Prayer for the sharks

If any of you are Discovery Channel freaks like we are, you know this is the week. It's shark week. We've been watching it quite a bit and Sophia can effectively say "Shark!" Natalie really likes to watch the shows about people getting bitten by sharks or sharks eating bait. Frankly, some of the footage, for me, has had me holding her tight on my lap and closing my eyes!! They have definitely amped it up this year like never before.

We decided to stop watching it though because the other night, Natalie, when it came time for her to say her prayer, prayed that we wouldn't be bitten by sharks and that Daddy (who had earlier said he wanted to go where the "Big Sharks" where) wouldn't want to go there and we would all be safe! She went on for awhile and it's a good thing her eyes were closed--I was trying so hard not to bust out laughing! I'm sure Jesus appreciated her concern for one of his most ferocious creations!!

We had a play date with a family with a 2 1/2 YO little boy named Jack and a 1 YO little girl named Kate. We met them at the girl's mini camp and they came over. They are from England originally, but came here through their job in Virgina. They definitely didn't have all the resources we did, financially or network wise. It was a good reminder just how blessed we were to have this opportunity! But they are very much making the best of it and it's nice to meet someone who has a great attitude about being here and wants to try lots and lots of things! We are going to get together next week and then also have them over for dinner for our husbands can meet and drink beer together. :)

Dave and I are going on Saturday on a fishing trip, albeit, I'm going for the "lime" part of it. We will cruise around to some little islands and swim, should be great fun! We will have some new pictures to post very soon!

As a side note, Sophia was just in here scolding her baby and stood behind my chair for about 3 minutes repeating "DON'T DO THAT" in her Toddler speak. She is just a hoot!

Only 2 weeks till Mom comes, YAY! Company!

Thinking of all of you!

AV

Rain, Rain Go Away!

No pictures of this trip to the beach. We didn't want to bring the camera and that's a great thing! We got there and weren't there before it started raining on us, cats & dogs!! And I'm not talking a little rain. I'm talking cold, stinging rain! We sat in the car awhile, finally made a run to the changing area and then finally got our bake & shark (literally shark but the best fish sandwich you will EVER have! Check out the YouTube video from Bizarre Foods: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zh9CWFcps1w)

We went home and it rained the rest of the day. So, not the greatest beach day but the girls were troopers and we will be back soon. My favorite part is (always) watching Natalie jump the waves and Sophia run up to them and then from them as they get close to her! We don't even need toys, the sand and the surf are enough for us!

Dave and I saw The Dark Knight later on. Great movie-very intense and lots of violence. Heath Ledger is quite disturbing but I've always side it's easy to play crazy!

Not too much else going on right now but Saturday we go on our first fishing trip and I just booked our trip with my parents to Tobago. Got the greatest surprise when I found out my Dad was coming for part of my Mom's trip! YAHOO!

A little homesick today but I'll just keeping plugging through. Will help when people I know and can hang out with get back in town!

More soon!

Sweetness

I just had to post this. Sophia got up out of bed around 5 am this morning and I went and laid down with her. She wasn't too fidgety, she has taken to sleeping on one of her pillows now--part of her "big girl bed" thing I guess. She moved around a bit but I could tell she was asleep and at one point, she rolled on her back and started to try and get something out of her eye (probably a sleepy). I watched her for a bit and sure enough, she fell sound asleep with her finger in the corner of her eye!! It was the cutest thing. I knew she was gone when she twitched big and her hand fell onto the pillow beside her.

To match her, Natalie was "singing" in her sleep, and at one point, I heard her sing (literally) very softly, "Mommy..........Daddy"

Nothing of note about any adventures on this post, just wanted to share a sweet moment with my baby girls this morning. We are definitely all growing closer in ways I'm not sure we could have in the States, so I'm ever so grateful to God for giving us this opportunity.

'GAIN!

Now, to those of you who don't speak toddler, that is Sophia's version of AGAIN--meaning, let's do whatever we have done in the last few seconds again, and do it A LOT more! That's what I heard shortly before we really had to leave The Valley View Water Slide Park (only took her 2 hours and lunch to warm up to it! :)).

I did realize as we pulled up to this place that I'm insane, but I love to experience new things with my kids. The "water park" (it's only 3 slides, 2 of which were in operation today) is on a hill, meaning you have to walk up a 40 degree angle for about 300 feet before you get to the slides. And do this each time you want to slide. (Here is the link to the description, no pictures really available--it's actually at the Cascadia Hotel in St. Ann's about 25 minute drive from our house: http://www.cascadiahotel.com/facilities/recreation.htm)

Regardless of this daunting challenge (you never know with my free spirit Natalie if she will be adventurous and Sophia is only 2 after all), I pulled up my boot straps, paid my $10 for us to get in ($60 TT) and started off. We ended up having a WONDERFUL time, and it was a good thing I hadn't gotten up and ran this morning. I had to carry Sophia up that hill to the slide NINE TIMES before she would walk by herself. And it took her 8 times to get excited about it! The last 2 times (which she walked up by herself) she loved it and even laughed and the 3 of us even went down together once! But she did but most interestingly was Natalie. We talked about how I might not be able to go down with her because I had to stay with Sophia (and I wasn't all that sure Sophia would like it) and she said she would slide on her own. And slide she did! I wish I had a camera, she was so big and brave, and she lapped us every time! She probably slide down 20 times to our 7 (before we broke for lunch) and then another 5 or 6 before I pulled the plug on our excursion.

We were also like rock stars (the girls were at least) and I'm sure thanks in part because we were the whitest people there BY FAR. Both girls are such a hit with the locals because most of the children have never seen people like them up close and personal. It doesn't hurt that Sophia is so cute and chubby and Natalie made new friends she went sliding with instantly! We did have a hard time getting out of the place, as Natalie was exhausted but we persevered and I only had to get tough once.

As I type, they are both passed out and I pray they will get some rest as we are having company tonight--our first in our house! We are grilling chicken, fish (fresh from Maracas Bay--King fish it's called) and of course, I have to arrange other sides. It's one (single) guy Dave works with and his nephew. They might not be "salad" guys but that is what they are getting! :) And Red Lobster Cheddar Biscuits.

So, I must jet. I must take some Advil as my forearms from carrying my youngest up Slide-Everest are reminding me and I have marinades to make and I probably ought look decent for our guests.

If any are coming for a visit and bringing children (aka Craig, Maddy and Ryan or Melissa and Ryann) we will definitely go to this park, it was a lot of fun and we can trade carrying Sophia! :)

What's in a meal?

If it weren't called Indian food, would it still taste the same? We went to a local landmark last night called Apsara. Reported to be the best Indian food outside of India. Not having been to India, I can't verify that statement but it was great. I mean, just good ol' comfort food, at least what I got. Dave's was really good as well, his appetizer was spectacular. The only problem is that while we tried to go out afterwards, it was literally like we'd been drugged, we were both having issues keeping our eyes open!!!! But it was awesome. And one of the more expensive meals we've ever had, but worth it.

(and just so you know, dinners out in TT, pretty much anywhere you go--if it's a "nice" restaurant--will be expensive, whether you have alcohol or not!)

We got home and went to bed, ready for a very pleasant night sleep. To no avail. Our neighbors were having a party--playing cards on their patio. Which is right outside our bedroom window. They were up all night!! As was their stereo. So, while we didn't ACTUALLY stay up all night, sure feels like we did, fortunately without the hangover!

I did discuss with Dave about opening all our windows first thing this morning (we get up early) and playing OUR music really loud. How would they like some praise and worship songs this Sunday morning? *Sigh* Oh, well, we don't need to start a war with our neighbors, but it's a fun idea after listening to them all night.

It is not raining today, thank goodness! Hopefully we can go swimming. Natalie seems to have a knack for knowing those days. She has already asked multiple times! Gotta run get ready for church, Happy Birthday to Craig (well, yesterday)--we named the lizard outside after you! We will get a picture of him and post it!

YES!

We got our sea shipment yesterday! Hurray! This house is feeling like home because our stuff is everywhere. :)

There is A LOT of work to be done, putting it all away. Slowly, slowly progress is being made. So far, the kitchen is set up fully, their girls room (minus wall hangings--need more hooks), the playroom and 80% of the master bedroom. Next to tackle is mine and Dave's closet, then the guest bedroom and then the utility room.

The study will be last, as Dave has some stuff in mind. Oh yes and we have to work out a way to hang all those drapes I was 'encouraged' to buy. aarrggh.

But I wanted to share this as when the movers were here last night, I instructed them to just put everything on the bed. So, they did. I spent almost 2 hours this morning to get it to look like the 2nd picture. :)

(And I have used every bit of space in this room, including the closet and above storage space!!!)

The girls are VERY excited to return home (for once) from their mini-camp/school, so they can play in the play room!! It is indeed like Christmas. So--Merry Christmas in July! To us anyways! :)

And we finally have a TV WITH CABLE that works in our bedroom. We had to come all the way to Trinidad for it work.

It's pretty exciting, I have to say, to finally be settling in. I'm off to uncover all of my "old friends" from my closet in Houston!!

Chag-a what?

So, we went to the nature preserve, an area called Chaguaramus (I think), today. Would have helped had we all been in a good moods with lots of sleep and didn't have to turn around 1/2 through to get gas! Good lesson though--there is really only one gas station on the western side of the island so don't go on a road trip without it. There is a beach there and several hiking trails. Also this thing called the Bamboo Cathedral, which we will have to do at another time because it was already really hot and the girls were tired. The beach is in a small cove, very cute. Water is what some would call "refreshing" and at least our feet appreciated it!

We ate at the marina there, needless to say, some restaurants in TT don't have a clue what children eat, so that was an expereince too!

All good lessons, we are enjoying exploration at least and next time we go, we will know what to do! It's a beautiful area though, lush and green, bamboo and sugar cane all around! Also tarantulas, we got to see a corpse of one, which the girls thought was really cool--it just gave me the willies!!

Our next trip, I've requested, is to see a well-known monstary, deep in the hills. It's a decent distance away so maybe I can talk Dave into doing that next Friday on his 'off' day. We shall see.

Next Saturday officially begins Potty Training for Sophia! I think she is ready and I know I am. Hopefully we will have our sea shipment in the next week or so, which will make it a lot more fun to be at the house, with their toys here!

Incidentally, we watched the movie version of "Phantom of The Opera" last night--which both girls LOVED. Sophia sat through nearly the whole thing, I couldn't believe it! She does like singing! And Natalie said she dreamed about all those songs all night.

Hope you are enjoying our adventure! Check out the new pics!

2 in TT

So, Sophia turned 2 today! Hard to believe it, it seems like just yesterday, literally, that Mike Baker was calling me as I packed my bag for the hospital and then Dave and I looked at each other right before I went into the OR! And the first time we saw her and then the first real moments with her in the hospital room after we were both "recovered." She is a doll baby for sure! She is also growing very independent, faster than Natalie did for sure. They can really get on each others nerves (and mine!) but can we so sweet. I look at her napping in her big girl bed and I'm sad because I know she won't look so small in it for very long! She is a cutie pie--she said "I 2" when you ask her how old she is and I've sang Happy Birthday to her so much, she is singing it by herself! And of course Natalie is very excited about the cake. Hopefully Kendall and Josh, our next door neighbors (Natalie and Sophia's age and their Mom works for the Embassy) can come over later!

We will probably be in the States next year for her birthday, so hopefully we can have a real party, it's much more important to a 3 year old anyway!

We drove our housekeeper home today. That was an interesting experience. Not only was it a long drive, it was to Maraval, which is like driving from Katy to Pearland, relatively, on a two-lane, twisty, small road! And it was raining! We got to see where she lives and to get to her house, it's quite a trek. I am so grateful for her and her work ethic and that is one thing about Trini's that I've noticed. They may not always get the time right but when they show up, they give the job their all till it's done or they can't do anymore!

She has a almost-8 month old little girl and both Natalie and SOphia love her. They talked her ear off all the way home! It was good and more than a little bit humbling to see how far she has to travel, mostly on foot and by bus, to get to us. We are so priveledged, if I didn't know who it all came from and be truly grateful for it, I would feel sick to my stomach with guilt. I do understand though why other countries can let their envy of our excess turn to hatred. It's not right but we have so much more than everyone else, we should share it.

But in Christian way, not a Democratic way. ;) Love to all my Democratic and Republican friends!

Going to go get ready for the girls to wake and have a party when Daddy gets home! :))

Wired in TT!

Hola!

FINALLY! A COMPUTER! Now I can do important things like online shopping! :) Just got it today and fortunately can plug in cords and such to get it working.

I'm ready for the sea shipment but that's going to be pretty crazy--LOTS of stuff coming in that, it really will be like Christmas. I am immensely grateful to have my dustbuster and some decent cups for the girls. Now, we can receive calls! Well, as soon as we get a phone. Turns out the ones we bought are in the sea shipment. :)

Girls are adjusting well and have enjoyed their mini-camp in the mornings. Making some good friends and coming home pretty well exhausted. Life with Mommy isn't that tiring I guess.

God has been very good to Dave and I this week. There have been a couple of situations that have been very unpleasant but we've pulled it together and put those differences behind us. We figured out (again) that it's better to be on the same team than different sides of the fence. God has answered my prayers for open hearts and minds and as always, when you are obedient to Him, He never fails to bless you with exactly what you need.

Since I've been living on the very minimum for the last 3 weeks, it seems odd to think that we have more stuff coming. Almost seems in excess but it will be nice to have stuff on the walls and make this more "ours" than not.

Anyhoo, keep in touch! I will and pics coming as soon as Dave comes home with the camera. :)

AV

Food for thought!

I forgot to include this in my last post. The tickets to Port of Spain--from Houston--have gone up and range between $650-$750. So, if you were planning on visiting us, here is something to keep in mind that is significantly more cost effective!! Frequent flyer miles (on Continental direct flights) only require 30-35,000 miles, which is (in all the cases I've experienced) about 15-20,000 miles less than domestic flights!!

So, hopefully that renews your desire to come and see us!

Things still going well! Still haven't gotten our air or sea shipment, so still living on "less" but are doing ok! Girls go to summer camp next week and the week after (day camp from 8 am-12 pm) and I get to go get my Trini drivers license!!

Dave and I are going out for our first "Date" in TT on Thursday and hope to post some pictures soon!!

AV