Dog Therapy

Have I said before how glad I am that we added Reggie to our family (in a dog, calm-assertive way!)??

I knew he would be great for Natan who he loves Stanley but is a little much for a small dog. I cannot count the number of times Natan snuggles, hugs, kisses, or says "I love you" to Reg during the day. And Reggie just eats it up.

It may not be exactly what the doctor ordered, but it sure does a Mama's heart good...

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Speaking of Reggie...he had his rabies shot today and didn't even flinch! Mimi was with me and watched--he was such a good boy!

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Vinny is now asking and answering questions. Meaningful ones. It's scary.

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Mimi and George told me today they were never leaving home, or me. Yay!!! For now, that is great! I can barely stand to think about how much I'll miss them in the fall...I can't imagine them being out of the house for good. Cue tears.

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Took the first step with Henry County Special Ed and now waiting to slug through the

paperwork.

I have to admit...we are feeling a bit overwhelmed right now.

It's one thing to suspect something.

Something different altogether when that something gets confirmed.

Becomes real.

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My hero of the week (Sally--you ought to appreciate this!!). Molly from Cuttin' Up Hair Salon. She basically rocks. I will forever be in her debt and it has nothing to do with how she does my hair!

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The next step...

Went to Natan's final appointment today and received the doctor's assessment and recommendations. Can I just say, if I have not already--she has treated both Natan and me with a great deal of respect and is just downright nice.

Thanks to my friend, Kyron, for the recommendation.

Duane--we tried for Marcus but the year wait was killer!

So...we are not sharing all details, because we are still wrapping our own heads around some of the information. But...what our pediatrician suggested and what we have suspected for some time is in fact true. Natan has severe developmental delays and from mild Autism. He will be starting Special Ed PreK as soon as possible--the remainder of the year, we hope.

Notice how I didn't say "suffers from"...this is not something that is wrong with him.

This is just another part of his story.

We don't have a feeling of doom--Natan is still Natan. Nothing has changed, it has just become medically official.

I am so proud of how he reacted to and interacted with his doctor.

Proud Mama...

Our son has a developmental disability--the new, kinder term for "Mental Retardation."

It doesn't change the fact that he is at the same cognitive level of his younger brother.

It doesn't change the fact that he is lovable, snugly, silly, and has a heart of gold.

It doesn't change the fact that we love him to bits.

It also doesn't make it OK for you to stare at him when he has an outburst.

It doesn't make it OK for you to roll your eyes at his behavior.

It doesn't make it OK for you to lose patience with him because he acts differently.

I watch other moms survive the ins and outs of having a special needs child.

I don't know if I have what it takes, but I know one thing: Natan does.

He has survived Typhus.

He has survived near starvation.

He has survived losing his family and having to adjust to and love a new one.

He is just this little person with a medical label.

And he is FABULOUS!!!!!!!

Where's Marietta and who is she??

Had Natan's second appointment today--his last will be next week where we will receive his assessment...I got to observe him without him knowing and it was amazing to see him one on one with the doctor--she's fantastic!

She told me it is very typical for people to take the "there's nothing wrong--he'll be just fine" approach because they simply can't handle anything being what they perceive as "wrong" with someone. Even a mild delay such as Natan's needs to be assessed and treated somehow, and burying your head in the sand is not considered medically viable!

George pretty much spent the morning asking where Marietta was, and "who is she?" I finally got through to him that it is a place, not a girl--I don't know that he is convinced...

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Received a beautiful book in the mail today from our agency. Now that we are officially waiting and it could be any day (!), they are asking us to hold a fundraiser or to somehow raise funds or items to support the main orphanage in Addis where most of our agency's children come from. Done, done, and done!

The book is beautiful, and I am so excited to be returning to Addis sooner than later!

Can't wait to visit Natan's centre and share pictures with them of Natan as he is now...

Can't wait to show Mimi and SaSa why I love ET so much.

To me it will be the same feeling as going home...some adoptions connect you to a place and its people. Ethiopia is definitely one of those places.

Kind of hoping our referral would come before the Ethiopia Group dinner this weekend--but highly doubtful!

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Sometimes I feel like I am beating my head against a wall. I am trying so hard to teach my kids to love others no matter what...and treat others with respect no matter what...

My Dad always said to heap kindness on those who are not so kind to you to show them how to be kind, and to always rise above their behavior by being the "better" person. I have always tried to do that.

Isn't the whole idea of "Love your neighbor" meant to includeeveryone?? Even those you do not particularly like?

Would it kill people to be kind?

Humanism 101.

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Reggie was on the dinner table tonight (no, we were not in the room at the time, allowing this!!!). There was something seriously lacking in my "shhhhh!!!!!" sounds that had Mum and I in fits--but I maintained Alpha status and he got down.

I still haven't spoken to the dogs--it's been five days.

They are dogs.

They are not people.

This is SO hard!!!!!!

They are So darn cute!!!!!!

Reggie: 0 Minna: 1

Found a dreadfully nasty mess in the kitchen tonight. Had, hours earlier, impressed on other half the importance of keeping the diaper trash fully closed--to keep Reg out of it.

Laying on the kitchen floor was a particularly gross, poopie diaper, shredded.

Cesar's Way says to "offer" him the same opportunity to choose incompatible behavior, and be "calm assertive" in correcting him.

I offered him the garbage pail with the poopie diaper, he went for it, I made my mind controlling sound. He backed off!!! Rewarded with a treat, mainly to get the poop smell off his breath.

He's so sweet, and Stanley is much better now with another dog friend!

Yay!

Love...

Did we need another dog? No.

Did we want another dog? Yes.

Is it ANY of any one's business that we have another dog? I don't think so.

Do I want your advice? No, and I never did.

We know a couple of people who, every time we have adopted, been pregnant, or in this case, brought home a dog, feel compelled to insist to us that we are crazy, and one has even said, "What do you think you are doing?"

OK. You know what's crazy?

Having kids and then putting them in daycare. Be an adult and stay home and raise them.

Spanking is crazy--how can you teach your children kindness and appropriate conflict resolution if you are hitting them? Be creative and find better ways to guide your children--unless you really are too lazy.

Speaking of the new dog...Reggie is fantastic! I am immersing myself in the world of Cesar Millan and it's working!!! For the first time EVER, Stanley sat and waited in place for his bowl of food--ritual.

I have them both off the bed and on the floor--although they are allowed on the couch when invited (as in now, both sitting beside me being ever so cute!!).

We ran together on the road--one on each side of me. Going to try it with the stroller this weekend so this can be a family affair.

The thing I like the most about "Cesar's Way" is that he discourages talking to a dog and encourages humans to treat dogs as dogs, not as people. I like that. No violence, no excessive words, no conversations. Exercise. Discipline. Affection. I can do this.

Reggie was great at the vet today and tested negative for heart worm (yay!). He takes pills without a fuss, and is probably the sweetest, most gentle dog I have ever met.

Gotta' love a Rottie (and whatever the heck he's mixed with)!

Did we need another dog? You bet...

Adoption Day!

We celebrated a new addition yesterday! Meet Reginald--we're calling him "Reggie" for short!

Stuff...

We are next on the referral list. GREAT news!!!!

A family ahead of us is receiving a referral next week, and then we are on the top of the list!

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Chinese New Year's Eve was a blast! We had more food than we could eat, and lots of good company!

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Natan has his first appointment with the pediatric development specialist next week--I continue to be amazed with his improvements every day. Meaningful speech...interacting with the others much better...and still the same little snuggle bug!!

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Fingerprinting appointment next Tuesday...early in the a.m.!!

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Reading "The Time Traveler's Wife" loaned to me by my friend, Beth. LOVE it!!!! Wasting time now when I could be reading!!! Finished Davis Sedaris's "Naked" and loved it also.

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Mimi & George are enjoying some of the Olympic events. Mimi has decided to forgo running in the Summer Olympics and opting for winter sports--yay!! Pairs Ice Dancing, anyone?? George is pissed that he is limited to Para Olympics...what next!!!!!

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Vinny is insane! Talking more and more--repeating everything and developing quite the little attitude! Potty training himself--this kid will wee-wee ANYWHERE!!!!!

Really? Horny?

So we were reading one of our favorite books the other night before bed. "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak.

Every time we read it, the kids choose which Wild Thing they are. This time, George chose Max. Natan chose the guy with all the "fedders."

Mimi pointed at one and said, "That's me. The horny one."

Oh dear...

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Lots to be excited about...

Chinese New Year party tomorrow--40 people coming. Fun!!!

Olympic Games begin tonight--letting the kids watch, and are rooting for Ethiopia's Robel Tekelmariam!

CHD Awareness Week!

We spent the morning at the GA State Capitol today to celebrate the proclamation by Governor Perdue: "Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week" is this week, February 7-14! Had our picture made with the Governor, along with several other Kids at Heart folks.

Here's our pre-Capitol photo:

catching up...

Dossier should be going out this month...yay!

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George is on day three of a virus or some such thing that has him exploding from both ends, sharting (!), and being miserable in general. He's a good little patient, though...knows to keep his bowl handy and his aim is impeccable!

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Natan's speech is flourishing--all of a sudden, he is turning corners and amazing us! He will still go through his testing coming up in a few weeks, but I think the outcome will be vastly different than we thought a year or two ago. Amazing...

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Mimi is over the moon about the upcoming Chinese New Year party. We may have to decorate this weekend or bust! Sounds like some interesting dishes are coming! Exciting!

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Vinny has started naming body parts more and more, much to Nana's chagrin! He is keeping us in stitches! Has officially named Natan, "Ta-Ta," not to be confused with "Tanta."

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No other comments on any other subjects--not venting...not complaining...just updating.

Some things are just not worth talking about...

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No matter how many times I watch Steel Magnolias, I always cry. That's today's confession.

It's all very Smurfy!

Natan's new favorite thing is being Jokey Smurf. It goes something like this:

Natan tells you in his Jokey Smurf voice, "I have a surprise for you!"

You respond with, "For me? Thank you!"

Natan says, "Pwoohhhhhhh!" hysterical laughter follows.

Maybe this link will help out:

Jokey

Had dinner at the Olive Garden yesterday--used a gift card. Two different tables complimented the kids on their behavior and I must say, that' a great feeling! We had waited an hour in the car until they could seat us, and we didn't sit down until after 8:00 p.m. We had a blast!

Vinny can say his ABC's, with some help of course, and Mimi is teaching him to count to 10!

Revving up for our CNY party...should be interesting!

Have I mentioned lately how annoying cell phones are? Nothing specific, just general annoyance. Sitting with someone and being on your phone is rude, especially at a restaurant or in a car. We jump down kids' throats of they do not say "please" and "thank you" but it's OK to text or talk anywhere, anytime??? Rude.

Happenings...

George: "Mama, why can't we touch fire sticks?"

(pregnant pause in the back seat...)

Mimi: "Because you will fire yourself."

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Driving home from choir, an Elton John song came on.

Mimi: "That's the man on the Muppets!"

George: "Yeah--you know--Uncle John! The guy with the pink shoes"

Mimi: "Can we go see him? Or did he die like Michael Jackson?"

Good thing it's a quick ride home...

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The Gaymans are here and the kids are wound for sound!

Natan has taken a liking to Uncle Neb--calls him "Buddy" and must say "Excuse me, Buddy??" a hundred times a day!!!!

Vinny is TALKING!!! Crazy amounts!

We are still thick in the world of Smurfs. Call me crazy, but I kind of like it!!!

It's smurfalicious!

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Tomorrow we are taking Uncle Neb to the World of Coke, Centennial Olympic Park and of course, the Varsity before they head back to Canada. Leaving the sisters home alone...I'm sure they'll squeeze one last trip to Target in!!!!!

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Natan...and a few other things

So...Natan had his four year well-check this past week. I am very pleased with the report--flourishing language, improved eye contact, weight and height catching up! Yay!!!

I am also pleased that we received a referral to a pediatric developmental specialist. There were still a couple of issues that the doctor suggested we have checked. Would rather know there is something or nothing, than sit and do nothing at all...

She told me it's OK to step in and prevent people from reacting negatively to him, and deal with those people firmly. I've been doing that more, but always with that hesitation of not wanting to make a scene or god forbid--hurt someones feelings! She told me to go with my instinct and continue with what we're doing--I'm his mother and know what's best. Thank you!!!!! Validated!!!!!!

All in all, it was good...

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Mimi has inherited my impatient gene. She is waiting for "Lovey" to come home, and doesn't understand why it has to take so long. I second that!!!!

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Vinny is keeping us in stitches! He now loves to sit at the piano, playing ever so lightly (with the occasional banging!), while singing, "Tinkle, tinkle, stah, tinkle..." and then claps for himself. Repeat several times...you get the picture!

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George is on Day 5 wearing his spider costume. We practiced what to say if someone picked on him. Mimi assured me she would help him if that happened!!

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Natan came downstairs this morning singing the theme song to the Smurfs....enough said!

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Getting ready for our big visit from Great Aunt Gail and Great (well, mostly great!), Uncle Neb--really looking forward to the visit!! GAG can go shopping with Mum, and Uncle Neb has an incredible staying power with kids--can play the same game over and over and over...

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G'night...

Hugely random stuff!

Reading "Against Medical Advice" about a boy's struggle with Tourette Syndrome--excellent book.

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NPR had a great piece about the great job that Captain Sullenberger did saving the lives of 155 people. Truly a hero. What Jason and I both commented on was his humility. He said he just did what he was supposed to do--followed the rules.

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Ever had a medical student perform a pap? It's interesting...

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Yes, these are unrelated. Hence the asterisks.

Just stuff...

Mimi has announced/decided that she does not plan on going through puberty. She was a little more specific, but I'll spare you the details!!!!

Natan is talking up a storm and making more and more sense!! His appointment was cancelled on Friday, so we'll try again this week...

George apologized to me in the bathroom at Walgreens the other day "for growing up." I assured him it's OK, but not to do it too quickly!

Vinny is adding words daily, and getting into as much trouble as he possibly can. I asked him the other day, "Do you want to go in the corner?" and he walked over to the corner and pulled himself up onto the chair. We don't spank, and our kids do not behave any worse than kids we know whose parents beat them daily! Gotta have a corner, though!

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Nana has introduced them to the Smurfs--is it terribly wrong that they watched an entire volume today?? And can sing the theme song? And can quote lines that Gargamal and Big Mouth the hungry giant say??

No judgement, please!

Snow Day!!

Jason is home today due to possible inclement weather.Yay!! About him being home, that is!

What bugs me?? Non-Southerners who make fun of Southerners when things are cancelled due to weather in the winter. OK, it bugs me when Northerners make fun of Southerners...

We are not equipped here for ice or sleet, or any of those wintry weather things. Why put people at risk just so that some damn Yankees won't make fun?

Wait a minute...did I just speak against the Yankee??

I get why school's close the night before--so much easier than scrambling around in the a.m.

What i don't get is why Jason's school calls at 11:00 p.m., instead of just posting to the website and letting him check himself.

Some people (in our house) actually go to bed early, because they have kids who get up before the sun.

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Today is Natan's four-year well check. I have my list of questions, some samples of some things he has drawn, and a pad of paper to write down everything our awesome doc tells us. Love her, and am looking forward to going ahead with whatever he needs.

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Mailing dossier today.

Fed Ex'd fingerprints to immigration yesterday.

I hate waiting.

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Current books recommendations:

1. The Lovely Bones. Awesome book. Don't know that i will see the movie, since I am usually disappointed. The book was phenomenal.

2. The Cellist of Sarajevo. I can only read in chunks. War kind of gets you down after awhile. Imagine living it and not just reading about it.

3. Push. The book that was made into the movie, "Precious." OMG, as they say. Disturbing. Heart and gut wrenching. Couldn't put it down!

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Kids just came downstairs. You would think there were 8 inches of snow out there!!! George: "Wow--look at all the snow!"

It's late...I'm rambling

New baby girl coming has been officially named "Lovey" by Mimi who has claimed serious ownership as the big sister and only girl!

Ready to mail our dossier paperwork this Friday. Have to check and double check...

I-600 and I-600A off to Immigration...then we wait!!!!!

*****

To those of you who knew I have been without a voice for months and months (on and off since I was preggers with Vinny), turns out that it was acid reflux. A little daily Prilosec OTC and we're good to go!!

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Vinny is talking up a storm--can now say "Sa Sa" and "Uncadane" on the phone when talking to my sister (Sa Sa) and brother in law (Uncle Dane). His name is not even Dane. It's Dwayne. But I will never think of him as that. He will always be "Dane" or "Dean" since that is what they first called him!!!!

"Elmothithe"--that's "Elmocize" with a lisp, and yes, he is addicted!!! Sorry...

"I won ge dow"--I want to get down.

"Doe" is George

"Mei Mei" is actually Mimi, which is what Mimi came from originally--it was George who changed Mei Mei to Mimi. Now I'm rambling!

"Nah" is Natan.

"Powdoo"--powder.

His newest thing has been to peek in his diaper on the change table and say "Wow!" Not sure why...not sure I want to know why!!!!!

OK, it may be time for bed. When the Vinny dictionary comes out, I must be tired!!!!!

Plus, you should see what my spell check looks like!

Have I mentioned how cold it is here???

Happy 2010!

Pizza...sparklers...Auntie Mame! Happy New Year!

No resolutions.

No need.

I kind of like the way things are.

Except that I will stop taking crap when it is not even remotely deserved. Not so much a resolution as much as just a commitment to myself.

Things to look forward in 2010:

1. Trip to ET to meet new daughter.

2. Gaymans coming for a visit.

3. Blue Noodles.

4. A new adventure in the fall for Mimi & Jorge.

5. Did I mention that trip to ET??????

In 6 weeks, we'll celebrate the new year that the kids really get excited about.

Year of the Tiger!

Grrr......

Happy Almost New Year!

Spent a wonderful Christmas Day with friends--I have never seen so much food and thoroughly enjoyed every morsel!

Our annual choir party brought more delicious food and plenty of great company!

Christmas was particularly exciting this year--five is the magic age when everything comes together and the 2 big kids really got into it! Natan is almost there, and Vinny is just happy watching everyone else get excited! I am proud to say, even in the midst of the excitement and craziness, our kids still understood the importance of giving versus receiving.

Jason has Natan and Vinny at Wal Mart and I am watching Mimi & George paint before a riveting game of UNO, and a visit from Sally.

Amost 2010, Year of the Tiger!

Natan's Fourth Birthday at OneTrueMedia.com

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Happy Birthday, Natan!

Natan is four today! I've been thinking a lot about his birth day...how we weren't present to meet him on his very first day, but how lucky we are to spend his birthdays with him now. I am thinking of his parents and the decision they had to make...are they thinking about him today? I imagine they are.
He had a very nice birthday lunch with Sally, Dudley & Dorothy, and of course, us! He was super excited about the train we bought him--it is LOUD and makes real smoke-not steam-that filled the house!!!! I love seeing him happy!!! Here he is with his new (loud) train:

Ode to Sally

My Friend Sally Hale...

No, make that my BFF Sally Hale.

She picked me up at 7:20 a.m. today and drove me in highly inclement weather to the hospital.

She sat with me in the day surgery waiting room for 2 hours.

She sat with me back in the surgery prep area.

She met me back afterwards.

She didn't make fun of the farting--and believe me, there is lots of that after!!!!!

She took me for Chick-fil-A for my first food in 36 hours.

Thank, Sally...I owe you!!!!

*****

I had a colonoscopy today.

Not so bad, after you spend the night cleansing your colon (aided by Mimi, who, every time I jumped up to run to the bathroom, announced, "Mama's pooping again!!!").

My doctor is the parent of a student I taught in third grade many moons ago...she is now an eleventh grader! It was nice seeing a familiar face, which is why I chose him.

During the procedure was probably the only time in five years I have had 30 minutes of uninterrupted, sound sleep!

Michael Jackson knew what he was talking about--it was the same medicine he used. Unfortunately, he used a wee bit too much!!!!!

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

December is busting out all over!

10 days until Christmas?? We'll never make it! Every day: "Is he coming tonight?"

Our plan for Santa this year: cookies, soy milk (Mimi does not want him to get diarrhea from cow's milk), and of course, carrots for the reindeer.

Natan keeps asking for the Polar Express CD to be played...over and over and over and over...

George announced his favorite song is "Feliz Mommydots"...

Vinny is a little stinker who is climbing on everything and "gurning" as Mum said Auntie Marta from Scotland would call it! And if there are any ornaments left on the tree by the 25th, I'll be surprised!

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Mimi had another night terror last night. She has very few now, but it breaks our hearts when she does. This one lasted over ten minutes until she finally woke up.

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Have been to Target more in the past two weeks because Mum is here than I go all year!! I am kind of missing my Wal Mart, though!!!

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Waiting for the next step with our new adoption agency. Getting ready to prepare our dossier and send some paperwork to INS.

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To blog or not to blog...

Lots of stuff happens that I never write about.

The kids say things constantly that I can't write down fast enough, and at times, I feel that so much happens in any given day I don't even know where to begin...

Bad stuff happens sometimes, too. Sometimes I write about that, and sometimes I don't.

Sometimes I find out certain people read this blog, and I don't want to share my kids' stories or anything remotely poignant--I don't want them to be a part of that.

I could put a password on the blog, but that's not the point.

Sometimes I want to vent about things that happen, either involving the kids or Jason or me...I believe that venting is fine when it doesn't personally call someone out or purposely identify and offend someone. I don't use names in my vents--I only name the people I like!!

I like to blog. It is a good way to record things I would otherwise likely forget!

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Been missing the Ingrams a lot lately...I feel another road trip in the near future!!!!

Sweet secrets...

I consider myself fortunate to have kids who say "I love you, mama!" at random times during the day--for no reason. It's just something they feel and are comfortable saying.

Sometimes though, I am hit with the unexpected.

Last night, after reading some books at bedtime, Mimi started whispering "secrets." Things like, "I love you forever in the whole world" and "Even when I'm bigger I want to stay here." She does this a lot, and loves to make up things to say and the whispers get silly and turn into tickles!

This time, out of the blue, she whispered, "I'm glad you adopted me..."

Celebration Day!!!!!

Woo Hoo!!!!

Natan's adoption is final and he has a new State of GA adoption certificate! On this most rainy day, we headed to the court house and Judge Arch McGarity did the honors. It was all very nice.

The whole family was there, including Nana and Aunt Sally.

Thanks...

I didn't post anything Thanksgiving Day.

Here's what I am thankful for right now, at this very moment:

George just sunk down into a sink hole in our backyard up to his neck.

I am thankful that:

a) Jason was outside with them and heard George yelling for help.

b) It wasn't Vinny that fell in, because the dirt would have covered him completely...

Where to begin...

What a week!!!!!!

We had an amazing week at Disney and the kids were so sad leaving...

"Good bye, Castle...good bye, gate...good bye, Goofy!" all the way out of the park!

I asked Mimi and George what their favorite thing was from our trip.

Mimi said, "The fireworks and the ticket gate."

George said, "The castle and the hotel."

Natan said, "No scream, Tigger..."

Natan managed fine--he is not in any of the character photos with the others, but I promise he was on the trip with us!!

Vinny ate it all up--loved the characters and all the crowds--ACTION!!!

Mimi and George loved every part of each day. They had a blast! Even eating became a magical experience. George kept asking if the characters were real and was very satisfied that I told him they were. Mimi would then whisper to me, "I can see a zipper--they are not real, but I won't tell George..."

We ended up spending three days at the Magic Kingdom, one day at Epcot, and one day at Animal Kingdom. Had a princess meal at the Norway Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and I thought M and G would explode if one more princess came to the table--they loved it!!!!!!!!

Fabulous!!!!

Pictures posted in Picasa.

The Old Eagle Has Landed...

4 days down...132 to go--but who's counting?!

Mum arrived safely on Saturday afternoon and we are now waiting for the movers to deliver the rest of her stuff. She has already lost her voice and her patience (kidding about the patience!). Mimi finally stopped hugging her at random--and many--intervals...very excited to see Nana!

She successfully watched three of four kids yesterday while George and I went to the Cardiologist.

So far, so good!

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We are switching adoption agencies for various reasons. It may set us back a month or two, but we'll get there. We weren't happy with the options presented by our current one, and while we love the service provided, you have to feel comfortable with the process.

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Asked the Cardiologist the question we have never asked: what will happen as he grows, but his arteries don't? She gave me the dreaded look and said, "We have no way to answer that...we have to wait and see." Grrr...I understand but it doesn't make it any easier. They are still interested in testing for the Williams spectrum disorder, but that really doesn't affect anything.

******

Revving up for Disney--leaving this Saturday a.m.!!!!

Almost there...

Received an email from our agency yesterday--our home study is officially approved, and once they have our fingerprints, we're in the referral queue!!!!

If we continue in the HIV program, our wait is longer--and we have no idea how much longer. But...no matter the wait, the end result is the same: Montague Number 5!!!!

Ending or beginning...

I just called my Mum's "Cobourg Number" for the last time...ever.

She is en route to my aunt and uncle's and then she'll head down here.

So why does it bother me so much?

We've been so excited to have Nana coming that I think I forgot why she is coming.

If my Dad were alive, and even more, if he were alive and well, they would both possibly be spending winters here.

But, that is not the case.

My mother is moving here for the winter because she has no family left in Cobourg.

I don't have a Dad.

That did not just dawn on me, but there it is...catching in my throat and making me think about him.

True...we were so much alike it was like oil and oil--I didn't appreciate that until I was an adult. That the very things that gave me spunk and fight were the same things that I'm sure made my Dad lay awake at night and fret!

And I miss him not seeing his four fabulous grand kids who are in love with an image we've created for them--one before he got sick. I hear myself throughout the day telling them things I remember about Dad--they are wearing pairs of his old--LARGE--sunglasses and I wish he were around to hear Mimi exclaim, "Everything looks lellow in Papa's glasses!"

So, even though Mum is moving here, it has just hit me that the only reason is because we lost something.

Storing Stuff

OK.

Mum will be here this weekend.

Mum's stuff arrives later this week.

So, we are busily keeping ourselves busy!

Making room for the stuff. I love purging. And not just Jason's stuff (!)--my crap, too!!

I realize we keep stuff around for some sentimental reason that I can't remember anymore...and now we are tossing stuff to make room for more stuff!

The kids are so excited that Nana is coming...and even more excited by the big moving van coming! They have drawn chalk lines all over the driveway and front walkway to "guide" the driver. Of course, all the rain has washed their lines away! Mimi & George have assured me they'll get to work as soon as the rain stops, otherwise the driver won't know where to go!

In between the stuff tossing marathon, spent another great day watching the kids just have fun. Playing, drawing, dancing--basic kid fun stuff!

If I loved this life of mine any more, I might explode!!

C'est un bon matin...non?

It's early.

I love early morning--it's the only time it's really quiet with the exception of Mum & Dad's G'Father clock chiming (that's a good thing, not a complaint).

Heart Walk today!!! Woo Hoo!

Last night, Jason arrived home at 6:00 to find Natan and Vinny sleeping, Mimi lolling on he couch with me, and George doing my hair in his "hair salon." Yes, his hair salon. He said, "Wait, mama--I'll go get my tools," which turned out to be: 2 whisks, a baster, a cooking brush, a garlic press, and and a pair of chop sticks. He talked to me the whole time, just like at HIS hair salon (he went for a scissor cut the other day and loved it).

Well...the festivities began!

As some of you will recall (not that I dwell on it!!!!), a certain someone-who-shall-not-be-named forgot a certain someones birthday last year (well, he remembered it on the wrong day). This year, the certain someone received: a giant homemade birthday card, a beautiful bouquet of my favorite flowers (sunflowers), my favorite cake (carrot)--the whole cake, not just a slice--and REAL coffee cream, not my usual fat free "creamer."

To some this will seem sad. Not to me. I was overjoyed to be spending the eve of my b-day with the people I love to be with the most!!

Now on with the Heart Walk!

Ahhh...again!

Baked 2 dozen muffins for my devoted walkers tomorrow morning, 3 dozen cookies for same walkers after the walk, roasted a chicken, roasted some asparagus, now cooking the carrots and broccoli (trees, as they are called here!), managed to run 4 miles doing 8.5 minute miles (finally!!), played with bubbles in the backyard with the kiddos, and now we just need hubby home after renewing the tag!

How am I doing so far, Auntie Gail???? If I could just perfect the art of butter tarts!!!!!

Big day tomorrow--Go Team George!!

Happy Thursday!

Jason and I do not often get to just sit together with the kids. Usually, when he comes home, I take the time to finish whatever needs finishing from the day--dishes, laundry, the usual!

Tonight, we sat and watched as all four put on one their "shows." Whisks become microphones, furniture is pushed together to make a larger stage, and stories unfold beginning with "Once upon a time..." and always ending happily! Most of them have kings, princesses, dragons, bears, and R2D2's. Vinny offers back up by just dancing to some tune running through his head. He also added to the party tonight by counting to five and then racing against himself.

And...off topic, but Mimi and George went wild for the Christmas music being played in Wal Mart today! However, they were easily distracted by a cool Disney shirt which elicited yet more exclaiming!

Good times...

Good Times...

Our second annual "Total the Knoll's" Halloween extravaganza!

Finger cookies compliments of Todd!

As a funeral director's daughter...I give them two dead, rotting thumbs up!!!!

Not sure about the chick in the funny hat, though!

Are my ears bleeding?

This morning (OK, really it started yesterday, but...)

"Can we put the Christmas tree up now?"

"Is Santa going to come tonight?"

"Can we listen to the Monster Mash?" Answer from another creature: "No--it's not Halloween anymore!"

"Are we going to Disney today?"

"Is today Nana's day?" (As in, is she arriving today)

"Is this the Heart Walk day?"

"Why can't we put the Christmas tree up?"

"But why is it not Halloween Day anymore?"

"Can we have candy?"

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Deepest Apologies...

Dear Anonymous,

I know I already cleared things up with you, but I am still feeling saddened and guilty.

As I ate ANOTHER piece of your cake that Natan won a couple of weeks ago, which we froze and then thawed, I thought about you. Oh, how I would have loved to see you in your inflatable clown suit!!!

The kids are still mad that we missed you. I keep telling them it's Rachael's fault...I'll stick with that!

So...forgive us.

We are not Halloween worthy.

Next year.

Most definitely.

Good news!

This may not mean much to you, but it means a lot to a person who is discriminated against due to being HIV Positive or having AIDS:

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/44/2009/10/30/obama_to_announce_end_to_hiv_t.html?wprss=44

The Fab Four (a mother's opinion)

George: "I'm different than other people, aren't I, Mama..."

Natan: Drew an actual, recognizable picture! For those who know his issues, this is HUGE!

Mimi: We all had both our seasonal flu and H1N1 shots last week and all the boys cried and

fussed--at one point, George yelled while crying: "Do Natan first! Do Natan first!" Let's just say I hope he is never captured by the enemy, because we'll all go down! Mimi, the trooper, sat, stared down the needle and didn't even flinch--she is still reminding the boys daily of their pitiful behavior! And she is now convinced of being a doctor "when I get bigger because I am the gooder at having needles!"

Vinny: "Dow! Dow!" No, not stock market, but wanting to go "down" to the playroom with the big kids.

Good things do come to those who wait, and wait, and wait...

Two great things:

First, we finally received the notice for Natan's re-adoption!! We have spent the greater part of the past couple of years since bringing him home getting him re-adopted in the U.S., and managed to do it without a lawyer (and an almost $2000 bill!!). It CAN be done!

His "ceremony" will be in Judge McGarity's chambers on December 2. VERY exciting!

Yes, he is still an ET citizen carrying a green card, just like his green card carrying, Canadian Mama!! But not for long...

Second good bit of news: Our home study draft went to the agency this week--yay!! They will review it, make sure it is complete, and then we are closer to getting a referral!

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Ahhh...

Had a really nice time last night...with the kids.

I know for most, the definition of a good night is being without the kids and more than likely drinking heavily. Been there, done that. I spent a good deal of my high school and university years without kids, drinking heavily!

I simply enjoyed doing nothing with the kids. We just hung out. Vinny is so busy that he keeps us all entertained, and the kids are remarkable with him!

I am usually thinking, "I need to fold laundry," or "I really should go tidy the kitchen," or "I should be vacuuming..." so I spent the whole evening ignoring all the things that I could be doing and did what I want be doing--being with my kids.

Jason is painting my Mum's room in anticipation of her arrival in 3 weeks. The only thing I have to do today is deliver the three big kids to and from dance class and review our home study draft so it can be sent to our agency--which means we are one step closer to boarding the referral train!

Happy weekend!!

Friday Night No-Lights...

Sitting in the sun room with dimmed lights, a cup of tea, and four sleeping babies!

Enjoying an episode of Law & Order (no judgement all you Grey's and Desperate Housewives fans--just getting my Jack McCoy fix fix the weekend!)

Subject: a pro life man shoots an abortion doctor to prevent him from performing late month abortions.

The pro choice folks are arguing that late term abortions are justified when an unborn baby has a genetic glitch or some other medical crisis.

They think that they have the right to abort a baby if it is not healthy.

Two of my kids have special needs. If we had known about George's heart defect before he was born, would I have an abortion? No way. Some would.

If we had known would be facing a possible diagnosis of Autism with Natan, would we have refused his referral? No way. Some would.

Some people would like to have genetic testing to see if their children will be born healthy. otherwise, abort them.

In this particular episode, one character is a woman receiving a 7 month (28 week) abortion b/c her child had a health issue and would not be expected to live but a few days after birth. During the procedure, the woman goes into labor and delivers the baby. The doctor offers to "finish", the woman tells him to, and he terminates the baby, successfully delivered and alive, and since the woman does not want it, the baby is put in the medical trash bin. He was alive...

Does it matter when a baby is born with such severe health issues that he/she would only live hours? days? months?

Not to me. You love that baby no matter what for as much time as he/she has.

That baby should have a proper death and burial--not medical trash disposal.

I know, I know...it's a TV show. But I know this happens.

If Mimi's parents had known she was a girl, she would have been aborted. In the past in China, women were forced to have nine-month abortions if it was discovered that they were carrying a girl.

Mimi.

For any pro choicers: spend time with a pregnant woman and go to some of her ultrasounds. Better yet, come with me to Ethiopia and experience how it feels to have a child placed in your arms in an adoption. A child who could have been aborted...

How many of you have a health issue you were born with or developed?

How many of you have children with or even just vaguely know someone with a health issue serious enough to impact life?

And just to piss some of you off, I also do not believe in the death penalty.

If I did, I would have every woman who has had an abortion living on death row...

Counting down...

If you've noticed the Disney ticker, there is only one month until the BIG TRIP!!

To prepare for the trip, we are letting the kids watch Mickey Mouse Playhouse in the morning--a change from our PBS-only rule. Still only 30 minutes each morning, so we haven't added an TV watching. (There are days, however!!)

As I enjoy my morning coffee, I am serenaded by all four, in their various voices, saying: "Miska, mooska, Mickey Mouse!" Vinny just says, "Me-mouse!" but I get his point!

We end the fun with the Hot Dog dance in which participation is mandatory by all--including Mom.

We are so ready...

For anyone who has travelled with a child who screams at the mere sight of any mascot, how did you handle it at Disney?

Change of heart...

I have written before about homeschooling and been set on doing it. However, in the past year, Jason and I have come to realize that it may not be the best fit for our kids, nor is it for many kids. And as much as parents have the right to make decisions about their child's education, what happens when those decisions aren't in the best interest of the kid? Before you get your panties in a wad--I am not telling any parent what to do--this is just about our family, and what we think is best for us.
Pam (cousin): you are excluded b/c I think you hit the homeschool nail on the head with Josh and set the bar for all parents who attempt it--YOU, I applaud!
As sad as we will be to see our two older kids go off, we know that for them, it will be the right thing to do. If it's not, we'll try Plan B.
I have worked with home schoolers before, and surprise--they are not different from "regular" kids. The girls still chase boys, the younger kids still fidget in their seats...I think often good behavior is simply mistaken for a lack of spunk! I'll take a spunky kid with lots if energy any day!
We want our kids to experience a wide range of educational opportunities: academics (and yes, they get that in the school environment), arts (they're there too, and can be supplemented at home), sports (it is part of a well-rounded education and would go a long way to getting America healthier!), science (and no, they  will not learn about creationism in public school), and community service (I know some people don't care about helping others, but we do).
As a former teacher, I take education seriously. I know teachers are bound by rules, tests, curriculum, etc., but I think that even with those limitations, kids get a better educational experience (excpet for Pam!!), than many home school students. And yes, there are exceptions besides my cousin. Some people make it work.
Of course, there are those who keep their kids out of school so they don't have to immunize. You already know how Jason and I feel about that: They are putting their children at risk, and they are also putting people's newborn babies at risk. In fact, they are putting our future daughter at risk until she is immunized. That's another blog post!
I have no grudge against kids who are home schooled--it's not their fault. In fact, I asked a group of home school kids once if they liked it, and over half said they actually wanted to be in school. Hmmm...makes you think, doesn't it?
So--Ola Elementary--Class of 2028 (?)--we will descend upon you in a year. We will be ready. Our kids will be six in kindergarten (giving them an edge!), they will be able to cut, paste, and do the things that kids their age should be able to do. The rest will left to their teachers, to be helped by us at home--this education thing is a partnership. We are not so arrogant as to presume we can do this alone. We are committed to making their school years meaningful--not just a chance for me to dump them every day and have free time.
It is not enough to tell people your kids are "so smart." You have to give your kids the chance to use their brains.
Brains, like the rest of our bodies, need to work, to exercise...
And, remember...if you are reading this, it's by your own choice. I am not holding a gun to your head. If you don't like what I write, then by all means, don't read! Am I a broken record on this point??

Monday, Monday

A few things:
It's finally normal, autumn weather! Crisp and cool and it just does the body good!
We attended a fall festival yesterday and the kids had a BLAST! Mimi was a tiger/kitty/lion, George was a pirate, Natan was a reluctant farmer, and Vinny worked it as a duck!

Observation/Confession:
Why are we (specifically women), concerned with appearance and weight to the point of obsession? Look at Hollywood--the women are all, for the most part, hot and skinny. The men, for the most part, are not. And yet, only the hot skinny women get the roles. Any fat chumpy guy can land even the leading love in a romantic movie. It's not fair!
I gained 40 pounds being pregnant with George--I tipped the scale at 170 the day I delivered him. It took me a year and a bit to lose it all, and only after I got serious about it. Two hour walks pushing a double storller, running on the treadmill, lifting weights...being diligent about food...
I only gained 24 pounds with Vinny, and I started off at a lesser weight (by 2 pounds). It took me three months to wear my pre-Vinny clothing, but this time, that wasn't enough.
Ever since, I have been on a mission--lose more, lose more, more, more...
In May, I saw 126--I thought that would be enough. Then, I got to thinking, "why not 125?"
I decided against it, but it is always there in the back of my mind (and butt).
126 doesn't seem light enough. But it should be. Because my weight should not define me.
Part of the problem, I think, is that people around me constantly talk about it. I get a weekly update on the weight they've lost or gained. These same people will eat dessert, but the entire time say, "I'm going to pay for this tomorrow" or "I NEVER eat dessert." I probably say those things too.
I like feeling healthy.
But I like to eat good food and enjoy myself.
I think super skinny women who starve themselves are probably very bitchy most of the time beause they are missing out on one of the greatest comforts life offers: FOOD. Not lettuce and tuna, but real, honest to goodness FOOD.
So, eat up, ladies. You can be healthy without sacrificing your sanity.

Random Stuff

1. Please do not refer to Chinese people as "Oriental"--if you MUST attach a label, try "Asian" or "Chinese" or in Mimi's sake...Chinese-American.
Of course, if you want to announce that you are ignorant, be my guest--it will save me pointing it out to you!

2. When you feel the need to ask me, "So...are those two yours and the others are adopted?" just save us both the trouble and keep your mouth shut. All four children are MINE. Two came from my belly, and two came from someone else's. It doesn't matter how they got here...they are MY CHILDREN!!!!!

3. Appearances. They do not matter nearly as much as what your actions demonstrate. So many people talk a big talk, but when it comes right down to it...they are just not open minded about anything different from them. Color...gender...special needs....we are all the same, with only a few differences that keep it interesting.
FYI...we have 2 special needs kids. You can't love our two without accepting and loving others.

Spay and Neuter Your Damn Pets!!!!

We helped out a a neighborhood dog yesterday by bringing her in the house until her human parents returned home. She was out runing (again), and she is a sweet, big girl.
For the record, I do occasionaly do nice things--for animals, at least!!
Turns out she's running because she's in heat.
I realized this after finding blood in my sunroom. Gross? You bet!
Did I put her out? You bet! Besides the blood, she was tormenting Stanley, who has been neutered.
I know she is not being kept for breeding...they are just too cheap and lazy to have her fixed.
I believe that it is indeed one of the most irresponsible things people can do with their animals.
She spent the day running around Ola--I am sure there are some new puppies in her future very soon...
SPAY & NEUTER your pets, people!

To be fair...

We spent last evening at the Henry County Fair.

Had a blast.

Left Vinny at home with Marilyn, so he was happy, but it felt a little lopsided without him!

Mimi & Natan LOVE the big rides, while George and Mommy prefer play games and win really crappy toys!!

The only downside was the Haunted House--we merely walked by it to get from point ! to B, and George had nightmares (literally!).

So...a good time was had by all!

Rainy days and Mondays...

Fell asleep (if you consider lying in bed not sleeping!), to rain and woke up EARLY this morning to rain...not a complaint, just a weather report!

Spent Saturday evening with about 50 or so families like us. People who have adopted, mostly from ET, but some like us, from Asia as well. It was the first of many monthly dinners at an Atlanta Ethiopian restaurant for families who have adopted from Ethiopia.

For the first time since we adopted Mimi, we weren't subjected to ignorant questions, rude stares, and plain out stupidity--what a nice change!

The kids had a great time, and we met some wonderful people. Next one is the same day as the Heart Walk--we will definitely be there!

Sunday had us at a post-nuptial reception for a friend and choir buddy. Way more elegant than we deserve! Delicious food, good company, and a babysitter! I have to admit (and you know I love being with my kids more than anything else!), it was nice to talk to adults, eat adult food, and not have to share my mini cupcake!!!!

It's also nice to lave your kids happy because they love who's watching them!

We are in crazy mode--what with Halloween decorations out and going up, the County Fair tomorrow, and Disney only 6 weeks away, the kids are on super hyper drive!

I will enjoy this unusual quiet time for a few more minutes before Wild Thing Number One rouses and flings himself downstairs.

I've had my hit of coffee crack--I am READY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

E.A.C.H.

I have recently joined an organization, "E.A.C.H." which stands for: Equality for Adopted Children.

Sadly, in this country, adopted children have not been/are not always granted the same rights as children born on American soil.

I know some of you probably do not think adopted children should have the same rights--I urge you to keep that to yourselves.

Here is a post from the E.A.C.H. website on a subject that I have been talking about for years:

Constitutional Amendment

Proposed Draft Constitutional Amendment:

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to allow children of American citizens to be eligible for the presidency.

Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled (two-thirds of each House concurring therein), That the following article is proposed as an amendment to the Constitution of the United States, which shall be valid to all intents and purposes as part of the Constitution when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission by the Congress:

“Article ---

“A person who meets the age and residency requirements of this Constitution is eligible to hold the office of President if he or she was born in the United States while subject to the jurisdiction thereof; was born outside of the United States but derived United States citizenship at birth from either parent; or was born outside of the United States but was adopted by eighteen years of age by a United States citizen who could transmit United States citizenship to a child at birth.”

Why the hell shouldn't my adopted children have the same chance at running for President as my bio kids?

If you are in the group that thinks they are not as American as you, guess what?

You're not just an a-hole, you're an ignorant racist as well! Congratulations!!

perhaps...

I have never considered myself a high maintenance person.

Until now.

I think I have always been high maintenance, too.

The very fact that I am taking the time to write about it makes me HM.

I think I appear low maintenance because my fingernails are short and clean.

I do my own toenails...when I have time.

I don't have a cute do that takes hours in the morning.

I have a functional wardrobe to suit my life, even though I would prefer to wear Ann Taylor every day!

My make up is, and always has been, simple (which has been declared hot at Fashion Week--yay me!)

I am not anal about my home and everything being in it's place.

Except...

ITEM #1:

Jason often helps loads the dishwasher. Most women would be happy enough that their partner helps.

I am, don't get me wrong.

Except...

I like it loaded a certain way.

I load the cutlery so that it is grouped together in little compartments. Easier and faster unloading when I have a toddler trying to climb inside to search and destroy.

I load the mugs and glasses a certain way.

I load the plates a certain way.

When Jason does it, he has NO ORDER!!!! He just puts stuff in, devil-may-care!

I always re-load. Huge waste of time, I know, but there it is.

ITEM #2:

PBJ.

I can't believe for one minute I am the only person out there who likes it a certain way.

My friend Selena makes (or at least, used to make) hers so that the PB was spread on one piece of bread, and the J was spread on the other piece of bread.

Me, I spread my PB (and only a measure of 1 tbsp), on one side, from edge to edge--no uncovered parts, and it is pretty neat and smooth.

Then, the J (again, 1 tbsp) covers the PB.

Jason's PBJ:

Slop on a glob of PB and J in that once again, devil-may-care haphazard way. Then, slap the other slice of bread over it--regardless of how the edges match up!!!!!

AHHHHHHHH!

Perhaps I should stop at 2 items.

Perhaps I am not high maintenance.

Maybe I'm just a freak.

A freak who knows what she likes.

Geez...I'd better go make a list of all the other freakish things I do...

Hmmm, nothing at all HM about making lists, right???

Million Dollar Question of the Day...

"Does Batman have a penis?"

Finally!

Yesterday was a long one...

There was a delay with G's MRI so he did not go back until after 1:00--and had not eaten or had anything to drink since 8 pm the night before. I know there are others who suffer more, but when it's YOUR kid...you tend to focus on that!

So...he did fine--fell asleep even before they put him under, so it was easy. The IV went in after he was out (Yay!!!).

Jason said the two Child Life Specialists were phenomenal!

The doctor made an unofficial report that there had been no change...argh.

We found out that our Dr. Metzger is retiring to go to African and do charity work as a doctor (I'm sure there is an official title for that sort of thing!!!). Like I said, he rocks!

George spent the night throwing up until late this afternoon.

Out of the blue, he turned the corner and was his old self!

Yay!!!!!! i missed my dancing robot!

I must add that I really believe Jason is awesome.

And that is that!

Remember to check out:

www.teamgeorgeatl.blogspot.com

Eerily quiet...

George left this morning for his MRI with Jason. He was on no food or liquid after midnight which is painful, since he is an eat-by-7 a.m. guy! Managed it like a trooper!

This will be his first MRI in the day surgery dept. with a Cardiac Anesthesiologist so hopefully they'll be able to complete this one--last time, his blood pressure dropped and they had to stop.

He took his hospital bag full of robots, paper dolls made for him by Mimi and his African American plush doll, Michael.

Mimi is moping around--just said, "I want Georgie..."

Isms

Mimi: "Bob (Crane) is my best adult friend..."

George: I was running on the treadmill, flipping through channels--stopped at "Baby Story" because George saw that the woman was having a baby and he wanted to watch. As the baby was making its final push out of the "area", George looked at me with intense seriousness and said, "Mom--I am NOT going to do that!"

Natan: Sitting in between Mimi and George this morning watching Mickey Mouse while I made b'fast: "I wub you, Mimi...I wub you, George..."

Yeah...I teared up a little!!!!

Rainy Day Ramblings...

Jason has the day off due to the flooding downtown--I don't ask why I just accept with tremendous happiness!!!
Here are some things:
We found out yesterday at George's appointment that our beloved Dr. Metzger is retiring. NO!!!!!! George was bummed, as was I. He's been with us from the start--walked us through the diagnosis and always treated us like we meant something to him.
So...we are now with Dr. Singh--we will come to love her, I reassured her, but yesterday, we were a little sullen!! Actually, she was great and very open and answered all my questions! She offered to have some more genetic testing done to see if George is affected in any way by Williams--on the spectrum, perhaps, as they say. She will have his calcium and elastin tested again.
He has been put on activity restriction for competitive sports but she gave him the OK to continue with dance (!) and asked that we check with her before he starts other recreational sports. Since he is so into drumming, I am hoping Marching Band appeals to him in the future!!!

After our appointment, the kids asked is they had behaved enough to be allowed IN to Chick-Fil-A and not just got through the drive through (a great reward for those long appointments!). It wasn't busy, so in we went.
Readers, keep in mind, I never do this without the proper reinforcements: Jason, Mum, or Sally!
As we walked in, the manager and one of the staff opened the door and greeted us rather enthusiastically--very Disney-esque!
They were SO helpful...Yvonne (my new friend at CFA), took my order from the table so I could stay with the kids then took my money, brought the food to us, refilled my coffee (!), and was all-round fabulous! The manager came back to talk to me about the kids...he was not ignorant (what a nice change!) and inquired about how our family came to be--foster...adopt...we had a nice talk about it.
I enjoyed an hour with my coffee, watching all four of my beautiful creatures playing together and having a ball!
Good times.

Now we are in the rain--not complaining, except that I worry that my future Atlanta real estate dreams may be soggy! I almost have Jason convinced to move in town--flooding will not be a plus to him--go figure!!!!!

George is sitting here with me at the piano...
Vinny is in with Jason causing more trouble than I ever though possible...
Mimi is still in wake up mode--we moved Vinny in with her (her choice) and he was up a little earlier than she might have wanted...
Natan just helped me make Janice's biscuits...he is a great sous chef!

Have a great Tuesday!

Heart Walk 2009

One more thing...
Check out the 2009 Heart Walk website:
www.teamgeorgeatl.blogspot.com
Register to walk, or donate!
The money raised helps save little lives like George's.
No amount is too small or too large!!

Rainy days and Mondays...

Two big kids are up--numbers three and four still sound asleep...coffee in hand...Word World on.
So...
Today we have a cardiologist appt. for George--taking all four kids. Should be a story there! It's his physical before this Thursdays MRI. "No needles!" George keeps saying--is he telling me, or reassuring himself??

We had a nice road trip to Birmingham to see the Ingrams with the Healy women--Mimi was in girlie heaven as she got to sit in the back of the van with Katy and Grace there and back. George got a taste of what it's like NOT to be the center of attention--all those girls!!!!!! There are a few people I know who have managed to cut through life's crap and are very "real" and open. It was nice to spend time in the car with one of those people!

Someone I know (no name) has a principal (not mentioning the school), who asked another teacher to spy for her--to see which teachers (not if, but which) teachers are making disparaging remarks--not if, but which ones! Does anyone else see what is wrong with this picture??

Oh yeah... about today's physical. For all you who are opposed to universal health care: If we lost our insurance, George would die. You see, he's not out of the woods. His arteries are not growing. He may need another surgery. So...the next time you are berating President Obama, think about George. If you have a heart, think before you speak.

Five years ago today...

George Williams came into the world

during Hurricane Ivan and a tornado...it's been a

whirlwind ever since!!!

Happy Happy Day, George!!!!

Mondays with Mimi...

A list of almost all the questions asked by Mimi driving home from shopping yesterday with Mimi (a minimum 20 minute drive)

Where does dirt come from?

Where do trees come from?

What's inside a seed?

Where do seeds come from?

Where are cars made?

Where is this knob made?

Where are windows made?

What is the sun made of?

What is the sky?

How are clouds made?

What is plastic made from?

What are polymers?

Why are there factories?

Where are dinosaurs?

What are organisms?

I am proud to say I answered every question as thoroughly as possible--we even had a discussion about Evolution and its process. She now understands that the world is billions of years old and that dinosaurs and humans DID NOT roam the earth together!

There were more questions...there are always questions...it's what I love about my Mimi!!!!

Stuff...

There is a walking stick on our outside wall. The kids are fascinated and even more so because it has been there ALL day!

Tonight when we came home and saw it, George asked:

"Why can't all the other sticks move??"

Mimi had her first violin lesson today with a high school student who plays the violin (helpful!). She is very excited and this is even before her violin has arrived! There are stickers in the book, so all is good!

Natan is talking up a storm, and we can understand more and more of it!! He has passed a milestone with his moods and frustration and seems to be making more meaningful connections, with fewer and fewer inexplicable "moments."

Vinny spends most of his time CLIMBING on everything...calling, "MIMI!!!!!", and learning new words..."moo" and "shoe" and hmmm...not much else!

Hi Ho Silver????

On our way to Panola Park yesterday, we saw this, and HAD to take a picture. Just when I think McDonough is not an exciting place to live...

One more thing...

Not that ALL we do is video Vinny dancing, but it sure does happen alot!!

Here is the latest--groovin' to Gwen Stefani!

Pondering...

A Facebook friend (Karen) posted this today and I like it!!

Read this!

Remember...I am Canadian (therefore I know how Universal Healthcare works), and have also spent tens of thousands of dollars on health insurance since George was born. George--who would be dead if we had not been able to afford insurance.

And don't give me that, "If you can't afford insurance, you shouldn't have kids" crap (all you Neal Boortz followers).

Here's a news flash based on experience: Rich people do no necessarily make good parents.

They tend to be moronic and neglectful.

I will not make the obvious "Republican" crack--the words moronic takes care of that for me!

Sorry--had to say it!!

Just One Voice...

Mimi: "Is that the same picture as the one on the fridge?" (looking at my Barry Manilow t-shirt)

Me: "Yes--good observation!"

Mimi: "How you got two pictures?"

Me: "We went to the concert and I got the shirt and the magnet."

Mimi: "Is it because he is the best singer?"

Score! Another Fanilow!

The Normative American Family

We have to turn in a family photo tomorrow to our Social Worker--we actually got this one after the first try--never happens!!!!

I LOVE the way Natan is holding onto George. We just told them to stand still and smile--they grabbed on to each other all by themselves...

And look--they are all dressed!!!!

Rat Race, baby

There was a rat in our pool today.

Gross.

It fought the good fight.

It swam around from the early, dark morning hours until sometime around noon.

Did not know rats could swim so well.

No. I did not rescue it.

It's a rat.

Rodent.

Disease-carrying crap animal.

Go ahead--call PETA.

The rat removal man is here now--that would be Jason.

Ugh.

Up and at 'em!

6:00 a.m.--Vinny is awake and running through his plethora of words
6:10--bottle, hoping he'll fall back to sleep and not wake George who is in with me (me who has been awake, as usual, on and off through the night)
6:20--after having slipped out to go downstairs, sitting with coffee in hand, I hear two creatures talking in my room. Hmmm...
6:35--George, Mimi and Vinny are up and downstairs--I have yet to take a sip of my liquid crack.
Mimi says to me: "It's way too dark to be up!" (Hello?? What I always say!)
I ask her why she's up so early.
her response: "Oh...it's because of all the sound. I heard footsteps and doors and whispers. Imust have good ears in Chinese--everybody in Chinese has good ears."
So--see what you can learn before 6:45??
Now to tend to the hungry creatures...and wait for Natan to rise.
After my coffee...