ThewonderfulworldofROZ

A daddy-ism

2012-01-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

We had a fantastic weekend! Pictures and a good story in the next few days....

We can see it. Can you?

2012-01-28T06:45:00.000-08:00

"Mommy, come look. I wrote Rozzie on the I-pad. R. O. Z. Roz!"

"Rozzie and Ella's Zeum"

2012-01-26T12:33:00.000-08:00

We had a fantastic day at the Art Museum making dragons, painting, playing and most importantly for the mamas - eating the delicious lunch in the cafe.

More of the Dragon.

2012-01-24T12:17:00.000-08:00

Year of the Dragon

2012-01-23T04:13:00.000-08:00

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

We were lucky enough to spend time with many wonderful friends yesterday kicking off the Chinese New Year celebrations (a day early)! As soon as I get a few pictures, I will post them.

Fashions by Roz

2012-01-22T12:00:00.000-08:00

Pre-New Year @ The Pond

2012-01-21T06:15:00.000-08:00

a favorite place...

2012-01-18T07:47:00.000-08:00

Our shower should be one of the cleanest places in the house, state, country.... Roz gets in there and talks and cleans and talks and cleans.....

Since Last Tuesday....

2012-01-15T18:01:00.000-08:00

When ROZ wants, she is a really big help and quite impressive with her laundry skills. I was actually really surprised how well she does with folding, stacking and putting things away.

I repeat - When ROZ wants.

Sweet Jack had to have surgery again on his leg. He is doing alright but is sore. Roz has been very concerned, but will not look at him. She squeezes her eyes shut and says "I afraid". Tonight she told me that "Jack hurts and it makes her cry".

Because of Jack's surgery, I sent daddy and Roz on to a very special birthday party last night without me. They had an awesome time. Roz was especially excited about the pizza and the cake (eating again in bed when she got home). She talked to herself all day - "It is not Rozzie's birthday anymore. It is over. It is Drins. We had cake here at Rozzie's house. I blew out the candles and the balloons were right here. My birthday is over. We will sing to Drin. She will blow out her candles."

We have also seen Ella, gone to the mall, watched Up several times (Roz loves the "peacot" -peacock, although we aren't sure she is a peacock), had some snow, made it through the 3 year old classroom again without incident, celebrated Aunt Sheri & Kevin's Anniversary, refused to go to the bathroom in the potty, painted nails, and a hundred other things......

"Krama" & Crackers

2012-01-10T16:44:00.000-08:00

(socks AND tights)

Well, we haven't lost all of the "Rozisms". We gained a new one this week - "krama". (camera)

"Say Cheeeese Mom!"

Ella's mama is on the mend so we were allowed to go over and play today. Roz was super excited to go to "Ella Bellas" this morning. Although, by the way they acted the first hour towards each other - you never would have guessed it! But
after a little food, a couple of time outs and some regrouping, things got a whole lot better.

"I like these crackers!"

Movin Up!

2012-01-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

To the 3 year old class room!

Which is a pretty big deal for some obvious reasons and some not so obvious ones, too. The latter being- Roz and Ella are no longer in the same class room. I'm not sure that either mama gave the girls enough credit this morning. There was concern and worry of how they were going to do. We did hear there was some questioning about where the other was and what each were doing but they did really really well! And at the end of the day when I put them in the car, it was as if nothing had even changed!

Roz -"Mommy, Heather not feel good?"
Ella - "My mommy is sick."
Roz - "Heathers sick. She not feel good."

I heard this a lot all day yesterday.
But because Heather was sick, I also heard a lot of laughter and talking, a little screaming and fighting and even a bit of crying!

It was a good day! With some VERY tired girls! (Mamas included!)

Identified and Corrected

2012-01-04T18:04:00.000-08:00

It was Aunt Stephanie that brought Brutus into Roz's life. And it wasn't as long ago as I thought. Can't wait to tell Roz in the morning! Thanks Aunt Stephanie! Sorry about NYE. We love you!

"Brutus" & The Ipad

2012-01-04T13:20:00.000-08:00

Roz's closet door has a pocket hanger for all of her stuffed animals. (And there are a lot of them!) She noticed "Brutus" this weekend and he hasn't left her side since. She's asked several times "Who gave me this?". Sorry to say, I don't remember. He has been around since "the waiting". Please let us know if it was you- it would mean a lot to Roz (& me).

And her new obsession "The Ipad". She says it is hers. The way she has figured out the games, the pictures, etc. - it might as well be.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T06:35:00.000-08:00

(a day late)

I have a lot reasons/excuses on why there haven't been many posts since last year. Most are pretty insignificant, but one that is very important and worth mentioning

- Roz "needed" to see her friend that she missed!

And when we went over to play, we got another reason! "Eba"! (Now correctly called Ava.)

Besides Ava now being said the right way, there are a lot of words that have lost their Rozism. We are happy that her words are definitely more clear and correct, but sometimes it's a little sad not hear "Eba", "tank um", "Ewwa", etc. However, there is still one that we hear quite a bit. The "chicken" is where we drink our coffee, eat food and look out the window. She even told Mimi & "Kirby" that "I blew my nose in the chicken!" That's a meal I wouldn't recommend.

More from Florida

2011-12-30T15:40:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T13:53:00.000-08:00

"Kinda" Like The Griswolds....

2011-12-22T14:18:00.000-08:00

..But soooo Much Better!! We LOVE our neighborhood family!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

At Home Today.

2011-12-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

a father's love....

2011-12-20T17:34:00.000-08:00

Thanks Aunt Joan & Uncle T for the great "hairbows"!!!

Still can't believe that Christmas is less than a week away. Everything Dorothy is about gone from the house and now we are gearing up for "HoHo". Although excited, Roz still has no interest in going to see him. But today, Santa came to see her (in the Sam's parking lot). She was in awe. I don't think she could believe her luck. She was actually very sweet and told him she had been good all year. When he asked her what kind of doll she wanted, Roz told him she wanted another cat.

A Dorothy Party!!

2011-12-18T11:34:00.000-08:00

We think Roz had a really good day! She smiled and laughed and talked about everything all day yesterday and today. The one and only concerned she had was "Why they doing that mom?" when people would call and sing Happy Birthday to her. Thanks to everyone - near and far - who shared her day, even if by phone or mail. We are more than blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives!

Tomorrow...

2011-12-16T16:11:00.000-08:00

"I be 3!"

Roz was very excited about having a party at "Ella's school" today. I think she had a really good day.... and tonight, she wore her VERY SPECIAL "Wizard of Oz hairbows"!!! Who knew they even made them?!!?? Some very special people!! xoxo

3 year check-up

2011-12-15T11:25:00.000-08:00

Roz's First (fake) pair of Earrings.

Tuesday was our doctor's appointment for Roz's 3 year old check up. She did really well. Not one melt down, even with blood being drawn. She answered all of their questions and then added "are we done yet? can we go yet mom?". I would say that although she likes to talk about "Doctor Tony", it is not her favorite place to be. No surprises during our visit. Roz is in the 75% for weight and 30% for height.

Thanks to everyone for Roz's sweet birthday wishes. She has been loving "the mail!"

"Kinda"

2011-12-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

"Kinda weird" is what we hear a lot. "Dad, this taste kinda weird. Mom, this feels kinda weird." You get the idea. We weren't really sure she got the true meaning of "kinda" or if she knew when to use "kinda" - until this morning.

"Dad, red panda is kinda yours. You brought it home in the yellow bag and Rozzie took out."

She gets it.

Miss you Mt K more than ever!

Going somewhere?

2011-12-10T05:25:00.000-08:00

Waiting for snow.

This picture just makes me smile... I think it is so funny!

Have a great weekend!!

A conversation from the backseat.

2011-12-05T12:39:00.000-08:00

We were lucky enough to be asked if we would keep Ella yesterday afternoon. After getting her in the car and the screams of 2 excited little girls calmed down, this is what was heard in the front.

Roz asked Ella -

"Where's your mommy?"

Ella - "My mommy's at the party."

Roz - "My mommy at the party not. I have a party soon for my birthday. Whens your birthday?"

Ella - "I don't know. Whens your birthday?"

Roz - "My birthday is December 17th!"

Ella then went into something about someones birthday being on Tuesday. Roz added that her daddy's birthday was in August and wanted to know when Ella's daddy's birthday was. There was some excitement because his birthday is in December also. (At this point, we were smiling and paying so much attention to what they were saying, I couldn't keep track of all the exact words).

Like Patrick said, these girls have been having conversations for over 2 years now. We just didn't know exactly what they were saying until recently...

...but they did.

Tis the Season

2011-12-03T09:49:00.000-08:00

Immediately after the turkey on Thanksgiving, Roz reminded us that we said we would put up the Christmas tree. She says the order - "Halloween time, Tanksagiving, Rozzie's Birthday and HoHo!" Of course, we obliged and the house is fully decked out!

Yesterday was a very special day for 2 of our favorite girls .....
Happy Birthday Sweet K in GA! and
Happy Referral Day Ella!!

We Love You!!!

Cupcakes & More

2011-11-29T17:15:00.000-08:00

And other stuff from today .....
http://ellaatlast.blogspot.com/

13 years.

2011-11-28T12:56:00.000-08:00

I was really glad she recognized us!

"Happy Annversree Daddy! And Mommy and Rozzie and Jack and Una! We are a family!"

"Where's all my special animals?"

2011-11-26T16:53:00.000-08:00

Roz is talking about black kitty, "foc" aka. fox, red panda (a new friend that daddy brought back from his recent work trip and hasn't been out of her site since he got home), Rudolph, "Claree", and "hoho".

Mimi and Dg tried to tell Roz that "red panda" was a raccoon. She was having no part of that and made sure that they saw the pictures of the real red pandas that we took while we were in China.

Speaking of Mimi and Dg, they made it home safely. Hurrying home before the big game tonight. Which we are also watching right now. And by we - I mean mommy, daddy & Roz.

"Go Noles! Go Team! Go Noles! The gators. Ooh - catch the ball!"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY "T"!!
WE LOVE YOU!!!

Thankful.

2011-11-24T10:37:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

"Yibaree Card!"

2011-11-17T12:36:00.000-08:00

Roz is officially the proud owner of her own library card. We've been to the library before but have never checked out a book. She didn't seem overly thrilled about the book or the card part until we were on the way home.

Maybe it was the company or the pumpkin pancakes (at the OPH) afterwards, that made her realize -we actually got to take the books from the library home.

just pictures ~

2011-11-16T17:06:00.000-08:00

PJ day at school...

2011-11-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

..............Roz style.

Add a skirt.

Reminders.

2011-11-11T11:47:00.000-08:00

There have been several (honestly- many) times this week when Ella's mama and I needed a reminder that our girls are kind, do really like people (including each other and their mamas), can laugh, share and be more than just (almost) 3!

We got a few.

ALL Day.

2011-11-09T11:40:00.000-08:00

This skirt was worn ALL day yesterday in one way or another. Roz thinks it is the most beautiful thing! (Well, besides the Dorothy dress). Here's what she had to say about it -

"Tank um Aunt Stef-uh-nee! I love my dress! I love her, too!"

You wouldn't have guessed this to be the case if you could have seen her look in regards to the skirt on Sunday when it was given to her. Typical Roz.

Made you smile.

2011-11-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

Too cold to be naked.

2011-11-06T18:03:00.000-08:00

Not sure why, we are positive there are many reasons....but lately Roz has decided she would like to be without clothes on. This weekend was one of those times. We told her we didn't care what she wore, she just had to wear something.

An apron.

Only a shirt.

And the good old Dorothy dress.

For those who are wondering, Roz had a great day at school on Friday. Before we left, she told me "I cry at school today not." Once there, she was trying really hard. But when we walked in - it surprised Ella and she started sobbing. That was all it took. When it was time to leave - Ella was fine, Roz was in Mrs. S's arms and I was a mess. I understand that it only took her a couple of minutes to regroup. Don't ask how long it took for Roz's mama to.

The rest of the weekend was nice. We did a lot cleaning, a little shopping and had a nice visit with some very good friends!

The Dentist on Tuesday? The Zoo on Wednesday??

2011-11-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Taken by the "dentist lady".

Yesterday, Roz and I were back up for Ella and her mama at the dentist. A couple of months ago, Roz had her first "appointment" and Tuesday was Ella's turn. Well, we were somewhat needed - not because Ella wasn't ready for it, I'm not sure the hygienist was.

This week was all turned around in Ella-Land. (They even had me thinking it was Thursday!) But, it doesn't matter what day it is, we still enjoyed the zoo! (And it's always great to see Uncle Kevin!)

"Theres a man mommy - cutting the bush."

2011-11-01T06:49:00.000-07:00

Roz chose "the witch!".

After a long walk through several neighborhoods with all the daddies- this is what Roz had to share with me. She didn't talk about actually knocking on doors and saying trick-or-treat and then "tank um". But about the man with the knife.

Daddy reported that there were several "I scared" houses, one in particular that had a masked man with a machete pretending to be coming after people. Not sure if it worked or not, but he tried to tell Roz that the man was just doing yard work.

We had a fun night with all the CB's and their families (along with a dinosaur and a lion). 5 years has brought a lot of changes but hasn't taken away the friendships and good times!

Still not sure...

2011-10-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

..what Roz is going to dress up as for "Halloween night". She hasn't mentioned Dorothy in the last 2 weeks. Thomas the Train and Hello Kitty have not been talked about since September. Toto, a cat, and a "big cat" have been forgotten. She wanted to be a ghost last week since Skyping with friends but didn't say a word about it this weekend after we tried on a hand me down witch's dress. Will let you know tomorrow....

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!!!!!

"Do THEY talk?"

2011-10-29T11:21:00.000-07:00

The "THEY" Roz was referring to, were all of the apple trees in the orchard we visited with Ella 2 weeks go. We weren't sure if this visit to pick apples was going to be a good thing or not. It turned out to not only be a whole lot apple picking & eating fun ~ but a positive experience in which Roz learned that trees don't talk! (At least not out loud anyway).

A Harmonica Recital & A Surprise Clown

2011-10-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday afternoon, Ella came over for what turned out to be band practice. The girls had a great time playing, snacking, coloring & getting into everything.

And tonight - Roz's sweet Aunt SSprincess came over with a bag of goodies for her girl. We weren't sure how Roz was going to react to the clown costume. We could tell she was wondering what?!?!, who?!?!?, where?!?!!!! But after some time and a little candy, Roz noticed that S had on a lot of "lip lip". Thanks for the fun surprise!!

Fri, Sat, Sun & Mon

2011-10-25T17:26:00.000-07:00

It was a really fun and busy weekend that went by way too fast. Along with the "normal" Roz stuff...We also visited friends from CA, wore a new hat, painted, picked out a new pumpkin, rode a pony named Velvet, ate apple fritters, sat in a firetruck, played with a blue hippo at the carpet store, talked to some new cats, dogs & birds, went to the park, rode a train and fed some fish.

Happy Day to Eba and her family!

Dress Up II.

2011-10-21T15:06:00.000-07:00

Because Roz went in the potty 5 times on Thursday, Aunt Anne said she would buy her a present. (I suggested she wait and bribe Roz with this surprise for bigger things, but my suggestion fell on deaf ears). She, the girls and Nana Sheila brought over a pretty bright pink box with dress up clothes inside. And even though she hasn't gone in the "big girls potty" since then, I'm sure Anne will not take back the gift! That's probably a good thing, because Roz loves it!! She had on the matching gloves to this outfit this morning before school.

Speaking of school, Roz had a really good day! There were tears and "I'm gonna cry" before we even got out of the car but once inside, after finding Ella - she was fine. I did inquire about the girls and how they were with each other during the day (Ella's mama and I always try to find out the scoop from the girls, and they give up nothing!). Are they nice to each other? Do they play? You never know with those two how they are going to be. They are so much like siblings - that they push/shove/express themselves as much as they love each other. Mrs. L shared several things but the sweetest was - she told me that every Friday they lay next to each other at nap time and they talk and talk and talk. Then one will fall asleep and in turn, the other. Once awake, they start talking again. AWWW! Wish Ella's mama and I got to see some of that!!

Have a great weekend!!

Dress Up.

2011-10-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

Last week, Ella joined in on one of Roz's favorite activities.

There was a lot of "the fun", many smiles, several laughs, a few hats, some bubbles, a couple pairs of shoes and a little pushing!

"I get you my pretty.....

2011-10-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

..and ooh yittle dog too. Whoooooohoooohooooo. Hahahahaha!"

Getting ready for Dumplings.

Checking out her new shirt in the oven reflection.

Roz was excited to receive a package in the mail this weekend from Mimi & Dg. There was a lot of goodies inside - but there was one VERY special shirt that was made by an extra nice person. Thanks M sooooo soooo much for making the day, week, year of a little girl who lives and breathes Dorothy!

Pete the Cat, Cornbread, Dinosaurs & ...

2011-10-15T18:15:00.000-07:00

Ella's friend from Kunming introduced Ella and her family to this quirky, yet wonderful cat named Pete. I haven't met anyone that doesn't like him. Especially, when he sings Wheels on the Bus.

Rozzie preparing..and enjoying.....part of her meal.

"Mama, it's a dinosaur!"

Chopsticks!!!

"tutu me ta ta ta"

2011-10-14T17:35:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, you know this song....

Hakuhna Matada from the Lion King.
Roz just loves Simba, Nala and all the singing. She isn't too sure about Scar and we can tell when he makes an appearance because we hear "mama, come sit with me!".

Drop off at school was pretty bad this morning (even had to have a much needed pep talk from Ella's mama). Before we even got there, she was saying "I gonna cry". (Which I guess was better than last week when she ran through the whole lot of - "I no like Mrs. Lisa. I no like Mrs. Sherry. I no like Mrs. Rachel. I no like snack. I no like to play outside. I no like lunch." - you get the idea). But evidently after I was gone for a bit, Roz came alive and had a great day!

"I do it myself!"

2011-10-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

Roz finally put the thought with the motion on Sunday, and she was thrilled! Because it is "Duhnel's bike" (and Elmo has the same one - when she liked Elmo), Roz has been interested in riding but it wasn't clicking until now!

Watching her - all we kept saying was.... she's just not a baby anymore.

Catching up.

2011-10-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

Since last post, we've done the usual things- "Music cool", " "Rozzie's school", Ella's school" (which has had its ups and downs), playing, shopping, and eating.. but we have also gone to the park with Ella & her neighborhood friends, experienced a little fall, and have been to 2 of Tyer's football games!!

We have also had a lot of ----
"I can't walk!", "I can't move!", "My legs!", "Cant move my legs!".

Did I mention that she is almost 3?

Refusing to smile.

Ella's first time on the big swing!!

Pumpkins!

Roz with Aunt Sheri at the football game.

This week Roz has busted out with a lot of information that evidently she has been listening to, taken in, processed and has now decided to share..... she knows her full name and has realized that her and Ella have a somewhat common bond within their middle names, although she doesn't always get the correct date of her birthday (she likes to say 49) - she knows what month hers, mine and her daddy's bdays fall in, she has realized that mommy, daddy, Mimi, and Dg have real names and she knows them - sometimes even calling me "Mommy Katie". Her imagination is quite vivid, so much so that we had to buy light blocking curtains to go over her shades because the trees outside of her window "talk and are going to jump into her room!"

Potty training is just not an interest in the least bit. Her teacher asked her if she wanted to try to go on the big potty and she told her "No, I pee pee in my diaper." We figure when she is ready, she will let us know.

She's been known to...

2011-10-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

...but only to those she really loves A LOT!!!

(mommy, Aunt Anne, daddy & Ella)

He has to do everything!

2011-10-02T17:15:00.000-07:00

(Daddy chose the title for this Blog.)

"The Gum"

2011-09-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

Before today, Roz had tried gum once that I can remember and/or know about. It was a smidgen, she chewed on it awhile and then swallowed it. On occasion she has asked for more, but I have always told her not until she would chew it only. On Wednesday, we ran into a neighborhood friend who was allowing her 3 year old to have "the gum" and as you can guess, Roz talked about "Caryeen" and her gum for the next 2 days.

In comes good old Aunt Anne........ she knew her girl had been asking about "the gum" and of course, Roz gets what Roz wants when Aunt Anne is involved! Roz had "the gum" today with the promise that she wouldn't get Aunt Anne in trouble by swallowing it. Roz chewed her first piece of gum for almost 3 hours!!!! Only giving it up because it was time for dinner and I told her she could have another piece after she ate. The second piece only lasted 30 minutes but it also ended up in the garbage can.

It was a good day for Roz and not just because of "the gum". What started off as a little rough on the way to school, ended up being a fun day filled with Ella who "coughed in bed", pretzels, a well eaten lunch with "no peas", playing, and a star sticker!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!

My dear friend Joaners - We all love you very much.

Cell Phone Snapshots from the Weekend

2011-09-28T17:44:00.000-07:00

We've been trying to get back in the routine since Mimi & Dg left us. Yesterday, I had a "papontment" so Aunt Anne took Roz for her first "twampotween" experience (which she loved). Because of that, we didn't get our daily Tuesday Ella fix but we were lucky enough to have Roz's BFF come over for dinner and "play" last night.

At our favorite ice cream place.

Same pony as last year - Black Beauty.

Never easy...

2011-09-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

....to say goodbye. We miss you Dg & Mimi already. xo

A Good Week....

2011-09-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

a great week..!!!!!

...and CONGRATULATIONS to Triple Blessings! We are so excited and can't wait for you to bring that sweet girl home!!

Oz Fest 2011

2011-09-20T17:35:00.000-07:00

Who knew?

30 years of Oz in a small mid-west town could bring so much happiness to 1 funny girl and her 2 nutty parents...

All Smiles

2011-09-16T11:06:00.000-07:00

...with her doll Lynda.

...jumping for/with Jack.

...just because.

...she likes her blue "flops".

...she's Roz.

Best Friends

2011-09-12T18:54:00.000-07:00

A day filled with cards, donuts, margaritas, flowers, gifts, friendship and love!! Thanks to all of our best friends for making mama's birthday perfect!

Where were you?

2011-09-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

10 years ago. Can you believe it ?

So much has changed.

"I'm going to work."

2011-09-09T04:09:00.000-07:00

I guess this is what Roz thinks someone might wear to work. Goggles, grocery cart, shoes too big.

Never a dull moment.

Daddy met us for lunch.

On the 7th, we sang "Happy Family Day" many times (continuing with Roz in her crib that night) and had a few sweets with 2 candles. (Being that she already talks about her "Hello Kitty Birthday in Cember") She loved it! Thanks to all who made the day even more special!

2 years later.

2011-09-07T05:03:00.000-07:00

Now.

And Then.

Happy Family Day to us!

9.07.11

(Happy Bday Aunt Susan & Aunt Joan!! xoxoxo)

Roz & Ella's Excellent Adventure (from 8/25)

2011-09-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

This pretty much tells you how the Safari ride went.

The mamas thought that taking the girls on a 2 day- over night - adventure might be fun for all! And let me tell you, it was! There were some surprises (Roz being petrified of the animals and Ella loving them), a little water (mostly the bath tub and not the water park) and A LOT of laughs!!

Towards mid-trip, we agreed that we could have taken the 2, three miles down the road to the nearest Cracker Barrel and let them play on the rocking chairs for an hour and gone home. But if we had done that, we wouldn't have any of the incredible memories for them or us to share!

Breakfast in Bed

In the play room.

Actually enjoying the water park.

Besides bath time, this was the girls favorite.

They must have had a good time!!

For another glimpse into the trip and a GREAT video:

http://ellaatlast.blogspot.com/

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-05T15:20:00.000-07:00

Anytime, we get an extra day with daddy - it is extra special! Roz did a lot of hanging out with "my daddy" this weekend and she was a big helper!(?) We had a nice, relaxing, low key, three day weekend filled with family, friends and fun (with a few cupcakes, margaritas, & french fries)!

It is really hard to believe that two years ago - at this very moment, we were boarding a plane in China to fly to Chongqing where we would meet our daughter.... and although, I wouldn't trade that time for anything....

this weekend was a bit less stressful!

Go Noles! Go Knights! Go Gators!!

2011-09-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

All in one day!!

Hope everyone is having a great Labor Day weekend!!!

"Eba" & Ella's School

2011-09-02T16:31:00.000-07:00

For a few weeks now, Roz has been telling people that she is going to Ella's school soon. It can be a random conversation or if she sees a school bus or she asks where someone (Kenzi, Nikkicole, Ella, Eba, Tessa, Kaka) is during the day.

Maybe she knew her day was really coming.

I could have never prepared myself for her reaction based on Roz's history of school.

NOT one tear. NOT one tear ALL day.

We were blown away - still are. We are all so proud. We are all so happy for her! She had a blast!! Her favorites were playing with Ella, doing "the art", the playground, the nap...

"I go back next Friday."

Head to Toe

2011-09-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

...including the hair.

At least she hasn't discovered a purple dinosaur or a wiggle.

"black puppy"

2011-08-29T17:07:00.000-07:00

Could there be any other name?

Brushing teeth...

2011-08-27T17:06:00.000-07:00

...has always been an exciting thing to do at our house for Roz. Especially now that she puts the toothpaste on our brushes for us - without asking by either party. She knows who has what color and what paste goes on which. Roz finds this to be a very important job, one that she takes very seriously.

We have been very busy the last couple of days. Hoping the next Blog will be full of pictures from our adventures!!

Top 2 for today.

2011-08-24T17:57:00.000-07:00

1. "Duhnel's dress.
2. Thomas the Train.

Weekend Review.

2011-08-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

Daddy, Daddy, Daddy!,

Airplane, Aristocats & Jack.

2 special b-days!!

2011-08-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

Thanks Aunt Anne for my new dress!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NIKKICOLE!!
WE LOVE YOU!!!!!!

.......and Happy 1st Birthday T!!!! Glad you are home!!!

"Phunny!" girl

2011-08-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Bday Mt. K.

We miss you.

Hot Mess (x 2)

2011-08-16T14:38:00.000-07:00

If you are wondering just who might have dressed the girls "matching like Ella's shirt". That would be Hot Mess #1 aka "Ra".

Another year older...

2011-08-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Daddy! We love you!!!!

Tuesday with "Mamma H"

2011-08-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, daddy & I had an appointment that couldn't be missed so Ella's mama was kind enough to watch our girl. We knew it was going to be okay because when we walked out the door Roz didn't shed a tear.

She may not have cried, but I have a feeling there was a lot of want/need for attention and reassurance. Roz and Ella knew that Roz's mama wasn't there BUT there was a mama that was!! Between the 2 of them and not sure which girl came up with it.. but there now is a "mama H"!!!

It turned out to be a longer day than expected - but from what I have been told.... all went well. (Many Thanks!!) It couldn't have been too bad ...Roz was still happy to see both of them for pool time on Thursday!

Our New Table

2011-08-10T07:18:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Roz decided it was time to give up the high chair for the "booster seat" or "sit on knee". (Some days are better than others and the high chair is still a threat in the corner of the kitchen). So, we knew that eventually we would have to give up our older bar table once this happened and well, it happened. Thanks to IKEA, we are all happy with our new piece of furniture!!

From yesterday...

2011-08-08T17:26:00.000-07:00

..after the squealing, screaming, hugging, laughing, running and dancing..... relaxing with a good book.

"Ra" is back!!!

2011-08-07T11:58:00.000-07:00

"Ra" or "Rah-z" is what Roz calls herself.

We got back into town on Friday and although, we miss our family and friends.. it is really great to be home!! (Thanks Duhnel for card!)

Roz was so excited to see her toys, her daddy, her aunts, nikki & nikkicole but her favorite was seeing Ella today! They hugged, ran and screamed like they hadn't seen each other in years! It was really pretty sweet!

Here are some pics from last week.....

"Aunt Wee" and "Ra" putting on makeup.

Skyping with daddy.

Ice cream with Dg.

Snack with K.

"Mimi's coppee".

You know who you are!!

2011-08-03T18:28:00.000-07:00

We Miss You!!!

"Maw-ree"

2011-07-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

Marie from Aristocats

She hasn't seen the movie but it doesn't matter..it's a cat!

Everything OZ!

2011-07-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple of days, several really special people have given Roz some Wizard of Oz things that she not only plays with but takes to night night, loves on and talks to (or one could say - bosses)!! THANK YOU!!!!!

Happy Birthday Uncle Joe!! We love you!!!

This shirt.

2011-07-22T06:34:00.000-07:00

This shirt was bought 2 years ago by a couple who had waited a long time to bring their child home. A child that was longed for and loved - way before she was even born. It was purchased 2 days before they got to see their child's beautiful face for the first time. This shirt is not just a souvenir from a tourist trap in a big city. It was a purchase full of wanting, waiting, longing and love.

2 years ago, I don't think there is anything - that could of prepared us (that couple) - for what would fill this shirt and just HOW much we would love her.

Decided she liked it!!

2011-07-21T12:12:00.000-07:00

I was trying to figure out a way to get Roz to change her mind about wearing the "cELLA" dress out last night. We were going to meet a fun group whom we care a lot about so it wasn't that they would mind....but the dress is old, ripped, has stains and let's face it - it's just ugly! I let her pick out whatever she wanted from the closet and "green like the witch" was chosen!! I'm sure because of the color and it has a matching cat purse. Roz was not going to even try the bandanna on her head..... but once she did, she loved it!! She wore it all night while eating chips & salsa, dancing, throwing things, running around with Ella, coloring and even through a melt down from sleep deprivation!!

Happy Birthday "EBA"!!!! & L!!

"cELLA"

2011-07-18T11:13:00.000-07:00

Before her feet hit the floor this morning, Roz was looking for her purple plastic shoes. "Where'd they go, mama? Where'd the purple shoes go?" I didn't have the heart to tell her that daddy threw them away last night because the heels were cracking/falling off. I thought there had to be another color shoe in that dress up box that would do just fine. Blue was my first pick. I could tell Roz knew they went with the blue satin skirt she has been wearing frequently, but I think the "lady" on the shoes and shirt had been preventing her from trying them on though. "Who dat lady mommy?"

That 1 word answer was all it took. I should have know. It has Ella in it. Cinderella.

aka. Cinderella

We'll see how long this outfit lasts. You never know around here. I'm sure it will look fine with red shoes....

Wanted to share pics from the zoo last weekend. We went to see the new baby elephant (& Aunt Kevin).

"riding the alley, alley, o"

Roz didn't want to pick an animal so they sat.

Aunt Kevin

On the big swing & other things this week....

2011-07-17T17:50:00.000-07:00

mismatched shoes-one on the wrong foot...

playing in the sprinklers...

a new tiara ("green like the witch")...

all by herself......

...as well as a few birthdays..... Tyer, Betty, David (whom we miss dearly) & Aunt Steph!!!

Yesterday at "Eba's house"

2011-07-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

.....swimming, snacking, playing with new toys, meeting new friends, visiting with others we haven't seen since winter, enjoying the ones we see every week and just having A LOT of fun!!

Thanks Ava for having us over!!

He's HOME!!!

2011-07-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

Our friends who have been waiting - (for what seems like - FOREVER) to bring home their little boy .....land in the USA today!!
Congrats to MP, A & T!!!

Worry & Concern

2011-07-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

Have filled our house the last few days.

Roz has been talking about "Jackie Joe at the doctor", "Jack has a boo-boo", "his leg is hurt", "Jackie come home" Jack since nap time on Monday, when daddy dropped him off at the vet. We can tell that Jack's disappearance really bothered her.

Today is a better day for all.

Jack is doing OK considering that he had surgery for a torn ligament. We are just glad that he is home. His healing time will be a long process (about 4 months before he is back to "normal") but in the long run, it will be worth it because he will physically feel so much better!

And now that he is home - Roz already feels better and actually is taking a nap today!

New Red Shoes

2011-07-11T17:26:00.000-07:00

It was just a matter of time before she would need a new pair.......

When you wear the same pair of shoes almost everyday for HOW long?!?!?!?!

I didn't even see them shining in the shoe aisle at Target....but you know who did!! In Roz's defense, this is her first new pair that are her size. The old set were a hand me down that were 2 and 1/2 sizes too big. Needless to say, she LOVES them!!!

"CAGO!!"

2011-07-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

4th of July weekend in Chicago!!!

I wasn't sure this weekend was ever going to happen...but it did...and we had a GREAT time! When we traveled to China almost 2 years ago, one of the MANY conversations we had with the other families was about all of us staying in touch. We knew that was going to be a lot easier said than done with everyone living all over the US.

One of the moms told me that every year her family has a huge 4th of July celebration in Chicago and if they were able to go, they would let us know. Well, they decided that 2011 was the year to go and what started out as just 2 families meeting - turned into 3, 4 and 5! (4 of us have daughters from the same SWI.)

The 4 Fus & 1 Honorary Fu

Roz & kitty checking out their cool shades.

That invisible red thread works in some amazing ways. Not only did it connect us to Roz, to Ella & her family but to this group of wonderful and special friends that we may have never known! We had a lot of fun sharing memories and making more!!

Since December...

2011-07-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

...Roz has grown 2 inches and gained 2 pounds....

Today was our 2 and 1/2 year check-up. She did great (even with the shot and a little blood work) especially since she is beyond exhausted (we all are)!

We had a wonderful weekend in Chicago meeting some of our fellow China travelers. It was a very happy July 4th! I will post pictures soon!! Happy Hump Day!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2011-07-04T05:41:00.000-07:00

The MANY faces of Roz...

2011-07-01T11:29:00.000-07:00

Have a great weekend!!!

DELICIOUS

2011-06-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

Out of Town

2011-06-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

This weekend we headed North for a special friend's graduation party. No matter what time we left, it was going to interfere with Roz's nap - so we headed out early to stop by a few places we wanted to see and share with Roz. For lunch we went to the Rain Forest Cafe, where Roz hung on to her daddy for dear life. ("Monkeys are scary!") By the time we received the bill, she finally relaxed and enjoyed waving to the elephants, talking to the cheetah, and touching the rainbow. Afterwards, we spent some time walking (and shopping) around the mall and then we drove by our old neighborhood and first home. Our last stop was the party where we had a really nice time on a perfect day. It was wonderful to see our family friends and their beautiful daughters. When we first met them, W & N were not much older than Roz. Now W is going to be a junior and N is headed off to college!! We are so proud of all of them - mom and dad included!! Thanks for sharing your day with us!!

Too tired....

2011-06-26T18:00:00.001-07:00

So check this out.....

Link to Pics

more posing, corn & critters

2011-06-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

Some might think this is a shirt, but Roz wears it as a skirt.

Roz's favorite for the moment.

"Easter Bunny"

"Goat"

Visitors in the "Witch's House"

2011-06-22T12:02:00.000-07:00

and A LOT of posing.....

After Ella's 2 year check-up (and shot..ugh!) - (she'll be 2 in May..haha), we were lucky enough to have her & her mama come to our house for lunch. Thanks for a great afternoon!

"My favorite color is red."

2011-06-20T06:39:00.000-07:00

I wonder why?!?!

Aunt Sheri, Aunt Kevin, & Tyler visited Washington DC last week. While they were there, they toured the Smithsonian that has a pair of Dorothy's Original Red Shoes!! How sweet of them to take a picture, enlarge it and put them in a painted red frame. Needless to say, Roz is in LOVE!!! Thank you very much!

Yesterday was not only Dad's Day, it was Aunt Kathy's Birthday!! We didn't forget, we just wanted to put the news in a separate post so she would know JUST HOW MUCH WE LOVE HER!!! Hope your day turned out to be a good one!!! We miss you all!!