Journey to Merrin Francis

Visit from Bella and last blog post

2011-08-08T22:47:00.000-05:00

I thought it would be a great way to end my blog with a visit from one of our China sister's. It was so awesome to see Bella and her Mom and to see the girls together again. We had a great visit and they had a lot of fun playing together, Merrin is definitely the spicier one and as you can see even though Bella is about a month younger she is definitely the taller one!

Thank you Bella for my nightgown!

Eating breakfast together, Merrin had to move her chair to be right next to Bella

Waiting in line at Cafe du Monde

YUM!

Giving Bella a pedi!

Painting in PJ's!

So Cute!

Having this blog has been fun and I love looking back at all the old post and so does Merrin, but I really need to concentrate on some other projects that I have been trying to start forever! I will still be keeping up with all my blogger friends!

Blessings,

Wendy

Birthday Pics

2011-08-08T21:19:00.000-05:00

Birthday Girl

Handprint Birthday Cake

Party Spot....Pinocchio's Whale

Merrin and her buddy Caleb playing in the fire truck

Pirate Ship

Having fun at her party!

Getting her face painted for the first time ever, she chose a pink star!

Singing Happy Birthday with her best buds by her side, Emma and Caleb. Thanks Patricia for the great pics!

Make a wish sweet girl!

Opening her presents with some help from Braiden

Merrin and her cousin Katie. She had so much fun with her cousin's in town and so happy they were able to be here for her special day!

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!

2011-08-02T14:02:00.000-05:00

Our baby girl is 3 today, it is hard to believe that just 2 years ago this past Sunday we had returned home from our trip to China, time is just flying by! She was so excited about turning 3 and has been singing happy birthday to herself for months. We celebrated Saturday with family and friends at City Park's Storyland and she loved every minute, it was the perfect day, hot but perfect! I am looking forward to see what the 3's bring, she has grown so much this past year and is one funny little girl! She loves to sing and dance and her favorite song is Twinkle Twinkle or as my little yat says tinkle tinkle little staaar, she is so like her Mom!! She always tells me I am her best friend or she will say you are the best, how cute is that! She took it upon herself to start sleeping in her own bed in the beginning of July and was doing great, not staying in her bed all night but it was a start. Just the past few nights she has not wanted to go to sleep in her room so before bed last night I said who is going to sleep in their bed tonight and she said very loudly "not me, I sleeping with Mommy and Daddy : )

She will be starting preschool after Labor day, just 3 days a week and only from 9-12 but I know she is ready and will love it, just not sure if this Mommy is ready!

I will post pictures of her party soon but here are some I took a couple of weeks ago of the birthday girl.

Happy Birthday Merrin Francis we love you so much!!!

2011-07-05T23:12:00.001-05:00

We took a road trip to Georgia for the 4th to visit one of my oldest friends, we have been friends since the 2nd grade! We packed a whole lot of fun into our 3 night visit, it was a great trip.

It did not take long for these two to start playing shortly after we arrived

At Georgia Tech for Riley's swim meet

Maggie and her Daddy and bitty baby Kate, both Merrin and Maggie named their babies Kate

Joey, Jack and Riley
After the swim meet we went and had lunch at the Varsity, I had never heard of it before but it was a fun place to go!

Loving Jack, let me just say we are in trouble when she gets older : )

After the Varsity the boys when to a Braves games and the girls did some shopping at Ikea and then went to the American Girl Bistro to have dinner and do some more shopping.

It was so cute to watch the girls with their babies they had a great time, when the waitress came over to take our order Merrin said "my baby is hungry and I want spaghetti & meatballs!

Kissing on baby Kate, how sweet

Getting ready to ride the carousel

Once Merrin had the hang of the vest she was all over the pool, her little legs did not stop moving!

So fun!

Gymnastics

2011-07-02T08:14:00.001-05:00

Merrin LOVES gymnastics the first class she wanted me to go with her and do the warm up part but after that she went on her own and has done so the last two classes as well. One of the other Mom said to me today, she never stops smiling, and it is true she is smiling and laughing the entire time and she will come up to the glass and wave at me. She thinks it is the greatest thing in the world that she gets a stamp, sticker and a sucker after every class : )

Happy Birthday Meghan

2011-07-01T06:30:00.001-05:00

Happy 22nd birthday Meghan! We love you!!

Showing Meghan the special picture she painted for her

So excited to sing Happy Birthday to Meghan

Haircut

2011-06-28T20:25:00.005-05:00

Merrin could not wait to get her haircut, Mommy had her haircut and ever since then she has been asking to go. The last time we took her it was not horrible but not great, this time as you can see she was loving it!

Princess Ballet

2011-06-22T09:00:00.002-05:00

We were invited to princess ballet by sweet Emma, it has to be the cutest class ever! Every week the teacher surprises the class with the princess they will be that day and everyone gets a costume to wear, this week was Sleeping Beauty. Merrin loved it and she did so good it was just priceless to see her face light up and to watch these two cuties just have so much fun. Thank you so much Emma and Patricia for inviting us! Go check out her pictures of the day here

Getting ready for class

Look how adorable, Emma is a pro!

One by one they had their turn to have the wand and spin around, Merrin took her turn and did great too!

She adored the costume and loved looking at herself in the mirrors.

Mommy is so proud of you Merrin!

After class we went and had breakfast then off for some shopping then some yummy yogurt. It was a fun filled day and it ended with Merrin taking her first Gymnastic class too. She did great and she loved that as well, hopefully I will get some pics next class.

Father's Day

2011-06-19T09:01:00.012-05:00

Joey and Meghan(2005)

This picture was taken on the way to dinner about 6 hours after Merrin was first placed in our arms. Happy baby, Happy Daddy!

We celebrated Father's day at our house and I BBQ some chicken, pork tenderloins and at Joey's request hot dogs and homemade chili. I am hooked on this site it is my new obsession. I made two different recipes for pork tenderloin and also this yummy appetizer of sun-dried tomato & basil and cream cheese spread. We had a great day celebrating with family and friends.

I really did not take but a couple of pictures that day and I am bummed that I did not get a picture of Joey, Meghan and Merrin together but I did download those two oldies but goodies.

Joey, if you ever read the blog (ha ha) I hope you enjoyed your day, you are "the best" as Merrin says and we love you lots!!!

Beach Trip

2011-06-12T22:32:00.001-05:00

Another free picture collage by Smilebox

My good friend Michele invited us to go to her place in Destin along with 2 other Mom's and their kids. We had such an awesome time, Merrin loved the beach and the water. When we went last year she loved running up and down the beach, believe me not a pretty site, so I was so happy that she was into building sand castles and we would take walks on the beach which I love. One day when we were walking she starting going up to everyone saying "Bonjour Bonjour" it was so funny and I had never heard her say that and had no idea where it came from. She just kept telling me when I asked "Merrin says it". I was finally able to get it out of her on the way home and she said "Mommy Dora says it", which she does on her show we taped last week, Dora the Explorer is her new BFF for now.

Greek Fest

2011-05-27T08:57:00.001-05:00

Eating tomatoes at the fest, this little girl loves them!

Flying high......one of her favorite things to do with her Daddy

Thanks David for sending me these pictures since I had forgotten my camera.

It was a fun night with our friends and we had missed the fest last year and the year before we had just received our referral of Merrin, we carried that picture around and showed anyone that would look. It was fun running into people we had not seen since and them being able to meet our sweet baby girl in person!

Mamere and Pops and Play date with Emma

2011-05-22T21:38:00.003-05:00

Playing in the pool with the Dad's at Mamere and Pop's.

Blowing bubbles with Emma

The pictures below are from a play date with Emma and more shots of the girls at Mamere and Pops. Emma spotted Mamere's shoes she made for the Muses parade she rides in and she had to have them, I think she can walk better then me in heels!
Thanks Patricia for letting me steal all these pictures from you!

Children's Museum & Crawfish boil

2011-05-21T20:55:00.005-05:00

I am finally getting around to updating this blog, I am still in May! We are loving the summer and are outside late almost every night Merrin loves riding her bike, swinging and it always ends with me watering the flowers and of course Merrin too!

This weekend we had gone to the Children's Museum they were having a little Asian Fest and we met Emma and her parents and had a blast.

The girls checking out there groceries

Making coffee and tea for their Mommy's

Then off to a crawfish boil at Uncle Darrin's

So yummy!

The kiddos holding up Granny, so funny!

Loving on Aunt Jamie

Referral Anniversary

2011-05-21T08:30:00.000-05:00

May 21, 2010

May 21, 2011

It was two years ago today and a day I will never ever forget. I can't even explain how it felt waiting for the child that was chosen to be yours to pop on the computer screen. This little girl has changed our family forever and she is such a blessing and truly a gift from God.

We love you so very much Merrin Francis!

Glimpse of our Weekend

2011-05-15T21:34:00.009-05:00

The weather was gorgeous this weekend and it was busy but that is how my little energizer bunny likes it! We started off Saturday morning at City Park where they were having an art market. We walked around and ate some lunch they actually had some great food and even had mimosa's too! We then headed to Uncle Brady's baseball game. Merrin loves her Uncle Brady, when we recently stayed with them she would follow him all over the house, I am sure he is very glad we are gone, ha! But really he is so sweet with her it is really cute. Merrin had a blast at the game I was a little worried on how she would do but we camped out all the way by right field which was great because that is where he plays and Merrin could pretty much go up and down the bleachers and scream "go Uncle Brady".

We are very proud of him they won the State Championship!!! It was really awesome I am so glad we were there to watch it all and celebrate with them.

Eating shrimp taco's and basil thyme and goat cheese fries, so yummy!

"Go Uncle Brady"

Brady #3

Swimming on Sunday with Daddy and Braiden

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T19:32:00.000-05:00

Ready to head to Aunt Lisa's for Mommy Day It was a beautiful day to celebrate and relax with all my family. I could sit out on my Sister's deck forever, love it!!

Aunt Lisa always has fun things for us to do!

Uncle Darrin and Meghan chilling with the kids

Ready for the sprinkler

Easter

2011-04-30T21:19:00.006-05:00

The night before we dyed eggs and made sugar cookies, Merrin was so excited to wake up to see what the Easter bunny left her. We headed to Mamere and Pops for an Easter celebration and the big Easter egg hunt. We were so excited that our friends Dennis and Patricia and sweet Emma were able to celebrate with us.

The next set of picture's were taken by Patricia I love all the ones she took and was so excited we finally were able to get a family shot, Thanks so much Patricia!

Emma on the hunt

My niece Reese looking for some eggs

Reese and Merrin

I love this one of Joey and Emma and Mamere in the background

Emma, Merrin, my nephew Brady and Uncle Bill
I love Brady's face in this picture!

Family shot (we should have told Meghan to wear peach or pink!)

Storyland

2011-04-26T09:19:00.005-05:00

After the Asian fest we headed to Storyland in City Park for a birthday party.
We love Storyland we go quite a bit during the summer.....always fun!

Merrin loves to blow bubbles
Sliding with Daddy

"Cheese"

They had a performance on the stage and she just stood and watch for a while but would not go and sit with the other kids.

Then "fairy Mother nature" handed her a wand and she as you can tell was thrilled. She was a little surprised when she took it back but she did go and sit and joined the show and was even happier when she gave out candy at the end!

Asian Fest

2011-04-23T13:07:00.003-05:00

The Asian fest was very fun the weather was beautiful and we had a great time hanging out with some of our friends. Merrin loves all the dancing and music so we hung out alot by the front of the stage. She was not into doing the crafts this year but we ate some good food and just enjoyed the day.

Merrin and Emma at the fest
Asian fest last year, they are such big girls now!
Merrin with Emma's glasses of course!

And after 1 week we finally were able to move back into our house, so happy we were home for Easter!

Swim Lesson #2 & some craziness!

2011-04-18T14:33:00.004-05:00

I am so happy to report that our second lesson went great! I spoke to the teacher on the phone the morning of her class and we talked about me getting in the water the next class if things did not get better. The Mommy and me classes at this school only goes up to age 2 but they would have me get in the water then ween me out. We also talked about me stepping away from the pool area but not out of the building where I could hear her and peak in but she could not see me . I must admit I was not crazy about the idea but she told me if I was not comfortable at any time I could come right back up. When we arrived we watched a bit of the class before hers and then when it was her turn she did start crying but I was able to get her in the water and hand her off to her teacher. I told her I was not leaving, she cried for about 2 minutes and then calmed down. She kicked, floated and played water games with her teacher! I was so proud of her! I could hear her asking the teacher "I see Mommy" and the teacher would say "yes Mommy is here and you will see her when your lesson is done and she would say "OK".

And for a little craziness in our lives we unfortunately have had to up and leave our house. We have a tree that is next to our house but not on our property that was struck by lightening recently and with the recent storms it has become so much worse. It is split from the bottom all the way up to the top it is a HUGE cypress tree. I don't want to get into to much detail but we have had two arborist out and both said the tree needs to come down and ASAP, there is no way to save it and they also advised us to get out until it is cut down. They think if it does come down it could land on our house and it will crush it to the slab, (just lovely but I am trying not to think about that part). I am thankful to have a place to stay (Joey's Dads) but I am hoping to get things resolved this week with the owners of the property, so just say a little prayer......please.

These pictures were taking a week ago when we had my friend and her two girls over. Merrin loves them and they keep her very busy so it was great we actually were able to enjoy some wine and just watch the kiddos play. Hopefully I will be back in my house so I can download the pics from this weekend we had a great time at the Asian Fest!

Cool Zoo

2011-04-08T09:01:00.004-05:00

Caleb checking out the scene

ummm I am not to sure about this place

OK this is fun!

Since the weather has been so great we decided to pick Caleb up from school and head out to try the new water park at the zoo, called the cool zoo. It was really neat and we will definitely try it again before school lets out and it gets crazy crowded. Merrin and Caleb were both a little scary of the scene and I was so glad I decided to bring a change of clothes at the last minute because I was soaked by the time we were done. I for some crazy reason thought I would be sitting under an umbrella watching those two run through the fountains, Ha Ha! But it was still fun and we can't wait to go back to the zoo for the Asian fest this weekend but I do think we will skip cool zoo this time!

First Swimming Lesson

2011-04-06T21:01:00.006-05:00

Ready to go!OK swim lesson's did not go so well and Mommy said she needed some more caffeine to take her through the day : ) We sat outside and enjoyed the beautiful morning and she once again tried talking up swim lesson's..... again!

So Merrin did not have a good lesson, she was the only student in class with two teacher's and I was right there with her not in the pool but right besides it. We arrived early so she could get a feel for the place and she loved watching the class before hers but when it was her turn the crying began. I did get her in the water but she cried and cried, both of the teachers were very good with her and she would calm down for a minute and start right back up again. They put a bunch of rubber duckies in the pool and told her if she took all the duckies out she would be able to get out. She did stop crying and starting taking the duckies out until she realized the other teacher was putting more in and she started crying and screaming "no no out duckies out", smart girl! I honestly thought she was ready we have been talking it up for weeks and just recently went swimming with her and it went great. She is scary of some situations and it takes her a while to get use to some things so I am hoping next week will be a little better, I am keeping my fingers crossed!!

Glimpse of our weekend

2011-04-05T08:49:00.008-05:00

We had two parties to go to this Saturday night, one was a patriotic crawfish boil for our cousin Alex who will be going overseas soon and one was for baby Ainsley. It was a wonderful weekend with family and friends, we are so proud of Alex and pray for his safe return home soon!

At Alex's party with Daddy Hanging with my Cousin Zoe

Dancing at Ainsley's party

Merrin and Ainsley......She loves babies!

Just not when Mommy is holding them!

Mr. Rankin showing Merrin how to play the guitar. He was so good with her she was fascinated with him and the guitar. He stopped and played some kiddie songs for her and she was loving it!

Helping Ainsley with her bottle, I love how she is concentrating so hard!

Some Bunny can't wait for Easter!

2011-03-30T12:50:00.004-05:00

Merrin is very excited about the Easter Bunny this year and she keeps telling me she is getting a big chocolate bunny! Although she is getting ready for Easter we have had to watch Mickey Christmas and Dora Halloween this week, as she would say "silly Merrin".

Weekend in Waveland

2011-03-14T21:03:00.006-05:00

We spent a fun filled weekend at Mamere and Pop's. We went to the beach and made sand castle's and went to Bay St. Louis. Every 2nd Saturday the shops by the beach stay open late and they have music, wine, cheese it is just a fun time and the weather was so nice. This Saturday you could purchase a pottery bowl and go to several stores where you could choose from different soups. Merrin LOVES soups so she thought this was just great! She had also had so much fun running, dancing and singing we will definitely do it again!

Loving the beach

I just love when she squats like this

So excited she found a shell, aka a rock!

On the town with Mommy

Eating soup with Daddy....notice the orange bowl she picked out on the table you don't actually put the soup in your bowl (my husband was very concerned about that before we arrived!)

We did a little photo shoot in her Mardi Gras dress since I am sure she won't be wearing this next year!

Whenever she sees flower she will stop and smell, so cute!

Happy Mardi Gras!!

2011-03-08T18:45:00.005-06:00

We had a great time celebrating!

It's Carnival Time!

2011-02-28T10:07:00.002-06:00

Merrin on her Daddy's shoulders ready to catch some beads
Caleb wanted to come along and he was ready too!

I love this one, she is making sure she has all her loot!

Caleb....please Wendy stop taking pictures of us.
PS: Nannie sorry about the cookie cake on the rug :)

Friday at the Zoo

2011-02-25T16:40:00.003-06:00

Ready to roll!

She stole my hat, next time I will remember to bring hers!

Cuteness!

With her buddy Caleb

We are loving this weather so when we picked Caleb up from school Friday we headed straight to the zoo and we all had a blast!

Christmas in February

2011-02-20T22:01:00.003-06:00

Cousin's enjoying a movie

Family picture

playing with the new toys

Sister's!

Stuffed King Cake...... Oh so very yummy!!!

We celebrated our Christmas dinner with my brother's family Saturday night. They were out of town for Christmas and with every one's schedule this was the soonest we could have it. It was so much fun, Merrin had a blast with her cousin's and even was singing jingle bells and saying "ho ho ho Merry Christmas"!

Girls Trip

2011-02-16T14:43:00.006-06:00

All the girls

Merrin, Lia and Bella

Having a snack

Going for a ride

My sweet Valentine!

Merrin and I took a little road trip trip last weekend to visit two of Merrin's friends from China. We had seen Bella back in November but we had not seen Stephanie and Lia since our trip to China in July 09. It was so awesome to see them and I just love watching the girls play together. Merrin is still talking about Bella and Lia, I know she misses them already! It was also so nice for me to just hang out with my two friends talking, eating and drinking..... I have been running every day since but it was so worth it!!!

Chinese New Year Celebrations

2011-02-08T07:56:00.007-06:00

Ready to go!
Thanks Mamere and Pops for coming to celebrate!

Merrin and Emma coloring

Just a small portion of the group

Ready to roll again!

We had a great time celebrating this weekend with old friends and new ones as well. Saturday evening we drove to Poplarville MS. for the event and it was tons of fun, so many families! Sunday we went to a Chinese restaurant close to our house and we had another big turnout but unfortunately I did not take any pictures, just one before we left.

Merrin started running fever Sunday night so we went to the doctor's yesterday and she has a viral infection. She just had this before Christmas and it only lasted a couple of days so I am hoping this is the case because Friday we are off to see two of her China Sisters! We can't wait!

Happy Chinese New Year

2011-02-03T16:00:00.007-06:00

Happy New Year of the Rabbit! The year of the Rabbit is to bring peace, prosperity, kindness and comfort. We swept out the old and we are ready for the new!!

2 1/2!!!

2011-01-31T10:31:00.007-06:00

I really cannot believe our baby girl is already 2 1/2! So much has happened since she turned two- it has been a very busy 6 months. Joey has had 2 surgeries and they switched his chemo but he is doing so much better it is truly amazing! His blood work is coming along great and he has already hit the 2nd phase of the remission process.

Merrin is just growing like crazy ; not gaining much weight. She is stuck at 23 lbs. but getting taller and wants to do everything "self". I am constantly hearing "No, Mommy, 'self' ", which is great but can be time consuming at times :) She has been potty trained since October and I cannot take the credit. She was ready and she did it all "self"! She even wakes us up in the middle of the night to go potty, not all nights but enough. We are so proud of her!

She loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Barney is out (yeah). Her favorite movie is Princess and the Frog. She LOVES her PJ's and will want to change into them at all times, like right before we are walking out the door. I am thinking she is playing in her room and she comes out in her PJ's. She loves changing her clothes period. She is definitely a girly girl who loves tutu's, shoes, hats. She will put on an outfit, run to the mirror, and say "awww pretty'.

She will say I luv you and give you kisses which we love since we waited a very long time to hear those words from this sweet girl and it still brings tears to my eyes. She loves to have group hugs with Mommy and Daddy. Her new thing is when she really really wants something and I have said "No" she says p-l-e-a-s-e Mommy and give me this sad pouty look. I try not to cave in but it is so cute it is very hard! She still loves to be held, loves to jump, dance, sing, love to be tickled, play hide and seek, anything chocolate and of course her milk! She absolutely adores tomatoes and mushrooms.

I am really going to try to update my blog . I love reading all the posts and seeing the pictures and so does Merrin. I have been really trying to get her baby books in order but not doing a great job since according to her book she only has two teeth!

We stayed home today and prepared for Chinese New Year. We cleaned the house, put up our decorations, and baked good fortune cupcakes. We cannot wait for this weekend we have two CNY parties to go attend, should be tons of fun!!

Blessings,

Wendy

Christmas Card 2010

2010-12-29T19:40:00.003-06:00

Cheers All Year Holiday

Turn your photo into this year's holiday party invitations.

View the entire collection of cards.

Look who's 2!!!!

2010-08-02T07:10:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Merrin we love you so very much !!!

One year ago today........

2010-07-20T07:29:00.008-05:00

July 20th 2009, Changsha Hunan China

July 20th 2010, Home one year

One year ago today this precious child was placed in our arms. We had fallen in love with her before we even knew who she was and that love grew even stronger when we were finally able hold and kiss our baby girl. We love you so very much Merrin you bring us so much joy!

2010-07-17T09:17:00.000-05:00

Luke's 2nd Birthday Party at Global Wildlife

Ready to go on the wagon

Luke and Merrin

Getting ready

She loved feeding the animals but the wagon ride is 1 hour and 15 min. a little to long for Merrin she kept doing her all done sign and saying "go" after about 30 minutes but then decided that playing in the ice chest with Luke was a ton of fun too!

2010-07-10T06:58:00.000-05:00

Helping Emma open her presents
The minute she stepped in Emma's room she went straight for her shoes and put them on.

She tried to take Emma's shoes home and then when we took them off she went straight for Emma's baby stroller and went to their door and said "go" needless to say she left the house kicking and screaming but was snoozing about 30 seconds after taking off.

Having fun at home with the treats from the party, she loves stickers!!

It was a great party......Happy Birthday sweet Emma

4th of July Weekend

2010-07-08T19:00:00.006-05:00

Crab Fest with Daddy
Riding the 3 wheeler with Mommy

Mamere, Daddy, Uncle Bill and Nannie Lisa all cracking up because this was the ride that would never end, I swear someone must have slip the operator a twenty because it was forever long!

Dancing with Mamere

Group photo
Nannie BB, Mamere, Pops, Mommy, Merrin, Uncle Bill, Nannie Lisa and Daddy

Checking out the beach after the fest

Back to the beach and ready to dig

I am a big girl now!!

2010-07-07T16:58:00.003-05:00

No more bottles for Merrin she is a big girl now and sleeping through the night!!!! It will be 2 weeks on Friday that we read No more bottles for bunny and she placed all her bottles in a bag and we went and threw them in the garbage outside and she said Bye Bye. I was pretty sure I would not go dig them out of the outside garbage can at two in the morning but I certainly could not trust myself to leave them in the kitchen garbage can, yes I am pretty weak when I am tired! We did have some crying and whining but nothing like I thought, we are so proud of you Merrin!!

Sweet and Funny Merrin

2010-06-26T15:09:00.010-05:00

This little girl cracks me up some of the things she does I have no idea where she gets these things from but she makes me laugh out loud many times a day. She remembers everything which can be good and bad. A couple of weeks ago she started saying "nay" but we had no idea what she was saying. I noticed that one day every time Caleb would say Wendy she would say nay. I told Joey I think she is calling me Wendy and he of course thought I was nuts but since I am always right (ha ha) I did confirm it when I left the room that night and she was screaming "nay" "nay" and when I returned I said Merrin how do you say Wendy and she said nay. The next day we went to Mamere and Pops and she started yelling "Joe" "Joe" at her Daddy, so we are now on first name basis!! Every time she says that we say no Mommy or Daddy so now she does it because she thinks its so funny and she knows it drives us crazy!

She started saying thank you (dank do) about 3 weeks ago and I just love that she says it all the time no need to tell her to say it, well most of the time. She will say it after I change her diaper put on her shoes, clothes etc. The other morning I was painting my toe nails and she was watching very carefully so I painted hers too. I am telling you she was so thrilled she thanked me about 20 times. We were in the car a while later and she of course takes of her shoes but I kept hearing her saying "thank you" "thank you" and I turned back and she was playing with her toes smiling away, if only it was always that easy to please them!!

Father's Day

2010-06-20T08:05:00.000-05:00

Happy Father's Day Daddy WE LOVE YOU!!!!!!!

Father's Day with Pops

Father's Day with Big Joe

We spent Saturday night in Waveland with Mamere and Pops and had brunch Sunday morning then headed to Big Joe's for a barbecue. It was a wonderful weekend spending time with the Dad's we love.

Play Date

2010-06-19T16:04:00.000-05:00

Emma and Merrin

Our little monkey!

She loves to swing

Getting some air time from Daddy, she LOVES this and her Dad cannot throw her high enough and it makes me a nervous wreck! Emma thought it was great and had Joey throw her up too!

We had our monthly play date at the park this weekend with other families who have adopted from China. Merrin had so much fun playing with her friend Emma they play really well together. It just love seeing these two together, knowing they were in the same orphanage and living in the same room......I wonder if they remember.

Date night with Mom and Dad

2010-06-18T22:59:00.003-05:00

We had a little family outing last weekend and we went to B & N and out to dinner. There is a neat little spot not too far from our house called fountain park and it has a couple of restaurants, a cafe and some shops. I don't think we have been to dinner with Merrin since we were in China last summer, we usually do breakfast or lunch. She had a great time at B & N and we picked up a couple of books....Hands are not for hitting and No more bottles for bunny, can you believe my precious baby is hitting and yes she still takes a bottle but don't tell her doctor I told a little white lie last visit : ) She has been hitting Nola our cat and poor Caleb he gets abused sometimes too but I swear this book really seems to be helping but I don't think she is ready to throw her bottles away like bunny yet, but I give her a couple of weeks I can tell she is letting it sink in! Playing with the trains at Barnes and Nobles
Not wanting to sit still so Mommy and Daddy can read her a book : )

Eating and loving the spinach dip

Of course loving her chocolate ice cream

This going out to eat thing is so great!

Blueberry Farm

2010-06-18T21:49:00.004-05:00

Trish, Mia and Jolie looking fabulous picking berries ( I think they lasted about 15 minutes, it was hot!)

Merrin, James and Aunt Michele looking all stylist picking berries!

Merrin and Mommy (sweaty and hot!)

We went to Blue Harvest last weekend and picked our awesome blueberries. We already made blueberry nut crunch and banana blueberry bread that were delicious! Merrin picked and ate the blueberries right off the tree, we had a great time!

Storyland

2010-06-10T14:38:00.001-05:00

Hi Mommy

Snack time

Just chilling

peek-a-boo

Caleb waiting to "catch" Merrin

We went to City Park this week and visited Storyland, Caleb and Merrin had so much fun but it was so HOT of course it did not seem to bother them at all. I was hoping that we wear them both out but as always it seemed like I was the only one exhausted from our outing! City Park is just beautiful, before Katrina we lived a block away and I would run in the park after it was a mess but now it is even more beautiful, they have a great play area, sculpture garden, dog park and fountains with these big double swings, we can feed the ducks ride the train and they even have an amusement park with rides (which I always tell poor Caleb it is closed : ) We always have a great time!

Water Slide

2010-06-06T20:28:00.003-05:00

Brian trying to give Merrin a hug

Getting ready

Woo Hoo this is fun!

Yummy!

We of course went to a crawfish boil today and Merrin had an awesome time on the water slide. I love the picture of her coming down the slide screaming. Unfortunately it started to rain and they were not happy they had to get off but popsicles helped ease the pain. This little girl LOVES popsicles you know it's bad when she is hanging from the freezer door whining and then throwing herself on the ground!

Aquarium

2010-06-06T20:08:00.003-05:00

We took a trip to the aquarium with Caleb and his brother last week and had lots of fun. Merrin loved looking at all the fish and playing in the little play area but not into touching the stingrays yet!

Beach Trip

2010-06-02T20:05:00.013-05:00

Loving the beach!

Meredith and Merrin

Mallory and Merrin

My sweet girl

Merrin and James

Loving the pool.....so cute!

Merrin's new BFF

Back Home!

We had a wonderful trip to the beach ( Thanks Michele!) Merrin did so well on the ride to and from Destin, I have to say I was pleasantly surprised because the girl does not like to sit still. I had plenty of snacks, books, toys, her fav music cd's and of course Barney Dvd's. She loved the beach and the pool and had such a great time with Michele kid's who were so awesome with her they all are such great helpers! James who is soon to be 6 kept saying " I love Merrin, she is just so cute" now how sweet is that!

Merrin did miss her Daddy and it was a precious moment when she saw him waiting outside I wish I had it on video. The next morning she woke up and turned to see Daddy was already out of the bed (yes she does sleep with us :) and she was very upset, luckily Joey had not left for work and she was very happy to give him goodbye kisses.

Off to the Beach

2010-05-27T23:27:00.007-05:00

Merrin and I are heading to Destin today with my friend Michele her 3 kids and her parents. They just bought a condo in Destin and I am so excited to see it and to introduce Merrin to one of my favorite vacation spots. I think she will like the beach she loves her sandbox the Easter bunny brought her. The husbands have to work so they are staying behind :( Joey does have a graduation party to go to (Congrats Evan!) and another crawfish boil besides work so I don't feel so bad leaving him behind and this is his second week that he has been feeling really good, YEAH!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and stay tuned for beach pictures!

Love,

Wendy

Weekend Fun

2010-05-23T21:00:00.011-05:00

We went to a crawfish boil at Uncle Darrin's and Merrin used her new pool. We had a wonderful weekend and we hope you did too!

Helping Uncle Darrin with the crawfish

Brady and Reese waiting to get hosed down by Uncle Darrin

Having fun

Brady blowing bubbles

Hanging with Granny and PaPa

Say cheese Aunt Jamie

Reese

Merrin sucking crawfish head's, that's our spicy girl!

Trying out my new pool

One Year Anniversary

2010-05-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

May 21, 2009

Today is the one year anniversary of our referral for Merrin Francis. Merrin has been with her family for 10 months and is 21 months old. She is happy, smart, funny, extremely energetic and of course very spicy! This day will always be one of the most special days in our lives, I will never forget waiting to see our daughter's face come across the computer screen and the moment we saw that sweet face. She has brought us so much joy I hope some how her birth parents know how much she is so deeply loved.

Watching TV with Mamere

2010-05-15T15:00:00.000-05:00

I am sure Mamere won't mind..........
Mamere you OK???????

Oh Yeah she is good!

This is how little Miss Merrin likes to watch tv with her Mamere!

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T21:43:00.001-05:00

Annual Mother's Day photo but this year with our added blessing.... Merrin!

Me and my two girls

Sister's

Thanks Auntie Tonya for my dress!

Trying to decide if going in the sprinkler is a good idea (she decided it was not : )

I hope all you Mom's had a wonderful day, I know it was especially wonderful for me!

Swimming and Popsicles

2010-05-08T21:15:00.000-05:00

Merrin and her BFF Caleb

Loving her Popsicle

Yes that is a huge mosquito bite on her check, poor baby is obviously allergic

Asian Fest at the Zoo

2010-04-28T17:31:00.000-05:00

Wow I am so behind in my post the Asian Fest actually took place before Joey's birthday but I have not had time to work on the blog. Merrin is doing great now but was sick last week and actually had a touch of pneumonia. We are finally starting to get into our regular routine again and hopefully I can get back on top of things........... we need things to slow down over here for a bit!!!

The Asian fest was lots of fun, beautiful weather and we were able to meet up with Emma and her Mom and Dad again so that was just great! The girls had fun listening and dancing to the music and making Chinese lanterns and Merrin had fun eating all of Emma's snacks and wearing her sunglasses and shoes! Merrin loves putting on other people shoes so if you have them laying around or take them off she will have them on in no time, except in the car as soon as I buckle her in the car seat they are off and thrown on the ground. That does drives me a bit crazy especially when we have multiple stops, she has been wearing alot of sandals and crocs these days much easier then dealing with socks and shoes!

Happy Birthday Joey

2010-04-19T15:25:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Daddy

At Emily's Communion crawfish boil

Blowing bubbles with Daddy

Happy Birthday 42nd honey we love you so much!!!

Joey is a wonderful husband and Father and I just want him to know how much we love and appreciate him! I was really not sure if I would share this news on our blog but since this is one of Merrin's baby books and this is now a part of our story I decided to tell what has been going on in our lives the past two weeks. I am also a believer in prayers and I figure it cannot hurt to have more people praying.

Joey was diagnosed 2 weeks ago today with Chronic myelogenous leukemia. Joey went to the emergency room three weeks ago because he had blurred vision and trouble breathing we really thought it was heart related but all the test they ran came back fine and we were getting ready to be discharged when the doctor came in and said his white blood cell count was extremely high.

He started his chemotherapy last Monday, which is a pill he takes everyday called Gleevec and even though he has experienced some side effects of the chemo he is doing really well. He is still suffering with fatigue, muscle soreness and muscle cramps but he should start feeling better as the Gleevec continues to work.

I also want to say a big thank you to all of our family and friends we could not have gone through these past few weeks without your love and support. It truly means so much to Joey and I to have such wonderful people in our lives.

Merrin's First Easter

2010-04-04T18:50:00.000-05:00

2010-04-04T18:10:00.000-05:00

Reading with Pops

Just being cute!

All my Easter goodies and yes she has on a tiara and tutu

Watching Daddy and Nannie BB swimming

Still watching......the girl would not get in the pool!

2010-04-04T18:00:00.000-05:00

Merrin, Daddy and Mommy, missing Meghan :(

Aunt Jamie, Brady, Reese and Merrin

Thanks Brady for the glasses!

Merrin give those back!

Photo shoot with Nannie Lisa

2010-04-03T19:29:00.000-05:00

Merrin and cousin Jack

We drove to visit Nannie Lisa and Uncle Bill's before going to spend the night at Mamere's and Pops for Easter. We had a little photo shoot while we were there, I brought about ten outfit's but we only made it through three!

1st zoo trip with Caleb

2010-04-02T19:40:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Mamere and Pops we received a zoo membership for Chinese New Year! I decided to take them both on Friday and we had an awesome time.

Easter egg hunt and two Hunan girls reunited!!

2010-03-27T18:59:00.000-05:00

Hugging Emma
Looking for eggs
Adorable Emma
Sharing chips
Sharing goldfish, they both like to eat!

We went to an Easter egg hunt with families with children from China and Merrin was reunited with one of her friends from China, Emma!! It was so wonderful to see these two together, I met Patricia online before we traveled and then realized we lived very close to one another and we learned that Merrin and Emma were friends, how cool is that! We did not travel with the same agency but we met in China and were finally able to reconnect. Emma is absolutely adorable and full of energy and loves chocolate just like her friend! We are so excited because there is a play group that is starting up in there area so we will be spending more time with them!

They had a great turn out for the Easter egg hunt and it was so nice to meet other families like ours that live in this area.

Enjoy the photos!

More Easter egg pictures

2010-03-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks Mr. Dennis for the ride!

Giving Mommy kisses

Easter Bunny Picture

2010-03-27T06:00:00.001-05:00

Mamere and Granny

2010-03-23T20:15:00.000-05:00

Merrin was thrilled this week week when we had Mamere and Pops and Granny and PaPa spending the night with us. She was so cute and took Granny's hand and walked up to Mamere who was of course cooking and took her hand.....she wanted to walk with both her Grandmother's so very cute!

Surgery Recap

2010-03-21T14:38:00.000-05:00

Merrin is still doing great and basically has all her energy back! We were able to take the arm splints off on Thursday and she did so good the funny part was she actually thought the boo boo was on her arms and did not realize it was her ear until she passed in front of a mirror and she actually did a double take, poor baby.

I just want to do a little recap of Merrin's surgery day since not only is this blog for friends and family to get there Merrin fix but since I am slacking on her baby book this might be the only thing she has!

We arrived at the hospital for 8:00 am and Merrin was in a great mood but she knew something was up and she was constantly trying to escape out of the waiting room and was running toward the automatic doors. She almost made it one time when Joey and I realize Mamere was running after her and she has a boot on one foot so Joey hurried and chased her down! When we were called into the back Merrin immediately started to cry, her doctor came in and she really lost it. When we went to our last appointment with him she screamed the entire time I could barely understand what he was saying but I did hear him say that she seemed like she was a handful can you believe that, ha! They finally gave her the meds to make her loopy and it did work for a while she was being very silly but unfortunately the surgery ahead of hers ran late and the meds wore off. She then became hysterical and we could do nothing to calm her down. We tried all of our tricks, the poor child life specialist was blowing bubbles, playing Barney tapes, trying to get her to color but nothing would work she just wanted to go home and who could blame her. When they came to take her it was horrible and just what we did not want to happen, Joey and I were a mess. The staff at the hospital were wonderful and the anesthesiologist came out immediately and swore she only cried for 20 seconds after she left us and then she was fast asleep. While we waited Aunt Jamie came back with some vanilla lattes and pastry's and a balloon for Merrin and Mamere, Big Joe, Colleen all patiently waited. Uncle Gary stopped by also and was just in time to get to see Merrin when she woke up. It took about 2 hours before the doctor came out and said she was doing great and that everything went really well. We were able to go back a couple of minutes later and she was not awake yet (thank goodness) and we just rubbed her back and held her hand, told her we loved her so much and just waited. I will say that they were all waiting for little Miss Merrin to wake up screaming like crazy and actually we were too, but we were all pleasantly surprised when she woke up and reached for her MaMa and said juice. I scooped her up sat with her in the rocker and gave her the juice. We are very thankful that everything went so well and for the support we received from our family and friends, thank you all so much!

Merrin you were so brave and you did so awesome not only with the surgery but also your recovery. We love you so much Merrin Francis and we just can't believe you have been in our lives for 8 months now............... we are so very very lucky!

Update

2010-03-17T19:58:00.000-05:00

Merrin did great with her surgery and is recovering really well, she is such a trooper. We had to go back to the doctors to get the drain taken out and thank goodness it was a quick visit! I will post more about the surgery later but it is hard to type while I am holding her, she wants her Mama!

Thanks so much for all the prayers, emails and messages we truly appreciate it!

PS: She is wearing arm splints so she will not pull her ear cup off, something she did manage to do after about 60 seconds of being home from her surgery yesterday and almost gave her Mom a heart attack!

Prayer Request

2010-03-14T19:09:00.000-05:00

Our baby girl will be having surgery tomorrow morning to remove a preauricular cyst. We would appreciate your prayers for Merrin and also for Joey and I. I know we will be a nervous wreck! It is an outpatient procedure so I will update tomorrow afternoon. I do know she will be in great hands the ENT that will be doing her surgery is the best in this area.

Thank you,

Wendy

Baking with Mommy

2010-03-05T09:23:00.000-06:00

Our girl loves sweets just like her Mommie!

Sunday Fun

2010-02-28T19:33:00.000-06:00

Merrin had a great time hanging out with Uncle Gary, Aunt Jamie, Brady and Reese. They ate, drank (sorry Brady and Reese for Merrin constantly trying to steal your sippy cups) and blew bubbles, played with sidewalk chalk and ran around the yard like crazy. We all had a wonderful day and little Miss Merrin played so hard she was sleeping by 7:15!!!

Mardi Gras Day

2010-02-16T19:58:00.000-06:00

Merrin decided to be the pink poodle again for Mardi Gras

Merrin petting the horse with Uncle Gerald

Merrin and Zoe

I think I am ready for a nap!

More Parade Pics

2010-02-16T19:44:00.000-06:00

Merrin and the girls

Merrin and Maggie

Merrin and Mommy

Merrin and Mike

Merrin sleeping through the last parade!

We spent the day Saturday with my good friend Dianne and her family that came in from Georgia. This was there first time to meet Merrin the last time they were in town was the day we received Merrin's referral. It was great to see them and have Merrin and Maggie finally play together!

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

2010-02-14T18:37:00.000-06:00

Make a Smilebox collage

We Dat!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-07T13:30:00.000-06:00

Waiting to take the ferry

Merrin running down pirates alley

Chinese Dragon

Woo Hoo Saints won the Super Bowl!!!!!!!!!!!!! We had such an awesome day. Joey's cousin Gerald and his wife Missy who have had everyone over for every game had an open house from 9am until Super Bowl. They served breakfast, lunch, appetizers and then dinner at halftime. The food as always was wonderful!! We started off with breakfast around 10:30 and then took the ferry downtown with about 10 other people. We had a great time in the quarter, it was full of Saints fans screaming Who Dat and it was just a very fun and festive time. They also had the Barkus parade going on so Merrin loved seeing all the dogs and just running around.

When we returned from the quarter we also had a Chinese dragon come to the house in honor of Merrin since she was the Saints good luck charm this season. Every game Gerald would make at least one Asian dish and then he made the mistake of saying that if the Saints made it to the Super bowl he would have a Chinese Dragon run through the house. Missy made the dragon costume which of course had some Saints flair and Evan was a trooper and wore it and ran up and down the house and down the street. It was so funny and I do think that Merrin thinks we are all nuts! Thank you Gerald, Missy and Evan for a very memorable season!

More Super Bowl Pics

2010-02-07T12:00:00.000-06:00

Merrin and Nannie waiting to see the Dragon

Waiting to take the ferry

Joey and Charlene in the quarter

Parades!!!

2010-02-06T20:03:00.000-06:00

Happy Mardi Gras!

What is this thing....get me down now!

Hello....could you please tell me why my parents make me stand out in the cold and scream for beads????
Dancing to Stand up and get crunked!

Little drummer boy and girl

2010-02-05T19:43:00.000-06:00

Caleb received drums from Santa and he and Merrin love to play them. (Caleb is the little boy I babysit for part-time.) They are so funny, one will be playing the drums and the other is usually on the microphone "singing" along. I did not get any pictures of the singing just them rocking out on the drums!

And of course

Geaux Saints!

18 months old

2010-02-02T20:47:00.000-06:00

Merrin is 18 months old today and we just celebrated our 6 month anniversary, time is just flying by! We had our 18 month check up today and she weighs 20 lbs. and is 30 inches and now has 10 teeth, she is getting so big.

Merrin brings us so much joy I am so thankful that we were chosen to be this amazing little girls Mom and Dad.

Super Bowl Baby!!!!!

2010-01-24T08:49:00.000-06:00

I am the Saints good luck charm!!!

Merrin and her friend Brian

2010-01-17T19:10:00.000-06:00

Oh my 17 months old!!!

2010-01-02T20:11:00.000-06:00

Merrin cannot believe she is 17 months old today and either can we! She has grown so much since we have been home it is unbelievable. She is saying more words....daddy, mama, hot, cheese, hi, no, don't, more, eye and ear. Merrin is a little monkey and loves to climb on everything even her new kitchen Santa gave her. She is getting her 8th tooth in and weighs about 19lbs. 8 oz. We love you so much Merrin Franics!!!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-02T19:57:00.000-06:00

We spent New Year's Eve at Mamere and Pop's and had a great time!

I love helping Mamere cookI even had more presents to open

I loved relaxing and eating rice cakes!

Christmas Morning

2009-12-31T13:00:00.000-06:00

I love all my presents!
I really love my kitchen

Thanks Meghan for all my play food

Merry Christmas everyone!

Christmas Day

2009-12-25T13:49:00.000-06:00

I love opening my presents! Happy Merrin

Me and my Daddy

Merrin and Meghan

I love my Pa Pa

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T11:59:00.000-06:00

We had such a wonderful Christmas it is hard for me to even describe how awesome it was to finally have our baby girl here for the holidays. The wait for Merrin was so hard but during the holidays it was excruciating. I pray for the families that are still waiting to bring their children home, your dreams will come true!

Merry Christmas!
My Family

Me and Santa

Merrin, Santa and my new cousin Tate

Ho Ho Ho!

More Christmas Eve Pics

2009-12-24T10:00:00.000-06:00

I love Chistmas Eve!

Me and my Mommy

Meghan and Daddy

I just know Nannie Noreen will make me do this next year :)

I love my Aunt Missy!

More Pictures

2009-12-20T21:53:00.000-06:00

Friends and Caroling

2009-12-20T21:39:00.000-06:00

We started off our Sunday with a get together with friends and then caroling in Jackson Square. Merrin loved caroling and was singing, dancing and clapping. We had a great time at both it is just so awesome to finally have Merrin here enjoying everything with us, we are so blessed!

Merrin & Santa

2009-12-19T13:48:00.000-06:00

We were so surprised that Merrin did so well with Santa, I really thought it would be the red couch picture all over again! Merrin was waving to Santa while we waited in line, she would not smile but I think it came out great. I had to take this picture with my camera because my scanner would not work so Santa's beard looks a little funny.

Christmas in the Oaks

2009-12-12T19:45:00.000-06:00

We had a great time with Meghan and Merrin checking out the lights. Merrin loved running around and waving to everyone and saying HI.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T18:09:00.000-06:00

Mamere and Pops house and yes 2nd outfit of the day!

Jamie

My niece and nephew Reese and Brady soon to be 3!

We had such a wonderful Thanksgiving, we have so much to be thankful for this year! Merrin really enjoyed her two turkey dinners and had a great time running around at Granny and Papa's and then we went to Waveland and spent the night at Mamere and Pops. We missed Meghan who had to work but I know she made all the kids happy at Children's that she was there to make their Thanksgiving special. We are so blessed to have wonderful family and friends and to have everyone healthy, this time last year we were praying for Jamie, my sister-in-law who was waiting for a heart transplant. She received her new heart on January 2, 2009 and is doing awesome. We are so thankful for her donor family and our prayers are always with them.

I hope everyone had a great day!

4 Months Ago...............

2009-11-20T22:06:00.000-06:00

Gotcha Day July 20, 2009

August

September

October

November

Merrin four months ago today you were placed in our arms and stole our hearts! You are truly a blessing and you bring us so much joy! We love you Merrin Francis!

Just Cuteness

2009-11-15T21:41:00.001-06:00

Saints Sunday! Who Dat!

2009-11-08T20:56:00.000-06:00

Halloween

2009-11-04T18:42:00.000-06:00

We had such a great time with Merrin on our first Halloween together. We headed to Granny and Papa's so they could see the adorable pink poodle and then we went to Gerald and Missy's for trick or treating, it was a wonderful night!

My Little Pumpkin

2009-10-24T15:59:00.000-05:00

We took Merrin to pick out a pumpkin at a church near our house, she had fun running around and touching all the pumpkins and she did pick out a great one. We are really looking forward to our first Halloween with Merrin!

Just Pictures

2009-10-09T00:15:00.000-05:00

Merrin and Mommy

Talking on the phone

2009-10-09T00:05:00.000-05:00

Merrin loves to talk on the phone but for some reason she puts the phone behind her head and talks and talks away. Caleb aways wants to know if she is calling China!

Saints Sunday

2009-09-29T21:28:00.001-05:00

We also had Saints Sunday after the Christening party. Gerald had prepared some Asian dishes and a red velvet cake with a yellow star in honor Merrin, everything was delicious and of course we had a great time, what a wonderful day!!