Sleep Cycle Issues

I am tired. I am bone-tired. And I imagine that The Boss is even more tired than I.

Li'l Empress is in a new and challenging stage. For the last two weeks, she hasn't slept later than 6:40 a.m. - even after being up till 10 p.m. last Friday night when we had "Wii and Popcorn Night" with the cousins.

Making matters even more challenging is the fact that her sleep cycle seems to be stuck at a certain point. That point being 12:30 a.m. Almost every night for several weeks now, she has been waking and crying at the same time, give or take a ten minute window. The Boss usually hears her before I do and together we hover between deep sleep and semi-consciousness, trying to decide if this is going to escalate to full-blown crying that requires parental comfort. Those nights that she whimpers and falls back to sleep quickly, The Boss is right on her heels back to Dreamland. I, however, take longer. In order to keep my brain from fast-forwarding to the coming day and its obligations, I have a litany of hymns and Psalms I recite to calm my spirit and set my mind to rest. It's a trick I learned in junior high school when I was stressing over upcoming tests and projects. I was always stressing over some school-related event or another, it seems.

On those nights that parental comfort is required to soothe her back to sleep, we are now at the stage that we can just go to her and comfort her without starting our night time routine all over from scratch. Believe me, that was a hard fought battle and I'm grateful for how far we've come. Also noteworthy is the fact that we no longer have to pick her up and rock her in our arms to soothe her back to sleep. Daddy can go in, roll her over and cover her up and just rub her back slowly till she drifts off. Again, there are a couple things to be grateful for here. First, that she allows Daddy to comfort her is another victory. She has become quite the "Momma's girl" as of late and often spurns Daddy's attentions or comfort in other parts of the day. Second, now that she doesn't require being held, I'm grateful my hubby is tall enough to lean over the side of the crib without having to open and close it, thus making the return to sleep a soundless venture. Plus, when I'm the one leaning over the side of the crib to soother her, I'm developing bruises and sores under my arms from the crib rails. Yes, I am that short. So, yes, I am grateful for this stage of comfort giving.

However, the hard part of it all is that the longer The Boss is in with Li'l Empress, the more time my mind has to engage and start reviewing the coming day's calendar and "To Do" lists. Slow and plodding hymns and Psalms recited over and over don't cut it after about 10 minutes of listening to see how The Boss is faring. He's in rubbing her back and shushing her. I'm in our room planning tomorrow's dinner and plotting a quick trip to the library between loads of laundry and nap times. I'm crafting blog posts. I'm writing bulletin announcements in my head. By the time he comes back to bed, I'm ready to jump up at 12:50 a.m. and pump out a grocery list and update my freezer inventory.

It's a sickness, I get that. It's also made my days very challenging and very long. My prayer life has been reduced to "Dear Lord, please help that child sleep just a little longer tonight to get over that 12:30 hump." Or, "Jesus, please shut off my brain. Now."

So you can imagine my dread of this weekend. The time change that all mothers of toddlers dread has now become this looming event. It is keeping me awake and stressing over how to handle it. I am proactively trying to wrap my brain around how to sneak some extra sleep into my weekend. I'm forecasting the week coming and trying to decide what to cancel and move around to accommodate changes in the nap and bedtime routine. I'm missing sleep over missing sleep.

It's a sickness. I know. And now I'm wondering, just who in this house has the sleep cycle issues that need to be fixed?!

Wordless Wednesday

The living room is starting to come together! All the patching, painting, and trimming out is done.


The curtains are up. We're working on a solution for tie-backs, as the original ones are too short.


We've even begun to hang pictures.


I still have to shop around for some thermal, room darkening blinds.

For more Wordless Wednesday fun,
click over to 5 Minutes For Mom!

Hard Day for Eagles Fans

It is a sad, ugly day for Eagles fans all over the country. The roar of frustration in the air over Philly is almost tangible. We are in mourning here at The Gang's house.

Late breaking news is that Brian Dawkins, quite possibly the heart and soul of the whole Eagles franchise, has signed a five-year deal with the Denver Broncos.

While we certainly wish this godly man the very best in his new career path, we are incredibly sad for our own loss. Not only is he a passionate player who leaves EVERYTHING on the field, he was very active in local charities and was a great role model of integrity and "family first" for thousands and thousands of fans. For my boys.

And the man can rock the tats. I'm just sayin' . . . .

Sunday afternoons of Eagles football and hanging with my gang just won't be the same.

I'm a Loyal Commenter!

Thanks to the gals over at 5 Minutes for Moms for their very kind and effusive words in today's featured "Say It Forward"(today's post). I am honored to be chosen as a Loyal Commenter; and I'm so happy to be included in the fun here at 5 Minutes for Moms. It's been a great experience to connect with so many moms and learn from many of them on such a broad array of topics. How exciting to be part of a community that seeks to honor the Father through equipping moms and encouraging them to use their skills and gifts in their marriages, their parenting, and their local communities!

This week, as my part in the "Say It Forward" fun, I want to publicly thank Heidi at God's Grace In Practice. I've had the pleasure of meeting her in person now, as we are both "CHOP Moms" - our little ones see the same ENT and audiologists. She's as sweet and kind in person as she always is in her comments to my posts. We share a deep faith in Jesus Christ and I have always appreciated her honesty and her thoughtful perspective, both in her comments and in her own blog.

Her blog is a great mix of practical parenting, frugal living, and journeying through the mazes of parenting a special needs child. In the months since her "Little Boy Blue" was born, she's also become an active voice in the world of parents who blog about their experiences with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. As a fellow mom to a special needs child, I have learned a lot about services, therapies, and advocating for a child. She's also posts some yummy recipes occasionally, and you all know how much I love new recipes! An added bonus for me is that her blog is just down right pretty. I love all the calming colors and patterns. Even though I just met her once in person, I see just how perfectly it matches her temperament.

Please, take a minute to click over to Heidi's blog and tell her that The Gang's Momma sent you. You'll like what you read there, I promise!

Major Milestone

Baby BlueEyes was completely excited to inform me this morning, as I stumbled out of my bedroom bleary-eyed and seriously under-caffeinated, that his room "totally weeks, Mommy."

Seems the salad and broccoli from last night's dinner worked its magic. Seems he spent most of the early morning hours warming himself in the noxious fumes of his favorite body function. Seems that needing the F@breeze treatment to refresh his room is an important milestone to his smelly little 7-year old self. Seems joining the ranks of his older brothers (excuse the totally intentional pun!) is a goal he's longed to achieve.

This morning, he gleefully achieved it.

Heaven help me.

Wordless Wednesday

Looking back . . .

September 25, 2008
Getting ready to shop in Guangzhou

February 25, 2009

Singing "Hallelujah" at breakfast

For more Wordless Wednesday fun,
head over to 5 Minutes for Moms!

Game Review

Recently, I won a Build-A-Bear game for the Wii gaming system. I was elated: the older boys had spent Christmas money stocking up on "boy games," replete with Lego light-saber violence and football madness. The little ones were easily frustrated by the complicated maneuvers that these games required. It made for some ugly debates about what to do on Family Nights.

From the moment that package arrived, we have been entranced! (At least, those of us who are easily amused by bright and shiny colors and adorable stuffed animals come-to-life have been entranced!) So far, everything I've experienced about this game is delightful. The music is light and cheery. The choice of animals is varied. The narrator's accent is lilting and lovely in its British tones. The directions are simple to understand and easy to execute. The plots of each little adventure are fun and the challenge of unlocking puzzle pieces hasn't lost its intrigue yet. I am the least gaming person you are ever likely to meet, here in the blogosphere or in person, yet I still found my game time fun and not too stressful or inane at all. Yes, I said inane. I, for the life of me, do not see how people can spend hours upon hours playing a game on a tv or monitor. I find it numbing. Except when I'm riding a pogo stick through the Build-A-Bear countryside, dodging shrubbery and jumping over roadblocks. Then it's all good. Really. It inspired not just a couple giggles from all of us to watch me ride. I mean, to watch my bear ride.

I haven't played the game yet in both modes, as my LadyBug really wanted me (I mean my bear!) to participate with her cute little bunny in the Adventure mode. But I've had the pleasure of watching my kids and my niece and nephew have a barrel of fun in the Playground mode. And I did get over to the "store" to deck myself, I mean my bear, out in a snazzy little outfit earned with my winnings in the wild dash on the pogo stick. I rocked that little number, I must say. I mean, my bear rocked her outfit. Sorry, got a little caught up in the excitement. I can't help it really, it's contagious every time the game is on. The music draws me in, the narrator lulls me to deep and easy breathing, and that pogo stick calls me. It calls me. I mean, it calls my bear. Yeah. My bear.

So, thank you to 5 Minutes for Giveaways for the great game package. We are loving the sweet innocence of the Build-A-Bear for Wii and the giggles it elicits are all music to my ears!

New Button on my Sidebar

You may have noticed a new button on my side bar. It looks like this:

Nursery Murals

There is a unique new opportunity for you to cheer the hearts and minds of medically or physically challenged kids in hospitals across the country. And you won't believe how simple this opportunity really is.

Please, take a moment to go here and learn a little about it. Then click on the button and follow the link to learn even more about this great company. Thanks!

Say It Forward

I had grand plans to schedule this post in advance, but I got derailed with a 24-hour bout of strep. I'm fine now, thanks to antibiotics the size of a horse hoof and plenty of rest on the couch while The Boss took over and played Mr. Mom last night. He even grocery shopped, bless his heart! And if my blog is seeming especially prolific this week, it's due to the "Winter Vacation, Interrupted" that I mentioned earlier this week. While The Boss was painting and Li'l Empress was happily engaged in yelling at the television screen while her brothers played Madden and Lego Star Wars, I snuck in several writing opportunities. This one got stuck in the draft pile. Better late than never, I always say!

"Say It Forward" is a blog carnival, hosted by 5 Minutes for Moms every Friday. The sole purpose is for bloggers to honor and thank their most loyal commenters. As much as I love encouraging and building up others around me, I am thrilled to participate in this event.

Today, I want to publicly thank my blogging friend, Aus from The Aus Side of Life! for the regular and entertaining comments he leaves here on my blog. Actually, Aus is another blogger whom I have not yet met in person. I think he found our blog while we were traveling in China, linking to us from another blog that I frequent. I believe some of my comments to this mutual "blogger friend" prompted him to check us out here at The Gang's All Here! I'm not sure, to this day, if my comments incensed or inspired him, but he shows up around here almost every time I post. His comments are encouraging, empathetic, and often very informative. I have thoroughly enjoyed our interactions, and his blog (written equally by he and his wife) is an interesting perspective on parenting and seeking God's will for their family.

One interesting thing that you need to know is that Aus and his wife have successfully raised three biological children to adulthood and are now raising two little girls whom they have recently adopted from China. Although I often feel as if we are "starting over" with a 7-year gap between our Baby BlueEyes and Li'l Empress, this couple REALLY has started over. At a time when most couples their age would be winding down the brunt of their daily parental duties, they heeded the call of God on their lives and opened their hearts and their home to their new daughters. Currently, they are seeking the Lord for His Will concerning yet another adoption! I highly encourage you to check out their story. It's a great read!

So, Aus (and Mrs. Aus), thanks for your regular commentary here on my blog. I'm so glad you hopped through the links to follow our journey. I have learned a lot from your parenting experiences and I really appreciate your encouragement and support along the way.

Slow Cooking Soup

Here's a recipe for a soup that I've been crafting for my Gang. It comes from a recipe in an old Giant Foods newsletter around the New Year, for Pork Roast With Cabbage. I've surfed their archives but have been unable to locate the original recipe. If it sounds tempting to you, please contact me and I'll share the original gladly.

On New Year's Day, The Boss always craves the somewhat regional traditional dish of Pork and Sauerkraut. He's really the only one who loves the dish, so when this new take on the old recipe came to my in-box I was really interested. The cabbage was fresh (as opposed to pickled) and served as an almost-Italian-flavored side dish. It did not disappoint. It was truly delish. Even The Boss's craving was satisfied (well, somewhat) with the offering on the table.

As I was eating, my culinary wheels started spinning.

"This would be an excellent base to a hearty beef soup!"
"Add a little of this, a lot more of this, and wow, this could be a great slow-cooker soup!"

And off I spun, into culinary creative bliss while my family chattered on around me.

Well, this Sunday night, I took out the massively-discounted stewing beef I had stashed in the freezer. I chopped and diced. I cried over my onions. And the house filled with the most amazing smells ever. Thank you, Giant Foods - you have sparked the creation of a new culinary masterpiece! (I know, I'm so humble, aren't I?!)

Beef and Cabbage Soup

1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 c. chopped sweet vidalia onion
2 cloves garlic, pressed
2 - 3 cans (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, unseasoned (to preference)
6 - 8 cans (14.5 oz.) beef broth, fat free and low sodium is best (to preference)
2 tsp. dried basil
2 tsp. dried oregano
2 tsp. dried parsley
1 very small head of green cabbage, coarsely chopped
(or 1/2 a medium head)
1 1/2 - 2 lbs. stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces

*I say "to preference" because it really depends
how hearty or how "broth-y"
you like your soup to be.

1. In a large sauce pan, heat olive oil on medium. Add onions & garlic and heat through till tender. Add tomatoes, broth, and spices slowly and heat through.
2. Pile in the chopped cabbage and stir well. Turn up heat to medium-high and allow to come to a gently boil. Immediately turn heat down to low and transfer to slow cooker when cool enough to handle.
3. Add stewing beef and turn slow cooker on to low. Allow soup to simmer in crock pot on low for at least 2-3 hours before serving. Be sure beef is cooked all the way through. This might take 4 hours if you choose to add the full two pounds of meat.
4. Serve with a coarse, dark rye or pumpernickel bread or a hearty Italian bread. Might even be yummy with "cheese on bread" - your favorite flavorful cheese melted on a hearty bread. Careful that the flavors don't overpower your soup, though.

I think the next time I make it, I may add some chopped carrots and maybe even some cut green beans for color. That's the wonderful thing about home-made soups: you can change them up for your family's tastes and it's really, really hard to mess up a good soup! Good luck and as always, let me know what you think if you make this one. I'm particularly interested in hearing what changes you make for your family!

Wordless Wednesday

Going Green
1st coat

Lovingly (and meticulously!)
painted by The Boss

*Edited after reviewing some of the comments: The less-than-loving look here on The Boss's face is due to the fact that I'm snapping a picture of him while working. I was in his space, after all. It is not a reflection of how he feels about this or any project we undertake! He, in fact, does love to paint and work on our home. It gives him such a sense of satisfaction and pride in ownership. Just so you all don't think he's being dragged into this re-do unwillingly!!

And there will be no fancy accent walls or faux finishes or other embellishments. We have two huge matching bookcases that are crackle painted with this green and a lovely off-white that will flank the huge window, and a patterned couch. That's enough eye-candy for me! I prefer the "less is more" approach to my decorating and we've already done the accent wall thing in the family room . . .

For more Wordless Wednesday fun,
head over to 5 Minutes for Moms!

Winter Vacation, Interrupted

This past weekend, we had a Friday/Monday combination of days off from school. We had planned to head to visit some old friends for a four-day winter break, but viruses interrupted those plans. So we hunkered down at home and made some alternate plans. The kids were deeply disappointed, however. No alternate plans could fix that. We allowed them to be frustrated and sad for a bit, but worked at redeeming the time with some other distractions.

So, Friday night we made a spontaneous taco dinner party. The kids and The Boss all took turns with the Wii and everyone went to bed way too late. Saturday, we treated the kids to a Valentine lunch at "Cheeburger Cheeburger." True to all the hype we'd heard from friends, their burgers were yummy and the shakes were amazing! Li'l Empress was quite moody for the first half hour we were there, but settled in nicely and enjoyed her diced turkey and the occasional french fry and squished grape. I wish I'd have thought to bring my camera - the delight in her eyes when I let her try my shake was truly a "Kod*k" moment. Her little eyes got big, her eyebrows shot up and she pronounced it amazing with a hearty, "MMMMMMMMMMM!" while trying to swallow and take in more all at the same time!

After a not-so quick stop at H*me Dep*t (nothing is fast with 5 kids in tow!) for paint and supplies, we came home and The Boss and the boys patched walls and moved furniture for the Living Room Re-Do. Since Li'l Empress had a seriously abbreviated nap in the car, we managed to get all the kids to their rooms and the little ones off to dreamland early after exchanging inexpensive little gifts The Boss and I had scored on a quick trip out during nap time on Friday.

The Boss and I celebrated Valentine's Day with a little finger foods feast I assembled and watched an episode of ER that I'd DVR'd a while back. It was too late to start a movie, and it's a good thing we didn't pay for one. The Boss fell asleep by 10:10 on the couch. I followed suit a good bit later and we both woke around 11:45 with stiff necks and cold feet.

Sunday was spent with more patching and sanding by the menfolk. The Boss and I have a system down pat now for home improvement projects. I do the design and decor planning. He does the physical labor. I do the baking and cooking of yummy meals and snacks that will keep his gas tank full and happy. I used to help with painting, but apparently I'm not quite meticulous enough for his standards. And, in true introvert form, he really likes to work alone in the space. He can even work for hours in said space with NO MUSIC. Whatever! So I whipped up a batch of chocolate chip cookies after lunch. After dinner, I chopped and diced and simmered a yummy soup for Monday.

The ceiling got prepped and painted on Monday. It's undoubtedly the worst part of any home improvement project, what with all the craning and stretching and straining. But it's already made a dramatic difference in the light and bright of the room. Enough of a difference that I'm wondering if the previous owners EVER painted the ceiling in the 30 years they lived here? I can't think about that too long, it's just gross to think that they never cleaned or refreshed the paint there. Ugh.

So, the first coat of green is up already and I'm chomping at the bit to dig out the boxes of prints, framed pictures of The Gang, and other decor I've had in storage for the past 4 years. I can't wait to take out my curtains and wash and iron them. I'm actually excited about shopping for thermal blinds for the huge window and picking curtain rods. And I'm currently hatching a plan to re-do the outdated brass lamps we've been using. I think I see some sandpaper and faux finish in their future! But shhhh, don't tell The Boss. That's another one of those "menfolk" projects that he has declared requires a meticulous touch. Which I apparently don't have. Humph!

No Hands But Ours

I'm so excited to tell you that The Gang's adoption story has been added to the list of family stories on the site, called No Hands But Ours. If you remember, several months ago I shared with you about the launching of this site. It's serving as a clearing house of sorts: sharing stories, resources, links and other helpful information to parents in the special needs adoption community. It's an honor to be included in this group of moms who are working so hard to change the lives of children all over the world. Some of the stories here will make you weep with the awesome power of love and Our Father's incredible attention to the details of each story. He is mighty to save and each of these stories proclaim that clearly!

To find our story, go to the "Family Stories" link. Because we were so recently added, we are right at the top for now. If our story doesn't pop up quickly, search on the left sidebar by clicking on "Microtia" and you should find us there. You can also search by blog name if you choose.

While you are there, won't you consider dropping an email to the gals who run the site and let them know what you think of this new venture? I'm sure they could use the encouragement of the Body of Christ!

A Quick Note

I'll be doing my "Say It Forward" soon. Just wanted to pop in and say:

Happy Valentine's Day to you all.

Trying to figure out how to keep yesterday's post about No Hands But Ours at the top for a few days. . . . Suggestions anyone?!

Feeling Crabby Today!

Li'l Empress woke us at 4:45 a.m., restless from the sounds of the howling winds. Baby BlueEyes came in and slept on the floor by my side of the bed at 5 a.m. Shaggy couldn't sleep so he got up early to take a shower. (I know, how WEIRD is that?!) Li'l Empress failed to ever fall back into deep sleep and spent the next few hours whimpering and occasionally crying out. As a result she and I have spent most of this morning crabby with each other and stumbling around the house with our eyes at half-mast.

Finally, at 11 a.m. I couldn't take it any more. I bundled her up and headed to the grocery store that borders my neighborhood. It was 1/2 hour venture, mostly just a chance to get out and interact with someone who wasn't whining at me OVER NOTHING IN PARTICULAR! Plus, we needed formula and salad for dinner tonight. Before I left, I called in an order to the Chinese restaurant in the same plaza as the grocery store. They have a wonderful lunch special with very generous portions and I needed some fried rice.

Apparently, so did Li'l Empress. She ate all the pineapple that came with my entree, more than 1/2 of the pork-fried rice (onions and all!); and she STILL managed to suck down more than 1/2 of her bottle. That's after eating 1/3 of a turkey and cheese breakfast omelet! I am happy to report that she is sleeping soundly in her crib, bundled up like a little caterpillar in its cocoon, with the humidifier up high to block the sounds of the 50 mph gusts outside her window. And with a little Diet Wild Cherry Pepsi in me, I'm feeling like myself again. A slightly caffeinated version of myself, but who's gonna complain about that today?!

And if those diversionary tactics weren't enough to thwart a Mommy-Daughter melt-down, this delightful snippet surely would have done the trick. (In case this link doesn't work, and it just might not!, you are looking for the Thursday, Feb. 12th posting called "Always Check Your Children's Homework.")

I'm just glad I swallowed the Diet Wild Cherry Pepsi before I read it. That would have really made me crabby :)

Wordless Wednesday

Looking back . . .

A few words, if you can indulge me for a second.

This week we celebrated Li'l Empress's 18 month birthday.
And in a few days, we will mark 5 months since we met
our sweet little dumpling for the first time.
I can't remember what our home or our hearts
were like before that day.

I'm a blessed woman.

For more Wordless Wednesday fun,
check out 5 Minutes for Moms and join in!

Scrumptious Casserole for You

Tonite's dinner is a big family favorite. The recipe was originally from my sister-in-law, over at My Little Nest, many years ago. We've tweaked it and altered it for our growing family and our preferences. I have mentioned it before but never actually shared the recipe. So, for those of you who are feeling a recipe rut, give this one a try and let me know what you think. I'm pretty confident that you'll love it as much as we do!

Chicken Chalupa Casserole
makes 1 9x13 casserole dish
or a deep 1 1/2 - 2 quart casserole

Ingredients:
1/4 c. diced onion
1/2 c. sour cream
3/4 c. milk
2 cans cream of chicken soup
8-10 flour tortillas, quartered
4 chicken breasts, browned and chunked into bite sized pieces
2 c. shredded cheddar, Monterey, or Mexican cheese blend

Optional add-ins:

• 1 can (15 oz.) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes, seasoned or plain
• 2 cans (4 oz.) diced chiles, drained
• 1 can (6 oz.) olives, drained and chopped
• 1 can (7 oz.) mushrooms, drained and chopped

Instructions:

1. In large bowl, mix together the onions, sour cream, milk, and soup. If adding in the optional ingredients, do that now, too.
2. Pour a small amount of this "sauce" into a lightly sprayed casserole dish. Just use enough to coat the pan and prevent sticking or burning.
3. Place 1/3 of the tortillas onto the sauce. Follow with a layer of 1/3 of the chicken, 1/3 of the sauce and 1/3 of the cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, and end the layers with cheese on the top.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, uncovered. Top with additional cheese if it needs it. Bake another 15 minutes uncovered, till bubbly.

This casserole is excellent with guacamole and salsa on the side. I've made it so many times that I had to really think through things to see if this recipe is still how I do it. With a few minor changes, it's really still how I do things. (I delete the sour cream in the sauce and use it as garnish instead. And I use the seasoned diced tomatoes with chiles and onions in them to save me as step.) Throw together a salad and toss some chips into a bowl and you have a scrumptious Mexican-style feast for your family!

Because You Asked For It!

Recently, a couple friends commented on Facebook that they'd like my oatmeal cookie recipe. It's a staple here for The Gang; and I make them sometimes several times a month. As creative as I often get with cooking (making up?!) main dishes, I almost never mess with a good cookie recipe when I find one. This is one of those times. The ONLY change we ever make to this recipe is to use cinnamon chips when we can find them, in place of chocolate chips. Enjoy this treat - from The Gang's house to yours!

Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
3/4 c. butter flavored shortening
1 1/4 c. packed brown sugar
1 egg
1/3 c. milk
2 tsp. vanilla
3 1/2 c. oats, uncooked
1 c. flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 c. chocolate chips (or raisins or cinnamon chips if you can find them!)
1 c. chopped walnuts (optional)

• Preheat your oven to 325.
• Cream together the shortening and sugar. Add eggs, milk and vanilla and beat all till creamy.
• Combine remaining dry ingredients (except chips) in a separate large bowl. Add dry ingredients slowly until all of it is just blended.
• Stir in chips by hand. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes.
• Makes about 2 1/2 dozen.

Say It Forward

5 Minutes for Moms is hosting another fun blog carnival every Friday. This time, it's so that bloggers can honor and thank their most loyal commenters. As much as I love encouraging and building up the moms around me, I am thrilled to participate in this event.

Today, I want to publicly thank my blogging friend, Stephanie over at Salzwedel Family Adventures for her regular comments and input here at The Gang's All Here! I've never actually met Stephanie in person, but I can always count on her for an encouraging or compassionately commiserating comment (whooo hoooo! check out THAT alliteration!) on my posts. Whether I'm bemoaning the 900th load of laundry for the week or pouring out my heart on these pages, she is consistently upbeat and consistently points us both back to the Word in her comments. Her blog is also a great read. Her journey to see God's will for their family is inspiring. You really ought to check her out. Thank you Stephanie for your encouraging words!

I'm so excited to join this Friday carnival of encouragement. Why don't you join the fun and see who deserves your kudos today?!

Wordless Wednesday

Sweet baby kisses

Exploding into giggles

Blowing raspberries

For more Wordless Wednesday
sweetness and fun
head over to 5 Minutes for Moms!

February is the New January

I am feeling the buzz of excitement and the roar of projects and "to-do" lists in my ears. My heart is pumping and the adrenaline is rushing through my veins. It's the first full week of February. Everyone is at school, at work, taking naps, and following our regularly scheduled programming. I can smell the opportunities for cleaning and organizing. My fingers are tingling with the anticipation of handling labels, bins and storage containers. My eyes are scanning corners and spying dust bunnies under couches. My shoulders are aching to heave and lift and purge the house of extra. No closet will be left un-touched. No shelf is sacred. Not even the bookshelves.

Be afraid. Be very afraid!

I have declared a fresh start. I am blissfully knee-deep in plans to take apart my house, one room at a time. With or without the help of the rest of the Gang. Corners will be attacked. Curtains will be laundered and pressed. Trim will be wiped down. Windows will be washed. It won't stop there. (I laugh out loud as I type that, because we all know, they will be helping. By hook or by crook. With the bribery of the Wii or special meals. Whatever it takes. And I do mean, whatever it takes! They KNOW they aren't safe when I make my declarations. Isn't that what weekends are for?!)

Paint swatches are stacked on the island counter. Furniture is pulled away from the walls in the living room. Splotches of spackle dot the walls. The Boss is catching the fever. Boxes of stored curtains and living room decor are being sorted, tallied, and mentally (and soon, oh so very soon, physically) inventoried. I am head long into ideas for re-vamping, re-purposing, and re-inventing the living room. With the momentum I gather, I plan to pull The Boss and the rest of the Gang into my pile of rolling stones and de-moss us all! From the living room re-do, I hope to roll the rolling stones right into the dining room.

February is the New January. I am woman. Hear me roar!

I'm Still Here

It's been a very busy week, including but certainly not limited to a second round of strep. Baby Blue Eyes did indeed have a sinus infection but late Tuesday night the doctor's office called back to say that the second lab test came back positive for strep. Poor Baby - I can never tell just how sick that kid is because he's just not a complainer.

In addition to the snow day, which was a barrel of fun and came to an end all too quickly, I've been busy re-arranging my daily routines to accommodate my return to volunteer work at our local church. I wrote my first bulletin last night, in 5 months. It was fun, and I'm a little scared at just how much fun I had formatting, writing, editing and putting my touch on it again. I mean, isn't that just a tad weird?! Seriously though, I do thoroughly enjoy serving my church family in this way and I love that I can pick it up again.

I'm still working on the logistics of getting to the church offices to print and fold it all. Currently, our church offices are on the second floor of a lovely old house-turned office building (which by the way, I could totally gut and restore to its former glory as a colonial stone farmhouse. Oh, the deep window sills! Oh, the exposed beams and rough cut stones! Oh My!). Lugging Li'l Empress, who is no longer so little, up and down those stairs with my arms full of diaper bags, snacks, and bulletins is a bit more than I can envision for my current Mom-abilities right now. Where oh where is Classic Mama and her Super Powers when I need her?! I think, for the time being, I'm going to have to wait till Shaggy and Dr. D are home from school on a Friday or head out on a Saturday morning when The Boss is here.

Right now, I'm off to a consultation with Li'l Empress's pediatrician. We need to get her on a plan for catching up and re-doing her immunizations as soon as possible. Unfortunately, after her first round of blood work came back in October, we learned that most of her original immunizations were not up to U.S. standards. This means a lot of extra shots. Additionally, much of her blood work needs to be repeated, some for further clarification and some for standard re-checks that CHOP always does for international adoptions. It also means plenty of tears, for baby and momma.

I'll be sure to post soon about the recent developments in Li'l Empress's growth and progress since I shared last time. We've also got some good plans laid out for treatment and interventions - CHOP has a great program for families of children with unilateral hearing loss. It's an awesome support network and they don't let ANYTHING slip through the cracks. What a blessing to have such support and resource at our finger tips!

Have a super weekend. We're excited to host an over-nighter with my niece and nephew while the big kids go on a weekend retreat with the youth group. I call it an "over-nighter" because calling it a "sleep-over" seems so silly. I'm fairly certain there won't be a ton of real sleeping for any of the little cousins!

Wordless Wednesday

We woke up to 3 " of this.

A little frosting.

Snow Day!!!

For more Wordless Wednesday fun,
head over to 5 Minutes for Moms.
While you are there, check out
their give-away of
Fireproof, the movie that is
changing marriages and inspiring hope!

My Challenge Continues

Well, it's been a crazy couple weeks since I posted about "Challenging Myself." I almost could have predicted it, but as soon as I posted my lofty hopes for regaining a sense of routine and re-structuring my days to improve my physical health things took a nose-dive around here! Today, I'm happy to report that all big and little gang members are on the mend. Baby BlueEyes has a check up in an hour or so because I'm finally getting around to admitting that his lingering cold and cough is likely a sinus infection. But he's in great spirits and I'm actually typing and posting this in live time while he plays with Li'l Empress. Miracle of miracles, I have free hands at 11:30 in the morning!!!!

So, here's the update on my challenge:

• The first week of journaling just. Did. NOT. happen. The second week was much better. The biggest trouble I have is creating great meals and then trying to figure out how they stack up with nutritional values. I'm thinking of having The Boss give me a crash course in the counting and journaling he does to manage his diabetes. That would have the added benefit of both of us working the same "program." I have to think on this one, though. In the meantime, I'll be pulling out my stash of W*$ght W@tch*rs recipes and formulating a menu and shopping list from those.
  
• I am being very successful to limiting myself to one mug of coffee with creamer each day. (Please don't remind me just how big those mugs are!) I'm finding on a daily basis that I rarely finish that one mug before lunch. I'm trying to train myself to choose my smaller mugs AND choose water when I'm feeling thirsty. I must admit, the water portion of the challenge has been going dismally. I hate drinking water in this cold weather, and I'm not a big fan of tea as of late. I must improve this area - my skin is feeling the pinch.
• Heading to bed around 10 p.m. has been much easier to conquer than I'd imagined. No doubt it's because The Boss and I finally agreed to try a DVR package with our local cable provider. He called and wrangled a great introductory deal and we finally gave our fizzled, frazzled VCR the heave-ho. Now we can enjoy shows when we are ready, skip commercials, and save our faves for quiet nights when everyone is tucked in. The other night, I was actually in bed at 9:40!!!!!
  

So, this week, here's my goals:

1. Continue to journal, measure, and mind all I eat and drink.
2. Increase the water intake. Period. I just have to do it.
3. Continue to head to bed by 10.
4. Increase my fruits and vegetables daily. It's embarrassing how few of them I eat this time of year!
   

In order to accomplish these, I am brainstorming some other changes to our daily and weekly routines. That's a whole 'nother post, brewing as I type. Additionally, I'm beginning to look around for some exercise options that will allow me to enjoy working out AND not have to spend a ton of time or money. I'm like Natalie in my quest for variety. Except, if I can't have variety, I settle happily for community which is why I loved Curves. The budget constraints of that option are forcing me to be creative. Also another post entirely!

So, how are you doing? What challenges are you offering yourself this week?

Wordless Wednesday

Yesterday was a two piggie day.

For more Wordless Wednesday fun,
head over to 5 minutes for Moms.

And no, she's not grumpy or mad at me here. In fact, considering that yesterday was the first day in a long string of days with no siblings, no Daddy and JUST Mommy to play with, she was remarkably happy and even-keeled. She just doesn't like sitting still and is contemplating her escape!

Something Yummy for Your Tummy

Over the Christmas holiday, my sister-in-law made this yummy soup for our family gathering. It's incredibly easy, fairly economically frugal and super versatile. Give it a try and let me know what you think. And while you are at it, head over to her blog and thank her for sharing the wealth!

Mexican Chicken Soup

1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

2 Tbsp. olive oil

½ c. water

1 envelope taco seasoning (or see bottom for taco seas. recipe)

1 can (32 oz) v8 juice

1 jar (16 oz) salsa

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 pkg. (10 oz) frozen corn, thawed

1 large can of seasoned diced tomatoes

Suggestions for toppings:

Cheddar Cheese

Sour Cream

Cilantro, chopped

Corn chips or nachos in pieces

• Lightly brown chicken in oil. When outside is browned, add water and taco seasoning.
• Simmer until chicken is well coated and cooked through. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
• Transfer chicken and seasoned water to a slow cooker. Add the rest of the ingredients (except toppings).
• Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through. Serve with toppings.

From the Mouths Of Babes

We interrupt The Gang's period of grieving and mourning (over the terrible loss of the NFC Championship game to the little red birds) to give you this message.

Straight from Baby BlueEyes' mouth to you:

"Happy Mahthin Lutin King, Juunyah Day!"

We now resume our regularly scheduled morning of sobbing and wailing and "if only-ing. . . . "

Someone Thinks I'm Fabulous

(Hang in there, this is a bit long-ish. You'll forgive me, tho, when you see the gifts I've given you in the following post . . . )

Other than Baby BlueEyes, who regularly grosses out his brothers by telling me how beautiful and wonderful I am, I don't hear a lot of "Wow, you're fabulous!" The big brothers call what BBE does "sucking up." I call it brutal honesty and unabashed adoration. And I like it that way. I mean, come on. Someone around here has to say it like it is! (said cheekily)

I was happily surprised this morning when I sat down to catch up on my blog-reading. I've been occupied with all manner of germs, viruses, and bacteria, and the de-contaminating and disinfecting of such things for the past week. Blog reading, while a beloved past time, took a distant second or third to restoring order and obsessive-compulsive cleanliness and routine to my home. Yeah, I have issues. We've covered that already, I believe.

So, back to the surprise. My bloggy friend over at Salzwedel Family Adventures granted me this nifty award. It was a pleasant little boost to my morning. Which, coincidentally is already almost perfect: we're all still in our jammies, in one room, and peace and contentment reigns. There's not a tissue in sight, dirty or otherwise. Sigh.

I'm passing on this award to several that I read frequently. I have one more particularly in mind, but since it's a private blog, I shall respect that. Just know that it is my top pick for this lovely recognition.

Five Fabulous Blogs You Should Read:

1. Created and Called - this blog is a collaborative effort of several gals who keep it real, and keep their sense of humor while they do it. Always interesting, almost always informative (even if it's completely useless and trivial information that just tickles my fancy), it also helps me stay connected to a great group of gals with whom I have "grown up" into the fabulous Mommy and blogger I am today. (again, said cheekily!)
2. Mississippi Zen - I "met" this Southern adoptive-mom friend through a special needs forum I joined last year during our journey to Li'l Empress. She is creative, buoyant of spirit, and a faithful prayer warrior who advocated VIGOROUSLY for adoption. I linked to this particular post because it's one of the biggest things I love about her blog. And even if you are not even remotely interested in international adoption, you must go by and see her photography. OH MY GOODNESS. Her skills, her subjects, and her perspective amaze me.
3. The Harrells - the first adoption blog that I ever read was the one captured me immediately. Elissa alternates with ease between hilarious self-deprecating humor and lovely, heartfelt adoration for the little miracle known as Lily. I particularly love her political blurts that get regularly injected into her conversations about her every day life. Yes, she just blurts them out. And while I laugh all the way through them, I also agree most of the time with her summaries! An added bonus? Her brother works on the road crew for Blake Shelton. Yes, I've mentioned it before. Yes, I'm obsessed with the idea of it. And yes, he's worthy of one of my celebrity crushes. Which, incidentally might be making a return to my musings soon. I'm just sayin' . . . .
4. Callapidder Days - I can't remember how or where I found this little nugget, but I really must insist that you head over there now. Chock full of great book reviews, thoughtful insights on parenting toddlers and pre-schoolers, and honest evaluation of her journey of faith, Katrina has the added plus of being a really gifted writer. Her style is stream-lined, yet conversational. Intelligent but accessible. Honest but hopeful. I haven't been there in while, what with all the changing and adjusting and cleaning and disinfecting I've been caught up in for the last, oh 4 months!, but I love settling in with a mug of coffee and reading a bunch of her posts at once. It's a little treat to me, those piles of posts that I hoard in my reader and save for a cozy morning.
5. Little Cabin In The Woods - the link for this blog was sent to me by my sister-in-law, primarily because she found it interesting that they homeschool AND they have adopted three gorgeous girls from China. I go back, again and again, (even when she hasn't updated recently) if for no other reason than her amazing photography. Yes, her daughters are gorgeous. Yes, her simple, pared-down lifestyle is immensely appealing. Yes, her steadfast and pure faith is challenging and inspiring. But her photography? I swear, I could cover the walls of my home with the amazing landscapes and breathtaking portraits. I have the added benefit of getting to "know" her via email and have so appreciated the support and resource she has been in our journey to Li'l Empress. You really want help with packing lists from a woman who has been to China and back three times!

So, before you head over to peruse these little gifts I've bestowed today, the second half of this fabulousness award is to share with you some of my addictions. Truth be told, I'm sure in my obsessive-compulsive bent I have more than five, but I'll limit myself for your sake. I'm sure your bum is getting numb by now. (Hee hee, I made a funny. And it rhymed!)

Five Things To Which I Am Addicted:

1. I am completely committed to averting dangling participles whenever I possibly can. I have been known to labor over a sentence, here and in other writing venues, for ridiculously long periods of time, while crafting the perfect way to avoid "which's" and "of's" dangling precariously in space.
   
2. I love coffee. Strong, rich dark coffee, perfectly flavored with Nestle's Sugar Free Hazelnut Creamer. 'Nuff said. You have all suffered enough with my rantings and ravings on this topic.
3. I must hear my children's laughter at least once a day. Or the day seems dreary, dark and dull. Multiple times a day, and the world is sunny and bright once more.
   
4. Good, meaningful, conversation. I recognize that those adjectives are in the eyes of the beholder, so to speak. But I don't enjoy small talk for long. I prefer diving in, rooting out emotion and thought, and wallowing in it. It exhausts The Boss, I'm sure, this little addiction of mine.
5. Country Music. Please, no judgment. This is my blog, my addiction. I love me some Keith Urban or Little Big Town at full volume, cruisin' down the road in my big ole mini-van. Give me some Tim McGraw or Dierks Bentley in the background and watch me go. I'll stop now. I will spare you. That is another of my gifts to you. ** Edited - I don't know what came over me. I originally typed Dierks Benedict. "What Was I THINKIN'?!" Thanks, sis! :) :) :)
   

Okay, you are free. Go now. Explore the blogs I've listed here. You're welcome. It was my pleasure.

Here's the Run Down

It hasn't been pretty here. I can almost see the germs and bacteria ducking and hiding behind every piece of furniture and peeking out to taunt me from between the cushions on the couches. It's only mid-January. Here's what The Gang has been tackling since New Year's holiday, by the numbers:

• two cases of strep
• two old-fashioned flu bugs
• one run to the ER
• one case of constipation
• one case of lower back strain
• one lingering nasty cold
• one sinus infection
• one stomach "something"
  

That doesn't include Baby BlueEyes' case of strep before Christmas OR the return of some of Li'l Empress's sleep-thru-the-night issues since the kids started school again.

I'm back on my feet today, treading lightly and gingerly (I had the stomach "something") and feeling the need to disinfect everything in sight. It'll take herculean effort not to start today, but given that my arms and legs feel like wet noodles, I'll settle for washing my hands and my counters obssessively instead. The two older boys are home one more day, as the flu followed by strep really wiped out their energy levels. By the weekend, my hope is that we all are back on our feet and well on our way to a cleaner, more germ-free house. If the temps break 35 anytime soon, I might even open a bunch of windows for a few minutes. It feels like a sick bay around here.

So, pray for The Gang, will ya? I have a mountain of mail and email and phone calls to return. I have appointments to reschedule and school catch up to oversee. And now? Well, I'm heading back to the couch. I just exhausted myself again.

Challenging Myself

Last week, my very brave and very honest friend, Natalie, announced a weight loss challenge on her blog. You can read the details of the path she's setting out for herself and the challenge she's inviting us to join in, here. Each Monday, there's a new installment of the challenge to join.

This challenge comes at a great time for me. I've been itchy to get back into a regular routine of life again, even if our new normal looks really different than previous "normal" looked. I have also been sensing how closely my physical health is tied to my emotional and spiritual health. Now that I've hit the big 4-oh, I have had to be brutally honest with myself in many areas.

I've not shared this before, at least not in this forum, but for the last several years I have struggled with depression. At first, I put it off to the "winter blues" but in my desire to be brutally honest coming into 2008, I finally admitted to myself that it was worse than that. Sticking to routine, maintaining my weight (or even trying to lose some sensibly), setting an up-lifting tone in our home through prayer and worship, and regular exercise have all been invaluable tools to help me manage the symptoms fairly well. Also helpful have been the relationships of a couple real friends who have been consistent, concerned and honest with me. I am not so haughty or deceived to believe that now that our adoption is complete and my life is ever-so-much busier and full of toddler activity, I won't still struggle this year. In fact, with all the sickness and stuff that's been floating around here, I have found myself sinking and floundering these past ten days. So, this challenge is a great opportunity for me to take up the things that I know I can do to improve my own health and maybe lose some weight in the process.

I have been vacillating all week about my commitment and my participation in Natalie's blog challenge. On the one hand, I know I've let a lot of my healthy habits fly right out the window in 2008. Not JUST during this transition with Li'l Empress, but certainly all this change in the recent 4+ months has been taking its toll. My weight since leaving Curves in August reflects that. On the other hand I have also been trying to set some reasonable goals and not commit myself to something I could not stick with for a long term. Exercising consistently is not a huge interest of mine right now, but getting some handles on what I'm eating and when I'm eating it feels manageable to me.

So, I'm joining the challenge today. I am committing to the following three things:

1. I will diligently track all my food choices, journaling everything I eat, W*ight W*tchers-style. I am even going as far as to follow my recommended points for my age, height and weight. None of which I will be sharing publicly. (Sorry, Nat, I'm not nearly as brave as you yet!)
2. I will limit my coffee intake (still with my delicious Nestle's Sugar Free Hazelnut Creamer) to one Tigger mug each morning. Additionally, I will limit my Diet Pepsi intake, though I don't currently indulge every day. I will increase my water intake. Not willing to attach a number to that yet.
3. I am making an effort to head to bed by 10 p.m. 4 out of 7 nights of the week. Fridays don't count and I need the freedom to flex a couple nights, based on our family calendar. An added bonus: those middle-of-the-night soothing sessions with Li'l Empress won't take such a toll on my body if I'm resting more before AND after rocking my brains out in the nursery down the hall!

I think these are reasonable places to start. For me, anyway. I have to admit, I really miss my work-outs at my local C*rves. They agreed to give me a "maternity leave" from Sept. 1- Jan. 1 but in the meantime, the gym had to close its doors. Coming up with the money to join elsewhere and committing to finding child care for Li'l Empress has been a huge deterrent to exercising outside of the house. I think, for the next phase of the challenge, I may be willing to look at a commitment to regularly utilize the two or three work-out dvd's I have from my W*ight W*tcher days. Believe me, if I could afford to go back to WW, I would commit to that too.

So, there it is. I'm also committing to show up Monday with a report of my progress. My hope is that the progress shows itself in numbers falling off the scale, but I am also choosing NOW to be grateful for improved eating, drinking, and sleeping habits. Think you're up for a challenge? Head over to Natalie's post from today, and join up. Working on positive changes together will be fun!

Happy Day for the Gang!

In the midst of a weekend full of fevers, ER runs (Don't worry, it's not appendicitis. Apparently, it's constipation. Don't ask!), fizzled snow storms, and de-Christmas-ing the house, the Gang had a happy afternoon. Our Eagles are going to the NFC Championships. No dumb luck about it. Not a ton of long passing and outstanding runs, but a good game fought down to the nitty gritty.

And in the middle of it all, our newest Eagles fan joined in the fun. After a long, cozy nap, of course!

And so now it's on to Arizona. Where no doubt, warmer hands will be able to handle the ball with more finesse. And maybe Westbrook can break free for a long-awaited, glorious, in-your-face touchdown run. If we're really lucky, maybe my beloved "Dawk" will get an interception too!

Fly - Eagles - Fly!

Yine Near Old Nonsense

It occurred to me the other day that I don't really blog much about LadyBug. I mean, enough for you to really get to know the treasure that she is to The Gang. I think it's because she's a fairly quiet kid and is full-blown into the "DON'T embarrass me, Mo-om" stage.

Which, coincidentally, just makes me want to plot all manner of bizarre and humiliating behaviors for walking through our local K*hl's together. I know, I have issues.

Aaaaaanyway, my issues aside, LadyBug may be quiet and may prefer to blend into the crowd when she's out of the house. But seriously? When this girl is here in the comfort and safety of her own home? She's a riot. She's spunky, sassy, and snappy. She breaks into crazy singing and dancing fits when someone says something that reminds her of a song she loves. She drives her brothers crazy by singing karaoke-style in this really, high-pitched nasal voice with great dramatic flair. She sings lyrics to songs that don't even exist. I mean, the song exists, but the lyrics she's singing? I have NO idea. But she has one particularly endearing trait that keeps us in stitches.

She mixes up her words.

Some of her funny little verbal twists aren't fit for print on this G-rated blog (and of course, those are her brothers' favorites that they repeat over and over with junior high boy glee and giggles). But I've been taking notes the past few weeks, jotting down some of the funny little things that come out of my LadyBug's mouth. They all have a context, but here are the punch lines. I think they are cute enough to stand on their own . . .

"He can't do that. His nail fingers are too long . . . "

". . . there's a bittle lit of laundry left . . ."

When reading a new word for the first time, sounding it out slowly: "stupp - i - did- i - tee"
And please, don't ask why she was reading a primary level book with the word "stupidity" in it. I think it might have been a J*nie B. J&nes book. 'Nuff said, eh?!

When describing a gentleman she saw at the mall the other day: " . . . and this one gall was really tigh."

But last night. Oh, last night.

Last night's verbal twist was perhaps the most shocking yet. Admittedly, it was also the funniest. Not necessarily because of what she said. But certainly because of the shock on her little face when she realized what just came out of her mouth. And definitely because of the huge reaction it scored with her brothers. Who laughed until they cried. Seriously. Shaggy was gasping for breath and Dr. D was rolling on the floor.

She was asking for a R**se's Peanut Butter Cup from her Christmas stocking. Only she seriously mixed up the "s's" and the "n's" in R**se's Peanut. Try it. And then drop the "t."

Yeah. Mommy's least favorite body-part word in the whole world just dropped out of sweet little LadyBug's mouth. Like a bomb in a suddenly quiet room. Followed by the explosion of laughter and tears. And hurried explanations of what she was really trying to say. Which just resulted in more tears and laughter and howls.

Yeah. That's my girl.

And yes, I did seek her permission to share this with you all. Seems it's not so embarrassing when you get your very own post. She does like her spotlight occasionally!

This Says It The Best!

In the years that we have been involved in the adoption of our sweet Li'l Empress, we've gotten lots of questions. Of course, there were a couple in the rude and inappropriate category from time to time. ("How on EARTH can you afford a 5th child," and other such impertinences!) In fact, my sister and I were just laughing the other day about the snappy comebacks we wished we had thought of to diffuse the situation. I was lamenting that I normally can think pretty quick on my feet but that I'm stopped dead in my mental tracks by such gall.

However, most of the worthwhile questions have been asked by truly interested and truly concerned people, both stranger and friend or family alike. Those questions, we have always been happy to answer by sharing our heart for orphans and specifically orphans from China.

Most questions have boiled down to one word: "why?"

Yesterday afternoon, I read an excellent post from a fellow adoptive mom who has become a new bloggy-friend. Head over there now and read it for yourself. It says it all.

YOU Can Make a Difference

Cookie Magazine is running its annual Smart Cookie Readers' Choice Award. One of the featured nominees is Amy Eldredge, the founder of Love Without Boundaries. Now, I know that's a lot of links to throw into one paragraph, but please, hang with me a moment!

Love Without Boundaries is not-for profit charitable organization whose sole mission is to improve the quality of life for orphans in China. There are many such organizations, but LWB has a stellar reputation for using their money wisely and for caring for each child with love, compassion, and excellence of resources. The Gang is especially fond of LWB because of their work in the orphanage and related homes where Li'l Empress was living before we brought her to her Forever Family this past fall. They specifically provided nutritional support and resources during the months that Li'l Empress was living there.

The contest features some really great women and the organizations that they represent. Each story is compelling and their causes are worthy. But we'd like you to please consider casting your vote for Amy Eldredge. If you are part of the adoption community, if you know and love The Gang, or if you've spent time praying and supporting us in our journey to Li'l Empress, then this particular woman and her mission likely resonates with you. Please, go there now and fill out the ballot. That $35,000 donation to the winner will go a long, long way toward the medical and nutritional care of little ones just like our Li'l Empress.

Below is an excerpt of the email I got alerting us to the contest. Please, consider joining in the vote. It's so easy to make a difference.

LWB has a chance to win $35,000 to help even more orphaned children in China, and we need your help! Casting your vote for LWB is an easy way to change the lives of children in need.

Simply visit http://www.cookiemag.com/magazine/sweeps/smart_cookie_finalists09/entry/long/

Click on the circle next to the video about LWB. It is the first one, next to Amy Eldridge’s photo.

Fill out the rest of the information needed and click submit. You do not need to fill out the “about you” section if you do not wish, and you can opt out of receiving any information in the future from Cookie Magazine by checking “no” on the boxes asking which information you desire.

Each person over the age of 18 is allowed one vote. This contest is open to people in the US only, unfortunately. If you live in another country, you are not able to vote. Voting takes place from January 6th to February 10th.

Please forward the contest information to all of your family and friends and other yahoogroups. Together, we can win the contest and change many more orphaned children’s lives.

Slow Out the Starting Gate

The return to routine and "normal" life here at the Gang's house has been slow going. Delayed and derailed by sheer exhaustion and sickness. We did a lot of traveling over the holidays, with some movie and jammy days squeezed in here at home between trips. And now, I've got one with a cold that is just barely hovering and lingering on and on; one is home sick with the old-fashioned flu bug (fever, chills, achies and swollen glands), and one is toddling around with a congested cough and stuffy boogie nose. And in case you wondered, cleaning boogies out of her cute little (I mean teeeeeny tiny!) Asian nose is way harder to do than cleaning boogies out of her Caucasian siblings' noses (when they were babies, mind you!). Makes their noses seem like schnozzes!

As for me, I've had a smattering of all those symptoms on and off since Christmas Eve. Nothing bad enough to send me to bed with Nyq*#l and a mug of tea, mind you. Just nagging little symptoms that are making me feel off my game. Making me feel mentally as if I'm trying to swim through muddy waters. Nothing brilliant or original is coming to mind, and simple decisions are tiresome.

Today, I'm reverting to routine by sheer force of will. I'm running laundry, sorting junk drawers, and making soup. I might even make some bread, as long as my yeast is still good. But it irritates the snot out of me (hey, wouldn't it be great if the snot really shot out of me just because I was irritated?! Wouldn't that solve all the problems I just listed here?!) that I'm not yet into my feverish sorting and organizing bliss and frenzy of my normal January mode. Ugh.

I think this is the longest we've ever had our Christmas decor still up. The plan is to take it all down in one day of concentrated effort. The goal is tomorrow, after our trip to the audiologist for Li'l Empress's follow-up evaluations. This is actually a re-set (twice now) of an original goal of Sunday night. The big game was just too riveting and important to be clouded by de-decorating while we watched. Some things just require total concentration.

I guess I'd better not put off the de-decorating any more - after all, Sunday's game is bound to be even more captivating and focus-worthy. And by then, I'm hoping that the foggies here in the Gang's house will have cleared, so we can cheer and scream and yell without triggering multiple coughing fits across the couch.

Here's hoping . . . .

Advancing!

It's a good night to be an Eagles fan.

26-14 over the Minnesota Vikings.

Mmmmm, Mmmmmmm.

Giants, here we come!