Holiday Season

The tree is gone and the lights & ornaments are stashed away. Boy, the holiday passed just as quickly as it came.

We stayed at my parents house on Christmas Eve and had the traditional appetizer dinner. Around 7:00 AM Christmas morning Sydney scurried from bedroom to bedroom waking everyone. Then flew down the stairs with mommy on her heels trying to catch her initial reaction. Now days, I would say that has to be my favorite part of Christmas. She didn't fail to come up with a great reaction. "Holy The Smokes" she exclaimed "Nuts and Berries look at all those presents". Who knows where she learned those phrases but it was priceless none the less.

The kids are overwhelmed by all their new toys. Andrew finally has some "boy" toys to play with. I asked Sydney what her favorite gift was, she replied "all of them". How diplomatic of her! FYI Santa did follow through with the scooter and Genevieve doll she requested. Andrew is currently favoring the train table and pirate ship.

A Call From Santa

Matt called Sydney last night posing as Santa. She was timid at first but quickly got into the conversation. Santa asked what she wanted for Christmas; she replied with a Genevieve Doll, Scooter and a Hippopotamus (she loves that song "I want a Hippopotamus For Christmas"). With a big belly laugh Santa said he would see what he could do. Sydney mentioned seeing him at the mall, and reminded him she was sleeping at her grandma's house in Canton, Ohio so he should come there. After talking about what the reindeer like to eat, Santa had to go and wished her a Merry Christmas and she replied, and a Happy New Year?

First Gift of Christmas

Christmas is rapidly approaching and we are trying to finish up our shopping. Last Friday we celebrated with our playgroup friends. The kids had a gift exchange and Andrew received his very first Christmas present. As far as we know Andrew did not celebrate Christmas in Korea so we cherished this moment. He wasn't really sure what to do at first but Sydney was right there to help. It was a Little Tykes snowplow truck, thank you Wirick Family!

Officially Ours

Today was a big day for our family. Andrew's adoption was finalized, he was granted US Citizenship and got his name officially changed to Andrew David Min Lavelle!!!!! What a day!

Our appointed time was 1:30 PM, Nap Time! I was afraid Andrew was going to be either really crabby or sound asleep. But, to my surprise he pleasantly appeared, all dressed up in his tie in front of Magistrate Diana Stevenson of Summit County Probate Court. She verified our name spellings and date of births, then turned to Sydney to speak on behalf of our family. AHHHH! I had a feeling that was going to happen. She asked if Sydney liked being a big sister, did she she help mommy & daddy take care of him and if she wanted him to stay with us forever. Thank goodness she answered yes to all of the questions! Cuz, on the car ride there she told me she didn't want Andrew anymore because he hits. :) The magistrate then let us come behind the bench and Sydney got to stamp the offical court seal on Andrew's adoption papers. HOORAY!!! Andrew gave the magistrate five and blew her a kiss and we were done.

I saw this quiz online and found it very interesting. Its a portion of the US Citizen test. Andrew was too young to take it but I'm glad I didnt have to, because I failed. If your interested in trying your luck, here is the link.....

http://reference.aol.com/quizzes/citizenship

School Concert

Tonight was the Rivertree Preschool Christmas Concert. After last year's performance we wernt sure what we were going to see. I guess anything would be better than standing on stage with her hands down her pants again.

This year she marched out on the stage and to our delight she actually sang. And for icing on the cake, she did all the arm motions too! But, all good things must come to an end. At the end of the second song the girl in front of her had to go to the bathroom. Of course, when one goes they all have to go. Sydney and 6 other girls headed off to the bathroom for the remainder of the show.

Letter to Santa

Jackson Township has set up a mailbox for letters to the North Pole. So, Sydney and I sat down and wrote Santa a letter. Below is her dictation.......


Dear Santa,

My name is Sydney and I want you to come play with me. I’ve been good this year but, I did hit my brother, Mommy put me in time out.

I want you to send a pirate ship for my brother so he can sleep in it when he gets big.

I want a scooter, Barbie car, and Genevieve.


We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.



From,

Sydney Lavelle

First Visit With Santa

Andrew met Santa for the first time today. To my relief he had no fear. Although he was not able to tell Santa what he wanted for Christmas, Sydney happily told him she wanted a scooter. That was news to us, of the dozens of requests she had made that was the first time we heard about the scooter.

Disney Cruise Photo Slideshow

Thanks for your patience. Here is the photo slide show of our Disney Cruise. Make sure you turn up the volume on your computer first.

You may need to cut & paste this link....

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3025494879690857836&hl=en

Disney Cruise

WOW! What more can I say about the Disney Cruise Line. Working in the travel industry & this being my 10th cruise I had very high expectations, which they met and many ways exceeded.

As predicted the kids were totally surprised and thrilled. We woke them up around 5:00 am to leave for the airport so they were pretty groggy and didn't really question where we were going until we arrived in Orlando. Once we collected our baggage and headed for the Disney Cruise Line desk Sydney recognized the cruise line logo, looked at me and said "We're going on a Disney Cruise"!

As passengers boarded, the cruise staff introduced each family over the PA system. "The Disney Magic now welcomes aboard the Lavelle Family"!!!!! That was a nice warm welcome. The first night we dined in the Animator's Palate restaurant. The room is black and white and as the dinner progresses the room and character animations slowly gain color. Throughout the week we rotated between 3 dining rooms while our waiter and table mates remained the same. Compared to other cruise lines this was a nice change. Andrew & Sydney loved the buffet line especially for kids. Pizza, chicken nuggets and Mickey mac & cheese 24/7.

We are sending a shout out to Elena, Jose & Carla, our tablemates from Puerto Rico! Sydney & Carla became friends and had a great time digging in the sand together even though they didnt speak the same language.

One of our ports was Cozumel, Mexico where Sydney & I took the dolphin encounter excursion. We spent about 35 minutes in the water playing, kissing and dancing with a 9 year old bottle nose dolphin named Romulo. Sydney was very nervous & cried during most of our swim but finally warmed up to the sweet playful charm dolphins exude. She did give him a goodbye kiss and now says that was her favorite part of the trip.

Andrew had many favorites; riding the elevator, dancing with the characters, running on the track, flirting with the ladies,and saying "AAAARRRRRR" like a pirate to anyone within shouting distance.

The children's programs are much more extensive than others I have seen. DCL has dedicated an entire deck to children's programming; we had to force Sydney to come out of there. She enjoyed the pajama parties, character tea parties, story time, Mouseketeer training, dress up fun, water slide, beach digs, and pirate face painting, just to name a few. They also have a movie screen above the pool so everyone can enjoy all the classic Disney movies while swimming or having a snack.

Of course they had plenty of non Disney things for the adults too. Matt loved anything sports related. I enjoyed the dessert & cooking class, towel & napkins folding demonstration and reading a book on our balcony. AHHH!!! I wish I could go back.

This was the cleanest ship I have ever seen, at times their attention to sanitation was almost insane. As some of you know, cruise liners are sensitive to highly contagious gastrointestinal bug called Norwalk Virus. Not a pretty thing! And with a high ratio of children on board it can spread like wildfire. Therefor, Disney Cruise Line pulled out all the stops. The housekeeping staff kept the ship immaculate and crew members were stationed everywhere handing out antibacterial wipes. Every time we entered & exited the ship, kids club, restroom, and dining area someone was there. And, it works. As far as I know, no one fell ill on our sailing. :)

For the first time we enjoyed fireworks on board a cruise. After many years Disney obtained permission and became the first cruiseline to launch a small firework display during their Pirate Deck Party. Very cool!

We made two stops at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. Where Andrew got to experience the ocean & sand for the very first time. He was not thrilled! :) But we had a great time anyway. The characters even joined us in their beachwear. This was our last port and I wish I would have had my video camera out on deck when we cast off. The island's full time staff stood at attention as the ships horn blared a final "When You Wish Upon a Star". Saluted, then dawned their Mickey gloves and waved us goodbye. It brought a tear to my eye. I am a sucker for attention to detail!

As you can tell, we had a great time! I cannot say enough about the cruise & it's crew. As always we are putting together a photo slide show and hope to have it posted soon. Here are a few pics in the mean time.

Surprise SHHH!!!!

A great travel agent rate passed over my desk last week. It was an opportunity to cruise aboard the Disney Magic, and we couldn't pass it up. We leave on Saturday for 7 nights in the Caribbean sun. Seeing it already snowed several times here, we could use the sunshine. Best part is... the kids have no idea, we decided to surprise them. Sydney asks us on a daily basis to take her back to Disney World. She still has no concept of distance or money, but I love her passion & spirit. She has told me countless times that she doesn't want to live in Ohio anymore, she wants to live at Disney World.

Even though we will not be visiting DisneyWorld this trip I think she will be just as happy. Ever since she could walk & talk she has been pulling the Disney Cruise Line brochures off my office shelves, so she is well aware of what it is. I cannot wait to see her face when she realizes where we are going. We have been packing in a spare bedroom so hopefully we can make it to the airport before her questioning begins.

Please, if we see any of you in the next few days..... SHHHHHH!!!! Don't spoil the surprise!

Trick or Treat

Tonight we took the kids trick or treating at Great Grandma's nursing home. All the residents sat in their doorways passing out candy to all the little ghosts & goblins. In our case a lady bug & shark.

Andrew had a shakey start but once he figured out to put the candy in the bucket rather than hold it all in his hands he did much better. By the end of the night he was taking the candy they handed him, then quickly reaching in their basket and grabbing a few more.

Disco Bowling

We had a blast "Disco Bowling" with the kids this weekend.

Cavs Game

Matt got season tickets to the Cleveland Cavaliers again this year. To kick off the season he & Sydney participated in the Benchwarmer Program. Before the game they got to sit on the Cavs bench and watch all of the players warm up. They even lined up for the pre game introductions of the team and high five'd all the Cavs players. Sydney also got an autograph and a picture with Scott Williams, Cavs TV announcer and former player. Her favorite part though was getting to hug the Cavs mascot, Moondog. Go Cavs!!!

18 Month Visit

Andrew had his 18 month check up today. He is now 21 lbs and 31 inches. He was in good spirits until the nurses came in....poor guy had 4 shots today. It doesn't seem to be the shots he hates, it's being pinned down to the table. After they were all finished and I picked him up he immediately stopped crying and laid his head on my shoulder. That always warms your heart!

Walking For A Cure

This morning Angie, David, Sydney and I walked in the Strides for Life Breast Cancer Walk in honor of MOM!!! She is now a 5 year survivor.

The walk begins at the Football Hall of Fame and makes the turn around at the President Mc Kinley Memorial. It's quite a hike up to the top but, like many others, Mom took the express route down. WE LOVE YOU MOM!

Pumpkin Patch

Today we went to Walsh Farms with our playgroup friends. They had a hay maze, petting farm, hayride, and a corn box which is like a sand box but with corn. Andrew didnt care for it much but Sydney made corn angels in it.


Sydney went her usual "Great Pumpkin Hunt". She spent about an hour walking up and down the field looking for just the right one. All the finalists were separated until the perfect one was selected. Andrew on the other hand was quite content sitting in the wagon eating cookies. When ever there is a food option that's where you will find him. :)

Children Say The Darndest Things

Sydney was watching TV this afternoon when a commercial for KY Warming Massage Jelly came on. She stood there locked into every word. Afterwards she turns to me and says "Mommy, you should get that K Jelly, Daddy can rub it on you". :) I couldn't help but burst into laughter. Kids say the darndest things!

Get Your Horse

Like I mentioned in an earlier post, we are helping out with the "Evening at the Races" fundraising event. It is hosted by our adoption agency and the proceeds will benefit Andrew's orphanage in Korea. Horses are $35 each and give you the chance to win $70 if your horse comes up the winner.

Once you have named your horse, please send your name, the horses name, address, phone number to.....

FRIENDS OF ADOPTIVE FAMILIES, INC.
3111 Ravineview Circle, Stow, Oh 44224


Make checks payable: Friends of Adoptive Families

Go Buckeyes

Disney Video

Matt created a photo video of our trip to Disney. Make sure you turn up the volume on your computer, then use the link below to view or click the title of this page(Disney Video).

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6425557208274334731

Disney World

I can't say enough about Disney World. It really is the happiest place on earth. We spent 5 glorious nights at the Disney Pop Century Resort and the kids loved every minute. I wondered how Andrew would react to getting back on a plane but he had no problem. He loved saying hello & goodbye to every person he passed. When we arrived in Orlando the Disney staff was waiting with their Mickey gloves on. They called Sydney "Princess" and took her by the hand and led the way to our motor coach. While Andrew napped, Sydney road with her nose pressed to the glass watching for the highway signs to change from green to purple. For those of you who have been to Disney recently know, once you enter Disney property the street signs change color. When they did she jumped up and shouted "Daddy, were at Disneys Worlds", the other passengers chuckled at her delight.

After many unsuccessful attempts to watch the space shuttle launch my mom stopped by for a visit. I think she really enjoyed watching the look on her grandchildren faces as they met each character. Since this was Andrew's first visit he was a bit apprehensive when the characters came near but Sydney on the other hand is an old pro. She is a true believer and in her 4 year old mind, Cinderella lives in that castle and Ariel really does her hair with a dinglehopper. In true Disney fashion the princesses live up to that standard. They never break character even while holding a conversation with an adult.

When we asked Sydney what her favorite part of the week was she said visiting the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. This is a new spot on the Disney map. This salon is for little girls who want to be princesses. They each get their own fairy godmother who does their hair & makeup. Then they get dressed up in a princess costume complete with shoes & purse. Later that evening along with Matt's mom we had dinner with Cinderella, Prince Charming and the Fairy Godmother.

I think Andrew's favorite part was the bus. He would giggle with excitment as we boarded the Disney bus every morning & evening. He would wave and give five to everyone he could and by the end of each ride he had always made a friend. A close second to the bus would be the Lion King Show.
I will post more pictures soon, so keep watching.

Fishing Picnic

Today was the 2nd annual playgroup fishing picnic. Every month I get together with some of my sorority sisters and their kids for a playgroup. Then on Labor Day weekend we invite the dads and have a fishing picnic at my friends, Bob's cabin. The kids have a great time reeling in the blue gill and flinging seaweed at each other. I think Sydney's favorite thing is the worms.

First Day of School

Sydney started back to preschool today. She is attending RiverTree on Monday, Wednesday & Fridays from 9:00 am - 11:30 am. She missed her friends & teachers this summer and couldn't wait to start back. Unfortunatly, she didnt quite understand that Ms. Tawyna wouldn't be her teacher again this year. Matt went into the office late so he could stay home and make her Mickey pancakes and see her off on her first day.

When I returned to pick her up she was smiling and told me all about Ms. Jodi and being line leader. :) What a young lady she is turning out to be.

Andrew & Sydney Pics

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Matt & Sydney at the Alliance Carnation Queen pageant. Each year Matt escorts the ladies during the evening gown competition since Chase Bank is the title sponsor of the pageant. Sydney loves to watch, and thinks all the women look like princesses.

Andrew, 16 months old

Austin

Boy, it has been a busy week. In passing, our neighbor Sue, mentioned her son was so disappointed that he couldn't race in an upcoming Soap Box Derby race. Her father had been helping her son, Austin build a derby car but, unexpectedly passed away before it was completed. Now when this conversation took place, Sue had no idea we were involved with the derby. Since then my dad, Matt & I have tried to pick up where Austin's grandpa left off and complete his car so he could fulfill his grandpa's wish of having his grandson race in the Soap Box Derby. This past weekend we all gathered at the big hill and watched Austin race in the Akron Fall Rally.
Way to go Austin, your grandpa would be proud!

Click on this page title "Austin" to watch a video tribute Matt created.

Orphanage Fundraiser

Every year I try to give my time to a non profit organization like the All American Soap Box Derby, Ronald McDonald House, American Red Cross. This year I joined a new committee, Friends of Adoptive Families. A non-profit group created to raise money for the orphanages Family Adoption Consultants serves overseas. Essentially, our organization is made up of Northeast Ohio adoptive parents who want to give back to the orphanages who cared for their children. I couldn't think of a better way to say thank you to the men & women who cared for Andrew.

I would like to invite you all to become a part of our 10th annual Evening at the Races. This fundraising event will be held on Friday, October 13, 2006 at the Cleveland Metroplex Sports & Event Center.

Last year we hosted over 400 people and raised $23,500. These funds were used to purchase immunizations, diapers, formula, clothing for Andrew's orphanage and the three others served by FAC. $5,000.00 was put towards the Tomorrow Plan in China, this fund helps pay for surgeries needed by the orphans in that home. In the Philippines a $2000 donation paid for the salary of a child care worker at Concordia Children Services. For the Korea Social Services Home in Korea we purchased an $8,500 industrial gas dryer.

This year, we have a variety of projects that desperately need funds including the purchase of medical equipment, educational materials, playground equipment along with basic supplies like diapers and formula. A detailed list can be supplied upon request.

Tickets are $20 each and include a buffet dinner, and all the beer, wine and pop you can drink. We will be there betting on our favorites, so please join us at our table.

If Warrensville Heights is too far to drive. Maybe you or someone you know would like to donate a raffle prize, purchase an ad in our event program or just make a cash donation. We anticipate over 400 people in attendance at this years event, offering a splendid opportunity for public relations and advertisement. We will acknowledge the contribution in our program book distributed to each guest at the event.

Our program printing deadline is September 22, 2006 so we kindly ask that you respond before then to assure being included in the program.

All of us at Friends of Adoptive Families and Family Adoption Consultants genuinely thank you for your generosity and commitment to all the waiting children.


If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Dinner with Alex

We met the Henne Family at Hong Kong Buffet last night. I felt bad for the waitresses who had to clean up under our table. The kids left quite a mess!



Alex & Andrew riding the dragon outside the restaurant.

Centerfield Sydney

The tball season wrapped up last week. Much to her daddy's relief Sydney was actually a decent player. For a 4 year old of course.

Matt put together a video montage of Sydney's first season. Below is a link, if it doesn't work try to cut and paste it. Like Andrew's movie this also has sound so turn up the volume and enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPza34nnPag

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPza34nnPag

Hall of Fame Game

Matt & Sydney at the Football Hall of Fame Game last weekend.

Weekend in Cleveland

With most of our weekend plans taking place in Cleveland we decided to get a hotel room and make a mini vacation out of it. On Saturday, Matt played in the Hoop It Up Challenge. Its a 3 on 3 basketball tournament at the Muni Lot. His team faired well and qualified for the championships in Orlando, FL. Sydney & Grandpa Greg were there to cheer him on while Andrew & I attended a baby shower.

One of Andrew's friends from Korea, Patrick, came home to his forever family last week. Our friends Melissa & Kevin Hensel were pleasantly surprised to receive the travel call a few months early. It was great he could join us for the shower.

Saturday night Matt & I had a greatly needed adult night out, we had a lovely dinner at Morton's and went to see Cirque Du Soleil. Sydney & Andrew spent the evening at Chuck E Cheeses with Angie & David. Both were pretty sugared up by the time we returned. My favorite moment of the night was Sydney telling me all about David's house. "Its a big house with lots of doors & garages, he must have a lot of cars." David lives in a condo! :)

This morning Matt finished up his basketball games while the kids and I hung out at the hotel pool. Andrew loved it but, Sydney is still pretty apprehensive about pools. She still talks about falling in grandma's pool two years ago.

County Fair

We took the kids to the county fair today. I remember my grandpa & mom taking me when I was little. The pig barn was always my favorite. Sydney loves the horses. She has been trying to convince Matt & I that she could keep a horse in her room.

Andrew didn't seem to have a favorite. He rode peacefully in his stroller taking in all the sights.

All American Soap Box Derby

As usual our family volunteer project was the All American Soap Box Derby. This year Matt took the entire week off work to participate. They kept him busy working on a video slideshow to present to the major sponsor, Levi. Sydney helped organize champ gift bags and made a quick appearance on ESPN. Andrew gave all the officials their grandchild fix and made friends with the Japanese Team. I ran the 50/50 raffle but due to the rain we only brought in $1400.00. Boo!

Sydney & Andrew both loved Ducky Downs the derby mascot.

Sydney & Andrew Picture

First Words

How come kids never say mommy for their first word?? I know daddy is easier but still. :) Nevertheless, I am happy to say Andrew said his first English words. He now says daddy, bye and Bob. He also says moo for cows and cockadoodldoo but I'm not so sure those count.

I would say his transition has been a success. He definitely knows who his mom & dad are and has no problem letting us comfort him when he is upset. Which is a crucial step in the attachment process. Although, he is very clingy. I guess I would be too if everyone I knew was now gone. He holds onto us so we wont disappear too.

Along with TBall Sydney is taking art class this summer. She loves to paint & make crafts so this class was perfect for her. Last week they painted and this week they made faces with clay. I'm not sure where her artistic side came from, neither Matt or I are???

Home Opener

Sydney had her first real T-Ball game on last Wednesday. She got to bat two times and hit the ball on her first attempt each time, and she put all 30 pounds of herself into the swing. In the field we are pleased to say that she had the assist on the only out by either team. She fielded a slow groundball by the pitchers mound and threw a three hopper to the first baseman. Next stop the big leagues!!!

Family Reunion

My Grandma Lisic turned 90 years old this past week. Since it has been over 20 years since the entire family gathered in one place we decided this was the perfect time to have a family reunion. Family traveled to Ohio from Georgia, Florida, Missouri, and South Carolina. Grandma was overwhelmed but happy to have all her children with her to celebrate.

Spring Training

Yesterday, Sydney & Matt attended Jackson T-Ball Spring Training Day. She got to meet her fellow teammates and received her team shirt & hat. She looked adorable in her humongous jade green shirt with SYDNEY spelled across the back. After a team picture they completed 3 skill stations: batting, fielding, and baserunning. Apparently Sydney is a good hitter but loses interested in the field. Throughout the evening she asked Matt repeatedly to go play on the playground.

FAC Picnic

This weekend we attended the Family Adoption Consultants Summer Picnic. FAC places children from China, Guatemala, Philippines, and South Korea. It was neat to see all the children in one place. A crowd I could actually lose Andrew in. :) There was a fashion show of children wearing their native dress. Sydney kept busy at the art table & kickball game. While Andrew & I shopped at the international bazaar. I got a Korean Christmas ornament and when I payed for it they gave me Korean change.

Heather's New Job

As many of you know I have been volunteering for the American Red Cross Rape Crisis Center for the past few years. Through my supervisor I learned of a job opening in the emergency services department. I interviewed, completed the training and I am now working full time as the after hours emergency services caseworker. So what is that, you ask!

After the Red Cross office closes I am the on call caseworker who handles the emergency services calls. I direct advocates to local hospitals to handle sexual assault cases, send Red Cross teams to area fire & disasters, arrange transportation for dialysis patients, and process emergency casework for families of US Armed Forces personal.

So far, I am loving it and the best part is, I work from home. I can organize disaster teams in my pajamas!

And yes, I am still a travel agent. The travel business is my first love.

Geauga Lake

For Father's Day the whole family went to Geauga Lake along with Grandma Franny, Grandpa Greg & Grandma Liz. It was a beautiful day and not a lot of people.

Sydney couldn't get enough of the waterslides. But, she needs to grow another couple inches to take on the bigger, better slides. So when that time comes she will be the first in line.

Andrew was happy splashing in the shallows.

Pool Fun

Hong Kong Buffet

A new Chinese restaurant opened in the Belden area called Hong Kong Buffet, so we decided to check it out. My expectations were not real high since most Chinese buffets I have been to were not good. But this time we were pleasantly surprised. It was clean, food was good and the service was excellent. I am not sure if that is their typical service or if Andrew had something to do with it. The waitresses buzzed around our table, tickling, waving and giggling at Andrew. Of course, he just soaks it up. What a flirt!!! I am not sure who was more fascinated; the waitresses with Andrew or Andrew with the waitresses. The chef even came out to greet the kids.

Andrew had a great time sampling all the different foods. We found out he likes zucchini, potsickers, General Tsao chicken, fried rice, cantaloupe, lo mein, pepper steak, and fortune cookies.

Pictures