Soulful Sunday

Church, Sunday School, some food shopping and haircuts!  And all of us enjoyed some time outside.

And I started a new series on Amazon with Emeril Lagasse - Eat the World. I am addicted!  Kendall wanted to watch The Tick, which had 1 episode!

Buenas noches!

  

 

 

Solar City Baby!

Our Solar City install started today. They were unable to finish because of weather but we are excited! We rescheduled therapy hung out at home until the thunderstorm. I had to manually cut down a bush (well most if it)- not fun but I did it!

Today is our official Family Anniversary - 4 years already!  I love you to infinity and beyond Kendall!

Buenas noches!

 

 

Thank Goodness It's Friday

We are chilling out tonight and taking a break. I ordered Chinese online and picked it up after work.bAnd no Tae Kwon Do tonight.

Buenas noches!

Thoughtful Thursday

Beautiful weather for a beautiful day. On my way home, Kendall's school called to tell me he missed his bus home. First time ever!  So I re-routed to pick him up. Lot of traffic from DE to PA and from school home.  Another boy had also missed the same bus so they are thinking it was a glitch in the system. I love that Kendall is using the word glitch :-)

We arrive home at 6pm instead of our usual 5pm. We chatted with the Abuelos a bit in the car sitting in traffic to be somewhat productive. And we are exhausted and both not feeling so great,

Buenas noches!

Theatre Wednesday

Dermatology check for me in the afternoon and a biopsy was sent for one area.  No news is good news so I hope next week about this time I don't hear anything.  Yearly checks were recommended for me - what fun!  Quick in and out to feed and walk the fur babies and then John's Pizza for dinner with Miss Pam and Miss Deb.  Bonus was that Cassie and Lena were there and stayed for dinner! Kendall, of course, received special treatment with lunch all ready and packaged for tomorrow.

We saw The Matchmaker by Thornton Wilder.  It was wonderful - incredible actors/musicians/ singers!  They had a musical pre-show that we very much enjoyed.  "Ninety-nine percent of the people in the world are fools and the rest of us are in great danger of contagion.” So says the wealthy widower Horace Vandergelder who recruits the vivacious and sly Dolly Levi to find him a new wife in this wild mix of outrageous misbehavior, mistaken identity, and spontaneous romance. 

Our favorite lines:
Dolly "Gallagher" Levi: "Money, pardon the expression, is like manure. It's not worth a thing unless it's spread around, encouraging young things to grow."

And in this version the youngest character Barnaby Tucker (which captured Kendall's attention since he was the youngest person attending the play tonight) summarized the play "The world is full of wonderful things and that we all should enjoy just the right amount of sitting quietly at home and just the right amount of adventure."   Amen.

Kendall had math, science, language arts and social studies homework (a record since it was all his major subjects but I emailed his teacher's that we would complete any unfinished homework Thuirsday night) that we did not finish.

We made it home at quarter to 11pm, exhausted but a fun night!

Buenas noches!

 

 

Second Stripe Green Belt Test Tae Kwon Do Wednesday

Mission Accompished!  Estoy muy orgulloso!

Buenas noches!

 

 

 

 

 

 

President's Day Monday

No child care so I stayed home with Kendall per his request. I know one day he won't request me staying home! I worked in the morning and made kimchi in the afternoon. Kendsll had his piano lesson today and I ur living room is a bit more organized. We finished off the day with Tae Kwon Do in the evening since he tests for stripe 2 of the green belt tomorrow.

Buenas noches!

Blessings Sunday

Early church, Superhero discussion in Sunday School and then the Children's Choir sang Blessings in church. Every time I hear this song, I cry 😥

A quick stop at Giant, new shoes for Kendall (he's still size 13) and then home to enjoy another beautiful day. Kendall chose catfish for dinner and we kept the seafood theme with fried clams, fried coconut shrimp and clams casino. Yum!

And some FaceTime with the Abuelos while they are at a retreat in Scottsdale.

Buenas noches!

Warm Bicycle Saturday

Finally a day we can sleep in. Beautiful weather to spend outdoors. We all organized a bit and put the bike rack on the car and headed to Bike Line in Exton to drop off Kendall's bikes for service. And boy did they need service - new brakes and tuneup.  My bikes are in good shape and just need air.   We do need some practice putting the bike rack AND bikes on the car. I held my breath driving to Bike Line 😳

And Season 1 of Grand Tour is done - we're ready for Season 2.

Buenas noches!

Freedom Friday

Early Tae Kwon Do class and Grand Tour. TGIF 😍

And some lost art...

Buenas noches!

 

Workout Thursday

We walked and fed everyone then headed to the gym in West Chester for our circuit training. Many thanks to Tom for showing both Kendall and myself all the equipment. Kendall and I even worked out on elliptical afterwards. The TV was a bonus for him!

We felt great, had lots of fun and using the back roads we go through a covered bridge. Kendall took a photo! The only negative is that the gym is 30 minutes away so we spend an hour on the road.  We are working on a work out schedule 😊

Buenas noches!

 

Wednesday Already?!

I had to travel to Edison, NJ today do Kendall rode the bus and Clark was confused when we walked to the bus stop without him. I decided not to take him because he barking a lot at nothing through the window and we would be seeing lots of dogs, kids and cars. I think he barked until he couldn't see us and them barked when he saw me return! I had left what I needed for work on the porch since Steve was picking me up. The bridge between the PA and NJ Turnpike is closed so I was the navigator. We wended up on the PA Turnpike to Route 1 to the NJ Turnpike. A long ride but we survived. Bonus was the diner we went to fur lunch - Greek moussaka!

Dinner, homework and Tae Kwon Do. A great day but we are exhausted!

Buenas noches!

Feliz Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day)

Math and language arts, piano lesson, fried chicked with a sweet potato and roasted brussel sprouts for dinner from Hello Fresh - the only thing Kendall did not like was the skin of the sweet potato and then his present - https://jam.com/ My inventor is ready to build :-)

Below are photos of Valentine's gifts from the Abuelos and Costa Rica is for lovers: the affectionate language of daily life!

And on this day 4 years ago, I met Kevin, Eduardo and Kattya at a party at the hogar and Kendall moved in with me at Suites Cristina. A monumental day!

Buenas noches!

Study Monday

Math test today, science quiz tomorrow and Kendall was not feeling well so it was a stay-in Monday. We had steak, left-over home-made mashed potatoes and a broccoli salad. Kendall asked for steak again and I feel I did a better job this time!

A FacetTme with the Abuelos for a piano practice and for Michael Oppenheimer to sell the keyboard given to him by the Abuelos to the Abuelos for a profit.

Fascinating!

Buenas noches!

Soulful Sunday

Four years ago, today, I was driven to the hogar to see Kendall again and planning how to public transportation to get to and from the hogar so Kendall can see Suites Cristina.  Nervous but I would figure it out!

Today, church, worship training for the 3rd 6th graders, dunkin donuts for lunch, finishing math homework,a christuan education meeting and then fun with Adrienne, Carlos and Kalel!

For the boys: Fun climbing, watching TV and being boys!

For the girls:  I droppped of Kendall with Carlos and Adrienne and I met  Heather from church at The Salt Vault in Parkesburg, PA  What fun!  We chatted, made a body scrub, massage oil and linen spray and then 30 minutes of pure quiet and relaxation in the heated Himalayan Salt Room.

For all of us: Fiun catching up, playing and being together!

Some studying for a science test and sweet and sour pork chops and roasted vegetables a for dinner.

Buenas noches!

Family, Car and Fitness Connection Saturday

Four year ago, Kendall and I met in person. A lot happened that day that culminated at lunch at McDonald's. We do not frequent McDonald's in the US but we do like to eat our for breakfast, lunch or dinner,

We had a car appointment at Honda nad emjoyed a wonderful breakfast at Green Street Grill in Downingtown, Kendall had Camachos Nachos with Fried Pickles on the side and I had a smoked salmon, lettuce, onion, tomato, caper, olive bagel.  Awesome and Kendall had a take home lunch! Then we headed to BJs to get some shopping done before our Physician Referred Exercise Program for me really bit Kendall is willing to do it with me, cheer me on and learn about nutrition and exercise equipment.

Steak per Kendall's request (a little overcooked but we don't have steak often) and then some Grand Tour!

Buenas noches!

Familia Friday

Four years ago, this was my first full sunny day in Costa Rica where the realization really hit me that I would meet my son tomorrow and that I needed to create a "home" at the Suites Cristina for him. I remember dying my hair (I packed Loreal Preference 6R in my suitcase :-0)  I walked ot find a local church but there was none in walking distance. I did; however, see what was in walking distance.  I had lunch with the Costa Rica Social Worker, Daniel, and our lawyer, Sergio, where I found out  a woman would assist/interpret for me and that I should ready Suites Cristina for an 8 year old boy.  I set up our home on our return but gave no thought to Costa Rica.  I had some work to do!  Luckily Daniel took me the mercado to orient me to Costa Rican staples and purchase a few items.

I would meet Kendall the following day so I had a sleepless night and Kendall told me he did as well in anticipation of Mother and Son meeting in person for the first time.

Tae Kwon Do and then a Jammy Fig and Brie Grilled Cheese Sandwich from Hello Fresh. Both Kendall and I loved it!  I also made a roasted mushroom and arugula salad with balsamic dressing that I enjoyed as well. Kendall does not like argula - more for me!

Buenas noches!

Reminscing Snow Day Thursday

Four years ago, I was up at the crack of dawn. There was a hint of bad weather and ice but good thoughts and ultimately good flying weather prevailed.  Pam Dean pick me up early early in the morning and drove me to the Philadelphia Airport for a direct flight to Costa Rica.  I was seated next to a wife and son (who was close to same age as Kendall). Her husband was in a different row and they were renting a house in Manuel Antonio for a fmaily vacation. They had been to Costa Rica before and we talked for the entire non-stop flight, We even discovered that she worked with a friend I went to high school with!

On arrival to Costa Rica, I navigated to Suites Cristina and checked in, My room was on the second floor but would be changed to first floor family rooms.  I also explored around the hotel and couldn't believe I was in Costa Rica!

But today, Kendall and I celebrated a true Snow Day - no school or work and wnjoyed spending the day at home together!

\
Buenas noches!

 

 

 

2016/17 Broadway Philadelphia - The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime

 

Whirlwind (4 years ago) Wednesday

We are praying for a Snow Day tomorrow! But 4 years ago, this would not have been the case since I was going INSANE trying to get the house, the animals and myself ready to leave for Costa Rica for Kendall.  I didn't sleep much and I did the best I could.  If there was snow, I would have to change the flight. Luckily, I built in 1 extra day to arrive in Costa Rica for this possibility. I needed to arrive by Feb 10 but I wanted Feb 9 for me to acclimate a bit.

Some homework and enjoying familia tonight.

Buenas noches!

GratiTuesday

Gratitude is more than just a feeling, it's a conscious choice to see life through a lens of abundance rather than lack. Try stepping into Anne Frank's shoes today, and appreciate what is there instead of what isn't. "Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy." Anne Frank

And from Outside magazine, I enjoyed a article on Beer Based Gratitude Scale for Outdoor People :-)

Buenas noches!

Grateful Tuesday

ART GARFUNKEL "Grateful"

 (John Bucchino)

I've got a roof over my head
I've got a warm place to sleep
Some nights I lie awake counting gifts
Instead of counting sheep

I've got a heart that can hold love
I've got a mind that can think
There may be times when I lose the light
And let my spirits sink
But I can't stay depressed
When I remember how I'm blessed

Grateful, grateful
Truly grateful I am
Grateful, grateful
Truly blessed
And duly grateful

In a city of strangers
I got a family of friends
No matter what rocks and brambles fill the way
I know that they will stay until the end

I feel a hand holding my hand
It's not a hand you can see
But on the road to the promised land
This hand will shepherd me
Through delight and despair
Holding tight and always there

Grateful, grateful
Truly grateful I am
Grateful, grateful
Truly blessed
And duly grateful

It's not that I don't want a lot
Or hope for more, or dream of more
But giving thanks for what I've got
Makes me happier than keeping score

In a world that can bring pain
I will still take each chance
For I believe that whatever the terrain
Our feet can learn to dance
Whatever stone life may sling
We can moan or we can sing

Grateful, grateful
Truly grateful I am
Grateful, grateful
Truly blessed
And duly grateful

Truly blessed
And duly grateful.

Monday :-(

And we didn't want to wake up. School, work, homework then Tae Kwon Do.

Our coffee maker won't turn on and I was explaining to Kendall how to check if the coffee maker was broken or if there was a problem with the GFI.  And to check the circuit breaker.  I moved everything around in the kitchen and the outlet had tripped (not the coffee maker - Kendall wanted to know how hold it was and suggested we buy a new one :-0) so I will be organizing the kitchend counters tomorrow,

Buenas noches!

Superbowl Sunday

8am church, Sunday school and a quick stop at the grovery store.

Then we watched A Kid in King Arthur's Court which we rented yesterday but then Zachary called and Max Keeble's Big Move, which now has put the thought of moving in Kendall's head.  Both were fun movies.

And then the Superbowl - what a great game and half-time show.  We went to bed at 9:20ish and the Falcons were winning going into the 4th quarter.  We missed the Overtime but it was great game all the way around.  In the middle of the game I had a meltdown of sorts as Kendall ended up with a drink (with lots of sugar) on the floor and in an entire drawer.  I sent him upstairs and he did some laundry and room organzation while I cleaned up and threw away damaged items. He called the Abuelos and we chatted with them and then all was well.

We love the commercials and Kendall's (and my favorite) was journey84.com because it left us wanting more and we wanted to know how the story ended.

Buenas noches!

Therapy and Ollies Saturday

We had a great catch up session with Alba this morning and then went to Ollies with a 15% off coupon.  I picked out curtains and Kendall found an auto book. I am so glad he checked out the book section. 

We rented Catch That Kid, which was very good. Then Kendall played with Zachary a bit. A wonderul Saturday!

Buenas noches!

Freedom Friday

Our boss didn't make it into work (home sick) and we hope he feels better but Arsalan and I were in the mood for an afternoon lunch adventure so we headed to the Wilmington Riverfront.  We had Joe's Crabshack in mind but then decided on a new place that has just been open 3 weeks - Del Pez Mexican GastroPub. What a good vibe with their welcome and decor when we entered! And especially when we checked out the menu.  Our waitress, Katelyn, was a lot of fun and very helpful helping us to order.  Arsalan and I wanted to try everything so we'll be back!  They have home-made guacamole and we tried their Diablo choice - hot and with crab meat.  They also have home-made cocktails that we need to try when we not on work hours :-)   Many of their dishes used pomergranates for a burst of flavor that I thought was very creative.  

Tae Kwon Do and then we relaxed the rest of the evening. TGIF :-0 And I am in a reminscent mode since Facebook reminded me that on February 3, 2013, I posted:  
Some of you may know (and some do not since I have kept this private) that I had submitted an adoption application to Costa Rica in May 2010. My application in Costa Rica was accepted in December 2011. I received a referral in this past June for a then 7 year old boy (he is now 8) named Kendall Alejandro. I accepted the match in July and since then have been completing the paperwork to go to Costa Rica to complete the adoption. Everything has been scheduled and I leave for Costa Rica on Saturday, February 9. My court date in Costa Rica Is February 25. I will be in Costa Rica for approximately one month. I will be blogging about the adoption and the website is the theradwickchante.blogspot.com. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. No gifts please but if you would like to send a card, he can open them when we get back and I can slowly introduce everyone to him.

2017 is our 4 year anniversary. I can't even explain the blessing that is Kendall.

Buenas noches!

Intentionally Full Groundhog Day Thursday

Well, first, Groundhog Day - Punxsutawney Phil Sees Shadow, Predicts 6 More Weeks of Winter

After work, I headed to our vet in Exton after work to pick up flea and heartworm medication for Cordelia and Clark and dinner at KFC.

Some Language Arts and trash night so...

Buenas noches!

Zodiac Wednesday!

When I was in pharmacy school in Philadelphia, I really enjoyed reading anything Rob Breszny http://freewillastrology.com/ wrote -  especially his zodiac predictions.  I am a Gemini, but I admit I read all his musings for all of the signs. 

This is my horoscope for this week: Here are your five words of power for the next two weeks, Gemini. 
1. *Unscramble.* Invoke this verb with regal confidence as you banish chaos and restore order. 
2. *Purify.* Be inspired  to cleanse your motivations and clarify your intentions. 
3. *Reach.* Act as  if you have a mandate to stretch out, expand, and extend yourself to  arrive in the right place. 
4. *Rollick.* Chant this magic word as you activate your drive to be lively, carefree, and frolicsome. 
5. *Blithe.* Don't take anything too personally, too seriously, or too literally.
Now this was inspiring for me!

Kendall had math and language arts and believe it our not, he had both done both and we had a great dinner before we left for Tae Kwon Do. And language arts was identifying the underlined word(s) as present, present participle, past and past participle. I'll admit I looked up present and past participle.
And the great dinner, you ask? Well, it was a home-made bacon cheeseburger with air fried french fries.  I offered Kendall what I though was a choice of 3 cheeses (american, provolone or swiss) and he chose provolone and swiss. It sounded good to me so I made the burgers the same. YUM!

While Kendall was at Tae Kwon Do, I went to the grocery store for snacks since we didn't stop by the store on Wednesday. By the time we made it home and Kendall took a shower it was 9pm so.....

Buenas noches!

Grati Piano Tuesday

Kendall felt he did well on his Physics test.  We had a homemade mashed potatos, pork and vegetables for dinner.  For language arts, Kendall picked the topic of a tire to describe.  That was funcsince he so creative when he described it but didn't want to write his first thought since it would take so long.  So we took his wonderfully descriptive sentence and took it to its basic fun.  What a beautiful mind he has!

Buenas noches!