Here is the footage from the Mother-Daughter Tea Party from December
And here is a video of the dogs and us outside on the March 1, 2009 snowstorm
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Matt and I were feeling a little festive for St. Patrick's Day! So, we made these little chocolate-nilla wafer-caramel lollipops for his co-workers.
I found the recipe in the February issue of Women's Day Magazine. And, they were so simple to make! Here is the recipe:
pop sickle sticks
semi sweet chocolate chips
caramel square candies
Nabisco Nilla Wafer Cookies
Decorative candies
makes 16 lollipops
directions:
Melt approx. 18 caramel candies according to the pkg directions. Put a dollop of melted caramel onto one nilla wafer cookie. Lay a pop sickle stick thru the middle laying it from top to bottom of the cookie. Top sandwich with another nilla wafer cookie. Let cool. Mean while, melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in micro wave (stir every 20 seconds until melted). Dip cookie sandwich in chocolate until coating all sides. Dip end into candy pieces. Lay on top of wax paper and stick in the freezer until hardened (less than 10 minutes).
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
I am in a women's bible study with the Church we are about to join. The bible study is reading the book "Lord, Change my attitude, before it's too late" by James MacDonald. On page 178 of the book is this poem that touched my heart. And, I knew I wanted to share it with all of you too.
Doubt sees the obstacles.
Faith Sees the way.
Doubt sees the darkest night.
Faith sees the way.
Doubt dreads to take a step.
Faith soars on high.
Doubt questions, "Who believes?"
Faith Answers, "I".
Gospel Banner
Also, on page 168 of the book is a paragraph on "Irrevocable Promises. Let's get on the table some sample promises God has made...
* God has promised to provide for us. Philippians 4:19 says, "My god will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory of Christ Jesus."
* Goad has promised to protect us. Isaiah 54:17 says, "No weapon that is formed against you will prosper...This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord".
* God has also promised to prosper us- though, as some are quick to add, that doesn't necessarily mean financially. But Psalm 84:11 says, "No good thing does He withhold from those WHO walk uprightly." Your life will not lack one single thing that could increase your happiness if you will walk up rightly with the lord.
All three of the above promises, along with hundreds of others, are signed by God Himself. "
Though we are excited to finally have a date to look forwards to (for the adoption) it can be difficult to remember God's bigger picture for our lives. Our story is not yet complete. God is working behind the scenes to provide for us...to protect us... to prosper us. In one of Beth Moore's study she says remember... "God is who is says he is. God does what he says he will do..." Through our journey to parenthood our faith is growing, our faith stretching. Praise God!!
Doubt sees the obstacles.
Faith Sees the way.
Doubt sees the darkest night.
Faith sees the way.
Doubt dreads to take a step.
Faith soars on high.
Doubt questions, "Who believes?"
Faith Answers, "I".
Gospel Banner
Also, on page 168 of the book is a paragraph on "Irrevocable Promises. Let's get on the table some sample promises God has made...
* God has promised to provide for us. Philippians 4:19 says, "My god will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory of Christ Jesus."
* Goad has promised to protect us. Isaiah 54:17 says, "No weapon that is formed against you will prosper...This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord".
* God has also promised to prosper us- though, as some are quick to add, that doesn't necessarily mean financially. But Psalm 84:11 says, "No good thing does He withhold from those WHO walk uprightly." Your life will not lack one single thing that could increase your happiness if you will walk up rightly with the lord.
All three of the above promises, along with hundreds of others, are signed by God Himself. "
Though we are excited to finally have a date to look forwards to (for the adoption) it can be difficult to remember God's bigger picture for our lives. Our story is not yet complete. God is working behind the scenes to provide for us...to protect us... to prosper us. In one of Beth Moore's study she says remember... "God is who is says he is. God does what he says he will do..." Through our journey to parenthood our faith is growing, our faith stretching. Praise God!!
Monday, March 09, 2009
Adoption Update
This morning Matt and I spoke with our adoption agency to touch base regarding our upcoming renewal requirements. Our immigration paperwork is about to expire (for a third time). To renew we will need to do another home study update (back ground checks, physicals, etc.). So, we wanted confirmation from our agency that we were gathering the necessary documents with in a time frame that would keep us from having to re-do everything for a fourth time!! And, it appears we are right on schedule.
The most exciting news from our conversation is that we were given a guesstimate on how much longer we would likely wait until we receive our referral. And, their best guesstimate, based upon the current speed China is matching and the agencies knowledge of how many families are waiting- - MARCH 2010!! We are both thrilled!! Yes, another year to wait for a picture and travel plans. But, we are okay with it because that was what we anticipated (for best case scenario). This means we would travel to China May-June 2010!! Just around the corner!! Lots to do, lots to do!!!
This morning Matt and I spoke with our adoption agency to touch base regarding our upcoming renewal requirements. Our immigration paperwork is about to expire (for a third time). To renew we will need to do another home study update (back ground checks, physicals, etc.). So, we wanted confirmation from our agency that we were gathering the necessary documents with in a time frame that would keep us from having to re-do everything for a fourth time!! And, it appears we are right on schedule.
The most exciting news from our conversation is that we were given a guesstimate on how much longer we would likely wait until we receive our referral. And, their best guesstimate, based upon the current speed China is matching and the agencies knowledge of how many families are waiting- - MARCH 2010!! We are both thrilled!! Yes, another year to wait for a picture and travel plans. But, we are okay with it because that was what we anticipated (for best case scenario). This means we would travel to China May-June 2010!! Just around the corner!! Lots to do, lots to do!!!
Matt heard this quote on TAGG Radio dot com (interview with Roddy Piper) and we had to share. Read through the end, we hope you get a giggle!
Irish Blessing.
To those who love us, may God bless them. And for those who don't may God turn their hearts. And for those whose hearts He cannot turn, may He turn their ankles so we recognize them by their limp
Irish Blessing.
To those who love us, may God bless them. And for those who don't may God turn their hearts. And for those whose hearts He cannot turn, may He turn their ankles so we recognize them by their limp
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Last month we met my (Julia's) father for a photo "contest". Something my sister and I used to do with him when we went on camping trips. I needed tips on how to work the fancy camera so we turned our outing into a game of who can take the better picture. Our subject- a rusted out Clipper. Here are some of the pictures I took from my camera.
The Clipper...
My winning photo:
A cool view:
The Clipper...
My winning photo:
A cool view:
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Adoption Update...
This morning Great Wall Beijing confirmed with the CCAA the cut off date for the last batch of referrals. The CCAA informed us that they have completed the matching process for families with dossiers registered through March 6, 2006.
The cut off date issued by the CCAA is the date through which they were able to match referrals. For example, last month the CCAA’s cut off date was March 2, 2006, so all families with LID’s before and on March 2, 2006 were sent a referral. As for this month, the CCAA’s cut off date was March 6, 2006 so families with LID’s before and on March 6, 2006 were mailed their referral.
Reminder: Our LID is September 18, 2006
This morning Great Wall Beijing confirmed with the CCAA the cut off date for the last batch of referrals. The CCAA informed us that they have completed the matching process for families with dossiers registered through March 6, 2006.
The cut off date issued by the CCAA is the date through which they were able to match referrals. For example, last month the CCAA’s cut off date was March 2, 2006, so all families with LID’s before and on March 2, 2006 were sent a referral. As for this month, the CCAA’s cut off date was March 6, 2006 so families with LID’s before and on March 6, 2006 were mailed their referral.
Reminder: Our LID is September 18, 2006
Sunday, March 01, 2009
SNOW in GA!
Yes, it is SNOWING in GA! We are enjoying the beautiful scenery! Watching the snowfall is very relaxing. Before our satellite TV went out, we heard the forecaster dude say the last time GA had such a large snow was the "Blizzard of '93". All native peaches know about the "Blizzard of '93"!! It was the last significant snow fall we had! The difference in '93 and today is the temperature~ the ground isn't going to be cold enough for any of this white beauty not to melt.
Walking the Chihuahua's in the snow required 3 matches each (have we shared our match trick with you?! It's disgusting, but it works! All dog owners need to know how to force your pet to do his/her business in a hurry or in inclement weather! HAHAH!). Aren't they cute huddled up together? They do NOT like the cold, wet ground. Here they are begging us to let them back inside...
Yes, it is SNOWING in GA! We are enjoying the beautiful scenery! Watching the snowfall is very relaxing. Before our satellite TV went out, we heard the forecaster dude say the last time GA had such a large snow was the "Blizzard of '93". All native peaches know about the "Blizzard of '93"!! It was the last significant snow fall we had! The difference in '93 and today is the temperature~ the ground isn't going to be cold enough for any of this white beauty not to melt.
Walking the Chihuahua's in the snow required 3 matches each (have we shared our match trick with you?! It's disgusting, but it works! All dog owners need to know how to force your pet to do his/her business in a hurry or in inclement weather! HAHAH!). Aren't they cute huddled up together? They do NOT like the cold, wet ground. Here they are begging us to let them back inside...
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Hello All!! Matt and I have been very busy this year...we apologize for not posting more to our blog! We hope 2009 has gotten off to a good start for you too!
Recently we went on a long weekend to Helen, GA. We celebrated Valentine's Day in "OUR" cabin- where we got engaged 11 years ago! Other than a few new pieces of furniture, not much has changed for our cabin. This year was very special because, like 11 years ago, there was a Friday the 13th the day before VDay. Matt actually proposed on Friday the 13th (the day before hearts day- he couldn't wait one more day)! Thus, we celebrate EVERY Friday 13th since.
My Father has been assisting me in re-learning my fancy Nikon film camera. Film sure takes a better pic but it takes a little more effort to get developed. I FINALLY got all my film pictures developed and put on CD's of our trip to share with everyone here on our blog! We hope you enjoy! :)
Matt, the Three Amigos, outside "OUR" cabin...
Nacho & Fat Momma (Sierra)...
Beautiful Penny...
And a few pictures along one of our walks around the compound...(here I'm playing with black and white film; or, I should say, I'm trying to use up the black and white film)
I love this picture...
more to share a little later, off to eat some grub...
Recently we went on a long weekend to Helen, GA. We celebrated Valentine's Day in "OUR" cabin- where we got engaged 11 years ago! Other than a few new pieces of furniture, not much has changed for our cabin. This year was very special because, like 11 years ago, there was a Friday the 13th the day before VDay. Matt actually proposed on Friday the 13th (the day before hearts day- he couldn't wait one more day)! Thus, we celebrate EVERY Friday 13th since.
My Father has been assisting me in re-learning my fancy Nikon film camera. Film sure takes a better pic but it takes a little more effort to get developed. I FINALLY got all my film pictures developed and put on CD's of our trip to share with everyone here on our blog! We hope you enjoy! :)
Matt, the Three Amigos, outside "OUR" cabin...
Nacho & Fat Momma (Sierra)...
Beautiful Penny...
And a few pictures along one of our walks around the compound...(here I'm playing with black and white film; or, I should say, I'm trying to use up the black and white film)
I love this picture...
more to share a little later, off to eat some grub...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
I came across this on someone else's blog and I HAD to share it with all of you!
You Might Be Adopting from China if...
...you know that I-600 & I-171 aren't highways.
...you've been expecting a baby for over 3 years.
...you understand that it's 2006 in some parts of the world.
...you've "paid for" 3 citizenships, but never brought anyone into the U.S.
...you know that waiting for China has nothing to do with Dillards or dishes.
...your homestudy is followed by a number (i.e. #3 or #4).
...you never know how many days next month will have.
...you know that babies come in batches.
...you've been fingerprinted four times, but never committed a crime.
...you automatically assume everyone who is expecting is having a girl.
...you own new clothing in 3 little sizes for all 4 seasons (because you don't know when or how big).
...you look twice when you see a lady bug.
...you're more interested in what will happen in March 2006 than in March 2009.
...you know people who understand when you talk about 2 day months & 5 day months.
...your due date hasn't changed by days, but by years.
...you know who the Rumor Queen is...AND...you don't know who she is.
...you know that forecast doesn't have anything to do with the weather.
...you've waited so long, they re-checked your fingerprints to see if they changed.
...trying to understand why they're printing you again, you study your own fingerprints and wonder if fingerprints grow wrinkles.
...when you speak of "that time of the month" you're talking about CCAA updates & referrals.
You might be adopting from China if you love someone you've never met with all your heart.
by: Margaret Leigh
You Might Be Adopting from China if...
...you know that I-600 & I-171 aren't highways.
...you've been expecting a baby for over 3 years.
...you understand that it's 2006 in some parts of the world.
...you've "paid for" 3 citizenships, but never brought anyone into the U.S.
...you know that waiting for China has nothing to do with Dillards or dishes.
...your homestudy is followed by a number (i.e. #3 or #4).
...you never know how many days next month will have.
...you know that babies come in batches.
...you've been fingerprinted four times, but never committed a crime.
...you automatically assume everyone who is expecting is having a girl.
...you own new clothing in 3 little sizes for all 4 seasons (because you don't know when or how big).
...you look twice when you see a lady bug.
...you're more interested in what will happen in March 2006 than in March 2009.
...you know people who understand when you talk about 2 day months & 5 day months.
...your due date hasn't changed by days, but by years.
...you know who the Rumor Queen is...AND...you don't know who she is.
...you know that forecast doesn't have anything to do with the weather.
...you've waited so long, they re-checked your fingerprints to see if they changed.
...trying to understand why they're printing you again, you study your own fingerprints and wonder if fingerprints grow wrinkles.
...when you speak of "that time of the month" you're talking about CCAA updates & referrals.
You might be adopting from China if you love someone you've never met with all your heart.
by: Margaret Leigh
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
This is a post from Matt. Just something to pass along to anyone who is interested---one of my goals for 2009 is that by the end of the year I want to test for my blue belt (second level) in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. To that end, I have set up a blog to chronicle my training, my aches and pains, ad my thoughts as I progress toward the goal. My training blog can be viewed here
Sunday, December 21, 2008
3 Doors Down...
Last night we went to the Three Doors Down / Switchfoot concert at the Gwinnett Arena! It was so much fun! Very loud and Great music. Also, there were two other openers- American Devils (a local Atlanta rock band) & American Bang. We were not familiar with either but enjoyed listening & watching the fun.
A few Switchfoot hits they sang: "I dare you to move", "Learning to Breathe", "Don't close your eyes" And, the headliner 3 Doors Down played these hits: "It's not my time", "Kryptonite", "Citizen Soldier" & "Loser" (just to name a few). Our ears were ringing at the end of the concert, they played pretty loud. We noticed the crowd was mixed with all age groups; there were a lot of families with young teenagers and a parent.
Through out the venue, the National Guard was out with photo opps. They gave us a card which we could use to redeem free photos online after the concert. I've never seen this before, a great promotional opp for the NG. Our friends Connie & Gerald were familiar with the photo deals from their nascar days. But, to us it was new and we enjoyed taking advantage of the pictures~ can't wait to scrapbook these pics!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Thanksgiving Day Marathon...
Yes, I realize I am behind on posting these pictures! But, I am so proud of Matt and I want to share his accomplishment with everyone. He trained very hard for 6+months and Thanksgiving day he succeeded in running 13.1 miles under 3 hours!
Waiting on his arrival to the finish line I managed to keep my camera focused to capture the moment he crossed! I had elbowed my way into the perfect position. Luckily I did not miss the moment- there were so many other runners I was afraid he would run right past me and I wouldn't get the picture.
For finishing the race everyone received a blue ribbon medal. Here Matt is catching his breath & proudly wearing his well deserved medal! The finish line was in front of Turner Field. And, this is also the location to the Atlanta "Hosea Feed the Hungry"... that line went around the entire stadium!
I was amused & amazed by all the runners...more than a few were running in pilgrim costumes, turkey costumes and the ARMY had representation with a bunch of men running in fatigues, carrying the American Flag. Shortly behind them crossed another group of men running in full uniform (backpacks, combat boots, etc.)! The crowd watching cheered them on with gusto!
Matt wore his "3M's" hat (the 3 Marvelous Miller Milers)- representing our family team (Matt, Ed & Julia). And, he is already planning on running again next Thanksgiving! Run Strong!
Yes, I realize I am behind on posting these pictures! But, I am so proud of Matt and I want to share his accomplishment with everyone. He trained very hard for 6+months and Thanksgiving day he succeeded in running 13.1 miles under 3 hours!
Waiting on his arrival to the finish line I managed to keep my camera focused to capture the moment he crossed! I had elbowed my way into the perfect position. Luckily I did not miss the moment- there were so many other runners I was afraid he would run right past me and I wouldn't get the picture.
For finishing the race everyone received a blue ribbon medal. Here Matt is catching his breath & proudly wearing his well deserved medal! The finish line was in front of Turner Field. And, this is also the location to the Atlanta "Hosea Feed the Hungry"... that line went around the entire stadium!
I was amused & amazed by all the runners...more than a few were running in pilgrim costumes, turkey costumes and the ARMY had representation with a bunch of men running in fatigues, carrying the American Flag. Shortly behind them crossed another group of men running in full uniform (backpacks, combat boots, etc.)! The crowd watching cheered them on with gusto!
Matt wore his "3M's" hat (the 3 Marvelous Miller Milers)- representing our family team (Matt, Ed & Julia). And, he is already planning on running again next Thanksgiving! Run Strong!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tortola
The #1 reason why I (Julia) wanted to take this particular cruise itenerary was because it included a port with a Dolphin Excursion. Needless to say, this was a very special day neither of us will forget. Our Dolphins name was Elektra (with a "K"). She is between the ages of 13-15. We were in a group of
Matt Dancing with Elektra. This movement for Elektra was not easy. As she stood up in the water she was ferociously peddling with her tail fins. She worked hard to stand up like this.
Julia Dancing with Elektra. Okay, this is a horrible picture of Julia, but a very honest moment captured by the photographer. While Elektra is working hard she is also slightly moving backwards and she was pulling me off the platform and out to sea (which scared me).
Julia getting a kiss...
Matt getting kissed...
The #1 reason why I (Julia) wanted to take this particular cruise itenerary was because it included a port with a Dolphin Excursion. Needless to say, this was a very special day neither of us will forget. Our Dolphins name was Elektra (with a "K"). She is between the ages of 13-15. We were in a group of
Matt Dancing with Elektra. This movement for Elektra was not easy. As she stood up in the water she was ferociously peddling with her tail fins. She worked hard to stand up like this.
Julia Dancing with Elektra. Okay, this is a horrible picture of Julia, but a very honest moment captured by the photographer. While Elektra is working hard she is also slightly moving backwards and she was pulling me off the platform and out to sea (which scared me).
Julia getting a kiss...
Matt getting kissed...
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
St. Thomas "The Ultimate Island Tour" Excursion
The view from our boat...
This excursion took us to the very top of the island and everything in between. The views were beautiful and the shopping was fantastic! This pic is on "Mountain Top" where you can see most of the surrounding islands. While there we had our pic taken with the St. Thomas Donkey- He/she was decorated to the hilt and was quite cute!
And, the view with Megan's Bay (National Geographic top 10 beaches. Legend has it if you are married on the beach then your marriage will last the test of time. Also, the top of the beach sands is in the shape of a heart, unfortunately we were not able to get that angle but we did see the heart along the way...
The view of our boat (the one on the far right). Luckily there was only one other boat in port this day. Others before us have said St. Thomas can get VERY crowded when mulitple cruise lines are in port.
The view from our boat...
This excursion took us to the very top of the island and everything in between. The views were beautiful and the shopping was fantastic! This pic is on "Mountain Top" where you can see most of the surrounding islands. While there we had our pic taken with the St. Thomas Donkey- He/she was decorated to the hilt and was quite cute!
And, the view with Megan's Bay (National Geographic top 10 beaches. Legend has it if you are married on the beach then your marriage will last the test of time. Also, the top of the beach sands is in the shape of a heart, unfortunately we were not able to get that angle but we did see the heart along the way...
The view of our boat (the one on the far right). Luckily there was only one other boat in port this day. Others before us have said St. Thomas can get VERY crowded when mulitple cruise lines are in port.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Our First stop was Samana. These cream dogs where all over town. There were a few other color dogs but mainly this dog seemed everywhere! Same color & about the same size.
For the most part, this is a typical home. Most doors where wide open & you could see straight through the house. Aside from kitchen tables, not much else appeared to be inside. The typical family in Samana are 18 children!! All, sleep & live in these homes.
To bring good luck to their home, locals decorate trees with egg shells.
During our "Safari Adventure" excursion, local children walked with us to a popular watering hole.
At the end of our unstable, rocky hike was a beautiful waterfall. One of the older children climbed the limbs of a nearby tree and jumped into the water! It was very scary to watch because the waterfall was not very big and the water certainly did not look deep enough to jump into. However, the guide assured us the depth the child was jumping into was over 8 feet deep & the children "do it all the time".
For the most part, this is a typical home. Most doors where wide open & you could see straight through the house. Aside from kitchen tables, not much else appeared to be inside. The typical family in Samana are 18 children!! All, sleep & live in these homes.
To bring good luck to their home, locals decorate trees with egg shells.
During our "Safari Adventure" excursion, local children walked with us to a popular watering hole.
At the end of our unstable, rocky hike was a beautiful waterfall. One of the older children climbed the limbs of a nearby tree and jumped into the water! It was very scary to watch because the waterfall was not very big and the water certainly did not look deep enough to jump into. However, the guide assured us the depth the child was jumping into was over 8 feet deep & the children "do it all the time".
Saturday, November 22, 2008
We made it home safely! What a wonderful vacation we had on MS Norwegian Dawn! We are still in the process of unpacking and uploading pictures. I thought I would share two beautiful views we enjoyed on our plane ride home yesterday.
approximately 12:30 PM, Miami
approximately 2:00 PM, Atlanta, What a beautiful site she is!
I will attempt to upload a few more pics from our trip soon.
approximately 12:30 PM, Miami
approximately 2:00 PM, Atlanta, What a beautiful site she is!
I will attempt to upload a few more pics from our trip soon.
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