A Home for Zoey Blaszczynski

Another year

2011-02-24T12:28:00.004-05:00

In January we celebrated another year "Gotcha Day" gone by. Where does the time go? Obviously it goes by quickly, it's months and months or even years between my blog posts. With facebook now I post on there so much that I just forget about blogging. I need to get back to doing it more, it really is therapeutic! It is nice to get thoughts out through my fingers. Well, Zoey is becomming a little grown up. She is so stinking smart it astounds us everyday. She can write all her letters and even some words. She is kindof obsessed with writing actually. That's all she wants to do, anywhere we are she has paper and pen or pencil in hand. She is taking gymnastics or as she calls it "de-nastics" and loves it. Vince takes her on Mondays and she loves to come in afterwards and try to re-inact her moves for me which is pretty difficult since we don't have bars or a balance beam in our living room. Madison is in her second semester of 5th grade and in the National Honor society for the second year in a row. We are so proud of her and her grades. She quit ice skating back in the fall and is now doing tumbling. She also loves it. She has finally mastered going down into a back bend, which makes me cringe with pain to watch (especially with all my back problems!), and almost has her walk over down. She runs two miles three times a week with Vince and is running her first 5K in March. Vince got a promotion and began his new position as district manager for his company in January and is enjoying it. I celebrated my 10 year anniversary at my office last week, wow how time flies! All in all life is good and we are very blessed!

Time for an update?

2010-10-16T09:04:00.006-04:00

Well blogger friends did you think I had disappeared? I know how I am not such a devoted blogger anymore, I can't believe it's been a year. I spend more time updating Facebook now than anything else. Well over the last year the girls have grown up so much! Madison finished 4th grade and now is in 5th and celebrated her 10th birthday in May, so she got to get her ears pierced. Zoey turned 3 in June and is smarter than any of us. It's so amazing! She started a new preschool a few weeks ago and it has been really good for her. She is learning sooooo much. We just found out yesterday that Vince is getting a promotion in January and will be a district manager for his company. I am so proud of him! My job is the same, it is good, very busy! In August we got together with all of our travel families so the girls could get together. It is so fun to get to see all our Jiangxi girls together. They are growing up so fast. One of our families is in China right now with their new son. I love getting to check updates on their blog and I think that's why I felt compelled to update ours. We went to Disney in September for Zoey's first trip. We had such an incredible time! My best friend and her family came down for part of the week, which made it even more special. We are busy getting our house ready for the fall season. Next week we are celebrating my sisters' 40th birthday here at our house, so we are trying to spruce up a little bit. I hope that everyone is doing well and I will try to update more often. Zoey is starting gymnastics on Monday so I will try to get some pictures posted of that. I think it is right up her ally.

Cirque De Chine-Pigeon Forge TN Adopted Children from China Reunion

2009-09-04T21:27:00.000-04:00

Obviously I have been so behind (as usual) in blogging. This summer has been extremely busy and now here we are into the schoolyear. Where does the time go? In July the group that we traveled with in China met up in Pigeon Forge, TN. The Cirque de Chine Show performers sent out a notice that they were have a reunion of sorts for families with adopted children from China. One of the members of our group who lives in TN sent the notice out to us and we decided to make it a reunion time of our own. We had such a great time. The theatre had activites set up during the day on Saturday that consisted of Chinese games and crafts, then they served an authentic Chinese food buffet followed by the Cirque de Chine show, which was wonderful. The most incredible part of the weekend though was getting our girls together and watching them interact after this last year and a half. It was amazing to see all of there little personalities and see how they had all changed and become these active, independent little girls. All of them now with families and some with their siblings. It was just great. At the theatre on Saturday a woman approached me and started asking some questions. Come to find out she was from the local paper and Zoey ended up on the front page with one of the other girls baby sister. It was so neat! We had about 20 people approach us and ask me if I had rolled Zoey's hair, she definitely was the ONLY one with curly hair. She is absolutely one of a kind.

These were some of the performers that would let the children have their pictures made with them. They actually did a big group picture on stage after the show, but Zoey pitched a fit so she and Madison didn't make it into that one.

Madison picking up marbles with chopsticks.

These drummers were amazing! They performed several times throughout the show and Zoey would drum right along with them, it was too cute!

Madison's 9th birthday, Zoey's 2nd birthday, and other events.....

2009-06-21T17:01:00.012-04:00

On June 6 Zoey turned 2. Can you believe it? Where has the time gone? Of course I've said that on every single one of Madison's birthdays too and she just turned 9. We just did a family celebration for both of the girls. Madison wanted to go to Alabama Adventure on her birthday, May 23rd, so we went and she took a friend. It poured down rain the whole day (that's why there are no pictures because our camera is not waterproof), but she had fun anyway. For Zoey we went to the park and had a picnic, then came home played in the baby pool and then had cake. For her it was the perfect day, spending it all outside, her favorite place to be. Too bad the heat index now is 105 because it is too hot to go outside unless you have a pool, which we do not.

The week preceeding Zoey's birthday Vince and I went to Maine for a week, just the two of us. My parents kept the girls. It was a well needed and deserved vacation if I do say so myself. We had an amazing time. If you never been to Maine, you must go. It is so beautiful. The people were so nice, the places we stayed were incredible. It was wonderful. I would love to go again or become a snowbird and stay there in the summer when I retire (haha like that will ever happen). We saw 4 lighthouses, Bush's compound, we went sailing, saw some beautiful landscapes and ocean views, and had a terrible rental car experience (don't ever use Dollar). The weather was perfect, no rain, cool temperatures, and lots of outside time that was quiet, peaceful, and relaxing!

Last Sunday, June 14th, my cousin Jacob who has had a lifelong battle with a congenital heart problem passed away at the age of 21. Several of you have been following his journey on his carepage over the last few years. This is his "About Jacob" that I took from his carepage:

"Jacob was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) while in utero in the fall of 1987. After considering our limited options, we decided to fly to Philadelphia, PA and have Jacob delivered at a local hospital and then begin a three staged series of open heart surgeries at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) performed by Dr. William Norwood, who pioneered this series of surgeries.
Jacob came through each stage with minimal complications and enjoyed a "normal" childhood (if you consider regular short-term hospitalizations for caths, check-ups, pacemaker implants, and assorted other related surgeries "normal").
In the late summer of 2004, Jacob was diagnosed with Protein Losing Enteropathy (PLE) which was rapidly weakening his heart. Throughout a fall of treatments and hospitalizations, Jacob's health quickly declined to a point of being placed on the heart transplant list. On December 21, a heart was found and transplanted into Jacob.
Jacob's health progressively improved and he eventually returned to regular school activities and a newly energized social life.
In the fall of 2007, Jacob began to feel weak and it was discovered that his body was rejecting his new heart. Treatments failed to stem the tide and consequently Jacob was placed on the transplant list once more. On November 15, Jacob received his second transplanted heart.
Since that time, he has once again resumed his course work at Shorter College, enjoying the college life and preparing himself for adulthood.
Update (6/19/09): After a short stay in the hospital, Jacob's health deteriorated with apparent rejection. On June 14th, following the beginning of an aggressive treatment, he went into cardiac arrest. After a valiant attempt to save his life, he was pronounced dead around 7:30pm.
On June 18th, his earthly body, with all its scars and infirmities were laid to rest and we celebrated his acquisition of a perfect body in the presence of our Lord."

Anyone who knew Jacob was touched by his incredible joy in life, his joy for life, his love of Christ and faith, and how strong he was. The most saddening part of his passing for me is that I didn't know him as well as I should've. He was my first cousin and many many people knew him better than I did. Please keep his family in your prayers during this time of healing.

For those of you who have mentioned it, I promise I'll try to update more regularly! Hope everyone is having a great summer!

Madison's Dance Recital

2009-05-22T16:39:00.008-04:00

Last Saturday was Madison's Dance Recital. This is her third year to dance and her second year of clogging. All of the girls in her class did a great job, well, all of the kids in the recital did. The studio she takes at is a wonderful place and Madison has just loved it. Zoey can't wait until she can get up there and boogie too. I think she'll be doing backflips and handsprings though. During the video Madison is the third from the right, if you can tell.

I obviously didn't get up very close to video their performance and you can hear my redneck self screaming for her, but I'm the mom I'm supposed to!

I can't believe she is about to be in the fourth grade! Where have the last nine years gone?

Easter 2009

2009-04-14T09:42:00.005-04:00

He Has Risen, Alleluja Alleluja

The Easter Bunny brought some fun things to play with.

My sweet bunnies!

Zoey has discovered praying and randomly will bow her head which is so precious so here she is again, so everyone decided to join in on Zoey's prayer time.

What beautiful girls if I do say so myself!

Zoey decided it was time to pray in the parking lot.

Sweet sisters second Easter together. God is so good!

My little angels!

My sweetie of almost 12 years of marriage.

Zoey looks real thrilled to being photographed after church. Thanks Warren for taking our picture!

We spent Easter afternoon with Vince's family and also celebrated our nephew's 4th birthday. I should be ashamed of myself because I did not take one picture. We had a great time and Joel really enjoyed his presents, I think some of the adults did too.

This video speaks for itself!

This is for you Pepaw

2009-03-01T20:29:00.005-05:00

(Zoey has on Vince's socks over her pants!)

My grandpa made this rocking horse for Zoey. It was waiting at our house when we got home from China and has been sitting in Zoey's room. We have tried several times to get her to ride it and she would just sit there. Well during the last week she has discovered it and how much fun it can be. All she wants to do is ride the "horsey". So Pepaw this video is for you and thank you for the "horsey" she absolutely loves it!

From Hail to .........Snow?

2009-03-01T20:02:00.009-05:00

If you live in Alabama or know anyone that does you probably know that in the fall and spring our weather is crazy. Well this winter has been too, we don't get just a month of freezing cold, we get a day of freezing cold and then a warm day and then another cold day, then warm and so on. This few pictures sum our weather pattern up really well. Last week on Tuesday, I took these pictures of the hail on our back deck. We were under tornado warnings twice last week, with thunderstorms and hail both days as well. This small hail sounded like bullets hitting the windows of the house.After a day of rain and storms on Friday night into Saturday, we woke up Sunday morning March 1st to this. This was Zoey's first time in the snow (aside from her time in China and we didn't let her play in it then). She didn't know what to think at first, but then loved it! She ate some and then tried to share some with us. When I made her go in to get warm you would have thought I stole her ice cream cone, she was devastated. I did let her go back out for a little while, but she was a popcicle. This is our snowman, sadly he can't eat, speak, hear, see, feel, or smell because our plan was to finish him after lunch, but he fell over and died before we got back outside.Of course the snow was completely gone by 3:00 in the afternoon, but it was really fun while it lasted!

Fun at the Circus and Happy Chinese New Year!

2009-02-01T15:15:00.007-05:00

Well, as usual I am behind in my posting. The last weekend in January me, Madison, Lee, Suzanna, Emily, and Michela all went to the circus. I hadn't been in years and Suzanna had never been before. We had a really good time and the girls got to meet some of the circus stars before the show started which they loved (sorry the pictures are so small). The show hasn't changed that much, but some things are different. There was no trapeeze, instead there were alot of acrobats on different swinging objects and the clowns were scary. They did alot of magic tricks. The next morning we went to a Chinese festival at Boutwell Auditorium to celebrate Chinese New Year. We got to watch the Dragon Dance and follow in a parade of children. We also got to watch some Chinese dance, eat Chinese food, and look at different items from China. There was also someone there from Ed's Pet World with these snakes. We were going to take my picture with one when he put them both around my neck. Next thing I know that are getting tangled in my hair! The girls, especially Madison, was so grossed out. Anyway it was a really fun and interesting day!

GOTCHA DAY ANNIVERSARY!!!!!!!

2009-01-21T19:45:00.012-05:00

I can't believe it, one year ago today (well I am writing this on Wednesday, but won't post it until Thursday the 22nd which is our anniversary) we flew into Nanchang, checked into the hotel and went to get our precious angel, Zoey Bo Cheng. We were so jet lagged I don't think it actually sank in that she would be in our arms so soon until we were in the room trying to figure out which baby was ours. They were all so bundled up we couldn't tell until they called her name. She was so expressionless, so lost looking. It makes me so sad to think about it, but so happy because it took her no time to attach to all of us and she is absolutely the most perfect fit in our family. The time has flown by, meaning I can't believe all the things she is doing now, just like any other toddler she is quickly getting into the two's! She is constantly CLIMBING something or telling us "NO NO NO NO". She is definitely going to be a gymnist or something! It seems like she has always been with us, it's really hard to imagine our lives without her. When I see her referral picture or the pictures that the orphanage gave us it seems so surreal. I can't imagine my little rambunctious girl in the orphanage. Once she got her taste of freedom she never looked back and I mean that in every way. We have been and continue to be so blessed by having our daughters in our lives. We are completely amazed by Zoey's incredible energy, personality, and the sunshine she brings to our house. She is so smart we are constantly in awe of her. I kept trying to get video of her singing her ABC's, pointing to her body parts, and talking to her baby. All of these things are precious and I wanted to share them, but as soon as I get out the camera she is trying to take it from me to see herself on it, so that didn't exactly work. Our social worker came on Wednesday afternoon the 21st and was cracking up at Zoey the whole time she was here. She was amazed at how Zoey says words but in between words you can kind of understand she has this whole other language that she says. And while she is saying it she looks at you like you should know what she is talking about. It's so funny. God is so awesome. Just to see Zoey and how far she has come in the last year and how incredibly much our lives have changed, it's just amazing. We have been truly blessed by God to have Zoey and Madison. 2008 was a wonderful year for our family. We've had a first Easter, first birthday, first Halloween, and first Christmas and we look forward to this year in 2009 for what is in store for us all. Zoey will be 2, Madison will be 9, and Vince and I hit the big 35! Next month my grandparents will be celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary, how incredible is that? I only pray that God will grant Vince and me such a long and wonderful marriage, and that one day Zoey and Madison's children will be celebrating with us! May God bless all of our friends, family, and all the children in the world waiting for their forever family. May God grant them peace and hope for the future. Happy 1 year anniversary to all of our travel group families and their daughters from China and here's hoping to see you all soon at a reunion!

Now that's a typical family picture when you have children!

Just a few pics of ...ZOEY'S FIRST OFFICIAL CHRISTMAS!

2009-01-06T20:09:00.005-05:00

Had to take at least one tub picture and the Santa hat was an added bonus!
We couldn't get through Christmas with out our elf, Dolly!

Christmas Mass with my girls!

So precious!

Our one family shot, I think.

Ready for the snow?

Just waking up for Santa!

Yeah, a ice skating bag with wheels, thanks Santa!

Zoey needs a little help.

OOOOHHHH, she was soooooo excited!

What beautiful cousins!

Sweet sisters!

And Santa's helpers.

Zoey loves to "play" the Wii!

A year anniversary!

2008-12-08T10:18:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, if you can believe, was the anniversary of the day that we first saw our sweet Zoey's little face, the one year anniversary of our referral date. I can believe it's been that long because I don't feel like she hasn't ever been with us. We had some friends over for the AL/AU game and Christine was looking at one of our photo albums. The pictures that the orphanage gave us of Zoey that they had put in a little album for us were in there and it is kind of surreal looking at them. It's just like a biological child, you can't remember your life without them almost. I can't believe that it is her in those pictures in ten layers of clothing sitting in the dirt outside the Poyang SWI. And coming back to reality that it is her makes me tear up everytime. So we celebrate our little girl and how far she has come since that day, (how far they ALL have come)

that we sat at our computers at work and saw her picture for the first time and cried because we couldn't wait to hold her in our arms. Now she is ours completely and always will be. What an amazing journey for her and us!

Fun with Nana

2008-11-27T09:49:00.011-05:00

My mom has been staying with us since I had surgery last Thursday which has been awesome, but hard at the same time. Everyone says I am supposed to relax, but that is kind of hard when your baby is screaming and holding onto your leg because you can't pick her up or tuck her in. Next week will be tough too because I am going back to work Monday, which means she goes back to daycare, and I still can bend over or pick up anything over 10 lbs. In some ways I think it's been good for Zoey though because she is VERY attached to me and she has been spending more time with Vince too which has been good for their attachment. He has been putting her to bed and she goes right to sleep. I think when I am back to my old self it will help me out in some of life's daily activities that they are more attached. Your really don't realize how much you stoop and bend at the waiste on a daily basis, not doing that has been REALLY hard!

Well anyway, not only has my mom been taking care of Zoey because like I said I can't pick her up or anything, but she also has knack of getting your house in order. She has organized my kitchen, cleaned out Madison's room, redecorated Madison's room (that's her Christmas present from my parents) and is cooking Thanksgiving dinner. Mom has gotten some precious pictures of her. That precious angel face just makes me melt. She is a little stinker too, always trying to sneak up the stairs. And the really scary thing is that she has made all the way to the top twice and we didn't even know it until she came walking into the room upstairs, once I was up there the other time Vince was.She is trying to put on her socks and shoes herself now and gets so frustrated when she can't get them on. Zoey LOVES this little house toy. She will play with it the longest that she has ever played with any other toy really. And she really likes it when someone else will crawl in and out of the door with her. (Jan, obviously the whole family has gotten to enjoy this wonderful toy you gave us) It's the highlight in our den! Zoey didn't like it that Vince was walking around with it on like he was stuck in it, but we thought it was hysterical!

Yesterday afternoon Mom and Zoey were playing outside in Zoey's playhouse. Vince got this playhouse at a yard sale in our neighborhood about 2 months ago for just a few dollars and Zoey LOVES IT!!!!! I am in love with my moms camera. I was playing with it and got some cute pictures while they were playing and a little video. I just love to hear her laugh!

Update for last two months....

2008-11-22T10:01:00.007-05:00

I feel like such a slacker when I check all my blogger friends and see that they update their blogs like everyday. I just don't see how you do it. I have to wait until I have back surgery and am stuck in the house not doing anything before I can work on mine.

Well lets see, since my last post several things have passed. Everyone has had their flu shots and had a cold and had a stomach virus. It's just that time of year I guess. Zoey and Madison are both doing great. Zoey has started saying a little more. She actually said, "bye" the other day and didn't just wave. I was so excited. Madison got straight A's on her report card and on her progress report this week. Zoey has been through a bout with a horrible yeast infection of all things. And I don't know about all my other China doll parents babies, but Zoey has really bad eczema all over and I have been having to use special lotion to help keep it under control.

The second weekend in October one of the family's we traveled with in China came to Birmingham to visit some of their friends and we were able to meet up for a picnic and playtime. It was so much fun to watch these girls in action. They are from the same orphanage and as Elyza's mom says, "they are Poyang Sisters". We had a really great time catching up and we live just a few hours from each other which is so great. While we were having our mini-reunion there was another group from the Birmingham area having a reunion too. Their children were special needs, but it was so random that we were all at the same park on the same day. We took turns taking each others pictures and exchanging email addresses to we could try to get together.

Zoey just after a bath. Check out the fro on this girl! I just love it!

Zoey LOVES her sister "DAAA" as she calls Madison.

Fun Reunion, hopefully the first of many.

Elyza taking on the slide herself. What a big girl!

The Poyang Sisters, Zoey and Elyza!

During these past two months we also had Halloween. Zoey's Nana bought her this precious pumpkin outfit so I put her in it for daycare that Friday.

With her beachball belly, she fit the outfit perfectly and was definitely the cutest pumpkin I ever saw! On Halloween afternoon they have Trick-or-Treating on Main Street where we live. All the businesses give out candy to the kids. We decided to do that in the afternoon. Of course Zoey didn't quite get the concept, she just knew that people were giving her something and had to stop every foot to take inventory of her bucket. My friend gave us the adorable hand me down bumble bee outfit and then Madison kind of invented her own outfit. I told her she looked like Morticia Adams but she didn't have any clue who that was. After about two hours of getting too much candy for an army we went home. Zoey and Vince gave out candy and me, Madison, Neely, and Hope went to see HSM 3. If you haven't seen it and you liked the other two HSM movies on Disney Channel you should see the final one. It was cute!

Saturday November 1st we had a costume party fundraiser at our church. It was a 70's theme party. Vince and I dressed as matching hippies. Lee and Tyler were disco dancers. We had such a great time. It was really fun wear these costumes and to see everyone at church dressed up too. Several people didn't know who we were and some others who wanted their pictures made with us. Of course Vince looked so helarious with the black hair and mustache I barely recognized him either. One of the first weeks of November, Madison had a school Thanksgiving program at school. She had been picked for a speaking part and also to hold a cut out turkey for one of the songs. She did such a great job, well all of the kids did. Their music teacher, Ms. Henderson, does a really great job with the kids. They are all very animated during their part and the programs she chooses for the kids to do are the perfect length and have some really cute songs in them. We are very proud of all the kids in the program, but especially our Madison!

Over the last year I have had 7 epideral blocks in my back. I have had problems on/off with my lumber 4 and 5 since Madison was born and have been able to see the chiropractor and other things to keep on going, but over the last 6 months it has gotten a lot worse. At the beginning of October Vince and I went to my neurosurgeon and after debating it decided that I should have surgery. So Thursday November 20 (day before yesterday) I did. I had immediate relief in my left leg and hip. I have just been amazed. Of course now I am having to get over the surgical aspect of it but am doing really well. This is not to say that I won't have more problems in the future because I do have other disk issues, but hopefully I won't have that nerve pain that I have been fighting. Thanks to all my family and friends that have been so sweet and helpful.

Madison has been skating her little booty off getting ready for the Pelham Skate School's annual Christmas Ice Show. She is on a synchronized skating team this year and we are so proud of her. These kids are just incredible (of course we think so). If any of you are interested in coming the show is on Friday December 5 and Saturday the 6th.

Adoption Clinic Check-up

2008-10-09T10:33:00.004-04:00

Yesterday Zoey had her 6 month follow up at the adoption clinic at Children's South. It was supposed to be in August but I had to reschedule. Everything went great. She is still 28 pounds and was I think 31 inches tall. She is right on target for all of her developmental milestones and even a little ahead on some. The main thing they want us to work on with her now is her speech. She is a little behind there, although her comprehension is excellent. We now just have to work on getting her to say more words. They gave us some good ideas to start trying including some signing with her. We then met with the pediatrician who looked her over and probed her ears and all that good stuff that makes baby's scream! We have been concerned since she had pneumonia that she might be asthmatic (sp?) and the pediatrician agreed with us from the symptoms we talked about with her. She gave us the name of a specialist to call so we could find out for sure. She coughs alot, mainly at night, which we figured at first was her teething. Then when she ended up with pneumonia we thought, well this might not be just teething. Even sometimes on the weekends I have been able to feel her wheezing. The pediatrician told us that it was fine to use her inhaler at night before bed to help with her coughing and any other time we felt she was having trouble. That made me feel better, I have used it a few times, but was scared her body would become dependent on it, which she said was not the case. We go back in April for her one year evaluation. So to sum it up everything went very well and Zoey has not skipped a beat in her development. It is just so amazing what love has done for this little angel, she keeps us falling in love with her more and more everyday. What a blessing from God to have two beautiful, amazing, loveable, healthy, happy girls!

A Conference At The Beach....... YAHOOO!

2008-10-06T22:07:00.011-04:00

In September, I had a conference at the Hilton at Sandestin, so the whole family tagged along for a fun beach trip while I sat in classes most of the day. Poor me!We had a really great time, however, it was during Hurricane Ike and the beach was closed most of the time while we were there. It was unbelievably windy. I can't imagine what it would've been like where the hurricane actually was because we were about to blow away, or at least Zoey was. Anyway, Madison and Zoey had a ball playing in the pools. There were three, two outside and one inside. Zoey also had a great time playing peek-a-boo with the curtains. We got some funny pictures of her, like this one where she has fixed her own hair. Doesn't she look like Betty Rubble from the Flintstones? Vince and I have been working out, can you tell? Betcha didn't know he played the ukulele either. We couldn't resist sitting in the gigantic chair, it was really interesting to see me getting up there! Madison had fun on this trampoline thing, but said the straps were killing her legs. We were just proud of her for trying it, she's usually not very brave when it comes to things like this. We got scared for a few minutes because we couldn't find Zoey, well, here she was hiding in this sign giggling watching Madison jump.Isn't she just a cutie patootie!

We went out for dinner a few times and walked around at Baytown Wharf where we took several of these pictures. It was great, we could shop, eat, and just have fun watching our girls! One night they had a band playing and kids were playing some plastic instruments on stage with them. These videos are of Zoey and Madison that night. They are a little long, but you can skip through and see her dancing, it's too cute!

We had a really great time, sometimes you just really need to get away from reality. And for us going to the beach always does the trick, it's just not ever long enough!

Prayer request for family in China

2008-09-18T21:29:00.002-04:00

A family in the process of adopting a special needs daughter in China has run into some complications where the child has ended up in the hospital while they are in China. The adoption process has not been completed. Please keep this family in your prayers! Their blogspot is http://roomforatleastonemore.blogspot.com
Amanda

Smart 1 year old!

2008-09-06T16:29:00.003-04:00

I had to post this video of Zoey eating lasagna. No, she did not even come close to eating the whole plate that is in front of her, I just had so much left so I heated it all up. Anyway, I was super proud of her for using her fork, you have to see. And please ignore my stupid voice on the video!

Nice Hair!

2008-09-06T16:13:00.003-04:00

Is that Cinderella?

Or Snow White?
Belle?
Tinkerbell?
Madison got out her old Disney Princess wigs the other day and we cracked up at these goofball girls in these fabulous hair do's! I think Zoey looks great as a blond, don't you?

ARE YOU READY........

2008-09-06T16:03:00.003-04:00

FOR SOME FOOTBALL?

ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!!

Getting better

2008-08-25T12:20:00.002-04:00

Thanks to all you guys for your sweet words about Zoey. She is doing much better and is not fighting the inhaler anymore, yipee! Now for those of you who know our family really well, you know that nothing is every easy going. We probably have the worst luck in the history of the world, so here goes. I have shingles. Yeah! Let me tell you, it's not fun and I don't think it will ever go away. I had always heard from patients (that are over 70) that it was very painful, etc. Well they weren't kidding. It feels like someone kicked me really hard. I thought I had a bite and when it didn't get better after a few days and other spots developed I went to my doctor Friday, one look and she said, "Shingles". I was like you are joking me! Anyway I hope you all had a great weekend and aren't floating away from Fay and the rain she is bringing us. We needed it!

My Best Friend's New Baby Boy

2008-08-21T18:47:00.006-04:00

Introducing: Luke Richard Morris

I just love baby feet!!!!

Last weekend Madison and I took a girls trip to Brentwood, TN to see my best friend Tricia and her family. They just had their second baby, a little boy, Luke. We had a great time just getting to catch up. Madison loved getting to hold the baby and did a really good job. Tricia and Jon live in a beautiful house and I just had to post pictures of this fabulous room that Madison and I got to stay in. Madison said she felt like we were stars sleeping in this bed. Tricia and Jon's little girl is Ella, will be three in December and she is such a beautiful little girl and so sweet. I sat for about 5 minutes while Luke slept trying to get this smiling picture. It's so sweet when babies make such precious faces when they sleep! We had really great visit!

My Brother's 10 Year Reunion-Geez I'm Old

2008-08-21T18:27:00.007-04:00

My whole family actually together for a picture moment!
Several weeks ago my brother Joseph and his wife Summer came to Huntsville for his 10 year high school reunion. My brother is in the Coast Guard and they live in Valdez, Alaska, so needless to say we don't get to see them very often. My dad and Joseph are forever goofballs!

The last time we saw them was around Thanksgiving last year so they hadn't even seen Zoey before. We all went up to my parents for the weekend so we could get to spend some time with them. Zoey took to them really well. She is still timid around strangers, but took to Summer first and was taking her toys and even drinking her bottle next to her. By the end of the weekend she was doing the same with Joseph too. It was a really fun weekend for all of us. Madison LOVES her Aunt Lee and cousins!

Saturday afternoon we drove over to Guntersville to eat lunch at Wentzels (I think that's how you spell it), which was delicious! It's an oyster house and seafood restaurant that originated in Mobile I think and Joseph and Summer used to live in Mobile before moving to Valdez. It's right on the water, so you can walk down to the pier. Saturday night was the formal event for his reunion so we all took these great pictures of them. Me and Lee love to see our "little brother" in his dress uniform. He's so handsome! And Summer is so beautiful!

Aren't they sweet!

Me and my sweet babies!

Cousins are great to have around to keep me out of trouble! We always have fun when we are all together. We miss Joseph and Summer all the time. Next year they will be getting transferred somewhere else, we are hoping somewhere tropical! The weekend after that I had to go to a conference in New Orleans and Vince was cleaning house while I was gone. He had put the dog out on the deck and Zoey decided to go out and join her. That's when Vince took these cute pictures of them. Zoey loves Gow (Scout) as she calls her. It's so sweet! This funny picture is from when we were trying to capture a family picture of ourselves and Zoey gave us the "one eye"! I had to post it because she looks to hilarious!

My sick baby....

2008-08-21T09:34:00.002-04:00

So Zoey has had a cold (I thought) for over a week. I had the pediatrician call in some cough syrup last week to help her to sleep, but she is in daycare and teething. Well over the last two days she has coughed so hard that she has thrown up so I decided yesterday it was time to go to the doctor. Well guess what, she has pneumonia. I felt so awful when the doctor told me that after her chest xray, but she said since she hasn't run any fever or acted like she felt bad that most people wouldn't have brought the child in either. Well she has an albuterol inhaler (which is soooo fun to try to do with her) and antibiotics for the sinus infection. Anyway, just keep her in your prayers for a fast recovery. We go back in two weeks for a repeat chest x-ray. She slept so much better last night after using the inhaler, so I think she will feel much better soon.

Another family update

2008-08-11T15:18:00.004-04:00

I am so behind on blogging it's not even funny. I even had to look and see the date of when I last posted. In the last few weeks there hasn't been a whole lot of new and exciting things going on. I have tons of pictures to post and will try my best to do that this week. Madison started school last Thursday and it looks like it is going to be a great school year. Thanks to all of you who have kept her in your prayers. So far we are off to a great start. Her teacher is AWESOME, her room looks like a boutique, too cute for words! We've already had a project to do, which was helpful for me too because I learned how to burn a CD of pictures, so I finally put my China pictures on a CD, YEA ME! Zoey is babbling more and running, yes running. She makes some animal sounds (not quite the right ones but she's trying) and it's too cute. She is so fun, but also has her moments. She has to stay on her sleep schedule or you better watch out because she will be ill! I had to go to a conference a few weeks ago and Vince kept the girls for two nights by himself and of course did great. He had no problems whatsoever, which I knew he wouldn't. The weekend before last we went to Huntsville to visit my parents and to see my brother and sister-in-law who had flown in from Alaska for a week. We only get to see them about once a year so they haven't gotten to see Zoey. We had such a great time getting to visit and she had fun with them too. Joseph's 10 year high school reunion was last weekend so they had a really great time getting to visit with his old friends too. Friday night we gathered around the TV to watch the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. How amazing! I don't if you all watched it, but if not it was breathtaking! It was so interesting to watch because of all the cultural things that China included, we loved watching it and are hoping to keep it for Zoey in the future. It was kind of weird to me that I was just as excited when the Chinese came into the stadium as I was when the USA made their entrance. I guess I should've expected it as China will always have a place in my heart now. Madison even said that she wished we could adopt the boy that came in with Yao Ming. It was really great to watch. This past weekend Vince and I celebrated our 11 wedding anniversary on August 9. We went with some friends to see Journey in concert at the amphitheater, which was great. We had just as much fun people watching as listening to the concert. It had been a long time since we had been to a concert, it was really fun! Madison and I are going to Nashville this weekend to see my friend Tricia and her new baby, Luke. I can't wait! I always look forward to seeing her and getting to see the baby is a bonus! Hope everyone is having a great start to the school year. I can't believe summer vacation is already over. I'll try to get all these new pictures posted soon!

Zoo fun

2008-07-20T12:07:00.004-04:00

About two months ago we spent a fun day at the zoo, I'm such a slacker that I am just now getting this posted. Anyway we all had a great time. Vince and Madison rode a camel and Zoey and Madison had a ball playing in the water.

Family update

2008-07-17T13:16:00.004-04:00

I have so many pictures to post, some even a month old, but can't seem to find the time to spend uploading them to my blog. I thought I would just post a little update while on my lunch hour at work. Two weeks ago Madison had some minor oral surgery to have her frenum (sp?) removed, that's the muscle that connects your upper lip to your gum. Her's was way to large and separating her front teeth. She did amazing for a little girl with lots of anxiety. Last week she spent the week at my mom's with her cousins for Music Camp at FBC Huntsville. They go every summer since starting school and always have such a blast spending a week with Nana and Grandaddy. Their program was on Sunday night and was absolutely precious. Madison and Suzanna both had speaking parts in their program about seasons and Emily precious face sparkled as her group performed a story about Mary and Martha. Zoey is growing like a week and is a small 26lbs at 13 months old. She is busy as a bee, into absolutely everything ( I mean we have to really watch the toilet lids to make sure they are shut). We bought her first pair of Stride Rite white leather high tops last weekend and she measured a 4 1/2 wide, bless those little chunky feet. She has become VERY attached to her blanky and wants to carry it everywhere, which is really funny to us because as embarassing as it is to admit on my blog, I still have my blanky. Yes, almost 34 years old and I still have it. So she has inherited something from her mother, haha. She is getting more and more vocal, saying a few understandable things like MaMa, DaDa, Baba (bottle), Daa (Madison) and has made up her own little signs like clapping to answer "yes". She loves Elmo and Barney, but NOT when they are in a stuffed form, only on TV. She is not to keen on dolls, ESPECIALLY that talk or sing (that terrifies her), or stuffed animals. She is becoming more and more snuggly with us. She follows Madison EVERYWHERE she can and always wants to know where she is, even yelling "Daaaa" if she thinks she is upstairs. It's just amazing to see how far we've come since January. God is truly so good! Please keep my grandmother in your prayers. She had a total shoulder replacement on Monday and is doing really well, but the physical therapy is going to be extremely hard and painful. The way that she is though she won't ever complain about it, she'll just do it. My friend Tricia that is in the post below, had her baby yesterday. At 11:34 they welcomed Luke Richard Morris into the world, 8lbs, 19 inches long. I can't wait to see him! Congratulations to Tricia, Jon, and big sister Ella! My brother Joseph and his wife Summer are coming in from Alaska on June 30th. His 10 year high school reunion is that weekend, so we are going to Huntsville to visit. They haven't gotten to see Zoey yet, I am so excited to get to see them. They don't exactly get to come to Alabama that much being as they live in Valdez, Alaska. School starts on August 7th, I can't believe I am about to have a 3rd grader. Vince and I will celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary on August 9th and then I will be 34 in September. Time flies by doesn't it! I'll try to get some new picture posted soon if I can get some time to post them, we've been so busy lately. Hope everyone is having a great summer!

Summer Fun #2

2008-07-07T12:05:00.003-04:00

These are some cute pictures of Madison and her cousins Emily and Suzanna, at the bowling alley one day last week. They have had a great time getting to see each other almost everyday this summer. Check out the form on those girls! Lee and I are so glad that they are so close! I have to say that it is really sad that my 8 year old can bowl a better game than me. I am terrible, unless I am on the Wii. I rock at bowling on that thing!

Several weeks ago I met my two best girlfriends in Huntsville for a sleepover - catch up night. On the left is my friend Alison, who lives in Atlanta and is a newlywed! Congratulations to her and Trey! And on the right is my friend Tricia, who lives in Nashville and is expecting her second baby on the 22nd of July. We have been friends since the 6th grade and have remained close all these years.

My Grandma's Birthday

2008-07-07T12:02:00.005-04:00

The last two summer's around the 4th of July my grandparents have rented a house on Guntersville Lake and had us over for a day of fun and fishing.

Look at those cute beach babes!

Zoey got to try out wearing shoes, literally walking in them for one of the first times. She did pretty good after realizing that she couldn't shake them off her feet, but still is not a huge fan of them!

My Grandmother's birthday is July 1st so it's really a birthday celebration.

Me and the girls drove over on Saturday the 28th of June, Vince was sick so he missed out on the fun. Lee, Tyler, and their girls, my parents, and my great aunt and uncle were all there too.

I think all the girls caught at least one small fish and got in the lake at some point.

Several enjoyed a nice round of horseshoes and I tried to play ball with Zoey.

She wasn't too interested in giving it back!

I have to say my navigating of the dingy was not so great, that's a job for "Uncle Vince/Daddy" and since he wasn't there I gave it my best shot, but was inevitably told that I wasn't good at it and no fun.

Uncle Tyler did a much better job when he and Emily went out.

Madison and Suzanna stuck with just swimming.

We ate too much, just visited with each other and enjoyed the wonderful day at the lake!

Weekend with family

2008-06-16T16:37:00.008-04:00

We traveled to Huntsville this past weekend to visit with my parents and re-celebrate Zoey's birthday and Father's Day. We had a great time. I had to share these precious pictures that my sister and mom took of Zoey eating her cupcake. She didn't hesitate at all this time to dig into that yummy icing! She was not shy about shoving the cupcake in and enjoying every bite of it!Again we had to opt for the sink bath and even put her in ,in her clothes, which helped to wash the icing out of that too. We ate way too much, although it was very delicious- fried catfish, hushpuppies, corn, fried okra, cornbread (all of this was not at the same meal although I probably could if it was in front of me). Saturday my sister Lee and two of my nieces Emily and Suzanna, came up for the day. We ran some errands around town and then that afternoon Vince helped them shoot off Mentos rockets. Have any of you heard of this? It's like an episode of Myth Busters. If you mix Mento's Candy and Diet Soda, it will propel a rocket up in the air. You can buy it in a kit, my mom had bought them for the girls. It was really cool. Saturday night Vince, Madison and I went to see Indiana Jones for Vince's Father's Day gift. We had a great time actually getting to go to a movie and we really enjoyed it. Sunday morning we got up and went to church with my parents to show off the girls. All mom and dad's friends enjoyed getting to see them, it's been a while since we've been up there for the whole weekend and the first time since bringing Zoey home. It was a wonderful relaxing weekend. Happy Father's Day to all you dad's out there. I hope you had a great day!

Birthday Pics

2008-06-08T11:55:00.008-04:00

Here are some pictures from Zoey's birthday and birthday party. We put this princess hat on her the morning of her birthday. She wore it all day, even at daycare if 0ne of the other children pulled it off she would walk over to one of the teachers with it in her hands for them to put it back on her. It was hysterical, she thought she was queen for a day, which she was of course (everyday actually).
She had yummy homemade Lasagna for dinner (one of her favorites). Of course she got as much in her hair and on her face as she got in her mouth. We had to hose her off in the sink! Scout enjoyed Zoey's birthday dinner too!
We've decide this is the bath of choice from now on, it was much easier and she enjoyed it!

Saturday was her birthday party and our cookout. Well, as we all know who live in the south, it has gotten entirely too HOT too quick this summer. It's not supposed to be 95 until late July or August. Our cookout became a cook the food out and eat it in. It was so hot that by the time everyone left our house our air was set on 68 degrees and it was 78 degrees in the house. Of course it was like 94 outside. But we had a great time. Lots of friends and family came to wish Zoey Happy Birthday. She really enjoyed her cake after she finally tasted it. She cried at first, but then we cut her a piece and she went to town. Again she had to hit the bath. She ended up with a chocolate beard and cake in every roll in her tummy. There was a chocolate layer on the bottom of the tub when we got her out, but at least the cake was enjoyed. Madison decorated it after she and Vince made it.

After bathtime, we headed outside to blow bubbles. Zoey loved chasing them around and visiting with her friend Tatum, who has the same birthday. They are so cute together. I'll post some pics from Tatums' precious party too.

Even though we said "No Gifts", Zoey made out like a bandit. Her favorite things are her drum set that her Aunt Lee, Uncle Tyler, and cousins gave her in honor of her Grandaddy (he loves to give the noisiest gift possible). She loves beating on that drum and wasted no time figuring it out either. She also loves her keyboard and with microphone that the Cantwells gave her. She is helarious with that microphone. She thinks it is so funny to hear herself, of course she has had to fight her big sister for it even though Madison has a real microphone and amp. Our precious friends the Osborn's made a donation to our adoption agency in her name, which really meant a lot to us! Obviously we all had a great day and hope to be able to get together with all of our friends more often. It was so great to get to see all their children as well, they grow up so incredibly fast!

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY ZOEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-06-06T12:51:00.002-04:00

Today our little China Princess is 1 year old! I can't believe we've been home that long. To think of how much she has changed and how much her life has changed in this past year is unbelievable. Stay tuned for some precious pics of our Zoey on her birthday!

Fun Summer Days With Cousins!

2008-06-06T12:39:00.006-04:00

This is a quick pic from Madison's dance recital. Sadly, I don't have it on video. A friend tried to email it and I couldn't get it to work. She did an amazing job. This was her first year to clog and their performance was fantastic. Her teacher, Mrs. Alice, was awesome!

Madison is spending her summer days with her aunt, uncle, and cousins. They are really having a great time and doing all kinds of fun things. Yesterday (Thursday June 5), they went downtown to the art museum and had a "Pete's Famous Hot Dogs" picnic at Linn Park. These are some fun pictures from that day. I am so thankful that she is getting to grow up with these "sisters" as we call them because they are so close. Lee and I always said when we grew up that we were going to live next door to each other and have babies at the same time. Well, we live 12 miles apart and Madison is 8, Emily is 9 and Suzanna is 7, and Michela is old enough to babysit, so we have done pretty good.Michela, my 13 year old neice, has a picture hanging in the art museum right now, which we think is so awesome. Her art teacher took it to a show and was then was asked to hang it in the art museum for a show this summer. How cool is that and it is an amazing picture! If you are downtown be sure and go check it out!

Decatur for the weekend

2008-05-27T21:38:00.009-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADISON!
Memorial Day Weekend we went to Decatur with our friends the Bosworth's for the Alabama Jubilee at Point Mallard. Pats brother, Jake, lives right by there so we got to bike from his house over to the festival. We left on Friday, Madison's birthday, and started the weekend with Zoey screaming almost the whole way up there, but then got to have some Steak-n-Shake for dinner!!! Saturday morning we got up very early to see the hot air balloons take off. We went out into the middle of the field and got a terrific perspective of all the balloons. They were literally blowing up and taking off all around us. It was incredible.

It was unreal to have such a great view of all this enormous balloons. We biked around the field for a while and then went back to Jakes' for a big breakfast buffet and some of his neighbors' house. Zoey took a nap so I hung out at the house with her. Aren't we cute Energizer Bunnies!

When Zoey woke up us girls went back to over to the festival for some lunch and to the craft show where we got some unique jewelry and things and I ran into my office manager and her husband (small world). This is the "Real" Energizer Bunny!!!!!

The boys went to the antique car show and went biking around. Later that afternoon the kids went ice skating while Zoey napped again. For dinner Jakes' neighbors had a big cookout and then we went back over to Point Mallard for the balloon glow that night which was so pretty.It was a long, but very fun day! Check out that beachball belly!

Sunday morning we got up early again to see the balloons come in. They take off from a different location and then fly in to Point Mallard. They have a contest to win a new car. Each balloon crew has a sandbag that they drop from their balloon. On the ground there is a big square with a pole in the middle. Whoever drops closest to the pole wins the car. I don't know who won, but while we were their the 'Curves' balloon got the closest I think. After that we had a big breakfast at IHOP and then went on a bike ride down by the Tennessee River, which was gorgeous. We then rode through a park, where the kids played a little, and then back to Jake's to load up and head home. It was a great, funfilled weekend.

Madison's High School Musical Birthday!

2008-05-27T20:27:00.004-04:00

Sunday afternoon, May 18th, we celebrated Madison's 8th birthday (which was actually the 23rd). I can't believe that my baby is 8 years old! She had decide that she wanted to have a High School Musical party and have several friends come over to watch the movies and sing/dance along. Vince realized several months ago that High School Musical The Ice Tour was coming and bought several tickets. So we decided to have her friends come over and then surprise them all by taking them to HSM The Ice Tour. I called the parents before hand and let them know what our plan was and to get their OK. Madison's friends and cousins came over around noon and danced a little as you can see from this precious video!

We then told her we were going to go ahead and have cake first.

Once they had pretty much finished with cake we gave Madison an envelope to open and the tickets were inside. At first she was like, "HSM on ice, oh good, when are we going?" And then we said "Now this is your party lets ALL get in the car".

You could've heard the screams from Trussville.

They were all so excited.

We had gone to see it last year in Nashville and we all loved it so much that we wanted to go again. The girls had a great time and Madison's face was priceless!
Two of Madison's cousins, her 4 closest friends, Vince and me, Aunt Lee, and Miss Hope all got to share in this wonderful birthday celebration that hopefully she'll always remember!

Zoey Walking

2008-05-18T18:44:00.005-04:00

As sad as it is, it has taken me this long to figure out how to load video onto my blog. And what's really sad is that it is not that hard! Zoey gets a little interested in Elmo during this fabulous example of videographer experience (haha). Hope you all enjoy this and I'll work on posting some other videos!

Happy Mother's Day to Me!

2008-05-14T10:51:00.003-04:00

I'll have to post some pictures later but for Mother's Day this year I got a little one walking, yes I said WALKING (I also got two new set of sheets, yipee, I love new sheets). Watch out everyone because here comes trouble! Zoey is just so amazing to watch, she is so funny. We just laugh at her. She's like the Energizer Bunny, she is nonstop. Last night Madison was running around and Zoey was chasing her, you've never heard a more precious sound than that little laugh. She was hysterically laughing about chasing her sister. She also has started eating solid food and we haven't found anything yet she wouldn't eat. Definitley was meant for this family! I hope all you mommies out there had a wonderful mother's day! Please keep the people of China in your prayers. So many lives were lost in the earthquake and the numbers are still rising. It too tragic to comprehend. May God lay His loving hand on the people of China!

Madison's First Holy Communion

2008-05-04T13:58:00.005-04:00

Sunday April 27, 2008 was Madison's First Holy Communion. Her beautiful smocked dress was worn by her two older cousins for their First Holy Communion as well, which makes it really special. In the catholic church when the children who are enrolled in the parish school of religion (Sunday School) are in second grade they are able to complete the sacrament of First Holy Communion. This is the first time that they can participate in communion during Mass. We didn't take any pictures of her during her first communion in Mass because we didn't feel it was appropriate during such a reverent time.Again I have taken some wording from a catholic handbook I have to try and explain this sacrament. "At the Last Supper, on the night when He was betrayed, our Savior instituted the Eucharistic sacrifice of his Body and Blood. This he did in order to perpetuate the sacrifice of the Cross throughout the ages until he should come again, and so to entrust to his beloved Spouse, the Church, a memorial of his death and resurrection; a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a paschal banquet in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us." This mystery is the very center and culmination of Christian life. It is the "source and the summit of all preaching of the Gospel...the center of the assembly of the faithful". In every Mass Christ is present, both in the person of his priest and especially under the form of bread and wine. In every mass, his death becomes a present reality, offered as a our sacrifice to God in an unbloody and sacramental manner. As often as the sacrifice of the cross is a celebrated on an altar, the work of our redemption is carried on. (By the way, Vince has shaved his goatee)

At Mass we offer Christ, our passover sacrifice, to God, and we offer ourselves along with him. We then receive the risen Lord, our bread of life, in holy Communion. In so doing, we enter into the very core of the paschal mystery of our salvation-the death and resurrection of Christ.

Eating the supper of the Lord, we span all time and "proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26). If you prepare for it with care and enter into it with living faith, the Eucharist can draw you into the compelling love of Christ and set you afire.

*****Passages taken from HANDBOOK FOR TODAY'S CATHOLIC******

After Mass we had family over for lunch to celebrate. If you ever need a cake for a baptism or other church function-Publix did a great job!

Madison obviously enjoyed it!

It was a wonderful day that I am thrilled we were able to share with our whole family.

Medical update

2008-04-25T12:32:00.003-04:00

Really since we've been home no major ailments for anyone. I thought I would give a synopsis of Zoey's health since we've been home. She went for an eval at the adoption clinic and everything was great, but she had some fluid in her ears so we did a round of antibiotics. She went for her first pediatrician visit and again everything looked great and she got her first round of vaccines in March. About a week after that she started running a fever of 102 so I took her back to the pediatrician and they said her ears were a little red but no biggie. Then the next night, March 31st, she literally screamed ALL NIGHT LONG, so I knew she had an ear infection if not both ears. So April 1st I took her to one of my ENT's after I did tympanograms on her and sure enough she had two infections. We did a round of antibiotics and scheduled to go back in three weeks. Last Friday afternoon the 18th she saw Dr. Lewis for an eye exam and everything looked perfect! Monday she went back for her second round of vaccines and she has done great. She has been sleeping fine, but ever since we got her she has always pulled and batted at her ears. We've wondered if it was a self soothing thing or if they really bothered her because she does it mostly at bedtime. Well we went for recheck of her ears this morning and she still has fluid. Being an audiologist I know all the "we can do this for so many weeks, or we can try this", but I just said, "Tubes is my choice. Let's do it!" So next Thursday morning Zoey is having tubes put in her ears. We went through this with Madison too and I know it will be fine. So that is a brief summary of everything, just keep her in your prayers next Thursday!

Fun at the Park!

2008-04-21T10:49:00.005-04:00

Sunday April 20th was a beautiful day. After church we headed to the Zoo for an afternoon of fun, but plans changed quickly because the zoo was so packed you couldn't even get off the exit ramp (the zoo was free for Earth Day). We decided to head to the park for a fun afternoon with the girls and their cousins. Obviously the swing was Zoey's favorite thing at the park and the girls had fun pushing her.

She wasn't quite sure about the slide!

After the park we headed for something cool to drink at Smoothie King and Starbucks, then home for a restful afternoon.

Crazy, Stormy Fridays

2008-04-17T20:57:00.007-04:00

The last few Fridays here in AL have been crazy as far as storms go. We've gone from 80 degree weather to high 40's and then back to 80's. With this drastic change in weather comes wind, hail, and tornadoes. Thank God we have been lucky enough to not have had any damage close to us, but the storms have still made us uneasy. These are just some pictures I took of Mom and Zoey watching one of the storms blow in.
Hopefully, for this storm season, we are done with tornadoes and hail. It's already too hot for me, I am ready for fall!

A weekend at Desoto State Park

2008-04-02T13:57:00.008-04:00

Several weeks ago our friends the Bosworth's had invited us to spend a weekend at Desoto State Park with them over spring break. We were so excited about getting away for a weekend and also apprehensive because this would be our first time going out of town with Zoey. When you have children you know that your kids are never going to sleep as well away from home, I don't even sleep good away from home. But all in all she did fine and we had a wonderful weekend. We got to relax too because there was lots of helpers to take care of Zoey!We had hoped for sunny weather, which we didn't get. And it was a little cooler than we expected, but we didn't have too much rain and were still able to get out and ride our bikes, and do some hiking. I think that Zoey really loved all the attention from Alec and Gibson. The kids all had a great time playing with Zoey, but believe me she let them know when she had had enough! When we got there on Friday we went for a bike ride. It was pretty bumpy for some of us older folks (me!), but it was a lot of fun to watch the kids (and the adult men) goofing around and relaxing. My bike wasn't made for offroading! Say "Hello" to our campfire master Pat. Friday night we cooked out hotdogs and made Smores, which I hadn't had in years. What a great night! Zoey didn't sleep so great, but the kids did so Saturday was nice. They all bunked on the floor and the adults got the beds, although I don't know which was more comfortable. No bed is ever as good as yours at home!Zoey took a good nap that morning while the boys went on a mountain trail bike ride. It pretty much wore the grown boys out I think! Pat and Vince looked pretty pooped when they got back, but Alec and Gibson were ready for another ride. We drove up to Desoto Falls, which was absolutely beautiful. I don't know if I had ever been there. For some reason I think I might have in college, but am not sure. After that it was back to the cabin for lunch and then out for an afternoon hike. Zoey spent half the weekend covered in Cheese Puffs! And she tried Grahm Crackers too, which were a big hit! Saturday late afternoon Hope, Zoey, and I ran into Fort Payne to get some more soft drinks and a birthday cake for Gibson, because his birthday was Sunday March 30. While we were gone the guys got a campfire going and cooked out some burgers. We got back and ate and then had birthday cake, which Zoey really enjoyed I must say! After that it was back to the campfire to enjoy our last night away. Poor Zoey was so exhausted after a fun filled day on the mountain, which so were we all. It was a great quick little getaway!

Zoey is on the move!

2008-04-02T13:55:00.012-04:00

Well last Thursday (which when I started this post would've been 3-27) Zoey officially started what I consider crawling. Others may call is scooting or creeping, but whatever the classification-she is EVERYWHERE!!!!!!! When I say everywhere I mean it. No area unexplored no anything unturned. We have managed, somehow, to not venture to the steps yet, but I know it won't be long. She is such a busy body, but she has started finally sleeping through the night and it has to be because she is wearing herself out! She is also pulling up on anything and everything. It doesn't matter if it is a block or the dog, she will find a way to stand up. I truly think she will be walking within the next month. She is walking around holding our hands, and even tries to let go one hand at a time. Of course with pulling up comes the injuries, luckily no major ones yet, but she will be my child to go to the emergency room. She is fearless when it comes to that. The only thing she seems to be scared of is still the dog, although that is getting much much better. She just doesn't want her in her face at all and Scout is an in your face kind of dog. She would give everyone a lick bath if they would let her.
I can't even get a picture of them together because she won't sit close to her long enough to take one. Although now that she has started eating Cheerios she thinks it's funny to tease Scout with them and will wave it in her face and then NOT give it to her. It's so amazing to see how far her development has come in these short months we've been home. People had told us she would catch up in her motor skills but I don't think either of us expected it this quickly. God has truly blessed all of us. I knew all this time our lives would change in many ways, good ways, and this unbelievable gift that is Zoey has exceeded all of my hopes and dreams thus far. I thank God everyday for my beautiful girls, our miracle born to us, Madison, and the child He chose for us, Zoey. Of course every family has it's up and down moments and some days it seems it's more downs for some reason, but even on those days I can get in my bed at night with the world's most wonderful husband and be amazingly overjoyed with the life that God has given me and I know how blessed I am.

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE.....a little late!

2008-04-01T20:20:00.011-04:00

What a wonderful Easter Weekend we had. We started on Friday night with our nieces coming over for a sleepover and dying Easter Eggs. We had an obscene amount of eggs to dye thanks to Nana contributing them. We had all kinds of dyes to use, including stickers and glitter. The eggs all turned out so pretty, the girls did a great job. What would an egg dying event be without a major spill. Poor Suzanna, at least it washed out! And Emily had a nosebleed in the middle of it too, but I thought I would spare you all a picture of that. Vince built a big fort in the den for the girls to sleep in. He's tried on several occasions to build a good one, but the blankets just won't stay up, so this time we brought in a small portable shelter that you would use on the beach and then put blankets on that. It worked really well and the girls had fun. Zoey and even Scout tried to get in on the fun! They all curled up and watched The BEE MOVIE, which they said was good, I didn't get to see any of it. Vince and I had clean up duty in the kitchen. Saturday we played, rode bikes (which by the way Zoey looks so precious in her helmut but will NOT leave it on, no matter how tight we have it she can get it off), and relaxed. Easter Sunday we got up and went to Mass and then went to my sister Lee's for Easter lunch and an Easter Egg Hunt. Before changing clothes we had to take advantage of the beautiful day and make some family pictures. I know I am partial, but the girls looked so precious! I just love how the pictures turned out! Such an angel, God is so amazing to bring two beautiful girls into our lives. I am such a blessed mother and wife to have been given my wonderful family!We spent the afternoon at their house with all of our families and the Benedict family. Tyler cooked out ribs and chicken, which were delicious. Everyone brought a little something for a side dish and then we had bunny carrot cake for desert. The egg hunt was a hit. There were even prize eggs with money for the kids to find. Look at all those smiles after the cash had been found!

Vince decided to let Zoey try out the trampoline. She thought that was the most fun thing in the whole wide world. She laughed so hard just bobbing up and down on it (of course he didn't bounce her high or even off the trampoline). It was just amazing to think that a year ago around Easter I started our blog and here it is a year later and we are a family of 4! It was a blessed Easter weekend!

Fun Days!!

2008-03-20T21:47:00.007-04:00

I had been behind on blogging for several weeks and now am trying to catch up, obviously. I've posted so many things recently. First off on Wednesday February 27th our social worker came and did our one month post adoption evaluation. She thought everything looked great and said that Zoey's room was very "peaceful", which was a good thing. Sometimes the children from orphanages can get over stimulated visually if the room is too busy, but she thought hers was great! Yea. She also had to have some pictures of us with Zoey and her with family members to put with her report. We had plenty of Zoey with other people but none of all of us, so this is the one she took for the report: The Blaszczynski Family of Four!The last several weeks at home have been great. Madison and Zoey have bonded and Zoey's little eyes follow Madison wherever she goes and she is fascinated by whatever her big sister is doing. Madison was working on her reading homework one night and Zoey was just listening to every word very intently, not understanding it or anything, but hanging on everything that her big sister was saying. It was so precious!She has fit right into the snuggle club. We are all about curling up on the couch and watching American Idol in our house and Zoey didn't miss a beat when it came to that. See, she is so comfortable that she is picking her nose and doesn't care who is watching!

She LOVES music, especially techno or anything with a good beat. She will boogie! I can't wait until she can get into a dance class, watch out Miss Shalita you have an up and coming hip hop dancer on your hands!

Every day we are just amazed at the changes in her since the day we got her, which was almost two months ago and will be on Easter Sunday. She has come such a long way, going from a blank stare and gorging herself to this happy, moving non-stop, grabbing and playing with everything she can get her hands on, laughing, smiling, rolling around, beautiful baby girl whose eyes are full and bright and filled with love! She has just absolutely thrived in the last few weeks we've had her home and it's just God's loving hand on her and on us for her coming into our lives!In the words of me and my sister when we were little, "We're sisters, we're sisters, we're lovely little sisters. We're sisters, we're sisters, we hope you are some too!"

The weather has been so crazy lately being 40 one day and 70 the next. Here are some picture of one of the warm days when we sat outside to eat our biter biscuit. This is when she first started eating it (or gumming it really). I know the birds were excited once we went inside. A feast for them fit for a king!I think more ended up on Zoey's face, clothes, and the ground than she got in her mouth.

So basically by the time she was done I had to strip her down and put her in the bathtub. It was in her hair, behind her ears, down her shirt, EVERYWHERE! But at least she enjoyed it and it was fun to watch!

Some of you know that we have kind of been blindsided by some issues with Madison. The first few weeks we were home things were great. Then all of the sudden she started getting very upset going to school in the mornings. One day I decided to let her stay home, which she had been begging to do for a few days. I thought maybe a day home with me and Zoey would help. Boy was I wrong. That just led to more trouble when trying to take her to school. I don't mean throwing a tantrum or acting out. I mean screaming crying saying that she was afraid to go to school because she thought I would forget about her and not pick her up. She thought that I would get so tied up with Zoey that I would literally forget her at school. It has been a very tough few weeks for me. I can hardly make her get out of the car, it breaks my heart. I finally week before last went to visit the school counselor after calling her and we all three talked about things. Madison has been visiting her office and calling me some during the day for some reassurance. I also talked to the social worker at the adoption clinic and she told me the same thing, just to keep reassuring her. Vince and I have told her over and over again that this has been a big change for all of us and things seemed to be getting better, but then she had a major breakdown again yesterday morning. I called the counselor and spoke with her because I feel like I just don't know what else to do. I have been able to change my work schedule and will be able to pick her up everyday from school because I will be leaving work at 2:00. I think this will make a difference. If I can show her that I will really be there everyday maybe we'll get over this hump. I probably shouldn't be spilling all this on my blog but it's like a journal for me and makes me feel better, so sorry you have to endure it. We've really tried to spend special time with her, each of us. We've had spend the night company with friends. It happened to be the Friday night that it snowed. It was so great, the girls woke up to a beautiful white covered morning and got to have a snowball fight before going home. It was a perfect sleepover with her friends Neely and Payton! What sweet girls!Tonight my nieces are over for Easter egg dying and movie in a tent night (pictures to follow on my Easter post). Please keep Madison in your prayers that she will find some peace of mind that there is no way we would ever forget her. It kills me to think that that thought would ever cross her mind! My precious first born baby girl so upset tears me up inside and I can't fix it, I don't know how!

Madison was so thrilled that we took this picture of her on the way to ice skating last Saturday, can't you tell? Life has definitely changed for us very quickly, some things are hard to handle but it is all worth it. Madison was playing with Zoey today on the floor after school and said, "Mom I am so glad that we went to China to bring my sister home. I really love her so much, it was really worth it." All I could think of is the song we used to sing in Sunday school growing up, "GOD is so good, GOD is so good, GOD is so good, HE'S so good to me!"

Zoey's Baptism

2008-03-18T19:50:00.006-04:00

On Sunday March 2, 2008, Zoey was baptized in the Catholic Church by Father Bill Lucas, our priest at Holy Infant of Prague in Trussville, Alabama.I am sure for many of you this is a strange thing that you may have heard about being baptized as a baby. Being raised Baptist myself it was something I learned about during my confirmation classes when I converted to Catholicism. I have tried to find a way to explain the Sacrament of Baptism for those of you who aren't Catholic that might be reading this. When I was baptized in the Baptist Church I made the decision to be baptized. When I felt that I truly understood what Jesus had done for me I was in the 4th grade and I acknowledged that I wanted to follow Him through the rite of baptism. In the Catholic Church this is done when we are just babies, if born into the Catholic faith. In a Catholic Handbook I have it says, "Through your baptism, you share with others "the sacramental bond of unity existing among all who through it are reborn". Your baptism can never be repeated because it binds you to God forever. The bond is unbreakable. It is possible for you to lose grace and even faith, but you cannot lose your baptism. You are marked as one of God's own. That same bond links you to all other baptized persons in a sacramental way. You are one of us and we are all "sacrament persons." Together we are called to live until death the baptismal mystery into which we have been plunged."

Zoey's godparents are her Aunt Lee and Uncle Tyler Marlow (my sister and brother-in-law). The role of the godparents according to the Code of Canon Law, "Insofar as possible, one to be baptized is to be given a sponsor who is to assist an adult in Christian initiation, or, together with the parents, to present an infant at the baptism, and who will help the baptized to lead a Christian life in harmony with baptism, and to fulfill faithfully the obligations connected with it" (No. 872). This statement clearly reflects the historical roots of the role of godparents or "sponsors".
To be a godparent, a person must be chosen by the person to be baptized, or by the parents or guardians of a child, or, in their absence, by the pastor or minister of the sacrament. They must be a Catholic who has received the sacraments of holy Eucharist and confirmation, and "leads a life in harmony with the faith and the role to be undertaken." Lee and Tyler are close to Madison and now will be to Zoey as we are very close to their 3 girls too. They are strong in their faith and have strong family values. For these reasons her aunt and uncle were chosen and we couldn't be happier.

It was a great day with lots of family and friends to share the occasion.

Breakthrough Weekend!

2008-02-25T09:39:00.003-05:00

So I started this post in February, how sad that I am so behind. This particular weekend in February we had a major breakthrough with Zoey and Vince. She had been taking a bottle from me in the cradling position finally after two weeks home, but she wouldn't let Vince. After some tips for both of us from our social worker at the International Adoption Clinic at Children's Hospital in Birmingham we had a major breakthrough. It just made her so much happier in many aspects. She began laughing more and playing more. She is high fiving us, waving hi, and playing peek a boo. She is such a joy to us and we love her more everyday!

Other China Pics

2008-02-18T22:18:00.005-05:00

For any of you who were wondering, this is a squatty potty. This was one in a village on the way to the orphanage. Most of the public ones we used were much nicer than this and had water running in them! Vince took this picture when we stopped because the bus driver needed a potty break.

These are a few pictures that we took at Zoey's medical appointment in China. Bless her little heart!

This is a picture of Zoey watching TV for the first time, and of all things she is watching Transformers and loving it. That's my kind of girl!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here are some more pictures of Nana in China.

All of the pictures we posted while in China were from her camera because ours wouldn't fit the cord, so these are from our camera.These are some pictures of our favorite store in Guangzhou, also where we had our laundry done. They were so sweet and awesome there.

This is Madison with the girl that worked there.

She knew Madison by name after their first meeting.

These are pictures from Pizza Hut the day of the moving pizza. I was looking my best that day. We were ready to leave Nanchang, it was getting super icee by this point!

Another picture of our little angels!

This was at the Hotel Gloria Grand. We stayed here after sitting at the airport hoping to leave Nanchang. We were eating breakfast in this picture praying to get on the train to Guangzhou!
We were praying desperately because this is what it looked like outside our hotel window across the city of Nanchang!This is the White Swan Hotel in Guangzhou. We felt like we were in paradise once we got here from Nanchang!

Recent Outings and Family Visits

2008-02-18T21:59:00.007-05:00

Saturday morning the 9th was Zoey's first trip to ice skating. Madison had a ball getting to show everyone her new little sister. Zoey had several offers for a ride around the rink with one of the coaches, but we had to pass this time, maybe another day, Mommy is not quite ready for that yet!

Sunday the 10th, after church we went and had lunch at Aunt Lee and Uncle Tyler's house (my sister and brother in law). We all had a great time getting to visit, the first time really since getting back from China. All the cousins really enjoyed seeing each other and Zoey loved them all!After lunch Madison, Suzanna, Emily, me, Hope, and Neely all went to see the Hannah Montana 3D movie. They all had a ball and the 3 D glasses are fabulous!

Last Sunday, Vince took Zoey visit her Nona and Uncle David. They had a great time visiting and playing with Zoey!

Of course after Madison's PSR class Sunday morning we had to stop at Starbucks. Look at Zoey trying to grab her straw. The funniest thing is that we went to Target and were looking at some clothes and I saw a straw on the floor. I looked to see if one of us had dropped it and sure enough Vince's was gone. I look over and Zoey has chocolate all over her face and hands. She had grabbed that straw in no time and slurped up that chocolate and whipped cream. We've created a monster!

Saturday afternoon we went to Reconciliation and then to Mass. Zoey was looking absolutely adorable in her new outfit that Ms. Heather brought her last weekend. She is stylin'!

Sunday afternoon we went to Vince's parents to spend the afternoon for our neice's 1st birthday. This was the first time that Vince's sister, brother in law, and our nephews have gotten to meet Zoey. We all had a great time and Sarah and Zoey will grow up to be great buddies I am sure!

Monday on Presidents Day, Madison, Zoey, and I went to Huntsville to visit my parents and my grandparents. It was a nice but short visit. Zoey loved my Dad and Grandparents, and of course was thrilled to get to see her Nana again. I know they have really missed each other. Thank you all for your prayers for my mom. She is doing much better. She does have a bulging disk in her lower back and will start physical therapy soon and is visiting a chiropractor, but is really feeling a lot better!

Only home a little over two weeks and we've dragged this sweet baby everywhere. But if your going to be in this family that's the way we roll! She is really doing well, I am able to cradle her for bottles all the time now. She is sleeping through the night (at least the last few nights), and even drank juice today! She is eating well, napping well, babbling, playing, just thriving. I wish I didn't have to go back to work in two weeks, I soooooooo dread it, but we'll make it through just like when Madison was a baby, it will just break my heart though, like it did 7 years ago. But Madison has done great and I am sure Zoey will too.

Confession

2008-02-17T09:13:00.002-05:00

We went yesterday as a family for reconciliation. For those of you who don't know our family is Catholic and Madison will be getting her First Communion in April. Part of that process if for her to go for her first Reconciliation (confession), so we all went as a family yesterday. That is something I have had a hard time with, not being raised Catholic, I didn't feel like it was something I had to do to confess my sins to my priest, I mean I can do that directly to God. But I have learned some things going to meetings for Madison's First Communion and yes, I can confess directly to God, but going to confession is helpful to better my relationship with God by staying conscious of when I sin and my help me keep myself on track better if I go and talk to my priest about it,which is basically what reconciliation is. So Madison went yesterday and did great. I can't believe she is already that old to getting her First Communion.

Adoption Clinic Appointment

2008-02-17T09:01:00.002-05:00

I am so behind. On Wednesday Zoey had her appointment at the Adoption Clinic with Children's Hospital. It went well. The social worker and pediatrician are so awesome there! I had met the social worker before at a conference and she really helped me alot. I didn't feel like we were having any attachment issues but apparently I was wrong. I just thought that Zoey liked to take her bottle sitting up, but it was actually that she wouldn't let me cradle her in my arms. So have been working on that and it is going pretty well with me. Now Vince is another story. She will NOT let him cradle her, so we are taking that day by day and trying work on that. She slept ALL the way through the night last night. HOW WONDERFUL IT IS!!!!!!!!!! She sleeps so much better when she is completely swaddled, arms and legs. If her arms are out she has busy hands and swats her face, pulls her hair, and constantly rubs her face. We are also working on her grabbing toys across midline and that is going really well. All in all she is doing really good. Her eating is better, she is not as scared of Scout, and is really happy. She had to have some blood drawn, now that was not fun at all. Four of us had to hold her down so her arm didn't move and it was pitiful to see her so distraught. She also had to have a chest X-ray because she has had a bad cough, but I guess it was fine because I haven't heard anything. They thought that she looks very healthy and is in like the 90% percentile for her height, weight, and head circumference. We go back in 3 weeks for her hearing test and shots, oh joy. I also have to schedule her to have her eyes checked. All in all everything went great I think. We'll see in three weeks.

1 week over and on to 2

2008-02-08T21:16:00.000-05:00

Well we've been home over a week and I can't believe how it has flown by. I have often wondered what my friends do that stay home. Don't they get bored? How can they say that they don't have time to get things done? Well God has answered that question for me in a big way! I was so proud of myself yesterday because I unloaded the dishwasher and folded a load of clothes while Zoey was napping. I took a 7 week maternity leave with Madison, but an infant is different. Sure you hold them and feed them and change their diaper, but they also sleep alot and don't play. Zoey has been awake pretty much all week, including nighttime, and loves to play. So during the day, we've been sitting on the floor playing or having visitors. Last night (Thursday) was the first night we haven't been up for three and a half hours straight. I hadn't thought about swaddling her with blankets because in my mind I think how terrible that she has been swaddled in blankets for 7 months, but then a friend pointed out to me that that is all she has known and it might make things easier in transission and sure enough it seemed to work. YIPPEE for all of us! Aside from that things have been great. It's so nice to be home finally and in my bed! I can actually drink water in the shower if I want to. Zoey has not been gorging herself with food anymore either. She's not eating half what she was in China, which has made us wonder if her eating so much was a stress thing those two weeks while adjusting to us. And another thing is I think she is cutting her first tooth, but a molar. Has anyone heard of this? She has a big bump in the back and that is where she is constantly knawing on things. Madison had a program at school last Thursday night and we all went. Zoey did great. She didn't even cry when the music got loud. The program was so good. The 2nd grade at SES was wonderful. It was a patriotic theme and about the states. Madison was right in front! She was Vermont and Washington. Zoey got to go to ice skating last Saturday for the first time, Madison was so excited to show her to her teachers and coaches. She also went to Mass for the first time on Sunday. She did pretty good, but we did have to go to the cry room before half the service was over. Tomorrow we go to the Adoption Clinic for her evaluation. I am really excited to see how things are going with her. Of course, I think wonderful, but it will be good to see what the pediatrician and OT think. She is sleeping great during the night and day, which has made everything better. We got some cleaning done today, sheets washing, vaccumed with her in the hip pack, and mopped. For those who kept up with my blog, my mom went to China with us as you know, and has been sick (very sick) since we got home. She had to have an MRI yesterday on her back. She's had trouble walking and it's looking like she possibly has a bulging disk. Please keep her in your prayers. We all want her feeling better soon! Hopefully she'll hear something about those results soon. I am going to try to get some pictures posted in the next few days.

WE'RE HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-03T21:05:00.000-05:00

We made it home last night about 9:30. I've never been so glad to be in the USA and in Alabama in my life. We ate McDonald's at the Chicago airport last night and it was the best burger I've ever eaten in my life. Zoey welcomed everyone at the airport with open arms. She smile at her grandparents and all of her extended friends and family very excitedly. After such a long trip I think she did better than we did. We have to thank everyone who came to the airport to welcome us, the ones who cleaned our house and stocked our fridge and cabinets, and all those who have called, sent gifts and come to visit. You'll never know how much all of you mean to us! We were welcomed home with a beautiful sign in our front yard, balloons all over, and a pink bow on the mailbox. Tonight our good friends the McWhorters brought a fabulous dinner and dessert. And whoever left the Milo's tea on our porch, THANK YOU so much! We have truly been overwhelmed by loving kindness! Zoey slept great in her bed last night. We all went to bed late and got up late, but hopefully that is a good thing and we will all get back on track quickly. Vince and Madison get back in the swing in the morning, which I know will be tough for all of us. We'll keep you posted on how life keeps on now that we are finally home. Thanks to all of you for your prayers while we've been gone, they definitely have been answered because we're all home safe and sound. Praise God! The rocking horse was a present from my grandfather, he made it for Zoey and it was waiting for us when we got home last night. Isn't it precious.

Flight problems, Us No Way?

2008-02-01T23:44:00.000-05:00

So we left the airport on Saturday morning in China at 6:00 and our flight to Hong Kong was great, only thirty miutes. So we get into the Hong Kong airport and our flight that is supposed to leave at 11:40 is now leaving at 4:50 (we hope). Oh NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Obviously that means we won't be in Birmingham at 4:35, 8:55 is more like it unfortunately. Madison was crying, I was trying not to. We just want to get out of here!!!!! Anyway, please don't feel like you have to come to the airport at 9:00 at night. Just please send prayers up that we leave Hong Kong at 4:30! We'll see you all soon, we hope! We are flying United Airways flight 6040 from Chicago if you want to check the times with Birmingham Airport.

Last Day in Guangzhou

2008-02-01T07:10:00.000-05:00

Yep, you guessed it, Red Couch Picture Day. All of our little Princesses were just precious. Not all of them wanted to sit on the couch, but we all tried to get them to smile. Madison and Zoey of course we think are the most precious, to us anyway! We spent our last day in Guangzhou finishing up shopping and going to the Consulate for our Visa for Zoey. Hooray, we get on the plane in the morning and leave Guangzhou at 8:30. When we went to the Consulate we passed the train station and let me tell you it was unbelievable the crowds and the way the police had the crowds herded like cattle and blocked off in police tape. Hopefully, things will be fine in the morning at the airport. Well, we'll see you all at 4:36PM in the HAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Consulate Visit

2008-01-31T07:26:00.001-05:00

We got up this morning and had breakfast and then had to be in our room by 9. We actually didn't have to make a consulate visit. It is strange to us, but our guide went to the Consulate for everyone with our paperwork that we completed last night. We all just had to stay in our rooms from 9-12 and if there was a problem then they would call us. Thank goodness we didn't get a call meaning all paperwork was fine. So next is tomorrow at 2:45 Vince, Me, and Zoey go to the Consulate to pick up her Visa and then we are in the home stretch! We spent the afternoon shopping. We had such a great time walking around Guangzhou. Laine I have to tell you that we have had our laundry done at Home of Love and the girl in there asked how you all were and told me to tell you all Happy Chinese New Year. She thought it was so great that we were friends of you guys and talked about how beautiful your children and you were especially. They are all so sweet in there! We also had a great time in Jordans and in A Gift From China, which is a store that proceeds go to benefit orphanages in China. We have had a great time buying cutie pie clothes for Zoey and beautiful Chinese wear for Madison. And of course us grownups found some things for ourselves too. We of course, as you can see from the pictures found Starbucks, I had to have my frappucino fix. We are getting Zoey broken in early with the frapps! By the time she is 18months she'll be going into Target with Aunt Lee saying she has to have a Mocha like her big sister. We ate dinner again at Lucy's, which again was great. Be praying for everyone over here trying to travel home. It's been absolutely crazy at the airports because of the weather. We have confirmed our flight arrangements and hopefully won't have any problems. The snow here in China has caused major casualties and destruction of disastrous proportions, so please keep all of these people in your prayers. The army had to be dispatched to help feed people stuck on roadways for days at a time. We saw them out on the side of the highway shoveling the snow by hand on the way to Guangzhou. It has been a crazy winter storm and a great many of these people have NO HEAT, just like in the orphanages. After the week we had in Nanchang, it has been so wonderful to be here, even though it is still cold. Everyone is sooooooo nice and most speak English or at least enough to communicate much easier than in Nanchang. Lee, we found the Catholic Chapel, Our Lady of Lourdes. We didn't go to Mass but we did take pictures and wanted to share. Only one more day and we will be on our way. Vince and I are dying for some Milo's Tea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wednesday in Guangzhou

2008-01-30T08:04:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of us with our guide in Nanchang, his name is Bruce. He was so awesome! We couldn't have survived in Nanchang without Bruce and our other guide LiPing. He is in Guangzhou with us, but Bruce stayed in Nanchang. Well after going to bed so late we got up and went to breakfast right before the buffet closed about 10:30. After breakfast we geared up and spent midmorning walking around the hotel. It was pouring down rain outside and surprise I have bronchitis, so we walked through the shops in the hotel. Around 1 we came back up to the room to get some things together before meeting at 2:30 to take Zoey for her medical appointment. While we did that Mom and Madison hit the shopping scene. At the medical appointment they took her picture for her Visa first. Then we went next door to see the ENT and other doctor to check her out. Well the chunk weighed in at a healthy 20lbs and everything else checked out perfectly. Once we got back to the hotel I had to go to do all of the consulate paperwork for tomorrow. We voted for me to do it because I had pretty much done all of the paperwork. I tell you what it is so nerve racking when you start doing all this paperwork. Every "t" had better be crossed and every "i" dotted. We got all of that done finally and then hit Lucy's for some dinner. I had a BLT and fries and it was the best ever!!!!! After that we did a little shopping. We got some PJ's for the girls and some dresses of course, and who could pass up "Sqeaky Shoes". Tomorrow we have to stay in our room from 9-12 while our facilitator takes our paperwork to the Consulate. If there is any problem they will call us, otherwise we go to the Consulate Friday afternoon to get Zoey's Visa and then on the plane Saturday morning. YIPEE! The pics are some randoms like Madison in the snow and us and our guide, and then some from Guangzhou when Mom and Madison ventured out today. And you Springvillians notice that I am representing with my Springville Tiger T-Shirt on! Oh and the horrible bus accident that happened, we weren't the only ones whose family's were concerned. Some of the other families with us has family calling their state offices trying to find out information too. Again thank you all for the prayers which led us here safely!

We made it Guangzhou

2008-01-29T20:50:00.000-05:00

Sorry to keep you all waiting, I heard that some of you were worried about us being in an accident,but I am happy to say that it wasn't us. We made it to Guangzhou about 2:00 am and tried to go straight to bed. It is almost 10 in the morning now and we have just gotten up. The bus trip was very long, but all in all the babies did great. The plane trip will be a breeze compared to that. We have left the freezing rain and snow behind for pouring down rain and dreariness, but who cares we are still coming home on time! We go this afternoon for our medicals at the hospital and then tomorrow to the US Consulate. I'll try to post some pictures later. We are about to eat something and walk around the hotel some. Thanks for all the prayers, I know that is what got us here finally and safely!

Ok- we are leaving......by Bus?

2008-01-28T22:54:00.000-05:00

Well actually 2 buses. They keep saying we tell driver safety first, but that's hard to believe when the roads are iced over. Anyway we are leaving at 1:00 in 2 buses to drive to Guangzhou. We have no idea how long this is going to take, we are definitely in for a LONGGGGGGGGG bus ride. The sun has peeked out a little bit so your prayers are working, now if it would just heat up and melt everything! Once we get to Guangxi (?) I think, they say it will take 6 hours to get to the White Swan, but who knows how long the ride will be to Guangxi, so keep us in your prayers. That 15 hour flight is sure sounding good right now!

IT's looking Grim!

2008-01-28T21:49:00.000-05:00

So it's 10:55 in the morning and now the trains have stopped to Guangzhou, so we are literally stuck in Nanchang and they are supposed to get 4 more inches of snow tonight. Our guides are freaking out too, saying "this is very bad", thanks for the encouragement. At least we are in a hotel and have a bed and food. They are trying to get us on a bus to get to at least the next province, because it is much warmer. If we can just get out of Nanchang and then meet up with a train or something, but we have no clue. So basically if we can't get out in the next few days we don't know when we will be home. We have already tried to reschedule the US Consulate visit and there was some conflict there on their part. We are all just like, "I cannot believe this. Of all things to have worried about before the trip, getting snowed and iced in was not one of them." I can't believe now that I was actually stressing over the paperwork. In Vince's dispair he and Madison are going out to have a snowball fight. Me and Mom are just hanging out listening to our guides yell at people in Chinese over the phone across the hall. We'll keep you posted. If you don't see a post for a while hopefully we are in route somewhere that's warmer!

Still in Nanchang

2008-01-28T07:38:00.001-05:00

So everything with our certificates and things was fixed no problem. We loaded up and headed to the airport at 2:30. We got their about 3:30 and the whole way there we fought iced roads. We sat at the airport until 6:30 and during that time found out that people had been sitting at the airport for 2 days waiting to fly to Guangzhou so any flights going there were loading these people that had been waiting. We had to sit at the airport for a certain amount of time before they would refund our plane tickets so we could then turn around and book train tickets, yes, I said TRAIN tickets. We came back to downtown Nanchang and are staying at a different hotel, but thank God we have a bed to sleep in. Tomorrow we leave around 3 in the afternoon we think, by train for a 12 hour train trip in sleeper cars to Guangzhou. We have to get special permission from the US Consulate to still make our appointments on Thursday. We have to have their medicals done before our Consulate appointment, so we are all praying that we can get the babies medicals done when we get to Guangzhou on Wednesday. Needless to say, it has been a VERY long day. And who would expect any differently when talking about us on a trip that China would have the worst freezing weather it's had in like 30 years. We told everyone at the airport that it's because they are traveling with us that this happened. We'll hopefully be posting on Wednesday night from the White Swan, but I probably won't get to post tomorrow. Pray for good weather on the train! All in all at least we still all like each other and are managing to laugh about everything. Tonight after getting to the hotel Zoey found her laugh and we have been cracking up at her while we play and tickle her. Madison, God love her, has been a trooper throughout this day too. She is so exhausted she actually didn't want to eat dinner, even dessert. They have some fabulous gas masks in the closets in our room that Vince was going to model for us but we were afraid to take them out of the boxes, hopefully we won't be needing those for anything tonight. Having all this happen today has really been humorous and none of us has really been to bothered by it. The babies have all been great. We were worried about traveling with them and they have all been so good, we're all much more worn out than they are. All of us adults only care about being able to leave to come home on Saturday! Pray that everything falls into place from here on out! Then we can see you on Saturday.

Waiting to leave Nanchang

2008-01-27T21:38:00.000-05:00

It's Monday morning around 10:45 our time and we are just hanging out waiting to leave. Checkout is at 2:30 and then we will go to the airport. Our flight is not until around 6:00 so that should be great. Of course with traffic we'll probably be sitting on the bus for a while to get to the airport. We were relieved to hear last night that the White Swan in Guangzhou is not under quarantine anymore. There was a chicken pox outbreak there with some of the other travelers, but apparently it is all clear now. We heard from our coordinator a little bit ago, he called our room and asked us to look at our adoption certificate. Of course out of the three of our names, one of them is misspelled. We both looked at it that day and didn't realize that they had left a "z" out of Vince's last name. So now we are waiting to hear how much we are going to have to pay to correct it. I guess we didn't notice it because we are so used to people misspelling it, we pretty much accept any spelling. HaHa. Hopefully all will be corrected soon and we will be boarding that plane to Guangzhou. Only 5 more days until the Blaszczynski 4 hit Birmingham! YIPEE!

A day of laziness.....

2008-01-27T03:52:00.000-05:00

First of all we ALL slept good last night. It was the first night since we left home that Vince and I didn't wake up at 2 in the morning. We actually slept until 7 and we had gone to bed at 9. We didn't have any schedule today so we've just kind of milled around. After breakfast we came back up to the room and checked the blog comments, which again we loved reading, thanks you guys for keeping them coming. We decided to put Zoey on the floor and let her play to see how she would do. It's been so unbelievable to see how much she has changed in the last 5 days. The first 48 hours we had her she had kind of a blank look about her, she do the things that a 7 month old should do. She wouldn't reach for things, I tried to get her to play with some toys and she would scream, etc. Well, yesterday afternoon she really took off with the toys, but we learned that only one at a time is what works best right now. This morning when on the floor we were so amazed at the things she was doing. She would actually sit for about a minute before starting to fall to the side or back. She almost rolled over, and was actually trying to push herself with her feet to reach a toy when on her stomach. It just takes your breath away when you realize how much interaction with these babies just heaves them forward in development in no time. The first few days she wanted to be walked to go to sleep, now I have to rock her to get her to sleep, which I actually love. It only takes about 5 minutes to get her down, but that has always been my favorite part, when they snuggle that sweet head up under your chin and you can hear them breathing so peacefully. I just melt. Thats my time and I am so thankful that both of my girls wanted me at that time. I will always cherish that quiet sluggly time! Also, Madison changed her first diaper this morning. She did a great job, even though she didn't exactly like it, but it wasn't a poopy diaper, she was relieved about that. After a nap and after playtime we ventured back to the market this morning. Then this afternoon we went to Pizza Hut again for a late lunch. We sat down and ordered our pizza and had about finished eating when we really took notice of the people sitting next to us. They were eating pizza too, but after close examination we realized that something on top of their pizza was moving. Yes, I said MOVING. We don't know what it was because the only way to talk to the wait staff is by pointing to pictures, but it looked like some kind of fish or tenticles. Vince tried to get some video of it, but it didn't really turn out well. It was so bizarre, maybe it was fish lips? Then tonight we went downstairs for the free buffet and the hostess said they were full and we should come back later, not that there was a wait and it would be a few minutes, but "come back later". So we just fed Zoey in the room, we weren't hungry anyway. It's just been such an interesting cultural experience these last few days. I don't know what I was expecting from China, but it has surpassed all I thought it would be in many different ways. I am ready to come home but wouldn't trade these days for anything. Tomorrow morning we meet at 11 for all the babies passports. Then at 3 we are off to the airport to depart for Guangzhou. YIPPEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tour Day in Nanchang

2008-01-26T07:03:00.000-05:00

We got up this morning and met in the lobby at 9:30 for a day of touring. It froze last night and everything was a sheet of ice, but this is China so onto the bus we go, just bundle up. We first went to a Buddhist Temple which was very interesting. The painting on the walls and ceilings was amazing and the statues were incredible. Madison was so funny, she said, " So did this guy used to live here or what is this?" It was so funny. So there I am trying to explain that some people worship Buddha and not making any sense. Outside the entrances there were these huge pot/trough things were people came and burned incense, the smell was stronger than any I've ever smelled. The people were all very nice and welcoming. One of the largest Buddha's was 16 tons, but hollow on the inside our guide said, if not it would over 100 tons. There were lots of large branches down in the courtyards because of the ice and there was a lady there singing some song while she picked up and moved the branches. Something about it was so calming in a way after the bustle of this city being so crazy. After this temple we went on to another "tower" our guide called it, a pagoda. Again it was very interesting, not as ornate or dazzling. It was very iced over so we all had to be careful not to kill ourselves, yes, you all know I am talking about myself particularly. This pagoda did have a very big tower that most of the men climbed. I didn't even attempt to cross over the threshold. Vince said the steps were incredibly steep, more like a ladder. After this historical cite seeing tour, they took us to a local porcelain store. The items were beautiful and most very expensive. Some the vases were unbelievably huge, and cost over $1000. We found some beautiful porcelain chopsticks to save for Zoey and a few other things. We then came back to the hotel and decided to venture out in the sleet to Pizza Hut and oh was the pizza worth it. It was freezing by the time we got back to the hotel. We all rested and thawed out. Around 6:00 we were to meet at a restaurant on the 9th floor for a formal Chinese dinner. Our guide explained that none of the food was "not normal", we wouldn't be eating dog or anything like that. Well, some of it was "not normal" to say the least, but we all tried some of most of it. I for one tried the Fish Lips, and let me tell you I am NOT a better person for it. I could definitely lived my days without that taste! YUCK! We also had beef, shrimp, chicken, eggplant, fish, and some veggies. It was a very huge spread of food and even though the food was not to our liking it was a wonderful presentation. Zoey made it through a bath tonight without screaming. I got in with her this time and she had a ball splashing around. This afternoon she had the best time playing on the bed with Madison. She just stared at her and giggled and has been smiley and giggly all afternoon. We have one more day here and then it's off to Guangzhou. The bridge to the airport was closed today because of ice, pray that we don't have any travel problems to delay our trip home. All in all the trip is going by faster and even though it has been a difficult time at some points, it has been well worth it and I am glad we've gotten to experience the sights, sounds, smells, foods, and life of where our daughter is from. It will be wonderful to share it with her when she is older. She is in Vince's lap cooing away right now and it's just so precious to hear her little babbling voice!

Good Morning

2008-01-25T16:32:00.001-05:00

It's about 5:30 in the morning and of course us Americans are wide awake, Zoey is asleep like a rock. You guys are killing me with your comments. I've been sitting here bawling my eyes out reading them. And Joseph I have gotten all your comments, what's up with Buffalo NY? Last night I sat with Zoey on my legs, where I was laying down and she was sitting on my stomach with her back against my legs so she could face me and she just played for a good 45 minutes. It was so amazing to watch her. In just these few days she has changed so much. She is not sitting up but getting closer and holding her head up great. She is playing with simple things, like socks and her feet. She would rather have those things than any toys we brought her and it's easy to see how those toys would be overwhelming after not being able to hold onto or grab things because of being swaddled so tightly in her basket. She would just coo and babble at the sock or her toes and she finally pooped on her own, twice, thank the Lord! It's amazing how much that makes life better. One thing we still are working on is not screaming when laying down to change her diaper. I figure it because she associates being layed down with being left alone in her bed/basket for hours. She will cry and then start this kind of humming sound, a self soothing sound and it breaks my heart. We finally had a breakthrough last night with that and I was able to get her on her back for a diaper change with no crying. I just have loved the last two night of cradling her and giving her her bottle. She looks up into my eyes and grabs my finger, I just absolutely melt. We just love her so much. Looking at her all this time of waiting just fades away. Thank you God for such an incredible blessing.

Friday to remember

2008-01-25T07:16:00.000-05:00

Well, this will probably be a long post because it has been a long day. First I have to say that yesterday and last night were great. Zoey slept and so did I finally. This morning we got up and had breakfast and then met at 8:30 for the bus ride to Poyang County SWI (social welfare institute). Driving in China is NOTHING like driving in the US. For one thing there are no road rules. It's every man for himself, seriously. I can't look out the window in traffic because it is so scary. So on the way to the orphanage we drove a long two lane road through unbelievable landscapes and economic situations. What we would see as abandoned hovels are actually homes and stores. There were rice patties everywhere you looked, chickens, ducks, and a few cows. People walking everywhere, clotheslines with clothes on them in places that you wouldn't expect anyone to live. There was an accident on one of the bridges on our way there and traffic was stopped, when we made it by there was literally a huge piece of the side of the bridge railing missing, a helmet, blood on the road, and no ambulance, some police leaving the scene and that's it. We wondered if anyone went below into the water to retrieve whomever might have gone over the edge. After a 3 hour ride we arrived at the orphanage. It was very nice and clean. The workers were more than hospitable and gave us all kinds of fruits and hot water to drink in a lovely room with hard wood furniture. They were very kind to answer all of our questions. If we ever wondered why our children had on so many layers of clothing the answer was given to us as soon as we walked up. The doorways are all open with no doors, there is no heating and the buildings are stone. It was absolutely FREEZING. We could see our breath in the welcome room. They permitted us to walk through the rooms where the babies were and actually see them in their beds. They actually don't sleep in beds they are all in baskets and completely swaddled in a million blankets. All you could see were their little faces. One baby was only 3 days old. One started to cry while we were there and no nanny came over to calm it, Mom actually leaned down and patted it. It was absolutely the most heart wrenching thing I've ever been through. I couldn't walk all the way through. It was good to see where Zoey has spent her first 7 months of life. And it was very obvious how much the nannies and workers cared for the children, they cried when we left. It was very clean though and at least she was found and had some shelter and care. We are very appreciative for that. After the orphanage, the director and staff took us all to lunch at local restaurant. It was one of the more interesting experiences of my life. We had all kinds of local favorites for lunch including some spicy kind of what looked like miniature green beans, mushrooms, noodles, fish with head on it, pork and sticky rice balls, dumplings, fruit, egg soup, chicken including the feet fried, Chinese beer, and rice wine liquor. After the meal the whole staff at the restaurant wanted their pictures made with all of us and several of the men took pictures with Madison. She was definitely the star of the bunch. Bless her heart, she was such a good sport about it, they even wanted to pick her up. She also was a trooper when it came to going to the bathroom and it was a squat potty (a hole in the ground). The workers and the director were all very kind and we had a really enjoyable experience. Zoey has been such a treat today, giving us lots of smiles, coos, and laughing hysterically. It's been a very long, emotional, but wonderful day.

Today was good

2008-01-24T06:15:00.000-05:00

Today was better. The morning started off with fussiness, but after lunch and a poop finally we had a good turn around. She would sit on the bed and play, she laughed, smiled, and we ventured out to the store, which was very interesting. This superstore which is a mall and market in 8 floors is like Walmart/Galleria on speed! Of course everyone staring at us, Madison, and Zoey not being completely covered (all skin) made things awkward. We did purchase her a full suit to keep her covered so we wouldn't get comments and dirty looks. Anyway, hope you enjoyed the pics.

It's about 10am

2008-01-23T20:53:00.000-05:00

...And Zoey is asleep. We just got finished reading all of the comments you guys have posted and I am bawling my eyes out. I am so tired. I know I have NEVER been this tired in my life. I think it's because for one I haven't slept, but emotionally too. I am so ready to come home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! China is not for me, at least Nanchang isn't, we'll see how Guangzhou is. We'll be here until the 28th. Tomorrow we will be taking a 4 hour bus ride to the orphanage. This orphanage is only 2 years old our guide told us and that it is in the poorest section of Jiangxi Province. It should be a very eye opening experience for all of us. We are a little concerned about how Zoey will react to this. I was apprehensive about going for that reason, and the 4 hour bus ride with the heat blaring! (Lee I'll let you know how it goes) Carla-thank you sooooooomuch for letting us use your computer. without it I don't know what we would've done. It helps us stay connected to everyone at home and that helps, so thank you again for letting us use it. We are all in agreement, Suzanna, that Zoey looks like she could be your sister! She is so precious and beautiful and definately likes to snuggle! We are about to brave the streets in a little bit to go to the market. Mom, Vince, and Madison went yesterday and had some great stories about their hour experience there, so they think that we all need to go today, oh joy! You all know how much I love being out of my element and in crowded places. Oh by the way you pronounce Zoey's Chinese name: Bwa Chung. It shows how Southern we are saying: Bo Chang haha. All of the families we are traveling with are wonderful, we've had a good time comparing notes, especially on trying to get these girls to go potty, which Zoey hasn't. We'll post some pics later. Keep the comments coming, they sure bring home a little closer!

Another night down

2008-01-23T17:41:00.000-05:00

It's almost 7 in the morning on Thursday I think and yesterday afternoon was pretty rough. We can't sit down with Zoey, she wants you to stand constantly with her and let me tell you Vince and I both are so sore this morning. I kept trying to cradle her yesterday and she wouldn't look at me, would arch her back and scream. It was so heartbreaking to me. I know that she is having some trust issues and is grieving, I think. She cried and cried, but it still has not been quite as bad as what i had tried to set myself up for. Then last night she wouldn't go to sleep. We kept putting her down and she would sleep for a bit and then wake up. She finally went to sleep when I put the hip hammock on and walked her for over an hour. then I just layed down with it on and finally shimmied out of it after about an hour and a half. Hopefully today will be a turning point. In a way I am kind of glad we are going through this, so maybe by the time we get to Guangzhou she'll be much happier. Oh well she's up so I will post later.

More pics from today

2008-01-23T02:32:00.000-05:00

Ok I am trying the pictures....

2008-01-23T02:19:00.001-05:00

Ok, the first is our hotel in Beijing. It was pretty nice and everyone was very friendly. But smoking is permitted everywhere here and talk about choking!!!!! Then the rest of these can speak for themselves. These are from Zoey's Gotcha Moment! She has on about 5 layers of clothes. It was unbelievable how much they had these babies bundled up. They were all sweating, bless their hearts. Some of them had splits up their clothing for going to the bathroom. By the time we got all of Zoey's clothes off she was soaked through 4 of those layers.

A long morning of paperwork

2008-01-22T23:42:00.000-05:00

Well today is Wednesday in the afternoon. We are hanging in the hotel after a long morning of paperwork on a HOT Bus! Last night Zoey did great. We fed her, she eats like a pig. Loves rice, noodles, bananas, and oatmeal. We gave her a bottle and about 9:00 she was asleep and slept most of the night. Even when she did wake up she didn't cry, she would just stare at me. I still haven't gotten a smile, but of course, Vince has and Madison. Madison is been such an angel, a helper, and entertainer! Everyone in Nanchang just stares at her, it's very unnerving for her. But her blond hair and freckles are not quite the norm here. Everyone has been so nice and the food interesting. Nanchang is nonstop! Horns honking even at 3:00 this morning. I still haven't figured out the picture thing, I am working on it. Zoey seems to only be content when you are standing with her. She doesnt like to sit and play. She likes toys but she wants you to stand with them in her face. Her eyes follow Madison wherever she goes. She does not like bathing! And she has Freddy Kruger knife nails, we've got to go to the store and get some clippers ASAP! Everything has been such a whirlwind I am kindof loopy about it. I finally cried today standing in the Adoption Affairs office I realized after two and a half years I have my baby, and she is MINE FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! God is so amazing. What did I ever do to deserve such an amazing life and beautiful family. Thank you everyone for your sweet posts, I've enjoyed reading the comments and Mom has been reading some of the to all of us if we are occupied. We have a free day tomorrow and then Friday we will take a 4 hour bus ride to the orphanage. I think we are about to venture out to the market for some supplies which everyone seems to be excited about doing except me, but I guess I will take on the challenge. Hopefully I'll get some pictures posted today!

WE GOT HER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-22T08:36:00.000-05:00

We flew into Nanchang on Tuesday afternoon and as soon as we got on the bus to go to our hotel, Bruce and LiPing told us we were getting our babies today! And within an hour of that we were holding her and kissing her. She is so precious. We are so exhausted and jetlagged, but have jumped into the fire. We have finally gotten her to sleep so I will try to post tomorrow while she is napping and upload pics if I can figure it out. Anyway, we are officially a family of 4!

We're Here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-21T05:08:00.000-05:00

First of all, Lee there is NO WAY you could've survived that car ride from the airport. We've been at the hotel for a while and I still feel like I am going to vomit. I definately don't want to fly for that long again either. But everything went fine, Madison was an angel! It's freezing outside and sweaty and smokey in the hotel. We have to be up in the morning to fly again this time to Nanchang, Jiangxi, the province where Zoey is from. It's been a very long day and we are going to go to bed. We'll keep you posted! Love From Beijing!

Less than 24 hours!

2008-01-19T10:47:00.000-05:00

We woke up this morning after not sleeping much anyway thinking there was going to be all this snow on the ground. Well now that it is 9:48 in the morning it is actually snowing pretty hard, I mean ,we live in Alabama it's not an every winter occurance for us. I am thinking that this is the start to a whole new outlook on the world for the next two weeks. We start off with SNOW in Alabama and by the end of this day possibly 2 inches of it, and then in the morning taking off on a life changing experience that only God could lead us in. I think we are ALL full of excitement beyond any ever experienced; because of the intercontinent travel, bringing another family member into the family (I mean Madison is 7 so it has been a while since diapers), major anxiety because of the unknown in this whole trip, not speaking the language, not being able to drink the water, etc. But I keep coming back to God, He has lead us on this incredible journey, full of love and support from our incredible family and amazing friends, and will bring us home safe and sound with our beautiful baby girl and her beautiful, fabulous big sister in tow! The next blog entry should be from Beijing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Packed and Ready!

2008-01-18T22:11:00.000-05:00

It's completely amazing to me that we have two weeks worth of stuff (well if worn over and over again) into 3 suitcases, 4 including my mom's and 3 carry on bags. This includes everything for Zoey: bottles, cereal, formula, diapers, wipes, clothes, etc. It's the most amazing packing job we're ever done! Now just get us on that plane!

February 2, We Land!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-18T19:34:00.000-05:00

So here is our flight information for the day we return to Alabama:
Flights: UNITED AIRLINES, UA 5922 Operated by /UNITED EXPRESS/SKYWEST
From:
CHICAGO OHARE, IL (ORD)
Departs:
2:45pm
To:
BIRMINGHAM AL, AL (BHM)
Arrives:
4:36pm

We would love for anyone to come meet us at the airport, I know we'll be ready for familiar faces! I don't know what condition we'll be in after that flight, but we'd love to see you guys! Keep us in your prayers please during the next two weeks. We'll see you all soon, ALL 4 Of US!!!!!!!!!!!!

SNOW???????????????????

2008-01-18T10:20:00.001-05:00

The one time in like 15 years it's supposed to snow would be when we are trying to leave the country. We had some on Wednesday, much more than we expected. Vince and Madison actually had a mini snowball fight on the back deck, but now they are predicting like 2 inches, come on????? As much as I would love for it to snow for all of you guys that are not going to China right now, I can't manage thoughts about delayed flights and things like that! Please God, let us get out of Birmingham on time and Chicago on time! That's all I ask, no ice on the wings or the runway, just let us get on our way to Beijing Sunday morning! It can snow when we get home in February. That would fine with me!
Last night we managed to repack again and squeeze everything from the suitcase we had packed for Zoey into our suitcases. I hope that they are only 44lbs., otherwise I guess we'll be discarding things at the airport. I can't believe it's finally here, day after tomorrow we are on our way to China, YIPEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well it's Thursday afternoon.....

2008-01-17T15:44:00.000-05:00

So we leave for China in 3 days, well Sunday morning, and I am really beside myself. Our house is an absolute disaster and for those of you who don't know me well, I am a bit of a clean/neat freak!!!! (that's probably an understatement) We have suitcases all over our bedroom and carry on bags, plus my house needs to be cleaned so bad and I can't do it because of course right before we leave, yesterday, I had to have an epideral shot for my back so I can carry that sweet baby around China. Anyway enough babbling, I am just so ready to get on that plane! Next Wednesday morning (Tuesday night in the U.S.) we finally get to kiss, hold, and love on our sweet baby girl, after 2 1/2 years of paperwork and waiting. I have to say thank you to all of our family and friends who have been so supportive in EVERY way, from donating money, to buying things for us, to keeping Madison for us to help us save money, everything little thing means more to us than you can imagine! We'll keep you all as updated as we can in China!

Pictures to Share

2008-01-10T20:06:00.000-05:00

Some of you may have seen this picture from the blog link: Digging to China This is a picture of the orphanage where Zoey is right now. She at the Poyang County SWI (social welfare institute) in Jiangxi Province, China. My friend Courtney's daughter is also there and I had seen this photo on her blog. Vince and I had tried to find something on the internet on the SWI and couldn't find any pictures. It kind of reminds me of a pink beachhouse along the gulf coast. I know in reality it is nothing like that, but it is kind of comforting to me to think of it that way. It seems cheery to me and that is comforting too. Right now it is tenatively on our travel schedule to visit the orphanage several days after Gotcha Day. My mom told me that when she visited China years ago that they had told them on a tour that if you look at the corners on the roofline you can see how they point up, toward heaven. This will bring blessings on them. I thought that was very interesting. I know that blessings are being brought on those precious babies, they are being cared for until their forever families can get to China to bring them "HOME". This picture below is a picture of Poyang (a.k.a Boyang) Lake.
This is some of the landscape and scenery from Poyang. You can see from these pictures how green and lush the area looks. I am so glad to see that Zoey is from such a beautiful part of China. I am so overjoyed to know that in a very short time we will be there!

CA APPOINTMENT CONFIRMATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-09T14:52:00.000-05:00

Yeah Yeah Yeah, we finally have our US Consulate appointment confirmation on January 31 at 9:00 am, so we are definately, absolutely leaving on Sunday morning January 20 at 6:57 am to arrive in Beijing January 21 at 4:05 pm (they are 12 hours ahead of us) and then Gottcha Day is January 23rd in Nanchang the capital of Jiangxi where little Zoey is waiting for us unknowingly. And then we return to the US in Birmingham on Feb. 2 at 4:46 pm!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is such an amazing relief to have an itinerary, flight arrangements and know we are definately going on a particular day! WOOHOO, Zoey Bo Cheng Blaszczynski (boy that's a mouthful) HERE COMES YOUR FOREVER FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

China-Not this week......

2008-01-08T11:29:00.000-05:00

Well we just got word from our agency that we won't be traveling until the 20th of January, we think. We finally have a verbal committment from the US Consulate for a January 31 appointment, but we have to have it in writing. I think they are hoping to have that by the end of the week. Please keep us in your prayers and of course, Zoey, we are about
to scream! God please give us patience! And pray for Madison, bless her heart, I think she is almost more anxious than we are. She is scared about traveling (of course we are too), but she has a little bit of a chlostrophobia issue and keeps asking if we could get stuck in the plane and the doors won't open. So pray for some peace of mind for her and our travels! We'll keep you all posted and hopefully we'll hear something soon.

Update on last post for TA

2008-01-02T17:19:00.000-05:00

Our agency keeps pretty quiet about things, which I like because we don't get any false information or get our hopes up, but after hearing possible dates from a friend with another agency, who we will be traveling with because we are all under a larger umbrella agency, I emailed our coordinator at our agency and this is what she wrote back:

"We are hoping these dates are going to happen (1/11-1/26). We want you guys to get over there before the New Year. The travel approval letters have not been issued yet, so we don’t know what dates you are going to travel. But the dates listed below are within the range. Hopefully we’ll know more by tomorrow or Friday."

Now I am REALLY freaking out!!!!!!!! We could be going to China NEXT FRIDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Waiting on that TA!!!!!

2008-01-02T17:15:00.000-05:00

Well we keep hearing reports but don't know anything concrete yet. We've heard that there might be a possibility of travel January 11th through the 26th. I am absolutely freaking out!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That's NEXT Friday! AUGHAUGHAGUAHAGUAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was feeling prepared, now I am feeling very unprepared!!!! I'll keep you all posted!

One TA spotted in Boston......

2007-12-28T17:41:00.001-05:00

Well on the Rumor Queen forum one TA has been spotted. They are in Boston, MA and their LID was 12-12-05 also. Their LOA (letter of acceptance) was sent back to China on 12-14, so hopefully our TA won't be far behind! I am going to hope that it will be within the next week. This roller coaster ride is making me nauseous!

Visa's

2007-12-28T17:34:00.000-05:00

We got the call today from our courrier and our Visa's are on their way! At least that's one hurdle that's over. Whew!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now if that TA will just come!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE BLASZCZYNSKI FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-22T19:13:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas from our house to yours! Well, I meant to post this before Christmas but you know how that goes. Anyway we hope that everyone had a very Merry Christmas! We had these shirts made originally to do our Christmas cards, but then decided to save our money and do some kind of announcements when we get back from China, so be looking for that in the months to come! The school age children at our parish did an acting out of the Christmas Story and Madison's class, the second graders, were angels and shepherds. Instructions were sent home with them on how to make angel wings with coathangers and white tights. Well, Mommy lost those instructions! So I just made up my own instructions and poor Madison, her wings didn't look like an angels but more like a bat. She was standing next to our friend Parker McWhorter and her wing kept jabbing him in the face during the whole thing. Bless his heart he kept trying to move over to get away from her wing. I am surprised we weren't called down by Father Bill to leave the service because we were all laughing so hard. Anyway, it was very precious and we all enjoyed seeing our children involved in such a special service to recognize the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ!
Our Precious Little Present-Zoey!

To Backtrack A Little.......

2007-12-22T19:04:00.000-05:00

On December 7th we finally got what we had been waiting for, our referral!!!!! We checked Madison out of school that afternoon and she was absolutely thrilled to see a picture of her sister after all this time. She had lots of people in mind already that she couldn't wait to share the news with. Number one being our dog, Scout, who you can tell by the expression could care less, although it is more food to get dropped on the floor for her so I am sure she'll be more excited once Zoey is here! Madison also couldn't wait to tell her skating instructor, Miss Claire. I didn't get a picture of the moment, but she was so excited she even came off the ice to hug me. Madison has been so involved in the whole process. When we didn't get our referral on the 6th of December, she was devistated. She cried so hard after school that day. We are so happy that she is excited about being a big sister. Of course, being used to being the only child, she doesn't I don't think, realize what a rude awakening she is in for. But I know that she will be a wonderful big sister! Just another quick shot of Zoey's room that has long been waiting for her, and this wonderful frame that finally we can put her picture in!

More updated facts on Zoey

2007-12-20T18:18:00.001-05:00

Late this afternoon I got an email from our agency with some "updated" medicals on Zoey. The biggest "update" is that she weighs 17lbs., not 11.9 anymore, so yeah she is very healthy!!!! And she is 25 inches long. So it looks like we will be able to, for sure, by 6-9 month clothes for her. Still we sit and try patiently to wait for that TA. Things are all falling into place though. Little by little I keep remembering things I need to take care of. I finally called and spoke with Madison's principal today to make sure she would be excused from school to travel and I spoke with the director of the daycare I want to get Zoey into. She is supposed to be calling me back tomorrow to let me know when there will definately be an opening. Our Visa's are being processed, so that's moving along. Now if I can just get everything together on the travel list and be prepared to pack, and make it through Christmas, I think we'll be ok!

Getting things in order.....

2007-12-14T19:33:00.000-05:00

Well you wait and wait for your referral for two years and then you finally get to see your beautiful childs precious face, then the next phase......travel preparations. We received a history on Zoey a few days ago. A short synopsis...
She was found on 6-7-07 at the front gate of a local hospital and was reported to the local police. She was admitted to the orphanage with the police's permission. She received a medical check-up and her date of birth was estimated based on the condition of her cord. She was healthy and weighed 6.6lbs. She at 4 months was eating rice cereal, has juice, mashed fruit and egg yogurt, milk, she sleeps through the night (8-6), localizes to sounds and people, can lift her head up when on her tummy, and babbles alot.
It's so exciting to hear these wonderful things, but is sad too because we have not been there to experience all these milestones. We are absolutely thrilled about being able to soon hold her in our arms, kiss and hug her, and watch her thrive in a home and family full of love.
This week we returned our referral acceptance saying that we absolutely want this precious angel! We also sent off for our Visa's so we can travel to China to bring her home. Now we are back to the waiting game. At least during this leg of the wait we have packing to keep us occupied and the Christmas Season, of course we have had life in general keeping us occupied the last two years and our beautiful Madison! She is so excited about being a big sister! She's so adorable when she talks about her, I love to see that twinkle in her eye.

More Information on our sweetie!

2007-12-10T12:04:00.000-05:00

Well how's this for a shocker- Zoey is 11.9lbs (tiny) and 23 inches long. She can hold her head up when laying on her stomach, she likes toys, she laughs out loud and smiles often, she can follow sounds and people when they leave the room (yeah she can hear!). I am just so overwhelmed. Our little angel!

I am so overwhelmed with love!

2007-12-08T17:24:00.001-05:00

The last two days have just been unbelievable to me and Vince. Not only are we mentally exhausted from being on pins and needles wondering when we would get the call, but physically exhausted because neither of us have slept well wondering and waiting. I know that we have never received so many phone calls and emails of congratulations. Emails from people all over the world that we've never even met who've said they have been following our blog and are so thrilled for our family. Madison has been carrying around a picture of Zoey wherever she goes and honestly every so often she will open it up and say, "I just can't believe how cute she is, I wish she was here now." It just touches my heart. We have already been blessed with the birth of a wonderful amazing daughter, who I can't believe is 7 years old and now God has led us on this long, but incredible journey to Zoey who we know will be the perfect fit for our family. You can tell just from her picture, she's already sticking her tongue out at the photographer! We can't wait to kiss all over those sweet cheeks! Thanks to everyone who has been so supportive these last two years and in advance for the time to come. God has definately taught us some important lessons already and I know for me, I have many more to learn from Him. I thank Him everyday for the life He has blessed me with, I don't deserve what He has given me, but I am sure going to continue to try my best to live in His ways, wherever that takes me. I have prayed everyday since I found out we were expecting Madison that God lead me to be a good parent who will lead my children to be good Christians and love God and Jesus with all their hearts. And now more than ever I pray that same prayer because this child was chosen for our family, we already love her so much and it seems so strange that she's not here in our house. There is a void there and we've never even held her. I've said in a previous post how afraid Iam of the trip to China and still am, but now I am so ready to go get her and bring her HOME that the fear of the trip is not nearly the issue it was before! Thanks again to everyone for their love and support! Please keep all of the adopting families in your thoughts and prayers as we now wait for our travel appointments and prepare for the rest of the journey!

WE HAVE A GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-12-07T14:12:00.000-05:00

We got the call this morning at 9:46 A.M. Her name is Bo Cheng, she is from the Jiangxi Province and her birthday is 6-6-07, so she just turned 6 months old yesterday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We are so in love with her already. Zoey Bo Cheng Blaszczynski, our precious angel!

LONGGGGGG DAYYYYYYY!!!!!

2007-12-06T20:26:00.000-05:00

Well Thursday has come and gone and no referral. I have to say that we are very dissappointed, but then again I guess we shouldn't have siked ourselves up to get it today, even though it seems that everyone else logged in on the 12th got theirs. We'll be just as thrilled when we get the call and even more so I think because we've made it through this day of one major roller coaster ride. Poor Madison started bawling crying when she found out she wouldn't get to show her sisters picture off at school on Friday. Oh well, now it is time to try and get some sleep again with major anticipation of tomorrow. Hopefully we'll have news tomorrow!

CCAA Update

2007-12-05T21:55:00.001-05:00

Well, It's Wednesday night December 5, 2007 and the CCAA has updated their website that referrals have been given through 12-14-05, which means hopefully, TOMORROW WE WILL GET OUR REFERRAL. I can't believe it after these past two years it's finally here. Several people we email have gotten theirs already and it has made me cry all afternoon. God is so amazing and His timing perfect. I can't believe in a few hours (hopefully) we'll finally get to see our little girls face! YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just thinking.......and worrying........

2007-11-07T11:29:00.000-05:00

From my blogs and for those of you who personally know me, you can tell we've had quite a bit going on in our household lately, mainly because of me. Between wrecks, major surgery, epideral shots, and a major strep infection (thought to possibly be staph-MRSA THANK GOD IT WASN'T) we've had some downs lately. But the way we are, we've laughed about it really. You just have to find a way to. Vince and I have not always had the best luck, well except the fact that we found each other. But luck aside ,we are soooooo Blessed by God in our lives together. We have a beautiful, smart, fun, and precious daughter who has brought us 7 years of amazing joy. We both have wonderful families, great friends, careers that we enjoy (for the most part), and over the past two years this incredible roller coaster ride of adoption.

Last night I should've been exhausted. I cleaned my house from top to bottom, when I was supposed to be home resting and recooperating, but it HAD to be done. In the midst of my manic activity I started thinking: Am I nesting? You know when you are in the last trimester of your pregnancy and you have these bursts of energy and start feeling like everything in your house needs to be Chloroxed before baby gets here, well I think I am in that mode. Now that I pretty much know we will be getting our referral next batch, I am freaking out! I don't know how to be a parent to "children". I wonder now how I will get things done between work, housework, homework, skating, etc. How will a baby fit into all of this? I know I felt this way when I was pregnant with Madison: How will I handle this and pay for daycare and clothes and groceries and get everything done that needs to be done? What have I done?-I even asked myself a few times. Of course all was fine, we easily fell into the parenting thing and I am sure that will happen again, but this time I have to fly to the other side of the world! That scares me to death! I get very very anxious of the unknown. Even if it's just visiting a new church, or going to a party where we only know one other couple, I get very uncomfortable. Going to a whole other country, that's HUGE! Everyone I know who has already traveled has given us great advice, and I shouldn't be so worried, we will probably be well more prepared than most people because we have such great friends who've been there to help us. But now that I know we will be traveling in the next few month, I am scared. I have so much to do and will be doing most of it during the holidays, which is hectic enough as it is. If I seem a little nuts, well more so than usual, please just bare with me! I'll be back to normal one of these days! I still can't believe I get to see my sweet baby's face in a matter of a few weeks!!!!!!!!!!! Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Finally!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you God! You chose us for the journey, why I am not sure, but we are so glad that you did and look forward to it's continuation!

Halloween!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-07T10:54:00.000-05:00

I had never been one to want to dress for Halloween as an adult, but I have a husband who still likes to be as silly as a child and I have to admit it makes life fun. So starting about 3 years ago we began dressing up for Halloween. At that time we were the Spartan Cheerleaders from Saturday Night Live and Madison was Hilary Duff. Last year Madison was Dorothy of OZ, Vince was a man riding an Ostrich (which he wore to the dinnertable at Thanksgiving at my parent's house last year), and I was a Greek Goddess (hahaha). I wanted us all to be something that went together this year, but I was out-voted! Vince always wants to find the most ridiculous, crazy, goofball costume possible, but I wouldn't want him to be any other way. He makes me laugh hysterically everyday!And this year.... well, I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. Nice Passy! He stole it out of Zoey's room. What was so funny was watching him try to get into this thing!WONDER WOMAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Madison, by the way, is Hannah Montana, but decided she didn't want to wear the wig.

It's not a real microphone she's holding, but I promise you she's really singing, and loudly at that!
Hope everyone had a fun Happy Halloween!

CCAA Update

2007-11-05T12:05:00.000-05:00

Hello friends, the CCAA updated their website Monday morning. Referrals have been issued for families through December 8, 2005. We are logged in December 12, 2005, so it's looking like December 2007 will be our month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What a fabulous Christmas present to get to see our precious angels face. We can't wait. We will surely let everyone know as soon as we get the call! Happy early Thanksgiving.