Thursday, November 29, 2007

The ending of fall.......


This is a photo taken on our last hike, which ended up being our last one of the fall. Yep, winter seems to have finally hit midwest Ohio. I think we were quite spoiled as fall seemed to last longer this year. Anyway, I will post more pictures from this hike as it was a beautiful day full of color, leaves, and wonderful weather. Wishing everyone much hope and joy as we enter the holiday season, especially for those in this "wait" to be united with their children.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

5 years old and a princess party.........























Lily turned 5 today! We started the day with Lily coming to our bed and asking about every birthday she has had. She is always interested in her first birthday, so we let her know that we were not with her when she turned one, but that we loved her and celebrated her birthday even though she was not with us yet. This all ultimately leads to the story of our traveling to China and "Gotcha Day". It seems we re-tell this story many times a year and Lily loves hearing it. It was a great way to wake up and start the celebration. Well afterwards, it was time to get ready for the princess party! Soon, everyone arrived and was dressed for the occasion. We had a ball! Grandma and Pop-Pop were here too, and Dylan and Melanie were a great help (we especially appreciate Melanie being the 'locked up' fair lady, since all the princesses wanted to be the bridges:). Lily had a great time. When we tucked her in tonight, she asked, "can we do it again." "When you are 6", I replied. "Okay, let's make it about zebras next time". "Okay". "What was your favorite part about today?", I asked. "Locking up Melanie in bridges and the story we tell about you coming to China mama." That's my favorite part too", I replied. I read her ballerina book (while attempting to hold back the tears), and off to sleep she went. Sweet dreams my dear daughter, sweet dreams.





Saturday, November 10, 2007

Happy Birthday DH





The good thing about a large family is the number of birthdays and celebrations that bring us together each year! These are a few pics from our celebration of Curt's birthday; breakfast out at Cafe Marie. Melanie brought the most wonderful pumpkin cake. We had a great time and lots of laughs, although missed Cadence and Colton who are off at college. Although it is a good thing to treasure the moments with children when they are young (as it goes so quickly), I will have to say that I love, love, love hanging out with my older "kids" that are now adults. It is so amazing to see their lives and dreams unfold. I am so proud of each one, and find so much joy in being part of their lives.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Time for a winter coat................




Well, it is now time to bring out the winter coats in Ohio anyway. I think we have been spoiled with all the great fall weather and were surprised to see a few snowflakes come our way today. Anyway these are some pics of Lily in her new coat. Glad she likes it, as it seems she will be sporting it often for awhile.........