Alex graduated from high school this week- whoohoo! We're all very proud of him. And, I think all of us who attended the graduation should also be congratulated for sitting on metal bleachers, at the end of May, in Arizona, for 3 1/2 hours.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Congratulations to the Grad!
Alex graduated from high school this week- whoohoo! We're all very proud of him. And, I think all of us who attended the graduation should also be congratulated for sitting on metal bleachers, at the end of May, in Arizona, for 3 1/2 hours.
Day 1 of Month 9
Today marks the beginning of the ninth month since my LID of 9/26. The CCAA is supposed to make some announcement this week. There is much speculation on what this will be.
Will they talk about the slow down, about what timeframe their expecting the program to continue at or will it be more of the same "more families adopting domestically, less babies being abandoned." Although I'm sure both of these things are a small factor, I simply don't believe that there was suddenly such a drastic increase in domestic adoptions or decrease in abandonments to account for the quick change in timelines we've seen since Oct/Nov 2005.
I do believe the Hunan baby trafficking has caused the biggest impact on the slowdown but I would be surprised to see the CCAA talk about this.
There is also some thought that they might add some additional restrictions to adopting families with the families that are already LID having to meet the new criteria. The most talked about at this time is regarding weight.
I have to admit that I'm a bit nervous about what they're going to say. I know that if they're going to increase the timeline to some unreasonable wait (say 18-24 months) that it would be better to just know this but it would still be a huge disappointment to not have Ava home by the holidays.
Will they talk about the slow down, about what timeframe their expecting the program to continue at or will it be more of the same "more families adopting domestically, less babies being abandoned." Although I'm sure both of these things are a small factor, I simply don't believe that there was suddenly such a drastic increase in domestic adoptions or decrease in abandonments to account for the quick change in timelines we've seen since Oct/Nov 2005.
I do believe the Hunan baby trafficking has caused the biggest impact on the slowdown but I would be surprised to see the CCAA talk about this.
There is also some thought that they might add some additional restrictions to adopting families with the families that are already LID having to meet the new criteria. The most talked about at this time is regarding weight.
I have to admit that I'm a bit nervous about what they're going to say. I know that if they're going to increase the timeline to some unreasonable wait (say 18-24 months) that it would be better to just know this but it would still be a huge disappointment to not have Ava home by the holidays.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Disappointing day
This month's 9 day batch of referrals was definitely a let down. They went from June 7 to 15. The earlier rumors had anticipated that the CCAA would make it through June 20-21, completing two full weeks. Not great but it at least left hope that next month's referrals could make it through mid-July.
The Russian government announced today that "Moscow will stop foreigners adopting children outside officially registered agencies in a step toward limiting the number of children who leave Russia". I don't know what impact this will have on people who are currently in that program but I'm sure the families that are already in process have to be really worried. That's a terrible situation to be in. The Eastern European countries are not known for their compassion or understanding for either the children or families of international adoption.
So, compared to the terrible blow that the families waiting for children from Russia felt today, waiting longer to complete an adoption in China isn't that bad. Although the CCAA hasn't exactly been forthcoming with information, they do seem to want the program to continue and, even though the referral batches have been very small these past three months (5, 7, 9 days), they are, at the very least, still referring children.
The Russian government announced today that "Moscow will stop foreigners adopting children outside officially registered agencies in a step toward limiting the number of children who leave Russia". I don't know what impact this will have on people who are currently in that program but I'm sure the families that are already in process have to be really worried. That's a terrible situation to be in. The Eastern European countries are not known for their compassion or understanding for either the children or families of international adoption.
So, compared to the terrible blow that the families waiting for children from Russia felt today, waiting longer to complete an adoption in China isn't that bad. Although the CCAA hasn't exactly been forthcoming with information, they do seem to want the program to continue and, even though the referral batches have been very small these past three months (5, 7, 9 days), they are, at the very least, still referring children.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Secret Pal strikes again
My August Secret Pal sent us these great gifts this month. The hooded pool towel is too cute. It's a flower top. Along with the purple sunglasses, Ava will be set for some summer fun. The magnets are already on the frig. Thanks so much.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Two at the Zoo
My twin nieces, Kayla and Kenzie, turned two this week. We celebrated at the Zoo last Sunday. Of course it turned out to be the hottest day of the year so far at about 99 degrees. The girls were real troopers - unlike the adults who complained about the heat constantly- myself included ;)Wednesday, April 26, 2006
I've been reviewed
The September LID people have officially left the review room and entered the matching room. This is a big milestone. It basically means that my dossier has been reviewed and approved for adoption by the CCAA. Now it sits in the matching room along with all the dossiers for June, July, August & September. My best guess is that there are about 5000-6000 dossiers on top of mine. I'm still hopeful for a September referral but not holding my breath.Sunday, April 23, 2006
Two new US citizens
At our AZ FCC waiting families dinner last night, we welcomed home two of Arizona's newest residents and two very happy families. Both of the girls are so beautiful. It was so fun seeing the babies and hearing about the great times both families had in China.
Re-fingerprinting
I went in yesterday to update my fingerprints for my orphan petition (I171). Good news, they haven't changed.
Since my last appointment (Feb, 2005) took about 3 hours, I went in all prepared to spend my Saturday there. I had my book, notepad, sweater (incase in was cold inside) and a bottle of water. There was no one there. I walked in, filled out a quick form and was immediately brought back for fingerprinting. I should be good for another 15 months. I know I've said this before given this is my eighth fingerprinting since starting this adoption, but, this is my FINAL fingerprinting.
Since my last appointment (Feb, 2005) took about 3 hours, I went in all prepared to spend my Saturday there. I had my book, notepad, sweater (incase in was cold inside) and a bottle of water. There was no one there. I walked in, filled out a quick form and was immediately brought back for fingerprinting. I should be good for another 15 months. I know I've said this before given this is my eighth fingerprinting since starting this adoption, but, this is my FINAL fingerprinting.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Ladybug earrings
My parents gave me these adorable earrings for Easter. I figure I'll wear them to China then put them away for Ava.Pooh outfit
Found this Winnie the Pooh outfit at Mervyns last night. I've started purchasing 18 and 24 month stuff only- actually, I've been trying not to purchase anything but...Monday, April 17, 2006
Baby Mulan from my Secret Pal
My August secret pal sent Ava the most adorable Mulan baby doll
. She is so cute and I'm sure Ava will have lots of fun with her.My Pal also put together a booklet about the history of Mulan- what a great idea. She researched the story and compiled the info herself. Thank you, Secret Pal, for being so thoughtful. Once again, you've been a great pal!
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Easter Brunch
To celebrate Easter, my family went for brunch today at a golf club that's about five minutes from my home. It was a beautiful day
to eat outside. The twins just wanted to run free. They loved the ducks and huge fish that were in the pond. The carp were about 20" long and came right up to the edge of the pond to get food. I'm gonna guess that we weren't the first to throw them food.
Alex trying to keep hold of the twins, Kenzie & Kayla. They're a real handful these days.
Bianca and Paige had their face's painted.
This is my sister Sharon, brother-in-law Steve with their three children.
My mom and sister, Debi. We just found out this week that Ava's newest cousin, due in late August, is going to be a boy. We're all happy about this.
My dad with nephew Alex.
The girls with the Easter bunny.
to eat outside. The twins just wanted to run free. They loved the ducks and huge fish that were in the pond. The carp were about 20" long and came right up to the edge of the pond to get food. I'm gonna guess that we weren't the first to throw them food.
Alex trying to keep hold of the twins, Kenzie & Kayla. They're a real handful these days.
Bianca and Paige had their face's painted.
This is my sister Sharon, brother-in-law Steve with their three children.
My mom and sister, Debi. We just found out this week that Ava's newest cousin, due in late August, is going to be a boy. We're all happy about this.
My dad with nephew Alex.
The girls with the Easter bunny.Thursday, April 13, 2006
Flower cake
We're having a potluck at work tomorrow. Here is my addition. I haven't made a decorated cake in some time. Inside is a rum cake with custard and strawberries.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Is this really so wrong...
I'm at the nail salon for a pedicure. All the people that work at the salon I go to are from Vietnam. I've been going there a while so my nail girl "K" always asks about the adoption. Here's how the conversation went (after telling her that things were pretty slow right now):
K: You know, I have family in Vietnam. I'm sure they can find a baby for you. If my sister had 3 kids and I had none, she would give me one of hers- that's commonly done. It would be easy to find you a baby.
Me: Really... and how would I get her back to the US?
K: You can travel there to get her.
Me: Without a passport for her? Definitely illegal.
K: What if you travel there and take her back as your own (birth child)?
Me: YOU can travel there and possibly claim her as your own but I couldn't get away with that. Short of moving to Vietnam, I just don't see how this would work out. Even with the BM willingly giving up the baby, it would still be baby trafficing, if not kidnapping since I never legally adopted the baby. Thanks for trying to help but, no.
This had to be one on my more "interesting" conversations with K. Definitely a different perspective.
K: You know, I have family in Vietnam. I'm sure they can find a baby for you. If my sister had 3 kids and I had none, she would give me one of hers- that's commonly done. It would be easy to find you a baby.
Me: Really... and how would I get her back to the US?
K: You can travel there to get her.
Me: Without a passport for her? Definitely illegal.
K: What if you travel there and take her back as your own (birth child)?
Me: YOU can travel there and possibly claim her as your own but I couldn't get away with that. Short of moving to Vietnam, I just don't see how this would work out. Even with the BM willingly giving up the baby, it would still be baby trafficing, if not kidnapping since I never legally adopted the baby. Thanks for trying to help but, no.
This had to be one on my more "interesting" conversations with K. Definitely a different perspective.
Sunday, April 02, 2006
September DTC Pins
The September DTC lapel pins arrived this week. A big thank you to Jack for the ordering of the pins. And, a thanks to Phil for the design. I think they look really nice and as cloisonne pins, they will last forever.I look forward to trying to find other September Moongazers while in China.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Good luck card
I had to share this thank you card that my niece Paige drew for me. Of course, that's me in the middle (stunning resemblence- especially the Barbie like figure) holding Paige and Bianca's hands. The message is hard to read on this photo because it's in gold. It reads "Dear Aunti Shell, I love you so, so much. I hope you get your baby very, very soon. XOXOX Love, Paige"
Notice the ladybug and four-leaf clovers that are all around for good luck. They are just so sweet.
Friday, March 31, 2006
Stop to smell the roses
As is the case with all projects in my home, Sammy likes to play a part.
Here she is giving basic craft instructions before we get started.
Sammy is always willing to lend a hand, especially if it's sitting on top of the project you're working on.
The completed rose vases. They did a great job.
It is a craft night sleep over for my two oldest nieces, Paige and Bianca. In addition to the roses, they went on an Easter egg hunt, had their nails painted (orange), baked chocolate chip cookies, and colored Easter eggs- tomorrows lunch.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Helpful medical items for trip
The AZ FCC Waiting Families dinner was last night. Kathy, from FCCAZ , mother of two daughters from China and pharmacist, was our guest speaker. She handed out a great list of medical items to bring on the trip. Here is a shortened explanation of the items:
1. Antibiotics- 10 day supply. Some that do not require refrigeration include: Zithromax, Biaxin, Bactrim or Septra. Antibotics may be needed for ear infections, skin infections and pneumonia. Cefzil covers all three conditions.
2. Syringe- to give medications.
3. Elimite or Eurax cream- prescription cream to treat scabies.
4. Nix cream rinse or Permethin 1% - head lice. Nix is safe for children.
5. Acetaminophen drops- for an irritable child running a fever of 101 or more. Dose: 1 dropperful (1/2 tsp) for child 13 to 17 pounds. Can give every 4 to 6 hours. As a pharmacist, she DOES NOT recommend giving baby Motrin.
6. Digital Rectal thermometer- they're safer than glass and the ear thermometers are not that accurate on babies.
7. Benadryl- It is safe to give 1/4 to 1/2 tsp every 6 hours during the flight home if your child is not consolable.
8. Mylicon drops- for gas and irritability caused by stomach upset. May dose up to 20 x per day- very safe. One dropperful per dose.
9. Hydrocortisone cream 1%- may be helpful with rashes due to bug bites, new soap, clothes, etc. Do not use if rash looks infected.
10. Desitin diaper rash cream- diaper rash is dry, red, irritated skin- it's not weepy.
11. Nystatin cream or Lotrimin cream- may be used for diaper rashes that are red and weepy, often caused by a yeast infection. This often occurs when children are on antibotics.
12. Babylax or glycerin suppositories- useful for constipation. It may be helpful to try mixing apple juice in a one to one ratio with water before going to this extreme.
13. Saline nose drops- such as Ocean, Nasal or Ayr. For restoring moisture and for nasal congestion. It is especially helpful before eating or going down for a nap when the nose gets congested.
14. Pedialyte or KaoLectrolyte- formula substitute to use incase of diarrhea. NOTE: if you run out of pedialyte, you can mix a pinch of salt and 1/2 a sugar packet with water in bottle- will work the same. Kathy mentioned that she did this with all water bottles while they were in China.
15. Small ear syringe- Put one spray of saline solution in nose then suction the nose once (not repeatedly) with the ear syringe (smaller than the nose syringe) for nasal congestion.
16. Adult medications- if you are prone to sinus infections, it is suggested that you bring along a prescription sinus medication for the adults. Also, I didn't realize that prescription medications should all have a pharmacy label on them.
17. Eucerin, Cetaphil or Aveeno Baby lotion- Asian children have very dry skin so a good lotion is needed. Stay away from scented lotions.
Note: most of this list was provided by Deborah Borchers, MD
Another really helpful thing that Kathy provided was the web address for the Pediatric Medical Kit (formally the Texas Medical Kit). It costs $85 but includes presciption antibotics and scabby cream as well as a number of other over the counter items. I don't think you can order until you have a referral and some specific baby info. The address is: http://www.orphanallies.org
The last thing she handed out was a 6 page document that comes from the FCC website on "Medical testing recommended for International Adoptees" http://fwcc.org/pediatricexam.html Some really good info. Kathy suggested bringing this list to your pediatrician since most are not well versed in international adoptions and what they should be testing and vaccinating for. I've heard mixed views on re-vaccinating your child. She recommended it but this is something each family will need to decide.
1. Antibiotics- 10 day supply. Some that do not require refrigeration include: Zithromax, Biaxin, Bactrim or Septra. Antibotics may be needed for ear infections, skin infections and pneumonia. Cefzil covers all three conditions.
2. Syringe- to give medications.
3. Elimite or Eurax cream- prescription cream to treat scabies.
4. Nix cream rinse or Permethin 1% - head lice. Nix is safe for children.
5. Acetaminophen drops- for an irritable child running a fever of 101 or more. Dose: 1 dropperful (1/2 tsp) for child 13 to 17 pounds. Can give every 4 to 6 hours. As a pharmacist, she DOES NOT recommend giving baby Motrin.
6. Digital Rectal thermometer- they're safer than glass and the ear thermometers are not that accurate on babies.
7. Benadryl- It is safe to give 1/4 to 1/2 tsp every 6 hours during the flight home if your child is not consolable.
8. Mylicon drops- for gas and irritability caused by stomach upset. May dose up to 20 x per day- very safe. One dropperful per dose.
9. Hydrocortisone cream 1%- may be helpful with rashes due to bug bites, new soap, clothes, etc. Do not use if rash looks infected.
10. Desitin diaper rash cream- diaper rash is dry, red, irritated skin- it's not weepy.
11. Nystatin cream or Lotrimin cream- may be used for diaper rashes that are red and weepy, often caused by a yeast infection. This often occurs when children are on antibotics.
12. Babylax or glycerin suppositories- useful for constipation. It may be helpful to try mixing apple juice in a one to one ratio with water before going to this extreme.
13. Saline nose drops- such as Ocean, Nasal or Ayr. For restoring moisture and for nasal congestion. It is especially helpful before eating or going down for a nap when the nose gets congested.
14. Pedialyte or KaoLectrolyte- formula substitute to use incase of diarrhea. NOTE: if you run out of pedialyte, you can mix a pinch of salt and 1/2 a sugar packet with water in bottle- will work the same. Kathy mentioned that she did this with all water bottles while they were in China.
15. Small ear syringe- Put one spray of saline solution in nose then suction the nose once (not repeatedly) with the ear syringe (smaller than the nose syringe) for nasal congestion.
16. Adult medications- if you are prone to sinus infections, it is suggested that you bring along a prescription sinus medication for the adults. Also, I didn't realize that prescription medications should all have a pharmacy label on them.
17. Eucerin, Cetaphil or Aveeno Baby lotion- Asian children have very dry skin so a good lotion is needed. Stay away from scented lotions.
Note: most of this list was provided by Deborah Borchers, MD
Another really helpful thing that Kathy provided was the web address for the Pediatric Medical Kit (formally the Texas Medical Kit). It costs $85 but includes presciption antibotics and scabby cream as well as a number of other over the counter items. I don't think you can order until you have a referral and some specific baby info. The address is: http://www.orphanallies.org
The last thing she handed out was a 6 page document that comes from the FCC website on "Medical testing recommended for International Adoptees" http://fwcc.org/pediatricexam.html Some really good info. Kathy suggested bringing this list to your pediatrician since most are not well versed in international adoptions and what they should be testing and vaccinating for. I've heard mixed views on re-vaccinating your child. She recommended it but this is something each family will need to decide.
Saturday, March 25, 2006
6 months from LID
Tomorrow will mark the 6 month anniversary from my LID of Sept 26. The crappy thing is that I don't know if that puts me 75%, 50% or just 25% through the process. I could adjust to any timeframe if I just knew what to expect.
After spending the past four days at a Photoshop World conference in South Miami Beach with no computer access, I was looking forward to coming back to some good referral news. Instead, I'm hearing some nonsense about the next group only covering 5 days worth of LIDs- May 26 to May 30. Say it isn't so. If this turns out to be true, I can't even think about where that would put my referral timeframe.
The CCAA also posted that they've reviewed dossiers through August 31. This makes the referral rumors even more puzzling. If the reason things seem to be going slower is because there are more dossiers to process, doesn't it make sense that the back up would take place in the review room where they are actually reading and approving your dossier?? By the time a dossier goes to the referral room, it should be a pretty simple process. As far as there not being enough paper-ready babies, that seems pretty simple to fix as well. From everything I've ready, less than 10% of the babies in the SWI system are adopted. There definitely doesn't seem to be a shortage of babies.
I'm really trying to not let this bring me down but I can't help it. The process has already been so long and I need some good news for a change.
After spending the past four days at a Photoshop World conference in South Miami Beach with no computer access, I was looking forward to coming back to some good referral news. Instead, I'm hearing some nonsense about the next group only covering 5 days worth of LIDs- May 26 to May 30. Say it isn't so. If this turns out to be true, I can't even think about where that would put my referral timeframe.
The CCAA also posted that they've reviewed dossiers through August 31. This makes the referral rumors even more puzzling. If the reason things seem to be going slower is because there are more dossiers to process, doesn't it make sense that the back up would take place in the review room where they are actually reading and approving your dossier?? By the time a dossier goes to the referral room, it should be a pretty simple process. As far as there not being enough paper-ready babies, that seems pretty simple to fix as well. From everything I've ready, less than 10% of the babies in the SWI system are adopted. There definitely doesn't seem to be a shortage of babies.
I'm really trying to not let this bring me down but I can't help it. The process has already been so long and I need some good news for a change.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Horray for Zena!!
Three cheers for my August Secret Pal, Zena. Thank you so much for the absolutely adorable cheerleader outfit- it is so cute! The bath stuff will come in handy this evening as I sooth my sore back with a hot bath.
You have been a truly wonderful secret pal and I can't thank you enough for all the gifts you've sent over the past 8 months (has it really been that long).
Zena and I have been "chatting" since the early DTC days. We actually share the same agency, DTC day and LID day. With one big difference, Zena got an expedited referral so she already has pictures of her beautiful baby Katrena and will hopefully travel in about another month or so. I'm very happy for you and Tat. I know you guys have also waited a long time to be parents.
You have been a truly wonderful secret pal and I can't thank you enough for all the gifts you've sent over the past 8 months (has it really been that long). Zena and I have been "chatting" since the early DTC days. We actually share the same agency, DTC day and LID day. With one big difference, Zena got an expedited referral so she already has pictures of her beautiful baby Katrena and will hopefully travel in about another month or so. I'm very happy for you and Tat. I know you guys have also waited a long time to be parents.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
September Secret Pal Revealed
My wonderful September secret pal is Krista of "And baby makes three". If you haven't already, check out Krista's site to see referral pictures of her beautiful daughter, Becca.
Krista, thank you so much for all the wonderful, thoughtful gifts you have sent over the past seven months. You have been so generous and I love all the gifts you've sent. This month is no exception. Check out the adorable baby doll below. Ava is going to love her.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Snow Day
Yesterday marked the end of 143 days of no rain in the Greater Phoenix Area (Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa). Not only did it rain all day but it actually snowed in North Scottsdale. Now, snow is no big deal for most of you out there but it generally does not snow in Scottsdale, Arizona. Yes, we'll get some snow capped moutains here and there but very rarely would you see the mountains covered in snow like this.By Wednesday- Thursday, the temperature is supposed to be back to the normal 75 to 78 degrees.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
New Secret Pal
March marks the last month of the original August Secret Pal swap and the first month of the new pal swap. So, these beautiful gifts are from my new August Secret Pal (after this month, she'll be my only secret pal with the September swap ending this month as well). The theme this time was ABC. "Adorable" bib, bug book, and catipillar toy. Very clever. I know I'm going to love my new pal because we have the same taste. I've actually purchased one of these items for my new Aug secret pal- can't tell you which since she might see this post.
The ladybug opens up to a book. It's hard to tell from the photo but the center of the flower is a mirror. So cute.
This is Ava (top) and Michele written out in Chinese. I've been wanting to find the translations to add to Ava's scrapbook- you read my mind!!Thank you for the wonderful presents. I really do love them.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
My first baby is growing up...
This is my adorable nephew, Alex. He is 17 now and getting ready to graduate high school. I spent a lot of time with Alex as he grew up, especially when he was younger so I've always considered Alex to be my first child. These are his year book photos. We're all very proud of the sweet, generous, intelligent, loving young man he is growing into.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
New timeline
With the February referrals behind us, it's time to start thinking about the March referrals. I'd be lying if I said that I wasn't very disappointed with the 12 days worth of LIDs from this last batch. On the upside, there were only 3 working weeks from Jan. 23 to Feb 23 and there were more referrals assigned this time than in previous batches even though the timeframe of the LIDs doesn't reflect that.
So, I'm going to go out on a limb and post my updated referral timeline (subject to change and change and then, change again). I'm sure we have at least one more batch of referrals that will cover only 2 weeks of LIDs but I do believe that some of the batches will be for 4 weeks worth of LIDs. If the CCAA produces at least 2 referral batches that cover 4 weeks worth of LIDs over the next 5 months with the remainder only covering 2 weeks worth of LIDs, then I should still be able to get an August referral.
March 24 = May 26 to June 15 LIDs
April 24 = June 16 to July 15 LIDs
May 24 = July 16 to Aug 15 LIDs
June 24 = Aug 16 to Aug 30 LIDs
July 24 = Sept 1 to Sept 15 LIDs
Aug 24 = Sept 16 to Oct 15 LIDs
So, I'm going to go out on a limb and post my updated referral timeline (subject to change and change and then, change again). I'm sure we have at least one more batch of referrals that will cover only 2 weeks of LIDs but I do believe that some of the batches will be for 4 weeks worth of LIDs. If the CCAA produces at least 2 referral batches that cover 4 weeks worth of LIDs over the next 5 months with the remainder only covering 2 weeks worth of LIDs, then I should still be able to get an August referral.
March 24 = May 26 to June 15 LIDs
April 24 = June 16 to July 15 LIDs
May 24 = July 16 to Aug 15 LIDs
June 24 = Aug 16 to Aug 30 LIDs
July 24 = Sept 1 to Sept 15 LIDs
Aug 24 = Sept 16 to Oct 15 LIDs
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Big Thanks to August Pal
A huge thank you to my August Secret Pal. I LOVE the gifts!! The ladybug bib and blanket match an outfit I received as a gift from a friend last week. Perfect! And, the little people and bunny will be great for the trip. Thanks so much and I look forward to finding out who you are - you've been a great pal!
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Waiting families dinner- my home
The Arizona chapter of the FCC waiting families met at my home last night. Our featured speaker was MaLeesa and her husband Duane. MaLeesa teaches Baby Signs and is working on putting together a program to bring back to the orphanage that her daughter Zoe lived. Unfortunately, Zoe was home sick last night but I did get the opportunity to meet her at last month's dinner and she is a doll!!
Megan and Scott had to be the luckiest couple there. With a May 24 LID, they're expecting their first baby photos early this week!! How exciting for them. I can't wait to see their referral photos.
This is Miss Caeline, daughter of Lorraine. Caeline is 5 and an absolute sweetheart. Lorraine and Caeline are waiting for baby sister to come home. At some point during the evening Caeline took me by the hand and brought me over to Sammy, the cat. She then went on to quiz me about what and how often I was feeding Sammy and even after I showed her Sammy's food bowl, I'm not sure she was convinced that Sammy really didn't need to be hand fed.
In the pink shirt is Donna of Waiting for Lauren. Donna and her husband Joe were kind enough to come over early to help setup and stayed late for cleanup as well. Thanks!
After everyone left, I went in search of Sammy. It wasn't too hard to figure out where she would be relaxing. Since the nursery door remains closed most of the time, on the occassion that Sammy is allowed in, she knows right where to go. Sammy spent most of the evening sprawled across the nametag table, welcoming all the guests.And, a big thank you to my parents, Janet & Sal, for their help with setup and cooking. I'm happy to say that there were some left over biscotti (dad's specialty) that I am now enjoying with my morning coffee.
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