Two Worlds, One Family

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2010-12-02T16:59:00.001-08:00

I keep this blog open for a bit of history and fun photos, but I mostly post on facebook. Find me there, just follow my profile badge :)

June 11, 2009

2009-06-13T17:29:00.000-07:00

Not vomit, nor liquid pooh, nor anything else kept me from graduating this day - thought we nearly turned around in North Bay the day we left - Maia was sick the day before we left, Jaida the night of - we are talking about full blown disgusting vomity feverish flu - and still had a fever on her way home today. Maia was out of commission all week. My mom watched her - and got so sick herself too - man oh man - I swear - half way there Marty was starting to feel queasy and we almost turned back....but I made it!!

It felt so good to go - to go through the ceremonies (a morning one for Renison, and then the main one in the afternoon) - and to finally see my degree in hand. I even made the Dean's Honour List :) It's a three year degree in Social Development Studies (combo of social work and psychology).

Whew! Anyways, it was a moment and I was glad I had it. I must thank my husband for all the extra time spent allowing me to do this - he is one in a million.

Loss of a great lady

2009-05-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

My Nan passed away Friday, May 15th. She was 94. You will see the pics below from the last time we spent with her. She was one cool lady who always said what she thought with no apologies, and loved life. One of the last times I saw her, she said, I can't see much, and I can't hear much, but I can still close my eyes and remember the last time I went to Texas and the heat of the sun...(she loved to travel) - she appreciated everything.

The very last thing she said to me as I held her hand and pressed my face against her soft cheek, was how proud she was of me, and that she was excited for my "big day".

I will be wearing my black graduation dress, bought for my upcoming convocation at Waterloo June 11th - to her service this Wednesday.

Nan loved to party. She didn't want a service - she wanted a party for her. I'll never forget the last time she was at my house a few months ago. My uncle wheeled her in in her wheelchair, and she was clutching her bag from the LCBO with her bottles of wine. I have adopted her red wine habit and hope it along with her attitude get me to 94 as well...

I am going to miss her so much, and am so incredibly grateful that she lived close to me for the last few months of her life so I could have more time with her. I hadn't lived near her most of my life, so that was pretty special time these past months being able to visit her more often.

Thanks Nan, for that awesome view of the world and your love of life. I'll remember that's what kept you with us for so long.

Happy Easter

2009-04-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

The kids got spoiled with too many treats this weekend, but they did get things that weren't chocolote - including priceless time with their 94 year old great-grandmother, a ride on a horse, and time with their grandparents, Bill and Barb.

Here is an interesting link to CNN on the current state of Chinese adoptions.

We have shared our story about adopting Jaxon on a special website that features children with China with special needs,

NO HANDS BUT OURS - look under the Family Stories page.

I am so glad this website shares stories of so many families who have received such joy from very special kids. I hope that some of the stories there touch your heart as they have touched mine.

A little update

2009-03-07T12:41:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I posted...my babies keep me so busy!

It will be 4 years on March 27th, for our "Gotcha Day" Anniversary for Jaida. I uploaded our family pic that was taken the day after we got her - for our official adoption signing. I can't believe how the time has flown!

Jaxon is continuing to keep us laughing, and has started speech therapy recently. His speech is very behind, but nothing else is - his energy, his joy, his attempts to communicate and copy us, are always overflowing. He is trying so hard to copy what we say. He is really coming along!

Enjoy the recent pics of the kids...

My blog title...Why it's "Two Worlds 1 Family"

2009-02-07T08:00:00.001-08:00

You know, I cannot sit here and listen to the lyrics of this song, without totally choking up. All the songs on my playlist are songs we chose when we made our adoption videos for the kids...

Every day, I give thanks that I was able to adopt my two youngest children. After Maia was born, I felt such grief at not being able to have more children naturally, by choice (I didn't want to face more miscarriages nor abortion)

I'm a Disney fan, and you cannot watch the movie "Tarzan" about the momma gorilla losing her child, and then being able to find and raise Tarzan...I know, it's a cartoon darn it Steph, and where is the comparison with animals??

It's about adoption. It's about that inconsolable pain that you have and the relief and joy you feel when it is filled. I cannot tell you what our youngest children have done for Martin and I.

Going to China was like going to another world for us. Our children are from a place so far, but are now a part of our lives. Thus the lyrics just spoke to me...and I love Phil Collins who just speaks straight to my heart...

"No words describe a mothers tears
No words can heal a broken heart
A dream is gone, but where theres hope

Somewhere something is calling for you
Two worlds, one family
Trust your heart
Let fate decide
To guide these lives we see"

Two Worlds. One Family.

Chinese New Year 2009

2009-01-27T06:21:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed taking our two beautiful children to celebrate Chinese New Year yesterday with the local Chinese community. They had so much fun!

Now open for business :) - And a Year of Jaxon!

2009-01-14T06:00:00.001-08:00

I decided to reopen my blog here. Initially I was worried about Jaida starting school, posting too many videos of her at school - so I have decided to just delete most of those (I left the Halloween one, too cute) and from now on just post videos to Facebook so that part is more private, and still share about our lives raising them here.

Today is a cancelled bus day - it's -35 outside without the windchill (brr!). All the kids are rocking out to the Cheetah Girls in the living room. Maia is a week into her new medication so I am quite happy to have her around again. (You can see her blog for her story).

I saw a new family on a list I am on get a sweet little boy from Guangdong Province yesterday - and in a week it will be our one year Jaxaversary - aka our "gotcha day". On January 21, 2008 we watched a timid little boy walk up to us. Now we watch him body slam into us. I LOVE this kid so much. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be his mom. I registered him on Monday to start school next September!

Sorry I am behind readers!

2008-12-29T17:09:00.001-08:00

Well, I am just home from a lovely evening with my friends - (you know who you are!) and three glasses of wine to calm my nerves. Maia has been brutal (read her blog).

Anyways, my trip to Cancun was fantastic and I am grateful to work for such a generous employer who paid for that! The weather was perfect, I got to see the Mayan ruins that I've wanted to see my whole life, and when I came home, my babies were happy to see me. Jaida and Jaxon are the only reason I have not yet lost my sanity with Maia.

My husband treated me like a queen and I got diamond earrings for Christmas. I may feel like a queen but I also feel like a jail warden (again, Maia, I am almost ready to commit myself or her).

Enjoy the photos, and I give my best wishes for 2009.

So, who wouldn't be proud?

2008-12-11T10:37:00.001-08:00

My baby girl (Jaida) had her first report card and I met with her teacher. I am proud to say she is at the top of her class :) Marty and I both went to see her in her first Christmas Concert this morning, she was so proud! I love her school photo - her hair is so long.

A special moment...

2008-11-25T19:54:00.000-08:00

Sunday evening, we were having dinner, and listening to a CD of Andrea Bocelli. One of the songs from his CD, I used in Jaxon's adoption video (We believe). When Jaxon heard the song, he ran up and touched the television, and kept saying his Chinese name and pointing to himself - "Junlong!" _ I said, you want to watch your video? Yeah, yeah!!

I put it on, and he kept pointing to his baby photos, saying " baby" and "Junlong" and then Jaida, mom, dad, me!! when we are in the airports, etc. I said, this is when we adopted you honey - you remember that? And he gave us the biggest smile ever, and leaned over and hugged us both. It made us both tear up. We realize he remembered it all, and remembered what a very good thing it is. He loves us, and we look back at videos from 9 months ago, and see such an amazing change - our son has gone from a sullen, shell of a boy, to a happy, loving, bonded little kid.

We wish we had more money. We would love to go get another older child - there is something so incredibly special about watching a child understand and realize what has happened to him, and that he is happy about it. Really special :)

Not much new, really....

2008-11-19T09:53:00.001-08:00

I haven't posted here for a bit - things are all well, mostly. Jaxon is really enjoying daycare and sort of coming up with new words - he can say "bum" really well now, which might make you laugh but shows me finally he is able to use two consonant sounds in one word, instead of just saying "bu" it is now a definate, BUUUMMMM. :)

Jaida came home yesterday with a notice that she is one of this month's "perfect pets" at school, for which she is honoured with an assembly and a little stuffed toy, for being a good listener at school. She was soooo proud. She also told me a little boy put snow in her face (ggrrr). I told her to make sure she told her teacher that!

Maia continues to be on and off, happy and beautifully good one minute - but you can see her blog for all the gorey details, lol! We love her so much, but it can be challenging some days.

We are back down to Toronto in April (the 21st to 23rd) for Maia's cardiac visit (she hasn't been seen in 5 years!) and the ENT for both Jax and Jaida. We will have our Wednesday in between free, so might plan something fun?! Will see how Maia does.

I am studying my butt off for exams on December 6th - statistics and Spanish - and then just one more semester for me!! I will graduate this spring from the University of Waterloo with my degree in Social Development Studies. yeah!!!

For my reward, by awesome boss is taking the whole staff of my law office (www.girones.ca - I do the website!) to Cancun - I've got 4 days at the Riu Caribe an all inclusive resort - I will get to room with my good buddy Bernice and hang with some of my co-peeps. How cool (or rather, mucho calor!) is that? I can say that now that I am learning Spanish! Tomo el sol! (I will go suntanning!) We had a whole unit on vacacciones - I can also say, Voy a compras - I'm going shopping! And, Mi traje de bano es marron! lol! Muy bien! (Only Laura and select friends will know that!) Until next time, Hasta luego...

Way cool...

2008-11-09T18:57:00.001-08:00

Ok, so , while I love being a Canadian, I feel like our political leaders are all pretty boring, and knowing we're nice and comfy - we don't get too excited about anyone, because we know that over all, not much will change for us when the party changes... (we all have health coverage and that good stuff and that is not going to disappear). Whether you voted for B.O. or not, you gotta appreciate the inspiration and what his election stands for. It's the equivalent sort of, if Canada were to elect a Native Canadian. We have our own oppressive history (residential schools and nastiness) but not the the extent that Blacks have suffered in the US...I'm pretty impressed with the whole thing :)

I just find it amazing that political leaders inspire such great music videos and people are so moved to get behind someone. I guess I'm a bit jealous - I'd love a little excitement up here in Canada where I could get as inspired by someone as just over half the US is for BO. I could do without the Obama girl song though, it's totally stuck in Martin's head :) For now I'll watch over the border and say hey, cool you Democrats - good for you to have a turn at the wheel :) I hope he can sift through the mire he appears to be inheriting. Our local paper had an article the other day - whatever good or bad happens in the US, will spill over to the Ontario economy - so it's all good for us too. More Canadians should pay attention to American politics...Go-bama.

Halloween

2008-10-31T16:57:00.001-07:00

Video of Jaida on stage - watch for Minnie Mouse on the right...

2008-10-31T08:34:00.000-07:00

Various...

2008-10-31T07:54:00.000-07:00

Well, our trip to Toronto was a bust (see mybravemaia.blogspot.com for that update). Whatever. But I did get to visit with my good friends Michelle V. and Sherry R. and son Steven, and to meet Dr. Carter finally so that was cool :) I just got home from Jaida's school Halloween "do" an ooh too cute, she is a Minnie Mouse and was up on stage with her class dancing to Ghostbusters. I love it. The one pic is with her teacher, who I like very much. The other photo is of my good friend and long time worker for Maia, Angela, with her very cute baby Adrianna. I also couldn't resist posting this way too cool photo of Jaxon with one of our Red Cross workers who is tres cool, and shared her glasses and cap - and this other very cute photo of my kiddos with their friends...

2008-10-26T14:05:00.000-07:00

My baby's birthday.

2008-10-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

Today was the best day. We took the kids to see High School Musical 3, and then came back to enjoy a Halloween party with a coulple of good friends and a major chunk of Martin's family - including his mom and sister and her kids from out of town. It was awesome that everyone was here.

This is his "first" birthday, and we had to teach him to blow out candles on his Diego cake, and then when he opened his presents, he didn't qite realize, they were for HIM! He took the tissue out of the first bag, and then smoothed it out. It took a lot of coaxing to get him to look in the rest of the bag. And when he pulled out a jacket and realize, it was for HIM, he made this face with a look of shock, then held it up to himself to "try it on for size" and then kept pointing to himself and sying, me!! and smiling so much. It was awesome to see his reaction. Then he danced his little heart out to High School Musical 2 and made us all laugh until we almost peed himself.

Auntie Laurie will be sending photos tomorrow :)

I love my little three year old boy....sigh :) Happy and Proud mommy today.

Lysol anyone?

2008-10-17T05:51:00.003-07:00

I'm going to need to spray down the house today - both Maia and Jaida have been throwing up this week, and both Jaida and Jaxon have bad coughs. Not much sleep around here!

Nothing else new, much...we are off to Toronto soon (leaving the 27th which is Jaxon's birthday!) he'll be three - we'll let him get a cool gift at the Disney store...

Our new little Canadian Citizen!!

2008-09-23T09:09:00.000-07:00

I just checked Jaxon's citizenship status online and this is what it said:

"We received your application for Canadian citizenship (grant of citizenship) on April 9, 2008.

We started processing your application on September 5, 2008.

You became a Canadian citizen on September 16, 2008."

YEAH!!!

A small update - it's been a while - he has started daycare three mornings a week. He screams to go, but apprently has fun while I am gone and stops crying after I leave -he is just starting to put two words together - very basic ones. I think he needs to have his speech assessment shortly. Must call...

Jaida started school and LOVES it - she is such a big girl - I'm so proud of her.

Maia, well, Maia is Maia, and I am hoping for some answers when we go to Toronto again next month...

I went to Lyle and Melissa's wedding this past weekend, they are so beautiful and young and happy, sigh....my heart just burst to watch them together. It as awesome to see all my family - I HATE living so far north from everyone. My dad and Barb were up for a week and enjoyed the kids.

I am off to New York October 3rd for the big benefit!! I am so excited!! (see c22c.org) I'll post pics!

I am behind in school already, so need to go and STUDY!

Such a nice week....

2008-08-16T19:59:00.001-07:00

I have had such a great week - I have to say, how much I love all the people I am surrounded with - A wonderful, important anniversary - a great birthday - so many of my friends called me and you know what was the coolest? I had such awesome news, good feedback on our research project - selfless people going out of their way to raise money to help further somethng that has become my life's mission....important things happening in my life....and I didn't receive one material gift (My husband bought me a beautiful anniversary gift, and I told him not to buy me anything else!(except today from a friend!) - but it was probably the most memorable and best birthday ever - even though I spent the whole evening working on a newsletter...hah...but before that, all day, call after call from everyone I know! (I did ask and get a cake...lol!) seriously, I am so incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by some many amazing people...and my beautiful kids...Jaida made me a card and she traced her hand and Maia's hand inside (with the help of one of our workers)...I am going to save that one! Jaxon was sleeping so he didn't get his hand in it :) I have a lot of gifts every day.

Life is good.

We are off to Toronto tomorrow, and I hope that Jaxon's hearing is not as bad as I am suspecting, and that Maia will be free of her episodes...poor kid - she is so sweet in between these rages that over take her poor mind and body. I am anxious for October's appointments to see what we can discover - and EEG under sedation, and another psych assessment with a very prominent specialist. Keep her in your thoughts...

Happy 20th Anniversary to us!

2008-08-13T18:19:00.000-07:00

Well, despite an very young marriage (I was 2 days shy of my 18th birthday - I'll be 38 on Friday) and a lot of nay-sayers, here we are, 20 years later, and I can say, Happily Married!!

Day at the lake

2008-08-03T16:08:00.003-07:00

Well, it was beautiful today so the four of us went to the beach! The kids love the water and came home with sand in every crevice!

Little Teacher

2008-08-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

Jaida has been teaching Jax and Marty the songs she learned from school tonight. Because - it's raining, AGAIN - so we enjoyed some time in our rainarium. Can't really call it a solarium lately!

Congratulations Jaida!

2008-07-31T07:59:00.000-07:00

My baby "graduated" today from her school readiness program. It was sooo cute! She did awesome and we are sooo proud of her!! The other little blond girl is her best friend Sophie, my friend Angela's daughter!

I'm also adding some pics from their blanket tent day, and also of Jaxon wearing Mr. Potato head glasses - he walks around and giggles and poins to them, saying "eyes!!" He is our clown and makes us laugh every day.

COOL! Beijing Olympics video

2008-07-30T14:39:00.000-07:00

This video is so wonderful - we toured so many of the places they show - watch closely - these are famous Chinese people - You'll see Jackie Chan in there somewhere!

He's on the move...

2008-07-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

He gets his hat, his ball, his bag, and his xylophone, and walks around all ready to party. this kid cracks me up!

He and Jaida had a blast watching the 3D Hanna Montana concert Saturday. They kept their glasses on the whole show!

Finally, a nice day...no rain......we needed this!

2008-07-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

We decided to have true family day today - since we've both been so busy that the kids don't always get enough time with both of us together (exams in three weeks, woohoo) so we headed out to the lake this a.m, saw some ducks, took a walk, ate at McDonald's, then took the dogs for a walk to the park, and came home and played in the pool. Jaida is tuckered right out! We are having a nice bbq to finish the day. Maia is being her usual sundown self, so has missed most of it. Jaxon totally loves water, the outdoors, fun, squealing, running, smiling...Jaida loves to boss him around...but they run off together holding hands. They are so sweet together! Enjoy the pics! Great day of fun....

Weekend fun!

2008-07-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

We had a great time this weekend, visiting my family for my Aunt's weddding near Ottawa. The kids did very well, and Jaxon got to experience his first beach time - and Jaida her first wedding (Aunt Judy looks like a princess!) Jaxon was too squirmy and tired to sit through the ceremony so Marty took him for a walk...

Jax got to meet many of our family for the first time, including my Dad and his Grandma Barb - so very important weekend! We also got to see my Nanny, who is looking great at 93 - we love you Nan!

Enjoy the photos...

All of the children, snug in their beds....

2008-07-01T17:56:00.000-07:00

...because Jaida starts her "get ready for school" program tomorrow at 8:30! I think she is nervous, but she'll have to survive!!

We are anxious for our trip south Friday - when my Aunt Judy marries Vinnie - they met on a cruise when Judy went with my dad and his wife - he's from NY - and they just dated after that - imagine! How cool. I am soooo anxious to see everyone, my new cousin's baby Sarah, all my cousins and their kids, everyone! I hope the weather stays nice!

Life in general, as of today...

2008-06-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

Well, tomorrow is the first day of school holidays, and my life is pretty much up in the air after that. Mostly, referring to Maia. My wonderful babysitter is going to be giving birth on July 23rd, so it will be day by day to see how long she can manage dealing with Maia, and then I have no help until August, when I have a lady who is interested in some hours, returns from being away the month of July (I think she'll work out great, but I am not sure how many hours she is willing to do yet).

I also bit the biscuit and am taking a completely different approach for Jaxon than I did with Jaida, because he is a completely different kid and so outgoing and laid back... I registered him to start at daycare this fall - for three mornings a week - so that he gets that extra socialization and input, I can still go back to work a bit and do my last three university courses without going INSANE (I have Stats, Research and one language - either French level 2 or Spanish, I havent' decided yet) and then next April I am DONE, I am going to walk across that stage at Waterloo with pride after 7 full years of studying towards my SDS degree. All that while working, adopting 2 kids, and dealing with Maia's massive changes. I can hear my one friend yelling at me on the phone, "Stop being so friggin' Type A!" But I am driven to complete it.

I am also feeling rather petty right now as a very close friend of mine is dealing with so much cr-p that it seems like I should just be grateful all my family is healthy and wonderful.

I am also already thinking about our next conference in Niagara next summer - for C22C. I think we will get a freaking large turnout (last one was 110 ppl, so I'm REALLY scared to start counting heads right now!) but I want to fit it around a visit from my bestest soul match Julia (she is basically the British equivalent of me and I miss her desperately this year - wahhh!!) I wish that she didn't live so darn far away. I want her to be a part of this next one - and I want to do it for all the new members who want to connect. It's been since 2006 - so three years is a long time to not have one (I guess ooops- that's Jaxon's fault and school - sorry members!)

Anyways, back to work - I have a French written assignment and test due next week, before I leave for my Aunt Judy's wedding (I can't wait for my Dad and his wife and the rest of my clan, to meet my son!!!) Jax and Jaida will twirl and twist all night at the dance I am sure. I LOVE that!

By the way - I have to say that my son is like the most freaking coolest thing ever - and I am totally blown away by how AMAZING he has attached to us and how well adjusted he seems. I just LOVE him to death and Jaida too - my soul is so filled with love for these two amazing kids. Maia I love too, so deeply but it's hard to let my heart go there too often because it breaks for what she deals with some days, and the guilt I feel at not always feeling capable of parenting her..I am so glad that I have such an amazing circle of families who know what I go through each day, and I love all my C22C members. Thanks for always being there!!!!!

Special Moments

2008-06-19T13:00:00.001-07:00

This weekend while we were at the mall (we being Jaida and I on our own) the song "In my Daughter's Eyes" came on the overhead speaker in the store we were at. This is a song I used in making Jaida's adoption video. I was sort of oblivious to it, focused on finding a gift for father's day - but Jaida heard it, and said, "Hey mom?" and as I looked down, she had the sweetest smile,and pointed up towards the speakers. Not saying anything else, she just leaned in and hugged me.

I love that the video we watch over and over means something to her. I love that she understands (to the degree she can now) that she came from China and was waiting for us to go and get her. I love that she loves me, and is reminded of that, even while shopping.

Losing my baby boy already???

2008-06-18T16:55:00.000-07:00

Well, figuratively that is - last night we took down his crib and bought him a big boy bed - new mattress, new Cars comforter, sheets and pillow. At first, taking down his crib he was like, "bed???bed??" in a whiny, oh no what the heck is going on voice - but then when he saw us put up the new bed, he got in and in his limited vocabulary kept going, wow! bed! wow! cars! over and over. Tonight, he didn't even want me to lay with him a bit, like I did last night. In fact, an hour before we usually put him down, he was sitting at the bottom of the staircase, sucking his thumb, with his blankie and bear, and pointing up saying "bed?" I asked him if he wanted me to lay with him, but he shook hs head, said, NO! and then pointed downstairs and said GO!, But then gave me the sweetest smile, and kiss and then snuggled in and whispered another "wow!" to himself. He is totally in love with his bed and so at ease that he doesn't need me anymore, sob!! I've had 5 months of rocking and whimpering if I leave him before he is out for the night - but now, my big boy wants to go to bed all by himself! What a new bed and sheets and comforter does for incentive!!

What do you do when the humidex is 30ish?

2008-06-07T14:35:00.001-07:00

You buy a sprinkily pool! The kids had a blast all afternoon - it rains inside the "tree"! And on other days, you shake your coconuts! (Or do push ups off the couch if you prefer!)

Thoughts on China and "waiting children"

2008-06-02T04:58:00.000-07:00

There has recently been some discussions on a couple of email lists I belong to relating to the waiting child program from China, and the view of the WCP as whether it's a "special needs" program or not.

Some professionals insist that "all" children adopted internationally, have "special needs" - meaning they can face attachment issues, etc.

The Waiting Child Program is typically children who have a minor medical need but are otherwise healthy great kids.

There was a great debate from those parents defending their children adopted through the WCP as not having "special needs" - saying the "label" affects the idea of the program negatively - making some parents think the kids have more serious issues as well, such as developmental issues. Other parents say it does reflect that a child may have an ongoing issue that needs dealing with and that having a "label" helps that child get services more easily.

hmmm....

Being a mom to a REAL special needs kid, I wanted to jump into this discussion, but I didn't. It's not fair. I have a unique perspective. What is a special need to me is different to someone else. And it doesn't mean that the program is right for everyone. I get the desire to have a baby as young as possible, with nothing "extra" to deal with. We did do that, with Jaida.

BUT - I do want to tell anyone reading this that the Waiting Child Program really just has beautiful children who may be a bit older and who do need a bit of extra consideration - but "special needs" is a relative term. I'm not going to debate the "label" but it is truly subjective. What is special needs to one person is not to another. I think calling my son special needs is misdirected - he won't be needing any IEPs - maybe a bit of speech therapy (so did my friend's bio son, my cousin's son" - maybe a bit of surgery (anyone break anything lately?) definately braces (so did ALL of my friend's 3 kids) - but other than that - no real "special needs" that I can see - his attachment is strong - he would go to everyone when he got home, now he hides under my legs when a new person comes to the door - he knows we are his family. And I don't feel he demands any more of our parenting resources than Jaida does. Now Maia, well, she is an encyclopedia of real special needs all unto her own.

Parenting is not a book written with delicate, perfect beginnings nor romantic episodes of perfection. Any child can have challenges a parent will have to help them face. A woman I used to work with recently had her very young beautiful daughter diagnosed with a brain tumour. Devastating. Anyone has the chance to face something they have not been faced with before. It tests us as human beings. It brings out our strengths. The "waiting kids" just have something immediately obvious - manageable - and they are no less perfect nor lovable than children adopted through the regular program. I am not saying that make anyone feel badly for choosing the regular route - only to give a perspective for those who are wavering between the two.

If you are wanting to be a parent and wanting a wonderful experience - please consider the WCP. The sad stigma of the WCP for those unfamiliar with it is that these kids are "different" than the regular program and I think new parents, especially first time parents may shy away from going this route. They have minor medical considerations. But they are kids who run, dance, smile, hug you, kiss you, tell you they love you (in Chinese no less!).

My philosophy has always been "feel the fear and do it anyway" - You will find joy on the other side. E-mail me anytime to ask about adoption or the WCP. If I had the means, I'd be applying again, right now, for a little boy - I'd love a 5 year old :) Newborns are a lot more work than toddlers!!! (Gotta love the sleeping through the night, out of diapers, learning to talk right away - lots of pluses to consider in taking an older child. Jaxon's favourite words are "NO! MINE! NOW! EAT! And his new one - when music is playing - comes up to me with one arm poised in a ballroom manner - "dance?" - Beautiful.

I have more than one friend who spent more than the cost of one adoption on IVF treatments to no end. We didn't have the financial capabilities to try that route, or we might have. With my genetic condition I would have had to spend $20,000 per cycle - for the pre-genetic diagnosis as well as IVF. For our family we knew there were so many kids who are out there already that want homes. The trip to Jaida's orphanage in 2005 haunts me to this day - and still brings me to tears. There are a lot of great organizations that work in China including this one: http://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/ . If we had not have had the experiences we did, we may have been less likely to choose this route - the waiting child program - but a lot of our experiences, and research led us to the choice. I also vividly recall the adoption of a very close friend of mine growing up - she was 5, and moved in next door. She remembers me too. She's a beautiful wonderful well-adjusted person and not all children adopted at older ages have such issues.

Reading this article while making our decision was important - it discusses a lot of the arlier literature: Behavior Problems and Mental Health Referrals of International Adoptees : A Meta-analysis JAMA. 2005;293:2501-2515.

I guess I'm just feeling so incedibly fortunate this morning. My kids are both playing behind me, a dream I once thought was lost to me. China graciously gave me that dream. I spent 10 years after Maia's birth grieving the loss of my own ability to get pregnant, have a typical child. I guess I needed to go through that - but here I am - we are (because this was my husband's dream too) with our family complete. My eldest daughter would never have even made it to a waiting child list. Each one of her medical issues, heart defect, cleft palate, etc. taken on their own seemed so insignificant. We knew we could handle a child with a medical need. For us, it wasn't so scary because we had been through so much worse. I know not everyone has these same experiences, but for us, what a gift to have this child. All of our children. Look at this photo - it melts my heart. Is this a child who you wouldn't go to the ends of the earth for? He WAS a waiting child. There are so many more....and any "needs" they may have seem so insignificant when their eyes meet yours.

Chip Chip Chirrie!

2008-05-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

Pause our playlist of music to enjoy the Chipettes and CHipmunks singing to our afternoon adventures!

Just today....

2008-05-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Well, we started the day with morning exercises :) Then we made bunny crafts at Jaida's request - Jaida's turned out really cute, Jax was quite upset with the state of his and hit it several times, lol!!

Jaida practiced name writing (she can also write Dad and she is so pleased about it) Jaida then tried to take some cute pics of me, Maia and Jax on the couch - so, they are a bit off centred!

Jax likes to explore Maia's backpack when she gets home, there are often leftovers from her lunch that he tries to sneak! And then I took a bit of video of Maia in our solarium - don't let the sun fool you - it's frigging cold outside and my plants are all inside with a heater at night to keep from freezing - we've had snow overnight, followed by sun and then hail on and off all day. This was a sunny moment which was brief!

Congratulations to our friends Joan and Paul!

2008-05-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

We were at the coolest wedding last night and witnessed the long anticipated nuptuals of our good friends. We had a blast! Congrats you two!! You both looked amazing...

P.S.

2008-05-16T14:23:00.001-07:00

Jaida can write her own NAME now!!!!

Bird watching, dancing and fingers crossed

2008-05-16T13:36:00.001-07:00

Well, it's a PD day and Maia is home with us kids today - her worker's daughter has been throwing up all day - and we are wondering if all will be well to have her watch the kids tomorrow so I can go to my friend's wedding WITH Marty!! Fingers crossed....I'd hate to be dateless! The pics here were taken the other day - Marty was in the back teaching the kids how to be super quiet when the birds are eating, so we don't scare them away - Jax has his finger to his lips "shushing" like his dad - too cute. I am going to attempt to upload video of Maia up dancing today with me and Jaida, her medication seems to have kicked in and she has been doing well for the majority of this week. Fingers crossed for that too....She has decided that she wants David Archuleta to win Idol - when we watched this week, each time he would come on (the final three had three songs each) she would perk up, start going crazy and giggling, making that love struck face of a pre-teen (He is 17) and yes, I think he rocks too, so I am putting one of his latest performances here so that when Maia is in the kitchen we can watch it on the laptop....Maia's favourite thing is music...

David Cook also rocks!!

Boy oh BOY!

2008-05-13T09:17:00.000-07:00

Well, it was bound to happen - everyone at the ER on Friday said so, even the doctor. "He's a boy, you'll be back", the lady sitting across from me - "My son was in for a broken arm, my nephew broke his leg..." Another friend "We took out insurance on my son!" Well, he didn't break anything, but he did get a good bonk on his head. I left with with a sitter who has been with us for years, and warned her, "IF you take him out on the swingset, don't leave his side, he's fast!" And fast he was, and he stepped back into mid-air from the top of the slide and landed on his head. I raced home and took him to the hospital - where we held ice on his head waiting for the clearance that he didn't have a concussion. (Baysitter was quite distraught!!)

The nice admitting nurse was wearing a mask when we checked in. "There have been people in here puking with fevers" and so, indeed, three days after the incubation period, Jax woke yesterday with a 102 fever which lasted from morning until 8 last night. He tried to puke a few times, but never did - though the retching was present and he screamed and freaked out while I bathed him in cold water, fed him freezies and left him naked all day. Poor kid was soooo ill, lethargic and it was a nasty day.

Best way to get sick is to go to the hospital!!! Let's hope we stay way for a while!!

Letting go.....and letting it all in.

2008-05-10T08:20:00.000-07:00

"One loyal friend is worth ten thousand relatives."
- Euripides, Greek playwrite

I walked home last evening from a lovely dinner out with friends. I rarely get much mental space lately, but chose to walk to and from my engagement, so that I could ponder life. I walked home with a big smile on my face after a lovely evening, with a huge amount of peace as to how wonderful my life truly is. It's been a process, but I am so peaceful and happy with my life.

I have spent a great deal of time in the past having expectations of certain people, only to be let down repeatedly. I have worked through not including those type of people in my life anymore, and since then I feel so liberated. Even a recent event that normally would have triggered great irritation on my part, only brought me a realization that I have done the right thing, and I didn't get angry about it.

And that is why, walking home last night, I felt peace in the joy surrounding me - the most beautiful family; three amazing kids, one phenomenal husband of nearly 20 years, and the greatest friends, ones who call to see if I need anything, willing to drop everything to come to help if I need it, people who bring me joy. I am literally surrounded with many amazing people, people who I do not have expectations of, but who surprise me constantly with the best that humanity has to offer. I have spent a lot of my time wishing for certain people to fulfill certain roles in my life, and I have learned that I truly just need to let those people go...

As I approached my home and saw the warm lights within, knowing my three babies were sleeping, my husband waiting with a smile and a footrub (yes ladies, almost every night :), and knowing that I am a lucky person who has so much love in her life - and I cannot ask for more. Life is too short to beat your head against a brick wall, waiting for someone to see what you see, say what you want to hear, be someone they are not. Expectations like this I have come to realize only hurt myself, and why would I want to continue down that path. Mental separation is not easy, but once you get there, the pain, irritation and disappointment no longer control you. Buddhism teaches that most of our suffering is caused by attachment - things change, never remain constant, and it is only our acceptance of change and ability to not become attached, that will reduce our suffering. I have been trying hard to work on this, the second of the 4 Noble Truths. Letting things go that I feel attached to, that cause me suffering.

I would like to thank all of my friends for being amazing people - I truly value you all. You are all like family to me. And to my mother, who has become a wonderful friend, and who deserves nothing but joy in her life, thank you for being who you are. Don't change, for anyone. You are perfect just the way you are. Happy Mother's Day. (And just in case my dad reads this, I know it's not Father's day yet, but I love you dearly too :))

And for those of you who may need to let something bad go to make room for more good things, these quotes have brought me great peace:

Buddhist quote: Do not speak- unless it improves on silence. (this is one I have sworn to try to work on - biting my tongue is hard to do)

*******

Forgiving those who are not sorry is a sign of desperation.
-- J. E. Brown

You cannot insult people into liking you.
-- J. E. Brown

Beware of those who treat strangers better than family.
-- J. E. Brown

People who care about what's important to you are called friends. People who don't...are not.
-- J. E. Brown

Rudeness ends relationships.
-- J. E. Brown

It's important to have toxic people out of our lives, so that we can be fully available to the good people who need us.
-- J. E. Brown

Recent pics - enjoy!

2008-05-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

Weddings and parties and things

2008-04-26T15:22:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely evening last night with really good friends wishing Joan well on her upcoming wedding in May - yeah!!!! She looks awsome and I am anxious for her cocktail wedding!

Jaida had an amazing 4th birthday party today - see montage above!!

Maia had a massive rage again last night and we needed to sedate her again. (see her blog for all about that mybravemaia.blogspot.com

Life is awesome most times.

The irony of my life, or, "Oh woe is me" lol! Do not read if you are offended by people saying "d--n"

2008-04-21T05:33:00.000-07:00

On Friday, the last full day of my mom's visit, I had a hot stone massage booked, a gift from a good friend at Christmas. The morning of, it was cancelled because the girl was ill.

Sigh.

That night, I get a call from a local service agency asking me if I would like to join their Pamper me Day for moms of special kids. There was a cancellation. I was next out of the hat I guess. There was no way....(My mom was leaving mid-day, so I wasn't going to miss the last few hours of her visit when I only see her every few months) and Marty had to work, etc. Today's paper had a full page of photos of the happy moms getting pedicures and such.

Sigh again.

Then last night I was rocking my sweet son to sleep, and tried to move the glider away from the wall a bit. I reach my hand under to pull it forward, and shuffled forward, and got my "up yours" finger caught in the mechanism, trapped it and heard huge crunch. Appropriately, I swore and cried, holding it under cold water and then with ice for an hour. IT throbbed all night and hurts like hell. The tip is probably fractured or something, and so I type with a bit of an issue now....What an idiotic thing to do. Gliders are nasty things. Fingers under a glider in the pitch of darkness are even nastier.

Big Sigh.

It's too early today to have a glass of wine.

Huge sigh.

And now the worst part....

Maia was up laughing hysterically for an hour from 3-4 a.m. last night, and had a 1 hour rage fit last night, a continuation maybe of the two hour rage fit she had Friday night. Time for a change of meds? This depresses me. Okay, maybe not depresses, but pisses me off. Apparently rage runs in my family (I had a psychotic grandfather who passed on the tendency, and I am sure I need to fight this tendency on occassion myself, mostly due to circumstantial stuff, like oh, right, the stress of my daughter's psychosis returning. this is NOT a good thing. I am calling her ped. today)

Damn genetics. Damn seretonin/chemical imbalances and psychosis. Damn gliders. Damn bad timing.

Just damn.
I must have been nasty - there is some sneaky karma following me around.

I feel better now. Have a good day people!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nanny is here!

2008-04-17T06:34:00.001-07:00

And enjoying the kids, as they are enjoying her!

CLP Clinic, molars and aunties!

2008-04-12T18:41:00.000-07:00

We had our assessments with the team from HSC in TO, and they seemed to think J's gum line was no big deal, and really, all he will need is a bone graft when he starts to get his adult teeth, and "maybe" a lip revision when he is older, and of course, braces, but that is it!

The kid is hilarious and so happy - I still can't quite get over him! One of our meetings was in the gym area of the CTC, and they hd a basketball hoop (floor model) and a ball, and he headed right over there to try and throw it in the hoop! I had no idea that he would even know what to do with a basketball hoop - he is going to be my sporty boy!

We found out that Maia had a new molar come in, big surprise to us - her upper right side had been sore for the longest time, not eating well, but recently she has been eating so well, happy - maybe a lot of her "issues" feeding and nastiness, was a darn molar! Poor baby!! Maia has a finger infection I cannot get rid of so I got her antibiotics today.

Nanny is coming to visit Monday! We also had a nice visit from Auntie Sylvie, Nicole and Mamie on Friday - the kids love the attention :)

Sunny day!!!

2008-04-04T09:36:00.000-07:00

They are clearing up our sreets after the big snowfall, we have a parade of dump trucks, one after another, all carrying away TONS of snow. Jax and Jaida thought it was pretty cool....

The difference a day makes....

2008-04-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, March 31 - the kids are playing in light jackets in the backyard. See the nice happy photo? The snow is melting, it's plus 8, sunny, life is grand...

April 1 - Now see today's photo taken out my front window - A winter storm warning. Stuck inside, buses cancelled, kids driving me insane since they want to go out, the dogs barely wanting to go out to pee because when I open the door the snow blows in in mega gusts, and I can hear the lid to my mail box slamming up and down in the wind....

There is about a 20 degree difference in temperature from yesterday.

And this is a pic of Jax, who can open the fridge. He stands there with the door open, finger to lips and says, "hmmm...." - gee, who taught him THAT?

Earth Hour

2008-03-29T17:13:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting in the kitchen in the dark. Marty and the kids are watching hockey - yuck - so I am playing on here :)

Latest Jaida translation:

hot water bottle = tummy ache bag :)

Jaxon is saying more words - his favourite? "NO!" lol!!

Enjoy the pic - and hey, LIGHTS OUT!!!

Easter Sunday

2008-03-23T06:21:00.000-07:00

Well, the EB came and hid some eggs around the house, kids were just so AMAZED, lol!!! Chocolate before Breakfast, why sure, Mom!!!

Then we coloured and decorated eggs for lunch. Jaxon's are already cracked :) They had fun!

Nacho, Nacho Men

2008-03-23T06:02:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday we spent 5 hours at the ER because Jax's arm swelled up 2xs normal, was red and hot, down into his forearm. Apprently it was not an allergic reaction to his immunization, nor an infection - so say the doc, so , what????

We came home, and had Nachos :)

Easter Weekend

2008-03-22T08:52:00.001-07:00

Enjoy the pics - Jaida and Jax like to help daddy do renovations..... Jax was too afraid of the Easter Bunny so he didn't get in!

Good Friday....

2008-03-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

Today I trimmed my very, very, very hairy Bichon Frise. I took off a shopping bag full of hair. We also have a Shih-Tzu. My daughter says;

"Why are they different sizes?"

Well, because they are different breeds. Lilo is a Shih-Tzu, and those dogs are from China. Dogs come in all different sizes. Pixie is a different dog, She is a Bichon.

"So Pixie is a Timmins dog? That's why she's bigger?"

A Timmins Dog, lol!! Out of the mouths of babes...

Note to D- if you are reading this, then you obviously still care. Good. Call and tell me the truth. I know it already. Only then will we ever get past this...The truth won't matter to me, but the ongoing facade sure will.

The Breakfast Club

2008-03-16T05:53:00.000-07:00

While Daddy is away at a hockey tournament this weekend, we are all just chillax'in at home - all having breakfast in the kitchen. Maia thought it was quite fun, and giggled through most of breakfast. I tried to do a three way shot of me and the kids, and Jaida took the one of me and Maia together - she has a pretty good eye - considering she is not quite 4 yet!

The one of Daddy and Jaxon was taken a couple of nights ago - they like to be cute, what can I say?

Oh look, this kid is still here!

2008-03-14T05:04:00.000-07:00

LOL! Maia is a little delayed, yes, I know that, but I love her dearly. However, it's been 6 weeks, and she's really not shown tons of interest in Jaxon, until the past couple of days. Today both young'ins insisted on sitting on the bathroom counter while I braided Maia's hair (as I do each morning after her bath) and Maia was quite happy and interested in Jax, dis'ing Jaida completely in favour of touching her bro's face and trying to kiss him, despite his slight, um, hesitation as to whether it was a good thing or not, lol!! It was a moment.

Spike and Flow....

2008-03-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

That refers to hair styles of course, lol! My kids are too cute, (yes, brag, brag, proud Momma, I admit!)

Birthday Party Fun!

2008-03-10T05:51:00.001-07:00

Jaida enjoyed Sunday afternoon at Sophie's 4th birthday! Thanks so much sweetie! (And mom Angela!) Enjoy the pics.

My labour of love is done!

2008-03-08T12:30:00.000-08:00

For Maia's 13th birthday, I wanted to make her room look PHENOMENAL - so in addition to the tub and track/lift that we had installed (Thank you March of Dimes and Easter Seals!) I decided to paint it in true Maia fashion, with all the splash that I could!

Happy shiny children

2008-02-26T12:28:00.000-08:00

So far so good today at our house! We went to French circle time today and Jaxon just fit right in, trying his best to do all the actions and dance along, right in with the other kids, it was great!

I have to say how many signs he is able to do, and saying a few words, he tries really hard to copy what we are saying - he will pet the dogs and say, Soft, soft (missing the "t" sound, but still!) and he can say Hello, and Uhoh, easy little things. I can't believe how fast he picked up the signing though, very bright little guy!

Jaida has been doing better with him the past couple of days! Enjoy the pics....

Warning - construction zone AND adjustment issues in progress!

2008-02-20T12:57:00.001-08:00

Well, this morning we had Motion Specialities here installing Maia's ceiling track and lift - (Paul is the best - call them if you need one!) and it's all ready to go. We have the contractor back in the morning, and hopefully within a week the pics you see here will be replaced with an awesome Lizzie McGuire themed room :) The bathtub is in the place where Maia's old closet was....

We also took Jaxon to see the pediatrician - and he is going to do some checking before he decides which vaccinations he needs - China does not combine them the same way we do here, but we know he will need some additional ones.

It was awesome to go - our doctor is so nice and he thought Jaxon was a strong and healthy boy, and of course, a smiley and happy little guy. Made me feel so good :)

Both Jax and Jaida are napping, but Maia will be home any second...

Jaida and I sat and watched HER adoption video today when Jax went for his nap - she's been having a few difficulties with the transition now that the honeymoon stage has ended, and we are trying to make her understand how much we love her - and I think even though she's seen it dozens of times, she watched it in a new light today...and after going through all of this with Jaxon, she realizes a bit better what it means for her. She asked right away, Where's Bob? (one of the agency directors) and she saw herself being carried by dad up the Great Wall, whereas this last trip she climbed on her own, farther and higher than I was able to with Jaxon on my back...all good steps for her.

Auntie Petie and Uncle Jack stopped for a nice visit this a.m., my only family within visiting distance, so I happily made them a nice breakfast and there is something about Aunti Petie that Jax just LOVES, I mean, he even almost cried for her when she went to the bathroom! He snuggles her and doesn't want to leave her lap when she visits. Jaida sat on Uncle Jack and so I actually enjoyed my coffee this morning!

Snowy day...

2008-02-17T12:24:00.000-08:00

We're expecting 15-20 cm overnight, yuck!! Will it ever end?

Jaxon has become a little helper and loves to help empty the dishwasher - he knows where some of the dishes go, utensils and such already!!

The kids were good today, lol! Played with Play-Doh and watched movies mostly - enjoy the pics!

Chinese New Year

2008-02-10T17:19:00.000-08:00

We had a really fun celebration Saturday night with our Polar Panda group. There were dozens of beautiful girls in their lovely dresses, and a boy - just one :)

This kid is showing us how much of a sense of humour he has, and he is learning the ways of the house already, taking some scrap paper today to the garbage, putting in the bin and then closing the door behind him. He's quick - smart, and happy almost all the time. LOVING IT!!!

Love my kids...

2008-02-08T18:14:00.000-08:00

Man is this boy easy to love. He and Jaida are too sweet, I swear. How did we get so lucky?

Our first week home - and a Happy Chinese New Year!

2008-02-07T15:41:00.000-08:00

It's all going well - only a few meltdowns on ocassion but we are dealing well with them. The kids are really having fun together for the most part, which was our ultimate goal, so we are happy about that. Jaxon got to meet my Nanny and Aunt Judy today so that was special (My Nanny lives 7 hours away!). He tried Cool Whip for the first time today, and I am waaayyyy impressed with how spoon feeding has come in just a matter of days - he fed himself 2 bowls of dinner tonight practically unaided!! Time for baths now..and then to bed. Still feeling tired - will be home a week as of tomorrow! Happy Chinese New Year everyone!!

Just one of the crowd..

2008-02-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

Our little dude is fitting in just nicely. :)

Jet lag is wicked, but otherwise, all is well.

Uploaded photos from our trip to photobucket, enjoy!

Birthday Party fun!

2008-01-14T06:02:00.000-08:00

Jaida's little friend E had a birthday! We all went on a ride at Cedar Meadows! Jaida touched a moose while Daddy fed it, cool!

our family will soon be one of five....

2008-01-11T19:11:00.000-08:00

It's a week to go before we head back to China. Junlong is waiting for us. That's really the only reason I think any kids should be considered part of the waiting child program. All the kids are "waiting" and from the numerous stories I've heard, as healthy as those in the NSN program. People are being told that they will wait until 2011, if they have log in dates that are from 2006/2007. What? Is it really that important for people to get that hoped perfect scenario - I am getting a perfect scenario - just like all the other fortunate parents who went through the waiting child program. It took us less than 2 years. Would I want to wait another 3 years for a child I wouldn't love any more than the one I am getting? No way.

I already love the kid to death, some crazy parenting gene kicks in when you are told that you have a new son, whether you have met or not - not really any different than a pregnant woman loving a child she has yet to see -I just want to be a mom, those kids just need parents. We're both waiting. Makes sense to me. Follow along with us, I am committed to sharing my journey with all my kids, Maia, Jaida, Jaxon. Each one has taught me a great deal. check out Jaxon's blog, we'll be posting sometime after January 21st - our GOTCHA DAY....

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T18:48:00.000-08:00

We had a good start to 2008 by visiting family. The pics with the tree were taken at my aunt and uncle's home. Happy New Year everyone!

Holiday cheer

2007-12-29T07:43:00.000-08:00

Last night I had my annual fun time with old friend's at Joan's place. She always has significant yummy's and beverages :) Ahh.... I walked home (only like 4 blocks) in the puffy snow in the moonlight. It was incredibly quiet - serene - and the snow was glistening and looking sparkly under the street lights. I liked the walk home. It's kinda nice to be out in the world when no one else is - makes you feel very small in the universe. Good ending to a fun evening. Thanks, Joan and Paul!

Christmas Photos

2007-12-27T09:49:00.000-08:00

The girls both enjoyed all their gifts this year. Jaida was really cute about it. I am so proud of both of my girls.

Maia's metamorphosis

2007-12-19T05:02:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been following my life the past few years, you'll know that she basically went through hell (and dragged us with her) while she entered puberty.

I am happy to report that four psychiatrists and 3 medications later, she is the apple of my eye again, smiley and joyful, alert and relaxed, and I have not called for an exorcist intervention since about July of this past summer. (Hey, three hour psychotic fits count, don't they?)

I would like to publicly thank and bow down to Dr. Lefevbre for her kindness, understanding and support in trying to get things right for us. Without her, Maia would likely have been placed outside our home (aren't I horrible person?) if things got even a tad worse. (I was breaking down constantly and wondering how the hell I'd bring a new baby into our home) No, I wasn't depressed - depression is over-diagosed as far as I am concerned. I was damn ticked about something I should be damn ticked about! Heaven forbid people should show emotions - why do we need to suppress our feelings in society? What the heck is that about? Since Maia's been good, I haven't lost it once since. See, correlation does not necessarily mean causation, but heck, DUH!

I will quote the words of the first psychiatrist that we went to see. The VERY first person only - no one before, where I begged for help. "We will be putting a moratorium on medication for this young girl. I am sure Mrs. St-Pierre will continue to seek out pharmacological interventions for her daughter and I would expect we be kept informed of any such interventions as we are the only facility in the area capable of managing her should the interventions fail" .

Well Dr ---- from ---, if it weren't for that pharmacological intervention, we'd have a psychotic child on our hands, suffering needlessly - because she truly was suffering - crying, screaming hours on end, day after day, not being able to go out or do anything worthwhile, cooped up in her bedroom as miserable as hell. We have our daughter back finally and to you, I'd like to say, Merry Christmas and CHANGE YOUR IDEA ABOUT MEDICATIONS because Prozac saved my daughter's life. And thanks for making a desperate mom feel like s--- for wanting the screaming to stop. I'm not a drug seeker! I'm an answer seeker. Since I can't call you up obviously and tell you how incredibly much time you wasted in doing nothing for my daughter, I'm doing it here. Hmph! I feel so much better now. I think I was rather reserved in my vent, don't you? :) I'm just relieved we live in a country where we can get second opinions, and sure makes me realize we just need to go straight to HSC instead of wasting our time on miserable grump-heads who work in the north (that goes for rude ENTS and Eye doctors who ask if Martin and I are cousins) and think there is only one way to do things and speak condescendingly to smart educated parents (yeah, ME). Specialists!? Hmph! Bah Humbug to you all!!! (I'm just sitting here this morning, totally in love with my happy Maia and grateful she is happy again and then I get so angry at all the people who were so rude to me when I tried to get help for her and wasted a year of her life!!!!)

Going into 2008 will be sweet - nothing ahead by blue skies - over Timmins, and over China :) See you in a month, Junlong!

I believe in Santa!

2007-12-15T16:26:00.000-08:00

We had a little party for the Early Years Centre we go to, complete with a "real" Santa! Jaida says, "I LOVE Santa" she truly believes it all! She got a Dora lunch kit - I told her that I called Santa to tell him that she would like that, and she said, "Yeah? On the Phone?! COOL!" Cool is her favourite word. Cool is my favourite word. When I give Marty heck lately, she says, "What are we gonna do with that man, mom?" Echoes of ME - who the hell needs biology???

We decorated our tree last weekend - she did many of the ornaments - always saying, "I want to put them where Santa can see them." lol!

JAXON - our LOA is on it's way to our house as we speak - gotta sign it and return the same day - we leave in 34 days!!!

Enjoy the pics!

We're off to China!

2007-12-14T04:39:00.001-08:00

Well - theorectically at least - as long as our letter of approval comes from China this week (we've been told it's been sent...) we're off to China the end of January! Check out Jaxon's blog for details as we move towards the goal of family member number 5!!!

Christmas cookies.....my little baker!

2007-11-29T12:16:00.001-08:00

Fairly Literate or need to become so? Give free rice

2007-11-09T17:44:00.001-08:00

and help feed the hungry -

www.freerice.com

Cool :)

Disney in October

2007-11-08T18:58:00.001-08:00

You have to love this place. What an awesome trip we had.

Halloween

2007-11-08T18:51:00.001-08:00

I loved the girls this year, they both looked like angels!

Welcome to our new blog

2007-11-07T19:12:00.000-08:00

As I seem to be a creature of change, so too are the places I make my own on the Internet. Welcome to our new home. I wasn't sure I liked MSN Spaces....so we've moved, for now:)