This Oregon Life

Daisy Scouts Blessing Bags Project

2012-02-02T19:42:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Beth Cupitt's post about blessing bags back in October and the wonderful work of Ordinary Hero, our Daisy Scout troop spent this Wednesday's meeting preparing blessing bags of their own to send with Ordinary Hero on their next mission trip to Ethiopia.

During our meeting last week, we spent a few minutes talking about the project and sharing ideas about clothing, toys, and books that the girls thought would be most useful and loved by little girls and boys in Ethiopia. Then, they headed home and looked through their closets and toy chests, and in the process they found little treasures to share. With their moms, they picked out clothing that they wanted to share with children in Ethiopia. Madeleine and I, like many other mother-daughter Daisy duos, headed to the shops over the weekend, picking out new underwear and socks to tuck into the bags. We picked up gallon sized bags, stickers, and a stack of unlined note cards, too.

When we arrived at Daisy Scouts Wednesday, we started setting up the stations:

1. Clothing - For the outfits (pants/leggings/skirt and shirts or dress), underwear, and socks - stacked in neat piles by the myriad of moms who stepped up to get things organized while I led the first part of the meeting with the girls.
2. Toys - Little, lightweight toys, books, dolls, stickers, stuffed animals... So many sweet little items, picked with love by little girls who wanted to share their blessings.

3. Notes of encouragement - For making little notes for the child who will receive each bag. I loved watching little hands hard at work, jotting down sweet messages - inventive spelling and all, signed with love from Oregon.

This amazing group of moms helped make sure the bags were packed up with matching sizes and labeled on the outside with the gender/age of child the bag is intended for.

Before the girls started filling their bags, we sat down together and watched this amazing video sharing Ordinary Hero's work in 2011 in Ethiopia. The girls watched so intently, inspired by their act of kindness in putting together these special blessing bags for these beautiful children and others just like them.

In the end, we filled several bags with neatly packed and labeled gallon-sized bags, filling the trunk of my car. This afternoon, I headed over to UPS after work where the kind woman behind the desk helped me to find and pack everything up before shipping it to Ordinary Hero.

Bubble bath...

2012-01-01T16:44:00.000-08:00

Madeleine loves the bathtub at her grandma's house... She started the year of right with a bubble bath, in fact, she was enjoying herself so much, we had a hard time convincing her to get out and enjoy some breakfast with the rest of us.

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Midnight!

Little artist...

2011-12-31T16:30:00.000-08:00

working on a very special project connected with our adoption story. Details coming soon...

Space updates...

2011-12-30T16:20:00.000-08:00

After Christmas, we found these amazing leather chairs at World Market for a steal- and since we sold our overstuffed couch in our yard sale in the fall, we've been waiting to fill the space in our living room. We're still on the lookout for a pair of ottomans to coordinate, but we love this new space. After three years of living here, our little house is finally coming together. Madeleine fell in love with the owl lamp at World Market, and I couldn't resist the huge sale on pillows.

Entryway updated...

2011-12-30T16:13:00.000-08:00

thanks to inspiration from Pinterest... When I started looking for ideas, something attractive to hide our shoes to replace the utilitarian show rack I picked up at Target over five years ago, I found myself impressed by the creative solutions. I especially liked the shoe cabinet re-design from Picket Fence Design:

Then, looking for other ideas, I found this great update on I Heart Organizing:

So... for my Christmas/Birthday present this year, Trevor and Maddie gave me the Hemnes Shoe Cabinet from IKEA. Unfortunately, I was so excited that I forgot to take a BEFORE picture, but believe me this is a huge improvement, just in time for our adoption home study visit, too. I added two pictures purchased in the markets in Rome- the frames were a steal, less than $8.00 for two at Michael's. I still need to find a nice vase for the top of the cabinet, but so excited to share our new entryway:

Thankful...

2011-12-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how this adoption process reminds us how to be humble, to be patient. We received notice from our home study agency last week that all the information necessary to proceed with the interviews had been received, including those pesky fingerprints that I thought might not go through. Letting go of all that worry about fingerprints was such a blessing and a practice in overcoming my own self-centeredness. This entire journey, after all, is about something much bigger than us.

Today, we mailed in our home study payment, and, again, I was reminded of our blessings. All the incredible individuals who have supported us with their prayers, love, and financial help. We started this journey uncertain about the money, and here we find ourselves able to pay these initial bills, bigger checks than we ever write, and everything is coming together. We still have a long way to go, but with faith, we know everything will work out. We are so thankful for the amazing friends, family, and even those who have never met us who have become part of our story.

African Glass Ornaments...

2011-12-22T17:17:00.000-08:00

Inspired by some beautiful ornaments made by another family in the adoption process, the Wallace Family, Laura and I decided to try to create our own special ornaments for Christmas this year. You can purchase one of their wonderful ornaments by clicking on the ornament they designed below:

We changed ours up only a little bit, using one of our favorite quotes from Mother Teresa and a few of the Ugandan magazine beads dangling from the top of the ornament.

Girls weekend...

2011-12-19T19:43:00.000-08:00

Mom, Maddie, and I headed up to Portland to meet Laura for a wonderful mix of Christmas shopping and relaxing together. We managed to squeeze in a walk around the Portland Zoo, lit up in an incredible display of color and light. After a long day shopping, we changed into our bathing suits and braved the cold in our swim suits and robes as we headed out to the steaming soaking tubs at Edgefield.

Melting Snowmen Cookies...

2011-12-14T20:55:00.000-08:00

Using our favorite holiday cookie recipe passed down by Grandma Wyss, Madeleine and I put a new twist on our traditional cookie... After we made the dough, rolled out balls of dough into roughly shaped circles, and baked until golden brown, we drizzled on some simple milk and powdered sugar icing.

Then, we cut large marshmallows in half and melted them in the oven for about 15-20 seconds before placing one on each cookie.

Then we decorated them with some icing gel we found at Michael's and various mini decorations we gathered.

Finally, we plated the melting snowmen up for the Daisy Scout cookie exchange...

Fern Ridge Light Parade...

2011-12-08T20:41:00.000-08:00

Hidden Valley Tree Farm

2011-12-04T20:38:00.000-08:00

Do-it-herself...

2011-12-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

We headed to Home Depot for their December kids craft workshop... How did we miss out on this for such a long time?!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

2011-12-01T20:21:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving...

2011-11-27T20:19:00.000-08:00

at Madeleine's level... She delighted in taking pictures of the celebration. Love looking at the world through the lens of a six-year-old.

And finally, the little photographer, resting in bed upstairs after an incredible meal.

A solution for a swallowed tooth...

2011-11-27T20:03:00.000-08:00

Bound for the North Pole...

2011-11-19T20:02:00.000-08:00

Whirlwind weekend in Rome...

2011-11-14T16:42:00.000-08:00

One of the perks of traveling to Europe with my students next summer was a five day teacher training trip to Rome courtesy of EF Tours. When I was thirteen, I visited the northern part of Italy with my dad: Cremona, Verona, Milan, Lago di Gardia. However, this was my first time experiencing Rome, such an incredible mix of ancient ruins and contemporary life amid building designed hundreds of years ago. Since I only brought my iPhone along for this trip, I snapped as many pictures as possible, but they don't adequately capture the feeling of awe as you walk down a narrow cobbled street only to find yourself in an open square with an ancient building such as the Pantheon in front of you.

Fingerprints...

2011-11-06T12:45:00.000-08:00

When Madeleine and I arrived home after her Daisy Scout meeting last Wednesday evening, I headed out to check the mail, pleasantly surprised to find a large envelope from Holt International. I hurried back inside to open it, excited because I thought this would be the notification that our home study interviews were ready to be scheduled. However, as I ripped open the envelope, the smile on my face faded as I read the letter inside. Apparently, the FBI rejected my fingerprints, and enclosed along with this notice was a reminder to return to a local law enforcement agency for new fingerprints within 21 days. Now, to be fair, I had an idea that my fingerprints weren't the best - the scanner at the police station had a hard time picking out the whirls and swirls- after my first visit in September, but after waiting six weeks to hear back, I thought surely they had passed inspection.

Now, faced with the frustrating news that I would have to try again, slowing our process down by another 6-8 weeks, I made a few calls. What if my fingerprints didn't show well enough again? I didn't like the answer: "Your fingerprints must be rejected three times before we can proceed in a different way to complete your background check." And, just in case you wondered, each time you resubmit the fingerprints, "it will take 6-8 weeks to process the new fingerprints."

Undaunted, I'd been using lotion religiously since mid-September when I was told my fingerprints weren't great, I searched for ideas online. After a few more inquiries to law enforcement, I headed to the drugstore and picked up Cornhusker's lotion- magic for dry hands, or so I heard. Even these remedies though, did little to impress the women responsible for fingerprints. After waiting in the police department lobby, trying to tune out the tearful discussion about visitation rights on one side and the telephone conversation about harrassment charges across the aisle, my number was finally called. I walked in hopeful, thinking that maybe, somehow, my fingerprints were better this time. No such luck. In fact, the fingerprint technician commented that they were difficult prints right away. Great. I walked out of the office, fingerprint card in hand, calculating the months added to this process.

Right now, I'm thinking about patience, something that has never been my strong suit. I will wait patiently, I have no other choice, likely for another rejection - "Unreadable" - followed by another trip to the police station. By February, I hope to have had the three rejections necessary to move this process forward, finally beginning our home study and one step closer to bringing our child home. Not December as I had originally thought, but just a few extra months. We'll work on our adoption education in the meanwhile, enjoy the holidays without the worry of extra appointments, and look forward to the even more joyous moment when we get the call from our social worker that the home study is- finally- complete.

Halloween...

2011-10-31T09:21:00.000-07:00

Uganda Magazine Bead Necklaces - Adoption Fundraiser

2011-10-28T07:03:00.000-07:00

We're excited to share our newest adoption fundraiser- recycled magazine bead necklaces from Uganda. Each piece of jewelry is made by a hard-working Karimojong woman in Amazima's vocational program. They roll the beads by hand, dip them in varnish, and thread them onto the string. By purchasing these necklaces, you help a mother earn make a sustainable income to provide for her family. Amazima Ministries' feeding program also is supported from the profits of these necklaces. The feeding program, run by Katie Davis, provides food to children and their families in the same area of Uganda.

I'm ordering several necklaces from 147 Million Orphans. Let me know if you'd like one of these beautiful necklaces. $22 (includes shipping and handling). $10 goes to our adoption fund and $10 goes back to Ugandan charities mentioned above.

Delta Ponds...

2011-10-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

Chilly October morning at the zoo...

2011-10-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

The penguins swam right up against the glass, peering out at us with interest.

The one picture I missed capturing? While I was busy reading about the gorillas, Madeleine and Laura watched as a juvenile gorilla slowly ambled toward the glass where they were standing. I heard a loud shriek as they both jumped away as the gorilla raced towards the glass, swiping it with her hand before running alongside the length of the glass separating her from us. The gorilla just sat off to the side, looking fairly disinterested, as they regained their composure.

A morning at the Seattle Art Museum...

2011-10-15T21:09:00.000-07:00

Madeleine, delighted with the clipboard, paper, and pencil she found in a crate, busied herself by sitting down to capture her favorite artwork. While Laura, Julia, and I admired works of art from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the United States, Madeleine searched out the highlights and recreated them in her own way. We will not be visiting a art museum again without pad and paper in hand. What a delightful way to spend the morning hours in Seattle.

Saturday in Seattle

2011-10-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

October Mini Meet

2011-10-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

So proud of our little swimmer...

Butterfly

Backstroke

Breaststroke

Freestyle

Opened Eyes - Blog Hop

2011-10-11T20:52:00.000-07:00

As we navigate the beginning stages of international adoption, we have found such inspiration in the stories of other families who share this experience. This week one of those blogs is hosting a blog hop to provide the opportunity for families to share in their experiences. Visit Opened Eyes to connect with other families on this journey- a wonderful chance to connect, celebrate, and learn.

Blessing Bags...

2011-10-11T20:47:00.000-07:00

I came across this incredible project when I visited give1save1 today. A group from Ordinary Hero recently completed a mission trip to Ethiopia, and they traveled out into the countryside, delivering clothing and other small gifts to the children they found there. These beautiful children, huge grins on their faces, laughed and smiled as they carefully held onto their gifts. Such a simple gesture, one that any of us interested in helping can join.

You see, it's as simple as going through those clothing items your child has grown out of, searching through the toy box with your child to find a small toy they would like to share. If you want to, you could even head out to the store, pick up something new. That's the beauty of this, you decide, and then you send your package to Ordinary Hero so they can share these blessing bags with children.

Ordinary Hero is collecting the one-gallon ziploc bags filled with an outfit, socks, underwear, and a treat, so that they can hand them out on their next visit to Ethiopia. Just label the outside of the bag with appropriate gender and size. Send it to:

Amy Bealle

Ordinary Hero

105 Keeton Drive.

Hopkinsville, Ky 42240

Here again?

2011-10-11T19:48:00.000-07:00

With the adoption process in full swing, we have made many drives to our local post office in the evening to mail off the myriad of paperwork associated with this process. One night we even headed out in pajamas! Madeleine is now a pro at typing in the information at the after hours mail station.

Notes...

2011-10-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

Autumn...

2011-10-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

Of love, loss, and hope...

2011-10-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

My first pregnancy, with Madeleine, progressed without problems, until I found out a few weeks before my due date that our baby was breech. I gave birth via c-section and ended up with a fairly severe infection along my incision over six weeks after Madeleine was born. The healing from the in-office visits to eliminate the infected skin took several weeks of visits with wound care specialists. I waited, perhaps a bit longer than I might have otherwise, to get pregnant again.

In July of 2008, we suffered a loss at 20 weeks of pregnancy due to a heart defect. I gave birth, Trevor and I holding our tiny baby boy for a few precious hours. A few weeks later, we held a small family ceremony on the Oregon coast. Trevor and I, Madeleine above the water in Trevor's arms, waded out into the icy waves, spreading baby Ethan's ashes across the water as our family watched from the beach.

Finally, this past year - 2010, I was at a point where I felt emotionally and physically ready to try again. Trevor accompanied me to an early doctor visit and together we found out that I had suffered a miscarriage. My HCG levels continued to rise, and last fall, I had a dilation and curettage so that the tissue could be tested for the possibility of a molar pregnancy. Weeks later I found out that it was negative, a relief.

Trevor and I had talked about adoption before, in the weeks and months after losing Ethan, but we always pushed the thought away. Too expensive, we both thought. One day this spring, Trevor said, "We don't have to try again. We could adopt." Suddenly, it was like this heavy weight had been lifted. It felt right.

A question of money...

2011-10-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

One of the things that always held us back from adoption was the cost. When we made the decision to adopt, we decided that we weren't going to let that get in our way. We didn't want to wait two or three years to begin this process, especially with Madeleine already six-years-old. After all, a child waits, and we long to bring that child into our family, surrounding her with love and family.

Since announcing our adoption plans, we have committed to fundraising to help meet the financial demands of this process. This has been a humbling thing, to ask for help from our family and friends. Asking for help, especially financial help, isn't easy for us. We had no road map to guide us down this path. However, this experience has solidified our own resolve to help others in this process in the future, making their adoption dreams a reality, perhaps more importantly to give a child the opportunity to grow up in a family, as so many are doing for us as we journey to bring our child home. Thanks to incredible big thinkers like Beth Cupitt of give1save1, we've already started, albeit in a small way- $1 a week, to give back.

We have been moved by the generosity of family and friends who have already buoyed us with their financial support, with their genuine interest in the process, and their warm words of encouragement. Yesterday, we were overwhelmed by the group of DAC swimmers who came together to support our adoption, raising over $800 to help us with the expenses related to this international adoption. Just a few weekends ago at our yard sale, we raised over $1,400 thanks to generous donations of items from friends and family, not to mention the scores of people who stopped by the sale. Combined with our puzzle piece fundraiser- 200 of the 600 pieces already sponsored- the names of friends and family near and far gradually filling the empty spaces on the back of all those pieces. Incredible generosity- reminding us that we are all indeed family. We've raised over $6,000 total already.

As someone who often writes grants for educational purposes, I am preparing to apply for adoption grants when we complete our home study, making us eligible for these forms of support. In addition, I earned extra money this summer as a result of my involvement in two different amazing educational workshops. This money has already gone directly to our early adoption fees. Trevor has been working hard to earn extra money towards the adoption, too. We are also thinking more carefully before we spend; limiting our dinners out and other expenses to save towards the adoption.

I purchased Adopt Without Debt, reading it thoroughly, but I know, that if necessary, we will apply for a low interest adoption loan, in the hopes that we will finalize the adoption in 2012, thus qualifying for the non-refundable tax credit expiring at the end of that year.

We are thinking forward- to the end of the process- when we hold our child in our arms for the first time. Everything else pales in comparison to that moment.

Swing...

2011-10-02T08:49:00.001-07:00

Reading...

2011-10-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

in Spanish. Our little girl surprises me every day with her capacity to learn and grow. It's hard to keep up!

Another trip to the post office...

2011-09-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

this time to mail in our home study paperwork. Excited to be starting this stage of our adoption journey.

Two steps forward...

2011-09-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

Between the start of a new school year and organizing for our adoption fundraiser - a huge yard sale thanks to about twenty friends and family members who donated items for the big event. As our living room filled with clothing, baby items, kitchen gear, and books, the front yard filled with outdoor furniture and gardening tools. I imagine had we applied, we would have been accepted on Hoarders.

My mom spent her Friday off organizing and sorting the piles of donations for the sale, and, thanks to the additional help of good friends over the course of several nights, we were able to wake up bright and early to set up the front yard for the sale. We set up tables, stacked items in their appropriate places, and gladly welcomed our mothers who began sorting out the stacks and stacks of items. One of my mom's friends from work, brought over a huge donation of kids clothing, toting along her own table, and, with her daughter, setting up a table full of the clothing before moving around and helping get everything else set up as Trevor and I continued to empty our living room of boxes and bags.

Though the yard sale was slated to begin at 9:00 am, I think our first official shopper arrived around 8:00 am. A steady, constant stream of people browsed through the wonderful stash of items, finding great deals and adding a few delicious cookies (handmade by Trevor's mom and sister) to their orders before checking out. Madeleine made an appearance, walking around the yard and directing the children to the FREE KIDS TOYS area, spending an hour or so playing with one very sweet little baby while her mom shopped the sale.

Many queried about our adoption process, and we even had a few couples who shared their own adoption experiences. One adoptive parent invited us to join a local adoption group, promising to return in a few weeks with more information. Most of the individuals who stopped by the sale were complete strangers, but a few were people we knew vaguely from our neighborhood. By the end of the day, about an hour and a half past our 2:00 pm ending time, we were exhausted. Incredibly, thanks to the generosity of everyone who donated items for the sale as well as those who came to purchase them, we ended up raising $1,150. Though Sunday was significantly slower, we ended up raising more than $1,400. At the end of the day, as we carried boxes and boxes down to the end of the driveway to donate locally, a man drove up with his wife and expressed and interest in seeing what was left. He ended up taking several boxes filled with items, leaving a $12 donation in the process. This helped us manage to fit the leftover sales items into three carloads, Mom and I filling our cars as Trevor cleaned up the rest of the yard.

Exhausted, we welcomed the invitation to head over to our friend's house, enjoy a glass of wine, and sit by the pool chatting while our daughters played in their pool. What a delightfully relaxing way to end the day.

Congo Kids 5K Run

2011-09-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

When one of Trevor's friends handed him an orange flyer for an upcoming 5K race, we were thrilled. A local organization, City of Refuge International, is doing something for the children and families living in one area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Through orphan sponsorship, high school scholarships, microloans, and other development programs, they are challenging their local community to take action for people they've never met. When we finish this adoption process, Trevor and I plan on sponsoring one of their children in the DRC, probably an older girl or boy who needs our support for schooling and the more simple necessities - food, a roof over his/her head- necessary to make getting an education happen. We love that this organization has already taken one mission trip to the village where their work in being done- bringing the aid directly to the people of DRC. We want our daughter to know that making a difference starts at home- in their own community- but extends far beyond those limits.

The other thing we found out about this organization? The president and vice-president of the organization were both born and raised in the DRC, making their home today in nearby Springfield, Oregon. What an amazing connection! We look forward to participating in upcoming events to raise funds for the children of DRC- including a concert and, later in the year, a benefit dinner.

But last weekend, we drove down to Dorris Ranch for the first annual Congo Kids 5K- on the banks of the Willamette River, the course was shaded by the myriad of filbert (hazelnut for all you non-Oregonians) trees, providing welcome coolness on a hot summer afternoon. At the sound of the official start of the race, Madeleine, Trevor, and I slowly nudged forward before jogging the first few hundred yards of the race. Our pace quickly slowed to a walk, and we took the time to take in the day - watching the crowd of over 250 who thought this cause was important enough to join in - and thinking about what this race means for us right now. At the same time, we talked about our desire to continue doing this race each year - our family doing this one small thing together as a reminder of our blessings.

Nearing the end of the course, having meandered through the dusty orchard paths for over forty minutes, Madeleine broke out into a full out run, cheered on by earlier finishers who now lined the last few hundred yards of the course. With a broad smile, she pushed across the finish line a few paces ahead of us, then turned around and grabbed our hands.

Madeleine placed second in her age-group, and at the very end of the awards, she was incredibly excited to hear her name read aloud, bounding up to the podium to accept her medal.

Give1Save1

2011-09-17T19:21:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I came across give1save1, immediately excited by the simple premise- give $1 and help save a child. The whole concept rests on the idea that many people, say thousands, together each giving a small amount, $1, can make a huge difference. Each week the person behind this amazing idea, Beth Cupitt (who just happens to be in the process of adopting from Ethiopia herself) features a family that is adopting or a project worth funding.

This week's project provides beds for the children at Noel Orphanage in Rwanda - a place where over 600 children sleep 2 to 3 to a bed. They've already raised funds for a few beds, but there's a much greater need. Right now, Noel needs 50 new bunk beds for the girls and 20 new cots for the toddlers. Each bunk bed costs $135 and each toddler cot costs $65. I'm awed by Beth's big heart and her desire to pay it forward. I love that she's challenging us to join her to do something powerful for those who need it most.

1st Grade...

2011-09-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

Confident and excited, she led the way to school, finding a friend in the midst of the parents and children waiting for the school doors to open. As soon as we walked into the classroom, turned in her school supplies, and greeted her teacher, she was ready to get started - firmly telling us goodbye, and Trevor and I had a hard time turning around and walking out the door.

Back to School Celebration...

2011-09-06T09:35:00.000-07:00

Every year on the day before school starts, we celebrate with a visit to school to meet the new teacher followed by a special dinner, entirely selected by Madeleine. This year, for the second year in a row, she requested homemade Yumm bowls followed by chocolate cake (this year I tried Hershey's Perfectly Chocolate Cake for a change - delicious!) with cream cheese icing- purple with a pink heart and a one drawn in the middle for first grade. Last year we added another tradition, picking a word that we would consider throughout the year. Madeleine thought about this seriously for a few days before deciding on "kind" which she proudly wrote on a piece of paper to decorate her back to school table. I love how excited she gets about this day - definitely a day worthy of great celebration.

Cooling off...

2011-09-05T09:37:00.000-07:00

at the beginning of a hot week, we spent Labor Day rafting the nearby McKenzie River with my parents. We enjoyed a lazy afternoon on the river, stopping for lunch and finding ourselves refreshed by the splash of white water. Madeleine showed off her paddling prowess and joined Trevor and I for a jump into the icy cold river from our favorite spot. This year, the rock we usually jump from was covered by a large tree, sideways across the water, so I tried it out first, climbing across the trunk before plunging into the clear, frigid pool of water below. Madeleine eagerly watched before convincing Trevor and I to take her out for her own chance to jump into the cool depths. After Trevor jumped into the water, Madeleine followed, shouting out, "Ice cubes! Ice cubes! Ice cubes!" as she quickly swam to shore. Already warmed by the hot September sun, I followed soon after, and somehow the second jump didn't feel quite so cold.

Green thumb...

2011-09-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

Since both her grandmothers love to garden, spending hours outside in the garden, Madeleine has been raised digging her hands in the dirt, watering and caring for plants. I think their green thumbs have worn off on her (I can't say the same for myself). At the end of the school year last year, Madeleine brought home a tiny sunflower plant, digging with her shovel to make room for this new flower, and then watering it with care. By summer's end, the sunflower shot into the air, towering over Madeleine and the rest of us.

Frog Lake

2011-08-28T08:45:00.000-07:00

We spent our last morning on the shores of Frog Lake, Madeleine and I wading into the muddy, warm water where hundreds of tiny frogs made their home. We carefully lifted a few frogs into our hands, admiring their tiny bodies, before releasing them back into the muddy water. A magical, delightful few hours were spent spotting dozens of these little creatures before we decided it was time to head home.

Saturday in Hood River

2011-08-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

We woke up to hot chocolate, coffee, and pancakes for breakfast. Madeleine loved her job- filling up our pots with water at the spigot nearby. Then, we headed into Hood River for the afternoon, enjoying the farmer's market where Madeleine decorated a cookie, before heading to the swimming pool for a refreshing dip and the chance to take our first warm shower of the vacation. A low key day with a stop at some of the local orchards for some delicious peaches, tomatoes, and other local produce.

At the end of the day, we headed down to Trillium Lake for another ranger talk, this time we listened to several local Native American legends read aloud.

Ranger Talk - Amped Up

2011-08-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

As we finished up dinner and washed the dishes, we noticed a helicopter hovering over the waters of Trillium Lake. As it dipped down, we noticed that it help a giant orange bucket, filling it with water before lifting back up into the sky and heading towards a nearby forest fire. Trevor, Madeleine, and I, ready for the ranger talk, ran to the amphitheater catching a glimpse of the helicopter as it once again dipped into the blue waters. While the rangers, two college students from the East coast, talked about local wildlife, the helicopter returned periodically, and they paused as everyone watched them slowly hover down towards the water, dipping the bucket until it filled with water, and then lifted up high into the air.

On the mountain...

2011-08-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

After admiring all the runners preparing for the annual Hood to Coast road race, we headed into Timberline Lodge, exploring the lodge before heading upstairs for some hot chocolate and coffee with a view of the mountain. Madeleine and I shared a delicious over-sized mug of the lodge's signature hot chocolate: Dutch process cocoa, steam-frothed by hand, garnished with chantilly cream, English toffee bits, adorned with caramel sauce, and dusted with European chocolate. Incredibly decadent.

Next, we headed up to the chairlift for the Magic Mile trip up the mountain to play in the snow and enjoy the views from on high. Madeleine, after jumping off the lift, headed right for the snow, balling up a handful and tossing it playfully at Trevor.

Morning near Mount Hood

2011-08-25T08:17:00.000-07:00

In the waters of Trillium Lake

2011-08-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Our view as we stepped outside of the tent. We spent the day at the campground, enjoying a canoe ride around the lake, eating our lunch on the water. Madeleine preferred to swim in the cool waters, jumping in on a few different occasions and splashing around.

After lunch, we hiked around the lake, stopping to walk out onto the boardwalk that reached across the shallow, lily pad filled north edge of the lake. Madeleine found several interesting trees, climbing up into one that provided a natural chair.

As evening came, we headed back to the campground, Trevor started the fire, and we sat around chatting as the sky darkened, clouds moving slowly across the sunset horizon.

On the road...

2011-08-24T08:05:00.000-07:00

Finally, at summer's end, we left for a long awaited camping trip, heading north to the forests around Mount Hood. On our way, we made a pit stop at Panera Bread for dinner. In the early evening we arrived at the campground, Still Creek, set up our tent, and found firewood, and roasted marshmallows over the fire for s'mores as we peered through the tall trees at the stars above.

With love for Mikey, Jennie, and their two daughters: A Peanut Butter Pie

2011-08-21T19:29:00.000-07:00

As I sat down on Friday afternoon considering meal ideas for our upcoming camping trip up to Mount Hood, I ended up starting with dessert first. Chocolate mint brownies. A few months ago, one of my favorite baking blogs, browneyedbaker, featured a delicious recipe that I have been waiting to try.

As I scrolled down the page, I found myself drawn to a peanut butter pie recipe made in honor of Mikey Perillo. His wife, Jennie, of In Jennie's Kitchen, made one simple request of the blogging world as she mourned the sudden, unexpected loss of her husband Mikey: "For those asking what they can do to help my healing process, make a peanut butter pie this Friday and share it with someone you love. Then hug them like there's no tomorrow because today is the only guarantee we can count on."

I visited her blog, filled with tributes from hundreds of people who have honored her request, remembering Mikey by sharing his favorite peanut butter pie with those they love. As I read, I was touched by the obvious love she shared with her husband and their two beautiful young daughters. Her video, One last dance, brought tears to my eyes as I watched Mikey dancing with his three-year-old. Such a simple request, honored by bloggers across the Internet. A search of google yielded hundreds of hits: who have made their own peanut butter pies in Mikey's honor. An astonishing, beautiful act. Captured in this video.

I cannot help but remember all of the times I have turned to baking as a source of solace, to help move forward, to busy myself in the making of something to share with those I love. I also thought about Trevor whose love of peanut butter makes peanut butter pie an obvious choice. Though I have never made it for him. It is so important to take the time to stop, slow down, embrace the moment. Something that too often gets lost in the shuffle of life, especially now with a new school year approaching and the demands of the international adoption process taking up so much of our time.

While I'm a few days late; I don't think it's ever to late to honor Mikey and in so doing, seize the moment to share a piece of peanut butter pie and a hug with those I love. Maybe you'll be inspired to do the same. Just in case: The recipe.

Love this series of shots...

2011-08-19T07:14:00.000-07:00

Gearing up for our next adoption fundraiser...

2011-08-18T12:53:00.001-07:00

Daisy Scout Hike...

2011-08-14T09:03:00.000-07:00

Madeleine loves her Daisy Scout troop...

A winding path...

2011-08-13T15:09:00.000-07:00

Last week, we headed to the post office once again, this time to send off the contract that officially signals the beginning of our adoption. Once again, Madeleine happily placed this in the post box.

At the same time, we received our global puzzle, delivered to our front door step, and we started the process of putting the pieces together. Not a simply solved puzzle, we found out. In fact, it took our combined efforts and several hours to place all 600 pieces. Now that we've started to write names and messages on the back of the pieces, 117 so far, we are blown away by the generosity of family and friends as well as a handful of people we've never met. With your help, we've managed to raise almost 20 percent of our goal for this puzzle fundraiser. In only three weeks. We still have a ways to go, but what a wonderful beginning! We wanted to thank each of the individuals and families who have supported our adoption; their names appear on the side underneath our fundraising thermometer where you can see the progress that has been made already.

While we've both been working a little extra, and I've had the good fortune to learn, lead, and earn towards our adoption expenses this summer, we're thinking ahead to our next fundraiser, a garage sale, in mid-September. I think, between the paperwork, myriad of adoption-related reading, grant writing, and fundraising, we will stay on our toes this year.

We are so thankful for the kind words, prayers, and encouragement we've already received from so many people. It makes us smile to feel so loved and supported. We've also managed to connect with a few local families who have adopted or are in the process just like us. What an amazing journey this is!

Tired girl...

2011-08-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

A late night at the movie under the stars...

+ Early morning trip to Grandma's house so Mommy and Daddy could swim at Fall Creek Reservoir...

+ Three mile walk along the bike trail with PJ...

= One tired girl

Dog sitting...

2011-08-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

While my parents help Laura move up to Seattle for her exciting year teaching at an independent school in the city, we're taking care of PJ for the weekend. Madeleine and I took her for a nice walk to the park, and when Trevor came home, PJ accompanied me on my afternoon run. By the time we ran around the neighborhood on a somewhat hot afternoon and headed home, she was exhausted. She found a cool spot on the kitchen floor and eased herself down to recover.

Visit with Laura...

2011-08-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

Since Laura was transitioning from her year working for Habitat for Humanity in Honolulu to a new adventure teaching at an independent school in Seattle this year, Madeleine and I tried to fit in as much time as possible with her. In the few days she was around, we managed to hang out around town, as well as venture out for our first (how can this be!?) rafting trip of the season and an evening overlooking the valley at King Estate Winery.

Our present for Laura as she enters her preschool/Kindergarten classroom for the first time, One Hen - How One Small Loan Made a Big Difference, knowing that she will make an incredible impact on the lucky children who end up with her as their teacher this year. If you have young children in your life, this is a wonderful story about one young boy who made a difference, not only for himself, but for his entire community.

Love the look on Madeleine's face in this shot...

August Mini Meet

2011-08-09T10:07:00.000-07:00

Pics from Madeleine's mini meet... She was thrilled to have Trevor and I as well as her Aunt Laura, Grandma, Grandpa, and Sarit on the sidelines cheering her on. Notice on the videos, her deep water dives... she thought she should be diving towards the bottom of the pool- Yikes! We have since had a conversation about diving out, not straight down.
... and the videos:
25 Free

Post-race Interview

In the garden...

2011-07-30T15:51:00.000-07:00

Love this little neighborhood cat who likes to sit in the shade of the rhubarb leaves...

Of bike rides and picnic lunches on the river...

2011-07-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

these are some of my favorite summer adventures. Madeleine and I riding along the river path towards the playground for a picnic lunch in the shade and time for her to play in the sunshine.

Adoption Application Approved!

2011-07-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

Trevor, Madeleine, and I are excited to begin the process now that our initial application has been approved. When I return from Los Angeles, we will be looking over and signing the contract and sending in our first payment. Then begins the home study.

Incredible to think that in a little over a year we will be holding a baby girl in our arms. We feel so blessed by your encouraging words and thoughtful messages. We look forward to sharing the journey- definitely a marathon, not a 5k- with you!

Teddy Bear Picnic...

2011-07-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

we couldn't resist this annual event filled with great kids music, dancing, and teddy bears (as well as a few other favorites) everywhere.

Willamette Valley fruit...

2011-07-22T09:37:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better than the incredible fresh fruit, ripe for the picking, that we find at nearby orchards, farms, and in our own backyards. Every summer we make time to taste juicy blackberries, blueberries, sweet cherries, strawberries, peaches, and so much more. Since I ended up being in other places for most of July, I missed out on a large part of this year's berry harvest. However, Mom, Madeleine, and I did manage to squeeze in a quick visit to a local blueberry patch followed by a trip to a cherry orchard in mid-July.

Out walking...

2011-07-21T09:46:00.000-07:00

Holocaust Educators Network - NYC 2011

2011-07-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

2011 Holocaust Educators Network from Margo Wixsom on Vimeo.

The day after celebrating July 4th with family and friends, I boarded a plane and headed to New York City to participate in the 2011 Holocaust Educators Network Summer Seminar. After a long flight I arrived at the Memorial Library on 79th Street, and became captivated by the high ceilings and large collection of artwork, only a fragment of what Olga Lengyel once owned I later learned, that filled the home.

Interwoven with time for written, verbal, and silent reflection, has been survivor testimony and the rescuers stories as viewed through the lens of their children’s eyes. We listened intently to Irving Roth, with his brother he worked with horses in one of many Auschwitz work camps and was sent on a death march in the biting, icy winds of January. Alone after the war, he returned home and found his parents who had been hidden by a nurse, one person who chose to resist.

Bronia Brandman, the youngest perhaps to survive in Auschwitz, shared her story. Isolated. Marked. Robbed. Destitute. Thrown out of school. She retraced the direction she took upon arrival- idolized older sister Mila pointed to the right, torn away with her two young sisters on the left, out of instinct Bronia ran to the right. She has a hard time living with this decision now, especially never having said goodbye. Only she and older brother Mendek would survive.

A couple, both children of rescuers, each shared their parent’s history. A popular Hungarian singer, and actress Vali Racz would hide five Jews. Nicolas Winton, largely responsible for saving the lives of more than 600 children with the Czechslovakian Kindertransport, illustrated the concept that one person’s actions can ripple across time and space. The Memorial Library president shared a recent e-mail he received after requesting information about his mother’s experiences in Europe during the Holocaust. In seeking out this history, he found out that his mother, who had only mentioned two camps had actually been in four different camps.

At the Museum of Jewish Heritage near Battery Park with it's breathtaking, symbolic views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, we took in the artifacts - photographs, letters, pottery, clothing, a worn bunny rabbit- and the individual stories that each carries with it. We learned about the conditions for Jews in Europe from the last 1800’s through the beginning of World War II.

A morning at the United Nations provided us the opportunity to consider contemporary implications, including a discussion with representatives for the United Nations Holocaust Education Program and the Office on Genocide Prevention. Later in our two weeks together, we discussed research on how students, teachers, and others cope with Holocaust education being conducted by Karen Shawn, Ph.D. at Yeshiva University in New York.

We spent an entire day reflecting on 9/11, the lasting impact and trauma associated with this event rippled through the room as we faced the shadows that loom. Curriculum was presented- from the participants themselves as well as Sondra Perl, Ph.D. and Jennifer Lemberg. Deborah Batiste presented “Echoes and Reflections” integrating testimony into the work.

There was time for celebration, too. Experiencing the rich Jewish cultural religious traditions as we attended Shabbat services at Temple Shaaray Tefila followed by shabbat dinner at the library. As we feasted on chopped liver, challah, chicken, green beans, ruguluch, and fresh fruit, we joined the cantor in the singing of traditional shabbat songs, including the prayer for the children. Another evening we listened to klesmer music performed by a Jewish musical group culminating in us joining hands and dancing the horah around the library. A play, "I Never Saw Another Butterfly", read aloud- art as a medium for expressing the raw pain, conflicted feelings, and moving forward out of the darkness.

In the midst of our emotional and intellectual inquiry, we enjoyed the city: Broadway shows, amateur night at the Apollo, exploding dumplings at Joe’s Shanghai in Chinatown, meandering walks through Central Park, and an evening sail around the Hudson Harbor for a chance to view Brooklyn, Governor’s Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the Manhattan lights from a different perspective. We spent a day walking through Brooklyn, the afternoon in Coney Island- wading in the ocean, a terrifying ride in the front seat of the Cyclone, ending with dinner at Alice Brazziler’s house- amazing Caesar salad and chicken, followed by an energetic concert by a member of Wu Tang Clan in Prospect Park. Late nights and early mornings, losing ourselves in our inquiries, but also in connecting with each other, building foundations for friendships that will last long after our work here is finished though we may be scattered across this country.

On a sunny Sunday morning, I walked through Central Park to meet Uncle Dave and Aunt Grace for a delicious brunch at Dos Caminos. Later, my cousin Sarah met me at the Memorial Library and we headed via Subway to her place in Brooklyn for an amazing dinner prepared by Grant on the rooftop enjoying the view, time for beyblades with Simeon and Tobias, watching the cats acrobatic feats several stories above the ground, and just relaxing in the midst of all the fast-paced learning that had been happening all through this trip. Layered complexities -what it is to be human.

I packed my suitcase not only with clothing, toiletries, shoes, but also with artifacts. Statue of Liberty illuminated against the fading skyline. A single shoe- all that is left to honor a young boy who died during deportation. A split second decision- two sisters left alone- and the guilt Bronia has carried ever since. A nine-year-old, her black and white dress punctuated by a bold pink bow, voice rising over the thunder of applause at the Apollo. Contrasts.

Next summer when I pack my bags again, this time to journey to Berlin, Auschwitz, Warsaw, Prague- Bronia, Irving, Vali, Nicholas, Chawa, Olga, and so many others- will be there with me.

July 4th...

2011-07-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

In the meadow...

2011-07-03T09:59:00.000-07:00

A new chapter in our life

2011-07-02T21:21:00.000-07:00

... and so begins our journey of international adoption. After a great deal of reflection, prayer, and wisdom from those who have already traveled this path, we are excited to announce the beginning of our adoption story.

Madeleine placing our international adoption application in the mail: July 2nd, 2011.

Home again in Indiana...

2011-06-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

Madeleine and I at the end of a wonderful 10-day visit to Indiana right after school ended in June. She was an amazing traveler, especially during a longer than average layover in Minneapolis-St. Paul.

Children's Museum...

2011-06-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

Rediscovering the museum I visited as a child with Madeleine, Leslie, Dad, Michael, and Christopher brought back many memories.
Of course, the race car...
Budding photographer...
Inside the exhibit...

An afternoon in Zionsville...

2011-06-27T07:50:00.000-07:00

Madeleine had been anticipating this visit for quite a while, she was especially excited to meet her second cousin, Emily, born four days before Madeleine. Aunt Linda's horses, and the possibility of riding them, also made for an excited, talkative little girl in the back seat of the rental car as we headed out of Bloomington on our way to Aunt Linda's house in Zionsville. A wonderful afternoon was spent riding the horses with Aunt Linda and Uncle Jim along with five of their six adorable grandchildren. Madeleine loved to canter and would have stayed out with the horses all evening long if she could. It was so nice to spend the evening visiting with Maggie and Mike as well as Brad and Rachel. Madeleine and Emily made the most of their time together, and it was no easy task to say goodbye for the evening.

24 hours in Bloomington...

2011-06-26T08:08:00.000-07:00

Madeleine and I managed to make a quick overnight trip to Bloomington, spending much of the first day driving around the countryside to see where I had grown up, before heading back to the Indiana Memorial Union for an overnight stay at the hotel there as well as time for some twilight bowling. We shared a delicious Dagwood sub for lunch, enjoyed a cool treat at The Chocolate Moose, and our college favorite, Pizza Express breadsticks for dinner. The next morning we woke up early for a walk around campus and down Kirkwood before meeting a wonderful friend, Mique, for lunch at Uptown Cafe. After lunch we enjoyed a walk along the path that has replaced the old train tracks before heading out of town.
At one of my favorite Bloomington shops, Greetings!
Our house on Tom Phillips Road...
On campus...
Visiting the lilac planted in honor of Grandma Wyss...
Parting shot...

Fast friends...

2011-06-25T08:31:00.000-07:00

Fishers Freedom Festival...

2011-06-25T08:25:00.000-07:00

She makes friends wherever she goes...

2011-06-24T08:51:00.000-07:00

Visiting with Great Grandma...

2011-06-23T07:33:00.000-07:00

I have such wonderful memories of summer weeks spent with my cousins at my grandparents house in Marion, Indiana. Trips to the ice cream shop a few blocks away. Swimming at the Elks Club Pool. Bike rides around the neighborhood. Playing school under the giant, or so it seemed at the time, pine tree in the front yard. Croquet in the neatly trimmed back yard, ball banking off the roots of the huge tree in the backyard filled with bird feeders and around the bird bath. Giggling at new discoveries inside the house. The food that fills me with nostalgia even now: chocolate milk shakes, waffles swimming in maple syrup, zucchini bread, juicy tomatoes fresh from Grandma's garden.

Indeed, their house is the only house from my childhood that I can still visit. One of the most important trips we made during our time in Indiana was the drive up to Marion to visit my grandma, sharing some of the magic of the place with Madeleine. She loved the piano, sitting up on the bench first thing in the morning, and enticing Grandma over to play a few familiar tunes.

Matter Park

2011-06-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

When my cousins and I played here as kids, there wasn't a playground like this...

Fitting in time for a run...

2011-06-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

The morning before we headed out on a red eye flight to Indiana, Madeleine and I made time for a morning run/walk...

At 1.5 miles, I asked, "Do you want to turn around now? We'll go 3 miles."
Maddie replied, "No. I want to go 4 miles. This is fun!"
We made it 3.2. Great start to our day!

Em's Game

2011-06-17T09:11:00.000-07:00

Faerieworlds...

2011-06-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Last days of Kindergarten

2011-06-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

Bella's Birthday...

2011-06-12T08:06:00.000-07:00

On our very first visit to Madeleine's preschool, she made fast friends with another little blond-haired girl. Over the past three years, they have reunited, often by chance: at the pool, swim practice, park, and birthday parties. They instantly pick up where they left off, happily playing with an ease and mutual respect and understanding.

Fro Yo with Friends

2011-06-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

Camping in the backyard...

2011-06-04T08:18:00.000-07:00

when the weather warms enough, usually in May, we spend a night camping in the backyard. This year, a curious little visitor cam to see what this new structure was all about.

Mount Pisgah on a cloudy afternoon...

2011-05-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

Eugene Kids Triathlon

2011-05-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

With her training wheels secure, swim cap and goggles on, and running shoes at the ready, Madeleine was prepared for her very first triathlon. Transitions were a little bit of an issue, but she did a great job at her first triathlon.

Outdoors...

2011-05-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

Art at the library...

2011-05-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

Grocery list...

2011-05-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

Running...

2011-05-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

in the Eugene half marathon: Trevor and Mom. Madeleine and I headed over to Hayward Field with Trevor early in the morning, and after watching the start, made our way to Eugene City Bakery for a pastry, tea, and hot chocolate, before finding the nearby corner where we could catch a glimpse of Trevor on his way past mile 8. We then rushed to the finish line to cheer him on at the end of the race.

Since Mom was racing, too, we found her near mile 9, snapped a few shots, and then made it back to the grandstand to find Trevor in the growing crowd of finishers and to await her finish. So proud of both of them!

Birthday splash...

2011-04-08T20:06:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Madeleine's sixth birthday, we headed to Splash! and enjoyed an evening at the pool with some of her favorite friends.
... couldn't resist one last parting shot. Toes in the water, snacking on pizza after an evening of swimming.

Birthday breakfast...

2011-04-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

In past years, we have taken the day off together, enjoying a special day of birthday fun, all her favorites. This year, with school a priority, especially with those custom ordered Market of Choice mini cupcakes ready for her class birthday party, we celebrated early in the morning. I made waffles with maple syrup for her sixth birthday breakfast. She made a special birthday wish and blew out her candle before heading off to an exciting day of Kindergarten.

Pottery...

2011-03-22T09:32:00.000-07:00

Since we stayed home for Spring Break this year, Madeleine decided that it would be fun to spend an afternoon painting pottery together. We do this a few times a year, sometimes inviting friends and family to join in with their own creativity.

Ready for swim team...

2011-03-18T21:07:00.000-07:00

Forrest...

2011-03-09T19:44:00.000-08:00

is enjoying a rare moment of sun outside.

Our own girl detective...

2011-03-09T19:32:00.000-08:00

Today students at the after-Kindergarten program Madeleine attends were supposed to dress up like detectives for some sleuthing fun. Madeleine dressed up as Nancy Drew and took along a magnifying glass for good measure.

Magic Beans...

2011-02-27T17:28:00.001-08:00

Counting out 100 magic beans for the hundredth day of school celebration tomorrow. Madeleine didn't know what to bring until we saw South's production of "Into the Woods" last night; the Jack and the Beanstalk storyline inspired her to want to share the magic with her kindergarten friends.

Snow Day!

2011-02-24T09:54:00.001-08:00

Valentine's Day...

2011-02-14T09:41:00.000-08:00

Earlier today, Madeleine practiced her writing skills and wrote up our shopping list for these delicious red velvet cupcakes I found on one of my favorite baking blogs. We had a hard time crossing red food coloring off the list; it was sold out at three different grocery stores. Luckily, the fourth had two bottles left ton the shelf! These cupcakes are scrumptious, one of my new favorite recipes, and decorating them made for a fun Valentine's Day activity.
Amazing red velvet cupcake recipe: http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2010/11/08/red-velvet-cupcakes-cream-cheese-frosting/

Madeleine made each of her school friends valentines this year, horse themed of course, with little plastic horses and appropriate associated greetings. She wrote all the names herself, quite a feat, but I didn't manage to grab the camera to snap her in action.