Travelling to Seattle, or LA, or even NYC is nothing compared to getting ready to travel across the big blue. Every night I work on a little on packing, getting rooms ready, cleaning, etc. There is so much to worry about, correct money to exchange, kids clothes for kids I don't know the size of, hot weather, cold weather, rain and dry times, kid medicines, lotions, soaps, diapers, bottles, toys, etc. Being a new mama and all I just don't know what to pack! I think we will be doing a lot of shopping before we get them.
We only have 7 days before we leave! I just can't believe it! I only have 1 day left of work for the next 2-3 months. Life is so good. I am just so excited to meet our new children. It is going to be a long trip over and back. We fly to Seattle to London to Addis. We get into Addis at 1 am! Then we wake up the next morning and meet our kids for the first time! After being with them for awhile we will go shopping for diapers, formula, snacks, etc. There will be two other families there by then, maybe three. That night, late, one of the families comes in late. The next day we go to the US Embassy to get our Visas for the children. This is a long and hot process. It sounds like there may be some tough questions, we hope we are prepared. Of course during this time Kev, Nick and Malchi will be lounging at the pool or playing a little tennis. After the Embassy appointment they are in our custody! We get them forever!
There is so much to do in Ethiopia. We are hoping to travel to the country and see villages, go to a hot spring, and meet families. There is a hike to a church carved into stone, museums, crafts, dancing, coffee, and Ethiopian food! We will have 6 full days to spend time in Ethiopia with our children. We are going to transfer from the Hilton to a guest house after getting the kids. I am really looking forward to it. It is a Baptist mission house and another family before us stayed there and loved it! Here is a link to the website http://addiskidan.blogspot.com/ We are really excited for this experience and to have someone help us understand our children! I talked with her today and I got even more excited about our trip!
Life is pretty hectic right now. Sorry if we haven't called. We aren't trying to ignore anyone, we just fall into bed every night exhausted! Our last journey of our trip will be interesting. We have to stay in Chicago overnight on the way back. That will be difficult! We then wake up and have to travel to Seattle and then on to Spokane. We have a 7 hour layover in Seattle but we are going to BEG to be on standby. As long as there is openings we should be ok.
I am excited to share this next step in our journey with everyone. You are all always in my prayers. Thank you to everyone for your support.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Birth Certificates and the meaning of names
Here is the birth certificate of Sophia (BeEmnet). BeEmnet means "thru faith". Thru our faith we received two perfect gifts - salvation from death thru Christ and our baby girl. Sophia means "wisdom". Throughout the adoption we definitely received wisdom daily from the Lord to His perfect timing and plan.
Here is Giovanni (Alemayhu). Giovanni means "God is gracious". Boy has He ever been gracious to us - 3 kids. Alemayhu means "I saw the world". He will definitely have seen the world by the time we get our children home.
We don't have a picture of Caleb (Mamegela). We don't know why. Caleb means "faithful". Throughout this process we have learned how to be faithful in the Lord. Mamegela means "you are a part of me". From the beginning of referrals, Caleb was with us. He has always been in our hearts.
There you have it! The new additions to the Raskells!
Travel, Compassion and Love
So, we are set. We leave July 8th for Ethiopia! We come back on July 19th to Spokane. I feel so blessed, our airline tickets worked out, our hotel is a split. We will stay at the Hilton at first and then a guest house the last half. The guest house will help translate, cook for us, etc. I am so excited for this new journey to begin!
I started filling out a Compassion sponsorship form today. We picked a little girl from Brazil. What a great program for so cheap. I think giving up latte's is well worth my $30 a month. More to come about our new Brazilian child. :)
Finally, I just read this verse and it reminded me why we are here. Ephesians 5:1-2 "Follow God's example in everything you do, becaue you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him." This is so true. God loves us to follow Him. It is that simple. He has lead us on this journey and I know He will continue to care for us even at late night feedings, nightmares, temper tantrums, and "I don't want to's".
I started filling out a Compassion sponsorship form today. We picked a little girl from Brazil. What a great program for so cheap. I think giving up latte's is well worth my $30 a month. More to come about our new Brazilian child. :)
Finally, I just read this verse and it reminded me why we are here. Ephesians 5:1-2 "Follow God's example in everything you do, becaue you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love for others, following the example of Christ, who loved you and gave himself as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, because that sacrifice was like sweet perfume to him." This is so true. God loves us to follow Him. It is that simple. He has lead us on this journey and I know He will continue to care for us even at late night feedings, nightmares, temper tantrums, and "I don't want to's".
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
It is time
It is time to PACK! We leave NEXT WEDNESDAY!!!!!! Our embassy appointment is July 11th and the only flights (so far) are July 5th leave Seattle and fly out of Addis on July 20th! Oh my goodness, we are going to be there a long time!
We are going with 5 other families!
God is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Good!
We are going with 5 other families!
God is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Good!
Waiting
We wait our whole lives for great things. We wait to give birth. Then as a baby we wait for the bottle, the diaper change. As a child we wait for Kindergarten ("big school"), we wait for Junior High, for High School. While in high school we wait for the perfect boy/girl, our driver's license for Joey to ask us to the prom, for graduation, senior skip day, college. In college we wait for our first dorm experience, life without parents, late night studies, finals, and yet again graduation. Then we wait for the phone call to say "you got the job" or "better luck next time". Women wait for the perfect man to marry and have kids with. Men wait for the perfect women. We wait for the ring and the I wills and then the I do. We wait for the two pink lines to say "You're Pregnant".
And so it is with adoption. I waited for George to say "I will". This happened on January 15th, my 30th birthday. Then we waited for the "Your approved! The checks in the mail." This happened on Feb 8th. You wait for the homestudy meeting (February 13th) and the approved study (March 13th). And then on to waiting for UCIS and that oh so wanted 171H form (May 3rd). Or the phone call for the "we have a baby girl for you! she is gorgeus!" (May 1st). Then we waited to hear when the court date was. Our first court date was June 9th. Then waiting and waiting for the "You're Parents!" We didn't initially get that call, we got the "You have another court date - June 14th". So we waited for the "You're parents" again (June 16th). And now we wait for our travel date. This will be the last phone call we truly "wait" for. The next big wait is the day we sit in the hotel lobby and wait for our children to come meet us for the first time.
Our life is full of waits. In the end the only wait that really matters is waiting to get to heaven. All these other trials and waits, are only preparation for our eternal home with our Glorious Father. Pray for us today waiting for this phone call. And pray for our travel.
And so the circle of waits begin and transfer to the waits of our children in Ethiopia and here at home. The waits of school, the bottle, the girlfriend, christmas morning, birthday parties, graduations, weddings, and new children. So it is with the Lord as He too waits with us in each of these steps. He waits with us to say "Lord, I trust you. Come into my heart." or "Lord it is thru you that I am saved." or even "Lord, forgive me. I am a sinful man." Trust the Lord, He is our comforter thru all our waits.
And so it is with adoption. I waited for George to say "I will". This happened on January 15th, my 30th birthday. Then we waited for the "Your approved! The checks in the mail." This happened on Feb 8th. You wait for the homestudy meeting (February 13th) and the approved study (March 13th). And then on to waiting for UCIS and that oh so wanted 171H form (May 3rd). Or the phone call for the "we have a baby girl for you! she is gorgeus!" (May 1st). Then we waited to hear when the court date was. Our first court date was June 9th. Then waiting and waiting for the "You're Parents!" We didn't initially get that call, we got the "You have another court date - June 14th". So we waited for the "You're parents" again (June 16th). And now we wait for our travel date. This will be the last phone call we truly "wait" for. The next big wait is the day we sit in the hotel lobby and wait for our children to come meet us for the first time.
Our life is full of waits. In the end the only wait that really matters is waiting to get to heaven. All these other trials and waits, are only preparation for our eternal home with our Glorious Father. Pray for us today waiting for this phone call. And pray for our travel.
And so the circle of waits begin and transfer to the waits of our children in Ethiopia and here at home. The waits of school, the bottle, the girlfriend, christmas morning, birthday parties, graduations, weddings, and new children. So it is with the Lord as He too waits with us in each of these steps. He waits with us to say "Lord, I trust you. Come into my heart." or "Lord it is thru you that I am saved." or even "Lord, forgive me. I am a sinful man." Trust the Lord, He is our comforter thru all our waits.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Blind views and my changed thoughts
Who knew that 6 months ago I would be packing to fly half-way around the world to pick up 3 children that are MINE. My heart and thoughts has changed so much over the last months. God has opened up my heart to see the love, the tragedy and the wonders of this world. Most of us reading this live in America - plentiful America. A place where everything comes in sizes - s, m, l, xl, giant size that, biggie size this, twin, full, queen, king, single or double, endless hashbrowns, all you can eat buffets, on and on. Then you travel or see other countries. Italy doesn't have the giant size at McDonalds and they aren't that poor of a country. They don't gorge themselves at every meal or buy everything in bulk. Then you go further into 3rd world countries, Mexico, Ethiopia, Sudan, Cambodia, etc. How do these countries make it?
My mind is such a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts. I grieve for my children's birthcountry. A country so overrun with poverty, corruptness, disease, rituals we can't imagine, famine, etc. But as I look at the pictures of their people, they smile, they hug, they laugh, and they love. The Ethiopians love their children, their culture, their families, their lives. They only eat about once every two days, they carry water miles and miles, they don't have shoes or a closet of clothes, the have scars and burns from accidents and healers, they walk 2 miles to school (if they are lucky), and they watch as their parents die, or their siblings die. Yet, they actually ENJOY life. They do work for their lives, not just sit at a computer like I do. They sweat for food and build muscles to get drinking water (which is also bathing, cleaning, and cooking water) They have PURE courage we could never have in our comfort lives. They have courage I could never muster if I were in their shoes. They endure what we will most of us will ever only see in movies, pictures, books, and quick adoption or missionary journeys.
I watched a movie last night - Beyond Borders (Angelina Jolie). If you can put aside the swearing, the not needed love story, and the sex scene and really look at what is portrayed for 3 countries, you would be shocked - I was. I stayed up 2 hours after the movie was over - numb. How can we not do more for these children? How can I not pick up my cross daily and also carry their burden, too? Although I don't agree with a lot of the lifestyle choices of Angelina, she does have a heart for these countries. If you rent the movie watch her ambassador section on the bonus materials.
I am scared to travel to Ethiopia. How will I really handle this different culture? Will my older teenage kids be immune to it? Or will they be moved to change their perspectives. We all know what teenagers are like here. Very in their moment and in their needs. A 16 year old in Ethiopia is struggling to take care of his younger siblings, wishing to go to school, hurting from hunger pains. American teenagers complain because they get grounded, they can't leave until homework is done, they have homework, they are hungry, etc. And I complain because "there is NOTHING to eat!" How can we be so desensitized to this world?
So, what am I going to do? I feel God is starting the call on my heart, but to what? That I leave to God to tell me as time goes on. Everyday I am more and more amazed at God's power and His love for us. I just can't believe how blessed I am to be here and to have what I have. Even if God took it all away (see Job's story in the Old Testament), I would still have Him to take care of me. He loves us all so much and He doesn't want any of us to not be in relationship with Him. I don't know if we will adopt again, or become missionaries, or sponsor 1, 3, or 10 children from AHOPE, Compassion International, etc. I only know I trust God with my life and where He will lead us on our next journey.
Stayed tuned for my next entry where I discuss in more detail God's hand in my life. I have had a lot of time to reflect on His blessings, His love, His mercy and His care.
My mind is such a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts. I grieve for my children's birthcountry. A country so overrun with poverty, corruptness, disease, rituals we can't imagine, famine, etc. But as I look at the pictures of their people, they smile, they hug, they laugh, and they love. The Ethiopians love their children, their culture, their families, their lives. They only eat about once every two days, they carry water miles and miles, they don't have shoes or a closet of clothes, the have scars and burns from accidents and healers, they walk 2 miles to school (if they are lucky), and they watch as their parents die, or their siblings die. Yet, they actually ENJOY life. They do work for their lives, not just sit at a computer like I do. They sweat for food and build muscles to get drinking water (which is also bathing, cleaning, and cooking water) They have PURE courage we could never have in our comfort lives. They have courage I could never muster if I were in their shoes. They endure what we will most of us will ever only see in movies, pictures, books, and quick adoption or missionary journeys.
I watched a movie last night - Beyond Borders (Angelina Jolie). If you can put aside the swearing, the not needed love story, and the sex scene and really look at what is portrayed for 3 countries, you would be shocked - I was. I stayed up 2 hours after the movie was over - numb. How can we not do more for these children? How can I not pick up my cross daily and also carry their burden, too? Although I don't agree with a lot of the lifestyle choices of Angelina, she does have a heart for these countries. If you rent the movie watch her ambassador section on the bonus materials.
I am scared to travel to Ethiopia. How will I really handle this different culture? Will my older teenage kids be immune to it? Or will they be moved to change their perspectives. We all know what teenagers are like here. Very in their moment and in their needs. A 16 year old in Ethiopia is struggling to take care of his younger siblings, wishing to go to school, hurting from hunger pains. American teenagers complain because they get grounded, they can't leave until homework is done, they have homework, they are hungry, etc. And I complain because "there is NOTHING to eat!" How can we be so desensitized to this world?
So, what am I going to do? I feel God is starting the call on my heart, but to what? That I leave to God to tell me as time goes on. Everyday I am more and more amazed at God's power and His love for us. I just can't believe how blessed I am to be here and to have what I have. Even if God took it all away (see Job's story in the Old Testament), I would still have Him to take care of me. He loves us all so much and He doesn't want any of us to not be in relationship with Him. I don't know if we will adopt again, or become missionaries, or sponsor 1, 3, or 10 children from AHOPE, Compassion International, etc. I only know I trust God with my life and where He will lead us on our next journey.
Stayed tuned for my next entry where I discuss in more detail God's hand in my life. I have had a lot of time to reflect on His blessings, His love, His mercy and His care.
Adoption Suggestions
So, I have become and experienced blog reader. You don't even want to know how many blogs I have on my favorites. It is such a great way to get advice, encouragement and support. I was reading through a blog this morning and found these top ten helpful hints to support an adoptive family. What a great way to put it! Adoption is a hard process and somedays you just don't want to deal with it and others all you want to do is talk about it. My advice for anyone who knows someone who is adopted, has adopted or is adopting - support them, listen to them and be just as excited as if they are pregnant. I think people tend to think adoption is different from a pregnancy, it really isn't. I love my children and I feel them growing - in my heart.
Ten Ways To Support An Adoptive Family
1. If you're asked to write a reference letter for the homestudy, do it promptly. It will mean a lot to the family to know their adoption is a high priority for you too.
2. Especially if the wait drags on a long time, don't constantly ask if they've heard any news. Some moms adore giving you the blow by blow during the wait. But many moms find the wait difficult, and get tired of saying, "No, we still don't know when he/she is coming home." Ask instead how the nursery is coming along, or invite her out to lunch.
3. Don't ask the parents to share all the details of their child's past. Unless they choose to share it, assume this is private information for the family alone.
4. Do throw them a baby shower and/or bring baby gifts before the child comes home. Honor the adoptive mom with your faith that this will happen for her.
5.Do arrange with friends to bring meals for a week or two after the new child comes home. An adopted child deserves all the normal new-baby hoopla, after all.
6. Do allow the family a couple weeks to settle in together at home. Wait awhile before planning big welcome parties.
7. Don't expect to hold the new child much at first. Even if you're the grandparent, it's a good idea to let the child get used to mom and dad before branching out to extended family and friends.
8. Do offer to take other children in the family for fun outings now and then. They will enjoy the extra attention in the midst of adjusting to a new sibling.
9. Do offer to run errands for the family in the first weeks after homecoming: take siblings to sports practices, get groceries, or run to the dry cleaners. Anything you can do to free up mom's time will help with bonding in those first weeks.
10. Do notice signs that the child is beginning to bond with his/her new family. A mom will treasure an honest heart-felt comment such as, "Wow, look how your baby looks at you! You can tell he is really starting to fall in love with you!"
Ten Ways To Support An Adoptive Family
1. If you're asked to write a reference letter for the homestudy, do it promptly. It will mean a lot to the family to know their adoption is a high priority for you too.
2. Especially if the wait drags on a long time, don't constantly ask if they've heard any news. Some moms adore giving you the blow by blow during the wait. But many moms find the wait difficult, and get tired of saying, "No, we still don't know when he/she is coming home." Ask instead how the nursery is coming along, or invite her out to lunch.
3. Don't ask the parents to share all the details of their child's past. Unless they choose to share it, assume this is private information for the family alone.
4. Do throw them a baby shower and/or bring baby gifts before the child comes home. Honor the adoptive mom with your faith that this will happen for her.
5.Do arrange with friends to bring meals for a week or two after the new child comes home. An adopted child deserves all the normal new-baby hoopla, after all.
6. Do allow the family a couple weeks to settle in together at home. Wait awhile before planning big welcome parties.
7. Don't expect to hold the new child much at first. Even if you're the grandparent, it's a good idea to let the child get used to mom and dad before branching out to extended family and friends.
8. Do offer to take other children in the family for fun outings now and then. They will enjoy the extra attention in the midst of adjusting to a new sibling.
9. Do offer to run errands for the family in the first weeks after homecoming: take siblings to sports practices, get groceries, or run to the dry cleaners. Anything you can do to free up mom's time will help with bonding in those first weeks.
10. Do notice signs that the child is beginning to bond with his/her new family. A mom will treasure an honest heart-felt comment such as, "Wow, look how your baby looks at you! You can tell he is really starting to fall in love with you!"
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
It's a hot day out there!
"I don't know Dad, what is that big bad hose gonna do?" Our poor Brutus, he is so afraid of water.
"Ahhh, isn't this the good life." Our Reeses Pieces loves his pool!
This is the extent that Brutis will actually get into the pool. He just stands in it and sticks his big ol' head in the water and actually sucks up the water!
Ahhh, 3 of my favorite boys! This was after a great night of min-golf, laser tag, the dancing game, and yet another photo opportunity. (The boys had already had portraits done on Sunday for Father's Day)
Sunday, June 18, 2006
A Special Gift on Father's Day
Here is to our Dad/Husband!
Nick, Malcom, Kevin (left to right)
Malcom, Nick, Kevin (left to right)
So, what better Father's Day present than to say "Congratulations! You are a new dad!" Well that is what my hubby got for his father's day - 3 new kids (and a super soaker, and kid plastic golf set, and silly putty, and wheel of fortune, and studio portraits of his two older sons). We had a great day of church, shopping, mini-golf, laser tag, video games, dinner and more shopping. It really was a great day.
I just can't believe how blessed I am to have such a wonderful husband. He loves us all so much and I couldn't imagine life without him. He is so good to the kids we have now and I just know he will love our 3 news just the same.
Ummmm, yeah. Geeks. This was what happened when two boys put me at my wits end and they were forced to sit at the table and do nothing. Well, I forgot to take away the plastic gloves. Thanks Dad for always showing us a way to laugh!
Here are a few of the "hockey sons" of ours. This was from our end of the year hockey bbq. What a great season we had and such great families. We were so blessed with a Godly
bunch of people!
Nick, Malcom, Kevin (left to right)
Malcom, Nick, Kevin (left to right)
So, what better Father's Day present than to say "Congratulations! You are a new dad!" Well that is what my hubby got for his father's day - 3 new kids (and a super soaker, and kid plastic golf set, and silly putty, and wheel of fortune, and studio portraits of his two older sons). We had a great day of church, shopping, mini-golf, laser tag, video games, dinner and more shopping. It really was a great day.
I just can't believe how blessed I am to have such a wonderful husband. He loves us all so much and I couldn't imagine life without him. He is so good to the kids we have now and I just know he will love our 3 news just the same.
Ummmm, yeah. Geeks. This was what happened when two boys put me at my wits end and they were forced to sit at the table and do nothing. Well, I forgot to take away the plastic gloves. Thanks Dad for always showing us a way to laugh!
Here are a few of the "hockey sons" of ours. This was from our end of the year hockey bbq. What a great season we had and such great families. We were so blessed with a Godlybunch of people!
Saturday, June 17, 2006
I am a mom!
So, it is finally offical. Yep, I am a mom again. We heard last night from our case worker that our court date was successful. We are hoping to travel in the next few weeks. I am humbled at the opportunity to be a parent to these children. I just can't believe God chose me for the task. I know many say "3 kids? No way!" But as long as God calls me to this life, I have to be obedient and follow. He has given me strength when I didn't think I could go on and ge will continue to help me along the way.
I received an email from a friend who is in Ethiopia right now. She is humbled by their way of life. It is shocking how they live and how little they have. Some people only get one meal a day if they are lucky while others go days without. These children don't know to eat and they have to be trained to eat to keep healthy. Please pray for all the children and families in our children's birth country. I feel so blessed to go to this country and experience this journey with those that I love.
I leave you with our children.
Here is Giovanni. He is about 3 1/2 years old. I think he is going to be our energetic Nick-like child. What a great smile.
Here is Caleb's referral picture. He is 5 yrs old and the big brother to this Ethiopian siblings. His updated picture didn't want to work! We love to see him smile and he has got the coolest hair!
Finally, our little girl, Sophia. We think she is about 4 months old. We sent her the little dress she has on along with the shirt and socks. Look at those big eyes!
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Preparations
Well all, still no news. I am ok with it. Just waiting for that call that says "HI MOM! Court was successful." In the meantime I almost have the nursery ready. I'll try to post pictures soon. I did forget to take pictures of the trashy study before the transformation. I still have the crib and wall hangings. Then we get to tackle the boys room. What a mess! I just don't know what to do with my clothes in the dressers in their. It used to be the guest room with two dressers. Hmmm, stuck on that one.
Brutus, the Great Dane, conquered the exersaucer last night. He sure made the cat sound fear him, or yet maybe it was the other way around. I'll get some pictures to post too.
Only about a month left! I just can't believe it is almost here! Wooohoooo!
Brutus, the Great Dane, conquered the exersaucer last night. He sure made the cat sound fear him, or yet maybe it was the other way around. I'll get some pictures to post too.
Only about a month left! I just can't believe it is almost here! Wooohoooo!
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
A beautiful story
I just finished a book by Corrie ten Boom called "The Hiding Place". It is a a true story about a family who had extreme faith even while being placed in jail and concentration camps during World War 2. To see family so strong in their faith after all they endured and one woman's calling to spread this news to all. I highly suggest you read it. Her faith was a testimony to me to continue through the struggles, praise God for the trials, and accept His blessings always. The Graham ministry has the movie online for free at http://www.billygraham.org/WWP_Movies.asp It is such an inspiring story.
Monday, June 12, 2006
A new day...
Well, we heard about court. We have another court date! I was a little disappointed, but it wasn't all bad news. They weren't aware of a form they had to fill out since our soon-to-be daughter comes from a different orphanage. Our new court date is Wednesday. So keep those prayers up! We'll be travelling in God's time and soon enough!
So keep your eyes posted for pictures hopefully by friday!
So keep your eyes posted for pictures hopefully by friday!
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Are you my mother?
Have any of you read that book? Are you my Mother? It was one of my favorites as a child and I already own our own to read to my own young children. That is a good question right now. Am I their mother? Is it legal? The children know, Dagne knows, God knows and soon we will know. I have kept myself busy this weekend visiting with other Ethiopian adoptive families. It is so wonderful to hear other families' stories. I am amazed more and more at God's blessings and where I am compared to a year ago, 6 months ago, and even a week ago. I have grown so much during this process. I have seen miracles in my life and others. I have seen God's mercy on me and I have been able to give mercy to others. I love the Lord so much and I know he loves me completely without conditions. We live in such a culture that places conditions on everything. God does not do that to use! Praise Him for that!
I am just so excited to be so much closer to my new children! Hopefully Monday or Tuesday I will be able to post pictures of all of them. It will be soon! Just think, it is the last month before we give birth. It is so hard to sleep because I am so uncomfortable!
"But God is so rich in mercy, andhe loved us so very much." Eph 2:4
I am just so excited to be so much closer to my new children! Hopefully Monday or Tuesday I will be able to post pictures of all of them. It will be soon! Just think, it is the last month before we give birth. It is so hard to sleep because I am so uncomfortable!
"But God is so rich in mercy, andhe loved us so very much." Eph 2:4
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Three children in court, a new mom to wait
So, the babies shoud be in court right now. It is 10 am their time in Addis, Ethiopia and 11 pm Washington State time. So much to think about and pray about and be humbled about. I am already a mother - to 3 wonderful boys. I did not give birth to them or raise them from infancy. I got them at 12 yrs old and 14 yrs old and 18 yrs old. But, they are my children in my heart. Stepchildren are a lot like adopted children. They are conceived in the heart. I love all my children and I would die for them all. I pray for them, cry for them, dream for them.
This is the first time I will be a "new" mom for little ones. I am scared, happy, nervous, excited, and mostly humbled. God is so awesome at what He has orchastrated in my life especially right now. I can't believe how quickly this process has been! I could be a mom right now! We started this process in mid-February and we should be back home with our children almost 6 months later. I look at the stresses of this process, dossier (morning sickness), fingerprinting (first ultrasound), referrals (2nd trimester tired, weird cravings, etc), court date (swollen ankles, tears, emotions), embassy date (birthday!). I have never had children naturally. I don't know what morning sickness feels like or being that tires or weird cravings, but I do know that I have had my stomach in knots, no sleep, emotional outbursts (this includes manic behavior), and weird cravings to tide over the stress.
What have I learned through all of this. I am so close with God. He is my Savior and He keeps His promises. When He created this earth He knew which children would be mine. I have learned to be patient with Him. I give it to Him. I have learned to release my burdens and make it hard on God and easy on me. I have fell in love with my husband again knowing we are going to be parents. I have fell in love with my stepchildren again, being reminded they are precious to God just as much as I am. I finally realized God's full love for me. I never fully understood the sacrifices God made for me until know. He is the ultimate Father and a perfect example for me to follow. I have learned to ask for help even when I don't want to. (Yes, I will let you all know shortly what we need done!).
There you have it! My ah-ha thoughts at 11:30 pm as my brain starts to shut down.
Please pray for us and our new children in this important time in our lives. Pray for the Ethiopian staff and judges as they hear our case. Pray for our hearts as we anxiously wait. Pray for travel opportunities on the miraculous side (that is entirely separate entry). Pray for our children's families as they lose a family member. Pray for the children as God prepares them for their journey to America and our house.
I am going to bed now. I just know God will give me rest tonight.
This is the first time I will be a "new" mom for little ones. I am scared, happy, nervous, excited, and mostly humbled. God is so awesome at what He has orchastrated in my life especially right now. I can't believe how quickly this process has been! I could be a mom right now! We started this process in mid-February and we should be back home with our children almost 6 months later. I look at the stresses of this process, dossier (morning sickness), fingerprinting (first ultrasound), referrals (2nd trimester tired, weird cravings, etc), court date (swollen ankles, tears, emotions), embassy date (birthday!). I have never had children naturally. I don't know what morning sickness feels like or being that tires or weird cravings, but I do know that I have had my stomach in knots, no sleep, emotional outbursts (this includes manic behavior), and weird cravings to tide over the stress.
What have I learned through all of this. I am so close with God. He is my Savior and He keeps His promises. When He created this earth He knew which children would be mine. I have learned to be patient with Him. I give it to Him. I have learned to release my burdens and make it hard on God and easy on me. I have fell in love with my husband again knowing we are going to be parents. I have fell in love with my stepchildren again, being reminded they are precious to God just as much as I am. I finally realized God's full love for me. I never fully understood the sacrifices God made for me until know. He is the ultimate Father and a perfect example for me to follow. I have learned to ask for help even when I don't want to. (Yes, I will let you all know shortly what we need done!).
There you have it! My ah-ha thoughts at 11:30 pm as my brain starts to shut down.
Please pray for us and our new children in this important time in our lives. Pray for the Ethiopian staff and judges as they hear our case. Pray for our hearts as we anxiously wait. Pray for travel opportunities on the miraculous side (that is entirely separate entry). Pray for our children's families as they lose a family member. Pray for the children as God prepares them for their journey to America and our house.
I am going to bed now. I just know God will give me rest tonight.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
God is COOL!
We have a court date! It is this Friday, June 9th! By Friday night I could be another new mommy! We won't know until Mon or Tues what the outcome is but who cares!
This means we may travel by beginning to Mid-July! Got to start packing!
This means we may travel by beginning to Mid-July! Got to start packing!
Sunday, June 04, 2006
I am a blessed woman
So, I got the email I had been waiting for all week. Updates from Michelle (my case worker) on how my kids are doing. Sophia: she held for a 1/2 hour and said she was chubby, sweet and smiley. Caleb: she said was wonderful. Giovanni: she got to ride with (for 7 hours) from Soddo (where he is from) to Addis (where the foster orphanage is). She said he was scared and didn't know anyone and didn't say anything for almost all of the ride. But, she said he was brave and well-behaved. I was so excited to read these words! I just know I will get pictures soon!
On another happy note. I had my second baby shower. It just reiterates how blessed I am. We have almost everything we need almost just from gifts! Mom and Grandma absolutely spoiled these kids. I never knew it took so much to get started for a baby!
You all know by now, I try to include what I have learned over the days between posts. Like I said in the title, I am a blessed woman. Here is why:
*Jesus died on the cross for me and ALL my sins.
*My hubby was gone for 4 days and life fell apart without him. He is my special and wonderful blessing. He takes care of me and holds me together.
*My family spoils me and all my children. So do my friends. We have a whole bedroom full of gifts!
*I have a house, a car, a job, warmth, food, health insurance, and so much more.
*God has chosen ME to care for these innocent children of His. He really believes in us and our ability to care and nurture and lead these children in a Godly home. He knows we will raise our children to know who our Savior is and to see His love and protection for them.
*To live in a free country.
*To be alive.
*To have the right to pick up my cross and carry it every day.
*To have the right to say "Jesus is my Savior" out loud to anyone and witness to them.
*I could go on and on, but I have a few more points.
We learned today at church about a new step our church is taking and all the miracles we have gotten over 8 yrs since 2 families started God's calling to start a church - in their backyard. We talked about how the church went from 50 people to 6100 in 8 years and we are projected to be at 9000 next year. We had 500 baptisms last year and our middle school youth group is 400 (we know, we are there every wednesday with these kids :) I was once again reminded of God's power in ANYTHING He believes in. Our pastor shared with us why we have grown so quickly (OK, besides God's ability). Our church loves the unchurched. We love to reach out and see why people are they way they are and find out how to help them. He reminds us to pick up our cross, praise the Lord and preach the gospel to anyone. God will take care of opening their hearts.
He also talked about our recovery program. I have a family of recovering addicts. I have been really good about blaming them and honestly not giving them any credit and giving up on them. Even right now. Our pastor (a recovering addict) tolds us how we are ALL recovering addicts - addicts of sin. So, as christians we are to help pick up an addict and help them see the love of the Lord and the forgiveness they and we all deserve. God loves us all - whether drugs, sex, murder, lies, stealing, cheating, or just plain not believing in Him - He loves us. He loves us more than my father or mother love me, more than I will ever love my husband or children, more than Himself. He sent his only Son to the cross to save us from these sinful addictions. Remind someone struggling each day of this. I know He opened my heart to what I am to work on myself when dealing with my family and friends.
Finally, as our pastor said "Make it hard on God and easy on us." So, I pray for God to take my burdens from me. I pray He takes all the hard times and lets life be a little easy for awhile. He will do this. He already has. He is our Perfector. I can't believe what blessings I have in my life. Most importantly - God's almighty love.
1 Peter 4:8 "Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins." I need to remind myself of this daily. God loves the sinner and hates the sin, shouldn't I?
I pray the Lord speaks to your and my heart this week. I pray He helps us all see life and others through His eyes, not our own. I am going to try to keep track this week of the "bad" thoughts I have of others and then try to replace it with God's thoughts of that person. Let me know what you see and what you think.
Blessings.
On another happy note. I had my second baby shower. It just reiterates how blessed I am. We have almost everything we need almost just from gifts! Mom and Grandma absolutely spoiled these kids. I never knew it took so much to get started for a baby!
You all know by now, I try to include what I have learned over the days between posts. Like I said in the title, I am a blessed woman. Here is why:
*Jesus died on the cross for me and ALL my sins.
*My hubby was gone for 4 days and life fell apart without him. He is my special and wonderful blessing. He takes care of me and holds me together.
*My family spoils me and all my children. So do my friends. We have a whole bedroom full of gifts!
*I have a house, a car, a job, warmth, food, health insurance, and so much more.
*God has chosen ME to care for these innocent children of His. He really believes in us and our ability to care and nurture and lead these children in a Godly home. He knows we will raise our children to know who our Savior is and to see His love and protection for them.
*To live in a free country.
*To be alive.
*To have the right to pick up my cross and carry it every day.
*To have the right to say "Jesus is my Savior" out loud to anyone and witness to them.
*I could go on and on, but I have a few more points.
We learned today at church about a new step our church is taking and all the miracles we have gotten over 8 yrs since 2 families started God's calling to start a church - in their backyard. We talked about how the church went from 50 people to 6100 in 8 years and we are projected to be at 9000 next year. We had 500 baptisms last year and our middle school youth group is 400 (we know, we are there every wednesday with these kids :) I was once again reminded of God's power in ANYTHING He believes in. Our pastor shared with us why we have grown so quickly (OK, besides God's ability). Our church loves the unchurched. We love to reach out and see why people are they way they are and find out how to help them. He reminds us to pick up our cross, praise the Lord and preach the gospel to anyone. God will take care of opening their hearts.
He also talked about our recovery program. I have a family of recovering addicts. I have been really good about blaming them and honestly not giving them any credit and giving up on them. Even right now. Our pastor (a recovering addict) tolds us how we are ALL recovering addicts - addicts of sin. So, as christians we are to help pick up an addict and help them see the love of the Lord and the forgiveness they and we all deserve. God loves us all - whether drugs, sex, murder, lies, stealing, cheating, or just plain not believing in Him - He loves us. He loves us more than my father or mother love me, more than I will ever love my husband or children, more than Himself. He sent his only Son to the cross to save us from these sinful addictions. Remind someone struggling each day of this. I know He opened my heart to what I am to work on myself when dealing with my family and friends.
Finally, as our pastor said "Make it hard on God and easy on us." So, I pray for God to take my burdens from me. I pray He takes all the hard times and lets life be a little easy for awhile. He will do this. He already has. He is our Perfector. I can't believe what blessings I have in my life. Most importantly - God's almighty love.
1 Peter 4:8 "Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins." I need to remind myself of this daily. God loves the sinner and hates the sin, shouldn't I?
I pray the Lord speaks to your and my heart this week. I pray He helps us all see life and others through His eyes, not our own. I am going to try to keep track this week of the "bad" thoughts I have of others and then try to replace it with God's thoughts of that person. Let me know what you see and what you think.
Blessings.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Doubt - Conquer it Jesus style
So, I doubt. I doubt about EVERYTHING! Will we EVER get our kids, will I EVER catch up on sleep, will I EVER (insert anything in here). For awhile I used to dwell on my doubt - to the point of stressful sicknesses. Now, I recognize my doubt and I pray.
Don't get me wrong, Doubt is hard to break. I doubted an hour ago whether or not God really wanted to meet my friends and travel together to get our kids. I resigned to the fact He wanted us to hold back and that we would be last. Then I was reminded that God doesn't want me to doubt, only Satan does. God knows what is best. If He wants these three families to meet, we will. Maybe not in Ethiopia, but someday - before heaven.
We live in a culture that causes doubt in our minds. We always want what we don't have, therefor we doubt if we will ever get it. On Sunday we learned how John the Baptist - the guy who led the way for our Savior - doubted whether or not Christ was really our Savior. That amazed me! This wonderful great man did not believe that Christ was the Son of God? Wow! We all need to trust Jesus for our salvation and not lead our minds into doubt. The spiritual battle we are in is for our faith. When we doubt, we take away from our faith in our Lord.
So, as our pastor continued, he pointed out when we doubt. We doubt when we are tired (que the husband's nudge to my leg), we doubt when we are hungry, when we are alone (remember Jesus was tempted alone, hungry, tired, and hot in the desert), confused, hurt, etc. We have to watch out for these times when we are weak. When other's start to doubt, be their cheerleader no matter what their attitude. Try not to judge them, because we will also be in the same spot some day.
So, what can we do when we doubt. I try to remember why I am here. Jesus died for us to erase this doubt and to show us all is well and we are taken care of. Let Him carry your burden for a little - have faith and He will erase all doubts. We have to remember that God's perspective on things are different than ours. We want things to go how we plan. For example, as my youngest stepson fought to win Regionals so they could travel to State, I kept reminding myself that maybe God wanted the other boys to win. Maybe neither one of them had won anything before and God was showing them His power and glory. My stepson is a pure athlete and he will make it to state next year, so this year, it was someone else's turn. We have to remember there are so many other factors in our lives we can't see and God doesn't want us to see.
This week has been a struggle. I just want my children home! I doubted God's plan for them and us. I wondered what I had done wrong to not be able to get them home by when I wanted them home. This adoption process has been so wonderful for my faith and peace with God. God reminded me again today that I cannot make Jesus and His plan into something I want. There are to many other factors in play here. Jesus CHOSE to humble himself and be crucified. So, why can't I be humble and listen to what God is telling me. Open my heart and see what it is I am to be doing. I have a lot to do before my babies come home. But most importantly, I need to get right with God and my marriage and family needs to be right with God, too. Especially before we bring home these new ones. So, now my focus is on the Lord. What does HE want me to do?
Yesterday I started my fast of sugar again. The only thing I will allow is 1 scoop of ice cream (low cal) or frozen yogurt each night. I challenge each one of you to fast on something that is holding you back. What is something you feel you can't give up? Fast from it. Focus on the Lord, let Him get you back on track.
Phew, sorry for the longwinded chat. Let me know your thoughts. Let me know if you fast and how you do too!
Don't get me wrong, Doubt is hard to break. I doubted an hour ago whether or not God really wanted to meet my friends and travel together to get our kids. I resigned to the fact He wanted us to hold back and that we would be last. Then I was reminded that God doesn't want me to doubt, only Satan does. God knows what is best. If He wants these three families to meet, we will. Maybe not in Ethiopia, but someday - before heaven.
We live in a culture that causes doubt in our minds. We always want what we don't have, therefor we doubt if we will ever get it. On Sunday we learned how John the Baptist - the guy who led the way for our Savior - doubted whether or not Christ was really our Savior. That amazed me! This wonderful great man did not believe that Christ was the Son of God? Wow! We all need to trust Jesus for our salvation and not lead our minds into doubt. The spiritual battle we are in is for our faith. When we doubt, we take away from our faith in our Lord.
So, as our pastor continued, he pointed out when we doubt. We doubt when we are tired (que the husband's nudge to my leg), we doubt when we are hungry, when we are alone (remember Jesus was tempted alone, hungry, tired, and hot in the desert), confused, hurt, etc. We have to watch out for these times when we are weak. When other's start to doubt, be their cheerleader no matter what their attitude. Try not to judge them, because we will also be in the same spot some day.
So, what can we do when we doubt. I try to remember why I am here. Jesus died for us to erase this doubt and to show us all is well and we are taken care of. Let Him carry your burden for a little - have faith and He will erase all doubts. We have to remember that God's perspective on things are different than ours. We want things to go how we plan. For example, as my youngest stepson fought to win Regionals so they could travel to State, I kept reminding myself that maybe God wanted the other boys to win. Maybe neither one of them had won anything before and God was showing them His power and glory. My stepson is a pure athlete and he will make it to state next year, so this year, it was someone else's turn. We have to remember there are so many other factors in our lives we can't see and God doesn't want us to see.
This week has been a struggle. I just want my children home! I doubted God's plan for them and us. I wondered what I had done wrong to not be able to get them home by when I wanted them home. This adoption process has been so wonderful for my faith and peace with God. God reminded me again today that I cannot make Jesus and His plan into something I want. There are to many other factors in play here. Jesus CHOSE to humble himself and be crucified. So, why can't I be humble and listen to what God is telling me. Open my heart and see what it is I am to be doing. I have a lot to do before my babies come home. But most importantly, I need to get right with God and my marriage and family needs to be right with God, too. Especially before we bring home these new ones. So, now my focus is on the Lord. What does HE want me to do?
Yesterday I started my fast of sugar again. The only thing I will allow is 1 scoop of ice cream (low cal) or frozen yogurt each night. I challenge each one of you to fast on something that is holding you back. What is something you feel you can't give up? Fast from it. Focus on the Lord, let Him get you back on track.
Phew, sorry for the longwinded chat. Let me know your thoughts. Let me know if you fast and how you do too!
Friday, May 26, 2006
Tickets and Burdens
You know through this whole process I went through every emotion God gave us. Happiness, saddness, anger, bitterness, jealousy, joy, anxiety, fear, awe, flad, peace, beauty, on and on. Then (as usual) when I thought I was a my low point, a wonderful friend told me the following:
I want to sharesomething that has helped me often in these times- do you remember Corrie TinBoom who lived in Amsterdam and helped rescue Jews during WW II? She asked herfather once, as a child, how she would know she was ready for the Lord to takeher home and her father said, "Corrie, when we take the train, when do I giveyou your ticket? Do you get it after I purchase it? Do you get it as we walkto the platform? No, it is my burden to carry for you until right before weboard, then you are ready and the time is right for you to hold your ticket andgive it to the man." So it is with our father- the burden is not yours untilright when you need it- Jesus is carrying your court date, paperwork, andadoption now. He always carries our burdens and yet I've seen this last weekhow I've tried and tried to take it back from him. I've struggled against himover carrying those burdens and after reaching a point of exhaustion Rob and Irealized it wasn't our time to carry "the ticket". This is one of my hardestlessons in life to remember and walk out- I hope sharing my struggle here can offer some encouragement for you. We had a prayer time at our house last nightwith friends & family for our court date and we all prayed for your date to comesoon and for the Spirit to encourage and comfort you as you wait in an "unknown"point- it is so hard to not know what is going on and if there is progress or not.
How wonderfully true is that? So, on my way to work I prayed for God to take this burden from me. I wanted to be set free from this anxiety of the waiting game. So far so good! How wonderful that God is strong enough for us to carry these heavy burdens we have. An He doesn't complain!
So for you, I pray you will give God your burdens - all of them. Let your heart be free and clear from all that clouds it. Let Him be your like and shine brightly in your life as he has shown in ours. Praises to your weekend!
I want to sharesomething that has helped me often in these times- do you remember Corrie TinBoom who lived in Amsterdam and helped rescue Jews during WW II? She asked herfather once, as a child, how she would know she was ready for the Lord to takeher home and her father said, "Corrie, when we take the train, when do I giveyou your ticket? Do you get it after I purchase it? Do you get it as we walkto the platform? No, it is my burden to carry for you until right before weboard, then you are ready and the time is right for you to hold your ticket andgive it to the man." So it is with our father- the burden is not yours untilright when you need it- Jesus is carrying your court date, paperwork, andadoption now. He always carries our burdens and yet I've seen this last weekhow I've tried and tried to take it back from him. I've struggled against himover carrying those burdens and after reaching a point of exhaustion Rob and Irealized it wasn't our time to carry "the ticket". This is one of my hardestlessons in life to remember and walk out- I hope sharing my struggle here can offer some encouragement for you. We had a prayer time at our house last nightwith friends & family for our court date and we all prayed for your date to comesoon and for the Spirit to encourage and comfort you as you wait in an "unknown"point- it is so hard to not know what is going on and if there is progress or not.
How wonderfully true is that? So, on my way to work I prayed for God to take this burden from me. I wanted to be set free from this anxiety of the waiting game. So far so good! How wonderful that God is strong enough for us to carry these heavy burdens we have. An He doesn't complain!
So for you, I pray you will give God your burdens - all of them. Let your heart be free and clear from all that clouds it. Let Him be your like and shine brightly in your life as he has shown in ours. Praises to your weekend!
Thursday, May 25, 2006
A new desk!
So, I got my new desk partially today! One step closer to getting the home office ready for the little ones and when I get to work from home (well part-time at home). We are moving our office tomorrow and I get the secretary's desk and a glass shelf. Cool. So tomorrow I will be able to clean house and get the nursery started!
It has been a pretty stressful week this week. It has been really hard to wait for our court date. I found out today a friend got her court date tomorrow. I am so excited for her! I wish ours was soon, but I guess we have to wait more. God knows and God will protect our children and our hearts.
As an update, Nick never did make it to State for tennis. He did so well this year and made it to regionals, he and his doubles partner just couldn't get it together. We all think next year he'll make it. Everyone is so excited for the trip. We are all just wanting to get there.
I have learned a lot about my faith lately. I feel so close to the Lord. He has been my protector through all of this. George's heart is starting to come around and he is a little more sensitive when I get in my "sad zone". I just keep telling myself I am at about the 6 month mark of a pregnancy. It is now starting to get uncomfortable. No, my ankles are swelling, and I don't have cravings, but my heart yearns, I am really tired, and I am already nesting.
Oh, last stupid entry comment. We bought a laminator! I would suggest everyone has a laminator. It is awesome. I put together a scrapbook for the boys and George sent them through. It was awesome!
So, according to George, I am now obsessed with my blog and internet. Maybe he is right. I check email all the time and I constantly check everyone elses blogs. What else can a woman do while waiting for her children to come home? It kills time and makes the days go faster.
It has been a pretty stressful week this week. It has been really hard to wait for our court date. I found out today a friend got her court date tomorrow. I am so excited for her! I wish ours was soon, but I guess we have to wait more. God knows and God will protect our children and our hearts.
As an update, Nick never did make it to State for tennis. He did so well this year and made it to regionals, he and his doubles partner just couldn't get it together. We all think next year he'll make it. Everyone is so excited for the trip. We are all just wanting to get there.
I have learned a lot about my faith lately. I feel so close to the Lord. He has been my protector through all of this. George's heart is starting to come around and he is a little more sensitive when I get in my "sad zone". I just keep telling myself I am at about the 6 month mark of a pregnancy. It is now starting to get uncomfortable. No, my ankles are swelling, and I don't have cravings, but my heart yearns, I am really tired, and I am already nesting.
Oh, last stupid entry comment. We bought a laminator! I would suggest everyone has a laminator. It is awesome. I put together a scrapbook for the boys and George sent them through. It was awesome!
So, according to George, I am now obsessed with my blog and internet. Maybe he is right. I check email all the time and I constantly check everyone elses blogs. What else can a woman do while waiting for her children to come home? It kills time and makes the days go faster.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Authority and Love and God's command
So, have you all ever questioned the authority and "Why are they doing this?" Well, that was what a lot of this weekend was about. I chose an agency to help us in our process of adoption. God chose them as our authority for this process. We followed His plan. The agency has made a decision that has hurt me and a lot of other families to the core. We will not be allowed to visit our children or receive them in the orphanage. Unfortunately they will be brought to us at our hotel. As you can imagine, we were disappointed. At first I wanted to send the "angry" email, but thankfully God stopped me on that. Instead I have prayed so very hard this weekend and cried so many tears over how to handle this. So, please continue to pray for my heart, my agency to change their minds, my children, and the impacts this may have. It is unfortunate that so many families are now bitter toward this agency that we all loved so much just last week. I have researched so many orphanages and they to have these "hiccups".
So what does all this mean? I was reminded by God through all of this that we are to follow our authority. 1 Peter talks about who we are to obey and follow.
1 Peter 1:16-17 F- or the Scriptures say, "You must be holy because I am holy. And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favorites. He will judge or reward you according to what you do. So you must live in reverent fear of him during your time as "foreigners in the land."" - We are to follow Christ and be like Christ in all we do. Let us be holy in our decisions and actions. We are not here to be compared to other people nor are we here to compare their actions to "what we would have done". We are here to support, love and pray over.
1 Peter 2:13-1 - 13 For the Lord's sake, respect all human authority—whether the king as head of state, or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honor those who do right. - God appoints our authorities to us. My agency is the authority on the matter of our adoption, my boss is my authority at work, my husband is my authority at home. I am to be submissive to them and respect them. However, that does not mean I must bow down to them. That is reserved for the everlasting King - God the Father, Christ the Son, Spirit the Counselor. I am able to offer my advice to them, though.
1 Peter 3:8-12 - Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it. For the Scriptures say,"If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil." - So for now I have to hold to God's command and His promise. In the end I will get my children and I will love them and they will love me. This is a minor hiccup in our process, and one day it probably won't matter. I love my children and meeting them in a hotel room or a foster home, I will love them no less. There are still so many things to experience in their country outside of the home.
Either way our agency decides, I want to do all out of love. I want everything to be Godly and what is right only for our children. Please pray for the right outcome in this new road we are on.
So what does all this mean? I was reminded by God through all of this that we are to follow our authority. 1 Peter talks about who we are to obey and follow.
1 Peter 1:16-17 F- or the Scriptures say, "You must be holy because I am holy. And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favorites. He will judge or reward you according to what you do. So you must live in reverent fear of him during your time as "foreigners in the land."" - We are to follow Christ and be like Christ in all we do. Let us be holy in our decisions and actions. We are not here to be compared to other people nor are we here to compare their actions to "what we would have done". We are here to support, love and pray over.
1 Peter 2:13-1 - 13 For the Lord's sake, respect all human authority—whether the king as head of state, or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honor those who do right. - God appoints our authorities to us. My agency is the authority on the matter of our adoption, my boss is my authority at work, my husband is my authority at home. I am to be submissive to them and respect them. However, that does not mean I must bow down to them. That is reserved for the everlasting King - God the Father, Christ the Son, Spirit the Counselor. I am able to offer my advice to them, though.
1 Peter 3:8-12 - Finally, all of you should be of one mind. Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude. Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it. For the Scriptures say,"If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil." - So for now I have to hold to God's command and His promise. In the end I will get my children and I will love them and they will love me. This is a minor hiccup in our process, and one day it probably won't matter. I love my children and meeting them in a hotel room or a foster home, I will love them no less. There are still so many things to experience in their country outside of the home.
Either way our agency decides, I want to do all out of love. I want everything to be Godly and what is right only for our children. Please pray for the right outcome in this new road we are on.
Friday, May 19, 2006
August?????
So, why I am still awake at 11:30 is beyond me. So much has happened this week, I am just at a loss. We might not be able to travel now until at least August. It is nobody's fault, it is just government, doctors, vacations, etc. Please pray we get a quick court date and travel date. God can create this miracle for us and all the other families waiting.
Tomorrow I will be helping out at an adoption conference. I was asked to speak at one of the workshops on Ethiopian adoption. Pray it goes well.
Nick and partner didn't make it to state. He was REALLY disappointed, but there is still next year!
I best be getting to bed so I can have a good day.
Tomorrow I will be helping out at an adoption conference. I was asked to speak at one of the workshops on Ethiopian adoption. Pray it goes well.
Nick and partner didn't make it to state. He was REALLY disappointed, but there is still next year!
I best be getting to bed so I can have a good day.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Wide-Eyed enthusiasm
So, we are Amazing Race junkies and something one of the hippies said last night really struck home. He said he lives everyday with "wide-eyed enthusiasm". So what does that mean? To me, to pray every morning for God's grace on my heart and actions. To love being alive and appreciate what have I have. To be enthusiastic even in trials. To know that I am being molded by God in what I am going through. To be child-like and take everything in as if it were brand new and glorious. God sees us this way. We are His children and He laughs as we laugh, cries when we cry, and loves us even when we don't deserve it.
There is so much going on right now, I could just hole up and become depressed. Death, murder, court dates, family stresses, kids, work, etc. But you know, without them, I would see God's work in each situation. The death that brought a family together and prayed for the one who caused the accident. The murder who brought him to his knees for help and salvation. The waiting and waiting for a court date in Ethiopia that brought peace and mercy to my heart. The family stuff that I can only give to God because He is the only one to understand. Kids who are denying Christ but I know will be called to him. Work which just seems to get in the way with everything.
Then, I remember how Christ lived and all He suffered. He ministered for years with nothing in His life except God's backing, grace, compassion, mercy and love. Why do I think that God can't take my burdens from me and protect me? He created the earth and all that is in it, He raises the dead, and most importantly He is my everything. He loves me so much, why shouldn't I love him! I have so much in my life - husband, kids (who don't do drugs or drink), house, job, awesome church, friends, animals who are so darn cute, a car, food, money, movie theaters, tvs, books, bibles, freedom, and above all God.
So, each day remember your life with wide-eyed enthusiasm. Each day is glorious and brought to us by God. Only He knows what is in store for us, but it is wonderful!
P.S. - Our court date should be in the next month and then travel about 2 months after. So July/August. Pray for an earlier date!
There is so much going on right now, I could just hole up and become depressed. Death, murder, court dates, family stresses, kids, work, etc. But you know, without them, I would see God's work in each situation. The death that brought a family together and prayed for the one who caused the accident. The murder who brought him to his knees for help and salvation. The waiting and waiting for a court date in Ethiopia that brought peace and mercy to my heart. The family stuff that I can only give to God because He is the only one to understand. Kids who are denying Christ but I know will be called to him. Work which just seems to get in the way with everything.
Then, I remember how Christ lived and all He suffered. He ministered for years with nothing in His life except God's backing, grace, compassion, mercy and love. Why do I think that God can't take my burdens from me and protect me? He created the earth and all that is in it, He raises the dead, and most importantly He is my everything. He loves me so much, why shouldn't I love him! I have so much in my life - husband, kids (who don't do drugs or drink), house, job, awesome church, friends, animals who are so darn cute, a car, food, money, movie theaters, tvs, books, bibles, freedom, and above all God.
So, each day remember your life with wide-eyed enthusiasm. Each day is glorious and brought to us by God. Only He knows what is in store for us, but it is wonderful!
P.S. - Our court date should be in the next month and then travel about 2 months after. So July/August. Pray for an earlier date!
Monday, May 15, 2006
Mother's Day, Garage Sale, Updates
What a weekend! We had our garage sale and I still haven't caught up on sleep. I just found out today I will be putting together a workshop on Ethiopia at an adoption seminar this weekend. Pray for me and the right words.
I also had a great Mother's Day. They got me a really cool diaper bag, Strawberry Shortcake stuff, windchimes, sweat tarts, and a beautiful watch. It fits perfect and the diaper bag will be great for 3 children!
Not much on the adoption front, business as usual. Just getting everything ready for when we have to travel to get our babies. I met so many mothers from my neighborhood this weekend it was wonderful. I also met a little 5 yr old boy up the street who just started playing hockey. I introduced him to my hubby who may be his future coach. He was pretty excited.
Well, not much here, just catching up on season finales (I know we are tv junkies). TIVO will do that to you. I am excited to have kids so we can't watch tv as much.
Blessings to you all. Remember and hold to God's love, His compassion, His grace, and His Mercy.
I also had a great Mother's Day. They got me a really cool diaper bag, Strawberry Shortcake stuff, windchimes, sweat tarts, and a beautiful watch. It fits perfect and the diaper bag will be great for 3 children!
Not much on the adoption front, business as usual. Just getting everything ready for when we have to travel to get our babies. I met so many mothers from my neighborhood this weekend it was wonderful. I also met a little 5 yr old boy up the street who just started playing hockey. I introduced him to my hubby who may be his future coach. He was pretty excited.
Well, not much here, just catching up on season finales (I know we are tv junkies). TIVO will do that to you. I am excited to have kids so we can't watch tv as much.
Blessings to you all. Remember and hold to God's love, His compassion, His grace, and His Mercy.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Tennis, Kids, Sale, Devotions
Well, Nick came back from districts today. He and his partner took 1st place in doubles! We are so proud of them. They go to regionals Friday and Saturday next week. We are blessed because they will be here! So we get to go watch! Congrats boys!
So, we accepted a new referral for a 3 yr old boy. He is sooo adorable. Once we have our court date (soon I hope) I will be able to post the pictures because they will be ours! His name is Alemayehu but we will call him Giovanni (thanks to my hubby's Italian roots). So that makes us at a 19 yr old boy, 19 yr old boy, 16 yr old boy, 5 yr old Ethiopian boy (Caleb), 3 yr old Ethiopian boy (Giovanni), 5 month old Ethiopian girl (Sophia). Wowie! We are so blessed! God is so good and He has totally taken care of everything!
So in about 5 more hours (after napping for about 2) our garage sale will start. Well, we will continue getting ready for it and in about 6.5 hours the early birds will come. The sale was on the news, in the paper, and in a special garage sale section. It is definitely the talk of the town! Hopefully God will double everything we get. If He can create the earth, raise men from the dead, He can definitely multiply our sale.
I have decided I am going to try to post regular devotions as I study God's word and pray and let everyone know how blessed we are in this world and what I see God doing in my life. Tonight at church our pastor was discussing the effect the "Da Vinci Code" has on our society and how as Christians we are to be prepared for this battle. In Ephesian 6:11-12 says "Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places." We are at war - a spiritual war. As we face so many bad things against us, we must hold tight to God's promises. I pray you continue reading and learn how to protect ourselves in this battle. We are to have God's word in our hearts and rebuke the enemy when he tries to place doubt in our minds. I know this week I really struggled with a lot doubt. I doubted if we would EVER get our kids, if we would EVER get a court date, if we would EVER get ahead. Well, I finally realized that it doesn't matter. God has everything handled. He'll take care of it. He isn't delegating these tasks to me to figure out, He has already done that. So let us all stand firm in our Faith and put on the shield of salvation and hold tight to the sword of the spirit. Let us each battle everyday because we know that in the end we win the war - in fact we already have through Christ's blood.
So, we accepted a new referral for a 3 yr old boy. He is sooo adorable. Once we have our court date (soon I hope) I will be able to post the pictures because they will be ours! His name is Alemayehu but we will call him Giovanni (thanks to my hubby's Italian roots). So that makes us at a 19 yr old boy, 19 yr old boy, 16 yr old boy, 5 yr old Ethiopian boy (Caleb), 3 yr old Ethiopian boy (Giovanni), 5 month old Ethiopian girl (Sophia). Wowie! We are so blessed! God is so good and He has totally taken care of everything!
So in about 5 more hours (after napping for about 2) our garage sale will start. Well, we will continue getting ready for it and in about 6.5 hours the early birds will come. The sale was on the news, in the paper, and in a special garage sale section. It is definitely the talk of the town! Hopefully God will double everything we get. If He can create the earth, raise men from the dead, He can definitely multiply our sale.
I have decided I am going to try to post regular devotions as I study God's word and pray and let everyone know how blessed we are in this world and what I see God doing in my life. Tonight at church our pastor was discussing the effect the "Da Vinci Code" has on our society and how as Christians we are to be prepared for this battle. In Ephesian 6:11-12 says "Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places." We are at war - a spiritual war. As we face so many bad things against us, we must hold tight to God's promises. I pray you continue reading and learn how to protect ourselves in this battle. We are to have God's word in our hearts and rebuke the enemy when he tries to place doubt in our minds. I know this week I really struggled with a lot doubt. I doubted if we would EVER get our kids, if we would EVER get a court date, if we would EVER get ahead. Well, I finally realized that it doesn't matter. God has everything handled. He'll take care of it. He isn't delegating these tasks to me to figure out, He has already done that. So let us all stand firm in our Faith and put on the shield of salvation and hold tight to the sword of the spirit. Let us each battle everyday because we know that in the end we win the war - in fact we already have through Christ's blood.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Life is never dull
Well, whoever said life is dull - WHATEVER! :)
We just got an email telling us our 3 yr old son, Yuranos, is not up for adoption. Although sad about this news, I am extrememly happy to find out his mother is alive and wants to keep him! So, we have 4 choices:
1) Just take 2 kids (yeah right, we already have the clothes for a 3 yr old)
2 - 4) Pick between 3 available 3 yrs olds.
Wow, I think this is the biggest hang up we have had! So, please pray we will have wisdom in our decision on chosing one of the 3.
We just got an email telling us our 3 yr old son, Yuranos, is not up for adoption. Although sad about this news, I am extrememly happy to find out his mother is alive and wants to keep him! So, we have 4 choices:
1) Just take 2 kids (yeah right, we already have the clothes for a 3 yr old)
2 - 4) Pick between 3 available 3 yrs olds.
Wow, I think this is the biggest hang up we have had! So, please pray we will have wisdom in our decision on chosing one of the 3.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Another Wednesday gone
So, as a quick update for everyone. We are still waiting on a court date. I am thinking it will probably be in 2 weeks. From there we will wait 4- 6 weeks for our embassy appointment. Then we travel! I am so excited to pick up my children. This next 2 months can't go by quick enough!
We are having our garage sale this weekend. I pray for good weather and lots of business. I am so choked up at all the donations we have gotten. Our shed is full, our basement is full and you can barely get around our living room! So stop by and help our adoption fundraiser! And if you got stuff for us, you only have days left to bring it by!
Nick is on his way to districts for doubles. He didn't make it for singles, so we'll see tomorrow afternoon how he does. He is so excited!
I just want to thank everyone for all your support and prayers. I have seen God's love and glory through you all. He is so awesome and merciful. My life is so full of love for you all. My babies are going to have such a wonderful and full life thanks to you all. We love you!
We are having our garage sale this weekend. I pray for good weather and lots of business. I am so choked up at all the donations we have gotten. Our shed is full, our basement is full and you can barely get around our living room! So stop by and help our adoption fundraiser! And if you got stuff for us, you only have days left to bring it by!
Nick is on his way to districts for doubles. He didn't make it for singles, so we'll see tomorrow afternoon how he does. He is so excited!
I just want to thank everyone for all your support and prayers. I have seen God's love and glory through you all. He is so awesome and merciful. My life is so full of love for you all. My babies are going to have such a wonderful and full life thanks to you all. We love you!
Monday, May 08, 2006
Prayer, Prayer and more Prayer!
Well, another week by and closer to our delivery date! I just can't believe that in 2 months or less our babies will be home! We are frantically trying to get ready for our most fabulous garage sale this weekend. We have gotten sooo many donations and I know more are coming! Thank you and bless you all! I pray God will send us car after car who doesn't want to bicker on pricing and is willing to pay a little more for a good cause!
We are still waiting to hear about when the boys will be transferred to Addis and when our court date is. I think this is worse than waiting for our referral! Well, nah. At least I have a precious picture to look at of one of my babies. I just can't wait to hold them and love on them! We have gotten so many positive comments back from families who are just back or who are there right now. I am so relieved our kids are being cared for so wonderfully.
Nick is travelling to Clarkston tonight for districts for Tennis. He is pretty excited. Kev and Malchi are still plugging away at work and fighting us every step of the way on chores! They are all such great kids. I couldn't have been more blessed. They are trustworthy and for the most part respectful of us. I just can't wait to see them as big brothers!
Hubby and I continue to work, work, work. We have so much to do and so little time! I know God will be creating some miracles on us to keep us going! I guess a 30 hour plane ride there will allow us to catch up on sleep and reading! Coming back I know we won't be able to!
Thank you all for your prayers. We ask you continue to pray for all our children's safety, a quick court date and approval (then I can post pictures!), an embassy appt on June 13th or 20th, great success on the garage sale, and continued financial support to help cover some of our costs for the adoption. We are so blessed in our lives and we love you all so much!
We are still waiting to hear about when the boys will be transferred to Addis and when our court date is. I think this is worse than waiting for our referral! Well, nah. At least I have a precious picture to look at of one of my babies. I just can't wait to hold them and love on them! We have gotten so many positive comments back from families who are just back or who are there right now. I am so relieved our kids are being cared for so wonderfully.
Nick is travelling to Clarkston tonight for districts for Tennis. He is pretty excited. Kev and Malchi are still plugging away at work and fighting us every step of the way on chores! They are all such great kids. I couldn't have been more blessed. They are trustworthy and for the most part respectful of us. I just can't wait to see them as big brothers!
Hubby and I continue to work, work, work. We have so much to do and so little time! I know God will be creating some miracles on us to keep us going! I guess a 30 hour plane ride there will allow us to catch up on sleep and reading! Coming back I know we won't be able to!
Thank you all for your prayers. We ask you continue to pray for all our children's safety, a quick court date and approval (then I can post pictures!), an embassy appt on June 13th or 20th, great success on the garage sale, and continued financial support to help cover some of our costs for the adoption. We are so blessed in our lives and we love you all so much!
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Preparations, Prayer, and Plenty
Well, the preparations now start. We went to Wal-Mart (eww, I know for some) and started buying baby stuff. SCARY. What type of bottle, what size clothes, is there a certain type of pacifer, what diapers, what about diaper rash creme? I have so much learning to do. We need to meet with our doctor for any meds, get money in order, make reservations, etc.
Now, we pray. We pray for a quick travel time. I pray for the right airlines. I pray for a good hotel room to house 8 people! I pray for safety for us and our new babies. I pray for safe and somewhat uneventful trip home. I praise God for this life I have been given to care for.
We have so much in this country and no one can even fathom what it is like in our children's birth country. They only get one meal a day. They walk 45 minutes just to go to school. They have parasites, scabies, disease, and death. I know just our babies are safe with God on our side and theirs.
Now, we pray. We pray for a quick travel time. I pray for the right airlines. I pray for a good hotel room to house 8 people! I pray for safety for us and our new babies. I pray for safe and somewhat uneventful trip home. I praise God for this life I have been given to care for.
We have so much in this country and no one can even fathom what it is like in our children's birth country. They only get one meal a day. They walk 45 minutes just to go to school. They have parasites, scabies, disease, and death. I know just our babies are safe with God on our side and theirs.
Monday, May 01, 2006
It's a Girl ... and a Boy ... and a Boy!
We got the ever so awaited phone call today at 1:15 pacific time! We have a girl! She is 3 months old and soooo beautiful! She was abandoned and brought to CWA through an orphanage in Addis. I will post her picture as soon as we have our court date and she is officially ours.
So, our next step is we need our I71-H from INS. Once we get this approval, they will schedule a court date for us (typically about 2 weeks). Then once the adoption is finalized CWA sets up our embassy appointment and we make plan reservations! The embassy appointment is typically 3-4 weeks after the court date.
So, of course we need prayers for a letter from INS, a quick court date and embassy appointment, and cheap airfare! There is so much for us to do before we bring our babies home! Painting, garage sale, cleaning, baby showers, ahhhhhh!!!!!!!
Thank you all for your prayers and your support. We couldn't have made it without God and all your prayers lifted up to Him. Our children also thank you.
Blessings,
Sandra
So, our next step is we need our I71-H from INS. Once we get this approval, they will schedule a court date for us (typically about 2 weeks). Then once the adoption is finalized CWA sets up our embassy appointment and we make plan reservations! The embassy appointment is typically 3-4 weeks after the court date.
So, of course we need prayers for a letter from INS, a quick court date and embassy appointment, and cheap airfare! There is so much for us to do before we bring our babies home! Painting, garage sale, cleaning, baby showers, ahhhhhh!!!!!!!
Thank you all for your prayers and your support. We couldn't have made it without God and all your prayers lifted up to Him. Our children also thank you.
Blessings,
Sandra
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Not in God's time ... Yet
Well, we did hear there are currently no girls up for adoption. At least the babies. We are holding very strongly to God's promise and His call to us. It has been hard knowing we still have to wait, but I know it will be worth it. The "package" only contained boys. I just know there is a girl out there for us. I am so happy for the families who have their little boys. How exciting. I just wish we could travel with them!
Someday soon I will be able to post pictures of my little ones and you can see all their beautiful faces! Pray for courage to make it through each day and that we are motivated to get the house ready!
On a happier note, we are getting ready for a garage sale in a couple of weeks. Hopefully we will make some money to cut down on the cost. Anyone with donations is more than welcome to bring them by!
Blessings to you all!
Someday soon I will be able to post pictures of my little ones and you can see all their beautiful faces! Pray for courage to make it through each day and that we are motivated to get the house ready!
On a happier note, we are getting ready for a garage sale in a couple of weeks. Hopefully we will make some money to cut down on the cost. Anyone with donations is more than welcome to bring them by!
Blessings to you all!
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Tomorrow maybe?
Another day almost over. I am excited because I think we get to spend a family night together! Who knew! Nick won his tennis match today - phew the second set was close. They are getting ready to go to divisionals to compete to hopefully go to state.
Still no news on the girl front. I do know that God is just not ready to give her up yet. She is there and we are here and He knows that, so we wait. There has been so much going on today. We heard back from one of the families that just returned with their twins and they are soooo sick. One of them almost didn't make it. The conditions in Ethiopia are so horrible. I just can't even describe some of the stories I have read! I just pray God will take care of the faithful and lead those who don't know him, to him!
Thank you all for you continued prayers. It is only through God's grace and mercy that I make it through each day. He is so faithful to us even when we are unfaithful to him. It was through Christ's blood that I can be hear today asking for prayer and for forgiveness. Praise God!
Still no news on the girl front. I do know that God is just not ready to give her up yet. She is there and we are here and He knows that, so we wait. There has been so much going on today. We heard back from one of the families that just returned with their twins and they are soooo sick. One of them almost didn't make it. The conditions in Ethiopia are so horrible. I just can't even describe some of the stories I have read! I just pray God will take care of the faithful and lead those who don't know him, to him!
Thank you all for you continued prayers. It is only through God's grace and mercy that I make it through each day. He is so faithful to us even when we are unfaithful to him. It was through Christ's blood that I can be hear today asking for prayer and for forgiveness. Praise God!
Monday, April 24, 2006
What a day
Well, we are still in waiting mode. Only about another hour and Tracy will be gone for the day and then we have to wait one more. I didn't realize how stressed I would be today. I knew we wouldn't hear, but I still had hope. It is great knowing I have other mom's who feel the same. I was really hoping to hear from either Tracy or Michelle today. Oh well. That means that God has picked the perfect girl for us and she is not ready yet to come home. I am getting nervous too about airline availability. There are a lot of families that are having trouble finding open flights.
On another note, we heard from UCIS Yakima unit. Angela (bless her for her patience and help) said there are a few things we need to send to clear up some stuff and then they can proceed. Hopefully George gets his part done quickly so we can hear back!
Other than the anxiety and stress, things are still going along. Nick is starting to get summer fever because it has gotten so nice. School will be over soon and he will hopefully get a job and his driver license!
I hope and pray your day is going well, and keep posted! I will let you know when we know!
On another note, we heard from UCIS Yakima unit. Angela (bless her for her patience and help) said there are a few things we need to send to clear up some stuff and then they can proceed. Hopefully George gets his part done quickly so we can hear back!
Other than the anxiety and stress, things are still going along. Nick is starting to get summer fever because it has gotten so nice. School will be over soon and he will hopefully get a job and his driver license!
I hope and pray your day is going well, and keep posted! I will let you know when we know!
Sunday, April 23, 2006
A new week ...
What a great weekend! I got to meet some of the other adoptive families. We had a training at Kingdom Kids. It was so great to meet everyone. I am pretty exhausted right now, and I just want rest, but instead we have things to do. As you can see nothing new has happened. Tomorrow is the day all of us waiting for referrals has been waiting for. We are all hoping the package made it to Tracy, but I doubt it will. I talked with my case worker and she didn't think it had come yet. Oh well, we are still waiting on our immigration paperwork, so either way we have to wait. God is definitely teaching us patience. We still have so much to do here at the house. We are all getting excited to go to Ethiopia and experience some things in life we never have.
Well, I better get back to getting something done. I think we are having pizza for dinner and going to play a board game.
Well, I better get back to getting something done. I think we are having pizza for dinner and going to play a board game.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Still waiting and holding to promises...
I just found out today our baby boys aren't in Addis yet. I just sent out my care package to a friend who will be travelling May 2nd. I hope they are there by the time she gets there! I know this will all be over soon. I have so much support and understanding from my adoptive moms, I couldn't imagine life without them! I hold strong to God's promise to me for these children. Habakkuk 3:18 - "I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make me as surefooted as a deer and bring me safely over the mountains." This is so true! I rejoice in my stress and fears, it means I have something to look forward to.
Months ago, God promised me His three children. It has been great to see His plan unfold. I hold steadfast to His love!
Months ago, God promised me His three children. It has been great to see His plan unfold. I hold steadfast to His love!
Monday, April 17, 2006
Operation Care Packages
Finally, we get to make contact with our boys! I just put together 2 care packages for Gela and Yuranos. They have crayons, coloring books, a scrapbook of us, an outfit, stuffed animal, chapstick, cars and a note from us. It was so fun, I just wish I had more room! Blessings on Sharon for bringing it for me.
I keep praying we will hear soon. We are going on 5 weeks and still no word. We will let you all know soon enough!
I keep praying we will hear soon. We are going on 5 weeks and still no word. We will let you all know soon enough!
Friday, April 14, 2006
Labor Pains of Love
A wise woman (mom) once told me (last night) that the wait we have for our referral is like the last month of pregnancy. You want it over with and you just want to know. Well, that is how we feel right now. We just want to know. We want to move on to the next step. I don't know what pregnancy, labor or any of that is like, but I do know I love something unseen. God has put these babies on my heart and they are born of my heart. It does not matter that they won't look like us (hello have any of you seen my snow white skin?), they will most likely act like us and be so overly loved like us. Kevin, Nick and Malcom are not mine, but I love them like I did.
Labor is not just giving birth it is years of raising your kids!
Labor is not just giving birth it is years of raising your kids!
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Now we know
Well, we found out today that we won't know about a baby girl referral until around April 24th. The package didn't make it by today. Sooooooo the CWA case worker won't get to it until she gets back from Washington D.C. on April 24th. Then she has to go through the package and determine who gets who. That just sounds funny - Raskells this one, Walatkas this one, oh Ewings this one. Ha! Maybe she will do rock paper scissors! Boy, I sure hope God has a sense of humor! I just wish she had an assistant to open the package or something! I don't think there is anything to do but pray and pray and pray. Only God knows what will happen.
At least now we know and I can enjoy next week and not check email every 5 minutes or be afraid I will miss a phone call or something. Now I can not stress so much and actually enjoy my family. Maybe George won't be so grumpy with me, either. :)
At least now we know and I can enjoy next week and not check email every 5 minutes or be afraid I will miss a phone call or something. Now I can not stress so much and actually enjoy my family. Maybe George won't be so grumpy with me, either. :)
Baby girls and Our most High Son
On the eve of the day our most precious Son was crucified, I pray for a special Easter blessing. It has been a hard day praying and waiting. I keep to God's promise, I just wish it was sooner than later. I am so excited for the families that just received notice they were accepted in the Ethiopian courts for their babies and I am reminded my time will be soon. God is awesome and gracious to my prayers and worries.
Please pray for us that we hear word soon! Our little Ethiopian boys are waiting for us and the Raskells are waiting to hear about their third addition - our baby girl!
Love,
Sandra
Please pray for us that we hear word soon! Our little Ethiopian boys are waiting for us and the Raskells are waiting to hear about their third addition - our baby girl!
Love,
Sandra
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Break Time - Care Packages
I have a little bit of a break in my emotions today. I get to make a care package for my boys! I don't know what I want to put in it, but it gives me something to think about while we wait. I am thinking a tshirt for them, bubbles, toothbrushes, chapstick, scrapbook of the family, and a little toy. Any suggestions? I love having so many families helping me deal with all my emotions and to pray for us.
Satan has been on overtime this week. Thanks Mike for reminding me of what this week is about. No wonder Satan is afraid! Easter is going to be awesome - I can tell!
I am excited for next week when a lot of the adoptive families will be here for a training. It will be nice to meet them and learn more about them.
I am watching the Amazing Race and yes Lake and Michelle are last! I can't believe I get so caught up in this show. I am hoping the hippies win, but we will see next week!
I am heading to Montana on Friday. I am pretty excited to see everyone. I talked to Mom tonight and she was doing ok after the surgery. I am curious to see how she is tomorrow.
I can't believe it is already mid-April. We are going on our 2nd month in the process but it feels like we are years into. It is so hard waiting to find out who are baby girl is. I just want to see pictures of her precious face and buy her little clothes. I talked with Michelle today and it sounds like our boys should be moved to Addis soon. Then with each family that travels they can send us more pictures and it can be all the more real. She told me she would call the moment she got our referral. I really pray it will be this week and she will be our Easter present!
Hope you all have a blessed day!
Satan has been on overtime this week. Thanks Mike for reminding me of what this week is about. No wonder Satan is afraid! Easter is going to be awesome - I can tell!
I am excited for next week when a lot of the adoptive families will be here for a training. It will be nice to meet them and learn more about them.
I am watching the Amazing Race and yes Lake and Michelle are last! I can't believe I get so caught up in this show. I am hoping the hippies win, but we will see next week!
I am heading to Montana on Friday. I am pretty excited to see everyone. I talked to Mom tonight and she was doing ok after the surgery. I am curious to see how she is tomorrow.
I can't believe it is already mid-April. We are going on our 2nd month in the process but it feels like we are years into. It is so hard waiting to find out who are baby girl is. I just want to see pictures of her precious face and buy her little clothes. I talked with Michelle today and it sounds like our boys should be moved to Addis soon. Then with each family that travels they can send us more pictures and it can be all the more real. She told me she would call the moment she got our referral. I really pray it will be this week and she will be our Easter present!
Hope you all have a blessed day!
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Still waiting....
As a fellow adoptive mama said today...
no
nada
zip
zilch
nothing....
Still waiting...
and waiting...
and waitin...
Some days are better than others. Yesterday and today the worst. It is hard to explain to a "non-adopter" how hard the wait is. One moment you want to scream and the next you want to curl up and cry. I focus really hard on God's choice in babies. He is handpicking her right now. In fact if I got to chose, she wouldn't be my little angel.
I leave Friday to go to Montana to help mom after her surgery. Aside from being excited to see my fam, I get to see Lora and Julz! I miss Montana. I can't wait to take my little ones there to see Yellowstone, go hiking, etc. I love Montana! I also love no tax, we are buying a pool from Costco there this weekend so as to avoid the tax.
Nick did well today in Tennis he won 6-4, 6-4. He plays Mead High School on Thursday.
Kevin and Malcom are still working away being "young adults" enjoying freedom and their friends. Keith - their friend- is leaving to join the Army. Keep him in your prayers!
Well, gotta go pick up the boys' bunk beds! I can't wait to have them home to help me paint!
Keep your eyes posted for good news! I will also be selling tshirts too soon, so keep an eye out for them!
Love you all!
no
nada
zip
zilch
nothing....
Still waiting...
and waiting...
and waitin...
Some days are better than others. Yesterday and today the worst. It is hard to explain to a "non-adopter" how hard the wait is. One moment you want to scream and the next you want to curl up and cry. I focus really hard on God's choice in babies. He is handpicking her right now. In fact if I got to chose, she wouldn't be my little angel.
I leave Friday to go to Montana to help mom after her surgery. Aside from being excited to see my fam, I get to see Lora and Julz! I miss Montana. I can't wait to take my little ones there to see Yellowstone, go hiking, etc. I love Montana! I also love no tax, we are buying a pool from Costco there this weekend so as to avoid the tax.
Nick did well today in Tennis he won 6-4, 6-4. He plays Mead High School on Thursday.
Kevin and Malcom are still working away being "young adults" enjoying freedom and their friends. Keith - their friend- is leaving to join the Army. Keep him in your prayers!
Well, gotta go pick up the boys' bunk beds! I can't wait to have them home to help me paint!
Keep your eyes posted for good news! I will also be selling tshirts too soon, so keep an eye out for them!
Love you all!
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Adoption as God's call
So, I went through some pictures today and thought I would share them with you. Remember, I am about 3 years behind! Things are going ok right now. George and I went kid clothes shopping today at the fairgrounds. It was fun, we found a lot of cute things. I just wish we knew how old the girl is! But God knows and that is all that matters.
Dad came up to bring us our new (used) truck. It has been a great weekend to visit and catch up (eventhough HE kept us up late). :) He heads back tomorrow to Montana to prepare for Mom's surgery.
I heard from Tracy (CWA) that a "package" shoud be here anytime. We will see if our referral is there! I have been talking a lot with some ladies from the program which helps. It is amazing how many of us feel the same! I do want to say one of the moms wrote on her website a piece about adopting. I have included her comments. I agree with what she has to say. Until you go through this, it is hard to understand.
Adoption is NOT Plan B-
People constantly say to us "once this child comes home, you'll get pregnant." I know they are well-meaning so I try not to get upset but here's my opportunity to share some facts that everyone who has said this (or thought this) should know:
First, adoption is not "Plan B." It is a choice to have a family -- just like achieving a pregnancy is. Whether the decision was spawned out of an inability to achieve a pregnancy does not mean that it is a less favorable means of starting a family. It's simply a different course toward the same goal, which is having a child.
Second, you're wrong. Everyone hears stories about the women who get pregnant after adopting because not getting pregnant after an adoption is, well, not exactly "newsworthy." However, statistics show that only 8% of adoptive parents ultimately have a biological child.
Third, please understand that when you say this to an adoptive parent it sounds like you are trying to console us. We, as adoptive parents, are no less thrilled, excited or grateful than a birth parent to have been blessed beyond measure in words by God with the charge of caring for this child (who, though not flesh and blood, is our own).
Simply put, if you placed him in my womb we could not love him more.
Although some of it sounds harsh, I think she is right. Until you go through this process you can't understand what it is like! In George and I's mind we ARE pregnant! We are just giving birth to a 5 yr old boy, a 3 yr old boy and a baby girl all at once. How many of you have 2 or more kids, you manage. Just because we are doing it all at once doesn't mean we can't handle it. There are so many kids out there that need a home, why should we be selfish and stress and worry about when (and if) we will get pregnant. I yearn for my babies and can't wait to bring them home. Will it be stressful, absolutely! Will our lives change? I hope so!
SO, Why adopt? Well. we are called by God to care for all children. So I ask, Why not?
Matt. 25:40 says – The King will reply, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” When we take care of the fatherless, we are caring for God's child. When God speaks, shouldn't we answer his call? I am not saying everyone should adopt. There are many ways to help the orphaned children. Sponsor a child, donate to agencies such as Christian World Adoption, Kingdom Kids (see my links) or your local church. Through help, these children have a chance to survive and to learn about Christ.
Thank you for reading my ramblings. Let me know what you think!
In Christ,
Sandra
Dad came up to bring us our new (used) truck. It has been a great weekend to visit and catch up (eventhough HE kept us up late). :) He heads back tomorrow to Montana to prepare for Mom's surgery.
I heard from Tracy (CWA) that a "package" shoud be here anytime. We will see if our referral is there! I have been talking a lot with some ladies from the program which helps. It is amazing how many of us feel the same! I do want to say one of the moms wrote on her website a piece about adopting. I have included her comments. I agree with what she has to say. Until you go through this, it is hard to understand.
Adoption is NOT Plan B-
People constantly say to us "once this child comes home, you'll get pregnant." I know they are well-meaning so I try not to get upset but here's my opportunity to share some facts that everyone who has said this (or thought this) should know:
First, adoption is not "Plan B." It is a choice to have a family -- just like achieving a pregnancy is. Whether the decision was spawned out of an inability to achieve a pregnancy does not mean that it is a less favorable means of starting a family. It's simply a different course toward the same goal, which is having a child.
Second, you're wrong. Everyone hears stories about the women who get pregnant after adopting because not getting pregnant after an adoption is, well, not exactly "newsworthy." However, statistics show that only 8% of adoptive parents ultimately have a biological child.
Third, please understand that when you say this to an adoptive parent it sounds like you are trying to console us. We, as adoptive parents, are no less thrilled, excited or grateful than a birth parent to have been blessed beyond measure in words by God with the charge of caring for this child (who, though not flesh and blood, is our own).
Simply put, if you placed him in my womb we could not love him more.
Although some of it sounds harsh, I think she is right. Until you go through this process you can't understand what it is like! In George and I's mind we ARE pregnant! We are just giving birth to a 5 yr old boy, a 3 yr old boy and a baby girl all at once. How many of you have 2 or more kids, you manage. Just because we are doing it all at once doesn't mean we can't handle it. There are so many kids out there that need a home, why should we be selfish and stress and worry about when (and if) we will get pregnant. I yearn for my babies and can't wait to bring them home. Will it be stressful, absolutely! Will our lives change? I hope so!
SO, Why adopt? Well. we are called by God to care for all children. So I ask, Why not?
Matt. 25:40 says – The King will reply, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” When we take care of the fatherless, we are caring for God's child. When God speaks, shouldn't we answer his call? I am not saying everyone should adopt. There are many ways to help the orphaned children. Sponsor a child, donate to agencies such as Christian World Adoption, Kingdom Kids (see my links) or your local church. Through help, these children have a chance to survive and to learn about Christ.
Thank you for reading my ramblings. Let me know what you think!
In Christ,
Sandra
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
African Children's Choir
One of the other moms from CWA mentioned the African Children's Choir. Here is their link: www.africanchildrenschoir.com You should check it out! I know we will be going.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Today is our first day as a "blogger". I, like many other adoptive moms, am having a normal stressful, anxious, and emotional day. I found out today that our dossier was approved in Washington D.C. and it is been sent to Ethiopia tomorrow! NOW, we just have to wait for the referral for a baby girl.
For those of you that don't know, George, Kevin, Nick, Malcom and I are going to be bringing home 3 little ones from Ethiopia in the next few months. We have accepted a referral for 2 brothers - Galay 5 yrs old and Yuranos 3 yrs old. No, we haven't figured out what names we want yet, we will be sure to let you know!
Keep posted for future posts and more information about the Raskells!
Sandra
For those of you that don't know, George, Kevin, Nick, Malcom and I are going to be bringing home 3 little ones from Ethiopia in the next few months. We have accepted a referral for 2 brothers - Galay 5 yrs old and Yuranos 3 yrs old. No, we haven't figured out what names we want yet, we will be sure to let you know!
Keep posted for future posts and more information about the Raskells!
Sandra
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