This had to hurt.

Are we closer to the nuclear plant than I thought? At any rate, I feel sorry for my little hen!

books before bed

Zion and Alden have been increasing their reading each night - to the point that it is almost dangerous to roll over in what the kids dubbed, "the big bed."

Other blogs

I've been updating my class blogs lately, and haven't taken time to work on this one. But, here is a photo update of our latest activities.


Jonathan Gaynor, sound man extraordinaire, stopped by just in time to help the kids retrieve their bow from the top of a tree. You might be thinking, "why was the BOW in the tree, and not an arrow in the tree?" I was thinking the same thing, but have long ago learned it is often better not to ask.

In other kid news, we had a great time at the Myrtle Beach hotel that boasted an indoor water park and personalized taxi service back to the room. We met up with my friend Jen and her crew, including Nate, who is from the same area in Ethiopia as Zion. It was a perfect match up since her three are close in age to our three and enjoyed each other's company immensely. Cute kid pic by Jenn.

Move over 'possom!

There's a new kid in town. And, he's bigger. And he likes chocolate icing from the free grocery bakery buckets we neglected to wash out.

Haven't seen my "little buddy" in awhile. I do miss him. He was getting plump and his coat was sleek. He'd hang out in the back yard and catch apple cores I'd toss to him. I think he'll be back around after awhile, once he starts jonesen' for Phydeaux's yummy cat food.

Meanwhile, out back all is well (and productive). Photo compliments of Jonathan Gaynor.


And, in the kitchen, Alden's ants, a gift from his Aunt Judy, are thriving. Well, maybe not thriving, but certainly existing. At least those that haven't been smashed when they tried to get out, or knocked unconcious when people accidentally slam their home on the table.

Today is History!

It was beautiful seeing Obama take office today. My children watched with me as history unfolded.

Then, Alden announced he wanted to be president someday.

I don't have the heart to tell him yet that he can't.

We have to change that so foreign born adopted kids can dream, too!

My book for Hanna

The book I created for Hanna Fanta of Children's Heaven is currently for sale on the Ethiopian Orphan Relief site. All proceeds go directly to Hanna.

I'm just blown away by the support that has been shown by the people who have ordered already.

Thank you!

I put a short video about her work below.

Children's Heaven Addis Ababa