Keepin Up With The L. Perry Family

BizTown...

2012-01-30T18:26:00.000-08:00

On January 17th I volunteered for the Junior Achievement program called BizTown. I remember Landan doing this as a 6th grader and now it was Leytan's turn;) It was a really great experience for the kids and I really enjoyed it too. It was neat to watch the kids and I was very impressed with some of them. You can read more about BizTown here:) VERY cool stuff!!!

Leytan and the entire 6th grade class from Harrison Elementary...

A view of the Town...

Leytan at work...

Random Snow Pics:)

2012-01-30T16:53:00.000-08:00

Levi, Lorelle and Lilyan ready to go sledding...

Working hard on getting the driveway cleared...Thanks Liam!!!

My good boys...decided to shovel the drive without even being told;)

My China boys...walking around and chatting in the snow:)

Sledding on the big hill...

15 Years!!!

2012-01-29T05:35:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it?! It has been 15 years (on January 7th;) since Lance and I were in Jamaica saying our wedding vows. All I can say is...WOW!!! It has been quite a ride. We have had our ups and downs as a couple, as parents and as friends. Thinking back over the last 15 years makes me want to laugh, cry out for joy and brings me to tears all at the same time:) To celebrate this year, we did something that I have been talking about wanting to do for several years now. We went to Disney World WITHOUT the the kids! And we drank/ate all 11 countries at Epcot:) We had SO much fun!!! We had planned on Lance also running the Disney Marathon when we were there but unfortunately he got a hip injury a couple weeks before...so he was unable to do it this year;( We did get to watch part of the action and all the excitement actually made me want to be out there too. So guess who is planning to run it next year??? Yep...Lance and I! And yes...that is 26.2 miles and yes I have LOST my mind!!! LOL!!! I will be spending the next year quoting Phil 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I have a feeling I am going to need to remind myself of this verse a lot over the year, regardless if I was running a marathon or not. I think God is going to continue to ROCK our worlds here at the Perry house;) Lance and I enjoyed our weekend together celebrating US:) Here are a few pictures from our trip...

At the ESPN Zone...

On the Boardwalk...on our way to dinner at the Dolphin Hotel:)

Cheers!!! At the Bluezoo restaurant...

With Mickey's new stuffed bear...Duffy:)

Plum wine in China...

Vino in Italy...

Lance as Superman...LOL!!!

Funnel cake in the America...

Lance in Japan...

Orange coffee in Morocco...

Beer and fish-n-chips in the United Kingdom...

Last stop...Canada:)

We actually finished our evening back in Paris for dinner and then watched Illuminations:) It was a PERFECT day!!! LOVE spending time with my man!!!

D.A.R.E. Graduation!!!

2012-01-21T19:22:00.000-08:00

On January 5th, I attended Leytan's D.A.R.E. graduation ceremony. Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) is a police officer-led series of classroom lessons about how and why to say NO to drugs. I am so thankful for this program and the message it sends to our children. Such a GREAT program!!!

Speaker...Retro Bill:)

Leytan receiving his diploma...

SO proud of you Leytan!!!

Such a FUN evening!!!

God's BEAUTIFUL Artwork:)

2012-01-21T18:30:00.000-08:00

Sunset...January 3rd:)

And January 4th...

Sunrise...January 5th:)

WOW!!! Thank you Lord...

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-21T18:21:00.001-08:00

Lance and I decided to have our 3rd Annual New Years Eve party again this year. We had Flying Fish (aka Cerulean) cater it again this year. The menu included spicy chicken pasta, sushi, bread and butter...all our FAVES!!! We also got Subway platters again this year for the kid party, in the basement;) I think everyone enjoyed it and had a GREAT evening. Bring it on 2012!!!

Time to eat...Let the party BEGIN!!!

My little ninja...

Boys...with lots of pop, chips and video games;)

Lauren and Andy...

Lorelle with a friend...

Lily and friends...

Girls, Girls, Girls!!!

Liam and I trying to take our own pic:)

Girlfriends...

Dancing...

Merry Christmas 2011!!!

2012-01-19T09:06:00.000-08:00

The kids actually slept in this year...it was after 8AM before the first child came in to wake us;) Liam, Levi and Lorelle pretty much got up at the same time. We always make them do their stockings first...that gives us a chance to get our coffee and wake up a bit:) Lauren and Andy spent the night again this year. I LOVE having them here Christmas morning to watch their little siblings open gifts. Landan, Leytan and Lilyan woke shortly after the first three finished unwrapping gifts. We enjoyed our usual Christmas morning breakfast which included egg casserole (Angie H. if are reading...I always make your recipe:) It's my favorite!!! And also monkey bread, fruit and mimosas. YUM!!! We spent the ENTIRE day in our PJ's and did absolutely nothing but hang out together:) My FAVORITE kind of day!!! Thank you Jesus!!!

Liam opening gifts and thinking he found what he was hoping for;)

Lorelle digging in to her pile...

Levi excited to get more Legos...his FAVORITE!!!

Our big girl...still loves to open gifts too;)

What every teenager needs...more Axe:)

Checking out her stocking stuff...

A dog that poops play dough...practice for a real puppy:) LOL!!!

Just what he wanted...ALL smiles:)

Chillin and playing games...

My man and me...with my giant cup of coffee:) Thanks Regina!

Levi with one of his many Lego projects...

Yes...it was a green Christmas:( But...the kids got to play outside on the trampoline on Christmas day, in their jammies:)

Merry Christmas Everyone!!! God is GOOD!

Christmas Eve...

2012-01-19T08:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was a relaxing one for the Perry Family this year:) The kids did a few craft projects and then it was off to the earliest of the 3 church services at 2:15PM. It was SO nice to go early and then have plenty of time to come home and enjoy dinner with ALL our kiddos:) We had surf and turf...steak and crab legs! All the kids LOVE crab legs and we don't have them very often...so they look forward to our Christmas Eve Crab each year:) After dinner we got our Christmas PJ's on and watched a movie together. Then it was off to bed for the kiddos...so that Santa could come;) Such a GREAT evening!!! I am SO blessed and I love my family so much!!!

Hard at work...

Lorelle with her finished Santa...

Liam really concentrating...

Time for dinner...

Lauren and Andy;)

Thoroughly enjoying their crab...

Nice one Levi...

Grandma Linda...WINS!!!

Lauren and I in our matching Christmas jammies:)

My AMAZING boys!!! Aren't they cute in their matching jammies?!

My little Princesses in their matching jammies:)

What a GREAT day!!! Can't wait for Santa to come;)

Roller Skating!!!

2012-01-19T08:36:00.000-08:00

One of our other Christmas vacation activities was roller skating:) The littles all LOVE it!!! Levi has actually chosen to have his birthday party there in February:) I usually just watch now...but I used to love skating when I was a kid too. Great exercise and FUN all at once;)

Levi:)

My China peeps...Lilyan, Lorelle, Levi and Liam:)

Miss Perry's Class:)

2012-01-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

During Christmas vacation the kids and I went into Lauren's 4th grade class to visit. Their brake didn't start until a couple days after ours;) We enjoyed seeing Lauren's classroom and meeting her students. We played games, had snack and watched part of their school's Christmas sing with them. It is hard to believe that our first baby...now has a class of her own:)

Chatting with the kids...

Lorelle lounging in her big sister's chair...

Miss Perry with her class and siblings:)

Cookies and Candy Day...

2012-01-19T08:07:00.000-08:00

On December 22, the kids and I spent the entire day in the kitchen. We made cookies, peanut butter balls and chocolate covered pretzels:) It was a FUN day!!! And in return, we had lots of yummy things to eat. I am thankful that the littles still want to help me and actually enjoy it:)

Mixing up our sugar cookie dough...

Rolling peanut butter balls...

Cutting out cookies...

Look at ALL those cookies!!!

Time to frost and sprinkle...

Dipping pretzels...

LOVED our cookie and candy making day:)

Love this pic!!!

2012-01-19T08:00:00.001-08:00

They helped me set up my nativity scene and were discussing the birth of Jesus:)

Family Christmas Dinner 2011...

2012-01-15T13:19:00.000-08:00

Each year we have an extended family Christmas celebration. It usually takes place the weekend before Christmas and this year fell on Saturday, December 17th. We opened presents one at a time, in order of age, again this year...starting with the youngest (Levi) and went up;) I think everyone enjoys this, mostly so that we can focus on that particular child and things don't get too crazy. Grandpa Perry always wants to make the kids wait until after dinner but I for one don't want to be rushed to finish my dinner so I take charge, letting them do it before hand. Sorry Ken;) After gifts were exchanged, we enjoyed prime rib, mashed potatoes, salad, dinner rolls and of coarse plenty of desserts...YUM!!!

The big kids playing cards...

The little boys playing cards with Aunt Mindy...

Sparkling grape juice...aka kid's wine;)

Thinkin she is big stuff with her fancy glass...

Levi LOVES his Legos...

Thanks Grandpa Chuck and Amy...

Lilyan's turn...

Pretty girl lovin her Justice sleep mask... Hi Levi;) LOL!

Lorelle's turn...

Thanks Grandma Linda...

Next up...the ornery Mr. Liam;)

Then beautiful Miss Angela...with her Vera:)

Leytan's up next...

The girls...LOVE them!!!

Then Ashley...and looking SO grown up;(

Such a teenager...finally Landan's turn;)

My baby sister...Miss Maddy;)

My amazing niece...Rebekah:) Seriously Levi?! LOL!

Lauren Lou's turn...

Grandpa Chuck and Amy...

Me with my new BIG Carl:) Thanks Mindy!!!

Lorelle and I...CHEERS!!!

Time to eat!!!

The kids are all getting so big:( It is heart warming to see what amazing young people they are becoming but at the same time SAD to see them so grown up:( We had a great evening of playing games, eating, drinking and just enjoying being together. Merry Christmas!!!!

Christmas at the O.K. Corral...

2011-12-22T18:41:00.000-08:00

Lorelle and Leytan participated in the Christmas play at school on Thursday, December 15th. They had two shows...the first for the school at 2PM and the second was an evening performance at 7PM. They put a lot of time and hard work into rehearsals (several Saturdays and a few that were all day, from 9AM-3PM). Yep...it was quite a commitment for them. Lilyan and Liam also sang in the production, with their classes, from the bleachers. They all did a GREAT job and had LOTS of fun!!! SO very proud:)

Lorelle (aka Regina the Reindeer) with a cowgirl friend;)

My little "Stars"...Regina the Reindeer and The Candy Cane Kid:)

Leytan consoling Bubble Gum Bart...

My Star Student...

2011-12-22T18:27:00.000-08:00

Mr. Levi Michael Mingdong Perry was chosen to be "Star Student" during the last week of school, before Christmas break:) He was VERY excited! He did a great job on his poster and only had a little bit of spelling assistance from his sister. I also got to visit his class and read a couple books to his class on Thursday. He picked some very special books...both of which I had a part in creating for him. I am happy they mean so much to him and touched that he chose them to share with his friends. He is such a sweet, fun, smart and very handsome boy!!!

My Little Chefs;)

2011-12-18T17:59:00.000-08:00

I have been teaching my "littles" to cook. They are way ahead of the "bigs" now...lol! Levi especially loves to make scrambled eggs:) He even took his teacher scrambled eggs one morning for breakfast. He adds a little garlic salt and shredded cheddar cheese...SO good!!! We are gonna have a candy and cooking baking day on Thursday:) Can't wait!!!

Lorelle and Liam...

Levi...

Lorelle cracking eggs...

I need to teach them to make a few dinner items soon;)

Snow Day...NO SCHOOL!!!

2011-12-18T13:41:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, November 30th the kids got their wish, "Snow Day"...NO SCHOOL!!! It was a beautiful winter day. The sun was shining, the snow was perfect for sledding and playing in:) It was a FUN day fill of hot cocoa, sledding, relaxing and just enjoying time together. PERFECT!!!

SO pretty...

LOTS of sledding...

Chip barking at his kids sledding...

Lorelle and friends sippin on hot cocoa...

My China boys relaxin working on a puzzle...

The kids would REALLY like to have some more snow soon:) Bring it on!!!

Our FIRST Snow!!!

2011-12-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, November 29th we got our first "real" snow of Winter 2011-2012:) The kids were SUPER excited and had an absolute BLAST playing outside in it. LOVE this white, fluffy stuff!!!

Liam...

Lilyan...

My China girls...

Lorelle...

My China boys sippin hot cocoa...

~Love~

Decorating for Christmas...

2011-12-11T16:57:00.000-08:00

It is tradition at our house to decorate for Christmas the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The kids (except Landan) each decorated their very own tree again this year. Landan DID help Lilyan a little though...he is getting way too grown up;( They all had a BLAST!!! I am still having a hard time believing it is that time of year again. Where did the last year go?! Merry Christmas EVERYONE!!!

We are SO blessed:) Thank you Lord!!!

Thanksgiving Day 2011...

2011-12-11T16:38:00.000-08:00

Family~Food~Football

Live~Laugh~Love

Happy Birthday Uncle Bubba!!!

2011-12-11T16:24:00.000-08:00

Lance's brother Scott, celebrated his 44th birthday on Tuesday, November 22. We got a Betty's pumpkin spice cake for him since his special day is so close to Thanksgiving:) It was YUMMO!!!

Yep...the kids call him "Uncle Bubba":)

SO proud...LOL!

Blowing out his candles...

We LOVE you Uncle Bubba!!!

Colt's Football Game...

2011-12-11T15:50:00.000-08:00

Lance got us tickets for the Colt's game on Sunday, November 13th. Despite the fact that they REALLY stink this year...we are still fans;) We had 8 tickets so that we could take all the kiddos but that is not how it worked out. Lilyan had NO interest in going. Leytan ended up getting sick:( So...we called Grandma Linda in to hang out with Lilyan and Leytan, then let a couple of the others invite friends along. Landan took a long time friend, Conner and Lorelle invited her neighbor friend, Natalia. The Colts lost AGAIN:( But we still had a GREAT day!!!

Outside the stadium before the game...

Here they come...

The boys...

Action shot...

VERY cool halftime show...

Levi's FIRST Basketball Game:)

2011-12-03T05:08:00.000-08:00

Levi decided he would like to try playing basketball. I signed him up for a Saturday, YMCA league. He is really enjoying it and learning a lot too:) Here are some pictures from his FIRST game...

He needs some work on dribbling but they all do at his age and he HAS made improvements since this first game...

He didn't make any baskets the first game but has made several since...

Like soccer...he is GREAT at defense;)

Halloween Fun 2011...

2011-11-30T12:09:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed Halloween this year as usual;) The girls got their moneys worth out of their costumes. They were invited to a couple different costume/birthday parties and then of coarse also wore them for Trick-or-Treat night. Lilyan was a Zebra and Lorelle was a Skeleton. They were stylish little costumes and the girls insisted on make-up and colored hairspray this year too. Levi chose an Optimus Prime Transformer costume and Liam was a Skeleton Ninja. Leytan decided he did indeed want a costume...the day of Halloween, so he ended up with a Monk costume because that was all they had left in his size;) Landan stayed at home this year and pasted our candy while Lance and I walked around with the other kiddos and also my BFF's boys...McClain and Carter. It was a beautiful night but it seemed that not many kids came around this year. Lance and I dressed up for a Halloween party this year too:) Lance was Ricky Bobby from Talladega Nights and I was Karen the Cougar also from the movie. It was kinda fun to dress up for a change. FUN stuff!!!

Fall FUN!!!

2011-11-21T04:18:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon at the skating rink...

Raking leaves...

And...carving pumpkins:)

Riviera Maya, Mexico...

2011-11-20T15:34:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to go to back to Riviera Maya, Mexico for the kid's Fall Break from school. We visited the exact same resort (the El Cid) back in 2008 for the kid's Spring Break;) The resort is in a remote area not around any other resort, has HUGE rooms which is a must for our family and it is very kid friendly. The kids loved jumping off the high dive rocks, the water slide, volleyball, pottery painting and all the other poolside kid activities:) They also enjoy the beach activities: making sand castles, boogie boarding, canoeing, snorkeling, searching for shells, etc. I personally just love the chance to relax and not worry about cleaning, laundry, dinner, homework and other mom duties;) It is a nice break for everyone and a chance to just hang out together and have FUN! The weather was perfect and the sunrises just gorgeous. Traveling as a party of 10 with 4 "littles"...is NOT always stress free but it was a GREAT trip and I am very thankful for our family time together. I am BLESSED!!! I took hundreds of pictures but here are just a few...you can see the rest on Facebook if you want;)

My gorgeous little girls...

Three of my most precious China blessings...

Lorelle jumping off the high dive...

Beautiful Lilyan...

Last time we visited the El Cid, the kids got to hold iguanas and parrots...this time monkeys:) They were SO cute!!!

Lorelle snugglin up to a monkey...

Tough guy Leytan with his monkey dumb bells...

Lilyan's turn...

Mister Cool Man Levi...

Searchin for bugs on Liam...lol!

Kiddos on the top of the high dive rocks...

Andy and Lauren...so glad they could join us:)

In the ocean...

My girls playing in the waves...

Lilyan and Lorelle in their new Mexican dresses...

They LOVE playing in the sand...

Landan the stud...even in a cast;)

Leytan, Lorelle and Lance relaxing in the pool...

Landan flying off the high dive...NICE!!!

Us out on the deck...before a romantic dinner without our gang;)

We enjoyed the beautiful sunrises each morning...

Some of my peeps hangin at the water slide...

My big boys boogie boardin...

Such a GREAT...

God is GOOD and we are BLESSED!!!

The End of Fall Sports...

2011-11-10T17:25:00.000-08:00

Wow...has it really been almost a month since I have posted?! Busy, Busy...but FUN!!! Fall sports have officially come to an end. Leytan's peewee football team had an undefeated season and he had a BLAST playing. He did have to miss his last game (so...sorry no pics) because it was over Fall Break when we were in Mexico but he got over it;) Landan's team won all but one game and actually came back to beat this team during the NELMSC championship game. Yep...the 8th Grade Tigers are the NELMSC CHAMPIONS!!! It was an exciting final game and Landan ROCKED an interception...even in his cast. Landan had a fun year and I LOVED watching him play. He did get his cast removed a couple weeks after his final game...all healed:)

Landan #35...

Landan with his coach...

So PROUD of these boys!!!

Landan with his proud parents... Still can't believe he is taller than me;(

Levi, Liam and Lorelle also had their last soccer game. It was fun having them all on the same team this fall and very convenient for me too;) I am especially proud of Liam for playing. He gives it his all out on the field and really had a good time. Lorelle missed the last game since her and Leytan made cast for the school play. I let her choose and she didn't want to miss cast rehearsals;) She is REALLY excited about being in the school play. I can't wait to watch it.

Liam (3) and Levi (4) in action...

They had an amazing coach...Thanks Coach Kondo!!!

Kercher's Apple Orchard...

2011-10-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

On Thursday I went on Levi's FIRST ever official school "Field Trip". He was SO excited!!! We took a bus ride about a half hour away to Kercher's Apple Orchard in Goshen, IN. Believe it or not...this was one field trip that I have never taken with the other kiddos so I was excited to go too;) It was a really nice orchard. We ate our packed lunches, watched a movie about apples while drinking apple cider, took a tour of the orchard, picked some apples and gourds, went on a hay ride and walked through a corn maze. It was TONS of fun!!! Levi and his classmates all had a great time too:) Anytime I get to spent some one on one time with any of my children it means a lot to me. I have missed my afternoons with Levi...so it was really nice to have this time with my baby boy. He is such a blessing to me and our entire family. LOVE you Levi!!!

My big strong boy...

Class picture...

Apple cider in apple cups...

Careful to twist not pull...

Me and my baby boy...

Chicago Marathon 2011!!!

2011-10-13T19:15:00.000-07:00

On the early morning of Sunday, Oct. 9th Lance ran his 2nd Marathon... yep, that's 26.2 miles! Lance and I headed to Chicago Saturday morning. We arrived in time to visit the convention center to pick Lance's race packet (with his bib number, shoe tag, etc), check into our hotel, and have lunch at the Rosebud, then back to our room for a movie and finally a carbo load dinner at Buca Di Beppo. I didn't really need the extra carbs since I wasn't running but ate like I did anyway;)

Lance found his name on the participant "Wall of Fame"...

The Wall...

Early morning, about an hour before start time...

Runners starting to line up...

After Lance left me to line up...I wandered around Grant Park and took pictures;)

Our meeting spot after the race...

COOL Leg Sculptures....

And their off...

45,000+ runners...WOW!!!

Unfortunately Lance ended up twisting his ankle at the mile 8 water station:( BUT...he kept on running and finished the last 18 miles with a swollen, purple and very sore ankle. He was determined to finish the Chicago Marathon and he did it...in 4 hours and 26 minutes. He finished the Grand Rapids Marathon last year in 4 hours and 17 minutes...so considering his injury, I think he did AMAZINGLY well. I am VERY proud of him and excited to see what he can do in his 3rd marathon at Disney World come January:)

Lance with his medal, beer and Gatorade...right after the race:)

Picture I took of his ankle right after...

Picture I took after we got back to the hotel...OUCH!!!

The BEST part...is that Lance ran for the American Liver Foundation and raised $5,918.00 for this great cause. A HUGE "Thank You!" to all of you who made a donation and helped him reach this goal. AWESOME weekend!!!

Courthouse/Justice Building Field Trip:)

2011-10-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

On October 6th...I went on a field trip with my third graders:) I was officially chaperoning with Lilyan's class but did also get to see Lorelle and Liam briefly. The kids all enjoyed it and the weather was just gorgeous. I feel so blessed to be able to remain a stay at home Mom and be as involved with the kids classed as I want to. I know it means a lot to them too. God is GOOD!!!

Miss Lilyan with her classmates in an old courtroom...

The dome and one of the teachers peaking down at the kids...

Lilyan with her class, teacher and principal on the courthouse steps...

Got a quick pic of Miss Lorelle...

BEAUTIFUL, sunny October day!!!!

Jersey Day @ Harrison Elementary:)

2011-10-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

Are my kids CUTE or what?!?!

Leytan's 12th Birthday!!!

2011-09-30T04:14:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 24th...Leytan turned 12 years old. It is truly hard to believe. My kids are growing up way too fast:( I am SO proud of the young man he has become. He is so smart, kind, very handsome and such a FUN boy!!! He had 5 friends over for a sleepover to celebrate. We took them to Buffalo Wild Wings (Leytan's FAVORITE!) for dinner. They had a great time. Then it was home for cheesecake, instead of birthday cake...also Leytan's request;) Some of his friends had never even had cheesecake before. Leytan LOVES my homemade cheesecakes:) Leytan and his buddies played Nerf guns, video games and football late into the night...actually early the next morning;) I think he enjoyed his celebration. Thank you Jesus for my Sunshine! Happy Birthday Leytan!!!

Coach Leytan, getting the Gatorade treatment...LOL!

The gang...

My "Sunshine"...as I like to call him;)

Playing trivia at Buffalo Wild Wings...

Opening a few gifts...

We LOVE you Leytan!!!

6 YEARS!!!

2011-09-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

On September 20th, we celebrated Lorelle's 6 year "Gotcha Day". I can't believe how quickly time goes by...SLOW down already;) She has grown and changed so much since our first meeting at that government building in Guangzhou, China. WOW...what an AMAZING ride!!!

6 YEARS!!!

We love you SO, SO much Miss Lorelle Yan!!!

My Twins...

2011-09-22T18:34:00.000-07:00

The little kids school, Harrison Elementary, recently had "Twin Day":) They had a GREAT time dressing alike. The girls even matched their hair style, necklaces and sweatshirts. The boys had matching sweaters, jeans and wanted to have the same breakfast, including matching dishes;) FUN stuff!!!

My BEAUTIFUL girls...

Double the FUN!!!

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival 2011:)

2011-09-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

September 12th was a Chinese holiday...the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival. We didn't go to an actual formal celebration but we did acknowledge the special day and had our own celebration of sorts;) Levi chose to wear some traditional Chinese clothes to school, we ate Chinese food for dinner, did crafts and ate moon cakes:) The kids made dragon paper lanterns, panda and/or lion puppets and even used their chinese chops (hand crafted stamps with their names) as decoration. We had the treat of actual Chinese made mooncakes...hand delivered from China. Thanks Greg!!! Levi LOVED them!!! The other kids tried a bite and gave theirs to Levi;) The moon sure was BIG and BEAUTIFUL! My thoughts drifted off to China, more than usual, on this day...to the birthmothers of my children and the precious gift that they have given our family. Oh how we have been BLESSED!!!

At dinner...

Hard at work...

Lilyan's Panda Puppet...

Lorelle's Panda Puppet...

Liam's Lion Puppet...

Lilyan working hard on her Dragon Lantern...

Time to eat their Mooncakes...

One big world...one big, bright, beautiful Moon:)

May God Bless the precious children of China and the birthmothers that have to let them go...AMEN!!!

Fall Soccer!!!

2011-09-19T04:32:00.000-07:00

Levi, Lorelle and Liam are all playing fall soccer. This is Liam's first year to play and I am VERY proud of him. They are on a co-ed team and I was able to get them on a team all together:) They are having a BLAST and are ALL doing very well. Liam refuses to wear his leg so he does fall down quite a bit but it doesn't stop him from trying his best and being really aggressive. Lorelle has gotten a goal and Levi is rockin on defense and goalie. They have had 2 games so far and will play for the next several saturdays. I LOVE watching them all play!!!

Liam running SO fast...

Levi stopping a ball...

Good game, good game...

Get it Levi!

GO Liam!

Look at that face...lol:)

Football!!!

2011-09-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

Landan and Leytan are both playing football this fall. Landan #35 for his middle school and Leytan #12 on the local pee wee football league. The have each had a few games now and are both doing GREAT!!! Landan has been playing mostly safety and tight end. He is also on the kicking team and returns punts:) Leytan has been playing both the defensive and offensive line. He can't carry the ball because of his weight (league rule)...but would LOVE to try playing running back next year in middle school;) Despite not being able to carry the ball, he did manage to score...a safely:) They are both having a BLAST! And we are all really enjoying watching them play this year.

Landan's 70 yard Touchdown catch!!!

Look at that running form;)

Handsome Leytan...

Leytan kicking...

Landan blocking...

My big boy...

Tigers and Steelers are both UNDEFEATED!!! GREAT job boys!!!

Labor Day Weekend 2011:)

2011-09-08T08:30:00.001-07:00

Saturday was perfect for our last pool day of the summer...sunny and warm:) I am gonna miss our pool time:( We are hoping to sell our land so that we can get a pool in our backyard next summer. Keeping my fingers crossed...lol! Sunday was church as usual and then Sunday evening we took some friends out for dinner. It was in celebration of my friend Sheri's 40th birthday in June. Yah...celebrated a little late but better late, than never;) We went to Takaoka of Japan. It was DELICIOUS!!! Then out for ice cream for dessert:)

YUM!!!

Happy Birthday Sheri!!! We love you guys:)

It was much cooler on Monday so we thought it would be a perfect day to take the kids to ride their dirt bikes. They had a BLAST as usual. Landan and Leytan each took a friend along and they especially had a GREAT time. Lance also gave the littles wild and crazy 4-wheeler rides:)

Lorelle and ornery Miss Lilyan...look at that face?! LOL!

Leytan...

Landan...

Liam...

Landan...

A GREAT, RELAXING, long weekend!!!

1 Year...Gotcha Day!!!

2011-09-07T09:17:00.000-07:00

On August 30th, we celebrated 1 whole year with Levi:) It is hard to believe...but it has been an entire year now since I first got to hug and kiss this amazing boy. He is such a blessing to our family. We celebrated with dinner out at the Great Wall Restaurant. My kids can seriously put away some Chinese food. WOW! I also gave him a book I made all about our time together in China. He LOVES it!!! I made one for each of our adopted kiddos and gave it to them on their 1 year "Gotcha Day":) Levi is so smart, sweet and fun. His adjustment here has probably been the easiest of them all. I know I have his foster mama to thank for this...may God bless her! We LOVE you SO very much sweet Levi!!!

Levi with his book... Gotta LOVE that smile and those dimples:)

Baptism!!!

2011-09-03T14:09:00.000-07:00

On Sunday August 20th, Lance baptized 3 of our children. Landan, Leytan and Lorelle chose to be baptized:) Lance took them to a baptism class at our church WCC earlier in the week. The baptism celebration took place at Hidden Lake and afterward we had a carry-in dinner to celebrate with our church family. About 150+ people made the decision to make this public statement on this beautiful afternoon...PRAISE THE LORD!!! Lance and I got baptized together about 12 years ago...I was actually pregnant with Leytan;) It was so touching to see my children now make this decision. God is SO good!!! May He continue to guide my children...AMEN!!!

LOVE these picture of Lance and our kiddos...

Lorelle with her baptismal water...

SO happy and proud of you Landan, Lorelle and Leytan...

What an AMAZING day!!!

Camping Slumber Party!!!

2011-08-30T17:17:00.000-07:00

On August 20th we had a birthday slumber party for Lorelle. We decided to wait and have it after school had started so that she could invite some friends from school. Lorelle chose to have a camping theme and wanted to sleep out in the backyard in a tent:) It ending up raining so they camped out in the house instead. We did have hot dogs and smores though;) She had a GREAT time celebrating with her friends. Thanks to everyone for making her feel so special...because she IS:)

Opening a few gifts...THANKS!!!

Snacks in the tent...

Dancing on the Wii...

Trampoline FUN...

and soccer!!!

Lorelle with her cookie cake...YUM!

The gang...GIRLS! GIRLS! GIRLS!

Smore and her new ipod touch...What MORE can a girl want?!?!

Happy 9th Birthday Miss Lorelle Yan!!!

First Day of the 2011-2012 School Year!!!

2011-08-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that my kiddos are now in 8th, 6th, 3rd x 3 and 1st grade!!! I have the entire school day to myself now...WHAT?! The kids have been in school now for a couple weeks and I am just getting these pictures posted...so I am obviously keeping busy. With workouts, appointments, laundry, shopping, lunch and breakfast dates, etc...my days actually go by very quickly. It is SO quiet here during the day:) The kids are all doing GREAT in school so far and they are keeping my after school hours VERY busy with homework, sports and other activities:) I think it going to be a good year for all of us. Thank you Lord for blessing us so!

Landan leaves the house about 7:10AM...

The rest of us leave about 8:30AM...Leytan will join his big brother with the early morning schedule next year;)

They all had a GREAT first day!!! Actually a GREAT first couple weeks too;)

Down on the Farm;)

2011-08-22T10:25:00.001-07:00

My lifelong best friend Regina recently sold her boat and lake house and moved from her "laker girl" status to "farm girl"...LOL! They now have land, pigs, will soon have cows, a garden, tractors, etc... They also just got a GREAT new pool with diving board:o) We pulled into their driveway one recent afternoon and this is what we found...yep, a horse and a wagon FULL of puppies. The neighbor kids had brought over the horse and puppies to play. Here in our neighborhood the kids just take their bikes or scooters;) My kids thought the horse and puppies were GREAT fun! The puppies were VERY cute but NO we didn't bring one home. Thanks for sharing your "farm" with us McCorkle Family!!! Thanks to your neighbors too:)

Lorelle REALLY wanted to bring one home...

Liam enjoyed walking the horse around the yard...

This was my fave...the cutest little nose and bright blue eyes. Tempting YES, but I really do NOT need the extra work involved.

Levi diving in...you can see the pigs in the pen in the background;)

Liam the ORNRY!!!

Lorelle is 9 Years Old!!! What?!

2011-08-22T09:50:00.000-07:00

On August 10th, Lorelle turned 9! I can't believe it. She is growing up WAY to quickly:( She traded in her High School Musical bedding for this more teeny bopper bedding (below) and her ipod is attached to her at all times now;) We didn't have a big party on her actual day. I just took her and Lilyan to get their nails done and then we had dinner at Hacienda with our extended family plus one of Lorelle's neighborhood BFFs;) It was a FUN day and a GREAT dinner!!! Happy 9th Birthday Queen Lorelle Yan Perry!!! We all love you VERY much!!!

New bedding she picked out...

Getting her nails done...

Lilyan got her nails done too...

Black and green crackle...

Silver and blue for Miss Lilyan...

My girls...thinkin they are "ALL THAT!"

My smiling, birthday girl...in her sombrero:)

We shared mudslides instead of cake...YUM!

Natalia and Lorelle inhaling theirs...LOL!

Sure hope the next year goes by a little bit slower...NOT ready for her to be in the double digits!

Brickyard 400...2011:)

2011-08-22T09:32:00.000-07:00

While the girls and I were floating down the creek...Lance took all 4 of our boys to the Brickyard 400. This was Levi's first race;) They all had a GREAT time!!! Here are a few pictures Lance took with his phone. They had really good seats and in the shade:) FUN stuff!!!

LOVE our boys!!!

Visit with My Granny...

2011-08-22T08:50:00.000-07:00

The last weekend in July, I went to southern Indiana with my dad, his girlfriend Amy, Amy's sister Kimberly, my sister Maddy and my girls...Lorelle and Lilyan:) It is not easy to find the time, with a husband and 7 kiddos, to visit as often as I would like. And with the crazy school/sports schedule about to begin, I REALLY wanted to go see her. She is not feeling well most days now and it breaks my heart. I wish she could be here with me on earth forever. I have always had a special connection with my Granny. I LOVED spending some time with her but felt like I was saying goodbye when it was time to leave:( Please Lord be with her (and her incredible husband Don)... I love you both!!!

The whole gang...

Me, Dad and Maddy with Granny...

We visited with Granny and Don on Saturday and we all went out to dinner at the Turkey Run Lodge. It was a delicious buffet:) Then before returning home on Sunday we floated down Sugar Creek in inner tubes. It was beautiful, relaxing and a lot of fun BUT it would have been even better if the water wasn't so low and slow. It took us longer than we thought so we were all pretty thirsty and ready for some air conditioning when we finished. GREAT experience for my girls! Unfortunately, my computer crashed and I had to get the hard drive replaced...so I lost all the pictures (that I didn't have backed up yet...UGH!) that I took from our time on the river and from our visit with Granny. Thank goodness...Amy also took a few pictures (above:) A HUGE thank you to you Amy!!! It was a nice weekend and one I will always cherish.

Zoo trip with their cousins:)

2011-08-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

I think this was our 3rd trip to the Ft. Wayne Children's Zoo so far this year. The kids never seem to get tired of going. Thank goodness for our family membership...we get our money's worth;) It was a HOT one but the kids didn't seem to mind much. We had another WONDERFUL visit!!! We took lots of group pictures with their cousins. See below...

The AWESOME Perry Gang!!!

The peacocks were showing off their feathers...

They got to pet a snake...

Gotta LOVE those smiles:)

The orangutang was eating carrots...

Lilyan didn't want to be in this picture...haha, got her anyway!

Lots more group pics...

Then home to make our own kabobs for dinner:) YUM!

GREAT day!!!

Summer FUN with the Indy Perrys:)

2011-08-03T05:38:00.000-07:00

Uncle Bubba (aka Scott), Aunt Mindy, Ashley and Angela came to Warsaw for a long weekend. The kids had a GREAT time together!!! They did lots of swimming, jumping and other stuff:)

Swimming in the pond...

Throwing Lorelle...

Levi's turn to be launched...

Built lots of pyramids...

Skinny little Levi on top...

Aunt Mindy playing with the girls...

Diving board action shots...

LOVE Lilyan's smile...

Leytan...

Lorelle...

Dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings...beautiful girls!

A couple of SUPER cute, amazing Perry kids...

LOVE you guys!!!

Six Flags!!!

2011-08-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday morning, July 19th...we woke and headed to Six Flags with the gang. It was so HOT!!! Lance and I tried convincing the kids to just go to the water park area but NOPE...they are die-hards. They wanted to ride...RIDES! We drank lots of water and rode the water rides a few times;) All the kids...except Lilyan, want to ride whatever they are big enough to ride;) I sat by Liam on the American Eagle (The worlds largest and fastest wooden coaster:) and he totally cracked me up. He kept yelling "This is INSANE Mom!" the entire time. SO much fun!!! Liam and Levi need a few more inches before they can ride everything they want. We probably won't take the littles back for a couple years. Leytan was super brave and rode everything his big brother rode. All the kids had a BLAST despite the heat. After 6+ hours...Lance and I were ready to go back to our hotel for a shower. The bigs stayed for a couple more hours and then we picked them up for dinner at Lone Star Steakhouse:) Such a hot, tiring but SUPER fun day!!!

All 7 kiddos...

My China peeps with Foghorn Leghorn...

Lance, Lorelle and Levi on the balloon ride...

My STUNNINGLY beautiful Miss Lilyan...

Liam hugging Sylvester...

Liam and Levi posing with Sylvester...

Levi and Liam in front of the bat mobile...

We made the big boys ride the oldest and probably littlest coaster with us;)

Keylime Cove!!!

2011-08-01T17:44:00.000-07:00

On July 18th, Liam had a check-up visit with his orthopedic surgeon in Chicago so we loaded up the big black bus with 7 kiddos (Landan took a friend:) and began our journey. After the appointment, we spent the rest of Monday at the water park in our hotel...Keylime Cove. Then enjoyed some delicious Chicago style pizza at Giordanos for dinner. YUM!!! Keylime Cove is great because they have rooms to fit our family. I also like that the water park area is not too big and I can keep better track of everyone. The big boys would have liked it if they had some bigger slides but it is PERFECT for my littles. We all had a FABULOUS and relaxing time!!!

Water Basketball...

Enough with the pictures mom...

My wild boys being lazy in the lazy river:)

Floating and snuggling with my Liam...

She wishes this was REAL!!! Lorelle my sweet tooth...

Lorelle giving her "little sister" a piggy-back ride...LOL!

Our China Peeps...Adoption Reunion:)

2011-08-01T17:09:00.000-07:00

Almost 6 years ago now on the other side of the world, in a far away land called China, God brought together four families through adoption. We have stayed in touch and watched each others families grow and continue to be blessed by His love. A few weeks ago we got to spend the weekend together and had such a GREAT time! All together God had blessed us with 11 adopted children...so far:) And also too many to count home grown kiddos...that are not pictured below;) Love you all SO much!!! And miss you already;( Thank you Lord...

Can you guess which little one is not from Asia?! :)

Happy 14th Birthday Landan!!!

2011-07-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

Landan turned 14 year old on July 7th! He did not have a big party this year. His dad and I got him an iphone a couple days before his special day. And on his actual birthday...I took the kids to Somethin Funn, then also invited some family and one of Landan's friends to dinner at Hacienda. He also had a couple of his friends spend the night. I think he had a good day. He is growing up, so big and tall, mature...such an amazing young man. I love you sweet boy!!!

Lorelle was excited to finally be tall enough to drive herself in the go-carts;)

Silly boys...

Watching Landan open up a gift...

Happy Birthday song, balloons and sombrero:)

A beautiful sunset for Landan's birthday...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Landan!!!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2011-07-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

We just hung out at home on Monday...the actual 4th:) The kids played and we had family over for a cookout. Our neighbor puts on a GREAT firework show for our "back pond" families. Thanks Mike! I am SO thankful that my family and I live in a country with such Freedom. May God Bless the USA and all who keep us safe!!!

Our family had such an AMAZING weekend of celebration!!!

4th of July Weekend...Sunday:)

2011-07-15T18:00:00.001-07:00

Sunday was a pool party day at our friends (and neighbor's house;) We were there late into the night and they were amazing hosts, keeping us all fed and thoroughly hydrated. I little TOO hydrated in my case...LOL! Let's just say... I didn't feel so well later that night or the next morning. I was reminded why I typically stick to red wine only. WOW! Besides that...we had a GREAT time! Three of my kiddos ended up spending the night even. Such a FUN day for all!

Thank you so much Hall Family!!!

4th of July Weekend...Saturday:)

2011-07-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

We had a busy, FUN filled day! We started by taking our gang to the Winona Lake Park for some of the holiday weekend activities. They played in the blow-up, jumpy things; got balloon swords and hats; and the best part...spraying a real fire truck hose:) The big boys mostly enjoyed the homemade ice cream. Lance and I, the pulled pork barbeque sandwiches...ya know us Perry's like our food;) LOL!

The best kind of sword fight...with balloon swords;)

Nice hat Lorelle...

Liam really concentrating on his work...

Levi LOVING it...

Mr. Fireman changing the spray to get him wet:)

Lorelle's turn...

Thinking it is harder to control than it looks...

Our second stop was the pool:) The kids played hard and impressed us with more of their diving board moves. We SO enjoy our fun and relaxation time at the pool. Such GREAT family time!

Catch it Lilyan!

He seriously needs to STOP growing so big and handsome;)

One of Levi's twist and flip dives...

It's a bird, it's a plane...nope just Super Landan! LOL!

Lance and Leytan hangin...

Liam's been making pool naps a regular thing lately...

Lilyan on her daddy...

Makes my heart sing... to see Lilyan play with her dad:)

The girls standing/balancing on Lance's back...

Look how high Leytan is?! Bootie above the fence...LOL!

LOVE this one!

Lorelle giving her dad a massage...

On Saturday evening we attended a fireworks party on Winona Lake. Unfortunately...it stormed and the fireworks were canceled:( We did enjoy the food and face painting though;)

Love my man...and my family SO much!!!

4th of July Weekend...Friday Evening:)

2011-07-11T11:29:00.000-07:00

On the late afternoon of Friday, July 1st, I took my gang to Ft. Wayne. We went to Chuck E. Cheese for games and then to Red Robin for dinner. We wanted to get out of the house to let Lance nap...since he just returned from a looong few days of travel:( After we got home, we watched a movie and then drove out to some friend's house to watch firework. You put on one AMAZING show Dean!!!

Our gang...oops our picture taker cut Leytan off;( It WAS hard for her to see in the dark...

Proof that Leytan really was there...lol;)

Cool dude Levi...having a snack:)

LOVED the fireworks!!!

Heading back to the van...after the show;) Lorelle is such a Daddy's girl!

Lilyan getting a ride from her big brother:)

One night of fun down...and 3 more to go!!!

More Miscellaneous Pool Pics:)

2011-07-06T20:33:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not...I don't take my camera every time we go to the pool;) But here are a few more of my faves:) What a GREAT summer activity for the kiddos and one they will surely miss come the winter months. They sure manage to do some CrAzY stuff off the diving board!

Leytan flying high...

Yep...Landan earns a nice red chest from this one:) LOL!

Touching his toes...

What a great smile...

The basketball dunk move?!

Pretty Princess Lilyan....

Liam and Levi = Double TOUBLE!!!

LOVE our pool time!

Dirtbikes!

2011-06-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

We took our kiddos to ride their dirtbikes on Saturday afternoon. They have been riding for several years now...Landan started on the 50 that Liam and Levi ride now;) Lorelle rides a 70 and the big boys each have a 140. All the kids except Lilyan LOVE to ride! Lilyan can do it and has rode, but she just doesn't enjoy it like her siblings do. She brings her 3DS or just watches with me:) I don't go every time Lance takes the kids, so when I do...I try to get pictures and videos. See below...

Landan...

Leytan...

Levi...

Lorelle on the 4 wheeler...

Landan getting some air...

Cool dude Levi...waiting for his turn;)

Liam...

Levi helping Liam with his helmet:)

My big boys...

Levi...

My handsome Landan...

Liam and Leytan on the 4 wheeler...

Landan and Lorelle...

Leytan and Landan jumping...

They had a BLAST! Then it was off to the pool:)

Fort Wayne Children's Zoo...

2011-06-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

We made our FIRST trip to the zoo last week! My gang always enjoys our visits to see the animals and ride the rides. We'll be heading back in a few weeks with their cousins:) Such a GREAT little zoo!

My little monkeys...looking at the monkeys:) LOL!!!

Princess Lilyan upon her horse...

Lorelle relaxing in the hammock...

My goofy Liam...

My China boys...

My always HAPPY Leytan...

Leytan Dale...quit feeding the goat your map! LOL!!!

Camp With An IMPACT @ Camp Adventure!!!

2011-06-27T15:48:00.000-07:00

Landan and Leytan both spent a week at church camp this summer. It was called Camp With An IMPACT...and it is at Camp Adventure:) This was Landan's 3rd year and Leytan's 1st year. They both had a BLAST!!! Leytan came back different...I remember Landan came back from his first year very much the same way. He said they had some VERY deep discussions at camp;) I am so thankful for WCC and the children's programs they offer for my kiddos. SO blessed!!!

The boys of Solomon's Seal...

Leytan with his cabin mates...

Landan on the giant slip-n-slide...

Silly boys...

Unfortunately, I couldn't locate many pictures of Leytan online but did find quite a few of Landan and his cabin mates:) Thank you Lord for being a part of my children's lives and loving them even MORE than I do!!!

Afternoon of FUN!

2011-06-26T17:21:00.000-07:00

We hung out at our neighborhood beach one afternoon. The kids had a BLAST playing in the water, boat and on the swing set. They even caught a toad:) It's the simple things in life...

Lilyan relaxin on the raft...

Leytan took turns giving the kids boat rides out to the fountain to get sprayed:)

Lilyan my little toad lover... Lorelle screams and won't get near them. LOL!

Levi...my littlest monkey;)

Playing Gaga ball on the trampoline... a FAVORITE since the boys returned from camp:)

God is GOOD!!!

Tarzan!!!

2011-06-26T16:52:00.000-07:00

I also took the littles to see the musical Tarzan at the Wagon Wheel Theatre while the bigs were at church camp:) They really enjoyed it! We had to go to Walmart to buy the Disney movie on DVD so that they could watch and compare afterward;) We are so blessed to have a such a wonderful little playhouse here in Warsaw, IN. They really put on some great shows that our family can enjoy and see together:)

We had an ice cream lunch before the matinee...

Lorelle with the young Tarzan...

Tarzan's Mom...Karla;)

The grown up Tarzan...

Jane...

Science Central...

2011-06-26T16:27:00.000-07:00

I took the littles to Science Central when the bigs were at church camp. They had a FUN time!

Happy Father's Day!!!

2011-06-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

Father's Day was a relaxing one this year:) I prepared dinner in the morning...shish-kabobs (sausage, steak and chicken with veggies;) cheesy potatoes... and thanks to Amy and Eva for the yummy deserts. We took our gang to the pool and then a cookout with our dads in the evening. We are SO blessed to have so many GREAT fathers/grandfathers in our lives...Our Heavenly Father, Chuck, Ken and my kiddos father, Lance:) We LOVE you all!!!

My Dad with his girls...Maddy and Me:)

CONGRATULATIONS Rebekah Sue!!!

2011-06-23T04:48:00.000-07:00

My BEAUTIFUL niece graduated from Tippecanoe Valley High School, with honors, on June 5th:) Ummm...having a flashback 21 years to when I was standing in this very same commons area with my diploma in hand;) SO proud of you Becky!!! Wasn't I just changing your diapers a couple year ago?! LOL! I LOVE you girl!!!

Last Day of School...2010-2011

2011-06-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I am officially a Mom to a college graduate, an 8th grader, 6th grader, 3-3rd graders and a 1st grader!!! WHAT?!

Lauren finished her time at Ball State with honors. She is an amazing student...always has been:) She started interviewing right away and it didn't take her long to acquire a job as a 4th grade teacher at Riddle Elementary in Rochester, Indiana. We are SO proud of her!!!

Landan got all A's this year. He is a smarty pants like his big sister;) He took Algebra and did VERY well. Can't beat getting high school credits as a 7th grader. SO proud of all his hard work!

Leytan also had a wonderful year. I anticipated 5th grade being a bit of a challenge for him but that did not seem to be the case at all. He was on the honor roll all year! He became so much more independent this year. I only remember him bringing homework home a couple times...he always "finished it at school". This made for a relaxing year for him and I;) My boy is growing up and I am SO proud of him!

Liam had a good year. He LOVED his teacher! He is struggling a bit in reading. But hopefully summer school and his reading tutor this summer will get him caught up a bit;) He excelled in Math...even with the Singapore change this year. He and Lilyan are in a math group higher than Lorelle so they are challenged a little more. This was the "triplets" first year to get actual grades and Liam held a B average all year. GREAT job Liam!

Lorelle got straight A's all year! She really stepped it up this year. Having such a GREAT teacher makes all the difference:) She also REALLY enjoys school...mostly the social aspect of it;)

Lilyan also had a great year! She got mostly A's...but did struggle a little with the new Math;( I wouldn't say she loves school but she does very well and her teachers all LOVE her. She is a "perfect student". She always tries her best, obeys all the rules and is annoyed by those who do not;) She is a great little reader...even though she doesn't particularly enjoy that either. LOL!

Levi blew by my expectations this year! Starting the school year late and with very little English did not stop my little boy from learning. He is a VERY quick learner and naturally a smart kid. I can tell already that he will also excel in Math and his reading is coming along very well. He is sounding out and reading small words. It is absolutely AMAZING to me the progress he has made! He is also working with a reading tutor this summer and I have no doubts that he will do GREAT in 1st grade:) Levi...you ROCK!

Below and some pictures of the kids on their last day of school...

Landan receiving his algebra award...

Yes...I have him trained to pose for a picture;)

Physical Education award...

Levi with his teacher...

Lorelle with her teacher...who just had a baby:)

Lorelle with the sub teacher...whom she also LOVED!

Lilyan with her teacher...

Leytan with his teacher...

Levi with his awards... SO proud!

After his last day of kindergarten, Levi wanted to go to the pool. We had a relaxing afternoon...just the two of us:) I will miss all my one-on-one time with him next year;(

Levi thought this picture was cool since he is "walking on water":)

Cannonball!!!

My happy boy...

Time for lunch...

Found a potato bug, rolly polly or whatever these things are called...lol!

After school...I took the gang to see Kung Fu Panda. It was a good movie but an emotional one for a few of us. What a GREAT day and an AMAZING school year!!! I hope the next one is just as FUN but maybe not go by so fast;)

Field Day 2011...

2011-06-13T06:18:00.001-07:00

On June 1st, my little Huskies had Field Day. I volunteered to help for the day:) We had gorgeous weather and the kids had a GREAT time! Wow...what a QUICK but FUN school year!

My handsome Leytan...can't believe he will be a 6th grader next year;(

Before school...Lilyan and I opted to just wear our Field Day shirts from last year;)

Purple team...

Lorelle playing the hockey game...

Mom...the sun is too bright for a picture;)

Liam's turn...

Levi hula hooping...

Lilyan wrapping her team mate up like a mummy...

GOOD TIMES!!!

Back to the pool:)

2011-06-13T05:55:00.000-07:00

The littles had so much fun on Memorial Day that they wanted to go back ASAP. I took them after school on Tuesday. We had the pool to ourselves and they had a BLAST!!! My little fish...

Super Levi!

Happy Liam!

Playing catch...

Princess Lilyan!

Woohoo...

The kiddos jumping off the diving board...

We have returned several times since:) They LOVE the pool!!!

Memorial Day 2011!!!

2011-06-07T17:15:00.001-07:00

A day at the pool and a cookout with my AMAZING family:) PERFECT day!!!

My handsome teenager...

Landan flipping Lorelle...

And on his shoulders...

Love this ornry baby face...

My China peeps...

Liam on Andy...

Thanks to all the military men and women who keep our country free and safe!!!

God Bless you all!!!

National Honor Society...

2011-06-07T16:57:00.001-07:00

On May 25th, Landan was inducted into the National Honor Society. We are SO proud of his hard work, leadership and dedication. Congratulations Landan!!! We love you!

Landan and some of his friends after the ceremony...

Pizza and Prosthetic...LOL!

2011-06-07T16:39:00.000-07:00

Levi recently made and ate his first pizza. He does NOT like cheese so his pizza mostly consisted of sauce and pepperoni. I think he did sprinkle on a little grated parmesan;) He thought it was really cool to prepare his own dinner.

In other news...Liam has a new leg!!! We have been working with the University of Michigan to have a custom made prosthetic designed for Liam. The finished product actually came in the mail:) Liam put it right on and took off. He even went out right away to try out his scooter. He is doing great with it. It does my heart good to see him able to stand so straight and PROUD!!!

Walking tall and looking COOL;)

On his scooter...

One Relaxing, MOSTLY Sunny, Sunday Afternoon...

2011-06-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

Trampoline FUN...

Football...

Lance loving on his girl...

Sure wish he would quit growing...

Here come the storm clouds...

All the above pictures were taken on May 22nd;) Slowing trying to catch up on posts...

Mr. Polston's Reading Program...

2011-06-04T04:44:00.000-07:00

My littles finished their reading goals for the year! They were rewarded with a trip to go bowling with their principal...Mr. P:)

Levi with his girls...

Levi showing me his moves...

And....he got a STRIKE!!!

Silly Lorelle...

Lilyan's turn...

My happy Liam...

Lilyan's "will you quit taking pictures of me" look...LOL!

Liam with his buddies...

GREAT fun!!! I am guessing we will be spending some more time at The Bowling Alley this summer;)

Landan's Spring Choir Concert...

2011-06-04T04:18:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, May 19th, Landan had his last choir concert of the year. They sang some GREAT songs! They included...Do Wa Diddy, My Girl, Stand By Me and Lorelle's favorite, Firework;) The boy's choir sang a few songs alone, the girl's choir sang some alone and then they combined them for a few. I especially LOVE listening to the boys sing:) Landan might not love it like his brother but he does a GREAT job.

Landan doing the motions and I think enjoying...Firework:)

Singing...My Girl:)

Song & Dance Man by George M. Cohan...

2011-06-04T03:55:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, May 12, yes...when I was in gone in the Bahamas;( Bad Mom!!! Leytan performed in the school musical. They had both an afternoon performance and an evening performance. Leytan had a pretty major speaking cast part in the afternoon...as Patrick. Then in the evening performance had a major singing part...as Johnny Jones. Yes, there were solos. I was SO nervous for him even being thousands of miles away. Maybe it WAS a God thing for me not to be in the actual audience. I would have never, ummm...STILL would never have the guts to sing in front of hundreds of people. I couldn't even get up the nerves to sing karaoke at the poolside bar after a couple drinks...lol! I DID get to see a DVD of his performances when I returned and he was visibly nervous but was SO brave. He did a GREAT job on both parts! SO proud of my Song and Dance Man:) All the hours of hard work paid off and most of all he had a BLAST! It is so great to see him doing what he enjoys. It even gave him the confidence to try out for a part at our local playhouse. He didn't get a call back but I was just proud of him for giving it a shot. He is such an AMAZING, FUN boy!!!

Cast Pictures...

Being silly:)

Happy 9th Birthday Liam!!!

2011-05-25T11:15:00.001-07:00

Liam wanted to pick out his "own pet" for his birthday. On the Saturday before his birthday, I took him to our local pet store Paws and Claws to pick something out. I think he really wanted a rabbit but they didn't have rabbits so he settled for a guinea pig;) She has red eyes and red (orange) fur so he named her "Red". He LOVES Red...all the kids do! BUT...guess who is allergic to him?! LIAM!!! He breaks out, sneezes and his eyes get itchy. UGH!!! I moved Red out of Liam's room. I believe if Liam is careful not to hold her directly on his skin and to wash his hands afterward...I think all will be fine and Red should be able to stay;) Liam planned and REALLY wanted to have his party at Paige's Crossing this year. He invited friends and it was all scheduled. But the darn weather did not cooperate so we had to improvise and take the kids to play lazer tag at UltraZone instead. They had a GREAT time!!! It was a couple of the boys first time and I think they are hooked;) We returned home for a Dairy Queen ice cream cake...Liam's FAVORITE!!! The boys all LOVED it too! Several of them had seconds and one little boy had 3 pieces...bet he wasn't very hungry for his dinner;) Oops! Liam enjoyed all his gifts and got quite a bit of money...with which he chose to buy a gift for each of his siblings too. SO proud of him for being so generous! I think he enjoyed his birthday weekend. And on Monday, his actual birthday, Levi and I picked him up from school for lunch out. He chose to go back to the Great Wall for China food again;)

The boys...right before their first game;)

Actually reading a card;)

Opening presents...Levi put this one together for him;)

Sneaking a lick of his cake...

Liam with Red...

Hard to believe my little guy is 9 year old!!!

Last Track Meet and Awards:)

2011-05-25T10:31:00.001-07:00

Track season is over;( It went by SO quickly. Landan had a GREAT first year! He did very well and he REALLY enjoyed it. I did not get to attend the last meet, since it was my turn to take Levi and Lorelle to soccer but I did send my camera with Lance to take a few pictures:) Landan got some personal bests during this big meet...including a 16ft jump in long jump;)

I did get to attend the Track Awards Program a few days later. Landan received an envelope full of ribbons, that he earned throughout the season and he was also awarded the Mental Attitude Award! What a good boy:) SO proud of him!!!

Receiving his award...

Landan with the other Mental Attitude Award winners...this picture was to be in our local paper:)

Pictures from the last meet...

Landan and the other 4x100 relay boys...

SO focused...

Can't wait until next year!!!

Bahamas!!!

2011-05-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

On May 10th, my BFF Regina's Birthday, we headed south to the sunny, warm Bahamas for a few days. It was her 40th Birthday and we wanted to do something special to celebrate. We invited a few other girlfriends along but only Sheri ended up joining us;) We flew out of Ft. Wayne thru Atlanta and were sitting poolside by 2PM. We stayed harbor side on Paradise Island...at the Paradise Island Harbor Resort. It was a small but all-inclusive hotel. The pool area was decent but the beach was small and the rooms were in desperate need of a makeover (especially the bathroom). The hotel also had some electrical issues and the power was out several hours a day during the time we were there. The food was pretty good and most of the drinks were tasty;) It was so relaxing just to be away for a few days with NO schedule, cooking, cleaning, homework or any other activities. I really appreciated the break and time to be with my girlfriends. We had such a great time together. The most fun thing we did was took a Party Cat Snorkeling Cruise. It was a big catamaran that held about 50 people very comfortably. They took us out to private Rose Island where they cooked us a traditional bahamian lunch. We also snorkeled, swam in the gorgeous, clear, blue water and just relaxed. They served us plenty of Bahama Mamas and after about 4 hours of FUN in the SUN, we started our cruise back. We did shots, sang and danced our booties off on the way back to our hotel. It was a SUPER fun day!!! PARTY CAT!!! WOOOO!!!

View of the harbor from our room...

View of the pool area from our room...

The Party Cat...

Us...in the beautiful, blue ocean!!!

A rainbow over the bridge to Paradise Island...after a light sprinkle out by the pool:)

We took a walk to the oceanside beach one afternoon. It was really windy, with huge waves, but REALLY pretty!!!

Us...at the lobby bar waiting for the nightly entertainment and karaoke:)

Love you girls!!! Good times:)