Chasing Kacey

Wow, has it been since January....

2011-03-20T20:35:00.003-04:00

Welcoming Baby Kell to the family!

Out at the father/daughter dance with PopPop

Hanging out with all the cool cats at Universal and learning the Hula at the Royal Pacific, never a dull moment around here I'll tell you!

Better late than never here are a few photos from the new year. We hope everyone is ready for spring I know that we are. Even Floridians get "spring fever"!!!

Love you all...

Happy New Year!!!!!!!

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Here's hoping for a healthy and happy new year to all! These pictures are dedicated to Jan who doesn't facebook and misses seeing bloggy photos...we love you Jan!!!!

Bad Blogger!

2010-12-05T20:21:00.004-05:00

My mother said I needed to get on the stick so I'm going to upload some pictures from Thanksgiving to redeem my good blogger status.

So much to be thankful for...my mom, dad, brothers and of course Kacey.

4 Years as a family and counting....

2010-09-16T09:04:00.003-04:00

Then....first in China then in the driveway playing a little ball with the grandparents soon after arriving home!

and now at a wedding in VA playing princess in the horse drawn carraige and always mom's princess!

Our official gotcha day is September 18th but we are going take a trip with Nana and some friends to the beach this weekend to celebrate so I'll just get this up in advance rather than late.

4 years, where has the time gone!!! It seems like yesterday and it seems like forever that Kacey has been part of our family she continues to grow and become more beautiful everyday and we are most honored to be her family. Kindergarten has been just one of the milestones this year (still waiting to lose a tooth like Jena) and Kacey loves it she tells everyone that asks that she LOVES kindergarten and her terrific teacher Mrs. Bloom. She's acceling in her work and making lots of new friends, still misses her BFF from pre-school but luckily they go to Sunday School together and live close by so they get to see each other often:)

There is not a day that goes by that I do not thank the people of China for entrusting me with Lu Xiao Mei and for her birthparents who risked harm to make sure she was delivered safe and sound to Luan Child Welfare Agency where she was cared for until that fateful day in September 2006. This is how Kacey tells the story (thanks to the I love you like Crazy Cakes Book for helping define it to perfection)

...a lady in Georgia had a wonderful family but was missing a daughter, a baby in China was living in a big room with lots of friends and nannies taking care of her but she really needed a mama. The lady wrote a letter asking to adopt one of the babies in the big room and the people in China said yes IF she would PROMISE to take good care of her and love her FOREVER (she says this loudly). The lady said yes and got on a plane with her nana (my mom) and bags packed with toys, snacks and diapers and came to get her. The first day they met I cried because I was scared and mommy cried because she was soooooo happy. We played in China with our friends for a week, got on a plane and went home to Georgia...Pop, Jimbo, Kevin and Danielle were at the airport to say hi and meet me. We went home and lived happily ever after! She tells it to anyone who will listen and I get teary every single solitary time.

Oh how I love that sweet (most of the time) girl and can't imagine a life without her as my centerpiece. Happy Family Day Sweet Kacey...you are loved and cherished by so many.

1st Day of School...A Milestone!

2010-08-24T16:15:00.003-04:00

Ready for the BIG Day!

At the bus stop with her buddies Katie and Brady.

Sitting out front yes I followed the bus and brought her in.

Well the first day has came and went and all is well. We started with an absolute monsoon at the bus stop which continued through lunch time thought I may need to start building an ark:) Kacey loved riding the bus and her new teacher, the cafeteria was a little daunting but she made it through without a hiccup.

They called me when she got in the car this with my mom this afternoon, all she wanted me to know was that there were "important" papers in her backpack for me to sign. I guess that means she had a good day we are going out with a few other families to celebrate tonight I think I need it even more than she does.

Another day, another milestone I look down the road and know there will be many more but for today I'll just enjoy this one and know that she is happy!

Meet the Teacher!

2010-08-20T13:32:00.003-04:00

a few photos from busch gardens on Sunday.

Not sure I am prepared for this day but it is here we head to the "big school" to meet Kacey's new teacher, classmates and parents tonight. The first day of school is Tuesday, she seems much better prepared than me. I couldn't even sleep last night, really I hope it was indigestion rather than being nervous about an open house:)

The word from the "professional moms" is that Kacey's new teacher is absolutely terrific and we will all love her. Nana is coming along to the meeting since she does the lionshare of the schools interactions during the year and picks her up every afternoon...plus she is a "professional mom" and will streamline the process for all of us.

You may wonder what a "professional mom" is well my definition is someone who knows everything about the teachers, community and school, most likely has more than one child, is always up to date on the activities and is the first to sign up for said activities. These women are really quite amazing I can barely keep up with school holidays in my calendar and they have already signed up for the PTA, I wouldn't know what to do without them and I know for sure that I'll never be in their league but I always bring the juiceboxes (after they tell me to bring them).

Happy first day of school to all my little darlings I'll post more on Tuesday.

4 Years of Love!

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My little warrior princess, I love you more every day!

First slow dance, so, so, so sweet then she fell alseep on Bobby's shoulder! Happy Birthday Mommy!

We love you Jena!

Claire you are such a good big sister we love you too!!

The cheering at my office started 4 years ago Tuesday when Lu Xiao Mei's face popped up on my computer screen it was the cheer heard round the world from Sharon in Hong Kong, my teams in Korea, Tokyo, Brazil and the Phillipines, my parents in South Florida and friends from the mid-west and up and down the Eastern Seaboard. The Warrior Princess was coming home and there was joy in Atlanta, GA and beyond.

Fast forward to today and joy just continues to grow and blossom each day just like Kacey! She is getting ready for kindergarten and thoroughly enjoying her time at camp. I feel very blessed at how well adjusted she is and what a absolute treat she is to be around. If I may brag a bit she is smart, funny and kind and also tell the rest, beyond those lovely qualities she has some temper and is pretty darned bossy but the temper comes out rarely and she is a lot like her mom with the bossy thing so we just take turns being in charge:)

The nicest part of all is that we are just a regular happy family, we look different from each other but we have the same issues and concerns as our friends and really that is all you can ask for!

Wishing much love and happiness to our Anhui Sisters and all our precious China Sisters home with their loving families! 4 years seem like forever just like our family.

A Milestone!

2010-06-21T08:55:00.003-04:00

With Kirby and Deanna...I'll want to revisit this in 10 years! First roses for all from Nana

With her BFF

Matching with Mom!

Graduation from Pre-K in pictures...she is growing up before my very eyes! When I close them I see her graduating from high school, getting married, having babies of her own then I hurry up and open them back up to keep her small and safe with me.

Dad's Day Breakfast!

2010-06-04T08:18:00.003-04:00

It was Dad's Day at Kacey's school and Pop Pops were invited too...here she is very excited about my Dad's visit and the powdered sugar donuts!!!

Happy Birthday Bev!

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I called to wish her a happy birthday and she got on me for not updating Kacey's BLOG so these are for you Bev...have a great one!!!

I LOVE Spring!

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And here's why...
The first sleeveless dress of the year even if you have to take a sweater! Ladybugs on your dress and your hair clips.

Getting to wear your flower headband to school.

Feeling good rich dirt on your hands (and face)

Spring has Sprung!

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such a sweet face, even spotted with mud! Don't you love the outfit she chose to garden in:)

A sure sign of spring is flowers outside the window and a very muddy girl! Well the later is a new thing, she didn't want anything to do with the mud in the past.

Tuxedo Tuesday!

2010-02-09T11:03:00.005-05:00

With her buddies...

Walking the red carpet into class!

It is dress up day at school today and Kacey was fired up and ready to GO! Here are a few photos. Next post, Valentine's Day party on Friday, the dress is picked out along with matching hair ties and shoes:):):)

Rock and Roll Dreams!

2010-01-08T08:52:00.003-05:00

Well it finally went on sale and Kacey got her rock and roll dress. She woke up at 6:30 ready to put it on and go to school I think I'll let her wear it everyday. Heck if Jena can be a Philadelphia Eagle Kacey can surely be a rock star!

Please note the hairdo that she designed for the day.

Christmas Bliss

2010-01-04T13:19:00.005-05:00

riding the new bike in her Christmas dress, very practical and posing with some new stuffed animals.

With Uncle Kevin in her ice princess attire

Finally the entire family wishes you all a merry christmas and happy new year!

Here are a few pictures from Christmas we had a wonderful one and hope that all of you did too. Happy New Year to all!!!

A few more Christmas pictures...

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Merry Christmas to All!

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We've just about made it to the finish line. I start my holiday vacation tomorrow at noon, the gifts are bought and wrapped, the gingerbread house is decorated and only the grocery shopping is left to be done. Kacey is beyond excited and now that she finally likes Santa she is quite sure she is going to do well--she is:)

It's been a quite a year we lost friends that will be missed mightily this Christmas but I consider it my quest to continue to celebrate and dance like no one is watching (except for them up in heaven) in their honor! Kacey continues to bring us great joy and for that I am most grateful. We have been together 4 Christmases and every one is better than the last.

We wish you all a very merry Christmas and Happy Happy New Year and leave you with Kacey's Christmas pictures. My friend Heather took them in a local park and I think she looks just beautiful!

One More Picture!

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Kacey and her sweet Nana dressed and ready to go!

We Were a Part of It...

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a little New York attitude on the Staten Island Ferry

Posing before the Rockettes show.
She has always loved hotels and this one was no exception.

The carraige guy let her stand up in the seat for a better view.
An eskimo kiss for mommy, all the thanks I'd ever need:)

New York, New York! Well we 3 generations of Thomas girls visited the Big Apple this past weekend to enjoy the sites and get ready for Christmas. The weather did not cooperate but Kacey got to see snow, the Statue of Liberty, ride through Central Park in a horse drawn carraige, ride a ferris wheel inside the largest Toys R Us in the land and see the Rockettes. Not bad for a 5 year old channeling a very stylish New Yorker! Enjoy the pictures.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

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And Kacey is NO LONGER a rejector!!!!! No way she sat on his lap and had a nice chat with the jolly old guy...it took 4 years but here you have it.

Have a very Happy Thanksgiving, eat lots of turkey and shop hard my friends. Except for Shelley who is ALL DONE with her shopping!!!!

Disney with Amelia!

2009-11-18T09:04:00.003-05:00

What a fun time we had this weekend with our friends, Amelia, Jimmy & Cindy! It was Amelia's first trip to Disney and she loved every single minute. They are staying for the entire week so she'll be a pro by Friday! Here are a few pictures from the day...more later.

You may ask WHY do they go to Disney so often? Well it is only 1 hour away and we have season passes so it is a great way to spend a weekend especially this time of year when the parks are empty:)

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-02T09:42:00.004-05:00

with the cool teeth at her Friday Fun Day at school.

The neighborhood gang, one year older!

The princesses ready to GO GO GO!

Dig those guts out!

Alice for a few moments!

Another one full of candy and fun. Along with a few costume changes...started as Alice in Wonderland ended with Ariel. OH WELL, as long as it is not ITCHY!!

It is Birthday Season!

2009-10-27T12:30:00.003-04:00

So much work to do and so little time, at least I'm dressed well!

How do I look? You look good birthday girl.

getting strong and looking GOOD!

Do I look like a princess? You bet you do E.

We had two more parties this past weekend. Sweet Bailey turned 5 and the twins, Hannah & Cody turned 2 (can you believe it). We had such a great time, here a few photos of B's party the dressing up was a HUGE hit!

A few more birthday pictures...

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Upside down blowdrying usually not a skill for a 5 year old!

Presents are good.

Flowers are wonderful!

I may be 5 but I still LOVE my mommy.

Happy Birthday to Kacey!

2009-10-15T11:22:00.003-04:00

Today is her 5th birthday and boy is she excited! She got to serve the cupcakes during snack time, wear a crown and go anywhere she wants for dinner--what a day.

While I was serving the cupcakes at school I was singing Jesus loves the little children song in my head since her class look like a little UN:) They were all so sweet and looked so darned cute with their frosting mustaches it was amazing how quick the sugar kicked in I had to get the heck of out dodge FAST.

Happy Birthday Sweetie Pie enjoy every single moment of it...just think you get to do another party on Saturday!

Same Princesses NEW Year!

2009-09-28T10:13:00.001-04:00

We took a short trip over to Disney on Saturday here are a few pictures of the princess with the princesses...she never gets tired of these ladies:)

3 Years As A Family...where does the time go?

2009-09-10T11:41:00.016-04:00

First time I saw her face on my computer screen...our little warrior princess!

With my sweetie-pie

Funny faces she loves when I make them so I do it all the time I have no shame anymore!

First moments, September 18, 2006 in Hefei, Anhui, China...WOW, WOW, WOW! Not sure I could ever put into words how scared and overwhelmed I was at that moment thank goodness I was on autopilot and just covered it up with love, love, love!

It has been three glorious years today...years filled with laughter, love and the occasional tears (from both of us). Kacey has grown and blossomed and frankly so have I who knew you could get so much done in one 24 hour period and still have FUN? She will tell anyone who ask that her full name is Kacey Susan Xiao Mei Thomas-Unicorn, like her name wasn't long enough to start with she has added this last part the doctor thought it was hilarious so I'm sure she will be using it for awhile now.

Speaking of doctors our big girl is now 35 pounds and 41 inches tall she is in the 40 percentile for American children. Not a bad recovery from 25% when she got home 3 years ago. She is in perfect health and has 20/20 vision which is wonderful to know. She loves pre-k and learns more and more everyday she is like a little sponge. My dad always says don't make a promise to her that you can't keep she doesn't forget ANYTHING ever she may lull you into a false sense of security but then she zaps you at the most inopportune moments.

I think my favorite thing about sweet Kacey is her sense of humor and how much she laughs she thinks that the world is one amusing place and that she needs to enjoy it every single solitary minute and I agree. Other favorites include her sweet face, that she loves to hold my hand and pretty much every other thing about her! Some attributes are a little tougher to handle she is one stubborn tough cookie and I have to be totally consistent in my rules or she will tug on my very last nerve...she is an A+ student in that. She is quite sure that she knows EVERYTHING and that I simply can't know more...I thought I had a few more years before that happened, oh well.

Thank you China for the wonderful gift of Lu Xiao Mei she has filled my life with such love and happiness that I will never be able to thank you enough. And thank you Kacey-Unicorn for being a wonderful daughter and friend I LOVE YOU all the way to the moon, back to our house, then to St. Louis and Jacksonville and home again and that is a very long way and a lot of loving:)

If you would like to take the full sentimental journey you can take a look at my web journal from the trip it brings tears to my eyes every single time www.angelfire.com/magic2/stork/JTTravels5.html

the trip of a lifetime!

The ability to accessorize...

2009-09-08T12:34:00.004-04:00

Have snacks will travel!

Kacey has the ability and is NOT afraid to use it. Pre-k should be giving out a best dressed award and I think she would be a shoe-in. She's got more flair in her pinky than I have in my entire body.

Annual China Girls Trip

2009-08-31T16:18:00.004-04:00

This year we visited BEAUTIFUL Sea Grove Beach, Florida (between Destin & Panama City) it was beautiful. The girls AND their moms had a wonderful time it is always amazing to see how the girls grow and bloom every year!!!

My 400th Post---WOW!

2009-08-17T15:22:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday Nana...we love you! Princess Week...I'm still missing photos from one day but I'll add them when I get them:)

I never really look at the info on blogger I'm always just in a hurry to get on and get my pictures or info up and posted. BUT, today I realized that this is my 400th post, wow that's a lot of words and pictures.

I guess it is about right on July 31st 2006 I saw Kacey's sweet face on my computer screeen and since that time I've actually had something interesting to talk about:):) For post #400 I leave you with princess week at school...to say that Kacey embraced this concept is quite an understatement! She would be happy if everyday was princess day and according to her teachers she had no problem on the monkey bars with her finery on you've got to love this girl I sure do.

Belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Nana who celebrated on August 7th!

Fun in PA

2009-08-04T08:46:00.004-04:00

A little history lession in Philadelphia A ride around the park with K

Diane and Jena enjoy a ride!

Fun with Art!

An armload of Anhui LOVE

We went to PA to visit Sesame Place, the Liberty Bell and the World's Largest Crayon with our dear friends from GA and the bonus of seeing our Anhui Sister Jena and her wonderful family. Here are a few pictures from the trip we had such fun!!!

The Diva Series....

2009-07-14T14:22:00.002-04:00

She's growing up before my vary eyes!

High Work Ethic!

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On a Sunday morning no less...the girl is focused!

more summer pictures...

2009-07-06T14:13:00.003-04:00

Here I am on the track at Daytona...Beef 'O' Brady's is sponsoring the #2 Miller Lite car. Very exciting.

Pitcure #2 Bob with the car at one of our restaurants the night before the race.

Pitcure #3 Just so you don't miss anything here is a cute picture of Peyton and Kacey at the beach when she and Danielle visited last week. Kacey is the sandy one:)

Picture #4 Bob and Kacey share some watermelon after our canoe trip down the Hillborough River...you are going to have to take my work for it there was NO WAY I was taking out my only camera in that tippy canoe.

A Few Random Pictures

2009-06-30T13:18:00.003-04:00

Hi all, summer has been busy, busy around here. I've got lots of other photos for you in the near future but until then here are a few. Kacey did not think twice about entering the hula hoop contest at the beach even though she had no idea how to hula hoop. After losing quickly she took a hoop and practiced until she had it right!!! What a girl...also a couple of her looking way too old for me along with one of me, her, Heather from my team at work and Rusty Wallace a little brush with fame:) Happy summer everyone.

Oh What Fun!

2009-06-02T16:47:00.004-04:00

Not a high level of skill but tons of TRY

With Sam and Adam after the big game of pool baseball.

Kacey had a very expensive seat for herself but my purse sat in it and she sat in our laps. She looks good in Cardinal RED

We headed to St. Louis for the Memorial Day weekend and took in a Cardinal's game, went to the lake to see Sam & Adam (and their mom and dad) and just generally had some BIG Fun. Here are a few pictures.

Mother's Day Weekend!

2009-05-12T14:00:00.005-04:00

Photo #1 Whatever this guy was saying to her was not amusing I get this look at least a couple times a day.

#2 Here we are at the family fun fest on Saturday. It was Kacey's first pony ride! She had been a rejector in the past but today she was READY!

#3 Note the purse in my hand, I realized that I was not going to get out of participating in this gig so I had to throw it on the ground and hang on:)

#4 Kacey is up on the bridge of the boat I waited for the horns to go off or the boat to start up but she was very good.

#5 I missed one of my favorite mom's yesterday so here you go. A picture of Carolyn and her brood on Mother's Day!

Here is hoping you all had a great weekend too!

Happy Mother's Day My Friends!

2009-05-08T08:41:00.006-04:00

Some of my favorite moms and their girls; Daphne & Emily, Cindy & Amelia

Nana & Kacey
Me and the pumkin head sweetie pie!

As I get ready to celebrate my 3rd Mother's Day I didn't want to forget to wish all my bloggy buddies, my Mom and my Aunt Beckie (avid readers) a very happy day! I celebrate mother's day every single day with Kacey but it always feels extra special that second Sunday in May! I thought I'd give you guy my top ten reasons I love being a mom..here we go:

#10 I love being called "Kacey's Mom" at preschool, hi Kacey's Mom, look at my new dress Kacey's Mom. Some may not enjoy losing their identity I feel like a super hero with my new title!

#9 I get to color as much and anytime I want to and nobody looks at me funny in restaurants.

#8 I love children's books I've always been a very big reader and this gives me the chance to revisit some of my favs and make a few new ones. 5 Monkey's Go Shopping is a true classic LOL!

#7 Getting to spend lots of time outside I forgot what it was like to just hang out in the front yard in the late afternoon picking flowers (aka weeds) and looking at lizards really close up!

#6 At this late stage in my life I'm mastering the art of pony tails and proper hair dressing.

#5 The clothes (this can also be one of the most challenging things) I love the dresses and shorts and cute shirts and how beautiful olive skinned girls look in jewel tones. She takes my breath away many mornings:)

#4 The beach is a whole new experience for me...I didn't feel the sand on anything but my toes or do much swimming for the past many years and now I really don't even need to bring a beach chair a couple sandy towels will do just fine...oh and about 20 different buckets and shovels to make our masterpieces.

#3 Who knew you always needed to hold your mommy's hand even if you are just walking across the house. I love that feeling, it doesn't matter where we are going far or near she wants to hold hands!

#2 Watching Kacey make other people smile, my mom, my dad, my brothers, my friends, complete strangers this girl has a way about her...when she feels like that is when she doesn't you can feel the ice from 10 feet away!

#1 Having someone love me best! I have always felt very well loved but there is no greater feeling than knowing you are someone's absolute favorite person (most of the time) and that they love you unconditionally and always. Also the fact that when your are 4 you never forget to say it out loud many times a day for a cookie or a hug or just because. She always reminds me that you can't tell people enough how you feel.

Love you guys! Happy Mother's Day.

Happy Easter Bunnies!

2009-04-13T11:57:00.004-04:00

Easter is over and boy did we have fun. It started early and lasted until we watched Kacey's new movie before bed. We had Emily and her family to add to the fun and that was great. The girls hunted eggs, ate candy, ate dinner, ate more candy, ran around the house like banshees, ate more candy, swam, ate dessert. Do you see a pattern here. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season no matter how you celebrate!

Been Cruisin' & Loved It!

2009-03-31T14:42:00.003-04:00

The stairs were like a magnet she glided up and down them every time we walked by!

With Mom at Dinner and Nana at lunch!

Kacey, Nana Susan and I just returned from a cruise to Mexico. We had a blast although the weather was less than cooperative on our days at sea:( Kacey loved the dining room and getting to wear pretty dresses every night she took the 9-12 foot seas like a champ and acted like she'd been doing this for her entire life. We had fun too.

GOTCHA!

2009-03-30T12:39:00.002-04:00

Snacks are the ultimate equalizer!

Seems like we've been waiting 5 years for this day but now it is here and we welcome young Kevin to our bevy of girls. As they said in the movie Top Gun "it will be a target rich environment" when this guy starts dating!! He's so darned cute they'll be lining up.

Welcome to the Anhui Club...we can't wait to meet you.

Emily & Family Come to Visit!

2009-03-24T08:54:00.002-04:00

The girls and Nana had a wonderful time!

We are so excited to have Emily and family close by! The girls picked up like they had seen each other yesterday children are amazing!!! Here a few pictures that D took of the fun time I had to poach them off her blog since I didn't take a single one.

in the mood for a GREAT gotcha trip...try this!

2009-03-23T16:38:00.004-04:00

My dear travel mates Duane & Shelley are heading back to China tomorrow to be united with their beautiful son Kevin (look at those cheeks just waiting to be kissed and pinched). They leave tomorrow and trust me traveling with these guys is FUN even if you have to do so electronically. We know that sweet Claire and Hannah will miss mom and dad tons but they are so excited to get a new brother that the time will fly...right girls?

Take a peak at http://finishingourfamilyfromchina.blogspot.com/ and join the fun.

Duane, Shelley may your trip be smooth and quick. We will be with you every step of the way and can't wait to meet the newest addition to the family:) Love, Julie & Kacey (Nana too)

The Earrings!

2009-02-23T08:48:00.003-05:00

A smooch for the support during the earring appointment.

Little Miss Hard to Get

Celebrating the earrings and looking good.

Kacey has had earrings from her (and my) dear friend Augusta that were purchased in Peru since before she got home from China and she opens the drawer and oohs and ahhs over them 2-3 times a week. Things were so crazy when we got home I just didn't get her ears pierced then by the time I was ready Kacey was NOT going for it. Last week as she looked longingly at the earrings she announced "I am ready to get holes in my ears and wear these earrings!" Well I explaned that she would have to wear special earring for the first weeks but when that was over she could put the well loved earrings on. Bob was in town for the weekend so I thought great I have a sucker (errr friend) to help me out let's do it today. Now unlike my dear buddy Lori http://www.stressisthenewblack.blogspot.com/ I did not get pictures of the actual event. Why you may ask...well Bob was holding Kacey in his lap and I was in the hallway feeling like I was going to faint. Kacey came through like a champ and I was colorless for some time! It is the same feeling I had when she had to get a broken tooth fixed at the dentist...they say watching your children get things done is much worse that doing it yourself I wasn't sure I believed that until now:)

Kacey Meets the Clydesdales!

2009-01-30T14:40:00.004-05:00

It is Super Bowl week in Tampa and everybody is here including the beautiful Budweiser Clydesdales. They visited our local Beef 'O' Brady's last night and I took Kacey with me to the event. At first she wasn't too sure about the big guy but after she saw roses in his hair she was smitten.

The Pirates Have Invaded...

2009-01-28T16:05:00.003-05:00

Luckily we were able to enjoy the festivities and make it home in one piece. Kacey loves a good parade especially with noisy horns and beads included.

Wishing you a wonderful Year of the Ox!

2009-01-28T15:59:00.003-05:00

The lady in red, at first Kacey wanted no part of this dress but then magically decided she was never taking it off:)

We had a great time with our Florida Great Wall family in Orlando and are going to celebrate again in Tampa this coming Saturday. Let's see how long we can keep this wonderful holiday season going:)

Wintery Weather Travel!

2009-01-13T09:00:00.004-05:00

Dessert with Jack and Riley
Spending time with Bobby before he headed back to college.

Kacey's Guys!

Sharing secrets with "gramma phyllis" and showing her stuff.

Kacey and I had the pleasure of traveling to St. Louis this past weekend to see all of our great friends and BOY was it COLD! Even Kacey did not protest putting on her coat:) She got to see snow flurries but was in no hurry to get out there since there "wasn't enough for a snowman" she knows that from her cartoons!

She played hard with Jack and Riley (and the Bobs) and was totally exhausted on the trip home I think that she is still recovering today I know that I am.

Wishing you all winter wonderlands.

Look for pictures from our Great Wall Florida Chinese New Year Celebration next week we can't wait!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-05T13:43:00.003-05:00

Just another day in paradise for these Florida Girls!

My guitar heros!

Here is Kacey modeling my mom's wedding tiara complete with department store bow. She thinks she is all that and a bag of donuts!

Checking out her loot!

Here's hoping you all had a wonderful holiday season. We certainly did, here are a few pictures of the festivities! Kacey just kept saying "this is my best Christmas EVER", I hope she says that for many, many years to come:)

Merry Christmas...

2008-12-22T15:45:00.005-05:00

Posing with my prized Christmas cactus my Ganny had them (big ones) every year that I can remember and I've had them most of my adult life. Sometimes they bloom and a few times not! The crazy thing is that she died in June (many years ago) and almost every year I get a bloom or two during that time. It always makes me feel good and watched over.

The holiday build a bear not as easy as it looks right Aunt Carolyn!!!

Kacey ALMOST with Santa we are making progress...

The little beauties...

and a Happy New Year! Kacey adds this in each time I wish someone a Merry Christmas--very cute! She also sings Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer with feeling and ends it with a rousing chorus of "you'll go down in MISERY" there's no way to change her mind she likes it like that.

We've had a wonderful year and I wanted to send BLOGGY greetings to all my friends out there. My Christmas cards didn't get mailed until Friday and Saturday so you all may be the only people that get a greeting before the big day.

I wish you all peace and happiness in the upcoming year. For those of you still waiting keep your chins up and know that the reward will outway the pain by a longshot!

Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night...

Forgive Me Fashion Gods...

2008-12-19T15:27:00.003-05:00

Check out these shoes for the 18th of December! I fashion faux pau of major proportion but boy did Kacey think she looked snappy. If she's happy I'm happy...Kacey says "mommy don't I look good" I say "yes sweetie you do look GOOD". Look at that face and tell me that you would have given her the "white is never right after Labor Day" speech, told yah!!!

Oh how I love this girl!

So Much to be Thankful for!

2008-12-04T12:48:00.004-05:00

no rest for uncle jim...i'll just sit right here until you are ready to play!
Or I can hang out and talk about my day with Nana.

Or maybe check out the plant life
Maybe uncle KT will give me a ride on their scooter.

We have so much to be thankful for great food...great family! Kacey was asked what she wanted to be when she grew up...she thought about it for a moment then said "I want to be able to drive and reach the counter" you've got to love a girl with goals!

A few things (people) I am thankful for!

2008-11-26T13:50:00.003-05:00

It's the time of year to formally give thanks (rather than just in your prayers at night) and I was with some of the people that I am MOST thankful for this weekend. They have been dear and faithful friends for a decade (or more) and when I count my blessings I always say their names! They shared their children with me before Kacey and now provide wonderful playmates for my sweet girl and for that I am most grateful:)

Have a very happy thanksgiving and don't forget to give thanks!

Crazy Kids!

2008-11-18T14:37:00.002-05:00

Our good friends were headed out on a cruise on Sunday and stopped by for a ride to the port and a nice visit (with more to come when they return). Kacey and the boys (10 year old twins) made the very best of their couple hours of play on a beautiful day by racing around the cul-de-sac in the wagon with another brother in hot pursuit. To say Kacey was thrilled with the ride is an understatement...can't imagine what they will get into with 2 days together:)

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-03T12:45:00.003-05:00

Come on more just one more piece it's small!

Heading out with Capt. America and his "goulish" big sister.

Craving fun complete with paints.

Never miss the chance to throw in a ballet move or two.

Happy Birthday Hannah & Cody!

2008-10-29T08:47:00.003-04:00

Kacey just happens by the babies' smash cake for a little taste! Hannah wasn't sharing too much with her though she is digging in!

It took Cody a couple minutes to understand just how good it was but he sure got the hang of it.

Our little miracles were 1 year old this weekend. They were born at 32 weeks and stayed in the hospital for weeks to come. Sweet Hannah had to have a pacemaker installed before she could escape the hospital. Well you would never know it now they were scarfing cake and Cody was toddling about the patio and that's when they weren't in the bouncehouse with their mommy!

Happy birthday sweetie pies!!!

Birthday Season!

2008-10-20T10:56:00.005-04:00

Jumping in the foam pit - yes those are SHORTS she didn't want to show her panties!!!
Swinging on the rings
BIG finish and Ballet arms with the group!

If there is a season for birthdays this must be it! Last weekend we celebrated with Breanna at the local YMCA and this weekend we have a costume party with Bailey & Cody & Hannah's 1st birthday! Wow excitment plus!!!!!

Flying on her Big Wheel!

2008-10-16T09:20:00.001-04:00

Give the girl some wheels and watch her GOOOOOO!

4 years old...

2008-10-14T09:44:00.005-04:00

The birthday girl, not a great idea to try and take photos early in the morning! She had just dried her tears from a shoes and socks FIT but letting out a good birthday roar did her a world of good.

Kacey is 4 years old today! Wow how time has flown by it seems like just yesterday that we were celebrating her 2nd birthday the month after we got back from China and now she is 4. It's funny Kacey always says she wishes she was a tiny baby again like she was in China when we are around infants. I guess even at this young age she realizes that we missed time together but then I ask her if she likes being a big girl and she immediately says YES. She still changes everyday and is becoming such a grown-up girl she is counting to 30 (she unveiled that skill last night out of the blue) and this week she started reading in school she has "sight words" to practice and loves doing her homework. Sharing is still not one of her favorite things but she is getting a little better I think:) She is 39.5" tall and weighs 33.5lbs she can't quite wear the 4t's yet but she is about ready she can wear the shirts but not the pants or dresses!

She is still one of the most stubborn people I've ever met and everything is a negotiation. Here's how it goes...Me: Kacey lets do this (whatever it may be) Kacey: Mom, how about we do this way...that's a good plan right? Cracks me up every single time!

Also there are the clothes and shoes. My friends..the girl will wear NOTHING but dresses and loafers (or flip flops at home) no shorts, no skirts, no sneakers, NADA. She has an entire dresser full of summer clothes that were never even touched. I tried fighting for a couple of weeks but every morning one of us cried and it just wasn't worth it over a pair of shorts. We are already preparing for winter and I've told her (almost every day) that she will have to wear pants and sleeves when it gets chilly and she say OK but that means nothing until the negotiation really starts!!!

All that small stuff aside she is the light of my life she makes every single day exciting and fun and when she gives me kisses and hugs everything else just seems silly and unimportant. My entire life has changed for the better and I owe it to her, people still say how great it is that I "saved her" but I am a firm believer and have been since day one that she "saved me" and continues to save me from being way to uptight and serious!!!!

I love you Kacey happy 4th birthday my little princess!

Birthday Palooza!

2008-10-13T10:49:00.003-04:00

Kacey & Cousin Austin Bouncing it UP!
Kacey and Brianna enjoy Chuck E

Bailey enjoys the party too! Asia, Kacey & Bri waiting for CAKE.
Kacey figures out checkers and beats me her very first game...princess checkers of course!

We haven't even reached the official "big day" and 2 parties have been enjoyed. We had all the pre-school friends at Chuck E Cheese at 10AM on Saturday (a very calm time at the Chuck) then had the family and neighborhood buddies over to the house in the afternoon for a bounce in the Castle Bouncehouse followed by a very necessary swim (it was HOT). Of course all the parties were princess themed and Kacey was decked out in dresses for each occaision taking a break only to wear her swimsuit in the pool. I'm trying to explan that she can't wear sundresses as winter but we wake up to 75 degrees everyday so I'm having a very tough time of it:(

Kacey had a blast at her parties and was so darned excited it was infectious. I took 1/2 day off on Friday to get the house ready and decorate with no "help" from my little helper. I didn't really think anything of it but when Kacey came home that night she thought that the Princesses had come to her house to get it ready for the party I was amazed. She was so honored that they would come over from their castle to get ready for her party she looked in every room to see if they were still there! I then had to explain that they had to hurry back to "work dinner" at the castle and that made her very happy. She left a flower on the table for them in case they came back which I promptly forgot to remove after she went to sleep which caused a little drama in the AM. I'm going to have to set a double tooth fairy alarm when we get to that point!!!

Enjoy the photos it was a wonderful time we enjoyed all our visitors and missed everyone who wasn't with us.

Sweetness LOVES Halloween

2008-10-08T16:03:00.005-04:00

Kacey's friend Asia had a party at Pump It Up she was NOT fond of the big slides but loves the jumping!

The first party was dress-up so she decided to be Snow White Ballerina! You have to LOVE that sweet face:)

Magic shows are GREAT she was the first with her hand up to be an "assistant"!

And she loves birthday parties and magic shows. You can't say she isn't enthusiastic about every single day!!! Last Saturday we had 2 birthday parties and Disney on Ice I was a trainwreck but Kacey pushed through like a champ.

It's birthday weekend so looks for lots of fun photos from the big event(s) next week.

A few more pictures from Disney...

2008-09-30T11:58:00.003-04:00

The big sisters Hannah & Stefanie hanging with Cinerdella.
Ellie meets the girls...what a little doll she is!!!!! Next the gang is heading for the castle.

Kacey with Princess Aurora one time for real one time via statue:)

What a good time we had!

What a Difference 2 Years Makes!

2008-09-25T16:20:00.003-04:00

Jena, Kacey, Zoe, Molly, Claire
Jena, Kacey, Claire

Two years makes a HUGE difference but some things remain the same:

We adore our girls

We love traveling together

We still can't get the girls to smile in the same picture even if it is only 5 of the 10 and it's a lawn chair instead of a red couch!

What a wonderful time we had celebrating our 2 year gotcha day anniversary at Walt Disney World. The joy at seeing the girls together happy, healthy and beautiful was just overwhelming. It kind of felt like China I was weepy the entire 3 days. I don't think that there could have been a better place and better group to spend our anniversary with. While we have kept up by BLOG and email since returning there is nothing better than actually being able to kiss all those sweet cheeks and listen to their wonderful voices celebrating the joys of the happiest place on earth! The bonus of having their sisters, brothers and grandparents was just the icing on the cake.

3 of us spent the entire weekend together and were joined by the "big family" for a wonderful pool party on Saturday night. What a sight all our beautiful black heads were in the pool we were like magnets 2 more families with children from China stopped by for crackers and cheese as they happened by and were so happy to meet everyone.

Our other 5 families were certainly missed but we know that they were celebrating wherever they were. A beautiful photo of sweet Ava was in the mailbox when we returned home and will be a great addition to the photo album.

They say the more things change the more they stay the same I'm not so sure about that. Our changes were huge 2 years ago and our lives were so very blessed and enriched by our girls that we will never be the same.

Thank you Kacey, Jena, Claire, Zoe & Molly (and those at home) for brightening not only our weekend but our entire lives by your addition to our families. We love you all.

More pictures on the way...

Weekend in Boca

2008-09-17T14:24:00.003-04:00

Nana Susan, Sue & Marlene
Next photo features the entire gang (minus Bob who was taking the photo) including our sweet newlywed Crystal holding Kacey!

Sue & I have been friends since we were 13 years old which may explain why we showed up in matching outfits :)

We had a wonderful but busy weekend in Boca we got to see Bobby play in two soccer games vs. Lynn University and visit with our friends Sue, Marlene, Crystal and Conner. It is always great to catch up.

We are off to Disney this weekend for a reunion of our China Travel Group 5 of the 9 families will be there sometime during the weekend. Can't wait!

Here are a few pictures from last weekend's trip...

More photos...the Columbia and Kacey

2008-09-03T08:26:00.002-04:00

l to r Gracie, Emerson, Hunter & Kacey

What's up with that head tilt?

I Got A New Camera...

2008-09-03T08:16:00.003-04:00

So of course I had to try it out on my favorite model. The conversation goes like this Kacey I would like to take some pictures of you with my new camera Kacey says; "ok mom let me get my tiara and I'll be ready". There may be something very wrong with that but I'm just going to let it go for now I did draw the line at wearing it to the store after our photo shoot. I'm going to have to use a couple different post since I couldn't figure out how to adjust my photos down from GINORMOUS I've finally beat that one!

Also I took a photo of the kids at the Columbia restaurant we went with Emme, Grace & Hunter to eat DELICIOUS Spanish food and see the Flaminco Dancers! Kacey raised her hand when they asked for volunteers and headed to the stage to dance at the end of the show she just marched up (well half way there she wanted me to follow her) and walked up the stairs to dance. She thought the male dancer was a prince so it was very appealing to her. She twirled and danced then made a lovely exit. My mom asked if I took pictures and of course I was so shocked that I didn't even have time to think much less grab my camera. Kacey didn't even have her shoes on she had kicked them off under the table during dinner! What a moment. The photos will be on the next post.

Borrowed from Diane's BLOG

2008-08-20T11:01:00.002-04:00

I borrowed a couple more pictures from Diane. No Kacey is not that much shorter than Jena she is standing and Jena is on the stool. The next picture shows them NOT resting:)

New Jersey or BUST!

2008-08-20T10:43:00.003-04:00

Kacey, Kaley & Avery. Then with Baby Colin on the couch.

Diane, Kacey & Jena on the tractor heading out to pick blueberries and Jena hamming for the camera.
Stefanie looking lovely

Kacey and I were off to New Jersey this past weekend to visit a few of our favorite people. We saw Diane and her terrific girls Jena & Stefanie. Jena and Kacey were at the same SWI and we traveled together 2 years ago to meet our wonderful girls. It was fantastic to see them and spend some time together before our Disney reunion it is amazing how quickly children make friends it was like they had know each other their entire lives!

Next we headed to the Jersey shore to see Sharon, Kaley, Avery & Baby Colin who are in from Hong Kong. We miss them so much so it was great to see them and meet Colin for the first time. The girls were a riot together and made quite a splash at the boardwalk in their matching dresses:)

I have camera problems so these were taken on my phone. I bought a disposable when I was there and I'm having CVS make me a disk so hopefully I'll be able to post some higher quality photos tomorrow.

Sometimes the world is so small and other times you wish it was smaller so you could see the people you love all the time!

A Post for Marie & Joe-Revised!

2008-08-06T09:55:00.004-04:00

Shelley caught my date boo boo sorry I was ready to go and put the dates in wrong!!!

Hi guys,

I can't reply to your comment on BLOGGER regarding our trip to Orlando. If you would send me your email address I'll get you fully up to date my email is jthomas4760@yahoo.com

We will be at Disney from September 18-21. We are planning a happy hour pool party at the hotel on Saturday in the hopes that the Florida families can come and celebrate with us. We'll provide lots of treats to eat and drink. We would love to see you, Joe and all the kids (& grandkids) feel free to join us anytime!

Julie, Diane, Shelley & families

The Day the World Changed

2008-07-16T14:07:00.007-04:00

October 2005-August 2006-July 2008

2 years ago today the world changed. Not for everyone but certainly for me...after a long wait I became a mother via email. A 45 year old mother of a 20 month old! How's that for life changing? Come to find out it was the start of the greatest days of my life. First a trip to China with a group of fantastic people then "gotcha day" which is when the real fun started. I finally got to meet Lu Xiao Mei in all of her glory, she was scared and beautiful I was scared and sweaty we were a match made in heaven. How I loved that child from the first moment I saw her face on my computer screen and how I love her more every single day even during those brief moments that I don't like her very much.

Who could have guessed that a picture on computer screen could change the world! Not me beforehand but now I am a believer. The matching room was right on and they placed me with the perfect child. She is smart, strong, spunky, funny and a big pain in the rear on occaision. I have no idea what cosmic dust those folks spread around that ugly government office but I think it must be pixie dust that allows them to get into the minds and souls of people a world away, people that they will never meet. I could not have asked for anything more from them but I got it Kacey loves me as much as I love her. My favorite Kacey line of the week my folks had friends in town that she adores my mom was getting ready to bring her home after I got home from work and she said to my mom's friends, "I'm going to miss you but I've got to go see my mommy"! She was out the door and in the car on her way to see her mommy and her mommy was glad to see her too.

Just how to show how much Kacey has changed these past two years I went back and checked her stats from her first doctor's appointment in October 2006 (not quite 2 years ago) she was 22.4 lbs and in the 5th percentile and 32.75" tall in the 25th percentile. On July 21 she weighed in at 33 lbs. +10.6 and was 38.5" tall +almost 4 inches. Wow it's amazing what love and a healthy diet will do for a girl. I'm not even going to discuss the weight I've gained without getting ANY taller:)

A last note to any waiting parents who may stop by I know that wait is long right now but do not give up please do not give up. These children need you and more than that you need them. Whether it is your 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th child the addition to your family will be priceless you will thank your lucky stars and God every single day. I know my wait was short in comparision but please take my word for the fact that if China was still open to singles I'd be right back in line with you waiting my turn and I would keep going back until there were no children sitting in orphanages waiting to be loved! I'd do it again (and again) in a minute I'd wait as long as it took and longer if asked. Hang in there I hope and pray that after the Olympics are complete things will speed up for all of you. Can't wait to see your referal pictures!

Thank you Kacey Susan Xiao Mei for changing my world and making me a better person I owe you a Dove Bar (or 2). In advance thanks to all those waiting parents for hanging in there, your fellow familes are with you in spirit!

Love,

Julie

47 year old mother of a 3 year old!

Fashion Statements...

2008-07-15T11:32:00.004-04:00

Three little beauties!

We had a great time swimming and eating pizza with our friends this weekend. The girls got into the new birthday make-up and boy were they pretty...they then marched out onto the patio and had a fashion show. WOW who taught them to walk like that those skinny models better watch out they have some serious competition!

Such sweet girls such BAD make-up Grace showed quite a bit of restraint Emme and Kacey were full on!

Another Birthday Another 4th of July

2008-07-07T14:56:00.003-04:00

Trevor, Kacey & Annie Hamming it Up!
Diva in a box from Terri, Syd & Alexis
Me, Kacey, Carolyn & Annie taking a break
Kacey gets a fishing lesson from Bob you couldn't pry the pole away from her!
Kacey & Alexis after bath attire.

Summer is in full swing around our house. We just survived another birthday (me) and 4th of July weekend. Let me just tell you guys that I think 3 day weekends are highly under rated I even took an additional vacation day Thursday to make it 4. Life is good!!!!

Here are few pictures...we had tons of fun at the Dixon's on Friday then again at our house with Terri, Syd , Alexis & Nana (Pop had a bug) at our house on Saturday. Having Bob for the entire weekend was an added bonus he and Kacey had some excellent fishing time:)

Stay cool!

Sunday Morning...

2008-07-01T16:01:00.002-04:00

Just in case you every wondered what Kacey and I do on Sunday mornings here are a few photos. Let me set this up for you...I said come on Kacey let's get dressed and head out to the yard to pull weeds. She said OK I'll pick out something to wear and viola out she came in her pink fairy dress complete with tiara. She was the best looking lawn person in Tampa that Sunday.

The last for today...

2008-06-13T11:26:00.002-04:00

The island princess, it's 1 week later and the necklace is still a permanent fixture.
Happy Birthday CINDY with Jimmy & Amelia
Kacey not in the mood the rest of us happy to be there:)

More Pictures from Vacation...

2008-06-13T09:12:00.002-04:00

Hugh, Sonia & Kailee enjoy a beautiful day
The poser hamming it up for Nana
Cindy, Amelia & Kacey say cheese.

Sun, Fun & Friends!

2008-06-13T08:48:00.003-04:00

And we are off complete with snacks and earphones!
Tired girls and moms on the way to siesta.
Don't you know we caused a scene everywhere we went!

What a lovely 5 days we spent with our friends in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The weather was devine and the company even better. The girls had a fantastic time together and we grown-up got to catch up on the events of the past months.

Vacation is highly under rated I think we should do that 50 weeks a year and work for 2:)

Here are a few pictures of the fun.

Kacey goes to work...

2008-06-04T14:34:00.005-04:00

What a sunset we had one this beautiful the next night too!

Kacey attended my company's recent conference. We had a ball! Check out that tan and that's with slathering her with SPF50 every 1/2 hour!!!

Here I Am in THE HAT!

2008-05-21T12:20:00.001-04:00

I got to wear it too plus a pink one that Kacey hasn't even got ahold of yet...what a great weekend.

A few of my favorite pictures...

2008-05-21T11:48:00.003-04:00

Here are a few new pictures. I went to the Kentucky Derby a couple weeks ago...Kacey looks GREAT in my hat! She also like to pose in her 2-piece swimsuit that she thinks is quite fine:) Finally Nana & Pop took her to the Zoo Sunday while I was in Chicago for a meeting. Looks like a good time was had by all.

End of the School Year & Mother's Day!

2008-05-16T14:23:00.004-04:00

Hanging with Jenny

A snuggle for Mommy on her day posing with the Gueberts.

A hug for my favorite teacher Ms. Wanda.

Diversity at its' finest Kacey and her buddies.

Long time no post! I'll make up for it in pictures. Here are a few from the end of the year school party at Chuckie Cheese no I wasn't happy to be there yes Kacey was...she wins:)

We also had a great time on Mother's Day with a visit from one of my best buddies from St. Louis (now in Boston) and her family. What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday.

Hope all is well with you and yours get ready for a long hot summer...

A Natural(ized) Girl!

2008-04-03T15:55:00.004-04:00

Here's Kacey at dinner after our court date with her friends Gracie & Emerson!

Here we are with the Honorable Judge Fernandez, L-R my brother Kevin, me, Kacey, Nana & Pop Pop. We missed you Jim!

Yesterday was Kacey's readoption hearing in Florida. She is now a naturalized citizen complete with a Florida birth certificate and I was reminded (under oath) that she is now considered my biological child and eligible to all inheritance I see fit. I was also reminded that I had total responsibility for her welfare until 18 and then the judge threw in the fact that I had a morale obligation for the rest of her life. Yikes!

Kacey was unimpressed except for the fact that she received a really cool tye died stuffed puppy from the judge and got to wear pantyhose which is a big treat. After the hearing we had a few friends join us at a favorite Chinese restaurant where we all ate too much and enjoyed each others company.

All in all a very good day!

If anyone lives in Florida and needs a terrific adoption attorney (he's a China dad with #1 at home and a Aug 2007 log in for #2) just let me know and I'll pass on the information. He is very reasonable and an absolute pleasure to work with.

1st Nightgown!

2008-04-01T11:39:00.002-04:00

I'm the first to admit that we are a pajama family. Nightgowns just make your legs cold especially when you refuse to keep any kind of covers on...Kacey Thomas!

Well we were shopping this weekend and saw this darling nightie on sale--for both Kacey & I it was love at first sight!

Needless to say she was "frozen" before she even lay down and we had to put on socks & leggings under all that finery but she was proud and happy and that's really all that matters! And cute, did I mention so very cute:)

I never want to forget this moment!

2008-03-27T14:32:00.002-04:00

No pictures with this post but I'm writing it down so I never forget.

Last night we came home from school late and I made Kacey's dinner. I wasn't hungry so I said she could eat at the coffee table and watch Barney. Well I went back into the kitchen to get something to drink after delivering her dinner and what do I hear from the family room...I hear that dear girl saying the dinner prayer all by herself before she started eating.

No kidding I didn't say a word, she couldn't even see where I was she just said the prayer then shoved chicken into her mouth. I just stood in the kitchen while she finished up then went in and gave her a big hug. Not sure she even knew what the hug was for but I certainly did!

For Bev...

2008-03-17T09:02:00.003-04:00

Cinderella is the ALL-TIME favorite!
No idea what she was telling her but it must have been important.
With Kacey you always know where you stand she was DONE.

Here are a few photos of the princess with the princesses...she NO like Santa but Disney Princesses are a totally different deal!

Random Photos Part 3

2008-02-20T16:29:00.003-05:00

Pretty as a picture!
Check out those eyes, Miss Hannah is going to be quite the looker!
Showing the love!
Seriously could I look any more tired, I think I'll take a couple naps this weekend!

Making up for lost time the final installment of random photos!

Random Photos Part 2!

2008-02-20T15:58:00.003-05:00

Makeover time with Alexis
New Babies...old Towel!
New friends!

Random Photos Part 1!

2008-02-20T15:48:00.004-05:00

Hanging with her babies on the porch!
Celebrating Uncle John's 60th Birthday!
Happy Year of the Rat!

These are for you Tammie and all the others who have commented on my lax entries :)

With love from the absent BLOGGER!

Happy Year of the Rat!

2008-02-07T13:58:00.000-05:00

I'd like to thank my brothers Jim & Kevin for teaching Kacey this lovely face to make for pictures!

We had a wonderful visit from Danielle, Brooke & Peyton which called for a trip to the beach for dinner! It was a little breezy but still tons of fun!

Kacey is quite the budding artist, she loves to CREATE on her easel

Here she is swinging with Nana, a favorite past time!

Year of the Rat, yuck! My mom calls it the year of the mouse but we don't let her get away with that.

We've got big plans to celebrate this weekend with friends from my office who are very happy to include Kacey in their dim sum brunch (we'll see afterwards if they are still happy) and the BIG celebration next Sunday with all the local Florida adopters and their kiddos. Can't wait to meet Ethan for the 1st time and see many friends we have missed:)

Here are few photos to keep you up to date, as always Nana has the best photos on her camera and I just haven't had 10 minutes to download them she says she'll get me a disk so I can put them up!

Happy Holidays from Us to You!

2007-12-20T13:40:00.001-05:00

A full dose of Christmas Attitude!
A little fun with mom, bummed that there was nothing in the box!

Wishing everyone the happiest of holiday seasons and a joyous new year! 2007 has been quite an eventful year, I wouldn't have a problem with 2008 coming in a little calmer but it needs to be just as filled with joy as the one just passed.

Christmas Program, All Together Now....AHHHHHH!

2007-12-20T13:23:00.000-05:00

She does stand out doesn't she!

Here she is, enjoying her post performance burger at Five Guys, we know how to live:)

This is Kacey's teachers, Mrs. Wanda and Mrs. Jennifer who is from Taiwan and has an extra special place in her heart for my little one.

Do you have to guess what she is thinking in this picture? I believe that she is DONE with me and my camera!!

Kacey's Christmas program at school was Friday night and it was so darned sweet I almost couldn't stand it. Her group of 2 & 3 year olds said their bible verse loud and proud and sang a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday Jesus, she certainly understands the reason for the season:)

After the Thanksgiving program Diane asked for I cried and well I didn't but I don't know if it was the holiday music or Kacey waving at us from the stage but I was all teary eyed during this one. Or, maybe it's because she's come such a long way from last Christmas and I'm so very proud and blessed...yep I think that must be it!!!

Preview of holiday greetings to come!

2007-12-06T13:08:00.001-05:00

I got Kacey's Christmas pictures done on Sunday...always a good time! But she was a trooper this year and we got tons of good ones. Just as a teaser here she is before we headed off to the studio!

Happy Thanksgiving...is it Christmas Already?

2007-12-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

Wow I realized I didn't even post from Thanksgiving and it's almost Christmas...oh well I'll blame it on the holdiays:)

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving in Jacksonville with my brothers, mom and dad the food was great and the company even better. Kacey just loves being with everyone and it takes a week to "re-adjust" her to everyday life!!!

The only thing I missed was my early Friday morning shopping trip. There just wasn't anything worth getting up for, of course all day I wondered what I missed!

Not Broadway but the Wiggles!

2007-11-19T15:20:00.001-05:00

Big weekend, Kacey her cousin Brett and his mommy went to see the Wiggles on Saturday. Diane, I know that Stefanie would be so proud! We got to sit in the luxury box so I maintained what's left of my sanity:)

Giving Thanks!

2007-11-19T15:16:00.000-05:00

Kacey was in the Thanksgiving program at school last week. It was wonderful and she sang her little heart out after a bit of rough start.

What's next...Broadway!

Fall Fun!

2007-11-12T11:11:00.001-05:00

She's certainly serious about her work!
Power tools, no problem I can handle it!
Up to her neck in leaves...what a mess!
She serious about her fun too!

Kacey and I had a blast in St. Louis last weekend. She got a taste of falling leaves and we got to celebrate milestone birthdays with Marilyn & Theresa who were 40 and 21 respectively! I think K may have a future in lawn care you should have seen her moving those leaves:)

Double Blessings!

2007-11-07T14:23:00.000-05:00

Hannah was not happy with all the attention and shows us with that little pout, she weighed 4lbs. 3 oz at birth!
Nothing bothers this little guy, he was the little one weighing only 3lb 14oz but he's growing like a weed and should be home soon.

Kacey and I would like to welcome her new cousins to the family. Hannah & Cody were born on October 26, about 6 weeks early so they are still in the hospital. Their mommy and daddy are thrilled and we are all wishing that they were already home!

We love you little pumpkins!

Trick Or Treat!

2007-11-01T13:35:00.000-04:00

I didn't take nearly enough photos of the big event but my cheerleader had a wonderful time. She hung in there for two long blocks and collected a HUGE amount of candy which is soon to disappear from our house! Here she is with her cousins, Brett (Buzz) and Bradley (the Gangsta).

Enjoy!

Waiting for the Great Pumpkin 2

2007-10-31T08:50:00.000-04:00

WOW, there are seeds inside this pumpkin...a bonus!
This really is a GREAT pumpkin!
I love my friendly ghost!
I need to help mommy along with this procees I think.
Victory Snuggle!

Well we left Target and got home to find that the Great Pumpkin was right on our own doorstep. Nana & Pop cleaned it out and Mommy did a little hack job on it next thing you know, our Great Pumpkin is here...

Waiting for the Great Pumpkin 1

2007-10-31T08:45:00.000-04:00

Is he here yet?
It can't be much longer...right?
I'm going home to wait, I think that Target is closing.

Kacey, along with Charlie Brown has been waiting for the Great Pumpkin's arrival. She waited for some time in Target but no luck?????

5 Moms + 5 Little Girls = Tons of Fun

2007-10-26T11:09:00.000-04:00

My adoption buddies from GA came to visit last weekend and boy did we have a great time. We were all nervous about 5 little girls in one house with one set of toys for 3 days but our fears were for naught, the girls played great together and their mommies had a blast!

We are already planning for next year:)