At first glance, the vast majority of people double take when seeing parents with children of a different race. Although now a days it's becoming more common. Regardless, I still get that look when first introducing my parents to someone new. It seems to take a second to sink in and then [lightbulb] "oh she must be adopted." [applause] Yes, indeed I am. A brief summary of that is explained here, if you're interested in catching up on that.
Moving forward, along with my celebration of birth, my parents also celebrate the day they brought me home. 1...2...3... awwwww. :) It's quite a special day, as it's known for in fact. We call it "My Special Day". Dad pops in the video and we watch the old footage of when they finally placed me into my parents' arms after several patient months of waiting. It gets us everytime. Seeing myself introduced to my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, it's really something else. Sharing it with my own children is something special, too. Although they're much to young to understand it now, they will someday.
Even though the focus of today is celebrating my arrival, it's also a celebration of God's master planning. He always knows what He's doing, and that day He brought me to a family, to a life that was much more than I could have ever imagined.
A bloodline couldn't define our family anymore than what we are today. They are all that I know and I am so very lucky to have them.
Well we have managed to survive our first week at home! If you read the end of my last post, you'd understand what I mean by survive.
This past week has reiterated the importance of managing time, but most importantly dividing that time between two kids and a husband.
Another thing I learned is that a mother's love has no limits when it comes to her family. Although at times my heart seems like it could burst! I have been overwhelmed with emotions, both good and bittersweet.
My daughter has been an only child for four years, and now she has to share her time with another; as do we now as parents of two. Our son is an incredible gift to our family, but we have done our best to not overlook Audriana's needs among the changes. I have to credit our extended families as well, spending extra time with Audriana and/or showering her with "big sister" gifts. She certainly hasn't felt like she's lost her spotlight; not that it's even remotely possible with that girl.
These next years ahead of us are going to be quite the adventure. I'm anxious for the milestones of our new son, and to witness the relationship between him and Audriana. I grew up an only child, so the friendships and bonds between siblings have always fascinated me. I'm blessed to at least enjoy those moments through my own children now.
Lastly, I have to acknowledge my inability to do any of this without my dear husband. With a few things left to finish in the nursery, the chaos approached us quickly when our son decided he wanted to get here in the middle of the night - TWO WEEKS EARLY. Yet, Chris managed to get everything together while I rested at the hospital and take care of all things I'd be unable to do once we were back home. Even with a hectic [end of the year] work week, Chris stayed around the house to make sure we were all taken care of. Whether it was fixing us breakfast, dinner, or simply waking up with me at night just to let me know he was there if I needed him... [tears commencing] ...I feel so blessed to have him as my husband. Words couldn't express just how incredible he is.
God continues to shower us with so much love, and there is no where else I'd rather be than in this moment.
Continuing where we left off, I'm beginning to miss the morning air of New York City. Who am I kidding, no I'm not... the air? It was terrible. BUT in a strange way, I do miss the hustle and bustle just a liiiiiitttle bit. It's not my ideal family vacation, but it was a nice change in scenery. Always refreshing!
Day Three:
Here we began our first full day of NO WORK (for Chris), just the two of us! I had patience going into this, knowing it was a work trip, but it was worth celebrating when he could put that ol' lap top aside.
We finished up in the fitness center around 10am, and got ready for the day. Knowing the way to my heart, my dear husband asked the concierge recommendations to the best sushi place in town. So for lunch, we headed to a place called, Haru.
Very eclectic, seeming to be the trend in NYC. I was immediately drawn to the abundance of bamboo, used to divide the floor levels. I'm easily amused, but it was still a neat embellishment.
For myself, I had a basic Shrimp Tempura roll, along side some Cucumber rolls. Keeping it light. We usually eat ourselves into a coma when it comes to sushi dates, so I thought I'd played it safe given it was only 2pm. Chris on the other hand, had himself three different assortments; no holding back. Off the top of my head I can recall only two of the three; one being a Strawberry Finn of some sort, and another having jalapenos. My where his taste buds lead him I will never understand. A successful sushi lunch nonetheless.
After lunch we set out on our next adventure! Earlier that morning we had bought tickets to visit Top of the Rock. I had been once before, about 10 years ago, but this would be a first time for Chris. We weren't planning to do too many touristy sites, but this was definitely something I wanted to do again. Only being a few blocks down from our lunch spot, we waddled on to the Rockefeller Center.
Our tickets were set for 4pm, but we lucked out and were able to ride on up a little earlier. Not trying to use this opportunity for a plug-in, but you can see a video on my Instagram of our ride up the elevator to the top. They expose the top of the elevator so you can watch yourself rise up 70 floors in just 45 seconds. A real ear-popping experience.
Once to the top, they offer a souvenir photo opportunity to sit on a beam (as one did when they built it in the 1930s). We did the photo, but was unwilling to buy it for $45. Ew, no thank you. Moving on, we headed out to the Observation Deck.
And our view above New York City.
We also witnessed a proposal!!! Although I missed most of it, Chris pointed out the couple (the very bottom righthand corner of the above photo; ya know the ones with only half the body or head visible) when the man was just rising up from one knee. How romantic! :) I wanted to film them, but then found it ridiculously creepy if I did. So I didn't. I just love LOVE, and what a better moment to want to capture. Congrats to you, strangers above the Rock!
As the evening approached, we were headed back to the hotel to change for dinner. Alongside Jason and Tara (our double date from the night before), we made our way to Wolfgang's Steakhouse there in Time Square. Delicious. A great way to end the weekend!
To begin, of course we got some apps. Although, we probably should have shared each one. Yet, we managed to devour our own individual platters - crazy now that I think about it. So you could say we were stuffed only moments after arriving. Not to mention following it up with salads and a 13 oz. filet. We were apparently warned about the meat serving sizes, and were advised we may be want to split the "meal for 2 or 3" between all of us. Going against that, I thought my individual filet was going to be petite, no indication on the menu said otherwise. But boy was I wrong.
Needless to say, I did not finish it. As a mater of fact, I may have actually only cut into two full slices and put the rest in a box to go. As my good Samaritan deed of the week, I handed it off to a homeless man who sat outside our hotel with his dog. I spotted him earlier when I had arrived to the city, and found something remarkable about him. With the little he had he still provided food and warmth to that dog, and that showed a real characteristic; selflessness. A rarity this day and age.
Day Four:
The last day. So far we had a great visit. There were still a couple things left I wanted to see, but we were short on time. Our car was to arrive at the hotel by 12:30pm to take us to the airport, so we got up pretty early to pack our bags to save time for last minute sight seeing.
Our first stop was to the 911 Memorial. So we hitched a ride in our LAST taxi, and headed on down to lower Manhattan. I remember my visit 10 years ago, just 3 short years after the tragedy had taken place. It was just a construction site. Now they have two reflection pools honoring all the lives lost. Standing beside them now, is the brand new 104 story World Trade Center complex, known as the Freedom Tower. With only an hour and 1/2 on the clock, we were unable to stand in line for the memorial tour. With that said, we weren't able to see much passed the gates. Although we did get a good view of the Freedom Tower.
Next we were on our way to Battery Park. Only a few blocks down, we were able to avoid another cab ride. Like I said earlier "our last taxi". It was such a beautiful day, so we were enjoying the stroll together. It's not often you get to walk peacefully, hand in hand with your husband in New York City. ;) Again with the time crunch, we didn't have a ferry ride scheduled to see the Statue of Liberty. No matter, though. Chris found it unnecessary deeming it a "neck breaking" experience to try and view a 305' statue up close. I agree, but it's still history man! If we had the time I know he'd be up for it, but I wasn't complaining given the reality that time was against us. I still managed to capture a photo of it, though. Bad quality, but hey what ya do...
Last but not least, we were on our way to visit Wall Street. This was one thing that actually struck my husband's interest, so by all means. Although, there really wasn't much to see, and the streets were very quiet. Chris reminded me it was Sunday, however. I'm sure it's a madhouse during the week. I snapped a few cheesy photos of my cute husband, but I'll save him the embarrassment.
Before we knew it, it was time to head back to the hotel. Given the distance was far from our destination, and (if I haven't said it enough) avoiding the dreaded taxi, we decided to head out the only other way you should in New York City. The subway. When in Rome, right?
Now I have experienced subway transportation quite a few times in my life, but I can't say it gets any easier. I know some of you locals could laugh at that, but it's true... I have terrible sense of direction. But given it is not rocket science, my husband was well aware of what he was doing, so we were good to go. And fortunately for us, the subway dropped us off right there in Time Square, just a block shy of our hotel. Shhhwing!!
This trip was certainly a memorable one. I was appreciative of this opportunity to travel alongside my husband. Not a day goes by that I dont appreciate our Lord for His blessings. Truthfully, after handing my box of food to the homeless man, my eyes filled with tears as I walked back to my hotel room. In a way, I just felt... guilty. Here I was with a roof over my head, a bed to sleep in, warm clothes, and options beyond options for food. I know God provides these opportunities to reflect on the life around us. And that I did, indeed. For that moment I just thanked Him. I don't need moments like these to remind me of His grace, but when they arise it's good to just take a moment a be truly thankful.
Until next time NYC!!! It was fun while it lasted!!!
Now it's time to link up!! And what a better song to end this post series. Cheesy, yes. But so appropriate. Not a second went by that this song or the movie Elf's cleverly associated track "You Make Me Feel So Young" didn't pop up in my head walking through the city. Or just good ol Frank himself. Regardless, this is what I chose and you're gonna like it!! ;) Kidding. It just fits.
Just wanted to take a moment and reflect on the importance of life's little moments. Some days I'm so amazed how God works, presenting us with these opportunities to reflect, appreciate, and to be thankful for our blessings. Recently, I stumbled upon a new blog and was thoroughly impressed by how she expressed her faith in almost each post. Even a post solely dedicated to thanking God, simply for the day. I always thank Him before falling asleep, appreciating His love for us, and blessed for yet another day of life with my loved ones. One particular post that stuck out to me, though, was about thanking God for our husbands; appreciating them and understanding that they were placed in our lives for a purpose; as our mate for life.
It couldn't have been more relevant to my life. Chris is the epitome of one of God's truest blessings. As a husband, he loves me unconditionally, through thick and thin; and as a step-father, his love couldn't be more true and honest to my daughter. With a new baby on the way, life has been a whirlwind of excitement. I can be a basket case, yet he remains my rock. I couldn't be more thankful for him. He works hard, I mean hard, and never complains. He tells me everyday "I do it all for my family."
Thank You, Lord for providing me one of your best.
Well, clearly I've left a Friday post to last until Monday, given this weekend was quite the festive one. If I had pictures to share, that would have made a lovely post for today! ...but I failed on that one. So instead, I figured I would just follow up with what was originally supposed to be my regularMotivational Monday.
Counting our blessings...
How soon we forget the good things around us when bad things are happening. Well, it's normal. When we find ourselves struggling, it's difficult to see anything but the negatives. That isn't how it should be, though. Easier said than done, I know. Depending on the struggles we endure, completely determines the amount of strength we need to stay positive. However, I heard it best stated:
"Every day may not be good,
but there is something good in every day."
How true!! Take time out on a rough day, and reflect on something good that happened. A friend of mine recently told me that's her way of helping herself, and her children on tough days. Just one positive moment could help change it all around. :)
I'm usually quite punctual when it comes to arriving to events, appointments, etc; However, I seemed to have misplaced my ticket for that flight to Neverland long ago. I still know how to have fun, and be a goofball -trust me on that one - but I also know when it's time to be an adult. That being said, I've recently been reflecting on what it means to grow up. On August 2, 2009 - at the young age of 24 - life handed me the biggest responsibility known to man... a child; a beautiful baby girl. Right then, I knew life would never be the same, and that it was no longer just about me.
Life throws us curve balls, but throw a child in the mix and that's a whole other story. No one knows whether they're prepared or not, until that time comes - and for some, they're never ready, and never will be. But for those who accept life's challenges, realize the blessings in disguise. The blessing of a child is not hidden, mind you, but the amount of love and the bond that grows with the two of you is completely astounding and unimaginable. They become your world.
With the responsibility of a child, there's no doubt it's time to grow up. That car you wanted; not important. That dream house; it can wait. Even the last bite of breakfast, lunch or dinner; it's theirs if they ask for it. I remember witnessing one of my mom's selfless acts when I was younger. I asked for the rest of her meal - and I'm pretty sure I had already finished my whole plate - yet, she willingly gave it to me replying, "I'll never take food from my baby's mouth." Incredible. The simple act of possibly starving yourself, for the sake of fulfilling your child's hunger, it's what we do... and never second guessed.
Everyone, meet my mama.
Another witnessed account of growing up, was a few weeks ago. After owning a gas-guzzler for almost two years, my husband, the sensible man, decided it was time to readjust our finances. The money we would save with a less gas-guzzling vehicle would go into savings for activities and school these following years. Of course, that's more important. Sometimes big adjustments have to be made.
Sleep deprivation is another sign that growing up is in effect. Children don't have a body alarm in their younger years, and that can make for some rough nights. For these past months, baby girl likes to crawl in bed with us - usually around 3am - and I end up squished between a giant 6' man, and a child who seems to enjoy kickboxing in her sleep. With that said, my little one now resides on a small mattress on the floor beside our bed before bedtime, and for when she sneaks in our room in the middle of the night. It's been quite accommodating for all parties involved.
Snug as a bug in a rug.
Nonetheless, when they wake up and need you to scratch their back to help them fall back asleep, we do it... even if we're barely awake ourselves. Then as soon as the sun is awake - as my sweet girl likes to describe the sunrise - we have to gather whatever energy we have, and begin another day! Time doesn't stop, and neither do they.
Although having a child is certainly the beginning of learning to grow up, we continue to learn along side them, as well. Children teach us the simple joys in life. Growing up doesn't mean letting go of the things that make us happy, but prioritizing those matters in order of importance. For me, it's my daughter.
She is my #1.
Chris, you know it's a close tie... ;)
AMY SHEPHERD PHOTOGRAPHY
Remember, growing up doesn't have to be about hardships. Behind the struggles there are blessings hidden, soon to be revealed. Growing up and gaining knowledge through our children is a great virtue.
And for fun, growing up also does not meanyou can't have a good time with some good tunes!!!
This may not be for everybody, but the tunes I'm rocking today is one of my absolute favorites, and one we enjoy shaking it to in Zuuuuuumba. Oh yes!!!
I figured, for anyone interested, it was time to spill the beans a little about who I am, and all that fun stuff! I debated whether this should be a post, or an About Mee page of its own... post won. It's a bit of an overload, and when someone sees a section "About Mee" they don't necessarily want to know everyyyyyyything. Do they? It's like asking a stranger, "Hello, how are you?"...and then reciprocated by a drawn out "my day sucks, because... yata yata yata!". You then find yourself a little stunned, or speechless for that matter. Awkward.
But don't get me wrong, I'm a sucker for stories in need of comfort, as my ever-so-patient husband likes to call me "Dear Abby". I'm just saying that excessive responses are not expected at that particular moment and you may be a little overwhelmed - as you may be now with this unnecessary overture. I'm already proving my point. I seem to ramble... but, lets do this.
Now, in case you are wondering, I did not spell the word wrong... Mee was intentional. And all for good reason. Without going into an abundance of detail, my middle name is hyphenated "Danielle-Mee", and as a convenience, (or to my grandmother) I'm Megan Mee. And yes, I like to feel clever by using it as a play-on-word any chance I get. Although, I did try to avoid using it excessively on my blog. Keepin' it simple people.
Ok, ok... moving forward.
This is Mee:
So, lets see if I can quickly bore you to tears break it all down:
I am Korean (if that wasn't difficult to notice), but what I couldn't tell you is if I'm 100% or maybe even 3/4 Korean and 1/4 something else. Why, you ask? I was adopted at 3 months old. With that said, my parents are myparents and I do not have any idea - nor desire - of who my birth-mother was/is... was.
As my faith being an important asset, I knew God placed me with a remarkably loving, selfless family and I could not have been more blessed and fortunate.
"Ladies and gentleman, the Captain has turned on the Fasten Seat Belt sign. Make sure your seat back and folding trays are in their full upright position."
Here we go...
In my early twenties, I enrolled in Cosmetology school with my long time bestie- because we make the best decisions together... hardly - and graduated as a licensed cosmetologist... only to immediately pack my bags and move to another state given the heart sometimes overrules the mind. Figure that one out.
Jumping WAY ahead - sorry it's just best - I found myself back in my hometown, and a new single mom to a beautiful daughter.
Where to go from here? You could say my life took a turn, enduring some hardships.
But seriously - after moving from state-to-state, divorced (oops, there I said it), and a mother at a young age - OH EM GEEEEEE - who's perfect??
I once heard it best stated:
"You know my name, but not who I am;
you know what I've done, but not what I've been through."
There's been many trials and complete fails errors in my life... none that I should regret - as we learn from our mistakes - but it wasn't an easy road. Although, we aren't dealt anything we can't handle, and have to grow from them, right? At least I did.
With Faith as my guide, I found my footing back on the right path. Which in turn led me to... what my heart would call "my angel"... my husband. A blessing, that no words could remotely describe and I'm not even going to attempt. He's simply amazing.
With this new love, and perspective that life was just beginning, I found myself focusing only on our blessings - our Faith growing stronger together - trying to always see the good; avoiding the negative. That's not easy to do when the world is what it is, but we can do what we can in our own lives!! I believe we encounter hardships as a way for us to grow - seeing another side to the world - making sure we learn and understand the difference in what's accepted and what's not. For these last years, I have lived a life along side my Faith, as guidance to what life should be about... being good to yourself. In turn, I hope to continue to be a good wife, a good mother, and a good friend.
FUN FACTS:
- I'm a stay at home mom.
- DVR is a lifesaver when raising a toddler.
- I don't believe in food deprivation and overindulge in carbs .
- Fitness is a necessity, to make up for the above.
- My ability to recite just about every Disney movie is astonishing.
- I have a secret English accent that only my daughter is aware of.
- I'm obsessed with heels, but rarely wear them; I walk fast.
- I recently converted to country music; by miracle.
- I may or may not have a strange attraction to Jase Robertson.
There's not much more about me that's not nails to a chalkboard already been said... at least, thus far.
I started this blog as a way to write down - and share - thoughts, not so much opinions, and just everyday things that intrigue me. Although I don't credit myself as clever minded as some, or one who speaks with no filter, I'd like to think I could provide something entertaining in this bloggy world.
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