Our Journey to Grace

I get by with a little help from my friends...

2012-02-01T16:24:00.002-07:00

The Lord has a wonderful way of bringing good things out of difficulties, doesn't He?! With all that has happened over the past month or so, I came to the realization that some things needed to change in our schedule. While praying, I had the idea that next year I would need to find someone to teach in the girl's classroom two days per week, so that I could cut back to three days per week. That way, I could attend to things like doctor's appointments, sick children, grocery shopping, etc. These are things that David has been doing a lot of, and it's evident from his last work situation that he just can't do it all!

So, I mentioned this to David and he thought that it was a great idea. But, he also wondered if there was someone who could do it this year. It had to be someone who was great with kids and really loved to be with them. It also couldn't overtax this person with what they were already doing to serve in our church.

It turns out the perfect person was someone whom I talk to every day! Meredith was already at the school a lot, she's great with kids and she loves the girls (and the Lord!). For Meredith to consolidate her time at the school into two days (rather than multiple short times every week) actually simplified things for her. Plus, the money that she would make could go straight into their adoption fund.

Now, it may seem counter-intuitive that I would work less when we have a geater financial need. But, the amount of time that David has needed to take off of work to attend to family things was causing more of a deficit than my working could make up for.

I'm so grateful to the Lord that He gave me the idea, worked out the details, and made it a win-win situation for everyone involved. Another win is that my girls get to be with their Aunt Meredith two days per week. I love that they have the opportunity to have other Christian women sow into their lives. What a gift!

Sooooo, last week the kids had a field trip for school. It was sort of sad to miss the field trip, but really good to have a day off (at least sort of off, because Jadon was home sick with me). I spent my time filling out grant applications, doing a puzzle with Jadon and helping David.

Fortunately, my other amazing friend, Laurel, sent me some photos from the day. She was the chaperone for the group that Lily was in, so I got some fun photos of Lil.

Such precious friends.

Laurel's family also took Jadon sledding with them a few weeks ago. I love this photo of my little guy in the snow!

I am so grateful for such wonderful friends. I absolutely could not get by without them!

Wouldn't this be cute...?

2012-01-31T09:32:00.002-07:00

On your little guy?

And wouldn't this one be precious

on your little girl?

If you're interested in buying one of these tees, click here.

Please remember to put our family code (BANDIMERE0124) in the coupon code field during checkout.

(The last four digits of the code are numbers, starting with a zero.)

Thank you so much for helping us to bring our sweetheart home!

dreaming with God

2012-01-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

I find dreams so facinating. While we're asleep, God has the opportunity to speak to us apart from many of the distractions that we encounter during the daytime hours. Of course, not all dreams are from God, and dreams are certainly not equivalent in significance to Scripture. But, God-dreams do have a certain quality that is unique and we can ask our Lord what these dreams mean in the light of Scripture.

A couple of weeks ago, one of my children had a significant dream. I knew that this dream was from the Lord, so I asked her to write it down:

I had a dream that we all lived in a place where you had to buy gas masks, because it was dangerous to breathe without a mask. These masks looked just like the ones in the World War 1. Kinda looked creepy, but it was okay. These masks were kind of like clothes. They could all come in different colors and styles and stuff, and you could refill the air in a machine almost everybody had. Most wealthy houses had many gas masks, but they were expensive for the “poor people.” In the dream, all the poor people lived in the dump. Truckloads would come with used gas masks. All of them would usually have about five minutes of air left in them, and the trucks would come about every 30 minutes. The trashed masks would be set on a metal shelves in the dump. The poor people couldn’t afford the masks, so they would usually use the air left in the trashed masks, but usually they wouldn’t have enough air in them to sustain them while they would try to find another. Many died this way. In my dream, I would go to the dump to visit the “poor people.” When I saw their condition, I brought them masks so they could breathe easily.

I asked my child what she thought the dream meant. "It's love," she replied. "The gas masks are love. We have so much of it (in our family and in our lives). It even comes in different colors! But there are many people who hardly have any love. Sometimes we visit these people (like orphans), and we give them what is left over. Sometimes we even bring them an abundance of love. But then we go home, and we forget that they don't have love. I don't want to forget anymore."

Neither do I, baby. Neither do I.

dreaming of a day when all will have an abundance of love...

dreaming with God...

just because...

2012-01-28T12:11:00.002-07:00

I can barely stand the cuteness.

(oh my goodness, wasn't she adorable?!)

I love you, my curly-headed, beautiful grinning Yana-girl.

distraction

2012-01-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

Leave all to Me. This is your great task, to get calm in My presence, not to let one unruffled feeling stay for one moment...No matter who frets you or what, yours is the task to stop all else until absolute calm comes.

God Calling, January 26

Oh my precious Jesus, how I have ignored You over these past couple of weeks. Forgive me, my Beautiful One. I have been ruffled more times in the past month than I dare say...hurt feelings, concern for R.'s adoption, irritation, focus on myself, and frustration with people...distraction, distraction, distraction.

I turned to You for moments, but I ignored what I know to be true...that I must remain in Your presence until peace comes. Thank you, Jesus, that You continued to pursue me, that You waited for me when I forgot all about You. Thank you, Jesus, that you are the calm in the storm, that I can rest peacefully in Your love despite every circumstance. Thank you that You care more about R. than I ever could and that You are working a great miracle to bring her home.

Jesus, I am learning. I am learning not to let distractions deter me from Your love. Please keep teaching me. I so want to love you more. I so want to live in Your presence every moment of every day.

Thank you, Dear Jesus, for Your absolute calm.

It always comes when I let You in.

And they came to Him, and awoke Him, saying, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing!" And He said to them, "Why are you timid, you men of little faith?" Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and it became perfectly calm. And the men marveled, saying, "What kind of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?"
Matthew 8:25-27

participating with God

2012-01-25T16:02:00.006-07:00

As of today, David will have finished up his current job. And even though it was financially detrimental, we are grateful for some of the things that we learned. I'm just so proud of my husband. He truly is a humble, giving and amazing man.

As we have been thinking and praying about adressing the financial need we have for adopting R., I have had a strong sense that the Lord would provide abundantly. He has provided for all of our other adoptions and we are absolutely confident that He is the One who led us to adopt R. So, we trust that He will give us all that we need!

That is not to say that the sum of money isn't a bit daunting at times. When I feel overwhelmed, however, I choose to remember all that He has done in the past and to trust Him with the future. Already this past week, we received $150 more than we were expecting from an insurance claim due to hail damage last summer, David received a check for over $200 from a job that he had forgotten about, and some dear friends offered to pay for our girls to take dance this semester (that made me cry). Our God is so generous!

We know that it is totally up to our Father to provide the funds that we need for R.'s adoption. But, we also want to participate with Him! So, David will be working some extra hours over the next couple of months, we're tightening up our budget, and we've decided to do a couple of fundraisers. The first fundraiser is something that I'm really excited about, because I LOVE these t-shirts.

Yes, we're doing a fundraiser with Wild Olive! And if you click here (or on my sidebar), it will take you to the page where the adoption fundraiser t-shirts are sold (there are many wonderful designs). In order for our family to get credit for any of the t-shirts that you buy, you must enter our family code (BANDIMERE0124) in the "enter coupon" field. Please note that the last four digits are numbers, starting with a zero. And please do not feel any obligation to buy a t-shirt, but if you'd enjoy having one or if you know of someone else who'd love one, we'd greatly appreciate your support.

Thanks so much, dear friends. I'm excited to see what God will do!

Look who's got a new mama and papa!!!

2012-01-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Precious Lucy (now Heidi Eleta) is officially a Jacobson now! And oh my goodness! Don't they make a beautiful family?!

So very, very grateful for the the Jacobson family and their love for this little sweetheart. Darling Heidi will be going home soon!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-24T21:23:00.002-07:00

Gong Hey Fat Choy!

Happy Chinese New Year!

Chinese New Year is always special at our house. It's the most important holiday in China and we just love celebrating this festive time of year with our beautiful Chinese children.

We kept things very low-key this year, but the kids were super-happy with Chinese food at home and red envelopes with chocolate inside (instead of the traditional money in the envelopes).

After eating a few bites, Lily exclaimed, "I wish it were Chinese New Year every day! I love this food!"

Everyone else agreed, and I promised them more Chinese food during the rest of Chinese New Year (which lasts for 14 days).

Happy New Year everyone!

Are your ears cold? (I stole this title from Meredith)

2012-01-22T18:37:00.000-07:00

Don't you absolutely LOVE this adorable headband?!

(and I think that the model is pretty cute too)

Well, you can have one for your very own!

(the headband, that is, not the model)

And even better than getting a totally cute headband, you'll be helping Leslie and her husband with unexpected adoption expenses. Just hop on over to Meredith's blog to see this and other ear warmers that you yourself could be wearing in a very short period of time for a very reasonable price!

Thanks so much!

a battle of love

2012-01-21T10:53:00.002-07:00

This photo has nothing to do with this post, but I just think my four-year-old Jadie-boo is beyond cute. Oh how I love this boy!

Isn't our Jesus amazing?! No one loves the way that He does! I do so want to be like Him. The battle that we have been engaged in continues to worsen. But, our God is and will be victorious! His victory is in His love and in His justice, but it is HIS justice, not my own. My job is to love and bless. Jesus, I don't want to forget that! Help me to love. Help me to bless. This is a battle that can only be won by the precious love of Jesus. And I'm not talking about the money here. Money is truly no obstacle to our Lord. But, I'm talking about the battle to trust, love and praise in all circumstances. You are worthy, Jesus! Thank you that you let us play a small part in Your battle of love. May we be found worthy and may You have all the glory!

a little something good

2012-01-20T07:36:00.002-07:00

After 8 months of attempts, we are finally officially registered with the central*adoption*registry in Ind*a. Woohoo!!! We had gotten caught up in the restructuring of adoptions in Ind*a, but now things finally seem to be moving a bit. It's a busy time for adoptions from Ind*a and nobody really knows how everything is going to look when the restructuring is finally all in place. We're expecting to get more news, hopefully in the not-too-distant future. Please keep praying for all of the waiting children and families.

sleeping cuties...

2012-01-19T19:03:00.003-07:00

While sitting here, waiting for news (soon please) from Ind*a, I decided to distract myself with a little trip down memory lane.

Oh my goodness! I had forgotten that David and I always used to find these two in the same bed.

Could they be any cuter?!

Goodness gracious...melt my heart.

Uh...that doesn't look so very comfortable.

sniff, sniff...where does the time go?

I love you, my little sleeping cuties.

??????

2012-01-18T14:12:00.000-07:00

We recently received an email from our agency representative, informing us that on January 20th, Ind*a's central adoption authority will open up the special needs section of their website. At that time, our agency may be able to lock in R.'s file and we could finally have an official match. But, since this site is completely new, no one really knows how it will look and whether or not it will work without glitches right away.

Except our Father.
He knows.
And He cares.

He cares for all of these precious Indi*an children.
He cares for all of the families who already love them.

Would you pray that the site would run smoothly on the 20th?
Would you pray that waiting children and famlies would move one step closer to one another on the 20th?
Would you pray that R. and V.'s files would be locked in on the 20th?

Thank you so much, dear friends.
Thank you, also, for your prayers for our adoption finances. The issue with David's client is not fully resolved yet, so we would greatly appreciate your continued prayers. I just know that our God is ready to do some amazing things!

God is chuckling : )

2012-01-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

When we moved into our house two-and-a-half years ago, I told David, "Those are the ugliest cabinets I have ever seen. But, we won't ever get new ones, because I don't want to spend the money on cabinets."

Well...I think that God is chuckling right now, because we are currently the proud owners of an amazing set of custom cabinets. They can either sit in our garage, or we can put them in our own kitchen. Quite incredibly, David will only have to modify one cabinet in order for them to fit in our kitchen. Soooo, we are doing some remodeling this week! And because David is a carpenter, he has enough leftover materials from other jobs that all that we need to buy in order to finish this job is a used oven fan for $20 (ours is broken) and some paint.

Here's a sneak peek of our new cabinets.

I'd much rather have the money (for R.'s adoption), but if it had to be something, at least it was something we could really use!

Yep. God is definitely laughing right about now!

guess what we're doing...???

2012-01-15T22:22:00.002-07:00

I'll give you a little hint:

think lemons/lemonade

Thank you again for all of you prayers! I cannot even begin to express how much your kindness and love have encouraged me. Just know that I am so very grateful.

Our circumstances may not have changed, but our perspective certainly has.

And in all things, our God remains completely faithful...He is so worthy of our complete trust. I am confident that He is going to do a miracle to bring R. home to us!

I'll update soon.

So, do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself.

2012-01-13T07:53:00.001-07:00

I woke up early this morning in tears. We had received an email back from David's client saying that her decision remained final. I felt angry and disappointed and all that I could think was how could anyone care about perfect cabinets in a world where there are broken children?

I came upstairs to pray and the tears kept coming. What were we going to do? How could we adopt R. when we would have to use every single penny that we had for this project? Would we have to completely start over? Would this delay her adoption even more? I wept for a long time.

But then our dear, precious Father reminded me of something..He reminded me that He was the One who gave us the money (miraculously) in the first place. The week after we had said "yes" to adopting R., we found out that we could get back taxes from past adoptions with the tax refund. We hadn't qualifed for the credit, because we didn't pay enough taxes, but we had no idea that the refund could also be carried over from past years.

Immediately after He brought this to mind, His overwhelming peace came over me. How could I be worried about money? Hadn't God provided for every single child that He had brought into this family? And then I remembered the verses that He had given to me last week. "Do not be worried about your life...who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life...seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself." (Matthew 6)

Last week, when I read these verses, I knew that He was asking me to trust Him in that particular circumstance, but now I realize that these verses were also given in preparation for this time. We may have zero money for R.'s adoption, but our God owns all of the earth's riches! I don't have any idea how He will provide all that is needed, but I know that He will! And it will be just one more story that we will be able to share with R. one day about the faithfulness of our God in bringing her home to us.

God also reminded me that I know nothing about David's client's heart and life and that I may not judge her. I must bless her! So, would you bless her today, as well? Would you say prayers of blessing and love over her life? May she know the love of God on this day!

Dear friends, thank you so much for your kind words and especially for your prayers yesterday. I know without a doubt that God used them to give me a new perspective today. We'd still appreciate your prayers as David needs to finish resolving some things today. But, however it turns out, we know that our God is in control. He is good and He takes care of all of our tomorrows!

weary

2012-01-12T18:36:00.002-07:00

Dear ones, I am so very weary. Would you please pray for our family? The news we received from India was not bad, but it wasn't exactly what we had hoped for either. It seems that everyone is correct when they say that adoption from India is extremely difficult and a very loooooong process. I was looking at photos of our little girl when she was about 8 and feel so sad that we have already missed so many years of her life. I don't want to miss another day!!!

I know that the evil one is hard at work at the moment. David is a carpenter and usually his customers are very happy with his work. But, a client would like him to re-do all of the tile and cabinets that he just put in. David has offered to fix anything that she does not like, but she is insisting that he re-do it all. This would cost us over $10,000 (which is all of what we have for R.'s adoption). Please, please pray! I actually wrote David's client an email (I've never done anything like this before), asking her to reconsider. I even attached R.'s photo.

Lily came downstairs, as I was writing the email, and told me that I was brave, like the women who wrote letters and protested for women's suffrage. Grace brought me chocolate. Adam gave me a loooong hug and Jadon said that we could sell his bed and that he didn't need any birthday presents so that we'd have money for R. I have to say that made my day a little bit brighter. Oh, how I love my sweet children!

I do also have a health concern that I'm sure is probably nothing, but I'd so appreciate prayers regarding my state of mind. Satan will sure use everything to get us down, won't he? With everything that is happening at the moment, I'm even more convinced that R. truly needs to be here with us. Otherwise, the evil one would leave us alone!

Please know that despite the trials and weariness, I do not question our Father's goodness. He is so kind, generous, compassionate and faithful. I'm so grateful to be His daughter! How does anyone endure the trials of this world without Him?

today's the day

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

tonight's the night

something like that

Anyway...

sometime in the next 24 hours,

our agency representative is supposed to be meeting with someone from our little girl's home state. We're praying that some (really good) decisions are made at this meeting.

Would you pray with us?

Your dogs are cute. Stay close by your mom.

2012-01-10T11:33:00.000-07:00

"What did God say to you, Gracie?" I asked my daughter this past week.

"He said, 'Your dogs are cute. Stay close by your mom.'"

I admit, my first reaction to Grace, was aaawww, isn't that sweet? How precious that she wants to be with me. But then I realized, it's not just that Grace wants to be with me...Grace knows that she must be with me. She knows that her life is knit with mine and that David and I are the ones who will model God's love to her. This is not just little-girl sweetness. It truly is the word of the Lord to Grace. It is God's heart being revealed to her heart and she is ready to obey.
She will stay close to me.
In fact, she often makes it her main purpose in life to stay close to me!

Grace often hears the Lord saying things like...

"Be with you mom. Give her hugs and give her a kiss. Don't argue. Just be with her."
or
"Be with your mom and be loving and show love."

It is beautiful and wonderful that Grace hears the Lord in this way and that she is able to obey. But what about the children who do not have a mom (or a dad) to stay close to? What about the children who cannot "just be with her"?

My heart breaks for these children, and I know that the Lord's heart is certainly even more saddened. He wants to whisper in their ear, "Stay close by your mom/dad," but there is no mom/dad to stay close to.

As we wait for news from Ind*a this week, I ask for your prayers. Would you entreat our precious Lord to make a way, to accelerate the adoption of both R. and V. (our closest friends' little girl)?

Oh how I long to ask my precious R., "What did God say to you, my daughter?" and have her respond, "Stay close by your mom/dad."

Soon, Lord Jesus. Let it be soon.

The God made world wiTh heart

2012-01-09T16:13:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest privileges that I have experienced in my role as a parent, is to teach my children (along with David) what it means to love and worship the Lord. Gracie loves to dance and sing and praise the Lord, but this past week, we decided that she is also ready to take steps to grow in her own personal time with the Lord. So, on Saturday Grace and I went out on a date so we could talk privately.

First, we stopped at the office supply store to pick out a special journal.

Of course, anyone who knows Grace realizes that we couldn't leave the store without one extra little item.

After we bought the journal (and the gum!), we spent a little time talking about some of things that Grace could do during her prayer times (sing praise songs, read a Bible story, draw and journal about the story, and sit quietly and listen). Then we went home and decorated Grace's journal. She was so excited and showed it to everyone in the family!

Sweet girl. Her enthusiasm is bubbling over and I know the Lord takes great pleasure in their special time together. He is speaking to her heart, and it is beautiful to see.

Dear Jesus, continue to spark in Grace an enthusiasm and love for You! May her heart be knit together with Yours during these special times of prayer. May she seek You all of the days of her life.

90% off

2012-01-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

I hit Target at just the right moment.

They were marking their Christmas stuff down to 90% off.

Seriously.

90% off.

I bought a few things for next year.

I bought some candy for Valentines day.

(Don't tell my kids. They'll never notice.)

And I bought some cookies for dessert.

50 cents for a fun time and suprisingly good taste!

Some enjoyed eating them.

And others enjoyed taking a looooong time decorating.

The only problem was that there were 8 in the box, and only 7 of us to eat them.

Come home to us soon, sweet R.!

We need you!

cheesy

2012-01-07T08:20:00.001-07:00

One super-fun thing about living in the Rocky Mountain Region is Beau Jo's Pizza. And thanks to Aunt Angela's generous Christmas gift (a gift card for Beau Jo's), we were able to thoroughly enjoy a special pizza night on the last day of our break.

aaahhh..the anticipation!

oh my!

It was as good as it looks!

Thank you, Angela, for a fun and delicious evening. We wish that you could have been here to enjoy it with us.

consider

2012-01-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these...Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow...
Matthew 6:28-29, 34

Over the past few weeks, some thoughts and decisions regarding R.'s adoption have been weighing heavily on my mind. There are some changes that we could pursue that would potentially speed things up, but, they could also slow things down! We have been reluctant to make the possible changes, because there are things happening in Ind*a this week and next (especially on January 11th) that could finally result in some progress being made. So, we don't want to mess that up by making changes that could confuse matters!

This morning, however, circumstances seemed to be culminating to a point where perhaps we would need to make those changes. I asked the Lord for very clear direction. It was my prayer day, but the time was a little shorter than I prefer, so when I heard him tell me that I was supposed to go to the Christian bookstore first, I was a bit confused. But I went, and asked the Lord to lead me to whatever He wanted me to read. I bought a book that I've been wanting for awhile, but really wasn't confident that there would be anything in the book related to this particular circumstance.

So, I headed off to Panera (thank you, God, for Panera...I LOVE praying and studying there), with my new book, Bible, journal and devotional. I ususally read my devotional first thing in the morning, but I hadn't read it yet today and also hadn't read it yesterday. When I opened it up, I knew that God was answering my prayer for clear direction.

You must be renewed, remade. Christ, Christ, Christ. Everything must rest on Me....Be not afraid, I will help you...Take heart, God loves, God helps, God fights, God wins. You shall see. You shall know. The way wll open. All My Love has ever planned, all My Love has ever thought, you shall see each day unfold. Only be taught. Just be a child. A child never questions plans. It accepts gladly.
God Calling, January 3

All is well. Wonderful things are happening. Do not limit God at all. He cares and provides. Uproot self--the channel-blocker. Do not plan ahead, the way will unfold step by step. Leave tomorrow's burden. Christ is the great Burden-bearer. You cannot bear His load and He only expects you to carry a little day-share.
God Calling, January 4

Isn't our God wonderful?! He's just so incredibly kind. I asked for clear direction and He definitely gave it! Don't worry about tomorrow...rest in Him!

But, it doesn't stop there. The devotional lead me to study and pray through Matthew 6, of which I referenced a portion above. After awhile, I decided to read a bit of the book that I bought. I read a couple of pages, but I kept going back to the Matthew passage, so I stopped reading and prayed some more.

I had to go home at that point to give David the van. I prayed for a little bit longer at home and then read just a few more pages of the book. And which passage of scripture do you think was quoted in its entirety? Yes! It was the Matthew 6 passage!

Oh Father, thank you for your clear direction! I WILL rest in You. I WILL wait as you unfold the way step by step. I WILL consider the lilies and not be anxious. There have been times in this adoption process when You have asked us to be very proactive for R., and I'm sure that there will be more of those times. But, for now, our battle is to wait, and to rest and to trust. Jesus, Jesus, Jesus...thank you that You are working on R.'s behalf right now...and thank you that we can know that the battle is Yours and is already won!

Thank you!

2012-01-03T14:52:00.003-07:00

Thank you so much to all who prayed and/or contributed to Lucy's grant fund! The process to adopt from her region actually requires three trips, so her new family expects that she will be home by February. Please keep them in your prayers. I am taking Lucy's chip-in off my sidebar, but you can donate to Reece's Rainbow at any time! There are so many beautiful children in need of grants and especially in need of families! Bless you for loving these wonderful children!

music monday

2012-01-02T09:51:00.002-07:00

Here's a brief portion of Adam's violin recital. I'm so proud of Adam. He never complains about practicing, even when he's tired or has other things that he'd like to do. It was so much fun to hear him play with the pianist at the recital. I think that he did a great job!

a beautiful start to 2012

2012-01-01T16:08:00.002-07:00

Dear friends,

today I was reminded of something beautiful.

today I was reminded,

it's not about me

Now this may be blaringly obvious to the rest of you, but I had to be reminded of this fact through a wonderful sermon at Ellerslie.

it's not about me

my life

my family

my ministry

my teaching

my love for orphans..

(notice all of the my's here)

all of it

all of it

is intended for His glory.

And what an amazing privilege that is!

To partner with the King of Glory,

the Savior of the World,

the Compassionate One,

the All-Consuming Fire,

the Everlasting One,

and to bring Him glory

is truly the best thing that I could ever imagine doing with my (His) life.

My prayer for 2012 is this:

Jesus, please remind me every single day, that I must decrease, and You must increase. May I forget myself and get lost in You.

May Your glory cover the earth!

For You are more than worthy, dear Lord.

You are more than worthy!

friends, fun and free food

2011-12-31T10:11:00.001-07:00

Honestly, we have had the best couple of weeks. I had one day of exhaustion in the middle of this week, so sweet hubby told me to go out with Meredith, and that definitely revived me. :)

Yesterday was so much fun. I had a chance to meet up with my friend, Mary. She is absolutely wonderful. I always go away from getting together with her completely encouraged in the Lord. She is such a blessing!

While Mary and I were having coffee, the kids played with their cousins. Around noon, we all headed over to the cousin's house for sweet Abie's birthday party. Isn't she precious?!

The girls had such a good time.

Grace is looking for every opportunity to wear her Christmas dress, and a tea party was just the occasion.

After the party, we went to Zoo Lights. My parents bought us tickets for Christmas (thank you, thank you, thank you!), and it's the first time that we've done this. What fun!

It was really beautiful.

There weren't tons of animals out, but these penguins were sure cute.

And the sealife in Tropical Discovery amazed us all.

I kept thinking about our sweet R. all evening...wondering if she'd be rushing ahead with the big kids, or tentative and close to me (like Grace) while around all of those animals. My guess is the latter, and that's fine with me. I've already missed out on so many years, I'm going to want her to stay close to me all the time!

So silly...

After the zoo, we went to Chipotles because some friends gave us bogo gift cards for Christmas. The cash register at Chipotles was having problems, so the manager gave us all of our burritos for free. So that made our entire day totally free and a complete gift! We were so grateful!

Thank you, Jesus (and precious friends and family), for such a wonderful day!

Come home soon, sweet R.!

2011-12-29T09:24:00.003-07:00

We're all waiting for you.

Wordless Wednesday (my girls...so far)

2011-12-28T07:53:00.001-07:00

Rejoice!

2011-12-25T16:54:00.001-07:00

Last night, on the eve of the anniversary of the birth of our Lord Jesus, our pastor reminded us that we are to be a people of rejoicing!

What are we, as the people of God, waiting for?! We have every reason to rejoice now, for the Son of God has come to earth to live among us.

So rejoice with us! Our Savior is born! He is Emmanuel...God with us!

Merry, Merry, Joyful Christmas!!

a smattering of pre-Christmas happenings

2011-12-24T12:20:00.002-07:00

It's been such a wondrful week with the children home from school. I wish that we had a two week break every month! I LOVE just hanging out with my kids!

We started out the week by going to a Christmas play called A Child's Christmas in Wales. It was wonderful and so much fun! Thanks, Grandma, for getting the tickets for us!

On Sunday afternoon, Adam had a violin concert. I hope to get a video up of that soon!

After the concert, we went out for dinner and to look at Christmas lights, but I was enjoying it so much that I forgot to take pictures.

The boys went to a friend's house one day and we had a super-fun girl's day. We went to the mall to pet the puppies (an all time favorite activity of ours), ate lunch at Chick-fil-a, and came home to watch Little Women.

My girls are so silly!

We got some great snow on Thursday.

Oh my Lil'! You always make me laugh.

Maple loves to play in the snow.

Rosie...

not so much.

Yana painted some Christmas gifts.

And Lily helped me bake.

We bought a great game called Wits and Wagers Family. It's wonderful because it's enjoyable for almost any age and so easy to learn.

We're looking forward to our church Christmas celebration tonight and family time tomorrow. Monday will be spent at Oma and Opa's house.

Merry Christmas, dear friends!

Christ is born!

Let us glorify Him!

in memory...

2011-12-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

of a man whose earthly life ended two years ago today, but whose legacy of love is still making a difference for hurting children in this world.

connections...

2011-12-20T14:26:00.001-07:00

Our precious Father cares about every little detail of our lives. He loves to orchestrate connections between people and to intertwine their life stories with one another. In fact, I think that He takes particular pleasure in creating relationships through unique circumstances that only He could bring about!

Throughout each of our adoption journeys, God has placed special people in our path at just the right time. We have been amazed by the way that our wonderful Father knows exactly what we need, and often takes care of that need through someone whom we didn't even know just a few days (or even hours or minutes) earlier.

In our adoption of R., our dear Father is out-doing Himself. He is bringing together people and places in absolutely extraordinary ways. I am astounded by the many, many connections that could only come about by His intervention.

I wish that I could share each part of every single one of these connections with you. The numerous stories would leave you in awe of the One who finds great pleasure in weaving together every aspect of our lives to create a beautiful tapestry of love. Unfortunately, the stories will have to wait until after R. is home with us. But, for now, let me introduce you to a new friend: Her name is Kristen.

A couple of weeks ago, I was browsing through the Ordinary Hero blog, looking into fundraising options for a friend, when I clicked on one blog on the sidebar. I was in a bit of a time crunch, so I literally have no idea why I clicked on that blog. But friends, God knows and He cares...He cares about every detail of our lives.

You see, Kristen is adopting from Ind*a (and Congo!). If that were the only thing that we had in common, I'd still have been excited, as there really aren't that many people adopting from Ind*a. But, there is so much more! (Oh, how I wish that I could share the whole story, so you could see how much our God cares about the details of our lives!) Just know that the story is a good one, and you will hear it one day.

But in the meantime, hop on over to Kristen's blog, pray for the two precious sweethearts who are waiting for her on the other side of the world, and marvel with me in the way that our dear Father connects us with one another at exactly the moment that we need it.

Oh my goodness, isn't our Father wonderful?!

In lieu of actually sending out a Christmas card this year...

2011-12-17T19:02:00.001-07:00

I thought that I'd at least try to take a photo of all of our little lovies together.

Oh, how I love these five precious gifts from God!

Praying that they'll be one more in the bunch next year!

It's a party!

2011-12-16T17:55:00.001-07:00

We had such a fun time at the school Christmas party!

Our dear friends, M. and C., volunteered to do face painting and the kids all loved it!

Here they all are...lining up for a turn.

Didn't they do an incredible job?!

besties...

These two could be in a traveling comedy show!

The adults had a good time, as well.

We love you, Aunt Joyce!

We played a rousing game of Simon Says (and I'm not kidding when I say "rousing." You have to be on your toes to win with this crew!)

The kids sang a beautiful song for the teachers...super sweet!

They also created some wonderful food art with Miss M. Aren't these amazing?!

During the party, the girls in my class had a bake sale for precious Lucy (who will soon be Heidi!).

They raised over $100 for this beautiful girl.

And in other news, guess what came in the mail yesterday!

one step closer...

there's nothing like it

2011-12-14T16:53:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like

a good morning hug from one of my boys.

There is nothing like

seeing my boys learn what it means to be a man of God,
or watching them learn to praise their Creator,
or hearing them give words of encouragement to their sisters,
or seeing them (of their own initiative) opening a door for a lady who is walking behind them.

There is absolutely nothing like

hearing, "I love you. You're the best mom in the whole world," from one of my sons.

There is just nothing like

being a mom to these precious boys.

Lord, I'd love to have another son!

But, if not, please give me lots and lots and lots of grandsons.

'cuz hanging out with amazing boys...

well,

there's just nothing like it!

pulling down strongholds

2011-12-12T16:00:00.000-07:00

"Our tools are strong in pulling down strongholds."
(Eric Ludy)

For a number of months now, I have had a firm sense that God wants to break through strongholds in Ind*a, and in particular, in the state where R. lives. He wants to set children free! He wants to bring them under the protection of loving families.

Over the past couple of weeks, however, I have allowed distraction to set in. I have not been interceding in faith. I have not been believing God for all that He would desire in this situation.

Our precious Jesus told us how to pray:

Your Kingdom come,

Your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven.

Our God wants to bring heaven down to earth.

Did you know that there are no orphans in heaven?!

Did you know that all children (all people) are free in heaven?!

The weapons of our warfare are strong, my friends.

They pull down strongholds.

They set the captives free.

Would you join me in praying down this stronghold in Ind*a?

Would you join me in joining with God to set these children free?

He is able.

He is willing.

May I never forget that!

blessed

2011-12-09T21:28:00.001-07:00

I truly am blessed.

Thank you, David, for 16 beautiful years.

Being married to you has exceeded all of my dreams.

You are a gift to me every single day.

And thank you for a lovely evening.

It was such a fun and special surprise.

I love spending time with you.

Happy Anniversary, sweetheart.

I love you with all of my heart!

Good news!

2011-12-08T16:12:00.001-07:00

That paperwork mountain has been thrown into the sea! Hooray! Read all about it here, where you'll also be able to see a beautiful picture of Lucy's new brothers and their precious mama.

Our God is so good!!

Lucy update...please pray!

2011-12-06T16:12:00.001-07:00

Sweet Lucy, your family is working so hard to get you home. With international adoption, being as it is, however, they have run into a problem. They are in Ukraine, but they haven't had a chance to meet you yet. They've encountered a paperwok glitch.

But don't worry, Lucy-girl, you have a generous Father in heaven and He can move mountains! And we are all praying that this mountain would be thrown into the sea!

Friends, would you also pray for Lucy? Would you pray peace over her family and for a new appointment date so that they can get Lucy's file and take her home?! Thanks so much for your love for this precious little girl.

the greatest honor...

2011-12-04T21:43:00.001-07:00

Corrie (Ten Boom) credits her father's example in inspiring her to help the Jews of Holland. She tells of an incident in which she asked a pastor who was visiting their home to help shield a mother and newborn infant. The pastor replied, "No definitely not. We could lose our lives for that Jewish child."

Corrie went on to say, "Unseen by either of us, Father had appeared in the doorway. 'Give the child to me, Corrie,' he said. Father held the baby close, his white beard brushing its cheek, looking into the little face with eyes as blue and innocent as the baby's. 'You say we could lose our lives for this child. I would consider that the greatest honor that could come to my family.'"

bestie snow day

2011-12-03T09:56:00.001-07:00

It doesn't get much better than a foot of snow and a day to play with your best friend.

Addie and Grace have been friends for almost as long as Grace has been a part of our family. They have such fun with one another and they get along wonderfully. It's a joy to see them together.

We love you so much, sweet Addie. Thanks for being such a wonderful friend for Grace!

basket of blessings giveaway

2011-12-02T14:20:00.001-07:00

If you haven't visted Naomi's blog, you're missing out on an opportunity to get to know a precious woman of God. Naomi loves the Lord and has such a gentle and beautiful spirit. When I read her blog, I experience such peace and encouragement.

Naomi is hosting a wonderful fundraiser, that captures so much of her heart. It is a "basket of blessings" giveaway. The proceeds will help she and her husband, Jeff, travel to Uganda to hopefully meet their new son(s) and/or daughter(s).

Here are a couple of the beautiful items from Naomi's giveaway.

Naomi is also hosting a number of other fundraisers. So, if you have the opportunity, please visit her blog to enter the giveaway and also to enjoy Naomi's beautiful writing and tender heart.

my train prayer

2011-11-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

There is a train that runs through our town.
It's difficult not to be bothered by this train, because you have to wait for it.
a.lot.

A couple of weeks ago, however, a friend from our church suggested that the train be seen as symbolic of the Church...the beautiful Bride that Jesus will be coming back for. So, now, when we wait for the train, our perspective has changed. We are excited for the opportunity to wait for the train. When we wait for the train, we pray for the Church...we pray that God's Spirit would move through this land.

Now, I know that Peter, Paul and Mary were not a Christian band, but I keep thinking of this song. I just love the line about love between our brothers and our sisters (all over this land), because, when true love between the brethren is manifest on the earth, His Church will be seen in all its glory.

So, here it is...my train prayer...

And on a slightly different note, I've had some rough days lately, but our God is so very faithful. I shared my struggles with a group of women from my church yesterday, I posted that last post, and I spent a lot of time seeking the face of our precious Lord. I KNOW that people were praying for me, and He has COMPLETELY changed my perspective.

Last night, I was dancing around the kitchen with my kiddos, full of the joy of the Lord. Then, this morning He gave me Psalm 50:12-13:

¹² Restore to me the joy of your salvation
and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
¹³ Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
so that sinners will turn back to you.

He is the only One that truly satisfies. His joy is the only thing that will truly draw people unto Him.
Lord, give me more of Your joy!

From self to God

2011-11-30T16:14:00.001-07:00

The Eternal God is thy refuge. Deuteronomy 33:27

A place to flee to, a sanctuary. An escape from misunderstanding, from yourself. You can get away from others into the quiet of your own being, but from yourself, from the sense of your failure, your weakness, your sins and shortcomings, whither can you flee?

To the Eternal God your refuge. Till in His Immensity you forget your smallness, meannes, limitations.

Till the relief of safety merges into Joy of appreciation of your refuge, and you absorb the Divine, and absorbing gain strength to conquer.

God Calling, November 30

Today, I want to escape from the biggest problem in my life.

Today

I want to escape from

myself.

My love is weak.

My faith is shaky.

I have so very little to offer.

But, You, oh Lord,

You have everything to offer.

My precious Father,

help me to forget myself in You.

Let me rest in the refuge of your arms.

Let me experience the tender mercies of your presence.

And Father,

help me to lay all things at Your feet.

For you are the only One

who is able to bridge the gap

between my lack

and other's need.

You are my sanctuary, Oh God.

I flee to You alone.

Exciting news!

2011-11-29T21:36:00.001-07:00

This little princess is going to have a family of her very own!!!!

I don't know many of the details yet, but I am praising God that Lucy will have a family that (I'm sure) is over-the-moon excited and absolutely smitten with her. Thank you so much for praying for precious Lucy. I will let you know more details as soon as I have more to share.

I'm also praising God for some wonderful news that another family received today...can't wait to be able to share about that, as well! Our God is all about doing the seemingly impossible. He is so good!!!

ohhhh...the humiliation

2011-11-28T19:27:00.001-07:00

mountain getaway

2011-11-27T20:24:00.001-07:00

David and I have been blessed over the past few years, to spend the weekend after Thanksgiving in the mountains. Our anniversary is on December 9th, so we celebrate a little early. We go to David's parent's house for Thanksgiving, and then leave the kids with them for the rest of the weekend (thank you so much for taking care of our precious little ones, Oma and Opa).

This time together truly is a blessing. Every one of the years that we've been able to get away, we have discovered some significant things in the Lord, have made some major decisions and have been refreshed and encouraged in significant ways. A few years back, we read George Muller's book on money and found our thinking completely transformed in this area, four years ago we decided to adopt Grace during our weekend retreat, and this year we spent time praying and thinking about how to raise up godly young men and women who embrace their God-given femininity and masculinity. This is such a beautiful subject that I hope to be able to share more about later.

Of course, in addition to all the time to read, relax, pray and be together, David and I also like to take advantage of the fact that we are in the mountains! We love the breathtaking beauty of God's creation.

David, it has been a privilege and honor to spend these past 16 years with you. You are a man of honor, kindness, love, service and integrity. I love you so very much!

A little silliness is always in order.

There's an amazing Nepali restaurant that we love to eat at. Oh my! It makes me long for India.

Thank you, Father, for times of refreshing and strengthening. What a blessing they are!

trauma, fear and emotional healing

2011-11-22T21:01:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, the kids and I were backing out of the driveway when my youngest son rolled down the car window and shouted, "That's a ten!"

No. He wasn't giving a score for a neighborhood gymnastics event. Rather, he was giving his daddy a rating (1 to 10) of his fear level. You see, David was in the garage, cutting a piece of wood with the circular saw. And even though David, as a carpenter, uses the saw pretty much every day, when Jadon observes his daddy doing something that seems dangerous, it brings up all sorts of fears.

fear

It's a common emotion for many people, but for a child who has experienced trauma, the level of fear can be dibilitating.

Jadon and Grace both had surgeries before we adopted them. I don't know exactly what their hospital experience was like, but I can guess. I can guess because they are both absolutely terrified of doctors and dentists. But, their fear comes out in different ways.

For example, Jadon has been an angel for his surgeries here, but his fear frequently comes out as anger leading up to a doctor's appointment. To be honest, I haven't always handled that anger well, because I didn't know that it was due to fear. Now I know. Now I approach my precious boy a little differently. I give him a lot of space to talk about his feelings, give him special treats (my son definitely experiences love through food), and give him extra grace for his behavior (without, of course, letting him be unkind to other people).

Grace's fear, on the other hand, comes out in ways that are more obvious. A couple of months ago Grace needed some shots. My sweet girl sobbed for an hour in the doctor's office and as I held her still on the table, she stared blankly up at the ceiling and screamed in an absolutely other-wordly sort of way. I've never seen or heard anything like it and I vowed that she would never have an experience like that again.

So when I spoke with her dentist yesterday about ways to help her feel safe in the dentist's office, and he informed me that she just needed to go back on her own or she would never be emotionally secure, I decided that it was time for a new dentist. Don't get me wrong, this dentist is not a uncaring man...not at all. He just doesn't understand the effects of trauma on my little girl.

Our precious Father is the only One who can completely heal our children from their fears, but He has also entrusted David and I to be their protectors and advocates on this earth. In the past, I have not understood that calling as fully as I do now. I entrusted my children's emotional health to the medical experts, rather than to my mama's heart.

Yes, children need shots and fillings and even surgeries. But, more importantly, they need to feel secure and safe in their parent's love and protection. As much as I am able, I want to give my children that security by being there for them and advocating for them for as long as they need me. And one day (when she is ready), I expect that my little Grace will walk into a dentist's office and ask me to stay in the waiting area so that she can get her teeth cleaned all by herself.

lovely little one

2011-11-21T18:25:00.001-07:00

Can you believe this new picture of sweet Lucy?!

Oh my goodness, I just want to give her a squeeze!

Thank you to those who have already participated in Lucy's grant fund! We appreciate it so much. Please keep praying for a family for this precious girl.

I've sent out most of the bracelets. I just have two left. I think that they'd make perfect Christmas gifts for teenage daughters or neices.

If you'd like BOTH of these bracelets, just hop on over to my sidebar and donate $10 or more to Lucy's grant fund. Then leave me a comment with your email address so I can send you the bracelets.

Thank you so much for helping this lovely little one.

a time to worship

2011-11-20T21:37:00.001-07:00

We've been so blessed over the past few years that Lily and Grace have been able to be a part of the worship dance group in our town. It is a joy to see them learn to worship the Lord through music and dance.

This year, we were tripley blessed, as Yana decided that she would like to take classes, as well. All of the girls who danced were absolutely beautiful, and, of course, we were particularly partial to our three girls!

Thanks to the cousins (and Aunt Susie and Grammy) for coming to the recital. It was wonderful to have you there!

made for relationship

2011-11-18T15:45:00.001-07:00

To understand why God puts such an emphasis on protection and care for the widow and the orphan we need to understand that his original plan was for his creation to be in loving, healthy relationships. When he says it is not good for Adam to be alone, he is showing his heart for family, friendship, and partnership. When he sees a widow or an orphan he is still saying it is not good for you to be alone, I will send someone to love and care for you.

The Strength of the King, p. 53

This little girl was made for relationship.

Her heart is absolutely bursting with love.

On Wednesday, I was having a difficult day.

I was sitting on the floor, praying quietly, while the rest of the family was having a time of praise.

My sweet, sensitive Grace noticed my pain and brought me a blanket to lay across my lap.

Then she brought me a pillow to lean on.

After that, she handed me a box of kleenex and a little trash can.

Precious Grace stood with her hand on my shoulder for the next 15 minutes, whispering prayers, and then she asked her daddy if the whole family could pray for me.

Grace was able to minister to my heart because she is all about relationships...she knows how to love. To think of Grace alone in an orphange is enough to absolutely tear my heart in two. She was never meant to be alone.

Thank you, Father, for allowing this precious girl to be our daughter. Thank you for allowing us to love and care for Grace.

And thank you for allowing Grace to show such love to me,

because this little one was made for relationship...

and so was I.

wordless wednesday

2011-11-16T12:00:00.000-07:00

(oh my goodness gracious, I just LOVE this cutie-boy)

I know the end of the story...

2011-11-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

I'll come out from the wilderness,

and I'll be leaning on my Beloved...

Last week was tough.

For days in a row, I lost sight of my Beloved.

My faith was weak, and I didn't know how much more waiting I could take.

I told my dear, patient Father that He had to do something...I didn't want to wait anymore...I didn't want to travel this hard road...I didn't want to wonder...I wanted to know that R. would be home soon...I needed to know.

On Saturday night I had a dream.

In the dream there were wolves and there was fear.

But there was One who stood before the wolves,

and with a gentle touch,

pushed them away.

Just a gentle touch

and they were gone.

Then there were sentries...

angels standing guard.

The wolves would not return.

I woke up and knew that the Lord was near.

Then, at church, our pastor spoke about peace...

giving all of our anxiety to our Lord.

He spoke about Jesus, who slept in the boat, while there was a fierce storm outside.

When the disciples woke Him, He spoke such simple, gentle words...

Peace. Be still.

There was no striving.

There was no anxiety.

He was near

and all anxiety,

all fear,

all tumult

disappeared.

So, now I remember...

I know the end of the story.

And at the end of the story, Jesus is right beside me,

and that is enough.

Peace. Be still.

Peace.

Be still.

love from Lily to Lucy

2011-11-14T07:31:00.001-07:00

Hi! This is Lily. As you probably know, I'm adopted from China. I'm in my mom's class, and we made bracelets for Lucy, because we really want Lucy to have a loving family, so maybe you could consider buying one of these bracelets, or donating money for her on our sidebar. I know what it's like to have loving people and family around me, and I think my family is really good. If you lived in an orphanage and had a loving nanny, it still wouldn't be like family, because that nanny won't always be with you, but family is forever. Also, Jesus said that every child is important and he cares about Lucy a ton. Lucy is a beautiful little girl and we love her lots.

We'd love to send you a bracelet! If you'd like one, just hop over to my sidebar and donate $10 or more towards Lucy's grant fund. Then, leave me a comment, letting me know which bracelet you'd like to have. Also, if I don't have your address, make sure you leave your email address in the comments.

Thanks so much for helping sweet Lucy to find her family.

bracelet #2 (lovingly created by Tatianna)

clear and blue

bracelet #3 (lovingly created by Lily)

an asian theme
No longer available.
Thank you, Holly!

bracelet #4 (lovingly created by Bethany)

red and blue
No longer available.
Thank you, Heidi.

bracelet #6 (lovingly created by Mary)

clear with pink ribbons

bracelet #8 (lovingly created by Lily)

asian inspired 2

bracelet #9 (lovingly created by Teresa)

turquoise and clear

this bracelet is sized a little bit larger than average

No longer available.

Thank you, Tina.

bracelet #12 (lovingly created by Sarah)

turquoise and clear 2

No longer available.

Thank you, Tina!

Happy birthday, dear friend.

2011-11-12T16:50:00.001-07:00

A friend should be one in whose understanding and virtue we can equally confide, and whose opinion we can value at once for its justness and its sincerity.
Robert Hall

I really don't know how to express the gratitude I feel to the Lord for giving me such a friend as Meredith. Honestly, if you knew her, you'd be so jealous that I get to see her almost every day. Meredith is amazing, generous, enthusiastic, funny, caring and she loves the Lord with all that she is. She is simply the best friend that I could have ever imagined.

Happy Birthday, dear friend. I love you with all my heart!

I know what it feels like...

2011-11-11T13:06:00.001-07:00

If you missed my last post, click here before reading this post.

Hi. I'm Yana. I used to live in an orphanage in Ukraine, and I know what it feels like to not have a family. We're making these bracelets so that Lucy can get a family soon. Making bracelets is only a small step for Lucy's adoption. We just need to pray for her because God wants someone to be her family. I really hope that you can be part of her fundraising. We would also appreciate prayers too. It would be a great blessing for her.

(Yana is the pig-tailed cutie in the middle right of this photo. This was her class in Ukraine.)

I'm re-posting the bracelets that are still available.

Thank you so much for your encouragement and support for Lucy and also for my classroom of girls!

bracelet #2 (lovingly created by Tatianna)

clear and blue (the clear beads look pink, due to the red background)

bracelet #3 (lovingly created by Lily)

an asian theme

bracelet #4 (lovingly created by Bethany)

red and blue

bracelet #6 (lovingly created by Mary)

clear with pink ribbons

bracelet #8 (lovingly created by Lily)

asian inspired 2

bracelet #9 (lovingly created by Teresa)

turquoise and clear

this picture doesn't do this bracelet justice...the beads are really gorgeous

this bracelet is sized a little bit larger than the average adult size

bracelet #12 (lovingly created by Sarah)

turquoise and clear 2

lotsa love for lucy

2011-11-09T19:08:00.001-07:00

The girls in my class have been brainstorming ideas to raise money for sweet Lucy's grant fund. They made a donation box where all of the students at the school can donate their change, they are planning on having a bake sale and they also made these beautiful bracelets.

Five of the nine girls in my class were adopted internationally and they all are learning to have a heart for others. Each bracelet was lovingly created by one of these girls.

All of the bracelets are strung on sturdy jewelery wire and have silver clasps. We wanted each of the bracelets to have one bead that stood for something special, so we shamelessly stole Tina's idea of a bird (hope you don't mind, Tina!). When the recipients wear these bracelets, we want them to remember to pray that Lucy will fly away home soon.

So, how do you become a recipient of one of these beautiful bracelets?

Just head over to my sidebar, donate $10 or more, and I'd be happy to send you one. Leave a comment letting me know which bracelet you would like to have (if I don't already have your address, please leave your email address, as well). Thank you so much for your kindness towards Lucy and also towards the girls in my class! Your donations will greatly encourage them.

bracelet #1 (lovingly created by Yana)

green and silver
No longer available.
Thank you, Tina!

bracelet #2 (lovingly created by Tatianna)

clear and blue (the clear beads look pink, due to the red background)

bracelet #3 (lovingly created by Lily)

an asian theme

bracelet #4 (lovingly created by Bethany)

red and blue

bracelet #5 (lovingly created by Lily)

this bracelet is sized for a child and would make a great stocking stuffer for your little panda lover
No longer available.
Thank you, Tina!

bracelet #6 (lovingly created by Mary)

clear with pink ribbons

bracelet #7 (lovingly created by A.J.)

red and blue 2, this bracelet is sized a little bit larger than the average adult size

No longer Available.

Thank you Chandra!

bracelet #8 (lovingly created by Lily)

asian inspired 2

bracelet #9 (lovingly created by Teresa)

turquoise and clear

this picture doesn't do this bracelet justice...the beads are really gorgeous

this bracelet is sized a little bit larger than the average adult size

bracelet #10 (lovingly created by Alyssa)

multi-colored and silver

No longer available.

Thank you, Jill!

bracelet #11 (lovingly created by April)

multicolored, silver and black

this bracelet is sized a little bit larger than the average adult size

No longer available.

Thank you, Jill!

bracelet #12 (lovingly created by Sarah)

turquoise and clear 2

bracelet #13 (lovingly created by Grace)

red and blue 3

No longer available.

Thank you Phyllis!

Thank you so much!!

And remember, if you donate $35 or more, you will receive a wonderful ornament from Reece's Rainbow, with Lucy's picture on it.

(Please feel free to post this fundraiser on your blog or facebook page. We so appreciate your support).

get ready...

2011-11-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

for something fun

coming up soon

hot chocolate with grace

2011-11-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

marshmallow...yes

hot chocolate...not so much

that's my girl

Did you know?

2011-11-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

Did you know that when you give a gift of over $35 towards the grant fund for this little angel...

you'll receive a Christmas ornament with Lucy's beautiful photo on it.

Wouldn't that make a wonderful Christmas gift for someone you love?

I'm at that stage in life...

2011-11-05T10:45:00.000-06:00

where my childen let me know about all the good music.

This is Yana's current favorite, and it's quickly becoming mine, as well.

Let's make this a Lucy day!

2011-11-03T21:15:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, in the midst of celebrating our sweet Grace, I couldn't help but think of Lucy.

Would anyone hold Lucy on this day?

Would anyone whisper that they love her?

Would anyone thank God that they were blessed to know this special girl?

Lucy is almost three years old, which is the same age as Grace was when we first saw her sweet photograph.

Could Lucy's family also find her this year?

Lucy lives in a children's home in Ukraine. It is a good place, but it is not the same as a home of her own, with a family who loves her. Plus, if her family does not find her sometime in the next couple of years, sweet Lucy will probably be moved to an institution. Children with Down's Syndrome rarely survive the institution.

Please consider giving towards Lucy's grant fund (on my sidebar).

And please pray that this precious girl's family finds her soon.

Let's make this a Lucy day!

It's a Grace day!

2011-11-02T20:10:00.000-06:00

Three years ago today, you walked into our hearts, and we have never been the same.

We are blessed by your presence each day.

Your smile and your laugh are contagious.

(And your dimples are soooo cute!)

We love to watch you soar, sweet girl!

You are so loving and gentle. Your heart is full of compassion and grace. This is a gift to all who know you!

We thank God for three beautiful years with you, Grace.

Happy Adoption Day, our precious girl.

We love you.

Introducing...

2011-11-01T07:51:00.000-06:00

Beautiful Miss Lucy

Oh my goodness!

Don't you just want to pick her up and hold her tight (and wipe away those little tears)?!

Sweet baby!

This Christmas season, my classroom of girls is advocating for precious Lucy.

We'd love to raise a sizeable amount of money for her grant fund.

We'd love for this little girl to find a family!

I'll be posting more about Lucy in the next few days.

In the meantime, if you'd like to donate towards her grant fund, go to my sidebar. And please pray for precious little Lucy.

single

2011-10-30T14:44:00.000-06:00

My Lil is a fiesty little thing. She's bold, fiery and full of love.

When Lily was about 7 or 8, she read a book about Mother Theresa and decided that she would like to be a nun.

Since that time, she's come to the conclusion that she'd rather be a nurse in Inda. But, she is adamant that even though she may not be a nun, she is not going to get married.

At dinner last night, we were talking about Lily's desire to remain single. Her daddy commented that she had the personality to be single for the Lord.

"What do you mean, Dad?"

"Well...you're a go-getter, Lily."

Lily, completely straight-faced, agreed, "Yeah, I don't need a man to slow me down. A man would just get in my way."

(uhhhh...yep, that's my Lil)

In Lily's defense, she later explained that what she really meant was that a husband would distract her from all of the people in India who were in need of nursing help.

I wouldn't be surprised if Lily were called to be single for the Lord, but one thing's for sure...if she does get married, she's gonna need a pretty strong man!

wrestling

2011-10-28T18:34:00.000-06:00

For the fifth time in ten years, David and I are absolutely flabbergasted. We are overwhelmed by how God is providing for our daughter's adoption...five adoptions in ten years, with each one costing at least half of our yearly income. Impossible by all logical standards, but very simple by the standards of God's Kingdom. He is just so lavishly generous!

This is amazing and I am very grateful, but I've also been wrestling...wrestling with questions about wealth, poverty, giving, saving, hoarding and love, because even though we have more than enough, there are so many who do not. Precious people, whom God has created, are starving, lonely, cold and lost in this world. I know without a doubt that it's not because God doesn't care. So, why is it?

Randy Alcorn, in his book, The Treasure Principle, reminds us that, "Abundance isn't God's provision for me to live in luxury. It's His provision for me to help others live." Alcorn also says, "Suppose God wanted to fulfill His plan of world evangelization and help an unprecedented number of suffering people. What gift would you expect Him to distribute widely? Perhaps the gift of giving? And what might you expect Him to provide for those to whom He's given that gift? Perhaps unprecedented wealth to meet all those needs and further His kingdom? Look around. Isn't that exactly what God has done? The question is, what are we doing with the wealth He's entrusted to us to reach the lost and help the suffering?"

I wrestle with this, because I want to know what it means practically in my life.

For example, a freind of ours recently commented that it is loving to have some money saved, so as not to be a burden on others. This friend is a godly, frugal man. He's not advocating hoarding by any means, but is simply recommending having a modest savings. There is so much wisdom in this.

On the other hand, I was struck a while back by a blog post that mentioned Dave Ramsey's policy of having three months salary set aside for emergencies. The author of the post asked the question...aren't starving childen in the world an emergency? They may not be my children, but they are somebody's children and furthermore, they are children of the Living God. Isn't their lack of food an emergency? Shouldn't I be willing to spend every dollar I have for the sake of this emergency?

Friends, I was pierced. And I truly believe that both of these perspectives can be right and godly, but the question is, what is God asking me to do?

In some ways, however, the question of saving or giving is an easy one, because it deals with what is left over after my needs (and the needs of my family) are already met. An even bigger question that I wrestle with is how to determine what to spend money on.

I have a confession. I love to go out to eat. I like to go by myself to Panera to eat lunch, pray, study God's Word and listen to Him speak. I do this 2-4 times each month and I love it! I also love to take my kids out for breakfast or a young believer out for coffee. I like to go out for dinner with David or Meredith. It is such a pleasure. And I know without a doubt that God loves these relationships!

But, the question is, is going out to eat God's best?

Friends, I don't know.

I also don't know if it makes sense to have life insurance (we do) or to buy new jeans because my old ones are too short (I shrunk them in the wash) or to get a decent haircut. If my children were starving, the length of my jeans (or my hair, for that matter) would be irrelevant to me.

Friends, children are starving. They aren't my children, but they are someone's children. They are certainly God's children.

Our God is so generous. He is lavish. He pours out His blessings (material and spiritual) in great measure. I don't wrestle with these questions because I feel condemned or afraid of His judgment. I wrestle with these questions because I love Him so much and I just want to be like Him. I want to love like He loves. I want to give like He gives. I want to be generous, as He is generous. I also know that there is just so much joy in giving!

Jesus, help me to see the world as you see it. Help me to love as You love. Help me to be generous as You are generous. Give me Your heart, dear Jesus. Give me Your heart.

Precious friends, I would love to hear your thoughts. So many of you have wisdom that is beyond me. You are living out Jesus' teachings in radical ways. Have you wrestled with these questions? What is God saying to you? Thank you, so much! I appreciate your sharing more than you could ever know.

on its way...

2011-10-27T17:30:00.000-06:00

Our apostilled homestudy is on its way to Ind*a!!!

Would you join us in praying that we get good news very soon?!

Sometimes

2011-10-26T18:32:00.000-06:00

you just have to laugh

(yes, that is a tree branch that went through our ceiling!)

and be grateful that your husband is a carpenter!

walking all the way

2011-10-26T07:53:00.000-06:00

You must believe utterly. My Love can bear nothing less. I am so often 'wounded in the house of My friends.' Do you think the spitting and scorn of My enemies, the mocking and reviling hurt me? No!

'They all forsook Him and fled.' 'I know not the man.' These left their scars.

So now, it is not the unbelief of My enemies that hurts, but that My friends, who love and know Me, cannot walk all the way with Me, and doubt My Power to do all that I have said.

God Calling, October 26

Dear Jesus, give me the faith, the strength and the joy of walking all the way with You. You are so completely worthy!

unwanted...?

2011-10-24T19:06:00.000-06:00

I saw this on another blog today....praying that these girls discover God's name for them, which is beloved, wanted, precious and treasured.

Hundreds of Indian Girls Named 'Unwanted' Choose New Names

October 22, 2011: Girls hold certificates stating their new official names during a renaming ceremony in Satara, India.

MUMBAI, India – More than 200 Indian girls whose names mean "unwanted" in Hindi have chosen new names for a fresh start in life.

A central Indian district held a renaming ceremony Saturday that it hopes will give the girls new dignity and help fight widespread gender discrimination that gives India a skewed gender ratio, with far more boys than girls.

The 285 girls -- wearing their best outfits with barrettes, braids and bows in their hair -- lined up to receive certificates with their new names along with small flower bouquets from Satara district officials in Maharashtra state.

In shedding names like "Nakusa" or "Nakushi," which mean "unwanted" in Hindi, some girls chose to name themselves after Bollywood stars such as "Aishwarya" or Hindu goddesses like "Savitri." Some just wanted traditional names with happier meanings, such as "Vaishali," or "prosperous, beautiful and good."

"Now in school, my classmates and friends will be calling me this new name, and that makes me very happy," said a 15-year-old girl who had been named Nakusa by a grandfather disappointed by her birth. She chose the new name "Ashmita," which means "very tough" or "rock hard" in Hindi.

The plight of girls in India came to a focus after this year's census showed the nation's sex ratio had dropped over the past decade from 927 girls for every 1,000 boys under the age of 6 to 914.

Maharashtra state's ratio is well below that, with just 883 girls for every 1,000 boys -- down from 913 a decade ago. In the district of Satara, it is even lower, at 881.

Such ratios are the result of abortions of female fetuses, or just sheer neglect leading to a higher death rate among girls. The problem is so serious in India that hospitals are legally banned from revealing the gender of an unborn fetus in order to prevent sex-selective abortions, though evidence suggests the information gets out.

Part of the reason Indians favor sons is the enormous expense of marrying off girls. Families often go into debt arranging marriages and paying for elaborate dowries. A boy, on the other hand, will one day bring home a bride and dowry. Hindu custom also dictates that only sons can light their parents' funeral pyres.

Over the years, and again now, efforts have been made to fight the discrimination.

"Nakusa is a very negative name as far as female discrimination is concerned," said Satara district health officer Dr. Bhagwan Pawar, who came up with the idea for the renaming ceremony.

Other incentives, announced by federal or state governments every few years, include free meals and free education to encourage people to take care of their girls, and even cash bonuses for families with girls who graduate from high school.

Activists say the name "unwanted," which is widely given to girls across India, gives them the feeling they are worthless and a burden.

"When the child thinks about it, you know, 'My mom, my dad, and all my relatives and society call me unwanted,' she will feel very bad and depressed," said Sudha Kankaria of the organization Save the Girl Child. But giving these girls new names is only the beginning, she said.

"We have to take care of the girls, their education and even financial and social security, or again the cycle is going to repeat," she said.

precious day

2011-10-22T20:56:00.000-06:00

What a blessing!

We didn't have school on Friday, so we were able to get everything done that needed doing, and spend today as a relaxed family day.

I sure needed it!

When I woke up this morning, Jadon was already awake. He spent about an hour very gently running his fingers through my hair.

At one point he said, "Mom, your hair is like a fidget (for those of you who have kids with sensory issues, you know the value of a good fidget!)."

Oh my! We laughed at that one!

We had a leisurely breakfast, did some crafts, had a family quiet time (the kids love when we do this), walked the dogs and had a wonderful leaf fight!

Later in the afternoon, we surprised the kids with a trip to get snacks and see the movie, Dolphin Tale. I would definitely recommend seeing this movie. I cried and cried at the end (for reasons that I'll be able to share one day).

We came home to dinner in the crock pot, family prayer time and then it was off to bed.

What a precious day.

Father, you're so good to us!

the scoop

2011-10-18T21:17:00.000-06:00

So, I know that I have been pretty silent in regards to news with R.'s adoption over the past couple of weeks.

Didn't I say that we'd definitely know something at the beginning of October...?

mmmm...yep, I did.

And, the question is, do we know anything?

Well, yesterday I had a really helpful and informative converstation with our agency representative. I'm understanding what's happening in Ind*a a little bit better, and honestly, just knowing something is encouraging! So, here it is...all that I know!

-Ind*a is not accepting dossiers or matching paperwork for non-special needs adoptions until January 1st.

-It's possible that they will accept paperwork for special needs adoptions.

-R.'s adoption is a special needs adoption!

-We filled out a Parent Registration Form that will be sent directly to CARA (rather than to the state where R. lives), hopefully by next week.

-We might hear something about this within a couple of weeks of it being sent (okay, I know that I've said this before, but I'm sayin' it again, and clinging to faith that it will happen).

-Our agency representative is traveling to India (and R.'s home state) in January.

-This adoption will affect more than just one little girl. There's a lot going on in Ind*a, and especially R.'s state, right now. Please pray.

-God is so very, very good. I like Him a lot!!!

So, that's the scoop.

It's pretty much all I know,

and that's enough

for now.

socks

2011-10-17T18:23:00.000-06:00

My beloved youngest son loves to wear socks many, many days in a row.

I have to be on top of my game if I want to make sure that he changes socks every day.

Yes...sometimes he even puts on dirty socks after taking a shower.

So, the other day, I asked him why he didn't like to change socks, and he told me that he just didn't have very many pairs of socks.

Now, I knew that this wasn't true because I seem to be constantly buying socks. So, I questioned him about this answer.

Jadon clarified that he didn't have many pairs of socks that he liked.

Okay, I can understand that...who likes wearing saggy socks or tight socks? So, I asked Jadon to make a pile of the socks that were uncomfortable.

And here it is...I think that there were about 25 pairs of socks in that pile.

That left 6 pairs of socks that he liked.

six

I'm not gonna even get into the underwear issues we have around here.

Oh how I love this silly, dirty sock-wearin', Saturday Night fever kind of boy!

Heaven made you

2011-10-15T16:59:00.000-06:00

Grace

Tiny fingers

little nose

all the way down to your delicate toes,

you were formed in the heart of a very big God.

Inside out

all of your ways

known by your Maker

before you lived one of your days.

Heaven made you

held out the plan to save you

set you apart

gave you a heart like your Maker.

The Father sang your song

the angels danced along

when Heaven made you.

Eyes of wonder

ears to hear

hands to praise your Father so near,

you were formed in the heart of a very kind God.

A bright mind to learn

a heart that is true

gifts deep inside

all from the Father to you.

Heaven made you

held out the plan to save you

set you apart

gave you a heart like your Maker.

The Father sang your song

the angels danced along

when Heaven made you.

The Father sang your song

the angels danced along

when heaven made you.

(Heaven Made you, by Kimberly Hazlett)

We're so glad that Heaven made you, our precious girl.

We love you beyond words.

Have a blessed seventh birthday, sweet Grace.

finding the balance...?

2011-10-13T23:08:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I get tired of that phrase...

finding the balance

Sometimes I want to give my life away so completely

that I burn out for Him.

Sometimes I get weary of wondering

whether this ministry

or that sort of giving

will tax our family too much.

Sometimes I want to give it all...every single breath.

And I want my family to give every single breath.

Sometimes I want to stop considering whether or not we can

handle more children.

I want to adopt twenty-five children.

Twenty-five

beautiful, precious, messy, loud children

and

I want to move to India

or Africa

or Haiti
and
give everything we own away.

And the thing is...

God does ask me to give it all.

He asks me to give every single bit.

He doesn't ask me to find the balance.

He tells me to give my life away.

But, He also tells me that I am human.

I am not God.

I cannot do everything.

And to think that I can is

quite frankly

ridiculous.

So, instead of asking how I can find the balance in my life,

I am asking how I can give my life away

completely

as a human being

who is finite

and who lives in this place

right here

right now.

(Anyone care to join me in losing our balance?)

updated (please pray)

2011-10-11T21:24:00.000-06:00

Okay, one more update: Test looks good! Hooray! She's still recovering from spinal menengitis, but everything else is normal. Thank you Jesus!

Another update: I mentioned that one of the tests for our friend's granddaughter came back abnormal. It actually could be very serious. Please, please pray for this family and this precious girl.

Update: Our friend's granddaughter does have menengitis, but it is the viral type (which is much less serious). She is still in the hospital because one test came back abnormal, so they are keeping her there to absolutely rule out the possiblity of bacterial menengitis.

Their daughter is doing a bit better, but is still very sick (she has severe asthma aggravated by fires).

Please keep praying for both of them and their families! Thanks so much!

Dear ones, would you please pray for our precious friends? A. is in Texas with their (adult) daughter who just got out of the hospital yesterday. She has been very sick, so A. has been helping to care for their five children. Then today, A. and K.'s granddaughter (who lives here) went to the E.R. with possible menengitis. Both their daughter and their granddaughter's conditions are quite serious. Pray that our beautiful Jesus would heal His precious ones and that He would give them supernatural strength and peace.

And please keep praying for Hailey...such a precious little girl.

the big switch

2011-10-11T18:18:00.000-06:00

Yana and Lily wanted to "switch" hair today.

(Lily went curly and Yana went straight.)

So, of course, I had to get a photo.

But, I didn't realize how difficult that would be!

We couldn't stop laughing!

I may be biased, but I think that these two are just too cute!

Sweet Hailey

2011-10-10T17:34:00.000-06:00

Please pray for this special little girl. Hailey's family just found out that she has leukemia and they are in the midst of some pretty intense treatment. Hailey's sister, Taylor, is from the same province as our little Grace, and our families used the same adoption agency.

Precious Jesus, give this family strength and encouragement today. May beautiful little Hailey experience complete healing in Your name. May You be glorified in their lives.

three mamas

2011-10-08T02:00:00.000-06:00

It was the year 2000.

In three very different places in the world, there were three very different women.

But these women had one thing in common.

They were all pregnant.

In fact, their due dates were within days of one another.

The first woman lived in a small village in China.

She was poor.

This was her first child.

She hoped for a son to carry on the family name.

The second woman lived in Ind*a.

She was also very poor.

She may have had other children.

She, too, probably hoped that this child would be a boy.

The third woman lived in the United States.

She was not wealthy by her country's standards,

but she was certainly rich by the world's standards.

She had access to medical care and healthy food and all of the comforts of a first world country.

This woman didn't know it yet,

but she was carrying twins.

It was October 8.

The three women were almost half-way through their pregnancies.

But the third woman would suffer today.

She would lose the babies.

She would feel as if she would die from the grief.

A few months later (on the day before the third woman's original due date),
the second woman would give birth to a little girl.

Because of poverty,

or because of gender,

this mama could not keep her new baby.

She would feel as if she would die from the grief.

One week later,
the first woman would give birth to her baby.

It was a son!

But, because he had a medical condition that she and her husband could not afford,
they could not keep their baby boy.

She would feel as if she would die from the grief.

Today.

It is eleven years from the day that the third woman suffered so greatly.

She lost two babies on that day.

She felt as if she would die from the grief.

But, God.

On this day, eleven years later, she hugged the first woman's son

(who was now her beloved son).

On this day, she prayed for the second woman's daughter

(who would soon become her long-treasured daughter).

And though no one could ever replace the two babies that she lost,

there has been redemption in the third woman's life.

Oh dear God,

may there be redemption for all three mamas today.

May these women no longer feel as if they would die from the grief,

but may they know that their son and their daughter are

dearly loved

beloved

treasured.

Redemption.

May we all experience it

today.

clinging faith

2011-10-06T21:13:00.000-06:00

Dear Lord, we cling to Thee.

Yes, cling. Your faith shall be rewarded. Do you not know what it means to feel a little trusting hand in yours, to know a child's confidence?

Does that not draw out your Love and desire to protect, to care? Think what My Heart feels, when in your helplessness you turn to Me, clinging, desiring My Love and Protection.

Would you fail that child, faulty and weak as you are? Could I fail you? Just know it is not possible. Know all is well. You must not doubt. You must be sure. There is no miracle I cannot perform, nothing I cannot do. No eleventh hour rescue I cannot accomplish.

God Calling, October 6

When we adopted Grace, God was teaching us all about His grace. From the moment that she was placed in my arms, I experienced His supernatural, overflowing, abundant grace. He poured out more and more, and when we didn't think that there could be any left, there was. Our precious daughter was a generous Father's love gift to us. She was (and is) a symbol of His grace in our lives.

And now, our kind Father is teaching us what it means to have faith...true faith, faith that doesn't let go when the way seems unclear, faith that holds fast to His promises, faith that does not look for the easy way out.

Could I fail you?

He asks.

Just know that it is not possible.

It is not possible.

I am clinging to this truth.

I am clinging to His promises.

He will never fail me.

He will never fail you.

He will never fail our precious R. Faith.

(yes, her middle name will be Faith)

Dear Lord, we cling to Thee.

Wordless Wednesday (good buddies)

2011-10-05T15:05:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I can't keep it totally wordless, because these are two of my favorite people in the whole world!

Caleb is one of Adam and Jadon's very best friends, but ever since they were little, Lily and Caleb have always been good buddies, as well.

Caleb is one of the kindest, most thoughtful boys on the whole planet and Lily has always appreciated that in Caleb (who wouldn't...?!).

So, so very grateful for wonderful friends in my children's lives...

My, how she's grown!

2011-10-03T22:46:00.000-06:00

Oh my goodness! Look at my sweet angel-baby!

It's been almost three years since we traveled to China to adopt our precious Grace.

She has brought nothing but absolute joy to our family.

I cannot imagine our lives without her.

When packing for our trip to China, I knew that Grace was pretty small. So, although she was four years old, I brought mostly 3T clothes (which were way too big!). I also brought this one size 4 skirt and shirt.

I had to pin the skirt and roll up the shirt sleeves

but, it still looked cute on her!

A couple of weeks ago, my almost seven year old daughter put this outfit on (for perhaps the last time).

Sweet baby, look how you've grown!

Tall and strong and amazing!

I adore that toothless grin.

My, how she's grown!!

(Okay, baby, you can stop now!)

two precious ones having surgery today...

2011-10-03T05:37:00.000-06:00

Please pray for little Ruby and for Joshua John. Ruby is with her mama in Uganda and Joshua John just made it home to the U.S. They are both having surgery today. I'm so very grateful that this two little ones have their families with them while they have these surgeries.

Lord, heal Ruby and J.J.'s bodies (the bodies that you so lovingly created). Give strength to their families,who love them so dearly. Continue to be their Strong Deliverer! Thank you for the amazing love that you have poured out upon these children and their families. You are so good, Jesus! You are so good!

fingerprints and a (very) little news...

2011-10-01T08:19:00.000-06:00

We found out on Thursday that we didn't need to wait for our official date to have our fingerprints taken for the INS, but that we could show up anytime. So we did! David and I drove an hour-and-a-half to the INS office, were in the office for about 20 minutes, and then drove home. Hallelujah! It feels good to have one more step completed. I do think that with adoptions and working in schools, I've had about 20 sets of fingerprints taken in the past 20 years!

We also found out that the Joint Council will be back from Ind*a this week. They were in the state where our little girl lives and should have some answers for us very, very soon. The Ind*a coordinator at our adoption agency said that she was ready to get on a plane herself to get some answers. Me too! (Oh yes, I'd get on a plane today if I could!)

We love you so much, precious R. It's been a long wait (for offical approval), but we would never give up on you! You are a treasure and we can't wait to hold you in our arms. We are so grateful that R. is receiving abundant love and care where she is right now, but we also know that she will thrive most in a family. We are so ready to be her forever family!

(in)spired

2011-09-28T21:07:00.000-06:00

Hey friends! I just want to let you know about a great offer from Dayspring Cards. I received a set of 10 free cards, just for agreeing to do a review on my blog. Really, there is nothing more to it!

The cards are high quality and are a mix of beautiful and cute. It was wonderful to have them on hand during our month of birthdays in September! Here's one that you might like to give to a little friend:

There are new items to choose from every month. This month Dayspring is offering your choice of four different recordable books..so cute and great for grandparents, etc. Check them out here, and have fun!

A double celebration

2011-09-26T21:12:00.000-06:00

We had a party-weekend at our house! Fun, fun, fun!
(Except the part where Rosemary ate about a cup-and-a-half of m-n-m's and we had to take her to the doggy E.R. in the middle of the night. That part wasn't so fun.)

But she's okay now, so back to the fun parts...

First of all, my fabulous hubby turned 41.

Wow! I love this guy!

We started out the celebration with presents and hugs.

Then, after church my nephew, Cole, came to our house. He and David share the same birthday, but we don't usually get to celebrate with Cole, so this year was extra-special. The kids all adore Cole and he's so kind to them.

Our friends, David and Bryan, came over, as well, and we all played street hockey.

(Okay, Grace and I didn't play, but somebody had to take picutres and provide snacks.)

After hockey and snacks, we enjoyed a rousing game of charades. Can you believe that this was the first time that Cole has ever played charades?!

After dinner, we sat outside and roasted marshmallows.

S'mores were a hit.

Happy Birthday, David and Cole!

We love you both so much!

Lily wrote a poem in honor of David's birthday, so I'll end with this:

A Poem for Dad

By, Lily

I’m sure I have the best dad of all.

If you didn’t know, He likes to play ball.

He loves God with all his heart, soul and mind,

A better father I don’t think you could find!

When I feel sad,

he makes me feel glad.

He loves nature, and I’m sure it loves him!

He’s so gentle with God’s creatures. Sin is just not for him!

Maple and Rosy, they love daddy too.

Everybody takes him as a father, they do!

If you cannot see, I love my daddy.

God sure had a plan, when he gave him to our family!