From Blue to Pink - In One Quick Wink

As promised, here is the daily update.  First, before I get started, I have to say thanks to everyone for the wonderful comments.  Your thoughts, prayers and love have meant the absolute world to me the last couple days.  This roller coaster has been crazy!  I am lucky to have a great set of friends, real, cyber (and heck, imagined too!) and family.

And while we are on the subject of family... I am unofficially announcing that the female dynasty sprung forth from Lock and Liz Clarkson is adding one more strong willed female!  

I haven't signed the official paperwork, but I know in my heart that Tatiana is the one.  Yup, folks, you heard it here first, please welcome Tatiana Elizabeth.  I will likely send her documents over to the IA Doctor tonight, but more for a "what could potentially need attention in the future" vs. ruling her in or out. 

She's a pistol.  Imagine that -- another feisty female to add to our crew.  For those of you who don't know the background... I come from a long line of strong women.  My mom is 1 of 5 girls (1 brother too, poor Uncle Larry!), and my father also has 5 sisters (and yes, 1 brother too!).  My Grandma Clarkson (mom's side) is no longer with us, but I am so fortunate to still have Grandma Repp and live 1 mile from her.  Tatiana will make Great-Grandchild #11 on the Clarkson side, and get ready for it... Girl #10.  A Female dynasty in the making!!

One other note and additional thank yous.  Sorry for the outpouring of emotions here, but like all those before me, I am keeping it real.  So that's who this final note is for.  All my blogger, adoptive family friends who have completed their process or are still in the works.  Without you, I probably would have lost my mind with doubt and questions this week.  I feel the need to say some specifics -- and I am sure in my lack of sleep, I will miss someone - so if you are missed... please forgive.  To Tamara and Angie... my LH crutches... what do I say.  You two are a blessing.  Thanks for all your love and support.  To Ondrea, without you realizing it most likely, I am devouring everything you pass along.  I know the road ahead with a feisty little girl will be a challenge, but I think I'll make it.  Thanks for the inspiration.  To Nancy, Karyn, Becky... I've loved reading about your experiences... you helped me prepare for this more than you know!  Jesse and Jason -- wow, I don't know where to start.  You two are the best.  I can't even begin to thank you.  I feel like I have followed you down a crazy path and you prepared me for every step.  Sara, Phyllis & Heidi (and of course, Stephen, Ed and Mike...) my neighbors in the Vlad Inn - thanks for the great times this week and sharing all our experiences this week.  I can't wait to hear more about your kids.

Finally, (whew! yes!) special notes for Amy aka Wong, Pam, Jennifer my cousin/sister and Suzy.  I am lucky to have you in my life.  And last but not least... my partner in travel and soul sister, madam Photog, Rhonda Marie.  I can't thank you enough for everything.  Keeping me sane and grounded and helping with every step.  Even all the steps of the 5 flights of stairs!  I'll leave you all with some of the very talented (but she'll deny her talent everytime) Rhonda.  She took this precious shot today...  Paka!