We got two emails today - one from our agency and one from a company in China that sends packages to your waiting child (since the items are purchased and mailed within China, the orphanage doesn't have to worry about customs duties). Both gave us some updated info on Heng Ai. First from our agency:
1. What is his/her nickname or what do they call him/her?HENG AI
2. Is he/she in foster care? If so, how long?YES. ABOUT 2 YEARS AGO.
3. Can he/she walk or bear weight on his/her legs yet?YES. SHE CAN WALK VERY WELL.
4. What is his/her current health status (weak, sickly, healthy)? - VERY GOOD HEALTH.
5. What is him/her personality like?ACTIVE AND OUTGOING.
6. What does he/she eat other than a bottle? EAT AS NORMAL.
7. How would you best describe him/her? A VERY SMART GIRL.
I was very relieved that she is walking well - that takes crutches off our packing list. All good info, but the RedThread company's email was slightly more informative:
height :97cm
head :50cm
chest :51cm
weight :15kg
left foot:14cm
right foot:16cm
She is called heng Ai or Ai Ai
She is a very naughty ,outgoing and smart girl ,the nanny told me that if Ai Ai and ai sheng (a boy,he is going to be adopted by another american family too,he is 6 ) are in the orphange together ,they these naughty kids can turn the orphange over one time ,the orphange love these two kids very much!!!
I will mail your package out in these couple days and Ai Ai will get her cake on her birthday too,love,Ann
I know the word "naughty" should strike this mother's heart with fear, but I'm just so happy to get some information on her that I don't care! I was able to contact the little boy's adoptive mother, and we'll be able to keep tabs on each other - they expect to travel before we do, and if they could get a picture of the two together, that would be priceless. I love the internet! And in reading this other family's blog, I was inspired by her oldest son's cross country photos and dragged myself away from the computer to go out and run. It was only three miles, but considering I haven't really run at all since the marathon 3 weeks ago, it was a small victory. It was sunny and beautiful and the dairy wasn't too stinky. Pleasant run! Except that I had images in my head of Esther and HengAi, two scary-smart girls, getting into all sorts of mischief. I can hardly wait! Yes, feel free to remind me of this when I'm pulling my greying hair out from all their antics. Sure, remind me how I WANTED this. Just don't expect me to thank you for reminding me!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Happy Birthday Dear Caleb
Happy, happy birthday to my dear boy Caleb. Nine years old! Wow. I can't believe the years go so fast. I still remember how scared I was when I found out you were coming (your brother Josh was only 6 months old), but as soon as I heard your little heartbeat, I fell instantly in love and all doubts and fears were gone. I am so grateful that you gave me the chance to experience the miracle of childbirth, and I have no doubt that God planned for you to come at just the right time. You were such a sweet, happy little boy, and you still have that in you (most of the time). You are an exceptionally bright and curious guy, and I know that you will learn so much in your life. I love that you get so excited when you discover things and how they work, and that you are absolutely convinced of your ability to puzzle it out. I love your determination, and your refusal to give up, even when I beg you to! I love your sense of humor and your memory for a good joke. I love how you watch out for the lonely and afraid. And I love how you still enjoy snuggling up and being held once in a while. But most of all, I love that you are mine.
Last days in DC
Just a quick blog to finish out our DC trip: On Saturday, we actually got up and going and down to DC in time to buy tickets for the long-anticipated (by Caleb, anyway) International Spy Museum. These weren’t cheap either: $18 for Mike and $16 each for Josh and Caleb, but if you think we were going to let this opportunity pass us by… Besides, we know Caleb has a looooong memory, and he may be involved in choosing which nursing home we’ll get stuck in someday. So, we called it a retirement investment, of sorts. After securing aforementioned precious tickets we walked the five blocks or so towards the White House where we were to meet Josh’s birthmom, Colbie. It was pretty darn chilly, and after passing a McD***lds, I steered my family right in and up to the counter to buy some hot chocolate (let me note that I detest all items sold by that particular establishment, unless I have just run 22 miles and want to eat the greasiest thing possible, or am hankering for hot chocolate, which is actually pretty decent). The lady at the counter gave me a bizarre look and informed me that they don’t HAVE hot chocolate. What? I thought their menus were constant, unchanging, an oasis of permanence amidst a sea of change? Or I guess that would be DESERT of change – oases don’t usually occur in seas. Whatever. We did pass a Starbucks-type joint, but I was too cheap to fork over $5/cup for 6 people so we stopped at a little kiosk outside the White House Visitors’ Center. Best buck-fifty hot chocolate I’ve had. Better, even, than McD***lds.
Anyway, Colbie had scored us some tickets to tour the White House gardens, and it was interesting to see the trees that past presidents had planted. Some of the later ones had photos of the pres and first lady poised over shovels, attempting to look like they were actually going to do some digging. I didn’t buy it, I mean the first ladies had on heels and pant suits, and they were gold plated shovels, for crying out loud. After the tour (which had some pretty intense security, as you might imagine) we headed toward Colbie’s apartment, where she had lunch planned for us. I am unable, especially here in a “public” place, to express the respect and love I have for this amazing woman. I sat here for a while just trying to put a sentence together about how grateful I am for her and the role she has played in our lives, and I just can’t find the words. I hope she knows what she means to all of us. She truly is family, and I can’t say anything to top that.
After lunch, Mike, Josh, Caleb, and Colbie went to the spy museum, while Jason, Esther and I headed across the street to the Smithsonian’s American Art and Portrait Gallery. It was basically a B plan for me, as I didn’t really want to go to the spy museum (especially not for 18 bucks) and I knew Esther would sleep in her stroller, and it was just right there. Wow. I spent nearly 3 hours there and I could easily have spent another 3 and not been satisfied. I don’t consider myself an art critic, I didn’t really study it much other than a few classes in college, but I have to say I found my favorite place in DC. There were fantastic portraits of well known Americans, as well as some bronze statues (mostly just the heads) that seemed so close to having some kind of living consciousness. It was amazing to be surrounded by people who have played such an enormous role in our history, and I was almost humbled to be in their presence. And that was only one floor. Jason gamely tried to keep up but after a half an hour he found a nice padded bench and took a nap. Oh well. I thoroughly enjoyed it and only regret that I only saw half. I was so sad when the spy-er’s came to get me, and I can’t wait to go back to finish that museum someday. Sigh.
We reluctantly parted from Colbie and returned a little early to start dinner and the big pack-up. We were able to share dessert with Grandma and Grandpa, and then it was bed. G & G invited the kids to come over in the morning for breakfast after getting ready and that was so helpful in getting them somewhere where they couldn’t unpack as we packed. We managed to get out the door by 9:30, catch the train to the bus, which took us to the airport, and made it with time to spare. The only scary part was arriving at the metro station/bus stop and Mike realizing that he was not going to make it through the half hour bus ride without some sort of bathroom stop, but alas, the metro’s restroom was not functioning and there was nowhere else to go. He was desperate (and by now Caleb and Jason had to go too) so they finally had a taxi take them to somewhere. $11 later, they returned refreshed and emptied and we were off.
All in all, it was a wonderful trip, and we are so glad we were able to spend some time with loved ones there. It was an “AWESOME” trip, and the kids were great.
Anyway, Colbie had scored us some tickets to tour the White House gardens, and it was interesting to see the trees that past presidents had planted. Some of the later ones had photos of the pres and first lady poised over shovels, attempting to look like they were actually going to do some digging. I didn’t buy it, I mean the first ladies had on heels and pant suits, and they were gold plated shovels, for crying out loud. After the tour (which had some pretty intense security, as you might imagine) we headed toward Colbie’s apartment, where she had lunch planned for us. I am unable, especially here in a “public” place, to express the respect and love I have for this amazing woman. I sat here for a while just trying to put a sentence together about how grateful I am for her and the role she has played in our lives, and I just can’t find the words. I hope she knows what she means to all of us. She truly is family, and I can’t say anything to top that.
After lunch, Mike, Josh, Caleb, and Colbie went to the spy museum, while Jason, Esther and I headed across the street to the Smithsonian’s American Art and Portrait Gallery. It was basically a B plan for me, as I didn’t really want to go to the spy museum (especially not for 18 bucks) and I knew Esther would sleep in her stroller, and it was just right there. Wow. I spent nearly 3 hours there and I could easily have spent another 3 and not been satisfied. I don’t consider myself an art critic, I didn’t really study it much other than a few classes in college, but I have to say I found my favorite place in DC. There were fantastic portraits of well known Americans, as well as some bronze statues (mostly just the heads) that seemed so close to having some kind of living consciousness. It was amazing to be surrounded by people who have played such an enormous role in our history, and I was almost humbled to be in their presence. And that was only one floor. Jason gamely tried to keep up but after a half an hour he found a nice padded bench and took a nap. Oh well. I thoroughly enjoyed it and only regret that I only saw half. I was so sad when the spy-er’s came to get me, and I can’t wait to go back to finish that museum someday. Sigh.
We reluctantly parted from Colbie and returned a little early to start dinner and the big pack-up. We were able to share dessert with Grandma and Grandpa, and then it was bed. G & G invited the kids to come over in the morning for breakfast after getting ready and that was so helpful in getting them somewhere where they couldn’t unpack as we packed. We managed to get out the door by 9:30, catch the train to the bus, which took us to the airport, and made it with time to spare. The only scary part was arriving at the metro station/bus stop and Mike realizing that he was not going to make it through the half hour bus ride without some sort of bathroom stop, but alas, the metro’s restroom was not functioning and there was nowhere else to go. He was desperate (and by now Caleb and Jason had to go too) so they finally had a taxi take them to somewhere. $11 later, they returned refreshed and emptied and we were off.
All in all, it was a wonderful trip, and we are so glad we were able to spend some time with loved ones there. It was an “AWESOME” trip, and the kids were great.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Connection problems... Thursday/Friday
I had this fabulous post all written out, but never could get a decent internet connection, so here it is (sans photos, as I have misplaced my card reader and I'm too *&#% tired to look for it tonight).
It turns out we didn’t need no stinkin’ tickets – at least not for the Holocaust Museum or the Bureau of Engraving. We seem to get a later start every day, and yesterday it cost us. We straggled out of bed and finally got out of the apartment by about 10 am, went to the National Aquarium, which was a lot like the aquarium in Salt Lake City, and that is no compliment! We have been spoiled by having experienced the Monterrey Bay Aquarium, and we haven’t found anything yet that can even come close. Still, we had high hopes, it being called the National Aquarium and all. Quite disappointing, especially since it is one of the few places here that charges admission. We then went to the food court at the Ronald Regan Int’l Trade Center and tried in vain to have a quick lunch - you just can’t do that with six people all wanting something different, and only Mama holding the money. So, we just missed having enough time to take the Engraving and Printing tour, and decided to spend the 45 or so minutes before our scheduled Washington Monument tour checking out the Holocaust Museum. I had been looking forward to experiencing this museum, but after going through the children’s exhibit (Daniel’s Story) I was depressed and had no desire to see more after we came back from the Washington Monument. Odd, since I love all books and movies associated with the Holocaust (favorites: Night, The Hiding Place, Life is Beautiful, The Pianist) and I have always been fascinated with that time in history. We saw a short video about the ideas and politics that lead up to the Holocaust, and it mentioned that many of the main religions are rethinking the pronoucements of their church fathers about the Jews. It mentioned that one church body was openly disputing the words of Martin Luther, and I was so sad that he, of all men, would disparage the Jews, but then I realized I was thinking about Martin Luther KING, not Martin Luther. Two very different men! I’m disappointed now that I didn’t tough it out, but Caleb and Jason weren’t too psyched about it either, so just Mike and Josh returned, while the rest of us headed to the Freer Gallery. It has a huge collection of Asian arts, and all in all it was very interesting. Esther blissfully slept through the whole thing – this poor girl hasn’t had a nap in a bed (or even in a fully horizontal position) for a whole week now and she is still doing so well. We are all doing rather well, considering we are all short on sleep, and it gives me hope that we won’t totally regret taking them to China with us next year.
Anyway, the Washington Monument was interesting, though we were all disappointed that they wouldn’t let us take the stairs down. I especially wanted to see the engraved block donated by Greece to honor the modern father of democracy, but the very crowded and full of very tall people elevator only slowed down long enough for everyone else taller than 5’9” see a few blocks. Oh well. We split up to the aforementioned museums, met back up together, noshed on a few bags of chips and popcorn, then headed out to walk the long walk to the Lincoln memorial. On the way is the incredibly impressive and inspiring WWII memorial, and probably the most reverent and respected place we’ve been so far. The architecture was amazing, but what I loved best were the quotes etched on the walls. Beautifully done memorial. We also walked past the Vietnam memorial, impressive mainly because of the sheer numbers of names etched in the wall. We didn’t notice a register until we passed through it, but we found the names of two Housley’s listed in the register. Next time we’ll try to find them on the wall and do a graphite rubbing. I’d also like to find the name on my POW bracelet that I got years ago. Finally on to the huge Lincoln memorial, and it was a chaotic and crowded as the WWII memorial was quite and respectful. Huge groups of rowdy students crowded the steps, but thankfully stayed mainly outside, so that the inside was a little quieter. Again, a great, great man who shaped our nation and was a moral beacon for his people. At the gift shop I purchased a copy of his Gettysburg address, along with the Declaration of Independence and Constitution that I think will look nice when framed.
We finally made it back around to the National Mall and rode the metro home, ate dinner at another food court at the mall in Wheaton (near Kensington, where we are staying) and dropped off into bed, exhausted. Thus the reason for the lack of a post yesterday.
Today we again took forever to get going, and didn’t get to the National Zoo until almost noon. We met Colbie there, and actually got through the whole thing by closing time at 6pm. We saw so many cool things, and saw more aquarium-type creatures at the invertebrate house than we did at the Aquarium. Giant and red pandas, a very loud lion, tigers, cheetahs, gorillas and orang utans, elephants, hippos, capybaras, komodo dragons, etc. Well worth the trip, and all for free! I found the perfect birthday gift for Caleb (b-day is Monday): recycled paper journal made from elephant poop! The label assures it is odor free, and it doesn’t look like elephant poop, but he’ll love being able to tell everyone that is what it’s made of. We stopped in Chinatown for dinner, and while it was nice to see Chinese characters on shops, there were VERY few Asians in sight. We gave Jason the task of asking a Chinese person for a recommendation on where to eat dinner, and we had to walk for a while just to find someone! He did accomplish his task, and led us to a nice, crowded (that’s always a good sign) restaurant where we finally ate something other than food court offerings. Delicious!!! Josh and I even tried the calamari – it was okay, but one taste was satisfying enough, and we stuck to the curried chicken and beef with snow peas. Going home on the metro is always exciting, as the kids seem to find their second (and silliest) wind and entertain/annoy all the other passengers. Jason has been tutoring me on Chinese phrases (darned if I cannot remember tomato sauce for the life of me) and I give him a new vocabulary word each day. So far we’ve done intriguing, patriotic, spy, integrity, and today was persistent. He was so cute with Esther today, and didn’t sleep even once on the metro. I think this vacation just might help him gain some new sleep habits. Let’s hope so.
Okay, I’ve babbled enough, the laundry is almost done, and we have another big day tomorrow, trying to fit in every must-see thing in our last day of sight-seeing. Sigh. I’m going to need a vacation when I get home.
It turns out we didn’t need no stinkin’ tickets – at least not for the Holocaust Museum or the Bureau of Engraving. We seem to get a later start every day, and yesterday it cost us. We straggled out of bed and finally got out of the apartment by about 10 am, went to the National Aquarium, which was a lot like the aquarium in Salt Lake City, and that is no compliment! We have been spoiled by having experienced the Monterrey Bay Aquarium, and we haven’t found anything yet that can even come close. Still, we had high hopes, it being called the National Aquarium and all. Quite disappointing, especially since it is one of the few places here that charges admission. We then went to the food court at the Ronald Regan Int’l Trade Center and tried in vain to have a quick lunch - you just can’t do that with six people all wanting something different, and only Mama holding the money. So, we just missed having enough time to take the Engraving and Printing tour, and decided to spend the 45 or so minutes before our scheduled Washington Monument tour checking out the Holocaust Museum. I had been looking forward to experiencing this museum, but after going through the children’s exhibit (Daniel’s Story) I was depressed and had no desire to see more after we came back from the Washington Monument. Odd, since I love all books and movies associated with the Holocaust (favorites: Night, The Hiding Place, Life is Beautiful, The Pianist) and I have always been fascinated with that time in history. We saw a short video about the ideas and politics that lead up to the Holocaust, and it mentioned that many of the main religions are rethinking the pronoucements of their church fathers about the Jews. It mentioned that one church body was openly disputing the words of Martin Luther, and I was so sad that he, of all men, would disparage the Jews, but then I realized I was thinking about Martin Luther KING, not Martin Luther. Two very different men! I’m disappointed now that I didn’t tough it out, but Caleb and Jason weren’t too psyched about it either, so just Mike and Josh returned, while the rest of us headed to the Freer Gallery. It has a huge collection of Asian arts, and all in all it was very interesting. Esther blissfully slept through the whole thing – this poor girl hasn’t had a nap in a bed (or even in a fully horizontal position) for a whole week now and she is still doing so well. We are all doing rather well, considering we are all short on sleep, and it gives me hope that we won’t totally regret taking them to China with us next year.
Anyway, the Washington Monument was interesting, though we were all disappointed that they wouldn’t let us take the stairs down. I especially wanted to see the engraved block donated by Greece to honor the modern father of democracy, but the very crowded and full of very tall people elevator only slowed down long enough for everyone else taller than 5’9” see a few blocks. Oh well. We split up to the aforementioned museums, met back up together, noshed on a few bags of chips and popcorn, then headed out to walk the long walk to the Lincoln memorial. On the way is the incredibly impressive and inspiring WWII memorial, and probably the most reverent and respected place we’ve been so far. The architecture was amazing, but what I loved best were the quotes etched on the walls. Beautifully done memorial. We also walked past the Vietnam memorial, impressive mainly because of the sheer numbers of names etched in the wall. We didn’t notice a register until we passed through it, but we found the names of two Housley’s listed in the register. Next time we’ll try to find them on the wall and do a graphite rubbing. I’d also like to find the name on my POW bracelet that I got years ago. Finally on to the huge Lincoln memorial, and it was a chaotic and crowded as the WWII memorial was quite and respectful. Huge groups of rowdy students crowded the steps, but thankfully stayed mainly outside, so that the inside was a little quieter. Again, a great, great man who shaped our nation and was a moral beacon for his people. At the gift shop I purchased a copy of his Gettysburg address, along with the Declaration of Independence and Constitution that I think will look nice when framed.
We finally made it back around to the National Mall and rode the metro home, ate dinner at another food court at the mall in Wheaton (near Kensington, where we are staying) and dropped off into bed, exhausted. Thus the reason for the lack of a post yesterday.
Today we again took forever to get going, and didn’t get to the National Zoo until almost noon. We met Colbie there, and actually got through the whole thing by closing time at 6pm. We saw so many cool things, and saw more aquarium-type creatures at the invertebrate house than we did at the Aquarium. Giant and red pandas, a very loud lion, tigers, cheetahs, gorillas and orang utans, elephants, hippos, capybaras, komodo dragons, etc. Well worth the trip, and all for free! I found the perfect birthday gift for Caleb (b-day is Monday): recycled paper journal made from elephant poop! The label assures it is odor free, and it doesn’t look like elephant poop, but he’ll love being able to tell everyone that is what it’s made of. We stopped in Chinatown for dinner, and while it was nice to see Chinese characters on shops, there were VERY few Asians in sight. We gave Jason the task of asking a Chinese person for a recommendation on where to eat dinner, and we had to walk for a while just to find someone! He did accomplish his task, and led us to a nice, crowded (that’s always a good sign) restaurant where we finally ate something other than food court offerings. Delicious!!! Josh and I even tried the calamari – it was okay, but one taste was satisfying enough, and we stuck to the curried chicken and beef with snow peas. Going home on the metro is always exciting, as the kids seem to find their second (and silliest) wind and entertain/annoy all the other passengers. Jason has been tutoring me on Chinese phrases (darned if I cannot remember tomato sauce for the life of me) and I give him a new vocabulary word each day. So far we’ve done intriguing, patriotic, spy, integrity, and today was persistent. He was so cute with Esther today, and didn’t sleep even once on the metro. I think this vacation just might help him gain some new sleep habits. Let’s hope so.
Okay, I’ve babbled enough, the laundry is almost done, and we have another big day tomorrow, trying to fit in every must-see thing in our last day of sight-seeing. Sigh. I’m going to need a vacation when I get home.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Tickets? We ain't got no stinkin' tickets
Well, we had to change plans again, as all the places we intended to go today issue same day, time specific tickets. Like we can get our whole family to the ticket booth by 8am! We can't even get them out of bed by then! So, after taking Jason to a high school in Bethesda for the PSAT test (which was part of the plan), Mike and I spent a few hours at the LDS temple while Mike's parents watched the kids (which also was part of the plan). Before you gasp and wonder what kind of foster parents would make their child take a test while on vacation, let me just say that this was ALL Jason's doing! He even suggested he stay home to take the test at our own HS, but I reminded him of his obligation to travel as a family (I believe my exact words were, "Not a chance, Buster! We already paid for your ticket - there's no way you're getting out of this one!"). It was a lovely morning at the temple, and very restful - so restful that we both struggled to stay awake during the session. This temple has a lovely ordinance room where the line between men and women is just a different colored arm rest between seats, so we got to sit together, and not be separated by an aisle. This was very helpful today as we took turns jostling each other to stay awake. Beautiful, beautiful place though, and a nice chance to be alone together.
From here on out it was fly by the seat of our pants as we tried to figure out what to do. We ended up traveling downtown and eating lunch at the food court in the bottom of the Old Post Office, where I found a Greek food counter with an actual Greek person working there. So I got to chat a little with the owner, and she complemented me on how well I spoke, considering how long it has been since I lived there. I think she was just being nice.
We wandered down towards the Tidal Basin where many of the presidential and war memorials are located, but just ran out of steam before we got too far. We stopped at the White House visitor's center and found out all the places to stamp our National Parks passports. Josh was very happy about that.
We also stopped long enough at the Boy Scout memorial to take the photos of our two potential Boy Scouts, and then made it as far as the actual basin to find that the paddle boats (our REAL destination) closed up for the season on
Monday. Rats.
We could see the Jefferson Memorial off across the Tidal Basin, but couldn't drum up enough enthusiasm to walk to it, until I mentioned the possibility of finding an ice cream stand along the way, and then it was a trick to keep up with the boys. Jason especially was zombie-like, and I was starting to worry that he was getting sick until the mention of ice cream was like putting the Energizer bunny in his back pocket. At least I now know what motivates the boy!
It is always inspiring to read the words of the great men who shaped our nation, and Thomas Jefferson really did have a way with quill and ink. 
While we were there, three presidential helicopters flew by toward the White House, then two (decoys, we presume) flew off and one landed on the lawn. It was too far to see if the big man himself got off, but we assume it was the Prez being dropped off after a play date. I thought this would be a nice opportunity for a family photo, but Caleb and Jason were not quite in the right frame of mind, and Esther just spilled her Skittles on the step. Still looking for that perfect Christmas card setup.
We never did find ice cream on the way, but as 
we wearily trudged back to the metro stop, lo and behold a tent arose out of the middle of the National Mall and there it was, just like the promised land, a cooler with ice cream. It was like manna from heaven, and just the thing to get us back to the metro stop and plop exhausted into the seats.
we wearily trudged back to the metro stop, lo and behold a tent arose out of the middle of the National Mall and there it was, just like the promised land, a cooler with ice cream. It was like manna from heaven, and just the thing to get us back to the metro stop and plop exhausted into the seats. Except for Esther, who danced around a pole for most of the ride, tempting fate and the train driver, daring them to throw her off balance. This girl has style, I'll give her that. What she doesn't seem to have is an off switch!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Mount Vernon
Today we rented a mini van (for $45 bucks! Though we wasted about 2 hours to get it and an inexpensive booster seat for Esther) and drove out to Mount Vernon, George Washington's home in Virginia. I know it was a place that Mike's mom really wanted to go, but it didn't really sit at the top of my must-see list. I'm so glad we went! It really is a beautiful and peaceful place, and made me think lots about this great (though imperfect) man who lead our country through its early growing pains. What a contrast to today's leaders, sadly. Washington was a reluctant leader, and wanted most of all to be a gentleman farmer. The majority of today's politicians seem to want to run for office more for the great power it gives them, and less for the opportunity to serve the American people.
Esther ran right up to the statues of George and Martha and their grandchildren to hold hands with the cute little (bronze) boy.
The house was interesting, but I thought the ground
s were the best part. We walked down to the tomb that Washington, in his will, directed to be built. Leading up to it was a sign that requested respectful silence, and that just added to the austerity of the site.
s were the best part. We walked down to the tomb that Washington, in his will, directed to be built. Leading up to it was a sign that requested respectful silence, and that just added to the austerity of the site. Not far from the tomb was the monument to the slaves who lived and died on the farm and their supposed burial grounds, and I thought that was the most interesting place of all. The grave markers no longer exist, and it made me sad to think of the bodies of men and women buried there, with no real lasting record of their lives.
The last few photos are of the mansion at Mount Vernon. I thought it was funny to see the boys and Mike all taking a photo, but by the time I got the cameral out, they had moved on. Jason (who really enjoyed today) tells me that he got a picture of me taking pictures of them taking pictures of the mansion house. Esther is, of course, playing in the dirt.
Monday, October 13, 2008
A Day on the Mall
Today we had to change our plans – apparently federal workers get the day off on federal holidays (duh) and the Bureau of Printing and Engraving (where they print our increasingly weak dollar) was closed for Columbus Day. The Smithsonian museums were open though, and both boys were thrilled to visit the scene of “Night at the Museum.” We were all a little disappointed to realize that the movie must have been filmed in New York, because there was an elephant in the front lobby, not a giant T-Rex skeleton. No Atilla the Hun either. We did see some amazing exhibits though – the Smithsonian must have spent a small fortune on taxidermy – anyone know the going rate of stuffing a rhinocerous?
I think the highlight was meeting up with Josh’s birthmom, Colbie, and spending most of the day with her. She steered us to the coolest stuff, and reminded us that the National Archives displays the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The boys were less than excited until we reminded them that this was in the movie “National Treasure.” Yet another movie reference. Is this the only way to interest my kids in history? Jason, by the way, was rather unimpressed with the whole day and spent the better part of the Air and Space Museum and every metro ride snoozing. He claims he saw all this stuff at museums in Shanghai. Oh well, the rest of us found it all interesting. Caleb wanted to sit at the very front of the metro train and spent a good twenty minutes with his nose pressed up to the window so that he could see out the front. The kids were sure tuckered out after all this walking, and they actually went to sleep with out too much parental threatening (last night was awful. Nice mom goes to bed at 9pm and mean mom awakens with a vengeance – poor Caleb couldn’t quit giggling and I finally made him stand out in the hall, and Esther finally climbed up on our bed to fall asleep. Mike was asleep on the floor by Esther’s toddler bed, the first one to sleep, of course).
Tomorrow we plan to rent a car and drive out to Mont Vernon. Hopefully we will actually get photos with our family in them. The only good one today was when Esther and Josh were playing “Hug Monster.”
This poor little girl won’t know what to do if Heng Ai turns out to be a girly-girl. Tea parties just aren’t her thing!
Speaking of Heng Ai, we are still anxiously awaiting word of Pre Approval so that we can request updated photos and medical reports, and start sending her care packages. I especially want to send her pictures of us, and hopefully start getting her used to the idea of a new family. It has been fun to follow the blogs of those currently in China adopting older children, especially the little girl that touched my heart nearly a year ago, and opened the door to consider an older child. How very, very lucky I feel to be able to form my family this way! I know it wasn’t always that way – I’ve spent years feeling sorry for myself and how “hard” it has all been, but now I’m just so grateful for these experiences. At church yesterday we talked about overcoming trials, and I got to thinking that what used to be my greatest trial - infertility – has resulted in my greatest blessings – my adopted children. Of course I love Caleb, my bio boy, as much as Josh and Esther, and I am also grateful that I got to experience childbirth once, but it hasn’t felt like I’m giving up something. Adoption is a rich experience in its own way, and I’m so thankful for it.
I think the highlight was meeting up with Josh’s birthmom, Colbie, and spending most of the day with her. She steered us to the coolest stuff, and reminded us that the National Archives displays the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The boys were less than excited until we reminded them that this was in the movie “National Treasure.” Yet another movie reference. Is this the only way to interest my kids in history? Jason, by the way, was rather unimpressed with the whole day and spent the better part of the Air and Space Museum and every metro ride snoozing. He claims he saw all this stuff at museums in Shanghai. Oh well, the rest of us found it all interesting. Caleb wanted to sit at the very front of the metro train and spent a good twenty minutes with his nose pressed up to the window so that he could see out the front. The kids were sure tuckered out after all this walking, and they actually went to sleep with out too much parental threatening (last night was awful. Nice mom goes to bed at 9pm and mean mom awakens with a vengeance – poor Caleb couldn’t quit giggling and I finally made him stand out in the hall, and Esther finally climbed up on our bed to fall asleep. Mike was asleep on the floor by Esther’s toddler bed, the first one to sleep, of course).
Tomorrow we plan to rent a car and drive out to Mont Vernon. Hopefully we will actually get photos with our family in them. The only good one today was when Esther and Josh were playing “Hug Monster.”
This poor little girl won’t know what to do if Heng Ai turns out to be a girly-girl. Tea parties just aren’t her thing!
Speaking of Heng Ai, we are still anxiously awaiting word of Pre Approval so that we can request updated photos and medical reports, and start sending her care packages. I especially want to send her pictures of us, and hopefully start getting her used to the idea of a new family. It has been fun to follow the blogs of those currently in China adopting older children, especially the little girl that touched my heart nearly a year ago, and opened the door to consider an older child. How very, very lucky I feel to be able to form my family this way! I know it wasn’t always that way – I’ve spent years feeling sorry for myself and how “hard” it has all been, but now I’m just so grateful for these experiences. At church yesterday we talked about overcoming trials, and I got to thinking that what used to be my greatest trial - infertility – has resulted in my greatest blessings – my adopted children. Of course I love Caleb, my bio boy, as much as Josh and Esther, and I am also grateful that I got to experience childbirth once, but it hasn’t felt like I’m giving up something. Adoption is a rich experience in its own way, and I’m so thankful for it.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Beginning of DC adventure
I was too tired last night to chronicle our travel day, so I'll review the big points. We actually made it to the airport with time to spare, which is so not how Mike and I used to travel pre-children. We were pro's at cutting it close, running through airports to reach our gate, being the last passengers to board the plane, literally watching the door close right behind us. Having to haul children makes that kind of traveling a little impractical. We still managed to miss the family boarding call (Mike chose that moment to take a leisurely stroll to the restroom to wash his hands) so we had to sit at the very back of the plane. That made me a little nervous about making our connection in Denver, but Southwest pulled through and left on time. As we were pulling back from the gate, the flight attendant asked those in window seats to please press their faces up to the window so the other airlines could see that Southwest was flying with a plane full of passengers, neener, neener. I do like Southwest, and they did get us to both Denver and Baltimore on time or early, but I can't say I like how they seat their passengers first come, first served. It was tricky getting six seats together, and as I walked down the aisle, it was almost like a junior high lunch room - having to choose who to sit by. I swear there were people thinking, "I'm going to be the last one picked AGAIN."
Anyway, our flights were bumpy but not too bad, and the kids did really well. I took Esther into the bathroom to change her diaper and she insisted on having a try on the potty (don't want to discourage that, even if it is never sucessful) and after she hopped off and closed the lid, she stood up on the closed lid and flushed. It was REALLY loud, and she jumped about 3 feet into the air and into my arms. I thought I was going to wet my pants, I laughed so hard! She was pretty tired by the time we reached Denver, but changing planes (which was set up so nicely - we arrived at gate C39 and walked to C41 for our flight to Baltimore) just woke her up and she was silly, giddy, then ornery before she crashed about an hour from landing. We had to have a talk with the boys about not wandering around, then just about lost them in a metro station when they managed to get off, but the doors closed before Mike, Esther, Jason and I (and all our luggage) got off. I had a Momma Bear moment and without even thinking I just pounded the doors and they opened again. We all managed to get out and I thought I'd be sick right there. Just thinking about Josh and Caleb alone at an inner city metro station makes me feel a little ill right now! Awful mental picture!
We finally made it to the apartment where we are staying (in the same complex as Mike's parents) and even though it only has one room, it is still better than a hotel (we have a kitchen with a fridge/microwave/stove). And waaaaaay cheaper. We had a lazy day today and didn't have to go to church until 2:30. Mike's parents' ward is all senior missionary couples who work in the Washington DC temple, so the pressure was on in Sacrament meeting to keep the kids quiet! It was a spry ol' group and we enjoyed church today. I thought it was interesting that the closing song was As Zion's Youth in Latter Days. No moss on these folks!
Tomorrow we are planning to head to the Tidal Basin area of DC. Photos, I promise!
Anyway, our flights were bumpy but not too bad, and the kids did really well. I took Esther into the bathroom to change her diaper and she insisted on having a try on the potty (don't want to discourage that, even if it is never sucessful) and after she hopped off and closed the lid, she stood up on the closed lid and flushed. It was REALLY loud, and she jumped about 3 feet into the air and into my arms. I thought I was going to wet my pants, I laughed so hard! She was pretty tired by the time we reached Denver, but changing planes (which was set up so nicely - we arrived at gate C39 and walked to C41 for our flight to Baltimore) just woke her up and she was silly, giddy, then ornery before she crashed about an hour from landing. We had to have a talk with the boys about not wandering around, then just about lost them in a metro station when they managed to get off, but the doors closed before Mike, Esther, Jason and I (and all our luggage) got off. I had a Momma Bear moment and without even thinking I just pounded the doors and they opened again. We all managed to get out and I thought I'd be sick right there. Just thinking about Josh and Caleb alone at an inner city metro station makes me feel a little ill right now! Awful mental picture!
We finally made it to the apartment where we are staying (in the same complex as Mike's parents) and even though it only has one room, it is still better than a hotel (we have a kitchen with a fridge/microwave/stove). And waaaaaay cheaper. We had a lazy day today and didn't have to go to church until 2:30. Mike's parents' ward is all senior missionary couples who work in the Washington DC temple, so the pressure was on in Sacrament meeting to keep the kids quiet! It was a spry ol' group and we enjoyed church today. I thought it was interesting that the closing song was As Zion's Youth in Latter Days. No moss on these folks!
Tomorrow we are planning to head to the Tidal Basin area of DC. Photos, I promise!
Friday, October 10, 2008
This marathon I DID run
I was a part of history. Apparently, it has rained twice during St. George Marathon's 32-year run, and it was bucket loads last Saturday. Not just a misty drizzle, or even the occasional cloud burst. No. It rained the WHOLE time. I was hoping it would be overcast, maybe even sprinkle a little, and I guess all 5,030 runners prayed for the same thing. Is it possible to over-pray? Audrey (my sister) and I tried to keep as dry as possible during the hour wait for the race to start by huddling under our clothing drop bags, and we managed to scrounge up a few garbage sacks just before the race began. I will never scoff at garbage bag wearers again! Note to the uninitiated: people take a garbage bag, punch holes for arms and head, and wear it while waiting and during the first few cold miles, then toss it at an aid station. It is not very attractive, and we've always kind of mocked the swish-swishers, but no more! I proudly wore my Hefty bag for 6 miles! Audrey and I decided by mile 3 that today was not the day to run a Boston qualifying race, and decided just to finish with smiles on (although I was secretly hoping to finish under 4 hours). Well, we ran a steady race, and despite the discouraging conditions (there was a soul sucking headwind too, did I mention that?) we survived and smiled at the finish. I got a Personal Record too by finishing at 3:54:34. It was very satisfying to conquer the weather, my mental and physical fatigue, the annoyance of squishing shoes and oddly placed blisters and a very long and not-as-downhill-as-they-claim race course. Would I do it again, knowing the misery in store? Absolutely - as long as Audrey ran with me. I'd run in a lot worse to be able to run with my sister!
It was so great to see Mike and the kids at mile 24 - just when I needed to see some loving faces. I must have looked so stunning that Mike forgot to take a picture (ha) but I think I can post a link to Marathonfoto. There were so many photographers along the race course that Audrey and I ran out of clever things to do after the, well, first one. Try this: http://www.marathonfoto.com/index.cfm?RaceOID=13112008M1&LastName=HOUSLEY&BibNumber=4762&Mailing=17678
It was so great to see Mike and the kids at mile 24 - just when I needed to see some loving faces. I must have looked so stunning that Mike forgot to take a picture (ha) but I think I can post a link to Marathonfoto. There were so many photographers along the race course that Audrey and I ran out of clever things to do after the, well, first one. Try this: http://www.marathonfoto.com/index.cfm?RaceOID=13112008M1&LastName=HOUSLEY&BibNumber=4762&Mailing=17678
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