Go Light Your World by Kelsey Frederick (my niece) with Jay-R

The Past Few Months in Photo Review

Jay-R playing goalie...plays just like big sis...no fear!

Dad & Jay-R at the zoo in South Bend, Indiana over Labor Day Weekend

Ashleigh volunteering as Junior Historian at Sauder Historic Village

Hanging out at Sauder Village during a warm October day...this is when he was still a Michigan Fan. He's since converted to Ohio State!

His latest Lego creation....a Lego House

Taxi on a Pickle

That's how my life has been as described by my seven, oops..eight year old. He says to me one night, "Mom, you're like a taxi on a pickle." And, that's how I feel some days. Running here, there, and everywhere playing soccer mom caravan. And most recently, nurse to a hubby who had knee surgery. Throw in a couple parties to celebrate Jay-R's eighth birthday and yes, I am like a taxi on a pickle. (I guess because a pickle is round and rolls...not quite sure the pickle part, but hey, it works!)

I promise I am back. No more long delays between postings. I will post pictures soon of the birthday boy.

I am learning to not sweat the small stuff, take one day at a time, and breathe! My remedy for stress relief-running, writing, quiet time, laughing, and silliness with my kids. What relieves your stress in this crazy world?

So sweet...

He makes me smile...
Just minutes ago, he says,
"I'm thankful you adopted me, and I have a family."
Melts my heart....
He's really been talking about being adopted lately, asking questions, and accepting of how he came to the family. We love our little guy...wait, I stand corrected by Jay-R-"big guy."
Always making us smile!

Another First...the Ocean!

Jay-R loved, loved, loved the ocean on our recent trip to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Even my jellyfish sting on Day 2 did not deter him from jumping in and splashing around. It's so much fun experiencing things for the first time again through the eyes of a child.

Camp Mabuhay 2011

We had a great time at the 2011 Camp Mabuhay in Kokomo, Indiana. It is such a wonderful experience for both the children and adults. This was our 3rd year, and it feels like a big family reunion. We encourage you to consider coming. It is worth the drive. The 2012 event will be held on Saturday, June 9. Typically, it starts around 9 and lasts until about 4. There is a Filipino song and language session, a walking museum, a Sari Sari store, dance lesson, cooking demonstration, games, craft, and of course great Filipino food made by wonderful Filipino folks. The theme was "Wow Bohol!" Here are some pictures from the day. Filipino Pabitin (like a pinata only the kids jump to try and grab a bag while the pabitin is lowered and raised). The older kids had to play on their knees!

Leigh-Anne, our exchange student, doing the Tinikling dance

Jay-R eager to spend his pesos at the Sari Sari store.

The best part...the Filipino food! There were different kinds of pancit, lumpia, menundo, rice (of course!), chicken adobo, fresh fruits, and cake. Halo Halo was served later.

Dancing a an American favorite-The YMCA!

Jay-R showing off his "pesos" to spend at the Sari Sari Store.

Ashleigh & Leigh-Anne displaying their project for the Walking Museum-the History of Bohol.

The Traditional camp Birthday cake

Our 2011 Camp Mabuhay family photo minus Dad who had to work.

Jay-R doing the Tinikling dance.

Recent Life Happenings in Pictures

Jay-R received his orange belt at karate.

Jay-R after his first 1K race at the Toledo Zoo. He did awesome!!!

Before the Dart Frog Dash at the Toledo Zoo-me, Jay-R, and my cousin's husband Chris.

Mother's Day with my kiddos.

Ashleigh practicing her piano recital piece.