A Family We Will Grow

Sweeet 16

2012-01-17T22:44:00.002-06:00

16 years ago after nearly 5 years of trying GOD blessed us with a healthy baby boy. He was born 40 weeks to the day I was baptized. He is an amazing young man. He is a great big brother, funny, driven, patient and loves GOD. We are proud of his effort he has put into school and powerlifting. He never complains about any situation and always looks on the bright side of everything. Happy Birthday!!

Sofia's 1st tooth.....

2012-01-07T17:20:00.000-06:00

New Years fun...

2012-01-03T17:57:00.002-06:00

Lize gettin ready for a party....Playing the head band game...what a hoot

We made it to midnight - the lil ladies
Packer game!! What a game!

Monday we went bowling. What a fun time. Lize came in 2nd place behind mommy. I don't win very many games so I am NOT a gracious winner.

December fun...

2011-12-26T21:09:00.002-06:00

The girls sporting their new scarves and hatsWill was a shepherd at church for 3 services

The kids get so excited every time Mrs Trish sends a package
Wills favorite gift from his friend Evan to wear on the cruise ship
James made these for our Christmas part-they are way toooo cute
James's gift to the family was Packer stock. You really have to live in WI to know how cool and awesome this really is

The ladies with Jules. I made sure they all had matching outfits somewhat
At our dear friends house Christmas day. What a huge gift it is to have friends that treat you like family.

The cute things kids say....

2011-12-15T21:41:00.002-06:00

Lize and Sofi's "best fwiend" since meeting has been Jules. They are so sweet when they are together.

Jules was home with her mommy cleaning. For some reason she was asking her mom where things were made....
She hears many times, made in China. She excitedly says "I love China".....
Her mom asked why? "because my sisters Sofi and Lize came from there" "and my favotite toys".
I never realized Jules even understood they were from China and I love that she calls them "her sisters".

Thanksgiving Weekend....

2011-11-27T19:50:00.003-06:00

Our lil fairy Lize...Zach making cookies....
The ladies eating again....
Our sweet, tortured dog Molly. The girls dress her up, do her hair, tote her around and lots of other things. She never bites or fights them.
Thanksgiving dinner with James brother Dewight and our nephew lil D

Bear Bear....

2011-11-19T19:43:00.002-06:00

We will never be able to convince Lize that bear bear isn't a "real" living person. Lize got her at the airport when she came home. It was instant love. She gets dressed daily, fed, loved, hugged lots.

Hanging out....

2011-11-14T14:33:00.002-06:00

Life is good.....

Sofia Gotcha Day

2011-11-07T07:13:00.004-06:00

5 years ago today we met our sweet, tiny, timid, scared, beautiful Sofia. She has blossomed into a beautiful, strong, decisive lil lady. She loves dance class, anything with bling and girly. Her favorite place is the beach. Praise GOD for the gift of her!

Gothcha Day....

2011-11-03T15:41:00.003-05:00

Three years ago today GOD blessed us with the most joyful gift Izabela Grace! Lize remains the smartest, kindest, joyful child I have ever come in contact with! She makes us laugh every day of our life! Thank YOU GOD!

Life happenings....

2011-10-24T21:40:00.002-05:00

Sofia is so tired everyday she comes home from school. I don't think she's made it to even 8:00 any night.
Lize loves riding her sisters bike whiles Sofi's at school.

Prayers.....

2011-10-10T17:26:00.003-05:00

In the last week our world has been rocked. Our closest, dearest friends Ted and Trish have had their world turned upside down. Their youngest daughter Hailey was diagnosed with leukemia. Sweet lil Hailey has the most beautiful smile. Her smile literally makes your heart melt. She is silly, funny, kind and so sweet. She loves sparkle, lip gloss, make-up, hello kitty, pretties for her hair and looking girly! Her brothers and sisters ADORE her. Her mommy and daddy are amazing. They need your prayers!! No one plans for this or ever sees it coming. In one day their entire world has changed and for 2 long years (maybe longer) life will be very different for all of them. There are many praises- the biggest being GOD placed her with the perfect family in a country with the best medical care. Did I mention how very blessed we are to be part of their lives?!

You can see her family blog at http://kimchingocha.blogspot.com/

Silver Birch 2011

2011-09-12T19:21:00.003-05:00

This was our 6th year at Silver Birch. I soo love this place! It is a magical place filled with amazing people.The girls loved mini golf....
Lize went zip lining along with the "bid people"
The girls and "their" Mr Neal
James actually went horseback riding
Zach tubing
Will tubing
Bow / arrow and bb gun shooting

Isn't Lize Bell just too sweet
Lize got to horseback ridding
Jules....

Back to school :(

2011-09-09T11:22:00.003-05:00

Where did the time go? How can Sofia be in kindergarten....

Zach is a sophmore.....

Will in 5th grade....

Summer Fun....

2011-08-24T21:04:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure why summer seems to go by sooo fast. We have definetly not wasted a min. It has been a wonderful fun filled summer. We went to Bay Beach (a family fun park in Green Bay)Went on a few picnics, festivals, large cat sanctuary, zoo's parks.....
Went to the public pool every week. Once a week we had treats.

More Bay Beach.

Our favorite day was renting a boat on a chain of lakes for the day. It was amazing-wonderful family time. No phones, I pods, game boys and the teen came with.Lize has NO fear!!
Sofia-not so brave but with Zach she will try anything once

I LOVE SUMMER! School starts next week :<(

Sisterly love....

2011-08-14T18:39:00.002-05:00

Notice the winter boots on the wrong feet- only a parent of lil ones understand this. Not the neighbor WITHOUT kids.

James's many travels.....

2011-08-09T20:44:00.005-05:00

James got the opportunity to travel to Europe from mid-June through the first week of July for work. Luckily during that 18 days he got a few days to sightsee. He went to Turkey, Germany, Netherlands & France.

More fun....

2011-07-23T21:21:00.000-05:00

Rantings of a crazy woman...

2011-07-21T12:51:00.002-05:00

Today I am pretty ticked. James and I planned on starting another adoption in fall. We started asking questions, talking to the adoption and home study agency. We are NOT giving up because we know our hearts and GOD's heart but SERIOUSLY......Only 2 agencies in the entire state of WI will be allowed to do home studies for China because all the NEW rules & regulations. So instead of a $1200 home study it will be a min of $6800 with the one agency and min of $8600 for the other. To add insult-they will also charge for the new 1 month, 3 month, 6 month, 1yr, 3 year and 5 year visit. They are not sure the charge but it COULD be up to $600 per visit. Our wonderful president has made it difficult this year for MANY to get the tax credit back in a timely manner. He also plans to cut that tax credit in almost 1/2 next year. It makes me physically ill all the kiddos sitting in orphanages waiting for parents and quality medical care. We will figure it out but this is enough to push others away from changing lives. All this craziness is enough to keep more children in their situation forever. It is wrong that the home study and paperwork cost more than the China adoption fee...:(

Summer Fun....

2011-07-13T17:58:00.005-05:00

I love everything about summer and having all the kiddos home.....Sofia has totally lost her preschool look- she looks so0 much older. She is beautiful!!

Lize loves swinging-she could do it for hours

Zach got a haircut-he hates pictures

Silly Sofia & Will's helmet....

Lize loves being outside-it's hard to keep her in

July 4th we spent the day at the park....
Picnicing at a state park

I have sad mommy feeling that Will may be growing out of hanging out at the park with mom & sisters.

At the top of the tower overlooking Lake Winnebago.

20 years!!

2011-06-30T10:03:00.002-05:00

On June 29th we celebrated our 20th wedding anniversery. We celebrated in March since we knew James would be in Europe. I'm not sure where 20 years went but it was quick!! Lots of moves-4 kiddos-what an awesome adventure it has been. What a great gift GOD gaves us!!

Our niece Amanda's Wedding...

2011-06-24T21:26:00.002-05:00

When James & I met Amanda was just a lil thing. Now she's a married woman. Boy does time fly...She is an amazing mom & young lady. Amanda & her dad.

Amanda, her son Wiley & new husband David

Will & Lizebell

Sofia loves weddings!!

Zach & Mamaw

Mother & mamaw of bride.

Hotel fun...

2011-06-18T21:24:00.004-05:00

I hate when James travels but the perks of free hotel rooms are nice. We used a free night to go back to our old town, church and visit friends. This is Will the second day of swimming. Lize loves the water!!

Silly Sofia will NOT leave the stairs.

James was out of the room so I let the kids jump...plz no hate mail....I know....

I soo love watching my kids be kids and enjoying life!!

Time flies by....

2011-06-08T12:10:00.002-05:00

I am not really sure where the school year went....but it is over. I am happy about it being over but not excited that Sofi will be in all day Kidergarden Lize will be in 4 1/2 day pre-school...

Will, will be a 5th grader booohooo

Zach will be a sophmore....

Love at first sight...

2011-06-05T09:16:00.001-05:00

Sad....

2011-05-29T21:14:00.004-05:00

In the early morning hours of Tues our lives changed in minutes. My dear sweet Debby- my children's Aunt, mother to Missy and Nicole, Nana to Nicholas, Brady and Lily, wife to Michael for almost 32 years (high school sweethearts). She was part of my ENTIRE life. Never missed a thing. From my birth she was always there....now gone in an instant. I don't have a single bad memory just lot's of fun, amazing times....She will be missed by so many

Love em...

2011-05-22T20:34:00.000-05:00

Lovin Life....

2011-05-17T07:53:00.002-05:00

Will and our beautiful niece Lily (she's only 5 months old) My lil ladies "best fwiends"

Sofia with our new great nephew Abel...

Sofi, Brady and Lize....He is just as mischevious as he looks.

My dear friend Tina used to play with Zach when he was was a toddler. Now he's as tall as her.

"Best fwiends"

3 generations-James, Mamaw, Will

Will found a new activity he enjoys....bowling who woulda known

Lize, Sofi and Faith- Thanks AAC for these beautifull ladies!!

Life is good.....

2011-05-09T21:19:00.002-05:00

Mothers day is my favorite day of the year! My 4 kiddos that call me "mommy". Our sweet lil friend Alivia who was adopted from Korea back in Sept continues to make gains slow but sure.

The girls have been after me since watching Despicable Me about doing ballet. I have to admit I love watching them.

Sofia

It's sooo much fun when the girls enjoy being sisters

Lize.

Random cuteness......

2011-04-18T09:50:00.000-05:00

Difficult decisions....

2011-04-13T07:56:00.003-05:00

DISCLAIMER- First off, I know we chose to attend public school. PLEASE don't lecture me on the spoils of that. I'm sure I have heard it. Public schools have given us LOTS of life lessons to deal with and problem solve. So here goes...Zach shared with us he "may" be getting in some trouble. He NEVER gets in trouble at "school" so we were a lil concerned. He went on to tell us that his high school is doing a moment of "silence" for the kids that are gay on Friday. He refused to sign the petition or participate in "their silent moment". We wearily asked him why....the sum of his thoughts were as follows...he likes people and tries to look past the junk and just love on people. He is sure that a couple of friends are probably gay but that is between them and GOD. He will not judge them but he also won't sit by and rebuke everything the Bible tells him. He is not going to support that everything God has shown him and proved to him many times is wrong. The fact he may socially an "outsider" for not participating is crazy. We are however proud of him for his ability love on people!

Things they say.....

2011-04-07T16:00:00.003-05:00

Sofi had kindergarten screening. They asked her to sing her A,B,C's her response was " no, I don't feel wike it wight now". They then asked if she could say them? Her response "duh, I'm 5". I sat in awe...that it sounded like her 10 yr old brother. Today the girls were put in time out in their rooms. I hear Lize say "why does she always know when were naughty?" Sofi replys "she only hears what she wants to hear" (exactly what I tell their 15 yr old brother....)

The Cruise....

2011-04-01T08:10:00.002-05:00

This was our first trip together in nearly 10 years without children. Although WE both really missed the kids, it was nice to relax and have mommy/daddy time. Royal Carribean's Radience of the Seas

Just one of the many buffets....

James and I met at 12. Our first day of 6th grade. We got married at 21 and nearly 20 years later-we still like eachother, love to hangout and enjoy being parents.

In Cozumel Mexico.

Catamaran to Paradise Island.

Paradise Island.....

On the cruise ship atrium. It is impossible to be bored on the ship. There is always something going on. Casino, shows, movie theater, games, pool, food, mall....

Everyday in our room was a towel animal-this monkey was our favorite.

This was the adult only pool. There was one for kids-everyone and this one. What a great time we had. Next time we want to take the kids tooo.

Surprise....

2011-03-31T08:33:00.003-05:00

You may not know but I HATE surprises. Maybe because I'm a control freak, planner or like to be over prepared. Knowing this....my husband and my BFF did it anyway. I'm not sure how they pulled it off but they did. On most weeks Trish and I talk a min of 2 hrs and she didn't spill the beans. James and I will be married 20 years in June. We celebrated early b/c James will be out of the country and trying to find someone to watch 4 kids can be difficult. We went on a cruise. Before that though, he surprised me with a visit to Trish. Although I hate surprises-it was AWESOME!!!!! They picked us up from the airport and we got LOTS of time together. Ft Myers Beach at Sunset!

Dinner out, without kids at the Peirside

On the pier...

Trish's calender with me written in ink. It was a wonderful day. My life is blessed and enriched in sooo many ways by having Trish and her family as part of it!! THX

Forgot to lock the gate...

2011-03-15T09:49:00.002-05:00

Someone forgot to lock the gate upstairs. For most people of 4, 5, 10 & 15 year old children this would NOT be a problem. With my ladies, this is a problem. They will ALWAYS find something to get into. This morning they used an entire loaf of bread, cut up bananas, got grapes and cheese mixed it all together. They then took chocolate & vanilla pudding and spread it on the bread with their mixture.... They set the table. They also put sandwiches in baggies and lunch bags for the boys. I stayed calm and ate breakfast with my 2 very proud lil ladies.

Did I mention they put granola bars and nutrella on there too.

Lets just say....daddy did not think it was quite as cute as I did. Never a dull moment...

Computer back....

2011-03-08T09:06:00.002-06:00

Our home computer was down for a bit. I'm so happy to have everything working. I didn't realize how much I depended on it for ALOT

Valentines day was fun for the ladies being in preschool. They got lots of treats and practice writing their names.

Will graduated to Weeblos II. He is such a trooper. He is awesome on following through with anything he starts. Not so much for all the other family members in his house.

This would be Zach atleast 30 min each day....XBox live COD

Lize did her own hair....this is also how she wanted to go to preschool. Against my mama feelings, I did let her....Thanks Trish for all her "butiful pweties"

Sofia loves her stickers.....

The girls love to bake, cook, stir and lick the utensils. It is fun to watch them and listen to funny things they say..."How tome it tatse better b4 we took it?"

Priceless princess

2011-02-17T10:57:00.000-06:00

Really????

2011-02-16T08:54:00.004-06:00

This is just thoughtfull rantings of a crazy, GOD loving women who loves life.....A life filled with an awesome husband, kids, church, friends, family....A dear friend got pregnant her senior year of high school. She hid it for almost 20 weeks because she knew what her parents would do. The day she told them--she was right with their reaction--she was kicked out once they found out she was too far along. His parents took her in. What her mom said has HAUNTED me for nearly 18 years. "I wanted to give her the chance I never had" " Now she will be a mom forever". "The chance I never had" has haunted me. The friends older sister was the product of a relationship before abortion was legal. Her mother always thought it was unfair that abortion was ever illegal. My dear friend went on to get married and has been over 18 years. She has 4 beautiful children. She loves the LORD and wouldn't wish any of her children "gone". Her sister has 4 wonderful children. Look how many relationships, lives would have been different by one action. Praise GOD my friend chose life on purpose. PRAISE GOD my daughters mothers chose life in a place where abortion would have been easier....

Still here.....

2011-02-10T08:05:00.004-06:00

Wow has life been a "lil" crazy. I love my life so the craziness is just fine. I'd be nice if it wasn't all at once sometimes but that's alright. Lize finally got ear surgery before the big snow storm hit. It appears it worked. She keeps putting her hands over her ears telling everyone "top bewing too woud". We go back in March for the official opinion. Shriners always gives the kiddo's gifts to take their minds off what is going on. These princess shoes have been on Lize's feet every day and night since that moment.

Sofi got to go to her 1st big girl birthday party by her self. Lize was invited but was the last person in our family to get the flu on the "biddiest day of my wife".

We have had an emense amount of snow. I'm convinced the girls go out for 3 min so they can have hot chocolate.

The girls started a preschool program 2 afternoons a week. I HATE HATE HATE them being gone but it was the only way to get Lize all the services she needs and Sofi felt left out. They are in the same class. I love watching them "mother" eachother.

We have played LOTS of playdoh. Whenever daddy is out of town we have a few special things we do. This is one of them.

We play lots of hide and seek. I get up to about 6 min to go to the bathroom when they hide in the cabnits.

We went to our 1st hockey game. It was a hoot. Not a dull moment the entire game!

Zach had his 15th birthday. I'm not sure where the time went. He is on the powerlifting team at school. He did AWESOME at all his meets. Although he did'nt qualify for state, because of his effort he's going-going to help out those who did. We are really proud of the person he is.

I have and continue to love every moment of this life GOD has given me!!

Wordless Wednesday....

2011-01-26T08:16:00.000-06:00

down for the count.....

2011-01-21T18:55:00.002-06:00

My two that rarely complain, go along with the flow, mostly possitive and enjoy what ever are down for the count. Zach told me thurs he thought he was getting strep throat. I shoulda listened- he was right.

Lize told us Wed night " my heads dunna fald off " thurs she said "my eaws are dunna pop" she woke up Fri after a terrible long night said "wook dey popped". She was right, although she has tubes-the tube and alot of VERY unpleasent "yutty" stuff came out. Thank GOD the antibiotic will cover till her new ear tubes are put in so they can't keep cancelling b/c she got sinus issues.

Cold...

2011-01-17T15:04:00.000-06:00

Someplace warm.....

Where did the time go?

2011-01-12T08:05:00.003-06:00

Happy 15th Birthday to my baby Zach. He loves powerlifting, movies, xbox, hanging out w/friends & youth group.

This would be most of my pictures of our teen Zach. It appears as if his face would melt off he would actually look at the camera.

Friday my baby will be 15. I'm not sure where the time has gone. It has flown by. When we trying for him-that nearly 5 years felt like an eternity. He was so very worth the wait. I have loved every stage with him. He is a fun, quick witted, thoughtful, playful, responsible, GOD loving kid. He amazes me often with his compassion, organization and patience. His brother and sisters thinks he is the greatest guy ever. He continues to floor his parents with the amount of food his body can consume. We thank GOD with all our hearts for the gift of him!

Blessed....

2011-01-06T10:13:00.000-06:00

Christmas Break....

2010-12-30T17:01:00.002-06:00

After a challenging year of moving, job & school changes & personal challenges we decided to take the kids to Florida. We took the kids to Sea World Christmas day then rented a condo accross the street from the beach in Ft Myers. Sanibel / Captiva

Will, Sofi, Hannah, Taylor & Lize getting ready for the train. The kids really have missed their friends.

All the ladies at the Manatee Park.

Too many manatees to count!

Aren't they cute. As mom's we met in person 2 years ago. Our adoption agency had family blogs, we became instant friends and after meeting in person-knew we were soul mates. Our kids love eachother...

Sea World-mommy was very nervous...

Polar Express- Lize thought she was done...

We got to feed & pet the dolphins

Sofia on "merily dround"

We will now hold Sea World close to our heart. Throughout the day we heard "MERRY CHRISTMAS". The whale show was a tribute to the "REAL" reason for CHRISTmas. It was refreshing to hear & enjoy. They may get slack for not being "politically correct" but I personally think they got it right! I will go back for that reason alone.

Busy, busy, busy...

2010-12-21T10:30:00.004-06:00

It has been a busy few weeks. Molly is ready to stop traveling and just relax. I am a stay-at-home mom so I enjoy going, going,going.... We got to visit a sweet dear friend Rose in Indiana

Santa....

We got to meet my our new niece & cousin Lily...

Enjoy our children bunches!!!

Go to Will's Christmas concert.....

Fit in a Packer game....

Wear lots of "fancy" clothes....
Molly says it all...but it's not over yet "hooray"...

Lize is loving every light, song, snowflake, present, visit & visitors...

Sisterly love....

2010-12-07T10:03:00.002-06:00

We went to visit Santa. Santa asked the girls what they wanted...Lize said "pillow pet". Sofia, very serious said "a baby sister named Ellie"........

Christmas season...

2010-12-03T08:28:00.002-06:00

I totally love this time of year through my children's eyes. It's just magical. Our Christmas tree has a wonderful influx of decorections clusstered at the bottom where the girls can reach. A large amount in the middle where Will can reach. I used to rearrange them but Sofi and Lize wake every morning making sure everything is just how they left it. I drives James NUTS (go figure)

Lize had Sofi do her hair..

Makin cookies. They don't always "look" pretty but the pure joy of watching them....makes up for that.

Dancin to Christmas music....

Busted again trying to "hijack" baby Jesus.....

Zach would only help if I stopped telling him the importance of his ornaments- when, where, why he made them......

Chicago....

2010-11-28T10:11:00.003-06:00

Every year we take the kids to Chicago on the train to look at lights, out to lunch at the Rainforest Cafe, horse carriage ride, Water Tower Place and a stroll to "look" at American Girl. This year, our Life Group decided they wanted to go- so we went with them. We met this group of people nearly 5 years ago. Through all the changes of life, we have stayed together. We have truely done LIFE together. Life including a trip to Disney in May. Very rarely do you find a family you aren't blood related who takes the good and bad about you and loves you anyway. GOD brought us all together and what a blessing it has been..... Water Tower Place

Rainforest Cafe...

Millineum Park- Sierra, Hannah, Tachelle and Zach

All of -James

Girls on the Metra!

Tachelle, Sierra, Hannah and Zach....

Pat, Jullianna, Sofi and Dawn

Getting ready for the train....

Yes we let our girls drink starbucks....

She's way tooo cute to say no too

Funny things kids say.....

2010-11-23T14:23:00.002-06:00

As I was getting ready for something- Lize came up to me with GREAT urgency...." Wet me wook in yur miorr" I put her on the bathroom counter-as she instructed me to look. I asked her what was wrong, she looked beautiful. With surprise I didn't know, Lize said " Tan't you see mama, I wook CHINESE "!

Sweet Sofia....

2010-11-18T11:23:00.000-06:00

Life is good....

2010-11-09T21:23:00.000-06:00

4 years ago today....

2010-11-07T08:02:00.003-06:00

4 years ago today in an office in downtown Guanzhou China, we were blessed with Sofia Alma LiYi Newsome. She was this tiny 14 month old. She was shellshocked, frail but oh so sweet. She was and is empathetic to any sadness, crying or pain of any single person... She has the most beautiful smile. She can light up a room with it.

She loves to be outside, playing in water, ponny tails and foofy socks.

She loves pizza, coloring and playing with her "bets fwend Wize" aka her sister.

Bothered.....

2010-11-06T17:05:00.003-05:00

I usually don't share this kind of info but I'm VERY bothered. Bothered to the point, I did not sleep well last night. A family who adopted a 4 year old from China earlier this year is on trial for the murder of their daughter. She was here a couple days shy of 3 months. She suffered horrible abuse in that short time. Her brother who was 9 and biological said he cried himself to sleep watching what was happening to his sister. He felt he had no control. The dad did nothing.....Now she's dead. I'm not sure what went through their heads but it brings me to this point.

Lize was the most amazing adoption. She walked right up said "niho mama" and "lets go" in chinese. Sofi, our first adoption was not that way. I've only shared this to my closest friends but maybe this will stop the death of another child. Sofi was a mild heart baby. She weighed 14 lbs at 14 months. When they handed her to us I thought she had cerebral palsy. She was this frail, pale, limp lil peanut. We knew GOD picked her for us so we decided whatever she had-we'd deal with it. We soon noticed she got stiff and arched her back at physical contact she did not initiate. She could not even roll over. She scooted around in circles on her back- explaining the sores on the back of her head. She would not touch anything with an open hand, ate only lil amounts of formula and was resistant to put anything in her mouth. She did not want to be hugged and cuddled unless she initiated it. When we got home it took nearly 4 months before I could just scoop her up without invitation. It took 6 months before she'd try certain food textures, she sat and crawled. Certain sounds, foods, textures, touches.....would set her into a fit. A fit of screaming, kicking and eventually a long sleep. It was not like your normal 2 / 3 year old fit. She would get soo overwhelmed then crash. We couldn't go away over night for almost 3 years b/c she would scream and chant with any change in routine. I'd love to say things are perfect now but there not. I sometimes have to put her or me behind a gated door. We had wonderful physical, occupational and developmental teachers who have given us large amounts of resources. We have been blessed by our faith, a wonderful Dr. , friends and family who have supported us. We have been blessed by people who love her just where she's at and for who she is. She is developmentally on track now - socially it varies with the situation. Some days are still rough but SO WHAT! SHE IS OUR DAUGHTER!. We wouldn't trade her for anything or anyone. We knew when we adopted there was lots of unknowns. When you have birth children there is lots of unknowns. They are gifts from GOD. GOD loves us with no strings attached and that's how we love her and her siblings. Adoption is not for the faint of faith or heart. We are blessed to have been called......

2 years ago today....

2010-11-02T07:46:00.002-05:00

2 years ago today in a hotel room in Guizhou China, we were united with our sweet Lize Grace. Lize was the lil one we didn't we were missing. I simply heard GOD's prompting to look, where to find her and to trust HIM for the $. GOD showed up in all. HE took care of everything. She is the most sweetest, caring, easy going, joyful,compassionate, joyful and joyful child we could have ever dreamed of. She is very busy and spirited. She maintaines her close friendship with Faith who was in that room that wonderful day.

PRAISE GOD for this wonderful gift...

Holloween fun...

2010-11-01T09:13:00.002-05:00

What a blast watching the kids have sooo much fun. Lize ecspecially was beyond herself with joy. She ran up to every house to be first to "twitc or tweet". Sofi was reserved but excited, picked the perfect piece of "tandy" each time and the first to say thank you. Will was in a hurry to get to all the house he could.

Friday we had a slumber party. Us and 2 famlies got together to eat, play games, talk and eat more. Here is a picture of the 3 youngest dressin up. They made it to nearly midnight...

1st Packer game...

2010-10-26T20:36:00.002-05:00

My entire life I have wondered about Packer fans. The are are like Cub fans. Eccentric, serious, die hard fans who don't waver. They stay strong no matter if their winning or losing. I love it. I have officially crossed over to the dark side. Gone is the Bear fan. My first game was amazing to say the least.

Bubbles, popsicles and friends....

2010-10-22T08:04:00.002-05:00

It's amazing how bubbles, popsicles and friends can make a day. The girls say this was thier best summer day, they talk about it ALOT!! Whenever I ask why, they laugh and talk about the bubbles, popsicles, Nora, Lily and Lauren.

Fall fun....

2010-10-14T08:14:00.002-05:00

At the pumpkin patch...we got a rare picture of Zach. The great pumpkin hunt....

Finally, everyone has a pumpkin....

The house of straw, Lize loves to climb over and on things. Not so happy about crawling through....

Lize still loves to be on my back....

Birthday Party.....

2010-10-11T11:46:00.002-05:00

We have 3 with birthdays in 10 days of eachother which makes for a great celebration. Will had 9 classmates. Then we were blessed with 48 friends and family. It was an awesome day that went by too quick.

Our sweet friend Alivia who recently home from Korea.

2010-10-11T11:38:00.000-05:00

Lize is 4...

2010-10-04T07:54:00.002-05:00

I can't believe Lize is 4. She's the child we didn't know we were missing. GOD called and we answered. We are overwhelmed with joy that GOD called. She is sweet, silly, BUSY, creative, joyfull, cute and curious. She has some of the funniest faces. She bubbles over pure joy and love. She loves being outside. She is NOT afraid of anything. Whenever she says "mommy wook" I get scared inside. We never know what she might have. She is sooo smart. She's this amazing lil sponge of information.

Lize loves food. She'll eat anything we give her (even if it tastes yucky). She loves Pizza and mac-n-cheese the best. She really likes cooked broccli and fruit. I praise GOD her birth mother chose life and HE chose us!
.

Heaven...

2010-09-28T20:58:00.002-05:00

We were on our way somewhere when Sofi said "I wove foofy socks" Lize says "me too". After a few moments Sofi says "do you tink there is foofy socks in heaven"....

Happy Birthday Will...

2010-09-26T13:21:00.002-05:00

10 years ago, after 5 years of trying- a VERY hard pregnancy w/many complications- Our beautiful 8# 9 oz little boy was born. He is a wonderfully joyful child, who knows no stranger. The 2 men he was named after would be proud of the person he is evolving in to. He is "Willy" nilly. He floats through life with a possitive attitude, takes offense to nothing and LOVES JESUS. He enjoys talking to anyone and could care less if his clothes match.

He loves junk food-chips, candy, cookies. He likes pizza. He loves animals, he wants to be a big animal vet and drive a big truck. We are proud of who he is!

Happy Birthday!!!

2010-09-23T09:25:00.003-05:00

Happy 5th Birthday to sweet Sofia. Our lives have been changed forever by you in it. I couldn't celebrate your birthday without thinking of the woman who brought you into this world. I pray she has peace only GOD can give. I am thankful she chose life! I am even more thankful GOD chose us to be your family!

Sofi is our sassy, silly, creative, strong willed, loving, compassionate, intense, beautiful little lady. She loves pizza, fruit, salad with "wanch". She loves Dora, thinks Zach is the greatest brother and Will is her personal play mate. She hates cats and that her sister loves Diego. She tells us often how happy she is Lize is her sister. She wants another sister named Eli. Her smile is AMAZING!

Park fun...

2010-09-21T15:14:00.002-05:00

Lize always takes climbing to the 10th degree. I can't turn my head for a second because she climbs FAST!

Sofi is pretty happy on land...

Christmas Vacation...

2010-09-17T16:08:00.003-05:00

Although Christmas vacation is a while off, James just shared we get to go to Ft Myers Beach. Even though Ft Myers is NOT the place we wanna raise our kids, we love their beach. Not to mention Trish and her family. I get a whole week with my VERY best friend and her girls. We are renting a condo right on the beach. Yipeeee.

Strange happenings....

2010-09-13T17:21:00.001-05:00

For the past 3+ years, Sofi was a real mama's girl. Since bringing Lize home, she was all about daddy. For the past few months a full transition has taken place. Lize is stuck to me like glue...
Sofi on the other hand is all about daddy now. She wants to go everywhere he goes, call him. It's really sweet to watch this transition.

Silver Birch Ranch

2010-09-07T10:40:00.003-05:00

For 5 years now we have been blessed by being able to go to Silver Birch Ranch in Northern WI. It is always the highlight of our summer. The whole weekend is filled with worship, friends, horseback riding, hay rides, swimming, boating, tubing, archery / shooting, mini golf, food, camp-fires, testimony's. It is always amazing.....To make things even better-Will was baptized this weekend. He'd been asking for 2 years but he was finally able to articulate WHY...Our friend Neil who's a pastor & brought us to the camp 5 years ago was the one who was able to bless us with his baptism. A rare look at Zach w/Sofi on the hay ride.

Will, Sofi, Jules & Lize

Will tubing

After 2 days of coersion, Sofi finally rides the horse.

Will's favorite part.

Lize did not want to get off.

Teens...

Lize kept saying " this is the best day EVER"

Summer fun...

2010-09-03T16:15:00.004-05:00

Summer was a ball and anything but boring. Birthday parties, Amusement parks, moving, friends....

There is nothing like watching your kids enjoy life & childhood!

Yes I made Zach go on here with his sisters.

!st rootbeer float for Will.

!st Pinata for ladies...

Our friend Nora who ALWAYS brightens the day....

Lize still remains the most joyful child I've ever met....

In her mama's arms

2010-08-31T17:38:00.002-05:00

Although I don't have any new pictures yet- Alivia is her mama's arms. She is perfect (of course) Her foster family loved and adored her. They were full of information, pictures, gifts and love. I can't wait to meet her! They will be home Thurs night.

On her way.....

2010-08-26T13:30:00.002-05:00

Jackie is on her way to get her little lady Alivia. She doesn't get her till Tues but she gets the weekend to take in the Korean culture. We can't wait to see pictures of their fist meeting.

HOOOORAY Balsigers!

2010-08-24T08:56:00.003-05:00

After years of prayers, our friends the Balsigers are traveling to get their daughter Alivia from Korea. She will be well loved and welcomed by 4 brothers, lots of extended family, wonderferul church and large group of friends.

Please keep Jackie in your prayers as she travels with her mom to get her, Scott staying back w/4 boys, all their activties and his own business. PLEASE pray for her health and BONDING. Praise GOD another orphan will know CHRIST and never go to bed without a family.

Functional hearing????

2010-08-19T09:24:00.002-05:00

Lizeis sooo flippin cute, sweet, energetic, inovative, creative, loving, motherly and spirited. GOD knew I would love these traits and foster them well. I prasie HIM for the gift of all my children but Lize took me extra work convincing everyone. Yesterday we visited Shriners for the audiology and ENT exam for Lize. Since her ear surgery in June she has done amazing although she has 2 major ear infections in the left. She has been speaking more clearly, more blended sounds and starting to use constanents at the beggining of words. The volume thing though seems to not change to dad's dismay.

In July I noticed some of the same behaviors I saw back in February. Her not turning to certain sounds on her left, hitting her self on the the left side of her head and the "whatd you said" phrase. I told myself-she's 3, it's learned behavior from before, stop overacting.........

Then yesterday the Audioligist and ENT had "that" look again. With a smile Dr. Curtis said we have functional hearing on the right. She has all ranges of function, can partipate in speech and will get "great" benifit BUT.....the left is a whole diff story. We know she had severe damage to the left eardrum and the bones are'nt able to vibrate like they should b/c of scar tissue. We also know sometimes surgery works but it didn't again. The tests say she hears everything on the left "muffled". He said she is an awesome compensator and will do well. He aggreed to try one more surgery in 3 months but then tht's it. We then have to concentrate on the "good" ear and decide on a hearing aide on the left or not. He also said if we wanted a 2nd opinion to not feel bad-he'd help any way he could.

HaHaHa.....

2010-08-17T08:26:00.002-05:00

"Mommy, I nweed awergy medcine-my itchy eyes and nose are making my awergies sneeze."

Moving....

2010-08-11T13:04:00.002-05:00

Although moving can be fun, exciting, awesome & scary--it can be hard for 14 year old teens who have been "friends" for 3 years. Zach has been great with all the changes, he never complains. I however remember very vividly being that age-madly in love with my now husband of 19 years. It is hard to sit by and watch them hurt. We are only 90 min north of where we were but for the non-driver...it's a million miles away.

p.s. moving went smooth, james loves his job and so far this seems like a GREAT place to live.

Wordless Wednesday.....

2010-08-03T21:15:00.000-05:00

More July Fun....

2010-07-29T19:44:00.002-05:00

We went to a farm to see where milk comes from. Sofi was not excited once we got there. She is very particular about cleanliness. She was "gwossed out". Lize and Will loved every minute. Sofi kept saying things "cows are nasty", "they all need a bath", "they stwink" and "wet's get out of hewre".

Fun at the lake with Faith. Faith if from the same place as Lize. We went with her parents to get the girls. She is 6, Sofi 4 and Lize 3.

Sofi waiting for candy at the 4th of July parade. I'm not sure if just getting older, going to China, the state of our counties leadership or the fact a bloggy friends son Ryan is giving his life for our country but I am much more patriotic than I ever have been. I love this place. No where else in this world on earth do we have so many blessings. We also are blessed to have people serve through choice.

Zach and Giles here were planning on what trouble they could get in to later.

Lize loved the parade (i'm sure it had nothing to do with candy).

Summer Fun....

2010-07-23T17:04:00.003-05:00

Will's holding his breath till his turn to go tubing.....

Zach and Giles are ALWAYS up to something they should'nt be

Lize loves the beach. Although it's a lafe, she was looking for "sting rays"

Uncle Michael in his hooter hat at summerfest....

James enjoying summerfest...

Zach and his "friend" Paige......

Will enjoying swimming.....

SASSY CHINA GIRLS

Sweet Sofia..

Change????

2010-07-20T08:19:00.003-05:00

During my recent " pity party", GOD reminded me of Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you "declares the LORD" Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
The past 6 weeks have been a whirlwind--first we moved to a rental house while waiting for James company to firm up plans where we were going to live. It looked like we were moving to suburb of Detroit MI. When a very large, stable and well known company in his industry called about a job. After 3 weeks of praying and waiting for GOD's direction, all our plans changed again.
He took the job with the new company which has been an unbelievable miracle in many ways. Better benefits, insurance, less travel.....
We get to stay in WI about 90 min north of where we are. This will be the 4th move in 1 year. Although we have a mover this time, I was a little overwhelmed. I'm not good with change but GOD has been clear with HIS words and promises.

We are still here.....

2010-07-06T12:17:00.002-05:00

We are still here. LOTS of life stuff going on. Grandma always said if you don't have something nice to say, don't say nothing!

wordless wednesday....silly sofia

2010-06-23T09:09:00.001-05:00

Random Cuteness....

2010-06-07T16:02:00.001-05:00

Costa Rica.....

2010-06-01T09:56:00.003-05:00

Costa Rica had beautiful mountains, trees and blue skies. The people we were with were strong in their faith and beliefs. Took great pride in their apperance and all they do

The kids were amazing. Very joyful.

ALL the houses, churches, business have thick bars on their front window.

To the right is the school, to the left their church.

Marie with baby Genises at the government home (orphange for unadoptable)

Some of the things kids put together from recycled plastics.

Plane home.

Wordless Wednesday..........

2010-05-26T01:05:00.000-05:00

Calm in the midst of life.....

2010-05-21T16:20:00.002-05:00

As I look at this picture, it makes my heart physically ache for another child. After a wonderful vacation, school coming to an end, a missions trip to Costa Rica, James traveling nearly every week and me working on the weekend.....you think my plate would be too full to even think of another child. It never is though. GOD has put this ache in my soul to be a mom of many. I love being "mommy". I enjoy every moment with all 4 of them, ecspecially the girls (b/c I'm still the center of their world). Summer is always awesome with all of them together. With all that though, I feel as if someone is waiting for me. Someone who needs a family to love them. The timing in our lives just seems so off right now financially but my heart is aching for someone I haven't even met yet......

Disney Fun....

2010-05-17T10:25:00.004-05:00

Our original life group has been together for nearly 4 years. What a gift we have been given to have these wonderful people to do life with. Hollywood studios

Line for the jungle cruise. Ofcourse Trish made the outfits and bows.

At Hollywood studios. Zach went on the "tower of terror" 13 times.

Pool fun. Sofi is Jeanne's "bestest wady fwiend".

Sofi & Will at Mexico in Epcot.

Epcot's Circle of Life.

Dino ride at Animal Kingdom.

Lize with Neal at It's a small world.

Magic Kingdom!

Pirate Mickey Lize.

Buzz & Woody.

The Ladies!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-05T09:13:00.000-05:00

The wedding.......

2010-05-02T10:12:00.005-05:00

It turned out to be a "BEAUTIFUL" day. There was supposed to be t-storms but it was the complete opposite. Nicole looked wonderful. Uncle Michael was thrilled to hand her over to Jimmy...haha. She looked sooo elegant.

Aunt Debby and Russ (mother of the bride and brother-in-law)

The girls, well all the kids did great. Beyond expectations.

Notre Dame time....

What do you get when preschoolers are bored and there is a "storm drain".

The girls adore Jimmy. We all think he's pretty cool tooo.

Random dancing....

Busy May....

2010-04-28T13:12:00.003-05:00

My wonderful husband gave me a mission trip to Costa Rica for my 40th birthday. I wanted another child but working in a mother's home and orphange for a week is right up my alley. I get to go with 19 other women. My friend Marie being one of them.

We also get to go to Disney with 5 other families. Marie (above) and her family (same Marie with Costa Rica), My best friend Trish and her wonderful family and 3 other families who we have been in a life group with for almost 4 years. GOD has blessed us with these wonderful people.

May is going to be filled with a few great journey. This weekend my cousin (who's more like a niece) is getting married in Indiana. The girls get to be in it.

Wordless wednesday......

2010-04-21T20:53:00.000-05:00

Too proud....

2010-04-14T20:17:00.002-05:00

As many of you know the past 18 months have been a "little" stressful. We have had lots of challenges, changes and life lessons. Through it all, Zach has taken everything in stride. He rarely complains, asks for anything extra or fusses. When he asked to go on a missions trip--we were very excited. We didn't hesitate to say yes, we'll figure it out. He offered to try to raise the money but with everything he's taken in stride--we said we'd figure it out. At Church tonight, he was picked to receive a free mission trip. He was chosen b/c of his attitude and having GREAT potential to change lives of others. We are beyond words. Praising GOD for this gift. There is so much negativity these teens see--seeing him get positive feedback from others warms our souls. Two weeks ago he also got an award from the middle school principal for some of the same character traits. Although he says not to make a big deal---the parent part of us tooo happy, proud, excited and praising GOD from the rooftops for light at the end of this tunnel.

Wordless Wednesday....

2010-04-07T11:00:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday....

2010-03-31T09:18:00.002-05:00

Girls and their daddy's.....

2010-03-25T10:47:00.002-05:00

Sofi kept asking me if she could go on a "date" like mommy with her daddy. James gladly accepted the offer. He called Sofi on the phone to see if she was available. With lots of excitement, she hung up the phone. She then went on the hunt to wear something purple (daddy's favorite color on her). We then had to put makeup on, find a purse and find her "fancy" coat. She waited by door....Her excitement was overwhelming.

They went to DQ for dinner and ice cream. When she came home, she proudly told all of us "this was the besat day of my life" It's all she's talked about all week.....

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-17T11:02:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-10T10:25:00.001-06:00

Wordless wednesday......

2010-03-03T20:26:00.003-06:00

Yes they are OURS....

2010-03-02T11:34:00.003-06:00

While out in the "real" world a lady asked me if the girls were mine. I proudfully said YES. Then she asked "do you have any of your own?" I smiled and said "YES these 2 plus 2 boys". I should have walked away b/c I knew what was coming....."Are any of them from you?" GOD gave the next answer....it was out of my mouth before I realized what I said " just like me, my children are all a gift from GOD". She fleed quickly.

For those who don't know, James is a little neurotic. He loves and thrives on order. While in the hotel last week, I heard Sofi say "OH YOU PEOPLE". When I walked out of the bathroom this is what I found.....The shoes, just like HER daddy.

Visit to Shriners in Chicago....

2010-02-28T17:14:00.002-06:00

In the hotel room the 3 pre-schoolers found great ways to entertain themselves. Jackie and Luke came to hang out and help with Sofi.

They thought it was funny it was snowing outside and they were swimming.

We got to visit Ikea. It is such a cool place. They have everything and the kids had fun too...

Shriners has been a great experience. They have treated us so well. Lize's care has been amazing! When we got there, I thought it was going to be a quick visit. That was until I mentioned I didn't think Lize was hearing well. At that point they did a hearing test, took x-rays of her ears. When that came not so favorable...they had her see the ENT, Speech therapist and another Audiologist. They spent awhile going over the findings. They have decided to try pressure tubes one more time. If that doesn't work .... then she will be fitted for hearing aides. That is totally not what I expected to hear. I'm so thankfull they caught it.