Hi there!
Welcome to my family's blog. I am Aly, the mom. My husband, Kirk, and I are the parents of 3 precious children. Our home is in Arkansas, The Natural State. Our firstborn daughter, Hope, lives in Heaven. We remembered her 5th birthday last November 5. We also have two lively 3-year old children, Ian and Janie. And no, they are not twins. They were born 7 months apart and Janie is older. Our family has grown through birth and international adoption (DR Congo).
Last year was a roller coaster ride of activity for us. The highest point was Janie's homecoming in November. Our "paper pregnancy" took 10 months to complete. Janie's transition into our family has been way better than I had anticipated. Sure, we've had some difficulties (tantrums, language barriers, etc.) but her resilience is amazing. I know that not every family who adopts has that experience and we know we are truly blessed. Now that Janie has been home for 3 months I can't picture our family without her in it. Of our two lively children I would say Ian has had a more challenging time adapting to life with a sibling around. He does enjoy playing with Janie and is quick to say "I need space!" Life with these two kiddos is never boring.
The lowest point of the year was the loss of Kirk's mother, Carolyn, from complications of cancer in April. We miss her and feel her absence at family gatherings. After Carolyn's death I read an article by David Servan-Schreiber, MD, PhD, about food and it's role in cancer prevention and treatment. A foodie at heart, my attention was captured and I bought his book "Anticancer: A New Way of Life." Reading the hard core research that supports a holistic approach to cancer prevention and treatment has encouraged me to make changes for my family. Now, Kirk calls me his chick because he claims I'm cheap but I really believe that eating organic foods, using eco-friendly cleaners, and exercise doesn't have to break the bank. We've in the beginning of making these changes and you are welcome to journey along with us.
Aly, love your blog and look forward to reading more! We are going through a similar process with food as well, so this will be interesting!
ReplyDeleteAly! A blog! Finally I can peek in your life without ringing the phone. I am going to resist the urge to join you in blogging and happily pepper on some comments in my occasional computer break. You don't have to update constantly or anything, just one post a month adds up a lot over time.
ReplyDeleteCancer is a natural part of humanity. But diet and lifestyle have a huge impact on rates!
Thanks Girls! I am looking forward to hearing you both chime in as we journey along together.
ReplyDeleteFun Aly to see your blog! :) Can't wait to keep up with you...
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