Pathway to Ethiopia

Introducing Alemtsehay

2010-12-27T20:40:00.001-08:00

Here is our beautiful seven year old sponsor daughter! Please consider doing this. Greta has 40 more children at Kechene she is trying to find sponsor families for. Just click on the button, Give me your eyes, on the right. She has pictures of available children posted. You could change the life of a child in Ethiopia in 2011!

Sponsor Child

2010-12-23T14:06:00.000-08:00

I am totally excited as I am waiting to see the face of my sponsor child. I hope it comes before Christmas! This reminds me so much of when I was waiting for my referral! Here are some fun pictures!

Small World

2010-12-16T19:26:00.000-08:00

It has been a long time since I have blogged. School began this fall and we have been so incredibly busy. Soon I will post pictures of our lives. For now, I have a story to share. For a long time now we have been praying for Ethiopia and for direction. I shared some time ago about Children's HopeChest and the possibility of sponsering a child in Ethiopia through them. I am sure many of my fellow bloggers already have a sponsor child. Anyway, life got busy and we put it on the backburner telling ourselves when our other house sells we will make a decision. Tuesday was Adonu's third birthday. We recently discovered our eight year old's name, Niah, is African when spelled Nyah. So we looked up the meaning of her name, on Tuesday, on an African name sight. It means purpose by the way. Cool. We decided to look for Adonu's name as well. Our search ended without any results. I decided to google his name. I clicked the first page that was in English. Amazingly it took me to the blog of a family who lives about an hour from us here in Wisconsin. This family is helping Children's HopeChest find sponsers for Kechene Orphanage. The very same place we visited in Ethiopia! One of the sponsor children posted on their sight had the name Adonu (Spelled Adanu). I couldn't believe it. Even more amazing, we closed on our house this morning. What are the chances of this all happening-Adonu's birthday, same name, house selling, local family, same orphanga? Not likely...All things are possible with God! I am so excited about how God has shown us which direction to go! I immedietly contacted the family. They recently traveled to Ethiopia in November and have 55 new kids that need sponsors. They will be posting information about the children very soon. I am so excited to see what child will become our next Ethiopian angel! The family asked me to share with all my friends that they have new children who really need sponsors. So, if you are interested their blog is greta-givemeyoureyes.blogspot.com. There button is to the right. Another amazing family doing amazing things!

Fun Stuff Everybody!

2010-08-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

Check out the Matthew family giveaway. I think this is a very fun fundraiser.

Heart Check-up

2010-08-20T07:39:00.001-07:00

I am one that thinks it is totally exceptable to think that ones own children are the most adorable children in the world. I also believe it shouldn't stop there. The Bible tells us in I Samuel 17:7B that "Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." I have been praying about this as we are about to begin a new school year. So much of school for us is centered on heart training. I try to teach my children that all we learn throughout the year should bring honor and glory to God and that their actions should always put others first. My Sunday school teacher handed out a poem a few weeks back that I want to share. As I prepare my own mind and heart to teach my children this year I pray I can be the example that God wants me to be.

I'd rather see a sermon, than hear one any day:
I'd rather one should walk with me, than merely show the way;
The eye's a better pupil, and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing but example's always clear.
And best of all the preachers, are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everbody needs.
I soon can learn to do it, if you'll let me see it done:
I can see your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lectures you deliver may be very fine and true:
But I'd rather get my lesson by observing what you do:
For I may not understand you and the high advice you give.
But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

unknown author

So now here are some pictures of those adorable children. These were taken while boating on our camping trip last week.

Here are pictures of the adorable cousins we were camping with. I just love the sunglasses!

Another Milestone Gone By

2010-08-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

My six year old lost his very first tooth last night. The difference between his initial reaction and mine were like black and white. He was jumping up and down with excitement and I had tears in my eyes. To me a tiny tooth in his little grasp was another goodbye. Goodbye to that sweet little boy smile! Those big teeth, no matter how straight and pearly white, just look so grown up. I suppose that is why we call them grown-up teeth. My wise ten year old upon seeing my reaction said, "He is getting old, soon he will have gray hair and a bald spot!" It helps to be reminded that their are many firsts to be had yet! Here are a few other firsts that brought tears to my eyes:
1. First night in big boy crib
2. First giggle
3. First kiss
4. First step
5. First time saying mama and I love you
6. First day in Sunday School
7. Last day with his first Sunday School teacher
8. First time on a two wheel bike (I'm not sure why-just seemed big)
9. First Christmas performance at church (and each one since)
10. First time writing his own name
Admittedly I didn't cry when he slept through the night or went to big boy undies. Maybe tears of joy!

Adonu had a first a few days ago that made me cry for a whole different reason. His first filling. I cried because he cried. I cried because I felt GUILTY! It was so painful to watch him go through this. Before the procedure started, the dentist said, "I see kids from Ethiopia who are 16 with perfect teeth. It isn't until they come to the United States and start eating so much sugar that this happens." I think he was basically telling me that the cavity was all my fault. As if I didn't feel bad enought! He then started drilling on my baby who started to scream and had to be held down. I was feeling very low! So was Adonu!

Following this difficult visit to the dentist, I decided to take my kids to the zoo for the day. I even bought the kids a treat while there and tried hard not to feel GUILTY!

Personally, I think my boys have very beautiful smiles. What do dentist know anyway?

Children's HopeChest

2010-07-28T07:07:00.001-07:00

This is an oldie but goodie. A few posts back I talked about my feelings of being overwhelmed by all I saw in Ethiopia. I have also talked about the impact the boys at Kolfe had on my family. In fact, I still email some of those young men! I can't believe the difference in the facilities at Kolfe from before Children's HopeChest intervention to now. There is a picture of Kolfe in the video. The boys are sleeping on mats on the cement floor. There is no paint or comfort. This is not the helpless picture of Kolfe I saw when I was there. The kids had bunk beds, cubbies, a television, painted walls and curtains. They had chickens, a garden, a kitchen, a soccer field. Awesome the life skills these guys are learning and all they have done to their home! When we visited I could tell they took great pride in their work and are preparing themselves for adulthood. This is so important for the future of Ethiopia. I think Children's HopeChest has an awesome program going on. I would love to hear stories from those of you who are sponsoring children.

The other morning we had a missionary at church. He gave a visualization of a pile of treasure on one side of the pulpit and an illiterate African man on the other side. He asked us which is the bigger treasure. He challenged us to think about what we value and what we spend our money on. The work at Kolfe and all the other orphanages in the video has been accomplished with about a dollar a day per kid you sponsor. Really? I spend more money on my coffee than that. Yet my husband and I had ourselves convinced we should sell our other house before making a commitment. I can see the progress that is being made and am feeling ashamed of what I have been valuing. God is really pricking my heart these days.

Wondering

2010-07-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

I'm wondering how many children are going to bed tonight without a kiss from a mom or dad? How, in a world this beautiful, can this happen?

Post Adoption Blogging is hard!

2010-06-28T19:58:00.000-07:00

I thought I would start my post with some new photos taken by a good friend Gail. You can check out the rest of the pictures on her website at www.gtphotgraphy2010@weebly.com. I can honestly say that this was one of my favorite photo shoots. Very relaxing. We surprised Dad with these photos for Father's Day this year. He had no idea. So much fun!

I think post adoption blogging is so hard and I have read other blogs that say this same thing. I do continue to check the FBI list almost everyday as I pray for the families in process. I feel as though Adonu is so much a part of our lives that I hardly think of HIM as being adopted. That doesn't mean I don't think of adoption though. In fact, I think of Ethiopia and all those faces of children growing up without a family each and everyday. My heart goes out to them all. I have a very tender spot for all those older children. In their eyes I see my children, nieces and nephews and I think who is reading to, praying with, kissing on and loving these children. They are the same as my children at home, needing love. Not a day goes by where I don't think these things. It seems so big. I spend money and have beautiful photos taken of my four children, but what about all those orphans. I am having a hard time blogging because I can't get this out of my mind and yet I do nothing. Honestly, I feel overwhelmed and don't know where to start. Does anyone else out there have this problem. It is like I feel called to do something, but what. Sponser a child, adopt again, support a program like Kidmia? Does this problem of orpans and where to go post-adoption overwhelm anyone else out there? Seriously maybe it is a form of postpartum depression but for adoptive families? I think I have been subconsiously avoiding blogging because I feel as though I'm doing nothing for those we left behind. All those beautiful faces longing for a family. Ethiopia was the most mentally changing event of my 35 years, but what about life changing?

In the end, God has the answers and I know he will lead me and my family as we continue this journey. For now, I pray for guidance and pray for the ability to surrender my will to his plan for my life.

We moved

2010-04-28T20:32:00.001-07:00

The last four months have been insane. We bought a new home and an apple orchard. We now own about 187 apple trees and a goat named Socks. We purchased the fifteen acres behind our new house two years ago. When our new house and the orchard went up for sale we decided to take a look because it borders our land. Our thoughts were if we absolutely loved it then we wouldn't have to build. Worth a glance, right? Guess what? We loved the house and land and well...here we are. I'm happy to say we are moved, back online, and adjusting to it all. If someone would have told me I would move 31/2 months after bringing my son home from Ethiopia I would have laughed hysterically. Praise the good Lord Adonu is such a happy going little boy. He hasn't missed a beat with the move. He has so much room to play now and it has been fun watching the kids adjust to country life. I mean, a goat, come on!!!! I was a total city girl and now I own a small hobby farm. We are learning a lot as a family about caring for apple trees and I'm even composting. Who would have thought! Two nights ago I actually mowed lawn on a John Deere riding mower. WOW!

Through it all, Ethiopia is on my mind daily. I was so happy to get back to the FBI list and check out the adoption world. We are excited to see the wonderful Tucker family is adopting again. What a blessing. I'm also excited that a local family just submitted their final paperwork to Gladney for an Ethiopian adoption! It is truly amazing to watch God work in the lives of so many!

All I really want for Christmas

2009-12-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

Every time I hear this song I have visions of all those beautiful children I met in Ethiopia. I pray this year many orphans will get their wish of a family. Now, after listing to this song again, I'm going to go sit in my son's room and praise God for bringing us together as a family this Christmas.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-19T19:59:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my son has been home for fifteen weeks. I know all parents brag about their children so I am just asking everyone to please forgive me for this but, I think Adonu might be a genious. He turned 2 December 14th. Gladney said his birthday was accurate and I have so much faith in them. Tonight he sang the entire ABC song with me three times. He is saying up to five word sentences in English. He also sings almost all of twinkle twinkle and ba ba black sheep. He is so amazing. The credit goes to the awesome caregivers in the Gladney Foster Center. What amazing women. I am so glad they spent so much time with my son. I just know he will become someone great and make his family in Ethiopia proud.

Here is a copy of our Christmas letter we mailed with our card. Merry Christmas to all my friends!

Merry Christmas 2009

This has been an extraordinary year for our family as we traveled to Ethiopia to bring home our son, Adonu. We feel incredibly privileged to be blessed with the opportunity to raise this boy. He is an adventurous two year old that has completely fit right in with our family. The judge in Mauston couldn’t have said it better when he said, “Sometimes God just drops an angel in your laps.” Adonu is very happy and intelligent. He is picking up language so quickly and makes us laugh daily. We can not imagine our family without him.

Emma and Niah continue to enjoy home school, 4-H, swim club, piano lessons, and church activities. They love to help take care of their new little brother. Jason started school this year and loves it. He learned to ride a two wheel bike. He also braved his way through outpatient surgery for his trigger finger release. Jason is so proud to be a big brother!

As a family we did some camping this year, traveled to St. Louis two times, and went to Mayo Clinic for a medical conference. Brad had a near death experience after a bee sting this summer. We now know he is extremely allergic to Yellow Jackets. He will go through immunotherapy this winter. We wouldn’t want a little bee to slow him down during his biking, camping, running, hunting…….activities!

Our trip to Africa was the highlight of our year. The people of Ethiopia are wonderful and part of our hearts will always remain there. Traveling to a third world country was a life changing experience. We have learned how truly fortunate and wealthy Americans are. At the same time we realize that people around the world are similar in that they value God, family, and friends and can enjoy life without extravagance. Brad and I are praying about how we can continue to help people in need so that they can enjoy all Christ has given them. This experience has taught us to reflect on how much we have, the things that make us happy, and how we can serve others in need.

It is so easy to get wrapped up in ourselves and our own families during the Christmas season. Jesus Christ came to this earth to serve others. He gave his life for you and me so that we can go to heaven. This was a gift, he asked for nothing in return. “For by grace; are ye saved through faith (in Jesus Christ); and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” Ephesians 2:8. We ask ourselves, whom have we served? Are we following Christ’s example? Our family prays you choose to accept God’s gift and follow Him this Christmas.

With Love,
Brad, Beth, Emma-9, Niah-7,
Jason-5, & Adonu-2

Two Year Photos!

2009-11-23T10:58:00.000-08:00

Court Hearing

2009-11-02T19:45:00.001-08:00

We are so excited to have the final step in completing our adoption done today. The judge was amazing. He commented that he read Adonu's file and was amazed at what he had endured and how far he had come to be here. He then paused and looked at us and said, "Sometimes God just drops a little angel down into your laps!" I had a hard time not crying! It is awesome that he said this as I commented in my last post on how nervous I was to have a toddler put in my lap! I love how God works things out! I also think the court day was important for my older children. It seemed to have given them a real sense of inclusion in the process and provided some closure for them on finalizing Adonu as their forever brother.

Confessions and Court dates

2009-10-31T15:07:00.000-07:00

Our family has been tremendously blessed with the addition of Adonu. He is such a sweet little boy. I just can't tell you how much I love him. I have to make a confession that maybe others have felt? I think deep down I'm a little shocked at how easy it has been to love him. Secretly I worried a little that it will be hard to love a toddler just plopped in my lap and that I would favor my biological children. This is so not true. It reminds me of the posts a month or so back where everyone was talking about the love they have for their adopted child/ren and the impact they have had on their lives. I now have a full understanding of the sweet words I read on those blogs and I'm overwhelmed by the capacity to love which God has given us. Sometimes I feel guilty at how easy our transition home has gone and I feel bad posting becuase others have had a difficult time. Know that I'm praying for you all.

October has been busy. We took our second trip to St. Louis. It was much different this time as compared to six months ago. A toddler sure changes the dynamics. We took our 15 year old niece to babysit the little ones while we were at the hospital. This was a smart thing to do! After Emma's appointments were done, we enjoyed going to the top of the arch, visiting the science museum, the zoo, and doing some shopping. Adonu was an incredible traveler even when I took a wrong turn on the way home and added two hours to our six our drive!

We have also been enjoying fall fun carving pumpkins, jumping in leaves and eating too much candy! We moved Adonu's bed into Jason's room and they were both super excited. Now I need to transition him to a big boy bed!

We have our court date on Monday. Please pray that it goes smoothly and that Adonu will officially be an American!

Adonu's Dedication Day

2009-10-09T20:50:00.000-07:00

Adonu is doing amazingly well as are the other children. It seems like he has always been here. We can't believe how much he is talking! He says, "Shut the door" and "I lub you." Super cute! He loves to be sung to and to dance. He is a ball of energy who gets into anything but toys! He was scared of the dogs for about a week but will play fetch with them and pet them now. He eats well, but doesn't like vegtables very much. We have decided to keep his given name with a small change in the spelling to aid in pronunciation. We just love the way he says his own name. It is very fitting.

Very excited for the upcoming court season and seeing more of the beautiful children of Ethiopia finding forever families! Praying for God's will in the lives of those older boys at Kolfe. Keep your hearts open!

Orphan Sunday November 8th

2009-09-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

Orphan Sunday from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo.

o.com/6317258">http://vimeo.com/6317258

More Random Thougths

2009-09-18T10:01:00.000-07:00

More random thoughts about our trip. The top picture is of some markets we passed. These were everywhere. Genet told us people come from the country to sell their produce and handmade items in the markets. Some have shops such as these and others lay their items on blankets on the ground. It was neat to walk around the markets our driver took us to. The workers were very kind and enjoyed showing us their things. We bought some traditional clothing for our children, a flag, and other small gift items. There were often beggers or children selling bubble gum at the markets. We learned that one Birr is enough for them to buy some bread so we started carrying around Birr. I believe one Birr is about 12.5 cents in American dollar. People were so appreciative of our gifts. We also brought friendship bracelets and small airplanes for the kids we saw. So fun to watch their faces with these new treasures. One boy we ran into had a homemade toy as seen in the picture above. He told us how he made it and demonstrated it. It seems that children don't really have store bought toys, they make things from the items around them. How crafty! The children loved having their photos taken and we did this often. I took a lot of photos at the Kolfe boys home, which I will talk more about later. If anyone is traveling to Ethiopia soon, I would like to send the photos of the boys with you. They really wanted me to send pictures back of themselves with their friends to hang by their beds. I have printed many and would love for someone to hand them out. I think they would be so excited to get them. Let me know if this is something you would like to do. Those young men were amazing and I'm not yet ready to talk about that experience. Very emotional for us.

I was shocked at the housing in Ethiopia. The tin wall in the second photo above is what we saw a lot of. There were miles of small houses with this tin for walls and dirt floors. We could look down streets and see people outside their houses washing dishes and doing laundry. Laundry was hanging everywhere! Genet told us that people rent these tin houses. On the opposite side of the street though there were often high rise apartments and beautiful government buildings. We weren't allowed to take photos of the government buildings, but the difference between them and many neighborhoods was astounding. Even in the living conditions, the people were truly content and enjoying life! I feel guilty when I think about the enormity of my house compared to what I saw in Ethiopia and I wish there was more I could do. Honestly though, I keep going back to my own obsession with a clean house and nice stuff and I compare this to the contented lifestyle the people of Ethiopia have. I realize they have it right. Their families are their blessings not their things. If only more Americans could regain this mindset!

Lastly for today: Entoto mountain. I was sick the day we took this trip so I don't remember very much of the museum and church tour. My husband loved seeing this church which was the first ever in Ethiopia. He also enjoyed the museum and all the history. I believe it was 30 Birr per person. Again, I was ill so it is foggy. Speaking of ill-if you go anywhere make sure you use the bathroom before you leave the guest house. It seems toilets are rare in Ethiopia. If you like camping in remote areas you will be fine with the bathroom situation. If you are not an avid outdoors person, this might be a little awkward for you. I'm not saying it is bad, just very different than what we are used to. Also, bring a travel pack of kleenex in case you really need to use the facility. I didn't see toilet paper very much. On the way down the mountain, we saw a lot of donkeys, goats and woman carrying firewood, as in the photo above, grain, or water. The woman and children we saw going up and down the mountain are tremendously strong and hardworking. As a side, it smelled very good up there. It was nice having a break from the diesel smell from all the blue vans in the city!

My children are needing to be redirected back to school. More later:)

Home Sweet Home

2009-09-16T19:25:00.000-07:00

Life has been full of fun new adventures in the last week at home. I haven't taken the time to blog because I'm just enjoying Adanu and my family. I'm hoping to get some things down over the next few days though. Above is a picture of our first meeting with Adanu. He was a little nervous at first, but warmed right up as you can see in his smiley picture at our guest house. Adanu is a very spirited, active, happy boy. He is such a blessing to us.

We stayed at the Bejoe house. This guest house is beautiful as you can see from the photo. The staff is amazing and I am forever changed by all the things they shared with me. I would recommend anyone staying there. If you are traveling soon, tell Genet hi from us. She is a wonderful addition there and helpful beyond measure! My favorite part of staying at the guest house was watching the staff interact with Adanu. His face just lit up when they spoke Amharic and he interacted so well. I was able to learn some words that we are still using. They taught me dog, open, car, spoon, come, look and many other words. I will be sad when Adanu looses his Amharic but I'm glad I caught his interactions on video for his future! I pray we are able to pass his culture on to him.

I also posted a picture of the church that Belay took us on a tour of. What an emotional tour that was rich with history and faith. Amazing. I am so thankful to Belay for sharing all the historical information about his family and his roots in Ethiopia. The people of Ethiopia are a very loyal and loving group. I am so proud to say that my son is an Ethiopian. Thanks to Belay for giving us this view of his wonderful country.

We went to an Ethiopian restaurant one night. I tried injera for the first time. I actually liked it. Some of the food was a little spicy for my taste, but mostly it was delicious! The dancing was way cool. We ended up buying a CD with traditional music and Adanu loves it. He dances to it and even tries to sing a little.

I'm tired, my spelling is falling apart and I need to prep for school! So more later. Chow!

My boy!

2009-08-20T18:07:00.000-07:00

I wanted to show you the newest picture of our boy. We will be there soon baby!

August happenings

2009-08-20T17:35:00.000-07:00

We have been busy this month taking a trip to Rochester MN for a medical conference, participating in the county fair for 4-H and then camping with our family. In the pictures above Emma is showing our dog, Maddie, for obedience and her cat, Tiger, for show. Below are the kids with their cousins. Emma and Niah were wearing their new cowgirl boots they have been so excited to get.

On the adoption front, we are preparing for our trip to Ethiopia. I am past my nervousness of traveling half way around the world and am now getting down to business packing and preparing to meet my new son. I'm not quite sure how to do that last point, but I am praying that God prepares us all for the meeting. My butterflies remind me of how I felt the night before my wedding. I realize this will be a huge life changing event for us all. I am excited to get on with the show!

Moving to Africa!

2009-08-05T20:46:00.000-07:00

Borrowed this from another blog. Definitely worth looking at.

I want to share with you two families that are moving to Africa this month...the Kennedys and Michael, Jana and Ruthie.The Kennedys have four children under the age of five. Their youngest, Addis, was adopted from Ethiopia through our agency. They will be living in Malawi, home of more than one million orphans, for two months. Their mission is to help Esther's House, a new orphanage, get up and running. What an awesome experience!! A camera crew is filming their journey for a reality show set to air in 2010. They are raising money for Esther's House through donations and t-shirt sells. All profits of the t-shirts go the Esther's House. Their button is on the right side of this blog.

The other family is moving to Addis Ababa to work with Gladney adoptive families. They adopted their little girl, Ruthie, from Ethiopia earlier this year. I think working with adoptive families and children waiting for their forever families has to be the best jobs in the world...next to being a mommy :o) You can follow their journey here: http://www.eyestowardethipia.blogspot.com/ Pretty perfect blog name, don't you think?Will you join me in covering these two precious families in prayer? I am just so excited to follow their journeys. What faithful servants of God!

Introducing Adanu

2009-07-31T10:37:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to introduce Adanu (Ah-dawn-oo) to you! I wish I was great with words and I had something amazing to say, but with a huge lump in my throat all I can get out is that I love this boy so much already and God is so good!

Neighbor Referral!

2009-07-29T09:34:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce that our friends down the street just received a referral for an 11 month old boy from Ethiopia. Now "A" will have a friend near his age from his birth country! CONGRATULATIONS!!!

I love how people post about their nesting experience while waiting for a court date. We have something similar going on around here. It mostly involves silly ways to pass the time. Here is a photo from the other night when Brad helped me color my hair. Yes, I do color my hair everyone! I'm trying to convince Brad to color his for fun. I have never seen Brad with this much hair!

Round Two!

2009-07-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

Just got the call with a new court date for this Friday, July 31. I'm excited to see other families have also been moved to that day! I love seeing God answer prayer. My brother preached last night about how to have a more effective prayer life. I am amazed at the timing of this message and am now dedicated to getting more serious about my prayer life! God is mighty and good things will happen this week!

Brad and his brother competed in their triathlon Saturday. Brad finished 51 out of 358 with a time of 1:22:22. Brian finished 69 out of 358 with a time of 1:25:59. Nice job guys. Here is the cheer I heard from the kids: Swim, bike, and run, Daddy's number one! Grandpa bud, age 92, came for the event. It was his first triathlon experienced and he loved it! Maybe he will compete next year!

After the triathlon, we participated in a local parade with our 4-H club. A fun filled weekend.

Court Date Cancelled

2009-07-23T15:59:00.001-07:00

When mountains rise before us, we seek the Lord. He will help us overcome this new hurdle.

"Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me" (Jeremiah 32:27)?

We are sad, but know that "A" and all the other children affected by today's cancellations are happy and healthy in the hands of their caregivers. When the time is right, we will bring them home. Until then we ask for prayer for continued health and joy and for new court dates for all.

Triathlons and missionaries

2009-07-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Brian, Brad's brother, (left) and Brad (right) at their last triathlon. They did this as a team. Brian ran, Brad biked and the guy in the middle swam. They took second place. Brian and Brad have become very competitive lately. On July 25, they are competing in a local triathlon. They are in the same heat so it should be exciting. May the best man win! Good luck guys!
We were blessed to have this family stay with us this weekend. They are the Rains family and have been missionaries to Kenya since 1997. They adopted their daughter, Winnie, from Kenya. You can view their blog at sites.google.com/site/mtrainsandfamily to learn more about their mission work and prayer requests. It was so wonderful to visit with people who have lived and served in Africa. They also gave us information about others in our area who have adopted from Ethiopia. Their home church has many adopted children. I'm so excited about the new friends we've made through our adoption.

Adoption Anxiety

2009-07-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

Ten days until our court date and I'm beginning to feel a little anxious. I know in my mind that God's way is perfect, but my heart is being stripped and exposed. How is it that I have a son half way around the world and my ability to bring him home is based on a decision to be made in ten days. I feel like I've been waiting for this moment forever and it has only been a few weeks today. Time is standing still. I ache for an update, a little information to give me insight into his personality. I yearn to kiss and hug on him. OK, I'm sappy and whiny. I feel so sad for those families who are affected by MOWA's closing because I know you are all feeling as I do and are now waiting again. This process does get harder as it progresses and I know my faith is growing stronger as I put my trust in God and his plan. How I am feeling reminds we of the verse that talks about how the trying of our faith worketh patience. I am trying to be quiet, to be patient, to take in these glorious moments as I wait to officially become a mom for the fourth time. I am also rejoicing in the blessings God has given our family. I want to thank all my local friends and family who have already contacted us about donating humanitarian items for us to take to Ethiopia. I have had many people ask what they can give. Brad and I are overjoyed with the outpouring of love and support. We so appreciate you all.

I am leaving you with some pictures of the last few weeks.

Our children with their Critchfield cousins.
Brad's foot and ankle after a small bee bite. I am scared of what might happen next time!

Here is the big catch of the day! LOL!

Emma's fish may have been a hair longer!

Niah is always up for a hike in the woods. She loves to discover new things. Robin-don't laugh at the socks and sandals it was so cold the week we camped!

Court Date

2009-07-07T14:03:00.000-07:00

Praising the Lord today as we received our court date-July24. My seven year told me that she has been asking for prayer for a court date every Wednesday night in children's prayer meeting. I can't think of a better way to show her how God does answer prayer. Thanks to all who have been praying. Our next prayer request is to pass court, not only for our family, but for all who have upcoming court dates as we near the rainy season.

Care Package

2009-06-24T06:27:00.000-07:00

I wanted to show all my blogging friends this blanket I'm sending to "A". A friend of mine made it. She has a website business called sew adorable. The blanket has "A's" name in the corner folded down. The brown material has textured little bumps for him to feel and the edging is silk. If you want you can have a verse, saying, message put around the edging. I have ordered larger blankets for friends who have had babies with all their birth information and a verse. I just love them. I think this little one will be a perfect lovey for him to have while we are waiting.

Details and Extras

2009-06-22T07:22:00.000-07:00

I was folding laundry when the phone rang at 1:31. When I saw the 817 area code my heart skipped a few beats. It was so funny how I tried to answer the phone with a normal voice. I even said, "Hi Jessica, how are you?" When Jessica said she had a referral ready I literally started shaking and told her I would have to get a hold of Brad. I'm glad she had me write her return number down because in my state of mind I'm not sure how long it would have taken me to find her direct number. I called Brad and he says, "I wasn't ready for this and I have patients back to back all day. I can't come home!" Luckily, he had a break in his schedule at 2:20 and we decided it would be best if I went there. I quickly called her back and she said that would be fine. I kept thinking in X minutes I will see my child. I had promised Brad I would not ask any questions. I was absolutely dying to know how old he was! So we jumped in the car and rushed to Brad's clinic in Elroy. This is about 15 minutes away from us. I was shaking the whole way and my youngest son was so oblivious pointing out cows along the way. Below is a picture of my kids waiting for Daddy to finish with a patient. I was pacing back and forth. His nurse must think I'm nuts! We called Jessica back at 2:31. The first question I asked was how old is he? I was so shocked when she said 18 months. I was so sure we would get a referral for a 3ish age child. All I kept thinking is that he is a baby! I mean 18 months is still diapers and a crib! I was stunned into complete silence. Then the pictures popped up and I think my throat swelled shut and my eyes welled up. I'm not sure if other people scream or cry or what, but I was silent except I remember saying, "Look at that button nose". He was so small compared to what I was expecting. All I could think was that I just wanted to scoop him up and snuggle him! Then I remembered back to when we were waiting for our homestudy and it seemed to take so long. I was trying so hard to remember that it is all in God's timing. Now I can see the whole picture. "A" was 18 months and two days old on our referral day. We were only requesting down to 18 months. Had our process happened any different, we wouldn't have received his referral. So, for everyone still waiting, I know the timing will work out perfect for you with the child God has planned. Hang in there the moment is absolutely worth it! I am still not down from my mountain top of excitement. He is so precious and I can't even explain to you how much I have fallen in love already.

Below are a few more pictures of what we have been up to in the past few weeks.

We finished helping out with a neighborhood house painting project.

We had our home school end of the year program and graduation.

We celebrated Dad's birthday with a bow hunting cake!

REFERRAL!!!!!!!

2009-06-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

Referral for a beautiful 18 month old boy. We were very surprised as it is only week 7! Our caseworker told us that no matter when we got the call, we wouldn't have been prepared. Chatty me was literally speechless. I feel so honored to be his Mom. Praise God for answered prayers!

Random Thoughts

2009-06-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed spending time with our cousins from Ohio and their two little girls. I must say these two little girls are so precious. We always wish we lived closer after spending time with them. There are just some people who you really connect well with. I feel this way about this family. We so appreciate their efforts to visit each year and feel so blessed to have them in our family.

My pictures are a little out of order. The middle two are from our church service Sunday evening. Emma, Niah and a friend named Annie sang "Trust and Obey" as a special. They did wonderfully and I could hear them all the way in the back without a microphone. It was an emotional service as we said goodbye to our youth/assistant pastor and his family. They have been called to serve in Tennessee. We will miss them and their little boys. They have had a huge impact on our family as we have grown in Christ during the last three years. We are excited to see how the Lord will use them as they continue to serve Him.

I checked the FBI list today and am excited about new referrals and court dates for all the Gladney families. I noticed that the Fournet family has a court date tomorrow and urge everyone to pray. This family has been waiting so long. I admire their faith through these difficult times. During our service Sunday our Pastor referenced Isaiah 41:10. I thought this verse was encouraging as we wait during all stages of this process. It says, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." I also really appreciated 2 Tim. 3, "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." As Christians we are reminded that through our suffering comes far greater rewards. I'm sure this is similar to what my husband and his brother are going through with training for their triathlon this Sunday. It takes a lot of painful training to win! Maybe adoption is like a triathlon with three stages, paper chase, waiting, passing court. Well Fournet's you are nearing the finish line and God is at your side! May tomorrow be the day! To Brad and Brian-Good Luck!

Feed the Forgotten

2009-06-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

FEED THE FORGOTTEN

Too often we hear heartbreaking stories like this and do nothing. We feel helpless. . . and so we move on. Not this time. There are people DYING in Uganda right now. There are children who's bellies are hungry and aching. There are mamas who are too weak to stand and babies begging to be held. There are people trapping termites hoping for food and eating dung in helplessness. DO NOT CAVE TO DESPAIR. YOU CAN DO SOMETHING.Join us and Children's HopeChest to Feed The Forgotten... (CLICK HERE to give now) (note: please write FEED THE FORGOTTEN in the notes section)

For $0.14, we can feed someone a meal of posho and beans. (posho is cornmeal, which is filling and beans are protein).
Take that in for a moment. . .
$0.14 a meal
$2.86 for 20 days
$1 per FAMILY
$20 feed a family for 20 days. How much was my cappicino and newspaper yesterday? The bigger question is how much am I willing to give up so that others might eat? Remember Jesus story of the Good Samaritan? Remember how his very neighbors walked right by him? They probably looked at him with pity. . .probably thought "oh poor guy, that breaks my heart" but the fact is THEY DID NOTHING!

Will you help? The money raised will feed those precious children. There are 3 - 4 villages that Hope Chest is targeting (They are hoping for more after they see how much money we can raise!) to bring food relief to asap. These people are literally starving. . and waiting for you to act. Will you help? Even with paypal fees (2-3%) even $1 will feed 6 people! You CAN make a difference.Spread the word, blog about it, facebook it, twitter it, ask your church or school or business to give, post the blog badge anything. Truly, we are begging you. . .on behalf of these children not to forget this post and move on to the next in your google reader list. Stop, pray, act.GIVE TO FEED THE FORGOTTEN CHILDREN! (note: please write FEED THE FORGOTTEN in the notes section when you give)

To get the blog badge and spread the word, go here to Brandi's Blog.

Neighborhood Project

2009-06-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

We had a busy weekend. Saturday we spent the whole day working on a neighbors house. The people who own this house are elderly and the husband lost both his arms four years ago. Their house was in need of some clean up, repair and paint. One of our neighbors is the pastor of a local Baptist church. He organized some workers from church and us neighbors. We spend one Saturday cleaning brush and then this past Saturday scraping and priming. I was so proud of my kids as they hung in their all day helping with the priming. Jason took a mid afternoon rest on a blanket and we all stopped for a lunch which other neighborhood women organized. It was a fun neighborhood project with a valuable lesson for my children. Projects such as these always seem to grow though. We had to run for more primer halfway through. We had intended to prime and paint on one day, but only finished the priming. This just means we get to spend another fun day painting in two weeks!

Dinosaur Birthday and Dreams

2009-05-27T06:17:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Jason's fifth birthday over the weekend. He had a dinosaur party. We played musical dinosaur stomp, pin the spots on the dino and other boy games. He really had a great time. His cousins Isabella and Max were visiting. We had bought a snow cone maker and the kids had a blast crushing ice for the yummy treat. Jason made a wish before he blew out his candles. Maybe his wish was,"Please let my brother come home soon!" Jason and our puppy Maddie have the same birthday. She turned one year old and showed off her good looks with a new pair of sunglasses!

I thought I was handling the wait list thing fine but I had the oddest dream last night. Our caseworker called and said she had to talk with us at 5:30am on Monday and would we be available. I asked my husband if he would be home. This is odd because we are usually sleeping and of course he's home. In my dream, he wouldn't answer me. He just stared and I kept asking if he would be there. I finally yelled, "BRAD!" Then I awoke to my husband shaking me saying, "What?" I guess I really yelled his name. I have never done that ever! I asked him what I sounded like and he told me I sounded very panicked. Maybe I am panicking that I will miss the call or that we won't be able to get together to see the pictures. Who knows but we are one month down and many more to go.

Happy Anniversary

2009-05-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

Happy tenth anniversary baby! Like many other woman say, I think I have hit the lottery winner in husbands too. God has blessed me beyond measure with this wonderful man for a husband. This morning I awoke to roses, coffee, muffins and a card in which he wrote the sweetest message. I am so looking forward to this next year together. I am sure it will bring many joys as we anticipate the arrival of our fourth child! I love you forever!

May Celebrations!

2009-05-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

I went to Las Vegas with my Mom (on the right) and my best friend and her mom for Mother's day. It was nice to get away, relax and catch up with great people.

While in the airport on the way home, we got to watch part of the filming of a new movie called Up in the Air. We were excited when George Clooney came out. I got some great shots. A trip to remember!

When I came home from Vegas, we celebrated my daughter Emma's ninth birthday. She wanted to have a sleepover with a few friends and go to Ginza. The girls had a wonderful time and everyone tried new foods.

We have been on the wait list for three weeks and four days, but whose counting? I am so excited about all the court dates this week and all those who are traveling. Know that you are all on in our prayers!

Computer Crash

2009-05-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

Last week the motherboard on my old computer died. I was at a complete loss without it! My brother said to me, "Oh, you are one of those one computer families". I guess I am out of the technological loop. I still don't own an ipod. Now I have a new computer with no programs on it. I need to get Microsoft and a picture program. Any recommendations for good software to organize photos? While the computer was down I see a lot of Gladney action has occurred. Congratulations to all who made the wait list, received referrals and passed court. Also in the last week, I traveled to Las Vegas with my mom and lost ten pounds while suffering from some odd virus. I'm happy to be home, have a computer working, and finally be healthy. Who would have thought the wait list time would be such a roller coaster already!

Curses

2009-04-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

I had heard stories of children in Africa who were killed because their teeth came in out of the normal order. I think I was hoping this was just one of those crazy rumors going around. Then I found this video on another blog. I really am at a loss for words and the sadness in my heart is huge. The Bible speaks clearly of the evil in the world. When it is put right in front of my eyes I am left with a great desire to teach these people about the one true God. Imagine all the innocent children who have been needlessly killed because of false religious beliefs. I am humbled that Christ is using my family to save the life of at least one child and am praying about how else he can use me. I know that adoption doesn't work for everyone, but there are so many ways to help children all over the world. I would like to challenge all my friends and family to pray about how God might use you.

Wait List!!!

2009-04-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

We just got the email that we are officially on the waitlist. Words can't express the joy we are feeling today!

Boston Marathon

2009-04-23T20:02:00.000-07:00

Ethiopian Deriba Merga Wins Boston Marathon 2009

What else can I say. We love Ethiopia! I'm hoping this will be either Brad, Brian, or Robin's face at Crazy Legs this weekend. Best of luck racing guys!

CIS Approved!!!

2009-04-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

We just received our last document, I-171H! Only eight days after our fingerprinting appointment. Praise the Lord! Praying for those who have court this week!

Faraway Fingerprints

2009-04-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

I love that I just drove on a five hour round trip adventure to be fingerprinted with my wonderful husband. We had so much time to talk without three little ones in the backseat. Thank you so much Jackie and Delaney for playing with the kids while we were away! The fingerprinting itself took twenty-three minutes. That is the time it took us to plug the meter, get fingerprinted, and be back on the highway. Lets just hope that immigration approval comes back to us quickly too!

Easter Treats!

2009-04-10T19:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you Robyn for this wonderful sweat treat idea. I have to admit I'm not much of a baker and this seemingly simple treat was a challenge. Once I realized I needed to freeze the balls of cake, so they wouldn't slide right down the sucker stick, it was so much easier. The kids were very patient and had so much fun decorating the treats after I figured out how to keep them together. These tiny treats pack in a huge sugar punch. I will be limiting the number we eat to one at a time or we will be bouncing off the walls. In the bottom picture, the kids are showing off the crafts they made earlier in the day with a few of the daycare kids.

I love Easter for its crafts, treats, baskets, and egg hunts. I really love Easter though because it is the holiday where I can remember that I serve a living God who loves me so much that He sent His only Son to die on the cross for the remission of my sins. I love that I have a living Savior who is in control of my life and who loves me and sees me through all walks of this life. It is a blessing to know that His hand is over our adoption and that the same God who loves me is loving my child in Africa! I can't wait to teach him about our Lord and Savior! I hope everyone is having an awesome Easter weekend.

Gladney Approved!

2009-04-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

We just got the email that we are now Gladney approved!

CIS Appointment!

2009-04-04T15:58:00.000-07:00

We spent a night at the Kalahari. The kids loved walking around checking out the African artwork. I love this picture of the kids with the map of Africa in the background. While at the hotel/waterpark/theme park, we mini golfed, played games, and went swimming. It was a nice getaway.

Since our last post we received our final copy of our homestudy and mailed it off to Gladney, CIS, and KBS. Today we got our fingerprint appointments in the mail for April 14. Hooray, that is only a week and a half from now! It feels good to have things moving along again.

Blast Off!

2009-03-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

We had home educators classes tonight. We began making rockets which we plan to launch this May. Here are a few photos of the project.

This past weekend we bought new bikes for the girls. We had only intended on buying Emma a new bike. She needed a bigger bike and was ready for gears. We had planned on letting Niah use Emma's old bike. Niah convinced her Daddy otherwise when she said, "Dad, flower and princess bikes are not my act!" Dad asked what kind of bike she wanted and she showed him a red, boys dirt bike. He thought this was so funny and she got her bike. I am just glad she will have brothers to hand it down to!

Speaking of that little brother, we received the second revised copy of our homestudy today! I'm hoping this will be the final copy. We hope we will be Gladney approved soon. We are praying for those families with court dates tomorrow. Some have been waiting so long and our hearts and prayers go out to you all!

Surgery Day

2009-03-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Here Jason is, with his crooked thumb, waiting for surgery. He was not scared at all and was a very brave boy.

Here is Jason with a perfectly straight thumb after surgery. He was a little groggy at first, but brightened up when he saw his Twizzlers. Thirty minutes later he was dressed, in the wheelchair, and waiting to be escorted to his car. Children are absolutely amazing when it comes to tolerance of medical procedures. When we got home he ate a whole sandwich and wanted to play at the park! We are praising the Lord today as his hand of protection was over our little boy. Niah is playing "God is so Good" on the piano. That about sums our day up!

That's a crooked thumbs up to snow!

2009-03-09T16:54:00.000-07:00

My four year old loves to give us the thumbs up. I'm glad for this as I noticed that the thumb on his right hand seemed to be more bent than the one on his left hand. The first time I noticed it my husband, a physician assistant, was working urgent care and didn't get home until midnight. So, being a good mother, I forgot all about it. A few days later Jason was telling me he was going to be five and I noticed the bent thumb again. Duh! I ran to show Brad. He told me Jason had a trigger finger. Jason went to the orthopedic surgeon the next week and the Dr. said he has a cyst in there. So, he will have to have a little surgery to cut it out. Jason is actually very excited about the whole thing. We'll see how he feels when he wakes up with stitches.

The kids were pretty excited about the new snow over the weekend. In their hearts I can see they are anxious for spring too as they made a snow bunny instead of a snowman.

No word back on the revised home study. We appreciate your prayers and encouragement.

Gross Anatamy and Homestudy

2009-03-02T11:46:00.000-08:00

We went to a children's museum over the weekend. The girls took turns climbing the rock wall. Niah made it all the way to the top! When she was finished she told me she was shaking up there. I would have been more than shaking. Jason loved the fire truck area. The new exhibit for the month was gross anatomy. The kids learned about burps, toots, snot, urine, and everything else-yucky. They had a blast.

We were excited to receive the rough draft of our homestudy last week. Hooray! Gladney has had it since Wednesday for review. Please pray that the review and revision goes quickly so we can move on to the waiting stage. Grandma and Grandpa sent us this picture of Niah trying out her new snowboard. This is from their visit last weekend. They have a great hill just across the street from their house. The kids always have a blast there.

Family Unity

2009-02-23T11:21:00.000-08:00

Sunday's are the greatest days. We spend most Sundays going to church and then hanging out with my brother's family. They have seven children ranging in age from three months to fourteen years. My kids have so much fun playing with their cousins. They are making memories to last a lifetime. I have to admit I have a lot of fun playing with the kids too and hanging out with my best friend and sister-in-law Jackie. This last Sunday we celebrated Holly's fifth birthday. Holly is in the red dress on the back of the couch. I talked the kids into a group photo by asking them to make their crazy faces and the adults joined in too! I was able to snap a photo of most of them smiling in between silly moments. We also spent some time on Sunday watching old films from when my mom was a baby. My dad recently put these on DVD and brought them to me this last week. It was so awesome, and emotional, to see my grandparents and other family in their youth.

The kids were also happy to spend some time with Brad's parents over night Friday and Saturday with Dad while I worked on a continuing education class. They got to go sledding and bowling and had a blast. Brad didn't take a camera so I don't have any pictures. Maybe Grandma can send me a few?

My husband and I have been discussing all the blessings the Lord has bestowed on us lately. It is one of the reasons we feel called to adopt, to share our many blessings. Listed at the top of these blessing is our family. Weekends remind me of the precious gift that family unity is. The Bible tells us this in Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for a brethren to dwell together in unity!" I know Brad and I are seeking to maintain unity in our family as God has called us to do.

Good Friends

2009-02-18T19:31:00.000-08:00

Our good friends, Dave and Michele, gave us this coffee for Valentine's Day. They said they saw it at the store and couldn't pass it up. We were very touched by their thoughtfulness. It is amazing the emotions that anything with Ethiopia attached to it elicit for us. It is as though drinking this coffee brings us one step closer to holding our little boy. It is wonderful to have friends who we can share this experience with. As a side note, the flowers in the background were a surprise from my friend Tiffany. They were delivered on Valentine's Day. So beautiful! This post goes out to all of our wonderful friends who have been so supportive with our adoption. We love you guys!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T14:34:00.000-08:00

Valentine's day was spent doing crafts, making heart shape pizza's and hanging out with babysitter, Kelsi, while Mom and Dad got away to do some shopping. Mom and Dad were feeling happy and relaxed after an afternoon away and the kids had a blast.

We are also happy to announce that we have a new member to our family. We received a call tonight from our brother and sister-in-law with the news of their new puppy! We are excited to meet her and look forward to many puppy tales!

Sympathy Pain

2009-02-12T18:42:00.000-08:00

Jason started the day with a croup cough, spiked a 102 fever around three and ended the day with a puke bucket. Luckily, he had two companions to share in his misery. Amazing how the dogs stayed by his side the whole afternoon. Even at his lowest moment, Jason is stroking Skeeter's head. Pets are such a wonderful way to teach a child about compassion and dedication. 1 Timothy 4:4a "For every creature of God is good."

Packer Buddies

2009-02-04T11:29:00.000-08:00

Jason had his friends Allie and Karson over to play today. It was nice not having him tell me he was bored while his sisters were doing school. The boys thought it was so much fun that they were wearing similar sweatshirts. All day long they carried things in their pockets.

We are still waiting for are home study report. Our social worker said today that her transcriptionist is back in the office after having surgery and it should be coming soon. I am in one of those hurry up to wait moods today. I know that God's timing is perfect and that he has our son picked out. I know I should be happy and rejoice in all delays because that means the time will be perfect for the referral God has planned. The verse I am memorizing today is Psalm 69:13 "But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O Lord, in an acceptable time: O God, in the multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation."

Cabbage Patch Adoption

2009-01-28T06:54:00.000-08:00

Big sister Emma really wanted to give Niah an African American cabbage patch kid for her birthday so they would each have one to play with. It was so sweet to listen to them play. They brought all their clothes down and packed them in little bags. They then pretended to fly on an airplane for a long long time. Finally, they arrived in Ethiopia to meet their little girls. Their scene of meeting their new "babies" was so sweet and I pray mine goes as well as their imagined game. After picking up their girls they got to go to a hotel for a week and get to know their new children. Have I mentioned how much I love that our decision to adopt has broadened our children's world view. Never could I have imagined my children playing this game and it was so amazing to watch! They are really beginning to have a desire to help others in need. I feel like they are also realizing that children across the world are just the same as children across the street. "Learn to do well; seek judgment,relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow." Isaiah 1:17

Tumbling into Year Seven!

2009-01-26T08:17:00.000-08:00

We had a fun time celebrating Niah's seventh birthday this weekend with family and friends. We went to a gymnastics facility and let the kids go crazy during the open gym time. Niah shared this celebration with her much loved cousin Isabella who turned six. Thanks to Aunt Robin who set this terrific day up. The kids burned off a lot of energy runninig and tumbling. A much needed outing during the deep freeze we have been in the middle of. Thanks for all of the wonderful gifts. Our family is very giving and Niah has so much to be appreciative for. "Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father." Ephesians 5:20a.

I have a dream.....

2009-01-19T09:37:00.000-08:00

Half of our home schooling day was spent discussing the life of Martin Luther King Jr. today. We read the books Martin's Big Words by Doreen Rappaport and Rosa by Nikki Giovanni. I highly recommend these books. We then did a craft were the kids each drew a picture of themselves with their brother from Ethiopia. It was fun to see their drawings of what they think he will look like. Below the pictures we put Martin's words, "I have a dream that one day in Alabama little black boys and black girls will join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers." We then discussed what the Lord said in 1 Samual 16:7, "For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance,but the Lord looketh on the heart." Straight from the Word is the truth of all matters of appearence. I believe Martin would have agreed with this when he said, "Love is the key to the problems of the world."

Over the weekend, the girls participated in a speaking contest for 4-H. Niah recited "When Herbert Got a Hotdog" by Kenn Nesbitt. She did great with a score of 97. Emma recited "The Dentist Pulled my Teeth Out" by Kenn Nesbitt. She also did great with a score of 95. I am proud of their hard work.

Ready to Attack!

2009-01-16T21:05:00.000-08:00

We were lucky to have some fun in the snow with our cousin Delaney last week as it was -22 degrees below zero this morning. We have been stuck in the house for four days and we are all getting cabin fever! So, we pulled out the game of Life, Uno, and Monopoly Junior and have been battling it out. We are ready to attack on many fronts, snowballs, board games, and adoption paperwork!

Making Progress

2009-01-14T19:54:00.000-08:00

I am so excited as I received my book, From Ashes to Africa, today. It is even autographed. Josh and Amy's adoption video, meeting Silas, was the first I watched after deciding to adopt. They have been an inspiration to us as have many other blogging families. I want to thank everyone out there for sharing their stories. I can't wait to start reading the book.

About our process, I was so happy to have mailed off a huge packet of information to KBS dossier last week only to have a list of items with changes needed this week. We are almost through the list and are praying the second packet is met with more success. I thank the Lord we decided to use KBS. It is a relief having someone else review our documents. I'm hoping to have a homestudy report back within the next few weeks. The end of the paperwork is near! Hooray!

Why Adopt?

2009-01-09T15:38:00.000-08:00

I would like to start by explaining why we want to grow our family through adoption. Ephesians 4:4-7 says "According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;" Adoption is God's idea and plan. It was not an afterthought. God knew that we would sin and become orphaned ourselves. Because of this, he planned, before the world was created, to redeem us through his only son Jesus Christ. Redeem means to buy back or rescue something that was lost. We were bought back into God's family through the blood of God's son Jesus Christ. Why did he do this? So that the glory of His grace would be praised. We have chosen then to adopt to continue to glorify God in His plan that was set in place before the world was here. We will strive to raise our son to glorify God and we hope to model God's mercy and justice through our adoption. I imagine the hardships that Jesus endured on the cross for my sins and I know that we can endure any hardships or stress that may come through this process. I also realize how wonderfully rich and full my life has become since I acknowledged that I am a sinner and that I need Christ as my saviour. Since this time, I have been adopted into God's family and have benefited from his many blessings. My husband and I are excited to share all that we have been blessed with with our son from Ethiopia. We hope that you will journey with us as we follow God's leading on our pathway to Ethiopia.