Turtle Tracks

Field Day

2011-09-30T20:28:00.000-05:00

The kids had a blast at Field Day. There were some new games and many of the old favorites like tug-of-war.

A good time was had by all.

Birthday #7....LEGOS!!!

2011-08-27T19:42:00.000-05:00

Reed's growing up. I can't believe he's 7 this year. He had a rough week with an ear infection so he didn't feel great on his actual birthday but with meds he recovered in time to still have his birthday sleepover. He is starting to really get into Legos so we decided to do a Lego theme. I really had fun with it. Reed came up with lots of ideas too.

Happy 7th Birthday!

When each kids arrived "we" assembled a Lego car. I say we because this was really harder than the kids could handle. Wes has gotten pretty good at it though. :)

Then it was off to the races. I found this piece of vinyl siding with 3 "lanes" at Lowes and it was perfect for our track.

I was so excited about how the cake turned out. Store-bought cake modified with Legos. Lego guys holding the candles. The kids all loved it.

Liquid Legos...Reed's own "creation." He came up with the formula himself. ;)

While waiting for popcorn the kids stopped to watch Wes play Angry Birds on his phone. Ha ha.

Lego movie: The Adventures of Clutch Powers

There was the usual sword/light-saber battles and baseball games played throughout the evening. Sadly one of our sweeties had a baseball injury that required stitches. He was so brave and I'm very proud of him. Just sorry he got hurt. His mom says he's doing well now and it even looks like it's already starting to heal.

We love you Reed. Can't believe you are so grown up. You bring so much joy into our lives. Your passion for life is contagious. Can't wait to see what God has planned for your future.

He did it!

2011-07-26T11:25:00.000-05:00

My boy has been content to ride around with training wheels and never seemed motivated to do anything else. He's not naturally a risk taker so our few attempts to push him in that direction just ended in frustration. After a little research, I decided to try taking the pedals and training wheels off his little bike and have him push it around and try to balance himself. After a few minutes of success we put the pedals back on and away he went!

Then we took the training wheels off the bike he got last Christmas and gave that a try.

It worked and he loved it!

He was grinning from ear to ear and said, "This is better than baseball!"

Whoa! Better than baseball? That's the highest praise coming from my big guy.

Way to go son. So proud of you!

A year with Happy Kim

2011-07-25T23:19:00.000-05:00

Kimberly has been in our hearts for over 5 years. One year ago today she was placed in our arms and became a part of our family for forever. What a blessing she is. God knew we needed a little spice. Saturday we celebrated by having friends and family over for cake and ice cream. We even got to use one of the fun candles we risked our lives to get from the bakery across the busy street from our hotel in Nanchang.

The kids had fun playing with squirt bottles.

Kimberly has pretty good aim so watch your back.

We got to spend Saturday evening with the beautiful Uland family and their little Fu girl, Ting Ting. Kim and Ting didn't know what to think about it all at first, then they fought over a few toys (haha), but by the end of the evening everyone was playing great. We reminisced and compared stories. Looked at pics from China and enjoyed memories. We really miss all of Travel Group 1597 and Kimberly's Fu sisters.

We've come a long way since this time last year. Kimberly has bonded and adjusted so well. She is so much fun and keeps us laughing, especially now that we can understand some of what she is saying. She can be so sweet and loving.

As you can see, she's a girl on the go. Sometimes it's hard to keep up. I look forward to the years ahead and can't wait to see where the road leads.

We love you so much Kimberly Mei Xin.

The Starfish Story

2011-07-08T16:58:00.000-05:00

The Starfish Story

The Starfish Thrower

Once upon a time there was a man
who used to go to the ocean

to do his writing.

He had a habit

of walking on the beach

before he began his work.
One day he was walking

along the shore.
As he looked down the beach

he saw a human figure

moving like a dancer.

He smiled to himself

to think of someone
who would dance to the day.
So he began to walk faster

to catch up.
As he got closer,

he saw that it was an
older man and the man

wasn't dancing.

Instead he was reaching

down to the shore,

picking up something
and very gently

throwing it into the ocean.

As he got closer he called out,

"Good morning! What are you doing?"
The older man paused,

looked up and replied,
"Throwing starfish into the ocean."

The man noticed

there were hundreds of starfish

all washed up on the beach

from a storm the night before.

He watched as the man carefully

continued to pick up the starfish

one by one.
"I guess I should have asked,

‘Why are you throwing starfish

into the ocean?’"
"The sun is up

and the tide is going out.

If I don't throw them in

they'll die."
"But don't you realize

there are miles and miles of beach

and starfish all along it.

You can't possibly make a difference!"
The older man listened politely.

He bent down, picked up another starfish

He looked at the starfish

as he prepared to

throw it into the ocean,

past the breaking waves and said –

"I will make a difference to this one!"

4th of July Fireworks

2011-07-05T12:21:00.000-05:00

After a long drive home from Mississippi we were greeted by friends bringing dinner, dessert and fireworks. This was Kimberly's first 4th of July celebration with us and we were curious to see what she thought. Well... she gave the fireworks two thumbs down. It didn't help that her sleeping was way off after a visit to Gran's and it was past her bedtime when the fun began. She loved the bubbles and rocket balloons... and of course the Popsicles. The rest of us enjoyed the show the neighbors do all around us, plus a show of our own and the kids had a blast with the sparklers.

Sparkler fun!

Thanks friends for celebrating with us.

Thompson Family Camping Extravaganza!

2011-06-23T08:44:00.000-05:00

My mother-and-father-in-love celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year. We celebrated by going on a family camping trip together. Five days at Joe Wheeler State Park in Alabama. It was great. This wasn't our typical camping trip. It had to be special. We schemed for months. Whispering. Watching for opportunities to gather info in stealth. We wanted to have lots of surprises along the way. I designed a t-shirt and Christy got a great deal on printing them. Katrina gathered photos from each family and put together a really cool slide show. Travis borrowed a projector so we could watch the slide show (and movies) on the big screen. This was so much fun. We set up a concession stand with popcorn one night. One night we had coins to use to buy movie candy. One night we used the projector light to put on a shadow puppet show. It was hilarious. I know my kids will talk about that for years to come. We rode bikes and scooters, played ball, hiked, went to the beach... We even got in a little craft time for missions. The Thompson's never had to prepare a meal. Travis did lots of research for our gift... an Add-a-Room for their new camper. We had special guests that came up for a surprise visit! (Joe, Marian, Jerry, Nancy, Bonnie and Billy) The only thing we really wished for was the Hawaii Thompsons. We really missed them.

Dreaming

Cooling off

Hacky Sacks for Africa

Memorial Day 2011

2011-05-29T17:31:00.000-05:00

Reflecting on what this day represents. Those that died serving our country. Those loved ones that have passed on before us. They will always be remembered but on this day we say thank you and we miss you.

A boy will always find a weapon.

Rangers Go To The Sounds Game

2011-05-28T20:49:00.000-05:00

The Rangers participated in the Nashville Sounds "Baseball Buddies" program. Before the game, their names were announced as the mascot, Ozzie messed with each player. Then they went onto the field and took their position. Reed was at Shortstop. He stood with the Sounds player for the National Anthem.

Rangers

Ozzie and Reed

High five with the Sounds shortstop.

National Anthem

Reed at Shortstop

Heading off the field. I just thought this was cute.


Tall tales were told and much ball field food was consumed.

The Sounds always put on an incredible fireworks show.

Running the bases after the win.


Home plate.

Buddies having a great night. Then "sleep" over. I heard giggling until 11:40pm. Reed woke me up at 6am after he got sick in bed. Poor Caiden never knew it until I moved him to Cate's room. She was away at a sleepover. Kimberly had a great night with the Binder's. We picked her up after the game. Thank you Heidi.

Class of 2023

2011-05-20T08:28:00.000-05:00

Reed's kindergarten graduation was so sweet.

We are so blessed to have this little guy.

Mrs. Z was the best kindergarten teacher we could have asked for.

Publish Post

Reed wanted to go to a "fancy" restaurant so he chose Fazoli's. Ha ha.

Happy Easter 2011

2011-04-24T16:47:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter! This is my favorite holiday because it is so much more than candy and the Easter bunny. This is a special time to remember what Christ did for us.

Mark 16:5-7 ⁵ When they entered the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a white robe sitting on the right side. The women were shocked, ⁶ but the angel said, “Don’t be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid his body. ⁷ Now go and tell his disciples, including Peter, that Jesus is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there, just as he told you before he died.”

This also a special time for our family as we celebrate our first Easter with Kimberly. We had a great weekend. On Good Friday the kids were out of school so I took them to the Discovery Center where we caught minnows and enjoyed the baby ducks and other critters on the boardwalk around the wetlands. On Saturday we watched Reed's team play. That evening we read the crucifixion and resurrection story in the bible and made Resurrection Rolls. (Delicious!) This morning we served and worshiped at Lifepoint Stewart's Creek Campus. After a yummy lunch we hid, yes actually hid, eggs for the kids to find. It was so fun. It didn't take Kimberly long to figure out that there were M&Ms inside. That girl is so funny. Cate & Reed had a good time searching for the eggs.

A Little League "Home Run"

2011-04-10T15:52:00.000-05:00

Often in Little League a home run has less to do with the hitter than it does with the kids fielding the ball.

It starts with a hit.

Run like the wind to first base.

Coach says keep going.

Run like the wind to get to second before the ball.

This is gonna be close.

An error and the coach motions me to third.

Does the third baseman have the ball? I gotta keep going.

Hmmm...did coach say go home or stay on third?

Gotta beat that throw. Can I make it?


Yes!

Reed's first hit of the season turned into a home run!

Cardinal Chase 2011

2011-04-10T13:01:00.000-05:00

Cate's teacher took Kimberly around a couple of laps.

Cate ran for 45 minutes straight.

Cate's class being silly.

Pirate picture of Cate's class.

Kimberly has fun, too!

Sweet sisters. Kimberly helped everyone stay cool.

Reed ran hard.

Love that smile.


Reed's class pirate picture.

Cardinal Chase is a fundraiser fun run with an auction and lots of activities. The kids all had a great time, ate special treats, dunked teachers and wore themselves out.

Where did my little girl go?

2011-02-15T09:31:00.000-06:00

tween (twn)

A child between middle childhood and adolesence, usually between 8 and 12 years old.

[Blend of teen and between.]

On February 9, 2011 my sweet girl turned 8 years old.

I sure do love this girl. She is sweet and spunky. She gives awesome hugs. She's my rock star.

Lord she is your child. Give me wisdom so that I can be the mom I need to be.

Just Goofin' Off with Happy Kim

2011-02-04T15:09:00.000-06:00

Finding Ad for Kimberly

2011-01-04T11:18:00.000-06:00

I cannot imagine the horror of making the decision to abandon this beautiful child. I pray for Kimberly's birth mother and family. I know they were in an impossible situation. I believe they must have loved her and I wish I could tell them that she is loved and cared for.

Our agency located the paper that included her finding ad. Someone translated the ad and wrote the following at the bottom of the page:
"We found an abandoned baby at the gate of (name) home who is the (it names a village and county). Her name is Fu Jiu Xin, female, was born on Feb 18, 2009, dark hair, fair skin."

We will never know her story fully. This is the earliest known picture.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T17:31:00.000-06:00

I wonder what's in here.

Yay! I love it.

Yay! What is it?

Reed with his favorite gift. No, not the Legos. His Chicago Cubs hat.

Kimberly's favorite gift, baby doll stroller.

Reed's hugging. Kimberly's pushing him away.

Testing out the bikes.

Cubs shirt, also a favorite.

Snow bunny.

Nice ride.

Writing your gift to Jesus.

What gift would you give Jesus?

Birthday cake for Jesus.

Mmmm.... chocolate.

That's a big snowball.

Cate and Frosty.

Our Family Christmas Card

2010-12-24T08:56:00.000-06:00

Luke 2:9-12
And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

Luke 2:13-14
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

Christmas with Granny & Papaw

2010-12-23T11:21:00.000-06:00

Christmas with Gran

2010-12-23T10:54:00.000-06:00

Kimberly's Child Dedication

2010-12-23T10:15:00.000-06:00

On November 27, 2010 Lifepoint Church had a really nice child dedication celebration. We took Kimberly to dedicate her to the Lord and promise to raise her to love God.

Family photo with Lifepoint's senior pastor, Pat Hood.

Family photo with Lifepoint Stewart's Creek

Campus pastor, Kris Dolberry.

Snow Day!!!

2010-12-23T09:33:00.000-06:00

The snow came to our town early this winter. I still needed to do my Christmas shopping and pack for a trip to Mississippi but with school out there's nothing to do but.....

...PLAY!!!

All I want for Christmas is my...

2010-11-19T17:16:00.000-06:00

One week ago today Reed lost his first tooth while at school. It was a little unusual because he lost his top tooth before losing a bottom one. The Tooth Fairy brought him a nice shiny silver dollar.

Today when I picked up Reed from school he had lost another tooth!

Now his top two middle teeth are missing. It's so adorable.

As I look at my son and we celebrate losing his first teeth, my love for him just grows. He's beautiful. He's perfect. He's just the way God made him. Then I think about a place in Africa, where children who get their top teeth first, even if it's their permanent teeth, are labeled "mingi" or unclean. If Reed had been born to one of these three tribes, this would be a death sentence. He would either be thrown in the river to drown or left alone in the bush to die. A ministry called Drawn From Water rescues these children. I can't imagine how this can happen but thought if I spread the word then we might be able to make a difference.

Fall Festival 2010

2010-10-31T14:22:00.000-05:00

Rock Star, Safari Guy and Little Lion are ready

for some Trunk or Treat at our church's Fall Festival.

Ahhh...Paparazzi!

NO pictures please!!!

There were lots of treats, rides, inflatables and games.


Reed went on the hay ride four times.

Sampling the goodies...mmmm cotton candy.

Sending Kids Jr.

2010-10-25T10:19:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday we had an opportunity to serve our community as a family alongside others from our church. I was so excited to have this hands-on way to teach our kids about serving God by helping others. We didn't know what our assignment would be but was excited to learn that we would be working on a project at Cate and Reed's school. There was a garden that was WAY overgrown with some evil bush that didn't want to give it up. The kids and adults all worked their socks off (and it's catching up with me today). I was so proud of the kids. We cleared the bushes out, tilled the garden and planted a mums. Other teams worked all over our community on different projects that day. The best thing was that we all did it as a family.


Kimberly's first community service project.

It's a Zoo at Lucky Ladd Farms

2010-10-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

This year we tried out a different pumpkin farm with some friends. Lucky Ladd Farms was so nice and fun. They have a huge petting zoo with over 100 animals. The kids loved this part. It is well worth the extra money to buy a couple of bags of feed. Kimberly really got a kick out of the animals. There were lots of rides, two big slides, a fun maze, lots of things to climb on, pumpkins and unusual gourds... We didn't get around to doing everything before we were worn out.

Here we go to the Zoo

2010-10-07T21:33:00.001-05:00

Standing on one leg like the flamingos.

Everybody was Kung Fu Fighting!

Clouded Leopards are so cool.

A couple of other cool cats.

Chillin'

Ari the White-Cheeked Gibbon, our zoo's newest addition by adoption.

I almost left off the craziest thing... the raccoon. Not a zoo animal. We noticed it above the meerkats then it climbed over to another tree and crawled/fell down out of the tree right in front of us. That's when we thought, uh oh, this animal is not right. We kept an eye on it while my friend went and told zoo staff. Apparently they had been trying to trap it the day before. Strange. Beware of raccoon at zoo.

Exploring Long Hunter State Park

2010-10-06T16:58:00.000-05:00

Hiking on Hallowed Grounds

2010-09-06T07:46:00.004-05:00

What a beautiful day we had with awesome weather. Perfect for a hike through our national battlefield. This was Kimberly's first hiking experience and she was a trooper. She hiked most of the way then got a lift from daddy. We explored the woods, tracked animals, looked for little treasures along the way, climbed on cannons, and imagined a time where this area was not so peaceful.

Love my hikers.

Big sister is a great helper.

Pausing for a rest.

Tracking rodents of unusual size.

My trailblazer making sure we're on the right track.

Cannons are always good for an adventure.

Very cool rock formations.

That's my silly girl...one of them anyway.

Lions and Tigers and Bears...Oh MY....

2010-08-29T16:01:00.008-05:00

Reed turned 6 years old on the 24th of August and for his birthday he wanted to go to the Memphis Zoo. He LOVES animals, especially big cats and pandas. Memphis Zoo has lots of both plus so many other cool animals that we had never seen. It would be hard to say what our favorites were. Polar Bear ranked pretty high. Cheetah, lions, tiger, grizzlies, the list really goes on and on. This zoo is the best we've ever been to. We arrived at 9am when they opened and shut them down at 5pm. Exhausted would be an understatement but we had the best time. Kimberly enjoyed herself too. She was really checking out some of the animals. Cate and Reed were so excited that as soon as they would see one animal they would want to run to the next to see what was there. Just as much fun as the animals were the treats...Icees, nachos, lollipops...

Enjoy the pics....

In the blink of an eye....

2010-08-24T08:27:00.003-05:00

Happy 6th Birthday to the best son ever!

Playing Around...

2010-08-20T11:29:00.003-05:00

My brain is not able to put together cute stories or clever thoughts right now but I wanted to share some pics anyway.

First Day of School Pics 2010

2010-08-20T08:45:00.002-05:00

Cate was supposed to start school the day after we arrived home from China. But since Wes and I had not seen her in 2 1/2 weeks and we didn't get to bed until after midnight we kept her home to love on that Monday. So her first day of school was the 2nd day of 2nd Grade. She has a great teacher and we are excited about the year. She's growing up and it's so fun to watch but a little sad because she's still my sweet little girl.

Since Reed went to Kindergarten Readiness last year he actually is starting Kindergarten this year. Kindergarten phases in slowly after the rest of school starts. We are looking forward to this year. I think we will really see how sending him to KR last year pays off. He has experience working for him this year. In some ways he seems so grown up but in other ways so young.

I pray this is a great year of learning and exploring for these two precious one. I pray they grown in knowledge, are brave socially, set good examples for others, make lasting friendships and love learning.

Daddy....

2010-08-17T19:05:00.000-05:00

...... can I borrow the keys?

Count Your Blessings

2010-08-09T20:25:00.002-05:00

As we lay in bed the words to an old hymn kept playing in my head.

Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

I mentally counted. Started with the bed, then the house, then Smyrna, Tennessee, United States and the world. Many blessings. It is so wonderful.

Before we go....

2010-07-21T07:25:00.003-05:00

We we have changed her name. Not just what we call her but her official name.

The official name:

Kimberly Mei Xin Thompson

We're telling everyone to call her Kimberly
Mei is pronounced May
Xin is prounounced Shin (This is her middle name the orphanage gave
her and it means Happy.)
We decided to keep the last name Thompson instead of changing all our
name to Fu. ;D

If you're wondering what happened to Mei Ling, well.... it's a long story...

Of course we'll still call her mei mei (little sister) and Reed just
calls her Happy. And her foster family has nicknamed her Xin Xin. Needless to say, she'll be confused.

We hope to blog while we're in China so keep checking back for new updates. We will have her in our arms on Sunday 7/25.

Where in the World Are We Going?

2010-07-15T10:03:00.003-05:00

Thought you might want to see where we're going. We will be in the southeast portion of China. The port city is Hong Kong. We'll be there a couple of days. Then we'll fly to Nanchang, the capital of Jiangxi Province where our daughter lives. She is from Fuzhou City (not the Fuzhou you see on the map.) in Jiangxi Province. We probably will not be able to visit Fuzhou City or the orphanage. By the way, I think we have decided to call her by her first name of Kimberly instead of her middle name, Mei Ling. We'll stay in Nanchang for about 5 days then fly to Guangzhou, the capital city of Guangdong Province. All adoptions go through Guangzhou (gwon joe). We'll be here about a week. This is where we apply for Kimberly's passport and visa and hopefully do a lot of shopping for souvenirs. Then we'll fly back to Hong Kong and on to Chicago then HOME!!! I am excited about the trip but also ready for it to be over so we can start settling in and just being a family.

Please pray for travel safety and pray for safety of Cate and Reed as we are gone. I am already dreading leaving them behind for so long. Check on Nanna & Grandpa to make sure the kids haven't tied them up and locked 'em in a closet.

Update for Mei Mei

2010-07-12T09:02:00.003-05:00

We got an envelope with a bit more info this weekend. No new pictures but I wasn't expecting any so I wasn't too disappointed. I did send a care package a few weeks ago with a disposable camera so I hope to get that when we pick her up.

We now know that Fu Jiu Xin was found abandoned at the door of a villager's home in the Chengxi Township on September 25th, 2009. She was 7 months old. The villager placed her under the care of the orphanage. A doctor examined her and deemed her to be in good physical health and estimated her date of birth to be February 18, 2009. The orphanage named her. She has been in foster care almost the entire time. She is attached to her foster mom and calls her mama. Her nickname is Xin Xin.

It appears that she enjoys a variety of food and has a good appetite. She plays with toys and likes to watch t.v. I was surprised to find that she had a t.v. She likes to play games with older children. Likes to bathe. I was glad to hear this. It should make bath time more fun. She loves to talk and laugh. She can say one- to two-word phrases such as "eat, mommy, daddy, " etc. (In Chinese I'm sure.)

She is relatively outgoing, active and lively. Mischievous! :D Likes to play outside and likes to play with water. Sometimes a bit stubborn and impatient, relatively headstrong and wants adults to obey her. Ha! She can be a bit shy, but once she gets familiar with a new person she is no longer scared.

I just want to squeeze her and tickle her. "The waiting is the hardest part!"

China Adoption and Ladybugs

2010-07-09T07:19:00.003-05:00

You may not know that ladybugs have a special meaning to those of us in the Chinese adoption community. The Chinese adoption myth is that ladybugs are a sign of good luck. I am not one that believes in luck but I do appreciate the symbols ladybugs represent. The other day I was trying (I say "trying" because as Cate will tell you I bawled through the whole thing.) to read the kids this book called Shaoey and Dot by Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman. Great book that gives kids a little insight into how the babies come to be in need of adoption. The main characters are Shaoey (the first little girl that the Chapman's adopted) and Dot (the cute little ladybug that befriends her and stays to keep an eye on her). The illustrations by Jim Chapman are inspired.This morning as I was preparing a special breakfast for the kids (a bowl of Reece's peanut butter and chocolate cereal!), I found a little ladybug sitting on the cabinet. It probably means nothing, but with all the stress of trying to get last-minute paperwork done so our travel is not delayed, I sure needed that smile. Just as Dot watched over Shaoey in the book, I know that God is watching over our adoption journey. It is in His hands and no matter how long this takes or what hurdles we have to jump, it will happen in God's perfect timing.

Kids on 4th of July

2010-07-06T16:10:00.003-05:00

Gran's Visit

2010-07-05T09:54:00.003-05:00

Gran came for a visit and the sunflower bloomed for her.

She worked so hard getting Cate and Mei Ling's room ready.

Kindred Spirits

I love how the room turned out.

Thanks Gran!!!

Cookout and Neighborhood Fireworks

2010-07-05T09:23:00.003-05:00

Airshow and Fireworks

2010-07-05T09:06:00.004-05:00

New Pictures!

2010-06-24T12:59:00.004-05:00

(We totally didn't expect new pictures!)

Weight about 20 lbs.) Wonder if I should get some 18 month clothes. I was thinking 12 month. What do you think?

She's in foster care. That can be a good thing because she is more likely to learn how to form attachments. It may make it more traumatic when she has to leave them. Often the foster family has such a hard time saying good-bye. Please pray for them. They have had her 8.5 months. These pictures may have been taken at the foster family's home. She looks so much more grown up in these pics that the last ones. That smile melts my heart and makes my eyes leak.

(In hindsight I deleted some info for privacy and to protect our agency.)

Xin Means Happy

2010-06-10T07:58:00.010-05:00

Meet Xin

Xin (pronounced Shin) is her middle name.
Xin means happy, joyful.
Doesn't she look happy in this picture?

She is developing normally.
Weighs 17.6 lbs and is 27.56 inches tall which is in the 3rd percentile, so she's tiny. Even though she is almost 16 months old, she's probably about the size of a 10-12 month old. Actually I know 12 month olds that are bigger than she is.
She has a good appetite. Primary food is milk-based formula and rice-based formula. Supplemental foods: noodles, rice, eggs, cakes, fruit, crackers, meat cake soup (yummy!)...
Favorite food: steamed eggs
Favorite activity: sitting in little car
Favorite toy: cell phone
(can't you just picture her sitting in the little car talking on the cell phone?)
She's a moderate sleeper.
("we may not all sleep but we will all be changed... 1 Cor. 15:51)
She crawls on hands and knees, walks holding onto handrail or with one hand held, uses thumbs & index fingers to pick things up, imitates words, responds to others, cooperative when getting dressed, active, restless, fond of imitating, fond of music, plays with toys, fond of singing, talkative, has a ready smile, gets along with others, quick to react, fairly extroverted, obstinate sometimes, and impatient sometimes.

In other words... SHE'S PERFECT!!!

Oops...I almost forgot to say that we have been calling her Mei Mei (pron. may may) which means little sister. We are still considering naming her Kimberly Mei Ling (pron. May Ling)

Oh, and we may get her July or August. Pray!

(In hindsight I deleted some info for privacy reasons and to protect our agency.)

Camping with Friends

2010-05-31T21:10:00.006-05:00

We had a great time camping at Henry Horton State Park
with friends this Memorial Day weekend.

The kids goofed around on the playground.

I got some sweet and silly pics of them both.

The next day the squirt wars began.

Then we played "sponge cup..."

...and made up some Survivor-type challenges for the kids.

Don't let your feet touch the ground.

Water flowed freely.

S'mores fueled the fun.

Found this cool vine to sit on while on a hike.

Discovered there were horses near the primitive camp sites.

Sweet times.

SCE Field Day 2010

2010-05-19T19:28:00.003-05:00

Sounds Reading Club

2010-05-16T15:08:00.004-05:00

Sounds Reading Club!
Cate read 40 books and earned a ticket to the Nashville Sounds AAA baseball game. There were lots of kids from middle TN and KY there to celebrate reading.

Notice the sign says Stewart's Creek Elementary

On parade around the field.

Ozzie

Loving this picture.

The Sounds played a good game.

I just thought this was sweet.

Sounds Win!

And they always have a great fireworks display.

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-16T13:09:00.003-05:00

We had a blast making Mother's Day gifts for the grandmothers.

I got some really sweet homemade gifts from the kids. Reed made me a "sea monkey" out of fusion beads and Cate made me a I "heart" You magnet. Reed made some artwork at school and Cate wrote a story. We went to church where we had 3 baptisms and several baby dedications. Then fish tacos at Blue Coast Burritos. It was a great day.

SKATES!

2010-05-16T12:57:00.003-05:00

God sets the lonely in families...

2010-05-10T11:36:00.004-05:00

As I was working on some adoption paperwork this morning and pondering our reasons for wanting to add to our family through adoption, I came across this passage in Psalm 68:

⁵ A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows,
is God in his holy dwelling.

⁶ God sets the lonely in families...

The part, "God sets the lonely in families..." really hit home with me. It struck me that the "lonely" might not just refer to the child. I believe that God has already given us our daughter from China, even though we have not met her yet. My heart longs for her. My arms long to hold her. I know that without her in our lives we would be "lonely."

Team Bats got a Win!

2010-04-23T10:19:00.003-05:00

Isn't this just a precious bunch of boys? They are so excited about playing ball.

Reed's showing me they got their first win.
21-12 against the Muckdogs. Don't you just love the names of the teams?

After the win, Reed was jumping up and down with his arms in the air saying,
"we won, we won our first game!"

Reed got the game ball signed by the coaches!

He hit two pitches and one off the tee.
And got a triple, scored a run, fielded well.
It was a proud moment. sniff sniff

Tuckered out, probably dreaming about the big game,
and yes he's sleeping with the ball.

Let's Go BA-ats! CLAP CLAP clap clap

2010-04-10T14:42:00.005-05:00

Reed had his first ever real baseball game under the lights on Friday night.

He played Right Field with as much spunk as anyone could.
Lots of balls came his way and he really hustled to get to the ball and throw it in.

Reed's warming up on deck.

It's #9 Reed Thompson at bat. They pitched 3 to him and he missed. Then they brought out the T. You have 2 tries to hit off the T. He missed the first one. I'm biting my nails. He connected with the 2nd....he runs...gets a little tangled up with his bat...they throw him out at 1st. He handles it with grace. I'm so proud.

We lost 18-9.

But does it look like they are worried about it?

Watching your child play a sport can really be hard on the nerves. They were just adorable out there in their uniforms. Reed was grinning ear to ear. The coaches are so good to him. They make a point of telling him what he did well. They really seem to be a good fit for our first try at team sports.

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T08:39:00.005-05:00

Cate kept saying, "This is a really fun day."
We did have a lot of fun this Easter weekend.

We colored eggs on Friday.

On Saturday we went to the RSC Easter Carnival.

Our small group had a Painting Station set up for everyone.

The Easter Bunny made an appearance.

The kids filled their buckets at the egg hunt.

The night before Easter we made the Easter Story Cookies
and read the scripture.
On Sunday morning we opened the oven/tomb and here are the cookies.

The eggs we decorated were yummy for Easter dinner.

Easter Story Cookies

2010-03-30T09:11:00.003-05:00

A friend sent me this recipe. I can't wait to try this out with the kids Saturday night.

To be made the evening before Easter

You need:
1 cup whole pecans
1 tsp. vinegar
3 egg whites
pinch salt
1 cup sugar
zipper baggie
wooden spoon
tape
Bible

Preheat oven to 300 degrees (this is important-don't wait until you're half done with the recipe)!

Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read John 19:1-3.
Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30.
Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus ' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27.

So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Ps. 34:8 and John 3:16.
Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus .
Read Isa. 1:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus body was laid.
Read Matt. 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.
Read Matt. 27:65-66.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus ' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20 and 22.
On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter, Jesus ' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matt. 28:1-9

He is Risen!

Spring Break #3 - Aquarium with Friends

2010-03-25T13:00:00.001-05:00

It's Spring Break! We are trying to squeeze as many fun things into one week as possible. Spent one beautiful day in Chattanooga with friends. Went to the Aquarium, had a picnic, saw the IMAX movie Wild Ocean and had ice cream at the end of the trip. So much fun. We wore ourselves out!

The Thompson's and the Hill's

Touching the Stingrays and Sharks.

Trying to touch the River Sturgeon

Reed's sad because he couldn't touch the sturgeon.

Exploring outside the aquarium.

Chillin'

Horsing around.

Closing out the trip with a refreshing ice cream cone.

Spring Break #2 - Nashville Zoo

2010-03-25T12:07:00.005-05:00

Beautiful day at the Nashville Zoo! This is one of our favorite places. The kids are really into animals of all kinds right now. They get super excited when they see certain ones, especially the big cats.

Speaking of wild animals...look who we ran into.

We brushed the goats whether they wanted it or not.

The Clouded Leopards were a favorite. It's hard to see,
but there are two cubs in the shadows in the back.

Reed was crazy about the African Wild Dogs. He loves to watch them on the DVD Planet Earth.

We love the tigers!

Can you find my two monkeys in this picture?

Spring Break #1 - Gran's Here!

2010-03-25T11:49:00.005-05:00

Gran came for a visit and the sun came out!

We had to show Gran all the things we like to do.

Like ride our scooters.

And ride bikes.

And shoot hoops!

And play football.

Gran's pretty good at football.

A little piano time.

We're so glad you came to visit. We had the best time.
Love you Gran!!!

Some Pics from Cate's 7th Birthday

2010-02-23T08:51:00.004-06:00

The birthday girl with bling in the hair getting ready for school.

Play date with some school friends.

Cake after dinner. Mmmm...Chocolate!

Opening gifts from grandparents!
Ooh...what to buy, what to buy?

This girl loves art.

Gran is an artist, too!

Silly girl. Happy birthday!

Mary Louise Fountain Grantham "May" Cochran

2010-02-18T11:25:00.004-06:00

Mary Louise "May" Fountain Grantham Cochran, 96, of Ocean Springs died Tuesday, February 16, 2010, in Ocean Springs.

Mrs. Cochran was born in Biloxi where she grew up. She was an active member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church and was a past president of Keesler Officers Wives' Club. She loved to garden, play cards, bird watch and enjoyed numerous trips to Europe. For many years she enjoyed cruising in the gulf with her family on their boat, The Duchess.

She was preceded in death by:

her first husband, Holen Hunter Grantham, her parents, Walter and Winnie Fountain, her brothers, Elwood Fountain and Walter Fountain and her sisters, Claire Mozarra and Margie Fountain.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 67 years, Ed Cochran, Sr., her children, Betty Bonifer (Joe), Hunter Grantham (Sandra), Ed Cochran, Jr. (Dell), Bob Cochran (Nancy), Susan Toche (Wesley) and Patricia King (Timmy), 23 grandchildren, Joe, Jim, Jeff, Diane, Barbara, Jeannie, Susan, Tina, Gaye, Shari, Karen, Susie, Chelle, Craig, Clay, Tammy, Ethan, Jeremy, Sarah, Katie, Aimee, Bryan and Michelle, 36 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren, one sister, Beetsy Randazzo, 3 brothers, Gerald Fountain (Janis), Ronnie Fountain, and Bobby Fountain, and numerous nieces and nephews.

We will miss you grandmother.

February 9, 2003

2010-02-09T08:59:00.004-06:00

My precious daughter was born. The years just fly by. She brings so much joy to our lives. She challenges us in ways we never imagined. I still remember when she was a baby and we would sit her on the floor and everyone just sat around her and watched. She was and still is our entertainment. My sweet girl is 7 years old today. She is growing up. Lord I give her to you, but thank You for giving her to us.

Snow Art

2010-02-01T21:47:00.006-06:00

Sun Catchers

A Message for Gran

Cate says Walrus. Reed says Cannon.

Icicles are Yummy!

Precious boy.

Walking the Track.

Snow Painting

Angels

Fun in the snow

2010-01-30T08:45:00.006-06:00

Having some sledding fun. We have 4-5 inches of snow. Unfortunately it iced over last night. Sledding today was kind of scary. We made the kids go to a smaller hill because everyone kept zinging across the road. It was like a sheet of ice. There was just no way to stop yourself. We had grownups lining the road to catch the kids. The smaller hill wasn't so bad.

Reed and mommy sledding before the ice hit.

Back home now. Warming up. Safe and sound.

DoNUTS

2010-01-30T07:34:00.004-06:00

Yesterday on the way home from sledding we saw a guy on a four wheeler racing up and down the street and spinning around in our cul-de-sac. I said something about him doing donuts.

When Reed came downstairs this morning Wes asked him if he was ready for breakfast. Reed asked, "Is that guy still selling donuts?"

A Duet

2010-01-28T12:01:00.001-06:00

Cate and Wes playing the piano together.

The Greatest Show On Earth!

2010-01-23T19:41:00.005-06:00

Wow! We had so much fun at the circus today. It was the first time for the kids. This is what we gave Cate for her birthday instead of a party this year. They were so excited by it all. Their favorite things were the tiger act, horses, dogs...okay anything with animals. The girls getting shot out of the cannon were so cool. Reed said, "I really love the circus. It was so "magic." He thought the "fireworks" caused the magic. Cate was so excited that she saw real white tigers. She has a stuffed animal that we got from the Creation Museum that is her favorite thing right now.

I really enjoyed the elephants. Wes said his favorite part was the cannons. The performers are so talented and creative. The set was amazing. If you've never been, I highly recommend it.

ZING ZANG ZOOOOOOM!!!!

Solid, Liquid or GAS?

2010-01-14T17:47:00.004-06:00

So we're sitting around the dinner table enjoying our bowls of leftover chili (with beans) and quizzing the kids on solids, liquid or gas. We would call out something like water, table, milk, ice... and the kids would see who could guess it first. Then all of a sudden Reed's beans kicked in with a distinctive roar from the rear end and we all said... GAS!

We're all laughing our heads off when Reed said I'm gonna do it again. I said no don't do that you might have an accident. Wes said ask Uncle Clay what it's called when that happens. Reed said... SOLID!

Reed Quotes #14

2010-01-14T14:53:00.002-06:00

We were looking at cards with the days of the week written on them.

I held up THURSDAY. Reed said, Fursday. I said, th...th...THURSDAY. He said, fff...ffff... Fursday. I said, Th, Th, Thursday. He said, That's what I said!

Reed Quotes #13

2010-01-14T14:51:00.001-06:00

Drip drip. When I go potty I always drip at the end.

Cate's Gift

2010-01-10T21:38:00.002-06:00

I heard Cate playing a new song in the other room. When she was finished she ran to find me and asked if I had heard. I said yes it was beautiful. She said she was playing for God. The next time she played it she let me make the video. Precious girl.

My little angels

2010-01-10T07:42:00.002-06:00

Some of the Kids' Drawings

2010-01-05T09:36:00.005-06:00

Birthday Card from Cate

Birthday Card from Reed

Reindeer by Reed

Snowman Family by Cate

Snowman and Candy Cane by Reed

Santa and Reindeer by Reed

Christmas Tree, Snowmen, Snow, JOY by Reed

Lion Family by Cate

Starry Night by Cate

Santa, Reindeer with Sleigh and Cate

Our 15th Anniversay

2009-12-23T01:00:00.002-06:00

I have always said that I got the best one. Wes Thompson was, is and will always be the best husband I could ask for. We've been married 15 years. It has flown by so fast, especially since the kids came along. I am so blessed. I look forward to many more years together.

Moon and Stars Forever.

I love you sweetie.

Thompson Christmas Card 2009

2009-12-18T15:27:00.003-06:00

We wish you a Merry Christmas!

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11

Getting ready for Christmas

2009-12-05T12:48:00.003-06:00

Christmas music playing, hot chocolate cooling, a big bowl of popcorn...okay I know that should have said plate of cookies but I had driven 7 hours that day on the way home from MS so popcorn it is.

I can count 13 ornaments in this one shot. Don't you just love the way kids decorate? And they added a couple more after I took this picture. I plan on leaving everything just the way they decorated it. It makes me smile.

Love my sweeties.

Meeting Sadie Marie

2009-12-05T09:50:00.003-06:00

On our trip to MS to visit family this past Thanksgiving the kids got a chance to see a baby donkey at our cousin Lucy's house. Sadie Marie, the donkey, was so cute and really took to the kids.

A beautiful Saturday in the woods.

2009-11-14T14:48:00.004-06:00

Daddy had to work today. We really miss Saturdays with daddy. It was such a pretty day that we had to get out and do something. We decided to go to Sharp Springs for a tromp through the woods and hunt for a couple of letterboxes.

The woods were so pretty with the fall leaves and the sunny day. Great time for a few pictures and a picnic lunch next to the wetland area. Thanking God for all the beauty around us.

Somehow we found our treasure. They were hidden along a disc golf course.

Swing from vines, playing with sticks, collecting rocks & acorns & leaves...

We found a lost disc in the woods so Reed spent a lot of time trying go get it in the goal or whatever that thing is called.

Ramblings of a boy.

2009-11-13T15:34:00.004-06:00

Reed comes in the house with a chunky rock. He took in the bathroom and washed it. Then he said, "my rock is all clean for the contest." "What contest," I asked. Reed said, "The rock contest. You know the one in Nashville where Bon Jovi is going to be. I'm going to take my rock to the contest. And Bon Jovi is going to be there and well maybe I shouldn't take my rock because someone might get hurt at the contest, right momma? Maybe I won't go to the concert. I might get a headache. We could just have a concert here on my birthday when I turn 6. We could have the rock contest, then Bon Jovi could sing, then we'll eat cake and after that we'll eat lunch...then it will be dinner time. Then I will get my pigeons and we will have a pigeon contest. Right momma?"

Came across this picture.

2009-11-13T08:21:00.005-06:00

It's one of my favorites so I had to share. It's from Cate's 6th birthday.

And then there was this one from Christmas 2007.

And this one just makes me smile. (9/2006)

Reed Quotes #12

2009-11-12T14:44:00.003-06:00

Picked up the kids from school. As soon as we walk in the door Reed heads straight to his little bag of Halloween candy and picks out a yummy chocolate. He says, "mom, can I have this, huh mom, can I?" I say, "I thought we were going to make popcorn for a snack." He says as he is opening the candy, "you can make it while I eat this."

I love that boy.

This makes me smile...

2009-11-07T10:44:00.002-06:00

Trick or Treat, Smell My Feet...

2009-11-01T06:42:00.004-06:00

Queen Lucy and King Peter

Mommy tried to make dessert. Ha. Eye Ball Cupcakes and a "Ghost" in the middle.

Yummy Mummy Dogs

Reed, Cate, Cole, Caiden and Dawson

Gettin' sugared up.

Reed likes 80's band

2009-10-29T17:41:00.005-05:00

Well I may have introduced Reed to Bon Jovi. We did an air band version of You Give Love a Bad Name. Then he wanted to watch some videos on youtube. I went to get dinner ready and he drew this picture of a concert.

Just gotta brag...

2009-10-29T16:18:00.003-05:00

...on my girl!

She's doing so well with her piano lessons. I'm so proud of her. Her teacher was bragging on her today. Just makes me smile. Thanks Rachel.

Creation Museum

2009-10-19T14:08:00.006-05:00

We had a great time at the Creation Musuem.

Wes and Reed pose for a pic with Abraham, Moses and David.

Reed with Paul.

Then we dropped by to see how Noah and his family were doing. Looks like the Ark is just about ready. From the amount of rain outside I was glad to see the boat. The Noah part of the museum is really well done. The pictures don't do it justice.

The dinosaurs were really cool. We went to a workshop with Buddy Davis, the guy that built most of the dinos in the museum. He showed us how he does it.

T-Rex may be looking for a couple of kids to snack on.

There was a break in the rain so we thought we would check out the gardens.

The Koi pond was neat. The kids really liked watching the fish come up to the surface.

I don't know if you can tell but it's raining. We had to rush through the petting zoo. Wish the weather could have been nicer so we could have enjoyed the gardens and zoo. We got soaked.

It was a very interesting place to visit. Would definitely do it again. I wish there were more museums like this that show you the Biblical view.

The kids are really interested in dinosaurs now. We found a Walmart the next day and bought a bunch of plastic ones. Reed loves playing with them.

If you ever visit the Creation Museum, give yourself the full day to see everything. We need to go back just to do the things we didn't have time for.

Abe Lincoln Heritage Trail

2009-10-17T08:20:00.004-05:00

Last week was fall break. We had a great time in Kentucky. It rained a lot but we still got to visit some of the sites of Abe Lincoln's childhood.

The kids are being statues with boy Lincoln and his dog. Lincoln loved reading and would walk great distances to borrow a new book.

The building in the background houses a replica of Abe's log cabin. This is at the his birthplace.

The sinkhole where the Lincoln's got their water.

Inside the cabin at his boyhood home. These pegs were used to climb up into the loft.

Cabin at the Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home.

The Ultimate Parent

2009-10-14T17:52:00.001-05:00

My Child,

I know everything about you Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit and when you rise Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother’s womb Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented by those who don’t know me John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love 1 John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you 1 John 3:1

Simply because you are my child and I am your Father 1 John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect Father Matthew 5:28

Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs Matthew 6:31-33

My plans for your future have always been filled with hope Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore Psalm 139:17-18

And I will rejoice over you with singing Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me, and I will give you the desires of your heart Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager 2 Thess 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carried a lamb I have carried you close to my heart Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes Rev 21:3-4

And I’ll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth Rev 21:3-4

I am your Father and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins 2 Cor 5:18

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled 2 Cor 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you 1 John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me 1 John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you from my love Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I’ll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen Luke 15:7

I have always been Father, and will always be Father Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is…Will you be my child? John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad, Almighty God

P.S. All the above is 100% true. However, having said all this, I want to add a postscript:

I do forgive all your iniquities Psalm 103:3

I do heal all your diseases Psalm 103:3

However, you have a responsibility in your own healing Deuteronomy 28

It is not that I cannot heal; it is that I cannot without denying Matthew 5:22-24

My own holiness and giving you a leavened gospel that 2 Corinthians 7:1

Would say you can keep your sin and receive My blessings 2 Timothy 2:24-26

One of My Son’s missions on the earth was to heal the sick Acts 10:38

And destroy the works of the devil 1 John 3:8

And you are commissioned to do the same in My Son’s name Isaiah 58:6-12

Chick-a-dee-dee-dee

2009-10-13T06:52:00.003-05:00

The other night we were reading Reed's bird book. I was telling him about the chickadee. It said they were friendly little birds and if you mimic their sound they might fly closer to check you out. When I said that you could just see the wheels in Reed's head turning. His eyes got big and he started talking. "Tomorrow at school when I go to out on the playground I'm gonna say Chick-a-dee-dee-dee and they will land on my finger. I'm going to show him to everyone because they are so cute. When we get home can be build a cage for him? Hmm, can we mom...Mom can we?" He was so disappointed the next morning when it was raining because he thought they would go outside at school. He was still talking about it today.

Reed's Drawing

2009-10-06T09:00:00.004-05:00

Reed has finally gotten interested in drawing. I wondered if it would ever happen. I just had to share this one. The flowers are buttercups but they don't want to wake up because it's cold. That's Reed standing next to the tree and there's an earthworm next to him. You might think that thing on the tree is a branch, but it's a pteranodon hiding behind the tree. Then there's the possum on the side of the tree. There's a nest of baby birds on top of the tree and a bee hive hanging on the right side. The things flying under the sun and cloud include a flying beetle, a dragonfly, butterfly and some stinging bugs. You don't want to touch the ones that sting. I think that covers it.

Reed Quotes #11

2009-09-19T08:43:00.002-05:00

Me: Reed did you have sweet dreams last night?
Reed: Well I was having a good dream but then Cate woke me up. I wish she didn't wake me up because I wanted to see what happened in my dream. I was eating tomato juice and drinking it too.

Reed Quotes #10

2009-09-17T15:26:00.002-05:00

I heard Reed's voice coming from the bathroom and thought he was telling me something. When I went to investigate I found him sitting on the pot singing one of his new color word songs... B-R-O-W-N (to the tune of BINGO). From the smell I would say he chose the right color song.

Introducing.....Cate's Quotes!

2009-09-17T15:08:00.002-05:00

Cate: Mom did you know I'm allergic to wigs?
Me: Did you say wigs?
Cate: Yes. Remember when we were at the shoe store and we saw the wig? I stared at it a long time and then I kept sneezing! So I'm allergic to wigs.

Reed Quotes #9

2009-09-16T21:25:00.004-05:00

We had heard about a martial arts class at the local church and wanted to see how Cate and Reed liked it. I tried to call the guy in charge but didn't hear back from him so on the night of the first class I told the kids we were going to check it out. Right before we left the guy called and told me that they no longer take 5 year olds in the class. When I told Reed we couldn't go to the class he said in his sad whiny voice, "Oh no. I wanted to break some bricks." I guess he thought that's all they do.

Just looking at old pics of my sweeties

2009-09-15T12:17:00.003-05:00

Jelly Beans and Chopsticks

2009-09-15T08:43:00.002-05:00

We had fun during "Girls Weekend" catching Jelly Belly's with Chopsticks. Cate got pretty good at it. Mommy/Daughter time so sweet.

Adventure Science Center & Plantetarium

2009-09-08T10:02:00.004-05:00

We had a fun Labor Day at the Adventure Science Center. Even went to the Sudekum Planetarium to see the Skies Over Nashville.

We bought a membership pass back in March but this was the first time we noticed the bees. If you ever go to the ASC don't miss the honey bees. They are tucked away around a corner by some upstairs bathrooms. I think this was everyone's favorite thing. There's a tube that comes in through the wall so the bees can come and go as they please. There's a mirror outside the window so you can look at the bees outside too. This was so cool. We were looking at all the bees when Reed said, "Oh there's one with the number 17 on it. I'm going to call him Matt Kenseth." (Kenseth is drives the #17 car in NASCAR.) We all thought to ourselves, "Reed's using his imagination again." Then we looked closer and there really was a sticker on a bee with the number 17. That's how you know which one is the queen. We all had a good laugh about that.

The star show lasted about an hour. We all had to re-adjust to the sun being up when we came out of the planetarium. Reed said, "I guess we need to go somewhere to eat breakfast since we were in there all night."

Girls Weekend

2009-09-05T20:51:00.004-05:00

Wes and Reed went to a Braves game in Atlanta and spent two nights at Nanna and Grandpa's. Cate and I made the most of our girls weekend. Friday night we picked up Chinese takeout. Yummy! We watched Nims Island. Pretty good movie. For dessert we fished Jelly Belly's out of a cup with chopsticks. Saturday we started off the day with chocolate chip pancakes. Painted toe nails.

Then met some other girls at the skating rink for Cate's first time skating. She wasn't too sure at first but once she got started she didn't want to leave. I will probably need traction and lots of pain meds after over two hours of skating and a few tumbles. Poor Cate fell about a million times. Only once did it seem to really hurt but she may have a few bruises this week. Maybe I should send a note to her teacher so they don't suspect anything. I was pretty impressed with how well she did in the end. Afterwards she got ice cream. (Sweet tea for momma.) Then we were headed home. (Somewhere Cate got the idea that we were going to play tennis. Ugh. She had to settle for some driveway badminton.) Finally, I convinced her that we needed a break so we went in for leftover shrimp lo mein and watched Kit Kittredge: An American Girl movie. Another good movie. Cate's in bed and I won't be far behind. We did the "girls night" dance a few times. It was a good weekend with my sweet girl.