"We witness a miracle every time a child enters into life. But those who make their journey home across time & miles, growing within the hearts of those who wait to love them, are carried on the wings of destiny and placed among us by God's very own hands."--- Kristi Larson

Friday, July 29, 2011

Always











Last year at this time we began what seemed like an endless journey.Four planes , one train and countless vehicles and taxi's that spanned a 48 hour period.








Our destination , China.








Little did we know the treasure that waited for us there .








Fast forward to today ,Pei's transition into our family was "seamless".




Not really but as with all "labor pains" they fade and are replaced by sweet smiles and kisses.









I am a stay at home mom so this has helped with our bonding and attachment. We are together everyday,all day ... except one. Ava has a private speech appointment one day of each week.




This day can go from good to bad in a matter of seconds. That beautiful smile is replaced by tears and complete fear brought on by my departure.








I have tried many different scenarios to try to make this easier for her.















The one thing that I do know is that consistency is key .








Consistency brings about predictability and that predictability brings about security.








So each time before I leave I gently take her chin, lift it up for her to look at me and say these words over and over :
















"Mama always comes back. Always."








I have said these words even when I thought it was possible that this little girl of mine did not understand or completely believe me.








Our speech teacher was gone for the past couple of weeks. So Pei had a much needed reprieve from any stress filled departures.But this week it was back to business and the dreaded day of the week was upon us yet again.








That evening we gathered around the dinner table for our nightly dinner and family discussion. My husband always asks the kids what they did on that day.




When it came Pei's turn she spoke about Ava's speech appointment @ Ms. K's . She said how it makes her sad when we leave.








But she decided to wrap up her story with something pretty profound for a mere three year old.













"Daddy, Mama always comes back to me . Always."











And this mama always will sweet girl.


















Thursday, July 21, 2011

So long terrible two's and three's!

Despite all my efforts they went ahead and did it anyway ... the girls are now three and four! So, we are moving on to the terrific three's and the fabulous fours!
Always trying to be the optimist here :)

Seriously, where does the time go ?

The girls birthdays are on the 19th and the 20th but we felt rather than combine the celebration they needed to have a special day all to themselves.

Pei's day started with a picnic in the park followed by lots of swimming!

















The girls are truly "girlie" girls but love any messes they can create with water :)

So, when I saw these dolls that you give a bottle full of water to (and you know the outcome) I knew that this was a must have item :)








Pei has been home 1 year in just a couple of weeks! She has truly become the most precious, giggling, snuggle bug ever!
BTW, Pei's favorite meal is cake and ice cream!

She thinks these two items are in a food group of their very own.








Make a wish my sweet beautiful girl!







She was so excited about her new bike!





Pei's love language is most definitely receiving gifts :)









Next is Ava's special day ... what a drama queen !




Make a wish birthday girl!



The "must have" barbie skates that might land me in the chiropractors office!





Yes, all birthday girls received the same presents! Everything with these two need to be matching but I will never be counting m&m's or Cheetos's to make sure they are equal ...Never!!!!
(I know never say never!)




Home three years in September, Ava has just blossomed over this past year. She has truly gone from a toddler to a beautiful little girl!








Happy birthday to my beautiful babies !

I am so blessed to be called your momma!

Monday, July 11, 2011

Look out Sports Illustrated!

Well the summer heat is definitely here and these two have a new uniform ... swimsuits!

I do believe that Pei (aka Ava's baby sister) is a bit taller than her older sis!


But despite any differences they might have they both share another obsession ... Cats !



So, when you are out shopping and Hello Kitty meets swimwear this momma can just do one thing....


just get out the checkbook!


Happy Monday to you all!