1 year and counting...

Dear Emma Paige,
You have had three mothers in your first 9 years of life, that alone is rough, but without the first sets of mothers, you would have never came to us. One mother gave birth to you in far away China and another adopted you and brought you to Idaho. Both mothers knew a better home awaited for you and August 14, 2009 you came 'home' to us. Even though this year has had some ups and downs, we think we have made that turn-around. You have finally found your forever family, Happy Gotcha Day.

Random Art?

So Sarasota has random art through out the city. Kelli loved the bigger then life turtle while Sal wrestled the giant alligator.

The marina had beautiful shade trees that held off the sun and rain!

Approach Island Park on Sarasota Bay and you will see people lined up for a photo with the town's biggest celebrity, the statue titled Unconditional Surrender. We too lined up too! During WWII a snapshot was taken of a Navy man returning to NY and his nurse girlfriend. Of all the art in Sarasota this was my favorite. Us by the dolphin pond isn't bad either ;-)

Coast to Coast

We enjoyed the beach at Longboat Key. The children explored the sand and surf for seashells, crabs and fish. Everyone tried to boogie board in the gulf.

It's Alive...

G. Wiz Science Center and boardwalk

Laughing Lagoon

The Boys...

Vinny and Logan hunted for sea creatures big and small.

Sal and Nick trying to surf in the lagoon...

The Girls...

Mikala, Kelli and Emma searched for small sea creatures close to shore.
The Indian River lagoon has a special place for everyone!

Beach Baby!

Kelli trying out her new Dora body board, Emma swam out to see if she need help catching a wave.

Our favorite beach has a cool rock jetty that the boys explored for the first time. After many climbs up and down the boulders the boys caught fish, snails and a hermit crab.

Sandcastle Surfing!