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

Summer Begins

Thankfully, summer is near and the weather is warming up. We have been biking the tow path, working in the yard and visited the Akron Zoo with the Henne Family.

Andrews walking is getting better daily. Which is helping his confidence too, he is not demanding us to hold him every moment.

His English comprehension is also growing. He now waves when we say bye bye, he claps when we say yeah. My favorite is no no, his bottom lip sticks out and he pouts.

Sydney has been busy learning the computer. She now logs onto NickJr.com and Disney.com and plays all her favorite games. It's amazing how much she can do at 4 years old.

First Steps

Today while visiting our friends, The Wirick's, Andrew took his first steps. Six to be exact. Hooray!

Our Ballerina

Last night was Sydney's first dance recital. For months we wondered if she would even take the stage but, to our amazement she actually walked on stage and danced. Hallelujah! She was the tiniest ballerina in the entire company but to us she looked like such a big girl up there.

One month

Andrew has been home for one month. Wow, how time flies by! We have all adjusted well and seem to have established a daily routine. Thankgoodness! We are still working on name recognition but we have taught him to clap and wave. Just today Sydney taught him how to blow a kiss. He giggles and smiles with delight when he masters a new trick, and so do we.

Sydney's last day of school is Thursday so if anyone wants to get together for a playdate just let us know!

Social Worker Visit

Kim, our social worker stopped by for a post placement visit yesterday. She is checking on Andrew and making sure he is adjusting well. Thankfully, he is feeling better so we are all getting sleep and getting back into a routine.

Our court date has also been scheduled. On December 11th Andrew's adoption will be finalized and he will officially become a US Citizen. How exciting!

Sick Days

It was a long Mother’s Day weekend. From Thursday to Saturday Andrew battled a fever. I figured his teething caused it but Saturday night his tempeture reached 102 degrees so I paged our doctor. He had me double up his medication and give both Tylenol and ibuprofin. On Sunday the fever broke but a mass of red elevated bumps appeared over his back & chest. I was able to get him an appointment this morning and he was diagnosed with Roseola.

Roseola is a viral illness in young children. It is typically marked by several days of high fever, followed by a distinctive rash that appears just as the fever breaks. Roseola is contagious but there is no known way to prevent it’s spread. Because the infection usually affects young children but rarely adults, it is thought that a bout of roseola in childhood may provide some lasting immunity to the illness. The average incubation period is about 9 to 10 days after exposure to the virus.

He said to continue treating him with the Tylenol and ibuprofin until the rash subsides.

Field of Dreams

Today was a big day for Matthew; Sydney registered for T-Ball!!!! Beginning in June she will be playing on the Jackson 4 and 5 year old t-ball team. I'm sure it will be hilarious. When I asked her what she is looking forward to doing she said hitting the ball real far and drinking water when I sweaty. My guess is she wont get sweaty sitting in the outfield picking grass.

JC Penney Pictures

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Our week

It has been a very busy week. On Monday Sydney & Andrew went to the doctor for their yearly check up's. Andrew was 19 pounds, Sydney was 29, he is quickly gaining on her.

On Tuesday we took the kids for pictures at JC Penney Portraits. I was skeptical since Sydney hasn't cooperated for the camera in months. Surprisingly, she was a ham and Andrew was the ornery one. First off, he is teething big time so we kept a bib on him right up till picture time. The moment we took it off he spit up all over his white shirt. AHHH!! Thankfully, the photographer worked around it but Andrew only let us get a few shots in before he was done posing.

We visited the Henne family on Wednesday. Angel & Brian live about 5 minutes away, their son Alex arrived from Korea the same week as Andrew. Alex & Andrew were born a few days apart and spent time in the KSS orphanage together. The boys played & ate Cheerios together. I am so glad they have each other.

Andrew's Gotcha Day Video

Matthew & I worked a lot of hours to create a photo slideshow of Andrew's journey home. You should be able to use the link below to watch it. Make sure you turn up the volume on your computer first. If for some reason the link does not work please let me know and I will try and email you directly.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkwgSH2OBc0