Drinking Milk

Freakin' cute kids hanging out, drinking milk on the porch.

The Countdown Begins

Here is a little calendar that I created to help Odessa understand the concept of her birthday coming up soon. It would be an understatement to say that she is really excited for her birthday this year. It is fun because the other two years she was completely oblivious.

Unfortunately, her enthusiasm comes with its own sets of problems: Everything she sees and wants (which is a lot) she pleads "for my birthday?" And when we went to the park and a family was there having their own celebration, she saw the balloons and exclaimed "my birthday!?" I explained that it was another family having a party, not for us. And, of course, she then cried "but I want that one." I think she was THIS close to approaching their Asian family and asking to be adopted, atleast for the length of their party in the park.

One of those other days

Some days I feel better at this mom job than others. Today is one of the other days. Is feels like EVERYTHING with Odessa is such a battle and I get really tired and really frustrated. It seems like it could be easier if all the tiny steps of every day weren't such a tug-of-war. Is it the terrible twos (soon-to-be threes)? I don't even think that I am all that rigid of a parent either -- she gets to do it her way plenty of time. But then, of course, there have to be some limits -- no more than 2 vitamins a day, no spilling drinks all over the carpet, no running in the street etc. Anyway, today is one of those days and I am sure that most moms can relate.

End-of-School Celebration 2009

Here are some pictures from Odessa's end-of-year school celebration. It is funny because she continues to go all year round -- poor kid doesn't get a break. The pre-kindergartners get to "graduate" though and go on to the "big" school next year.

I was THIS CLOSE to missing the whole thing because I was SO tired -- Odessa had refused to nap and it was just one of those days, you know? I am really glad that we went though. It makes me happy to see all the kids sing and dance, see how proud their families are, and get to feel like a part of a bigger community. And to see how happy Odessa is there is especially awesome.

Bowling

Here are some pics of Odessa bowling last week. She chose her very appropriate bowling-wear :)

Reading "Cinderbella" to Baby

Odessa is very good at taking care of her babies -- here is a picture of her reading her latest favorite book to unnamed asian baby.

Nine Years Ago

Nine years ago, Larry and I got married.

Since then we have had our ups and downs, but we have managed to stay together as a team. He has dealt with my crazy family and my high-maintenance personality with grace. For that he deserves a lot of kudos.

I love you always, Lar.

Four Generations