GWCA JUNE 2006 SECRET PAL SWAP

Lesa's my Secret Pal!

2007-07-10T22:20:00.000-05:00

I forgot to post a photo!!! Thanks again, Lesa!

My Secret Pal's the Bomb!

2007-07-10T22:03:00.000-05:00

Lesa, you are the Secret Pal Queen! I'm sorry it has taken me so long to post, but it took me the last 5 days just to lay out all the stuff for the photo! :) The last box of goodies seemed to go on...and on...and on! So much fun! The little lady bug outfit and socks are just adorable! I can't wait to be able to try it on someone. The little ladybug toys are cute, cute, cute, and will go so well with our nursery theme. I also love the stuffed block, the nesting blocks are way too cool, and the little stuffed "critter" (is he a ladybug, too?) is so cuddly. And you KNOW I like the croc sandals because that's what I wear! The panda squeaky book is cute, and I'm thinking about sticking that in the suitcase for the China trip. Now...the little pink pig with the ribbon on it. I think it's for hair barrettes? That's what I was thinking about using it for, anyway. My 3 favorites are: 1) the photo of you and Wendy (sooooo sweet! I'll put it in my daughter's scrapbook!); 2) the bracelets! Please tell Wendy thank you for making the bracelet for Chloe. I will treasure them both always; and 3)the little fuzzy purse with stuffed lipstick, compact, and cell phone. This one may go to China, too.

Lesa, I just want to thank you for being the best Secret Pal and for making the past 10 months so enjoyable. Kevin and I both looked forward to your packages every month and the love and care you put into each one was just so evident. I don't know how to say thank you enough. I hope we will still stay in touch and I so hope that we all travel together. I need to be with someone who has the experience behind them ;) Take Care, friend.

Thank you Susan!

2007-06-28T11:22:00.000-05:00

Susan, I want you to know that everyone in my family really loved and appreciated getting all of the wonderful packages that you so thoughtfully put together. One of my up most favorite things you sent was the Chinese Cookbook! I truly love all of the illustrations in it.
Wendy has loved being able to open all of the boxes that came! I always waited for her to be awake from her nap to share in the opening. Lacy and Holly have also enjoyed this. Before this our second adoption I have never participated in a Secret Pal Swap. I wish I had been in on our first one, but got in our group too late.
I know we all will miss going to the door and finding a special surprise awaiting us.
I finally have the final photo to add to our blog.
Thank you so much for being a wonderful SP and now a wonderful sister/and forever friend.

Your pal,
Lesa

Jennifer is my Secret Pal!

2007-06-27T12:19:00.000-05:00

Jennifer,

How can I thank you for the blessing that you have been to me? I have looked forward to your packages every month! It is so nice to know who you are! I love seeing the pictures of Adrienne on your wonderful website for adoptions, and it is fun to know that you picked out the darling things for our little Samantha!

I love the Panda! And the bow is just perfect, as it matches my house and it will be sitting in the living room until we start Samantha's nursery. The sweater and the ladybug items are so cute and a perfect weight for our winters.

I hope that the number of referral days picks up and that we have the opportunity to travel together as I would love to meet in person.

Again, thanks so much for the many thoughtful gifts and the encouragement that you were every month!

Love, Christine

Thank you Diane! You've been the best!

2007-06-19T14:29:00.000-05:00

Diane, it's so great to finally find out who you are! You've been so thoughtful with all of your gifts over the past months, and what a great grand finale! I love everything! I listened to Patty Stevenson's CD on my way into work today. Talk about making a girl wanna cry! I had a knot in my throat throughout "I will", and held the tears back so I wouldn't walk into the office with my mascara streaming down my cheeks. That is such a touching song and means so much to me. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. You really could've just stopped there, but no, you had lots of fun stuff for Maiya too! I love the ladybug theme -- which included a creative activity tote (perfect for us creative sorts), sippy cup, and a ladybug farm! And then there's the oh so cute outfit, that will be perfect some 4th of July! And, last but not least, the crystal and silver Forever baby bracelet. I love it! That almost had me in tears last night when I first opened your package.

You've been so thoughtful, and I've found so much support in the lovely cards and sentiments you have wrote each month. I do hope we have a chance to meet some day in the near future. You will make a wonderful mommy to a very special little girl!

Thank you again for everything.
xxoo,
Susan

To Michele M. from Melissa

2007-06-13T18:11:00.001-05:00

Michele,

You have been the greatest SP! I love the canvas "D" I just got in the mail today for Darby's room. It looks awesome in there. As soon as I opened it (and wiped away the tears...this is such an emotional time for all of us w/ our 1 year annivesaries here or coming soon) I hung it in her room. It goes great!!!!! I absolutely love it and so appreciate you taking the time to have it custom made to match her room. Katie has been at her mom's but will be home Friday and I can't wait to show her.

I thought at one point that you were my SP too, but I was only about 50% sure. That is too funny. Yes, please let me know when you come down to FL. We don't go away for the holidays since all of our families live here. I would really like the chance to meet you and Mike in person.

Thanks once again for all of your thougtful gifts. I have loved them all and really enjoyed this SP swap!

XOXO,
Melissa

Here it is...

2007-06-13T07:08:00.000-05:00

Thanks again to my wonderful SP's Melissa & Katie. You guys did a great job every month and I will miss receiving those surprises at my door.

To Michele M. from your SP

2007-06-12T08:38:00.001-05:00

Michele,

Your June special gift is on it's way to you. I don't know if it will state who it's from as I shipped it direct so I wanted to let you know that I am your SP. I am so sad this is coming to an end. I really enjoyed being your SP and looked forward to finding new goodies to send you each month. I must also finally confess that my daughter, Katie, was also a huge help every month and she has had so much fun with it as well. I have to give her credit where it is due. I had never heard of a SP swap until I joined this group and was really unsure of it at first, but it has been a great experience and I hope we all decide to do something else in the future.

Your SP,
Melissa

Thank You Sherry....Cynthia's SP

2007-06-10T20:45:00.000-05:00

Hi,

I was thrilled to find out Friday night when I got home that Sherry is my secret pal. Sherry you have been a fantastic secret pal. I have enjoyed all the wonderful gifts you have sent. This month was no exception. I have wanted to get wooden letters that spell Taylor to hang over her bed. I have looked all around but never found anything that I really liked. My search is over....Sherry gave me my letters. Not just any letters. These are hand painted with colors and designs that match her room colors and bedding. Sherry's mom painted them so a special thanks go out to her. I love them and can't wait to hand them in Taylor's room. I know she will like them also. So you can all see the detail and colors of the letters I took individual pictures of them.

Thanks again Sherry for everything. You have been an awesome secret pal. I can't thank you enough.

Cynthia

Thank you to Diane's Secret Pal !!

2007-06-02T17:00:00.000-05:00

Hi Secret Pal, Wow... I came home from a work trip to not one but TWO packages on my porch! What a wonderful surprise on a tired evening. You definitely shouldn't apologize for timing, you are a terrific secret pal. We're all busy and time flies! Anyway, back to the thank you!! April's gift brought a picture that matches perfectly to my vision of the nursery... the color and butterfly are perfect. It makes me want to start working on the room now even though i'd decided to wait a while! I love the pattern of the notecards... perfect for a quick note. The bird matches the garden theme I've got going in my dining room. And the pair of ladybugs are too cute... i can't stop playing with the windup one that does flips! May's gift is perfect too. I know my little one will love all the choices in music (what a selection!), and the travel pillow set will be so soothing during the long trip! The card is really thoughtful too! Thanks so much for everything these many months. I can't wait to find out who you are ... hopefully we'll get the chance to travel together and you'll be able to see some of the little outfits and other assorted treats in actual use :) Thanks again! Diane

Finally got the photos....

2007-05-27T18:42:00.000-05:00

Hey Susan my pal! I finally got pics of the wonderful things you sent to all of us. Holly loves her monkey and said thanks she was so excited to be part of the Pal Package Opening Ceremony. We are going to make the Monkey Bread tomorrow night. Wendy loves her own Buddha! She also loves her Backpack purse....it is now loaded with her Buddha, her princes stamps and a watch. I can hardly wait to play the CD for Mylie. I may play it for Wendy just to test it out. I also can't wait to see Miss Mylie in that darn cute skirt and stockings which I will put them together with the little onsie, tam, and socks you sent. It will make such an adorable outfit and can't wait to send a photo of her wearing them to you. Who knows, I may be taking it to China with us.

We all love you, Susan!! Thanks for being such a wonderful pal and especially my friend.

Love,
Lesa

Thanks to Melissa's Awesome SP!

2007-05-25T08:09:00.000-05:00

SP you are the best! I feel so blessed to have you and I am very sad this swap is ending next month. Finding your packages at my door or in my mailbox are so much fun and they always seem to come at just the right times when I need a little pick-me-up. I love the toys for Darby. I have been thinking about picking up some stacking cups after hearing what a hit they are with the babies and I love the ladybug teething toy too. Bootsie has taken over the catnip toy and this is the first time I have seen her play so intently in a while. She loves it. Thanks for thinking of the cats. In the tradition of my love of everything ladybug, the note nest and pin are fabulous! I also loved the book of thoughtful post-it notes. I have never seen anything like it before and I have already started using them. I like to stick handwritten little notes in my husband's or daughter's lunches so they are perfect.

Big Hugs!
Melissa

Thank you, Christine's Secret Pal

2007-05-23T13:13:00.000-05:00

To my wonderful Secret Pal,

Thank you so much for the darling Mother's Day gifts. I really love the satin/cotton blankie, what a wonderful cuddle up with blankie! I can't wait to use the bows, they are adorable and the bib is so cute I won't want to use it! :-) I so look forward to see Samantha running around in the little romper. You have been such a blessing and I can't wait to "meet" you next month!
I have really looked forward to your packages every month, and I am sorry it took me so long to post a thank you for this gift, we got a new computer and it seemed to take forever for my hubby to get everything transfered over.

Again, thank you so much for the wonderful gifts and the caring heart behind them.

Love,
Christine

Thank You Susan's Secret Pal

2007-05-22T12:36:00.000-05:00

I adore everything! My package included: a bikini (the cutest!!!) with matching hat, beach coverup, and the coolest lime green sunglasses! I cannot wait to put our little Maiya in this adorable outfit! And, there was a special treat of Asian rice snacks, which is one of my favorites--seriously! I love everything, you are the greatest, and I will miss getting these special gifts from you. But, I also can't wait to find out who you are, and hope we get to travel to China together!

xxoo-
Susan

Thank You! Thank You!

2007-05-22T11:37:00.000-05:00

A great big Thank You from Lissie's Secret Pal - and no, I do not know who you are. I love all the beach related items: beach towel, adorable sunglasses to protect her delicate eyes, a cute little swimsuit, and some fun sand toys! I can't wait for her to see the ocean for the first time! Thank you again and I guess next month all will be revealed! Till then ;)

Your Pal, Lissie

A Belated Thank You to my Not-So-Secret Pal!

2007-05-21T21:21:00.000-05:00

April and May Secret Pal Gifts

Kevin posing with my Mother's Day books from my Secret Pal!

Pink Ticklish Hippo-VERY SWEET!

I feel awful for being so delingquent in thanking the best Secret Pal in the whole wide world! Lesa, will you please forgive me? I get so wrapped up in my own crazy world some times, but I do want you to know that I love everything and I will miss your wonderful packages after next month. You have been absolutely great! And up until March, I really had no idea who my Secret Pal was!

Thank you so much for the wonderful goodies! I hope you like the photos. I made Kevin pose with them. Doesn't he look enthused? He really likes the tickle giggle hippo and loves to torture the cats and Sunshine by making it laugh. We both love to receive packages in the mail. He always lets me open them but he's as excited as I am to find out what's inside. Everything will go so nicely in my "garden" themed nursery. I can't wait to get it all put together!

Take care, Lesa, and thanks for being such an inspiration and mentor during this process of waiting...and waiting...and waiting.

Mary

A huge thank you to Cynthia's SP

2007-05-20T20:37:00.000-05:00

Hi,

Thank you sooooo much secret pal for the wonderful package I received Friday night. I love everything in it. The cabbage patch doll - Elyssa Madison is adorable. What a great surprise. I love her and I am sure Taylor will too. I can't wait for her to see her. Boy will Taylor have fun in the tub with all the cool toys you got her....rubber ducs, little animals that squirt water, the ladybug with 3 babys. The foamer will be fun for her shampoo. Can definately use the wash cloths. Everything is fantastic. You are so thoughtful and generous. I can't say thank you enough.

I love everything!!!!!

Cynthia

A Special Mother's Day Thank You to Cynthia's Secret Pal

2007-05-13T19:48:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to my secret pal. I received a truely wonderful gift from my secret pal yesterday. A beautiful silver heart key chain. The heart opens up and inside is a red thread. I really love it and have keys on it already. I also got a package of kleenex with the cutest saying on them "Because I am the Mom that's why." I love it. Wonder how many times we will say that to our daughters during their lives?!?!?!

Thanks sooooooo much for everything. They are special gifts and you are a wonderful, thoughtful secret pal.

Love, Cynthia

My FABULOUS May & Mother's Day gift

2007-05-13T18:19:00.000-05:00

I really hate to brag - but I must. I have the most incredible, amazing, wonderful, and generous Secret Pal ever!!!! I can't believe the absolutely wonderful gift she sent me for Mother's Day.

Let's back up a couple of days.

On Tuesday of last week I got an email from my SP saying that she mailed my May gift and I would be receiving it in a couple of days but not to open it until Sunday. (she has a secret email address that she used to send me messages some times)

On Thursday of I received a package in the mail. Now, it was from 'Red Envelope' - so I knew I would love it. But, I couldn't open it. And I really wanted to. But, I had promised I wouldn't. So I was good.

Friday came - I checked out the box again. I moved it from the snack bar to the kitchen table. Sitting there all alone - just waiting for me to open it.

Saturday came - I moved the box to dust under it and placed it back in the same spot. So tempting. I then thought - just open it - she'll never know. Very tempting. But, I was good and didn't open it. Only a few more hours.

Sunday morning - 6:15am the dogs wake me up for food. The first thing I see when I enter the kitchen is the box on the table. But, the dogs would never allow me to open it before feeding them. Ok - now I can open it!!!!!

And look what's inside.

Ok - Since my picture taking skills aren't the best - here's what that picture from the Red Envelope website looks like:

So thank you SP from the bottom - top and middle of my heart. You have made this Mother's Day truly amazing. This is a day I won't soon forget.

And your generosity is amazing too.

Word can not express how much I love this and you.

You are a wonderful kind person.

Love,

Sherry

We Love You Secret Pal

2007-05-09T09:42:00.000-05:00

Secret Pal:

Danielle and I received your package yesterday. She loves to open up gifts. Since she has come home she has gotten so many (including her birthday) that she thinks all gifts are for HER!! Well, Danielle loves her Piglet. She actually brought him (her) to school with her today. I love the summer dress (perfect size). It will look soooo good on her. She has been spending a lot of time outside and is getting a suntan (even with sunblock). Interestingly, the dress is a "heartstring" and my sister-in-law used to work for them YEARS ago before they sold out to the "big guys". My nephews used to wear all of their clothes when they were toddlers. It brought up some good memories when I saw the tag.

I love my candles and candle holder. Fits my house perfectly!!

You also sent me my first Mothers Day Card!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank You. I apologize for skipping my thank you to you last month. It was a really hectic month with me going back to work and Danielle starting Daycare. That is really no excuse, expecially condidering all that you do for us, but it is the honest truth. Please know that we do appreciate you! Please accept my apology.

Love,

JoAnne and Danielle

Thanks to Michele's SP

2007-05-07T20:42:00.000-05:00

Hello SP,

I was pleasantly surprised to see a box of goodies sitting by the door for me today. I really needed that big smile; it wasnt a great day for me. Thanks for that. On my wishlist of things to get was a seat protector for the car...thanks thats great; one item crossed off the list. Not sure how you knew but I was also in need of some hangers so it was perfect timing. What can I say about the socks....we can always use them and can never have enough! Thanks again. I love the little hint too on the card. ;)

Have a wonderful Mother's Day!!!

Thank you SP for my March & April gifts!!!!!!!

2007-05-05T22:05:00.000-05:00

I've so far behind in everything lately that I just took pictures of all my gift for the past two months. I'm so sorry I haven't posted pictures yet. But, here they are!!!!!! So thank-you, thank-you, thank-you!!!!!! You are the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Above are the March gifts ---- LOVE the socks. And Sonny was so happy to get a Daddy book.

Below are the April gift. Look at how cute the jammies are. The I love the placemat. And the back of it can be used for chalk - how great is that. I love it. I can see that will be traveling places with us!!!

Thank you to Cynthia's SP

2007-04-16T19:23:00.000-05:00

Hi,

I want to thank my SP for my wonderful April gifts. I received for Taylor a really cute Pull Along Music and Movement Dudley and Daisy. It is so cute and I can't wait for Taylor to play with it. I also received some bubble pendants that I am sure will come in handy at bath time. Also received really nice smelling (sweet pea) bubble bath and body lotion. Already started using these :) Last but no least is a really cute strawberry flvored pig. I am slowly nibbling my way through the pig. The tail was quite tasty!!!

I love everything. Thank you so much you are the greatest.

Have a great week.

Cynthia

Thanks for Michele's Birthday Surprise!!

2007-04-15T16:54:00.000-05:00

Hey SP~

A big hug and many thanks to you for my special birthday surprise. I love Bath & Body Works and the scent smells so pretty. Thanks for your thoughtfulness, I truly appreciate it and will think of you everyday. You're #1 in my book!!

As Promised here are the photos of April's Pal Gifts

2007-04-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

I wanted to post the photos of our April package. Wendy just loved her chicken! I loved watching her open all of the packages. The little Buddha is so cute, but it was hard getting a photo of just him, because he is so small and shiny.

Thank you for all you do. You are a very sweet and thoughtful Secret Pal, and I can't wait to find out who you are. I keep thinking I have you figured out and then something comes up to make me think different. LOL

I just had to show off your art work!! Great job. Oh, the dogs really appreciate being thought of as well.

Love, Lesa and Wendy

Thank You, Christine's Secret Pal!

2007-04-12T16:50:00.000-05:00

Dear Secret Pal!

What a wonderful surprise to find in the mail Saturday! A wonderful Easter blessing for our little Samantha! What a darling outfit, it look's so cozy, can't wait to cuddle with my little one in it. :-) This was an especially good week to receive this as I was a little down about the small number of days that China made through this month for referrals, but it gives me a lift to get this packages and to know that this WILL happen! And I know this wait will seem like nothing when we receive our daughters, but sometimes it seems forever!

Just know, Secret Pal, that you make the wait go by so much faster and you are such a wonderful blessing!

~ Christine ~

Thank you so much for my March and X-mas gifts....

2007-04-10T13:25:00.000-05:00

Funny....I just found our X-mas disc with the wonderful wonderful gifts. I loved the candle stick holders and ornament. Wendy loved her bells.
Sorry that I am so incrediably late at posting the photo.

Now for my March gifts.....The PJ's for Wendy are so sweet and I love the ladybug outfit for Mylie....I can't wait to put her in it. The little pig is adorable.
My Hot Tamales were enjoyed by me mostly, but Wendy surprised me with eating half of them! She has become fond of spicy things lately. She loves Thai food with a little spice. The CD is wonderful and is so calming.

I got your package with all of the little outfits. They are absolutely precious! What a surprise to get them so quickly after getting the last package.
As soon as I get the photos I promise I will put them on.

Love your pal,

Lesa

Happy Easter/Spring Susan's Secret Pal!

2007-04-09T10:21:00.000-05:00

Thank you Secret Pal for the awesome Easter package!!! It came on Saturday afternooon--perfect timing for the holiday weekend! I love the little sun dress, it's sooooo adorable! It's the size I've been buying most, so we're thinking the same on clothing purchases. It's hard not knowing sizes or seasons to buy for, but even harder not to buy in advance. Little girls clothes are just too cute, I really have to control myself these days!

Scooter loved the quacking duck toy! I had to tell him that it was for Maiya, as well as the duck bath puppet, when he decided to try and swipe it from the dining table. Oh, and I haven't had Peeps since I was a kid, but I am one of those adults who still likes them along with those orange Circus Peanuts that so many kids like! They were gone quickly, too quickly for me to find chocolate sauce to dip them in! I wanted to "fondue" them, but Roger decided we needed to experience them like kids do. Thank you for everything!

I hope you had a nice Easter and will soon be seeing warmer weather come your way, wherever you are. Speaking of, it's so hard not to guess who you are! I keep thinking I've got it figured out, but then something confuses me and I change my mind. And, it's even harder being a Secret Pal and not revealing myself! One of these days I'm going to goof and sign my name in response to a thank you on the yahoo group, or on the card I send with the packages! If I haven't already done so, it's only a matter of time.

Happy Spring Pal! Hopefully we'll be seeing the referrals blooming in the weeks and months to come!

You're the best!
Susan

To Michele's Secret Pal ~

2007-04-09T06:38:00.000-05:00

Hello SP~ I love this month's little chick onesie; how cute it is. Everything reminded me of Spring (even if the weather isn't cooperating). The photo box is really nice and does go well in Addison's room. I cant wait till we have a photo to put on the cover of the box. Even the bag you picked out was so pretty. The candy wont last too long either. Thanks again for another great month of gifts.

A big "Thank You" to Diane's Secret Pal !

2007-04-08T22:03:00.000-05:00

Hi Secret Pal,

Thank you so much for the wonderful gift! It was fun (as always) to find it on my porch and, when I opened it, I kept pulling out surprise after surprise. You really outdid yourself! Wow! Thank you so very much!

The bug growth chart perfectly matches my vision for the baby room. I haven't started painting or pulling it together yet but know this will be a wonderful addition to the theme! I love the cute little bodysuits and pants and can't wait to see my little one in them! The bath stuff and the candles will be great to help me relax a bit (much needed these days). They smell great! The chocolate bugs are almost too cute to eat! And, the stickers will be fun ... i plan to use a few of them for my spring garden pictures. I hope putting ladybugs on a page will bring good luck.

Thanks again and Happy Easter!

Diane

Thank You, Secret Pal!

2007-04-07T19:48:00.000-05:00

Hi, Secret Pal! Just wanted to say thank you for the wonderful March package you sent. I'm sorry I'm late posting my thank you. I've been waiting to have my husband move the photos from the camera to the computer (he's the techie in this family!) I have included photos from past months, also. I loved the St. Patrick's Day theme gifts, and I couldn't wait to see my Lab in the green "Bark if You're Irish" bandana. I also loved the under-the-sea mobile, Year of the Pig poster, and other items! You are always so thoughtful, and Kevin and I always look forward to opening the packages together. Thanks again!

Mary & Kevin Walker

Lady Bug Package!

Halloween!

More Wonderful Ladybugs!

To Melissa's SP

2007-04-05T20:01:00.000-05:00

Thanks so much for the Easter surprise! First let me say how beautiful the bottle cover is. You always find such unique gifts. I love it. The chickie pajamas at too cute! I can't wait to put Darby in them. The cat memo pad is perfect for the fridge and of course we all loved the Easter candy. Some of it didn't even make it long enough to get in the picture. Hope you have a great Easter with your family.

Thanks again. We are so lucky to have you for a Secret Pal!

So Adorable!

2007-04-05T11:39:00.000-05:00

Dearest Secret Pal,

This is the most adorable outfit! I must have missed this line at Gymboree, thank you so much for sending this for Samantha. I would have been sad to have missed the Panda! :-)

I can't tell you how much we look forward to your packages each month, it is my way of marking time, and it sure makes the time go by faster when you know something fun is on the way. Thank you so much for being such a wonderful blessing to our family.

Hope you and your family have a very blessed Easter!

Love,
~ Christine ~

Our Secret Pal ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-04-02T19:29:00.000-05:00

January gifts------>
February gifts---------> March gifts------------->

Dear Secret Pal,

Sorry for our blog entries being added so late...we have had problem after problem with our camera...anyway, we just wanted to let you know that you ROCK!!!!!!!!! Your kindness and thoughtfulness is just too awesome to believe!!! This last month in particular just blew us away---I ( in particular) just LOVE the Frog disguised as the Easter Bunny!

For everyone reading this, we have been unable to post pictures due to camera problems, so we were just posting our thank yous on Yahoo. However, the camera is up and running again. Picture #1 is from January, picture #2 is from February (sans the lipgloss as Beth couldn't resist using it) and picture #3 is for March. WE cannot wait to put Emma in her little dresses. She will be the best dressed little sister in town!!

Almost every day Beth asks if we are going to be leaving soon to pick Emma up...boy do we wish that we were!

Thanks again, Secret Pal, for making us feel so special and most of all for being so king and thoughtful to our two beautiful daughters!

Love,

Jodie and David Potter

Dear secret pal, thank you for the gifts. i relley love them. i get so exiced when the secret pal box comes to our house. i am so exiced to meet you like a normal person.

love,

beth potter

Thank You Susan's Secret Pal!

2007-03-26T09:17:00.000-05:00

Happy Spring to you my pal, and to the group too! It's a gorgeous day here, and our weekend was beautiful too. A close second to the wonderful weather, was receiving my Secret Pal's gift on Saturday. Thank you so much for the everything! The jumper is adorable, as are the socks and bibs. It's hard to look at this little outfit and not be able to put our little one in it at this time. I can picture her wearing it, and I can almost feel her close to me in my arms. She will be so hug able in this soft little outfit. I love the candle scent too, and have it in the nursery at this time.

Your package, as well as the weather, was a breath of fresh air this weekend! I hope we will meet some day in the future and share our dreams of motherhood in person.

Happy Easter!

Susan

To Lissie's SP

2007-03-23T10:33:00.000-05:00

SP,

Thank you so much for my lovely Easter presents. I've already put them in the baby's closet: the Spring hand towel, the bunny, and the very cool sidewalk chalk! The jellybeans were yummy (yes, they are gone as of last night) and my fiance and his son devoured their chocolate candies - thank you for thinking of them. My fiance, Matt, and I look forward to your packages each month. We open it together with a big grin from ear to ear!!

Thank you again for your thoughtfulness. Happy Easter/Spring!

Lissie

To Melissa's SP

2007-03-18T15:44:00.000-05:00

Thanks so much for our awesome goodies! I got the package earlier this week, but had to wait until Katie came home from her mom's before opening it. It's our ritual and she would be so hurt if I did it without her. She also enjoys being a part of helping me come up with ideas for the SP we send stuff too. Thanks for the bib. It is so great and that you had it personalized for Darby makes it even more special! The kitty cat stuffed animal is so soft and cuddly. We have put it in her crib and it's a perfect match for her nursery. Katie loved the socks too. They came just in time! Thanks so much for thinking about her. You are so kind and thoughtful!

Melissa

Thanks to Diane's Secret Pal

2007-03-17T08:44:00.000-05:00

Hi Secret Pal,

I came home last night to a box of surprises! It's always so fun to find the box on my porch. I absolutely love the red dress and little socks... it is adorable. It's hard to imagine feet that tiny :) The "pjs" are really fun and so creative! I don't think i can take them apart. The color changing sippy cup is really fun... and i definitely love chocolate. I had to put it away so i wouldn't open it immediately!

Thanks again!
Diane

To Michele's Awesome SP

2007-03-16T17:20:00.000-05:00

Hey Secret Pal...thank you so much for my March goodies. I apologize for my late post.

I really liked everything you sent...the bibs are really cute as are the headbands. I have already put some kiddie cd's in the ladybug holder.

The card was pretty also.

A big thanks to you!

You Are the Best!!!

2007-03-12T20:13:00.000-05:00

Danielle is now the proud owner of her very own personalized stationary, complete with personalized labels. It is absolutely adorable. The design is appropriately a ladybug and each notecard has her name and a cute ladybug on it. I love it and I know she will too. She needs notecards to help with all of the thank yous she and I need to send for all of the wonderful gifts that she has received. I wish that I could send one to "our" secret pal but since we don't know who you are please accept this little note as our "thank you". And imagine it printed on the stationary that you sent us. You are always so kind, thoughtful, generous, and truly wonderful. We love you and all that you do for us.

Love,

JoAnne and Danielle

Thanks to Cynthia's SP

2007-03-12T18:43:00.000-05:00

I want to thank my wonderful secret pal for the fabulous gifts I received when I got home Friday night. When I opened the box I was so delighted and excited by what was inside. Adorable ladybug slippers and a ladybug plush pillow with places for 3 pictures. I am going to follow my secret pas's suggestion and put my referral pictures in them and have it with me when I sleep and can dream about her. Also in the box were the cutest pj's with flowers and ladybugs and a very soft red bathrobe. I love them and can't wait to put Taylor in them. Thank you so much you are very thoughtful and have great taste.

As you can see I figured out how to take pictures from my new toy and put them on my computer and include them in this post. I also included a picture of my chinese new year gifts. Isn't the pig cute.

Thanks again for everything.

Cynthia

Sherry's February gifts

2007-03-04T22:49:00.000-05:00

I'm so sorry SP - I got the stomach flu on Monday and totally forgot to post a proper thank you. I loaded the pictures to the blog last week and got busy with everything else. But, I wanted to tell you again THANK YOU!!! You are so very thoughtful. I just love the can and the Chinese 'biscuits/cookies'. I've already eaten a pack of them. Not too sweet - but very good. And the jade beads that came with it are hanging on the door of the entertainment center. Plus, I love the Dora doll and both of the stackers. I didn't have either one of them. I've never even seem the little tikes one with the shapes and numbers on it. Very cute. Again - thank you so much for everything.

Hugs,
Sherry

Thank You Secret Pal

2007-03-02T08:51:00.000-05:00

Danille and I received the most adorable package this month. The theme was the Chinese New Year and it certainly fit the bill. I absolutely LOVE the lady bug rain boots. If you could please post where you got them because I would like to buy them for a friend who is also waiting. The lady bug toy/book is great too. We also got some other cute lady bug "stuff". I will try to post Miss Danielle in her new boots ASAP. She is currently a size 6 and the boots are a 7 so she will have plenty of wear.

Thanks again Secret Pal. We love it all and appreciate your generousity and thoughtfulness

Love,

JoAnne and Danielle

To Christine's Secret Pal:

2007-02-26T14:20:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much for the wonderful package! The little denim jumper is soooo cute, and the tights are the perfect accessory! :-) I have managed to keep the boys out of the treats until I could get a picture . . . it wasn't easy. Once again you have made my month with your thoughtful gifts and caring.

Love,
Christine

Ladybugs Galore!

2007-02-21T14:05:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to say thank you for the wonderful box of goodies I received several days ago. What a wonderful collection of ladybugs! I just love the ladybug photo frame, pen, liquid soap, the stationary, and vase hugger! (My grandson loves the Gerber Graduate snacks). Thank you, also, for the bracelet, the sweet pink outfit and socks, and last but not least, the chocolate! You are the greatest, and I can't wait to find out who you are! What a fun package, and they always brighten my day, regardless of what else is happening that day. Again, thank you so much.

Happy New Year to Cynthia's SP

2007-02-21T09:11:00.000-05:00

Hi,
I have the most thoughtful secret pal. On Saturday I received the cutest book titled Olivia. It is a great story about a pig. It is so cute I can't wait to read it to Taylor. Yesterday I got home and there was a box waiting for me in my mailbox. It had the cutest stuffed pig I have ever seen. I love it and so will Taylor. Thanks for your thoughtfulness and generosity and thinking of us on the New Year. Happy New Year to you and your family. I have decided the next month I am going and getting a digital camera. Once I learn how to use I will post pictures more frequently.
Have a great day.
Cynthia

Thank You Susan's Secret Pal!

2007-02-19T11:38:00.000-05:00

Perfect timing for Chinese New Year! Thank you for the wonderful books!
I read several of them aloud to Roger and the "boys" on Sunday
afternoon. We've now had our first lesson about Chinese New Year and
the Year of the Pig. The ladybug chocolates are just too cute to eat,
but I have to admit we've already eaten a few! What a wonderful
treat to come home to after running errands on Saturday afternoon. I
love "When you were born in China" too, and you sent such a beautiful
card.

Thank you again for your thoughtful gifts!
xxoo-
Susan

Thank you to Lesa's Secret Pal

2007-02-18T11:45:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much for the incredible packages! I especially love the Cook Book!! I love the illustrations inside. Thank you for the tea, honey sticks, chop sticks, and Wendy's little stuffed Lion, and box of Valentine candy.
As you can see the puppies really love the bones. Tallulah is sharing with Clark. I guess you can tell the poor thing is blind. He really felt like a puppy again.
We so appreciate all that you do for us.

Love Lesa

Thank You Cynthia's Secret Pal

2007-02-15T11:53:00.000-05:00

I love coming home on Fridays to find packages at my door. Last Friday there one was from my wonderful secret pal. The box was full of such wonderful gifts. I got 2 heart votive candle holders (have already been burning them), a bag of Hershey kisses in truffle flavor (never saw them before) they were very very good, a longsleeve pink onsie and a pink and multicolored striped skort - soooo cute, a little cup cake note holder, magnetic note pad, a chocolate scented note pad and pencil, white chocolate and raspberry scented bbuble bath, body butter, bath beads, lib balm, body lotion and body scrub. I have already started using the bath products. They are great and smell so good. Thanks you sooooooo much for everythng I loved it all.
Have a great day :)
Cynthia

Thanks to Michele's SP

2007-02-13T20:06:00.000-05:00

Thanks SP for my package! It's always a nice end to the day.

You are so "sweet" for sending such nice Valentine's treats; we are both enjoying them.

The jumper dress is so soft & is such a pretty color. It will keep Addison nice and warm.

And I can't forget the pink slippers...You must be a mind reader....I have looked at slippers many times but these are Addisons first pair. They will keep her tootsies nice and toasty!

Thanks again for the great gifts! Happy New Year to YOU.

Thanks Melissa's secret pal

2007-02-12T21:31:00.000-05:00

I somehow managed to get on here tonight. Not sure how though.

Thanks SP for all the gifts. You thought of everyone and we all greatly appreciate it!The candy is gone, the cats are enjoying their treats and Katie is wearing her socks today. She proudly told everyone they came from our SP. I love the cute socks and hat you sent for Darby and can't wait to put them on her. I also loved the Chinese New Year card, book and ornament.

You rock!!

Happy Valentines Day and Happy New Year to everyone!!

Melissa

Thanks to Diane's Secret Pal !!

2007-02-05T19:39:00.000-05:00

Hi Secret Pal,

I came home tonight to find a package on my doorstep. It is always such a great surprise to see a box! You really outdid yourself once again. Secret pals ARE special... thank you so much for the ornament. I have it hanging above my computer to remind me that even when the wait seems long, I'm so lucky to have you and this group during the journey! The yellow outfit is so happy and sunny... it reminds me on this day when the high was minus 4 here in wisconsin that spring and summer will indeed arrive (hopefully the groundhog was right and spring will be early this year!). Last, but certainly not least, the keepsake frame is beautiful!! I love the messages on it "Children bring sunshine to a mother's heart" and "Memories are among life's greatest treasures"... I can't wait to put little keepsakes, messages, and memories for my daughter in the inside pocket. What a wonderful idea! I hope you're having a good beginning of 2007 and sure hope that the memores start sooner rather than later!! :)

Thanks again!

Diane

Will try again....

2007-02-05T08:33:00.000-05:00

Well something didn't work right...no pictures. Will try again and hope that it works this time.
Cynthia

Pictures of Secret Pal Gifts

2007-02-05T08:21:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday everyone. Hope you are all staying warm.

Well I finally took pictures of my SP gifts from Nov, Dec and Jan and got my film developed. I have not gone digital yet so it takes me a bit longer. Have been giving is some serious thought and will probably go digital this year. As you can see my SP has out done herself and sent me some really wonderful gifts.
Thanks again for everything.
Cynthia

Thanks for the adorable January gifts!!!!

2007-01-31T22:32:00.000-05:00

Look at these adorable little shoes. Don't you just love them? I love the little cherries on them. They look so summery. I've taken them out of the package three times already to 'play' with them. They are so soft. I keep imaging what outfits she's going to wear with them. I can see a new addiction starting with these. And they look so comfy - why would she want to wear anything else? So I think I'll just have to get a pair in every color. :)

And check out this little hat. Doesn't it look like a little strawberry? And it's also super soft. I can't wait to get a picture of the baby in this. My SP has great taste in gifts. I'm always so excited to get her gifts. She's just the best!!!!

Thanks again SP for always making my day and sending the babies such great presents.
:)

Hugs,
Sherry

A Message to Mary's Secret Pal

2007-01-31T00:20:00.000-05:00

Hi, Secret Pal!
Just a note to say thank you so much for the box of goodies you sent a few days ago! I am a little late posting, and I apologize. Life gets crazy around here at times! But the wonderful items we received were just what we needed to brighten our day! So many neat items, and what I love about them is they are items I can take to China with me, like the sippy cups, the JOhnson's take along pack, and the cardboard books. And I absolutely love the Fisher Price Little People doll (Sonya Lee). She's just adorable. I'm busy working on our nursery and I can't wait to get everything in its place. Thank you so much for your thoughfulness. You're the best!

Mary Walker

Thank You, Christine's Secret Pal!

2007-01-30T18:22:00.000-05:00

Secret Pal, you are the best! Thanks so much for the darling Christmas dress that you sent for Samantha! This is going to be so cute with a white turtleneck and white cable tights! Yeah!

I so look forward to your packages every month, they remind me that this long process really will have a big prize at the end, a precious daughter to love. :-)

Thanks again for the wonderful blessing that you are every month,

~ Christine ~

Thought I would share our Captian Jack Sparrow photo....

2007-01-27T12:42:00.000-05:00

Here is Miss Wendy as Jack Sparrow!!! Aarrgghh, and my Goofy Pirate hat, too.

Lesa

Lesa's Secret Pal gift.

2007-01-27T12:21:00.000-05:00

I wanted to post my X-mas packages as well, but for some reason we can't find the photos....makes me so upset. We have three cameras, Mike's, Lacy's, and Holly's....who knows which camera they were taken with. I think Holly's, but haven't seen them since I took them.
If I find them today I will post as soon as I can. I want you to know we really loved the Candle Sticks! We had them on our table and enjoyed them the whole month.

As for this months package, I do have photos of them.....YEA!
We really loved the Frog hooded towel, duck hand puppet and the cute little crab bath toy.
Wendy loved her Mickey Mouse books, too.

I hate being behind in sharing my photos. I truely enjoy taking them and posting them for you and everyone to see.
Pardon Little Wendy....she has chocolate on one of her teeth, and I didn't know this as I was taking the picture. She is into Captian Jack Sparrow these days; so I guess that could be a blackened tooth. LOL

Thank you so much for being understanding. You are by far the best secret pal, and we can't wait to meet you.

Lesa

Thanks Melissa's secret pal!

2007-01-23T22:56:00.000-05:00

Sorry to post so late, but I just got my account reset on Blogger(too many passwords to remember r them all).

Thanks so much for the awesome Leap Frog magnetic alphabet! We all love it and know it will be very useful. Katie can't wait to start teaching her baby sister her ABC's... if only we could hurry this process along to do it sooner. You always send such wonderful suprises every month and we are so grateful to you.

Melissa

Thank You to Susan's Secret Pal!

2007-01-18T12:44:00.000-05:00

My dear Secret Pal, Happy New Year to you! I absolutely adore the Boynton book and little piggy!!!! I've never seen these and can't wait to look for upcoming books and stuffed characters. Scooter loved it too, and thought the piggy was for him when I pulled her out of the package. Little Miss Piggy is now sitting safely in the crib and matches the nursery perfectly!!! Roger loves the cookies and carmel corn--he's my sweet tooth in the family! He's definitely getting a kick out of my gifts and is always excited when a package is awaiting me.

Thank you so much for everything! You made my day yesterday, maybe my entire month!

Susan

Thanks a Bunch....

2007-01-17T21:00:00.000-05:00

What a lucky girl I am to come home to a wonderful SP package. Talk about an automatic smile! Well a big hug and thanks to you SP. I love the book / toy set; it's one we dont have yet. The plates and bowls are really awesome too. I love the way they are non-skid. I'm sure you are right & they will come in handy keeping the plates on the table. All bets are off tho that the food will stay on the plates...I'm sure Addison will throw some treats to the doggies Haha.

I really appreciate the notes that you write in the card too!! You are so sweet and thoughtful.

A Big Thanks to Cynthia's Secret Pal!!!

2007-01-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

Hi,
I so look forward to seeing a box covered with lady bugs sitting on my front stoop each month. Was thrilled to see a box their Monday night and couldn't wait to get it inside to open up. This month I received the most wonderful book called "Bedtime Book." I started reading the stories and couldn't put it down. They are beautiful. You are right the art work is fabulous!!!! I am going to go on her web site and hopefully find a print for Taylor's room. I can't wait to read the book to her. I am sure she will enjoy it as much as I do.

Every year I keep saying that I am going to get a pocket calendar for my hand bag/tote bag and never do. Well now I have one thanks to my SP and hit has lady bugs on the cover. I sat right down and started entering things and put it right in my tote bag. It will help me keep control of my often hectic schedule!!

I also really like the little "Hey Girlfriend" daily calendar. I have it on my dresser and each morning a look at the saying for the day. They are great!!! Definately put a smile on my face and make me start the day out with a chuckle. Always a good way to start the day :)

Thanks again secret pal. I love everything you send me. You have such great taste.
Cynthia

DUCKS, DUCKS, & more DUCKS

2007-01-08T18:59:00.000-05:00

I got the cutest secret pal gift today. The theme was "DUCKS". It had an adorable afterbath blanket (with hood) and washcloth. The blanket is white with DUCKS! There was the cutest bath temperature duck, a blue and yellow duck to float around the tub, and a beautiful stuffed duck wearing of course a yellow robe with DUCKIE slippers!!!!! ALL were in a gift bag with yellow ducks on it. As soon as I get my printer, which has my camera memory card slot, relaced after the fire I will post. Oh, I almost forgot. There were also 2 really cool chinese themed gifts. One was a book with stencils of chinese words; love, happiness, joy, etc. The other was a paper doll with a chinese girl and clothes. It was a great way to end a bad day and after last week I really needed the laugh. It was great and it all made me smile. Thank You for that Secret Pal
JoAnne

Pictures of my December gifts!!!!

2007-01-02T22:13:00.000-05:00

Finally - I got around to posting pictures of my great December gifts. And by the way in case anyone is interested the name of the book I got was 'outsiders within - Writing on Transracial Adoption'. It looks like a great book but I've had the flu since Christmas Day and haven't had a chance to start it yet. I'm hoping to next week - when I feel normal again. And the candle smells GREAT!!! I've already burned it a couple of times. I just love it and I love the top for it too. I feel much better burning it like that with the dogs 'bouncing' around with it lit. Thanks again SP for always sending such wonderful gifts - you really seem to know me so well. Kind of spooky. And honest I don't know who you are yet........

Again, thank you so much for the wonderful and very thoughtful gifts. You are truly making this journey a little bit brighter.

Until next month,

Hugs - but not too close - I'm still sick

Sherry

Happy New Year and Thanks to my Secret Pal !!

2007-01-01T20:57:00.000-05:00

Secret Pal,

Happy 2007! I hope you had a great holiday!

Thank you so much for the wonderful box you sent. I'm very sorry for the late response but I was out of town for the holidays and just opened it this weekend. You really outdid yourself... it was such fun to find all the surprises. I absolutely love the pink snuggly blanket, the tiny critter blanket(i know she's going to love carrying it around!), and the ladybug socks. The lighthouse coasters are awesome... i have a lighthouse themed room and they're perfect! I also love the scrapbook stickers... i love to scrap and can't wait to use them. Everything was wonderful! Thanks so much!

Thanks again,
Diane

Thanks From the Potters!!!

2007-01-01T20:52:00.000-05:00

Dear Secret Pal,

Thank you so much for the gifts for our girls!!! Beth LOVED her heart barrettes...and I just cannot imagine how cute Emma will look in her adorable dress. Everyone thinks it is so sweet! Your package means so much to us every month---especially your kind and thoughtful notes!!

2006 was a really rough year for our family...especially with 2 unexpected deaths at the end of the year. My husband and I toasted the New Year in last night with great hope and anticipation for health and happiness to our families, friends and ourselves and the dream of finally holding our little Emma and completing our family. (We wished for a little wealth for ourselves too...!!!) Anyway, we wish this also to you and yours secret pal, along with the rest of the GWCA June 2006 Secret Pal members!

And now a note from Beth:

dear secret pal,
thank you for my gifts and thank you for my hello kitty stuff .

i am happy becuse Emma is coming home when my parents get her.

i'll be exited too!

thank you for thinking about us every month.

i love you!
love,
beth

(She really means it, Secret Pal..she was so happy to finally have a chance to post along with her mommy! I did not help with content or spelling, either!)

So from all three of us, thanks again, Secret Pal.

Happy New Year!!

Love,

Jodie, David and Beth Potter

Danielle's Not So Secret Pal

2006-12-30T10:07:00.000-05:00

Sherry and Sonny sent these and some other absolutely adorable outfits for Danielle. This is the second box of "goodies" that they sent me. The other contained a winter coat, bathings suits, more clothes, a few stuffed animals, and sippy cups. I feel like Danielle now has her own "secret pal". She is a very luck girl to have you all behind her giving both she and I your support. She is going to be the best dressed little girl in all of Ventnor New Jersey. I can't wait to share her photos and all of the information I have about her. Hopefully my TA will come soon and the floodgates will open. I promise! Thanks Sherry and Sonny.

JoAnne (day 38 waiting for TA)

Thank you!

2006-12-29T19:27:00.000-05:00

Thanks to my Secret Pal. Your generous gift arrived today and boy, did I need it! I have to share the STUPID thing I did. My wonderful husband gave me a beautiful necklace and earring set for Christmas. Well, I loved it. Notice the past tense. In all the post Christmas clean-up and cross country travel, I inadvertently threw them away! I noticed this morning and I was just sick. So, today, as I sat wallowing in my self pity, I decided to take the dog for a walk and go get the mail. Surprise! There was your sweet package.
I love everything you sent - the onesies, the outfit, and the bib! Pink! The snowman earrings and pin are adorable. The calendar will be very useful and the chocolate and cake need no comment. :) Yum! The angel bear is so sweet and I am sure Caroline will love it.

Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness. Happy New Year to everyone!

Lynn

Thank You, Christine's Secret Pal!

2006-12-27T11:58:00.000-05:00

Dearest Secret Pal,

Thank you so much for the beautiful dress for Samantha and the wonderful treats! It is so exciting to have a secret pal, and it certainly makes the time go by quicker! Thank you also for the beautiful Anniversary Card, how special it was to be remembered on our special day!

I also wanted to include the picture of the adorable outfit that my wonderful Secret pal sent for November. I haven't been able to get a picture up until now. It looks so soft and comfy and I know Samantha will wear it often!

Thank you for being such a blessing during this time of waiting!

Christine

Carol's secret pal

2006-12-18T14:08:00.000-05:00

Thank you secret pal. I came home on Friday after spending a couple of days in Newport RI to find your package on my steps. I love the Grinch doll and book. I put the rest of the gifts under the tree to open on Christmas.

Thank you,
Carol

What a Great SP I have!

2006-12-15T20:49:00.000-05:00

I received such wonderful gifts today from my SP.....Nice end to the week. Got to LOVE the Fortune Cookie Snausages....for the puppies, of course. They have some cute sayings. I've never seen them in the stores yet.
Our other gifts include an initial ornament for Addison and a holiday jar with a great smelling candle in it.

We also receive the most precious tshirt for Addison and a holiday cd which I can't wait to listen to tomorrow. Amongst all those wonderful gifts were 2 yummy marshmallow santas...I already ate mine (no willpower here haha).

Thank you so much SP...you are awesome. HUGS to you! Have a great holiday season!!

Happy Hanukkah from my Secret Pal

2006-12-15T15:52:00.000-05:00

Happy Hanukkah!!!!

Danielle and I received the most awesome Hanukkah package from my secret pal today! It could not have come on a better day. Tonight is the first night of Hanukkah. ALL of the gifts were individually wrapped in Hanukkah paper and gift bags. Danielle got the best "stuff". She got; sippy cups, snack bowls with lids, divided dinner plates, disposable bibs, and disposable forks & spoons. Then, as if that wasn't enough, she got a panda book, stacking wooden blocks, and a personalized music CD jsut for "Danielle". It is all so great and VERY useful and needed. To top it all off I got Yankee Candles in my favorite scents. I am probably going to be taking most of Danielle's gifts to China with me. I already have a suitcase in my spare room with "things to go" in it (not packed of course). AND, here is some great new news. I got an email from GW and my dossier is being reviewed. How exciting is that?? Another GW Mom who accepted her WC referral the same day as I did already got her TA. She was LID in 11/05 so her dossier was already past review. But, using the new on-line system she was able to get her TA in less than 3 weeks. That's amazing. She is going to the same orphanage as I am and she promised to take photos of all of the babies she sees so that after she posts I will be able to see my Danielle. ANYWAY, enough about me. THANK YOU my secret pal. We (Danielle and I) love you and your excellent taste and thoughtfulness.

Happy Holidays to All!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love,

JoAnne and Danielle

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

2006-12-15T14:30:00.000-05:00

My Secret Pal is awesome! I was surfing the net the other evening, doing some last minute Christmas shopping, when my husband came in and told me there was a package for me at the front door. Inside was the sweetest little pink frame with 2 little pink booties attached. So cute! Also, some nice Avon hand cream and a shimmery star guest soap. There was also a big bag of peppermint potpourri (which my husband and I LOVE). Forgive me, Secret Pal, for not knowing what the last item is for, the little china girl tassel. Some I've asked said it's a book mark, while others say it's a zipper pull or chain for a ceiling fan? PLEASE enlighten me. Anyway, I loved it all!!! Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness, and have a very Merry Christmas!

Thank you to Lesa's Secret Pal!

2006-12-14T09:05:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much for all of the Christmas goodies. Wendy really loves the bells that you sent her. I told my family that on Christmas morning in Germany they ring the bells for everyone to enter for gifts. Mike liked the idea. I love the Candle Sticks! They will grace our dinner table. I know Wendy will love the CD. I've been playing Christmas music in the car.
We can't wait to try the new Coffee. Mike said he has heard of it before. I love Coffee, Cocoa, and Teas.
I absolutely love the ornament!!!!!!!! I haven't seen that one before. I'll have to go to that site and look. It is nice to know that the proceeds go to a really good cause. I love that Proverb....I have it on our new site for Mylie.
Just need to figure out the address so I can share.
Thanks again....we did take tons of photos, but once again the disc is new. I really need to find the adaptor.

Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Lesa and family

Special Holiday Wishes to my SP

2006-12-13T19:32:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much for the wonderful surprises SP! Katie & I were very excited about receiving our package. She was so touched to have a Christmas gift for her as well and loved the lip glosses. She asked me to send her "thank you". She was looking at them at Kohl's over the weekend actually and had to call her friends last night and tell them about our secret pal surprises. The dress and tights are absolutely adorable. Even Jeff (who is not usually into baby stuff) smiled and commented on how cute it was. Lastly, the "Darby Creek" veggie dip is so thoughtful. We were all thrown by that. We will use it on Christmas when we have family over in the bowl you sent with the neat spoon. Thanks again, you know us so well. Hope you and your family have a great holiday and happy and safe new year!

Melissa

Thank you SP - from Jennifer K

2006-12-12T22:16:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year, Secret Pal! Thank you for the wonderful paper dolls for Adrienne, for the cute little outfit for her baby sister, and for the chocolates for me!! They are all special and appreciated - many thanks!!

Jennifer

A Big Thank You to Cynthia's Secret Pal

2006-12-11T13:41:00.000-05:00

I love coming home and finding packages at the front door. It is a great way to end the day and if it is a Friday it is a great way to start the weekend. Last Friday my secret pal package was waiting for me and it made my day!!!! I was thrilled to find the most adorable outfit....blue corduroy pants, a blue and white print top and a really cute while fleece poncho. I am sure that poncho will get lots and lots of use. I can't wait to put the whole outfit on Taylor when she comes home. I also got two books...Good Night Moon and The Runaway Bunny. I have given Good Night Moon as a gift so often I was really nice to get my own. I will really enjoy reading it to Taylor.

Thanks again for a fabulous box of gifts. I love them all.
Happy Holidays.
Cynthia

Thank you to Diane's Secret Pal !

2006-12-10T18:35:00.000-05:00

Secret Pal, Thank you so much for the wonderful gifts! I returned last night from a week in Japan for work, tired, and dragging in the pile of mail... then, I saw a box in the door! I dropped the rest of the mail and opened the package. It was just the smile that i needed at the end of the long week. I love the ladybug light... it is now in my living room but once i do the nursery it will move there. It goes perfectly with the "bug" theme i'm planning (but for now i'll take it's good luck charm in the main room). The figurine is very sweet and warmed my heart. Thank you so much for the thoughtful gifts... you're a wonderful secret pal! Have a great holiday season! Diane

HAPPY HOLIDAY WISH!!!!!!!!!

2006-12-09T22:49:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to tell everyone Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year's.

I really feel so close to all you guys since we are all on the same emotional journey together. Sometimes I wish we could all get together for lunch and shopping because I feel like I know you guys all so well. I also think about you guys a lot when I'm shopping - I'll see something with lambs or in red or with surf boards or flip flops on it and I just want to call you guys and say 'I found the perfect xxxxx for you do you want me to pick it up for you?'. Then I remember that I really don't know you guys quite that well in that kind of way - just kind of weird. But I guess what I'm trying to say is you guys are always on my mind and if I'm having a good or bad day I'm worried or happy for you guys too. I know this roller coaster has had some bad dips on it lately and so in my book that means that we're due for some much needed ups too. Whether we truly get them or not isn't for us to decide but it is comforting knowing that I have all you guys riding the same ride with me. I know sometimes we don't always see eye-to-eye on things (like the wait times) but we can still openly express our feelings - kind of like you can do with family and really good friends. I'm so glad that I can count you guys in that bunch of special people.

I know I will be counting all you guys in my blessings this holiday season.

I wish everyone and theirs families health, happiness, and the strength and patience we'll need now and to the time we travel to pick up our new babies.

Sherry and Sonny Spring

Merry Christmas to Susan's Secret Pal!

2006-12-06T15:59:00.000-05:00

And, thank you for the wonderful Christmas package! I love the ornaments and have not seen anything like these before! I have a nice collection of "German" glass ornaments started, and these will add more memories to our Christmas story. Roger had just asked me if I was going to carry on the tradition of giving our little one an ornament every year, so thank you for our start. My mother has given my brother and I ornaments during Thanksgiving every year since we were children. With over 42 years worth and growing, Maiya may end up with her own tree in years to come. I think the Panda Bear may be my favorite ornament this year. I will post a photo Friday when I'm back at the office.

Also, thank you so much for thinking of my pampered pets and sending them the gourmet dog cookies! Lou can't get enough, so I had to put them away! Scooter hasn't tried one yet, but we will save him plenty for when he gets his appetite back. Scooter had surgery last Friday and came home on Sunday. They didn't find a tumor as suspected, but the nerves were abnormally swollen as were limp nodes, so they chose to amputate his front leg. He's doing well this week, but as expected he isn't quite himself. We assume the med's have slowed him down and have lessened his appetite, as well as the pain and healing. When we got him home he jumped from the back of the truck on his own and ran through the yard like nothing had changed. Then the med's wore off and he slowed down. Roger took Monday and Tuesday off from work to stay at home with the boys, and I've got today and tomorrow with them. We're awaiting to hear results of the biopsy, and hope and pray this will be all he has to go through at this time. You're package helped lift my spirits and brought some needed Christmas joy into our home.

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful gifts.

Susan

P.S. One bonus of having Roger home this week, he's almost got Maiya's room done! He finished painting this week and we're having the wallpaper hung on Friday. I'll post photo's when it's complete. Here's hoping our dossiers move into the Review Room by Christmas!

Jennifer K. says "thank you!"

2006-12-04T23:24:00.000-05:00

Dear Secret Pal,

Thanks again for the wonderful outfit for our little one . . . I just love it! You have great taste!! Everything you send is always wrapped beautifully, and you select such special items. Thanks also for the birthday treats . . . the cinammon candle is burning right now, and the CD brightens my days! You are a blessing,

Jennifer

Thank You to Mary's Secret Pal!

2006-12-04T10:58:00.000-05:00

GWCA JUNE 2006 SECRET PAL SWAP: November 2006
I've got the best Secret Pal! I was home ill and feeling pretty bad when there was a knock at the door. It was my November Secret Pal package! Talk about lifting my spirits! Inside was the sweetest, cutest little glow worm. You pull the handle on the bottom and it plays a lullaby and the wings light up. Tooooo Cute!! I can't wait to see my baby's reaction. That one may travel with us! My Secret Pal also remembered my birthday (the big "41") by sending me a beautiful coffee cup and saucer with a fall design, filled with a variety of tea bags and chocolate. My husband's the coffee drinker, but I do love hot chocolate and hot tea at times. It's absolutely perfect! Thanks again for everything and for making my "blah" day so much brighter! Maybe one day I can thank you in person! I WILL get photos added as soon as I can slow down long enough to figure it out!

Thank you Christine's Secret Pal

2006-12-03T20:42:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much for my November gift of the darling Gymboree outfit! I can see Samantha running around the house in it alot! I am sorry I haven't posted sooner, I kept thinking I was going to get a picture to post with my thank you, but hubby kept running away with the camera. :-) I have so enjoyed all of your gifts, they bless me so much as I get discouraged thinking about when we are all going to be next up for our referrals, but I know that God's timing is perfect.

Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and caring,

~ Christine

Thanks to my Secret Pal

2006-12-01T11:50:00.000-05:00

SP I love my November package! The meal time theme is great: the Use and Toss spoons, snack cups, and sippy cups are wonderful. Last but not least are the disposable place mats - I have never seen these, what a clever idea. Ok, most of these things fascinate me because I've never really paid attention to them as I am going to be a first time mom. I'm learning a lot! Thank you again for such a delightful, fun package. hope everyone had a joyous Thanksgiving.

GWCA JUNE 2006 SECRET PAL SWAP

2006-11-30T14:28:00.000-05:00

Thanks secret pal. Your box was waiting for me when I got home last night and it was a welcome surprise. The pink slippers are so cute and soft. Now I just need a pair of little feet to go with them!! Thank you for the candles and the gift card. I'm sure I will be hitting Best Buy before Christmas and I will look for a video for my future daughter.

Thank you,
Carol
GWCA JUNE 2006 SECRET PAL SWAP

To Our Sweet Secret Pal...

2006-11-30T08:43:00.000-05:00

Dear Secret Pal,

Thanks so much for the cute, cute, cute bath time accessories!! The towel, washcloths, spout protector and temperature duck are wonderful and will be so helpful in making bathtime safe and fun! We cannot wait to see Emma all bundled up in her towel after a fun bath with her new duckies!! Also, thank you so much for remembering Beth and sending her the Hello Kitty bath crayons/book and bubble bath. She loves Hello Kitty and was just thrilled!!

We have been going through a really rough time here right now (death in the family), but your package really brightened our day. Thank you again for all of your thoughtfulness!

Jodie and Beth

Thanks to the best SP ever!!!

2006-11-27T21:40:00.000-05:00

Thank you SP - you are the best! I just love the little pink dish set. And I love that the bowl has a lid and that is metal so that it won't break. Because I'm sure it will end up on the floor at least once. :)
I can't wait to get a picture of her drinking out of that little cup - the cup with the little crown on it. Because you know she'll be a spoiled little princess. And thanks for the journal. I keep saying I'm going to start one for her and still haven't. Maybe I'll start it on our 1 year anniversary of when we made the final decision to sign the contract to adopt. December 17th, 2005.

And you are so right 5 is so much better then 1, 2, 3 or 4!!!!

Thanks for always making my day brighter with your special gifts.

Sherry

Thanks Cynthia's SP for the Thanksgiving Day Card

2006-11-27T09:36:00.000-05:00

Hi,
I hope everyone had a very happy Thanksgiving and that you all survived Black Friday. I wanted to send a special thanks to my secret pal for the Thanksgiving Day card I received. It was a nice surprise!!!

Cynthia

Thank you for our package Secret Pal !

2006-11-26T19:40:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to say a big thanks to my SP! It is always a special day when the package arrives. I was home this week and heard the package left at the door. I think I will start putting the items aside for our journey...they are definitely going to come in handy. We love everything. Hugs.

Hope everyone had a great long weekend!

Michele

Thanks Melissa's secret pal!

2006-11-25T23:52:00.000-05:00

I have a great secret pal! In the mail yesterday I received a package with 2 beautifully wrapped presents and a great card. Darby got her first book called "My Peekaboo Book" and we have had a lot of fun with it already. The other suprise was a gorgeous silver picture frame with a ladybug, butterfly and dragonfly on it. It holds 3 pictures. I can't wait until we have a picture of her to put in it! I love ladybugs (even have a cute little ladybug tattoo) and was planning to put some in her room so it will go perfectly! Thanks again! This is so much fun!

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving holiday!

Melissa

This is no Turkey!

2006-11-19T21:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, all I can say is WOWIE - My pal is the greatest! We are so lucky! First of all we got the cutest jammies in none other than a pretty candy pink. One has ballerinas on it, which Paige went crazy about and kept wanting to try on! The other is cute little rosebuds-- they are just perfecto! Piper also got a bib (always needed) with little fairy bunnies on it, a soft stocking with a bear on it with a matching baby bear cuddle toy. Again, Paige really has her eye on the bear and we have to keep telling her - this is for Piper...

The piece de resistance (as far as Paige was concerned) was the HUGE lollipop. SP, you couldnt have picked a better gift for Paige - that girl LOVES LOVES LOVES lollipops! Frankly, I don't think she ever saw one this big and the fact that it has a cover so we can work on it a little at a time is super cool (for all of us)!

Thank you so much, SP for being so thoughtful and sweet. It sure is nice to get your notes and you clearly give a lot of thought to what you pick out! Thanks again and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

My Second November Package!!!

2006-11-19T15:16:00.000-05:00

I came home late the other night to find a large shadow sitting on top of my mailbox. It was my SP gift.
Inside was a treat for me~ my favorite cookies; I just love the Snackwell Devils Food Cookies!! How on earth did you know??
Wendy opened her treat bag up and found many cooking treats...right up her alley. She loves to cook with her kitchen items. She was so excited over it.
Mylie got the most adorable little outfit. I absolutely adore the tiny little hat. I just squealed when I saw it. I love the socks and top also. Funny I had just bought Wendy the little green top with the same fox on the bottom along the hem line. It will be so neat if Mylie is that small. If the CCAA is kind enough to us and gives us our request she could be that tiny! Mike and I requested 0-8 months; so I hope we are that lucky. I bet it will fit. Wendy was pretty tiny for her age when we got her.
Thanks so much. You are without a doubt the Best SP!
Lesa

November Surprises!

2006-11-18T16:46:00.000-05:00

What a special treat! My wonderful secret pal sent something for everyone today... I got the "Girlfriends Guide to Baby Gear" (I can't wait to read it!), an adorable Turkey Baster, and some yummy Bailey's chocolates. Tom got a great guide book for China - that is perfect for him - and baby Caroline-to-be got a great fishing bathtub toy and the cutest t-shirt ever. I'll let the picture speak for itself. Thank you again to my amazing secret pal. Can we keep doing this after our babies come home? This is way too much fun!

Lynn

My B-Day and November Gifts

2006-11-14T19:16:00.000-05:00

Sorry it took so long for me to post but it has been a bit hectic for me this last week. As promised here the wonderful gifts that I received for both my birthday (one of those 40+ ones) and for my November Secret Pal gift. Those that know me know that I LOVE books!!!! I have neither the Mother Goose or Shaoey and Dot. Check out the Big Bird Goes to China DVD! It even has Chinese in it. And, I love vanilla and the lotion and gel. Thank you so much.

JoAnne

Cynthia's Fabulous Secret Pal Gifts

2006-11-14T10:12:00.000-05:00

I get so excited when I come home from work and see a box at my front door. I forget everything I need to do like take off my coat and focus on opening the box and see what awaits me inside. Yesterday my box was waiting for me and I was blown away by all the incredible gifts inside. My secret pal rocks!!!! In the box of treasures I found Dora the Explorer disposable bibs, sippy cups, a tumbler, bib, placemat and dishes set. I think Dora is great and I can't wait for Taylor to use her Dora goodies. In addition, I got a package of Reeses Peanut Butter cups (they were delicious!!!), a Reeses Peanut Butter cup ornament, a pink flower with a lady bug night light and a cute lady bug maze toy. Everything is wonderful and I loved it all. Thank you Thank you Thank you.

It was perfect timing for all the Dora the Explorer goodies because on Thanksgiving my sister and I are going to be balloon handlers in the Macys Thanksgiving Day parade in NYC. Guess what balloon we will be walking down the streets of NYC....Dora the Explorer. Keep your fingers crossed for good weather in NYC on Thanksgiving.

Thank you again secret pal for everything. You are the greatest!!!!!
Cynthia

Photos for Lesa's Secret Pal Gift to Wendy!!

2006-11-13T12:13:00.000-05:00

Wendy really loves her tea set! Thank you for making her day. She also loves her bracelet.
By the way....the Lady Bug that you drew is simply fantastic!!!
Have you ever noticed that the photos never post in the order that you meant them to?? Oh well you get the idea of the order don't you?
Thanks again you're the BEST!!!
Lesa

Thank you to Susan's Secret Pal!

2006-11-13T09:26:00.000-05:00

After long and difficult week, it was so nice to come home and find a gift from my Secret Pal on Friday evening. We've been facing a very hard decision regarding our youngest dog, and my mind has been clouded with this matter for over two weeks now. This little guy (Scooter) has been our "baby" for the last 3 years, and we've hoped for him to be our little one's best buddy in the years to come. We're facing the reality of losing him if we don't remove his front leg due to a nerve tumor. Dealing with this has made me so melancholy, but has helped to put things into perspective. I truly don't know how parents cope with a terminally ill child, and can only hope and pray that our soon to be daughters are all healthy for everyone in this group. The sadness I've had over the last two weeks, was lifted when receiving my Secret Pal gift. It helped put a smile back on my face and hope in my heart. Thank you so much for the attitude adjustment.

Susan

My Incredible November Box

2006-11-11T10:19:00.000-05:00

I have been away at a conference and just got back to find a great SP box wating for me. I promise to post a photo and complete description ASAP. But, I wanted to make sure that my pal knows that I got it and love it!!! More to follow soon.
JoAnne

Michele's Secret Pal "October Gifts"

2006-11-10T12:29:00.000-05:00

First, I need to apologize to my secret pal for posting these pics a bit late. I should have posted them last month. I'm sorry! And I promise to be more timely in the coming months.

Okay, so my secret pal rocks the freakin' Casbah! She does. She sent some wonderful bathtime goodies. Zoe is very interested in this goodies, so interested that I might have to break into the bubble bath and the bath tints now.

But the rest of the goodies will definitely be saved for Zoe's future sibling.

Thank you, secret pal! Your gift was so much fun to open. Zoe and I had a blast tearing into everything. You are very thoughtful!

xx,

Michele