Peck family

where has the time gone?

2009-05-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

FEBRUARY
Madi Ann turned 14 February 19 and we celebrated by going out to her favorite restaurant "Martini's". You make me so proud Madi :)

Here is Mason licking the plate from Madi's cheese cake she got. What a dork!

MARCH
Harley Hog Wild had to say goodbye after a very quick injury he just couldn't recover from. He has been deeply missed.

APRIL

We went to my brothers for Easter as we do every year and had a great time. Here is Uncle Chad with all the nieces and nephews.

We added a new member to our family. Her name is Nora and she has been such a blessing and has filled that void after losing Harley.

April 24th Tori turned 16. It's so hard to believe and cherish those special moments because there will come a time where they think they don't need you anymore. Tori has really turned into a beautiful young lady and I couldn't be prouder.

My baby is growing up so fast. It has been 3 years already that Marty and I had been over in Russia getting our Little Man. I look back at the past 3 years and it's hard to believe that is all the longer it's been cuz it feels like he has been with us forever.

I'm so proud to be your mom Mason James Paul Peck :)

Sorry for the delay in the updates. I'll say the same thing I say every year at this time...I'll try to do better.

Love to all,
The Peck's

sorry folks

2009-04-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

Only have a minute but wanted to let everyone know that I haven't forgotten about ya. Mason is doing amazingly well and can't wait to tell you all more about it. I'll really try to get to it before Easter and we head out to Denver to see Chad and Megan. Look back in the next few days.
Love to all,
The Pecks

My Beautiful Baby Boy

2008-11-02T15:52:00.000-08:00

Friday I was flipping through the channels while Mason & I were coloring in the family room and I came to "The Baby Story" and it was showing the lady delivering the baby. Mason turned to me and asked if the baby was coming from the mommies tummy and I said "yes." Next he asked if all babies come from their mommies tummies. Instantly I thought "here I go" and I explained to him how the girls came from my tummy but explained to him how he came to me from Russia. I thought how am I going to explain to him that he was born from another mommies tummy. I'm not ready for him to know that he has another mommy out there. I know the day will come but should it be at the age of 4. I wasn't so sure. Mason knows he is adopted and he has his very own "Story" and we talk openly about it to him and he will tell others that he was in Russia looking for a mom and dad and we were looking for a little boy and god searched for the perfect match for each of us and when we saw each other we fell instantly in love with "Pavel" better known now as Mason James Paul Peck.
I know I will have to tell Mason more someday about his Russian family because he does have a birth mom, brother & sister that someday he probably will want to meet and I will never hold him back from that. I don't know the circumstances as to why his birth mom had to give him up, but I am so grateful to her.
I'm rambling. It's bath time so we better get it going.
Thanks to all for listening.
Much love,
The Peck's

PS: I would like to congratulate Kristen, Mike, Marina & Alexander. They are a family we were in Russia with and they are on their way to Chicago today to get ready for the arrival of their new son Xavier coming from Korea. CONGRATULATIONS YOU GUYS!!! Wish we could be there. You guys are amazing parents and I know Marina & Alexander will make great big sister & brother.

"Can't fix stupid"

2008-10-27T17:13:00.000-07:00

I've got to tell you this story--example of his wit and sense of humor.

Today Mason was to take snack for preschool and I had every intention of making "jello beans" in orange, black (cherry) & green for Halloween. This weekend quickly passed by & I completely forgot about it until last night at about 6:30 so I decided to go to Walmart and create a party mix (marsh mellows, goldfish, pretzels & M&M's)

Meanwhile Marty asked where I had gone to.
Madi replied "she forgot about Mason's snack so she ran to Walmart".
Marty "can't believe that"
Mason "can't fix stupid"

Constant laughter 24/7.

Much love to all,
The Pecks

Mason's preschool "Chapel Time"

2008-10-13T18:31:00.000-07:00

My little boy is maturing. He actually performed this time and I was just beaming with pride. He wasn't the "kid to watch" this time. I was so excited for the next song, I got out the camera so I could show dad what a great job Mason was doing. I just knew it would get better.

Oh boy, I got way ahead of myself

He is a goofball and I love that goofball. He is my son--I'm the lucky mom that has constant laughter surrounding her 24/7.

My goofball, my son, my Mason.

Much love to all,
The luckiest mom in the world.

Overdue update :o)

2008-10-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

Sept. 28th we went on our annual trip with Todd & Trish Larson to the Kansas City Speedway. We always have an awesome time. Maybe to much......

Marty passes out in front of the spot-a-pots during the busch race on Saturday.

Our newest addition is getting so big. She's potty trained so I can't complain about that but she is into everything like a puppy does and then you add Mason to the mix and it's enough to drive me CRAZY!

When we 1st got Bailey I took her to work and she slept on my desk. Precious.

Now she has gotten so big. She also sleeps with us every night.

Madison's Volleyball

Volleyball is all done but we are just getting started with tournament team so here we go again.

Mason's 1st day of pre-school.
All is going well with preschool this year with Mason now going 3 days a week for 2.5 hours. It's a welcomed break for me. Teachers have said that he has really matured this year so that was a pleasant surprise--cause I'm not so sure!

I don't know, what do you think!

I'll update more soon because I have more video of Mason at the 1st Chapel Time for preschool again. Oh what an entertainer.

Much love to all,
the Peck's

Just an update

2008-08-30T21:19:00.001-07:00

My two beautiful girls goofing around with the camera. Something they do quite regularly and I haven't figured out the fun in it but it's a moment where the two get along so no complaints here.
I must admit that I have got two very good girls. Other than the fighting between the two (especially in the mornings now that school has started up). I feel very fortunate.

I thought this picture of Mason was so cute that I had to share. Mason starts school on Wednesday, the 3rd. I'm really going to miss him but I'll also enjoy the time to get things done.

Well I gave in much sooner than I expected but we ended up getting a new puppy. Our family was in such a blue mood all week after the loss of Jada that I quickly gave in. I did some searching and found a family in Nebraska with a litter that was ready to go. Marty and I got up last Saturday and he said "what do you think" & I said "let's go". Our Boston Terrier I think had taken it the hardest not having Jada around so I also did it for him. Jada had been with our family for 12 years and Harley has been with us for 11 so it was definitely a mourning process for him also.

Harley being introduced to the newest addition "Bailey Von Clown".

Isn't she precious.

She is 7 weeks old and doing amazingly well. She is already whining at the door to go out and has had very few accidents (depends on whose watching her--girls) Marty has already gotten a pheasant breast out on fishing line and she has already started pointing at it. It is so neat to watch. Her instinct is amazing. She already pointed and chased down her first bunny so Marty is really pleased with her.

Harley seems to be adjusting to her well.

Hope everyone is doing well. I know it's been an adjustment getting the kids back into the routine of school again but it's been nice.

Much love to all,
The Pecks

P.S. Tori is already quiting her job. It was nice when it lasted. :0(

Our beloved Jada Bug Clown

2008-08-24T17:34:00.001-07:00

Sadly last week we had to put our lovely German Shorthair dog "Jada" down due to Cushings Disease. She was much loved by us all and everyone that got the experience to hunt with her. She is deeply missed. We were blessed with her for 12 years and it will be a lot for another dog to live up too.
We love you Jada Bug

Much love
the Pecks

updates :)

2008-08-04T10:39:00.000-07:00

August 2, 2008

My cousin Amy got married this past weekend to Nate Lahrs in Lawton, IA. It was a beautiful wedding and Amy was a gorgeous bride. Tori was a jr. bridesmaid and walked with Amy's brother Adam. Tori & Adam have an awesome friendship. Tori enjoys Adam alot and I think their friendship only grew.

July 26-29, 2008

Madi & I along with Erin & Keri Schuelke went to Chicago for the weekend and had the best time ever. I have never laughed so hard being around those two Schuelke girl's. Thanks for all the good laughs you guys.

Never a dull moment with Madi & Erin.

The girls are climbing the walls of an elevator we are waiting for at a mall.

Here is Madi at a street sign with her name on it.

A quite moment with the girls sitting in front of a flower bed.

And Tori says Madi has no strength. haha
This is taken at one of the museums we went too.

If you ever get to Chicago you have got to go to a restaurant called Ed Debevic's. In the center is our waitress and they dress in the most ridiculous outfits, give you a very hard time (she said I was high maintenance because I ordered french & blue cheese dressing--can you imagine me "high maintenance") they also get up on the tables and sing and dance. It was a very fun experience and I highly recommend it.

Keri, Erin & Madi pausing for a moment

July 4, 08

Tori and her dance squad group was in the parade for the 4th and you can see Mason in bottom left corner looking for Tori.

Mason found Tori and ran out to try and get her to "stop Tori"

Final home softball game--yippee

Tori had an awesome season of softball. Here she hit a ball to center. She did an amazing job on her hitting this year & her pitching. Always glad when it's over but in the same sentence I miss it.

Hard to keep the updates going during the summer because of all the activities so hopefully I'll get better when the kids start school again. I'm looking forward to that. The girls start school on the 20th and Mason will start 3-day preschool after Labor Day.

Hope all is well with everyone.
Much love,
The Pecks

P.S. Almost forgot to mention that TORI GOT A JOB!!! She loves the quick money from tips being a waitress but "it's so hard being on her feet for 6hrs".

Summer is fun

2008-06-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

Chad & Megan, along with their daughter Jazz came this past weekend and it was great to see them. The nieces & nephews love seeing Aunt Megan & Uncle Chad.

L 2 R Mason, Tori, Madison, Aliza, Taylor and Ethan. The kids love getting together and get along great. Mason and Aliza are always off in their own little world away from others.

Peas in a Pod these two.

Aliza is the boss and Mason is the puppy always doing as he is asked. It is so cute to see these two together. They are litteraly best of friends. Mason will ask if "his Aliza" will be there and he is always talking to her on the phone (pretending).

Chad, Megan, Dawn & kids along with myself & kids went to the waterpark on Sunday after the Smith reunion and we had a blast. It was a hoot watching the biggest kids of all (Dawn & Chad) going down the slides. Once Chad got Dawn convinced to go down the slides there was no stopping those two. It was fun getting together and talking about old times, the three of us get together and we do alot of laughing. I love you Dawn & Chad.

We are finishing up our softball season with our last game on Monday. Tori has done an awesome job of pitching this year and we are very proud of her. We haven't been taking Mason to most of the games because it is harder this year to keep him still and entertained so we have been getting a teammate of Tori's little brother (thanks a ton Trevor) to watch him and it is allowing Marty and I to watch the game more closely.

Rain has kept us away from the pool a lot this summer so far but hopefully that will all end here shortly. Mason is a fish and I have to keep a close eye on him because this year he is more confident and disappearing on me but thankfully for a lot of friends he is always being watched by someone.

Much love to all,
the Peck's

Misc. posting

2008-05-29T09:41:00.000-07:00

Mason in his Power Ranger suit helping me clean. I hope he keeps enjoying that.

Mason's little friend Cambry from preschool. This was on their last day and they had it at the park so Mason's patience for the picture was very limited.

I have been trying to grow Mason's hair out since Christmas. It is completely out of control. He has several colics that even hair gel can't tame. I'm about to give up and buzz it again. Plus I think buzzing is so much cuter.

Video update

2008-05-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

A while back I had posted a video of Mason's preschool program and I had many comment that they would like to see the entire performance (of one song) this time. So here it is. He did do better and he wasn't necessarily the one everyone watched this time. Throughout the program he would cover his face every time there was a flash and he would say "stop taking pictures of me" so everyone could hear. Last program of the year so we will have to see how he does next year in the 3 day program.

Mason will be attending Vacation Bible School next week everyday from 9-11:30 so that will be interesting. I'll have to update you on it later.

Much love to all,
the Pecks

2nd Annual Family Day May 14, 2008

2008-05-29T08:24:00.000-07:00

We celebrated what we call "family day" on May 14th because it was the day that we came off the plane with Mason for the first time and the 5 of us were finally all together. Some adoptive families celebrate "gottcha day" or "adoption day" but I wanted a day that was significant to all 5 of us were the girls could take part. It works for us and we love it.

Out to eat celebrating.

Mason opening his gift. A critter net and critter keeper. I though maybe it would help with his fear of bugs but so far it hasn't.

Mason on the trampoline with Madi showing his "superhero" stance.

Madi & Mason enjoying some time on the "jumpoline" as Mason calls it.

Madison will probably kill me for this but I like the picture.

Hope this finds everyone doing well.
Much love to all
the Pecks

Mason's 4th Birthday

2008-05-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe my baby is 4 already. He has grown to be such an intelligent young man and he marvels me everyday. We celebrated his birthday with family on Memorial Day and had a great time of just sitting around outside with some long over due nice weather.

I got this taken before everyone arrived.

PaPa Darrell showing Mason his new bigwheel he got and all the buttons to push for noise. It even plays music like on a radio, has blinkers and an engine noise. Mason loves it.

Aunt Dawn and the kids got Mason a new batman suit. Mom was not thrilled because I had requested no suits due to the fact that I am putting them on all day but he loves it and it makes him happy plus I did have to throw away the others because there was nothing left of them anymore.

Batman patiently waiting for everyone to finish singing "Happy Birthday" so he could blow out the candles. (yes we opened up gifts first because PaPa had to get going cuz he had a long drive)

Hope all is well with everyone.
Much love,
the Pecks

Our very own superhero "Batman"

2008-05-29T08:02:00.001-07:00

Batman on his new "Batmobile"

Batman taking a break and watching the Spiderman 2 movie

Batman proudly showing off his suit

What on earth is he doing?

2008-05-06T10:30:00.000-07:00

This video is testament to what I have been trying to explain all along about what a goofball Mason is. He has never been one that liked to participate in singing at his preschool programs and I finally got it for all to see. I had to turn my camera off because I thought maybe that was what was distracting him. Oh how wrong I was, I'll do the whole song next time. I was so embarrassed and the other parents were laughing--as I am sure you will too. Enjoy.

2008-04-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

It has been 2 years ago already that Marty & I were standing before a judge in Krasnoyarsk Russia asking to be the proud parents of Mason James Paul Peck. This little guy has brought so much joy to so many, not just family but everyone he comes in contact with. He is so bubbly, outgoing, funny and the biggest goofball of anyone. People will say how lucky he is to have been "rescued" from the life he could have had but really it is I who has been "rescued". I had been so focused on having our 3rd child that I completely lost sight of everything. We had been wanting a 3rd child for so many years and after 3 miscarriages, months of infertility and the insanity of focusing on that 3rd baby and nothing else I finally convinced Marty about looking into adoption. It is not a journey for everyone because it takes so much patience but just like they say about the pain of labor--you forget all you went through to get there. I cannot imagine my life any other way then having this little boy that brings so much joy to me everyday. We do so much laughing during the day and every moment is treasured.Mason is our very own Superhero. Here he is with a collection of a few of them.

Yesterday was Tori's 15th birthday. I know we all say it over and over again but where does the time go. We celebrated her birthday at her restaurant of choice with family and then she is having a big sleep over on Saturday with all her friends.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TORI!!! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH

Today the girls, myself and my mom are going to Omaha to see the show Annie. We are so excited. We are going to stay the night and then go shopping Saturday morning. I try to treat the girls every once in awhile by spending time with them without Mason and this is something we enjoy doing together. I LOVE YOU GIRLS.

Much love to all,
The Pecks

Sick little man

2008-04-07T10:31:00.000-07:00

Marty took Mason to the doctor today because he was continually getting worse over the weekend with high fever, running nose and a terrible barking cough. He has slept with us every night since last Thursday. He was diagnosed with influenza B. He is such a sick little guy, it just breaks my heart. You get so use to fixing all the boo-boos and this one I could not take care of on my own. We are all on medication because of the severity of how contagious he is. For the most part we all feel pretty well. At least the weather is getting back to normal Iowa weather with temps only in the 40's and rain so we wont be missing anything fun outdoors.

Much love to all,
the Pecks

Finally a beautiful spring day

2008-04-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

FINALLY A BEAUTIFUL SPRING DAY---AND MASON IS SICK.

Iowa weather is so unpredictable. A week ago we had 5 inches of snow and today we have 69 degree temperatures. It's nuts. But unfortunately Mason has come down with a fever since yesterday. He just breaks my heart. We did go out on the deck for a few minutes to get some air and I have a few windows open which feels great but he is so sad he can't play out there.

I love this picture so much. There's so much innocence in his eyes. My precious son.

Much love to all
The Pecks

Quick update :-)

2008-04-04T10:12:00.000-07:00

Mason from day one of being home has attached himself to this pillow (we have a few to switch out) and we are currently trying to limit the time he has his pillow available to him. He is only now able to have it in his room so several times a day he will go stand in his doorway (which is in the family room) and get his "pillow fix". Sometimes he will try to sneak out of his room and tease me with it. He is such a hoot.

This morning Mason had asked Marty to get him some juice and fruit snack and I overheard Marty ask Mason if I wouldn't do it for him. I didn't pay much attention to their conversation but the next thing I know I am getting his juice and fruit snack--no big deal I do it all day so I didn't think much of it but Mason went up to Marty and said "told ya". Apparently Marty told Mason he didn't think he could get me to do it. He is such a smarty pants. He is always up to something and thinking all the time.

Tori sprayed color into Mason's hair. It's purple and he did not want it washed out--bit of a temper tantrum but I did win and thankfully before Marty go home. We are also in the process of trying to grow his hair out and the next time I blog I will have to show a pick of the mess of hair he has. I'm tempted to go back to buzzing the hair but I'm trying to hold out a little longer.

Mason showing off his Superman Easter basket. He is so into superman, batman & spiderman. He plays the part of them all day and I have to continually tell him there is someone in trouble and they need saving from "which ever he is at the moment"
Mason showing grandma his Easter eggs he collected. We had a nice Easter spending it with family. Went out for Chinese food though and that was really odd but nice seeing the family.
I cannot believe tht it has been 2 years already that we were on our way to Krasnyarsk Russia to pick up Mason to be with is "Forever Family" He has grown so much and brought so much joy to this family. I can't imagine life without this little ball of entertainment.

Much love to all,

The Peck's

Months of updating.

2008-03-19T17:08:00.000-07:00

Tori tried out for dancesquad again for next year and made it and decided to add varsity cheerleading to her already busy schedule and made that also. Now we just need to find time for a job. ;O)

While on Christmas break Madi got her braces. Above is her with her head gear on she is "suppose" to wear everynight.
Mason got this pony for Christmas from PaPa Darrell. I could have killed my father-in-law but I still love him dearly. Everyone knew about the horse so they got cowboy gear to go along with it and this is him in his full set up.
Mason being a goofball like always. He is quite entertaining. I'm homebound because of surgery on my ankle in January and this is one of the many moments I have caught on film. We don't get out much so I depend on him for laughter throughout my day. Everyday he tells me "you're my best friend mommy". It's priceless. He is no longer taking naps during the day because it was taking him 30-40 minutes to fall asleep and so far he is doing great. I'm a little lost without the naps but it's all good.

My brother was home for Christmas so we decided to get family pictures done.

Myself, parents, brother & sister My sisters family: Dawn, Taylor, Deno, Ethan & Alize

My brother Chad, wife Megan & dog JazzOur family
Our 3 gorgeous kids

UPDATE :D

2007-12-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

Hello to everyone. It's been awhile since I updated so I thought I would with a bunch of pic's.

Peck's first annual Christmas cookie decorating. The girls decided to start something new this year and it just happended to be my favorite things of all time BAKING--NOT!!

Here Mason is squeezing the frosting out with all his might and as you can see it was only a bit but he was so proud.

Even Marty got into the cookie decorating. After much force. :O

While making the dough Mason got into the flour and quickly he became SANTA. HoHoHo

Tori had her first high school winter formal (with date Daniel). It was fun seeing her all dressed up.

I think the best shots are the ones they take themselves. Just goofing around.

Madi & Mason. Yes that is Mason in the wig, hat, glasses & DRESS. Marty is so worried about his little man. But it's all in fun.

Sadly we had to put our beloved Gunnar down a few weeks ago. It's been different in the house without him. He was 14yrs old and had a great life.

YES I WAS GONE WHEN THIS WAS BEING DONE!!!
The girls & a friend thought it would be fun to put shaving cream on the kitchen counter to play in. Obviously it got out of hand and ended up on them.

This is the first professional pic we have had done of the kids. I'm so proud of them.

MUCH LOVE TO ALL
from the Peck's

Happy Halloween from the Peck's

2007-10-31T09:44:00.000-07:00

Our very own super hero--Super Mason himself. He has completely worn out the seams and they have all split but it will get him through tonight.

Super Mason all tuckered out after a long day of saving mommy from the monsters in the house. I don't know who was more exhausted Mason or myself. I just don't have the imagination he does to keep up with the same thing over and over again. A memory I won't soon forget though. We did so much laughing.

Just a quick post. Blog is giving me problems downloading pictures so I will try again later.
Much love to all,
Tammy

IT'S BEEN A BUSY SUMMER & SCHOOL HAS STARTED YEA!YEA!

2007-09-12T06:40:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update, pic's more then anything because I know that's what people really want to see. Mason has grown up so much, he's no longer my baby. If you go back to when this all began you can see such a change, he's now my little man.

July we finally got Mason potty trained. It took a lot of work, more then I expected. He was very stubborn and if he felt like wetting his pants he would. Now he is "a big boy" and we're not even wearing pull ups to bed anymore and he wakes up dry.

Kids and I took pictures to give the grandpa's for father's day. They turned out really cute. Mason was of course stubborn but we did get this one out of him. Seems to be a theme with Mason "stubborn"

Madison started 7th grade this year and has joined volleyball. She is doing great and loves being involved with a sport.

Tori is a freshman this year--yikes!! She will be able to drive on her own only to and from school starting in Oct. I'm not ready for this.

Mason is outside dancing in the rain.

Mason and Jada are hanging out together watching cartoons.

Mason's first day of preschool. It was not an easy day. He was really excited about going and couldn't wait to make new friends but when he realized mom was leaving him there he wasn't so excited. Teacher's distracted him and no real tears but he wasn't thrilled by it. Then the second day of preschool (only on Tues. & Thurs. from 9-11:30) I left him with tears but nothing to serious, still broke my heart. Now yesterday when I dropped him off he was crying before we even got into the building. I had to carry him in and his big thing is if he wants out of something he says he's tired and wants to take a nap and the teacher's offered him a pillow in the floor but that didn't work. I had to hand him over to the teacher and he was screaming as I walked out the door. It tore my heart in two. When I do pick him up though he is smiling and excited to tell me what they all did during school. He has commented on the fact that he is told to be quiet and he doesn't like it. :) Same comment I get from all the teachers when we have conferences for the girls.
Update on Megan, my sister-in-law. She is scheduled for her transplant on Sept. 19. Her mother is her donor and we are all so excited for this time to finally be here. It's been such a long journey and Megan is handling it the best out of all of us. I wish you all could meet Megan because she is such an amazing person--always upbeat and positive even when she's at her lowest, always trying to reassure everyone when we are down when it should all be us supporting her. I am going out for the surgery and I will get you all updated as soon as I can.

Hope this finds everyone doing well.
Much love to all,
from the Peck's

Hello to All

2007-07-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note--My sister-in-law has been matched with a kidney from her mother. We are hoping to hear in the next couple of days when the surgery will be taking place. Thank you everyone for all the prayers. It means so much to me how everyone has taken interest in Megan without even knowing who she is. God's been listening.
Much love to all,
Tammy & family

HAPPY 4th OF JULY

2007-07-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

Mason, Tori & Madison --- I might be prejudice but I think they are beautiful kids

I hope everyone had a great fourth. It is such a great day to honor those that have fought for the very freedom we have. My grandfather is a veteran of WWII and it's always nice to see the joy in his eyes when seeing the appreciation we all have for what he and many others sacrificed for us all so many years ago and to honor the men who are still fighting to this day.

I wanted to update everyone on Megan and let you know that she is doing much better. She did not suffer a stroke so thank you for all the prayers, this day they were truly answered. Her blood pressure is normal now and they hope to dismiss her on Friday. The miracle of prayers are truly amazing.

Last weekend my sister and her three kids along with my mom, Aunt Lori & her son Adam went to Adventure Land for a family reunion. We spent Saturday at the park riding most of the rides and the kids had a blast. They were so good that day and couldn't have asked for better kids. Sunday we had the family reunion and got to see many family that we don't otherwise get to see. It was nice seeing everyone.

Riding the trolley to the park L2R back row -- Adam, Taylor, Aliza, Mason & Tori L2R front row Madi & Ethan.

Madi, Tori & Taylor being their goofy selves.

Mason riding the merri-go-round with Grandma

Much love,

Tammy & family

PRAYERS ARE NEEDED

2007-07-02T16:20:00.000-07:00

As many of you have heard from me in past postings, my sister-in-law Megan is in need of a kidney transplant. In May they successfully removed her damaged kidney (the kidney she had received about 15 years earlier in a previous transplant) and everything was going fairly well. I was out to see her and Chad (my little brother) after the surgery and daily Megan was getting stronger. She has continued to have dialysis 3 days a week and work-up was being done on her mother as the possible donor for the kidney. Chad called today to say that Megan is back in the hospital and as of now it is believed that she suffered a stroke caused by high blood pressure of approximately 250's over 180's. Chad said that she is unconscious at this time.
This is what I know as of now and please when you climb into bed tonight say a prayer for Megan & Chad.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL,
Much love, Tammy & family

SOFTBALL, SOFTBALL & MORE SOFTBALL

2007-06-14T16:50:00.000-07:00

Our summer so far has been spent at softball fields. At least 4 games in the week and tournaments on the weekend. I've never been so tan. Tori is doing awesome this year, not a whole lot of pitching on school team but some on tournament team. I prefer it when she's not pitching because it's less stressful, I'm a nervous wreck but it's what she loves to do and she does a great job when she's given the chance. Mason is doing better about being at the games then Madison--she rarely goes cause it's sooooo boring and she ends up driving me nuts so I usually try to find something for her to do so she doesn't have to go and there's always kids around to entertain Mason--when he isn't entertaining everyone else. He's such a goofball.

Mason after a day of softball. It's been hard on him not getting his naps. This day he came home and made his "comfy" and slept from 5 to 7 and then fell back to sleep again at 8:30. It's been real difficult staying on our schedule with all the running for the girls. Tori being in driver's ed besides softball. Madison is always going to this or that friends.

When we are not at softball games Mason loves to be outside and playing in his sandbox he got for his birthday from Aunt Dawn. As you can see there is blue sand in the sandbox. Don't let anyone convince you to get blue sand because it is a mess to deal with. It stains your skin and clothes. As fun as it is it's hard to clean up.

These are Mason's feet after playing in the sandbox. I'm still trying to think of a great gift for my nephew that will do a number on Dawn. Open to any suggestions for a boy turning 7. I'm thinking of something alive.

MAY IS A MONTH OF CELEBRATION

2007-05-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

Monday, May 14th was our 1st official "Family Day". It has been a year that we walked off the plane and the girls, Mason, Marty & I were finally all together. I did not want a special day to remember until the five of us were together cause it was a journey that Marty, the girls & I all made the decision to do together 3 years ago. It's been fun thinking back on what we all remember about that day.
Unfortunately I was unable to celebrate this occasion with them because my brother called and my sister-in-law had recently had surgery to remove her previous transplanted kidney and fix her bladder and took a turn for the worst and my brother called asking me to come earlier then I had planned (leaving that Friday of that same week). Hearing the worry in my brothers voice I immediately dropped what I was doing and left for Denver. Marty was great about it and before I left I stopped at the girls school and said goodbye and then went to Mason's daycare and said goodbye. My Aunt Linda went with me so I didn't have to drive alone and thankfully she did because we ran into some bad weather through Nebraska. We stayed with Chad until Tuesday the 22nd and thankfully Megan was able to come home on Monday the 21st just before I left. Megan is doing great and on her way to getting stronger everyday. They are hoping by the end of July to have a new kidney for her through her family.

Mason & his "Build-a-Bear" we got him for "Family Day" He is a huge fan of Toy Story so we got him "Buzz Bear"

MASON'S 3RD BIRTHDAY, SATURDAY, MAY 26TH

Mason got a skidster from Aunt Kim & Uncle Mark. He hasn't quite figured it out yet and went off the driveway drop and ran into the neighbors house. It didn't even startle him, he was laughing.

Yesterday, May 26th was Mason's 3rd birthday. We had a party with family and he got spoiled rotten with all the great gifts he was given. Mason chose a Shrek birthday theme since he had just seen the movie last weekend. He loved being sung "Happy Birthday" too and blew out the candles in one shot. (We didn't celebrate his 2nd birthday because we had just gotten home and settled and he had received a lot of gifts from a toy shower that was given to us)

Mason and his Shrek birthday cake as we were singing "Happy Birthday"

Mason had a ball playing with his cake.

Another great photo of the 3 kids together.

Being with my brother and sister-in-law really put alot of things in perspective for me. When I think I have it so rough with my arthritis and all the medical bills that we have acquired or when I get upset with the kids for something they have said or done I think of Megan who never complains about what she is going through, you can call her and she'll be so upbeat and positive when you know things can't possibly be. I am truly blessed to have her in my life.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2007-05-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

I hope all you mother's had a great day spending it with the ones you love. Today we went to my sister's and spent the day with her family and my parents. We had a great time just hanging out and doing nothing spectacular just being together.

I've got to tell you this story, I forgot to mention it the last time I was on:

When Tori got confirmed we had to sit in the front of the church and Mason did really good for the most part but half way through it he was getting pretty antsy, loud & mad so I gave Marty "the look" of you better get him out of here and sure enough as they are walking to the back of the church Mason is screaming "MY MOMMY IS MEAN". It really was pretty funny I must say and everyone had to of heard it cuz we were in the front and heard it load and clear. I had a few people come up to me and say it was cute and others that had similar stories to tell.

Our little man.

Tomorrow we will be celebrating our official "Family Day". It will be one year ago tomorrow that we came off the plane and became a family of 5. I will never forget that day of seeing Mason put his arms out to the girls for them to take him. Now that I think back maybe he was trying to say "get me away from these adults". He has came into our lives and blessed it with so much love, laughter and happiness. Not a day goes by that one of us doesn't try to remember what it was like before he was home and it's as if life didn't begin till he was here. Even the girls will say "we are complete".

Oh Yeah--guess what Marty and Mason did for Mother's Day. While the girls and I were gone in Des Moines Marty & Mason went and got their pictures taken. It was the most thought full that has been done for me for a long time. It brought me to tears to think that Marty was able to come up with this idea all on his own. I had just told the girls on Saturday that what I appreciate the most from them on Mother's Day is something made from them or something that they thought of to get me all on their own without me being told to just "pick it out myself". I'll get the pic's on a disc and put some on the blog in the next couple of days.

Hope you all had a great day.

Much love,

Tammy & family

A BLESSED DAY--even with sewer in the basement

2007-05-06T15:39:00.000-07:00

Today was Tori's Confirmation. We are so proud of her and her Christian faith. It has gotten her through a lot of hard times (14yr old girlie stuff).

L 2 R Grandpa, Grandma, (Tammy's parents) Tori & Papa (Marty's dad).

1 year ago today we carried Mason out of the orphanage for the very last time with his forever family. It is a day we feel so blessed for. You work so hard to get all the proper documents collected so everything is in order for court and you honestly never think the day will come. I will never forget the feeling of being a mother to a little boy chosen just for us by god's will.

Many families celebrate this day as their "Gotcha Day" but we (me really) decided to celebrate a "Family Day", which is the day we all (Marty, myself, Mason & the girls) were finally reunited together officially as a family on May 14th, '06. I am hoping to make a traditional Russian meal which is really funny because my family says I can't even make an American meal very well. I'll update you on how that turns out.

To explain the title: We woke up this morning from a terrible storm last night with sewer in our basement. We were so overwhelmed and upset at this because things just haven't seemed to go our way and we were excited to have all our family with us today to celebrate such a grand occasion. The kids and I went to my parents to take showers and upon our return we walked in to the stench of sewer. We quickly realized that we could not have all our company in the house with this smell. The angel always watching over me (my mother) offered her home to us. We ended up having a great day and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Tori received some very nice things someday she'll look back on and appreciate.

Much love to all,

Tammy & family

1yr ago we were in Russian Court

2007-04-25T18:11:00.000-07:00

I cannot get over the fact it has been a year already. I read through the blog I entered last April & it brought back so many memories. I remember Marty & I in the hotel room the night before court going over the questions and answers with our interpretor Aleks and couldn't stop my nervous laugh. Aleks would insist on me answering his questions for practice and I am so glad I finally was able to get over the fear and take him seriously because it help us out so much. We had to know the Russian medical termonology and it was so confusing and thankfully they asked Marty all the hard questions. I was mainly asked about the house, pets, girls and how I was going to be able to raise our son with my arthritis. We could understand their concern and I just told them that I have been raising Tori & Madison for the past 13 & 11 years (back then) with out a problem and with the help of Marty and the girls I would do it again. It must have worked (along with all the other answers we gave to many other questions) because after 45 minutes of questioning and only a few for deciding they came back and told us we were parents of Mason James Paul Peck. We just beamed!!!

I can't forget to mention that Tori turned 14yrs old yesterday. The idea that she can drive scares me to death.

Love to all,

Tammy & family

1yr ago today we were on our way to Russia

2007-04-21T18:11:00.000-07:00

I can't believe what one little guy can do to a group of 4 people (Marty, myself, Tori & Madison). The girls and I were talking about how different our life has been with having Mason in it and how, this coming from the girls "they wouldn't trade him for the world". We were a very happy family before Mason with lots of laughs, love, hugs & kisses and having Mason here today has multiplied all that. Just when you least expect it he runs up and asks for a "squeeze & kiss". The girls and Mason have their little routine of goodbyes every morning when we drop them off at school & they are still excited about walking up to the car after school with the hope of Mason being in there full of hi's & kisses for all.
I've got a lot of "1yr ago today"'s coming up these next couple of weeks so check back.
Also I will be taking Tori to get her driver's permit on Tuesday so say a prayer for me. Today I let her pull the van into the driveway and instead of hitting the break when I had her back up to straighten it out she hit the gas and we went flying. It's funny now but I thought I was going to go through the dash.
To all you other "Krasy American's" (families we met in Russia) you are thought of also through these days of our firsts.
Much love to all,
Tammy

Easter in Denver w/Chad & Megan

2007-04-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

My mom got a new puppy when we were in Denver for Easter. We entered a pet store in a mall and the grandkids all talked grandma into getting the puppy "Molly (dog she already has) needs a playmate". Ironically we named him "Denver".
Not the best picture but as you can see Mason and the puppy are playing tug-of-war with his pillow. Mason was acting like a puppy all weekend, he even tried drinking out of the dog dish.
Mason's 1st Easter. He didn't quite understand the concept and was more occupied with his firetruck basket then anything. That is untill he realized there was candy in the plastic eggs.
Here he found his Veggie Tales movie the Easter Bunny left him.
Bunny also left Mason a set of his own headphones and music player. This made the ride home easier because the older girls had ipods of their own to listen to and he didn't like that.

Hope you all had a great Easter. We have been blessed with so much this past year with Mason coming into our lives and meeting amazing people on our journey. I can't believe it is almost a year already.

(Thank you Chad & Megan for putting up with us)

2007-03-20T14:04:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when you have older sisters--they dress you up in their dresses. We have even been known to paint his fingernails pink. Marty doesn't so much like it. The girls would like a little sister now :0)

Another lazy day hanging out at home with my favorite things--Mom and my pillow.

As you can see from the pic's Mason got ahold of an erase marker. Apparrently I looked away for to long and Mason had a ball. He even colored the inside of his belly button. Most of his toys faces were even crossed out. He tried coloring on Barney which he was watching at the time so the TV screen was also colored. Everything but the walls pretty much. We all laughed so hard we couldn't even punish him which I later came to regret because he found the marker again the next day (because sister didn't put it away like she was asked) but my eyes were open this time and I got it from him just in time.

I can't believe it's been a year that we got the call for our court date already. Where has the time gone.

Much love to all,
Tammy & family

It's been awhile I know. Sorry.

2007-02-25T10:19:00.000-08:00

The other day the kids and I were tormenting our dog Jada by feeding the squirrels on our back deck. We were throwing them oyster crackers and at one time we had 5 squirrels at the door. She sat there and whined and was shaking just at the thought of them being so close and not being able to get to them.

Mason loves to "get comfy". We make a pile of all the blankets he can find through the house and he then climbs on top to be covered by one last blanket.

Mason is a finger sucker. He sucks on his 2 middle fingers and smells this travel pillow. When we were in Russia I brought blankets and stuffed animals for him to get comfort from and he never attached to any of them. When we got home he found these travel pillows that the girls had from all of our trips. He has had a pillow with him at all times ever since. I had to buy more because he sucks on the pillow and then smells it while sucking on his fingers. It's really gross. I even tried buying pillow cases so that I could clean them easier but he removes them if I put it on. We have to rotate the pillows everyday so that he doesn't know one is being cleaned because it gets him very upset to not have one at all times. I try to limit the times he has it outside the house; I will not let him have it in Church, at restraunts or Wal-Mart. If he gets upset at all it is the first thing he asks for. If it came down to it I think he would choose the pillow over me.

Hope this finds everyone doing well and I hope to blog sooner the next time.
Take Care,
Tammy & family

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2006-12-26T18:48:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO EVERYONE! Hope all is well with your families and everyone is healthy this holiday season.
All is well in the Peck household. We were so excited to share Christmas with Mason this year and it was a very exciting one with him being in the house. He absolutely loved presents and especially Santa Claus. He is still walking around the house asking Santa come out and bring more presents. Today he would come up to me and ask for more presents.

We went to Santa's Castle and I really was worried about how he would react to Santa but he told him that he wanted Barney and kept telling him Thank You Santa even as we were walking out the door. Later Santa made another visit Christmas Eve at my parents house to check on Mason once again and he just went crazy--he stayed real close to me but loved having him there at the same time.

This was Christmas Eve after the girls Christmas program. He is so mischevious and always getting into something. But I love that about him, he keeps us on our toes and we are always laughing. He has brought so much joy to this family and I can't say it enough. If anyone asks him "Who's boy are you" and he always replies, "I'm a mama's boy"

I know I am their mother but are they not gorgeous?

The girls and I tried to get Mason to participate in a group phote for cards but he would have no part of it, he would come in and take off as soon as I took the picture. It actually looks like they might even like eachother in this shot.

Once again Merry Christmas & have a safe and happy New Year!

Together once again.

2006-12-04T16:46:00.000-08:00

Alexander & Mason once again but in Garner, Iowa.

We met Alexander's family on our trip to bring Mason home. We actually spent most of our time with them and created a very special friendship. The boys were in the same orphanage but in different buildings so we always rode together to our visits. Kristen has a sister that lives in Garner (they are from Michigan) so we took the opportunity of them visiting & being so close to get together. It was so nice to get together and talk about how the boys have grown, hopefully it is something we can do often.

L 2 R Madison, Mason, Alexander, Marina & Tori

A couple of weeks ago my sister and her 3 kids along with my 3 and myself drove to Wisconsin to stay at a waterpark for a weekend getaway. It was nice just to get away and the kids had a ball. Mason had a great time in the water and went strong from morning to night.

L 2 R Ethan, Madison, Taylor, Tori & Aliza

The kids making funny faces before we leave for the long trip home.

SANTA'S LITTLE HELPER, ELF MASON. He loves wearing his hat and this day it happen to go up over his ears. WHAT A HANDSOME YOUNG FELLOW.

Much love from the Peck's and we hope you all have a safe and happy holiday.

2006-10-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

We have now been home with Mason for 5 months (14th). I can't even believe it. He is such a sponge and takes in everything. He continues to amaze us all the time. He can completely communicate with us in English. My mom had bought him a music cd of Russian folk songs and he didn't even seem to recognize any of it.

As you can see in the pic's Marty is always watching TV:0) just kidding, he is always a jungle gym with the kids. As soon as he hits the floor they are climbing all over him.

Mason is Elmo's biggest fan! Everything he sees of Elmo sends him in a frenzy. My mom got him an Elmo costume for Holloween and while they were at the store he had it on and wouldn't take it off to scan it so they did it with him in the costume. He sleeps with the costume everynight, I think its become like a security blanket but only it's an Elmo costume. I'll show pic's after holloween.

Everything continues to go well. Mason is getting use to being at sport events and is very good. We have siblings from some of the players that are always great about helping to entertain Mason which gives me an oppurtunity to watch a little bit.

Hope this finds everyone doing well. Much love from the Peck's

2006-09-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

I had to show you guys my collection of pic's with Mason in his goggles. :o) As you can see from the pic's each pair is a different pair, I don't even know where he is finding all these. It always seems that the girls can never find a pair when it comes time to go swimming.

Marty and I are so looking forward to this weekend. It's our annual Kansas City Nascar race. I haven't left Mason overnight yet since returning from Russia and I'm already stressed about it. He'll be in good hands with my parents. It will be the first alone time Marty and I have had also since returning. Very much looking forward to that time too:o)

COWBOY GOGGLE MASON

GOGGLES IN THE TUB

DRIVING HIS FIRE TRUCK IN GOGGLES

2006-09-10T18:58:00.000-07:00

Mason--our little ham! He is such a riot. He is always making us laugh. He loves wearing these goggles all day, haven't had to leave the house with them yet but I'm sure the time will come.

I cannot believe it's been almost 4 months already (14th) that we have had Mason in our home. He is getting to be a typical 2 year old and a handful at times but a joy more times then not. He is really into testing me and has learned what time-out is but I still couldn't ask for a better little boy. He loves to battle. He has become a hitter so we have that to deal with and everything is "mine" and he is very jealous when either of the girls or even Marty are sitting next to me (even our dog Harley), I am his also (my mommy) and Marty and the girls love to tease him by saying "my mommy" and a whole battle breaks out with me in the middle. Mason is such a little talker and loves to repeat everything, even when you don't realize he is listening--not always a good thing. Some of his new words are c-ya, watch, walk, outside, bath, drink, milk, church, book, ready, shoes, socks; to many to mention--he just is an amazing little sponge.

Mason is still going to daycare everyday but hopefully that will soon stop because everyday I take him another day is a deeper injury to my heart. He's only there from 8-3:30 but it should be me teaching him his abc's and 123's. His babysitter is great though and he loves going and being with the other kids.

The girls are doing great. (their going to kill me for putting in the picture). We are in full swing of school and getting into the routine of things. Both are in volleyball this year; Tori school league and tournment. I don't know how she keeps the schedule she does but she loves it that way. Madison is on a tournment team and we get started with that this week. Not really looking forward to taking Mason to volleyball games because they are indoors and we'll be on bleachers were softball was outside and he could run around. We'll see how it goes, he'll probably surprise me like always.

I've got a request of everyone. My sister-in-law Megan is in need of a kidney transplant. She needs a lot of prayers right now and I ask that you add her to your's. Her prayers had been answered one other time 15 years ago when she had a transplant then but her body has now rejected her given kidney. God willing Megan will receive another and my brother Chad and her can once again enjoy the life they created together only 3 years ago. Thank you.

Much love and happiness to all from the Peck's

2006-08-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

1st group photo of the 3. B-e-a-u-tiful if I must say so myself. This was the day we got Mason baptised and it was a perfect day. Weather was wonderful and we had all our family and friends there to share in the event. Todd & Trish Larson are Mason's God Parents and we were honored to have them stand at the alter with us that day. When Pastor poured the water on Mason's head I set him up straight and he said "what that guying do'in". It was so funny and when Pastor gave Mason the blessing of the symbol of the cross on his forehead and heart Mason put his hand over his heart, it was so precious.

Mason's 1st haircut since being in the states. As you can see he didn't care to much. Aunt Dawn had the honors of giving the haircut. As you can see from the picture the hair was quiet long and I was hoping it would grow out nice but it wouldn't and I had to do something before the baptism so I gave into cutting it. Marty wants to buzz it again but I want one more chance to grow it out.

Mason loves to act like a puppy all the time. He gets on all fours and walks around saying "arf,arf". In our room we have a dog kennel and he loves to play in it. (It's all in fun and he is never locked in there) He is such a riot to watch. If we don't watch close enough we will catch him in the dog dish eating food and drinking their water.

Hope this finds everyone doing well and we love to hear your comments.

Much love,

Marty, Tammy, Tori, Madison & Mason

Goal--keeping up the blog

2006-08-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

I have had so many people comment on the fact that I have not posted since being home and it is now a personal goal of mine to keep you all posted on Mason and the family.

My cousin Jamie got married in July and we took Mason to the reception and he learned how to dance. He is such a ham dancing and now starts in when ever the music in on. He had such a ball and we enjoyed just watching him interact with everyone out there. About an hour later he came up to me and said "night-night mama", he was exhausted.

Mason is doing absolutely fantastic. He is talking up a storm. He says probably 50-75 English words. Many of his favorites are stop, no, don't, bath, eat & drink, get your own & the most use word in his vocabulary is "mine". He is doing much better with eating and will try most things but is picky.

We have had to get a babysitter for Mason for the past month in a half, our secretary at work had to have surgery and needed 6 weeks off for recovery so I had to fill in for her. He is going to my good friends Trish everyday and gets spoiled rotten. She has no other daycare kids so he gets a lot of attention. My boss (Marty) also insists that I have to return to work on a part-time bases at least through the winter. I was absolutely devestated and had to find a daycare that I would have to leave him at on a daily basis. (Trish works for the school system and has to return to work when school starts). I am really struggling with this. The idea of having to take him to daycare is really a struggle for me because I was able to stay home with the girls till they started school but I know that women all over the coutry do it and I do think it will be good for Mason to be around other kids his age. I did find someone to take him to and he will only go from 8-noon so it's not bad. It's going to be harder on me then on Mason which in turn will be hard on Marty because when Mama ain't happy no ones happy.

Mason's favorite time of the day is bath time, you mention it and he starts to strip down. The water is ice cold by the time you get him out of there. It's a time that I really enjoy also cause it is just him and I interacting together. But when it is time to remove him from the freezing water he goes crazy and throughs a temper tantrum that lasts for quite some time--to long for the girls and Marty to be able to stand all the screaming and crying. So to give an insight to his tantrum I took a picture.

Mason after his bath!!!

This precious child has brought so much joy to our family that I can't even imagine what life was like without him. It has been 3 months already (the 14th) that we have been a family of five. He is such a character and makes us laugh non-stop. The girls can't get enough of him and are great about helping out. They start back at school on the 21st and are so ready but they know they will miss seeing Mason during the day. I'm looking forward to a routine again and getting things back to normal.

Mason seems confused on being a princess or a prince. Marty says there is no question as to him being a prince. He is all boy and it's a big change having it in a house of 3 girls. Marty thinks it is us girls that is confusing him because he loves to carry around purses and playing with a baby doll (which Marty go rid of) that he found in one of the girls closets.

Well I hope this update pleases everyone and I promise to keep it up.

Much love to all,

Marty, Tammy, Tori, Madison & Mason

A family of 5

2006-05-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted lately but things have been crazy here but in a good way. I'll update everyone now cause I have heard from many of you that I hadn't.
Mason did so incredibly well on the flight home. Not one problem, he played in the seat between us and entertained himself very well. Took a few cat naps but nothing real long. The 1st flight was 11hrs and it seemed to drag on forever. We arrived in Atlanta at about 4pm and had a 4hr lay over which was probably the most difficult part of the whole trip because Mason wanted to run but the place was so packed so he did fuss some but still no complaints. We got on our flight for Des Moines and I don't even recall the take off because Mason and I were already asleep. A 1/2hr into the flight the captain came on and said we had to return to Atlanta because of mechanical problems. Naturally we were devastated becasue all we wanted was to get back to the girls and they were waiting for us in Des Moines. We returned to Atlanta and changed planes and after about a hr delay we were back on our way to Des Moines. We had a great welcome once we arrived with family and friends waiting for us. It was so wonderful seeing the girls after 3 weeks of being apart and I think Madison grew an inch. Mason instantly went to the girls and it was incredible. It was as if he knew them instantly. It was so nice to have the five of us together at last.
This week has been good. Mason has adjusted to the time change easily, I'd say it only took a day or two and he was on his schedule. He will no longer us the potty now that we are home and he hasn't adjusted to the food. He likes his cheerios, gold fish, bread and that is about it. I was really concerned at first but I figure he will eat when he gets hungry. I always make him a meal anyway and it's there for him to try but he hasn't yet and yes I have tried just about everything. I even bought instant grits at Wal-Mart.
I am lucky enough to be home full-time with Mason and it is such a joy. We laugh so hard during the day and I cherish every moment. Once the girls are home from school I don't seem to exist any longer cause he absolutely loves the girls.
He is talking less and less Russian all the time and starting to pick up English very easily. He adores the dogs which was a huge concern of mine but an unnecessary one cause he now cries when we let them out to go potty, he stands at the door waiting for them to come in.
We are so incredibly happy to be home and there is no place like home in the great USA. Can't wait to introduce Mason to everyone. Thank you all for taking time to check our site.
We love you all.
Marty, Tammy, Tori, Madison & Mason

2006-05-13T05:47:00.000-07:00

The blogspot website apparantely has been down for a couple of days because none of us have been able to get on. Tomorrow we will be home and cannot wait. Mason has adjusted well to the time change in Moscow so hopefully he will do as well in Storm Lake. All our friends got to leave this morning to go home so we had some tearful goodbyes by all. We have made some incredible friendships out of the process and plan to keep in touch in years to come.

2006-05-08T02:08:00.000-07:00

Our final exit from the orphanage. I can't even begin to explain how well things went. Can't wait to tell everyone once we are home. 5 more days and counting. Thursday we leave for Moscow at 6am. Can't wait to get out of Krasnoyarsk but we hope to be back someday and show Mason where his heritage all began. 12-14 years if we have any travels who would like to come along.

Mason's first car ride went great. We had another couple with us that their little boy cried practically the whole time and I thought maybe Mason would start up but he never did. He just looked out the window and talked. We have learned the word baca (bye-bye) and he says it alot. He stands at the hotel door of our room and says it to go. Today we went outside and fed the pigeons with another family and he had a great time just running around.

Mason has been wonderful about going on the potty. Everytime we put him on it he goes. If we mention potty he goes and starts to pull down his pants. If you could pick up a potty for us mom before we get home that would be great.

Look girls at what daddy is doing to Mason already. For now Mason thinks it funny. Like the rest of us--that won't last long

Mason is great sleeper, we put him in the crib and asleep he goes. (See the giraffe Madi) Hey dad, it would be great to have the crib up cause I don't know how well he'll adjust to the toddler bed right away. Thanks.

Mason has taught us so much. I love the little man with all my heart but I also can't wait to get home to my two beautiful girls. I miss them terribly so. So does dad. We aren't a family till all five of us are together. Everyday is one day closer.

One journey is coming to a close but another is just beginning.

OKAY! OKAY! I'M SORRY I DIDN'T BLOG YESTERDAY BUT I'M A MOM TO A 2yr OLD.

2006-05-06T22:37:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry about not posting yesterday but we had a lot of running around to do for paperwork and passport photos to take.
Everything went so incredibly well I couldn't even believe it. We arrived at the orphanage at approach. 8:30am and when we got there they stripped him of his clothes, changed him and off we went. Apparently they try to do it quickly because it is hard on the caretakers seeing the kids go. His one caretaker cried as we were leaving. She dressed him in his new duds and Mason thought he was so cool-he beamed from ear to ear. As she was dressing him she was talking to him and she started crying. I tried not to look at her cause it was hard enough because we were so excited and she was loosing someone she has taken care of for almost 2 years.
We got into the van and they usually cry because they either haven't been in a vehicle before or if they have it is only to the hospital. Mason just took it all in and watched out the window. Never cried once. Another family was in the van with us with their new little boy and he cried pretty much the entire time. It didn't seem to bother Mason one bit.
When we got to the hotel after all the running we took Mason into the room and he became an instant ham. He is so funny. I think they were giving him something to calm him on our visits because he is an animal--all in a good way. He never spoke a word on our visits and now he is talking constantly. We really thought it was sentences in Russian and our translator told us it was probably blabish but when he came to our room and Mason started talking he couldn't believe how much and how clearly. Mason even started a conversation with a Russian gentlemen walking down the hall and the man talked right back to him. Mason loves to get attention and is always trying to make us laugh. He is hilarious.
Our first nap went very well and we just laid him in the crib and he played with his animals (he loves the giraffe you gave him Madi) and went right to sleep. Today's nap was a little more difficult but he again laid down and went to sleep.
We are putting him on his potty chair and he goes everytime. We have had quite a few dry diapers. That is going much better then I anticipated.
His first bath he did not care for much at all. They just hose down the kids at the orphanage and so giving him a bath was pretty scary for him. I think we will skip it tonight.
Last night we cuddled on the couch for a few minutes and then I carried him into his crib and he went right down. He slept from about 9pm--7am. Right on schedule.
Today we all gathered in the lounge and the kids all played and us parents compared our nights sleep. Mason realized the long hall and sent Marty running after him and it became an instant game for the two of them that went on for about 45 minutes.
I can't post pic's again today--who knows why, it's probably me. I'll try again tomorrow.

One more day and counting!!!

2006-05-05T01:35:00.000-07:00

Today when Mason walked into our visit he ran up to me with his arms out. It was breathe taking. I fall in love with this little boy more and more each day. Today was another great day in the interaction we had between the three of us. He's warming up to Marty more all the time. Here in the pic he climb up on Marty's chest and Marty acted like he fell back and Mason just laughed so hard.
Tomorrow morning at 8am we get to go and pick him up forever. We are so excited and making it an early night so that we are rested up for the big day. No more afternoon naps for us but we are willing to give that up for him.
Another holiday is Monday & Tuesday and we don't know yet if the business office will be open or not so there might not be any posts so don't be alarmed if you don't hear from us.
Much love to all. 9 days left and we are home. Can't wait to see everyone.

Nothing new

2006-05-04T02:11:00.000-07:00

Can't get pictures to down load for some reason (kinda a guessing game when most things are in Russian on the computer) so I will try again tomorrow. We did get into a much bigger room today and we are very excited about that. Got all settled and then went to lunch at the hotel cafe. It has been snowing most of the day although not really that cold. We went to the toy store today and got Mason a potty chair (some of the kids are having a hard time going potty in their diapers that the parents put on them when they are used to sitting on a bucket) and hopefully that will help him out. Yesterday when he had his accidents he did not indicate at all that he had to go so it's a timing thing. After we got back from toy store & market (had to get more vodka--it's the best, we'll try to bring some home for everyone to take a shot--very smooth) we took our daily afternoon nap. I don't know what we are going to do when we get home because we are in such habits of laying down in the afternoon and sleeping for an hour. And now I'm here in the business office. Not real exciting today but tonight we will go out for supper with everyone and then sit around till about 10:00 and back to bed again. We do get to see Mason tomorrow so it really helps pass up the time.
Let you know more tomorrow. Miss everyone.

PEE & POOP

2006-05-03T01:56:00.000-07:00

Mason was so glad to see us today. He smiled as soon as he saw us. He came up to me and put out his arms. Definetely a mama's boy. What a pleasant greeting. We have completely turned the corner in his acceptance.
When they bring Mason in he is in underwear and as Marty is holding him up on the windowsill to look out and Mason p-e-e-d (spelled out for you Dawn) all over the sill and Marty's hands. We cleaned him up and they came in with a change of clothes (Marty absolutely did not like his outfit today, you can't really see it in the picture but he had brown shoes, orange socks, pink shorts and a funky top) and we quickly began playing again. Not more then 10 minutes Marty is looking at me with the look of disgust. He could smell something and naturally his first thought was it was me. (Why?) We looked down on the floor and Mason had pooped on the floor and down all over his legs etc. (very messy & runny/no details left out). Once again we got him cleaned up and they brought yet another set of clothes. Mason was like a new man. He played so hard and belly laughed. We got it on video and can't wait to show everyone.

We don't get to go back tomorrow but will see him again on Friday and pick him up on Saturday to be with us forever. We are so excited. I wish I could show expression on the computer but I am jumping out of my skin right now.

This has been so much more fulfilling then I could have ever imagained. We have got to have the best agency (GOL-Beth you are awesome) and facilitators (Aleks and Yelena) we have been so welcomed here by them and they take such great care of us. Aleks and Marty love to give eachother a hard time. We have met some of the most amazing people through this experience and made some great lifetime friends. I couldn't be happier. We don't even spend much time in the room anymore because families are starting to get their babies and we that don't have our kids yet do a lot of running for things that the other families need. It helps pass the time for us. If any of the other families are any indication--you don't leave your room once you get the child for first 1-2 days. Some kids have adjusted great and love to come out and play with all of us adults (we call it the adult orphanage) and others are just so overwhelmed and take some more time. I feel Mason is going to love the freedom of the motel and the very long halls. All the families are on one floor and they have a lobby area that we all congregate at and visit for hours.

Tomorrow I'm going to post pictures of our current room (we got VERY small room till tomorrow) cause you guys will not believe it. I think Marty has a total of 3 steps he can take in his pacing modes.

Better go. Much love to all. We are half way through and miss everyone terribly.

2006-05-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

This is my all time favorite picture. He is so precious. I can't wait to get him on Saturday. Today we witnessed a family getting their little girl brought to them today and it just gives you goosebumps. Our time is slowly coming. I'm so jealous of all the families already bonding. Our time will come.
Visits are getting better all the time. We have an organizer on our hands girls..dad has someone on his side (for the time being). He loves having everything in place and stops what he is doing if something gets knocked over to pick it up and place it properly the way he had it. If he takes something out of the bag he puts it back before taking another.

We got to go to the local zoo on Sunday and it was fun. Something different to do.
Aleks took us to a look out point and we got to see the view of the river and city from here. It is the 4th largest river in the world and runs north to the Artic Ocean. It was a beautiful day and it was nice to be able to get out of the hotel for something else to do.

There is some story about this giant sturgis but I can't recall it so just enjoy the goofy picture.

Love to get your comments so please keep sending.

OKAY, so daddy isn't so bad after all.

2006-04-30T02:52:00.000-07:00

This was our visit on Friday and all completely turned around. Thank goodness for goldfish crackers.
Today we went to the zoo and didn't get back till late and only have 2 minutes before business office closes. It will not be open tomorrow because of holiday so I will do more on Tuesday. We get to go back and see him again tomorrow. It's been a long weekend not being able to see him.
Love to all.

We are so bored.

2006-04-29T00:53:00.000-07:00

Today we have not accomplished much but wanted to write and just let you know how things are.
Every morning we are waking up around 7am, only cause Marty makes me of course, he has usually stirred for about 2 hrs already by that time. He's telling everyone here that I would sleep 24hrs if he allowed me too. The way I look at it is that there is not much else to do right now and as of next Saturday we will have Mason and we are to keep on a strict schedule given from the orphanage and he is to be awake at 7:30 each morning.
We went on a walk down by the river today and it is a breath taking view unless you look down at the waters edge and you see all the garbage they leave behind. It is so sad cause it is so beautiful here and they leave garbage everywhere--I'm not kidding, beer bottles are broken everywhere and there doesn't seem to be a drinking age because all ages have beers in their hands very early in the morning. There was a young couple down by the waters edge making out--very heavy--and I tried to get Marty to do the same but of course he just shook his head at me like always :o)
We went to the market (grocery store) and bought items to keep in our room--meat (I thought was meat) bread (very hard bread). We made sandwiches when we got back and I had to pass it to Marty cause I don't think they cook their meat. You all would be so proud of me cause I am trying all kinds of new things (not by choice of course cause you just point at the menu and hope it's what you think it is) can't complain to much because I haven't had to many bad things because of course I always choose safe things but Marty on the other hand eats it all. The other day Marty drank a glass of milk here and I told him if he drank it I would no longer kiss him--of course he drank it, but it was worth the funny disgusted look that came across his face. He's just dying for a tall glass of milk while I am dying for a Pepsi--everything is Coke :o( I have seen a Pepsi truck so I know they are going somewhere I've just got to find where.
One thing I do have to say about being here is that the women are gorgeous looking and nice bodies to boot but the odd thing is that the men are nothing to look at so you see a lot of women walking around arm and arm. They all wear stiletto hills too, young and old.
It will probably be Wednesday before we get to see Mason again because Monday is a Russian holiday (May day) and Tuesday is the day couples go to court so we have a lot of time to do nothing. 3 couples did get their kids today so it does help with having them around to entertain us.
Talk more tomorrow:o)

Thursday was a great day.

2006-04-27T23:35:00.000-07:00

We got to see Mason yesterday and it was great. He did not come in crying and he warmed up to Marty. He started the visit off by not leaving my lap but quickly Marty got him to play and shortly Mason was on his lap. We played so hard and Mason had some laughing spells that just made us beam with pride. After the visit I realized we did not have the video camera on so won't be able to share it when we get home but I will forever remember. We are unable to got see him today (friday) or this weekend so we have to entertain ourselves. It is very difficult being away when we are so close. Last night we went out with some of the other couples and it has been a lot of fun meeting everyone. We do alot of walking around shopping and site seeing to help pass by time. We have found some great restuarants and have tried some really great food.
All is going well, we miss the kids terribly. I'll continue to post more as we continue.

Today was a better day.

2006-04-26T01:46:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone. Today we saw Mason and things were a little better. He walked into the room with caregiver and he turned around to walk out as soon as he saw us. Marty and I began to panic. I went to him and picked him up and he cried for only a moment. We quickly learned that if we gave him food he was much happier so we got out the gold fish crackers and quickly we were a hit. He clung to me mostly and if Marty bribed him with a cracker he would go get it and get back to me as quickly as possible. He cracked a few smiles but not a whole lot. It was so wonderful having him cling to me like he did but I could see the hurt in Marty's eyes. We now understand the purpose of the 10 day waiting because it would have been to traumitizing for Mason to have just removed him from the only place he has know all his life. Tomorrow we go back and they are going to let us take him outside if it's nice and go for a walk.
We met up with a lot of couples also here to adopt and we sat around and drank a few beers and got to know one another. We are having a good time considering the difficulty of being away from the girls is very hard.
Today we went for a walk and got some excercise. We went shopping at a store but it is so difficult to read the tags that we didn't buy anything. We are having to shop and find some cooler clothing for us. It is 90degrees in the rooms at the orphanage and we sweat terrible when we are there so we are going to look for short sleeves. We walk around with out a jacket and the Russians are still bundling up as if it was cold and it's in the upper 60's.
I'll post more tomorrow and hopefully all goes well with Mason.

2006-04-25T02:36:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone. Marty and I arrived in Moscow on Saturday and stayed for about 6 hours in which we got a hotel just to sleep. We then flew out to Krasnoyarsk that same night and arrived at about 6:00am Sunday. Monday morning we went to see Mason for the 1st time and it was devestating. He cried when they left him with us and it took a few minutes to get him to stop. I was able to hold him and once I did he would not let me put him down. He held a ball up to his face to prevent him from having to look at Marty. Marty was just heart broken. Mason would not let him look, touch or say anything to him with out crying. We were finally able to get him to stop by feeding him rice crispy treats, we couldn't feed it fast enough and he just keep it in his mouth. Before we knew it the 2 hours were up and they came to get him and he lept out of my arms. Hopefully all will go better when we see him on Wednesday. Today we had court and all the stress we were putting ourselves through was unneccessary. The judge made it final after about 45 minutes of questions. Marty had to answer for the most part, which I was thankful for, and I finished us up. After a short recess the judge announced us as parents of Mason James Paul Peck. It was a very happy moment. Tonight we will celebrate with another couple that also had court with us.
I'll continue to keep in touch and hopefully I'm able to start including pictures soon.