Merry Christmas 2009

Merry Christmas from the Deary Family!

Our 2009 Christmas card photo ~ took only two attempts with our camera's timer and wha-la! A lucky shot with Kristina actually smiling.

As I eluded to in the previous post, JD and I were up pretty much all night prepping for Santa's arrival. Around 6:15am, our little angel stumbled out of her bedroom rubbing her eyes and looking for Mama.

I swept her up and brought her to bed with me -- afterall, Mama needed some shuteye before the day's festivities and there was no better time to cuddle with our cutie.

Around 8:30am, Kristina woke up and I knew it was time to start the day. I asked her "Do you think Santa was here?" to which she replied "cookies and milk!" Good memory, kid. We ran out to the kitchen and she looked so shocked to see the cookies and milk gone. Now this is the child who repeatedly told us for 3 weeks that Santa was "scarey" and wouldn't go near any Santa Claus. But to learn he had been here, in our house -- that was ok!

Waking up and finding gifts under the tree.

No parent in all my 40+ years had ever prepared me for what we were in for. What child doesn't rip open gifts? Kristina was in awe with all the gifts under the tree. When I handed her one to open, she ran for her full-functioning kiddie scissors so she could cut the tape on each gift. I soon realized we would be here past Easter if this pace ensued.

After seeing Mama or Papa open big boxes with either keys or scissors, it was only logical that all Christmas gifts should be opened with scissors, too -- right?

After 2 gifts, we realized she was quite overwhelmed. It was now approaching 11am and we were having family come over for Brunch at 1pm. I knew that cooking, showering and cleaning up were going to have to be done at warp speed so opening presents had to be put on hold temporarily.

Kristina "organizing" the brunch platters. Ham and Croation Casserole (thanks, Lisa!!) ~ YUM!

It was a wonderful day filled with family and friends. Nana and Grampa D, along with JD's brother, Bryce, came over. Uncle Bryce brought Kristina a Razor scooter along with a helmet and knee/elbow pads -- just what our daring young angel needed! Nana and Grampa brought lots of nice goodies for Kristina, including a cool Discovery Kids computer. Kristina loves to sit at her computer and "type" away...just like Mama. Watch out -- she may start her very own blog one of these days!

Kristina getting a lift from Uncle Bryce!

Opening the Razor scooter from Uncle Bryce. And without any instruction, she knew how to ride it (just as long as she's going straight, that is!).

To top off the day, we finally hooked up our Skype webcam and then called Grammy and Poppy in FL to wish them a Merry Christmas. We bought them a webcam so it was so great to be able to see each other. It just touched my heart when Kristina leaned forward into the screen to kiss Grammy and Poppy. The feeling multiplied when she then stretched her arms around the computer to "hug" them. I'll definitely have to get a picture of that!

Tired but blissfully happy to celebrate our first Christmas together as a family.

Towards the end of the day, we had to bring Kristina over to JD's parent's house so she could stay there for the night as JD and I both had to work on Saturday, 12/26 (Saturday's are our usual workday). I was so sad driving home without her in the carseat nor having her in her bed to kiss goodnight...

As hectic and exhausting as the day was, it was wonderful. I know Kristina doesn't understand the true meaning of Christmas yet but to us, she was the example. Her spirit is so fresh, so full of energy and so happy. I wish I could bottle it and spread it around the world.

Kristina wearing her first Mickey Mouse Santa hat.

Christmas is not done yet...we plan on celebrating the Russian Christmas on January 7 by having dinner with my parents and JD's parents. We have a Russian stocking hanging on the fireplace for Kristina which she will enjoy at that time (btw...Thank you, Auntie Dawn, for the stocking!). I'm just hoping the tree stays somewhat alive until then!

Our house all lit up to with THREE deer awaiting Santa's arrival. :)

'Tis the Season

Over 2 weeks without a post? What's up with that? Let's just say that the holiday season was hectic but joyous in our household and I've never been more tired. (I know...break out the violins...)

Every day I think "I have to post this to the blog" as I have been wanting to capture every big moment in Kristina's first Christmas season with us. But there just aren't enough hours in the day. So instead -- as they say "a picture paints a thousand words" -- I'm going to just post some pictures and let them do the speaking for us.

Christmas Tree Hunting

Kristina paroosing the Christmas Tree Lot searching out her favorite tree.

Helping Papa and giving feedback as Papa whips out his Swiss Army Knife and opens up the 20th tree or so....I lost count...

Kristina and Mama rejoice when we found our "perfect" tree!!!

Preschool Holiday Program

Introducing our 2 year old class for their first public appearance! Our dear Kristina is center - "scratching" her nose...

I just gleemed with pride as Kristina (4th from left) danced & danced and shook her wrist to jingle her bells...while some kiddos stood there just staring and soaking up the experience.

After the show, Santa Claus showed up! Unfortunately, Kristina finds Santa very "scarey" (her words!) and she had to be taken out of the room by her teacher due to crying. This was the closest we got to Santa Claus this year. As indicated by Kristina pointing, Kristina was literally telling Santa "Santa, go away." Oh, bah humbug...

Kristina and her friend, Gaby. We've requested that Kristina stay in the 2 y.o. class for another few months, even tho' she's turning 3 soon, just so she can stay with Gaby. Kristina has had so many changes in her life in the last 7 months that we decided consistency would be best at this time. The teachers are so understanding and supportive.

Christmas Eve 2009

Kristina checking NORAD to track where Santa Claus is and texting him to add something to her list...

Kristina putting our first Christmas ornament on the tree...the Russian Angel girl. Last year, I wrote an entire post about this ornament. Check here for details: Angel Ornament

Kristina was so excited to leave cookies and milk for Santa!

After our little one nestled to sleep in her bed, Mama and Papa worked feverishly to prepare for Santa's arrival. Let's just say...Mama and Papa saw the sun rise the next morning. Stay tuned...more to come regarding Christmas morning with a toddler who doesn't understand the concept of opening gifts (but soon learned!).

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Birthday Serenade

Dearest Kristina:

You really know how to make a Mama who's starting to feel old ~ feel really good! I worked a shortened day so I could pick you up and take you to Kira's 3rd birthday party. It was so much fun spending this time with you because today is my birthday, too!

Contrary to the lack of smiles, you and Kira were excited about it being cake time!

We left you for one moment and then found you fitting in some time to work off the cake!

When walking home from the party, we walked through the neighborhood so we could see all the Christmas lights up on the houses. You LOVE the lights! It was funny because you wanted to walk up to the houses for candy...but that's a different holiday...

Then after playing for a while and taking a bath, you fell asleep on my chest for 2 hours. This is only the 3rd time since we've been home that you have fallen asleep in my arms and although my arm fell asleep and I was losing sensation in both legs, I cherished every second.

When sleeping, you suck your thumb and like to cover your face with your left hand.

When Papa came home, we had Pizza and then capped off the night with some birthday cake. Papa put only 3 candles on the cake -- one for every 15 years. Next month, we'll be putting 3 candles on YOUR cake!

What made my night more than anything was the way you serenaded me "Happy Birthday." Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could have such a special, happy birthday. And it's all because you have completed Papa and me. Thank you for the best gift of all, Kristina ~ you.

I love you dearly,
Mama xoxoxo

You sang "Happy Birthday" to me ... and it was!!

She's moving out...

...or so she thinks!!! Kristina was so surprised 2 weeks ago when her friends, Tricia and Riley, were generous enough to give Kristina their playhouse and quad "car". As soon as Santa Christopher delivered it, I got busy and washed it down and started to assemble it so she could move in.

We cleared out an area on our front porch and now Kristina has her very own guest house complete with kitchen and bathing area for her babies. Thank you, Laura, for offering it to us!

Kristina cooking up some hot dogs and chicken on her new bbq outside her new house.

As for the quad, we swear....Kristina has been on this earth before. She hopped on and took off without any instructions regarding how to drive it. Helloooooo, girl - you aren't even 3 years old yet! Before we know it, she'll be asking Papa for the keys to his truck.

From her Ekaterinburg hat down to her red rhinestone boots, Kristina chose her clothing and donned it herself!

This past week was really, really good. November was very tough sleep-wise but as of December 1, Kristina has been falling asleep again within 15 minutes. The new tactic: I can't be in the room with her and I can't leave her bedroom door open. I have to say "night-night, I love you, baby" -- and then walk out closing the door behind me. She cries and cries. I see the light going on - then off - on - off... I hear toys singing and bleeping ---- but then there's silence. It rips my heart out to hear her cry but the next morning, she greets me with a HUGE grin saying "Hi" and ready to start the day without a memory of the trauma from the night prior. I know for attachment reasons it's been said that we should NOT let them "cry it out" but I have a feeling we're doing a-ok in that area.

Everyday, JD and I see our little girl growing up in front of our eyes. Last week, I braided her hair for the first time. It was such a joy!!!! It was at that moment I realized I need lots of practice but hey, not bad for a novice.

And the video below is just an example of our little Miss Independent. She loves to cut up everything -- from her noodles, to fruit, to Pirate Booty (like puffed corn). No worries, Grammy and Nana -- she uses a [dull] cheese knife or her "kiddie" knife.

OK, mom....how's that for a quick update? My mom's been checking daily to get a peek at her little "Tina" as the once-a-week blog posts just aren't enough. So -- from here on out, I'm going to try and do more frequent updates...but they might be brief. Stay tuned...the excitement of the holidays is almost upon us!

Two weeks ago, we attended our first Christmas celebration -- the Metrolink train rolled into the Chatsworth station covered in over 20,000 lights with a special visit from Santa Claus.

Kristina didn't know what to make of the singing reindeer but she loved the lights.

Thanksgiving 2009

It's been a challenging few weeks with a toddler who feels she runs the roost, is ready to move out and fend for herself ("go away mama/papa" if we try to help), and won't go to sleep (taking up to 2 hours each night!) for fear she'll miss out on something. She's a night-owl just like her Mama.

But the challenges are outweighed with the joys of watching Kristina blossom. And every night when we say our night-night prayers (and I silently add "Please, God, let her fall asleep quickly!!!"), we thank God for bringing us together. She is the gift we are especially appreciative for on this Thanksgiving holiday.

We also want to thank all our family, friends and virtual friends who have followed our journey and supported us the entire way. Your comments encourage me to continue this blog and document Kristina's first year with us.

To each and every one of you,
Happy Thanksgiving!!

A little girl who woke up from her nap just in time for dinner and a sleepy mama who craves a nap more than pecan pie!

Our very own shot of Wild Turkey!

Kristina's first try at pumpkin pie. Yeah...we'll do anything to get our little girl to eat fruit. (And everything tastes great with lots of whipped cream!)

First of many family holiday pictures (but it only took 50+ digital shots to get us all looking in the same direction...)

November 21st...Holds Special Meaning

Today, is significant. It's our dear friends' Anna and Mike's wedding anniversary. Happy Anniversary, guys!

Today also marks 17 years ago when JD and I went to Six Flagg's Magic Mountain Amusement Park (where we went on our first date 27 years ago when we were in High School...). We took a ride on Collosus (one of the most famous rickety wooden rollercoasters left!) and as we approached the top of the first incline, JD pulled out a diamond ring and proposed marriage to me. It's been a crazy ride ever since but one we keep riding through all the highs and lows and still want to keep on going and going and going.

November 21 is also considered National Adoption Day and November is National Adoption Month. I agree with my friend Amy, though, that it should really be called Inter-National Adoption Day as children await families around the world as well as here in the USA.

Prior to 2007, it's sad to say but we didn't really think about the children awaiting a family as our focus was so heavily weighted on creating our own child. But that has changed. Not only because we completed our family through adoption, but because we saw with our own two eyes the spirit of little children running around so innocently craving for attention and reaching out to be touched. Through their inquisitive looks as we approached the room to pick up Kristina, to the calling out of "Mama, Papa" as we walked by, to the laughter and smiles as we helped them climb up the slide or play on the see-saw ---- these children touched our lives like I never thought was possible.

These children are no different than the children we see daily in our own families or with our friends. Unfortunately, they have been born into a situation that doesn't afford them the ability to grow up in a loving family or a family with means to support them.

We have learned a lot about adoption and have experienced first-hand the rewards that it reaps. JD and I have been blessed beyond what words can express. I can't say "I wish we would have adopted sooner" because we'd be on a different path than we are now and life is great. We were destined to go through what we had to endure until our angel was born and ready for us.

I commend all those who welcome children into their home to enrich their lives and give them love. For those who choose adoption, I hold a special place in my heart.

In honor of the 143 million orphans in the world, I ask you to say a prayer or think a wishful thought that some day, each one will experience love and life to its fullest potential.

If you have two minutes, here is a quick YouTube video: The Facts .

By adopting a child, you cannot change the world. But for that one child, you make a world of difference.*

*I read a version of this phrase on someone's blog but can't find the blog right now to give credit. If it's yours, please let me know!!! :)

6 Months Home as a Family

To our dearest Kristina DeAnn:

Six months ago tonight, we brought you home and started our life as a family. It has been the most challenging yet the most rewarding time of our lives.

At times I feel like we are part of a circus act --- juggling schedules to make sure all your needs are met and putting on make-up with the hopes to hide some of the evidence of lack of sleep.

You are wise beyond your years, my dear, and your profound desire for independence has us at times pulling you back to remind you that you're not yet 30 years old, nonetheless 3.

For instance, you love to carry around your chair or booster seat so you can get things out of cabinets, retrieve items off the kitchen counters, and prepare your own meal. In your world, scissors and Sharpee Pens are everyday items -- not! You pick up on everything so like all parents, we have to be careful what we say or do.

Your favorite phrases are now "it's broke, Papa fix", "it's heavy," "Mama's cooking," "Papa's truck" (although we're still working on the correct pronunciation of TRuck...). You have also demonstrated the use of polite words: Please, Thank You and You're Welcome.

You melt my heart, Kristina, when you cuddle into my belly to spoon and say "s-cuse me, Mama -- s-cuse me" or when I cry (usually from joy), and you stroke my arm and say "it's okay, Mama - it's okay" with your head tilted to the side as you look into my eyes. You melt Papa's heart when you place your two hands onto his cheeks to give him a kiss...

Papa and I still look at each other and realize we're rookies at this parenting gig - at times forgetting the most basic of items when going out in public with you or not knowing the best way to reprimand you when you pull out your 2-year old tactics.

But together, the 3 of us are learning more everyday. I pray nightly that Papa and I are given the insight, patience, and wisdom to be the best parents possible for you.

Thank you, Kristina DeAnn, for being the beautiful little girl you are. You have brought so much meaning into our lives that we didn't even know was possible and we thank God daily.

Many blessings to you, KD!

All our love,

Mama and Papa xoxoxo

Our first picture together at home, May 16, 2009

Six months home as a family, November 16, 2009

The LINK to our family...

We've been home almost 6 months and I've never written about the Adoption Agency that helped make our life what it is today. There are many wonderful agencies out there but in the world of Russian adoption, it is crucial that the right one is chosen. I've read of people waiting over a year or two years ---- just for a referral and that is just incredible.

Back in December 2007, after 5 months of researching agencies, I narrowed it down to 2: one in Ohio and one is San Diego. When the one in Ohio called me and said they weren't taking referrals for girls at the moment, our decision was made for us. Our choice: Adoption Options located in San Diego.

I heard many wonderful things about AO and liked the fact that they were close by (here in CA, 2 1/2 hours is "close by") in case we needed to drop in and have a face-t0-face.

In January 2008, I submitted our application to AO and then took a 4-month hiatus from adoption to focus my efforts completely on my "last" work project - the national Occupational Therapy Convention. As soon as it was complete in April 2008 and JD & I took our vacation to Tahoe to recover and get reacquainted, everything went into full swing. We completed our homestudy in June, submitted it in July and received Kristina's referral a week later.

We couldn't have asked for a smoother adoption process. JD and I know we were blessed by everyone all over the world praying for us and yes, we think "luck" had some part in the process. And we can't begin to thank the staff at AO for their professionalism, thoroughness, and support ~ both here in San Diego and abroad in Russia.

Now if you have a spare few moments, you can read an article in Adoption Options' latest Newsletter (October-November version - for the home page, click here: Adoption Options). I think you may know the author's! ;)

Overview of Adoptions Options Picnic, June 2009 (3 weeks home from Russia)

Kristina and I with Brent Yoder, director of Adoption Options. We are forever thankful to Brent for "introducing" us to Kristina!

Kristina has always loved the slide...from the one in the orphanage to the ones on the beach!

Kristina's first time playing on a beach.

My dear friend and former co-worker, Andrea, came to the picnic to see Kristina for the first time.

Carrie and John-John (or is it John-John's twin, Tommy?) - who was adopted from Ekat a year before Kristina came home. Carrie was an incredible resource for Ekat adoption when we learned we would be going there to meet our daughter.

Kristina hung out with Daniel -- her first "boy"friend here in the US. Daniel is originally from Kirov, Russia.

Donna, here with Daniel, was such an encouragement during the lengthy adoption process! Thank you, Donna!

Overview of Adoption Options Picnic, October 2009 (5 months home from Russia)

Papa and Kristina enjoying some lunch.

"Wow, mama -- this is the same slide as in June but it looks so much smaller!" No, baby - you're just getting bigger!!

And she loves to swing.....high!!!

With friends, Beth and her daughter, Francesca. Beth and husband, Enrico, will be traveling to Ekat in December to meet their referral for the first time!

Kristina and Francesca saying good-bye until next time!

We always feel like the heavens are looking down upon us...especially when we're leaving San Diego!

Our Little Ghoul

Actually, our little girl was not a "ghoul" for her very first Halloween. Not a Princess. Not a fairey. Not Little Red Riding Hood. Instead, Kristina was a Dragon! Papa was shopping at his favorite store (yes....you all know it....COSTCO!!) and found this costume about 6 weeks ago. He grabbed it knowing if you pass something up at Costco, you'll never see it again. It wasn't quite the costume I imagined but oh....she looked so cute in it! "Grrrrr" ~ the sound we heard all last week as Kristina practiced her new identity.

The holiday started out Friday with a party at school where Kristina wore her costume out in public for the first time. Since it was quite bulky and warm, I brought it along with the hopes that the teachers would put it on her in time for their little party. When Kristina saw all the other kids dressed up, the teachers had no problem convincing Kristina to put hers on. Kristina even came home with an award in recognition for having the "Scariest Costume". Scariest? You judge for yourself!

On Halloween, Kristina was with Nana and Grandpa D for the day since JD and I both had to work. There was a Halloween Carnival at a local park so they took Kristina there. Kristina had lots of fun but when Nana and Grandpa felt that it was starting to get a little too overstimulating for our little one, they took her home for her 2-hour nap. Afterall, a dragon must rest in prep for scaring the begeezus out of everyone that evening!

Nana guiding Kristina to play a bean-bag toss game.

When I got home at 5:30pm, Kristina was engaged in carving pumpkins with Papa and Grandpa. As usual, Kristina has to have her hands in everything!

Kristina supervising Papa and Grandpa carving all the pumpkins!

I had to lower myself to bribing our daughter in order for her to donn her Dragon costume for Trick or Treating. "Please, Kristina --- you'll get some candy!!" I can't believe I had to succumb so low but I was really worried there for a moment as Super Gaby, Cinderella Kira, and Pirate Maiden Andrea awaited Kristina outside! Nana and I even brought out the back-up pink tu-tu ballerina dress, but with no success. Finally - our dragon was all dressed up and ready to hit the streets (minus the dragon head [hood])...

I do have to say that this was by far the best Halloween in a long time. It was so much fun watching Kristina evolve from being the naive one lagging behind everyone to the one leading the group to the door and saying "Tick or Teat." After making it home, Kristina got as much joy out of handing out candy as she did in getting it.

We are so appeciative to JD's parents for taking care of Kristina on Saturday and helping her enjoy her first Halloween. It was great having them here and only wish my family in FL was here, too.

Now, does anyone know how to get a 2 year old down from a candy high?????

Ok, girls -- level with me...does this dragon costume make my butt look big???

Kristina went to Rose and Marc's house (our next door neighbors) for her first candy. Yes - Kristina was already eating a Snickers by the time we left their house. Wipes --- stat!!!

Started out hanging behind everyone....

...but not for long! Headed to the front of the line ~ thumb and all!

Self-serve Halloween candy...what has this world come to??????

Walking through the neighborhood turned into running when learning candy was being handed out FREE! Geez, America is great!

"Look, Mama --- you match the big pumpkin on the lawn." Thanks, baby....

"OK, Tina's tired." (Kristina just started calling herself Tina within the last 2 weeks. No more Tee-Tee....)

"Whew...this Trick or Treating is a lot of work!" Rest break!

Alright, Mama -- check out my stash so I can start test-tasting!

Sugar......I need sugar.....muhahaha!!!