A place to call home

A New Chapter!

2009-09-20T10:22:00.001-05:00

We thought that Ava's first Gotcha Day anniversary was a great time to close the page on this chapter and start a new one! We look at it as not the end but just a new beginning. We are so excited about this new chapter and the blessings that it will bring into our lives. So click on the link and see where our next chapter will lead us!
N

http://journeytoourlittleladybug.blogspot.com/

One Year "Gotcha" Day Anniversary!!!

2009-09-20T10:20:00.014-05:00

Ava,
Today marks our one year "Gotcha Day" anniversary ! It seems like it was just yesterday that we walked out of that orphanage in Russia.I handed them your new clothes and they quickly changed you. When they handed you back to me you just looked at Daddy and I with those big blue eyes and did not even shed a tear. I made a promise to you on that day that you would never be alone again . You now belong to a family ...forever. Now looking back at you then and now I am amazed at the changes that you have gone through. We walked out of there with a timid baby that we really knew nothing about. In one short year you have grown into our little girl that I know better than myself. The strength and courage that you have shown just amazes me. Leaving everything you have ever know and embracing us with your trust is one of the greatest gifts that I have ever received. This past year has been a wonderful year full of blessings. I had no idea how much one little girl could impact so many lives. Each day that you have graced our lives you manage to bring out the best in all of us. With one simple smile or giggle you can light up a room.

I really cannot remember my life before you.I just remember something missing in my life. A place in my heart that you have filled. Although it has only been a year it seems like you have been here with us always.In that year you have carved a place in each of our hearts and wrapped everyone in the house around your little finger. I am often told how blessed you are . If they only knew how blessed we are that God had planned long ago that you were to be part of our family,created you with each of us in mind and placed you in our arms.
I love you more than you will ever know,
One Blessed Mama

Attachment vs. Developmental

2009-09-14T15:32:00.000-05:00

Okay, bare with me it has been one of those days! First off I want to say that things here have been going great. Ava is attaching wonderfully and has made such progress since coming home. We have been receiving services from ECI for about 10 months now. We do not qualify for a speech therapist through them because there is not something structurally wrong with Ava's mouth.So we have a caseworker that comes out every 2 weeks and checks on progress and offers suggestions. Our social worker suggested that we leave their program and enter a true speech pathologist program. So today we had our first visit with the speech pathologist.Ava is totally different in a strange setting . So they come out and take her in the back for an assessment...alone. Okay Bret can see the look on my face and I think it was something like shock or panic. She took Ava to her office did not have much luck on getting her to talk and then Ava took her hand and headed to the door to look for me. So then they headed to the waiting room and got Dad and I to go in with her. I think at that point I started to breath again. (Yes I think that I stopped breathing when they took her back.) It is so difficult to explain to someone that this child that she is seeing is not the same child that we see everyday. Ava was a bit overwhelmed and at one point crawled up in my lap and buried her face into my chest.She was like a doodlebug in my lap.I have had my baby with me for 1 year now and I know her as well as I know myself. You know that gift that God gives every mother.Well he has given me Ava's map and I know it well. Ava got in that room ran around like she was in overdrive and made no eye contact. It was like she was crazy. We have been home for 1 year this week and I have stayed home with her. She has found this home to be her sanctuary and in many ways it has been the same for me. The Speech therapist then let me know that she thinks Ava is ready for mother's day out. What?????? That knocked me for a loop.I then had to explain to her that Ava already had that socialization and what our #1 focus has been is attachment. I really did not feel comfortable explaining to her (the professional) the importance between attachment vs. developmental .What a stressful appointment it was and I left there questioning what the hell am I doing! Do I put her in some program for children one day a week.I know she would benefit from it socially and developmentally. Then I think what our social worker who is also an attachment therapist said when we saw her 3 weeks ago for our post placement. She said that the best thing that we have done for Ava is staying at home and keeping her world small. We have been blessed for me to be a stay at home mom. So ,the thought of dropping her off at a children's program and not having to work would stress me out maybe worse than her ! So I am left here today wondering if any of you have faced this and what you have done.

Any suggestions would be great .It is hard to be be reminded of what these precious kids have been deprive of at the beginning of their little lives.Today, I have been reminded once again of that and it really makes my heart heavy for her. I do not like days like today!

I think I will post this on my blog and see what other feed back I get . Wait I think the only other person who reads it is Kristine ,momma of that yummy peanut butter cup! Ha, Ha!Well Kristine and the gang give me your feed back!

Okay, I am going to go wash the mascara off my contacts so I do not bring home the wrong first grader!
Share the wisdom people!!!!!
N

September Already!

2009-09-09T13:14:00.000-05:00

We can hardly believe that it is already September! The time is just flying by. In a couple of weeks we will be celebrating our one year anniversary of picking up Ava. What a wonderful day it was walking out of those orphanage gates with our precious girl and looking forward to our new lives together as a family.Since we have been home a year we feel that it is time to move on . There will be one final post on September 20th and then we will be starting a new chapter in our lives!
Today, Ava and I went to Jake's school for a parade and picnic lunch. It amazes me when I see her in this social setting. She was easily overwhelmed and timid a year ago. But today she is so secure and comfortable sitting at her Bubba's desk coloring a picture. When we go to leave she ever so gently leans down and kisses him and tells him bye . It really warms my heart to see how she loves each of us as we do her. She is truly a treasure that was heaven sent.
I will leave you with a picture that Jake took of her at the school.As you can tell from Jake's photo he was feeling a little ridiculous dressed as a nursery rhyme character! He was all smiles when he got his costume off! Check back on the 20th for our exciting announcement!
N

Warning! Contains Gross Bodily Humor

2009-08-31T10:33:00.000-05:00

We have our own little mystery going on around here. I have several suspects but I am really wondering if it is one single person to blame or rather a group effort.

Suspect #1 Jake - profile: sweet mama's boy; always eager to point or pull the finger;expert storyteller

Suspect #2 Nick - profile: (confidential)Cannot divulge too much personal info I am under a gag order ; I suspect there is a restraining order against me coming within 10 feet of the high school

Suspect #3 Dad - Profile: High protein diet ...Need I say more

Suspect # 4 Tex - Profile: Sneaky and eats dirt, bugs and everything in his path!

The problem here is that I have a beautiful little girl who suffers from a syndrome called P.O.D. For those of you that are not familiar with this be glad! If you have boys in your house you are probably in denial but have seen the signs of this disorder. POD a.k.a. Pooting On Demand . Yes, my little "poot in pink" thinks this is so funny to cut the cheese in public! While we were out shopping the other day she cut the cheese so loud the lady on the aisle looked at me!
I am fearful that she is lost to all the laughter that she can get from her new found bodily function!So her is her latest mug shot . If you see her out in public I swear it is not me!

One Sad Little Sister!

2009-08-24T08:42:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day back at school and I have one sad little lady here! Every time we said "Ava do not be sad both bubba's have to go to school" her bottom lip would stick out! Ava has enjoyed having the boy's here for the summer. It will take us a good two weeks to get back into the groove but we will have some really good one on one time again.
I now have a sophomore in high school and a first grader. That means I will one day have a freshman in College and a kindergartner! That sounds really crazy!
Well, stay posted we have some really exciting news to share in the next few weeks! Until then I will leave you with some pics of the first day!
N

Three Day's and Counting!!!!

2009-08-21T22:00:00.000-05:00

School begins on Monday ! I cannot believe summer is gone! Ava is going to miss her bubba's. I did not see any X box or Rockband on either of their schedules for this upcoming school year. Maybe there was a mistake? NOT!
On Monday morning there is going to be some cobwebs burning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Here is a photo of the band. Nick the singer, Jake on the guitar and Ava on the piano.
Look at that grin on her face! Too cute!

Who's the Boss?

2009-07-29T14:37:00.000-05:00

NEED I SAY MORE????????????????????????????????????????????????????

Ava's Top Ten List!

2009-07-25T08:11:00.000-05:00

We are amazed on a daily basis at how much Ava has changed. We walked off that plane with a quiet , meek and timid little baby. Now fast forward and we have a two year old firecracker! She now has a voice. And did I mention that she loves to hear herself SCREAM!!!!

Ava's 10 Dislikes:

10. Tex's Kisses! Tex and Ava are eye level and she always has some sort of snack residue on her upper body. Well need I say more, you add in a dog with a kin sense of smell and a love for giving kisses and the result is lots of screaming! Tex one day she will love you but right now Rocky ... ROCKs!

9.Mashed Potatoes! Lots of potatoes in that cabbage soup at the orphanage. She loves french fries only!

8.Doctors in white coats! She is terrified!

7.Thunder and lightening! This is a new fear that has just emerged!

6.When Momma puts her purse on! She does not like if I go somewhere without her! She has a mommy addiction! I would not have it any other way!

5.Not being able to choose her own shoes! It sounds crazy but she loves her shoes.She gets straight out of bed and heads for he shoe rack.Her current favorites are her princess high heel collection and a pair of green rubber caterpillar boot! As you can see in the photos, the green rubber boots are a must in every Texas girls wardrobe!

4.Tight clothes! She had enough of that.

3.Long Car rides! Even with her favorite show on the TV. When she is done... she is done!

2.Being hungry! Everything is good as long as you are not late with breakfast ,lunch dinner and snacks! It is as simple as this:

Ava + a full tummy = A happy girl!

1.Being told NO! This really stinks and I hate it too !!!!!! Get used to it sister we live in a house where the testosterone levels are dangerously high!

Ava's 10 Favorite Things:

10.Water! She loves to bath, swim and splash in puddles! You would never believe this was the same child who was terrified of the bath tub in Russia! Now, she is a little fish!

9.Her blanket! She has grown attached to one blanket. It has got one edge tattered just right. She likes to tickle her nose and toes with that tattered corner. And watch out if you are extra special she will tickle your nose too!

8.Ava loves other little people! She loves to be around other little kids. When she gets around someone her age you see the biggest grin and lots of giggles!

7.Ava loves to be outside! Ava was housed in the hospital for a big portion of the beginning of her life. When she went to the orphanage , she would get sick and off to the hospital she would go. So she loves to put on her rubber boots, a hat , loads of sunscreen and soak up some Texas rays!

6.Music! Ava loves music! She loves for you to sing her anything. Believe me American Idol has not contacted me about an auditions but she thinks my voice is just lovely!!! Ha!

5.Ava loves Rocky! Ava and our cat have a special relationship. They have a mutual love for one another. They have joined forces against the dog...Sorry Tex!

4.She loves to eat! You would not now it by looking at her. She is still quite small but making great progress. She eats anything. On the boy's plates everything is separate and Ava mixes everything up! Ava loves Hummus, olives , tomatoes, broccoli,onions but spaghetti is her favorite!

3.She loves her bubba's! Jake is her clown / partner in crime and Nick fulfills a loving yet silly role.

2.Ava loves to be carried around! She is on my hip about 75% of the day.No wonder I am on the geriatric circuit at the gym!

1. And top on her list of favorite things..........Ava loves being part of a family! This is so apparent to us in how she has grown to love and trust all of us.She looks at each of us with such love and devotion. This is not always a easy transition for a child that has spent their life in an institution. But each and every child deserves to have the chance to be loved and accepted. Ava has found that and at two years old she has been one of the best teachers that I have ever had.

So, there you have it ! This little firecracker has come into her own. We are so excited tantrums and all!!!!!!!!
N

A Date to Remember!

2009-07-22T15:48:00.000-05:00

Okay, I admit I am not the most organized person. I guess you could call me a closet slob. I am one of those people that keeps stuff in case I will need it someday! I was sorting through some of my old emails today . When I looked over at the date, I realized that was the day that my sweet little girl was born in Russia . Yes, I admit I have keep emails from 2007! When I looked back on that date ,we were packing up for our big move from Dallas back to Houston. On that hot day in July ,we endured the painful task of packing up and bidding our farewells in Dallas. On the other side of the world our pink bundle of joy was born. I was so anxious to get moved! I was excited about returning to my hometown but really excited about beginning our home study. I had to cancel our first home study appointment because of the relocation. Our social worker suggested once we got settled in Houston then we could proceed with the home study. I remember thinking that every road block that we encountered was delaying the adoption process.It was so frustrating and I was ready !!! Funny thing is that the little girl that was meant to be our daughter was not ready . She had just been born. I look back on this now and know that every detour and road block was in place for a reason. And I am reminded as we are about to begin another wonderful adventure ... GREAT things come to those who wait!

I leave you with my pink bundle of joy in pink high heels and her Walmart shopping cart! And yes that is her hair , not a wig!!!!!!!!
N

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!!!!!

2009-07-18T09:05:00.000-05:00

Today is Ava's second birthday! We are so excited and blessed to be sharing this special day with her. This will be her first birthday party. When we met her she was one week shy of her first birthday. We were told that in the orphanage they lump the kids birthdays together and celebrate as a group. So for your 2nd birthday it is all about you!

We had some of your favorite people as guests to share this special day. Top on Ava's list is her great grandmother,Nana. She has a connection with her that is so sweet. She is not like this with everyone but Nana holds a special place in Ava's heart.
Ava had a great time and really got into opening the presents. Jake decided that you would dress like a princess and he would be a knight. As you can tell from the first picture she was not wanting her photo taken! What a diva!

Happy Birthday Baby!
We love you more than you will ever know!
N

The Journal - Our Final Visit

2009-07-09T22:05:00.000-05:00

Today we were allowed to see you one last time before we leave.Since Podolsk is in the same direction as the airport, we went to see you before the flight. We were allowed to lay a blanket down on the floor and you really enjoyed that. Today you would reach for me. What a change from the quiet little lady we met on Monday. You enjoyed laughing and playing with the stacking cups. You did not stack them but enjoyed chewing on them! Yum! We had 2 hours to play today. Daddy was amazed at how interactive you were today. You loved dancing to Daddy's Blackberry tunes. When it was time to leave I handed you to the doctor. She said you would both stand there till we left. I walked down that long hallway and I could not bring myself to look back at you. I could only imagine what you were thinking watching us walk away.The thought of leaving you in that hospital is overwhelming.As we leave you I am left wondering if this week with us was just another abandonment for you. We both feel like we were in shock.This all feels like a dream. What a great week we had playing with you and getting to know you.I will pray that you will be returned to the orphanage soon.

We now are at home and are waiting on the phone call about our court date.I have to say that this stage of the wait is the most difficult yet.After leaving you , we have decided to combine trip 2 & 3. The thought of leaving you again would be too difficult. I pray everyday that court will be earlier than September. I also pray that the Lord will keep you safe until we return to you. I hope that you are filled with the knowledge that you are loved beyond measure and now belong to a family.

We Love you,
Momma & Daddy

The Journal - Day 4

2009-07-09T21:51:00.000-05:00

Today, I came alone to see you. I could tell it was killing Daddy to miss the day with you. He went to work today in Moscow. I traveled to Podolsk with Alex and Violet. They have taken such good care of us this week. I have not once felt scared or unsafe. I do not think you were feelng well today. You spit up a few times, but despite that I could see you had fun playing with me. We put a blanket on the floor and you had a little more freedom. You really love your baby Einstein musical book. You also played with your bunny we made for you at Build a Bear. You smiled a lot more and babbled a lot more too. You rocked yourself a couple of times but that will all change when you get home. The doctors at the hospital said you must have a strong immune system because you have been there twice for exsposure to an illness and not gotten sick. I did not get to feed you today because you had already eaten. After our visit, we went by the orphanage to drop off your things we brought for you.They all said what a wonderful little girl you are. I met your main caregiver ,Alla, and she was very sweet. I could tell she cared about you a lot. We will not get to see you on Friday as we have our 8 doctor medicals in Moscow. We will have our final visit with on Saturday before leaving for the airport.The thought of heading back home without you is going to be so difficult. In just a few short days you have captured such a big piece of both of our hearts!

The Journal - Day 3

2009-07-09T09:15:00.000-05:00

We arrive today a little late for lunch, so we do not get to give you your bottle.When the doctor comes in to bring you to us she tells us that you seem alive with emotions. She said our visits have been very good for you and you are showing so many more emotions.We pass you back and forth and have a great time playing with the toys we brought.When we lean in to give you kisses you cringe. It is hard to imagine that you are unsure about what a simple gesture of love is. Daddy leans in a tickles your foot and there it is the biggest smile and giggle that we have ever seen. We are thrilled! You have made us work really hard for that first smile. Leave it to daddy to know just what would work. We got some great pictures of your beautiful smile.We also got a better view of those six teeth that you have been hiding.You love the butterfly rattle that makes all kinds of different sounds.You seem to like anything that makes noises. That is good because we are a loud family that lives in a noisy house!
After our visit today we went by the orphanage to drop off our clothing donations. The director was on vacation but we gave them to the orphanage doctor. She was thrilled and very gracious. She said that you were a wonderful little girl and you could tell that she was fond of you.She said that you look like me. I did not realize how nice that was to hear. What a compliment. She told us that she has seen a photo of your birth mother and that she was very beautiful. I would not expect anything less because you are such a beautiful little baby. I can only imagine how difficult it was for her to leave you. She knew that she could not take care of you and wanted only the best for you. One day I will help you find her so that she can see what a wonderful young women you have become.

The Journal - Day 2 with Baby Boo!

2009-07-07T18:50:00.000-05:00

We arrive at the hospital today before lunch. When they bring you out today you again are wrapped in many layers of blankets.I immediately go over and scoop you up. They allow us to go into the office to have our visit.There is no where to set you down and watch what you can do so we take turns holding you.We brought a backpack filled with books and toys for you to look at. You loved the baby Einstein book with music and noises!It does not take us long to realize that we have a little dancer on our hands!Daddy plays music his blackberry and you dance,jump and shake your head to the music! The doctor enters the room with a bottle of formula. You grab it and off you go.I have never seen a child suck so furiously. As I hold you in my arms you are gripping my fingers so tight and your eyes are rolling back in your head.Every few seconds you open your eyes and look at me as if to see if I am still there.You can hold a bottle like a pro but you allow me to feed you. I can see that this will be a great way for us to bond.When the bottle is empty you continue to suck .I take it out and you grab it and jam it back into your mouth. I can tell that you are still hungry.At this age in the states you would be on more than formula. When I asked if you could have some of the Gerber puffs that we brought they looked at me like I was crazy.Did I mention that you have a full set of teeth !
You continue to entertain us with some babbling and dancing. When we ask you questions you shake your head no . Very Cute! You are sitting on my lap when I realize there is something wet and really warm on my leg. Yeah ...you peed on me! The nurses ran in and get you changed. I laughed . They do not know that I am the mother of two boys and used to all things gross and crude! The boys have prepared me well for just about anything.I wore my "pee pee" jeans proudly the rest of the day. It was kinda of like you had marked me as your momma today!
At dinner tonight we both found it hard to eat wondering if you were still hungry.Our hearts are heavy thinking about you stuck in isolation at the hospital. It sounds strange but we will be happy when you are returned to the orphanage. After much discussion you will be Ava Alexandra. A new name , a new beginning .

The Day We Met

2009-07-07T08:59:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe that today is the one year anniversary of meeting our sweet Ava. The time has flown by so quickly and I have watched her transform from a scared ,shy baby to a confident ,spunky (that sounds better than stubborn!)little girl. Our lives were forever changed when we walked into that hospital in Podolsk.That first week ,I had taken a journal with me to take notes after each visit with Ava.

Day 1

We went to the MOE today to get our official referral. We waited for a couple of hours in a long hallway for our turn to be called in. We waited with two other American couples. One of the families were with CSS and shared their knowledge of the IA process.Our translator Violet left us with Svetelana as we waiting for our invitation to go in the back.Finally, we were all called back to a small room. There was a round table in the center of the room and we all took a seat. On both sides of the room were four ladies working on computers.We sat in silence for what seemed like an eternity. It was the most nervous silence that I have ever experienced. A lady entered the room with two large files in her hands. She sat them on the table and began speaking Russian to S asking which family would be going first. S pointed at us. I glanced down at the file but I did not see a photo on the front. She opened the file and took out a sheet of paper with a lot of data and at the top left hand corner was a small black and white photo.She then turned the paper around and started reading the data in Russian.They all kinda sounded like Charlie Brown's teacher! S was translating but I was focused on that little photo.I recognized you from the database. It was the same photo that I had see everyday for months. I was totally shocked that you were so young and blond/light eyed. We were open any ethnicity and up to 24 months. We expected a brown-eyed beauty that was at the top end of our age bracket.This was definitely proof that God has a sense of humor! Always remember EVERYTHING IS ON HIS TIME AND IT IS HIS PLAN!
We were then given all the basic info about you .Then they asked if we would like to met you . Bret said I yelled out "Yes" before they could finish the question.We then drove to Podolsk. We arrived at the gates of the baby home located in the middle of the town of Podolsk.Violet took us inside past the guard. When you walked into the yard there was colorful murals painted on the walls and play ground equipment scattered throughout the grounds.In the backdrop was a large two story building.When entering the building we could not help but notice the silence. Violet took us straight to the directors office where we learned you were taken to the hospital due to a fever and exposure to the chicken pox.Violet was determined we were going to see you today so after much persuasion the clinic granted us permission to visit you. So we were back in the car and heading to the hospital.When we arrived we were shocked to see the conditions of the hospital.We went to the last building in the back where they kept the children. We rang the door bell and Violet worked her magic. We were asked to wait in the hallway while they went in in the back to get you. We had hired Dr. M to come and evaluate your medicals. I have to say I was scared to death!I managed to maintain that "deer in the headlights" look all day!

Minutes passed and this doctor that was no taller than 4'6 comes walking out with something that looks half her size wrapped in many blankets.She laid you on a table in the hallway and began unwrapping you. Layer by layer whatever was in there was getting smaller and smaller. Then there were two big beautiful grey eyes just sizing up each of us.I was shocked to see how tiny you were. You were one week shy of your first b-day and weighted what your brothers weighted at 3-4 months.We studied each other for a few minutes and then I scooped you up.You did not cry at all.They explained that you had been there for 21 days in the "box".I think you were glad for the human attention and change of scenery. Dr. M evaluated you as we helped and watched.We were amazed at how bright and alert you were. We would give you our fingers and you would pull yourself up. Small but very mighty! You made excellent eye contact and studied every detail of our faces. But you were completely silent and had a frown on your face. Dr. M talked to us about your medical report.You had a lengthy list on your medical: PFO(small hole in between atrium's of the heart) ,rickets ,pulmonary stenosis, premature at 36 wks , 4.4 lbs at birth, delay about 3-4 months,angel kiss on your forehead and large stork bite at the base of your neck! Dr. M felt the hole was closed because he could not detect a murmur and all of you other issues would resolve with good nutrition and the love of a family.Before we knew it ,it was time for your nap . I walked out of that building in a daze. Where was my sign . I just knew that God was going to give me a sign that you were our daughter.I had seen your picture on the datbase countless times but I would always just pass it over. When we got in the car Violet asked what we thought of the baby. Daddy jumped in and said "When can we take her home". Well, that was my sign ! This man was terrified of a baby with a heart condition.He walked out of that building and knew without any doubt that you were our daughter. You managed to wrap that man around your finger in two short hours. You definitely beat my time! I leave there with so much on my mind it is difficult to process it all.All that I know is that I have just met my little girl!

1st Trip To The Beach!

2009-07-06T13:31:00.000-05:00

Ava had her first trip to the beach this past week. She had a blast digging in the sand and looking at the shells. She has really been bonding with Nick lately. Jake is her clown that always entertains but Nick is older. They have been spending more time together since school has been out for summer and she is forming a great bond with him. It is really wonderful to see!

We are so excited to be approaching our one year anniversary of meeting our sweet girl! Time has really flown by.I just look at her and it seems so surreal that we have been blessed with such a wonderful bundle of joy!

N

An American Girl!

2009-07-04T08:51:00.000-05:00

The Day we walked out of the orphanage with Ava the ladies took her back and changed her into the clothes we brought her. When she came back out they said "Look at her she looks like an American girl!" Well, let's fast forward 10 months later ... if they could see her now!

Happy 4th of July!!!!!!!!

Note to self: Never try to have a photo shoot BEFORE the nap!Sorry Ava I had to document the terrible two's. No one believe's me!

N

Happy B-Day Nick!!!

2009-06-22T08:51:00.000-05:00

Yes, we really do have another child!I have been banned from posting any pics that are not pre-approved by him first! Our oldest baby turned 15 on the 21st! And yes, each of you will always and forever be my babies! Wow, the time has certainly flown by . Now, I am changing diapers on one and checking into drivers education for the other! Yikes!!!!!

I love you and Happy 15th B-day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mom

What's Old Is New Again!

2009-06-15T13:45:00.000-05:00

We try to do our part for the environment here in our household.I have always kept toys and passed them on to the next boy. But when you have a girl somethings do not reuse so easily! Jacob graciously passed on his Hummer to little sissy . But we had to give it a "girly" makeover with the help of some Hello Kitty stickers! I have to preserve Ava's feminine side . Living with a household of males makes it challenging .I left her with the guy's on Friday for a little while and in just a few short hours she has mastered the art of making very realistic machine gun noises.LOL. Hopefully our next adoption announcement will turn the tide in favor of the pink team at our household ! Although I have felt myself wavering a little in the blue direction! Maybe it's all the testosterone in the air!!!! or could it be all of Jacob's requests for a brother his age! At first Ava was not sure what to think about her new ride but she is catching on quickly. By the second spin that evening there was a lot of giggling going on. Her driving instructor is a bit bossy but she just adores him .Every once in a while she has enough of his back seat driving and she will put him in his place! He is such a man ... and she is such an assertive little women!
N

We are on the charts!!!!!

2009-06-10T12:34:00.000-05:00

Photo #1 - 1st week home
Photo #2 - evidence that sister has been hitting the candy dish!!!

We had our appointment with ECI this morning. Our case worker was so excited to see Ava's full cheeks. We see ava everyday so sometimes it is hard to see the progress in the weight area. I have been adding butter and cheese to everything this little lady eats. One thing about Ava she is not a picky eater.The only thing she does not like is potatoes in any form other than french fries. She loves to eat !Her favorite treat is M&M's! Of course all chocolate falls under the M&M label. So after breakfast every morning she heads over to the candy dish and begins her requests for her morning fix.We I think her love affair with that candy dish has payed off...We are now on the growth charts!!!!!!!!
She is currently 10% for weight and 3% for height!!!! Compared to the boy's who were always in the 95% this seems like a drop in the bucket. I have to keep reminding myself that she was half their birth weight and have any of you ever had cabbage soup??? Yikes!
We are continuing to work on speech. This seems to be the only area that we are focusing on with ECI. Remarkably she comprehends everything that we say to her. Picking up instructions in a different language is not an easy task.She is really starting to branch out from her simple words and form some phrases. This morning she was following me a little to close and when I stopped she ran into me and fell down. I picked her up and said "Sorry Charlie" and she responded " I not Charlie" ! She is so sweet and silly!
N

Ready or not Summer is here !!!!

2009-06-09T10:14:00.000-05:00

Well ,summer is here again! We have been really busy the last couple of weeks. I now officially am the mother of a first grader, a sophomore in high school and a tantrum throwing soon to be two year old! Yes , I will be that Mom that will span all of the schools! I am okay with that just as long as know one asks Ava is that your Grandmother !!!!
Things have been a little crazy around here and we are only four days into summer.The challenge is finding activities that interest everyone despite the large gap in ages!Jake still hold the top place as Ava's fav. As you can see by the photos he is really silly!
Here are some photos of some our summertime fun. Check out sister's tummy!!!! We are so excited ! When we arrived home with Ava she could wear a 3-6 month onesie and barely a size 2 shoe. Now, fast forward 10 months... she is wearing 12-18 months and a size 5 shoe!She is still so tiny but we are packing on the calories!!!
N

Our little birdcage

2009-05-22T13:15:00.000-05:00

We have a running joke in the house now that I am momma bird and this house has become my bird cage. As an adoptive parent you read how the best thing to do is to keep your new child's world small. This gives the children time to bond with their new family. Also a child that has not known anything beyond the walls of that orphanage this new big world can be nothing short of overwhelming. So baby bird and I have been in our bird cage bonding and getting to know each other.Within the 8 months of being home Ava has bonded with us beyond our wildest dreams. A child that at first would cringe when you leaned in to kiss her now gives the sweetest kisses ever imaginable. She has made great strides developmentally as well. When we first picked up Ava she was not walking or talking. Now she has been walking for 6 months . Her speech is a little slower. As a family we have teamed up to cater to her every need and whim. That said my baby bird knows anyone of her flock will come running and give her whatever she wants. There is pros and cons to this ! Pros are she knows that she belongs to a family that loves and cares for her in a way she never had before. Cons are that she can let out a scream, grunt or just point and the world is hers!!!! She is somewhere between a group of words that gets her by and occasionally combining a few sentences. We definitely were not surprised that her 6 month evaluation for ECI revealed that she developmentally at 21 months is more at the level of a 17 month old.Our case worker feels that Ava has made great progress and will continue to do so.We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and are in awe of her determination.
Today we ventured out of our bird cage and had our first official play date with the neighborhood playgroup. We live in a great family neighborhood . We have a slash pad with sprayers and fountains for the kids to run through. Ava is the youngest in the group of kiddos. I have seen her play with kids that are older but have not seen her interaction with someone that is her age. I have to say I was a little taken back. She definitely was the smallest but that is always the case. Ava is still not on the charts for her weight despite she eats really good. She had a slow start at 4.4 lbs. and now is running everywhere. So she is gaining weight at a steady pace but we are stilling trying to catch up for lost time! Anyone that knows me says Ava's fits great with me because I am little too! So, we are not expecting Ava to be a wrestler on her highschool wrestling team! And we are really okay with that!So ,she looked at all those kids running around and she was not sure what she was supposed to do. She would bring the beach balls around to the grown ups .She shared really well. I was a bit worried about this due to her exposure to her brothers giving in to her every request. She approached a few of the younger kids but I caught her looking at some of the older boys. She would go up to each one and study their faces. She was looking for her bubba, Jake. I felt bad for her because what she has known up till now has been our little family and she seemed a little lost today. Joining this playgroup will be a great thing for her socially, developmentally and emotionally.So as we drive home I feel this overwhelming sadness . The sadness is not for me because I am blessed with this unbelievable little girl that has changed my life in so many ways .I am so sad for all that she missed in the beginning of her little life. I am reminded today of all that she never had for that first year.It is a bitter little pill to swallow.One that I do not like to think about but the tears caught me off guard today. When we got home we had lunch .As I was feeding Ava she took my hand and gently kissed the palm of my hand and gave me the sweetest smile. As if to say "it is going to be okay Momma".
My baby bird continues to teach me lessons each and everyday.She is truly heaven sent. Parenting a child that has been institutionalized is not always the easiest job. A day does not go by that you do not ask yourself am I doing everything that I can for them. At times I feel like I am a first time mom because not everything that I did for the boys will work with Ava. But that sweet little kiss and smiling blue eyes was just the reassurance that I needed today.
Now ,I am going to put up the kleenex and end this post with a lighter note! We appreciate you all joining us in a moment of silence. We are morning the loss of our maid service! This was my contribution to the budget. I will be contributing a portion to our adoption fund . I cannot think of a better motivation to break out the old feather duster!In the mean time, pray that the family is not all overcome by the scary dust bunnies!
Have a great weekend!

N

Monkey See,Monkey Do!

2009-05-15T14:06:00.000-05:00

Well, this little monkey LOVES to act like she is on the phone. I wonder where she got that from! She has mastered the art of multi-tasking also. She can talk on the phone and take notes.The other day she was on the phone and I asked her who she was on the phone with . She replied by placing her pointer finger over her lips and told me "SHHH"!I love how she has become so assertive. Seven months ago she was timid, shy and quiet as a mouse.I will leave you guy's with some photos and let you determine who is in charge now!!!!

Michelle here is the infamous "bear ears". I usually use mini bobbi pins . You can use ribbons , flowers or decorative barrettes. Ana's hair would be so cute like this with those curls!
N

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-08T22:28:00.000-05:00

~ Legacy Of An Adopted Child ~

Once there were two women
Who never knew each other.
One you do not remember,
The other you call mother.

Two different lives
Shaped to make yours one,
One became your guiding star,
The other became your sun.

The first gave you life,
And the second taught you to live it.
And the first gave you a need for love,
And the second was there to give it.

One gave you a nationality.
The other gave you a name.
One gave you the seeds of talent,
The other gave you aim.

One gave you emotions,
The other calmed your fears.
One saw your first sweet smile,
The other dried your tears.

One gave you up,
It was all that she could do.
The other prayed for a child,
And God led her straight to you.

And now you ask me through your tears,
The age old question through the years.
Heredity or environment, Which are you a product of?
Neither, my Darling, Neither,
Just two different kinds of love.

Author Unknown

I find myself thinking about the sacrafice that Ava's birthmother made. I am so thankful that she chose life and that I have been blessed with the honor of being Ava's mother.When I read this poem I am reminded how we each have had such different roles in Ava's life but none less important than the other.

On a more silly note ,I took a survey to estimate my salary as a mom. Wow, I had no idea what I was worth on the open market!I am leaving you guy's with some random photos of momma and baby girl!You can't have a post without photos!
Have a great Mothers Day!!!!
N

Earnings Statement Our Family
For The year Ending: May, 2009
Job Title Hourly Rate Hours Worked
Housekeeper $9.72 858
Day Care Center Teacher $13.18 3,120
Cook $13.47 676
Computer Operator $15.45 478
Facilities Manager $34.64 447
Van Driver $15.59 104
Psychologist $36.52 374
Laundry Machine Operator $9.91 780
Janitor $10.21 260
Chief Executive Officer $69.31 286
Total Value
Regular Hourly Rate $17.19 2,080 $35,757
Over Time Rate $25.79 5,304 $136,770

$211,143 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Source mom.salary.com

Look at my new Custom Pool !!!

2009-05-08T13:20:00.000-05:00

Don't be jealous! I have always wanted a pool in my backyard. So when I saw this at Walmart I said "Perfect!" We had planned on putting a pool in this year but we put the money to better use. You see the beautiful Russian swimsuit model... need I say more!

As I sit outside lounging on a alligator teeter totter I can honestly say this is the best pool ever!

Sunscreen $8.00

Custom Pool
from Walmart $ 15.00

Giggling Bikini Beauty
with
the plumbers crack ... PRICELESS!!!!!!!
N

A love of a lifetime

2009-05-03T21:53:00.000-05:00

We are just a few days shy of our 10 month anniversary of meeting our little girl. Wow the time has certainly flown by!Over a year ago we submitted our dossier with the hopes of adopting a little girl . Our dreams were filled the day we sat with the Kellams in the office of the MOE and I saw that little face on that file. I do not know if I have ever been so scared in my life. When I saw her picture I recognized it from the database.While waiting for the call I would look at all of the photos of the children on the database. I would always move onto the little girls with dark hair /dark eyes.Never once did I look at that photo and imagine that this was her. This was definite conformation of Gods sense of humor! Our first trip was a time filled with so many emotions. Little did I know that this journey would led me to one of the greatest loves of my life. Ava has brought so much to each of our lives and we could not imagine what our life would have been like without her. Last night my DH and I looked over all of our photos of our trips to Russia. My heart was so heavy when I looked at that sad little face that was in those photos. When I see her now I see a feisty, spunky little girl that can light up a room with that infectious giggle. She is a far cry from that expressionless baby that we met just a few months ago.It is miraculous what love can do.

For those of you that do not know me I am a creature of habit. I crave predictability and often do not leave my "comfort" zone.I am the one that goes to the amusement park and gladly holds all the bags while everyone else rides the roller coasters. I am cautious and do not like surprises. So for me to travel thousands of miles away to met a child that only the Lord had seen and trust in his plan was nothing short of one of his miracles. He had instilled this passion and desire in my heart so long ago. I am so glad that I listened to his calling and chose a path that I usually would have not have chosen. This path has led me to one of the greatest gifts in my life. As adoptive parents we often hear how lucky this child is. Truth is that I am the lucky one. She has saved me in so many ways. She has deepened my faith in the lord and brings a since of perspective to my life everyday.She has taught me how to be selfless and the rewards that come from that simple act. It is amazing that one little tiny person could have such a big impact on your life. So if you are reading this getting ready for your next stage in your adoption journey trust in his plan and remember it is on his timing not yours!Let him drive... sit back and enjoy the ride! If you are reading this because you are considering adoption all I can tell you is that you could be missing out on one of the greatest adventures of a lifetime.The gift of a child ,no matter how they come into your life, is the greatest gift you ever are given.

In a few months, we hope to be making an announcement of yet another journey of a lifetime. Stay tuned!
I will leave some pics of our first week meeting "baby" Ava in July '08 and then pics of our "big girl" at home May '09.
N

TGIF!!!!!!!

2009-04-24T08:03:00.000-05:00

Well we have had quite a lull in our home in regards to visits from the tooth fairy but she finally reappeared last night! Jake was so excited she left him $5.00. Maybe some of mine will fall out and I can start saving for our next adoption!Just kidding ... I think I will keep my teeth and find another way! Here are a few photos from the week.
Have a great weekend!
N

Spring time in Texas!

2009-04-14T08:43:00.000-05:00

What a beautiful spring day in Texas! Too bad my models did not think so!After driving a hour to get to the perfect patch of bluebonnets the kids were anything but happy. Now factor in a million sticker burrs, a teenager with attitude and a cranky little Russian diva with only a 30 minute nap ... add it all up and you have a recipe for disaster! After a few fights , lots of screaming and a few tears my DH and I were able to have a good laugh.A quick trip to sonic for ice cream seemed to sweeten moods and the rest of the day was saved! I will treasure these pictures always!I later looked at them and really had to laugh . Amidst all of the chaos Ava has truly won her place in this crazy family!!!!!!!
How blessed we are!
N

Happy Easter!!!!!!

2009-04-12T11:12:00.000-05:00

Parenting 101: Attachment?!

2009-04-01T13:49:00.000-05:00

Okay Ondrea this one is for you.
My H and I are newbies in the adoptive parent circle. Home now 6 months we still are learning the vast differences there are to parent a child that has spent the first 14 months of her life in an institution .We have read countless books and articles on the issues of attachment.But when it comes to your own real life situation sometimes the material seems like a foreign language. Over the boy's spring break we decided to take our first overnight trip to test the waters. The trip was for one night and we stayed in a hotel. Ava's world has been so routine and predictable since we have been home that we are guessing that this change of course has caused some strange new behaviors.
The trip was great and she did really well. She was a trouper in the car. Funny how sister immediately asks for the TV to be put on even before the engine starts! She slept right next to us in her pack and play. Did really well visiting with friends, discovered her love for barbie and never once left my side. We arrived back home the next night and proclaimed the trip to be a success or was it? Since being home she has been glued to my side. If someone comes up to her and wants to hold her she come up swinging! I know this is hard to imagine from such a sweet ,tiny ladybug but sister has found her niche in this family(my hip) and is not letting go. I go to walk and she is hooked onto my leg looking up at me saying "mama up!". We are kind of taken back by her "retreat " from independence.We recognize clingy behavior as a sign of attachment issues but are not sure what to do. Since being home we have returned to our normal schedule and have returned to our "small little world".Despite things are back to normal, I still have little miss monkey hooked to my hip and I am a little worried about what she must be feeling.Is she stressed about the change in routine? Has this raised some issues with abandonment? How long does this last? And finally what can we do to help? So O, if you are out there dust off those papers on attachment and give me your two cents. And to all of my other loyal readers (Michelle!) feel free to leave your ideas as well!
Signed Momma Monkey

Message to Princess Ana!

2009-03-10T11:10:00.000-05:00

Dear Princess Ana,
Thank you so much for all of the great clothes and shoes! I love them! It looks like I won the toddler shoe lottery!
I cannot wait to meet you!
Your friend and fellow princess ,
Ava

Ava's New Look!

2009-03-03T10:18:00.000-06:00

Here are a few shots of Vava's new glasses! I have to admit she is really cute in them! She has been so good about keeping them on. Now, we just have to make sure that Tex does not end up eating or wearing them!

Living on Faith

2009-02-27T08:37:00.000-06:00

I read Ondrea's blog a few weeks ago and she quoted something that that has stuck in my mind. A friend ,Gwen, asked her "What are you doing today that is causing you to live on Faith?" I ask myself several times a day "What would Jesus do" but this puts a new spin on it.
There has been several times in my life when I have let go and relied so deeply on my faith. Each time he has carried me through some of the most difficult times and given me strength that I did not know that I had. I think that the adoption of our sweet girl was one of those events that caused me to live solely on faith. Although it can be scary to "let go" what a great feeling to know you are never alone. As with anyone who has been on the journey of adoption you will be forever changed by what you have experienced.I have asked myself what else can I do. I cannot think of a greater way to live your life on faith than to serve a orphan. I had posted a while back about a program through Adoption Ark called Happy Holiday Kid. This program allows you to choose a child and you send a card for 6 special calendar dates. We received a list of the most precious kiddos and we each selected one. It does not sound like much to us but just think how exciting that will be for a little kid who has nothing . They still have several kids left and are adding more to the list.I challenge each of you reading this to take a little time out to make a little orphans day brighter! What a great way to share your hope and faith to someone who has so little.
Ava is doing great ! She returned to the eye doctor and will need glasses.We noticed her eye was drifting a bit after we were home about 3 months. It is only doing it about 30% of the time. We have been working on doing some execises that involve dropping cherrios into a small container. This has helped but she has a slight astigmatism. I told myself that if that is the worst case senerio considering so many unknowns that we are truly blessed! Now, when they fitted her and she looked at me with that sweet little face I have to admit I had a big lump in my throat! Silly I know ! She is so sweet and will be so cute in her little pink frames. And yes, they are pink!
By the way take a look at Gwen's blog . The Oatsvall family is in the process of adopting Abigail and Joseph . She is selling t-shirts and tote bags to help defer the cost.I got a really cute T-shirt and what an awesome cause!
I will leave you with some photo's of Ms. VaVa on her first trip to the Zoo!And will post some photo's of the new glasses next week!
N

No blue dress ...but still a little devil!

2009-01-29T09:22:00.000-06:00

The title says it all... but I will elaborate a bit ! I have been playing this song over and over in my head this week as I have watched our sweet girls transformation. Ava is a bit under the weather this week! We had the chicken pox immunization last week and I was warned that it could make her a bit irritable. But Dr. K did not warn me about the little horns that were going to spring forth out of those beautiful curly locks! We first noticed these horns when she took a toy and headed in for our sweet ECI caseworker knee. The smile that spread across her face as she ran off was sinister to say the least! I have to thank Jake for this demonstration of cause and effect. He usually has Ava push or swing at him and then he falls over laughing at the top of his lungs. Of coarse this causes her to go into the deepest giggle ! This giggle is one of those giggles that as a parent you know you should not laugh at but cannot help yourself.On top of the irritability from the shot, she has had a cold and a slight fever. Last night I woke up at 3:00 am and took her temp and gave her some more Gatorade. We rocked for a while and then I put her back in her bed. I then laid there and thought about how good Ava is at night. She is quite and stays in her bed.She is not being good she is just doing what she has been taught. Then I thought about all of the times she has been sick and no one came. That is a terrible thought that someone so little has been taught to be so self sufficient. When we visited her on both trips she had been hospitalized. The first trip she had been in the hospital for over a month.So I got back out of bed and Ava and I headed for the rocking chair. The rocking chair time is my favorite time with Ava. She just studies your face and softly strokes your cheek.Even though it was the middle of the night it was a great time to squeeze in a litte bonding and TLC! I am glad to say she has awoke this morning minus the fever and the horns!I will leave you with a photo of her and the powered donuts!
Word of advise: Never wear black when you serve white powered donuts to an 18 month old...plus you never can get away with sneeking a few bites yourself!
N

First Post Placement!

2009-01-21T08:57:00.000-06:00

It is hard to imagine that it is already time for our first post placement report to Russia! Ava has been with us for four months now and it is remarkable to see the changes that have taken place in this little girl .She no longer is a baby. When we first brought Ava home my family was shocked at how little she was. She was wearing a size 6 months and it was big. I had even gone in and bought some onesies in a 3-6 months! She now is filling out and is wearing a 12 month size in most brands. When we first picked her up she weighted about 14 pounds ,Height 27 inches at 14 months old. Now at 18 months old she weights 18 pounds and is almost 30 inches. She eats great but is in constant motion! When kiddos hit the toddler stage they certainly can burn up the calories!She now is walking and into everything!Ava also has developed quite a vocabulary. She was not talking when we picked her up but now has a vocabulary of about 20-25 words.The only issue that has come about is her eye is wondering. She has been evaluted and we found that Ava has a slight stigmatism. The doctor said that we are going to recheck this in one month and then make the decision to wear glasses or eye surgery. If this is the worse case senrio we consider ourselves so lucky!!!! The lord has truly blessed me with a child that loves to wear glasses of anykind! So hopefully, if we need glasses she will leave them on!
We just finished our first post placement vist and our social worker was so pleased with Ava attachment to us. The social worker said Ava returning to me for saftey and comfort several times during the meeting was a great sign.Ava wanted to work on the blinds in her office . When we told her "no" she stuck her bottom lip out and got really sad. She headed right over to me ,crawled up in my arms and laid her head on my shoulder. She said that Ava attachment is really good for such a short time with us.As she could tell we are equally attached to our little girl. She showed S how she feeds her baby doll and then Ava would come and get back in my lap.It is such a great feeling to know that Ava feels secure with us . S told us that Ava must have had someone at the orphanage that she bonded with. She said this would make it easier for her to bond so quickly with us.She also said not to focus so much on the developmental side of this that focusing on the attachment side is so much more important. The other will follow.These are all things that we had read about in preparation for this adoption but it all feels quite surreal when it is your child. I was glad to hear that all of the staying home and keeping her world small is paying off. At times you can feel like you just need to escape the walls of the house. But I have learned that when you slow down a bit you see things that you did not notice before.Through this adoptin we have learned alot about parenting that we did not know before.
Well, thats all for now!If Ava needs glasses I hope they do not show her frames like these ! These are her favorites! We will be in serious trouble!
N

My name is Vava?

2009-01-06T08:49:00.000-06:00

It is hard to believe that the holidays have come and gone! Once again it blew by so fast. Last year around the holidays we were so caught up in the paper chase and dreaming of our precious little girl. When I looked at her over the holidays it was hard to believe that she was sitting right here with us! What a great Christmas we had!Ava brings so much perspective everyday to my life but especially around the holidays.I spent a great deal of time thinking about all of the children that are left behind. I found a program through Adoption Ark that you select a child and send cards for their special occations. Just think how wonderful that would be to recieve a card on your special days from somewhere around the world. Just a little note to lift up their day and let them know that someone cares.For a child that has nothing this could be life changing.Please check this program out. I cannot think of a better way to start out the new year!!!!
Ava is doing so great!She is learning new words everyday. She has all of the basic mama, dada, but when asked what her name is she calls herself Vava! I think we will leave her name Ava on the birth certificate for now. She is continuing to make great progress on outings and defintely becomming more comfortable with large groups of people.We still are continuing to keep her world small. She is happiest when at home surrounded by familiar faces and things. She has been home with us for almost four months now and the changes that we see are so incrediable.Ava now looks for us for comfort when she is hurt. She also is developing a healthy fear of strangers and looking for mom and dad. These are all such good signs of attachment.She defintely has a determined spirit . Some might refer to this as stuborness but I think determination sounds so much better! She is a girl that knows what she wants . Like the pink tutu that Ana sent her. Ava believes that it goes with everything! In fact she will led you all the way upstairs,hand it to you and lay down for you to put it on her. Then she wants to be chaferred all over the house in her dolls stroller with it on! Go figure! She must think she is some sort of Princess!... I wonder where she got that idea?!?!I am posting a couple of photos of the tutu princess in action. As you can tell she was not to fond of the bicycle helmet! She thought it was okay after we got moving.I am also posting two photos of Ava in the same outfit. One was taken our first week home the second taken almost 4 months home! We barely fit the little hotdog in the outfit!
N

Merry Christmas!!!!!

2008-12-25T11:40:00.000-06:00

This is the best Christmas ever! It is so wonderful to have our little girl home with us this year.Last year I spent a lot of time wondering who she was and wondering how her day was spent. This year we are so blessed to have her with us! I am wishing everyone safe travels and a wonderful Christmas! I am now off to rub down with some bengay , take some Tylenol and tackle the new trampoline! Pray that the safety net holds!!!!!I will leave you all with some photos of Christmas eve and Christmas morning. Notice I am posting this before any photos of me on the trampoline surface!
N

Update!

2008-12-18T07:28:00.000-06:00

Just a quick update about Ava's test results. Her CBC and the screening for the coagulation disorder all came back normal! Yeah! We have once again been very blessed! Please pray for Karen's little girl Darya who is having sugery today.She is in our thoughts and prayers .
N

Count down to Christmas

2008-12-13T11:17:00.000-06:00

Well, Ava has been home with us for almost three months now. It is amazing just how much progress she has made. She is attaching to us so well. In Russia ,she would cringe when you would lean into kiss her. She now leans into every kiss and gives the sweetest hugs.I wondered if she would ever embrace our affection and she has surpassed my every expectation.She is such a sweet girl . She can be head strong too.I do not believe that to be a bad thing. I see such determination in her little spirit . I think that combination will make for a very well rounded young women!Look out boys!
We really have felt so blessed with her health . All of the reports from Russia have either checked out OK or cleared up with time. Which brings me to our next hurdle. She has been having pretty severe nose bleeds. They are really scaring for us but she just goes on like it is no big deal. We did some bloodwork yesterday to screen for Von Willebrand Disease. It is a coagulation disease. It is not as severe as Hemophilia. The worst type of this disease is classified as the mildest case of Hemophilia. I have to admit I have been concerned but I still feel extremely blessed with whatever we are dealt.When my doctor first said this He told me do not start worrying.Yeah right!I told my pediatrician just go ahead and write it down and save me some time searching for it.I am a bit tenacious . One thing that I promised Ava that she would never be in a hospital again or face anything alone. From the moment I became her Mommy I became her biggest advocate. I believe that God gives you only what you can handle. We have watched our sweet neighbor battling for his life against cancer. He is nine years old and had his leg amputated this past week. What a lesson that we can all learn from this brave young man!Please pray that Ben continues to heal and that his strength never fades. So, I look at what we are facing and say I will gladly take this if it is his will.We will find out the results next week.
We celebrated Jake's 6th Bday this past week! It seems like he was born just yesterday! What a sweet and silly little fellow he is.We continue to count the days till Christmas. How exciting to share Christmas this year with Ava! How truly blessed we are!!!!
N

Happy Turkey Day!

2008-11-30T09:22:00.000-06:00

We had a great day celebrating all that we have to be thankful for.This year we have a lot ! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving feast with all the trimmings. Ava ate everything ! You name it she ate it! Two days before Thanksgiving she started taking her first unassisted steps! Before we know it she will be into everything! No need to go to the gym ...she is going to supply me with her own version of a workout routine! Here are some photos of Thanksgiving Day. Nick had not combed his hair so he restricted any photos of him!Jake looked distessed in one photo. We think sister was extra heavy after eating lunch!
N

The Sweetest Little Hug!

2008-11-22T07:48:00.000-06:00

We are still here! I have been the worst blogger in the history of mankind! The days of simply checking my email have been replaced with a very busy and active little Goldilocks! It is amazing how far this little lady has come in such a short period of time. We have our appointment to set up Ava's plan with early childhood intervention. Since they have been here for their initial evaluation Ava has been moving forward in her development. She watches everything and just absorbs it like a sponge! Her list of vocabulary has grown quite a bit. When we first met her she did not say a thing . Nothing. Now she is picking up words very quickly . She is still eating everything you give her. Yesterday, she had a whole grill cheese and a bowl of ice cream after lunch! The girl can really put away the groceries . We have not found anything that she does not like!She is standing up alone and we feel that our days before she takes off are numbered! All of the development stuff is really great but what she did yesterday was the greatest milestone yet. I had a lady come to my home to give me a quote about cleaning our home 2 x's a month. I had told her that we have a new baby and I do not have time to chase the dust that is slowly suffocating us all! When she arrived she expected a newborn baby and then Ava's story unfolded. When went through the house and discussed what I wanted and looked at all of the rooms. Ava is on my hip like a little monkey. The women asked me a couple of more questions about Ava. Ava and I were looking at each other and it just happened. Ava put her arms out and hugged me and patted me on the back as she put her head on my shoulder. She then looked up at me so sweetly and did it again. It was the sweetest moment we have had together. It was so wonderful to see her do this on her own. When ECI came out they asked if Ava shows affection. I had to pause and say I guess not. She is climbing on you , time in the rocking chair and being carried around so there is constant human touch. I guess I had not really thought about how she is the recipient of tons of affection but she has yet to return it on her own.What a wonderful feeling it was to see that she had felt enough love and trust for me to shower me with such a sweet moment. I will cherish that moment forever.
Well, we are approaching Thanksgiving and we have alot to be thankful for.I am so grateful for each one of my children . They each are such a blessing! I cannot help but think of all of the little children who will not have a family to spend the holidays with. As crazy as life has been lately around our home If asked would I do this again I can honestly answer in a second!I have a feeling that we are just not done yet. I think God will let us know if and when we should do this again. You just have to follow your heart and he will led the way!
I will leave you all with pictures of Ava and one example of how well she shares with ALL of her brothers!I promise her picture was taken first!
N

A Belated Boo to Everyone!

2008-11-11T11:17:00.000-06:00

Halloween has come and gone! I am a little late in posting pics but I figured I better post them before turkey day photos! We have all been under the weather and I relapsed after Halloween. I am glad to say all is well now. Ava got the cold but she is one tuff little girl. She managed to smile and remain happy despite feeling bad. I on the other hand was not so fortunate!
Ava's first Halloween was interesting to say the least! She was not really sure what was going on .After her response to Nick's costume we decided that her trick or treating at two houses would be enough! I can only imagine that she thought we were just crazy dressing up and then going to strange peoples homes for candy.
Yesterday we had Early Childhood Intervention come out to the house for Ava's evaluation.It is kind of a catch 22 because you want a good evaluation but you also want to qualify for their assistance. They were here for about two hours . Their evaluation was based on observing her and questions that I could answer. They have five areas of development that they estimate a child's approximate age range. I have to say that Dr. Mourdov in Russia was right on the nose with his estimate of Ava being approximately 3 -4 months delayed. She qualified for in all five ares which ECI refers to as global delays. Most of her areas were borderline but either way she qualified to receive their assistance. We feel so lucky to have access to this program . They will come out in two weeks and we will put together a plan for Ava. I will say we are completely amazed at all of the progress that Ava has made since coming home. She is so smart. She is like a little sponge just taking it all in.She is not even the same child that we met in the hospital on trip #1. Based on the fact that Ava had spent the first 9 months of her life housed in a hospital waiting for an opening in the orphanage we knew that she would qualify for a least one of the areas.I am excited about learning some new tools to help assist Ava with her continuing progress.
I will leave you all with some photos of Halloween. As you can see Ava did not like Nick's wig and teeth! Go figure! The girl has got a set of lungs!!!!!
N

Priceless Momentos

2008-10-29T13:20:00.000-05:00

When you are preparing for that first trip there is so much info to remember that it can be so overwhelming. I had a really good group of friends that paved the way before me and helped me remember everything.Some of the best advice that I had received yielded a priceless treasure that we will keep forever. When we travelled to met Ava on trip one I left behind a two disposable cameras and a journal.I was not sure if these items would be used but I requested that they take some photos of Ava and have some of the caregivers write in her journal. I explained that these items will be memories of her life in Russia and would be placed in her lifebook. Much to my surprise when we arrived for our next trip both of the cameras had been used . After developing them we found that Alla had taken the time to photograph various days in Ava's life while we were away. These photos are so priceless to us and I believe will be so for Ava one day.Alla took the journal and wrote entries with beautiful illustrations as well. Ava was so lucky to have a special person to watch over her until we came into her life. Alla was truly heaven sent.While we were away I spent many days wondering what Ava was doing. I wanted to share some of these photos with you all . Maybe you too are wondering what the typical day holds for these kiddos. They are kids that play ,eat, sleep and dream of having a family of their own.I pray that each of their little dreams come true.
N

Make a Smilebox slideshow

One month with her new family

2008-10-24T11:43:00.000-05:00

Wow, I am amazed each time I look at that ticker and see the time flying by. We have had Ava with us for over a month now. It is amazing to think back at that blank little girl that we met at the hospital. She did not cry or make a peep. She had a frown on her face and looked very lost. When we arrived for trip #2 we were met again with that same lost little girl. But after a few days of interaction you could see that sparkle in her eyes. She has been with us now for a little over a month now. Despite the fact that we know that we have a long road ahead , she has made such amazing progress. She has the most infectious giggle that you have ever heard. That giggle is totally reserved for her big brother ,Jake. He can make her laugh like no one else!
Ava has allowed herself to trust me enough to rock her to sleep each night. This would seem like such a simple thing for most. But for a child who has had only herself to rely on it is such a big step.She now relaxes immediately and really snuggles into my chest. When I lay her down she gives me one last look before she goes to sleep. It is a look that makes me wonder if she taking one last look like I might not be there when she awakes. We are always greeted with the biggest grin that says you are still here.
I have spent the last few days thinking about all of the children that are still there. These children live in a sort of limbo waiting for there turn to have someone to love. I have recovered from the jet lag enough now to say we will do this again. I feel certain that God has this in his plan for us. I believe that Ava was chosen for us long ago. She is definitely not what we were expecting(age or ethnicity) but I think that God has a sense of humor and lets you know that he is in charge! We have been blessed with a little girl who is in amazing health despite what her medical report said. We just had to believe in his plan and trust in him.
As each day goes by, I am falling deeper and deeper in love with my little princess. I cannot tell you how many time a day people say "what a lucky little girl she is" when it is us that are the lucky ones.
I am going to leave you now with our very silly girl that has mastered making some really silly faces! We say "Ava don't make the mean face at us! " and guess what she does...yeah, that's my girl!
N

The Sweetest News!

2008-10-18T14:16:00.000-05:00

We have had another really busy week ! I really do not know where all of the time goes. We have had a couple of weeks of doctors appointments checking out Ava's health. I am really happy to report that all of her blood work results were perfect.Even her screening for giardia was negative! She never showed any signs or symptoms but we had it all tested just in case. We had an appointment at the cardiology unit at Texas Children's also. As I had said before Ava's medicals had stated that she had a 1mm hole in her heart and pulmonary stenosis. After a quite traumatizing day of tests I am happy to report that the tests revealed that everything was normal! This was the sweetest news to hear! I had a peace about this news when we first met her but as I sat and watched that ultrasound I really could feel that tension building. It is a really scary thought to think what if. As I watched all of those children in that hospital I really feel like such a lucky momma.Now that we have those big hurdles behind us we can breathe a sigh of relief.
Ava has gained a little weight . We have added a little afternoon ice cream treat in to help her work on those cheeks! I know that girls usually do not desire a double chin but at this age we would be happy with a little roll here and there!
As far as Dad and I she is very clingy and will not go to any strangers at all now. This certainly makes you feel good. We are still keeping her world very small. This really makes a difference in her personality. As for the new addition to our family ...Jury is still out! Ava really likes the cat. Rocky has been so patient with her full body exams! But as for Tex the new kid on the block...lets just say her moves a little too quick for her. I tried to take their photo together but Ava was hauling bootie away from the termite! So here is a couple of photos of them separately ...at least for now! I predict that they will be the best of friends some time in the not so distant future.
Yesterday my sweet neighbors had a baby shower for Ava. It was so nice. They hosted a luncheon and invited all of the neighbors on the street . I was really touched that they planned such a special time for us . I even had people come that I had never even meet yet! It was so nice and we received so many wonderful things for Ava!We have really been blessed with a great street full of wonderful friends!
N

Home at last

2008-10-10T09:03:00.000-05:00

What a emotionally draining last 2 weeks we have had. You can read a million books ,take classes but nothing prepares you for all of the emotions and flood of feelings that absolutely consume you. I have to first say that Ava is an amazing little girl that has a forgiving and trusting heart to have allowed herself to believe in us as quick as she has. Not saying that we do not have many years of issues to face because I think we will but I will say she has done so well considering what her life was before becoming part of our family. We definitely were in the honeymoon stage while we were in Russia. She would sleep 12 hours a night, eat anything you offered and was content. All of that changed when we got to the airport for our flight back home! She was wired. Of course it took us halfway through the flight to realize that she was so overstimulated. This was another one of those moments that you have read all of the info but are clueless that this will apply to your child! Well needless to say the flight was grueling and it ended with her finally going to sleep as we landed. Well it did not end there. When we arrived home she was greeted by our troops! She was not sure about the boys at first but I will say now she adores them. For the first week she was waking up at 3:30 am . So for the first week I will say between the jet lag and her schedule pushing us further into no sleep land I was like a zombie. To add on to this stress our beloved Cody was sick . We were unaware of the extent of his illness till later on in the week. He had waited on me to get home from Russia to show some symptoms. We took him to the vet on Tuesday and he seemed okay but rapidly deteriorated over the course of a few days.We had the vet do everything possible to save his life but despite our best efforts I held him in my arms as we put him to sleep on Friday. We are totally shocked by him leaving us so soon and were definitely not prepared for the void this has left in our life. I truly believe that God does not give you more than you can handle . So I have to trust that there was a reason for this and be thankful for the years that Cody blessed our family. When we found Cody he was a stray pup that someone brought to an animal shelter. The shelter said the last to be adopted was really large black dogs...So that is why we chose Cody.I believe that this is God's way of giving another little animal a chance at a good life. So,We are going tomorrow to meet a large black puppy that we have found at a humane society in the area. When we saw him he reminded us of Cody and we were compelled to call. This will be Ava's first puppy so hopefully they will grow up with each other and be the best of friends.I have such a soft place in my heart for homeless pets and I have shared that same compassion with the boys. I know Ava will have the same soft spot for helping Gods little creatures.
Ava continues to make great strides in her attachment to us. She settles in at night and lets me rock her to sleep. This is a far cry from the baby in Russia that was reluctant to trust me to do that. She is now sleeping from 7:30-8:30 ! She awakes in the morning with the biggest smile ever. She also loves to eat . She will eat anything . The downside of that is she would eat till she is sick. We hope that she will soon realize that the food will always be there and recognizes the sensation of being full.We are continuing to keep her world as small as we possibly can. Imagine all of the sounds and experiences that we see everyday . Now imagine that you have never heard a cat meow , doorbell ring or people coming up to you speaking a language you do not understand. This is all so scary for her. So keeping her life simple is the best gift we can give her.When you think of a 14 month old I do not really think of a baby. Ava is definitely a baby. I really think that was a bit of a shock because you think you are bringing home a toddler but she is a baby in every sense of the word.It is amazing to see the changes that we can already see in her just after 20 days of her being with us.She already calls me mama and knows that when she crys we will be there. That sure makes all the hard work and long wait so worth while.I can only imagine what she will be doing next year at this time!i will post some pics tomorrow hopefully with Ava and her new four legged brother!
Well, that is it for now!
N

Heading Home!!!!

2008-09-25T07:40:00.000-05:00

I can honestly say I have never been so excited about getting on a 12 hour nonstop flight with a 1 year old!We have truly enjoyed our adoption experience here with Catholic Social Services and are so greatful for this precious gift we have received but we are ready to head back home! I think Dorthy summed it up when she said "There is no place like home"!The hardest part of this 3 week trip was leaving my boy's! I cannot wait to see them and for them to meet their new sister. Jake talked to Ava on the phone the other night and she really was excited kicking her feet! Jake has been going around proudly telling everyone about her reaction! She is going to love them both so very much!
We are very anxious to get Ava back home to be evaluated by her pediatrician.The day we received her info at the MOE ,we were told that she has a small hole in her heart and pulmonary stenosis.This can be a scary diagnosis to hear. I left the MOE kind of in a daze and really scared to death. As soon as they placed her in our arms we knew that no matter what was on that medical report we would face it together. I think God blesses you with a sense of peace that only he can provide. So, as we embark on this next stage many prayers for Ava's good health are requested!
Also ,I would request that many prayers be sent up for all the unsuspecting fellow passengers on Singapore airlines on Saturday morning!!!! Hopefully, Mr. Sandman will pay us a visit on the flight!
Paka Paka!
N

Life as we know it!

2008-09-23T12:53:00.000-05:00

Well, life as we knew it has definitely changed! As from all of my blog postings you can all tell we have been a little busy!Life with a baby is a lot of work! Being the mother of two boys has definitely prepared me for Ava. It all comes back to you very quickly! Things here are going very well. Ava has done really well considering all of the change that she has been through this past week. She eats anything ! The formula has been really the only thing that she is not 100 % sold on. We have been using her schedule from the baby home with a few minor changes. So, I think the familiarity helps .The only thing that has been difficult is her bedtime ritual. Like many children that have lived in a institution setting, rocking themselves is a form of self soothing. You can read all of the books but nothing prepares you to see your own child do this. It is really heart breaking. We have been very diligent in rocking her and letting her know that this is now our job. Tonight, Ava did not rock herself at all . She crawled in really close and let me do my job!That seems like such a small victory but we will take it!She is beginning to trust us more and more each day. For once, every thing in the day evolves around her and she loves it!Every child deserves to know what that feels like.
Well, that is all for now.I am leaving you with a coule photos of Ms.Priss ! I told you she was a serious eater! We will be returning home on Saturday and I cannot wait to see the boys! I am not leaving my house for a very ,very long time!
N

Gotcha Day!

2008-09-20T00:22:00.000-05:00

Okay,fellow bloggers today is the day we have been waiting for! I got up extra early this morning and thought I would update my blog now before I get really busy this afternoon.I am really nervous. You would think that I was a first time parent! I would definitely compare this day to both of my inductions. The doctor set up the appointments for labor to be induced.The first face to face meetings with my boys were arranged... no suprise arrivals! This is so similar but only one real difference. We have already met, kissed and held our newest bundle of joy!I have the same butterflies in my tummy that I had on the boy's birthday.The paperwork and the waiting was my labor now comes the good part...When they hand you the baby!
I have to say how surprised we were when we met Ava. When they handed us her info at the MOE with that little photo we were very shocked. We knew that we were travelling to met a little girl under the age of 24 months,any ethnicity. When they took us to meet her this little lady came out carrying somthing almost half her length. When she was unwrapping this precious little package we realized that she was really tiny! This little blonde head popped up with two big grey eyes looking at us.From the minute we met her we knew she was who God had chosen for us long ago.
Well, here is our little Russian angel!Enjoy!
N

Make a Smilebox photobook

The sun is finally shining!

2008-09-17T08:49:00.000-05:00

To all of you who have been basking in the sunlight it might not seem like a big deal but to us in the cold, overcast ...the sun is wonderful!After just a few short days here the weather turned really cold and produced a fine drizzle of rain. On some of the days I have worn three layers of shirts ,a coat, scarf and gloves! I am a true coastal dwelling Texan and I have realized that I flourish in the heat and sunlight! The weather is promised to continue to be good this weekend which is good because we pick up Ms. Priss on Saturday. We visited her yesterday at the hospital and she is so much better! In fact they removed her IV just before we got there. She is being transferred today(Thursday) back to the orphanage, so we will pick her up from there on Saturday. It is amazing to us how different she is after each visit. She now puts her hands out for you to pick her up.She mimics everything you do. Bret would make faces at her and she imitated them perfectly! She also said "mama" yesterday! Now, that really makes your heart smile! It is so wonderful to see what a forgiving little heart this child of ours possesses.
Today, we move into our own apartment. It is located in the same building but different floor.We figured two kiddos in the same apartment could be somewhat chaotic! We have had a great time with our roommates,the Kellams.They have helped pass the time here.We all have approached it with a great deal of laughter. I think humor is a must in a situation like this! So, we are now in the final stretch! I can actually see the "light" at the end of the tunnel.
We are ready to get this little monkey home and see our boy's!!!!!!!So, that is all for now! Check back on Saturday !
N

Answered Prayers!!!

2008-09-13T13:31:00.000-05:00

We got the most wonderful phone call today from Violet our translator! Ava is so much better and maybe getting out of the hospital on Monday and going back to the orphanage!Thanks Violet for taking such good care of us and keeping us informed.
We were blessed twice today! We received more wonderful news from my family everyone is okay and my home had no damage. What a relief!
Thank you everyone for the prayers!
N

No such thing as too many prayers!

2008-09-12T07:04:00.000-05:00

We were able to visit Ava as she had been released from the intensive care unit. We were very alarmed by her breathing. It is so labored and she is very uncomfortable. Despite how she felt she would reach out for Bret and I both. She would also look at you so sweetly and smile. We requested that she be placed back in IC despite the fact we cannot visit her in there. She will receive a better nurse/doctor to patient ratio.We are deeply concerned about her condition and are requesting many prayers for this little angel.She has a very good team of doctors and nurses taking good care of her
On another note ,we live in Houston and my family is facing Hurricane Ike. We live about 1 hour from the coast. Both of my boys are there with my family. I pray that God keeps them safe while we are away.
Well all I can say is ...When it rains it certainly does pour!
N

Another day without baby girl

2008-09-11T06:20:00.000-05:00

On our way to visit this morning our translator received a call stating that Ava was still in intensive care and could have no visitors. So, we traveled to the hospital and spoke to the doctor directly. She said that Ava would be moved to the general area tomorrow and can have visitors in there. It was good to speak to the doctor directly .She said that Ava was better and did not have pneumonia. It was really hard to turn around and walk away knowing that your little baby was just beyond that door and all alone .Anytime my children have been in the hospital, I have stayed with them. I could not imagine being anywhere else.Just the simple touch of another human being has a comforting and healing effect.When we first visited Ava she was in the hospital due to exposure to chicken pox.Isolation had a tremendous effect on her. The child that we met on day 1 was transformed by day 5. Even the hospital staff commented on the change.After next week she will never have to go through anything alone again.When I get that baby in my arms I will never let her go!
N

One step forward two steps back

2008-09-10T03:21:00.000-05:00

We were surprised to learn that Ava was admitted into the hospital last night due to her cough and fever. The orphanage medical staff were concerned about her bronchitis developing into pneumonia.While we were there yesterday we assisted them with the nebulizer to help with her cough.Despite her cough she was so active yesterday. It was hard to keep her still!She was really silly and laughed alot. This is a very strange place to be right now. You have been declared her parents in the court but are caught in the middle of the 10 day wait. Kind of a helpless feeling.They asked that we not visit today.We will get to visit her tomorrow. Please keep Ava in your prayers. We will post tomorrow... hopefully with better news!
N

Better late than never!

2008-09-09T07:13:00.000-05:00

We arrived in Moscow on Sunday afternoon and are just now starting to recover from the jet lag!It hit us both like a freight train. On Monday we had a successful court and are now officially mama and papa to Ms. Ava Alexandra! We are thrilled beyond words! After court we got to visit Ava at the orphanage . She was a little under the weather but they let us take her outside for some fresh air. She has gained 2 lbs. since we saw her last and her hair is longer and curly! I cannot post pictures yet until the 10 day wait is up and we officially take custody of her on the 19th.So you guy's will have to wait!
We have another family that we are sharing an apartment with and have had a great time . But I am ready to get Ava and head home to my boy's! I miss them so much! Well, that is all for now.
N

Organized Chaos!

2008-09-02T13:34:00.000-05:00

I am really not sure if there is such a thing but that sums up life at the Settle house this week! We are preparing our house ,children, pets and family for our final departure to Russia. And I have to say this is not an easy task! We have survived the first week of school. Nick did great ! Jake on the other hand had a slow start and so did I.We spend all of time together so it was like having that umbilical cord officially cut! He seems to be settling in his new routine and so have I.Now, I just have to get my Mom ,Dad, Aunt and Grandmother into our chaotic routine for the next few weeks while we are away. We are so excited to get back to our little girl but I absolutely dread being away from my boys. I pray that the time fly's by for all !
A huge thank you to Uncle Jim and Aunt Carol !!! Today,I was informed by the Secretary of State that some documents needed for court on Monday would not be returned to us for another 10 days! Well, they saved us an unexpected trip to Austin(and a good case of the hives!) and I will forever be grateful!
And last but definitely not least I would like to congratulate Michelle and Ian on the arrival of their daughter,Ana! Welcome Home Curly!
Well, I have to get back to my organized chaos!
N

Hold on Ava...Mommy and Daddy are on our way!!!!

2008-08-26T14:04:00.000-05:00

We got the most wonderful call this morning from our Agency stating that we will be in Russia for our court date on Sept 8th!!!! There is nothing more exciting than to look down at that ringing phone and see your adoption agencies number displayed on caller I.D.!!! With court taking place on September 8th that means we will officially pick up Ava on September 19th and return home on September 27th! We are thrilled beyond words. Congrats to the other CSS families that received good news today. Now, I am off to make all the arrangements!
N

Introducing... "The Dolphins!"

2008-08-24T12:10:00.000-05:00

Today we had opening day ceremonies for Katy Youth Football. This will be Jake's first year to play flag football. Bret was recruited for the head coach and Nick is one of his assistant coaches. Games start in a couple of weeks so the team has been practicing hard. The team is composed of 3-5 year old players so I am sure the games will be full of surprises!We have been keeping busy while we wait for word of a court date . We are so anxious to get back to our little girl! I have already packed her suitcase full of clothes and goodies. I have already packed up the clothes for the orphanage too.Now, we just wait for the phone to ring.(Hint ,Hint K!All phone lines are wide open!)We are expecting news this week. So, say a prayer that it is good news and we will be reunited with our little angel soon!
The dreaded first day of school starts tomorrow!Jake starts Kindergarten and Nick starts high school! Pray that I do not ball till after I leave the building! All it takes is one little look from Jake and I am history!I told Jake that I will come have lunch with him tomorrow . He said how about you just stay after you drop me off in the morning...Oh lord, this is not going to be good!Our backyard backs up to the elementary schools playground. So hopefully that will give Jake some comfort being so close to home.Who am I kidding ...I hope it gives ME some comfort being so close to him! Nick on the other hand has informed me that he is way to big to be escorted into the school so that saves me a little trauma from leaving him! Pray that we ALL survive tomorrow and the boys have a great new year!i will leave you with some photos of KYF opening day ceremonies.
N

Ava's Silent Takeover!!!

2008-08-09T18:53:00.000-05:00

It is amazing that someone so small can take over such a large house!The pink wave has travelled down the stairs and now entered the master bedroom!Today we put Ava's second bedroom together.This is where she will sleep until we feel she is ready to go upstairs. As Bret is assembling the baby bed he said wait till Jake finds out that Ava's sleeping in our room .Mind you he is five years old but currently holds the title as the "baby".At least till little Miss Ava gets here! There is an unwritten rule in our home when one child ends up in our room they ALL end up in our room!!! So, when I told Jake that you are a big boy and need to sleep upstairs in your room, he got the biggest grin across his face. But the grin did not happen before he asked if he could get IN the baby bed! Oh boy are we in trouble or what!Bret and I imagine that we could sell the house and get a one bedroom house with a fifteen car garage!Even Cody,our dog, stood and looked at the bed and then looked at me like how am I supposed to get up and in that bed!Just wait till Rocky gives it a trial run!
Ava, Mommy will do her best to keep them out of your bed ...but you better hurry up and come home!

Faith

2008-08-08T08:23:00.000-05:00

I have posted a link to a ABC segment that featured an interview with the Chapman family.This was one of the most moving interviews that I have ever seen. Despite having the most unimaginable loss that a human could ever experience, they have such an solid faith. After the tragic death of little Maria ,their unwavering faith continues to carry them through.May we all be blessed with the level of faith and conviction that the Chapman family embraces everyday of their lives. May God continue to bless this family and his littlest angel.
*Sorry, I could not get a link but here is the address. Take a look it is truly a wonderful interview.
http://www.abcnews.go.com/video/playerindex?id=5524419

A room fit for a princess!

2008-08-02T17:11:00.000-05:00

We had started on Ava's room long before we knew who she was. When we were in the building process the boy's came in and laid claim on their own room. Nick picked the room that is on one end of the upstairs. Jake had a choice to choose the room next to Nick's or choose one of the other two. He surprised us all when he chose one of the other two empty rooms. He told us he chose this one because he wanted to be close to the new baby. He had decided he was going to take care of his new sister at night...so sweet! I believe that God had placed a special place in each of our hearts for this little angel long before we even got to meet her. Well, after meeting Miss Ava we realize that she is not quite ready for a big girl bed! So, I am posting some photos of her "big" girl room .I still have her bedspread to sew and lamp to find but it is near completion. I have ordered a crib and some bedding that should arrive this week. So, her other room will be in the sitting area of our bedroom.(A wave of pink is slowly taking over the whole house!) We both agreed that this will be good for attachment and not so far away from mom and dad! Sorry Jake, we will take you up on your offer as the "night shift" later! So, we are still waiting and praying on word of a court date soon. If not, we will have a long two months before we will see her sweet face again. That is unimaginable, so we will be returning to Russia for a Ava fix !Michelle has been appointed my official babysitter ,tour guide barbie and partner in crime (that involves our checkbooks) while I am in country! In between the wait I will keep busy with all of my projects. And pray that the time will fly!
N

Retail Therapy

2008-07-24T20:06:00.000-05:00

The boys and I have been getting a jump start on the new school year by doing some school shopping. With one going into kindergarten and the other a freshman in highschool we hit a variety of stores.Each has their own distinct style and of course sizes ,so we went to two different malls.I wanted to make sure that both the boys are all suited up in case a miracle occurs and we travel for court in the month of August. Ava also scored some new duds ! We also could not resist getting some more clothes for the kiddos at the orphanage.They had a great sale on sleepers , blue jean jackets and jeans. Wait till Our driver and translator (V &A ) see Bret and I coming with those bags again! A was a pro at getting all of those bags and all of us in the car! I hope he is ready for round two!!!! I will leave you with some photos of the orphanage donations. Jake has volunteered to be our model . Cody has the night off!
N

Great things

2008-07-16T16:34:00.000-05:00

We have been home for a few days now . And I think we have just about defeated the grueling jet lag that just about killed us both! I have to say that we have both been in a state of shock over the events of the past week . We were so lucky to have had one last visit with Ava on Saturday. She saved the best one for last. She was so different from the little girl that we met on Monday. The doctors said that after two days of our visiting with her she was far more emotional. Well, I have to say Bret and I were truly amazed at her on Saturday. It funny to think that a little person reaching out to you could just melt your heart...and it did. When we had to leave the doctor said we will wait here for you to leave. As we walked away ,I could not bring myself to look back at her. I now wish I would have.
I really have a better understanding now of what is meant by good things come to those who wait. Each step of this adoption process seems to creep by and you have to wonder will it ever happen . Then you move on to the next stage of the process and realize that you have NOW entered the most difficult stage. We met this wonderful and amazing little angel who has stolen our hearts and we had to walk away.So we now will wait and pray for that phone to ring so we can return to our sweet girl and never be apart again. I think I will change the saying to GREAT things come to those who wait!
N

Saying goodbye

2008-07-11T08:56:00.000-05:00

Today ,we had our medicals done. Everyone was very nice and it was not bad at all. I have been a little under the weather today. Hopefully my tummy will be feeling better tomorrow as it will be our last day to spend with Ava. We have really been amazed at all of the changes in her as we visit each day.So, it is very heartwrenching for us both to think of leaving her behind.A friend had shared how she had completed her family both through adoption and through the birth of her children. She had shared that her labor during adoption was far more difficult of the two. Having given birth to two wonderful boys, I have to agree with her. We are so excited about seeing her tomorrow but at the same time having to say goodbye to her just seems unimaginable. Please pray that she knows how much she is loved and for a quick return back to her.
N

2008-07-10T12:58:00.000-05:00

We are having a wonderful week with Ava! We have been so excited with all of the progress she has made with us in the past few days.She was sitting in my lap the other day and I felt something warm on my leg. She had sprung a leak! The ladies all ran around cleaning things up and looking at me not sure how I would react.I think after I broke out in laughter that said it all!Little do they know I am the mother of two boys. Need I say more? I have seen ,heard and worn everything gross that you could imagine! From boogers to ...well let's just saw I have exsperienced it all!I wore that baby pee pee with pride!We are really starting to get anxious about leaving her here. She has a wonderful group of caregivers that take such good care of her. That will help us with the difficult task of going home without her.
We have our 8 doctor medical exam tomorrow.We are going to squeeze in one more visit in with Ava before our trip is up.We have been taken such good care of by our driver and translator this week. Without them our trip would not have gone as smooth as it has. They took us under their wings and have kept us safe and entertained! We have really loved all of the agencies staff in Russia. What a great group of people ! They truly love these children and make it their life work to help these children. May God bless each one of them!
Well, we are off to bed!The jet lag is kicking our booties!B is already snoring!

Paka!
N

We are really here...I promise!

2008-07-08T10:12:00.000-05:00

First I have to say that I am the worst blogger in the history of man kind! We have been so exhausted physically and emotionally that we are not even sure what day it is!
We left Houston at 11:45 Sunday night but not before a lot of tears were shed! The boy's and I were having seperation issues! They managed to drive off with my parents without me hooked on the bumper of the car! I miss them terribly!Our flight was uneventful and despite Bret's prediction that I would take the plane down with all SEVEN of our bags we arrived without incident. No I did not bring my whole closet ! We had 2 Huge bags of clothes for the orphanage. Bret provided some much needed comic relief by falling down with the luggage!But what was really funny was the look on our drivers face when he saw Bret approaching with all of our stuff...priceless! So I know you guy's are saying get to the good stuff already!
We arrived at the Ministry of Education Monday morning to receive our official referral. I cannot share any details about the child out of respect for her privacy. They ask if you would like to meet the child ...Bret said I did not let them finish the question and interrupted with a firm and loud yes! We had Dr. M meet us to evaluate the child and he was wonderful. We would have been really scared without his help. Well, after our first visit with the baby our translator asked what we thought ...Bret said can we take her home now! He is in big trouble on day 1 she manged to wrap that man around her pinky finger ...really tight!
So , I guess you all figured out that we have both had our hearts stolen by this dancing Russian princess !!! And yes she really dances. We are really excited about this new chapter in our life and cannot wait to bring baby Ava home!

N

Just a few more days!

2008-07-02T08:34:00.000-05:00

Did you look at that ticker? We have our visa's in hand and are ready to go! Well ...kind of!I can hardly imagine that in a few short days we will be meeting the newest addition to our family...our daughter! We have been buzzing around finishing up last minute details for our trip. There has been so much to do that just when I think I am done... something else pops up!
We are so excited about this blessing of adoption but I am also suffering from a mix of other emotions. I absolutely dread leaving my boys! The thought of going so far away from them is weighting so heavy on me. I know they will be in good hands with my Mom and Dad but I will miss them terribly!Today I am going to spend the day with my boys and enjoy every minute of it! My cousin,Shan, shared some advice with me some years back that I have come to rely on whenever I am faced with uncertainty or fear. She said if you just give your troubles to God he will carry you through. She said when you do it the troubles will be replaced with a feeling of peace . I have relied on this at so many times in my life and it works.So I will once again lay all of this at his feet and wait for any fears that I feel to be replaced with his peace.
Well, our next post will be from Russia! I will do my best to keep everyone updated as the events unfold.Please keep our boy's and this little girl in your thoughts and prayers!You can never have too many of those.
N

One Crazy Mama!

2008-06-24T09:05:00.000-05:00

Since we received the call I have been running around gathering stuff for our trip! My mind has been going in a thousand different directions! I think I am suffering from some sort of sensory overload ... smoke could billow out of both of my ears at any moment!
We are so excited about meeting our daughter but sad about leaving our boys! Nick just turned 14 this past week and I think he will be OK .Now Jake is 4. He is tough as a boot on the outside but still a momma's boy! He still does not have a good grasp on time so hopefully it will go by fast for him with T and Pop! When the social worker came for our first home visit Jake thought she was bringing the baby then! He was so disappointed!He was ready to play! I pray that they are safe and having fun while we are gone!
It amazes me how God prepares you for the "birth" of a child . I am waking up earlier and earlier each night! I remember doing this with both of the boy's. I believe that this is his way of preparing you for sleepless nights ahead. Hmm...I will have to buy some extra concealer to camouflage those big bags I will be lugging around!
Well off to finish packing! I have got to try how to figure out how to fit 75 lbs. of orphanage clothes in my bags!I priced the shipping costs to Russia for the 2 boxes ...$650. ...EACH!!!!
Needless to say we will pay the airline extra $ to bring them.Congrats to all of the Families that have court this week!
N

Travel Dates!

2008-06-18T18:36:00.000-05:00

We are happy to announce we have travel dates! We will be traveling the week of July 5th! We were completely caught of guard with the phone call! We figured that it would maybe be coming the end of the week or maybe next week . Of course we were out of town with none of our paperwork! So we returned home and frantically began making plans! We are so excited that we will be meeting our daughter in just a few weeks! Then so many of our questions will finally be answered. Who is she ,what does she look like and what is the beginning of her sweet life story. I have spent countless hours thinking about her and what it will be like when we meet her. It is hard to imagine that all of these questions will be answered in just a few short weeks! Please pray for her . My hope for her is that she has someone that has showed her the love and security that every child deserves. I hope she knows how much she is loved and that she already has such a special place in our hearts and family!
N

Toga anyone?

2008-06-10T08:22:00.000-05:00

As we wait for specific dates for travel, I have been trying to keep busy! I have been focusing on getting her room completed. This has taken us a bit longer than we had anticipated. Getting a room ready for a "princess" has been a bit more challenging than the boys! I have two boys and I know what they like! I never thought that I would catch and hold a bug or embrace dirt the way I have over the years... but I have. I have evolved from a "girlie girl" to a woman with boys!So, trying to reconnect with that" girlie girl" again is like looking for something that you stuck in the back of the closet !But I think I have found it! Her room has been a bit challenging but really fun! I am finishing the drapes today and will have some photos up in the next couple of days. As kind of a teaser ,I am posting a picture of my drapery consultant.He decided to utilize all fabric scraps and victimize my poor shrubs! I hope this is not a glimpse of his college years! I am having flash backs of John Belushi in"Animal House"...YIKES!

The Call

2008-06-06T08:06:00.000-05:00

We received a call from our agency on May 23,2008 .Yes, that was two weeks ago today!This was not just any call but "The Call" that every prospective adoptive parent waits for! Our dossier has been registered in Moscow! I think over the past 2 weeks I have experienced every range of emotion that has been possible.For those of you that know me well keeping such exciting news is not easy! But thanks to my duo of adoption angels they have satisfied that need to share this great news.With out the two of them this "labor" would be like trying to do it without your coach. And I have been blessed with not one coach but two!

I have sat down several times to post on our blog and I have deleted the post and walked away. For numerous reasons I have been a little scared to put the info out there. Maybe it would be somewhat of a jinx to announce anything or maybe she would end up with another family( her own or a Russian family ) getting to have her in the end. I have had two weeks now to absorb this info and feel ready for just about anything...well ALMOST anything!The region we will travel to is a blind region . We will receive no information about this child prior to travelling.I have spent so much time wondering what she will look like,will she like us ,what will she think when she meets us, and the list goes on.I have kept up with so many families that have been traveling to meet their children. The stories that they have shared have been so wonderful, some funny and some sad.So no matter how you look at it this entire journey is a leap of faith. We are so excited about getting to meet this special little girl! Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers along with all of the other little orphans that are waiting for a family of their own.

We will keep everyone posted as the events unfold!

N

The past week!

2008-05-28T11:03:00.000-05:00

We have been so busy this past week! Jake had his Pre -K graduation this past Thursday.In the program he was asked to do the hula hoop.Wow ,he did a great job! He bid a sad farewell to his friends and teachers from this year.But he is filled with excitement about attending elementary school this Fall. We live in a great area filled with tons of kid's! Not to mention the security he feels that the elementary school's playground boarders our backyard fence! It is always great to know that Mom is just on the other side of that fence!

Over the Memorial holiday we went to my Aunt's bayhouse.Bret and I are horrible about photographing various events as they unfold. We always have great intentions but the camera rarely makes it out of the car!!! As for this weekend ... no exception! You will have to take my word for it that we had a great time fishing and swimming. I will leave you with the only evidence that the weekend was a blast! This is Jake in the car on the way home. I was forbidden to post the photo of Nick but I will say ...Lots of snoring and drooling was going on!

A wonderful suprise!

2008-05-21T11:37:00.000-05:00

We started this journey to adopt last year at our home in Dallas. We had research agencies and countries and prayed that there would be a clear sign of where we were supposed to go. We truly believe that this adoption was planned for us long ago. Our hearts are filled with the love for a child we have never seen or met . So the lengthy research began.Along the way ,we encountered some wonderful people who shared their knowledge of the adoption process and their love for these children. One such agency ,that deals with placing special needs children , had a referral of a very special little girl.This child was far from "special needs "in our book but just incredibly special. I studied that little photo for weeks as we started gathering the necessary documents.It is amazing how emotionally invested you can become to a little photo. We received a call that another family was paper ready and officially had accepted the referral. As hard as it was to hear,We were truly happy for that little girl. She now would have a family to call her own.
Today,I was looking through some various adoption blogs when I came across a title that just caught my eye. To my surprise ...it was her! She looked amazing! How great that is to see that she received a wonderful family . She is with the family that God had chosen for her long ago.It just made my day! He certainly does work in mysterious ways!I believe that this is one of those moments sent our way to renew our patience and faith in this long journey.I take great comfort in trusting in his plan for us and faith that the daughter that he has chosen for us will be revealed soon! Now... I will return to decorating my daughters room! I sure hope she likes pink!!!!I will reveal photos soon!
Until then,
N

My baby is growing up!

2008-05-17T15:41:00.000-05:00

This past Friday night my oldest son,Nicholas,attended his first dance.We went out shopping that afternoon for some clothes. Of course he headed straight for the Kenneth Cole Store( thank the lord that it is an outlet!)Thanks Kevin for planting that seed of fashion in my 13 year old! Anyway he had a great time at the dance. At this age there was not a lot of dancing.I imagine the girls were on one side and boys grouped on the other!Like a group of animals evading a predator! Wow, I feel old! It seems like yesterday Nick was just a little baby and wanted to be carried around.Now, he could carry me ! Anyway I will leave you all with some photos of the big event!Next year he will be in high school. I imagine that the next dance photo will have a girl standing next to him! I am way to young for this!!!

The Wait

2008-05-09T11:21:00.000-05:00

Yes, We are still here! Sorry I have not posted in a while but there has not been any new news on the adoption front. We have been patiently waiting for the Russian holiday to be over . We are really hoping that there will be some new activity this approaching week as they all return back to work! So...in the meantime we have been keeping busy trying not to think about how much longer till we receive "The Call"!!! This week a friend traveled for her 1st trip to met her daughter. She was so kind and generous to share such a special time with all of her fellow PAP's. I know that hearing her thoughts and experiences helped renew my hope that this will one day be a reality for us as well.Thank you O! These past few weeks I have reflected about the waiting portion of my paper pregnancy and how difficult it has been.But what has been on my mind this week is how difficult it must be for those children that are waiting.These children see some of the other children in their group leave with their new families. As time goes by they probably ask themselves when is it going to be my turn or why haven't I been chosen.For some, they will be lucky and get wonderful families that will show them the love of a Mom and Dad.For the others,they will wait... forever.I hope and pray that each child will know the love of someone in their life, whether it be a family or a devoted caregiver.These thoughts have put my waiting in perspective.It has been over a year since we first started on this journey ,in comparison some children have been waiting their whole life.
I will leave you with some projects that we have completed .One image is of the putting green( with a dry creek w/a bridge!) for the kid's and the other is the drapes in Bret's office.Yes MO,I really finished them!These projects really have helped the time go by . I will not say faster but have helped me cut back on the number of times I check the caller i.d.,emails and blog stalking!I do believe that Dr. Phil could devote a whole show to the additions of PAP's!!!!!
Nicole

Oh Yes Michelle... More shopping!!!!!!

2008-05-01T16:52:00.000-05:00

I have to admit I am not a person that goes to the mall on a regular basis. I know alot of you might find that hard to believe! I went back to the mall to pick up two items that I had on hold . After reading Michelles blog about her shopping extravganza at the Children's Place, I felt compelled to see if there was anything that I had missed for the orphange. Well ... I walked out with five huge bags full to the rim! They had a sale that I could not pass up! there was not one item that I purchased that was more than .99 ! Their hats and gloves were only .49! I had missed a sale rack the day before that had all heavy coats that were just .99! I was only able to find 2 left. As soon as I got home, I found two sales associates in other states that might have some in boxes. Keep your fingers crossed that they find some! How great would those coats be for those children.
This shopping trip yielded:

2 heavy coats
42 pj's
15 pairs of gloves
23 sweaters
11 fleece pullovers
6 hat
________________
Grand Total:$ 86.00!!!! I will leave some photos of all of my treasures ! Enjoy! N

The benefits of retail therapy!!!

2008-04-29T21:51:00.000-05:00

Just what the doctor ordered! There is something about shopping that just makes you feel better! I set out on a mission today to stretch the dollar bill as far as I could! I set a budget(which I totally ignored) and got tons of clothes for the children in the orphanage.The girl at Gymboree went in the back and pulled out a box of hats and gloves for .99 each!I also hit Carters and made out like a bandit there too. I figured this was a productive way to kill time while waiting for the call. I will leave you guy's with a few photos of some of the goodies !Enjoy!

Granny

2008-04-27T09:08:00.000-05:00

One week ago today ,we received a call that Bret's mother had passed away. She had brief but no less courageous fight against the cancer that ravaged her body. This passed week has been spent reflecting back on happier times spent together as a family. Nancy was above all else a wonderful grandmother.She lived her life through each one of her four grandchildren.Where most women first learn the news that they are moving into "grandma" status,they thought of being labeled with one of the traditional names, accompanied by the stereotypical images, really horrifies them. Not Nancy! She relished in the fact that her two boys had each entered fatherhood and gave her the greatest gift of all...Grandchildren. She was then referred to as Granny. She picked the title out that to most brought images of a elderly women with a cane sporting a grey bun. She was far from that .I regret that our daughter will not ever know her and miss out on the love that Granny would have showered her with. Nancy would have provided this child with the understanding and perspective that someone who was adopted themselves could provide. We love and will continue to miss her everyday.We take comfort in knowing that she is not suffering anymore and that she is finally home.
N

I171-H !!!

2008-04-16T14:23:00.000-05:00

The USCIS Houston office is on top of their game!That is a statement that would shock most in the adoption arena. Especially with all of the families that have suffered waiting for that one piece of paper ! To my shock ,we received our I 171-H this past Saturday! We were scared that this one piece of paper would delay us being registered . Russia now requires the parents to have their I171-H in hand to register in a region. We sent our original application to the USCIS on January 7,2008 . On March 11,2008 we learned that our application was thrown away because the Houston office does not accept personal checks! Despite what the USCIS online information or the customer service line states, check with your local office to see what their polices on this are!Anyway... we refiled on March 12,2008 and had our approved 171-H in hand on April 12,2008!That was only a 32 day turnaround. We had a lady by the name of Ess that was so helpful . I believe if the Department of Homeland Security hired more people of her caliber there would not be children waiting and families struggling to get this crucial piece of paper . Now, we are really ready !!! ... if only the phone would ring!

Friday

2008-04-11T09:46:00.000-05:00

The saying "Thank God it's Friday" just does not invoke the same feelings it did just a few short weeks ago. On January 25,2008 my precious grandfather, John Jackson Marshall,made his final journey home. We were all so blessed to be there with him as he left us .I could not imagine a better way to leave this earth than being surrounded by all who loved you in this life. His love and devotion to my grandmother ,his family and his faith made him such a remarkable man. Fridays for me are a mix of joy and sadness. I am sad for the loss of such a wonderful grandfather but also filled with joy that his suffering has ended and he is whole again. His life has served as such an example for so many people.I wanted to share his wonderful legacy that he had shared with all that crossed his path. I hope that his life continues to serve as a example of what a positive impact one person can have in this world!I love and miss you lots Papa! I am leaving with one of my favorite photos of Nana and Papa praying with one another.Now that is a love story!

The power of prayer

2008-04-04T08:47:00.000-05:00

There is alot to be said about this statement! Our CSS family has started a prayer chain and good things have been happening! I believe that every prayer is answered ,maybe not within our time frame but on his according to his plan. I have relinquished this adoption to God and designated him be the driver.But maybe I am still backseat driving a little!With that said ...Than why am I having these crazy dreams! When I was pregnant with both of my boy's ,I would have the craziest dreams! I would forget the baby at a store or look down in the stroller and see this tiny baby that I had forgotten to feed! This "paper pregnancy" is having the same effect but different dreams. My husband said of the 17 years that we have been married he has never heard me talk in my sleep . Poor thing ,I did it all night. Maybe its payback for all of the snoring that I have endured! The dreams are about not getting to the phone to get the call about the referral. I can hear it ringing and know that it is CSS but cannot find the phone. Someone that does dream analysis might say that it has to do with fear of missing the call. I have to admit I have been a slave to the phone ,caller i.d., and the house! I went out yesterday for a little outing with my Mom and it felt great! Despite the break ,I still had a restless night. I believed that when you are pregnant and you suffer from insomnia that is God's way of preparing you for the sleepless nights of motherhood ! Maybe our new daughter is a night owl! Let's hope not cause I am not!It is amazing to me the similarities of both "pregnancies".
On another note , I probably will not post everyday for now. I will do a weekly post unless something great happens! Have a great weekend!
N

Post # 1!

2008-03-31T13:39:00.000-05:00

Well here it goes! This is my first attempt to join the world of bloggers! For those of you that do not know me this is quite a feat. I have spent so much time over this past year following the various blogs of families in the process of international adoption. These blogs have been so helpful supplying much needed information and hope . I felt this blog would be the least we could do for the families that are a few steps behind us on this great adventure. Kind of a "pay it forward" inspired blog! I hope that our blog serves as a great information tool for families either in the process or thinking about adoption. Although last weeks entry would have provided great info on how to remove a lego lodged in a 5 year old's nostril... I will spare you all the details!

All of the necessary paperwork is in Russia...and now the wait begins. For those of you that are not familiar with the waiting stage, I believe this will be one of the most difficult parts of the process. But after seeing all of the happy little faces of the children that are finally home,it will be well worth the wait! Now, I am going to attempt to throw myself into other projects to pass the time and pray that it goes by quickly!

One final note...Please pray for my mother -in- law. She is in her final stages of cancer. It is kind of bitter sweet to be excited about being blessed with a new little life , as someone else is leaving ours.

N