Loving Olivia

The Little Gym Recital!!

2010-01-25T19:46:00.003-06:00

My Sweet Baby Girl!!!!

2010-01-25T19:38:00.005-06:00

I thank God for putting adoption in my heart because I would have hate to have missed out on on being Mommy to this sweet and wonderful girl!!

Merry Christmas!!!

2009-12-25T22:52:00.002-06:00

Wordless Wednesday!

2009-11-25T13:46:00.000-06:00

Finally Adding New Pictures

2009-10-03T09:46:00.004-05:00

First Day of Tap, Ballet, & Gymnastics at The Little Gym

First Day of School!

Making Cupcakes!

Circus, JUGS Weekend & Mo & Poppy's

2009-08-12T16:40:00.004-05:00

The circus at Reliant Stadium.

JUGS Weekend

Mo & Poppy's House

The Woodlands w/the Fuseliers

2009-07-19T10:43:00.003-05:00

We met up with Euric, Kristi, Ty and Trace yesterday at Tommy Bahamas in The Woodlands and had a great time. When we got out of the car to go into the restaurant, Olivia told me it was too hot but when we left the restaurant it had cooled down by at least 20 degrees. While we were waaaiiitting to get a table it rained very hard for about 20 minutes. When we left and went out into The Woodlands' version of Central Park it was so nice and actually was a just a little chilly. I thought for sure after the rain it would feel hot and sticky but it was just the opposite. It felt so good just to sit outside and enjoy being outside. I can't remember the last time that has happened. The kids had a great time and Olivia just loves both the boys and what is so great is the that they are so good with her. In the first picture she has a ladybug balloon animal on her wrist that the boys stood in line for an hour to get for her. Thanks Ty and Trace!!! Looking forward to the next get together.

We got a POOL!!!!

2009-07-17T21:38:00.005-05:00

I know I know!! It wasn't what you thought. Peter decided to get Olivia a little wading pool to play in on the hot days.... which seem to be never ending. We don't have a backyard but a courtyard so we don't have a lot to work with but it works. She had fun and that is all that matters! Oh and she cried because she had to get out.

I found my USB cord!

2009-07-15T13:22:00.008-05:00

I lost/misplaced my USB cord after we got back from Brenham. I looked everywhere for it and no luck. So on Sunday, I bought a new cord from Ebay. Monday when I got in my car I noticed my cord on the floor of the passenger side. I knew I would find it after I ordered a new one. Oh well. Here are the pictures that were on my camera.

More Pics of Olivia & Mommy!

2009-07-06T16:31:00.002-05:00

Happy 4th of July!!!

2009-07-04T19:51:00.001-05:00

Miscellaneous Pictures!

2009-06-27T20:04:00.009-05:00

In her "house" on Mommy and Daddy's bed.

Rocking baby Alexa.

Olivia and Zoe in their matching shirts.
Thanks Mrs Sherri!

Olivia and Zoe supposedly resting.

Waiting for the Dr. Schelgel.

The doctor's office is not suppose to be this much fun.

I'm not getting shots... right!

Mommy doesn't like it when I put my hands on the windows. It makes her nervous.

Mommy & Olivia

I think I might touch Mr. Ray.

Waiting for the Shark Train ride to begin.

Olivia riding on her "favorite" dolphin.

Olivia and Mr. Squidy waiting in line for another train ride.

Olivia and Daddy trying to win Mr. Froggy.

Olivia & Mommy

2009-06-25T19:07:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Olivia!!

2009-06-10T09:22:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday sweet girl!!

Mommy and Daddy love you very much!!!

Olivia's Birthday Party!

2009-06-08T20:18:00.002-05:00

Zoo!!

2009-06-02T16:53:00.002-05:00

Waiting for Mrs. Sherri, Miss Ruthie and Zoe.

In the petting zoo brushing a goat. I think this is Olivia's favorite part of the zoo because we usually spend around 15 or 20 minutes petting/brushing all the animals.

Olivia, Miss Ruthie & Zoe

On the ride home.

Toenails & Fingernails Painted!

2009-06-01T11:15:00.002-05:00

Olivia and I went this morning to get our nails done. I got a manicure and she just got her finger and toenails painted. She loved it and all the ladies in the shopped just thought she was precious. Of course they asked if she was Chinese and I told them a little bit of the story of our adoption. They kept staring at her and talking in Vietnamese and I could tell she was getting a shy but if they asked her questions she answered them. I have a feeling this we will a regular thing for us because when we got in the car she told me that she wanted to get the same chairs next time.

Ruth's Going Away Party

2009-05-31T16:20:00.003-05:00

Last night we went over to the Sakson's for Ruth's going away party. Ruth is their exchange student from Hong Kong. I can't believe she is already leaving. It just seemed like yesterday they picked her up a the airport. She will be leaving on June 8 but Olivia and I will see her tomorrow when we go to the zoo with Sherri, Zoe and Ruth. I have to share something Olivia said last night. We were going to toast Ruth with champagne so Will went upstairs to get Olivia and Zoe. Will told them to come downstairs because they were going to make a toast and my sweet girl said, "Toast... I like toast. Do you have any peanut butter." The child cracks me up!!!

Brianna's Birthday Party!

2009-05-30T14:24:00.003-05:00

Today Olivia, Sharon, Emma and I made the trip down to Clear Lake City for Brianna's birthday party. For those of you that don't know, Brianna is the little girl that was in the same orphanage as Olivia. We traveled with her parents to China to get the girls. The party was a blast. Olivia loved playing in the pool. A big slide was set up in the driveway but Olivia would not go down it. Camden, Brianna's brother, offered to go up and slide down with her but she still wouldn't do it. I don't understand her sometimes. We can go to a Pump it Up party and she will go down slides taller than the one today but for some reason she wasn't comfortable with it. We stayed for around 2 hours and then made the trip back home. Olivia and Emma talked the entire way down as well as back up to our house. Emma's parents used the same adoption agency we used and went to get Emma a few months before we got Olivia. They live in Katy so we decided to carpool. After we got home Emma and Olivia played for about 30 minutes in Olivia's playroom. Emma didn't want to leave when her Mama told her it was time to go. Olivia is now taking a nap because I want her to be rested because we are going the Saksons for Ruth's going away party tonight.

Thankful Thursday!

2009-05-28T19:08:00.000-05:00

Peter and Olivia playing Wii Princess game.

Wordless Wednesday!

2009-05-27T19:02:00.001-05:00

Annual Conference!

2009-05-27T16:26:00.004-05:00

King Spencer & Princess Olivia

Peter, Olivia and I just got back from spending 3 days in The Woodlands at Annual Conference. It was fun but it is exhausting. It is amazing how tired you get when you sit all day listening to speakers and reports. Monday, Olivia went to childcare all day long and had the best time. We dropped her off at 9:00 am and picked her up at 8:15 pm. On one of our breaks we went down to get something to drink and we saw Olivia playing in the indoor playground. We went to the window and looked at her for the longest time but she never saw us. Once she did she just looked at us and waved and then continued to play. We went to pick her up around 5:00 but she was eating so we left for a few minutes. We decided we would ask her if she wanted to stay or go out with us to eat. Well when we got back and asked her she wanted to stay. Needless to say she had a fun day!! I am so glad that she is able to go into a totally new environment and have a good time. It makes me feel better. Tuesday, Olivia and I met my friend Stefanie and her son Spencer at the Children's Museum in The Woodland's Mall. The kids a lot of fun and it was great catching up with Stef. I was pleasantly surprised on how well Olivia and Spencer got along. Within a couple of minutes they were the best of friends. We played there for awhile and then had lunch and rode the carousel twice. We went back to the museum for a little while longer and then left because the kids were getting tired. Today was the last day so Olivia and I dropped Daddy off at the church and then we went to the mall and played in the children's area and shopped. We picked Daddy up around noon and we came home. I love the fact we are only 45 minutes from The Woodlands. It was a good time but glad to be home.

Too cute!! I think Spencer fell in love with Olivia.

My sweet baby!!

Having fun on Ruby the Cat and Moon the Horse.

Sitting in Olivia's house.

The little bugs!

Fun Friday!

2009-05-23T16:10:00.004-05:00

Ty, Olivia & Trace

Yesterday, our good friends from Beaumont, Euric, Kristi and their two boys, Ty (10) and Trace (6) made a trip to Houston to see us. We went to Beaumont about 3 weeks ago and had dinner with them and while we were there we planned a shopping and a zoo trip. Kristi and I went shopping while the guys took the kids to the zoo. Kristi and I went down Harwin street looking for some good finds. At first we were shopping where the majority of the jewelry is but Kristi wanted to shop for bags. She went a couple of years but couldn't remember the location of the handbag shops. I had never been there before so I wasn't sure where to go so we got in the car and went all the way down Harwin. We lucked out because Kristi recognized the warehouses with the handbag shops. We managed to find several good purses but we had to ask for them and had to go into the "back" room in order to see them. Needless to say we each bought 2 purses and a pair of sunglasses for a great price. We really had a good time but there were a couple of situations where we got a little nervous because there were some nefarious looking people but we managed to stay safe. The guys took the kids to the zoo and they had a wonderful time. Peter said it was the best time he and Olivia have had at the zoo. It is much more fun when you take more kids. After the zoo and shopping we met up with the guys at one of my favorite restaurants, Spaghetti Western. They have great Italian food and Italian margarita's. The food was good and it was fun to see Olivia interact with the boys. When they walked in she was holding Ty's hand. Peter told me she loved hanging out with them. We all had a good time and are looking forward to the next get together.

Questions & Answers

2009-05-19T16:48:00.004-05:00

Today I received Olivia's packet from school. The packet contains many different things she has done throughout the year. My favorite thing is the questions the teacher will ask each child and of course the child's answer. Here are Olivia's questions and answers:

What does Mommy do? She checks on the computer.

What did you do during the hurricane? I go to the backyard.

What was your favorite animal in the Here trip? Giraffe skin

What do you want to be for Halloween? Mulan

What is your favorite fruit? I like strawberries.

What are you thankful for? My mommy and daddy.

Dear Santa please bring me... "A star"

What did you get for Christmas? Fancy Nancy & Ariel

What do you want to be when you grow up? a princess

Our Spring Break News - I went to the zoo with Mommy and Daddy.

Why is your mommy special? Because she takes me for a ride.

The Christmas Story

by Olivia Miller

"Angel told them you have to have good news. She came to see Mary, Joseph and the Wiseman then baby Jesus in the hay where the crib was." The end!

Festival

by Olivia Miller

"My mommy daddy and me went to a big festival. But it was a Noah festival but there was no parade so we left. We were stuck by a train. Mommy said it was over then we went home."

Wordless Wednesday!!

2009-05-13T16:48:00.002-05:00

Someone didn't...

2009-05-12T17:54:00.002-05:00

Take a nap at school today.

I picked Olivia up around 4:15 from KK today. We went to the grocery store for about 30 minutes and on the way home I look in the rear view mirror and she is sound asleep. I get her out of the car and she doesn't even wake up. So I put her on the couch and she has been sleeping for about an hour. I need to wake her up or she won't go to sleep until late tonight.

3rd Anniversary of Gotcha Day!!

2009-05-08T16:04:00.006-05:00

05/08/06

05/08/07

05/08/08

05/08/09

Boot Scootin Boogie!

2009-05-07T20:16:00.004-05:00

This afternoon Olivia and I went to her school's Boot Scootin BBQ! It was a lot of fun. We had BBQ, Olivia danced on the stage with a bunch of her friends, stayed in the petting zoo for a very long time and enjoyed a hay ride. I realized this past week that Olivia only has 2 weeks of school left. I can't believe how fast this school year has gone. She will be home for a week then off to VBS and then will be at her school for the summer. This summer she will be going 5 days a week from 9:00 to 2:30 and she will also be going 5 days a week for Pre-K in the fall.

New Play Space

2009-04-28T16:53:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I cleaned out my closet. It was long overdue! I got rid of clothes and shoes so I can make room for more. :-) This morning I was ironing Olivia's shirt in my clean closet and Olivia came in and basically didn't want to leave. After I got her ready for school she went upstairs and got her pillow and proceeded to lay down in my closet until she had to go to school.

The Zoo & Dinner

2009-04-25T16:51:00.003-05:00

Last night we went to dinner at Ruggles (great desserts) with the Saksons and then we were suppose to go to Miller Outdoor Theater to see a Chinese dance troup but there was a totally unexpected downpour. We decided to go home and Olivia was disappointed because she really wanted to go "see China". This morning when she woke up she noticed it wasn't raining and asked it we could go "see China".

This past Wednesday, Olivia was out of school because of teacher conferences. I met with her teachers @ 9:30 and found out Olivia is confident and a leader, she plays well by herself as well as small and large groups and my favorite is that she shows empathy to all of her classmates. My sweet baby. Afer the conferences we went to see a dance show @ Miller Outdoor Theater that spanned from the 40's to the 90's and then we had a picnic with Sherri, Zoe, Evelyn and the other Olivia to celebrate Zoe's 5th birthday. After the picnic we went to the zoo with Sherri & Zoe and had a wonderful day.

Lots O'Pictures!!

2009-04-20T15:55:00.003-05:00

Pharyn & Olivia @ Zan's birthday party.

Olivia and her giraffe inside Z Gallerie.

Zoe & Olivia on carousel.

Zoe, Olivia, Ruth & Cameron @ Zoe's birthday party.

Three sweet little girls!

Olivia @ her Easter party @ school.

Olivia and her cookie basket from Aunt Mary! It was yummy!!

Mo & Olivia dying Easter eggs.

Running around the house.

My sweet baby girl!!

May I please?

2009-04-19T11:39:00.002-05:00

I have to brag on Olivia on something she said this morning. I went to pick her up after Sunday School and she wanted some crackers to take home. I told her she had to ask her teacher so she did and this is what she said, "May I please have some crackers to take home with me?" I was so proud on how polite she was and her teacher commented on her manners. She does listen to Peter and me!!

Adoption Support Group!

2009-04-15T17:46:00.004-05:00

Our church has started an Adoption Support Group as well as an Adoption Ministry and I am really excited about it. I was suppose to go the first meeting last week but I got sick with a stomach bug for two days. The support group meets the first Tuesday of the month and I plan on going in May. Our church newspaper states that the topics will be about the process phase, fitting together with siblings and a multi-racial families, attachment disorders and much more. I am looking forward to the next meeting. Before the first meeting Peter and I were asked to tell our story that would be featured in our church newspaper. I got online today and there was the article I wrote and a quote by Peter along with another adoption story. Our church has several people who have adopted included our good friends the Saksons whose daughter Zoe is Olivia's BFF. I'm glad our church has decided to start a support group as well as a ministry because giving birth may be an act of nature but adopting is an act of God.

http://www.stlukesmethodist.org/attachments/wysiwyg/227/ESpire041709.indd.pdf

He is Risen... He is Risen indeed.

2009-04-12T17:24:00.003-05:00

Happy Easter!! I hope everyone's Easter has been wonderful. Olivia and I got up and went to our 10:10 service. Easter at the Park had been cancelled due to rain. It didn't start raining until 11:45 and the service in the park was suppose to start @ 10:00 and end around 11:00 but we were having an Easter egg hunt afterwards. Everything worked out and it was just as good at the church. The music was wonderful and the message was inspirational.

Front page!!!

2009-04-11T18:15:00.004-05:00

Thanks to our church's Director of Communications, Olivia and Zoe's picture is on the front page of the River Oaks Examiner. The front page picture is from last Easter at the Park. Butterflies were let go but because is was very chilly outside they didn't go very far. One landed close to us and the girls found it. I love this picture. Sherri and I thought the picture should have been on the cover of The Houston Chronicle because a photographer was there taking pictures of the girls but it didn't make it. The other picture is when Olivia, Pharyn and Blake got to play in all the Easter eggs last week. On a sad note our Easter in the Park this year has been moved to the church. There is a 50% to 80% chance of rain in the morning. I am disappointed because I and many others were looking forward to it.

Dying Eggs and Palm Sunday

2009-04-11T09:27:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday we dyed Easter eggs. Actually I think Peter and I dyed them more than Olivia. She had fun decorating them. She has the same t-shirt on that she wore 2 years ago to dye eggs.

On Palm Sunday our church had an Easter Egg Hunt. After church we went out to a field and had hotdogs, played on bouncies and listened to our church band play. We did all this before the hunt. When we first got to the field the kids could see it sectioned off in ages and the eggs were in the middle of each section. They just ran for it and the parents had to stop them before they started picking up the eggs. I enjoyed because it was geared towards the entire family.

Wordless Wednesday!!

2009-04-08T15:50:00.001-05:00

More Easter Egg Pictures!!!

2009-04-03T12:36:00.002-05:00

Easter Eggs!!!

2009-04-03T11:04:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Olivia, Pharyn and a little boy I do not know got to play in all the Easter eggs that St. Luke's has for the hunts on Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday. I don't know the whole story behind it but I will soon and I hope to have more pictures and a video. I am just upset that I didn't get to see it.

Sunday!!

2009-03-29T14:45:00.003-05:00

Pictures of the Week!

2009-03-28T18:25:00.003-05:00

Fun Saturday

2009-03-21T18:47:00.005-05:00

Wordless Wednesday!

2009-03-18T16:48:00.000-05:00

Shower Pictures

2009-03-18T11:56:00.003-05:00

On April 1, 2006 our former church, Wesley UMC in Bmt, threw Peter and I our baby shower for Olivia. Last night I finally received the pictures on a cd. The former pastor, Jim, had taken all the pictures and put them on a cd but we never got it because we left for China a month later and then both of our families moved to the Houston area in June. We have seen Jim and his family several times over the past three years and each time the cd has either been forgotten by us or them. So last night we went to Friendswood to have dinner with them and during the evening Debbie remembered it and gave us the cd so now I have all the pictures. I have had a few of the pictures for the the past 3 years because a wonderful friend of mine made a little scrapbook of the shower but it is nice to finally have them all.

Here are just a few of the pictures.

Shelley, my Mom, me (with blond short hair and braces) and Cassie

It took me 3 hours to open all of the gifts.

Rainy & Cold Heritage Festival

2009-03-15T19:20:00.007-05:00

Once again Olivia and I packed up and went to my Mom's house for the annual Heritage Festival and this year Peter finally got to go with us. For the last two years he has had weddings so he hasn't been able to go. We were going to leave on Friday and go to the festival that evening but it was very cold and rainy so we decided to leave Saturday morning and get there in time for the parade. The best part of the parade is the fact that the people throw candy so before we left my Mom's house we had to make sure all the kids had bags for the candy. Thank goodness the parade wasn't as long has it has been in the past because it was COLD. After the parade we went to ride some rides and get something to eat. At first Olivia didn't want to ride anything but I made her get on the carousel and she seemed to like it but the next ride was a little dune buggy and she loved it. She was ready for more but unfortunately it was too cold so we only stayed a little while longer. I love going every year but this year was so disappointing because of the rain and the cold. There is always next year.

Olivia is ready to get her candy.

Poppy helping Olivia with her candy.

Mommy and Olivia on the dune buggy ride. Needless to say I had to sit on bar in the back because my butt didn't fit.

Let's ride some more rides.

A little dizzy after the helicopter ride.

I'm just going to close my eyes for just a second.

Olivia and her candy.

My little guitar hero.

Justin putting colored hair in Olivia's hair.

Olivia setting up for her tea party with Joel.

Heart & Homework

2009-03-12T17:24:00.005-05:00

When Olivia and I were in her playroom I made the comment that I was going to clean out toys while she was gone to my parents this weekend. She told me she had a lot of toys and didn't need all of them so I should give some of hers to kids who don't have any toys. Ahhhhh!! Then she told me she does what her heart tells her to do. Another Ahhhhh!! I asked her if she knew who was in her heart. She didn't so I told her Jesus was in her heart. She agreed and then again says she does what her heart tells her to do. My sweet baby.

Olivia doing her "homework".

My parents gave her a little computer a couple of years ago for Christmas. I like it because it is a learning computer but I think she still is a little young to understand the different lessons. She took it out of her little storage and wanted to put it on her table and do her "homework". Of course I had to help her with most of it. I have a feeling that will be the case when she starts having real homework.

Pictures from the past couple of days!!

2009-03-10T18:42:00.006-05:00

Sunday, I took Olivia to a birthday party at the Little Gym for one of the little girls in her class. She had fun but she sat with me for half of the party. A couple of months ago Peter took her to a party at the same place and she played for the entire time. I just don't understand what goes through her little mind.

Yesterday, Sherri and I took the girls to the Houston Arboretum. We had planned to walk the Outer Loop which is 1.9 miles but the girls started to whine after 5 minutes of walking. Olivia was tired and wanted me to hold her and Zoe wanted us to walk slower. Needless to say we didn't walk the Outer Loop... we ended up walking most of the Inner Loop. What I don't understand is their daddies took them on Saturday and did they whine??? NO!! I guess they think their mommies are pushovers.

Today after I picked up Olivia from school I bribed her yet again with a treat so she would take pictures with a smile on her face. This time she got a Weight Watchers fudgesicle. We have azaleas in our courtyard and on the side of the house and I wanted to get pictures with Olivia in front of them. I think they turned out good but she did do her cheesey smile quite a bit.

Bribing Olivia!!

2009-03-07T18:04:00.009-06:00

This afternoon Olivia and I were sitting on the couch and I looked over at her and she looked so cute I had to take pictures. Just as I was about to get my camera she asked for a sticky snack (Rice Krispie Treat). Ahhh!! She wants something and I want something. So like the good mother I am I told her if she smiles when I take pictures of her I will give her one. Well the bribe worked because I think the pictures are precious. It is sad when you have to bribe your child to take pictures.

Horses and Anniversary of Referral Day!!

2009-02-28T14:24:00.014-06:00

This morning we went to see the cowboys and horses ride to downtown for the Rodeo Parade. The cowboys spend the night at Memorial Park so to get to downtown they have to go down Memorial. Our friends the Saksons live just off of Memorial so we went over there this morning and stood in the median and watched the horses go by. I have always wanted to go to the parade but I don't want to have to fight the crowds so this is a much better altenative. Sherri invited several friends so we had a nice little crowd of our own and she was nice enough to make coffee, chocolate milk and mimosas. Thanks Sherri the mimosas were wonderful. This is definitely going to be an annual event. Just a little side note... Olivia wore her pink cowboy boots and she told me she wanted to see a pink horse just like her pink boots. Needless to say we did not see a pink horse.

Olivia's Referral Picture

Three years ago today we found out Olivia was going to be our baby. I can't believe it has been three years. The time has flown by and to think Olivia is going to be 4 years old in June. It doesn't seem possible. Some days it feels like we were just in China. Sometimes I wish I could suspend time and let her be this age for a little while longer.

Thankful Thursday!

2009-02-26T17:06:00.002-06:00

Thankful for these sweet little girls!!

Wordless Wednesday!

2009-02-18T17:41:00.002-06:00

Olivia Can't Keep a Secret!!

2009-02-16T15:14:00.005-06:00

My beautiful pillow made with love from my sweet baby girl!!

I found out this weekend that Olivia cannot keep a secret. Me, my mom and Olivia were on our way to Stafford to see my cousin's daughter, Anais, dance in a competition. Halfway there Olivia starts telling me about a pillow she and her Daddy made for me for Valentines Day. The conversation was something like this:

Olivia: "Mommy, me and Daddy made you a pillow for Valentine's Day but I am not suppose to tell you about it. Ok??"

Me: "What are you talking about?"

Olivia: "Me and Daddy made you a pillow for Valentine's Day but Daddy told me not to tell you so I can't say anything. We will give it to you on Valentines Day. Ok?"

There were a few more exchanges but I really didn't understand those any better. Me and mom were laughing and Olivia was just so serious about the whole matter. She kept saying she couldn't tell me about it. It was really out of the blue. That morning we did talk a little about Valentine's Day but nothing specific and she kept telling I would get the pillow when it was Valentine's Day. I am really shocked she kept it in so long. Peter told me they have been working on it on Fridays while I was at work. It was the sweetest Valentine's Day present I have ever gotten from my sweet girl. My sweet husband gave me a spa pedicure and manicure. He knows me so well.

Valentine's Day!

2009-02-15T12:25:00.005-06:00

Olivia putting her lip gloss on while me, mom and her were having brunch at Cyclone Anaya's. YUMMY!!

When we left Stafford we were looking for a place to eat brunch. We tried IHop and Le Peep and both of them were so busy that people were waiting outside to get in. I am sorry I am not going to wait especially when I am hungry. So I called Cyclone Anaya's and they were open with hardly anyone at the restaurant. This was definately a better choice because their brunch is awesome. Peter and my dad went to the Home and Garden Show and the RV show that morning and came home with Burger King. Too bad for them.

Olivia and her cousins adopted from Vietnam... Anais and Chloe.
Me, mom and Olivia went to Stafford to see Anais dance in a competition on Saturday morning. We got there at 8:00 in the morning and stayed for a couple of hours. Anais is a wonderful dancer and she received 1st place and many more awards that day.

Anais & Olivia

Olivia with her t-shirt and lei on from Aunt Theresa when she went to Hawaii.

Dressed up for her Valentine's Day party at school.

Fun Day at the Zoo!!

2009-02-10T16:23:00.007-06:00

This is Miles the baby giraffe that was born at the zoo on January 30.

Isn't he cute!!!

Yesterday after school, Olivia and I went to the zoo with Sherri and Zoe. We were having such a great time we lost all track of time and stayed for 3 hours. We have never stayed more than an hour and a half at the zoo. It is much more fun with friends. Olivia and Zoe had a blast running around finding the animals. Every time we would get to an animal we would look at it for a minute and then it was off to find another one. They rode the carousel twice and it was fun because they were the only two on it. Miss Sherri bought some popcorn and shared with everyone. At one point she bend down to give Olivia some and she said something like, "Here Miss O" and then Olivia told her, "I'm not Miss O... I am Miss Olivia."

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!!

2009-02-09T16:09:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday Daddy!! I hope you have a wonderful birthday. I am sorry you have to stay late at work on your birthday. Me and mommy had fun on Saturday with you celebrating your birthday early. I love you!!! Olivia

Pictures of the Week!

2009-02-08T11:14:00.003-06:00

Brooke needs....

2009-02-03T17:13:00.002-06:00

I was on another adoptive family's website and she had a post about googling your name and putting needs beside it and to see what pulls up.

Here are some of them...

Brooke needs a loving and supportive family..
I already have one.

Brooke needs to butt out...
Out of what??

Brooke needs a cute outfit...
I am always in need of a cute outfit.

Brooke needs open lines of communication...
My husband will love that one.

Brooke needs an upgrade...
I don't have much to say about that one.

Brooke (Hogan) needs a fairy godmother.
Brooke Hogan needs a lot more than a fairy godmother.

Brooke needs a middle name...
I already have one and it is Suzanne.

Brooke needs no microphone on Flikr...
What??

Brooke needs a boyfriend...
I don't think my husband would approve.

Brooke needs a bodyguard...
A favorite one.

Brooke needs a spanking...
Oh my!!

The majority of Brooke needs are about the following Brookes
Burke, Hogan, Shields and White (American Idol)
And they need alot from what I have read.

Try it out. It is fun!!

Gung Hay Fat Choy!!

2009-01-31T18:31:00.002-06:00

Happy Chinese New Year!!

Year of the Ox

Made in China

Loved in Texas

Lip Gloss!!

2009-01-23T18:18:00.003-06:00

I bought Olivia some lip gloss for Christmas but I forgot it until yesterday. Olivia loves lipstick and lip gloss. My mom told me she is going to be a little tart. Anyway, we were looking underneath Olivia's bed yesterday and found some lip gloss my mom had given her. When I saw it I remembered I had lip gloss for Olivia. So I found it at the top of the my closet (I am beginning to be like my mom because she would always find gifts after Christmas). I gave it to her and it has barely left her hands. She is constantly putting it on and wanting to put some on me. I think I have created a little lip gloss monster.

A Beautiful Day in Houston!

2009-01-19T18:18:00.010-06:00

Today was a perfect day in Houston. The sun was shining, there was a slight breeze, it was around 68 degrees and the best part there was hardly any humidity at all. I wish everyday could be like today.

Olivia and I got up today and went to the zoo with half of Houston. There weren't alot of people when we got there but when we left it was packed. I got out of the zoo parking lot and ran into a ton of traffic. I had to turn around because I think the MLK parade was not too far from the zoo. Anyway we had a good time. Olivia got to see alot of animals and ride the carousel twice. We got home and I thought she would take a nap because we walked for nearly 2 hours but she just played in her bedroom for an 1 1/2. We played a game of Chutes and Ladder and waited for Daddy to come home so we could walk down to the park. It was such a great day I didn't want to waste too much of it. Daddy got home so we walked down to the park and stayed for about an hour and on the walk home Olivia decided to cry the entire time. She was tired and she didn't want to walk...she wanted to be carried. Our neighborhood is very active with walkers and there were several out on our way home. Everyone was asking what we did to Olivia. It was all in fun but she was howling pretty loud. Of course the minute we walk in the house she stops crying. Well all I know is that it will be an early evening for Olivia.

Having fun on the carousel.

Petting the goat at the zoo.

Pretty girl!

Riding the horse at the park.

Leaving the park happy.

Flowers for Mommy!

2009-01-18T20:18:00.006-06:00

I got home from Disciple tonight and the first thing I heard when I walked in the door was, "Mommy don't move... don't go in the den." Olivia and Peter were upstairs finishing up getting ready for bed. They come down stairs and tell me to close my eyes and to follow them into the den. Well I get into the den and open my eyes and see beautiful flowers on the table. They ran errands while I was gone and bought me flowers... so sweet. Actually this is the second time they have done that for me. I just love them both so much!!

I am tired of Mommy taking my picture!!!

Live the Life Jesus Gave You!!

2009-01-16T11:13:00.004-06:00

I have been a little down lately and really throwing myself a pity party. The reasons aren't really important but how I handle them are important. I was reading a blog today and it is about a 7 year old little girl who is very sick and basically has been in the hospital since after Thanksgiving. Her mother is faithful and praises God everyday because things could be a lot worse. I admire her strength and her positive outlook on life. She bought her daughter a shirt that says, "Love the Life you Live" and when she held it up so her daughter could read it... her daughter said, "How about if it said 'Love the Life Jesus Gave You'." In that instant I knew I wasn't given glory to God in the wonderful life that He has given me. I have been so blessed with a wonderful family, husband, daughter, friends and the list goes on. Here is this little girl who has been poked and prodded for nearly 2 months and is very sick has a better outlook on life than I do. No more pity party. I am going to love the life Jesus gave me.

Wordless Wednesday!

2009-01-14T20:36:00.002-06:00

New Camera!!

2009-01-13T21:32:00.004-06:00

Pictures with my new camera!

Olivia having fun on the slide today!

Olivia and Alexa with their matching pajamas!

I bought myself a new little camera. It is a Canon Power Shot SD1100 IS. I have gotten tired of lugging around our bigger camera. This one will fit in my purse or even in the pocket of my jeans (only if I don't wear my tight ones). I have somewhat figured it out and I do know that I will have to get a bigger memory card. I took 20 pictures and that was it so I am going to get a 4GB memory card.

Olivia and Alexa!

2009-01-12T17:27:00.004-06:00

About to embark on a stroll in the neighborhood with baby Alexa!

Princess Party!

2009-01-10T19:14:00.003-06:00

Olivia and the birthday girl, Madeline.

Decorating crowns and magic wands.

This morning we went to Olivia's friend, Madeline's, 5th birthday party that happened to be a princess and tea party. Olivia had fun jumping on the trampoline and decorating a magic wand and a princess crown. After all the crafts the girls sat at the table with REAL CHINA and proceeded to have tea, a snack and best part of course... cake and ice cream. The funny thing was the girls had the good china and silverware and the moms got paper plates and plastic forks.

Mr. Penguin

2009-01-09T20:44:00.004-06:00

This past Sunday after church and Sunday School, Olivia and went to the grocery store. We were going down the 1/2 price Christmas aisle and she spotted a penguin stuffed animal. She asked if she could have it and of course, I said yes after I saw the $ .89 price tag. She has barely left this penguin out of her sight. I think today is the first day that she didn't take it with her when she got out of bed. This evening when we were walking down the hall to go take a bath she asked about her penquin. She plays with him more than she has played with her Christmas presents. If I would have known that, I would have just gotten the penguin for her and nothing else. She wouldn't have missed a thing and I would have a few more dollars in my pocket.

Facebook!!

2009-01-09T17:39:00.002-06:00

I am officially on Facebook. I wasn't going to do it but for some reason recently I have been hearing alot about it. I have seen blogs that talk about it; I have been in line at the store and have heard people talking about their facebook and my husband has told me several of his friends from high school have found him (I didn't know he had a facebook). So I thought I would sign up (like I don't sit at the computer enough during the day). So far I have found several friends and I can't wait to find more.

Wordless Wednesday!

2009-01-07T19:53:00.000-06:00

Movie Monday!

2009-01-05T16:30:00.004-06:00

Today Olivia and I met Sherri, Zoe and Ruth at the movies to watch "The Tale of Despereaux". It was very sweet little movie but there were a few parts that Olivia didn't like so much. It was part when the rats were being shown in the dungeon and Olivia looks over at me and says, "Mommy I don't like this movie." I put her in my lap and about 15 minutes later she is sitting by herself again.

Today has been a very dreary day. It is about 50 degrees and the sun has not come out at all. After the movie we got home and Olivia and I both took a little nap. She starts back to school tomorrow and I am so excited about getting back on a routine. It feels like it has been forever since I have dropped her off at school and I have worked more than a day or two a week. I love the holidays but it is nice for everything to get back to normal.

New Year's Eve Photos

2009-01-03T08:48:00.005-06:00

We spent New Year's Eve at the Sakson household. They had invited over some neighbors that we knew and Ruth's friend Jim (another Hong Kong exchange student). It was a great time and the food was wonderful!!!

Olivia and Zoe working on their watercolors.

Sweet girls!!!

Olivia loves sitting in the papasan chair and playing the piano so much that she didn't want to share with Zoe.

We had a champagne toast about 2 hours before midnight because we knew we would be there when the new year rang in. So we toasted early and the girls got to drink water out of plastic wine glasses. They must have filled their glasses 7 or 8 times. Then over the course of the next hour they both went to "tee tee" about 3 times each.

Zoe and Olivia have matching shirts that say "Made in China" on the front and "Loved in Texas" on the back. Olivia wore hers but Zoe didn't. They never seem to wear them at the same time. I think it has something to do with their mommies.

Ruth and Jim playing Guitar H*ro. Jim had never played it before and he "Rocked". Kids and teenagers seem to be able to pick things up so much faster than slightly :-) older people.

Olivia and Zoe with their guitars.

The ball dropping in Times Square!

Happy 2009!!!

Happy New Year's!!!

2009-01-01T08:42:00.003-06:00

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!!

I hope everyone's 2009 will be Blessed and Prosperous!!!

Guitar Hero & Missing Olivia

2008-12-30T19:10:00.006-06:00

Olivia has been at my parents house since Sunday afternoon so every evening Peter and I have been playing Guitar Hero and watching college football. I love playing Guitar Hero and I am getting pretty good. I even got an encore!! But it will have to stop tomorrow being an everyday thing because Olivia is coming home. I really have missed her alot. I just miss her presence. Peter and I have talked to her everyday and she is having and I quote, "Fun, fun, fun!" She told my mom that she wanted to stay 5 more days. I don't think she understands the concept of 5 more days but she likes to put up her hand with her 5 fingers everytime she says it. My mom and dad had gone to Branson, Mo at the beginning of December and the local Disney store was having a sale so mom bought her an Ariel head she can play with and comb Ariel's hair, a Disney tea set and an Ariel to play in the bathtub. So once she got there she was having fun. Plus she loves to go outside with my dad and help him. So Peter is getting up in the morning and meeting my parents in Anahuac while I go grocery shopping for my green bean bundles I am taking to the Sakson's tomorrow night for New Year's Eve. I want to get to the store early so I won't have to battle the crowds. After work today I went shopping at the store and purchased $511 worth of clothes for $207. They are having their annual New Year's Day sale on Thursday and I get to shop early and get all the discounts. I am going in for a little while on that day so if there is anything left I may buy more. I know I must have missed something.

I hope everyone has a Wonderful and Safe New Year's Eve!!

Bedtime Stories

2008-12-28T17:14:00.004-06:00

Peter and I went to see the new Adam Sandler movie, B*dtime St*ries. It was very cute and definitely a family movie. No cussing, violence or sex scenes. I would have taken Olivia. My only gripe is for the people that get to the movie at or after the time the movie is suppose to start. The theatre was packed and there were people asking other people to move down or to move to a totally different row because they were late and they wanted to sit with their party. Granted the majority of the people had kids and I can understand wanting to sit with my child but they could have gotten to the theatre on time. This man went down a couple of rows asking people who they were with and if they could move so his family could sit down. It was very uncomfortable to watch. He was basically standing over people asking. He went down about 3 rows before he found some spaces and then asked these 2 young girls to move to a different row so his family could sit together. It was so rude. The movie had not started but the lights were about to go down and the previews were about to start. As far as I am concerned the movie starts with the previews. I get to the movies at least 20 minutes ahead of time so I can get the seat I want. I don't want someone coming in and asking me to move because they were late. It is very irritating. I am an on time person and even if I wasn't on time I would never ask someone to move because I was late.

Introducing Alexa!

2008-12-26T10:05:00.003-06:00

Alexa!

This morning Olivia and I got on the computer to find a name for her new baby. Yesterday she wanted to call her Olivia but I told her she already had a baby named Olivia. So I find baby names and start with "A" and tell her quite a few names and was about to go to the "B's" when she said she wanted to name her Alexa. Zoe's middle name is Alexa. I am not sure if Olivia knows that are not but I couldn't believe that Alexa was the name she picked.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T08:20:00.012-06:00

We had a wonderful Christmas!!! My parents, brother and his family and my cousin and her husband all came over to my house for Christmas. This is the first year I have ever had a holiday at my house. I felt like such an adult. My mom made her famous gumbo for lunch and it was delicious. We have so much food left over and I have no idea what to do with it. I really don't want to eat it. Peter made it worse by bringing food home from church. On Christmas Eve day none of the ministers and people helping with the services leave the church for lunch or dinner so people send food for everyone. Since Peter is in charge of worship he gets to bring all the food home. We have about 5 bags of chips, tamales, ham and the list goes on not counting the chicken spaghetti I had made for Christmas Eve and gumbo and pie and more. I gained 5 more lbs just thinking about and listing all the food.

After our lunch a lot of us sat around and talked. Peter and Jared played XBox, Olivia bossed Joel around and made him play with her and my brother and dad fell asleep. Once everyone woke up Peter got the Wii out and we all piled in the den and played and watched the Wii. The guys first played baseball and boxed and then Guitar Hero. Almost everyone had a turn at the guitar. It is a lot of fun. I am not very good at it but I do ok. After playing Guitar Hero I got out the Fit games and we hoola hooped; ski slalomed and skied. It was so funny watching everyone. When my mom skied she thought all she had to do was just ski straight down. She didn't realize she had to go in between the gates. It was such a fun day.

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!!

Olivia & her "Bitty Baby" from Santa Claus

Putting her baby to bed.

Silly girl!

The Miller family

Rodney & Poppy sleeping after lunch.

Olivia & "her" Jo-el

Peter & Jared playing Wii baseball.

Olivia & Joel putting Olivia's castle together.

Thanks Uncle Rodney, Aunt Theresa, Justin, Joel & Jared

Joel, Jared, Olivia & Justin - The Grandkids

Christmas Eve!!

2008-12-25T09:02:00.005-06:00

Before going to our Christmas Eve service.

Poppy, Olivia and Mo

Olivia, Zoe & Ruth

The Saksons came over before our Christmas Eve service so Olivia and Zoe could exchange gifts. Olivia got the Ariel pj's that she is wearing in the pictures. Thanks Zoe!!!

Olivia and Fancy Nancy.

Thanks MeMaw & PawPaw!

Mo & Poppy got Olivia a star necklace.

The story behind the necklace is... I picked up Olivia on the last day of school and on the door there was a list of things that the kids wanted from Santa Claus. I looked for Olivia's name and beside it was a star. I thought that was a little strange. So in recent conversations with her I would say something about Santa and she would tell me he is bringing her a star. I am really not sure why she wants a star but I think she has heard the story of Jesus in Sunday School and at Day School so I think the star that the Wise Men followed to Jesus has something to do with it. So I told my Mom about it and she got Olivia a star necklace and she was so excited it. She told me she got her star for Christmas. So sweet!!

Olivia and her Ariel doll that we got her while we were at Epcot this past September for the Food and Wine Festival.

Mo & Poppy got Olivia a cradle for the "Bitty Baby" that Santa is getting her.

Olivia and her new Princess robe.

Peter and I each have a robe and we always have them on in the mornings so for the past couple of months Olivia has been wanting a robe.

Is it Christmas yet?

2008-12-13T18:49:00.007-06:00

I was just getting off the computer from posting my last post and Olivia came up to me and said, "Is it Christmas yet?" This is probably the 5th or 6th time she has asked me that since we put the Christmas tree up last weekend and she found presents under it. When she saw the presents the first thing she asked was, "Can I open my presents now?" I have had to warn her a couple of times that if there are any presents opened then Santa will not come visit her. I know I'm a terrible :-) mom but I don't want her to spoil her Christmas.

A Fun Saturday!

2008-12-13T18:32:00.006-06:00

This morning while we were waiting for cookies to bake Olivia decided that her tricycle needed an oil change.
My sweet baby girl!!!

In an attempt to stay busy today, Olivia and I decorated paper bag puppets. She got these for her birthday this past June. I put almost all of her presents in a closet and every so often we will take one out and play with it. She got so much I didn't want to overwhelm (spoil) her with them all at once. Olivia did a cow and I did an elephant. It was a fun plus she loves to do crafts.

After the cookies cooled and Daddy got back from running errands we each got to decorate two Ariel cookies. I have an Ariel cookie cutter and when the cookies came out of the oven they looked nothing like Ariel. We had fun decorating them and Olivia like eating the icing, of course. Next Saturday will be my big cookie and chocolate covered pretzels baking day for Christmas.

Angels Among Us

2008-12-11T14:50:00.004-06:00

I have two stories to tell. The first one just happened today. I got to work around 10:00 and talked to some of the ladies for a few minutes and then went upstairs to my cubby hole. About 10 minutes later one of the ladies buzzed Lisa (manager) breathlessly and told her some man just stole her (Lisa’s) purse. The owner, Lisa and I run downstairs. What happened was when Lisa came into the store she put her purse on the cash wrap. A man came in and one of the ladies asked him if he needed any help… well the next thing they knew he had grabbed Lisa’s purse and ran out the door. One of the customers saw him do it and ran after him and got the license plate # of the stolen truck he was in. One of the first things I thought was what if Lisa’s purse was not sitting on the counter. Would he have demanded money from the cash drawer? The police were called and we found out that the truck was stolen and it had a gun in it so we have no idea if he had it on him when he was in the store. We all came to the conclusion, even Lisa, that we would have rather a purse get stolen then someone killed. Someone was definitely watching out for us today.

The other story is one my Mom told me a couple of days ago and it brought chills. Not long ago my Mom’s best friend’s 2 ½ year old granddaughter, Abigail, was looking out the window. She called to her mother and told her to come here because her angel was outside. Well Juanita told her no she wasn’t going to look out the window. The little girl asked her a few more times and finally she looked out the window and of course saw nothing. The next morning Juanita asked Abigail what she wanted for breakfast and Abigail replied… milk and M&M’s. Juanita told her no but Abigail kept asking for it but of course didn’t get it. A while later Abigail and Juanita were looking at Juanita’s wedding album. They came upon a picture with all the bridesmaid and Abigail pointed to one of them and told Juanita, “That’s my angel.” Her angel died a few years ago from a brain aneurism and loved to eat milk and M&M’s for breakfast. I have always heard that children can see things (angels) because their minds are so pure. I love knowing and believing there are angels everywhere.

Snow in Houston?!?!

2008-12-10T18:06:00.002-06:00

It supposedly snowed today in Houston. It don't think it snowed in my part but it did sleet. I know north of Houston had some flurries.

I grew up 90 miles east of Houston and I can remember twice when it really snowed... meaning it accumulated on the ground and stayed with us for a day. I was in kindergarten and I remember building a snowman; my mom making snow ice cream and her putting plastic bags over our shoes so our feet wouldn't get wet.

Then it snowed when I was in 7th grade. I remember it was on a weekend so a few of my friends and I went walking around the town. What I remember most is busting my booty on a long wooden sidewalk. We were running down it and I fell and slid half way down the side walk. Good times!

Olivia will lay down and pretend to make snow angels. I can't wait for the day that she will be able to really make snow angels.

Olivia's new coat. The white looks good against her black hair.

Olivia trying to catch "snowflakes" with her tongue.

Isn't she just so sweet?

Daddy & Olivia outside looking for snow.

Oh Christmas Tree!

2008-12-08T18:21:00.004-06:00

Last night while we were decorating the Christmas, Olivia would sing, "Oh Christmas Tree... Oh Christmas Tree... Oh Christmas Tree... OOOOOHHHHH Christmas Tree" everytime she would put an ornament on the tree. I really have no idea where she got that from... for all I know I was singing that while we were putting the tree up or maybe she got it from school but she sang the song with the correct melody. She just amazes me.

Olivia and the Christmas tree skirt

2008-12-07T19:52:00.002-06:00

Santa Claus

2008-12-07T12:00:00.005-06:00

Today at church was our annual "March to the Manger". Most of the Sunday school age children bring an unwrapped toy for a local charity and then go to the manger and see Mary, Joseph and Jesus. It is great because we have real people playing them and they are told a little story and then sing a few songs. I teach a 3 yr old class and some of the kids didn't understand having to leave there gifts and got a little upset. They are so cute.

After Sunday school we had a luncheon so Olivia and I went because Peter was still in service. I enjoy being the preacher's wife the majority of the time but sometimes Olivia and I have to do a lot of things by ourselves because Peter is busy. Anyway, Santa made an appearance so I got a picture of Olivia with him. I am so glad because that means we don't have to go to the mall. She had her picture taken last week but I don't get a cd with the pictures I order and I like to put a picture of Olivia with Santa on the blog. I hope to get the Christmas tree up today. We bought a new one yesterday because our pre-lit tree's lights went out last year and Hobby Lobby was having a great sale on trees. So once Olivia gets up from her nap I hope to get it up and decorated. Next weekend we are making Christmas cookies so I will post pictures once we are done.

Thanksgiving, Book Fair & 9th Wedding Anniversary

2008-12-06T17:10:00.006-06:00

I have been wanting to post for the past week but I couldn't find my cord to download my pictures. I finally found it today in my car of all places.

We had Thanksgiving at Peter's parents in Oklahoma and had a wonderful time. The weather was great so we got to get out and do some fun stuff. Last year the temperature didn't get out of the 30's or 40's so we stayed pretty much the entire time.

We went to bricktown and rode the boat down the riverwalk and ate at Toby Keith's restaurant. We got to see Peter's sister, his nephew and wife and 3 great nephews. It was a good time. Sorry for the short post I had so much more in my head to write a week ago. Enjoy the pictures.

Olivia's Day School Book Fair

This past week was Olivia's day school book fair. It was a lot of fun. Olivia got her picture taken with Santa Claus and on the last night there was a pizza party for pirates and mermaids. Ariel put in an appearance and sang a couple of songs.

Our 9 Year Wedding Anniversary

December 4th was our 9th year wedding anniversary. This is my favorite picture of our entire wedding album. I don't have a scanner so I had to take a picture of the actual picture. I think it turned out pretty good.

I can't believe we have been married for 9 years. We have been through a lot together in those short years. From Peter going back into the local church just a year after we were married even though he said he would never go back into the local church and I said I would never be a preacher's wife (G*d sure has a funny sense of humor); trying to have a child for 3 1/2 years and nearly 2 of those years doing fertility treatments to deciding to adopt a child from China; finding out a month after receiving our referral for Olivia we were moving to Houston; going to China to adopt Olivia and then only being home for 2 1/2 weeks before moving to Houston; leaving a church that we were at for 5 years and missing everyone terribly once we moved to Houston; moving away from my parents just when we get Olivia; starting over in a new church; trying to figure out how to be a Mom and Dad to an 11 month old. We managed to get through all of that and more and still have a terrific marriage. I look forward to many more years with my wonderful husband.

We've been Elfed!!

2008-12-04T20:25:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Pictures of the Week

2008-11-24T17:43:00.009-06:00

We got an infant diaper in the mail so Olivia had to get her doll and put the diaper on. She is rocking her baby and humming to her like I do with Olivia nearly every night before bed.

Olivia putting her baby down for a nap in her bassinet.

Olivia riding her bicycle before the Saksons arrive.

The Saksons came over on Saturday night to discuss our Disney Cruise or just a trip to Disney World. I have a feeling it is going to be just a trip to Disney because a cruise is expensive at least the one that Will and I want to go on.

Olivia (Sleeping Beauty) & Zoe (Barbie Princess)
On the tv is OU beating Texas Tech. Boomer Sooner!!!

Zoe (Sleeping Beauty) & Olivia (Arial)

The two princesses with Prince Will.

Fun Weekend!

2008-11-16T19:21:00.006-06:00

Disney on Ice

Saturday we went to Disney on Ice at Reliant Arena. It was good but not great. It was mostly about "The Incredibles", a movie that Olivia has only seen a little bit of. The best part was we saw a friend of ours we haven't seen since we left Beaumont. Actually her husband is a preacher as well and the past couple of years she hasn't gone to the annual conference so I haven't seen her since we moved. They have since moved to another church. Peter happened to look to the left and Stefanie was walking up the steps to sit down with her son, Spencer, and her in-laws. Her husband, Todd, was in Africa on a mission trip. I got to talk to her for about a minute because the show was about to start. We also ran into friends from church and another adoptive parent that was a travel mate of my friend Sherri's. We live in a city of 4 million people and it is amazing how often you run into people you know.

Olivia as Dash Parr.

We only saw Cinderella two times. What a bummer for Olivia.

Mickey, Minnie, Pluto and Goofy

Olivia with the stale popcorn that cost $4.50.

Pharyn's Birthday Party

Sunday afternoon we went to Pharyn's 3rd Birthday Party @ Planet Funk Dance Academy. It was a lot of fun. I think the adults enjoyed it as much as the kids. We got to line dance and Jacel (Pharyn's mom) taught the guys a dance to "Beat It" that they performed at the end of the party. Yes... my husband participated in the dance. I adore my husband but the poor man has NO rhythm at all. PFDA offers HipHop classes on Monday nights and I talked with Jacel about going so we will be attending a class real soon.

The birthday girl!!

Olivia and Pharyn running around!

Peter getting ready to "dance".

Doing a little craft project.

Having fun!!

Sweet Olivia!

2008-11-14T18:43:00.001-06:00

Please Pray!

2008-11-14T14:58:00.004-06:00

Please for this family. http://www.lydiahope.blogspot.com/

They are in China and have turned down their referral due to the child being more developmentally delayed than what was given in her info. The CCAA is telling them they do not have another referral (paper ready child) for them while they are in China and will probably have to go home without a child and wait for another referral. I can't imagine having to go through that. Please keep them in your prayers.

Daddy will you sleep upstairs?

2008-11-10T20:26:00.003-06:00

When Peter got home tonight around 8:00 he went straight up to Olivia's room. She wanted to stay awake until he got home. When he got up their she asked if he would sleep upstairs. Of course he felt good because she wanted him to sleep with her. So he asked, "You want Daddy to sleep with you tonight?" Olivia said, "No I want to sleep downstairs with Mommy." So basically she wanted them to switch places. I thought it was sweet but I don't think Peter did.

Nia

2008-11-10T11:51:00.004-06:00

This morning I took a new exercise class called Nia. I read about it in the magazine called "More". The magazine for woman over 40. After I read the article... I got on my computer and googled it and found a studio in the Heights which is only about 15 minutes away if there is no traffic. Luckily there was no traffic this morning at 9:00. Here is a quote from the studios webpage, "Nia is a dynamic cardiovascular workout that stimulates and integrates your mind/body/spirit and leaves you feeling recharged, rejuvenated, and fully alive. Nia blends dance, martial arts, and healing arts (including yoga) to allow your dancer, athlete, warrior, and child within to expressively emerge." I had a wonderful time. I have been looking for some type of exercise that included dance because I love to dance. It is an hour long class and I was tired but exhilarated by the end of the class. Right now I could go to sleep. I get up in the mornings and walk on my treadmill but I have never been this tired before... but it is a good tired. The studio offers two free weeks for Houston residents so I am taking advantage of it and have signed up for 5 more classes. Here is the studios website http://niamoves.com/.

First movie!!

2008-11-08T17:14:00.003-06:00

Today we went to see "Madagascar 2 Escape Africa". This was Olivia's first movie at a theatre. She did good but during some of it she got bored and wanted to go home. We were not going home. She did finally get into it towards the end of it. If it would have been a movie about princesses she would have sat perfectly still for the entire movie.

Best Friends

2008-11-05T16:40:00.004-06:00

Today, Olivia told me I was her best friend.

I was sitting on the couch and she was on the floor at my feet. She hugged my legs and said, "Mommy, you are my best friend."

Melted my heart.

Just Pictures

2008-11-04T17:30:00.002-06:00

China Trip

2008-11-03T18:42:00.006-06:00

Today I was looking through our pictures from our trip to get Olivia. I still remember that trip like it was yesterday. After I looked at all the pictures I felt very sad. I think because she will be our only child and I am having a hard time remembering her that little. When I was growing up I always wanted 3 children. Adoption never entered my mind because I thought I would be able to have my own children. I probably would have been able to if I would have married in my twenties. I didn't get married until I was 32 years old and Peter and I didn't start trying to have children until I was 34. I know in my heart that God's plan for me was to adopt Olivia because I saw Him revealing His plan to me little by little but there are still days I wish I could have had a child.

Gotcha Day!

On the way back to the hotel. Olivia passed out while Brianna cried the entire time.

Playing with her stacking cups.

Bath time. Her big beautiful eyes look so sad.

My favorite picture of her while in China.

My second favorite picture.

Smiling and having fun.

She could sleep anywhere.

My sweet baby.

Comforting herself.

Those sad eyes again!

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-10-31T20:18:00.009-05:00

Tonight was Olivia's first Halloween to go trick or treating. We were new in the neighborhood last year and weren't sure if a lot of people trick or treated. Well we found out they do... so we couldn't for this year. We invited our friends the Dickson's over and Olivia and Pharyn had a great time. Mommy had a great time. Our neighborhood really goes all out for Halloween. Alot of the houses were decorated with skeltons, graveyards, pumpkins, spiders and the list goes on. If there was a witch or anyting that looked scary on the porch Olivia would not go up there even if Peter or I went up there with her. The majority of the time her and Pharyn would run up to the door and "fight" over who got to try and ring the doorbell. Most of the time they were both too short. We were out for about an hour and then we came back to our house so we could give all of our candy away. Thankfully there were still alot of people out because I wanted to get rid my candy.

Daddy & Olivia
Mommy & Olivia

Olivia chasing the black cat.

While we were sitting out front this black cat just walked up our driveway. It was really weird. I hope it isn't a bad omen.

Waiting for Pharyn to go trick or treating.

Pharyn finally made it.

Let's go trick or treating!

Tired after a long night of trick or treating.

Trick or Treating @ Church

2008-10-28T17:30:00.003-05:00

Today the children from Kingdom Kids got to dress up in their halloween costumes and go around the church office to trick or treat. I insisted that Peter take the camera to work so he could take pictures of all the kids. I can only say good things about the child care @ the church. Whether Olivia is in Day School or Kingdom Kids she gets wonderful care. She has learned so much in school and then in KK she is with the same 5 or 6 kids and the caregivers love them all. We are truly blessed to have this wonderful church family,

In Loving Memory

2008-10-27T15:56:00.005-05:00

My grandmother passed away this morning. Even though I knew one day she would no longer be with us it came as a shock to me. She died of a heart attack and that was just something I never thought she would die from. She was always very healthy. The only thing wrong with her was that she had demetia. She thought she was around 50 years old and if you told her she was 93 she would not believe you. My grandfather passed away in December of 2006 but she didn't know because in her mind he was always with her. I think it is going to be a shock to her when she gets to heaven and sees my grandfather. I can hear her saying, "Dennis what are you doing here?"

Dewberry Farm

2008-10-27T15:39:00.005-05:00

We went to Dewberry Farm this past weekend and had a good time. Dewberry Farm is in Brookshire and is about 50 minutes from where we live. I am the type of person that likes to be at an event or a place when it first opens for the day. It is usually not as busy or hot... so we got there when it opened @ 10:00. Olivia got to jump on some big "pillows", go down the slide, see a pig race, see some animals, chase after butterflies and go into a corn maze. We stayed around 3 hours. When we left we saw they were selling snowcones. I love snowcones. I remember growing up and riding my bike to get snowcones during the summer. Anyway this was the best one I have ever had because I got to put as much juice as I wanted on it. We got the ice at one place and then next to it was a little building with spigots all along the walls with the different flavors and you got to put the juice on your snowcone. It was great. I got my favorite.. banana and Olivia got strawberry. Daddy and Olivia were suppose to share but Olivia ended up eating it all.