This Grateful Heart

Sharing The Dream

2012-01-16T06:39:00.000-08:00

Today I woke with just one kiddo in the house, the other 2 were having a sleepover at their grandparents house. I had been thinking about this day all weekend. This MLK Day. It has always been a day of appreciation for us, appreciation for a man who showed us all that if you know it's wrong, if it doesn't sit well with your soul, then share it with any and every one who will listen, without violence, use your God given talents to communicate and do something about it. That takes EXTREME courage, and Dr. King paved the road. So this morning, with my little guy in my lap, we pulled up YouTube and listened to Dr. King's speeches. Ty enjoyed the videos, and at times I believe he either thought that we were Skyp-ing with Dr. King or he was joining in and agreeing with the message, he was anxiously sharing his thoughts with the video. I watched and listened, and today I heard his words with new ears. I will not pretend to know what it is like to suffer, for though I haven't walked without obstacles, my hurt is no comparison to those Dr. King felt led to fight for. In his We Shall Overcome speech he says" The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. They have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone." Their Freedom IS Inextricably Bound To Our Freedom...powerful. I couldn't be there then, but I am here now and I know that equality among all of God's Children is still a work in progress, and it is crucial that I continue to recognize it and help to correct it. Nearly one year ago I had the opportunity to meet 10 other families who were led to adopt, all of us from Ethiopia, meeting our sweet black boys and black girls soon to join our families as our sons and daughters. I know that Dr. King, and the others who believed in the message, helped pave our way to them. No doubt about it. I am grateful, beyond words. So here I sat, at 8:30 this morning, with my sweet little boy, his skin darker than mine, approx 230 miles from the location of his assassination, and I am so glad he shared his dream with the world!

"Deep in my heart, I do believe, WE SHALL OVERCOME. And with this faith, we will go out and adjourn the councils of despair, and bring new lite into the dark chambers of pessimism. And we will be able to rise from the fatigue of despair to the bouyancy of hope..and this will be a GREAT America!"

"I have a dream that one day,....little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers."

Love this poem...

2012-01-04T06:11:00.000-08:00

BY E. E. CUMMINGS

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in my heart)
i am never without it(anywhere i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)
i want no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

Summer 2011...

2011-12-31T16:49:00.000-08:00

Before the year ends...thought I'd squeeze in a sweet little summer clip I recently found. Love my little family! More to come soon..and so glad for that promise!

Opry Fun!

2011-12-22T16:39:00.000-08:00

Minute to Win It Christmas!!

2011-12-22T15:51:00.000-08:00

We had a few family friends over and led some friendly competition, Minute to Win It style! I had found a great link to someone's blog that had done this same type of party...so since they were sharing... kind of. I have to tell you, it was the MOST fun! Feel free to hijack the idea and spread a little laughter this weekend with your crew!
Minute to Win It Games (for those who don't know..all Minute to Win It Games are to be competed in one minute..thus the name..aha!):
Balancing Act Objective: Partners try to hang as many ornaments as they can from a yard stick that is balancing on an empty paper towel roll.
Hanging Ornaments Objective: Partners attempt to hang ornaments on a suspended string NOT using their hands at all.
Rudolph Nose Objective: One partner applies Vaseline to their nose while the other comes armed with pompoms and a good aim! Separated by 6 feet or so, the goal is to land a nose on your partner and for the nose to stay there for the remainder of your minute. Our winner won by landing the nose in 14 seconds and keeping it on the rest of the time..way to go Suzanne and Grace! (Another way to play..attach a pompom to a string, have the player put the string in their mouth and attempt to flip the string and land the pompom onto their nose)
Snowball Fun Objective: one person per team plays..toss marshmallows through a wreath, into a bucket (or large bowl)on the other side of the wreath from a distance of 4 feet. We propped a wreath against a baking bowl, set it on a chair and had the players sitting on their knees.
Cookie Face Objective: Place a cookie on the forehead, without using your hands (or any aids) inch the cookie down to your mouth and take a bite..Jenn rocked this one!
Christmas Tree Cup Stack Objective: Using 28 Solo-style cups, player uses one hand to stack cups in a pyramid with a seven cup base. Other hand must be kept behind their back.

We also played:
How well do you know Christmas Carols?
The MC calls out a line from a Christmas Carol with a missing word... the kids really liked this too!
Example: Song: Santa Baby Line: Santa honey, I wanna -----, And really that's not a lot. Answer: Yacht

Here's a fun video of some very competitive friends! Too cute!

Holiday Cheer

2011-12-18T20:18:00.000-08:00

After MONTHS of using a stand-in computer, I think I may have all of the links to start posting again..yay! So much has been happening at our house, I am going to try to get more pictures up soon. Until then..a little holiday sweetness. This was Ty's first encounter with Santa, and he was not at all scared. Brian shot this clip right after they took pics of the kids on Santa's lap and at this point Santa started asking about their wish list. In the background you'll hear a fan of Ty's, Olivia. I'm sure Ty will get that sippy cup she is so concerned about! It was a great day spent at the Opryland Hotel with our sweet family and friends.

Post Adoption Report #2 is due!

2011-08-23T05:45:00.000-07:00

This week we meet with our adoption counselor for our Second Post Adoption Report. These reports are required to be completed every 3 months for the first year, then once a year until he is 18 years old. The report is sent to our placing agency, then forward to the Ethiopian agencies. We understand the importance of the follow ups and are glad to comply. Any chance we can have to brag about our happy little guy!

Here are a few pics we will be sending with our report, just wish I could include the stories that go along with them:

Ty enjoying a little rest on our tour of the Chattanooga Aquarium. Obviously, he never really 'rested'!

Wish I could send a video of him swimming, he loves the water so! I'd also like to send a thank you note to the nannies...their speedy baths didn't include shielding the eyes or carefully pouring water over their heads...and Ty has NO problem with the water on his face or in his eyes. Such a gift...wonder if they know that?

We've moved from cars to trains. He saw this shirt at Target and began crying as we pulled away from it. Between tears and little gasps of "ChooChoo" I was quick to back track and buy that boy his shirt!

Now we have to hide the shirt or he'll wear it every day!

The Roy clan enjoying an afternoon together. When Brian comes home all of the kids faces light up, and Ty now says "Dada or Dad" and runs with open arms to him. I don't know who I'm happier for!

My dad helped me to realize my heart's dreams, my husband is protector of my heart and my son (and daughters) fill my heart daily. He is momma's boy right now, and that's ok with me.

This is his 'no...I didn't just put my truck in your pitcher of water' look. Yes..that is a slight grin...and yes he's about to run!

Kindergarten Round 2!

2011-08-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Her first day of Kindergarten couldn't come soon enough for my sweet Mallory.
She was smiling before she even opened her eyes that morning!

She was bubbling with excitement!

The classroom has a beautiful Puppet Theater...

that alone was enough to walk through the door for!

Her first full day isn't for another week, but this 'phase in' day was a success! She loved her teacher and made a new friend. She saw 2 of her neighborhood friends on the playground (yay!) and one of the older kids in our neighborhood saw her in the cafeteria and gave her a hug. That, she said, was her favorite part. Thanks Sydney! You made her first day very, very special!

On Friday we invited a few of our neighborhood friends, and Kindergarten students, over for a Painting Party! The kids painted a rocket..they are now the newest Rockets at their school. They had a blast! Thanks to Jo and Les from A Painting Party for the fun! (http://apaintingpartywithlesjo.shutterfly.com/)

So now she's off on her next adventure. It's no surprise of course, we knew we'd get here..but as usual, it's the mama's and daddy's left wishing for one more day. Love this sweet girl!

Ty-Land

2011-08-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to post pics of Ty's room for a while now, 'cause I love it so! My sweet friend Angela took my giraffe ideas and put them on the wall with her talented hand! I had imagined one large giraffe, she thought maybe a pair, Kendall wanted the baby handing the mama a flower, the flower needed to come from someplace so the tree was born! It was a collabrative effort and the result is just as sweet as can be! Around his room are items other friends have gifted him and we treasure them so!

He loves his room, and when he wakes in the morning he looks around for his Choo Choo book (thanks Beth Lockamy!) and points at his giraffe buddies on the walls.

To the right of the mirror is an Orthodox Coptic Cross, used in Ethiopian traditional and religious festivals given to us by the Bingham family as a celebration of our adoption process. Love it! Also on the dresser is a hand sewn giraffe that our friends the Fischers bought in Ethiopia as a gift for his room. And the lamp was purchased in Ethiopia, Brian loved the shade Ethiopian Alphabet. The ceramic shoes were given to Brian's mom when Brian was born. And above the mirror, on the picture frame is the phrase..The moment we saw you, we fell in love. A gift from Cathey Sweeney...one of the first items I hung in his room. I love all of these items!

So many talented friends! Jo Miller created these canvases for our little guy's new room. Perfect for our giraffe theme!

The tree that came to be! See the little branch and leaves in the baby's mouth?? Kendall's contribution, and such a sweet idea. We have had this crib for all three of our babies. There are 3 different sets of teeth marks! The lanterns belonged to the sweet little Schiro boys next door, and they thought they'd look good in Ty's room..and they were right!

Kicking Off Camp

2011-07-10T20:32:00.000-07:00

Day One of Kendall's Summer Camp Adventure!

Carolina Camper

2011-07-09T06:11:00.001-07:00

They're off! Kendall and Brian are on their way to North Carolina where Kendall will have her first camp experience at a 4 day camp on the water. Last night she said to me "Mom, I'm a little nervous." I wanted to say "I'm terrified!" But I didn't. And like her, I know I have nothing to worry about...but worried I will be until she comes home with the same smile illuminating her face. That's just what I'm wired to do. My mother used to hide in the bathroom until my brother and I left the house, she was busy crying. I'm not that bad, though I did call for Kendall to come back to me for one last kiss...after she was half way across the sidewalk. Brian rolled his eyes. It crossed my mind to ask if she was still nervous..did she want to just stay and try this all next year?? But I calmed my inner-Donna (my mom) and blew kisses like a maniac as she walked away. She was smiling. Either happy for her adventure to begin or perhaps her "Oh my gosh, I can't believe she's doing this to me in public" apologetic/embarrassed smile? I love that girl. She is the oldest and again has taken me to a new place I had dreamed about years ago and got to share with her today. She is so independent, she is our family 'pace' car. The youngest are always getting blamed for needing so much attention. But truthfully, it's the oldest who has the show. We are gripping on tight trying to figure out this whole parenting thing, all the while she's living her life and showing us the next progression. Our family learns from her experiences and from our reactions to those experiences. She is what makes us better parents for our other two. Doesn't mean we'll get it right the next time around...but at least Mallory can rest assured it's not our first rodeo and that can either be to her advantage, or not. Who knows what the rules will look like by the time Ty turns 8. I'm guessing Kendall will be the disgruntled older sister declaring "I NEVER got to do that!".

After dropping her off at the airport I came home and laid down (it wasn't even 7:30a!). As I laid there I could remember that sweet little girl at 6 mos old laying in the crook of my arm enjoying a quiet morning in bed with me. She was so intrigued by my voice and would laugh easily and freely. Was that really 8 years ago? Be still my beating heart...I just want to stay here a little longer and remember that smile, that laugh, that sweetness. Have fun sweet girl, I'm cheering you on.

Busy Man...

2011-06-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

What a busy man my sweet husband is! I wonder if he had any idea 15 years ago that his 'dating days' were just beginning? In the last 3 weeks he has taken Kendall to the Princess Ball, he has taken me on 2 separate dates one of which was the celebration of our 15 yr anniversary, and just last weekend he took Mallory on their first "official" date. She was over the top with excitement. Weeks earlier Mallory had pulled on her 'princess' dress and joined her sister and friends before they left for the Princess Ball. That event was sponsored by the Girl Scouts, and Mallory isn't a scout yet so she wasn't able to attend. She wanted to go so badly! A week after the Princess Ball we were eating at our local ChikFilA and the manager was posting flyers for the Daddy and Daughter Date Night. Bingo!! I had heard about this special event from a few friends who took advantage of this last year and knew it would be great fun! Mallory was so excited the day of her 'date', she was beaming from ear to ear! She insisted on new toe nail polish and mascara...yes I know, Diva! She and her dad met her friend Faith and her date at ChikFilA for their 6:30 reservation. The tables were covered with white table cloths, the 'servers' came to the table to take their order. The girls received a token ChikFilA stuffed cow and a carnation. Plus they were treated to a horse drawn carriage ride. (That was Mal's favorite part.) I think Brian loves doing this as much as the girls. I'm not sure if it's because he loves seeing the smiles on their faces and spending the quality time with them or if he knows he's setting the bar way too high for any little boy to come close to succeeding? I'm guessin' it's both! What a great dad and date that man is...so lucky to have him!

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

"It doesn't matter who my father was;

it matters who I remember he was." ~by Anne Sexton

Let us celebrate the caring, strong, inspirational men in our lives today! I am always proud to retell stories of years past with my dad, and my girls love to hear them. Kendall is now 8 years old and she is beginning to have strong memories of times with her dad. I catch her sharing and giggling over those moments with her friends. My dad was always a source of comfort and protection for me and my family. He was, and still is, the voice of reason and calm. He showed us that 1. the adult is always right 2. you can watch t.v. with your eyes closed..dare you to change the channel! 3. potatoes can and should be served with each meal..fried is the best 4. you must finish what you started 5. Don't let them get to you...it's not worth it 6. the white-faced bumble bees don't sting..not at all true!! 7. Good cornbread is all about the pan 8. Courtesy does get you everywhere 9. Pester your kids as much as they do you, and feel free to do the same to their friends. :) 10. Have all your facts before you speak up 11. Actions speak louder than words 12. Sometimes you gotta take one for the team (for 35 years he goes to the ocean with the family and absolutely HATES sand and sun) 13. What your mom don't know won't hurt her (I must admit that was only fun as a kid eating junk for b'fast, but now I'm scared to death of this lesson!!) 14.Don't be afraid to try. 15.Family comes first, always.

So grateful for my dad (and for my mom for choosing him and keeping him!). I can't wait to hear the lessons my kids learn from their dad. My husband is a fantastic father! Love the lessons I continue to learn from both of these wonderful men in my life. Happy Father's Day to them both!

Disturb Us, O Lord...

2011-06-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

When you use Children's Hope International for adoption you are given the gift of a weekly update. These emails include new stats, important changes, informational pieces and motivational quotes or prayers. On March 5, 2010 we were included in the stats for the Families on the Waiting List. At the end of the email was this prayer/poem written by Sir Frances Drake, a 16th Century explorer (aka legal pirate) thought to have written this while out at sea. On January 21, 2011 we left for our first of two trips to Ethiopia. On that Friday the much appreciated email went out as usual. It announced that 10 families would be headed to Ethiopia that weekend...we were one of those familes!..and it ended with the same prayer by Sir Frances Drake. Brian has made a beautiful video documenting our journey to bring home our sweet boy. This prayer meant so much to us, spoke to us directly really..we used in the video and continue to love the words each time we hear it. We have recently been asked to serve on an orphan relief committee and immediately this prayer came to mind again. I think we all can use it in many instances each and every day. The first line is so powerful....

Disturb us, O Lord

when we are too well-pleased with ourselves
when our dreams have come true because we dreamed too little, because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, O Lord

when with the abundance of things we possess,
we have lost our thirst for the water of life
when, having fallen in love with time,
we have ceased to dream of eternity
and in our efforts to build a new earth,
we have allowed our vision of Heaven to grow dim.

Stir us, O Lord

to dare more boldly, to venture into wider seas
where storms show Thy mastery,
where losing sight of land, we shall find the stars.

In the name of Him who pushed back the horizons of our hopes
and invited the brave to follow.
Amen.

Princess Ball 2011

2011-06-11T12:27:00.000-07:00

It's their second year to attend the Girl Scout sponsored Princess Ball and they came home with smiles and stories to share. Brian pays attention to all of the work that went into it..and a lot of work goes into pulling off an outdoor, under the stars, fully catered by local restaurants, music, crafts, games, decorations, volunteers...and the list goes on and on. They hosted over 150 participants this year! Kendall's stories are accompanied with giggles, tales of dancing triumphs and not so groovy moves (rolling her eyes toward her own dance partner), her favorite part of the dinner (desert) and the fun crafts she proudly shows to me. Her feet are aching from her new high heel shoes (of course they aren't high heels..but they do have a heel and that made her LOVE them!) but she doesn't settle down for at least another 45 minutes. I am so happy for them both, and for all of the other dads and daughters who have had this opportunity. Mallory has been wearing a 'party' dress all night, dreaming of her chance to attend the Princess Ball with her Daddy. She has recently proclaimed her destiny to marry her daddy, and live with me. Kendall corrected her, told her she couldn't marry him. He's too old. (hmm...love that logic) And in her older sister wisdom reminded her of one of their favorite neighbors, Ms. Steph, who doesn't have a husband and gets to do whatever she wants..and has 2 dogs. So now... via that conversation...both of my daughters are refusing marriage, and plan to live by themselves and have all the animals they want. Mallory will have a bedroom just for her guinea pigs. Kendall will apparently have to forfeit a house, codes won't allow her to have all the animals she has in mind.

Addis Documentary...lovely

2011-05-12T05:37:00.000-07:00

So excited to share this video! Sam (his video) was at the Ethiopian Guest House during our second trip. Each evening we'd see Sam and Dawit (from Ethiopia) drag in with video equipment slung over their shoulders and exhaustion all over their faces. In the video are pictures of Korah, pictures of the women making the necklaces I wear. Summer and Cory Yates are included, both from Tennessee and making a big impact in the community of Korah. Owner of the Ethiopian Guest House,Dave McIlrath is involved with Korah and set up the necklace project for the women of Korah giving them much needed income. And he spends lots of time, energy and funds raising awareness for the people of Korah and Ethiopia in general. We met Ephrem there too, and he shared with us his soccer program that gets kids off the streets, onto a field and into a team setting. His work is giving children hope. When we were shopping at the Post Office area we were approached by many homeless children. I remember one young boy, about 10 or so, asking us for change. Brian recognized his soccer jersey and asked if he knew Ephrem. The boy did and he was delighted that we knew about his team. He walked with us the rest of the time we were shopping and shared his story with us. He and Brian talked about soccer, Ethiopian and American, and the boy kept asking if we could come and watch him. He was proud of his team and of his involvement. That little boy had something to look forward to on Friday of that week. These are amazing people who inspired us during our journey. They were the richness to our memories. We met others who we now call friends that touched our hearts and who we know we will see again soon. Thanks Sam for creating such a fantastic video..a wonderful representation of the beautiful people of Ethiopia and the powerful ministries stirring the souls and giving hope to all they meet.

Please check it out and after you have viewed it go ahead and click the underlined title below the screen... The City of Addis- A Short Documentary. There is more great footage covering all four of these organizations serving the children, women and orphans of Ethiopia. They need $15,000.00 to complete this project and give these organization the support they need to continue their life changing missions. This project can only be completed if the funds have been raised by June 25, 2011. Important work going on here...I know you'll want to be a part of it!

THIS PROJECT WILL ONLY BE FUNDED IF AT LEAST $15,000 IS PLEDGED BY SATURDAY JUN 25, 3:04PM EDT.
THIS PROJECT WILL ONLY BE FUNDED IF AT LEAST $15,000 IS PLEDGED BY SATURDAY JUN 25, 3:04PM EDT.

The City of Addis - A short documentary from Session 7 Media on Vimeo.

Wearing my Rose colored glasses...

2011-05-08T18:57:00.000-07:00

Today a very dear friend, one of God's finest really, left this life to join her Father in Heaven. Rose (McNish) King was the spark of all things to my childhood memory. She was one of my beloved scout leaders, and those of you who know me well have likely heard me fondly recall the memories of those times. Those three ladies...Rose, Ann and Judy...were the fearless ones. From camping in the thunderstorms, to loading us onto buses for the World's Fair, scaring our socks off at the Bell Witch Cave ...they taught us about the charms of becoming a young woman and reminded us the gifts God bestowed upon us as young women. They didn't take no for an answer, or if they did I never heard of it. We sang carols at the local nursing home and marched in the Christmas parade. We sold cookies like nobody's business and had sleepovers for any reason we could find. Throughout my elementary years these ladies banned together and committed themselves to make a difference in our lives. Our troop was riddled with extreme personalities...shy, overbearing, attentive (not very many), timid, angry, challenged, lonely, fearful, hopeful, animated, goofy, etc. We were all over the place! And boy did we get yelled at! And we loved it. Every minute of it. Rose was a single mother of two very active daughters. The oldest, Kim, was my counterpart for many years. The youngest, Amy was at every scout event we ever had and was all about being front and center. Looking back now I realize that Rose had such deep love for us, she had to because that was A LOT of devotion and persuasion, a lot of late nights and cold nights, a lot of laughing and yellin'! What I know from my own adult scout experience is that you do it for your daughter first..and I have no doubt that everything she did was for her precious daughters.

I will tell you she was a force not to be reckoned with. When she was on, you better step aside. She was God fearing and full of grace. Her fallibility made her more endearing and raised the standard for success in my book. She was the first to bring God to my life. No doubt about it. We prayed at each meeting and used His name each time. I bet a meeting didn't pass without her praising, speaking, teaching, or asking for His help. ( the latter I'm sure she did many times each meeting...we were wild!) She loved God and her girls. It was at the McNish house I found a love for Elvis and Rocky Balboa... Rose put up with our crazy antics and even let us kick her out of her own bed. I'm telling you, she was beautiful. She held her head high and had the confidence of a lady who has seen hard times and knows that Glory is awaiting her arrival. She had suffered the worse loss of all and in that time I'm confident she sought her Father's hand and He led her through the darkness and found the direction she needed to move forward again. She loved her daughters, she was a warrior for them. Mind you, I see her in my child's eye and I always will.

I have not seen her in a while. The last time I do believe was at a grocery store, where she got to meet my husband and my daughter. She was thrilled to see me and meet my family. She hugged me with both arms, held close to her. She was weary, she had just left work and was on her way to assist her grandchildren. She loved them dearly too, in her very Rose way..fiercely.

Today is Mother's Day. Is it more painful to lose a parent on a special holiday? I don't know, but I'm guessing Kim will take some of that Rose instinct and wrap it with grace, she'll comfort others and seek her Father's hand. And He will be there for her. And Rose will be too. On this day one beautiful, fierce, loving and all inspiring woman got to be with both daughters once again and meet the Glory that has awaited her arrival. She has left a smile on my face, a warmth in my heart and yes, of course, a tear in my eye. We love her for her honesty, we love her for her leadership, we love her for her loyalty, we love her for her dedication...we love her. Thank God for her.

Yep...even those...

2011-05-06T19:43:00.000-07:00

Tonight the kiddos had to take a bath..all 3 of them together. Mallory and Ty find themselves splashing together quite a bit, but this was a first for Kendall. Only because she is a shower girl. Kendall asked " Why do people say brown skinned people are black?" I say " That's a good question...some people say it to be unkind, others use it as a poor description, I'm not sure exactly why they are referred to as 'black'. " I go into it a little more with my understanding of history, and how in today's society we refer to 'black' people as black people or African Americans and it is accepted by and large. Isn't it funny...I don't have a good answer for it when it comes right down to it. Frustrating. Truth is I'm not really white either...kinda pink really. Back to the story...

Kendall looks at his feet, "Look at his feet, they aren't brown. Neither are his hands. We have the same hands and feet." I respond "I think that is neat. Plus..he has the cutest little toes ever!" I go on to point out many similarities: We also have the same mouth inside...on cue Ty stuck out his tongue. Our eyes are the same, just a color difference like so many others. Our blood runs red and our heart beats with each breath. " Kendall says: Our fingernails look the same color and shape too." At this point I'm feeling glad to have this dialog with my kiddo. Then Mallory points out "We even have the same colored boogers."

Yep. That too.

Mac Man

2011-05-05T13:59:00.000-07:00

Now this is how you eat some Mac'n Cheese!! Believe it or not, my little guy was NOT a mac fan...actually he just didn't like noodles. Crazy right?

On a whim I decided to cut it up into small pieces. You'll notice the spoon, thought I'd give him the option. Well that was useless!

But the effort was rewarded with a big ol' toothy smile. Love my mac man!

Magical House by Mallory

2011-05-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my middle child (wow..that is the FIRST time I've used that label!!) decided to compose a story. First she found the scissors, then glue. She dug into our stash of papers and found 2 that suited her. She located a pen (that's impressive!) and set down at the kitchen table. In a few minutes she asked for my help. It didn't take long to recognize her art as a yellow house, with 2 windows, glued onto a white sheet of paper with a flower border..presumably the flower garden. She then asked me to write her story for her. And after my 'encouraging' ways (begging), she has allowed me to include it on the blog. I love it because, well because it came from her little creative noggin! And also, if you're in Tennessee (and the other states who have been wracked with rain for 5 weeks...then you will understand completely!!

Magical House by Mallory

When my tear drops I saw a magical thing happen in my house. Everything started floating. And then I started floating. I looked out the window and the trees started floating. And then the flower pots started floating. It was raining and then it stopped. Then it started raining again, and again, and again, and again. And then Kendall came home and she was floating. And then we started watching t.v. and the couch was floating. And then we saw the remote floating and we jumped up and caught it and started watching t.v. And then we watched Arthur. And then the lollipops that we were eating started floating. And then they EXPLODED!! And then we got more lollipops.

The End.

Mallory showing us how to 'hula' the rain away.

Walking Romeo

2011-05-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

This has been a very fun week with the family. My Mother In Law, aka Nina, was here for her first visit with Ty. On Sunday we celebrated our first Easter as a family of 5. Funny...kids don't need any instruction when it comes to Easter Baskets. Ty pulled up to the table, his sisters pointed him in the direction of his and that was all the encouragement he needed. His basket of cars and bubbles, a bunny cup and 2 chocolate bunnies (small ones!) was overturned and inspected in true Ty fashion. Then Monday marked 2 months with Ty. On Wednesday Ty began walking...no baby steps either. He's crossing rooms now! Forget the locks on the lower cabinets! I'm worried about keeping him away from the stovetop knobs..yikes!

This past weekend Ty became quite the Romeo. He loves to kiss, and has the cutest little pucker! He even makes the "mmmm" sounds. His newest favorite food (and ours too) is corn on the cob. He can annihilate some corn! We love it because it keeps him happy and busy during dinner. That will be #1 on my grocery list until he tires of it. Ty and Mallory have a great relationship. Understandable since she spends a lot of time with him. But in the past couple of weeks the relationship with his oldest sister Kendall has really taken off. They roll around on the carpet playing, she picks him up and cuddles him. He loves it! And so does his mama. The family we are building is definitely a work in progress and we are all being rewarded greatly. Tonight Ty found a photo of all of us in an album. He leaned over it, puckered up and said 'mmmm'. We're all in love!

Desiderata~Things to be Desired

2011-04-20T08:56:00.000-07:00

My mother in law has a framed copy of this in her house. Every time we visit I find myself studying it. It is such a beautiful piece...is it a poem? a prayer? a path? I think it is all and I love the sense of hope and peace it brings to my heart. The best part is, each time I read it I am drawn to a different line. As my life changes, as seasons change in my life, there is a line in the Desiderata that speaks to me more clearly than all the rest. I love that.

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender,
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even to the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons;
they are vexatious to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter,
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs,
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals,
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love,
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

We've Come a long way baby...

2011-04-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

I'm re-posting this, hoping the pictures will come through. The original post was to celebrate our first month together, March 28th, 2011.

It was one month ago today that we woke early in anticipation of picking up our son from his transition home and bringing him home with us forever. The day was sunny, much like today. I can remember the streets were crowded with pedestrians and I wondered as I looked out the window if any of the people who looked into our van could guess we were picking up our son, our Ethiopian son? Would they approve? What would they say to me if I could ask.

We were nervous with excitement and scared of the unknown. Our last visit with Ty hadn't been that long ago, would he remember us? Our last visit was many hours spent with a sick little baby boy who only minutes before we were to leave him for the airport decided to gift us with this beautiful, all dimples and sweetness smile. Would he greet us with a smile? Last visit he was confused along with being sick, he cried until he fell asleep. Would he want to play? Could we possibly make him as happy as our hearts so wanted?

Leaving the transition home.

Our first minutes at the guest house. No smiles..but definite curiosity.

That sweet boy was so confused.

Books were his favorite, so we read.

And so today I can say...he smiles at us all of the time. And it is like the sun warming my face and a joyful march in my heart. He reaches for me and I just want to ask him to do it again, again, again. His dad has found his ticklish spots (there are many) and his laughter delights us to no end. He is not afraid of the animals, and if the cat doesn't get afraid of him I'm scared we'll have a cat with patchy fur! He LOVES cars and makes car noises as he pushes anything with a wheel around the house. In the van he makes the same noise, we think if he sees cars he just automatically does it. The girls think he's funny and cute and noisy and all things they should think about their baby brother. Though he's not walking yet he is certainly cruising around the living room. He's got rhythm and loves to sway and bounce and rock to the beat. It's great! Today, when I asked where his nose was, he touched it ...twice. That's a B-I-G deal! He babbles and squeals and can use his eyebrows alone to ask a question. It's only been one month, I swear to you it feels like it's been longer. Not because I am exhausted (though I am most days!), but rather because it just feels so normal. We are cautious to take it one step at a time. He is so willing to go to other people, and we know we must be guarded of our bonding time with him. He has been through 3 caregivers. In his book, that's 3 mothers. He has the capacity to bond, we are certain of it as we have seen it happening with us. I can't wait to experience our relationship in 3 months...1 year...3 years. I can honestly say that my body, heart, mind respond the same way to him as they do to Kendall and Mallory. And that has surprised me. I knew I wanted a son, I knew I wanted Ty as my son, but I really prepared myself for the bonding time to go both ways...he would need time and I would need time. I think it happened on the way back to the U.S. I can remember a feeling of natural response and comfort and protectiveness and love. It just clicked. What an awesome journey we have been on .... and it's only been a month!

Here's to you Ty!

No lack of smiles here...

Daddy's little guy..they share lots of laughs together!

Rutland Fun Run and 5k

2011-04-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

I love this picture...look at everyone leaning forward...they're ready to go! You can see the smiles, the anticipation and the determination! Love sweet Chloe (stroller), she's not sure why they have to be so loud!

There were many family teams in both races. Here the Vorhies Men are preparing for their last big sprint to the finish line! In true Logan spirit, he gives the crowd exactly what they need to cheer him on!

There's my girl Kendall! She thought she wanted to participate until she realized how 'long' one mile is. But then we arrived and she saw her friends (pictured here with Emmie), and she jumped right in.

Mallory wasn't short on friends either. Later she told me that she was holding hands with her friends. She said "I told them, we look like we're getting in love." She so sweet. (Lydia, Mallory and Brianna)

Team Bing enjoyed their run together. Olivia and Craig slowed down in order to savor the moment. Not pictured is Grace...she had already crossed the finish line and secured her 2nd place medal!

No doubt the cutest spectator there!

Was a great feeling crossing the finish line with Kendall. After her 1 mile fun run she joined me in the 5k! No medals won here, but perhaps a new hobby for the two of us?

Kendall and Julianna both won medals for their fast little legs!

First Place Over All Girl Winner goes to Mary!! Much deserved too. Congratulations Mary!

Lucky Day

2011-04-16T08:55:00.000-07:00

Last week was Kindergarten registration. Ugh! For parents of 5 year old kids we totally dread this milestone. Sure it's sad that they are growing up, absolutely devastating they are about to leave behind their 'baby' ways, and not to mention the hectic life of school is looming around the corner. All of those things make us cringe. But the worse part of turning 5, the most dreaded part of kindergarten isn't kindergarten at all. It is the vaccines! (insert Psycho music here) I didn't tell her about the vaccines until we were leaving for the doctor's office. She looked at me with those big round eyes and said "I don't have to do that, right?". Umm...yes, yes you do. "Why?" Well, because you are 5 and if you want to go to school you have to get these shots so that you can be healthy. "What???" (my thoughts exactly...once I said it I thought how bogus it really sounded). She quickly decided that 1. She didn't really want to go to kindergarten after all. and 2. mom isn't near as smart as she had believed. So in an effort to reestablish my authority and good standing with her I reminded her of the art of negotiating. By the time we arrived we both had determined we were agreeing to 2 shots, and 2 shots only. On the ride over Mallory had already worked out a plan for the other 3, 2 of which she would go back for in one month and the last she would do in the summertime. We shared our plan with the doctor, who approved of the plan.. and I was so proud of Mallory's 'brave' face. Then as we were waiting for her to return with the vaccines her confidence began to crumble and her negiotating skills melted into pleads of fleeing while the doctor wasn't looking. A little pep talk (bribe) convinced her to stay. She even negotiated sitting in my lap while getting the shots. The nurse was kind enough to let her do it, I on the other hand was squeezing my eyes shut so as to not go out cold at the sight of the needles!! She screamed...loudly. And for the first 15 minutes was incredulous over the whole scenario...how on earth was she supposed to ever come back for 3 more! We left the doctor's office and headed to the store where she scored 2 treats ("one for each shot" she reminded me). That night was the Health Fair at Kendall's school, and Mallory's school since we had registered that day. She was excited to participate in 'her' school's event. The girls ran around the gymnasium participating at each booth and then turned in their registrations for the free bike drawings. Kendall was fixated on the metallic pink bike with 6 gears, hand brakes and real kick stand. It was the ultimate big girl bike. It was time for the drawing and all the kids were wide eyed, hoping to hear the first few syllables of their own names. And then they said it...M-A-L-L....no way!...-O-R-Y ...OMG!!! R-O-Y .....Yay!!!! WooHoo...Yay Mallory!!! We were all so excited we jumped up and High-Fived her and everyone around us. She was totally shocked and lit up light the star she felt like at that moment. She walked over to the bike, and turned toward the crowd..everyone laughed and cheered at the sight of her very astonished, delighted and speechless little face. One of our friends said "all she needed to do was throw her arms in the air, it was like a moment of victory!" It was great! That night, during prayers Mallory said "and thank you God for my really luck day. I got two shots, two suckers, lots of stickers, I get to go to kindergarten and I got a new bike. I wonder what will happen the next time I get shots? "

Uh-oh

The Super Bike! Mallory has allowed Kendall

to ride it 'for a few months, until I learn to ride

without training wheels. Or until I get another

new bike." Ahhh..the art of negotiating!

Soccer Sister

2011-04-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

Our soccer girl, Mallory, had a great game a few weekends ago. She was 'in the zone' and not at all concerned with her ponytails (which is usually the case). I have to admit that I am one of those parents, who walk up to the field shouting words of encouragement ('Put your foot on the ball!!! Goooo!!! Pay attention!! Good Job!)..I'm my own worse enemy. I'm waiting for Brian to call me out, as I would absolutely do the same if it were reversed. Soccer is his sport, one he played as a child and into High School. Kendall tried it for a few seasons, but lost interest. Mallory has good potential as a runner, but boy is she a social butterfly out there! Once I watched her hold hands with a team mate and skip over to the huddle that was fighting over the soccer ball. Yes..that was a "Pay Attention!!" moment. She just smiled at me, and introduced me to her friend. Where were my manners?

Spring Break Blues

2011-03-20T17:43:00.000-07:00

One of these kids is not like the other.... (yes.. it is a Sesame Street tune)

Poor Ty...he is over the breathing treatments!

Kendall's tonsils are ruining her Spring Break!

Sweet Mally...not sick at all...full of energy and entertainment!

This weekend we've been stuck at home with sick kids. Ty's second trip to the doc sent us home with albuterol packets and amoxicillin. He is totally over the treatments, not sure how we'll do it another 4-5 days. Kendall has been plagued with 'angry tonsils' since January really. She's made it through the weekend with the help of Motrin and frozen treats. Mallory has picked up the harmonica (among hundreds of other toys she's brought into the livingroom) and entertained us all this weekend. Her Spring Break Blues is accompanied by an Irish Step Dancing/Ballerina program that makes us all smile.

Tomorrow we meet with the physician at the Vanderbilt International Adoption Clinic. We hope to hear that Ty is up to date on vaccines and that he meets the 12 mos US standards. We are also glad to get a second opinion on his chest congestion and wheezing. I totally expect him to be all over place, so I better get busy packing my 'mommy's magic bag of tricks'!

Happy St. Pat's Day~

2011-03-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

Today was our first official holiday spent with baby Ty. To celebrate St. Patrick we wore lots of green! We spent time at the local park, Ty decorated the sidewalk with chalk. The sisters spent time with friends and then more time with friends. Hope to get some pics of their fun day too.

Pretty Poetry....

2011-03-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Nick Flynn finds the father within.

Three years ago, I was walking with a friend when we ran into Robert Hass, the former U.S. poet laureate. I'd met Hass a few times, and his work meant a lot to me. When he asked me how I was, I said, as I did in those days, that I was to have a child soon. I didn't tell Hass that the very word father felt ineffable in my mouth. My own father had been absent my whole life, wandering in a type of fog I couldn't enter, though I had tried, in my own way, over the years. The idea that I was to become one soon was difficult for me to imagine—or what I imagined was that within it I would find only wreckage.

While I said none of this to Hass, I must have said something, for he got very excited, and reached into his satchel, and pulled out a copy of George Oppen's "Sara in Her Father's Arms," and read it to me, right there. Cell by cell the baby made herself...it was as if he, or Oppen, was telling me that it was already out of my hands, that all I had to do was show up, to hold this as-yet-unborn girl in my arms, and she would teach me everything I needed to know. I held on to it, this poem, and I still do, even now, three years later, as my daughter brings me all the words she has found that day—words! There will be no other words in the world / But those our children speak.

Sara in Her Father's Arms

Cell by cell the baby made herself, the cells
Made cells. That is to say
The baby is made largely of milk. Lying in her father's arms, the little seed eyes
Moving, trying to see, smiling for us
To see, she will make a household
To her need of these rooms—Sara, little seed,
Little violent, diligent seed. Come let us look at the world
Glittering: this seed will speak,
Max, words! There will be no other words in the world
But those our children speak. What will she make of a world
Do you suppose, Max, of which she is made.
—George Oppen

10 Days Home

2011-03-15T18:30:00.000-07:00

Brian and I are still not in any real groove. We do sleep at night, though not as deep as we are used to since Ty is in our room. Brian was excited this morning when he was able to leave for work around 8:30a. His routine is to go to the gym before work..that was his routine. He and Ty get in good bonding time in the early morning, while I get an hour or two of solid sleep. The girls are on Spring Break, so they too are getting good bonding time. Ty is not feeling too great, he has a rotten cold and I suspect a little teething action, both of which sent him to bed with tired eyes and a low grade temp. I had to 'suction' his nose today..that took one episode for him to understand that is very unpleasant and should be avoided at all costs. The next two times were a struggle to say the least. His first dose of Motrin ended up on his chin and shirt, he spit it out as fast as I was squirting it in. His second dose went down much smoother with him actually holding on to the dispenser for every last drop...that's what a little taste of sugar will do for ya!

We are all trying to adjust to a 2 parent, 3 kid family. The girls are pretty self sufficient at their ages and have been able help to me with Ty. It is torture to have them use 'quiet' voices during nap time...today is the first day they both were able to do it. (That is the one thing they would probably say is the biggest issue...working around a sleeping baby. Oh, and Mallory can't stand to be stuck in the van with him if he cries..she holds her ears and says just that "I can't stand it Mom!") As soon as they heard Ty wake up they were bouncing off the walls! They ran into the bedroom and hugged him, laughed at his sleepy cuteness and talked as loud as they could without crossing the line into yelling...they couldn't help themselves.

I am so grateful that Ty likes us..really. When we met him in January he was not feeling well and at times quite convincing that we were not at all his style. I don't know what brought the change in him but boy am I glad to see his smiling face and feel his head rest on my shoulder. He plays and plays, he eats with both hands shoveling as fast as he can and, yes, he is finally warming up to the animals. Slowly mind you..but it is happening. He is very ticklish on his feet and belly laughs if I remove sock lint from between his little toes. He babbles a lot too, I know he has such a great story to tell. The girls keep saying that he says "dada" but I think that's just baby babble...it better be!

Here are some cute pics taken today..

Ty's New Village

2011-03-13T08:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the prettiest day we've had since returning from Ethiopia and all 5 us were itching to get outside. Ty went on his first stroller ride with his mama in the morning around the Village neighborhood. It has been so long since we were out and about, I was glad to see new houses going up. That means new neighbors, and closer to finishing up our 'hood which makes us all happy! After Ty's mid-morning nap and a heavy lunch (he MUST be going through a growing spurt, that kid is eating everything, and LOTS of it!) the Roy clan headed to our fountain park. I had received a text from one of Ty's newest friends, Riley, giving him the scoop on a potential kids fun zone around the corner. So off we went. Riley was right, the Village kiddos were out in full force. This was Ty's first introduction to his new neighbors, his new Village peeps were excited to meet their newest little boy. The older kids rode bikes and practiced gymnastics in the grass. Ty enjoyed his first Goldfish snack, apparently there were a few on the ground, and he too practiced a little gymnastics on the grass. We loved our time outdoors and watching Ty around the kids. He definitely feels comfortable surrounded by little people. After our fun outing we brought a very tired little boy home for a nap that he apparently didn't want. Giving thanks again for the Ergo Baby carrier! Strapped him on and set about cutting up fruit and making mashed potatoes. Later we joined the kids at the Johnson's for an evening cookout. What a great time we had! 8 pm and all were asleep, even Brian! I was left to watch t.v. alone, with a left over plate of brownies. That's what I call a perfect ending to a perfect day!

Ty's New Village family

First time Ty has experienced grass, it didn't slow him down!

Big Sis Kendall, gosh she's pretty!

Half of the Johnson's Crew

Ty's friend Levi...I want to frame this pic I love it so!

Five Days??

2011-03-10T13:44:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe it's been only five days home. Literally I can't believe it and have counted it on my fingers many times. It feels like longer, of course my lack of sleep and cabin fever aren't helping I'm sure! But Ty is doing wonderfully! His sleep schedule is coming around and last night he slept from 8 pm until 6 am. Mallory is no longer asking to see his diaper and Kendall is still not ready to pick him up...but they are both still very much excited about having a little brother. Ty came home with a bit of an upper respiratory/cough and we are debating taking him to the doctor for it but other than that he appears to be feeling well. I noticed last night that his skin seemed brighter, his eyes wider and his face a little rounder than just one week ago. He is all about smiling now and laughs out loud when tickled. He is unsure of the animals, though he did find Frank Jenkin's tail this morning and tried to bite it. Mallory thought that was hysterical. He loves table food and I imagine before long he'll start spitting the strained veggies back at me in retaliation. We've learned the secret to a successful diaper change is a wagon wheel snack (Gerber genius again!). He will NOT go back to sleep when he wakes up unless he's laying on my chest. He is definitely bonding with Brian and they have spent the last 2 mornings quietly hanging out while the 3 Roy girls sleep. He has discovered the stairs that lead up to his room and makes a bee-line for them when we aren't looking. Today he pulled himself up beside me and let go, standing all by himself for 3-5 seconds. He would get so excited that he'd make himself fall. I bet he did it 5-6 times. We're looking for baby gates now... we know our time is limited before he starts walking!

First Night Home...

2011-03-10T13:35:00.000-08:00

Our first night home was a success. We put Ty to sleep at 9 p and he slept straight through to 6 a.m. We have his playpen set up in our bedroom where he will be sleeping for the next several weeks so that we can all adjust back to our Tennessee sleep schedule. He was crying when he woke, a little confused but as soon as we picked him up he relaxed and smiled.

What a gift!

Welcome Home Ty Roy!

2011-03-10T13:16:00.000-08:00

Thirty hours of travel for your first time on a plane at age 12 months is no laughing matter. Our first flight left at midnight Friday night. Ty fell asleep right before we got to the airport, but woke less than an hour later and didn't fall back asleep. I will admit a little fault in this issue as I broke the 'smart mom rule #103', don't brag about your kid's great sleeping habits. I had JUST told this lady standing in line at the check in counter about how great he sleeps, he sleeps 12 hours, we expect he'll just sleep until we reach Frankfurt. (As I'm typing this I'm kicking myself!) So around 2 a.m., he decided he would go to sleep but only if I was holding him, in the way he wanted to be held. I cried. Yep, right there on a packed airbus with people looking at me and Brian giving me the 'you gotta be kidding' look I just let 'em fall. There was no holding back, I was exhausted, missing my girls and frustrated as heck that I agreed to the 'let's encourage him to bond with you first that way he will feel extremely comfortable no matter what' rationale that we assumed was best at the first of the week. So we slept, Ty in my arms, me laying across 2 seats and our heads in Brian's lap. It was miserable. When we got off of the plane we went in search of the sleeping cots. They weren't out. I didn't care. I found a row of chairs, took off the sling, secured in onto Brian with the baby, found my pillow and slept for 2 hours with strangers walking past me. Yes, I was one of those airport people and I did not care. When I woke I was a new woman. We went to McDonald's where I drank the best iced fountain Sprite ever! We met up with our friends the Chains and spent the next several hours sharing stories. Our next flight was a huge success, Ty slept in his seat for 7 of the 8 hour flight. Bliss. Our experience at the Philadelphia airport was awful..I mean literally awful and I fully intend to send a scathing email soon!

When we arrived in Nashville we were full of energy, ready to see our girls. My parents parked the van and brought the girls in with balloons to greet us. It was a great surprise and a wonderful memory to share with Ty when he gets older. The sisters are in love with their brother. Kendall can't believe how cute he is and how small he is. Mallory can't quit giggling and touching him. When we got home Mallory had to help feed him, and wanted to change his diaper (I was able to negotiate a side line job for her). Kendall helped feed him his bottle. He was not at at all shy with them and his eyes were full of delight. We are tired and achy, but boy are we at peace here with our three kid in our own home. What a blessing...what blessings they all are!

Mallory's first big sister job..she wouldn't take

no for an answer!

Kendall was amazed with his small hands and fingers.

His first visit to his room. Mallory was eager

to show him his toys.

Homeward Bound

2011-03-10T12:52:00.000-08:00

This morning we were escorted back to the Post Office area for more souvenirs. I must say that I enjoyed this trip more than the other two times we went. I think because it was early, before 10 a.m., so there were not many people out and we could focus on buying our items. We picked up several items for Ty and the girls, and even a few for ourselves. A common phrase in Amharic is Eshee...means OK. Brian has gotten into the habit of using Eshee this week, so it seemed apropos that he buy a shirt with the Amharic spelling. In about 1 hour we had everything bought and were headed back to our guest house.

We have a friend here, Girma, who had invited us to his house for lunch. He called just as we were leaving our shopping area and we worked out a place to meet so that we could just get in the car with him. It was the first time I've ever sat in the front seat, on a busy road with a baby in my lap. That was weird. We arrived safely and I hope Ty doesn't expect that happen when we get home. I'm wondering how he'll deal with the US car seat?

Girma and his wife hosted a lovely lunch of dora wat, lentils, injera and another dish I can't name. We met their family and friends and everyone complimented us on Ty. They also congratulated us. The older gentleman, whose name I don't think we were ever told because he was affectionately known as father (he is close with Girma and a retired Priest), gave me the best compliment yet. After we were there for about an hour he said to Girma and Brian..."I can't believe how lucky that boy is. Look how she loves him, as if he is her very own." He is my own, but I know what he was talking about and I felt honored to receive the compliment. Girma's wife and her sister took turns walking Tamirat, hoping to help me as he was in need of a nap but not at all willing to miss the excitement. Each time he would hear me, or see me, he would cry for me. It is such a good feeling to know your newly adopted son wants to be with you. Praise God.

After several hours of visiting we packed up and headed back to the guest house. Today was a super hot day! The car ride home was miserable with the little hot potato against me and the windows barely cracked, no a/c. Yikes! When we reached our house I headed upstairs to peel the clothes off of us.

We packed up and had our dinner with the Fischers. We hope to visit them this May, but they promised us that if we can't get there in May they would like to visit us later in the summer perhaps. This has been a super special week. We are home sick and can't wait to get on the plane tonight, but there is still a little sadness associated with leaving this country. We know this is not goodbye forever, and that helps.

Looking forward to a glass of sprite with ice, breakfast cereal with milk and my girls smiles.

Ty with his African outfit on and his Ethiopian passport.

Our last Ethiopian sunset, for now anyhow.

Dinner out...

2011-03-10T08:33:00.000-08:00

Last night we decided to visit another great Ethiopian restaurant. We had heard good things about this restaurant/art gallery, Mankush. This was an upscale restaurant and the dishes were enjoyed by all. The USD goes a long way here...the dinner for 7 adults ran under $100, can't remember the exact amount. That included full entrees for 6, 4 appetizers, cold sodas (a luxury here!) and really great service.

Wednesday in Ethiopia

2011-03-10T08:21:00.000-08:00

We headed out this morning to a small region named Korah, about a 20 minute drive from our Guest House. This is one of the most (if not THE most) impoverished area in the Addis area. We had been hoping to visit the Alert Hospital, the lepracy hospital, and shop in their gift store. The patients make all of the items there and we have heard it is a trip worth making. What we didn't realize is that today is Victory Day, all schools are closed, many businesses are closed..including the gift shop. We also wanted to meet the lady running Project 61, her name is Summer and she is from Thompson Station, TN. She met us around 10:30 and took us on a tour of the village. My mind is still reeling from what I saw, and I don't think I can do it justice at this point. This is poverty like you image you are going to see in third world countries..but you can never prepare yourself for it. 10 people live in an room the size of my bathroom. The dump is nearby, and it is the main reason this village exists. The village is built ON a cemetary. When the gov't created the dump, the people followed so that they could sort through the trash for food, and items that they could resale to make money..very little money. One of our translators from our guest house grew up there and has a phenomenol testimony..he is very close with everyone there and was very instrumental in our experience. Summer is an angel! She and her husband just took over this ministry..Project 61...and they find American families who are willing to support an Ethiopian child from the Karah region and send them to a private boarding school in another region. It is a ministry worth knowing about my Tennessee friends! For $600 a child can be housed, clothed and fed for an entire school year....with a top knotch education. Right now they have over 700 kids in the program, many still needing sponsorship. As we walked through the area the kids just flocked around us. If your hand was available it wouldn't be for long..they are very loving children. They were sooo excited to see us with Ty and my friend Sabrina had her daughter too. Frequently the babies would be admired with a touch on their feet, hands or backs. One teen girl walked straight up to me and before I knew it she had leaned in and kissed Ty on his cheek. Amazing. It will be something I pray over tonight and night's to come in hopes of understanding how to process that experience.

Ty is continuing to open up to us and really bless us with his sweet self! He interacts with me mainly and isn't afraid to explore my face with his fingers. We are so glad that he is not a picky eater and has not had any difficulty transitioning to our Gerber products and formula. He has a nasty cold, but other than that he is super healthy. Tonight we went to a very nice Italian restaurant and art museum, Makush. Ty was a polite baby, sat in my lap while i fed him and allowed me to eat too. I know those days won't last long, so I'll brag about them while they last. Brian is the 'closer', and seems to have the magic touch with walking Ty and putting him to sleep, though tonight he just walked him through the art gallery and entertained him as much as Ty was willing. It was dark out on our way home, the first time we've ever been out in the evening. There were many people out and about. Ty loved the lights and fought sleep the entire way home. He went to sleep within 10 minutes of laying down, tired boy!

Tomorrow is our Embassy appointment. Our friends had their appointment on Tuesday and have assured it looks like the DMV with rows of windows and an illuminated number sign. We don't anticipate any surprises and look forward to this last step in this long journey!

This is a bunk room that P61 allows orphans

and women a safe place to sleep.

The welcoming committee in Korah is comprised

of little people with big smiles and a

precious way of winning your heart!

12 Hours Later...

2011-03-10T07:43:00.000-08:00

This sweet boy slept for 12 very long hours! He woke up crying and I swooped in, we had been waiting for him to wake up. Once I had him in my arms he stopped crying and was happy to be held. We moved to the living room area where he seemed more comfortable looking through the suitcase for his toys we brought. He loves the little board book and the trucks.

After breakfast we had to return to the transition home to fill out our Embassy documents. I was very apprehensive about returning with Ty. It seemed like a cruel trick, to take him back to the place he knows as home and then drag him away again. I imagined a crying baby, distraught to be kept from his beloved nanny...I was sad for him. When we pulled up he recognized the guard right away, and the scenes too. He was definitely alert and offering more smiles than ever. My heart was heavy, dreading the disappointment this little boy was going to suffer again. They walked us up the stairs, past Ty's old baby room and into a room that was lined with large gymnastic mats used for baby play. To my great relief Ty was not trying to get away from me but just the opposite. He was laughing, playing and continually returning to me. Our house guide, Hermella, even noted how much of a difference she saw in him in one night's time. Some of the nannies came in to say hi to him and he smiled at them...but didn't cry for them. Of course he did not see HIS nanny, and for that I am grateful. I wonder if she knew? I bet she did. Maybe she didn't come in an effort to spare him because history had taught her with babies she's helped raise. Or maybe she didn't come to spare herself. This is such a special bond between nanny and baby, she was his mother until I arrived. I don't know what she was doing, but I can imagine how it must have hurt to let go. I will be saying extra prayers for her, for all of the nannies at the HOH.

After lunch we rested for a little while and then went out souvenir shopping with our new friends the Skiles. There is a really great area called the Post Office with lots of small shops carrying great souvenirs. I carried Ty in the Ergo Baby (thank you Courtney!!) and though he is the hottest little bean ever, we managed not to melt each other. :) The Fischer's had their Embassy Appt during this time and afterward they joined us a the Post Office. Afterward we all headed to each dinner at a great restaurant..Island Breeze. Supposedly the owner had lived in the states and ran a restaurant for many years before returning to Ethiopia. The menu really does cater to Americans and we enjoyed chicken wings, avacado dip/chips, pizzas, buffalo chicken sandwiches and french fries. The music was old rock/pop and we found ourselves relaxing with each bite. By the time we were finished we all were full and tired!

Tomorrow we are going to visit the Leprosy hospital. The residents make crafts and sell them in their hospital gift shop, sounds interesting. Ty is fast asleep at 7:30 pm, and we are exhausted too. But the Fischer's have friends visiting, they are here adopting too, and everyone is enjoying swapping adoption stories and good humor. Though we are tired, the evening is one of our favorite times of the day. We all meet down stairs around the dining area and chat about the day's events. We've had many meaningful conversations with the staff here too. This trip is definitely about getting our son, and with that comes many more blessings through these friendships!

A little after lunch snooze...

Enjoying his suitcase of fun!

First Day with Ty...more pics

2011-03-07T19:04:00.000-08:00

Spending a little one of one time in our room, Ty really enjoyed
playing with books and liked to be read to. Made it nice to have
an easy way to interact with him.

Ty's first 'American' meal...Gerber Sweet Potatoes and Corn.
No complaints, he ate it all. We forgot to get his feeding schedule so
we winged it...and he didn't mind at all.

Changing him out of his transition home clothes and into
one of the outfits we brought for him. I couldn't resist the first naked baby pic...he did have on a diaper!

He loved the board book..would not let it go.

The REAL Gothcha Day!

2011-03-07T17:25:00.000-08:00

This morning our van arrived around 9 a.m. and picked up four very anxious adults. We were up early and ready to go pick up our babies! When we arrived the nanny brought Tamirat to us. First sight of us and he busted out crying..not quite the welcome we were hoping for but also not unexpected either! After a few minutes of walking around he calmed down and for a slight moment we romanticed the idea that he might just remember us... We joined our friends the Fischers in the family room and just relaxed with our new babies. It wasn't long after that Ty did what he is most famous for doing with us..he fell asleep in my arms.

This time when he fell asleep I was not at all disappointed..we have the rest of our lives together!

After hanging out at the Transition home for a few hours we were given the ok to leave with our little ones. Ty had not been crying (he was sleeping) and when he awoke he was a bit confused. We were not confused that he wasn't real happy with us, but we were so happy we just our emotions lead the way. In the van Ty was very curious and stared out the window sitting on my lap. (There are no car seats here and it is very legal to hold your baby while driving the car as we witnessed first hand from a car in front of us.) We also gave him a lollipop, in celebration of the big day.

Leaving the transition home, headed to our guest house. Big smiles from everyone!

When we arrived at our guest house the staff greeted us with enthusiastic smiles and admired our cute boy. We took him directly to our room to have a little one on one time with him. If someone new had met us at that moment they would have thought we were first time parents...giddy and anxious!

Entering our guest house suite. Exciting!!

We all sat in the living area on the floor and fed Ty his lunch. He never cried once we left the transition house. Completely surprised us. After lunch we played with a few toys. Ty showed us that in fact he does like toys and can crawl...both of which we were unsure of based on our last visit.

Ty and Brian...checking out the space.

Around 3 Ty started showing signs of being sleepy so I laid him in the playpen we were using as his bed. He had held onto a mini board book the entire time and kept it with him during his nap. He never moved..he slept solid for over 2 hours. When he woke up he actually smiled at me. Still no cries. As the afternoon progressed we were able to see a side of him that we had not before..a curious little boy who can crawl, babble and even smile if he wants to. Can't wait to see what he'll teach us tomorrow!!

Extra pics..

2011-03-07T17:03:00.000-08:00

We thought this sign, located at the entrance of the Hyatt swimming pool was hysterical. #4 states: Do not spit or blow nose while you are in the pool. #5 Please do not swim if you have the flu, cough, an open wound or any infection (we were so disappointed that we wouldn't get to swim while down with the flu!) #7 Pregnant women are advised not to use any facilities (Is that legal??)

The staff were preparing for a kids b'day party..beautiful setting!

One of the many courtyards at the Hyatt in Addis Ababa Ethiopia

Sunday Reunion

2011-03-07T17:01:00.000-08:00

We were so excited this morning when we woke up. We knew that our friends the Fischer's (Sabrina and Adam) would be arriving! In typical international travel form, their plane landed at 7:45a.m. and they finally made it to the EGH 3 hours later. Hugs and smiles were abundant as was our shared excitement over tomorrow's great baby event! The Fischer's have a daughter at the same transition house. We have also met another couple, Brett and Ashley from Indiana. The are here for their first trip to visit thier babies (they are adopting 2). As soon as Sabrina and I talked we had a lunch plan and the day began. They took us to a great Italian restaurant, GreenView where we dined on very authentic tasting Margharita pizza. History lesson: Ethiopia was once overtaken by the Italians and though they do not have a stronghold anymore, these smart Ethiopians took the best part and continue to create very tasty Italian food. After lunch we stopped in at a local grocery store for a few items. When we entered there were 2 guards at the door (not your typical greeting at Publix) and they asked to look in my backpack. The lady saw my lollipops and smiled..so I gave them both one. Yes, it was weird, but what the heck. We bought some milk, the guys are hoping to enjoy it with cookies later. After that we made a trip to the Hyatt to get some money exchanged into Birr (Ethiopian currency) and we were blown away at the how nice the hotel was. We have heard that the Sheraton is even nicer. It is kind of wierd to have this extravagant place here. We walked around and enjoyed the lush scenary before we headed back to our place to prepare for our little ones.

Ethiopian Bound..again!

2011-03-07T16:43:00.000-08:00

Nearly 32 hours of traveling and we’re here! Our flights were totally uneventful, just the way we like it. Our first layover in Chicago was ridiculously long, but in true Roy fashion we Googled my favorite pizza joint (Giordano’s), found one less than 5 miles from the airport, hailed a cab, and set up camp with our deep dish ‘yumminess’ for three uninterrupted hours. We nearly missed our flight, that was a tense moment. I had walked to the restroom, came back and noticed people lined up. Since Brian was in charge I asked him if it was time to board..he said not yet that they were boarding ‘children/assistance’ tickets. Twenty minutes later the announcement for Final Boarding was announced… and from then on I was in charge. We landed in Germany 8+ hours later, found an area set up for napping and caught up on an hour of sleep that we desperately needed. Our flight left on time and we arrived here in Addis at 9:30 p.m.
Internet is not very strong tonight, hopefully will be better tomorrow. I will post as I can. Looks like we’ll have to wait to see Ty. Our transition home is not open to visitors tomorrow so we’ll wait to see him on Monday. Good news is that once we see him we will be bringing him back to our house with us. Yay! The ladies here set up a playpen in our room…with a cute little pillow and blankets tucked in perfectly. It is surreal to think that we are finally going to have Ty as our own. We are so glad to be here! Love the EGH (Ethiopian Guest Home), they are so kind and accommodating. We hope to Skype tomorrow with our sweet girls back home. Missed them on the phone tonight..their social calendar is pretty busy today and our timing just didn’t work out. Sending love to them!

Strep, 5 year Prep, and new Visa steps

2011-02-03T07:11:00.000-08:00

Oh my has this been a difficult week! I finally found my daily rhythm last weekend and we enjoyed Saturday and Sunday with our friends. Beautiful weather enticed us outdoors and now we're all longing for signs of spring! On Sunday Kendall returned from a friend's house feeling pretty bad, her throat mainly. By Monday morning we were sitting in her doctor's office, diagnosis Strep Throat. Poor kid. It was miserable for her. But in the way that only kids can, by Tuesday morning and 2 doses of meds in her she was up and about and feeling way better. Love that medicine!! She went to school on Wednesday and I went to my doctor, for the same diagnosis. This stuff is wicked! Hoping I'll bounce back as quickly??
Sweet Mallory turns 5 this weekend. We are praying she won't be a victim of this junk! Prayer is all we have left since the precocious little girl refuses to stay out of our faces and insists on a hug even as we're running the other direction. Let's hope 5 gives her more self control than 4 did!
We received interesting news this week regarding our second trip back to Ethiopia. The way the US Embassy gives dates was based upon your agency. So for our agency we knew that they have a standing arrangement every other Thursday. Having been briefed on the steps needed to get our paperwork to the Embassy, the timeline had us believing we were good candidates for the March 3 court date. We were so sure we even made our lodging arrangements for that week. But then 2 hours after we made those reservations we received an update regarding the Embassy dates. The Embassy has decided to do away with set days for agencies. It's a free for all! What?!? Not really. The way we now understand it to be is that in an effort to move more cases through efficiently they have decided to alert the agencies as soon as each file has been reviewed and is cleared to have a Visa Interview. Our agency will still try to group families together so that we have a travel group. Though I know now from experience how wonderful such a group can be, I'm quite sure the agency needs to group us together in an effort to not overwhelm the in-country staff and the travel coordinator here in the states. I'm hopeful that our agency and the Embassy will find a 'groove' that proves to be most beneficial to the children and their families who are waiting to be united again. This first full week apart from Ty has been a roller coaster! Many tears have been shed in anxiety and the inexplicable weight of separation from our child. He is on our minds constantly and we find ourselves reaching out to the other adoptive families..it's our one true connection back to the days with Ty. We are grateful to hear from them and so very glad they want to talk about our babies together. One thing that helps is to know that though he may be miles away he sleeps under the same moon and wakes to the same bright sun that we do. And always, we are all under God's ever watchful eye, the most comforting thought of all.
One more bit of exciting news came this week. One of the traveling families had stayed in Ethiopia and was scheduled to leave on Jan 31st. They had contacts in Ethiopia and were able to extend their stay. We learned yesterday that they had been told to extend their trip because it was a good possibility that they would get to have their visa interview next week. We are so excited for them and pray that all goes well. If this comes true for them it is a good indicator that our paperwork may be close behind. We, too, could be getting an invitation to return sooner than we thought! It's all in God's hands, and as I've said before His timing is always perfect!

Friday with Friends

2011-02-03T06:52:00.000-08:00

Another deep sleep night! Yay! Today is a busy ‘let’s get things for Ty’ day. I registered for an upcoming baby shower my sweet neighborhood friends are planning. I have to admit it is a whole different ball game registering for a one year old! It was fun to do and by focusing so much attention on Ty, I was totally excited about his arrival. After registering I did a little shopping and picked up a few clothes and snacks for the sweet little guy. We’ve been invited to dine with friends tonight, looking forward to a night out. I have a feeling we’ll be doing a lot of the talking as our friends are dying to hear details of our visit with Ty. Should be a good night.

Jetlag Thursday..ugh!

2011-01-29T18:36:00.000-08:00

We slept for 9 hours straight! To bed before 9 and awake at 6 am. Boy we were beat! About mid morning I began to really miss Ty. Wonder what he’s doing? Is he feeling better? Are they making sure to give him extra fluids while he’s on meds? Is he looking at his photo book and remembering us? It sure does stink to be separated from your child. Glad I fell in love with the nannies and had a chance to really see them at work, as I think that has made me feel a bit better about the situation.
I can really tell how tired I am, guess this is jet lag?? Funny, in Ethiopia at 11 pm when I wanted to sleep my body thought it was 2 pm and wouldn’t sleep. Now I’m here and you’d think I could just slip right into my time zone, but no. Even with 9 hours of sleep last night I am struggling. At 5 o’clock this afternoon I started fading fast. Would have helped 36 hours ago to be able to sleep at 2 am!! UGH!
My mind is racing with things I should be doing, but all I want to do is sort through my Ty pictures. Here are a few of my favorites.

We're Home!!

2011-01-29T18:31:00.000-08:00

My new 'forever friend' Sabrina..we can't wait to see them again!

This was the first time that Ty did not cry when surrounded by the others, we were so proud of him!

The Coffee Ceremony that the lovely hosts of the Ethiopian Guest House treated us to before leaving Tuesday night

We landed in our sweet home town tonight at 5:30. Our girls met us as we drug our suitcases out of the airport, with squeals of delight and big hugs. That’s the best!
We were so lucky to have traveled home with two other adoptive families. Ben and Heidi, Lisa and Dave. We all enjoyed each others company over coffee and pastries in Frankfurt during our 4 hour layover. We all were exhausted, poor Heidi nearly asleep at the table. We left Ben and Heidi in Germany and boarded our longest leg to Chicago with Lisa and Dave. This nine hour flight was made a bit more comfortable because my sweet husband had the forethought to ask if the flight was full. It was not, and so he moved us to the exit aisle…the leg room was worth the missing window. We both dozed, watched a movie, listened to music and read. We both had begun not feeling well in Frankfurt, so we snacked on pretzels and minimal plane food. In Chicago the four of us found a food court and passed our next two hours with more great conversation and wishful speculation of our next travel. We all agreed, we hope to travel with one another again.
Heading home from the airport we made a stop to see our friends Dawit and Debere. When we were in Ethiopia we had the great pleasure of meeting Dawit’s brother. He gifted us with traditional Ethiopian dress scarves and lots of kindness! We had arranged to carry back items for his family here. We were bringing lots of aromatic spices, clothes, fabric and other gifts for Dawit’s family. We were so happy to be able to do something for this family. It was their kindness to translate our letter to Tamirat’s family that was truly an amazing moment between us. And of course, if we were stopping by we had to have tibs! Debere prepared the yummy tibs, accompanied with injera and lentils..and cottage cheese for Mallory of course! Funny, we left Ethiopia and came to Tennesse for Ethiopian food! It tasted so good! We are so glad we found Goha and the family who owns it. Then when we arrived home we were surprised to find a yummy Chicken casserole from our dear neighbors the Johnson’s. They too have walked this path and know the toll such trips can take. We are so grateful for the love of our friends!

Gotcha Day!!

2011-01-29T18:25:00.000-08:00

What a CRAZY-WONDERFUL Day! As promised we arrived at the transition house at 8:30a.m. When we walked through the gates the little toddlers were lined up on the sidewalk. When they saw us they clapped and cheered for us. It was definitely spontaneous and really a memory I’ll always hold dear. Knowing what I know now, that was a super way to start such a complex day!
Brian and I (and a few others) had decided against wearing our court clothes to the transition home. We figured (1) if we get the call that court was rescheduled for an earlier time then we would quickly change(we brought our court clothes) (2) there was very little chance we would go earlier (3) have I mentioned how HOT it gets? Dressing up is not fun when you’re sweating.. (4) Ty was likely to leave his mark on our clothing if you know what I mean. So sure enough, up to the Family Room we went and within 2 minutes we were told we have to leave for court..NOW. Oops. We all dashed about finding our clothes, changing and nervously laughing at the incident. We piled in the van and headed to the court house.
Our favorite translator (you got..Hanuck) took us into the court house, marched us up 5 or 6 flts of stairs (lost count after 3), and walked us right up to the waiting area where we stood outside of the door waiting for the other adoptive families to arrive. The waiting room was crowded and even after the others arrived we all just stood in the hallway until a very convincing guard insisted we move into the waiting room. We huddled in the middle of the room, looking nervously at each other and saying many prayers. The judge summoned 2-3 families at a time into her chamber. Yes, a female judge…she was beautiful! She asked us all the same 5-6 questions, really stressed the importance of the Ethiopian culture and how the country hopes we all educate our children on their birth country. We all agreed and that was it. We were parents..for a third time! We all huddled again in the waiting room until the last families had seen the judge then we herded out of the room and out of the building. What didn’t go without noticing was right as we were all leaving a large group of Ethiopian citizens stood up and walked out in front of us. One of them, a very kind man with a genuine smile stopped and shook my hand and the hand of others around me. It was at that moment that I realized that group of people might be our children’s birth family representatives. I asked, and it was confirmed. What a moment of excitement! We were then told that we would have a chance to speak with our child’s birth family as soon as we left the court house. We met at the agency's guest house. The birth families were already there when we arrived.
Seated quietly without much expression were the birth families. The adoptive families stood on the other side of the court yard, quiet and contemplative. You could see that we all were trying to take a peek at each other, without staring..wondering if our children looked like one of them and they were curious which of us had promised to love and care for their child. It was awkward to say the least. With only one translator the wait was long, each family taking about 15 minutes with the translator to get as much important information regarding their child, the family history and any extras we might stumble upon. In an effort to move things along, a younger man who was with the birth families and could translate at best broken English stepped forward and began saying the names of our children. He was the first to introduce us to Tamirat’s uncle Yishak. He was a tall, lean, friendly man who greeted us first with a handshake and after introductions we shared a hug. As we waited for our agency’s translator to assist us we decided to give Yishak the letter we had prepare for him. With the assistance of our friend Dawit we had written a letter to Tamirat’s family and he had translated it into Amharic, the main Ethiopian language. He began to read it, out loud. After each couple of sentences he would look at us and say something. The young translator would then tell us “he is happy” “he says thank you” “his heart is happy” “He loves you”. As he read on his voice became softer and his words became more slurred, we knew he was becoming emotional and we were too. At the end of the letter we had included a scripture:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding,
In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your steps.” Proverbs 3: 5-6
Yishak read it and with wide eyes asked if we were Christians. We nodded and claimed we were. He raised his hand to his chest and indicated that he was too. He told us his family are Christians and he was so happy to know that we were too. It was a perfect ending to our initial introduction. Soon after we were able to sit down with the agency’s translator and ask a few questions. Yishak graciously answered all that he could. He was soft spoken and at times I wondered if I had asked too much. It was at these times he would offer a smile or make eye contact, as if he knew I needed encouragement. After our time together we took pictures together. We had given him pictures of Tamirat and he quickly looked through them. After we were done he sat down with the other birth family members and looked at the pictures again, and others looked on. He also shared the letter with them. Just as we had become intimately connected with the group of adoptive parents in our journey to unite with our children, these birth families had traveled hours, some days, and they too had created a bond with each other. They shared their photos with each other and it was apparent that they truly offered comfort to each other in a way only they could. We were not so different from each other..and our children were the ties that bound us together. What a beautiful experience.
After our meeting, the birth families traveled to the transition home for one last visit with their children. I can only imagine what this visit meant to them and how very difficult it must have been. I pray that our meeting helped relieve the burden of the visit and allowed them time to rejoice in their children and their futures. After lunch we headed to the transition home, the birth parents were gone, and had our last 3 hours with our children. In all of the stress, the emotion, the confusion, the excitement, the heart break…as soon as they opened those gates, the motion of it pushed another chapter open in our lives. There were tears of happiness. Ty was asleep (go figure!), but soon he was brought to me. It was obvious his belly was upset, as we had 2 diaper changes and a change of clothes in the first hour. That morning I had prayed that God help us to connect with Ty, I was really needing to see a smile .. something to show me he was happy to have us as his parents. I have to admit that as much as I loved him laying against me and sleeping in my arms over the last 2 day, I would have done anything for a happy Ty. As God has done so many times in our journey, He did not disappoint. Our last 15 minutes was spent with a baby who laughed and smiled..he has dimples!! Unlike most parents, we left there with joy in our hearts. Our happiness was so consuming we couldn’t find the sadness in leaving him. Again, we gave thanks.
Our evening ended with a coffee ceremony celebrating our wonderful day, shared with our precious new friends! We left for the airport at 8:30 and caught an 11:30 flight to Frankfurt, Germany.

Monday in Addis

2011-01-29T18:20:00.000-08:00

Another busy day in Ethiopia. We woke to pancakes, and though they weren’t as tasty as the Schiro’s , we were happy. Then off to the transition home to see Ty. It was clear to us that he is feeling better today, but still not 100%. He is a serious little guy and so we are still trying to figure out what he wants. He seemed to enjoy our company more today. In fact, when we returned for the second visit after lunch there was a group who arrived before us. They said when they went into the nursery to get their children that Ty kept looking around them trying to see who was coming in next as if looking for us. We had a toy car that Brian and rolled back and forth to each other. Ty was in my lap. For a brief moment Ty forgot his apprehension, reached out for the truck and knocked it over and made the ever slightest sound. Totally made our day. We were invited to watch his nannies give him a bath this afternoon. They move fast, as the tub is a baby bath that they put in the middle of the nursery floor with a bucket of water ready to wash with. To our delight he was very content in the tub, even when the nanny poured water directly over his head (many times) he didn’t complain at all. Just kept on reaching for the soap. I have secretly warned him that he may need to act a little more put out with it or Brian will have him signed up for swim lessons this summer. Not the Mommy and me kind either. I think he understood me.
After lunch we headed out with 2 other couples to do a little souvenir shopping. The guest house arranged for us to have a driver and a translator. We went into the downtown area of Addis Ababa to an area locals call the Post Office. Apparently there is a post office nearby , clever. (They also have a part of town called Mexico..funny.) We went into a great shop that had lots of great items. We got several things for the kids, and for the house. It was a lot of fun. Our friends Sabrina and Adam are collecting items for their daughter’s birthdays..plural. They are going to collect 18 gifts to give her, one for every birthday until her 18th birthday. I loved that idea! Our outing was a success for all of us, so glad we did it. I will mention that driving in Ethiopia is INSANE!! If there is a 4 lane road (supposed to be for two coming, two going), the driver will use all four lanes until he absolutely must move over. They can maneuver their vans as if they were on motorcycles, we were squeezing between other vans, in and out of cars. We even ran up on a police car, which we nearly took the curb to pass. Pedestrians are EVERYWHERE, and just as daring as the drivers. It is chaos and I am grateful for the rules of the road we follow in the US. (Most of us follow.)
Tomorrow is our court date. We are still unclear of the time, as the judge called at the last minute tonight to move our time from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., but if she can get caught up she will call us and have us come earlier. You have no idea the confusion this will be! We have to juggle our visit with our kids, in our court attire, transportation which you have to call in advance and the list goes on. Ugh! But, in the end we will have our time and as long as all paperwork has been accounted for we will officially be granted guardianship of one cute little boy!

Round 2

2011-01-23T08:47:00.000-08:00

Second visit with Ty was just a wonderful as the first, just hate that he is not feeling well. He was asleep when we arrived, so we asked that they let him sleep. They said that he had been sleeping, and that they would let us know when he awoke. About 10 minutes later they walked in with a very sleepy Ty. He looked at us and cried..poor guy! It wasn’t long before we realized he was still sleepy, probably a side effect of the medicine too. Again he fell asleep in my arms and was content that way. He would wake, pull on his ears and fuss a little, then sleep some more. Our little boy is definitely sick and not feeling well. Such a helpless feeling. All of the other babies were making eye contact and some big smiles were had, so we know it is a happy place and fully expect to have those moments with Ty soon. Right now, if he’ll just let us hold him while he sleeps we are glad to do it.
Tonight we had one of our favorite Ethiopian dishes for dinner. We eat all of our meals at our Guest House. It is really the safest way to eat as they know not to cook with any water, keeps us healthy! Tonight when we came in from our visit our dinner was ready. Beef tibs was on the table and we lit up! We have made a great connection with another family staying here too (they have a daughter staying at the same home as Ty) and they had never had the traditional dish. They liked it, just like everyone else we have ever taken to have Ethiopian. Tibs are the BEST! Of course they don’t taste like my friend Debere’s tastes, but they were still good and a great way to end our day.
Another great way to end the day was with the Skype call we shared with Kendall and Mallory, Mom and Dad and Uncle Greg. Though our day was busy and at times stressful we were so looking forward to hearing from our girls. It is 7:30 p.m. here and we are exhausted. We have big ambitions to turn the computer into a movie screen and watch a flick, but we both know we’re just looking for a way to wind down and pass out! I’ll be sure to post Ty’s visit tomorrow. Prayers that he feels better tomorrow are appreciated. He’s a trooper! Very hard to leave my sick child there when I know how much better it is here. However, I know he’s getting good care with his nannies and am grateful for their commitment. Good night!

Ty Day!

2011-01-23T02:20:00.000-08:00

We arrived in Addis Ababa late last night. We were sooo tired, but of course our bodies were still on Tennessee time and wouldn't cooperate. We finally dozed off sometime near 1 a.m. Addis is 9 hours ahead of TN, so our sleep was not as sound as it should be. Maybe it was the barking dogs outside of our window, or perhaps the church on the mountain across from us that began it's holy day at 4:30 a.m., including blasting music and sermon from a very loud intercom system. Whatever the reason, we are attempting to rest a bit now, before we go back to Ty's house.
So at 9 a.m we were invited to visit Ty at the transiion home. As we entered the gates we got very excited! We are staying with another adoptive couple at the same Guest House and they had visited withh their daughter yesterday, so they gave us the scoop on what to expect. as we entered we were greeted with enthusiasm and they asked our child's name. We told them and they brought him to us. She immediately handed him to me and he cried, which we now know is a good sign that they understand bonding..so in a way it was music to my ears. Brian took pics and video, neither of which we can post yet, but soon! Ty didn't want to make eye contact at all,he was definitely confused. Then Brian took him, more photo and video opps. We passed him back and forth a few times,neither wanting to let him go he was soo sweet. When we first saw him we both commented on his size, because in his pictures he looked like a big boy, but in truth he is not that big at all. He is healthy though and hopefully we'll get to see his smile this afternoon when we go back.
After we had been holding him for about 30-45 minutes he fell asleep in Brian's arms. He was so cute! We did notice he felt hot and he had been tugging at his ear, which made us wonder if he was not feeling well. So we let him napand when the director of the transition home came to visit she noticed he was not himself. So right then she told us to get in the van as we were going to visit the doctor!So off we went, to Ty's doctor. That was an incredible experierience.The staff we so friendly and after the exam the doctor told us he was congested and had a red throat. He gave us a prescription and sent us on our way.We were there for a total of 15 minutes max, very fast. To describe the doctor's office would be nearly impossible, I can only say that they were friendly and it was small and would not ever pass inspection in the states. such a different way of life here, I am still trying to wrap my mind around it. While we were at the doctor's office we got his current weight, a healthy 20 lbs. And while we were there Ty began to play with my necklace, a good sign that we were making progress. Oh, and also while we weree there we took a tour of the infirmary , which is across the yard from the doctor's office. inside the 2 room bldg/lean-to was a 20 day old baby who had stayed the night hooked up to iv's because she could not keep food down.Whe was so small. To our delight they were unhooking her and she and her caregiver rode back the house with us, as she was going to be matched with a family soon. That was such a great moment to know that that child was being cared for and soon to have her forever family, I held Ty and said a prayer of thanks for them both.
We returned to Ty's house and took hime to his crib, as he was asleep again. He woke when Brian laid him down. He shares a small froom with 6 other cribs. His nanny took him and began to feed him luncnch. We have plans to go back to visit more this afternoon and hope that he has a bit more energy. On our way back from the doctore office we stopped on the side of the main road. Our friend (the director jumped out and ran into this shop. It was a pharmacy, with the most basic of meds I'm sure, and picked up the antibiotic prescribed by the doctore. Funny, if Kendall or Mallory had presented with a cold at 11 mos the doctore whould have said steam showers and fluids. And if they had said RX, we would have balked at it. Today were so grateful that they had any medicine for him.
Again, we still haven't gotten comfortable with the extreme situation here. It is amazing and bewildering. But I do want to say that the people we pass on the street and the people we have encountered at our Guest House, at the transition home, at the doctor's office..they are full of love! They smile, they laugh, they show concern for us..isn't that amazing, they show concern for us! I am humbled and grateful for this opportunity.
Ty is beautiful and you'll just have to take my word for it. Kendall and Mallory: we gave him your teddy bear and he loved it. We miss you both more than words can say. We have been told that when Ty is not sick he is truly a happy boy, and I think they were trying to say he may be a handful, but of course they wouldn't come out and say it. Good thing he has 2 big sisters to keep him happy!
will post more tonight is internet is working. Gonna grab a quick nap, or atleast try

'Tis the Season...

2010-12-17T08:19:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas time and our house is in full Christmas Camo! Our trees are decorated with new and old, with glass and glitter, with snowmen and seashells. We have treasured knick knacks given by friends and made by our little angels. Each with it's own memory of Christmas' past. Our shrubs are lit, outdoor candy canes aglow, and two mini Christmas trees flock our front door. Candies fill the Christmas dish to greet guests and offer a parting gift to visitors. There are a few presents under the tree, along with a train set for little ones to see. And ofcourse our magic Advent box does not disappoint! Our little manger scene was a toy set given to the girls by their grandmother and all kids love playing with it. From entering our front door one might say we are ready for the great celebration!
You know what they say, "be careful not to judge a book by it's cover". For if you traveled past the front porch, down the decorated hall, through the scent of the cinnamon candle and past the beauty of the brightly lit tree you would find our bedroom. (insert Psycho scream here) I once heard a friend jokingly call her bedroom a frat house (not b/c of the fun but due to the mess) and that is EXACTLY what my bedroom looks like! Using your shoulder to push the door open you will be assaulted with the vision of wrapping overload! Overflowing containers of wrapping tissue, loosely rolled ribbon, tape (clear, packing, double sided), miscellaneous shirt boxes (good luck finding the matching pair!) and gift tags galore! Once you step over that chaos you will soon find yourself wondering what on earth all of those Kroger bags are doing in the bedroom. Fear not..there are no refrigerated items in there! That my friends is my brilliant disguise! All gifts are hidden in that quadrant, overlooked by wandering 7 year old eyes and dismissed by 4 year old curiosity as merely Kroger buys! B-R-I-L-L-I-A-N-T right? Unless you are a 37 year old woman needing a trip to the loo at 2 a.m. Then it becomes a test of agility. So far I've only one bruise. Not so bad. If you dare run the obstacle course (ironing board challenge is a doozy!) you'll find the pathway beside my bed that is at this moment storage for Kendall's new room, that has yet to be built. Her new bedding is lovely, sure to be a pleaser when given the chance to adorn her new bed..yet to be bought.
Now by this point you are wondering why you didn't tie on some of that ribbon to find your way back to the door. You might realize that yes, that is a bed beside you and you fling yourself onto the mound of covers (of course the bed isn't made..would it really make a difference??), you'll shimmy your way to the other side to find the only patch of carpet not covered with tinsel. Quickly look to your right, look for the shiny door handle and run for it! Careful, don't forget the wrapping boxes are there. Did I mention the cat? The sneaky, stealth-like black little hot-mess that likes to take a whack at unsuspecting bare feet while playing ninja under the bed? Hope you enjoyed your Tour de Roy. We are considering selling t-shirts...
We are totally absorbed in holiday happiness and madness! Loving every minute of it, well maybe not every minute. We are still looking for Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus that my great-aunt handmade...can't seem to find that Christmas container. And we're missing a few stockings that should be hung with care by now! The new cat is annihilating the glass ornaments one day at a time and the old kitty is puking daily due to his new diet of fake fir. My youngest has already asked if she has to wear that shirt again (she won't be able to wear this Christmas tree size 4 forever!!) and my oldest is asking more questions than I want to answer..can't we just have one last magical day?
So what do I hang on to you may ask...why do I do it? Read it again...it's really quite beautiful. Beautiful chaos, woven with great stories and memories of something other than ordinary. It's the effort, the knowledge that my chidren will one day, years from now, come home and ask why i didn't put the snowman on the shelf. Some random something that i won't think they paid attention to but they did. I know, I remember doing the same with my parents. It will be details that they remember that they leave here with and carry on with their families. It's the celebration of the best day of the year...the day you can't imagine not spending with the ones you love. All of them! And decorating for them, so that they know you want a party in Jesus' honor as a way to show your love to Him and to them. I'll take the chaos, the bruises, the sometimes snarly attitudes...as long as I get a chance to live vicariously through my children on Christmas morning, as long as I get a chance to connect with friends old and new, as long as I get to delight someone with a great gift, as long as I get to be delighted with others thoughtfulness, as long as my holiday centers around Christ and brings with it all of these things. That is why we all do it I believe. I do Believe.

Kendall, Mallory and Ty

2010-12-17T06:03:00.000-08:00

OMG!! (as my Brownie Scouts would say) I can't believe it's been over 5 months since my last post. So much has happened in that 5 months! Where to start...
The biggest news to date is the referral of our little boy. Let me try that again..The referral of our little boy!!!! Because of all the rules and legalities I am unable to post his sweet pictures, but I can attest that he is quite the cutie. His birth name initials are T and Y, and we really love the name so we're keeping it and his nickname (everyone in this family has a nickname!) is Ty. Our little guy Ty. He's a healthy and happy little boy who wasn't afraid to show his smile in one of the two pics we received. We recently booked our first trip to visit him, we go after the new year. We will have a few days to spend with him while he is still in the 'months old' stage of his life. When we return for him on the second trip he will likely have celebrated his 1st b'day. We are a little sad over that and truthfully we pray that somehow we get to be with him on his b'day...but either way we are happy to say we know his sweet face, how old he is and the precious little background that was shared with us. Blessings all around!
The girls are definitely excited about Ty's arrival. They already talk about him and even their friends are referring to him as if he is already here. It's really a treat to hear and watch. Kendall presented a report last week on Timkat. Timkat is the Ethiopian festival of the Feast of Epiphany. She told her class how this festival is the biggest, most celebrated in Ethiopia and lasts for 3 days. In remembrance of the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. ..hmm...I was just about to give a brief review of her report but I have a better idea. I'll video her and post it. She is really quite educated on the topic and would be able to deliver in a much better manner. I'll work on that today. Stay tuned...
Mallory has thrived in her Pre-k program and is sure to blaze a trail straight through Kindergarten. Her laugh has always been contagious but now she pairs it with honest to goodness humor and lights up the room. Today is her Christmas Program and she plays the ever popular role of 'the chicken'. Yep, there was a chicken in that barn, right there by the manger...go look it up...no time to argue this. She has voiced her own concern over being a 'turkey', we assured her that she was a chicken NOT a turkey, no way a turkey! For now she has accepted her chicken status, if only for the glory of being a level about the lowly turkey. Dear Play Director: We encourage you to stick with chickens to represent the fowl feathered friend of Jesus...we've noticed the chickens and turkeys have begun to separate themselves from one another, we have no idea why of course.

Birthday Wishes for Granma!

2010-07-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

We're home now and today is an 'in between' day. In between day seems to happen often here during the summer for sure! What is an in between day? This represents the one 'free' day we have in between two busy days (or visits in this case). We spent this weekend traveling home from Rhode Island, unpacking (still more to do) and yesterday we celebrated my grandmother's 86th birthday. Tomorrow Aunt Amy and cousin Aaron will arrive for a week of family time. So today..we'll be hanging out and catching up on household chores (bummer).
Let me pay respect to the coolest 86 year old woman I know..my grandma! She rocks! All of my life she has been the ideal best dressed Southern woman I know. She and my grandfather walked their lives together for over 50 years (my other grandparents did too!) and she was the ultimate housewife. Clean house, dinner on time, attention to detail and family gatherings fit for royalty! One of the more endearing stories is that when they got married she woke up an hour earlier than he did just so she could be dressed, hair fixed and make up on before he saw her. That lasted longer than you'd think! As a 20 year old she was gorgeous with dark hair and a dynamic smile. I have to think that my grandfather was dazzled by her smile and those flirty eyes. He too was a looker, very handsome and she adored him. Together they raised 2 daughters and to them family was everything. He died over nine years ago and she is still very much married to him. His passing left her reeling and it took her many years to figure out how to live in this world without him. But yesterday she celebrated her birthday surrounded by the family she lives for. Dressed in her full length dress, strappy, shiny sandals and jewelry (always jewelry) she brought in her 86th year with style...like she does everyday! When asked what her plans were after our luncheon she said she hadn't decided. I asked if someone was taking her out, would she be getting into any trouble. Her response, with a grin, was "noone can keep up with me". She is like a tall glass of iced tea..sweet southern iced tea. She is refreshing, she is comforting, she is just what we all needed on her birthday. My favorite part of her is listening to her. Her southern drawl makes me smile. It paints pictures of a white wicker swing on a plantation porch. Sun bonnets and peach jam. Tall glass of sweet tea and honeysuckle vine. It rolls off her tongue in a melodic way. Every now and again I get to visit with my Aunt Sara, her sister. Sara visits my grandmother (Dorothy) every couple of months and sometimes I get to see them chatting together. It's such a treat. Those two with their whisky slow cadence. It wraps you up, a warmth that soothes your senses and heightens your curiosity. Dorothy(Darathey)...Dot...Mom...Granma. Here's to wishing you a year full of all things good! And a prayer of thanks for you and all that you have blessed us with.

Block Island

2010-07-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

Today we headed over to Block Island. This island is a mere 13 miles away from Galilee..Point Judith, RI and by way of ferry takes approximately 50 minutes. So we packed our backpacks..3 to be exact and caught the 9:30 a.m. to the island. The ferry ride was a surprise for my girls as they had no idea what to expect. Their dad took them to the front of the ferry and they both leaned forward, as if Rose on the Titanic, in response to the whipping wind and the sea spray. They loved it! I enjoyed sitting quietly watching the Atlantic and all it's beauty.
Once we arrived we immediately set out sight seeing. We found a grassy path that meandered up a hill and so we followed it. This path led to a beautiful ocean view and a hidden path to the shoreline. We took in the sight and made our way back to the main loop. We found a little book store and cafe with outdoor seating. The girls hit the book store for new reading materials and post cards and the boy scoped out the menu. Before we knew it we had all plopped down at one of the outdoor tables and began reading/writing postcards and just lounging. Just like that..the island vibe had us lulled into relaxation. We sat there for over an hour! Enjoyed a few dishes from the cafe and loaded up on drinks. Then we decided we better find a beach..so off we went. We wound our way through the shops,stopping frequently.. until we found the state beach. Once there we laid out a few towels and the girls immediately began their competition of building the best castles ever!! Two hours passed before we knew it and we were packing up and hailing a taxi back to the shops. We picked up a few souvenirs, enjoyed ice cream and bought snacks for our ferry ride home. The ferry ride home was just as fun as the morning trek, but we were all feeling a little drowsy from all of that relaxing!
Tomorrow we head home and the girls are excited to get back to their own beds. I'm sure they'll be happy to see their toys too! They ask for their animals..Annie, Happy and Mr. Frank Jenkins nearly every day. I think it's safe to say we have had a blast here in Rhode Island! Nina is top notch vacation guide for the whole state and was always (ALWAYS) thinking of fun stuff for us to do. We ran out of time to do it all, but no one is disappointed. We'll just add it to our list for next time. And next time we'll have baby brother to share it with!

Wickford, Westerly, Watch Hill....and more!

2010-07-15T17:19:00.000-07:00

Once we finally slipped on our shoes yesterday we had already lounged away half the day! The rain had created a cozy morning indoors and allowed us the guilty pleasure of tossing all potential plans aside and enjoying a morning full of nothing but time. Ahh.. But alas..the rain stopped and our wandering ways kicked in. After little discussion we all piled into the car and headed to one of my favorite of all favorite places...Wickford RI. Of course it's loaded with boutiques, on the water and pleasing to the eye. But beyond that, The Grateful Heart store is located in Wickford. There was a picture taken of me and hubby nearly 14 years ago outside of The Grateful Heart store that is now on this blog and thus the name of this blog was retrieved. This time around I have 2 extra reasons for my grateful heart and we all stood under the sign for a new pic. One I'm sure to post as soon as I get home! We wandered down the flower filled streets, some of us window shopping while others were puddle jumping. We wound up by the bay feeding three very friendly ducks. My grateful heart was feeling quite content!

Today we roamed the Southern end of Rhode Island. We started off in Westerly. This little town was one of the first we took our girls to during our last visit 2 years ago. We loved the pizzeria and the Westerly Park. Hoping to duplicate the day we stopped first at the park. There we looked for the 'fairy tree'. It is a very old, magical looking tree whose branches sweep the ground. If you step through the branches you are welcomed to a canopy of shade and declarations of love that have been carved into the bark by many who no doubt thought the privacy romantic. My girls agreed, if Tinker Bell lives in Westerly RI this would be her tree. One of the highlights of our last park trip was the beautiful pond, full of water lilies and ducks. Unfortunately the pond had been drained. With many workers on sight we hope to see the pond in all it's new glory next year! After the park we decided not to have pizza but to seek out lobsta! We found ourselves at a local dive called Two Fishes where we plowed into fried clam strips, lobster bisque, warm lobster rolls and fried scallops. Though we were not raving about our experience we all agreed that they were generous with servings and the price was more than fair.
Next stop..Watch Hill. If you have any preconceived idea of what a historic New England town should look like, Watch Hill should live out your dreams. The homes are spectacular. Big, beautiful and breathtaking. The town is quaint and is home of the last flying horse carousel in the world. We enjoyed frozen treats and carousel rides. Took a stroll through the shops and many pictures around the docks. Every time I see a sail boat I want a picture of it..why is that? Luckily we got lost on our way out of Watch Hill and enjoyed an extra 20 minutes of beautiful scenery!
Once we found our way out of Watch Hill we then headed over to Quonochontaug Bay (say that!)for the kids to go clammin'. Earlier in the day Brian had been advised by a local to hit this area for easy access to clams and ease for the girls to maneuver. Low tide was 6 pm, we arrived at 4 pm. But there were many already walking out, so the Roy's joined. Another great adventure...clams, snails, horseshoe crabs, hermit crabs, the marsh...the girls really enjoyed seeing creatures from this coastal classroom!
We packed up and headed home, sandy and hungry. We didn't bring home quite the loot clammin' as we had crabbin'. But that's ok. Now we know what it's all about. Look out clams, we'll be back!

Rhode Island RULES!!

2010-07-14T08:37:00.000-07:00

This week we are visiting Nina (aka Brian's mom) in Rhode Island..truly a beautiful state! We flew in Sunday and the girls enjoyed the plane ride so much they wanted to do it again!! Lucky for us their grandmother was waiting for them, a golden carrot that lured them off their 'carnival ride'. Right away we found ourselves on an adventure. Nina had heard rumors of a farm opened for raspberry picking and away we went. I must say that the farms in South County Rhode Island are like none I've ever visited. In Tennessee we have a few wonderful, fun pumpkin patches we visit in October..maybe I should go during the summer and check them out? But really, the farm we went to Sunday (the Farmers Daughters Farm) was artsy and ornate, full of flowering plants, herbs, fruits, veggies..really over the top! Can't wait to post pictures. We left three overflowing pints heavier and $15 lighter. One can only guess how many raspberries left the vine and went straight into the bellies of the pickers..we gladly paid for the berries!
On Monday we headed into Massachusetts, Foxborough to be exact. Patriots Place was the destination..and what a destination indeed! Who needs a football game to go to a stadium when it shares a parking lot with some of the best shopping and eating around? We all had lunch together and then the two obsessed Patriot fans (the apple doesn't fall far) dropped the other 3 off at the movie theater while they toured, slack jawed, the Patriot's Hall of Fame. Those two were elated to experience that together, and I couldn't have been more relieved! The girls and I visited the most luxiourious, plush movie theater I've ever witnessed and settled in for 90 minutes of cartoon comedy in the movie Despicable Me. After the movie and the Hall of Fame, this car load headed over to reunite with an Aunt and 2 cousins.
What a fun night that was! We were greeted at the door with a cute little Grace yelling "Mommy...Kendall and Mallory are here!" Leave it to a kid to break the ice! Tears and laughter, smiles and hugs greeted everyone at the door. And then there was food! and food! It was such a nice evening. Brian reconnected with his cousins and they shared stories..old and new. Nina and Aunt Ethel were able to relive some old memories and though they are not sisters by law anymore, their memories were fond and their friendship runs deep. My girls were elated to meet another cousin, as was I. And did I mention the food? Let me brag on Aunt Ethel's culinary skills. Italian through and through, she woo'ed us with her antipasto and wow'ed us with her homemade meatballs. You know when you look forward to meeting someone new you tend to pray for something in common? Well..God gave us that and much more! I couldn't be happier for Brian and Kerin and David...for "Aunt Mickey" and "Aunt Ethel", for the newest in this story line Kendall, Mallory and Grace. I've said it before and I'll say it again..there is nothing so sweet as family. Nothing. We left happy and stuffed. Most importantly we left feeling blessed.
Tuesday was a day of new adventures. We lounged in the morning, then slipped on our swimsuits and headed for the beach. Toting chairs, blankets, towels, sunscreen, sand buckets and chicken legs...what? Yep, chicken legs..raw. Brian took the girls crabbin' and they had a blast! Dozens were caught with Brian's chicken leg tied to a piece of twine technique and the girls swift use of a net. The rain ended our day and sent us to the docks to buy lobsters (lobsta) and little neck clams. We brought home our loot (9 blue crabs they caught too!) and were treated to a feast fit for royalty! Kendall loves the clams! Mallory liked the lobsta..but she wanted most to play with the crabs. Once she realized she could pick them up (they had already seen the inside of the crab pot) she picked 2 to play with. What the heck..we let her. Where in Tennessee will she ever get a chance like that again right? And once again, another night of going to bed overstuffed and happy!
So today we're approaching lunchtime and everyone is still in their pj's! It's a rainy day and we've vetoed the trip to the aquarium. I'm sure there will be a trip out, just not sure where yet. Do not fear though..hungry we will not be! We have a long list of restaurants just waiting for us to visit...today will not disappointment!!

Lessons from a 7 year old

2010-07-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

My oldest seems to always find ways to stop me in my tracks. Most of those times it's to 'redirect' her behavior, if you know what I mean. But there are those moments that I find her to be the teacher and I am just excited to be privy of the lesson. Take yesterday for instance, lessons were plentiful! There was something that sparked her interest in making paper airplanes. Being the girl she is, there was detailed decorating and naming of the fleet. As they took their first whirls through the vast space known as the Land of Livingroom, both she and her little sister cheered with excitement. We went to the library, because if I'm nothing else I am definitely supporting an activity that means I can be a spectator, and we checked out an origami book claiming 'very easy' airplane directions. So much for hands off...our fleet then grew by half a dozen. By the time my husband came home there were 3 M.I.A.'s, 2 teetering on the edge of the ceiling fan, 2 more hiding behind the t.v. and many unrepairable. The kitchen was strolled with scrap papers and the super durable wing mender..aka scotch tape. We went out to eat, returned and sat outside at 9:00pm giving the survivors one last flight of the day. I was reminded how very easy fun can be. No computers, no t.v., no packet with 1000 pieces. Love that imagination!
Before the airplane obsession we met a few of my friends at Chik Fil A for lunch. Of course my girls went straight to the play structure, play first..eat last! They played for an hour, stepped out to let their waitress know their order (that would be me if you are confused) and then came out for a quick 10 to scarf down their chicken and fruit. Another 45 minutes later and Kendall steps out to tell me her friend Amber is leaving. "Oh really? Who is Amber?" I ask. "My new best friend, we've been playing together. She's Great!" Again..I investigate "Do you go to school together?" "No, just met her here." Best Friend?? Then she says, "Amber is coming over to meet you." Polite, must have a good mother, I think. Sure enough, cute little Amber comes over and gives Kendall a necklace, the same necklace she has around her neck. This child who met my child maybe 1 hour ago is giving her a parting gift!! She gives K a hug, K hugs back. Feeling caught up in the moment I whisper to K 'maybe you should give her one of your silly bands?' K looks at me like I've just grown a third eye and I realize that mother's shouldn't always take the glory...or be at fault. Nevertheless, the girls left Chik Fil A being changed by each other. What a great lesson. It doesn't take much. Everyone can give of themselves, one way or another. Your time, your ideas, your help, your laughter, your friendship, your necklace! Just to clear Kendall's name..she only had 2 silly bands on and each were given to her by her two bestest buds. She did say if she had others she would have shared. I'm going to just have to believe that...
So this morning we were getting ready for our day. The girls had eaten ice cream before bed last night and they had to wash their sticky hair this morning. K jumps in the shower and washes her hair. When it was time to condition I asked her how she was doing and she said "Just fine mom. I'm getting more mature you know?" Assuming she's watched an episode ICarly I just agree. Then she gets out and is drying her hair. I say "good job". She says "Yeh, I'm definitely getting more mature." Now I'm paying attention. I second that "I do believe you are." Ten minutes later as she's walking through the kitchen brushing her hair I hear her say to little sister "I'm getting mature." I'll bite. "What does mature mean?" I ask. She says "It just means I am getting older, growing up. Soon I'll be an adult."
I smile. She's right. But first I pray for more days of paper airplanes and 15 minute best friends..please. Mature, she's working on it. Phenomenal...she's got it.

Predictions..

2010-06-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

"But these things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, be patient! For it will surely take place. It will not be late by a single day." Habakkuk 2:3

While we were visiting the beach last week, we were walking into a store when out of the blue my oldest stopped me to ask what number we were. "What?" I asked, confused. She repeated "What number are we now...you know with Baby Brother". Oh..that number! Though we were miles away from home, he was continually on our minds. Many comparisons were made, predictions of the future. "Look how well these girls are doing in the water, that will make it easier when we get baby brother", "if we had baby brother here we would definitely not all fit into this van", "wonder if baby brother will play in the sand or will he be a water baby?" It was fun to guess and to have our friends around to share their own predictions. Some things would be more fun, others a bit more challenging..but all were met with great anticipation of the blessings we know he will bring to our lives. Though I haven't checked in a few weeks I do believe we are sitting at around 35..which made my oldest quite happy. Me too! The one thing I have been reminded of throughout this process is that it is in God's hands. His timing is always right. I love the last line of the above scripture..'It will not be late by a single day'. What a beautiful promise that is! We all are so excited to share our lives with him. Can't wait to take him to the ocean, to share my love of the beach with him. To holds his hands while his toes play in the sand. To hear him squeal with delight as we lift him over the waves. What a great day that will be! And for the record...I think he will be a water baby who loves to throw sand at his sisters!

More from TopSail

2010-06-10T20:50:00.000-07:00

Our trip ended this past Saturday when we headed toward home. We made sure to spend a little extra time with our toes in the sand and the girls enjoyed riding a few more waves before we hit the road. What a great trip we had! The day before leaving the Gardner's had one more special place to take us to. The Sea Turtle Rescue Hospital, just a mile down the road, was such a great experience. This little building housed (at the time) over 2 dozen rescued sea turtles..weighing between 40- 600 pounds! The girls all had favorites...Lenny the 400 lb. blind sea turtle, Boater the equally larger turtle who played with a red ball..in all we learned the near fatal stories of 5 of these very spectacular creatures and the dedication this small operation has to helping them all. There are only 2 Sea Turtle Rescue Hospitals in the US and we were fortunate enough to have the chance to get to meet these great folks..and turtles!
We enjoyed yet more yummy fare from my new favorite restaurant, Just Baked..also located less than a mile from the house. I think me and the girls could honestly live on Just Baked and Luna Pops if given the chance! One night Ang and I were able to steal away for an adult only meal (and a little retail therapy). Shopping first in Wilmington, then we crossed the International Waterway and entered Wrightsville Beach where we dined at a quaint little restaurant, South Beach Grill, and truly enjoyed the experience altogether. We couldn't have been happier...new clothes, wine and a fab meal...what a great time!
The last night the girls all painted their very own sand dollar (we purchased these). This craft was made even more special when Kayla cracked open an extra sand dollar and showed each girl the 'doves' inside, letting them each have one of their own. Special indeed.
As if it needs to be said, we will be returning to Top Sail Island. Maybe even this Fall, depending upon the circumstances that are hovering around the beautiful waters of Destin, Fl. Whether it be this fall or next spring, we are sure to retrace our steps as best as we can. We know the treasure that awaits us on this narrow strip of land!

Roller Skating Champions!!

2010-06-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

Tip of Top Sail Island

2010-06-01T20:08:00.000-07:00

Five Wandering Girls..tip of the island.

3 Roy Girls at Serenity Point

Taking a much needed break after our long journey.

Always up for a little fun..these girls had a great time!

Yesterday morning we woke up, grabbed a little b'fast, threw on our suits and headed to the end of the island. The Gardner Girls had another fun adventure lined up for us. We were to start on the ocean side of the island, walk to the very tip end known as Serenity Point and then continue our journey down the Sound side. By the top of the morning we were on the tip of the island..fun! The girls had their own mesh seashell bags and they loaded them with more than seashells..they found many cool crab shells, seaweed, sponges and even a skate egg sack..who knew? Oh..and a washed up (already very devoured by crabs) shark, about 3 foot long. Really, I can't say enough how very cool it is to experience the ocean with such knowledgeable guides! What a treat! At the end of our trip the girls were so tired from walking all they could think to do was to lie in the water..and that they did with much enthusiasm! We treated ourselves to an ice cream cone before lunch..indulgent is definitely the motto of this trip.
After dinner we decided to go to the local skating rink. This rink was opened in the 60's, above the post office in the town of TopSail. It has no air conditioning, but many window fans, hardwood floors and the cashier still uses the vintage cash register that no doubt was there from the beginning. Nostalgia at it's finest! The music was played on a record player using 45's. And although we were the only ones there, the rink master was quick to tell us we were skating in the wrong direction. My girls had never been to a skating rink, definitely not one out of the 60's, and they loved it! K was counting laps, I think she made over 15. M lasted about 4, took one big spill and still wanted to do more but her mom thought she had better end now while she still wanted to do more. Before we left they dimmed the lights (basically turned off the overhead) and the next thing we knew there was a magical silver disco ball spinning with green and red lights glimmering off of it. The girls squealed with delight..me and Ang took our victory laps, singing to Michael Jackson's Beat It. Afterward we went to the desk to make a request..for old time's sake. We were hoping for a little Hokey Pokey before we had to leave. Unfortunately the Hokey Pokey had been such a popular roller skating tradition that they had worn it out long ago. We would have to leave without the Hokey Pokey. As we walked down the stairs to the parking lot we were tired, worn out and oh, so happy. Music or not..we put our 'whole self in and (we) shake it all about!'.

The Sound Adventure

2010-05-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

More pics of our trip to the sandbar in the sound at TopSail Beach.

Kendall and one of her many sea creature finds..she is on top of the world!!

This is Mally's Spindly Starfish...what a neat experience!!

Summer = Sand

2010-05-30T19:05:00.000-07:00

The girls netted thier first sand crabs.

Mally showing off her sand dollars and large shell.

First day and these babes were ready for the beach!

K showing off her new goggles..and her missing front tooth.

We kicked off our summer early this year..yippee! School was officially out this past Friday but with approval from the teacher (and principal..geesh the hoops) we headed out Wednesday right after K's first grade awards ceremony. We were invited to join our friends on a road trip to Topsail Beach NC. It was perfect timing because my dear sweet husband had planned to build another bedroom in our house for baby brother. So he was able to get everything together to start the day we 3 girls headed out. Yep..that's right..he stayed home and we hit the road! Our trip was spread out over 2 days, and the girls were good as gold. We arrived around 3 on Thursday, in our suits and on the beach by 4. Finally came in for dinner sometime around 6. The Gardner Girls have been the most generous hosts and each day has been a new adventure..in the most laid back way! We are loving it!! We've had lots of beach time (a few sunburns to prove it), built sandcastles and dug out pools for mini aquariums to house the sand crabs and tiny fish the girls have netted. We've enjoyed our first Luna Pop..local popsicle store with the most unique and tasty frozen treats (we had pineapple, chocolate chocolate chip, blueberry, pomegranate blueberry). We are hoping to sneak in another trip (or 2) to Luna Pop before we leave. We've had a little retail therapy, always good for 7 girls roaming around. Last night there was a movie in the park and we hauled out our blankets and beach chairs...before the show the girls competed in a hula hoop contest and although they didn't win, one of our own (Savana) came in 2nd and everyone was reward with laffy taffy. Our most memorable moment thus far was yesterday's trip to the Sound. Just a few miles up the road we parked at a dead end street looking out over the Sound. It was low tide and there in the middle was a sandbar that spanned longer than we were able to walk. We waded over to the sand bar and once there the discoveries were plentiful. My girls caught hermit crabs (dozens each), they found sand dollars (over 20), mollusks, a large blue crab was caught (many more spotted and one even took a shot at Kayla's toe), a sea urchin (Yes!! a SEA URCHIN!!) and our favorite discovery was the Spindly Starfish. The girls found many small spindly starfish, but a lady that Mally befriended handed her one larger than her hand and let me tell you Mal was the hit of the show with that thing!! Our time here has been such a wonderful gift, so easy and so rewarding in all aspects. We're sure to leave here with memories to last a lifetime and no doubt a yearning to return for more!!

Nashville Flooding May 2010

2010-05-06T19:54:00.000-07:00

Response to Russian Issue..

2010-04-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

By now most have heard of the mother from Tennessee who sent her adopted son back to his homeland in Russia. And we are now aware that the Russian Government has suspended all international adoptions indefinitely. This is devastating for all involved. There are so many opinions floating around..I'm not without a few myself. Before we get to mine, I feel the need to vent about those that make my skin crawl. This is my blog and so I get to do this. If you disagree with me and wish to comment such just know I will delete your comment. It is my blog. Get your own. If you have found yourself saying such things as "why don't they just adopt from the U.S. anyhow?" (don't forget the nasty snarl) or "of course he was violent, he's been in an orphange most of his life" or "well that lady was obviously just shopping around" then you have made my skin crawl..congratulations. There are countless others that have made me cringe and sent me praying for grace. In those moments I am aware that there is a bigger picture that we have yet to see, and perhaps we will never know. MY opinion in the matter (know you've been waiting)is layered. Since I am in the process of adopting it is fresh for me. You DON'T get a child without jumping A LOT of hoops. The adoptive families home study is so in depth and so personal that I can't imagine how anyone could not be absolutely positive about the decision to adopt a child. HOWEVER this does happen..though not very often. And when it does it is devastating. You don't get to just hand them back and usually with counseling the family unit is preserved and the dream is revived. With lack of real knowledge let's just stick with what we have read. The family (mother) had reason to believe the adopted son was violent and was putting her other children in jeopardy. On that statement alone we can understand the need to do whatever she could to protect the others. To Protect Her CHILDREN. He was adopted by her family and legally her child. IF he was extremely violent, then there are much more appropriate steps to getting help than sending him home with a note of rejection. Maybe she had already tapped into those resources and felt she was not being listened to. If that is the case then I feel very sorry for her and her family. We all know our Department of Child and Family services are a joke. But where was her agency? Her homestudy counselor? What if the boy flew under the radar and ended up in Tennessee with severe anger issues, and noone knew? I doubt that would be the case, someone knew...but did they decide that a loving home would fix it?? Thus putting the adoptive family in jeopardy? Scary stuff. But take just the facts as they are..he was their son legally. And legally we are obligated to seek out help for our children when they need it. Leave no stone unturned. The steps they took to get themselves in the public eye have proven to be the wrong ones. No surprise there. Since I am not in their shoes I will not pretend to know what went on in their house. There is definitely a side of me that says 'yes, if anyone stepped into my home and physically assaulted my daughters I would stop at nothing to protect them' and then maybe I'd be on the front page too. But for me..my son has not been introduced to me yet and I have already accepted this child as my own..equal to my daughters. And yes, there is fear that we may have bonding issues, that he may come with some 'wiring' issues that won't show themselves until he is in my care, or with age he becomes aggressive because of the race difference. I know of these things because of the rigorous interrogation we underwent to get to where we are with our adoption. And for the record..you go through the same stuff if you adopt in the U.S. and yes..the same issues have been known to show up in white or black 'American' born children. Please..turn on the 5 o'clock news and you can see what our violent/angry/non-bonding American kids are doing. Don't be stupid. Be kind..show mercy and pray for this family and those that have been negatively affected by these poor choices. Poor choices are just that and the beauty is we can rectify them. We just need to be open to doing so.

Bring on the Sun..please?!

2010-03-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

First day back to school went something like this...
My personalized alarm clock woke me 15 minutes before my digital one..mad dash to the loo and back to my last few minutes of coziness before my digital one interrupted me. Hit snooze a ridiculous amount of times. Hubby agrees to wake the first grader, get her morning started while I stole 25 minutes more of warm, coziness. 15 minutes before she needed to be out the door I drag myself from the bed, make empty threats in hopes of getting her to brush her hair and resort to meeting her at her own maturity level. 7 a.m., hubby and first grader out the door. I climb back in bed. Oh..the four year old is now awake. I forgot. She needs milk, cereal in a bowl (she's very particular) and Tom and Jerry on the tube. I do my duties, then climb into bed. We do not even attempt to move around until after nine a.m. She's a girl after my own heart, I love her so. For the record, I am convinced that had the sun been out and not the threat of 'wintery-mix' (what the ??? wasn't it 70 two days ago?) that my morning would have ..perhaps.. gone smoother. I may have even gotten out of bed in hopes of doing a little exercise. Maybe not. We'll never know now will we? I NEED the sun! Really. I'm so over it! Bring on the rays..I'll even let 'em burn me a little. It is March 22, we are officially into Spring. By over 24 hours! What's the hold up here??
On to more exciting news. Our adoption agency received referrals for 6 sweet babies today. 5 boys ranging in age from 7 1/2 weeks to 22 months old. One baby girl. The parents of the boys waited an average of 10 1/2 months for their referrals. If you're keeping count, like we are, you will be excited (as we are) because we now have moved down to #51! Almost out of the 50's! Will keep you posted..

Spring Break Bliss

2010-03-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

Spring Break at our house is a gift to not only the kids, but mom too! Truly I believe that it must have been a woman, a stay at home mom kind of woman, who said one day "I can't wake up one more morning, pack one more lunch, assist with one more assignment until I have a full week of rest, or two" and thus the Spring Break Fairy was born. Because of the county we live in we are granted not one but two weeks off. Bliss.
How have we spent our days? The last official day of school my oldest and I attended a Girl Scout overnighter..much fun indeed. So totally exhausted when we came home I crawled into bed at 5:30 and didn't get up until the next morning. The next few days were spent just hanging out, sleeping in late, trying to get the house in order. On Tuesday we decided to take a road trip! Yay! Thursday we headed to Illinois, stayed 2 nights in Lisle, IL, right outside of Chicago. We took the train into Chicago, had a dinner party with our American Girl dolls (hubby was sooo stoked about that!), and visited the Adler's Planetarium. Then we drove down to Indianapolis, stayed two nights and enjoyed our time there with a trip to the Indianapolis Children's Museum and an indoor water park. While there my hubby had searched out an Ethiopian restaurant, and aside from getting lost in the area we are quite sure was not visitor friendly on the not so great side of downtown, the experience was Fantastic and the food wonderful.
We've been home for 3 days now. My youngest seems to have picked up Fifths Disease from someplace..my best educated medical guess (all moms come with a license to diagnose). No worries there, it has not slowed her down. My oldest is enjoying her last few days of lounging. We all stayed in bed until 9:30 a.m.! It's 5:45p.m. and we're eating popsicles! I don't have a clue what I'm making for dinner..what's the rush? The sun is still shining and the day just seems to linger on. I. Love. it. Hoping the hubby gets home with enough time to enjoy some of this laziness..maybe he will declare a Spring Break for all others, encouraging all workers to take a spring break. He could be the modern day Spring Break Fairy!! Guessin' he won't find the joy in that title the way I do.

Ethiopian Gov't passes new travel requirements..

2010-03-10T20:39:00.000-08:00

We received word today that the Ethiopian Government has changed the way it's doing adoptions and as of today if you are adopting from Ethiopia you will be required to travel on 2 separate occasions. Yikes! The first trip is expected to only take 3 days, just enough for you to see the child and accept him/her in person. Apparently there has been some instances where adoptive parents arrive to pick up their child and decide against the union..for whatever reason. I know, I know..what the *&#@! are they thinking? But since we don't really know the whole story we'll just have to pray the kids have found their forever families as was meant to be. Let me back up...up until today you filed paperwork for adoption in Ethiopia, got on the 'list' (that's where I am..incase you haven't read the latest), and the next step is your referral. The agency contacts you with a referral, you have a few days to review it and either you accept or decline. The instances of declined referrals are minimal because of all of the up front paper work you fill out with all of your requests, including all of the medical issues you are willing to tackle with your child..it really is quite a mental drain but there is a reason for it and your referral should reflect what your dossier paperwork has approved you for. Once you accept the referral, then your agency has someone in country to represent you at the court hearings, which will be scheduled somewhere around 2-3 months after accepting the referral. Have I lost you yet?..hang on I'm almost done! Then after they have had the court date and you have been officially, legally declared guardian , THEN you make your flight arrangements and head over to Addis Abba Ethiopia to pick up your little gem! Now, we looked at MANY different avenues, explored both domestic and international adoption..private and open..same race and interracial..boy or girl..etc,etc. You can't imagine the possibilities until you have it right in front of you. We knew we were meant to adopt, very much convinced it was part of our family plan from the beginning, but we didn't know how or where or who or when or any of that stuff..so it took us a while. In the process we learned that travel was an issue we needed to address with regard to having 2 young children staying behind. Ethiopia was great because the travel was minimal..7 days max. In and out. Our girls would think they were enjoying a vacation, not separation. Perfect! We looked at other countries that required 2 or 3 separate trips to the country before you were able to bring your child home. Also a few others required you to stay in country for weeks, some months before allowing you a court date to take your child home. Now I should say that all of these countries have their way of doing things and many people adopt from there every year so it's not a bad arrangement for some..but it wasn't what we were comfortable with. Again, Ethiopia looked great! But as I mentioned today has revealed a new chapter in our adoption story. We will be waiting to hear more from our agency, to get the details and to find out if this is permanent for the country (one who needs adoptive families worse than anyplace I can imagine) and praying that it does not deter others from choosing this path. So where do WE stand now? Funny thing..when I rec'd the email I was a bit shocked and thought 'oh no, wonder what my husband will think about that" and immediately I said to myself..if one of my daughters was across the world I would travel there every week for as long as they'd let me in order to see her and bring her home. Of course we'll go there, he's there and that's what we are meant to do, we must go to him as often as we can until we can bring him home. We'll just need a new plan, one that includes a little more money, a positive attitude and as always prayers. Oh and for my husband..he came home and said to me "kinda stinks but I'm excited to have another opportunity to visit..maybe we can turn it into some sort of mission trip too, see what we can help out with while we're there." That man..he's got my heart in his hands.

Officially on the List!!

2010-03-09T10:40:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday, March 4th, we received the email from Children's Hope International stating that our dossier made through the U.S. Secretary of State and the Ethiopian Embassy and now has returned to St. Louis (C.H.I.) and we are officially on the list. Yay! This was very exciting news. We really didn't expect the call until the next week, possibly another full week. What a blessing! So what does it mean to be 'officially on the list"? It means that instead of running around gathering documents, you get to wait..officially. Hmm. Not a very patient person by nature, but this is a process I'm trying to embrace. My friend Angie has already pronounced me prego and has encouraged me to 1. no heavy lifting 2. eat like a maniac and 3. indulge, indulge, indulge! Definitely sounds appealing! But I'm hoping with this 'pregnancy' I don't lose my mind and my waist as I did with the last 2!
Back to 'the list'. My first response after reading the email was to pick up the phone and call the agency for more details. She informed me that we were #60. What??!! (elated!) I thought we would be around #100, that is what we have heard is pretty typical. But #60!! We're 40 spots ahead of the game!! Another blessing..absolutely! And then on Friday three more families rec'd referrals that week, so now we're #57! On each Friday our agency sends out this wonderful email updating everyone on new referrals and all sorts of great information relating to the process. We love these emails! Now, because I know my #, I can use that information and move myself on down the list. Fridays just got a little better. There is a trick though, and it's complicated..the easiest way to explain it is that if 10 referrals are handed out, it doesn't mean those who hold spots #1-#10 get the referrals. The children get matched up to the families based on their needs and that which the family has been approved to provide for. So for now we'll use the Friday emails to keep check of our progress and when we get down to what we believe to be #30 we'll call our agency, get our accurate # on the list and from then on we'll probably call every 10 referrals or so. Our agency said they would give us our number any time we wanted..just needed to email or call. That was NOT a door they need to open for me...I'm going to show considerable restraint to NOT call weekly!
Right now the average wait for a baby boy (we are requesting 18 mos or younger, we hope for under 12 months old)is approx 11 months. After the referral is given, then we wait 3 months for travel. But WE are #60..oops #57!! Praying for less than a year for the entire process. Here's something to consider..in Feb 2010 they had a large number of families matched..16 familes (19 children total) were matched. Do the math..if we can average 15 families a month (a pure guess based on one month I know, but go with me here) then we could potentially get a referral sometime this summer. I KNOW, I know. Keep my head right? Stick with the average, 11 mos referral. But I can't help it. I'm pregnant remember..I'm indulging!

Off and Running

2010-02-26T07:51:00.000-08:00

Our paperwork did arrive as the FedEx guy promised before 10:30 yesterday. Nicky (our adoption coordinator) emailed me to let me know. After she combed through it she found one issue that was easily remedied with a notarized letter from Brian and I clearing up the confusion. So it's off and running..literally! They sent it by courier to D.C. to the Secretary of State for certification yesterday. After that it goes to the Ethiopian Embassy and once they review and certify then back to our agency and we'll be notified that we're officially on the list! YAY!! Very exciting times here!

$35 gets it going...

2010-02-24T16:24:00.000-08:00

We finally finished all of our paperwork! YAY!! So yesterday I spoke with my agency, we went through all of my paperwork and she declared me officially ready to send! YIPPEE! So she says..."If you send it to me and it gets here by tomorrow before 3:00 then I'll be able to review it and send it on to the courier service who will take it to Washington and then to the Ethiopian Embassy, after which it will return to me and you'll be officially on the waiting list." I said..no problem! Headed to FedEx where I spent $10 coping everything and felt terrible each time I messed up thinking about all of those trees I was wasting. My guilt is due to my oldest's declaration to not use so much paper during Lent, which seems innocent enough except I think she may have a ulterior motive that has something to do with homework. Anyhow... Then my friendly customer service FedEx guy helped me package it. At first he suggested an envelope, my furrowed brow must have clued him in that I needed something more sturdy...and since his armored car was not an option he proceeded to bubble wrap it and box it up with additional wrapping tucked in for good measure. For $35.00 he has promised me it will arrive in St. Louis by 10:30 a.m. today (Thursday), giving my girl plenty of time to look it over and get it on to the courier. So now...I just wait. All this time I've been saying how doing the paperwork chase has been the most difficult, the wait should be no problem since I have 2 little ones to keep me busy. But the truth of the matter is I'm already wondering if she'll email me as soon as she gets it!!?? Or should I call her to confirm..at 10:30? Oh the waiting!!!

New Year's Resolution

2010-01-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

So midnight came and went and so did my 'Declaration for the New Year'. My hubby and I had discussed that we were definitely ready for a kitchen clean out and diet reorganization. New Year's Day was on Friday. Not a good day to jump start such a venture, atleast that's what we thought. So Sunday was the day to clean out and Monday was the launching day. We enjoyed our last days of snacking and gluttonous behavior and then Sunday arrived. Lots of stuff found the trash can and I could actually see the shelves of my fridge! Monday (4th) started great for both of us...Tuesday equally good... Wednesday not so good (church group meeting, b'day celebration)..Thursday started over...Friday morning good, lunch good, dinner blow out! Then it's Saturday. Our diet makeover was intended to work Mon-Fri, but Sat and Sunday we figured we'd lighten up a little, enjoy our weekends with the kids meaning eat freely. The thought was that we would get ourselves under control Mon-Fri and by Saturday making good choices would be easier for us. Saturday- bacon, eggs for b'fast, lunch at Abay (lots of injera and beef tibs), dinner at Wasabi (excessive amt. of yummy rice, shrimp, veggies). Sprinkled in between were cookies, candy and even topped of with volcano cake (in my defense it was a low calorie cake!). Sunday I went to 2 baby showers honoring 3 different ladies...ate cake at both, enjoyed sugary punch and dipped anything I could find in the rich Ranch! Oh...and I finished off the Wasabi meal from the night before. Dinner was broccoli and Crab legs...and LOTS of water!
So here it is Monday and I KNOW I have to get my head on straight. So I started out thinking "Gym Today". Ended up going upstairs and pounding the treadmill. 2 miles on that machine is torture! I can't stand it! But I did it...2.25 to be exact. Ran half walked half. Felt so motivated that I then came downstairs (after a 20 minute panting cool down, standing still) and registered myself for the Moosic Dash (Purity Dairy, downtown). The choices were 5k or 10k. Must have jostled my brain in my 2.25 mile punishment because before I knew it I had hit 10k, paid the fee and committed. What?!? OMG!! My friends Jen and Jo are doing it...must have been peer pressure? Wish me luck! Better yet..go sign up and join me! www.puritydairies.com/dairydash

First Snowfall of 2010

2010-01-08T12:46:00.000-08:00

Though we were hoping for 3 inches of snow, we received barely a "dusting" of snow. But these girls weren't at all disappointed! From making snow angels to making a snowman, catching snow on the tips of their tongues and just plain scooping up a handful to have a frozen treat (yikes!), frozen toes, fingers and frozen noses! They both came in shivering with chill in their bones and excitement in their eyes. It may be just a dustin' of snow, but to these snow angels it was a Winter Wonderland!

Christmas Spirit

2009-12-05T11:18:00.000-08:00

I was talking to my friend Courtney and the conversation quickly turned to our kids and the Christmas season already upon us. We were sharing our family's traditions and swapping ideas when we both concluded that we should blog our ideas to share with others in hope that we could hear what others do to keep Christmas Spirit going through December. I hope that if you read this entry you feel led to comment and share either an idea or just a great story to bring some Christmas Cheer!

In our home we have an Advent Calendar. Really it's an Advent Box. Our oldest had dubbed it the 'Magic Box' and both of my kids delight in it every day in December until Christmas Day. Our first Magic Box literally fell apart last year. I forgot to get a new one until Dec 3. I told the girls I found a package on the front porch, couldn't believe what it was..a New Magic Box!! K was over the top with excitement! Made me feel guilty I didn't send it before then. But her excitement was contagious and before I knew it I was giddy thinking about the treats that wait inside. Our Magic Box magically produces treats daily, at random times. The girls may check that little house (looks like a house) 10 times before the treat arrives. I try to sneak it in sometime around dinnertime, before bedtime at least. The cubby holes for each day are pretty small but I can usually squeeze in 2 small items like small chocolates, stickers, mini fingernail polish, bell necklace, tatoos (nothing says Christmas like a Poinsettia on your kids face!), a special note(could be on the day Rudolph is playing and the note read "ask Mom to pop popcorn and watch my Favorite Movie, love Santa), and even those little snowmen you place in water and watch grow. I also include some items that are too big for the cubbies and those may have a string running from that date around the side of the box to reveal the treat. This year there will be a Grinch Christmas DVD, Christmas Coloring Book, lollipops, Christmas socks, hairbows and a new Christmas book. This simple little 'magic' box has the ability to light up my children's face each and every time they discover their treat. They believe Santa has some sort of direct line to their Magic Box. In a way I guess that's not a lie now is it? Santa's real helper is Target as they have Magic Boxes on sale right now...HO, HO, HO!!

One more...this is not from my family but one that was shared by an acquaintance...

One Christmas Santa left her nephew a bell and a letter. The letter read something like "Please listen to the bell for when it rings I will know if you are being naughty or nice, and so will you. If you hear the bell and you've been nice then there will be a treat for you. If you're being naughty there will be no treat and Santa will know." This lady lives with her sister, nephew and their mother. Lots of Santa's helpers around strategically locating that bell throughout the year to remind the little boy that Santa is always watching. Apparently it works pretty well too!

Giving Thanks

2009-12-04T10:14:00.000-08:00

To recap our Thanksgiving holiday: We spent the day with my family and over eating (as is custom), followed by several nodding off on the couch while others perused the sale ads making plans of early morning shopping sprees. My girls went to my parents for the night so that me and hubby could conquer the crowds. At 6 a.m. our neighbor called, she was only hoping we were up..we were, even dressed to head out! She offered a bit of Target shopping advice and off we went. At the end of the day we had purchased more for ourselves than anyone else. "Isn't that against the rules?" I asked. Hubby assured me his purchase of 2 coats (1 for work 1 for play of course), jeans, slacks, shirt, 15 inch t.v. and dual d.v.d. players were too good of a deal to pass up thus allowing us to save more money allowing us more funds for Christmas gifts. I love him. Those same kind 'Target Advising' neighbors came to our rescue half way through our morning. Dear hubby dropped me off at the entrance of Target and went in search of the best parking spot. Apparently it was during this time that he realized his wallet was missing. In his search for the wallet he stepped out of the van, to look under the seat, and laid his keys on the seat. For whatever reason he decided to give up the search, hit the locks and close the door. Keys still on the seat. We were 30 miles from home. I did not have my keys (lesson learned). Kind Target Advising neighbor picked us up, took us home, returned us to the scene all without once saying anything slanderous. Good neighbor. Wait...he did point out that HE had NEVER locked HIS keys in HIS car. Karma is a bitch, hopefully his good deeds will deflect her!
All in all our weekend was fabulous. We went in search of the perfect Christmas Tree and found her. I'm quite sure it is a "her", she's very pretty and truly appreciates all of the bling. We snuggled on the couch and enjoyed a 2 hour movie...with both kids! Enjoyed left over turkey and ham all weekend and loved it!
What a perfect weekend to kick off a Thanks Giving attitude for sure! I am always excited to enter the Christmas giving season, especially now with my girls at ages 6 & 3. What a blast this will be! But before I move to that mind set I just want to remember my blessed life, my truly wonderful husband, these 2 little angels in my home, friends who light my path daily (especially those that drive 60 miles to get my keys), my family who make holidays the best!, the food that nourishes our bellies, the word that nourishes our soul, the farm that took the time to grow and trim our tree, the teachers that assist us with imparting more knowledge in our angels, the clerks who woke early and still offered a smile (wow!), and as always I am in thought of the woman whose son she will soon share with me...the blessings keep pouring down and my grateful heart continues to overflow!
Although Thanksgiving is gone I am still in a 'Thanks Giving' mood. I believe there is no coincidence that such a lovely holiday precede such a giving holiday!

Boy Names and Board Books

2009-11-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

We are still trying to get all of our paperwork done..waiting on a few last pieces and then we'll be able to send off for all of the appropriate stamps. There's a LOT of steps! We recently met a couple who are adopting from Ethiopia and they have recently received their referral. They have a six month old daughter and the adoption should pass the courts in another month or so and then they will be able to make arrangements to go and pick her up. It's so inspiring and motivating to hear how close they are! We are so happy for them! I hope to get some pics of her to share..as she is beautiful! Unfortunately they are not able to "share" any photos until after the court date, that is when they are officially recognized as her parents. That is a precaution that the Ethiopian adoption system insists upon, in an attempt to protect the privacy of the child.
Although we don't yet know him, haven't even been put on the list yet, we don't know where he's from exactly or what day he is (or will be) born, we can't see his smiling face yet...but we Roy's know we have a baby brother out there somewhere. His sisters talk about him as if he is here but away on some extended vacation. It's very sweet really. M has a gift bag she is recycling in her room. In it she puts any book or toy she thinks her baby brother may like to play with that she is no longer playing with. So far she has collected board books, musical books, her favorite crib aquarium toy and various toddler toys. We have bought him a few items...a bath toy (that it is still in it's package is a miracle as his big sisters really want to try it out), some shoes and a few pieces of clothing that my friend was selling and I couldn't pass up! Anyone who knows me knows that I am doing well to not have a closet full of clothes for him already! I'm trying to save that for the end. I'll call it a Celebratory Mission, and shop like crazy!!! K continues to pray for him during her bedtime prayers, for his safety and sweet dreams. She has started listing names that she would like for us to consider for him. One of our neighbors loaned us a baby names book and K immediately took it to her room. About once a week she brings down a list for us to discuss. The last name was Bobby...uh....momma wasn't feelin' it... but she liked it so it stayed on the list. Once we get a true list then I'll blog the names, but until then I'll let her keep the list of names. A few of her faves are Alexander, Aaron (both of these are her cousins names by the way), Billy, Bobby, Brady (her dad likes this one), Colin, Cooper, David, Drew and Deven. Slim pick'ins for her mother's taste! Good thing we're still on D's!

As for B and I, well we just keep pluggin' away at the everyday stuff. We know He has a master plan and we'll keep looking for His direction.

Princess Ball

2009-11-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

Once, while watching the tube, I caught Gwenyth Paltrow talking about her dad. She was sharing a special memory. From what I can remember...Her dad had flown her to Paris, took her to the most elegant restaurant and reserved the table with the most beautiful view. He then asked her if she knew why he brought her there. Curious, she admitted that she did not. He explained that he wanted to make sure that she was able to experience the most beautiful city and share it with the man she who she would know always loved her. I loved this. So..being the romantic that I am I told my hubby he would have to do the same thing with our girls. Although he understood the importance, I think he decided that perhaps flying them to Paris would be over the top. We'll see. But this definitely made us both begin to think of ways that he could be purposeful in his quest to be very active in his daughter's lives. Creating a great bond and also giving the girls high expectations for the men they choose in the FAR OFF future.

He recently had the opportunity to take my oldest to her first dance. They attended the Princess Ball hosted by the Girl Scouts. Mothers were only allowed if daddy's couldn't make it, so I was banned from attending. Thank goodness I was able to grab a few pics of the beauty and her date before their carriage pulled away. The girls had a great time and the dads seemed to be thrilled with the night too. Catered meal, a DJ, crafts, pictures and dance contests left these princesses with many wonderful memories! One of K's best friends won the Twist Dance Off with her daddy...proud moment I'm sure. For me, my favorite moment was watching my husband give K a charm bracelet. He himself picked out the charm..the hand sign for I LOVE YOU. Very special to them both as that is a sign often shared between the two. K's delight at the sight of the shiny bracelet was priceless and melted her date's heart (and her mom's too). Brian's favorite part was dancing with his little girl to Butterfly Kisses which has always been a favorite for him. K loved it all, from beginning to end!

Who knew such a simple concept could make such a huge impact. The Princess Ball will definitely be a night they will always remember.

Adoption Update

2009-10-04T20:48:00.000-07:00

It seems like the last leg of the process is really dragging out! Last month we had completed our homestudy and after reviewing it our case worker forwarded it to our placing agency for approval. Let me explain that this is just a formality as we had already been preapproved months ago..but it's all part of the process. So, we waited. And waited and waited. Finally after over 2 weeks I began to call. By 3 weeks I was concerned and decided to call the placing agency. Our contact there had not seen our homestudy. So I called our case worker Julie and left a message stating my new information. Upon getting the message she called them, and me, and explained that she had in fact sent it weeks before. For whatever reason the homestudy was sent or delivered (still not sure) to the wrong desk. Apparently it was in limbo, but finally landed in the right hands and was approved the same day. So now that the homestudy has been 'officially' approved we can move forward on all of our notarized documents. I have been working on these and have a few left to complete. Our placing agency will review them before we send them for authentication (there are many steps for each document..let's just say they are well traveled!) and once they are authenticated they will be bundled and our dossier will be created and then sent to Ethiopia. Once the Ethiopian embassy receives and approves them THEN we will be put on the waiting list. Back in May when we first started the time to complete an Ethiopian adoption was 1 year, including the homestudy time. That is to say that adoptive parents could expect to BRING HOME a baby in 12 months time..beginning to end. Now it is running 1 year from the time you get on a the waiting list just to get a referral. Then there is another 2-4 months of waiting before travel. Our dream of bringing home our little guy in 2010 is beginning to fade. However, this international adoption process is a funny thing. Things change so fast. It's hard to predict what will happen for us. We just continue to pray that not one extra day is lost in our time with our son. We know God has laid it upon our hearts to pursue this avenue and so we look forward to the day we meet our next child He has in store for our family.

20 years Overnight!

2009-09-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

Aren't we Totally Cool...like...for real!

What would the 80's be without Michael, Madonna and Big Hair Hollie?

Check out those leggings...I'm bummed you can't

see my pink and black tennis shoes!

Oh what a night..
Last night I attended one of our neighborhood Ladies Night Out parties. I should try to be refined and call it a Ladies Night Out Event or Gathering..but let's call it what it is..A Party! The theme was 80's Night. What a blast! I found myself scrunching, spraying, teasing, spraying, lifting, spraying and flat out frying my hair just to get the same effect it had 20 years ago. I bought a bright pink and black animal print shirt, black torn leggings and pink/black tennis shoes(closest thing I could find to Vans). My friend Jo had a black mini and my outfit was complete! I even scared myself. Brian chuckled, Mal was confused and K said I looked like a Rock Star. (Proof that it's never too late to be a Rock Star!) I crawled out to my van hoping I didn't frighten my elderly neighbors and picked up another 80's babe and off we went. There were sooo many great outfits..one lady brought a cell phone from the 80's (ridiculous really), there were many preppies and lots of shoulder pads. Several other rock stars were there. Lots of neon, an Olivia Newton John wanna-be, Michael J had a fan, Madonna was well represented, tight rolled jeans and of course Lots of BIG HAIR!! We just laughed all night! Well..when we weren't singing karaoke to Lucky Star, Summer Love, Brick House and other great tunes from the best time ever! Food was even well represented with chicken nuggets, pizza rolls, and even aerosol cheese! What a great night. Then I woke this morning, 20 years older with hair from hell. Took 4 shampoos and 2 conditionings to make it lay down and soft. Kendall wanted me to style it like that all weekend. I promised her that when her time comes I'll be sure to pass on my technique.
So here it is Saturday night, almost 10:00 and everyone is in bed..while i wait for paint to dry. Seriously. That's what happens when you're 36, married, with kids, on a Saturday night. I woke this morning and decided we should paint the house. Lucky for me my not-so-ambitious husband agreed to only attacking the kitchen and hallway. We have finished the kitchen, but not dipped a brush on the hall yet. He's snoozing, I doubt we're doing much more tonight. I should be grateful, as my shoulders are aching from the rolling but truthfully I am itching to get it done so I'm a bit disappointed. I think I'm still on some sort of adrenaline rush from pretending to be 16 again and the best I can do is paint. (pathetic) Or maybe all of that hairspray has affected my brain? Either way, I guess I'm gonna pack it up for the night. I may be 16 at heart, but my bones are not! Hey..my kid thinks I'm a rock star...that's better than being 16 again!

The Kindness of Strangers

2009-09-24T05:11:00.000-07:00

Isn't it what we pray for daily...please let this day be a good one, keep us safe and watch over our loved ones. I know that we are asking our God for help in these requests, but in the grand scheme it is man's actions we are hoping He influences right? We want the driver beside us to use his turning signal, the teacher to keep sharp scissors away from the preschoolers, the grocery clerk to pack our eggs separately (PLEASE!), and maybe even a few bigger requests like a salary increase, a free trip to the Keys and a the cleaning fairy. (Then there are the really serious prayers that I will save for another post.) And more times than not we get what we ask for, within reason of course. Unfortunately unless you are standing in a corner with a note pad there is no way to measure all of the good things that happen in a day. I've heard it said that without the bad we don't know what is good...so we must endure the 'rude' disruptions in order to have a gauge how 'good' good can be. But even then we risk getting stuck on that 'rude' thing and forget to be thankful for the smaller things in between. I think that is why we are given these 'Strangers' with a servant's heart. Those folks who find joy in giving their services, offers of kindness, seekers of everyday actions turned extraordinary.
The other night I was out to eat with my daughters and our quasi-cousins and their mom. We had been to the park, it was hot and humid and we looked pretty rough! But we were hungry so off we went to the local meat and 3. It was a slow night for them, just a handful of tables, but they had a band and chicken fried chicken so we decided to stay. The girls were laughing and dancing, acting silly really and causing us moms to roll our eyes. We were almost finished when a gentleman walked up to our table, pointed at our daughters and laid down a $20. Said he wanted to buy their meals. (We would like to think he wanted to do so b/c of how cute and well behaved they were being, not because their mothers looked like we had emptied our ashtrays to gather our last coins for dinner! However, we fear the latter!) Needless to say we were more than shocked, totally grateful and left feeling blessed. Come to find out this gentleman was known to do this sort of thing, kind of has a reputation for sharing his wealth. He's given waitresses 3 digit tips and for whatever reason insists on buying dinner for others when given the chance. I love this man. Really. That's who I want to be. I bet he doesn't stop at money though. Giving doesn't stop with money that I know. As he laid the bill down and motioned to the girls letting us know his intentions he was glad to hear our thanks but quickly moved on. He wasn't there to talk, to share some wisdom (I'm convinced he has much), or to get information. As a matter of fact, he laid the bill down, said a few words then moved on to the next table where he stopped to greet a couple of friends and then continued walking toward the door. Now that was the best, most powerful part of the whole exchange to me. He offered more than money, he offered kindness in many forms.
So here it is days later and he still has put a smile on my face. I wonder if he knows that? I hope he does. I hope we put a smile on his face! If our words of gratitude and surprise didn't do it then I hope the four bouncing, dancing angels at his feet did!
In my family we were taught to fear strangers. I just had a 'stranger-danger' talk with my girls last week. Our society spends millions on child watch/Amber Alert/school security because of our fear of strangers. Growing up we spent the day on the street in our neighborhood, bouncing from house to house with our friends. Now I don't let my 6 year old walk to my neighbors for a cup of sugar without me standing on the front porch. Is it really that bad? I remember once my mother in law saying to me that in general most people are decent and want to do the right thing. That was a huge relief to hear and made even better that someone I trusted really believed it! I try to keep that in mind, I hold tight to it when I realize my child is away from me in the hands of stranger that I'm supposed to trust because another stranger told me that I could. Then I am given a token of kindness from a man at a cafe that reminds me to stop and look at all of the good that strangers do for me and for my family everyday. I am given a moment to reflect, to relax and to enjoy the humanity around me. And I know that the next talk I have with my girls will center around ways to pay it forward, because make no mistake that is what it is all about.

Happy New Year Baby!!

2009-09-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of the new year in Ethiopia. Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) is still very alive and celebrated in Ethiopia. Below you will find the information sent to us regarding this holiday from our adoption agency. It's so hard to imagine another group of people just few miles away (ok, a little further than that), still hanging out in year 2002. The neatest thing for us to think about is that our son, whether born last year or this year will be able to say he was born before his big sister Mallory and only a year (or 2) after Kendall. I imagine that will be turned into a great debate between the three of them for many years! Wonder what year his birth certificate will list??

September 11th Ethiopia welcomes in the New Year ! The year 2002!!

Ethiopia still retains the Julian calendar, in which the year is divided into 12 months of 30 days each and a 13th month of 5 days and 6 days in the leap year.

The Ethiopian calendar is 8 years behind the Gregorian calendar from January to September and 7 years behind between September 11 and January 8. Enkutatash means the “gift of jewels”. When the famous Queen of Sheba returned from her expensive jaunt to visit King Solomon in Jerusalem, her chiefs welcomed her back by replenishing her treasury with inku or jewels. The spring festival has been celebrated since this early time, and as the rains come to their abrupt end dancing and singing can be heard at every village in the green countryside; but Enkutatash is not exclusively a religious holiday. Today’s Enkutatash is also the season for exchanging formal New Year greetings and cards among the urban sophisticated - in lieu of traditional bouquets of flowers. It is a time to express hopes and dreams for the future. Meskerem (September) is seen as a month of transition from the old year to the new.

Summer of Fun

2009-09-09T06:32:00.000-07:00

Our summer was full of family time, friends, water, dancing, and lots of great (not always great for you) food! I was sad to see the 8 weeks steal by so quickly. Admittedly it was me who dreaded the first day of school. My lazy days of summer were gone..but luckily not forgotten. This summer marked the beginning of "growing" our family. Seemed like everytime we found ourselves doing something special with the girls we were reminded that next year we will get to share these moments with another eager little soul. We are looking forward to the fall, but the summer has always been our favorite time of year. We still have a trip to the beach to look forward to...it's not over yet!!!

Toothfairy Time!

2009-09-02T05:57:00.000-07:00

My oldest has lost one of those precious things you never get back...and her mom is a bit sad about it. To her delight she lost her first baby tooth yesterday!! She has been wiggling this tooth for weeks, over a month I know, and yesterday was 'the last stand'. She climbed in the van and with her head turned away from me asked "Mom, do you noticed anything different about me?" and she whipped around showing that precious smile minus a tooth! I was thrilled for her, what a milestone it is to loose your first tooth! Plus the fact she has been harassing our dentist since she was 4 years old about losing her tooth...I might just call them today so that he can celebrate with her!
This tooth was lost more than once yesterday. We began thinking that this tooth had had enough of the Roy's and was determined to flee the scene first chance. Once in the van K placed it in the cup holder for safe keeping when we stopped by the park. Her little sister's curiosity got the best of her and within mere seconds of close inspection the tooth was gone! K didn't know and I wasn't about to tell her. Feeling sure I could find it, I sent K home with a friend (the mom knew my dilemma..she was buying me time..thanks Ang!) and began the painful search. It was a seek and rescue mission made nearly impossible by the lack of details from the perpetrator and the fact that we had recently eaten popcorn in my van causing me to encounter many hopeful but unsuccessful discoveries. My desperation was enough that my friend sent her pre-teen daughter to my house to help me look for it. She even offered one of her daughter's old teeth as a stand in...with the agreement I would return it of course. I LOVE MOMS!! You may be thinking EWWW...but hey, we were grasping at straws here folks!! In my last ditch effort I wiggled some stuff out from my seat/console area and there it was. The smallest, shiniest, most precious baby tooth ever...at least yesterday it was the most precious ever. I was so relieved I took it inside, placed it in a sandwich bag and put it up high so that the baby sister couldn't reach it! When K arrived it was like I had taken special care of her tooth, knowing her one wish was to keep it from her sister and safe for the toothfairy to find. I had found a cute toothfairy book with a little velvet pouch to stash her enameled treasure into and again Kendall thought how very exciting this was, and I gained even more points of course! Right before bedtime Kendall wrote the Toothfairy a letter. It read:
Dear Tothfary,
I wod like to kep my toth plis. Wiy do you want to kep it? I wod like to kep it bekus it is my threshr. May I ples have a gift even tho I'm not giving you my toth? Thank you. love Kendall.
She even drew a pic of the two of them..smiling happily.

As she climbed into bed she lifted her pillow once more to check on her 'threshr' (treasure) and OMG it was not there. I was REALLY getting tired of this tooth! After a few minutes of searching we found it, in the one inch square, $5 velvet pouch on her dresser. This time I placed it under the pillow, laid her head on the pillow and turned out the light. I was NO LONGER responsible for the tooth!
She woke this morning with a handful of $1's and her 'threshr'. Made for a happy morning! She came down smiling that cute smile, advertising her latest adventure sure to bring many admirers at school.
I know it's not the last baby-like thing about her, but it is a reminder that my time with her is ever-changing and that I am required to pay close attention to this baby. For she is soon to be missing all of her baby teeth, smiling at me with a mouth full of new teeth ready to take a bite out of life! I'm holding on to all that I can.
And to you moms...incase you find yourself in the same situation, give me a call, I may just have a small threshr you too can borrow. As long as I can have it back!

Beautiful Poem

2009-08-27T05:35:00.001-07:00

I am lucky enough to have access to some exceptional adoptive mothers(aka 'amom'). They continue to encourage and support me through this process, to which I am deeply moved by. They share my excitement and frustration. These women are strong and gentle, courageous and loyal. They are beautiful. I continue to meet new women in the process of adoption, most recently I met a teacher who is beginning her process. She is single and has decided to take on a second job to finance her adoption. I am in awe of her for I know the task at hand can be very consuming. I've recently found an adoption newletter, via email, and have found many interesting articles/blogs. (Of course I didn't 'find' it, one of my 'a'mom's recommended it...thanks!!) This morning there was a poem listed that I think is just perfect! (see below) Each night I pray for my son's birth family. I pray that his mother has peace with her decision, that she is surrounded by a support group as strong as the one I have. I pray to know her and love her, and I pray that she has a chance to do the same with me. Though we've never met, I'm sure that she is strong, stronger than she yet knows. That she is gentle, lying under the stars talking to her ever-growing belly about the dreams she has for him. That she is courageous, allowing our son his God given right to life. That she is loyal, to the point of securing her heart's safety. That she is beautiful, in the way that the stars shine for thousands of years allowing others to wish upon them and getting nothing in return. My grateful heart is beating strong for this woman and all that she already means to me and to my son and to my family.
Thought that I would share the poem....

The Legacy of an Adopted Child

Once there were two women who never knew each other.
One you do not remember, the other you call Mother.

Two different lives shaped to make you one.
One became your guiding star, the other became your sun.

The first one gave you life, and the second taught you to live it.
The first gave you a need for love. The second was there to give it.

One gave you a nationality. The other gave you a name.
One gave you a talent. The other gave you aim.

One gave you emotions. The other calmed your fears.
One saw your first sweet smile. The other dried your tears.

One sought for you a home that she could not provide.
The other prayed for a child and her hope was not denied.

And now you ask me, through your tears,
the age-old question unanswered through the years.
Heredity or environment, which are you a product of?
Neither, my darling. Neither. Just two different kinds of Love.

Funny Girls

2009-08-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

A few funny conversations between mom and girls:

Banking:
Mom to K: Do you want to participate in the Bank Day at school?
K to Mom: What is it?
Mom explains it is an opportunity to open an account, each month put in money for savings, the bank comes to the school, etc.
K express she doesn't quite understand, Mom tries to do a better job explaining again.
K states again, she thinks she gets it but still not quite sure.
Mom says: The banks comes to the school, you put your money...(K interrupts)
K: I get that part...but why? Why do we do it..I mean..what is the prize?
Mom (grinning): There is no 'gift', you get to save money then when you find something really special to buy then you will have the money to do it.
K (with disgust, and truly astounded I'm falling for this whole bank day): What's the Point!?! You're just giving it to them, they're holding it and we get NOTHING BACK?? That's not right! I'm not doing that! I have my own bank, I'm saving for a dog. I just can't remember where I put that little bank..but I'll find it and keep adding to it!!
Mom is laughing too hard to respond.

Toothbrush..
K: Mom, is this a Reach toothbrush?
Mom: It's MY Reach toothbrush. (thinking she was asking if it was her own)
K: Yeah, I know, but is it a REACH?
Mom: Yep, it says REACH.
K: Ha, good...I like their commercials. (she's walking away now) You know..this is like a dental instrument.

Mom is trying to remember how much t.v. she's allowed her girls watch...maybe too much??

Ethiopia:
M is really diggin' Ethiopian food. Her favorite is the injera, cottage cheese and tibs. My Favorite word of all right now is when she asks for Ethiopian....she calls it 'E-P-O-Pia". Melts my heart.

Getting Back in the Swing of Things...

2009-08-21T05:49:00.000-07:00

We're finishing our 3rd week of school and boy have we been through the wringer!! We've had hand/foot/mouth, allergy/sinus junk, pink eye, tonsilitis and most recently a cold!! YIKES!! But we just keep putting one foot in front of the other, that's the only way!
K is enjoying 1st grade and doing so well. She was placed in the class she so wanted with her best friend..double bonus! I can already feel the change in pace from Kindergarten to 1st and I'm a little scared that I can't keep up!! ha,ha! M is attending her program 2 days a week and she is trying to figure out how to get there without tearing up. She's doing good once she gets settled in and her teacher is super sweet which makes it a little easier. I know she's having fun, it's just that initial separation. She has such a great, sweet disposition and really loves her mommy, makes it hard for me to walk away.
As for my baby boy... we finished our last visit with Catholic Charities the first of August. Our case worker came to our house for this final visit. The house was in good shape, our kids on the other hand couldn't have been more of a mess!!! The meeting was right when K arrived home from school, never her best time of day anyhow. So as the adults were gathered in the living room the girls were also making themselves known. M was throwing a stuffed animal wrapped in a pillowcase around..it hit our case worker in the head. K was whining about her level of thirst, while hanging upside down on the couch between me and my hubby. Much to my relief the girls dismissed themselves to their rooms (could have been our "squinting eye stares"), only to bust out in screaming/shouting...not in the jubilant "I love my sister" way. I took Julie on a tour while Brian attempted to resolve the issue upstairs. Our home has an intercom system, that I realized was turned on as we entered the master bedroom. I could hear the girls arguing their points while their Dad was attempting to gain control of the situation...I don't think Julie heard this or if she did she was polite enough not to laugh at the entire situation! We made it upstairs to find Mallory destroying Kendall's room and Kendall hiding behind her bed...face red and streaked with tears. Really. This was only about 25 minutes. They couldn't give us 25 minutes of digging deep for the good stuff they've been taught? Really? Thankfully our visit was over and Julie left assuring us that she thought everything would run smoothly for us and our dreams of bringing our son home by next year would happen as anticipated. She left. We decided to 'get even' with the rebel-children by laying in our room, refusing to help them for a full hour. No t.v. No snack. And most definitely no milk!! As if the girls need rescuing... my grandmother showed up unexpectedly. Mallory let her in, without us knowing, so she saw how we spend our afternoons...laying in bed while our youngest answers the door! Yep...I was glad when the day was over.
So we've had our last homestudy meeting, we've had our USCIS fingerprinting done and now we are reviewing our homestudy and making any adjustments needed. Once we finish this document then it will be sent to our adoption agency (Children's Hope International in St. Louis) and then we'll work to pull together another 12-15 documents to complete the dossier. Should take another 6 weeks or so. Once the dossier is completed then it is sent to be accepted by the gov't and once approved we will officially be placed on the waiting list. So all in all we hope to be on a waiting list sometime in November. Right now the waiting process is about 12 months, longer than it was when we started the process earlier this year by about 4 months. I'm praying that the process runs smoothly for all adoptive parents and their children and perhaps even a bit faster!! All prayers appreciated!
I have lots of pics to post, but I'm having a hard time getting them over so I'll make sure to work on those this weekend.
I will also try to do a better job about posting!
Now I'm off to buy a b'day gift for one of M's friends....I think I'll grab some hand sanitizer too!!! Our track record doesn't look so good with the swine flu lurking around!

Wingin' it on Wednesday

2009-07-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

My girls left for their mini-vacation with my parents yesterday. They were going to Knoxville to visit family then off to the mountains. Kendall called yesterday to give me the details... a neighborhood dog found it's way to their porch (black and white and in love with Kendall), there are 2 beautiful trees in the front yard(she sounded just like my mother) and a pretty cool pool table. She sounds so grown up on the phone, for a minute I am sad to realize this. But then I remember I am standing outside of TJMaxx where my new shirt is surely waiting for me and my sorrow is replaced by gladness...for Kendall's exciting new adventure and for my opportunity to actually shop!! It is good to step away from each other, even mother and child. Distance makes the heart grow fonder (and Brian would say makes our checkbook grow slimmer). So they are enjoying their special time with Nonna and Pop, I couldn't be more happy for them both. Mallory caught a brim at the nearby pond, they swam in the hot tub before bedtime and this morning they are heading to the aquarium. Kendall's new puppy-love hasn't shown yet, she's sure he will though. I, on the other hand, stayed in bed until 9:45 this morning....with the remote in hand flipping channels. It was great! But now I must do something every mother dreads...clean out the girl's bedrooms. There is no way to do this when they are home so here is my chance, guess I'll peel myself out of the bed and get moving. Or maybe I'll check out Lifetime..it is a rainy day....

Inspiring...

2009-07-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this clip while checking out another family's blog (they had adopted their son from Ethiopia in June 2008). Mochaclub.org is a great site. Hope you take a second to check it out.

Bubbles

2009-07-15T07:04:00.000-07:00

Our friend Kayla shot these pics at our pool a few weeks ago. I must say she is the most technically talented kid I know! I want a phone-camera-radio-arcade-calendar-phone book-email gadget like hers!! Problem is I wouldn't have a clue how to use it! Guess I'll just have bring her and her gadget with me.
Thanks Kayla!

Jumpin' n July

2009-07-09T05:51:00.000-07:00

Aunt Amy with Kendall, Mally and Aaron

Catching up on Cousin Time

Kendall and Mally hangin' with (and on) their Nina

July is in full swing here! With Nina arriving on the 1st, July 4th activities and now my sister-in-law's fam in town we are definitely immersed in summer fun! It's always fun to spend summer with cousins. As a child I looked forward to each summer when I knew I'd get to stay at my grandparents for a few weeks. My cousins would meet me there and we would spend hours playing, talking, fighting, and eating everything in site! As we got older we compared music interests, books, boys, schools, etc. Now as adults we don't get to spend full weeks together so the time we do see each other is precious. I love seeing who they have become. Of reuniting with them and again sharing our experiences with our lives, marriages, and kids...and as always there is food! My oldest daughter loves these family reunions, she is much like her mother. At age 4 she really began to understand the term 'cousin' and the benefits of having an extended family. It's the best gift really, knowing you have people in different towns/states who will welcome you no matter the time of day!
So this week my girls get to reconnect with their cousin Aaron. They started it off right, a big hug then they immediately hit the toys, a game of hide-n-seek, chow down at dinner topped off with popsicles. The day ended the way it should..wishing for just 10 more minutes!

Gotta start somewhere...

2009-07-06T08:46:00.001-07:00

As most know we are seeking another child through adoption..a son this time. Anyone who begins this process is familiar with the hours you spend searching the internet for other's stories..good or bad. Blogs were the most helpful and most inspiring by far. I am blessed to know several wonderful friends who have expanded their families through adoption and all of them agree that blogging is a great tool for adoptive parents to engage. So here I am...blogging...CJ can you believe it?? It really is not that difficult ( if you don't count the week it took me to simply name my blog...) I have invested mere minutes in set up and then the fun begins! The pressure of the name...UGH!! I searched all cool 'catch phrase sites', sites with family, ocean, waves, parenting, etc. and although I did cross many inspiring possibilities none stuck with me. Then as I was passing through my room I took a glance at a picture my mother in law snapped of Brian and I while visiting RI many years ago. We loved the picture, claiming the sign was our favorite part. Such a great reminder and for us it has become our motto....The Grateful Heart. So it was right here, in a cheap frame on my old dresser staring at me all along. I'm sure there is a lesson to be learned here....hmmm.....
I hope to use this site to keep all of my family and friends updated in our chaotic, non-stop, sincere life. I am hoping to post all of our adoption updates and more information about our experience so check back often. Of course my 2 little beans will be all through this blog...they leave their sticky finger prints on everything, this will be no exception I'm sure! Thanks in advance for your support and encouragement!!