Pace Family

Our Family

2012-02-09T20:23:00.000-06:00

Becca drew this picture of her family for Catholic Schools Week. I LOVE it! She said they learned how to draw lips from an Arts Attack video. Victor and I have lips for people who are quiet, and her lips are drawn like they should be for people who talk.

Great Fun This Weekend!

2012-02-05T19:38:00.001-06:00

Make a digital slideshow

Somewhat Painful to Watch!

2012-02-01T12:36:00.001-06:00

First Ballet 1 Class

2012-02-01T12:05:00.002-06:00

Two Cuties

2012-02-01T11:36:00.002-06:00

Tooth #2 is Out!

2012-01-29T20:43:00.000-06:00

Look how teeny!

Too Cute!

2012-01-29T20:41:00.000-06:00

Becca made this at school on January 18. I love, love, love it!

Gotcha Day and Chinese New Year

2012-01-29T20:37:00.000-06:00

Personalize your own free photo slideshow

Meet Chip!

2012-01-29T20:16:00.000-06:00

Create a free slideshow

Okay, so why am I so far behind? After 2 weeks at work, I was ALMOST adjusted to getting up early, being gone all day, and having to do chores at night. ALMOST. Saturday the 14th, after Becca's first skating lesson, we were going to buy Becca some ice skates. The sporting goods store is right next to Petsmart. I'll admit it, I'm the one who said, "Let's go look at the dogs." Yep, I said it. But, I am NOT the one who picked up the dog first!

There was a litter of 9 week old Lab mix puppies, all black like Maggie except for one, who had a brindle face and legs. Victor picked him up and handed him to me, and that was it! I tried to resist, but he and Becca coerced me into it! And guess who is now spending her free time cleaning up pee and poop?

Becca wanted to name the puppy. I was a bit afraid, since her imaginary friends are Vave (pronounced Vavie) and Shashasky (have no idea how to spell that one!). She came up with Chocolate Chip, because of the brown in his face. So now we have Chip. (Later she told me she liked the name Black Citrus, but I told her it was too late to change!)

Becca is not as fond of the puppy as she first was. He still likes to bite, and his claws are quite sharp. She does enjoy running and squealing from him when they are outside. She likes to cuddle with him when he is nice and tired!

Maggie has had quite an adjustment. For 2 days, she rarely left our bedroom, and would not look at me when I called her! If Chip got anywhere near her, she would growl. It didn't faze Chip, though. When they finally got to go outside and play, they started to bond a bit. Maggie would still growl if he got too close to her, but he'd bark back. A few days ago, they were able to sit beside each other on the couch without Maggie getting down. Now, it's Maggie who bugs Chip when he is tired and tries to rest!

We keep him blocked off in the kitchen at night and when we are gone. Only problem is that he just learned to climb over the baby gate. We'll have to come up with a new plan tonight! Wish us luck!

Ballet 1 and Ice Skating

2012-01-29T19:25:00.000-06:00

Create your own free photo slideshow

I'm back! Things have been a bit hectic around here...more on that later. Earlier this month, Becca started her new ballet class. She is now in Ballet 1, and it is SO different from her earlier classes. It is VERY intense, and most of the directions and terms are in French. Becca was a bit intimidated at first, but she really seems to enjoy the class. She also started Ice Skating lessons on Saturdays. She really is having fun there, too. I went the first week just to watch her first lesson, but now Victor takes her each week. It gives them some time together, and me some time to myself.

Five Years Ago Today

2012-01-22T19:01:00.000-06:00

HAPPY GOTCHA DAY, BECCA! WE LOVE YOU!

And Now We're All Caught Up

2012-01-07T17:51:00.000-06:00

Here are photos from the rest of our weekend in St. Louis (see last post) and this past week. UP TO DATE! For now, at least!

This free picture slideshow generated with Smilebox

Happy 50th Anniversary!

2012-01-07T17:29:00.000-06:00

We went to St. Louis over New Year's weekend to celebrate Papa and Norna's 50th wedding anniversary. Uncle Vince and Aunt Tammy hosted a surprise party at their house on New Year's Eve. We told Papa and Norna that everyone was coming over to see Becca, and then surprised them when they got there. Val was a huge help in planning, shopping, and decorating! We had such a good time with our family and friends, and I think we really did surprise the anniversary couple!

This digital slideshow made with Smilebox

Still Here

2012-01-07T09:22:00.000-06:00

After 5 1/2 years at home, I returned to work full time this week. I am an aide in a first grade classroom at Becca's school. I have 28 kids that I work with, plus lots of clerical duties. The job is only for 4 months, as I am subbing for the aide who is student teaching. I am really loving it, but needless to say we are having to make some adjustments at home. I've managed to squeeze in washing clothes and grocery shopping, but blogging and scrapbooking are being pushed aside for a bit. Hopefully, I'll adjust and get caught up soon!

Christmas Morning

2011-12-27T16:02:00.000-06:00

Her Favorite Christmas Song (from Santa Paws)

2011-12-27T14:42:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-27T14:36:00.000-06:00

Create your own free digital slideshow

Kindergarten Party

2011-12-22T19:32:00.002-06:00

This picture slideshow made with Smilebox

Branson

2011-12-18T19:17:00.000-06:00

We stayed in Branson last night so that we could enjoy Silver Dollar City without having to worry about coming home late at night and fighting traffic. We enjoyed all of the lights and the Frosty show. This morning, Becca and I went for a swim in a supposedly heated, but very cold, indoor pool! After church, we went to Branson Landing, where we ran into Santa. I LOVE the series of photos with him!

A free slideshow by Smilebox

Private Concert

2011-12-16T18:02:00.000-06:00

Well, I figured out how to do video with my camera...don't use HD quality! Not ready for that, yet. So, to test, Becca gave a little concert of her own. Here are 3 songs from her music program. I've included the words to the last one, because it is not a familiar Christmas tune! The motions are just so cute!

The Hip Hop Groove
There's a turkey named "T", living on a farm.
He changed his name cause it used to be Tom.
He's got friends and they all like to move.
But their favorite move is the Hip Hop Groove.
They're more than feathers.
They're more than gobbles.
They're more than just some birds who have that funny wattle.
They move their beaks and tails.
They move their drumsticks.
These turkeys like it when they're moving to their own mix.

Do We Really Need More Cookies?

2011-12-16T17:32:00.000-06:00

What's Missing In These Pictures?

2011-12-15T20:31:00.000-06:00

Kindergarten Christmas Program

2011-12-15T19:15:00.000-06:00

The two kindergarten classes performed in their Christmas concert today. Becca was excited to be so dressed up for school! It was a very good performance, and all 59 children were really well behaved! We bought ourselves a new camera for Christmas, and I used it to video the concert. Unfortunately, it shoots such high quality video that I don't have anything that will edit or post it!
Also, yesterday was a really special day at school. Girls from the high school came to Becca's class and helped them make Gingerbread Houses. Becca has eaten almost all of hers!

Becca is ready to perform.

All of the students in the two classes.

Being silly with friends after the concert!

Fred is listening to Becca's Build A Bear iPod. She said that this is the happiest she has seen him!

Fancy Parties

2011-12-14T12:26:00.000-06:00

We went to a party last night at Daddy's Medical Society. Becca was quite upset that we didn't dress as fancy as she did. She was the only child there, but she really enjoyed herself. She told Victor that using his ipone at such a fancy party was VERY un-royalty!

Look what came in the mail for Becca today. I opened it because it didn't have a return address... do you think this was in response to the letter she mailed to Santa? I'm not sure where it came from, but I know she will be thrilled! Makes you wonder, huh?

She Dressed Herself And Fixed Her Own Hair

2011-12-11T18:26:00.000-06:00

We Are Ready for Christmas!

2011-12-11T18:12:00.000-06:00

Create a slideshow design

Birthday Video

2011-12-06T18:44:00.001-06:00

Breakfast with Santa

2011-12-06T12:28:00.002-06:00

Customize your own digital slideshow

Happy 6th Birthday!

2011-12-06T11:52:00.002-06:00

Personalize your own free picture slideshow

On Saturday, Becca had her first ever birthday party with friends. All of the girls had a wonderful time. We went to Noah's Art, and had a Barbie Princess themed party. Becca and her 13 guests made crowns, magic wands, bracelets, and painted magical Barbie pictures.

Remember The First Time You Saw This Face?

2011-12-03T08:52:00.000-06:00

Wow, it has been 5 years since we first saw this beautiful face! On November 30, 2006, we received "The Call" that we had a daughter waiting for us in China. We spent December 1 eagerly awaiting our package that would finally reveal our daughter's face. I remember both of us sitting on the couch, holding the envelope. We were so eager, but so apprehensive. Then, we saw this lovely girl and immediately fell in love! What a journey we've had! We love you, Becca!!!

Thanksgiving In St. Louis

2011-12-03T08:44:00.000-06:00

A free digital slideshow by Smilebox

The Weekend Before Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T18:37:00.002-06:00

This free digital slideshow generated with Smilebox

I'm Back

2011-11-15T12:32:00.000-06:00

We have had a few hectic weeks here, so not a lot of pictures to post. I was a bit under the weather one weekend, and then worked a lot last week subbing at Becca's school. I haven't even carried my real camera around in 2 weeks! I did take a few photos with the iPhone, though!

Becca was so proud of herself...she did her own hair!

She bought this Rapunzel tower with her very own money.

Mommy got some shiny new shoes!

Somehow we managed to lose a mitten from last year, so we had to buy a new set!

Dancing before Mass on Sunday.

Duets

2011-11-03T17:05:00.000-06:00

Becca and Granddaddy spent a lot of time playing the piano. They also were quite talented with a kazoo (Becca) and comb/wax paper (Granddaddy).

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-03T16:37:00.001-06:00

Personalize your own digital slideshow

We just had a wonderful visit from Grandmama and Granddaddy. They arrived here Thursday afternoon, and stayed until Wednesday morning. That means they spent their first Halloween with Becca! Their visit also coincided with conference days and holidays at school, so Becca was out of school the whole time they were here.

Becca had a great time playing with the grandparents, and of course Halloween was the highlight of the weekend. Becca was in rare form as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. As part of our weekend festivities, we carved pumpkins. Can you believe that Grandmama, Granddaddy, and I have never carved pumpkins? Becca either, for that matter! We had a lot of fun learning how to carve them! It's a good thing Victor knew how to get us started!

We also had a special treat Sunday afternoon. I wanted my parents to see Becca's new Kindergarten room, so we went by the school. We saw Father outside, and I told him we were going to peep in the windows (just so he'd know what we were doing). He unlocked the building for us and let us go into the classroom and look around! Becca was thrilled that everyone was able to see her classroom!

Happy Halloween to you all!

Ready for Halloween

2011-10-24T19:41:00.000-06:00

A free digital slideshow by Smilebox

Missouri Homecoming

2011-10-18T17:31:00.001-06:00

Slideshow design made with Smilebox

Daisy Investiture Ceremony

2011-10-12T12:52:00.000-06:00

Girl Scouts

2011-10-12T12:25:00.000-06:00

This free digital slideshow generated with Smilebox

Friday after school was our first Daisy Scout Meeting. Becca is in a troop made up of girls from the two Kindergarten classes at her school. 23 girls! I am a co-leader, so I get to be there for all of the fun! Becca really likes the fact that there are NO BOYS involved!

Saturday night we went to an OktoberFest Party sponsored by the local Medical Society Alliance. We went on a hay ride to find pumpkins, and then all of the kids decorated the pumpkins. Becca enjoyed meeting and playing with some new friends.

Monday night was the Daisy Investiture Ceremony, where the girls were officially inducted into the Girl Scouts and given their Daisy pins. The girls recited the Girl Scout Pledge and Promise, and also sang two Daisy songs.

Another Beautiful Fall Weekend

2011-10-05T10:03:00.002-06:00

Create a free slideshow

School Photo

2011-09-28T18:53:00.001-06:00

More Fall Fun

2011-09-27T11:54:00.000-06:00

We had a busy weekend once again with all of the local festivals. In between all of our fun activities, we went to see the movie Dolphin Tale, which is based on a true story of a dolphin that has a prosthetic tail. The really cool thing is that we were in Clearwater, FL last year and actually saw Winter, the dolphin featured in the movie. The movie was a very heart warming family movie, and we would all recommend it. Check out the link above and see the real Winter!

Free digital slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Rainy Weekend

2011-09-20T18:20:00.000-06:00

Create your own free slideshow design

We FINALLY got some much needed rain! Of course, it was on the weekend, so we missed out on some of our planned festivals. But, we managed to have fun anyway! Becca and Daddy picked out a new game and played it several times. We went to a Kidgits "Around the World Festival", where Becca was able to do some crafts and learn about several countries. We were able to watch some college football games because we stayed home, and our teams all won! On Sunday afternoon we attended Becca's school/church production of the musical Tom and Huckleberry. Hopefully she will be in one of their future plays!

Happy Birthday, Daddy! We Love You!

2011-09-14T11:06:00.001-06:00

Randomness From This Week

2011-09-14T11:05:00.000-06:00

Since Becca started reading, we've been leaving messages back and forth on the fridge. Monday night I had a meeting, and Becca missed me a bit, so at bedtime she said I was the best and to please tell Daddy. So her note was to him, asking why didn't he say that what she said was sweet!

I walked Becca in yesterday because I had a meeting at school, and we ran into The Cat In The Hat!

And Clifford was out back!

Don't know if you can see this very well, but this is what a white uniform shirt looks like at the end of the day!

3 Days, 7 Festivals!

2011-09-13T12:40:00.000-06:00

This free slideshow made with Smilebox

Like Daddy

2011-09-09T09:34:00.000-06:00

Remember Daddy's bike accident? Becca took a spill yesterday at recess. She's fine, and sporting one of Daddy's big bandages today!

More Gators!

2011-09-07T12:08:00.001-06:00

Go Gators!

2011-09-07T12:07:00.002-06:00

St. Louis

2011-09-07T11:29:00.000-06:00

Picture slideshow created with Smilebox

We went to St. Louis for the holiday weekend. Saturday was spent with family. We watched lots of football (well, Mama and Daddy did) and enjoyed seeing everyone. Sunday we went to Mass and then Victor and I snuck off for a date. Becca had a great time baby sitting Papa and Norna!

Silver Dollar City

2011-08-30T18:03:00.001-06:00

Slideshow created with Smilebox

We spent much of the day Saturday running errands and doing things around the house. Becca and Victor did go off to Incredible Pizza for a while, where she rode the bumper cars for the first time.

Sunday, we went to Mass in Branson so that we could go to Silver Dollar City afterwards. We stopped and ate at Mel's Hard Luck Diner, becaue they have a singing wait staff and we thought Becca would enjoy it. While we were sitting there waiting, a man with a long white beard came up and talked to Becca. He told her that if she was good and listened to her parents, he would come visit her house on Christmas Eve. Then he asked her if she liked Mickey (yes), and if she knew what time it was (no). He then reached into his stocking (yes, he had one in August) and pulled out a watch for her! It was all rather strange...he just appeared beside us, and just as quietly he was gone again!

Victor had been on the phone during this exchange, and only glanced up to see someone. When we showed Victor the watch, he asked Becca if she had picked it out of Santa's stocking. She replied, "No, Daddy. Santa does NOT want little kids looking in his stocking. It would spoil the surprise!"

We had fun at Silver Dollar City, but nothing compares with seeing Santa! We did watch the glass blower and a woman weaving baskets, and Becca and Daddy rode lots of rides. We also listened to some good old gospel music.

By the way, Becca helped write the captions for the slide show!

Amazing Maggie

2011-08-22T17:47:00.000-06:00

Becca has trained Maggie to do her first trick (see photos from previous post about Amazing Pets show)...

Weekend Excitement

2011-08-22T12:55:00.001-06:00

This free slideshow made with Smilebox

The morning before the second day of school went much better than the first...no tears from anyone! Becca was very excited when she came home to tell me that she had used the computer at school. She also made a new friend, and that is always good to hear.

Victor was riding his bike Saturday morning and had an accident. The bike slid as he was braking while going down a steep trail, and he was pretty banged up. Becca and I went to pick him up. I had warned Becca that Daddy might be bleeding or scratched up, so she was fine when she saw him; I was the one that cried! Needless to say, we didn't do too much this weekend.

We did go to an Amazing Pets show, which WAS pretty amazing. Becca really enjoyed the animals...cats, dogs, birds, pigs, a donkey. Jake and Maggie better watch out, as she is now ready to train them for a show!

By the way, I am loving Becca's haircut! She decided she wanted it shorter before school started, and I think it looks fantastic on her!

I Survived The First Day of Kindergarten!

2011-08-18T17:41:00.000-06:00

Tuesday Afternoon...Ready for the Ice Cream Social. We took supplies and met the teacher. Becca also saw some of her classmates!

Enjoying her ice cream with Paige and Riley.

Thursday...Loving the uniform!

She's officially a Kindergartener!

First day fun!

After school, she wanted to eat the rest of her lunch!

These are some of the signs in our "hotel"...read more about them below.

Yes, I survived the first day of Kindergarten, although I must admit it was rougher than I thought it would be. Becca has been so excited, and so ready to go that I was thoroughly surprised this morning when she cried and cried before we even got ready to leave! She kept saying that she was tired, but she finally admitted that she didn't want to be gone all day long. How heartbreaking! I realized last night that Becca and I have never been apart for as long as the school day was today! After all of the emotion at home, she was just fine at school. I walked her in rather than drop her off in the car line as planned. I'm glad I did, as I think every other parent was in the school!

When we picked her up (Victor managed to come, too), she was so excited. She told us that they had 3 recesses, and a rest time (but with no beds), and snack time, and lunch, and library, and prayers, and PE. She survived her 20 minute lunch period (at 10:55) and ate most of her lunch. I was worried because she usually takes an hour or so to eat a meal! And, she had the nerve to tell me that she didn't miss me at all!

As for the hotel signs above, Becca decided to make our house into a hotel after watching an Olivia episode. We have signs everywhere! See if you can read the ones I posted!

More Camp Panda

2011-08-14T19:26:00.003-06:00

Some video from the Friday Exhibition. I was so proud of Becca during the language portion. She needed no prompting, and remembered everything she was supposed to say. "Hello. My name is Becca. I am 5 years old. Thank you. Good-bye." The lion dance was the culmination of the program. Becca is the last little lion! Sorry for the poor video, but I was also watching the other kids and had to stop at times to help out! It was a fun week!

Camp Panda

2011-08-14T18:18:00.004-06:00

This free picture slideshow created with Smilebox

Becca and I attended Camp Panda, a Chinese Culture Camp, this past week. This is our third year at the camp. I have volunteered each year and work with Becca's group, the Little Butterflies, all 3-5 year olds. I didn't get to spend much time with Becca, as I worked with the younger ones in our group most of the time, and they were quite time consuming!!!!

Becca and Emma, the little girl in most of the pictures with her, have been at camp all 3 years together. It is kind of sad, because they were the youngest 2 Chinese adoptees when they were 3, and they are still the youngest at camp at age 5. Just goes to show you how much adoption from China has slowed.

Camp lasted from 8 until 12 each morning. The children attended Music Class, Language Class, Kung Fu Class, and Art Class. In addition, Becca was in the Lion Dance group. On Friday, there was a presentation for all of the parents. Becca absolutely loved being on stage!

Friday night, we went to the Butterfly House for a special night time show. The butterflies were all asleep, but we were able to go through a mirror maze, a bungee maze and the magical rainforest room, where we used firefly lanterns to search for sleeping butterflies. Becca LOVED playing the magical laser light harp and dancing with a fairy!

On Saturday we went to the Route 66 Festival. Becca wasn't that interested in the old cars, but she did LOVE playing with Coco the puppy!!

Today we once again enjoyed breakfast served by Daddy and the Knights of Columbus after Mass! Becca thinks it is great fun to see Daddy in an apron!

Theater Camp

2011-08-08T15:56:00.005-06:00

Becca spent each morning last week at her first theater camp. The camp was called "All The World's A Broadway Stage" and each group "went" to a different country and learned a song from a musical. Becca was in a group of sixteen 4 and 5 year olds. They learned "Hakuna Matata" from The Lion King. They also sang a bit of "It's A Small World" with the entire cast of over 100 children!

It is a very shaky video, and sometimes Becca is off screen for a second. It's hard for me to watch her and mind the camera at the same time! Becca was very interested in directing the other kids. She said that she didn't want the teachers to think the children didn't know what to do! She really enjoyed her days at camp and says she is ready to go next year!

13 Wonderful Years!

2011-08-02T18:14:00.002-06:00

Left Click to Enlarge Photo

We celebrated our anniversary Saturday (rather than Monday) by going to Branson to see Cirque Montage, which was a wonderful show. Afterwards, we went to Candlestick Inn for a romantic dinner for three. Becca was very excited and wanted to dress in her "wedding" dress for the festivities!

Crafts

2011-07-28T17:49:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, Becca made this beautiful wedding veil by following the directions in a Crafts for All Seasons book that she found in her closet. (I had put it away until she was older, and then promptly forgotten about it.) She read about the craft, got all her materials, and assembled her veil by following the directions. All without my help. She did tell me that she used tape instead of staples, because she thought that was safer.

Beautiful, right. Upon closer inspection... It seems that the materials list called for "tissue paper", so...

Trying to Beat the Heat

2011-07-25T17:50:00.003-06:00

It has been SOOOO hot for the past 2 weeks, and it is continuing this week. We've been trying to avoid outdoor activities, with the exception of swimming. Luckily, we've found a few things to keep us busy!

Busy Week Back Home

2011-07-19T18:56:00.004-06:00

A digital slideshow by Smilebox

We returned from Georgia to a busy week at home. Becca had soccer camp at Catholic High School. Even though camp was in the mornings, temps were in the 90's during camp. It was HOT! Becca had a great time and learned a lot, but decided that soccer is probably not her thing. She didn't want to go on the one day that it rained, and I explained to her that REAL soccer players played in the rain and mud. She said she thought bowling was better for her!

Wednesday night we went to Incredible Pizza for a VIP event. Yep, sad to say that we are VIPs at Incredible Pizza! (Actually, you get enough freebies after you join that it pays for itself pretty quickly.) As we were eating our free buffet, Becca looked up and said, "Wow, I'm glad they invited us. They must know that we like parties!"

Becca was thrilled again on Sunday to be served breakfast by Daddy and the other Knights of Columbus. She just loves seeing him in an apron!

Nothing Like Beach Ballet!

2011-07-12T19:10:00.001-06:00

St. Simons Island

2011-07-12T18:40:00.002-06:00

Customize your own digital slideshow

We were able to go to the beach for a few days while we were in Georgia. It was definitely the highlight of our trip. Becca had a blast playing in the waves and sand. She and Daddy spent some time geochaching, which is like hunting for treasure using a GPS. We ate some good seafood and enjoyed shopping in the quaint little shops. By far the best thing was just watching Becca play on the beach.

Georgia Vacation

2011-07-12T18:02:00.002-06:00

Personalize your own photo slideshow

We just returned from a wonderful week in Georgia at my parent's house. We flew down on Saturday, July 2 and returned home July 10. Here's a synopsis of our trip:

Saturday: Travel day and time with Grandmama and Grandddaddy

Sunday: Church (Becca and I enjoyed going to Children's Church), followed by a visit from Aunt Linda and Uncle Marion. Swimming later that day.

Monday: Huge July 4 party with family and friends. More swimming and lots of good food!

Tuesday-Thursday: We drove down to St. Simon's Island for some beach time. More pictures from that trip to follow.

Friday: Swimming in the morning, and Mommy and Daddy had a date in the afternoon. Becca helped make pizza for our supper.

Saturday: More swimming, then a visit from relatives. A storm knocked out the power, so after everyone left, we hit the pool again to cool off!

Sunday: Travel home.

Happy Belated July 4th

2011-07-11T18:09:00.003-06:00

Grandmama, Becca, and Granddaddy

Here's a teaser photo from our Georgia trip. I have over 400 more plus videos to edit, so it may be a while before I post again! We had a wonderful time, but it's good to be home!

Swim Lessons

2011-06-27T18:41:00.001-06:00

Weekend Fun

2011-06-27T18:22:00.002-06:00

Personalize your own slideshow design

Friday night we all attended a Family Mass to end our week of Vacation Bible School. I am so thrilled that Becca went this year and that she had such a wonderful time. The late nights were worth it!

Saturday we went to a Kidgits program at the mall and Becca had a chance to make a hat and pick up a few toys...including the lovely yellow braid she is sporting in many of her pictures! Then we hit a playground for a bit of fun.

Sunday morning, Victor volunteered with the Knights of Columbus and served breakfast after two of the masses. Becca was THRILLED to see her Daddy wearing an apron and working in the kitchen! When he finally came home, she and I took him to see Cars 2 so he could relax a bit!

Prince and Princess Ballet Camp

2011-06-21T12:21:00.004-06:00

Video from the Parent Performance on Friday afternoon...

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-21T11:54:00.003-06:00

Free slideshow design made with Smilebox

We had a wonderful Father's Day Weekend! Friday, Becca finished up her week-long Prince and Princess Ballet Camp. I was able to attend the final performance, and Becca was wonderful! She was so funny, though. The girls were Princess Aurora and the one boy was the prince. Becca was not very thrilled at having to dance with him!

Since it was Father's Day weekend, Victor picked our activities. On Saturday, we went to Incredible Pizza where Becca and her Daddy played games. On Sunday after Mass, we all went bowling...Becca for the first time. We had a great time. I used a 10 pound ball, and the smallest they had for Becca was 6 pounds! I don't know how, but she managed it!

This week is crazy hectic for us. Becca has a gymnastics class, a ballet class, swim lessons and Vacation Bible School! And summer is just getting started!

Final Update for Week

2011-06-13T18:48:00.003-06:00

When we were in St. Louis, Victor went to a conference in Vegas. We came home on Saturday, and he made it back Sunday afternoon. We were both thrilled to see him!

Today Becca went to a new gymnastics class, which she really loved. She also went to her first camp...Prince and Princess Ballet camp. She really enjoyed it, and will be there each afternoon this week.

Create your own free digital slideshow

Slide Problems

2011-06-13T18:37:00.002-06:00

I don't know why the slide shows are so small, and I have no idea what to do about them!!!! Sorry. Problem seems to be with AOL. If I log in using Explorer, the photos are full size. Go figure.

St. Louis Trip, Part 2

2011-06-13T18:29:00.003-06:00

Make your own free photo slideshow

On Wednesday, we went with Val to the Botanical Gardens. It was HOT! Becca really enjoyed playing in the sprinklers to cool off! Wednesday evening, we went to visit Uncle Gib and Aunt Betty. Notice there are no pictures from Thursday? That's because I got some nasty little bug that kept me in bed all day. But Becca did enjoy her time with Norna and Papa that day.

We went to The Magic House on Friday and had a wonderful time playing. That afternoon, we visited Aunt Lil in the nursing home. Aunt Lil really perked up when she saw Becca, and Becca was really sweet during her visit.

Saturday morning we came home so that we could go to a picnic with our adoption group that evening. More on that later.

St. Louis Trip, Part 1

2011-06-13T18:06:00.004-06:00

Free slideshow customized with Smilebox

Becca and I just returned from a wonderful week in St. Louis! It was a big trip for us, as it was our first time in St. Louis without Daddy, and my first time driving in the big city! I wanted to take Becca so that she could spend some quality time with her grandparents, and I wanted us to be able to visit some of the places that we never have time to visit on our short weekends.

We arrived in St. Louis late Sunday evening and had some time to play with Papa and Norna. On Monday, we went to the zoo with Val. Despite the heat, we had a wonderful time. Our favorite part of the day was watching a baby elephant play in the water. He was having a ball! We also really enjoyed the sea lion show.

On Tuesday, Becca and I went to City Museum. She absolutely loved playing on all of the ramps and climbing around. (We did not go in any tunnels or secret passage ways!) We had time to paint and draw, make paper cuttings, get our faces painted, and even went to a magic show!

June 4

2011-06-13T17:44:00.009-06:00

We've been gone for a while, so I have some older pictures to post. June 4, I had a massage (part of my Mother's Day gifts), so Becca and Daddy hung out together. They went to the library for the summer reading program kick-off, went to a book signing, and went to play at Incredible Pizza. Later, we all went to play with an ADORABLE puppy!

Make a free slideshow

Look At Her Go!

2011-06-03T17:15:00.007-06:00

The good thing about the hot weather is that our neighborhood pool is already warm enough to swim in. Today was our first time at the pool this season.

Left Click Collage to Enlarge

Okay, so I recorded the first part of the video with the camera sideways...

St. Louis Weekend

2011-05-31T17:33:00.007-06:00

Customize a digital slideshow

Friday morning, Becca and I went to Barnes and Noble to see Peter Rabbit. He was really entertaining! That afternoon, we picked up Daddy from work and headed to St. Louis for the holiday weekend.

On Saturday, we went to Uncle Gib's 80th birthday party. Victor was asked to make a speech about his Godfather at the party. When Becca heard Daddy was making a speech, she went and wrote one of her own. On the way to the party, she said it would be the "Best Speech Day EVER!" She made her little speech in front of more than 30 people, many of them strangers to her. She did a great job! After the party, Victor and I were able to go out for a bit while Becca watched Norna and Papa!

Sunday we went to Mass and then had a bit of company over to spend some time with Becca. Victor and I again got to go on a date!

Monday morning Becca dressed in red, white, and blue. She said, "I could say the pledge to myself. I am the Grand Old Flag." Ha! She is too funny!

Here is Becca's speech for Gib. (I put what she is saying below the video).

"Gib is going to be 80 on Saturday and we are going to sing "Happy Birthday" and I am going to talk about him. And we are going out to eat. The girls dress pretty and the boys dress like boys at the restaurant at St. Louis. Talk about it, Dad."

Soccer Star!

2011-05-25T18:15:00.000-06:00

Becca's Play, Night, and Camping Tent

2011-05-24T18:23:00.001-06:00

Becca helped me with the title! This is our coffee table downstairs. And Becca and Jake are in there somewhere!

Fun Weekend (I need more original titles!)

2011-05-23T13:18:00.000-06:00

Picture slideshow made with Smilebox

Weekend Update

2011-05-18T12:18:00.004-06:00

Go Bears!

Soccer Medal

Becca had her last soccer game on Saturday. She has decided that she would rather not play this summer. She doesn't want to play in the heat and possibly rain, but might try again for Fall indoor soccer!

We are trying to firm up summer plans/activities/camps. We dropped all but ballet after school started, but we are going to add some back for the summer. This week, we have tried a new swimming class, a new gymnastics class, and are going tomorrow for a free trial at a new arts place. That should be a lot of fun! Becca will do several week long "camps" this summer. She has a Prince and Princess Ballet camp, a Little Theatre acting camp (which I think she will REALLY love), Camp Panda (the Chinese culture camp we go to each year) and Vacation Bible School. Sounds like we have a full summer planned!

My Ballerina

2011-05-11T12:14:00.001-06:00

Best Mother's Day Ever!

2011-05-09T12:23:00.000-06:00

We had another wonderful weekend. Saturday Becca had a soccer game, and Daddy was able to go for the first time! The score wasn't pretty, but Becca had fun! After the game, we went downtown to ArtsFest, where Becca wanted to do EVERYTHING! That's what she kept telling me. ArtsFest is a huge fine arts festival held every spring. Along with the artist exhibiting their wares are different stages featuring a variety of dancers, musicians, singers, and other entertainers. We were able to watch the ballet perform, and Becca was especially thrilled to see Ms. Marsha dance! There is also a section just for kids, where all of the crafts are free. They even have one shopping booth just for the kids. Artists dontate pieces, and everything has one price for easy shopping. Becca picked out a Mother's Day gift for me there. We were able to watch the ballet perform, and Becca was especially thrilled to see Ms. Marsha dance! After ArtsFest, we went to dinner and then Becca and Daddy headed out for some shopping.

Sunday, Becca brought me breakfast in bed. Then she took me into the living room to open my presents! After Mass and lunch at one of my favorite Italian restaurants, we went to Mother's Day at the farm, and Becca had more craft time! We spent some time in the afternoon playing outside...well, Becca played, while I dozed in the hammock under the shade of our willow tree! Wonderful day, wonderful weekend, wonderful family!

This free slideshow design generated with Smilebox

Weekend in Kansas City

2011-05-04T13:28:00.001-06:00

I am trying out a new slideshow program, and I sure hope it works okay.

Friday morning we went to Kansas City for a much needed weekend away from home (for me, anyway!) We went to Union Station and then the Crowne Center. We toured an Under the Sea Exhibit, went to the Hallmark Visitors Center, and then went to a family craft time at Kaleidoscope. After an afternoon of fun, we checked into Great Wolf Lodge. What a neat place! Becca went in her pj's to the lobby for storytime Friday night. Then, she got to meet the mascots of the lodge.

On Saturday, Victor went to a conference, so Becca and I hung out at the hotel. We went on a wolf walk, where we learned about some of the wild animals on display at the lodge, then went to play Bingo and even had time for a craft! After that, we hit the water park. It was fun, but exhausting! I still have bruises on my body from the not so lazy river!

Sunday morning we attended Mass in Overland Park, then began the drive back home. We made it back in time for Becca to go to a Cinderella workshop with the ballet. More crafts, dancing, and fun with her friends!

Picture slideshow made with Smilebox

Short and Sassy

2011-04-25T14:31:00.000-06:00

We've been growing Becca's hair and bangs out so that we could put it up in a bun for her ballet performance. Yesterday she told me she wanted to get it cut, and she wanted it washed. I was all for it, so we headed out today. Becca told the girl exactly what she wanted. (We'll let it grow out again for her next performace, which won't be until December.)

I wish I could get my hair washed as comfortably as this.

She loves it!

Easter Sunday

2011-04-25T14:24:00.000-06:00

With her Easter basket.

Beautiful!

Becca with EB, from the movie HOP.

Becca and Papa at lunch.

With Grandma Norna.

Becca took this picture of us.

Enjoying frozen yogurt.

Peter Rabbit

2011-04-25T14:12:00.000-06:00

Becca performed in her first ballet, Peter Rabbit, this weekend. The entire cast was comprised of kids from 4-12 years old. Becca was cast as part of the gate. Last week she had 2 hour rehearsals each night, and then we were at the theater on Saturday from 10 until a little after 3:00. I had to learn how to put her hair in a bun and to apply stage makeup! Very stressful. Mama was exhausted after the performances, but Becca took it all in stride. She loved being on stage, and can't wait until her next performance. She had a small role, but she has been listening to the CD and practicing all of the other parts at home. I think she can just about do the entire ballet from memory! (I know some of the photos are blurry... problems with camera setting, not the photographer. HA!)

Ready for dress rehearsal.

Wearing her Peter Rabbit performance t-shirt.

She got this bowl from the star of the show!

Saturday morning, headed for the theater.

There was a cast party in between the 2 performances.

Most of the cast after the performance.

Becca sitting behind Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail.

It's "The Gate": Becca, Kate, Emmaline, Hannah, Ellie, Megan

Becca and Grandma Norna.

Peter Rabbit and Becca

Daddy and Becca

Grandma Norna, Daddy, Papa, and Becca.

Getting Ready for Easter

2011-04-25T13:32:00.000-06:00

Friday we dyed Easter eggs.

Finished eggs.

Thanks, Grandmama and Granddaddy! I'm ready to take a bite!

Of course she started with the chocolate covered strawberries!

Preschool Easter Party

2011-04-25T13:15:00.000-06:00

Last Wednesday, I helped out at Becca's preschool Easter party. What fun!

The class gets ready to listen to an Easter story.

Wearing her bonnet, waiting to go on an egg hunt!

Where are those eggs?

Posing with the bunnies.

Ready to go back in.

Prayer before snack time.

Playing games. (She didn't drop the egg!)

Weekend Wrap Up

2011-04-18T19:09:00.000-06:00

Once again I am battling with both blogger and my slide program. For some reason, neither wants to cooperate with me for uploading pictures. The only thing that I can do right now is make collages. So, here we go....

Saturday, Victor had an all day conference, so Becca and I were on our own. She played in her very first soccer game, and absolutely loved it. When you watch the video later, please keep in mind that she missed the only practice her team had and she has never even SEEN a soccer game. But, she was in for the start of her game! After the game, we dropped by the mall for a Kidgits Easter program, where she decorated a cookie and picked up a little candy. Then, home for lunch and a quick change for ballet rehearsal! Whew!

Saturday after Mass, we went to Bass Pro for more Easter fun. Becca hunted eggs in the store, made a craft, and had her picture made with the Easter Bunny!

Sunday afternoon we went to a Springfield Cardinals game. The Budweiser Clydesdales were there, as well as King the Dalmatian. The weather was perfect for the game, but sadly the Cardinals lost.

Today, Becca and I went to the mall to see this cute Easter Bunny. Becca wanted to wear her last year's yellow Easter dress. She says she is going to wear her new one for Easter, but I wouldn't bet on it!

It Must Be Close to Easter!

2011-04-14T18:24:00.000-06:00

We opened a surprise package from Norna and Papa on the way to ballet and found a bunny and ears!

(And lots more goodies, too!)

Putting candy in eggs to take to school for her party next week.

Of course she had to test the candy!

Decorating an Easter tree.

She did it all by herself!

Preschool Art Show

2011-04-11T18:39:00.001-06:00

All I can say is, "Wow!" We attended a Preschool Art Show tonight, and it was incredible! I can't believe how hard the kids (and the teachers) have been working! All of their work from the past few weeks was displayed in the hallway, along with information about the various artists. Then, the families were treated to dinner! What a fun night!

The children started their art unit with an introduction to primary colors and learned how to make secondary colors. They painted using a paper plate palette and wearing a beret. They studied Vincent Van Gogh, Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, Paul Cezanne, George Seurat, Jackson Pollack, and Michelangelo. They were read books about the artists and shown examples of their artwork. Then, they were able to paint!

Becca's still life of fruit, painted after studying Paul Cezanne.

Self-Portrait ... Vincent van Gogh painted lots of self-portraits.

Palette Painting. Notice the little Becca at the bottom right!

"Starry Night", painted just like Vincent van Gogh's!

More van Gogh...Sunflowers.

Love this! Becca's was the only one that had a title on it. Do you see Maggie and Jake?

A water color in the style of Claude Monet.

A collage like those of Henri Matisse.

After studying Michelangelo and learning about the Sistine Chapel, the kids lay on the floor and painted on paper taped to the underside of their tables. See the little Becca in the photo?

All of the students worked together to create this example of pointalism, in the style of George Seurat.

Painting like Jackson Pollack, the students worked together on this "action" painting. They went outside and splattered paint on the paper. This was Becca's favorite day of painting. She got to wear old clothes to school, put on TWO smocks, and cover her socks with plastic baggies....and she still came home with paint on her clothes and in her hair!

It Feels Like Summer!

2011-04-11T13:21:00.000-06:00

We had another busy, fun weekend, and for the first time I forgot the camera! Luckily, we had the IPhones to take pictures!

Saturday was another ballet practice for Peter Rabbit. The performanace will be soon! Becca is very excited about being on stage. Then we went to Silver Dollar City for World-Fest. It was wonderful, and not very crowed at all. They have a new section for younger kids, and Becca loved the swings and the carousel. She also LOVED her snack of ice cream topped with fresh strawberries! We also stopped to listen to a band from Equador. Becca really enjoyed them, and we stayed to hear several songs.

Sunday we went to Mass and then lunch. In the afternoon, we went to see Cinderella, a muscial at Catholic High School. It was directed by our priest, and we saw him and also Becca's teacher working at the concession stand. Becca was beside herself after seeing them both at the play! I was a bit worried when I saw the program and realized that all of the songs were different from the movie, but Becca loved the play. She wants to be in Cinderella and wants to play one of the stepsisters!

We came home and enjoyed a beautful evening outside while Dadddy cooked on the grill.

Saturday at Peter Rabbit rehearsal

Left Click to Enlarge Collage

Sunday...Ready to go see Cinderella at Catholic High School.

Posing with Cinderella!

With the evil stepmother!

With one of the stepsisters!

Random Photos

2011-04-06T18:05:00.000-06:00

This is how Becca dresses to "perform" at home

This was our first practice for ballet makeup and hair. It is very hard to put makeup on someone else, especially someone with such little features! I was surprised to find that the bun was easier to do than the makeup!

Side view of the bun.

Princess Tea and Children's Fashion Show

2011-04-04T17:59:00.000-06:00

We had a really nice weekend. Becca and I had to go to a ballet meeting on Saturday to learn how to do her hair and makeup for the Peter Rabbit performance. Then she had a rehearsal, and after that we came home to play outside in the beautiful weather. Then we went to see HOP, which we all really enjoyed.

Sunday was a fun day for the girls. We got all gussied up for the Princess Tea and Children's Fashion Show, sponsored by the Springfield Ballet. This year, it was held at Highland Springs Country Club. Boy, was I nervous to see all of the white tablecloths and REAL plates and glasses! We enjoyed snacks, a fashion show, and excerpts from ballet performances. Then the real fun began. All of the children were called up to the stage to dance with the ballerinas. Becca had a blast, and loved performing for the crowd.

(Sorry for the poor quality of the video, but I think you can spot Becca. FYI, I'm not the one talking!)

All About Me

2011-03-31T19:34:00.001-06:00

Becca will be featured on the "All About Me" bulletin board in her classroom next week. She has been waiting for this for a long time. She brought home the information yesterday, and also some Scholastic books that we had ordered. When I picked her up from school, she said, "Mama, there is so much excitement in my book bag today!"

Left click on the photo to enlarge.

I helped her with the spelling, but the writing is all Becca.

Parties and Bouncing

2011-03-29T18:11:00.000-06:00

Saturday we went to a birthday party, ballet rehearsal for Peter Rabbit, and a fundraiser party. Sunday we went to Mass, a new frozen yogurt store, and a new jump house. Sorry for the short post, but AOL keeps disconnecting, and this is my 2nd time doing this. UGH!

Saturday afternoon at Abby's party, which was at a local gymnastics club.

Beautiful cake from the movie Tangled

Saturday night at a fundraiser for a Chinese orphanage. Becca wanted the ocean on her cheeks and the sun on her forehead.

Painting a picture frame

Sunday morning at Fruityland enjoying the frozen yogurt.

She seems to be enjoying the slide!

I have signs like this all over my house. This one was for a new museum that Becca was running!

This one is on the refrigerator. "Yay. Back to school tomorrow. Me in my car." And don't I look like a ladybug driving the car???

Belle

2011-03-22T16:16:00.002-06:00

Fun Weekend

2011-03-22T15:43:00.000-06:00

We started our weekend a little early...a birthday party on Friday for twin girls in Becca's class. It was at Ted E. Bear's Toy Factory, and Becca came home from the party with a stuffed giraffe that she named Ava. She had a great time at the party, as about half of the children there were from her class at school. On Saturday, Becca attended a program at the zoo, so Daddy and I had a bit of free time to run errands. Later that day she had ballet practice for Peter Rabbit. Sunday was such a beautiful day that we headed to Branson after Mass to go play putt-putt!

San Diego Videos

2011-03-17T18:22:00.000-06:00

I have not been able to upload video for some now, and believe me, I have spent hours trying. I may have solved the problem, but now I am having trouble typing. UGH!!! Here are a few from San Diego, but the quality is not very good. They have been saved in different formats, and I no longer have the originals. Sorry for the poor quality, but maybe you can make out enough to see we had fun!

The Gnomes Are Here!

2011-03-14T11:53:00.000-06:00

We saw Gnomeo and Juliet a couple of weeks ago, and I mentioned that I wanted a garden gnome. Well, look what Victor ordered! (Don't worry...we'll put them in the back yard!) Becca says that if she goes outside and finds one of them in a different position, we'll know that they come to life at night! Oh, the fun I could have with that....