Now A Family of *gulp* Six.

During bath tonight, I let Roman play while I went to the bathroom. His comment? "I hope you don't pee Skippy out!" Now, I thought this was actually pretty smart of him. I told him that it wouldn't happen, but before I could explain he says, "because Skippy comes from your privates." I then decided to explain that in a girl's body, there are 2 parts right next to each other - one that holds pee, and one that holds Charlie. And although they both come out near each other, there's no way Charlie would come out when I go to the bathroom. Roman still needed confirmation, however - "and he comes from your private area." And I agreed, yes, he does. Can you tell what he's learning about at preschool? We did sign him up for a sibling class at the hospital in January, and it includes a tour of the hospital. So we kill two birds with one visit, so to speak. Roman is pretty thoughtful about Skippy now, sometimes bringing me water "for you...

It's a couple days post-Christmas, and here's what the family is happy about: Doug: The book "Roadshow" from Steinmans and all the new shirts he got from his parents. Amy : The new nightgown from my parents (SO COZY!) and the gift cert. to JCP from VEs. And Santa's early present of a new digital camera! (I've been using my mom's almost-10-years-old one). Roman : Lego Star Wars II (Playstation) from Mama & Daddy, his "bendy guys" box hand-decorated by Baba, and the Criss-Cross-Crash Hot Wheels from VEs. Rebekka : Is so pleased with everyone's generosity that she talks about everything in turn. Her mom got her a digital camera so she's over the moon with excitement. Baby : Lots of newborn socks and a cute little hat to wear home from the hospital from Santa. Also a jack-in-the-box, which Roman never had. Extended family is probably pleased to finally know the winning name of Skippy, although Roman continues to call him Skippy. We don...

We arrived back home today, thankful for once that we only had to drive to our destinations for Christmas. Everyone we know of that had to fly, ran into mishaps. My own brother-in-law and wife spent 8 hours at the Atlanta airport Saturday when their flight was canceled; I called another friend who was supposed to be in the area from Colorado, and they had gotten hung up in Chicago. I had also hoped to see that friend's niece and family from Oregon-way... who knows if they made it on time. So in the end, it was just family to see, which is busy enough in itself. By night 3 of the 4-night excursion, Roman was pleading to come home because he missed his "cozy bed." I hear you, buddy. But the visits were great, we saw all the extended family (except my brother, who made it to New Mexico, and Doug's brother, who stayed put in South Dakota). Roman reports he had a happy Christmas, although the excitement just wasn't this year like there was last year; maybe because w...

I read the book "Where the Wild Things Are" to Roman tonight. It has been a long time since he picked that book, and I was very pleased. And what other phrase could be more appropriate for the 4-day slide toward Christmas Day? Roman already can't sleep, he's so excited. He knows that going to Grandma & Papa's (VE) is the start of presents, and Santa's visit isn't too far off now. Even Rebekka is as excited as she can be - the "law" came down that she has to be with us through the holidays and can't visit her own family until the 26th. But she's interested in checking out our parents' homes; especially mine, since it's also where I grew up. Our shopping is done, our packing is almost done, and we head out tomorrow. Hope everyone has a great celebration of the birthday of Jesus!

Hit with quite a snowstorm last night, we woke up to about 5 inches this morning, with probably another 2"since then. Sunday School was canceled, but we still attempted church - only about 50 of us managed to get there. It was kind of fun, nonetheless. Yesterday we did get a little bit more shopping done, but there are still about three more stores I have to hit to be fully done. I hate shopping after work, but it looks like that's my fate since we can't really get out today! Roman has been quite a challenge the past week or so. He has turned into quite a clingy boy; mostly with me, but sometimes with his Daddy. There are a variety of reasons for this - it's pretty normal at his age to do this again, we've had to spend a lot of time with Rebekka recently in meetings, and the obviousness of a new brother on the way has all combined to make Roman want our undivided attention. This has led to some really cozy moments - lots more cuddling, holding hands, sitting on o...

Here's the thing. I'd be overwhelmed anyway with the stuff going on this week, even if there was no religious holiday fast approaching. And throw in the fact I don't think I'll be done with that shopping until, oh, December 24, and you've got one stressed out pregnant lady. Ankles began swelling yesterday, fingers too - I don't have an ankle bone in the evening anymore. I actually flat-out couldn't fit into my shoes today. I think I'm going to buy a pair of soled "mocs" from K-Mart to wear at school. They'll go with everything. So I made a list of all the things I needed to get done before December 22nd, which is when my vacation officially begins. Two of the things - major things, in my opinion - that I really wanted to get done, are going to be put off. I guess this is God's way of teaching me how to prioritize. And a lot of the things I need to do are quick - a couple phone calls, a letter - but I have to organize my thoughts befo...

In the week since I had the stomach virus, things have been fine physically. Well, Rebekka has a cold, but we figure that's better than the other. Emotionally, we have found Roman to be more and more clingy. He spent the weekend at my parents but apparently day 2 brought lots of crying and wanting his Mama. He keeps asking to go with Daddy or I to work just so he can "keep our company." Sweet boy. For Rebekka, this week brought a couple issues crashing down upon her. Apparently she was up to her old tricks on the last few home passes, going out drinking with her brother after her mom went to bed. Mom finally lost it, calling the social worker and telling her she no longer wants Rebekka coming home. So not only is Bekka caught in lying & having possibly some pretty bad consequences come down on her again (boot camp, or worse - back in front of a judge), her mom doesn't want her at the house. This week will bring some interesting consequences and decisions, I think...

Right. I no longer have to live in fear, seeing that I was sick today with the nasty vomiting bug. Woke up around 3am and 4am with what I thought to be heartburn, seeing as I've never had it but am expecting to eventually. I made it out of bed at 6:40, took a shower, and then... the ol' tell-tale got hot and sweaty, then really shivery. I knew I was going to be in trouble. There must have been divine intervention, however, because I did not actually vomit until Roman was out of the house. So luckily he's not experienced his parents being sick yet, which I can imagine would be a scary thing. And, just like Roman, I was spot on, on the hour, the second time. But unlike previous times, we had filled Roman's prescription of Zofran, this neat little dissolvable tablet which is also safe for pregnant women. I took it and have not been sick since, although crampy, achey, and tired? - you bet. I'm having water and applesauce for dinner. The boys are going to McDonald's....

Last night's festivities were great. I even chanced a polka with my loving husband, but had to quit before it was over - an extra 15 pounds or so can really put a cramp in your polka-ing. We did go to the bookstore first, but only after we tried a movie (and I got the theaters confused, and we went to the wrong one). Ah well, good intentions. We got home, tired but happy. Rebekka thought she'd sleep with her door open because of needing heat in her room (first time she's tried this since she joined us). And then... 3:10am. Roman screaming, crying hysterically - he had thrown up in bed. I took boy duty, Doug took sheets duty, and we quickly closed Rebekka's door - nice try with the open door! We put Roman in bed with me for comfort, and Doug slept in Roman's bed. And then... 4:05am. I awoke to the sound of Roman getting sick again. He actually threw up two times in our bed before I could get him out and into the bathroom. I took boy duty, Doug took sheets duty again,...

Roman went to sleep last night with visions of decorating the house for Christmas. He kept telling me in what order we were going to do everything... "tree, then the train, then the ornaments!" Doug went out first thing this morning to get our Christmas decorations from the storage unit. When he got home, Roman raced to the window and watched as each box came in. It turns out we need a new train around the Christmas tree. Forgot that the pistons on the main engine broke last year (too much weight from a little boy pushing it around on the carpet). So now the debate is, another big generic one or a Thomas one? Roman is wanting a Thomas one. I told Daddy I'd leave it up to him and Roman to work out. As we were decorating the tree, Roman was getting all "Norman Rockwell" on us. That's what we call it when anyone is trying to plan the "perfect" day. (Myself included in that, by the way.) Anyway, Roman told us that after the tree was decorated, it was...

I love the holidays, partially because I buy into the whole "make the house cozy" idea. I also BUY, as in purchase, into the holidays as well. I love buying new candles, ornaments, decorations, whatever. Winter also tends to bring out these tendencies in me, to make the house all cozy and warm. Well, this year is doubly hard because the pregnancy-nesting has begun. I want the house to be just the way I want it (or as close as possible) before Skippy arrives. And combine that with the holidays, and you've got a woman who wants to buy, buy, BUY! Today, for example, Doug mentioned that we should probably purchase a new shower rack. That got me to thinking about going to Bed, Bath, & Beyond. And THAT got me thinking about holiday placemats, and holiday napkins, and maybe a new candle because now that we don't have the cats we can light them, and.... So you see the danger. I think Doug may take my checkbook away soon!

First, a side note: Outlet malls are wonderful. Motherhood Maternity Outlet stores are even more wonderful. Parents who are willing to buy their surprisingly pregnant daughter a couple outfits, are the most wonderful. Thanks again! So I was reading my friend Cat's blog, who is pregnant and due a couple weeks after me, and she is getting anxious for the gender-revealing ultrasound coming up this week. Tuesday, I think. Anyway, mainly anxious about the deciding factor of BOY or GIRL. I mean, that really does plan your life out - is it black-and-blue or pink-and-white? Anyway, I made a comment that it doesn't really matter, because Roman has asked for Polly Pockets for Christmas. And Cat, this being her first child, didn't know what Polly Pockets was. And I thought to myself... gosh... I've been in this underground Kid Culture for three years and already have forgotten what it was like to be a newbie . So this post is for Cat, and anyone else who wants to know about my boy...

About 100 Pilgrims (who were Congregationalists, by the way) arrived in the New World. By fall of 1621, only about 50 total remained; 22 grown men, and the rest women and children. Even though things were already tense with the neighboring Natives, the Wampanoag, the Pilgrims decided to hold a harvest feast (which was common in England) and invite the neighbors. According to religious customs, it could not be a religious day of feasting, for only the governor could declare that. Anyway, about 90 Natives showed up, including the chief. There is debate whether it was the chief's entire extended family, or just his warriors. Can you imagine being a Pilgrim woman and having 90 hungry Natives show up in your camp? I can barely cook for 4 some evenings. Well, it turned into a 3-day feast, and during the feast some Natives went out and shot some deer to help with the celebration. Otherwise, they ate fish, corn meal, various fowl, squashes, beans, and dried fruit. Mmmm. Well, being a h...

Yesterday at school, my class joined Bill Nelson's class for a presentation. Bill and I didn't have much to do, so we were sitting in the back catching up. I was kind of slouched back and noticed that Skippy was really moving around and kicking. I looked down and... oh wow, oh gross... my stomach was actually moving . Like, thumping, and... moving . Bill even saw it and thought it was amazing. Of course, Doug hasn't seen it, but luckily he thinks it's funny that Bill Nelson experienced it. When Doug puts his hand on my belly to feel Skippy, all movement ceases until he moves his hand. We think maybe his hand is so warm, or so scary, that Skippy just relaxes - or freezes - until that weirdness passes. My "consultants" at school tell me it doesn't matter, eventually he won't help but feel and notice it. But for the meantime, I've decided it's kind of cool, as long as I don't think about it too long.

Roman had diarrhea for the first time in his life last night. I tell you, those Russians grow 'em strong - he's only thrown up once, too, and that was from a virus. I think it was just too much "crap" since Halloween; candy, cookies, ice cream cake for Bekka's birthday, etc.... he was up three times early this morning. I took the 4:00am crying-call (the third of the night) and ended up making him a jelly sandwich (by this time he was hungry, too), and then crawling in bed with him and rubbing his back until he finally fell asleep. Doug woke us up around 6:30am, but needless to say the whole family is a bit tired. We're doing Movie Night tonight. I guess just a sneak preview of what's to come when Skippy arrives! Skippy has been busy plumping the pillows or something in my uterus, but now there's a definite rhythm to when I feel him moving around. I notice him first thing in the morning, then again around 10-11am... awake through 4th hour, then he'...

Today I have taken the day off. It's lovely. I'm about ready to head in for a nap, after doing some little things around the house. I actually went downstairs twice (stairs leave me winded now, all this extra weight!) to do laundry - yes, I remembered how. Had a lot of little notes to catch up on, some address changes with friends, little requests and a Christmas list to update. My mental health day serves another purpose, however - the person that is the candidate to take my classes when I start maternity leave is subbing for me today, and again at the end of the month when I have a curriculum day to attend. I left things to actually teach, rather than busy work, so he can get the feel of the kids and if this is going to be a spot he wants. Hopefully I'll return to a good review tomorrow. Roman is obsessed with letters and spelling now. He wants to sound out and spell everything he hears. The English language is so frustrating, however! The poor boy can't keep his Cs...

Middle school students are blind. Here they have a 5-months-pregnant teacher in their midst, wearing maternity clothes since month 3 seemingly, and they just don't see it. My belly "popped" this past weekend - I am really, really showing now. Even when I wear black, or something very baggy, you can still tell - this is more than gaining weight. It's a pregnant belly. The big celebration this week is Doug's announcement of, "honey, your belly has grown past your boobs!" I have mixed feelings about the kids knowing. In formal school rules, you send a letter home notifying the parents of an impending leave, who is going to fill the absence, etc. You do this between 60 & 90 days before maternity leave is expected to start. Speaking of which, I should write that letter to HR pretty soon. Anyway... so my principal said he'd like to send a letter home at Christmas. This is fine with me; send it over a break, so I don't get questioned and all in clas...

It's difficult to get pictures of Rebekka without her squinting like Popeye (or drooling, as she puts it), so today is just a picture of our boys. An adorable shot of Roman that was taken at preschool (don't worry grandparents, you've got a copy coming!). And a couple ultrasound pictures, since I can't resist. But no, I am NOT publishing Skippy's penis for the world to see. Below: his left hand showing that he already knows sign language Below: The right foot, which I feel quite a bit now Below: The "crosshairs" are measuring his eyes; nose, chin, and bulbous chest follow to the right (he's lying on his back, looking directly toward you) And our darling Roman, who took an awesome picture this year.

While most people know the important part by now - it's a boy! - there are more details that I will elaborate on here. My 7:30am appt. was canceled at 6:45am, disappointing everyone in the family. They called back around 8:15am and said that they had appts. available in Southfield. With some quick arranging, Doug and I agreed to a 10am appt. I had to quickly get people to cover my classes, I picked up Roman, Doug picked up Rebekka, and we arrived in time. It was a nice setup, a little screen for me to view from the "table." You know, it's a bunch of white matter floating around until she pointed out body parts and then - holy crap! - there's a baby in there. And it was just amazing to see. Double amazing, because this was the first appt. Doug could make. His first time hearing the heartbeat, and just experiencing the baby, so that was neat. And watching him point things out to Roman on the screen, and Roman's amazement as well - that just made me very happy....

I've been forming a lot of thoughts since July. I've been scolded and comforted for being negative about pregnancy. As the date of ultrasound draws closer and the baby is becoming more "real" in the belly, I thought it time to express more thoughts. The most obvious problem with growing a life is that it's all me. Doug has no idea what's going on, Doug's body isn't changing, and Doug isn't finding it challenging to do normal everyday things. He is a great support, but still - it's me. Many women like this, gives them a feeling of superiority I think - that's what I take out of their discussions. However, adoption was so much better. The ups and downs, the reactions to news, the celebrations and frustrations... experienced together. Equally. I'd still rather get on a plane to Moscow (twice!) than have to give birth. The growth of a baby inside my belly is odd. It's at both times amazing in a miracle-from-God kind of way, and quite d...

It's not often that Doug's high school and my high school interact. Ever. Except for football, and that's only in the playoffs. Occasionally. Well, they met Friday night on the football field in St. Joseph. St. Joe Bears (Amy) won, but GR Christian High Eagles (Doug) put up a heck of a fight. Here's hoping St. Joe gets to play here at Ford Field Thanksgiving weekend.

I'm pregnant. I know this to be true if only because of my hormones. I have zits where a person shouldn't have zits (my neck?! Come on!). I am definitely beginning to have odder cravings (for lunch? Spinach & feta omelet with a side of fries, please. Thank goodness for Coney Island restaurants). And as mentioned before, the fact that I am crying... all the time. If I go a day without having a good 5-10 minute bawl, I mark it as an extraordinary day. Last week, I cried when Doug changed the channel to the Weather Channel. Yesterday, Doug and I were catching up with each other and reading the newspaper while Roman played. I just started crying. No reason, really. Doug asked what was going on, and I just pointed to the clock. Apparently, because it was 5:35pm, and time to cry. Doug is a superstar husband. He's researched all the chemical and hormonal changes my body is going through and is most understanding. He commends me for not being as "crazy" as he expe...

Roman. Roman, Roman, Roman. Stubborn, wants to be in control, doesn't follow directions, Roman. Roman thought he'd have some quiet fun by repeating the word "penis" over and over to his friend Ethan, to make him laugh during Circle Time. He was caught and told it was a word that shouldn't be used at that time, and to stop. He kept doing it. He was told to stop again. He finally did. When I asked him about what happened, he lied. He said he never said that word. When I kept pushing, he finally admitted it. When I then asked him about saying it even though his teacher said to stop, he lied again . I finally did get him to admit the truth. But the damage was done ~ not the first time he hasn't done what a teacher has told him (the third in as many weeks, I believe), but this time he lied to me twice . So a firm consequence was in order. After talking it over with Daddy (who was going to be TOO firm, in my opinion) and my own ideas (too lenient, in Doug's opin...

I am 17-1/2 weeks currently (actually, I'll flip to "18 weeks" on Monday). According to babycenter.com, my current Internet bible, Skippy/ette is the size of a large onion. Like Doug says, "we're not talking red onion, we're talking Spanish onion." Anyway, for the last couple weeks we've read that women at my weekage can feel the baby move if they lay real still on their backs ~ that it would feel like a "flutter" or "bubbles." Well, a couple times I thought I felt it but couldn't be sure, so figured nah, it will come eventually. Well, eventually was this morning. We were riding in the car to Kalamazoo to cheer on the Broncos at Homecoming (unfortunately they lost), and I was just thinking about whether I was hungry or thirsty or just bored, when I had the weirdest sensation - like butterflies in my bladder. I thought about it, and then it happened again, like the chills you get when someone runs their finger up/down your s...

I believe I am secretly a Libertarian. My school has a mix of Republicans, Democrats, and "who cares" so political talk at lunch is always interesting. A liberal coworker sent the following link to a few of us, which if you take the time to answer and adjust your priority scale, will help find the presidential candidate that has beliefs similar to yourself. And here are my results... http://www.selectsmart.com/president/2008.html 100% Theoretical, nonexistent candidate 63% Alan Keyes, African-American Republican 60% John Edwards, Democrat 60% John McCain, very moderate Republican 57% Barack Obama, Democrat 56% Tom Tancredo, Republican 54% Hillary Clinton, Democrat 54% Joseph Biden, Democrat 53% Rudolph Giuliani, Republican 53% Al Gore, Democrat (not announced) I keep telling anyone who listens that if they can find a qualified black candidate of the Republican persuasion, they will take the White House. Apparently Alan Keyes isn't that guy, since I haven't...

Yesterday and today were just one happy "yay" things after another. So I thought I would list them. Friday: Aztek retrieved from shop and rattle is fixed. Issue with rental car has been made to go away with no cost to us. Green bean casserole, which used to be the bane of my dinner-existence as a child, was not only good on Thursday, it was good as leftovers! We went to a football game to see one of my former students play. Roman was awesome. So good, we stayed until the end. Roman couldn't wait to meet his first football player. We got to go out on the field and everything, which thrilled Roman to run into the end zone with his Daddy. Roman remained a sweet boy all night. Saturday: Even though I was "on duty" to get up with Roman (6:30am!) Doug did anyway. I took Rebekka to a meeting at a mall and Roman and I wandered for an hour. He was sweet, again. While gone, the carpet cleaners came and cleaned our entire house. Got home, had lunch. Rebekka and I went...

This morning, Roman was watching "Curious George" on PBS. It was an episode about the meaning of picture-signs, and that the big red circle/slash means "no." George, at the end, made a "no dinosaurs" sign to put on his bedroom door. Roman thought this was a great idea, and wants to make a "no monsters" sign for his bedroom. As we were driving down our street this morning after discussing signs, Roman saw the "no parking" signs - a big P with the red circle/slash. He was very excited. "Look, Mommy, no Ps! I want that sign! So, when a P tries to get in my room, we can stop it and not let it in!" I wanted to laugh so hard, and so loud, but I just chuckled and said I hadn't seen any letter Ps in the neighborhood. Then we went back to discussing other signs. Baby news: I'm officially 16 weeks, so I will write to those who don't check the blog and give them an "I'm fine" update. Nov. 2 is our scheduled ...

Ack! I get this question a lot nowadays. I told my mom the truthful answer the other day and I don't know whether she found it funny or was hoping for a better answer. "Regular," is my answer. As in poop. Personally, I enjoyed my slightly-constipated existence pre-pregnancy, and the fact that I poop 2x a day now is rather irritating. Besides that, I'm very thirsty. Since about last Wednesday I've been struggling with dizziness, light-headedness, and downright vertigo at times. I tried all kinds of things - more sleep, more food, less sugar, and skipping Coke altogether (all that did was make me dizzy with a headache). I finally figured it out - water. I need lots, and lots, and LOTS of water. So I borrowed Roman's "Fun at the Fair" sippy cup that holds about 16 oz. and have drank down 2 of those (including ice) today. Even at church, I was sucking on that thing. Besides not being near as hungry, my vertigo has definitely lessened. So, water it...

I'll admit it. I've got a big butt. Big thighs, too, which is why I buy "women's" sizes instead of "misses." Much more comfortable, roomy, doesn't cut off blood flow when you've had a meal. Anyway... As my identically-pregnant friend has put it on her blog, you can't find plus-size maternity anywhere in real life. Only on the Internet, where you have to guess at what size might be right. And one size from JCP is not the equivalent size at Old Navy, I've found. Not to even mention Motherhood Maternity, which charges $40 for every shirt. And, don't forget plus-size also means plus-a-few-more-dollars. Usually $5. So I've struggled with my weight anyway. I lost 30 pounds on Weight Watchers before we traveled to Russia in 2004, and gained it all back within a year... then plus a bit more. I think I'm probably the only adopter who gained weight in Russia. It's been hard enough to find regular clothes that fit over the past year...

Roman has sprouted another few inches over the summer, and we realized going through his closet and drawers, that most of his long-sleeve shirts, and definitely his pants, aren't going to fit this fall/winter. I cleaned out what I knew wasn't going to work, and he ended up with 1 long-sleeve shirt and 2 sweater vests. Problem with pants is, he's skinny (like slim) but long. Flannel-wise, he's good - he's got some cute button-downs. But t-shirts, there's a problem. So I went off to Kohl's with my "extra 15% off" coupon to see if I could get some adjustable-waist pants, or even some slims, and pick up a couple long-sleeve shirts & jammies too. Well... what a landmark day. Roman has officially grown out of the "T" for Toddler section, and is in the "Boys" section. We crossed the aisle. He's officially a BOY. While I was thrilled with this, pants-and-jammies-wise, I really am not thrilled with t-shirt selection. I think som...

We had a special treat today of Grandparents VE offering to take Roman for the night. I chose to spend the day doing very little work, a little shopping, and a lot of watching t.v. Doug changed oil on one of the cars, mowed the lawn, & seeded and fertilized the yard. Rebekka did laundry all day, cleaning every thread of cotton she owns, I think. So as we were reflecting on day at dinner, Doug says, "well, I think we all got a lot accomplished." I piped up that perhaps I was a little lazy, but then said... "Hey, I was VERY busy. I'm growing a life over here!" Doug and Rebekka laughed, and Doug said, "Well, maybe you divided a few cells..." Too funny. Tummy update: Just about grown out of one of my dress pants, and my jeans that used to be slightly baggy in the tummy/waist are now tight. Have graduated to wearing all my XL t-shirts that used to be roomy. Problem with those, is that they either advertise bands I've seen in concert or the Corner Ba...

Poor guy. Roman is having a hard time cuddling with me already, what with the "don't stick your elbow there!" "Don't bash your head into Mama's belly!" and last night's favorite, which almost made me toss him out of his bed because it was so tender, "will you STOP bouncing your head against my breasts!" While most of the unpleasantness has gone away (nausea, feeling like I'm in a fog, constant hunger) some things have remained or gotten worse (breast soreness, every-three-hours hunger, having no memory whatsoever). I am officially in my 13th week. I have identified 2 dress shirts I can already no longer wear, and my t-shirts are pretty much a joke - not because of my belly yet, but my breasts are so much larger that my shirts are either too short, or too snug. So I've already worn a maternity shirt (ahh... length and room!) and after trying on 2 different tops today, finally to go with the long drape-y one, I think it's time to ...

Keeping in mind our first child, consider the following possibilities of names for our unborn: Roman and: Greek Roman and: Ramona Roman and: Ramone Or we could combine names, like this: D'amelia Romy Rug Amman Any other good ones you can think of?

I haven't yelled at Doug for anything stupid (yet), but I burst into tears at the slightest things. The smallest events that before would not even phase me, cause me to break down into torrents of grief. Weird. Wish I had the emotional highs that go with this form of manic depression, but alas... I am getting more excited about the impending baby. I don't think I'll ever be one that is THRILLED (as everyone keeps saying I should be). Perhaps because it was unplanned and really, really not expected. I feel bad, because I know that Doug is really excited. Even Roman is coming around, and Rebekka thinks everything is great about it. Here is what I think when people say "aren't you just THRILLED?!" No. I've got a growing parasite that is wreaking havoc on my body, one that I never planned on having and frankly, was okay with not having. I spend much of my time obsessing over miscarriage and Downs Syndrome, amongst other genetic abnormalities, because I don...

There you have it. You've all received mail, if you're the kind I speak to at least every 3 months (unless you live overseas - sorry Beth!). And I'm with child, just turning into my twelfth week. To summarize: Harry Potter weekend. Doug and I rented a hotel room, ate at Ponderosa, I ate almost an entire bag of gummy bears, and the book was read. Sunday, felt bad. Maybe it was the gummy bears. Monday, felt worse. Maybe it was Ponderosa. Tuesday, called Doug at work and told him something just wasn't right, I couldn't shake the nausea. He offered to buy a home pregnancy test. I told him he was mad, but if he wanted to waste the money, so be it. Yeah. Well. It was positive. Found out on Tuesday, July 24. Rebekka came to stay July 26. Talk about a crazy week! So all throughout our trip to San Fran, Family Camp, and the start of school...nausea. But that's been it, pretty much. Feelings lots weird cramps, aches, things like that - my uterus moving around, and such. I...

Watch your "snail" mail, gentle readers... a major topic change of my blog is coming soon! In fact, even the title may have to be changed...

Yesterday was something else. I had Open House in the evening, so just stayed here at school to prep, have dinner with a couple coworkers, and do an errand. When I got home after a very long day on my feet, Rebekka was waiting to tell me all about her first day. She sounded like she enjoyed it, as much as a 16-year-old can. She finally got her schedule (on the first day, that morning) and she is a sophomore, credit-wise, which we were beginning to suspect would happen. She is determined to take summer school and possibly night classes if she can swing it next semester. We told her to just pass this semester, first. I'm having fun being on the "other side" of teachers for once. For instance, I didn't realize how much you could tell about a teacher from their parent letter. I predicted accurately what a couple of her teachers were like, down to age & craziness-level. I will have to go back and review my own letter! I also had yet another "first" at my o...

Our house had a storm cloud over it on Saturday. As most of you may know, the "BIGGEST UPSET IN THE HISTORY OF FOOTBALL!" happened in Ann Arbor, when Appalachian State beat Univ. of Michigan. Doug took it, overall, quite well - aside from throwing his hat on the ground. He actually missed the last play on the radio, which I think was good. Too much tension, really. More sulking ensued on Sunday when all the newspapers had it... and I'm sure more will happen tomorrow, when the actual rankings come out. Ah well... I'm at least glad he doesn't work with so many MSU fans now. School begins tomorrow for Roman and I, and Rebekka will get her schedule as her school starts Wednesday. I think it will be sad news for her - credit wise, she's probably a sophomore. Tomorrow will be telling for her. I have a half day but this is the first year I feel entirely unprepared. Among the blogged activities (and those yet to be blogged) happening at home the past few weeks, I hav...

My friend's husband's sister (got that?) recently returned from Ethiopia with their new daughter. She's made the comment on her own blog that she is having a hard time organizing thoughts and starting to blog about their trip. For a variety of reasons, I know where she's coming from. I don't think I blogged much about Russia when we returned... the impact of a new kid in the house superceded for a long our impressions of our journey. Plus, we had the benefit of computer access (for a price, as everything in Russia) so we emailed our loved ones the pertinent information. We verbalized a lot with our pictures to those who were looking at them, but blogging... not so much. On the other hand I think, for people who are emotionally invested, although far away, from the new arrival probably want to hear about an adoption trip. People who are adopting soon, too, want details. It's hard... when pregnant, everyone close can share in the bulging belly, the monthly updates...

I went back today for the beginning of marathon meetings - 2-1/2 days of designing formative & summative assessments. Ack. Gag. Although it's not as bad as it sounds... the 8th grade Social Studies dept., usually known for being better friends with each other than most other departments (and therefore get less work done), actually created "Power Standards" and began aligning them with the summative assessments we already have. Impressive, no? Roman is showing all the signs of too much excitement back to preschool. Some of his buddies are trickling back from a summer away (Garrett was there today!) and his exhaustion and crying over silly things tonight is proof of an exhilerating day. Rebekka goes tomorrow for orientation from 8-11am; meet principals, tour the school, "student leaders" give talks, etc. I, meanwhile, am going to play the role of pushy parent and ask the office why her counselor hasn't called to create a schedule for her. School starts nex...

I did forget a funny thing he said in the car. Roman kept trying to roll down the window in the car. When we asked him why he had to have it down on the highway, he said "I need some fresh country air!" Too funny! I've attached a picture of Rebekka to the bottom of the post, although she doesn't look quite like this now. She had an appt. at a salon today (for free) and got herself a new hairstyle and some more natural-looking blonder highlights. Got herself some bangs and everything! It's been quite exciting around here the past two days due to the big thunderstorms. The civil siren went off both last night and tonight. Here they are very anxious; they set off that stupid horn just for "severe thunderstorms." On the west side, I don't think they ever use them except for high winds or tornadoes/water spouts. Here, now, I've heard it 3 times in six years. I don't believe I ever heard it living on the coast. Anyway, we headed to the basement las...

In the car ride on the way home from camping today, Roman was thoroughly entertaining. He would ask random questions, or say the funniest things. Here are two of my favorites: "Why do people have watches?" "Daddy, I love you. I love you as much as I want to play with the Legos in the box when we get home." Adventures for us this week: register Rebekka for school, get her state ID (so she can open a bank account), I am going to work a morning at school when kids pick up their new schedules, perhaps host one of Rebekka's friends from the girl's home for dinner (we've met the friend's family already), it's "Castles" week at preschool for Roman (dragons and make your own shield!), and I have to start getting my parent letter retyped and prepared. I have one week of summer vacation left.

We all had a vacation, and we all came back somewhat refreshed. Roman spent 5 days with my parents, Rebekka spent 5 days with her family, and we spent 5 days in SF with Doug's family. So everyone was happy. We missed Ro like crazy, worried about Rebekka, but still ended up having a very good time! We did Napa and hit 5 wineries, took a trolley "bus" tour, visited Alcatraz, and did some shopping both in the "high end" district & in Chinatown. Had some amazing meals, too. Even a 3-hour time change got us this time, however... we must be getting old. Posted all my pictures over at Snapfish. Email me if I didn't send you the link to see them. Riding a trolley car tour Waiting for my prison supplies at Alcatraz Checking our course on the Pampanito submarine

This is the first summer I think I'm looking forward to summer ending. Perhaps because so much is happening in August that I'm feeling rushed. Got a trip to California, a Family Camp, and then I'm at school. Rebekka changes things too, we have to help register her at school one of these days. Plus, my days here at home now are different than previous typical summer days, and I want to go back to what is familiar. Although at the same time, I'm not ready to meet parents, set up rules again, etc. I feel that my brain hasn't had enough "down time." In a couple weeks Roman will be back at his preschool for 2 days, and I'll be able to head into school and start organizing my space - and my head. This past week seemed so SLOW to me. So different with a third person around. It's not bad, just different. I'm in charge of Roman and I tell him how it is. Now I have to check with Rebekka, arrange things with her schedule. And Roman at VBS was strange ...

Today, finally, FINALLY... we applied for Roman's "delayed registration of foreign birth." Meaning, he can have a Michigan-looking birth certificate. We should have done this when we first got back, but we had to go downtown Detroit, Doug had to take a day off, etc., etc... and the months flew by. So we turned in the paperwork today at 1:30. When the cert. arrives in the mail, we can apply for his American passport, just like all the other millions of citizens who have to do it before 2008. But this really is the last step of the adoption... before he's 18 and has to (hopefully) give up his Russian citizenship. Otherwise, all is well here. Learning each other's schedules, habits, tastes. It's weird not having any time to myself at ALL now. Usually I would have Roman's rest time, or when he was at preschool... but not anymore! And talk about taxi driving... Rebekka was still going back for art classes to finish some things, so I'd take her out there, ...

Rebekka has been here for 24 hours now, and all is going well. She has homework of making out a schedule of her days, so that's been easy to do for the next few days. A large grocery shopping excursion was accomplished today at Meijer and we're all much happier now that snacks and real meal ingredients are back in the house. Tomorrow is the first Saturday I'll be home since June 16. Amazing, isn't it? But clothes shopping is on the agenda for Rebekka, so that will be fun. She's a typical teenager - a ton of hygiene products (as she calls them), lotions, etc. She's happily downloading music on my old computer as she has lost a lot of the CDs she used to have. And she made a trip to the library already and came back with a great book. So things are settling in... next week Roman is in VBS all week and so is home EVERY afternoon. May have to take a trip to the local pool, as Reb. has been asking about that as well. We'll see!

Tonight has been busy, putting the burgundy room together as Rebecca's room. The futon was moved downstairs, and a Monday night shopping spree at IKEA got us the basics - bed, beside table, mattress, bedside lamp, linens, a mirror, etc. Roman got some things out of it too, because we didn't want him to feel left out -and because it's time to upgrade him into "young kid" stage from the nursery colors. Roman chose to make his room a castle. Weird, huh? We totally thought he was going to go for the outer space idea. But he was taken with the dragons and the flickering torch lamp (which I now want a dozen lining my hallway). So he got a new carpet, the flickering torch lamp, and some shelves that hang for lightweight "treasures." I'm thinking of designing a banner for him to hang on the wall. Rebecca arrives officially at 3pm tomorrow. There will be a roundtable discussion of her expectations both at our house, and through her outpatient counseling. ...

She can't go by "the girl" any longer. Her name is Rebecca. We had our first meeting tonight with her, about an hour. We both took an instant liking to her - and both secretly wish this wasn't a 90-day placement! She came in and introductions were made. Roman and I gave her the tour of the house, and she was very quiet, soaking it all in. When we went downstairs she asked me a couple questions about teaching. Roman was great at filling in the gaps, showing her Star Wars characters, bouncing on his bed, etc. Back upstairs, Sarah (the social worker) said "Well, why don't you start off giving them some background on why you are here today." Rebecca was clearly nervous about telling us this, did not make eye contact. Then she had written a list of questions she had for us, which were very good and well thought out. There was no awkward silence during the visit, which is good. Arrangements were made for a longer visit this coming Tuesday; she will be brou...

I don't know what it's like for all teachers, I can only attest to the ones I work with. We joke about our summers and how by the time we decompress from the previous school year, and start to gear up for the next school year, we have, like, a month of summer. I write this because I am going to give you a sneak peek into my teacher's brain. When do teachers start thinking about the next school year? Well, for one coworker it's July 5. He says he gets bored after that and wants to go back and teach. Another teacher says its August 1st, because it's the month we have to report back. For me, it begins in small amounts. Last week, for instance, I was on the computer and a thought came to me out of the blue - "I should probably start cleaning up and updating my parent letter." Then I thought, "Egads! I still have a couple weeks." So I put it out of my mind. Then a coworker called a couple days after and casually mentioned she was thinking of stopping ...

The past 3 days has brought an interesting twist. First (and brief) was the announcement that a new principal has been selected for my school. It's the guy I had been hoping for, not knowing the out-of-district candidates, so I am pleased with that. I actually met him my first day working for the district as a substitute, and know his wife as she's a social studies teacher at one of the high schools. So things are positive on that front. Here's to hoping our VP decides to take a leave of some sort, and we can get some discipline going too. Or maybe the new principal will force some changes on that front... one can hope. Next, is that we've got a teenager on the horizon. Got a call Monday from Sarah, our social worker. She has the complete opposite situation than what we were expecting - a temporary girl to house. Not that she's a girl temporarily, but that she would be with us hopefully only 90 days. We've decided to say yes, move forward and see what this brin...

Roman said the oddest thing tonight, but it was very touching. My guess is that he is learning about accepting "different" people at Red Bell, but it was amazing nonetheless. He had been playing Lego Star Wars with his Daddy, and they can choose to be different characters. He also had been looking at his book with all the different characters. Roman out of the blue said, "Know what? The weird people in Star Wars are just people... they're not weird, they are people." We agreed and Doug said that it was really good of Roman to realize that. Then Roman kept going... "Even though they look weird, they are not, because they are people. And we don't have to understand... you just click on them anyway." He said this while crossing his little arms on the table and resting his chin on his arm. And for a 4 year old it was so profound, it brought tears to my eyes. Now, I don't want to give Red Bell all the credit - a pat on our own backs because we'r...

The name itself oozes excitement, doesn't it? Our family went to the air show on Sunday hosted by the Yankee Air Museum . I went to an air show once in Kalamazoo, but Doug (and obviously, Roman) had never been. We met up with some friends when we got there, who are plane enthusiasts and have been going for years. IT WAS AWESOME!! As we pulled into line to pay the gate fee, an F-16 "Fighting Falcon" was having its fun blasting around. I think we all got neck cramps trying to see out the windows watching it shoot straight up into the sky, do loop-de-loops, and all kinds of cool stuff. As we parked, the F-16 then escorted 3 P-51 Mustangs around the airfield. As with any WWII aircraft, I got tears in my eyes - I've never seen a P51 fly before. How very cool. You can see the whole schedule of events that we saw if you click here . We walked around the static displays and Roman fell in love with the "shark plane," a P-40 painted with big scary teeth. There was als...

Roman has been calling the 4th of July "USA Day." Cute little ring to it. We went to Greenfield Village last night for their "Salute to America." Gates opened at 6pm, picnics were allowed. We went with Roman's friend Max and his mom, because dad is in Pennsylvania starting his new job. (side note: yup, it's true: the economy IS forcing people out of Michigan). Anyway, we secured a spot on a more level area of the hill overlooking the food tent and the side of a stage. At 8:00pm there was a 5x flyby of a B-25D bomber from WWII, the same kind Doolittle flew over Tokyo after Pearl Harbor. It was SO cool. Doug was so entranced he didn't even remember to take a picture. He reports the bomb bay doors were open; Roman and I were in a different spot at the time and Ro didn't like the noise at first, so I didn't notice. What chills I got, though, to see that baby fly! At 8:30 the Detroit Symphony Orchestra began their concert of patriotic favorites. They ...