Daniel is in Heaven

Little Daniel passed away last night. We are devastated by this news. I can't even imagine losing a child. Please send the Murphy family your love and prayers.

It's All About the Characters

look at the sophisticated crossed legs

the Mulan kiss

Mulan saved the day



Snow White squeezed Munch in before going off to her water break.

Hubs did all the heavy lifting

With a busted knee, a mighty sore belly and two soon to expire tickets, Hubs and I braved another trip to the Orlando area so Munch could get her fill of all things Disney again. This time it was all about the characters. Munch pestered us for an autograph book and a special pen even before we reached mile marker 15 on 192. Once inside DW, Munch exhibited uncanny patience in waiting to be snapped picture perfect with each character and gathering their signatures. Same thing at Epcot...relentless pleads to meet and greet Minnie and Donald. Typical futile conversation between members of the D household:

"But, Gigi, don't you want to see Nemo and ride the clammobile??!!"

"No, where Minnie and Donald?"

"Hey, how about we visit China and Japan? Wouldn't that be cool?"

"No, Daddy! I want Minnie and Donald!"

Hubs and I hold strong even though the whining is persistent and done in 91 degree humidity. We firmly plant ourselves in the Japan pavilion to watch the Taiko drummers. Gi momentarily forgets about Minnie and Donald and is entertained by the hardworking musicians. I'm sure the $3.75 cup of rainbow ice being hand fed to her also greased our way to this fleeting moment of parental peace. Next, China! While waiting for the acrobatic show to start, Gi and I, sans Hubs who is off to the bathroom again to recuperate, wander into the Chinese store. Upon coming out, we spot Mulan! I'm very pleased and desperately pray that she doesn't go off to her water break and leave my Munch waiting. Gi, with new found sophistication, waits for her turn and is rewarded handsomely not only with autograph and picture opportunity but also with a gracious red kiss on the cheek. There IS a stop-your-kid-from-whining goddess and her name is Miss Mulan! Munch is happy as a clam and lets her middle age, heat debilitated, aching parents watch the acrobatic show in relative peace. We end our visit to Epcot with a 45 minute wait to meet and greet all the MMCH characters. Munch was in heaven and so were we because Hubs and I can now drag our hot tired butts back to our hotel room for some much needed R&R. Mega park visits---not for the faint hearted when traveling with a soon-to-be four year old and one parent who can not lift anything heavy for six weeks. Kisses to my hubs who took on any extra duties that required lifting the Munch whether it was potty breaks, getting a better view or just plain hugging.

Send Your Love and Support

If you read this blog, I am asking that you send all the love and positive vibes you can to the Murphy family. Their newly adopted toddler son, Daniel, is currently undergoing corrective heart surgery down in Miami. His recovery is somewhat touch-and-go right now as complications have arisen. Daniel is a strong little fighter and his parents are equally strong and faithful. As you go about your normal daily routine, think of Daniel often. He's a great kid with a wonderful family. Thank you!

Happy Mother's Day

enjoying Mother's Day tea at Munch's school

Look at the flower arrangement!

I just want to wish all the mommies that I know a fabulous Mother's Day. July 23, 2007 was the day that I became a full fledge mommy and it has been a wonderfully bumpy ride ever since. I must thank my mighty Munch for keeping me active, compassionate and humble. I'd like to share a little Q&A project that Munch did at school with her teachers.

My Mom

My mom is 5 years old.

My mom is prettiest when her eyes blink in the morning.

My mom likes to make cereal, popcorn.

My mom always says, come here.

My mom is funny when she and Daddy laugh at the table.

Hugs and kisses to all the mommies!

Hello, Disney!

ready to conquer Disney

teacup fun

checking out Minnie Mouse's refrigerator

newly glamorous as Minnie Mouse

Tinkerbell encounter

fun with Goofy

bug girl

First of all, we'd like to thank the Y family again for making this wonderful trip possible for Munch. Brea's grandparents, John and Vicki, treated us to a wonderful two days at Disney World and Animal Kingdom in celebration of Brea's 4th birthday. The three BFFs enjoyed themselves tremendously as well as the adults. Happy birthday, Brea!