Journey To Tamara

Tamara's 7th Birthday An American Girl Party

2012-01-29T18:40:00.000-08:00

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Monster Mash 10-21-11

2011-10-22T16:21:00.000-07:00

Monster Mash 2011

Princess Tamara's First Monster Mash at school was a great success.

Everyone had so much fun. Tamara and her friends danced the night away.

This was also her debut with her new glasses. A huge hit.

Apparently glasses are the new "HOT" fashion accessory in the 1st grade?

Who knew? Right?

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First Day of First Grade

2011-09-06T07:59:00.000-07:00

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Here? My Home?

2011-08-20T00:26:00.000-07:00

Here? My Home?

I was chatting away online yesterday trying to figure out how to help.. bring another angel home to his parents. Tamara kept coming in my office asking I play dolls with her.
She had pulled out all her long haired dolls and was playing day spa.

I explained "Mommy can't play right now. I'm trying to help bring a little boy home."
Excited and concerned she said "Here.. My home?"
"No honey.. he didn't grow in your Mommy's heart he grew in another woman's heart. And she's having trouble bringing him home and her heart is breaking.
So Mommy is trying to figure out how we can help them. OK?"
" OK mommy" and she gives me a huge hug and kiss on the cheek
and runs off to play.

A few hours pass and she and I are sitting on the front porch eating Fruit Popsicles enjoying a beautiful day. I notice an eye lash on her cheek.
"Hold still"
I get the lash and hold it gently between my fingers.
"Close your eyes and make a wish."
"I wish....."
She grows silent? and blows the lash out of my hand.
"What did you wish for Tamara?"
I asked wondering if I'd jinx it.
"I wish the little boy come home to his mommy's heart."
Jumping into my arms. And with that she melted my heart.. yet again.
For those of you who wonder why I care as much as I do.. This is why!!!
~~~

Rainy Day Fun

2011-07-27T06:43:00.000-07:00

Rainy Day is always Fun with Tamara

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Special Thanks to Amber of http://www.born4couture.com/

She treated Tamara to Flower hair clips in every color they make. So much fun!!!

Enjoy!

~~~

Gods Heart: Adoption

2011-07-13T13:11:00.000-07:00

Christening Persistence 7-10-11

2011-07-11T13:33:00.000-07:00

Christening Persistence 7-10-11

This Sunday we attended a boat Christening.

The Persistence is Zoran (my brother) and Olga's new Toy.

A lovely little 3 bedroom , 2 bath sailing vessel.

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A rather small gathering with a few relatives.. some holy water and some champagne.

A relaxing.. fun day.

You may have noticed I've been taking advantage of some video programs as of late. Trying to catch up .. these programs are so much easier to download then traditional photos.

We'll get there don't worry.

Enjoy and we'll be back ;o)

~~~

Day at the beach

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

This was Summer of 2010. I'm trying out a new video program. Just thought I'd share.

Enjoy!

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

~~~

Lunch on the lake with Tamara 7-5-11

2011-07-05T21:17:00.000-07:00

Lunch on the lake with Tamara.

Special thanks to Amber owner of Born for Couture of Dallas Tx. http://www.born4couture.com/ for spoiling Tamara with a rainbow of wonderful flower hair clips. She loves them Amber. Thank You so very much!!! Hugs!!! Enjoy the video.. click on the bubbles. This one is fun! ;o)

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~~~

Who's Dream are you buying? 7/5/11

2011-07-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

Who's Dream are you buying?

Please watch this thought provoking video about adoption.

Regardless of who you are or what you believe in...

it should get your wheels turning

in the right direction.

~~~

Happy 4th 2011

2011-07-05T09:28:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th 2011

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He's late coming home...

2011-07-03T21:11:00.000-07:00

He's late coming home....

Somewhere in the ________. In a foster home sits a young boy. He has waited to come home for as long as our Tamara has been home.

Somewhere in the USA his mother waits, worries, prayers every morning and every night.

She prays that he is safe and healthy, she prays that he isn't hungry, lonely or sad.

If you could ask her what she wants most tonight I'm sure she would say to have my Levi home. To be able to hold him and let him know that he is loved, wanted and cared for.

If we could ask Levi what he wants most.

I'm sure Levi would say.. To have a family and be loved.

_____ Levi born in _______is stuck there in a Foster Home. His family is about to prepare their 4th Dossier for the ________.

They need our help as finances are tight and Dossiers can be pretty expensive to prepare.. especially after a 2nd, 3rd and 4th run. I usually don't post fundraisers for adoptions but _______ is different. ______ is one of our children which should have come home in 08. Like Tamara, Hannah, Sophia and Catherine (oh how I wish I could show you how adorable these little girls are.) _______ Levi has a family here in the states. He has sisters and brothers and wonderful parents who hope, wish and pray every day for their little boy. ________ is different because he is a living reminder that there but for the grace of God goes my daughter.

_______ is different because he is the one who got left behind.

Won't you help us bring him home?

Their blog link....

http://ridinthewavewithulord.blogspot.com/

His mom Alysha is having a fund raiser. Win a THE NEW FLIP SLIDE HD.

Before I go I'd like to address something. I'd like to address fundraising. Over the years I've seen hundreds of prospective adoptive parents trying to raise funds for their adoptions. Parents who has tapped out their finances doing IVF for years or perhaps have had multiple failed adoption attempts. It happens. No one likes to think about it and we tend not to discuss it. It's about children after all. But it's a real concern.. this finance thing.

I read two blogs today that asked for financial support. Both mothers are religious and pray on things. I found myself annoyed as I read the blogs. Both mentioned needing new vans to hold their newest additions. One asked for help relocating some rescue cats that were taking up residence in the new children's bedroom. Annoyed that they hadn't prepared "well enough" and they felt that if they prayed God would find a way. I came down stairs and told my husband about it. What's wrong with people? I asked. Remembering how detail oriented I was before going to get Tamara. Everything had to be perfect back then. I checked my lists and checked them twice, three time, four times. How could someone not have a car big enough or even a fully decorated , stocked bedroom waiting for two little girls?

And then it hit me. Their prayers will be answered. Perhaps they already have been for through my annoyance I have been called to action. I'm sure there are others.

So I am asking ALL of you with soft hearts and deep pockets to help Alysha bring her son home. Alysha and I have become somewhat close in the past few years. I've been following her progress lending advice and moral support when needed. I'm pretty sure these moms will understand my post and my annoyance. You see it really isn't about them.. they're fine. In fact this post is really about me realizing yet another "Ah Ha" moment.

They prayed... and guess what I helped them pray. lol.. Now seriously did you ever pray for something and not help it happen? Genius! Simply Perfect!

Yes.. through God ALL things are possible.

Like I posted on a friends wall today on FB ...

"Lots of Prayers and hugs on their way. Stay positive... always look up!!! xoxo"

Lets bring this little boy home to his mother!!!

~~~

Sailing 7-2-11

2011-07-03T17:18:00.000-07:00

Sailing 7-2-11

This was our 17th wedding anniversary. Can you believe it?

WOW.. that went fast.

Anyway.. we went sailing with my brother and his family.

A wonderful relaxing day.

Tamara is a natural.. she LOVES boating.

Enjoy!

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Just for fun... 6-25-11

2011-06-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

Just for fun..

What little girl doesn't like to play dress up?

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Kindergarten yearbooks part 1 and part 2

2011-06-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

As class mom I was able to take tons.. hundreds... of photos. In a brief moment of insanity I decided to make them yearbooks. Here are some of the photos and videos being used. If you see an arrow on a picture click it. It will come to life.. Enjoy!

Part I

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Part II

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Celebrate Good Times

2011-06-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

Celebrate... Life is too short not to....

Do the things you love.. with those you love.

This May 1oth we flew off to celebrate life.

My 50th was just around the corner as was Tamara's 3rd Gotcha Day!

So rather then stay home and spend thousands on parties to entertain others and exhaust ourselves we decided to take a much needed and deserved vacation instead.

We decided to do something special just for us for a change.

Being that it was my "BIG Day" ? I got to choose.

I had always wanted to go swim, frolic and play with the dolphins.

Tamara now age 6 was finally old enough to get in the water with them.

It was perfect something unusual, memorable (especially for Tamara).

Something off my bucket list.

Now don't get nervous I'm not going skydiving any time soon and

that bungee jump will have to wait.

Anyway.. It was a perfect day. The weather was perfect.. always is on my Birthday.

That would make 50 years of perfect weather .. Yay!

We we assigned to Jinnie a almost 40 year old dolphin. That was just as sweet as can be. She somehow understood that we were a family and knew instantly that Tamara was our baby.

The private cabana was stocked. The snorkeling was awesome. Tamara after practicing in Mommy's tub at home did great. The only thing that freaked her out a bit was when a 4 ft sting ray swam underneath us. Yikes! Shhh... me too ;o)

Anyway... Enjoy the pictures.. There much much more to catch up on. Stay tuned. Oh and BTW... the will probably be the last time we mention my age. OK?

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Tamara's Dance Recital June 3-4 , 2011

2011-06-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

Tamara's Ballet Recital was last weekend.

She's doing really great. She has such a stage presence and seems very comfortable on stage. When you watch the video clip you may notice she seems a bit off at first. She was looking for us in the front row where we sat the night before during the dress rehearsal. She does recover well and at this age (now 6) the girls are so adorable. Enjoy!

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2008 through 2009

2011-03-11T10:58:00.000-08:00

2008-2009

Yes we are still here. I thought I'd share a little clip I put together I while back which covers Tamara's first year and a half home. 2008 through 2009.

The changes in her the 1st year and a half are amazing.

Now as we approach our 3rd year together. Yes my baby is 6 already.

I am in awe of her.

Her progress, intelligence, wonderful sense of humor and most importantly her gentle nature, powerful spirit and huge warm heart. It is truly an honor to be her Mommy.

Enjoy the clip... comments as always are welcome.

We'll be back soon. As Tamara would say "I palmiss" ;o)

Ta Da November 2009

2010-11-20T23:31:00.000-08:00

Ta Da..

We made it to November 2009

Yay! We're catching up.

Below Tamara's getting ready to go visit her Grandparents.

On the way we run into some interesting ducks.

They reminded me of our old pom pom ducks

See "Oh Ducky" post

Cousins Katie and Nicky were waiting to play.

Tamara decides it's "show time"

Please watch this series of videos as she not only entertains but gets everyone in the act.

She is fun.. no doubt about it!

ENJOY!!!

Make sure the sound is on and you may want to mute the music for these.. to get the FULL effect. ;o)

~~~

End of October 09

2010-11-20T06:58:00.000-08:00

End of October 09

Yes it snowed very early last year. The first of many snow falls that we had last year.

Below Tamara goes for a walk with Mama and Dada.

And there they go... a little more color perhaps? Um...

There we go... Tamara and Dada enjoying the snow while I hang back and take pictures. ;o)

There's my little girl smile.

She LOVES snow!!!

Taking care of one of her many babies.

She'll be a great Mommy some day!

And / Or perhaps a great Architect?

Checking the structure on her doll house no doubt..lol

Tamara takes over Mommy's baby lap top.

It is stationed on the kitchen island for quick peeks into cyber space and Tamara's entertainment.

She like to help.

good little helper.

Time to gear up and go riding.

Wait a minute Mom ... I have an idea.

Yeah.. a great idea.

Dada helping her keep her balance.

After preschool..

Here pony costume. She loves this thing.

What a sweetie.

Dress rehearsal for the preschool Halloween parade.

She went as a Dept 56 SNOW ANGEL.

Love the detail on these wings

She loved these boots so much we bought her for them again this year.

In fact I even got them for her American Girl Doll to match. ;o)

The parade. Tamara and her classmates pose for pictures.

The girls.

I hope they stay friends.

She gets to see one of them in school every day.

We'll need to get together with the other two soon.

Coming in to sing.

Happy to report she stayed clean all day.

OK.. more videos.

ENJOY!!!

~~~

2010-11-19T20:37:00.000-08:00

October 2009 continues...

Tamara enjoying her piano.

Baby Violin...

At Mededith's Baby Shower

She gets to play with Julia

And meets Gigi for the first time.

Afterwards we go visit my parents and play with cousins Nicky and Katie.

Tamara get's to borrow her cousin DS game.

Katie gives lessons. ;o)

Cousin Nicky gives tips too.

What ya doin down there Katie?

Ready for ballet

Enjoy the video. ;o)

~~~

October 2009

2010-11-19T07:22:00.000-08:00

October 2009

Fall 2009 brought lots of activity.

Despite our bout with pneumonia and surgery for mom we managed to have some fun.

Bath time

At a friend's Birthday Party

A day with friends from preschool picking apples and pumpkins.

Yum...

picking apples

Pumpkin picking with Mommy

Looking for the Great pumpkin

How about this one?

Videos...

on the hay ride with Mrs. Stevens .. one of her preschool teachers

and

Having some Birthday cake at Zach's house.

~~~

You Just Can't Make This Stuff Up

2010-11-17T20:04:00.000-08:00

September 2009

Well let the games begin...

Where do I begin?

How do I tell you all so many things in such a small amount of time and space?

I've been holding off writing about ??? What do I call this? Life? I wasn't used to "Life" like this. Not really. Where did this "STUFF" come from?

Who's "life" is this anyway?

First off let me explain who I am.. really.

Perhaps then you'll understand or try to?

I don't do pity parties.. not for myself.. not for others. Never have.. never will.

Now don't get me wrong I'm not a cold hearted witch by any stretch. I listen.. give out hugs, wipe away tears and find solutions. I do sympathize, mourn, get mad, sad and then try to get past it. Although I believe in the power of prayer I do not need anyone leaving prayers on my voice mail, text or as in one case stopping me at my daughter's party at the golf club this May to give me their version of a pep talk. I do not generally need pep talks.. I give them.

I am NOT depressed.. I am pissed. There is a huge difference.

I do not and will not take a pill so you feel better. So you feel like you helped somehow.

That is absolutely ridiculous.

The main reason I didn't update our blog until now is I was waiting for things to get settled so I could put a positive spin on all this. You see there are hundreds.. perhaps thousands of adoptive parents, social workers from around the world who pop in to see how we're doing. I didn't want to discourage anyone from adopting or placing a child with an older couple. Age is a somewhat relative term. Yes.. raising a now 5 year old would have been easier 10 years ago.. maybe? We were different people 10 years ago. The world was a much different place 10 years ago. Think about it. What were you doing 10 years ago? Did you do it right? Would you like a do-over?

OK.. so by now you're probably scratching your head saying... WHAT???

So.. are you ready?

Let the Games begin...

The Thursday after Labor Day 2009 Tamara and I developed a wicked cough. The kind that makes you feel like you might cough up a lung or something like? I immediately took her to the Pediatrician who informed me I was an over protective first time Mom. Her lungs sounded clear after all. And it was allergy season. All the kids have this. "Relax Mom" I was told.

I noted that several of her preschool classmates sounded like us and again I was told by the Preschool director. "It's allergy season. All the kids have this." "Relax Mom".

About half way through the month a visit to my Dermatologist resulted in a half dozen routine biopsies. When the results came back I was shocked to learn that a few had come back positive for dysplastic nevus. A form of skin cancer that if not addressed could turn into the ever dreaded Melanoma. Surgery was scheduled and I was ready to go. The evening before while routinely taking Tamara's temperature I had discovered that although she was fine I had a low grade fever. I quickly called our internist to ask her if there could possibly be a reason why I shouldn't have the surgery with a low grade fever. She asked to see me 1st thing in the morning.

She listened to my cough.. lungs sounded clear but wanted a chest x-ray just in case. My chest x-ray showed I had a viral walking pneumonia. I was given scripts for it and told to post pone my skin cancer surgery. As soon as I got home I called Tamara's Drs. and insisted they see her. When we arrived I told them about my diagnosis and how my Dr. couldn't hear it either. Again I was told. "She's OK.. it's just allergies. We can tell if they have pneumonia. And was sent home with a script for a cough syrup for her. Told to relax "mom".

Another few weeks go by.. my cough goes away.. Tamara's doesn't. One day my sister in law calls me. My nephew who had been playing with Tamara came down with the same strain of viral pneumonia. That's it... I said she's getting x-rayed today! I once again went to the pediatricians. I told them what happen with my nephew and was told. We don't like to x-ray 4 year olds. She's fine.. it's allergies. You're being over protective. OK.. at some point they push you too far. I don't over react... I'm not a paranoid mom. At this point I had had my daughter for over a year and pretty much knew everything about her. I raised my voice. Yes.. I yelled a bit. "Either you x-ray her today or I will find someone who will and when that x-ray comes back positive ... you'll be hearing from my attorney." Well that did it.. suddenly the x-ray referral is called in. The Dr. told me I was exposing my daughter to unnecessary RADS and she is only complying at my request. lol. Fine... let's go. Off we go.

I went in with Tamara to make sure the positioning was correct. Yes I know I exposed myself to unnecessary RADS.. she's my daughter wouldn't you? We got the shot first try. Yay! And guess what. This paranoid.. over protective Mom was right. My daughter and I were exposed to a viral pneumonia sometime over Labor Day weekend. Unfortunately it took about 3 weeks for my diagnosis and another 3 for my daughters.

I'm happy to report it doesn't look like we were any worse for the wear. My husband was also treated as a precaution.

Now.. I go to the preschool committee meeting which just so happen to be that night. I tell them the "so called allergy the kids have is really a viral pneumonia and the parents must be told." I was told. They can't be. You see in late August the CDC had a conference with all the preschool directors and the county Board of Health regarding the H1N1 virus. I was asked as a committee member to attend that meeting. There I sat 2nd row center with our Director. And we were told by the CDC and Board of Health not to inform the parents of a potential outbreak of H1N1. The theory was that if the infected children were in school at least they'd be in class and the CDC would be able to better contain the problem. You see in Spring of 09 when the H1N1 seemed to be running rapid in Texas and the schools and school districts started to close one right after another what they found is... imagine this... Parents were not keeping little Suzie home.. they were setting up play dates. Taking her to the mall and dropping her off at Grandma's. No containment. No control. There was also an issue of privacy. The patient confidentiality act was fairly new and being mis interpreted. I was told I could not make an announcement because I would be representing the committee. The school would not tell them because of the privacy act even though I gave them permission to tell the other parents. I think they were afraid of losing customers. So I privately contacted parents who's children had "the cough". After listening to it for 6+ weeks you know what it sounds like. The parents were grateful and a few of the children did test positive and were treated successfully. Yay!

OK.. In the mean time. I'm back on schedule to have my skin cancer surgery. I will have had about one every 3 weeks for the next 6 months. A total of 7 out patient surgeries resulting in over 350 stitches. The good news is so far all the surgeries have been successful and to my Drs amazement I didn't require any pain meds. That's not to say there was no pain or discomfort just not bad enough to warrant popping a pill. OK.. I'm getting ahead of myself here. Back up to November a bit.

Are you still with me? Pay attention now. This segment has nothing to do with "my life " as I see it. It's some fluke? A series of bazaar events effecting me and those I care about.

I'm going to bring you all up to speed so hold on. Once I'm finished we'll fill in the months of gaps on our real life. The life you all really are here to read about. My life with Tamara. ;o)

So we're in November 09. My surgeries continue. Tamara is feeling better and back in school and at dance. In November Tamara and I catch the H1N1 virus. Luckily we were so in the loop because of my surgeries and my mistaken identity as a over protective / over reactive mom in October that it was diagnosed almost immediately and treated accordingly. Yay!

Once again I have a confrontation with the school director. According to CDC rules they don't even want to know that we have a confirmed case of H1N1 in our school. You just can't make this stuff up. Really!!!

Early December our family has yet another unexpected series of events. I don't remember the exact date .. I could look it up but it really doesn't matter. But I do know it was during the Christmas Holiday Season.. well before Christmas as I sent both boys a Christmas tree in lou of flowers. My two nephews both ended up in ICU the same week. One in NJ with a lacerated liver. A snow boarding accident. The other in Connecticut with a collapsed lung. Both teens had us sitting at the edge of our seats for weeks.

Christmas came and went and was fairly uneventful. Although my parents were driving me nuts. They got it in their heads that people die right after Christmas and wanted me to research and then call some of my childhood friends just to find out if their parents were still alive. LOL.. Oh Dear God.. I thought "What on earth is this all about"??? Is this what having aging parents is like?

"Hello Suzie? It's Lee _____. Remember me? Yeah we used to be friends some 35+ years ago. How are you? Great! Listen... I'm calling to see if your parents are still breathing?

Oh I'm sorry. They did? You are? OK... wow.. that's too bad. Oh sure.. why not. I'd love to see you too. Next week.. Um.. No.. no.. I'm so busy lately. Yeah sure you can call me.. ah ha. "

Oh yeah.. give me the list.. I'm on it? Oh boy!!!

January ... Happy New Year right?

I had continued my surgeries straight through the holidays. Late January we celebrated Tamara's 5th. 4 days of celebrations. Everything went smoothly and without a hitch. No colds.. no flu.. no pneumonia. Just a few dozen stitches in my back to remind me to appreciate every moment.

The Wednesday after her Birthday weekend. Bruce on a conference call.. wearing his head set comes to my desk.. lifts his pant legs and says do these look normal? His one leg was about 30% larger and purple.

"Oh shoot... I think you have a blood clot" We need to call the Dr. We get an appointment immediately and then I call the preschool. "Get Tamara ready we have a medical emergency I'm picking her up in 5". We swing past the school I strap Tamara into her car seat knowing this would take more then a few hours she needed to be with me.

They do a direct admit with Bruce. He had a blood clot from his ankle to his knee. Great?

Tamara is fine with our adventure until they wheel Daddy off and we can't follow. Because of the H1N1 outbreak no one under 18 is allowed past admissions. She cried from the Hospital all the way to McDonald's. Not my favorite food option but I thought someone might need a Happy Meal. :o( When we pulled into Micky D's I turned around and found myself being a little stern. Pointing .. no wagging my finger I said. "Stop crying. Daddy will be OK. Daddy needs his girls to stay strong" and she stopped. "OK Mum.. no more."

I called my mother told her what was happening and told her I'd call her when I get home. Swung through the drive through and came home. When I got home I found a message from my parents. They were on their way to baby sit so I could go back to the hospital. This was the first time they were going to babysit Tamara in almost a year and a half since we've been home from Tbilisi.

I decided to change Tamara into something more comfortable as she was still dressed for school. I took her upstairs and as my eyes met hers I felt myself starting to lose it. My eyes started to swell up with tears. Just looking at this beautiful little girl. A little girl who has had so much heart break at such an early age already. Surely she won't lose another set of parents I thought. Dear God.. she can't... I thought. And right on cue. My perfect little daughter looks at me. Starts to wave her little pointer finger in my face..

" No Mum.. Dada be OK. No Mum.. Dada be OK. No cry"

I had to smile. She was right. Daddy would be OK.

That's My Girl !!!

Back at the hospital my husband was in ICU getting ready for surgery the next day. Mom ended up spending the night for the next few nights as Thursday they only managed to recover 75% of the clot and needed to go back in the next day. Friday he was going into surgery at 6 am. I overslept and woke up at 5:40. I called him.. If I fly I can get there in time to see him get wheeled off. He told me to stay put. Have breakfast with the girls and come toward the end of surgery. Seemed logical... I told myself. It will be OK.

A few hrs later I arrive at the hospital and am escorted from the front main entrance to the Cardiac unit. "What's Up?" I asked. "We're having a Cardio incidence" I'm told. A what? Turns out I almost became a widow that morning. What was expected to be a routine text book perfect procedure turned into a nightmare. After he was stabilized the surgeon came out to me to apologize. He told me he didn't pre medicate my husband enough for the iodine allergy and Bruce went into Anaphylactic shock on the table. He remembers his throat closing.. and them yelling .."stay with us" as he was watching the light at the end of the tunnel. Yup.. it's official there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Friday afternoon was fairly uneventful. Bruce was doing well in ICU. Tamara and Baba were bonding.. having fun at home. It was starting to look like the crisis might be over? Under control? Is that possible?

Saturday.. I go visit Bruce. He's doing great. They say he'll be released after they perform a stress test on Monday. During the cardio incident .. the cardiologist thought he may have seem something. Just wanted to check and make sure. Ok.. no problem we thought.

Around dinner time Bruce suggests I go home.. have dinner with the girls and then come back later. Great idea I thought.. I'm sure they could use the company. I called.. Mom wanted to go home and pick up a few things so I agreed. Mom doesn't drive and lives 40 min. away. And a bit of fresh air would do us all good I thought. I pick the girls up drive to baba's. Visit with my Dad and then drive home again. Stopping at the market to pick up a few things.

When we got home Mom / Baba asked me to help her to the bathroom?

Strange .. "you OK Mom?" "I'm having trouble seeing" she said. She was totally disoriented. Asking me where the bathroom was when I had her standing next to the toilet.

"Tamara bring Mommy the phone" Tamara comes running to see what was happening. "Tamara bring Mommy the phone now!!!" I yell. Baba got mad at me for yelling at Tamara. "It's OK Mom.. she has to learn to do what I say the 1st time" . Tamara brings me the phone I dial 911. I tell them her symptoms and say.. "I think it may be a stroke.. hurry."

I walk Mom back to the family room and have her sit in our club chair with a cold compress because she was complaining of pain. Tamara watched.. held Baba's hand. "Baba you OK?" she kept asking.

Soon the EMT's arrived. Escorted by one of our finest in blue. The policeman whom I knew was wonderful. He immediately told the EMT's that there was a little one in the house so they needed to work quickly and discreetly.

Luckily because Mom was spending the night and she had just picked up more of her stuff we had all her meds, vitamins and such with us. She was transported to the local hospital via ambulance and after calling my brother to pick up my Dad (Didi) and meet us there Tamara and I followed in my car.

Ok.. so I get to the hospital with Tamara. I have a husband in ICU and my Mom in the ER and I have my 5 year old with me so we're not allowed past the ER waiting room. Ugh!! You really can't make this stuff up. I call Bruce from my mobile to his. Tell him what's going on and not to worry. Soon my brother and dad show up and they go in to be with Mom. Yup she had a Cerebral Hemorrhage and needed to be airlifted to another hospital where there was a team of nero surgeons waiting for her if the bleed didn't stop.

My sister in law came and she watched Tamara so I could go visit mom and Bruce. I had about 10 minutes before the helicopter took off. I ran to see mom... tell her she was going to be OK and that I loved her. I then had about 5 minutes to go see my husband in ICU. As I ran through the hallways from the ER to ICU the strangest thing happen. I was met by standing hospital personnel and security at every corner telling me which way to go. Left.. right.. straight. Doors were opened for me. They all knew who I was and exactly where I was going. Like a well oiled machine.. an Olympic team.. they got me there and back in record time.

Back home... I was basically stuck. Tamara was in pre-school for only a few hours a day 3 days a week and refused to leave Mommy's side. So she stayed home with me. I couldn't go visit Bruce and I certainly couldn't go visit Mom who was now hours away. So I waited at home for Monday to arrive.

My sister in law dropped off my niece one afternoon for a few hours. Long enough for me to take a shower and then give Tamara a bath. It was nice just having that short 15 min. break to shower and not worry about anyone for a brief moment. A sanity break if you will.

And my friend Sondra called me every few hours just to make sure we were OK. Somehow knowing that if I dropped help would come helped.

In a few days Bruce was being released. I couldn't go get him in his room so Tamara and I waited downstairs for the nurse to bring him to the lobby and then out to my car. Remember no kids due to H1N1.

Once we got home my sister called and said she spoke to the nurse and Mom had taken a turn for the worse. If I can I should go see her. I couldn't leave Tamara with Bruce alone yet so we decided to all go to see Mom. As we were loading the car my sister called back and said false alarm the nurse made a mistake you don't have to go. But we did. How could we not? So despite the fact that my husband had a near death experience and had just been released from the hospital and I had a 5 year old that was nearing her bed time I drove my family through what turned out to be a surprise snow storm to see my Mom not knowing what the outcome would be. That hospital visit would be one of many to follow. And then weeks at the Kessler Institute where Mom made wonderful progress and was released with the hope of a continued success at home.

The following day I finally made my way back to the Drs. You see I had 37 stitches in my back that weekend. And at one point being stuck at home due to excessive icing in my driveway. My 5 year old daughter actually helped me change my bandages. She is an amazing little girl. Someday she will make an excellent Dr.

March and April were relatively calm. Bruce was OK and my Mom was improving with every visit. Come May of 2010 we finally managed to get Tamara Christened and we threw a party at the Golf Club being that it was also her Gotcha Day. Fun was had by all and my little girl was a perfect angel that day. Yay!

My last surgery for the season would be in June and then we took the summer off.. promising to return in the Fall. You see all these surgeries were from the waist up only.

In August we tried to get away.. a short trip to Hershey Park. The morning we were getting ready to check out I posted on Facebook not thinking. "Wow this mini vacation went fast. Meeting Tamara's new BFF for breakfast, a visit to the gardens and we're heading home. That was 8:30 am at 1 pm someone tripped our security alarm. After damaging 3 windows and two sliders they tripped the alarm and fled. Well so much for relaxing? As we made our way home we were receiving blow by blow reports about the swat team, the dogs running through our property. It was a very relaxing vacation don't you think? You really just can't make this stuff up!!!

September 2010 was just around the corner. Tamara was starting Kindergarten at the

BIG GIRL SCHOOL . So excited to go.. she was beaming with excitement. Yes my little girl loves school. After dropping her off I return home to Bruce complaining of chest pain. Are you kidding me? He took a nitro pill and we called the cardiologist he met that previous January during his near death experience. Again they did a direct admit and after a few days they transfered him to another hospital for a catheterization. What they found surprised us. 4 blockages. With Tamara and my good friend Sharon in tow we brought Bruce home that night after midnight. He wanted to explore his options as they told him he could do stents or bypass surgery. The following week we started a series of office visits.. 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th opinions. We had 5 Drs at one point and couldn't get any of them to agree on a procedure. The cardiologist wanted a quadruple bypass. The stent man felt he could fix it, The heart surgeon looked at us and said "Yeah.. I can fix it.. you'll make my #'s look great but why did they send you?" After numerous tests, consults, Drs disagreeing with each other we finally decided to do stents. Last week Bruce was once again admitted for an angioplasty and had two stents put in. An over night visit and I was able to bring him home. This time Tamara was in school and I went back to pick her and my friend Sharon up before going to visit Bruce. So far so good. He's doing well. Feels pretty good but he still has to be watched carefully as there are still two blockages that may need to be addressed in the not too distant future.

So that's what's been keeping me from updating my blog. Some of you who are my Facebook friends probably knew a good portion of this. Some didn't. As much as I appreciated the love and support from friends and family I found this past year to be very educational.

I found that many people who I fully expected to step forward ran, looked the other way. And then there are those whom I barely knew or didn't think to ask that stepped forward.

Perhaps the most disturbing to me was a friend who actually called my husband day after day in January in the hospital to tell him that he would take care of the 2 inches of snow that fell every day. "Tell Lee not to touch it" he'd say. Well he never came and I'll never forget the image of the EMT's carrying Mom on a stretcher up my driveway because they didn't dare attempt to pull in my icy driveway. And I'll never forget how my husband almost fell that first night home from the hospital. So I've learned. Some people seem to feel they need to be in the loop and offer empty sometimes destructive and dangerous promises. Some people offer to help but have no intention of being there when you actually need them. I've also learned that DNA is way over rated. My daughter proves that to me every day.

OK.. we're done... for now. So if you expected to hear from me and didn't. If you are missing a Christmas Card? A Birthday or Thank You note? I didn't forget. They're all sitting here in my office. Waiting.. waiting for the moment I share ALL this with you.

OK.. Lets get back to the fun stuff.

Back to Sept. 2009

Below Tamara in Ballet

Tamara, Dada and Mama go for a walk.

A visit to my parents house always brings Smiles.

After preschool Tamara dances.

Back in Ballet class .. actually this was Tap.

In the waiting room.

A walk with Dada and her Italian doll Anna which was named after her Nanny in Tbilisi. Anna the doll went to Tbilisi to meet Tamara.

No.. not the puddle..lol

1st Day of Preschool Sept 2009

With her Teacher Ms. Lisa

Preschool orientation day.

Enjoy the videos.

much more catching up to do.. ;o)

~~~

Labor Day Weekend. 2009

2010-11-17T18:35:00.000-08:00

Labor Day Weekend 2009 cont...

Labor Day Weekend is always a bit bitter sweet.

Bitter because it symbolizes the end of Summer. The end of sleepy mornings and lazy days.

Sweet because with the end of Summer starts Fall. A new school year. The promise of crisp clear days that somehow breath life back into us with it's excitement and first day jitters of a little school girl.

Below Tamara runs to her new Caddy.

So deep in thought and only 4 here

She loves her new ride.

Labor Day Weekend also brings friends by for a visit.

Below Tamara and Dominic get to know one another. Up to this point they had only met briefly at a fund raiser last November 08 for Packages of Hope the Georgia program.

Filomena Dominic's Mother is an Associate Program Director with me for the Georgia program. As not for profit we have managed to purchase much needed supplies for Tbilisi Baby House #1. And with your help have literally saved children's lives.

Please visit our web site. http://www.packagesofhope.org/georgia.html as we have so much more to do. You may recognize the photos they were taken by yours truly during our visit to the baby house in 2008.

Dominic and Tamara

Dominic is one month older and he too came from Tbilisi Baby House #1

In Tamara's room. Tamara checks out Filomena's camera.

Tamara hosts a tea party in her room for Dominic and his older sister Clara.

Downstairs the children keep busy playing with Tamara's Kitchen, doll-house and baby grand.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words but videos are so much more fun.

Enjoy!

~~~

Labor Day Weekend 2009 End of Summer Bash

2010-11-17T08:13:00.000-08:00

Labor Day 2009

We attended the annual End of Summer Bash at Carla and Dave's.

Tamara had an absolute blast as always.

Below she dances to one of the 5 live bands that preformed.

Tamara dancing with an my old friend Susan and her grand son.

Play ball.

Lots of great food and fun had by all.

Tamara eating fresh fruit. Still a favorite.

Keeping a watchful eye waiting for the fire works.

Tamara dances with Mommy

Enjoying the entertainment.

Playing with the other children.

Anyway.. this is an annual party our friends give for 200+ of their closest friends.

Lots of live music, food and fun. Every year there's a fund raiser that goes on. This year it was to help a starving artist who was recovering from heart surgery. They've also had years that supported Katrina victims and supported not for profits.

Pretty cool no?

Yes there's more.. hang on.

Back to August 2009

2010-08-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

Back to August 2009

Yup still catching up. When you look at these pictures please remember the end of August is listed before the beginning. So in this particular case you get to view the finished project before the action shots of how we got there. In other words the destination before the journey. ;o)

The last week in August we felt inspired to redo our master walk in closet. A 12 X 12 foot walk in. Still had the builders special cheapo racks. Unfortunately I never thought to shoot a before shot? Oh well...

The built ins...

Daddy's corner...

Part of Mommy's shoe collection.

Tamara helping... wackity wack. She loves hand tools.

An inside prospective.

Learning how to use a stud finder.

Sorting hardware for Daddy

Daddy.. shouldn't we read this first?

Cool... a play hut.

Playing on the ladder.

She so wanted to sit up here.

Mommy... I think I ruined my manicure?

Loves to paint.

Such a cutie with her pint size paint roller.

Painting with Daddy

Up.. Down... Up... Down... Wax on Wax off.. lol

Pool time.

Swim lesson from Daddy

State Fair 2009

Tamara stretches her legs by running around after her buddy Julia.

Mommy and Tamara visiting Wii world at the Fair with Gal pals Meredith and little Julia.

Is that where milk comes from?

Waiting on line with Daddy

Julia and Tamara

Hi Mom... Tamara waves as she goes by...

Julia and her Daddy Craig get in the action.

Ballet Camp week #2

We meet our dear soon to be good friends Julia and her Mom Meredith.

I love this picture. Julia (a year younger) is exactly the same size Tamara was when we got her June of 08

With the girls side by side you can really see how much Tamara has grown.

Amazing. Love them... feed them. They will grow.

Making a play date no doubt.

All dressed for another day at Ballet camp.

Ballet camp waiting room

She loves her piano.

Well that was August of 2009

Can't believe how quickly the year has passed.

Things really started to pick up around here in September.

I'll need to take a deep breath before I dive in. Stay tuned.

~~~

Back to July 09

2010-07-30T06:29:00.000-07:00

Back to July 09

Late July found Tamara sitting at a Baby Grand Piano.

When Mommy's friend offered their Baby Grand for Tamara I could hardly refuse.

What little girl wouldn't love her very own full size baby grand?

She couldn't wait for the movers to leave before she sat down to play.

Needed a little TLC but oh what fun.

And of course she sings..lol

And Dances

Visiting with my parents.. she always makes them smile.

Deedee answers her play mobile phone.

Back home waiting to go out.

Chalk drawing with Daddy. Notice how artistic Dad is ..

Too cute to watch.

Tamara started Ballet camp in July. The school director mentioned a balance issue. Mommy shot some video so Daddy could see and that afternoon we started to work on her balance at home.

Within one week the teacher noticed a real improvement in her balance. Yay!

Just a cute outfit on a little cutie. ;o)

Ballet Camp

She loved it immediately.

My little drama princess all dressed for another day at Ballet Camp

In July.. I figured I'd start planning for her Christening Party. Long overdue. We'll explain later but I needed some photos for props and invites.

So we got a mini pair of Victoria Secret feather angel wings and had a photo shoot.

As you can see she plays the part well.

Oh God

My little angel.. so sweet

She started to sing

And twirl

And she definitely knows where God is.

Flirting with heaven.

Trying to fly...

Back to Ballet camp

Trying to see a butterfly... my poor flowers..lol

View off the back deck

Playing

Little Buddy Joey comes over for a play date.

She's very good about letting Joey try out her new set of wheels.

Tamara takes her doll for a spin

She's actually a very good driver for a then 4 year old.

Zooom... yup she drives like Mommy!

First time in her car... she's beaming!

Really beaming.

Tamara's first real painting hangs in our Family room. Not to shabby for a 4 year old?

Tamara practices her ballet at home.

Playing in a kiddie pool. Our regular pool water was too chilly that day. Brrrr!

Helping with the dishes

Front porch all ready for the 4th.

Boating with my brother Zoran, Aunt Olga and cousins Nicky and Katie.

Treasures from the sea...

Nap time on the boat? Yeah right. Too many giggles.

She looks pretty yachtie don't you think? lol

Tamara and Nick take over. Nick pushes the buttons and Tamara steers.

Tamara goes for a dip.

Dada holds on tight.

Ouch.. don't try this barefooted. Ouch!

So there you go... July 09

First boat ride.. First ballet camp. First car. First painting. First full size baby grand piano.

How are we doing? Are you impressed that's two days in a row. ;o)

Hang on... lots more to come.

~~~

Back to June 2009

2010-07-29T21:48:00.000-07:00

Back to June 2009

I can hardly believe a year has gone by. I apologize for that. Well kind of. I've learned a lot over this past year. A lot about myself, my family, my friends, a lot about life, faith and the power of love. I've learned that I need to implement what I already know and follow the advice I would and have offered to others over the years.

I've come to realize that many people I know are what I would consider good time friends. Shocked? Yeah.. so was I.

I promised early on that this blog would not be sugar coated as many are. I promised that I would not only entertain but educate along the way. So hang tight.. there are many stories and life lessons on the way. Some will make you laugh and yes... I plan on making you cry as well.

I've procrastinated in updating this blog for many reasons. Just like any one of life's recipes there are many ingredients to consider.

But first we have some catching up to do. I've decided the best way to handle this is to forge ahead as quickly as time allows. Pictures.. pictures and many more pictures to upload.

I'll keep the descriptions brief but as accurate as my memory allows.

First and foremost I want you all to know that Tamara is fine. She is in fact wonderful.

OK.. you ready? Oh and this time around can you leave comments? It's really nice to get a little feedback once in a while. ;o)

This is June 09

Daddy.. shows Tamara how to ride her bike.

I'm very serious about Tamara wearing her helmet. It just amazes me how many people have tried to get her to ride bicycles, scooters and Rollerblades without one. Seriously are they crazy or just totally clueless. It just floors me that other parents have actually tried to challenge me on this rule.

Chatting with Baba on the phone.

Tamara enjoying her Play house.

Time to slide...

Love those silly little curls of hers.

Did I mention her shoes squeak?

Play ball...

A walk around the yard with Daddy.

The swings are a great place for chat with Daddy.

Sweet no?

Cousins Nicky and Katie's Piano, Guitar and singing recital.

Great Job Nick!

Katie sings ;o)

Tamara's Kitty cat Lilly.

Tamara and Bruce on Father's Day 09

Love this photo!!!

Thumbs Up!!!

Loves her play set.

These are in reverse order.

Below Tamara zones out after her Preschool moving up ceremony 09

A long exciting day for her. Especially being that Baba and Deedee came out to see her.

Baba brought her some flowers from her garden.

Tamara loves flowers just like her Mommy. ;o)

Out side her school. Her grandparents present her with her bouquet.

Tamara insisted on holding Baba's hand. Too cute.

FYI.. Mom's purse is an original Tamara of Boston Bag. A gift from her Grand daughter. ;o)

Michelle and Tamara. Michelle used to work for the school and served on the preschool committee with me for several years even before Tamara came home.

Tamara adores her maybe it has something to do with the play house Michelle gave her?

Thanks Michelle she still plays in it two years later. ;o)

My father shows Tamara some pictures in the preschool hall way.

Mrs Stevens, Mrs "Peachtree" as she liked to be called by the kids, Tamara and little buddy Megan pose after the ceremony.

Tamara shows Mommy her Preschool moving up diploma.

With her little friends

Loves her tea parties.

With cousins Amanda and Katie.

Another recital.

Katie poses with Tamara during intermission.

Relaxing with Mom.

Katie on stage.

Tamara sits on Baba's lap and sneaks Chocolate chip cookies out of her purse. Now why does Mom have cookies hidden in there?

The whole cast.

She loved the show.. even though it was rather long for a then 4 year old

she handled it very well.

My brother Zoran and his daughter Katie.

Olga playing stage Mom. lol

Baba and Katie.

One Sunday afternoon.. after a nice visit.

Tamara is escorted to our car by my parents.

Tamara sad that it's time to go home. She loves visiting her grand parents.

So that was June 09.. pretty much? She did attend a few kid parties that month as well but for some reason I shot more video then photos. I imagine I resorted to video as it's near impossible to capture a 4 year old at a kid party in a still photo.

In the interest of saving time I will be limiting the videos until we catch up as the download time is much longer then stills.

OK.. stay tuned.. we're on a roll.

~~~

June .. Here Comes Summer

2009-12-25T20:21:00.000-08:00

June.. Here comes Summer...

June brings warmer weather.. outdoor playdates.. and parties.

Below Uncle Zoran sits on his horse while chatting with Tamara.

Katie Birthday party.. The kids play.

Tamara had a blast with the giant beach balls.

Action shot.. Smile Katie..lol

So much fun.. Weeee......

Nicky.. want to trade?

Another beautiful day at the playground. It's the preschool picnic.. Tamara had a great time playing with her friends.

Weeeee......

Hi Mama

She loves to play..

More to come.. hang on..

~~~

Straightening Daddy's Hair

2009-12-22T22:12:00.000-08:00

Straightening Daddy's Hair

From day one I have always encouraged Bruce to take a fairly active role in his daughter's life. Encouraging bonding from that 1st day in Tbilisi. It was important to me that they thrive and not just survive should any thing ever happen to me. I also know from first hand experience that it will effect her life as an adult. It will effect her relationships throughout her life and it was important that I know she will make wise choices. Having a positive male role model is important. Pretty heavy stuff for a 4 year old huh?

Ok.. enough serious stuff I just wanted to bring this point up.. well you'll see what daddy is willing to put up with. ;o)

Hi Mama.. We're watering the driveway.

We'll need some water...

And some more water.

Hey.. whatcha doin?

Relaxing on the front porch in Mommy's lap.

So sweet!

A visit to my parents house.

Tea time

Tea with Deedee

With Baba

Some of you may remember this outfit from our trip to Tbilisi.

"See spots run" the day we spent at the passport office. She's wearing this sitting in the car in my lap. I mention this as some seem to be under the impression that she never wears the same thing twice? See she does.

Love those curls

Being cute with Deedee. My father just adores her. It's really sweet.

OK.. if there was ever a question as to if Tamara and her Dada have bonded..

well watch this.. and you tell me.

~~~

Mommy needed a Time Out

2009-12-22T21:41:00.000-08:00

Mommy needed a Time OUT.

Sorry for the delay. We'll try and catch up before the year is out.

I'll post a bunch of pictures with a brief description and then I'll explain why Mommy needed a Time Out!

Below Tamara's 1st preschool class trip happen to land on Mommy's Birthday.

Perfect .. I get to pretend I'm 4 again. What could be better?

Bruce took the day off to spend it with his girls.

Tamara and Zach hit the roller coaster. Weeeee

Tamara waves. She loves rides... think we may have a bit of a dare devil?

Even then she wanted nothing to do with the Jolly fat guy?

~~~

Oops I almost forgot

2009-07-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

Oops I almost forgot...

Happy Anniversary Bruce.

Yes 15 years ago Bruce and I dragged my family to Sturgeon Bay Wisconsin for our wedding and to meet his family.

In so many ways it seems like just yesterday that I planned our wedding. Flying back on forth several times to check on details. Emptying UPS trucks at his parents water front resort. I remember staying in one of the cottages and the entire length of the cottage was floor to ceiling boxes. Boxes that needed to be opened, checked, sorted and fluffed.

There were favors for each of the Bridal luncheons, dinners, a Wisconsin style Fish Boil, rehearsal dinner and of course the reception. 3 full days of events to keep us all busy. There were boxes and boxes of gift baskets that needed to be delivered to hotels, motels and B&B's before our guests arrived. There were center pieces, flowers, head pieces, bridal party gifts... the list just went on and on. I remember using 900 yards of tulle for decorating.

And I remember doing 99% of the work. I quit my job in April to be able to do this. Seems a little crazy now but back then it seemed to make sense?

So I stayed up late for pretty much 3 months. Making things.. wrapping.. making bow after bow.

I think that's what actually got me started on being able to stay up late.. which I'm doing now.

I remember it rained like crazy all week and cleared up for Fridays festivities. The weather was picture perfect Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Our 3 party days. Come Monday morning the skies opened up again and it continued to rain all week. We really lucked out with the weather that weekend.

Anyway... I sort of forgot about our anniversary this year. :o(

I actually remembered because our best man John and his wife Judy sent us an e-card today. When I got the email I thought.. Huh? Wonder why they sent a card?

Yeah it was a jaw dropping moment.

Bruce and I actually forgot about our 5th. We were busy helping Zoran and Olga with their wedding prep that year and after we got home we stood on our deck. Looking out towards the woods. Listening to the wildlife and I asked

"What's today's date?"

"The 2nd.. Why" he replied

"Ah...Happy Anniversary" I said and we both laughed

Our 10th we celebrated and now the 15th looks like it will be some what mellow.

That's OK... right Dear?

At least now I have an excuse. Can I use Tamara as an excuse? LOL

Happy Anniversary Bruce

It's been a fun 15 years and I look forward to the next ..hum? 50? With you and our beautiful daughter.

I love you both very much!

Below are a few pictures for your enjoyment.

A special Thanks to our bridal party.. especially John and Judy for reminding me this year..lol.

But seriously Thank You and I hope to get you all together again some day.. perhaps for our 25th? ;o)

Below

On my way to the church

Leaving the Land Mark resort with my parents and the girls. We were late the resort miss placed a case of champagne for the bridal parties limo ride.

Bruce and I after the ceremony in front of the church.

Zoran and Carlos wasted no time popping the corks.

Amanda and Jonathan.. so cute

Our bridal party

Left to right.. top to bottom

Mindy, Zoran, Christine, Wesley, Yvonne, Carlos, Jay, John, Me ;o) Bruce

Johnathon, Amanda, Joseph, Jennifer, Darren and Angie.

The Happy Couple

Our Team

We had a lot of laughs that day.

All the girls were wearing sneakers under their gowns for these photos as it did require a bit of climbing the cliffs at Cave Point.

At the reception

And they lived happily ever after.

~~~

OK.. We'll be back soon with more of what you really want to see. ;o)

~~~

Mama's Day.. Week

2009-06-22T22:39:00.000-07:00

Mama's Day.. Week

Mama's Day 2009 was really more like a week. My first ever Mother's Day and a few days later my Birthday. Yes.. I'm still 29 ;o)

I love.. love this week. Every year the weather is usually wonderful. It NEVER rains on my Birthday.. seriously. I've had friends marry on this day at my recommendation and have had several couples publicly toast me for it.

I also love this week as it's usually the week my garden comes to life. The scent of Lilac and Wisteria gently floats about with a gentle Spring breeze. The Peonies open and it's the week after our last frost so it's safe to plant. Yay!

Below the Wisteria drips off our back deck.

The Thursday before Mother's Day I was invited to a Mother's Day Tea at Preschool.

The children sang, gave their Mommies gifts and served refreshment.

Very touching.. very sweet.

Below.. Tamara and two of her little friends prepare to sing.

It amazes me every time they do one of these shows how much the children have changed.

Some.. are more outgoing and some get stage fright. Often times it's the child who's Mom brags before the show "My son / daughter has been practicing for weeks.. they know ALL the words" that clams up? They are cute and funny to watch. I thought I'd share a few clips.

Tamara enjoyed participating although she was tired that day.. just getting over a 24 hr bug and she did sing a little bitty bit.

We're getting there.

This was a song that they encouraged the kids to "get a little crazy" as her teacher put it.

Tamara made this cute little flower pot for me. Prettiest flower I ever got!

Friday

I had to run out during nap time to run some errands. This is what Daddy did with Tamara while I was gone.

They wrote Happy Mother's Day in the driveway with sidewalk chalk. A nice surprise when I got home.

Below Tamara then sweeps the driveway?

Hide your brooms.. this little Diva likes to clean?

Another view before Mommy gets home.

OK.. so I come home see my Mother's Day message look at my little girl who is now covered in blue, pink and green chalk. Although very appreciative.. it's time to clean my little girl up.
Below... Tamara shows off her artwork while Mommy does a photo shoot.

I'm sure anyone who's ever attempted to get their kid to sit still for a picture will appreciate this clip.

Weeee

As you can see.. the message was HUGE

Back in the house... Dancing with Daddy

Like this Dada. Tamara teaches Daddy

Breaks over.. "UP Dada"

A very sweet video.

Tamara & Dada being silly.

My little Angel being just that!

Saturday the 9th was cousin Katie's First Holy Communion.
Below.. Aunt Olga and Katie show Tamara their bunny.

IT was time to change Tamara. Her cousins... out already slipped out of their church clothes.

It was time to play.

I love this picture... Tamara and Katie head towards the play set.

It was a pretty warm day and yet Tamara still prefers to wear layers? I'm thinking it may have something to do with the bundling up they do at the baby houses. I recently found out from UNICEF that the baby house in Tbilisi didn't have ANY heat or running water for the first year and a half of Tamara's life. It's amazing what these little ones can endure.

One strong little girl.

Cousins Alan & Katie play with Tamara

Cousin Nicky pushes her swing.

Picture time.. Katie puts her Communion dress back on.

The girls .. together.. so cute!

Hugs

OK... we've had enough..

Katie so pretty.

Katie.. so sleepy...

And she's out!

Nicky and Tamara playing soccer. Tamara is getting pretty good at this and Nicky has been really great with Tamara. Kind and patient. Thank You Nicky!

Too Pooped to party... the girls take a tea break and watch a movie.

Congratulations Katie... loved your dress. The party was FUN!

Mama's Day!

My first Mother's Day was a nice calm day spent with "my daughter" and Hubby.

They took me out for dinner and the best gift by far was Tamara sitting in an adult restaurant like a perfect little lady. Winding her pasta with her spoon and fork. Fettuccine Alfredo and she ate the whole thing. No fussing at all she drank her milk and Mama her Merlot.

Could Mother's Day have ended on a better note?

Below Tamara enjoying the weather before we left.

She loves to garden and was happy to see this years annuals waiting.

Trying to count them.

She notices every detail.

Um...

Ready... Mama?

Up and down the steps she goes... no problem with balance here.

Gotcha!

Tamara and Mama.. Mama's Day 2009

So that was Mother's Day weekend. Fun.. busy and unforgettable.

More fun to follow.. stay tuned.

~~~

An Orphan's Prayer

2009-06-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

An Orphan's Prayer

[From "Small Blessings", an All God's Children International Publication]

I am waiting.... somewhere far...far...away on the other side of the world.

I may not know who you are or what you look like,

But some how deep in my heart I know you are out there.

That one day you will come and find me.

It's a long journey, and it takes a lot of time...I wish it could be easier.

But I know that the ones who come for me will not count the cost.

They will only see the joy of finding me.

For now I abide in the fields of the fatherless.

Day by day wondering why I was born here and not somewhere else?

Asking...why my life couldn't have been different?

It is so lonely...Even though I am surrounded by hundreds of other children,

I know that something is missing...

I know in my heart I need a place to call home.

My arms long to be saved by a mother's love...

Gazing out the orphanage window, I offer a prayer of hope,

"Oh God please help them come quickly."

Even as I lay in the darkness each night somehow I feel assured,

That no matter how lost I appear I am not alone.

Holy hands guard my steps; sacred fingers wipe my tears, touching my lonely heart.

The one who made me,

The God that knew me before I was born,

Hears me every time I call.

He whispers His promises in my ear.

I listen with hope to His voice.

But what I worry about most is that no one wants to look for me.

The fields are vast and there are so many scattered all over the earth.

I wonder how one little child, so lost, can be found?

Yet He calms my heart and assures me that HE will find you.

That HE will make sure that you hear His voice clearly.

He has promised me that HE will make a way through the fields,

That HE will personally cut a path, and lead you right to my orphanage door.

My prayer is..

When HE speaks...Please don't forget to listen...

When HE calls don't be too afraid to go

For I am waiting...somewhere, far...far...away

On the other side of the world

To come home.

I found this prayer today and decided to include it in Tamara's book as I read it several years ago when we were "thinking" about adopting.

It touched my heart then as I'm sure it will touch many hearts today.

Every night after giving Dada a big hug and kiss. After washing and brushing. After putting on baby lotion, changing into clean PJ's and having a book read to her.

Tamara says a prayer with Mommy.

Dear God..

Thank You for this lovely day and

God Bless Tamara, Mama and Dada

Dido and Baba

All my Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

My kitty cats Eci, Cami and Lilly.

All my friends and Teachers at preschool.

All my toys, dolls and stuffed animals

and ALL the children on planet earth.

Amen

Bruce always laughs as he can hear us on the baby monitor and if Tamara hesitates in saying Amen? I say... come on we have to seal the deal "Amen" And she does.

We then do "patty cake... patty cake.. bakers man. Bake me a cake as fast as you can. We roll it... roll it. Put it in the oven and GO TO SLEEP! We gently touch each others noses,

kiss and she's down for the count 95% of the time. Yay! ;o)

Georgians are very religious people. Their faith is extremely important to them. Our driver used to make the sign of the cross every time he drove past a church and believe me Tbilisi has a lot of churches. I remember the first few days we wondered if he did that because of the driving habit in country. lol.

Anyway the reason I mention this is Tamara always seemed to understand the concept of prayer and God. I'm pretty sure she had exposure to prayer. If not at the baby house.. she must have in the Foster Home.

~~~

Cheese and Mac

2009-06-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

Cheese and Mac

OK.. we're in May now. I rather busy month as you'll soon see.

This is week #1

Below Tamara plays her little violin.

She loves music

A kiss from Mommy

Helping with Dinner

Ice Cream Cone

Sunday.. Time for church.. Tamara waits to go.

Make sure the door's locked.

A warmish day and a walk with Mommy and Daddy.

Signs of Spring on the property.

Ok.. what is that fuzzy thing?

Skunk Cabbage is popping up... lovely?

A tiny brook

Tamara with her flower balloon

Mama.. Dada.. coming?

Cute... that thing lasted almost a month.

pretty flowers

Happy 75th George.

Another family party. Great food, ethnic music and a bunch of really nice fun loving people.

Time to party.. Tamara is excited and is soon dancing.

Here's George... Surprise!

The girls dancing

Twirl Katie Twirl

Tamara with Mommy , Dede and Baba

George cuts the cake .. Tamara loves this part.

So exciting...lol

Tea time

Tamara practicing her piano.

We're still trying to figure out exactly what it is she does.

Sun.. getting in her eyes. She asks for her shades.

Love the way a 4 year old's brain works... too cute.

Time to write

This is one of my absolute favorite videos. Perhaps only 2nd to the one where she moons me.. which of course is not being posted in Blog Land.

A must see.. you may want to mute the music. Right hand side bar.

Enjoy!

Cheese and Mac

OK.. so this is week one of May.

I recently found yet another company that could turn my blog into a hard cover book for Tamara as a keepsake. I tried a trial run last week and it came back "NO can do". They have a 1,000 picture limit and as of last week they claim I had 1,047. Wow!!! And I only post maybe 10% of the keepers. Anyway... sometime soon.. as soon as I catch up and wrap up the story you will see some changes on the blog. A lot of fluff will go away as well as videos. Unfortunately we can't put a video in a book format. I'm telling you this so when it happens you don't think your computer is acting up..;o) Got it? Good!

By the way if you'd like your presence to be known in the book.. it's time to post comments.

HINT... HINT!

This past weekend was also one year since we came home.

One year ago June 7th 2008 Tamara's little feet touched down on American soil and she became an instant US citizen. Yay!

~~~