TWO + ONE = CHINA

Winter 2011 has been grim, but we have a secret weapon...

2011-03-25T19:07:00.000-05:00

Remember this...?

Ugh.

Ahhhh!

Hello, Florida, old friend.

Turn that surly upside down -

I swear, we were all instantly transformed into more joyful people

the moment our toes hit the sand and surf.

Little FISH, showing off mad swimming skills.

Brought to you by Foss Swim School and

the above/beyond efforts of Teachers Allyson and Beth back in MN!!

Pool vs. Beach?

BOTH.

Happiest 4yr old on the planet.

Beach style - as always, Helen working her look.

Shout out to our good friend Cari Lee for showing me

the wisdom of the long-sleeved rash guard.

We didn't actually have the entire beach to ourselves

but ya really wouldn't know it from any of our pix.

Simply a little slice of heaven.

Sunset on our last night...back to the cold and snow.

However, we've been fortified for the final push.

See ya next year, Anna Maria Island!

Chinese New Year 2011 - Year of the Rabbit

2011-02-18T10:44:00.000-06:00

Showing a dash o' 'tude with her love-child style.

(Families with children from Asia CNY event)

There's a smile!

Happy New Year

dear friends and family!

The Get-Up

2011-01-26T17:01:00.000-06:00

Party hat

Leopard vest

Stickers

Bug rainboots

Pajamas

Helen's ready for bed!

Look at those faces!

2011-01-04T10:04:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year's Day/Night 2011!!

Miss Lily (5), Miss Helen (4) and Miss Muriel (5)
Yangxi Sisters

Summer's end

2010-09-17T09:47:00.004-05:00

Clutier (IA) Days - can't wait for the parade to start.

Littles sifting for coins ("Moneys!!") in tons of sawdust.

Ahhh! Nothing like a cone to cool a girl off
after a tough day of small town Iowa festivities.

OKOBOJI 2010!!!

Helen and cousin Chelsea about to do some boating on East Lake.

Photographic evidence of Helen...

enjoying the boat! Super YAY!

(There'd been some, ummm, difficulties in the past.)

First day of Ballet Class - September 2010

(A little anxious at first, but came around quickly.)
Is there anything cuter than a tiny tot in ballet garb?

Rest of May, June and some of July - SURPRISE!

2010-07-18T10:53:00.009-05:00

May wedding in Ames - dance TONIGHT!

Fred & Tom's new backyard - loverly.

First day of summer preschool with bestest friend, Giancarlo

(he, with the Donny Osmond smile).

Helen and Paige, Round One, taffy.

Helen and Paige, Round Two, DQ Dilly Bar.

Families with Children from Asia

2010 Dragon Boat team

Photo Finish - we won (!) and placed 8th overall.

FCA! FCA! FCA!

MN Zoo last weekend with our travel group.

(We missed you AGAIN, Texas!)

Averie and Helen, included because H is smiling here...

...but not here with Mary Ellen and Averie, our travel group buddies.
Not sure what that face is about but my guess = hot and tired.

Spring has sprung

2010-05-07T14:15:00.004-05:00

Knows a thing or two re: personal style.

For your entertainment...and BOOM, right into the svc door!

Florida, you may not be as beautiful as California, but we love you anyhoo

2010-04-18T11:15:00.002-05:00

Having arrived in Tampa, the Navigators check the map while the Captain secures the vehicle.

First morning in Tampa - there's chewing going on here.

Looking about 8 years old, no?

Getting ready for the pool - practicing (WITH goggles, of course) her stroke.

Busch Gardens photo op.

Hard to say if this girl could love her dad more.

First time, EVER, willing to ride alone...

...and digging it!

Helen was an inch too short for the Rhino Rally so

we satisfied our sense of adventure with this photo op.

First evening on Anna Maria Island - Helen and me scoping out the beautiful beach.

Perfecting jumping on one foot - she REALLY gets that other leg up there.

Sunset and about to scout for sand dollars.

The whole gang!

(S/S/S - back by popular demand!)

Contemplating world peace or what to have for a snack ?

Couple of days before Easter, Helen and her dad built this sweet bunny on the beach.

If anyone is interested in helping us finance the purchase of the house in the background...

call me, ok?

Always working her look!

All heading down to the beach for our last sunset together.

Had a great time, Anna Maria! Thanks for the memories, see ya soon.

This is what Helen does...or a day in the life of a 3 yr old

2010-03-23T16:58:00.002-05:00

...makes the best of a cold snowy day...

...models a super cute fleece hat making craft at FCC Chinese New Year...

...visits the Midtown Global Market for Wee Wednesday events...

...hangs with BFF Lily...

...and mugs for mom's cellphone camera!

7:30 am Wakes up, I go in her room to open the shades, say "good morning" - that kind of thing.

Says, "I wanted Daddy to come get me."

8:00 am Asks "Where are we going today?" I tell her, replies "That sounds like a good plan."

10:00 am Playground or open gym, screams "Don't look at me KID!!!!!" at every kid who looks in her direction.

12:00 am I bonk my elbow on the car door, gives me a tight hug to "heal" me.

12:30 pm Picks her nose and wipes the booger on my shirt.

12:45 pm Steals my napkin and throws it on the floor. Eats all of my Mandarin orange slices.

1:30 pm Snuggles in the comfy chair with me for books before naptime, LOTS of kisses. I pretend I'm chomping on her neck, says "Why am I SO delicious?!"

3:30 pm Everytime I say "she", yells "HE!!!".

Everytime I say "her", yells "HIM!!!

Everytime I say "Helen", yells "I'm not Helen, I'm Quincy (or Pablo, or Annie, or...)!!!"

4:30 pm Says "You are my heart, my life, Mommy"

5:00 - 7:15 pm Yells "HE!!!", "HIM!!!", and "I'm not Helen!!!" some more. Refuses to eat dinner.

7:30 pm Jumps around on her bed and giggles before getting changed into jammies, having "Naked Time!!!"

8:00 pm Family group hug with various stuffed animals, says "Thanks for a nice day, Mommy."

It's a pretty wonderful, hilariously aggrivating, awesome way to spend the day. I feel so blessed every minute of the time we spend together - even when I'm answering "WHY?" for the 100th time or wiping boogers off my shirt. Thank you, Helen, for a nice day.

Baby, it's cold outside.

2010-02-19T20:24:00.001-06:00

Best Snowman in town, yeah?!

Perfect consistency for a big WALL O' SNOW.

...and CRASH!

Perhaps some flying buttresses next time?

Too cool for school.

Everybody, ready? CHEESE!

Ni Hao, Kai-lan with Helen at the Mall of America last weekend -

Happy Chinese New Year!

Last night after dinner

2010-01-22T16:06:00.003-06:00

Jazz Hands - YEAH!

Recorded at Julie Andrews Fan Club HQ...our kitchen.

Thanksgiving, Birthdays and Christmas - oh my!

2010-01-03T17:32:00.006-06:00

Thanksgiving 2009

Cousins Hunter and Chelsea (my sister's kids) with Helen.

I swear, if you don't hurry up and cut this cake soon I'm gonna...

...chomp!

A moment - sharing birthdays and birthday cake.

(Whoa - haircut girl!)
Opening a birthday gift that came in the mail.
Can you believe she's THREE?!

Helen digging her bracelet and cute sweater.

She likes her sled so much she'll nap on it, thanks Santa!

Hey, yeah hello, a little help here?

Christmas 2009

Pokorny kids with Grandpa at the farm.

Where did the time go? Wasn't it just Halloween?

I got a gentle nudge in my Inbox from a friend so I thought I better post some Nov-Dec pix by Monday morning or there might be some trouble!

So glad we were able to make it to IA to spend the holidays with our families. The weather was iffy and had to be worked around but we made it, no problems.

Helen is talking SO much. She's got a lot to say (like her mom, right?) and most of it, bless her heart, is hilarious, smart and sweet. Current favorites:

"That's CRAZY!"

"Thanks to, mommy and daddy, for a nice day."

"You're goofiest and I'm goofier."

Oh, and did I mention she's been insisting we call her Julie Andrews (star of stage and screen) going on two months now. It was funny and cute the first week. See, when we're running late and I say,

"Helen, get your coat and boots on, quick, quick! We need to go!"

My very passionate three year-old yells,

"I'm Julie Andrews!!!", and a little spot behind my eye starts to pinchpinchpinch.

"Okaaaaay. Whatever! JULIE - get your coat and boots on, now!"

She never lets it slide. She is Julie Andrews and there's absolutely no talking her out of it. The parenting books don't discuss this. Imaginary friends, check.

Not a word on acute FrauleinMaria/MaryPoppins-itis? I want to sit her down, explain that it took her dad and me YEARS to agree on her beautiful name, and that to insist 100 times a day I call her something else not only drives me crazy but it also breaks my heart a little bit each time. I want to tell her that if she really were Julie Andrews, instead of a 3-yr old kid, she'd understand what I was saying and...

Best to all in 2010! I've got a good feeling about it. I don't know anything specific or what have you, I'm just saying.

October 2009 (+ Halloween)

2009-11-02T09:39:00.010-06:00

Crocs, definitely not made for running.

Pumpkin patch/farm visit with our travel group (Texas, we love and miss you!).
Last fall, H wasn't too keen on feeding the goats but this year...

...VERY brave!

Helen, Averie and MaryEllen messing around in the corn bin.

Our girl is a CAT PERSON.

Here's our usual shot of the girls together.

We captured the moment for sure!

Helen wasn't too interested in having her pic taken.

Happy Halloween! Helen, as friendly lion.

(I need to work on my face painting skills.)

Trick or Treat!

The night before, Stew and I could hear Helen through the monitor practicing what to say. "Trick OR Treat...TRICK or treat...trick or TREAT...yay! Trick or treat!"

Halloween After-party at Fred and Tom's - they have A LOT of wigs.

In case you've wondered what H will look like in 70 years.

Helping daddy with the fall yard work.

Fruits of her labor.

CRUNCH!

"I'm cold" face. Time to go inside.

For your entertainment

2009-10-08T16:55:00.004-05:00

Sometimes ya hear things you weren't sure ya wanted to...

(recorded on my cell phone - lost the last part, unfortunately)

I know! And with a big finish, too.

*Working on some photos from Aug and Sept. Should have them up soon, ya'll!

July looked like THIS...

2009-08-25T16:36:00.008-05:00

Dragonboat Festival at Lake Phalen, St. Paul, MN

FCC (Families with Children from China) Dragonboat Team.

Stew and I are middle right.

Oar Salute to our fans on shore as we head out to the start point.

Stew is third rower from rear closest to camera.

I'm fourth rower from the front on the other side.

Good start - everyone is pretty much together.

Not bad for one morning of practice!

6th out of 26 - woo hoo!

The Pokorny Family visits our beautiful city.

We missed you, Grandpa and Zach!

Aunt Mary took this cute shot of Helen at Sommerfest outside Orchestra Hall on the plaza.

We'd all just gotten off the trolley that runs between Lakes Harriet and Calhoun. It was a beautiful sunny day, oh and past naptime, perhaps. Hence, the scowl.

Children's Home Society Annual China Reunion

Getting ready to Pin the Tail on the (Year of the) Ox.

Perhaps you remember Molly (in town for the reunion)?

She was our lifeline in China.

Super deluxe double-slide action, zoom!

Hanging around the playground.

(sorry...)

1-2-3 Baby, you and me

2009-07-22T15:19:00.006-05:00

I'm working on some photos from the Dragonboat Races a couple of Saturdays ago but until then... Here's some short, but sweet, vids to keep you movin'/ groovin'.

5:00 Dance Party 2009

Shake it, shake it, baby! EWW, EWW!

This is what June looks like

2009-06-29T19:22:00.006-05:00

SO happy it's summer!

Fred and John in charge of bedtime.

Not QUITE cowboy boots, but close enough.

Once again...Helen working her look.

Stewart's birthday breakfast at Victor's.

Getting comfy in the Burly for the first time.

Already with the party tricks...

She's a midwesterner now, eh?

Huge Day! Finally able to climb UP the slide.

Thumbkin, Pointer and...Manny?

2009-06-08T14:58:00.003-05:00

Singing after lunch today.

(Peace t-shirt - gift from dear friend, Allyson.)

A little April, a little May and a little last night

2009-05-28T09:29:00.008-05:00

Our travel group hanging at the Johnson's - MaryEllen, Averie and Helen.

As always, we missed you Texas!

The latest couch photo - Aliyah, MaryEllen, Averie, Helen.

Can you believe how big they're getting?!

For comparison, this was taken last October.

Check here for older group pix.

Girl's got mad climbing skills.

Like her mom, H prefers a cookie to be as big as her head.

MN Zoo, Africa after-hours event.

To say the least, these two kinda like each other.

Wee, wee, wee...all the way HOOOME!

(captured last night)

Iowa, where the tall corn grows

2009-05-01T20:14:00.007-05:00

A show of hands, who loves Okoboji?!

We've been Skype-ing with Aunt Missy lately.
Super fun!

Playing outside at Aunt Missy's.
Strawberry Shortcake necklace, complements of the Easter Bunny.

Honestly, Helen had no chance when it came to any Reeses related candy.
A weakness, an obsession of mine. Poor kid!

Practicing "gentle touch" with the cute farm kitties.

A beautiful day...

...to get together...

...on the Pokorny Family farm.

FCC Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-03T16:22:00.010-05:00

Freaked out by the proximity of The Easter Bunny, Helen pauses during the "decorate your bag" portion of the egg hunt.

Egg hiding in the bucket swing - good eye.

New rain boots.

Discussing strategy?

Collecting the loot.

Needing a hair cut.

Finally, the cute outfit from Aunt Missy! (see post re: ice and blood)

Looking a little sad 'cuz she had to stand still. Such a bummer when you're 2!

Right before nap time - "DELICIOUS!"

Sweet dreams

2009-03-23T14:33:00.004-05:00

First ever - pig tails.

She's got that grip down really well - it's so sad!

All those wearing their coats backwards may sit right here next to me.

There is a downside to wearing your hood in front when you're swinging.

Helen's super interested in naming her body parts in a very detailed way. So it's not just tummy, foot and ears. It's palm, wrist, ankle, eyebrow, nails, etc. Every day when I put her down for her nap, I rub her tummy as she lays in her crib and we discuss what she's going to dream about. Today, it went something like this:

Me: What good things are you going to dream about?

H: Babies, swing, teeter-totter (her usual list)

Me: What else?

H: Mama, Dada, aHa-Ha (Helen)

Me: That sounds like a really good dream. What else?

H: (raises up her arm and points) ARM PIT!

Me: Arm pit?! Oh dear! Anything else?!

H: (raises up the other arm and points) ARM PIT!

Me: Sounds like you've got your pits covered. Anything else you wanna add to the list?

H: (raises up one of her knees and grabs it from behind) KNEE PIT!

Super Ouch

2009-03-16T14:51:00.006-05:00

This week, I was going to post a photo of Helen in an outfit from Aunt Missy. However, it's in the wash now with blood all over it. Yeah. (60+ degrees today, can you believe it? Spring has perhaps sprung and we're so relieved. It was a bleak, snowy, bitterly cold winter, even for MN. Good riddance Snow Miser. Hello Heat Miser, my dear friend. ) Ok, back to the blood. I pulled the car into the garage, got H out of her seat and put her down outside with instructions to head for the door. I turned back to the car to get my diaper bag and as I walked from the garage toward the house, I saw that Helen had wandered into the yard. No big deal, right? Huge sheet of ice where the sun doesn't reach this time of year...she was UP and then she was DOWN. Full-on belly flop, feet up behind her, face planted, bloody nose, crying. No loose teeth but a puffy upper lip and maybe a bruise across her nose - we'll see. The positive spin on this is, if there can be one, she was being adventuresome. For a kid who can be supremely wary, this is progress. Her interest in checking out the spot where we hang the swing was so powerful - more powerful than anything else. So even though it ended with her getting hurt, she's ok and it's good to see her acting like a kid. So that's why there's no picture today of Helen in her cute outfit (will try again another day), but here's a picture of the scene of the accident. Super ouch.

64 degrees, Monday, March 15, 2009

Wait, just a minute - found some cute pix from a couple of weeks ago. Thanks for the dress, Aunt Mary! She loves these rain boots from Paige so much, she wears them around the house.

Is there a future in runway?

Seacrest, out!

Hey Ya Highchair

2009-03-03T19:16:00.011-06:00

Did you think I dropped off the radar? Probably, right? I feel like I kind of have. Winter drags on, sleep issues abound for all of us, and it seems like so much around the house and on my to-do list never gets crossed off. Not exactly a revelation, I know, but where does the day, the week, the month go?! Uh, anyway.

I was poking around the iPod looking for some new dance party music the other day and rediscovered Hey Ya, by Outkast (2003). Here's a little taste of the fun we've been having with it. If you haven't heard it in awhile, it doesn't exactly hold up upon first listening. HOWEVER - after a time or two, I guarantee, you'll come around.

Gimme some sugar, I am your neighbor - HA!

shake it like a Polaroid picture

More Chinese New Year - 2009

2009-02-19T14:20:00.004-06:00

Not my best effort, background wise, but it shows off the beautiful color of Helen's traditional outfit this year. She looks so grown-up.

Families with Children from China, New Year Celebration.

Meet Helen's favorite, named (my fault) Kitty.

The two of them are joined at the hip these days.

That is one fat cat.

February in MN? Turtlenecks and tights are a must! Next year, I may have to skip the outfit we brought home from China and spring for something quilted online.

Happy Chinese New Year - 2009 - Year of the Ox

2009-01-30T15:06:00.006-06:00

Helen has been practicing "Ni hao" (Mandarin Chinese for "hello") so she could bust it out for this little video during Chinese New Year. She's getting it down pretty well, don't you think?

Helen was playing with her Little People House this week. The happy couple above represents her choice of a Dada and a Mama to live in the house. I'm the one on the right, Saxophone Steve, thank you very much.

Working the winter duds for sledding.

The very best FIVE BUCKS I've spent in recent memory (well, there was that banana chocolate chip bundt cake...hmm...) was on this line up right here. Despite the fact that the Jaguar is missing, these vehicles are capable of keeping a two year old busy for at least, and I'm not exaggerating here, 20 minutes. I should probably write Matchbox Cars a thank-you note.

In honor of this historic day

2009-01-20T15:33:00.001-06:00

Big slide action

2009-01-15T19:35:00.004-06:00

Way to stick the landing, Kerri Strug!

That doesn't go up your nose.

Hi Daddy!

You've got to work your look

2009-01-07T13:48:00.004-06:00

You can go with either the ribbon OR the hat.

Not both.

Freezing temps mean bundling up from head to ankle.

Happy Holidays Every One

2008-12-23T13:27:00.007-06:00

Current favorite: Green Eggs and Ham.

"I would not like them here or there! I would not like them anywhere!"

"Try them, try them and you may. Try them and you may, I say."

Fresh from the tub sporting her fancy new robe.

Warming up to Santa by approaching Blitzen first.

Hurray, success = first time on Santa's lap and no crying!
(I'm pretty sure Helen is telling Santa she'd appreciate it if he'd put a bit more effort into his outfit next year.)

We are so thankful for the roof over our heads, the clothes on our backs, the food on our table, Stew's steady job, our sense(s) of humor, our good health, our dear friends and family - that means you, each other, and most of all - our precious Helen.
How lucky we are!

Our best to you and yours!

Pause from our regularly scheduled program...

2008-12-20T16:01:00.004-06:00

Lori Hermstad, a dear friend from my home town, has a precious daughter who is very ill. I've mentioned her before here on my blog. She recently wrote this letter on behalf of Alex and has asked her friends and loved ones to share it with everyone they know.
Here is her letter:

Hi, my name is Alexandria Hermstad but everyone calls me Alex. I have an identical twin sister named Jaci and we are 15 years old. I was always healthy but for almost 4 years now, I have been fighting an illness that nobody seems to know what it is or why it is happening to me. I live in Storm Lake, Iowa and I am paralyzed. I have to use a ventilator to breathe through a hole in my throat which sometimes gets plugged and I can’t breathe. I cannot swallow food anymore so my diet consists of liquids through a tube in my stomach. My mind still works fine and I understand everything that is going on around me. I can’t speak either, so my mom is helping me to put my feelings on paper.

Jaci and I used to love playing sports, riding horses, and snowmobiling. When I turned 11, I began having trouble moving my left arm. By the end of the year, I could no longer walk. We were told to leave our house because the cause might be environmental, so we left…we left everything! Our dog, Gracie, couldn’t even come with us. After 9 months and being in 3 different hospitals, I finally went home. Since my illness began, we have met so many caring people. We are very grateful for all those who have reached out and shared whatever they could give. I am very thankful for those who have tried to help me. But at the end of each day…I am still here.

Many times I want to scream, but I have no voice. Many times I want to hide away in my room, but I cannot move. I want to hug my family and tell them I love them, but I can’t.
I can still move a little corner of my mouth to answer “yes” questions. I can still cry and tears can still roll down my face, but I cannot wipe them away. It takes a long time to be able to communicate with my parents. Many times it’s very frustrating to get my thoughts across and then for someone to understand me. What is more frustrating is why do the doctors and researchers we have written to and who have the capability to help me, choose not to help me – like I don’t exist?

I want to do so much but because I am trapped inside my body, I can’t.

I have been ignored by almost everyone who has the power and knowledge to help me. I used to watch medical mystery shows and was always overwhelmed in seeing how a doctor on the show would come forward and do a little extra to save/help their patient. I don’t know why someone won’t do that for me…? What I do know is that my illness is “atypical” and not the obvious, which seems to be why doctors are so perplexed, but I can't get their attention to care enough to help me. I just need someone to care. Even Make-A-Wish denied my wish. St. Jude’s never even tried to help me. President-Elect Obama met me in my home, took his picture with me and promised to help me, yet I still wait. My own governor looks the other way. Nearly every national foundation and organization my family writes to responds back saying I don’t meet “criteria”. Every major news organization we write to ignores me. They must not believe 5 minutes is worthy of helping to save my life. Has our society come to the point that celebrities become a higher priority than rescuing a child with an extremely rare condition?Celebrities, foundations, politicians, physicians, hospitals, and the list goes on, does not find it in their hearts to get back to me. Why? What would you do for your loved one? All I want is someone with the power and knowledge, to help me. I have been rejected because I don’t meet criteria…how sick do I have to get to meet “criteria”?

Recently, a local charity has offered me and my family support by trying to help bring about awareness to my story in hopes it will save my life before it is too late. I am fighting so hard to survive, and even though my voice is silent, I AM SCREAMING ON THE INSIDE TO BE HEARD! PLEASE help me! So many people have told me they love me and they can show this by contacting everyone they know about me so my voice can be heard. There is strength in numbers. Something as simple as taking a few minutes to send a message to all the people in your mailbox could make a big difference.

I am also writing big newspapers. I am asking that all newspapers come together for one day to do something that is completely unprecedented; publish the same letter across the country so that all may hear my plea, on the same day, January 2nd; a fresh start to the new year.
It may only take a few minutes, but sharing my letter with someone, a simple random act of kindness, may very well save my life. Please prayerfully hope that I can celebrate another birthday… another Christmas…the day I prayed I would get to graduate from high school.
But even more- a miracle to share in God's glory.

I am respectfully and passionately asking people who have the power to move- to move for me. I am asking those who have the ability to scream, scream for me. I am asking those who have the capacity to talk, to be my voice.

Everybody tells me to, “keep fighting Alex”, so I do. I fight relentlessly…each hour of every day.
Now, I am asking people to fight WITH me and FOR me.

I don’t know why doctors won’t help me…will you?

Last summer, my family began “Alex’s Army”. Will you join Alex’s Army and help me by contacting my email at: alexsarmy@hotmail.com with suggestions and your ideas on how you can help me? Hopefully, and prayerfully, I can find someone who will be willing to help me.
Those who pray, please pray for me as my faith in God has helped sustain me in this battle.

Thank you and God Bless,
Alex Hermstad
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelsforalex
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lq6qotHIiCM

TWO!!

2008-12-06T23:32:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday, ladies!

Mom and daughter, born the same day a couple (!!) of decades apart.

Hanging out with Seabiscuit, modeling a cozy birthday outfit.

Personal hygiene is very important, Dora.

Comb harmonica?

Check out the super cute sock monkey slippers, man.

Helen and I had a great birthday! I'm so happy we get to share the day and I hope as she gets older, she'll dig this connection between us as much as I do.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-02T15:38:00.008-06:00

My dear friend, Matt, holding my girl.

My dear friend, Dan, me, and Matt mugging with H - borrowing Matt's glasses, striking her thinking pose.

Brianna, snack time supervisor!

Zach, the baby whisperer!

Check out the smiles on those two, Brianna and Zach. Helen and I can only hope that after years of exposure, the "Pokorny Photo Op Smile" rubs off on us.

Cleaning up after a long day of playing at Grandpa's.

Once again, we packed it in over Thanksgiving. Wednesday and Thursday were spent with good friends and the rest of the weekend was spent in Iowa with family. The car trip went better then it has, thankfully. We finally caved and got a DVD player for the headrest. I felt pretty guilty when I snuck a look over my shoulder and found Helen completely transfixed. She hardly made a peep for TWO hours. On the one hand, it was a beautiful thing no words can describe. On the other, it was a little disturbing to see her so absorbed. For two hours of no screaming in the car, I'm fairly certain I can get over it. Helen had a lot of fun with our friends and got tons of attention from her family. I've made a note-to-self about how awesome that is so the very next time I'm dragging my feet over driving to Iowa, I'll remember. Both Stewart and I grew up with extended families around us and we wouldn't trade that for anything. Our families live in Iowa. If we want Helen to feel the love, we've got to haul her little bum down there - she can't drive herself.

Weather permitting...we'll be back for Christmas!

"Turtle" is my favorite

2008-11-11T13:48:00.004-06:00

It's like someone flipped a switch. One day, Helen was jargoning away but not saying much in the way of recognizable words. The next, she's trying to say what we say. In the past couple of days, she's added "purple", "sticky" (syrup) and "crazy" to her column of words even a stranger would recognize. These are her first words - not "milk" but "crazy". She hangs with me all day, after all. She uses sign language for most common words. If you've got a little one and are considering sign language, I gotta tell you it's pretty amazing. We started with the usuals like "more", "drink", "eat", and "all done" when we first came home. Since then, Helen knows and uses tons of signs for colors, household objects, and activities. Even better than that, she can convey most of her wants/needs through signing which helps with frustration - phew.

The other switch that's flipped is the one labeled "Helen wants to do it herself/Helen doesn't want to do it because you want her to do it". She wants to read books herself, she wants to shut the baby gates herself, she wants to put her socks on herself, she won't put on her coat, she won't sit in her car seat, she won't sit in a shopping cart, etc. This amazing time, with her figuring out how to do so many things and how to influence her environment, is so wonderful to witness and also completely aggravating. I'm learning so much about patience, allowing for transitions, and striking an appropriate balance between process and goals. There's nothing like a toddler for shining the brightest light possible on your short-comings. Helen teaches me a lesson about myself every day and for that, I am thankful.

Halloween 2008 - the best we could do

2008-11-06T16:31:00.008-06:00

Capturing the moment...Helen in her lion costume, Halloween 2008

If we'd known better, we wouldn't have picked a costume that has to go over the head for a first-time costume wearer. Live and learn, first-time parents.

"Someone, anyone...help me get this thing OFF."

"Seriously. I want this off."

Fall images

2008-10-28T13:17:00.006-05:00

Showing H how to hold the oats in her hand for the goat to nibble.

That's corn, folks!

After all that, washing up is a must.

Averie helping Helen with her shoe.

It's so hard to choose.

This one feels right.

Aliyah, Mary Ellen, Helen, Averie and pumpkins as far as the eye could see.

Close up of our girls - home one year with big sis, Aliyah.

Someone conveniently rolled all the good pumpkins to the side of the patch - nice!

Riding along with some of our choices.

Only interested in sitting NEAR the leaves, not so much jumping in them.

Not much of a tummy there, lady.

Hauling her pumpkin up the steps to sit it next to Dad's and Mom's.

Helen wouldn't put her coat on but she allowed these two layers - go figure.

For the record, that's a scratch, not a pick...THIS time.

Putting away the garden hose for the colder weather.

FAMILY DAY!!

2008-10-08T14:09:00.000-05:00

One year ago today, we held our precious daughter in our arms for the very first time....

Helen...FINALLY!!

Happy tears.

I love this photo - what a sweetie.

Later that day back at the hotel, our first smile.

Daddy's girl, pretty much from Day One.

Like I said...!

Here's a little dance to celebrate our Family Day!

A week in the life...

2008-10-01T13:55:00.008-05:00

Earlier today - it's chilly out there, people.

Whaddaya think, these, although they're doing an Andy Warhol thing to my hair?

...or these?

...or BOTH?

Hey Jennifer Beals, I just loved you in Flashdance!

It can't be all smiles all the time.

(FYI: Dad put down the camera and helped her right away!)

This is what H does now when we say, "Smile!" - oh dear.

Halloween photo-op from last weekend.

Autumnal photo-op.

Friday, October 3, one year ago, Stewart and I boarded a plane to China. Can you believe that? It's been a whole year. We really had no idea what was in store for us and neither did Helen. We were delighted and excited beyond belief but she had no clue what was about to happen on October 8, 2007. She woke up that day and one of her nannies dressed her in a new pink outfit and onto the bus she went. Five or so hours later, she was put in our arms. It was the most wonderful day of our lives, no doubt. For Helen, one of the scariest, I'm sure. Here we are, the three of us, 12 months later. We love each other beyond compare. We can hardly comprehend the wisdom of complete strangers so very far away in Beijing having the good sense to paperclip our photos to Miss Helen's photos. In that moment, three people were bound together forever, a family was made and a love affair began.

The good times, they keep on rollin'

2008-09-22T15:16:00.004-05:00

Wearing dad's socks around the house, so cozy!

Who doesn't love argyle?

I walked into the kitchen the other day

and this is what I found...Ta-Da!

Slightly blurry pix of Helen's cute kicks. Remember how we bought tons of shoes in China?

"I'm outta here...oh, wait a sec...Dada!"

Last post I talked about what a hoot Helen is. Check it!

Dog days of summer

2008-09-10T20:48:00.008-05:00

Up...

...down!

Climbing up to the Big Slide.

The Big Slide - can't believe I'm going to admit this. I can't go down this slide with Helen. It's so narrow at the bottom that um...mommy's "hips" get stuck in the chute. Criminy.

I've been kidding Stewart that this photo of him reaching up to help Helen down the slide looks very Sistine Chapel, no?

Ready for dinner and bed.

Helping to push The Cadillac around the MN Zoo.

Mmmm...zoo gravel...delish.

Making a new friend.

Highly entertaining watching Helen try to round up the chickens.

Giving some thought to going down the slide all by herself.

Stewart had a few days off around Labor Day so we checked out the zoo and the neighborhood parks and wading pools. It was great spending those days together as a family but so hard when Tuesday rolled around and he headed back to work. Helen usually needs at least of day of transition after a change like that - me too. Cranky, cranky and she'll ask me all day, "Dada?" I tell her Dada's at the office doing his work there because someone has to keep us in diapers and beer. I don't really say that last part outloud.

Some of Helen's recent attempts to add to her vocabulary: groundhog (ga-ga), backpack (bah-pah) and eyebrow (ah-bow). I've been realizing more and more how complicated all this is. The other night she asked what was on the end table and I said, "Vase." She pointed to her face. "No, not FFFFace. VVVVVase." She looked at the vase again and pointed to her face. My favorite, though is that her default word is "bah" so if she asks what something is and she can't pronounce it (which she mostly can't yet) she'll make the first consonate sound and add "bah".

Example:

"Whassat?"

"That's a truck. Truck. Say truck."

"Bah."

"Can you say truck? Tih..tih..truck."

"Tih, tih...BAH!"

I love this kid. She is a hoot. So goofy and quick to laugh and giggle. She's a great dancer and she's even already got a couple of power moves. There's The Bouncing Knee Bend, The Foot Stomp and the ol' Ear to Shoulder. About 5:30, I crank up the radio or the iPod and we boogie. Come on over any weekday if you want join in on Dance Party '08!!

Helen's take on The Clean Plate Club

2008-08-25T13:25:00.005-05:00

"Visualize whirled peas"? In Helen's case, visualize whipping peas!

We're back!

2008-08-11T14:44:00.008-05:00

Hey everyone, we've been in Iowa visiting family. Had a great time - we love you guys! Check out some highlights:

Cousin Chelsea with Helen on the big slide. I think she wants to go down, what do you think?

Everybody knows swinging is more fun with your eyes CLOSED.

Cousin Hunter helping Helen stay upright in the water after a big mouthful of chlorine - that is a yuck face.

Helen sportin' her Olympic wreath. I'm thinking a gold medal in synchronized swimming...?

Hanging and snacking with Uncle Daniel on our last day with the Lynch Family.

Aunt Melissa (my sister) and Helen parking it on the bottom step. Helen's favorite place to sit and read books.

Uncle Adam, Stewart and Helen enjoying the beautiful evening before heading out for The Winding Stairs Festival Fiesta in Traer, Iowa - pork burgers and margaritas, an excellent combination!

The family with Stewart's good friend and classmate, Pete, and his wife, Melanie, at the Class of '83 reunion.

Getting some good lovin' from one of the toms on Grandpa's farm.

They grow up so fast, don't they?

2008-07-25T15:32:00.007-05:00

Remember this Red Couch photo?

Helen, Averie, Grace, Zoe (our Texas Twins, I apologize if I've got them turned around!), and Mary Ellen - October 2007

Remember this Brown Couch photo?

Helen, Averie, and Mary Ellen - April 2008

NEW! Blue Couch photo!

Mary Ellen, Averie and Helen - July 2008

They've grown up so much, oh my!

(Goes without saying, of course...we missed you, Texas!)

The porch is a cool place to play on a hot day.

Sending mommy and daddy a chip clip in the mail.

I'm telling you, the girl is going to be a yogini.

Downward Dog is still her favorite pose.

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

We're cramming it in, like we always do, during the summer months. That's what we all do here in the Midwest. As soon as it gets warm enough to wear shorts, you can expect your calendar to start filling up. Everyone goes and does June through September. Then we all go back inside and you won't see us again until next June. Minus our great Texas friends, our China travel group got together in Red Wing a couple of weekends ago. We feel so lucky to have connected with such a great group of people. How the girls have changed! Everyone is walking and some are even running. Helen's not running, yet - thankfully, but her latest is walking backward. It all started when we showed her how to back-up to her little kid chair to sit in it. Since then, she's been walking backward almost as much as forward. It's hilarious, I gotta say. The downside? It's just not that easy to spy obstacles when you're in reverse. Ask anyone who's run into their mailbox as they're backing out of the garage, for example. Not that I've ever done that.

Star Spangled Spectacular, Baby!

2008-07-17T13:49:00.002-05:00

Helen's First Fourth of July - Kiddie Parade, Storm Lake, Iowa.

Lisa, me, Helen, and Paige.

Brady, leading the girls with his sax - all in their matching shirts.

Beautiful Storm Lake in the background.

Our friend, Jana, and Helen at the Big Parade.

Dad, helping Helen with her sunglasses.

At home, first time in her swimsuit.

First time in the baby pool, non-plussed by the experience.

Took Helen to my hometown Fourth of July celebration. I figured the girl oughta get it right for her first one. Nothing beats The Star Spangled Spectacular. However, I have a question for the organizers this year...what is a parade without the Shiners driving their Magic Carpets in drill team formations? Seriously disappointing. Anyway, it was great to be back in Storm Lake as we don't get there very often and as always, it makes me miss my parents terribly. Since the baby pool photos were taken, Helen's come around a lot on the whole hanging in the water thing. Many evenings, we head out to the backyard for some fun in the pool while we watch for Stew to come home from work. It's so cute to see Helen in her suit, walking down the sidewalk towards the house with her Dad in his business attire. That's my next photo op, I think. I must capture that moment. In other news, Helen is talking up a storm. It's still mostly babble at this point but she speaks very passionately and has something to say on nearly every subject. I wonder who she gets that from?

Additional note: our friend Lori's daughter, Alex, is very ill. I mention this because her family is tirelessly looking for answers for their daughter and the only way those answers are going to come is if everyone who knows Alex tells everyone they know about Alex. Somewhere there's someone who can help her, if only the connection can be made.

Mobile shots

2008-07-09T14:15:00.000-05:00

I have some great photos from the Fourth of July in Storm Lake coming but I need to poke through them first, so here's a couple of cute shots from my cell taken over the past few months:

Stew's work friends held a little Welcome Helen party for us a few months ago.

That cake was seriously delicous.

Nice shades, Sister!

What happens on the way home from a play date - zzzzzz...

Getting fitted for her first pair of Stride Rites.

Enjoying a beautiful evening by dining curbside and giving Dad a smooch.

Helen's friend, Lily, helping her with her sandal.

Can ya come over today?

2008-07-01T13:48:00.006-05:00

My dear friend of 20 years, Lisa, and her family live close by and Helen/I like to trek out to their house whenever we can. They have a lovely home, a great play area in the backyard, awesome toys and there's always something yummy in the oven - woo hoo! Besides, Lisa and I get a chance to hang out, too. Thanks for having us over - see ya soon!

*****

Helen and Brady getting crazy (spring).

First time sitting at the table with the big kids, Brady and Paige.

Examining lunch.

A bib turned backwards makes an awesome cape.

Recent Vids

2008-06-24T13:48:00.005-05:00

Helen walking on full display in this latest video. I think it's just hilarious when she walks behind the sofa and all you can see is the top of her head. Maybe I should teach her the "fake walking down stairs" move?

Sadly, another abrupt ending (battery troubles yet again- I gotta work on that). However, you can see she's pretty much got it down in terms of facial feature points of interest. Hurray!

Weekends around here

2008-06-16T13:57:00.005-05:00

Must hold the red block but gotta have a free hand to push the mower. What to do? What to do?

Problem solved.

Engine trouble.

Working the cuteness.

Helen and her friend, Ely, chillin' on the porch.

Here she comes...there she goes

2008-06-09T13:57:00.003-05:00

Recently

2008-06-02T13:05:00.006-05:00

Two weekends ago, we packed up the Element and headed to Iowa for our nieces' high school graduation parties. We really enjoyed ourselves, seeing everyone we were able to see. Unfortunately, Helen came down with strep throat on Sat/Sun. After having spent the whole night Saturday taking turns holding her while she cried, we made our second trip to Urgent Care Sunday. We'd been there on Saturday but we were too soon and so the strep test had showed a false negative. After that terrible night, we knew we had to have her checked out again and sure enough. Poor thing. The Urgent Care doc let us know that Helen was contagious at that point so we made the difficult decision to head back to the Twin Cities and doing so, we had to miss Brittny's doin's. We were so bummed! Thankfully, we stayed at the farm packing up our things long enough that we missed the devastating tornado that went through the area.

Huge CONGRATS to Chelsea and Brittny - we're so proud!

Posing with one of our graduates, Chelsea.

Yesterday - Helen preparing for her Rockettes audition.

Yesterday - Stewart sporting Helen around the Hyland Lake play area in Bloomington. Thanks to Rob and Benjamin for inviting us to join you!

This one is for Aunt Sue:

Today - Helen, a budding artist?

Don't mind me, just mowing the lawn

2008-05-22T09:20:00.005-05:00

First of all and this just has to be said...I was completely freaked out by Carrie Underwood on American Idol last night, weren't you? Girl got hit by a truck carrying Dolly Parton's rejected costumes (and for the record, I loves me some Dolly), Mystic Tan supplies, hilarious song lyrics and diet supplements. Holy cow and yikes. Nice legs, though.

We've put Helen to work out in the yard:

Random shots from the past week

2008-05-14T14:17:00.002-05:00

Helen loves to hold small items between her toes. Maybe she's preparing for flip-flops?

Just in case you needed a close-up of that...!

This one is for Aunt Mary:

Helen enjoying some baked beans. Yummy, a family favorite!

May Day Parade 2008

2008-05-09T09:50:00.007-05:00

Helen rockin' her Peruvian poncho (Bruno/Allyson - thanks!).

It was a lovely day for the doings.

Our friends, Liz and Owen, taking in the parade curbside.

Some of the parade action - I'm not sure...mushroom people?

(Check out the huge, cool face in the background.)

Helen with her dad and Owen's dad, Dennis.

All the awesome Powderhorn Parkers and their kids in homemade costumes. Always brings a tear to my eye.

Daughter and dad (squinting in the beautiful sunshine).

That face is in the dictionary under "Naptime".

Happy May Day!

Helen's First Steps - May 2, 2008

2008-05-03T10:18:00.007-05:00

Fair warning: I was so excited to catch this moment on video that not only is there (1) a huge "WooHOO!" from me, so watch your volume, but there's (2) a big jerk upwards at one point because I pumped my fist. A couple of days short of 17 months - a BIG/BIG day at our house!

Check it out...

FIRST HAIRCUT AND EVEN BETTER - April 26, 2008

2008-04-29T10:09:00.004-05:00

BEFORE - slightly worried...

Although Helen's stylist in San Francisco, her friend Matt, recently recommended no changes - her 'do was getting so shaggy, I had to do a tiny little something. The lady was real nice but Helen was right to be skeptical. She didn't do a very good job. Thank goodness, you can't see the back in this cutie-pie AFTER pix. I fixed it myself this morning with the help of the Teletubbies and Lisa's Bumbo seat.

BIG NEWS: HELEN TOOK HER FIRST STEP THIS WEEKEND!

She did it once for Stew and once for me and that was that. Not a shuffle since, but lots of standing up and looking ready to take off!

Helen, the yogini. What do you think of her Downward Dog?

Feeling good, looking good.

This sweater is the very first thing Stew bought for Helen at least a year, if not longer, before we even knew about her. Helen's Chinese middle name is "Zi", which means Royal Purple. Coincidence?

A few for the Aunts

2008-04-23T13:18:00.003-05:00

This one is for Aunt Barb - brush, brush, brush. You'd be SO proud.

A fresh, clean feeling - fabulous!

This one is for Aunt Missy - looking good in your cute outfit.

A snack trap for the car is a beautiful thing, especially if it's clipped on and I don't have to search for it on the floor behind my seat while I'm trying to drive...safely, while watching the road and other drivers, and obeying all traffic signals.

Helen Clapping - April 2008

2008-04-15T13:31:00.004-05:00

At our house, April has been a big month. Today at lunch, Helen finally got her hands turned around and going the right way. I'm SO excited for her, as you can hear in the video - she was pretty happy, too. Way to go, tiny sister!

Helen Standing - April 2008

2008-04-12T10:49:00.004-05:00

We've been having just a terrible time trying to load video to the blog all week but today...SUCCESS!

Here she is in action, complete with drool. The six teeth coming in has turned into EIGHT. Can you believe that? The poor dear and with a cold, to boot. Still, she has been an absolute trooper though it all. Yesterday, she tried to take a step - leaned her upper body forward but the lower portion was not along for the ride. BOOM...header on the hardwood floor. I was right there but when your head is 1/3 of your body and 1/2 your body weight, that thing hits the floor in a nanosecond, no? Yes. We're sure any day now, the lower body will get in gear, locomote forward with the upper body, and she'll be off!

China Travel Group Reunion

2008-04-08T10:55:00.006-05:00

Helen's got SIX teeth coming in at once, so it's been kind of rough at our house as of late. But...we were able to get together this weekend with two of the three families from our China travel group. Our fourth family lives in Texas but we've been able to keep in-touch over the phone. All the girls are doing just great (Grace and Zoe, our Texas Twins, included!), as you can see in these photos:

Mary Ellen, Helen (standing on her own - woo hoo!) and Averie.

Helen showing her O.C.D. tendencies, picking up every minuscule bit and showing it to whomever will look - in this case, Mary Ellen.

Standing AND clapping at the same time = an Advanced Move.

Red Couch photo while in China, October 2007 - sort of the "Before" photo, for comparison purposes.

(Helen - 10 months, Averie - 9 months, Twins - Grace and Zoe - 11 months, and Mary Ellen - 8 months)

Leather Couch photo, April 2008 - the "After" photo!
(Helen - 16 months, Averie - 15 months and Mary Ellen - 14 months)

The girls with Averie's big sister, Aliya.

We had a grand time at the Johnson's, catching up, playing, watching what the girls are up to now, going for a stroller walk to enjoy the beautiful day, sharing a great meal and taking updated photos of our group. We missed you, Texas! Maybe next time?! I heard the weather today and it's in the 80's where you are and in the 30's here, so perhaps we should come to you...now...today...? It was great to see everyone and spend time with dear friends with whom we've shared an amazing adventure.

I mentioned a few weeks ago that I was planning on posting about adoption parenting, attachment and how Helen is doing - but honestly, I haven't had time to sit down and sort through/organize my thoughts. It's so huge, not to mention such a personal topic - I haven't decided how best to even approach it yet. Hope to at least start typing up some thoughts soon. I'll keep the photos coming 'cuz I know that's what y'all want anyway, right!

Easter weekend

2008-03-24T11:20:00.008-05:00

Still under the gun here at naptime so a few photos to hold you...

March in Minnesota - spring, where are you?!

Modeling the shark pj's

Slap me some skin, sister!

Reading with mom before bed.

Going in for the smooch!

Easter Sunday brunch at Liz, Dennis and Owen's house. Helen decided Dennis' awesome french toast was a heck of a lot better than the toaster version I've tried to give her at home. Perhaps mom needs to step up her effort a little bit?!

(Helen's cousin Abby requested that I share what was in Helen's Easter baskets: 2 very cute and cuddly stuffed animals - ducky and bunny, 2 books - Sesame Street and Peter Rabbit, some gummies - she likes to carry around the package and squish them in her hand, and a DVD - Big Bird in China.)

Naps

2008-03-21T17:58:00.002-05:00

Hey, sorry I haven't had a chance to post yet this week. Helen's naptimes have been really short (looks like she's got some big ol' molars coming in) and that's when I usually get the chance to blog. Hang in there with us and I'll post again as soon as things sort themselves out here - I'll shoot for a post by the end of the weekend...over and out.

First attempt

2008-03-12T16:08:00.005-05:00

Ok, so I realize this little video cuts off abruptly but I just wanted to figure out how this whole posting a video thing works. Unfortunately, my camera's battery ran out just then - how inconvenient. Anyhoo, now that I see how easy it is you can expect great things to come. Well, great might be overstating it so how about this...you can expect videos in the future, some of which may be great. So that's our little Helen in action. Our friend Liz brought over that fun ball popper this past weekend and H luuhvs it. (I couldn't remember what it was called while I was trying to talk to Helen and help her and tape her all at the same time!! "Is that your ball............popper?" Funny.)

Woo hoo - mommy and daddy love free toys!

Next blog post, I think I'll talk a little bit about adoption parenting and how Helen is doing with some of the bigger stuff like attachment/bonding, etc. If you're interested in all that, come on back next week. If you're just wanting to see more photos of my cute kid (and I really don't blame you), I'll see what I can do for you guys, too.

Snapped with my phone in the car (not while driving) earlier this week

2008-03-05T16:42:00.002-06:00

Helen seems to be returning to her normal self over the past 24 hours. Her color is better and nothing gross has happened since Sunday. At music class this morning, she was smiling, laughing and crawling around visiting her neighbors in the circle. YAY! We're so relieved she's feeling better and are looking forward to her 15-month check up tomorrow. I am hoping to be reassured that she's getting everything she needs from cheese, fruit and bread - since that's all she'll eat. Perhaps she'll move to France one day!

The Flu...boooooooo (said in The Princess Bride voice)

2008-02-29T09:50:00.004-06:00

No photo updates today, sorry kids. The flu has come to visit our little Helen.

What a sad face! ...and wow, is that "stuff " super gross.

This morning, I called a dear friend for any advice she had for me. She said, "Towels on the floor, plenty of Diet Coke for you, and just hold her." Very wise words from a great mom.

I'm feeling that heart pange you get when you realize what YOUR mom/parents did for you when you were little. I'm so happy we can be here for her and she's so happy Farmer Jeb (her favorite) is here for her, too.

6:00 PM

2008-02-22T09:55:00.005-06:00

Woo Hoo! Dad's home...

So glad to see YOU!

Smooch!

Posing for Mom.

Happy Chinese New Year 2008

2008-02-19T15:19:00.001-06:00

Our friends and travelmates, the Johnson Family, invited us over for their annual Chinese New Year party. We had a great time making new acquaintances and tasting everyone's delicious offerings! A lot of the kids were sporting their traditional outfits - here's Helen in hers.

(What's up with that expression?! Hilarious.) You can see how her hair is really growing. For comparison purposes, click on October 2007 in the Archives - wow.

Helen and I think we need to move to Florida

2008-02-13T11:44:00.001-06:00

Getting ready to go to the grocery store for milk on a winter's day in Minnesota...

...and not too happy about it.

Mmmmmm, zipper...that's good chewing.

Your next American Idol

2008-02-07T15:17:00.000-06:00

Power ballad.

Making it her own, dawg.

If you'd like to vote for Helen, you can text the word "VOTE" to...

All in a day's work for Helen

2008-01-30T09:15:00.000-06:00

Learning to use a spoon. With a little help, she's pretty good!

Chewing on the other end is, perhaps, more fun.

Helen loves making the Little People's House toilet flush. She flushes and flushes and flushes.

Reading Is Fundamental

2008-01-30T09:09:00.000-06:00

Reading books before bed with Dad.

In Minnesota, the Sleep Sack is a MUST!

Helen would rather read books than play with her toys. Current favorite: Busy Monkeys. She could listen to that book all day and some days...does! She knows what a monkey says and the past few days, when she sees a picture of an animal, pretty much any animal, she makes the monkey noise, "Ooooh, ooooh, ooooh". In her case it's actually more of a "mmm, mmm, mmm". She also knows where her feet, toes, and belly button are! Grandpa Pokorny will be pleased to learn Dad has taught her "pupik" as well - Czech word for belly button.

I'm amazed at how much I'm learning every day - about Helen and about myself. Lots and lots about myself. I've learned that I'm not as patient as I thought I was and I'm more selfish then I knew. With those 2 things in mind, how our day goes at home together is all up to me. Helen is a week away from 14 months and she is very busy with that. The only one standing in our way of having a great day is me. It only took me about 3 months to figure that out... What a life lesson that is, huh? Being home with her every day is the most difficult and awesome thing I've ever done. Some days 6:00, when Stew gets home from work, cannot come soon enough. That said, those days often end up being the best ones because I've managed to learn something very important. After dinner, I usually collapse on the sofa and watch as Stew plays or reads with Helen. It's this perspective, this little bit of distance after a paticularly long day, that always gets me. As I watch this amazing, beautiful, smart, hilarious kid play with her daddy before bed, I get a little weepy. How lucky I am. How very lucky, indeed.

Finally - Christmas 2007 pix

2008-01-25T08:57:00.000-06:00

Stacking cups Christmas tree.

Aunt Missy showing off Helen's Christmas dress.

Christmas in Iowa!

Opening presents at home.

Grandkids with Grandpa - Helen taking a good look at cousin Abby.

Getting a squeeze from Aunt Barb.

I know I promised Christmas photos for my next post but this is WAAAY better...

2008-01-17T16:34:00.000-06:00

Today - Thursday, January 17, 2008 - I said, "I love you" to Helen and she said, "luh yuh" back to me. I know I've been up since about 5:15 this morning and am slightly delirious, but I'm telling you she said "luh yuh" to me. That was the best thing EVER.

Who needs socks?!

Milestone, baby!

2008-01-10T14:59:00.000-06:00

AND HELEN IS...

UP!

ALL THE WAY UP!

Sorry, this last one's a bit blurry but I was clicking fast to catch her on tippy-toes. She's been pulling herself up since Sunday - so surprised when we walked into her room to get her up from her nap and she was standing in her crib! Finally had the camera at the ready and captured it. Stewart and I are having such a great time watching Helen cruise through her milestones, ticking them off her list, one after another. A few Christmas photos still coming...

New photos!

2008-01-03T14:43:00.000-06:00

Very serious about scaling dad's legs.

At least once a day, Helen crawls over to visit her friend - the Huggies baby.

While there's something a bit "Girl with Pearl Earring" about this, I swear to you the hat is cute in person. Love this photo because you can sort of see what she's going to look like when she grows up.

Sorry I've been away so long! The holidays, what can I say. Stewart's back at work (bummer) and Helen/I are back to our regularly scheduled programming. We had a wonderful first Christmas together and will share some holiday photos in my next post.

Helen has changed so much in the last month. This weekend, she stood unassisted for a few seconds a couple of times and I wish I could describe the noise she made when she realized what she was doing. It was a hilarious combination of laughing and freaking out all at once. She's all over the floor, crawling after us where ever we go. Once she realized she could follow us, she was much happier, indeed. Changing diapers has become an all out war - her against us. Our baby book says to learn to change her while she's standing up and all I could think was "Really? Huh." Do ya really do that? It sounds impossible. She's just begun copying noises we make, especially when we're reading books. So cute. I'm suspicious that "Nah-nah" is me and am hoping that's NOT her commenting on my age.

If I can figure out how to load some video in the next couple of weeks, I'll treat ya'll to Helen In Action! Stay tuned...

Sharing our birthday

2007-12-10T08:57:00.000-06:00

Helen sporting her Tiger Hat (thanks Allyson!) on her First Birthday.

Chinese Folklore - babies wear this hat on their one year birthday to catch all the heavenly goodness falling between the tiger's ears.

Yukking it up with Dad.

Yukking with mom.

On our birthday, I took Helen to Stew's work and the three of us had a nice lunch together. Later at home, we did the birthday cupcake thing (still poking through those photos for a good one - stay tuned) and opened cards and gifts. On Saturday, we had brunch out with friends. Have to say, my best birthday ever - sharing it with Helen!

My Uncle Roger and Aunt Connie visiting us in MN this past weekend.

Helen continues to do so well. She had her 12 month check-up last week and had grown almost 3 inches since her medical exam in China, putting her in the 56 percentile for height! The doctor was so happy with her progress that she said Helen is now within the normal range developmentally, as well. I have to admit, I got a little weepy (with joy) over how quickly she's caught up. She has amazed Stew and me every day but it meant so much to have the doctor confirm her progress!

Thanksgiving

2007-12-01T17:51:00.000-06:00

Day after Thanksgiving at Grandpa Pokorny's.

Check it out - she's using a sippy cup!

With cousins Ashley, Brianna, Ellie and Elizabeth.

Posing with cousin Abby.

Playing with cousin Gabe.

Bonding with Grandpa Pokorny.

Giving herself a kiss.

Classic bath shot.

We had a great time in Iowa over Thanksgiving, spending a few days with my sister and her family and a few days with the Pokornys. Helen made the ride down with barely a peep - she slept and hung out for 4.5 hours! Couldn't believe it as she'd really been stuggling with sitting in her carseat. Once in Iowa, she napped and slept through the nights like a trooper. We're SO lucky she's a good sleeper. Was fun watching her take-in each new family member and a couple even managed to successfully hold her for a little bit without tears! Baby steps on that front, but making progress. She had fun playing with all her cousins and aunts, uncles, both regular and great, and grandpa. So many wonderful people! Really wish a few pictures from our time at my sister's house turned out, but alas, they didn't so we'll give it another try at Christmas.

Thursday is Helen and my birthday! Will post the obligatory baby with first birthday cake photos so stay tuned. Will be thinking of Helen's birth family on her big day. We hope they have some sense that she is well, happy, and surrounded by love.

Highchair shots

2007-11-19T16:55:00.000-06:00

Things are going really well at home! Helen is sleeping great, two naps and through the night. We've got our sleep routine and most of the time we're able to put her down with very little difficulty. Couple rounds of Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and the kid is reaching for her crib. Is she tired or does she just want us to stop singing, I don't know but it's working so either way, right?

Mondays are hard days so far, as Stewart goes off to work. Helen and I both get a little fussy. We've had lots of visitors and done a fair amount of visiting ourselves. Last week, I took Helen to Stew's work for lunch and to meet folks (shoutout to the kind folks at UHG!). We also trekked out to our good friends, the Sahrs, for a super fun playdate for the kids and their moms. It was great practice for our Thanksgiving trip to Iowa since it was a longer car ride and I was able to put her down for a nap in the pack-n-play with no trouble. The girl is a trooper, seriously. Also managed to make it to playgroup with some friends who have previously adopted from China. We're so happy to have these wonderful families in our lives.

Helen has gained over a pound in the past couple of weeks and if you check out the photos below, I think you can see it in her face. Even her legs are getting a little pudge to them and it does our hearts good to see her thriving.

She likes that foot.

Um...wrong end, sister.

Is that the beginnings of a double-chin I see there? YAY!

First Halloween

2007-11-02T19:44:00.000-05:00

If she's already giving us this look, can you imagine the teen years?!

Digging having her socks off.

Our little pumpkin.

Pumpkin pie, Helen? No, I've got my pumpkin foot, thanks though.

AND A VERY HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY TO OUR DEAR NIECE ABBY KOPRIVA!!

Photos from home

2007-10-30T15:11:00.000-05:00

First ride in the Cadillac of strollers!

Started sitting up on her own as soon as we got home.

Boogers and drool - girl knows how to work a look.

I'm so relieved she thinks we're funny. I think that'll carry us a long way.

Nonplussed about her first time in her highchair.

This is what happened when we turned on the TV, for a minute, just to see what would happen.

Progress!

2007-10-29T09:34:00.000-05:00

Helen is making great progress in getting through the night. Three nights ago, she awoke a couple of times and fussed but was able to go back to sleep. Two nights ago, she had a hard time settling down to go to bed but once down, she stayed there. Last night, she went down like a rock at 7:30, woke up a few times early on and babbled but did not melt down. When Stew went in to check on her this morning at 7:00, she was still out. Such good news for all three of us. You can see it all over her face, that's she's started to "catch-up" on her sleep. It does our hearts good to hear her waking up babbling instead of crying - knowing that she's getting more familiar with her crib, her room, and us - that when she wakes up, she knows where she is and feels safe and happy. We've been leaving a nightlight on in her room and that seems to have helped tremendously.

Will get Stew on loading new photos at home, so stay tuned!

Home, Safe and Sound

2007-10-23T11:40:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, sorry to leave you hanging out there like that for a few days. We've just been getting our butts kicked by the time change. We've got 13 hours to find and I think we're only finding about 1 hour a day. Poor Helen. She is struggling so with the switch to opposite days and nights. Progress is slow but we're trying to maintain our sense of humor and do everything we can to try to help her transition, not only to the new hours, but also to everything being all new again.

The flight was fairly uneventful, with Helen sleeping a good portion of the time. She had her own seat so we made a little bed for her. Stew was able to catch a few winks, as well, but I was bug-eyed awake for all but about 20 minutes. Enough about us...back to Helen...

Arriving in the U.S.

Showing everyone how she can stand like a big girl!

Welcome home, peanut!

One for the Road

2007-10-18T09:17:00.000-05:00

Heather is taking a quick shower and then we're going to finish up packing. It's about 10:30pm and we leave for the airport at 5:30am. We've had an amazing experience in China. I really hope we will be able to come back someday. Although we are sad to go, we are ready to come home. We're looking forward to seeing friends and family and having everyone meet Helen. -Stewart

Red Couch photo and more

2007-10-17T08:49:00.000-05:00

White Swan Red Couch - traditional garb

During the photo shoot Helen gets a bit of attention from these great ladies.

Molly and Helen

Raspberries - number one favorite passtime.

Can you tell she's feeling better?!

Done with having her pix taken.
(Just in case you're thinking all she does is smile...!)

We're packing 'er up today. Stew bought an extra suitcase last night so we can haul all our extra crap home. He paid $15 for it and we have NO idea if it'll make it so we're packing our clothes in it, which are replaceable, instead of our treasures, which are not. I think we'll scare up a luggage strap or two to give it it's best chance for survival.

Can't post photos again - lame

2007-10-16T07:13:00.000-05:00

Sorry about no pix this time. Apparently, Blogger knows about the problem and is working on a fix which I do appreciate, but... The walkabout we did today was so interesting. Just what you might think - old China meets new China at every corner. Stew got some excellent shots so hoping we can get those to you soon. Speaking of Stew, he's feeling improved but I am still down with a cold. It's funny how many packing lists I looked at but not once did it occur to me to bring cold medicine or Nyquil for myself! Next time? Helen did not have to wear her cap today or ever again. She's done - she's free! She was so happy and so were we. Her head spots are totally on the mend and I'd say she's 90% over her cold. She's still teething, so has her fussy moments but she's a baby and that's what babies sometimes do, right? She accidently scratched me good today, must trim nails... We can't believe we're coming home in a couple of days! Will post again soon if we can get those photos uploaded. Thanks for checking the blog and keeping up with our comings/goings. xxoo

Walkabout photos!

2007-10-16T03:53:00.000-05:00

Just a short walk from our hotel, there's a street where Traditional Chinese Medicine pharmacies come to buy their ingredients wholesale.

Bags of seahorses for medicine.

Midmorning shoppers.

Bundles of snakeskins, bags of starfish, etc, for medicine.

Kitties, puppies, and birds for sale as pets (not medicine!).

That's me pushing Helen - we're getting the hairy eyeball from the woman in white on the right, the women in red on the left AND the dude with the man-purse.

At the end of this street lies a ginormous Holiday Inn, old meets new.

Turn the corner and...NEW.

The new moms with Molly, shopping plaza. McDonalds and KFC, check.

We asked Molly if this guy was advertising for a store and she giggled and said, "No, I think this man just wants to be a clown." I think so, too.

I took too long in the CD store, oops!

Cuteness overload

2007-10-15T02:52:00.000-05:00

Big fan of the thumb.

Molly, our agency facilitator, giving the peace sign like it's 1972.

Baby needs some new shoes.

Entrance to beautiful park we visited. The water from the fountain flowed all the way down the middle section of the steps.

About to laugh or about to cry, you decide...

Crazy birds-in-flight topiaries.

The winner = about to laugh!

Golden girls take a walk.

My "US Weekly" shot.

It's not the color that needs correcting here, it's the pollution, man.

Group shot. (Sorry it's so far away, no time to crop.)

Family photo, Helen still zonked. I swear she's feeling ok, it's just our carrier puts her right to sleep.

My favorite photo so far. Peanut.

This morning the doctor said Helen's head is looking so good, we don't have to go back tomorrow! She'll be cap free starting Tuesday. This makes all three of us extremely happy. We had a great day today, free in the morning so first leisurely breakfast of the trip. It's so fun to go down to the breakfast buffet at the White Swan because all the other adopting families are there around the same time and, of course, they seat us all in a big group. We hang out and socialize and carbo-load for the rest of the day. Today, a woman from New York and her business partner approached us and said that they came over for the breakfast buffet from another hotel specifically to see all the new adoptive families whenever they visit Guangzhou.

Later, we did some shopping with The Johnson's (friends from our group) and had a nice lunch on our own at Lucy's (this joint down the street that serves American food). Sometimes ya just need a little taste of home (even if it is their interpretation of that taste). Stew had a cheeseburger and fries and I had cheese pizza. Oddly, the pizza had no sauce so was actually like cheese bread which is nothing to complain about in my book.

Speaking of lunch, I forgot to tell you this - the other day Stew really wanted noodles so we asked one of the locals and they sent us to the restaurant in the Shamian Hotel, right down the street. We walked in and the menu, though providing English subtitles, was a little vague on details and even the pictures of the choices were so poor/far away that we really couldn't make heads nor tails out of the thing. Finally, we picked out a broth soup with some steamed pork dumplings but when we tried to pick out a noodle dish, I made the mistake of stearing Stew away from his first impulse towards another photo that looked to me like pan-fried noodles with thinly sliced veggies. We should have known something was up when 1) the description said something about Chef's Special, and 2) the server gave us a rather curious look. When they brought the plate out, all the Chinese people in the room turned to stare at us - waiting for our reaction. Stew and I looked at each other and through smiling, clenched teeth said to one another, "What is that? I don't know. I don't know either. Keep smiling. It looks like bugs. I think it IS bugs." The stuff that looked like bugs wasn't bugs, it was bug larve, and the stuff that looked like crispy-fried greenbeans turned out to be crispy-fried minnows. You read that correctly, friend. Bottom line: we pretended like we didn't know what it was and we ate it. Not too bad. Hey, trip of a life time - when in China, right?

Tomorrow we're going on a walkabout with Molly to Quing Ping Market, where they sell Traditional Chinese Medicine fixins, and Shang Xia Jiu Road, a well-known shopping street. We're hitting the Pearl Market, baby stores, and a DVD/music store. Can't wait to experience all that!

Zoo Day

2007-10-13T04:41:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or does Helen look slightly skeptical about my ability to navigate us around the zoo?

(In my defense, the map was terrible.)

Asian elephant, female.

Helen and me wondering around the beautifully landscaped zoo.

Asian elephant, male.

We love that eye contact - good for bonding!

We decided to call this camel with the lips Elvis

Entrance into an area of the zoo.

Stew couldn't resist taking this photo of the men's room.

The baby.

Check out the mullets on these guys - the one in the red shirt had a longer piece on each side in the back...very nice.

Stew's training for National Geographic.

Group watching the hippo.

Hippo enjoying the sprinkler.

Zoo groundskeeper.

We actually took these photos yesterday. We had a nice day at the zoo and then we had the afternoon to ourselves to do whatever. For a bit, I hung in the room and cleaned things up and organized everything for today since we always have to get going pretty early to make breakfast, take Helen to the hotel clinic to have her head spots looked at, and then meet our group by 9:00 - phew. While I was doing that, Stew took Helen for a walk and returned with FIVE new pairs of shoes for Helen! She had a pair on and was so happy, I think he created a monster! He was a great shopper and picked up supplies we needed, he also got Helen a new toy and a gift for me. Is that a good guy or what? Helen feels better everyday from her cold and the head treatments are really helping, though as I mentioned, that cap drives her nuts - so itchy. She's ok with it until about 3:00 and then she's had it - who can blame her? Stew's feeling like he's on the mend but now it's my turn. I'm still trying to ward it off before it becomes full-blown. Other than the health update, I want to let everyone know that Helen is doing well with us. She has good eye contact and has started to put her arm around our necks. It's so amazing to witness her willingness to trust us. Things Stew and I need to get better/quicker at: getting her dressed and washing her hair. Things we are very good at: changing diapers on the bus and getting that bottle made and in the pie hole right quick.

Today we visited a beautiful and peaceful hillside garden and then went to a tea house for a tasting. Tomorrow is free in the morning and lots of paperwork in the afternoon.

Everyone is so pleasant to us and is very interested in Helen, smiling and nodding their approval. Not everyone here feels the same way, of course, but so many are supportive and the ones who are not don't pay any attention to us. The city is gorgeous with trees and flowers everywhere. The pollution is terrible, as you've probably read, and the driving is insane. We really miss everyone at home but are really enjoying our time in this amazing country.

Apparently, the key is to post pix in the middle of the day here

2007-10-13T03:45:00.000-05:00

View out our window - White Swan Hotel

Temple where the babies were blessed.

Three Buddhas inside representing past, present and future.

Helen's reaction to the blessing - the chanting put her right to sleep.

(I believe this is your first chance to see her with her cap. It's keeping the medicinal patches to her head. Yeah, she doesn't like it one bit but whaddya gonna do?!)

Family shot in front of China's only female Buddha. Helen = still zonked.

Outside the temple. Many streets in Guangzhou are very beautiful.

We see people working all around the city keeping everything looking nice.

The other day, we saw a man paddling around in a boat clearing branches from the water in a little canal near our hotel.

Common site while driving around the city. Family's don't have washers/dryers so there's always clean laundry hanging up.

Helen tasting the bedspread.

Once again,having trouble posting pix

2007-10-12T09:02:00.000-05:00

So sorry to report this trouble again. Don't know if Blogger is having trouble because I can't see their site in China, I can only post. It could be on my end but I don't think so. I'll try again tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon, ok? Ok. I'm so bummed about it but I've tried over and over to upload the pix from today but no luck and I just have to get some sleep so am going to give up for tonight.

Overview of the day: our travel group took our daughters to a temple where they bless the babies. That was cool and we caused quite a stir. We have twins in our group so everywhere we go many people are very interested in these two girls. Many people also ask us if Helen is the triplet and comment that she looks so much like the twins but I'm telling you - she does not. They are very beautiful girls and so is Helen, of course, but no resemblance. From their point of view = yes. So interesting.

Had a group dinner tonight with our agency facilitator, Molly. Stew stayed back at the hotel to take it easy with his cold. Helen was feeling good so she and I went. We had a good time and she let me know when it was time to go - I love her spunk!

We may go to the zoo tomorrow but we'll play it by ear for both Helen and Stew. Sunday is another down day with paperwork resuming on Monday.

Sorry no pix today

2007-10-11T09:09:00.000-05:00

Blogger is having difficulties so I can't post any photos before I go to bed tonight. Sorry about that. I have a cute one of Stew and Helen after her bath, all wrapped up in a towel. (Helen, not Stew.) Had a long day with everyone feeling a bit under the weather here. Stew and I are pretty sure we're catching what Helen has but we are faithfully taking the awesome stuff our dear friend Fred gave us to take if such a thing happened. Tomorrow we're hoping to do some sightseeing if we're all up for it. Amazingly, Helen likes to go and do even though she is not 100%. She is very curious about goings on around her and loves all the attention she gets from everyone especially now that she is sporting her fabulous gauze cap. Will take more photos tomorrow and hopefully, successfully post them tomorrow night (our time). We love and miss ya'll - over and out.

Busy Day

2007-10-10T08:23:00.000-05:00

Wednesday morning in China.

Breakfast in bed.

Outside the visa photo office with our friend James. He stopped on his bike and asked if he could practice his English with us. He asked me if I'd seen Terminator 3, went on to say that he thinks Arnold is much thinner now.

Medical exam - not so sure about having her armpit invaded for the purposes of taking her temperature (normal).

Today was another amazing day. We had Helen's visa photo taken (cute) and then her medical exam, which went well (brave girl). Then our facilitator took Stew, Helen and me on a little adventure which I will tell you all about when we get home. We love our contact here, Molly is her English name, and she is a real peach. Would do anything for us. Went back to the hotel and Stew and I decided to take Helen to Starbuck's for lunch. Sat outside and enjoyed the beautiful day. Later in the afternoon, we met our group again and went to apply for Helen's passport (no photos allowed inside) and to a government-run grocery store for supplies. No photos there, either. We caused enough of a scene just being there without snapping pictures! Helen's been sleeping so well and is feeling much improved (less congested). Tomorrow we're going to have the doctor look at the spots on her head so photos of her from now on may very well show her sporting a little gauze cap - just a head's up so you're not startled by that. It looks worse than it is. Also tomorrow, we have a free day so we're hoping to do a little bit of shopping and relaxing. Sounds awesome after 3 really busy days! All is well here - thinking of you all at home and missing everyone.

It's final!

2007-10-09T08:14:00.001-05:00

Today we registered our adoption with Guangdong Province and visited the notary, making our adoption of Helen final! Woo Hoo! We're a family! Tomorrow we do more paperwork, visit the clinic for her required medical check-up, have her visa photo taken, and apply for her Chinese passport. Big, busy day. Then it's a few days of freetime while everything gets processed.

Stewart just put Helen down, our Heavy Sleeper (!!), for the night. She slept 10 hours straight-through last night. We did not. We kept waking up and checking to see if she was breathing, just like everyone says! She's been a little fussier today because of her congestion and all the big changes but Stew had her in stitches this afternoon. He's so good at that! I'm not as handy as Stew is with the camera but I promise to post some photos of Helen with her dad soon.

We can't thank you guys enough for all the love!! Our hearts are full.

Baby is sleeping, so parents must sleep now, too...

Finally, the Big Day!

2007-10-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

We hit if off right away!

Back at the room, first of many smiles.

Brown goop on her head is treating her baby acne (like mom/like daughter) Traditional Chinese Medicine-style.

She seems to like us!

Helen ROCKS!

She has four teeth that we've seen so far and a little bit of a cold. Thanks to Tracy for teaching us the awesome "Here comes the mouse, from the barn to the house..." that ends in tickling because it has been a ginormous hit with Helen. She laughed and laughed, every single time. It's hard to put in words what it was like for us when they called our name today. She looked at us with this expression like, "Well, I guess I'll go with you guys now. Whatya got?" It seems, so far at least, like she is in favor of all this. We couldn't be happier.

It's been a whirlwind since Sunday morning

2007-10-08T00:40:00.000-05:00

We've started a blog post about Sunday but haven't had a chance to finish it yet because it's been non-stop action here. I'll try to post it some time Monday night but for now...we're leaving for the Provincial Office in 15 minutes to get Helen! Diaper bag and camcorder have been triple checked. We are trying to stay calm but it's super hard - can't believe it's finally THE DAY.

Stay tuned...

Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

2007-10-07T19:00:00.000-05:00

Tiananmen Squarem, folks lined up outside to view Chairman Mao's body.

Stewart in front of the 2008 Beijing Olympics Official Countdown Clock.

Olympic topiaries and those that guard them.

Entrance to The Fobidden City.

Funky theatre people from Northwestern China posing with our guide, Peter, outside The Forbidden City.

Inside outer city of The Forbidden City.

Entering the inner city where the Emporers lived.

Only the Emporer could use yellow tiles for his roofs.

Arriving in Guangzhou from Beijing with our friends and travelmates, Vonna and Sean. Sean cracked everyone up on the plane by enthusiastically participating in the flight attendant led stretching exercises. I accidently bumped the light switch in the gangway, turning off the lights on everyone...twice. That was after I busted my seat's recline button on the flight from Tokyo to Beijing. Three mechanics were called in and the flight was delayed 30 minutes because my seat would not stay in the "upright position". I'm not kidding.

Wed, Thur, Fri and Sat

2007-10-06T08:37:00.000-05:00

Wednesday afternoon at MSP getting busted by TSA for having too many liquids in my Ziplock bag. At least the agent had a sense of humor about it. He said,"I'm afraid you've let us down, ma'am."

Thursday night, Tokyo. Lost in Translation-style.

Friday, approach to The Great Wall.

Walking The Great Wall. The thick fog added to the whole experience.

The fog began to lift and everyone around us starting cheering and rushing to higher vantage points to take pictures.

As the fog rolled out we could see The Wall snaking up the hillside.

Here's me beginning the long, steep climb back to our meeting point.

Stew and me with wall in the background.

Saturday, Summer Palace.

Summer Palace residences.

Temple at the Summer Palace.

Lama Temple. Many people were there praying. Every building held different Buddhas, each one beautiful, amazing and HUGE (no photos allowed inside the buildings.) Monks come from all over the world to study here.

Later in the day, we went to the Pearl Market and tried our hand at shopping/negotiating. Stew got a great deal on a cool watch. I paid too much for a cute bag but it was my first time - good practice for later on.

Tomorrow morning we visit The Forbidden City and Tianneman Square (If I misspelled that, please forgive. It's the wee hourse and don't want to risk waking up Stew to check my book!)

Fly to Guangzhou in the afternoon.

Two days to Helen!

We're here!!!

2007-10-05T09:36:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we've arrived safely in China. We're having some computer issues with our laptop so we're posting from the business center in our hotel in Beijing. That's great (!) but it's in Chinese so we're just winging this. We're hoping to figure out our issues tomorrow and post more info and photos soon.

Visited The Great Wall today! It was amazing, beautiful, foggy and STEEP. Oh, and AMAZING, again. Can't believe we meet Helen in THREE DAYS!

More soon...

Nursery Photos, as promised

2007-10-02T23:37:00.001-05:00

I know, I know...finally the nursery photos!

One more day...

2007-10-02T16:07:00.001-05:00

Stew's outside installing the carseat and I'm doing this. I'm supposed to putting everything we own in Ziplock bags right now, but I'm taking a break. Still planning on getting nursery photos up before we leave (tomorrow at 3:00!). Our friend Fred is driving us and our friend Liz will make sure our car is at the airport when we return on the 19th.

Every person we know has been so kind and so helpful, let us borrow things, given us great advice, taken care of things for us or sent us their very best wishes. We're lucky, we know it and soon Helen will know how lucky she is, too, that she gets to know all ya'll as well.

I know I just said all ya'll but I'm leaving it!

xoxoxoxo