Nikki turns 14!!

So- Nikki turns 14! I can't believe it. As I contemplate the last four years since she has been here - I am more enthralled with her every day. She is my caterpillar who has blossomed into a butterfly. Nikki never ceases to amaze me. She grows more beautiful as the days go by. She is smart, voluptuous, intelligent, gentle, kind, soft-spoken, witty, and just full of charity.

Nikki - I KNEW that you were mine. As it states in our story of the Russian adoption -I worried over you - I fretted - I wondered if you were cold. I am so glad that you are mine and I am yours. You are such a compliment to your sisters, who adore you. You are loved by all who meet you.

The world is yours, Nikki. Go out and get it!

Her picture will be up in a few days! School pictures just came in - we just have to scan them.

We love you!

Mom - Dad - Aliana - Cami - Frankie!

Joseph Smith - The Prophet

I add my testimony to that of many others. I know that Joseph Smith is a true prophet of God! This gospel of Jesus Christ was restored through a true and living prophet. I want all to know I know this for myself!

LDS Leaders warn us and encourage us to fortify our homes

After watching conference - this was sent to me. I REALLY like it - and it opened my eyes. Listen to it - you will feel the spirit of it - and I hope with all my heart you will gain a testimony of it.

I love the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Elder McKell's shaved head!

So - Elder McKell plays soccer last week. Well - in order to get "INTO" the game - his companion and him decide to shave their heads like mohawks. HAHAHA! Well - on the way home from the coast - an hour and a half away... they have to stop at the Mission President's office. So - they can't let the Mission President see them like that, right?? So - they put hoodies on, like the gansta's they are (it's P-day) and go in. Of course, they are greeted immediately by Pres. Dyches! (Which makes it all the more funnier!) He is thinking "I am SO going to get busted"!

Well - they finally made it home - and they had to shave their heads. Here is a picture of Elder McKell. Te Quiero!!! AND - 424242!!

Relative Humility

Well - this morning was REALLY fun! (When you listen to this - just turn our music off at the right). Amy, my daughter in law, called us the other day, and said the the popular radio station G105 was having a contest based on a new television series, "Opportunity Knocks". Well, we called in and became one of the families that would be involved in the contest! We each had to answer a series of questions to see how well we know our family.

NO CHEATING ALLOWED! =) The girls were up for it - and we had a blast. It took a few days to complete - and then we were live on the air at about 8am this morning. WE WON!! We won a really cool camera (worth over $200.00 bucks) and some Janet Jackson Tix and some backstage passes!! We get some free T-Shirts..and we will see what else. We won 7-2.

Listen and enjoy!

Vinny's Parents

Vinny's parents are just the greatest! They raised the man I love to be the man he is today. "Nana" (Mom) is always doing for others, sending out little gifts for the girls, writing me little letters, calling to check on me. She truly cares, and it really shows. She has a contagious smile and laugh and she knows EVERYBODY! Once you know her, she is your friend. Plus - I've never seen ANYONE drive an RV quite like Mom! =) She is the best, and I truly admire her. I want her to know how much I love her for making me feel so much a part of the family.

"Granddad" (Dad) - well - what can I say about him? He is adored by his grandchildren, looked up to by his children, and he is a good - honest - decent man. He stands for integrity, honesty, he is a true Christian. He is always supportive of us, and I'm astounded sometimes at all the things that he taught Vinny to do as a young boy/man. It seems he is the best handyman ever.

We sometimes take our parents for granted, but I really felt like writing today and thanking our parents for making us who we are. Thank you Mom and Dad, for all you do for us. We love you so much!

My Parents

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As I have gone through my older years, there have been many times when I have turned to my parents - and they have had good council for me. I will never forget a about ten-twelve years ago, when my Dad felt very prompted to sit down and write a letter on Pride. I hold that letter in highest esteem. It seems that he is always there when we need him.

These past few weeks/months have been very trying on us. We have turned to the Lord so many times. And Vinny has called my Dad - (he calls him "Pops") to talk of gospel things. Last night my Dad felt once again impressed to talk to us about a talk from General Conference by David Bednar -" The Tender Mercies of the Lord."

I just want my parents to know how much we love them. I'm so glad I was raised in a home with the gospel - being taught gospel principles and learning correct truths. I was hugged and loved and told "I love you" daily. We knelt in family prayer. We had scripture study. We had family home evening. We were taught to love one another and be Christlike.

I truly love you, Mom and Dad. I just want you to know. You are the best. Thank you for your undying support and love. You may not be rich in the things of the world, but you are the richest people I know in the things of the gospel.

What a Missionary!

This week has been somewhat challenging. We have found ourselves calling upon the Lord several times. We have decided that no matter what - we will put our lives in the Lord's hands and do His will. Once we decided that -we have felt great peace.

In the midst of all of this - we received a beautiful letter from Morgan's mission president, President Dyches. Vinny wrote a book called "Grace Divine" and sent it to him. It is truly a marvelous book - and we have had several wonderful comments about it - it is available for sale on his Celestine Publishing site. (On the right hand side of our blog). I just have to share some of the comments of that letter.

He thanked us for the book, and talked specifically about two chapters. He said it would help him teach about the importance of grace with those who perhaps feel we approach salvation by "earning our way to heaven".
He said a few other things and ended with this.

"Elder McKell is an outstanding Elder. I want you to know that he teaches the Gospel with power and inspiration. He is an excellent mentor to his companion.

May the Lord bless you always in His work."


I just had to share. This letter uplifted our hearts, warmed our very souls, and touched our lives. Elder McKell is doing AWESOME! We are SO SO proud of him!! Elder McKell's letter this week talked of a woman that he had the opportunity of getting ready to baptize. He is a District Leader, and though he has is struggles at times, he LOVES the work he is doing. He loves his companion, and he loves his Mission President. He loves the gospel - and I am so touched by hearing the man he has become. He is a breath of fresh air - and I miss him and love him so much! Te quiero, Elder McKell!

The soup that kept on giving

I want to share this story with you - because I was reminded of it this weekend. It was used in a Stake Relief Society Women's Conference - about how small acts of kindness can make a huge difference. I was asked to submit an article -so I did. It brought back a lot of memories.

At any rate - I felt it worth sharing. I hope you like it!


When Morgan was about twelve - and he and I lived in Bountiful Utah - I made a huge pot of homemade chicken noodle soup. I had so much it was running out of my ears. I was really close to our Ward Mission Leader (a sister) -and her husband that was in our Bishopric. So I called her and said - "Hey - I have all this soup - do you want some?"

She said yes - and came to get some. When she saw how much I had - she instantly said... "Dana - how about we take a bunch of containers and feed as many people we can tonight?" So Morgan, Marilyn and I went through my cupboards and filled up any container we could. She also got some from her home. Her husband dutifully drove us around the ward, taking soup to the Bishop's family whose wife just had surgery, to members I didn't even know were in our ward, (not active) and people who were old and sick. I think we delivered about 12 containers of soup that evening. It was a great experience for Morgan and myself.
Now - this "Small Act" made a HUGE difference in our lives. Why? Well, when we got back to our small apartment that we lived in, our pot of soup was still full to the brim - and looked as if it had never been touched!! Marilyn and I were so startled!! Morgan ran ahead, yelling, "Look, look, look at the soup!" From a small act - we gave the soup that kept on giving. We were able to go out and give more and more and more - and feed many more families that night. What a HUGE difference that made in my life and in a 12 year old boy's life and in a Ward Mission Leader's life - to see how Heavenly Father can and WILL provide for the people who need and are in need - even if it is just soup.

Cami and her love for her Mommy

So - tonight Cami sneaks in Vinny's office and gets on the computer. She works for 2-3 hours straight - and asks me not to peek. So I don't. Just a short while ago -she comes to me, and hands me a paper.


I just have to share it. It's so so sweet. She wrote 101 reasons she loved me. Why? Well - a few years back, I wrote one for Morgan, and then Vinny - and then when the girls came - I wrote one for them. I totally forgot about it. Until tonight. Until my sweet ten year old adopted daughter reminded me how much she loved me. How I laughed and cried at the same time, all the while holding her in my arms.

Cami - I love you. You are a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. I'm so glad that Heavenly Father whispered "pick her" even though I was scared of getting a six year old at the time. You are my sweet pea baby girl - and you fill me with such joy.

Here are Cami's reasons. Enjoy! ( I have not gone back and re-spelled anything).



My Name is Cami DiGirolamo and these are 100 reasons I love my Mom

1. She makes me laugh.
2. She makes me food.
3. She takes me shopping
4. She buys me lots of toys.
5. She is a great drawer.
6. She colors great.
7. She is the best mom ever.
8. She helps me with my hair.
9. She helps me with homework.
10. She plays greedy guts with me.
11. She reminds me to brush my teeth.
12. She got me a Michael Jackson CD.
13. I am pretty like her.
14. She got me from Russia.
15. She taught me how to speak English.
16. She reads stories to me.
17. She got me a cell phone.
18. She let me use her makeup.
19. She let me use everything of hers.
20. She shows funny videos to me.
21. She makes me dance.
22. She makes me sing.
23. She is goofy.
24. She is nice.
25. She likes g 1.05
26. She gives me money.
27. She lets me go places.
28. She lets me sleep in her bed when dad is gone.
29. She takes us to get hot donuts at 6:00 in the morning.
30. She takes me to good berries.
31. She takes me swimming.
32. She makes great breakfast.
33. She likes to spend time with family.
34. She loves dogs.
35. She loves purses
36. She takes me to McDonalds.
37. She designs pretty.
38. She loves frank Sinatra.
39. She loves Frankie.
40. She loves clean house.
41. She entertains me when I am bored.
42. She loves the temple.
43. She loves church.
44. She loves mama mia.
45. She loves the young woman’s program.
46. She loves me.
47. She loves her scriptures.
48. She loves wheel of fortune.
49. She loves shabby Sheik.
50. She takes me to the mall.
51. She lets me buy anything I want.
52. She loves the gospel.
53. She supports people in what they do.
54. She knows how to be a mom.
55. She knows how to fix problems.
56. She loves to play the piano.
57. She loves to sing.
58. She loves to dance.
59. She loves to be funny.
60. She loves to give people things
61. She loves to share.
62. She buys me my school clothes.
63. She is brave.
64. She has a lot of courage.
65. She taught me how to read.
66. She taught me how to have a good person ality.
67. She picks me up at school.
68. She is great at riming.
69. She sings wonderful.
70. She cares about people.
71. She is great at playing the piano.
72. her songs make me feel happy.
73. She loves her computer.
74. She has creative imagination.
75. She has a lot of cool things.
76. She types very fast.
77. She gives me lunch money.
78. She is great at reading.
79. She is great at writing.
80. She is great at spelling.
81. She is very smart.
82. She has fun ways to study tests.
83. She rocks my life.
84. She has pretty hair.
85. I like her style.
86. She plays with me.
87. She knows how to shop.
88. She loves to watch America’s next top model.
89. She loves to talk like me.
90. She reminds me of everything.
91. She cares of what I do.
92. She loves her family.
93. She loves to hear my dreams even if they take the whole day.
94. She loves to hear about my days.
95. She loves to express herself.
96. She does my laundry.
97. She makes sure my room is clean.
98. She makes sure I am prepared for my days.
99. She is honest.
100. She loves to watch deal or no deal.
101. Forty Two means I Love You!

Temple Trip With Missionary Moms!

What a fun day Friday was! All the moms in our ward who had missionaries out, got together with the Wake Forest ward, and went to the Raleigh Temple in Apex! Oh what a joy it was - to talk about our sweet missionaries - and to feel the spirit. We met at Panara Bread for brunch first - and just talked. I really really enjoyed meeting one sweet woman in particular, whose name is Kathryn. Come to find out, her brother is my son, Elder McKell's, Mission President!! We had so much to talk about!! She was from the falls lake ward! I loved her immediately. (We had cooresponded a few times before we actually met). At any rate... I couldn't have been with a finer group of women. I LOVE going to the temple, and feeling the spirit there.

There is a quote I would like to share with you that I carry in the back of my scriptures, and have for about seven years. It's from Jeffery R. Holland - and taken from a speech of his from 1980. It's called "FOR TIMES OF TROUBLE."
This is the part of the talk that I have in my scriptures.

:In the gospel of Jesus Christ you have help from both sides of the veil, and you must never forget that. When disappointment and discouragement strike - and they will - you remember and never forget that if our eyes could be opened we would see horses and chariots of fire as far as the eye can see riding at reckless speed to come to our protection. They will always be there, these armies of heaven, in defense of Abraham's seed. (2 Kings:16-17) Isn't this wonderful?? I LOVE IT!

Elder McKell is doing so great!! He was made District Leader- and wrote a very poignant letter to his mission president about how he thought he was doing. It was very thought provoking. I love him very much and I am so grateful for the sacrifice he has made to serve the Lord for two years. He is still my "Mowgie", but he is different. He is now a man who knows who he is, and is teaching me ever so much. I thank my Heavenly Father every day for this wonderful experience. I am thankful for all my new "missionary moms" for sharing this wonderful experience with me. I have four beautiful sons, and three beautiful sons-in law. I wouldn't trade one of them. I am proud of each and every one of them.

I'm so grateful for the gospel of Jesus Christ - and how it connects us all together. I can't wait to go to Utah and go to the new temple by my son's house when it's open! Maybe us "girls" should start saving........... =)

And now I can announce something REALLY exciting!!!

Casey and Whit are expecting!!! YAY!!!! I'm so excited!! Whit informed me by having Holden "call me" and say "I'm going to be a big brother". It was so cute. I was laughing and crying at the same time. I want so bad to move back to Utah and be with them! A new grandbaby. A new gift from Heavenly Father. Thank you! We are thrilled. =)

Time for a testimony

Yesterday was Sunday. Cami and Nikki decided to drive home with me from church while Aliana waited for Vinny. On the way home, I told the girls that the missionaries were coming over that afternoon. Cami got quiet for a minute. Then she asked me if she could bear her testimony. I was surprised, but of course I said yes. Cami went on to bear one of the most beautiful testimonies I have ever heard. I was so touched. Suddenly Nikki spoke up. "Can I bear mine too, Mom?" she asked. Well of course the answer was yes - and so then I was delighted and touched to hear a second testimony from my other daughter. After they were done, I felt the spirit of it, and I asked them if I could bear my testimony to them. Yes, they said - and so I did. I felt so special as we turned into the driveway. I asked Cami what had made her decide to do that. "Well," she replied matter-of-factly, "the ,missionaries challenged us to bear our testimonies a few weeks ago, and since they are coming to check up on us today, I decided I better get it done". Nikki nodded her head in agreement. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH! Here I thought my kids were having some kind of "spiritual moment all on their own - and they were trying to get their "quota" done. It was cool though, Aliana bore hers when she got home and we told her about what happened in the car. Vinny did too. It ended up being a really neat start to our afternoon. And we were proud to report to the missionaries, that we had indeed born our testimonies that week!

So Dad has a birthday!

Well Aug 17 has come and gone - but Vinny celebrated his 53rd birthday! We had a great time with family and friends - and had a fun get together. The girls had a blast shopping for him - and we appreciate everyone calling and coming over! What a fun day! Enjoy the pictures. Thanks for the homemade bread, Mom and Dad!! YUMMMMMMMMMMM!! All the way from Utah!! =)

Back to school!! FINALLY!

So there we were. School shopping. Just us girls. Daddy stayed home with Frankie, our shit-zhu and boy did we have a blast. There is a special bond between Mothers and daughters and school shopping. Don't get me wrong, I liked taking my boys - but they were a lot different than taking girls. For one thing - back then they never had anything cute like they do now - and boys would wear anything. And I remember by the time Morgan graduated - he was SO picky about where he shopped.... OUCH. But we had so much fun yesterday. We stayed within our budget - in fact - we stayed well below it and boy was Dad pleased! Then we came home and had the famous "fashion show". I think that's my favorite part. Watching the girls get all dolled up and deciding what they are wearing the first day of school. NIkki and Aliana are now registered for school. They are both going to take Spanish this year so they can talk to Morgan when he gets off his mission! HAHAHAHAH! I think that's hilarious. Cami seems to really like her new teacher - I can't believe she will be in middle school next year and the girls will be in high school next year. Didn't they just get here??? Where does time go? They are wonderful young ladies - and they are growing so fast. All they want for Christmas is to go to Utah to visit family. That's their only wish. I hope we can make it happen. At any rate.. say hi to the "goils". Aren't they pretty?

All the cousins from Raleigh and New York!

We had a family fun day with our cousins from New York. Pictured here are Tallie and Mike - Chris and Eddie - Julie and her boyfriend, Sondro and Chellie - and the girls - David and Amy - and Hailey -Chris's friend - (I can't remember his name) and me. Vinny must have been taking the picture. We love family here!@! Thanks for coming and seeing us. This was just before we moved.

Elder Mckell

Elder Mckell : Hi Mom!!!

Randy Pausch Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams

What a great man! I will always remember him as a great individual who taught me something. Thanks, Randy!

What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong

Watch. And then smile. =) A pure classic.

Aliana turns 14!

Pictures are coming soon! We just have to download them. Aliana turned 14 on Saturday. It was a real treat. Aliana, you have brought much joy into our lives. I have watched you grow with much amusement, and much amazement. You are such a typical teenager! You love all the things that every girl your age loves, and that's a good thing. You are so beautiful! Never forget how much your Mother loves you, Aliana. Never. I will always be here for you. You make my life so much better!

We had Nana and Granddad here from New York Friday night and had a huge bbq with a lot of family and friends. She had a great time and Saturday we went shopping. It's so fun to watch her grow and develop into such a beautiful young lady. She is now a Mia-Maid. Unbelievable!! My Mom bought her the cutest outfit for school while she was out here for her birthday. So - this week we are just missing everyone and reading everyone's blog's from Utah and really feeling family. Last night for Family Home Evening, we wrote Uncle Boyd letters and sent them out to him. He has been an amazing influence in our lives. We really love him a lot.

Vinny has been busy visiting with the Chinese this week. We have been busy still trying to get settled into our house. Elder McKell is doing fantastic! He was made District Leader, and we are so very proud of him. We love his letters, and we are sending him a care package this week.

We miss and love you all. Pictures are soon coming!!

Utah and family

Well - I just got back from Utah - and I have to say it was hard to leave. I was so happy to see Holden - always the highlight of my trip... and I taught him how to do the "hoky poky". I love how when I go there - it's just like we left off the time before. Whit and Casey are wonderful hosts, and I got to see Mikey there also. Clint came down from Ogden, and I got to spend a special evening with him. My parents are wonderful - I miss them so much. My sisters had sister day, and I got to see my Aunt Nadine and my cousins that I haven't seen in years there. It was really fun. The BEST part, was my mom came home with me for a week!!! She just left yesterday. It was so great having her here, having her love and support, I really appreciated it. ANYONE ELSE WANNA COME OUT??????????? OPEN INVITE!!! The girls went to the beach with Vinny when I went to Utah- and I came home to fried red people. HAHAH! They forgot their suntan lotion or sunblocker. Actually - it wasn't funny. But - They miss Utah as much as I do - and I just want everyone out there to know how much I love them and appreciate them. Thanks Whit for making my page so pretty - you did a fantastic job.

So - that's been the highlight of my summer so far. Aliana will be fourteen in three days - can you believe that?? ARGGG. She will be a mia - maid. I love being in Young Women's with the girls. It's awesome.

Oh - In Utah- I got to drive past the new South Jordan Temple. I can't remember what it's called but it's amazing. I can't wait till I can go through it.

Have a HAPPY DAY!

Frankie in on the action - he loves his blankies!!

Nikki crocheting - both girls doing it for Young Women's project!! Go girls!!

Aliana crocheting a afghan! How pretty!

How DO you know? =)

We LOVE this song. Everybody start singing!!

Time for a Solemn Assembly

In the last General Conference, we were honored to raise our hands and stand to sustain our new Prophet and his counselors. President Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, and Dieter F. Uchtdorf were sustained in an historic solemn assembly. How comforting it is to know that the work of the Lord goes on - and to see these great men take charge and lead us in these latter days. As President Monson said " As your hands were raised toward heaven, my heart was touched. I felt your loved and support, as well as your commitment to the Lord."

I watched with tears as my girls got to stand as members as young women. I thought of Elder McKell, who has been out in the field thirteen months, giving up his precious time working so hard for the Lord as a missionary. His sacrifice has been so sweet and humbling to us. I watched my sweetheart stand as a high priest. This conference was one I will not soon forget.

I loved Elder Lance B Wickman's talk on seeking forgiveness while extending charity to others. He stated we should not postpone matters of repentance until tomorrow. Today is the day to forgive others their trespasses, secure in the knowledge that the Lord will thus forgive ours... Perfection may elude us here, but we can be merciful. And in the end, repenting and forgiving are among God's chief requirements of us.

I am not perfect. In saying such - if I have offended anyone - I am truly sorry - and will strive harder every day to become more and more Christlike.

Living the Gospel

We, collectively and individually, as a family, number one in our lives, love to live the gospel of Jesus Christ. He is our Lord and Savior. Vinny and I are now studying and reading "Preach My Gospel" - Elder McKell has challenged to do so. We can't believe or would want to know where our lives would be without the atonement that our Elder Brother, even Jesus Christ made for us, so that we can repent and go on to fill the measure of our creation. We want to share the "good news" with everyone out there. We invite all to read your scriptures as a family, say individual and family prayers together, go to the Temple often, and attend your meetings. Keep close to your Father in Heaven, for He truly loves you and watches over you. We, as a family, have a divine testimony of this. Although we are not perfect, and bear many faults, we truly try to love one another, and try to bear each other's burdens, and try not to talk about other people. We LOVE our faith! We hope all who practice any faith to do the same.

Musings on Cami

So there we were. On a journey to get a child in Russia. We were excited and scared at the same time.

They suddenly, across the miles, thousands of miles, this small, scared, sweet face pops up on the internet.

Se is thin. She looks cold. Where is her hair? And yet....... I cry... I see a princess - diamond in this bruised unkept little body of a girl. And so... I make her ours.

Cami. Where do I start. Three years ago a tiny girl with short blond hair and beautiful eyes jumped into our lives. Literally. Jumped. She jumped and sprang from chair to chair. She was delighted when we saw
babushka's" (grandma's) and babies. She didn't come to me as much as the others did at first. She would play on her own for hours at at time. She fought with Aliana. They BOTH wanted to be so right, and the first one to be so.

Cami was so loved at school. Wherever she went she made friends. She loved to color and draw and play in mama's make-up. She loved animals. But could she love me???

So - three years later, Cami is a hauntingly beautiful girl, who only gets prettier by the day. She loves gymnastics, music, animals, coloring, etc.. (mom's make-up). But now, Cami laughs and laughs and laughs!!! She loves me unconditionally. She is silly and talks and talks and talks and talks and talks and talks.. and well, you get the picture. =)

Cami's bubbly personality spills out and effects everyone that comes in contact with her. but most of all, Cami is mommy's girl! We love each other so much, and grow closer every day. I can't imagine life without her, and to think I almost didn't adopt her because I was afraid she was "too young". But Daddy held firm, he wanted that beautiful six year old!! She can read, write, loves school. Oh, Cami, How I love you!!

They are my three bugs,

Aliana - Lady bug - Jitterbug
Nikki - Love Bug - Snuggle bug
Cami Baby bug -Hug bug


For more info on the girls and their stories on how they got here, go to, www.mythreelilttlebugs.blogspot.com

Musings on Nikki

Nikki -

Three years ago, in Stavropol Russia, I found my Nikki.

Those eyes cried out to me seven thousand miles away. And so for seven months I worried over her. Was she cold? Wet? Hungry? Tired? Abused? How I longed for heer.

When Nikki first arrived to her new home in America three years ago, she was happy, friendly, dark olive skin, and somewhat shy. Always content to be in the background, she was the last to ask for anything, always waiting patiently for her turn to come. There were no attitudes on the way the other two girls demanded attention. She accepted that in her quiet unassuming way.

About a year and a half ago, just before we moved from Utah, Nikki finally opened up and literally "busted" out of her shell. Nikki had always been a book worm, always reading, absorbing everything around her like a sponge. She at times had showered us with dry wit, but when she finally exploded, she really "exploded'. What joy! She instantly turned from a shy "pick me last - I don't care girl" to someone, who decided to believe in herself. She is hysterically funny. She is bright, articulate, well read, and extremely happy go lucky. She has a very european exotic beauty look. She doubts herself on her beauty, but Nikki's beauty is VERY special because she doesn't even realize how beautiful she is - she is beautiful in the most beautiful way - INSIDE AND OUT. She has a heart of gold. Nikki can do amazing things with her hands and fingers. She could be a Doctor if she so desired, her hands are that steady and sure. She helps me with my hair, I LOVE it. She would be a great Beautician. Nikki has the world at her fingertips, and it is because she is so well - informed.

She is my Russian Beauty, who defied all odds to be here, with her Mama that loves her so much. Don't ever forget your beauty or your self worth, my little girl, and don't forget your daddy's love either! (Nikki shown in my dress I wore at 18 also)

Musings on the girls

This was written Nov 2nd 2007, on our way to Utah on an airplane. Aliana has asked me to publish it, so here I go.

Well, the girls have been here from Russia for three years now. The journey has been an incredible one. I can't believe that that three short years ago, we went seven thousand miles. It was a great wonderful experience then, and continues to be so.

Aliana came here loud and boisterous. She was demanding, silly and fierce. She knew what she wanted and went after it. At ten years old, she thought she was in charge, and most of the time, we helplessly stood by, and gave her the control so we could translate Russian to English. Not that she understood the English, but she was able to pick up very quickly on things we needed - temporarily- and with keeping both other girls in check. She was a huge help in Russia. (And home in America).

Now, three years later, Aliana has calmed down somewhat - but can still be load and bossy. She doesn't like the teasing and silliness as much as she did before, and sometimes now she is sullen and acts like she is bored to death and just doesn't care about anything. It's called "I'm thirteen now, and I'm all that and a bag of chips". "Word up'!

She is amazingly beautiful, and smiles so delightful that it captures your heart and takes your breath away. She loves to dance, chorus, she loves to sing. She loves music, her IPOD, Frankie, (our shit tzu), and is now big into wearing fashionable clothes. Her hormones are all over the place, (of course, I would be worried if they weren't!).

Would I trade her? Do I ever regret getting her "last minute"? NO!!! NEVER!!! She has added so much dimension, diversity, frustration, giddiness, spirituality, you name it, that I know - yes I KNOW ----Aliana is supposed to BE HERE. She is a gift from up above. Thank you Heavenly Father for her life.

She is very helpful and self sufficient. She has the mind of an engineer - always can figure out how to do something and to put things together. Beauty and brains make for a lethal combination. She is a handful, but has sung her way into our hearts. Also, Aliana is a Daddy's girl!!!! How she is loved! (this pictures is a picture of Aliana in a dress that I wore at 18 years old!)

We miss you Morgan!!! He's been gone a year now!! Yeah!! We love our Mowgie Man! Elder McKell!

Elder McKell has grown in leaps and bounds this year. We always knew he could. I love him so very much. The man he is becoming is fascinating to watch, and it is very humbling also. He works so hard on his mission, and doesn't complain, although he has had many things to distract him. Many miracles have happened.. and for that, we are eternally grateful.

We love you, Elder McKell!!

My Cami, Aliana, and Nikki and their cute new bangs, March 18, 2008

As you who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints know, our Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley passed away January 27th at 7pm surrounded by his family. He was ninety seven years old. We loved Gordon B. Hinckley- because he was a good man, a good example, one whom you wanted to be associated with. His spirit was young, and his smile so engaging. He was such a happy Prophet, and was known for holding onto his cane, but rarely walking with it. What a man. We all got the news here at 10pm eastern time from our son Mike, and the girls had just gone up to bed minutes before. I called them down, and told them the news. We all stood and cried, holding onto one another. You see, President Hinckley played a CRUCIAL role in these girls being here. We didn't talk about it that night - or the nights to come - but we have talked about it several times in the past.

When Vinny and I were going to adopt, we got to a point where we felt maybe we were talking ourselves into adopting. So we decided to pull back and wait. The next Sunday was a combined Priesthood/Relief Society meeting - and we found ourselves watching a video about adoption. At the end of the video - President Hinckley came on and admonished all that could to adopt. While the film was largely about babies, President Hinckley said anyone one who had the means and the heart to open up their home should do so. We were so touched, and felt that this was truly a sign from on high that we were to adopt. The girls know that story by heart.

Well, last night we decided to have the girls write their feelings about Gordon B. Hinckley. Here they are, unedited, and you have to know - we did not encourage them in any way to say anything. They spoke from their hearts. Vinny and I were so touched.

Please enjoy and comment.

Aliana -
Gordon B Hinckley is my Prophet. He is the most honest man I have ever seen. Gordon B. Hinckley has been a Prophet for more than ten years. Tonight I am going to tell you why I love him, and would like to thank him for everything that he has done for our religion and our family.

Three years ago, I came to America. My parents were listening to one of his talks. In one part he said "If you can adopt, do it"! My mom and dad thought about it for weeks, maybe months. They came to a conclusion, they were going to adopt. So here I am, because of Gordon B. Hinckley.

I love my Prophet very much. He has taught me so much. I will never forget him. Last week Gordon B. Hinckley died at seven p.m. That was the hardest time. Because when you love someone so much, it is hard to let them go. He has brought so much happiness and joy into my life. I love him dearly. He was reunited with his lovely wife. She was waiting for him. I will always remember him. Twenty years from now, I will teach his words to my children. Gordon B. Hinckley was old, he could be my grandpa. He loves everyone just like Jesus did. I think that Gordon B. Hinckley is perfect. I love him so much. But I know that he is in good hands. We will never forget him.

Nikki -
This subject is about my Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley. He is a very good Prophet and man. He is also a good obedient child, he is a good father and brother. He is most of all a good Prophet....MY Prophet.
About four days ago, Gordon B. Hinckley passed away. I feel very bad for his family because they lost such a great man. I also feel bad for the world because of a loss of a great, wonderful Prophet. He was a nice Prophet. He died when he was ninety seven years old. He died with his family. 'In conclusion, we should all be grateful for our Prophets, and the things they teach us. My grandmother said "what a great reunion with his wife". I thought that what she said was a beautiful thing. I am very grateful for our new Prophet, President Thomas S. Monson. Right now we are reading one of President Gordon B. Hinckley's books "Way To Be!" It has helped me very much. I love my Prophet.

Cami -

I'm going to tell you about my Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley. He is a great man, I love him so much. He taught us so many things! I believe that he sees vision's.
I really love Gordon B. Hinckley! I want to be just like him. He really chaged my life, because in Russia I did a lot of bad things. He really helped me with the gospel. He is one of not many perfect men. I feel that he brought me here.
I am very sad that he went, but he is happy. I feel very warm when I see his picture. He is kind, nice, always happy. Gordon B. Hinckley rocks!

Well - after we read these outloud - and Cami -You did not do anything bad, sweetheart!! - But at any rate - I read from my journal what I had written about the Prophet and we felt such a sweet spirit. Aliana then had a wonderful Idea. She wanted us to sing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again". So she went and grabbed some hymn books. We cuddled together on the bed, and said a prayer, and asked that President Hinckley would know of our love for him. We then sang the song. It was such a pearl. I really can't believe the girls faith, love and devotion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. They KNEW a Prophet of the Lord when they saw and heard him. Aliana and Nikki both wore dresses to school to show respect for the Prophet when he died.

We love you, President Hinckley! You have touched our lives in so many ways. We will never feel quite the same without you, but we will love President Monson, and go forth. You rest for now - (If you get to.... ha-ha!) and FEEL OUR LOVE. I can only imagine your reunion with your family - the Savior - and Joseph Smith -Moroni- Paul -Moses -Enoch-Adam- Abraham -John the Baptist - Alma - Mosiah -the list could go on and on and on...

God Be With You Till We Meet Again! We love you and will try to be like you and carry on your wonderful legacy.