As alot of you know, we had a bit of trouble settling on our daughter's name!!! Initially she was a Bella. When I was pregnant with H-Man, we decided if he was a girl, his name would be Bella. So when we started paperwork for our third child... she was going to be Bella (yes... we're a bit lazy) Anyhoo, somtime in 2007, I was doing Creche at Church - and had 3 Bella's in there!!! (2 were Isabella's and one had the middle name Bella, and it appears it's now her nickname!) Everywhere I went there were Isabellas. Now don't get me wrong - I LOVE the name ~ we must be partial, to popular names, H-Man has a popular name, so his name is always either followed by our surname or S, due to the fact there's always at least one other wherever he goes... he hates it!!! So, I convinced Mr T, that we should look at other names. She was Ruby Li for about 6 weeks... til hubs decided he wasn't good with that.
One night at a BBQ at a friend's place, we were discussing names, and she had a long list of names. (literally, a list!) Apparently, Mr T looked over my shoulder and glanced through the list and saw Tari. He whispered in my ear, "I like Tari". I said "Yeah, thats nice"... but didn't really think too much more about it.
At the Hotel we stay at in Bali, their "Spa / Treatment" Area is called "Tari Spa". Tari in Balinese means dance. I searched the baby name sites, and also found it is a Hebrew name, meaning "fresh". I told Mr T, he said "That's her name, then. She's having a "fresh" start with us!". I liked it. Later, I put Tari into a Chinese Translation site - it came up that it is a phrase. The words Ta and Ri together mean "Another Day". That just sealed the deal for me! I think its perfect. She was born on Another Day, in Another Place... but very soon we'll be a family.
Mei means Charming, Attractive, Flatter... I'm pretty bias... but gosh, she is so darn beautiful!
I thought I'd better start using her Psuedo on my blog - I'm paranoid about googlers!!! I've decided to change her Psuedo too!!! From Mini - to TINY!! :)
**EDIT: Sorry!! Didn't tell you how to pronounce it!!! Tari is pronounced ~ Tah-ree; And Mei is pronounced May**
Monday 29 December 2008
Thursday 25 December 2008
Merry Christmas ~ 2008!
Here's a Christmas Message from me... I look shocking... so maybe just close your eyes an listen?!!!
Wishing you JOY and happiness
And every dream fulfilled.
Wednesday 24 December 2008
So what happened?!!
I hear you say?!! How can I be groaning about "our lost file" then be flashing a photo of our gorgeous daughter?!!! (which, by the way, if you haven't seen... you need to scroll down).
WELLLL....
I'll start with Sunday. On Sunday, my parents arrived from interstate to stay with us for 3 weeks. One their way down, they had a call from the nursing home, Grandma was very ill and in alot of pain, they wanted to take her to hospital. She's got a septic infection, but they don't know where its coming from. Its not expected that she'll last the night, but she does. My Grandma is the strongest woman in the world!
Monday morning we got an email, from a batch member, that had contacted our agency, asking for news, as they were going on holidays on Tuesday. They were told "No files".
I went to a Christmas lunch, with some family, for a work do. My brother, came to pick up the kids, to take them to the museum... my brother has NEVER had our kids before!!! My parents were home and Mr T happened to call in home, as well... he's NEVER home early!! My bro called around 430 and asked if I could pick them up from the city, which was fine, as I wasn't far away. So I picked up the kids, and as I pulled into the driveway, I could see a note, flapping on the door. I was a bit confused, as everyone's cars were there, I wasn't sure why they'd put a note on the door. The note read:
"I love you Mummy. Come and see my photo at 2pm tomorrow. Love ???"
(just typing that has made me cry again!)
I was very confused. But as I unlocked the door to walk in, all the clues fell into place. Mr T had jumped up out of chair as I came in, I blurted out "DID THEY RING?!!" (and think I was crying before I'd finished the sentence!) He yelled "YES!!!" I just clung to my darling husband and wept like a baby!!! Oh.my.goodness. The floodgates of utter relief were opened.
Mr T, being the man that his is, did not ask any questions about the baby... just wrote down the time. You know what? I didn't care... our file was not lost!!!!
I woke up at about 330am on 23 Dec. I lay there wide awake, thinking, for about an hour and finally got up at about 430am. I had a chiro appt in the morning. Went home, made lunch for my folks and kids, and we watched a DVD. At about 110pm, we get a phone call. Grandma has passed away. I needed to go, as I had to pick up Mr T from work before going into the City. I can't stop thinking about Grandma. We arrive for our 2pm appt. We see another couple from our batch, they'd just had their interview. Hugs all round. In our interview, the first thing our (male) co-cordinator says is "So, how's your day". Mr T, looks at me and says "We just found out L's Grandma has passed away". Poor guy. He didn't know what to do!!! "OK, this is what your here for" - and he slaps our daughter on the table! I was just mesmerised! I didn't cry!!! I tried to explain it to Mr T, later - but it was like I know her, or I've seen her before. The weirdest feeling!!! So we finished our interview, we went home... and the rest is history!
Pre-baby, there were a couple of things, I thought would be nice.
1. That our baby had hair
2. That we had a young baby
You know what... when you see your baby. Nothing matters. Because your baby is hand picked just for you. I can't tell you enough, just how perfect she is.
As the saying goes "As one life ends, another begins"... truer words have never been spoken.
Rest in Peace, Grandma. Your newest Great-Granddaughter is perfect.
WELLLL....
I'll start with Sunday. On Sunday, my parents arrived from interstate to stay with us for 3 weeks. One their way down, they had a call from the nursing home, Grandma was very ill and in alot of pain, they wanted to take her to hospital. She's got a septic infection, but they don't know where its coming from. Its not expected that she'll last the night, but she does. My Grandma is the strongest woman in the world!
Monday morning we got an email, from a batch member, that had contacted our agency, asking for news, as they were going on holidays on Tuesday. They were told "No files".
I went to a Christmas lunch, with some family, for a work do. My brother, came to pick up the kids, to take them to the museum... my brother has NEVER had our kids before!!! My parents were home and Mr T happened to call in home, as well... he's NEVER home early!! My bro called around 430 and asked if I could pick them up from the city, which was fine, as I wasn't far away. So I picked up the kids, and as I pulled into the driveway, I could see a note, flapping on the door. I was a bit confused, as everyone's cars were there, I wasn't sure why they'd put a note on the door. The note read:
"I love you Mummy. Come and see my photo at 2pm tomorrow. Love ???"
(just typing that has made me cry again!)
I was very confused. But as I unlocked the door to walk in, all the clues fell into place. Mr T had jumped up out of chair as I came in, I blurted out "DID THEY RING?!!" (and think I was crying before I'd finished the sentence!) He yelled "YES!!!" I just clung to my darling husband and wept like a baby!!! Oh.my.goodness. The floodgates of utter relief were opened.
Mr T, being the man that his is, did not ask any questions about the baby... just wrote down the time. You know what? I didn't care... our file was not lost!!!!
I woke up at about 330am on 23 Dec. I lay there wide awake, thinking, for about an hour and finally got up at about 430am. I had a chiro appt in the morning. Went home, made lunch for my folks and kids, and we watched a DVD. At about 110pm, we get a phone call. Grandma has passed away. I needed to go, as I had to pick up Mr T from work before going into the City. I can't stop thinking about Grandma. We arrive for our 2pm appt. We see another couple from our batch, they'd just had their interview. Hugs all round. In our interview, the first thing our (male) co-cordinator says is "So, how's your day". Mr T, looks at me and says "We just found out L's Grandma has passed away". Poor guy. He didn't know what to do!!! "OK, this is what your here for" - and he slaps our daughter on the table! I was just mesmerised! I didn't cry!!! I tried to explain it to Mr T, later - but it was like I know her, or I've seen her before. The weirdest feeling!!! So we finished our interview, we went home... and the rest is history!
Pre-baby, there were a couple of things, I thought would be nice.
1. That our baby had hair
2. That we had a young baby
You know what... when you see your baby. Nothing matters. Because your baby is hand picked just for you. I can't tell you enough, just how perfect she is.
As the saying goes "As one life ends, another begins"... truer words have never been spoken.
Rest in Peace, Grandma. Your newest Great-Granddaughter is perfect.
Tuesday 23 December 2008
Dreams DO come true...
Absolutely in love!
Look at that sweet little face!!!
Our sweet Daughter, is almost 15 months old.
She was born in the year of the Golden Pig (just like her Daddy!), in PingYuan County, Guangdong, China.
We hope to travel early-mid Feb 2009.
WOOHOO!!!
Monday 22 December 2008
Thanks
Thanks for all your kind thoughts. It has not been any comment, that has me upset and frustrated!!!
I had to apologise to my poor mother, who was trying to give me some "Godly" encouragement, and I totally shot her down, screamed and did the "ugly" cry, over the phone!!! I later said to Mum... "When I'm that upset... pleeeease for everyone's sake... just agree that they're all sh!theads!!!" I've been a Christian for a veeeery long time. I know that God loves me, and wants the best for me! But hearing about "God's will" in a time of anguish certainly isn't going to settle my emotions!!!
Anyway, I did manage to laugh on the weekend, and have some good times with good friends. My folks arrived from interstate yesterday, to stay for 3 weeks. And my younger bro announced his engagement! Unfortunately, late yesterday afternoon, we heard that Grandma was rushed to hospital. The Dr didn't think Grandma would make it through the night, but we never got a call, so it appears she's still with us. I adore my Grandma. But its been heartbreaking see her quick and steady decline over the last 6 weeks. We found out last week, that not only has her Alzheimers advanced, but she'd had a minor stroke and has leukemia, as well. I saw her Friday; I'm not even really sure she knew who I was. She'd lost the capacity to speak.
I can only say, it's been one of the most emotional weeks of my life. So to finish, I'll leave you with a line from my favourite Chumbawumba song
I had to apologise to my poor mother, who was trying to give me some "Godly" encouragement, and I totally shot her down, screamed and did the "ugly" cry, over the phone!!! I later said to Mum... "When I'm that upset... pleeeease for everyone's sake... just agree that they're all sh!theads!!!" I've been a Christian for a veeeery long time. I know that God loves me, and wants the best for me! But hearing about "God's will" in a time of anguish certainly isn't going to settle my emotions!!!
Anyway, I did manage to laugh on the weekend, and have some good times with good friends. My folks arrived from interstate yesterday, to stay for 3 weeks. And my younger bro announced his engagement! Unfortunately, late yesterday afternoon, we heard that Grandma was rushed to hospital. The Dr didn't think Grandma would make it through the night, but we never got a call, so it appears she's still with us. I adore my Grandma. But its been heartbreaking see her quick and steady decline over the last 6 weeks. We found out last week, that not only has her Alzheimers advanced, but she'd had a minor stroke and has leukemia, as well. I saw her Friday; I'm not even really sure she knew who I was. She'd lost the capacity to speak.
I can only say, it's been one of the most emotional weeks of my life. So to finish, I'll leave you with a line from my favourite Chumbawumba song
"I get knocked down... but I get up again... you're never gonna keep me down".
Saturday 20 December 2008
Murphys Law
As you know, Murphys Law, plagues me.
Well, it has struck once again... with the "non-arrival" of our allocations. No one knows anything. We've had 2 "just be paitent, it'll all be fine" emails, coming from our agency. And sentences like "we have to respect the country that has opened their doors to adoption, and wait til they contact us".
Don't give me pity, and don't you dare say "it'll all happen at the right time or in God's time etc etc"... I don't blame God, I don't doubt His power... I blame incompetent people.
So, don't bother checking back to see "the joy of our lives", as I doubt we'll be seeing or hearing anything til well within the new year.... that is if they ever find our file (which cc^^ has reassured our agency, it has not lost)
Whatever.
Well, it has struck once again... with the "non-arrival" of our allocations. No one knows anything. We've had 2 "just be paitent, it'll all be fine" emails, coming from our agency. And sentences like "we have to respect the country that has opened their doors to adoption, and wait til they contact us".
Don't give me pity, and don't you dare say "it'll all happen at the right time or in God's time etc etc"... I don't blame God, I don't doubt His power... I blame incompetent people.
So, don't bother checking back to see "the joy of our lives", as I doubt we'll be seeing or hearing anything til well within the new year.... that is if they ever find our file (which cc^^ has reassured our agency, it has not lost)
Whatever.
Friday 19 December 2008
Thursday 18 December 2008
Lost?
It appears that our files have not reached our agency.
I'm beyond devasted.
I'm sure you are all sending good thoughts and prayers... but I just want to be left alone.
Yeah, its rude. But I just can't deal with anything at the moment.
I'm beyond devasted.
I'm sure you are all sending good thoughts and prayers... but I just want to be left alone.
Yeah, its rude. But I just can't deal with anything at the moment.
Wednesday 17 December 2008
Comment
This comment was left on my blog yesterday:
Hi This is Rocío from Spain. I dont know if I can help you or not but what i do know is that in Spain many families are frustating like you. The reason is that it has been a mistake in the addreses of the referals. English referals went to Spain and Spanish referals to England. what did they do with them? England and Spain sent them back to ¨China. Now families ( not all of them only some) are still waiting to get the referals. Sorry for my english.
Maybe our file went to Spain too?!! I've never been to Spain... now I can say I've been to Spain, on paper?!!!
Ahhh... I crack myself up.... if I don't laugh, I'm going to friggin' weep.
**EDIT AT 646PM** No News. You're all very sweet! And there was definitely a resounding "What's your agency saying"... well here in Australia, our Govt Agency has "protocol" that prevents them from even telling if the files are here (apparently!) Drives us all crazy, but I've emailed, and I get the same answer "We'll ring, approx 24 hours after your file is translated and Govt Approved". So - after a busy work day today - I've decided that we've all been couped up in the house, waiting for a telephone call, long enough - and we'll either hit the beach, or the pool tomorrow! Yay!! I'm sorry... our life has been put on hold, long enough... I'm taking my kids out for some FUN!!
If you're not following Shannon in China... you should!!! Ellie is such a honey!!
Hi This is Rocío from Spain. I dont know if I can help you or not but what i do know is that in Spain many families are frustating like you. The reason is that it has been a mistake in the addreses of the referals. English referals went to Spain and Spanish referals to England. what did they do with them? England and Spain sent them back to ¨China. Now families ( not all of them only some) are still waiting to get the referals. Sorry for my english.
Maybe our file went to Spain too?!! I've never been to Spain... now I can say I've been to Spain, on paper?!!!
Ahhh... I crack myself up.... if I don't laugh, I'm going to friggin' weep.
**EDIT AT 646PM** No News. You're all very sweet! And there was definitely a resounding "What's your agency saying"... well here in Australia, our Govt Agency has "protocol" that prevents them from even telling if the files are here (apparently!) Drives us all crazy, but I've emailed, and I get the same answer "We'll ring, approx 24 hours after your file is translated and Govt Approved". So - after a busy work day today - I've decided that we've all been couped up in the house, waiting for a telephone call, long enough - and we'll either hit the beach, or the pool tomorrow! Yay!! I'm sorry... our life has been put on hold, long enough... I'm taking my kids out for some FUN!!
If you're not following Shannon in China... you should!!! Ellie is such a honey!!
Tuesday 16 December 2008
Monday 15 December 2008
Sing it Guy!
*EDIT:* Well... it's 4:44pm... I think we can safely assume, we will not be hearing anything today. I'm completely bummed. WHAT IS TAKING SO FLIPPIN LONG?!!! It's the friggin 15th for pete sake!!! I've now starting having horrible thoughts, that they got our LID wrong, and we WON'T be seeing Mini before Christmas? I'm sure our family and friends think we're complete dipsticks. First I told them, we'd know the first week of the month. Nope. No-one heard anything til about 10th of Dec. So then I'm telling people, late in the week - or early the following week... still nothing. I swear, its the whole uncertainity that is making me feel ill.... I just wish we SOME information? Tasmania has received their allocations... as far as I know New South Wales is still waiting, like us. Could our LID be wrong?
Sunday 14 December 2008
Awwww...
She's not mine... but oh my gosh - isn't she just the sweetest little girl?!!
Jen, and I have been emailing each other, like mad things the last couple of weeks!!! It was so frustrating how long it took for the allocations to actually arrive!
I thank God for my 11yr old daughter... who manages to give ME a reality check!!! I told her about my email from our Agency, saying it will be next week... I was all sad, coz it's ANOTHER WEEK!!! Miss M says "ITS NEXT WEEK!!! IT'S REALLY HAPPENING, NEXT WEEK!!!"
Glass half full?!!
In my spare time today, I whipped up our "Corporate" Christmas card... and decided to do a family one too! There's a spare elf... just picture that one with a beautiful asian face!
....Hopefully we'll hear something Mon... or Tues?
Jen, and I have been emailing each other, like mad things the last couple of weeks!!! It was so frustrating how long it took for the allocations to actually arrive!
I thank God for my 11yr old daughter... who manages to give ME a reality check!!! I told her about my email from our Agency, saying it will be next week... I was all sad, coz it's ANOTHER WEEK!!! Miss M says "ITS NEXT WEEK!!! IT'S REALLY HAPPENING, NEXT WEEK!!!"
Glass half full?!!
In my spare time today, I whipped up our "Corporate" Christmas card... and decided to do a family one too! There's a spare elf... just picture that one with a beautiful asian face!
....Hopefully we'll hear something Mon... or Tues?
Friday 12 December 2008
News without being News!!
I sent an email to our co-ordinator... just couldn't help it! To ask if our files had arrived. I got quite a cryptic email back.
But the bottom line is - we won't hear anything til next week :(
What's another 3 days, when you've waited 4 years?!!
The anticpation is killin' me!!!
I put my "waiting" page back up... only coz I'm "dead sexy"... and you may as well look at something gorgeous while you wait, right?!!!
Thursday 11 December 2008
No news... don't get too excited!!!
Thought this was too cute, not to post! Awww... Miss M was so adorable when she was a wee girl!!! Now she's a tall, "too smart for her own good" 11 yr old!!! She's still an angel... just bigger!
Wednesday 10 December 2008
Rollacoasta
This rollacoasta is really making me feel sick!!!
I swear, I've never gone through so many different emotions in one day!
This link, says that CCa@ have actually changed their box to the 23rd Feb?
I truly feel sick! Is that normal?!! I guess it is for me... I have been known to lose my lunch in awe of greatness?!!!
Thank you so much for the emails of Congratulations (already!!)... but remember, IF they got our LID correct, our Agency still won't ring us for about a week after most of the US folks get their allocations... so no hounding me, OK?!! TRUST ME... YOU WILL KNOW WHEN I KNOW!!!
Moving right along from the chuck bucket, to the friendship bouquet. My dear dear friend - my heart is crushed for you. For goodness sake - didn't the "powers that be" in China, know, that we had a date in China?!! This process will send you "quackers" if you're not careful! (((HUGE HUGS))) to you ~ I'm thinking of you.
I swear, I've never gone through so many different emotions in one day!
This link, says that CCa@ have actually changed their box to the 23rd Feb?
I truly feel sick! Is that normal?!! I guess it is for me... I have been known to lose my lunch in awe of greatness?!!!
Thank you so much for the emails of Congratulations (already!!)... but remember, IF they got our LID correct, our Agency still won't ring us for about a week after most of the US folks get their allocations... so no hounding me, OK?!! TRUST ME... YOU WILL KNOW WHEN I KNOW!!!
Moving right along from the chuck bucket, to the friendship bouquet. My dear dear friend - my heart is crushed for you. For goodness sake - didn't the "powers that be" in China, know, that we had a date in China?!! This process will send you "quackers" if you're not careful! (((HUGE HUGS))) to you ~ I'm thinking of you.
Finished!
... my Christmas shopping!
YAY! I have done absolutely everyone! I will buy a couple of boxes of chocolates to stash in the cupboard, just in case I forgot someone... but otherwise, I'm DONE!
The being DONE thing... kinda goes for alot going on in my life right now. "I'm sooo OVER IT"! Is every second sentence!!!
I detest being grumpy, mad and frustrated. It's not me... but unfortunately, its pretty much what's being going on for the last month or so. To make matters worse, this is sposed to be one of the most exciting and happiest times of my life!!! Circumstances are just so overwhelming at the moment.
These are for ME ~ but I thought I'd share, coz I'm sure there are plenty of others, who feel they have lost their joy.
**Romans 12:12
"rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer"
**Psalm 27:14
"Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!"
YAY! I have done absolutely everyone! I will buy a couple of boxes of chocolates to stash in the cupboard, just in case I forgot someone... but otherwise, I'm DONE!
The being DONE thing... kinda goes for alot going on in my life right now. "I'm sooo OVER IT"! Is every second sentence!!!
I detest being grumpy, mad and frustrated. It's not me... but unfortunately, its pretty much what's being going on for the last month or so. To make matters worse, this is sposed to be one of the most exciting and happiest times of my life!!! Circumstances are just so overwhelming at the moment.
These are for ME ~ but I thought I'd share, coz I'm sure there are plenty of others, who feel they have lost their joy.
**Romans 12:12
"rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer"
**Psalm 27:14
"Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!"
Tuesday 9 December 2008
Busy Schedule
I'm taking a super quick break from our hectic schedule this week to report on a couple of things I've heard.
First - It appears CCA@ will allocate up til 23 Feb 2006.... which means we're in! Still not convinced til I get that call... last month the rumours were sposed to bring about a 20th Feb cut off... that didn't happen, and it wasn't confirmed til about 2 days after people received their allocations.
Secondly - Apparently, its been confirmed by several US agencies that as of 1st Jan 2009, the orphanage donation will increase from US$3,000 to CNY35,000 which = AUS$7,735
I can't tell you how p!ssed off I am. How can they do that? Jack the donation up by over US$2,000 and we're sposed to come up with that in a month?!!! I know we can do it. We will beg borrow and steal to get it... but it's beside the point. SURELY, it would be a friggin' courtesy to give families at least 12 months notice on such a huge increase? It's almost double what it was before.
I need a friggin stiff drink, let me tell ya!
Where's that coffee.
The kids finish school, for the year on Thurs, then we have 6 weeks of blissful holidays! Yay!
**EDIT: I've just come home from the kid's "Presentation Night". Each child is awarded a Character Trait Certificate. I just love this night. I love to see, what our teachers have seen in our children all year.
Miss M received "Ingenuity" ~ Inventive talent for making and doing things; lateral thinking.
H-Man recieved "Sincerity" ~ The quality or state of being sincere; honest of mind; free from hypocrisy. Honest unaffectedness, lack of pretension.
(Oh yeah, and my son is DEFINITELY MY son. He puked about 2 mins. before he went up to receive his certificate. That's my boy!!!)**
A short message to Mr Stork:
WINGS UP.... WINGS DOWN....REPEAT
First - It appears CCA@ will allocate up til 23 Feb 2006.... which means we're in! Still not convinced til I get that call... last month the rumours were sposed to bring about a 20th Feb cut off... that didn't happen, and it wasn't confirmed til about 2 days after people received their allocations.
Secondly - Apparently, its been confirmed by several US agencies that as of 1st Jan 2009, the orphanage donation will increase from US$3,000 to CNY35,000 which = AUS$7,735
I can't tell you how p!ssed off I am. How can they do that? Jack the donation up by over US$2,000 and we're sposed to come up with that in a month?!!! I know we can do it. We will beg borrow and steal to get it... but it's beside the point. SURELY, it would be a friggin' courtesy to give families at least 12 months notice on such a huge increase? It's almost double what it was before.
I need a friggin stiff drink, let me tell ya!
Where's that coffee.
The kids finish school, for the year on Thurs, then we have 6 weeks of blissful holidays! Yay!
**EDIT: I've just come home from the kid's "Presentation Night". Each child is awarded a Character Trait Certificate. I just love this night. I love to see, what our teachers have seen in our children all year.
Miss M received "Ingenuity" ~ Inventive talent for making and doing things; lateral thinking.
H-Man recieved "Sincerity" ~ The quality or state of being sincere; honest of mind; free from hypocrisy. Honest unaffectedness, lack of pretension.
(Oh yeah, and my son is DEFINITELY MY son. He puked about 2 mins. before he went up to receive his certificate. That's my boy!!!)**
A short message to Mr Stork:
WINGS UP.... WINGS DOWN....REPEAT
Saturday 6 December 2008
Believe
I absolutely adore this kit ~ and what's more it was FREE!
If you're into digital scrapbooking... you MUST check out their blogs!
STORK - MISSING IN ACTION?!
... looks like I'll sleep this weekend, there's no news... anywhere!!! I hope the stork didn't get sucked into an aeroplane jet, or something?!! Maybe he flew via Bermuda, and got lost?!!
While I wait, I scrap... and since I don't have pictures of a beautiful Asian child to post ~ you'll have to make do with these!
PS. Thanks for all the offers of "naked serranades"... captured on film, to boot! ....but, uh, I hope you don't mind... but you can keep your naked videos to yourself!!! If we're not in... you can all donate $10 to Kris's w.ii or - half the sky! Yeah, I'm a cow - you'll all be suffering because they got through a pathetic amount of files PLUS your hip pocket will hurt too!!! ;)
Friday 5 December 2008
Nudda...
I don't really have any new news, but thought I'd give you all a quick "Adoption Protocol Rundown - Australia Style"!!!
First up, I did email my agency yesterday, begging for a call when the files arrive, and did get a response - it's not going to happen! Our agency is very thorough - and our file must be approved by the agency first, before they ring us... otherwise its not "ethical". I was a bit bummed... but hey, what can you do?
Here's our process:
* Send in an "expression of interest" - basically noting preferences for child's sex, age & country
*Go to an information session
* Go to a weekend "educational" - get all learned up on racism, different countries, prodecures
* Do homestudy - they like to do it over 3 visits - ours did it in one, thank the Lord, as she didn't write our report for 3 months
* Do police checks, medicals and financial reports from accountant
* Put file together - include photos and other official paperwork
* Submit file, file then goes before a review board, to be approved and registered with our Govt
* File is sent to China, once there are at least 4 family files
* Wait. No ringing agency, no ringing China. Just wait.
* Registration last for 3 years - so its highly likely you'll need to re-register. (re-do police checks, medicals and update finances)
* Finally, after several years of waiting, you'll get a phonecall! (that is, as long as you're not in the old folks home yet!!!) The phone call comes, once the file has been translated and approved.
* Make appointment to go into agency to go through file
* Hold file for 48 hours before agency will accept decision
* Acceptance, or non-acceptance is sent straight back to China
* Agency contacts Australian Consulate, makes appointment - then all other travel arrangements work 2 weeks forward from that date
* Book flights, and all other arrangements are made by a Travel Service in China
* GO TO CHINA!!
* FINALLY GET TO HOLD CHILD!!!
.... live happily ever after!!
Yes, I stopped after "get child!" There is more official stuff after that... but who cares - you have the child, right?!!!
So, in light of our procedures - I'm guess-timating that the files will arrive either today (Fri) or Mon-Tues, next week. I'm thinking we'll get a phone call next Friday? The kids will be off school then, and I was just thinking - how exciting it will be that we'll be all together as a family when we see our Mini. (once US referrals start rolling in, I think we'll be approx. a week after that)
Of course... all this is purely speculation - we don't know when the cut-off is. I'm assuming. (Mr T always tells me, not to assume... it makes an ASS outta U and ME!!!)
I hope I'm not an ass.
First up, I did email my agency yesterday, begging for a call when the files arrive, and did get a response - it's not going to happen! Our agency is very thorough - and our file must be approved by the agency first, before they ring us... otherwise its not "ethical". I was a bit bummed... but hey, what can you do?
Here's our process:
* Send in an "expression of interest" - basically noting preferences for child's sex, age & country
*Go to an information session
* Go to a weekend "educational" - get all learned up on racism, different countries, prodecures
* Do homestudy - they like to do it over 3 visits - ours did it in one, thank the Lord, as she didn't write our report for 3 months
* Do police checks, medicals and financial reports from accountant
* Put file together - include photos and other official paperwork
* Submit file, file then goes before a review board, to be approved and registered with our Govt
* File is sent to China, once there are at least 4 family files
* Wait. No ringing agency, no ringing China. Just wait.
* Registration last for 3 years - so its highly likely you'll need to re-register. (re-do police checks, medicals and update finances)
* Finally, after several years of waiting, you'll get a phonecall! (that is, as long as you're not in the old folks home yet!!!) The phone call comes, once the file has been translated and approved.
* Make appointment to go into agency to go through file
* Hold file for 48 hours before agency will accept decision
* Acceptance, or non-acceptance is sent straight back to China
* Agency contacts Australian Consulate, makes appointment - then all other travel arrangements work 2 weeks forward from that date
* Book flights, and all other arrangements are made by a Travel Service in China
* GO TO CHINA!!
* FINALLY GET TO HOLD CHILD!!!
.... live happily ever after!!
Yes, I stopped after "get child!" There is more official stuff after that... but who cares - you have the child, right?!!!
So, in light of our procedures - I'm guess-timating that the files will arrive either today (Fri) or Mon-Tues, next week. I'm thinking we'll get a phone call next Friday? The kids will be off school then, and I was just thinking - how exciting it will be that we'll be all together as a family when we see our Mini. (once US referrals start rolling in, I think we'll be approx. a week after that)
Of course... all this is purely speculation - we don't know when the cut-off is. I'm assuming. (Mr T always tells me, not to assume... it makes an ASS outta U and ME!!!)
I hope I'm not an ass.
Thursday 4 December 2008
I think I'm gonna pee my pants!!!
Rumour has it...
According to a North American agency, the 23rd is in.
It is not clear at this point whether they are just saying their people with LID’s of the 23rd are included and farther out dates may be included but they wouldn’t know about that since they only have information pertaining to their clients… or whether the actual cut off is the 23rd.
At this point I’ll give it a high R3 that the 23rd is included, but I’m not making a statement about the cut off just yet.
I think I'm gonna puke! No wait, I'm gonna pass out! No! I don't know what I'm gonna do!!! For those of you, who are only just visiting for the first time... our LOG IN DATE IS 22 FEB 2006!!!
The Blond!e song "Call Me" was on the radio this morning... I think it was a sign?!!!
OH.MY.GOD!! (I'm sorry... the shock is still settling in!) ARE WE IN? AFTER FOUR LOOOONG YEARS?
OH.MY.GOD!!!
(just had to add another!)
This is an atrocious post, isn't it? I feel like a cat on speed!!!
According to a North American agency, the 23rd is in.
It is not clear at this point whether they are just saying their people with LID’s of the 23rd are included and farther out dates may be included but they wouldn’t know about that since they only have information pertaining to their clients… or whether the actual cut off is the 23rd.
At this point I’ll give it a high R3 that the 23rd is included, but I’m not making a statement about the cut off just yet.
I think I'm gonna puke! No wait, I'm gonna pass out! No! I don't know what I'm gonna do!!! For those of you, who are only just visiting for the first time... our LOG IN DATE IS 22 FEB 2006!!!
The Blond!e song "Call Me" was on the radio this morning... I think it was a sign?!!!
OH.MY.GOD!! (I'm sorry... the shock is still settling in!) ARE WE IN? AFTER FOUR LOOOONG YEARS?
OH.MY.GOD!!!
(just had to add another!)
This is an atrocious post, isn't it? I feel like a cat on speed!!!
Tuesday 2 December 2008
Santa delivers... early!
My prayers were answered and this arrived from the North Pole, via an Ohio Angel today!
I shant mention the gorgeous Angel's name... heaven forbid, someone might send her some hate mail because she hasn't sent every person adopting from China, such an extravagant gift! The Angel knows who she is - and may she be blessed beyond her belief! (sorry Angel, my kids were so excited they opened it up, and were making sandwiches all the way home in the car! The gift is loved already!!)
Thank you so, so much, my Angelic Friend - your generosity has me (almost!) speechless!!! Your gift is more than cute little wooden sandwich pieces... it's thoughtfulness, kindness and generosity! I can't thank you enough!!!
Moving on from gorgeous gifts to the very important topic of...
DEODERANT!
I don't know what is going on! I've used the same deoderant for about 3 years - and loved it. It works like a charm... til the last month or so.... I smell!!!! What's with that?!!! Does anyone else out there, think that your body "gets used to" certain products? Or do you think the cosmetic companies, make their products all "super-duper" when they first release them, and slowly start making packaging smaller, and use less quality ingredients?
Oooo the "deoderant" conspiracy!!! No-one can say they don't get a "meaty" read, about the "real issues" on this blog?!!!
...And just because I can't stay mad at him for too long...
And because there's no show without Punch (or this case, Chewy!)...
Monday 1 December 2008
Can't sleep
Its almost midnight, and I don't feel the least bit tired! (**damn it! why did I have 2 coffees after dinner?!!**) So here I sit, sipping peppermint tea, and eating chocolate!
Whilst riding my caffeine high, all I can think about is that little asian face... in our file. I envisage the file, flying across the sea, and into our Agency. I see, the Co-ordinator opening the file, and looking at the little face, and reading the information. He picks up the phone, and dials my number. I pick up the phone, not knowing who the unidentified caller is. I squeal when he announces who it is! He tells me, our file is in. I can't breath. I blurt out, "is it a girl?" He says "yes, but you must come in to see the file!". Feeling like I'm going to chuck (**Great Wall revisited!**), I fumble to ring Mr T. He is emotional. We ring our parents ~ more emotion! Two hours later, we sit opposite our co-ordinator, who with a grin from ear-to-ear, opens our file infront of us. For the first time, our eyes set upon the face of our daughter. My face screws up, in that contorted, ugly way, that it does, when I'm trying not to cry. She is our daughter.
That's where my day-dreaming (at night!) is up too! I don't have a clue what is going to happen... or when, for that matter. A friend thinks files won't be out for another week. I hope it is sooner - but I think I've prepared my heart for next month, anyway. For all the March (and after!) people... I certainly hope that's not the case - coz the longer it is for me; the longer it is for you.
Whilst riding my caffeine high, all I can think about is that little asian face... in our file. I envisage the file, flying across the sea, and into our Agency. I see, the Co-ordinator opening the file, and looking at the little face, and reading the information. He picks up the phone, and dials my number. I pick up the phone, not knowing who the unidentified caller is. I squeal when he announces who it is! He tells me, our file is in. I can't breath. I blurt out, "is it a girl?" He says "yes, but you must come in to see the file!". Feeling like I'm going to chuck (**Great Wall revisited!**), I fumble to ring Mr T. He is emotional. We ring our parents ~ more emotion! Two hours later, we sit opposite our co-ordinator, who with a grin from ear-to-ear, opens our file infront of us. For the first time, our eyes set upon the face of our daughter. My face screws up, in that contorted, ugly way, that it does, when I'm trying not to cry. She is our daughter.
That's where my day-dreaming (at night!) is up too! I don't have a clue what is going to happen... or when, for that matter. A friend thinks files won't be out for another week. I hope it is sooner - but I think I've prepared my heart for next month, anyway. For all the March (and after!) people... I certainly hope that's not the case - coz the longer it is for me; the longer it is for you.
Friday 28 November 2008
Photo in last post
No-one commented on the weird looking stockings hanging on the line?!! You are all so polite!
The photo says:
Milo: "I'm a really naughty boy, and I keep pulling Mummy's washing off the line, and then I play tug-of-war with it, with my mate Chewy. When we finish playing tug-of-war, I chew it up - I really like to chew the buttons off and I really like to eat zips too. I forgot to mention... I only like my Mummy's clothes, and I'm very choosy - they have to be as new as possible."
Chewy: "I had nothing to do with it - it was all Milo... now let me in!"
Mummy: (who is behind the camera) "Milo - I'm ready to take you to the pound. I've had enough. You've eaten at least $300 worth of my clothes in the last 2 weeks. At least Chewy only used to eat my undies".
Daddy: (who is nowhere to be seen, but offers this advice) "Hang balloons off the clothes line, put some pepper or chilli sauce in them - when he bites the balloon - it'll pop and he'll be covered in spicy stuff - and the noise will scare him - he won't do it again".
I was spying on Milo from H-man's bedroom window, when my friend rang and offered this advice- Milo was trying to bite the balloon, but it was too big and kept floating up when he tried. She said, put the balloon in the end of a stocking, that way he'll pull it off the line, bite it.... ending in desired result.
RESULT: Milo pulled both stockings off the line, bit both of them - chewed up the stocking, licked up every last drop of the chilli sauce. He's just dumb. He'll keep pulling my clothes off the line - got any suggestions? (other than Mr T's who said to put the dogs in the shed, when washing is on the line... they'll be in there for weeks!!!!)
The photo says:
Milo: "I'm a really naughty boy, and I keep pulling Mummy's washing off the line, and then I play tug-of-war with it, with my mate Chewy. When we finish playing tug-of-war, I chew it up - I really like to chew the buttons off and I really like to eat zips too. I forgot to mention... I only like my Mummy's clothes, and I'm very choosy - they have to be as new as possible."
Chewy: "I had nothing to do with it - it was all Milo... now let me in!"
Mummy: (who is behind the camera) "Milo - I'm ready to take you to the pound. I've had enough. You've eaten at least $300 worth of my clothes in the last 2 weeks. At least Chewy only used to eat my undies".
Daddy: (who is nowhere to be seen, but offers this advice) "Hang balloons off the clothes line, put some pepper or chilli sauce in them - when he bites the balloon - it'll pop and he'll be covered in spicy stuff - and the noise will scare him - he won't do it again".
I was spying on Milo from H-man's bedroom window, when my friend rang and offered this advice- Milo was trying to bite the balloon, but it was too big and kept floating up when he tried. She said, put the balloon in the end of a stocking, that way he'll pull it off the line, bite it.... ending in desired result.
RESULT: Milo pulled both stockings off the line, bit both of them - chewed up the stocking, licked up every last drop of the chilli sauce. He's just dumb. He'll keep pulling my clothes off the line - got any suggestions? (other than Mr T's who said to put the dogs in the shed, when washing is on the line... they'll be in there for weeks!!!!)
Wednesday 26 November 2008
New Poll!
H-man asked me today when it was Christmas - I said 30 days (its actually only 29!)... it got me thinking... geez.... it's the end of the month.... and what comes out at the end of the month? (besides new grey hairs, desperately needing hairdresser attention?!)
REFERRALS!
Or allocations as they are usually referred to here in Oz. I sneaked a peak at RQ. She's saying it's likely they'll get to 23rd (doesn't get a rating though, as it's pretty much guess work!). I'm still not banking on it... we'll see. I went to post a comment, to thank RQ for her great work, when I read the last comment...
"We got our referral today!!! Baby Girl, under 1 *expedited SN*"
My stomach flip-flopped... if SN referrals are appearing, one would think the NSN wouldn't be far away?!!
Its been 4 years and 2 months, since we began this journey...
It seems so surreal that this leg of the journey could finally be over... and the real journey is about to begin!
**New poll**
So tell me... What are your guesses for our wee one?!
* Province?
* Male or Female?
* Age?
(leave your answer in Comments... if you comment as "Anonymous" - make sure you put your name at the end of your comment so I know who you are!!!)
My Guesses are:
* Guangdong
* Female
* 10 months
REFERRALS!
Or allocations as they are usually referred to here in Oz. I sneaked a peak at RQ. She's saying it's likely they'll get to 23rd (doesn't get a rating though, as it's pretty much guess work!). I'm still not banking on it... we'll see. I went to post a comment, to thank RQ for her great work, when I read the last comment...
"We got our referral today!!! Baby Girl, under 1 *expedited SN*"
My stomach flip-flopped... if SN referrals are appearing, one would think the NSN wouldn't be far away?!!
Its been 4 years and 2 months, since we began this journey...
It seems so surreal that this leg of the journey could finally be over... and the real journey is about to begin!
**New poll**
So tell me... What are your guesses for our wee one?!
* Province?
* Male or Female?
* Age?
(leave your answer in Comments... if you comment as "Anonymous" - make sure you put your name at the end of your comment so I know who you are!!!)
My Guesses are:
* Guangdong
* Female
* 10 months
Finally - they say a picture says a thousand words... what do you think this picture is saying?
Sunday 23 November 2008
Funny Story
When I was reading PIPO's blog, she said she was trying to learn some Chinese, and hoped she wouldn't offend anyone with her Chinese, when in China! Well, that brought a very funny story to my mind, which I don't think I've shared here, before.
Picture this:
We're in China. (In Xi'An) We went to have dinner at a local restaurant. NO-ONE in the restaurant spoke English. So there was lots of gestures and pointing to pictures! The waitress pulls out the chair, and motions for me to sit. I sit, H-man sits next to me. Mr T was taking off his jacket or something, and didn't see the waitress come round behind him. Mr T, instinctive pats Miss M on the bottom and says to sit down. He was highly embarrassed to find, he'd patted the waitress on the bottom!!! He then proceeds to say "Xi Xi" (thinking he said sorry).
He actually said "thank you".
So not only did he "touch her up"... he then thanked her for the pleasure!!!!
Picture this:
We're in China. (In Xi'An) We went to have dinner at a local restaurant. NO-ONE in the restaurant spoke English. So there was lots of gestures and pointing to pictures! The waitress pulls out the chair, and motions for me to sit. I sit, H-man sits next to me. Mr T was taking off his jacket or something, and didn't see the waitress come round behind him. Mr T, instinctive pats Miss M on the bottom and says to sit down. He was highly embarrassed to find, he'd patted the waitress on the bottom!!! He then proceeds to say "Xi Xi" (thinking he said sorry).
He actually said "thank you".
So not only did he "touch her up"... he then thanked her for the pleasure!!!!
Saturday 22 November 2008
33 Months
The number 3 must be quite significant, to me, I think. Apparently, if you add all the numbers up in your date of birth, then add the total together, you'll eventually get a single number, and thats supposedly your lucky number. Mine is 3.
I am one of 3 children. I was born in the third month. I'm about to have 3 children. Even our house number has a 3 in it! So... I'm hoping this IS in fact, my lucky number and maybe "33" will be the charm, and we'll see Mini in a couple of weeks! Oh! I just had a thought! Our girl's name has 4 letters in it... but our boy's name only has 3?!!! hehehe!!!
I dreamt about our referral last night! Here in Australia, apparently, we get a phone call when the file gets to the agency office, (to say the file is in), but we don't get any information for 2-3 more days til the file is translated. Then we go into the office to see the file... there is no "call" where we get all the information - which is a bit of a bummer - but thats the way it is.
Anyway, in my dream, we got sent a piece of paper, with 2 photos on it and some brief information. It said we have a daughter. Her name was Hua Hudd (and there was another "H" name on the end, I can't remember what it was though!) There was no other information. The little girl in the photos, looked to be, just under one. The date on the photo said 11/11... and I couldn't remember the year, but decided it said '07! So I was trying to speculate how old Hua must be - I decided almost 2. The pictures were interesting! In one, the little girl was looking around a couch! In the other she was asleep in a lounge chair with a carer!!
When I woke up, I was analyzing my dream! I think her name was Hua, as a couple of little girls, I know, have that name. Hudd? Not sure!!! Never even seen that on a referral before!!! Mr T likes the name Hudson, so I was thinking that might be why it was Hudd?!! 11/11 is my friend's little girl's birthday - so I'm assuming that's why it was that date! And the pictures? Well, the little girl, looked slightly asian, but upon thinking about it, she looked alot like a little girl (sibling) at school! Its been years since I've dreamt of our child. I think its funny I had that dream last night (our wedding anniversary yesterday, and our LID anniversary today!).
Friday 21 November 2008
16 Years
You still got what it takes, Baby!
The spunky bloke in the photo brought these home, for me! Awww.... so sweet!
#1 daughter made these for us... I love 'em!
I bought my man a "T0p Gear" boxed DVD set... I know the way to my man's heart... (through a gear box!!!)
**EDIT** What's a girl to do, when her man is racing on their Wedding Anniversary? GO SHOPPING!!! Especially when a certain store has 40% OFF ALL CLOTHING!!! I bought 3 massive bags full (no surprises there?!!... and NO! not all for me, some is for Christmas Pressies!) Here are my top 3 bargains:
Long Sleeve Tee for ME! Broke the bank at $3... perfect for a chilly China winters day, No?!!
ITS A BOY?!!! No worries, got that covered! Total out of pocket expense $3 each!
Last, but certainly not least... cute lil tee. Bargain of the Day at only $1.43
Thursday 20 November 2008
Tagged
Tongginator's Mama tagged me! Obviously, my dodging and weaving tatics aren't in good form?!! Nah, I need a good distraction... albeit for 5 minutes!
Three Sixes
Six Things I Value:
1. Family. Family is funny. You can love on them and then in 2 minutes be yelling at them... but all is well?!!
2. Honesty. There was a time, when hubs was so honest with me. It sucks. "The Truth will set you Free" ~ is something I live by. Sometimes I'm a little too honest, and get myself into trouble!
3. Independence. Not in the self-righteous way. In the "I know who I am" way.
4. God's Blessing. I'm amazed everyday at how much we are blessed.
5. Friends. My friends are like gold. We don't always agree... but we listen, and that's what makes them such good friends.
6. God. God is in everything I do. He is the "glue" in my life. And trust me... over the years, I've needed LOTSA glue!
Six Things I Don't Support:
1. Lying/Deception. Absolutely can't stand it. Refer to #2 above... The TRUTH will set you free. Absolutely NO GOOD EVER comes out of lying or deceiving people.
2. Alzheimers Disease... any disease really. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all just pass away in our sleep, when we're really really old? No pain, no frustration, no hurt.
3. Labour Party. (political party)
4. Expensive fuel!!! But I do support it, coz I have to?!!!
5. Taxes. I get that we have to pay tax. I don't get why, when you're in business the tax-man makes 2 thirds more than we do...and we're the ways doing all the work? Our Govt is given $1,000 for every child, before Christmas. My FIL was very excited and told us... I said, "No Dad, we won't get a cent... we work to hard". The dole bludgers will get it though. True story.
6. Laziness. For your own sake... get off your butt and go do something! (said, as I'm sitting in front of the computer?!! what a hypocrite?!!!)
I'm sposed to tag 6 people, but I'm too lazy!!! HA!!! Not true, I'm already 4 mins overtime - gotta take the kids to school! If you wanna have a crack... and need a distraction like me... go for it!
Three Sixes
Six Things I Value:
1. Family. Family is funny. You can love on them and then in 2 minutes be yelling at them... but all is well?!!
2. Honesty. There was a time, when hubs was so honest with me. It sucks. "The Truth will set you Free" ~ is something I live by. Sometimes I'm a little too honest, and get myself into trouble!
3. Independence. Not in the self-righteous way. In the "I know who I am" way.
4. God's Blessing. I'm amazed everyday at how much we are blessed.
5. Friends. My friends are like gold. We don't always agree... but we listen, and that's what makes them such good friends.
6. God. God is in everything I do. He is the "glue" in my life. And trust me... over the years, I've needed LOTSA glue!
Six Things I Don't Support:
1. Lying/Deception. Absolutely can't stand it. Refer to #2 above... The TRUTH will set you free. Absolutely NO GOOD EVER comes out of lying or deceiving people.
2. Alzheimers Disease... any disease really. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all just pass away in our sleep, when we're really really old? No pain, no frustration, no hurt.
3. Labour Party. (political party)
4. Expensive fuel!!! But I do support it, coz I have to?!!!
5. Taxes. I get that we have to pay tax. I don't get why, when you're in business the tax-man makes 2 thirds more than we do...and we're the ways doing all the work? Our Govt is given $1,000 for every child, before Christmas. My FIL was very excited and told us... I said, "No Dad, we won't get a cent... we work to hard". The dole bludgers will get it though. True story.
6. Laziness. For your own sake... get off your butt and go do something! (said, as I'm sitting in front of the computer?!! what a hypocrite?!!!)
I'm sposed to tag 6 people, but I'm too lazy!!! HA!!! Not true, I'm already 4 mins overtime - gotta take the kids to school! If you wanna have a crack... and need a distraction like me... go for it!
Wednesday 19 November 2008
Finding my Mojo
... I've been looking for it everywhere! I think I found it. It appears it slipped down under the cushions on the lounge. I've dusted it off. Still doesn't fit, quite like it used to... I just need to pull myself into shape!
For the first time in about 2 weeks, my tummy did a "flitter flutter" as I thought, seeing our son/daughter in 2 weeks COULD be a realisation.
I even ordered Mini's Christmas gift! Thanks to this lady... for tempting me with such devine toys!!! I've ordered 4 Melissa & Doug food sets - they look absolutely amazing. I'm so "over" plastic toys. Particularly "educational" toys!!! I spent a fortune on "educational" things for Miss M, when she was a baby... she preferred an empty C0ke bottle with a bit of dry rice in it!!! Figures! The M&D sets weren't cheap! First I went to Am@z0n. Cheap sets (US$15) but the post was a killer, at US$67!!! Then add about 30%, to equate it to the AUS$. See. Not cheap. I did, however, manage to find them on our Aussie eb^y, the sets were $34 (ooo-ahh) but I only had to pay $10 to get them all posted! (and thats all in AUS$! so deduct 30% to get the US$) Cool!!! I've ordered the "Food cutting", "Pizza", "birthday cake" and "sushi". I wanted the sandwich one... but she didn't have that one :( Maybe I'll need to suck it up next Christmas, and go with Am@z0n?!! If your kids have any of these sets... leave a comment on what you think!
I even looked at RQ. Nothing going on... but I succumbed, and looked!
Oooo. Can I bear more disappointment?
Probably.
For the first time in about 2 weeks, my tummy did a "flitter flutter" as I thought, seeing our son/daughter in 2 weeks COULD be a realisation.
I even ordered Mini's Christmas gift! Thanks to this lady... for tempting me with such devine toys!!! I've ordered 4 Melissa & Doug food sets - they look absolutely amazing. I'm so "over" plastic toys. Particularly "educational" toys!!! I spent a fortune on "educational" things for Miss M, when she was a baby... she preferred an empty C0ke bottle with a bit of dry rice in it!!! Figures! The M&D sets weren't cheap! First I went to Am@z0n. Cheap sets (US$15) but the post was a killer, at US$67!!! Then add about 30%, to equate it to the AUS$. See. Not cheap. I did, however, manage to find them on our Aussie eb^y, the sets were $34 (ooo-ahh) but I only had to pay $10 to get them all posted! (and thats all in AUS$! so deduct 30% to get the US$) Cool!!! I've ordered the "Food cutting", "Pizza", "birthday cake" and "sushi". I wanted the sandwich one... but she didn't have that one :( Maybe I'll need to suck it up next Christmas, and go with Am@z0n?!! If your kids have any of these sets... leave a comment on what you think!
I even looked at RQ. Nothing going on... but I succumbed, and looked!
Oooo. Can I bear more disappointment?
Probably.
Tuesday 18 November 2008
1000 Days
Yep... you read it... 1,000 days. Madness, I tell ya! Do you like the pic? This was us, squeezed into our little train cabin, on the overnight train from Beijing to Xi'An. I really like this photo, I thought it seemed quite appropriate... it looks like we're all waiting on the edge of our seats! (which we were/are!)
This week is a massive week of numbers. Today marks 1000 days. Its our LID anniversary this week, our wedding anniversary, and Mr T is racing in the Classic Adelaide so he's hoping to improve his rank this year too! I think he finished at about 32, last year. I was so impressed! Its the first time he's ever raced in anything! And he didn't crash and die... that's always a bonus!
Its been such a funny, old month. Some mornings I wake up, and my heart skips a beat... could we see our child's face in 2 weeks time? Other mornings I wake up, feeling nothing. Can't get too excited ~ you'll only get disappointed. The lady in the bank said today "Aren't you getting ready to go to China"? (she ordered my "crisp new notes", so I told her all about it!) I sadly shook my head, and explained the incredibly small batch last month. I said "We SHOULD get in the next lot of allocations... but I'm not holding my breath". It makes me feel sad, that I'm not over the moon excited! I just don't want to be bitterly disappointed. I didn't think we'd make it, last month - but thought we'd DEFINITELY be in for Dec. But all I can think is, "what if they only allocate 2 days again?" We're still not in.
I know God's plan is perfect. I know that when we do see our child's face, it'll be so worth it. I truly do know that, and believe that. But don't kid yourself... adoption is by NO MEANS easy ~ "the wait is like being on a rolla-coasta" - truer words have never been spoken!
Sunday 16 November 2008
Recipes, trees and angels
The lovely Shelley, sent me an email, inviting me to join a recipe exchange! What a great idea! I need every distraction I can get at the moment, so I participated! I was going to give my lemon meringue pie recipe, that I know off the top of my head - but then thought, it's a "packet" of this and a "tin" of that... I don't know the weights etc, and we call our things different names here!!! (ie. we call cookies = biscuits etc!)
So I gave this recipe:
HONEY MUSTARD CRUMBED CHICKEN
4 x 125g chicken breast fillets, no skin
1/4 cup german mustard
1/4 cup honey
1/2 tspn minced garlic
salt & pepper
cornflake crumbs
Preheat oven to 180 degreesC
Combine mustard, honey garlic, salt & pepper in a bowl.
Coat each piece of chicken, then roll in cornflake crumbs.
Place fillets on non-stick oven tray lined with baking paper.
Bake for 30-35 minutes.
Serves 4.
(go to onlineconversion.com if you need to convert the measurements/temp. etc)
Then I thought - ooo! Does America have cornflakes?!! If you don't know what cornflakes are, use any type of unsweetened rolled wheat/corn breakfast cereal.
The bonus with this recipe... it only has 1.5g of fat per serve! Its yummy, quick & easy, and low fat?!!! Too good to be true, hey?!!!
Here's my lemon meringue pie recipe, I'll try and guess the weights etc!!!
1 pk sweet plain biscuits (about 200-250g pk - I use Nice biscuits in Australia)
80g melted butter
1 tin sweetened condensed milk (I have no idea how much is in there - 300ml?!)
5 eggs (separated)
1 good size lemon
1/4 cup castor sugar
Preheat oven to 150 degreesC
Crush the biscuits. (I throw them in the blender) to make fine crumbs. Mix in melted butter. Press into pie dish.
Tip tin of condensed milk into bowl. Add 3 egg yolks. Add juice from one lemon, and a bit of lemon rind. Beat together. Pour onto prepared pie dish.
Beat 5 egg whites, slowly add sugar. Beat on high speed, for about 5 mins, til whites are stiff (peaks form). Spoon onto condensed milk mixture.
Bake in oven for about 10 mins - til egg white goes slightly brown. Keep and eye on it - you don't want it "cooked"!!
Cool down. Serve with whipped cream.
Mmmm-M!
**Note: the recipe only calls for 3 eggs, for both lemon mix, and meringue - I like more meringue, so I use 2 more eggs!**
So I gave this recipe:
HONEY MUSTARD CRUMBED CHICKEN
4 x 125g chicken breast fillets, no skin
1/4 cup german mustard
1/4 cup honey
1/2 tspn minced garlic
salt & pepper
cornflake crumbs
Preheat oven to 180 degreesC
Combine mustard, honey garlic, salt & pepper in a bowl.
Coat each piece of chicken, then roll in cornflake crumbs.
Place fillets on non-stick oven tray lined with baking paper.
Bake for 30-35 minutes.
Serves 4.
(go to onlineconversion.com if you need to convert the measurements/temp. etc)
Then I thought - ooo! Does America have cornflakes?!! If you don't know what cornflakes are, use any type of unsweetened rolled wheat/corn breakfast cereal.
The bonus with this recipe... it only has 1.5g of fat per serve! Its yummy, quick & easy, and low fat?!!! Too good to be true, hey?!!!
Here's my lemon meringue pie recipe, I'll try and guess the weights etc!!!
1 pk sweet plain biscuits (about 200-250g pk - I use Nice biscuits in Australia)
80g melted butter
1 tin sweetened condensed milk (I have no idea how much is in there - 300ml?!)
5 eggs (separated)
1 good size lemon
1/4 cup castor sugar
Preheat oven to 150 degreesC
Crush the biscuits. (I throw them in the blender) to make fine crumbs. Mix in melted butter. Press into pie dish.
Tip tin of condensed milk into bowl. Add 3 egg yolks. Add juice from one lemon, and a bit of lemon rind. Beat together. Pour onto prepared pie dish.
Beat 5 egg whites, slowly add sugar. Beat on high speed, for about 5 mins, til whites are stiff (peaks form). Spoon onto condensed milk mixture.
Bake in oven for about 10 mins - til egg white goes slightly brown. Keep and eye on it - you don't want it "cooked"!!
Cool down. Serve with whipped cream.
Mmmm-M!
**Note: the recipe only calls for 3 eggs, for both lemon mix, and meringue - I like more meringue, so I use 2 more eggs!**
The tree is erected! The Christmas pagaent was last Sat. so in this house, "the season" has begun! We usually watch the pagaent on TV then put the tree up. H-man was out with Mr T & Miss M was busy painting... so no-one watched the pagaent, but we still put the tree up in the afternoon!
Did you notice the little shoes under the tree?! I showed a friend my cutesie-bargain buy, and was too lazy to put them back in her room, so I put them under the tree. Its a bit of a reminder. Every year I've bought Mini a present. I haven't bought anything this year. I looked at all the pre-school toys, and just couldn't buy one. Maybe, just maybe, if we are actually allocated Mini in the next batch - I might venture out to get something. So for now, the shoes will do!
Every year, there's a punch up over what is going on top of the Christmas tree. This year, the kids negotiated between themselves, and both their angels are on top!! 
But wait, there's more!
"The Master of Disguise"
"My Cheeky Girl"
(this has always been my fav. photo of Miss M... even after 9 years ~ this page is now my desktop background!)
Friday 14 November 2008
Hot!
The kids had their School concert last night, it was on Jesus' life. From birth til ascension. It was really good. I love hearing the whole school sing. They sound amazing. Miss M didn't get a solo part, but did get an echo... which was really a solo part, coz she did it on her own, and you could pick her voice! She also got to read a scripture, which she'd memorized - I thought she was amazing, not only memorizing quite a long scripture, but remembering it infront of all those people!!! Miss M was dressed in "Jesus day" clothes, Mr T asked if she was Mary, she said "no, just a Jew"! The way she said it was funny!! H-man, wore his black pants and had to wear his sports day teeshirt. It annoyed me, that in their item, they were in lines... so you could see the person in front, but that was it!!! But H-man, will not conform and jumped out of the line a few times to wiggle his hips and boogie!!! He also finished by throwing himself down onto his knees, with his fingers up like guns!!! (note: this was not an official part of the performance... H-man likes to adlib... much to his teachers horror!)
The weather has really been heating up here, this week. Yesterday it was 36 degreesC! (close to 100F!) And the heat seems to bring out all kinds of horrible bugs! Chewy was barking like a mad-dog the other night... here's what he was barking at! It doesn't look big, in this photo - but it was a BIG spider!!
The warm weather has also brought out a million ants! Grrrr. I HATE ants! They got into my food cupboards - they were everywhere! Ant-Rid is wonderful. 2 days after I squirt a bit of this gear out, for them to eat (that's what they're gathered around, in the photo below) - I haven't seen anymore ants! (And NO! The movie Bugs Life hasn't made me feel sorry for the little buggas one little bit!!!)
I forgot! I was in T@rget getting Miss M's Christmas pressie and just happened to see these gorgeous little shoes! For the bargain price of $6.86!! LOVE em!
Thursday 13 November 2008
Thank You
Thank you so much for your well wishes for my Grandma and for me.
My Mum phoned first thing this morning (after several phonecalls to the Home yesterday), to tell me, Grandma steadily got worse after I left. Without going into all the details of her terrible day, yesterday, there is one positive that came out of the day! Her Doctor saw her, and diagnosed a urinary tract infection, which often causes alzheimers patients to have halucinations. I'm not glad she's got a UTI! But I am hoping that was the only reason she was halucinating.
I love Mr T. He is my rock, when I'm a basketcase! He said last night, one consolation is, that Grandma doesn't know she's in a bad way. That is true.
Thanks again for your wonderful words of support and prayer. You have no idea, how much I appreciate it.
Thank you.
My Mum phoned first thing this morning (after several phonecalls to the Home yesterday), to tell me, Grandma steadily got worse after I left. Without going into all the details of her terrible day, yesterday, there is one positive that came out of the day! Her Doctor saw her, and diagnosed a urinary tract infection, which often causes alzheimers patients to have halucinations. I'm not glad she's got a UTI! But I am hoping that was the only reason she was halucinating.
I love Mr T. He is my rock, when I'm a basketcase! He said last night, one consolation is, that Grandma doesn't know she's in a bad way. That is true.
Thanks again for your wonderful words of support and prayer. You have no idea, how much I appreciate it.
Thank you.
Wednesday 12 November 2008
Perspective
I went to visit my Grandma in the nursing home today. Grandma has had alzheimers disease for several years, and has steadily gotten worse over the last year. When I say worse, I mean, she repeats the same thing several times, before realising, she's already said that! I'[m the only family she has here, now, and I haven't been to see her in over a month. I feel terrible about that. I go and visit her, give her an update on Mini's adoption. Talk about the kids and my family. She'd listen, taking it all in, and ask me questions (often the same question!) regarding what we've just talked about.
Today was different. It was 930am and Grandma was in her dressing gown, at her little table having her breakfast. Her hair was messy. Her bed unmade. I guess you might not think that's odd. But it is for Grandma. She's up, showered, dressed and ready to go at the crack of dawn. She often didn't know what she was going to do, as she'd forgot what day of the week it was - but was ready to go, when the nursing staff told her what was on the day's agenda.
As soon as Grandma saw me, she excaimed "Oh! My granddaughter! I'm so glad you're here!" She's always glad to see me, but she sounded troubled. I asked what was the matter. And for the next 15 minutes I heard a complete mish-mash of information - including the two little boys that keep misbehaving in her room. I thought, some visitors kids must've accidentally gone in her room. Unfortunately, it was the "invisible" boys - that only Grandma could see and hear. She'd stop midsentence, and say "hear that? where are those naughty boys?!" When I said I couldn't see them, she told me I was ridiculous, he was right there, but his friend had run away. She was very worried, that these children were her responsibility and their parents must be worried sick, she had to take them to the Police Station. She started talking to the boys.
I felt ill. I wanted to runaway and burst in to tears. What has happened to my Grandma?
I didn't stay long, the nurse came to encourage Grandma to have a shower and get dressed. She said she was just about to go to bed for the night. I didn't want to leave, but at the same time, I couldn't be there any longer.
As soon as I left her room, I was crying. I cried for my 40 minute trip home. I'm crying now. How do you try to help someone who doesn't know they need help?
Gosh, I love my Grandma. It completely breaks my heart, that the intellegent, generous, kind-hearted lady, that is my Grandma... is slipping away.
Monday 10 November 2008
Pulled the pin
.... on face b00k. Got and email from a friend, saying my photo was all over some other site?! (knew I shouldn't have used that naked shot on my profile!... i'm kidding!) That was the last straw. Pulled the pin.
Didn't really like it anyway. I like my blog. And reading my friend's blogs. ;) Who needs stinkin' FB when all my friends are here?!!
I just opened this in my email... my goodness... I really needed a good laugh! Hope you get a chuckle out of it too!!! Specially you Janet, Polar Bear Mama & Shannon! (and any other teacher that I've shamefully neglected!)
Kids are quick. . .
TEACHER: Maria, go to the map and find North America .
MARIA: Here it is.
TEACHER: Correct. Now class, who discovered America ?
CLASS: Maria.
____________________________________
TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?
JOHN: You told me to do it without using tables.
__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell 'crocodile?'
GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L'
TEACHER: No, that's wrong
GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.
____________________________________________
TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?
DONALD: H I J K L M N O.
TEACHER: What are you talking about?
DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O.
__________________________________
TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing we have today that we didn't
have ten years ago.
WINNIE: Me!
__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glen, why do you always get so dirty?
GLEN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are.
_______________________________________
TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with 'I.'
MILLIE: I is..
TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, 'I am.'
MILLIE: All right... 'I am the ninth letter of the alphabet.'
________________________________
TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry
tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn't
punish him?
LOUIS: Because George still had the axe in his hand.
______________________________________
TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?
SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.
______________________________
TEACHER: Clyde , your composition on 'My Dog' is exactly the same as
your brother's. Did you copy his?
CLYDE : No, sir. It's the same dog.
___________________________________
TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when
people are no longer interested?
HAROLD: A teacher
Of course, no offense is intended on the last one... but geez, it does apply to some teachers!!!
Ooo! I just remembered something funny H-man said the other day.
He was standing in line, at school, and he kept running out of line to go pick up a stick, or run around etc. I got all cranky at him and said "That's enough. You need to stand in line, and listen to your teacher. You better not behave like this when I'm not here. I'm tellin' ya, you better pull your socks up mister". Him and his friend standing next to him, both look down at H-man's feet. He's wearing sandals. H-man looks all confused "but I don't have socks on?"!! I couldn't help it, I bust out laughing. And explained, it was a figure of speech - just something people say, when they mean you need to be on your best behaviour. H-man still looks confused and says "but what's it got to do with socks?"!!!
Geez it was funny. He's right. What does good behaviour have to do with socks?!!!
Didn't really like it anyway. I like my blog. And reading my friend's blogs. ;) Who needs stinkin' FB when all my friends are here?!!
I just opened this in my email... my goodness... I really needed a good laugh! Hope you get a chuckle out of it too!!! Specially you Janet, Polar Bear Mama & Shannon! (and any other teacher that I've shamefully neglected!)
Kids are quick. . .
TEACHER: Maria, go to the map and find North America .
MARIA: Here it is.
TEACHER: Correct. Now class, who discovered America ?
CLASS: Maria.
____________________________________
TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?
JOHN: You told me to do it without using tables.
__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell 'crocodile?'
GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L'
TEACHER: No, that's wrong
GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.
____________________________________________
TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?
DONALD: H I J K L M N O.
TEACHER: What are you talking about?
DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O.
__________________________________
TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing we have today that we didn't
have ten years ago.
WINNIE: Me!
__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glen, why do you always get so dirty?
GLEN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are.
_______________________________________
TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with 'I.'
MILLIE: I is..
TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, 'I am.'
MILLIE: All right... 'I am the ninth letter of the alphabet.'
________________________________
TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry
tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn't
punish him?
LOUIS: Because George still had the axe in his hand.
______________________________________
TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?
SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.
______________________________
TEACHER: Clyde , your composition on 'My Dog' is exactly the same as
your brother's. Did you copy his?
CLYDE : No, sir. It's the same dog.
___________________________________
TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when
people are no longer interested?
HAROLD: A teacher
Of course, no offense is intended on the last one... but geez, it does apply to some teachers!!!
Ooo! I just remembered something funny H-man said the other day.
He was standing in line, at school, and he kept running out of line to go pick up a stick, or run around etc. I got all cranky at him and said "That's enough. You need to stand in line, and listen to your teacher. You better not behave like this when I'm not here. I'm tellin' ya, you better pull your socks up mister". Him and his friend standing next to him, both look down at H-man's feet. He's wearing sandals. H-man looks all confused "but I don't have socks on?"!! I couldn't help it, I bust out laughing. And explained, it was a figure of speech - just something people say, when they mean you need to be on your best behaviour. H-man still looks confused and says "but what's it got to do with socks?"!!!
Geez it was funny. He's right. What does good behaviour have to do with socks?!!!
Sunday 9 November 2008
Alive... breathing
Yes, I am still alive (even if I did sound a little suidical in my last 2 posts!)
I am getting over my own little pity party. It might take another bottle of wine, or two!! NO!!! I'm kidding... please don't tell my SW about my drinking... no, I'm not drinking ~ there's nothing to see here folks!
I had a lovely quiet day yesterday, digital scrapbooking and quietly going about my housework. Had friends call in just after dinner, and they ended up staying the night - as they live over an hour away! So it was nice to wake up and have a nice relaxing breakfast of bacon and eggs with good friends. We went to Church ~ AMAZING how the sermon is all about our current struggles, and gives great encouragement on how to conquer! We caught up with our batch for a lovely "Greek" lunch, overlooking the sea. It was gorgeous. Everyone came back for a coffee, and have just left. We wished each other well, and all said we hope the next time we meet, we'll be holding little photos and leaping/screaming for joy!
So here I sit, pondering what the week will bring. I just looked at my calendar, the 18th of this month will mark 1,000 days logged in. Just another milestone. We can count days all we like, but it won't bring our baby any faster. We can stalk rumour sites, but it won't bring our baby any faster.
Maybe my pity party, hasn't finished yet?!
I am getting over my own little pity party. It might take another bottle of wine, or two!! NO!!! I'm kidding... please don't tell my SW about my drinking... no, I'm not drinking ~ there's nothing to see here folks!
I had a lovely quiet day yesterday, digital scrapbooking and quietly going about my housework. Had friends call in just after dinner, and they ended up staying the night - as they live over an hour away! So it was nice to wake up and have a nice relaxing breakfast of bacon and eggs with good friends. We went to Church ~ AMAZING how the sermon is all about our current struggles, and gives great encouragement on how to conquer! We caught up with our batch for a lovely "Greek" lunch, overlooking the sea. It was gorgeous. Everyone came back for a coffee, and have just left. We wished each other well, and all said we hope the next time we meet, we'll be holding little photos and leaping/screaming for joy!
So here I sit, pondering what the week will bring. I just looked at my calendar, the 18th of this month will mark 1,000 days logged in. Just another milestone. We can count days all we like, but it won't bring our baby any faster. We can stalk rumour sites, but it won't bring our baby any faster.
Maybe my pity party, hasn't finished yet?!
Digital Scrapbooking makes me feel good, which makes Mr T happier, because its much cheaper than shopping!!!
Friday 7 November 2008
"Snap Out of It!"
Geez - I just felt so unbelievably rotten last night. I spoke with Mr T, and he said "I don't know why you're so worried/mad about things you have no control over". He always knows how to verbally slap me!!! Its true. Yes, you could say my anger/frustration/sadness is all justified, but at the end of the day - there is NOTHING I can do about the situation.
It wasn't just the news about the amount of allocations, it's the non-sale of our house. Its the business. Its friends who's marriages have fallen apart. Its the constant "passing the buck" (to me) from other people, who can't be bothered doing things themselves. Its friend's that have been told they have a 5% chance of surviving the cancer that has taken over their bodies.
I said to Mr T "It just feels like we can't cut a break at the moment". Everything feels hard.
But, it's all about perspective - if I only dwell on the negative - its all I'm going to see and feel. We are amazingly blessed. Sometimes I'm too caught up in my circumstances, to see it.
It wasn't just the news about the amount of allocations, it's the non-sale of our house. Its the business. Its friends who's marriages have fallen apart. Its the constant "passing the buck" (to me) from other people, who can't be bothered doing things themselves. Its friend's that have been told they have a 5% chance of surviving the cancer that has taken over their bodies.
I said to Mr T "It just feels like we can't cut a break at the moment". Everything feels hard.
But, it's all about perspective - if I only dwell on the negative - its all I'm going to see and feel. We are amazingly blessed. Sometimes I'm too caught up in my circumstances, to see it.
Thursday 6 November 2008
NEWS!!!
Finally!
Babies have started appearing on RQ. I've got everything crossed, that Emma arrives today or tomorrow! Emma's family were logged in on the 20th... not only will be super-duper great for Emma's family... but it's good news for me, as it'll mean, CC.@A is only TWO days from our LID!!! Which means - we'll DEFINITELY be in, in December.
CONGRATULATIONS TO:
Ruby is Coming
Waiting for Lauren Elizabeth
I must admit, I was a grumpy cow yesterday! With rumours of only a two day batch this month - I wasn't depressed, I wasn't sad.... I WAS ANGRY!!! I kept (bitterly) saying to Mr T - "GREAT! Now we might not even see Mini in December!".... ever the optomist, hey?!!!!
I'm feeling like I've hit a bit of a "Zen Spot", now that there are reports that the 20th have been allocated! I just need to see a baby or two that was logged in on the 20th... and all will be well! I figure it gives me another month to organise my kids, Christmas etc ~ and KNOWING we WILL see Mini in approx 30 days!
Wow! 30 days? After 4 years, of praying, thinking about her (which could now be HIM!), changing her name 3 times!, shopping for her, blogging about her, dreaming about her... we're finally in the FINAL days! I'm guessing we have approx. 2 months left as a family of four.
Other good news (I'm just full of it today!) - we FINALLY decided on a boys name. If we're allocated a boy - we've narrowed his name down to ONE name!!! I had a list of about 6 names, with about 20 middle name variations!!! We still haven't decided on a middle name - but that's no biggie! He's got a first name! I tell ya, I've been sleeping alot better since we made the decision. Mr T has been saying for at least 6 months now, he's sure we'll be allocated a boy!!! Its really freaked me out.... I HATE being unprepared!!!
So - our child (whether male or female)... has a name! Woohoo!
...and its not Mini!
*EDIT* - Now I'm gettin REALLY MAD!!! It appears some wrong information was announced, and it "appears" [[AA only got as far as the 17th Feb. Yes folks, and enormous 1 and half days of files was allocated this month. So sorry to Jen and family - you WILL beyond a shadow of doubt, see Emma in Decmeber.
Truly, I thought waiting 33 months was hard... this last week has been brutal. Yes, I know, I'm a whinging cow... I'm really mad. The bad news is, if they only managed to allocate under 2 days this month - there's a good chance they'll do it again next month and we still won't be in.
Unbelievable.
Lord, Give me Strength.
Babies have started appearing on RQ. I've got everything crossed, that Emma arrives today or tomorrow! Emma's family were logged in on the 20th... not only will be super-duper great for Emma's family... but it's good news for me, as it'll mean, CC.@A is only TWO days from our LID!!! Which means - we'll DEFINITELY be in, in December.
CONGRATULATIONS TO:
Ruby is Coming
Waiting for Lauren Elizabeth
I must admit, I was a grumpy cow yesterday! With rumours of only a two day batch this month - I wasn't depressed, I wasn't sad.... I WAS ANGRY!!! I kept (bitterly) saying to Mr T - "GREAT! Now we might not even see Mini in December!".... ever the optomist, hey?!!!!
I'm feeling like I've hit a bit of a "Zen Spot", now that there are reports that the 20th have been allocated! I just need to see a baby or two that was logged in on the 20th... and all will be well! I figure it gives me another month to organise my kids, Christmas etc ~ and KNOWING we WILL see Mini in approx 30 days!
Wow! 30 days? After 4 years, of praying, thinking about her (which could now be HIM!), changing her name 3 times!, shopping for her, blogging about her, dreaming about her... we're finally in the FINAL days! I'm guessing we have approx. 2 months left as a family of four.
Other good news (I'm just full of it today!) - we FINALLY decided on a boys name. If we're allocated a boy - we've narrowed his name down to ONE name!!! I had a list of about 6 names, with about 20 middle name variations!!! We still haven't decided on a middle name - but that's no biggie! He's got a first name! I tell ya, I've been sleeping alot better since we made the decision. Mr T has been saying for at least 6 months now, he's sure we'll be allocated a boy!!! Its really freaked me out.... I HATE being unprepared!!!
So - our child (whether male or female)... has a name! Woohoo!
...and its not Mini!
*EDIT* - Now I'm gettin REALLY MAD!!! It appears some wrong information was announced, and it "appears" [[AA only got as far as the 17th Feb. Yes folks, and enormous 1 and half days of files was allocated this month. So sorry to Jen and family - you WILL beyond a shadow of doubt, see Emma in Decmeber.
Truly, I thought waiting 33 months was hard... this last week has been brutal. Yes, I know, I'm a whinging cow... I'm really mad. The bad news is, if they only managed to allocate under 2 days this month - there's a good chance they'll do it again next month and we still won't be in.
Unbelievable.
Lord, Give me Strength.
Tuesday 4 November 2008
11:22pm
Its 11:22pm, I'm just heading off to bed, and thought I'd check to see if any new rumours have surfaced...
Unfortunately, it's not looking too promising. A couple of European Agencies are saying the batch will only include a couple of days?!!! What the?!!!!
I.just.don't.get.it.
Why has it taken them longer to send out the batch... and it only includes 2 days? Obviously, these ARE only rumours, and we can't be sure til the families receive their allocations, before we can determine the actual cut-off. There are also reports the files will leave in the next day or two (although one agency says they've already left?!) I hate it when there are so many conflicting reports!!!!
We saw Mummy III tonight! I like those movies - I love how they throw some humour in amongst the "scary" stuff! It makes it seem far less scary!!! Its certainly not a movie, my kids will be watching - but I thought it was pretty good. We love Jet Li - and this was his first movie as "the bad guy"! He was, as always ~ GREAT!
I also made a couple more scrap pages.... enjoy!
(the last pic, is obviously my kids... the butterfly in the pic symbolises Mini ~ butterflies mean new life! ~ I REALLY LOVE this page! I've made it my desktop background!)
Monday 3 November 2008
Sending out the vibe...
Still no news. Urgh.
In an effort to send good "baby vibes" across the ocean, I did what I said I wouldn't do (til we got our referral) - and put our little one's jogger pram together! Here's how you put a $38 e.ba.y jogger together...
Step One:
Retrieve dusty dented box from shed. (sneeze 20 times, from all the dust up your nose, then blow all dust from your nose, into a Kleenex!)
Step Two:
Open box.... Oooo-Aaaah over plastic covered contents.
Step Three:
Remove pieces from box, remove plastic, and lay all pieces on the floor. Ooo's and ahhh's have now change to "oh crap, does this thing have an alan key"?!!
Step Four:
Open main part of pram, and attach front swivel wheel to front forks.... (more oh craps! hope I've put this on tight enough!)
Step Five:
Fix "brake" bar to back forks, and "smack" each back wheel on. (it said til the click, but I smacked it with my hand to get it on, so I didn't hear it click!!!) It doesn't appear, it's going to come off.... all must be well.
Step Six:
Attach "parent tray" and "baby tray"... ooo goodie, I have a tray?!!!
Step Seven:
Voila! Its done! It goes UP.... It goes DOWN!
Step Eight:
Mini (ha!) enjoys a ride! (oh and I'm not sure if you can see - but I've put in a "pramliner" that I bought about 3 years ago - it's mint green with Classic Pooh on it. I love Classic Pooh. Now, its nice and squishy and comfy.... and hopefully if Mini makes a mess, I can throw Classic Pooh liner into washing machine and pram will still look good as new!....hopefully!
I know I'm ridiculously excited about a new pram... after Mini has been home 2 weeks, the novelty will have worn off, I'll be ticked off about how heavy the darn thing is to throw in the back of the car!!!
Sunday 2 November 2008
Busy Saturday!
Sorry for my ranting in the last post. I hate being a whinger... but I just couldn't help it Friday night!!!
Anyway - moving onto happier times! On Saturday H-man had his birthday party (11 days after his birthday!) ~ he was very happy to have it later, as he got to be the birthday boy longer!!! We invited about 12 kids from school, but 4 ended up having some weird virus (high temps, headaches and nausea) so we only ended up with 8 kids (+ our 2!) H-man wanted to watch St@r W@rs Cl0ne W@rs . I wanted to do the party before his birthday, in the School Holidays, but rang the cinema and they took it off 2 days before school holidays started???!!!! What's with that?!!! I wasn't very happy. Mr T had a business trip to Indonesia, and was able to pic up a genuine B@li copy!!! Oh, but it's not a copy (if you ask them!!!) ;)
The kids played "pin the light sabre on Y0da" (instead of pin the tail on the donkey!) - I'm pretty sure the kid that won, cheated, since he very carefully put it right on "the spot". We had beanbags and matress on the floor, put the movie on the "projector" which beams up, covering the entire wall! They had their pizza while watcing the movie... well all 20 mins that they actually stayed there watching the movie!!! They all went outside tourmenting the poor dogs!! The boys went to H-man's room, recovered every weapon he owns... and I didn't dare go see what they were doing with the weapons (although I did the responible parent thing, and told them not to hit each other, or the dogs). I was a slacker and bought a mud cake platter, which had a big mud cake in the middle and mud cake cupcakes around the edge! We just stuck st@r w@rs figures all over it!!! With sports day on the Friday, I really didn't want the added pressure of coming up with a cake master piece... the mud cake went down very well!
The kids left 2 hrs after they got there, with the chocka-block full lolly bags! And once again, peace was restored!
Anyway - moving onto happier times! On Saturday H-man had his birthday party (11 days after his birthday!) ~ he was very happy to have it later, as he got to be the birthday boy longer!!! We invited about 12 kids from school, but 4 ended up having some weird virus (high temps, headaches and nausea) so we only ended up with 8 kids (+ our 2!) H-man wanted to watch St@r W@rs Cl0ne W@rs . I wanted to do the party before his birthday, in the School Holidays, but rang the cinema and they took it off 2 days before school holidays started???!!!! What's with that?!!! I wasn't very happy. Mr T had a business trip to Indonesia, and was able to pic up a genuine B@li copy!!! Oh, but it's not a copy (if you ask them!!!) ;)
The kids played "pin the light sabre on Y0da" (instead of pin the tail on the donkey!) - I'm pretty sure the kid that won, cheated, since he very carefully put it right on "the spot". We had beanbags and matress on the floor, put the movie on the "projector" which beams up, covering the entire wall! They had their pizza while watcing the movie... well all 20 mins that they actually stayed there watching the movie!!! They all went outside tourmenting the poor dogs!! The boys went to H-man's room, recovered every weapon he owns... and I didn't dare go see what they were doing with the weapons (although I did the responible parent thing, and told them not to hit each other, or the dogs). I was a slacker and bought a mud cake platter, which had a big mud cake in the middle and mud cake cupcakes around the edge! We just stuck st@r w@rs figures all over it!!! With sports day on the Friday, I really didn't want the added pressure of coming up with a cake master piece... the mud cake went down very well!
The kids left 2 hrs after they got there, with the chocka-block full lolly bags! And once again, peace was restored!
Daddy bought himself a new toy!
Quiet Sunday afternoon...
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