Growing Up Quick

Besties

2012-02-13T21:45:00.000-08:00

They fight like crazy.

They love each other like crazy.

They push each others buttons like nothing you've ever seen.

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind

that these two

will be besties for life.

A little levity

2012-02-13T20:44:00.000-08:00

Just what the world needs.....

a little levity.

Valentines

2012-02-12T18:38:00.000-08:00

Valentines have been started and are hung to dry before finishing touches tomorrow.

Man it's tricky when there are 40 (yes count 'em, 40)

kids to make Valentines for.

But I think we'll do it.

Thanks to some super quick stamping from one budding artist

we are well on our way.

Clearly.......

2012-02-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

Clearly......

I have not posted in a good long while.

And clearly.......

this blog is very important to me.

Mostly, it is important because it is the only journal I have of our doings.

Of Sofia's growing up.

I must get back on track.

So, if any one checks in on this

please forgive me for what I am about to do.

Clearly.......

I am about to post like crazy,

in a completely meaningless, random fashion

to get stuff down.

Christmas Eve Checklist

2011-12-26T22:28:00.000-08:00

Carrots for the Reindeer

Check

Cookies for Santa

Check

Milk too!!

(I tried to convince her that beer was the way to go

but NOOOOO!)

Santa

2011-12-22T20:43:00.000-08:00

Sofia meets Santa

2011

Wrapping

2011-12-22T20:37:00.000-08:00

Okay......I'll admit it!

I'm a bit of a fanatic about how I like my Christmas presents wrapped.

It dates back to my stint in retail at a high end kitchen store,

where I received formal instruction in gift wrapping.

I like them to look nice.

I use double sided tape.

And I only ever use real ribbon.

My paper has a color theme.

It's nothing to be ashamed about.

This year my present wrapping ideals have been challenged.

I've had help in the form of a four year old.

There is tape everywhere.

Ribbons don't match.

Gift cards are being written in four year old script.

(Santa may have a bit of a challenge on his hands this year)

And yet, this year, the presents under my tree

are the most beautiful ever.

This one is for you Papa.

And for the record, the other side of this gift tag is BLUE
Not part of the approved color scheme for Christmas 2011.

A Rainbow

2011-12-04T20:14:00.000-08:00

Sofia: "One.....Two......Three......"

Me: "What are you counting, Sofia?"

Sofia: "Lines on your forehead"

(she reached ten just in case you were wondering)

Me: "Do you like the lines on my forehead, Sofia?"

Sofia: "Yes.....they kind of look like a rainbow"

I have mixed feelings about this little discussion.

November

2011-11-06T18:25:00.000-08:00

November is National Adoption Awareness Month....

and I find myself this Sunday evening

my heart content

looking across the couch

at the two best decisions

I ever made in my life.

Family is family

and I am so proud

of the way my family came into my life.

Recipe for a perfect Halloween.....

2011-11-04T22:13:00.000-07:00

A perfectly adorable costume....

Parents willing to get in on the act.....

Equally adorable friends to hang with......

A belly full of pizza......

A bucket to hold all of the goodies.....

And lots of doors to knock on.......

A comfy spot to take a break......

And candy....

Lots and lots and lots of candy!

Happy Halloween sweet puppy girl!

Oxalis tuberosa.....

2011-09-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

I moved to the United States over twenty years ago.

At first, it was not forever.

It was a temporary excursion, for study.

Well, you know how the story goes,

girl meets boy........

Maybe it still won't be forever.

Only time will tell, I guess.

Now don't get me all wrong.....I love living here.

But, there are just some things that are a part of me.

Things that just aren't here.

Things that I can only find at home.

Or so I thought......

Meet Oxclis tuberosa

also known as the New Zealand Yam.

I found them......

I planted them......

and I am hoping like crazy that in four months,

I will be enjoying them.

And just so you know,

I won't share.

I have 20 years of yam eating to do.

Well, I will share with the boy,

since he scouted them out

for his kiwi girl.

Forever and Ever 4

2011-09-11T20:08:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we celebrated four years together as a family.

We celebrated four years since we crossed the threshold of our front door

into the uncharted waters of being parents.

We celebrated four years of this sweet, crazy, sassy girl,

who has made our lives complete.

We celebrated by doing nothing special,

and yet everything that is special to us.

Just being together with the ones we love (Kiwi family in our hearts),

and the ones that love us.

Of course a favorite day MUST include

playing Sofia cannonball.

She read books with Grandma Jean.

And played crazy with Papa.

And finished off a wonderful dinner with a Tres Leches cake

made with Sofia's help.

Yeah.....the grins on our faces pretty much sum it up.

Happy Forever and Ever Day, Chica Bella!!

We love you with all of our hearts.

The Ranch

2011-09-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend, we scored an invitation to "The Ranch".

Situated hilltop in the beautiful Sonoma Valley,

it was an invitation impossible to refuse.

And of course, being where we were,

and who we were with,

it is practically inconceivable to blog without photos of the food and wine that we consumed.

Unfortunately, I don't have pictures of the goodies that we enjoyed wholeheartedly at the Bouchon Bakery,

but you should trust me when I tell you that there was not a crumb left behind.

The birds that hung out under our bench were very disappointed.

LUNCH!

After lunch, a stroll up to the chicken coop.
Here chook, chook, chook , chook!

Come out, come out, wherever you are!

GOTCHA!

According to Sofia, hers was the golden egg.

(we've been watching a lot of Willie Wonka lately)

And, you've gotta have a pair of boots to fully enjoy all The Ranch has to offer.

Hold onto your socks....

the view from the top of the property.

Okay, so maybe these two smiles can top that.

Put them together,

and it's picture perfect!

Our mode of transportation to the top of the hill.

Now that was a blast.

The property has a hugemungous slide into a swimming pond.

Only two were willing to brave the slide.....

Sofia......

(well she may have been given a gentle push at the top :-)

She doesn't look all that happy about the situation,

and the truth is......

it didn't end well.

and Daddy.....

who managed to completely drown my camera, and me, in pursuit of the perfect shot

This was taken from my vantage point on the FAR side of the lake.

The back patio, where we spent most of our time.

Watching a pre-dinner movie outside.

The table is set......

A quick game of bocce....

(the rules of this particular game were a bit iffy,

but it does seem that Sofia and Jake are in agreement over perfect Bocce stance).

Ahhhhhh.....DINNER!

After dinner, we walked out to the point to watch the sun set.

I am not a photographer,

you just have to take my word,

that the sunset was a billion times more spectacular than these photos give it credit for.

It was breathtaking!

Couldn't pass up a swing.

And then,

as we left this morning,

to drive down the hill

back to reality.......

this is the sight that greeted us.

I felt like I was standing on top of the world.

BEAUTIFUL!!!

First Day of School

2011-09-02T20:32:00.000-07:00

This is the official shot of Sofia's first day at school.

She agreed to let me take her picture!

She did NOT agree to be serious about it.

She has taken to striking poses that she thinks are quite splendid

and making crazy faces.

And two days in, she is doing really well.

She loves all of her new teachers and is making lots of new friends.

She is also dog tired at the end of each day

which means that Mum and Dad are getting a little peace and quiet at the end of the day.

Salami Kisses

2011-08-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

Planted a big ole smaker on this silly face the other day.

"Mama!!

You got salami on my lips"

The Fair

2011-07-30T08:48:00.000-07:00

No summer would be complete without a trip to the State Fair.

Sofia and I pass by the fairgrounds every morning on our daily commute and she was gutted when they pulled it down and hauled it out of town last year. Trying to explain to a 3 1/2 year old that it will come back again, and just how long a year is, is no easy task.

So, you can imagine her utter delight when the Ferris Wheel reappeared again this year.

There was no holding her back!!

Of course, Sof had to find the one little critter in the petting zoo who looked sad and lonely. She had to fend off a hoard of hungry goats just to see if this little guy was hungry. He wasn't.

And the monster bunny was a hit.

This was the closest we got to a pony ride this year.

Sofia played the carnival games.

Not quite sure who had the brilliant idea to put a dart in the hands of a four year old.

But she did great,

and won her pillow pet fair and square on her own.

This ride was a hit again this year.....

...but she also was a little more daring.

Lunch in the wine garden, of course.

Mama and Daddy have to get a treat too.

And what a difference a year makes.

Last year Sofia wouldn't have dreamed about petting sturgeon.

This year, she couldn't get enough of them.

And some classics just can't be missed.

The garden area was particularly beautiful this year.

And Sofia got to hold "Snowball".

We saved the best for last......the back seat in the Rollercoaster.

Bye Fair!

We'll see you again next year.

RP's BEWARE

2011-07-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

This is a word of warning

to the humble Rolly Polly Bug....

BEWARE!!

If you choose to step your wee rolly polly body into our yard,

prepare to be poked, and prodded,

and kissed and loved.

Sofia thinks you are the coolest thing that ever rolled.

Beach Baby

2011-07-27T22:30:00.000-07:00

I have been neglectful of this blog now for quite some time,

but intend to make good on all of the activities that have been keeping our summer days full.

Recently, that was a trip back down to Southern California

to visit with some very dear friends

We went to the beach.

Sofia is a girl after my own heart.

She loved the sand.

She loved the wind.

She loved the waves.

She loved the treasures she found along the way.

Then she dug herself a big old hole in the sand,

planted her behind,

and relaxed.

Triathlon....check!

2011-07-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

1/2 mile swim

16 miles on the bike

and a 3 mile run

This weekend I became a triathlete

and it was a blast!

I got to train with some great people,

and under the guidance of the most amazing and inspirational woman.

This whole thing has been such a gift for me this summer.

I loved it so much that I have signed up for another.

With Nicole prior to the start.

The start of the swim.

Red caps are for the "old ducks".

We started last, but just as enthusiastically as the young kids up front.

Besides, red caps make you swim faster, right?

The end of the swim.

Glad to have that done and I only swallowed about 1/2 of the lake.

Off on the bike.

While I was out on the bike my cheerleeding team took a dip themselves.

And made me a sign.

Back again.......

.......and off on the run.

How can you not love a send off like this?

Coach Jamie finishing strong.

and me......#2102

crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 1 minute and 7 seconds.

Not too shabby for a first time.

Jamie and me, post race.

And some of my training buddies.

Can't wait to get out in the water, on the bike

and on foot with them again for the next race.

Beauty

2011-07-05T15:19:00.000-07:00

The Structure

2011-06-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

It arrived

in a whole stack of boxes

on the hottest day of the year.

Took many, many, MANY

man and women hours to construct, and finally,

after three full on days......

DONE!!

The cutest playhouse ever.

Sofia calls it "the structure".

Sofia and Jake have been playing to their little heart's content

late into these beautiful summer evenings.

And look at this girlie.

Never been on a swing in her life......she flat out has always refused to.

We were even going to leave the swings off

but decided that in the end her friends would like them.

WELL, just to prove us wrong,

she got on (sideways at first)

and has been swinging ever since.

Thanks Clyde, Papa, Meg and Dan

for assembling "the structure".

These kiddos are going to have a great summer.

Noodilicious

2011-06-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Summer has arrived

full force,

and with it

our little fish has also reappeared.

Sofia spends more time under the water

than she does on top of it.

She plays on the steps until her feet go raw.

And of course,

she noodles about.

Who doesn't like a good old noodle??

She loves just sitting and visiting with

the little mermaid.

And just to prove that it is not all mucking about

take a look at this diving form.

Toes are pointed and all.

Daddy

2011-06-20T23:06:00.000-07:00

Four years ago

we spent Father's Day

in Guatemala

getting to know our baby girl.

This was one of the few moments she slept......

at breakfast, Father's Day morning,

and we sat at that table

for as long as humanly possible

to get every last moment of sleep.

Father's Day weekend 2011,

camping and star gazing.

We have come to realize that sleep is not our girlies strong point.

But one thing is for sure....

Sofia is perfectly comfortable in her Daddy's arms.

Happy Father's Day

to the best Daddy a little girl could dream of.

Or so the story goes.....

2011-06-06T21:51:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a lovely evening together with some friends.

Sofia and Peter were playing all evening long really well together.

No tears, no fighting.

At one point, Sofia pointed out to me a small scratch on her ankle.

We put a band aid on it, and all was good.

This morning when I dropped her off at Geema and Papa's

this is how the conversation went....

To Geema:

Sofia: Look Geema.......I have an owie (pointing to the small scratch on her ankle)

Geema: Oh no!! How did that happen?

Sofia: Peter bit me!!

(I can assure you that no teeth were involved in the acquisition of said scratch)

To Papa (like one minute later):

Sofia: Look Papa......I have an owie (pointing to the same small scratch on her ankle)

Papa: How did you get that?

Sofia: Peter tried to kill me!!

This girl has a bit of a flair for the dramatic!

Oink!

2011-05-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

We licked the cookie batter off the beater.

We TOTALLY cleaned up the bowl.

Upon starting on the beater for the icing we asked......

"mama.....can I be a piggy pig again some day?"

Cast Out

2011-05-15T21:32:00.000-07:00

A new bedtime routine

has begun in our house.

It involves casting out of her room,

each and every night

a select few.

There is not rhyme or reason to this.

No way of knowing who it is going to be.

Every night, someone new.

We are given strict instructions on where to place them.

Usually,

on the couch,

or on the kitchen counter.

This is tonight's collection of misfits,

in no particular order.

Kiwi....Baby....George...Jessie.

Two of her all time favourites.

I am waiting for the day

that I can figure out exactly what goes through her head.

In the mean time,
I am keeping company with this lot tonight.

Candy Floss

2011-05-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

Sofia loves the PINK stuff!

She has, ever since she first tasted it.

We promised her on our annual trip to Great America

that she could have some......

IF,

they had it.

And

IF,

we didn't hear too much begging for it.

Well,

we turned the corner

and this little voice pipes up.....

"I smell something!"

Apparently, she has a nose for it,

because sure enough.......

More Eggs in the PM

2011-05-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

This child dyed more eggs this Easter

than ever before.

Coloring eggs with Grandma Jean....

.....and Papa!

This is what happens when you don't use a spoon.

Okay.......something's funny :-)

More beauties.

We tested the new game in Grandma Jean's pool.

Can't wait for it to be warm enough to test it out for real.

Maybe this weekend.

Beautiful Easter girl.

She picked this outfit out herself.

And finally, for Sofia, there is not a day that could end any better than with a bath, pj's and a book snuggling up with Papa.

Life is pretty good for this wee one.

Eggs in the Morning

2011-04-25T22:08:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like fresh eggs in the morning

or so I've heard.

Not a big fan of the egg thing myself.

Never have been.

But these two

sure make eggs a whole lot more appealing.

Only one casualty too!

Beautiful!

The Hunt

2011-04-25T21:14:00.000-07:00

Buckets were waiting.

There were eggs hidden everywhere....

and I mean....

EVERYWHERE!!

Two of the cutest kids arrived...

.....and hunted high,

and low.

Their buckets got fuller,

and fuller,

until there was nothing left to do,

but find a perfect spot,

and dig in.

Sick Day

2011-04-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

Let me start this post by saying that Sofia is not a very sick child.

I can probably count on two hands the number of days I have had to take off work to take care of her. And that is not too bad for a kid who spends three days a week around a whole bunch of other kids and their own little greeblie germs.

She is a real trooper when she is not feeling her tip top best.

So, on Thursday, when I went to drop her off at school, she had a fever and I decided, given tax season is over, to take her home (well, she actually came into my office for 2 1/2 hours so I could get some essentials done).

But after that, it was ALL Sofia and Mama.

Sofia got this princess fort building kit for Christmas, so what else could we do while the sheets were in the wash, but build a magic, feel better fort.

We spent hours in here....

reading

chatting

resting

rearranging

snuggling

hanging with her "friends"

It worked.

She's feeling great again.

Back Peddling

2011-04-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

I have been shockingly bad about keeping up with this blog.

But since it is refusing to really and truly turn into Spring around here,

I figured I could still get in some photos of some of our Winter fun.

This was Sofia's all time favourite event on our trip up to the snow.

She ditched the sled and opted for some good old bum sliding down the hill.

Lily and Sofia

2011-04-04T21:47:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to have a little group of Guat kiddos and their parents

who meet every couple of months....

somewhere

so the kids can play together,

and the mom's can compare stories about their feisty (for yes, that fire seems to be a common trait) tots.

It is nice to be able to chat

with people who have a shared experience,

and the same questions about adoption

that swirl about in my head all the time.

Every time we meet it seems that the kids have grown

and changed.....probably 'cause they have :-)

And this particular time,

maybe because it has been a few months since we attended one of these gatherings,

the big people were actually able to sit and visit with each other

and the kids were content, for the most part, to do their own thing.

Sofia was most excited to see her friend Lilyana.

These two are like chalk and cheese....

and yet somehow it doesn't seem to matter how long it has been since they have seen each other

and they fall into step

and become goofy, giggly, silly girls.

I love that they have this bond.

And I really hope that they can keep some form of it for,

as Sof would say,

a long, long, long, long,

LONG time.

This little game they had going on I was pretty sure was going to end in disaster....

but it didn't.

They look so much older in this photo than their 4 and 5 years.

This is where I get a glimpse of them at 13 and 14.

Goofballs.

I couldn't get a serious photo of them.

This is what I got when I asked for just one photo with a smile.

Goofballs again!!

This one was hilarious.

They were walking around the playground with their "walking sticks" saying

"we are the grandma's"

Happiness is having a friend who will just sit with you

and shoot the breeze

(oh yeah.....and have bark fights, and grass fights, and stick fights).

They are oh so cute.....

but feisty

remember?

Mr. Snowman

2011-03-17T22:36:00.000-07:00

Probably the highlight of the day.....

making a snowman.

And a mighty fine looking snowman he was.

Snow Play - Part 1

2011-03-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

This last weekend we snuck away for a quick trip to the snow.

How lucky are we to be so close to such a great winter playground?

We took Geema and Papa with us and headed for the hills.

Luckily, I bought a jacket extra big last year,

and we squished the feet into snowboots one size too small

and headed out to play.

I can't tell you how funny the following was

and unfortunately I didn't take a picture that adequately sets the scene.

But there were two of these contraptions that each took a dozen kids on a ride

around and around and around.

With their bums firmly squished inside the inner tube,

they were pulled round and round in circles

by a machine with four long posts

each with three kids and inner tubes attached.

First time around Sof was on the inside track

and this was about the extent of her excitement.

Second time, Daddy put her on the outside loop which traveled

a little faster much to the delight of our speed demon.

Gotta tell ya.....

sure beats me trying to pull her through the snow.

Jeeves

2011-03-13T18:23:00.000-07:00

Jeeves,

our first baby

and now almost 16 years old

had been losing weight and not looking the best.

One trip to the vet,

a prescription for some fancy (read expensive) food

and a month later

he has gained back the pound and a half (a lot for an 8 pound cat) he lost

looks terrific

and has his spunk back.

And much to the delight of Sofia

is constantly looking for a warm lap to snuggle up on.

Advice

2011-03-01T22:20:00.000-08:00

"Mama.....

your hair is a disaster"

"Tomorrow, you will get up,

take a shower,

soapy scrubby your hair,

and make it flat".

Really?????

Am I supposed to take fashion advise from someone who dons a get up like this one?

Four years ago

2011-02-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

Four years ago

this beautiful little face

popped onto my computer screen at work.
It took the breath right out of me
and I couldn't stop staring at her,
trying to figure out who she was,
what she was like.

It seemed to me she was looking right back at me
trying to figure the very same thing out for herself.

Four years on and

I count my blessings every day

that I get to hang out with this girl
and stare at her beautiful face
and watch her become the wonderful person that she is becoming.

To steal from a fellow adoptive mother....

It is Sofia's first mother who created this beautiful face

I am just the one lucky enough to help make it smile.

A mid-winter picnic

2011-02-13T16:19:00.000-08:00

Only in California is it possible......

to put on summer clothes

and picnic.

And throw rocks in the river....

And dip your toes in the water....

And submerge your bum in the sand......

Take a stroll hand in hand with your Daddy.....

And play catch in the warm breeze....

Only in California....

is it possible to have this much fun outside

in the middle of winter.

I hear the rain and cold temperatures are coming back full force this week.

So glad we made the most of this beautiful day.

Anti

2011-01-27T20:52:00.000-08:00

Sofia is very anti the camera right now.
Which is a real bummer since Mama got a brand spanking new camera for Christmas.

This is what happened when we proposed a family shot in front of the castle at "the happiest place on earth".

MAJOR MELTDOWN.

Apparently however, a family photo is permitted

when unhappy looking, life sized, furry donkeys are involved.

Teacups

2011-01-18T22:27:00.000-08:00

I'm still not sure who was happier about the tea cups at Disneyland.

Sofia, because she got to go around and around

faster, faster.

Or Clyde, because he finally has someone to ride his favourite ride with him.

It's all about.....

2011-01-15T21:44:00.000-08:00

the princesses.

and the fairies.

Sofia couldn't believe her luck.

She got to meet both of her favourites...

...Tiana and Silvermist.

But I think she might have a soft spot for Pocahontas now.

Sofia thought she was so pretty.

Faster....faster.....faster!!!

2011-01-10T21:12:00.000-08:00

Sof's Favourite

2011-01-10T20:01:00.000-08:00

Rain in the Tiki Room - Frightening

Nemo Submarine - Terrifying

But give this girl a roller coaster and she is as happy as a clam.

Total count was in the double digits over two days. It was her final choice to ride. After the fist couple of times she was saying "No Mama! Don't hold me". It scared me silly so what else could I do but video it?

Ringing in 2011

2011-01-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

We ended 2010 and rang in 2011 in great style last night

with friends, fine food and a whole lot of fun.

The rain very kindly held off and even though it was a little on the brisk side,

that didn't seem to dampen anyone's enthusiasm for

BUBBLES.

A whole bottle of bubble liquid in fact.

Sofia put this little number together herself.

Given that she was the only little girl there, she held up the pink side quite well on her own.

Eli was mezmorized by the bubbles.

Jake took matters into his own hands.

And Sof, well, she decided that dancing in bubbles was a good option.

Seems like a pretty good way to keep warm.

Last year I made fish and chips from some Alaskan Halibut that we had received as a gift and it went over pretty well so we decided why mess with a good thing.

We had the fish flown in, Clyde set the BBQ up as a cooking station,

and given the fact that there was nothing left on the table,

and everyone was trying to convince me to quite my day job and start driving the streets in a truck selling deep fried goodness,

I'd say it was pretty darn good.

The kids warming up around the fire.

There were sparklers.

And s'mores.

Oh yeah....it doesn't get much better than this.

I'm really not sure what is going on in the next couple of pictures

except to say that I think we've got it all wrong.

Apparently all three almost 4 year old's need to have fun is

a whole bunch of wet dirt....aka mud.

Personally, I don't see the appeal,
but it was hard to ignore all the laughing and smiles.

Quite possibly THE cutest toast in history.

Sharing a little New Year drink with Daddy.

Sofia saw in her very first New Year.

We all stayed up until midnight and rang in the New Year together.

Judging by how it started

I think 2011 is going to be a good one.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Let's go......

2010-12-28T22:49:00.000-08:00

.....to the movies.

Sofia and Jake's first "big" movie.

We went to see "Tangled" in 3D.

Sofia's room

2010-12-28T22:32:00.000-08:00

Sofia's room got a makeover this Christmas as well.

Her very own Charlie Brown tree

complete with not one but

TWO

Snoopys.

An infusion of new books.

And snowman sheets.

Decorating

2010-12-28T22:24:00.000-08:00

This year, Miss Sofia got very involved in the whole decorating process.

Music boxes were wound and listened to.....over and over again.

When Clyde and I were first married, our very first set of ornaments were a set of twelve that we ordered from the TV Guide from "A Charlie Brown Christmas".

This year, Sofia loved watching it and can name each character.

She decorated her branch. All of the ornaments were bunched up together.

We didn't tell her.

Somehow, they miraculously redistributed themselves after she went to bed.

Christmas is magical in many, many ways.

Our finished tree.

Every year, I think we have the most perfect tree ever.

This year was no exception.

Friends finally!

2010-12-28T22:12:00.000-08:00

It has taken three years

for Sofia to figure out how to sit still

and Jeeves to give her a chance.

Looks like it is going to be mutually beneficial.

The Last Bird

2010-12-24T14:31:00.000-08:00

Several years ago, we were given a beautiful birdhouse advent calendar. Each day leading up to Christmas has a door, and behind each door is a bird who comes out of their hidey hold and sits on a perch.

Last year Sofia got quite a kick out of pulling the birds out of their spot. Each one got a gentle kiss and was set out on their perch.

This year with another year under her belt, and a little help from her father, this beautiful tradition has turned into quite another story.

Don't get me wrong. She loves it!! The first thing she says when she wakes up is "We have to do a bird".

And then this is how it goes......

We position ourselves on the arm of the couch to get the best access.

We locate the appropriate number and tell Mummy and Daddy

"Now close your eyes!"

Then out comes the bird.

Not all birds get a kiss this year.

I am not sure what Sofia's criteria is for being on the receiving end of one of her sweet kisses.

......only she knows.

Now this is where the story starts to go a bit awry.

When the birds come out this year, apparently they are a bit hungry (after all, they have been hibernating for a whole year) and need to eat some of the berries around the top of the house.

And of course, Sofia's daddy couldn't help himself and told Sofia that if the birds ate too many berries, they were going to poop everywhere.

Why yes, you might recognize this face as the one where she knows she is going in to do something yucky, but oh so funny to a very almost four year old.

And yes.....it was this funny every morning.

Finally, well fed and pottied, perhaps with a kiss.....or not

the bird finds it's way onto the perch.

This morning, thank goodness, we did our last bird of the season.

Merry Christmas Eve to all.

Family Photo

2010-12-11T21:21:00.000-08:00

Some of you may, or may not, remember our attempt at a family photo at the

Singing Christmas Tree last year.

Not such a huge success.

Girlie was upside down......ugly beige wall.

You get the idea.

This year, not much of an improvement.

For starters, the girl decided that she wanted to squeeze into the same dress despite having a beautiful new one in her closet.

At least she stayed "upside up" as she says it.

There was no opportunity for the three of us, in something other than sweats to be photographed together.

But there were a couple of good ones.

Needless to say, for those of you who receive Christmas Cards from us,

the photo will be one of our very favourites from during the year.

It seems that a nice family photo just isn't our style.

Thankful

2010-12-03T20:34:00.000-08:00

As always,

we have ever so much to be thankful for....

For our families who put up with us without complaint.

And for good friends who put up with us too.

For joyous smiles.

And for a stunning if somewhat cold day to do something good.

For an extra 30 pounds so I didn't have to feel so guilty about seconds.

And for just being together

We have so much to be thankful for.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING.

(just a tad late)

Thanksgiving...... Snoopy Style

2010-11-26T22:13:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we got together with some friends for a little Thanksgiving dinner

Snoopy Style

We watched the Peanuts Thanksgiving movie and then Sofia and Lilyana showed off their coloring style.

There was popcorn, and pretzels and jellybeans.

Of course, those pesky adults insisted that the kids eat a real meal as well.

Then the kids got to make Turkey cupcakes.

Meg demonstrated proper turkey cupcake technique.

Good form Jake. I know where he got this from.

Ahhhh yes, the concentration of a three year old. Gotta get those tail feathers just so.

Each kid made their very own prize turkey.......

.....and then there was nothing else to do but to dig into some Turkey butt.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Eggnog

2010-11-23T23:25:00.000-08:00

Look who's discovered eggnog!

Papa....you might want to put a lock on your refrigerator Thanksgiving Day

there's going to be an Eggnog Monster in your house.

Smilin' in the Rain

2010-11-19T22:11:00.000-08:00

This photo was snapped by Grandpa Robin

while we visited him in San Francisco a couple of weekends ago.

Sofia might have been smiling because she got to use her umbrella for the very first time this year.

Maybe it was because we were on our way out for lunch in one of the greatest cities in the world.

Perhaps she knew about her plans to jump in a mighty puddle.

And, undoubtedly it had something to do with seeing Grandpa, who she adores.

Who can really know for sure.

What we do know though, is that she is just plain adorable in this photo,

and there was absolutely no way we were going to lose sight of her dressed in this little number.

More Fun

2010-11-11T22:15:00.000-08:00

More photos from the Pumpkin Patch Picnic.

I really have nothing more to say about this day

than I wish I had a good camera

and I wish I knew how to use it.

Because even I can recognize that

a stunning landscape,

and a dramatic sky,

plus the most adorable kiddos

with precious smiles

makes for good photos.

Happy Halloween

2010-11-04T23:08:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl, there was no such thing as Halloween in New Zealand.

But I have to say, that this is fast becoming my very favourite holiday of all.

Mainly because I get to see my beautiful baby dress as a dragonfly...with sequins.

and play with her friends.

Nothing like playing balloons with a very good witch.

And pin the nose on the Jack-o-Lantern with Buzz Lightyear and a pirate.

Oh yeah....and a massive Whoopee Cushion.

My super cute dragonfly.

Then some trick-or-treating.

And some perfectly perfect accessories.

Dragonflies do have orange fangs, don't they?

Sweet friends.

One house was giving away toys......real toys.

Sofia picked out Xena (how fitting).

Examining the loot (notice that poor old Xena has been ditched in favour of candy).

Then all hell broke loose when the whoopee cushions came out.

I have never heard such laughter.

Happy Halloween Miss Sofia.

And thanks to our wonderful friends and family who made it an evening to remember.

Where does it go?

2010-11-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

Someone please tell me.....

Where does the time go?

Caramel Apples

2010-11-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

In preparation for our Halloween festivities,

Sofia and Jake made

Caramel Apples.

And we're really sorry if anyone had an already bitten into apple.

Apparently they were just too delicious and had to be tasted even before the caramel got involved.

Then they decided that they would just eat the sprinkles (or sparkles as Sofia calls them).

No apples or caramel required.

No wonder as we were leaving Sofia said....

"THAT WAS GREAT FUN!!"

A Halloween Story

2010-10-30T16:24:00.001-07:00

Cupcake

2010-10-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

There's not much else to say about this...

the smile says it all!

Sherwood

2010-10-24T20:24:00.000-07:00

I know I've said this a million times before

but we are so blessed to live in a wonderful neighbourhood

filled with even more wonderful people.

So one set of our neighbours have property down the Delta

and created a Pumpkin Patch

just for our enjoyment.

One of the featured attractions at R&J's patch was

SHERWOOD

who very patiently and very gently took all of the kids

for a ride.

Miss Sofia was in her element.

Now I'm not much of a horsey person but you've got to admit

this is one beautiful horse.

And this is one pretty happy little girl.

Thank you Sherwood!

October's

2010-10-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

Remember this?

October 2007

A lot has changed since then.

The littlest is now the biggest.

Each has developed their own very unique personality.

The boys are very definitely boys.

And the girl has become one very tough (one might say bossy) little lady.

But so much is still the same.

Still the best of friends.

The skunk can still make his little ladybug cry (not often though).

Still can't get them all to look at the camera at the same time :-)

And still as cute as ever.

Happy Face

2010-10-21T20:54:00.000-07:00

Sofia started going to a new school a couple of months ago.

For the first month things were great. She was happy and hardly even glanced at me as I drove off.

Then I think it settled in.

This is for real.

Well.......things have changed. And the last month has been a challenge for the both of us.

I have had my fair shares of

tears

and cuddles

and "Mummy I don't want you to go to work"'s

and "Mummy, I'm going to miis you when you are gone"'s.

Each one breaks my heart just a little bit more.

I know she is fine.

I know she is safe.

I know, that once I am gone,
she runs and plays and sings and learns and makes new friends.

But this morning,

this morning

my beautiful daughter was so brave.

There were no tears before we left the house.

There were no tears in the car.

And when we got to school she held it together for a little while.

And then when I gave her her hug goodbye,

she told me that she was going to put on her happy face.

And as I walked away from her

she stood there with tears streaming down her cheeks

and a big grin plastered on her sweet face.

No one told me being a Mum was going to be this hard.

Pickin' Pumpkins.....

2010-10-20T20:42:00.000-07:00

.....is serious business.

And don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Billy Goat Love

2010-10-17T17:19:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken on our annual trip to Bishop Farm.

There were a billion goats, baby and some not so baby

and Sofia felt it was her duty to have a chat with each and every one.

Most of them also received a kiss.

I eventually had to tell her to stop kissing the goats.....it was grossing me out.

A Helping Hand

2010-10-05T20:11:00.000-07:00

Even Papa needs a helping hand

wheeling a pumpkin

this

HUGE-MUNGUS

up the hill.

Fishy, fishy, fish

2010-10-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Homecoming

2010-09-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to Clyde's old high school for Homecoming.

Sofia had a great time.

She didn't care that the football team were losing.....badly!

She was just thrilled that she got to watch football and hang out with her daddy.

And eat popcorn......

And listen to the band......

And lend her own talents......

Daddy got to catch up with some of his friends from high school.....

And we watched our very first set of real fireworks.....

Hospital Corners and all

2010-09-25T21:59:00.000-07:00

This is the way we have found Sofia's bed after the last two naps she has taken.

I don't know how long it takes her to make it.

And, I don't know where she learned how to do it.

Certainly not from her mother :-)

And I just love the way Penny is place smack dab in the middle.

Do you think it is too much to ask that this continue through the teenage years?

Jungle Room

2010-09-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago I got a new camera.

Just a point 'n' shoot little thing but it has video on it.

I asked Sofia if she would do a dance so we could test it out.

She chose her favourite song "jungle room"

and danced her heart out.

I'm not sure if these are the moves she has been learning in her ballet classes.

Worth every penny if you ask me.

Happy Fall

2010-09-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of Autumn.

This is, by far, my absolute favourite time of year.

Happy Happy Happy Fall.

Painting

2010-09-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

So I have been thinking this week

A LOT

about this article what-should-a-4-year-old-know that Clyde posted on his FaceBook page.

I am guilty.

100% (okay maybe only 75%).

So when Sofia told me she wanted to paint at "Art Beast" after her nap today,

I decided that I should take this matter into my own hands.

Sofia has owned this easel for almost two years. It came from Santa and the paints that were included have remained unopened and out of reach.......until today.

We moved it outside and let her have at it.

Things started out fine. All of the right paintbrushes in the right cups.

And we're looking pretty happy.

Okay so now we've got two brushes going at once.

Yip, all is lost now. The hands are involved.

Although I will admit that when Sofia offered to paint my hands, I politely declined.

This little girl is precious to us.

We want EVERYTHING for her.

But, maybe I have done her a disservice....

by buying her the mud kitchen but not letting her know about the dirt component.

And getting her the easel and hiding the paint.

I think this smile confirms my suspicions.

Forever Day Tres

2010-09-07T21:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we celebrated our third Forever and Ever Day.

Three years ago, this precious little being was placed in our arms forever.

So we celebrated with family and good friends doing all of our favourite things.

We swam.....or in Sofia's case, relaxed poolside.

We ate burgers and chippies outside under a perfectly perfect sky.

I tried my hand at a Tres Leches cake. I don't particularly like cake, but word was that it was pretty good. Who knew that a sponge cake could soak up that much liquid.

And we just enjoyed being a family.

What a blessing this little girl is.

We love, love, love you Sofia!

Changes

2010-08-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

Things are a changing around here.

I am not sure exactly where the time has gone. Blink, and boom it's gone. I know this comes as no big surprise to most of you. I have always heard people say this.....especially those with children, and go figure, it's true.

My little girl is growing up!

It's hitting me in several ways right now.

Firstly, she is starting a new school. It is a bittersweet move for all of us. Sofia has been going to Miss Wendy since she was 9 months old - almost three years now. During that time, there has not been a day when I have not been anything but happy to drop her off there. She has loved every moment of it. She has loved the friends she has made, the teachers she has had and the whole routine of it.

She has reached so many milestones there. She learned how to crawl, to walk there. She went down the "big" slide there. She learned to count to twenty, her colours, her alphabet (in phonics as well) there. She has painted and drawn, and learned songs there. Being an only child, she has learned to make friends and play with others (nicely) there.

She has been loved there.

What Miss Wendy and her school has given Sofia has been priceless to us.

But, time marches on and we decided that it was time for Sofia to move on as well.

Tonight, we had orientation at Sofia's new school and we are all pretty excited about it.

I think it will be challenging for her, which is good She is going to have to be more self sufficient and she is going to be the "baby" again. But she has always liked to try and keep up with the big kids so I don't believe this will phase her at all. The girl has got spunk......she'll do fine.

What remains to be seen is just how well Mum's going to do.

Secondly, I just have to get in writing how proud I am of Sofia in case one day she feels like wading through this blog.

I will be the first to admit that "3" has not been our best time together. There have been A LOT of tantrums, some serious hitting and kicking instances and a fair amount of raised voices (from both parties). There were many "just walk away" moments (for both parties). And don't even get me started on the whinging.

Well, you get the picture.

Anyway, another thing that those experienced in rearing children tend to tell you is that "this too will pass" and by crikey apparently they are right about that as well.

I have always been proud to go out with my daughter, but last night was a whole different experience for me and Sofia.

We had the opportunity to go out and listen to Daddy play with the Sacramento Jazz Orchestra. The gig was at 5:00pm so well before Sofia's bed time and we met Geema and Papa, and Darlene and Jon there to listen. Our plan was to stay for a little while and then head home.

Well, to start with, Sofia looked beautiful. She picked out her dress and shoes and let me brush her hair. I don't have a picture, but ask anyone who was there......it was enough to take your breath away.

She sat and listened. She drank her apple juice out of a big cup without spilling a drop. She visited with everyone at our table, giving all a smile, a little conversation or a little lap time. She clapped when appropriate and danced when she just couldn't help herself.

Yes, she had a little entertainment in the form of Mummy's i-Touch, and we took one long trip back from the bathroom to check out the hotel swimming pool, but for a 3 1/2 year old at a real jazz concert......well I just couldn't be prouder of the way my daughter conducted herself.

And the cutest thing by far, was when Clyde came off the stage (yes we ended up staying for the whole thing), she looked up at him and asked

"Daddy, did you have fun?"

I have always been proud of my daughter

and yes, I am sure those experienced parent people would tell me "enjoy it while it lasts".

So, that is exactly my plan!! I will take their advice and thoroughly enjoy all of the recent changes in Sofia.

Into the Redwoods

2010-08-29T07:51:00.000-07:00

Visiting Roaring Camp in Felton for a steam train ride into the Redwoods.

The Boardwalk

2010-08-18T21:04:00.000-07:00

Monday, we headed out to the boardwalk at Santa Cruz.

Sofia couldn't get her shoes off quickly enough......

to do a little of this......


and some of this!

Her first taste of Candy Floss!

And yes...it is all over her forehead and her fingers. And was soon after coated in sand.


We headed to the rides. This is Sofia's "this is going to be 'citing" face.

And for good reason.

She won herself a furry friend.....

.....and rode high in the sky.

Daddy was too scared to take Sofia on this ride but it was the one she wanted to do most of all and if Mummy hadn't whacked her head with the turnstile getting on she would have loved the whole thing.

But you can always count on a carousel to put a smile back on this face.

A Beach to Ourselves

2010-08-17T08:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning, amid much protest from the youngster, we headed to the beach right across the road from our campground. And aside from two surfers who made a brief appearance, we had the place all to ourselves.

As soon as those wee toes hit the sand, we forgot that we didn't want to go to the beach and we played, and ran, and flew, and explored.

Daddy's Hat

2010-08-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

There is nothing funnier to Sofia than stealing her Daddy's hat.

It can quite seriously keep her entertained for hours.

Kite

2010-08-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

Clear blue skies

A big patch of green grass

A great breeze

And not a power line in sight.

Perfect conditions for Sofia's ladybug kite to take to the skies.

Swinging

2010-08-16T08:13:00.000-07:00

Ever since Sofia was a teeny tiny baby she has not been a big fan of swings.

Give this child something to slide down or jump on and she is a happy camper.

Swinging.......not so much.

This trip she has made a bit of a break through on the swing front.

Now don't get me wrong. I don't think she will ever be the kid who swings as high as they can go and then jump off.

But she was sitting and swinging all by herself

and all of her own choice.

Vacation Time

2010-08-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

The end of summer vacation is upon us

but we are determined to enjoy what is left of our warm days and free time.

We have hit the road once more.

We have the Pacific Ocean on our doorstep

and some fun plans for the next few days.

Does this girl look happy to be on vacation?

I sure am.

Playdate

2010-08-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

Today we had a play date with Jake. His mom headed off really, really early to compete in a triathlon and so Jake was at our door before 6:00am this morning. We tucked him into bed beside Sofia in the hopes that he would fall asleep and allow us all to continue to slumber.

WHO WERE WE KIDDING!!!

Sof was thrilled to wake up and see her best mate beside her.

So off we went....

Breakfast at Pancake Circus.

5 pancakes and bacon devoured by one wee person (and that was brekkie # 2 of the morning).

Bike ride to the park.

And a visit to FTT.

Reading with Mother Goose.

A slide built for two......CUTE!

Quick break for refueling.


And some pondering.....


This one cracks me up. They love each other, of that I am sure but there is NO WAY Sofia is going to let Jake out of that tepee first. Not on your life mate!!

We finished up with each of them getting their faces painted. Sofia loves this stuff. We find ourselves walking extra distances just to avoid her spotting the face painting stall.

No such luck today.

Sofia got her rainbow and Jake got spidey.

Needless to say, we arrived home, fed them lunch and put them both to bed, in the same room and I'll let you imagine just how well that went :O)

Ballerina

2010-07-31T21:44:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday, Sofia is going to attend her first ballet class. Well, they call it "creative movement" and I have no doubt at all, that my girl will create her very own kind of movement.

Since the day we first met Sofia, she has moved to the sound of music. She LOVES to dance. Half the time I don't even think she realizes that she is dancing. But guaranteed, if music is playing, her little body is going to be doing it's own thing.

She has been taking music classes since she was less than a year old and they have been fantastic. She has loved every minute of them, but has aged out. I have been looking for something else for her to do, but nothing has jumped out at me.

Then, the other night, as we headed home from dinner out, I see all of these little girls in leotards coming out of the Sacramento Ballet building. I told Clyde to pull over and went in and asked them about classes.

"How old do they need to be?" I asked.

"3 and a 1/2"

"Ohhhhh" I say...."she was 3 and a 1/2 last week."

PERFECT!

They are in summer session right now but Sofia can come by on Tuesday for a drop in. Now normally, she would have a swim lesson with June on Tuesday, but June is going to be on vacation so she is free to try out the dance class and see if she likes it. Coincidence? I don't know.

What I do know, is that we came home and tried on the ballet outfit that we got from Jake for our birthday.

And, that we are super excited about our first class.

The big question is whether or not Daddy is going to be able to do something acceptable with the hair since I will be at work.

And if the ballet teacher can tame this little pistol.

And we have been checking out pictures of Mummy in her first ballet class, when she was a little girl (on the right). I don't think I ever possessed the kind of spirit that Sofia has, but I do think I looked pretty cute in PINK.

A Wish

2010-07-30T20:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the most glorious Sacramento evening.

We decided to eat dinner outside.

Sofia wanted to sit at her own little table so we layed her place.

As a special treat I lit her very own candle on her table.

At the end of dinner I told Sofia that she could blow out her candle.

She said "I can make a wish?"

I told her to "wish away".

When she was done I asked her what she wished for (I know you're not supposed to do that but I wanted to know).

She turned around and said "Geema and Papa".

Come home soon Geema and Papa

the girlie is missing you.

The Fair

2010-07-28T22:50:00.000-07:00

This afternoon, I played hookie from work and we found ourselves at the fair.

And, we did it ALL.

Tractors, Corn, Icees, Baby Animals and big ones too.

Ponies, Merry-go-rounds, Tree Houses and Prizes.

Ice Cream, Corn Dogs, Wine (for the adults) and the Monorail.

New Friends, Roller Coasters, Airplanes and Boats.

And of course the "fairest wheel".

WOW!!

To quote Sofia....."I'm toasted out!"

Happy Birthday Jake

2010-07-23T22:36:00.000-07:00

Today Sofia's best friend turns 3.

Jake is the closest thing she has to a sibling,

and at 1 1/2 months old was one of the first people she met when she came home.

He made her cry dressed as a skunk on their very first Halloween.....

is the perfect wagon partner........


is the very best person to sit and take a break with.......

or to throw straw at......


to share a spot of candy with.......

or a day at the park........

For Sofia, no one is better than her Jake to make memories with........


and to just love on.

Happy Happy 3rd Birthday dear sweet Jake.

We love you!

Our little Merpeople

2010-07-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

Sof and Jake have been taking swim lessons this summer.

Jake was, how shall we say this.....a little less than enthusiastic about the whole swimming thing.

There were many tears.

Well, something changed pretty quickly in Sofia's wee friend, and he has become a right little water rat.

And no one was more proud of Jake than Sofia.

She proudly exclaimed, when I asked her how Jake did at swim class one day......

"He's a mermaid too!"

Conversations with Sofia

2010-07-17T20:35:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is, but most of our most interesting conversations these days happen in the bathroom.

Sofia: I want to go potty like this, like Jakey.

Me: Sofia, we don't go potty that way. You are a girl. Girls sit down to go potty.

Sofia: When I'm a big girl boy I'll go potty like Jakey.

Really.......what are you supposed to say to that?

I want to ride my bicycle.

2010-07-12T22:31:00.000-07:00

Look at this....

Clyde and Sofia were given this trailer bike as an end of school year gift.

It seems like just yesterday that she was sitting in a little seat

in between her daddy's arms on his bike.

Now look at her.....

The 4th

2010-07-07T21:34:00.000-07:00

Have I told you that we live in the most amazing neighbourhood?

One of the best decisions we ever made was moving here.

Our block has a 4th of July bash in the street every year, and in fact, it was at one of these events, 5 years ago when I first decided that I was ready to adopt.

One friend was pregnant, another in the throws of it and by god, I was not going to be left out any longer.

Clyde had a gig.....a 4th of July gig.

I finished out the party on my own.

He came home and I announced that we were going to adopt.

We started researching agencies the very next day.

So, aside from the usual reasons to celebrate on the 4th, which I love,

I will always have a special place in my heart for this celebration.

It is especially fun to see Sofia celebrate it with the boys

who helped push me into, without question,

the BEST decision of my life.

There were water balloons (which Sofia loved to throw, although at no one in particular). I don't think she popped more than about five. Hers just bounced down the street and she was all good with that.

Lots of friends and Geema and Papa.

Pinatas, candy, popsicles

and

SPARKLERS!!!

The only thing I didn't get a photo of was my beautiful girl in her rw&b bikini.

Movie Night

2010-07-06T20:17:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had our first attempt at an outdoor movie.

We invited family and friends and watched a movie with all the usual fixin's (aside from Jaffas.....I was all out. I am still not convinced I would have shared even if I had of had some in the house.)

Not sure what is going on in this photo......I think Sofia must have passed on some advice from Papa to Dan. He tells her that when you get to the scary parts you have to cover your eyes. It's alright Dan, we know that those Looney Tunes cartoons can be a bit scary.

Sofia had been waiting for days to try out the "copcorn".

It didn't dissappoint. Popcorn on the BBQ is pretty damn cool.

There has already been a request for the next show so stay tuned.

Th....th....that's all folks!!

The Pink Machine

2010-07-04T22:30:00.000-07:00

Sofia received a big girl bike for her birthday 6 months ago.

Unfortunately, she was not too thrilled with it (even though she apparently loved it in the store) and insisted on riding her "little bike".

So, we decided to take it out of the garage the other day and this time, she rode that bright pink machine all over the place.

Of course, no trip around the block would be complete without the mandatory stop at the fire hydrant which is where Sofia takes our orders, rattles the chain and produces whatever food we have requested.

This time was a little different than usual and she demanded money from us before she would produce our food.

Back on the road again.

Look at that face.

Well done, Sofia!!!