Henry and Watermelon

Preschool Graduation

This year of preschool hasn't been an easy one. Rubie hated going to school - came up with every excuse one can think of not to go (one day, her eyes hurt - she said she couldn't see well). I went to the director and had her changed to a different classroom. Those amazing teachers turned her back into the girl who LOVES school! That's the power of a positive environment.

For her graduation gift, I gave Rubie a Tiffany necklace that Ramon had given me a few years ago. Rubie has always liked it, and I always tell her that one day I will give it to her. Let's hope she is ready.


Ms. Kari and Ms. Beckie...

Hawaii - 2011

May Birthday Celebration at Dad's House

Testing For Orange Belts

Rubie and Leilani tested for their orange belts tonight...

Mother's Day 2011

There were many days that I wondered if I would ever celebrate Mother's Day as a mother. Now I can't believe how lucky I am, that I get to be her mother. It's not always easy. I almost always question my parenting decisions - wonder if I am ruining her. But, I wouldn't change her in any way, even if I could...

Adoption Day, 2011

This year, for adoption day, we went to Disneyland - surprise! Every year we ask Rubie, and every year, she picks "Disleyland." I really have no idea why she chooses Disneyland, because every time we go there, she has a miserable time. I think she builds it up too much, and she is overstimulated. She was grouchy and grumpy for the majority of the day - though I just asked her if she had fun, and she said she did. oh well.

Here is one of the first pictures. um....forced smile?

The Flowers came with us to celebrate...





We love you, baby girl - adoption day, and every day. (even when you are grumpy)...