Running the Race

CHRISTMAS PICTURES/VIDEO

2011-12-30T17:57:00.000-08:00

BIRTHDAY PARTY PICTURES!

2011-12-30T17:53:00.001-08:00

HOME FOR OVER 6 MONTHS!!

2011-12-30T17:43:00.000-08:00

Dayton and Maya have been home now for more than 6 months. We were able to celebrate their 5th birthday with them and their first Christmas. Transition is going great. Both kids have really bonded to each other and play well together. They both love "Baby Signing Times" and are doing a great job with signing and talking. They have such fun personalities. Here are some long over due pictures. We are so blessed to have them in our family.

More Pictures

2011-06-22T20:30:00.001-07:00

Update

2011-06-22T20:10:00.000-07:00

Maya is feeling so much better. We have been having so much fun with the kids. We are so tired and feeling our old age, but the transition has been going well. The kids both eat well, sleep well, and are full of energy. They both love to have us chase them. They look back at us with a twinkle in their eyes and take off. It has been so much fun taking them to the park, McDonald's, on walks, etc. Maya has really been picking up on copying English and signing and Dayton is signing. What we know so far:

Dayton
1. He is a character and keeps us laughing.
2. He loves to cuddle, give kisses, and hugs.
3. He loves to eat.
4. He loves to swing.
5. He loves the bath.
6. He loves to talk(Bulgarian?). We are unsure what he is saying, but he has a lot to say.
7. He is doing a good job of signing eat, cracker, more, juice, drink, stop, shoes. (hmm where did he get that?)
8. He loves to rock in the rocking chair.
9. He loves to cry mama when he can't see me.

Maya
1. She loves to play pretend.
2. She can do the "Itsy Bitsy Spider" (very cute)
3. She is doing great with potty training.
4. She copies our English and signs eat, drink, cracker, potty, more, shoes, juice, stop.
5. She hates the bath.
6. She loves to swing.
7. She is stubborn and has a great pout. Big sister always gives in to her with this awesome pout.
8. She has big sister totally wrapped around her finger.
9. She loves to eat.

We feel so blessed to have Dayton and Maya. Life has definitely changed for us as it is fast paced. We do a lot of diaper changes, chasing, lifting, picking up ,laundry and did I say we are very tired, but I wouldn't change a thing.

We have been busy!!

2011-06-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

First Stop ER

2011-06-12T19:22:00.000-07:00

Before we got home we needed to make a stop at the emergency room. The drive from the airport to home was three hours so we decided to stop at our family's hometown hospital which was on the way home. Little Maya was so sick.

She had been running a little fever, but it must of worsened at the end of the very long flight. The ER doctor and nurses were wonderful. The diagnosis was pneumonia. After being at the ER for over 2 hours we were able to go home with antibiotics. Maya, Dayton, and our two other kids were wonderful throughout the night. Today Maya feels a little better. Oh my it feels so good to look in their rooms and see their sweet faces asleep in their beds. It seems so unbelievable. Rocking them, kissing their little faces, hearing them laugh is such joy to our hearts!! God is so good and faithful.

Arrival at the Airport

2011-06-12T18:31:00.001-07:00

Mommy!!!!! Our little Maya is right at home in Mom's lap.

Dayton really is a hit with the girls....

Grandpa and Grandma get to meet our littlest family members!

Getting packed into the car for the ride home from the airport.... however, in the next post you'll see we did not quite go directly home.

Dan and Kim

Trip Home!

2011-06-11T23:13:00.001-07:00

The trip home began with a taxi ride at 3:45 am to the airport. A plane to Frankfort, Germany and some waiting at the airport for the big 747. Maya was running a fever and not too excited about the whole thing, while Dayton loved looking out at the planes.

You can see them in the big chairs on the 747 awaiting take off. Both did an excellent job of flying with Maya sleeping and cuddling (poor thing not feeling well at all) and Dayton handling the noise with only minor anxiety, but coming around quickly. The flight to Chicago was long, long, long, and the baby in front of us cried most of the time.... NOT our troopers though! The airline was wonderful in making sure the kids had something to eat and I could tell they thought the two were cute (and brave).
Again, I have to say my Sister is a wonderful travel companion - THANKS SIS!

Dan

Document Day

2011-06-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

No Photos or Videos today.... Just getting all the appointment and documents in order.
So here it is....

Doctor appointment...
Ear and Throat DR. - Good
Eye Dr. - minor eye infection for Dayton (wouldn't you know it he was not the one I was worried about)... prescription written and picked up later in day. Maya Good.
Physical - Good (other than Maya's cough and runny nose).
DONE, DONE, DONE

Embassy interview...
Wait for interview time, Go through security, Wait for someone to call our appointment, Get called, provide papers and passports for kids, Wait for the counselor to talk to me (10-15 min. wait), 40 minutes later, Called to talk to counselor, Smiles all around sign form and come back tomorrow for Visas :)
DONE, I say again.... DONE.

Pick up eye drops, go back to hotel and deal with 2 "very tired, grumpy, prodded and poked, bored, missed my nap but too tired to do one now" kiddos. ALL in ALL one very tiring, but wouldn't change it for the WORLD day.

One very happy Dad
Dan

Day two of the waiting for appointments

2011-06-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

Today we went for a walk and made a trip to the mall. Maya has a little temperature, coughing and stuffy nose... so we broke out the cold medicines. So far it has gone no further so hopefully we caught it early and stopped it getting worse. We also spent the day working with baby sign language and watching a Signing Time video. Both kids were signing "more" at supper tonight and liked to do "baby" with the video. It will take some time to develop communication skills but both seem eager to "train Dad" and the other adults.

I ask for your prayers as my Wife and one of the kids are sick back home... it also scares our youngest one there, so please ask for healing and peace on the home front. I miss you girls very much and will be home as quick as possible. Kim, you are my better half so please know I am praying for you and missing you.

Dan

PlayTime in the Hotel Room

2011-06-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

Getting use to each other (Bonding).

Day one of the waiting for papers

2011-06-07T10:26:00.001-07:00

Today we had all to ourselves as we wait for the passports and other official documents/appointments.
As you can see we spent some time playing in the hotel room, watching a Barney video and of course hanging out with my Sister. I must say my sister is the Best! She teaches and is a coordinator at an elementary International School so you talk about having a perfect companion for the trip.... I got it! Thank God for family.
We also spent part of the day at a large mall here in the capital (it was like an American Mall). We took a taxi to and from the mall and hotel, both kids got a little more experience sitting in a travel mode (we are working on getting them ready for all the plane seats). At the mall we had them sit in the strollers (again thinking of airports) and as we arrived just as it was opening and stayed until lunch we gave the kids time to adjust to large crowds slowly.
I have to report that both kids did well and we even had a good lunch in the food court. Later, after naps and some in room playtime, we took the kids for a walk around the sidewalks. They both walked well holding hands and the only sign of discomfort came from Dayton. He did not like the loud, noisy trolleys and buses as they passed. He would grunt and screw his face up - I think that's really good considering the newness.
Today also gave me a chance to try on clothe sizes, and report back to my wonderful Wife all the details of eating, socializing and adjustment so she can make the changes back home. I am very much missing her and my other children so I thank God we can send emails - even if it is hours apart.
Today was a great day for Dayton. He has been somewhat stand offish, sometimes not wanting to be touched. Well, today he decided these two taking care of him were OK enough to really want some snuggling. Maya, of course, has been the socialite from the beginning. Also, today I really noticed Dayton wanting to interact with Maya as they copied each other playing. She has a head start on him in playing and interacting with others so he has a great little role model. I just know he is going to be surrounded even more with good role models when he gets to know his older sisters back home... Hey, Girls be ready for some watchful eyes and being followed around by your new little brother an sister!
With Thanks to wonders and blessing God gives us,
Dan

Maya Water Ceremony

2011-06-07T09:48:00.000-07:00

This is the video of Maya's Water Ceremony.
The staff pour water from a bowl on the steps as you leave and give you sprigs of greens for good luck.

Ready for Bed

2011-06-06T12:10:00.000-07:00

Bath time and Bed time was accomplished!
While they fussed with hair washing, they did a great job getting dressed and getting their hair combed. Our little peace of heart boy went to bed very nicely with our mischievous girl wanting to stay up and party some more.
I love this photo.... they look like Twin Angels.
Dan

Playing with Dad's shoes

2011-06-06T11:59:00.001-07:00

The joys of big shoes.
While the toys that make noise are fun til they are done.
There is nothing quite like big shoe on the run.
We giggle and snicker and make funny noises.
Then stop til we're noticed in big girl and boy poises.

OK, bad poetry aside Dayton and Maya found my shoes to be quite the hoot. Maya likes to slip on her own shoes and seems interested in learning to tie shoe laces, while Dayton just loves to untie them. I guess Dad's shoes is a completely international play thing.
Having a great time getting to know each other.
Dan

Praise God, the Gotcha

2011-06-06T07:05:00.000-07:00

Today was the day! We have the kids and made it back to the hotel. The 5 hour car ride was an adventure with our little Maya talking up a storm and wiggling around almost the entire way! Marty our driver came thru with her trying her hardest to get his attention especially in the mountains. I thought Dayton would be the ornery one, but God placed in his heart a quietness that was a blessing. He sat so nicely and from time to time would look over at his new sister with a look that said "Hey, what's the big fuss about? OK, well you keep us entertained, I'll just look at the scenery."
When Maya did finally fall asleep on my Sister's lap, Dayton would look over every once in a while and put his finger to his lips and ssshhh. Oh, what a good brother he's going to be!
The directors were wonderful and the staff truly showed their love as they left. The day was so fast as we had to be back in time to get the passport photos of the kiddos done.
When we finally made it back to hotel we had some bites of ham and cheese sandwiches, juice and play time. Right now Dayton is napping and Maya is playing quietly in the play crib.
Dad is just trying to catch his breathe and while posting is counting blessings and wondering what this whole new adventure God has in store for us is going to be.
Love and Blessings to all, especially my Wife and Kids back home.
Dan

Planes, Planes, Planes

2011-06-05T01:46:00.000-07:00

Arrived in country! Our only travel delay happened in Des Moines, stayed on the plane for an hour before take off as they checked out a "discrepancy" on the outside of the plane. Seriously, that's what the pilot called it! I guess he thought saying it in fancy terms would make us all more comfortable.
The flight overseas was very tiring, both my sister and I tried to get sleep on the plane, however, the young lady behind us (who had two seats to herself) kicked in her sleep and just as we would get comfortable... bang our seat would shake.
We'll be traveling to the orphanage town today to pick up the kids tomorrow!!! Unfortunately, we will have to pick up Maya first so please say a prayer that she won't be thinking she's just being sent back.
Looking forward to TOMORROW!
God Bless,
Dan

Runners to Your Marks

2011-06-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

Round 2 - the Gotcha trip.
The date is almost here, bags are packed, re-packed, packed, re-packed... trying to get all the items the kids are going to need and Dad too, all into one bag (not overweight) has really been a chore. Thank you God for a smart Wife and her ability to plan and create lists. Yes, I will be taking a detailed list with me... you know it's a husband thing. We created a small photo album for each child with photos from the first visit that I can share and hopefully reassure them that I'm not just some guy taking them from nowhere.
We are going to try to pick up Dayton Daniel Jensen first and then Maya Helen Jensen after. The reason for this is that Maya was in Dayton's orphanage for her first three years and we are afraid that she might think she was going back. I know that in the long run our kids will be fine, it is just hard thinking about how scared they might be. Our other kids are so excited for them to get here and I want to say a big Thank You Jesus that we are fully funded.
Hey... a really neat thing happened.
After we were interviewed by our local TV station, a young lady (just graduated from college) contacted us. She was adopted from the same country our kiddos are in by a family in a nearby community back in 1994. She shared with us a written account she made of a return trip her and her adopted Dad took to revisit her past. They stayed in the same city our kids are in as she was from a nearby location. Talk about a small world.... also, I think it is really cool to know someone who was in one of the first groups to be adopted internationally from the country.
God bless you all,
Dan

Counting Down the Days!

2011-05-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

We are counting down the days that we get to hold our kiddo's for the first time and tell them we love them. I am so excited. Also we are close to being fully funded. God has been so faithful through this journey. Our local television station, KWWL, has taken an interest in our story. They have been so awesome to work with. They reported our story last night on the 10:00pm news and this morning we were guests on their morning show. We are hoping this might spark interest in future adoptions or helping orphans in other ways.

WE HAVE A TRAVEL DATE!

2011-05-09T13:43:00.000-07:00

We are so excited. We will be traveling a few short weeks to pick up our children; Dayton and Maya. I can hardly wait to hold them and tell them they are so loved!! We had applied for a grant but didn't receive it as there are so many applicants. I do feel at peace that God will provide for us in another way. We still need $5,900 dollars. Gas prices and time of year caused the tickets to almost double in price since the last trip. I know that God has been faithful through this entire journey and will continue to be faithful. We will check into other options like a loan etc. We always try to be debt free but will trust Jesus for his guidance.

Glorious Day (Living He Loved Me) - Casting Crowns

2011-04-21T04:48:00.000-07:00

TWO LESS ORPHANS IN THE WORLD TODAY!

2011-04-19T06:21:00.000-07:00

Announcing Dayton Daniel Jensen and Maya Helen Jensen adopted in the Jensen Family on April 19, 2011. Now there is a seven day waiting period. Praise God!!!!!!

Quote

2011-04-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

I read this quote and thought it was perfect!

Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences,
penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.

Maya Angelou

WE HAVE A COURT DATE!!

2011-04-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

We have a court date; April 19th at 10:00am. This morning I was really letting the waiting get to me and I opened our email and there it was; the court date. Thank you Jesus!You are so faithful!!
There is a seven day waiting period after the court date and then we are officially the parents of two more beautiful children.

Waiting...Waiting...

2011-03-30T00:02:00.000-07:00

Have not posted in a while as there has not been much going on to say. We are still waiting for a court date (it has to be soon now); had to update some forms that expired (usual hurry up and wait with errors on the state provided forms... send for them again... wait some more...); keep watching the video and looking at the photos from the first visit (never get tired of those); praying for and checking out the blogs of those going ahead of us... and again, waiting for God's timing.

Blessings to all of you,
Dan

2011-02-21T17:55:00.001-08:00

THANK YOU!!

2011-02-14T14:47:00.000-08:00

Whoever donated to our adoption journey, thank you so much!! I love seeing that thermometer go up!! Yay!!

Together Soon

2011-02-13T19:59:00.000-08:00

With the waiting game in motion, I couldn't resist doing a little photoshoping to see the two together. At one point May and Delvin were in the same orphanage, perhaps they will remember each other!?! We spend many hours looking over the photos and videos from the first visits, I try to relay every detail of the kids behaviors to Kim and the girls. I have to admit that some nights these two have gotten into my dreams along with the rest of the family, so that's why the photoshoping.
May God bless you all,
Dan

WAITING

2011-02-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

We have finished the 2nd round of paperwork for immigration and to start the court process in the country we are adopting from. Now we wait. We only have $2,500 dollars left to go and then we are fully funded. God has been so faithful through this adoption process to provide the finances. We are so excited to be almost done. I keep looking at the videos of the kids. Thank you for all of you who are following our blog and praying for us.

Prayers answered

2011-02-01T19:46:00.000-08:00

Thank you God and for all of your prayers.
May was released from the hospital and is doing better.

The Week After

2011-01-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

Hello all,
It's been a week since I've returned and the guilt of not giving an update has finally got to me.
First off a Big, Huge, Enormous, WOW.... Thank-you to our attorney and guide (you know who you are) and her brother for the help and guidance while I was in the EE country. The work they did in carting me around from one orphanage to the other, translating, and keeping me company was superb. The evening meals at the hotel restaurant was a great experience in enjoying the local foods, but the best part was the conversation. After each visit with the kids I got to email the experience to my Wife back home, but with the time difference we did not get to always "chat" about it, so it was very dear to me to have someone to converse with about the day during the meal.
For those who may not know my wonderful Wife, Kim, stayed behind with our other kids (one was fairly recently adopted and was worried about these parents sticking around) and even though her heart ached to be there, she put herself second to our family.
Side note: I'm not perfect, I didn't bring back a gift for her (I'm a man) she forgave me and kindly gave me an out saying she didn't put it on my list of things to do while there.... for any of you future Dads... please take note! Don't forget.
I got a chance this past week to share with my college students the blog's pictures and videos of the kids... perhaps there is a future Mom/Dad for a Reece's Rainbow/orphan child out of the group. While the response was a lot of oohs and aahs I did get a feeling some had to wonder if their instructor was somewhat "out there" - Who would want to do that? I must say, for the most part, they all worked hard for the substitutes. To me that was a God thing as the process of returning to work was made easier than I expected (I was a little worried about the missed class time).
Speaking of God things (I know you all see them from time to time) this whole process really makes one appreciate His Love and Promises! He made His presence known once again this week to our family. We had known that by adopting two we would be needing to get a different vehicle (we had decided at least a 7 passenger was in order) and during the space between the required visits for the court proceedings to begin and our second trip to pick up our "punkins" we would deal with it. We just didn't know it would be in the first week back!
Our oldest daughter's car went down for the count when I got back... "say what!?!" and you can imagine that was NOT in our time table. As you can imagine my Wife and I were scrambling for an answer while trying to push the paperwork we needed to get done ASAP to send back over. For those following our blog, you might remember that God had helped us find a way to refinance our home to free up some money a while back. Well... in the paper work which needed notarizing we have a friend at the bank that does this for us.... wait a minute, bank - car loan - hey, let's see what could be done.
Sure enough, she said she could work on that (she already had our info from the home loan) and thought it wouldn't take long. We left with an idea of a budget and decided to check out a nearby dealership before going home. THERE it was, a wonderful used van. We drove it, poked our nose in all the compartment (0ur youngest fell for the DVD in the ceiling), and kicked the tires. Now all we needed was to work out the price... low and behold, it was exactly what we thought we could afford (Yeah God). If our mechanic gave it a thumbs up it was a go.
Next day I made the appointment to have it checked out and right afterward got a call from my Wife to say the bank had approved and we could pick up the check.
Recap: Unexpected problem arises, possible solution at place where the documents for the adoption needed to go, vehicle fitting our needs appears, finances line up, vehicle checks out and guess what.... our family's needs get met.
Yes, our oldest daughter may not have known it (I certainly didn't), but by adopting two orphans in need, she would be able to get to work in our old car. AND it happened within two days - God, you certainly can move mountains in the blink of an eye!
I'll try to update more regularly and if you could, please say a prayer for May, we have not heard if she has been released from the hospital or how she is doing for a little while.
May God bless, Dan

HOME

2011-01-23T06:21:00.000-08:00

Dan got home last night. Yay. We were all so happy to see him. Now we start another round of paperwork to get our kids home as soon as possible. First priority is to get that 1-800 completed. God has been so good. While Dan was gone my little girl was so well behaved the entire week. This is truly the hand of God. I don't remember when she has gone so long with being so well behaved. She was terrified that her dad wouldn't come home when he left. She has had so many loses in her young life due to multiple placements in the foster care system until we adopted her. Thank you Jesus!

Final Visit with Delvin

2011-01-21T06:56:00.001-08:00

Well today is the day... our final visit.
We played and looked at the family photo book and everything was going like the other visits and then it happened. It may have been because he was tired or something else, but he decided to have a "fit".
It started when I would not let him do what he wanted... head out a door, and then proceeded to be grumpy with me in the play. It might be that he was testing to see if he could get his way with this new guy, or the tired thing... but, from my point of view it was good to see.

How you say? Well, Delvin in all our visits (short as they were) always seemed well behaved... that is NOT a little boy, I know, I was one.... so with this outburst I got a chance to see him "in action". He did not strike out in anger (hit, or kick and that's a great thing) no, he just did the four year old thing and go limp. You know the times you've seen mothers holding up little guys in the store aisles. Well, there he was laying on the floor with his head against my kneeling leg playing "dead possum".
I decided to continue playing and once in a while see if he wanted to join in again. He almost went for it a couple of times but in the end he upped the ante. He went for the cry... Now all kids should be able to cry when tired, upset, not getting their way, etc... in fact, if they can't - that is a sign of something else, SO... yeah for Delvin.

Now this crying, of course, was not wanted or fun, but when you only have 5 visits any change in circumstances you want to note. Now, he was mad at me and wanted me to know it. How? Well, when I placed a tissue on the arm of the chair near him, he stopped crying - reached over - and slowly pushed it to the floor, then he could go back to his crying. Did it make me feel bad? Sure, it hurt my feelings a little, but hey, I'm just a guy that showed up 5 days in a row and didn't let him do what he wanted... I have yet to earn the title Dad and comforter... and you know what, I really don't want him to just let any adult do that unless they've earned it.

So again, Yeah Delvin.
The spirit God gave you has survived so far and may He protect it until we can get you home. You'll be my son, Delvin, so it is ok to be mad at me.
Dan

Delvin says hello

2011-01-20T14:40:00.000-08:00

Delvin's visit Thursday

2011-01-20T13:49:00.001-08:00

Today's visit with Delvin went OK. It could have been better but that was my fault not his. I was sort of drained from this morning's news.

He enjoyed the blocks and found the tape measure very interesting. I would hold the retractable end and he would pull out the tape (it makes a clicking sound as it goes). When the button was pushed the tape would quickly disappear back inside and he would giggle and smile. This game was repeated many times and each time he enjoyed it. We are definitely going to have to get toys that makes sounds, has buttons and dials and require physical actions.
May will be the thinker/puzzler while Delvin will be the action man. I also think he is going to really enjoy the bean bag chairs we have in the play area as he likes to wiggle into the corner of chairs. I can also see him diving on to them in a flop!

Tomorrow will be the last visit with him and right away we'll have to travel back to the city with the airport after. It really seems like this week has flown by. I try to think of this as finishing a step and getting closer to being able to bring them both home for good... it helps me to not focus on leaving them (it works a little). Our attorney/guide has been so helpful here I hope she doesn't mind that I got a little quiet today but at times I get lost in thought about the kids and leaving.

Will post a quick video and give an update tomorrow.

Quick update from the Plane friends

2011-01-20T03:59:00.000-08:00

If you get a chance you might check out Autumn's and Robin's adventure. They shared the plane ride with me over to Europe and need a quick prayer for passports being issued.
http://www.noknots.blogspot.com/

Video post of May

2011-01-20T02:58:00.000-08:00

Unexpected last visit with May!

2011-01-20T02:28:00.001-08:00

Where to begin?

Today's visit started with some bad news... This would be the last visit with her for this trip!
May was able to see the doctor yesterday and it was decided that she should be checked into the hospital this afternoon. Because she is so small, and has a hard time expelling the mucus built up in her they want her to be under supervised care. It will keep it from spreading to the other children and also keep anything the other children may have from spreading to her while her immune system is fighting what she already has. I appreciate the care they are taking and am praying that God gives the doctors and staff at the hospital the wisdom that May will need for her care.

I praise God that He allowed the time we had together this week, that He gave her the strength to hold off the sickness so we could connect. It must have been His nudging to me this morning that I would pack our family photo book, extra batteries for the phone and all the items I planned on leaving with her orphanage. Earlier this week it was suggested these be brought on Friday, but somehow it just seemed right to do so this morning. God is good.

May was her strong spirited self and she played with joyful giggles and mischievous smile. She allowed me to take some measurements for clothing, but found it more fun to use the measuring tape herself. She proceeded to measure the baby doll and Dads arm for herself.

Please pray for God's healing for May and may He bless us all.
Dan

Vist with Delvin Wednesday

2011-01-19T10:01:00.000-08:00

My visit this afternoon with Delvin was a great pick me up from this morning.

We had a quiet visit and I could sense he was feeling much less tense about who I was. This is a great sign on his ability to adjust to new surroundings and people. A couple of times in the visit he decided HE wanted to sit on my lap and came over to let me know he wanted up.

We played with some play dough and while he seemed ok with the idea of something squishy, I don't think it is something they do a lot here in this EE country.

The realization that the visits are getting close to the end hit me tonight and I have been trying to get as many images and videos as possible with the help of our attorney (guide). It is going to have to hold us over for the time it takes to get to the last travel date. I know that God has this planned out, I just hope all the people involved with the task listen to Him and make his will happen here on earth.

I'll post tomorrow's new, take care.

Dan

Visit with May this morning

2011-01-19T02:45:00.001-08:00

This morning's visit was a low point but really telling for me.

May's sinus infection is worse (she is suppose to see a doctor later today) and it has really zapped her strength. She again really tried hard to play but tired quickly. She played the piano in the music room where our visits take place and she did not even care how out of tune and spongy the keys were... I loved her songs. If you look closely at the photo you can see her holding a tissue I gave her. She knows how to hold and wipe her nose... she just can't blow very well to get the mucus out. They said she vomited this morning and I hope it was just from swallowing the nasal drip during the night. Please pray that this is nothing more than it seems.

We also worked on a wooden puzzle. She amazed me with her thinking skills and she was picking up on which piece went where. She has even got an wry sense of humor - when I would point to a place the piece went, she would look up at me with a twinkle in her eyes, place the piece in another place and giggle before moving it to the right spot.

The low point is her health for sure, but it gave me a chance to see her strong will and easy to work with, when sick, character. At one point when she was looking especially worn down she melted into my arms and just wanted to rock for awhile. When my arms were getting tired (no chair) I would slow down and she would turn her head looking up at me with pleading eyes to keep going... how quickly the tired arms would disappear. Once she got her energy back she let me know it was ok to put her down and was content to lead me back to the toys.

God created a wonder in this child and it is NOT in His will that she be held back just because of circumstances life placed her in. Every child deserves a chance.

God bless you all, I will post about the afternoon visit with Delvin later.

Dan

May - Soccer girl

2011-01-18T21:53:00.000-08:00

Our little soccer (football) girl. God gives all children joy in play.

Another Video with Delvin

2011-01-18T21:43:00.001-08:00

While the internet is moving quicker a short video with Delvin.
I just love his commitment to playing the music and pushing buttons, it's so cute.

Day 2 with May

2011-01-18T13:30:00.000-08:00

May still is fighting the sinus infection which because of her little nose and airway seems to cause her to breathe from her mouth a lot. Poor thing gets dry mouth and lips easily. Today we played with some toys I brought. SHE LOVES DOLLS and knows how to feed her. She is very bright and will go from toy to toy... she likes variety.

Oh, and if we can get her fragile body stronger she loves to play soccer (football) we went back and forth across the room kicking the blow up beach ball. She even will sit down with her legs apart and wait for me to do the same so we can roll it back and forth when she gets tired. Her spirit is wanting and she played for the whole hour and a half but I could tell she was exhausted toward the end... she just did not want to give in.

There is a cough going around (you can hear it in the background) so please God keep our little ones safe. The staff try so hard to keep the place as germ free as they can.

Day 2 with Delvin

2011-01-18T12:32:00.000-08:00

Great visit today with Delvin. The staff say he likes to say he is the boss and have been working with him to tell the adults are.... It must be working because when asked he came over to me to say I was (after saying he was first of course). He is quite the charmer and even likes to put away toys when asked. Mom will really like that.

When he saw the backpack he went to pull out all the toys right away. I think he was looking for the phone that he played with the entire time yesterday. When he could not find it (Dad had other plans for today's play) he just shrugged it off and started in with whatever he found. He is pure boy in his playing (noise and physical manipulation - placing thing in and out of a box) but would stop and press a play button on a musical book for background music then quickly go back to moving the toys around. When he noticed the music had stopped he would pause, start it again, and go on.

Meeting Delvin

2011-01-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

I got to see Delvin for the first time today! He is an active boy and wants to do it himself.... the play phone was the hit of the day and he walked around opening and closing it - pretending to talk to someone. The visiting room was nice and I think I'll be able to see more of the orphanage and his sleeping area later in the week.
Again, the director and staff love their job and do wonders with what they have. Thank God they want Delvin to have a home of his own.
Spent most of the time getting answers to questions on his background health and activities, but the time I got to spend with him made me think he'll fit in well. I'm not sure he gets that he and I will be outnumbered by the girls 5 to 2, but He and I will support each othe when the going gets rough... yea boys!

Will post more tomorrow after visits - Love to all
Dan

May's first day with Dad

2011-01-17T02:54:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, even though I'm not feeling well here is my favorite doll I like to rock, my bed I sleep in and the block table my friends and I play at... May.

Well, that is what I think she would say to you all. God really made one special child in May. Even though her body is small and fragile the spirit inside her is so wonderful! I know she'll blossom even more when she gets the full love her Sisters, Mom and Dad can provide in a family of her own. With God's help she'll see it soon.

Meeting May for the first time

2011-01-17T02:40:00.001-08:00

Today, we met the Director at May's orphanage and I got a chance to see May! She has a bit of a cold, but even so I can tell she'll be a trooper. The staff are wonderful people and I can tell they love the children very much.
The staff took me to see her group room. They have a colorful area and the children play well together.
I'll post some more photos and then we are off to see Delvin this afternoon.

2011-01-16T09:42:00.000-08:00

I have a place to put my head... now if only I can sleep! Keep thinking about tomorrow.
By the way, a big shout out to Autumn and Robin (see earlier post about the plane ride) I'm praying for your little one.

Had a chance to eat some supper - ordered chicken (figured it would not be too spicy) and made sure it was cooked well. I guess I'm being a bit cautious, but NO WAY am I going to miss seeing the kids because I got sick or heartburn.

A bit about adapters for 220V lines... If the EE country has recessed outlets a flat adapter won't fit (need to educate our Radio Shack). This hotel did not have one on hand so I'll be shopping tomorrow too. Look for photos of the Kids on my next post.

May God bless you all,
Dan

Note from the one abroad

2011-01-16T08:47:00.000-08:00

Hi all, just wanted to say I'm over here in the EE country and very excited to see the kids tomorrow! The drive was exciting, if placing your hand in front of you a few times can be called that, there were many times the other drivers would drift into our lane or on coming cars would pass as they came over the hill! I thank God our driver is safe and knows to watch out for those others.
Please say a prayer for us to have a good first visit.

DAN HAS ARRIVED!

2011-01-15T05:19:00.000-08:00

I just read my email and Dan has arrive in the EE county to start on the journey of visiting our kids. He said he had a great flight and even sat next to a family picking up their kiddo's in an EE country. http://www.noknots.blogspot.com/ Dan will rest today, travel tomorrow to the town where the kids are, and starting visiting them on Monday. I am checking this blog Monday for amazing pictures and videos of the kids. It is really hard to believe this is finally happening. God has provided and has orchestrated so many amazing things on this journey. Like Wednesday when life was crazy trying to ready for this trip, we received in the mail a letter from an organization Beta Tau Delta. They had decided to sponsor our family and donated $525 to our adoption fund. I had never heard of this organization and they are from a different city than ours. So when things happen at the last minutes like; Dan's laptop literally smoking and Dan pulling out of the driveway to leave on Thursday and the car will not start, I know that God is in control. (battery was dead)

He who calls you is faithful: he will surely do it." 1 Thes. 5:24

FOUR MORE DAYS TO GO

2011-01-09T14:48:00.000-08:00

Counting down the days. What we realized was that Dan's birthday will be on the day that he meets the kids. What an awesome birthday present for him. Today we celebrated ahead of time with going out to eat, presents(to use on the trip), and cupcakes. We continue to pray for a smooth week and safe travels for Dan.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T06:08:00.001-08:00

I checked our Family Profile Page and saw that someone donated more money. Thank you so much. We are getting so excited as Dan leaves in two weeks. It is so hard to believe that in two weeks I get to see videos and pictures of my babies!!! We are getting closer to when they will be home. Everyone have a safe and Happy New Year. This is an amazing story of God's love for the orphans. http://covenantbuilders.blogspot.com/

WE HAVE A TRAVEL DATE!!

2010-12-04T17:28:00.000-08:00

We have a travel date. On January 14, 2011, my husband will be boarding a plane headed for an EE country to see our two kids. I am so excited!! I wish I could go, but I need to stay home with are other kids. He said he would take a lot of photos and videos so I will be attaching myself to the computer!!! :)

Must Watch

2010-12-03T16:25:00.000-08:00

2010-11-30T14:38:00.000-08:00

Well a couple of awesome, exciting things have happened the last two days. Yesterday I was running errands and a friend walked up and handled me a donation towards bringing our babies home. Also we have refinanced our home and in doing so was able to skip a month of our mortgage, which of course would be going towards our adoption fund. Thank you Jesus for providing.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2010-11-30T06:01:00.000-08:00

In a few days our little "Delvin" and "May" will have their birthdays. I so want to hug them and tell them how glad we are that they were born, that there is a family waiting for them to love them, that God created them for a purpose and they will do great things. (and of course we would have to have two celebrations with presents and cakes.) Our daughters are already making gifts and putting them in their rooms. Next year we can do all these things and what a party that will be!! We are waiting for our travel date and getting very excited to meet the little sweeties!!

THIS SONG IS BY SARA GROVES.

2010-11-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

I SENT THE DOSSIER TODAY!

2010-11-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

What a great feeling! I sent the dossier today. I think I made the lady nervous at FED EX because I kept saying how important this package was, was she spelling everything right, will the envelope tear, etc. SIGH. I am getting use to people looking at me like I am crazy. I remember when my husband and I were considering adopting and looking at all the things we would need to get done. It seemed overwhelming, but here we are!! Thank you Jesus.

Thank you!

2010-11-03T14:21:00.001-07:00

A big thank you to whoever donated in our account. We are so thankful. Your donation brings us closer to bringing our little ones home!! Glory to God!!

WE GOT OUR APPROVAL!!

2010-10-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

My daughter was pretty happy we got the approval.( Of course my husband and I were extremely excited!!!) I had been stalking the mail for days and driving her crazy with; Have you seen the mailman?, Are you sure you haven't seen the mailman? Check and see if the mail has come yet.

2010-10-29T15:59:00.001-07:00

Orphan Sunday from Greg Buzek on Vimeo.

2010-10-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

I guess I will just put this out there; we still need 6,500. Break down:

Airplane travel 1200 Dan, 1200 "Delvin", 1200 "May"= 3600
Visa for "Delvin" and "May" = 800
1-800A Application= 741
Medical Exam in EE for "Delvin" and "May" = 200
Housing for second trip= 700
Money toward travel first trip= 500

We have saved money each month by cutting back expenses, closed out my retirement fund, saved money from birthdays, etc. We are also refinancing our house. I have also sold old jewelry. It is amazing how much gold is worth. A few pieces really add up. So now we pray for the rest. If anyone felt led to help us in our cause to save two orphans from oversees the donations are tax deductible. Reese's Rainbow is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All you need to do is click on "Delvin" and you will be at our Family Sponsorship Page where you can donate. It is really hard for me to ask for donations. We have the money to support our children when they come home. It is just that when adopting you are asked for a very large sum of money up front and quickly. Not many of us have 23,000 dollars saved or available to us. We are ready to send in our dossier when we receive in the mail the approval from USCIS. Once that happens things move quickly. YAY, but that also means we need the remaining money quickly. Thank you for considering us.

WAITING, WAITING, WAITING, FOR THE APPROVAL LETTER FROM USCIS

2010-10-24T08:43:00.001-07:00

WE ARE ALSO ADOPTING A LITTLE GIRL!!

2010-10-22T17:22:00.000-07:00

Isn't she absolutely adorable!!! Our little girl lived in the same baby house as our little guy. They are buddies!! She is only one day younger than our little guy. I will have four year old "twins"!! We are so excited and so is our girls. They can hardly wait to do her hair and nails!:) We are keeping her birth name and for the middle name using my mom's name Helen. My mom died last year. She would have loved her new grandchildren so much. She taught school when she was younger and always had a heart for the child in need. Oh how I wish she was here to be able to love her new grandkids. She was a great mom. My mom was always there when I needed her. One of the reasons my husband and I wanted to adopt was we felt so blessed to have grown up in homes where feeling safe, being taken care, and loved was something we never even thought of because it just always happened. We feel that because we were blessed with great childhoods we needed to give other children the same blessing. The Bible talks about that much is expected of those that are given much.

TEENAGERS LISTENED TO GOD'S CALL AND SAVED A LIFE!

2010-10-21T04:49:00.001-07:00

Surprise Gift

2010-10-20T10:59:00.000-07:00

I received the most wonderful gift today. My dad and I were talking about when he was growing up during the depression years and how the hobo's would ride the train into town and get off. The hobo's would smell the coffee my dad's mom was making and knock at her door. My dad said she would always give them a cup of coffee and probably food on the side. My dad's family was very poor so I imagine this was a sacrifice. My grandma was pretty old when I was born so I don't remember a whole lot so I asked my dad if he would say she was a generous woman and he said of course. I said I bet she would approve of us adopting two kids and he said of course she would have. That really came as a surprise as my dad is not a man of emotion or words. What a gift that was to me today. Thank you Jesus.

2010-10-13T16:51:00.000-07:00

Today we went to be fingerprinted. The people were very nice. We ended up going in two hours early from my husband's scheduled time. I was given a different date, but they let me go any way. There was only one other person in the waiting room. Now we wait for the golden ticket; which is the approval from USCIS. Then we can send the dossier off. I am working like a crazy lady getting all the documents notarized and apostilled.

DANIL HAS A FAMILY!!

2010-10-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

Read my September 19, 2010 post. Danil had three weeks before having to go to the institution where he would not have be able to be adopted. People have been praying and desperately fund raising so this little child of God could have a family. And today Glory to God Danil has a family!! He will be able to know what it is like to be tucked into bed, read to, hugged and loved!!!! Danil will be able to go play outside, play with toys, go to school: all the things in life we take for granted!! Yay God!!!!

Cancer

2010-10-08T10:36:00.001-07:00

I really haven't counted how many times I have been told in my lifetime that "I can't save the world." or more recently, " I can't save all the orphans". So should my response be, "You are right I can't so I will sit back and do nothing." When people are fighting to cure cancer are they told, "You can't cure cancer" or "You can't save everyone that has cancer" so should people's response be "You are right so I will sit back and do nothing?" No, people fighting the cause for cancer are told great job, go for it, we support you. For cancer causes there are huge fund raisers, marathons, walks, visits to the hospitals by celebrities for the children, teddy bears, etc. And thank God that this is happening because we have seen cures for certain cancers, lives saved, lives extended, suffering eliminated. So why don't we have that attitude about orphans? Orphans die every day, they suffer, lives are shortened. Why are people not excited when others are working so hard to save orphans by fund raising, adopting, advocating? I don't understand. What is it about saving the orphans that scares people? I don't have the answer. This is truly me questioning why people get all up in arms about others adopting orphans or fighting for the cause. It baffles me. Is the suffering of the orphans so distant that it is unreal? Because if that is the cause please read through my posts and look at the videos.. It is all too real to ignore or pretend it doesn't happen.

Taken from the blog, "Bringing Ana Home"

2010-10-06T18:03:00.001-07:00

the orphan

Adoption month is not until November, but I just learned about Olga and I had to share.
(Adapted from twolivesonejourney.blogspot.com: This baby girls name is
Olga. I would ask you to pray for her but it is too late for that. She
died this week. I would ask you to pray for her family as they grieve
the loss of this princess but no need…. She didn’t have any…..she was an
orphan. Olga was in need of prayer and love but she did not get that.
She was an orphan in a country that gives no value to children like her. She had no one to love her,
hold her, Cherish her, or any of the things a princess deserves. She
spent her life in an orphanage and at the ripe old age of four was
transferred to an insane asylum (Yes, they still exist.) where she only survived a few weeks. Praise God he took her home quickly after her transfer. Her starvation, neglect and abuse didn’t last too long. Praise God she can
be the princess He made her to be now that she is in His hands.
Although I know He never left her side I can not help but wonder if God
had (adoptive)parents for Olga who simply had too much
fear to step forward. Maybe they heard one too many times the negative
remarks of family, friends, or even strangers to hear the calling to go get her and bring her home. This is why I
will NEVER shut up about the Orphan. Every child is meant to have a family. Not to die alone in an institution!

PINK TENNIS SHOES!!

2010-10-05T19:34:00.000-07:00

Hmmm why would there be pink tennis shoes with blue tennis shoes on our blog? More information to come later!!!!

Here is Lee. What a cutie!!

2010-10-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

LEE'S PICTURE WILL POSTED SOON!

2010-10-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

Okay I am having computer issues and can't figure out how to get Lee's picture on the site. I will figure it out(when husband gets home from work) :) Lee has stolen my heart. He is already 8 years old and needs a home. As he ages out of the system life for him would be our worst nightmares. This is reality. For us living in American (myself included) reality for the orphans and the poor seem unreal. As I have started on this adoption journey, that reality has become real to me and I can't just close my eyes, turn on the big screen television, go out to eat, enjoy live, and make it all go away. As I am reading the book "Radical", by David Platt (a must read) it has hit me hard that life here on earth is not about me, me, me, me. It is about sacrifices for God to do His Will. We have at most 70-90 years on this earth, but will spend eternity in heaven. I want to prepare and have my treasures in heaven!! I want God to say to me "Good and Faithful Servant." I am praying like crazy that Lee finds a home. Every child was meant to be in a home, to be kissed and hugged and loved by a family. I am reminded too often that I can not save every orphan out there, but I can pray and advocate for them.

PLEASE CONSIDER ADOPTING LEE!!

2010-10-01T07:26:00.001-07:00

Lee has already been transferred to an orphanage for older children.

Lee is an 8 year old boy with Down syndrome and no other health complications. He attends school and receives instruction from a special education teacher. He does not talk, but understands everything that is said to him. He pronounces fragments of words and is receiving instruction to assist with speech.
He can climb stairs and throw/catch a ball. He has difficulty with running and jumping. He eats independently, washes his own hands, folds his own clothes, puts on/takes off his clothes and is potty trained. He follows verbal directions. He is described as happy, obedient, compassionate and stubborn. He plays appropriately with toys and is well liked by the other children. He participates in group activities but prefers to play by himself.

SINGLE MOMS, OLDER PARENTS, & LARGE FAMILIES WELCOME, EASY TRAVEL

2010-09-29T07:13:00.000-07:00

2010-09-28T18:44:00.001-07:00

One Less by Matthew West (The Story Behind The Song) from emicmg on Vimeo.

I AM JUST SAYING. . .

2010-09-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

WARNING: This post may be controversial. The Bible says in Luke 12 the last part of verse 48. . .. .. . And from everyone who has been given much shall much be required: and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more. I was thinking who is this speaking to? I have read that if we make $50,000 or more then we are considered to be over the 90% of the world's weathly!! Gulp! I have never really applied those versus in the Bible that speak about the rich to me. By America's standards we are very middle class if not a tad lower. It says much will be required of me and because I have been entrusted much, they will ask all the more. When I started this adoption process I was surprised at the reactions of some family, friends, etc. I guess when you step out of the "typical American livestyle" people get anxious. Let's see. . . go to school, college, work, get married, have two kids by 35,(very important number to have those kids by) kids grow up(play soccer, etc.) kid's go to college and leave home. Then parents are empty nesters and can "enjoy" life. Go on vacations, do whatever they want, retire, then do more vacations, snowbirds to the south, then live in a beautiful retirement village and enjoy their grandkids. When I decided to "step" out of this process at the step where my kid's all leave home when I am a respectable age . . . Yikes. Yes I am 48 and adopting a 3 1/2 year, which brings my family size to (gasp) four. I still have a tug to bring it to five. :) gasp/faint. Also I have no desire to vacation endlessly until I sit in retirement home. I really feel called to make a difference in this world; for me that is to save the lives of children who will die( if not physically, but emotionally and spiritually). Let's do the math; I will be at least 64 before my youngest leaves home. Well that throws everything out of wack according to the American Dream. But you know what my youngest won't care that this old mom is his mom. He will be so happy to have a family to call his own. And if we adopt one more; which brings my family to five; (depending on God's will) I would much rather have God's blessing when I die(Good and faithful servant) then people's approval. Now I have had my say......

AN EXAMPLE:

2010-09-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

This is taken from a post written by Adeye from her blog, Simple Surrender. The little girl to the right is who she is referring to. This is an example of how God is working through His people to save His precious children!!!!

September 24, 2010

LOVE poured out

Oh. My. Goodness.

I have literally sat staring at my computer. Crying. Laughing. Chills all over. Thanking God. And thanking God some more.

Speechless!

I have been trying all afternoon to find the right words to express what is in my heart. I'm not very eloquent with words, and sometimes I struggle to find just the right words to express myself. Times like today, when everything just comes out all wrong. Type. Delete. Type. Delete. Type. Delete.

I really don't even know how to begin to convey what is in my heart. Every time I write something down, it seems so inadequate to express what I'm feeling right now. I am truly at a complete loss for words.

I am so humbled and amazed. My heart is overflowing with thankfulness and absolute gratitude for you, God's army. His beloved people. You have blown me away.

When I felt positive that I needed to advocate for Yulia, never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that $12,000 would be donated in just two days. Never. I am an emotional mess. The fact that so many of you would open your hearts to a little girl who is languishing in a crib on the other side of the world brings me to my knees. Sobbing.

Such love. Such amazing and unconditional love. Heaven coming down to earth.

There is so much bad news around. I cannot even watch the news on TV or read a newspaper anymore. Everything is so darn depressing. I can't tell you what it does to me (and many others) to SEE good! To SEE the love of God. To SEE the goodness of God being poured out so sacrificially through His people. To SEE a miracle unfolding before our very eyes. To SEE the Body of Christ rally for someone who they have never even met.

And to SEE how desperately and passionately God LOVES orphans. How His absolute desire is that they be rescued and brought into families...no matter what.

It all...well...leaves me a blubbering mess.

I have been so deeply moved by the e-mails I have received over the last few days from families who themselves have raised children who have (or had) Cockayne Syndrome. And from families who have adopted children who they knew would not live long and fruitful lives. Just like precious Chrissie. It truly is so humbling to meet such incredible families. "Whatever, God" people. Those who will serve the Lord with reckless abandon no matter where it takes them, or what He asks them to do.

I am forever changed by the hearts of all of you, God's beautiful people, who have sown seed into Yulia's grant fund. I can tell you that from all the e-mails I have received over the last two days, that the faith of many is being restored...all because so many of you have said "yes" to helping a little girl who so desperately needs someone to come and get her.

Thank you for allowing us all to SEE the goodness of a Father who is alive and well and more than able to show us His miracle working power in 2010.

Please don't stop praying.

Please don't stop spreading the word about Yulia.

Please don't stop trusting with me for her family to find her soon.

And please don't stop giving to Yulia's grant fund. I am still standing and believing that together we can have her adoption FULLY FUNDED by October 8.

Possible? Heavens, YES!

NOTHING is impossible for the Lord God Almighty.

Thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus to Yulia.

Thank you, thank you, thank you...from the bottom of my heart.

So Much More

2010-09-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

We set out on this adoption journey to bring home a little boy that needed a family. I had no idea what else God had planned for me. Reading through the journeys of the people adopting on their blogs has shown me over and over again the power of God and how He demonstrates that power through the people that are adopting these children. I use to think where is God when all of these children are dying in their cribs, not being loved and cared for by a family, some being treated worse than dogs. I have found my answer. GOD IS HERE! He is working through the people that have a heart for the least of these, the discarded. People that are answering the call of God to be radical and step out in faith. Who are these people adopting these children, sometime three at a time, who are these people advocating on their blogs, doing fundraising, giving money until it hurts? Is it the rich, powerful, people who could easily drop 23,000 dollars in a day without a blink of an eye. Nope. I haven't read about any of these people adopting through these blogs.(Now to be fair I am sure some very rich people do adopt). It is the ordinary people fighting God's fight for these orphans. I have learned so much about God, His amazing love and power through this journey. I think I have cried more tears of joy reading through the blogs than ever before. I am in complete awe of God providing for these people at just right time. Thank you God!!!

Taken From A Post from the Nalle Family's Adoption Journey

2010-09-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

Follow the adoption journey of the Nalle family on their Blog at www.covenantbuilders.blogspot.com
But what I really want to tell you about is one of the sweetest moments of our trip. Today we got to visit the baby house where Aaron lived for his first five years, and there we met the Other Valla.
This Valla is a dear, precious old lady who took special care of Aaron from birth. She held him, rocked him, washed him, prayed with him and loved him from his infancy. When Aaron was christened, she became his godmother. When he was baptized, she was the one who held him in her arms. There simply are no words to express how I felt when I saw in her eyes how much she cherished our precious son.She cried when we walked in the room. She clapped her hands together, covered her face with a handkerchief and cried. When we found out who she was, we cried too. I was so overcome with emotion that I almost collapsed into a mound of jello on the floor. I was so blessed to have a chance to meet the Other Valla.It was a beautiful meeting. The director welcomed us with open arms and let us take pictures freely. She told us that she had followed our journey and that everyone there rejoiced when they read that the judge ruled in our favor (We’re not quite sure how she knew all of that!). We toured the place and asked plenty of questions. We saw the bright and colorful rooms that were his home for five years. We saw Aaron’s playground, his toys, and his crib. We saw the rugs that we knew from his pictures. We met some of the other loving caretakers and saw some of the children who shared his life there. There was so much to learn there that we hardly had time to take it all in.When our time there was over, it began to sink in just how much Aaron lost when he was transferred: He lost his godmother. He lost his friends and playmates. He lost the only family he’d ever known. He lost everything. Even though he spent his first five years in an orphanage, it was a safe and loving orphanage. His caretakers truly and deeply loved their bossy, particular little Vanya. When he arrived at the internat where he lives now, he must have felt like he was being punished for some terrible crime. I cannot imagine what went through his mind when his godmother dressed him for the last time. I can’t imagine his grief, or hers, as she placed him in the car, promising him as she did that he WOULD find a family. She had prayed too hard to believe that her prayers would not be heard. I can’t imagine Aaron’s shock when the car pulled into the internat grounds. The contrast is so striking that it takes your breath away. Through the eyes of a five year old boy, it must have been beyond comprehension. I can’t imagine how he felt when he spent his first nights in a place as scary and overwhelming as that internat, with its frightening noises and smells. I can’t imagine the feelings of numbness and betrayal that must have swept over him when, day after day, the whispered promises of his godmother failed to come true. I can hardly believe that after a year in a place like that, he still has the capacity to laugh. I just cannot believe that he has survived. It can only be by God’s grace and the prayers that began when he was just a broken little baby, abandoned by his parents, but not by His God.We are still trying to process what we saw at the baby house. I’m crying even as I write. I am utterly blown away by God’s tender mercies, lavished freely on our precious son. I am still reeling from the testimony of his first caretakers and their fervent desire for him to have a Mama and Papa of his own. I am completely humbled by the simple faith of the precious Other Valla, who steadfastly believed against all evidence to the contrary that Aaron would find a family. Our time with her was too short. We were only there for about 30 minutes, but they were the most precious 30 minutes of our trip. I will carry the words spoken, the hugs shared, the tears shed and the great faith and love exhibited in my heart for the rest of my life. Today made all the agony of the last few months melt away. What a precious gift we received when God laid Aaron on our hearts in January. I am on my knees in grateful thanksgiving that we chose to jump. If we had missed the joy of meeting the Other Valla, missed seeing the faith in her eyes and listening to her humble voice, it would have been a great loss indeed.
Posted by Julia at 2:01 AM 7 comments
Monday, September 20, 2010

Danil needs a home!!

2010-09-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

If we could adopt Danil with Dayton we would!! But both boys are from different countries. I am praying as I know a lot of people also are that Danil will find a home soon. If not he will go to the institution!!! His information is listed below.

2010-09-19T12:13:00.000-07:00

Danil is a little stinker, can't you tell? He has sandy blonde hair and blue eyes. He is HEALTHY, with no heart condition. He eats and sleeps well, is social and active with the other typical children, and has been very well taken care of. He will make a wonderful addition to ANY family!

From an adoptive family who visited with him in September 2010: "Danil is such a sweet boy, gentle and quiet. He will do wonderfully in a family, and can adopted with any of the other children waiting in this town".

I have $675 in my grant fund towards the cost of my adoption!

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

2010-09-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

While we wait for the perfect timing...

they hope they can wait another day.

While we wait for more money...

they wait with nothing.

While we wait for a bigger home with enough room...

they wait for room in our hearts.

While we wait for others approval...

they wait with any dignity they can find.

While we wait for the ideal child....

they wait knowing they are not.

While we wait trying to decide if we can manage another...

they wait trying to manage on their own.

While we wait to see how much we have to give to them...

They are waiting to give us even more.

While we wait for God to provide...

He waits for us to take the first step so He can.

We must NEVER use 'waiting to hear from Him' as an excuse for not doing what He has ALREADY commanded in the bible for us to do... proclaim the truth, care for orphans, serve others, be His hands of justice for the poor, and show compassion.
(James 1v27)

So, what are you waiting for??

Written by and please visit Building the Blocks blog

God's Connections

2010-09-17T20:19:00.000-07:00

We live in a small town surrounded by cornfields. Although don't let me mislead you; we do not drive tractors to school or wear overalls. :) My cousin and I were talking about our adoption and she told us that her neighbors are from the same country that we adopting from. What!! How amazing is that. We connected with the neighbors and they invited us over for a wonderful traditional supper of their country's food. Also we were able to hear the language and try to pronounce a few words ourselves. It was wonderful hearing about our future son's country, experiencing the foods and hearing the language. This wonderful family also offered to talk to our son in his language when he returns to help in the transition. Did I mention the family only lives a few blocks from my dad? God does an amazing job of putting people in our lives at the right times.

Amazing God!!

2010-09-17T20:02:00.000-07:00

If people are searching to see God's awesome works in today's world they just need to read these adoption blogs. God's hand can be seen in the journeys through all the pray answers and how He fits the puzzles of people's lives together. I have been amazed at how money has come in at just the right time and the exact amount in some journeys, or how fast paperwork is completed or returned or the prayers people have poured out for children needing to be adopted ASAP and then how they are chosen by a family. I could go on and on. God is working through these families to save these little ones and reading about the journeys is so uplifting. God is good.

Getting Closer!

2010-09-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we received our federal fingerprint results. We passed and the prints were clear. This was our second set we have turned in. Our first set of prints sent in were too blurry. The big news is today we received our home study in the mail. I hurried to get the documents mailed to USCIS today. I got there just in time to get it in today's mail. Thank you Jesus!! We are so excited to start this next step.

This Makes Me Think. . . . . .

2010-09-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I would like to ask God why He allows poverty, suffering, and injustice when He could do something about it.”

“Well, why don’t you ask Him?”

“Because I’m afraid He would ask me the same question.”

(Anonymous) -a quote from A Hole in the Gospel, by Richard Stearn

What a beautiful picture symbolizing how our Heavenly Father holds us up.

2010-08-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

WAITING,WAITING, WAITING

2010-08-20T13:44:00.000-07:00

Well we are waiting for the results of our second set of fingerprints as our first set was denied. They should be done by now. The fingerprint results are holding up the completion of our homestudy. Also our first set of fingerprints was denied with the FBI for our self-check so we had them done again. I put a call into the FBI to make sure they had received and were processing the second set, but only get voice-mail. So we wait, wait, wait and pray.

Baby Valerie has a Family!!

2010-08-17T06:05:00.000-07:00

We have been prayer warriors for Valerie. Our family has been praying that Valerie would find her family and when I was looking on Reece's Rainbow I saw her beautiful picture on the New Commitment page. Our youngest daughter shouted out "Praise God that Valerie found a family". We adopted our youngest daughter so she knows the feeling of not have a family, but then the awesome feeling of finding your forever family.

MONROE HAS A FAMILY! GOD IS GOOD!!

2010-07-25T11:23:00.000-07:00

Praise God!!! Sweet, sweet Monroe has found a family. I know so many people have been praying for him. I was checking the "My Family Found Me" page and there was Monroe's picture. Sometimes I get so discouraged by all of the precious children that need homes and if not could face the institution. Sometimes I feel like crying, "Why God"!! Then at times like this I remember that God knows the master plan; He sees the whole picture. He is in control. We just need to continue to be faithful prayer warriors for these children. We just need to continue to post children on every blog possible and pray, pray, pray!!! God is Good!!!!!

2010-07-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

July 19, 2010(Post Copied from Adeye from Blog Simple Surrender)

I'm pleading....

Friends, I come to you tonight begging for your prayers. My heart is so burdened for a sweet little boy who so urgently needs our intercession...and a family.

Monroe is five years old. He is so fortunate to still be in a baby house. For those of you unfamiliar with adoptions in our daughter's country, around a childs's fifth birthday they are a transferred to a mental asylum. All children with special needs go there. For most, it is a death sentence. They simply cannot survive the heinous conditions.

Oh my goodness, he is just too sweet for words.

Monroe WILL be transferred in just six months time. That's how long a family has to get to him. The institution he will be moved to is known to be one of the worst in the country. There is no way sweet Monroe can survive there. Absolutely no way.

This adorable little boy deserves the love of a family and the medical intervention he so desperately needs. The fact that Monroe has CP should just be a big whatever. Just like every other child, he deserves a mommy and a daddy to help him become ALL that God has created him to be. There is nothing 'wrong' with Monroe, but everything RIGHT with him. He is created in the image of an Almighty Father--fearfully and wonderfully made just the way he is.

A missionary visited him last month and shared this about him....

I met with the doctor in his Groupa House who brought me back to meet him. The Head Doctor wanted me to meet the children who needed equipment. While measuring him for a chair, she explained to me what was more important was that he get a family. He will be tranferred in six months to the worst institution, restrained in a crib in a dark room. She broke into tears! Monroe has spastic cerebral palsy in all four limbs and is globally delayed. He is able to recognize the voices of his careworkers and understand simple directions. However, due to his spacitiy he is unable to do much of anything. No speech. With therapy he can improve but will always have limitations. His temperament was sweet and his eyes twinkled. He needs a family fast!

I look at this sweet boy in the picture and I am absolutely certain of something--this boy will blossom, grow and astound everyone with his rapid development once he is home. I know it. He just needs to be given a chance at life, an opportunity to learn and grow. Sadly, he will never reach any kind of milestone once he is in an asylum, he will wither away in a dark room and die alone. Fact!

Please will you pray with me? Please will you help me spread the word about Monroe?

All he needs is someone to say, "Here I am Lord, send me!" Everything else is already provided. Due to an incredibly generous benefactor, the adoption costs for Monroe are completely covered! Monroe has a $20 000.00 grant....

$20 000.00!

That is enormous. Never in my years involved in the adoption community have I ever heard of such an amazing grant for one child. Boy does this little guy need it.

Someone asked me if we would go and bring him home? Yes. In a heartbeat. It's a beautiful thing watching children like this change before your very eyes. It's breathtaking--a miracle! I cannot even describe what special needs adoption has done to us--it has changed us forever. But unfortunately in this season of our lives we don't qualify to adopt. And there is absolutely no way around it.

I know there is a family out there for this angelic little boy. They just have to find him. Will you help me spread the word, please? Together as the Body of Christ we can find Monroe's family.

Time is running out. Once he is transferred, it may be very difficult to get him out. Someone needs to go on a rescue mission--sent out by the Lord Himself.

I appreciate your prayers for Monroe more than you can know. I know the Lord hears every single plea on behalf of this angel--I know He will act!

I will give you the treasures of darkness,
riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that I am the LORD,
the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
Isaiah 45:3

Standing and trusting for the life of this child!

If anyone would like more information about Monroe, please contact Andrea Roberts from Reeces Rainbow at bamaroberts@comcast.net.

This was posted by Adeye from the blog Simple Surrender

PRAYERS ARE NEEDED

2010-07-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

This little guy needs a home now. We need all the prayer warriors out there to pray for him. He faces placement in an institution (particularly bad one) if not adopted soon. You can find more information about him on Reece's Rainbow under Waiting Children- Older Children.

PRAISE GOD!!

2010-07-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

Yuri and Wade have a home!! I read the post by another blogger about how these two boys will be adopted by the same family with tears in my eyes. God is Good!!!!

Runnning Toward the Finish Line!!

2010-07-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had our last home study visit. Our social worker visited our home. She made us feel so at ease. Thank you Carla! Now we wait for our completed home study and our second set of fingerprints we had to redo. Then we can send everything off to the USCIS. After we receive approval from the USCIS then we send in our Dossier and wait to hear when we can visit Dayton. I feel like we are making progress to getting our little boy home!!

GETTING DAYTON'S ROOM READY!

2010-07-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

Our last home study visit is July 15th. We have all the paperwork done that we can do up to this point. (did that sentence make sense.):) Now I am working on the family pictures and the best part; Dayton's room. We cleared out a toy room and my husband repainted it. Now time for decorating. We have been shopping and going to garage sales to look for bargains. I am having fun finding toys, clothes, etc. for a little boy. Having three girls I have never decorated for a little boy and I am having fun looking at "boy" themes. I wish I could ask someone what Dayton likes; cars, trains, animals. I guess he probably didn't see Toy Story 3 yet, but he will when he gets home!!! This seems to help past the time as I try patiently to wait, wait, wait.

DAYTON

2010-07-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

We have been deciding what to do about our little guy's name. "Delvin" is the name that Reece's Rainbow gave him to protect his identity. After asking questions it seems that sometimes the children in the orphanage are not called by their real names, but given nicknames. Also sometimes the child's real name is too hard to pronounce. So we decided to name "Delvin" Dayton. We are so excited to have given our little guy a name!! Also as we were thinking about naming him Dayton, on our way to our first home study visit in a different town we drove down a road named. . . you guessed it DAYTON.

Happy 4th Anniversary to Reece's Rainbow

2010-06-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

This is powerful!! Click here:

Too cute!!

2010-06-13T08:46:00.000-07:00

With three daughters I have never shopped for a little boy. Yesterday we went to a garage sale and found this adorable little suit. I had to get it. The couple selling it only had used it once as their son was in a wedding and it was a great price. Hopefully it will be the right size for our little guy. It is hard to tell what size of clothes he will wear when he comes home. Summer is a great time for garage sales. Who knows what I will find next. :)