The Adventures of DJ Beach

Disney 2011

2011-10-20T17:09:00.006-04:00

Here are some pics to make you all happy! The Tigger one did not come out good!

Forever Family Day!

2011-07-19T23:12:00.006-04:00

Five years! Has it really been 5 whole years? My fuzzy haired little peanut is now 6 years old. Remember how we waited, it seemed to take forever to see her face for the first time and now 5 years have passed. We have done so many things together. Just this year alone, I feel "Belt Brett" has grown so much! Five years ago she weighed 16 and 3/4 pounds and today she is a strapping 43! Her personality is so quirky and I hope she keeps it that way. Over the past year we have had to call her a variety of names, Rainbow,DJ Beach, Sailboat, Pirateship Ship, Chicken Tenders, Rooney and now Belt Brett. Where does she come up with this stuff? She played softball this year, and wants to play again next year. She still loves hats, all kinds and now loves belts. The past five years have been awesome and sometimes scary at the same time. I love Shealin with all my heart and hope our next five years are just as awesome or even better as we continue to grow as individuals and as a family. Tonight, we will have a special dinner, Shea wants "logs" and then we will watch our China video and have ice cream. To her birth mom, may you have peace today and know in your heart that she is happy, healthy and just downright awesome. Thank you, for bringing her into the world and giving me the greatest of gifts. Belt, I love you! Happy Forever Family Day!
Friends, take a trip back and watch our journey the links are on the right!

THAT WAS THEN

THIS IS NOW

Disney Pictures

2010-12-15T16:21:00.002-05:00

Here are her official Princess Makeover pictures. She really did enjoy having Belle hair and I would do it again if she asked. I love seeing the smile on her face. In the video she says, "I'm beautiful" and she is even without a makeover.

More Disney Pictures

2010-12-12T11:34:00.002-05:00

Just thought I would share that our new name is currently "DJ Water".

Disney 2010

2010-12-12T11:28:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I guess you have been wondering just what happened to the pictures I promised from Disney. Well, the hotel we stayed in did not have wireless and only one broadband hookup. So, I decided to wait until we got home to post the pics. Enjoy, we did. These are from makeover day, she loved her "Belle" hair, and while it was pricey, I would do it again!

Dusting off and Sprucing Up!

2010-12-01T19:13:00.004-05:00

I am sure many of you thought we had just simply disappered. I simply was at a loss for a while on what to say and how to say it. So here I am changing things around and giving a new name and look to an old familiar place. I needed to basically kick myself in the butt and start thinking, really thinking why I stopped posting and when I figured it out, I didn't like myself very much. I am slowly coming to terms about some things and now that I have am ready to continue on this the many adventures of Shealin. So welcome back and settle in and get ready for some awesome new videos and pictures tidbits or our adventures.

More Pictures

2010-01-21T17:54:00.002-05:00

Random Pictures for Someone Who Shall Remain Nameless!

2010-01-21T17:50:00.001-05:00

Disney 2009

2009-12-09T21:56:00.002-05:00

Hollywood Studios today! We had fun and Shealin got to see Woody and he let her touch his hat! Lea had the Smores, yummy! Enjoy all the pictures.

A Beautiful Day

2009-11-08T16:47:00.002-05:00

Today it was in the 70's here. Shea and I took advantage of that and went to the park. She rode her bike and got to swing. One of her favorite things to do. Then she did something that she has never really done before and boy am I so glad to have been part of it. She pretended! She had a post office and was delivering the mail to me! She is really starting to come out of her shell. Enjoy the pictures, although I think it is time for a new camera for me!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-03T08:52:00.002-05:00

Some pictures from our Happy Halloween! We got lots of candy and Shealin really had a good time trick or treating with cousin Jeremy.

Imagine

2009-10-22T18:06:00.003-04:00

As a parent it irks me that people seem to feel that even though Shealin was adopted at a young age, she can't possibly remember any of her time in the orphanage or anything that happened to her while she was there. I believe that she can. At 4 years of age my daughter is finally starting to emerge. I believe she is finally realizing that we are a family and this is her house and the toys are her toys. It has been a long journey to get to this point, each hug and kiss, each set of tears has been one small step in this journey. I love this beautiful little girl more than anything, and I can't imagine life without her. So to anyone who thinks she could not possibly remember, I ask you to just let yourself go for a minute and imagine what it was like.

Imagine being safe and warm cushioned in your mother's womb, you feel secure and content. Imagine being born feeling scared, hungry and cold oh so cold. Imagine being held for a short time and suddenly being wrapped in a blanket and placed in a basket and left at the bank. Imagine crying for what seemed like hours until someone noticed you were there. Where is my mommy? I'm so hungry! Imagine living in a place with lots of other babies all needing attention and never getting enough, but what you get you hold onto like it was the last time you will ever get it. Imagine being taken from your crib in the middle of the night. Imagine being taken from everything and everyone you know. Imagine the chaos of it, the screaming staff and crying babies. Imagine a nine hour bus ride, with strangers. Imagine a new crib shoved to the corner. Where are all of my friends? Imagine starting to get used to your new crib and caretakers. You start to think this place is not so bad. Then imagine one day being loaded into a van and taking a very long ride. When the ride is over imagine being handed to a very large stranger with tears in her eyes, in a room full of strangers all talking a strange language. Imagine all of this in your lifetime and yet you are only a year old. How would you react? How would you be? Imagine spending 3 months with this new lady, she keeps calling herself mama. Imagine one day she drops you off at daycare. All day you wonder is this my new home? Where is that lady? Imagine how happy you are when she comes back to pick you up. Imagine starting to feel safe again in your routine, only to become sick and wind up in the hospital. Imagine during this whole time you can't see really well, but you can't talk yet to let anyone know. Imagine being walked to the operating room and being put on the table by the one person you have come to trust. Imagine waking up in pain and she is not there to comfort you until finally they place you in her arms. Can you imagine always feeling on edge? Always waiting to see if something was going to change your world? Imagine growing up that way.
I was unprepared to lose my heart to this little imp! Our time in China was easy. She slept 80 percent of the trip. All of the other parents told me that I got the easy baby. I was worried. My daughter was hurting. She was dealing with it the only way she could. Little did she know that soon enough she would have to deal with this mama, and little did I know just how stubborn and persistent she can be. Each day brings us closer and thank God for his infinite wisdom for putting us together.

I Apologize

2009-10-22T17:43:00.002-04:00

I apologize for not updating the blog in such a long time. Someone, who shall be named at a later date hid my camera. I just found it today! So here are a couple of pictures of my cutie and some of her schoolwork.

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Notice the bruise on her face! Her face met the water table at daycare.

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First Day of School!

2009-09-09T08:22:00.003-04:00

Today Shealin started Pre-K. I am not sure which one of us was more nervous. She woke up at 5 and was fell asleep at 6:30. She said she was not scared, but when we went outside to get in the car she saw a school bus two houses down and got so nervous she asked me to pick her up. Poor pumpkin, I had to keep assuring her that she was going daycare first and the bus would piok her up there. We have been going over the routine for a couple of weeks. I guess she thought it changed. She looks really grown up in her uniform. For the record I did not cry, I got a little sad, but did not want her to see me upset. Enjoy the pictures!

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Haircut

2009-09-09T08:18:00.002-04:00

Shealin went to get a haircut to start the school year. She got to sit in the purple princess jeep and watch Barney(her choosing). She was only a little nervous and opted not to have her hair blown dry.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

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Random Cuteness!

2009-09-09T08:16:00.002-04:00

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Family Day 2009

2009-07-20T17:38:00.003-04:00

Dear Shealin,
These words describe you as I see you, I am sure the list will grow over the years:

S- stubborn, silly, spicy, smart, sassy, snuggley(I am sure that is not a word)
H- helpful, healthy, humorous
E- energetic, eager, edgy
A- amazing, adorable, active
L- lovable, loving, lanky
I- independent, inquisitive, intelligent, impish, impatient
N- nice, naughty(not always)

3 Years, 1095 days, 26280 hours, 1,576,800 minutes have passed and yet it seems like yesterday that you were placed in my arms. You were such a tiny little peanut with spiky hair, so full of wonder at everything going on around you. I will never know what you felt in those moments, but I fell in love instantly. I knew we were meant to be together and that you would fit into my life perfectly. You make me laugh every day, you can brighten my darkest days, you can frustrate me and try my patience like no other. I have loved every second of every year, day hour and minute that we have been a family. I am so blessed to have you, my daughter and I look forward to our lifetime together. This day brings many memories, the long wait until the bus left for the Civil Affairs Office, the chaos of handing over 5 babies to 5 different families, the tears and smiles on every one's face. I think of your birth parents and I thank them for you. I think of the great friends we have made: The Burningham Family, the Monforton/Roginske Family and the Munsinger Family. I am thankful for it all. Happy Forever Family Day 2009.
Love,
Mommy

The following pictures are all of Shealin and her 100 Good Wishes Quilt. Judy we thank you so very much. We both love it. Words cannot express how much we love it. Shealin has asked to go night night with it. You have won her approval. Thank you again and again. It is beautiful!

Parenthood

2009-07-10T20:25:00.002-04:00

Parenthood is not for the feint of heart. You never have all the answers, and only want the very best for your child. Sometimes the answers are hard to find or are not concrete. While this may be hard you march on and keep looking. I will never know all of the details of Shealin's life before she came into my life, but I will say I don't think it was great. I am forever thankful to China and the people that have brought her to me, but at the same time so wish it could have been sooner. I strongly encourage anyone that is waiting to make sure upon arrival home no matter what anyone and I do mean anyone says call for early intervention. Have your child evaluated as soon as possible. The worst that can happen is they won't qualify. Always listen to yourself, and don't second guess yourself. I did not listen to myself and should have gotten Shealin help for her speech much earlier than I did, being a first time parent I listened to others and not myself. She is getting great thearpy now and I am so happy with her progress over the last week and half. She has made some great strides in speech and in her summer program. She brings home so many wonderful projects that all relate to what she needs to work on. I am truly amazed at this beautiful little girl. Here she is in her new hat that she made today in school. It has a giraffe, monkey and ladybug on it all things she loves!

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Birthday Pics

2009-07-07T20:56:00.002-04:00

Not many as my camera was down for the count.

Fashion Bug

2009-07-07T20:52:00.001-04:00

I think she has a career in fashion in the future! Wearing a Santa hat in July or wearing a laundry bag, she has her own unique sense of style.

Happy Birthday!

2009-06-05T08:18:00.002-04:00

I can't believe my baby is four today! The time just flew by. She has been so excited about her birthday, but when she got to school, she was not having a good morning. She was very out of sorts. I sure hope she has a great day!
Her first official birthday picture!

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Random Photos

2009-06-05T08:11:00.002-04:00

I have not posted in awhile. So I thought I would put up a few random Shealin shots.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

First 2009 Trip to the Boardwalk

2009-05-02T22:52:00.002-04:00

We had scme great weekend weather about 2 weeks ago, so we hopped in the car and headed to the shore. Shealin loves going on the rides. She even went on a roller coaster with Lea this year! See if you can pick them out. I will give you a hint, they are in the first seat of the third car, Lea is wearing a yellow shirt and Shealin a red one. Good Luck!

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Shealin's Project

2009-05-02T22:49:00.002-04:00

Shealin and Mommy had a project to do for school. It was during the week of the young child. We had to make a banner, using anything we wanted that incorporated her culture and showed just what makes her, well her. So here it is.

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And here is a cute picture of her!

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Shea reads to Mommy

2009-04-23T20:33:00.004-04:00

My little pumpkin, who has struggled with her speech decided to read to mommy. It makes me feel so good to hear her read her favorite book. She is really starting to put the words all together. Music to my ears!

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T22:19:00.002-04:00

Egg coloring and chocolate bunnies, egg hunting and falling asleep in the car. Yes, Shealin had a great Easter and we hope all of you did as well.

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We Met Baby Andrew!

2009-04-12T22:14:00.002-04:00

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Shealin playing the guitar with Ryan, one of her very best buds! He came up with her nickname SheaButter. Ryan, Alyssa and Charlotte used to live downstairs from us. We wish they still did. They have since added a new member to the family. Baby Andrew the most handsome of all little boys.

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Here is a cute picture of Big sis Charlotte. She loves her baby!

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Hippity Hoppity we saw the Bunny!

2009-04-10T22:18:00.002-04:00

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I'm thinking the bunny looks a little tired. What a shame they had about 8 more hours to go!

For Susan

2009-04-09T18:17:00.003-04:00

Ok, I know I have been neglecting to update. I have been working on a vacation slideshow extravaganza. I truly mean it will be awesome, in my eyes anyway. So I took a break and shot some pictures of my little peanut just for you. I shot a video too, however it came out sideways and I cannot figure out just how to rotate it. Shea sends hugs and kisses to you and Kylie!

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

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Springtime fun.

2009-03-08T09:51:00.002-04:00

Yesterday it hit 70 degrees. So Shea and I hit the sidewalk and went to the park. She got to ride her scooter outside finally. She rode all the way to the park a short walk, but long scooter ride away. While at the park she enjoyed torturing mommy by running from one end to the other to use each slide. Then she hung on the bars for a while and wanted to come home. She took a 3 hour nap! Must be the fresh air.

Artwork

2009-03-08T09:42:00.003-04:00

At Shealin's new school she does a lot of very cool art projects. Here are some from the last few months. In no particular order.

A handprint reindeer!

Her Mardi-Gras mask.

A Valentine Lovebug.

A pinecone penguin minus one eye.

Look What Shea Got!

2009-02-17T21:21:00.003-05:00

Glasses! Her wish has finally come true. Her eye doctor has finally determined that she is far sighted in both of her eyes. Now I just have to get her to wear them all the time. Ha Ha!

My American Idol

2009-01-28T20:07:00.002-05:00

Playdate with Charlotte

2009-01-28T20:02:00.002-05:00

On Saturday we had a playdate with Charlotte. She used to live downstairs from us and we miss her. We miss her parents too. We even got to see our friend Kathy, she lives upstairs and we never get to see her. The girls played, not always together and we got to talk and eat pizza and some great brownies. Kathy brought cute Oscar cookies for the girls. We look forward to seeing them all again soon.

The Year of The Ox

2009-01-25T20:27:00.001-05:00

Myspace Chinese New year Comments & Graphics

Myspace Graphic Codes

Tagged

2009-01-13T20:13:00.011-05:00

I have been tagged by Susan. I have to go to the 4th photo folder in my computer and post the 4th photo in there. I sure hope that it is not one of me. LoL! So here it is.........

Whew! A beautiful close up of Shealin taken just moments after she was placed in my arms. Oh what a wonderful day that was!
Now to tag others, and who should it be? I tag some other great moms whose blogs I follow:
Iris

Brooke

Crystal

Happy Belated New Year!

2009-01-13T20:10:00.003-05:00

She did not see the ball drop, she fell asleep 20 minutes before the big moment. We had fun before that blowing noisemakers and eating some treats.

I Love this Picture!

2008-12-30T19:28:00.001-05:00

Is this not the best picture? I love it. Jodi, one of our most favorite people in the whole world came over a couple of weeks ago to bake with us. She captured this photo of Shea looking at herself in the measuring cup. She framed it and gave it to me for Christmas. I just love it.

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Christmas Morning

2008-12-29T20:02:00.002-05:00

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Hmmmm, wonder what's in here? A beautiful handprint painted yellow and dated of course!

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Santa was here!

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Shea checking out her new scooter.

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Opening a present with her Zio!

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Chilling in her new Gymboree clothes. I love the tutu!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-26T09:40:00.003-05:00

Well here we are the day after Christmas and there are still two unwrapped gifts under the tree. Shealin just does not seem to be into Christmas. She loves her scooter and her harmonica. She also really like her little Tinkerbell doll that has wings that move. She has been up late and seems tired today. Thats fine by mommy, I would be content to veg all day. We hope everyone had a wonderful day with your families. We enjoyed our day together. We played Hi Ho Cherry O and Candyland, ate delicious ham and watched A Christmas Story. Enjoy the pictures.

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Shealin posing with the tree.

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What glasses?

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Waiting for the train.

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Chilling with Pop-Pop

Still More Disney Fun!

2008-12-16T19:53:00.003-05:00

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Shea, Mama and Lea kicking back in the Kingdom!

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Jade, Maya and Shealin at the Nemo ride in Epcot.

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Shea and Goofy, she looks a little nervous.

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Do you think we tired her out?

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Yep, in the pool and smiling. Of course I was off shopping!

More Disney Fun!

2008-12-13T22:18:00.003-05:00

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Are we having fun yet?

2008-12-06T22:40:00.002-05:00

Yes, we are! We arrived safely on Thursday afternoon. We found our way to the Magical Express and were swiftly moved to the Coronado Springs resort. We met Susan, Mark and Kylie and headed out to dinner at the Rainforest Cafe! I must say I love the Munsinger Family!!!!! They are so sweet. Later on we met Scott, Nancy, Tru and Maya. On Friday the Burningham Clan came over and the party really started. We took a short bus ride over to the Magic Kingdom and our day began. It again is so neat to see the girls all together again this year. My how they have grown! On Friday night Lea, Shea, the Munsingers and Lisa D. headed to Mickey's Merry Christmas Party and a great time was had by all. On Saturday we moved on over to Epcot. Enjoy the pictures!

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

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My Little Turkey

2008-11-26T21:26:00.002-05:00

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My Musician

2008-11-20T19:41:00.003-05:00

I truly believe that Shealin will be blessed with some sort of musical talent. She loves music. She watches Elmo Country all the time and wants a harmonica very badly. I believe Santa or Zio will be leaving one under the tree for her. Here is a little video of her attempting to play her pretend harmonica. I'm sorry that it is a little dark. Enjoy!

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Halloween Fun!

2008-11-02T15:54:00.003-05:00

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books
We went trick or treating, got lots of treats. Had a great dinner at Gramma and Pop Pops house. Gramma gave Shea a little giraffe, that opens up and has a necklace inside. It is her new favorite thing. Hope you all had as great a day as we did.

For Meryl!

2008-10-29T21:01:00.002-04:00

New pictures and video for one of the sweetest and nicest people we happen to know.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Tagged Again!

2008-10-23T21:45:00.008-04:00

I was tagged by Susan and now have to list 7 weird or random facts about myself, so here goes.

1. I loooooovvvvveeeee Disney! Love going to Disney World, love the movies(animated ones) and the original versions of the classic films. I hope Shealin loves it too!

2. I am never technically challenged, I can figure out how to put things together, fix them and even taught myself how to use Excel. Does that make me a geek?

3. I was co-captain of the color guard and the president of chorus in high school.

4. I have traveled to England, France, Belgium and China.

5. I want to travel to Ireland and Scotland. Hope I win the lottery!

6. I love Genoa salami and it has to be Hormel Dilusso! Its the very best.

7. I really wish I could give Shea a brother or a sister, but that too requires the lottery. Hmmm, I really have to play more.

8. Added bonus, I love to play Ps2, I am an RPG nut. I have not played since Shea has been home and I am getting antsy!

Okay, so now I am supposed to tag 7 random peeps, however Susan, Dusty and Kris have already been tagged. I don't want to tag Donna as she is so close to becoming a mommy! So I am breaking the rules and only tagging Crystal!

Halloween Preview!!!

2008-10-09T17:49:00.002-04:00

Ok, I think she will possibly be upset with me for making her wear this when she is say 17. I think it will be cute to show her prom date. She really liked trying it on, and I had to make her take it off. I pray it is not 80 degrees on Halloween. She is busy practicing Trick or Treat.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

The World According To Shealin

2008-09-28T15:17:00.002-04:00

The above pictures were taken by Shea on her own camera. I have finally gotten around to putting some on the computer and uploading them. Hope you enjoy. My personal favorite is her self portrait, followed by the smoke alarm.

Future Rockstar . . . . Maybe?

2008-08-27T17:43:00.002-04:00

We went back to the shore last weekend. We started out at Abbie's house and finished up at the boardwalk. Shealin went on more rides this time, even though she was dead tired. Lea won her a pink guitar, which made her even happier. Check out my little rock diva.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Lea and Rides Equals Fun!

2008-08-18T22:26:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday, Shealin and I took a ride to the shore. Along the way we stopped and picked up her "Lee" aka Lea. We ate junkfood on the boardwalk for dinner and made our way to the rides. Shealin would not go on anything by herself last year, so Lea took her on them. As you will see in the pictures she is not afraid anymore! Enjoy the pics and video.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Snug As A Bug

2008-08-18T22:22:00.002-04:00

Shealin aka Shealinus has taken to her purple "blankie" that Nanny Wehrell made for her. She seems to have given up her sun glass obsession in favor of carrying around blankie and pillow. I brought this blanket to China with me, but she always hated blankets. In toddler world things change faster than I can keep up.

We Went, It Was Hot, We Met Bert

2008-08-04T21:26:00.002-04:00

On Friday we went to Sesame Place. Shea of course did not like the water attractions, but did like the shows, characters and some of the rides. She loves Bert. She does the Pigeon all the time. We went with Lea and Sophia, who loves Abby Cadabby. Enjoy the pictures.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Check Out These Glasses!

2008-08-04T21:19:00.002-04:00

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This pair was given to Shea from Jodi! She also gave her a great Mexican Fiesta pair which I have not yet mangaged to capture her in.

Two Years As A Family

2008-07-20T00:12:00.002-04:00

There are not enough words to express my feelings on this day. On July 20, 2006 we became a family. Two whole years have gone by! Where did that time go? It went by so fast and yet while I was waiting for her, I could have sworn time was standing still.
We will spend the day with family, and I have a special treat for all my blog friends. A brand spanking new video to celebrate this special day with us. To the Burningham and Roginske families I will be thinking of you today. I am so thankful for these 3 beautiful girls for bringing us all together. We can't wait to see you in December. Of course we look forward to finally meeting the Munsinger family in person too. Enjoy the video! I don't do anything small so of course it's in two parts.

Tagged!

2008-07-08T12:06:00.000-04:00

I have been tagged! This is the first time that I have been tagged and so I am a little slow in my response. Dusty has tagged me and I have to write 6 words that describe how I am feeling right now, and then tag 5 others. That will be hard as I can think of 3, but I will come up with 2 more. I met Dusty through her Adoption Voyages web site, and this December we hope to meet them in person!

1. Awe- I am not sure if this is a really considered a feeling, but I feel it all the time. When I watch Shealin sleep, I am still in awe that she is here and she is mine. I love to watch her sleep. Which leads me to my next feeling.

2. Exhausted- Single motherhood is a challenge sometimes. Working all day and cooking/cleaning and keeping a 3 year old happy at night, can leave a person very tired. I often find myself falling asleep right along side her.

3. Full- I feel full for the first time in a long time. When I say full I mean my heart is full. Before Shealin, I always felt that a piece was missing and for a long time I did not know what it was. She has filled that missing piece. While she can try my patience at times, I cannot imagine my life without her.

4. Blessed- For many reasons I feel blessed. Blessed for having Shealin in my life, but also for meeting so many wonderful people along the way. I am also blessed with such wonderful friends, who have helped me before, during and after.

5. Impatient- Sometimes, I feel great impatience with Shealin, I forget that she is only 3. I also feel we should be further along with our potty training, although others tell me it will happen when she is ready, it will click. I am working on this, as I keep telling her she has no patience, hmmmm wonder where she picked that up?

6. Scared- I feel scared that our time together will be over way to soon. Not sure why I feel this way, but I do. I am scared I will never be able to give her everything I want for her and hope what I have is enough.

OK that's me in 6 strong words now to pick 5 others, so here goes I tag:

Susan - Aka Kylie's mommy. She answered all of my "waiting" questions and then some.

Kris - a great single mom to be. She takes the best pictures and writes so beautifully.

Heather - another mom to be, sooner and later. A fellow Jerseyan whose blog I love to follow.

Donna - We don't really know each other, but I follow her blog, its a great blog and they should be getting their referral in the next couple of months.

Laurie - Another single mom to be. We don't know each other, but I follow her blog.

OK, you have to write six words that describe how you are feeling right now and link back to me. Than tag 5 more people, and leave them a comment to let them know they are tagged.

Have fun ladies!

Behold the Princess

2008-06-24T21:59:00.000-04:00

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Lea gave Shealin a dress up trunk for her birthday. As you can see she likes it. She has even insisted on wearing a few of the dresses to bed.

Shealin and her ABC's

2008-06-24T21:56:00.000-04:00

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Thank You!

2008-06-24T21:53:00.000-04:00

A great BIG THANK YOU, to the Roginske family. Maya, Tru, Nancy and Scott Shealin loves the frame you sent her. She loves, loves, loves ladybugs. I put a picture of her and Elmo in it and she has been carrying it all aroung the house. I will post a picture of it, as soon as I find where she hid it tonight. We can't wait to see you in 5 months!

Big Birthday Bash!

2008-06-08T19:20:00.000-04:00

Shea's Birthday!

2008-06-07T21:58:00.000-04:00

Shealin's 3rd Birthday was on Thursday. She went off to school wearing her cute little pink Birthday Girl shirt and tiara. At 2 Mommy showed up with cupcakes and goodie pails for her classmates. Her reaction, and these are her exact words "Ok, bye" She saw me and figured it was time to go home.
Enjoy these pics from her actual birthday. Check out her new camera.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

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2008-06-05T08:05:00.000-04:00

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She Did It!

2008-05-16T22:01:00.000-04:00

Shea got a haircut! She hated the whole process. I wanted to take video, but of course I needed new batteries and did not bring them with me. Marie, our wonderful stylist had her camera and took some pictures. She will email them to me soon. Here are a couple of pics of her new doo. Keep in mind, Mommy did not want it too short.

Sorry!

2008-05-16T21:54:00.000-04:00

Ok sorry, I know I have not posted in a very long time. I have been busy. I am not really sure with what, but I just seem so tired at night and I apologize. Shea has been talking more and more. She has really taken off. I will try to catch her very soon saying her letters. Here she is in her new Abby Cadabby outfit.

Who said you can't sleep in two pairs of glasses?

2008-04-19T14:40:00.001-04:00

Birthday Party!

2008-04-19T14:31:00.000-04:00

Last week Shea got invited to a party. She was so excited to carry the present, that she did not even want to bring scarf or pillow. I brought one and left it in the car just in case. She had such a good time playing outside on the swings. She enjoyed seeing her very favorite "Titis" from her daycare. She loves those ladies. Check out her new shades, which by the way don't hold up very well under my sneaker!

Pictures, Pictures

2008-04-10T22:19:00.000-04:00

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

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Shealin's Jumper

2008-04-10T22:12:00.000-04:00

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Shealin got a "little" trampoline for Christmas. Yes, I just finally put it together, and let me tell you it was not easy! Shea was afraid of it at first, but he Zio talked her thru it. I'm not sure where she gets the dance move from, it sure isn't me.

Elmo 2008

2008-03-31T21:31:00.000-04:00

Yes, its that Elmo time of year! My little peanut danced the entire show. She loves the the whole gang, even Oscar. It is so much fun watching her have a good time.
Enjoy the pictures.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

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Can you tell by her flying pigtails that she was spin dancing? Yes, scarf had to come too.

Happy Easter

2008-03-23T11:18:00.001-04:00

We hope everyone has a very Happy Easter. The bunny was able to find his way to Shea's basket and left lots of goodies. Sure hope she will share. She has been sick the last couple of days, so it was nice to see her excited this morning when she saw her basket. Enjoy the pictures, the video is a little dark, but she had so much fun with her eggs.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

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The Cutest Bunny!

2008-03-16T21:36:00.000-04:00

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Brownie Batter Girl

2008-03-11T20:59:00.000-04:00

We love to bake can you tell. I think if her mouth was bigger the entire spatula would have been in her mouth. Tonights yummies are caramel turtle brownies! Sad to say little miss was asleep before 8 and did not get to sample her wares. The last pictrue is how she fell asleep tonight.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

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Cousin It!

2008-03-10T21:39:00.000-04:00

I am torn, should I cut her hair or wait. I am so thinking she will turn into hellcat when faced with a pair of scissors in a salon. I would not attempt it myself, as I think she would freak. Any thoughts? She hates to wear her hair up lately and that creates a problem. See above picture.

We Had Snow!

2008-03-10T21:33:00.000-04:00

OK, I admit I am a bit behind. And, yes Miss Anonymous aka Lea, even though you took Shea for the weekend, I still didn't update. However, I only had one new picture and I don't think most of our visitors want to see me. So here we have our belated snow day pictures. Yes, we both got to have the day off because of this storm. Shealin really loved helping me shovel. A big shout out to James for taking the picture of Shea and I together.

Artwork

2008-02-19T19:39:00.000-05:00

Here they are Shealin's masterpieces. I love them! She won't leave them on the refrigerator though. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Reflux Update

2008-02-19T19:38:00.000-05:00

Thanks for all your good thoughts, prayers and well wishes. I am happy to report that Shealin no longer has reflux and can stop taking antibiotics. The test was not fun, but thankfully it is over and she will not have to have it again.

Shea and Mommy's Terrible, Horrible, No Good Day

2008-02-18T09:09:00.001-05:00

Today Shealin has to go for her Radio Nuclide Voiding Cysto Urethogram. I am sure some of that is spelled wrong. This is the big test she had last year and had to be strapped down to the table. So please send a little prayer our way that all goes well and she has outgrown the reflux, so that we never have to do this test again. Thanks everyone!

My Little Valentine

2008-02-15T23:35:00.000-05:00

Who needs flowers or candy when you have the cutest little Valentine right in your own home? Shealin loves her Elmo aka Belbo cookie filled lunch box from her Zio. He also got her some cute little light up hearts, that she likes to carry around. I took these pictures right before we left for the day. You should have seen her afterwards. She sure knows how to enjoy a pizza party. Thank God for Oxiclean!

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Shealin Celebrates The Year of The Rat

2008-02-07T22:34:00.000-05:00

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Happy Chinese New Year!

2008-02-07T22:26:00.000-05:00

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Mom

2008-02-05T21:56:00.000-05:00

28 years ago this week I remember feeling numb. Feeling like nothing would ever be the same. I lost my Mom, my best friend. In the short time we had together we had some wild and crazy times. I got my love for road trips and sense of direction from her. We learned to ski together and she taught me how to ice skate, she shared my love of Abba music and I share her love of Elvis movies. I have so many fond memories of awesome Christmas and Easter Bunny surprises. And while she never wanted to grow old and be a grandmother, I can't help but think that Shealin would have her wrapped around her little finger. Yes, life hasn't been the same and it was tough for a long time, but life has gotten so much better, fuller and richer. I hope to build as many fun and crazy memories for Shealin, I am only sorry she will never know her. I still miss my mom everyday, that will never go away. In my heart I know she is watching over us, with a smile as she talks to Mr. Presley. Mom, I love you and I am not sorry I made you a grandma, I am sure you would agree. The black and white photo is my mom's baby picture and the color one is my first birthday.

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Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing - Photo Books

Future Movie Star?

2008-02-04T22:35:00.000-05:00

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Glasses and Basket

2008-02-04T22:25:00.000-05:00

As you can see Shealin, still loves glasses and her laundry basket. She has a harder time getting in the basket but still loves to play in it.

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My Little Princess

2008-02-04T22:21:00.000-05:00

Every little girl wants to be a princess right? Here is Shealin finally wearing the crown that The Burningham family gave to her on our visit. Sadly, shortly after this picture was taken, Mommy was not paying attention and stepped on it and broke her crown. Now, Debbie where can I buy a new one?

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Spring Picture Preview

2008-01-22T21:59:00.000-05:00

Yes, once again it is spring picture time. Well in 2 weeks, but a mom has to prepare.
What will she wear? Well how about this little outfit?

A Tea Party

2008-01-22T21:53:00.000-05:00

On Saturday 3 very special ladies came for a visit. They came baring gifts, one very special gift was a Magical Tea Party Set. Brianna, Katie and Jackie (my nieces) played with Shea all night. Jackie even let her play on her Nintendo DS. Shea had such a great time, even though at first she was beating them up. I think she drank 9 cups of "tea". To the girls thank you so much we can't wait for you to come over again. We love you!

The Coolest Shoes

2008-01-22T21:44:00.000-05:00

Check out Shealin's new Converse. I think they are so cool. A gift from cousins Chris, and Katie. They even got her an outfit to match. She loves to put these on even around the house.

Check Out My Grammy Jammies

2008-01-14T22:15:00.000-05:00

Zio got me this great pair of jammies for Christmas. They have Tinkerbell on them. He says I look like a little gram ma in my jammies. I love them! They are so soft and a 3T! I am getting bigger. I had a little pillow trauma last week, he accidentally got thrown away at daycare. I cried and cried and would not take a nap. They found him, but he needed a bath. I was sooooooooo tired that I fell asleep at 6:30 pm and did not wake up until 6:30 am the next day. Mommy went to bed early, cause she thought I was gonna get up at 3 or 4 and want breakfast. Silly, Mommy. Enjoy the pics of cute little me.

Scarf

2008-01-09T22:08:00.000-05:00

Here is Shealin with her new favorite scarf. Yes, a scarf. Shea has left tag in the dust for scarf. We have to wear it everywhere, even to bed. Ok, so some of you are thinking a scarf to bed!!!!!!!!! Well, rest assured she does not sleep with it wrapped around her neck. Now if Santa had only known how much fun scarves could be. I'm sure they will be out by next year.

A Conversation with Shealin on Christmas Eve

2007-12-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

It was very late on Christmas Eve and Shealin should have been asleep hours already. So when we finally arrived home at 1 am, I said to her "Shea, we need to put out cookies for Santa" Shealin firmly shakes her head no. "You don't want to leave cookies for Santa?" Again a firm no. I decide on a new tactic, "OK, but we need to put up your stocking for Santa" Shealin again gives me a NO. "Alright, I will just put it here on the chair just in case." Off we go to bed. In the morning, I ask her if she thinks Santa came. I get that no again. We come out to the living room and clearly he has been here. Shealin, sits in her chair and refuses to look at the tree, presents etc. I ask if she is sure Santa did not come. She keeps shaking her head no. Finally I point to her new toy kitchen and ask well "Whats this?" It was a whole new ballgame after that. She did get tired of opening presents though. Guess we still didn't cut down enough here.

2007-12-24T15:34:00.001-05:00

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2007-12-24T15:30:00.001-05:00

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A Special Request

2007-12-18T23:52:00.000-05:00

To our friends in Montana, Nancy and Scott please send me your new email address. I know you sent it to me once before, but it didn't get saved in my address book. How I love computers. Hope all is well with you guys. We miss you!

Why Zio's Shouldn't Style Hair

2007-12-17T22:39:00.000-05:00

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Because they think Reese's wrappers make good hair decorations. Shealin loves her peanut butter cups. Shea and Zio will share a couple and then he decorates her hair, which she now asks him to do.

What Happens After A Very Busy Day?

2007-12-17T22:34:00.000-05:00

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You fall asleep 5 minutes into your very favorite Elmo video. Shealin enjoyed her day at daycare so much that she only took an hour nap. She averages a 2 - 3 hour usually. When we come each day she wants to watch an Elmo video. This allows Mommy to actually cook dinner somewhat uninterrupted. She slept for 2 hours and was up until midnight. Good thing Mommy had off the next day.

What To Do On a Snowy Day!

2007-12-03T22:37:00.001-05:00

Bake a cake of course, complete with snowmen.

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Under the Weather

2007-11-30T11:18:00.000-05:00

Both Shea and I have been sick. She is doing much better than mommy. I am tired of wiping boogers though Yuck!

Shea, Pillow and Tag Meet Santa

2007-11-27T17:10:00.000-05:00

Yes, its true Pillow and Tag had to meet Santa too. I'm surprised we did not have to bring some glasses too. She loved Santa, and since it was not at all crowded she got to sit and babble with him for a long time. He gave her a coloring book too. She loves to color aka scribble. I am so glad she was not scared this year.

2007-11-24T16:08:00.000-05:00

Bailey we hope you had a great day! We are glad you liked your present. We miss you all and can't wait to see you.