As you can see, I am doing a little modernizing to the blog. I will try to add more videos later. Meanwhile, tonight after Zoey got out of the bathtub, Goma called (since she could talk, she has called my mother and daddy Goma and Gopa). She wanted to talk to Goma - and as I was picking up stuff, I turned around and this is what she looked like.
Well, I promised an update on our trip to Ukraine – so here goes a month after the fact. (HEY! Life Happens) Anyway, Zoey calls Ukraine Mykraine. But, when we got to Ukraine and met up with friends it was Ourkraine. She tells me it is “Yourkraine”. It is so cute to hear her justify whose “kraine” it is.
We had a great time – but it was a hard trip. Actually, it was an awesome trip. Zoey and friend Peter did exceptionally well on the trip – all things considered. The trip was hard, fast, frustrating and emotional. But the kids handled it with such grace (as much as 3 year olds can!)
I decided I have a love/hate relationship with Ukraine. I love the country, its people, my friends there, the kids, the architecture, the culture…….but I’m not so in love with the ways, means and bureaucracy to get things done. The basic, ordinary, day-to-day ways of life are so difficult. And, it is really expensive there now – which creates more problems (not just for visitors, but for those living there). It is a sad/hard way to live.
Zoey and I left on December 4 and met with my friend Stefanie and Peter in New York. We then flew from JFK to Heathrow – then on to Kiev. Long flight, but the kids slept some and really acted well. We landed in Kiev around 1:30 on the 5th. My wonderful friend Bogdan met us at the airport and took us to our apartment, which was very nice. Really close to the city center.
We spent a few days in Kiev visiting friends and wondering around seeing the sights. The, on Saturday morning we left for Dnipropetrovs’k. We arrived around noon and Stefanie’s friend Denis picked us up and took us to an apartment near the orphanage. We unloaded our stuff then went to the orphanage. It was so awesome. Tears were flowing. Everyone remembered us and the kids and could not believe we returned. One of the first persons to greet us was the woman who brought Zoey in the day we met. She couldn’t believe how much she had grown. We spent some time with the Director. Then, went to visit the groupas. I couldn’t believe that a lot of the same kids from Zoey’s groupa was still there. Most of the same caregivers were there too – but some had left for other jobs since the number of kids at the orphanage has declined due to fostering. We had a great time visiting that day.
On Sunday, we got up and our goal was to see if we could track down Zoey’s birthparents and do some shopping. We went to the last address I had for them, but were told they were in the city. (for who don’t know --- I made contact with the birthparents about 4 months after returning from Ukraine in 2006 and have made one other contact with them in April 2007) We left a phone number for them to call us, but I never expected to hear from them. After leaving there – we went to do some searching for Stefanie and Peter. Then, we went to an art bazaar and did some shopping. By time we had done all the running around --- it was around 4pm. Since it was so late, I suggested we look for a place to eat – then we could just go home and not have to worry about food. So, we tracked down my pizza joint in Dnipro – and it was still there. We were enjoying the meal – when Denis’ phone rang. It was Zoey’s birth parents. They wanted to meet me. They did not know Zoey was in country and I was not going to tell them. Anyway, I started getting nervous. I had left this to God. My biggest question that never got answered was – did the birth mother want to know how Zoey was doing over the years. Or, did it hurt her to know. I wanted to know and hear for myself. Deep down, I have had mixed feelings since hearing the reasons Zoey was given up. You know these stories are never easy – but part of me tormented myself over the whole situation. Anyway --- my mind was racing as we were driving to meet them. That was the longest 15 minutes ever. The driver dropped me and Denis off at a McDonalds (public place) – then he took Stefanie and kids around the block and parked. As Denis and I were walking around – I was scanning the crowd. He didn’t know what they looked like, but I did. When I spotted them, a lump came up in my throat. As I walked toward them, I think they recognized me from some pictures I left for them earlier in the day. The birth father immediately shook my hand, but the birth mother held my hand, as I did hers for the longest time. She just starred at me and me at her. I never fully imagined what to expect, nor ever thought what I would feel. It was such an emotional visit. We spent an hour talking and I got more details about them, their families, and Zoey’s birth. I will forever be grateful for that hour with them. 5 minutes after meeting them, I knew they were good people. And, I knew I would let them see Zoey. So, as we were leaving, I asked them if they’d like to meet her. They did. When they met her – the birth father cried openly, but the birth mother cried silently. Just tears falling from her face. I was crying, just seeing them all together and realizing the magnitude of what was happening. Zoey didn’t understand why I was crying, and thought the “man” had done something to me. It was so overwhelming, but I am at peace now. The birth parents are very happy she is with me, they are happy she is in America. And, they want to know how she is growing and what she is doing. And that makes me feel good.
The next day, Monday, we went back to the orphanage, and the daytime caregivers were there and we got to see mine and Zoey’s favorite caregiver. She screamed when she saw us. She was so wonderful and I am glad we got to see her. We took the kids fruit and yogurt for their snacks and took some toys and shoes that Stefanie had collected.
All in all, the trip to Dnipro was worth every bit of hardship we experienced while in Ukraine. I am so glad I met the birthparents and see the caregivers again. We got up early Tuesday and went back to Kiev and wound up taking it easy. Wednesday, we got up and went to visit my friend Bogdan at Orphanage 12. We got to see all the improvements they had done there. It was incredible the changes that were made since the last time I was there. After the visit, we left for the airport.
I am so glad we went to Ukraine. I am thankful for the many friends I have made there. The weather was even half way decent. A little cold, but no snow. However, I think next time we will go in the spring.
With our favorite caregiver at BH#1
With Luba, my translator from adoption
Ok - so it has been a while. It just seems life catches up with you, then you get behind, then you get way behind trying to dig out --- then the task seems overwhelming. Life with a sassy, defiant, but charming 3 year old is never boring. Nor is it all that easy doing it alone. But, we take it a day at a time.
What has happened in the last 3 months? Well, princess woke up one day and said "I poopoo on the potty now" --- and we have never went back. That has been about 2 months now. I am over thrilled. Don't know the deciding factor for her --- but it was night and day. I was sick of poopy diapers. Now, of course --- the challenging side of all this is her fascination with EVERY public bathroom in the world. If anyone even says a word close to potty - she has to go. Though, some times she just wants to go and touch everything and see how grossed out and fussy I get.
We went to Maui in September. Had fun, but a little challenging (like the positive spin I use with this word?). (what I really want to say is traveling with a toddler on an 8 hour flight with no nap is like having a root canal, hysterectomy, and lobotomy without anesthesia --- -but I didn't want to sound so negative) I swore I'd never get on another airplane with her again........but like adoption paperwork, adoption waits, and 93 days in Ukraine - you soon forget the pain. (Or, did I miss the lobotomy?) We are headed to Ukraine in 3 weeks. I have been wanting to see my sponsored child in Kiev and visit friends. So, off we go. We are going with my friend in NY and her little boy --- and we can't wait to see them too. Gonna be an adventure with 2 toddlers on a 9 hour trip. Back to Maui - it was so awesome in lots of ways. The first time Zoey had waves come across her little feet --- she just giggled and screamed --- I got little tears just thinking where she came from and how well she has adjusted.
In early October - we got a new addition to the family. Brinks, our new doberman puppy. I think he was born bigger than Zoey is now - and now he about towers over us. And, he will only be 3 months old next week. He's gonna be big. But, we love him. The first couple of weeks were tough - he used Zoey as a chew toy --- but we have got him diverted now. Of course Spencer (my older cocker spaniel) probably has it out for me. I know he is thinking...... "first, the kid; now the puppy"!
Halloween was fun. This year - Zoey knew what to do and what to expect. It was fun watching her get the loot. Funny thing --- when she'd go to a house she'd say "trick or treating". She insisted on taking two bags, so we had the drama of which bag the candy goes in. Oye!
As for the adoption of #2 - I am putting that on hold for right now. I have been trying to sell the house - but with all the mortgage problems - things aren't moving these days. I did get an offer and waited it out --- but the buyers backed out 2 days before option period was up. So, right now we are taking a break. I know I am going to move --- so I will wait to see how things fall out before I start the process.
While in Ukraine - I will be blogging - but probably with no pictures till I get home. I am hoping for a fun visit. Since there will be no pressure from adopting or the sorts, it should be great. We are going back to Dnipropetrovs'k - to take the kids to visit the orphanage. I can't wait to see everyone there. I just can't believe it has been almost 2 years since I left for my adoption. My time flies.
Happy Thanksgiving to You all! More updates later.
Hands on Hips - her famous pose
Zoey and Brinks
My angel at Halloween
I can't believe today is August 1. Just yesterday it was May, Zoey's 3rd birthday, then surgery. (I had a complete hysterectomy for medical reasons on June 11 - but recovered really fast) I had 6 weeks off work for recovery (5 weeks of which rain fell all day). I had big plans to take Zoey to the water park and Zoo --- but it rained too much. So, basically I got a lot done around the house. I have my house on the market and hope to sell soon. I have found several houses I love and but have to wait until mine sells. I am going to move forward with the adoption of a second little girl after I get settled in to a new place. I have decided I am going to try Ukraine again. That is where my heart is and where my baby's heritage lies - so I have high hopes for her sibling to share that bond. So, off we go again! Once that time comes - I will open a blog for that child - because I am keeping the blog logs for their memory books.
Zoey meanwhile had her 3rd birthday check up. She is 24.4 lbs and 35.25 inches tall. My doctor says she is doing great and healthy as they come. I wish she weren't so stinking tiny. Potty training is not going that well. She will do #1 on the potty - but not #2. Also, she has a tendency to be hard-headed and just not go "cause I didn't want to". Her standard answer to anything these days is a roll of the eyes, shrug of the shoulders, and a "cause I didn't want to". Funny how when she has to go to her room and think things over - she all of a sudden wants to do whatever is being asked. How do they become so stubborn at 3?
Also, she comes home frequently and tells me she has a brother or sister. It changes daily. I always correct her and say sister. I don't think she really understands what a brother or sister entails (i.e. -- she will have to share me, her toys, her puppy, etc)
Here are some recent pictures. She is growing up before my very eyes.
Zoey wanted her picture taken in front of the flowers in the driveway on Sunday before church. I told her let's wait until mommy cleans out some weeds --- she didn't want to wait. How cute is this kid?
Well, I was going to go private - but several of you griped about logging in - fine - I will keep the status quo. A lot has happened since the last time I blogged. We had Easter, our first plane ride since coming home from Ukraine (which I keep telling myself is the last - but low and behold I go booking more trips), and graduated to the 3s in preschool. WooHoo!
Last year at Easter - Zoey didn't know about that looking for the thingee -- but this year - sister fought for the eggs. She cracks me up. My cousins 2 kids came to my parents house and we let them hunt eggs, and Zoey decided when they set their baskets down --- that she had found more eggs (and you know a fight ensued). Anyway - was a nice day.
The weekend after Easter we went to Cincinnati, Ohio. We met up with our friends the Bottos from Kentucky (they live about 5 minutes from CN) who adopted a little girl out of Kiev and the Senkiw-Krebs family. Stefanie adopted Peter from the same orphanage as Zoey. We had an awesome weekend and it was so amazing to see how much these kids have grown and changed since Ukriane. I spent the night with the Bottos on the first night, then we met Stefanie and Peter at a resort for the weekend. This was a great place. They have an indoor water park - HUGE. We took the kids --- and Zoey loved it. She still talks about the plane ride and water park.
The plane ride was an adventure in itself. Miss Hudini managed to get out of the seatbelt no matter how we strapped it. And, for grins - we screamed and kicked the seats in front of us. We cried. On the way back - same thing. Acutally, a guy in front of me turned around and asked "Have you heard of Benadryl?" Yes sir I have - it has the opposite effect on her. Man - "You haven't found the right dose - keep trying". If I wasn't so stressed - I would have thought that was funny.
What do I do --- come home and let a friend in Ft. Lauderdale talk me into coming to visit. So, next weekend - we try this again. This time --- I am taking a car seat. I am excited as we get to visit with the McCues and Blancos. The McCues adopted in the same region as us - but different orphanage --- and Lourdes adopted a little girl in Zoey's orphanage. Should be fun.
Also, in preschool Zoey is moving up. She will be in the 3's class starting on Monday. Zoey will be 3 on May 22. So, we are having her party on the 26th at a local waterpark. She is so excited.
Things are rocking along. It is mighty tough being a single mom. Being the sole discipliner. Being the sole income provider. I never knew in my wildest dreams how hard this was going to be. Some times I feel so overwhelmed. I wish for the life of me I had time each day for me. I am still trying to figure out how I can do this --- but right now no solutions. If anyone has advice - I am open to hear it. How can I make her play by herself and "get off me" -- she has to be up my rear every minute we are together. It is so hard.
Zoey is very strong willed and if she doesn't get her way --- a meltdown ensues. A friend of mine saw a meltdown today - and was like "girl - you better get a handle on that!" Geez - I know and I am trying to be consistent - but I got my work cut out for me. Some days I am just so tired I just walk away.
Will write more later and post some photos - but want to ask other parents and make sure can post their kids with Zoey.
Happy Memorial Day!
Jennifer
I am going to be restricting my blog to only readers that have permission. If you are still reading this blog and would like to continue, please let me know by e-mailing me at jhanks16@tx.rr.com and letting me know. I will start this in about a month. If you are family, friends, or a friend of the family that likes to keep up, please let me know. I will need your name and e-mail address and will send you information on how to log into the blog the same way you did before only now with a password.
On March 25, 2006 - Me, Mom and Zoey stepped off a LONG flight at DFW to a welcoming crowd of friends and family. I was already in tears after landing --- I could barely contain myself. I was happy, tired, stressed, nervous - and ready to get to my house. I am working on writing up the "real" last year. Meanwhile, here are some pictures of my precious baby - who is becoming a big girl.
The day started like any other. Except this morning it was rise and shine at 7am. I was already up since I really couldn’t sleep that night. Lyuba (my translator) had left to go get the city inspector to sign the papers so we could enter the orphanage. She said she’d be back “soon”. I showered, and then went to find breakfast for mother and me. It was minus 18 degrees that morning – so cold, yet I don’t remember feeling the weather. I was numb from the “what ifs” and unknowns about the child I was to meet. My nerves were shot. I was worn out from all the waiting. The whole process up to this point had weighed me down. I didn’t know how much more I could take. (little did I know) I went to a store we had found the day before – but they were not open. I looked for anything to be open – but at 8:00am not much was open. I took a different route back to the apartment – and found some street vendors selling breakfast items and wound up getting some pastries. Which were very tasty.
Mother and I ate – then we watched BBC. Nothing earth shattering – the minors in WV were still being analyzed as to what happened. So, we just waited and waited and waited. Played some solitaire and waited some more.
About a little after 9:00 am – Lyuba came back and said we would need to do a little “negotiating” to get a signature today – versus next week. So, we all loaded up and went to get the paper signed. It took 5 minutes. Then, we were off to the district inspector near the orphanage so he could approve us to enter the orphanage. (at a higher negotiating fee – I might add) Fast forward through the muck of negotiations – and we were allowed to go to the orphanage – which was less than a mile from there.
I remember driving up thinking how drab. It looks somber. Then I saw some little play areas and statues – that brightened up the place. None of it really mattered. All I could think about was the child I was about to meet – and all the time I had waited – how she was a child who needed a home – how I was a mother who needed a child. How God had brought me here – to this child. How I would react if she wasn’t what I “expected”. How selfish I was. How long this day was. It was now about 11:15. The car stopped. So did my heart. Lyuba turned around and sternly said “come on”.
We entered the orphanage – more drabness. Lyuba asked where the director’s office was and we followed a lady to the office. It was upstairs and there were two chairs in a waiting area – so mom and I sat down. Lyuba talked with the director – told her we were there to see a child. She then came back and waited a bit with us – then was called back to the director’s office. Mom and I started seeing kids come by, screaming, laughing etc. Here is the conversation:
Mom: That’s her.
Jennifer: No, that’s not her.
Mom: That’s her.
Jennifer: No, that’s a boy.
Mom: I know that’s her.
Jennifer: That child has blonde hair and blue eyes.
Mom: Maybe her hair got lighter.
Jennifer: “eyes rolling”
More minutes passed. It seemed like an eternity. Then, I see a lady in a white robe (orphanage doctor) walk up the stairs. She is holding a baby – who looks kind of scared. But me? I get the biggest lump in my throat, I let out a gulp and burst into tears. Her referral photo was not much to look at – but her eyes were the dead give-away. I knew that was my child. Linda heard me and started crying too. Lyuba ran out and said that was my baby. And, she had tears in her eyes. I stood up – and walked toward the director’s office – then she summoned me to come in. I just could not take my eyes off of Zoey. The doctor asked would I like to hold her. OF COURSE! Zoey came to me easily – didn’t cry – just sat on my lap. I gave her some apple juice and a cookie. She ate them so fast – mom and I were startled at how fast she consumed them – then was looking for more.
Since we got there so late – it was nearing lunch and naptime. But, they told me I could come back that afternoon. We left the orphanage – went to find a nearby apartment. I told Lyuba immediately – start the paperwork. I knew this was my child.
It has been a year to the day since I met Zoey. Time has flown by. Yet I can remember every day of the 93 I spent in Ukraine waiting and trying to get my baby home. Yes, there were days I slept 20 hours – but I remember everything that happened in my sleep.
I would also like to say Congratulations to the McCues ---- as I was going through my first day with Zoey – they were going through the same thing with their daughter Rachel. They had different circumstances – but they had their own set of nerve racking things to deal with. We both came home with incredible baby girls.
What a year. What a blessing. Thank you God for bringing this child into my family’s lives.
One year ago today, I had my appointment with the NAC in Ukraine. You can scroll back to February 2, 2006 and read the events of the day. It was a traumatic day for me. I look back now and have a whole new perspective on the day and how much God took control and blessed me beyond my wildest dreams.
With that said - here is the referral photo for Zoey. At the time - I thought it was horrendous, but my views of it today are bittersweet.
Welcome to my life baby girl! I love you!
Maybe I should post a photo of the loot. It was too much. Zoey was so over-stimulated. Next year - definitely a gift minimum! But hey - her first Christmas was awesome. All of the stuff you see was hers. A wagon, tricycle, bicycle, coloring desk, dolls, stuffed animals - you name it.
Zoey is growing so much and talking so much. It is so amazing. Amazing as to where she was 10 months ago. This time last year - I was sitting in Kiev - hanging with mom - tackling that blasted hill - hanging with the Bottos - sleeping (which by the way - I could use some major sleep these days). Just waiting and not knowing what was going on. Little did I know in 11 days I would meet the love of my life.
I know I will be an emotional wreck on some milestone dates that are coming up. I will be posting the ever famous referral photo, our first meeting, and some other photos from the orphanage - so check back often!
Also, today is my parents 40th anniversary - so Happy Anniversary to you both.
Pretty in lime green! Going out on the town with mommy.
I worked very hard to get out a Christmas letter this year - and my printer has messed up. I put in new ink, re-adjusted alignment, etc - but nothing worked. So, I just decided to print my Christmas message on my blog. My Christmas card with Zoey's picture on it read "Home for the Holidays" - and the card had the following verse:
Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! II Corinthians 9:15
Home for the Holidays – the card says it all. As you know – I have had a BIG year. On December 25, 2006 – Zoey and I will have been home 9 months. It seems like she has been here forever. A little bit about the last 2.5 years.
On May 22, 2004 I contacted a potential adoption facilitator in Florida for information on adopting in Ukraine. (this was after months of research and deliberation about whether to even adopt as I was single) At the time, I am not sure why I felt compelled to adopt from Ukraine, but 2 years later I know why. I looked into the US, China, and Russia. I just kept going back to Ukraine. Fast forward seven months (and loads of paperwork later) my dossier was complete: the date – December 27, 2004. (all paperwork was stamped with that date then sent to Ukraine). Fast forward (another term for endless waiting) and I was registered and received an appointment date on May 13, 2005: the appointment date – December 27, 2005.
Fast forward to December 23 – and my mother and I left for Ukraine. We arrived on Christmas Eve and spent Christmas Day with an Orphanage in Kiev that I work with. It was a great way to spend the day. December 26 – I got the call – the adoption center was shutting down. I went in on the 27th and met with the director and signed an affidavit that I would wait in Ukraine until the new administration took place on January 10, 2005. HA! I will save you the details…
December 27 – February 1 – lots of endless waiting (but we met some incredible people who we now call family)
February 2 – I had an appointment – and was given a referral for Zoey (she was the only child they would let me have)
February 6 – I met Zoey. To this day – I can shut my eyes and see her coming up the stairs where we waited – I knew it was her by her eyes. The most angelic creature God had ever created. I was in tears, mom was in tears, my translator was in tears. It was
truly a moment I will never forget.
March 9 – Zoey legally became my daughter.
March 25 – We landed at DFW – home at last.
May 22 - Zoey turned 2. (this is the same day I started my adoption)
I spent 93 days in Ukraine. Of those days – approx. 50% were below zero; 80% had snow on the ground; 95% there was no sun. It was a bitter-sweet process. One that I would do again in a heartbeat.
Today – Zoey is thriving. When I met her – she did not talk. She was under-nourished. She was quite and reserved. Now, she is a typical 2 year-old. Since we have been home – she has grown 5.5 inches and put on 5 pounds. She talks non-stop. She sings non-stop. She is loving, compassionate, humorous, intelligent, strong-willed and more than I ever could have hoped for. Not that all days are rosy, we are both still learning – but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
When I look back on the last 2.5 years – I see God’s hand in this whole process. He knew where I needed to be. Everything worked out so perfectly – though at the time I could not see that. If I had my original appointment on the 27th – I never would have gotten Zoey – she did not become available until Dec.31 – then was off the registry on January 16. If the director did not force me to take Zoey’s referral – I might have chosen another child. I almost did not go to the region where Zoey was because I just knew this was not my child. But because of my mother’s encouragement, along with my new friends, I went to meet her. My life will never be same.
I’d like to take this time to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful new year! May your lives be as blessed as ours! I will post photos as soon as I figure out how to do it under the new blogger.
Love, Jennifer and Zoey
In early October my friend Stacey from Atlanta come to visit with her daughter Emily. I went with Stacey to Ukraine last September to pick up Emily after a 30 day wait. Have you seen cuter kids anywhere else?
Mother asked that I set the record straight and let you all know that there is 2 sides to every story. Her side is "she has a life and a home with my daddy and that comes first". (my brother is a close 2nd (my words not hers)) She has graciously offered to come stay the day on Saturday and let me get my puppy to the vet and "rest" - and I accepted. She has also said she would take Zoey to her house ---- but those of you who have adopted know you just can't do that. Zoey can't handle change right now. She needs to be secure and this is where she is secure. She can't handle the separation of me or of our house. She feels most secure here and in her bed at night. When she comes back from their house, she is a terror. She screams, cries, has nightmares, won't eat, is CLINGY. She won't sleep at night. She rocks and hums. It breaks my heart to see her do this. I can't knowingly allow this when I know her reactions. So, I am trying to keep her where she is secure until she understands she is "not going back" or not going to have another change. So, whether people agree or not, I will not be as selfish to let her go away knowing the consequences.
On another note - Zoey has other issues from being institutionalized. One is not knowing how to be comforted. She can't be held or rocked. I have tried to grip her tightly to force it --- it just doesn't happen. She was never rocked or held, so she doesn't know how to be rocked or held. I try to spend 5 minutes each night before bed holding her and rocking her. She fights it though. Even when sickly and crying - she will let me hold her upright, but if I try to rock - she is having no part of it. Short of restraining - I don't know what else to do. This is her biggest challenge. Mine too - as I get frustrated with trying to keep her still or settling her down. All other areas - she seems to have adjusted fine. She is chatty cathy these days. Finally gaining weight and growing again. And, has the cutest and sweetest voice. Angel on earth.
Ukraine is moving again and people are finally getting to complete adoptions. I just hope and pray my friends in waiting are as fortunate as me! And, good luck to those about to leave for Urkaine - Christina, Amy and Kelly! I can't wait for you to get your babies and get home!
Good night to all!
October 25 – 7 Months Home
I can’t count anymore. I keep telling people we have been home 8 months – but it is really only 7. But, they have been the most interesting, yet best 7 months of my life. (Minus the combined 12 weeks I had an ear infection and strep throat. And, still managed to care for a toddler.)
November 1 – Still sick and caring for the princess
Well, I went to doctor yesterday and they ran all kinds of test to try and determine what is wrong with me and why I keep getting ear infections, strep throat, bronchial infections, coughing fits and I will spare you with the other diagnoses. I can’t believe I have not been able to shake this. I am on steroids now, along with the strongest dosage and kind of antibiotic available on the market. I think they are giving me a headache – but I will digress if they work. I am so sick of being sick. But, throughout all of this – Zoey hasn’t had anything. I guess a small miracle.
On to the reason you are all here --- I know it isn’t about me anymore. Last night was Halloween and Zoey had so much fun. It was so funny to watch her. I gave her a candy in her pail before we left the house. So, when we got to the first house all hell broke loose when the lady went down to put candies in the pail. Zoey thought she was trying to take her candy – and started yelling “mine!” – “my candies” – I tried to explain the lady was adding candy. She finally let us put the candy in there – and off we went. At the next house – she was a little hesitant. But by the time we hit the third house – she had that pail out front and center. Then, if she didn’t think she got enough – she would grab more. It was very funny to watch. Also, her pail got too heavy for her – but she would not let me or grandma have the pail.
November 5, 2006 – OY! It just keeps getting better around here. Well, I found out I have whooping cough and they also want to check my lungs for “suspicious cultures” as the doctor called it. i.e. – TB. Thank you, Ukraine. Well, I wrote on my blog while in UA that when I went to that hospital – I was sure to leave with more than I arrived with.
To make matters worse – I have medication I need to take – but can’t take it because it makes me heavily drowsy and sleep a lot (which the doctor said I needed). But, since my mother can’t leave my daddy (even though he is hunting and camping) – I have no one to come help with Zoey – hence I can’t get better. It really sucks. I miss my nanny. She was a God-send. I miss her so much. I wish for once in her life my mother would help me when I needed it. (I know you all are thinking she did with the 3 months in UA ---- but that was her choice to go.) Anyway – to other single women thinking of adopting – make sure you have a network ready and available when you need it. My back-up plan was family – but I find out when it is really needed – no one has time or can’t be put out.
Back to Zoey – off my soapbox. She cracks me up. I have been teaching her to say “please” when she wants something. She is now able to tell me when she wants more of something. She starts screaming “I want more!” repeatedly. Today – I asked her to give me a flashlight I was hunting down. She kept telling me “NO!” – and the chase was on. Finally she stopped – turned around and said “say please”. I cracked up. I guess it is a 2-way street now. Her other favorite saying is “I don’t want it” – that is to up to anything including a nap. Which today – she got out of because I was too coughy to deal with. But, she got an earlier bedtime! WooHoo. I was able to get 3 more loads of clothes done. Oh – I forgot to mention. She has kind of a little accent – so her voice is so cute and she enunciates words so succinctly - it is so funny.
I took Zoey to doctor last week. Hallelujah, thank God. She is in the 5th percentile (previously has not even made the chart). She weighed 23lbs and was 33.5 inches tall. And, size 18 months are too short for her – so we graduated to a 24 month --- but pin the waist. Overall – she is healthy. But, she has had a nagging cough for time – and today while she was coughing – I prayed that she does not have what I have. It is harder on a child.
Zoey continues to do well at school. I think that is where she is really picking up the vocabulary skills. Some of which I wish she wasn’t learning. She has also taken to being mean to the puppy. Which I keep on top of her about that. I don’t know why – but she feels the need to ride him, sit on top of him or pull his ears. I spanked her today for it as time out was not working – and she kept doing it. Poor dog. I would show her to love the puppy – which she would do ----- then when I turned my back – she’d be on top of him – smiling away.
Also – I am highly annoyed that she calls me Jenny or Jennifer. Since everyone calls me that – and no one to call me mommy (but me). She tells me “bye-bye Jenny” at school. When I pick her up “Jenny – where you be at?” “Jenny – where go?” It cracks me up – but annoys me at the same time. It doesn’t help a lady at the school that teaches her is named Jenny – so its fresh on her mind. Funny – when she cries or wants something --- it is mommy.
November 7, 2006 – Fast forward a few days. Zoey is full-blown sick. Tonight she was driving me absolutely crazy. She cried, screamed, hit, was clingy. I just fed her – bathed her and put her to bed. Crazy times! My antibiotic is finally kicking in --- but I still am tired.
I guess this has been a whining log. Next month – I will give the 411 on Zoey that I was going to do this month --- but I just need to get better. With that – I will update in a few weeks.
