Blessed by Three

Anna and Me

2012-02-11T03:22:00.003-05:00

I feel so ashamed. As I previously wrote, I took all three girls and made them "mini gators" from the time they could realize and I was wrong, so wrong. The very, very last thing in the world I wanted to do is hurt one of my girls. I am so afraid this will put a taint on the end of her high school career, which should be so much fun. I can excuse it by the fact that I was never a Mother before and didn't have a good role model, or I have a messed up way of looking at things, or the fact that in 1979-1982 I loved the place because I had a boyfriend there that I visited, and it was a safe place. I never went to school there, but by the way I carry on everyone would think I did.

I feel directly responsible for hurting one of my children, and that is the worst feeling in the world. .

Super Bowl Interview!

2012-02-05T19:27:00.001-05:00

Dad's Super Bowl Commercial!

2012-02-05T19:00:00.000-05:00

When Dads Away or We are off the Super Game!

2012-02-05T18:36:00.008-05:00

Note from Jia this morning

They should have put Timmy on one of the teams playing,
now he has to play football with his broncos

DJ G

Jia's tooth fairy present

Anna and Fabian

Here are some of the goings on at the Parnham home when Dad is away

BLUE JEANS AND MY BABY

2012-01-25T21:04:00.005-05:00

My Philanthropist
Such a loving young lady!

Bennyfoo helps with the counting

Little Jia
Hard at Work

Well it is that time of year again, Katie has begun the Teens for Jeans drive at Flanagan High School. She has 110 pair so far! She doesn't think she will get as much this year as she feels everyone probably cleaned out their closets last year. She just put a Facebook message out to all the students at her school (don't even ask me how she did that). Now she is starting to pile them up in her room, at which time it resembles Anna's room on a good day and I refuse to go in there!

On the Jia front, she had a lot of homework tonight, they are starting to add and subtract two digit numbers which means "carry the one" ugh, I hated that, but she likes Math. Her teacher is also starting to concentrate on grammar so she usually has a page of that each night. She read a whole chapter book this weekend. They have a reading log and have to read everyday and turn it in at the end of the month.

I don't know about you, but when I was young (a million years ago) you went to school, came home, had a snack and went outside to play kickball.

Jia has a little fort set up underneath her princess bed, lots of Barbies, Barbie airplanes, books, games, etc.

Jia also lost another tooth tonight, it is not a big deal for her, she jumps out of her Princess bed, brings it over to me and goes back to bed. With Anna and Katie there was wiggling for days,tears, blood and lots of drama....

The First Last

2012-01-23T21:08:00.003-05:00

Today was the first day of the girls last semester of high school. They started their last classes, and yes, I did cry.

Katie's Schedule: 1-A.P. Macroecomics
2-A.P. Literature
3- Ceramics
4- Yearbook

Anna's Schedule: 1: Biology II Honors
2: Teachers Assistant
3: A.P. Microeconomics
4. Yearbook

THAT'S ALL FOLKS!

Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T06:09:00.003-05:00

The Parnhams in China

Gung Ho Fat Choy! Happy New Year from Jia-Li (Ye Ru Hui) and her family. It is the year of the Dragon.

A Compliment when I needed one most....

2012-01-18T00:00:00.003-05:00

Katie (last night): "Mom, you should be a stand-up comedian!"

Believe it or not, when I was teaching 8th grade the kids had to take a career interest inventory. I took it with them every year just to see how it would come out. Every single time I did it the results came out:

1. Stand Up Comedian
2. Teacher

Maybe I have a new career waiting for me??

Hard to do..

2012-01-12T09:26:00.003-05:00

I have to pick out 30 pictures that represent Katie and Anna's whole life, plus write an inspirational message (did that part) without crying. The girls leaving is good, but letting them go may be the hardest thing I have ever had to do.

Me and the "G"

2012-01-11T21:11:00.005-05:00

Another missing tooth-this one happened at school
The going rate: $5.00

Jia wanted to take pictures tonight because she thought our shirts looked the same. She loves her shirt that she got for Christmas because it has a built in necklace and the jeans are skinny like Anna's.

Spent some time tonight waiting for Katie at a Student Government County Meeting, so Anna and I went to a Barnes and Noble close to where Katie was. Anna brought her homework, I bought her a treat and she did all her work. On the way home she informed me that she needed to do her homework at Barnes and Noble everyday because there was less distractions than home!

Round and Round

2012-01-10T19:54:00.002-05:00

They just put a carousel in our mall. Jia is in heaven.

Cold Front????

2012-01-03T20:32:00.007-05:00

Today it was 55 degrees - no question it is cold for South Florida. However, my family is bracing for a trip to the Arctic. Tomorrow it is supposed to be 37 degrees. Don't know what they are going to do, they already wore their warmest clothes today...

Kids do show up for school with blankets and bedspreads around them when it is cold, but I don't think that's going to happen here.

I have lived here since 1968, I am the least cold in the house. Anna gets the award for the most whining about being cold, and no one can figure out why Drew says he is so cold.

It's a Brand New Year!

2012-01-01T19:38:00.011-05:00

A lot of silly pictures from our New Years Celebration (sitting on the couch, eating cheesecake and watching Dick Clark).

The girls opened their Kindergarten time capsules from when they went to Beacon Hill School. As you can imagine, this brought more than a few tears from me. According to the capsules Katie is going to make a career out of babysitting and Anna will be Super girl.

Jia almost made it (11:30) and then off to her princess bed she went.

We wish you great happiness and prosperity in 2012!

Happy 2012...

2011-12-31T20:49:00.001-05:00

Christmas Day 2011!

2011-12-26T14:12:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas from the Parnham girls

Jia wanted a towel with her name on it
The older girls each got one from Nona a long time ago
Jia figures this was no one can use it but her.

Anna wears these kind of moccasins all the time
Katie bought her new ones
She also has a handmade giraffe Ipod case that I bought her
on Etsy

Cute calender
It has a "criminal" pug for each month

My baby girl

Drew working on our very fast Christmas dinner

Anna cutting squash

Katie's stuffed baked potatoes
My Mom's recipe

Me, making brown sugar carrots
my vanity has to tell you that my shirt was very baggy
and I am not that huge.

Dinner Time-we pulled it off!

Jia's delight at finding her princess bed

the secret hideaway underneath.
I think she has all of her Christmas toys under there now

She can go up the stairs and down the slide
each of the little purple things are pockets for her treasures
We haven't seen her since!

The big girls started out the day with a huge scavenger hunt, Katie's was based on Stetson University and Anna's was based on University of Florida, at the end the one that found the pickle won movie passes. This was Anna's year to win, although I am thinking that some of those tickets might find their way into Katie's hands.
Jia had her "best day ever" not only did she get everything on her list, but she got a really great princess bed from Nona and Grandpa. We have hardly seen her since. She just came down for lunch and told us to call her when dinner was ready.

The big girls save part of their money from Nona and Grandpa and gave me part of it to buy presents for them. I got 2 shirts for Katie and 2 gift certificates, one for Barnes and Noble and one for Old Navy. I also got her a book of useless facts, she loves these books and walks around telling us obscure things. Anna got a stuffed giraffe (she LOVES anything Giraffe related, a gift card for Target and a gift card from a store called Heritage. Anna also got a shirt. a lot of the big girls gifts were college related.

Here was Jia's list: a Barbie jet, squinkies (little animals and people who do things she got the carnival set) , a fairy Barbie, Moon Dough and a Moon Dough movie theater, Alvin and the chipmunks The Squeakual, Dance, Dance 3 for the WII, Dogopoly (from Ellen) clothes and a number of other things. The bed however was the big hit, she told us she slid out of bed this morning (it has both stairs and a slide).

We had a very nice Christmas dinner with everyone chipping in. We had all fallen asleep so preparations were pretty rushed.

We hope that you and yours had a wonderful day, and did not forget the real reason for the Christmas season.
God Bless...

Christmas Eve!

2011-12-24T23:52:00.005-05:00

Happy Christmas!!!!

2011-12-24T16:53:00.001-05:00

Please listen to the words of this song, a Christmas gift to you from all of us!

Ft. Lauderdale Boat Parade

2011-12-24T16:44:00.004-05:00

You are not a true South Floridian until you have seen the boat parade. It is on the Intercoastal waterway. It is very hard to get a place to see it unless you stake out a spot in the morning. Drew has never seen it, but he works with a guy who has a condo on the intercoastal, so the family was given VIP treatment and just had to show up before it started. The boats range from small owner boats, to corporate yachts and tv news channel sponsored boats.

I have lived here since 1968 and have seen it many times so I stayed at home. Katie also chose to stay here, but the rest of them had a great time!

Visit to Santa & more...

2011-12-23T09:12:00.004-05:00

A few days ago we went to see Santa. Jia was very excited to wear the beautiful dress that Nona and Grandpa bought her last year. It was too big then, but fits her perfectly now. The big girls were good sports and got in the picture too. I have pictures of them with Santa from 1 month old (thank you Mama Rita) until this year. I told them that this will go on even after they are married and have children.

Jia was not shy at all about rolling out her list. The girls both asked for a college education...lol.

The biggest present that Jia is going to get is a princess bed. This is a gift from Nona and Grandpa. It is a bunk bed that has a slide to get down ( a ladder too) and a secret space underneath with curtains (pictures to come) we bought it from another teacher and it looks like brand new. Only problem is-it has to be assembled in Jia's room on Christmas Eve (that's what Dads are for)

Anyway, Jia is going to get a letter from Santa today asking her to sleep downstairs with Anna as her room is going to be the Pembroke Pines Distribution Center for presents.

Everyone knows there will be a plethora of pictures to follow...

A HUGE List, we've checked it TWICE!

2011-12-22T09:07:00.004-05:00

Jia delivered her very detailed list to Santa. Will all her dreams come true? Only if Dad is handy with the wrench....

PS: Jia to Anna as Anna is lighting a candle: it's okay if you burn down the house, I'll just move to Canada!

Must Read for our Parnham, Sardachuck, Updegrove Families (El too)

2011-12-16T11:08:00.005-05:00

To our dear families, I wanted to share this email I received from Katie's teacher:

Dear Lesa and Drew,
What I will tell Katie is that I love to celebrate a birthday and Christmas for days!!! So if the present does not arrive until after Christmas, it will be something for me to look for upon my return.
As I wrote to Katie in my Christmas note to her, sometimes in your teaching life, a student not only walks into your life but also into your heart. Katie walked into my heart. I expect to be in touch with her and cheer her for her successes and dance at her wedding and all sorts of wonderful things. God gave you three beautiful daughters, and I know you are proud of each one. Knowing Anna and Katie has been a privilege. Having Katie with me for three glorious years has been a highlight of my teaching career.
Have a wonderful Christmas.
Love,
Carol Sheppard

Anna's Random Pictures

2011-12-15T08:10:00.011-05:00

The Editor-in Chief
BIG deadline tonight

Pretty Jia picture

My dog, Tink

Anna's dog Lola

Jia and Katie are still working hard
in their pumpkin roll factory

The master chef

Bennyfoo ready for college
he has his Stetson collar on!

Katie's usual pose for a picture

Anna had the very expensive yearbook camera at home so she was sneaking around taking pictures of her sisters and her animals.

Poor Jia

2011-12-10T10:30:00.007-05:00

Jia kind of looks like a criminal in this picture

This is after the color was a little faded, she was very purple for a while

Yuck

She, she is still her silly self!

Little Jia was running like the wind in aftercare a few days ago. She took a fall and this is the outcome. When she first came home it didn't look this bad, things like this always look worse a few days later. She also has a cut on her head under her hair. Our tough little Jia didn't bat an eyelash. She is a tough one!

ONCE UPON A TIME...

2011-12-08T02:53:00.022-05:00

Today is the day we are decorating our
Christmas Tree

Welcome, and thanks for looking at our family's silly good time

Anna and Daddy-of course there is a Stetson shirt and a Gator Santa hat
(and a glimpse of fresh purple hair- Anna's not Drew's)

Jia getting started, she can only hang up the non-breakables
without a little help. When Katie was little she used to call the fragile ornaments
the "glassables" so of course, that's now what we all call them.
(Someday Jia is going to be SO confused)

Tall girl gets the high spots
Anna also volunteered for the dreaded job of putting the lights on the tree

Jia and Daddy
Katie calls Jia "Dad's barnacle"as Jia never wants to be without him

The girls and MA-MA

Katie and "Andrew" which is what she calls him.
She calls me "Mother" she is such a funny kid.

Mother and the rest of the girls
Jia looks like she is plotting something in this one

Anna kissing Albert (University of Florida's mascot)
for good luck

Why yes, I do kiss my dog on the lips!
Tink my blue chihuahua and only son.

Anna and Rex, the most terrible dog you would ever want to meet
see his devil eyes glowing?
He is up for adoption the day after Anna leaves for college
Accepting applications now.

Dad, working hard

Mom helps Jia with a "glassable" breakable ornament

A Parnham photo blog would not be complete without a weird face from Anna

This is our other little chihuahua
Josie
She has some horrible burn scars on the other side of her body
but she is a lover and thinks she is the most beautiful dog in the world.

A rare moment: Katie letting loose to dance with her little sister

Another dance move

Their finale
(you really have to sneak up with the camera to get shots
of Katie being silly so I treasure these!)

All Done!

EVERYONE HAD A LOT OF FUN. THERE WAS GINGERBREAD COOKIES FRESH FROM THE OVEN (THANK YOU KATIE) CHRISTMAS MUSIC AND LIGHTS ON THE TREE (THANKS ANNA) DAD HAD THE LADDER OUT AND EVERYONE THOUGHT THEY HAD TO ASK ME BEFORE THEY PLACED AN ORNAMENT. ANYWAY, A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL!

Anna is Silver! But in hearts they are both Gold!

2011-12-06T03:12:00.003-05:00

Anna just received a VERY pretigous award. She was nominated as Charles W. Flanagan's choice for The Miami Herald's Silver Knights Award in the Journalism category.

A little history about this award. There are about 14 different categories (English. foreign Language, Math, General Studies, Science, Music etc) Every public, private and charter school in both Broward and Miami Dade county can nominate one 12th grader in each category. BUT they do not have to recommend anyone if they do not think that they have anyone worthy.

It is not a disservice to Anna to say that as educators Drew and I have never seen anyone who has won or received honorable mention, but just the nomination alone is HUGE beyond belief.

Anna has to write up a charity project, go for an interview with educators from around the two counties, interviewers with The Miami Herald and (mom says) find a way to get this information addendum (ed) onto her University of Florida application.

As far as Flanagan High School goes, she will get her name on a gold plaque in the office and at the Senior Awards Ceremony she will be individually recognized for this accomplishment. At the same ceremony Katie will be recognized for her scholarship to Stetson.

We are not sure when this ceremony will take place, they are a little secretive about their dates...

The girls are tired, especially Anna as big yearbook deadlines are coming up. I think the holiday vacation will serve them well.

2011-12-06T03:09:00.000-05:00

Pretty Girls

2011-11-30T17:04:00.006-05:00

On the way to volunteer at the Angel Tree at the mall.

Thank You Aunties and Uncles!

2011-11-26T14:30:00.004-05:00

Auntie Shelagh sent our Mom and Dad birthday money from the Aunties and Uncles. Of course, Mom did the shopping, but we wanted to show you what we got and say thank you so much!
(we got shelves to put multi-color canvas bins in for college, we also got huge picture frames we are going to use to make collages of our friends, families and pets to have for college, the third thing we go was an iHome which is a portable iPod dock which is also an alarm clock plus it charges your phone!)

Love,

Anna and Katie

Turkey Tradition: A new Recipient

2011-11-24T11:36:00.003-05:00

HA! They got Anna and she thought she was in on the secret!

Ps. I thought for sure I was getting it.

Happy Thanksgiving filled with love and laughter and (cooked) turkey.

Happy Birthday, Happy Thanksgiving, Happy, Happy!

2011-11-24T10:38:00.026-05:00

The most important mail Katie has ever received

Do you think her hands are shaking?

Anna framed for Katie

What a huge accomplishment
We are so blessed

One Happy young lady!

Family Party

Katie gets a Barnes and Noble
gift card

Anna gets a hair roller thing
Jia now has Taylor Swift hair

Huge frames for a college collage

Anna's A Vest

Katie wanted to have combat boots
to wear with her pretty little dresses
No, I'm not kidding

Jia and Katie made a huge amount of the Parnham specialty
Anna just had to get her face in yet another picture

The production line

Jia was truly a big help
Katie and Jia worked together without one fight!

The work continues
People actually order these from us!

Jia has her own cow apron

Friend birthday at Olive Garden

Katie with her Stetson balloons

The party girls

Balloons: Stetson colors, University of Central Florida colors
and the hoped for
University of Florida balloons in the middle

Katie and friends

Anna and the yearbook girls

Going to the party

Lots of pictures, but a lot of things have been going on with us recently. I have just loaded all the pics.

We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, we have so much to be thankful for.

"I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving." Psalm- 69:30

University of Central Florida-Go Knights!

2011-11-22T07:37:00.005-05:00

Anna has been accepted into the University of Central Florida which is her second choice. Acceptances for University of Florida don't come out until February. We have decided to get into the mindset that Anna will be attending UCF and then if UF comes through plans will change.

University of Central Florida is a well respected university near Orlando. It has a huge hospitality college because it is so close to all the theme parks. There are a lot of job opportunities as well because of the same parks. They also have a Journalism department which is what Anna wants.

The good thing for us would be that Anna would only be about a half hour from Katie at Stetson. I am adding the link in case you want to take a look.

In all honestly, she has her heart set on University of Florida, but time will tell and this is a great second choice.

http://www.ucf.edu/

Give this a chance! Please....

2011-11-21T04:52:00.002-05:00

I tried to start a book blog but it didn't work out, anyway, I know some of you are readers, please come over to www.goodreads.com sign up (easy) and friend me. The site is great, has many good features and you can see what I have been reading this year. I met my New Years Goal of 100 books! (don't ever do this--too many, you won't enjoy them...) Just check it out, it is a great site, and I need some friends...lol.

Ps. Next, friend Birthday Party at Olive Garden- I didn't take the pics but it seemed to be a great success!

I Know an Author!

2011-11-21T04:25:00.005-05:00

I actually know someone who wrote a book!
It is called: Brainsteering: A Better Approach to Breakthrough Ideas
It was written by my friend from high school Shawn T. Coyne
(Can I mention his little brother was my high school sweetheart,
oops, I already did)

A New Jia-Ism Before the Birthday Festivities Begin!

2011-11-20T04:26:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Anna asked Jia to say "The Pledge of Allegiance" with her to see if she really knew it or was just mumbling it like a lot of the kids actually born in the US do :

Here is part of Jia's version:

"And to the Publix, for which it stands,
One Asian, under God, indivisible, with liberty, and justice for all..."

Guess her way is correct as well.

The End of Homecoming

2011-11-15T18:28:00.005-05:00

In the van, ready to roll!

Anna and Shannon have been friends since
7th grade

Both girls at the game!

Well, Homecoming week is officially over, they won their game, a good time was had by all at the party. They all went back to a friend's house and their parents made chocolate chip pancakes. Then the night owl (me) went to get Anna at 2:00 a.m. By far the latest she has ever stayed out, but there was a parent we knew with them at all times. Here are a few pics we didn't catch that came from Anna's camera.

Next up--Birthday Party at Olive Garden for lunch this weekend. I think there are 17 girls. Then Thanksgiving with Ellen next Thursday. We surely have much to be thankful for!

On Black Friday-the day after Thanksgiving we will start working 3-4 hour shifts at the Angel Tree in the mall, this will continue almost up until Christmas. You may remember we did this last year. It is sponsored by the Salvation Army, there is a Christmas tree in the mall with tags on it containing a child's age, sex, a wish for a toy and sizes for clothes. People chose a child-they become that child's angel, we write down all the information and the people bring the gifts back by a certain date. Katie has expanded her involvement this year to include shifts run by the Flanagan High School Honor Society. She LOVES doing this and we have to keep her from using all of her own money buying gifts for children!

I can't believe it is that time already! Trying to figure out birthday gifts/Christmas gifts that equal in number and price is no easy task. We are buying a lot of college things, but we have some fun stuff tucked away too. I don't think towels and sheets are going to cut it for Anna. Jia just cuts things out of magazines for me...When I say we may not be able to afford everything, she says "that's alright, Santa can."

Anna's Homecoming

2011-11-12T18:45:00.011-05:00

Our beautiful Anna

Katie Just says no!

Our family

Pretty Anna-Katie pictures

Editor-in-Chief
and
Managing Editor

The Gang! Lots of blue dresses because the theme was
Oceans 11
Personally, I don't believe in matching your clothes to the theme.
Kind of like an actress wearing a red dress on the red carpet.

I am posting just a few of Anna's homecoming pictures here. For the entire experience please visit me on facebook! the pictures are really good. The kids all went in a van both ways. All the girls had sore feet. Katie did not want to go so the two of us went shopping and out to dinner. One of the girls families had them all come home and made them chocolate chip pancakes. Every single kid in this group is really nice and the majority of them have been friends since elementary school.

THE HUGE NEWS

2011-11-11T03:48:00.007-05:00

Katie at the very moment she was telling her Nona the wonderful news!

I am sure that most of you know about Katie and Anna's HUGE news as we thought that it was worth a phone call, rather than just a blog post.

Katie heard on Tuesday that she was accepted to Stetson University with a $21,000 dollar scholarship! This was her first choice school and she was ecstatic to say the least.

Later on the exact same day, Anna heard that she was accepted to her second choice school, the University of Central Florida in Orlando, very close to Stetson. This is where she will go if she does not get accepted to the University of Florida, UF does not make their decisions until February.They are a very good school, but in my opinion, a little cocky, even though I love it there. (GO GATORS!) The public universities do not give out scholarships until January, so we won't know anything about Anna until then. Both girls have applied for numerous small scholarships as well so maybe they will hear about some of them before that time. as I write this we still have not heard if Bennyfoo, the pug has been accepted into Stetson as well. lol.

We thank our families and friends for supporting the girls and being excited right along with us: All the Parnhams, the Sardachuks, the Harltons, the Parkers, Erin, and Ellen. Your exuberant responses meant a lot to the girls...

Best Friends...

2011-11-11T03:32:00.005-05:00

These are our best friends or as the kids say (BFF"S) from Apollo. We used to get together for dinner once a month, but you know how that gets harder and harder. Drew and I have known these people for between 15-20 years. Ron, the man in the picture was my saving grace not only at Apollo, but he gave me my next job at Attucks Middle School and referred me to Walter C. Young. he also protected me from many bad moments in bad times. I owe him a lot.

Kathy, the woman in the black shirt with the sparkles is one of my best friends She is the one who planned Anna and Katie's baby shower.

Each of these people mean the world to me and have been good and supportive friends. Something to treasure....

Oh, and I cannot forget Ellen and my friend Sue, both of whom have saved me on many occasions.

For My Adoption Followers...

2011-11-10T09:15:00.012-05:00

Our Girls
My poor husband is the photographer

Jia-Li
excited to open birthday presents
from her Grandparents

Silly faces-thick as thiefs!

As I have said before, this blog was started as a way to share our "goings on" with far away relatives, but when I realized my view counter was huge, I realized that since I was linked to Wonderful Tina's Story of You I thought that a lot of my traffic must be people either thinking about adopting or in the process of adopting. Now, I am far from calling myself an expert in anything, but I do know quite a lot about domestic Special Needs adoptions and older,International Special Needs adoptions and I wanted to tell you not to be afraid.

Our first adoption was domestic. Twin girls. They were adopted through The Children's Home Society who work closely with the Department of Children and Family Services in our state. The description of these girls were scary, at a huge risk for developmental delays, no prenatal care and a birth mother who was less than desirable to put it mildly. They were also considered special needs because they were a family group and biracial. We were scared, but two weeks later we had the twins in our home.

Many years later (and I can't really say why except I felt a calling) I started looking at the listings of the Chinese adoption agencies, a picture of a very sad looking 3 year old came up and I knew immediately I had found my third daughter. My extended family were shocked to say the least, the only ones who weren't shocked were my immediate family, but being the special people they are our extended family rallied around us. By this point I had been diagnosed with Bipolar Disease and Agorophobia, but somehow (and I don't know how) I got on that airplane and flew to China. There were some hard days because of my condition, but I did it, and we are blessed, little Jia-Li (ye Ru Hui)who is now a part of our family. Jia had some medical conditions, but they were fixed and here is something you may not know, insurance companies cover preexisting conditions of adoptive children.

The twins that were at risk for so many delays are now 16 years old, graduating from high school a year early with honors and both have already been accepted into excellent colleges with scholarships. They are a joy, healthy and happy.

Their little sister is 8 years old, because of the culture shock we had her repeat kindergarten, she is now a happy, healthy 2nd grader who has some speech difficulties (nothing major) and is making "B's and "C's in class. One of the most endearing thing she ever said was "Mommy, I was born in China, but I am home now.

After this long story my point is this, yes there are obstacles but the joy you receive well outweighs the negatives. Do not be afraid. Do not go childless if you want them and can't have them biologically. To me all that means is that God has already chosen YOUR children and they are already out there waiting for you.

If you would like to talk to me about the process of adoption, costs, emotional tolls or anything else involved in the process don't hesitate to contact me at :

www.skyroxy@bellsouth.net

Lesa

Flanagan High School Spirit Day 2

2011-11-08T19:03:00.003-05:00

Today was Underwater Cartoon Day at Flanagan High school as a continuation of Homecoming Week. For those of you not up on Sponge Bob- Anna was Sponge Bob's snail, named Gary who meows like a cat. Katie made a concession and wore a fish shirt to school. Moat of you already know our HUGE news...but I will post later about that. God is so good!

NERD DAY!

2011-11-07T17:54:00.003-05:00

Hiya!

So today was the start of Homecoming Week and today was Nerd Day! I decided to show my school spirit and dress like a nerd! It was hilarious seeing everyone all dressed up and showing school spirit!

P.S. Please don't look at that picture of me sleeping for too long, I look horrendous. My mom decided to be sneaky and take a picture of me in my Nerd Day glasses while I was sleeping.

Love,

Anna :)

HOMECOMING WEEK SPIRIT DAYS

2011-11-07T15:39:00.002-05:00

This is Homecoming week at Flanagan High school. Every day they have a spirit day and today was Nerd Day. Katie is not really "into" this although she is wearing an "I Love Nerds " tee-shirt. Here is a picture of Anna and her friends. On Friday night there will be a Homecoming Dance. Anna just picked up her beautiful dress that had been being altered, she is still practicing how to walk in her super high heels. (If you click on the picture you can make it bigger.)

Halloween at Parnham South

2011-11-01T07:13:00.013-04:00

Katie hates Halloween and will have no part in it
I kind of agree

Everyone had their jobs to do. Jia and Dad were Trick or Treating, Anna was dressed up and doing her Statistics in the back of the car while handing out candy, and Katie and I were in the house watching The Living Dead (she was watching it, I was sitting next to her to make sure she wasn't scared.
The sad Lesa had to think that this was the last Halloween that we had all the "manpower" to do what we did. Next year, someone will take Jia trick or treating and someone will pass out candy. Sigh....
Jia chose her costume-she wanted to be a dentist ( a horribly scary costume for me) Why? I have no idea. The good thing was she could wear her Dr. scrubs from last hear, she had a mask, goggles and a little mirror that Drew brought home from school and she was good to go. Jia doesn't really like candy. The Chinese side of her would rather have some noodles and soup, so she gave everything away to her sisters and her dad (okay, I may have had a kit kat or two).

Happy All Saints Day-In Mexico Dios De los Muertos sp?)

Bits and Pieces

2011-10-31T17:02:00.005-04:00

Sister love (Anna has a skull hand in her hair)

One of Katie and Anna's best friends, Katrina is running for
Homecoming Queen
Katrina's last name is Fins
The theme of the Homecoming is "Make a wish Under the Sea"
She has the cutest name to win!

The Back: You Need fins under the Sea

I will be posting Halloween pictures later tonight, although at this point things look really ugly: It's pouring outside, Jia is throwing a temper tantrum, her costume isn't ready, and I have a terrible weather headache. Drew just found out he has the honor of taking Jia trick or treating...it just keeps getting better and better.

These are just a few pictures of the girls to tide you over until then...lol

Beautiful Girls

2011-10-29T21:43:00.001-04:00

Friday was a Teacher's Plannng Day so the girls decided to have a Beauty Day. All the girls went, Mom, Katie and Jia got their hair done, after everyone was finished we went for lunch.

College? What about Senior Year!

2011-10-21T14:46:00.006-04:00

Love to all who have commented on my recent sad events

I was worried about the finances of college, but I think the only one who warned me about the costs of senior year was my sister-in-law Shelagh. Oh my goodness! You plan for things, thinking you have everything covered and them something else comes up and blindsides you when you aren't looking. And everything we have is x two.

The next event is homecoming, Katie has chosen not to go, she is a bit of a loner and shy at big events so she has opted out, maybe a little Mom and daughter movie might be good?

Anna's first pair of high heels leave her just shy of 6' tall, I am making her wear them all over the house so she knows how to wear them. Anna's group of girlfriends (no dates) have rented a "party bus" this is because the parents did not want the girls driving to east Ft. Lauderdale, and the girls did not want to be seen showing up with their parents. A good compromise.

Jia was quite excited this morning. She was going to see a play and a museum in Coral Springs just north of us. Her teacher must have briefed them as she came home from school and told us that a play was like watching a 3-D movie but with live people, I guess that is one way to explain it. She was very happy to have her new class shirt, a sparkly pink headband, and knowing they were going to ride in a charter bus.

I thank the Sardachuk clan for the wonderful emails, I am still here, just a little down in the dumps over recent events in my life, I will respond.

I hope all of you have a wonderful weekend.

If I Could Turn Back Time...

2011-10-18T03:30:00.003-04:00

As of tonight all SAT's have been taken, all essays have been written, tons of scholarship forms have been filled out and ALL APPLICATIONS have been sent to the colleges of K & A's choice. Now we wait...

FACEBOOK QUOTE FROM TERRI FOSTER

2011-10-17T10:07:00.003-04:00

Father God you are the GREATEST Father any of us can have. You listen to all our cries and answer our prayers. God, we want to say to you today, Thank You. Thank you for your healing touch on the sick and for holding us when we are scared. Most of all, thank you for your Son Jesus. In Jesus Name, Amen. -From Terri Foster's Facebook page.

Terri...

2011-10-17T02:49:00.006-04:00

For those who have read my blog for a long time, you know that I went to boarding school from 9th grade through 12th grade. You also know that we were kids that weren't just friends, we were family.

Today I found out one of our family members died too soon. Terri Foster was a kind, gentle person. She was a year behind me in school and when it seemed like everyone at FCA reconnected on Facebook, we had a second chance to let each other know how much we cared, how much those years meant to us. Terri was on facebook, a lot of times her posts were beautiful messages of inspiration. Tonight a lot of grown up kids are hurting, one of us is gone.

Godspeed Terri...

Sweet Bear

2011-10-15T09:16:00.003-04:00

Bear was from the Humane Society. He had a sign on his cage that read "Why doesn't anyone want me?" He graced us with his company for the past 7 years. Today 17 year old bear had to leave us. We will miss him and love him always. The hardest part of having animals.

Katie's Panoramic Group

2011-10-13T15:47:00.005-04:00

As I mentioned in my last post it was Senior Panoramic Day
The kids got in groups, either friends or organizations,
Made their own tee-shirts and sat together
The results will be a huge picture of the whole class.
If you click this picture it will get bigger.
Katie is the "B"

In "You wana b 1-2"
As in 2012...

This Week in the 12th Grade!

2011-10-09T19:10:00.008-04:00

The girl who made the shirts for Katie's group did a great job!
tie-died, painted, printed the pattern on fabric paper
and sewed it on all 8 shirts all by herself!

As always a silly pose from Anna

This week Katie and Anna had their Senior Panoramic Picture. This is a huge picture of the whole senior class. Most of the kids apply to appear in the pictures in groups. Some are clubs and organizations and others are just groups of friends. Both Katie and Anna chose to pose with groups of their friends.

Katie had 8 people in her group they made BEAUTIFUL tee shirts that spelled out "U WANT 2 B 1 2 (class of 2012)

Anna had 8 people in her group as well. Their shirts spelled out WE (heart)2012.

Anna took a picture of a panoramic from an older book so you get a sense of what they are doing.

We're Hoping to Roll Alabama Right Out of The Swamp

2011-10-01T19:47:00.004-04:00

Tough, tough game, HUGE rivalry. Alabama is ranked #3, Florida is ranked #12. Looks like I'll be spending my evening with my face in a pillow...

Katie and I are exhausted...

2011-10-01T19:42:00.005-04:00

Just take a look at the pictures, no more words need to be written...

I Am Truly Blessed By Three (and their Dad too)

2011-09-28T22:44:00.006-04:00

50-me?

The BIG Girls

2011-09-22T14:43:00.005-04:00

The girls were on the way to get katie's senior pics taken. They also took some of them together that I think you are really going to like. We got the proofs back in two days! (they are nearing the end of the time limits for the yearbooks) Anna is uploading the shots on facebook right now.
xoxo

It's That Time Again!

2011-09-20T12:42:00.002-04:00

The Gators are looking pretty good this year. They will be looking even better next year if they accept my baby girl!

Things keep getting better for Katie!

2011-09-16T08:46:00.009-04:00

Katie's no braces sweet smile!

up close (okay, I made her do that)

Last Katie with braces picture
on the way to her Stetson interview

Jia ready for Dolphin Day
at Silver Palms Elementary
(we even found the pants!)
Gotta love Target

typical getting ready for school morning
Notice Anna's new haircut in the background

Jia throwing a touchdown pass
Sign her up!

Yesterday I took Katie to get her braces off!!!!! She is so excited. She has waited for so long. Now she can get her senior pictures taken and we can send them off, we have been holding on the Anna's so we could send them all at the same time. Plus we are going to ask them to do a few of the girls together. She is all smiles, she "stole" my Crest White strips and I almost got her to make a funny face. She looks beautiful, then again I think she looked beautiful with the braces. Today is Dolphin's Day at Jia's school. If you are a long time reader of this blog you may remember that we waited until the night before last year and couldn't find anything. This year I remembered, we found them on sale (probably because of the long sleeves) in the summer, so she was all set. Hope you all have a nice weekend. Happy kids always make our weekend happy!

To Our Family and Dear Friends!

2011-09-12T04:10:00.003-04:00

Katie, Drew and I are traveling to Stetson University for Katie's interview today. Think about her. She is so fabulous, but you already knew that.

We Love You,

Katie, Lesa and Drew

NO WORDS...

2011-09-11T00:02:00.002-04:00

INDEPENDENCE DAY AT SILVER PALMS

2011-08-30T15:41:00.002-04:00

Today was Independence Day at Jia's school. Until today nervous parents were allowed to go into the school and eat breakfast with their child and get them to their rooms. This is mostly to ease the minds of Kindergarten and First grade Mama's and Daddy's.

Jia has been fine, and doesn't want anyone to walk her in. "that's for babies." She also eats breakfast at home and brings her lunch (healthier).

However, Jia joined in on Independence Day as everyone was asked to wear red, white and blue. She is still loving school, her teacher and life!

Jia's Scooter

2011-08-29T08:09:00.006-04:00

Well, we are off to a great start with school. Jia loves, loves, loves Mrs. Flores, and she says she likes this year better than first grade, so that is positive.

The big girls are getting back into the swing of things. Katie is secretary for Invisible Children and secretary/treasurer for the National Honor Society. She has meetings after school every day of the week. Ms. Organization is updating and rearranging everything the officers did last year. She has done everything she needs to do to send her application to Stetson, she is waiting for one teacher recommendation and then she sends it off. Drew and I will be traveling with her on September 12th when she has her personal interview.

Anna is already busy working on the yearbook. They won a silver award last year and this year she is going for the gold. She JUST finished her college essay this weekend and was very grumbly (is that a word?) while she was doing it. UF doesn't have the personal touch that Stetson has so she will not have an interview, I wish she would but they are so swamped (no pun intended) with applications they could never interview everyone. Say a prayer for Anna the school is horribly difficult to get into.

To my cousin Kathie in Pennsylvania--so glad you didn't get the brunt of the hurricane and everyone is safe and sound.

The pictures are of Jia trying out her skateboard, she is a little cautious about skateboards, bikes, skates etc. (even though she has them all) but she came home from school last week determined to use her skateboard and learn how to jump rope (which her sisters will have to teach her, it's hard being almost 50 and not fall flat on your face jumping rope.)

THE BEST PICTURES EVER!

2011-08-26T15:07:00.003-04:00

I LOVE THESE PICTURES! THEY WERE TAKEN BY MY WONDERFUL SISTER-IN-LAW SHANNON DURING THE GIRLS TRIP TO CALGARY. WHAT A GREAT LOOKING GROUP OF COUSINS! NONA AND GRANDPA ARE SURE TO LOVE THESE!

BACK TO SCHOOL DAY 2 SCARY!

2011-08-24T11:04:00.004-04:00

Anna drove everyone to school today. She is a very good driver, but still, I was scared. She was very calm, and drove them again today. I make her call me when she gets there, and right before she leaves. This growing up stuff is hard on Moms!

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

2011-08-22T21:14:00.001-04:00

Jia making a kiss and showing she is in Second Grade

Second Grade Jia-very excited
The day lived up to her high expectations

Katie contemplating her future

My fashion queen

Anna and her unique style
(I'm not too sure I like the holey pants,
but they are the trend)

Anna loves to strike posses
Her shoes are really cute, they have little
polka dots that you can't see

The Women of Parnham South
ready for the new year!

My Stetson Beauty

My Gator Girl
And yes, her hair is purple again
only the underneath part this time
these small rebellions are fine because she is
such a wonderful young lady
(plus she always asks for permission first)

My little cutie pie

Mom and Jia going in to Silver Palms Elementary

This is Anna's furry giraffe bookbag
She wanted Nona to see it

Well, I didn't know if I would cry today or not, but we actually had kind of a silly morning. Jia was bouncing off the walls she was so excited. I tricked Katie and Anna by wearing a Stetson University t-shirt and when we took pictures I posed with Katie first, then pulled that shirt off and I had my University of Florida shirt on for Anna. Speaking of fashion, you will see by the pictures each of the girls have a totally different style.

Jia's Meet And Greet

2011-08-20T11:28:00.004-04:00

Katie, Natalie Flores (Mrs. Flores) and Jia
A great picture!

No, this is not a peace sign
this is Jia's 2nd grade sign

On Friday, August 19th Silver Palms Elementary had their teacher "Meet and Greet" They go to school, find their classes, find their desks, look around the classroom and meet their teachers.
Jia was so excited, she left a note on the kitchen island (where the "big" people leave notes) here it is: "Wake me up becaues I mite be sleep or awake becaues I be in my room becaues this is Jia handwite becaus it is not Mom handwite"
The greatest thing is not only did we get the teacher we asked for and she is wonderful. She is the teacher Katie had for 2nd and 3rd grade. Natalie Flores has become a family friend, and Katie and I even attended her baby shower. I have kept in touch with her through the years and now she will be little Jia's teacher! When we went into the class, Natalie had photos of all the classes she had ever taught on her wall, and there was my little Kate grinning in two of them. Jia was very pleased, she sits in the front row, she has her books in her desk and we have bought all her supplies. She is ready to go!

12th Grade pt 1

2011-08-20T11:12:00.005-04:00

Anna and Katie were both in charge of different aspects of the "Freshman Invasion"
Anna and her friend Katrina manned the Award Winning Yearbook booth and spoke with freshmen who were interested in being in the Journalism class.
Katie was speaking to freshmen about the goal of becoming National Honor Society members.

The girls' schedules for the first half of the year:

Anna: 1- A.P. Statistics 2-Anatomy & Physiology Honors 3- A.P. English Literature
4- Journalism 4 Honors (Yearbook)

Katie: 1-Biology 2 Honors 2- Teacher Assistant 4 3- A.P. Microeconomics 4-Journalism Honors

In their A.P. classes they have a chance of getting college credit if they pass the exit test but it is quite difficult. They still get a 6.00 out of a 4.00 system if they get an A in the class.

2011 Parnham Girl Fashion Show

2011-08-20T10:49:00.020-04:00

The girls love to do a "back to school" fashion show for their Mom and Dad. I am proud to say they are bargain shoppers and are not swayed by labels (as I was when I was their age.) The big girls have a list of each outfit they are wearing for the first week, and I am pretty sure Katie made one for Jia too.

The big girls bought most of their thing in Canada, but they are also famous Target shoppers...

With Jia (as I used to do with Katie and Anna) I went online to Ebay and bought her brand new, with the tags still on, Gymboree clothes at a fraction of the cost. (I know if you are not a shopper, your eyes are glazing over right about now...)

FLORIDA COUSINS LOVE THEIR CALGARY COUSINS!

2011-08-17T13:10:00.018-04:00

MAYBE THIS COULD BE OUR CHRISTMAS PICTURE THIS YEAR?

JIA WAS BORN IN THE CHINESE YEAR OF THE GOAT
AND BOY CAN SHE BE A GOAT SOMETIMES!

THREE LITTLE PIGGIES--MY GIRLS
I CAN'T EVEN GO IN THEIR ROOMS
ANNA AND KATIE KNOCKED ALL THE
NEATNESS RIGHT OUT OF JIA!

I am going to let Anna caption these later on. But this was a giant corn maze where they had so much fun! I am hoping that they have some other pictures on the cameras but these are really cute. The girls always love hanging out with their cousins.

Such a Big Heart!

2011-08-03T04:53:00.003-04:00

Katie just finished volunteering at the Dan Marino Hospital Summer Camp. She was there 5 days a week from 7:30 a.m until 5:30 p.m. This camp is for kids who have mental handicaps. She worked with the hardest group, mainly non-verbal Autistic children. She didn't need anymore service hours to graduate with the silver cord for community service, but she did earn 181 hours and a beautiful letter of recommendation. We are so proud of her and her amazingly good heart.

In Search of Higher Ground

2011-07-30T00:31:00.002-04:00

This picture is from Life Magazine pictures online. It is a picture of the city of Hubei where Jia was born.

A Short Visit With Uncle Grant

2011-07-24T20:03:00.001-04:00

We were lucky enough to have lunch with Grant on his way through town, he is traveling to the Dominican Republic on a mission trip. God Bless!

Dad's Birthday Pt. 2

2011-07-22T22:17:00.006-04:00

Dad opening gifts with his cool Driver's Ed shirt on

Dad opening up his Tim Tebow Jockey undershirts

Drew with some Gator shirts

New shoes!

This is the morning of Drew's birthday. He is opening his gifts.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!

2011-07-18T16:51:00.008-04:00

Today is Drew's birthday, but since it is a weekday and he had to do Driver's Ed, the girls and I decided to take him out last night. We went to Bahama Breeze and it rained so hard that the metal roof was leaking all over the place, but we had a fun time.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO UNCLE DOUG FROM THE GIRLS AND YOUR FLORIDA FAMILY!

The Land of the Free & the Home of the Brave!

2011-07-07T16:12:00.006-04:00

Jia's 4th of July. Drew took the kids over to Ellen's house for a great view of the fireworks that they shoot off a barge in the ocean.

Ellen has been very sick with an eye problem. She's doesn't really know what it is (maybe an infection) but she is absolutely miserable and can't even see to watch tv or read. She has been to see specialists and is hoping it gets better quickly as she has a trip to Ireland planned. Still, she braved the fireworks for a while with the family. We love her and hate that she is feeling so bad.

Smarty Pants!

2011-07-03T05:18:00.005-04:00

Our girls just got their first college credits! Both Katie and Anna passed their Advanced Placement English Exams!

Most students do not pass any of these exams as they make it virtually impossible. (they still get high credits-a 6.0 on a 4.0 scale) but if the teacher doesn't teach EXACTLY what is on the exam and the kids don't study like crazy, it's not going to happen. Congratulations to Mrs. Carole Sheppard, their teacher, Katie's mentor, and in my opinion, the best teacher they ever had.

I went to UF again!

2011-06-26T18:11:00.019-04:00

Me at the Bookstore/Welcome Center

My momma and me

My daddy and me

So as you all know my mom met Tim Tebow and got his book signed, she gave me the book and told me to take pics with it by his statue :D

This is where the College of Journalism and Communications is located.

The Reitz Union is where the cafeteria and the Bookstore are located. I visited here often :P

The stadium!

*chomp chomp* A picture with me and Bull Gator, outside of Ben Hill stadium

This stadium is huge!

Me by the sign "Home of the FLORIDA GATORS"

A little fun fact-- This is where Gatorade was created :D

Soo I was back at UF this summer for the Summer Journalism Institute again! I honestly had so much more fun this year than last year and I learned more too. I think it was because I knew what to expect and I had already had a year of editorial experience so I understood the class more. I took the yearbook editors class again and thankfully the yearbook critiques were nicer but there were still some that irked me.

June 18th

This is the day I arrived at UF. After I checked in my mom, dad and I decided to walk to the Bookstore and the stadium. This was a big mistake! It was sooooooooo hot and we didnt really anticipate how long it would take to walk to these places so by the time we got to the stadium our feet were hurting. Anyways, I got two shirts and a bracelet from the bookstore and my mom and dad got shirts too. After the dreadful walk through the campus we went back to Beaty Towers, which is where I was staying for the 6 day institute, and I said my goodbyes and met my roommates. At 4:00 we met in the common room and walked to Weimer Hall, where we had class for the first time. Then an hour later we went to Gator Dining, which is not that bad but when you eat it for 6 days it's quite annoying. (But it did fulfill my love for crushed ice and french fries!) After dinner we had an activity where we had to get a partner, then get 2 more partners, then get 4 more partners, after we found our partners we had to go around and introduce ourselves. This quickly turned into a big conversation about tv shows and what show we liked best. All in all, the first day was exciting!

June 19th

This day was good. Meredith Cochie, the camp director, always gives a lecture about different things. These lectures are hilarious! She is sooo funny and I honestly cant remember what this talk was about because I was laughing so hard. She had to have been one of my favorite speakers, even though her talk really had nothing to do with journalism. Then we had our usual schedule with another guest speaker, professor John Freeman, who talked to us about photography. Tonight was also the night for our movie, we watched Easy A, which is a hilarious movie!

June 20th

A day like any other. Breakfast, class, lecture, lunch, lecture, class, dinner, check-in. Nothing to special. Our one lecture for the day was a camp director, named Steve Johnson, who went to the camp and immediately after graduating high school he got an internship at the St.Pete Times and then after college he worked for ESPN. Oh and today was also the day that my entire family went and met Tim Tebow. I. was. jealous.

June 21st

A looooooooooooooooooooooooong day. One of the longest and it included breakfast, class, lecture, lunch, lecture, class, q&a, dinner, and check-in. We had one lecture this day that was my absolute favorite! Holly Gibbs, an RA for the camp and a graphic designer for a travel agency, made a powerpoint with all of these amazing design tips and layout ideas. This presentation completely changed my perspective on layouts. After this amazing day I went to my dorm room and sketched all of these ideas for my school's yearbook next year and I was so excited after all of this.

June 22nd

The second long day. We had 3 lectures on this day and the most interesting was Kristin Harmel, a correspondent for People magazine. I want to be a magazine journalist so I was interested in this lecture. I remembered what she was going to talk about so it was kind of boring at times but I found her lecture interesting anyways. This was also the day of our SJI party which was kind of boring because no one really stayed for it so my roommate Natalie and I went for a walk. We went farther than I expected and at one point I was nervous because it had gotten really dark and we were on the other side of campus, far from Beaty. But we had fun getting to know each other better.

June 23rd

The last day. This was a presentation day and the spread I had been working on in yearbook was complete so it went in with all the other spreads from my class and was shown to the entire camp. These presentations are my favorite part because I like seeing what everyone was working on for the entire 6 day camp. At 12:00 my dad came to pick me up and we went to the stadium and bookstore again and then we left.

I had so much fun for these 6 days and I enjoyed it so much more than last year. I am really excited for next year's yearbook class because I have so many ideas.

I am fully determined to get into UF and be a gator.

GO GATORS!

Timmy Comes To Miami

2011-06-26T17:38:00.008-04:00

Meeting Tim

Tim reading Jia's letter

Tim shaking my hand

I think this is Tim reading Jia-s letter again
The back of my head-formally known as Miami hair, just keeps getting
bigger and bigger!

Okay, he's handsome too!

The autograph, which now goes to Gainesville so Anna
can get some strategic poses

We waited in a 1,000 person line in the horrible humidity of Miami's trendiest bookstore (Books and Books) to meet and have books signed by Tim Tebow. Everyone inline was either Gatored-out or Broncoized (made up my own words) way more Gators. It was an EXTREME struggle for me as it was like waiting in line for a Disney World line. Twice my legs went out, thank goodness for my wonderful (and strong) husband.

Ok, so we all know this post is going to be soooo biased. I just love this boy, such great values, the fact that he is a phenomenal athlete only touches the surface of this boy. He is devout Christian that is not ashamed to let the world know, his Father and Mother are missionaries in the Philippines and Tim was actually born there. he goes there in the summer for mission trips.

When we did meet him Jia had written him a letter "Dear Tim Tebow: I was born in China, but I am home now. I am going to Alligator College, I love you, Ji-Lia Parnham. He stopped to read her letter, tell her it was awesome and did the "Gator Chomp" with her, then he complemented me on my t-shirt which said "Gators for Broncos" He said "I've never seen that one yet". He stopped to take pictures of everyone, unfortunately Katie didn't really have a great camera spot, but it was worth it all.

Said it before, I'll say it again, read this book! It is called "Through my Eyes" and no, I don't get any profit from this endorsement...

TAKING MY BABY GATOR TO UF

2011-06-26T17:07:00.010-04:00

Anna and Mom in front of the Bull Gator
which is right outside of the football field

New monument to Florida's three Heisman trophy winners
Tim Tebow, Steve Spurrier and Danny Wuerffel
How Many colleges can say that???)

Can you tell I love Timmy Tebow?

Okay, so I really do

Florida Field also known as "The Swamp"
or
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

Silly picture of Anna in the Student Union

Anna and her Daddy in the Student Union

Look how much taller Anna is than me,
she is still my baby girl though....

On June 18th Drew and I took Anna to her Journalism Institute at the University of Florida in Gainesville. (318 miles away) We went and came back in one day which took about 10 hours because we didn't want to leave Katie and Jia home alone.

You'll remember she went to this Institute last year on scholarship, she was not eligible for a scholarship two years in a row, so thank you Nona and Grandpa. This was a wonderful educational experience for Anna.

I am going to post some pictures that I took before we left, then of course the Tim Tebow meeting in Miami, then the pictures Anna took while she was there. It looks as though our life revolves around football, but that is truly not the case. Tim Tebow is a legend in Florida, and University of Florida is THE college to go to with a huge football program....

What a Week!

2011-06-23T04:15:00.002-04:00

I have so many things, and so many pictures to share that it is a little overwhelming to me, especially as the time frame was all kind of lumped together...as for now, in is 4:15 a.m. (can't sleep) and we will be going to bring home our little Gator Girl in a few hours(5 hours there and 5 hours back...yuck) Anna really wanted me to come both ways, so I grinned and bared it, with the help of some calming medicine. I missed her so much, I don't know what I'll do when she goes for good...Be back with all the news and all the pics soon.

HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY JIA! XOXOXO

2011-06-15T20:16:00.013-04:00

Jia making all her wishes come true

Sponge Bob Cake

Jia and Katie at the Museum of Science and Discovery

Pretty Presents from Nona and Grandpa

Jia at the museum of Science and Discovery

Jia fixing her puppy in her new Vet station
She also got a Build a Bear credit card
so she can have more animals to take care of.
She also has her Dr. scrubs Halloween costume
(she found that and put it on later)

Our three miracle children
In Jesus' name we thank YOU

GOD

Random picture: You may think this is a rainy day in South Florida
Instead it is the Everglades burning 5 miles from our home, complete with choking burning
taste and ash flying around our heads...

Jia's birthday was assigned to her by the government of China-June 18. (tucked right in there with Fathers Day insuring that I will never have an Anniversary again-June 20 we are at 18 years!!)
Drew and I will be traveling to Gainesville (Go Gators!) on the actual day, so we celebrated yesterday. Here are some pictures of her perfect day!

JIA'S BIRTHDAY PT. 1 NONA & GRANDPA'S BOX

2011-06-13T18:06:00.009-04:00

WELL, the festivities have begun-Jia wants a 4 day dream birthday. I think we may have two days. Today the exciting box from Nona and Grandpa arrived. I don't know who was more excited, Jia or Drew (because of the candy).

Jia's actual birthday is June 18th, but since Drew and I are taking Anna to U of F on that day, so our celebration is tomorrow. (I think I may have mentioned this before.)

Jia has high expectations for the day, here they are: Imax Theater: Born to Be Wild, Science Museum, Subway sandwiches and then straight to dinner, at that point we will be coming home, were she needs a minimum of 18 presents, a white cake and ice cream for Dad (because he doesn't like cake). So she has a busy day planned out, I hope we meet her expectations. Coming up: Jia's birthday pt. 2.

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL!

2011-06-10T01:39:00.004-04:00

"SUMMER'S HERE, I'M FOR THAT, GOT MY RUBBER SANDALS, GOT MY STRAW HAT!"
-JAMES TAYLOR

NOT ONE BIT OF SADNESS FOR THE PASSING SCHOOL YEAR FROM ANY OF MY GIRLS. I SHED SOME TEARS, MAINLY BECAUSE MY TWO BIG GIRLS WILL BE SENIORS NEXT YEAR.

BUT I AM THRILLED BEYOND BELIEF THAT THEY WILL BE HOME WITH ME ALL SUMMER. I CAN DO SO MANY MORE THINGS IF ONE OF THEM ARE WITH ME. THE SUMMER IS FULL OF PLANS,

NEXT WEEK ALONE: JIA'S BIRTHDAY (HER PLAN: THE IMAX THEATER AND THE SCIENCE MUSEUM, AFTER WHICH SHE WANTS LUNCH AT THE ATTACHED SUBWAY.)

THEN THE TRIP TO THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA TO DROP ANNA OFF AT HER JOURNALISM INSTITUTE, WE WILL GO UP AND BACK IN ONE DAY (ABOUT 10 HOURS, ANNA WILL STAY FOR 6 DAYS.) KATIE DOES NOT WANT TO GO AND SHE WILL BE STAYING HERE WITH JIA AND THE NEIGHBORS) AND I DO NOT LIKE TO BE OVERNIGHT ANYWHERE BUT HOME, HENCE, A LONG DAY OF DRIVING.

KATIE AND ANNA WILL START THEIR VOLUNTEER WORK AT THE DAN MARINO CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL SUMMER CAMP. THIS LASTS ALL SUMMER, THEY WILL BE WORKING WITH A TEACHER AND AUTISTIC, DOWN'S SYNDROME AND ASPERGER'S CHILDREN.

ANNA IS STILL A LITTLE NERVOUS THAT THIS MAY NOT BE THE THING FOR HER, IF SHE IS UNCOMFORTABLE, SHE WILL HELP HER DAD WITH HIS DRIVERS ED CLASSES FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE.

WE'LL LET YOU KNOW WHAT IS ON THE CALENDAR FOR NEXT WEEK....

WHITE HOT!

2011-06-06T19:49:00.001-04:00

WE ARE FEELIN' THE HEAT!

A Wonderful Visit

2011-05-29T16:19:00.003-04:00

We have some special people in our lives, and the girls got to visit with two of them this weekend. The girls had Mama Rita and Daddy Mike fostered Anna and Katie until they were 6 months old. They provided them with so much love and care, and we cherish the fact that they remain part of Anna and Katie's life, and hopefully will always be.

ANNA'S NEW ADVENTURE

2011-05-26T15:48:00.004-04:00

Anna is driving alone. She got her license today and she is thrilled. She is a careful and excellent driver.

Senior Awards Night-Beautiful Girls

2011-05-24T18:15:00.015-04:00

Katie and Anna are helping out at tonight's Senior Awards Night. Anna is there to sell yearbooks and Katie is there as a representative of National Honor Society as an usher.
Both of the girls bought new dresses on their own and picked them out themselves. I think they did a great choice.

The girls have a very packed schedule in the next few weeks. They just completed Drivers Ed, where the teacher said that Anna was the best driver and when she was calling out perfect scores she said "and of course, the Parnham girls." Anna has an appointment to get her regular licence. She is thrilled, Katie has no interest in driving.

Anna and Katie are also ushers for Graduation through the National Honor Society. Although it is not the end of the year, What a year it has been for the twins! Yesterday I got to speak to their Honor's English teacher. Katie has had her for 3 years and has also has been her Teacher's Assistant. She raved about Katie and has nominated her for several scholarships. Anna is also eligible for (hopefully) scholarships through Journalism. Both of them have already reached the number of service hours that will give them the prestigious silver cord award when they graduation next year.

READ ALL ABOUT IT!!!

2011-05-22T22:28:00.003-04:00

IT IS HERE! ANNA'S PRIDE AND JOY!!!! I can't tell you how much my little girl put into this book, it was a work of love and she never stopped working on this masterpiece all year.

I don't know how many of you know this, but it is almost unheard of for an 11th grader to be Editor-in-Chief of a yearbook for any school, let alone a school with a population of 3,241. This yearbook is unlike any I have ever seen before. I hope that a lot of you get to see this.

Anna will be attending the University of Florida Summer Journalism Institute for the second time this summer and she will be Editor-in-Chief again next year.

Congratulations and love to our little girl!

Kate Checking Her List and Checkng it Twice

2011-05-19T21:05:00.002-04:00

As next years Treasurer of Flanagan High School's National Honor Society, Katie made the following plans for her to chair at her school next year at school it makes me tired just thinking about doing so much, let alone being in charge!

Teens for Jeans (her own project from last year)
Angel Tree
All Candy Sales
Multi-Cultural festival
SchoolSupplies drive
Human Society Drive

IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER AND BETTER...

2011-05-18T17:33:00.005-04:00

Katie: Flanagan Social Studies Student of the Year

Katie and her best friend Yunsoo

LAST NIGHT WAS A BIG NIGHT FOR KATIE. KATIE WON SOCIAL STUDIES STUDENT OF THE YEAR FOR THE WHOLE SCHOOL! SHE WORKS SO HARD AND SHE IS SUCH A GREAT KID.

Happy Mothers Day!

2011-05-09T19:38:00.011-04:00

What sweet and thoughtful kids I have. They made my day special from beginning to end. On the Friday before Mother's Day weekend Publix collaborates with Jia's school, they give each of the kids a heart shaped cake and let them decorate them. Jia put hers in the second fridge and was very proud to have a secret present on Sunday. She also made me a sweet card, it was made by the teacher with blanks to fill in about their Moms. Here is hers"

My Mom: My Mom has blue eyes and brown/blond hair. My Mom weighs _____ pounds and is _____years old. (love those blanks, what a smart kid!) My Mom is prettiest when she wears dresses. I like it when she cooks spagyies (spaghetti). She likes me to help her clean. My Mom likes to go to the mall. I love my mom very much and I know she loves me, too. Happy Mother's Day to a SPECIAL mom. Then she wrote "you are the best Mom, I will love you forever"
That's a keeper! (each girl has a plastic box with all of their sweetest papers and artwork.)

Lets not forget my big girls, they used some psychology on my presents--gift cards, which makes me have to leave the house. How smart is that? I got a card for Kohls, Bahama Breeze and my favorite place--Barnes and Noble! They also made me my favorite dinner and we had Jia's cake for dessert. A perfect day from some perfect kids. I am so very blessed. Thanks to God for knowing that these were the right children for me.

P.S. I forgot to mention another surprise from one of my sweet girls, if you looked at Facebook yesterday Anna's status and profile picture was a picture of me holding Anna and Katie as babies and it said, "Happy Mother's Day to the BEST mom in the world!! If it wasn't for her (and my dad) my sisters and I would not be here right now! I love you sooooo much mom!"

Random Family Pics

2011-05-04T11:16:00.011-04:00

The pool is still a little cool, Anna chickened out.

Drew is determined to get Jia swimming this summer
She is nervous so it is much harder
than Katie and Anna

Getting Ready for school
Mom does "piggies"

Anna Fashion Show Pt.1
(we decided to give the girls an allowance
Anna spent hers immediately,
Katie's is stashed in that mysterious bank account she now has a debit card for

The back of Anna's vest, very pretty

Going out with the family!!!!!

I can't tell if this is a real phone or not
But on Saturday Anna, Jia and I did some errands
Katie and Drew did others.
When Jia's Dad didn't come home until about an hour after us
she called him three times.

Bear and Bella
They look like Siamese (cat) twins

I have a whole lot of pictures on the camera and I thought I would share, no particular order. The girls are counting down until the end of the school year, and I am too, it will be great to have them around.

We have a very busy summer ahead. Most importantly Anna and Katie have to visit more colleges. They both have their hearts set on one, but I told them they need to apply to at least 4.
Drew is taking classes to become a Drivers Ed Instructor and may be given a class at the middle part of the summer. Speaking of Drivers Ed, both girls are in the class now-Anna has been driving for almost a year and drives better than we do. Katie has no interest whatsoever.

Anna will be going to University of Florida for her Journalism conference again, Katie is desperately pursuing a summer job, and then of course a trip to Calgary.

The funniest thing is that Anna and Katie are both taking their Physical Education class this summer ON THE COMPUTER! this I have to see.

Little Jia has plans to learn how to swim, go shopping and plan her birthday party which I think we will move up a little earlier so she can have it before school is over.

2011-05-03T12:25:00.000-04:00

"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that" - Martin Luther King

WHERE WERE YOU?

2011-05-02T09:59:00.007-04:00

(WARNING: COULD BE THE LONGEST POST EVER) Albeit for totally different reason I just made a list of defining moments in my life for my daughters. Those things good and bad that people say you will always remember where you were when they happened, some of mine included:

1. The bittersweet-the funeral of John F. Kennedy. I was only as old as John-John, but my Dad sat me on the couch and then sat next to me and said "it's important for you to know you saw this."
2. The first man on the moon.
3.The explosion of the space shuttle Challenger-I was watching during my lunch break at school and was so proud that the first teacher in space was aboard.
4. The death of Princess Diana, someone I identified with. although she was a princess, and I was just a regular person, our younger lives were a little similar, and we had some of the same insecurities.

AND OF COURSE: 9/11/01:
I WAS TEACHING MY DROP OUT PREVENTION CLASS, MOSTLY BOYS, THE MAJORITY OF THEM HAD BEEN TO JAIL AT LEAST ONCE. I WAS SHOWING THEM A VIDEO ABOUT THE LOST BOYS OF THE SUDAN. THE VIDEO ENDED AND I POPPED IT OUT JUST IN TIME TO SEE THE PLANE HIT THE SECOND TOWER. THE ROOM WAS SILENT, ALTHOUGH I KNEW SOME OF MY STUDENTS DIDN'T KNOW THE EXACT SIGNIFICANCE. WE WERE IMMEDIATELY INSTRUCTED BY THE PRINCIPAL TO TURN THE TV OFF.

MY SCHOOL WAS 45 MINUTES FROM HOME AND THE FIRST THING I COULD THINK OF IS-WE HAVE TO GO GET ANNA AND KATIE, I CALLED DREW AND HE CALMED ME DOWN (FOR THE MOMENT) WHO KNEW WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN? IT SEEMED LIKE THE END OF THE WORLD.

The next day in the same class I said something that I never thought would come true, I said "if we go to war and it lasts a long time (never thought this would be true) some of you may go and fight. Today I sit here and think, it is true, I'm sure some of those boys with little options went to fight. And like every single soldier who still fights, or who lost their lives I pray for them, what brave people!

The next weeks were devastating to me. I had eaten dinner at the top of the World Trade Center so I had an understanding of just how high they were. American tv's weren't showing it, but we have a lot of Latin tv stations here and they showed people jumping, and the thuds when they fell.

They showed all of the heartbroken people posting picture after picture of their lost loved ones all over NYC.

My emotions always run away with me (even then) and finally Drew banned me from watching the tv.

I did something reminiscent of what my Dad did all those years ago and took the picture above. Today I have a heavy heart, and I received the following from a good friend on facebook that I can't help agreeing with although it is an unpopular sentiment.

Rich DeBerardinis

Credit to Marcus Davis By Brian McLaren:Being in the UK, I got the news about Osama bin Ladin's death earlier than a lot of folks in the States. The news here showed President Obama making the announcement, and then shifted to American college students reveling outside the White House, shouting, chanting "USA" and spilling beer. I flipped through channels and saw the same scene repeated.

I can only say that this image does not reflect well on my country, especially in contrast to the images that have been so strong here in recent days ... revelers celebrating a wedding.

Joyfully celebrating the killing of a killer who joyfully celebrated killing carries an irony that I hope will not be lost on us. Are we learning anything, or simply spinning harder in the cycle of violence?

I just got this email from an American friend:

... When I received the news of his death, I must confess that my primary emotion was not excitement, but sadness...deep sadness that his life did not reflect God's intent for the world...deep sadness as I anticipated the rhetoric that awaited me on Facebook, the internet, and TV.

I do not understand a world that allows for a man to cause so much pain and I do not understand a world that rejoices in the death of that man who just happens to be created in the image of God. I have no answers or alternatives, but it saddens me that the best response we have to true brokenness always seems to be death.

Perhaps everyone is right. Perhaps the death of Osama Bin Laden has made this world more safe. I do not believe, however, that his death has made this world more beautiful.

As you talk about this news, I hope you will consider how your response can counter rather than reinforce the cycles of violence that spin around us. And please God, help us bring healing beauty to the ugliness of violence in whatever small way we can. Today.

New Jia-ism

2011-04-27T06:46:00.003-04:00

On Easter Sunday Anna said to Jia, I am making a red velvet cake, come help me. Jia thought for a moment put her head in her hands and said "Thank you, but I think I'll pass"

She is also doing a hilarious impression of Queen Elizabeth drinking tea-she has her pinky finger out and is trying to do a British accent and says "I am Queen Elizabeth." (I think she learned this is school." Every time we try to get her to do it for the camera she gets all shy, so I guess maybe a still picture is all we can do.

SPRINGTIME ACTIVITIES

2011-04-26T14:20:00.013-04:00

I AM BASICALLY GOING TO PUT A TON OF PICS UP FROM OUR EGG FRENZY. THE BIG GIRLS PAINTED EGGS WITH JIA, ALTHOUGH THEY ALL CAME OUT WEIRD BECAUSE ANNA WAS TRYING TO FIND THE RIGHT SHADE OF BLACK (????) EGGS.

DAD, MOM AND JIA ATTENDED THE CITY EGG HUNT

JIA HUNTED FOR EGGS HERE AT HOME. SHE ALSO GOT EASTER BASKETS THAT KATIE DID A REALLY PRETTY JOB PUTTING TOGETHER BUT I CAN'T SEEM TO FIND IT. (MAYBE ANNA'S CAMERA?)

JIA COULD CARE LESS ABOUT WHAT IS IN THE EGGS. SHE IS NOT A BIG SWEET EATER AND ACTUALLY LIKE THE HARD BOILED EGGS WITH A LITTLE SALT. (NOT TO WORRY, ANNA, KATIE AND DAD WILL HELP HER EAT THE SWEETS!)

WE FORGOT TO TAKE DINNER PICTURES, BUT WE WERE LUCKY TO SHARE EASTER DINNER WITH ELLEN.

UP NEXT: THE PARNHAM SOUTH ROYAL WEDDING PARTY, STARTS AT 3:00 A.M. EST

HAPPY EASTER! GOD BLESS YOU

2011-04-24T01:28:00.003-04:00

PRAISE BE TO GOD AND FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST! IN HIS GREAT MERCY HE HAS GIVEN US NEW BIRTH INTO A LIVING HOPE THROUGH THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST FROM THE DEAD...
1 PETER 11:3

The best...

2011-04-17T02:58:00.004-04:00

...But the best Jia comment...I love you Mom, I love you a whole lot...

LOST IN TRANSLATION...

2011-04-13T22:02:00.002-04:00

WHEN SOMEONE IN OUR HOME SAYS THINGS LIKES "STUPID" OR "SHUT UP" JIA CONSIDERS THESE "BAD WORDS' AND SAYS " EWWWWWW, MAMA MIA, PAPA PIA" WHICH WE FIGURE IS SILVER PALMS SPEAK FOR "YOU BETTER NOT SAY THAT."

HOWEVER, JIA GETS A LITTLE CONFUSED ABOUT WHAT IS ACTUALLY A "BAD WORD". HERE ARE SOME OF HER LATEST, IT IS HARD NOT TO LAUGH WHILE REPRIMANDING HER, ESPECIALLY AS HER TWO BIG SISTERS ARE HYSTERICAL AND WE ARE TRYING NOT TO LAUGH...

THERE IS A SONG THAT IS POPULAR THAT IS CALLED F*** YOU (CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?) THERE IS A CLEAN VERSION THAT ANNA AND KATIE LISTEN TO CALLED "FORGET YOU" THE KIDS CALL IT "F-YOU". WELL JIA HAS HEARD THE CLEAN VERSION A BUNCH OF TIMES...

SCENE #1:
JIA GOING TO BED:

MOM: I LOVE YOU JIA
JIA: (SMILING POLITELY) F-YOU MOM.

SCENE #2
JIA IS WALKING DOWNSTAIRS WITH BRAIDS IN HER HAIR
KATIE: JIA, YOU LOOK LIKE AN INDIAN
JIA: I'M NOT AN IDIOT, YOUR AN IDIOT

A REGULAR: "OH MY GOSH, I'M FREAKIN' OUT"

MAYBE THIS IS WHY PEOPLE DON'T HAVE CHILDREN 8 YEARS APART.

I Am Still A Teacher!

2011-04-11T17:01:00.004-04:00

With my disabilities, this was the month I was supposed to resign from the Broward County School board. I got the letter to sign last week. I also had a request for another leave from last year. I took a chance, figuring all they could say is "no" and I really thought they would.

A few days later I got the news back, they have extended my leave for yet another year! I couldn't believe it!

I had been feeling very sad. A huge part of my identity is being a teacher, and I thought the title was going to be taken away from me.

Please pray for me, that I will be able to return to school in 2012-2013!