Time to start blogging...

Well, I guess it's time to enter the world of blogging. This is something that I've been thinking about doing for some time. I kept a blog during our trip to China to get Emily, and since then I've wished that I had done one for Katie (live and learn!). I've always had that nagging little voice saying "How can you start now? Half the story has already been played out!" It would be like beginning a novel in the 10th chapter.... Oh, well, I guess you have to start somewhere, huh?

So, here we are. Those of you reading this probably already know me, but just in case, I'll introduce myself. I'm Diana. It's currently May 19, 2009 and I'm the ripe old age of 45. I've been married to my high school sweetheart, Marty, for 26 years! That's something I'm especially proud of. In this day and age it's not something that you hear about very often. Let's see - what else? I'm the mother of 5 (3 bio, 2 adopted), and grandmother of one. I'm an administrative assistant at Tompkins Community Action, Early Childhood Department. We run the Head Start program in Tompkins County, NY. I've only been at this job for just over a year, but I'm loving it so far! My hobbies include family photography, reading, painting, and embroidery. I'm the youngest of 8 siblings. I've always lived in upstate New York. I've been a hockey mom for the past 20 years, but retired that title this past year. Now I'm working on being a gymnastics & dance mom - big difference, let me tell you!

The love of my life is my husband, Marty. We started dating when I was in 10th grade - shortly after I'd gone to the prom with the only other guy I've ever dated. I was Marty's first serious girlfriend, and I think that's pretty cool. Marty took me to the prom in 11th & 12th grades, and we married after I'd been out of high school just over one year. Marty works at BorgWarner, Morse TEC as a machinist. These days it's not so easy to be employed in the automobile industry, and lots of his co-workers have been laid off. Hopefully, Marty's job is safe, but I still worry. Martin is without a doubt the most incredible husband and father ever. He's 100% hands on, and I couldn't be happier! In fact, the title of our blog "Day by Day, Side by Side" comes from way back when we were young parents and having all those responsibilities. Some days were tougher than others, and that phrase came to me.... It's how we've gotten through some of our rougher spots.

Ok, so moving on - Michael is our oldest son. He's what made me into the mother that I am today. I had no idea that I had the capacity for love that I currently have until that beautiful little boy was born. He has been a delight to raise, and I'm proud of the man that he's become. He is currently 24 years old, and the father to our granddaughter, Dakota (almost 5!). Michael lives with Cryt (real name: Christy), and her son, Christopher. Although Dakota isn't in the picture these days, Michael gives a lot of himself to Christopher, showing how to hunt and fish.

Adam is our "middle child, turned middle son". That's because for a long time it was just the 3 boys. Adam is 22, and a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. He has recently returned from his third tour of duty in Iraq. I am exceptionally proud of Adam. He's only got about 8 more months in the Marines.... I don't know what he'll do once he gets out, but I'm sure it will be great! Adam lives with his girlfriend, Ingrid, near Camp Lejuene in North Carolina. Although we don't get to see them very often with today's technology I actually hear from him more than Michael!

Jared is our youngest son. He's 18, and just about to graduate from high school. Jared is the sweetest, most compassionate young man! He has been taking Auto Body at school for two years (earned awards both years - very unusual as a Junior!), and is headed off to Ohio where he will go to college for collision repair/custom paint. He is excited to go, but it will be hard for all of us without him around. Jared has been dating Kari since he turned 16. They seem to have a terrific relationship for such a young couple. Reminds me of Marty & I when we were young....

Katie Mei is our eldest daughter. She was adopted from China at the age of 13 months back in July 2004. Katie is going to turn 6 years old next month. She is currently in Kindergarten. Katie loves music and gym class best! She complains when there is no school! Her reading is really progressing, and she is so proud of herself. Katie has been doing gymnastics since she was nearly 2, and has taken dance class for two years now. The recital is next week, and she is very excited about it! T-ball is new to our weekly routine, and the girls have so much fun (even if they don't know what they're doing!).

Emily Rose is our youngest daughter, and the baby of the family. She was adopted from China at the age of 2 years, 4 months back in March 2006. Emily is currently 5 1/2 years old (there's just under 5 months difference in the two girls). Emily is also in Kindergarten, where she has about 20 best friends! Emily is a chatter box who can't sit still (her teacher calls her a hummingbird, which is perfect!). Emily does gymnastics, dance and t-ball with Katie. Emily sings and dances non-stop. I'm sure she'll be in drama/chorus as she grows up!

Ok, well, this first entry is longer than I thought it would be, but you really need to know all the players to know where I'm coming from. My family is absolutely most important thing to me, and I hope you enjoy meeting them and getting to know us. Happy reading!