Life with Anna Grace

Life Goes On

2010-12-13T21:14:00.000-05:00

Our niece, Kristie, got married in early October and Anna was the beautiful flower girl. So fun.

Anna with our niece, Jenny and her new friend Violet. Precious.

My mom (MomMom) and Steve's dad (Papa). She adores them both and the feeling is mutual.

They all ate too much at Thanksgiving. Love my nieces and nephew and they adore Anna.

Anna's School Christmas Program. She was a little scared but they did a great job. It was a great program.

Merry Christmas!!

First Day of Kindegarten

2010-09-01T14:19:00.000-04:00

She is all set and ready to go. Our little girl has started Kindegarten.

In her classroom by her personal tub.

After we were done with the scavenger hunt in her classroom, she got to pick a prize from the treasure box. A red dolphin. She had a great first day and we trust she will continue to be thrilled with school. We are blessed and so thankful that we are able to send her to a christian school. God is good.

Spring Happenings

2010-06-10T14:28:00.000-04:00

Well between Preschool Zoo Day, Preschool Picnic, Visits with cousins from China and one more Zoo day, we've been busy but enjoying every minute of it. We are going to enjoy our summer because Kindegarten will start all too soon and I'm not sure I'm ready for that!!

Enjoying Spring

2010-04-22T09:52:00.000-04:00

We've had a great Spring. It started with a visit to my Mom in Florida. Anna and I were fortunate to be able to stay for two weeks. We had great weather and tons of fun. Since then, we've enjoyed some warm days here with good friends and just hanging outside.

Fun in the snow

2010-03-02T14:25:00.000-05:00

Building a fort outside

Who says you can't ride your car in the winter??

Winter Fun

2010-02-16T15:08:00.000-05:00

We had a great time this past weekend. Our visit to the Zoo was fun. Polar Bears snuggling out in the snow and just hanging out. Sweet giraffes who can't wait to get outside. We also had fun at our first attempt at ice skating. I think we'll be doing it again. In fact, Anna says she wants lessons. Oh boy.

Winter Activities

2010-01-16T11:41:00.000-05:00

Fun at Rachel's Birthday Party.

How cute is this. Lined up and waiting to bowl.

Fun outside in the snow.

Best of December 2009

2010-01-06T14:38:00.000-05:00

Christmas has already come and gone and it is already January 2010. Unbelievable. Needless to say, we had a wonderful Christmas. Below are just some December highlights.

Anna and I made Snowman Pretzels.

Random November Happenings

2009-12-05T15:54:00.002-05:00

Ready, set, jump

Daddy hit the pile first. Rosco was also in on the fun

Tuckered out

Anna's new Noah's Ark puzzle. Thanks Ms. Kathy!

Happy 58th Anniversary Nene & Papa. I love you!!

Sweet friends, Preschool & Halloween

2009-11-04T11:11:00.003-05:00

This is Rachel, one of Anna's good friends

Waiting to go on the Halloween Parade at Preschool.
Olivia is the monkey and Monica is the puppy dog. So cute.

Trying to get the kite up. It was a pretty windy day.

I'm read to go trick or treating.

What a stash!! The mother load. If only mom and dad
could stay out of it. :)

Anna's New Bookcase

2009-10-20T14:40:00.003-04:00

I found the cutest bookcase at Target last week so we bought it and below is Anna "helping" Daddy put it together. She actually was a big help and loved every minute of it.

Sillyness

Not sure what she's doing but...

All put together and ready for books.

Putting the first book on the shelf

Daddy's idea to act like your on the roof of the house.

Boo Box Arrived!!!

2009-10-08T16:19:00.003-04:00

We opened the door to leave for gymnastics and the mail lady was on the porch with a box. Anna was so excited but had to wait until we got home. She couldn't wait. She's already decided (on the porch leaving) who is the next Boo Box recipient. Who will it be???? Keep watching your front porch for a box girls. It should arrive next week sometime.

Anna's box is from Ava Bogen a/k/a Pirate Ava

A beautiful crown

All the goods

Checking everything out. Thanks again Ava. Anna loved her gifts.

A Special Day

2009-09-17T12:18:00.003-04:00

September 17 will always be a special day for a few reasons. First of all, it is the day Steve and I finally met our daughter, Anna Grace, for the first time. Second of all, it was my grandmother's birthday and the same grandma who Anna is named after. God's timing is perfect!! We are forever grateful to God for this precious gift He has given (entrusted) to us. She is a delight and our hearts are filled to overflowing. We are also grateful to God for the wonderful families that we met and traveled with, our forever friends and Anna's forever sisters. Our lives have truly been enriched. Happy Gotcha Day or Family Day to all our China sisters and families.

Waiting to go in Anna's orphanage. To say our hearts were racing is an understatement.

Once we were all back on the bus and it started to leave, every baby fell asleep. It was amazing and so quiet.

Playing with her baby. This is the same day.

This was a few days later in Guangzhou. We shopped til we literally dropped.

Today, our beautiful 4 year old Anna. She loves life, preschool, church, gymnastics and playing wild with daddy. All around happy little girl.

You're never too young

2009-09-16T15:20:00.002-04:00

Most of you know I love coupons and therefore buy 3-4 Sunday papers. Well, Ms. Anna saw that daddy was going outside to read the paper while waiting for the grill to heat up and she grabbed her favorite flyer and headed outside too.

She didn't see me taking this picture through the screen.

These next two pictures are "staged" but cute nonetheless.

3 Years Ago...

2009-09-12T09:35:00.003-04:00

Three years ago today Steve and I started our journey to China. Wow, what a long flight!! That was a whirlwind trip full of excitement, anticipation, nervousness, new friends, forever friends and sisters and finally meeting our daughter. It was a trip of a lifetime that forever changed us and our family. We are very grateful to God for how He provided, in His time, our beautiful daughter, Yu Xiao Xiao - Anna Grace. Our hearts overflow with joy because of her.

Great friends

2009-09-11T17:28:00.002-04:00

Fun times with the Zautis family. We were thrilled when we Ava Bogen was able to come for a few hours.

Trampoline fun.

You gotta love fudgicles.

Silly girls.

Birthday Fun

2009-09-02T17:06:00.002-04:00

Anna had a great Fancy Nancy birthday party. It was so fun to watch all her friends. They giggled and played and got along so nicely. We had a great time.

Anna and her friends playing before the "real" party started

Table is set, balloons ready, let the party get started.

They made wands.

After everyone left. She was SO happy (not that they left but that she had a great party).

This is what six 4 year olds can do in a matter of minutes!!

Good times

2009-08-12T09:08:00.003-04:00

Helping out front

Oh what fun.

She wasn't too sure about this but..

Rosco having a drink

He's thinkin about jumping in, but he never did

Swim Lessons

2009-07-28T12:59:00.003-04:00

Anna was so excited for her first swim class today. She did great, wasn't afraid and listened very well. She has a nice teach, Ms. Megan. Steve was able to come and we were so proud of her and couldn't believe how much she is growing up. My mom is right, you blink your eyes and they've grown.

Can't wait for class to start.

Whoo hoo, daddy came!!

Very trusting of Ms. Megan.

Having a great time.

I'm cold but can't wait for next week.

China Reunion 2009 - Revised

2009-07-02T07:39:00.001-04:00

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China Reunion 2009

2009-07-01T19:03:00.001-04:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Fun New Car

2009-06-26T14:36:00.003-04:00

Thanks to the electrician Steve works with, we have received many fun Dora toys. We finally got the car running and Anna is enjoying it very much. Still learning how to drive but she isn't too crazy. We definitely have to get our dog Rosco out of the way though!! Thanks Eric for being so generous.

Random cuteness

2009-06-14T21:05:00.002-04:00

Anna with Meredith after graduation

Fun in the hallway

Ta Da (or in gymnastic terms, I body)

Fun on the slide

A good day

2009-06-04T17:37:00.003-04:00

What do you get when you have a fun morning, some errands, a good lunch,
bike riding through the neighborhood and hitting garage sales, meeting new friends
on other streets, playdoh with neighbors and finally sitting down...

ONE TIRED LITTLE GIRL!! We had a great day together.

Fingerpainting anyone!!

2009-06-03T09:23:00.003-04:00

I should say handpainting not fingerpainting.

Lovely shade of green

She was dancing in this picture and having a great time

Memorial Day - See how we've grown!!

2009-05-28T10:24:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day 2008

Memorial Day 2009

WOW!! The tree is bigger and more leaves and Anna Grace has definitely grown. She looks so much bigger this year than last. Even though she is bigger, she can still wear those pants from last year!! We have a petite one. She is proudly holding her new princess windmill or pin wheel, whatever you want to call it. We had a great, relaxing weekend with beautiful weather.

Preschool Picnic

2009-05-25T13:25:00.003-04:00

Anna's preschool picnic was last Thursday and it was a great day. She had so much fun with her friends, the weather was beautiful and we are excited for summer.

Getting ready to leave for the picnic

Ava & Anna - buddies and just so happen to be neighbors. Ava is headed to Kindegarten in the Fall.

Anna, Laney and Ava with their new little toys

Lovin the tire swing

Daddy doing double duty!!

Face powder anyone!!

2009-05-18T20:46:00.001-04:00

Anna enjoys putting on her "makeup" while I'm getting ready

So silly

Outdoor fun

2009-05-14T19:14:00.003-04:00

It was a beautiful day to be outside.

Every girl has to have sparkle flip flops.

Trying to jump rope

Trying again

She was taking a "bath" in the bubbles

Love the bubbles!!

Anna & Rosco

2009-05-13T17:41:00.002-04:00

What could be better than taking your dog for a walk in the stroller??

A New Bike

2009-04-20T17:59:00.003-04:00

What could be better than a new bike, especially a Dora bike (except for maybe a Princess bike). Anyway, Anna is in heaven!! We were so proud of her and how well she did on her bike and of course Steve and I were telling her this as we were trying to keep up with her and to quote Anna "I'm proud of myself too."

Just put together and ready to get outside

"I can't see."

I LOVE my bike!!

Springtime Happenings

2009-04-15T16:06:00.004-04:00

Yes, we are still here!! Below are some pictures from our neighborhood Egg Hunt, enjoying the swings, Rosco trying to get Anna's egg, Anna's Easter Basket and then some pictures from Florida. We are finally enjoying warmer weather, and playing outside.

I found an egg

Rosco wanted that egg soooo bad

Easter basket treats

Florida fun

1, 2, 3 jump

Fresh Air - Folding Laundry

2009-03-05T10:51:00.003-05:00

While our southern friends get to do sidewalk chalk and play outside, we get to ride our bike in winter coat, hats and mittens!! It was a beautiful day on Tuesday (sunny and 18 degrees) so we headed out for a walk. Anna rode her bike while I walked Rosco. We had a great time.

Anna loves to help with everything and she is really good at folding washcloths!!

Mama's helper.

Ta da!!!

First visit to the dentist

2009-02-24T17:17:00.003-05:00

Anna had her visit to the dentist today for her very first cleaning. I went first and she sat on my lap and watched everything that went on. She was very curious and asked a ton of questions. Then it was her turn and she did great. She has 20 teeth and the hygienist said her teeth look really good and to "keep up the good work." Of course, she got to pick a new toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and a special prize. Overall, it was a great visit and we couldn't be prouder.

I'm ready!! Panda was a comfort, of course. In fact, she was so comfortable that she tossed panda in the chair next to her.

Counting teeth.

Getting the "toothpaste" put on. Bubblegum of course.

Sucking out the water.

Pearly whites!!

New fashion trend

2009-02-18T16:19:00.002-05:00

Who needs princess dress up clothes when you can wear a leotard and rain boots!!

Pajama Day

2009-02-03T15:51:00.002-05:00

Today was "Pajama Day" at preschool. Anna requested the doggie jammies from Aunt Lisa. They also got to take their favorite stuffed animal and hers was her panda. She had a great day. Wish I could wear my jammies all day everyday!!

New Addition To Our Family

2009-01-24T14:52:00.003-05:00

Meet our new dog, Rosco. He is a 3 year old Yorkie and he is adorable. Anna LOVES him. Someone that Steve works with needed to find Rosco a new home and the rest is history. He is fun to have around and great with Anna. He has adjusted well.

This is the first day we had him.

Rosco loves Anna's Dora blanket (she doesn't always like to share it though).

What a face!!

Rosco sleeping with his new toy Hippo.

New favorite things

2009-01-13T14:35:00.002-05:00

Anna's new Little People Princess Castle. She loves it.

Caught her mid-twirl.

2008-12-31T09:05:00.001-05:00

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Anna's Preschool Christmas Party

2008-12-17T14:39:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was Anna's Preschool Christmas Party. She wasn't quite sure about all the people watching and didn't really sing (unlike at home). It was so adorable and I was reminded how blessed Steve and I are to be Anna's parents. Our hearts were full to overflowing. To quote a good friend of mine "it could have brought a tear to a glass eye."

I don't think I'll sing.

This was about a snowman. She did the motions but didn't sing.

Still thinking about singing.

Nothing like a plate of goodies after all that singing.

Anna & Laney. Best friends. They are so cute together.

Anna, Laney & Rebecca (or Bebecca as Anna calls her). So sweet.

Snow Fun on Saturday

2008-12-08T21:01:00.003-05:00

The snow started falling Saturday morning and Anna was all over that. "I go outside, I make a snowman, I go outside." She had so much fun and didn't want to come in.

Snow angel.

Ava, our neighbor, and Anna making angels.

When you live in Michigan, you shovel your lawn!!

"It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas"

2008-12-05T14:56:00.004-05:00

Thanksgiving Weekend

2008-11-30T15:49:00.004-05:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with our families (except we forgot the camera). Thanksgiving Day we had a wonderful dinner with Steve's family and on Saturday we had another wonderful dinner with my family. Needless to say we are stuffed (no pun intended). It was a very relaxing weekend. We ran some errands, played and acted silly. A great time was had by all as you can see from some of the pictures below. Fall turned into winter as you'll see from the snowfall pictures.

Pudding or lipstick??

Just delicious!!

Sillyness in action.

Playing a game with daddy which always gets a laugh

These were taken today (Sunday). When we left for church this morning it was only cloudy. What a difference a few hours makes.

TAGGED

2008-11-24T20:31:00.002-05:00

Okay, I have been tagged by Tarita. Below are things about myself. Not too exciting I must admit.

8 Favorite TV Shows
Jon & Kate Plus 8
Biggest Loser
CSI
House Hunters
Designed To Sell
Deserving Design
Barefoot Contessa
Everyday Italian

8 Things I look forward to
Thanksgiving with family
Chongqing Sisters Reunion
Heaven
Anna's continual learning about Jesus
Watching Anna grow up
Seeing Anna's reaction to her first trip to Disneyworld
Going to my mom's condo this winter in Naples, FL
Going to bed

8 Things on my wish List
Anna's love for the Lord
Anna growing into a lovely, kind, giving, grateful young lady
Remodeled Kitchen
Trip to Hawaii
Taking Anna to Disneyworld
Lose weight
Travel to China to show Anna her birth county

8 Things I did yesterday
Went to church
Made a grocery list
Went grocery shopping
Played with Anna
Prepped chicken for the crock pot for Monday
Watched Junglebook with Anna & Daddy
Went to bed early

8 Favorite Resturants
Papa Vino's
Panera Bread
PF Changs
Tony's Pizzaria
Chicken Shack (more take out than eat in)
Anything my mom or mother-in-law cooks
J Alexander's

8 People I will Tag
Most people I know with blogs have already been tagged. I'll try Anne Bogen.

Rules1. Post the Rules on your blog2. Answer all of the six items listed3. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a message on their blog

"Julia" & Child

2008-11-22T12:24:00.003-05:00

Just a typical Saturday. Daddy's home and Anna takes advantage of Daddy's sillyness. They have so much fun together. He is the best dad and husband and we love him to pieces but I sometimes forget who is the kid around here.

Favorite Outfit

2008-11-15T15:17:00.002-05:00

Anna has graduated to a 45 minute gymnastics class for 3 and 4 year olds. She LOVES it. A couple of weeks ago one of the girls in her class brought her this leotard and she can't wait to wear it. She loves it like Annalee loved wearing bathing suits!!

She got up today and asked if she could wear it. Don't you love the shoes and jacket. Great accessories don't you think!!!!!

End of October through November 7, 2008

2008-11-13T16:16:00.001-05:00

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Anna received the Boo Box!!!

2008-10-17T08:20:00.002-04:00

Anna received her Boo Box on Wednesday night. I wasn't home when it came and Daddy says she was thrilled and took everything out. Thank you Gracie for a wonderful Boo Box!!! She loves everything in it. Princess stickers, play-doh, pom-poms, books, coloring book with crayons, Princess tote bag and some candy just to name a few things. Below are some pictures with her coveted box.

This is too precious!!

Holding up the pom-poms.

WOW, look at all my great stuff.

Even NeNe got in on the act with the stickers. Thanks for being a good sport NeNe!!

So Marie, Shoshannah or Annalee be on the lookout!! Plans are in the works.

When it gets quiet...

2008-10-15T15:06:00.002-04:00

All this mess...

equals this.
Anna had been playing in her room and it suddenly was too quiet and when I went upstairs, this is what I found. How precious!! She was even snoring.

Anna put this puzzle together all by herself and she is so proud (and me too)!!

Fun at the Farm

2008-10-14T19:18:00.002-04:00

This past weekend was so beautiful so we headed out to Three Cedars Farm. It was a beautiful drive and we had a great time. We fed the goats, milked a fake cow (Anna had fun), took a hayride, scampered through the pumpkin patch and found 3 great pumpkins. Anna had a great time on the playground as well. The donuts and cider were pretty tasty!! We love this time of year.

How cute is this!!!

Random weekend photos

2008-09-23T15:39:00.002-04:00

Anna's new kitchen. Thank you Ms. Trish!!

Cupcakes anyone!!

Gotta keep stirring...

My mom's birthday brunch this past Sunday with all her girls!! Meredith, Katie & Anna Grace. Aren't they beautiful.

My mom and all her girls.

Who could have known...

2008-09-18T15:47:00.003-04:00

Two years ago (and a day) we finally met our little girl whom we had waited for so long. Who could have known how much joy and love she has brought not only to Steve and I, but our extended family as well. I say this a lot but Anna Grace is truly a delight and we thank God for her daily. We are thankful to God for the orphanage who raised her for the first 13 months of her life and to Bethany for their wonderful help, encouragement and kindness. It's been a wonderful journey and we can't wait to see what's in store.

First time we saw her in her orphanage. Just waiting for our name to be called.

She wasn't too sure of me but this is right after they "gave" her to us. That sad face was heartbreaking but it is filled with joy now!!

Her daddy is head over heels in love. She adores him and it is wonderful to hear them laugh and play together. She loves when he walks in the door after work. She certainly doesn't have this look on her face when daddy is around.

This is the face we see most everyday!! Happy, loves life and we love her to pieces.

Two years ago today

2008-09-12T13:44:00.002-04:00

Two years ago today we left for China on the journey of a lifetime. As I was looking at Anna's original blog yesterday, the tears were flowing and it brought back so many memories for me. Anna was so scared and sad and looking at her today, she is so happy, playful and a preschooler. I can't believe how fast she has grown and below are some pictures of her first day at preschool. She LOVES it!!

I'm ready to go.

Walking to the door

Down the long hallway

At the water table. She didn't care that I was leaving (it made me a little sad)

Talking to daddy on mom's cell phone on the ride home.

August

2008-09-09T15:38:00.005-04:00

I apologize for not posting in a while but we are still having computer issues. Anyway, below are some pictures from a family weekend up north, Anna's birthday party and gymnastics class. I can't believe it is already September and our little girl has started preschool. Where does the time go??

It's My Birthday

2008-08-14T11:51:00.002-04:00

Anna celebrated her 3rd birthday yesterday and we had a great day. Enjoy some
of the pictures.

First picture being 3 years old.

Powdered donut!!

Wow, what a cake. Anna helped me decorate.

She loves her Elmo card from Nene and Papa.

After dinner fun!

Two years ago

2008-08-06T15:41:00.003-04:00

It has been two years since Steve and I first received that long awaited phone call from Bethany. I still remember being at work and the phone rang and across the caller i.d. screen came the name Bethany Christian Services and my heart skipped a beat. What a wonderful day July 31, 2006 was and will always be for us. Our lives have never been the same!!! We are a forever family.

Referral photo

This photo was on the CCWI yahoo group site. A family who had visited the orphanage in July 2006 took this and posted it. How precious for us.

July 2007 - silly girl

July 2008 - still silly and a true delight.

We are truly grateful to God who we know handpicked this precious little girl for us. He knew all along and we thank Him daily for such a wonderful gift.

Another conversation with Anna Grace

2008-08-06T15:35:00.003-04:00

Last week Anna was watching Reading Rainbow on PBS and it was about a woman who adopted some children from either Korea and the kids were talking about how they felt, etc. So I thought I would ask Anna a few questions of my own and here is how it went:

Me: "Where are you from Anna?

Anna Grace: "China."

Me: "Are you adopted?"

Anna Grace: "No mommy."

Me: "Do you look like mommy?"

Anna Grace: "Yes I do mommy."

I thought I would fall off the couch. How sweet that she sees no difference in how we look (not sure how much she notices) and it was a precious moment for me.

Recent conversations with Anna Grace...

2008-08-06T15:32:00.002-04:00

After we got home from our reunion, my mom was asking Anna the following:

MomMom: "So Anna, who does Rachel look like?"

Anna Grace: "Me."

MomMom: "Who does Ava look like?"

Anna Grace: "Me."

MomMom: "Who does Anna Marie look like?"

Anna Grace: "Me."

How sweet that these girls are truly sisters and Anna knows they look familiar and share a wonderful bond with each other.

Wonderful Reunion!!

2008-08-06T14:50:00.004-04:00

We had a wonderful time with the Zaustis's, Bogens and Nikkels. Our girls are all so different but played so nice together (for the most part). They laughed, ran, played at the beach, played dress up, played in the sandbox and on the swingset. A great time was had by all. Below are some pictures of our great time together. Thanks Dan & Nicole for hosting such a sweet time.

Get me off this pony!!

Fun in the turtle sandbox.

Ava on the slide.

Mealtime fun. Anna Marie, Linn Marie, Simone, Rachel, Ava, Anna Grace and the Nikkels' son Andrew. You think Andrew was outnumbered or what!! He was great with the girls.

Silliness.

The Bogens.

Getting ready for the beach.

Anna Marie Nikkel.

Fun day at the beach.

Hey, share those goldfish!!

Rachel, Anna Grace & Simone

Uncle Dan & Anna Grace having some fun.

All of our girls were in the Penguin room at the orphanage (hence the blanket).

The gang. The Bogens left Saturday afternoon due to some family coming into town. Sorry you couldn't have stayed longer.

The girls.

Weekend Fun

2008-07-09T16:21:00.000-04:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

New Favorite Thing

2008-07-03T16:10:00.003-04:00

Anna Grace has a new favorite thing and that would be to "help" mommy do dishes. The minute she hears me turn on the water I hear her pulling, I should say dragging, in her white chair from the living room saying "I help too." I will say she is pretty good about keeping the water in the sink and she gets a little mad when I turn it off. Anyway, I'm hoping this love of the kitchen will continue and we can enjoy many great times of cooking and baking together.

Sweet Reunion

2008-06-24T16:35:00.003-04:00

This past Saturday, we were able to spend some time with the Zautis family. We met and became fast friends while in China. They were a tremendous help to Steve and I and we cherish their friendship. Our girls shared the same room at the orphanage (the Penguin Room) and had cribs next to each other. We haven't seen them in almost 2 years and it was great to be together. Here are some pictures of Anna Grace and Rachel.

Dan, Rachel, Steve and Anna Grace. Rachel is a fish in the water!!

Keeping each other warm.

Not sure what is going on here but so cute.

Great smiles thanks to Nicole's crazy arm waving to get a smile.

Dan, Rachel and Nicole. The Zautis's also have a daughter, Simone, who was not with us on Saturday. She was having fun with her cousins on the lake. Simone is also from China and a beautiful little girl. More time together is in the works. Hopefully a visit to Wisconsin in July or August. Thanks for a great time. These little girls share a great bond and so fun to see them all thriving.

Father's Day Fun

2008-06-20T13:50:00.003-04:00

Just a couple pictures from Father's Day. Stephen had a good day, even though he was sick with a bad cold. We had a great time with family and Anna Grace had fun in Uncle Tim & Aunt Cher're's pool.

Sillyness.

Love the pool.

Wheeeeeee!!

Nothin better than a good deal...

2008-06-12T16:13:00.001-04:00

Anna is so happy that mommy found a fireman's hat and beautiful feather boa for twenty-five cents at our neighborhood garage sale!!

2008-06-06T16:18:00.000-04:00

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Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-28T16:11:00.005-04:00

We had a very relaxing weekend at home. Here are some pictures from hangin in the backyard to attending our local Memorial Day Parade.

Doing some clean up in the garden.

Her eyes are open (even though it doesn't look like it).

Can't be too careful while driving our car.

We had to get a new tree in our front yard (you can see the stump from the old tree the City had to cut down). We know that by the time Anna is 20 or older, the tree will finally have grown so we decided that on every Memorial Day weekend we would take Anna's picture in front of it to see her growth as well as the trees growth.

Looking at what is coming in the parade.

A big thank you to our veterans for serving their country. These gentlemen (were so proud). Another thank you to my father-in-law who served in the Army in the Korean War and my father who served in the Coast Guard. They served their country well and for that we are very grateful.

Not sure what she is pointing at.

She's just a flag waving American!!

The Past Few Weeks

2008-05-20T14:50:00.004-04:00

Haven't posted in a while so here are some pictures from the past few weeks.

Anna learned about Queen Esther in Sunday School and proudly wore her crown all the way home and sat so nice for a photo shoot!!

Coloring makes me thirsty.

This is Anna waiting for the school bus that comes by everyday at 7:30 a.m. She always waves and says "bye kids."

We always host Mother's Day and this is an annual photo. There are a couple people missing. My mother (who is still enjoying Florida) and my niece Jenny.

Cousins Kristie & Arielle

Neenee and Papa.

We had a great day as a family.

Fun in the wagon

2008-04-23T14:04:00.004-04:00

Our 10 year old golden retriever, Callie, has a tumor on her back leg and can no longer walk for any distance so we decided that we could "walk" her in Anna's wagon. Well, Anna thought this was great and they had a good time together. It breaks my heart to see Callie in this condition (she was my baby before Anna) but we give her the best quality of life possible and she is happy.

Anna is panting like Callie

I swear Callie is smiling, don't you think!!

Cheese.

What a way to go for a walk.

She is huggin on Callie. Callie was a little nervous about this
wagon ride at first.

Another Florida Vacation

2008-04-23T13:43:00.003-04:00

Steve, Anna and I went to Florida and we had a wonderful time. Very relaxing. It is nice to be home and the weather has been great - finally!!

1, 2, 3 jump!!

Anna made a friend at the beach. This is Megan.

Anna, Megan and Megan's brother Bradford

Ready for bed after fun in the sun

Beach at sunset

The protective dad

Anna & Mom Mom

I love to be thrown up in the air

More jumping

2008-04-05T07:13:00.001-04:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Enjoying the Beach at Sunset

2008-04-03T18:45:00.000-04:00

So beautiful. Love sunsets at the beach.

Almost gone...

She loves Aunt Lisa or Aunt Leese like Anna calls her.

I love the beach and sand!!

Easter / Spring Time Fun

2008-04-03T18:30:00.000-04:00

My sister and I decided to hit the road (and ditch the bad weather) and we drove to visit my mom in Naples, FL for Easter. LONG drive but we had a great time. Just a few pictures of our trip.

Easter morning. It was so nice to not have to put a t-shirt and tights
on Anna. Bare legs, sandals and a short-sleeved dress!!

Mom-mom came through with a great Easter basket. She is holding
one of her favorite things - M&Ms.

Having a little tea party.

Stylin by the pool!

Getting some love from cousin Katie or as Anna calls her "Kiki."
They had a great time together.

Daddy/Daughter Sing-a-long

2008-03-16T18:25:00.000-04:00

Can you guess what they are singing?

Stephen has wiped the dust off the old guitar and enjoys singing with Anna. It is one of her favorite things to do. She sings around the house, in the car, while she is eating, getting dressed, etc.

Anna is really belting it out!!

Puddle time!!!

2008-03-16T18:10:00.000-04:00

The past few days have been "spring-like" and we've loved every minute of it. Last Thursday and Friday it was in the mid-50's with sunshine and a lot of our snow if melting and needless to say, we have puddles. Oh what fun for little girls. As you can see, why walk when you can run through a puddle.

Back and forth...

She was looking at an airplane flying overhead. She knows how to ride
the bike but it is more fun to push it through the puddle.

This is poor daddy trying to get her to come in for the evening.
Her little hands were so cold and wet and her pants were soaked.
She had a great time!!

Some sillyness after the "storm"

2008-03-11T19:35:00.000-04:00

This is when Anna finally came out of her funk and was being silly. She did have, at one point, the blanket on her head and was calling herself Princess Anna. She thought that was the funniest thing.

Here she is saying "ladies and gentlemen..." She usually grabs her microphone and does this and then takes a bow.

Here she is taking her bow. So cute to watch.

Did you ever have days like this?

2008-03-11T19:20:00.000-04:00

These pictures are from last Friday. We had to take our dog Callie to the vet and I knew that as soon as I put Anna down for her regular nap, I would have had to gotten her up to leave so... needless to say, Anna crashed at 5:30 while I was making dinner. She slept until 7 p.m. and let me say that when she woke up she was a BEAR!!! Steve and I could do nothing right and nothing satisfied Anna. She finally was herself again at around 8:15 (her bedtime) so we let her stay up for another 45 minutes and she was being silly again.

This is our sweet Callie, our 10 year old Golden.
We recently lost our 12 year old Bailey, a chocolate lab.

Seriously, is it still winter!!!

2008-02-29T01:15:00.000-05:00

Well, there isn't much going on here in Michigan except to try and stay warm. The temperatures have been in the teens during the last few days and I don't see that it is warming up any time soon. In fact, tomorrow we are supposed to get 3-4 more inches of snow. I know our friends in Wisconsin can relate and I believe they have more snow and it is probably colder there!! We feel your pain. Anyway, I just wanted to share some pictures of Anna and Daddy doing a little reading and playing before bedtime the other night. Anna LOVES books and you can't read enough to her.

Cake!!!

2008-02-15T18:30:00.000-05:00

Anna and I made a Valentine's Day cake yesterday before her nap. She loves to help. She will say "Anna do, I help too pease." Anyway, I think Anna had a great time with the frosting. I think you'll agree.

Licking the spatula.

Putting sprinkles on the cake.

Who needs a fork when you can hold your cake like a sandwich. My kinda girl.

She ate every last bite!!

Fun at the Library

2008-02-13T17:05:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday mornings, Anna and I head out to our local Library (or as Anna calls it, "lidaberry") for storytime. Today we dressed in our Valentine's Day finest.

This is Anna by the fish tank, one of the things she loves about going to the Library.

Sitting on the rug for storytime. She doesn't always stay on the rug but rather wants to sit in my lap. We also sang some songs today.

After storytime the kids get to do a craft and today they made Valentine's Day cards. I wonder who Anna's card is for!!!

Gluing on a heart.

Anna made her Valentine for Daddy. I know he will love it.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!!

More fun at the Library

2008-02-13T14:57:00.000-05:00

Anna loves to play the computer games after storytime. She doesn't quite know what she is doing but she knows how to use the mouse. So cute to watch.

This little boy sat down and they had fun coloring pictures.

I think she had had enough!!

Surviving winter...

2008-02-09T11:31:00.000-05:00

Not too much has been happening around here lately. We are surviving the winter and trying not to get the winter blues. The only excitement we've had lately is Anna has a new Mickey Mouse stuffed animal. We got it yesterday at the mall and she preceded to kiss him and she said "I love you Mickey." It was so cute. Anyway, hope you all are surviving the winter. I know my friends in Georgia, Florida and Virginia aren't buried in snow. Lucky you. Anyway, just some recent pictures of Anna and Mickey and putting on her stickers she received from Ava Bogen for Chinese New Year. Eventually, all those stickers ended up on me. Thanks Ava for the gifts.

Anna giving Mickey Mouse piano lessons

Anna enjoying her stickers from Ava Bogen.

When we aren't outside in the snow.....

2008-01-22T15:50:00.001-05:00

We are having a tea party with Daddy & Pooh.

More tunnel fun.

Still loves her Choo Choo train. Thank God for Daddy's who are creative!!

Just being silly.

Cold, cold and more cold

2008-01-22T15:33:00.000-05:00

This is what we've been doing this January. Sledding in the backyard and then up north at Papa & NeeNee's house. When we are not out sledding, we are inside trying to stay warm. We've had some very frigid weather here in Michigan but Anna loves the snow and being outside.

Sledding with Papa is the best!!

I love this picture. Just walkin with the sled.

Anna & Papa trying to pull Daddy on the sled. What fun!! Daddy loved every minute of it.

Some Christmas Pictures

2008-01-07T14:19:00.000-05:00

These pictures are from Christmas Day with Steve's family. Anna has enjoyed her new Animal Hospital and as you can see, she loves the stethoscope and she listens to all areas of the body, not just the heart. You'll see she is checking out Papa's knee. The slideshow I added is of Anna in another favorite Christmas gift, the Princess Tunnel. If only I had a slideshow of when daddy crawls in and rolls around!!

Happy New Year

2008-01-03T20:07:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share with everyone that we had a wonderful Christmas as a family. Anna Grace had so much fun opening presents and every present she opened came with the same comment in such a heartfelt way "oh my." It was the cutest thing ever. Anna Grace has a wonderful and very generous family. She doesn't have a favorite gift and plays with everything. Our house isn't that big so Steve and I had to do some rearranging and let's just say that Anna Grace will be thrilled when we pull out some toys from the attic!!

Steve had some vacation time over the holiday so we had so much fun together. We did a little after Christmas shopping, played alot, played outside in the snow and generally had a very relaxing time.

Staying in the same spirit, I wanted to pass along a wonderful story and website that I just learned about from Anna Grace's Chongqing Sister, Southern Ava (really her mom Conway). The Gillean family was part of our travel group and they adopted CaraGrace and are now in the process of adopting another little girl from the same orphanage. I remember seeing this sweet little girl while waiting to be called up to receive our Anna Grace and I remember her smiling and being so happy and wanting to be loved. You may need tissues when you read the story, I certainly did. The story brought back so many wonderful memories of our experience. Anyway, Steve and I have made a donation to the Gillean's adoption fund on behalf of Jiang Ning's Chongqing Sisters, Anna Grace, Annalee, Gracie, Shoshannah, Northern Ava, Southern Ava and Jiang Ning's Nanchang Sister, Marie. Please read and pray and give if you can. My heart was touched deeply and I know yours will be too. Here is the website: http://www.gilleanfamily.com/

2007-12-24T15:17:00.000-05:00

I stole this idea from Rossette but I was just looking through my pictures on the computer and happened to open up this folder of the pictures I took for last year's Christmas card. What a difference a year makes. Our little girl is growing up so fast and she is SO much fun. We have loved watching her grow, her personality developing, the talking and talking and talking!! Anna Grace is a delight and as you can see, she still loves her bubby.

Anna's Snowman one day later...

2007-12-24T15:14:00.001-05:00

As promised, here is a picture of Anna's snowman just one day later. How sad is this!! I don't know if you can see in the picture but the carrot nose and raisins for the mouth are on the ground as well as his hat.

Making a Snowman

2007-12-23T16:08:00.000-05:00

We wanted to get outside before all the snow melted due to warmer temperatures and rain on the way (YUK). Anna and daddy had so much fun. Daddy also taught Anna how to make and throw snowballs. I got some good video and will post that tomorrow. These pictures were taken yesterday (Saturday) and when we woke up today, the snowman's head had fallen off, along with one one of his arms. Very sad day for the snowman. I'll post a picture of the headless snowman tomorrow.

The Henry Ford Museum

2007-12-23T15:57:00.001-05:00

We took Anna Grace to The Henry Ford last weekend and she had a great time. They have big trains that she could sit on and they had a couple different displays with model trains going around different tracks and one of the trains she was able to turn off and on. As you can see from the pictures, she enjoyed herself. Towards the end of our day, and after our lunch, they had a big table where kids could make Christmas crafts. This is Anna's Princess Christmas Crown.

2007-12-23T15:52:00.000-05:00

Anna's Choo Choo Train

2007-12-23T15:48:00.000-05:00

As I've mentioned before, Anna LOVES her train that daddy made for her and she LOVES to decorate it. Tonight was painting night.

Pictures That Didn't Make The Christmas Card

2007-12-23T15:38:00.000-05:00

The picture in the middle Anna Grace is holding her beloved "bubby". The last picture is quite solemn and I believe she is probably saying to herself "if my mommy asks me to smile one more time..."

2007-12-23T15:32:00.000-05:00

I thought I would share some of the pictures that didn't make the Christmas card this year. It was a lot of work to get a couple good pictures of Anna Grace. Needless to say, I was sweating and frustrated but these next few pictures are pretty cute. She can be a little ham when she wants to.

Merry Christmas!! Note to Annalee: Anna is holding the cute little toy you sent her. She loves it!!

Anna's Express

2007-12-07T15:58:00.000-05:00

This is what happens when you can't play outside because it is too cold. Daddy gets creative and makes a train out of Mommy's Southern Living boxes from the party she had. It has wheels, windows, doors, and duct tape!! This is her new favorite toy.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2007-11-29T14:44:00.000-05:00

We had a great Thanksgiving with my family. Ate too much as usual but the food was delicious (thanks Mom) but we all pitched in a little. I spent the morning baking and Steve had a great time playing with Anna. This is how I found her while watching Barney. Quite the fashion statement.

Thought I would share a picture of all of us, not the greatest picture and it is probably because we ate too much!!

On Friday, we traveled to Houghton Lake, Michigan to stay with Steve's parents and we arrived in time for lunch. Anna insisted on holding Papa's hand and he had to eat left-handed. I don't think he minded one bit!! How cute is that.

Saturday morning and nothing is better than a Mickey waffle made with love by Nana (or Neenee as Anna calls her).

Just chilling with my Papa and Pooh Bear and watching Lawrence Welk. Does life get any better???

Yes life does get better when you can watch Barney with Papa in your jammies. Anyway, we had a great time with our families and again counted our blessings. We have so much to be thankful for!! Now it is time to get ready for Christmas. Can't wait to see how Anna does with the tree this year!!

Anna's First "Official" Haircut

2007-11-29T14:33:00.001-05:00

We took Anna for her first "official" haircut the day before Thanksgiving. As you can see, she didn't want to sit in the chair by herself. She was a little nervous about the whole thing, but after a bit she calmed down and sat still and did great.

She is still not too sure but...

Ta da!! Anna's hair looks adorable, thanks to Stacy.

November Days...

2007-11-21T07:25:00.001-05:00

Well tomorrow is Thanksgiving and a day of baking in the morning and eating in the afternoon. We will spend the afternoon and evening at my sister's enjoying family and God's blessings! We sure have a LOT to be thankful for. We will head to Houghton Lake, MI on Friday-Saturday to spend time with Steve's parents and Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Bill. Hopefully we will see some deer at Aunt Cheryl's house. Anna always enjoys that!

Anna had so much fun throwing the leaves up in the air. She also was making leaf angels so I imagine she'll have fun making snow angels in the winter.

Anna and I had some fun in the leaves in our front yard last week. We marched around and kicked the leaves. We had a good time. We have even more leaves now but I believe the trees are almost done dropping so time to rake!!

As long as no one can see me I guess that means I don't have to go to bed!! She also has her crocs on. Please don't mind mom's behind in the photo. Daddy forgot to crop that out!! Anna is such a ham and of course will do anything to get out of going to bed!!

Falling leaves!!

2007-11-06T15:16:00.000-05:00

Daddy and Anna had fun in the backyard last week making a big
leaf pile. This is them laying down in the leaves. Anna
didn't want to get up. She had a great time. Our yard is
covered again and our trees still have tons of leaves on them.
I think we will have a lot of leaf piles for Anna to jump in.
It is cold here today and very windy and wet. YUK!

Halloween Fun!!!

2007-11-06T14:46:00.001-05:00

This is what happens after a juice box, some candy and a few
bites of grandma's cake!! Hangin upside down with my Papa.

This is Anna's silly picture. I had given our neighbors
a treat bag with these silly glasses in them. So here is
Anna in her glasses with a piece of candy in her mouth.
Her proud Papa is enjoying her silliness too!!

This was after trick or treating. We finally got Anna to sit down for

one minute!! Daddy made her a Mickey Mouse pumpkin. The other

pumpkin is a bat.

Whew whoo, more candy!! Little does she know that mommy and daddy

have been eating her candy. It was the thrill of the hunt for Anna. She ran from

house to house. Her old mother could barely keep up. We had so much fun!!

This is Anna saying "thank you" with her sign language.

Anna Grace, my little ballerina.

My Little Pumpkin

2007-10-30T16:22:00.000-04:00

I see when I posted that the last picture of Anna is fuzzy. I think I stretched it out when I was trying to move it over. Anyway, here it is again.