My journey to Aimée

Julia's Daycare Rocks!!!!

2010-12-02T17:14:00.000-08:00

Here are 70 reasons why we love Julia’s Daycare (in no particular order). Julia, you are truly the best and we are so blessed to have you in our lives!!!!!!

Celebrations!

2010-11-07T13:26:00.000-08:00

Aimée turned three on Thursday and it has been a very special time for both of us. I am so appreciative of the incredible love family and friends have shown her this week. She beamed from ear to ear and felt like a princess. I beamed ear to ear and felt my heart might burst. My mother says that nothing makes a makes a momma happier than to see her child happy. I really get that now. There is no greater joy . I loved watching her soak up all the attention and vibrate from head to toe with joy. Aimée's joy is like a drug to me. The best high ever.
Now, before you think I am completely co-dependant, I will have you know I also purchased a red shiny new 2010 Dodge Journey this week and this also makes momma very very happy:)

On Thursday we went to our favorite Vietnamese restaurant with Hannah and Cindy. The dinner was fantastic. We tried some new dishes and Aimée and Hannah were treated to "on-the-house"

deep fried bananas and coconut cream/ice cream to celebrate Aimée's birthday. It was a very warm and fuzzy kind of evening.

On Saturday we had Aimée's birthday party. It was so much fun to have everyone come and celebrate with us. Micky Mouse Club House was the theme. Here are some before pictures.

According to our dear friend Judith, she spent Friday evening rolling meat balls and baking the birthday cake. Heck, she may have even told a few guests she threw the entire party herself! For those of you who do not know it, I will set the record straight, the cake was actually made by Sue! Thank you for an amazing cake Sue. It was a hit.

Aimée was absolutely delighted to see all the balloons!

Here, Little Owen and Sadie are each sporting their very own designer Goofy birthday party hat.
We played,

we ate,

then we sang.

"Happy birthday dear Aimée

Happy birthday to you"

Aimée blew out her candles and made her 3 year old birthday wish.
What does a 3 year old wish for? Aimée received so many exciting birthday gifts...

including Baby Jude.

Just turned three and she is already reading her own birthday cards. That's my girl.

It was a great day!

One of Aimée's early birthday gifts was a night out to see the Wiggles live. Aimée loved it and still talks about it. "That fun the Wiggles". Here are Aimée and Hannah waiting for the big event at Scotia Place. It was a great concert but between you and I, I think Anthony was snorting coke before the show. He was literally and figuratively flying high.

Here are few quick pictures of Halloween. Aimée was sick for Halloween and only managed to visit three houses. At least she got to practice trick-or-treating before hand with her Pépère. Pépère was awfully generous with the candy.

Aimée loved having her Mémère and Pépère visit. She even put on her own gymnastic show for them. She can raise her legs and bottom so high in the air that her feet can touch her head!!! Clearly, we do not share genetics.

Confessions of an Exhausted Mommy.

2010-09-26T15:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I could go on and on as to why I have not blogged in so long but I won’t. I will simply admit that I am sadly not the super mom I used to dream of being. I don’t run home each evening, after being sweet Miss Honeywell at school all day, to make homemade dinners (unless frozen and Take out count). That is not me. I actually leave the house with beds unmade and breakfast dishes on the table. I now tell myself that as long as Aimée is happy, fed, and somewhat clean and presentable I am doing a great job. My standards of parenting have clearly dropped now that I am actually parenting.

Happy Têt-Trung-Thu

We had lots of fun celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival this week. We had a yummy Vietnamese dinner hosted by Cindy during the week. As part of the celebration, Aimée and I decorated our own lanterns. She is quite pleased with hers as you can very well see.

On Saturday afternoon, we went for a quick trip to Montréal to see "La magie des lanternes" at the Montreal Botanical Garden. It was truly an amazing sight. The whole atmosphere, especially the pagodas, reminded me of being in Vietnam. Here are some pictures I took at night.

While we waited for dark, we decided to visit some of the other gardens. Let's just say that Aimée was not always on her best behavior. Here, Aimée is in time out for running off once again and making her Mommy chase her half way across the garden to get her (while giggling I might add). Not so funny now, is it Miss Aimée!!!

This is a blurry picture, but if you look closely, you will see the mischievous glint in her eyes. God help me!!!!

This fall, Aimée is signed up for dance and gymnastics. Here she is at her first gymnastics or as she would say "elastics" class.

Late August, we went camping in Mattawa at Champlain Park. It was cold but great fun.
Mémère and Aimée

Sorry Aimée, it is just way too cold to swim.

Big

2010-08-07T13:04:00.001-07:00

BIG WALKS

BIG TREE

BIG ADVENTURE

BIG TOYS (Sadie's)

BIG SMILES

BIG FRIENDSHIP (Aimée, Sadie and Hannah)

BIG HOLES

BIG YELLOW NOODLE

BIG ENDEAVOR (POTTY TRAINING)

BIG GIRL BED

BIG GIRL PRIVILEGES

BIG SLEEP

BIG LAUGHTER!

MY BIG GIRL!!!!

More Fun Than A Barrell Of Monkeys!

2010-07-23T04:52:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe tomorrow will be the end of our holiday.
No more Mickey.
No more gourmet dinners from my brother.
No more Lazy River.
No more pillow parties with the cousins.
Aimée is definitely going to go through withdrawals. She has been loving having all these people around her 24/7. I will have to let you know how the whole back to routine and regular bedtime goes in the next week. For now, I am not going to worry about it and enjoy my last day with my family.

Glorious Disney #2

2010-07-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

Aimée was so excited to meet her favorite friends from Disney. Unfortunately, the pictures did not catch the excitement and pure pleasure she had in meeting each one individually.

Denise and Devlin

BLIZZARD BEACH

We all love Blizzard Beach and have already been several times. The excitement never ends. In the wave pool my bottoms fell down while I was in the center of a tire tube holding Aimée. Thank heavens my mother quickly came to my rescue.

While happily floating down Lazy River, my sister in law Sarah began yelling something at me. There was so much commotion going on around me, and with her British accent, I couldn't understand a darn thing. I just nodded, smiled and continued on my merrily way. The commotion got louder and Sarah became a little more animated than usual. I turned to my left and just inches from me and my precious daughter was a HUGE, vicious, black gardener snake. I did what any protective mother bear would do; panicked, swore like a sailor and screamed like never before. Maneuvering one of those tubes while your rear has sunk deep in the whole is not an easy task, but, nothing was going to stop me from saving my baby!

Another near death event took place that afternoon when my mother decided to wait for Aimée and I inches away from the bottom of a huge slide. The last thing I saw before taking my mother out was her smiling face and outreached arms.

After my mother recuperated, it was time to do the family raft ride. It was a little too much for her and she came very very very (dry heaves) from up chucking in the pool while her blessed children pissed themselves laughing. It was time to go home.

Two very tired toddlers and Mommies.

Glorious Disney

2010-07-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

We are in Orlando and having a glorious time. The flight out was a bit stressful: no seat for Aimee, seat for Aimee in another aisle, wrong gate number, instructed to get luggage in wrong place, second interrogation room at US customs, flight delay of over an hour just to name a few.

There are so many perks to coming to Florida in the summer. For one, while waiting in queue for Disney attractions, you could close your eyes and pretend you are at a spiritual sweat lodge and take a moment to reflect on your blissful life.

Memere, Pepere and Aimee

Handy Manny, we love you. I told Manny I loved his BIG tools:) There were also a few references regarding him getting hammered and his screws.... but this is a family blog so I won't go there.
The night parade was brilliant!

This picture of Snow White was taken just for you Hannah. We wish you were here with us.

Aimee went on the spinning cups with Auntie Sarah and Uncle Andre. I preferred keeping down my cookies and cheer from the sidelines.

Aimee adored the fireworks and wanted "more, more, more...".

Can you guess what trade Charlie might take on in another 20 years?

Uncle Andre and all the cousins in the hot tub.

We are having the time of our lives. We are now off to Blizzard Beach.

Sun, sun, sun, here we come.

2010-07-07T12:58:00.000-07:00

Canada DayThe girls

Aimée loves to carry food in her hand for hours (cookies, crackers, brownies). She never eats it, she just likes to carry it around. Well I shouldn't say never. One night, Aimée carried this cookie in her hand everywhere. It slid down the slide and the teeter totter (on its own). It fell a dozen of times in the dirt. It got all crunched up and sweaty. I was not worried about it because I never thought for a second she would try to eat it after all that. Yup, after two hours of carrying the thing around she decided it was time to take a bite. Disgusting yes, but such will power, don't you think? Here, both Hannah and Aimée were carrying there cookies with them and came very close to being attacked by crazed seagulls.

Cookie in hand at water park!!! Yuck!!

More water fun with Little M

Crazy hair after swim

Big Helper

Here is Aimée with some of her little friends at daycare. She is over a year older than these two boys.

Aimée's daycare worker is fabulous. She is always trying to sneak veggies into Aimée's food. These next pictures are so funny. Here Julia sneaked some cauliflower in her macaroni and cheese.
"Did you say cauliflower?"

"Yuck!"

In just a few more sleeps, we are off to Disney World for two incredible weeks. Yoohoo! I am so excited to just get there and hang out with family. This vacation means the world to me because Aimée gets to be with her cousins. As an only child, her cousins will be very important to her as she grows up.

I just had to share with you Aimée's passport picture. It was so hard getting her to stay still and keep her mouth closed. The lady taking the picture gave Aimée a little cookie and as Aimée sucked on it she took the picture.

Even two year olds look like convicts in their passport pictures.

Tots and tots of fun! Really????

2010-06-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought I had figured out this whole baby thing, Aimée decided she was going to become a toddler. Now I am back to square one in trying to figure out the Little Miss. As a teacher, I was so sure I would have the discipline component of parenting down pat. Well, as it stands, Aimée usually laughs when I say no or give her a time out. Even my best teacher look has very little affect on her.

There are times where she is as sweet as an angel.

Then, there are times when she is having a full blown meltdown for no apparent reason. Either I am not letting her wear her boots in thirty degrees weather or I am not cooking the toast fast enough. UGH!!!

She is also exploring her independence these days,

and pouting big time when Mommy sets boundaries.

She is developing her own interests.

Such as rocks,

shoes,

and dancing.

She is still a little pip squeak, just weighing in at 22 pounds last week.

Aimée is also learning photography. Here are a few of her recent photos.

One of my personal favorites.
NOT!!!!

Simply adorable!

We are getting very excited for summer vacation and are getting through these last few weeks of school with fun weekend excursions. Last Sunday, we met up with Judith for a day in the market. Check out Aimée and her little purse. As God and Jude are my witnesses, Aimée wore her purse around her little wrist the entire day. My little diva!

We cannot wait for summer vacation. We have very special plans. Can you guess? Here is a hint.

M......I........C..........K.........E.........Y

Yup, we are spending two glorious weeks in Florida with my parents, brother and his family, and sister and her family. We have passes for two weeks at Disney and we will have the time of our lives. Summer cannot come soon enough!!!!!!

MAY

2010-05-30T10:35:00.000-07:00

65o baths...
3610 diapers...
9 colds...
3000 stories....
Countless smiles.....
And here we are...

our 2nd Adoption Day Anniversary.

May 26th, 2010

May 26, 2008

I can never fully express how happy Aimée has made me. I love my life with her. She is my greatest joy and my deepest love. I am incredibly blessed to have her as a daughter.

Hannah and Aimée playing in the backyard.
I have dreamed for so long to have a backyard cluttered with kids' toys.

Aimée's two buddies.

Making a mess in Mémère's tub!

Bubbles

Swimsuit Edition

Mémère, Pépère and Aimée

Child genius?

Mémère and Aimée

"Hey, Aimée..."

"What are you looking at?"

"BUGS!!"

Love you!

Catching Up

2010-04-14T16:47:00.000-07:00

Well, I kind of dropped the ball as far as blogging goes these last few weeks. I could give you a list of excuses, but I won't. Instead, I will just give you what you really want... pictures.

Aimée's first dance class.

Aimée seems to be really growing up fast these days. The other day when I looked at her I could already imagine what she would look like at 18.

Yikes!!!!!

Easter

"Look it... Look it!!! Eggs!!!!"

So much fun!

"I just love the that Easter Bunny!!!"

Learning how to blow bubbles

Feeling a little discouragedChilling with Mommy
Aimée met up with Hannah on Good Friday for Valley View Farm's annual Easter egg hunt.
Aimée treasured her Easter cookie prize and would not eat it or let it go for all the tea in China.

Aimée is into rock collecting these days!

My sister Denise and her family came for a visit in March. We got to meet Bébé Devlin for the first time.

Denise, David and Devlin.

Kael, Aimée and me

Bath time

Aimée not impressed

This and That

2010-02-27T04:52:00.000-08:00

Life with Aimée is incredible. Incredibly messy, incredibly busy, incredibly exhausting and most of all INCREDIBLY SWEET! Everything seems so much clearer and authentic. When I look at my life before Aimée, it was like watching regular television. Today, my life is in high definition.

One of the things we have been working on lately is Aimée's speech. She is slow to pick up on the language thing. I am now only speaking English to her. It was suggested/ strongly encouraged to me by her pediatrician and specialists at CHEO. With the help of a speech therapist we are already seeing great improvement. Aimée is adding new words to her vocabulary almost every day.We are also teaching Aimée some sign language to help reduce any frustration she may have at not being able to communicate. If you look at Aimée's left hand in this next photo you will see she is trying to sign "I love you".

Her favourite thing to do these days, thanks to her daycare, is identify and name letters. She has even become a little obsessed over letters and yells and points them out everywhere we go. We nearly got into a car accident the other day when she screamed at the top of her lungs. She wanted me to stop because she saw and "O" (her absolute favourite letter of all) on a billboard (Joey's Restauraunt).

She is also into Playdough these days. Recently, she has learnt to roll the Playdough between her two hands. It can keep her busy for a very very long time. ;)

Can you see the concentration in her face?

Good job, Aimée!

Go, Canada go!

Let's Celebrate!!!

2010-02-14T16:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year, Olympics, Family Day, and for my teacher friends, One Hundredth Day of School. Yoohoo!!!!! I must confess, my head felt a little dizzy by the end of this week! We have celebrated it all and can now just chill and relax tomorrow for Family Day.

2009

2010

Cheeky Monkey!

"Is that good, Aimée?"

Yummy!!

Soul sisters!

2010-01-27T10:20:00.000-08:00

Last night this mama did not feel like cooking. I convinced our friends Hannah and Cindy to join us at Subway for dinner. It was one of those moments that is hard to convey in words. You may even read this and think to yourself, what's the big deal. I can't really explain it other than saying it was truly the sweetest thing ever. The girls were hugging each other, playing with each other and even feeding each other (Hannah feeding Aimée). The love was almost intoxicating and made you feel warm all over. I could have stayed there all night. I never want to forget how sweet they were last night and how proud I was watching them. Bless them!! There is no such thing as mundane when you live with a small child!

The image quality may be poor, but the captured moment is priceless.

"More... PEASE Hannah!!!!!"

Hugs and kisses!

"It may be a crazy life, but, it is OUR life."

2010-01-24T08:18:00.000-08:00

Seeing that Kate (Jon and Kate Plus Eight) was not going to be using this line anytime soon, I thought I would steal it.

My house is a mess, I am very behind in returning calls or emails, I forgot to pay my heating bill, schoolwork is piling up and I cannot keep awake past 9pm....... In short, I am having the time of my life.

Dress Up with Hannah!

It is never too early to learn how to walk in high heels!
Adorable!

Sassy!

Precious!
My little diva is already quite fashion conscious. Whenever I wear a pair of Little Mismatched Sox, not a word of a lie, Aimée runs pointing too my feet and shouting "Oh No!!!... Oh No!!!.... Oh No!!!" I swear it happens each and every time. Are they really that bad?

Aimée likes to help herself to my wallet.

"Oh oh..."

This next picture cracks me up. It reminds me of a well known Canadian painting. Can you guess?

To Prince Edward Island by Alex Colville

Aimée now goes to A Gym Tale every Saturday morning. It is very exciting! Aimée made her first assisted somersault on the weekend.
A Gym Tale

Rideau Canal, Beaver Tails, hot chocolate and Auntie Jude.
Does it get any better than this?

We went tobogganing on the biggest hill our friend Tracey could possibly find anywhere last week. Do I look as exhausted as I felt? Pulling up a toddler (not to mention my own sorry butt) was no easy task.

Aimée is loving her new daycare and so am I!
Aimée takes her job of feeding Jackie (Liam and Aidan's guinea pig) very seriously.

We went to Kingston last weekend to celebrate Sadie's 3rd birthday. It was every little girl's dream birthday party. Perhaps Jacqueline would consider going into throwing me a pink princess birthday party too? Pwease?

We got to meet Bella and her entourage (AKA Family).

Aimée adored Bella's big sister Elizabeth.

WARNING!

2010-01-12T17:06:00.000-08:00

Who would have thought potty training could be dangerous? Aimée got a goose egg on her forehead! On Sunday, my eager little pumpkin sat enthusiastically on the potty for what must have seemed like an eternity for a two year old. I could just see the wheels turning inside her little head. She had the "I-just-don't-get-it" look on her face. She leaned over to check things out for herself. Nothing. She leaned even further... and further. Are you getting the visual? Kaboom!! The little miss fell head first off the potty and landed with her tiny bottom up in the air.

On another note. Aimée is still just as in love with the Wiggles as ever. She insists on taking these darn DVD cases everywhere. Here she is taking her beloved friends for a little stroll. (The picture is not great, but it gives you an idea of what I am up against.)

Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

We celebrated New Year's Eve with Cindy and Hannah. We had a fantastic time. The girls were dressed in their best princess gear and had a tea/dinner party. I loved spending the evening just hanging out with the girls. Truthfully, I did not have any other prospects for New Year's Eve. But, it really does not matter. Even if I had been invited out by a handsome arabian prince, I would have declined. I

loved my evening just the way it was.

Today, Aimée helped me shovel the driveway. Then, she did a bit of sliding down the snowbank. It was her first time doing any kind of sliding and she loved it. See for yourself!!!!

Aimée also likes playing with her new train set from Santa.

We had a visit from Judith this afternoon. It is her 40th b-day today! We were so excited to wish her a happy birthday (especially because she turns 40 before me!!!).

Aimée even shared her grapes with the birthday girl.

Happy New Year to all of you. May all your dreams come true in 2010!

The Gift That Keeps On Giving

2009-12-30T05:59:00.000-08:00

Several days before Christmas, I forgot to close the door to one of the storage spaces in the basement. It did not take long for Aimée to find some of her gifts. She went absolutely nuts when she saw the new Wiggles DVDs. She was ecstatic. I just didn't have the heart to take them away. For the next several days, she carried them everywhere. She ate, slept and played with one hand clinging to a case. On Christmas Eve, I wrapped the DVDs anyway and put them under the tree. Well, Aimée just about lost her mind with excitement when she discovered the DVDs once again. She cheered and danced. I nearly peed myself laughing. It was so much fun, I decided to try and do it again Boxing day. Again, I wrapped up the DVDs and gave them to her. Sure makes for an inexpensive Christmas... I just have to give her the same gift over and over again.

Here she is dancing with her beloved DVDs Christmas morning.

Here she is unwrapping them for the third time.

Here she is unwrapping them for a fourth time.

Is there anything more entertaining than messing with young minds?

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-22T18:19:00.001-08:00

To all our friends, we wish you a very special Christmas this year with those you love. All the best in 2010!!!

Thank you Aimée for filling my Christmas with such magic, joy, love and laughter.

Two years ago today...

2009-12-20T08:41:00.000-08:00

After a very long wait, I got the most amazing call ever. A beautiful 6 week old baby girl from Hoa Binh was waiting for me to take her home. What a rush of emotion that special day was. I will never forget the joy in my heart when I saw my daughter's sweet little face for the very first time!

Hurray for the Holidays!

2009-12-19T17:30:00.000-08:00

I know... I know... I am quite behind in my blogging. Life has been a bit crazy around here. Thank heavens for mothers. My mom came down last week to help me out. It has been such a treat. Aimée just loved it. Here she is dancing for joy (AKA showing off for Mémère)!!!

As you can see, she would make a fantastic wedding date. She has the chicken dance down pat.

Here we are in November with Hannah and Cindy at the Christmas parade.

Then there was Liam's second birthday.

Then came Hannah's second birthday (starring Elmo). Pictures to come.

Aimée loves Hannah. She finally can say her name, "Nana". Here they are dancing up a storm one December evening.

Aimée is starting to show some interest in the potty.

We had some Christmas photos taken by Lana. (The beautiful dresses come from Sadie.)
"This little light of mine,

I'm gonna let it shine....."

Aimée and her FAVOuRITE friend Chicken Elmo.

On one cold Sunday morning, Aimée got to brunch with all of the "young" cousins in Ottawa.

We had so much fun making Christmas cards at a card making party hosted by Julie. We had a visit with le Père Noël.

A picture is worth a thousand words!

Someone please make this stop!!!!

Today is our first day of Christmas holidays. I am drunk with happiness! I am looking forward to good times with Aimée, family and friends. I plan on living in my pajamas and eating and drinking like there is no tomorrow. I hope you too have many wonderful holiday plans with loved ones. Pick up your drink and let's toast to a very splendid Christmas!

Cheers!!!!!!

Feeling Better!

2009-11-14T10:29:00.000-08:00

Top Notch Birthday Party!

2009-11-12T07:07:00.000-08:00

Aimée's 2nd birthday party was a real hit! There were pony rides for all our little guests.
Wiggles the Clown was a hit with all the children.The kids laughed and played all kinds of fantastic games.

Aimée was a super star.

It was the best party that never was. I am just recreating a more memorable second birthday for Aimée. She will never know the difference. After all, what do we ever really remember about our second year of life anyway? Our memories are based on pictures and what our parents tell us. (By the way, do you think the pony rides were a little too over the top?)

The truth is Aimée's birthday party at daycare and on the weekend were both canceled. It was just the two of us the night of her birthday. We took out the cake and candles. I sang her the Birthday song. Then, we wrapped up the cake and put it back into the fridge. We were both too sick to eat any of it.

No, Aimée did not get any ponies, birthday parties or clowns named Wiggles for her second birthday. She got pink eye, strep throat and H1N1.

Happy Birthday, Love!

2009-11-04T05:17:00.000-08:00

Two years ago today, a very tiny Aimée came to this world. Although I did not yet know of her arrival, I already knew so much about her.

I knew she would have the sweetest touch. I knew her silly humor (funny or not) would send me into hysterics. I knew she would have the most beautiful smile. I knew she would steal my heart forever and rock my world. And, I was right on all accounts.

Today, she is growing and becoming her own little person. She is exactly the little girl I imagined she would be so many years ago.

"I knew I loved you before I met you

I think I dreamed you into life

I knew I loved you before I met you

I have been waiting all my life."

-Savage Garden

I have been given such a precious gift. I must admit that sometimes I feel undeserving of such an enormous blessing. "What could I have possibly done in life to be trusted with one of God's sweetest angels?" Perhaps it is not what I HAVE done in life, but, rather what I WILL do in life. I will always love her, protect her, guide her and cherish her like no one else.

A big Halloween BOO to you!

2009-11-01T04:26:00.001-08:00

Hope you had a great Halloween. We sure did! We first went to a Halloween party in the morning. There were ten 1 and 2 year olds running all over the place. Despite being under the weather and a little testy, Aimée had a great time. We were pirates. Arrrrg!

Aimée has already begun entertaining the boys.... Oh dear me...

Peek-A...

BOO!
In the afternoon, after a good nap and a good dose of Motrin, Aimée played outside with Mémère.

Baby Jail!

By dinner time, Aimée was in full blown show off mode purely for Mémère and Pépère's entertainment.

Aimée began washing her hair with yogurt. Very Nice!

"Cheese!!!"

Night time Trick-or-Treating.
Thanks to Auntie Ju, Aimée

is now a registered Chocoholic Anonymous member.

Aimée is ca-MOO-flaged!

Jack O'Lanterns for Dummies (or Babies)

2009-10-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

"Hello! I am going to teach you how to make a Jack O"Lantern in less than two minutes."

"Lesson One: These, my friend, are pumpkins."
Stick funny shaped eyes, ears and nose right into the pumpkin."

"It is o.k. to rearrange the facial features if you are not satisfied with your first try."

"There you have it, your Jack O'Lantern is done."

"Don't forget to take a few steps back and admire your work."

"And then, admire some more."

Yesterday, we went to the Third World Bazar in Manotick. It was awesome! It was my first time going and it was such a rush. I loved everything and wanted to buy everything. My budget only permitted a few small items, but, I am very pleased with what I bought.

Mother of pearl inlay picture of two Vietnamese women

Aimée is convinced this wood carving of a Vietnamese woman is actually a flute. She keeps trying to play music out of it.

My favorite purchase of the day was this adorable tea set.

To fall, or not to fall. That is the question.

2009-10-19T18:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday afternoon, we went to Hannah and Cindy’s to play in the leaves. The girls were not too sure what to make of us throwing leaves at them, but they were really good sports about it. They both sat in the leaf pile gnawing at their apples. Eating directly from the apple (not cut in anyway) is a new skill acquired by both Aimée and Hannah that day. They were very pleased with themselves.

Movie Night at Hannah's. Feature presentation: Halloween with Barney!

Aimée has been doing the funniest thing lately. She wiggles her belly onto the coffee table and then goes into shear panic mode. She screams with terror because she can no longer feel the floor with her feet (which, by the way, happen to be an inch off the floor). I, of course, gently bring her feet to the floor so she might realize how very close she is. However, time after time after time she keeps doing it and is genuinely panic stricken each time. Is it mean to laugh at your baby? I find it so funny I just had to get a picture of her screaming her head off while her feet dangled centimetres from the floor.

How can she look so young one moment and then so old the another. My baby is growing up.

Thanksgiving Weekend!

2009-10-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

Hope your Thanksgiving was as great as ours!
We visited Jacqueline, Jim and Sadie this weekend. Aimée and Sadie really enjoy being with each other. It was so much fun listening to them giggle and squeal in their beds. They were like two school age girls at a sleepover. If you ask Sadie though, she will insist they WERE sleeping! Sadie, although only a little over two and a half, dotes over Aimée. It just melts my heart. She is such a gentle little soul. Her eyes are always sparkling and I just adore her to bits.

Aimée and Sadie

Today, we hung out around the house. Auntie Ju stopped by in the afternoon. Aimée was full of kisses and very happy to see Judith. We first bundle up warmly and went to the park. Then, we came home and got right into the dress up clothes.

After our afternoon fun, I went upstairs to check on the roast I put on earlier in the day for dinner. Turns out I forgot to turn on the oven. Thank heavens Jacqueline had given us lots and lots of Turkey leftovers (half the flipping turkey I think) to take home, because that is what we ended up eating for dinner. And let me tell ya, it was even better the second time around! Thanks Jacqueline!

Greetings from the walking dead!

2009-09-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

O.K. That may have been a little too dramatic. Sorry man, but zombies are the first thing that pops into my head when I think of our last few weeks. In four weeks, Aimée has had 3 different colds. This last one is the mother of all colds. She has fevers, hacking coughs, congestion, diarrhea and night time vomiting. She shared her last cold with me. Three hip hip hurrays for daycare germs!

Work has also been draining! Last week our school got the terrible news that we were being reorganized. After 6 weeks of hard work and many many many extra hours preparing for my grade one class, I have learnt that I will now be teaching a Grade 1/2 split. For my teacher friends out there, I know you feel my pain and know how devastating and discouraging this would be. Getting prepared for a new class (not to mention a new grade I have never taught before) this late requires many late nights.

Despite her colds, Aimée's spirits have been very good. She loves playing with her new friends at daycare. This morning when I dropped her off, she ran up to the other little girl her age and they both hugged. It was the sweetest thing. I am seeing so many changes in Aimée. She continues to develop her cheeky sense of humor.

"Look, Maman!" "I am coloring!"

"Bravo, Bébé! You color in your book not on the walls."

"Walls?""You mean these walls?"
"Oops!'
"It was an accident!"

Aimée had some testing at CHEO last week. She is still having difficulties with her swallowing and eating. She had some x-rays done on her while she drank. It took 5 hours which made for a long day. The first set of x-rays were the worst. Three technicians held Aimée down with her arms above her head. Aimée screamed and cried for maybe half an hour. She got over it pretty quickly though. If only we could forget as quickly as our children do.

"Barium?"

"What the hay.. bottoms up!"

or bottoms down...

Mama Lisa

2009-09-13T12:22:00.000-07:00

"Hi you, so glad you popped in."

"I'm just drawing. Would you like to see my drawing?"

"Wait a minute, wait a minute, did I forget something?"

"Yup, just right there."
" Aww.. Much better!"

"O.K. Now it's ready for viewing."

"I call it the Mama Lisa. It is still very much in its early stages of course. Can you see the smile? Even Leonardo da Vinci had to start somewhere."

" Thank you, thank you Bev for the easel. I love it so much; especially the messy markers!"

Stacking!!!

2009-09-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

During Aimée's last three pediatrician visits, I have been asked if Aimée stacks blocks. The answer is always no. I have explained to her that Aimée just never seems interested in stacking blocks. She always gets this concerned look on her face and writes something down in her chart. Then she gets up and brings Aimée some wooden blocks so she can observe for herself. Aimée smacks them together, throws them on the floor or puts them in her mouth. I smile pleasantly while secretly begging God to will Aimée into stacking the darn blocks. She never does. The doctor tells me I need to work on this with Aimée.
Today, Aimée got into the groceries in the front entrance. She sorted through the bags and pulled out all the baby prune containers. I found her on the stairs stacking them. "Yippee! What a glorious day" My heart leaped for joy. I will be bringing the following video along with 5 baby prune containers to our next visit!!!!

Short and Sweet

2009-09-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

I have been running around these last few weeks getting my class prepared. Aimée has been going back to her daycare and she is very very happy to see her friends again. Yesterday, when I picked her up, she was playing freeze dance with the other children. When the music stopped, they all froze while Aimée clapped and cheered "Yay"!!!!
On the weekend we baked some chocolate chip/peanut butter cookies. They were yummy! Unfortunately, over zealous Auntie Ju fed Aimée a few too many. Aimée ended up upchucking. Yuck!

Cake Boss 2029

And sometimes I actually wonder why I can never get on top of my house work....

Strike it from the list, Baby!

2009-08-16T16:01:00.000-07:00

Our garage is now organized and clean! So clean in fact, if we had a freak snow storm tomorrow, I could just drive my car right into the garage with ease. Freakier things have happened!!

Aimée was a great help. You can see how impressed she was that she was still working while I was taking pictures.

We had a little swing break.

Then Aimée discovered the hose.

"OHHHH!"
How could I possibly resist?

"Encore"

The Interview

2009-08-14T06:05:00.001-07:00

- "So Little M and Aimée, what are your thoughts on Jon and Kate's recent break up?"

"Who?"

"Excuse me. Did you say six babies all at once?"

"Oh ya, she's that bossy lady, right?"

"No, not bossy, M, just assertive."

"And there is nothing wrong with an assertive woman!"

"Whatever you say, darling Aimée."

"I heard he was cheating on her."

"Sweetheart, they were just friends."

"Well, any cheating man deserves a swift kick up the..."

"Now, now Darling, settle down. We are still in front of the cameras."

"Did we hear someone say cookies?????"

I'm a believer!

2009-08-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

Some people say we kind of look alike. I'm not so sure!

But we both do love ice caps at Timmy's.

What is really neat is we have the same palms. My palms have an insane amount of wrinkles/lines going everywhere. Although skeptical, I have always wanted to go to a palm reader. How would she/he interpret all these lines? What destiny lays ahead? I often compared palms with other people to see if anyone had palms like me. Not a chance. That is, until Aimée came along. Our palms are quite identical. I now believe whole heartedly in palm reading. Our palms indicate as clear as day that we were destined for each other all along.

Great Pool/BBQ Party!

2009-08-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Bev and Ellie, we had a fantastic afternoon yesterday. Although both are from the Toronto area, they managed a gathering here of some Ottawa families who have adopted from Vietnam. It was a great success! Awesome work ladies! It was so comforting to talk with everyone and listen to their experiences. Their stories were so familiar, yet exciting at the same time. I look forward to meeting up with these people again very soon.

Cottage Fun!

2009-08-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

" Oh ooooooh!"

I LOVE that laugh.

Juli and Aimée

"On the good ship lollipop."

"And voilà!"

He who laughs, last!

2009-08-07T17:56:00.000-07:00

Here we are almost mid-August and I have not done half the things I had hoped to do this summer. It's time to start thinking about school. Isn't that always the way? I can't even live blissfully in denial because every darn store left, right and center, has its obnoxious back to school display assaulting you at the front door.

I am accomplishing very little on my to-do list (i.e. clean garage, paint trim, reorganize our closets, clean and reorganize laundry/storage room, pull weeds...)So what have we been doing then, you ask? Well, we have enjoyed swimming and socializing with good friends at Ann's house. We have been just hanging around home. I managed to read an entire book that didn't involve animal noises or Elmo. We have had many play dates and picnics with friends.

This week Cindy, Hannah, Aimée and I met up with Samantha and her boys for a play date in the park. We had a quick visit with Judith, then went to a Vietnamese restaurant for a yummy lunch.

Auntie Ju really knows how to play "Cops and Robbers".

Go big or go home as Auntie Ju would say.

Liam hosted his very first BYOT(bring your own toddler) Cottage Party. I think his mommy may have helped him out a little with mailing the invites. It was so nice to be out in cottage country. Aimée really enjoys the outdoors.

Aimée meets her first toad.

"You have to kiss many toads before you find your true prince charming."(Perhaps, this is why your maman is still single today, Sweetheart.)

Aimée giggled and squealed with delight in the lake. It was definitely the highlight of her day.

We have also done some shopping this week. I am trying to find a few outfits for school. Believe it or not, Aimée LOVES to shop. Really. She loves chatting with people, feeling the fabrics, looking at the shiny packaging, riding in the buggy, pulling things off shelves and playing with my wallet and credit cards. The other day she had me peeing myself laughing. She was oohing and ahhing in the lingerie section. Literally! She was letting everybody know how much she liked the feel of silky panties. She then picked out the BIGGEST and brightest brassier she could find. She twirled with it, danced with it, sang to it. It was so cute.She loved that big brassier.
Until of course she discovered the jewelery.

Today, Aimée has reached another milestone. She is very pleased with herself, as is her maman. Miss Aimée knows how to correctly utilize toilet tissue.

You can use it to wipe your nose.....

or wipe more discreet body parts.

She had me laughing all evening as she went through almost an entire toilet paper roll. She kept bunching up wads of toilet tissue and stuffing them between her little legs. I of course ran for the camera and was killing myself laughing.Hopefully, Aimée will not feel the need to demonstrate her new skills in public. Can you just imagine Aimée pulling a napkin off the table in a restaurant?

She is now observing me and taking absolutely everything in.

I really have to start watching myself and perhaps closing the bathroom door.

Aimée simply cracks me up every single day. I love "ma petite mademoiselle" with all my heart.

The Many Faces of Aimée

2009-08-02T05:36:00.000-07:00

Sweet... silly...
Intrigued...

Daring...

Delighted....

Unimpressed...

Angry... (aka pissed)

Cautious....

Hopeful...
Pensive....Smug...

Happy...

Hello Vietnam

2009-07-31T18:12:00.000-07:00

A friend had me listen to Hello Vietnam sung by Pham Quynh Anh the other day. The song is sung in English, French and Vietnamese. It is a song about a young woman longing to know about her Vietnamese heritage. It is beautiful. I wanted to share it with you. Click below.

Hello Vietnam Video

Living The Good Life

2009-07-20T16:37:00.000-07:00

No, in case some of you got the wrong idea, this blog is not about me renewing my gym membership at the Goodlife. It is about simply enjoying uneventful moments. Our lives have been moving at a much slower pace these last few weeks and it has been marvelous. We went to North Bay for a bit to visit my parents and friends and enjoy some good old northern relaxation. Aimée is very happy at my parents. She eats better, sleeps better and for the most part, even poops better. She runs from one person to another while laying on the cuteness act pretty thick. She loves the attention and milks it for all its worth.

From the time I brought Aimée home, I knew my parents would love her. What I didn't know was that they would fall in love with her as deeply and as intensely as I did. It thrills me to see them truly enjoy her as I do.

Mémère and Aimée on the carousel

The Choo Choo Ride is a must for all North Bay tourists!!!!!

Because every girl deserves their own pink princess laptop!

Aimée felt compelled to do a bit of "white sock" dusting at Mémère and Pépère's house.
On Sunday we attended Vanh and Max's very first birthday. A special "Hurray!" goes out to the birthday boys. Aimée was quite puzzled with the party paraphernalia though.

"What the heck do you want me to do with THIS?"

WANTED: Dead or Alive!

2009-07-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Itsy Bitsy Spider

Mr Bitsy was last seen climbing a water spout. If I get my hands on him, he will have more than just the rain to worry about. Aimée woke up the other morning with five spider bites on her face. I took her crib apart trying to find the creep, but he was long gone.

Mr Bitsy, you can`t hide forever! We will find you! And when we do, you can kiss the sun goodbye!

Our TDH Family

2009-07-10T06:03:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to Kingston to visit Jacqueline, Jim and Sadie. We were treated like royalty. They are such a generous, kind and loving family. I treasure our friendship. Aimée, Hannah and Sadie were all in the Hoa Binh orphanage at the same time. How neat it will be for the girls to grow up knowing each other!

Playing in Sadie's amazing tree house!

On Sunday, we attended TDH's annual Picnic at Sandbanks. It is so cool to see so many families just like ours. Aimée really loved the water. She got so excited every time a wave would splash against her legs.

Happy Days Are Here Again...

2009-07-02T05:37:00.000-07:00

"Happy days are here again
The skies above are clear again
So let's sing a song of cheer again
Happy days are here again! "

At The Water Park

"Aimée, your mother seriously dresses you funny! What on earth do you have on your knees? Sockets??? Good heavens!!"

Aimée really really wanted to push that button.

My fearless girl!

Break time!

And she's back!

Canada Day

Aimée and M.C. (an old friend from University).

I already know that Aimée will be the player picking dandelions

out on the soccer field during a game.

Yahoo!

2009-06-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

School is out!

Summer is here!

No more tattles

'Til school next year!

Yahoo!

This past week has been very busy There are so many things that have to get done the last week of school. It is a fun week with many social activities for students and teachers, but it is also a very exhausting week.

Last Sunday, Aimée had her baptismal. I can't say it went as well as I might have hoped... but it was o.k. First of all, I had caught the dreaded flu virus that had been circulating in the grade one classes for 2 weeks. Thank heavens my parents were down for the weekend. They kindly helped out with Aimée while I was barfing my brains out! This is why I look a little pasty in the pictures. Aimée was very very squirmy and was not terribly impressed that the deacon poured water over her head. I think she was also a little annoyed that she couldn't play a little in the water.

Aimée and Hannah had the opportunity to dress up for the first time. I am not sure who had more fun... the mommies or the little girls?

Tinker Hannah

Princess Aimée

Aimée was soooo pleased with herself. Without a word of exaggeration, she kept kissing herself in the mirror.

My father replaced my old 15 litre toilet to an efficient 6 litre toilet. Thanks so much Dad! The toilet, (if you can get excited about a toilet) is awesome. The reviews say that it can virtually flush down just about anything. This is very good as Aimée loves to experiment with the toilet. I just have to make sure she doesn't get sucked down the drain!

Why not put a picture of your new toilet on your blog?

We went to CHEO's Teddy Bear Picnic on Saturday. There was so much to see and do.

Aimée brought her teddy bear for a check-up.

The doctors say Bear will be just fine.

They wrapped his belly with gauze and gave him some honey medication.

Aimée loves carousels.

Such a big girl!

All worn out from all the fun.

Lots and lots of new toys from Tracey and her boys. Thanks Tracey!

Aimée does not like hot weather. Nor does she like wearing hats. I can't help but wonder what she would do if she was still in Vietnam.

Have I mentioned recently how much I love this little girl?

Hot Fun In the Summer Time!

2009-06-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

Now that Aimée and I are feeling better, we are having tons of fun in the sunshine. Thank you so much for all of your encouragement and nose wiping tips!

Park Fun!

School BBQ Fun

(playing with money is always fun)

Pool and Eating Fun!

Picnic Fun!

Best of Friends Fun

Sand, Snot and Student Report Cards

2009-06-07T16:17:00.001-07:00

There you have it, our week in five words or less!

Aimée caught a nasty flu from daycare. Her eyes and nose have been producing really nasty stuff. We are both quite exhausted because she is not sleeping very well. She has been looking so pitiful, especially in the morning when her entire face is covered in dry snot (even her eyebrows and eyelashes are covered in the stuff). If you have any tips on cleaning a screaming baby's snotty face please let me know ASAP.
Poor Baby Girl!

We have been still trying to get out every day either to the park or playing in our backyard. I have been sweeping up buckets and buckets of sand from the bathroom, living room, basement, crib, bathtub, and so on. I love watching Aimée happily play in the sand; but, I cannot stand the gritty feeling it causes on my feet when it is sprinkled all over the house afterwards.

Hannah blowing kisses

Last week, was probably the toughest week since I have been back at work. I think I may be fighting the same flu as Aimée. Whether it is the flu or simply being a working mom, I have been absolutely exhausted. I feel just like I did with my mono a year ago, except now I have the added bonus of being achy all over. I am overwhelmed. There are so many things that are needing to get done both at home and at work. The most pressing one being Report cards. They are due in a couple of days. I am trying to ignore all the things that need to be done at home until I get more sleep. Aimée does seem to be on the mend. Hopefully, she will be sleeping better very soon.

Here are two pictures taking of her in her high chair. They were taken exactly a year apart. Boy, has Aimée grown!!!!

June 7, 2008

June 7, 2009

May 26th, 2008.

2009-05-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

A year ago yesterday, Aimée and I officially became a family. I have been on an incredible high reminiscing over every single detail of those first few days with Aimée. It meant so much to me that my mother was here to celebrate with us.
We celebrated our first "Gotcha Day" in a way we never dreamed possible. We met up with Hoa Binh's orphanage director, Thuy(TDH in country facilitator), TDH staff, familiar adoptive families and a group of special delegates from Vietnam for a picnic that just happened to be organized by TDH for May 26. Between you and me, I secretly told Aimée that all these people were really here for OUR special day. But really, could it be any more perfect!!!! It was so awesome to visit with everyone there!
Last evening, we had a special Vietnamese meal for dinner and shared drinks and cake with friends. Just when I thought our day could not get any sweeter it did. Hannah called Aimée by her name for the first time. "Maymay!" It deeply touched my heart. In that moment, I finally found the answer to a nagging question. On occasion, I have worried and wondered if my love alone was enough for Aimée. Hannah reminded me that Aimée has so much more than that. She has a large number of tremendously loving friends and family in her little life. All of whom she would not know if things were any other way. I went to bed last night full of peace and pride. Aimée and I are doing terrific. She is a very happy little girl full of love. I know this is where she belongs.

If there was any doubt as to whether the Vietnamese

officials really cared about the children...

Jacqueline and Sadie

Hélène, Manon and Dorinda from TDH

Feeding Maman

Feeding Mémère

Girls from Hoa Binh with director and delegates.

Hannah, Cindy and Aimée and I

Thuy and representative from the People's Committee

Cindy, Grandma and Hannah

Samantha, Woody and the Adorable Twosome.

Sadie and Jim (one of my favourite pictures of the day)

Dena and Sarah

Saying goodbye to Thuy

Bye Bye from Mr Luu (orphanage director)

She Works Hard For The Money

2009-05-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

Yahoo! I survived my first week as a "working-outside-the-home-mama". It was not nearly as difficult as I thought (knock on wood). Sure, I am tired at night, but who isn't? I think I am doing FANTASTIC. Perhaps not everyone would agree, though. The other day, a little boy in my class asked me if I was tired. "No, not really", I said. To which he replied: "You know, you have some black under your eyes". Only from the mouths of babes.....

Aimée would like very much to be at school with me. I tried to pull some strings and get her a job as administrative assistant. So what if her feet cannot touch the floor. I don't remember that being in the job description.

I personally think Aimée would make a brilliant Administrative assistant, don't you?

My first Mother's Day was superb. I was thrilled to finally be able to celebrate this day with my daughter. And believe you me, I was totally spoiled. Apparently, Aimée had arranged/shopped with many of my friends (without my knowledge) for gifts for her maman. Aimée is very good at surprises and keeping a tight lip on things. She didn't even give away one little hint.

"Bonne Fête des Mères, Maman!!! Je t'aime!"

Aimée's first week at daycare went better than I could ever have imagined. She is very happy there. She is napping and eating without the slightest fuss. That's even better than what she does here. Bravo Bébé! She has one of the "blankies" Kathryn has made for her at daycare. I am so relieved that she has one to comfort her there. I can't thank Kathryn enough for them. Aimée loves both of them very much and is attached to them.

Here, she is snuggled up to the other one in her crib.

In case any of you were worried, Aimée and Hannah still get lots of playtime after work.

For you Aimée...

2009-05-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

In two and a half weeks (May 26) it will be one year since Aimée was adopted. I wanted to make a video commemorating this amazing journey before our fist "Gotcha Day" (adoption day anniversary). With me going back to work on Monday, I knew I had to seize the moment and get it done. The video brings back so many powerful and wonderful emotions. I look forward to one day sharing this video with my beautiful daughter. I hope she will see how much she was wanted and loved... even before we met.

(Don't forget to pause the music in the pink box on the right hand side of your screen.)

For you, Aimée

Mother of the Year!

2009-05-06T05:42:00.000-07:00

My sister caught this on the news last night on CNNBC. She forwarded the link to me immediately. (Thanks Den) Although I was not aware of the news release... I am not surprised really. It just comes to me naturally. That is just the way God made me... loving, nurturing, sweet and thoughtful.

Here is the link Mother of the Year Award . Don't forget to pause the music on the right hand side of your screen.

Doggy Heaven

2009-05-01T15:55:00.000-07:00

Casey has gone to doggy heaven today. My heart aches. I hope it is a place with unlimited tennis balls, chewy toys that never lose their squeak, and endless green grass.

I hope there are piles of warm fresh clothes (just pulled out of the dryer) waiting for Casey to dig into and cozy up to. I hope there are Tim Horton Drive threws with free Timbits at every corner.
I hope there are lakes she can swim in, squirrels to chase and a bazillion pink soft Frisbees soaring through the sky.

I hope she knows how much I loved her. Casey has giving me so many funny and wonderful memories. I got her when I was still in university. She was just 10 weeks old and the runt of the litter. Can you believe that I used to sneak her in my coat on O.C. Transpo and bring her to class with me? As good friends do, Casey has gotten me through some really tough times. I feel so incredibly grateful for the unconditional love she has given me over the years.

Aimée will miss her partner in crime.

Bye bye Casey! Be a good girl!

And a bah bah here, and a bah bah there....

2009-04-30T17:09:00.000-07:00

Aimée and I are making the most of our last days together before I have to return to work. This morning Aimée had a playdate at the daycare she will be soon attending. She likes the other kids and really enjoys being there. I feel very lucky and relieved to know that she will be well loved and taken care of while I am at work. This afternoon we went to Valley View Farm with some friends.

My little sunflower

"Choo chooing" with Kathryn

Posing with Morgan

"Woohooing!!!"

I have been watching a lot of America's Next Top Model and applied all that I have learnt in this next photo. Fortunately, my good friends are happy to comply to my direction.

Tyra would be proud!

Aimée's teeth are still hurting her. :( She won't take any teething toys to chew on but she will gnaw on a stroller.

"Can we take them home, Maman?"

"I love you, Bah, Bahs!"

Jo-ann and Little M with Aimée and I

Digging, tossing and pouring sand with good buddy Little M

And I ask, could you walk away without getting a picture of yourself and this backdrop?

Aimée is still working on her walking.

We are also enjoying our time with Hannah and Cindy. We like to go to the park, play in their backyard, walk to Subway for dinner, chase duckies at the pool or hang out in our backyard and play with our low budget sand and water centre.

Have I mentioned that Aimée's teeth are really hurting her??????

Here she is, this time, gnawing on a plastic boat.

Sweet little Hannah

Chez Mémère et Pépère!

2009-04-26T10:02:00.001-07:00

We spent the last week in North Bay visiting my parents. We had a really nice time despite the yucky weather. Aimée has no problems making herself at home. She had taken over Mémère and Pépère's house the moment we walked in.

Life is good!

Really good!

Aimée is snuggling with Mémère in this next picture. Her eye teeth are STILL coming out (they are taking forever) and they are hurting her very much. She is often rubbing her gums with her thumb and chewing her palm. She is also slightly on the grumpy side.

Mémère and Pépère brought Aimée (back from the U.S.) her very own Cabbage Patch baby with adoption papers and all. They got her from the Babyland General Hospital.

Mémère saw lots of babies before she found the perfect one for Aimée.

Here is baby Arianna with her new mommy Aimée.

"Aimée, you have to be gentle with Baby Arianna! "

We got to visit with our longtime friend Nicole, her family and her chickens!

Aimée playing the piano with Nicole.

Like all good things, our visit came to an end. We were sad to go home.

Only two more weeks left of my parental leave. On May 11th, I am back in the classroom.