CCAI October 2006 Tea Monkeys

Congrats Tea Monkeys

2008-04-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

Our agency has finally posted on their website that All of November is out or Review.

Congrats to all of you who have waited on Pins and Needles.

This is another hurdle for us but slowely but surely we will get there.

Happy Spring Tea Monkey's.

Dee

awaiting sophie

2008-02-16T19:10:00.001-08:00

Glittery texts by bigoo.ws

Saving the Best for Last....

2008-02-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

I am so late in saying a gi-normous Thank You Heather..........

She was the bestest secret pal.

Heather made Mila Blue a beautiful blanket.

She gave her a lovely warm sweater.

adorable kiddie chopsticks.

Chopsticks for grown folks.

And Heather's nice friend sent me a little piece of home.

Hand made tiles from Portugual.

And as always a heartwarming card for support.

You are an amazing lady and a really good friend!

Thank You, Dee

Bath time!

2008-01-05T13:30:00.001-08:00

Thanks to excellent SP Tammy, Baby Wan will enjoy bath time! We got all kinds of goodies again: nice, soft washcloths, little bath animals, a sheep-shaped scrubby, and a warm towel to wrap up in. After Baby's all clean, there are even more toys -- a set of stacking rings and letter blocks! Tammy, you've been a great pal!
(P.S.: Sorry to be so late posting, but I've had bronchitis, and have been lying pretty low the past couple weeks ... finally getting better now ...)

Thank You Dee Kelley!!!

2007-12-30T16:06:00.000-08:00

I was truly SURPRISED to learn my Secret Pal #3 was Dee Kelley! We returned last evening from spending Christmas with our son in Guatemala and I was exhausted... but not too exhausted to open my final SP#3 package! ;)

Dee sent thoughtful and lovely presents for my whole family:

Delicious chocolates for me and Dan
Delicious bones for the pooches - Brody, Alfie and Katie
Rattles and books for our angel daughter from China and our angel son Dominic from Guatemala
Adorable Dora the Explorer doll dressed for an adventure in China
Fun scrapbook stuff for the pooches photo album
As always, a gorgeous custom card

Thank you Dee for being such an amazing and supportive Secret Pal! I seriously had no idea who you were and am THRILLED I learned more about you. I look forward to continuing our blossoming friendship! Happy New Year!

A HUGE Thanks to Kristina!!!

2007-12-22T07:11:00.001-08:00

Kristina was my pal and she truly blessed us the past three months! I must say she really sent us some unique and thoughtful gifts.

As you can see from the pictures and captions, Kristina really went all out and blessed us greatly through her time, gifts, and love! We are so happy she was our pal! Thank you Kristina and family. Your family is AWESOME. Tell Olivia her picture is on our wall of honor!

Love in Christ,
Tammy in MS
http://ourchinagiftfromgod.blogspot.com/

Thank You Andrea W.

2007-12-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

Thank you Andrea for all the spoiling the past three months. This month's package was awesome and I love everything. My digital camera is having problems (hoping Santa is bringing me a new camera) but I wanted to say a big thank you.

This month we received 2 really cute shirts - one says "Best Present Ever" and has a big red bow - how cute will that be on one of these Christmas'!!! The stacking toy is very cool and the chocolates, well lets just say there almost gone!

Thanks again for thinking of me and I look forward to someday meeting you in person. Health and Happiness in 2008!

Daniella

THANK YOU DANIELLA!!!

2007-12-20T08:06:00.000-08:00

I have the most incredible pal. In this month's box, Daniella shared her holiday tradition with us by including a copy of "The Night Before Christmas". I remember reading this book with my family growing up, and I'm sure we'll enjoy reading it with our daughter as well. Also in the box were a super cute Tag Blanket (Daniella - did you make this?), a gorgeous Christmas ornament, and Christmas kitchen towels. Our daughter will look adorable wearing the Santa bib and hat (something tells me a Santa hat = good bribery pictures for teenage years)! Lastly, since Daniella knows I've been missing the ocean, she sent a book of wise quotes from the sea. It's perfect. D.'s hogging the digital camera right now, but I wanted to go ahead and post a THANK YOU in the meantime.

Daniella, I've so enjoyed getting to know you better over the last few months. May we continue to build our friendship over this long wait and beyond. Thanks for being such a wonderful, thoughtful, pal!!!

Thank You Laura Vela!

2007-12-19T09:28:00.000-08:00

Thank you sooooo much Laura for spoiling me and my family the past three months! It has been so much fun getting to know you. I know we have formed the beginnings of a lifetime friendship! Can't wait to find out more about you now that I know its you!

This month Laura got my family a snowman filled with yummy treats. I have already dove into the popcorn! Also there was a beautiful picture frame on a pedestal that I am picturing Diana's referral looking fabulous in! As always Diana got a cute outfit. This one is red velour and will look soooo cute on her during the holidays! My computer that I download pictures from is being repaired but I will post pictures when I can.

Laura, Thank you again for being such a wonderful secret pal! My family really appreciates all you have done. I especially as you know have loved all the encouragement you have sent my way!

Lisa

Thank You SP#3!!!

2007-12-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

My darling SP#3 sent the loveliest package to me! She makes these very nice and thoughtful custom cards, they are so wonderful. Our daughter received her first mealtime gifts - Hello Kitty bowl and cup, and matching bib - so precious! For our home, beautiful Linen scented potpourri and candle - so refreshing! For me, many spa products including foot scrub, body scrub and manicure kit - ahhhhh, perfect for this time of year! Last but not least, dark chocolate covered lemon treats - I am anxious to try this decadent treat! :)

Thank you SP#3, for you kindness, support and thoughtfulness during this exchange. I appreciate your presence in my life and interest in our Guatemala adoption. XOXOXO, Laura

Secret Pal Your The Bestest......

2007-12-05T14:46:00.000-08:00

Well what can I say to you My Dear Sweet Pal.

Other than you have so got my Number.

She gave Mila Blue the Cutest Gymboree Top with a Kool Kitty on it, With matching hair Twirly's.

A Book that will have Me and Rob laughing for Days.

The Greatest Lies to Tell Small Kids.

A totally Kool Tatooed Devil Ducky.

His and Hers Delicious Chocolate Bars.

And Funky Zebra Dog Bones for Spikey.

And A Beautiful Heartfelt Card that always touches my heart More than She Knows.

Thank You, Sweet Pal.....

XOXO Dee

Thanks SP!

2007-12-02T14:10:00.000-08:00

My SP has outdone herself yet again! In the back is a set of nesting boxes (like Russian dolls), two darling frames -- maybe for first (smiling) pictures of Baby and Mommy and Daddy!
More books this month, which is great since we can't wait to read to Baby (we're both big readers -- you wouldn't believe the
number of books we have! -- and Baby should have plenty too!
Last but not least, some practical items, which I know will be useful -- disposable bibs, changing pads, and camera (for travel!) a rattle, and a thermometer.

SP, you think of everything! Thank you so much!

Andrea W.

A Giant Thank you to our Secret Pal...

2007-11-29T15:31:00.000-08:00

We have a great pal this round! Once again we are enjoying being spoiled and love having more to add to Sophie's collection. I can't imagine the wait without our groups to share, anticipate, and yes suffer through with!
The following pics are our gifts from the Oct and Nov packages. Dec. can't be better than those!

As you can see between the great scrapbook, cute outfit, and all the goodies to eat up we could not have been spoiled any better!
Thank you pal and I can't wait to find out who you are !
I hope you are getting great stuff, too!

Love in Christ,
Tammy, Rodney, & Bailee

http://ourchinagiftfromgod.blogspot.com/

Thank You Secret Pal

2007-11-25T15:37:00.000-08:00

We have been away for the Thanksgiving break and came home today to our November Secret Pal package. Your timing has just been wonderful :) This month our Secret Pal sent us a precious purple outfit that will be perfect for boating! I keep a similiar outfit on board for me - just a tad bigger :) Also included in our package was a Fisher Price Stack and Roll Cup set and a homemade card. The picture did not come out great but trust me, this outfit is soooo cute and I can't wait to see Miranda wearing it. Thank you for the thoughtful gifts and for all the ecards this month.

December Theme

2007-11-21T13:34:00.000-08:00

Several of you have asked for the theme for December, so here it is....

Holiday Traditions

Please share with your pal at least one holiday tradition celebrated by your family. This could be a recipe, music, an ornament, a story told, etc. It is important to keep in mind that not all of our members celebrate Christmas, so please try to keep your traditions holiday-themed as opposed to religiously oriented.

This is also the last month of this exchange round. Please reveal yourself (if you haven't exposed yourself already LOL) to your pal at the end of this month.

Happy shopping!!

Terribly Tardy Thank you

2007-11-21T12:06:00.000-08:00

I'm a month late, but I wanted to finally thank you publicaly for my gifts during the October exchange. I love the family picture frame and all of the scrap booking supplies. Now I need to get busy and put all of those cute stickers and embellishments to good use. I actually took a photo of everything you sent to post but words will have to do for this month (well, last month).

It has been especially nice getting to know you through emails and cards during the past few weeks. It has meant more to me than any gift!

Thanks again to my very special secret pal.

Kristina

Thank You Sweet Secret Pal.

2007-11-17T10:44:00.000-08:00

First I would like to say Sorry for being a slow poke about Posting,
But DH and Myself Are Grossly sick with the dreaded stomach flu and on Bed rest.

But I just can't say enough Thank You's to my Secret Pal.

She sent Us Yummy Chocolate (She made me promise to share)

Then She Gave us a Beautiful hanging frame set that is now hanging in my upstairs hallway.

A Baby Einstein Teething ring and Photo Album that is so going with us to China.

And a set of Back Yardagains Bobble heads (that I had to pry out of niece's little hands)

And my Personal Favorite a Book called my Baby's 1st Tattoo's.
Which just may be the funniest thing I have ever read .

We absolutely loved it!!!!

And a Beautiful heartfelt Card that meant a lot to me.

PS, I will post a picture of my lovely treasures as soon as i can find that darn charger for the camera.

Wonderful Wonderful Secret Pal!

2007-11-15T20:32:00.000-08:00

I need to thank my Secret Pal for being such a wonderful person. Besides the wonderful gifts I have gotten to know this amazing person and she has touched a special place in my heart. The gifts this round were just as fabulous as the last round but my all time favorite thing this time was her note. In it she was telling me about my gifts but then went on to talk about snuggling with Diana Marie. She then wished me a happy belated LID anniversary. Her final sentence so simple was a great encouragement"Never give up Lisa, we will have our babies soon!" Oh how I needed to hear that! It brought tears to my eyes! Thank you so much.

OK now that I've gotten all mushy here is what you all want to know and see. She got the family Lindt truffles (although I will NOT be teaching my boys about them anytime soon...lol). I may share them with Dave though. She got me a wonderfully scented Orange Cinnamon Candle and soap. I can't wait to light it this weekend. Also a generous gift card to Starbucks. I will have to have a pumpkin latte in fall fashion tomorrow!! For Diana she got the sweetest PJs with a mug of hot cocoa on the top and all kinds of fun things on the bottoms. When I snuggle with Diana when she is wearing them I will definitely be thinking of my wonderful Secret Pal!

Again Thank you soooo much for being so good to me and my family!

Lisa

Spoiled rotten!

2007-11-06T16:41:00.000-08:00

Maybe Baby Wan will be spoiled rotten, but right now I am! My OTMSP is the greatest! She sent me a beautiful frame which will be great for highlights of the adoption trip (though I might have to find some photos to put in it in the mean while!), FOUR books, each of which has a wheel you can turn so that the picture changes on each page (all with kids' songs), and last but not least, a bunch of goodies for me -- "W" post-its, fuzzy pens (which are going straight to the office!) and some great scrapbooking stickers! All this while she's been busy passing her comps for her M.A.! Congratulations OTMSP!!!!!

And thank you so much for all hte spoiling this month!

Andrea W

Big Xie Xie to My Secret Pal!!!

2007-11-03T14:29:00.001-07:00

I was THRILLED to return home from as business trip to find a package from my Secret Pal in Round #3. My husband told me I had received a package and I was so-o-o-o excited and looked forward to opening it all week. :)

My pal did a GREAT job spoiling me with a capital S!!!My package had bath products for me, an adorable red pantsuit for my baby girl, lots and lots of scrap booking supplies, Chinese dress wine cozy, a gorgeous pewter picture frame, soft book of Lilo & Stitch, fun CD for car rides and a beautiful custom card! WOW!!! Thank you so much SP, you made my week! :) Love, Laura

Wonderful Gifts!!!

2007-11-01T17:28:00.001-07:00

My secret pal is beyond wonderful! I got home to a box on my porch and couldn't wait to tear it open. There were a total of 5 packages and an envelope requesting to be opened last. There was a gift for each of the boys (Spider Man and Schrek puzzles). The boys are putting them together as I type.

There were two packages for Diana and my heart skipped a beat when I read the tag that said "Diana Marie". Although that will be one of her middle names I don't think I have ever heard/seen the names together in reference to my little girl to be. Anyway there was a sweet outfit in one box and the CUTEST tic-tac-toe set I have ever seen. Its a soft turtle board with Velcro turtles and ladybug circles for the X's and O's. Can't wait to see her playing with it with her brothers!

For me there was an awesome cookbook that I can't wait to go through and start making recipes from. Its called Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld. Also for our family there was a Blockbuster gift card. I am sure we have have some fun family movie nights with it!

Secret Pal....Thank you again for the wonderful gifts. It has been so much fun getting to know you this past month!!!

Lisa

THANK YOU SP

2007-10-27T10:14:00.001-07:00

Dear Secret Pal -
Your timing is impecable!!! Today on our one year LID, I must admit, I wasn't in the greatest of spirits. Receiving your package but a big smile on my face and renewed my sense of optimism (at least for now) :) The outfit and matching jacket is SOOOOO cute and is exactly my taste. I would have picked this out myself. The frame is beautiful and I will put our first picture as a family in it. Thank you for all the ecards and for thinking of me this past month!
~Daniella

My SP Rocks!!!

2007-10-26T16:29:00.001-07:00

Thanks so much to my very secret pal for the wonderful package that arrived on my doorstep yesterday!! The box was chock full of beautifully wrapped goodies - the picture below doesn't do it justice. In keeping with the theme of "Family Photos", my pal sent not one, not two, but three (count 'em!) photo albums. I love the little photo key chain with the Chinese character for Love on it. It will be the perfect place to carry around a referral photo (if we ever get one!).

D.'s favorite thing were the bibs (well, after the chocolate - not pictured here because it was promptly consumed). The doll is just precious - her body filled with hair bands is too cute! And, I'm sure the bookmark will get lots of use!

Thanks again for all of the special treasures - you outdid yourself. I hope you know how very appreciated you are!!

Secret Pal Exchange #3

2007-10-06T12:53:00.000-07:00

It's back, and just in time for the holidays....Secret Pal Exchange #3!!

All matches have been sent out, so it's time to get spoiling.

Our theme this month will be (by popular suggestion):

Family Photos

Gift suggestions include: picture frames, scrapbooking supplies, photo albums, and the list goes on....

Have fun!!

THANK YOU ROBIN!!

2007-08-21T17:21:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful to have had Robin as my Secret Pal the past three months. Due to our traveling last month, Robin sent our July package this week and once again, she outdid herself! For Joseph there was this awesome Spy kit (which by the way, he's been asking for) and I was waiting til' his bday to get so thanks from all of us for that!!! For Mimi there was 2 beautiful box sets of Boynton books. I am so excited for these - these are books we have never read and they look great! Today another great surprise came - a huge tin from the Popcorn Factory filled with all sorts of goodies. Hate to admit but it's almost half gone!!! We've been home all day cleaning out our playroom :) This was just what we needed to munch on!
~~~ Robin - the gifts were all incredible and very much appreciated but even more so, I feel I have made a friend that through this journey to our children will last forever. I hope to one day meet you! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
For some reason I can't upload the picture of the great tin from Popcorn Factory - ugh!!! Trust me is was great - the lid said ""hang in there Kowalski Family, Mimi will be home soon." Thank you again Robin!

Red, White, & Blue Exchange has been a hit for us!!!

2007-08-12T15:03:00.001-07:00

Lisa and Dave were great secret pals to receive gifts from!!! Lisa always sent the cutest and perfect outfits for our Sophie and never forgot our son, Bailee! You were a blessing to our family and we really appreciate all you did! It has been great learning about your bunch and getting to know you in this special way! Illinois has been a great state to us now with you guys and with Troy and Amy the time before. We are in a great group of awaitees!!! Thanks again and know you will always hold a special place in our hearts and minds! Our Sophie will learn all about you one day!

Love in Christ,

The Aldridges' (Tammy)

Awaiting Sophie
http://ourchinagiftfromgod.blogspot.com/

Red, White & Blue Goodies!

2007-08-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, perfect timing from my FABULOUS Secret Pal! Work is crazy right now and I was very happy to receive a package from the one, the only, Tea Monkey Secret Pal Extraordinaire... Daniella! :) She has been a kind, thoughtful, supportive and very generous Secret Pal. Me and my pooches have taken a real liking to her!!!

For our Red, White and Blue theme month she sent a darling navy blue sundress that was inspired by bandannas, an adorable onesie that says "Mom thinks she's in charge" and one pair each of sweet red, white and blue socks. Daniella has great taste and a great sense of humor too - I have loved getting to know her these last three months and know a new friendship is budding. Thank you so much for everything!

Many Thanks....

2007-07-29T17:25:00.000-07:00

To my secret pal. I hope when she returns from vacation she will reveal herself to me. This month was full of fun things again. For the red white and blue theme Diana got socks. She also got her the Baby Einstein Lullaby CD(I know I will listen this with her all the time while rocking her to sleep). We also received a cute pair of sunglasses and cute little headbands. She got us some Princess disposable plates, bowls and silverware. I am sure those will come in handy while visiting friends and family.

Thank you so much fore spoiling me these past few months. It was always so much fun to open a package from you!

Lisa

Red, white, and too cute!

2007-07-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Heather, you've been a great SP! I love this month's package!

This little dress and shorts set is so cute ... and I love the socks! I really love baby socks ...

I don't know if you can see it really, but this is a spinner toy -- when you press down the handle, the lady bugs and butterflies spin around!

Last but not least, some practical items -- a bottle brush and a dishwasher container for bottle and sippy cup parts, which I'm sure will come in very handy!

Heather, thanks for making this so much fun!

Andrea W.

Thank you so, so much, Laura!!

2007-07-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

I received a package yesterday from my secret pal, Laura, and it made my day! Thank you so much for all the wonderful things. I love the cute little white outfit - so sweet. The tiara will look beautiful on our princess! Her first dress up item! The cloth book is too cute and I just know Sophie will absolutely love it. Thanks for the yummy "red, white and blue" goodies you included - we will all enjoy them!

Thank you, Laura, for all your kind supportive words and friendship these last three months! I have really enjoyed having you as my secret pal and I know that we will continue to be friends during this crazy wait. I have been very lucky!

Love,
Terri

Thank you is not enough......

2007-07-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

I have the most thoughtful, lovely, wonderful secret pal!!! Words cannot describe how heartfelt this months gifts were. My pal sent me a "Lilly Box", the most beautiful assortment of personalized gifts for our daughter. There was a super soft and very cute taggie blanket and ball, a beautiful pillow case, a bib that said "I love my ge ge", darling bloomers with ladybugs, a red keepsake box, red ladybug goodies from Gymboree, and Vanilla scented botanical. The most wonderful part of all of this, is that most of it was hand- made by my pal! Everything was stitched with love! To see "Lilly" so beautifully embroidered on things brought me to tears. I was beyond thrilled, and deeply moved. Thank you so so so much. You are absolutely wonderful.

love, Ashley

Special Pal You Rock.......

2007-07-13T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hmm that special pal of mine struck again.

I received a Patriotic Bag full of Goodies.

Inside was three pairs of socks Red ,White and Blue.

A Baby Einstein DVD .

A Book about a Panda .

A much needed Sun Protection Blue Hat.

2 Beautiful Dresses that Mila will look like a Sassy little Fire Cracker In.

And Adorable matching Hair Clips .

And your ever thoughtful and encouraging Notes.

Thank You Soooo Much Secret Pal for all of your spoiling.

You will be in my Heart.....

xoxo Dee

UPDATE......

The Lovely Ashley was My Secret Pal Thanks Again.

Bathing Beauty!

2007-07-12T17:51:00.001-07:00

Baby's going to be so pretty in her swim suit!!! I can't wait to take her swimming! And for mommy, some beautiful notecards with pressed flowers in them. Also we got a sippy cup with NC on it -- is this a clue, SP?

Thanks so much SP for a wonderful gift!!!

Andrea W.

Many Thanks!

2007-07-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much to my secret pal! This time around she got us such cute stuff again. We got the cutest bathing suit I have ever seen & a cover up with butterflies on it (of course). We also got a t-shirt, beach ball and everything was tucked into a sand bucket that is shaped like a sand castle.

We can't wait to be able to take Diana to the beach so she can use all these cute things. Your thoughtfulness is much appreciated as we continue on this long journey to our daughter.

Lisa

Thanks to our secret pal!

2007-07-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

We loved our gifts! Everything is so thoughtful and fun. It makes me so eager to see our sweet baby! Having this group sure makes the wait a bit easier! We are so thankful to have our new friends to share this experience with!

Thank you again and we can't wait to find out who is spoiling us!

Love in Christ,
Tammy
http://www.ourchinagiftfromgod.blogspot.com/

Secret Pal Wonderful-ness

2007-07-02T06:37:00.000-07:00

My secret pal really outdid herself this time!! A box arrived full of fun, wonderful treasures for our little girl - so many that I couldn't fit them all in the frame of the picture (still getting the hang of our new digital camera).

My favorite part was the socks in the upper left corner - one pair says "I want to rock and roll", and another pair declares "and potty all night". I can't help but smile every time I look at them - they just crack me up. I hope our daughter enjoys them as much as I do.

Thank you so much for all of the incredible gifts you sent - as always, you are just a generous, thoughtful pal, and we're so lucky to have you in our lives!

Heather in AZ

Fun in the Sun and then some!

2007-06-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

WOW! I received my Fun in the Sun package today and my socks (flip flops) are knocked off! Look at all this amazing stuff, my pal is so thoughtful and generous, not to mention she has an amazing taste level! :)

Where to start??? For moi, a gorgeous lavender tote with beach ball tag and amazing smelling Lemon Martini candle. I will soak in my tub tonight after Jazzercise and light that right up! For moi and hubster - mojito mix! We will enjoy those in the pool this weekend. For our baby girl - not one, not two, but three adorable outfits:

Watermelon onesie that says "Sweet" with matching socks

Duckie hooded bath robe and towel - I love ducks!

Pink butterfly pool robe with matching sun hat

She also sent a Baby Einstein CD with lullabies that I can't wait to play for our baby!

My lovie Pal also remembered my four legged babies once again and BOY are they THRILLED! They each got their own carton of Milk and Cookies treats. Here is a picture of them chowing down. I told them "You guys are so-o-o-o-o spoiled!" and they replied "Mmm hmmmm, what's your point?". ;)

Thank you Secret Pal, this has been such a fun experience for me and I sincerely appreciate all you do for me and my family!!!

Thanks Secret Pal

2007-06-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

You made my day! I received such wonderful gifts in my "Fun In The Sun" package. The picture really doesn't do it justice. Your note was so thoughtful, and I loved the beach scene photo. My pal even wrapped the gifts and added handmade letters, spelling out our daughter's name. Inside was the CUTEST bathing suit (it has ruffles!) and matching cover-up from Gymboree. A Pool Party Fun Set that included a beach towel, a sun hat, shades, and a shovel. I'm ready for the beach, and our little one is going to look like a million bucks! As if that wasn't enough, she sent a lavender (my favorite scent) Hatbox filled with soap, shower gel, body lotion, and soap leaves. Thank you so much for everything. Your gifts are wonderful, and so are you!!

Ashley

Ooh La La .Girls just wanna have fun

2007-06-15T10:08:00.000-07:00

My Special Pal sent us the coolest most baby glam box.

Inside was a cool bag of boats(I think I'm gonna have hard time keeping away from Hubby)

The Cutest little Beanie Baby in a swimsuit with a beach ball and sandals just waiting to make Mila Smile.

And a Luscious green Gymboree box filled with a tangerine swimsuit and watermelon sun hat and matching sun glasses and hair swirls.

Hmm I think she should be on the runway instead of the beach,

And a words of wisdom and strength book mark.

Thank You so much Special Pal you Rock .....

xoxo Dee

SP Strikes again...

2007-06-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you Secret Pal!!!! Yesterday all within one hour, our Fedex and UPS drivers came knockin'. First package - a wonderful Ladybug Board Game. We love our board games - started playing them with Joseph as young as 2 - can't wait for Mimi to be home to play this one!!!! Second, Joseph's package which was an incredible Magic Set by Melissa and Doug We love their stuff - We've been buying their puzzles, band in a box, wooden food, etc. since Joseph was a baby - I'm so glad to see they are doing all sorts of wonderful things like this Magic set as well. My Secret Pal is so thoughtful and generous - Thank you again SP - your timing, by the way, is impeccable!!!!

Worth the wait!

2007-06-13T16:17:00.000-07:00

My SP aid my May package was heavy and was coming by the slow boat, but it was very worth the wait! There was a beautiful Chinese cookbook, full color glossy with history etc. on the recipes, some beautiful chopsticks, spoons for Baby, and a lovely recipe box! Guess I'll have to start cooking! I wonder if it has a recipe for congee . . .

Thank you SP!

Andrea W.

What a great pal I have!

2007-06-12T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today we received a great "Fun in the Sun" package! My SP is a very crafty person. She made the cutest card with stick-on flip-flops and a lunch box decorated with "Beach fun" stick-ons. Inside the lunch box ~~is delicious~~ was delicious crunchy peanut butter and chewy banana candy. Yum! The whole family partook!

Also included was the sweetest bunny wearing a cherry sundress. The pink sunsuit and matching sunglasses also have cherries, and Sophie and her bunny will look so cute together. I just love the little frog, ladybug and butterfly hair clippies. I can't wait to do her hair! The cucumber melon bath gel and body lotion & the scented lip balms are going to the beach with me next week! I have dibs on the grapefruit, coconut, peach and raspberry! The boys also picked out their favorites.

Thanks again to my awesome Pal!!

Terri

Thanks Secret Pal

2007-06-07T07:26:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we received a wonderful surprise from Mr. UPS man - My very thoughtful Secret Pal sent us a Puzzle Lover gift bag - Inside the great tote bag was 8 Crossword puzzle books, a coffee mug, some coffee, shortbread and pencils - This is such an incredible package and we are all looking forward to starting on these. Thank you for your thoughtfulness - this is going to be so much fun on our boat trip. Thanks again SP! I can't upload a picture for some reason.

My Secret Pal Rocks!!

2007-06-06T17:30:00.001-07:00

I just have to shout out a huge THANK YOU to my pal for sending the most incredible gift. Since I don't have a digital camera yet, a description of the goodies will have to do.

My pal sent fun Asian cartoon stationery, including cards, papers and sticker (I love stickers even though I never know what to do with them!). Adding a little "taste of China" to the package were packets of Chinese spices, and a really neat box containing a "takeout for two" kit, complete with recipes and mini-chopsticks.

Our little one will be dressed in style in her new purple feathered tiara and cute printed bib, and she'll be wrapped up in luxury in her incredibly soft new blanket.

Let's see - have I forgotten anything? Ah, yes - a Dora the Explorer doll (which, btw, is the first toy we've received!), a great sippy cup, a wonderful scented candle...it truly was like Christmas as Damon and I pored through the treasures in the box.

Thank you so much for being such a thoughtful pal, and more importantly, such a good friend!! We feel so spoiled!

Heather

Secret Pal Has Struck.....

2007-06-01T15:42:00.000-07:00

I got home today to find a package from my secret pal. It was all things butterflies for Diana's room. There was a butterfly toy with crinkle wings and plays music and lights up when you press his belly. There was the cutest handmade butterfly picture frame that I think I will put our first family picture in. There was also a butterfly accent piece and a wonderful smelling lavender/mint candle for me! Thank you so much Secret Pal for brightening up my Friday! We love everything!

Lisa

Taste of China Extra Special Package!!!

2007-05-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posting, I was on vacation and then got hit with a very serious GI virus. :(

Needless to say, this very special package helped to cheer me right up and has inspired me to get my strength back so I could share my fabulous goodies! My very thoughtful Secret Pal included treats for me, my baby girl and three pooches...

For me - an adorable custom made apron and Chinese cookbook (hubbie is all over this already!). For baby girl - a super cute sundress with matching bloomers and sweet bib asking "Got Congee?" - I laughed out loud! And for the pooches - stuffed toys and fortune cookie treats. They asked me if we could keep this pal forever and were very sad when I told them "No, but let's enjoy her while we can!'. :)

My Secret Pal is also becoming a dear friend and has been very thoughtful and consistent in her communications with me - much appreciated and I look forward to getting to know her even better.

Secret Pal Gifts for the May Theme

2007-05-26T13:37:00.001-07:00

Thank you secret pal for the great gifts! I have been wanting some new Toddler sets and haven't broken down and bought any yet. Now you have me a great one. The formula dispenser is awesome! My friends with babies all brag about how much they use theirs! The Bibsters will be wonderful for family outings especially camping! The food goodies were really a neat addition to the box. You really outdid yourself with the authentic Chinese goodies. I love the cookies and chocolate! Yum! Bailee was especially happy to not be left out! The cute box and candies were fun for him. He saved the box and has it on his dresser! You made our May brighter! Thanks again! You are the best!

Love in Christ,

Tammy Aldridge
http://ourchinagiftfromgod.blogspot.com/

June Theme

2007-05-24T18:33:00.001-07:00

It's that time again....

June's theme is......

Fun in the Sun!

Thank You Special Pal....

2007-05-24T17:15:00.001-07:00

Thank You Special Pal....

Well after working 10 long hard days whats better than coming home to a Goodie Box.

Inside my Box was an adorable note with a Monkey on it.
Then there was a Baby's 1st taggie Book of Patty Cake so Cute.
Then an insightful little book called DimSum good info.

2 Beautiful Pair of Chop Sticks .
A Killer CookBook for Mommy & Me in the Kichen ( I can't wait to cook with the M&M's)
And the most Loveliest Book about Chinese Culture and Holidays this book is so pretty the art work inside is amazing.

Well what can I say about you Special Pal besides you are so thoughtful and appreciated.

Thank You.
xoxo Dee

My Secret Pal - UPDATE!!!!

2007-05-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

Well as if the wonderful gifts we received yesterday weren't enough - today's mail bought the most delicious gift for Joe and I (and Joseph's making his way through it too) See for yourself in the pics above - I'm enjoying a Bubble Gum cigarette as I blog - I can't believe what is in this box - Wax bottles, bottlecaps, Wink soda, Charleston Chew - just to name a few - there is so much more!!! Hope I didn't get anybody hungry. Thank you so much SP what an awesome treat to come home too!

Thank You Secret Pal!

2007-05-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

I was treated to such wonderful gifts from my secret pal! My "Taste of China" package included the following: a very thoughtful and lovely letter, my very first pair of squeaky shoes (adorable white sandals with pink butterflies), training chopsticks and spoon set (so cute, and they are pink), Chinese paper cuts (beautiful works of art on very delicate paper), Quilt of Wishes book (I've been wanting this book, it is such a sweet story), and a beautiful dress from Gymboree (this makes my heart melt).

Secret Pal, your gifts meant so much to me. Thank you so much for everything, and for being a part of our journey. You are wonderful!

Thank you Secret Pal ~

2007-05-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

Today we came home to a big ol' package on our step. What fun we had opening it - everything was so beautifully wrapped that I didn't even want to open it - well I did want to open it really badly but it really was beautiful. Inside our package was the most precious tea set for Mimi - that plays I'm a Little Teacup - the first thing Joseph said was "that was the song I loved when I was a baby". Yes it was, every morning Joe would make tea and when the tea pot went off, we would sing that song. We are so looking forward to Mimi having tea parties with this awesome set. Joseph was happy as a clam that he received 2 packages - K'nex Safari and K'nexosauros. Perfect gifts for him - he is such a builder and loves this type of toy. He actually doesn't have any K'nex so we are looking forward to starting these tomorrow. Thank you so much Secret Pal for spoiling us with this wonderful package and for all the great e-cards I have received this month. It's been fun getting to know you - whoever you are :)

Ooooh!

2007-05-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

Looks like May Secret Pal packages have started making their way to mailboxes across the country - It's so fun to see pictures of everyone's thoughtful gifts!

Keep those packages and posts coming (oh, and stay tuned - the theme for June is coming soon!)

Thank you, secret pal!!

2007-05-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

I received the coolest package from my secret pal! The brown onesie with "crawl" on the back and matching hairbow are so sweet and I cannot wait to see them on our little girl! I love the pink brocade tote and can't wait to use it. My secret pal also sent Sophie two cute little chinese rubber duckies to play with in the tub and a sweet little stuffed panda. The pretty chinese chopsticks and bookmark will definitely be used. We eat a lot of Chinese food and do a lot of reading at our house!

Thank you, secret pal - You are awesome!! What a way to start my week!

Terri

May Theme

2007-04-21T15:46:00.000-07:00

Matches for Round #2 of the Secret Pal Exchange will be coming out in the next day or two.

In the meantime, here's the theme for May, so you can get your creative juices flowing.

.............Taste of China............

This theme may be interpreted as literally or as figuratively as you like - recipes, chopsticks, teas, mealtime for baby, etc.

Enjoy!

Thank You Andrea W

2007-04-20T05:55:00.000-07:00

So I was Andrea W's secret pal. I get home today and there is a small box with Andrea's return address. When I opened the box and saw the most beautiful hand knit sweater for Diana. In her note she says that she decided that this was for baby Diana. It really made my day! Also she included an emergency chocolate bar. Trust me I will use it accordingly!

I never knew that I would really meet so many wonderful people just by joining a secret pal swap! I loved round one and can't wait to get started on round two.

Andrea-I know we have become lifelong friends. Thank you soooo much for spoiling me after I was the one to spoil you!

Lisa

Round #2 Supplemental Questionnaire

2007-04-17T18:13:00.000-07:00

Send the answers my way to complete your signup for Round #2 of the Secret Pal Exchange...

1. Do you celebrate Holidays? If so, which ones? (Easter, Kwanza, Christmas, Boxing Day, etc.)

2. Ladybugs - Love 'em or hate 'em?

3. What's your absolute all time favorite food? Can you get it where you live? If not, where's it from?

4. Name one thing you want your pal to know about you.

You are so Welcome.....

2007-04-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

Robin,

I have loved being your secret pal.

Please try and relax tax seasons almost over.

stay in touch.

xoxo Dee Kelley

My Last Secret Pal Gift!

2007-04-10T04:24:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my secret pal! She has taken very good care of me over the last three months. This last gift was very fun. A few weeks ago she sent an "Amazing Message Plant". The directions say that when the plant grows, it will reveal a message!

Yesterday we received a sweet Easter themed gift that included a sweet & adorable dress, The Velveteen Rabbit, jelly beans and cute barrettes. The card said that I should have figured out who my secret pal was through the prior gift (amazing message plant). I realized then that I had been lazy (or nauseous from the pregnancy!!) and not planted the plant yet! Needless to say, I rushed to it and followed the directions! I assume it will reveal a name. I am so sorry I didn't do that before. Your fun idea is great!

I can't wait to find out who my pal has been. She has treated me well. The gifts have been adorable and fun, and she has sent me numerous encouraging emails. Her time, effort, and thoughtfulness are so very appreciated. This exchange was lots of fun! I enjoyed being Lisa's pal as well!

Many thanks,

Rebecca

Splendid Surprise from My Secret Pal - Kathy Taylor!

2007-04-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

Kathy Taylor has once again outdone herself! She has been so generous and has impeccable taste. This last package contained a gorgeous Laura Ashley dress, ladybug barrettes and sunglasses and loads of chocolate Easter candy. Thank you Kathy for all these wonderful presents!

I have had the privilege of getting to know Kathy and I am impressed and amazed at how she juggles a demanding high profile career and raising a family so successfully! She is an inspiration to me and is one of the most humble people I have ever met. Although I am losing her as a pal, I will keep her forever as a friend. :)

I was a secret pal to Kathy Taylor

2007-03-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

OOPS, forgot to mention that I was a secret pal to Kathy Taylor ~ I hope she enjoyed my gifts to her ~ She did write to thank me a couple of times ~ Life got kinda busy for me in March... my boys always helped me find gifts for you! Have a great Spring!

My Secret Pal was Denise Woolley

2007-03-28T08:31:00.000-07:00

Denise was my secret pal and she was the BEST...She sent me emails, extra gifts and was very thoughtful with all the gifts and also VERY generous! The first gift I received was an extra special one because it was a CD of my favorite Christian band, Newsboys... it is one I did not have and it is now my FAVORITE and also my boys' favorite CD too... We are on Spring break this week and we have been listening to this CD NON-STOP... I LOVE IT. I am a music person so when I hear songs I can't help but dance and I've been dancing around in my van with this CD...Here is the picture of the last box I received from Denise.... AGAIN, so generous and I LOVED EVERYTHING! THANKS DENISE.... I hope you got spoiled and pampered like me.

The End of Round #1

2007-03-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

Round #1

Well, it's that time, folks....Round #1 of our Secret Pal Exchange is coming to an end. If you haven't sent your final "reveal" gift out to your pal, please do so this week.

Here's how it went.....

From what you've shared with me...some of you had a great Secret Pal experience, and some of you didn't. I heard from at least one person who didn't receive a gift, and several who hardly ever heard from their pals.

One thing that struck me the most was that those folks who had the most fun didn't necessarily get the most or the "best" gifts. Instead, they heard from their pals consistently, whether through e-mails or cards or comments on their blog. For a secret pal exchange to be sucessful, it's so important to be - well - involved. Take the time to get to know your pal. If circumstances arise and your life is super crazy - tell her. Let her know that even though you don't have time to write her a life story, you made the time to at least say hi.

Being a good pal is more than just sending a gift every 30 days. Please consider sitting out the next round if you don't feel you can commit to contacting your pal every week or so to see how their life is going. Everyone deserves a good, committed pal. Enough said.

Round #2

Round #2 will start May 1. Signup questionnaires will go out April 1, and signups will be from April 5 through April 20 (no gift exchange in April).

I think it might be fun to let folks choose who they'd like to spoil (anonymously, of course). If you'd like to be someone's pal, please let me know. It will work on a first come, first served basis, so please be understanding if you don't get your first choice. If you don't have someone in mind, not a problem - we'll match you up as we did for Round #1. I'm also looking for a volunteer to help moderate the exchange.

Lastly, if you have any feedback to improve the Secret Pal exchange - please share!! This is our group, and input is always welcomed.

All done now.

Heather in AZ

What an Amazing Pal you are Andrea Y.....

2007-03-26T10:44:00.000-07:00

I just received my secret pal box and I was so excited to see it when i drove up that I actually fell up the stairs tryingto get in the house.

Clumsyness aside I tore open the box to find the cutest stuffed pink pig ,that is actually a hand puppet that makes the funniest oinking noises.

This will be great for distracting Mila when I need too and annoying hubby (see double duty)
J/K Hubby.
An adorable package of sparkly fun hair ties.

A 100 good wishes diaper bag that was just over so heart felt it brought me to tears...

A pretty chinese wind chime that I just hung on my patio outside Mila's Nursery and as always a card with a loving note of friendship.

Andrea Y , I may have guessed it was you correctly but you wrote everytime Ihear the chimes to think of our children.

I will but I will also think of you ''My Dear Special Pal''........
Thank You for Everthing.XOXO

Dee Kelley
DH Rob

My Secret Pal is Terri!

2007-03-25T17:38:00.000-07:00

My secret pal Terri has been so thoughtful and has sent the

most amazing gifts. This month I received adoption books,

Boyd bear fleece blanket(LOVE IT)!!! and last but not least

Terri remembered my three girls and made them each

a beautiful ladybug bracelet. I will truly miss having you

as my Secret Pal. The next person to be matched with you

will really be blessed. Thanks so much for your friendship.

My Secret Pal is Theresa!

2007-03-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

I have been SO spoiled the last three months by my wonderful SP Theresa! I had some very good clues and sort of figured it out but was very happily surprised today when I came home to a big brown box on the front step. I must admit that I cried when I opened the box - even before getting to the gifts. Joe was with me and asked why I was crying - well it was hard to explain - it was just this overwhelming feeling of gratitude. Theresa and I "met" on the CCAI paperchase board way back in June of 06' - we shared many of our milestones together - fingerprints, bumps along the way, but eventually DTC and LID the same day. I even had the pleasure of meeting her and her wonderul husband at the CCAI Orlando reunion. Well having had Theresa as my SP was very special to me - I believe that we will travel together to meet our daughters. First thing I opened, per Theresa's instructions, was the beautiful book You're All My Favorites - inside was a touching note. Theresa, I too believe that we will be lifetime friends and forever connected. Next up, was the beautiful ladybug picture frame that we decided will be for Miranda's referral picture. We also received a Lifebook Writing Guide - this has been something I have been looking into so I can't wait to read this and begin her Lifebook. The ladybug pen was quickly taken by Joseph for his backpack to take to school tomorrow. The Treasured Traditions St. Patrick's Day photo album is great and I look forward to start some green outfit photos for this! Okay, the SHOES - They are too cute and we can't wait to see her little feet in them. The beautiful ladybug is proudly being displayed in our living room and I can't wait to try to the Gracie Spa Scrub - it smells fabulous! Last, but not least, MRK received a Ladybug discovery toy - it looks like so much fun and Joseph can't wait to play it with her ( and either can Joe & I) - Theresa, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the wonderful gifts for us and for Miranda Rae - but I am eternally grateful for the friend I have found on this journey to our daughter.

~~~Daniella

My Secret Pal is awesome!

2007-03-20T18:04:00.000-07:00

A big THANK YOU! to my secret pal...Andrea W. My March present arrived and it included a beautiful hand made LadyBug blanket for baby! The last 3 months with my pal have been great. It was really fun being pampered and pampering someone else.

Andrea Y

Thank You Rebecca!

2007-03-19T16:57:00.000-07:00

Ok so I figured it out with a little help just before the last gift arrived. I knew that my pal and I had to belong to another group besides this one just on how well she knew me. As soon as I found out that then all I did was check out the post mark and figure it out. I know I'm bad but as much as I love surprises I try to figure everything out.

Rebecca, as usual got us the best gifts. As usual she thought of my boys and got them each a three pack of POP ROCKS. They can't wait to try them after dinner tonight. For Diana she got a CD of Chinese lullaby's. I can't wait to rock Diana to sleep listening to them. She also got her this cute little flower garden that plays music. I LOVE it! I think we will have a lot of fun playing with that.

For mommy she got the cutest bug candy. It MAY be too cute too eat....Also she got me the cutest personalized luggage tag. It is black with white polka-dots with a ladybug and my name on it.

I can't begin to thank you for everything you have done these past three months! The encouraging emails, the e-cards, and of course the gifts have been so much appreciated! I will cherish all of it and think of you often.

Lisa

Thanks to my wonderful SP, Lisa!

2007-03-18T15:30:00.000-07:00

My March gifts were a wonderful finish to a wonderful experience.
On the left is a tennis racket where the ball swings around and makes noise -- I'm sure this will be a favorite! On the right is a bubble belly -- it blows bubbles for baby! I foresee this being very handy for distracting from things like nail trimming and whatnot -- I can't wait to try it out!

My favorite this month is the elephant. We're doing baby's room in an elephant theme, and this will be a wonderful addition. She is sooooooo soft and cuddly.

Last but not least, for mommy, a ladybug journal. I think I'll use this for thoughts for baby.

Thank you thank you Lisa! You have been a wonderful pal, and a good friend.

Andrea W.

My Super Tea Monkey Secret Pal (STMSP) is Kathy Taylor!

2007-03-18T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, I returned home from a very fun shopping trip with other local Families with Children from China (FCC) Moms/Waiting Moms and found a box at my front doorstep. I immediately knew my STMSP had struck again - and WHAT an amazing surprise! Look at this to die for Ladybug dress designed by the Queen of Babies in Art, Anne Geddes.

Many thanks Kathy for this fun surprise and for your gentle support and friendship. You have helped make the last 3 months fly by! :)

My Fabulous Secret Pal - Laura

2007-03-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

Thanks again for my March surprise. As usual, I loved everything! I got an adorable spring outfit for my little munchkin. I love the red flowers. The onesie is too cute, and in case you can't read what it says in the photo - " Vintage 2007 - Exceptional Year - Perfect Growing Conditions - Enjoy Contents Immediately ". My hubby thinks that is the cutest thing he's ever seen. She also sent me the awesome red baseball cap and 2 packets of heavenly smelling bath salts. I can't thank you enough for everything. You have completely spoiled me, and beyond the gifts, you have become a great friend. Thank you, Laura, for being a part of our journey. Someone out there is about to be matched with a very special secret pal.

Ashley

Test

2007-03-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

Just making sure this works. :)

Thanks to my Secret Pal!!

2007-03-14T11:16:00.000-07:00

How happy I was yesterday to see a note in my mailbox from the postman marked "Parcel at front door"! My secret pal sent a wonderful box of goodies for me to enjoy. She must have read through my blogs, because the items she sent suited me perfectly.

First out of the box - the candy - yummy sour treats and gum (I've already polished off half of it!). Then came chocolate fortune cookies (they're too pretty to eat). Moving on - she included a ball of multi-colored knitting yarn (soon to be transformed into a baby hat for our daughter).

Lastly, in the box nestled the cutest stuffed rabbit, and an accompanying book titled "Guess How Much I Love You". I have never seen this book before - the story is so sweet!

Thanks so much to my Secret Pal for such a thoughtful present. I'm glad to hear your life is calming down a bit - I hope another Tea Monkey is spoiling you as well as you are spoiling me !!

Heather in AZ

My SP is Daniella!!!

2007-03-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

I've been dying to post that since yesterday, but waited for feedback before I went ahead and blabbed. My wonderful Secret Pal (truly secret) is Daniella. She had me fooled the whole time! I won't give away her trick (and it's a good one) in case she wants to use it on her next SP. I e-mailed her privately, and she is ok with being revealed.

Yesterday we received the March package and, of course, loved everything inside! She included a very sweet boardbook called Little Panda that has velvety textures on each page. I know Sophie will love it! I can't wait to see the cute little hat, bibs, and summer outfit on her! They are just the kind of things that I would pick out myself! I love the scents of the candles in the little terracotta pots and will be using them very soon. Logan and Nathan send a big thank you for the Nerds eggs. It was so thoughtful of you to send something for them each month.

Thank you again for all our special packages and all the wonderful notes and e-cards!!!! The thoughtfulness and care you put into being my secret pal is so appreciated and I will miss having you as my secret pal. The next person to get you will be very lucky. I hope we can eventually one day meet each other in person.

Your very appreciative friend,

Terri

My gift!

2007-03-08T10:06:00.000-08:00

I got my second secret pal gifts yesterday! Yea! It is so fun to come home and see a package in the mail. My hubby gets into all of these gifts as well, so I actually let him open it when he came home.

We love the two purple onesies, cute cotton pants, socks, finger puppet, Mommies book and pretty notepad. What fun! Thanks so much secret pal. You have been so good to us.

You asked if I knew who you are. I have to admit, I have NO idea! I can't wait to find out!

Many thanks,

Rebecca (& Mark)

Beautiful and thoughtful gifts

2007-03-07T19:16:00.000-08:00

Three weeks ago we received our gifts from our secret pal. I'm so sorry it has taken me so long to post on the blog. I've had a crazy month. They gifts are perfect. They bring a smile to our faces everytime we look at them. I love everything, but the Baby Love soft book is particularly adorable. We will definitely put it in a special place in our baby's room. Our gift also included a delicious package of licorice, but it didn't make it the three weeks it took me to post.

Thanks again for being such a kind and thoughtful friend. I really appreicate all of the time, energy and love you put into every package and message you send me.

For some reason I'm not able to add a picture. I'm going to post this now and work on putting up a picture tomorrow.

Sorry!

Love,
Leigh

Thank You Special Pal.......

2007-03-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

First let me start off by saying that my box was so special that the post office didn't want to give it to me(they were after the chocolate.)

I opened a big box to find a big heart shaped valentine(already gone).

A delicious box of hot cocoa (so needed freezing in NY)

An absolutly beautiful little ski oufit by Gymboree that Mila will just look too cute in ...

And the prettiest porcelin China Doll I have ever seen(It will be in Mila's nursery and I will tell her one of her Special Aunties gave it to her).

I put her my night stand and stared at her till i fell asleep she's Amazing.

And as always a sweet card to go with it.

I just can't seem to say enough about how wonderful you are Special Pal !

You have shown me sooo much Love and Kindness and have showered me with More cards then I have ever recieved.

You have given me Tears of Joy during the Hardest times of My Life.

And I want you to know although this will be our last Month together you will always have a special place in my heart and my Home.

Thank You Always,

Dee Kelley

DH Rob

Last Gift for Round #1

2007-03-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder - by now you should have sent your pal two gifts, and be working on the final "reveal" gift for Round #1. If you haven't heard from your pal or your SP experience isn't what you hoped it would be, and need me or Theresa to check into it, please let us know. Hope you are all having fun!

Heather in AZ

Conversion to New Blogger

2007-02-26T16:15:00.000-08:00

Well, folks - I couldn't stave it off any longer. Blogger forced me to convert this blog to the new version. I apologize to all those folks who will have to create a new Blogger ID!!

Everything seems to be working as usual, so please let me know if you have any problems posting. Thanks!

Heather in AZ

I love my gifts!!

2007-02-22T18:33:00.000-08:00

Thank you soooo much Secret Pal! Whoever has me is really spoiling me. She has even been thoughtful enough to get my boys each a M&M guy filled with mini m&ms. They say "Thank you Mommy's secret pal." Diana got the cutest little shirt that says love on it plus two packages of bibs with ladybugs, flowers and other cute patterns. She also got two packages of onesies with hearts, ladybugs etc.....too cute. Every time I dress Diana in these I will think of you my friend. Also for me: yummy chocolates. DH has already told me I better hide them...don't worry I will! Thanks again Secret Pal! Your truly are the best!!

Lisa

Thanks again secret pal!!

2007-02-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say thanks again for my most fabulous Feb. gifts! You are so thoughtful. First, I received a beautiful, custom made tote with my name on it. As if that wasn't enough, the next day arrived a box full of valentine goodies. I love the ladybug outfit and can't wait until my bundle of love is wearing it. The piggybank with hearts on it is already in her room. The gift bag (so cute) was filled with yummy white chocolate covered fortune cookies (not pictured because I already ate them), beautiful chopsticks, sweet stuffed panda, chinese rubber duckies, and heart shaped cards. I hope I didn't leave anything out. Secret pal, you are the best and I am so very lucky!
Ashley

THANKS SECRET PAL,

2007-02-15T17:19:00.000-08:00

Thank you secret pal for all the wonderful gifts. You are always so
thoughtful. My girls loved their Valentine's/Chinese New Year
goodie bags. The pancake mix and maple syrup will be enjoyed
by everyone. The chocolate covered fortune cookies were so good!
The CNY ornaments are beautiful, and I really love the adoption
books you sent. I even loved the beautiful wrapping paper!
Thanks so much for your kindness.
Love,
Karen & family

Thank You Secret Pal!

2007-02-15T17:10:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much for the Valentine's Day surprise! The sweet Valentine's Day card and e-card are so appreciated.

The sweet princess photo frames and ladybug photo album are awesome! I can't wait to have photos of our Sophie to put in them. I love the girly washclothes. The chocolates are almost gone already - I am so bad! One of the adorable "little princess" teddy blankies will be going to China in one of Sophie's care packages. I love that there is a match if one gets lost or damaged.

Logan and Nathan send a Thank You for the Spongebob Valentine candies. It's so sweet of you to remember them. They get as excited as I do when we see a box on the steps. You are awesome!

Terri

Thank you to my Secret Pal!!!!

2007-02-13T17:37:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful Valentines Day eve for us here in sunny Florida! We came home to a wonderful package that was so incredible that thank you doesn't seem enough! Secret Pal, you are so thoughtful and so much thought goes in to your gifts that it brings tears to my eyes. We all arrived home together and saw the package on the front porch and we had such a good time opening it and Ms. Boo got to join in on the fun as well. Let me start with the fact that we all got chocolate kisses - yeah, we love chocolate and there were chocolate Twizzlers also - half the bag is gone already! In each package with our kisses there were red thread bracelets for each of us - this was a very touching and special moment for us to all tie them on each other. Joseph said, he will not take his off until MRK comes home - Joe and I felt the same way! I got a special treat of wonderful creams and bubble bath - love it all, can't wait to use them! Joseph was more than estatic that he now has an "expecting a lil sis from China 2007" t-shirt - I don't know how I'm getting it off him tomorrow for school!! Joe loved, loved, loved the "I Love Daddy" bib - too cute!!!! Now for MRK, the "my first doll" is awesome and so soft, definitely coming to China with us - the monkey socks - oh my goodness, where did you find them!!!! Those are her first socks, by the way! The books are so great and went straight on MRK's book shelf, after we read them first ! We also used the valentines stamps to make some Valentine cards tonight and look forward to using them with MRK - maybe next Valentines day? Let's hope :) Secret Pal, you are awesome and have made the last 2 months so special - thank you from the bottom of our hearts - enjoy the slide show!
Daniella, Joe, Joseph & Ms. Boo....
PS - I made a slide show with rock you but it won't let me post it here b/c we are not using the "new blogger" - hmmm... Go to my blog to see my awesome gifts.... www.kowalskijourney.blogspot.com
Daniella

Thanks Secret Pal!

2007-02-13T15:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks Secret Pal Leslie!

It was so fun to have a little Valentine's surprise. We loved the book (it has lights and music and everything) -- it is so cute! The Valentine doggy is darling, and it's sooooo soft. I know baby is going to have fun with that one. The scrapbook stickers will be sure to find a good home too in baby's book. I think I'll save them for the trip to China section -- let it be soon! And finally, a little something for mommy is always nice, especially when its chocolate!
-- Andrea W.

Thanks Secret Pal

2007-02-13T09:24:00.000-08:00

I recieved the most beautiful, custom made, tote from my secret pal! Thank you so so much. I absolutely adore it. I will post a picture soon. Thanks again, you are the best!
Love, Ashley

Friendship

2007-02-06T11:20:00.000-08:00

"Friends are not an opportunity - but a sweet responsibility."

I read this quote a while back and it has stuck with me ever since. The idea of having a responsibility to cherish those that are close to you resonated with me, especially now.

To say that I am overwhelmed by the surprise this group put together for me is an understatement. I was moved to tears by each card I read, and the gifts were more than generous and very, very appreciated. I am ever so thankful to have each and every one of you in my life. (My kitties are, too - the toys they received are making a strange apartment seem a little more like home for them). Thanks, also to Laura for all of your work putting this together.

Although we've had a bumpy go of it lately, I feel like such a lucky woman to have such great friends, indeed. You all touched my heart in a way that words seem inadequate to explain. A huge, heartfelt "thank you" will have to do!!

What a pal!

2007-02-05T12:17:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to my wonderful secret pal! I arrived home today to some very fun mail! I absolutely love the little pink sweater with the panda in the pocket. It is beyond adorable, and I can't wait to see Claire wearing it! I also love lullabies, and am excited to have my first Baby Einstein item.

It has been a few hours since I opened the mail, and one of these fabulous items is already gone. Can you guess which one?!

A million thanks to my very special secret pal. You have treated me well. Thanks for commenting on my blog as well. It is always fun to know someone has been checking in!

Love,

Rebecca

Heather's Surprise

2007-02-03T17:57:00.000-08:00

I took great joy in surprising Heather with gifts from her Tea Monkey pals! These pictures are from our visit today, we met at the investment house my husband and I are renovating and flipping, that's why there's construction type stuff in some of the photos. Her house is being actively worked on.

To say she was overwhelmed with gratitude is an understatement. It's so lovely to be part of this group! :) We were both impressed by such creativity and generosity!!!

My Secret Pal Rocks!

2007-01-31T14:51:00.000-08:00

I'm trying to get the digital camera from my sister to take pictures of the cool stuff my secret pal sent me. In the meantime, I'll describe the goodies that brightened my day.

I received a pair of adorable booties that I cannot believe anyone's feet are small enough to fit into, two bibs that made me giggle with the slogans. A pink hairbow that I hope my future daughter lets me put in her hair. I love that stuff. :)

The best part is a Dora the Explorer doll in a Chinese outfit with a friendship bracelet, just like in the video. My niece made me watch the Dora All Around the World video recently and kept pointing out how they went to see China. She kept telling me, "That is where your baby is coming from! Maybe she knows Dora!" I had better hide this doll away until my child gets here or she might disappear!

I've been crazy with work and I really appreciate the cards and gifts from my secret pal. Thank you!

Robin

I have the Most Thoughful Secret Pal....

2007-01-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

I wanted to say Thank You for all that you do.

After being forced out of my house during Christmas eve and forced to find a new place to live during the Holidays.

Which I can tell you is enough to to drive you tears daily.

You have been my shining star secret pal.
You didn't even know my situation, But all your cards have been the only highlight of my day.

I wish i could share pictures with you all of the lovely hot pink scarf and beautiful picture of a chinese zodiac coin and chinese writing behind it, and a card that made me cry.

It is just Stunning and I'm sure will look amazing in my new home.

My camera is somewhere buried in storage bin but when i can find it i will post.

I also wanted to Thank : Andrea Wan/Brenda Stevens/Andrea Yochum for the Squishes and sentiments.

And I wanted to say to Heather, boy do I understand and you and your family are in my prayers....

XOXO Dee
DH Rob
LID 10/09/06

Lookie, lookie!!!

2007-01-25T10:56:00.000-08:00

Lookie what my Super Tea Monkey Secret Pal (STMSP) sent me today! The most ADORABLE hand made card and an unbelievably stunning Chinese New Year Doll (strong resemblance to moi, heh, heh)! The card has a little monkey with eyes that move and the tea bag looks real!! WOW! SO creative and fun! Xie xie! I LOVE the doll and will treasure the card forever! :)

MY SECRET PAL ROCKS!

2007-01-25T09:23:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to my secret pal! It was so nice to walk up to my smoky doorstep and see a package sitting on the mat. Getting a gift from my pal was just the day brightener I needed :-)

I don't have access to a camera right now to take pictures, so a description of my goodies will have to do...my pal sent two books describing Chinese New Year customs (one geared towards younger children for now, and one for older children for later), a gorgeous Chinese paper lantern, and two beautiful ornaments - one with lucky coins, and a blown glass one depicting a traditional Chinese dress.

These are gifts my daughter will treasure for a lifetime - as will I!! Thank you so much!

Heather in AZ
www.hopesglow.blogspot.com

thanks again, secret pal!

2007-01-23T15:12:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to show off my secret pal gifts - you are so thoughtful! The homemade blanket and fairy princess bear are priceless. All that's missing from the photo are the yummy starbucks I've enjoyed compliments of my gift card. Thanks again.
Ashley

Thanks a bunch!!

2007-01-22T17:59:00.000-08:00

My secret pal is awesome! I got the softest, warmest prettiest blanket for Diana. Diana also got three pairs of warm socks. Mommy got warm socks as well. Since winter finally seems to have kicked in here in Illinois they will keep my toes toasty warm. Thank you sooo much sercet pal! You are the best!!

Lisa G.

I have the best secret pal!

2007-01-22T13:05:00.000-08:00

THANK YOU so much, secret pal, for everything! The pink girlie overall bag is too cute! And you bought her first booties. I can't help but just hold them. My boys can tell you I am very much a foot tickler. The panda bear is precious - another first! The "faith" ornament was a very thoughtful gift and will be on our tree this year. My absolute favorite was the unique cookie cutters - China and a Ladybug! And you included cookie mix and decorating icing with them! There's nothing I love more than baking with my little guys! I can't wait to bake with my daughter - the thought brings tears to my eyes. I can see her in her little apron learning to stir the batter. I will post a picture of our cookie masterpieces.

It was so thoughful of you to include something for Logan and Nathan too! The Chewbacca pez were a big hit. The 3-D insect puzzles are at this minute being assembled. They send a big thank you!

Many thanks to my secret pal

2007-01-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

I love my gifts! I don't think the picture does them justice. The snuggly one piece bear suit is so sweet and precious. It makes me smile everytime I look at it. The bear feet and ears are adorable. The hat, gloves, and the little bear are perfect.

2007-01-19T15:43:00.000-08:00

Secret Pal for Karen Mansell,

Thank you so much for all of my gifts. The teddy bear, hat and mittens,
teddy bear slippers, hot chocolate and beautiful card are so appreciated.
I absolutely love everything. I can't wait to see our child in the red
hat and mittens, I know it will be adorable on her. Again, thank you so much!!!

Love,
Karen

photos

2007-01-18T18:26:00.000-08:00

I hope this doesn't come through twice, but when I tried to add this to my previous post it didn't seem to work...

Here are photos of the wonderful stuff from my secret pal:

This one is very appropriate since we used to live in Alaska!

I love the puppy hat! I tried to take a photo on the knob at the bottom of our bannister, but it was too dark :-(

And here's the beautiful card -- I wish the photo were better, but it was sort of hard to do...

Thank you secret pal!

Andrea W

Thank you Leslie!

2007-01-18T14:43:00.000-08:00

I just got a wonderful package today! How darling! I love the hat and mittens. And the card!!! (For everyone else, "Leslie" is my SP's Clark Kent name...)

Here are photos:
This one is very appropriate since we used to live in Alaska!

I love the puppy hat! I tried to take a photo on the knob at the bottom of our bannister, but it was too dark :-(

And here's the beautiful card -- I wish the photo were better, but it was sort of hard to do...

Thank you secret pal!

Andrea W