We Interrupt This Blog with Some Pictures

So, I'm not exactly following Sarah's FFF theme, but these were the pictures that were on my camera.

Here is Alex at Day out with Thomas. Jay and his dad took both Alex's to this last Friday. I had an almost entire day to myself!! It was wonderful. Alex had a GREAT time. (although you really can't tell from these pictures.)





These pictures are from the party at my aunt and uncle's last week. They have a full size pool, but it was REALLY cold. They also set up this baby pool for the kids to play in. It took Alex some time to warm up to the water play, but then he really got into it.

He's trying to squirt water on my dad in these next pictures.

And, just chillin'

Didn't Mean to Leave You Hanging

Every night this week I've sat down to write my next post, and every time I've just gone to bed.

And the funny thing, is I don't even have anything huge to post, I just don't know where I want to go next.

I started this blog over two years ago when we were in process with Alex. My whole goal was to keep family and friends informed of the process and where we were in it. My hope was that I wouldn't get asked every day when Alex was going to come home. And, this blog totally achieved that goal.

Little did I know that I would "meet" some amazing people along the way. I had no idea I would end up with a big list of blogger friends. (some of you I've had the amazing opportunity to meet in person)

I really haven't posted much about real issues - thoughts - feelings. A couple weeks ago, Angel put a challenge out to Get Real and it has got me thinking.

Where do I want this blog to go next? I still want to use it as a journal for Alex - a place to put pictures (especially for my mom and dad) and record his milestones. But, I think I want it to become something more then just that.

The only reason why I struggle is that there are many people that I know in real life who read this blog. My parents (hi mom and dad!), co-workers (Melissa, Cheryl, Kim anyone else out there?), friends (hi Michelle!), and Jay's co-workers (Kim, Lourdes, anyone else?) I have to admit that it makes me nervous to really put myself out there when I know that these people I really know read it.

I just need to take the plunge - so I think the next thing I blog about will just be a list of questions/thoughts I have that I want to explore.

Thanks for hanging in with me!!

(and I just got my camera back so there will be pictures from Alex's Day out with Thomas and our trip to my Aunt and Uncle's house)

No New Pictures

I left my camera at my aunt and uncle's house this weekend, so you will have to wait until my parents send it to me for new pictures.

Until then, I'm struggling with where I want this blog to go.

I started this blog to journal our adoption journey. It was designed to keep family and friends informed on where we were in the process, and to share photos.

Although I still want to use this as a place to document Alex's milestones, I think I'm ready for it to be more then just an online journal.

I'm pretty sure God is preparing me for something big, I just don't know what it is yet. So, stay tuned as I work out all of these thoughts in my head!!!

Thirteen Years, One Week and One Day

Jay and I celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary last week. (well sort of) Our anniversary fell on Baby A's surgery day, so we really haven't done anything yet to celebrate.

I can't believe it's been 13 years - I mean really - am I getting that old? :) At the end of August I will have known Jay as long as I didn't know him.

I said a lot about him on my Father's Day post, and I don't want to repeat myself, but I could go on and on about him.

When most people first meet Jay they think he's a jerk - stand offish - an a-hole. But really, he isn't any of those things. He's just really shy - I'm definitely the outgoing one in the relationship.

He is an amazing husband and father. I usually have nothing to complain about. I can't imagine my life without him.

I tried to take some pictures of our wedding album. Yes, people, I got married before digital photos!! :) And oh my gosh - we were young and thin!!!

Slamming Into the Wall

****Edited**** - Angel is challenging people to get real on their blog. Since I just did a Get Real post, I thought I would link this one!


I really wanted to post this on Friday night, but just didn't have the strength (or mental capacity to do it)

From Monday night - Friday night I got probably a total of 12 hours of sleep. I don't do well without my sleep. :) Baby A was doing really well, but he's a tummy sleeper. To keep him on his back, we've had to either have him sleep on our lap or in his swing. The swing was working pretty good the first day home, but he soon realized that he couldn't move around much in it. So, he's been sleeping mostly in our laps. (I say our - Jay has really helped this weekend)

I was surviving until Friday night. It was about 9:00, Baby A was on my lap just hanging out. (well, actually a little upset that I wouldn't let him crawl around on the floor) Jay was sitting on the couch eating popcorn and watching a movie. It all of the sudden hit me that I was going to start crying. I put Baby A in the exersaucer, ran into our bathroom, got in the shower and just bawled. :( I was emotionally worn out.

And you know what - I shouldn't have been. Yes, I wasn't getting much sleep. We had two scares with Big Alex (his foot and then being sent home from day care on Tuesday). Watching a baby (even if it's not yours) go through surgery is tough. But, Baby A has been a dream. He doesn't cry much and when he does, it's easy to figure out what he wants.

How would I handle it if something major happened to Alex? How do people deal with chronic, life threatening illnesses with their children? I have much more empathy for these families, and have come to realize that I'm not as strong as I thought I was.

Jay takes Baby A to the surgeon tomorrow to get the stitches out. We are hopeful that he will be allowed to crawl, get the arm restraints off, and be given the go ahead to sleep on his back.

On Saturday, Jay took Alex to a train show in Louisville. They had a great time.




(I love this picture!!! This is Alex out in our front yard. He was playing with the flowers)

We're Doing Good

I'm home with Baby A. Big Alex ended up getting sent home from daycare yesterday. He was just having some...um...diaper issues. Poor Jay had to take the day off and go get him. (this isn't a good week for this to happen) I then had to get home as soon as possible this morning so Jay could get to work. (because, of course, Alex couldn't go to daycare again today)

I'm tired, but I'm glad we are on our road to recovery.

Ok - I'm Asking

We've found out that Baby A can go back home 4 weeks (instead of 6) after surgery. I still want to take him back. Four weeks after surgery puts us at the week of July 21st. I am planning on going from the 24th-27th.

I'm trying to figure out the best/cheapest way for me to make this trip. I have 30,000ish miles on Delta from my business trip to India two years ago. I need 50,000ish miles to make the trip. I basically need 14,000 more miles to make the trip. I can buy the miles, but I was wondering if there was anyone out there that might have some Delta miles that they wouldn't mind gifting me. I would pay the transfer fees. Please email me if you can help. kimhartz@hotmail.com

I really debated on asking for help. We knew what we were getting ourselves into when we volunteered to foster Baby A. (we don't get any financial assistance) What we didn't plan on was me taking this trip to Guatemala. I know that many of you just help Lindsay and Chris get to Guate quickly this weekend - and bless all of you for that!!!!

(ok - I'm rambling - so I'll just end this here!!)

This is Just a Test

Just playing with my new Flip.

And, Alex is fine. He woke up this morning jumping and running. There is no swelling, no soreness and he's walking on it just fine. We've decided to not take him to the foot doctor next week unless something happens this weekend.

God, I'm Not Laughing

(Keep in mind two things when reading this. Baby A's surgery is Tuesday - I'll be in the hospital with him Tuesday and Wednesday and the Kentucky General Assembly is going back into session for one week starting on Monday)

Tonight, Alex was jumping around the family room. He was having fun. I was holding the baby. Next thing I know, I hear a thump and then a scream. Alex seemed to have hurt his foot. He's a pretty tough guy (he practically bit his lip off Thursday night up at the ball field and didn't cry) so when he cries we know something is up.

About 30 minutes later he would not put any weight on it. So, we were off to Urgent Care to get it x-rayed. My friend, Michelle, went with me while Jay stayed with the baby.

They didn't find a break, but they want us to take him to a foot specialist next week to have it checked out.





I don't know how and the world we are going to get him to the doctor next week, but I'll try to worry about that on Monday. :)


On a happier note, I got my anniversary present a little early.

It's a pink Flip!!! (with the carrying case and tripod) I've been playing around with it, so I'll post some video soon.

Blogs to Watch

I thought I'd share with you some blogs that I love to read. These are my inspirational blogs - or ones that get me really thinking.


Confessional of a CF Husband I think many of you are aware of this blog. Nathan blogs about his life with his wife Tricia who has Cystic Fibrosis. This past year has been an amazing one for them. Tricia became pregnant in the fall just as she was beginning her PT to prepare for a double lung transplant. They were told that there was a VERY good chance that Tricia, the baby, or both would die through the pregnancy. They decided to go forward. They now have a beautiful baby girl, Tricia has had a double lung transplant, but now they are facing cancer in Tricia's lungs. They are an amazing couple who love and praise the Lord through everything they do.

Leslie's Journey My best friend growing up has two little brothers. (little - they are both in their late 20's early 30's by now!!) One of them, Tyson, and his wife, Leslie, are going through a really hard time right now. Leslie went in to have some minor surgery to remove a cyst from her nose in October. They then discovered cancer - more surgeries - then infection set into her forehead - had to have the bone in her forehead removed - and then just as she was recovering from all of that - they found out that the cancer has spread. She has been told that she will be lucky to see Christmas. They have a little boy (2ish, I think). Through all of this, they are still giving all the glory to God. I'm amazed at what a Godly man Tyson has grown up to be. Please go visit them, and add them to your prayer list.

L2ashbash Ashlee absolutely amazes me. You will read her blog and wonder what you have done with your life. Ashlee is 21 years old and is living in Guatemala working specifically with gang members in the Limonada. She is there - in the trenches - and is seeing the most horrific things that humans can do to each other. She's also witnessing a real movement that God is doing through her. The number of people who have come to Christ because of her work is incredible. (and I'm not sure how I found her - Kerry - I think it was through one of your posts like a year ago - maybe?)

A Life Outside the Box "ManyBlessings" blogs about her wonderful family which includes 5 children at home and 2 in Guatemala. If you don't like "real" blogs, and only want to read fluff, then don't bother with this blog. She tells it like it is, and I LOVE that about her!!! Lately she has been blogging about what it's really like to adopt an older child. I'm really enjoying the insight.

MizFit The Queen of the MizFits is a former personal trainer, and her blog is designed to motivate all of us to become the best person that we can be - which includes exercise and eating right. Although I can't officially consider myself to be a MizFit yet (as I'm still not listening to what she says!!), I do LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her writing style. It cracks me up. If you are looking for a little inspiration to get your butt in gear, check it out.

Happy Father's Day

What can I say about Alex's Daddy?



I couldn't have asked for a better Daddy for my child.



He has more patience then I do - is a complete partner in Alex's care - and is always doing fun things with Alex.


He changes diapers, gives baths, fixes meals, plays on the swingset, and completely accepts Alex's obsession with Princesses.




Alex adores his Daddy, and I don't blame him - I do too!!!

He's even totally embraced this fostering thing. He as good of a daddy to Baby A as he is to our Alex.

Happy Father's Day, Jay!! We love you very much!!!

FFF - Bloppers

No problem finding bloppers here!! In fact, I just pulled the first 5 I found - I could have included many more!!

(The last one is Baby Alex!)

Thank Goodness

Mandy had this fun meme on her blog, and I just had to give it a try.

1. Put your iTunes/music player on shuffle

2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer

3. YOU MUST WRITE THE SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER WHAT


If Someone Says "Is This Okay?" You say

"Someday" Nichole Nordeman

What Would Best Describe Your Personality?

"What This World Needs" Casting Crowns

What Do You Like in a Guy/Girl?

"I Know You're There" Casting Crowns

How Do You Feel Today?

"All For You" Kristy Starling

What is Your Life's Purpose?

"Cosy in the Rocket" Psapp (Grey's Anatomy TV Soundtrack)

What is Your Motto?

"And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going" Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls Soundtrack)

What Do Your Friends Think of You?

"River God" Nichole Nordeman

What Do You Think of Your Parents?

"Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" Mama Mia Soundtrack (I'm cracking up!!!!!)

What Do You Think About Very Often?

"I Love My Boots" Dora the Explorer

What Is 2+2?

"Healed" Nichole Nordeman

What Do You Think of Your Best Friend?

"God Speaking" Mandisa (Michelle - don't let this go to your head!!)

What Do You Think of the Person You Like?

"Hurry Home" The Backyardigans

What Is Your Life Story?

"Un Dia Especial" Dora the Explorer

What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?

"Somewhere In the Middle" Casting Crowns

What Do You Think When You See the Person You Like?

"Phantom Footsteps" The Backyardigans

What Do Your Parents Think of You?

"The More You Ruv Someone" Avenue Q Soundtrack (ok - this song goes - "The more you ruv (love) someone, the more you want to kill them" - Yikes)

What Will You Dance to at Your Wedding?

"The Boy Who Wouldn't Hoe Corn" Alison Krauss + Union Station

What Will They Play at Your Funeral?

"The Spelling Rules" The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Soundtrack

What Is Your Hobby/Interest?

"Dora the Explorer Theme" Dora the Explorer

What Is Your Biggest Secret?

"Family (End Title)" Dreamgirls Soundtrack

What Do You Think of Your Friends?

"To Say Thanks" Nichole Nordeman

What Should You Post This As?

"Thank Goodness" Wicked Soundtrack

Ok - who's going to join me? It's fun!!!

It Happened

It finally happened.

Alex got bit at daycare. :(

He's fine - but I feel bad for him. The preliminary reports are that Alex wasn't doing anything, but the Director is going to check with the teacher tomorrow for sure.

I just hope this doesn't turn him into a biter.

A Tough Week

What a week we have had. Baby A's surgery had to be rescheduled. The poor little guy has been so sick for the past week. None of us were sleeping very well. He's definitely on the mend now, and we are now sleeping!!

It's been so hot here this week - we had no spring - we went from cold to really hot. What's up with that?

Here are some pictures from the week.


I put this picture on Baby A's blog also, but just had to post it here. Alex wants to give the baby hugs and kisses all the time now. It's SOO cute!!!

We went to my friend's house yesterday to "swim." Alex would only get in the kiddie pool to get the la las out of the pool and then he would run around clutching them.

This picture is for my dad. No matter where my dad goes, he picks up the auto/RV trader magazines. You know - those free ones they have everywhere. He's always looking for a good deal. Thursday night we went out to eat at our local pizza joint with my friend's family (after Sarah's baseball game) . Sarah and Zac went over and grabbed magazines from a table. Alex had to follow them, but instead of picking out a magazine, he grabbed the local Auto and RV Trader book. Aren't you proud, Dad??

These next two were from tonight. I never got Alex out of his pj's today. (I know - bad mom) Jay took him outside tonight to play and he had to take his shirt off (something about a lot of sand and water). He came inside and wanted a snack. I just thought he looked so funny with his pj bottoms, Cars sandals eating raisins. :)

Odds and Ends

On Friday, I took the boys to the zoo. Alex would not smile for the camera.




He likes the playground.

He was looking at the hippos who were actually out of the water and eating.

He was TIRED!!

Baby A is sick - eye, ear and throat infection. We aren't sure at this point if his surgery will be able to happen on Thursday. Please pray that he gets better soon. We had everything set up for surgery on Thursday, so please pray for patience for me - I don't do very good when my plans get changed. :)

I also REALLY want to take Baby A home when it's time. I've been looking at airfares - and OH MY GOSH!! I can't get there for under $1,000 in July. That's just crazy. I really want to go - but I can't justify paying that kind of money. I'll keep looking and see what I can do.

I got tagged by Holly - so here you go. (and I know I don't have eight things for every category - I've gotten 10 hours of sleep in the last three nights, so I'm not exactly on my game.)

8 Things I'm Passionate About:

1. Jesus

2. My Family

3. Adoption

4. Orphans - especially in Guatemala

8 Things I Want to Do Before I Die

1. Visit Australia

2. Spend a week in NYC going to as much theatre as I can squeeze in

3. Go back to Guatemala

4. Attend the Triple Crown of Racing in one year (Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes)

5. Learn how to play the guitar

6. Learn how to play the violin

7. Learn how to play the harp

8 Things I Often Say

1. Seriously?

2. Alex, don't hit the baby

3. Alex, this is your warning, one more time and you will go into time out

4. I love you!!

5. Yes, Alex

6. Chickenbus!!

7. Hola, Baby

8 Books I have Read Lately

1. The Glass Castle

2. Eat, Pray, Love

3. Three Cups of Tea

4. Another Place at the Table: A Story of Shattered Childhoods Redeemed by Love

5. Parents Magazine (ok - not a book)

6. Adoptive Families Magazine (ok - another not a book)

8 Movies I Have Watched 8 Times or More:

1. Top Gun

2. A Christmas Story

3. The Princess Bride

4. Barbie of Swan Lake

5. Bring it On

6. The Sound of Music

7. The Wizard of Oz

8. The Little Mermaid

I'm not tagging anyone as I think pretty much everyone has been tagged. If you haven't - go for it!!