The Pirate and The Mermaid

Visit with Santa

2010-12-21T15:24:00.003-05:00

To all our family and friends...Happy Holidays from The Pirate and The Mermaid.

See you next year!!!!!

Long time...No blog about the Mermaid.

2010-10-24T12:15:00.003-04:00

We have been so busy with things. I just haven't had time to post. The Mermaid had her 3rd surgery in March on her hand. (once in China, two times here) It went very well. She is a trooper! The doctor says we will look at it when she is a teenager...time for healing and growing. This is the first time in her life that she has had full access to all her fingers and she is learning to use that hand now that she has complete motion in it. She finished Head Start and over the summer attended VPK to get ready for Kindergarten. She has lost her ESOL status...because her English is "too good". However, she has gaps in her language. So, we are concentrating on filling those gaps this upcoming school year. Kindergarten started in August. She is academically doing very well. Her behavior...well? Talks too much, can't keep her hands to herself, etc. We're working on it!

It is amazing how far she has come in 2 years. She loves her Na Na and Gra Gra so much. She loves to play on her "play phone" and has conversations with them. Thinks her Pop Pop is very funny. She is very attached her to her Aunt Staci, Uncle Cris and Uncle William. She is constantly asking questions about when they were little or when they were in school...she is very curious about ALL of them.

She LOVES tacos, noodles, popsicles, fruit and veggies. Eats like there is no tomorrow. She has gained 15 pounds and grew 6 inches since her adoption. She is all legs... she will be tall as an adult. And skinny, too! She is very silly and has no common sense. She calls herself the "little Chinese girl" and says sometimes she just can't stop talking! We just shake our heads and shrug..... The best part is that she makes us laugh!

Hopefully, I will be better about posting again. Because, life would not be the same without the Little Chinese Girl....

WOW!

2010-06-22T22:49:00.003-04:00

It's been since March that I posted. WOW! It's been along time. I guess I am going to have to update everyone will ALL the things we have been doing.

Stay tuned....I'm making the list!

Green Eggs and Ham and OTHER stuff....

2010-03-02T20:08:00.004-05:00

Thing 1 and Thing 2...Pirate and Mermaid style!

The before...

...and the after! YUM!!!!

Today was Read Across America Day. Since we are a teaching family, it is an important day to emphasize with The Pirate and The Mermaid. We dressed for the occasion by wearing our Thing 1 and 2 shirts (thanks Aunt Kerri!) and our Cat and The Hat "hats". Both kids had green eggs and ham for breakfast...YUCK!!! How I LOVE eggs! Several readers came to read to their classes including Uncle Bryon!

My class had 4 readers and we went on a field trip to a Kindergarten class to bake up some Cat and The Hat pizza. (thanks Kerri!) The kids loved it and it smelled soooo YUMMY and tasted soooo GOOD!

It was a fun day and I am very tired......zzzzzzzz

Opening Day

2010-02-27T18:16:00.006-05:00

Playing right field

The Pirate and the Mermaid

What?

2010 CCNL Rookie Braves

Today was opening day at the field. It was cold and then it rained! The Pirate was introduced and took the Little League pledge. We then went and bought the Pirate this really "hard" piece of equipment...he is a little embarrassed! But you got to protect them....

They had a mini game at 11 and scored more runs than the other team. YEAH! Aunt Staci even stopped by to visit.

Thank for selling ALL those candy bars Aunt Staci!

Busy week...

2010-02-20T15:46:00.003-05:00

It has been a very busy week. We had training , went to Disney World and school. The pirate had practice this morning. It turned into a practice game. He was second up and wacked the ball to the second baseman and just STOOD THERE! I think he was in shock!!! He got thrown out...but Mommy was proud anyway. If it had been a real game...it was 4-2 Braves in the end. Not too shabby...

Saturday Practice

2010-02-06T17:45:00.004-05:00

In the batting cage for the first time
nervous....
goofing around with coach...

waiting for the ball.

just looking cute....

no words!

I got it! I got it!

Braves Practice

2010-02-06T17:32:00.002-05:00

Monday night practice..hitting
warming up...

and playing catch!

Look who has moved in????

2010-02-06T17:23:00.003-05:00

We couldn't believe it this morning....there it sits. We don't know if it is a boy or girl. We don't kow if it will stay awhile...we have had alot of rain lately. It might just be hangin' out...maybe we could charge rent?

Let the games BEGIN!!!!!

2010-01-30T22:58:00.002-05:00

I forgot my camera...so, I used my phone. I had to get pics on the first day!!!!! That's him in baseball ready position...

Throwing to first base.

Trying.... and then, catching a fly ball!!!!

The pirate has moved up to the Rookie league (pitching machine). He is playing on the Braves this year and he had his first practice today. Unfortunately, he was not at his best. He puked this morning before going!!!! However, he was a trooper and made it all the way thru the practice. I think his coach was impressed!

The Pirate

2010-01-29T22:55:00.002-05:00

The "at home" version of Puppy Pals. The Pirate sure does like to read!!! Cosmo is not always a good listener.... but he tries!!!!

The Pirate was the student of the week. I took this picture during his student lead conference at school.

The Mermaid

2010-01-29T22:49:00.001-05:00

Sorting by color at her student lead conference. She is in Pre K...Love It!!!!!

The birthday girl. Guess how old I am????

Pretty nails thanks to Uncle Cris!

LID...3 years ago...WOW!

2010-01-25T22:49:00.002-05:00

We were officially logged into China today in 2007. It was three years ago and would you believe, we would still be waiting! So many babies and children waiting for forever families...

Guess who turned 5??????

2010-01-15T23:24:00.003-05:00

The Mermaid turned 5 today. She celebrated by taking cupcakes to school to share with friends and she wanted to go to her favorite restaurant...Chick-fil-a!!!! So here she is, all 5 years old and eating her nuggets... or is that a fry????

It Does Get COLD in Florida...SEE!

2010-01-11T21:31:00.003-05:00

LOOK AT THE ICE!!!! It is 6:30 am on Monday...ICE!!!!

Ice on my car.

Somebody thinks he is funny...hope it STICKS!!!!!

The back of his car did not open quickly and he whacked himself in the head! Ha Ha...

He has a good heart!

2009-12-30T23:36:00.002-05:00

It was his idea...and my money!!! LOL

More Holiday Photos

2009-12-30T19:24:00.003-05:00

Christmas morning shananigans....with Dad.
YesSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!

Sprinkling of the reindeer food before bedtime.....

The Mermaid and Uncle Cris. What did you get me????

Christmas Eve with the family

Happy First Birthday to cousin Samantha!

Happy Festivus!

Decorating the tree.

Pictures from the Holidays

2009-12-29T17:18:00.003-05:00

The Pirate and my future daughter-in-law!

Aunt Staci and The Mermaid making Christmas crafts at school.

Brother and Sister or Thing 1 and Thing 2????

Love!

2009-12-25T10:50:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas from The Pirate and The Mermaid!!!

Visit with Santa

2009-12-11T10:16:00.002-05:00

Talking to Santa. I want....

I swear...I HAVE been good!

The group shot.

The Mermaid and The Pirate.

Hammimg it up!

Peace on earth????

Best buddies!

Tonight was our annual visit to see Santa with the Superstar and his sister, the Princess. We were very excited that the Princess was happy to see Santa this year!!! Each child got to talk to Santa and they all posed with him. The kids were so thrilled!!!!

Trying to feel like Christmas

2009-12-06T10:06:00.002-05:00

It's warm...83 degrees. It does not feel like December..hence, it's hard to feel like it is Christmas. We made reindeer sugar cookies and put the tree up. It is in the front room this year due to the new puppy, Cosmo. Daddy says it is like Christmas in jail with the baby gates up. We don't want Cosmo to eat the the tree!

Thankful so many things this year....

2009-11-26T19:42:00.004-05:00

Assistant Cooks...they were in charge of the green beans.
Yummy turkey and...

Homemade Apple Pie from the microwave...yes microwave!

Happy Thanksgiving to our family and friends!!!!

Not good....

2009-11-25T15:20:00.006-05:00

Whacked at Publix...oops! Did I just mention the stores name???
That's where the stove and cabinets should be...

Bad wall and floor....

Ruined cabinets....

Black MOLD!

More MOLD!

Really yucky black MOLD on the A/C...

Things have been pretty rotten lately for our family. The Pirate got in trouble at school, did not get his soccer trophy (it was forgotten!) and had some issues with a friend. Then, The Mermaid got WHACKED in the head at a grocery store (a cashiers till to be exact!) and left this bruise on her head immediately....and the store blamed her!!!! I am so mad I could spit!!!!

With all of that, our A/C has been leaking into our house and garage and we have quite a bit of water/mildew/mold damage.

The good news is... The Pirate got his trophy, The Mermaid did not have a concussion and we have a new A/C and will also get new cabinets, drywall and new a floor in the kitchen. Thank goodness I can still cook the turkey!

New do!

2009-11-15T18:04:00.003-05:00

After last summers invasion.....I just let The Pirate's hair grow. We have had it trimmed several times...it got pretty long. So, The Pirate has gotten a little fed up with people thinking he was not a B O Y...he decided to get it cut. Looks great! New kid!

Happy Veteran's Day!

2009-11-11T17:55:00.000-05:00

Ready for our school celebration!The Pirate and Superstar outside Walmart...waiting.....Do we look handsome or what?????

Being goofy...

Singing his heart out....

The cutest audience you will EVER see!!!!!

Soccer Star in the Making????

2009-11-07T20:38:00.004-05:00

Save!

Kick that ball....

Goalie

Gatorade break...

Run Pirate Run!

The Pirate had a rough day. He played goalie and got kicked in the neck. Then at halftime, he comes off the field and says he wants to "punch a kid in the face!" No joke! He really said that...Daddy pulled him aside and gave him a pep talk. Second half he played Forward. He then proceeded to get knocked down, shoved and bloodied because this other kid kicked him in the leg...so, he turns around and gives the kid a dose of his own medicine!!!!! Daddy was very proud....

Treasure!!!!

2009-11-07T20:32:00.002-05:00

Uncle Cris went to The Keys for vacation and brought back a gift for The Pirate. TREASURE!!!! It took him so long to find it...everyday he worked on it. It made a BIG mess...but he had a blast! Look what he found....

Trick or Treat!

2009-10-31T15:17:00.000-04:00

We had the best time! We stoppped and picked up pizza and Aunt Staci, went to the Princess and Superstar's house and collected candy...and lot's of it!

It was funny...it was so hot and muggy that one house gave out juice pouches!!!!

Everyone looked cute and we were ALL very tired when we were done. Great times with great friends!

Monster Mash!

2009-10-31T12:42:00.002-04:00

Enter Cosmo....

2009-10-30T12:15:00.006-04:00

Cosmo

Quiet Cosmo....

My close up!

Crazy Cosmo!

Well....

We thought we would wait awhile since the passing of Twilighter. However, an opportunity to adopt another greyhound presented itself to us. Sometimes, you just see the signs, or it is fate...whatever it is....we have Cosmo now.

Cosmo was born in Alabama the day before The Pirates birthday. (we all have birthday's that start with a "J" including Cosmo) A kennel worker at the track was not supervising the dogs properly and a female ended up pregnant. They did not know she was pregnant and kept racing her thinking she was "fat". She delivered 10 pups and only 5 survived. They were not "wanted" because they did not know who the father was...so no racing for them. He is the biggest of the 5 brothers. He was named "Scarface" at he track and then renamed "Austin" when he was delivered to the greyhound rescue here in town.

We went to the pet store to buy a light for The Pirate's betta fish named "Sushi" and ran into the adoption group. Cosmo was very friendly, licked the kids and seemed very happy. We just had to take him home! He is very FAST and HYPER...but is typical puppy.

He is very cute and everyone wants to see a greyhound pup...he is an oddity. It has taken some of the attention off the Mermaid! It hasn't phased her a bit!

Wish us luck!

Happy Fall!

2009-10-30T12:10:00.003-04:00

What Fall? It is 90 plus degrees here...it really stinks! We took the kids to their favorite place for dinner....Chik-fil-A. They can eat and play. I promised the kids I would take their pic with the scarecrows. The Mermaid was excited to be by the one that had "pony-tails" and then decided to stike a pose!!!! Check her out....

Halloween 2009

2009-10-28T11:58:00.000-04:00

Daphne and Shaggy

Scooby and the gang!

The kids get dressed up for Halloween and go to school for a storybook parade. The rule is that your costume must come from a book. The parents can come and watch the parade in the cafeteria. WOW!! There were a lot of parents there!

The Pirate was Shaggy, The Mermaid was Daphne and The Superstar was Scooby-Doo!!!!! They looked so cute together. Shaggy and Daphne complained their wigs itched and Scooby sweated so much that well....you can fill in the blanks! It does not help that we are breaking record highs here...it was 91 degrees on Wednesday.

Let's hope it is not that HOT on Halloween night. Happy Trick or Treating to our friends!!!!

Soccer Saturday

2009-10-24T19:51:00.004-04:00

The Pirate had pictures and a soccer game today. He played goalie and had 9 saves!!!!! He relly likes playing goalie and has become good at it. The coach then moved him to the forward position because he is aggressive about going after the ball. AGGRESSIVE???? Does he know my kid? Or... is the Pirate changing right in front of my eyes????

hmmm....

Fall Weather...FINALLY!!!!

2009-10-19T19:55:00.003-04:00

It has been 90 plus degrees here. It is WAAAAYYYY to hot for October!!!! Finally on Saturday, the weather turned. It is beautiful....68 degrees was the high. We spent some time outside on Sunday. Took some random shots of the kids.

Flu Shots ROCK!

2009-10-18T15:16:00.004-04:00

...especially when we only have to get the Flu Mist! The health dept here had a free Clinic "Say BOO to the FLU!" and the kids ONLY had to get it up the nose. Were they relieved...no needles!

Got Cream Cheese?

2009-10-17T11:40:00.003-04:00

Cream Cheese Smile #1
Cream Cheese Smile #2

After soccer, we stopped for a bagel. The kids love bagels. Can you tell?

We miss you big guy....

2009-10-13T11:36:00.000-04:00

The house feels empty without you here. Daddy misses you the most....we all miss you still. We love you.

Twilighter

2009-10-06T10:30:00.003-04:00

August 5, 1996- October 6, 2009

Today, we lost our Twilighter to a stroke. It was time for him to go. 13 years, 2 months and a day years old. He spent 3 years racing around the track and then, spent 10 years with us as a family. Thank you for being the best dog EVER and taking care of the Pirate and Mermaid. We miss you already....

Love,
Mommy, Daddy, the Pirate and the Mermaid

Frog Hunter

2009-10-05T23:29:00.000-04:00

The Pirate and his Dad found THIS HUGE FROG on the pool equipment and decided to catch it. They fed it some bugs and it left us a BIG surprise this morning!

It is as big as my fist! YUCKY!!!!!!!

Mommy's little Helper

2009-10-05T13:27:00.000-04:00

We came home from the store and she asked to help!

Moon Festival 2009

2009-10-03T13:22:00.000-04:00

Making paper Lanterns

Picture of Na Na by the Mermaid

The Pirate and The Mermaid showing off their Lanterns

Proud kids!

Moonpies instead of Mooncakes...bought at 7-11. So American!

The FULL moon!

A Good Heart

2009-09-29T22:11:00.002-04:00

My Pirate has such a good heart. He had soccer practice tonight. While playing, a little girl on his team got tangled in the net of the goal. While all the other kids ran to the other end of the field, my little guy stayed and helped her untangle her cleet. What a guy!!!!!

Playing Hard

2009-09-26T10:40:00.002-04:00

The Pirate had his first Soccer game today. He is on the Blue Lightening team. He has two great coaches and he is learning lots! They played the cobras today to a tie. The Pirate played goalie and fell on the ball and stopped the ball from going in the goal. He did great!!!!

Well...it is Official!

2009-09-25T21:02:00.003-04:00

Our adoption process is over. We had our last visit with our social worker Jennifer today. The Mermaid was very talkative. She sang 5 little monkeys, told Jennifer she loves the Pirate and school, says she loves to eat Chinese noodles and does not like turkey!

Jennifer has to type a report and we need to submit some family photos and a medical report. It will all be put together and sent to Beijing. That's it! All done....WOW!

Apple Art

2009-09-25T18:25:00.002-04:00

The kid takes after his Mom! He was bored today and the apple was going bad...he used a straw, a chopstick and a plastic knife to create his "frankenstein-like" creation. He stuck the cracker in to create some interest.....

Our PreK Girl

2009-08-25T20:55:00.001-04:00

Here is our PreK girl! She is transitioning to the big kids class. She has made leaps and bounds this year. She has even grown 4 inches...she is as tall as the Kindergarteners at school!!!!!

My Second Grader

2009-08-24T20:47:00.000-04:00

He is getting so big. We are very proud of The Pirate!

The Last Days of Summer

2009-08-23T20:30:00.000-04:00

The end of summer...they are NOT going to be happy!

I am at a loss for words....

You lookin' at me?

We did want to name her Paris...is that Nicole with her????

Best buds...Twilighter turned 13 years old.

I am calling my BFF!

I'm a Barbie girl...in a Barbie world....

Too much wii...he is all Wii ed out!

Just some pictures from the last few days of our summer vacation. It sure did seem to fly by. But, it was a good summer!

Happy 7th Birthday Pirate!

2009-07-18T22:01:00.001-04:00

The Pirate all 9 pound and 6 ounces. BIG BOY!
I got a Nintendo DS...just what I wanted!

Daddy and The Pirate setting up his Nintendo.

PARTY!!! Pizza and Jellyfish Juice (Spongebob theme)

YUMMY!!!!

Swimming!

Alligator wrestling.

Spongebob Cake

The Pirate had a party with his friends on his BIRTHDAY! He was so excited. They had pizza, cake, ice cream and did a lot of swimming. He had a great time and got great presents from his friends.

On a side note, I can not believe how much he has grown. He amazes me everyday...good and bad. I am very proud of all he has accomplished. The best part of the day for me was hearing him read all his birthday cards on his own!

The AFTER Party

2009-07-18T21:30:00.001-04:00

Chillin' on the gator.

Brother and sister. The Superstar is off to the side squirting them!

The Superstar...

The Mermaid...

and the Pirate.

Everyone left and The Superstar stayed for the night. We ate MORE pizza and cake. We swam in the pool till dark. They LOVED that!!!! And, of all things, they had a Spongebob marathon on all weekend...we got our fill of Spongebob. The Pirate and The Superstar camped out on the living room floor. They had a fun time!

BUBBLES!!!!

2009-07-12T14:30:00.001-04:00

The Mermaid's favorite thing to do. Georgia, Florida...it doesn't matter where. She would blow bubbles in her sleep if she could!

I have been a bad, bad girl!

2009-07-09T22:42:00.000-04:00

I have not posted in a while. We are on vacation and well...we've been having FUN!!!! So check below and I will get you all caught up!

Off To Georgia!!!

2009-07-08T13:38:00.002-04:00

You can't go to Georgia without eating at Chick-fil-A!!!!

This Chick-fil-A is an original store...a Dwarf House. It has a "sit down" restaurant along with the typical fast food pick up. The front door actually works!!!

Brain FREEZE and ORANGE lips from eating TOO many popsicles with Pop Pop...

even The Mermaid had orange lips!

The Mermaid, Na Na and The Pirate.

I wanna touch a sting ray! and a ...and a ....

Arrgghhh ...says The Mermaid!

Looking at the exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium.

I drove to Georgia by myself with the kids in tow. This is the first time without Daddy. We made some extra stops and had lunch. It took 11 hours. We took our time! Na Na and Pop Pop were so happy to see us. The Mermaid met Puddles for the first time and we warned her....she steals food! We went shopping, to the movies, to dinner, the playground and The Pirate made a new friend and they played in the sprinkler. We really had a good time. Uncle Cris came to surprise Na Na on Saturday and we all went to the Georgia Aquarium on Sunday. Very cool place. But, very crowed. The Mermaid really missed her Daddy (after the first night!) and was in tears. We kept her busy!!!

Uncle Cris stayed the rest of the week and was Na Na's handyman and they went to see the Braves play the Mets at Turner field.

The weather was nice but got better after we left...it was in the 60's at night....I think it even hit the 50's. Man...why does it have to be so hot here!

On a side note...we all wore Na Na OUT!!!!

Balloons and Bugs

2009-07-07T23:33:00.000-04:00

Daddy saw this cool Hot Air Balloon blowing by and while they were out there...they found some other things The Pirate is fascinated with!

YIKES! More snakes!

2009-07-06T22:50:00.000-04:00

This one was dodging a bird and wrapped itself around the palm tree next to the pool deck to hide!

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-05T22:55:00.000-04:00

Hot Dogs + Rice Crispy Treats + Swimming + Fireworks + Friends = FUN!!!!!

Have you heard of the movie....

2009-07-02T22:44:00.000-04:00

Snakes on a Plane? Well, we have snakes in the POOL! Twice in a month. I think it was the same one too! Daddy and The Pirate fished it out. Or...is it snaked it out????

Everything looks good!!!

2009-07-01T21:54:00.003-04:00

All we can say is WOW!

The Mermaid's doctor does amazing work....The Mermaid had her cast removed today. We have not seen her hand in 2 weeks. Her fingers are swollen, discolored and full of tiny stitches. But, they are beautiful!

She is wrapped up again in gauze and fashionable lime green tape for the next 2 weeks.

All is good...

Random Things...

2009-06-30T21:56:00.005-04:00

Yeah! I get this thing off tomorrow...it's startin' to stink! It's been two weeks...

What cha doing? Video games.....I'm concentrating!

The Pirate reading Mommy's first grade teacher's edition...you did that already, son!

Goofing around on Forever Family Day..bunny ears!

Forever Family Day 2009...could you two at least smile?????

Brother and Sister...2008

2009-06-26T23:47:00.004-04:00

Wow! You are real....

I am not sure who you are?
Kisses for my sister!

It was one year ago that we made it home from China. It was midnight here and we were all sooo tired. The look on The Mermaid's face is "who are you?" and "I am tired...leave me alone!". The Pirate was beaming...he couldn't believe she was real. I look back at these pictures and realize how overwhelmed she must of been...because I was, too!

Brother and Sister...2009

2009-06-26T11:07:00.001-04:00

Amazing! How different they look today. Brother and Sister...finally!

Dear Mermaid,

2009-06-19T00:01:00.004-04:00

June 2008

June 2009

June 19, 2008...the day your life changed and so did ours. The day we laid our eyes on you, held you and cried with you for the first time. Wow! Daddy and I were so scared and I am sure you were too! I think back on that day and realize that this was meant to be...you were meant to be part of our family. Your Forever Family. We love having you as a daughter, sister, granddaughter and niece. You have made our family complete and we are so happy that you have come to love us as much as we love you!

You have changed many things in your life this year. Your address, your country, your name, your HAIR, your language , your own room, school, a brother, a dog and all the food( NOT Chinese!) you love WAY to much to eat! You have gained 10 pounds and have grown almost 4 inches! You are growing up so fast. Which makes me think....

about your BirthMom and how much she must miss you. At times this year, I have been very sad. Sad because, I missed out on the first 3 1/2 years of your life. But then I think, how blessed I am to be able to share the rest of my life and yours for as long as I am here on earth. I know your BirthMom loved you..she would be so proud of you.

You make me laugh and you're such a stinker! You are beautiful and stubborn. I would not change a single thing about you..I love you just the way you are!

I am so very proud of everything you have become.

Thank you...

for letting ME be your Mommy.

XOXO

She is doing GREAT!

2009-06-17T20:00:00.001-04:00

I look like a boxer...punch, punch!

Big brother taking care of his little sister!

You would never know she had surgery yesterday. Happy, eating, singing.....as long as I keep her medicated!

Outtakes from Yesterday

2009-06-17T19:58:00.003-04:00

"But I don't like these jammies Aunt Staci!"

I got tatooed by the Doctor!

Watching my favorite...SPONGEBOB!

I am soooooo bored!

I'm a happy little girl.. LOOPY MEDS!

Our Brave Girl

2009-06-16T22:11:00.003-04:00

Hamming it up with Daddy....

Happy, loopy and medicated Mermaid

Finally home...sleep baby, sleep!

The Mermaid had her hand surgery today. We went to the hospital at noon. They did not take her back for the procedure till 3 pm. It took 3 hours, 2 doctors and 10, 000 plus stitches to make her fingers she can use. She was very good before the surgery ...despite not having food and drink. Aunt Staci sat in the back of the car on the way home....she was pretty upset and slugged her Aunt. Poor Aunt Staci....The Mermaid is home and in bed sleeping. She will be in a cast for 2 weeks...no swimming, no digging in the dirt ...UGGHHH!!!! This is gonna be fun!

SUMMER TIME!!!!!!!!

2009-06-12T20:06:00.004-04:00

Check out the PONYTAIL!!!!

Am I pretty????

You should have seen his shirt.....

ahhh.....

It's summer time! The kids have no school...and neither does Mommy! Daddy has some trainings...but not much.

We decided to eat dinner and then sneak out to the local DQ. YUMMY!!!!! We all had an ice cream cone. This is the first one for The Mermaid. She had hers dipped in Cherry...like Daddy. The Pirate went with sprinkles.

Onions!

2009-06-05T21:32:00.003-04:00

I just had to share....

When we got back from China, we needed to pay some bills. Who doesn't these days??? Anyhow, we had some things around the house we really did not use. So, Daddy decided to sell some things on ebay. Well, he sold a man a video game that apparently did not work and Daddy decided to refund the man his money. Well, this man was so impressed with Daddy's honesty and business practices.... he promised us ONIONS from his farm in Vidalia, Georgia.

Look what was sitting on our front step when we got home. ...9 huge onions!!!!

Thanks John!!!!

First Grade Awards

2009-06-04T21:09:00.003-04:00

The Pirate and his teacher, Mrs. Kaz

The Superstar and The Pirate

Friends...

Friends...

and MORE friends!

We are very proud of The Pirate. He has made so much progress this year in first grade. The most important thing is HE IS READING!!!!!

He was given awards in AR Reading, Art, and Chorus.

Way to go Pirate!

Change in Assignment

2009-06-02T20:54:00.002-04:00

Budget Cuts...Budget Cuts...Budget Cuts.....

I am going from Art Teacher to First Grade Teacher. This should be fun!!!!

I'll keep you updated....

Update on Bite...

2009-05-31T21:05:00.002-04:00

The swelling has come down completely. You can really see where the bite is (the swelling was so bad...you could not see it!). I think we are on the mend...YEAH!!!

Spider Bite!!!!

2009-05-29T22:25:00.005-04:00

The Mermaid woke up like this today. It got worse as the day progressed. The doctor looked her over and determined it was a bite. So, we are on Benadryl and an antibiotic just in case. She iced it tonight. We will keep watching it.

Of course, The Pirate informed us his eye hurts too!!!!! Nothing Mommy's kisses can't fix. The Mermaid is another story. ...

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-25T18:47:00.002-04:00

Thank you to all those who have and do serve our country. I am very proud I have family members who chose to serve their country.

I remember my grandfather and my TuTu who are buried together in Arlington. My grandfather served in the Navy. It is my hope that we can take The Pirate and The Mermaid to visit with them soon... so, they may understand the importance of today and family.

19-18

2009-05-24T00:07:00.002-04:00

The season is over....

The Mets played with 6 kids today. The other team had 8. We are very proud of them!!!!!The Pirate got hit in the chin with the ball during the 2nd inning playing at the pitchers mound... Lost a little of his Mo-Jo after that. He hit very well and was a good sportsman to the end. I think this was the best game they played all season.

Congrats to the Phillies....There is always next year....

Top Tooth

2009-05-19T20:38:00.004-04:00

The Pirate lost his first top tooth this morning getting into the car for school. Tooth fairy is going BROKE!

Slide FUN!

2009-05-18T18:55:00.001-04:00

I think you can see his tonsils!!!!!!!
Thanks Christi for the pictures!!!

Busy Weekend

2009-05-17T19:58:00.004-04:00

Looking for the pot of gold or as the Pirate said, "the Hallmark store!" Uggh...WEBKINZ!

The Pirate swimming...

The Pirate sliding...

The Pirate squirting his sister and The Mermaid squirting ME!!!!!

I love snow cones!

The Pirate eating cookie cake...YUMMY!!!!

We had such a busy weekend! It started with a beautiful rainbow...a double one! It was hard to get the whole thing in one picture. But trust me...you could see the whole thing.

The Pirate had his last game on Friday night. They played really well. They finished the season 8 wins and 5 loses. So, things look good for the tournament. NOT SO FAST..... Saturday we get to the field at 11 am..HOT HOT HOT!!!!! Kids overheated, puking on the field. One kid goes home. Not so good. Plus, one player quit after the Friday game, two players moved to New York and one had a birthday party planned ahead of time. Our kids played with 5 players and one is in a cast!!!!! Usually the Pirate hits 3 times in a game...well, he hit 6 times. I must say, he is hitting very well. Plus, he would pinch run for the player in the cast. Those 4 kids in the infield played their BUTTS OFF!!!! At one time, The pirate played 3 rd base and shortstop at the same time!!!! Of course, they lost...21-20. They have one more game on Wednesday. If they lose, they are officially done. If they win, they keep playing. So, GO METS!!!!!!

Aunt Staci came over to "play" as The Mermaid called it while Mommy and Daddy went to cousin Samantha's wedding. It was very nice. It was good to see Daddy's family... as it has been a while. Congratulations Samantha and Marc!

Today, we had Caitlin and Zach's 9 1/2 birthday party. It was a pool party. The kids had a lot of fun with the pool, the water slide, snow cone machine, food, beach balls...you name it! The Mermaid had her first snow cone. She loved it and got mad at Daddy because he finished hers off. (she went to swim!) The Pirate is such a fish... He has become a very good swimmer. Thanks for inviting us Caitlin and Zach...Happy Birthday!

Eat Mor Chikin!

2009-05-14T17:57:00.004-04:00

YUMMY YUMMY YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Chick-fil-A finally opened up the street. It is the first one in our town. It was not too busy...we went just before the dinner rush. While we were eating, the cows were outside and it was thundering and lightening. The kids were afraid they would get struck by a bolt. They were happy when they came in and the cows came in to play with the kids. It was really raining hard and The Mermaid said to me "the sky is farting"... She says some funny things!

Field Day Rocks!

2009-05-08T22:28:00.003-04:00

Daddy and The Pirate

Action shot on the obstacle course...he is OK!

Gettin' wet for the team

Run...run...run!

Working as a team.

Dunking a TEACHER! WHAT???? He did hit the target....

The sack race sure looks hard...

The Superstar and class playing Duck Duck SPLASH!

Tug-o-war...PULL!!!!!!!!!!

YEAH!!!! We win!!!!!!

The Pirate had Field day at school. Daddy took the ENTIRE day off to hang out with The Pirate. He came to visit his classroom, have lunch and have FUN! He was even able to go visit The Mermaid in her class.

The kids had a great time with all the activities. Like, duck duck SPLASH!, sack races, obstacle course, dunk tank and tug-o-war. The Pirate's class came in 2nd place in the tug-o-war. YEAH!!!! They sure are strong! It was very hot (bad). However, The Pirate said the best part of the day was hanging out with his Dad. So cute....

We are a Multi-Cultural Family

2009-05-05T20:55:00.003-04:00

Happy Cinco de Mayo friends! The Pirate made maraca's and a hat at school today. He is a very "festive" kid.....

May Day

2009-05-01T18:29:00.003-04:00

May Day 2008 we received and signed the LOA (letter of Acceptance) for The Mermaid's adoption. We were all soooo excited to see that paper!!!!!

WOW! I can't believe it has been a year already.

Game Ball!

2009-04-28T20:06:00.002-04:00

The Pirate played so well tonight...he got the game ball! He fielded the ball several times, got tagged out at third base (bummer!), danced some and had one heck-of-a-hit into the outfield. The Pirate's friend , Parker had batting practice and stopped by to say "hi!". Maybe, Parker should stop by more often!

The tournament starts soon....Go Mets!

#3

2009-04-26T15:55:00.001-04:00

That's right. The Pirate has lost tooth #3. He has been wiggling it for weeks. It finally came out today...he screamed so loud he woke his sister up and probably half the neighborhood!!!!!!!!! He is working on the chipped tooth up on the top...it seems like it will be the next one to go.

The Tooth Fairy is making a stop at our house tonight...

Long and Exciting Week....

2009-04-23T20:10:00.003-04:00

The Pirate has had his SAT 10 Testing this week...3 days worth of it! He has been going to bed early and eating a healthy breakfast. He was actually excited about taking this test. I wish I could get him to be THAT WAY about his homework.

We have had baseball. Aunt Staci and Uncle Cris came to watch. He does more "dancing" around than anything. Short attention span...

The Mermaid keeps losing her earrings. I went and bought some safety backs. They seem to be working.

For those of you who know, we have a burrowing owl living in our front yard...we named her Bubo. The owls here live in the ground. We have lots of nests around the city and people keep track of the owls. Our owl has not found a mate. So, no babies this year. The kids were bummed...
HOWEVER, we were out playing in the back yard with the kids swinging on the swings and kicking the ball around and low and behold...there was a bunny. Digging a hole in our yard!!!! Ruining the grass next to the pool cage (it will grow back!) Daddy came in and did some searching on the internet. She is an eastern cottontail and she is nesting!!!!!! So, we will have babies...or kittens, as they call them in 3 weeks or so.

We took some picks of "Miss Hoppity".

2009-04-23T08:25:00.001-04:00

Looking at this bunny digging in our yard....

Close up shots...

She can fit her whole head in the hole....

She is cute!

2009-04-23T07:35:00.000-04:00

This is what we will have in our yard in a few weeks!!!!!!

The bunny does WHAT?????

2009-04-22T19:46:00.000-04:00

Yeah! It's Easter says The Pirate...What's Easter???? says The Mermaid. She has NO idea....

This is a chocolate Easter bunny, daddy explains. The Easter Bunny left this????? she says....

The Pirate demonstrates to his sister the proper way to eat one....it looks YUMMY!!!!!!

The Pirate is an "ears" guy. The Mermaid thought that was funny....

Next, he went for the head....Mommy said ENOUGH!!!!! Time for breakfast!!!!

I think The Mermaid liked her first Easter. Can you tell I have eaten tooooo much candy????

Stolen Off Disney Photo Pass

2009-04-13T19:09:00.004-04:00

We loved this picture of us all at Animal Kingdom. That is Expedition Everest behind us. It costs $14.95 for a 4X6 inch photo!!!!!!! So, we stole it off the website. Bad, Bad, Bad.....

Visit with Superboy and Wondergirl

2009-04-08T18:37:00.002-04:00

On our way home from Disney World, we stopped to visit Superboy and meet our newest cousin, Wondergirl. She is three months old and very cute! The Pirate, The Mermaid and Superboy had fun spinning around in Uncle Don's chair. We capped off the evening having dinner at Daddy's and Uncle Don's favorite place to eat...Denny's!!!!!!

Day 2- Animal Kingdom

2009-04-07T17:47:00.002-04:00

The Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom...the trunk is carved with pictures of animals. Beautiful!

The Mermaid petting a goat .

Wow! It's a Llama.

The Mermaid and Mommy .

Meeting Jiminy Cricket .

It's Rafiki meeting time!

We're on safari...looking for animals!

Cool tree...forgot the name. But, cool...

Rhinos...Look how close!

Mommy Ostrich sitting on her eggs.

Komodo Dragon...The Pirate loves these!

Fruit Bats...Mommy does NOT like these!

Playing in the bamboo .

"Goofin' around" with Goofy and Pluto...Check out The Pirate!

The Pirate is driving the dino!

We had a lot of fun at Disney's Animal Kingdom. It was a cooler day..so we all wore pants until we went on the Kali River Rapids (Daddy's idea) and TOTALLY got SOAKED!!!! The Mermaid DID NOT like getting wet and cried. The Pirate laughed his butt off at his sister. UGGGHH!!!! Lucky for the kids...I had a change of clothes for them in my bag. Daddy and I took HOURS to dry. We had Chinese food at the Yak and Yetti restaurant (Asia section) for lunch. We got to see lots of animals. It is a really pretty park with lots of shade. We all enjoyed the Nemo Musical..it is a must see if you go!

Day 1- The Magic Kingdom

2009-04-06T00:03:00.002-04:00

We can't wait!

Planning the day with the park map.

Outside of The Pirates of the Carribean

Mickey Ice Cream is....

YUMMY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Strawberry popsicle boy!

I don't want to look at you Mommy...I want to watch the parade!

Can my eyes get any bigger??????

Free Souvenir from disney. I am OK!

We took The Pirate and The Mermaid to the Magic Kingdom. We had a great time. It was in the low 80's and it rained on us several times. It was very funny...we convinced The Pirate to go on Thunder Mountain and we got two rides in one...it was like Splash Mountain because it POURED on us while we were on the ride!!!!! After the ride...The Pirate was in tears and The Mermaid said "that was awesome!". Poor Pirate....The park was very busy and we got to go on...

The Pirates of the Carribean

Thunder Mountain/Splash Mountain

The Jungle Cruise

Peter Pan

It's a Small World

Snow White

The Tea Cups

and...we saw Mickey and Minnie Mouse!

It cooled off and we left at 4 PM and came back at 8 PM after checking into the hotel and dinner. We got to see the light parade (and walked behind the seven dwarfs at the very end of the parade) and went and sat at the base of Cinderella's castle to watch the fireworks. The kids loved it! We stayed till midnight ( it was cold!) and headed back to the hotel.

The Mermaid did pretty good. She had to go potty two times while waiting in line for a ride. UGGHH!!!!!! She has the smallest bladder ever! The Pirate was so excited about watching the parade...he was not watching where he was bouncing/standing and fell down three steps. Big knot on leg...FREE SOUVENIR!!!! We had ice cream and Daddy finally got that Turkey Leg in Frontier Land he has been wanting.

Day two...Animal Kingdom.

Art Show and Spring Concert

2009-04-02T22:48:00.002-04:00

Tonight was all about these two!!!!! What creative kids we have!!!!!

The Pirate sitting and listening to the older chorus sing.

Mommy and the Mermaid being good listeners

Artwork by Mommy's students

The Pirate and the Superstar's pinch pots

Thursday night was the final art show and chorus performance at our school. The school district has eliminated art and music teachers from the elementary schools. We are in a budget crunch and the state does not seem to fund education properly. So, I will be doing something different next year.

I sat and watched the Pirate sing his heart out and dance his tushie off! I sat and laughed and then cried. He gets so much out of music and chorus. It is a travesty to let this happen to our kids. It breaks my heart....

I, being the art teacher...was there to share the experience. I put together a nice art display with 100 plus pieces of artwork for my students and parents. Many hugs, tears and thank you's from parents. I felt truly appreciated!!!!!

Hair issues

2009-04-01T13:37:00.000-04:00

For those I have talked about this, The Mermaid has never liked getting her hair washed. I think she is not used to having it washed since...well, she never had any hair till we adopted her. (see referral picture to the right) It has grown so much in the last 10 months, she has little pigtails now. Well, she would scream and cry like I was torturing her every night at bathtime. I tried everything!!! Well, guess what worked....smiles everytime now!!!!!!

Horse's are stinky!

2009-03-29T13:29:00.000-04:00

Uncle Cris called us last week and told us the Budweiser Clydesdale Horses were in town. They had them on display are a local store. I took the Pirate and the Mermaid up to see them. All the Mermaid would say is "what's that smell???" Gotta laugh.....

Earth Hour

2009-03-28T21:58:00.002-04:00

We tried very hard to participate in Earth Hour this evening. The last Saturday in March is Earth Hour around the world. From 8:30pm to 9:30 pm you are to turn off your lights and non-essential appliances in your home to help conserve energy and help the planet. Well, it was very dark in the house and we were a little bored. So, we watched TV for the hour. Like I said...we tried!

Spring Training with Uncle Cris and the Red Sox

2009-03-28T19:13:00.001-04:00

Here are the pictures from the day at the Ball Park. The first is of The Pirate with Carl Beane, the "Voice" of the Boston Red Sox. Check out the ring....OH! and the ice cream nose!!!!!

Inside the announcers box at City of Palms Park

That's David Ortiz behind The Pirate...he just hit a homerun. I don't think The Pirate was too impressed...

We got the best seats EVER!!!!

I'm sitting on the Red Sox dug out!!!!!!

The Pirate had a great time with Uncle Cris and his friends today at the ball park. The Red Sox played the Twins and won. The Pirate even brought home a foul ball hit by Kevin Youkilis! He was very excited about going...thanks Uncle Cris!!!!!!

Super Model in Training

2009-03-21T20:56:00.007-04:00

This is our entertainment in between innings at the baseball field. The Mermaid is practicing to be a super model. I think she has a lot of work ahead of her!

Work it girl!!!!!!!!

Baseball Ready!

2009-03-21T20:44:00.004-04:00

Check out the feet....

Each time a batter comes to the plate...Coach Howard reminds the kids to be "baseball ready". The Pirate ALWAYS jumps into his position! It is very funny...I caught him in action!

He got to play at the pitchers mound this night.

Discovery Lifts OFF!!!!!

2009-03-15T20:03:00.011-04:00

We're waiting and very excited!!!!!

There it is! Right above an American Flag....

Going higher and higher....

Look at the smoke from the rocket boosters.

It is pretty cool living in Florida when things like the space shuttle Discovery goes into space. We live on the west coast and can still see it. It is very cool when it is a night launch. We drove to the community theatre near our house for a clearer view. Not so many houses. The kids loved it and we were not the only ones to stop on the road and watch!

First Baseball Practice!!!!

2009-03-15T19:28:00.004-04:00

That's the Pirate and Coach Howard.

It was chilly that morning and check out the fog....

Hip Hop T-ball dude!

I know!

2009-03-14T21:14:00.004-04:00

I have not posted in a while. We have had many "things", "events", "happenings" going on. Here is a list....

Only The Pirate had the Flu...
Then got the stomach flu after Mommy had it and then Daddy got it!
Then, he got stung by a wasp two times! At least we know he is NOT allergic!
The Pirate won the Edison Regional Invention Fair for First grade. He won last year while in Kindergarten. Two years in a row!!!
The Pirate has been out 5 days this quarter from school, he has gotten behind in his AR reading. He read and took 7 AR tests this week! My little bookworm!!!!
The Pirate is playing T Ball this year. He is on the Mets. Two games a week.
He also went to the dentist and got a clean bill of health. NO CAVITIES!!!!!

Well....

The Mermaid went to the dentist and has 6 CAVITIES!!!! Thank goodness we have dental insurance....$400 bucks to fill them in!
She ran into the sliding glass door..she is OK!
No, she did not get the Flu OR the Stomach Flu. I know...what's up with that?????
The Mermaid got to change her earrings for the first time and one was slightly infected. It is getting better...
The Mermaid got a hair cut. It is getting long...
The Mermaid likes going to the baseball field and wants to play (she does EVERYTHING the Pirate does!)
When asked what she has for lunch at school...she replies " a crabby patty". WAY... Too much Spongebob!

All is good for now. Everyone is healthy. FCAT testing is over. Daddy is still is tutoring everyday. Mommy is holding down the fort.

I promise to post some pictures.