9.30.2008
Loving Her and Her LAUGH!
Gracyn has a "fake" giggle when she hears others laughing, but this is Gracyn's REAL laugh, and I just love it. . .She and Peyton both have a "chuckle" sound to them! It comes from deep within their bellies! (Sorry about the lighting. . .we were having so much fun we didn't realize the sun had gone down!)
Stay tuned for more videos!
9.29.2008
You know you're a Mom when. . .
You know when you're a Mom when (in the last 4 days):
1. You have to keep notes on what to blog before they slip from your mind.
2. You've cleaned projectile vomit off the floor, toilet, shower curtain, and done a midnight feeding simultaneously. (Well, sort of. . .wash hands, bottle in mouth, back to cleaning.)
3. You've changed linen at least 2 times due to leaking diapers.
4. You start to love the laundry room because it offers soft, clean smelling clothes, and some peace and quiet. (Well, until they find you and want to help add clothes to the next load and you have to prop the 3 year old on the dryer, help the 2 year old onto the stool, and then SHARE the dirty clothes between them. GROSS)
5. You start to wander down the hall towards the kids' rooms, and when you get there, you haven't a clue why you were there. . .was it the socks you forgot, or the pink bow on your vanity (for Gracyn not me), or your watch, oh, wait, it was my head that I lost in my shower!!)
6. You ask your 3 year old who's becoming a big boy to promise you that he'll dance with you on his wedding day. And, then ask him a day later, who are you dancing with on your wedding day just to make sure he remembers!
7. You laugh when your 3 year old is playing bartender and calls himself, Chicky-Mon. (I call Gracyn "girlfriend" and "chicky" and Peyton "dude" and "little man" - hence "Chicky-Mon", no that's not a typo - Mon, not Man."
8. You wonder if you've sent Thank You Cards to friends and family, and then wonder as you're writing them, if you're actually writing them for the second time. (Yes, I've used a list. . .note to self, cross them off when done.)
9. You are still eating York Peppermint Patties daily. At least 1, but you know some days call for 3. And no, this is like the 3rd bag, not the one that I wrote about a month ago. My cousin Ang welcomed me home from Taiwan with TREATS!
10. You ENJOY 5 minutes to yourself by eating Milano's and NONFAT Milk - great pairing, I know. (Again, a treat from Ang. The NONFAT is a must since I'd rather blog than get on the treadmill!)
And last but not least, #11: You understand and appreciate why all the moms who are in the post-adoption phase and home don't blog as often anymore.
So here's some questions for those of you who are adjusting to life as Mom to one, or two, or three, or four or more (I'd love a good laugh when I read the comments!):
1. When they're all yelling or screaming do you just wait for it to stop, do you try the calm approach, or do you sometimes just yell to get their attention?
2. When you need time to yourself, do you take an extra long shower, hide in the bathroom reading Adoptive Families, or take your sweet time folding laundry?
3. When you can't remember if you've already lathered up and been in the shower so long washing it off, do you get out, or lather up again just be sure? (Oh, and what if both of your kids are standing at your door less shower?)
4. Do you own a hand vac, swiffer vac, or some comparable item and if so, how many times do you sweep/vacuum a day?
5. Do you bribe your children? If so, what else besides tootsie rolls and Red Reward Stars work?
6. Do you take your kids grocery shopping, and am I the only one who has to open brand new items I have yet to pay for before we get to the checkout stand?
7. Do you use those canvas Recycle Bags or do you actually remember to bring your own Brown Bags so you can save 5 cents per bag? I save them, but they never make it to the store! Even if they make it to the trunk, they don't make it in. . .
8. Do you ever have to ask your husband what you just said, or when his birthday is because you're still filling out paperwork? (DH's response: "What's your name again?")
Question for the Moms in waiting:
1. Would you rather see posts of photos or words from us moms who have just come home? What do you want to read? About the kids, the transition, or about DH?
Disclaimer:
This post was meant to be honest, and funny, not depressing. . .just in case my writing has gone down the toilet I thought I better add this note. Life is wonderful. I am so blessed, and I would never trade this for the world.
Proof:
I allowed someone to take pictures of me wearing clothes that don't match, with hair that's messy, and NO LIPSTICK?! They're real pictures folks. . .of real life and my messy garage!
I must comment here that we were just given promo umbrellas, and my aunt, our photographer, since I'm not in many photos, wanted us to do a funny shot.
1. You have to keep notes on what to blog before they slip from your mind.
2. You've cleaned projectile vomit off the floor, toilet, shower curtain, and done a midnight feeding simultaneously. (Well, sort of. . .wash hands, bottle in mouth, back to cleaning.)
3. You've changed linen at least 2 times due to leaking diapers.
4. You start to love the laundry room because it offers soft, clean smelling clothes, and some peace and quiet. (Well, until they find you and want to help add clothes to the next load and you have to prop the 3 year old on the dryer, help the 2 year old onto the stool, and then SHARE the dirty clothes between them. GROSS)
5. You start to wander down the hall towards the kids' rooms, and when you get there, you haven't a clue why you were there. . .was it the socks you forgot, or the pink bow on your vanity (for Gracyn not me), or your watch, oh, wait, it was my head that I lost in my shower!!)
6. You ask your 3 year old who's becoming a big boy to promise you that he'll dance with you on his wedding day. And, then ask him a day later, who are you dancing with on your wedding day just to make sure he remembers!
7. You laugh when your 3 year old is playing bartender and calls himself, Chicky-Mon. (I call Gracyn "girlfriend" and "chicky" and Peyton "dude" and "little man" - hence "Chicky-Mon", no that's not a typo - Mon, not Man."
8. You wonder if you've sent Thank You Cards to friends and family, and then wonder as you're writing them, if you're actually writing them for the second time. (Yes, I've used a list. . .note to self, cross them off when done.)
9. You are still eating York Peppermint Patties daily. At least 1, but you know some days call for 3. And no, this is like the 3rd bag, not the one that I wrote about a month ago. My cousin Ang welcomed me home from Taiwan with TREATS!
10. You ENJOY 5 minutes to yourself by eating Milano's and NONFAT Milk - great pairing, I know. (Again, a treat from Ang. The NONFAT is a must since I'd rather blog than get on the treadmill!)
And last but not least, #11: You understand and appreciate why all the moms who are in the post-adoption phase and home don't blog as often anymore.
So here's some questions for those of you who are adjusting to life as Mom to one, or two, or three, or four or more (I'd love a good laugh when I read the comments!):
1. When they're all yelling or screaming do you just wait for it to stop, do you try the calm approach, or do you sometimes just yell to get their attention?
2. When you need time to yourself, do you take an extra long shower, hide in the bathroom reading Adoptive Families, or take your sweet time folding laundry?
3. When you can't remember if you've already lathered up and been in the shower so long washing it off, do you get out, or lather up again just be sure? (Oh, and what if both of your kids are standing at your door less shower?)
4. Do you own a hand vac, swiffer vac, or some comparable item and if so, how many times do you sweep/vacuum a day?
5. Do you bribe your children? If so, what else besides tootsie rolls and Red Reward Stars work?
6. Do you take your kids grocery shopping, and am I the only one who has to open brand new items I have yet to pay for before we get to the checkout stand?
7. Do you use those canvas Recycle Bags or do you actually remember to bring your own Brown Bags so you can save 5 cents per bag? I save them, but they never make it to the store! Even if they make it to the trunk, they don't make it in. . .
8. Do you ever have to ask your husband what you just said, or when his birthday is because you're still filling out paperwork? (DH's response: "What's your name again?")
Question for the Moms in waiting:
1. Would you rather see posts of photos or words from us moms who have just come home? What do you want to read? About the kids, the transition, or about DH?
Disclaimer:
This post was meant to be honest, and funny, not depressing. . .just in case my writing has gone down the toilet I thought I better add this note. Life is wonderful. I am so blessed, and I would never trade this for the world.
Proof:
I allowed someone to take pictures of me wearing clothes that don't match, with hair that's messy, and NO LIPSTICK?! They're real pictures folks. . .of real life and my messy garage!
I must comment here that we were just given promo umbrellas, and my aunt, our photographer, since I'm not in many photos, wanted us to do a funny shot.
9.27.2008
9.26.2008
While it's raw and real. . .
I've promised myself that I would post the good and the challenging parts of our journey. I have some great new photos I'd love to blog, but while it's minutes raw, and very real, I wanted to write about a challenging part of our journey.
When we picked up Gracyn she wanted nothing to do with me. Since we've come home, she's attached to me, and will sometimes go to Gong-Gong, but will only go to DH for play time, not comforting.
Tonight, we tried to let DH put her to bed, but instead she refused him, took a bottle and fell asleep on her own. She ended up waking up 3 times in less than 2 hours. The last time she woke up, I went with my gut. No bottle. No leaving her in the crib while I tried to soothe her. I picked her up, held on tight to her wrangling body, her sticky and wet head cradled in my arm, and let her cry it out. I kept telling her, "Mommy is here. You're going to be okay," over and over again. She was thrashing around, fighting me, and then while holding her, I sat in front of a fan. I cooled us both off. A wise mommy once said walking out into the cold worked. It's still too hot here, so I resorted to the fan. I let her wiggle out of my arms as I continued to brush her hair away from her sweaty Little head, and then she stopped crying, looked at me, and smiled. And then she giggled when she felt the fan hit her. It was like she had no idea what we had just been through.
I've resorted to her bottle for comfort time and time again. I think I'm going to start trying to comfort her with my arms. She smiles almost all day. The car seat is still a little bit of challenge, but when she's tired, she wants a bottle, takes me by the hand and either takes me to her crib or the couch. She won't let me really hold the bottle, but she always makes eye contact and wants me to soothe her by rubbing her hands, arms, feet, and legs. I've been trying to let her bond with Daddy, but for sleep time and comforting, nothing is working. It's too painful to listen to her scream in terror, and I don't want her to think I've left her. This was the first night she went to sleep sad, and she didn't sleep well. Never again.
I had a hard time when she was rejecting me. . .then I thought it was hard because I couldn't and still haven't had a good night's rest. . .then I read a blog (linked to Hannah Claire's) and how the daughter won't even let her Mommy carry her. I think it would still be harder on me if she didn't want me or I couldn't soothe her. Tonight when DH couldn't calm her down, Gong-Gong tried. . .she still continued to scream and cry. I walked in, held her and within a few seconds, she instantly calmed down and fell back asleep. I'm blessed, yes tired too, but still blessed that at least she will let me comfort her. I think bed time is the most challenging for our transition. I think her age, and level of attachment to her foster family has a lot to do with it. I prayed for a child who was attached to her family so she'd have the ability to transfer that love and attachment. I hadn't prepared to be her sole source of comfort, especially after her rejection of me in Taiwan.
For those of you adopting toddlers,I think age plays a big part. I think that the number of living disruptions, level of attachment to their caregivers, personalities in part, and gender of primary caregiver will also greatly impact their transition at home. I believe Gracyn's foster mom did all her bathing, diapering, feeding, and comforting. Even in Taiwan when she didn't want me to carry her, she allowed me to bathe, change and feed her. I know her age has a lot to do with it, and I think the fact that she was relinquished at birth, and was hospitalized the first days of her life with no family to comfort her, has a lot do with her insecurity when she wakes at night, and her intense need for me to touch her.
If anyone has suggestions on how to encouraging bonding between DH and Gracyn, please leave comments. If you feel Gracyn on your heart, please pray for restful nights for her. Gracyn's smile makes me melt, and this week, she even lay her head down on my shoulder a couple of times. She always wants to be in my lap, and is happy to give hugs and kisses. When I take pictures of her, it's usually when she's super happy, and the story the photos tell is in fact real. She loves life, loves to explore, and even enjoys roller coasters and cookies. But after the challenging night I just had, that is also very, very real, while it was raw, I wanted to share this part of our journey too.
For Gracyn. . .for who she is today.
She is beautiful, she is my daughter, she is happy, she is sad
She is loving, she is sweet, she is innocent, she is mad
She hugs, she kisses, giggles and shows her love
She is a joy, a gift, and blessing from up above
She was loved by a family, she is loved now by us
She said goodbye to them, without ever making a fuss
She used to see me, my face would cause her fears
She let me into her heart, now I can dry her tears
She is His, we were chosen, we're now a family of four
She was broken, she's healing, we love her to the core
When we picked up Gracyn she wanted nothing to do with me. Since we've come home, she's attached to me, and will sometimes go to Gong-Gong, but will only go to DH for play time, not comforting.
Tonight, we tried to let DH put her to bed, but instead she refused him, took a bottle and fell asleep on her own. She ended up waking up 3 times in less than 2 hours. The last time she woke up, I went with my gut. No bottle. No leaving her in the crib while I tried to soothe her. I picked her up, held on tight to her wrangling body, her sticky and wet head cradled in my arm, and let her cry it out. I kept telling her, "Mommy is here. You're going to be okay," over and over again. She was thrashing around, fighting me, and then while holding her, I sat in front of a fan. I cooled us both off. A wise mommy once said walking out into the cold worked. It's still too hot here, so I resorted to the fan. I let her wiggle out of my arms as I continued to brush her hair away from her sweaty Little head, and then she stopped crying, looked at me, and smiled. And then she giggled when she felt the fan hit her. It was like she had no idea what we had just been through.
I've resorted to her bottle for comfort time and time again. I think I'm going to start trying to comfort her with my arms. She smiles almost all day. The car seat is still a little bit of challenge, but when she's tired, she wants a bottle, takes me by the hand and either takes me to her crib or the couch. She won't let me really hold the bottle, but she always makes eye contact and wants me to soothe her by rubbing her hands, arms, feet, and legs. I've been trying to let her bond with Daddy, but for sleep time and comforting, nothing is working. It's too painful to listen to her scream in terror, and I don't want her to think I've left her. This was the first night she went to sleep sad, and she didn't sleep well. Never again.
I had a hard time when she was rejecting me. . .then I thought it was hard because I couldn't and still haven't had a good night's rest. . .then I read a blog (linked to Hannah Claire's) and how the daughter won't even let her Mommy carry her. I think it would still be harder on me if she didn't want me or I couldn't soothe her. Tonight when DH couldn't calm her down, Gong-Gong tried. . .she still continued to scream and cry. I walked in, held her and within a few seconds, she instantly calmed down and fell back asleep. I'm blessed, yes tired too, but still blessed that at least she will let me comfort her. I think bed time is the most challenging for our transition. I think her age, and level of attachment to her foster family has a lot to do with it. I prayed for a child who was attached to her family so she'd have the ability to transfer that love and attachment. I hadn't prepared to be her sole source of comfort, especially after her rejection of me in Taiwan.
For those of you adopting toddlers,I think age plays a big part. I think that the number of living disruptions, level of attachment to their caregivers, personalities in part, and gender of primary caregiver will also greatly impact their transition at home. I believe Gracyn's foster mom did all her bathing, diapering, feeding, and comforting. Even in Taiwan when she didn't want me to carry her, she allowed me to bathe, change and feed her. I know her age has a lot to do with it, and I think the fact that she was relinquished at birth, and was hospitalized the first days of her life with no family to comfort her, has a lot do with her insecurity when she wakes at night, and her intense need for me to touch her.
If anyone has suggestions on how to encouraging bonding between DH and Gracyn, please leave comments. If you feel Gracyn on your heart, please pray for restful nights for her. Gracyn's smile makes me melt, and this week, she even lay her head down on my shoulder a couple of times. She always wants to be in my lap, and is happy to give hugs and kisses. When I take pictures of her, it's usually when she's super happy, and the story the photos tell is in fact real. She loves life, loves to explore, and even enjoys roller coasters and cookies. But after the challenging night I just had, that is also very, very real, while it was raw, I wanted to share this part of our journey too.
For Gracyn. . .for who she is today.
She is beautiful, she is my daughter, she is happy, she is sad
She is loving, she is sweet, she is innocent, she is mad
She hugs, she kisses, giggles and shows her love
She is a joy, a gift, and blessing from up above
She was loved by a family, she is loved now by us
She said goodbye to them, without ever making a fuss
She used to see me, my face would cause her fears
She let me into her heart, now I can dry her tears
She is His, we were chosen, we're now a family of four
She was broken, she's healing, we love her to the core
9.25.2008
Hannah Claire's Mommy is too sweet!
Tonight we came home and I saw a package on the counter. I always get excited when I see packages. I looked at the return address and it was the same street that my sister-in-law lives on but from a "baby company" - I opened it up, and to my delight, it was a SURPRISE Welcome Home Gift from the wonderful Sarah! Affectionately signed, "Hannah Claire's Mommy Sarah" - The clothes were custom made for Princess Gracyn, and the pictures don't do them justice! The texture of the brown corduroy is just yummy and will go perfect with her new Target Chocolate brown ugg-a-likes. (If I bought the Uggs, I had to forgo the Pediped polka dot boots coming in!) The outfit has an Asian Retro Flare which who could resist!
Thank you so much Sarah! My dad and DH think it's "so cool" and "so neat" that I meet such wonderful, sincere, and generous people "on-line" - My dad always asks where you guys come from? I think he's amazed that we know we may never meet in person, but we're still so connected.
We can't wait for what I'm calling HC-squared. . .Hannah Claire's Home Coming!
9.23.2008
We Welcome with Joy. . .
Gracyn Natalee - Gracyn turned 2 on the 25th of August and is 18 months younger than her brother Peyton. Gracyn's middle name changed a few times. Originally it was Leena, and then it was Rylee, and finally we settled on Natalee. It needed to have "Lee" in it for my mom, hence the spelling of Natalee.
Here is a picture of Gracyn's announcement that we ordered from tinyprints.com
About Gracyn. . .
Gracyn's daddy said we adopted 2 little girls from Taiwan. Gracyn being one, and Natalee being another - Natalee is Gracyn's naughty side! She's in her terrible 2's and likes to do things all by herself. She likes to buckle her car seat, although she really doesn't like her car seat. She likes to climb up the step stool to wash her hands, and is constantly pulling cups out to fill them up at the water dispenser, and enjoying a variety of snacks from the kiddie snack cabinets which are all at their level. The best way to keep her happy in her car seat or stroller is with cereal. Fruity cheerios, Corn Pops, Honey Nut Cheerios, Plain Cheerios, and Chocolate Teddy Grahams are amongst her favorite at the moment. She loves bath time, hates to have her hair blow dried, likes to have lotion put on, and loves to have one bow in in hair on her right side.
Gracyn imitates everything Peyton does, said "woof" for sure - great first word to remember, right? She's doing great with sign language, and loves her bottle. She like melons over citrus, hasn't figured out how to chew apples, likes to drink from a straw, and is great and pulling on your fingers to get you to go where she needs you. She whines if she doesn't get her way, has a feisty side to her (especially if tired), and prefers mommy to anyone else for bed time. She goes down easy. Put her in her crib with her bottle, rub her legs, feet, and tickle her hands and before you know it, she's in dream land. She still wakes up two to three times a night. Some nights easier than others. She loves to be hugged and kissed!
I feel so blessed to be Gracyn's mommy. She is so stunning. She has the sweetest smile, and the most beautiful eyes. When I was pregnant with Peyton I remember wanting a baby with big eyes, double eyelids, and long eyelashes. . . Well, Peyton as handsome as he is, looks just like his Daddy, but Gracyn got the eyes, the double eyelids, and the super long eyelashes! I told her this morning while she watched me put on makeup that I didn't get her big beautiful eyes, so I needed the mascara! She laughed.
Gracyn is a happy child. She has had her bouts with grief, and I'm sure there will be more to come. It's painful to watch, as there is nothing I can do to comfort her. She wants me to go away, but if I do, it makes it worse. When she finally gives in, she wants me to feed her a bottle, and usually she ends up falling asleep. She likes to play with Daddy, but doesn't like him to feed her or comfort her just yet. It feels like she's always been here, and it's amazing to think that I'm her third mother figure, but definitely her first mommy! She actually pushed Peyton off of my lap today and squeezed her little bum in there!
Is it hard? Yes. I think it's a combination of recovering from jet lag, the emotional ups and downs of the journey to Taiwan, and the sleep deprivation since she doesn't sleep through the night. Days are fairly easy, but at moments she can be very needy. Is it harder than I expected? No. Actually quite the opposite. Gracyn has really adjusted well to home, and to Peyton. When she had a little crying episode Peyton said, "I think she wants to go back to Taiwan." - He's so intuitive. When I asked him if he loved his sister he said, "Yes." - I was afraid to ask the next question, but I did. . .I asked him if he wanted her to go back to Taiwan and he said, "No." - He's so protective of her. If Gracyn cries because Daddy won't give her something she wants he tells Daddy he's being mean! LOL Funny how I'm never the "mean one" but between me and the DH, he's definitely easier on them!
Do I remember the wait? The extra months? Yes and No. I wish I had her home earlier because I do believe the months before they turn 2 are very impressionable. But the "wait" which I so carefully documented and tracked at one point I can hardly recall. . .The updates I prayed for? Can't even remember what I received and when I received it anymore. I do wish based on her age that we had the opportunity to see her via webcam, or we had received the disposable video camera back sooner. We just got her video back, and you can see so much of her personality and what she had been exposed to which could have helped her transition.
Gracyn was worth the wait, and I can't imagine having any other little girl here with me but her. Her personality fits right in - the gene pool is a match. Yes, I have two very strong willed, outgoing, affectionate love bugs on my hands! Luckily one likes to share everything, which makes them the best of friends. As an only child, to see the two them together makes my heart melt.
Here is a picture of Gracyn's announcement that we ordered from tinyprints.com
About Gracyn. . .
Gracyn's daddy said we adopted 2 little girls from Taiwan. Gracyn being one, and Natalee being another - Natalee is Gracyn's naughty side! She's in her terrible 2's and likes to do things all by herself. She likes to buckle her car seat, although she really doesn't like her car seat. She likes to climb up the step stool to wash her hands, and is constantly pulling cups out to fill them up at the water dispenser, and enjoying a variety of snacks from the kiddie snack cabinets which are all at their level. The best way to keep her happy in her car seat or stroller is with cereal. Fruity cheerios, Corn Pops, Honey Nut Cheerios, Plain Cheerios, and Chocolate Teddy Grahams are amongst her favorite at the moment. She loves bath time, hates to have her hair blow dried, likes to have lotion put on, and loves to have one bow in in hair on her right side.
Gracyn imitates everything Peyton does, said "woof" for sure - great first word to remember, right? She's doing great with sign language, and loves her bottle. She like melons over citrus, hasn't figured out how to chew apples, likes to drink from a straw, and is great and pulling on your fingers to get you to go where she needs you. She whines if she doesn't get her way, has a feisty side to her (especially if tired), and prefers mommy to anyone else for bed time. She goes down easy. Put her in her crib with her bottle, rub her legs, feet, and tickle her hands and before you know it, she's in dream land. She still wakes up two to three times a night. Some nights easier than others. She loves to be hugged and kissed!
I feel so blessed to be Gracyn's mommy. She is so stunning. She has the sweetest smile, and the most beautiful eyes. When I was pregnant with Peyton I remember wanting a baby with big eyes, double eyelids, and long eyelashes. . . Well, Peyton as handsome as he is, looks just like his Daddy, but Gracyn got the eyes, the double eyelids, and the super long eyelashes! I told her this morning while she watched me put on makeup that I didn't get her big beautiful eyes, so I needed the mascara! She laughed.
Gracyn is a happy child. She has had her bouts with grief, and I'm sure there will be more to come. It's painful to watch, as there is nothing I can do to comfort her. She wants me to go away, but if I do, it makes it worse. When she finally gives in, she wants me to feed her a bottle, and usually she ends up falling asleep. She likes to play with Daddy, but doesn't like him to feed her or comfort her just yet. It feels like she's always been here, and it's amazing to think that I'm her third mother figure, but definitely her first mommy! She actually pushed Peyton off of my lap today and squeezed her little bum in there!
Is it hard? Yes. I think it's a combination of recovering from jet lag, the emotional ups and downs of the journey to Taiwan, and the sleep deprivation since she doesn't sleep through the night. Days are fairly easy, but at moments she can be very needy. Is it harder than I expected? No. Actually quite the opposite. Gracyn has really adjusted well to home, and to Peyton. When she had a little crying episode Peyton said, "I think she wants to go back to Taiwan." - He's so intuitive. When I asked him if he loved his sister he said, "Yes." - I was afraid to ask the next question, but I did. . .I asked him if he wanted her to go back to Taiwan and he said, "No." - He's so protective of her. If Gracyn cries because Daddy won't give her something she wants he tells Daddy he's being mean! LOL Funny how I'm never the "mean one" but between me and the DH, he's definitely easier on them!
Do I remember the wait? The extra months? Yes and No. I wish I had her home earlier because I do believe the months before they turn 2 are very impressionable. But the "wait" which I so carefully documented and tracked at one point I can hardly recall. . .The updates I prayed for? Can't even remember what I received and when I received it anymore. I do wish based on her age that we had the opportunity to see her via webcam, or we had received the disposable video camera back sooner. We just got her video back, and you can see so much of her personality and what she had been exposed to which could have helped her transition.
Gracyn was worth the wait, and I can't imagine having any other little girl here with me but her. Her personality fits right in - the gene pool is a match. Yes, I have two very strong willed, outgoing, affectionate love bugs on my hands! Luckily one likes to share everything, which makes them the best of friends. As an only child, to see the two them together makes my heart melt.
9.22.2008
Me, the Smile Award? Are you tired Judy?
Judy over at PHL to TPE must really be suffering from her "puffy-eyes" because she just posted that I deserve the Smile Award. As Judy said, "Who, Moi?" Judy, you made my smile, so you definitely deserve the award. . .I thank our Heavenly Father and I thank you my dear friend! I needed to be lifted up today! He must have known.
Since one of the qualities Judy believes I have is honesty, I thought I'd also do a little update on Gracyn. I will follow up with a more detailed post, but for any of the moms out there waiting for toddlers to come home, please know that it is an entirely different experience. It comes with both challenges. . ."terrible 2" tantrums mixed with grieving, and reward. . .a sweet little girl running to you with her arms wide open, who's full of giggles when you pretend to put a fruity cheerio in her mouth, but instead pop into your own! I am loving being a mommy to two beautiful children, but no doubt, it's hard work! Thanks to the wonderful support system of bloggy pals, like Judy, I can't help but keep on smiling.
As you'll see below, I have no idea how I won the Smile Award. . .maybe I won for "making mistakes"? - I do that a lot. . .
In case you're wondering, here are the Smile Award rules:
1. The recipient must link back the the award's creator
2. You must post these rules if you receive the award.
3. You must choose 5 people to receive the award after receiving it yourself.
4. You must fit the characteristics of the recipient of the award.
5. You must post the characteristics of a recipient.
6. You must create a post sharing your win with others.
7. You must thank your giver.
Characteristics for the Smile Award:
1. Must display a cheerful attitude (not necessarily at all times--we are all human).
2. Must love one another.
3. Must make mistakes.
4. Must learn from others.
5. Must be a positive contributor to blog world.
6. Must love life.
7. Must love kids.
Five Fabulous Ladies who deserve the Smile Award!
Jackie over at Taiwan On: This is the lady who coined, "I survived Taiwan Lucy," and she survived by BELIEVING! She certainly endured one of the longest waits to bring home her daughter, and along the way, as challenging as it was for her, she cheered the rest of us on! See #5 characteristic above? That's Jackie for ya! She fits all the criteria, but is famous in world of blogging.
Tami over at till God brings them home: Tami is a woman of faith, and is as sweet as sugar! She, is a "gifty" (a word she coined) to us. She just came home with Noah, and was so honest about her fears. She made it home with His help and lots of prayer! She is a wonderful friend and always takes the time to comment on our blog! When you wonder if anyone is around, you can always count on Tami.
Deborah over at a DiDi for our Family: Deborah has lifted me up in prayer time and time again and brought many smiles to my face during my journey to Gracyn. She is a wonderful wife and dedicated mom to some awfully beautiful children! So dedicated that we miss seeing more updates, but we know it's because she's busy being a mom!
Lori over at Baby makes Four: Lori always finds time for her friends even when she's faced with tragedy. Lori has been so open and honest about her nephew Logan, and needs our prayers, and deserves to smile to soften the tears. She sacrifices herself to take care of others, and is such a dedicated wife, mother, sister, and aunt.
Sarah over at Taiwan Kiddo 2: Sarah was with me while I was in Taiwan. Not literally, but she stayed on line and chatted with me during some of darkest moments. She tracked down DH for me, she prayed with me, prayed for me, and lifted me up when I needed it most. She made me smile when I was covered in tears. She's uplifting, talented (she can sing!), and is all about serving Him. She contributes so much to the world of adoption! Be sure to check out all her sites.
Since one of the qualities Judy believes I have is honesty, I thought I'd also do a little update on Gracyn. I will follow up with a more detailed post, but for any of the moms out there waiting for toddlers to come home, please know that it is an entirely different experience. It comes with both challenges. . ."terrible 2" tantrums mixed with grieving, and reward. . .a sweet little girl running to you with her arms wide open, who's full of giggles when you pretend to put a fruity cheerio in her mouth, but instead pop into your own! I am loving being a mommy to two beautiful children, but no doubt, it's hard work! Thanks to the wonderful support system of bloggy pals, like Judy, I can't help but keep on smiling.
As you'll see below, I have no idea how I won the Smile Award. . .maybe I won for "making mistakes"? - I do that a lot. . .
In case you're wondering, here are the Smile Award rules:
1. The recipient must link back the the award's creator
2. You must post these rules if you receive the award.
3. You must choose 5 people to receive the award after receiving it yourself.
4. You must fit the characteristics of the recipient of the award.
5. You must post the characteristics of a recipient.
6. You must create a post sharing your win with others.
7. You must thank your giver.
Characteristics for the Smile Award:
1. Must display a cheerful attitude (not necessarily at all times--we are all human).
2. Must love one another.
3. Must make mistakes.
4. Must learn from others.
5. Must be a positive contributor to blog world.
6. Must love life.
7. Must love kids.
Five Fabulous Ladies who deserve the Smile Award!
Jackie over at Taiwan On: This is the lady who coined, "I survived Taiwan Lucy," and she survived by BELIEVING! She certainly endured one of the longest waits to bring home her daughter, and along the way, as challenging as it was for her, she cheered the rest of us on! See #5 characteristic above? That's Jackie for ya! She fits all the criteria, but is famous in world of blogging.
Tami over at till God brings them home: Tami is a woman of faith, and is as sweet as sugar! She, is a "gifty" (a word she coined) to us. She just came home with Noah, and was so honest about her fears. She made it home with His help and lots of prayer! She is a wonderful friend and always takes the time to comment on our blog! When you wonder if anyone is around, you can always count on Tami.
Deborah over at a DiDi for our Family: Deborah has lifted me up in prayer time and time again and brought many smiles to my face during my journey to Gracyn. She is a wonderful wife and dedicated mom to some awfully beautiful children! So dedicated that we miss seeing more updates, but we know it's because she's busy being a mom!
Lori over at Baby makes Four: Lori always finds time for her friends even when she's faced with tragedy. Lori has been so open and honest about her nephew Logan, and needs our prayers, and deserves to smile to soften the tears. She sacrifices herself to take care of others, and is such a dedicated wife, mother, sister, and aunt.
Sarah over at Taiwan Kiddo 2: Sarah was with me while I was in Taiwan. Not literally, but she stayed on line and chatted with me during some of darkest moments. She tracked down DH for me, she prayed with me, prayed for me, and lifted me up when I needed it most. She made me smile when I was covered in tears. She's uplifting, talented (she can sing!), and is all about serving Him. She contributes so much to the world of adoption! Be sure to check out all her sites.
9.20.2008
Double Trouble
Gracyn is just learning how to climb steps and hasn't yet mastered climbing up the slide backwards. She hasn't come to realize that her sticky feet will do the trick. Brother got overzealous, and that picture in the middle is right before he practically threw her down the slide - luckily even though mom had camera in hand, dad was on call for the catch. A much needed stunt spot guard for the 2 year old princess who's still learning how to manuever on the equipment.
Peyton loves "bossing" his little sister around, "Come on sister, let's do this" or "No, sister!" - He's also teaching her tricks that I wish I could reverse. From climbing chairs, to standing up in his chair while eating, to sliding upside down. I mean really, she can't slide down on her bottom yet, I doubt going backwards head first would be wise!
They're having a blast, and for the most part, play really, really well together. Peyton's not to rough, and Gracyn doesn't fight back (yet). Either way, together, they're trouble. She's ready to keep up, and he's got tricks up his sleeve. Watch out world! Here comes double trouble!
Peyton loves "bossing" his little sister around, "Come on sister, let's do this" or "No, sister!" - He's also teaching her tricks that I wish I could reverse. From climbing chairs, to standing up in his chair while eating, to sliding upside down. I mean really, she can't slide down on her bottom yet, I doubt going backwards head first would be wise!
They're having a blast, and for the most part, play really, really well together. Peyton's not to rough, and Gracyn doesn't fight back (yet). Either way, together, they're trouble. She's ready to keep up, and he's got tricks up his sleeve. Watch out world! Here comes double trouble!
Shall we play with the toys or in the toy box?
So the evening started out with this. . .
Why take out the toys to play when you can just hop into the tox box, and save yourself the time of cleaning up?
And since we don't actually sleep in our beds, why don't we just build towers out of the all the pillows our crazy mom has to have on each bed!
Why take out the toys to play when you can just hop into the tox box, and save yourself the time of cleaning up?
And since we don't actually sleep in our beds, why don't we just build towers out of the all the pillows our crazy mom has to have on each bed!
Proof of Double Trouble
He wants play dough, she wants cherrios. Solution - fill the play dough cup cake holder with cheerios. Proceed to serve to dog. Dump on floor, call dog to eat play dough laced cheerios so the swiffer doesn't have to work so hard.
Moon Day Information
Since some of you have asked about Moon Day, I thought I'd do a short post on it.
What I grew up knowing as "Moon Day" is the Mid-Autum Festival, which is usually celbrated the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, hence mid to late September.
Moon cakes, or "beng" (translation for cookie, really) as we call it, have different fillings, but are almost always made with sweet red bean inside, and some have egg yolks in the middle to represent the "moon." I, personally, have always loved them. Gracyn does too. Peyton pretended to like it, but didn't come back for a second bite, so I don't think he was too hot on it. I think he thought it was chocolate. LOL
Moon cakes are sort of expensive. About $15 for 4. Might be worth a try, and don't be surprised if your little ones have the acquired tastebuds for them! Gracyn was all over it, and every time she sees the tin can she asks for more!
Enjoy!
What I grew up knowing as "Moon Day" is the Mid-Autum Festival, which is usually celbrated the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, hence mid to late September.
Moon cakes, or "beng" (translation for cookie, really) as we call it, have different fillings, but are almost always made with sweet red bean inside, and some have egg yolks in the middle to represent the "moon." I, personally, have always loved them. Gracyn does too. Peyton pretended to like it, but didn't come back for a second bite, so I don't think he was too hot on it. I think he thought it was chocolate. LOL
Moon cakes are sort of expensive. About $15 for 4. Might be worth a try, and don't be surprised if your little ones have the acquired tastebuds for them! Gracyn was all over it, and every time she sees the tin can she asks for more!
Enjoy!
9.18.2008
Happy Moon Day!
Guess who likes Beng? (Chinese Moon Cakes) Miss Gracyn! She definitely recognized them and was anxious for me to open it up. She liked cutting it with the plastic knife, and gobbled it up! That's how we celebrate Moon Day. . .nothing fancy, just eating beng.
9.17.2008
Follow the leader. . .
How did you guys get up there? (Says Mommy)
Watch Brother. . .
Oh, like that. . .
See, I can do it too Mommmy! (Says Gracyn)
And for the record, we ran out of PJ's for Gracyn, so yes, she's wearing her brother's dragon ones. And no, Peyton's PJ's don't match at all. . .remember the post about letting everything go - well, that applied to the laundry too.
Watch Brother. . .
Oh, like that. . .
See, I can do it too Mommmy! (Says Gracyn)
And for the record, we ran out of PJ's for Gracyn, so yes, she's wearing her brother's dragon ones. And no, Peyton's PJ's don't match at all. . .remember the post about letting everything go - well, that applied to the laundry too.
Starring: PnG
Peyton sang while Gracyn danced. Peyton somehow put together the lyrics from Barney, Church, and School, and sang for minutes on end. . .I wish I had the video camera. It went something like this, "I love you, you love me, sing Hallelujah, Washed and Clean I've been redeemed. . ."
9.16.2008
Firsts for Gracyn. . .
Gracyn woke up with her first little cold (just sniffles) had her first well-check appointment. She weighed in at 22lbs, and measured 34.75 inches. (I think the height is off a bit because they had her lie down to do it, and we've measured her at home already.) Oh well!
She didn't like being there. Didn't help that the nurse wanted to take her picture as part of their new "checkup print-out" - she got a great picture and then came back because she said there was no memory card in it, but we saw the photo?!
After she was "inspected" and she cried hard, she actually put her head down on my shoulder willingly for the first time. Then, I asked her for a kiss, and she puckered up and gave me several! To top it off, since I was on a roll, I showed her my tummy, and said, "Where's Gracyn's tummy?" and she lifted up her dress to show me! That's major progress. . .
Of course we had to ruin the moment by getting her first shots in the U.S. We opted not to have her first lab experience and will hold off on the drawing of blood. She survied her shots, to only be followed by her first set-back this afternoon. She had her first real bout with grief since coming home. She took her first long nap, and when she awoke, she displayed the same behaviors as she did in Taiwan, pushing me away, pointing at me and waving bye-bye, which means for me to go away.
Once she woke up, she was fine. In fact, she seemed more attached. Again, she put her head down on me, doesn't like it if I carry Peyton, got really mad at me for not responding immediately to her, (she almost went for Daddy because she had given up on me, and then changed her mind), and insisted on Mommy for comforting at bed time even though I tried to introduce Daddy's touch tonight. She lets Daddy carry her, but if I'm around, it's a no go. We're going to work on it tomorrow some more. "Mommy, Daddy, Gracyn" bonding.
She didn't like being there. Didn't help that the nurse wanted to take her picture as part of their new "checkup print-out" - she got a great picture and then came back because she said there was no memory card in it, but we saw the photo?!
After she was "inspected" and she cried hard, she actually put her head down on my shoulder willingly for the first time. Then, I asked her for a kiss, and she puckered up and gave me several! To top it off, since I was on a roll, I showed her my tummy, and said, "Where's Gracyn's tummy?" and she lifted up her dress to show me! That's major progress. . .
Of course we had to ruin the moment by getting her first shots in the U.S. We opted not to have her first lab experience and will hold off on the drawing of blood. She survied her shots, to only be followed by her first set-back this afternoon. She had her first real bout with grief since coming home. She took her first long nap, and when she awoke, she displayed the same behaviors as she did in Taiwan, pushing me away, pointing at me and waving bye-bye, which means for me to go away.
Once she woke up, she was fine. In fact, she seemed more attached. Again, she put her head down on me, doesn't like it if I carry Peyton, got really mad at me for not responding immediately to her, (she almost went for Daddy because she had given up on me, and then changed her mind), and insisted on Mommy for comforting at bed time even though I tried to introduce Daddy's touch tonight. She lets Daddy carry her, but if I'm around, it's a no go. We're going to work on it tomorrow some more. "Mommy, Daddy, Gracyn" bonding.
9.15.2008
Please Pray for Logan
Please pray for Logan, and for his family. Logan is the nephew of Lori, who is the loving mom to Sierra and Samantha (Taiwan). Check Lori's blog for updates here. Logan is a sweet boy who has won the hearts of many, and just celebrated his second birthday. He recently went in for what was thought to be a minor surgery (same hydrocele repair Peyton had done) and it turned into an emergency procedure.
Thank you for keeping little Logan and Lori's family in your prayers.
Thank you for keeping little Logan and Lori's family in your prayers.
Thank you Caro Family!
Pam is a wonderful friend I met early on in our adoption journey. She has two beautiful daughters now. (Miah recently came home from China!) She's a professional shopper - just kidding! She has sent my kiddos so many care packages along the way, and here's the latest and greatest!! She brought back souvenirs from the Beijing Olympics, and isn't the Anne Geddes Lady Bug doll, just sweet?!
Thank you Caro Family!!! You have been a blessing to us.
Thank you Caro Family!!! You have been a blessing to us.
9.13.2008
Look who's driving now! (post picnic fun)
I know this looks like a "repeat" post, but look carefully at who's in the driver's seat! "Yes" - Peyton ran inside to go potty, and guess who slid over into the driver's seat?! Watch out Mr. P - Sister is just as silly as you are!
Picnic Fun
Today we went to a picnic that our agency hosted. We had fun with the Beauregard's, and I got to meet Staci and N in person! Keep your eye on Staci's blog because they should be getting a referral (or 2) soon!! Staci and her daughter are even more beautiful in person. N will make a GREAT big sister!
Gracyn enjoyed a lot of "firsts" with us today! The swing, a giant cookie,and the slide. . .it was a glorious day!
Swinging good time!
Cookie Love. . .
Sliding is fun too!
A New Big Brother, deep in thought. . .
Poor baby has had to do a lot of growing up in a very short period of time. When he's mad at me he tells me: "I'm going to tell Dad to call the police and they're going to come get you." This is the same kid who screams in Target, "You're making me nervous, Mom!" He's so protective of his sister, and so far he hasn't taken any of his frustrations out on her. He told her today, "Stay with us, you're our baby." So sweet. I'm so proud of him, and I love him with all my heart. I can't believe how much he's grown up in the last week. He's so helpful, even wiped her butt for a diaper change He adores her. . .so far. . .and she idolizes him.
Whatever Peyton does, Gracyn does too. They drink out of twisty top Propel bottles, they're in the refrigerator non-stop, they can polish off a can of Gerber "Cheetos" in nearly one sitting (they were exposed to these thanks to Sarah H. who sent them for Jo's care package, but Peyton opened 'em), they both like to dance around, and they both love bath time.
Benefits of having a little sister. . .Peyton will now eat his fruit and veggies (Yes, Jackie, it will work!), he can go to a public restroom and be helpful with his sister rather than be crazy and touching everything, he pretends to enjoy shopping because his sister does, and the best part. . .he goes to bed early.
With Gracyn, I just change her diaper, grab a bottle, put her down in her crib, give her a kiss, and soothe her until she drifts off. Once sister is in bed, big brother is exhausted from all the playing, and conks out on the couch with Dad. Which is when I hop on the computer on blog away! LOL
I thank God every day for my family. Peyton and Gracyn are such a wonderful sibling match. As an only child, I wondered how I would fare with 2. I'm still a little overwhelmed at moments, but sitting in the back seat between two silly kids trying to make me smell their stinky toes, or seeing them side by side in their stroller eating corn dogs at the mall, is all worth it. Did I mention Peyton lost his shoes at the mall?! Yes, he takes them off all the time, but this time, he took them off, we were wheeling away, he asked about them, and I was joking and said they were gone. I thought they were in the stroller basket. When we got to the car, no shoes. For real. . .DH went back to look, but apparently someone else really needed the tan crocs with missing heel straps (since they used to have fleece lining), and they were gone. . .oh well. He's 3-1/2 and that's the first pair of shoes we've lost. (Minus a bootie when he was a baby)
Gracyn enjoyed a lot of "firsts" with us today! The swing, a giant cookie,and the slide. . .it was a glorious day!
Swinging good time!
Cookie Love. . .
Sliding is fun too!
A New Big Brother, deep in thought. . .
Poor baby has had to do a lot of growing up in a very short period of time. When he's mad at me he tells me: "I'm going to tell Dad to call the police and they're going to come get you." This is the same kid who screams in Target, "You're making me nervous, Mom!" He's so protective of his sister, and so far he hasn't taken any of his frustrations out on her. He told her today, "Stay with us, you're our baby." So sweet. I'm so proud of him, and I love him with all my heart. I can't believe how much he's grown up in the last week. He's so helpful, even wiped her butt for a diaper change He adores her. . .so far. . .and she idolizes him.
Whatever Peyton does, Gracyn does too. They drink out of twisty top Propel bottles, they're in the refrigerator non-stop, they can polish off a can of Gerber "Cheetos" in nearly one sitting (they were exposed to these thanks to Sarah H. who sent them for Jo's care package, but Peyton opened 'em), they both like to dance around, and they both love bath time.
Benefits of having a little sister. . .Peyton will now eat his fruit and veggies (Yes, Jackie, it will work!), he can go to a public restroom and be helpful with his sister rather than be crazy and touching everything, he pretends to enjoy shopping because his sister does, and the best part. . .he goes to bed early.
With Gracyn, I just change her diaper, grab a bottle, put her down in her crib, give her a kiss, and soothe her until she drifts off. Once sister is in bed, big brother is exhausted from all the playing, and conks out on the couch with Dad. Which is when I hop on the computer on blog away! LOL
I thank God every day for my family. Peyton and Gracyn are such a wonderful sibling match. As an only child, I wondered how I would fare with 2. I'm still a little overwhelmed at moments, but sitting in the back seat between two silly kids trying to make me smell their stinky toes, or seeing them side by side in their stroller eating corn dogs at the mall, is all worth it. Did I mention Peyton lost his shoes at the mall?! Yes, he takes them off all the time, but this time, he took them off, we were wheeling away, he asked about them, and I was joking and said they were gone. I thought they were in the stroller basket. When we got to the car, no shoes. For real. . .DH went back to look, but apparently someone else really needed the tan crocs with missing heel straps (since they used to have fleece lining), and they were gone. . .oh well. He's 3-1/2 and that's the first pair of shoes we've lost. (Minus a bootie when he was a baby)
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