Gotta Getcha Back

First Day Of School...... well "Pre-School" 9/7/11

2011-09-17T19:08:00.001-04:00

So hard to believe that my girl has started pre school...... she didn't flinch and ran to the door. She couldn't wait to get there. We rehearsed it for several days, that I would drop her off and I would come back....... will have to post the video of breakfast that morning..... wow. Can't believe how big she is already. Time is flying by.......

Hai Dao Ching Shih (the woman) :)

2011-05-06T12:25:00.000-04:00

Ching Shih(郑氏)

Ching Shih(郑氏) was a famous female pirate in late Qing China. Ching Shih's real name is unknown as is where she was born. She was born in 1785.

In 1801, before becoming a pirate she was working as a prostitute on one of the city Canton's floating brothels. It did not take her long to leave this unfortunate profession and marry a notorious pirate, Zheng Yi. They married in 1801.

Zheng Yi was part of a family that had been very successful in pirating.

After their marriage Zheng Yi gathered together a coalition of the competing Cantonese pirate fleets into an alliance. Within a few years the coalition was a force to be reckoned with and one of the most powerful pirate fleets in all of China. The pirate fleet was known as the Red Flag Fleet'.

Ching Shih was widowed in 1807. She maneuvered herself into her late husband's leadership position. At this time in history it was quite something for a woman to be in the top position. She led over 1500 ships and over 60,000 pirates.

Women today lead things all the time, are heads of companies and love power. But instead of being boss over tame men and women, with the occasional office weirdo, all in business suits and high heels, imagine bossing around grimy, toothless, smelly, violent men who are underfed and on the water for months on end?.

In 1810 she had had enough of life on the seas, violence and filth and took an amnesty offer from the Chinese government. Stepping back from her position, she kept her loot and got married to her adoptive son Cheung Po Tsai. Not one Under her leadership cultural dominance was taken by the fleet over many coastal villages. On occasion they would even tax the people and enforce levies. Ching Shih and her fleet were known to rob markets, towns and villages from Macao to Canton.

to be idle, she opened a successful gambling house.

Death claimed this Chinese history-making pirate at the age of 69 in 1844.

Sunday's Mini Poker Run with friends galore !!!!! 4/9/11

2011-04-12T09:29:00.001-04:00

What an incredible day that we had with friends that we haven't seen in quite a while. It was our 2 year anniversary of meeting Kelly, pictured above..... wow time really flies.........

The weather could have been more cooperative, but what we lacked in good warm sunny weather, we made up for in warm sunny people.

The next run is coming up, and we intend to make that one too........

March 22nd...... 2011 Soooo Spring is finally here, or is it ?

2011-03-22T18:48:00.000-04:00

So, Spring is finally here.... or so the calendar says, BUT, we have snow coming tonight or early tomorrow in the A.M. and I have to now worry about my flowers, that seem to have popped up overnight throughout our property. Hopefully they will survive, or re-grow.

Our adoption business is back up and running, after a 2 1/2 week hiatus. We traveled South to the Florida Keys with some friends and had a wonderful trip.

I'm anxious to launch a bunch of new banners that we've been working on. It brings us such joy to partake in other families joy during their adoption celebration. Orders have been coming in, and it's very refreshing to be suppling people with a product, and a service that can not be found elsewhere. Looking forward to a lucrative Spring.

Gotcha Back
www.gotchaback.net

First Puppy Match..... 2/6/11 Hai Dao Ching Shih MC

2011-02-12T22:45:00.002-05:00

Our first puppy match.... Ching Shih all of 13 weeks old......... lots of fun, and we can't wait to do it again..... !!! The Judge at the end, came over and told me that he can't wait for me to show under him again, when he is a little bigger....... little did he know that the other dog was being handled by a Pro, and that's a total illegal maneuver in a Match show..... owner handled all the way, but I wasn't gonna rat him out...... he's helped me out in the past..., but we'll get him next time..... !! Stupidly, I can't remember the Judges name..... now have to search for it !

1/18/11 So Proud Of My Boy........ NEW "Therapy Dog" :)

2011-01-18T23:31:00.001-05:00

Welcome Hai Dao Ching Shih MC a/k/a Ching Shih (yellow collar)

2011-01-18T23:20:00.001-05:00

Born on 10/20/10

Babies with Mama GiGi

Ching Shih, second in on left.....

Mama

Daddy, Baldo

First night as an American citizen

2 peas in a pod....... first morning together.....

Just passed through customs.... Ching Shih and sister Norah !

I'm cute...... ah huh..... I'm cute...........

January 9th, 2011

2011-01-09T17:26:00.003-05:00

I've been writing and catching up for the last twenty minutes, when all of a sudden poof...... GONE...... and what I was talking about was the incredible changes that my life has gone through, and the wonderful Christmas/Holiday Season we had. We have our daughter home now for a year and counting.... arriving home last year on Christmas Day...... we flew home and touched down on Christmas Eve, and the due to the circumstances of travel, arrived through our door in the whee hours of Christmas morning.

This past year as incredible as it has been went by in the blink of an eye.... we've a multitude of changes, and this year, our Holiday was Blessed by seeing the Season through the eyes of our child...... AND, as if a 2 year old in our lives isn't crazy enough, we've added a new addition to this mix as well. She's our newest furball, fourlegged friend and family member. She is an 11 1/2 week old Briard puppy that we will have in our lives one month tomorrow..... she was flown in from the Czech Republic, and I'm very grateful to have her in my life. She is not only adorable, and snuggly and so lovable, but smart as a whip.... only down side are those teeth. I've forgotten just how hard little puppies and bite, and now I'm learning that the European Briards pack a bigger punch.... I hear that they have a stronger bite, bred in for Schuntzhund training..... (if I spelled that right)...... regardless, she's fitting right in here.... her name is Hai Dao Ching Shih Moravia Campanella ..... Hai Dao is Pirate in Chinese, and Ching Shih.... well google her.... she is one of the most notorious, if NOT the most notorious Pirate that ever lived, and they even portrayed her in the latest Pirates Of The Carribean movie, At World's End...... the Mistress Ching, an older Chinese woman in the movie....... quite young in real life. Her story is pretty amazing, and I hope to write about her in the future. Mean while.... our newest Pirate is fitting in rather nicely......

Life is awesome, life is full of surprises, and life is never as you expect it....... right now I have screams for attention from my Parrot Timothy..... a Goffin's Cockatoo.... and as much as I'd like to sit here and type away, life is calling ....... here's some pics to ring in the New Year...... Happy New Year Everyone! Some random photos from the year ! XOXO'S

11/6/10 1st REUNION - CHINA "BO BABY" REUNION, YAY !

2010-11-08T11:31:00.001-05:00

We had our first ever Bo Baby reunion, and we had an incredible time..... thanks to Mary and John for hosting the festivities, and thanks to the 6 out of 8 families of our group that were able to make it...... already planning the next one :)

we'll miss you !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

10/31/10 My FIRST HALLOWEEN !!!!!!!!

2010-11-04T22:44:00.002-04:00

WOW ! My day started out so incredible..... Daddy and I carved my VERY FIRST PUMPKIN ! It was AWESOME !...... then we went Trick -Or- Treating in the Village..... I was dressed as the perfect Dorothy, and Pirate accompanied me as Toto, and Chelsea was, well, we all know that Chelsea can be a witch, so why not go as the ultimate Wicked Witch of the West............ so, fasten your seatbelt, and have a look see at my most perfect, very first Halloween.........

I can't wait for next Halloween......... this carving Jack-O-Lanterns is fun !!!!!!!!!

Too Cute !

2010-11-02T22:46:00.000-04:00

It's amazing to me watching this little personality unfold. Baylon is all about the clothes, shoes, and accessories. As soon as she is dressed in the morning, she yells out "MIRROR", and runs to check out how she looks...... and usually, she will laugh and get this enormous smile on her face....... here she is all set to bounce around town :) My little girl.... she's such a GIRLIE GIRL !!!! I love it !!!

October 18, 2010 Are Ya 1? Are Ya 2?? YES I'M 2 !!!!!

2010-10-28T19:09:00.000-04:00

10/13/10 ONE YEAR AGO TODAY !!! My Life Was Reborn..........

2010-10-12T22:53:00.002-04:00

It's hard to fathom that one year ago, this day...... our lives were eternally blessed. Our wait, an excruciating wait, that lasted FOREVER............. suddenly melted away..... we learned that we had a daughter...... In an instant, all the pain and longing, all of the anticipation, desire, anger, the frenzy, was completely swept away....... all I had to do was gaze into the eyes of a tiny stranger, ...... but strangely familiar.......

I stared and stared at this little face..... I can still stare at her face, and only now do I know a little bit about whats behins those eyes..... that smile, that expression......

Fast forward to present day................ wow......... the past year has been the most amazing journey, and my life has been so fulfilled, way beyond comprehension !

Getting ready for Halloween 2010 ............ the Wicked Witch, doesn't stand a chance !

Some Family Shots From The Nationals

2010-09-30T10:11:00.000-04:00

What a fun time we had, and Pirate was amazing....... he did great in the Breed ring as well, making it through the second cut......... so excited. Baylon WOW'D everyone with her sweet captivating smile, and hearty belly laugh !

September 22nd....... Pirate earns 2 new titles

2010-09-22T23:22:00.000-04:00

Pirate had a great day today and yesterday in Kentucky....... he earned his TT (Temperment Title), and his TDI ( Therapy Dog International)......

Having a wonderful time here in Kentucky and will post pics soon !

CA-RAZY Just A Day In The Life Of Baylon

2010-09-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

July 23, 2010 Just some random photos............

2010-07-23T21:35:00.000-04:00

Haven't posted much lately so just thought that I'd throw in a few random photos of part of my crew......

Life here has been grand...... we've gelled as a family, and it seems as though we've been this complete unit for EVER.......... still mastering our sleep issues, but we've pretty much worked them out. Baylon falls asleep anywhere between 8 and 9 and will sleep till at least 11, and can wake up anywhere till 3 A.M. I believe that there were exactly 2 nights in which she slept through till the next morning.

I wouldn't trade a thing.......'cept maybe tweak the sleeping issues, but Baylon couldn't be more of my own, than had she been carried in my womb and birthed as my own...... and with every beat of my heart, my love for her grows exponentially.

Just another lovely day...........

Pint Size Pirate

June 6th, 2010

2010-06-07T22:57:00.002-04:00

Our little girl communing with Mother Nature......... she is an animal lover, which warms my heart, having been one my entire life. How this child was matched with our family brings to light the many forces at work...... forces that are beyond explanatory reasoning or coincidence.

The horses and ponies here are rescues..... the horse below is a Grandson of Secretariat, and wound up on its way to the Slaughterhouse...... We are at Baiting Hollow Farm and Vineyards on Long Island, I recommend this place to everyone......

It's amazing the changes that have taken place in our little girl. She grows up everyday........ she's such an adorable, sweet and funny child.

We are so blessed !!!

My Baby's Growing Up 5/18/10

2010-05-18T09:26:00.000-04:00

Settling Into Routines

2010-04-26T21:09:00.007-04:00

We are settling into a wonderful routine these days. Baylon IS sleeping better.... sometimes not as much as I'd like, but she is definitely sleeping.

Here she is in a typical afternoon of play. She has numerous toys, as does Pirate and Chelsea..... mostly Pirate, as Chelsea isn't a big toy pooch....... BUT, the amazing thing here is that there is a mutual respect amongst Pirate and Baylon. He leaves her toys alone, and will seek out his own, and only his own, and Baylon will pick up a toy, a toy that is mixed in with her toys, and she will hold it up and say Pi Pi...... (I know, I know..... gotta fix those wires !)

Here we have a typical breakfast...... well, Baylon will munch on Cheerios with her brother Timothy. They each share the Cheerios while I make a real breakfast. Timothy is so gentle with Baylon, and in everyday life, this little guy can try to take your finger off...... but not our little girl. He's as sweet as pie with Baby Baylon......

Easter Sunday 2010

2010-04-13T22:29:00.000-04:00

My little girl is growing up...... she has changed so much in the last four months, since she was placed in my arms. This was her first Easter, and she dazzled, and wow'd our family...... just as she dazzles and wows us everyday !

March 28, 2010 Sunday Morning Breakfast

2010-03-29T22:11:00.003-04:00

I've been allowing these two to get to know one another gradually. Timothy has been so gentle with Baylon, it's wonderful to watch. He'll gingerly accept a Cheerio from her small extended hand.

Our whole family has come together as one complete happy unit. I can't wait for each new day to begin, and feel so Blessed to awaken each day with all that I have to look forward too.

Pirate is back on track with his training, and soon, we'll begin with Chelsea as well. Pirate is doing Obedience.... and Agility, and if this weather EVER breaks, we'll be back Sheep Herding as well.

We're even going to head back into the Show Ring in a couple of weeks. We are going to Special Pirate here and there, just to keep him ring savvy. He won't be truly competitive till he matures a bit, as he's still a baby at just 2 yrs. 4 months..... Briards mature slowly, and can fill out till they are three, sometimes four years old.
His true color still hasn't appeared as of yet. His half brothers are a couple of months older than he is, and they are just starting to change. Tawny's can go through various color changes in their early years. I can see red roots on Pirate, which I love....... hopefully I'm not just seeing things.

March 27th, 2010

2010-03-27T23:21:00.005-04:00

Our lives have been enriched 10 fold. We live each day with renewed purpose, and directive. It's amazing to me that someone so small, can have a presence so large. Baylon, you have always been in my heart, my mind, and my soul, now you permeate every breath that I take.

Baylon and Pirate you both fill my heart with sunshine.

March 20th, 2010 FIRST DAY OF SPRING !!!!

2010-03-20T23:40:00.005-04:00

Pirate has a play date with Halle, a female Briard from the neighborhood. They got along famously, and we all had a lovely day in the park. Hopefully there will be more "hot dates", this Season !

March 17th, 2010

2010-03-17T23:15:00.001-04:00

Baylon's room is starting to really come together. We FINALLY got the wallpaper trim up, and are now ready to start hanging the pictures, and artwork, some of which we brought back from China. Can't wait to see the finished product. Behind those curtains are still areas that need to be finished..... hah, so what's new :)

The toy chest/changing table is also unfinished. Need to buy more pain to complete the flowers..... still wondering whether to add an area rug, for now, we're good with this !! I absolutely love the colors, and theme, my Sister keeps telling me she's gonna want Fairy Princesses or something other than this, but if my girl is anything like her Mother, and ironically, she seems to be just like me in many aspects, which is totally weird, so marine life should suffice for now at least. I'll have her watching The Cove in no time, hehehehe !!!

March 14th, 2010.........

2010-03-14T20:14:00.002-04:00

Three months has flown by.... three months since our lovely, beautiful Baylon was placed in my arms. Life has never been more sweet !

We are truly Blessed !

March 13th, 2010

2010-03-13T23:11:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow will mark three months since my darling daughter was placed in my arms. Nothing has been the same since, and I can honestly say that my life has become whole. The only way I can liken the feeling that follows me throughout the day is this..... it's as though my being was sand, and my daughter is the wave that has just washed over me, filling every orifice, every molecule of my soul with her energy, making me complete.

We couldn't be more Mother and Daughter if I bore her as my Mother bore me, with the exception, that I've breathed, eaten, and slept our union in my heart, my mind, and every breathe that I have breathed.

I've always heard talk of offensive comments made by some ignorant people. It was something that I heard happened to those that have adopted, but not having made it too that point yet, and not having actually been in that situation, I didn't pay much attention.

Recently, since I've been out and about with my little girl, I've come into two situations that had me thinking. Stupid comments that I don't even care to mention now, but two times it made me remember others that were often upset by such things...... tonight, on the other hand, I actually was flawed...... tonight, I actually heard someone say, what's with all these "old women having babies".... they meant that for me, as I was the only one there with a baby..... two seconds after this comment left this a-holes mouth, they noticed I was there and said hello..... I just said, "what did you just say"?? At least he had the decency to repeat what he said..... I, stupidly just let it go..... WOW, there really are such uncaring, JERKS out there...... I need to be more prepared in my handling of these encounters, so as to not upset my daughter. She was right there with me every time this has happened, I need to protect her.

Oh well, there is only so much time I will invest in stupid people and their stupid, STUPID comments.......
ahhhhh, I think there are brownies cooling, and they need my attention!

Can't wait to see this film !!!

2010-03-12T09:51:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipMtH5zDf8I&feature=player_embedded

March 8th, 2010....... 60+ Degrees....... Has Spring Sprung?

2010-03-08T23:49:00.002-05:00

Wow------------- what a gorgeous day.......... more, more, more, more, more, please !!!!! Now, it was just a tad bit sad that no one was interested in posing for these shots........ they couldn't sit still, and were outta there in a flash.... maybe next time !

Last Day Of February, YAY !!!! 2/28/10

2010-02-28T23:00:00.002-05:00

2010-02-28T22:46:00.005-05:00

Today we spent a few hours visiting her cousins. She had a wonderful time, and it was fun to see her socializing with young people.

2/26/10

2010-02-26T21:57:00.000-05:00

Lovely Snow Day

Ahh, let there be SHOES !!!! 2/24/10

2010-02-24T21:18:00.001-05:00

Well, slowly, but surely, the room is seeing some progression. Curtains up, now we're just waiting for the perfect window,( HA, no pun intended )......... to approach the wallpaper trim. Someone has to occupy twinkle toes for a bit, so that the paper gets hung straight. Then there's the matter of a rug, and some paint still needs to be applied, and the pictures and art need to be hung....... but the curtains that was a major thing. The tie backs are just the prototype, they need to be worked on a bit.

Me thinkst that the curtains need to be adjusted......
Ahh, but on to bigger and better things....... SHOES !!!!
Turns out, there's tons and tons of shoes in here................ oooh, la, la !!!
Never knew this was so much fun !!!!!!!
I think my new idol is Imelda Marcos !!!!

TEE HEE HEE !!!
OOOOOOOOOOOH, I love this fabric, maybe we should add some sparkles !
Very interesting !!
WOW ! Incredible.....................................................BAYLON, JUST BREATHE !

So many shoes....... so little time ..

Chinese New Years Parade - Marching with FCC 2/21/10

2010-02-21T22:47:00.001-05:00

Today we had the distinct pleasure of marching in the Chinese New Year's Parade in Manhattan. We marched with Families With Children From China....... a/k/a The FCC. Baylon slept during the entire march. She's not been feeling well still, only this time it seems that she is cutting approx. 8 teeth, and they all seem to be molars. She's been a trooper, but in a lot of discomfort, and besides that, she's got The Little Gym Syndrome....... every time we go play, she takes home some friends with her...... nasty germs and always comes down with something, hence Mom has dubbed the Little Gym, the Little Germ.

Two other families that we had traveled with to China, (they live in N.Y.), were with us...... after a wonderful day of walking, we celebrated with an incredible meal..... no, not Chinese food.......... you'll never guess..........................................

we ate, Vietnamese Food.......... yup, it was scrumpt-deeee-licious !

Ruth and her Mom.......... her sweet, SWEET, Mom :)

Baby Jia........ getting soooooooooooooooooooooo big, she was one of the youngest babies to be adopted in our group....... !!

This is beautiful Gia................

Donna and Rob.............

Gia and Baylon holding hands......... too cute !
Oh, and forgot to mention...... our Mom's dressed us in our Gotcha Outfits, that's the outfits that the Orphanage Director had us dressed in...... these were donated to the Orphanage by other families that had adopted from the Poyang Orphanage prior to us........ THANKS GUYS!
Yeah Mom, it's meeeeee, seems you took the crappiest pics of me today, and there are none of you.........'WHAD UP?'
Practicing the Itsy Bitsy Spider....... hey, get with the program !

Life Is Good !

2010-02-20T22:24:00.000-05:00

My two Munchkins :)

2/14/10 And, We're Walking, We're Walkin"

2010-02-14T21:17:00.000-05:00

And we're walkin, and we're walkin'.............. and we're walkin' and .................................................

Look Dad.............. NO HANDS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and we're walkin'.....................
and I MADE IT TO YOU DAD !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! now for the turnaround............
wallah...... or is it voilah...... how do you say, voi......lah ??
Oh yeah, Mom, on my way back to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Workin' My Way Back To You Now, (isn't that a song??)........

Happy Valentine's Day......... and Happy Chinese New Year..... I'd have it down in Chinese if my Mom could only remember her Gung Hay Fat Choi, but she doesn't, and it's all WRONG !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where's Toodles????.................... "OH TOODLES"........................

2010-02-13T14:18:00.000-05:00

Okay Pirate, the coast is clear....you go that way, and I'll go this way, Mommy can't be in two places at once....... on your mark..., get set........., GO !!!!!!
Now,I've been lookin' at this menagerie' from the crib for weeks now, so lets see, I know these fishies come apart, but how......................?
Ahhh, I think I need some tools...... "Oh Toodles, oh TOOOOODLES",
Wow.............. I just knew that was a gimic..... let me think, who's in charge around here!!!!!
Let's see......... hmmmmmn, what to do......................who can help me ?
Mickey, now I've been watching you religously, every morning, but you disappointed me too know end just now....... where's TOODLES !!!!!!!
So friggin' frustrating...............................................
Listen you.......... wait, let me get closer ....................
This is just so exhausting.....

What would Pirate do?????, he can do anything....................

You just wait Mickey, when my big brodda gets back, you're in trouble.......

Where is he?????............. you just wait bub, I'm outta here.........
See, my reinforcements arrived......... oh Pirate, I know Mickey's one of the good guys, but every day, when he needs tools, he just simply yells "Toodles", and the tools arrive..... gee, maybe Mickey doesn't speak baby or Briard for that matter.
Pirate, I hear Mama, scram....... act natural...................
Good job..... she'll never suspect a thing !!!!!!!!!!

2/11/10 The Aftermath Of Blizzard 2010

2010-02-11T23:29:00.000-05:00

The after blizzard par'tay

Pirate, bring that toy over here, and go get me a snowball, please......
How's this spot Baylon..... there's some good snow over here......
Dave you make awesome snowballs..... can we see it please?
This is fun Mom, and my boots, they stayed on see ?

Oh, PiPi..... stop kissin' me........ it tickles.....................

Put that tongue somewhere else...........

Come here often???????????
Nice day we're having huh?

He, he, hee..... where's yur nose buddy...... carrots, do I hear carrots ?

Finally, what took them so long to throw my toy..... ahhh, almost... got...it.....

I know Chelsea, these boots really came in handy...... Thanks Cousin Liz!
There's that cold stuff again........

2/6/10 Nanny's & Poff's visit

2010-02-07T22:02:00.000-05:00

Nanny came to spend time with me today...... I think I'll play hard to get for a whee bit longer, maybe I can keep this stuff up for a bit, squeak out a bit of extra hugs, and kisses....... Poppy was there two, and we played some ball. Yeah, I can get used to extra hugs and kisses.....hmmmmn, yup, this is good, I hear they are comin' back next week. Can't wait, ahhhh, but I have to remember, they don't call me Ole' Stoneface for nothin', I've got a reputation to upkeep !

Briard Babysitting

2010-02-06T19:24:00.000-05:00

So what exactly is the going rate for Briard Babysitting? Now, if I can just train him to put her socks back on........ then I'd have it made...............

2/4/10 Second Play Date A Complete SUCCESS !!!!!!

2010-02-05T10:49:00.000-05:00

Gia came over to play with me..... last time we played at her house and I got to see her cool toys.... this time she got to see mine..... his name is Pirate and he gave her the Pirate welcome..... kisses.... big, wet, slobbery kisses...... now she's officially inducted as crew!!!
Induction ceremony over, it's time to change the agenda......
I said, move on to the next topic..... doesn't anybody understand baby lingo..... well get these screams......
so outta here.........

when forward motion doesn't work....... move BACKWARDS................ move out peeps, thanks Pirate... at least he understands me..... !!!

2010-02-05T10:46:00.001-05:00

Back In China... Is It A Bird ......... Is It A Plane..........?? It's BAYLON!!!!!!!

2010-01-31T22:57:00.000-05:00

A snippet of our last night in Guangzhou, China, at the infamous White Swan Hotel, on the historical Shamain Island, overlooking the famed Pearl River......... 12/22/09

Last Saturday's Play Date

2010-01-27T23:03:00.000-05:00

I have no idea what Baylon was thinking with that puss on, only know that we walked into our friends house seemingly healthy, and right before my eyes, I witnessed the onset of my girls first cold, (with us). She just started getting this runny nose, and I'm like O.M.G., I hope they don't think I brought her here knowing this..... it was awful, and everything proceeded to go downhill from there. It's currently Wednesday night..... 5 days later, and not only did Baylon go down for the count, I caught that damn cold, and I swear this was THE WORST COLD OF MY LIFE......... I blame it all on The Little Gym...... and ya know what, we're on the mend, and tomorrow, we're going back to the scene of the crime..... what am I thinkin'

1/24/10 In The End It's All Gone To The Dogs

2010-01-24T21:18:00.000-05:00

When it's all said and done..... it's really all gone to the dogs anyway........ our lives are so enriched by our pooches....... this is my boy Pirate...... who thinks he's my one and only..... he is my "Puppy Boy Pirate"..............

and this is................... Princess Chelsea..................... she's doing her impression of "E.T.".........
You don't really see me............ I'm just a mirage........

Oh Chelsea, you crack me up !!!!!!!

Gotta catch my breath........... sheeeeeeeesh !
just a day in the life........
I'm ready for my closeup Mr. DeMille....... (?)...... who??????
Just chillin' with me ball..............
Live is oh so deliciously good !
"Dog..... I can do dog....... woof, woof...... I said WOOF" !!!!! Look I can fetch too !!!!!!

1/23/10 Our First Cold

2010-01-23T20:51:00.000-05:00

My poor baby is sick..... she came down with the sniffles yesterday, and by last night it was a full blown case of the common cold. Today, she seemed a bit worse for a bit, but now, I'm hopeful that she is on the upswing. We increased our vitamins, and I gave her a bit more fluids. My girl loves to drink ANYTHING.... except not as fond of water as she is of her soy milk or juices (diluted of course).... but today, we increased the uptake. I had actually decreased it a bit, as she was overflowing every make of diaper on the market..... but I've happily found Huggies Snug and Dry, and by George... I think that we've 'GOT IT"...... it is my intention to spare the environment and go to cloth diapers...... haven't had the time to research this like I'd like to, and now very content with my find on the huggies..... having to change outfits and continuously wash clothes impacts on the environment too...... in the last 24 hours, not one leakage problem.

So that's it....... no happy smiley faces to look at... just a red nose that is constantly running......... well, I have to say, she still is a happy, smiley little girl... just not so wonderful to look at with the fall out in the nose department...... but I think I'll keep her just the same.... and shooooosh, she's actually sleeping all tucked in, in her crib...... I think I'm off to do the same....... toodles !

Desperate target Haiti’s orphanages January 22nd, 2010

2010-01-23T00:51:00.000-05:00

www.chinaadopttalk.com

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To survive after quake, the desperate target Haiti’s orphanages

Haiti’s orphanages have become targets for people desperate for food, water and medical supplies in the aftermath of the devastating magnitude 7.0 earthquake.

On Wednesday night, Maison de Lumiere, an orphanage caring for 50 orphans, came under attack from a group of 20 armed men, aid workers told the Joint Council on International Children’s Services.

A neighboring orphanage sheltering about 135 children has been robbed several times over the past few days, they said.

Meanwhile, aid workers said a third orphanage caring for 17 orphans reported that townspeople are trespassing and tapping into the water supply that is reserved for the children.

Click on the link to read the rest at CNN’s site.

And from CCAI’s report of taking supplies to Haiti:

We unloaded the supplies as quick as we could and covered the truck with tarps. We offered them an advise we received prior to our departure from another pilot who has been transporting aid to Haiti the day before: Cover the supplies with tarps and let a couple of guys lie on top of it pretending dead so supplies will not be high-jacked on the way back to the orphanage.

1/21/10 A TASTE OF LIFE WITH BAYLON

2010-01-21T22:33:00.000-05:00

Here is a glimpse into my World....... a World wrapped up in laughter, joy, and continuous LOVE..... the shots below, represent the expressions and antics that permeate this wonderful, inquisitive, smart, and hysterically funny little girl, my daughter.

What a playdate we had today...............

2010-01-20T21:34:00.000-05:00

Fellow "Bo" Babies.... (Poyang SWI), SISTA'S FOREVER !!!!

Ooooh...... nice toy...... keep it together Baylon.... don't let on how cool this toy is......... e-a-s-y-................
Hey Gia, whad ya think of the hood????????? Sure beats Nanchang...... HEY, WE GOT HEAT !!! and CLEAN AIR !!!, and FOOD !
OH MAN, YOU DON'T GET IT DO YOU........ baby's !!! SHEEEESH!!!

Listen to me.... they'll be eaten' outta ur hands.........stay serious....... don't crack a smile...... not a smiggin' of a smile...
"Baylon, I get it, I get it...... is this cute enough for ya "??

I got an extra '3' over hear......... whose in need of a '3'?????

I hear ya.........

No Gia.... just keep listening to me.... I'll steer ya clear......

Wait that's...... MINE !!!!!
I SAID MINE GIRLFRIEND....... SISTA......... M. I. N. E. !!!
OH, YEAH !!!, that's right..... this it your house.... I SEE...... OOOPS..... "my bad !"

January 18th..... "15 MONTHS OLD" WOWEEEEE

2010-01-19T10:31:00.000-05:00

Yesterday on Baylon's 15 month B'day...... we headed off to the Broadway Mall in Hicksville for a playdate with some other FCC Children. It was our formal introduction, having missed the big celebration on Sunday. Mom had two days of high temperature, so she had to take it easy. It was actually the first sleep that she had since I arrived, as Dad completely took over. I'm also actually falling into a nice schedule, and instead of waking up every 20 to 30 minutes, I'm sleeping almost two hours at a clip through the night, giving everyone much needed rest.

This is me looking at myself in one of those "fun house" type of mirrors....

We wore this outfit specifically to show Vicky and Emily, they chose this outfit for Baylon, and gave it as a Shower Gift, among some other things..... it's one of our favorites, and so, we wore it again this day to show them..... as they were there :)

We had to really disinfect after touching all of those surfaces....
Okay Mom, you stay right there, I'm off to check out my peeps !!
This is me over the weekend........ and what I wore to Saturday morning brunch with Vicky, Tracy and baby Victoria, right before Mom got ill with her fever........! Ain't I somethin??

And finally, Timothy is finally right here at home where he belongs. I actually got to touch his tail this morning............. what next ?????

January 14th, ONE MONTH GOTCHA-VERSARY

2010-01-14T13:47:00.001-05:00

One Month GOTCHA-versaryIt's hard to imagine that Baylon was only placed in my arms one month ago today..... we celebrated by enrolling in a Mommy and Me type of class at our little gym. Baylon was a total social butterfly, and out of respect for the other parents I won't post any pics that have other children in it...... I'll ask them next time if they mind, and we'll go from there.
We'll be celebrating tonight with Chinese food and Dave's parents.................. more pics to follow !

January 10th, 2010 One Month Countdown ...... 4 days

2010-01-10T20:15:00.001-05:00

It's truly hard to fathom that in just 4 days, we will have been a family for one whole month.

I'm amazed by how far our girl has come. When we first were united, she would have this blank "stone face", we called it. Every now and again, mostly in new situations, (as she is shy initially), she will exhibit this "stone face"..... this isn't really it, as she's just staring at me, but this could be "the face". In keeping up as Pirate's biggest fan, Baylon dons lots of Pirate gear, mostly courtesy of my Sister Rhonda...... Baylon's biggest fan.

but, THIS, is the face that we've come to know....................

and she just keeps getting cuter, and cuter.........
and this is the infamous squishy face........... oh, and check out the hair.... it's actually growing, and getting darker, and darker. I swear every time I look at her it's longer, or thicker. I keep brushing it up trying to spike it...... it's really too funny !!

You may think our little girl is stuffed in this pack n play a lot, but it's sporadic, and makes for easy picture taking. She's still not got her sea legs, and wobbles all over the place, she's getting there, pulls herself up, and cruises around holding onto things, but she's not walking round on her own yet, thank goodness !!!!!

1/9/10 Saturday Morning

2010-01-09T13:53:00.000-05:00

My two little monkey's....... both looked as if they just rolled out of bed...... and they absolutely did...... Baylon is into crumpling paper, and Pirate is just hangin'..... she crumples and throws.... as she did with the one behind her.Still haven't taken down the tree..... have some things to straighten down in the basement, and then we'll deal with the tree.

Baylon still isn't keen on going down for naps and bedtime. If she's fallen asleep, which is my dream, then all we have to do is get her smoothly transitioned to the bed. Today, we are having trouble with that theory, and are opting for letting her get used to being alone. Hence the screaming began again, and Dave is currently in the rocking chair staring at our baby. I think that we'll have to give the screaming session another go and see if we can get passed that this time.

She has been sleeping in her crib at night, and once asleep, if she wakes up, then she usually will fall right back to sleep with me standing there..... we still have sleep in sessions in my room around 5:30 am, but Mama loves these as much as Baby....

Oh well, that's it for now...... need to run to Stop and Shop, and groom my boy....... he needs another brushing, and that's our bond time. What he really needs is a bath, but will wait a bit for that, if I can help it.

THANK YOU DONNA :)

2010-01-04T11:21:00.000-05:00

I had to upload a picture of our beautiful quilt, made by my Sister's friend and Bulldog breeder Donna..... it's absolutely stunning, and she is so thoughtful :)

Sunday January 3, 2010 Note To Myself

2010-01-03T22:23:00.000-05:00

My Sister Rhonda, and Baylon getting to know each other better this afternoon....... ( "A First Kiss")

As I sit here, contemplating the closure of the Holiday weekend, I have such a sense of awe and anticipation for the future. We've literally been in a whirlwind since October 13th, 2009, the actual referral day of our dear daughter. Since that moment in time, our World as we knew it changed. We never even had time to think about it, let alone digest it. We'd been waiting 4 + years for this moment, and the amount of unpreparedness of it was mind boggling. This was in part because of all of the bumps in the road, leading up too that moment, and never actually knowing if this little wonder sleeping in her bed below me, (her room is downstairs), would ever materialize.

We scrambled too ready the house, make arrangements and plod on through our days, business as usual. So much to wonder about, such a leap of faith. Would our daughter be healthy and happy, would we be good parents, would our family as we knew it, be able to make the transition...... (our dogs and parrot), who WERE our children, again, our family.

I have to say, everything is working out perfectly. I, who looked at baby's and made them cry...... never felt connected to children.... I always thought I was better at animals, puppies, and birds to be more specific.... but from the moment I gazed at the photograph of our daughter, and which totally amplified when I held her in my arms..... I felt that connection.

As we overcome our jetlag, drift past the hustle and bustle of the Holidays, and settle into a routine, our union of family is crystalizing.... it's becoming rock solid.

Our worries about sleep issues have resolved themselves...... and for no apparent reason.

I never was able to follow through and let her cry......... that night that I photographed her crying in her pack n play, while I cried out online, was the last time. Ever since then, she goes down to sleep, and if she wakes in the early hours of the morning, she falls right back to sleep with me looking on...... When she cries again between 5:30 and 6:30, I scoop her up in my arms, and we cuddle in my bed and drift off to sleep together, and just snuggle till breakfast..... no drama, no issues, no worries.

I'm also, totally amazed by my Briard, Pirate. I had some concerns as to how he was going to adjust to no longer being the baby, (he's still my baby), but he's such a mush. He never truly had exposure to children. You go ask someone with their beloved child if you're humongous gigantic puppy dog, can have a look see and sniff your baby. We had some interaction, it just wasn't often, and then there wasn't the children running amuck screaming and flailing in his face....... BUT, Pirate has become one of my biggest joys regarding our new addition. Pirate, took on the role of Guardian over Baylon. He's there for every diaper change, and every little peep out of her, if I go to check on her, I have a shadow, and he'll check continuously on his own too...... he's so completely adorable, and my joy just abounds over his wonder of this baby. I just never knew he would be so loving and attentive, and seem to make her his own responsibility. It's just incredible......

Chelsea is holding her own. I think she's still hoping that her World as she knew it will return, but I do feel optimistic that they will become great friends.

Timothy, has yet to return, and I'm sure he will be fine....... I think that Baylon will have to get used to Parrot antics and "screams"...... in her referral paperwork, it's stated that she likes quiet..... we're not sure where this comes from exactly. This introduction will be interesting, but I have faith, that just like the rest of us, this too will be fine. Hopefully Timothy will return in a few days.... that's if I can get his sitter and great friend to relinquish him, :).

Lastly...... is Dave. Baylon, who tends to be fearful of men, and definitely went through an adjustment period with Dave, is becoming such a Daddy's girl. They do so many fun things together..... he talks and she mimics him. They are such a sight together, and it warms my heart. He's such a good Daddy.

So that's it...... tomorrow is a new day....... tomorrow...... IS TRULY OUR GIFT !!!!

The posts will diminish some, as there is so much that I want to do for Baylon, so much that I want to read, and learn. I want to get back into training with Pirate, and Chelsea, &

start up our Obedience and Agility... and when it gets a tad warmer, Sheep Herding will resume..... AND then there are these Mommy and Me classes I just looked up, and baby yoga.... so many things, so I need to take time away from posting, for now, and with that......... I'm signing off now..... till the next time !

1/2/10 Just Playin' Wid My Big Brodda

2010-01-02T21:26:00.000-05:00

Allow me to get down to your level my dear........... ahhhh, this is SOOOO much bett-a !

You go girl !

2010-01-02T16:03:00.000-05:00

Hard left..... harder..... g-o LEFT ! Geeeeeeeese........ you'll never pass your road test this way. YOU MUST ALWAYS LISTEN TO THE CHELSINATOR !
My bad !!

I'm gettin' the hang of this now.......... thanks for the spot Dad, but I'm goooooood.
YOU KNOW WHAT I'M TAUKIN 'BOUT!
Yeah Pirate, that's where I almost spun out...... wow, I's burnin' wubba.
C'mere big guy...... give us a kiss ! Who wuv's you........

2010-01-02T15:57:00.000-05:00

Ooooooh, football, I LOVE football...... HUT.......HUT !!!!!!!!

On your mark, let's get set..................... GO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Time for a huddle my friend...... let's kick Chelsea's butt !

1/1/10 What's for dinner tonight ?????????

2010-01-01T20:44:00.000-05:00

I'm a gettin' yur nose Chelsea........ Mom taught me this neat game...... see, ooooh, almost got it!!
Poised in perhaps the best seat in the house.... Chelsea waits for the fall out...... she's no fool!

I love Dr. Aronson... she says I should feed myself, and boy, oh boy do I have choices..... always a veggie, which I love, have 3 types of fish tonight, and udon noodles...... thanks Mom, I'm glad that you like Asian style cooking ! Chelsea loves it too..... Hey, where's Master Pirate ?

2010-01-01T20:42:00.000-05:00

More please..................................... yeah, I know, I'm wearing lots of it, but what the heck........

SNOW ! YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
C'mon Mawww, let's play, you missed the first big snow, gotta ketch up!!!

1/1/10 NEWS FLASH oh and HAPPY NEW YEAR

2010-01-01T12:18:00.000-05:00

This was earlier - (New Years Eve)......Here's our angel sleeping.......can you believe it ??? Sorry for the poor picture quality, but it's the only one I took... I was so shocked that she was going to sleep immediately after being placed down, that I scrambled to shoot the picture, worrying I'd wake her up........ oh well..... no worries, the point is shhhhhooooosh....... the baby is asleep !

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This is your morning news update....... . . . . Baylon went down to bed in her crib at approximately 9PM and there she slept, peacefully, uneventfully, and most important - QUIETLY- for the entire night..... in fact I went into look at her and make sure she was alright, several times during the night...... OUR ANGEL SLEPT TILL 8:20 AM that's all night by her lonesome lil' beautiful self !

Life is good...... off to a wonderful start to the New Year !

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12/31/09 HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY, HAPPY NEW YEAR WORLD !

2009-12-31T21:40:00.000-05:00

Took this with my i phone during dinner. We are celebrating not only New Years Eve, but Dave's B'day as well..... and my nephew too..... Rhonda, (my Sister), im'd me a photo of Elliott, and his girlfriend taken during their celebratory dinner..... I had Baylon in a highchair, feeding her dinner, and took an impromptu photo..... this is what I got. She remains the most lovable, funny, and quirky gal you could meet., and I keep asking, how is all of this in the package of a 14 month old??????????????????????????????????

So, we're looking at New Year's Eve.... but you can't have that without closing out the year behind you.....

We have dealt with many things in the past...... and all the while, we were waiting for our daughter, not understanding why our referral was seemingly going backwards in time.... BUT, there could have been no other time...... We are relishing in the epitomy of DESTINY..... and this child, is and has always been our daughter.

I have to admit, I got quite frantic for a couple of days.... perhaps it was jetlag, on my part, and definitely my daughters... I suddenly panicked about what to do, when to do it, and if I was doing it right...... suddenly I was asking permission to do the things that went against the grain of some...... but was in my heart to do.

When I finally asked the professionals... the people I was paying to take care of Baylon and ourselves.... they reiterated, what I had already known..... I was so afraid to coddle her, spoil her, and just relish in this special time that can never be again........ and suddenly I was questioning.... "oh gosh, she wants to be held AGAIN...... when in my heart I wanted to run to her....... BUT, there was this, "DON'T SPOIL HER" in my head........ suddenly I wasn't acting from my gut, but from my head..... when we went to see the Doc's.... and also spoke with my Social Worker, who, after 4 years of reminding me what papers had to be renewed, I somehow thought that was her specialty............ but NO, SHE KNOWS ALL THIS STUFF...... and what I got was just what was in my heart.... and you know what.... as soon as I acted with my heart, Baylon settled down....... tonight, she went to bed with a bottle, (IN HER OWN CRIB),.... that was it......... no drama, no worries..... just drifted off to sleep.......... HAPPY NEW YEAR ........HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVE....... I think we CAN be GREAT parents....... I just want to close with this.... I'm beside myself with joy... I'm elated beyond recognition....... I'm tearful as I type, because I've never been this happy...... I'm in love with this baby, I'm in love with my daugher, I'm in love with my LIFE !!!! Truly Blessed !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVE........

12/30/09 Pirate's 2nd Birthday, and Daddy's B'day EVE

2009-12-30T20:21:00.000-05:00

Mom, my clips dangling in my face....... can ya give a hand over here please..... oh, and bring my comb and gear bag.... we've some work to do if I'm to look gooooooood for my Birthday Party......Ohhhhh.......... could this be for me.....???????????????????? Ooooh, LA LA....... let's see one, two candles for my age, and one for good luck......... WOW, THAT'S A LOT OF CANDLES !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Oh Daddy, who does Chelsea's hair ???? I think it's LOVELY !Mom, I've told you three times, you have to cut the price tag off of Pirate's present !
Daddy, she just doesn't listen does she.... oh Pirate RELAX, I just said your new toy..... uh, GLISTENS........, yeah, GLISTENS !
Where's the cake??????????
Pirate, I'm the new "numero uno", glad to meet ya ! NOW GIVE ME THAT TOY, come on hand it over..... that's right, right over here and PRONTO !
Tee, hee, hee.....
I've' got them eaten outta my hands.......I know you love me........ say it again...... tell me I'm pretty again......

Me, me, me, me............. Happy Birthday to Pirate....... Happy Birthday to Pirate, Happy Birthday to Pirate, Happy Birthday to you..........

Are ya one, are ya two...... oh, yeah, Daddy's Birthday is tomorrow.......... okay, where's Pirate...
PIRATE..... I'm supposed to kiss you !!!!!!!
Let's do it again.......

Oh, I love it here................. what's on the agenda for tonight??????? An all night movie marathon?????? I can't wait for The Honeymooner's Marathon tomorrow night,,,,, who's with me?????

12/29/09 What A Difference A Day Makes

2009-12-29T20:05:00.000-05:00

Today we braved the frigid cold and had our first train ride into Manhattan. We had our Doctor's appt. with the renowned Dr. Jane Aronson, International Pediatrician. She has many high profile clientele such as Angelina Jolie's adopted children. I figure if that's good enough for the Brangelina gang, it's good enough for us. Hell, they could afford anybody they wanted ! We're in great hands.

Before I go on about our trek into the City, I want to recap on last night for a bit. After my long post, I gathered up my little girl, and off to bed we went...... she fussed a bit going into the crib, but oddly enough, she let me lay her down, and though I could tell she wasn't happy, she fell asleep, while I watched on. Wow, couldn't believe it..... so then I thought, I've got to make it out of the room, and never thought that would happen, but sure enough it did. I crawled into my bed just on the other side of the wall, and set my monitor sound to high..... then I drifted off, into much needed restful sleep. The crying began a couple of hours later, and I definitely took a little time to realize the here and now, and go next door. A quick diaper change, a cuddle and a hug, and I placed her down again, and this time, strange though it seemed, she drifted off right before my eyes.

Back in bed, and very comfy, I too, got some much need rest, and again heard the faint cries a couple of hours or so later..... this time, changed the diaper again, but for some reason, didn't feel comfortable just putting her down..... this time, I was still groggy, and wanted my bed, THIS TIME, I took her with me, and I have to say the two of us snuggled, and the two of us drifted off into oblivion and woke somewhere in the vicinity of 8 a.m. This time, my little girl woke with a big grin on her face, and this time, so did I.

We thoroughly loved Dr. Aronson...... and I can't believe just how wonderful and knowledgeable she is. The blood draw was enough to rip my heart out, having to use her Jugular Vein.... that was more traumatic than I care to think about again. Baylon is in the 13th percentile of weight, and 56th percentile for height.... but I have to check those numbers, doing this from memory, and may be a tad off, but I do believe that's what I heard.

It didn't take long before Baylon warmed up, and began captivating everyone. She is perfectly healthy, except for Vit. D deficiency, enough to show early signs of Ricketts, and we have some prescription Vitamins to correct this.

She is no longer to be on formula, but introduced to Milk, or Soy Milk. I still have to research the Organic Milk farmers in the area, so for now, it's just easier to go Soy. She's to have 12 to 14 ounces a day, and to eat EVERYTHING we do except nuts & popcorn....... it's very important for her to feed herself, and have the hand, eye coordination, and to discover the thrill of eating all of those wonderful foods that she's never tasted before. For the next two weeks, we are to have a field day, and make every meal delicious and fun..... after two weeks of this, Baylon should start settling in, and the sleeping should get easier.... there is a whole basis behind this, but once again, I'm drained and not thinking as clearly, or shall I say, not having the most accurate recall. Will go over my paperwork and clarify things tomorrow.

In the meantime, she passed everthing, (other than the unknown labs), but passed everything with flying colors. The Doctor thought that not only was she beautiful, SMART, and comical, she was "CHARMING" !! We've always thought so.

After our workup, and prior to the 2 innoculations that aren't given in China, that she was to received, we met with a Psychotherapist that is among a network of people that Dr. Aronson incorporates in her practice. They all seem to have formed a circle of knowledge, readily available for each of their patients. I was so eager to speak with this woman, and get some answers to all of those aching questions I've been toting around.

Mostly, we spoke about Baylon's bonding issues, of which, she's doing a fine job...... but we gained insight into the co-sleeping, pick her up/ don't pick her up mindset. The bottom line is, that Baylon should be picked up when she cries, held when she cries, and even brought into bed for either co-sleeping or partial co-sleeping....... whichever fits better into our lifestyle. She feels that an adoptive child under 2 or 3, can benefit from the security of this situation and it will set her up as a stronger more emotionally stable individual later in life..... again, I'm tired, and really need to post this when I have clearer thoughts, but I've been gathering quite a following reading my posts, and want to respond to today's events, and followup on last nights posting.

So, there you have it....... I feel completely more optimistic. I have been so afraid that I would be injuring my daughter by making mistakes.... but now I have some insight into her mindset, and a team of professionals available to help me.

Lastly, we have some more tests to go through.... we need to see an audiologist, and an optomologist (spelling)....? run some fecal tests to rule out parasites and giardia, see a Pediatric Dentist, and then return to Dr. Aronson in 8 weeks for followup.... In the meantime, she requested that I interview some local Pediatricians to take over as Baylon's Doctors. She gave me some criteria to look for..... find out the patient base, how many of those patients are Internationally Adopted, what hospital they are affiliated with, if they have sick hours, as well as well visit time, and lets see.... there's more, just not remembering quickly enough...... oh, what's their response time for emergency calls, general calls, do they use a service.....hmmn...... lets leave this here for now, my head is spinning.

Now, my biggest decision, is do we bring her upstairs into our room, and place her pack n play there for a bit, do I keep her downstairs...... I'm currently voting to move back upstairs....... # 1 Miss my hubby....... # 2.... It's warmer, VBG ! It's so cold down stairs... that's the older part of the house, and somehow, even though there are two heating systems, the heat down there doesn't warm up, quite like upstairs.... we need some electric heaters down there.

It seems that Baylon is psyched and quite comfy with the days events, as she passed out and never fussed when we lay her down in the pack n' play...... the picture that I placed at the top of this post, was taken just as I began writing... other than the addition of another blanket, nothing has changed.

I do believe that we firmly, undeniably, LOVE, Dr. Jane Aronson.

Thanks to everyone for their advice, calls and emails...... tonight, we stay in the living room for a while..... will figure plot new course in the morning.

12/28/09 11 PM

2009-12-28T22:58:00.000-05:00

Let the games begin .......................... a Mexican Standoff....... ROUND ONE ! or is it two.......???

As Baylon screams, Pirate is burying his head in his favorite toy....... he's just got it in his mouth like a pacifier... maybe he's trying to show Baylon how it's done. I'm right next to Pirate..... not far from Baylon at all.

Okay, can someone please tell me, where my sweet, beautiful, warm, funny, calm, HAPPY baby went????????? She's so overtired.... she's so beyond the beyond, it's all I can do to not run over and pick her up.........

For the whole time in China, our little girl went with the flow. That's more than we could have even asked of ourselves. She, as was all of the other little ones, was the perfect little trooper.

Even the plane ride was pretty much uneventful. We came home, and as I've mentioned before, the crib level was set too high, so we couldn't place her in there, and off to the living room we went for a few hours, me on the couch, and Baylon across from me in her pack n play. We both slept for an hour, initially we couldn't sleep, and didn't fall off till 4 a.m, and then she woke, guess when........... " FIVE" a.m. Oh yeah, that's right......... F I V E A.M...... oooh, I bet I could come up with a few good words to start with those 4 little letters.

Okay, that wasn't so bad, and I'm resourceful....... after all, it was Christmas Day, and I have so much to be thankful for....... okay, well, we had so many people that we couldn't disappoint this wonderful day, the first day home, and it WAS, afterall, Christmas.....so off we went. Once again, Baylon was the PERFECT child, and won the hearts of everyone around her............. when we got home, it was too late to lower the crib, so again, we stayed in the living room, me on the couch, Baylon asleep in her pack n play....... Now I don't remember how much sleep we got, but not enough.... seemed like just when we fell asleep, or let me rephrase that.... just when I fell asleep, she woke up. That following afternoon, the Sun was shining brightly, so beautiful and warm, but I felt so out of sorts, and she was exhausted too, that I just took her into the guest bedroom, next to her brand spanking, BEAUTIFUL newly decorated, newly built, nursery. She and I slept for what seemed forever........ we languished between the sheets for what felt like a delightful eternity............... which brings me to my new problems............ I felt that perhaps I'd made a huge mistake, by bringing her into my bed......but no problem, this night, we'd put her to bed in her crib and all would be well, right as rain....... boy was I wrong.

Last night, Baylon cried for over 2 + hours....... I kept running in and reassuring her every 20 minutes or so.....that was the game plan. I have a monitor on her, and I could see her standing there plain as day, just screaming bloody murder. I was determined to ride this out, and no matter what it took, I was going to reassure her, but not bring her back to my bed..... I had her out, hugged her, changed her, gave her a bottle, but put her back in her crib, and somewhere around 4 in the morning, the crying stopped, but Baylon hadn't fallen asleep.... Baylon was playing, and making all kinds of happy sounds, and with that, I allowed myself to fall off to sleep........ but I made a promise to myself, this was no longer the game plan.

Tonight, I would do whatever it took to make sure my baby is a happy, secure, little camper......

or so I thought. We'd been at Dave's family's house for the entire day, it was a Welcome Home Baylon Party, of sorts....... once again, Baylon dazzled everyone around her. Hard to believe that it was the wee hours of the morning on her little Asian Clock.... she fell asleep in my arms, as the family broke out in the usual Irish Songs......(a family tradition), Dave's family is quite talented in this department, and his Brother Dan, a performer, brought his Banjo, and his Uncle John...... also the performer and a fantastic bagpiper, carried us through an array of wonderful Irish music, both traditional, and originals...... so Baylon who loves music fell, asleep swaying to the tunes, and I placed her safely in another room.... perhaps this was my downfall, I should have kept her up, as "tired", would have been the magic word.

Once home tonight, after a small meal, and bottle, she drifted off to sleep once again in my arms......... oooooh, Dave this couldn't be easier....... till I placed her in her crib, and she like one of those old blow up toys from the 50's that you just can't knock over, sprung up into a seated position..... I swear that girls eyes were CLOSED..... okay, so, we'll start this again, and not diswayed in the least... I brought her back upstairs and this time Dave held her till she fell asleep. Once again in dreamland, Dave attempted to place her in her crib, and as if she got an electric shock, sprung to life...... okay I said, still not forced off track... that's okay, maybe she and I will just sleep in the living room again, and we'll begin this tomorrow........ WRONG...... I've done everything except hold this child.... well that's not true...... I got up, went over to my hysterical baby, and placed her lovingly in my arms....... I wanted to soothe her, and make the tears go away...... tomorrow I'd ask the Doctor what to do, and we'd begin again...... BUT, I have to tell you this....... the second I picked her up, her eyes danced happily, they glanced around the room, and looked up at me as if to say........ SUCKER !!!!!!, she played me like a violin......... and so, I am now holding my ground. This time, I'm in the room with her...... we spent our entire time in China, and she was so independent, she'd play in her crib with the toys that she has now.... only, excuse me, this pile has grown.... more toys...... okay, forget the toys..... she inconsoluble..... , SHE is screaming, as if she was alone in the room. So, not only did she win the battle of not being alone in the room downstairs...... NOW, she's upped the antie...... she's screaming, because she wants to be held.... picking her up right now goes against every fiber in my body.......... it's just wrong. She convinced me a short time ago, that she wasn't that upset at all....... the second I picked her up, GAME OVER !......... Where is the book on this..... okay, a moment of silence..... oh, she's just getting air...... where is the book on this for adopted children. I am absolutely positive this is nothing more than a temper tantrum..... if I truly knew that I'd place her in her bed downstairs, and let her cry and cry, oh yeah, did I say CRY,...... but I can't......... honestly, I think that picking her up, is worse than letting her cry at this point...... so, here I sit, failing terribly at Motherhood.

QUESTION OF THE DAY??????????? Where is the baby reset button..... I want a do-over please !

***********NEWS UPDATE************* the crying has stopped, and she's chatting away..... I actually think I can hear her mocking me.... no, I'm only kidding, BUT, she is FINE !!!!!!!! I bet if I so much as look at her she'll cry..... oh yeah... big mistake. Live and learn............... side note, in the time it took me to re-read this post, she has calmed down, and She's making clicking noises, you know, where you snap your tongue... she's quite good at that...... so here we are, her clicking away, and talking to herself, and me, afraid to look at my own kid......

So, there we have another chapter in the Saga of a new, VERY old Mother...... but you know, I wouldn't change it for a minute...... I've been waiting a lifetime for this little girl, she is, and always has been my daughter. I just so want to make her the bestest, strongest, MOST well rounded individual, I can't afford to make any mistakes, and I do know that isn't realistic and EVERYONE makes mistakes.... but this little being is now our lives..... my life....... and again, I wouldn't change a thing, except maybe the hysterics..... laughter, I'll take laughter......... so I'm signing off now with one exception...... there are 4 hands at this keyboard....... right now, 4 very happy hands...... oh boy do I have questions for Dr. Aronson!!!!!

*************************************************************************************

Somewhere around 2 A.M. 12/28/09

2009-12-28T01:55:00.000-05:00

This picture was taken just a couple of minutes ago.... that was before I placed her on my lap, and before, those very quick little fingers deleted the post I was typing right now....... so with patience at a stand still, I'm not going to retype.......

Baylon is still on China time, and having a very difficult time adjusting.......... so, I'm off to put her back to bed, as she just finished a warm bottle I gave her, hoping this will help send her off to dreamland........ the Saga of a very new, OLD, Mom will continue another time :).

Those Long Awaited Red Couch Shots !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-12-27T22:29:00.000-05:00

Okay........ so here's the complete box set of The Red Couch Shots..... and I will probably take a break from anything China, except our little girl that is. If in my travels through our photos, I find a must "show", picture will definitely post it, but in the meantime, it's onward and upward.

I will be concentrating on the here and now, and can't wait to post pics of Pirate with his new additional crew member. He's is the loving, doting, big furball brother that I anticipated and hoped he'd be...... Chelsea is an opportunist, and I believe she feels that Baylon has to earn her space here..... she's been great, but you can see her wheels turning as to how she will remain Queen of the "Hubbs"...... little does she know, she is allowed to remain the Queen, as the throne has been abdicated to a new EMPRESS !

2009-12-27T22:19:00.000-05:00

Noooooooooo, wait................ you can't fit another here, this is myyyyyyyyyyyy space...... doesn't anybody hear me ??????????????

Hey, Gia, you're freakin' crowding me....... move over, I said move....... MOVE !!!!!
Awwww, come on already.... take the shot ! We got babies cryin' ova heeeeer !
You're not supposed to show the safety netting below........ don't you know anything ?????
Mister Demille, I'm ready for my closeup !!!!!!! Listen, I'm not in the middle for nothin'

2009-12-27T22:08:00.000-05:00

Okay, e-nuff already, that's with a capital E........ where's the stunt double..... cry baby #1 right, you're OUT !

Yeah you buddy, I'm talkin' to you......... just press the button and let's get on with it.
Okay, on the count of three...... blow the razzberies like I showed you.......... 1......... 2......... 2 1/2..

yeah..... whatever....... let's just get this done with k??????

2009-12-27T21:59:00.000-05:00

2009-12-27T21:45:00.000-05:00

The Blessing Of The Babies..... The Buddhist Temple....... There's no stopping us now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Waiting for The Blessing Ceremony

Gotta Getcha Back

First Day Of School...... well "Pre-School" 9/7/11

Hai Dao Ching Shih (the woman) :)

Sunday's Mini Poker Run with friends galore !!!!! 4/9/11

March 22nd...... 2011 Soooo Spring is finally here, or is it ?

First Puppy Match..... 2/6/11 Hai Dao Ching Shih MC

1/18/11 So Proud Of My Boy........ NEW "Therapy Dog" :)

Welcome Hai Dao Ching Shih MC a/k/a Ching Shih (yellow collar)

January 9th, 2011

11/6/10 1st REUNION - CHINA "BO BABY" REUNION, YAY !

10/31/10 My FIRST HALLOWEEN !!!!!!!!

Too Cute !

October 18, 2010 Are Ya 1? Are Ya 2?? YES I'M 2 !!!!!

10/13/10 ONE YEAR AGO TODAY !!! My Life Was Reborn..........

Some Family Shots From The Nationals

September 22nd....... Pirate earns 2 new titles

CA-RAZY Just A Day In The Life Of Baylon

July 23, 2010 Just some random photos............

June 6th, 2010

My Baby's Growing Up 5/18/10

Settling Into Routines

Easter Sunday 2010

March 28, 2010 *Sunday Morning Breakfast*

March 27th, 2010

March 20th, 2010 FIRST DAY OF SPRING !!!!

March 17th, 2010

March 14th, 2010.........

March 13th, 2010

Can't wait to see this film !!!

March 8th, 2010....... 60+ Degrees....... Has Spring Sprung?

Last Day Of February, YAY !!!! 2/28/10

2/26/10

Ahh, let there be SHOES !!!! 2/24/10

Chinese New Years Parade - Marching with FCC 2/21/10

Life Is Good !

2/14/10 And, We're Walking, We're Walkin"

Where's Toodles????.................... "OH TOODLES"........................

2/11/10 The Aftermath Of Blizzard 2010

2/6/10 Nanny's & Poff's visit

Briard Babysitting

2/4/10 Second Play Date A Complete SUCCESS !!!!!!

Back In China... Is It A Bird ......... Is It A Plane..........?? It's BAYLON!!!!!!!

Last Saturday's Play Date

1/24/10 In The End It's All Gone To The Dogs

1/23/10 Our First Cold

Desperate target Haiti’s orphanages January 22nd, 2010

1/21/10 A TASTE OF LIFE WITH BAYLON

What a playdate we had today...............

January 18th..... "15 MONTHS OLD" WOWEEEEE

January 14th, ONE MONTH GOTCHA-VERSARY

January 10th, 2010 One Month Countdown ...... 4 days

1/9/10 Saturday Morning

THANK YOU DONNA :)

Sunday January 3, 2010 Note To Myself

1/2/10 Just Playin' Wid My Big Brodda

1/1/10 What's for dinner tonight ?????????

1/1/10 NEWS FLASH oh and HAPPY NEW YEAR

12/31/09 HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY, HAPPY NEW YEAR WORLD !

12/30/09 Pirate's 2nd Birthday, and Daddy's B'day EVE

12/29/09 What A Difference A Day Makes

12/28/09 11 PM

Somewhere around 2 A.M. 12/28/09

Those Long Awaited Red Couch Shots !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

March 28, 2010 Sunday Morning Breakfast