go go galindo

the winds of change are slow blowing

2011-07-14T08:07:00.000-05:00

You may notice a few little changes here at G3.

Did you know that I sometimes refer to the blog as G3?

Go Go Galindo. Get it? You know. Because there are 3Gs.

Right. Anyway. You'll notice some of the junk and busyness is missing from the sidebar on the right. And I've also added some tabs at the top. Well, only one so far, but more are coming so just keep a watchful eye. Or use both eyes if you prefer. It's totally up to you.

***

Some things I'm thinking about today:

I started making a list. "Reasons Justin is Awesome". So far it has 171 reasons. We read through the first bunch a couple of nights ago and it was really funny. Then we saw a cockroach and I made Justin kill it. So I needed to add that to the list. But I didn't have a pen.

"Reasons Justin is Awesome"

158. Justin is a great roach killer.

159. Justin always has a pen.

***

Today marks the 52nd day of my new lifestyle.

Lifestyle of Health.

I started paying attention to what I was eating.

And exercising. (Gasp!)

And I actually like exercising! (Double Gasp!)

As of this past Monday I've lost 21 pounds.

And over 7.5 inches in the last three weeks alone.

I say that last part because that's when I started measuring.

***

I've been teaching on the Fruit of the Spirit this summer at our church.

Each week I think it's going to get easier.

And each week I am not surprised by just how much the Bible has to say about different things.

Like, for example, did you know that patience is rooted in forgiveness?

What?!

***

I read a fantasy novel. My first one. A big one. In a series.

(Because Justin asked me to.)

Then I read the second one. And now I've started the third.

But I think I'm going to stop in favor of a book that actually adds something to my life.

***

Asher will be out of school for the whole month of August.

I'm trying to think of some fun things we can do.

And maybe some trips we can take.

Any ideas?

***

If someone handed you a baby tonight and you had the task of naming it...

what name would you choose and why?

Taking back the blog

2011-07-13T15:31:00.000-05:00

What? Two days in a row? I know, shocker!

Well, I'm here to say I'm taking back the blog. And I really mean it this time. I'm going to be doing some rearranging on the blog and changing things up a bit. And I'm going to write about what I want. I started this blog years ago for myself. I wanted a way to feel connected to the adoption community, but our adoption was taking so long with no adoption news that I ended up blogging about random things like our Christmas tree and horseshoes with friends and fun trips. Then we finally had adoption news and there was stuff to post about. My little community of readers grew and we all talked about adoption all the time. The blog was great for that because not many people in our little lives wanted to talk about it all the time because it was still abstract. And now Asher is two. And a half! And the adoption stuff seems so long ago (although we are still waiting on a blasted court date!!!) and that's why I don't post very often.

But now I'm taking back the blog -- my blog -- and writing about whatever I want. There are a handful of things that are going on in our family right now and I want those to be documented and people to know what's up with us. I also want to have a place to braindump. So there all that is.

Of course I'll keep posting things about Asher. To prove it here are some pictures from July 4th weekend. We spent it at the pool. I am full of surprises today. Brace yourselves for cuteness!

Asher loves to be thrown up into the air. But only by Daddy. And because Justin is so awesome, he does it. Over and over and over again. I swear I have hundreds (literally!) of pictures just like this.

As soon as Justin's done, Asher immediately asks, "More! Please! Please! Again again again!!!"

To which, after he gathers his breath, Justin gladly grants the request. Over and over and over.

Which is obvious. I mean, check out my mans biceps and shoulders.

I love these two!

Just. Stinkin. Precious.

How can one stinky little boy be so cute?

And bring so much joy?

It's a miracle.

A gift.

from The Great Gift-Giver alone.

we are thankful.

where did June go?

2011-07-10T23:51:00.001-05:00

I'm way behind on the ol' blog, as some of you were so kind to point out. : ) So here's a recap of June.

June 2 I celebrated my fifth wedding anniversary with my sweet Pablo. We had a party.

We had some awesome fajitas and played some yard games. We even made a giant adult twister board, which was pretty fun, if I may say so myself. Yay for love and anniversaries and people falling over. From laughter. And maybe a little pain...

A few weeks later, my mother moved into our neighborhood (yes, that's half our parents now living in our neighborhood) and brought her fun pool. And a slide. Anyone guess where that's going?

You didn't know that was the next logical idea? We've spent several hours replicating this event.

Ok, my next two posts are practically writing themselves. I've got another fun picture post with a tiny little hooray, and then I thought I'd post about Asher's annual report thingy. We wrote our first one this year!

a new challenge ... and it's fun!

2011-05-16T14:25:00.001-05:00

I read a challenge that sparked something inside me.
Something about passion.
Something about fun.

And yesterday I heard something about using my ordinary-everyday-life to do something big.
No, like really Big.
BIG.

This afternoon I saw something that gave me an idea.
And I want to tell you all about it.
Via the mail.
Snail mail.

So I will write you a letter, handwritten, not typed.
About the everyday, ordinary life we lead,
about the not-so-ordinary things,
and lots of stuff in between.
On fancy stationery like the stuff J bought me our first married Christmas.
Or funny stationery like the stuff I had when I was a kid.
What? You didn't have stationery when you were a kid?
Well, that's sad.
Go and get yourself some kid stationery.
And use it. You'll feel all sorts of fun when you do.

What was I saying? Oh. Letters. Writing. You.
Just email me your snail mail address.
nifty giftys at gmail dot com (no spaces)

Then wait by your mailbox.
Or stalk your postal worker.
You know, like you did when waiting for your adoption paperwork.
Or Publisher's Clearinghouse.
Or netflix. Whatever.

I would love this opportunity to share with you, boldly.
And I thank you for the privilege of your friendship!
Thank you.
Thank you now and thank you again later.
Let's have some fun together!

PS -- If you need a new mailbox, check these out for inspiration.

how crazy is that?!

2011-05-05T10:51:00.001-05:00

Someone mentioned myspace the other day. Whoa, flashback for sure. I realized I had no idea if I'd ever deleted mine or not...so tonight I went to check and delete if it was still there. And guess what...? It's still there! Eeek! As I was nosing around the me of a few years ago, I found this little posting (what were they on myspace?) and it made me giggle.

Baby Talk...yes, the rumors are true.

Yes, the rumors are true. There's been baby talk in the Galindo house. This summer begins a year of prayer (and study and work) and next summer will mark the beginning of our journey to grow our family.

We feel the special call to adopt internationally and will begin filling out the necessary paperwork (dossier) to adopt from Ethiopia next summer (post-graduation and job switch). The whole process should take about 9-13 months so by the following summer (2009--I know, it sounds far away, but it's not!) our home will be filled with the laughter of a new baby.

We're not pursuing a particular gender, we feel like the Lord knows best who belongs in our home.

So pray for us on this journey! Oh, and our soon-to-be family member, too!

Asher, within the first 5 minutes of being home with us in our house, May 2009.

Man, was he a cutie!!!

The best part is, that the summer of 2009 is actually when Asher came home! We actually started the paperwork process way before we planned, which is good since it took us so long and Asher was ready to come home by the time it was all finished and said and done.

I just love how God works things out. Don't you?

ooops

2011-05-04T15:04:00.000-05:00

Well, I had no intention of letting a month slip by sans post, much less three months! But it has happened and now I'm to the point where I need to post so people know we are still alive. We are, indeed, still alive. And now, a recap.

In February, shortly after the last post, we had a little chili cook-off which was great fun! I kept putting the camera down which means the pictures from that event are hardly worth mentioning. Most of them are pictures of a certain couple while he's trying to kiss her and she's trying to escape (RB, you can thank me now) or of people open-mouthed shoveling chili as fast as they can (names left out to protect the guilty). So here is a picture of some of the tiny chili hooligans watching WordWorld and dumping out every.single.toy.in.our.house.

Then later Asher and I went to the zoo with my mother and a friend of hers, Rae, who was visiting from out of town. I had anticipated that Asher might not be ready for a rousing day at the zoo, but we preceded anyway. He lasted about two hours. Which is the equivalent to the time it took to get there and get home. He did seem to like the elephants, but did not understand why he was not allowed to climb all the fences and run where he wanted. We did finally make it to the children's area and that was much better. As he ran from play area to play area, I repeatedly heard other adults comment on how fast he was. If I had time to slow down myself, I would have assured them he was not even traveling at full speed. Oh, and he seemed to really like the big fountain, too, but again, why he was not allowed to play in it was completely unclear and thus, unsatisfactory.

That same day was the day I learned that Asher could climb into his high chair at will, by using the furniture around him. Since then he seems to have forgotten that skill. For now...

In March he took to hiding himself for peek-a-boo a bit more creatively than before...

Look for another fun post soon! I promise!!!

A Verse

2011-02-01T17:41:00.000-06:00

I've always loved names with meaning. I have a name with meaning. It's not been an easy name to live with, but because of it's meaning, I've grown to love it more and more. {I am the namesake for my maternal grandmother.}

I've always wanted our children to have meaningful names. A reason behind why we chose a name other than it's popularity or quirkiness or how great the monogram would look on a pillow. Something with substance. Something that would provide direction for our children. Something that would promote our deepest prayers and hopes for their lives.

I have a friend who is excellent at this. I was so excited when they had their first child, a daughter, and explained her name in her birth announcements. I loved that it had to do with where she was born, but also provided some direction for her to grow into. Their next daughter was no disappointment either. I actually found the post that shows her announcement and the meaning behind it. This very week they welcomed their third child into this world, a son, whose name and meaning I could hardly wait for. I love that each of their children were given meaningful names with a history or verse. I also love that all their babies have so much hair. {Hi Glo! Congratulations!!!}

Then there's Emily. We've never met, but I want her to be a good friend of mine. She lives far away. Not as far as Dubai, but in the Pacific Northwest, so she might as well be. I mean, it's outside of Texas... I want her to be my big sister. I want to grow up to be a lot like her. Only without the red hair. It looks so lovely on her, but I am pretty convinced I could not pull it off. Anyway. She chose a beautiful verse for her daughter and prayed this over her. Love that. She also recently shared how a particular verse related to her name's meaning impacted her life and how she wants to live it. Love that, too.

All this had me thinking about names and verses and meaning and purpose. We chose Asher's name because of it's meaning and how it seemed to perfectly fit both his personality and exactly how we felt as his parents. And while there are verses about the Lord and His joy, none of them seem right for my son. I just can't find the perfect fit.

To be continued...

BUT! Are there certain verses you pray over your children? Certain ones that always make you think of your child? Does your baby's name have a special meaning? Please tell. Please tell.

Referral-iversary

2011-01-29T16:36:00.000-06:00

It was two years ago today that we received our referral call from Julie at AGCI

And two years ago today that I let my grandparents see his sweet face before I did

And two years ago today that I called Justin while he drove a patrol car with the lights and sirens and he kept saying, "what?!"

Two years ago today I held my breath the entire night at Refuge to not give it away and share at the very end what had happened that day

Two years ago tonight, we had our family and friends here at our home where Justin and I would sit down together, after a long day of waiting and wondering, to see our son's face on a computer screen

Two years ago, we turned the screen around and watched and listened as everyone we loved ooohed and ahhhhed about our unnamed child

Two years ago we ate rich chocolate cake and jumped up and down and squealed and screamed and cried and danced and shouted and prayed and praised and felt the joy of family

Our son was only three weeks old

Our son was tiny

Our son.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

And because I am feeling especially sentimental and have a few more minutes until naptime is over, here are some fun places to go back and relive all the excitement.

All the comments are super fun, too! Be sure and check those out as well.

Finding out We're Number One

When I Got The Call

Details of The Actual Call

Telling Justin

Grandparents See Great-Grandson

Sharing the News via Telephone

and Plans in the Works

Seeing Our Son's Face

Asher's Birthday :: Part 2

2011-01-20T07:28:00.000-06:00

We decided to forgo the big party this year and do a simple birthday dinner on a weeknight with all our parents. Which was great because there were no invites to make or mail, no weather to worry about, and no exposure to sick kids. There was, however, a lot of laughing and squealing and screaming. Not just by Asher, either. You put eight adults madlyinlove with the cutestbabyonearth and see what volume you reach. "It goes up to 11." {Bonus points if you know that quote. Serious bonus points.}

I made a super simple dinner of soft tacos, spicy corn, pinto beans and cupcakes (with incredible fugde frosting). All served buffet style. I have no idea why my family didn't do things this way growing up. So fewer dishes! Anyway. Super easy and quick and tasty.

{Any "My Name Is Earl" fans? We love the closed-eye picture tradition.}

There are no family photos. I can not believe it! I'm resolving right now to be better about making someone take a picture of Asher with his Mommy and Daddy. Seriously.

The plan was simple: sit around the table and eat while we watch Asher eat. He always provides good supper-time entertainment and general face messyness. He was definitely entertaining during dinner. The best part was probably after dinner, though. Justin got up and began clearing the dishes (I know, bonus points for him) and when I joined him Asher went to play with his little barn. He loves the music and plays the songs over and over and over again. Well, he played the songs and ran in circles. The entire time we did dishes. At least twenty five circles. He'd stop and dance for a minute, but then back to running. None of the grandparents took pictures though, so be mad at them, not me. I think we did get some video, so I'll try to check into that soon. And my next post won't have anything to do with Asher's birthday. But it will probably still have something to do with him. Let's just face it.

Asher's Birthday :: Part 1

2011-01-19T15:53:00.000-06:00

You've waited long enough. No more delays. I mentioned here that I'd made about thirty meals. It just so happened that I did that when Justin was out of town. And it was Asher's birthday. Sometimes things just happen that way. Here's how it went down. First, when it's your birthday, I am an advocate of having whatever you want for breakfast. Actually, I feel like this fairly often, but especially on one's birthday. Especially when you're two. So Asher has milk and grapes and donut holes. Actually, this is his first experience with cakey donut holes, but I thought he'd like them and they sounded good to me when we were at Kroger. Don't judge me.

Asher ate his breakfast, we practiced our flash cards and sang happy birthday and I started on this.

Cajun 16-bean soup. Can you find sixteen different beans? Me either. I only counted twelve. Maybe I'll try again later when we eat some.

While I souped, Asher played. We're big fans of free play on Saturday mornings around here. I just read an article about how free play is really good for fostering independence. Not that he needs any help in that department.

I rounded up supplies for all my meals. While it was a lot of work, I am excited to do it again. And it's been so fun to eat things from our freezer. Tonight we're having Santa Fe Chicken Chili and tomorrow Cream Cheese and Spinach stuffed Chicken wrapped in Bacon. Be jealous.

Asher helped me get out some other things.

I cooked, he played. He cooked, I played. We cooked. We played.

We took a break for lunch and wagoning. Asher received a Radio Flyer for Christmas so we wagon often. Elmo was in Asher's good graces that day, so he was offered a wagon ride as well.

After wagoning, Asher took a nap and I returned to the kitchen. Later that night, Asher went to MeMaw and PawPaw's for dinner and movie. Lucky kid. I was still in the kitchen...

P.S. Asher loves meatballs.

Not Two. Nine. Thirty. Doves. Chili. Song and Dance. Boredom.

2011-01-11T17:29:00.000-06:00

Brace yourselves, people. This could be an exhausting post. I have a lot to say.

First things first. TWO. My boy is TWO. It's earth-shattering and mind-numbing and not-a-big-deal all at once. I tried to explain to someone at church the other day that he simply cannot be TWO. We haven't had him that long, we haven't known him that long, wehaventhecan'tthat'sjustthewayitis. We're not having a big party for him this year. Just the grandparents. Secretly I tell myself that if we don't have a birthday party, he hasn't had another birthday and he's not really TWO.

I cooked for NINE hours on Saturday. All by myself. It's not even Thanksgiving y'all. It may have been somewhere around nine hours, minus some time outside with a certain birthday boy and his red wagon and a quick trip for more broccoli, but I made ELEVEN breakfasts and almost THIRTY meals for our family, plus a few to take to our pastor and his wife when their new baby is born.I'm actually blaming Gloria because she's the one who first talked about OAMC and then I thought that sounded fun and then several of my friends were also interested. So I bit off. A lot. Almost more than I can chew. But I did it and I didn't quit and my freezer is pretty full.

I'm also expecting about FORTY doves to arrive any day for me to stuff and wrap with bacon. They will also live in my freezer until we have a dove party. Does anyone even like dove?

We're having a party. In February. We're bringing back the Nell Annual. This time it's a Chili Cookoff. With a prize and everything. Start practicing.

I started doing a little coupon clipping. And while it drives me a little crazy, it also makes me feel so accomplished when my receipt says, "You Saved $39.48" which then makes me do a fun song and dance routine.

Speaking of routines and gallbladders, I'm getting a little bored with this blog. I know, it's not your fault, it's mine. And I'm sorry about that. So I think I might be shaking some things up. I'm not sure how yet, but I know that I used to love blogging and I haven't loved it in a while, because if I loved it I would do it more often.

Speaking of fun, remember last year when we did this? It was so fun. I can't believe it's been a year!

Stirring up baby Jesus

2010-12-22T14:35:00.000-06:00

I wanted to write a blog post about something. Anything. But I have too much stuff to do.

I need to throw the clothes into the dryer and start another load.

But I can't do that until I make some more laundry soap. To do that, I need to get out all the ingredients and wash the big bowls I use that Asher has taken over to collect his favorite toys.

What are his favorite toys? A giant jingle bell, the green ring (From the stacking toy), a teether, a pig rubber pig, and baby Jesus (who was promptly evicted from his nativity set to live in the bowl in the bottom drawer in the kitchen). He likes to stir his toys with a big wooden spoon. And I let him. Except it's a little strange to me that he's stirring up baby Jesus.

I'm trying to be encouraged that at least baby Jesus is one of his favorites that gets extra special treatment.

totally behind

2010-12-13T14:07:00.000-06:00

Asher started school in November. I know time flies, but don't worry. He's not really in kindergarten or anything. I took these pictures that morning because aren't you supposed to have pictures from your first day of school? Asher didn't think so. : (

Maybe hiding behind the trash can will help. Nope. It doesn't.

On a side note, while packing his lunch, I was really worried about what he'd eat since their lunch time was way earlier than our normal eating time. Actually, everything about school is way earlier than our normal time. Also, I was concerned that he'd run out of food while other kids were eating and that could be detrimental to the rest of his day. So I packed and packed and packed food for him.

Lunch includes:

1 peanut butter fold over with extra peanut butter

cheese puffs

1/2 cup yogurt puffs

string cheese

two clementine oranges

5 pretzels

2 animal cookies

water

He ate every bite.

Also, mornings are much better now. And he likes school. He doesn't always eat that much for lunch. But sometimes he eats even more. : )

ch-ch-ch-cheesecake

2010-12-02T22:56:00.001-06:00

For your immediate viewing pleasure, I give you tonight's dinner time enjoyment:

Cheesecake with Grandpa and Mimi.

Mmmmmm.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-11T15:59:00.000-06:00

I realize it's already November. And the middle of November at that. But I still have four hundred darling pictures of Asher at the Pumpkin Patch so I'm going to post them anyway. Plus, this is my blog so I'll do whatever I want. Betcha didn't see that coming. Ok, so I realize most of you can't handle the sheer volume of cuteness in four hundred pictures, so I'll only post eight. You can thank me later.

Asher spent most of his time running and jumping on this ramp. It was his favorite part of the whole experience.

Lest you think our lives are boring...

2010-11-08T06:41:00.001-06:00

My adorable little trouble-maker keeps very busy. Busy being adorable. Busy making trouble.

What? You don't believe me?

That's fine. I have plenty of evidence.

On this particular day I'd made some blueberry muffins for a visiting friend. Visiting friend shared muffins with Asher. Visiting friend left. Asher's desire for muffins did not.

"Oh, there's Mom."

"What's she staring at?"

"I should crawl up on the island so I can reach the others. Yeah. That's a good idea."

"Hmm. This fancy leafy paper by Martha is tasty."

After eating the top off the first muffin, Asher tossed it to the side and lunged for more. One for each hand. That move was less successful.

WHY isn't he a MODEL???

2010-11-04T16:56:00.000-05:00

I know we are all asking ourselves this question. And you are always asking me this question.

I understand. I get it. He is quite handsome. And charming. Very charming.

But he is also busy. Very busy.

21 Months ... 21 Months!!!

2010-10-19T22:56:00.000-05:00

Asher,

You are twenty one months now. Well, actually you have been for a couple weeks now. It's so hard to believe how much you've grown and how fast this time has flown. Right now you're sitting in a bar stool next to me eating grapes and string cheese. That's how big you are. Big enough to eat grapes all by yourself and not choke. Even when you shove too many in your mouth at once, which happens quite often. You love to share your food with me. But sometimes if I'm too slow to lean over and get it out of your hand you take it back and shove it in your mouth so fast -- and then you laugh like you've just swindled me and I don't even know it.

You still love hide and seek. You're really good at ducking down under things and you love to scream when you're found. Actually, you love to scream about everything right now. It's very loud and very high pitched. Hide and Seek is especially fun when you think that just by looking away you're hidden. It makes sense though.

You're also a big fan of the water hose. When I water the plants and flowers you run and stand right in the way and get drenched. I love to see you laugh while you do this but I also know we then have to go back inside, towel off, and change clothes, which is slightly less fun.

You love to be in the kitchen, preferably right under my feet or between my legs. Lately you've started hugging one of my legs and it's so sweet. Usually your time in the kitchen is spent in the two big drawers by the stove. You dig out mixing bowls and cake pans and strainers and double boilers and this one heavy LOUD bundt pan (that you are playing with RIGHT now and I already have a headache from it) and one of those rubbery muffin tins. Those rubbery ones are your favorite. You squish the pan down, flip it over and squish it the other way. Sometimes we stir your toys or put them in the muffin tins. You think that is so funny. You also LOVE to crawl up on our bed and mess up all the pillows. I mean, you think you're hiding or being silly, but I think you're just messing it up after I went to all the trouble of making the bed. I still love you because you are so happy when you find yourself successful!

We bought some of those little foam letters and numbers from the bath section at Target and you play with them everywhere. We try to make words but since they are in every room we can only make a few words in each room. In the bath we can only spell bus and jugs. And the number four. You like to hand them out to people and recollect them.

Your Daddy made a giant house for you out of a cardboard box and you hide in it all the time. One day I had to feed you yogurt through one of the windows because you wanted the yogurt AND the house. Who am I not to oblige those sweet brown eyes? Speaking of those eyes, you know how to work them! There is even a cashier that we see weekly who just hangs over the counter and tells you how handsome you are. Every week. Except the week I went without you and I got mean looks and she made me feel like a bad mom for leaving you with your Dad. Sheesh. She is under your spell. It's probably because you say byebye to her one million times and blow her kisses. I'd fall for that, too. You are very liberal with your kisses when you want something ... and other times you tightly hold on to every kiss. You are never stingy when it comes to blowing kisses to yourself in the mirror. I'm a bit worried about your conceit. I mean, we all know you're gorgeous and beautiful and one of God's best creations, but seriously, you don't need to play in front of the mirror all day. We have a full length mirror in our closet and in the entry way and those are your favorite places to play. Lately you've discovered how to make funny faces at yourself. You also like to wave and tell yourself Hi and ByeBye (and of course blow yourself kisses), and see how you look while playing with different toys. (I can't believe I can't find a recent picture of this!!!)

You love playing with the barn that Grandmama gave you for your birthday last year. You love certain songs and play them over and over again. You've started making animal sounds. Your favorites are hoohooheeeheee (monkey), eeeow (cat), heahhh (donkey), and arrrr (lion/tiger/dinosaur). You love when we sing "Old McDonald" because of the sounds and you say e-e-e-e-ooo. (It's so precious.) You've also learned to say Yeehaw when riding the horse at MeMaw and PawPaw's house. You love to slide and slide, climb up the slide and walk down the slide and roll things down the slide.You love to say Mimi and get hung up on saying it over and over and over again. You always go exploring at Papa's house.

You love airplanes and we stop to point out everyone that flies by as we wave and say "byebye". Your love for bubbles knows no bounds.

We took you to a pumpkin patch last week and you went crazy for the little pumpkins! You picked up one and carried it everywhere. You dropped it, spiked it, rolled it down a ramp, sat with it, ran with it, and you still carry it around the house. You like to carry all sorts of things, especially my big camelback water bottle, which you've finally figured out how to drink from. I think we'll have to get you one of your own that's not hot pink. And a bit more your size.

The world absolutely stops and stands still when your favorite show, Word World is on. We dvr it off PBS so you can watch it on Saturday mornings and snuggle with Daddy on the couch (the only time you sit still). Not even food can steal your attention from this show. You like Veggie Tales too because there's lots of singing, but it doesn't hold your attention as well as Word World. Nothing does.

We joke that you have one speed and it's "there he went". You are always going full speed ahead (although lately you like to go backwards, too!) and at church everyone knows you as Asher the Dasher. You are fast and sneaky. And fearless. You have no fear for anything -- not heights, not pools, not girls, not bigger kids, not stairs, not any of the things that leave me breathless, either from fear or from chasing after you or from both. I hope and pray this translates to your faith. I pray you are fearless when chasing after the Lord.

We love you so much and cannot imagine that anyone else anywhere in the world has as much fun as we do with you. I know that there are one thousand other things I want to tell you and want to remember, but I feel typed out. Besides, you're standing here looking at me and I know you want to play, and if I play my cards right, you might sit in my lap for a snuggle or two and I can steal some of those kisses before you realize I've hit my limit.

Pre-Haircut

2010-09-02T23:02:00.000-05:00

Asher had another haircut this week. I was drawing the bath water (why do we draw bath water? or drapes?) and thought to myself, "Self, why are you going to cut his hair leaning over upside down in the bathtub when we have a perfectly good sink at haircut level?" So then I moved chased my naked child to the kitchen.

In honor of Dada and his love for babies with fros, I give you Asher, pre-haircut.

Asher sends his warmest wishes for a fun and safe holiday weekend to all of his fans.
Speaking of his fans, we brought back the fan box in the side bar, so if you'd like, join the official fan club. There are no dues or weird by-laws to worry about. Just do it already. Then you'll always be in-the-know about Asher and all his goings-on. Which is a lot because he is b-u-s-y. So join if you want. But we're not going to beg.

PS, there are still some nifty Africa things available for purchase, and a slew more if my sewing machine would come out of it's strike and stop throwing thread at me.

The Fear Factor

2010-08-26T15:54:00.000-05:00

Are there things you should be doing or want to be doing but just can't get yourself to do?

There is this thing in my life.
I want it. I want to do it. I want to be it. I want it to describe me.
But it's overwhelming.
At times in a good way, at times in a hard way, and in times just too much to carry.

This thing is facing me right now.
It's knocking on my door, not pushy or demanding, but knocking.
And I know I'm going to answer the door.
I know I want to let it in.
But memories and other attachments to this thing give me pause.

It's hard.
This thing is hard!
It requires faith
and waiting
and patience
and dealing with other people who do not "get" this thing.
It's even a little scary.
It's full of the unknown.

But it's also full of good.
And full of hope
and joy
and excitement
and jesus.

Why is it so hard for you to get moving on these things? What struggles are you facing -- and how do you overcome them to continue on? What advice do you have for others who need to take that step? What can you share with me?

on snuggling

2010-08-20T14:27:00.000-05:00

I mentioned awhile back that I'd regrettably not snuggled enough with my son. Since then, at every nap and bedtime opportunity, I've been adding a little snuggle time to our routine. Sometimes he just wants to sit and snuggle. Sometimes we sing silly songs (anyone else completely over the itsy bitsy spider?) or my favorite hymns. Sometimes we pray.

Last night, during our snugglefest, I was telling Asher how much his Mommy loves him.
And how much his Dada loves him.
And his friends and grandparents and aunts and uncles love him.
And even people he's never actually met.
We all love him.

But our loves pale in comparison to the One who loves him.
The One who created him.
The One who dreamed up those long eyelashes,
those wild little curls,
his chubby hands,
his very busy feet,
and put them all together perfectly.
Knit together, piece by perfect piece, into this precious child that I have the honor of loving, too.

In those quiet moments of rest, where Asher looks into my eyes, takes deep breaths, and rests in my arms, I am reminded of the Father's desire for all his children to seek His face,
to bask in His great love,
and to rest in His arms.
No singing necessary,
no prayers to be said.
Just breathing in His righteousness
and resting in His strong and open arms.

NG :: Sneak Attack -- forget etsy. Just come to the blog and read this really long post instead.

2010-08-11T21:50:00.000-05:00

I've been busy sewing and planning and snapping and traveling out of town and back to do more sewing and more planning and such. And I got so excited because I'm ready to list a handful of new things to sell so I can sponsor a child in Korah. And then my dumbputer makes the images too large for etsy and I don't know how to fix it so I'm thinking I might not even put them on etsy, but rather, just tell you. Because really, who else is going to buy them? So here goes.

Disclaimer: I do not claim to have many sewing skills. Nearly everything I know about sewing is self-taught or youtubed. I can promise that each piece is lovingly made and each project finished with tiny hands trying to help. The reason I sew is to financially support and sponsor a child in Korah, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. My son was adopted from Ethiopia. Every single purchase makes a big difference to a child in need.

100% of the purchase price goes to orphan care.

What's made above and beyond my sponsorship will go back into the hands of orphan care programs across Ethiopia.

This helps me to be the hands of Jesus.

Thanks for your support.

Read more about Korah here, here, here, here and the thing that sparked me here.
See many videos here.

Things I'm currently making:

Burpcloth Duos

Africa Tagsies

Binky Links

Some surprises along the way.

Currently Available:

Africa Tagsies: $20

"Finn" Africa Tagsie

(I'm not finished sewing the Africas on yet, but I have about five more nearly done!)

Burpcloth Duos: $15

"Lucy" Burpcloth Duo "Moriah" Burpcloth Duo

"Olivia" Burcloth Duo "Liam" Burpcloth Duo

"Ethan"

Binky Links: $8

These do not come with the binkies, but they do come with personalization!

"Summer Stripe"

"Ainsley"

"Tuck"

"Black and White Stripe" "Elliot"

Brown Giraffe

If you'd like to purchase one of these items listed, or send a special request my way, please email

NIFTYGIFTYS (at) GMAIL (dot) COM. Oh, and prices include shipping, which I'll try to do twice a week. Thanks for reading all this ... and I'll update when I've finished sewing more. And to appease you, I'll throw in a video of Asher and some of his buddies real soon. Love ya!

NG Strikes Back

2010-08-02T14:43:00.000-05:00

Hi friends. Me here. As usual. I'm sure many of you other APs, at least in the Ethiopia group, have been reading all about Korah and seeing videos. And I'm sure many of you have had sleepless nights and trouble reckoning your daily lives to those of the people in Korah. I know I sure have.

Hubband and I have been talking a lot lately, and we want to do more with what we have. Well, we also want to have less, which doesn't really stem from the same place, but God is surely quilting all these pieces together. We've decided to sponsor two children in Korah, and also to find ways to do more from where we are.

Since I stay at home with the cutest baby on earth, I've been praying about something I can do, with what little
"spare" (read as naptime and post-bedtime) time I have. I think it's pretty obvious. Nifty Giftys will be making a comeback. I've been spending time thinking about new products and working on improving what little skills I have so that I can make something that will make a difference. I'm trying to get a header for the etsy shop made and quickly whip up some product so that I'll have something to sell. I'm bringing back the burp cloths (both kinds) as well as the ever popular tagsies and I have some new products up my sleeve. Hopefully. Cross your fingers! Also, if you have some suggestions that don't require too much skill, shoot me a comment or an email or smoke signal or something.

Hopefully I'll be sharing some fun things with you soon -- and hopefully you'll want to purchase something to make a difference.

Nifty Giftys :: Support Orphans and Get Cool Stuff, Too.
{Even the slogan needs improvement. Wait, do we even need a slogan?}

Fun in the Sun :: a post with too many pictures

2010-07-29T15:21:00.000-05:00

Grandmama (my mother) gave Asher a teeny tiny pool of his very own. The day he received it, he didn't really care much for it and would much rather spend all his time traipsing around Pop's big yard of wonderment. I, too, spent much time in that yard when I was young and it is full of wonderment.

We brought the pool home (it's funny to look in your rearview and see a giant giraffe staring at you in rush hour traffic) and set it up on the back porch. Most mornings Asher wakes up, has a fresh diaper and heads to the kitchen for some oatmeal and spoon practice. This generally means a giant mess, which lead to the post-breakfast pool dip. He just play out back in his diaper, rotating from his pool to the dog's bowl. Don't worry, I clean both the pool and the dog's water bowl every day so it's fresh water. Someone (Hi Shara!) kindly pointed out that there were no recent pictures of Asher, so here you go. Enjoy him and all the cuteness he has to offer. Oh, and you're welcome. Oh, and by the way, there are like fourtyseventhousand pictures. You're very welcome. I'll try to keep my comments to a minimum.

See his hand? That's from the bar-be-que pit.

We wave bye bye to all airplanes. So if you fly over us, know we're waving.

This is the day he figured out he didn't need any help to go up or down this little step.

Each up and each down was followed with either "yay!" or "ta dahhhhhhhh" from Asher.

Please tell me you can see the mischief all over this face...

We keep him swimming in those regular diapers ... the weight slows him down just a tad...

And a very very very happy birthday to Daddy today!

Babying My Baby

2010-07-08T13:23:00.000-05:00

It has occurred to me lately, on a nearly daily basis, that my little baby is growing up. He is by no means grown, but he is still much much more than he was only a year ago when we met. It's funny, because Justin and I were apparently both thinking about this yesterday.

Justin called, as usual, on his way home and I did not answer, also as usual. Sometimes I can't get to the phone fast enough, or last night it was still on silent from church, or I'm in the middle of changing a diaper or cleaning up from dinner or whatever the current mess situation. Last night was different though.

I'm not sure why or how, but I stopped rocking Asher before bed. It must have been when he stopped taking a night-time bottle. Ick, just reading that sentence makes me feel like a poor mother. We've always bragged on how easily he goes to bed at night. We just plop him in his bed, hand him his sleeping buddies, turn out the light and leave. So sometime in there the easy became the norm and I find myself missing all those opportunities to rock him and snuggle him and pray over him and be his mommy just a little bit longer. Last night before putting him to bed we sat in our chair and I caressed his curls and rubbed his back. I prayed for more moments like that.

Justin can't wait for him to get bigger. He wants to "do stuff" with him and teach him things and talk with him. I want him to grow up, too. I dream of my baby growing into a strong man of faith and action. A man with his own family and ministry. But if it's alright, I'd like him to be a baby for just a little while longer.

Asher vs. Oatmeal -- Round 4

2010-06-19T10:15:00.002-05:00

We interrupt your previously scheduled posts to bring you this super cute picture where Asher claims his victory over the oatmeal ... spoon or no spoon.

Ethiopia posts returning soon!

one year ago today - 3

2010-06-02T16:29:00.000-05:00

I'm back! Sorry for the delay. Where were we? Oh yes. Sitting in a van on the side of the road. I hope I've made it clear just how excited Justin was by these prospects. We'd been alone at the airport and had to wait about an hour for someone to come and rescue us. We rode -- sans seatbelts -- along the dirt roads of crowded Addis, and then our vehicle quit working right past the city dump. In life, there are situations in which you can either laugh or cry. This was one of them. I chose to laugh. Actually, it's inherent in my genetic makeup. I laugh at everything from break downs in foreign countries to wedding proposals (happy anniversary, honey!) to everything else. I save the crying for movies. I can't help it.

After a short while, our driver happily returned, filled up our gas tank, and continued the drive to our hotel. When we reached our hotel, the staff quickly carried everything up to our room on the third floor. I'd like to point out that it's really the FIFTH floor. In 8000 feet elevation. I'm just saying. We spoke with Almaz on the phone who was so glad we finally made it to Addis and the hotel. She kept apologizing for everything and saying she'd make everything better when we met our son. All I wanted was a shower in our space craft futuristic shower. It had the potential to be awesome or crazy. When I saw the sign to not flush any toilet paper, I decided it was probably just going to be crazy. We did remember to plug in the water heater for that one. I showered and Justin changed clothes and we unpacked a bit and settled in. Almaz called again and said she was down stairs ready to take us to Hannah's Hope. WHAT?! I mean, I secretly hoped that's what she meant when she said earlier that she'd make everything better, but I had chalked it up to the difference in language and nobody ever gets to go early. In fact, when we talked with our case worker at AGCI about traveling early, she specifically said that even if we were there early, we would not be allowed to go to Hannah's Hope. But there was Almaz, patiently and apologetically escorting us up that rocky path.

And there it was. There we were. I remember telling Justin that I felt like such a cheater because we were breaking all the rules! He had absolutely no problem breaking those rules and walking right through that big gate. I was so excited I could hardly contain myself. I might have hopped or skipped instead of walking, I'm not sure. Perhaps I was even floating or flying. I was in such shock and disbelief.

I'd like to interrupt the story at this point (because I'm mean like that) to tell you where we were and what we knew about our baby. We received our referral at the end of January, which is when the lockdown started about taking pictures of kids that did not belong to you. We actually knew a family who traveled the morning after we received our referral and they were not allowed to take any pictures or see him or anything. We went months without hearing anything. He was only three weeks at referral so they kept him in the little baby room, where most people were not permitted. We knew he was getting lots of love and care, but it was killing me to have a picture of a one week old baby who I just knew was growing and getting bigger and bigger by the minute.

One of the AGCI case workers traveled in March (6 weeks post referral) and sent us back three pictures. But he wasn't looking at the camera in any of them. I was so disappointed. Another six weeks passed before another family even saw him. She just happened to send me a picture of her son and I could see mine in the back corner of the blanket. My how he'd changed!!! Then, our dear friends The Hulls, whom we'd raced in the paperwork phase, traveled only two weeks before us and finally, I received photos and info on his little personality. This is the May baby they experienced:

I'm not sure if I can ever tell the Hulls how much we TRULY APPRECIATED the time they spent with our son, kissing on him and taking pictures of him and whispering things of his family -- those moments they shared with him were translated back to us in word and picture and prepared us more for the moment of meeting our son than anything else. If you have the opportunity to meet and spend time with the children of other adoptive parents, please make the most of it. If you've been there you know, and if you're waiting for your turn, prepare your hearts for some big blessings. Ok, enough of that. Back to the story. We walked into Hannah's Hope, up the stairs and into a room on the far right. With pink walls and butterflies. All the Special Mothers smiled at us and one reached out her arms and placed a baby into Justin's hands while I clicked away with our camera. I wasn't even upset that he got him first.

Almaz did finally snap me out of my daze and suggested I give the camera to someone else so I could hold him. Silly me. I'd been preparing for this moment for years and everything I'd prepared for just left me. I mean ... look at him!

Almaz escorted us downstairs to a quiet room with a sofa. We knew we only had a few minutes before his bottle and naptime, but bygolly, we were going to make the most of it. We spent the whole time just trying to get him to smile. And kissing him. And making him smile again. And more kisses. And hugs. And the necessary finger and toe counting. Immediately I knew we were hooked.

I remember thinking, "I want to hold him now!" and also, "Share with Justin. That's his baby, too." It was hard. I loved seeing the love of my life holding our son and laughing and playing ... but I wanted to hold our son and laugh and play, too. It was so hard!! But I did good. Just so you know. : )

We took turns feeding him and rocking him, and eventually he drifted off to sleep. We laid him back in his crib and looked at him as if we had to fill up our eyes and our minds and our hearts with that one glance.

And while I can't prove it, I'm pretty sure that we both just floated back to our hotel.

more tomorrow

one year ago today - 2

2010-05-29T21:11:00.000-05:00

Before we left for Addis, I'd cleaned out the fridge, purchased a bunch of stuff to last the week we were gone so we wouldn't have to run to the store, checked our flight info about a dozen times, packed and repacked, double checked with several families who'd just returned, and stared at my son's picture over and over again.

We'd had some issues getting a flight. We didn't pass our first court date and then all of a sudden we were cleared and scheduled to fly. We wanted to fly Emirates because we could go direct from our local airport to Dubai, spend the night and fly a quick three hour jaunt to Addis. For some reason, we were having the hardest time confirming our travel, through both AGCI and the airline. We really thought we were going to be there several days early or that we'd hang in Dubai for a while. We actually have some friends who are there doing m.ssions work, and we figured it would be a great time to fellowship and encourage one another. Then we realized they were flying back stateside the same time we were flying to Dubai. At what felt like the last minute, we were able to fly out on Thursday (US) and arrive on Saturday (AA). Things were working out.

The night before we left, we ordered some takeout and settled in for our last night in our home as just the two of us. I'm sure we watched a movie. Or repacked a suitcase. Or both. As we fought over the last fortune cookie, we discovered a sweet little message meant just for us -- that would be true both literally and figuratively. : )

When it was finally time to leave, Justin's mom (who had recently moved to our 'hood) picked us up, watched us load all our bags, and drove us to the airport. I remember lots of small talk and it seemed odd to me that we were acting like it was just any other day.

We unloaded everything onto our luggage cart and posed for a quick picture. I'm not sure why all our luggage isn't in the picture. We were so blessed by the young adult group at church that it took us, and two other families to carry all the donations. We managed to pack all our stuff plus baby stuff and a few more donations into one smaller bag. I know that everyone said to spread your stuff out, but I packed up the donations weeks early because they were taking over my house and I didn't want to get to Hannah's Hope and have to sift through our undies to get to the last package of diapers. I just went on blind faith that all our luggage would arrive with us and that if it didn't, we'd manage somehow.

The flight to Dubai from Houston is about 16.5 hours ... in the air. That doesn't count the hours it was delayed that we sat in the terminal, just a few minutes from the comfort of family (and their oversized couches) or the time on the tarmac, or the hour it took for our plane to be taxied to some plane graveyard in Dubai where we deplaned. Emirates was by far the most comfortable international flight I'd ever been on. Plus they have like one million movies you can watch and even regular ol' TV. Justin had never traveled internationally before and I tried to prep him as much as I could... but there's really only so much you can do. I managed to get some sleep on the plane, and my hubband who can generally sleep anywhere, anytime, did not. We landed in Dubai sometime in the evening but by the time we walked the seventyelevenmillion miles to our hotel bus (on the opposite side of Dubai, apparently) it was around nine so we headed to our room and figured we'd just shower and hit the sack.

By this time, I'd already begun to regulate my schedule to Addis time. Justin did not. This will come back to bite him throughout the trip. We don't look too bad for eighteen + hours on a plane, huh? We both slept through the night and woke up early the next morning to meet our bus back to the airport (and trek through the airport) at 6am Dubai time. We got on the plane, we flew, we landed in Ethiopia. Yay! We made it!!!

This is the view out the front of the Addis Ababa International Airport. Fancy. So, we arrived, and I'd taken note of everyone's suggestions so we went straight to the immigration line as fast as I could drag Justin. We were about the fifth and sixth person in line. They do everything by hand. There are computers though. They are sitting on the ground behind the little desks where the guys sit and handwrite everything. Somehow Justin and I were separated and about ten people went between us because you go to one desk and pay your money and then you get out of the way and another desk writes your receipt. Well, when they kept passing the receipts, they were stacked on top of each other and Justin's was apparently at the very bottom. When we got out of the closet where all this important paperwork takes place, we were so glad to see our luggage all waiting for us -- and that all the other silly people who got their luggage first were now standing in a super long line that we were no longer part of. And, did I mention, HALLELUJAH that all our luggage made it? Excellent.

My notes said next to just follow the crowd into the next space ... which is the front of the airport where you should be met with someone who will have a sign for you to take you to AGCI. This is where the fun really started. There was no such person. For those of you who have the awesome privilege of knowing my dear, sweet hubband, you know how much fun this really was. Let me assure the rest of you that this is Justin's deepest hope and dream: to travel to a third world country, not speak the language, have no mode of transportation, no idea where you're going, and no currency. And a ton of luggage. And a wife who thinks this is hilarious. Yep. He was thrilled. So I did what I do in these types of situations. I just walked off. Left my poor hubband standing there in the airport with all our luggage while I went and talked to random people. I met another adoptive family who was using a different agency and their driver had no idea where AGCI was. Or Hannah's Hope. Or had even heard of it. See, one of the coolest things about Addis is that there are no street names. Or real addresses. It's super fun. A baggage handler hung around us a lot and I asked to use his phone to call Almaz, the director in Addis. No answer. Awesome. More eyerolling from hubband.

I talked to another random Ethiopian fellow and discovered that he was someone we knew. Well, knew of. Another family had traveled and mentioned that he was an excellent guide. He was picking up someone else, but said he'd take us too if we needed. I asked to borrow his phone and called Almaz again, but no answer. I am starting to think we'll just ride with the guide and eventually get where we're going. It's early in the afternoon so there's plenty of time.

But wait, here comes our luggage guy, running through the people with his phone. It's Almaz! She is really glad to hear we're alive. Well, that's slightly alarming. Apparently in all our wire crossing and international correspondence and flight rescheduling, AGCI thought we were arriving in Addis on Friday. They'd been at the airport the day before and never found us. AGCI had called us at home, with no answer and all had assumed we were lost traveling the planet. She assured us that someone would come to pick us up. We just had to sit and wait ... and "talk to no one". Ummm. Ok.

We stopped at the snack bar and had a drink and decided to wait outside because the weather was awesome. Seriously, awesome. It was a billion percent humidity in Houston when we left, we'd been to Dubai where it was like two hundred degrees everywhere, and now it was a sunny, breezy, pleasant 72. Almaz's brother came to our rescue. Danny, their regular driver, was off and so he had come with a friend. We get into the van, complete with fur- lined dashboard, hole in the floorboard, and giant picture of the virgin Mary, and head off to our hotel.

Then our van stops. "Ooops! Out of gas!" the friend yells with a smile. Apparently this happens often. This is where we stopped. The driver jumped out of the car, reached for a gas can, jumped on the back of a passing vehicle, and disappeared. I turned to my wonderful hubband and laughed. I believe my words were somewhere along the lines of, "Well, God certainly has a sense of humor, and he just wants to make sure that we are having lots of fun." So we did. The above is a picture out the van window where we stopped. There was a wreck on the "highway" so someone had placed giant bolders in the entrance lanes so you couldn't drive. There were people and traffic everywhere. And we were sitting, trying to laugh, as we waited for our driver to come back.

to be continued...

one year ago today

2010-05-29T12:03:00.000-05:00

We just landed in Addis.

Our baggage was all there, the line was short, and we were excited.

There was nobody to pick us up.

But that's a story I'll share later tonight.

For now, I'll just tell you that we had a tumultuous afternoon, and it all ended with a special treat.

A treat so special, we weren't allowed to tell because everyone would be jealous.

We were able to meet our son.

TWO WHOLE DAYS EARLY.

Go ahead and be really jealous. I'll be back later to explain.

Asher Vs. Oatmeal -- Round Three

2010-05-17T14:20:00.000-05:00

cupcake mistake

2010-05-07T00:35:00.000-05:00

I have these fun things called in-laws.
Maybe you have them, too.
Well, probably not mine because, well, we would have an issue as my hubband is an only child and we all know what that means.
If you so happen to have in-laws, and a child, you know that means grandparents ... and you know where I'm going with this.

Mimi and Grandpa (aka Grumpy) like to bring my boy "prizes". Once upon a time I received prizes, but no longer. I'm not important any more. (Again, if you have children and in-laws, you know where I'm coming from.) I also want to mention that I think it's so funny they are called prizes and not presents. A prize suggests winning. And if grandparents bring grandchildren prizes, does that mean they are brainwashing him to think he's won the grandparent lottery?

I mean, he has, but still.

Where was I? Oh yes. Grandparents. Prizes. On one such grandparent prizing occasion, Asher received a cupcake as a prize. Lucky kid. (I received no such cupcake.) The funny thing about prizes for grandchildren is that often, not always, but often, a prize for the grandchild ends up being a terrible punishment non-prize for me.

Here is the evidence of one such occasion.

Guess who had the "prize" of cleaning that mess? I'll give you three guesses, but you'll only need one.

Super Secret Hair Goodness

2010-04-27T13:05:00.000-05:00

I had no idea SO many of you would be interested in my super secret beautiful amazing hair secret. Ok fine, really you want Asher's super-amazing-beautiful-soft-no-crying-when-combing-his-hair secret. Fine. Be that way.

Background: Not too long ago I ran across an article talking about natural body care. Stuff like going 'poo free. And it interested me. Not just because I think it would be funny to say 'poo free all the time. I mean, that would be fun, but that's not the point. In my actual research I learned all sorts of things about how bad most cleaning agents are for your hair or your skin or the earth.

I also have this tiny idea that God probably gave us everything we need way back in the garden of Eden, and again, I guess, after the great flood. So I don't think we need a bunch of weird stuff we can't pronounce or spell to keep us clean or healthy or happy. (I am still enjoying the occasional Starbucks beverage or packaged and processed sweet, but I'm trying more and more to stick with natural stuff. )

Enter my adorable son. Oh wait, what? You need a picture? Ok. Here.

You see, he has adorable hair. It's soft and has the tightest curls I've ever seen. Which makes it a beast when wet and when it needs to be combed out. You know, because there's dirt or frosting or any other random assortment of yuck in it. And we spend a lot of time cuddling, so I want it to smell good. We'd been using all the Aveeno products as recommended, but his hair felt dry and crunchy sometimes. And in between washings it was nearly impossible to work with it at all. I'm talking big-giant-sad-face-tears here people. The kind you can't ignore.

So I started researching for alternatives. You can do that too, if you want, and you'll never want to shampoo or soap yourself or your children again. I can tell you some yucky things. Instead, I'll skip that and get to the good stuff. You can make your own natural stuff for your kid. And it will work better than anything else and be good for him and not cost you a fortune. Sound good? Of course it does.

Are you ready for the recipe? You are? Ok.
One cup of water and one tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
Put it in a spray bottle from the dollar store. Shake it up.
You're done.
No joke.

I use lemon juice because we were out of the APV the first time I made it, and lemon just says clean to me somehow (but I have used the APV, too and it works just as well). I also add some lavender essential oil because I love it and I have it and since we cuddle all the time, I thought it couldn't hurt. I spray this in his hair until it's damp/wetish and just comb through. It is so easy that many times my child does not even realize I am combing his hair. Did you read that? You other APs know what I'm talking about. Some of you sheared your children's heads because their hair was so much work. And they are so cute bald, but if you want to try this, it is awesome. I also use this in between baths when his hair just needs a little "reworking" from where someone has rubbed all over it because it's so darn adorable.

My husband is hooked on it, too. I also use it, just in a little different way.

Walk yourself into your kitchen, make some up and try it out. You will not regret it. I already convinced two other APs to try it and here's what they said:

"AMAAAAAAAZING!!!!!! I have been looking for a hair solution for P for months now and everything on the market seems to leave his hair greasy and not really moisturized. After one use, his hair is soft, shiny, detangled, and not greasy!

I too have a love affair with lavender and added a bunch of drops to the solution. THANK YOU THANK YOU!!! You're right, God did give us all we need in the beginning. I am thrilled. Now we can get back to letting him grow an awesome 'fro b/c we don't have to worry about tangles."

"CONVERT!!!!!!!!!! Tried it and loved it, who wudda thought?? I thought lemon juice was really drying, but it's really not."

So there you have it. I also made Asher some "soap" that I love way way more. And I don't have to use lotion anymore. Yeah. That's what I'm talking about. And wow, I can't believe how much this sounds like an infomercial. So please try it out, and let me know what you think. Or if you need more info, let me know. I'm a complete convert and we will never go back. : )

And here's another picture if you read all that.

for your viewing pleasure

2010-04-20T00:06:00.000-05:00

You are going to want some volume on this. This is going to make your day. Times two. It's like a two-scoop sundae. Or a double dip. Double goodness. That's how much we love you. Enjoy.

(P.S. These are uploaded to YouTube so you can go back to them over and over and over again. Heck, you can even embed them yourself and send it to everyone you know. Asher can be an internet star. And did you know that with enough hits, YouTube will actually pay us? Wouldn't that be cool? Go ahead. Copy the link and send it to every. single. person. you. know. We'll let you know when the money trucks start showing up.)

Waiting :: Suddenly

2010-04-18T00:15:00.000-05:00

A while back I wrote a post about waiting.

Tonight I heard some good news. My sweet friend had been waiting to see two pink lines.

And she did.

Then I stumbled upon this post from this blog and it all made sense.

I challenge you to share this with someone today.

You know someone who needs it!

wowzers

2010-04-01T03:26:00.000-05:00

Well, so it's been nearly a month since my last post. Sorry about that. We've been a little distracted. And by distracted, I mean focused elsewhere. I'd like to write a post about that, but just not right this minute. Actually, I'd like to be sleeping at this minute {3:14am} but can't seem to make my mind stop. Terrible thing, to have a mind that is working when it should be dreaming.

The weather has been amazing here. {Sidenote: remember when you were younger and thought it was so weird that old people always talked about the weather? So, now if I'm talking about the weather, does that mean I am old? I still don't watch the news or actually check the temperature, so I'm not really old, right? Right!???!} It's been so amazing that Asher and I play outside most everyday. Even if that playing is spent keeping Asher from running away while I water the flowerbeds. {Ack, I'm watering flowerbeds? I really am getting old older.} And believe you me, that is plenty of work play. It's making me want to reclaim our backyard and put in plusher {plusher is a word} grass and be poop free and plant pretty flowers and bushes and have no poop and maybe a swingset (without poop, of course) and some comfy patio furniture and remove all the poop so when I install fans they won't just blow around the smell of poop. Before you panic too much that our sewage or plumbing is broken, don't worry your pretty little heads too much. It's not. It's just that our dogs are not toilet trained. Housebroken yes, toilet trained no. (Isn't housebroken a funny term when you really think about it? Shouldn't it be housefixed when they stop going inside?? I'm just saying.)

Where was I? Oh yes. Nice weather. And playing. And my cute son. Oh? You don't know who I'm talking about? You've forgotten how absolutely adorable he is? Well, well then. Let me refresh your memory with a few little pictures from his Easter shoot. But only a few. More to come whence Easter is fully upon us. : )

Enjoy.
And yes, you're welcome.

cracked pots

2010-03-02T12:26:00.000-06:00

My friend Christina has a knack for killing stuff. Mostly plants. Ok, maybe only plants. At least, as far as I know. She bought these cute pots from PB some time ago and had them grouped on top of her ancient entertainment center. They made even that beast look good. It only makes sense then thatI had been secretly lusting after them. She finally gave up the ghosts of those poor, defenseless, innocent plants, chunked them in the trash, and showed up at my house one day with the pots. Yes!

Did I mention that I live with toddler? Who is excellent, particularly, at toddling. And so we had an accident.

Cracked pots.

Realistically, shattered in some places. Who knew that a four foot fall onto the floor would have that effect? No amount of glue-gunning was going to fix this. I had to find the super glue. Key word: find. Who even uses that stuff anymore? Apparently not my hubband because this is the conversation that transpired:

H: So, I see you're using super glue.

Me: Mmmm hmmm. {Hummed in a "I already know what you're thinking!" tone.}

H: How is it going? Does it work?

Me: What do you mean, does it work? Haven't you used it before?

H: Nope. Why would I?

That made me snicker. Why on earth would you try to put something back together that is so clearly broken? In fact, why am I trying to put something together that is shattered and will obviously look "repaired" and not perfect -- without blemish -- as before?

Because I love these pots. And I want to keep them and have them even if they have hunks missing and obvious blemishes and I know that they will probably never actually function the same again. I still want them!

And then it hit me.

I'm a cracked pot, too. I am broken and glued a lot. I have glue stuck to parts of me and am missing chunks in others. We all need a little glue, a little time, and someone with a little love to put us back together again.

And while people can see that we're broken, and while we may never work quite the same again, it's worth it, right? I'm worth it. You're worth it. They're worth it.

Even if we're cracked pots, we can still be used.
We can still be useful.
We can still be beautiful.

We belong to Someone. And He loves us so much that He wants to keep us, too, even if we're completely broken and look useless. Even if we think there's no hope in sight. He loves us that much, to pick us up, put us back together, and use us for something beautiful. We are His gifts to Himself. And I am so thankful for that!

{I'm linking this post to Tuesdays Unwrapped at Chatting with the Sky. Go and unwrap something beautiful there.}

Asher Blogs

2010-02-26T07:46:00.000-06:00

Hi guys. Me Asher here.

Oh, there you are. Nice to see you.

I'm excited because Mom said I can start blogging now. Without her.

I mean, I'll still ask her permission because I am the perfect child.

At least I want her to think that so she's looking the other way while I'm getting into trouble.

Because what fun is life without a little trouble?

Exactly.

Yeah. I know you know what I'm talking about.

I'll let you in on a little secret. When I'm at the park, and the conditions are perfect ...

I try to eat mulch.

What?

It's organic.

Uh oh.

Gotta run. Mom's coming.

I'll be back soon.

blurry fun at the park

2010-02-25T08:16:00.000-06:00

Friday we went to Ikea, where Asher told me {in not so subtle language} that he does not love Ikea as much as I do. Which is sad, because he's been before and didn't tell me that then. Anyway, as some sort of plead with him to like Ikea again, I promised him a trip to a park. Good thing we have a GPS! We found one right down the road and went and played.

Life is always much better after playtime. This is actually the first time he's actually laughed out while enjoying the baby bucket. He's been in them before, but he either stares at his feet, or watches drool hang from his lip to the ground or tires of it easily. But on that glorious Ikea day, He laughed and I pushed him pretty high. Well, pretty high for a 13 month old, in my own opinion.

Sorry the picture is wonky/janky/distorted but I took it with my iPhone and there's a bit of a delay and he was swinging pretty fast. It took several attempts and when I finally did get a good one, I also laughed out loud and immediately emailed it to everyone I could think of. Sorry I didn't think of you then. Forgive me?

Asher's day got infinitely better as we went to Grandmama's after this and he had a HUGE cookie. He sat in her lap for half an hour calmly licking one side, then the other. {He licked the cookie, not Grandmama.} Then he went to Willie's with some grandparent-type people where he was smothered {with both food offerings, waves, and blown kisses} to his heart's content. He had three chicken fingers, half a cup of puffs, six packages of crackers, a fruit cup, and many many fries.

the results are in

2010-02-24T07:53:00.000-06:00

Well, the voting is finished. Lots of you told me you voted! Yay for you. Thanks for putting up with me and my blogging issues.

It turns out, more than 75% of you are adoption-related readers. I was kinda surprised by this! I really thought we had more friends and family, but I'm also thinking a lot of them didn't vote. {Shame on you silly people.} This means a lot of this content will remain adoption related. I think. At least, that's what the statistics say should be on the blog. One of you said you were not adoption-related, and not a friend or family, and not a stranger. So now I am trying to think if that makes you a non-friend ... unfriend ... or an alien. Or maybe a zombie. If you are a zombie, please let me know because Justin has been waiting to meet a zombie for a really long time. It will be great. I promise.

The amazing thing is that hardly any of you (only 2) wanted all adoption related stuff ... so that is great, because I like to talk/write about all sorts of stuff. And now I feel like you will be less disappointed with me. There are a handful of you though (20%) who said they wanted more pictures of Asher and less of me talking. You are going to be disappointed. There will still be pictures of Asher. Don't worry. The world. Would. Stop. if we stopped taking pictures. But I'm afraid there will probably be more talking. And after the positive response to my all writing no pictures of Asher post, I'm ok with it and it will maybe happen more often. I have a lot of stuff like that all bottled up waiting to come out. Good thing, because I'm holding the three quarters of you who said you're completely smitten with GGG and devour everything here. So please keep coming back. And sending nice emails and comments. Those go a long way with me.

Here are some things coming up to look out for--
1. More updates more often: I am really looking forward to this now that I feel like I can color outside the lines of just adoption stuff. It's my blog, but for some reason I felt I needed permission. It's probably inherited from my perfect childhood and teenager-domness years. Yep. That's my story.
2. Our actual time in Ethiopia: It occurred to me recently that I never actually blogged about that. So hip hip hooray for something all of you will like. Me talking + lots of cute pictures of Asher.
3. More posts from my heart: I'm in pruning season. {This will be explained more fully in an upcoming post, but if you're dying for a head's up, check out John 15.}
4. Asher blogs: Yep. You read that right. Stay tuned for a series {yes, a series!!!} of blog posts written by Asher himself. It's going to be a great way to get to know him better. He's really excited about it.
5. Labels: You might not think this is very exciting, but if you're looking for all the posts about waiting, days at the park, or words only {yeah right, nobody is going to search for those!} then you'll be able to locate them much easier. This is going to be a big project for me, but I'm going back to the beginning and labeling each and every post. Just for you. Because you love Asher. And put up with me.
6. Sneak Peeks: It might be a sneak into part of our day, part of our weekend, or part of our next big plan, because nell ann likes to hold stuff over you we like to show a little love to our fan club. Ok, fine. Asher's fan club.

And because I feel like maybe you stuck with me and read this whole post, the next one will have pictures as your reward. I'm big into rewards. Real big.

shutting doors

2010-02-22T11:40:00.000-06:00

We try to give the manchild a little freedom here in our house. He can wander through most of it most of the time. It's a little hard for me to deal with sometimes, but I am adjusting. Slowly.

We keep our bedroom door closed because we can't see him if he goes in there. And if he goes in there, he's headed for the bathroom. One of his favorite games is to empty out all of Mommy's drawers. We play this game everyday while Mommy gets ready, and well, there's nothing dangerous {is mousse dangerous?} and it keeps him right under my feet so I know where he is. But it's not fun to walk into the bathroom ... to this ...

We also keep the front bathroom closed because he likes to try and get into the bathtub or eat the little plastic covers from the toilet {you know, the thing that covers the bolts on the floor?}. Yuck.

Also the laundry room. He likes to crawl through piles, resort laundry, pull things out of the dryer, open the door, close the door, etc.

Oh, and the pantry. He can't reach his snacks, but there are lots of other ways for him to get in trouble, so we've been practicing closing doors.

He'll walk up to the pantry if it's open and I'll ask him to close it, and he will, and we are all happy because he's such a good helper. Same with the dryer. When I'm done putting things in {and reputting the things that he's taken back out} then he gets to close the door.

Problem: I leave his bedroom door open so he can grab a toy or look out the window or whatever. It's his room, he should be able to play in there, right? Twice already this morning and once yesterday he's gone into his room, seen the open door, and closed it. Then he's not very happy because he's in there by himself and can't open the door.

Maybe we need a little doggy door so he can escape?
Bad idea.

if you're waiting...

2010-02-18T13:09:00.000-06:00

It's no secret that I keep a prayer journal. Well, maybe it was unknown to you, but it's not anymore. I often go back through and have myself a little looksie. Today, I wanted to see what I was praying about a year ago. We'd already received our referral, but we still hadn't heard a court date I don't think. When we did receive our court date, I was terribly upset because it was so far away. Most of the families with referrals right around ours had much closer court dates, and we were in for a long wait. I had been studying about worship and what true worship meant, and how we can worship through any situation in our life. I stumbled across an entry during this time period, and it made me think of some of you who are waiting. So I'm going to gird myself in bold courage, and share some of my deepest moments with the Lord.

March 11, 2009

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. --Psalm 27:14

You say, I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge uprightly." --Psalm 75:2

It is 54 days until our court date for Elyas, Lord and I am choosing to wait for you. I will be strong. I will put my hope in you; in you who deserve all my faith. I will praise you because You are strong. You can handle my issues. Father, it is you who is in charge of time. Your timing is perfect. You choose the perfect time. Your judgment is righteous. I trust you, God, and you alone. I give you this boy and his life and his future. They always have been and always will be yours. You remember him. You love him. You protect him.

You, Lord, are full of glory. You sit on a throne of praise. You are holy, so holy. You are God. You deserve praise and are worthy of our worship. We worship you alone. We repent to prepare our hearts for time with you.

Thank you for your peace. Lord, I know we could not have made it this far without you. Thank you for providing an agency and social workers. Thank you for our beautiful son, and the promise of family. Thank you for adoption, both in our family and into yours. Father, I am so excited to go on this journey with you. I am excited to see where you want to take this family and how we'll see you work in the world. I pray Lord that I always give you the glory. PRAISE YOU GOD for all that you've done. PRAISE YOU for all that you're going to do. We praise you because of who you are.

For those of you waiting for referrals, for court, or that short wait to travel --

be strong

take heart

and know that Lord is never late.

He is never surprised by the outcomes of court.

He is never unaware of how you feel.

He never forgets your child.

The Lord longs to be gracious to you;

he rises to show you compassion.

For the Lord is a God of justice.

Blessed are all who wait for him!

-- Isaiah 30:18

Dedication :: A Huge Picture Post

2010-02-16T07:58:00.000-06:00

I know what you're all thinking. Finally! She's going to post some pictures from that big party! Sheesh! Took her long enough. Well, fooey on you, because it took me about ten million years to narrow down the choices (yes, this is actually narrowed down!) and also another billion million years to upload them all to blogger. Holy Moly. So, shut your traps sit back and enjoy the show. (And my dumb comments, or you may ignore them if you prefer.)

Yep. Lots of food. Good stuff.

(Sidenote: I ate those lemon bar leftovers all by myself, as evidenced on my left and right thighs.)

Love this little guy. He's all clean and ready to party.

Somehow, all the menfolk ended up babysitting. Hmmm. How to make that happen again???

MeMaw and Grandmama

Asher's very own cake.

There was a little hand holding.

And a little smoochin.

We are blessed. (Oh, and check out that fancy mantlepiece.)

We had the ceremony in our yard, in front of our family, friends, neighbors and the whole world.

This is our cousin, Jason. He officiated. It was sunny.

I'm pretty sure this is everybody. There were a few stragglers who came in late, so they aren't pictured.

Time for the good stuff. Dig in.

Asher's very first ever cake!!!

He liked to ooze it between his fingers.

One bite and he's already comatose.

Then we see the shove method kick in.

I do not like this hat! This hat is distracting from my focus on the cake!!

Eh, well, I'm going to have to be more focused.

With the hat out of the way, cake gets in the hair. Just like everything else.

I love you PawPaw Earl, but don't even think you're getting any of my cake.

Pure cakey bliss.

Mimi and Grandpa

(Special thanks to Grandpa because he is the only one who helped Mommy clean me up.

And boy did I need some cleaning!!!)

More smoochin.

Still hungry.

That cake (and all the food I had before the cake) did not fill me up.

I have hollow legs, I'm telling you! Don't judge me!

Thanks for coming to my party! Or for looking at all of these pictures. If this wasn't enough, you can actually see all 215 photos on facebook (in two albums). Thanks! Oh, and if you haven't voted (in the top right corner, two different polls) then please do so! Consider this post and all these pictures your thank you and reward.

Another special thank you to Starshine Photography for all these great shots (and the rest on FB). Tracy is a complete joy to work with and her hubband is fun, too. {Some of these photos are on the website!}

seven things

2010-02-12T10:45:00.000-06:00

This post was originally written August 2009, but for some reason was never published. Bummer. Here you go anyway. Lucky you.

Here are some seven things about our boy:

(I picked seven because he's seven months old...)

Likes:

1. Fruit

2. Lotion (twice a day)

3. Bathtime and Splashing

4. Sleeping in his carseat

5. Snuggling

6. The Itsy Bitsy Spider

7. Jumping

Dislikes:

1. Meat flavor baby food

2. Not being able to see Mommy or Dada, but still hear their voice

3. Losing his pacifier in the middle of the night

4. That's all. He's super happy.

5. Hate me.

6. It's not my fault.

7. I prayed for him to be happy. And God answers prayer. : )

Favorite Toys:

1. Mommy

2. Dada

3. Johnny Jump Up

4. Exersaucer

5. Photobook of Mommy and Dada

6. Links

7. Stackable Donuts

Best Ways to Make Him Laugh

1. Tickling!

2. Smiling really big

3. Singing Itsy Bitsy Spider

4. Blowing on his belly

5. Squeezing his thighs

6. Playing Peek-A-Boo

7. Changing his diaper

oatmeal :: take 2

2010-02-11T10:03:00.000-06:00

Remember when I became the funnest mom ever? Yeah, me too. Anyway, here, as promised, is a post chock full of pictures. {Warning: this post contains nudity. Well, none that you will see, but beware, just the same.}

Enter oatmeal.

Yep. That was fun. We all know what happens next.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Enter bath.

Survey Says

2010-02-11T02:10:00.000-06:00

Stick with me folks, this one is important.

1.) I've been doing a LOT of thinking about this little blog. Who reads it, what they like to read {ok, I know you usually only want to see pictures} and what I want to blog about. So, if you don't mind, we're going to have a little survey. Please check the upper right corner and check the box(es) that apply to you.

2.) While we're at it, I know one of the benefits of reading, commenting, blogging in the adoption world is for support, so if you are a fellow adopter or adoptee or have some place in the adoption world and you read this blog, please introduce yourself and I'll add a link to your blog in my sidebar. Plus, maybe we can be friends. We're always up for making new friends.

3.) This blog is going to change. It might be a little or it might be a lot, depending on your responses. Please respond! I'm told all the time about people who read this and I have no idea! I know some of my mother's co-workers read this (and send her lovely notes, too!) and I know several of you at BB (hi Mimi and friends!) read this ... and apparently lots of our distant relatives (unbeknownst to me) and probably more. You can leave a comment, there's an anonymous option, but we'd love to know who you are. We enjoy giving shout outs. (Hi Emilie and Boston!) Can't you tell? Wouldn't you love to see your name in lights? Or have your very own post dedicated to you? Don't be shy. Just do it.

4.) I promise promise promise to post more pictures. In fact, as soon as I finish this post I'm going to do another post full of pictures as a reward for your voting. Please go chime in on the poll. You can do that completely anonymously. And I'm rewarding you with a beautiful post full of pictures of my cute (and somewhat messy) baby. It will be posted at 10:03am. Promise. And I'll keep posting. But you have to vote. Otherwise you have no right to complain when I change up this here blog to suit my liking and those who voted.

5.) Because I'm feeling wild and crazy tonight, I've created another poll, also anonymous, about the content. Answer that one, too. And no, I'm not going to give you any pictures until I see some votes. So go vote. And come back tomorrow morning at (or after) 10:03am when there will be a post with pictures. But vote first. Thank you.

6.) I never promised I wouldn't be pushy. Sorry. Sometimes I'm bossy but my real friends love me anyway. : )

276

2010-02-06T16:47:00.000-06:00

Friday was a great day. Many of our adoption friends were in the area and we all were able to get together and play. Two of the Hulls made it to Houston from Brownwood, Tx while Molly was touring a college, and nine of the ten Wrights drove in from Louisiana. Our three families met at Culver's for lunch, and then made the drive to Hockley to visit the Fowler Family and meet TWO MORE families with lovely Ethiopian children. (So good to meet you Sara and Rose and Rob!) All SIX of our families have used AGCI and several of our kids were there together. Between their overlapping ages and what not, nearly all of them would have been there at some point with at least one other. I know that Asher was there with several of them. They were very excited to all be together.

276 is the actual number of pictures I took. 273 is the number that came out blurry. These kids were so busy playing! Not one of them was really willing to stand still for a picture. I mean, they all smiled for me -- but more likely it was because I was chasing them around with a camera, dodging toddling toddlers and big kids on wheeled things and all sorts of crashing. It was glorious. All of us thought so. Here are just a few shots to show our fun. Like I said, tons of them were blurs -- and then my battery died. I am kicking myself because after all the hard playing there was a lot of sweet snuggling. I'll do better next time, I promise!

"Look, no hands!!!"

"Why are you still trying to take my picture? Can't you tell I'm politely trying to avoid this?"

Henry had the best time looking for things (or people) to crash into!

Sweet Elizabeth couldn't have her picture taken enough.

She always has one of these huge smiles ready for you!

This is one of TWO pictures I have of Finn standing still.

Abigail thought it was hilarious that I got this close.

Matthew was too busy for me.

Jonathan's tire was flat.

Sweet Ellie pushed him around for a long time, but here he is just hollering for someone to help him!

Daddy to the rescue!

This is precious Nora. Look at those lashes!

This is the only smile I got from Giddy. Then my camera died. Which is ok, because then he was my new best friend. Giddy is an excellent snuggler!!

And this is what my boy Asher did.

He found a big patch of mud.

Later he found a big fun puddle and soaked his britches.

He spent his time outside trying to avoid adults and responsible children who tried to keep him from said mud and puddles.

I think he's going to be

a l l b o y.

It was an amazing day with you and we hope to all get together again very soon!!!

adopt a what?

2010-02-01T15:14:00.000-06:00

Have you seen this? Check it out.

It poses an interesting question about Jesus:

Are you using Jesus to promote your interests --

Or are you using your interests to promote Jesus?

And because I feel like I tricked you, here's a picture of my baby, too:

Referral Anniversary!

2010-01-29T16:34:00.000-06:00

One year ago today, we received the call and saw this face for the first time.

Soon-to-be Baby Galindo was three weeks old.

I could hardly believe my ears.

Then I could hardly believe my eyes.

Read about our amazing day in this post, and here, and finally here, as we continued to share the news.

(I know, it's a little ridiculous that I spread it out into three posts, but I reread them just now -- and they are so fun! Get your tissues ready.)

dedication sneak peek

2010-01-11T10:24:00.001-06:00

Thank you to all who made it out for Asher's Dedication {and part birthday party} Saturday. It was amazing. The weather warmed up just enough for us to be outside some and there was a ridiculous amount of food there as evidenced by the fact that we all ate the whole day and yet my fridge is still overflowing with left overs. I am not complaining about that. I may not cook all week.

Most the grandparents were there, as well as one great grandparent. We also had one million babies/kids. Ok, maybe only one thousand, from less than two weeks old {Asher's future wife} to "almost nine". We had friends from far away come in and friends from right across the street. We had a full house and a full day of amazing people, totally scrumptious food, and complete awareness of the blessings in our life.

{More pictures coming. This is just your sneak sneak peek. You will not believe what this boy did with that cake.}

Dedication

2010-01-03T23:55:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends and Family and strangers who read this blog.

This is your friendly reminder that THIS SATURDAY {January 9th} is our little guy's Baby Dedication {and small birthday celebration}.

Please consider this your reminder. Or if this is the first you're hearing of it, you either don't pay attention or the person in charge of spreading the gossip to you has failed. I'll rat them out and you can yell at them all you want.

Please don't be offended if you didn't get your invitation. That's because nobody did. I ordered them. {What kind of mother do you think I am?} They arrived all janky and unsendable. Then there was not enough time to re-order, re-ship, and mail. I felt so defeated. And sad.

But you're still invited.
So email me if you need details.
I'm not putting them on the blog for strangers {and or psycho killer type people} so they can show up and murder us all by spiking the celebratory punch we'll all be drinking.

Please come. We have a professional photographer coming. We want your face in our memories. And your funness in our home.

Thank you.
This is a service message brought to you by the letter P {for please, and party} and by the number 9 {which is the day of the party.}

He's going to look really sad if you're not there.

How can you say no to this face???

Are you heartless?

christmas recap

2010-01-03T15:17:00.000-06:00

I promise there are more photos coming. I am uploading and editing {and deleting!} as you read. Probably still, even if you're reading this months from now. New baby = one billionmilliontrillion pictures. Trust me.

But this one. This picture needed to be seen today. I know it's blurry. I'm actually squeezed between about forty people trying to see my son and then rescue him from the family Santa. Santa was fine when he road up on his three wheeled bicycle. Santa was dandy as he walked by and said his best "ho ho ho". Santa was, however, very bad terrible no good awful upon closer inspection. Even if he was bearing presents.

More cute {and in focus} pictures coming!
Happy New Year!!!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T17:31:00.000-06:00

From our blessed family to yours ::

Have a Merry Merry Christmas!!!

Love,

The Galindo Family

I Can't Believe

2009-12-17T13:38:00.001-06:00

San Antonio 2005

It's been five years. Man, sometimes that seems like so long ago, and then other times I think that is the blink of an eye. Or two eyes. Unless only one of yours blinks. But that's actually winking.

The night he proposed -- Babin's 12-17-05

Five years ago today, I went on the first date with this grouchy boy who demanded suggested that I drive to his side of town. And I got in trouble. And I was a mess.

The following morning at church when he told everyone and they all cried. Everyone but Santa. He's always jolly.

You see, originally, he was going to be right down the street from me, playing in his garage band with his buddies. {You may laugh. It's ok. He has a snarky comeback.} But like lots of things, with garage band buddies, it was cancelled last minute so he was no longer driving the 45+ miles to my side of town.

Fredericksburg, Texas March 2006

Then the demands started. I should just drive one million miles out there. I was so against that. But his verbal ninja convinced me otherwise. Which was terrible. Because I thought I had all this time. Time while he was driving, while he was banding it up, to get myself ready. Nope. I'll confess that I drove a good bit of the way with giant velcro rollers in my hair. {Eeek. Did I really just let that go?} For shame.

Our wedding day June 2, 2006

I actually drove to his house.

I know. I know I know! You can stop judging me already. In my defense {a wimpy one at that} we had all already googled him and his job to make sure that he was who he actually said he was. Those results were pretty funny in themselves.

More wedding love

So I pulled up to his curious little house and knocked on the door. And then we went to Babin's. It's fancy. Well, not really fancy, so much as out of my price range. I was a poor college student. I could not understand why he picked that place. Have you seen the decor there? There are fish hanging on the walls. Fish! Fish with funny names.

Our first Christmas together in our new house

We made fun of fish the entire dinner. We laughed a lot. Afterwards, we planned on getting some hot cocoa from Starbucks and driving around looking at fancy Christmas lights. We were in The Woodlands, afterall. Poor guy, he had no idea that everything closes down early. No hot cocoa. He couldn't even find any good lights.

Ethiopia June 2009 waiting to hold our son

We went to Wal-Mart. Stop. I know you are so jealous. Wal-Mart. Can you believe it? Then I married this guy? We bought paper and ribbons and tags and tape and everything else and went to his house where I wrapped 95% of all his presents. And I made him listen to Christmas music. And I taught him how to wrap a box and tie a pretty bow. After we were all finished he sighed and realized he'd have a lot of explaining to do. His family was going to know something was up with all those pretty packages.

summer 2009

That's it. That's how it all started. Not a lot of charm, or planning, not even a goodnight kiss. But there was lots of laughter {and we all know how much I love wrapping ... and how fun I am in general} and he was hooked. That's all it took.

And I must admit, I am happier now than ever.

confession

2009-12-15T16:56:00.000-06:00

I have a confession. I cheated. Well, kinda cheated. Mostly ignored.

I cheated and ignored you. That's got to be the worst.

I can explain.

You see, for years I watched-oogled-followed-stalked adoption blogs. I am not kidding. I'm pretty sure I am half of the earlier hits on Micah's, Deacon's, and Silas' pages. No joke. These boys just got me all giddy. Then I started finding other pages. And I was hooked.

So I lived vicariously through these pages. And then I finally made one. Bold, I know, after months of stalking. And then I became even braver {is that a word?} and actually started leaving comments. And after loads of comments, people read my blog! It was thrilling. I would watch the number of hits get bigger and bigger. Thrilling. Really.

It was amazing to be connected to so many others who actually understood what I was feeling, what each step of the process was like. And then it was time. We were actually leaving. We were actually going to Ethiopia to meet our son.

I'd decided that if I was going to be stuck at home all the time {all that cocooning frightened me!} that I was going to have to fix some stuff up here at home. So that's what I did. And a friend turned me on to another kind of blog. Housey blogs. About all sorts of stuff --- that I love --- and so my addiction wandered.

Last night as I was lying in bed with a headache, far from sleep, I thought about this blogging community. I thought about how much I owe you. About the thousands of thank yous I should send because you sustained me through one of the longest periods of longing in my life. You welcomed me into your homes, your families, your own experiences with open arms. You advised me. You appreciated me. You loved me.

Many of you did more. We're regular friends. Not just friends on facebook, but actual friends. We've hung out. We've hugged.

And some of you, a few special ones of you loved on my son before I could. You whispered sweet secrets of his family, of the love we had already, of our coming. You kissed his cheeks. You held his hand. You sent me pictures. You told me stories. You filled the gaps for me.

While I may have wandered, I will never leave you. You are part of us, part of our history, part of our family. We need to remain for those yet to go, for those looking to find, and for when we return again.

Thank you.

eleven months

2009-12-08T18:14:00.000-06:00

This is my baby. He's eleven months old today. He's been home with us for six whole months. Six whole months and three days, actually. Isn't he cute? Look, you can even see his two teeth!

Our son's name is Asher Elyas Galindo. Asher is one of the tribes of Israel. His name means happy, fortunate, blessed. Elyas is the name his birthmother gave him. It means The Lord is God.

Today, I am tearfully thankful that we are fortunate enough to serve the One, True God. The Sovereign Lord who knew where our son was, and was able to connect us to him so we could live happily ever after.

I am tearfully thankful that our son lives up to his name with laughter and giggles and big giant toothy smiles that show the world how happy he is. Everyone we meet comments on it.

And mostly today, I am just plain tearful at how blessed we are.

lucky lucky lucky you

2009-12-07T11:16:00.000-06:00

Turns out since I have to order our Christmas Cards in packs of 20 that I will have approx. 15 left.

If you'd like to receive a fun Christmas Card from the cutest baby ever, leave your info in the comment section.

{If you've received cards from us in the past, you're still going to get one this year, too!}
{Oh, and this picture is not what you'll be receiving!!}

just a little note

2009-12-01T12:13:00.000-06:00

Background:: For those of you who've met my hubband, you would know that he is a manly man. The type of manly man that most other manlyish men still fear at least a little. Yes, he is that manly. In fact, a common phrase of the men in his line is "all that is man". I think you get it.

This morning, I found a note at my sink in the bathroom. It reads:

I put my shoe on this morning and there was a pacifier in it. : )

We will miss these days once he is older.

I like being a parent with you (and not just because you change the nasty diapers).

I love finding notes in my bathroom. And I love love love it when they are mushy.

{And cute! A pacifier in his shoe!}

funnest mom ever

2009-11-24T15:13:00.007-06:00

Yep. That's me. I am officially the funnest mom ever. My baby told me so. You want proof? Ok. Twist my arm. Make me show you bazillions of fantastic pictures of my handsome boy, proving that I am, in fact, indeed, the funnest mom ever. Fine, maybe not bazillions, but lots. I think you can handle lots.

I'm on this new kick where my child should have a ridiculous amount of fun every day. I realize this is bold. And maybe dumb. But there should be at least one point in every single day that makes that day worth living. {Perhaps we adults should consider this as well, but his best moments are often mine, too.}

Our über fun moment today was when I decided that someone could feed himself his own lunch.

Crazy. I know. But so worth it.

Obligatory before picture

Look! Mommy left the spoon and bowl where I could reach!

What a fun idea Mommy.

I have the spoon and the power!!!

Like this?

No. Like this?

This oatmeal is tricky stuff.

Forget the spoon. Where did that go anyway?

Oh well. I have fingers for a reason.

Uh oh. This wasn't supposed to happen. But it's really fun.

Sticky tricky oatmeal.

Ooops.

Oh look. There's still plenty that didn't make it to the floor.

I'll just eat this.

Mom, what a great idea.

Mommy, I clap for you because you are the funnest mommy.

I clap because I can't talk yet to tell you how fun you are.

And I clap because I love it.

I love to clap.

I clap for you funnest mommy!

And if you'd like to see all seventy-something pictures I didn't delete, you can see them all here. If you click through them fast enough it's almost like a video!!!

just for fun

2009-11-16T15:52:00.002-06:00

Everybody knows what babies do.

Sleep.

Eat.

{you know what comes next...}

Learn new tricks.

So, as a treat, I thought I'd highlight our sweet boy doing some of these regular ol' baby things, but from way back when up to now. Sounds fun, right?

I'm still deciding what to do first. Should I just go in order?

Here's one to keep you coming back.

an ode

2009-11-12T11:17:00.005-06:00

This week marked the birthday of a special lady in our lives.

Her name is Diana.

She's a bonus mom.

And a terrific Grandma-Nanny-Mimi.

{Her grandparent name is as of yet, still undecided.}

Today, as our boy's special gift, he's written a little something just for her. Some of it is a little hard to decipher, as it is a well known fact, he is a genius, and sometimes, geniuses are a little hard to follow.

This is for Grandma-Nanny-Mimi

You know who you are

Who is the best grandson ever???

That's what I thought you'd say

But you're right

I am awesome and adorable and talented...

and so so so much more

Just like my Grandma-Nanny-Mimi

Happy Birthday!!!

{the belated part is Mom's fault. Blame her.}

I love you!

{Mooooooo!}

here I am shrieking and laughing because this is so much fun!!!

Halloween Pictures

2009-11-02T14:47:00.004-06:00

Here are the Halloween pictures. You can all stop with the not-so-very-nice-or-patient-emails. It's ok, though. He is the cutest kid to ever live, so I understand your need. He's like a super cute little addiction. Here's your fix:

This was the best monster face we could get out of him.

We'd practiced for days, but all attempts end with laughter.

And here's my sweet little huggin and kissin monster.

Cute!

We went to my mom's festival at the church. She took a ride in the pony cart. If I remember correctly, she once wrote a paper on how to have a successful pony cart crash. How's that for weird fact?

And because I'm incredibly funny and can't wait to hear comments about this last picture, this pic is of Justin's parents on their way to a party. Oh and yes, they dress like that all the time.

our busy little lives

2009-10-24T00:01:00.003-05:00

We've been so busy lately -- life just seems to end up that way.

We've had some family pictures taken.

We went downtown and visited Grandma-Nanny-Mimi at Baker Botts. {Hello to all my fans!!!}

We did some off-roading in the stoller at the garden center.

We started finger-walking every.where.at.all.times.

We've started clapping. At everything. And kissing mirrors.

We've met lots of fans and devotees.

We have our first runny nose {Ladies at Baker Botts, we think one of you is to blame!}

And our very first Halloween is coming up, so stay tuned for cute photos!!!

simple prayer request

2009-10-16T15:55:00.002-05:00

A while back, Justin and I volunteered in the children's department at our church. We worked with second graders specifically and at the end of the lesson, asked for prayer requests. Of course when working with children, these requests often vary from my dog is sick to the inevitable "let me get lots of good candy at Halloween and not the bad kind" and sometimes, you receive the really heartfelt request of a child who asks for a happier mom or a new job for daddy, or even a baby brother or sister.

We worked in the program long enough to develop relationships with some of the regular kids. The ones who cause trouble are usually the first you connect with, as was the case with Fischer. He was really busy, had a lot to say, and could top any story you had. But he was precious and I prayed that someday all that energy would be used for the Lord. Along with knowing the kids, you also begin to let them know you. Children are full of questions. Full full full. We were always asked if we had children, and many of them had come to understand that we hoped to adopt from Ethiopia.

The program had started having the kids right down their requests instead of verbalizing them, and the leaders then took them home to pray about them. I really preferred hearing them in class because sometimes, you just need a good laugh. But I collected the cards each week and shoved them into my Bible for later perusal.

Last week I was doing some fall closet cleaning and stumbled across the little pocket Bible Justin sent me when I first moved to Dallas. Inside were tucked three little prayer cards. The first asked for no rain for soccer games, another pet emergency, and lastly, the sweetest request I'd ever received:

"I hope your son stay in your heart forever."

4-20-08

Long before you were here, and before we even knew who you were, you've been dreamed of, longed for, prayed over, and loved.

new hobby

2009-10-12T22:49:00.003-05:00

Ladies, Gentlemen, boys and girls --

I give you my boy's all time favorite hobby:

Sleeating

(please notice the tiny cheerio stuck just to the right of his chins. he's saving that for later.)

nine months

2009-10-09T18:48:00.004-05:00

My little boy is nine months old! Sheesh. Can hardly believe it. I'll hurry up and get to the pictures, because honestly, that's all anyone cares about. Right? (You don't have to answer that.)

Look, Mom! I'm here to help with laundry!

What?! This isn't really helping?

Oh well. I'm having fun anyway.

Mom. Seriously? Pictures again?

I thought we were going to eat.

Oh! You are taking pictures of my dinner face?

Ok! Here's a good one!

Cheeeese!

baby jail

2009-09-26T14:45:00.005-05:00

1. I get it. You read it. So ~~you can quit hounding me~~ I'll keep updating the blog.

2.~~Everyone of you~~ Several of you begged asked to see proof of the baby jail incidents. Here is how it plays out.

Oh look. Mommy is here. She can rescue me from baby jail.

Mommy! I see you! Why are you not picking me up yet?!

Mommy! I'm still in jail!

You're leaving me in here!

Why don't you love me anymore???!!!

I will now alert the whole world of how terribly mistreated (and sad) I am.

Here's my big breath...

Oh, I am so so sad.

And now I am SCREAMING because you are just standing there

taking pictures of my unfortunate surprise incarceration.

{How do I keep ending up in here?}

Get me out NOW.

*Disclaimers:

1. I didn't dress him to match the wall or his bedding.

2. As soon as I pick him up he turns his head and looks at baby jail to make sure he's out.

3. No more crying. Until he wakes up back in baby jail.

Next post: Favorite toys. Get excited.

slacking

2009-09-21T13:16:00.002-05:00

Man, it's definitely been more than ten days and this is only post number nine. I don't feel really bad though because I'm not really sure that more than four people even read this. My mother in law and best buddies and maybe one more person.

My little guy is busy taking a nap. Thank goodness! Last week he went through a major rebellion and decided he no longer liked naps. Or sleeping in general. Or his crib. I'm pretty sure it's all my fault.

Last Thursday night, right before bed, he started crawling. (Sigh.) And earlier in the week, I had seen him pull himself up to standing all by himself on his toy box. It started happening more and more frequently. So I did the unthinkable and lowered his crib. Now he thinks it's baby jail. Every single time I lay him in it he immediately pulls himself up to standing, grasping onto the bars, and peers at me from in between them with these giant sad eyes (and sometimes big sad tears) and wails. Not little whimpers or cries, but "Mommy-How-Could-You-Do-This-To-Me?!!?!?" kind of cries. Heart. Breaking.

I am so glad that today is better. It did take rocking him to sleep...three times...but he's asleep now and that's great. Saturday, for example, he slept less than two hours all day long. He was one sad and miserable little dude. Until all the ladies showed up. Then he was one happy camper. He's such a flirt.

The end. I'll add some pictures in the next post.

When he's awake and well rested. : )

Eight Months

2009-09-09T00:25:00.002-05:00

I simply just cannot believe our little boy is eight months old today! That's just ridiculous. And sad. And it's just going to keep happening. Well, he won't keep turning eight months old, he'll get even older! Argh. The misery.

Anyway, enough sad things about me. My little boy is eight months old!

So, here's the picture you're waiting for...

And here are my current eight favorite things about him:

1. When something is super super funny, he shrieks and takes a big big breath before he can continue laughing.

2. That dumb ol' first tooth went away. Yay for toothless grins.

3. How he very carefully picks up one cheerio at a time and then shoves his whole fist into his mouth.

4. When he's sleepy and we lay him in his crib, he rubs his eyes, grabs the top of his blanket, pulls it up, and rolls over.

5. He plays peek-a-boo over the side of his crib each time I go in his room to get him.

6. His hair. Need I say more?

7. His vigorous attempts at crawling --- which end up looking like...well, I can't put that on our blog.

8. He actually poses for pictures. (This apparently can be inherited through that Neely DNA. Or osmosis. Whatever. Good training.)

I see myself!

2009-08-31T13:45:00.000-05:00

Just to tide you over

2009-08-29T14:49:00.000-05:00

sadness and devastation

2009-08-26T22:02:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it.

I simply can't believe it.

I am completely at a loss.

And sad.

Perhaps spiraling down into a deep depression.

My baby boy is growing so fast.

Earlier,

I think I spotted the beginnings of a

teeny

little

white

spot.

First tooth -- oh how I hate you.

laughing at Dada

2009-08-24T20:04:00.004-05:00

Please excuse the mess in our living room. And the toy boxes on the couch.

And the tv in the background.

And anything else that I might find embarrassing.

Thank you.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

water baby

2009-08-23T23:52:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday we headed out to Jess and Dan's house to introduce our wee one to their pool. We were so excited because we knew how much he loves baths and how much he really loves to splash...

**********************************

So first thing, Dada and baby enter pool. Things seem ok at first, but quickly go downhill. As evidenced in this first picture.

Baby heads back to Mommy, who is sitting poolside to take pictures. We dip his little feet in. That's fun. We dip a little more in. That's fun, too. Ok. We're making progress.

Next we try the little step that puts him in as much water as his kitchen sink baths. We are happy with this. We can splash!

Ooops. Splashed myself.

After a bit we move out into the water. We float.

We even dunk!

Then we roar (with laughter) like a sea lion because this pool business is way fun!

(This part was hilarious!!!)

We also were totally awesome with a kickboard. And did not want to give that up. But did finally for a chance to snuggle with Mommy and get her all wet.

Then, a really really long nap. Yay for long naps.

Hope you're all enjoying the posts -- and all these great and glorious pictures.

You're worth it. : )

three things

2009-08-22T22:58:00.005-05:00

It would appear that I am already behind! I did write up a post last night but I guess the internet ate it. Here goes another... and I'll make up for the missing one.

THREE THINGS:

that make baby giggle:

1. eating his toes

2. tickling his belly

3. making funny noises

that always make baby happy:

1. bath time

2. johnny jump up

3. mommy's cell phone

that might make baby unhappy:

1. taking too long between bites at meal time

2. getting hot in the carseat

3. having to take a nap when we're having too much fun

that we do with mommy:

1. sing

2. bath time

3. stroller rides

that we do with dada:

1. bedtime books

2. fly through the house

3. play keepaway the kisses from mommy (this is not as fun as it sounds. well, at least for mommy anyway. but baby and dada really think it's funny.)

that we do everyday:

1. lotion up and put on jammies

2. make faces during meal times

3. take pictures

And of course, because I am required, I leave you with a picture. : ) You're welcome.

my two favorite guys

doing one of their favorite things

Promises, Promises...

2009-08-20T23:29:00.003-05:00

Shocker! Another post! Ok, so here's the deal. I'm going to do TEN DAYS IN A ROW of posting. Hopefully, that will be enough to start making people happy. Kristy Johnson, you have to stop blogging. My MIL found your site and is always asking me why mine isn't as good as yours...you know, music, videos, blah blah blah. KJ, stop having a perfect blog with perfect pictures of my little friend. Sheesh. You're making it really difficult for the rest of us. And by the rest of us, I mean me. Sorry. I do still like you. And your blog. I just want people to like mine again. For what it is. That's all.

So, moving on. I am promising TEN DAYS of blogging. I'll answer any questions you have for our boy or our adoption or anything like that. I think day ten will feature a fun interview with the little man himself. Yes, I know. He is realizing his popularity and understands that his public needs to get a little somethin-somethin every once in a while. And guess what else? I'm promising pictures, too. Here's proof:

Picture Update!

2009-08-20T16:09:00.001-05:00

Over on FB, I've posted the six month pictures. I know they are late...but it's actually the photographer's fault. Seriously. Never use JCP, regardless of how many good things you hear from others. Ok, maybe that's a bit drastic. Never use the JCP in The Woodlands Mall. Ok, better.

Anyway, I know you only want to see the pictures, so here's the link. Enjoy.

Coming soon -- pictures of our first trip to the pool!! Prepare yourselves for super cuteness coming your way. Seriously, start preparing now. : )

Fun with a Cop at Lunch

2009-08-10T11:15:00.001-05:00

My future's so bright

2009-07-28T10:05:00.001-05:00

I gotta wear shades!

2009-07-24T17:51:00.000-05:00

I started washing dishes to the sound of baby babble. When I finished
this is what I found.

Admit it --- I'm your favorite

2009-07-01T21:36:00.001-05:00

slight delay and apology ... again

2009-06-24T02:04:00.000-05:00

Well folks, I really want to do a post (or a million) about our time in Ethiopia and meeting our sweet son and Hannah's Hope and being home and being a family of three and about twenty other things...but I don't like to blog without pictures and blogger isn't letting me upload any! It's a complete tragedy! I hope you accept this one tiny picture as an apology. This is our first picture as a family, when we met our son for the first time. He isn't really so sure about it...but we were having a blast!

I'm also having a hard time trying to decide on the next post. So let's have a vote!

1. Should I go ahead and start about being home and the here and now?

2. Should I recap our time in Ethiopia?

3. Should I tell you all our travel tips and secrets -- and warnings?

4. Something else you want to know that I haven't thought of...?

Leave a comment with your suggestion and I'll get to posting real soon! Oh, and I know you want more pictures. I know!

just a little hello

2009-06-18T15:08:00.001-05:00

Monday smile

2009-06-08T16:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Five Month Birthday!

tagsie winner and our baby, too!

2009-06-06T16:17:00.003-05:00

We're back! We're busy visiting with relatives and friends but doing great! Here's a picture of our handsome little boy for you to drool and coo over until I sit down to post more...

And our Tagsie Giveaway Winner is Cindy of The Sweetest Thing. Yay! Send me your address and I'll send you a tagsie. : ) Ok, fun times. : ) More later. Right now I'm too busy loving on this baby.

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-05T22:34:00.001-05:00

Well, we finally made it! Baby boy is sleeping in the bassinet next to
nubby who crashed immediately after we came home. For the record, my
hubband is amazing and deserves a big prize for his behavior today.
More on that later. We are thrilled to finally be home as a family
and promise to post more details and pics soon.

Oh, and to the families whose kids I loved at HH, boy have we got some
goodies for you! I promise to not make you wait too long!

Sent from my iPhone

Surviving Great

2009-06-02T00:09:00.001-05:00

Well, we made it through the night! Baby Galindo slept 10 hours (with
two night feedings) so we are absolutely positive this is OUR kid. :
) He did decide it was time to wake up for good around 4:30 this
morning, so that's a little weird, but we're managing.

Today we head into town and buy fun things and hang out more at
Hannah's Hope with the other cuties. Man, there are so many! Even
Justin was ready to bring home extra babies.

Our embassy appointment yesterday went great and everything is done
and legal and final. We're still working on a name. Glad that wasn't
part of the documentation yesterday. Everyone thinks our babe is so
cute -- and that's because he is. We are already totally smitten and
love his big gummy smiles and funny little giggles. We can't wait to
show him off to everyone!

love to all--
j & n

We made it!

2009-05-31T22:53:00.001-05:00

Hi All! Just wanted to let you know that we made it here, with all our
luggage and sanity in tact. We had quite an adventure getting here --
more on that later. We've already met our little guy. He is precious!
We're about to have breakfast and fill out the remaining paperwork
then he'll be with us the rest of the week. Yay!

Just wanted to pass along that we are fine. Love to all!

j&n

Testing!

2009-05-28T04:46:00.002-05:00

We leave tomorrow so I am just now getting around to testing out the
email format. I hope this works -- and I hope to blog to you from
outer space! Just kidding, we're only going to Ethiopia silly. : )

Sweet baby, here we come. Mommy and Daddy are on their way!