Herpin Family

Feliz Navidad

2011-12-21T15:39:00.000-05:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Tru's 6th Birthday

2011-11-12T20:29:00.000-05:00

Tru turned 6 today! He was so excited that it was finally his birthday!!

Tru chose Don Pablo's for his birthday lunch. We tried to tell him that he looked very handsome in the sombrero but he wanted no part of it.

The crew sang Happy Birthday. He was half excited and half scared!

Happy Birthday Big Boy!

4th Grade & Kindergarten

2011-08-31T15:01:00.001-04:00

FINALLY, after a two day delay (thanks to Hurricane Irene), the kids started school today.

Here are our 4th Grader and Kindergartner waiting for the school bus.

How wonderful to finally have them both at the same school!

Our Big Girl!

Our Big Boy!

The Kindergarten parents were allowed to visit the classroom for a while. Of course there were lots of children very curious about Tru's "robot" leg. Tru's teacher allowed me to give all of the children a brief kid-friendly talk about Tru's leg, why he has it and why they should not touch it.
(We would not want them to have their hands on his leg and then get their fingers pinched if Tru were to bend his knee.) (Ouch! We know this from personal experience!!)

Tru was just fine when Mom left and wanted to know why many of the other children were crying.

I could not resist sneaking by Lin-Ley's classroom too. She was much too busy to mind my visit. She was so excited to finally get back to school!

A special Thank You to Auntie Gabby. I forgot my camera this morning and my only other option, so that I would not miss the First Day of School photos, was to use the camera on my phone. I do not have a "fancy" phone and had no way to get the photos from my phone so I texted them to Gabby, she emailed them to me, I downloaded them to my computer and then uploaded them to the post. Thanks Gabby! You saved the day!

4 Years Of Tru Love

2011-07-30T21:12:00.001-04:00

July 29, 2007.
China.
Our first night together.
All frowns.
No eye contact.

July 30, 2007
China.
Our second day together.
All frowns.
Piercing Eyes.

July 31, 2007.
China.
Our third day together.
There is that smile!

July 29, 2008
One year later.

July 30, 2009
Two years later.

July 29, 2010
Three years later.

July 31, 2007
China.
This is the pink cup that finally made Tru smile.

July 30, 2011
Four years later.
We still have the pink cup. It is a family treasure!

Love You Tru-Tru!!

8th Annual China Girl Reunion

2011-07-14T09:53:00.000-04:00

Road trip! Last weekend was our 8th Annual China Girl Reunion in Upstate New York. Of the thirteen families we traveled with to China in 2003 we had seven China Girls in attendance this year.
Dallas could not make the trip this year due to a scheduling conflict at his office. It was just mom and the kids.

Needing a break from driving we pulled into a rest area and I told the kids to run around and get some exercise. Lin-Ley took that quite literally and began doing jumping jacks.

And this is what Tru thought about that.
I know what you are thinking, and yes, Tru picks out all of his own accessories. Mardi Gras beads go with every outfit!

Once we f-i-n-a-l-l-y arrived in New York we had a short rest at the hotel before Friday Night Dinner. Here are the China Girls and siblings:
Claire, Maria, Mia, Tru, Julia, May, Lin-Ley, Lana, Quinn and Sara.

Tru and Maria really hit it off at dinner. Oh so cute! Tru has invited Maria to his birthday party in November.

May drew a picture of the girls entitled "Girls At Travel Reunion Group Dinner 2011".
She was very precise as her drawing reflects the actual wardrobe worn by each of the girls.

And another picture entitled "And The Little Ones Too" which included the siblings.
Again May was very precise. Check out Tru's right leg.

Excellent job May!!

As the girls are getting older now we (the parents) made sure we had more activities available for them. Nina brought along the paint and lots of paper. However the girls decided to paint the rocks instead.
We were really prepared with games and activities but the kids still most enjoyed playing in the sand. That was fine with us because the parents love to sit under the pavilion watching the kids bond together again like no time has passed. Love that!

Time to hit the beach.

Tru and his girl Maria.

Lin-Ley and Lily collecting shells.

We always celebrate the girls' collective birthdays with a big cake.

Good cake!

Time for pictures. These kids know the drill!

Here are all of the children in attendance:
Maria, Quinn, Claire, May, Julia, Lakin, Lily, Sara, Mia, Lin-Ley, Caden, Lana, & Tru.

Here are the Spicy Hunan Girls (lined up according to height):
Lin-Ley, Quinn, May, Julia, Lily, Mia, Sara

Family Photo.

After the grueling photo session the kids wanted more time at the park's expanded play area.

Lily and Lin-Ley.

Fearless Tru.

The big kids swung the little kids on a disc swing.

Once we cleaned up our pavilion most families came back to our hotel for a swimming and pizza party. Then it was time for good-byes.

At 6AM the next morning the kids were having their annual luggage cart ride as we prepared to leave.

Hugs to all of our China family. We can not wait to see you all again!

Happy 9th Birthday Lin-Ley

2011-07-05T11:13:00.001-04:00

We have been celebrating Lin-Ley's 9th birthday sine June 23rd. I took the day off and took Lin-Ley to the movies, to lunch, shopping and then to chose her own birthday cake. Then Dallas was off the next day to take her for a walk in the woods and they spents lots of time collecting worms (a new hobby around our house).

Her presents included a new princess gown and the Chronicles of Narnia book set.

Once we gave her the books we did not hear much from her for many hours. She made her way through the first three books between the birthday cake and bed time.

Time for bed with her new pillow pet unicorn named MayBelle.

More worms.

Lin-Ley dared Tru to lick a worm. And he did it! More than once!!

Clowning around.

Lin-Ley grabbed the sidewalk chalk and went out to the drive way. Later, she called me out to see what she had made. Wow!

The artist and her apprentice.

To wrap up the birthday festivities we treated Lin-Ley (and the whole family) to theater tickets to see Wicked at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
The kids eagerly awaiting our Metro train.

So here she is, Lin-Ley the Lovely Witch. She loved the show and we have been discussing every minute detail and the way it connects with the Wizard of Oz movie. Love it!

Happy Birthday Big Girl!!

小兔子 - Our Latest Temporary Pet

2011-06-02T20:27:00.000-04:00

Meet 小兔子.
Translation: Little Rabbit.
(That was his/her official name during the 45 minutes we had it.)

Dallas discovered this baby bunny all alone nibbling on his garden. He and Lin-Ley were soon bringing it up to our bedroom in a butterfly net for my inspection.

Of course, "Can we keep it?" came up several times.

小兔子 was released (unharmed) (and quite loved already) near a nice grassy, wooded area. There are carrots waiting in case he/she decides to visit again. However, Dallas warns that 小兔子 should not visit his garden again....

Tooth Fairy Double Whammy

2011-06-01T22:20:00.001-04:00

It all started with an apple....
Lin-Ley has had a loose front, top tooth for weeks and weeks. She refuses to let me pull it. This morning on the way to school she was eating an apple and I heard a "crack". She was silent for a few moments then announced that her tooth was very loose. Later, upon inspection, I discovered it was her bottom tooth that had not even been loose before the apple did its magic.
Tru discovered his first loose tooth last weekend. He has been excited but was not considering letting me pull it. Until tonight....

Two kids, two teeth, double the loot.

Lin-Ley went first and bravely allowed me to pull her tooth so that Tru could see that it "does not hurt". She was genuinely excited (and surprised) when it finally popped out.
Tru was not having anything to do with it! After some "the Tooth Fairy will come tonight" coaxing he finally opened his mouth. After three attempts the tooth was out. Then we howled and cried for ten minutes afterward because of the residual blood.

Here is Tru's cute little mouth with its first missing tooth.

Lin-Ley wrote notes for each of them to leave for the Tooth Fairy. She wrote Tru's note and had him sign his name to it.

Not only did she write notes but she left an extra piece of paper with each one so that the Tooth Fairy would write a note back to them!

Not to be outdone, Five-O recently lost a tooth as well.

Of course, for some reason, we still have her tooth too.

Lin-Ley wrote this note to the Tooth Fairy on Five-O's behalf. A few days later the Tooth Fairy found time to stop by our house and leave Five-O a new dog toy. The kids were thrilled to learn that the Tooth Fairy made stops for dogs too.

Speaking of teeth... In February I chaperoned a field trip with Tru's school to the National Museum of Dentistry in Baltimore.
There, to my surprise, was President George Washington's teeth. That's right, the teeth of the first president of the United States. And here they are:

Note: George Washington's teeth were NOT wooden. They were made out of rhino and elephant ivory.
Did you know?
When George Washington became our president he only had one tooth in his mouth.
When he left office he had a mouth full of teeth. (See above.)

And now you know....

Memorial Day Weekend 2011

2011-06-01T21:35:00.000-04:00

Oh, a blessed three day weekend. With no plans or engagements. Literally nothing planned. How long has it been?

The holiday was in full force right after school on Friday.

There was swinging,

then everyone got a ride on the John Deere.

On Saturday it was time to garden.

Getting as dirty as possible is a must for our kids.

The potatoes were growing quite nicely so they decided to plant sweet potatoes as well.

Then, in the sweltering heat, there were many races across the field,

as well as other games such as Hula Hoop Toss.

To get everyone cooled down Dallas cut a cold, sweet watermelon.

On Sunday we even got a break from Chinese School so Tru had some time to work on his basketball skills.

Somehow, between all the fun, Lin-Ley managed to read seventeen books over the long weekend.

Unfortunately, Dallas had to work on Memorial Day. So, the kids and I had to find something fun do. I took them to Toys R Us to spend some gifts cards they had received at Christmas. As we were about the leave the kids pointing out our "swarm of bees". When I looked over toward our cherry tree (which is scheduled to be removed soon) I saw the swarm. It was not bees but what was it? It was coming out of the damaged branch that looks as if it will fall any day. I wanted Dallas to see the activity so I took a quick video. I am not sure how long this lasted but the kids and I watched it for at least ten minutes.

Note Of The Day

2011-04-29T12:27:00.000-04:00

Lin-Ley is a note giver. She is always leaving notes for us. This was her Easter note to Dallas and myself. She is just beginning to learn script and she obviously needs some practice but she is very proud of her early efforts.

Dear Lin-Ley,
Ditto!
Mom and Dad

Quote Of The Day

2011-04-28T16:22:00.000-04:00

Yesterday evening, just before Tru's Occupational Therapy session was to begin:

Tru: "Ohhhhhhh, I love you Mom. You are the best!"
Jody: "I love you too!"

About 30 seconds later:
Tru: "Thanks Mom."
Jody: "For what?"
Tru: "For loving me."

Happy Easter 2011

2011-04-26T12:07:00.003-04:00

We arrived home Saturday evening after visiting Louisiana for the past nine days. It was time to prepare for the Easter Bunny!

Lin-Ley and I prepared the Fred plate for the bunny. His treats were grass hair, dandelion mustache and earrings (?) and a carrot beard.

And the Easter Bunny delivered.

At church the kids present three songs. The church filled quickly so we did not get a great seat from which we could take pictures and video.

Lin-Ley did not have any smiles for the camera as on her way into the sanctuary she fell and scraped her leg and foot. Luckily, she maintained a "the show must go on" attitude about it. Afterward there were band aids and kisses.

It was hard to get a good view of Tru. We managed to get peeks of him when the folks in front of us moved their heads at just the right angle.

After the church services and before the Easter Egg Hunt, there were more songs and a special Easter message just for the kids.

Then the egg hunt was on. Lin-Ley ran for the eggs with her friends Mercy and Janet. There was really no need to run because all of the children got to collect and take home ten eggs each.
It must be the excitement of the hunt.

Tru was searching hard but was not having much luck.

The boys.

Dallas works on Sundays but took Easter Sunday off to attend church services as a family.

HAPPY EASTER!!

Tru's New Leg (#4) !

2011-03-13T21:10:00.002-04:00

Eight months after Tru received his third prosthetic leg he was being casted for his fourth leg. In this photo he is being fitted with his newest leg. We were not able to take it home that day as it needed more adjustments.

So off to Disney World we went.

Two days before Christmas Tru's fourth leg was delivered.

It always takes him a few minutes to warm up to the newest leg.

Take a look at that clean, unmarked little foot. That would not last long!

Off with the old, on with the new.

Needed some work on the knee alignment.

Tru is always thrilled and fascinated when Mrs. Angie makes adjustments without removing the prosthetic leg.

After a few test walks and more adjustments we went home with leg #4.

Just a few days later we were back for some more adjustments.

Two weeks later we visited with the crew of doctors at the Limb Deficiency Clinic at Kennedy Krieger Hospital. It happened to be a school snow day so Lin-Ley came along.

Tru charmed and impressed as usual.

Just this week we had to go see Mrs. Angie again to be fitted for a new, larger prosthetic foot.
So what does Tru do when Mrs. Angie takes his leg to the shop for adjustments? Hop of course!

Here is the Leg family to date. Tru has named them Baby Leg, Sister Leg, Mommy Leg and Daddy Leg.
It is very important to Tru that the legs all sleep together each night.

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
By: Tru

We have always referred to Tru's left foot as the "good foot" and his right foot as the "new foot". Recently, when attempting to put on his shoes, he asked me to tell him which shoe went on which foot. I told him, "This shoe goes on your good foot."
Then he replied,
"Oh! So, this shoe goes on my naughty foot!"

See Tru's progress through these past entries:
Tru's First Steps
Tru's New Leg (#2) !
Tru's New leg (#3) !

Happy Gotcha Day Lin-Ley!

2011-03-02T21:54:00.002-05:00

It was eight years ago...
Dallas and I began our trip to China on Feb. 28, 2003.
We had no sleep for around 36 hours.
Finally, we arrived at our hotel in Changsha on March 2, 2003 ready to drop from exhaustion.
To our surprise our baby girl was waiting for us at the hotel.
Dallas spotted her as soon as we entered the lobby.
We rushed to our room, dropped off our luggage and reported to the banquet room where we received our bundle of joy.

Happy Gotcha Day Lin-Ley!

We L-O-V-E you!!

Five-O's New Tricks

2011-01-27T16:59:00.004-05:00

Dallas made it into work today (although he should not have) but the kids and I have been "snowed in". We all stayed in our pj's, watched movies, and had a few snacks. As you will see Lin-Ley chose to accessorize her pj's with a fashionable winter scarf.
Lin-Ley took this opportunity to work with Five-O. Dallas and Lin-Ley have been introducing one new trick a week. This is what she has mastered to date:

So cute!

Snow Day Tomorrow

2011-01-26T17:43:00.000-05:00

We woke this morning to two inches of snow.
Lin-Ley's school was closed and Tru's school was open until 4PM.
Lin-Ley and I went into my office for a while and then picked up Tru.

On the way home it began snowing again. It is a driving wet snow.

We are expecting five to eight more inches tonight!

The roads are already bad as we had to encourage Rocket (our van) up some of the hills near our home.

Upon his arrival at home Dallas told the kids to bundle up and they were soon loading onto the sled.

Five-O got a ride as well.

Trying to catch snowflakes.
Even Five-O's mouth is open.

It is always a good time to swing on the tree rope.

The snow was so wet and driving so hard that ten minutes was as long as the kids (and Dallas) could take it.

Let it snow!

Lin-Ley The Equestrian

2011-01-12T21:35:00.000-05:00

During her winter break, Lin-Ley attended horse riding camp. This was her first experience with horses and she is now absolutely in love with them!

I took a break from work to see her horse riding skills. She was never without a huge smile!

Within minutes of my arrival she and her horse, Harley, were showing off some new tricks:

Then they started riding backwards! Lin-Ley was holding on for dear life. She was smiling but she was scared!

Look at that smile!

All done riding.

Taking Harley back to the stables.

I also met Gremlin...

and Navajo.

I wonder if Lin-Ley enjoyed horse riding camp...

The smile says it all!

Quote Of The Day:
by Lin-Ley
"When I grow up I'm going to be a horse rider. And a vet. Or maybe a spy. Maybe I will be a vet AND a spy."

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T22:12:00.007-05:00

We began Christmas Eve early with two batches of cookies. Oatmeal raisin chocolate chip and pumpkin spice.

After the baking we got dressed and went to the movies. We saw Yogi Bear (silly!).

After our return home there was some pretend napping going on. The "napping" was near the Christmas tree so that the "nappers" could snoop through the gifts.

Aunt Diane and Uncle Ted sent us another gingerbread house this year. Actually this year it was a ski lodge.

This is the before shot.

After sharing the lodge with our church friends at the Christmas Eve program...

this is the after shot. I can not watch the chaos but I know the kids have a wonderful time dismantling the house each year.

Then it was back home to get ready for Santa.

We left Santa's goodies on the Fred Plate this year. The goodies included carrot hair, cookie ears and a chocolate covered raisins beard.

Lin-Ley also left Santa a note of reminders. We tried to tell her it was too late to make any changes but she insisted.
Just for the record Mommy wanted a jet booster for our well so that we would have better water pressure.

Posing for a few more photos before bed. (And snooping once more through the presents from Mommy and Daddy, the grandparents and aunts, uncles and cousins.)

Jacob made his final appearance for the year. As soon as the kids went to bed Jacob made his way back to the North Pole to report to Santa.

Santa delivered his gifts. As usual, in our family, Santa delivers only three gifts to each of the kids. Lin-Ley requested Furr Real friends and cowgirl boots. Santa threw in a rainbow maker as well.

Although there are many other gifts under the tree, Santa's gifts (even though he only leaves three) always make the biggest impact.

Tru did not have any requests this year other than a video game. Santa brought him a marble maze, Light Bright and of course a Leapster video game.

Note To Santa:
Dear Santa,
When the box says assembly required please investigate further. Your helpers did not appreciate finding out (at 10PM on Christmas Eve) that the marble maze instructions (located inside the box) stated that the assembly may take 4 -6 hours!
Love,
Mommy

Christmas morning began around 7AM and the kids were thrilled. Even Five-O enjoyed opening her gifts.

Tru loved his video game.

The marble maze (which took a record 2.5 hours to assemble) was a huge hit!

Today, at church, Lin-Ley and all of the 1st-7th grade children sang during the Adult Worship Service.
Lin-Ley is in the second row, center with a red top.

Mercy and Lin-Ley at rehearsal.

Because Dallas has to work on Sundays I taped their performance:

Always ready for a photo opportunity.

Our little Christmas Angel.

A FEW MORE CHRISTMAS PHOTOS FROM DISNEY WORLD:

Christmas Weekend Quotes:

* Christmas Eve -
Tru: "Do you hear that sound?"
Dallas, Jody and Lin-Ley: "No."
Tru: "Do you hear it now?"
Dallas, Jody and Lin-Ley: "No."
Tru: "Oh. It must be God calling me."

*Christmas Morning -
Tru opens a gift (a game) from Mommy and Daddy, looks at Mommy and says,
"Oh, I never wanted this game. You can have it back."

*Bathtime Revelation -
Lin-Ley: "Mom, I decided what I am going to do when I get into college!"
Jody (thinking she had made a career decision): "What?"
Lin-Ley: "I am going to get my ears pierced!"

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Our Christmas Elf Dance

2010-12-22T12:27:00.002-05:00

Disney World 2010 - Part 3

2010-12-20T10:58:00.002-05:00

Day 4 - Hollywood Studios

After riding the Tower of Terror the kids were recruited into the Plastic Soldier Army. They were marched about and drilled. Tru was not thrilled and just kept looking at me the whole time.

While waiting for Dallas and Lin-Ley, along with friends Lily, Nancy, Hunter and Cadin, to ride Tower of Terror again Tru was approached by this little vixen. The little girl walked right over to Tru, grabbed his hand, and began chatting him up. Tru was not completely opposed to the blossoming relationship....

Cute!

During the Block Party Lin-Ley, Lily and Cadin showed off their dance moves with Jessie. Lin-Ley was thrilled with having Jessie so close as she was wearing her Jessie shirt that day.

The primary reason that this trip to Disney was planned was to spend time with the families we traveled with to China in 2003 (for Lin-Ley's adoption). After much planning, unfortunately, there were only two girls in attendance. Lin-Ley and Lily enjoyed spending the whole day at Hollywood Studios together. Tru did too!

There was much posing going on! These girls know what to do when they see a camera!!

Our evening together ending with "Fantasmic" and the "Osbourne Family Lights".
Here are Lily, Nancy, Heather, Lin-Ley and a glimpse of Hunter.

Then it was back to reality the next day. Lin-Ley catches up on her homework while at the airport.

The kids had a great time despite the weather. Tru was especially excited that he measured up and was tall enough to ride most of the rides this time. He LOVED the roller coasters and especially loved when the cast members requested to measure him before allowing him to enter the lines to the rides. Tru happily hopped over the measuring stick and announced, "I'm bigger now!", smiled and ran to get in line.
Lin-Ley LOVED having the day together with Lily. They both enjoyed each other's company and it was heart warming to see them walking together hand in hand. They certainly share a strong bond which we all hope they will keep forever (along with the other 13 girls in our travel group).

To our China Family who could not make the trip - We missed you!!

Disney World 2010 - Part 2

2010-12-19T17:58:00.002-05:00

Day 2 - EPCOT

We spent some time with Nemo, Dory and Crush...

and Bruce.

We found Marie in France.

While Mommy waited in line to see Mulan the rest of the crew soaked up some warm sun.

Mulan.

We had dinner with the Princesses. Here are Pocahontas and Woody posing with Belle.

Sleeping Beauty came by our table,

then Snow White,

Cinderella,

and Ariel.

Later there was a Princess Procession and all little princesses and princes were invited to join as they paraded throughout the banquet hall. First, Ariel schooled the princesses on the proper way to wave.

Pocahontas returned from her Princess Parade.

Day 3 - Animal Kingdom.

Lin-Ley was very pleased to see two of her favorite animals - giraffes

and flamingos.

Rafiki.

We had hoped to catch up with the real Pocahontas but we had to settle with petting the goats instead.

We ended the day with a luau.

Disney World 2010 - Part 1

2010-12-19T17:40:00.002-05:00

We made our way to Disney World for some fun in the nice warm Florida weather. Ha! There was plenty of sun but it was c-o-l-d there!! Luckily we had our jackets with us because I only shed mine for a few hours during our entire trip.

After checking the kids out from school they eagerly awaited our departure at the airport. They were fascinated by the construction crew which helped pass the time.

Lin-Ley began right away on her Vacation Journal.

Tru was all ready with his Mickey Mouse bag which contained two toy trucks.
Although it was cold outside we changed Tru into shorts to help with the additional security measures he must endure with his prosthetic leg. The TSA folks are always kind and he takes it like a champ as long as Mommy is there with him.

Finally in the air and watching a Mickey Mouse movie on Mom's ipod.

Once we arrived at Disney it was dark and we were tired. We ate and retired to our room. The person who would be servicing our room greeted us with some towel art.

After much discussion we were unsure if Jacob, our Christmas elf, would follow us to Disney World or take a vacation in the North Pole. The first morning we woke up in Disney the kids discovered Jacob hanging on the light above their bed.

We started our first morning with breakfast with Mickey Mouse and friends.

Chef Mickey.

Chef Goofy.

Chef Donald.

Chef Minnie.

Chef Pluto.

Then, as we entered the Magic Kingdom, Snow White was there to greet us.

We always have to stop for a shot with Cinderella's castle.

More Princesses.

Sleeping Beauty.

Cinderella.

Belle.

And one of our most anticipated character encounters...
Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen!

During Lin-Ley's first trip to Disney four years ago, she practically waved her little arm off waving at all of the characters in the parades. Some things (luckily) have not changed.
And it pays off too because the characters make eye contact with her and wave back often speaking directly to her.

After a long, cold day at Magic Kingdom Tru finally gave in to a nap in his trusty stroller. As Dallas, Lin-Ley and I snacked on popcorn Tru snoozed away. Guess who shared his popcorn with Tru??
(Bad Daddy!)

Thanksgiving Weekend

2010-11-29T11:53:00.003-05:00

Dallas had to work until 2PM on Thanksgiving Day so the kids and I met some friends at the movie theater. Our movie of choice:

It was great!!

The kids did not know our friends were meeting us there. Popcorn all around!

Lin-Ley and Mercy.

Once Dallas arrived home the remainder of daylight was dedicated to basketball.

Tru gets soooo tickled when Dallas or I try to steal the basket ball away from him.

These two videos show Tru's joy of anticipation as he knows Daddy will try to steal the ball:

Five-O wanted to play too.

As we sat down for our Thanksgiving mini-feast Five-O receive her very own treat.

Just before we ate Tru yelled "Flat Stanley"! Lin-Ley looked around with a confused look and discovered that it was not Flat Stanley but our house elf named Jacob. He had returned to give Santa reports about Lin-Ley and Tru's nice and/or naughty behavior.

Tru continued to cook us yummy food throughout the weekend.

There was plenty of time for swinging...

and basketball!

Quote Of The Day
As Jacob was perched upon the china cabinet, Tru approached him, looked up, and said:
"Excuse me, Jacob. Five-O just chewed up a red crayon. You might want to tell Santa to put her on the naughty list or something."

Happy Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-25T17:19:00.003-05:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Tru's 5th Birthday Weekend

2010-11-14T19:35:00.016-05:00

Friday, November 12, 2010, was Tru's 5th birthday. He began his weekend celebration with a party at school with his classmates. The students are no longer allowed to bring homemade or even store made birthday cakes to school. Instead we have to resort to boxed, individual cakes.

Tru proudly helped distribute the snacks that he personally had selected for his party.

His choices were (and they were his choices!):

After the dinner of his choice, at Chick-fil-A, we went home to open a few gifts. Dallas was not home as he was in Louisiana. It was a quite evening.

This is one of Tru's favorite poses for the camera now.

He will always be our little baby.

When we arrived home Sunday, after Chinese School, Dallas was waiting with a new basketball hoop (still under construction) and an ice cream birthday cake.

Happy Birthday Big Boy!!

Meet Five-O

2010-11-05T20:46:00.004-04:00

Meet Five-O. She is our newest addition.
The kids were totally surprised today!!!

Tru does not really want her to touch him.

Lin-Ley, on the other hand, has not left her alone for one second.

Happy Halloween 2010

2010-11-05T20:08:00.011-04:00

Woody and Pocahontas prepare to Trick-Or-Treat.

Pocahontas demanded a few close-ups.

We concluded the (very cold!) evening at our church's Fall Festival.

Tru had a spider painted on his face.

Lin-Ley had a heart painted.

Due to all of the fun activities we did not get many photos. But we still have plenty of candy!!

Quote Of The Day:
By Lin-Ley while preparing her costume and make-up:
"A pretty costume and make-up. I must be famous!"

Under Construction

2010-10-18T21:40:00.005-04:00

We began a small home renovation project this morning. As I left this morning to take Lin-Ley and Tru to school, the two man construction crew arrived to begin work in our powder room. We explained to the kids that we were going to have a new bathroom soon.

The kids were very curious upon returning home today. Tru just stood in a daze as he realized that we no longer had a toilet or sink. And to make matters worse there was a huge hole in the wall! Later, Lin-Ley arrived home with Dallas and came inside to check things out while everyone else was outside.

As soon as Lin-Ley saw the construction zone she sat down, in dismay, to write the contractor a note.

Sign Of The Day:

Little Mr. Basketball

2010-10-18T20:56:00.014-04:00

Tru has discovered a new love at school this year - basketball. He loves it! The only problem is that he insists that the sport with which he is now infatuated is called soccer. He very proudly tells everyone he meets, "I am good at soccer!"

While at Target this weekend he spotted a basketball as we passed the sporting good aisle. We could not resist the purchase although we were planning to buy him one for his birthday next month. As soon as Dallas pumped some more air into the ball Tru was on the run.

As Tru dribbled away Lin-Ley was on her never ending quest for the perfect rock.

She said these rocks had so many sparkles in them that we could probably be rich.

Taking a breather.

This video is 18 seconds of Tru's pure ~~basketball~~ soccer joy:

Happy Halloween From Us And Cousin Flat Stanley

2010-10-06T10:02:00.001-04:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Pre-K Picture Day

2010-09-30T09:52:00.002-04:00

Oh so handsome!

It Is Official - Dallas Is A Civilian!

2010-09-01T10:08:00.007-04:00

After 23 years, 5 months and 21 days in the U.S. Army, Dallas is now a Civilian.
Although he will always be a Soldier, Dallas was retired from the Army effective Aug 31, 2010.

1990 - First Gulf War

2007 - Second Gulf War

In the beginning, before Dallas joined the Army, no one could have convinced me (Jody) that the Army offered a good life for a family. I was wrong.
Over the past 23 years Dallas has been blessed to have met so many wonderful people who remain life long friends. He has "traveled the world" and we have been fortunate to have only moved three times over the past 17 years. (That is very, very unusual.)

The Army takes care of its Soldiers and their families. The health care alone has been unbelievable. For example: To date Tru has had 4 surgeries, over 200 doctor visits and three prosthetic legs. For all of those medical services we have paid $0 out of our pocket. Unbelievable!

And if you are wondering... Yes! After taking three weeks off Dallas is now working in the civilian world. Due to his years of intense training and education he had no problem finding a great job that still allows him to serve and protect our country.
(Top secret!)

I know I speak for Dallas' parents as well as mine when I say, "We are so proud of you!"

Quote Of The Day:
This will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.
Elmer Davis

Runaway Gourd

2010-08-31T13:06:00.005-04:00

Dallas and Lin-Ley planted this.

Now we have this!

Lin-Ley's 8th Birthday

2010-08-31T12:56:00.025-04:00

Lin-Ley's birthday was in June but, again this year, she had her birthday party in August. For the past four years she has supported animal related organizations at her parties. Instead of presents for herself she collected animal food, treat and toys which we would later deliver to the organizations for distribution.

Last year, for her 7th birthday, Lin-Ley supported the Soldier Dogs for the third consecutive year. Through an organization named K-9 Support Lin-Ley was able to support military dogs working in Iraq, Afghanistan and other foreign locations through the donations received at her birthday party. For her support, Dogtopia gave Lin-Ley special recognition as "A Very Special Donor" on their website. There is a photo of Lin-Ley on the left of the web page from her 6th birthday party. Then, further down the page, there is a small paragraph about her efforts to help the Soldier Dogs. Click HERE to see Lin-Ley's recognition on the K-9 Support website.

Lin-Ley has written letters with each of her Soldier Dog donations. The director of K-9 Support included a copy of Lin-Ley's letter to the Soldier Dogs (and their humans) with the care packages being shipped all over the world that included Lin-Ley's donated items. This is Lin-Ley's photo and letter from last year (her 7th birthday):
Dear Soldier Dogs,
I have a surprise for you. Your surprise is dog stuff like food, toys and bones in the bag. You will have fun a lot with the toys and you will eat lots of healthy food.
I want to see a picture of a soldier dog. Can you send one to me on the computer please Soldiers?
I am 7 years old and I had a Purplicious Party and even the cupcakes were purple. It was fun! At my party my friends brought dog presents instead of human presents. Will the soldier dogs like the dog presents?
What are your dog names? Is it Diamond or Sugar or Sparkle or Sprinkle or Jack or Jacob?
Love,
Lin-Ley

The best part about her Soldier Dog donations last year was that she actually received an email back from a Soldier and several Soldier Dogs that were serving in Afghanistan. This is their letter and some photos:

Dear Ms Lin-Ley Herpin,

First of all thank you so much for all your support for our little fury friends. They are enjoying the gifts you have sent as I type this email. The Soldier Dogs love all of their presents and a couple of them sleep with their toys! A couple of their name's are Razzi (a Yellow Lab), Rreidy (a Black lab) and Mike (an old dog who loves his milk bones). I'll include some pictures of the dogs and a couple of us soldiers. Thank you for your support.

Robby Y (SSG Y)
Base Airborne
Afghanistan
US ARMY

This is Razzi playing with one of the toys Lin-Ley sent!

Needless to say, Lin-Ley was thrilled with this email and photos!!

OK - back to her 8th birthday!

This year Lin-Ley decided that she wanted to support the children who were at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. Her school had collected donations for Johns Hopkins previously and she has always remembered the sick children in the hospital and wanted to do something for them. Tru was also a patient at Johns Hopkins, at a very critical time in his life, where he received wonderful care.
This year Lin-Ley asked her friends to donate new toys, craft items, art supplies, etc. to the Children's Center at Johns Hopkins instead of bringing a present for her. And the party began!

After making necklaces, bracelets and shrinky dinks for themselves the girls got busy making Get Well cards for the children at the hospital.

The finished products.
They made butterfly cards to included a lollipop (check out the googly eyes).

An up close view.

Then it was time for a Barbie movie. The girls were all very excited about the movie. As they watched I painted every one's fingernails with glitter polish.
Halfway through the movie they took a break for dinner.
Then back to the movie.

Almost time for birthday cake.

Lin-Ley's fifth annual photo with her birthday donations.
We were able to personally deliver the gifts to the Children's Center the following week. When we returned from our vacation last weekend there was a letter for Lin-Ley in the mail. It was from the director of the Child Life Department at Johns Hopkins Children's Center.

Dear Miss Lin-Ley,
I want to thank you for donating your eighth birthday party gifts to patients in Johns Hopkins Children's Center. The wonderful toys and games will make many children feel better while they are at the hospital. You have influenced our patients' lives in a very positive way.
We applaud your spirit of caring and appreciate your sharing so generously with our patients.
Sincerely,
P.B.

Lin-Ley is already planning her next birthday!

Quotes Of The Day:
Tru felt rather excluded at Lin-Ley's birthday party. He kept offering,
"Hey girls! Do any of you want to play in my room?"
And none of the girls really acknowledged him. He became very discouraged.
To further entice them to his room he suggested,
"I have a nap roll in my room. Does anyone want to come sleep with me on it?"

Oh boy!!

First Day Of 3rd Grade & Pre-K

2010-08-31T10:09:00.011-04:00

Yesterday was Lin-Ley's first day of 3rd Grade! She did not have much time for photos!

Just one more shot before she went to her new classroom.
Tru had one more day before his school started.

She went straight to her desk and began going through her supplies.

Today was Tru's first day of Pre-K.
So handsome in his new ~~unicorn~~ uniform.

Big Boy School requires a back pack.

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
Yesterday was orientation at Tru's new school. Basically, the parents left the kids there for two hours with their new teacher and new friends to become acclimated to their new surroundings. When I walked in to pick up Tru he said,

"What are you doing here? You are not supposed to be here! Please leave!"

Once we finally made our way to Rocket Tru asked,
"Can we come back here tomorrow?"

Our Quick Summer Get Away

2010-08-28T22:42:00.033-04:00

Another school year was quickly approaching and we had not taken a true summer vacation. With one week to go we decided to go to the Poconos in Pennsylvania. We wanted to check out the Great Wolf Lodge which is an indoor water park and resort all in one.

We have arrived! We all changed and went right into the water park. After several hours of wet fun we were finally able to check into our room. Each of the kids received a "Pup Pass" which allowed them to participate in several other fun activities.

Tru stuffed a horse. His name is Browney. Tru was so disinterest in Browney that he freely gave the horse to Lin-Ley .

Lin-Ley stuffed a Panda (of course).

Our littlest wolf.

The kids were very excited that they had their own ~~bedroom~~ Wolf Den.

Complete with their own TV!

Our littlest wolf.

Tru's favorite part of the water park, by far, was the big bucket of water. The big bucket would fill with water and then empty onto anyone that happened to be beneath it.

Tru was fascinated by it and would not get any closer than this. Eventually Lin-Ley ~~convinced~~ tricked him into standing under the bucket. The force of the water forced him to the floor the first time. The next two times they both loved it.

Before we left we went to the Cub Club for some more activities. As the kids played in the club Dallas and I were left to finish their activities!!

Good Bye Great Wolf!

That evening we were to stay at a local Chateau. Ooh, La, La....

The scenery, as we drove there and walked around the hotel, was beautiful!

There were mountains and a lake,

swans,

deer,

ducks,

and even a pretty waterfall.

Then, with great anticipation, we went to check out our room...

And this was our view!

It only went downhill from there. The most exciting part was when we had to get the kids out of bed at 9:30PM to switch rooms in a hurry. On the other side of our paper-thin walls were a group of young men who were loud, vulgar and tried to break through the adjoining door into our room. What an end to our family vacation!

Quote Of The Day:
No man needs a vacation so much as the person who has just had one.
~Elbert Hubbard

Tru's Last Day Of Preschool

2010-08-20T13:19:00.009-04:00

Tru waves goodbye on his last day of preschool.
He will begin "Big Boy School" (Pre-K) at the end of this month!

Tru, you have come a long way baby!
He began school in September, 2007 with only the ability to scoot on his bottom to get around. Now look at him! He is your typical agile, brave and fearless little boy!

Tru's first day of preschool (September, 2007):

Oh those cheeks!!

Quote Of The Day:
As we prepare for "Big Boy School" we went shopping, earlier this week, for school uniforms. Unfortunately, once we arrived at the store we found that it had already closed for the evening. I took Tru's hand and began leading him back to our van. He became upset and said,

"No, Mommy, no! I have to get my unicorns!"

Tru's Teachings

2010-08-12T16:00:00.010-04:00

Tru and I spend this Tuesday "giving back". We started our morning at a day care facility for disabled children. This facility is sponsored by Kennedy Krieger Institute where Tru is also a patient. At Tru's last visit to Kennedy Krieger some of the staff at the hospital asked if we would be willing to speak with the employees of the day care facility as they were preparing to care for a child that will have a similar surgery as Tru. Afterward the child will have a prosthetic leg as well. The staff of this daycare facility are medical professionals and care for children with a variety of disabilities however, they wanted to learn more about what to expect from a parent's perspective.

I spoke to a staff of ten people that included nurses, administrators, social workers, etc. While we spoke about our family's experiences with Tru's surgeries, medical needs, care of his limb and prosthetic leg, etc. Tru helped himself to their expansive array of toys. As we spoke the staff observed Tru's play and the way he moved with his prosthesis. We talked for about an hour and then Tru and I gave them a demonstration on the proper way to wear and care for his leg. Tru was sooo shy! He was totally out of his comfort zone and did not speak to anyone there.

After our visit there we were off to the University of Maryland. Tru's Prosthetist had also arranged for us to be guests at a teaching clinic for physical therapy students. Again, Tru did not fully understand why we had come to this new place. He would not let go of my hand.

Before we met the students we met the other volunteers who were attending the clinic. Of course, all of the other volunteers were also amputees. As odd as it may sound, Tru has never met another amputee before! He has only been around other children and adults who have two normal, human legs. When we walked into the room with the other amputees (all older men) Tru was very confused and very timid. The men tried to befriend him but Tru only wanted Mommy.

We finally met the PT students and Tru had not yet warmed up. I tried giving him candy, soda or anything I could think to coax him to move around for the observing students.

Finally... one of the instructors blew up this beach ball for Tru. That did the trick! The poor PT students did not know what hit them. Tru turned into an entirely different kid.

Tru was soon playing soccer and volley ball non-stop for the next two hours.

Tru and two of his fellow volunteers.

These are about one quarter of the students in the class. Unfortunately all of them, at some point, got a beach ball to the head or some other body part courtesy of Wild Tru. Sorry guys and girls!

In the end Tru had a blast!

County Fair - 2010

2010-08-09T20:47:00.017-04:00

Saturday was the first day of our County Fair. It was Armed Forces day so we were there flashing Dallas' military I.D. one last time for free admittance.

The sweet baby piglets!

Sheep kisses!

Admission was free but there were still rides, food and games which all needed cash!

Lin-Ley rode the swings all by herself.
(Big Girl!)
[4 tickets]

All of the kids enjoyed the giant slide.
[6 tickets]

Tru chose the Choo-Choo as his solo ride.
[2 tickets]

The annual photo with the Mermaid.

Priceless!

One Year Ago:

Ready, Set, Swing

2010-08-06T12:02:00.003-04:00

The new swing set is all done thanks to Daddy!

Tooth Fairy - Visit #2

2010-08-06T11:41:00.006-04:00

Although Lin-Ley is 8 years old, she has just lost her second tooth.

She brought me the floss and told me to give it a try. I did not pull too hard and thought we could wait one more night.

Then she wrapped her tooth with floss and gave it a try. We both heard a cracking sound and her eyebrows shot up in despair. I quickly grabbed the floss and out came the tiny tooth.

Oh so proud!

The tooth was quickly cleaned and place in her special Tooth Fairy pillow.

Last time we learned that the Tooth Fairy disappointed as she left $1 but it was only one coin. Lesson learned. This time the Tooth Fairy left $2 (all in quarters)!

Quote Of The Day:
Tru (after seeing Lin-Ley's tooth pulling experience)
"Mom, I have big boy teeth already. The Tooth Fairy does not need to come see me!"

Summer Performances

2010-08-03T14:48:00.011-04:00

We celebrated Dallas' birthday at our local dinner theatre. Their production of "Hairspray" was fantastic! Lin-Ley was dancing in her seat with arms waving in the air. Tru is all about questions lately. His more frequent question during the show was, "Is it over yet?"

Lin-Ley ended her three week camp with a show as well. Their show was "Horton Hears A Who". This camp is great for many reasons. Primarily the location. It is literally next door to my office and I can see Lin-Ley having lunch in the courtyard of our complex from my office widow!

There is no pressure to go out and buy your children costumes (obviously). Lin-Ley was actually a monkey in this production....

Lin-Ley delivers her three lines.

Dance break.

Line!

The little girl in red (I'm not sure what that costume is supposed to be!) forgot her line. Lin-Ley leaned over and whispered it to her.

Line!

The little boy in the hooded sweatshirt forgot his line as well. Lin-Ley to the rescue! She leaned over another little actress to whisper his lines as well.

Finale.

Lin-Ley was all smiles after the performance. We are not sure what is up with Tru's newest smile!?!

3 Years Of Tru Love

2010-07-30T21:56:00.015-04:00

Today is the 3rd anniversary of Tru's adoption!

Yesterday was Tru's "Gotcha Day". That was the first time we met this little guy.

And this is our Big Boy today!

Today we celebrated with a haircut, some Chinese noodles and a ride on the carousel.

Happy,
Happy Boy!

Happy, Happy Family!

Happy Birthday To Dallas

2010-07-20T21:12:00.002-04:00

"Can We Swing Now?"

2010-07-19T10:39:00.006-04:00

Dallas has been hard at work on the kids' new swing set. It is still a work in progress. With the extreme heat we have had lately it has been a real challenge but the kids have been "helping" Dallas the whole way so far.
Now that the swings are up all we hear is, "Can we go outside and swing?"

Now if only the mosquitoes would cooperate! The kids are constantly bitten no matter what we spray on them or around the yard. The mosquitoes do not seem to bother Dallas or myself - just the kids. Is it our skin color that makes the difference? From what I have heard, and recently read in a book, mosquitoes do like Asian skin.
Lin-Ley's theory still holds true:

Quote Of The Day
by Lin-Ley
(This is Lin-Ley's theory on why the mosquitoes only bite Tru and her and not Dallas or myself.)
"The mosquitoes like peanut butter better than vanilla."

7th Annual China Girl Reunion

2010-06-29T21:05:00.060-04:00

This past weekend was our 7th annual reunion with our "China Family". We traveled with 14 families to China in Feb/March, 2003. We brought back 14 beautiful China Girls! Now the girls are all 8 years old!!

8 of our 14 families were at our picnic this year. It is so much fun to see the girls grow. This year they warmed up quickly to one another and you could see some real bonding between them. Like us parents, the girls just seemed to pick-up right where they left things last year. It is so fun to watch them.!

Dallas could not make the trip with us this year due to work commitments. So the kids and I loaded up Rocket and hit the road. We made great time on the road and made it to Syracuse in time for lunch at Cracker Barrel (a must on a road trip!).

Tru checks for alligators.

Our first group gathering would be dinner on Friday night. Several families gathered in the hotel lobby before dinner and the girls began visiting and playing together. Tru was right in the thick of things and had an especially strong attraction to Luci... Within minutes he told Luci, "You are my best friend."

We were soon on our way to dinner. The directions were a bit tricky and our five car caravan soon decided to rely on my GPS. It was an interesting ride but we finally arrived at the restaurant to find four other families waiting there for us. Hugs all around!!

Of course the cameras were soon out in full force. It is so funny to watch all of the kids. When they see a camera they instantly look toward it and smile.

The girls were in on the photography this year too.

Lin-Ley and Julia.

We rounded up most of the kids in the restaurant lobby:
Back row: Tru, Quinn, Luci, May, Drew, Lin-Ley and Mackenzie
Front row: Mia S., Julia, Lily and Lana

By far, the biggest hit of the night, was this game. Luckily it was a "winner every time" game and each of the kids won a bouncy ball. EVERY one of our kids had a turn. It took approximately 35 minutes and there were other children who were not with out group who were determined to wait us out.
All of the kids were very excited every time another child would finally win their ball. There were "oohs" and "aahs" galore. It was so funny and entertaining for us parents too.
In this photo Lin-Ley is third in line and Tru is next with his dollar in hand.

The next morning was our annual picnic. It was a very overcast day and there was an almost constant drizzle of rain. The beach was deserted. So... while the parents stayed under the pavilion and visited...

...the kids wasted no time getting busy in the volley ball court's sand pit. They stayed busy in that sand for close to 6 hours!

From time-to-time the kids would come back under the pavilion (mostly for snacks). Several of the girls began using the sidewalk chalk. I noticed Lin-Ley scraping the side of the chalk and to make a colorful powder on the cement.

Then... she discovered some stray ice cubes.

Soon the girls were making a sidewalk paste.

We had our traditional birthday cake for our Spicy Hunan Girls.

What is wrong with this cake?
I bought the cake this year and was dissapointed instantly upon seeing it.
Notice that every word begins with a capital letter except the last word. Things like that drive me nuts!

Here are 8 of our China Princesses:
Lily, Mackenzie, Hanna, Drew, Mia S., Quinn, May and Lin-Ley

Lin-Ley is the youngest of all 14 girls in our travel group.

Now with siblings:
Tru, Lana, Lily, Mackenzie, Hanna, Drew, Mia S., Quinn, May, Lin-Ley and Luci

Since it was stilling raining we let the kids put on their swim suits and go back out to the sand. By this time they were asking to go to the beach and water but it was a little chilly for that.

Lin-Ley, Drew and Mackenzie. AKA The Three Musketeers.

Mia and Tru were pals while playing in the sand. They were working on a fort.

Just a few finished touches.

Now for the water to fill the moat.

Ta-Da.

The Three Musketeers strike a pose.

Some of us parents were finally convinced to take the kids to the water. The beach was still practically deserted. The water was cold!

The Bathing Beauties!
Mackenzie, Drew, Lin-Ley, Lily and Luci

The kids only stayed in the water for around 20 minutes then they were ready to warm up. We went back to the pavilion and the kids changed clothes and some were soon wearing jackets.

On to the hula hoops. Lily, Lin-Ley, Drew and Mia S. are joined by Dean in a hula contest.

Lily and Lin-Ley try multiple hoops.

Many of the girls had been working hard on a secret project. No parents were allowed within the vicinity of the sand pit. The girls would literally chase the parents away. After much digging and many trip for pails of water they were ready for the big reveal.
Ta-Da!

After playing in the water, Tru and Lin-Ley had both told me they were done playing in the sand. So... 10 minutes later they were... in the sand.
Jody: "Tru, don't get your good sandals wet!"
Tru: "I won't Mom."

Jody, "Tru!"

Jody: "Tru!"
Tru: "I won't get dirty Mom. I promise!"

All in!

Mrs. Donna brought a pinata filled with candy. When the kids heard that they came running for the sand pit.
While we waited for some friends to return from the restroom Donna had the kids playing a game of Simon Says. They were all participating to the fullest as candy was in their near future.
Mackenzie, Lin-Ley, Lakin, Lily, Quinn, Claire, Drew, Tru, Luci, May and Cadin

1-2-3 pull!

Candy, candy, candy!

5 minutes after we started our drive back to the hotel.

10 minutes later.

The party continued at the hotel pool. Tru was hanging out on the pool's steps until Dean offered to take him for a swim. Thanks Dean!

Attack Mr. Dean!

Lin-Ley was still trying to catch Dean.

At one point both Dean and Tru were out of the pool. Tru pushed on Dean and then Dean fell into the pool. Of course, Tru's reaction was, "Do it again!" Dean obliged and in this photo Tru is giggling as he pushed Dean into the pool again. Thanks again Dean!

Sunday morning. Time to load up Rocket and head back home. Can't wait to see some of the China Girls at Disney World!!!!!!

Lin-Ley Is 8 !

2010-06-23T19:37:00.009-04:00

It is official. Lin-Ley is 8 years old today!
On the way to High School Musical Summer Camp we stopped to pick up Lin-Ley's birthday cake.

After camp it was on to the birthday presents. Lin-Ley's first gift was A Zhu Zhu Pet hamster. Thanks Aunt Donna, Uncle Tom and Cousin Tori!!

Then she received a journal,

a Tiana doll,

a Tiana bag,

and a Tiana swim suit.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG GIRL!!

Lin-Ley: Chinese Graduation - Tru: CAT Scan

2010-06-21T10:18:00.018-04:00

Yesterday for quite a busy day (to say the least)!

Lin-Ley completed Chinese 1st Grade yesterday complete with a graduation ceremony.
This is Lin-Ley's final exam. Not too shabby!!!!

All smiles as she takes the stage.

Lin-Ley's Chinese 1st Grade Class.

Then it was home for a quiet afternoon. I grilled pork chops and had dinner ready around 5PM. Dallas, Lin-Ley and I were all downstairs. Tru was upstairs playing in his room.

Then one of my biggest fears happened. Dallas and I heard BOOM-BOOM-BOOM on the stairs. Tru fell down the stairs and landed at the bottom face first. We were at the stairs within 2 seconds. We were hesitant to pick-up Tru because we were not sure of what injuries he may have sustained on the way down the stairs. He was crying and screaming and eventually pushed himself up to a sitting position. He already had a goose egg sized knot on his head. I scooped him up, put him in the van, and we were off to the emergency room which is about 5 miles away. Dallas and Lin-Ley followed in Dallas' car.

We were checked in quickly and a CAT scan was ordered. After about two hours at the hospital Tru was given a clean bill of health. Thank GOD!

Here's Tru on those bad steps.

(If you are wondering why the steps look so "old" it is because they are old. Around 131 years old.)

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO DALLAS!!

QUOTE OF THE DAY:
"That ice is freezing my head!"
Tru

Face First....

2010-06-14T14:54:00.003-04:00

On the cement!

For the 4,589,521st time: "Tru, slow down and watch where you are going!"

OUCH!

Happy Parents Day

2010-06-07T10:05:00.009-04:00

Yesterday was Parents Day at our church. The children perform once during June rather than at Mother's Day and Father's Day. The younger children, including Tru, were chosen to present this year.

NOTES FROM LIN-LEY
Lin-Ley always has paper and pencil close at hand. She is either writing notes or drawing pictures. She often writes individual notes for Dallas and me. Here are three of her most recent love notes:

June 6, 2010
Dear Mom,
I love you very much. I love you because you take good care of me alot. You cook for me sometimes.
Love,
Lin-Ley

June 6, 2010
Dear Dad,
Roses are red, violets are blue. Cake is sweet and so are you!
Love,
Lin-Ley

AND....

Lin-Ley said the hearts coming out of the "Love Can" represent our family's overflowing love!

Tru's Preschool Graduation

2010-06-02T21:33:00.014-04:00

Today was Tru's preschool graduation. He was not thrilled with the "pomp and circumstance".

Tru and his BFF Markus.

"Mom can I take off this costume now?!"

Tru led the procession of graduates.

He was still upset about the "costume". The tassel on the hat was especially worrisome for him!!

Getting a little silly toward the end of the ceremony.

Receiving his diploma.

Class of 2010.

Tru will begin Pre-K in the fall. Our baby is growing up!

Amish Country

2010-06-01T11:37:00.035-04:00

Over the Memorial Day weekend we decided to get away. The original plan was to go to the beach but we decided to go to Lancaster, PA instead. Dallas and I have always loved visiting Lancaster but there is only so much for kids to do there. So, we loaded up and off we went for an Amish adventure.

Tru was not excited yet!

Soon after we checked into our hotel we headed out to drive through the farmlands.

We stopped at a roadside bakery but found that they were closed. However, there were animals to be petted and fed before we could leave.

Dallas got an up-close and personal Amish adventure.

As we were driving along the back roads we saw a baby calf making a run for it. The calf ran through a field and across the road in front of us. An Amish farmer was chasing after him. The farmer had just purchased the calf and it had somehow escaped.

Dallas stopped our van and got out to help capture the calf. Two other cars also stopped to help. The kids thought this was wonderful and they wanted to get out too!!

In the end the calf was caught and the farmer headed back to his farm.

I snapped this photo quickly and from a distance. The Amish do not believe in having graven images and therefore do not wish to be photographed.

Saturday morning we decided to take a buggy ride (just like an Amish family) through the farmlands. As many times as Dallas and I have been to Lancaster we had never participated in this activity. The kids were super excited!

Lin-Ley sat right up front with the driver.

We have taken the official tour of the farmlands several times. We found that we actually prefer to drive around ourselves. We finally found the farm we most like to visit. Dallas and the kids went straight toward the barn. Lin-Ley discovered the new baby calf.

The ladies were taking it easy.

We stopped by another road side bakery and found a menagerie of animals.

The peacock was beautiful!

Saturday evening and Sunday morning we took the kids to Dutch Wonderland. This was our first visit to the park.

Saturday the park was cool and almost empty. Perfect!

This photo was from our very first ride. Lin-Ley and I were in front of Dallas and Tru.

Low-and-behold - we saw one of Tru's classmates up in the air!

Happy Memorial Day!

Quote Of The Day:

This will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave.
Elmer Davis

World Fair 2010

2010-04-26T12:04:00.052-04:00

After participating last year in the World Fair at Lin-Ley's school I volunteered to take on the task as organizer this year. Oh boy! I wanted to expand on last year's fair so I got busy. I contacted nearly every country around the world. I asked for literature, posters and prizes for the kids. And they delivered!!
I received packages at my office from:

Anguilla
Argentina
Aruba
Austria
Bahamas
Belgium
Belize
Britain
Cayman Islands
Colombia
Croatia
Curacao
Czech Republic
Dominican Republic
Dubai
Estonia
Finland
Germany
Honduras
Hong Kong
Indonesia
Israel
Japan
Jordan
Malaysia
Malta
Namibia
New Zealand
Portugal
Romania
Saint-Barthelemy
Scandinavia
Seycehelles Islands
Singapore
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
Spain
St. Kitts
Switzerland
Tahiti
Thailand
US Virgin Islands

The prizes some countries sent were amazing. We received t-shirts, tote bags, lip balm, pens, note pads, DVD's, luggage tags, pins, playing cards, puzzles, and on and on. So generous! In additional, we received enough posters for every child attending the fair.
The true disappointment was the response from the American contacts. The Statue of Liberty sent me one brochure. It is the same brochure that you would receive if you visit Liberty Island on a tour. It was the same result for Ellis Island and Washington DC. Sad but true.

In addition we received sponsor donations from AAA, Target, Office Depot, Lowe's, Costco, BJ's Wholesale Club, and Giant Grocery among others.

Let's just say my office became very full very fast. Let's also mention that the UPS delivery man was not my biggest fan as I work on the second floor of an office building without an elevator....

We also received help from many local restaurants. They would typically give us a nice discount on the foods we wanted to serve at the fair. However, with one phone call to the local McDonald's I was fortunate enough to receive 100 free apple pies! Wow!

We wanted to serve food from "around the world" so we had:
American Apple Pie
Mexican Quesadillas
Italian Pizza
Asian Spring Rolls
Indian Pakoras and Somosas

We had displays to represent many countries provided by families within the school. Most of the families that participate draw on their own personal family history for their displays. It is a very diverse school. Love that!

Here are Lin-Ley and Abby (another China Girl) with their Henna Hands.

Same girls, same pose, at last year's fair.

This is our display. You are supposed to represent one country but leave it to me to buck the system.

We even included some family history. Bucking the system again ....

These are just some of the displays:

The school's ESOL teacher sat for the entire fair and made Chinese bookmarks for the kids.

The Governor's Office of Middle Eastern Affairs attended our fair this year. (Disregard the Taiwanese flag behind her.)

Keeping up with Tru was quite a challenge.

We also had some great performances. Several students, including Lin-Ley, spoke in foreign languages to include Chinese, Japanese and Farsi.

We had Persian music featuring the Persian Hammer Dulcimer and Daf Drum.

Indian (the country) dance.

We were treated to a Native American song.

The Governor's Office of Native American Affairs also attended and took time to share with the children and their families.

Then everyone was invited to participate in a Native American social dance.

We had Irish dancers too.

The Irish dance school stayed to perform six different styles of dance.

Then the finale!
The Dragon Dancers.

Tru got an up close and personal look at the Dragon.

This is the rest of the Dragon Dance crew.

Just before this photo was taken I had held out a red envelope for the dragon and he came by to take it from me. Then the Happy Buddha came by and gave me a kiss.

The whole Dragon Dance troupe (with Tru's balloon blocking the photo!).

The fair was wrapping up but there was still time for more Henna Hands.

We supported Heifer International at our fair. Heifer helps people in need all around the world. Find out more about Heifer by visiting their website at:
http://www.heifer.org/

Everyone was invited to place a red sticker on the countries they had visited before and a pink sticker on the countries they would like to visit in the future.

I would say the fair was a success. With so many generous donations and good attendance I think we have covered our costs while supporting a worthy organization.
A big thank you to everyone who helped!

Quote Of The Day:
"Aspire to inspire before you expire."
~Unknown (to me)

Happy Easter 2010

2010-04-05T11:57:00.019-04:00

Happy Easter! I started this post two weeks ago and now that Tax Day has passed I shall complete it....

In preparation for the Easter Bunny Lin-Ley and Tru dyed eggs.

Jackpot! The Easter Bunny delivered.
He even left some Reese's for Dad and Mom's favorite Cadbury Eggs.
Thanks you Easter Bunny - Bock-Bock!

Tru decided he had to get downstairs quickly to check out his basket. So there was no time to put on his leg. So he found his own way to balance as he checks out his new toothbrush.

(The Easter Bunny always bring toothbrushes. I guess it helps cancel out all of the candy....)

After much candy consumption and a little breakfast it was off to church for Easter services.
All children from 2 years to 11 years old presented two songs.
Tru is on the bottom right, second from the right.
For some reason this year Tru was not into singing. He barely looked up.

Lin-Ley

Tru

Lin-Ley

Tru
(At least he is almost singing now.)

Mom and Tru.

Time for the church's Easter Egg Hunt.

Check out all of the cameras.

Lin-Ley (middle) with friends Mercy and Rena.

Tru gets a lift from Dad.

Lin-Ley strikes a pose (without being asked).

Dad and Lin-Ley

There was no Chinese School that afternoon so we had a warm, lazy day around home.

I made an Easter presentation to the children ages 5-11 after church and before the Easter egg hunt. I shared this video. So...

Video Of The Day

Tru's New Leg (#3) !

2010-03-16T21:22:00.020-04:00

It has been 23 months since Tru received his first prosthesis. In that time he has outgrown two "new legs" and has moved on to Leg #3. He received his third prosthesis on February 25, 2010 but we had to go back today to have his new, larger foot added.

When you visit the prosthetist's office there is a routine:

Walk to the exam room.
Take off your leg and hand it over.
Wait.

Then have adjustments.

Here are Mrs. Angie (left) and Mrs. Lisa (right) making sure Tru is level.

Mrs. Angie is Tru's Prosthetist and Mrs. Lisa is Tru's Physical Therapist.

Tru has been very fortunate to have so many great female doctors!

Then take the leg for a spin.

Yes, this new leg definitely works well.
It is fast too!

At the end of the delivery it was determined that Tru should have the next size foot. It would take some time for the new foot to be delivered so they decided to borrow his old foot. So we left with a new leg with an old foot and an old leg with no foot.

Today we went back for the new foot.

(Looks like Tru wore the same shirt as he did on the previous visit.)

Same routine:

Walk to the exam room.
Take off your leg and hand it over.
Wait.

Then it was time to take the new foot for a test walk.

A new foot = new shoes too!

Before we hit the road Mrs. Angie had to make one more knee adjustment.

Tru was fascinated with this adjustment because typically he has to remove his leg for all adjustments. This time he was able to watch what was happening.

He was all smiles.

And so the collection begins:
The Red Leg. (with two baby feet)
The Blue Leg.
The New Leg.

Previous "New Leg" posts:

Leg #2 - http://herpinfamily.blogspot.com/2009/03/trus-new-leg-2.html

Leg #1 - http://herpinfamily.blogspot.com/2008/04/trus-first-steps.html

Lin-Ley's Second Chinese Character Test - 110%

2010-03-08T10:50:00.009-05:00

Lin-Ley had her second Chinese test yesterday. She had to know 40 characters and it was a challenge. Many of the characters, although they have different meanings and different strokes, sound just alike! We studied our 屁股 off!
Before the test I just told Lin-Ley to do her best as we shared a high-five. Two anxious hours later Lin-Ley proudly showed me her test. 110%!!!!!!!!!

GO LIN-LEY!
GO LIN-LEY!

2 for 2 !
See Lin-Ley's first Chinese character test here:
http://herpinfamily.blogspot.com/2009/12/lin-leys-first-chinese-character-test.html

7 Years Of Loving Lin-Ley

2010-03-03T21:22:00.015-05:00

On 3/3/2003 we officially became a Family of 3 !
Today marks the 7th anniversary of Lin-Ley's adoption. We have just wrapped up a two day celebration.
Yesterday was Gotcha Day (the day we actually held Lin-Ley for the first time). We always have to reenact that moment in time. Lin-Ley loves hearing about it.
Today was Adoption Day.

There have been extra hugs, kisses, sweet sentiment, cake and ice cream flowing in our home.

Here we are in China just days after becoming a Forever Family.

Other Happy Recent Events:

Happy Chinese New Year!
(Feb 14, 2010)

Lin-Ley and Mercy (another "China Girl" friend).

Happy Mardi Gras!
(Feb 16, 2010)

Quote Of The Day:
By: Lin-Ley (on Gotcha Day 2010)
"I am so lucky to have a family that loves me."
(Ditto baby girl!)

The Snowiest Winter (Literally) - Continued

2010-02-11T21:37:00.043-05:00

It is being reported that we have received 77.3 inches of snow since December. This has been the snowiest winter on record for Maryland.

EXACTLY HOW MUCH SNOW IS ENOUGH SNOW?

Waist high?

Fence high?

PLAYING

FROM THE KITCHEN WINDOW

Our neighbor getting his tractor stuck while trying to plow their driveway.

Neighbors helping neighbors.

THE BIRDS

Dallas and Lin-Ley always make sure the birds have birdseed. But the supply was running low and the snow had covered the seeds that were there (on top of the rabbit cage). (We do not have a bunny right now but plan to have another eventually.) We were out of bird seed. What else could we feed the birds?

Do birds like Chocolate Cheerios?

They were on their way to make a special delivery.

9 out of 9 birds agree. Chocolate Cheerios are a perfect balance of whole grain goodness and a delicious touch of chocolate taste.

DELIRIUM

The delirium set in around 3PM yesterday. I stayed busy with the mop and vacuum cleaner most of the day. Lin-Ley and Tru were cleaning messing up their rooms in between running from the vacuum. Dallas stayed busy with snow related activities. But enough was enough. We were bored and some interesting things started to happen.

DISCLAIMER: The kids dressed themselves. I make no excuses. (Remember we were in a state of delirium!)

There was much amusing singing and dancing….

We had to keep it upbeat. Wynonna sang “Hunk of Burning Love”, Shania sang “I Feel Like a Women” and of course there was Beyonce’s “Single Ladies”.

And now a short snippet of the kids and their dancing:

ALONG CAME TROUBLE

Dallas and Lin-Ley have been teaming up in their request for a dog. Tru and I are not on board with that idea. But today along came trouble. Literally.

This is Trouble. (Yes, that is her real name.) She showed up at our house today as Dallas was cleaning off the vehicles again. Dallas, never having met Trouble, instantly started giving her commands (sit, shake, etc.) to which she instantly performed. For that she received a piece of sausage and a safe waiting area in our basement until her owner came by looking for her. Nice doggy – but Tru and I have not given in yet.

WHERE ELSE WOULD WE GO?

We did not need anything but we needed to get out. Thank you Target for being open! There was one wrinkle, however. They did not have any popcorn. Oh the travesty!

But across the street…. How could we resist?

Dallas’ office is still closed tomorrow. He has had the whole week off. Lin-Ley’s school is closed until next Tuesday. Tomorrow Tru will return to school and Lin-Ley will go to a local church just to get out of the house. I will be back at work as well.

P.S. We are hearing a nasty rumor that we could be receiving more snow next week. Have mercy!

P.S.S. To those of you in Louisiana, have fun in the snow. Learn from my mistake. Stock up on junk food!

P.S.S.S. For those of you in upstate New York, there is something wrong about this snow situation….

Beautiful Snow Bunnies

2010-02-10T22:46:00.004-05:00

Snow, Snow, Go Away!

2010-02-09T19:06:00.000-05:00

Here we go again!

Digging Out

2010-02-07T20:25:00.020-05:00

The first challenge was getting the snow blower out and started.

Then once it was out the question was where to start!

View from the kitchen window.

Dallas started on the driveway.

After removing some snow around the vehicles Dallas started cleaning off Rocket.

The truck.

The car.

Down the road.

Up the road.

Tru helped clean off the trash cans.

Dallas finally made it all the way to the road. Actually the road was not clear yet so in this photo Dallas was almost standing in the middle of the road.

There is still plenty more snow!

View of our house from the road.

P.S. We are expecting 6-10 inches more of snow tomorrow evening!

Our Winter Wonderland

2010-02-06T19:53:00.026-05:00

The headlines read, "Baltimore's greatest two-day snowfall".

We have had an historic snow fall over the past 24 hours. We have around 3 feet of snow and there is a chance of more tonight.
Obviously all of our weekend activities (including church services) have been canceled and schools closed early yesterday.

This was our view from the front door this morning.

Back deck.

Dallas trying to get out of the basement door.

Outside the back door.

Above the back door.

Dallas tries to save the tree limbs by removing the snow.

Looks like this limb is broken due to the weight of the snow.

View from our bedroom.
In this photo is Dallas' car and my van however they are completely covered.

Dallas starts to clean Rocket (the van).

The kids were ready to go out and play.

Dallas shoveled a pathway from the front porch.

He also dug out a snow tunnel. He demonstrated it first.

Then Lin-Ley gave it a try.

More to come....

The Elf & The Fairy

2010-01-18T19:49:00.023-05:00

THE ELF

On December 1st (2009) this book arrived at our house courtesy of Ma-Ma Linda and Pa-Pa Cowboy.
Lin-Ley read the book aloud to us. In summary, apparently there is an elf that visits your house each year before Christmas to report your good and/or bad behavior to Santa.
Who knew? We had never seen an elf at our house!

We discussed the book and the rules regarding the elf should he appear at our house:
* The elf appears in the house by magic.
* The elf can not talk to us but we can talk to him.
* You can not touch the elf or his magical powers will go away.
* The elf leaves each night to report his findings to Santa.
* After Christmas the elf goes back to live with Santa in the North Pole until Santa begins making his naughty and nice list for next Christmas.

Lin-Ley really liked the story and was wondering why we had never had an elf visit our house. Then we discussed that perhaps we did have an elf in our house previously but just did not see him. She then decided, since she then knew that such elves existed, that she should look around the house very closely just in case we had over looked him.

After about 10 minutes she found an elf! She instantly began introducing herself and telling him about Tru and herself (including the fact that they were from China). (That is always a part of Lin-Ley's self introduction.)

The elf was soon named Jacob.

Throughout the month of December Jacob popped up in a variety of locations to include the kitchen, all bedrooms, hanging from light fixtures, the bathroom, etc, etc.

The kids were always ready to wake up in the mornings to find Jacob. It was a contest to see who could find Jacob first. They were also not shy about tattling to Jacob when they thought the other had been "bad" so that he would tell Santa.

In the end Jacob must have given Santa a good report.

THE FAIRY

Through many dental visits it was discovered that Lin-Ley's baby teeth were delayed. Through the x-rays they could tell that it would be another two years before she would lose any teeth. As Lin-Ley is now 7 years old she was not pleased to hear that!

To all of our surprise, Lin-Ley sprouted a permanent tooth in mid-November. She was thrilled even though the baby tooth still was not loose. Over the weeks she grew anxious about finally having a visit from the Tooth Fairy. She would, on her own, wrap a piece of dental floss around her baby tooth each night and wiggle the tooth.
It finally began to become genuinely loose. I took a turn with the floss and got a little aggresive. I tugged upward and Lin-Ley and I both let out a little yelp as her tooth all but came out. Her eyes were huge! She was excited and scared at the same time. I finally convinced her that I only needed one more little tug and the tooth would be out. In anticipation of the Tooth Fairy's visit she handed over the floss once again. And... it was out!

We cleaned up the tooth and prepared it in the Tooth Fairy pillow that Ma-Ma Shirley had sent years earlier.

For the next several days I (Jody) was known as "The Puller".

The Tooth Fairy was kind and left a $1 gold coin under Lin-Ley's pillow. The next morning, even though she was excited, I could tell she had been expecting more.

Jacob was not happy about being "one-upped" by the Tooth Fairy so the next day he held Lin-Ley's pillow, which contained her tooth, ransom all evening. Since she could not touch Jacob she could not rescue her tooth until the following morning.

Finally... Lin-Ley had joined the Snaggle Tooth Club!

Quote Of The Day:
Lin-Ley
(The morning after the Tooth Fairy's visit and discovering her $1 golden coin.)

"I thought the Tooth Fairy would at least bring me four quarters and maybe a couple dimes!"

Box Top Victory!

2010-01-18T19:25:00.006-05:00

FINALLY!

Lin-Ley collected 220 Box Tops for her school contest. That meant she was entered into the contest 22 times.
There was no need, however, to wait for her name to be drawn at random.

She collected the most Box Tops in the entire school!

Lin-Ley was tickled pink! She heard her name announced on the school's loud speaker, received a personal visit from the PTA congratulating her, and she finally received a prize.

The prize was... a $5 gift card to Dollar Tree.
That was a great gift for Lin-Ley because it meant she actually won five gifts ($1 each).

Thank you to everyone who helped Lin-Ley in her quest for Box Top Victory: Ma-Ma Shirley, Aunt Diane, Mrs. Dianne, Mrs. Robinson and Aunt Georgia.

Lin-Ley has already began another collection for the next school contest. Keep saving those Box Tops!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T18:07:00.026-05:00

We have spent a nice, quiet (for the most part), restful, family Christmas at home this year.

For the third year Aunt Diane and Uncle Ted sent us a beautiful Gingerbread House. It is too pretty to eat. But we have taken it to the church for Christmas Eve services each year and the kids have no problem tearing it apart.

So off we went to the Christmas Eve services with Gingerbread House in hand.

All of the children in Chinese classes at the church performed in a skit. They all spoke in Chinese about the meaning of Christmas. Unfortunately, due to the snow storm last week, they never had a real rehearsal so they were allowed to read their lines.

"Hi Mom and Dad!"

Dallas even got into the act by singing with the English Sunday School class.

Once we returned home it was time for a quick bath and then straight to bed. Santa was on his way!

But first the kids left cookies and milk for Santa as well as a mini bale of hay for the reindeer.

Santa delivered!

Gifts to and from one another as well as many loved ones down south.

Thank you to everyone!!!

Last year Santa surprised us with a trip to Disney World. This year we all received tickets to see "The Princess and the Frog". Dallas' ticket said that he had to buy everyone popcorn!

Other than the voo-doo plot (which was a little dark) the movie was very, very good. The New Orleans background was beautiful! And the food, even though it was animated, looked wonderful. Etoufee, gumbo, jambalya, sauce piquante, and oh those beignets! It made us want to fly home to Louisiana immediately!

The poster for our movie was not available so the kids posed by Alvin and The Chipmunks.

Lesson learned: Tru is not ready for, nor is he interested in, going to the movies. He did not sit down at all and when the popcorn ran out he was distraught. Luckily there were not many people in the theatre.

Lin-Ley's most anticipated Christmas gift was the Cupcake Maker. The following day we finally broke it out of the box and made two cupcakes.

Ta-Da. The finished product....

Quote Of The Day:

At one of the after Christmas clearance sales Lin-Ley found a pink stocking that she wanted to make her own. I told her it did not look very Christmas-y. She told me,

"Mom, it does not matter what our stockings look like or what color they are. It only matters that we remember that it is Jesus' birthday."

The pink stocking was then placed in the shopping cart. End of story.

2009-12-20T22:50:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Searching For Santa

2009-12-20T19:29:00.018-05:00

Dallas likes to take the kids by the pet store from time-to-time to look at the animals. They especially enjoy visiting with the cats and dogs that are usually there waiting for their forever families.
Last weekend we were walking around Petco and ran right into Santa. This Santa did not say one word to anyone. I told the kids to pose, I snapped this photo, and we moved along to see the rescue dogs. Santa never moved!

We usually make a special trip to the local mall to see Santa and take photos. This year we purposely avoided the mall because we knew that we would see Santa last weekend in Baltimore.
Lin-Ley has been participating in a children's television show for the past three years. They were taping their Christmas show last weekend and we were told Santa would be there. Last year there was a great Santa there and Lin-Ley was able to sit and talk with him for quite a while. Therefore, there was no need to wait in line at the mall. We would just see Santa at the show.

This is a photo on the set during a break in the taping of the Christmas show. Lin-Ley and Tru are on the bottom steps to the right. This was Tru's first time on set and he did not last very long.

We waited and waited for Santa to arrive...

And this was their Santa!!

So a trip to the mall would be necessary after all!

We had planned to go see Santa yesterday but due to the huge amount of snow we did not risk driving on the roads. Dallas worked for several hours digging out the vehicles and walkways last night so we could go today. After another two hours of snow blowing, brushing and scraping this morning Dallas had Rocket out and we piled in.

When we arrived at the mall the snow crews were still clearing the parking lots and there were not many people there. We walked in to find Santa hoping that he was there. We had already discussed the possibly that perhaps he could not make it in from the North Pole because of the heavy snow.
We found Santa and there was no line!

Lin-Ley and Tru both pushed the button and registered on the nice list.

And there was Jolly Old St. Nick!

And... afterward we went to the pet store....

No, we do not have a new family member!!

It Is Looking Like A White Christmas

2009-12-19T20:30:00.026-05:00

It began snowing around 10PM last night (Friday). Now, at 8:45PM (Saturday) it is still snowing.
We probably have around 15 inches now.

We were expecting this snow storm so last night I made sure we had the essentials: bread, milk, movies and library books.
Lin-Ley is now reading the Magic Tree House series. I brought home six new books. They are around 120 pages each. She is currently on the third book.

We let Lin-Ley sleep-in this morning. I finally went in to check on her and found her lounging in the bed reading.

Then at breakfast....

Before lunch....

After nap/quiet time it was time to go tackle the snow. Dallas geared up with the shovel and made his way out to the shed. The snow blower had not been used in close to two years so we had our fingers crossed.

Rocket is almost covered.

Dallas' car.

The kids were bundled up and stepped onto the front porch. The light, fluffy snow was blowing and they both got a face full. That was almost enough for Tru and he was ready to go back inside.

Lin-Ley jumped right in (literally). She began making snow angels and got her pants soaking wet.

Dallas finally got the snow blower started and began with the driveway. He called Lin-Ley over to the fence.

Lin-Ley went right over as Dallas was turning around the snow blower. Bad Daddy! He started the machine again and it blew the snow right onto Lin-Ley.

I hope he knows that eventually she is going to pay him back for all of these little tricks!

Tru enjoyed the snow very much!

The kids were wet and they needed to come in after only around 10 minutes outside. Lin-Ley was wet and covered with snow (thanks to Dad). She was more than ready to go inside but Tru refused. However, once I got him inside he was crying because his little hands were so red and cold.

Dallas resorted to the leaf blower to help clean off the deck.

Dallas handed Lin-Ley an icecicle from the deck.

It is supposed to snow through the night!

Due to the weather our church will be closed tomorrow and Chinese School has been canceled. Hopefully we can make it out to see Santa tomorrow. And hopefully Santa will be there!

See Lin-Ley and Tru On Santa's List

2009-12-09T16:20:00.004-05:00

Lin-Ley made Santa's List:
http://family.go.com/santas-list/video/101634-jkh4jkh4/

Tru made Santa's List:
http://family.go.com/santas-list/video/102955-jkh4jkh4/

(P.S. This program would not allow me to spell Lin-Ley's name correctly. I guess the hyphen and second capital /L/ threw off the program. It told me that Lin-Ley's name was invalid! Watch it Santa!!)