Waiting for Eliza

Saddle Pad, Saddle and Reins

2012-02-15T21:07:00.000-05:00

Practicing, no hands...balance control

Arms out, look at Monty's ears.

After my exercises, and two around the worlds, I got to hold the reins in front of the saddle pad.

Hold the reins where it is braided.

Look at me, Ms. Jen!

Up on my two point, trotting!

Walking my horse back to the barn for the apples and brushing! My Monty loves apples and me of course! I brought apples for every horse for Valentine's Day because I love them.

Feeding Monty his apple!

Carrying the bridle to put away from my days lessons! The new words I learned this week and last week are: saddle pad, saddle, reins, girth, stir ups and horse shoe!

Lovin' the my Valentine's balloons from my Daddy!

Happy Valentine's Day from our family to yours!

Year of the Dragon!

2012-01-23T21:24:00.002-05:00

This year we have been blessed to be invited to two Chinese New Year parties! They are great for Eliza and we love meeting and spending time with all of the families in our area. My camera was acting up so I did not get many pics but I think my friend may have gotten some better ones that I will post when I borrow them from her.

Here is our little Dragon!!!!

We love our little dragon!

Our 3rd Chinese New Years! Love you, Eliza Hayden Li!!!!

Two Years as a Family of 3!

2012-01-18T21:59:00.000-05:00

Happy Family Day!!!! We love our Martinelli's sparkling Apple Juice to Cheers! Thanks to my hubby for a yummy Eastern Shore dinner!

Our trip to North Carolina!

2012-01-15T21:52:00.000-05:00

At a North Carolina park!

Eliza and her Uncle Allen and their walking stick!

Aunt Cathy and Uncle Allen being pushed by Eliza.

Eliza is rockin' her new headband from her Aunt Cathy.

Uncle Allen rockin' the ladybug headband from Aunt Cathy!

Thank you Aunt Cathy and Uncle Allen for my super neat new clothes!

Sticker time!

Eliza loves her daddy!

2012-01-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Eliza loves playing with her Daddy when he gets home early enough to spend evening time with her. She also likes to help Mommy. Last night, I needed a few things and she talked me into blue fingernail polish. Let me just say as a new mom, pink is a lot easier then blue. Though, currently blue is Eliza's favorite color.

Swimming

2012-01-02T16:26:00.003-05:00

Today we went swimming with Aunt Abbie and Maragret. You have such a good time, you even let me put your whole face in the water twice. You are swimming around like a big girl with the assistance of the life jacket. You are trying different foods. Today was your second time having a cheese soft taco, you ate most of it. You are starting to trust that Mommy will be right there and play with others. I wish I got to take a picture of you today. So here is a cute one of you at 11 months old in the bathtub brushing your teeth (you may have had two teeth at the time.)

New Years Day!

2012-01-01T18:52:00.000-05:00

Shew...as promised the little camera was in the car. We convinced Daddy to take us to the Washington DC Zoo. Yesterday we read about Pandas eating bamboo and saw a "Wond*r P*ts" episode on Pandas so to the zoo we went. It was a perfect day. It was about 65 degrees which is unheard of for middle of winter DC weather. So here of pictures from New Years Day 2012 and from last night getting ready for the party and at the party.

Let's go to a party Daddy!

She has been carrying her purse around with her everywhere inside are her "Yip Sticks" aka Lip Sticks. Princess chapsticks that she loves.

Eliza with her beloved lolli. Thanks Am!

The crew!

Her and her best buddy since she came home, Zack!!!!! She LOVES this boy!

Pushing her buddy, Voilet around with her favorite balloon. She has an eclectic stash in the purse, balloon from Nordstrom Kids shoes, Yipsticks, and some convenient candies, mostly "M's" as she calls them.

Decked out for the zoo, in her best Momma Tom wear. We are trying to start a shower cap fad.

First Sight at the Zoo

LOVE THIS GIRL!!!!

We waited at the Panda Palace. They were in seperate cages, pacing back and forth trying to get it to feed. Then Mai Xiang (the girl Panda) surprised us as we were leaving. She came towards us, as if to say, Eliza I know you are a Marching Panda too. I know you waited a long time to see me (six plus years) she gave us a show. Climbing up the tree, the tree swaying back and forth, it was amazing to see her get her 100 pound plus body up there.

Sit in the Y.

Make it to the next level.

Then scurry back down. As if to say, Eliza you were worth the wait so here is your show. Richard and I were inspired. So for all you Marching Pandas out there. All you girls (and boys) are WORTH THE WAIT!!!!

We got to see all of the animals (ani mools as Eliza says) that she was asking to see.

Brushing her teeth in 2012!

2012-01-01T09:25:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year!!!!

2011-12-31T22:48:00.003-05:00

This is our 2nd New Year with our little Eliza. As I write this post, she is smoothering her Daddy with kisses. She just finished telling her Daddy that she is giving him lots of kisses and they are fun. " She just made her kisses and they are fun." Her Daddy had a 78 hour work week because it is one of the car industries busiest weeks of the year. She has not seen her Daddy a lot so she told him when he came home. "Daddy, I love you all day." That is her version of I LOVE you the most. It is too stinkin' cute. She has gotten out of the habit of sleeping in her own bed and now sleeps with us. She tries very hard every night to entertain her father with singing, finger plays and playing a game called "Kisses or Tickles." She asks her Daddy what he wants... then she gives it to him. He obliges by laughing. She is so sweet, when he says kisses, she grabs his face, and turns his head and kisses him on his "cheekys" as she calls them.

Our friend Amber invited us over for a New Years with the kiddos. It is great because the kids get to play and we can talk and hang out. Thanks to great friends for hosting a family friendly New Years when we can still be safe at home before midnight and off the roads.

As I end this post for the night, I think of my cousin Katie who tragically lost her life to a careless mistake that her boyfriend made. My cousins Larry, Laura and Cody have incredible strength. As I can not fully grasp the pain and loss that they feel, I do know that they would rather have Katie with them. As many people celebrate the New Year, make plans for the next year, and make resolutions my cousins remember her and spend time as a family celebrating her life. Her smile was infectious, her sweet nature would light up a room. As I have for the last few years, I will light a candle tonight in memory not of her death but rather the light that she brought to many though her life.

( Richard thinks he left the camera in the car from tonights earlier pics but, this is her at 11:00 pm at night, playing with her post while her Daddy tries to sleep.)

Happy New Year!!!!

Additional Winter pics to keep Uncle Theo from being homesick! :)

2011-12-27T22:58:00.001-05:00

Uncle Theo...here are some pics that I forgot to post from this winter. Hope this will keep you busy when you are down and need a pick me up!

Chocolate Town Show!

Remember this from Japan! They now have one in Tyson's Corner. She LOVED it! Conveyor Sushi!

One of Christmas Elf''s many adventurers for 2011! She named her Elf "Christmas." Like mother like daughter.

One of her and Opa's many adventurer's to the train gardens all over Maryland

Reading with her Grammie on Christmas Eve 2011

Love her some Yi Yi

This girl loves her 'pops'.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T22:07:00.001-05:00

We did not get very many shots but we enjoyed are time with our family! We did not get any shots of Yi Yi or Uncle Jason but I can assure you they were there and she loved on them just as much as everyone else. Love you Yi Yi and Uncle Jas!!!!! Wish you were here Uncle Theo and Aunt Shel !!! Thanks for protecting our country and helping to keep us free! Praying for you!!!!! Here are some of the pics...

Introducing cousin Sid...

2011-12-27T21:54:00.001-05:00

Eliza had the opportunity about one month ago to meet her cousin Sid when they came over for Chili dinner and she FEEL IN LOVE!!!! (and so did we!!!! :))

Let's Rock and Roll... It's time for School

2011-12-21T21:36:00.000-05:00

This week I have been trying to help Richard out with taking Eliza to daycare since I am technically off, though I am trying to get the house ready for Christmas. As we are walking out the door, she sounded like a little Richard, "Mommy, let's Rock n' Roll...It's time to go to school." Pictures from the school caroling with Richard tomorrow... stay tuned...

Merry Madagascar Ice with the cousins!

2011-12-20T21:37:00.007-05:00

9th grade- Rachel, 7th Grade Sarah, 5th Grade Claire and Eliza 2 1/2 years old

The Gang with Grammie and Granddad 2012~ Eliza's second annual trip to D.C. Ice!

Can you believe all of these images are made out of ice?

Ice sleds were even suspended from the ceiling!!!

Up close... more colored ice!

Day Two of making gingerbread. She loved making gingerbread with her cousins at the Gaylord National Resort

Eliza's finish product!

Peanuts (R-rated)

2011-12-11T21:33:00.007-05:00

(Here is a picture of the cuteness from last weekend before the funny post! )

Tonight after coming home from the train garden and completing last minute errands. Richard ran into go to the bathroom from our hour and 1/2 drive home. Eliza has been very intrigued with the difference between boys and girls since she started potty training. She walked in on her daddy peeing and said in the sweetest voice, "Oh... daddy, you have a PEANUT." He started belly laughing. She came out to me and said, "Daddy has a peanut and I have a giana." So, there it is folks, anatomy according to Eliza.

Eliza's first encounter with Santa up close... 2011

2011-12-11T21:18:00.005-05:00

At the end she even gave Santa a hug.

Eliza did not ask Santa for anything for Christmas instead she was shy and wanted to meet "the man." A couple of weeks ago, Richard asked Eliza what she wanted for Christmas? Eliza responded, "A Birthday." Richard said, "O.K. baby, you can ask for more than one thing, is there anything else you want." Eliza's response, "Yes Daddy, a cake!" Perfect. One day I hope her response is peace, love, happiness but until that time and after that time, Let's celebrate Jesus's birth with a birthday and a cake. Such insight at 2 (or...coincidence but I vote for insight) Hee!

Today we went to the Kent Narrows train garden. It was an interactive train garden where boys and girls, young and old could look at trains and push different buttons. The plus was Santa was there also. We did not have to wait in lines so it was perfect.

2 years ago today...

2011-12-02T20:29:00.003-05:00

Two years ago today our lives were changed forever. We got to see our daughters face for the first time. She was everything that we could have dreamed of and more. She has changed our lives forever! We love you little Eliza Hayden-Li Kimball

Thanksgiving 2011..Uncle Theo, Aunt Shel and Uncle Jason's homecoming

2011-11-25T22:10:00.000-05:00

Eliza loves her Aunt and Uncle! Though again, no pics of Uncle Jason... sneaky slippery Uncle!!!! We will get a pic of you soon!!!! :)

She LOVES her Aunt Barbara (insert Chinese New York accent! ) from Missy Li!

See Eliza hand and body on Aunt Shel's back... Eliza was definitely in on the action!

A little Christmas Preview

2011-11-17T21:18:00.005-05:00

A 66 degree fall day at Londonderry with her love of her life.

Eliza and her YiYi!!!! She loves this man and he adores her. I think he is pretty special too! Love you dad Kimball!!!! BTW...she is holding little acorns in her hand. She is a natural biologist in the making like her YiYi.

Our 2nd Christmas photo as a family of three!!!!

We had our Christmas photoshoot and boy, can RITCH PHOTOGRAPHY make some ugly old people look semi-human with one super cute two year old. I know many of you will be getting the same pic on your Christmas card but I could not resist having this on her blog for her to keep.

Again, anyone in the MD, DC area check out Ritch photography. His pics are awesome. He is super friendly and works well with a worn out mom and one fiesty, spicy, clingy two year old(with nothing but super sweet things to say about her). Thanks Jim!!!! We really appreciate you capturing the essence of our family.

Halloween and more fun pics

2011-11-04T19:59:00.006-04:00

These pictures are in no particular order. This is the first COLD day of fall. Our first trip of many to the Pumpkin Patch. She loved it and I will be getting a season pass next year!

Her and her munchkin on the pumpkin.

The first two trips she was more excited to pick the pumpkins then she was to play on all the cool fall toys.

A, M and Eliza the best of friends. M was such a big help pulling her in the little red wagon and all three of them saying "Trick or Treat" as they got their goodies. Eliza said it at every house. SHe did about ten houses with the help of her god sister M.

School Parade. ELiza is hiding behind the airplane.

Our little princess and the hairbows the Omi and I stayed up late making. It had two pumpkins that jingled. She loved it.

More parade pics... she was stunned that I was there and not sure about being inthe parade.

My favorite picture of the season!!! Our little pumpkin and her daddy!

Our little artist always picking out the artist pumpkins. She liked the gourds.

Fall Fun 2011

2011-10-31T21:19:00.008-04:00

Gymnastics

2011-10-04T20:40:00.008-04:00

A stamp for a gymnastics session well done! (never mind the bribing from Mommy, Aunt Jen and that Daddy and Yi Yi were watching the entire time.)

Eliza's favorite part of "nastics" class. Look at the form for her tuck jumps! Ha!

Coach Gabby teaching her "in / out" jumps!

Kadence rockin' the tuck jump.

On high uneven bars learning the basic dismount.

Learning to climb over the bars.

Great form on the toe touches, Missy Li!

Going to the next station!

Learning her back walk over! First time ever!

Balance beam work!

Daddy and YeYe came to my gymnastics class tonight. I will work for my Daddy and a lollipop at age 2.

My Girls

2011-09-18T16:11:00.004-04:00

Here are some random pics from the summer when mom and dad took care of Eliza for our 10 year anniversary! Boy, I love these two girls! :)

Oktober festival/Autumn Moon Festival

2011-09-18T00:54:00.002-04:00

We missed the Autumn Moon festival this year but next year, it falls on September 30th, 2012 so hopefully we will be making laterns, lighting the laterns and eating moon cakes. This year, went to the largest North Eastern Oktober fest. Eliza LOVED it. She loved the music and the bier garden (soda for her) and yummy semi sweet apple pie and plum cake. She wore her Raven cheerleader outfit for a portion of the day. A little five year old girl came up to me and asked, "Is she a real Raven's cheerleader?" It was super cute. Yes, she is is OUR Raven's cheerleader. Hoepfully, I will get a good picture of it soon.

Tonight I think of her China mommy. Your little girl *Our* is so loved. She is my world. I found this and I just you (China mommy) to know..."Today I kissed an angel, I knew it from the start; The first time our eyes met, I gave away (Eliza) my heart. Today I kissed an angel, This angel child of mine; Though not of my creation, My child by God's design. Today I kissed an angel, My heart is dancing wild; A family by a miracle, Blessed by this angel child."

I love you, my kind, smart and important 27 month old little angel.

Eliza's first Hurricane~ Hurricane Irene

2011-08-28T12:59:00.006-04:00

This week on Eliza's mommy's birthday we had a Earthquake in Mineral, VA. Here in Easton we felt the after shock of 4.9 but the earthquake was actually a 5.9. Then on Saturday and Sunday Hurrican Irene came to visit... here is some of the aftermath, puddle stopping... (in rain boots, no picture, fixing a car light bulb, cleaning messes from three scared dogs, and trees down). But... we are safe and even had an aftermath tea party with Eliza made chocolate chip cookies and chocolate milk. Eliza thinks it is kindof fun because Daddy has been home for two days straight. She is lovin' her daddy time!

brawh....

2011-08-24T20:16:00.003-04:00

I could not make this stuff up folks....my daughter comes into the guest bedroom tonight while I am typing on the computer in hot pink bloomers and a bolero jacket saying, "Look at my brawh (bra), Mommy," Richard and I laugh hysterically, go and get the camera. Meanwhile, Eliza is saying, "Get, CHessie....Tell, Chessie....Chessie, look at my brawh..." Me, " Eliza, Chessie thinks it is nice." Eliza, "Chessie, me says look at my brawl." Where does this girl, get this stuff from? Here is Eliza in her self proclaimed BRAWH.

We have ourselves a cute little Chinese cowgirl!

2011-08-15T21:25:00.007-04:00

Hang on to your hats partner, there is a new sheriff in town! She is super sweet, so ya'll grab some sweet tea, and come and sit for awhile. You are about to see some super sweetness!

This One's for the Girls, who never had a broken heart, who wished upon a shooting star! Yes, this one's for all the girls! ~Martina McBride

Sitting on her southern stoop!

An all American Girl!

Pure Love!

Umbrella!

I'm officially TWO!!!!

Dancing with Tim McGraw, O.K. Daddy! Love him more anyway!

Get Your Sparkle On! (courtsey of Barbie!)

Ballerina cowgirl (Eliza's invention)

Under my umbrella!

Pure Country!

Hats off!

Enough Said!

1st two weeks of school

2011-08-12T18:14:00.002-04:00

Eliza loves school. She had a hard transition the first two weeks. I actually bribed her with a ring pop if she did not cry when he went in to see Ms. Linda. We have had lots of nightly conversations about how Mommy will always come and pick her up at the end of each day. She has had two successes this week. She is potty trained during the day and she has successfully transitioned without crying to being dropped off.

Not only has she had fun the last two Fridays at water days but she has come home with some amazing refridge art. She made a picture of watermelon, ice cream and a doggie. She was so proud. When I asked her if I could hang it on the refridge, she said, "Of torse." Her little accent is so cute. I can tell she is growing up because she does not say "Move" anymore for movie and she now says TV. She now calls Daddy sometimes Dad.

We did have an incident this week at school, where she was stung by a bee. She is on medicine now and had a trip to the emergency care.

All over all she had a successful first two weeks of school. Mommy and Daddy are beaming and being schooled also in what she needs at this stage of her little life.

Dancing for his glory!

2011-07-27T21:34:00.005-04:00

(Picture taken in Colorado, at the Childern's Museum, she loved it. We did not get a picture today of her dancing with Grammie, Daddy and Granddad.)

Today, we had the rare opportunity becuase of Richard's work schedule to take a Wednesday, as a family, and go and see his parents. We live about three hours aprt and let me tell you, when I say three hours it is not the over the river and through the woods driving that you envision going to Grammie's house but rather I 95 interstate bumper to bumper, teeth turning, stahls, cutting drivers off, praying that this time will not be the time that you will be in an accident kind of driving. Once turning into Lansdowne... (awwww... the difference) the tightly manicured lawns and the globe (tee hee, until today thought was stupid.... until my dear hubby said, Leisure World, get it!!! I think my dear MIL has only lived there five years for me to finally ,get it!!! Richard knew he really married a blonde.) Shew... but the visit even though short was WELL worth it.

Grammie and Granddad had the Jersey Boy soundtrack playing (the beloved 50's and motown music that I adore and was brought up on.) Little Ms. Eliza was dancing her heart out. Carefully watching the professional steps of Grammie and Granddad and trying to imitate them. It was too stinkin' cute. All I could think of was, "Thanks be to God, for little Eliza dancing for God's glory and for me to be thankful for the most precious gift of all, her!" You constantly amaze me everyday sweet precious "brown eyed girl" as you told daddy, Grammie and Granddad today.

Side note... Today, she rode a couple of mechanical ponies in the outdoor air mall. She was too cute. Daddy said, "That is enough. Daddy does not have anymore money." Eliza's quick witted two year old response, "Uhhhh huh daddy, in your pocket." Grammie and Mommy just laughed.

Every red car you saw today at Leissure World, you kept asking Daddy and Mommy if it was "Grammie's car???" Your vocabulary and your thought process impresses everyone we come in contact with.

Continue to love the Lord and dance for his Glory little one!

Grand Lake, CO!

2011-07-24T16:21:00.014-04:00

For our vacation this year, we went to see one of Mommy's best friends get married. You thought she looked like a princess and wanted to dance with the princess, Mommy and Daddy all night. You were such a trooper. You made a good friend (15 years old, one of Mommy's high school friends, Corey's son, Josh). You played with Nadin's flower girls and even with the bride and groom, Nadin and Matt. You are such a good traveler. You did not complain once on the airplane and were excited to "ride the airplane, high in the sky." You used your polite manners the entire trip, all of Nadin's family was impressed ,as were Mommy and Daddy.

Making Memories

2011-07-15T23:37:00.002-04:00

Tonight we went with Eliza's daddy to the Tractor Pull. Eliza and my first tractor pull. It was not my kind of fun but Eliza and I could both admire the reason and the experience. We got to ride in a Preston truck and be a part of the opening ceremonies and throw stuffed animal frogs into the audience. Eliza got to ride on the "caboose" that a tractor pulled. The best time about the day was it was and is family time. Then we headed over to the local fair. (No pictures of the fair this year). There was not many rides for her again this year. In fact, there were not many rides at all. I remembered last year thinking that she would be "old enough" this year for the rides but I still do not think that she is ready for them. She is a little gun shy of rides since the dragon roller coaster on the forth of July. The point here is folks, that we are starting to make traditions and memories. It is great fun and I am enjoying this aspect of parenting.

Eliza completed her first week of swim lessons. Though lots of complaining the first two days, she was a champ on the next two days. Her teacher, Ms. Ellie recommended on her certificate of completion, "one more infant and toddler class then she will be able to move up to level one." I do thin the swim lessons have helped her because tonight while bathing she allowed us and several times asked us to pour water on her head.

This week Eliza also had her second horse back riding lesson. She did amazing and the girls that we at the week long camp were arguing to help take her on her individual lesson. It was too stinkin' cute. (Side note... we even saw her horse back instructor, Ms. Jen, at the tractor pull and she yelled out to Ms. Eliza as we were completing the opening ceremonies.

Now, to pack for Colorado for Nadin's wedding . We are looking forward to our week vacation as a family.

Best Grandparents in the World!!!!

2011-07-11T20:19:00.009-04:00

Not sure if I posted Inspector Gadget last time when I had mom and dad's camera.

Opa and Eliza bird watchers. Smithsonian, Washington DC

Loved the animals but did not want to leave Omi and Opa's arms. Love that girl.

My little gardner that Aunt Abbie and Oma are making her into.

She loves animals.

She loved Dinky the turtle.

She loved the bean bag chair. She loves books and is so attentive even at the age of 2!

She loved her mulberries and nuts from Omi and Opa's yard.

My beach girl.

First swimming lesson!

Have I ever mentioned that Eliza has the best grandparents in the world? All of her grandparents are so great to her in so many different ways with different talents. I am worki nthis week and so my mom and dad have taken over the daily grind duties. Eliza is in swim lessons and being a typical two year old; showing Omi all of her tricks then when it is time for her lessons pretends like she does not know any of it. Dad and Mom have taken some great pictures that I would like to share.

Summer Fun with Omi and Opa!

2011-07-09T21:41:00.005-04:00

Inspector Gadget!

Turtle hunting on Omi's pier!

Now, I sleep on the big big bed. She started on July 5, 2011. This was Opa and Daddy taking down the crib and putting up the big girl bed. Thanks Omi and Opa!

Eliza making Opa birthday cake. Thanks Grammie and Granddad for the table and chairs.

Eliza being efficient with her trips to her kitchen!

Eliza and Lucky at Omi and Opi's beach!

Taking Eliza to where our life as a married couple began...

2011-07-06T00:00:00.006-04:00

The place where it all began. Mom had them remove a dead palm tree before the ceremony. The front of the reception hall. Cocktail hour and Ventian hour were downstairs and the dancing and dinner was upstairs. Uncle Paul said the prime rib was too raw. In hind sight, we should have done petit filets.

The wedding room. We spent the night hopping from one guest room to the next visiting with friends and family. It was a blast. I would not have had my wedding night any other way.

The entrance where dad and I walked down. I was honored that my dad walked me down and aisle and slowed me down to "I want somebody to share..share the rest of my life." Jas and Theo handed me flowers to complete my bouquet. Loved having them and love them so very much!

The bare wedding graden but wanted you to see the fantastic views. Allen had the boat "gased up" for Richard but he decided to stay. Hee! Tonight Richard said to me...do you think men who are married live a shorter life span. I said, "Probably, if they are married to me!" ;)

Our wedding and resort and were we will spend our 10th anniversary like our first wedding night only this time with the love of our lives, little Ms. Eliza, or as Aunt Marge likes to say, Missie Li.

10 years ago on July 7th we were married. Richard is taking Eliza and I back to that very spot. It will be fun to spend the day as a family. :)

Happy 2nd ...4th of July!

2011-07-04T23:52:00.002-04:00

Dear Eliza,

We had awonderful day on July 2nd watching an Old Tyme Parade with Omi and Opa in St. Michael's. You love parade's. Then we went to the maritime musuem for bi band music and fire workds. You love them telling daddy the colors. At first all of them were blue but then daddy starting saying the differet colors to you and then you started telling daddy the colors. The olders kids in the background were saying "bigger...bigger." SO you started chanting with them bigger...bigger.

Tonight we took you to the Easton carnival. You liked the merry go round and went on your first airplan over and over again. You wanted to ride the dragon roller coaster but it scared you and all you wanted was your daddy. We did not make it for the fireworks. Instead went to get family icecream and watch the NYC fireworks at home. Now, you are sleeping next to me.

You moved to the big toddler bed yesterday and did a great job.

You are the firework in our life little one!

Love you,

Mommy

It is bee-autiful being 2!!!

2011-06-21T22:40:00.014-04:00

Our baby Eliza is offically 2! We had a small grandparents, great grandparent and Great Aunt buzzing birthday party! She loved it! She loved them singing happy birthday to her! She played with her cousin Sarah, who is in the 7th grade but did a wonderful job with her. She had her favorite ~ cravs, of torse (of course) as she would say and yummy cake.

Today was her acutal birthday. We celebrated by fishing on the boat with her Barbie fishing rod that her Daddy got her and we immediately lost the sparkle fish in true Tom/Kimball fishing style. It was the first time on the boat that she remembers and now she is totally into boats everywhere we go she points the boat out asking if it is Daddy's boat. Then this evening she had her first horseback lessonk which she loved and wanted to stay on signing and saying more...more. Monte was the name of her horse. She cried when we left with big huge two year old tears that broke my heart. Then we finished off the evening with the P parade and a carnival with lots of rides. She had a great birthday. The weather was fantastic in the low 80's. Boy, do we just LOVE this girl!!!!

Boone and Blowing Rock~ Our Ashley's graduation

2011-05-22T17:46:00.008-04:00

My Mother's Day present! The Chetola at the Bob Timberlake Inn!

Amazing! Eliza loved the geese and the baby geese.

Our View from our room!

The cool mountain air was refreshing!

Spring Time....

2011-05-22T17:10:00.007-04:00

My girl loves her ribs like her Uncle Theo.

This is our girl always on the run and recently in her "rina" dress. She loves dressing up in dresses and them her ballerina or "rina" dresses.

Watering her double knock out roses that she picked out from Ed Collins greenhouse. Hopefully, she will get a green thumb like her Omi.

Her making "tea" for her "Me Me" aka Chessie, mommy and daddy.

Our little bumble bee. I asked her what kind of cake she wanted for her birthday. She is really into ballerina's and princesses so naturally I said "Eliza, would you like a rina cake." She said, "Noooo, mommy." Eliza, would you like a princesses cake? "Noooo, mommy." What kind of cake would you like? "A bug cake mommy." Eliza you had a ladybug cake last year. "Hmmm... putting her finger up to her lip....A bumble bee cake." So it is.... she will have a bumble bee cake for her second birthday. It will bee buzzing ....fantastic. I know, I am a bit corny!!!!

Earth Day!

2011-04-22T13:00:00.002-04:00

Today was my first day of break with my little girl. She started off the morning with giving me lots of kisses. She loves teasing her daddy in the morning before he goes to work and gives me all of the back rubs and kisses. I think it is hard for him to leave in the morning when we are still be lazy in bed watching Oswald on N*ck Jr. Today is Earth day, she is her Omi's daughter. She has a green thumb nd loves flowers and gardening. Both her Grammie and I are not good at gardening and do not enjoy it. But, I am trying ot be a good mom and not pose biases on my daughter so we went to the garden center and picked out some hearty annuals and one perennial for Earth day. She picked out wave petunias, a variety pack that was already designed from the design center, trailing petunias and double knock out roses (they look more like traditional roses so Eliza will like them). She picked out "Pink." Now, when someone comes to our houses they know we have a little girl because all the flowers are pink. Not that I mind...I wanted my whole life for this little girl to help me pick out flowers. She is truly becoming my best friend. I love playing with her, watching her learn and grow.

On a side note... I have also waited my entire life to have my fridge decorated. It is too cute. Now, I have a bunny and an Easter Egg decorated by Eliza from the help of Mrs. Mel.

Praise to God...my mom, dad and little brother are safely back in the US. Theo finally gets to spend time with his seven month new bride. I am so glad that mom and dad got to experience my brother's job. They are so very proud of him and I know that they wish that they lived closer.

Two more days til Easter! :)

Week with Grammie!

2011-04-14T21:10:00.006-04:00

Playing with Grammie in her house, at Busybodies, at Port Discovery and shopping! Who could ask for a better week when Mommy was away! :) There is a side picture of Mr. Andy her gymnastics/movement coach. She loves her Mr. Andy!

Thank you Omi

2011-04-14T20:45:00.003-04:00

Thank you OMI! I loved my Easter dress so much I wore it to bed. As soon, as I saw it I said "Ohhh.............rina (ballerina) {She is doing her ballerina moves in a couple of the pics!}

Thankful for my family...

2011-04-12T16:59:00.007-04:00

I am on a four day training for my school. I love my job.

No, I am not being facetious.

I really do love my job. I could not think of a better job to have, interact with kiddos and adults and getting to help them solve their problems on a daily basis. Yup, I get paid for that. But... with this four day training. I miss my family.

Yup, I miss them. I just got off the phone with Richard. My mother in law aka Grammie came to help with Eliza. Richard went to facilitate the pick up from daycare. Every year Grammie and Granddad go to Mexico so she has not seen Grammie in about four months. Eliza is AMAZING. She not only remembered Grammie but also called her by name. That is an awesome memory for a 22 month old. (Just alittle bit of bragging rights! hee!) According to Richard, they played house and ball in the yard and got reacquainted with one another yesterday and today they were going shopping. Eliza is so lucky to have great grandparents that love her. I am so happy that each grandparent has a relationship with their granddaughter outside of the relationship that we have with our parents and in laws. I think that is healthy not only for her but for them.

Growing up, I did not have the best grandparent experience. Not, that I do not love them or that they did not give it their all; but, it was not the experience that a mother would hope for her child to have with their parents. At least it is the relationship that my parents have fostered in our lives. I think my parents have done a nice job of having a great relationship with myself and my brothers.

I, happily, can not say that for Eliza. Eliza has the BEST grandparents. I think that her grandparents are a core of her being. I think that each one of them has insight and knowledge of different aspects of life that they will be able to instill in her and to help her grow. Her grandparents have a skill set that I will never have such as sewing and domestication that I will not be able to help her with. Yet, with another grandparent will be able to show her and expose her to different shows and experiences that Eliza's dad and I may not be able to expose her too. She has grandfathers with great experience and education from Ivy league colleges and the love of nature that only a grandfather can help instill in his granddaughter. Eliza's grandparents culture are so very rich exposing her to many different walks of life from Chinese, Jewish, German and the hardworking, perseverance of the American dream. One of my wishes for her is to experience the American dream. Opportunity is important which hopefully, we will be able to initiate an that she will grab a hold of and run.

Day 3 of being without my baby!

Eliza, her daddy and Grammie left me the cutest message on the phone of how much she loves me and misses me. I hope I can save the voice message. They had a great day today, going to Eliza's gymnastics and Port Discovery (Baltimore Children's museum). Yesterday she went shopping with Grammie. She is so LUCKY to have fun times with her Grammie. I am so lucky that I have great parents on both sides on the family that I can leave my precious pride and joy and know that she is well loved and doing things all for her! :)

21 month check up

2011-04-06T19:59:00.002-04:00

Little Ms. Eliza had her 21 month check up today. Her Daddy took her to a business networking meeting where she learned "Shh..." They had a Daddy/ Daughter breakfast and off to the doctor's office for her 21month check up. To date she is 21 pounds 1 ounce. She is two and 1/2 feet tall. She is a healthy little girl. She made monkey noises for Dr. L and made him laugh. She recieved her 18 month shots and will not return to the beginning of August. Growing nice and healthy through Dr. L says she needs to drink more milk. We are on a milk mission. :)

Belly Button

2011-03-30T20:37:00.002-04:00

Tonight Eliza nad I were eating a normal "Mommy/Daughter Dinner" of fish, mix veggies and some lentil soup for little Ms. Eliza and as Eliza was finishing dinner, she pulls up her shirt and exposes her oh... so cute belly button. I don't think much of it at first... she loves to show her Daddy her belly in hopes that he will blow raspberries on it. When her daddy blows on her belly she then laughs uncontrollably. It is super cute and the giggle is that of pure joy and the laugh is infectious. But tonight there was no daddy so her belly was full and and when she has a full belly it sticks out. I look away to nawsh on my dinner and next thing you know she is pulling out her "innie" belly button out. It was on the longer side and it stuck right out. I was kindof grossed out about it at first. Telling ELiza to put it back in. She played with it for a few more seconds. In my disgust (mind you I could never be a nurse), I started hysterically crying, that was a belly button of a child who was taken from her mothers womb. It looked to be hand cut. Then the flood of emotions started running through me. Did her birth mom have to cut the cord in haste? Did she have help cutting the cord? Did she have thoughts of doing something else to her instead of saving her life so she could become my earthly daughter? What risk did her mom have to take to keep her alive? Was her mom able to see her. Folks, let me be honest. That belly button cord does not look like it was cut by a doctor. That cord is the tell tail sign that it probably was not done in a hospital and that her birth mom did not have prenatal care. My little Eliza is a survivior at her young age of 21 months. That cute belly button reminded to be thankful everyday for the blessings of her. So, now I reframe my thinking and that of disgust is now a belly button of courage. I love this little girl more and more every day.

St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T21:13:00.002-04:00

This year we actually made it to the St. Patrick's Day parade. We skipped "Busybodies" which helps with Eliza's fine and gross motor skills along with socialization since the current daycare she is in only has one other child, which is a five year old boy. She had a great time watching the "neighs" as she calls it (horses) and seeing some of the other kiddos from her previous daycare and family friends. She loved eating a "pop" aka lollipop and seeing all of the fun loving people riding around intheir decorated golf carts. I did not actually take the camera with me to the parade since I was doing the single parent thing but... I took a pictures once we got back to the car with her "loot."

Flower Girl Dress ~preview

2011-03-13T21:36:00.003-04:00

This is mostly like our little Eliza yelling "Dadd-----------dyyyyyyyyyyy." She is always on the go.

Ladies and Gentlemen...don't let that cute pose fool you, she can hang out with the best of the boys. :)

This week the flower girl dress came in and Eliza spotted it so we had a modeling expedition.

Getting ready for Summer

2011-03-10T19:02:00.002-05:00

Last night Richard had the great idea to attempt to finish taxes and plan our summer vacations so I could put in for my summer leave.

So, after hours of planning and talking I can finally check off a few things.

Trip schedule and planned to Colorado- check
plan tickets order-check
rental car to Grand Lake secured- check
called Nadin's best friend-check
toddler car seat (not infant...wimper) ordered for Colorado-check
pack n'play ordered for all the hotels in Colorado-check
Seasame Place tickets purchased-check
hotel for Seasame Place ordered-check
breakfast with Elmo procured for a two years olds birthday-check

One tired Momma....Priceless! I would not change my daughters or my friends from all over the world for anything!!! :)

Our 2nd Chinese New Year with our little Egg Roll...

2011-02-26T16:00:00.008-05:00

Little Chinese dumplin'...when she is soaking wet coming out of the shower we like to wrap her up like an eggroll and then she is "our little egg roll." Or... as one of her sets of god parents got her a shirt that reads "Mommy's wish come true."

Here are some of the pics from our Eliza's first Washington DC Chinese New Year and Omi and Opi giving her CNY presents and leche.

4 dresses

2011-02-26T15:01:00.010-05:00

My mom is so talented I LOVE this tag dress. She did an awesome job with the turtle. One of Eliza's favorite animals right now. We searched and searched for a turtle dress but Omi came to the rescue with this AWESOME pillow case dress. I love it and it will be so much fun for her to wear. Mom has an awesome eye and such great attention to detail.

The yellow and white with black bows Eliza will be wearing to Ashley's college graduation in North Carolina in May. Those are her school colors and I have made some yellow and black corker hairbows to match. Let's hope our little Eliza wears a hairbow by them. Hee! :)

These dresses are by far my favorite because they are made with love from her Omi for her little Eliza.

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T19:19:00.002-05:00

Dear Eliza,

Happy second Valentine's Day my sweet only little girl. I wake up every morning and I can not wait to see your face. I can not wait for you to call my name. I am so very thankful to be your earthly Mommy. I love when you are so persistant to hear "Ei, Ei, Oh..." or "Bumblebee. I love it that your face lights up when Daddy or I walk into the room. I love when you say "Hugged Mommy" or "sign the word "more" and follow it up with peas (please). You look like such a big girl in your pig tails or "hair bow" as you call it.

I love how you are a sweet Mommy to your panda bear, cabbage patch baby Joey, and your pink baby rabbit. You share your passie so well with your babies. You shake your little blanket out so that your babies are so comfortable.

On this Valentines Day and on every special occasion I also think of your birth Mommy and hope that she is at peace with her decision (or lack of decision) and pray that she knows that you are well loved.

Happy second Valentines day sweet Love,

Love,
Mommy

hair bow attempts....

2011-01-30T13:45:00.005-05:00

So... I have been reading that people have started to try to save $$$$. And I asked myself, why I want to save money too so I will make some of Eliza's hairbows that I normally buy from Nordstroms. Needless to say, two tired people (Mommy and Omi), 14 hours, $96.00 in material we have only 9 hairbows to show for our efforts. I will explain in a later post how we created these monstoursities.

One Year ago on Jan. 18th she was placed in our arms... This is our family today!

2011-01-13T21:21:00.009-05:00

Boy, how things have changed and we LOVE this girl more than anything!

The first three pictures are exactly of Family Day at the one year mark. Eliza's daddy surprised us with a night at Perry Cabin. We spent the night with room service, playing and bonding. Daddy got his girl "fruit on a stick." Eliza's favorite and of course what girl does not like chocolate covered strawberries. We did not get to many pictures of our night but I did get a chance to bond with my daughter. To help with bonding while we were in China we bathed once we got back to the hotel. One year later Eliza and I took a bath together. All together a different experience, playing and laughing in the tub, with lots of splashing. What a difference a year makes. She co-slept with us last night, she stayed up till 11 pm partying then kept waking up in the middle of the night to play. She loved the hotel and most of all spending time with her Mommy and Daddy.

Thanks for Christy from a "Bushel and a Peck" on posting such a great picture of friends and for her candid story and recount of her experience in China. Although, it was different from mine it was great to know her and call her friend. She is an AWESOME mom with lots of adoption insight and the gift of words to express what we can not say.

To all the other families we traveled with, you are truley AMAZING families! We love watching the girls grow up in loving homes. Til we meet again dear friends!

One year ago today we were headed to China for her...

2011-01-13T21:12:00.004-05:00

Our little family of two and our Chessie dog were about to become a family of three, this very day last year. We were headed to BWI airport. Here is our family before with anticipation with what was to come.

Winter Fun

2011-01-13T20:31:00.005-05:00

We got the chance to see Ice on the Potomac this year. Chinese artist are flown in from China to work around the clock to create an ice winter wonderland. Here are some of the pictures from our fun day.

New Year's Day

2011-01-01T15:04:00.003-05:00

We have had a blast spending New Years Day with Grammie and Granddad. Here are some of the pictures from New Years Day and New Years Eve. Unfortunately the only pic we have from New Years Eve is not that good but trust me.... Good times with great friends there needs to be a repeat next year. :)

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T23:15:00.008-05:00

Eliza also had to get a taste of the Reindeer's carrot and Santa's milk. After all cookies, carrots and milk was Eliza approved... we will have to see if Santa showed up....

She set cookies out for Santa and proceeded to eat them. She is too stinkin' cute.

Reading "Night Before Christmas" on Eliza's first Christmas.

Winter Fest in Ocean City 2010

Eliza at her first Middle School formal dance wearing a black dress with silver piping at the empire waist line and her bracelet that her Grammie got her to acessorize.

I have been feeling really guilty about not posting but we have been so busy. I am so VERY blessed this year.

Christmas was AMAZING! It was fun to see her every night get excited about the lights turning on and the tree lighting up. Candy Canes pretty much sums up Eliza's first Christmas. She is in love with them. She loves em'. She loves the minty taste, she loves the shape. She craves them so much that her mouth started to bleed. We had to take them down and get rid of them. She does not have mollers and the dentist does not like hard candy.

Thank you to her Aunt Cathy and Uncle Allen for the clothes and sit n' spin. I love the personalized Carters saying. She is my granted wish. You are such AWESOME god parents.

Can you say that her grandparents spoiled her rotten. And, shucks... lets not talk about her dad. Let's just say that we opened presents for three days because of her dad and grandparents. Can you say her dad spoils her!!!! She loves him so very much and I kind of think he can be a pretty neat guy too.

I know I had a two week "vacation" from work but between me getting pink eye, Eliza getting sick, our washing machine getting "fixed", getting a new washer, and doctor's appointments and the holidays. I think I need a real vacation from my "vacation."

Oh... and the other thing is the Mommy guilt is starting in. I am getting major anxiety over going back to work. Not because of my job. Heavens NO, I love my job but leaving my sweet little girl. I am so.... hooked.

So, on this New Years Eve night.... I looking back at the MOST AMAZING year in my life and looking forward to a fantastic 2011. Happy New Year! The most exciting year and I. AM. SO. BLESSED!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T20:38:00.001-05:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Thanksgiving

2010-11-30T20:28:00.004-05:00

Richard and I have a lot to be Thankful for this year....Eliza, our parents and their health, the health and happiness of my brothers and each other. Eliza Hayden-Li we are Thankful for all that you have showed us over the last few months... in exactly two days to the day last year we saw your beautiful face and found out that you would be our daughter. We love you little ladybug!

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-26T19:26:00.003-04:00

The cutest little Frog of 2010!

2010-10-26T19:14:00.003-04:00

Almost nine months as a family of 3!

2010-09-30T12:41:00.007-04:00

I do not normally like purple or dress her in purple but it was the second game of the season for the Ravens and so...

Eliza is a bit confused because her Opa likes the Ravens while her Daddy, Granddad and YiYi like the Redskins, so we have a workout outfit for the Ravens and a cheerleading outfit for the Skins. More pics to come of her in those outfits.

Today was her 15 month check up at the doctos and she weighs pounds and 10 ounces. She is getting to be a big girl. She is now saying "Utt O" because up unitl now all we got was the "Utt."

Working with Daddy on her sick day....

2010-09-15T11:43:00.002-04:00

Summer '10 Boating!

2010-09-09T22:05:00.005-04:00

Loves the boat, hates the life jacket!

Eliza loves to read!

Before the "End of Summer" boat ride, yet, already gearing up for Santa!

Tomorrow is Green and Pink Day for a beautiful caring woman who has earned her ANGEL wings!

2010-08-11T20:44:00.003-04:00

'Nough SAID!!

6 months together as of the 18th of July and today Eliza is 13 months old!

2010-07-21T10:24:00.004-04:00

She is still the light and the LOVE of OUR lives!

What a difference six months makes!

Seeing Sister Nicole, Aunt Cindy and Uncle Andy in San Diego

2010-07-17T10:57:00.013-04:00

Aunt Cindy with Baby Eliza and Uncle Andy with Baby Nicole

Our extended Chinese family reunited six months after traveling to China.

We were the Marching Pandas so it was only appropriate that we take Nicole and Eliza to see the pandas. Of course, like all babies they slept through the Pandas but the parents are PROUD MARCHING PANDAS.

My beautiful butterfly and her caterpillar.

Cindy, Andy and Nicole

Nicole was alittle afraid of Eliza in the beginning but we right back to their old selves once comfortable.

Andy and Nicole on the roof top were they were only allowed for breakfast because of baby Nicole. Boy, have times changed! Before, my guess is Andy and Cindy would have been the party on the roof top, now they are only allowed in during the AM. Hee! :)

Our first 4th of July with our baby.

There first fourth of July with their baby.

Sisters of the heart!

A loving family forever!

Our "Cinderella" carriage ride with our Cinderellas.

AMAZING JOY! They have learned so much in the six months they have been home! Nicole is too cute and even uses the words for "Bye Bye."

The SUPER PROUD Daddies!

and their lovin' Mama's.

Sleeping baby Nicole

Pure sweetness!

Finally, I can finally post about Eliza being about to see one of her Hunan Sisters. They are definately sisters of the heart and we are forever grateful for all of the lasting friendships that we made during that "emotional" (Cindy's words and I like it! :)) trip to unite our families. We hope over the duration of the years, we are able to meet up with all of our travel group mates that we spent some of the best and emotional days of our lives with.

So, we have now many aunts and uncles and many sisters. We got to see Aunt Cindy, Uncle Andy and sister Nicole during our recent vacation to San Diego. It was AMAZING to see them. Nicole is flourishing so well. She looks so healthy and well adjusted. Andy and Cindy, as always, are lookin' good and stylin'. We were able to spend the fourth of July with them on the beautiful coastal waters of San Diego. The following day we adventured to the beautiful San Diego Zoo. We got to talk about parenting and raising an adoptive child, our experiences in the short six months that we have been home, post adoption homestudies and readoption here in our beautiful country. We also discussed, someday, returning to China, future vacations and get togethers with other of our travel mates. It was a fun-filled action packed two days but...oh, so worth it for the girls' souls and for us.

So without further to do, here are the pictures Andy and Cindy took of our time together. Watch out because Nicole is a beauty inside and out, her cuteness is going to pop off the page.

Babysitter???

2010-07-15T22:51:00.004-04:00

Tonight though it was a much needed night out with the girls . I surcome to hire an awesome and adopted babysitter herself to watch Eliza. She is a wonderful young lady with tons of values and morals. I could not have picked a better suited young woman so... this blog is not about her but more about me and Eliza's needs.

Let me back track...I am a working mother with a wonderful daycare during the week. I am allowed to fortune to stay home with Eliza about two months out of the year . During her first year, I was able to stay home with her for four months and she was with my mom for two months. I do have to say the guilt tonight leaving her was momumentous. I was not ready for this transition and... I am not sure that she was ready for this transition. Did I need the girls night out? Yes!!! At the expense of leaving my daughter for an additional four hours this week, the answer for myself was, NO!

Why did I do this so early? What was I thinking?

~I guess I was thinking that it would be good for her to have a healthy older Chinese adopted role model in her life.
~I was thinking that it might be fun to have a night out on the town but ...what did we do... we talked about our little ones. How much we love them and miss them!

What did I not think about?

~ Was Eliza thinking she was going to be abandoned again?
~Was she thinking that I only spent two hours with her today and 1/2 an hour of that time was driving the babysitter to and from the house instead of reading, playing with her, singing nursery rhymes and just having good bonding time with her.

I did call the babysitter once during the evening and Richard did come home early from work so she was not with the sitter that long. But, was she ready? Was I ready? Was our family really ready for this? My answer tonight is, "No!" Maybe, someday soon, it will change. But, as for now, I will not do this again anytime soon. Next time, I will have the role model over for a play date or a mother's helper with Mommy (me) around.

Live and Learn.... I am sorry baby girl, please accept this apology. Mommy is learning with you. Sometimes I need to step back and look at both of our needs a little better and not surcome to the outside worlds needs. I love you little Eliza baby!

Our Anniversary we spent at the E. Carnival

2010-07-10T15:10:00.007-04:00

Summer fun with Mommy while Daddy is at work.

Mommy let me play with bubbles inside because it was over 100 degrees outside.

I love the way that you smile and bubbles brings you pure happiness.

I love my squinty smiles. They are so cute.

Our little spicy Hunan girl riding her big green tractor.

MoMMMMMMMMMMM, I love the carnival.

You are too strict mom. Dad and I love a good carnival game and you would not even let me take home the stuffed animal I won. Daddy says you are a, "Big Meanie." Yup, I am. We do not know if other little girls "are forced to make those stuffed animals" that you will have nothing to do with once you are home. Some day little one you will understand, sometimes less is more and spending time with you is the BEST part of the carnival.

There is nothing better than being held by my daddy, eating a cool ice cream cone on one hot summer evening.

Interested in all of the bright lights and the rides and excitement that a carnival brings.

You were shy and timid around the petting animals. You felt secure in Daddy's arms.

There is no other place I have rather spent this anniversary night with my my little baby girl and her daddy. We went to the local carnival where she got to meet petting animals and eat an ice cream cone, play her first carnival games (which her daddy loves) and sit on some big tractors.

At last, we can not wait to get the disc that Aunt Cindy and Uncle Andy are sending us so we can post the pics of you and one of your spicy Hunan sista's Nicole.

Theo and Mishel's wedding in San Diego

2010-07-08T14:23:00.008-04:00

Thanks to Grace Miller for her pictures as our camera was stolen but I wanted to share in Mishel and Theo's happiness. Beautiful day, beautiful ceremony, beautiful reception and reception site.

12 months...PURE LOVE!

2010-06-26T22:22:00.007-04:00

Off to San Diego

2010-06-24T08:36:00.003-04:00

We are off to San Diego next week for my brother Theo's wedding to his high school sweetheart Mishel, who we just ADORE!!!!! She has been in our lives for 10 years and has grown from a sweet teenagers to an OUTSTANDING woman. Theo is the BEST brother a girl could ask for! We are excited to see them UNITED!

We are also excited because we are going to see one of Eliza's Hunan sisters and her AWESOME mommy and daddy. Cindy, Andy and little Nicole. We have kept in touch but we have not seen any of our travel mates since we have been back. We are excited to meet up with them and see how much Nicole has grown.

We also will be visitng my college friend Nadin and she is newly engaged so I hope to meet the lucky man. This will be a fun and busy trip!!!! Pictures to come... I promise!

Happy 1st Birthday Sweet Baby Eliza!

2010-06-22T17:02:00.012-04:00

We had in lots of famiy and friends from Michigan and North Carolina. Many of them from Chuck's side of the family. Chuck was so excited to see so many of his family members here and I think that he really enjoys being a Grandpa (or as he signs the card Yi Yi... Chinese pingjiang for Grandpa). People started to arrive on Thursday evening and on Friday we had people over for drins and light appetizers on Friday evening. ON Saturday we surprised everyone with a dedication ceremony given by a minister to dedicate Eliza to our family. Our God parents were Cathy and Allen and Bill and Abbie. We were delighted and honored that they were willing and accepted the task of helping her to be an outstanding human being. In fact, the minister during the ceremony asked if they would tell us when we were not raising Eliza in the correct fashion. Well, during the ceremony I gave Eliza a flower to play with and she started to eat it and Abbie corrected me. That's when I knew we picked the BEST God parents for Eliza to nurture and help us sustain her.

Eliza's Daddy planned her party and it was catered by a wonderful new BBQ joint in town and we had Maryland crabs. Yum... Richard had crab mallets made to use for the crabs engraved with Eliza's 1st birthday, M and M's with her picture and first birthday on them and wind made with her picture on it. She had a lady bug birthday party for Good Luck for her Chinese hertiage and family also in Chinese characters inscripted on the crab mallets. He served many drinks but also got special ordered Chinese beer to go along with the crabs and of course a yummy vanilla and fresh strawberry cake from Julie Bakes. She made a AWESOME cake for Eliza's birthday. Star gazer lilly's lined the vases as a special flower that R and I had on our wedding day and we hope to also share this flower with Eliza. She wore on old fashion lady bug outfit... professional pictures will be posted once we recieve then and the permission to post them and after the cake she wore a dress then one of my dear freinds gave he that her adopted daughter wore that I someday hope to pass on to a friend who I know dreams will come true.

Eliza Hayden Li, Daddy and I are the LUCKY ones and our truly blessed to have you in our lives. Thank you for loving us!

Today Eliza is 28 and 3/4 inches long and 18 and 1/4 pounds. Your sixth month homestudy was AMAZING and you have caught up to your peers and the pediatrician says you look fantastic and now the gene's will take over for your height and weight. I love you little Eliza Hayden Li!

May days and Meeting Uncle Jason

2010-06-04T23:30:00.008-04:00

People who do not believe in LOVE at first sight, have not adopted the LOVE of their LIFE! I love you little Eliza Hayden-Li!!!! Corny, I know but I do love my little spicy Hunan girl!

Eliza and Uncle Jason getting to know each other on Daddy's tractor.

Eliza telling Uncle Jason how to work the tractor while he is home from medical school.

Getting the two of them to smile at the same time is harder then putting an entire group of kids together. Eliza did love him and it was great that he got to meet her while she was still little. It was a good May visit.

Grass cutting and grass eating? It goes hand in hand for a ten month old.

Crawling at ten months!

Her first two bottom teeth now she has many more.

A Dear Friend

2010-05-27T22:32:00.002-04:00

I have a dear friend whom we have been freinds for over six years. We have never met in person but ....we are of kindred spirit. She is going through extreme pain and if you can find it in your heart to help her, I urge you too. Her blog is: waitingformagpie.blogspot.com. The best way to help is to send an email to your senator or representative. She has a sample letter that you can copy and paste and add in a few inserts. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping out this dear friend!

Thanks for the all the 1st Mother's Day wishes!

2010-05-07T22:17:00.002-04:00

Thank you to everyone who has thought of me this Mother's Day! I have to admit that I am enjoying this day or (should I saythese day's) even more than my birthday! Birthday's, in my opinion, are really for mother's, a day to reflect on the birth of their child and to celebrate a milestone in their child's life, what they have accomplished and their wishes and hopes for the upcoming year. Mother's Day, however, I have waited so very long for this day and everyone has made it so very special for me and started so very early. From the little sweet comments in the hall at work, "Wishing you a happy 1st Mother's day...to "How is the Mama doing?" It does make me feel special and proud of little Eliza. To the beautiful flowers from Eliza's Grammie and Granddad, the cake that Eliza and her Omi made me, to the flowers that Eliza and her daddy sent me, and the cards from Eliza's two uncles and aunt. So much thought went into making this Mother's Day special for me and I THANK each one of you for making this important day to me so VERY SPECIAL.

In the past, Mother's Day has been bittersweet for me and this year, I am able to reframe my thought process and celebrate this special day with my daughter! Yup, those words just came out of my mouth! My loving, caring, kind hearted sweetest little pea you will ever meet... DAUGHTER! (After four months I still pinch myself and catch myself calling Richard over to look at the sweetness, I am holding in my arms.)

I pondered this tonight about Mother's Day...

Is Mother Day celebrated in China? Does Eliza's birth mom realize what a GIFT she has given to Richard and myself? So, on this day I will tell my little girl about a mommy that she had in China that had the courage to choose life for her. Her China mommy made a decision whether by herself or forced to abandon but there was a GREATER plan for her. The plan was for me to be her earthly mom. To guide her, love her and support her. So on this mother's day and henceforth, we will thank Eliza's birth mom for the joy she has brought into our home! Mommy and Daddy love you little ELIZA HAYDEN-LI!!!

100 Days

2010-04-27T19:18:00.002-04:00

Eliza's 100th day is this week. We have had the opportunity to celebrate three months of "month birthdays" with her. She is OUR LIFE. My brother asked me the other day, what is the best part about being a mom? My answer.... "EVERYTHING!" My brother next question me on what is the worst part about being a mom... I said, "Honestly, Jason I can not think of anything." He asked again.... "Really, Jason if you are going to make me pick something then ,I would have to say sleep and not being able to get everything done." But... even that really does not bother me. I know that these times are so precious and that she will grow up so fast that I am trying to LIVE. IN. THE. MOMENT. Previously, I have had a hard time doing living in the moment but I really think that I am not looking ahead or behind but, truly, taking it all in.

Today I tried to compile a list of everything that ELiza has learned in the first 100 days with us but ,I know that this is by far not everything, but there goes a short list. This way I know what to tell her when she grows up and wants me to answer these types of questions: She knows my voice. She knows tha t I will comfort her and love her. She has learned to "ask" for what she wants. She shakes her head no and yes (in that order) she learned no first and recently this week she has started to shake her head yes. She loves to crawl. Last week, Opi taught her to lean back but this week she "melts" to try to be Ms. independant and get down." Her favorite songs are "Itsey Bitsy Spider" and " Five little monkeys jumping on the bed." She loves to dance. She sticks out her leg and I call it her ballerina. Eliza loves the television show "DWTS." She watches them dance and many times bops up and down to the music. Elixa loves to study items and tries to repeat them. She is starting to really enjoy books and loves to put together puzzles. At ten months she is 19 pounds and wearing nine to twelve month clothing.

My 100 day letter to my daughter...

Dear Eliza,

Mommy loves when you smile, you know, that smile with those gorgeous almond eyes that are so brown that I can see your soul and my reflection loving you in them. I love the fact that you are funny and have a sense of humor but you are serious also. You do a great job communicating your needs to your daddy and I. At ten months old, you have captured our heart!

You are a sweet little girl that is friendly with strangers yet inquizative. Yesterday, a Chinese woman tried to talk to you and you sweetly nuzzled into my shoulder as if to say, Mommy I love you. Please protect me. That made me feel special. All I wanted to do was comfort you and tell you that it is O.K. You already knew because I was giving you your wings to explore but, I was there as your safety net for you to check in. You love to watch people, you not only capture people by your unique beauty but also they see straight to your loving heart.

I am so lucky to have spent our first 100 days together but I am also looking for the next hundred and the next hundred and again and again and again.

I love you my sweet baby girl!!!

Love,
Mommy

10 Months

2010-04-24T08:49:00.002-04:00

Eliza was ten months old yesterday. She spent the day with her Omi and got to meet one of her Uncle's. Now, I think she has officially met the entire nucleus family, though we still have some extended family members to go. Eliza is a SHEAR joy! She wakes up happy. She loves to be held. She is drinking out a sippy cup with a soft nipple (transition nine month cup). She pulls herself up to a stand position. She transfers from one person to another or from one piece of furniture to another. She is only waking up two times a night. Yesterday, when she was off to her Omi's she waived bye to me. Her little hand was turned facing her and she opened and closed her hand. She loves to give kisses, open mouth slobber ones are her speciality. She is learning new developmentally appropriate "things" everyday and soon I think that she will be caught up. Her first word was "Up!" and "No!" The funny thing is that Richard and I made an agreement that we were not going to use the word, "No" with Eliza. We would divert her attention, say a phrase like "Not for Eliza" etc. but she shakes her head and definately nows the word "No," So much for the terrible twos we are not even to one yet!!!! My girl crawls. She is a speed demon. She also crawls the two steps to the kitchen foward and yes, folks, as of last weekend backwards.

Our lives have not been the same since we recieved her and we are LOVIN' every stinkin' moment(literally she gives us at least four to five surprises a day..you know the smelly diaper changin' kind) .

Shannon (GiGi's mom)

2010-04-24T08:48:00.001-04:00

I miss you Shannon, Rob and GiGi... how can I be invited to view your blog? My pm is crabbykt@aol.com. Please contact me so I can follow your journey also! Hope all is well!

Eliza's 1st beach trip

2010-04-06T20:20:00.010-04:00

One of my favorite pics to date!!!! PURE SIMPLE LOVE!!!!

Yeah, that's my Daddy holding me!

The love of my life!

Jumping the tidal waves...O.K. the after wave rumble. I am only 9 months, you know!

Am I a beach catapiller or what?

Standing on the seashore, waiting for a wave.

Daddy dug a hole so that I could feel like how it is to stand on my own, but Mommy still helped.

Pure goodness!

Simple fun!

This sand stuff is AMAZING!

Sand taste like chicken!

Mommy loves my long eye lashes!

"Toes in the sand, couldn't feel much hotter." ~Kenny Chesney

Yup, those look like fun waves.

Mommy, is that the beach that you been telling me about and reading me stories about?

Yum, I like the taste of sand... I wonder what my diaper for Oma and Opa will look like tomorrow!

Today was a family day!!!! I loved it! Richard changed his day off from work and it was perfect. We went to the beach! It was AMAZING! She loved it. She ate the sand. Crawled across the sand. Her Daddy bought her sand toys and she played with them in the sand. She learned to drink from a straw. She is definately a Mommy's girl, lovin' the beach!

Now for pictures of pure sweetness!

8 and 9 month Pictures

2010-04-01T08:29:00.015-04:00

Making Opa's Birthday Cake...definately Mommy's shu chef,

Or... I could be the official taste tester.

Making Daddy's birthday brownies and finger painting with the batter.

I learned "So Big" and I am such a big girl helping Mommy and Omi making brownies.

Yup, it's official I am a baker.

At the Natural History Museum in the "Bug tunnel" with my new tunnel friend.

Me crawling through the tunnel thinking that I am a big girl.

Playing and kissing the alligator at the hands-on portion of the museum.

Omi and Opa are always taking me to historical sites and teaching me new things.

Me and Grandpa Reed

Ms. Susan and I

Grandma Reed and I

Yes, lots of people love me and I love them!

Aunt Pam and I

Love her!

Peas are one my favorite foods. I love veggies and fruit!

Tuna Noodle Casserole anyone???? Eliza loves it... come on...

My daddy and I are two peas in a pod! I love HIM!!!!!

Am I the Easter bunny?

Grammie and Eliza before the big AMAZING photo shoot at PP.

My two girls... two passie's (pacifiers) taken away not happy girls but loving girls.

Chessie and Eliza are truly best friends! They share everything and she is so protective of Eliza. Though Chessie does occasionally become jealous of Eliza... change in family dynamics but sisters of the heart!

Eliza and Chessie on Valentine's Day... our two loves... 2010

Eliza is starting to crawl. She started about two Wednesday ago. A day or two before she turned nine months old. For each of her birthday's that we have had in the United States she has been able to be with her Grammie and Granddad. It has been special. She recently followed her Opa around the room two times while crawling. She is getting faster by the day. She finally used American sign language for milk and she says "Mmm...." when she is hungry. It is so encouraging to know that we are figuring out her cues and I am sure she is figuring out ours. Last weekend we visited the Natural History Musuem in Washington DC. She loved watching the other children, playing in the touch and feel zone and looking at the dinosaurs, sea animals and mammals. We even took her to see the Hope diamond. She is a true girl and was truly impressed with the diamond, or... it could have been all the young teenagers surrounding the diamond. :) She has made a guest appearance at the middle school where I work and has been to Daddy's work and even watched him play in the band he recently joined. She loved dancing to his music.

9 Months Old

2010-03-30T20:12:00.004-04:00

Little Eliza is still having sleeping problems. We have talked with our international peditrician, our local peditrician, our post adoption social worker, friends, co-workers and family. All have good advice and we have tried several of their "interventions". Still to no avial. She is still waking up 12 to 13 times a night. She is just not a good sleeper.

Some of the interventions include... (my disclaimer..hee! but not limited too...)
-rice cereal in her bottle
-sleep with you
-put a pack n' play beside your bed
-no it is better if you put the actual crib in your room
-touch her han-use soothing words
-try a sound machine
-humidifier
-a heart beat bear
- with a pillow
-limit her space in the crib
-give her more space in the crib
-prop her with a boppy
-put pacifiers all around her to grab
-start moving the crib or pack n' play towards the door, yeah right, I can't even get her sleep in it all night
-let her cry
- check her diaper is it dry
- too hot
-too cold
-bundle her and just leave out her "thumb" or pacifier hand

I am not going to give up but I do need to give a "A BIG THANK YOU" to my mom that has come over and let me sleep for a few nights here and there. I will continue to try...the newest is I have to try these for at least two weeks. It is not the getting down to have her go to sleep but rather the staying asleep after an hour or two of sleep. Naps are not a problem...two a day 45 minutes in the AM about 9 am and in the afternoon about one pm for an hour and a half.

With all that talk about sleep, I still would not change her or my love for her....this too shall pass and I will have great memories to share with her. Oh, by the way, my mom says...pay back time and she said that I was NOT a good sleeper either.... Huh?!!!! Now I love to sleep!

I promise the next post will be lots of pictures of Eliza making her Opa's and Daddies birthday cakes!

8 months old and 35 days at home with our little one!

2010-03-05T23:45:00.002-05:00

We have been home for one month and five days. Lots of bonding has been occuring, as well as, sickness. Eliza has met both sets of grandparents, some cousins, an uncle and an aunt. She is adjusting and we are learning lots about each other. Today, while at the mall in a highly populated Asian section of our state I realized that we still have much more bonding and attachment issues to come. Let me set the scenario for you, over this last week, we have been calling and interviewing people for infant daycare. Daycare is hard to find in our area and infant daycare is just about impossible. Thankgoodness, my mom is willing to care for her until we are able to find someone that we feel comfortable with. We have waited to long, just to pick someone...more on this later. Eliza was getting fussy, so I sat down on a mall bench. I was trying to playing with her, singing nusery rhymes but she was not interested in me but rather the person behind me. She started (ever so cutely) tilting her head, trying to engage this women in interaction. I turn around and it is 40 or 50 year old Asian woman with short but well done black hair. She starts calling out "I...E..." which means nanny or auntie is Chinese. She then proceeds to put out her hands for her. At that moment, I was devestated. I had taught her how to use her hands, I had taught her how to hold her hands out for someone when she wanted to go to that person. The jealousy in me was mounting. That is not "IE" I told Eliza. Omi and Mommy are right here. I told my mom, lets go this is hard on her. Eliza's eyes were taken off of this ladeis view by my utter chatter but then she began searching again for this stranger.

This reminds me everyday she is learning and enjoying our company but she is still grieving. She still remembers even at her young age. She still understands the Chinese language and gets excited when someone speaks "her' language. I need to continue to let her grieve comfort her, read books about her transition both for myself and for her. Remind myself she is still transitioning and will be for a while.

Earlier this week, I did cry for her, realizing that at four weeks that work gives you for adoption Eliza nor I was ready for me to return to work. My job afforded me the opportunity to take family leave without pay. It was well worth the sarcfice.

Eliza has enriched our lives and introduction to our extended "f" family went well but it was interesting in the redefining of roles. It was hard on Eliza and on our other little girl. More on that in another post.

Thank you to all for your well wishes and I hope to post some pictures of pure sweetness in the next fewdays. She is not only sweet looking but her heart is sweet and will wrap you in your heart or your gut like a piece of yummy candy. Yes, we are IN LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!

Between 26 and 32 inches for Eliza's 1st snow! She does everything big!

2010-02-07T12:22:00.006-05:00

She is standing in the snow with the assistance of the snow.

Is snow really this deep?

Are you going to get me out of this cave?

Yup, I like it!!!!

Wearing Granny's (past awayover 10 years ago but still very loved!) pin on her Raven's hat!