France, too. Thankfully, both of us still have our jobs, so we count our blessings.

Hope everyone is having a fun-filled summer. I will be posting pictures soon, including tons from the beach!

The girls professional Easter picture

2009-05-17T15:07:00.001-07:00

Cute... even though we could not get Margaux to smile at all... She still really enjoyed holding the bunny though..

Sophie's professional picture from her ballet recital

2009-05-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

Love this, and the costume is perfect for her...

Margaux's 3 year portrait

2009-05-17T15:01:00.000-07:00

These were taken at the new JC Penney on Winchester. I brought Sophie to make her laugh and it worked. The collage was a 10*13, so I could not scan quite the whole picture. The Hello Kitty outfit is perfect because her referral pictures included a pic in a Hello Kitty bean bag chair.

Margaux's birthday party

2009-05-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

We invited all her friends from daycare and part of our China group, plus all our friends. Chuck and I had the great idea to do it at the house and we ended up with a rainy day and 45+ people in the house! Yikes! You'll just have to trust me on that since I'm not posting pictures of our guests to respect their privacy.

Everyone still had fun though and the cookout was a success. The theme was of course, Dora and Diego. I found a pinata of Diego, which was no small fiest. Some of my guests thought he looked like he had swine flu (see picture) Too funny! That was something else we had to deal with, the birthday party was on the same weekend as w.hen all the panic was going on with swine flu and the media were telling people to stay home all weekend. I was worried no one would show up!

Next year will NOT be at home!

Margaux's birthday

2009-05-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

These are some pictures taken on her actual birthday (4/29). I can't believe my baby turned 3! We had a small cake and she got several books and DVDs. Her sister got her a Diego puzzle. The biggest hit was a set of a Diego shirt and underwear!

Dragon Fest

2009-05-13T10:48:00.000-07:00

Every year we celebrate Dragon Fest with our local FCC Group (Families with Children From China). We had a great time this year on Mud Island where the reproduction of the Mississipi river is. We had a picnic by the river and then the girls enjoyed racing their ducks down the little river. The end of the riverwalk is a pool representing the gulf.

Saint Patrick's Day

2009-05-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

I kind of cheated this year since Chuck broke my camera right before Saint Patrick's Day, but here are my gorgeous little ladies sporting their green

More Easter Pictures - encore quelques photos de Paques

2009-05-13T10:37:00.000-07:00

Random Easter Pictures - Paques

2009-05-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

In no particular order, some of our Easter pictures from several events. I think Margaux ended up participating in 5 or 6 Easter egg hunts and has become a pro.

Quelques-une de nos photos de Paques et de tous les evenements ou nous sommes alles. Margaux a participes dans au moin 5 a 6 chasses auz oeufs, elle est devenue pro et adore ca.

Field day pictures - journee sportive

2009-05-12T05:36:00.001-07:00

I am way behind with posting pictures, so they won't come in order..

Here are a couple from field day last Friday. Sophie took second place for second graders in one of the events and she always enjoys the sack race. Also, a picture of Margaux just modeling a new outfit.

Quelques photos prises la semaine derniere a la journee sportive de l'ecole ou ils font des competitions par classes. Elle a eu la deuxieme place dans une des courses. Elle adore les courses en sac. Voici aussi une photo de Margaux, fiere de son nouvel ensemble.

Sophie's piano recital

2009-05-08T06:03:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of my girl. I can't believe how well she is doing after only a few months of piano. Let's just say she did not inherit any musical talent from her mother... :D

Funny things Margaux says

2009-03-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

She has been saying absolutely hysterical things. My favorite is she refers to her classmates and her teachers as "her people". So, she comes home and says "My people all here today" and then she proceeds to tell me the name of everyone in her class.

I'm told she's bossy (no surprise) and a leader. All the kids seem to adore her and like to follow her around. Chief trouble maker is what she is. I don't want her to be over the top, but I'm glad she's assertive. Makes for some tough parenting, though...

The other day, she saw some baby crocodiles coming out of their eggs and pointed to the TV and said, "Look mama, they're hatching!" I had no clue she knew that word.

Of course, we're potty training, and that comes with some pretty funny descriptions... :) She likes to explain how she "had to push that poo poo out hard".

Now, for your viewing pressure, our little miss passed out on the coffee table while eating lunch yesterday. Can't see how that's comfortable?

Diego undies

2009-03-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to report that we are potty training Margaux. Her teacher said she was ready, so we started last weekend and she's been doing very well. Only hitch is she had to have Diego underwear and they do not make Diego underwear for girls. So, I got her a big pack of Dora underwear and a small pack of *boy* Diego undies.

I have to say this child is obsessed with Diego. I did find one (boy) Diego T-shirt and she wore it three days in a row. I could not get it off of her. Now I'm looking for another one (so I can have a clean shirt on her) and have not been able to locate one so far.

Ballet Recital

2009-03-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

Sophie had her recital on Friday, and I'm happy to report it went very well.
Margaux was very concerned about where her sister went and very anxious throughout the program but did not throw a tantrum! Of course she had to steal some of her sissy's flowers!

Better late than never... Big snow day pictures!

2009-03-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

Gotchya Day 2009

2009-02-26T05:39:00.000-08:00

2 years ago we were handed a screaming little girl. She was so angry and sad. Now, our Margaux has blossomed into a beautiful headstrong toddler and we can't imagine our lives without her. We celebrated yesterday with her favorite food (potatoes from Taco Bell) and a cute cupcake with two candles. She got a kid DVD to learn Mandarin and some adoption books: a mother for Choko, A blessing from About, How I wished for you, and my favorite "Made in China". The reason I like this one is it represents our family perfectly with an older bio sibling and a little girl from China, plus it's dad talking to his little girl.

We love you Margaux!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-13T17:08:00.001-08:00

From our house to yours! :)

Another Chinese New Year picture

2009-02-13T17:01:00.000-08:00

Just got this one back in the mail. It was a professional one done that night. I can't believe how good it turned out, especially since Margaux was in one of these moods! Just goes to show how good the photographer is. I only bought the cheapest package because I thought they would be so so, but now I wish I had ordered more...

Anyway, aren't they gorgeous? I think this is one of the best ones I have of the two of them together!

Snow day

2009-01-28T06:50:00.001-08:00

Today was a snow day in Memphis. Check out the sorry little snowman Sophie, Margaux and our neighbors built. Remember this is Memphis! :)

Yesterday for Chinese New Year

2009-01-27T14:42:00.000-08:00

I dressed up Margaux in one of her silk outfits and authentic sqeaky shoes (took out the squeaks for school though) and made some little cards with a penny that I put in real Chinese red envelopes. I also printed a couple of coloring sheets for all the kids. Teacher said they had fun. In the evening we had some Chinese food to celebrate to. 2 years ago for Chinese New Year, we were on our way to China. It's hard to believe it's been that long already!

Gong Xi Fa Cai! Happy Chinese New Year

2009-01-25T10:46:00.000-08:00

FCC - Chinese New year

2009-01-18T09:26:00.000-08:00

This was last Saturday and Margaux once again had refused to take a nap. She was a bear (see the above pic), wanted to be held all the time, and just refusing to participate in most activities.

What happens when we refuse to take a nap...

2009-01-18T09:21:00.000-08:00

This was yesterday at 6 pm on the couch after she refused all day to take a nap.

Voila ce qui arrive quand on refuse de faire la sieste l'apres midi. 18 heures et on tombe...

The funny things toddlers say... De la bouche des enfants...

2009-01-08T10:15:00.000-08:00

So, Margaux's language has been picking up tremendously in the last few weeks, not only her vocabulary, but her elocution as well. Now that she really started she just keep yaking away just like her big sis. Anyway, on Tuesday, she told us very seriously (she does that very expressive face and opens her eyes really wide) "I scared of monsters". So, we ask her what kind of monsters, she says "blue monsters". Hmm, okay, where did that come from? She did the same yesterday, except this time they were green monsters. Finally, yesterday we were back to blue monsters.

Also, I've noticed she favors playing with boys over girls. When I asked who she played with at school, she always brings up the same three names: Coleman (her partner in crime, they always get in trouble together), Josh, Quentin. I think girls are too well-behaved for her, she likes the more rambunctious kids.

I'm very glad the girls are back in school this week, and back on a schedule. I could tell they were getting bored at home. 2 weeks is too long a break.

Le langage de Margaux s'es beaucoup ameliore les quelques dernieres semaine, pas seulement son vocabulaire, mais aussin son elocution. Elle nous as dit tres serieusement (elle ouvre les yeux tres grand et a cet air tres grave) en anglais "Moi peur des monstres". On lui a demande de quels monstres, elles nous a repondu des monstres bleus. Nous ne savons pas d'ou ca vient. Avant-hier, elle avait peur des monstres verts, et hier c'etait de nouveau les bleus.

J'ai aussi remarque qu'elle prefere jouer avec les garsons plutot que les filles. Quand je lui demande avec qui elle a joue dans la journee, elle me donne toujours les memes noms: Coleman, Josh et Quentin. Je crois que les filles ne font pas assez de betises pour elle.

Je suis contente que les filles soient retournees a l'ecole cette semaine. Cette pause de 2 semaines etait trop longue et elles commencaient a s'ennuyer.

Christmas morning! Le matin de Noel!

2008-12-25T07:18:00.001-08:00

Christmas fun! Activites de Noel

2008-12-25T07:11:00.000-08:00

Here are some miscellaneous pictures of the Christmas season. Both girls really enjoyed the fake snow at the Alpine village. Margaux is still not crazy for Santa.

Voici quelques photos de la saison. Toutes les deux ont beaucoup aime la fausse neige. Margaux n'aime toujours pas beaucoup le pere Noel

Hysterical Pre-school Christmas picture outake.

2008-12-12T16:33:00.001-08:00

Margaux agreed to pose for one picture and she was done as illustrated by the second picture! Chuck and I laughed so hard. She is definitely showing some attitude and in the middle of the terrible twos! That expression is just priceless and totally her!

Holiday Pictures 2008

2008-11-30T11:44:00.001-08:00

These were taken today at Portrait Innovations.

Some Thanksgiving bows!

2008-11-22T08:24:00.000-08:00

I took the girls out this morning and snapped some Thanksgiving pics before we officially switch to the Christmas season in a few days. Check out Margaux's awesome turkey bow!

J'ai pris quelques photos pour Thanksgiving ce matin. La celebration de la dinde sera ce jeudi.

The shirt says it all!

2008-11-19T16:14:00.001-08:00

Sophie's 7 yr checkup - Visite des 7 ans

2008-11-05T05:31:00.000-08:00

Well, my peanut is very much a peanut. She weighed in a 41 lbs, just below the 10th percentile and was 43 in 3/4 just below the 3rd percentile. I know it may sound bad, but that's where she's always been since about a year, so her ped is not concerned at all . When she was born she was not even on the charts! (4lb15 and 17 1/4 in full term). She's very healthy, no issues or concern. She got a chicken pox booster and her flu shot. Of course she cried big crocodile tears! We sill need to get Margaux her flu vaccine, which will be quite an undertaking.

Ma puce est toujours une puce. Elle pese 19 kg et mesure 1m11 ce qui la place dans le 3eme pourcentage pour la taille et le 10eme pour le poids. Elle reste la ou elle a toujours etee, donc le docteur est satisfait. Elle a recu un rappel pour la varricelle et son vaccin contre la grippe. Il nous reste a faire celui de Margaux, ce qui ne va pas etre facile!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2008-10-31T09:16:00.000-07:00

For your viewing pleasure!

The giraffe and tiger are the official costumes and they will get to wear these again tonight for trick or treating at my office and in our neighborhood.

The flower fairy was Margaux's costume for pre-school

La girafe et le tigre sonts leur vrais costumes, et elles vont les porter pour la troiseme fois aujourd'hui a mon bureau et dans notre quartier.

La fee etait le costume de Margaux pour l'ecole (il fait trop chaud dans la girafe)

More fall pictures - Encore quelques photos d'automne

2008-10-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

Here are some new pictures taken on Saturday at a birthday party at a farm and at the Family with Children from China Harvest fest. These are mostly Sophie's as Margaux was less than cooperative yesterday

Voici quelques photos prises hier a une fete d'anniversaire dans une ferme et a une celebration d'automne avec notre groupe chinois. Ce sont surtout des photos de Sophie, parce que Margaux n'etait pas trop d'humeur aux photos.

More pictures

2008-10-13T15:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of Sophie with Daisy and another one of her birthday cupcake.

My "baby" is 7!

2008-10-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? This year, we decided against a big party and had a sleepover instead. She invited 4 friends and 3 stayed overnight. I bought crafts and little things for them to do. This was last Friday and yesterday, her actual birthday, we went out to eat and met some friends, including Daisy, whom Sophie absolutely adores. Later on I took her to Build-a-Bear and Toys R'Us so she could use the $3 coupon they sent her and some of her birthday money. Overall she was very happy. She finally got the aqua-dots she had been begging for, but she's very frustrated with them because they don't stick together well.
The pictures are from the sleepover party. I need to post some other pictures from our family celebration.

Fall festival and pumkin patch

2008-10-12T16:08:00.001-07:00

Just sharing a few pictures that were taken last weekend at the preschool's fall festival. Margaux got to pick out a tiny pumpkin and was very excited!

Principal's List

2008-10-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

Sophie got two awards for her first six weeks at school: perfect attendance and Principal's list. She got to wear jeans and a non-uniform teacher as a reward for the perfect attendance. The principal's list means all A's and no more than one S (all Es) for non-traditionally graded subjects. She did get an S (Satisfactory) for handwriting, everything else was E (Excellent). She was very proud of herself and the ribbons are being displayed in the kitchen.

She has adjusted to her new school very well overall, although she still wishes she were back at the old school and misses her 1st grade teacher and her old friends.

Last taste of Summer

2008-10-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

Our neighbor Judy had a last pool party on Sunday before she shut it down this week. We had a great time. Thankfully she has a heater so the water was actually warm. The girls had a blast, as you can tell from the pictures!

Today is the first day of October! Hard to believe Halloween is around the corner already. Then of course Thanksgiving and Yikes! Christmas. Santa needs to start putting his thinking Christmas hat on and figure out the girls list.

October is a very busy month for us with Chuck's birthday, Sophie's birthday, my mom's and several other family members and of course Halloween. We also have different Harvest festivals and end up being booked every weekend.

Mid-Autumn festival aka Harvest Moon

2008-09-22T05:40:00.000-07:00

We went to the Mid-Autumn festival with the Chinese association last week to watch the dancers and other performers and eat moon cake. Here are the girls with their lanterns.

We will be having the same celebration with our FCC group next month.

A couple of Margaux pics

2008-09-22T05:33:00.000-07:00

I was selling this dress at at a consignment sale and wanted to squeeze Margaux into it first. I'm going to print these to make them look like old time pictures.

Better late than never... some fair pictures

2008-09-16T16:15:00.001-07:00

These are about a week and a half old. Fair was not that much fun, especially since it was a very very hot Memphis day.

My new favorite song

2008-09-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

I really love this song. I usually love Sheryl Crow anyway, but this is very different style for her. IdDid not even recognize her at first.

Here's what she has to say about "the children of Abraham". Taken from the blog on her website.
Abraham is a prominent figure in both the Torah and the Koran, as well as in the Old Testament. He is claimed by both Arabs and Jews as their ancestor. In a statement from my co-author, Bill Bottrell writes, "The song invokes the phrase, "Children of Abraham" as a plea for peace between Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. We point a finger at the media and the leaders in any camp who incite hatred based on historical feuds. In the song, all parties are gently challenged to reconcile the past and ignore the war-mongers."

The girls made it into the "From China with Love calendar" 2009

2008-09-11T10:46:00.001-07:00

I do not know what month they will be on yet. I've preordered the calendars and I think they'll arrive towards the end of the month.
I submitted a Portrait Innovations picture from last year with both girls in a white and green dress. I've been getting this calendar every year, I keep it a work. It's really pretty. I remember looking at these little faces when we were waiting and now my own little ones will be in there!

This is the e-mail I got last week

Dear Parent(s):

Congratulations! Your child’s picture has been accepted for inclusion in the 2009 “From China with Love” calendar produced by FCC-Indiana.

What a joy it was to see so many beautiful, smiling faces. We want to extend our sincere appreciation to you for taking the time to prepare a submittal.

We are pleased to announce that the proceeds from last year's sales were donated to help US based, non profit organizations that have established authorized charitable initiatives in Chinese Children's Welfare Institutions. This calendar is truly a labor of love with volunteer parents donating countless hours producing the calendar.

There will be 4000 calendars printed this year, so be sure to purchase yours early while they are still available. As in the past, the calendar will be available through the following websites:

Asia for Kids – www.afk.com
Celebrate Adoption – www.celebrateadoption.com
China Sprout – www.chinasprout.com
Culture for Kids - www.cultureforkids.com

Our hope is to feature as many different children as possible throughout the years, so please help us spread the word to other China adoption groups you may have contact with. We are so thankful that we have this opportunity to share with the world what a blessing we have in these precious children.

Thank you for your support and we hope to see a photo entry from you next year.
Please visit www.fcc-in.org to print an entry form.

If you have questions please feel free to contact the calendar committee at nev03dan@aol.com .

Sincerely,

FCC-Indiana Calendar Committee

Growing pains?

2008-09-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

So, Sophie has been complaining of chest pains for about 10 days. On Wednesday, I had Chuck take her to her pediatrician, who could find nothing wrong with her a suggested it was just skeletal pain (i.e. growing pains). I talked to her on the phone and told her I was worried since Sophie was at times even crying, which is way out of character, as she is usually pretty tough. So, she suggested X-rays and they did those right away at the hospital. Came back clear also. So, it might just be growing pains, especially since she did gain a little bit of weight and finally broke 40 lbs! She weighed in at 41 lbs (and almost 7 years old)! Woohoo! Then I started wondering if carrying a heavy backpack had anything to do with this. She is so tiny and all that weight on her shoulders may be causing some pain. So, I'm going to switch her to a rolling backpack and see if that helps any. I have an older one she can use for now and I'm looking for a newer one. She wants to have it embroidered with an "S" and a jaguar.

Mommy is an American citizen!

2008-08-30T09:03:00.001-07:00

It's a done deal. I became a U.S. citizen yesterday along with 41 other people. I was a little disappointed in the ceremony itself, but I am glad it's done. I think they used to do some reception at the Peabody, but now it's just at the USCIS office. Now that Margaux and I are citizens we should never have to deal with them!

Ni Wa Wa - Too cute!

2008-08-28T16:34:00.001-07:00

Our guide sang this song to our girls while we were in Nanchang!

Oath for citizenship

2008-08-28T05:46:00.001-07:00

First, for your viewing pleasure a Margaux pic: my first attempt at tie-dyeing.

So, tomorrow will be the day that I officially become a U.S. citizen. I'm kind of excited but it really has not hit yet. I took the afternoon off from work and I have to be at USCIS at 2pm. The girls cannot come (no kids under 10 allowed) and Chuck can only come after 3pm. Will let you know how this goes.

Meanwhile, both girls have adjusted to their new schools beautifully. I'm getting all kinds of compliments on Margaux's behavior. I'm told she's very sweet and very well behaved. We're making some progress on the potty training also. Sophie is doing great at Richland. She seems to like her teacher and is starting to make new friends.

Margaux's first haircut

2008-08-21T17:10:00.000-07:00

Margaux had her first haircut on Saturday. Her hair was getting long in the back and I really wanted to even it out. I think it turned out really cute and it makes her look like such a big girl!

Sophie also got a trim. Her hair gets really dry after a summer at the pool. The pictures don't do the cut justice since her hair was still wet, but you get the idea.

2008-08-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

Article from China Daily

2008-08-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

Fewer kids available for adoption by foreigners

By Guan Xiaofeng (China Daily)

Updated: 2008-08-20 08:10

Fewer Chinese children are available for adoption by foreigners because more affluent families at home have started adopting them, the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) said on Tuesday.

"The number of Chinese couples applying to adopt children has risen substantially in recent years," said Wang Suying, a division chief of MCA's social welfare and social affairs department, which oversees adoption.

As promised - Margaux back to school pic

2008-08-16T09:46:00.000-07:00

Great start for Margaux

2008-08-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Back to school went without a hitch for Margaux... She has not cried so far although she was a little clingy today but it was over once she got blankey. Teacher's reports said she had a "terrific day" both Wed. and Thur. She did not eat much on the first day but made up for it the next day. Teacher made a note that she takes her shoes off all the time but is able to put them back on herself (little keds mary-janes). Not sure that I can do much about that. I'm worried that if I put her in tennies with shoelaces she will get very frustrated. I guess I can try.

She did manage to get scratched on her cheek by a kitten on her last day with her sitter! :( which is also the same day I completely ripped a tire on my way back from Sophie's school!

So, overall a great first week for both girls. Sophie's complaining they're not doing enough in school. I'm suspecting it's just because it's the first week.

I do have a Margaux pic that I will post later.

Back to school for Sophie

2008-08-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

It's official, Sophie is a second grader! We had to alter our routine and this morning was a little rough. This school has no parking and we had to park on the street about 1/2 mile down and walk with the huge box of supplies and Margaux in the stroller. It was not pretty.

We made it in barely on time (did not count on the long walk, and caught a train). I also started my day pouring spoiled milk in my coffee! Yuck! And there was not enough left for another cup! :( Sophie was pretty happy to go back to school. Luckily she has two friends in her class: one from pre-k and one from last year, so that should make the adjustement easier. The school has a decent size library and a full cafeteria, so we do not have to pack lunch!

Margaux gets her start in preschool (2yr) on Wednesday.

Here's a pic of my new second grader!

Summer is winding down and health news

2008-08-07T10:21:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the last day of camp for Sophie! Woohoo! School starts on Monday. We had registration on Tuesday and we will meet the teacher on Saturday.

Margaux starts pre-K 2 on Wednesday, so I still have to take her to Collierville through Tuesday.

Sophie is excited to go back to school, but a little apprehensive about going somewhere new. I think she will enjoy it, though, once she gets used to it. It's a bigger school than where she was before and they have a lot of after school activities etc. They also have a cafeteria wich means I won't have to pack her lunch every day.

We're also looking forward to the Olympics with all the China coverage. Our little China angel is doing well. She's making great strides with language and starting to talk more in full sentences. She has very good fien motor skills and has mastered using markers and crayons.

I had my follow up appointment yesterday. My blood work is pretty much inconclusive for PCOS. Both my glucose and insulin levels were normal but according to a ratio calculation they indicate mild insulin intolerance. I have a prescription for metformin and I need to go back in 6 months to check on the ovarian cysts and the fribroids.

A couple of beautiful pics taken at the zoo

2008-07-26T13:01:00.000-07:00

We went to a play date today, unfortunately no one else showed up! :(

We still had fun and the girls really enjoyed the butterfly exhibit. It's just so pretty. It was so hot, though, we just had to go before Sophie was ready to leave.

A toddler sense of style!

2008-07-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

Nothing like wearing mom's shades and Sissy's flip flops and hat! A little leftover ketchup in lieu of lipstick, I'm good to go!

A couple of straggler 4th pics!

2008-07-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

Mommy's 35!

2008-07-21T16:54:00.000-07:00

Yikes, I can't believe the big one is here. I officially turned 35 on July 15! Here is my birthday cake. The girls helped me blow the candles!

4th of July pics

2008-07-09T13:37:00.001-07:00

My beautiful girls in their red, white, and blue!

More good news/bad news

2008-07-09T10:15:00.000-07:00

Mammogram results came back and are normal, that's the good news...

Bad news, on the ultrasound taken to measure the fibroids, cysts were noticed on my overies. My doc thinks I have PCOS, which is an endocrine (i.e. hormonal) issue. I have to schedule an appointment for more bloodwork in a couple of weeks before the diagnosis can be confirmed. PCOS is related to insuline resistance and can lead to diabetes. :(

I will know more in a few weeks.

Poor Chuck down for the Holiday

2008-07-06T16:49:00.000-07:00

He had been running 103-104 fever since Wed night and only worked a 1/2 day on Thursday and is just starting to feel better. So, we did not have much of a 4th of July, but we did manage to see the fireworks on Friday in G'town and that was about the extent of the celebration. I took some pics of the kids and will upload them later.

I had my mammogram last week and am still waiting for the results. My bloodwork came back and my vitamin D is low so now I'm on heavy duty vitamins and I have to get tested again in 8 weeks. My bad cholesterol was slightly elevated as well, I have been splurging a little too much lately. I'll have my ultrasound tomorrow to check on those fibroid tumors.

I passed my citizenship test!

2008-06-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

Woohoo! It was actually really easy. I was prepared for a 2 hour process and it only took 10 mins! I answered all 6 "civics" questions correctly, read one sentence and wrote another and that was about it. Of course I had to answer all the usual questions about terrorism, travel, etc.

After that, I went and renewed my license and got my car inspected. I know, not too bright since it was the last day of the month. I could have waited since I did not have to do it until the end of July, but I figured I might as well since I took the day off for immigration. Now I am just cranky from waiting in a hot car and I have a tension headache, but other than that life is good! :)

Nora: The Sequel - Better than the original!

2008-06-29T09:13:00.001-07:00

So cute! :) Can't say my kitties are this talented.

sophieandmargaux

2008-06-18T17:36:00.001-07:00

Create your own family sticker graphic at pYzam.com

Sucky news and good news

2008-06-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

Sucky news: got my annual today, and I have fibroids... Now I need an ultrasound to find out how big they are. I know it's not a huge deal, but that's not something I wanted to mess with. Plus, since I'm turning 35, I have to do my 1st mammogram too. Sigh... I hate going to the doctor's. On a more positive note, I love my OBGYN, he is just so sweet and so good. I showed him a pic of the girls and he asked to keep it.

Now the good news: Sophie is accepted at Richland, which means we'll pay about $400 less a month. That's the difference between the tuition for private school, and the extended care she'll have to go to in public.

Some of the Reunion pics

2008-06-18T16:57:00.001-07:00

Here are just a few of the pictures... I have so many of them and I need to resize them or it takes forever to load. The one of Margaux in Cades Cove is my new favorite.

We're back!!!

2008-06-17T18:48:00.001-07:00

We had a wonderful time. The cabin was great, the weather just a tad hot... We roasted in Dollywood. It was so much fun to spend time with our "China family" and actually very surprising to find out how alike the girls are. They have very similar voices and I could never tell which one was crying or complaining. I'll upload some pics soon.

We did the aquarium, Dollywood and Cades Cove. The girls and all the other kids (13 total!) behaved much better than anticipated.

Last School Report

2008-06-05T16:25:00.000-07:00

It came in a couple of days ago. Sophie did great: all As! Woohoo! Also, for behavior, all Ss (Satisfactory). Her last reading test has her in the 98% percentile for her grade, and reading at beginning of 4th grade level. WTG Sophie!

So far, she's enjoying the YMCA. Everything is good, except the drive, which is just killing me.

This weekend is Dragon Fest and on Tuesday we are leaving for our travel group reunion. I CANNOT wait. I'm am so excited to see several of our families again and what the kids look like now. We're going to Gatlinburg.

Article on transracial adoption (from Foster Care)

2008-06-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080527/ap_on_re_us/transracial_adoption;_ylt=Ah._uxFCyZkunh5Z3qlS5AlvzwcF

I have to say, this irritated me. The last thing adoptive parents need is more red tape.
I also did not like the part about placing with extended family members. Don't you think they would have come forward in the first place if they wanted the kids.

imagine

2008-06-01T08:07:00.001-07:00

Beautiful reunion!

End of school year

2008-05-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

Sorry I’ve been so bad about updating this blog.

I have a lot to get caught up with.

First, daddy handled the girls just fine while I was in California. He even had to learn how to make ponytails. I’m sure they were not the prettiest but it worked out.

The conference was pretty good, except for one presentation which totally horrified me. The presenter had pictures of girls in bathing suits and lingerie on every one of his slides, even though they had nothing to do with the topic. I can honestly say, I’ve never seen this blatant sexism in my 11 year career.
Sophie’s last day of school was last Friday. She’s had an excellent year. Straight As so far, but we’re still waiting for the last report, she got over 50 points in AR (advance reader), which means she has read and taken tests for roughly 100 books, she also got an award for spelling, and one for perfect attendance. I think it’s more of an award for me for getting her to school on time every single day. It’s also a reflection of how healthy she’s been all school year.

Last Thursday was Sophie’s first ever recital. She did very well. She did not freeze like I was worried she would and she looked very cute in her recital costumes. I will try to post some pictures soon. I still have all the pictures from my friend cat to post as well.

On Memorial weekend, we mostly hung out around the house, but we did go to the member-only event at the zoo, where the kids could play in the fountain. We met some of our FCC friends and had a great time. 10 years ago on Memorial weekend we were moving into our house.

On Tuesday, it was summer camp time for Sophie, and back to sitter for Margaux. She was not a happy camper (no pun intended). I think she really enjoyed staying home with daddy. She’s cried every day so far, she had never cried before when I left her with the sitter.

Shadow, also known as Sha-Sha, the 8-month old kitten, has been on a rampage. She’s been killing birds and rodents left and right. She has a very strong instinct. She’s even worse than Yoda used to be.

Margaux got some mosquito bites this week and they have been swelling again. I guess we’re not quite over that yet. I may have to try that “Mitigator” that Leaps and Bounds sells and see if that would help.

Mommy in California

2008-05-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

Because of travel restrictions due to the struggling economy, I had yet to travel on business with FedEx. On Sunday, I flew to LAX, on my way to the National Postal Forum in Anaheim with three of my co-workers. Good thing, it's three other ladies. Kind of reminds me of Sex and the City, other than the obvious fact we look nothing like them! :) I will fly back on Wednedsay afternoon. So, Chuck has to fend for himself with the girls. He's on vacation, so he has Chunky Monkey all to himself during the day. Sophie is in school for her last week. Tonight (Monday), she has to go sing for a teacher's retirement party, and Tuesday night is her dance rehearsal for her recital. Thankfully I will be back in time for the recital itself on Thursday. I'm looking forward to seing her dance!

In the meantime, I'm done with the conferences for the day and about to check out the hot tub. Weather is beautiful, company's great, and we're in a fabulous hotel, so I can't complain too much!

Chunky Monkey

2008-05-09T16:59:00.000-07:00

Margaux went to her doctor's appointment last week for her 2 year check-up. She got yet another clean bill of health. As chubby as she looks to us, I was very surprised that is only 25th percentile for weight at 25 lbs. She is 33 1/2 inches tall, which puts her at the 37th percentile for height. Of course both of these are on the US charts, so I still figure she's a pretty good size for a Chinese little girl. I found some growth charts on the FCC website for Southern Chinese girls and looked at those for comparison. On there, she is the 60th for height and 80th for weight, so definitely a good size!

sophieandmargaux

2008-05-08T16:59:00.001-07:00

Once upon a hammock

2008-05-02T17:13:00.001-07:00

This is what Sophie did to her face after falling off a broken hammock. This was done at the neighbor's. This was day 3 after the fall and it looked better than when it first happened and than the day after when it started turning yellow.

Birthday Dinner

2008-05-02T17:08:00.000-07:00

We took Margaux to the Chinese buffet for her birthday dinner on Tuesday. Unfortunately she had been sick that day and refused to eat her favorite thing - Chinese noodles. Instead she just had ketchup. This child just loves ketchup and will eat it with a spoon. This is her new photo face by the way. She thinks that's what you want her to do when you get the camera out...

Birthday girl

2008-05-02T16:50:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was so incredibly busy. On Saturday morning I had to get up very early to go to the March of Dimes. Since I was the coordinator for my work group, there was no escaping it. I left Sophie at home with Daddy, so he could take her to her ballet class and I took Margaux with the stroller. It was actually very pleasant. The weather was beautiful and I even spotted a couple of turtles at the park. Margaux was semi-cooperative, especially since she had some munchies to keep her busy.

After I got home, I waited for Chuck to come back and I ran out for the party shopping. I went to both Costco and Sam's. I was absolutely exhausted by the time I got home.

I just kind of vegged out until Sophie showed up. She had been playing at the neighbors and fell off a hammock. Her face was scraped everywhere. It just looked awful. It has since then turned several shades of bruise and the scratches are healing.

On Sunday, I got up very early to start cleaning the house. I kept going, making loot bags, and just getting ready until the first guests showed up. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate and we had to bring the outdoors party indoor. We were a little tight, I think we had about 40 people total, but we made it work.

The kids looked like they had a ton of fun We had a yummy cake and a butterfly shaped pinata.

After the party, I got myself a glass of wine and just chilled. I had a hard time making it through the work week and I'm thankful there's nothing planned this week-end, so I can try to recover!

Of ladybugs and pandas

2008-04-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

Like most China adoptive moms, I have a clear obsession with anything pandas and ladybugs. Pandas are obviously Chinese and a great symbol of the country. Ladybugs are reverred and a sign of good luck in China.

I've been collecting different items, clothing, stuffed animal etc with pandas and ladybugs ever since we decided we were going to adopt from China. This weekend was no different. I picked up this snugglekins panda for Margaux's birthday
http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2674068

Last Christmas, I ordered this bean bag chair, thinking it would be a huge hit with Margaux, as it's made for kids exactly her size.

I was slightly off-base as she's never really used it. However someone else has claimed it hers!

There's an alligator in my kitchen

2008-04-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

Check out this newstory!
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/04/22/gator.911/index.html
Yikes, I guess I'm glad I don't live in central FL.
We do wrestle some with raccons, but not 8 ft gator!

Easy transition to sitter

2008-04-18T18:18:00.000-07:00

It could not have gone any better. Once again I worried over nothing. Margaux did not cry on Monday or Tuesday. At most she whined a little on Thursday, but it was over not getting something she wanted. So, it's a big relief for us. She's very happy at Theresa's, enjoys the other kids and all the pets. There's even a duck in the backyard. Long story, but he was won over Easter and used to be green! The only drawback is I'm having to do so much driving. I hate being in the car for so long, and gas has become so expensive. Regardless I'm very thankful Margaux is at Theresa's!

Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/carolineharmon

I "know" them from an infertility and adoption community site I've been on for 8 years. This little girl just lost her battle against cancer. There are just no words. May you rest in peace little Caroline.

A new beginning for Margaux

2008-04-13T15:27:00.000-07:00

Sadly, Friday was the last day of daycare for Margaux. Both Margaux and Sophie have attended Underwood Methodist and it shut down after 35 years! :( It was very sad. I think of all the teachers and I hope they find another job quickly. They took wonderful care of Margaux.

So, tomorrow, we are off to Theresa's house and we will be there for about 4 months until pre-school starts in August at CTK. I just hope she does not have a hard time adjusting. It's going to be hard for me as well, because I will have to drop her off further into Collierville and then head back towards G'town (my office is close to the Collierville/G'town border). Also, since she'll be in Collierville, I'll be responsible for picking her up as well and in the summer I'll have both girls in Collierville, so p/u and drop off will be done by me every day for both girls. I figure this will add an hour to my day at least. But, we got to do it! Thing should fall back into a better routine when school starts again in the fall. Of course, if Sophie makes it into Richland, we'll have early mornings because it starts at 7:30!

Another Easter pic

2008-04-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

Here is the professional picture of Margaux with the real bunny... She refused to smile, but it's still adorable. Yes, there are no pictures of Sophie, who is "too cool" this year for a pic with a bunny.

Other news: Sophie is signed up for camp at the YMCA in Collierville. I'm hoping she likes it better than the Y over here in East Memphis. She complained all summer last year, because they spent too much time outside. I also offered camp at Central church but she wanted to go somewhere where they would swim every day.

Margaux is spending her last week in daycare. Next week she will stay with my friend Theresa. She'll be with her until the fall when she will start at CTK. Sophie will either be at Richland (if we made the cut) or return to CTK.

This past weekend was Ching Ming festival, or spring fling which got very muddy. It was still fun, though and we always enjoy seeing our FCC friends.

Easter Pics!

2008-03-28T16:18:00.000-07:00

Better late than never. Here are some Easter pictures for your enjoyment.

I took last Friday off and took the girls to a little farm in Mississippi. They got to do an egg hunt, get on a hay ride, a train ride, pet some animals, and last but not least ride ponies. This was Margaux's first time and she got pretty freaked out! We were there for about 4 hours and somehow Sophie and I managed to get sunburned. I did not even think about sun lotion, it's March and really it was not that warm. On Saturday, we went to the Botanic Garden for another Easter Egg hunt. It was another sunny day. The girls enjoyed the hunt, although Margaux voice some disappointment over the lack of candy in hers! Finally on Sunday, we had a great dinner at Sydney's house where we ate some wonderful lamb and enjoyed some great company. I had stuffed 106 eggs, which was quite a few for three kids!

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

2008-03-16T10:41:00.000-07:00

Well, we had another eventful week! On Thursday, while I was getting my oil changed at WalMart (bad idea, they are sooo slow), Margaux got a hold of the children's ibuprofen and somehow managed to open the childproof top. Since we did not know how much she had ingested, I told Chuck (over the phone) to take her to the E.R. while I was checking out and met them over there. It turned out it was not a very big deal, because at that concentration she could have drunk the whole bottle and it would not have harmed her, it would just have caused a bad tummy ache. Good to know! I guess I should have called poison control, but it did not even occur to me. Anyway, all that matters is she is fine!

Yesterday our egg hunt in G'town got delayed to Monday because of rain, which means we'll do the egg hunt on St Pat's day.

Here is my attempt at taking some pics of the girls in their St Pat's attire. I have to say they were not overly cooperative! :(

Last Home visit!!!

2008-03-11T15:39:00.000-07:00

We did our last home visit today for the second and last report that we owe China. It was all bittersweet really because this year has gone so fast and we know we will most likely never experience anything like this again. As much as the thought of adopting a little boy from China sound appealing, the reality is we can't afford it, and managing three kids and 2 full time jobs is probably more than we can handle.

After our snow day on Friday, we now have a gorgeous sunny day in Memphis. I hope the cold weather is over, I am ready to pull the girls' spring and summer wardrobe out.

Here are a couple of pictures of Margaux's room. I finally painted her letters the other day and Chuck glued them on the wall. Also, I got her a new bed set for her big girl bed from Overstock.

Margaux's first snow day!

2008-03-07T14:37:00.000-08:00

I just had to get her out there and snap a picture. We all know it'll be gone tomorrow!

Thursday Funny - Daddy, come look at the kittens!

2008-03-06T18:37:00.001-08:00

Got this on e-mail, I thought that was hysterical! :)
On a side note, I did run into a skunk once while I was in Maine. I looked at him (her?) thinking "what a pretty little groundhog", then remembered groundhogs are brown, not black and white. Thankfully, the skunk did not feel threatened by me, did not spray and just passed me by!

Margaux the snapping turtle

2008-03-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

Margaux has been biting everything and everyone in sight including classmates, Sophie, daddy, and me... When she got a hold of Chuck's arm, he could not get her off of him and described her as a "snapping turtle". She bit Sophie's arm while in the tub the other day. She cried pretty hard and ended up with a big bruise. It looks like most of the kids in the toddler room at daycare are going through this phase right now. I'm hoping it's a short one. Margaux's teacher suggested a book called "Teeth are not for biting". I may have to pick that one up.

2008-02-29T06:52:00.004-08:00

2008-02-29T06:52:00.003-08:00

Shadow’s wild adventures!

2008-02-29T06:52:00.001-08:00

We had a very eventful evening and morning. Our “teenage” kitty Shadow, almost 6 months old, had not been seen since about 6 pm. We turned the house upside down, and called her inside and outside, opened every door, closet etc but we could not find her. Sophie was pretty upset and I was worried sick. Of course, there’s always the threat that a raccoon could have gotten her, especially since she had pawed at one just days ago. The other possibility is that she would have been run over. The last, better, option is that she was hanging with our cat-loving neighbor, who must have a dozen house-cats and feeds every stray in the area. This brought back memories of when our beloved Murphy (a beautiful Himalayan, and Yoda’s baby) came missing. We never did find him. We suspect he was stolen because he was so beautiful and sweet. Of course, it’s very unlikely someone would still Shadow, she’s a just a regular black cat. I was up pretty much all night, hoping she would just show up. I had left the cat door open just in case. Well, this morning, still no sign of her. Finally as I’m getting ready to load the kids in the car, Sophie is screaming. We can distinctly see a pair of ears in my car. She must have jumped in when I unloaded Margaux. She was locked in there all evening and night with no food. I brought her in, fed her, and locked her in. No open cat door for her today! I am so relieved she was found safe and sound as she is the sweetest little creature! Now I have to make it through a day of work with little to no sleep! I’ll load up some new pictures this weekend!

First Family Day!

2008-02-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

Today is our first family day. One year ago we went into the conference room of a hotel in Nanchang and met Margaux for the first time. Se was not nearly as impressed with us as we were with her. It's hard to believe it's been a year already. Time really does fly. I'm so happy she is with us and she truly has completed our family. She's a little bundle of energy and mischief. We are just planning on a little celebration with a cake this evening after work.

10 Years ago, 1 Year ago

2008-02-23T06:18:00.000-08:00

Thursday was a big day for this family, the big fat 10 that is, our ten year anniversary. It's just so hard to believe it's 10 been years already. It's gone by so fast! Of course our greatest accomplishments are our two beautiful little girls. 9 years of of these 10 years were at least partly consumed with family building. We went through 3 years of infertility, including 3 IUIs, 1 IVF, and a failed adoption before finding out right before Valentine's day 2001 that we were expecting Sophie. It was a natural pregnancy, a total surprise. The pregnancy itself was a difficult roller coaster. I had just about every complication on the book. I had a dozen ultrasounds to check on Sophie and ended up being induced because she was IUGR (intra-uterine-growth-retardation). That was a scary word! She ended up totally fine albeit tiny at 38 week gestation and 4lb15oz. After Sophie came more infertility treatment including 3 IUIs, and more failed domestic adoptions. Finally we started the China process in January 2005, were logged in Sept 2005, and traveled to China on our 9 year anniversary last year.
So on the 21st 10 years ago we were getting married, and 1 year ago we were on our way to our beautiful Margaux!

To celebrate our anniversary, Chuck cooked a nice dinner on Thursday, and yesterday we went out for dinner and a movie (Juno, which was very good). We would have done more, but we are trying to save money for the summer to go to France since we have not been in 5 years!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T10:33:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Valentine's day. I woke up to two beautiful cards from the girls. Margaux's had a panda mommy and baby (how appropriate!) and Sophie's had a fat cat. Both were very sweet. Daddy did a great job picking out the cards as usual.

A face that says it all

2008-02-10T14:23:00.000-08:00

This is an out-take while trying to get Valentine-cherub pictures taken at Penney. I had these done several years with Sophie at picture people, but they shut down half of their locations including the one in Memphis, so I had to call around. Sears retired their wings and Penney has them but won't take pictures of baby girls without a top after a year old.. I was disappointed but I went ahead and did the pics with a little white dress.

This is Margaux showing her true mischievous side...

And this is my favorite, looking just too sweet...

For the actual Valentine Pics, you will just have to wait until Valentine's day!

Crazy week

2008-02-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

We made it to another Sunday! It's been a crazy week in Memphis with tornadoes ripping through the town on Tuesday night. It was a pretty scary experience to say the least. I left work at 4:30 and rushed back home. By the time I got 5 min from the house the sirens were going off. We all stayed close to the TV and cleared our closed, ready to jump in. We watched channel three and followed the storms. It came very very close to us, way too close for comfort around 5:30. Tornado ended up touching down in Southeast Memphis and causing some major damage and some casualties, It also touched down in Southhaven MS. We are very happy we did not sustain any damage, not even a lost tree. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected by this horrible storm. President Bush came to town yesterday to survey the damage.

Girls are doing fine. Margaux was oblivious and just playing with blocks. Sophie was terrified and just stayed on top of me the whole time.

Tagged by Bev!

2008-02-03T14:08:00.000-08:00

by motherhood and other ramblings to reveal 7 weird things about myself and then tag 7 more people leaving the unsuspecting 7 tagged messages on their blog. So here goes:

I'll do the 7 things about me, but I don't know who else to tag... Will have to think about that one.

1) I'm fascinated by ears. I always look at people's ears and I usually remember the shape of their ears rather than what they look like overall.

2) I cannot use the same dryer sheets all the time, I like to rotate scents

3) I don't care that I don't tan. I would NEVER go to a tanning salon, and I don't mind looking like a ghost. It was fashionable a few centuries ago, the look might come back, right?

4) I have flat feet, very flat. Think duck-like flat. Funny thing is so does Margaux! She was meant for us! :)

5) Chuck and I are 10 1/2 years apart. From the stats I have read this is very unusual.

6) I had a weird summer job, where I had to type up messages that people would call in onto other people's pagers and cell phone. People would always call in a pretend it was one of these "special" numbers. It got old very fast.

7) I love radishes.

That's it... Weird enough, Bev?

Shameless mommy brag

2008-01-29T16:40:00.000-08:00

Sophie got tested for reading at school. She's in first grade and tested in the 91st percentile, or at a 2nd grade 5th month level. This means she's about two years ahead since she should still be in Kindergarten. She brought home all As and one A+ on her latest report. I'm glad I did not keep her in K last year as she would be bored to tears.

Meanwhile, Little Miss M. is working on potty training. We're trying to sit her on the tiny potty in the evening and we've had some successes. Shame that I did not keep up the whistling training they had done in China!

Irritated with ballet school and loose hamster

2008-01-26T07:28:00.001-08:00

I tried to sign up Sophie last trimester and the Thursday class in our neighborhood go canceled. Because Sophie was in soccer, I could not move her to Saturday morning (the only other class that would have worked for working parents). Now I tried again this month, the Th. class gets canceled - again - so I move to Saturday morning (soccer season is over). I order the supplies from the online retailer they recommend - they don't show in time. So, yesterday I make a last minute run to the dance store and I get an e-mail today saying the classes are canceled today due to weather conditions! What weather conditions? Looks fine outside to me. An e-mail a couple of hours before the class is due to start. That's pretty lame if you ask me.

Other topic - Teddy the new hamster thought it was a good idea to get out of its cage while we had both cats, and the dog, sleeping in the house. He must have a hamster guardian angel because we did find him alive.