blah...

I miss my Mum.

Do you ever get too old for that?

I know we are a handful at the Blue House, but I also know my mother loves my kids to bits. And they love her too. We have all been moping since we drove away--not easy to mope in a car.

It just feels so wrong to live 28 hours from home.

Mum and I are already planning the trip next year! Six weeks might almost be enough!

Vinny is still singing his "Unca Dane" song...pretty much just singing in minor thirds over and over and over!

My sister made such a nice bunch of memories for my kids. These trips to the Blue House are still in the beginning stages, and they would be much better with Papa there. Someone to take them for ice cream...walk on the lane...wander at the back shore...but Sa Sa and Dwayne make it a place the kids think about and talk about all year. They even have "summer friends" just like I did--shout out to Jill!! I have known my summer friend for 30 years!

I lay in my Dad's bed with Mimi on our last night and I just kept thinking of how unfair life is. Not in a whiny, feel sorry for my family way. Just in the way that my Mum and Dad should be sitting on the front deck watching their grand kids together. Papa shouldn't be reduced to a mere memory that we can only talk about. It sucks.

I am so glad George favors my father so much--in looks and personality. I hope it helps.

***

We surprise visited my oldest friend this morning--woke her and her family up at 8:00 a.m.--was informed that people with older kids actually sleep in!!!! Had a great time catching up and Jason commented that it was like we just picked up where we left off.

Also took the kids to Albert College where I attended Grades 8-10 and loved! Nice to show it to my kiddos.

Spent a better part of the day with Great Grandma and Grandpa Stinny. He is in the hospital now waiting to move to a nursing home and the kids were very "big kid" handling it. They saw him. They yelled, "Grandpa!!!!!" They ran to him in his wheelchair. They mauled him. He loved it. One man in the hospital informed me we are doing a marvelous job raising the kids. He said he was a "disciplinarian" and had served in the Navy. He happened to catch us at a good time--all four sitting eating a Popsicle given to them by a nurse. Still, it made me feel good and I took the compliment with my usual sarcastic grace!

It's always hard to leave the Stinny's--just another part of missing home.

****

Heading to Uxbridge tomorrow morning to see Auntie Gail, Uncle Neb, more cousins, and finally meet Ben!!!!! Very excited--must dig out the scotch tape and paper I had packed for this part of the visit!!!!!

Then our last stop will hopefully be in Cleveland to see Selena and meet her baby finally!!!

We have indeed had a very lovely vacation--too short, but so great to see people!!

My USB cable is in the car and I am in bed. You see how that will play out. No pictures until we get home!

Eastward Down & Homeward Bound...

We're here, and have been for some time now!
Had a most fabulous trip up, stopping in D.C. first, then Portsmouth, NH. GREAT times with great cousins!!
Not doing much--beach...nap...read...beach...nap...just repeat several times each day!
Mimi has discovered her inner animal whisperer and is one with the cows. She greets them every morning and says g'nite every evening.
Everyone swam in the chilly ocean the other day--and had tons of fun finding hermit crabs and sea shells.
Waiting for Sally to get here this Saturday for a very quick visit--will have to cram all sorts of stuff in! LOBSTER!!!!!!
Enjoying a cup of Tim's--it's a bit of a trek, but completely worth it! Hitting the first of many provincial parks today.
Going to Birchtown next week to see the Black Loyalist settlement there--anyone who has read "The Book of Negroes" will know what this means. Also going to see the Bluenose II, time permitting. Lots to do, but main thing: RELAXING!!!!!!
Lots of photos to post when we get home.

sad hearts...

Selam may have a new heart valve and be feeling better, but there were many heavy hearts tonight at dinner. We had our last meal with him before we had to say good bye. He and I and one or more of the kids at any given time have spent the last five days together, hanging out. We have had so much fun and when I looked at him, saw tears running down his cheeks, I just kind of fell apart. Then Mimi started, and then Jason...it was pretty bleak! We will get to see him one more time at a farewell party in July, and then, when we finally get to ET for the new baby, we can visit him in Addis.

But...tonight was hard. I love meeting new people and extending our family in this way but it sure hurts to say so long...

We love and miss you, Selam...peace, man.

13!

13 years ago today, Jason I eloped at the Cobb County Courthouse!

We met in February, got engaged three weeks later, and then got married in June!

What a journey!

Dance Fever!

We love the Dance Academy!

Peace!

That is what "Selam" means...and it fits! We have had a great week getting to know Selam while he recovers. He is a trouper! Really--who else would sit and watch a dance rehearsal for two hours and keep smiling?! He has made himself at home and we couldn't be happier. Tomorrow is his last day here, so we are ending with pizza night--a favorite!

Some pics from the week, including dance rehearsal:

Learning how to drive!!

Astronomers!

Magicians/George & his Girls!

My Kids!

And I mean all five! Vinny has a new best friend, George has not stopped asking random questions, Natan is in full show off mode, and Mimi is enjoying showing off Stanely! We love Selam! He's watching a movie now and having some peace and quiet! We are all exhausted and supposed to be sleeping, but I hear footsteps overhead!

****

Off-topic shout out to my girls, S and C for this morning--you were AWESOME!!! I am so proud!!! I can say, "I knew you when..." Thanks for stepping up and being great leaders!

****

T-Minus 6 days until "The Trip". 'Nuff said!

****

Another shout out to...Moye's Pharmacy--they were VERY generous today in helping with Selam's meds...and I mean GENEROUS!!

****

Time to go to bed and not sleep...again! But, life is good.

Good times!

We love our Ingrams!!

Updates

Passed the USCIS Interview. Waiting for my Oath Swearing appointment--could have done it on the 18th, but will be in Canada!!!

****

Spent yesterday with the Ingrams in B'Ham--had a great time and feel refreshed!! Did you know it was National Donut Day? We found that out at the Krispy Kreme where we all devoured "Fresh Hot Now" donuts and milk!!

The kids had such a super time with heir buddies yesterday--George cried when we left, and Mimi said as wee were leaving the donut massacre, "I am in love with Mary KK." Ahh...

We miss our friends.

****

We have someone interested in buying on of our grand pianos--yes "one of". We are having a few epiphanies around here. One of them is that we do not need so much stuff. We have said this for such a long time, but still hold tight to the whole "must own a house...must have stuff...must reach the American dream." Maybe the American dream should be re-visualized. Well, that and we could use the money to help pay some of our medical debt. Yes, folks--medical debt.

****

Saw Salem yesterday--he looked fantastic! I had George and Mimi with me...they were loaded with brownies and a picture. Can't wait for him to be out of there!

****

Shout out to my sister Sara, and friend Stephen: my sister has completed her first book and is ready to edit and then send! Yay!! I know she is relieved...this has been a long time coming and I will actually pay full price for a hard cover copy--I NEVER do that!

Stephen has finished his "first fifty pages"--the important section that gets sent off as query to perspective publishers. Yay!

Nice to be surrounded (even if long distance) by ambitious people!

****

A bigger shout out to my Mum. I will not go into details, but sometimes I forget how cool she is. Thanks, Mum.

****

Good day...

This is it! Tomorrow is Interview Day at Immigration! I am ready! Woo Hoo!

****

Selam has come out of surgery and is doing OK in the CICU. We will stop and see him tomorrow after our appointment.

****

Mimi and I shopped just a little on the Square today for little gifties...we never get to do this, so it was quite fun!

****

All in all, I'd say today was quite productive! I'm feeling all sorts of good things...

****

Natan

Had our meeting at Natan's new school! He is eligible for the PreK program starting this fall--I even met with his teacher! I saw their list of goals and objectives and I am so excited to watch it all unfold!

****

June is busting out!

Well...it will be when most people read this!

Busy week--meet with the Special Ed team regarding Natan--like I told Sally today, I act like it's "cool" and "we're OK" with all of this, but there are moments when it hits me and I crumble.

Duane? Vangie? Kyron? Ever have those moments? Not regret, but something else I can't put my finger on...

*****

Selam has his third open heart surgery Tuesday--we will be anxiously waiting to hear good news, and then we are ready and waiting to discharge him into our care! I am a little nervous with the possibility of giving him needles (!), but you know what--I can do this!

We spent Sunday evening with him and the kids are super excited to have him here, even if it's for a shorter time than originally planned. Lots of popcorn and movies planned!

*****

Thursday is my Citizenship Test Day...not worried. I'll just be cool and not try to loosen the joint up! I'll always be a Canuck deep down, in case you were worried! Then we get to visit Selam and get everything set for him coming home. Kids very excited to get "Nana's Room" ready for their newest friend!

*****

Friday is my saving day! As in saving my life day! Off to B'Ham for a day visit with our buddies the Ingrams. By Friday, I will need this visit more than ever! Two years and we still miss them like crazy!

*****

Two more weeks and we'll be in DC!!! Lots planned, and looking forward to seeing Nikol and Olivia. Then off to Portsmouth to visit more cousins then finally to Mum's!!

Natan thinks we'll see Papa there...George informed him, "Papa's dead! He's with my other robot!" OK...

Mimi will randomly announce that she misses Papa. I know it's the idea she misses. It gets me every time, just thinking of how much he'd be enjoying them right now.

*****

Jolly Holiday!

Jason and Minna's Day of Fun! (for all you "Friends" fans out there!)

Jason finished yesterday and we spent a day on a jolly holiday--we didn't tell the kids what we were doing or who we were seeing, but that they would have some surprises! George was driven to madness over not knowing--Mimi took it in stride and went along for the ride! Natan and Vinny could have cared less--they were just happy!

First stop: Kennesaw Mountain National Park. We used to go running there (pre-kids) on the mountain trail--kicked our butts and I sure do miss it! Yesterday, we were walking it with our four kids and had even more fun! At one point, two young guys ran by us with their shirts off. We stopped to let them pass and Natan pointed and said to them, "You're naked! Why you're naked?" Got a chuckle...

We let the kids choose something from the gift shop but it had to be under five dollars. Mimi didn't hesitate and chose replica confederate money--George and Natan are sharing Civil War figures and acted out the battle in the car--lots of "Cannonball!!!"

What I loved most was that the kids had a blast and thought it was "the best surprise ever!"

Second Stop: The church Jason worked at when we met. He is playing for a wedding this weekend and we went with him for the rehearsal. We were meeting up with Tanta, but I hadn't told the kids. They were over the moon when she showed up! With new robots! We played with Tanta while Jason and Papa Tom worked at the rehearsal.

Third Stop: The Varsity! We eat at the Varsity every year on the last day of school--they LOVE it!

On the way home, I announced that we had spent a fabulous day together. Mimi responded,"Mama...it was a red letter day!" That's my girl!

The pictures are in Picasa, but here are some of my favorites:

Happy Day!

Lots of young people graduating today--Congratulations!

A friend posted on Facebook that at his daughter's fifth grade to Middle School walk, the teacher said it was the "end of childhood." WHAT??!! Are you kidding me? Maybe that is the problem--kids are forced to grow up faster than necessary. I know many young people who are teens and yet at the same time, kids. The way it should be. I hate the thought of having to grow up!

****

Heard from our agency--there just have not been any babies lately. Good for babies. Bad for Montagues!

It'll happen...see? My patience hat is back on and securely tightened...for now.

*****

Jason is finished today at noon--heading to Roswell to see Tanta and Papa! Yay!

2 weeks until we head east! Can't wait!

I'm ba-a-a-ck!

Oh my beloved treadmill--I couldn't stay away! Three days without you was an eternity...I love you. Plain and simple.

****

G and N threw some clothes in the pool today (don't ask why--there's no rhyme or reason!). Mimi picked it all up, lay it over the fence and told me she was "unwetting" it.

****

Trying to find ways of dealing with some of Natan's "stuff." Call out to anyone who has books on PDD and/or Autism that they are willing to lend. There is so much out there, but I don't know where to begin. I hate buying books and then find out they're useless.

****

Four days and Jason is DONE! 'Nuff said!

****

Is anyone else bummed that Law and Order is ending? Hello? No more McCoy?? Not that I get to watch--it's just comforting to know he's there...

Dance recital and trip home...less than 3 weeks away!! WoOoHOo!

3 years...

Natan has been part of our family for three years as of this week.

Seems like he started out here and I can't imagine our family without him!

owie.

Self medicated. Four ibuprofen washed down with red wine on ice. No judgement, please.

Desperate times call for desperate measures!

That has numbed the pain. But it will return.

I barely managed to stay off the treadmill. I miss you, old friend. We've been together 10 years. Next to my husband, my treadmill is the only thing I will run in my undies around!

It's just not something you can do out on the road or a high school track!

Going to bed to lie in agony for a few hours. Think self medication has taken effect...

****

Embarking on something new and exciting...t.b.a.

****

Still waiting for our referral. Mimi and I are especially frustrated. Mimi says she just "wants a picture so she can start imaging how it will be like to have a new sister!"

****

ouch.

I fell off the treadmill yesterday.

I was going 6.3 mph and simply tripped--something I have never done on the treadmill before. I used my back to twist myself away from i as I was falling--probably not smart now that I can't move...

To make matters worse, I got back on kept running. I did slow it down to 6.0 (!) and only ended up doing 2 miles before my lower back muscles exploded! I thought I would help myself out by lifting weights (my normal workout), but I'm not sure that helped either. Don't judge me.

I am under order by Jason to not engage in any exercise today. Running is my booster. No matter how tired I am, it wakes me up and gives me dose of adrenaline that keeps me going.

If I could, I would kick myself for being careless. But it would just hurt too much!

Vinny's 2nd Birthday

Mixes rule.

So...I decided to make Vinny's birthday cake. Usually, I would use a mix because I think they are better. Why mess with something someone has perfected and put in a box?

I didn't have a mix.

Fine.

Make it from scratch.

I followed the recipe to the letter. I know how to bake. I learned from the best.

The damn thing didn't turn out. I now have smoke billowing from the oven, the smoke detector is beeping, and I have four freaked out kids.

The recipe was from the "America's Test Kitchen" book--everything else form there has turned out so far.

This recipe SUCKS.

I have never used a mix and not had it turn out. And I always get rave reviews for my birthday cakes.

Cake mixes rule.

Baking from a mix does not make me an inferior baker. It makes me a smart one!!!!

Lesson learned.

Now...how to get the smell of smoke out of the house before our guests arrive on Wednesday????

Happy Mother's Day!

Can't think of a better way to have spent this afternoon...at the home of our friends the Schmidts (Auntie Lynna). Their oldest daughter graduated from HS this weekend--I was her first grade para pro, and Jason taught her piano through sixth grade. We have had the pleasure of watching her grow into this amazing young woman. I have always told Lynna she is the my child rearing inspiration--she has raised these two terrific kids! The bonus today was seeing many of my former third grade students. I haven't heard "Mrs. Montague" hollered at me for some time--kind of miss it!!

So fun to see young people turning into wonderful young adults!

*****

To complete this day, how about a referral tomorrow?? Pretty please??

Happy Mama

We celebrated Mother's Day early today. I know there are some who think it's just another "stupid Hallmark holiday" but we believe in this house that anything can be a celebration!

The kids went with Jason and got the card and flowers and were barely out of the car yelling, "Daddy got your surprise flowers!"

I don't ask for it, I don't expect it as some women do. We do this so our kids can see that it is the simple things that make a day special.

The real surprise? Chips and dip. A treat that I never let myself indulge in! Delish!

You really don't need a lot of money to have fun. Four kids...a great husband...it's all I need!

(Although a new pair of shoes wouldn't hurt!!)

Ready or not!

Just returned from Kindergarten registration!

Mimi and George did fine and each were given a book so they are over the moon!

Natan is pissed that he didn't get a turn with the teacher!

Vinny loved reading the books.

Lucky for us, there is a friendly face in the front office--our friend and neighbor, Felicia!

The teacher we met first said we could cry on the first day of school, but not today--just for the record, I could have cried today!!!

Watching each walk off, holding someone else's hand...

They may be ready, but am I?

D-Day

So...in the midst of our latest adoption, I am also changing my citizenship. This will make traveling much easier!

My interview is in June (fast approaching)! I have been studying and I pretty much know the 100 answers--but will I recall it all when I am sitting in a room with an INS officer??

How will I keep from making inappropriate comments--you know--using humor to mask my anxiety!! They don't always get my sense of humor down at INS...go figure!

Should I wear my "Yes, we did!" Obama shirt?? Probably not!!

More importantly--how many Americans born here can answer all 100??

Try this sample:

US Citizen Sample Test

What a day!

Awake at 5:00...

Up at 6:00 with M and G...

Breakfast for all four finished by 7:00...

3 dozen "Cookies for Baby Winn" baked and cooled by 9:00...

Phew.

It has rained ALL DAY--I know we need it, but it makes for some rather cooped up kids and mom!

Usually we spent the greater part of our day playing outside, or puttering in our surprisingly successful vegetable garden!

Today, Mama cleaned...and cleaned...and cleaned!

Laundry!

Floors! Actually found myself in wench mode, hands and knees on the floor in the playroom, scrubbing!

Fit a nice four mile run and workout in during V and N's nap time.

Had friends over for dinner--they brought pizza, so no work on this end except for a salad and some dessert. Good time had by all!

I am now taking my down time...

I wouldn't change this day for the world.

America's Next Top Model???

Today was an exciting one for Mimi and me...our first (and likely last for me!) fashion show!

It was a fundraiser for Change One Life, so of course, you will not here no from me!

Turns out, it was pretty fun and I admit, I LOVED the dress they had for me (came complete with a set of boobs!). Mimi was adorable and strutted her stuff like a pro! Very proud! Nice to do girl stuff with my girl!

Pictures:

To clarify

I often write my blog as a reaction to something recent or in the past. I don't intentionally wish to offend, but I'm sure I sometimes do.

Although I stand by what I write--it's only my opinion and really means nothing in the grand scheme of things--I still would like my readers to know that I am not singling them out, even when they think I am!

I would never want to hurt someones feelings.

Not apologizing--just letting a few of my readers know they are people I am proud to know!

And yes, some of the people I like even let their kids use cell phones! Egad!!

*****

Samantha--I always include you in the Standard crew of families I love!!!

Sigh...

I love my kids.

The other day, Reggie let one rip that was definitely silent and very deadly. I tried to blame it on Ya Ya (Mimi's snuggle lovey), but she informed me, "No, Mama. Ya Ya can't fart...she doesn't have a bum!" Good point.

Big day yesterday. We told George way back in March that he had to jump in the deep end without his floaties on. Well, I told the kids that it was the last day of April and George remindedme that he had a deed to do. So...last night, with Jason waiting for him in the deep waster, George jumped in!! OK--I teared up. To watch him do this, with Mimi and Natan cheering him on, made my heart swell!

Natan is playing a guitar now--he finds a spoon or something similar and strums while he rocks out! It's super cute!

Vinny is now copying Natan's "Ta-da!" moves. This one is hard to describe, so I'll try to get some video.

*****

We watched "It's Complicated" last night--OK, I watched while someone, as usual, fell asleep halfway through! It was great! I recommend highly!

Food for thought...

We are proud to be non-spankers/hitters/abusers.

Here's a little something to go along with that:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2010/04/spanking_can_cause_children_to.html

Do it for the Herd!

So tired of the anti-vaccination folks out there...

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=125570056

YAY!!

MONTAGUES: 1

HURDLES: 0

Finally--a break!!

Took Natan to see his pediatrician to have his hearing re-checked and to get a letter of permission to have the county start his testing.

Lo and behold he PASSED!!!!!

What a great feeling when half the nurses, who have known us since the day George was born, cheered along with me! Major shout out to The Kids Specialists and Dr. Catherine Mauer, hands down best pediatrician out there! LOVE HER!!

After George's diagnosis back in 2004, I received a call from Dr. Mauer, having only known her for three months. She was just calling to say, "Thinking of you" and "Are you holding up OK?" I will never forget that kindness and for that plus many other reasons, we will be loyal patients!

Now, almost six years later, she still shows the same concern for each and every one of our kids. She has embraced all four children with a loving heart and tirelessly deals with my never ending questions!

So...hurdle one is no longer--we are in the process!

Stuff

Heading to a music festival in Marietta this morning with my children's choir--they will be awesome, because they are awesome!

Supposed to go on to Six Flags after, but with the weather, thinking not! Rain date!

****

Ethiopia update: We now have to make two trips...yikes! Parents are now required to be present for the court date. Both parents. Unless there are major circumstances that prevent one parent from going. I am thinking that having no one in the country to help watch the kids 24/7 is considered a major circumstance!! Then, one parent returns for the visa appointment and to bring home baby! Still no referral, but at least we know ahead of time what to now expect.

****

Just wanted to say...

I would just like to point out that there is nothing wrong with adoption.

There is nothing wrong with foreign adoption.

If you have completed neither a foreign nor domestic adoption, you should probably just keep your opinions to yourself.

People adopt from other countries for many reasons.

We went through a domestic process a few years back, and simply did not want to mess with the crazy red tape. We chose Ethiopia instead. Man, am I glad we did.

Yes, there are many kids right here in this country that need homes.

But there are millions dying in other countries that need homes and there are no programs in place to take care of them.

That's not a political statement. It's not a liberal thought. It's just the opinion of a person who thinks that we could do a better job taking care of each other--loving each other--without judgment.

'Russia Really Closing? News, Rant & More'

'Russia Really Closing? News, Rant & More'

What's your verdict?

So...we have had confirmation that it is indeed racist and just plain thoughtless to make the following comments regarding Natan:

"How can you tell if he's dirty?"

"Doesn't he blend in with the mud? How can you tell the difference between him and the dirt?"

So...my question, readers:

Is it OK for people to imitate the way Asian people speak in a not-flattering way?

What if I started making fun of Southern accents, insinuating that with the accent comes stupidity? And what about now that Mimi cocks her head and gives a look that says, "I know there is something wrong with this, but I don't yet understand..."

Perhaps I am realizing that in truth, some things are not funny. We expect children to do things and say things that are not always appropriate because they may not have learned any better yet...but an adult?? No excuse.

Perhaps I am becoming earnest as I get older and wiser. I know you can have a sense of humor without being cruel or racist.

Just be funny.

Or try silence...

Top Russian official demands freeze on U.S. adoptions

Top Russian official demands freeze on U.S. adoptions

Posted using ShareThis

Scrambled, poached, or fried...

George: (looking at my stomach) "There are no more babies in your tummy."

Me: "Nope. That's right."

George: "Can there be another baby?"

Me: "Do you want Mommy to have another baby?"

George: "Yep."

Me: "I'll have to talk to Daddy."

George: "No...you just need to eat the baby, and then go to the hospital and squish it out. It's in an egg. That's how."

Oh--NOW I get it!!!!

Sad Day

After a most fabulous weekend, our guests have departed...from our house, not the earth.

When the kids got up, Mimi asked where they were and started crying when I said they had gone back home. Very sad. George is "pissed up." Not sure if it's at them or me...he just wanted them to stay!

We had a great visit, and we can't wait to see them in the summer on our way to or home from Nova Scotia!

The Eagles have landed!

Our cousins are here!

Family!

We are so excited!

Olivia and Nikol have NOT changed and do not look a day older than they did the last time we saw them!

And they are still liberal Democrats!!!!

Life is good...

They gave us some stuff of Bill's--"Billy Montague" report cards, homemade stuff, the newspaper, wrapped in its original brown paper, from the day Billy was born.

I forgot how much I miss Bonnie and Bill--and how much our kids would have loved them.

The kids were bouncing off the walls all day in anticipation of the visit. In order to explain where they live (Maryland and Georgetown), I simply told them that they live near Barack Obama. That sent them over the moon!

****

Mimi and George attended Jason's choir program last night with me--it was fabulous!!! An in-tune orchestra made up of volunteer teens and adults is worth its weight in gold--and his choir always sounds great!

And Jason in a tux, I must say: YUMMY!!!!

****

Received a referral update Thursday--there are more babies who are getting through the legal stuff as we speak, then we are next in line! I can't stand the wait. It could be number ten, and I would feel the same impatience. Her lovey arrived yesterday, and now the kids are getting VERY excited!

Mimi suggested we let the dogs lay on it so it would smell like us.

Hmmmm.

I suggested we all give her a snuggle and then Mommy will spray a teeny bit of perfume on it. Nothing about Elizabeth Arden says dog!

*****

Speaking of dog.

Had a Marley & Me moment on Thursday. I heard some rustling nearby and caught Reggie stealing some wrapped Easter chocolate I had set out for my students. I chased him, literally in circles around the sun room (not very calm-assertive), without yelling because I was laughing, and finally got him. He had three pieces of chocolate, wrapped in foil that he was madly trying to swallow until I reached down his throat and got them--those pieces are for kids who never practice!

*****

Natives are restless...and I don't mean our company!

Ahhh...

Spring...I welcome you with open arms!

Today was what I consider a perfect day.

Kids agree.

Clear blue sky.

Strong sun.

Light cool breeze.

Played outside until we had to come in for a break!!!!

****

Things said of late:

Mimi (when I took out our pound cake baked this morning):

"Mama...you are a good cooker!"

George, yesterday while Jason and I were having a conversation about Elvis Presley:

"Elvis? We know Elves, Mama!"

Me: "Huh??"

George: "You know--at Nana's Blue House!"

Me: "Huh??"

George: "Elvis...who lives by Nana on the farm."

Me: "Oh! You mean ELDON!!!!!"

George: "Yeah...Eldon."

(moment of silence)

George: : "I like Eldon. He's my friend."

And finally, this one was heard while the kids were playing with play dough. They were making little play dough balls and rolling them along the kitchen table:

Natan: "Wook, Mama! I have Georgie's balls!"

George: "Mama! Natan gots my balls! NATAN!!! Give me my balls back!!!!!!"

Yeah...I really have no comment...
****

Jason's cousins (Dad's side), Nikol and Olivia, are coming this weekend to visit form D.C. The kids are SUPER excited to see them and it is all they talk about! Is today "Cousint Day?" I hear every day, all day! Have baked and cooked and shopped and we will pick them up Friday evening! It's been awhile and we are all looking forward to their visit!!

S-A-T-U-R-D-A-Y---NIGHT!!!

The song is so much more exciting than me sitting here listening to Jason snore on the couch beside me!

Saw some old friends at Jason's school yesterday...so good to see familiar faces!!!

Afterward, we tried a new Ethiopian restaurant, Bole, which is around the corner from his school. It was excellent--very spicy!!!! The kids loved it--only Vinny ate the spicy food!

They have only been open 2 months, and we really want them to stay--it's good and also closer to us!!

*****

I think I am nesting. I sorted through all the kids' clothing this morning--dividing up the 0-12, 18 month, 2 year, all the way up to 10-12! Friends have been so generous with their own kids clothing, handing them down to us, and I had a crazy urge to get it all organized and separated. And it was so much fun going through the baby girl stuff!!!

*****

Lovie for Lovie!

Here is the "lovie" for our new Lovie...it is sibling-approved!!!! Mimi has a pink bear lovie and thought her new sister would LOVE to have this one! We are starting to get stuff together so we are ready when her referral comes! The agency suggests sending over a few items and a picture (for the staff), which we did for Natan. It is kind of nice to arrive and see your new child with some things from his/her new home...

This child, number five, is as exciting as one through four!!!

All in a day...

Mimi: "Mama...where did you get the recipe for this?"

She was referring to my evidently righteous "Beans & Wieners"--I told her it was a family recipe passed on from my great-great/her great-great-great grandmother. I told her it would be hers one day and now she is very excited!!

What a letdown it will be one day when I smack a pack of turkey wieners down beside a can of Bush's Baked Beans and say, "Heat 'er up, girl!"

****

While on the treadmill, V and N were napping and M and G were watching Kai Lan. George came running into the workout room and informed me that Sponge Bob was coming on--that is a "no no" show. Don't ask me why, I just don't let them watch it.

George: "It's OK, mama. We can handle it. We can handle Sponge Bob."

****

Tonight was our weekly Wal Mart shop. As a treat, we stopped at Dunkin' Donuts for a coffee (obviously for Mom--DECAF). Vinny and I waited in the van. As Jason came back with the others and a cup of coffee, Vinny started singing,

"Coppee, coppee, cooo-ppee!" Music to my ears!!!!!

****

Natan sat at the piano today and placed a nice little bit...do we have a musician in the making??

Must. Get. Some. Sleep.

Midnight.

I was wide awake last night into the wee hours of the morning. This always happen, as my mind tends to race as soon as my head hits the pillow.

Thinking about so many things and I absolutely cannot stop. Suggest what you will--this has happened all my life and nothing helps.

Hoping to be asleep within the next thirty minutes...thought my blog would do the trick!!

****

Mimi came downstairs tonight around 10:00 or so...dazed and confused.

I asked the standard question when this happens:

"Where are you?" (she said basement while standing in the sun room)

Now I know she is asleep--we don' wake her up unless we have to--it's what the exerts say!

I pick her up and hold her.

Then the crying starts.

Get her on the toilet before she pees in her jammies or throws up--or both on a tough night.

Tonight was an 8 on a scale of 1-10.

Mimi has Night Terrors.

Night terrors can happen to anyone, not just to children who are adopted. This is part of the reason we co-sleep. This daughter of ours didn't have anyone snuggling her or loving her for almost a year of her life. We are not going to just ignore that because of those around us who are conventional, anal people who frown on our sleeping arrangements.

You don't have to sleep with us, so why do you care??

Now that I understand her night terrors, I know how to properly handle them.

The part that worries me is that she sleep walks from upstairs and has no knowledge of where she is. This is a tad dangerous...

By the time I got her "calm", her eyes have stopped rolling back and she is asleep in my arms.

Back upstairs, she snuggled in and had a few bits of conversation. Phew.

It breaks my heart to see and hear her go through this, and all I can do is hug her close until it passes. She is sleeping soundly beside me with Reggie and Stanley on her feet and I can hear the post-cry sniffly breathing...

****

Still, with all the insomnia and chaos, I wouldn't trade this for the world.

****

OK...I really need to sleep.

Well, uh, OK, let me see!

The other day Mimi asked, out of the blue:

"Mama...how did Daddy put the baby inside your tummy?"

So go already!

My wish for today:

Every person/American that is "threatening" to move to an island or whatever because of a health care bill that while not perfect, will help so many, MOVE ALREADY!

Stop making idle threats and getting our hopes up!!!!!!!!! A country without some of you would definitely be better!

But please do not move to Canada--they don't want you--trust me!!!!

Rainy Sunday Randomness

The other day, Mimi was laying on her "Diego" pillow. I reminded her that she used to love Diego, even more than Dora. I asked her if it was that she likes all the boys we have...

She answered, "It's because he has eyes and hair like me."

****

George: "Mama, may I tell you something?

Me: "Sure--what is it?"

George: "I love you..."

****

And, some puppy love:

First Day of Spring!

I believe this YouTube clip says it all--four out six Montagues were in the pool today!! Obviously not Vinny or Minna! Mimi went in after Dad, then George (SURPRISE!!!), followed by Tan-Tan (Vinny's name for Natan!).

Enjoy the clip--Karen L, this one's for you and may I say, "Good times!"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cUNNKzj_Nc

Binky, My Binky!

(New pics uploaded in Picasa!)

Here is Vinny's first official addiction caught on camera (and yes, he is wearing a hair clip)

Reactions

Have decided to stop trying to make nice with those who bring stress to my life. It's not worth it. I am keeping only kind people around...and the ones who can accept us (this family) the way we are--bumps and all! My Aunt Gail & Uncle Neb always had a sign, and may still, hanging in their house. "Accept us as we are, or leave us be!" Of course they also had one in their bathroom that said, "If you sprinkle when you tinkle, be a sweetie, wipe the seatie!!" Both are profound in their own way!

****

(The following is not directed at any one in particular--just observations based on people's reactions to Natan's diagnosis)

Several folks have already told us that they think Natan's doctor is wrong and that he is fine. I suppose I kind of understand the need for denial. It's just that we do not have that luxury, nor do we think this is such a terrible thing. This is our new journey with Natan. We can't NOT take this journey with him--he needs help, he gets help. We just need to redefine our goals and dreams of what we thought his life would be like, and embrace this new path. Denying this is going to hurt him, and Jason and I cannot keep defending and explaining his diagnosis. I am amazed at how many people are quick to say they don't believe the doctor is right. Part of me wonders if it's because they cannot accept him this way. I hope not...for his sake.

Letter No. 1 (I'm sure they'll be more!)

(Blog contains language that some find offensive--don't read it if you're going to be offended!)

Dear Henry County Schools,

I would like to apologize in advance for some words that you will likely be hearing in the new school year this Fall from Mimi and George. You see, I'm Canadian. (Isn't that a universal excuse--blame Canada!!!!). My favorite vacation spot was/is the Mundle's Farm in Nova Scotia--one of the many reasons was that we got to say "shit" for 2 weeks--they didn't say "manure". The "sh" word was acceptable EVEN BY THE KIDS!!!!! Of course, upon returning home to Ontario, that didn't fly. Manure became mundane manure again...and you would have to have a "BM" even!!!!!! No wonder I was always constipated! BM, mother--really??!! We couldn't even say "poop", I recall.

The day of my Grandpa's funeral, our dog Hazel Mary ran away and I heard my dad drop the F-Bomb for the first time! I remember--he was in my parent's bedroom in his tightie-whities and black dress socks (a uniform of sorts!) and he just let it rip--twice in a row! I remember this sick, guilty feeling of awe and thought, "WOW!" I knew then the power of words...but when I tried to use it later I got in a lot of trouble.

Then I moved here. To the South. The land of: "Dad-Gummit."I also hear, but am sure it's not exclusively Southern: "Oh, Snap", "Oh, Father", and now I am hearing "Frickin'" from many young kids. Seriously?? This is what passes for making an exclamatory point?

In the past five years, being the sole educator of Mimi and George, I admit, there are times when words have slipped out. We hit a dog three and a half years ago while driving and I put two words together that I have never put together in my life. AND THEY REPEATED IT MONTHS LATER!!! What are the chances!

I do not drop f-bombs (I do have some standards). I also refuse to say Dad-Gummit. if you're going to say it, make it stick. How else will my kids know when Mommy is mad and not just a little annoyed?

And I found out that Jason has been letting them listen to the musical he is working on at Woodward, "Curtains". Evidently, there is some serious profanity in it. For example, after George and Mimi attacked and killed a "flaumet" (hornet) the other day, George, after flushing the dead flaumet down the toilet said, as he was leaving the bathroom, "Son of a bitch. I killed it." He said it quietly and without any knowledge of what he was saying. If he had sung it (Jason said it's in the musical they've been listening to), I might not have written this letter, but now I am worried. Not that their language will offend--don't really care. But I worry they will miss recess every day for some slip up.

In my defense, I don't let them use the words "stupid," "gay," "retard," or "shut up." I find those more offensive than anything else. Parents who allow this should be ashamed.

They do say "Oh my god." And since religion has no place in public school, you can't stop them. It's not cursing. It's not taking anything in vain. People who call themselves religious types but are mean to people--they're taking care of the "in vain" part.

They do not know that "jackass" is considered a bad word--they think it's an appropriate word for a person who texts/talks on his/her cell while driving!!!!

They will call smokers stupid (the one allowance for the word), because well, smoking is stupid.

And I can promise you one thing: You will never hear a racist comment from my kids. They will love you and hug you and do everything they can to please you, they'll just add a little spice occasionally. Please be forgiving and understanding.

So, teachers, I hope you will be able to get past the imperfections of my children (the direct reflection and imperfections of their parents!!!!).

It's not their fault.

They're half-Canadian.

Sincerely yours,

A. Monatgue

(Have I mentioned lately that if you don't like what I write, don't read??!!)

True Kindness

Some people talk the talk, but they ultimately do not put their words into actions.

Some people are into the action and just do it without all the talk.

Some people do "good acts" and have to have a plaque announcing what they've done.

And sometimes, Random Acts of kindness DO happen without fanfare.

A few weeks ago, Jason brought home an unexpected card with money inside. It was a random donation from a family that knows Jason, to be used as we see fit.

If it's OK with the family, I have decided to send it to the Layla House project--home to babies and kids living with HIV and AIDS in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Jason has assured me they will likely be down with that--he also said she could be my "mind twin"!!! You mean there is another like-minded person out there?? I am not alone????

To that family...thank you. In the midst of your own busy life, you took the time to show kindness.

Thank you...

Dear Carly & Samantha,

THANK YOU!! I just got your messages on Facebook. I have cooled down--I always do!!

I just wanted to publicly say that there are at least two awesome teens out there who are going to change the world someday...they changed mine tonight and gave me hope!

Love you, girls!!!!!

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...

****

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!

****

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

****

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.

****

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.

****

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!

****

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...

****

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!

****

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.

****

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!

*******

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

*******

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!!

*******

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

*******

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.

*******

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!!!!!

*******

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...

*******

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!

***********

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!

**********

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...

*********

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!

*********

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...

*********

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."

******

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...

******

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!

******

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!!!!!

******

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...

****

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!!!!

****

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...

****

G'night...

Hugely random stuff!

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

*******

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.

*******

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

*******

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.

*********

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!"