Have a Safe and Happy Halloween.

My shirt says: "Daddy is under my spell", so true and I know it...

The snake costume we had for her got the big thumbs down, it actually scared her a bit so we went with Halloween themed clothing instead.

Some afternoon fun.

Man Shower

Lily helping Daddy open her gi at the Man Shower tonight.

Her white belt signed by Sensei Higashi.

Dale's Karate friends threw him a surprise "Man Shower" this evening. I tried to help trick him a bit at dinner time by saying some of my co-workers were coming by around 7 p.m. so when the back door opened at 7 I was able to say: "Oh, that must be the girls." When in fact it was the boys and girls and food, beer and wonderful gifts for Lily. It was wonderful they were able to truly surprise him tonight. Thank you so much. Lily received a karate gi, gift cards and a cute Christmas ornament. The gi is embroidered with her name and the belt was signed by Sensei Higashi, very special indeed, a piece of history, we hope Lily appreciates that when she is older.

Visiting Meme & Pepe and gifts!

Playing with Pepe.

Sitting quietly and playing with Meme. This is not the norm, she is full of energy, a rough and tumble gal most times.

This is so neat, it is a Halloween Photo/Scrap Book made by Auntie CAM. There is a page for photos for Lily in her Halloween costume from this year till she is about 14 years old. How cool?

Another Auntie CAM creation, a handmade photo album/scrap book for Lily. Photos from our trip to China, it is amazing.

From Aunt S & Uncle JP, a bunny towel for Lily, she will look even more adorable wearing this towel/robe.

A wicket cute outfit for Little Miss from Aunt S and Uncle J, they also sent a memory book that is specifically geared to an adopted child it is wonderful and I promise to fill it out not just let it sit on a shelf. Also note the beautiful rocking chair pad, Auntie Lou made those!

Lastly, Lily having lunch today at Meme & Pepe's wearing the bib from Auntie S.

The things a mother will do...

So, this is a photo of me at the Vet clinic this morning. On my shoulder is "Niko", resident bird of the clinic. Once a month Chipper has to go the the clinic for a minor procedure and any time the bird is out of his cage he lands on me for a visit. Normally, I freak out a bit and immediately shoo it away. Today was different. Lily came along. This is proof positive that I am trying to be a good role model and not pass on any of my anxieties, phobias or bad habits. So, I smiled pleasantly and told Lily the pretty birds name, she is enchanted with the bird, all the while I am thinking "Don't you dare poop on me bird, on my new Land's End jacket, you will be in big trouble."

Dale, bless his heart was so amused that he took this photo with his Blackberry then proceeds to say: "I wonder why he always lands on you when we are here, must be your hair, must remind him of a nest."

Hat weather

I cannot believe it is early October and it is hat and mitt weather already.

Fall colours in the backyard.

"Clearly this hat is too big."

The hat that Heather B. made, note the chubby cheeks have returned.

Have wheels will travel.

Lily and Dale today at the Shady Forest in the National Park.

Noella and Lily at Beach Grove trails.

We are somewhat settled. Lily is having a smoother transition than Mom and Dad. I cannot seem to find the time to clean the house and get organized. She has gained a pound since she has been in our care. She is teething, drooling lots she has a lower tooth coming in...We make a point of going for at least one walk a day if not two walks.

She is so funny, one moment all sweet and gentle the next moment not so delicate. The cat pretty much ignores her, the dog gives her a wide berth. We are still working on getting her to gently pet Chipper. He is enjoying the way she throws food on the floor occasionally. Take care, N