Just another day on the farm...

Out with the old...

2009-10-02T13:51:00.000-07:00

In with the NEW!! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE go and check out the new blog! The time has come that I must leave this blog and move on to the next. It has been a great run with 'just another day...' but I needed something that will work better with my photography so I'm saying adios!

Please don't forget me, I'm still here just somewhere else. That makes sense, right? So go now, right now www.ashgenephotography.com/blog

Construction: Part 1 'Am I in Hell?"

2009-09-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

Well, construction is in full swing. We have poured the slab and are starting on the walls. If I could describe our life right now in one word I think I'd use 'crazy', well...maybe I'd use 'dirty'. I tried to prepare for this, and I was doing good until the rain came. Oh, the rain. RAIN + DIRT + CONSTRUCTION + 2 DOGS + 2 KIDS = MUD, LOTS AND LOTS OF MUD. I really do think God is getting a real kick out of this, we always said that once we began building Texas's prayers for rain would be answered! I know, I know, we need the rain, I know, I'm trying to put my big girl panties on! Here is a look into our life since construction has taken over...

But the kids are taking lemons and making lemonade!

My very own Black Beauty Story: Sparkle Eyes Returns

2009-09-18T11:47:00.001-07:00

The summer of my freshman year in high-school my mom and me headed to Ft. Worth to "watch" the Paint World horse show and just kinda "check out" the World Paint Auction. The auction is where they sell about 100 qualified Paint horses from all around the US. The day before the auction each hose is taken into the arena and given about 15 minutes to show off for potential buyers. One horse caught our eye, she was a sorrel paint mare, very elegant, long legs, green broke but showed sooo much potential. Well, just "watching" and just "checking out", quickly change to bidding. Within a matter of minutes my mom was bravely flashing her paddle in a bidding war. As the price kept rising my mom looked at me and said "this is it, this is my last bid, if its meant to be we'll get her". So I guess it was meant to be, my mom and I were the proud owners of a four year old Paint mare, name Sparkle Eyes.

I trained and showed Sparkle for 3 1/2 years. We did everything from western pleasure to jumping. My mom and I hauled her all over the state of Texas, and California. We had so many amazing moments. She taught me so much about training a young horse, because of her I was introduced to tons of people in the horse industry that helped me along in my journey. And, I cannot tell you how many days and nights she brought me and my mom together. She gave me and my mom memories together that we will cherish for a life time.

The summer after I graduated high-school I showed Sparkle at the APHA World horse show and won third. What an amazing accomplishment it was to have taken a horse from a youngster all the way up to placing in the top ten at World. Unfortunately that summer would be my last year to show. I was going off to school and Sparkle was too nice of a horse to just keep in the pasture. We made the decision to sell her which at that time was our first horse to ever have to sell. After the show we left Sparkle for the last time with our trainer to be sold. I remember sobbing in the aisle way at the barn as we left her and my mom saying "we dont have to do this, we can take her home".

After she was sold we kept up with her for several years. While at college I drove an hour and a half once a week to go and ride her with her new owner. Unfortunately she was not a great match at her new home and was sold. A few years later we lost track of her.

Several months ago my mom and I got to talking and wondered where Sparkle was and if she was ok. We tracked down her new owner and sent them a letter, but it was returned. My mom however is a genius and looked them up on none other than facebook. Low and behold they still had her. They're story was similar to ours...they're daughter who rode her was going to school and no longer had time for her.

This past sunday, after TEN years, Sparkle Eyes has returned home to us! At 15 years old she is still as elegant as she was at 4. We had our first ride yesterday, it is like she never left.

me and sparkle, 10 years ago.

me and sparkle, the day she came home for good.

Did He or Didn't He

2009-09-16T20:18:00.000-07:00

Okay without further a due, the answer you've all been waiting for...YES, he conquered the wild, Jason Roberts shot himself an Elk!
After sleeping in a tent in 28 degree weather, hiking in 10,000 elevation (good thing he did not come down with altitude sickness), and tracking this bad boy down in over 3 million acres, he got an Elk.
And here he is...

We are calling him Edgar. Have you ever seen the movie Hanging Up with Meg Ryan, Lisa Kudrow, and Diane Keaton? Do you remember how they're dad has a bullet statue that John Wayne had given him and he was always saying, "come on girls, lets go sit with the bullet". Well, now instead of saying lets go sit with the bullet, we will be saying "come of kids, lets go sit with Edgar". Thats right, Edgar's rack, horns, antlers, whatever you call them, are coming home to live with us. I am SO excited. Dont worry I will let you all know when I find a place for Edgar. One hint...it will not be over the mantel.

OK, OK. HE SHOT IT WITH A BOW AND ARROW, HE IS AMAZING!

Its beginning to feel a lot like FALL!

2009-09-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

The sun is out, and the temp is only in the 80's. You know what that means...fall is almost here! I can't wait. Fall is by far my favorite time of year. I love the colors, the crisp air, the PUMPKINS!

After months of nothingness, I have a ton to blog about. First I must to compile my thoughts or its all going to come out as one big blog mess. Coming up on the topic list...'Jason's back from his Hunting Trip: Did he, or Didn't he, shoot an Elk?', 'House Construction: Part 1', 'My very own Black Beauty Story: Sparkle Eyes Returns'. I know, I know, I'm sure you are all on the edge of your seats, and I promise to post more soon!

Her name says it all...

2009-09-03T13:29:00.000-07:00

Sweet sweet baby Joy. I had so much fun photographing this little doll. Just a few days, she was so sweet and tiny, well not so tiny for a newborn...she weighted 9lbs at birth! Joy really was such a joy to meet. Her cute little hands, sweet curly body, and oh the adorable baby feet! I dont think she could be any sweeter. Thank you so much Alison for letting me photography your newest addition.

More of sweet baby Joy

HE will hold the rest

2009-08-29T12:54:00.000-07:00

I think anyone that God has given a heart for adotion will understand where I am coming from in the post. We have all been here before, we have all felt this intense feeling of not being able to do enough. When I came home from Ethiopia, and almost everyday since I have thought of all those faces that were left behind, all those children without medical, without fresh water and food. The children like Bennet that have small medical needs that just cant be met. I feel waves of anger, waves of great saddness, waves of feeling such questioning and doubt. Earlier this week I recieved information of Bennet's birthmother, attached was a picture of her with her beautiful 9 month old baby girl, Bennet's half sister. In the email it said that she was in a great economical problem, only earning .5 cents american money a day. Her baby often gets sick with colds and she cannot provide her with medical care. Today I drove 15 miles down the road, waited an hour and got antibiotics for Ella's ear ache. It leaves me feeling so unworthy, I was complaining today about how long it was taking to get the perscription. This week a large group of orphans being hosted by families in our area, were put back on a plane to go back to Ukraine. Many of these children are unable for different reasons to have forever homes. many of them will grow up in the orphanges and then fall into prostitution, drugs, alcohol. As I look at Bennet and even though I celebrate his life with us and his future, I am so sadened by all the rest. The numbers are just unending it seems. Then today I came home and was reading a blog that often inspires me and I found some rest in what she wrote:

"I am sad and I am angry. Between no sleep and a million doctors appointments (imagine that in Uganda you wait even LONGER in the hospital than you do in the US...) and Bible club on Thursday and Saturday program tomorrow and trying to raise 13 children and spend enough time with each of them, maybe you will right my saddess and anger of as the rantings of an exhausted mother and maybe they are, but this is my blog and I am going to say what I feel like. I am MAD. I have been sad and broken for these children for so long and it has finally turned into a hardened anger. I am angry that this culture so lies to women that Michael's stepmother believes that she does not have to care for this child who is not biologically hers, though she has ample means to. I am angry that in the "Pearl of Africa" and the most fertile region of it at that, a mother has litteraly NO food to feed her baby, not to mention herself or 6 other kids. I am angry that the result of this is that these sweet ones suffer in their innocence. I have said it before and it still holds true: I DO NOT BELIEVE that the God of the universe created too many children in His image and not enough love or food or care to go around. In fact I believe that He created the Body of Christ for just that, to help these little ones, the least of these. And I believe that except for a handful, the Body of Christ is failing. And its not just me who thinks this. When I'm angry, I like to research so that I can at least feel a bit justified in my rage ;) According to several differnt resources, there are an average of 147 million orphaned children in the world today (this statistic includes children who have lost only one parent as well), 11 million children starve to death each year or die from preventable, treatable illness. 8.5 million children work as child slaves, prostitutes, or in other horrific conditions (making things like that cute baby Gap dress Jane wore today...) 2.3 million children world wide are living with HIV.

That is 168.8 million needy children like Michael and Patricia. Seems like a big number, huh? It shouldn't, because there are 2.1 BILLION people on this earth who profess to be Christians. Jesus followers. Servants. Gospel live-ers. And id only 8 percent of those Christians would care for just ONE of these needy children, they would all be taken care of.

And now I'm just sad again. And I want to take care of all 169 million. But as I look into Patricia's eyes, that since just 48 hours ago have turned bright and smiley, as I smell her hair freshly washed with baby shampoo and snuggle her into her new footie pajamas (side note: is their ANYTHING cuter than a baby in soft cotton footie pajamas?!) God tells me that this one is enough. That He will hold the others while they wait for someone to come along and hold them tight and give them their milk and their medicine. That He doesn't ask me to take them all but to stop for the ONE because that one is Jesus, His son. Stop for the little boy with white haid and scabs covering his body, stop for the baby with feces covering her dress, so weak she can't hold up her hear. Stop and take the ones right in front of me any trust Him with the rest. He whispers that it will be ok and that I can smile because tonight 2 less children are hungry and that is good for today.

My anger is gone and I am just a mom who is tired and going to make another bottle and tuck her children into bed and love them the best that I can, as we as a family love the ones God has entrusted us with. Tomorrow I will brainstorm and pray and come up with the best way to take Michael and Patricia back to their homes, possibly find their parents jobs, or supply them with food and medicine. Tomorrow I will remember that they were never mine to begin with, that they are HIS and He will go with them where I cannot. But tonight I will just be. I will just sit with my Father in my sadness and brokeness and anger and ask Him why His innocent children must suffer and beg Him to move people to action and let Him hold me as I hold the baby He has blessed me with for today."

For the Full Story

So today I will try and trust that God is holding the rest until more people are moved to action. And I will celebrate in Bennet's life and be honored that God has given him to me.

Bagley Family

2009-08-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun documenting the Bagley Family. They are all so much fun and easy going. When Connie emailed me about a big family shoot I wont lie, I was a bit nervous. They were the biggest group of adults, minus sweet baby Kaydee, that I had done, not to mention that Robin, Connie and Donnie's youngest daughter, has been my best friend since forever, my roomate in college, my bestest bud! We really did have a great time. It was so cool to see they're whole family together, and getting to be a part of documenting they're family.

Click to see more of the Bagley Family

Wheelock Slideshow

2009-08-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks again Wheelock family, it was such fun shooting your family...with a camera of course!

Wheelock Family

2009-08-25T11:30:00.001-07:00

I met the Wheelocks through my sister, who met the Wheelocks through adoption. They are not only an amazingly beautiful family, they share the same heart beat of adoption. It was so wonderful to see them all together and to see God's work first hand. One of my favorite parts of being a photographer is being able to capture special moments in peoples lives, and I am grateful to have been a part of theirs. Here are just a few...

Summers coming to an end

2009-08-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

Summers almost over...I'm both sad and happy. I cant wait for cooler days, and some structure. But for now, for our last week of summer we are just being bums. We are sleeping in, staying in our pjs, and Ella's favorite... eating way too much junk food. I am swearing off junk food once school begins and determined to get back in the gym. All my hard work is going to mush, literally. Oh and have I mentioned that a miracle has occurred? Bennet has finally gotten into a preschool. Thats right after a year of being on a wait list he has made it! After a year of pretty much zero time in my house without children, my little boy will be heading off two days a week to much needed school time! Yea!

New Coffee table book design

2009-08-15T10:20:00.000-07:00

Super cute new coffee table book design! This one is the same size as the 'classic' album but has a little pizzaz! It can also easily be made to fit the smaller brag book size for grandparents.

Gotcha Day!

2009-08-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

Just one year ago today we held our little Bennet Toufiq-y for the first time. I say 'we' held it was more like I held, if you remeber Bennet wasnt always such a fan of his dad! Wow, how he changed! Bennet has gone from an angry, confused, sad little boy to a wild, loving, outgoing 2 year old. He has been such an unbelievable blessing to this family. I honestly cannot remember life with our him. He is soooooo strong willed, and can sometimes drive me out of my mind but he has the sweetest little heart with the most expressive face you've ever met. Today we celebrated with family, we celebrated Bennet's life, and how he has forever changed this family. We went around and all said what we loved about him the most, the favorites were anywhere from his beautiful eyes, his adventurus spirit (thanks allee) to always ready and willing to play (love those potts). I said my favorite was his snuggles, he gives hugs that will melt your heart. I really cannot believe its been a year since we met him it seems like yesterday that I was in the airport getting 'the call' that we had a son. At the same time it seems like Bennet has always been here, I can't imagine my day with out him.

Our referral pic.

This was taken right after Travis left Bennet with us. 10 minutes later he was out cold, just a little stressful on the little guy.

And here he is last week playing with his two favorite princesses, sorry Ben one day you will kill your Tia!

Warner Bros. 'Orphan'

2009-07-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Warner Bros. new horror movie Orphan proclaims that it must be hard to love an adopted child as much as your own. Let me tell you about how an orphan changed my life.....

As most of you know that read my blog, it started out to document my journey to our son, Bennet Toufiq. Those of you that have read since the beginning know that choosing to adopt has its many ups and down. It is not always the easiest path. The process is long, and uncerntain. There are many fears of the unknown. Will this child fit with us? Will he be healthy? Can I love him as much as I love my daughter? What will my and family and friends think? The list goes on. But at the end of the day we choose to follow God. And he faithfully answered those questions. Somewhere in middle of all my fears, I handed it all over and walked the closest walk I ever have with the Lord. After almost a year and a half of waiting, on Aug. 4th we held our son for the first time. The moment was of course different, but just as special as the first time I held Ella. Being blessed by adoption has changed my life forever. I will forever be changed by the children without families that we met in Ethiopia, I think of them daily. I am changed by seeing a mothers love for her child and the sacrifices they will make for their child's future. I am changed by God's unfailing love for his children. I am changed by the strength and ability a child can have to overcome obstacles and trials. And I am forever changed by this little boy, this 'orphan', that God has chosen for us.

Join me in Defending the casue of the Orphan.... From Tom Davis' blog:
This is the opportunity to defend the cause of the orphan. But instead of cursing the darkness, lets put the truth on display.

Tom is challenging his readers and friends to write 500 positive blog posts about how an orphan has impacted and changed your life. Post this on your own blog so that when people search for the movie, they are flooded with positive messages about adoption and orphan care.

Just finish this sentence: "Warner Bros. new horror movie Orphan proclaims that it must be hard to love an adopted child as much as your own. Let me tell you about how an orphan changed my life..."

This is the heart of defending orphans. Help push back the darkness and deceit here by holding up as an example the powerful love that adoption and orphan care can unleash.

Heres how you can defend the orphan:
1. Write a "positive protest post" on you blog that references the movie, Orphan.
2. Focus on your orphan care or adoption story that is positive, redeeming, and full of love.
3. Link your post to www.tomdavis.typepad.com
4. Send out an email, Facebook message, or tweet to get others to do the same thing on their blogs.

Baby Jackson

2009-07-23T13:53:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneak peak of little boy Jackson's one year old session. This sweet sweet boy couldn't have been a better boy. Seriously he is such a happy boy, big boy... really, he just turned one and is wearing 3T! Me and Jackson's mom, Sarah go waaay back, we used to play barbies in the closet of our condo at the beach for hours together. I cant count on one hand how many summer trips we went on together. She is the daughter of one of my mom's best friends, so it was so awesome to get to take her son's pictures. And let me say she is one braaaave girl, she is expecting her second baby in December! That's right, she'll have two in diapers! Seriously though it will be so great to have them sooo close and to see them so bonded.

Ready, set, go!

2009-07-17T12:42:00.001-07:00

I cant believe it, we are actually doing it! We are actually preparing to start our MASSIVE house addition/remodel. We are still in the planning stages but are hoping to have the slab started by September. Right now we live in my grandmothers old house, right now its cute, and functional but oh soooo small. It was a one bedroom one bath until last summer we turned the garage into a bedroom for the kids. But we are busting at the seams, Jason's closet is now the laundry room, the one bathroom with no bath tub is driving us nuts, and the kitchen/living room could use some TLC. A part of me cant wait to tackle this project and the other half is saying, NO NO NO, we cannot possibly deal with a construction site. Can you even imagine Bennet living around a construction site??? I have nightmares just thinking of it. The dirt, the hammering, the NAILS, the constant people working around my home, wow. I just keep telling myself that the end result will be worth it. oh and did i mention that Jason will be the general contractor? Wish us luck!

Worst Blogger Award

2009-07-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I have been the worst blogger ever. Its just that every time I sit down to write something my mind goes blank. Must be the dog days of summer. Here are some pics of Ella at the beach.

Back from the beach

2009-06-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

We are back from the beach! We all had such a wonderful time. Here are a few of the MANY photos taken. I'm slowly sifting through them all and doing some editing.

These are of my sister's gorgeous family. Seriously, have you ever seen a more photographic family? I would stick out like a sore thumb if I had to be photographed with this group!

what i'm lovin...

2009-06-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

I am lovin my cup of joe. Seriously, such a great time of day. I have coffee twice, both times are completely different. My cup in the morning is more of a wake up, get movin, time to tackle the day kinda cup. My cup in the afternoon is more of a wind down, chill out, nobody talk to me kinda cup. Both cups very different, both cups equally good. I'm lovin my cup of joe!

Bribery...works every time

2009-05-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

Every few months we try our best to get out to the farm and stay for a night or two. It is so nice out there this time of year, before the 100 degree weather hits. We usually go out there to just get away, to mow the always over grown grass, check the horses, and the farm dog Sandy. I still have a couple horses there being boarded so I usually make a quick drive out there once a week to check and make sure they are doing ok, but getting to stay a night is always a treat. It is truly God's country. The rolling hills, oak trees with limbs that touch the ground, a babbling creek, that really great grass that blows in the wind just right. Seriously it really is this nice! The only down fall and the reason we moved is that its a bit off the beaten path, plus it is a ton of work I tell ya. Always grass to mow, fences to fix, usually some sort of water well crisis, you know, typical farming issues!

While there I was able to fit in a quick photo shoot. These days, the minute I pull out the camera my kids seem to magically disappear or turn into little monsters. Seriously, Bennet refuses to look at me when I have it out. So, as any good mom/photographer would do, I resorted to good ol fashioned bribery. You guys act like precious little children while I take pictures of you, I give you some m&m's. It worked like a charm!

Bennet Post

2009-05-22T06:38:00.000-07:00

I realized its been a while since I posted about Bennet, sorry buddy! Well, he is doing sooooo much better in his big boy bed. It took about two weeks of utter hell, times where I was sure I was the worst mom in the world and that I was ruining him completely. I knew that things HAD to change for his sanity and mine so we stayed with the discipline and magically after two weeks of battle, he is sleeping in his big boy bed and going to sleep happily without screaming! That's right people, NO screaming at bedtime and it only took 9 months! Where's my 'best mother' in the world award?

Bennet has been taking swim lessons twice a week with Ella and their cousin Ben. Ella and Ben are doing awesome and should be ready for a fun summer. Bennet is more into dunking his head under and just waiting for the instructor to pick him up. Poor Miss Jessica, nothing like getting a 2 year old to listen to your shenanigans! She's awesome though and really is making some progress. The good thing, well...maybe it not so much a good thing, but he has NO fear of the water, he just jumps right on in!

Other than that, Bennet is doing great, he is a full fledged 2 year old, tantrums and all. We start the morning off saying, "mama, mama" and finish the day off the same way. I swear I hear "mama, mama" more than any other word. This morning even Jason had to tell him to find a new word!

Anyways, the Bredeson's have their court day today so keep them in your prayers. They live really close to us and are adopting a precious little boy, we cant wait to meet him! You can find out more here http://thebredesensandethiopia.blogspot.com/

15 million orphaned by AIDS

2009-05-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

I stole this from Jana and Michael's blog, they are going to be the new in-country reps for Gladney and are moving to Ethiopia very very soon! I am blown away with their story. Go here to read their story http://eyestowardethiopia.blogspot.com/

15 million children, orphaned by AIDS worldwide.

That number is equivalent to the populations of New York, Paris, and Bangkok, combined.

"I believe that this could very well be looked back on as the sin of our generation. I look at my parents and ask, where were they during the civil rights movement? I look at my grandparents and ask, what were they doing when the holocaust in Europe was occurring with regard to the Jews, and why didn't they speak up? And when we think of our great, great, great-grandparents, we think how could they have sat by and allowed slavery to exist? And I believe that our children and their children, 40 or 50 years from now, are going to ask me, what did you do while 40 million children became orphans in Africa?"

--Rich Stearns, President of World Vision

Go here to read an amazing post, http://fullhousehandshearts.typepad.com/my_weblog/2009/05/there-areover-15million-children-orphaned-by-aids-around-the-world-equivalent-to-the-number-of-people-living-in-new-york.html

Then go here http://bottomlysandethiopia.blogspot.com/2009/05/sponsor-needed_15.html to find out how you can get involved and help! Hopechest is an awesome way to sponsor a child, it is a long term way to help a child physically, and emotionally.

Its Official

2009-05-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, Its official, my photography has now moved from hobby to business. Go check out my website, click the link 'website' above in my navigation. Let me know what you think!!

Today might be the day

2009-05-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

Today might be the day that I go officially insane. Jason has been out of town ALL week, so that has left me to tend to two kids, three dogs, cats, plus the 10 horses because our barn help has also been out of town. I've been giving lessons, and trying to help my niece with her new horse, usually getting back to the house around 8 every night. I think last night I finally got a shower around 9:30, I wont even go into how amazing I looked, not to mention the desperate need to shave. Oh, and please may I mention that my considerate neighbor that has 300 acres to run his cattle business on chooses to keep about 200 of his cows in a pen RIGHT next to our house. Last night it was time to separate the babies from their mothers, so you can only imagine what that sounds like, I can barely hear myself think (perhaps thats a blessing). To top it off today is Jason's alumni golf tourn. so he will be gone all day today too!

Lets see, Bennet wakes up around 7:30 and begins saying "momma", he probably says "momma" 1000 times in one day. Since coming home from Ethiopia he has cried EVERY time we put him down for either nap or bedtime. When I say cry, I mean hysterically screams. Now please, no one get all 'adoption issue' on me, he simply hates to sleep, period. We recently thought perhaps he just hates his crib (which he does) so we got him a 'big boy bed' which is now named big boy. Did that help? NO. Is he screaming right now? YES. This too shall pass, this too shall pass, this too shall pass. Right?

Foreplay, what?

2009-04-30T07:12:00.000-07:00

The actor in this video is hilarious, check it out.

Foreplay Redefined from Granger Community on Vimeo.

Sweet Sweet Kenley

2009-04-27T14:29:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went to Houston to visit my good friend Amanda and her precious family. They just moved into a new house, which is beautiful, so we went for a little house warming party! Her newest addition is sweet sweet baby Kenley, I got to take pictures of her as a new born and stole her away for some 6 month old, big girl pics! Is she not a Gerber baby?

Can I Touch Him?

2009-04-22T12:10:00.000-07:00

This is not the first time I've gotten this question, but it still never amazes me that people would ask it. Today me and Bennet were at Jason's Deli grabbing a quick bite when a woman sitting next to him goes to leave and walks up and says:

Stranger: Can I touch him?

Me: What?

Stranger: Can I touch him? (she says it again this time more enthusiastically)

Me: Ummmm, well, (I stutter a bit trying to think of a nice way to put it), No he doesn't like to be touched
(I know, I could have gone with, no he's shy, no he's sick very very sick, but that's what came out, just a plain no)

Now, I know she was just curious but seriously. Bennet is not some kind of pet, to be touched and stared at, he's a little boy. A little boy that had a grilled cheese stuffed in his mouth. A little boy that really doesn't like to be touched by strange people, well maybe just the little boy of a mom that doesn't like him to be touched by strange people. And please don't forget this is coming for a woman that hates to be touched by strangers, remember my hate of doctors, even facials sometimes! I hated that about being pregnant, people always wanting to touch as if it wasn't even my belly anymore, just there for the public to touch! Anyways, I always get a laugh about that question, people so badly wanting to know what his hair feels like, its just hair people! I sometimes forget that Bennet is black and that he looks at bit different than the rest of us in our family so sometimes when people ask things like that it takes a second to register why they might be interested. People never ask to touch Ella, they should, she has great hair!

Hoping down the bunny trail

2009-04-16T13:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from Easter. We spent the weekend at the River house. It was soooo nice and relaxing, we played in the river, ate candy, good times!

Georgia on my mind

2009-04-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

Meet our newest addition, Georgia. She is a 3month old Basset Hound. I have no idea why I got this puppy, we really didn't need another dog, but come on, look at those eye, those ears, I just had to do it. She like most puppies pees 24/7 so all I do is walk around cleaning up after her, love it! She really is too cute for words, and great entertainment for the kids, so I guess she gets to stay!

Don't worry I'm still alive, I didn't die running the 5k! It was really fun actually, we had to wake up at 4am which was less than fabulous but the run was awesome and their were tons of people. I finished 53 out of 357 women, so not too shabby! I think I addicted to races now, they really are fun! Plus we got to run for a great cause, we were raising money that will go into an adoption fund to help families that are trying to bring children home but needing some financial help. We had great shirts and got to spread the word about adoption!

Beat you to the Finish Line

2009-03-29T09:44:00.000-07:00

Next Saturday this will be me. Well, maybe not exactly how I'm going to look but close, real close! My sister and I are running a 5k for adoption next weekend. All the money raised will go to families wanting to adopt but cant afford the process. Its a great idea, organized by a great woman, way to go Jenni. Go here to read more, http://nbrunforadoption.blogspot.com/ I wont lie, I have been running, I'm not super competitive but I don't like completely sucking either. As long as I'm somewhere in the middle I'll be proud. Wish me luck!

Go see it

2009-03-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this yet? If not, go see it now. Before it leaves the theatre, trust me you wont be disappointed, it really is a great flick. Loved it, loved the videography, loved the actors, loved the soundtrack, loved the message, LOVED the group dance at the end during the credits. You all know I love a good group dance. You know, when everyone knows the same dance, somewhat of a line dance if you will. Anyways, go see it!

What I'm loving today

2009-03-25T11:19:00.000-07:00

Seriously, how cute are these prints? It almost makes me want to have another baby just to decorate the nursery. ALMOST was the key word in that sentence.

You can go here to puchase them http://www.belleandboo.blogspot.com/

No Flash Week

2009-03-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

This week is no flash week over at i heart faces. Go see check it out www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com

Have you had your Daily Candy

2009-03-24T08:02:00.001-07:00

Have you had your Daily Candy???

This is one of my favorite sites, http://www.dailycandy.com/everywhere/

Probably because its a one stop blog to get your fix of art, beauty, fashion, you name it, plus you can narrow it down to cities, to bad they dont have mine listed!

Plus it has these adorable graphics which I absolutely love love love!

Scrub a Dub Dub

2009-03-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

Two kids in a tub...

I did say that it was time for some spring cleaning...trust me, they fall into the category!

Little Tree

2009-03-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

Heres the thing...I think that I have some great gifts, but one thing that I just can't seem to get good at is keeping my poor, poor, potted plants alive and healthy.

Exhibit A:

This is my sad little rosemary tree. Her name is 'little tree' (thanks Ella), she started out as a healthy, happy, fully green tree, happily thriving at Lowes. Me and Ella purchased her brought her home and now just look at her. Brown, dying, sad but still holding on. She's a fighter! I've tried to blame it on a fungus, that she really wasnt all that healthy to begin with but the truth is that I just didnt give her water. Thats right, I starved little tree until she was brown and half way dead, I am ashamed. Lowes shouldn't be allowed to sell me anymore plants.

Ella told me today that she really needs water to be happy. I gave her a big glass and literally heard her sigh with relief! Maybe this spring i'll be a better gardener to little tree...and all the others, unfortunately I have Exhibit B, C, and D.

Spring Time

2009-03-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

Something about spring time always brings out the 'spring' cleaner in me. Today I spent the morning cleaning out the kids closets, going through toys and clothes. I'm sure that now that I have put away their winter clothes we will get another cold snap, its just the way it goes. Every year during hay bailing time the minute we get the bails on the ground it starts to rain, go figure! I do love the feeling of knowing that all the kids toys are in their proper places and that all their clothes is hung in order, it just makes me feel good. Now, I'll try and not get too attached, I'm sure by this evening all will have gone a muck and Bennet will have pulled down his clothes and Ella will have gone through all her toys and put them where she thinks they belong, but for now we have order. People that know me wouldn't call me a clean freak or well organized however deep down there is a clutter phoebe just waiting to get out, and today she is peeking through!

Green Week

2009-03-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Its green week at www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com go check them out!

Creative Crop Week

2009-03-10T18:39:00.000-07:00

Creative crop week at www.iheartfaces.blogspot.com go check it out! These were my entries of Ella is an Ethiopian outfit that I brought back for her.

Beauty Shop

2009-02-28T18:04:00.000-08:00

So this evening out of no where me and Jason decided it was time for Bennet to get a hair cut. He has gorgeous hair but it has gotten a bit out of control, and he wont let me touch it sooooo we decided it was time for a 'trim'.

Here he is before I got my hands on him. Poor guy, all happy, non assuming, totally trusting his mommy!

Here he is after I got my hands on him. Its kind of hard to see but this is Bennet looking like Mr. T with a rockin Mohawk. At this point I realized I had absolutely NO business doing this to him and we needed to send him to an emergency Barber Shop. I of course was too embarrassed of what I had done to his beautiful locks so I sent him with his father and said it was only fitting for his daddy to take him to his first hair cut. When Jason got to the Barber Shop they were closed, he proceeded to bang on the door and then beg for them to take pity on him. After seeing what his white daddy did to his beautiful African hair they let them in. One lollie pop later and Bennet's a new boy...

My Little Nail Painter

2009-02-26T13:05:00.000-08:00

My sweet neice, Katya, and my sweet nephew Ben came over today. During lunch I randomly asked Katya what she wanted to be when she grew up, this is what was said...

Me: Kayta, what do you want to be when you grow up?

K: I'm not sure, maybe a horse teacher like you.

very sweet, great answer Katya. then i ask Ella.

Me: Ella what do you want to be when you grow up?

E: Ummmm, I want to be a nail painter.

So what I have learned from the conversation is that unlike most kids, wanting to be a firefighter, teacher, doctor, etc, my little Ella wants to be a nail painter. Maybe not a high achiever that one! She must take after her mother and there is nothing wrong with not wanting to be a doctor or firefighter, the world needs pretty nails!

B&W WEEK

2009-02-23T14:40:00.001-08:00

Here is my adult entry. Its my VERY photogenic sister and her daughter.

And my kid entry, Bennet licking his lips!

Make sure to go to http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/ for other great entries!

24 FEVER

2009-02-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

PLUS

EQUALS

Saturday Nights!

We are completely addicted to 24. We always plan on just watching one episode but end up watching about three. We are exhausted the next day but just cant seem to stop, we really are addicted to Jack Bauer, Kiefer has never been better!!

Something to think about

2009-02-20T11:34:00.000-08:00

If you took all the orphans in the world and lined them up, single file, they would wrap around the world TWICE. That many children without mommy's and daddy's. Makes me wonder, what more can I do, in what ways can I help change the orphan crisis?

WONDER

2009-02-16T06:41:00.000-08:00

The theme is WONDER this week at www.iheartfaces.com, go check out all the beautiful faces!

This is a photo of my long time friend Amanda and her sweet baby. Theres nothing that brings out more wonder than a mothers hope for their child.

This is a photo of Ella, it is sooc, i just didnt think it needed anything. I love the reflection, she was just sitting, having a moment. Maybe she was day dreaming of princesses, maybe saddened by the summer coming to an end.

So jealous...

2009-02-13T18:49:00.000-08:00

How cool would it be to be going about your day and this breaks out. Damn, I wish this would really happen to me.

Little miss Ella

2009-02-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a mother just gets sentimental about their kiddos and this evening was one of them. Ella and me spent the evening doing Valentine stuff for her party tomorrow and I am just amazed at how quickly she is growing up. Amazed at how lucky I am to be her mother, to get to share her life with her. So here are some things I love about my little Ella Dora (just to name a few):
1. I love how when I put her to bed, nap or at night, she must have exactly three kisses from me.
2. I love that she makes sure to tell me that they need to be the 'normal' kisses not 'fish' lip kisses.
3. I love how well she has adjusted to being a big sister. She has never missed a beat. Never did she go through a phase of wanting to send him back or acting out. '
4. I love how she takes life in stride like that. I will say she got that from me, that part of me has always served me good, and I love seeing it in her.
5. I love her lion colored eyes. They are the same as her daddy's.
6. I love her skinny little body, no hips, no curves. She also got that from me, I hated it growing up but have come to appreciate it greatly.
7. I love when she comes in to our bedroom in the morning and cuddles in. Her feet are always freezing, and she's always ready to chat!
8. I love how much she loves Annabelle, she calls her Princess Annabelle, and insists to all others that she REALLY is her sister. (annabelle is our weiner dog)
9. I love when she really in to something, she says its 'supper dooper cool'. she always adds that 'dooper' to it!
10. I love that even at 4 years old she has a best friend. He always loyal, always there to play, she loves her cousin Ben. They are two peas in a pod.
11. I love when she asks me if she has a twinkle in her eye and then goes through everyone else to see if they have a twinkle in their eyes.
12. I love her beautiful blonde hair that has this big side part that always falls perfectly over her face.
13. I love love love being her mommy, what a gift it is.

So there you have it. I love my little girl, what can I say!

PLEASE READ

2009-02-10T09:38:00.000-08:00

I stole this post from the Bottomly's blog. They have organized an online group through Children's Hope Chest to sponsor an orphanage. Ethiopia is a somewhat new country to their organization so they are working on getting evertyhing up and going, but in the meanwhile many of these children are suffering.

Adoption is an amazing thing, but I think it leaves you always questioning, what about the rest? What about all the children that are not adoptable, that are needing basic needs such as food? It is heart breaking, it makes you feel helpless.

This is the most recent post from Tom Davis.

URGENT! Help Feed Hungry Kids in Ethiopia and Swaziland

Friends, I need your help this month to deliver 120,000 meals to Ethiopia and Swaziland. The food situation in both countries is dire, and I'm asking you to help today with a gift.

Last month, Children's HopeChest walked right into the food crisis in Ethiopia. While I was leading a team in Swaziland, I received this urgent message from our staff in Ethiopia:

Tom, I've just gotten back from Moses' Children's Home here in Ethiopia. Their needs cannot wait and the food situation is beyond critical. I'm doing what I can to get food to the kids, but we need money right away to secure regular food for the next few months. If not, many of the kids here will risk starvation. Please help.

Moses' Children's Home is one of the orphanages in line for sponsorship (Through US, the online community!!!) Until two months ago, private funding was supporting this work. Now, those funds are gone, and the kids are hungry.

I was in Swaziland in January, and it's the same story there. So many hungry kids. We're launching several new carepoints, and want to make sure they are set up for feeding as many kids as possible.

Children's HopeChest has crafted rapid intervention to get food to Ethiopia and Swaziland. Here's the plan and how you can help:

$3,125 is needed immediately to send 20,000 meals to Ethiopia. This food is bound for Moses' Home, Abenezer's Home, and some of the orphanages where Ryan Brown and Gladney are working.

An additional $10,000 is needed to purchase a container to ship 100,000 meals to Swaziland for use in the CHC carepoints there. The container will remain in Swaziland and our staff will use it as a storage container for ministry items.

$13,125 for one container and 120,000 meals.
Can you help us?

Use the DONATE link below to go directly to the giving page.
Put "FEBRUARY FOOD PROJECT" in your note.

If you are interested in Donating go to https://secure.pursuantgroup.net/pursuant4/hopechest/chcselect/donation.asp

The Eyes Have It!!

2009-02-02T13:16:00.000-08:00

Heres to another week at This week is 'all about the eyes' and pet week 'anything goes'

Go check out all the other amazing photos at http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/

What about Ella??

2009-01-29T11:59:00.001-08:00

And here are some of my little princess

Speechless Wednesday

2009-01-28T12:10:00.000-08:00

Joy

2009-01-26T18:34:00.000-08:00

Week 3 of I Heart Faces contests! Go check out this site: http://iheartfaces.blogspot.com/

Bennet, after 30 days of being home from Ethiopia! Joy was beaming from his little smile while he was experiencing the fun of playing with a garden hose!

I'm back

2009-01-12T11:27:00.001-08:00

I know, its waaaaay past Christmas so that cant be my excuse for my lack of posting but i just haven't had much to say. Christmas was great, and we're in 2009, wow does time fly! I'm really working on getting in shape this year, cliche I know, but seriously it needs to happen. I'm really blessed in the fact that I dont struggle with weight but the muscle tone is completly a different story. I went to the barn after Christmas, rode a couple horses and then had to sit on a heat pad for three days. Not because my back was broken and it didnt heal, I wish i could blame it on that, but really just because I am totally out of shape! So, Monday, Wednesday and Friday you will find me in the gym!!

This weekend I got to hang with my girlfriends at the river house. It is always full of fun, food, wine, and laughing. Seriously the laughing is out of hand, so much that usually i'm in tears at some point. These girls (i cant seem to make the transition to using the words, ladies, women, etc when referring to them, i guess i still think we're 18) are seriously funny, and we're all a tad bit crazy which really comes out when were all together. The weekend was great. We had one small issue...Me and my friend Liz acidentally took some Advil which ended up being Advil PM at about 5 in the afternoon. We then decided to drink about a pot of coffee to try and reverse the effects, then ended in a panic attack and the shakes. So, note to self: Always check the bottle before popping pills, apparently labels are important.

We have a 2 year old!

2008-12-18T18:27:00.000-08:00

Last Wed. Dec. 10th Mr. Bennet Toufiq turned 2! Honestly he had a really crappy actual bday, we had to take him to the doctor to get shots. I know, what a mean mommy, but it was the only apt. they had for a really really long time. He was a trooper though.

That Sat. we had a party for him and totally made up for it. It was animal themed and we had cookies, and cake, balloon animals, presents. What could be better!

He is definitely a two year old. Fits and all. He loves to tease his sister and then follow that up with a little tap which sends her into a screaming fit, "MOM, Bennet HIT ME AGAIN". I hear that phrase about fifty times a day. He loves to touch everything he's not supposed to, over and over again. He likes to run and hide under our bed when he has a dirty diaper. Yep, we have a two year old! He is such a funny boy though, he makes us laugh daily and love loves loves his momma. He follows me from room to room saying "mama" over and over. He is such a cuddle bug and give the best bear hugs ever! He's only been home for four months but it seems like forever.

On a different note, we had to put our dog Ralph down last week. He almost ate another one of Ella's cats. I mean he was a second too late. He has been on this major animal killing spree lately, including catching and killing a vulture. That's right, the dog caught a bird that was equal in size and killed it. WOW, so gross. The last straw was when he growled at Bennet. He was sleeping but bennet thought he should wake up, apparently Ralph disagreed. Jason and I really struggled with this decision and have gone back and forth but we just didn't feel safe with him around the kids anymore. And we just weren't willing to risk it. Jason took him to the vet last Friday. It was a sad day and still seems weird not seeing him in the yard. He has been such a pain in the ass the last five year, but we've really loved that Ralph A Roo Roberts, there will never be another one like him.

Lastly, the family that has lived in the barn apartment are moving to Florida. They have been with our family for the past 8 years and have been far more like family than employees, renters, or even friends. The barn and Sahalee is going to be so different without them. They have a little boy that is Bennet's age who is such a doll. He was born here, and Becha and Johnny were married here. There is so much history and we will all really really miss them. Ella said "but mom, our family is going to be so small without them" She couldn't have said it better.

2008 has been such a year of change. We moved, went to Africa, was given a son. My dad had a heart attack, and was blessed with more time with us. My sister moved here as well (we all live on my parents ranch), she was out of the country for a 5 weeks and brought home two sweet young ladies making me an aunt to five! Now Becka and Johnny are leaving, along with our office help whom has been with us for 10 plus years. It really makes me take a step back and thank God for all our blessings, big and small, for all the amazing people that have blessed our life.

Now its time to get ready for Christmas, Ella is counting down the days!!!

Changes for Ethiopia Program - EDITED

2008-12-03T06:36:00.000-08:00

As many of you heard Ethiopia is changing their policies on Single parent adoption. I feel so terrible for those that are waiting, that are in the process, that now run into this road bump. With that, I came across this blog that has written an entry that I completely agree with. I think she really puts a good reality to people's own insecurities. Go check it out. Its a bit of a contravertial topic so beware! http://expandingalbertsons.blogspot.com/2008/10/battle-against-legalism.html - here is the link that will take you to the right entry!

So many things to be thankful for...

2008-11-30T12:45:00.000-08:00

I cant believe that Thanksgiving is over and Christmas is here, wow that went by fast!!! We had a great Thanksgiving. We all stayed out at our old home, which is now being used as a family place to enjoy! My mom and me have been busy redoing it and making sure everyone had room and there were beds for the crew we have these days. With my sister's new additions and ours we have 7 kids and 6 adults (we are now out numbered), so beds are usually an issue and we are typically all spread out on blow up beds. This year we got smart and had bunk beds made, so all the kids except for Bennet slept in the same room. It really went waaaaaay better than expected getting them all to sleep. We also converted an old barn into a big dinning hall, last year the weather was terrible so we had 17 people crowed into our living room, it was totally out of hand. This year we got smart! Besides my mom getting a terrible cold, we all had a great time. We have so much to be thankful for this past year. It really has been a year of blessings. From bringing Bennet home, my father surviving a heart attach, my sister bringing her two girls home, and every small little blessing along the way, it really has been an amazing year. Now my tree is up, and we're getting ready for Christmas! I plan on taking things slllllooooow and really enjoying the holidays. I want to drink hot chocolate with the kids during the day and have red wine with Jason and friends at night. I look forward to the holiday parties, Christmas music, baking, eating, wrapping presents and all the wonderful things that with celebrating Jesus birthday!

Kinley Pics

2008-11-19T14:41:00.000-08:00

I know, I've been a really bad blogger but honestly I just haven't had much to say, life has been pleasantly boring!

My sis is home with all her kids in tow, they are adjusting to life as a family of SEVEN. Steph is homeschooling the girls (besides allee) and has been busy with that. On Tuesday's she watches my two while I give Katya and Nastya horse lessons. They are doing SOOO well, they are very naturally athletic and balanced, plus Nastya is animal obsessed which always helps! I was a bit worried at how I was going to teach someone that could speak english but its been fine, like a fun game of charades! It really has been a great way to bond with the girls on my own turf and be able to help in their journey through the amazing power of horsey love!

As for little miss Ella and mr. Bennet, they are doing great! Each day I see them bond more and more. It is so nice to hear Ella say that she has missed her brother the whole day (while at school). It is also so nice to see Bennet hug on her and her hug back instead of give a look of, 'who does he think he is'. Bennet is also being babysat once a week by my cousin who is going to school at SWT. She has been such a blessing, it is so nice to know that he is in good hands and is being well loved on while I get a little bit of sanity back. I tell you its been a bit of an adjustment for me, going from three days a week of childcare, to none! Bennet has also grown so so so much, he is three, yes, three inches taller (thats been in three months) and grown two shoe sizes! I suppose its all the eating he does. Wow can the boy eat!

This past weekend I got to meet my best friend's newest addition to her family, a precious little girl named Kinley. She is so so sweet. I am trying to get into photography and would love to eventually have my own business going so this was a perfect time to get some baby picks! I think they turn out pretty good! Thanks Kinley for your help! This weekend we are going to Houston to Kinley's baptism and my mom will be keeping Bennet for us, we'll see how he does without us for a night!

Potts: a new family of FIVE

2008-11-04T08:43:00.000-08:00

My sister is now the mother of FIVE!!! They arrived in San Antonio late Sunday night after two days shy of five weeks, wow thats a longgggg time away from home and kids!!! The girls seem excited to be home and were so excited about their new room with all their new clothes! They quickly got out their pics and started to decorate!

Trick or Treat

2008-11-02T16:42:00.001-08:00

Wow. I forgot what a whirlwind Halloween weekend can be! We kicked it off with Ella's school's Halloween carnival that they have every year, even when I went there. I remember the haunted house in the cafeteria, with grapes as eye balls, spaghetti noodles as brains, and my mom dressing up as a witch, cackle and all. This year was no different and I felt it only fitting that I dress up as a witch. I know, I know mom, my costume wasn't hand sewn and I didn't have a black tooth but all and all I think I made a great witch! I held down the bean bag toss! That evening we did some trick or treating, ate tons of candy, the adults had stew, and the kids played Ghost in the Grave Yard with flashlights! It was really a fun night! Then the next day it carried over into Ella's ballet class where they got to dress up again and get more candy. I can wait til Monday when some of her candy disappears while she's at school. I wonder what happened to it???? I would never throw away perfectly good candy.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

Another wonderful thing to do with pumpkins...the pumpkin patch! What is it about these vegetabbles that make them such a crowd favorite. I cant put my finger on it. Is it their perfectly round little bodies, they're bright shades of orange, their sweet but not too sweet flavor, what is it? There is just something about a pumpkin that just makes you feel good! We had a great time at the pumpkin patch. We painted faces, painted pumpkins, rode a hay ride, and went through a maze, made of maze in the shape of Texas! Bennet was a crowd favorite, as he is these days in any crowd! He has turned into a huge ham, loves any attention that he can get! His new favorite is dancing. He likes to role it, with his arms and makes sure someone is watching to cheer him on!

Tagged

2008-10-17T10:57:00.000-07:00

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Ok, I have been tagged by Erin, and Shasta, I know its taken me forever, so here it goes...

1. When I was about 12 years old I had really really thick hair that my mom let me spiral perm a few times so as you can imagine it was VERY poofy. Well I started hating my thick hair and asked my mom to cut it with thinning scissors. So she got to chopping and before I knew it she had gotten a little out of hand and thinned a chunk of hair on my forehead. For months I had only half of a bang, that we called feathers. It was not a good look.

2. In highschool I was very unmotivated and hated school. I especially hated math and really sucked at it. My mom got me a tutor that would come to our house after school. Me and my friend Liz would hide from her in my parents office and watch out the window until she left. I would then tell my mom that she never showed up. I cant wait for the payback I get when my kids grow up!

3. When I eat things like, raisenettes, cheerios, m&ms, etc I have to eat two on the left side of my mouth and then two on the right. Its a little ocd but its just how I like to do it!

4. I took ballet from the time I was 4 until I was 13. I wanted to be a professional ballerina until I got on point. It hurt soooo bad and was soooo hard that I quit. Now Ella takes ballet and I secretly wish I could take classes again but I think I missed that boat already!

5. I deeply believe that I have really pretty feet. Apparently I have told a few people, when I graduated a friend of mine that had been my hair dressers since i was little, secretly took a pic of my feet, blew the pic up and had it framed for me. My roommate and I hung it in our dorm along with a life size pic of our friend that went to a different college.

6. My favorite season is Fall. I love the colors of fall, the cooler air, pumpkins, boots, etc.

7. Along with Fall, I am obsessed with pumpkins. I love to decorate with pumpkins, make pumpkin pie, pumpkin soup, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin pancakes. When I lived in College Station there was this ice cream place that made pumpkin ice cream every fall. I literally went there everyday. I have considered going there and buying a few gallons but am concerned it will melt on the drive back. I'm really going to have to give that some thought.

On a different note, my sis is officially the parents of two little girls!! They made it through court this past Monday and now they just wait for paperwork and then they can come home, yea!!!!

He never learns...

2008-10-06T16:09:00.001-07:00

Poor Ralph...perhaps he will think twice before tangles with a porcupine. I'm pretty sure its 1 to 0 porcupine in the lead!

40 days

2008-09-29T14:31:00.000-07:00

We have been home as a family for 40 days!!!! Sometimes it feels like we've been a family of four forever and sometimes it feels brand new.

Our 'gotcha day' with Toufiq was a bit different than many Gladney families, the in country staff had people coming in that morning so Toufiq was hand delivered to us in our hotel room. He was soooo scared the first day. He didnt make a sound, sat ONLY on my lap, wouldnt look at Jason or my parents. He was so tired from the shock of leaving his caregivers, meeting us, being in a new environment that he fell asleep on our bed after about thirty minutes of meeting him. When we changed his diaper, clothes, etc he screamed. He was REALLY attached to his shoes that he got from the orphanage and freaked out when we took them off, all we can think is that sense they do not have much (toys, clothing) they are super attached to the items they have. I know I sound really mean taking his shoes and all but...we replaced them with really cool alligator crocs that he LOVED. After day one he remained extremely quite, he would wake me up in the morning just staring at me. He didnt cry, didnt talk, laugh, play, nothing. He just sat, and watched, taking everything in. Towards the middle of our trip he began to throw fits, hit, gave the dirtiest looks you've ever seen (seriously, if looks could kill), he seemed very angry. His physical development was behind as well. He was very uncoordinated, couldnt run, fell every few steps while walking, couldnt climb stairs. Then there was the issue with him and his daddy. Toufiq had NO time for Jason until about day 8 when he finally decided that he would at least look at him. Since we knew that I was going to have to leave Jason there with him due to our paperwork issues we were forced to try and bond them quicker than I would suggest. We tried leaving Jason alone with him in the room, he screamed the whole time! We tried having Jason do everything for him, feed him, change him, bath him. By about the tenth day the walls began to fall. He was starting to play, laugh, and smile. He was liking, not loving but at least tolerating his dad. The day I left them I was so concerned that it would take him back a few steps, I was worried he would feel like someone else was leaving him, it was hard. When Toufiq got home he went back into his shell for the first few days. He was tired, scared, sick of change, not sure about our animals, about his sister, the Potts, life in general was just really tuff for him. The first week I slept in Ella's bed next to his crib, he woke up waaaaayyyy too early and many times through out the night.
Now, 40 days home and Toufiq is doing so good. He is a completely different child. He and his sister are great buddies! He has grown an inch and a half and gained 3lbs. His coordination is so much better, he climbs like a billy goat. He runs and even jumps on the trampoline. He is starting to say tons of words, such as bird, Ella, Daddy, Mommy (he's had that one down!), and of course NO (love this one). He is trying to figure out what noises all the animals make but thinks they all say ROOOOAAAAR like a lion - even the horses! He is trying to parrot everything, a little sponge just soaking it all up. He is sleeping in his and Ella's room. He wakes up sometimes during the night but goes back to sleep in a few minutes. He does still cry at night when going to sleep, its been our biggest battle. He really hates going to bed at night. He is napping once a day and is doing that well. It is so nice to have him home and on a schedule. That was so difficult in Ethiopia, not having a plan or a schedule, kids really need that. He doesnt give the dirty looks near as often, only when really tired. He will offer up kisses and hugs anytime you ask, sometimes when you dont! He is really so so sweet. He is always concerned if Ella cries and is so gentle with her and our animals. I just cant say enough of what a difference a few weeks can make with love, routine, good food and tons of kisses and attention! WOW! He does need a lot of affirmation that he is a good boy. When he gets disciplined he really needs a lot of love afterwards to know that you still love and approve of him. He is also really obsessed with food and freaks out when you take it away or when its gone. I guess he doesnt think he will get it again, or maybe the boys just really loves to eat. I feel him!

On a different note, my sis and bro-in law are leaving tomorrow to get there girls from the Ukraine, it will be a long 5 weeks but so exciting! Also my dad is doing great, he is home and back to his old self again!!!

Whirlwind...

2008-09-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

Wednesday morning I got a call from my mother saying that she was headed to the hospital with my dad who was complaining that his back and jaw were hurting. Thirty minutes later she called saying that he was having a heart attach and that they were preparing to air flight him to a heart hospital in San Antonio. Luckily he is fine. He got a stint put in and is lucky not to have to have bypass surgery. Today he is feeling great and ready to play golf he says! What a scare this was. My dad is such an important part of this family, he does so much for all of us. I look out on this beautiful land that he has taken so much pride in and cant imagine him not being a part of it anymore. Now he has a new grandson and two new granddaughters coming home soon. God was really watching out for him. Thank you to all our friends that continue to poor out the love and support and prayers!!!

On a happier note, my sister and bro-in-law are leaving Tues. to go to the Ukraine for FIVE weeks to pick up their girls!! The girls do not know yet, they will surprise them when they arrive. Can you imagine their faces when they see they're Momma, and Poppa?!? I can't imagine not knowing the feeling of a family and cant imagine the feeling of getting one at the age of 9 and 12, wow!

Three Little Princesses

2008-09-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

Oh Ben, I sure do love you!! Sorry Zach but he begged for it, shoes and all!

Happy Birthday Baby!

2008-09-22T06:50:00.001-07:00

Four years, nine months ago, I found out the most life changing news. I learned that I was pregnant with my little angel Ella. My story is not that 'perfect' picture of how your supposed to do things but then again anyone that knows me knows that I usually do things a bit differently than most. At the time I was living in College Station, working as a Real Estate agent, living with three college students. Jason and I were carry on a long distance relationship and never expected to become parents. We were both living lives that were not focused on God, we were focused on ourselves. I was happy, sad, feeling a ton of loss, and a ton of gain at the same time. It was very confusing, hard, embarrassing, and humbling. Never in all my life would I have thought that it would have worked out this way. Through this unexpected turn, Jason came to know Christ, we have been happily married (most the time, haha) for almost 4 years, we have a wonderful daughter, and now a wonderful son. God is so faithfully when you trust in him. What a wonderful blessing, Ella's surprise was to us.

Ella is such a blessing to us. She is such a bright, cheerful, funny little girl. She amazes me everyday with her humor, her kind heart, her 'adult like' vocab and how well she has slipped into her big sister role! I am so proud of her. I wish that time would stand still and she would stay 4 forever. I have never realized how important each day is until recently, what a blessing time is. So, happy birthday angel!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLA!!!

A Wedding and a Hurricane

2008-09-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

This passed weekend was a whirlwind of a weekend. One of my dearest friends got married, Ella was the flower girl (a job she took very seriously) and I was a bridesmaid. Em was supposed to get married in Houston but due to Hurricane Ike, she was forced to move the wedding to Dallas and find new vendors, flowers, church, reception all in about 48 hrs. Em is such a trooper! The wedding turned out really nice and was soooo much fun, a little too much fun if you know what I mean! Ella was a stunning flower girl and waved like a celebrity the whole time by the alter! That's my girl! At the wedding Em had a photo booth set up, you could take as many as you wanted, it printed two copies, one was for you and one was put in a book for the bride and groom. It was such a cool idea. Ella took around 100 photos! She was on a first name basis with the photo booth guy. Bennet was in attendance and was such a ham. I was really concerned with how he would do with so many people but he was fine, he did all his tricks, the boys got a mad wink! I am so glad that this weekend was such a success for Em and Derek they are such wonderful people that really deserved a special night for just them. Congrats Em, I love you! (not that you'll be reading this b/c your sitting on a beach somewhere in Hawaii-slut!) Can I say slut on my blog?

All is well

2008-09-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

I know, I know I've turned into one of those terrible bloggers that never updates and really I have no excuse, I suck! Mr. Bennet is doing fabulous, he is really coming out of his shell! He loves, loves, loves his daddy. I knew he would. He does his sheepish grin when Jason gets home and has really gotten into the wrestling that goes on every evening between Jason and Ella. He does a belly flop on top of Ella with Ella on top of Jason. I'm not so much the wrestler, more the cheerleader type! He is trying to say a few words, not a lot but a few. He's got Momma down! Yesterday Ella started Ballet, he watched through the window and yelled ELLA ELLA ELLA over and over while pointing! He loves the animals, loves to talk about the animals, look at the animals, but not so much touch the animals. Our wiener dog is sure that he loves to be kissed on the face, he squeals and gives her dirty looks! Speaking of dirty looks...things are not all rainbows and lollipops around here. If wronged he can give some pretty mean, go to heck looks. He is really trying to figure out the concept of sleep. I dont think we've had both kids a sleep before 9 since we've been home, plus he likes to get an early start on the day which I am NOT a fan of! I am trying to adapt to having two and staying home with one full time. Before Bennet came home I had M,W,F to run errands, ride, do laundry, etc all without children so this is an adjustment. I continue to pray for patience and energy and the ability to stay sane and fun! We got back all Bennets blood work, poop checks, etc and all is good! He has become waaaay more active and is becoming more coordinated. I am really enjoying watching this little guy grow and learn. There are sooo many first that we get to experience with him, so many things that we get to teach that we take for grated. He loves to sing songs, is obsessed with dancing and has really good rhythm unlike the rest of us. He likes to play patty cake, sort shapes, swing, is pretty much content doing anything and everything!

This weekend we are going to Houston. One of my best friends, and roommate from college is getting married. I'm a bridesmaid and Ella is the flower girl. She is so excited she can barely stand it!

Also-I know your checking out that fabulous cuff that Bennet is sporting. It was made by Tara go here to get one... http://www.littlesilvestriboy.blogspot.com/ it looks so handsome on him, thanks Tara!

First A&M Game of the Season = First Big Family Breakfast

2008-08-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

In honor of the first Aggie game of the season, oh wait, maybe it was in honor of our entire (new and old) family together, or perhaps it was in honor of my sis turning the big, old 30. Whichever, we had a kick A breakfast this morning! My parents have an awesome outdoor kitchen where they made everyone pancakes with real maple syrup, sausage, bacon, eggs, orange juice, apple juice, coffee, you name it! While the food was cookin the kids played yard games. It was fabulous. We are SO blessed to be so close and have this amazing family that just continues to grow. We are letting the good times role and are following this morning up with horseback riding this evening followed by a birthday party tomorrow after church. Then Monday my uncle and his family are coming over to met they're newest cousin! What a great way to role into September!

Cousin Benny

2008-08-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

Cousin Ben is four years old and had some confusion about his new cousin Bennet...Ben says "Tia, if Toufiq hurts himself will he bleed red?" I reply, "Yes, he will in fact bleed red." I love those Potts, they always have some really good questions!

My Favorite Models!

2008-08-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

Things are going pretty well so far as a family of four. Bennet was sick yesterday and feeling pretty ruff but today he is fever free and feeling much better. We braved church this morning, he did great, almost made through the whole service! We have a ped. appointment for Bennet on thurs. which I'm looking forward to. I want to get him checked out and feeling good! I will post soon about our trip, I have so many things to write about but haven't gotten all my thoughts together yet. More to come...

THEY MADE IT!!

2008-08-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

They are finally home! What a wonderful day!!!! After an extremely difficult journey, Jason and Toufiq are finally home! Jason said that Toufiq slept for about 6 hours of the journey and cried the rest. He went through three sets of clothes, due to some very dirty diapers, which I'm sure was amazing to change on the plane. The first class flight attendants were less than pleased to have them in their section. But...WHO CARES...they're home! It took Toufiq about five minutes and then he warmed back up to me. He loves his sister and she is thrilled to have them home. Last night went fairly well. He went to bed at 8 and woke up at 5, so all and all not too bad! I will write more later. Thank you so much for all of those that have had us in their prayers, it has been such a long journey bringing him home and we are just so blessed and overjoyed to have this little boy in our lives.

Almost home!

2008-08-19T06:46:00.000-07:00

Here is an email that Jason sent yesterday about his Embassy appointment:

So me and Belay were at the Em. today. We waited and waited and then they finally called my name. We walk up to the guy that looks exactly like the skinny guy in That 70's show, and he ask is your wife here, I say no she already flew back to the US. "Well she needs to sign this I-600 form and come back when it is signed. I will keep the paperwork warm for you" My heart sank and my blood pressure shot up. So then we got ahold of you my sweet darling and you came through in the clutch and we halled ass back to the embassy and it closes at 5pm and we get there at 4:27pm. All the windows are shut except one and they tell us to take a seat. What happened to keep the paperwork warm???? 4 minutes before 5pm the skinny guy walks up to the window and goes through our paperwork and then does some little stupid interview that doesn't even matter. THEN he says it will be ready for you on Wednesday after lunch. I about have a heart attack. I said I am on a plane tomorrow and the next available flight is September 6th is there anything we can do and is this a problem. He says "It's not my problem and then laughs" If there wasn't plexy glass there I would have killed him. I say again is there a request or something that I can file to expedite this because there are no alternatives. He then says let me check and see what I can do. It will be ready by 10am tomorrow. I then had a sense of relief and almost passed out.

So I love this story. I love how the Embassy guy was totally just messing with him. I think if that was my job I would do the same. Say the person is NEVER gonna leave and then just watch their face, awesome! I dont think Jason is finding the humor. Well, all is set, I talked to him last night and he was packing. He says he's a little nervous about the plane ride. Toufiq tends to be a normal 20 month old and loves to throw fits in public. Everyone knows how that goes. God Bless Jason, he's really been a trooper for his boy. I told him that know one says childbirth is easy!! At least it didnt go on for nine months! Heres Toufiq livin it up in the van on the way to crater lake. Wonder how he feels about carseats?

Random Ethiopia Pics

2008-08-15T16:12:00.000-07:00

This is the view from our balcony. These are homes to many Ethiopians, and cover the city, pretty much every area looks close to this.

This is Solomon, our driver! I cannot say enough wonderful things about his man. He was such a life saver. He took awesome care of us and taught us so much of his country. He is such a gentle, intelligent, funny man, we will miss him!
Here is a fruit stand. We stopped on day one to get bananas and oranges to hand out to people that came to our car. Our first attempt at this didnt go so well, we were handing them out to children and one little girl grab three and was teasing the others. Solomon got angry at her and said the was greedy. Many Ethiopians do not like to give hand outs to children because they feel it only continues the problem. They say they should be in school but like begging better because they get something. Its very hard to see and not want to give them anything you have.

What a smile!! I love how his whole face crinkles up when he laughs! Too cute!
So handsome!!

weight loss, head lice, and lost luggage

2008-08-15T05:46:00.000-07:00

Alrighty, so I got an email from Jason this morning and heres the newest. He and Toufiq were at one of the orphanages with our FABULOUS driver, Solomon. Solomon was playing with toufiq when he noticed a little something something. Drum role....he has head lice!!! I know I know, he lived in an orphanage, he was surrounded by other children, the odds are good that he may have this, BUT I am freaking out a bit! Solomon took Jason and Toufiq to a local barber that he said wouldnt make Toufiq cry and shaved his hair. Now i'm thinking perhaps it was a trick. See all the Ethiopians keep asking Jason if Toufiq is a little girl because his hair has gotten so long. Side note: it is only a few inches and has the most beautiful curls ever. So I'm telling myself that there was no problem but they just wanted his hair cut! Now Jason and Toufiq are sanitizing what they call Prison Cell 721 (the hotel room). And for those who are thinking it but wont ask, NO so far I do not have lice and am NOT going to get it, I refuse! I am buying a kit today and will treat him when he steps off the plane! What if we had to shave off Ella's beautiful mane, she would loose it, ha ha !!!

As for our paperwork...it finally was sent by CIS electronically to the NVC and is now in Addis!! Let me hear an AMEN!!! He tried to get his passport today but it didnt show up at the Em. until 11am and the man that needed to sign off left at 10. They close at noon on Friday, love it!!! AWESOME! So they promised that he would get his stuff on Monday and be on the plane on Tuesday and home by Wednesday. I told Jason that this is almost as painful as childbirth and that perhaps we are 1-1 with children! I at least had drugs! Maybe he should pick up some Chat (Ethiopian plant that they chew and 'medicates' them. It turns they're gums bright green).

As for me. I am going to sleep around 8 and waking up around 4am! I weighed myself yesterday and I lost a total of 10 lbs. If you know me, you know that I am blessed in the weight department and really didnt have 10 lbs to loose. I look like I might blow away! Dont worry, I've already chowed down on steak, fried chicken, and every fruit and salad imaginable! Tonight I have a nice tub of bluebell waiting!

As for families that I promised pics for. The airlines lost my bag, I just received it so I will go through it all and mail those out today or tomorrow. The babies and children are beautiful and it was such an honor to met them and stand in for their mothers for a day!

Home again, Home again

2008-08-14T05:16:00.000-07:00

I'm home!!!! After the 21hr travels I have made it back to the US. I am so happy to be home with Ella. It is bittersweet, Jason and Toufiq are still on the other side of the world, in Addis. The paperwork was not fixed in time and they had to stay behind. The whole situation is so completely ridiculous. I will go into further detail but not now. I am too happy to be home with Ella and too tired to go into it all right now. I will say that hopefully Jason and Toufiq will be home next Wednesday. Thats right, Jason will have been in Addis for 18 days. Not only are we not home as a family after ALL this time, but we are spending a billion just on travel only. Its a blessing that Jason is self employed but at the same time, if he doesn't work, we don't get paid. The stress level is just a bit high! I know that in a year from now it will all have been forgotten but as of now it is tough to have traveled all that way, been in Addis for 10 days and still not be together as a family. Please pray that things move quickly and Jason makes his plane on Tuesday. The flights out of Addis are few and far between, like booked up until Sept. 6th so its very important that he gets on that flight. Oh, and don't worry that flight is only available first class which is about $1400 more than coach. I hate complaining about money in this situation but what the heck? We're kinda over the ol travel budget.
Ok, i'm done complaining on to the most important, TOUFIQ! He is such a doll. It was so amazing to see him grow in such a short time. On day one he was literally a blank stare. He attached to me right away which was such a blessing but only to me. He just sat and stared, wouldnt play, wouldnt walk, it was extremely hard to see. For some reason I hadnt prepared myself for that. On day two we went to the care centers to visit which was hard for him. He had one care taker that was very special to him so it set him back again when we left. Day three was still hard, he wouldnt go to Jason, in fact would slap at him if he got too close. He wouldnt go to either of my parents and still wouldnt play. Finally on day four, the walls began to fall. He started to smile, to interact with me and Jason. Day after day he started to blossom and grow. When I left he was loveing his father and belly laughing. He is such a wonderful blessing and gift. He has the best smile and awesome sense of humor, which if you know us that is important! I promise I will post pics but I havent gotten a chance to download them to this computer yet (my computer is with jason). I have so many things to write about. So many beautiful things, and so many sad things to share. Thank you to everyone that has followed our story thus far and has been praying for us. It has been amazing to see God's hand at work and how he hand picked the children he did for each family. Truly an amazing journey. I promise more to come.

They Have Toufiq!!

2008-08-06T10:16:00.000-07:00

This update is from Stephanee - Ashley's sister. Ash is having trouble with the internet and can't update the blog herself or load pics - so I haven't seen any either. Hopefully soon!

We made it!!! We are here in Ethiopia, we got here sunday night and met our son on monday! Toufiq could not be any more handsome! He has really bonded to me, not his father so much but doesn't let me get out of his sight! A blessing and a challenge! He love to be tickeled and has the cutest little grin. Travis brought him to us on monday instead of us going to the care center which made it a little bit easier. He cried for a few minutes and then decided I wasn't that bad. Today we went to the care center which was emotional for him. There is one lady there that is amazing and really really loves him and him her, so it was hard to take him away from her. She got him an ethiopian outfit, shoes and all! If you have a baby at one of the care center rest assured that they are loved! The women there are wonderful and the house is very nice. All the babies seem happy and loved.

It has been a whirlwind of a trip so far. We have seen so much. Addis is such a huge city with a lot of beauty and a lot of poverty. Some things are very hard to see and very eye opening. Friday we will go to the government orphanages which will be hard but fun at the same time. I am really looking forward to meeting the kids and playing with them. We are buying an ox, yes I said an ox, for the boys. They do not get meat unless someone buys it for them. There are ox and goats walking the streets so finding one should not be hard! Travis said the he'd take care of the rest, something about leading the ox to the butcher may be a bit hard!

We are still hoping to get to come home all together at the same time but we went to the embassy today and our paperwork was not there yet. We're going back tomorrow and hoping for better luck. Belay seems very confidant. Hopefully I will be able to update again but the internet here has a mind of its own, so we'll see.

Last post in the good ol USA!!

2008-08-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

Well, all I can say is that today has been a day... It all started with me catching a cold about two days ago so this morning I slept in when I was woken by a call from Natalie at Gladney (Mary was out of the office for the day). Apparently there was a mistake in our home study that was sent to CIS months ago. Since then we caught the mistake but didn't realize that the update should have been sent to CIS. In our home study it said that we are approved to adopt a child 12 months and younger, seeing that Toufiq is 19 months, 15 months at referral (which is what the embassy will honor) its a bit of a problem for getting him his visa. Belay contacted Gladney with this info this morning. So here we are a day before leaving with an issue...you can imagine my state! We contacted our Congressmen who is helping with the issue along with a friend that is getting in touch with a Senator whom I'm hoping will speed things up. So all day we we're faced with the dilemma to still fly out tomorrow or wait until we get paperwork fixed. Those of you in the process know that NOTHING happens overnight when dealing with government offices, and sending things to a foreign embassy. After talking to our travel agent we found out that if we do not go now, we cant go until the very very end of aug. b/c of the flights out of Ethiopia. So we are going as planned but not knowing how long we will all have to be there. If the paperwork doesn't get there in time one of us will have to stay and wait it out. Because of flights its not an option for us both to stay longer. At this point we haven't decided who that person will be, we will cross that bridge when we get there.

Adoption has been such a roller coaster. It truly has its ups and downs and unexpected turns right when you think you've got it all figured out. God has asked me to trust in Him and in His timing trough out this whole process. What a learning experience this has been. I have been amazed and surprised at what I can accomplish and the patience and trust that only God can provide. So what all is going through my mind the night before travel across the country on a journey to hold my son for the first time? At this point all I can think is wow. We are so incredibly blessed. Blessed to have the resources to do this, blessed to have such an amazing circle of family and friends willing to help. Whether, loving our daughter while we're gone or taking care of our pets. Without them we could not do this, thank you. Lastly we are so blessed to have such an amazing, faithful Lord that has lead us on this path and supported us the whole way. What an amazing peace that comes with that.

Please keep us in your prayers. Please pray that our paperwork is fixed in time for us to all travel home together. Please pray for safe travel tomorrow and while we're there and that we are able to truly soak up our son's homeland and cherish each moment.

We will land in Ethiopia the night of Aug. 3rd and will update as much and as often as we can!

Getting Closer

2008-07-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

So what do you do 4 days before leaving for Africa? Well...
You makes list, lots and lots of lists!

You pack. Everyday you pack, until you can pack no more! Literally, we are filled up!

And of course make some time for crafts!

Wordless Saturday

2008-07-26T12:58:00.000-07:00

more pics

2008-07-26T12:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry for all the pics, but I got a new camera and so i'm playing a little bit!

Just some pics!

2008-07-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

11 days to go

2008-07-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

This was one of our referral pics, I love it. Just how I had pictured him!

I cant believe that we're off to Africa in two weeks! So far we have booked our flights, and our hotel reservations and now I'm starting on packing. I'm terrified about this flight, 15 hrs on a plane is not my idea of fun. Thats right, 15, not including our flight from Austin to Washington which is 3 with a FIVE hour layover. I am not a great flyer so on the way there I plan on self medicating however on the way back with a 18 month old I may freak out...wow wow wow! Maybe I'll just accidentally take an ambien and let Jason take over on the flight home :)

Lots of people have been asking where Ella will be staying while us and my parents are gone...she will be staying with the Potts family, or the potts, pans, spoons, and knives as she calls them. My sister only has three kids right now but Ella thinks its a heard! And when I say 'only has three' thats because she is adopting two girls from the Ukraine. Actually while we're gone the two girls will be coming for a short hosting trip! So thats right, you have added correctly, Stephannee will have SIX children while we're away. What a trooper she is! Ella may be in utter shock that week but I figure it will break her in for her new life with a brother! Thanks Potts!

Pay it forward

2008-07-16T07:15:00.001-07:00

Here is another wonderful pic of our son! This pic was taken by a wonderful family that was my saving grace during a long long long wait. They were kind enough to take a camera card that I sent to them and fill it up with videos and pics of our precious son. It really was such a blessing to get to see some video of him, and to get a glimpse into his world. If there are any families out there that have gotten referrals, I would love do the same and get some pics for you and just love on your babies! Email me at ash_flo@hotmail.com and give me info and I will do my best!

Pack your bags...we're going to Africa!

2008-07-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

Toufiq is officially ours!!!!!! I just got a call from Mary with the awesome news that Toufiq is our son, we got our opinion and passed through court. AMEN! Its lookin like we'll be in Ethiopia from Aug 4th-11th. We're calling the travel agent today and should have more news on the details later. For now, all I know is that we are approved, I have a son, and we are going to AFRICA!!!!!

Getting Close

2008-07-13T17:28:00.001-07:00

Here is a little preview!!!! Does he not have the most beautiful eyes???

We got some fabulous news last week that things are moving yet again! We cant wait to hear that 'unknown' ring on my phone with some wonderful news. I know in my heart we're getting closer!

Another Monday

2008-07-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Another Monday, which means another conference call, which means another step closer to Bennet. I believe this was the fifth conference call. Actually they're kinda fun (hey-trying to be positive here). Its interesting all the different views on the 'hold up' in Ethiopia. I think I'm supposed to be extremely vague on the situation so that's about it, I suppose. I did learn something that was exciting to me, as we all know the rainy season is about to begin in Ethiopia so the courts will shut down from Aug. to the beginning of Oct., however if you get through the court process before they shut down you can still travel during those months and the embassy is still open. I thought that there was no hope for travel during those months, so yea! I'm staying hopeful that things will get rolling soon!

I do have some wonderful news about adoption, just not our adoption. My sister's family are getting SO close to bringing their girls home. They got their admission date for their dossier. I believe its August 9th (i was at the grocery store when she called so i cant really remember) and since the girls are older there is a great chance that they will get to travel quickly. Like September!!!! I cant believe they are going to be a family of 7, wow how much fun!!!!

On a different note, it rained today which if your in central Texas you know is a great thing! Rainy summer afternoons always makes me think of when I was a kid and lived in town in our childhood home. I just remember playing in our driveway and how it smelled. I love it when it rains during the summer, its so warm and peaceful.

Nothing New

2008-07-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

This is about the third time that I've started a new post and then quickly realized that I had absolutely nothing to say! With that said I'm sure your thinking... wow this is going to be griping! Honestly I just dont have ANYTHING new going on. Our little boy is getting older and older and feeling so far away, and these 'dog' days of summer are dragging on and on! I did go to Dallas the other weekend. My amazing friend and ex-roommate from college, Emily, is getting married in Sept. so me and my other wonderful friend and ex-roommate from college, Robin, had a road trip for Emily's shower. It was really good to see my girls and get some good catch up time in. Emily is not only hilarious and beautiful but she is also incredibly smart and spent the last 2 1/2 years working to become a PT at Colombia in New York. She totally rocks-just a little shout out Em! Anyways, we are all headed to the River House for the 4th. Its so awesome that this is like the 4th year that we've attended the Wimberely Rodeo, it is sooooo funny there... we're talking clowns, bull riding, even a VFW dance at the end. Do you get any better???

Ok, I know this pic has nothing to do with my post but...this is the sling that we got for Bennet while in Ethiopia, Ella was kind enought to try it out. Is she too big???

Must see to believe

2008-06-20T16:11:00.000-07:00

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/7444998.stm You really do need to see this to even believe. It is unreal, something that is so inconceivable, coming from a county where the lack of food will never be an issue. Call me naive, but how can there be such wealth in this world yet still have such poverty?

Beach time, baby!

2008-06-15T13:47:00.000-07:00

We just got home from a week of fun in the sun! Since things are crazy with our adoption and life seems to be on hold, we (our family, my sis's family, and my parents) decided to take a last minute trip to Rosemary Beach, Fl. I am so proud of everyone for being so spontaneous, didn't it pay off!?! We had a wonderful time, the town we stayed in was amazing, it is a small community on the beach with the most amazing homes all different yet all of them blend together perfectly. The town square is filled with shops, ice cream parlor, restaurants, and was just a bike ride from the house we stayed at. Really an amazing trip, how truly blessed we are!

This is a pic from one of the 'greens'. The orange building was an amazing french bistro, yum!

After the french bistro we watched a movie outside on the green. The do this once a week!

Here's our bathing beauty! Think she's having any fun?

Okay, look at that water, sooo worth the 12hr drive! I wish i could zoom up on Ella's cousin Ben's bathing suit, the elastic had gone bad so all day his pants were below his bum!

Ella's favorite pool and beach toy!

Here is a pic from our balcony. Our house was right on the green with a view of the ocean. We would send the kids down for football and the men down for coaching and watch with a glass of wine.

This was Ella on the first night. We had just gotten there, just in time before the sun went down. Her face lite up when she hit the sand!

So now we're home, back to the real world. It was only in the high 80's in FL. however today it was 101 in Tejas, wow gotta love a Texas summer! I've gotten a beach trip in, now I just need to make it to the river before it dries up, we really need some rain. Anyways, nothing new on the adoption front, I'll post as soon as I know something!

Not an Ethiopian baby but a baby none the less

2008-06-03T07:45:00.000-07:00

We have been waiting 11 months for this day and it finally has come...Penny Lane our wonderful broodmare had her colt!!! He is absolutely adorable!

Penny is a quarter horse, her only job in life is cookin up adorable foals, she is very good at it!

His father is a Welsh pony, who is the National Welsh Champion in 07, he lives in Oregon and is soooo handsome!

We think that the baby will shed out to be a dark Palomino some time between when he sheds his baby coat and turns two. Ella wants to spend all of her time with the baby, her favorite thing to do is when he lays down to put his head in her lap and sing him lullabies. She sings a bit of a remix, with twinkle twinkle, Jesus loves the little Children, and some others. I'll post some pics of her with him soon.

Fractured Back!

2008-05-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

So what do you do while waiting for MOWA to get an opinion...you break your back, litter ally. Yesterday I was giving a lesson to my 10 year old niece Allee, she was riding her pony Major who she has been riding for the past five months or so. She had a great warm up on him and then started over fences. It was of course about 100 degrees so the pony was starting to act like a pill, trying to grab the bit and run out of the arena so I told Allee to hop off and let me get on and ride him through it. Well...thats not quite how Major saw things happening. After about two minutes of riding him he let me have it. Out of no where he trough a hell of a buck throwing me off and then followed it up with trying to kick me while I was down, I literally had to duck and roll out of the way. I love ponies!! Anyways after a long ER visit, a few xrays, cat scan, iv, etc, it was concluded that I fractured my back in two places. I went to a back specialist today and he said that its going to take about 6 months to heal completely. He also gave me an awesome back brace, it is a real looker, just what I envisioned for my summer attire. UGGGHHH!!!! I am not a happy camper! I do feel so fortunate and Thank God that Allee was not on him when he pulled this and thank God that it wasnt worse. So now we're left trying to find Major a new home where he will not be ridden and if we cant, we may be faced with having to put him down. There is just no excuse for a 'childs' pony to act this way with such violence. Anyways, so now I'm hanging out with some pain meds, trying to heal a little before we travel! Nothing like picking up a 18 month old and a three year old with a fractured back, awesome!!!

If its not one thing...

2008-05-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

If its not one thing its another. I talked to Mary today and Belay went to the committee building and the electricity was out all day so no one came in, awesome! He is hopeful that we will hear something by Monday. I cant wait to meet this man, I have heard so many wonderful things about Belay and am now experiencing how much work he puts in with our case. Thank you Belay!

Update

2008-05-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

So a few new updates...I'll give you the good news first...Bennet is feeling better, he is on antibiotics for seven days and is back at the Gladney center. Mary is going to try and get an update soon.

Now the bad news...the commitee that makes the first decision did not review our file for whatever reason so therefore the courts could not make a decision as well. Belay convinced them to leave our file open instead of closing the file and re-issuing a new date. This means that once the commitee makes a decision it will go straight to the court and they will make a decision. Anyways, Mary is hopeful that this will happen this week so we are back to waiting, waiting, waiting.

Tomorrows the day

2008-05-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, so here we go...court is tomorrow! We are feeling positive and resting in the fact that God's hands are at work. Everything in His perfect timing. We did get an upseting call today from Mary, Bennet and other children we're taken to the hospital for fever. He had not been seen by a doctor yet so we wont know much until tomorrow. So tomorrow will be full of reports, hopefully all positive ones. It breaks my heart that he is at the hospital without his mommy or daddy. I'm hoping its a quick visit and he is now back feeling better. Keep Bennet in your prayers

One more week

2008-05-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Exsactly one more week til court! I am really excited, nervous, happy, scared, all at once. I hope hope hope we get through the first time, that would be awesome!! We're going on the same day as our court date to get all of our shots, i'll be glad to get that checked off my million things to do list. On a different adoption note, my sister and her family are hosting Nastya and her sister from the Ukraine for the summer. They are in the process to adopt them but have hit a few bumps in the road which may cause it to be later than sooner, so it will be great to have them here all summer, plus we havent met Kaytia (spelling?) yet!

On a non adoption note, my father had to have his apendix out last night. He had been telling my mom that his right side hurt and that he thought he was coming down with something. My mom is all her wisdom pulled up the good ole world wide web and did some research and took him to the ER last night around 11. After 5 hours in the waiting room he was finally seen and taken into surgery about two hours later. I went up there this morning and saw him when he got out. He is doing good, sleeping and snoring, and looking soooo much like Jack Nickelson in As Good As it Gets, its scary. Hopefully he will not parade around the hospital bare a**! -if you havent seen the movie I highly recommend

Contact

2008-04-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

Ashgene Photography

I am usually really good at getting back to you through email, feel free to email or call to set up appointments or if you have any questions.

Email: ash_flo@hotmail.com

Phone: 830.556.46460

Website: www.ashgenephotography.com

About Ashley

2008-04-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

Hi. It is hard to sit here and sum up who I am and put it into paragraph form. If your on this site I suppose your interested in either horses, photography, adoption or family.

I've been married to my wonderful husband, Jason, for four years. We live in Texas on what some people call a compound. Me, my sister's family, and my parents all sharing one big farm!

We have two children. Ella who is four years old, and Bennet who is two.

I started this blog to journal my experience of adopting our son. It was a place to share my frustrations, my fears, and my excitement. The blog community has been a wonderful place to meet other adoptive parents, keep up with their families and to learn in parenting from others. During our adoption the amazing outreach of prayers and encourgement from total strangers was incredible.

My blog is now more of a journal of our lives together. Daily life, the good, the bad, and the ugly!

A huge part is now about my photography. It has been an amazing way to express myself, a way to be creative and to document our life and lives of others. I absolutely adore being a photographer and look forward to seeing what is in store for Ashgene Photography.

I love horses, I love a good nap on a rainy day. I never get to spend enough time with friends. I love a good glass of wine.

I enjoy reading comments you leave so don't be shy!

HOOT HOOT, HOLLA HOLLA

2008-04-24T19:41:00.000-07:00

Guess who got a court date!?! That's right, May 13th is the big day! I am so glad to have a date and somewhat of a timeline. I must say that I absolutely LOVE getting the 'unknown' calls from Mary. I am going to miss getting those unexpected calls. I love how life will be just trukin along and then bam, it changes! It was such a fun day when we got the referral call and a awesome day today with our court date call! Anyways please keep us and our little boy in your prayers. Hopefully it will go smoothly and on the 13th we will officially be the parents of the cutest little Ethiopian boy!

Random blog

2008-04-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

So what do you blog about when you have absolutely NO new adoption news???? Well a have a few random thoughts...

First off...so the other day was Earth day and normally I dont really take notice however this year I was reading some stuff and decided to make a few changes and try to do my part. Ok so for the next 6 months I'm going to try to recycling which really shouldnt be a big deal however since we dont live in town we have to drop our recycle stuff off once a week, but I figure I'm already out running around so why not?!? The next thing is grocery bags. I ordered reusable ones and am going to keep them in my car. It is crazy how long a single bag takes to decompose. So there you have a few little changes!! And, NO we are not going to cloth diapers, that is a lovely thought (well, not really) but I just dont think I can do that!

The other thing thats on my mind is in fact American Idol, I love me some idol!!! I hated seeing the Scottish girl go home, I really liked her. And this might upset some people, but can Jason please hit the road already. I mean come on, the hair, the song, its time! I do however love the girl that sang last night, you know the, bleeding love song. I wish sooooo badly that I could sing. I often think if I just keep trying my voice will slowly morph into Mariah Carrie, Whitney Houston, Patty Griffin, or maybe that Dixie Chick girl. Jason assures me that its not! I'm pretty sure that I'm not going to be able to live my dream through Ella either. Every morning she heads out onto our patio and belts out a song and unfortunately I think she's got her mom's vocals!!!