Worth the wait... Our adoption journey

New blog

2007-02-01T16:03:00.000-12:00

This is the last post on this blog...
please follow our journey on http://gaynesadventuresinparenting.blogspot.com

The End of the Road

2007-02-01T03:58:00.001-12:00

We have come to the End of the Road with Sophie's adoption.
We pray for her future, as it will not be with us. Thank you all for your kind words, support, and prayers.

We need to have patience and understanding...

2007-01-31T06:57:00.000-12:00

is what our case co-ordiantor said to us today when we called to see if things were arranged to take Sophie's BM to the Embassy interview. Pardon me, but WHAT THE MOTHER GOOSE!!! Patience, um 16 months, understanding? Gee I'm sorry I really should have tried to understand what she must be going through, MY BAD. Three Embassy appointments missed by the BM who was "in jail" (still no proof), no proof that she they still know where she is... But they're right I really should have thought about their needs... Instead of hers:

My Little Model

2007-01-28T14:43:00.000-12:00

We took Luke to do Kiddie Kandids today... He did great!! He's SO handsome... I can't decide whihc my favorite picture is!

Shopping with Mommy

2007-01-26T03:16:00.000-12:00

Well Mommy was sick yesterday, still am, upper respitarory infection. I love the Robetussin w/ codine! Wonder where I got it from
It's a little chilly here in Florida... Dropping into the 40s... I'm not sure Luke likes being bundled... But everyone in Publix sure loved to stop and talk to him

My Dunkin Doughut

2007-01-24T14:34:00.000-12:00

Last week we took Luke to his Mikvah... The last step... He's official a member of the tribe... YUP LUKE IS JEWISH!!! His Hebrew Name is Leib Yancuv(spelling is definatly wrong).

Oh yes my friends its tax time again!!!

Hey Mom WHAT THE HECK IS THIS AMERICAN IDOL? This dude sucks... But is sure is funny!

Tagged

2007-01-23T06:13:00.000-12:00

I was tagged by Farrah whose Madisyn was realeased from jail, oops I mean PGN for 6 weird things about me.

1. I can not have liquids on my food plate, bowls yes, plate no. If my steamed veggies are soggie, I put them on another plate, dry the plate and put them back on my plate.

2. I can not sleep with the closet door even partially open, has to be shut completely (ask my husband, drives him CRAZY)

3. Can not sleep with any clocks showing the time in the room (also drives hubby crazy)

4.I can pick up almost anything with my toes, why bend over and risk hurting your back, break a toe, G-D gave you 10 of them!

5. My room is a disaster, but my work space is perfectly in order

6. I secretly want to be an American Idol contestant

Luke's Moonwalkin

2007-01-22T13:47:00.000-12:00

I can't get it on video... He crawls backwards...and walks backwars..It's the cutest thing ever!!
Luke's still under the weather, he's really fussy in spurts, and then he's fine
Well the next month is going to be VERY busy. Extremely busy at work auditing the Sheriff, Property Appraiser, and Supervisor of Elections of Osceola County. Wow 4 fun packed weeks, oh and then there's that whole unpacking thing!

Happy birthday Daddy

2007-01-21T12:53:00.000-12:00

Today was Daddy's 32nd Birthday!!!
And how did we spend it? We had to take poor Luke to the doctor... It started Thursday with sneezing... Then last night I woke up and he was next tome, and it was like having a hot water bottle next to me, I didn't have a thermometer, but I'm going with 102. We gave him Tylenol (not an easy feet). The next morning he was ok, but not eating, and around 11 I took his temp and it was 100, so we took him to the walk in urgent care. Ear infection yuck!
(Notice the shirt...it says My Mama is blogging this)

On a side note I should find out my new travel dates tomorrow!!! Im not too upset about post-poning my travel since I have alot of work, and Luke is sick...etc... Think I convice myself?

THE LAST COMMENT I WILL POST ON

Well, I don´t want to be mean but really I feel very sorry for these kids for a number of reasons. Apparently it wasn´t too long ago that you were in hospital because of bulimia and apparently not well yet(honestly both of you seem to have serious eatingdisorders) and now with your bad health you are adopting FOUR kids. Your family is actually living up to all the predujdices I had about ignorant americans, that you like exaggerations in everything, in this case poor adoptivekids! That you are booth highly educated doesn´t mean a thing in this case because it´s so clear that you don´t know anything about adopted kids and their special needs- it´s a far different thing from having (four)biological kids and it´s very naive and ignorant to think something else. How do you for ex think that four adoptivekids that are not siblings from the beginning and who have been through at least two serious separations, and maybe more traumas, will attach? It´s hard enough work with just ONE adoptivechild. I´m not writing this because I´m jelous and I do think It´s perfectly alright to adopt four kids but to adopt them one at a time and make sure that one child really is attached and secure before you get another one. And also that you are sure about your own health and strength before you have more children. I really start wondering how the socialworkers and authorities in your country can allow this...and I´m beginning to understand why China changed their rules... As I said I feel sorry for these kids, maybe you are kind and loving people with lots of friends and family but it´s not enough if you continue to be naive about this. I suggest you at least read a couple of books and research about adoptivekids to learn more before they all arrive. I hope it will work out allright!

Dear Another Scandaninavian
Well my blog is just a "glimpse if my life". I do not detail every book that I have read about adoption (I have a full library).
How many children do you have? Are any of them adopted? Is your life perfect? My blog title clearly states that I created this blog to allow my friends and family to follow us, obviously you are neither. Easy way for those in Scandinavia who are in uproar about my life, don't read my blog!

Sad day

2007-01-19T09:13:00.000-12:00

I will not be leaving Monday for Vietnam... I don't know when I will be going... Guess Helene's happy (at least somebody is)

Here come the judge here come the jude

2007-01-19T01:48:00.000-12:00

Its official... LUCAS JACOB GAYNES

I finally got a hold of David's camera....
So here are pictures of our Guatemalan Thanks Giving!

Thanks to my blogger "family"

2007-01-17T15:47:00.000-12:00

All I Can say is WOW!
I was really angry at that comment (there is a second comment by Helene (not my cousin) in Luke & the Chef that is twice as nasty but I'm not going to bother responding, it is very amusing to read though)
I will respond to my blog family... Many of you I have never met face to face, but I feel I know you, I have watched your children grow and you have seen mine grow. We have gone through many triumphs and set backs together, this is what makes us a family. Outsiders do not get it... But we are a family... And our family is growing everyday as more people choose adoption...

On a side note today Luke had his Mikvah, he is officially Jewish! Pictures tomorrow... Oh and tomorrow is Luke's re-adoption! Busy week for us irresponsible Gaynes'!

Dear Helene (and not my cousin)

2007-01-16T13:58:00.000-12:00

Well Helene thanks for posting and reading my blog...
In response to your question and I'm paraphrasing .. Who adopts 4 children at once are we irresponsible, naive or what?
Well my husband and I have been called a lot of things in the past two years , neither of which has been naive or irresponsible. I don't think the social workers (we had two done by two different people) would call us irresponsible. We are actually professionals. I am a CPA and my husband is an attorney. We worked very hard to be able to be in a position to be able to adopt and provide for four children. Of course we could not do this without the support of our family, but this does not make us irresponsible.
We tried invetro, if I had gotten pregnant with multiples, would that make us irresponsible?
As for naive, well we are prepared. We have the built in support of my mother in law who encourages us and supports us everyday. We also are responsible enough to have in place a nanny to help my husband whom works from home.
Naive or irresponsible? I don't think so, selfish in wanting a large family, definatly!

Luke and the Chef

2007-01-15T13:50:00.000-12:00

Well I went to visit my Mom this weekend, I wanted to see her before I went to Vietnam.

Sophie Gate 2006err 2007 Update

2007-01-14T13:45:00.000-12:00

Well as you might have guessed Sophie's BM was not released from jail on Wednesday... We were told that she would then be released Friday... Althose who think that she was released on Friday say aye... I don't hear anything.... Hmm maybe tomorrow.. Apparently they couldn't find the Warden to release her (um who still uses the term Warden?)
In Luke news, Luke is running everywhere! And what a big mouth... He yells DAVID (I wonder where he got that from)
Pictures tomorrow`,... Gotta pack for Vietnam!

Got tissues?

2007-01-08T16:53:00.000-12:00

Before I post my video for Sophie I'd like to say GO GATORS!!!! David went to UF ( I am a Hurricane through and through)!

Make an online slideshow at onetruemedia.com

Also I have setup a private blog for my trip to Vietnam, please email me if you would like to be included let me know how I know you!

The Sunshine of my life

2007-01-07T15:25:00.001-12:00

Well I finaly got up with the times and did a video montage of Luke...
I don't know what I am going to do being away from him for 3 weeks, going to work is hard enough... I truly can't imagine loving anyone more than I love my son... Now we are getting the twins, how much love can one heart hold? I love my son more than anything, soon I will be saying how much I love my twins... And of course Princess Sophie, who I think about day and night... Soon she will be home to... And too think a year ago it was just me and David

Make an online slide show at onetruemedia.com

Tickets... The return of Turtle

2007-01-06T13:29:00.000-12:00

We finally got my tickets to Vietnam... 2:30AM Saturday morning.... UGH what a mess.. Now on t the hotel... ANd Lily has her own seat on the return flight... Apparently they were not smart enought to figure out that they should sit next to me!

Luke got a blow up chair that Aunt Farrah blew up! He couldnt decide if he liked his blow up chair or his drum chair...

Ticket hell!

2007-01-05T17:37:00.000-12:00

We are going into hour #5 of getting my tickets to Vietnam... UGH!!! The dossier was easier to do than get my friggin tickets... Seriously... Since we have twins, I have to pay for a lap ticket and a one way ticket... OY VEY... We have spoken to EVERY airline! I haven't even tried to book my hotel yet!
Luke is asleep in HIS OWN BED!!!!
Here's pictures of my cutie (Oh and I did spell check for Ba Noi (that's Vietnamese for Grandma)

Um did I mention

2007-01-04T03:23:00.000-12:00

IM GOING TO VIETNAM!!!! We got travel... I will be leavign Janauary 22nd to be there January 25th- February10th.... Stay tuned Too excited to POST!
Pictures of the big brother

The Tale of Turtle

2007-01-01T15:17:00.000-12:00

It started out a good day in the Gaynes household. We started unpacking, picked out blinds, I worked for 12 hours.
Then the unthinkable happened... Turtle's batteries dies, and we do not have replacements. This is a YEAH FOR MOMMY... Cause I have had it with Funky town!
Yesterday while I was unpacking groceries, Luke put Turtle in the Fridge and brought his piabo over to play to it
Rest assured we will get new batteries tomorrow

Moving, Turtle & Geeks OH MY

2006-12-31T13:31:00.000-12:00

Well we are moved (somewhat) into the new house. Friday was SUPPOSED to be moving day, movers were supposed to show up between 12-3. They showed up at 8:30 Saturday morning, UMMM a little late? We had have a nanny come a few mornings a week to help out (David works out of the house, and little Luke can be a wee bit Demanding), so we had her come, FOR NOTHING.
So we moved Saturday, they managed to only break a few things, hopefully we can get some of them fixed.
Luke's room is ALL BACKYARDIGANS. We got him a BY bed in a box, cam with a toddler bed, toy box and a table and chairs so CUTE! He loves it!!!
We tried to get a wireless network ourselves..... That was a no go! Geeks to the rescue... We called the Geek Squad, theya re so cool, they came out within a day had our house networked ready to roll!
Luke has this toy turtle he takes EVERYWHERE! It is so annoying, it plays "Won't yout ake me to FUNKY TOWN". He was so scared of it at first now he loves it!

Mommy we're moving tomorrow

Hey look Madisyn's Mommy and Daddy came to help us (especially put my bed together!
I like it SO much I slept in it (well half the night anyway!)

Who's this GEEK? Oh he's gonna fix the internet? YES!

WOW... A Driveway... My riding carts go up and down! Oh Turtle we're finally going to funky town!

MADNESS!!!!!!

2006-12-29T02:17:00.000-12:00

Sorry I have plenty of pictures to post, but I forgot to bring my cable... Madness?
Last night was our 4 year anniversary!!! Woo Hoo! David bought me a beautiful necklace, and I got him the complete box set of Doctor Who and I promised hime I would sleep through it, I mean watch it with him. We went to an AMAZING restarant Seasons 52
SOOOOO GOOOOOOOD... Desserts come in shot glasses....
But alas I went back to work till 9:30 after dinner... These audits are killing me! In Fl the Florida statutes dictate that a COunty has 5 constitutional officers: Supervisor of Elections, Property Appraiser, Sheriff, Tax Collector, & Clerk of COurts. Each officer is a unique audit, which is then combined into a larger audit of the Board of County Commissioners called an Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR). Right now I am in charge of the 5 consitutional officers of Seminole county, Fl. The audit reports are due 12/31- I hvae the Sheriff, Property APpraiser and Clerk done, Superiser I am waiting on more info and the Tax collector I need to get my butt in GEAR! But I was given a repreive (SP) last night! I have until about the 4th to GET ER DONE!
Of course I still have to audit the beautiful city of Mt Dora, and do an audit count at Just Brakes at 6am on Tuesday morning.
Oh, did I mention today is moving day? Thank heavens for my husband and mother in law. I helped move boxes when I could, but the move would never have gotten done with out them
Pictures to be posted later

Universal & I ve been tagged

2006-12-27T02:20:00.000-12:00

Well we had a great time at Universal. They have an AWESOME Barney show, I actually saw a parent doing the three finger head bang (no joke truly saw it), if you can't stand the purple giant avoid video number 2!~
Luke LOVE the Macy's parade they had (except for the exploding confetti). He also enjoyed the hour walk to the car (should ahve taken 15 minutes except he insisted on walking). We all enjoyed spending time with our frineds from West Palm James Yolanda and our god daughters Jessica & Vanessa (although Luke did not enjoy shaing his Mom Dad and Grandma or toys)
Oh and and Mr nasty looks on the people mover- yeah you- the sign said no strollers- so don't be giving me a nasty look because my son was walking slow and you wanted to get your stroller by! Sign said NO STROLLERS! MEANIE!

I've been tagged by Holly

A-Available or single? Married
B- Best Friend? My hubby DAVID
C- Cake or pie? ANything chocolate
D- Drink of choice? Diet coke
E- Essential item I use every day? Hair glue it
F- Favorite color: green
G- Gummy Bears or Gummy Worms? Bears
H- Hometown? Growing up...Coral Springs, Fl
I- Indulgence: Egg Mc Muffin
J- January or February? January, Davids BDay 1/21
K- Kids and names: Sophia Allyn, Lucas Jacob, Lily Ileana, Gabriel Aidan (my little UN)
L- Life is incomplete without? family
M-Marriage date: 12/28/02
N- Number of siblings: Legit or not? 1 sister
O- Oranges or apples? Oranges
P- Phobias or fears? failure
Q- Favorite quote? life is what happens when you are busy making plans for it
R- Reasons to smile: Luke
S- Season: Spring
T- Tag 3 or 4 people. Ginger, Shelby, Carrie, Krystal
U- Unknown fact about me: I am an awesome cook
V- Vegetable you don’t like: Carrots
X- X-Rays: Every bone- soccer 14 years nough said
Y- Your favorite food? Chinese
Z- Zodiac: Leo

Get er' done

2006-12-26T04:11:00.000-12:00

What did you do on your day off? Well thanks for asking I worked, I worked about 20 some odd hours since Friday night trying to get the audits I have on my plate done. 10 of it Christmas day alone, yes I knwo I'm Jewish, but as a Jew I have traditions that I would like to pass on to my son such as eating CHinese food and going to the movies, couldn't be done since Mommy had to answer comments such as, change your font. COme again, I got my Master's degree sat for the CPA exam (CPA= couldn't pass again) to change my font, and worry about my spelling. Yes there were some valid comments, but those were outnumbered but frustrating annoying things such as font type.
We did have our Godchildren up for the weekend, and I was able to steel a few hours each day to go Magic Kingdom Saturday night for a few hours and Universal Studios a few hours Sunday. Lukey boy does NOT like to share his Mommy Daddy or G-Mom J. OR HIS TOYS! ANd napping puhlease! Not gonna do it. Got some cute photos of this weekend will post tonight, but for now we have Luke and his chocolate pudding, which he used as a push car around the crappy rental apartment (t-minus 4 days till moving)And him playing in a store!

Four eyes, swings, and a future CEO?

2006-12-22T04:41:00.000-12:00

Mommy is OLD! Not only do I need glasses for distnace but for reading.
I have a theory, CPA's age kind of like dogs, 5 years for every 1 year you've been a CPA, ok I have been a CPA 2 years so thats an additional 10, so I'm almost 40 in CPA years
Last night after getting my glasses ( I have never worn anythign but reading glasses), I took Luke to the park outside of our dive of a rental apartment complex (amen we move to the house next week!). I cooked dinner and set back to work. Luke HATES when I work, I am in hte midst of auditing a VERY large county and a city oh and of course starting ANOTHER county audit, and gettign ready for tax season (and travel for the twins) and I have to bake all my holiday trays! Back to my story, Luke hates when I work, but I can't work till 2am anymore, so I sat him in his high chair and set him up with his own "laptop" so he can work like Mommy:

Off to the swings

Bath Time

Random thoughts...

2006-12-19T16:12:00.000-12:00

I just can't sleep. Yesterday I went to bed at 2AM. I just lay in bed and watch Luke sleep (yes he sleeps with us, ugh, but not for long when we move to the new house next week he has a Backyardigan bed!), most nights he sleeps right on top of me. How did I get so lucky? He's SO perfect.
In the past 2 years since we started this journey we have met amazing people, some I see all the time, others I have never actually spoken too or met, but all the same I feel these woman (sorry guys you just don't know how to blog)are my family. They know what I am going through with Sophie and the twins, and what its like to bring Luke home. Some people don't get it, to me reading my blogs are like keeping up with what is going on in my families' life.
Also it doesn't hurt that I live in Orlando and EVERYONE needs to bring their kiddos down to see Mickey!
So to all my blogging buddies.. THANKS! Even though I don't comment everyday I most likely read your blog and you know who you are
Also I would like to say its coming up to tax season... I am a CPA and David is an attorney who does a TON of tax work. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE CONSULT A TAX PROFESSIONAL BEFORE FILING YOUR ADOPTION TAX CREDITS... AGENCIES LIE TO MAKE IT APPEAR THE GOVERNMENT IS GOING TO GIVE YOU A CHECK FOR 10,000.... IT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN (SORRY GUYS, I WISH IT WERE TRUE TRUST ME)
Please feel free to email me if you need assistance or direction, DISCLAIMER: MOST OF THE WORKERS AT H&R BLOCK, JACKSON HEWERT & OTHER QUICK RUSH TAX SERVICES ONLY TOOK AN HOUR LONG CLASS. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE SEE A PROFESSIONAL FOR YOUR TAX NEEDS

Really cute pictures of Luke

Mom why are you giving me a box? Big deal.... OH THERE"S POOH COOL!
(side note, I learned the trick to getting Luek to smile for the camera is to pretend to cry)

Excuse me, Gaston... What year did yous ay these cherries are, they are excellent! (take that anymous from san diego... yeah I know all about you, cherries they are really fruit!)

Aktkins smakins... I love my carbs...bring em on!

Well signing off for now... Daddy is sick :( The good news is I don't think we will ever eat at Taco Bell again.... I have to go take care of my favorite men in the world

VISA!~(and I don't mean mastercard!)...Hanukkah! SOPHIE TURNS TWO

2006-12-18T15:50:00.000-12:00

Today is Sophie's birthday... She is 2 today, we accepted her referral at 8 months old, I miss my little girl terribly! WE LOVE YOU SOPHIE!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SOPHIA ALLYN!

Well many may know that we are adopting from Vietnam as well. We have accepted the referral of twins born 7/28/06 :)
Todays names are Lily Ilana and Gabriel Aidan (they are boy/girl)... I am not allowed to post pictures till they are legally ours :(
ANYWHO... I got my VISA in the mail on Saturday, its real, I am going to Vietnam!!!!! Luke's going to be a big brother! We will have 4 kids under 3 when Sophie gets home, 3 under 2! I am buying stock in Tylenol amd Luvs
I have SO many pics to post of :uke's first Hanukkah :) He's SO spoiled I will post the pics first thing in the morning!
WATCH OUT VIETNAM HERE I COME!
Mommy I love this toy that I didnt like 5 minutes ago!

Grandma J DAddy...What did you get? I have good taste you know!

Where's Luke? Where's Luke? There he is!

OY VEY Grandma D- What a schlep to get to you!

Mommy you clean up, I'll sit here and supervise

I'm not tired... I'm just resting my eyes

I've created a monster...

2006-12-15T02:55:00.000-12:00

Not a bad monster... more like Grover at in the Monster at the End of this book...
Luke, the most adorable loving baby who refuse to smile for a picture, whose favorite place to sit is the dog's crate (I mean room), who refuses to eat anything that Mommy isnt eating, REFUSES to go to SLEEP before 11. The kid won't go to bed. He rubs his eyes we lay down and its play time!
OY VEY! I love it!
Mom, i realize Santa doesn't discriminate, but I'm just getting used to being Jewish, OY is he scary!

Stairs are so PASE' Watson and Spock hang here, this must be the cool spot!

Yeah you guys enjoy your Outback Steaks! I'm eating cherries...AND NO I WILL NOT SMILE (until you take the camera out of my face and then I won't stop!)

******UPDATE ON SOPHIE GATE 2006*****
We interupt cute Luke pictures to bring you shocking news! The Embassy has agreed to give us ONE more shot! Yes on January 31st is our 4th and FINAL chance at a birth mother interview (um yes the social worker interview was done and yes DNA was done). We are all optimistic!

SophieGate 2006

2006-12-13T02:55:00.000-12:00

Well we received an update on Sophie from "Not so Deepthroat", it appears that our Attorney's have had Victory! They have arranged for her release on Jnauary 10th( sad that its a month away, but heck its a step in the right direction). Now we are just waiting on the Embassy to give us a thumbs up for a re-scheduling, I have emailed them, the Attorney's have gone to them and I will have a US senator contact them this week.
I received these pictures this week. Can you believe my baby doll is going to be 2 next week? December 19th!

Um... Out all the outfits my Mommy left me you put me in this Shmotta outfit? Please, somebody take me the GAP

I'm concentrating on looking good, its not hard really, it comes natural to me, but this outfit, mom, grandma J grandma D, Tia G- SEND ME CLOTHES (and a plane ticket to America

Here's a movie that we took on Luke's pick up trip of the two them playing together in the Marriott playroom

Sophie we love you!! We are working on getting you home as soon as we can!

Thanks to all who have emailed me your support and encouraging words!

Life is what happens when you are busy making plans for it!

A little about me...

2006-12-09T14:04:00.000-12:00

Lots of blogs I have been reading lately have been stressing about weight. My favorite blog that read, Holly & Gia, mentioned the HBO special Thin. Thought I'd give some insight into my world.
I am a recovering bulemic. I am not pencil thin. Nor will I ever be. Last year I Spent 4 months in an eating disorder facilty. 8 months after leaving I was back into the habit. I talked to my doctor about it, he said I dont look bulemic. What does a bulemic look like?
I am talking abou this today because I was VERY SICK. My daily ritual included 8 exlax, 4 dieretics, green tea pills and vomiting AT LEAST 7 times a day (even if I only ate grilled chicken)
Did throwing up get me pregnant NOPE... A better job NOPE... Thin DEFINATELY not..
My body was in sucj shock I actually GAINED weight! Which is typical for bulemics, my poor body thought I would never let it digest so it stuck to me like whit on rice.
Why I am writing this? Well for starters I am four days "clean". The obsession with my body is not worth me dying and leaving my family. To quote the AA big book ( overeaters foolow it as well, which my eating disorder center made us go to), this disease is cunning baffiling and power. I havent beaten it yet, and I will battle it my whole life. But to quote Kenny Loggins (footloose) anything worth my love is worth the fight!
Dont obsess over your bodies... We are beautiful the way we are. KUDOS to those of us who recognize this!
AND DOUBLE KUDOS TO HOLLY FOR KEEPING ME ENTERTAINED ON A DAILY BASIS

One CINGULAR sensation

2006-12-04T11:40:00.000-12:00

Sunday we were off getting new cell phones, Luke was crawling around the store and all the sudden he got up and walked!
Since then that's all he wants to do, does not want to be carried, he is a walking man! Oh and he drank his juice box by himself... Next thing you know he'll move out... He's growing up way too fast for me!
I am out of the office and my huuby's comp does not like to let me post pictures booo!

SOPHIE BREAKING NEWS
**** In shocking news, the Embassy interview did not happen. However, we our agecny has managed to SAVE our adoption! They were able to bring the necessary documents to the Embassy to prove that she is in jail. Now they have to bail her out AND STILL go for the interview.
Keep praying and we'll keep you posted

The end?

2006-12-02T16:44:00.000-12:00

Sorry I haven't updated this week... Its been one of those weeks
Tuesday we were supposed to close on our house in WPB pushed to Wednesday pushed to Thursday... Were supposed to close on our new house in CLermont on Monday pushed to G-d knows when... But all that is trivial
Monday I received an email from the Embassy stating that if Sophie's Birthmother does not show up for her interview (this will be the 3rd scheduled interview) our petition will be denied. I don't get it. We did DNA, the did the social worker interview, why does the Embassy want to interview her again? Our agency has been trying to find her for 4 months, they can't find her. Surprisingly, Tuesday I receive a phone call, they found her birthmother, in jail under a false name! They don't know if they can get her out!
We need prayers and support! We received Sophie's referral September 9, 2005, she will be 2 December 19th, she needs to be home with her Mommy Daddy and brother! With Hague we may not be able to go the abandonment route... please pray...

All I wnt fo Hanukah

2006-11-24T03:48:00.001-12:00

Epcot & Luke

2006-11-24T02:09:00.000-12:00

Mom Dad Grandma J took Luke too Epcot the day before his snip...
I swear this kid must think the whole world is a theme park (Grandma J's Quote)
Since he has been home we have been to MGM 2x, Epcot, Magic kingdom and Universal Studios (yesterday for thanks giving).
Daddy got picked by the street performers to be King Arthur, you think I'll ever live that ine down? His one line was..."its good to be the king"

My sister spent the last 4 weeks making a video of Luke... She took pictures that she took from the visit we took last December and my mom's first meeting of Luke (7 weeks ago!)

Luke's a "Cut above'

2006-11-21T04:10:00.000-12:00

My poor little man! Yesterday bright & early Mommy and Daddy took him to start his conversion to be a little Jewish boy... that's right we took him to get circumsiced... He took it like a man! He cried a little when he woke up, but that's about it, he's been happy and playing ever since... Next step in the conversion is the mikvah....

For all those adoptive families

2006-11-17T07:12:00.000-12:00

I once saw on the Rosie O'Donnell Show (oh dear when was that cancelled), that the song from Tarzan, "You'll be in my heart" was about adoption. Have you ever stopped and listened to the words? WOW!
Somedays I love telling the whole world Luke is adopted and that he's ours and home forever.. If I tell you! Why do you need to ask me if my son is adopted while I'm enjoying lunch with my family? I don't ask you if those are your natural children. People think the bond between a mother and a child can only be created in the womb? (comments such as "You'll love them like they are your own")
UGH Read the lyrics enjoy the video!

Come stop your crying, it will be all right
Just take my hand, hold it tight
I will protect you from all around you
I will be here dont you cry

For one so small,you seem so strong
My arms will hold you keep you safe and warm
This bond between us cant be broken
I will be here dont you cry

And youll be in my heart
Yes, youll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more
Youll be in my heart
No matter what they say
Youll be here in my heart
Always

Why cant they understand the way we feel
They just dont trust what they cant explain
I know were different but deep inside us
Were not that different at all

And youll be in my heart
Yes, youll be in my heart
From this day on
Now and forever more
Youll be in my heart
No matter what they say
Youll be here in my heart
Always

Dont listen to them, cause what do they know
We need each other, to have and to hold
Theyll see in time, I know

When destiny calls you, you must be strong
I may not be with you, but you gotta hold on
Theyll see in time, I know

Well show them together cuz...

Youll be in my heart
I believe, youll be in my heart
Ill be there from this day on
Now and forever more

Youll be in my heart
No matter what they say
Youll be here in my heart always

Always...
Ill be with you
Ill be there for you always
Always and always
Just look over your shoulder
Just look over your shoulder
Just look over your shoulder
Ill be there always

Confessions of a Super Soap Fan

2006-11-13T03:27:00.000-12:00

Future Soap Star
It was Grandma Judy's 31st birthday (again), so relunctanlty I agreed to go to super soap weekend at MGM Studios and see all the ABC Soap Opera Stars with all the crazy fans. I risked my life to take pictures, stand in line to cathc a glimpse of gorgeous men (worth it), and see woman who on my best day I will never look like!
But anyways, more importanlty, Luke had a blast. He rode some rides, watched a parade and was spoiled. Anyways back to MGM... We saw all the hotties, but the first day couldn't really get pictures pictures because my husband (really dont want to go into it) wouldn't double check to make sure we had the camera, because I asked him 5x to do it, and he said it was in the car,and it wasn't so we had to buy a junky disposable, but like I said, I really don't want to get into it.
Grandma J go to take Luek on its a Small worl and the Haunted Mansion, where he fell asleep!
Day 2 at MGM I stood on a bench to get pcitures of Susan Lucci, so my MIL can have a picture of her. I'm really not all that into soaps (even though the day befoer I was ready to throw my son at Cameron matheson (Ryan All My Children).
OK OK I CONFESS I LOVE ALL MY CHILDREN>>> THE GUYS ARE SO HOT! And realy does anyone work on these shows?
More confessions tomorrow

Somewhere out there......

2006-11-10T07:57:00.000-12:00

This post is in honor of new referral! To my darling twins (yes twins!) in Vietnam Lily & Isaac (born 7/28/06), we love you very much and can not wait to come get you!
I will post pictures of them after my mother gets to see them. We have received their medicals and the are healthy and happy!
See you soon!
PS Lily & Isaac this sounds just like Mommy & Daddy singing!

An American Tail Soundtrack Lyrics

- Somewhere Out There Lyrics

Performed by Phillip Glasser (Fievel) & Betsy Cathcart (Tanya)

Fv: Somewhere out there,
beneath the pale moonlight,
someone's thinking of me and loving me tonight.

Ty: Somewhere out there,
someone's saying a prayer,
that we'll find one another in that big somewhere out there.

(*)Ty: And even though I know how very far apart we are,
it helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star.

Fv: And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby,
it helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky.

Together: Somewhere out there,
if love can see us through,
then we'll be together, somewhere out there,
out where dreams come true.

Character key:
Fv = Fievel, Ty = Tanya, Tg = Tiger.

For my daughter Sophie

2006-11-10T02:56:00.000-12:00

With all the excitement of our referral for Vietnam, the sale of our house, the purchase of the new house, my sister's wedding... You think I'd be happy... It's hard to be happy when my Sophie's not here... I miss her terribly.... She will be 2 December 19th. I love her SO much... A piece of me is in Guatemala until she is home... So for my Sophie I dedicate Nickleback's Far Away

NICKELBACK LYRICS

"Far Away"

This time, This place
Misused, Mistakes
Too long, Too late
Who was I to make you wait
Just one chance
Just one breath
Just in case there's just one left
'Cause you know,
you know, you know

[CHORUS]
That I love you
I have loved you all along
And I miss you
Been far away for far too long
I keep dreaming you'll be with me
and you'll never go
Stop breathing if
I don't see you anymore

On my knees, I'll ask
Last chance for one last dance
'Cause with you, I'd withstand
All of hell to hold your hand
I'd give it all
I'd give for us
Give anything but I won't give up
'Cause you know,
you know, you know

[CHORUS]

So far away
Been far away for far too long
So far away
Been far away for far too long
But you know, you know, you know

I wanted
I wanted you to stay
'Cause I needed
I need to hear you say
That I love you
I have loved you all along
And I forgive you
For being away for far too long
So keep breathing
'Cause I'm not leaving you anymore
Believe it
Hold on to me and, never let me go
Keep breathing
'Cause I'm not leaving you anymore
Believe it
Hold on to me and, never let me go
Keep breathing
Hold on to me and, never let me go
Keep breathing
Hold on to me and, never let me go

Nah Nah hey hey hey Good bye

2006-11-09T06:26:00.000-12:00

After 10 months on the market... OUR HOUSE IN ROYAL PALM BEACH SOLD!! Can a get an AMEN!!! Things are finally coming together! Luke is home.. we have a house, we sold our old house, Luke is home... Just need Sophie home! Oh and then there's the
REFERRAL FOR VIETNAM! YES WE GOT IT!!! I am going the second week in December! I was supposed to go the end of this month, but President Bush's summit pushed me back...bummer... I do have pcitures... but I am not going to post them.. If you know me...email me and i will share them with you :) Watch out Vietnam here I come!

To My son

2006-11-07T03:17:00.000-12:00

I love this song... The wedding we went to two weeks ago the mother of the groom and groom danced to this together... Since then I have been singing it to Luke (well the first verse)

YOU ARE THE SUNSHINE OF MY LIFE (Stevie Wonder)

You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
That's Why I'll Always Stay Around
You Are The Apple Of My Eye
Forever You'll Stay In My Heart

I Feel Like This Is The Beginning
Though I've Loved You For A Million Years
And If I Thought Our Love Was Ending
I'd Find Myself Drowning In My Own Tears

You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
That's Why I'll Always Stay Around
You Are The Apple Of My Eye
Forever You'll Stay In My Heart

You Must Have Known That I Was Lonely
Because You Came To My Rescue
And I Know That This Must Be Heaven
How Could So Much Love Be Inside Of You

You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
That's Why I'll Always Stay Around
You Are The Apple Of My Eye
Forever You'll Stay In My Heart

You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
That's Why I'll Always Stay Around
You Are The Apple Of My Eye
Forever You'll Stay In My Heart

The Bald & Beautiful

2006-11-06T01:33:00.000-12:00

It was a lovely weekend... We all drove down to West Palm Beach (2.5 hours south of Orlando). Luke & I slept at my Mom's, and David & Grandma J slept at their good friend's house Yolanda & James. Yolanda has a 4 year old, Jessica and a 2 year old Vanessa (my G-d Daughter)who are the cutest, best behaved girls I have seen! (Too bad David & I both forgot to take pictures :(, but we'll be back to visit them soon!)
Saturday Luke got to meet all of my aunts (OH VEY! that's alot of people, still no camera)Between Jessica, Vaneesa Yolanda and all my cousins and aunts and uncles (oh my)Luke took NO naps, and did not want to sleep, but he really wasnt cranky?
Why is my son bald? Let's just say my pediatrician (ex-pediatrician)told me my son scratched his head ALL the time because it was dry...um no, I'm pretty sure you can figure out the rest, but let's just say Mommy Daddy and Grandma J also have nice short do's. Good news is this once very happy itchy baby, is now just an extremely happy baby

BEFORE GORGEOUS HAIR & ELMO

Home depot (still with hair)

POST HAIR CUT
I didnt do it...you can't prove anything

My two men

I'll have the filet, medium, what year did you say the juice was

How you doin?

Mommy's Haircut :(

Yeah for Mommy... working for the Mouse!

2006-11-03T02:56:00.000-12:00

Mommy is an auditor.. a big bad CPA (not really I'm a governmental auditor), right now my firm has me at a client, a taxing district, whose biggest tax mileage comes from Disney! Needless to say, I am working two minutes from Downtown Disney! All the paperplates napkins and utensils in the breakroom are from the themeparks..so I say Im working for the Mouse!
So I spent 30+ hours this week reconciling all of the taxing districts investments, millions of dollars, can I get a YEAH mommy!
We go visit lots of Family this weekend!

Luke's new castle... bath time and more

2006-11-01T13:52:00.000-12:00

As you may have noticed we had an editor's retraction.. To correct yesterday's misposting, my mother in law is not living with us, we are all living together! David & Judy (aka Grandma J, Abuela (he he she just LOVES to be called Abuela)), have a business together, David is an attorney(A cpa and an attorney who met on the internet, two geeks in love) who does taxes, corporate work, estate work stuff like that, his mother does all the real work behind it (he he, just kidding), normally David runs back and forth between the two house, but with Luke, its really not efficient, and with more kiddos on the way, it just makes sense. (On a real side note, I walk around all day singing "Your best friend the backYARDagins")

Pictures of the house

Our house

My Kithen (AND I DO ME MINE)

Formal Family (what is the purpose of the formal family room, esp when you have kids)

More house pictures tomorrow!
Bath Time

Halloween

2006-10-31T01:52:00.000-12:00

Happy Halloween! Luke is Winnie the Pooh! Surprise anyone? I love Pooh bear!! And Luke is sweeter than honey!

Wedding Cousins & Coworkers Oh my

2006-10-30T02:05:00.000-12:00

Well I am behind on my post.. Does this suprprise anyone? Last weekend was one of my co-worker's weddigns in Melbourne, Fl, Stephanie. Congratluations Stephanie & Freddie!! David and I both have friends over there, and David has a cousin over there,who has a 10 month old baby Emily. Emily was very intrigued by her new shor dark and handsome cousin!

Next it was off to the wedding, where Luke knew exactly who to suck up to to! Mommy's boss!

Here are some pictures from just around
Mommy you can take pictures upside imbetween your legs...YOU ROCK!

The Story of Luke, Watson & A bottle

Dancing Queen... young sweet only....

2006-10-27T05:51:00.000-12:00

Ok I can't dance, but my son nearly bust a gut watching me, and really isnt that what's important. I know I promised pictures of the wedding, but this was jsut so much better, me make an idiot of myself come on?

What a weekend!!

2006-10-26T05:38:00.000-12:00

Luke went to his first wedding (pictures to be posted tomorrow)! And both his Godparents were there at the SAME time (considereing God-Daddy lives in Podunk Florida and God Mommy lives wayyonder in Chicago its a miracle!)
And to top it all offf Mommy ended up in the ER... I had not been feeling well since getting back from Guat, after returning from Guat, 8 hours alter I was on a plane to Wisconsin/ Iowa to do an inventory count for 4 days, then back to Florida. I have been having fevers nauda, and well you can figure the rest out. Monday night I had a 102 and had not kept food down in three days so David dragged me (pretty much literally as I am always fearful of missing work) to the hospital.
ANyways here's some shots of Luke with Travis (David's friend from college Go gators!) and Olivia (Corey's friend since 7th grade (also a gator, but a true Miami Hurricane at heart, go thug U!))

Guess who's who

How high does this thing go?

I think I like this

Aunt Olivia is teaching me to be the latin luver at the JCC

Mommy where'd you go?

No new pics

2006-10-20T01:24:00.000-12:00

Daddy has hijacked the camera!!! So no new pics... But I'll post so of the old favs from the past 13 days (can you believe he's been home 13 days!!)
Tomorrow Luke is going to one of my co-workers weddings. I think we were only invited so he will come!!!
Luke learned a new game this morning, if I cry maybe Mommy won't go to work.... Mommy learned she needs to get up earlier! I wasn't late to work, just really hard to leave :( He's so dran cute :)
He is SO active.. He crawls everywhere! Pulls himself up... LOVES TO DANCE!!! And always smiles... The boy loves bath time (gets that from Daddy!)

Hi Ho Hi Ho Its back to work Mommy goes...

2006-10-17T07:39:00.000-12:00

Relunctantly Mommy went back to work yesterday... And Luke was not happy! (Which made Mommy happy!). But alas Daddy survived (which made mommy happy to know her Hubby can handle taking her little man to the lab (even though her brough Grandma for reinforcements)) Oh so I guess he does need help!!! Grandma helped Daddy most of the day, Luke has enough energy to tire out two adults and two dogs! He finally crashed at 8:30 last night after some good Mommy and me time, a nice bath some cuddling ;) Daddy and Luke watched Bed Knobs and Broomsticks (a personal fave) as Mommy cooked dinner and cleaned up (poor daddy didnt know what he was getting into being a stay at home lawyer/dad)! But we are surving....
Luke weighs 19.9lbs, only in the 5th percentile for weight 29inches, 10th percentile for height, but what do the american charts know about my little Latin Luver?

Luke at Downtown Disney

A picture says a thousand words

2006-10-16T03:56:00.000-12:00

Oh my what is this lady doing to me?

Mommy I dont like it here

Where's my California roll?

Guard Dogs

Cruisin & Adjustin

2006-10-09T14:50:00.000-12:00

Luke is adjusting great (except for the dogs).I took him to my office today, and well he won a few hearts!! I'm not byist but my son is gorgeous (and a genius, and a FLIRT!!!)
we took Luke to the picture people in the mall, and I really think he has a future career!
Tomorrow it is off to the pediatrician... And some other exciting adventures...

Mommy I am so cute in this outfit, but then again what aren't I cute in

Cruisin!!!

The Lukenator out & About...
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Look mom... the girls are already falling at my feet (guest starring Princess Breahna)

I love my exersaucer

GOTCHA....HOME!!

2006-10-08T13:22:00.000-12:00

David Grandma & LUKE"S plane arrived yesterday at 4:30ish. What an exciting day. Luke is finally ours, I truly never thought the day would come when my SON would be home with.

Dad,I wanna go home now!!!

Dad I'm all packed!

Welcome to AMERICA

Da plane Da plane

Every Super Hero has a Mom

2006-10-05T15:49:00.000-12:00

I would like to dedicate this post to my mother in law, Judy. For the past year and half of this process she has seen what heck we have been through. But she's a real trooper, she has spent the last 9 days in Guatemala, surving on eggwhites and the love for her grandchildren. Without Grandma Gaynes support we would not have been able to complete this adoption.
Thanks Grandma Judy

Hey Grandma I'm gonna make a mess like this in your house some day!

Mommy I hear you... but I don't see you?

My hero

2006-10-05T03:38:00.000-12:00

Yesterday my Husband spent about 5 hours at the Embassy. He was not leaving without pink, and he got it. I am still in Wisconsin, but I leave for home in a few hours.
David spent 5 days at the Embassy fighting to get our son home. He has been in Guatemala for 9 days. Usually people dont travel till they have pink, if we hadn't gone down we would still not have pink and Luke would not be home this weekend. So this post is dedicated to my hero, the love of my life David!

Daddy we love you!

Grandma Im going to climb all over you

Luke plays peek a boo

Hey Luke what's your favorite color

2006-10-04T12:48:00.000-12:00

PINK!!!!!!!
Yes that's right, my hero, my husband, David Matthew, got PINK for our son. He camped out at the Embassy for 5 days, we received pink today, Friday at 7:45 Luke will at teh Embassy for his appoitment, 11:30 we will pick up his Visa, 10:50 Saturday night HOME!!!!
When I get home to Florida I can sunbathe!

Mommy when I get home can the Hurricanes play better this year?

Mommy Im hiding in your pink sweater

Mommy's back in the USA... Luke's "First" Haircut

2006-10-03T14:18:00.000-12:00

Mommy arrived home last night at 11PM, and went staright to bed... I had a 11am flight to Wisconsin for work, I am so tired, two flights, a two hour drive and I am in Prairie du Chien, but I am doing an inventory count in Iowa, which is down the road past the Piggly Wiggly (I swear they exist) cross the Mississippi River. I am definatly a city girl!
But on to more important business, David and our attorney's in country (after no answer from our agency all day, apparenlty you only get calls back when you threaten with bar complaints) were finally able to get all the necessary paperwork filed (we are hoping and praying). So David has to go back to the Embassy again tomorrow to make sure everything is correct (third day in a row, 4th time in 7 days they know his name like Norm from Cheers)
So let's look at Pictures of Luke to cheer us up
"Gosh I'm cute... Just a little off the top"

"How short are you doing my hair?"

"Will I be as handsome as my Daddy?"

"I want a Merecedes not a Porche!"

"Grandma I think Mommy's going to have a heartattack, but I do this all the time!"

Mommy's extra day

2006-10-01T16:11:00.000-12:00

Well Mommy decided to stay an extra day so we can make sure everything was filled out on Monday that needed to be... so we took Luke to the mall... We got him an awesome haircut, but we forgot the camera at home, but I di buy an overpriced disposable camera so I will upload pictures of Luke's "first" haircut after i get them developed. Let me tell you this kid has changed in the past five days. He does not sit still for 5 mintes. He is definitely the most loveing charming, handsome, baby boy in the Marriott! He didn't cry for a second when he got his hair cut. He sat in the little porche boxter and the guy was so good, and he got rid of that stupid mullet bowl cut!

There's Always room for jello

2006-09-30T15:32:00.000-12:00

David and his mother thought it would be a great idea if Luke played with jello. I really didn't think it was, but though maybe we could get some cute pictures.... Let's just say I'm still getting jello out of my shoes and I think it will be easier to burn my shirt than clean it

Day 5 says goodbye to Sophie...

2006-09-30T10:52:00.000-12:00

Sophie.. aka the monster... aka Im in charge..was picked up today at 5, Luke has not noticed yet, is it wrong that I was thrilled that she screamed for me and David?
She is definatly my daughter, this kid puts ketchup on everything!

Against my better judgement we had her in her Gators out fit, hopefully, this will bring the gators luck today

Luke is walking, crawlikng eating such a big boy!
"Give me Pink"

Day 4... More Adventures

2006-09-29T14:51:00.000-12:00

Today we found the real reason no pink, we moved in the middle of our adoption. But we still own our old house so we never updated addresses. Our new I-171 with our new fingerprints had our new address not our old one.
The weirdest thing happened today, our agency, facilitator and lawyer worked together, and we were able to file a new I-600A and g-28, we are hoping to have pink Monday, please pray for us.
In more important new Sophie had her "first" haircut. Now I know its not her first haircut, but it was the first time David and I took her. Luke is growing by leaps and bounds. He stands and walks (about an inch and then goes plop). He is not feeling to good, so he kind of sounds like a cat right now.

Day 3... No Pink BUT WE WERE SUBMITTED...

2006-09-28T14:44:00.000-12:00

Ok we were submitted on Monday... They are missing our new fingerprints, I got the number of our local INS agent so HOPEFULLY David can fix it tomorrow and we can still be out of here next week!
Kids are doing great! Luke is learning how to escape from his thing they call a crib here.. An Sophie is a spoiled brat! She is a sleep in my bed... Here are today's pictures...

Luke "The great escape" Gaynes

Luke Walking

2006-09-28T02:44:00.000-12:00

My Baby Walking

Begining Of Day 3

2006-09-27T23:41:00.000-12:00

Luke woke up at 5:30, happy as a clam (what does that really mean), here are some pictures and video as promised
Luke's nap yesterday GO CANES!!!!!!

Luke 5:30 this morning Canes? Maybe Gators?

Sophie has a future career as a cereal model

Pink... Of course not

2006-09-27T14:56:00.000-12:00

Well day two, still no pink... Maybe tomorrow... We were told to email the embassy today... I'm sorry but didnt I pay alot of money for someone else to do this? Just my opinion....
Anyways... Luke's separation anxiety is better, really clings to me and Grandma, bedtime is the worst (he bit my cheek (a love bite I say))....He smile with his two front teeth and he is walking (kind of), the play room has a Jumparoo that he LOVES... Tomorrow I will upload video
Queen Sophie... well lets just say this little terror has started the terrible twos a few months early, no wonder her foster mom dropped her off early.... AND WE ARE ENJOYING EVERY SECOND OF IT.... She has the funniest laugh, and I have no idea what language she is speaking, she clearly says, me mine, gimme, Ma, Mom, mine (oh I already said that) and of course no...

Finally with my children

2006-09-27T09:26:00.000-12:00

Pick Up/ Visit Trip Day 1

2006-09-27T08:51:00.000-12:00

We arrived at the Marriott a little before 2, Sophie arrived at 2!!! I dropped all my bags and ran. She saw my and said Mima! She hasn't stopped running, giggling, and causing mayham since... EVERYTHING IS Mom, Momma... Running.. I am torn thinking I have to leave her here... She is so beautiful, still smal though, the 18 month old clothes are still too big...
Luke's foster mother showed up at 3, everyone was crying... I felt so bad, but I just wanted my boy. She left at about 5:30 and Luke cried and cried, he finally fell asleep in my arms at 6ish from crying... He slep till 7:30 we bathed him and played and he laughed some, but then back to crying. He would only really let me hold him. He is doing much better today, still really clings to me. (Sophie is a monster, she does what she wants!)
Blogger does not want me to post pictures now, so I will post later
Corey

2006-09-25T13:34:00.000-12:00

We are Leaving... T-minus 9 hours

2006-09-25T11:49:00.000-12:00

The time has finally come. .... Mommy, Daddy & Grandma G are leaving to pickup Luke and visit with Sophie!! We will be arriving in Guatemala at 1 their time
I think Justin Timberlake should change the name of his song fromI'm bringing Sexy Back... To Im bringing Lukey Back!
Our last Night as a couple and what are we doing? Whating TV! We should have gone out to a movie... I don't see my life as ending because I am having a a child, Luke coming home is the begining of my life... We have waited our whole lives for this... This handsome little devil is ours!
I can't wait to get this pretty pretty princess home as well....
Post more tomorrow..

Adoption Lamaze

2006-09-21T09:07:00.000-12:00

(focus mommy, focus)
On tv they are always telling pregnant woman to focus on delivery... Well I have decided there needs to be adoption lamaze. More specifically, waiting for pink lamaze....
I can not concentrate! All I think about is going to Guat to see Sophie and take Luke home... Does anything else really matter at this point... Hehehe whoo.... Where the heck is my epidural? I need a statue of Elvis behind my laptop to FOCUS!!!

I'm famous!!!

2006-09-20T01:13:00.000-12:00

(These geeks are my parents?)
I got a shout out yesterday on one of my favorite blogs! Dahollygshow! Holly & Zo had their Embassy appoint and are brining home Gia today, she gave me a shout out, I'm such a dork, I actually got excited (oh I and did vote on Holly on line poll for her dance and watched more than once, geek that I am)
How is Luke & Sophie's parents geeks:

Luke is named after his grandfather yes- but also David can not wait to say Luke I am your father
Daddy's idea of a great Friday- Stargate, Stargate Atlantis, Battlesomething Galatica
Mommy's Idea of a Friday- Pizza, work, read, asleep by 9
Daddy thinks transformers are still cool
New kids on the block still rock
Daddy thinks ANime is AWESOME
Mommy had a mullet a few weeks back
Daddy thinks Dr Who is the Bomb
A late night for Mommy is staying up till 10:30
Daddy thinks a night with his boyz is hanging out on the couch with the dogs

But does it really matter? We love Luke and Sophie with all our hearts! They are what we think about when we go to bed and first thing we think about in the morning...

Geeks or not.... Luke and Sophie are stuck with us!

One week!

2006-09-19T02:42:00.000-12:00

In one week we will be leaving as a couple, and returning as a family... (not complete as Sophie is not returning with us). I still question if Luke know what is going to happen... David has been waiting a year to say "Luke I am your father" (Think darth vader)... I said David... He won't understand that.. you need to say ..."Luke... Yo soy Padre..." ha ha ha...
I am going to the agency this afternoon to fill out some final paperwork, things notarized and such, and pick up a package to bring down for another family. I like neing able to bring things down for other familes!
It is so had to concentrate... I need to pack, finish laundry, start cooking for Rosh Hashanah (especially since David's surgery is that day), and get all these audit's done that I have. I dont want to leave work till I have all this stuff done, or I'll have to take my laptop with me (and my son will think Im a work-aholic)
I'm wondering if they gave luke a hair cut or is he going to look like a chia pet/ I just stepped out of the 70s baby? I really hope they didnt cut Sophie's hair, I could barely get it in pigtails the last time I was there. Her hair looked like they stuck a derranged bowl on her head and cut arround it.
Ok time to get some work done
Pink item the day brought to you by Victoria's Secrect (guess its not a secret anymore)

8 DAYS A WEEK!!!

2006-09-18T12:41:00.000-12:00

Its been a hard day's night, and I've been working like a dog... But in 8 days... Here come's my SON!!! And its all right!!!
OK enough Beattles quotes.... We bought Luke the cutest beatles shirt at Target!! Ok so we yesterday I bight Luke the cutest pair Timberlands (on clearance of course)
We put together his highchair and tested it with Spockie (13lbs, Luke weighs about 18lbs) didnt budge

UGH I so can not wait to get down there....

David is having Carpel Tunnel surgery on Friday which is Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) , not really a good way to start the new year, but at least they caught early enough to prevent permanent damage. He should still be able to be able to teach Luke how to be a world class pitcher

Pink Item of the day: unmentionables!!!

Is it me or is the clock standing still?

2006-09-16T02:40:00.000-12:00

So in order to pass the time I make David tell me
Stories from his last visit trip to Guatemala (which was two weeks after mine). Sophie LoVES CHERIOS!!!!! David gave her cherios and she hid them in her crib, at 3 AM he awoke to sounds of munching at two beautiful Guatemalan eyes staring at him! (Like her onsie? appropriate I think!!! If you look back to one of my first posts I had just passed the CPA exam)

Above you will see Sophie testing the laws of physics, brains and beauty? She does take after her mommy!
To your left you will see OUR two Guatemalan beauties. Do they not have the most beautiful eyes you have every seen. I think Sophie's eyelashes are to die for!!! And what style. Luke is sporting the latest Hawaiin fashion (too bad when he stands up his pants go south, he's a little peanut, we'll chunk him up when he gets home (Oh wait that's in a few short weeks!!!))
Now Sophie has that professional model tilt going on. She has definatly perfected the "daddy's girl" persona, David gives her whatever she wants, I'm pretty sure they are both getting new cars by the time they are 4 (of course Sophie's is the Barbie Escalade (My mother in law promised me an escalade!!!) I think Luke is getting the Hummer (?) but who knows what they will come out with in 3 years (or how many kids we will have by then).
The promise of pink.... I have vowed to wear something pink everyday till we have been issued pink... Being a redhead this is quite challenging... Amen for Victoria's Secret PINK LINE!!! cute cotton and comfy and of course has pink all over it!!!

Casa de Luke

2006-09-14T11:05:00.000-12:00

Well not really his Casa as that is still to be determined... we have yet to find a house in Orlando!!
Luke's crib arrived Monday... I don't think it will be featured on MTV Cribs... but I LOVE it... I eyed this bad boy about 6 months ago... Patience pays, my Hubby and mother in law talked that store owner down! Original price $600, We paid $329!! woo hoo!! Of course is discontinued... Its solid oak...stained cherry finish... So no matching pieces... We got a GORGEOUS dresser in a cherry finish....
Aunt Gena bought Luke a Chicco stoller, which was what I wanted at the time. The next day I promptly found a new stoller that I liked better, and David retunred the Chicco stroller for the Graco stoller. Mom's who know trust Graco!! After 5 minutes of watching David try to put it together... I pushed hom aside and took over... Gosh I have no idea how I survived this adoption seeing I have no patience!

Countdown to pickup....

2006-09-13T08:32:00.000-12:00

Well we are leaving September 26.... I am returning September 29th... David and his Mom are staying until Luke comes home, hopefully it will be shortly there after!
The crib was delivered Monday, gorgeous cherry solid oak with a cherry dresser! We got a new single ( :( ) stroller as the Prince's charriot. His exercauser is put together. The only thing missing is him. Our facilitator is just waiting on his little birth certificate so he can submit us for PINK!!!!
I think the agency is praying for pink to so they can be done with at least one of our cases, my guess is they'll throw a party the day after they are done with Sophie's case. Heck I'd be thrilled to be done with us too!!! I'm at the point where I don't want to ask my questions anymore and I wish I could stop thinking of them, but gosh darn it they just keep popping in my head, I wake up at night thinking up the most bizarre things.
Monday morning we have a meeting with a peditrician who specializes in internationally adopted children. So at least now I get to ask my million and one questions to her, I think my case worker would so relieved.
I shall leave you with pictures of the Peanut & the Queen

The Prince's Royal Servants waiting for him

2006-09-06T01:01:00.000-12:00

Traveling Throne

2006-09-05T04:39:00.000-12:00

Mommy, like a champ, intalled Prince Luke's car seat on Monday!

WE ARE OUT!!!!

2006-08-31T02:28:00.000-12:00

No need to pack your bags Luke! We are coming to get you and Mommy Daddy and both Grandma's have PLENTY of stuff for you, so leave everything in Guatemala so all the other kids who are awaiting their forever families can have good stuff too!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUKE

2006-08-29T01:52:00.000-12:00

WE LOVE YOU AND CAN'T WAIT TO TAKE YOU HOME!

Jewish Prayer for an Adopted Child

2006-08-24T01:30:00.000-12:00

Pledge for an Adopted Child

We did not plant you,True. But when the season is done, When the alternate prayersFor the sun and for rain are counted, When the pain of weedingAnd the pride of watching are through, We will hold you high. A shining leafAbove the thousand seeds grown wildNot by our planting, But by heaven. Our harvest. Our own child.
Debra Nussbaum Cohen Source: "Celebrating Your New Jewish Daughter" © 2001 by Debra Nussbaum Cohen

OY VEY!!!! When am I getting outta PGN already

2006-08-22T13:27:00.000-12:00

No way you're gonna have to fight for the bigger closet... I've got lots of toys!

2006-08-21T02:51:00.000-12:00

You MAY be going home first, BUT I am getting the room with THE BIGGER CLOSET

2006-08-20T10:12:00.000-12:00

When asked if Sophie would like to take place in the Embassy investigation her response was "No...No..."

2006-08-18T04:36:00.000-12:00

If I squeeze my eyes real tight... when I open them will I be in FLorida... Oh shoot Nope...

2006-08-17T05:02:00.000-12:00

My Grandma says you better let me out of PGN OR ELSE!

2006-08-15T01:28:00.000-12:00

Please Give me Pre- Approval

2006-08-14T05:14:00.000-12:00

Our Word Cloud

2006-08-07T04:34:00.000-12:00

So many people have these on their blogs, so I thought I would give it a try... Its pretty cool!

At Luke's foster home

2006-08-04T07:28:00.000-12:00

Me & Grandma

2006-08-03T01:17:00.000-12:00

A Vietnam Update from the Franks

2006-07-31T12:51:00.000-12:00

Yes we got another update from the AMAZINGLY WONDERFUL family the Franks. Both boys are awake.. and look quite happy... And like they are going to cause Mommy big trouble, they are standing by themselves in the crib... Uh Oh!

Remembering part 2

2006-07-30T13:19:00.000-12:00

Sophie is named after my father, Steven Allen Wolf. My father died July last year. 1 1/2 months before our referral. My father and I were really close, he never missed a soccer game, debate tournement, and he carried a atache case full of my awards! Sophie is so much like him, from her short little temper to her love of cheesecake (my dad made the best cheesecake), she even falls asleep sitting up like my Dad! With great love and respect david and I proudly name our daughter Sophia Allyn Gaynes

Daddy Update#2

2006-07-30T11:38:00.000-12:00

David said that Sophie and Luke are doing much better today! They both ate (love that yogurt) and played, and by the looks of the picture they are playing ALOT!

Luke's First Headshot

2006-07-30T01:51:00.000-12:00

Future Model? Definite cutie!!!

Daddy update#1

2006-07-30T01:03:00.000-12:00

David got the kids at 10 on Saturday morning. They were a little cranky at first, but he says they are adjusting fine and Daddy & Grandma are enjoying time with kids. Sophie apparenlty had way too much fun!

Leaving....

2006-07-27T06:40:00.000-12:00

Well tomorrow Daddy and Grandma get to spend some well deserved bonding time with Luke & Sophie! So we'll get some excellent new photos! I wonder who's going to be in charge.... My money is on Sophie, but Luke's a real contender too...
Stay tuned for updates from Daddy & Grandma Judy's great adventure!

Ouch

2006-07-27T06:35:00.000-12:00

Grandma & Daddy get ready for Vietnam!!! (One plus that Mommy can't go NO SHOTS!).
The sacrafices Grandma & Daddy make (Grandma hates needles!)

Surprise...New pictures

2006-07-20T02:07:00.000-12:00

Well I was really cranky going to work today, headache, tired.... Then I got an email from the Frank family. The Frank family is in Vietnam right now picking up Mikenzie (4months) & Mikayala, (2.5yrs). Now Mikayla happens to be at the Tam Binh orphanage. Guess who else is there? So I opend my email this morning and saw....