Three Weeks Home

Three weeks ago today...right about the time I am typing this.....the girls, grandparents, friends and I headed for the airport and anxiously watched this.

The status of a plane had never been watched so intently before by me...as I checked repeatedly to see if the status had changed. 

Questions were running through my head....
Was the plane on time?
How was my husband holding up, flying with a 2 year old boy?
Would my son remember me (as I flew out 2 days before he did)?

And so....given that we arrived early (wouldn't want them coming off the plane without a proper welcoming committee, would we?), we waited....

 

Finally, after what seemed a gazillion years (because wouldn't you know they were the L-A-S-T ones off the plane), I saw this...

And....for the first time in 28 days, we had all 5 of us in the same place...at the same time.  It was like having a little piece of heaven on earth for just those few seconds.

To all of those who came out and waited with us, thank you.
To all of those who have prayed for us while on our journey, thank you.
To all of those who continue to pray for us on this next phase of our life, thank you.

Three weeks home...
And it's been
Long.
Exhausting.
Wonderful.
Tiring.
Fun.
Fabulous.
Yawn...did I mention exhausting?

We've had rough times...good times...funny times...and family time.  Some of those times will be shared soon.

I also can't wait to share a few of the things that God has done throughout this entire journey...and some of the evidence of His hand intervening on our behalf.

And, once I completely process my time over in the Democratic Republic of Congo, I hope to share some of that experience as well.

God bless!
Lauren

Our Trip So Far

First of all, I apologize for the delay in posting...but am saving a big ol' chunk of posts for when we return home.

But until then, here is a little fun from our experience to date.  :)

We have spent 21 days in Africa...when we had only planned on and packed for 6 days.

Here is what we have gleaned from our planning and packing to date:

• Bug spray is not perfume (though after so many days, it is easy to confuse). It smells...and not in a good way. I'm thinking I may never want to use bug spray again (but please don't tell the mosquitoes that here in Kansas).
• Having three outfits to wear, over and over and over, is completely un-cool. I am debating on having a clothing torch party when I get home and roasting marshmallows...and then I'll make some s'mores (yummy!).
• Being able to brush your teeth with water from the faucet is completely under-rated. I mean, who talks about that at home...but let me tell you how totally awesome it is.
• Toilet paper is GOLD...and I mean yellow-plated GOLD. It is guarded with a ferocity that is stronger than my Doberman's bark...and the toilet paper is monitored to ensure you don't go over your usage allotment. If you plan on coming, bring your own supply.
• I will never complain about laundry again (remind me of that in a year, please). And if you think I'm off my rocker and should go to the loony-bin, you try washing your clothes in the bathroom sink for three weeks.
• American portions and African portions are not equivalent...they are not even on the same scale. I must confess that I can't wait to make myself sick over-eating an American-sized portion as soon as I get home.
• I will never complain about American road construction again. Here there are six lanes of traffic trying to cross a two-lane bridge...and then, add to that, the traffic only goes one way. Here's a tip: tune in to the radio to find out which way the traffic is going.
• A trip here will make you reconsider littering.
• Seeing people piled into cars here always makes me think of the clown car in the circus...as I am always wondering how many are actually inside (and then once I count and find out, I then wonder how they managed to do that).
• Pepsi, Starbucks and mexican food are sorely missed. They will be my first stops when I get back home.

Hope you enjoyed our funnies!  :)
Lauren

Preparing to Travel

We leave in 8 days.

8 days...seems impossible.
Unbelievable.
And wow-amazing!

It seems like just yesterday we were talking how the travel day seemed so far away.
And now here it is...
In just 8 days.

We mailed off our binder over the weekend.
The binder became my life for a couple of weeks.
Shipping it made me feel sick to my stomach.
There was so much work and sweat and information in that binder...let me tell you.

The all important binder...
For the oh-so important U.S. Embassy appointment....
So we can get the oh-oh-so-so important Visa to bring home our son.

Let me tell you...
I stressed over that binder.
And then stressed some more.
And almost made myself sick.

I am so fabulously excited it is done.
Woot!  Woot!

And now on to more paperwork preparation
For the African part of the process...

The only bright side...
They want the same docs as we needed for the binder.

Scratch that - two bright sides...
We are one step closer to our son.

Lauren

The Prayer of Faith

Last night, we had visitors.

Several visitors, in fact.
Welcomed visitors.
And oh, we were so thankful for these visitors.

Our church pastor and the church elders came last night.

We talked about our adoption...
How it began.
Where we are now.
When we travel.
Any concerns.
And safety.

And after we had talked for a few minutes, the elders and our pastor joined around my husband and I.

They laid their hands on us...and each one prayed over us, one at a time.
They prayed for our adoption.
And our travel safety.
And our little boy.
And our two girls.

And, oh, do I feel so much better.
I feel peace...and calm...and I can remember that this is in His hands.
He's got this.
And there is no one else I'd rather have this.

James 5....
¹³ Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. ¹⁴ Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. ¹⁵ And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. ¹⁶ Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

13 days....

Lauren

Twenty Days

20 days.
480 hours.
28,800 minutes.

And we'll be on a plane. 
Headed for Africa.
To meet our son.

Feelings of
excitement
fear
joy
love
and impatience
are all mixed together.

I've imagined our first meeting a thousand different times...and soon, it will be a reality.

I've been told he gives great high-fives...
And I can't wait to give him one myself.
And a hug.
And a kiss.
And to hold him.
And let him know we are family.

Family.
A mom and dad.
Two sisters.
Grandmas and papas.
Uncles, an aunt and some crazy cousins.
Lots of family.
Church family.
And friends.

He has no idea what he is getting into.
And how much he is already loved.
And how many people have prayed for this day.

But soon he'll know.

20 days.

Lauren

The State Fair

The state fair.
Food.
Food.
Animals
And rides.

For some reason (I obviously was out of my mind), I thought it'd be great fun to go with the girls and grandparents to the state fair on my birthday.  Seriously - no idea what I was thinking.  Remind me next year to go to the spa or get my hair done or such.

First, we started with the animals.
Petting zoo - check.

The rabbits - half check.

The poor bunnies only received a quick walk-through.  P-U is what Jenna had to say about that...

 She quickly grew tired of holding her nose and made it clear that it was time to GO.

And just like that, it was time to go on the rides.  The girls had a one-track mind....rides, rides and more rides.

They started with the carousel - a safe first choice.

Then it was time to visit the roller coaster...once and then once more. 
Followed by walking around to see what else looked fun and exciting.
A water ride captured their attention...four times.  They did not even mind waiting in line because it was so fab-u-lous.

After that, it was time to go on a slow ride...and they both decided to share a ticket with Papa and Mommy.

The ride chosen - the ferris wheel.

And just like that, it was time for lunch.


Fried green tomatoes.
Corn dogs.
Chips.
Pizza.
Sausage with peppers.
Cheeseburger.
Funnel cake.

Seriously, fair food - nothing like it.  Worth the trip every time.

The girls had seen the slides while in the ferris wheel....so the next stop had already been decided.

Watching their faces...their joy...their glee - priceless.

The girls went back to the roller coaster to use the remainder of their tickets.  By the end of the afternoon, they were putting their hands up in the air like roller coaster professionals.

And what is the state fair without visiting a booth for a chance at a prize.  We stopped at the floating ducky booth....guaranteed prize every time. 

We ended up with a stuffed puppy dog and penguin to keep us company on the way home.

All in all...a great day.
Perfect day.
Spending the day with the girls.

Think I might do it next year...

Lauren

P-R-E-S-C-H-O-O-L

SO....big sister had her first day of pics shared last month....and this last week, it was lil sis' turn for her first day of school. 

Surprisingly, she was excited. 
She even wanted me to take pictures of her.
And even more so, she wanted her first day of school card which contained money.

Money is important to a four year old.
Very important.
Money is important to a mommy, too.
Very important.
Guess that runs in the family.

Anywho, she posed for me in the rocking chair....rocking her big grin with the missing tooth.

She picked out her own clothes for the first day.
Actually she picks her clothes out for every day.
But she had to be especially fancy for the first day of preschool...
It's a BIG DAY you know.

So after we had taken enough pictures per J, it was time to go to school.
While she did not think a picture by her cubby would be "cute enough", she did decide to take a picture by the windows...she's a fan of natural lighting. 

Have I mentioned my girl has a mind of her own? 

She knows what she wants...
And she never leaves you guessing as to what she's thinking...
Nope, she'll tell you whatever is on her mind.

So what do you think of the fancy outfit?

She's a pretty fancy fabulous four-year old, huh?

Lauren

Bedtime Prayers

Bedtime prayers...you gotta love 'em.

I love listening to my girls talk to God. 

Their prayers are so sweet...
So simple...
So filled with that child-like faith that I desperately try to have.

Take tonight for example...

Big Sis T's Prayer: 
Dear God - thank you for mommy and daddy, this beautiful day and my sister Jenna.  Thank you for the world and everything you created.  Thank you for little brother.  Keep him safe and healthy.  Let him sleep good tonight and let him have a good day tomorrow.  Keep daddy and little brother safe when they come home.  Amen.

Lil Sis J's Prayer:
Dear God - thank you for mommy, daddy and Taylor.  Thank you that little brother has clean water and not dirty water.  Please let mommy and daddy help him get rid of the worms in his belly because worms are yucky and we don't want any worms in his belly when he comes home.  Thank you for clean food and non-sick bugs.  Please let little brother come home soon, very very very soon.  Amen.

From the mouths of babes....

Amen.

Lauren

Officially Ours

Did you see the title of this post? 

You may need to re-read it....I know I've had to pinch myself several times.

But it's true.

He's officially ours.
Officially.
Ours.

We have a son!  We're a family of five!

We received the call late Thursday night.  Yes, I'm talking about the call. 

The call we'd been waiting for...
The call that stopped time....
The thank you Jesus call.

Thursday, September 1st, the court in Africa issued its final judgment.  The life-changing judgment.  The it's never gonna be the same judgment.  The this is the journey God has us on judgment.  The he's now a Ham judgment.

And.
I.
Cried.
And thanked Jesus.
And cried some more.

One very important step complete...several more steps to go.

I think I'll be holding my breath until he is home...in the United States...right where he belongs...because this is Africa - something could still happen. 

But God is faithful...God is good...and God put us on this journey for a reason.

And these several more steps will provide several more opportunities for prayer...and some of those opportunities I will share with you soon.

But today, I celebrate.
Today, I'm thankful.
Today, I'm a mom of three beautiful children.

Lauren

Our Journey

We've been on this adoption journey for some time....through the paperwork and waiting and praying and paperwork and waiting and fingerprints and waiting and immunizations and waiting. 

Do you see a common theme here? 

The waiting.
And the waiting is hard...probably the hardest part of the journey.

Waiting takes hope.
And friends.
And faith.
Mixed in with love.
And family support.
To not go crazy.
Or get disheartened.

I joked with a couple of my friends that I think my pregnancies were easier.  At least then I had a "date" when the waiting would be over.  But with this, there is no such date. 

There.
Is.
Just.
The.
Waiting.

And as far as waiting goes, we haven't had to wait so long compared to some.  A friend of ours waited 8 months to travel.  I read this week of families who had been waiting since 2008. 

And boy...does that put things in perspective.

So we'll wait. 

And through the waiting, I'm learning to not check e-mail every minute.  (My e-mail doesn't know what to think.)  :)

And through it all, my little boy waits for us...

And knowing that makes the waiting a little easier.

So here's to waiting...at least one more day.

Lauren

Musings from Momma

Musings....I like that word.  I don't know why...but I like it. 

Musings.
Musings.
Musings.

And that is what I've been doing lately....lots of musing.  And given that we are back in the waiting stage again, I've had lots of time to think...and perhaps doing too much musing (that is six musings already and I'm just getting started...did I mention I like that word?).

My latest thoughts about baby brother are as follows:

• We'll never have baby photos to show him.
• We won't know his first word or when he took his first step.
• We'll not be able to tell him the story behind any of his scars.
• We'll not be able to tell him who his birth mother is...or why she left.

And when I start thinking like that, I have to remind myself of all of the "sunny side up" thoughts such as:

• We'll have photos to share with him from the day we accepted his referral...and we'll take more than enough photos to detail every moment from the day he came home.
• We can tell him his first word he said in English...his first sentence he said in English...and all of the funny little things he said while learning our language.
• New boo-boos will be kissed by mommy and daddy as the girls will teach him how much fun band-aids are (in case you didn't know, band-aids are really just big stickers in disguise).
• We can let him know his birth mommy loved him very much as we pray for her...and we thank God that she gave birth to our son because he was always meant to be part of our family.

 And so the musings continue...as each day passes, I think of something else.  And as I think of the something else, I remind myself of the sunny side up thought.

Lauren

1st Day of 1st Grade

Today was the first day of school.

And like any good parent, I had to bribe ask my daughter to humor me and let me take some pictures. 

I've decided that first day of school pictures is a tradition that parents pass onto children who will someday pass it onto their children and so on.  Since my mom took pictures of me, I wanted to continue the tradition.

Pretty cute, huh?

I'm sure you are glad I continued the tradition.

What do you think of the outfit?  A lot of time and consideration went into picking out the outfit for the first day.  It's a big deal in first grade...or so I'm told.


Taylor had a lot of trouble picking out "just one" outfit...in fact, she picked out three.  So, she came up with a brilliant idea if I do say so myself.

Choice one = 1st day of school
Choice two = 2nd day of school
Choice three = 3rd day of school

 

Really....isn't that brilliant?  I'm thinking we have some genius genes in that girl of mine...  :)

 And, of course, we took some pictures with sister.  Jenna doesn't start preschool until after Labor Day...but we had to have a picture of the two of 'em.  I think that is in the "1st day of school picture taking tradition" agreement somewhere....isn't it?

 Oh yes, I love my girls. 

And they are growing up way too fast.

Lauren

Band-Aids

I am officially ready to go to Africa....

Not ready in the bags packed kind of sense (I'm SO not that proactive)....but ready in the I now have all of my imm-u-ni-za-tions kinda sense.  Oh yeah.

I am immunized and then some.  And of course, it is my luck that none of the shots could be combined.  Nope, not a one....so I was poked and pricked more times than I'd like to count. 

On the glass half full side of things, my youngest was able to show off her counting skills as she counted each band-aid. 

Of course, she had to notice that mommy doesn't get "cool" band-aids like she does at the doctor.  Nope, I did not have a choice from Barbie, Littlest Pet Shop, Dora and such....I got the basic band-aid.

Plain
ol'
beige.

I think I'll start a new fashion statement with band-aids......I'm off to patent my design.

Be back soon!

Lauren

Dog Days of Summer

It
is
hot.

I am talking hot with a capital H-O-T.  If we had a 90-something degree day, it would feel like a cold front had moved in...and I might have to pull out a jacket or at least a sweatshirt.

So...when it is this hot...there is nothing better than cooling off...visiting a pool...and doing some swimming. We have a wonderful neighbor who lets the girls come over and swim...and swim they do.

And given all the triple-digit days, my girls have been doing that a lot.  Their Papa Bill has been giving them swimming lessons since the 4th of July...and they are doing a pretty good job if I do say so myself.

So, jump right in and cool off.

Oh, yeah.....we're talking about making some BIG splashes!

Can we say pure JOY?

Seriously, are they cute or what? 

Lauren

IMM-(ugh)-NI-ZA-TIONS

Immunizations....immunizations.....immunizations. 

Last week was all about immunizations. 

Required immunizations....
Optional immunizations...
And a couple "just for safe keeping" immunizations. 

I am thinking that my husband is going to feel like a pin cushion before this is all said and done....but on the bright side, he is almost done.  Two more left and he can put a big check beside the to-do list for immunizations (not that is a checker-offer on the to-do list kinda guy).  But I am...so I'll do it for him - and oh will I do it for him gladly.  Seriously, is there anything better than checking things off the infamous "to-do list"? As each item is checked, I can almost hear a choir singing "Hallelujah...hallelujah....hallelujah!"....but I digress.  Where was I?  Oh yes, immunizations. 

So the immunizations step means we are one step closer to the day when we can leave for Africa. 

And yes, I said we. 

For we have decided that we are both going to go...because it's not every day that you meet your son for the first time.  Of course, you know what this means....it is going to be my turn for immunizations.  I secretly wonder if just some tiny part of my husband doesn't think that this is only fair given he has had most of his to date (and I suppose it didn't help that I was quite gleeful that he was getting shots and not me).  And yes, I said gleeful. 

For you see, I am not a shot kind of girl.  I know...I know...it's not like it's a terrible thing or painful thing...but I still don't like 'em.  Not one little bit.  But that's okay...I'll gladly roll up my sleeve and let them poke me if it means I can go to Africa to meet my son.

SO....this week will be my IMM(ugh)nization week. 

Already dreading it just a little...

I'll write more after my arm is no longer sore from all the pokes.  :)

Lauren

Mr. Postman

Oh yes....it's a good post.....and a praise post!!!

So...for some time, I've been singing a little song as I go out to the mail each day.....do you remember Mr. Postman (by the Carpenters)?  (And, yes, the only reason I even know the song is because of the music my parents listened to in the car...so don't get any ideas about my age - he he!!).   :)

In case you can't remember....here is the first part of the song....

( Stop )
Oh yes, wait a minute
Mister Postman
( Wait )
Wait Mister Postman
Please Mister Postman look and see
( Oh yeah )
If there's a letter in your bag for me
( Please, Please, Mister Postman )
Why's it takin' such a long time
( Oh yeah )

And so....that's how I've felt.....just a waiting, waiting, waiting.

Well, today, our Postman may have earned himself a big fat bonus around Christmas time....because we received the letter we have been waiting for.  WHOO-HOO!!!!

The United States Immigration office gave us our approval for our I-600A!!!!!  For those not familiar, this is the form that says we are approved to adopt a child from another country...and the reason for all the paperwork I mentioned a couple of weeks ago...but the end result will be SO worth it.

So thank you for all of the prayers.....and praise to God that we are one step closer.  Now we are just waiting for news on our court case in Africa!  (Hint...hint....another opportunity for prayer!)

Of course, this good news also means that the husband gets to go in for his yellow fever and typhoid shots - I'm so bringing the camera so I can share the experience with all of you!

Blessings!
Lauren

The Waiting Game

Whistle while we work wait is the new norm around our house.

We are at the point in the process where we are waiting....waiting on the U.S. side for our application (I-600a) to be approved and waiting on the African side for the court to hear and decide our case. 

And, I must confess, waiting is not much fun....in fact, I'd go so far as to say it is no fun at all.  And I'm sure this will come as a shock to many, but patience is not my middle name...in fact, I'm not sure it is even in my vocabulary.  Still, given all this, I wait patiently.

While we wait, we have been busy. 

• The girls now share a closet....talk about rocket science trying to fit two girls closets into one!
• Lil brother's bedroom is now painted (I think he'll appreciate someday the fact he no longer has a lavender room).
• Lil brother's bedroom is almost ready for him....it looks very cute (I'll share pictures when we have it "ready to go."
• Plans for the trip have begun...and we even purchased a new backpack specific for the trip.
• "Things to Do" have been discussed as my husband will care for our son for 3-4 days in Africa and need to entertain him in the hotel.

We know His timing is perfect....and until then, we'll just "whistle while we wait."

The Not So Environmentally Friendly Process

SO....talk to anyone who has begun, finished or even briefly thought about adopting, and one thing quickly comes to mind....PAPERWORK.  And I'm not talking three or four pages.....or even a short story here.....I'm talking about mind-numbing, arm-cramping paperwork that develops some good looking biceps from carrying it around.  Paperwork that the USPS loves to see you bring in because it's going to be KA-CHING to send it. 

And just when you think there is a light at the end of the tunnel, you receive a request for MORE paperwork.  That is where we are this week.....I had thought we were almost through (at least on the U.S. side of things) until I received a lovely pink letter in the mail this week requesting additional information...so back on the paperwork chase I go.  But on the bright side, at least they sent the letter in my favorite color - pink (I'll take whatever glimmer of happiness I can here).  The adoption process is clearly not concerned about trees...or saving paper...or my right arm and hand.

But, I have decided that there is a light at the end of the tunnel (it may be a small candle flame that I have to squint to see....but still a light).  Why? you ask....well, I'll tell you - I think they have asked for every minute of every day of our life....I'm not sure there is much else they can ask for (and you can just let me keep thinking this until the next pink letter comes).  :)

Blessings of no more paperwork...

Lauren

From the Mouths of Babes

This past week, our children became aware of a disease that I wished I did not have to tell them about....malaria.

You see, late last week, we received an e-mail that the little boy we are in the process of adopting had malaria...
And
Time
Stopped.

Waiting for news was excruciating...and knowing we could not be with him while he was sick made it hard to breath.  So we did the only thing we could, we prayed...and we asked others to pray. 

Of course, our girls wanted to know what was going on...and what malaria was...how did he get it...why did he get it...and the list goes ON and ON.  While talking about it and researching it, I found some disturbing facts.

• Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
• In 2008, malaria caused nearly one million deaths, mostly among African children. 
• In Africa a child dies every 45 seconds of Malaria, the disease accounts for 20% of all childhood deaths.
• Malaria is preventable and curable.

http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs094/en/ 

Talk about staggering...unbelievable...unthinkable...and sad.

Both girls prayed for their little brother...and our youngest went to daycare the next day and announced at daycare that they all needed to pray for her little brother because "he got stung by a bug that is sick."  Amen, baby girl, amen!

We found out yesterday that our little guy is doing much better...and we thank everyone for their prayers.

Lauren

You Know It's Gonna Be Good IF...

Have you heard those "You Might Be a Redneck If" statements that were popular awhile ago?  Remember Jeff Foxworthy?

Well, since we "officially" began our adoption journey, we have felt like we are creating our own "list" of 'If Statements' and now have it as a running joke.  For you see, we have had many obstacles come in our way since we decided we were adopting (and no longer just thinking about it) and even more obstacles since we began telling family and friends.  Given the 'If Statements' listed below, we have decided that God has something great in store for our family and can't wait to experience all He has to share!

So here it is....

Once you have started your adoption journey, YOU KNOW IT'S GONNA BE GOOD IF....

1.  Your house needs new heat and air.
2.  You must choose between cutting down a massive tree or losing your front yard.
3.  Your beloved dog tears his ACL and surgery is recommended.
4.  You discover termites a little too close to the house.
AND
5.  Your car AND truck break down in the same day.

Of course all of the above require money...and the only certainty on the adoption journey is it will be a lot of money so you can see how we have decided that IT'S GONNA BE GOOD.  Of course, we knew it was gonna be good in the beginning which is one of the reasons we started this journey.  But we can't help but smile at each obstacle...confirming what we already know. 

We now only look at each other and say...what's gonna happen next?  :)

Blessings!
Lauren 

Christmas in June?

So I feel like it's Christmas. 

I know, I know...it really isn't - but I still feel like it's Christmas.

Now you might have heard of Christmas in July.....and I'm hoping for Christmas in July, too.  But now, it is most definitely, without a doubt, Christmas in June.

By now, I'm certain you are asking why (or else decided I'm completely off my rocker)...let me know which one you decide.  :)

But you see, this past weekend, I received videos and photos from some wonderful people who had just returned from their trips to Africa.  I now have 19 photos and 2 videos of our son....so, you see, it is Christmas in June.

I also received updates about him - what they saw when they interacted with him...what his personality is like and various other oh-so important information. 

And all of this information lets me see him in new ways...gives me glimpses of him...and makes him even more mine. 

So here is for Christmas in June (cheer-cheer)...and praying for Christmas in July, too.

Blessings!
Lauren

Old Maid

I taught the girls how to play Old Maid this week...and it is quite an interesting game to play with a four and six year old.

The girls quickly came to the conclusion that they do NOT want to have the Old Maid in their hands at any time during the game. 

Take for example the scene this evening...

I dealt the cards to everyone and one of the girls had the Old Maid card in her hand (hint, hint - think lil sis)...she quickly stood up, threw down her cards, and stomped off muttering how "it isn't fair!".

We, of course, had a conversation about playing the game, the object of the game and the fact that just because you start out with the Old Maid doesn't mean you will end up with her....but even after the conversation (which had lots of good teaching points if I do say so myself!), we had to re-deal the hand. 

Of course, as luck would have it, the other daughter (hint, hint - think big sis) received the Old Maid this time.  Trying to behave better than her sister, she only threw down her cards and said she didn't want to play (note there was no stomping off - we have improvement!!).  :) 

After all of this drama, we finally were able to play the game.  Their glee, amusement and laughter when a person drew the Old Maid from their hands was positively delightful...and their frustration and "un-fairness" with the situation when they drew the Old Maid card themselves was equally delightful.

In the end, Daddy ended up with the Old Maid...and I must say that all of the girls were absolutely gleeful on the way the game ended.  So gleeful in fact, that I think we'll play this weekend...and cheer for the same results.

Lauren

Timeline

SO...when JD and I began this journey, we were expecting it to take between 12-18 months...as that is what everyone we talked with said to prepare for and so that is what we began planning for.  With that timeline, our oldest would be in (or almost beginning) 2nd grade and our (current) youngest would just be starting kindergarten. 

And so we thought it would be the perfect time to add to our family. 
But it seems like Someone had other plans.

Within one month of officially beginning the process, we were suddenly discussing having our son home in eight months.  And when our timeline became shortened, I became STRESSED because it was no longer lining up with what I had been planning on.  It took some time talking with the Big Guy upstairs to give me a peace about the new timeline...and for me to remember it is all in His hands. 

So we began moving forward with an eight month timeline...and then we had a call this week.  Our eight month timeline could now be as soon as six months (or could take eight months as we had been anticipating).  It is now all dependent upon processing time.  And this time, there was no stress as I am ready...

Ready for him to come home...
Ready to hold him and tell him how much he is loved...
Ready to make him feel safe...
Ready to see his smile...
Ready to be a family of five.

So we wait...and we know that the timing will be perfect - and we'll be ready.

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.  In those days when you pray, I will listen.  If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.  Jeremiah 29:11-13 (NLT)

Lauren

Bunk Beds

With our new family member coming this year, the sisters eagerly agreed to share a room on one condition...BUNK BEDS. 

And, of course, since both JD and I had always thought how cool bunk beds were and jealous we had never had them as kids...we quickly agreed.

The bunk beds were purchased and were to sit in the garage until school was out for the year.  For those of you who have children, you know how well that worked out for us.  Each day the girls took turns begging, pleading and bargaining to have them put up that day...and we said no (we said no for 8 days to be exact.....8 LONG days). 

But this weekend, the girls began organizing and sorting for "the move" in an effort to cajole their mom and dad.  Books and toys and babies and stuffed animals were sorted...a pile for keep, a pile for the garage sale and a pile for their little brother.  (He now has books and tools and musical instruments and puzzles - his room is quickly filling up.) 

That still was not getting mom to nudge....oh no....but daddy decided to make a deal with them (silly daddy!).  If they could have their rooms completely clean...toys and clutter organized...and beds made before he woke up from his nap, he would put the bunk beds together.  And seriously...how those two girls can move and clean when on a mission!  :)

SO tonight, JD and I put the bunk beds together - (together!!).  A few years ago, we would not have been able to do that and we joked and laughed about it.  It's amazing how far we have come in seven years.

The girls are now in their bunk beds, giggling and talking about how much fun it is.  May they have sweet dreams and many great memories of sharing a room.

And now...we are just one step closer to our little boy.  :)

Blessings!
Lauren 

It's a Boy!

God has been doing big things around us (but isn't He always...and we just aren't always looking?)

This past month, JD and I have been amazed, awed and humbled as God has fit together pieces like a jigsaw puzzle...and effortlessly, in only His Way, things have been falling into place.

And to watch God work 
And to watch God move
And to watch God create and knit this family of four into a family of five...
Has been incredible, fascinating and indescribable.

On Easter Sunday, we received a photo of a boy...and life has not been the same since we opened that photo up and looked at his beautiful face.  When I looked in his eyes, I saw my husband's eyes and my oldest daughter's eyes looking back at me.  And now, God has given me such a peace...and I know he is mine, just as I know Taylor and Jenna are mine. 

And, in case I wasn't going to trust myself, God reminded me again through my girls (you gotta love the sense of humor and patience that He has).  I showed each sister the picture separately...so they could each have their own thoughts and opinions and time. 

Big Sis T looked at the picture and asked Is that my brother, Momma?  And I said He could be.  And confidently, as only a six year old child can, she said Yes, I want him to be my brother.

Little Sis J looked at the picture and without asking any questions, simply stated matter-of-factly That's my brother, Mommy. 

God
Is
So
Good.

So now we continue on the journey...waiting to meet our son.  May he know how much he is already loved.

Lauren

Random Thoughts From Daddy

I can't get the trip to Africa out of my mind...and all of the questions that race through my mind as I think about the upcoming travel.

"Silly" Questions like:
What will it be like over there?
What will the food be like?

"Serious" Questions like:
What do I say to him the first time we meet?
How do I communicate to him that I am his dad?
What will my first thoughts and feelings be like when I see him in person for the first time? 
What will he feel and think when he sees me?
What will the plane ride home be like?

And then...will life as I know it ever be the same?

And really, how can it be?  How can one go over there and see the great need and not be effected for the rest of their life? 

When I bring home my son, life will never be the same...it will be changed forever.  Our family will "officially" be a family of five.  And what I have prayed for for months will finally be a reality.

JD 

It's a Rollercoaster

Up. 

Down. 

High. 

Low. 

And so goes the "adoption rollercoaster".

This has been a week of seeing God move...watching Him work...and just sitting back in awe, gratitude and love.  We feel humbled and blessed that God has asked us to go on this adoption journey with Him.  For our hands are actually His hands...and our feet are really His feet.  And He has great plans and great work for His hands and feet - over in Africa. 

Please pray for us as we continue on this amazing adoption journey to bring our son home.

And stay tuned for another post soon...for tomorrow is our first home study visit.  I am quite certain my house has not been this clean since we moved in.  :)

Blessings!
Lauren

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

For the past week, I have been researching on the internet, sending e-mails and talking on the phone...all in an effort to make a decision regarding which agency we will use.  I must admit....it is stressful (as in capital letters, lose sleep over stress - add in more punctuation here please). 

So I, in my typical nerdy fashion, have a spreadsheet for each agency....listing pros, cons, basic information, non-basic information and the (drum roll please) fees.  Now if I could just handpick a specific quality from this agency, the case manager from this agency and the fees from this agency, we'd be set.

And as if choosing an agency wasn't stressful enough, we also need to finalize the country we would like to adopt from.  We are adopting from Africa....done deal - no need to discuss - as God made that quite clear to us.  BUT, what He didn't let us in on is the specific country. 

Did you know there are 54 countries in Africa??  (Me neither...until I began looking).  So I began researching the countries that allow international adoption to see which countries we can adopt from (based upon ages and other factors) and narrowed the list down fairly quickly.  54 countries became 5 countries within a day.....now we're talking!!  Those 5 countries quickly became 2 for my husband and myself.  I really feel God is leading us toward one specific country with such a great need, I can't even begin to imagine or comprehend.

So stay tuned as we finalize these decisions...we'd appreciate prayer as we are making these SO important decisions about choosing an agency and selecting a country.  With these decisions, we are one step closer to our child.  May we follow where God is leading.

Blessings,
Lauren

We've Been Adopted...

God let me know some time ago that our family wasn't complete...have you ever had that feeling or realization?  And yet, at the same time, God was whispering that we would not add to our family in the same way as we had with both T and J...instead, we would add to our family in the same way that both my husband and I became a part of God's family...through adoption.

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.  Ephesians 1:3-6 (NLT)

Adoption is a beautiful thing...if you have not had the opportunity to watch the video "Children of God" by Third Day, do it now.  Click on the link below and prepare to be moved.

http://thirdday.com/adopted

But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.  John 1:12 (NLT)


 Lauren

Time

It's time...time to start a new chapter in our life...time to follow where God is leading...and He is leading us to open new doors that will forever change our family tree.

We have had the thought of adoption in our minds and on our hearts for several years...and have always thought "someday...maybe...when the time is right."  But this year, God started "working on me" and I realized that I can't wait until the time is right 'to me/to us' as God was whispering the time was now and His timing is perfect...so we began REALLY talking about adoption and we have now officially began the adoption process.  WHOO-HOO!!

SO...we've started this blog to capture all of the moments, good and bad, that we go through as we work on bringing home the child God has chosen for us.

Hope you enjoy the ride as much as we will!

Lauren