¡Feliz Navidad!

The anticipation for Christmas morning began at 11 p.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal. The candlelight service was beautiful - scripture readings, carols, and communion. After the service, we helped ourselves to egg nog, hot apple cider, and cookies in the fellowship hall.  We headed home and the kids hit the beds.  Once they were tucked in, Dave left to go to our storage unit to retrieve the bicycles for the kids from Abuela Marilyn and Abuelo Mike.  We placed cookies and milk out for Santa, wrapped a few more surprises, and headed to bed around 2 a.m.  The morning came early with Lizet entering our room around 6:50 whispering that Santa had indeed visited.  He even ate the cookies!  

Presents included:  American Girl dolls (Josefina) from cousins Kim, David, Catherine, and Gabriella;  a Razor scooter;  Play Station games;  digital cameras;  engraved NIV English/Spanish Bibles;  clothes;  makeup;  watches;  DVDs and CDs.  Stockings were an additional treat filled with many types of candy.  After cleaning up, we watched a few of the new movies and shared a Christmas lunch of ham, scalloped potatoes, and green beans.  

Our evening was traveling to Kansas to spend time with Dave's grandparents.  We had a good time with them and additional family, dropping in at various times.  

We asked our children what their friends at the orphanages would like for Christmas and they told us a movie and dinner at a restaurant.  This was something they always thought was fun. Our little family decided to send some money to the two orphanages in Peru so this would become a reality.  We heard from our missionary friends, Sandy and Gloria, that the children were elated and even had a little over a hundred soles leftover.  They were able to enjoy the new Narnia movie and a roasted chicken dinner at a local restaurant.  

   

"Christmas Came Early"

I have a very special person in my life… Aunt Cathy.  We have always been especially close and she is extremely dear to me.  She writes an annual Christmas poem, but this year's is very personal and you will see why...

"Christmas Came Early"

Christmas came early!  Did you know it?  Did you hear?

A gift of three children whose sweet hearts we hold dear.

Emily, my niece and her husband, Dave

Began a journey and of their hearts they gave.

With months of praying, planning, and such;

Many forms, meetings, legalities...so much!

They persevered and by August all was complete;

Xavier, Angela, and Lizet at last they would greet!

So, off to Peru for a month they stayed;

The vision of God's plan at last was displayed.

A family was formed, an extended family grew,

All through God's guidance to an orphanage in Peru.

Xavier, the protective brother, so much kindness in his heart;

A soccer player, a friend, and a talent for art!

Angela, the eldest sister, with a quiet, kind smile;

Loves time spent with Mamí to chat for a while.

Lizet, the youngest, is becoming a chef;

She is clever and fearless;  her next plan is anyone's guess!

These precious children God placed in our lives;

Have given us more than they realize.

A reminder of blessings through God's special plan

When He gave His son in the form of a man.

These children we will cherish, protect, and love;

The example is given from our Father above.

Yes, Christmas came early and the love is overflowing;

Three children, three hearts, God's gifts are ongoing.

¡Feliz Cumpleaños a Mi!

The morning of my 40th began as a usual school morning, except Lizet had me open my gift from her, then put it back in the bag nestled in tissue paper, and asked that I act surprised in front of the others later.  I did just that!  We had my birthday dinner at La Fiesta, presents at home, and then cake and ice cream.

Xavier gave me a pair of light pink Dearfoam knitted slippers;  from Angela, a satin red blouse with faux pearls and gold chains, and Lizet presented me (again) with a gift of bath supplies. Ice cream and cake (and lots of laughter) followed.  From Dave, I received a book by Beth Moore and a Southern Living Christmas cookbook.  A fun day!

Since the kids have been so generous buying Christmas gifts for others by using their allowance, Lizet asked if she could do some things around the house to earn extra money.  She was told she could earn $5 for cleaning their bathroom. She did.  On Sunday, Dave and I were pleased to see her put $1 in the offering plate.  

Lizet wanted to have a matrimonio ceremony for her and Fletcher. Yes, she wanted to marry our dog.  She even put on a dress, and Angela placed a watch around Fletcher's collar, resembling a bow tie.  Oh boy - the excitement never ends!  I tell you this story so you will understand the next one...

As I was dropping off Lizet on her last day of school before Christmas break, she decided she wanted me to help her carry in the bags of her teacher's presents.  So, here I was juggling presents, my purse, locking car doors, and hoping Fletcher wouldn't jump out of the car... Sure enough - he jumped out, running into the school, and she yells, "My husband!  My husband!"  Now, doesn't it make sense why I told you the first story?      

        

Pop Rocks and PEZ

Children make Christmas so much more enjoyable...  We have had so much fun!  I think our tree looks better than it has in years past.  Maybe it's the white lights, perhaps the tinsel, or possibly the ornaments... No, it has to be the way the children decorated it - with their hands, in their own way.  And the angel tops it beautifully.

They have saved their allowance, accumulating anywhere from eighty to one hundred dollars and have enjoyed spending it on their family members. Lizet even made the comment, "I've never had money to spend on other persons.  I love Merry Christmas!"  They are so looking forward to Papa Noel, or Santa Claus visiting us.  Lizet has been hesitant in believing, but now that she's actually sat on Santa's lap at the mall, she's convinced he's alive and well, and busy.  

Dave bought the kids some candy the other day:  Pop rocks and PEZ.  It was so fun watching their reactions to candy popping in their mouths.  They were a little freaked, but in a good way! And now, the girls are interested in collecting PEZ dispensers.

Lizet loves Picante sauce on anything and everything.

Lizet told me I am going to make a wonderful grandmother.

Lizet finally gets sarcasm, and is using it.  Last night we were making tacos and she was emptying cheese in a bowl.  Xavier walks in and says, "¿Queso?"  Lizet stops and says, "No, Xavier, guacamole."  That's our girl.  And we haven't even introduced her to Seinfeld, yet.

I taught Angela how to do the splits tonight.  Yes, I'm afraid I can still do them.  I taught her some exercises that stretch the thigh muscles and she was very interested in perfecting this particular skill.  So she tried again, and what do you know!?  She literally jumped in my arms with joy! 

Something that completely made my year:  The other day, I was cleaning the kitchen and I turned to find Lizet leaning her head against the wall next to the dishwasher just staring at me, adoringly.  I said, "¿Qué cariño?" And she says in perfect English, "I'm very happy you are my mother."  She followed it with many kisses all over my face and mouth and strong hugs.  Yep, I've arrived.  

  

     

Our First Thanksgiving

My parents and brother arrived safely, and with additional food in tow. Mama made her sweet potato casserole, stained-glass salad, and marinated vegetable salad, along with a pumpkin cake.  I was thrilled they were able to spend Thanksgiving with us!  After seeing their rooms, watching a bit of Robin Hood:  Men in Tights (Lizet's favorite), and waiting for Dave to come home from work, we visited about random things; Daddy's work, Eric's work, and Mama constantly working at home.  Xavier was eager to show off his skateboarding abilities while Lizet roller skated.  Once Dave arrived, we left for La Fiesta where Daddy treated all of us.  Lizet was able to introduce them to all her new friends (waiters and hostess).  After returning home, the kids quickly gathered their things to go for a sleepover with Grammy, Gramps, Tío Eric, and Tony (their Maltipoo), at their hotel.  The girls slept with Grammy and Tony, while the men were in the adjoining room. I hope Xavi wasn't too upset that he had already taken a bath that day.  No chance to try out his snorkel equipment in a hotel bathtub.  

Thanksgiving Day for the children included an introduction to the Macy's Day Parade, the National Dog Show, and the Dallas Cowboys. We had Lizet cheering in the end, although she was rooting for the wrong team...  No honey, those are the Saints.  The kids loved everything!  Thankfully, they're not picky eaters.  I made my grandfather's dressing which is basically a list of ingredients and is more of a go-by-what-it-looks-like kind of recipe, green bean casserole, green chile corn, and Dave made the turkey and rolls.  And of course I had to add the canned, jellied cranberry sauce - my favorite! We had pumpkin pie, pumpkin cake, and pecan pie with an assortment of sodas and iced tea.  We played Chicken Foot (a domino game) and the kids loved it!  They kept saying, "This is fun!"  After all ten rounds, Angela came out the winner!  Fortunately, none of us needed a nap, so we watched football.  Xavi played video games on his Play Station, Angela watched a movie in her room on a portable DVD player, but Lizet laid on Grammy for about two hours.

They want to go say one last "adios" in the morning before my family departs from the hotel, so off we go in the morning.  Then, we will meet Dad for lunch at Mazzio's.  Lizet is planning to go to work with Dad for a little while.  She even tried on his dress shoes and asked if she could wear them tomorrow.  Dave laughed and said, "Oh, Sweetie, yours are so much prettier."  Her reply, "But, these are work shoes."             

The Great Outdoors

All three kids are enjoying our beautiful weather!  Angela is content walking Fletcher, while Xavier is enjoying his skateboard (with helmet) and Lizet is skating to her heart's content (with helmet AND knee pads).

Xavier LOVES watching Tom and Jerry!  He makes me laugh after Tom gets his tail blown off, or gets trapped in a sardine can, yelling out “Impossible!”

Angela did a wonderful job on her "food day" in her language class by bringing some foods from Germany.  She and her dad made Apfelstrudel and Lebküchen.  They were delicious, made a lot, and her teacher was pleased.  Angela didn't want to take the cookies, though... She really liked them.  But, since they DID make 109, we insisted she take most of them!

Lizet's P.E. teacher informed me that she is the best archer in class. Hmmm... It must be all those days of watching and re-watching Robin Hood:  Men in Tights.  This has become one of her favorite movies. Thanks so much, Mel Brooks.  She even dances along with them!

The other night, all three asked if I would come read the Bible with them.  They love the book of Revelation.  We read a little and they started asking questions about who goes to Heaven.  I told them the only way to get to Heaven is to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.

After making egg tortillas for their breakfast the other morning, Lizet wrapped her arms around my waist and said in Spanglish:  "You are la mejor madre en el universo, mi favorita madre, I love you."  I guess she really liked her breakfast! 

Saturday night we had dinner at La Fiesta.  A song was playing they all recognized, but they didn't know the name.  Leave it to Lizet to call a waiter over to ask... He told her and they began a conversation.  The next thing we know, we're surrounded by four other waiters being entertained by Lizet!  I don't think we'll worry about her getting dates... Well, actually, we will.  When we were leaving, Lizet informed the waitress that she loves Mexican food so much that we are coming back in January for her birthday lunch and then to Señor Salsa for her birthday dinner. She laughed and said, "Wow!  Competition!"  

  

A Spooktacular Weekend

Carving jack-o-lanterns began the festivities for the week.  The kids drew the faces while Dave and I carved, filling each with a candle.  We saved the pumpkin seeds, which Dave cleaned and roasted.  Lizet kept muttering, "This smells no good."  No, it doesn't.

Xavier drew monsters all week.  He is ridiculously good!

Last night's Trunk or Treat at the Church of Christ was fun!  Lizet was Wonder Woman, Xavi was a green alien, and Angela who wasn't keen on dressing up, went from car to car gathering all kinds of goodies.  

After returning home, they changed and we went to Buffalo Wild Wings for dinner. While many were glued to the giant screens watching the Rangers, several were viewing football.  Fans were whooping and hollering at the screen.  Lizet leans in and asks, "¿Personas especial?"  Dave says, "No, just OU fans."  

Lizet immediately took inventory of all her candy with paper and pen. She sorted out all the colors and types.  She counted 80, ate two, and said there should be 78 tomorrow.  

We blew up the air mattress for our night of scary movies and had popcorn, a few pieces of candy, and lots of cuddles.

Angela has been practicing her magic on me by making my money disappear and retracting it from my ear or back pockets.  She credits Padre Ron with this skill.  

    

Pumpkin Patch

Dave and I met one another for Lizet's parent-teacher conference on Thursday.  We received a good report about Lizet and feel confident about all the kids' experiences in school, even though I occasionally do have to raid Xavi's locker for missing homework.  I never wanted to be one of those moms, but here I live and breathe. 

I have also now experienced using this phrase... "Sweetie, did you cut your bangs?"    

The other day Angela was playing the piano and turned around to me and said, "¿Bien?"  I said, "¡Muy bien!"  She smiled from ear to ear.

Since there was no school on Friday for the girls (K-6 conferences), I took them to lunch at Señor Salsa.  Lizet repeatedly raised her hand if she needed more lemonade;  or in one instance, change for her dollar.  (She had eyed the toy dispensers upon entering.)  But then this happened: She asked to go to the restroom.  She was gone a while.  Angela says to me, "Mira, Mamí."  I turn to see Lizet in the kitchen talking with the cooks.  She returned happily saying she got to stir a pot of beans.  After picking up Xavi from school, we went to Braum's for a chocolate-vanilla swirl waffle cone.  I didn't want him to be left out of anything fun!

We celebrated Dave's birthday last Sunday.  After church we had lunch at Tumbleweeds.  The kids loved it!  They all had big lunches requiring boxes.  Lizet asked for hers by saying:  "Please, I need a box, b-o-x," to the waitress.

Xavi was able to cook with his friend, Parker.  Their assignment was to make something from a Spanish-speaking country;  they chose an almond-rice drink.  They made a 100.  

This afternoon, Dave took Angela to Tulsa to select frames for her glasses since seeing the optometrist.  Dave bought her two frames;  pink and blue.  She loves to coordinate.  Then they had Chick-fil-A.

Tonight we had dinner with Dave's colleagues from the bank at Shay's Pumpkin Patch. None of the kids were too thrilled about it, but by the end loved it!  We had hamburgers and hot dogs, with Dink's catering the potato salad and baked beans.  There were also Halloween cupcakes and candies and a variety of drinks.  They played on play equipment, played football, soccer, and jumped in the giant pumpkin bounce house.  Then we took a ride on bales of hay on a tractor bed and drove out to the pumpkin patch to select our pumpkins. Lizet also added pine cones to our October motif.  After paying (with our Arvest discount) for our pumpkins, we drove to Wal-Mart to pick up Lizet's order:  pink roller skates.  We also chose a few comedies from the $5 bin.  We soon discovered after arriving home, Lizet needs a helmet and knee pads.  

They enjoy getting mail.  Tía Cathy and Tío Marty sent them gift cards to Braum's and Halloween t-shirts.  

The girls also have become fans of Mel Brooks.  They love Robin Hood: Men in Tights!  Their favorite scenes are:  a man falling in a shallow moat and screaming that he can't swim;  a man slinging his swords into his pockets causing his pants to fall down;  and an ugly woman praying for a man to come into her life while a knight falls through the ceiling.  

Now we're watching Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.       

Piercings

I now have two daughters with pierced ears!  Angela pierced one of her ears by herself.  I guess this was a sign we should get this done professionally, so we headed to Claire's. She so desperately wanted to wear some earrings one of her great-grandmothers gave her.  We are now caring for their ears, three times a day, for six weeks.  

Lizet also now has a Hannah Montana reversible comforter.  It's quite cute!  She is such a fan. She says Hannah fine, but adds Montaña (for Montana).  

One cute activity that took place at Xavier and Angela's middle school on Thursday:  The new students were invited to a social in the library during their lunch.  This was a time to meet other new students, teachers, and have refreshments.  There were about nine or ten in attendance, according to Angela.  Well, there was a drawing for a Bruins letter jacket.  (Yes, I'm aware it looks like Ruins.)  Not a leather one, but one that is made from the baseball uniform material. Still durable and very nice.  Well, lo and behold, my girl, Angela WON!  She really needed that since I had to encourage her to go and be "social".  She is still a little timid.  Xavier was so proud of her!

Friday was Xavier's appointment for a haircut with Papí.  After I picked up my middle-schoolers, I drove them to Dave’s office.  We chatted with some ladies in the office and then Angela and I left to head to Braum's for a chocolate-vanilla swirl waffle cone.  I told her it was our secret and we don't want to hurt feelings.  So, as we ate our cones in line at Lizet's school, we chatted and laughed about other things at school that day.  As Angela finished, she gathered up the "evidence."  She threw the napkins in my console after wiping her face and checking mine.  I also suggested to Angela that we pretend we forgot Xavier at school, if Lizet asked. Sure enough, Lizet did just that!  "Where's Xavier?"  Angela grabbed my arm and said, "¡Mamí...  Xavier!"  You should have seen Lizet's eyes!  "¿Qué?" was Lizet's response.  It was more of a drawn out qué... Like KAYYYY? Anyway, she got a big laugh out of our little joke. In no time, I turned around to go pick up Xavier with his darling haircut.  

Every time we see a bright yellow car, the kids call out “plátano” (banana).  

Lizet's English is improving every day.  She says certain phrases a lot.  “You okay?”  “I like peepsa.”  (That's how she pronounces pizza.)  Well actually, they all do.          

 

Milestones

Tonight Lizet lost a tooth!  She walked through the house to our room with her flashlight in hand, accompanied by Xavier - her partner in crime - to show the gap in the back of her mouth, and the tooth secured in tissue.  Dave had her rinse her mouth out with saltwater and she will now await a visit from the Tooth Fairy. She's quite excited and couldn't wait to hug me.  How exciting!  She's been working on that tooth all week.

I also found out, through Angela, Xavier has a girlfriend.  I asked him about her and he grinned, grinned, grinned.  He won't say much, but last night he did ask me to write out "I love you" on a piece of paper.  He did tell me tonight that she looks like me.  Same skin and same color hair.  I think I'm flattered.  

They had a great week!  Although, it was accompanied by mood swings, hormone changes, and manic phases.  Welcome to adolescence!      

  

Nothing Like A Child's Love

Xavier thinks we should invest in buying Fletcher a chef's hat.  I don't know why... He won't be cooking.

For a snack the other day, Lizet asked if I'd make her a hard-boiled egg. I thought about it... You know, the kids love hard-boiled eggs, and mayonnaise, and mustard.  So, I made deviled eggs. You'd think I'd discovered plutonium.  Lizet said - THANK YOU, followed by a VERY GOOD - stressing the double-Os.  She pronounces all double-O words the way Scooby-Doo is emphasized. Xavier was next - MUY BIEN, he tells me. Then, I guess Angela loved it since she shoved the other half in her mouth before finishing the first.  I'll turn them into Southerners, yet! They loved my meatloaf tonight, too.  I even got Angela to eat green beans;  of course, I guess it helps when you mix them up in your mashed potatoes. Whatever works!  I also went to Braum's today to purchase chocolate milk.  I figure that's better than soft drinks and they need the protein and calcium.

Xavier loves giving me kisses.  For a 13-year-old boy, that's a miracle!

Lizet loves to hum.  

Xavier and Angela are having their own private yo-yo competitions after school, in the kitchen.

Lizet loves me to help her with bath time.  She loves me to pour water over her head, dry her off, and comb her hair.  Tonight she wanted me to dress her, too.  She put her arms around my waist as I helped her with her gown.  Then I read (in Spanish) Mrs. Nelson is Missing from her school library, to both her and Xavier.

Lizet held me so tight, continuously saying, “Madre, Mamá, Mamita... I love you.”  She's excited about our "secret time" tomorrow.  We're going out to eat and then shopping for "cosmetics".  Sounds like we'll be hitting the Dollar Tree for lip gloss.  We're both very excited!      

And they love to pinkie swear.

    

     

Wishes and Spirits

When Dave told the children that he would be buying their mamí a new car in the next year... Probably an SUV, Lizet suggested it be pink.

Tonight, while helping Lizet organize her closet, she discussed with me something personal:

After asking if she could tell me something, she proceeded with the fact that last night she saw her mother come in and touch her face.  I told her that was natural and that she shouldn't feel afraid.  She had mentioned there were ghosts, or "fantasmas" in her room earlier in the week.  I actually reassured her by telling her a story from several months ago...  When your papí and I decided to adopt you, Angela, and Xavier, I told Papí that I felt a presence of your padres with us.  It was as if they were angels guiding us along the way to get you and let you into our hearts and home.  I still feel a connection to your mother every time I look in your eyes.  This information was surprising to Lizet, but quite bonding for the two of us at a difficult time in a 10-year-old girl's life.  She looked away, quietly for a moment, then wiped her eyes quickly, turned to me and said, "I love you, Mamí.”  I told her I loved her, too.  Then, she said in perfect English, "Okay, come on, let's go."  So, we continued to organize.

Xavier would still love a Rottweiler... and we still say no.  

Angela is such a good sister and daughter.  She is rapidly becoming a Daddy's Girl.  

  

Helpers

Tonight as I was preparing a chef salad, Lizet came in and without saying a word, washed her hands at the sink beside me and began helping.  She put her hand on mine as I chopped a head of lettuce, then she washed, peeled, and chopped the cucumber (with a much smaller and duller knife).  We diced tomatoes, cleaned and cut mushrooms, and put everything in separate bowls so each person could add what they wanted. I boiled a few eggs earlier, so she peeled those and sliced them for the salad.  We added chopped turkey, shredded cheese, and bacon bits to the table.  Along with a variety of dressings, we included crackers and toasted French bread.  They enjoyed their salad so much they forgot we had leftover chicken soup heating on the stove.  Lizet also set the table and Xavier helped clean. Angela did her part by sweeping.  Lizet finished by starting the dishwasher.

The activities of choice for the evening:  Xavier enjoyed an hour of Play Station.  Angela wanted to do Rosetta Stone, and Lizet chose Phineas and Ferb cartoons.  

We called my grandmother Mimi, (their "bisabuela") to wish her a happy 90th and as Lizet was talking with her, she ran to her room to get her Hello Kitty doll that has the "Happy Birthday" song programmed into it.  She told my grandmother... "Listen…" and played the song.  Mimi was so happy! She loved it!!  

Tonight is late night!  After their favorite show, they know they need to clean their rooms so they won't have so much to do tomorrow.  

  

Comfort Zones

Lizet voluntarily helped clean the kitchen tonight.  She called "Ma" when she was ready to learn how to start the dishwasher.

Angela has two new favorite stores:  American Eagle and Gap.

Xavier has the capabilities of someday becoming an architect due to his strong math, science, and illustrative skills, but enjoys the idea of being a massage therapist for dogs a little more.

Lizet put on her kitchen gloves and grabbed her "cell phone'' since Fletcher had a veterinary "emergencia" - not really, hence the quotes, but she massaged his stomach and kept calling him "Señor Fletcher".  Xavier was her assistant.

Both girls take Fletcher out to potty at night and turn their backs so he can have privacy.  

Xavier is already looking forward to October.  He wants to buy a troll for his room, as they bring "buena suerte" - good luck.  He would also like a skeleton with angel's wings.  

    

Simple Pleasures

The Roof Dog run was great!  It was a great day of fellowship with friends and church family. Xavier and I participated in the mile walk, along with one of my best friends in the whole world - Annie!  She's even sponsoring one of the kids at the casas...  Angela's best friend.  

My parents gave the kids each a harmonica since they demonstrated an interest by playing my dad's when last visiting Texas.  I think Daddy would be impressed to learn that Lizet has learned to play it using her nose.

Lizet has been singing "Viva, Las Vegas" a lot.  I'm not too concerned since she won't be going until she's at least 21, and I won’t exactly be encouraging at that point.  

Lizet also loves to sing hymns to Fletcher, not to mention dress him every morning.

How many times do we need to tell the children we can't afford horses? Just wondering...

The children would love for Fletcher and Stormy (Stormy is my in-laws' Cocker Spaniel) to get married!

Dave took Xavier and Lizet to a traveling circus in town last week.  They were a bit disappointed to find out the only animal was a miniature horse.  

There's nothing like sitting in church and having a child spontaneously kiss you.  If you guessed Angela, you'd be right!

  

  

 

Pudding in a Cloud

You'd think I'd just graduated from a culinary institute with all the accolades I received from my kiddos regarding my... drumroll, please... Pudding in a Cloud.  Okay, Cool-Whip, check!  Instant chocolate pudding, check!  Milk, check!  I even caught Angela stuffing mouthfuls of my creation in her mouth throughout the evening.  Glad she didn’t catch me doing the same!  

It's not just pudding, though.  Apparently, my hamburgers were a hit - considering Xavier had three!  Yeah, I said it.  Ground beef, steak sauce, and plain bread crumbs - that's it!  Dave cooked them on the grill when he got home and voilà - hamburgers.  Lizet helped set the table, including all the necessary condiments.  Angela helped clear.  And the pudding countdown began.

The kids have had a wonderful day!  I think they're understanding their new American schedule and rules within the family structure.  One funny tidbit the children shared with me yesterday was this:  In Peru, the mother is the one who screams.  I thought that was funny.  Especially, considering the majority of the time, it's just Papí raising his voice to get their attention.  

Almighty God, heavenly Father, you have blessed us with the joy and care of children:  Give us calm strength and patient wisdom as we bring them up, that we may teach them to love whatever is just and true and good, following the example of our Savior Jesus Christ.  Amen.  

                                                                                                                        -The Book of Common Prayer 

Miscellaneous

Yesterday morning (Labor Day), Dave took Xavier and Lizet fishing. Dave bought Lizet a Barbie fishing rod and reel.  Yes, Dave... My husband... David Nelson.  

Angela and I spent the day together:  lunch at La Fiesta, a trip to Hobby Lobby, and a visit to Classic Pets.  Angela held her nose the whole time we visited the pet store.  

Lizet made a 100 on her spelling test.

Dave is teaching them to tithe by giving ten percent of their allowance either to the church, or to Casa Hogar San Jose.  They opted for San Jose.  

We took the kids to feed the ducks.  Angela chose to stay in the car with Dave, while Xavier, Lizet, and I fed a few ducks.  

 

  

Tidbits

Angela and Xavier's Spanish teacher called to let me know how respectful they are in class.  She also let me know how interested the other students are about them and how desperately they would like to communicate.

Lizet always likes me to choose her clothes in the morning... but she always picks the best shoes.

Lizet discovered the karaoke machine and I overheard she and Xavier pretending to be DJs.

We went to Sonic after school the other day... I bought them an afternoon snack.  I had out my cash and was showing the kids the presidents on the bills.  George Washington was the first President, I told them... Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth.  Xavier asked if they are dead.  I told them, yes.  I explained how Lincoln was shot while at the theater and Lizet then asked if I saw it.  Oh dear.

The three kids were so fascinated by the rain the other day... Standing on the patio, with their arms around each other, in awe.  Before the lightening and thunder, Lizet was prancing in it.

Xavier's science teacher called to inform me of my son's intelligence - WOW!

I caught Lizet drinking from the Hershey's syrup bottle yesterday.

Xavier killed a wasp that got in the house and saved it to show Papí.

Lizet informed me that Fletcher is El Rey - The King (of the house).  And yes, there’s a costume.

The kids love my Kool-Aid.  I think no matter who makes it, it's the same.

Angela hasn't been eating her lunch.  She says there are too many people in the cafeteria and it makes her nervous.  However, with the kids buying their lunches today, she didn't have a problem.  She still says she likes my lunches better.  Or maybe she's just being polite.

Xavier made a 100 on a math test!

Lizet plays the piano every day.  

I took the girls to Hobby Lobby tonight.  They love it!  Angela used her allowance to purchase a latch hook kit - a pink heart with purples and yellows, while Lizet chose a fashion designer kit. Angela also bought some candy for the family.  I showed Angela how to do the latch hook (having done many of them when I was her age) and she asked that I demonstrate one more time...  I did... Then she did, and said “Yippee!”

 

School Days

You know how soup tastes better the second night after the flavors have had time to marry? Well, let's just say a little confidence, good attitude, and optimism married to produce a better second day of school!  (As Angela says, “Yippee!”)  After waiting in line at Madison, here comes Angela, finding me and beaming with a huge smile, as a Hispanic amiga walked with her to the car.  She made a friend!  Thank you, Jesus!  She said good-bye to her new friend and quickly produced her name and number scrawled on a piece of notebook paper.  She quickly told me about her day, shared her excitement for the two hours of homework she had, and gulped down a cold bottle of water I brought her.  Xavier soon followed to tell me his day was great, too! He told me about a cool science experiment they did in class.  It sounded like something demonstrated the actions of a volcanic eruption.  Lizet waited patiently for me as we waited in a very long line at Ranch Heights.  She was thrilled about her day, saying it was better than yesterday.  Three for three!  Hooray!  Xavier had no homework, with which I'm about to inquire.  I'm a bit concerned there's no homework for a 7th-grader, two days in a row. Lizet's homework consisted of a math worksheet about place value of whole numbers, and a spelling activity: coloring, cutting, and gluing spelling words and the matching pictures in her spelling spiral.  Angela's homework was an assignment from her math book on the basics of pre-algebra, a Spanish worksheet on numbers, and a take-home quiz over a film they watched on bacteria and viruses.  She showed me a library book she checked out - it's in Spanish, but in English it's called Hank the Cowdog.  After homework, they showered and are now watching their favorite program. 

You know the one.   

Carpool Lane

I had no trouble getting up today at 6:30, luckily, neither did the kiddos. Xavier was already awake when I entered his room; hopping out of bed and into the girls' room to wake them up for school.  They joined me in the kitchen for cereal and juice and seemed happy about beginning something new and different.  No more Phineas and Ferb, Hannah Montana, or The Suite Life on Deck in the mornings.  They all dressed (since they showered last night), styling their hair perfectly for the first day. Their lunches were packed and refrigerated from last night;  turkey sandwich (Xavier having two), a bag of chips, a Zinger, banana, and a Caprisun juice pouch.  In addition to last night's preparations, we excitedly wrote their names on school supplies and filled their backpacks. Their lunch packs are cute: Angela's is hot pink and resembles a purse.  Lizet has a princess bag, and Xavier's is lime green.  This morning, Xavier placed his arm through the hot pink bag, and waved while saying in a girly voice, "Hi."   Everything was ready to grab and go!  Unbeknownst to me, Dave decided to go in a little late so he could participate in their first day of school, as well.  That was a nice surprise!  We all left around 7:30 to take Xavier and Angela to school.  On Mondays, they have an assembly in the auditorium, first thing.  Dave and Lizet stayed in the car while I walked Xavier and Angela through the building to the appropriate location.  We were met by the principal and counselor who escorted them to a seat. Since they were in good hands, I joined Lizet and Dave.  We went back home for a little while until time to take Lizet to school.  After thirty minutes of cartoons and some time alone with Fletcher, we were back in the car.  Dave and I walked Lizet to her classroom to meet her teacher, Mrs. England. Lizet was comfortable being left with other students while waiting for the bell.  As we were leaving, I kept looking back over my shoulder - it seemed I was the one who needed reassurance.  Dave dropped me off at the house and I got busy organizing the girls' closet, made a stop at Goodwill, treated myself to some Mexican food, bought several items of clothes for the kids and headed home.  I baked some chocolate chip cookies until time to pick up the kids. While waiting, I received a phone call from Bartlesville schools.  It was from the counselor at Madison to inform me that the kids were having a wonderful day. What a relief! I was so glad to hear there were no tears or hiding out in the bathroom.  Fortunately, they had an ELL teacher with them, escorting them from class to class.  I sat in the carpool lane outside Madison for a few minutes until I saw them with their ELL teacher come out the front door at 2:35.  As soon as they saw me, they smiled!  They were so happy to get in the car to tell me all about their day.  Xavier loved his day, while Angela expressed she didn't want to go back, even though once we were home, she couldn't wait to show me her things from school.  They had a snack of cookies and chocolate milk, then it was time to pick up Lizet, who ran out smiling and waving at me.  She had a wonderful day!!  It turns out I was the only one with homework.  Questionnaires for parent and child.  I double-checked by calling the homework hotline, only to find some teacher's hotline had recordings from March of last year.  It is official, I guess... no homework.  Angela is napping on the couch, Xavier and Lizet are playing outside, a little piano has been played, and now we're waiting on our soup to finish simmering.  Dave surprised the kids by purchasing the Peru package on our cable, so tonight... Al Fondo hay Sitio. Even I am happy about that!   

Registrations and Inoculations

My children are enrolled!  I woke up the children at 8:00 and they rapidly put on their clothes for the day, brushed their hair and teeth, and popped on their shoes.  We left, heading for Madison Middle School where we had an appointment with the registrar.  She was amazed I had everything filled out correctly and had all the necessary paperwork.  Of course, I've actually maintained her position in an elementary school, so I was ahead of the game in that regard. So, the process was quick as far as enrolling.  We also received bus passes for Xavier and Angela, received a tour of the school; their classes are clustered in the same area of the building by grade, and they even had a chance to practice operating their lockers.  They were each given their class schedule and an agenda notebook.  In addition, the ELL teacher gave each of them a hand-held translator.  They have already been speaking more English just today!  I've never seen Angela so excited!  Since our time at Madison was a bit longer than expected,  we ventured on to Sonic for some hamburgers and tater tots.  After lunch, we visited Ranch Heights, enrolling Lizet. Everyone has been so wonderful and helpful in the Bartlesville school system, thus far.  After our day of registration concluded, we went home for some television and then prepared for our next activity out:  more vaccinations.  In Peru, there were some shots the doctor felt the children are too young to accept, while in the States the schools require.  I have little patience for employees in government offices, by the way.  The woman who was "helping" us get in the system was asking about the children's ages.  I whipped out their birth certificates (in case she needed proof) and she says to me... "Well, I don't see any vaccinations they've had at all."   I say, (a bit sternly, I think) "Those are their birth certificates."  Then, I produced their shot records from Peru to help clarify.  Too bad there wasn't an interpreter there because apparently the vaccines were difficult to read.  I didn't have any trouble, and I'm not fluent in Spanish.  Anyway... We waited a bit longer since the computer wasn't cooperating.  We finally see the nurse who eventually came back after getting approval for the vaccines.  So, Angela and Xavier received the Hepatitis A, and the Polio vaccines, while Lizet received those in addition to her Tetanus, which stung quite a bit since a bit of wailing commenced. After a day of vaccines, I'm the kind of mother who makes a trip to Braum's afterwards.  I told them it was a double-dip day, so they each chose chocolate and strawberry for their waffle cones.  While eating their ice cream, Xavier suggested I show them the town's cemetery. Okay... He proceeded to tell me about the cemetery in Arequipa where there are legends of "terror".  I assured him there is nothing like that in Bartlesville. We drove around one of our cemeteries and the girls were commenting on the pretty flowers and statues, when Xavier asks, "Will I be here when I die?"  I told him if he made that decision, but Mamí and Papí would be there long before he would.  He turned to me with this look of horror on his face and informed me that I would never die.  Oh, okay.  We returned home, playing with Fletcher and watching another program. Dave came home and we had leftovers from the previous two nights.  The kids played outside while Dave and I prepared dinner.  After a fun and talkative meal, we headed to Wal-Mart to buy school supplies, lunch makings for the week, and a few miscellaneous things.  Xavier spent some of his money on a World Wide Wrestling poster for above his bed.  Lizet spent some of hers on a pink pretend phone.  Angela is opting to save.  When we came home, we unloaded groceries and Dave mentioned tonight's movie would be X-Men.  While "attempting" to have some alone time, I started running the bath.  I closed the bedroom door and the bathroom door, was in the bathroom on the toilet, half-dressed and in walks my girls to ask me a question.  Really?  Oh yes, really!  Lizet then took some fake pictures of me with her pretend phone - thank goodness it's fake!  I asked the girls to give mommy some privacy and they did, only for Lizet to return once I was in the tub, to feed me popcorn (and take another "picture").  But, I did thank Dave for my mommy time.       

English Proficiency Test

We had one of the more popular breakfast choices this morning:  an egg sandwich.  Angela likes strawberry milk with her well-done egg.  After a late breakfast, the kids made their beds and showered/bathed, getting ready for the day.  We met with the ELL (English Language Learners, as opposed to ESL:  English as a Second Language) team at Madison Middle School so the kids could take their English Proficiency test.  They measured 1.0 on a 1.0-6.0 scale, which is not unusual.  In some instances, a child may have been back and forth with Spanish and English -speaking family members and know more; therefore, they begin with a higher level workbook. While they were testing, I visited the Social Security office to see what I need to request their social security cards.  It turns out, they need their Green Card to process a social security card. Fortunately, the school doesn't need a social security card immediately, to enroll them.  So, after discussing their ages and abilities, I discovered our children are in 4th, 6th, and 7th grades.  I was able to meet the counselors at the middle school, as well.  I'm pleased with the help I received at Ranch Heights Elementary, also.  Lizet is excited she will be at a school without her siblings.  The ELL teacher let us borrow the LeapFrog learning booklets and kits.  We went home and the children had Chocolate Brownie ice cream - Blue Bell, of course.  The kids watched The Hunchback of Notre Dame while Angela busily worked on her LeapFrog machine.  Xavier had worked on it when hitting the door.  I popped in a casserole a friend from Dave's office prepared for us... three hours later... done.  We had the poppy seed chicken casserole, fruit, and rolls.  They played in the backyard for a little while after dinner.  Then - the big moment - Dave decided to mow, giving each one a ride several times around.  The kids were cheering on one another; Lizet yelled out to Xavier... "Xavier, buena suerte" which means, good luck.  Each one watched the other, then Angela was corralling Fletcher, saying "good boy" in pretty good English.  Lizet has picked up my line of, "Come on, Baby" when calling Fletcher, except she says, "Come on, Bebé."  Next, the kids tidied up their rooms, put on their pajamas, and Lizet discovered a black dot on the underside of her foot.  It was a blood blister, but Xavier insisted it was cancer.  I said, "It's not cancer."  But he kept saying it.  Dave helped pop it, while Xavier and I held Lizet.  Lizet was brave, and then said, "Cancer.”  I said, "It's NOT cancer!"  They are now in bed listening to music while relieved they are cancer-free.                

Arvest

Our kids woke up fresh and energized this morning.  I made them scrambled eggs and then we watched a little television while Mamí emptied suitcases and started the day's laundry.  We got ready to go have a pizza party at Papí's work.  Arvest Bank employees are amazing! The kids had a wonderful time, even though they were a bit timid, meeting friends of Mamí and Papí's. Our Arvest friends had purchased numerous pizzas, many drinks, salad and a couple desserts.  We left happy and satisfied.  Next, we went downstairs and Papí handed out their first week's allowance of ten dollars each.  I drove the kids by the church we attend and then we stopped at Food Pyramid for a variety of gum.  Braum's was next on the list: ice cream cones.  While they ate their ice cream, I drove them to see their schools. They are looking forward to making new friends and learning English.  We went home to watch movies while Mamí did more unpacking and laundry.  While I worked on my task, Xavier organized his room by making his bed, refolding his clothes and placing them in the drawers of his choice, and setting up his dresser like a toy shrine.  Angela had done the same in the morning.  We had watermelon for an afternoon treat. Papí came home with a large supply of foods, drinks, desserts, and snacks from his friends at work.  We are well-stocked now!  We had leftover pizza for supper and now the children have gone with Dave to Dollar Tree and Wal-Mart for a few things like extra hangers, laundry baskets to collect their clothes that need washing, radios, etc. After Monopoly was played - to be continued tonight - the children went to bed offering hugs and kisses to Mamí and Papí.  Xavier pulled me to him, kissed me, and said, "I love you, Mamita."  

Christ Church

Sunday morning came early after Dave's sister's wedding day.  The children cooperatively got out of bed and put on their clothes from yesterday's nuptials.  We left for Christ Church and were looking forward to seeing all the Roof Dogs; their Tías and Tíos.  We were embraced at the door by a few of them and sat with others, while others joined us for refreshments in the fellowship hall between services.  Dave's parents joined us at church and Fr. David even mentioned us during the sermon, which was on "being adopted by Christ" and becoming a part of His Kingdom.  My parents and brother joined us in the fellowship hall for a final farewell before heading to Oklahoma.  One Roof Dog, Tía Kelly, took a picture of us in front of the altar before leaving.  We said our good-byes and headed back to Dave's parents’ house for a lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs. There was time for another swim while Dave packed the car.  Angela chose to watch television while I lathered up Xavier and Lizet with sunscreen.  Then they put on their life jackets, even though Xavier is clearly a fish in the water.  After changing into dry clothes, we headed home. Fletcher (our Westie who stayed with my parents and brother while we were in Peru) slept the whole way home on my lap.  We had a couple bathroom breaks in Atoka, then a McDonald's stop in McAlester.  Our drive was smooth and peaceful.  The children were counting down the minutes until reaching their new home.  We had to make a brief stop at the Tulsa airport to pick up Dave's car, since he flew into Dallas for Tía Kim's wedding.  (While we were visiting family in Texas, Dave had to return to work.)  Lizet, Fletcher, and I drove Dave's car home, following the others.  We pulled into our neighborhood and Lizet says, "muchas casas" with much excitement.  She was thrilled as we entered into the drive, got out joining her siblings, and walked in together.  They opened doors, drawers, and closets.  They LOVED their rooms and after showing them their closets, they thought someone had left their things.  I had to explain to them, "these are YOUR things"... they were speechless. They couldn’t believe their closets and drawers were stocked with clothes in all their sizes (thanks to several of my dear friends in Bartlesville).  After a couple hours of “oohing” and “aahing” at the backyard and realizing we don't have to share it with the neighborhood, they were ready for bed.  I think they were eager to get in their beds.  When I asked Lizet, "¿Es tu cama confortable?"  She responded, "No, es SUPER confortable." And giggled.  We left on the hall light and they left their doors opened, hoping that Fletcher would choose one of them to sleep with during the night.  Poor Fletcher conked out with Dave and me.  I think he was equally pooped!        

Wedding Day

This morning was an exciting morning... an early morning at 6:30... but exciting!  The children put on their "el matrimonio" clothing for Tía Kim and Tío Russ's special day, and I even had time to polish Lizet's fingernails with a pearly white polish my mother gave her.  We arrived at the Addison Event Center about 8:30 in the morning in time for the 9:00 photographs.  After many combinations of photos were taken, the wedding began.  It was a beautiful ceremony with lots of arched mirrors, gold chairs, and chandeliers.  The children seemed to enjoy the experience and were ready for lunch.  We visited with family and the children met more friends of the family, giving away free hugs.  The wedding party formed a line to enter the buffet filled with salad, casseroles, meats, fruits, and breads.  We had more than enough to please the children's taste buds. The children ate with my parents and my brother Eric, while I had lunch with some of Dave’s extended family, close by.  Dave ate with his parents, his other sister Kelly, and some family friends.  Cake followed, decorated with chocolate-covered strawberries.  Once the dancing started, people were out on the floor, dancing to oldies like Ghostbusters and Billie Jean.  Towards the end, one young woman was wearing what appeared to be a tunic with a belt... a little short to say the least.  I glanced at Xavier and he had both hands covering his eyes.  Once we left, he asked me in the car if I saw that one girl in the short dress and told him I had.  He shook his head with a grimace and said, "es mal, no bien" and I had to agree.  It was bad, not good.  Overall, they had a good day... it got even better later.  

We hit the pool for a while in the afternoon, then they changed in preparation for an early dinner.  My in-laws had several couples visiting from Kansas, so while they visited with the children, Dave’s cousin Bryan and his wife Shellie treated us to dinner at Jalapeños.  Afterwards, they bought a few board games for the kids from Target.  Once we got back to my in-laws, Lizet and Xavier got in the pool once again.  Bedtime hit around 11:00 p.m. and they were ready!    

Family

As you may have guessed, there hasn't been a spare moment for me to blog.  Every moment has been filled with family, food, gifts, enjoyment, games, love, and prayers of thanksgiving.  Our children have been grateful, gracious, loving, and mannerly towards everyone they've been around.  My daddy has helped them with their English and lets them play his harmonica, my mama has cooked with Angela, and Lizet took to my brother affectionately. Xavier loves the pool at my in-laws, my mother-in-law took the kids to Build-a-Bear and baked chocolate chip cookies with Lizet, and my father-in-law watches them as they swim and hugs them, loving them unconditionally.  Tonight, my son asked if he can live with us until he's 100. Would it surprise any of you to know that it thrilled my soul?!   

I've discovered they enjoy Tex-Mex.  Thank you, Jesus!  Even Angela, who wasn't fond of beans in Peru, gobbled up her refried beans!  Chicken quesadillas with beans and rice was their meal of choice and they all loved it! Lizet and Xavier ask for no ice with sodas, but Angela accepts ice. It's interesting to see the newness they embrace and the familiar to which they cling.    

    

Ft. Lauderdale

We landed safely in Ft. Lauderdale at 5:40 a.m.  The kids were all able to sleep on the plane, so they were refreshed.  Dave caught a couple 40-minute sections of sleep and I was unable to sleep at all.  We deplaned, heading in the only direction available: Customs and Border Protection.  Each time we turned a corner we thought, “well, that’s not so bad” until… we entered the big room filled with many lines.  Fortunately, every window was available, so it moved rather quickly.  We headed to the window with our unopened adoption packets and passports.  They stamped what was necessary and then escorted us into the Homeland Security office to have their Green Cards processed, which will be mailed to our house.  After opening and verifying said packets, they stamped more documents, had the children sign their new names and took their fingerprints.  We then waited in a small room for about thirty minutes.  Finally, they declared our kids U.S. citizens!  Next, we headed to gather our bags, which were all together and no one was around except for an airport employee who helped us retrieve all our things.  Then, we walked through Customs – no line – we were congratulated, and told to pass through – no checks!  And… we’re done!  We found a cart, grabbed a shuttle to take us to the car rental, and loaded up our Chrysler Town & Country.  We made it to the Marriott successfully.  Dave took Xavier and Lizet swimsuit shopping while Angela and I stayed in the hotel.  After a lunch of Burger King, Xavier, Lizet, and Dave headed to the beach after being slathered with sunscreen.  I hope if Xavier collects any rocks, he won’t take a bubble bath with them this time.  While they were at the beach, Angela took a bath and I knew she was happy because I could hear her singing the whole time.  Dave and the kids returned having played in the ocean and burying Xavier in the sand.  Xavier brought his mamá seashells.  They had a great time.  We got ready to go to dinner and asked the downstairs receptionist for suggestions.  We went across the street to Dave & Buster’s, per one of her many suggestions.  After dinner, the kids got to spend their arcade cards.  We are now in our room; the kids are happy sharing one bed right beside us.  We are also introducing the kids to one of our favorite cartoons, King of the Hill.  They seem to be enjoying it.  They are quiet.         

Anglican Cathedral of the Good Shepherd

This morning our children didn’t want to go to church.  Too bad!  They got up finally and had breakfast.  We left the condo, got a taxi, and made it to church.  The Anglican Cathedral of the Good Shepherd is a beautiful church, which I was glad to visit again after our tour from Susan.  We were greeted and handed a hymnbook (Anglican Hymns Old & New) and The Book of Common Prayer.  Inside one of the books was the service bulletin.  We attended one of the English services and the children enjoyed it.  That’s a relief.  I told them that it is good preparation for when we get home, and it will help them with their English.  It took a while to “pass the peace” since we found our English friends who were visiting Arequipa.  After communion, we were asked to come forward for a blessing for safe travels.  This was after Susan had announced who we were; as she became tearful, so did we.  After the service, we headed to the fellowship hall where they had refreshments and the continuation of a book sale from Saturday.  Xavier found three books - thrillers.  After visiting with others in the fellowship hall, we helped box up books to send back to whomever, or from wherever they came.  We left, taking the children to have lunch at an up-scale, all-you-can-eat buffet.  It specializes in seafood, specifically, ceviche.  Okay, I was hesitant, but tried it.  I need to be that example because I’m sure I’ll tell our children to try something in the future.  The shrimp ceviche was my favorite, if I have to pick a favorite.  Raw fish isn’t necessarily up my alley, but the spices and citrus were delicious.  Lizet chose the dessert buffet as her favorite.  She also seems to love the drink, chicha morada.  (I just had Angela type the spelling for me on the plane.)  This drink is made from the purple variety of corn and is fermented; then pineapple juice, cinnamon, and cloves are added.  She also had a gelatin-like pudding made from the same ingredients.  Her upper lip was purple.  Lizet also devoured a certain kind of fruit that is gelatinous and seedy called granadilla.  She loves her fruit!  The others enjoyed a modest helping of foods.  All in all, it was a good experience and I can now say I’ve had ceviche in Peru.  Next, we hailed a taxi to return us to our abode for a few more hours, anyway.  We finished our packing and cleaning and Xavier and Angela took turns taking a bubble bath.  Xavier likes to sit in the tub, rest on his calves, and “dive” into the bubbles.  So, he did that for a while.  He had to show me, of course.  Then Angela spent about 35 minutes in the bubbles, sliding back and forth on her belly.  I had to tell them to keep water off the floor, so I had to repeat myself a bit and wipe the floor with towels.  They are so excited about bathtubs!  I can’t get too mad about things like that.  After a few cartoons and more progress with a jigsaw puzzle, Paul, our English friend came to inspect the condo, and refunded our deposit of S./.900.00 ($300) and we handed him our key.  He walked with us downstairs to our driver, the same gentleman with the van who drove us to our condo in the first place.  We kissed and hugged good-bye and were driven to the airport.  We were fortunate to not experience any traffic and arrived safely.  We were first in line at the Spirit Airlines ticket counter.  I don’t know how that happened.  We checked our bags, and each of us took our carry-on and headed upstairs to the food court.  We had McDonald’s.  The kids got happy meals; actually, Xavier got two.  After restroom breaks, Dave decided to go ahead and pay the departure tariff.  Next, we grabbed our things and headed to security.  We made it through security without a problem, not much of a line here, either.  Then, we went to the immigration line - we were fourth in line.  I think we each had an angel with us.  Everything checked out and we proceeded to the waiting area.  We boarded and here I sit, on a dark plane, typing away while Angela sleeps next to me in 1^st class.  Good-bye Peru… for now.      

      

Raúl and María

Today was a lazy day... my favorite kind of day. Everyone got up on their own today and we had breakfast together. We watched a little television and read. Dave went out for a couple ready-made pizzas.  So, we had a strange concoction of pizza and leftover tamales for lunch.  After lunch, we told the kids we needed to clean the place and “leave it better than when we found it”.  Xavier took charge and wanted to sweep, while Angela chose to mop and Lizet volunteered for the "supervisor" position. Shocking, I know.  (She actually did make her bed and organize her laundry.)  They did a fantastic job!  

Lizet wanted to take a bath, so I got the tub warm and bubbly.  She told Angela to come get me, so I went in thinking she needed something, but she just wanted to show me her happy self, rolling around in the bubbles and laughing.  She wanted me to help dry her off, so I did. Then, Xavier wanted to take a bath, so I prepared him a fresh bubble bath.  He wanted me to come in and wash his back, so I did. Angela and I have been assembling her jigsaw puzzle this afternoon.  There sure is a lot of yellow!  Raúl and María came over around 5:30 with a cake made of chocolate mousse.  Two different kinds of chocolate pleased everyone.  We have fallen in love with Raúl and María.  They are our Peruvian "parents" and we will be in touch with them forever. We are having soup and bread with butter for dinner.  The kids are accustomed to small meals in the evening, which actually results in better sleep.  

We have had a wonderful experience in Peru. It's a great preview to our future!     

United States Embassy

Getting up was pretty easy for a 6:30 wake-up call.  Lizet isn’t much of a morning person, and at the breakfast table, she resembles someone in a coma.  But, once she has something in her tummy, there’s no stopping her!  We got a taxi in front of our condo around 7:30, arriving at the United States Embassy early, but we allotted for traffic.  We met Raúl in front of the building only minutes apart.  The line wasn’t long, but we entered it to be greeted by someone who’s been expecting us.  He knew we were the Nelsons. That was impressive!  Of course, being the only adoption case for the day and at the top of the list doesn’t hurt.  We entered security after having our passports reviewed and they kept our camera and phone for the time being.  We then entered another line in a different building within the confines of the Embassy, going through another security check.  We headed to the correct window, presented our information and unsealed documents to the appropriate person, and paid.  She entered our information and organized the already organized packets into separate blue file folders.  We waited.  Finally, we met with the Consulate.  I think I finally found a job I would love – if I were bilingual, that is.  We went into a little room with a security door facing this young woman shielded by bulletproof glass.  In fact, all the windows were bulletproof.  She was very nice, asking the children some questions and then us, and then them again.  We were with her for about fifteen minutes and she approved us.  She said their visas would be ready Monday. That’s when my blood pressure rose a bit.  Raúl was right in suggesting we print out our plane  reservations, so Dave calmly said that our flight is on Sunday and our condo lease is up on Monday.  She responded with a quick, “okay, hang on just a second…” She returned and said they would try their best to have them ready between 2:00 and 3:00.  She handed Dave the second half of these red tickets and said it was only necessary for one of us to return.  Raúl said they would have it done - Americans always get the job done.  To us, it was just a matter of when.  So, around 10:45 we were finished, said goodbye to Raúl and headed to Larcomar.  

Larcomar is a spiffy outdoor mall on the beach.  We let the kids play in the arcade for about forty minutes; Lizet tried to turn in her tokens for toys, immediately.  I persuaded her to come join Angela and me at one of the machines.  Dave and Xavier played with machine guns in a mock safari and drove racecars.  The girls found a basketball game to be fun, as well as racing cars.  That was worth the $21.00.  Xavier collected a lot of tickets, but we were all getting hungry so we told him we would return to “buy” something from their “store” after lunch.  We had lunch at TGI Fridays.  There was also a Chili’s and a Tony Roma’s.  I had nachos, Lizet had a chicken plate with green beans (which she didn’t care for since they were steamed) and French fries, Angela had a regular hamburger with no cheese.  Xavier had a barbecue beef sandwich, and Dave had something off the lunch menu including tacu tacu, fried plantains, French fries, and a thinly cut piece of meat, grilled.  Tacu tacu is different, but very good.  It is a mixture of beans and rice that have been rolled in a crisp breadcrumb, like Panko, and fried.  The kids all got a fruity beverage; Angela chose a banana-pineapple smoothie, and Lizet and Xavier chose a strawberry slush.  After lunch, I took the kids back to the arcade to redeem Xavier’s ticket, which ended up being something SO not worth the time, but he was happy, so it turns out it was.  You all probably know what I mean… carnival trinkets aren’t that impressive.  Dave met us in front of the arcade after attempting to find a calling card, having no luck.  We walked up the steps to the main entrance and were greeted by someone offering us a taxi service.  We accepted.  It’s often that when leaving the airport, grocery store, department store, etc., taxi services are readily available.  It’s a good business strategy on their part.  We headed back to our condo and the kids and I relaxed watching television while Dave headed back to the Embassy.  I was thrilled when Dave returned within the hour with their passports and visas enclosed and the unsealed envelopes for each child to hand to the appropriate official in Florida when we reach Customs.  We’re done!  We had a good dinner of leftovers and ended with more birthday cake.  Next, it will be time for Al Fondo hay Sitio and then to bed.  What a great day!         

Birthday Girl

The birthday girl was the first one up this morning: showering, making her bed, and having breakfast.  The others followed, sleepily eating their cereal.  Xavier immediately came in to our room where Angela was watching television with me and hugged her and said, “¡Feliz cumpleaños, hermanita!”  Angela opened her presents: a jigsaw puzzle of Rockefeller Center, two books on myths and legends, and a travel book of Arequipa.  We also included $40 US dollars.  (She has shown an interest in makeup and getting her ears pierced.)  For lunch we had fried chicken and green rice.  Raúl came by for an hour to discuss tomorrow with us, and what we need to bring with us to the Embassy.  We have sealed packages of their medical reports and x-rays that only the consulate can open.  We are taking those along with their passports, our passports, other documents, and mucho dinero.  We thought it would be wise to also take copies of our airline tickets for Sunday.  Raúl said that if we present the tickets, the process could be expedited if there is a foreseen delay.  Our appointment is in the morning, so hopefully if there is an issue, we can rectify it by the afternoon.  This is the final thing we have to do before we can leave: receive their exit visas.  The children and I relaxed and watched television, specifically a cartoon called Gato Cósmico, while Dave went out to print the airline reservations, get money (at various ATMs since there’s a daily limit at each machine) and pick up a red-tipped white rose for Angela.  For dinner, we had tamales with peas and carrots.  For dessert, we had Angela’s tres leches cake and special ice cream floats with crushed cookies prepared by Dave.  Xavier is in bed now, listening to music, and the girls are finishing up with their showers since they’re not crazy about getting up at 6:00 to do so.  Can you blame them?  I know I’ve taken my shower tonight.  And Angela didn’t mind a second one.          

Doctor Visits

The kids got out of bed refreshed this morning, having showered and eaten breakfast.  Raúl collected us and took us to our first doctor's appointment for the day.  We arrived for our 11:00 appointment to have Xavier and Angela's chests x-rayed, testing for Tuberculosis.  Lizet is too young.  We then met with the doctor's assistant who took the children's vital signs and filled out preparatory paperwork for the doctor at our 6:00 appointment in the evening.  We then went to pick up paperwork from the translator for the U. S. Embassy.  Next, Raúl dropped us off at La Quinta to buy the kids some clothes.  Dave and Xavier went in one direction while the girls and I went in another.  This store is set up with tables each manned by a different person.  If you want to purchase something, they write you a ticket, giving you two copies.  Next, you pay in the center of the store and then return to each booth to collect your bagged items, handing them one of the stamped receipt copies.  Next, we walked to Ripley, a three-story department store.  Again, going in both directions, Xavier was the only one who found something:  a t-shirt.  We were ready for lunch so we stopped at a café called Palachinke for sandwiches.  They specialize in "panqueques" and is decorated with Scandinavian motif. Our next stop... the condo. Dave decided to go out again to get Angela a tres leches cake for her birthday.  We also got her some gifts.  We will celebrate her 12th tomorrow!  Raúl picked us up at 5:30 and we arrived for our 6:00 appointment.  We were told it would be at least an hour (which is why I thought you made appointments, but okay).  We walked to a café specializing in pasteries and other baked goods called Balthazar.  The children had warm milk and cookies. Dave and I shared a lomo saltado empanada; Lizet wanted bites from my fork, so I shared.  Dave ordered lucuma helado.  Lucuma is a fruit native to Peru, Ecuador, and Chile.  We also shared a slice of crème brûleé cheesecake.  We chatted for about an hour and headed back to the clinic.  We finally met with Dr. Situ and he examined their ears, noses, throats, respirations, and pressed on their abdomens.  After the good news of the kids having clear chest x-rays, Dave paid and we headed upstairs for their inoculations. None of them cried and they all received at least three vaccines, Xavier and Angela receiving four.  I'm glad they each were given the meningitis vaccine.  The others were standard U. S. vaccines, as well.  Dave gave them each chocolate for doing such a good job.  He's such a good papá.  Raúl attempted to take us home, but his car wouldn't start, so he hailed two taxis and we headed in one direction while Raúl headed in another.  Dave made hamburgers for dinner and now the kids are watching Garfield.  We asked Angela what she would like to do for her birthday tomorrow and she basically said:  Stay home!  I can't blame the girl.  I’m a homebody, too!       

New Passports

Raúl picked us up this morning at our apartment at 9:00.  We went to the passport office (located in a parking garage) handing them our new birth certificates and our passports in order to get expedited to the appropriate office.  We then went to an office that checked our paperwork and verified the children's birthdays and names, while a woman entered them in a computer.  Next, we went to the office next door for the photographs.  Then we waited.  And waited.  Within the estimated hour, we were called to pick up their ready passports.  Considering in the States you have to wait six weeks, it wasn't bad at all.  Then, Raúl drove us to the SNA office for us to sign a couple post-placement adoption forms.  Then, Dave and Raúl, Xavier, and Lizet walked to have photo copies made for Raúl.  Next, Raúl dropped off the received papers from the adoption office to have them translated.  Finally, he dropped us off at the Anglican church where Susan and John Park reside, as they had invited us over for lunch.  Their house is situated within the confines of the church.  A man opened the gated door and led us to their front door, ringing the bell.  John welcomed us, donned in his Anglican attire, collar and cross.  John is a very warm man, a gentleman, and a friend.  We chatted as the children played Legos; Angela perused a coffee table book.  We had a lunch of pizza from the neighborhood Pizza Hut and Susan made cherry Kool-Aid for the kids.  I tried iced tea (green) that was quite tasty.  After having pizza, Susan presented the children with cookies.  After much visiting, Susan gave us a tour of the church.  Good Shepherd is beautiful.  I wasn’t surprised since I first admired the church windows through their living room windows.  They seem only three feet away from the living room.  Susan told us the history of the church while I admired the stained glass.  After departing, the five of us headed to a local grocery store called Wong's.  The market is filled with employees dressed in Asian attire which were bright red shirts and pants outfits with squared-off red hats.  Their uniforms reminded me of the chefs at P.F. Chang's.  We collected several items for the week.  Dave surprised me with a can of Dr Pepper that is only sold at Wong's.  After returning to the condo, Angela, Lizet, and I chilled out watching cartoons while Dave and Xavier walked to the beach.  Xavier was so excited to bring back a handful of rocks to show me.  It was cold and there weren't many people there, according to Dave.  For dinner, we had Dave's homemade meatballs and bucatini pasta with sauce. We are now watching our favorite program: Al Fondo hay Sitio.  Buenos noches.           

Lima

Naty arrived at 8:00 this morning to stay with the children while we tackled City Hall, once again.  When we arrived, we were pleased to see Rocio was already there with our Italian friends.  They were finally able to sign their paperwork and together, we were all waiting for the chief to leave his index print to make it official.  We were a bit nervous at first because the chief was out again.  But, Rocio whipped out her cell phone and made a call getting the approval to have the assistant make the final signature and print.  Thank you, Rocio!  We all walked together to make copies for Rocio and our file in Arequipa.  Before departing, we took photographs of one another, exchanged e-mail addresses, and tearful hugs.  Dave and I stopped to check e-mail and also to see if we could add the kids’ document numbers to our airline tickets.  We couldn’t, so we walked over to the LAN office only to be told to come back at 3:30 since the supervisor wasn’t in at the moment.  We arrived home just in time to find the kids finishing breakfast.  They bathed and then watched television while I found some remaining things to pack.  We had leftovers for lunch.  Dave left and returned with much success from the LAN office and we put the finishing touches on the luggage.  Padre Juan Carlos and his wife, Maria, came around 4:30 with his van to take us to the airport.  Once arriving to the airport, we got all eleven bags and headed to the ticket line… we were first in line!  We got our bags tagged and their document numbers and our passports approved.  We went upstairs to watch planes come in and take off.  Dave decided to go ahead and pay our airline tax, another first-in-line situation.  While still waiting closer to time to go through security, Naty arrived to sit with us and presented us with a beautiful, decorative plate from Puno and some chocolates.  Before Naty left, Lizet pulled out three Coke Zero bottles, which had been refilled with Coca-Cola and handed them to Naty.  It was like a clown car.  We had no idea she had stuffed those in her backpack.  Dave had gone through them for that very reason and we can’t figure out when she would’ve had time to do it.  We went through security – our final first-in-line situation … I think I like this airport.  Security was easy and quick.  The kids volunteered to be scanned with the wand.  This was too funny.  We sat for a while waiting to see our plane come in for landing.  After everyone had deplaned, we were called to board.  We each grabbed our carry-on and headed to the line; yes, in this situation, there was a line.  As we walked outside (this plane calls for walking up the stairs to the plane), the kids looked back and waved to Naty.  I had no idea she was still there!  I felt teary again.  We have experienced so much love in Arequipa.  Something I’ve noticed about Latin airlines of any type is this:  the flight attendants are not only beautiful people, but their uniforms are suits - some three-piece.  The women (since it’s winter) were wearing navy blue coats (dusters, actually).  The men wear red ties with their navy blue suits, which is very classy.  Xavier had a window seat with Lizet in the middle and Angela on the aisle across from me.  Dave sat behind Angela.  Xavier and Lizet were so excited to be on a plane and to see the city lights; Angela, not so much.  When the attendants came by to offer drinks and snacks, Lizet somehow ended up with three.  I remembered her asking something to the “Señora”, but didn’t catch it, until I saw her pull out an extra snack box for each of the children.  Later, a male attendant walked by and handed Lizet another box.  I never heard her ask him anything… Wow!  This was quite embarrassing!  Our luggage arrived as we loaded up two carts.  Our friend Susan, a missionary in Lima, met us with two bags of groceries and had arranged a van to take us to our condo on the beach.  Susan also arranged our living arrangements for us.  Susan and her husband have been long-term missionaries for about twenty-five years.  They have lived in Lima for six years, and Honduras for eighteen.  Our apartment is actually located in Miraflores.  This apartment is very modern with wood floors, ceramic tiles, ceiling fans, plush furniture, washer and dryer, three bedrooms, two baths, and a view of the beach from the fifth floor.  We found out we will be here for the week.  Tomorrow is our appointment with the passport office, but our appointment with the U.S. Embassy won’t be until Friday.  So, most likely, we will be traveling home over the weekend.