Keeping the Faith

Sad Places

2011-03-10T13:34:00.000-08:00

Coming up on three years since Fay has been home with us, and it's rare these days that I find myself in a sad place. I'm often to busy with therapy, dance, baseball, homework, driving, etc. to be in a sad place. The last couple of days I have caught myself falling off the wagon (as my sister says). What, when and how will become of Fay. Her diagnosis is unknown and will forever be. Although I truly believe that malnutrition is the culprit of it all.

Every Tuesday and Thursday I make my 45 min drive to L.A. where Fay spends a few hours doing auditory and physical therapy. It's a place of miracles. It's also a place with severely, medically fragile children. 500 seizures a day for one child is not uncommon. Feeding tubes, orthotics, wheelchairs, doctors and medical equipment are a hot topic of conversation. It's also a place of HOPE, FAITH, LOVE and UNDERSTANDING. To often parents put on a happy face to mask the pain of their daily lives. Some parents are content and accepting of their situations. While some parents are struggling to grasp the reality that has become their lives. It is at this place that my spirits are lifted and more often than not for the wrong reasons. You see, my child is not like the others. She doesn't have seizures or a feeding tube. She progresses very nice, every day. She is a miracle and blessing, like all the children there.

Today, one of the mothers asked me, "What is wrong with your daughter, she looks fine." After I explained her situation, she continued on saying "She is going to be fine". My sister has always said that to me about Fay, and you know what, I truly believe it. So, I was able to get back on the wagon and avoid the sad place....Thank you to all my Napa Center moms and my sister.

With that being said, Fay is continuing to learn to walk. She is up to six steps on her own. She is also trying to talk, she tries to say more and go.

Fay can WALK

2010-12-02T13:32:00.001-08:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Fay like Pirate Booty

2010-10-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

It is often challenging to know what a non verbal child likes and dislikes. Raising Fay is all trial and error. I know that she likes the sound and feel of potato chip bags. How do i know this? Well she often goes into the pantry and pulls down the basket with the children's snacks. She reaches in and pulls out every bag of chips she finds. She then proceeds to crinkle the bags up either with her hands or her mouth. If she is lucky enough she will bust open a bag and eat it's contents.

Last night, while her siblings where enjoying there before bedtime snack, Fay crawls over to me in the kitchen and starts hitting me with a bag of pirate booty. Hmmmm does she wanna eat this? I mean she just started eating food a few weeks ago and everything is so new to her. So I sit down on the floor of the kitchen right next to her and ask: Do you want some pirate booty? Fay knows sign language, well actually she only knows one sign, that is the sign for MORE, which she will use for YES as well. So I ask her if she wants some pirate booty and faster than I can blink she gives me the sign. Pirate booty it is. So we sat on the couch and my daughter ate half a bag, I ate the other half.

So watch out for your booty, I mean Pirate booty, my daughter might beat you up for some.

2010-10-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hello blog land. It's been awhile since I have visited. As usual life in the Riggio household has been busy.

All the kids have started back at school, even Faith. It can be challenging to have all 4 kids home 24/7 for 3 months, so school is a nice break for ME. Paris has started 4th grade. She will be 10 this month and has a lot of changes going on physically, emotionally, socially and educationally. She is becoming a preteen and it totally freaks me out. Roc, well Roc is Roc. Baseball keeps him busy, which he loves. His passion for the sport blows my mind. He is now in 2nd grade and loves it. Rex, well Rex is trouble, always has been. He is in preschool and depending on the day, he isn't always happy about going and thinks he has a say so. Rex is my helper. He loves to cook. He says when he gets big like Mommy and Daddy he will cook for us. With that being said we signed him up for cooking class, which he calls kitchen class. He loves everything about it, especially his recipe book and apron. Faith started preschool at our districts special needs classroom. The first few weeks were rough. She goes 3 days a week and I had to join her the first few weeks until she felt comfortable with the environment and teachers. She is doing well now and her personality is beginning to shine.

Me, well I get a little me time, which I thought I'd spend going to the gym, but all I wanna do is stay home and eat junk..Decisions, decisions...

Everyday I am reminded of the miracles GOD as aloud me to witness and I feel sooooo blessed. I have 4 children that all love and hate (lol) each other so much. God has aloud me to witness my 3 bio children fall madly in love with our adopted child. They love and protect her like they do one another. It is so unconditional. It's funny when they say to me "Mommy are we going to tell Fay she is adopted". They don't see her as any different from them and they don't realize that her ethnicity will tell the story. It is a blessing. Faith is a miracle in her self. We often take so much for granite. Fay's needs have prevented her from doing things in a manner in which typical kids do. Watching her everyday is watching a MIRACLE. She has come so far in her 3 yrs of life. Over the last 2 months she has been progressing nicely. She can now pull her self to a standing position, and does it all day long. She also has started to eat none pureed foods, such as cereal bars and a PB and J sandwich. She doesn't like touching it so feeding does take sometime. Her progress is nothing short of a miracle. I cant imagine my life without all my amazing children. Motherhood has been my greatest gift ever.

Fay eating an oreo and Rex in his halloween mask

Rex in Hawaii

Roc enjoying some tubing in Hawaii

Paris in Hawaii
Fay on a field trip for school. Riding the train at a carnival
Fay standing up..okay so the pics upside down

post stealing, yet again

2010-06-23T07:44:00.001-07:00

Blue Rose
So every once in awhile as I am reading through my friends blogs I read something truly inspirational. Sometimes what I read are things my friends have wrote or are things they got from other people. Either way they are amazing and touch my heart.

Here is one of those stories.

Blue Rose

Having four visiting family members, the wife was very busy, so I
offered to go to the store for her to get some needed items, which included
light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags, detergent, and Clorox. So off I
went.

I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies, and headed for
the checkout counter, only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man
who appeared to be about sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I
patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was there. This was when he
waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy,
I'm over here."

It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged, and also startled as
he turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His
eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy, what's
your name?"

"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he responded
proudly. "Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but
my name is Steve."

"Steve, like Stevarino?" he asked.

"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"

"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she slowly came over
from the next aisle.. "You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be a good boy
and let the man pass by."

I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for several more
minutes about summer, bicycles, and school. I watched his brown eyes dance
with excitement because he was the center of someone's attention. He then
abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.

Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me for taking
the time to talk with her son. She told me that most people wouldn't even
look at him, much less talk to him. I told her that it was my pleasure and
then I said something I have no idea where it came from, other than by the
prompting of the Holy Spirit.

I told her that there are plenty of red, yellow, and pink roses in
God's Garden; however, "Blue Roses" are very rare and should be appreciated
for their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a Blue Rose and if
someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart and touch that
rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God.

She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she asked,
"Who are you?"

Without thinking I said, "Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion but I sure
love living in God's garden."

She reached out, squeezed my hand, and said, "God bless you!" and then
I had tears in my eyes.

May I suggest that the next time you see a BLUE ROSE, don't turn your
head and walk off. Take the time to smile and say Hello. Why? Because, by
the grace of GOD, this mother or father could be you. This could be your
child, grandchild, niece, or nephew. What a difference a moment can mean to
that person or their family.

From an old dandelion!

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the
rest to God.

"People will forget what you said, People will forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel."lue Rose

Craziness

2010-06-21T07:25:00.000-07:00

Life at our house has been crazy. I've been meaning to post for quit sometime, but the summer days are getting the best of me.

So let me back track. On May 23 my baby turned 3yrs old. WOW, where has the time gone. 3 was a big number for Fay, it meant lots of changes for her. We had her IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting with the school district. This meeting was to go over our goals for Fay as well as what the school district would be providing for her in terms of therapy. For the most part the meeting went well. After 2 1/2 hours of discussing your child's care and arguing over the amount of therapy provided I was broken. I know Fay will benefit greatly from school, but I am torn up about it. I will have to give up her care for 3 hrs a day 3 days a week to people I don't know. She is sooo tiny I worry about her safety. I also struggle with the fact that my baby is going to school. My last child. I can't imagine not having a child to care for. I am so saddened by this. Maybe it's time to have another child! Hmmmm.

Fay has been progressing nicely. She is crawling all over, started to pull herself up on furniture, and is very social. She has become quit vocal, although no words yet. Her lack of words are making her frustrated. I bought her an ipad in which she will eventually use it as a communication device. So far it is an unfamiliar toy so she isn't very interested. She has decided to forgo naps and it has become a challenge to get her to bed at night. She is experiencing separation anxiety. I can't leave the room without her freaking out. Emotionally she has become a 3 yr old, trapped in the body of a 1 yr old.

During our visit to the pediatrician for Fays 3 yr check up, we noticed she only gain 1lb in a year and nothing in length. We proceeded to do some testing on her thyroids and growth hormone. It ends up her growth hormone level is low so we will see an endocrinologist at the end of the month.

The rest of the crew has been really busy. Roc made the allstar team. Baseball is all consuming. He has a tournament every weekend and Jayme is the coach, so he is consumed as well. Paris has been busy with dance. She just had her Hip Hop dance recital. WOW, that girl has the moves. She will also be joining the HIP HOP dance competition team. Rex has been up to his usual antics. He is also becoming quit the swimmer. The kids are so exhausted by the end of each day that they pass out at night and sleep till 9 or 10 in the morning.

Meanwhile the month of June is birthday month in our family. We celebrated Jayme and Roc's birthday, as well as my moms, step dad, and a hand full of friends birthdays.

Our family has also grown in the last month. My brother-in-law's fiance officially moved to the U.S with her son. They have now become a family of 5. We are all so pleased to have them here.

Summer wouldn't be summer without a few vacations. Jayme and I are taking Paris, Roc and Rex to Hawaii in July. Then Jayme has planned a golf weekend with his buddies and I have a Vegas weekend with the girls. At some point I will be taking all the kids up to Santa Cruz to visit my sister-in-law and our ex-nanny. We end the summer with a family trip to bass lake, where we rent a house with 5 other families. fun fun fun fun.

We'll that's all for now folks. Have a wonderful summer.

Jayme's Birthday

watching tv

winning their 1st baseball tourney

playing dress-up, hee hee, blackmail

pool fun

Fay's Birthday

stolen post

2010-05-17T06:38:00.001-07:00

A SPECIAL MOTHER - By Erma Bombeck

Most women become mothers by accident, some by choice, a few by social pressures and a couple by habit. This year nearly 100,000 women will become mothers of handicapped children.

Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen? Somehow I visualize God hovering over earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As He observes, He instructs His angels to make notes in a giant ledger.

"Armstrong, Beth; son. Patron saint...give her Gerard. He's used to profanity."

"Forrest, Marjorie; daughter. Patron saint, Cecelia."

"Rutledge, Carrie; twins. Patron saint, Matthew."

Finally He passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child."

The angel is curious. "Why this one God? She's so happy."

"Exactly," smiles God, "Could I give a handicapped child to a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."

"But has she patience?" asks the angel.

"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wears off, she'll handle it. I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has her own world. She has to make her live in her world and that's not going to be easy."

"But, Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."

God smiles, "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect -she has just enough selfishness."

The angel gasps - "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"

God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a 'spoken word'". She will consider a 'step' ordinary. When her child says 'Momma' for the first time, she will be present at a miracle, and will know it! I will permit her to see clearly the things I see...ignorance, cruelty, prejudice....and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life, because she is doing My work as surely as if she is here by My side".

"And what about her Patron saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in mid-air.

God smiles, "A mirror will suffice."

I am so blessed!

Believe... Prayer Works!

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Where would we be right now.

2010-04-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

Where would she be right now. She could been all alone, hungry, crying, cold. She could be lying in a crib or on the floor so far gone from this world. She could be neglected or malnuorished, starving for food and love. She could be in pain and suffering. She could be abused or mistreated. She could be DEAD. And where would we be? We'd be just where we are. In a beautiful house, with food on the table, with a family to love us. We'd have an education, money,etc.. but,We would be void of all the possibilities. We wouldnt know what it would be like to open our hearts, we would have never given ourselves to the unknown.

I thank GOD that she is with us and we are with her.

Time flies when your having fun

2010-04-12T11:25:00.000-07:00

GOTCHA DAY.

Two years ago today Faith was placed in my arms forever. Little did I know how she would forever ROCK my world. My life has been all that much more blessed and fulfilled since she has entered it.

Two years ago, at 11 months old, my baby girl weighed 13lbs and couldnt hold her head up. Since then she has grown and developed leaps and bounds. She can now crawl, say mam and dada and is trying so hard to do many things. She has a long road ahead of her, but I couldnt be more proud.

THEN
My favorite picture from that day, my MOM and Faith

NOW

2010-04-11T20:44:00.000-07:00

Here's a little something I found (stole from another blogger)

Disability Beatitudes".

Blessed are you who take time to listen to defective speech, or you help us to know that if we persevere, we can be understood.

Blessed are you who walk with us in public places and ignore the stares of strangers, for in your companionship we find havens of relaxation.

Blessed are you that never bids you "hurry up" and more bless are you that do not snatch our tasks from our hands to do them for us, for often we need time rather than help.

Blessed are you who stand beside us as we enter new ventures, for our failures will be outweighed by times we surprise ourselves and you.

Blessed are you who ask for our help, for our greatest need is to be needed.

Blessed are you when by all these things you assure us that the thing that makes us individuals is not our peculiar muscles, nor our wounded nervous system, but is the God-given self that no infirmity can confine..

Blessed are those who pick thing up without being asked.

Blessed are those who understand that sometimes I am weak and not just lazy.

Blessed are those who forget my disability of the body and see the shape of my soul.

Blessed are those who see me as a whole person, unique and complete, and not as a "half" and one of God's mistakes.

Blessed are those who love me just as I am without wondering what I might have been like.

Blessed are my friends on whom I depend, for they are the substance and joy of my life!!!

Crawling?

2010-03-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

Watching Fay grow and develop is not like watching a "typical" children. Everything she does from picking up a toy to sitting up to crawling takes 6 months to a year. Walking may even take years. Fay goes to therapy everyday from an hour to 4 hours. She does Speech, Occupational, Physical Tomatis, Neurosuit and Equestrian therapy. She often gets frustrated, upset, tired, but more than not she is HAPPY. Soon she will have been home with us for 2 yrs. I think back to the day they handed her to me and then think about today. Watching Fay is watching a MIRACLE. GOD is so good.

Here is a video of Fay starting to crawl.

stealing posts

2010-02-27T07:32:00.000-08:00

I love stealing other peoples posts. Sometimes others manage to says things exactly how I would wish to say them, but I just don't know how. This is one of those my sister was reading a friends post, found this and posted it too her blog, then I stole it from my sisters blog.

Anyways enjoy

Aspiring for More!

I must admit that I am an Olympics junkie. There is something astounding about these athletes that have trained and sacrificed so much for one goal.......to be the best! I can't even imagine giving up friends, school , and even family to train as an elite athlete. Then you have their families........what have they given up to fuel the dreams of their children? Some have done without for so long......while others have worked two and three jobs to finance their young hopefuls.........It really is almost overwhelming.

However, I got to thinking tonight that we parents of Special Needs children really aren't much different. I have traveled great distances, spent weeks away from home, quit my job, spent endless hours researching treatment, hours of therapy, hours giving therapy, and heartbreaking times fighting for my son. Why, because I believe in him.....I believe.

We parents will probably never be featured on national television, and our children won't be gracing the pages of Sports Illustrated. Still, we press on....some of us trying to teach our children to walk, talk, eat, or learn to be human. Daily.....all around us these struggles continue. Our medals are not Gold or Silver, they are smiles, tears, and triumphs for things most parents take for granted.

I never realized that I am an Olympian. Not a sports figure.....but in spirit because I believe that with tremendous hard work and effort AND faith.......my son will have a future! I carry my torch daily with so many of my special friends with special children.

If you know one of us......give us a congratulatory hug......our journey is long and for some of us it will never end....but we believe and we have faith! All we ask for is a little encouragement......our finish line is often far away and we need to hear the cowbells and cheers to push us along the way!

2010-02-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

Ok, so one of my favorite bloggers posted this on their blog about big families and I had to steal it. It's funny and so true at the same time. Enjoy

Blog post by MckMama:

I know that bigger families sometimes boggle minds. If I had a penny for every time I was told, "You must be crazy! I'd go bonkers with so many kids; I can hardly handle the two I have!" I'd seriously buy Hawaii and just be done with it. But, it is my firm assertion that big families may actually be easier than smaller ones. I don't know, it's just a hunch.

But my hunch was strengthened when a blog reader named Kris sent me the link to a fabulous, clever, hysterical, oh-so-true article about big families. The following piece, written by Matthew Archibold for the National Catholic Register, was so amazingly spot on, that I just had to drop what I was doing and share it with you.

Enjoy!

Why big families are easier:

Patience. I never have to teach patience. My children know that I can’t drop everything for them if I have a baby in my arms.

Work Ethic. My children have learned to work because there are always chores to do in a small house packed with little messy lunatics. And they all learn quickly that sometimes they have to clean up a mess even though they didn’t make it.

Humility. My children have learned it’s not always their turn. They’ve accepted they can’t always get their way because other people have to get their way sometimes. They’ve learned that some children are better at certain things than they are.

Foreign language skills. You can learn a lot of Spanish by watching ten years of Dora the Explorer that you just can’t pick up in two. And now with the Diego spin off I’m practically fluent.

Laughter. The children have learned to laugh at the insane non sequiturs of younger siblings. They’ve learned that laughing just feels better when seven people are doing it along with you.

Competition. Do I really need to go into this? Everything is a competition in big families. The children compete over who reads faster, who drinks their milk faster, who gets to the bathroom first…etc. Everything is a competition and they’re all keeping score.

Balance. The floor of the front room of my home is a minefield of toys and childhood paraphernalia. Just walking through the room requires great skill and balance. I’m absolutely convinced my two year old will be a favorite for Gold on the balance beam in the 2016 Olympics. (She might have to lay off the cookies a little but I’ll deal with that later.)

Life isn’t fair. Sometimes you just give it to the baby because you want a little quiet. Not all the time. But sometimes.

Just say “No.” Being able to say “no” may be the most undervalued skill in this world. The need to be liked is pervasive. The need to be cool even more so. Having brothers and sisters teaches children to say “no” about 143 times a day. It’s a good skill.

Praying. They learn that nothing beats praying together as a family.

Nature/Nurture. Having many children has taught me that nature has a lot more to do with who my kids are than nurture. This is helpful, especially when your children misbehave you don’t have to feel bad about it. Just say “Stupid nature!!!” and blame your spouse’s genes.

Namecalling. You can occasionally call your child by the wrong name and still not be considered a terrible parent. They know who you mean just from your tone. Sometimes if you need something done you can call the wrong name and someone will still show up. That helps.

Spying. My children have learned that they can’t get away with anything. I have spies who look a lot like them who are willing to drop the dime on them for anything. Even at school I’ve got a child in just about every grade. If they do something I’ll hear. That keeps them nervous. And I like keeping my kids a little nervous.

Friendship. The children have many friends. They’ve got girly friends, crying friends, fun loving friends, consoling friends, and crazy friends. And they all have the same last name. And they’ll be there forever for each other. No matter what.

Love. I think my children have learned to love because there are others around them to love and who love them. I honestly can think of no better way to teach children to love than siblings.

Prayer can lead you to unexpected places.

2010-02-17T06:24:00.000-08:00

It's amazing where prayer will lead you.

I've prayed long and hard for the Lord to soften Jaymes heart so we can have more kids, and then I prayed for the Lord to guide us on how to go about a new adoption or having bio kids. However, the more I prayed for the latter, things started to become clear. It was an answer that I never expected.

I've wanted a handful of kids for a long time now. I'm supermom, I can handle it. Well I realized that I can't handle it. Not an easy thing to say. Therefore, I've made an executive family decision last night. We are done adding to our family for now. That's right, no more kids, or dogs, or guinea pigs. I'm blessed to have the four children that I do.

Thank you everyone for your support.

Now on to something new. Faith started Hippo therapy(equestrian therapy) last week. She did an incredible job. She rode the horse for thirty minutes or so. She smiled here and there and cried here and there, but ultimately survived it. She also finished up her three week intensive therapy in L.A.. She did a phenomenal job. She did so good that I'm driving down once or twice a week for some traditional therapy. Here are some pics.

2010-02-12T17:13:00.000-08:00

So I have been struggling with a big decision. Maybe you can help me.

As most of you know my desire to have more kids is GREAT. My husbands desire for more kids not so great. However, he as given me the go ahead.

Our situation is this. We have 3 biological children and 1 adopted child. After our third child my husband got a vasectomy. Unfortunately my desire for more kids was to powerful for his vasectomy, so we adopted. When we adopted our daughter from Guatemala, I knew we were making the right decision. I never had a doubt in my mind that adopting from Guatemala was the right choice for us. I feel so blessed everyday to have had the opportunity to adopt our daughter.

Now that we have decide to have another child, I am not so clear on how to go about it. As of now we are leaning towards adopting from Ethiopia. But I am just not feeling 100% sure about it. Other options are Foster/Adopt, Domestic Adoption, vasectomy reversal, IVF, Artificial Insemination, etc..

Each of the above options has there negative and positive.

I pray, pray, pray about this and hope to get a clearer answer soon. Please dont mis interpret this. I am not complaining. It's a GREAT problem to have.

So what does everyone think. What would you do right now in your life if you were faced with the same issue?

From the mouth of a 3 year old.

2010-02-10T11:39:00.000-08:00

So I'm dropping the kiddos off at school and this is the conversation I had with my son Rex,3.

Rex: "Mommy, Mommy, look at me".
Me: "I can't, I'm driving".
Rex: "Your not driving, your texting".

Last night my husband and I are trying to put the boys to bed and Rex,3 is giving Roc,7 a hard time. My husband brings Rex into the family room and he is mad.

Rex: "I'm going to beat Roc's ass".

Rex then runs back into the bedroom and says to Roc.

Rex: "You better watch it our I'm going to beat your ass".

I admit it, he gets it all from me.....OHHHHHH MAN

Paris and Faith

2010-02-03T10:22:00.000-08:00

I have a sister, a twin sister. We have a bond that goes above and beyond any bond I've ever had with another human being. She is my best friend, my soul mate. Our relationship is indescribable. And that is what I want for my daughters.

When my daughter Paris was 7 yrs old we adopted our youngest child, Faith from Guatemala. She was 1 yrs old when she arrived home with us. Although there was a bit of an age difference, I was so excited for our oldest to have a sister of her own. I wanted her to have that special relationship with her new sister that I have with mine. However, when we brought our daughter home from Guatemala, we soon learned that she had special needs, needs that were both mental and physical. I was afraid that that relationship and bond that I wanted our

daughters to have would never happen. It tore me up.

This morning I realized that I was completely wrong. I was reading a blog post that completely changed my attitude towards my daughters relationship. Check it out

Last night Paris was playing with Faith and Faith was just cracking up. As I look back this morning and after reading the blog post I realized that my girls have an incredible bond, a bond that only GOD could have created. When they look at one another there eyes are filled with so much love and trust. I feel SOOOOOO blessed. I am glad that my eyes finally opened up to the relationship that my girls have.

2010-01-22T15:27:00.000-08:00

Fay Fay at therapy. She is working on her jumping skills trying to strengthen her legs.

I feel so BLESSED

2010-01-21T10:52:00.000-08:00

I wish everyone in the world could feel the same way I do.

CONTENTMENT

LOVED

BLESSED

HOPEFUL

ENCOURAGED

Times like these I think back to the days were the Lord opened my heart. The day the Lord choose me to be SAVED. My entire life changed that day. Just thinking about it makes me want to cry out in Joy. I feel so lucky.

Faith update:

I'm back in Los Angeles for Fay's 3 week 5 days a week, 3 hours a day of intensive Neurosuit therapy. It's the slow session and it's very quite here. Fay is doing great. They are working on her standing and crawling. I usually try not to get my hopes up during these session. If anything, these sessions make her so much stronger, however, my hopes are up this time. Fay is so close to crawling on all four. That will be a glorious day. Prayers are always welcomed.

So it's been raining cats and dogs here in L.A. I'm hoping it will subside long enough for me to take the kiddos to Disneyland on Monday. My older kiddos need some good Mommy time, hopefully Disneyland will accomplish that.

PEACE OUT

I got a blog award

2010-01-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

The Sunshine Award is awarded to bloggers whose positivity and creativity inspires others in the blogworld. I, in turn, am supposed to pass this award on to 10 bloggers who inspire me. Here goes…

The 30 Day Journey........For Hope Is about an incredible family who's love for the Lord and his children can see them through anything. They are adoption advocates for those with special needs, especially Down Syndrome. You can't help but fall in love with them

Whatever it takes, No matter what This blog is near and dear to my heart. It is about my Nephew who suffered a near drowning three years ago and his new journey through life

The Love Shack This is one creative Mama. From her adoption of her daughter to her passion for photography, her words and life will inspire you

The life of Lou Lou Now this woman can sew as well as turn antiques/junk into between furniture. But that's not the half of it. She is raising 4 amazing children, 2 of whom are adopted from Guatemala

Familia Giancola Heres a family that will capture your heart. They have been working effortlessly to bring there daughter home from Guatemala

Danielle's Fight This blog is about an amazing young woman who is documenting her fight against cancer. Talk about inspirational

Okay so I'm suppose to do ten, but I'm currently at therapy with my daughter and can concentrate with her screaming. So I'll have to stop here. Pop on over to those blogs, they are amazing

Three Years Ago Our Lives Changed Forever

2010-01-17T07:05:00.000-08:00

Three years ago the unthinkable happened. My nephew suffered an accident that would change our lives forever. Three years ago my nephew died and was brought back to us. However, when the Lord brought him back he was no longer the same child. He is now severely disabled. He is trapped in a a body that let's him do very little. We had no idea how our lives would change FOREVER.

Prior to my nephews accident, life was pretty easy. My siblings and I were blessed with amazing parents and an incredible loving and supportive extended family. We never went without. We had our share of ups and downs like most, but nothing that was life altering. Until that fateful day three years ago.

Through my nephews accident we learned our purpose in life. When I say OUR purpose, I include myself. Let me try and explain.

My sister and I are identical twins. Our lives mimicked each others in so many ways, from the car we drove to the amount of children we had and so on. My sister had a daughter and two boys like myself. I knew by adopting our fourth daughter that something was different with my sister and I. Keep in mind that our adoption was after my nephews accident. It wasn't until I brought our daughter home from Guatemala that I new what our connection was. Like my sister I now had a child that was also disabled.

Through my nephews accident and the strength, courage and dedication my sister has. I have been able to help my daughter in so many amazing ways. She has introduced me to therapies that have literally changed my daughters life and will continue to change her life.

I wish you could all met my nephew. He is incredible. If you'd like to met him, then hop over to my sister blog. Fighting for Joey

I feel very blessed to have Joey and Fay in my life. The Lord has opened my eyes to things that I never imagined where out there. Although life is now a bit more challenging, I am so grateful for the challenge.

2010-01-12T06:53:00.000-08:00

New look, new year, new post....

So far this year is looking crazy busy. My husband is expanding his business, which means lots of work and stress for him. I'm sensing we will have a couple of lonely dinners without him this year. Baseball season is about to start for my hubby and son. Oh man talk about all consuming. By the time baseball season is over I'm exhausted. However, my son and hubby love it, so I can't complain to much. The other kiddos are doing their things, dance class for Paris and trouble making for Rex. And then there's my little Fay Fay.

Fay is getting ready to start a 3 week intensive therapy program. I'm feeling like this is going to be a tough 3 weeks for us both. She no long likes going to therapy, well she never liked it, but she understands what happens and she hates it. So there is lots of tantruming on her part. After her 3 week intensive program she starts hippo therapy, which is very similar to equestrian therapy except she has a physical therapist by her side at all times. Meanwhile, Fay is progressing nicely. she can military crawl the length of our house and is sooooo soooo close to crawling on all fours. She has been working really hard on trying to pull her self up. She gets on high knees then gets stuck. Her fine motor skills have improved greatly. She can clap her hands and bang two toys together. However her speech has regressed a little, but her understanding has improved. Fay has been working really hard and moving right along. I am so very proud of her.

My hubby and I have been discussing adoption alot lately. We are currently in the research process but hope to add another child to our family in the next year or too.

Me, well I'm just trucking along and loving every minute of it.

New Look

2010-01-11T22:15:00.000-08:00

So whatcha think? Like the new look?

Test Post

2010-01-11T17:35:00.001-08:00

How did you ring in the New Year

2010-01-01T08:04:00.001-08:00

The best way I can..hanging at the house with my hubby, my children, good friends, fun food and lots of laughing. We had a house full last night. 12 adults, 16 kids and lots of pizza. We watched sports, played the Wii, destroyed a pinata and laughed harder than we have in a long time. It was a great way to celebrate the New Year.

So what did you do?

Here's some pics that made last night fun

Got a Passion

2009-12-28T19:05:00.000-08:00

I read lots of amazing blogs of men, women and entire families who have dedicated there lives to the Lord. They represent him through there passions, whether it be adoption, providing for the poor, nurturing others back to health, etc.. One family blog is dedicated to adoption advocacy of special needs kids. Another blog is a doctors journey through pediatrics. One blog a husband speaks of his wife's CF and daughters pre mature birth, other blogs focus on fundraising for the needy. What these blogs have in common is there love for the Lord and there desires to service him in all aspects of their lives.

I WANT THAT...I WANT THE PASSION...

My life is selfish in comparison. I help when I can, I donate when I want, but I do it when I want, not always when the LORD wants me too. Opportunities often arise and I make excuse not to become apart of them.

My life has been extremely blessed. I have four amazing child and will be adopting another in the future. I have a wonderful husband, beautiful house, etc...but what I want is a passion to serve the LORD hole heartly. I pray the LORD will guide me to a passion that is solely about him.

Well, I'll let you know what the outcome is, someday

Christmas 2009

2009-12-26T08:36:00.000-08:00

No better day to realize how thankful I am than on Christmas morning. The day our Lord and Savior was born. His birth and life has saved me and opened my heart to things that I could never have imagined possible.

This Christmas was one of my favorites. We had my husbands half siblings as well as my in-laws, brother-in-law, niece and nephew as well as many other amazing family and friends over for Christmas Eve and Christmas day. My mantle had 10 stockings. It was beautiful. The kids woke up and sang Happy Birthday to Jesus, they went mad crazy over there presents, which consisted of Bean bag chairs, Wii games, mini kitchen, legos galore and the list goes on. We ate and ate and ate.

But what made it extra special was the difference between this Christmas and last. Fay's first Christmas home was a bit tough. She couldn't tolerate the excitement. The noise that the wrapping paper made as it was being ripped from the presents over stimulated Fay's senses. She had spent most of the day in her crib where it was quiet. This year she must have sensed the excitement, but didn't turn away from it. She was as excited and happy as all the other kiddos. She sat in the middle of the chaos with her stocking and new drum and enjoyed every minute the day had to offer. It was truly a beautiful thing. All my kiddos enjoying the day our Savior was born.

Grandma reading the Christmas story

Beer Can Chicken-Christmas Day Dinner

passed out on the bean bag chair, covered in sleeping bags and pillow

Year End

2009-12-06T18:54:00.000-08:00

The end of 2009 is approaching fast. I just love the end of the year, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, but man am I tired. The end of each year also makes me a bit nervous and anxious for the following year.

This year has been pretty good. We celebrated Faith's 1st year home as well as her 2nd Birthday. My oldest son became a baseball fanatic, a dream come true for my husband. My 3 year old has decided to skip terrible 2's and save it all for terrible 3's, and my eldest daughter is just growing up. She is becoming a beautiful, smart, independent young girl. I am so very proud of her. My husband is working on expanding his business, while making time for all of us at home. Me, well I am just going through the motions and enjoying every moment of it.

This upcoming year is already looking real busy and it hasn't even started yet. New business ventures, new Nanny, thoughts more therapy and big changes for Fay, adoptions, etc.. Speaking of Fay, she is a rockstar. Since August she has been moving full speed ahead. In August she started sitting up on her own, in October she starting military crawling and along with all that her fine motor skills are improving as well as her speech.

My hubby and I have also decided to adopt again. Yes people I know I'm crazy. That would mean 5 kids, yes you heard me 5 kids at the Riggio Ranch. However the adoption process is not one to take lightly too. We have some big decisions to make about what route to go, Domestic, International or Foster/Adopt, what age as well as what nationality. Please pray that we find the right answers.

None-the-less we are moving full speed ahead and looking for a little down time over the holiday season before the new year starts.

Trying to take a family Picture

2009-11-22T12:50:00.000-08:00

I wish I could state what it means to be a mother, especially an adoptive mother, in terms that could truley express how I feel. I wish you could all understand what adoption means to me. But those words don't often come easy. Shari at Encountering Ella has said it so perfectly. Please check out her post at Encountering Ella

ADOPTION

2009-11-04T11:24:00.003-08:00

I want to adopt again. Most who know me are not surprised by this. Believe it or not my husband is entertaining the idea. I would love to adopt a sibling group between the ages of 3 and 8. If it was solely up to me we'd be bring our children home in just under two years from now. With that being said, where do I begin. I've tossed around the idea of doing a domestic adoption, but international adoption keeps tugging on my heart. When we adopted from Guatemala the decision to go there was so easy, but now that Guatemala is closed, what country is best for us.

I would love everyone input.

I'm still here, are you still reading?

2009-11-02T06:20:00.000-08:00

Life at the Riggio home is busy and totally amazing.

First I'll start by telling you about my Guatemalan Princess. Fay will be 2 1/2 yrs old this month. Boy does time fly bye. I have to admit that her first year home was difficult and not at all what I expected. Her needs are more that just her being a little delayed. Fay may have to live with us forever. Although her progress is astounding, she is far from a "typical" children. I am not sure where she will plateau with her progress, but right now she is moving full speed ahead.

Fay just completed another 3 week Neurosuit therapy program and Tomatis program. She progressed more in the last six months than she has in the last year and a half. Fay can now get into a sitting position on her own, military crawl and bear more wight on her legs. Cognitively she has come leaps and bonds. She signs MORE in sign language, has tantrums as a 2 yr old would and is the happiest, most loving child ever. That doesn't even begin to explain all she can do and understand now. Every inch of progress is celebrated. I am sooo proud of her.

Right before Fay turns 3 we will have to get her a diagnosis in order to continue our services and to get more services. Because we don't know her families history or circumstances at birth I will take the meaning behind whatever label they give her very lightly. But you should know that they are leaning towards a few different things, such as cerebral palsy and mental retardation. It's kinda bizarre how the system works, but the more and worst off the label, then the more services she will qualify for. I know that a diagnosis will not change who she is. Just know that my mind is at peace with all this and everyday I feel more and more blessed.

GOD has given me 4 beautiful, loving children. THANK YOU

Now don't think I'm done with 4 kids. My heart has always wanted more. I've been thinking a lot about it lately, trying to figure out what would be the best option for our family. I've been nervous about adopting again. Faith's condition was unexpected. But I do know that adoption is the right option for us and whomever God chooses for us will be a perfect fit for our family. If I had my choice, I would adopt a sibling group from Ethiopia, but that may take a lot of convincing the hubby.

However, we have added a new member to the family. His name is Dodger and he is a 12 week old English Bulldog. That makes 4 kids and 4 dogs.

Meanwhile we have all been busy around here. Halloween is my favorite holiday, ok, one of my favorite holidays, partially because it's my birthday. This year we had a bash. An adult only Halloween bash that took place the weekend before Halloween. It was so much fun and such a success that I can't wait to do it again next year. Turning 22 again and again has been a lot of fun.

I've also been on a little tattoo kick for the last two years. My new addition is the "Star of David and a Cross" on my wrist. Growing up I was raised Jewish, however, in the last 6 years I have accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. So this tattoo means a lot.

Well enough rambling...check out my pics..

Fay learning to walk
and crawl

Dodger
my tattoo

Long Overdue

2009-09-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

As time goes by my energy to keep blogging is decreasing. As a family of 6 we are constantly busy. Between school, baseball, dance, therapy and just trying to keep up with the household can be exhausting.

Faith is doing great. She is currently doing an intensive therapy program at the Napa Center. She has 3 hours of Neurosuit therapy and an hour and a half of Tomatis therapy. Her physical and mental strength has improved ten fold. However, it definitely takes a toll on me. We leave at 9:00am and don't get home until 5:00pm. It's like a full time job except I don't get paid. But well worth the results. As Faith is quickly approaching 3 I am now contending with so many decision. Fay is going to need a diagnosis when she is 3 in order to get further assistant from the state. I am researching all I can in order to make the right decisions for her.

The rest of the kiddos are doing good. We spent a few days at the lake after Labor Day and had a great time. School is in full swing and the kids are averaging straight A's in all their classes. My am so proud of them and so blessed that we get to enjoy some good quality family time together.

So here is what everyone has been waiting for the pics.

Therapy is a tough job but someone has to do it.

Fay and I love her therapist Jessica...Check out Jessicas face.

Chillin at the Lake

Holding on for dear life.. Paris and Roc

News Flash

2009-08-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

So I am sitting on my couch making a guest list for our annual Halloween party. Faith is chillin on the floor. She was laying on her tummy looking out the sliding glass door. I was completely enthralled with my guest list when I hear her giggle. So I look over and she is SITTING UP. This is the first time she has EVER gotten into a sitting position by herself. I am completely shocked.

You want progress..Well there you go..

The World We Live In

2009-08-24T07:36:00.000-07:00

I stole this poem from my sisters blog, you should really stop by and check it out-Fighting Joey My sister and I both have children with special needs

The World We Live In

The world we live in, not your world, but my world. The world I am talking about where special needs kids and disabled people are normal.

The world where no one is looked at with a crooked smile or squinted eyes or with a look on there face of sympathy.

A world where you are not explaining to everyone the difficulties of your life or trying to make other people understand and feel better about your situation.

The world where only we can make jokes about our lives and it be funny to only us, were you might take offense.

The world where feeding tubes, drooling, falling, slumping over, changing diapers, special diets, wheelchairs and walkers, are normal and not even looked at twice.

Where helping another is just second nature. Where the smallest physical or cognitive improvement is like winning the lottery. Where you take nothing for granted. Where you appreciate your abilities more and more each day.

A world where your disability is not a bad thing.

In this world you don't compare what one can do and the other can't. You celebrate what everyone is capable of doing all the time.

It is not a bad world or a world of unhappiness.

Our world is not worse than your world.

Our world is just different then your world and unless you have lived in both worlds you would NEVER understand. You can only imagine.

The world where I pray you would NEVER have to be a part of. The World I Live In.

Lemonade Stand and tattoos

2009-08-09T21:11:00.000-07:00

We were so proud of Paris and her dedication to the lemonade stand. She was waving down cars. All the money that was raised is going to Mayan Families to sponsor a child for school.

An hour into it, Roc was done..

Washable marker tattoos. Check out our thug.
This is Rex's pin-up girl tattoo.

Overdue

2009-08-08T08:54:00.000-07:00

I'm overdue for a post.. I know I know. I wish I could be one of those bloggers that blog about fun things all the time.. like the Pineapple Princess or like Mck Mama does, but I'm to busy blogging about my rugrats and myself (ok, I really don't have anything interesting to say)... So heres an update.

Busy Busy Busy.. same old story. Baseball is over. Thank God I can only handle so much of the sport. Two vacations down, 1 to go. Lake Havasu was a blast. It was me, Paris, Roc, Rex, our RV and a boat. We had a great time floating in the water, wakeboarding and tubing. The kids jumped off cliffs, played Uno and applied numerous fake tattoos. My sister and brother-in-law as well as a handful of there friends were there also.

Our 2nd vacation was to Yosemite. The whole family went including my in-laws. For me, not so much fun. We stayed just outside Yosemite, which meant an hour drive each day into a very crowded Yosemite Valley. We did see a cub bear on one of our drives. But with 5 kids ( my niece came along) fighting and yelling, asking "Are we there yet", was a bit overwhelming. We did spend one great day at Rainbow Pools a few miles away. Where we cliff dived and swam just below a waterfall.

On Monday my husband and I (no kids) are leaving for Mexico to celebrate our 10 yr anniversary. Can't wait.

All the kiddos are doing good. Nothing new to report. So now what you've all been waiting for, some pics.

Lake Havasu

Yosemite

Roasting Marshmellows

What time is it? It's Simi Time. Updated

2009-07-17T20:26:00.000-07:00

Update: THE BOYS WON THEIR GAME. NOW OFF TO THE SEMI FINALS TOMORROW THEN ON TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME.

Have you ever prayed for something, that you knew you probably shouldn't pray about, but wanted something so badly to happen that you hoped prayer would make a difference. Even if the prayer was partly for the right reason and partly for the wrong reasons.

My sons All Star team is playing in the World Series. All the teams are amazing. We never know from one game to the next who's going to win. We do know that if our boys play there A game the chances of them winning is really good. The issue is, the boys are 6 and 7 years old and nobody can expect them to play a perfect game all the time. Entering this weeks tournament our team was guaranteed 3 games and we had to win all three games to advance to the semi-finals, then on to the championship game. We've won 2 games and play the 3rd tomorrow. The part that sucks is if we win, another team loses, and all these boys have worked so hard to get to where they are.

Which leads me to my prayer. I've been praying that the boys will win all 3 games and make it to Sunday and I pray that the boys win the whole tournament. Our team has had some ups and downs lately, details I can not go into. I want them to win, but as a Mother I really want them to win, selfish, yes. So I am asking that you send the boys a prayer. Please pray that no matter the outcome, the boys have an amazing time and whether they win or lose they walk away proud of their accomplishments and know that they are champions in the eyes of so many.

What up Peeps

2009-07-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

The blogging world has been a bit slow for me. Why you ask? Because our lives have been consumed with baseball. No not the Dodgers or the Angels, but with my sons 6 yr old Simi Youth Allstar team. You heard me, 6 year olds. For those who know me, know that I DON'T LIKE baseball, or basketball, football, or golf. Let me rephrase that, I DON'T LIKE SPORTS. Over the years I've been able to tolerate it more an more. I mean it is my son after all who is kicking A&* on the baseball field, so how can I not like watching him. Well I do enjoy watching my sons games. I don't enjoy baseball every single day for 6 weeks and I haven't even begun to mention the drama that's unfolded between the parents...OHHHH BOY....We should have a show called "Baseball Wives of Simi Valley". I guarantee you'd guys all watch it, if your into those kinda programs..We'll baseball ends on Saturday with the World Series and we then we are off on vacation.. Yeahhhh vacation..A little Lake Havasu, a little Yosemite, and then some BIG O' Mexico...Raise your hand if you need me to have a cocktail while sunbathing on the beaches of Mexico. I'm sure between my husband and I we can handle all the requests. Did I mention that there will be no children traveling with us to Mexico, just a couple of young newlyweds celebrating their 10 year anniversary.

Well enough about me. The kiddos are all doing well. We have taken turns passing around the cold, but it hasn't gotten to bad. Fay and the hubby have yet to get it. Ohh did I say Fay, well let me tel you about Fay.. She is incredible, awesome, amazing,happy, very very happy, kicking baby girl butt. People ask me about her progress all the time and she is making amazing progress, but not amazing progress as one without a child who has special needs sees it. She is not crawling or walking or even talking like one would hope for, but she sure is trying and getting stronger every day. I always thought during the adoption process that the Lord was trying to teach me patience and that the reason he gave Fay to us is because I didn't learn it, well I'm learning it now. Fay as well as all my children are the lights of my life. I am so blessed. Which leads me to the Pineapple Princess, a fellow blogger whom while on Vacation asked me to be a guest blogger on her blog. Go check out my post on The Love Shack blog. Well that's all for now folks. I'll check back in before vacation and let you all know how we (my sons team) did in the World Series. 6 year old baseball ROCKS!!!!

Photography Class

2009-07-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

Well I have a new obsession. I'm taking a photography class and our homework assignment was to take a portrait. Not as easy as I thought it would be. Here's a few pics I've taken, tell me what you think. The best part is I finally bought a new lens, yeah me! Check it out.

2009-06-27T08:21:00.001-07:00

Paris and her friend Alexa with there new summer hair dos

Kids make the word go round

2009-06-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been so long since I've posted. Like usual we are a very busy household.

The kids finished school with a BANG. Roc graduated from kindergarten and had his 7th birthday. Paris got numerous classroom awards as well as the Christian Character award. Jayme and I are so proud of the two of them.

Now that summer has started, Paris, Roc and Rex are all going to camp two days a week while I take Fay to therapy. Rex is taking swim lessons, Paris will be starting dance class and cheerleading, and Roc has made the allstar team for baseball, while Fay is taking it easy with the therapy and spending a lot of time in the pool. I'll be taking a photography class with my friend Stacy. So keep your eye out for some rockin photos.

Roc's baseball has been all consuming. He practices 4 days a week with a tournament every weekend until the middle of July. His team won this weekends tournament. Roc caught a fly ball in left field to win the game. The coach gave him the game ball which all the coaches signed. It was really exciting.

Last but not least we had Faith's re-adoption day. Her name has been legally changed and we should see a new birth certificate in the near future. It feels so great to be done with all of the adoption stuff.

The funny thing is, is that I haven't even mentioned our vacations yet. Believe it or not we have also planned a trip to Lake Havasu, Yosemite and Mexico. I love summer.

So now what you've all been waiting for, some pics:

Re-adoption

Roc and Jaymes' Birthday party

Roc's Graduation

Some of Paris awards

Fay taking a dip in the pool

At the baseball field

FFF-OUT

2009-06-05T09:21:00.000-07:00

Out in the backyard

Out in a bouncy

Out on a glass bottom boat in Catalina

Out on a train in Disneyland eating a churro

Faith's Birthday Fiesta

2009-05-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

WOW, what a party. The day started out great and ended great. I don't think Faith had any clue as to what was going on. Yet she did so very well with everyone over. I really wanted to honor Faith's heritage and since I have no clue how to make Guatemalan food, a friend of ours, Chef Joey, came over and cooked up a feast. The food was awesome. The kids swam, bounced, beat up a pinata (that was almost impossible to open) and enjoyed the warm weather. Faith had little interest in the cake, but she did touch it and let her grandma feed her some frosting. She got a lot of great presents, toys and clothes.

I just wanted to thank all my family and friends for making this day special for me, oops, I mean Faith.

Enjoy the pictures

Make a Smilebox slideshow

My Big Party

2009-05-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Did I say MY big party, oops, I meant FAITH'S big party. When Faith came home a year ago I was planning a big welcome home birthday party, however, things didn't go as planned. Faith was in no condition to tolerate a party. This year she is much more tolerable of a party. It's like the party I always wanted but could never have, oops, I did it again. I mean the party Faith has always wanted but could never have. So we will celebrate Faith's 2nd birthday the best way I now how, good food by chef Joey, a pinata, a jumpy and all our family and friends. So the irony of the situation is that 2 out of 7 family members are sick and I woke up with a very scratchy throat. I will be fighting this one for sure. The party will go on this Saturday, so stay tuned for some pics.

Mother's Day and Therapy Pictures

2009-05-10T20:55:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day has come and gone, yet a Mother's job is never done. We spent the day at my brothers with extended family and had a very nice brunch. The kids spent hours jumping in the bouncy while the Moms sipped on mimosas and the Dads waited on us hands and feet. OK, all is true except the Dad part. The rest of the afternoon was spent at home with my in-laws, relaxing and enjoying one another's company. It was a beautiful day.

Faith's intensive therapy has come to an end for now. She did an amazing job. She is not yet walking or crawling, but she can bare weight on her legs from 30 seconds to 3 minutes with assistance. Physically and Cognitively she is becoming stronger. I am so very proud of her. Next up, IEP meetings and dealing with all the political BS that comes with obtaining more therapy on a weekly basis. Your thoughts, prayers and support is always needed and greatly appreciated. Thank you

Dancing, dancing, dancing....Not

2009-04-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

I love these sequence of pictures. It looks like she is dancing.

Actually she is at therapy practicing her standing. She has been working really hard. Up until four months ago she couldn't even bare weight on her legs. Now she can stand with assistance for 30+ seconds.

Intense

2009-04-28T16:12:00.000-07:00

We've had a busy couple of weeks. Faith is back to doing her intensive therapy. It last three weeks, 5 days a week, 4 hours a day. It's pretty draining for both of us. She cries most of the time, but powers through it. I sit around and do nothing, but the 1 1/2 hour drive there and back sure can take a toll on a person. We are on the second week. She is doing soooo good. Getting stronger by the moment. The other kiddos are hanging in there. These three week sessions are tough for everybody.

Faith's birthday is fast approaching and I'm planning a Guatemalan feast. Not an easy task.

I soon as I have some picks to post I will.

Forever Family Day-UPDATED

2009-04-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

Check out our pics from Forever Family Day

I still can't believe it. One year ago today, my mother, sister and daughter entered the U.S. with baby Faith in tow. She became a U.S. citizen and apart of a family that loves her so very much. As we arrived home from the airport, her Daddy, brothers, and Grandparents were all waiting to see and met her. It was our Forever Family Day. I can now say that Faith has been with us longer than she was living in Guatemala. So tonight we will celebrate. Check back tomorrow for pictures.

One Year Ago Today

2009-04-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

Faith was placed in my arms forever. What a glorious day. I was so filled with mixed emotions. Here I was overjoyed to finally have my daughter in my arms forever, yet completely floored by how delayed she was. I just didn't know what to make of anything. I can not believe it's been a year. Faith has grown and thrived so much in this last year. She is my Guatemalan Princess and I love her so much and feel so blessed to have her. Check out the Then and Now pics.

Then

Now

He Has Risen

2009-04-12T12:21:00.000-07:00

Easter, probably the greatest day ever. My 6 yr old son ran through the house this morning telling everyone, "He has Risen, he has risen, he has risen, I have spoke the Gospel". He's my favorite kid. J/K. It was awesome. Today has been a great day in so many ways. First, celebrating the Lord is always amazing. Second, we got to celebrate Faith's first Easter home and as an entire family. Third, we had a wonderful Brunch and spent the afternoon basking in the warm California sun. We did not however go to church. I know, I know who misses Easter service. The Lord is in our hearts and minds always. So we celebrated the Lord at home, as an entire family. Not at church separated by the daycare and sanctuary. So now for the picture parade.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Bearing weight on her Legs.

2009-04-10T20:04:00.001-07:00

FFF

2009-04-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

Our family is so blessed to celebrate in the traditions of Passover as well as Easter. Her are a few pics of Passover dinner.

MY NEW FAVORITE FAMILY PIC

I hope everyone has a fabulous time celebrating in the Lord this Easter. God Bless

2009-04-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

One year ago today I anxiously sat by the computer, hitting refresh every 5 minute, waiting for that all important email telling me when my daughter would be coming home. One year ago today I got that email. Our adoption process was coming to an end. The emotions I was feeling that day are rushing back to me. I can't even right this post without getting all chocked up. We were PINK, PINK, PINK. What an amazing day. Little did I know what the Lord had in store for us. It's been a journey, an incredible journey and by no means is it over.

For those who are still waiting for your children, the day will come.

LET'S PLAY

ROW ROW ROW YOUR BOAT

OH NO, THE BOAT CAPSIZED

What's up Bloggin Peeps

2009-04-02T12:24:00.000-07:00

I think I've lost some blogging followers due to my lack of blogging. None-the-less I shall push forward. Faith has been a total rockstar lately.. She has made continuous progress since last year. Although progress is slow and grueling at times, she is pushing forward. She can now pick up and grab things, just about anything, although there is a little adjust period when a new toy is introduced. She rolls all over and is now pivoting her body to the direction of an item she is seeking. She is also trying to get up on her hands and knees. This has just started happening and she is not totally there yet, although it is the beginning of something new. Hopefully a year from now or even before that I'll be posting about her crawling all over. She is bearing more weight on her legs, not a lot, but more than ever before. We have been battling with the school district on getting her speech therapy. That's been a pain. Faith is currently doing 2/3 hours of therapy 5 days a week. It may sound like a lot, but she does much better when she gets intensive therapy. We are hoping to start Neurosuit therapy again at the end of the month. Which is for 3 weeks, 5 days a week for 4 hours. Once summer comes I hope to slow things down a bit. I am soooooooo very proud of Faith. I tear up just thinking how far she has come since arriving home with us. Which is coming up on a year. I can't wait to celebrate all her crowning achievements.

The other kiddos are doing well. Rex has entered terrible 3's. Are you kidding me, what a pain in the ass he has become. He's driving me nuts. Luckily for all of us he goes to school 4 days a week, which gives me a break.

Paris is in softball and doing good. She wouldn't swing the bat against the girl pitchers until we bribed her with money. Now shes swinging and hitting. She's sucking all the money out of us.

Roc is in baseball and is one of the star players on the team. I guess he has to be with a name like Roc.

Jayme is working really, really hard. Which rarely seems to ease up. He is an amazing husband, father, and provider for our family. Love you Jaymbabe.

As for myself, just doing what I love most, taking care of my beautiful children and playing on the computer, he he.

Check out the pic:
Faith had ten minutes left of therapy and decided she couldn't wait any longer to take a nap, so she fell asleep.

Celebrate

2009-03-29T16:50:00.000-07:00

I can't beleive how time flies. Faith has been home for almost a year. We will be celebrating our forever family day as well as Faiths b-day. So heres what I need from you: Recipes, Guatemalan Recipes. I wanna have a very special, amazing feast. I want people to know that this special day means more than just her birthday or forever family day. It represents progress, strength, courage, understanding, love and family. Faith is a fighter and although she may never remember the events of the day, she will feel the love. OK, so maybe I want the day for her. So I need your help.

Recipes
Recipes
Recipes

img src="http://i261.photobucket.com/albums/ii68/jaimeemartinez/Blog%20Designs/Suzanne/siggie2copy.png">

A day in the life.....

2009-03-20T17:02:00.000-07:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Blogstipation

2009-03-13T15:19:00.000-07:00

......as Stacy would put it. I've been busy busy busy.

So heres my weekly schedule for a household of 7.

Monday-two seperate drop offs at two seperate schools, by 9:00
-therapy in LA. from 10:00-12:00
-school pick up @ 12:30
-naps from 1:00-3:00, if lucky
-school pick up @ 2:50
-homework after school
-softball game @ 5:30
-dinner, bathes and bed before 8:00

Tuesday-school drop offs by 9:00
-therapy @ home 9:00-10:00, then again 11:00-12:00
-school pick up by 12:30
-naps from 1:00-3:00 if lucky
-school pick up @ 2:50
-homework
-tutoring @ 4;30-5:30
-baseball practice from 5:30-6:30

So on and so on. Now mix in doctor appts., taking Poppy around town, working out, swim lessons, field trips, trips to the market, breakfast, lunch and dinners, tantrums, potty training, colds, church,etc... The list goes on and on.

I am no longer a stay at home mom, but a taxi driver and personal assistant to my family. I don't even have time to wipe my a...

I have a fun video to post and will someday, just gotta find time. Any suggestions. Keep in mind that I already have a Nanny to help out. I do find sometime to read your blogs and facebook, so know that I haven't forgotten any of you.

BLOGSTIPATION,

Pray Pray Pray

2009-03-06T06:56:00.000-08:00

I ask that you pray, pray, pray for those who have lost, who are suffering and who are fighting.

This morning Cody went to be with the Lord. Please pray for strength and comfort for his family.

MishMosh of stuff.

2009-03-01T13:49:00.000-08:00

The camera is back up and working. Today it's been a beautiful sunny and 80 degrees here in California, so I took the children to the park. The sunshine and breeze made for a perfect afternoon. Things have been busy around the Ranch. Paris has started softball and is doing quite well. Roc has started baseball, in which Jayme is coaching. The team isn't very good, grant it they are 5/6 yr olds. It's been time consuming, but I think Jayme is enjoying it. Faith is doing well. Her progress is slow, but progress none-the-less. Rex has hit terrible 3's and when I say terrible, it's definitely an understatement. Meanwhile we've added a couple of new members to the family. You'll be sure to spot them in the photos below. As well as some photos from our day at the park.

Roc playing soccer

Enjoying the shade

Sun Angels

There Guinea pigs

Abigail and Black Beauty, or maybe it's guinea pig 1 and 2. Not really sure of their names.

FFF-Fake out

2009-02-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

Here are my munchkins chillin in bed. I'd like to say they sleep peaceful in bed like this all night, okay that might be pushing it. I'd even like to say that they laid like this for more than 5 minutes with out pushing and shoving and yelling at one another, but that would be a lie. Nothing but a FAKE OUT.

Let's be Honest

2009-02-18T10:49:00.000-08:00

So I'm sitting on the couch with the laptop in lap, wishing my camera worked so I could post some much needed pictures. Faith has caught the plague and is currently energized by the dose of tylenol I gave her, rolling all over the floor, in sensory over load mode. Poppy is chillin in the recliner with the TV blaring because he's deaf, talking to me about God knows what, and all I can think about is how and when will I ever make it back to the gym, meanwhile my ass is indented into the couch. I wonder if I lowered the volume on the TV, if Faith would stop wigging out, but then I'd have to have more meaningless conversation with Poppy about GOD KNOW WHAT.

None-the-less, I've been tagged by Kerri

Kerri gave me the "Honest Blogger" Award.

The rules are thus:
1) Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design.
2) Show the 7 winners names and links on your blog, and leave a comment informing them that they were prized with “Honest Scrap.” Well, there’s no prize, but they can keep the nifty icon.
3) List at least 10 honest things about yourself.

So, here's my list of honest bloggers...

Stacy

Angela

Yesenia

Nora

Tamara

Kelly

Lindsey

1. I'm lazy (no secret), but highly motivated when it's all about me
2. I want more KIDS. (once again, no secret)
3. At the end of the day, when it' s time for bed, I wanna go to bed.
4. I have a hard time dealing with introverted, reserved people, because I am none of those things.
5. I'm afraid of rejection, have been since my ex-boyfriend in my early twenties.
6. Want more children but afraid of having another child with special needs.
7. I'm tired. Maybe it's from having a full house or maybe I'm just getting older.
8. Afraid of being old an unattractive
9. Wish I had a girls night out.
10. Spend my time blogging and on facebook to have some alone time, even though I'm not alone.

2009-02-13T17:21:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say Congratulations to the Becking family on their referral of their little girl. Check out their journey. How can any of us forget the moment we heard about our children for the first time, whether adopted or biological. Makes me want another, actually I've always wanted another. Maybe some day.

And Happy Valentines Day to all my friends and family in blogging world.

Have you ever been called a HERO....

2009-02-09T09:43:00.001-08:00

...a Godsend, a life saver, a saint. If so, do believe it. Was it your intentions or something you just falled upon.

I was watching a 60 minute interview with the flight crew who landed the plane in the Hudson river. The captain made a comment about the days following the crash, although all 155 passengers survived, he couldn't help but think what more he could of done. What more he could of done! The man just landed a plane in the Hudson river, sparring the lives of a 155 passengers, what more could he have done! He is a hero in the eyes of so many, but I'd bet that he has never and will never look at himself as being a hero. The captain had a job to do and he did it very, very well.

Which leads me to adoption. How many of you have heard, "You saved that child's life", "You are amazing", "You are a Hero". How many of you believe that statement to be true.

So here's my confession. I adopted Faith for pure selfish reasons. I already had three beautiful, healthy biological child. My husband had been neutered and I wanted another child. I had been interested in adoption for quite some time and thought it would be easier on my body. I didn't want to get fat again, and then spends years trying to get skinny again. I wanted a baby, but didn't want to give my body to pregnancy. I asked for a healthy baby girl and the lord gave me just that. She is healthy and beautiful, but not with out many special needs. So now, when I introduce Faith to people and tell them where she came from and about her needs, they often say to me: "You saved her life, you are her Hero". However, I don't believe any of those things. I often feel ashamed. I wanted a baby and the lord gave me a baby, in more ways than you know. And like my biological children, she is just as much apart of me as they are. Her needs have been, surprising, overwhelming and humbling. I do for her like I would do for my other children, husband, mother, father, friends, etc.. It by no means makes me any more of a Hero.

So please, don't call me a hero, just call me human.

And for many reasons I still want more kids, but my rational has changed. There are so many children out there in need of a home. So many children who don't have the pleasure of growing up with a mother or father. I want to give those kids what my kids have.

Maybe some of you out there that read this blog, could put your selfishness aside and give a child a home. It is not easy, I can attest to that, but so very worth it.

Prayers needed

2009-02-06T18:55:00.001-08:00

I had a fun post to share with everyone when I came across and update about Abby Riggs whom is SUFFERING from leukimia.
I ask that whatever your beliefs, religion, etc.. please pray for Abby right now, she really needs it. Check out Abbys familys blog: .....where laughter lives.

New Blog Design

2009-02-02T10:27:00.001-08:00

So, do you like? Yet another new blog design.

I seems that our blog changes with the season, but it is ever so consistent with our changing life. Jaimee did an amazing job, Check out her site, Centsibly Chic designs. She is top notch.

Faith has finished with her intensive therapy and is doing quit well. I know for sure now that the Lord is teaching me patience. It's just the learning that doesn't come easy. She is beautiful, healthy and happy and that's what's most important.

Rex on the other hand has been giving Jayme and I a difficult time. The 3 weeks spent with Faith in LA and losing our Nanny to a mission trip in Peru hasn't been easy for him. Either that or terrible twos is becoming terrible threes.

Paris and Roc are doing well. They are doing well in school and seem to enjoy it. They both just finished a 8 week Spanish course. Although not fluent, yet, he he, they know Spanish way better than I do and I took Spanish 1 and 2 in High School. Little minds absorb sooooo much. Paris has started softball. My little diva is pretty good. Roc will be starting baseball with Jayme as his coach. No pressure though.

Jayme is getting geared up for a weekend in Pebble Beach with his buddies from out of town. The stress of going to Pebble Beach is almost unbearable. he he.

I have no pics to post. I've been a little behind on taking any new photos. But now that the weather here in Southern Cali is 80 degrees, some park pics will be in the making.

Serious Life Magazine

2009-02-01T17:04:00.000-08:00

I wanted you to know about this publication I’m a part of called Serious Life Magazine. They just published the February issue today, and I am in their Featured Blog Directory. It’s a very high quality magazine… you’ll really like it.

The magazine includes a lot of great content from bloggers you’ll appreciate, as well as great features, photos and other content. The magazine is owned and published by a family who have seven kids, three adopted and one who has Leukemia (www.riggsfamilyblog.com). The magazine gives away a bunch of ads to charities and ministries. Besides great articles on interesting people, there is a lot about family, adoption, personal finance, spiritual life, humor… all sorts of “life” topics.

Again, the subscription is free, and I know you’ll enjoy the magazine, so take a minute to check it out and sign up to get future issues. www.seriouslifemagazine.com

2009-01-26T09:28:00.000-08:00

If this doesn't rip at your heart strings, then I don't know what will. We more often than not get caught up in the things we have and the things we want, forgetting about the things that are needed. I hope this video will inspire everyone to give a little more this year.

Where there is a beginning, there is an end.

2009-01-24T16:10:00.000-08:00

This last few weeks have made an amazing impact on so many lives. First and foremost our new President. What an incredible feat. I am so glad to be apart of history. Although I didn't vote for Obama, I am super excited for his Presidency and the future of the United States. President Obama has brought hope for so many people, in so many ways.

Which leads me to Faith.

Faith has just completed her 3 week 6 hour a day intensive therapy program. The program was intense and grueling for both of us. The 1 1/2 drive to and from LA will take a toll on anybody. Then theres listening to your daughter cry non stop for hours on end. And if you think it was bad for me I can't even begin to tell you how Faith felt. But as tough as it was, each day got better and better and Faith got stronger and stronger. She can now bear weight on her legs and is learning to get into a sitting position on her own. Cognitively she has made huge strides. I can't explain it or even pinpoint the exacts, but she looks amazing. This process also taught me patience, strength, and love. It introduced me to people that really care about your child and truly want to make an impact on their lives.

This morning, Poppy (aka Grandpa) said to my husband, "I don't know what they did to Faith down there, but whatever they did she looks amazing. I know the therapy is expensive, but you've gotta find away to get her back there. Sell everything you've got if you have to, just get her back there." Poppy and Faith share a love like no other.

Then this morning I went to a funeral for a friends father. I never met the father and felt a little odd going to a funeral of a person I never met, but what an amazing experience. He was incredible man and loved by so many. So it got me thinking what do you say about loved ones when they pass? What will loved ones say about you? Will you out live everyone of your childhood friends, so that no mention of your childhood will be remember at the funeral? Will the day be a celebration or a day of mourning? Will you be with the lord in heaven or not?

Is the LORD your beginning and your end. I sure hope so.!

FFF-EYES

2009-01-16T09:19:00.001-08:00

These eyes will forever capture my heart.

Faith is kicking BUTT

2009-01-14T13:36:00.000-08:00

That's right folks, Faith is a Guatemalan @%$ kicker. I wouldn't mess with her. This round of therapy is just what she needed to give her a little extra push. Check out some more therapy pics below.

Who wants to join her future Rock band

Learning to use her legs. I don't think she knew she had legs before this.

Joey needs HELP

2009-01-12T10:58:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have never visited my sisters blog I encourage to do so. My sisters 3 yr old son suffers from brain damage. She has spent thousands of dollars in therapy trying to help his quality of life. Her next goal is to take him to China to have stem cell therapy. It is a very costly trip. I know that our economy is in a major rut and to ask you all for donations is a bit risky. I ask that you consider it and if not please make others aware of Joeys need. Check out FIGHTING JOEY

2009-01-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

Faith's first week of intensive therapy is complete and she did an awesome job.

As her mother, paying a million dollars for such an intense therapy, I have high HOPES. I'm afraid. I'm afraid that my hopes are TOOOOOO high. You see, when you have a special needs child all you want as a parent is for him/her to be normal. Unfortunately, NORMAL as we see it is not an option. Special needs children are very normal,"THEIR" normal and I'm learning to come to accept and love Faiths normal.

I love my daughter with all my heart, her quirkiness and all. But, I would love for her to be mobile on her own. I want her to sit up on her own, crawl and walk, on her own, and I want it now. My sister told me that her process of growth and development will take patience. I proceeded to tell her that I don't want patience, I want a miraculous recovery. She said "Patience now, miraculous recovery later". And you now what, she couldn't be more right. So I'll be praying for patience.

Some of Faiths weekly accomplishments. Prior to this last week Faith hated when you touched her head. You couldn't comb it, rub it or put a brush in her hair without her freaking out. Now I can do all that and she doesn't make a peep. It is so awesome that I can touch my daughter in a lovingly, motherly way. She is also beginning to bear some weight on her legs and is learning how to get into a sitting position on her home.

One week down and two to go.

I need to give a shout out to Loulou creations for the wonderful clothes she has made for Faith. We love them. Check out Faith in her outfits.

Thank you to all my friends, family and blogger buddies for you continuous prayers and support.

A day in the life of THERAPY

2009-01-08T20:00:00.000-08:00

Tomatis therapy

Learning to stand

Wearing her suit (hence NEURO SUIT)

Sand Bagged
Don't let looks fool you, she cries 75% of the time.

I woke before the sun

2009-01-07T09:43:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning before the sun rose, before the busyness of the day began, even before the birds began to chirp. I rustled around the house preparing kids lunches, packing up the car, organizing for what lied ahead. You see, yesterday was the beginning of something new, and today was just a continuation of that. I was preparing for a pretty tough day. A day filled with much crying, exhaustion and amazing growth. All of my preparations is for my beautiful Faith.

I started Faith on a 6 hour a day, 5 days a week, for 3 weeks, intensive therapy program. She is doing Neuro suit therapy and Tomatis (listening therapy). She hates to be touched and manipulated, and these therapies consist of all that. She cries for hours on end and as much as I want to swept her up in my arms and comfort her, I know that what she is going through is doing her body and mind wonders.

Meanwhile, on the home front, Jayme is waking with the kids in the morning and taking them to school. Our amazing nanny is taking the afternoon shift and helping out until the evening. I arrive home around 3:00 and am pretty wiped out.

I ask that you pray for Faith on her new journey and send prayers to my husband and children as these therapies will take time away from them.

Pictures to follow in a few days

FFF-Best/Favorite Photo of 2008

2009-01-02T07:53:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite photos of the year. Faith was just beginning to sit on her own and when I looked through the camera I saw her looking back for the first time. This picture marked the beginning of many first for Faith.

Christmas has come and gone, but the spirit is still lingering.

2008-12-29T15:08:00.000-08:00

I love the holiday season, but often I feel like it comes and goes in a flash. We spend so much time cooking for Thanksgiving, then take 5 minutes to eat and an hour to clean up. All that work for a 5 minute meal, (5 minutes, because I'm so damn hungry I scarf it down). Then there's Christmas. It takes us a week to decorate and a week to undecorate, months of shopping, and Christmas comes and goes in a day. Don't you think the birth of Christ should be celebrated all year long. I love having a Christmas tree, with it's pretty lights and home-made ornament. Since that has become a symbol of Christmas, the birth of our SAVIOR, we should keep the tree up all year long. OK, sounds good by the hubby would never go for it. Then there's Hanukkah, i mean really, that's more like it. 8 days, candle lighting each night and then a present. It's just not over in a blink of an eye.

None-the-less, the holidays were a success. The kids enjoyed all their gifts and the time spent with the family. I marveled in the joy of having Faith home for Christmas, although sick and fussy, she loved her new toys.

Now I will get to the picture parade, enjoy....

A little Christmas morning entertainment for your viewing pleasure

2008-12-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

Paris and Rex with their new microphones

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Merry Christmas To All And To All A Goodnight.

2008-12-24T19:57:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve is always such an exciting night. The kids are hyped up on sugar, the Grandparents come bearing the first of many Christmas gifts, excitement is running rapid through the house and our family is all together celebrating the birth of our Savior. Doesn't get better than that.

Here are a few pictures leading up to tonight.

Our family of seven from left to right, Faith, Rex, Roc, Paris, Suzanne, Jayme and Poppy

Faith's First Christmas...Home, trying on her Santa hat

Decorating the tree

Christmas Village obsession

Christmas Eve and the kids and their cousins in there new pajamas

2008-12-18T21:47:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I've been kinda out of the blogging mood. With the holidays upon us I've been overwhelmed trying to get Christmas gifts for the entire family, pack for our trip to Denver tommorrow and trying to stay sane. However, for all those who know me, know I'm far from sane. I promise a more thorough post when we return on Tuesday.

Our Budding Musician

2008-12-12T19:29:00.000-08:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Is It Wrong to Steal

2008-12-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I guess it depends what your stealing. I stole this video from Dave and Lana's blog, which you should all check out. I watched the video numerous times, it is amazing and hopefully will get you all thinking.

Upside Down from Pace Hartfield on Vimeo.

Prayers

2008-12-08T10:20:00.000-08:00

I ask that everyone please keep this family in your prayers this holiday season. They were in the process of adopting their daughter Josi, from Guatemala, when she was killed in a home invasion. The Azhderian Family

What has your two year old done today?

2008-12-04T13:00:00.000-08:00

Mine decided it would be fun to get all muddy right after i got him dressed and ready for school. After school and with no nap, he decided he should knock over two flower vases, pooped on my white chair (what dumbass has white chairs with four kids, well, I couldn't resist) and climb into the washer machine. I know he accomplished more, but I can't remember, or am trying to forget.

Uhhhh Ohhhhh

Don't let the innocent napping boy fool you

A Masterpiece in the making

2008-11-30T10:28:00.000-08:00

Christmas is upon us and nothing like a gingerbread house to get the festivities started. Over the next few weeks the decorations will go up. Last year we spent Christmas with the Grandparent and extended family in Big Bear, although we had a great time, we were in the mist of the adoption process and not even sure if Faith would ever come home. This year all my children are where they are suppose to be, HOME. So I am really excited for Christmas this year. I'll be posting pictures as the decorations go up. Meanwhile, enjoy the gingerbread house pictures.

Happy Thanksgiving and a Picture Parade

2008-11-26T21:54:00.001-08:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Random Thoughts

2008-11-25T20:04:00.000-08:00

A year ago, this week, my husband and I were preparing to meet our fourth child, for the first time, in Guatemala. I'd like to say that I remember it like yesterday, but quit honestly, I don't. I remember being excited and nervous. Would she like us, would we like her, would it be hard to leave her behind not knowing when we'd see her again. A year ago seems like forever ago. Jayme and I had no idea at that time how much she was going to change our lives, forever.

I remember being a kid dreaming up what my future would be like. It couldn't be anything less than perfect because nothing else existed in my head. For those who knew me, knew I was never having kids, more or less getting married. I thought I was destined to be a socialite in Europe, traveling all over, partying like I would be 21 forever. When did I wake up from that dream. Every time I try and make a plan the exact opposite occurs, and probably for the better. OK, OK, so I never had the greatest plans to begin with.

It's amazing to me that it takes a holiday like Thanksgiving or Christmas to really think about all the things that we are thankful for, all the things that have impacted our lives and about all the people that we love so dearly. I often wonder why the Lord has blessed me the way he has. I have an incredible husband and am so thankful for all he does for me, the children, and all those he cares about. I'm thankful for my beautiful children, although they often drive me crazy, I couldn't imagine my life without them. I am also so very thankful for my family and Friends who love, care and support me on a daily basis. I am thankful for all my bloggers friend who continue to support, love and pray for us Riggio's.

My mind has been on a roller coaster this last year. First the adoption process, then bringing our daughter home and learning of her special needs, and then theres today. Today Jayme and I met with some therapist at a clinic that my nephew Joey goes to. The clinic was amazing and very different from where Faith attends therapy now. I've been frustrated with Faiths therapy and progress. Don't get me wrong, I am so thankful and excited about the progress she has made over the last seven months, however, I do feel that therapy, lately, has been going slow. I've also been trying to get her speech therapy and can't (it's a long story and would seriously bore most of you so I will refrain from getting into it). We met with several different therapist that deal with "alternative" therapies. We met with two gentlemen from Australian that put together an intensive home program that consists of 4-6 hours of therapy a day, as well as signed Faith up for Neuro suit therapy and Tomatis listening therapy. The Neuro suit and Tomatis therapy is a 3 week 6 hour a day, intensive program. I know it sounds like a lot, but I truly believe that Faith can and will benefit from these programs. We won't be starting until the first of January and I am very excited. The only downfall is that they are all very expensive therapies, luckily her progress, well-being and happiness is worth every penny. Today was a bit of a reality check for Jayme and I. We are realizing that Faith journey will not be a short one. The road will be long, but well worth the journey.

Thank you all for letting me share my life with you. Your love and support keep me going each and everyday. I read so many blogs and please excuse me if I haven't commented lately, I wanted to thank you all for your continuous support. And to my family and friends, LOVE YOU

Update

2008-11-13T14:01:00.000-08:00

I spoke with the Geneticist today and all of Faith's testing came back negative. The Dr. said that he has no further recommendations and we should follow up in 6 months, and I'm completely OK with that.

I forget about, with each kid we have, that period of adjustment. With Faith it seemed that the adjustment period lasted longer than usual. I'm not sure if it's because she was adopted or if it's her special needs, maybe both. I finally feel that period has passed. I feel very content and happy with the new structure of our family. I no longer concern myself with what is causing Faiths delays, rather I've accepted her as she is and look forward to watching her grow. I feel like supermom, I can conquer the world and anything that it throws at me.

Paris ad Roc are doing well. They have been busy with school, soccer, krav maga and Spanish class. Rex is 2yrs old, enough said, and Faith is progressing everyday. Her next goal is to earn to crawl. I ask that you pray for her to achieve that goal. Jaymes been doing well. He is still exercising and watching his eating, although challenging at times, he is powering through it.

I have an amazing family and although chaotic to most I love every minute of it.

We have a new member of our family

2008-11-12T16:48:00.000-08:00

As if we didn't have enough going on, we got a puppy. His name is Rudy and he is a Goldendoodle. My Dad and stepmother run a Golden Retreiver rescue and one of the rescue dogs gave birth to a litter of Goldendoodles. We are all excited to have him as a part of the family. Well, Jayme may beg to differ.

First photos as a Family of six

2008-11-09T09:55:00.001-08:00

These photos are from our Celebrating Adoption Photo Shoot. They are our first photos as a family of six. Celebrating Adoption is a group of photographers that offer a special package for adoptive families. We got our sitting fee for free and 20free proofs. Of course, all the pictures turned out so amazing that you can't help wanting to buy them all. Our photographer was awesome and lives right here in our hometown. We will definitely be using her again in the future. Below is just a small glimpse of some of our pics.

My Favorite Picture

Favorite Family Foto

2008-11-07T10:06:00.001-08:00

These are my favorite family fotos. Unfortunately, the only ones we have of all six of us was taken during our Celebrating Adoption Photo shoot, and I don't have pics to share. So these are my second favorites. Hope you enjoy.

Happy Halloween

2008-11-02T20:20:00.000-08:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday, because it's my Birthday. This year I turned 35. Where have the years gone. I had a great birthday this year. I spent the morning visiting with Stacy and Isabella. Thanks for the card and balloons, Stacy. Isabella is so beautiful and is an official toddler. She is walking all over. Check out the pics. Faith and Isabella are going to be life long friends.

Isabella

Isabella and Faith

We spent Halloween night at a Harvest Festival getting face paintings and jumping in a bouncing. We then went home, celebrated my Birthday with cake and then took the kids out trick or treating. Faith dressed as a Pink Poodle, Paris was Wonder Woman, Roc was some sorta Ninja and Rex was Batman. Some of our cousins also joined us for the festivities.

Every year I joke around about turning 22, again. Well after the kids went to bed and the babysitter arrived Jayme and I went out to have some drinks with friends. I was so hungover on Saturday that it was ridiculous. I realized that I can't drink like i was 22, because the recovery is a lot harder. Saturday, Jayme and I shipped the kids off to there Grandparents and drove up to Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort in Avila Beach, where I got the best Hot Stone massage EVER and slept for 12 hours. It was very relaxing and a much needed getaway.

Watch

2008-10-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

I've been sitting at my computer trying to think about how I should right this post. I have all these great thoughts and analogies that I want to express, but I just can't seem to get it out.

As I was driving today thinking back to how my life has turned out, I wonder, was it all in GODS plan. Did I ever have control over it. I have four amazing children and I would love to have more. People who know my situation often say "Four kids and you want more. Your husband wanted two, for his sanity, STOP". So I wonder, my heart tells me one thing and his another. Do we have a choice. I mean doesn't GOD already have a plan for our lives. Whether it's four kids or ten!

I do know one thing, GOD just doesn't hand things out and says "live happily ever after". What am I to learn from my life, from my husband, children, etc...

Which leads me to Faith. GOD gave me a special needs child. I didn't want a special needs child nor asked for one. But that's not my choice. So as I'm driving in the car today, lost in my thoughts, I kept on asking myself, why me? Just about everyone I know who adopted a child, got a "normal" child, so why not us. I new the answer was in front of me, but I couldn't figure it out. What did GOD want me to learn from all this. I kept on hearing that little voice saying WATCH. Watch very carefully. WAS GOD TALKING TO ME!

Through Faith I've learned many things, things I never wanted to learn about. Like PT, OT, ST, SID, Hyptonia, Myopathy, Metabolic disorder, etc... I've learned that we spend a great deal of time looking at the big picture and sweating the small stuff.

I've watch my three older children grow, hit there milestones when they were suppose too, walk, talk, jump, hop, skip. Faith has yet to accomplish these milestones. I always thought that the down side of adoption was that I'd miss her first year, miss her first steps or fist words. Be carefully of what you ask for. So I sit and watch Faith, I watch her shake her head back and forth freaking out because she is on Sensory overloaded, I watch her roll all over the floor wondering why she isn't crawling or walking. Meanwhile, I hear a voice yelling at me WATCH, WATCH, WATCH.

So I came home from my sons soccer practice yesterday and in the mist of chaos, my Nanny wants to show me a video of Faith, so I stop and WATCHED. Check it out

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Did you see what she did. She pick up that bib, what 7/8 times. Intentionally, purposely grab it, picked it up, played with it. Believe it or not that is a huge milestone for Faith. For 17 months, that child has never grabbed a thing, she's never held anything in her hand, she's never wrapped her hand around my finger or pulled my hair or throw a toy. Until yesterday.

So now, now I watch all the little stuff, all the stuff that means something. I no longer worry when she is going to do something, because she is doing something. She is growing and thriving each and everyday. I know that GOD doesn't just want me to watch Faith, I know that he wants me to watch and learn from all my child.

So right now, this very moment, I raise the LORD up and praise him for giving me the gift to WATCH and LEARN.

Excuse me if this was all a bunch of rabbling and really doesn't make much sense, but it is all very clear to me.

Genetic Testing

2008-10-28T16:54:00.000-07:00

Quick update:

I heard from Cedar Sinai today and they got the results of one of the tests that were taken. The test was called a Microarray, it tested around a 1000 chromosomes to see if any had multiplied, split, etc.. The results came back negative.

Not sure how I feel about it yet. I mean it's good to know that all her chromosomes are in check, however, it also means that I don't yet know what is causing Faith's delays.

As soon as the remainder of the test results come in I will let everyone know the findings.

Picture Parade

2008-10-27T20:08:00.001-07:00

Happy 8th Birthday Paris.

2008-10-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

My first baby is 8 years old today. Boy does time fly. Paris is growing to be a strong, independent, outgoing, sassy girl, and so beautiful.

We love you so very much, Princess and hope you have a wonderful Birthday.

Geneticist

2008-10-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

I don't even know where to begin. Jayme, Faith and I left the house this morning at about 11:30am, headed down to Cedar Sinai Medical Center. Luckily we hit very little traffic and made it to our 1:00 appointment in perfect timing. They wasted no time getting us into a room, measuring and weighing Faith. Faith lost a few ounces, which I thought was a little odd, but the doctors didn't seem concerned. We were then moved to a different room where another Dr. spent about a half hour asking questions about Faiths history, what little we knew, and our assumptions about her foster care and birth mother, her physical and cognitive delays, her hyptonia and Sensory Processing Disorder.

She left the room and came back moments later with Dr. G. He proceeded to examine her, which she hated and screamed bloody murder when he even looked at her. After about 20 minutes of blood hurdling screams, Faith fell asleep on my shoulder.

The next hour was spent discussing what may or may not be wrong with her.

Words like:

Myopathy

Metabolic Disorder

Chromosomes

Array test

Fragile X

Autism

Prader Willis

MRI

Rhett Syndrome

etc, etc...

Dr. G. is a world renowned Dr. who specializes in Genetic cranial disorders amongst other genetic issues. He's seen many kids with Hyptonia, Sensory Processing Disorder and Developmental Delays, however, he stated that he has never seen a child like Faith that will not grasp anything with her hands. He, like us was totally perplexed.

She finally woke up and he got to see the happy side of Faith. Examined her a little further, which she didn't mind, and then arranged for some blood work. The lab took 6/7 vials of blood, once again our precious daughter screamed as we held her down, but calmed as soon as I picked her up. Glad that parts over.

Dr. G is testing her for some very specific disorders at first. He is testing her for 3/4 disorders that would cause hyptonia, although he feels she has no other systems that pertain to those disorders. He is also testing about a 1000 different chromosomes to see if there is any discrepancies. He believes that there is a 10/15% chance that any of those tests will be positive and a 50% chance that we may not ever get a diagnosis. Should the test come back negative then we will see him again in 6 months and do some further testing.

We finally left Cedar Sinai at about 4:00 and spent 2 hours in traffic trying to get home. It was a long day.

I am so very proud of Faith. She was a trooper.

This may very well be a process with no end in sight, but i know doing it will give me the peace of mind that I never gave up on my children.

Clippees

2008-10-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

So I'm obsessed. Those of you that know me know that I'm always obsessed with something.

Do to Faith's very full head of hair, I get the joy of clipping it back. So I'm obsessed with buying these clips that cost anywhere from $1 to $2.50, so I thought I'd make my own.

Well they aren't very hard to make, but not as easy as I thought. Getting that ribbon glued to the alligator clip just so, takes lots of practice and some patience.

Here's a few pics of my first clippee. Yeahhh Me.

Testing

2008-10-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Testing, testing, 1, 2, testing, testing.

This is a test from the LORD. I think the Lord is testing me, I do hope I pass.

In the last week, especially in the last 24 hrs, we've experienced colds, eye infections, ants, ants, ants and lice, once again. On top of the fact that the week isn't over yet. Friday, Faith sees the Geneticist and Poppy goes in for an Angiogram. Then there's Grandparents day at school, I'm PMSing and have a headache. Did I mention that three out of the four kiddies have lice and are all home from school today because of it.

We went to church on Sunday and although the sermon is fairly vague in my memory I do believe the message was about "Drawing Near" to the lord, not just with words but with actions. Draw Near, Draw Near, Draw Near, keeps radiating through my mind. How one accomplishes such a feat, I am trying to figure out. With that said, I think the Lord is testing my PATIENCE. None-the-less, I think I'm doing really well. Ok, the headache is getting worse, but not intolerable.

This is by no means a pity post. This is simply my LIFE and I'm enjoying every minute of it.

Here's a TOAST to you all.

Such Cuteness Needs to be Acknowledged

2008-10-12T15:21:00.000-07:00

This is what happens.....

when you take a nap

My boys, hamming it up

She's gorgeous even when she wakes up

GET READY, for some Faith cuteness

I wanted to Thank everyone for there thoughts and prayers. No longer in a funk.

Love to you all.

"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain.".

2008-10-09T09:27:00.001-07:00

I wish I could dance in the rain, except all I'm doing is treading water , trying to stay afloat. Everything is moving so fast. The storm is here and I can't see the end in sight. I just want to gather the rain in a bucket and through it up in the air, but the wind keeps on blowing me over.

The lord has blessed me with so many amazing, wonderful things, but I can't seem to get a grasp of it. I have so many different feelings about Faith. I love her so very, very much and want to give her the best life possible. She has come so far since she has been home, but I can't seem to focus on those great feats. I'm stuck focusing on all the things she can't do.

Paris, Roc, and Rex have been a handful. I can't seem to find time to go to the gym and instead have been eating junk all day. It's hotter than hell outside and I can't seem to stay cool. Then theres soccer, practices three days a week and Saturday games. I'm tired and have so much to do for Paris birthday, but don't have the energy to do them.

All Right, so I'm in a total FUNK.

Here are some pics to make this post a bit more positive in nature.

Future Bikini Model

Enjoying the lake

Paris and Roc showing Faith and Rex how to use the computer

The picture says it all.

Playing her drum

Bonding with teddy

Making a Fort

Yo Bro, we can sleep in the kitchen!

Paris showing Faith how to send an email