Happiness is........

Just a quick photo shoot with the girls!

2010-10-17T21:20:00.005-06:00

2010-04-29T14:45:00.002-06:00

This picture, in all it's beauty is just like their wedding! Timeless, full of love and romance and pure bliss! The wedding of our first and oldest daughter is a dream forever to be remembered as "perfection in every way!"

10 Days and counting.....

2010-04-13T20:44:00.005-06:00

We are ready for the adventure to come. All the little details that complete a perfect party, the house is buzzing with excitement! It has been such a memorable time to put together the fun things to come. I can't believe it's only 10 days away. When Chase found out it was so soon, he teared up and said "I think I am going to cry, but in a good way!" I thing Ellie and Carl had it right with "what's next"? Here's to the Adventure!

A sneak peek!

2010-03-13T10:22:00.003-07:00

We're Engaged!

2010-01-13T18:06:00.007-07:00

Not only are we overjoyed about the marriage of our daughter but we gain an amazing son! We are feeling very blessed! What a fun Christmas present! A memory to be treasured forever!

Two years home, couldn't resist posting!!!!!

2009-11-25T09:22:00.008-07:00

I love to take photographs of the kids....

2009-11-22T13:39:00.007-07:00

BYU Dance Competetion/The Competetion......

2009-11-16T14:39:00.011-07:00

An amazing couple finishing in the TOP TEN out of two hundred and twelve couples! WHAT.........They worked so hard and it paid off. They have got it going on!!!!!!

BYU Dance Competetion/The warm-up!

2009-11-16T14:29:00.005-07:00

Halloween.....

2009-11-10T08:32:00.006-07:00

State Cup Champs 2009!

2009-10-24T14:40:00.005-06:00

This amazing group of boys just won the Utah State Cup Championship! Honestly, Ian is the MVP for a shut out in PK's after a full game, and OT! Insane!!!!!!! They have all worked so hard for this win and we are so proud of all of them. High five to our son Matt!

17 Years goes by so fast!

2009-10-20T09:00:00.004-06:00

This amazing cake was made by all the "boys" for Drew. Isn't it amazing! I was so proud of them for their design. Chase did the drawing and the design for the cake. They had a blast! This year was so hard, I can't believe my son is 17! Good grief, where does the time go! He is an amazing, fun-loving, kind hearted young man. We are so proud of him!

Happy Birthday Addy!

2009-09-22T18:20:00.007-06:00

Every little girls wants to be a fairy princess! Addy you are so joyful and we are so blessed to have you! We love you so so much!

Birthday Cake Making.....101!

2009-09-21T22:08:00.007-06:00

Here we go.....Can we do it......Yes we can!

How in the world does such a sweet cake come out like this! It's pretty fun to see the progress and the endless things you can create! We love you Addy and had so much fun making your princess cake!

Friday Night.....

2009-09-11T17:23:00.002-06:00

What does my teenage son spring on me? Mom, me and my friends want to go and get dinner and go to the temple. After that we might meet up at our schools volleyball game. Is that okay?

Wow, do I love this boy and his amazing soul. He never ceases to amaze me. Look out world, he is coming!

1st day of Pre-school for Cam!

2009-09-10T20:07:00.002-06:00

Pre-school is such a "magic" word for Cam. She is so eager to learn and so bright. I can't wait to see her soar!

Lake Powell! Fun, mud and sun!

2009-09-08T12:42:00.009-06:00

Addy's first day of Kindergarten!

2009-09-07T09:41:00.003-06:00

Addy was squealing with excitement to get on the bus for her first day of kindergarten! It's always bitter sweet to send your babies off to kindergarten. Hoping that they are happy and filled with the joys and wonders of the world! I think she was for sure! It was a really great day for her!

Nearly a year ago, we are growing up fast!

2009-08-30T09:26:00.002-06:00

Another first day of school!

2009-08-26T11:10:00.006-06:00

I love the excitement of a third grader who lays his outfit out days before school is to begin. The rehearsal of the day in his mind. The wonder of lunch and recess. The "my tummy kind of hurts". I treasure these sweet moments. And especially the posing on the front porch. I'm not to sure the older kids love it, but it's tradition! This year brings preschool, kindergarten, third grade, ninth grade, eleventh grade and sophmore in college. Good garbage, bring on the botox!

Dad and the boys golfing! Chase driving, Yikes!!!

2009-08-24T20:10:00.005-06:00

Father, Dad......teacher, and Hero!

2009-06-22T22:50:00.007-06:00

Daddy, we will never forget all the times you said "yes" to: will you push me on the swings, will you read to me, will you help me, will you take me to....., will you watch a movie with me, will you give me....., will you give me a kiss? The list includes so many other things that you do for us and we will never forget your unconditional love for us and all the selfless things that you do to make our lives so happy and blessed. You are the best Dad ever!

Addy gets her EEG, such a brave girl!

2009-06-03T16:52:00.006-06:00

My little Addy, I know this day was hard and scary. I am so proud of you and you were so very brave. Maybe in a week or so we will have some answers that will help us sweet girl. We love you!

For the love of the game!

2009-05-12T16:50:00.003-06:00

2009-05-05T15:01:00.007-06:00

Girls, your Ethiopian Mommy and Daddy would be so happy to see you in your traditional clothing. You look absolutely beautiful and I know they can feel it!

A Prom to Remember.........

2009-05-02T20:25:00.004-06:00

Friendships that last a lifetime!

UNBELIEVABLE!

2009-04-24T17:49:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, Chase observed a nest in the tree outside our kitchen window. As we all know, boys will be boys so up the tree he went. What a wonderful surprise it was when he discovered this delicately built Robin's nest. In it lay two beautiful blue eggs. Nature and all the miracles it brings takes my breath away!

Easter and such!

2009-04-23T20:04:00.009-06:00

An Addy Miracle......

2009-04-11T16:32:00.002-06:00

We continue to take baby steps forward with Addy....Today while at the beauty supply, the girls were helping me pick up a few things. The shelves were lined with various products. Addy looked at me and said "it's missing Mom". I turned around to see her pointing to a upc/price tag that was in fact missing. I couldn't believe my ears. I nearly jumped out of my boots! She was so happy with her praise that she noticed such a thing. Her willingness to try and to develop is what keeps me going! She is a tender girl and gives us so much of her loving heart. We keep praying for miracles like today! It was indeed a great day!

More birthday pictures....It's so easy to get carried away, isn't it?

2009-04-06T09:14:00.008-06:00

Happy Birthday Cameryn!

2009-04-03T07:56:00.004-06:00

Sixteen short months ago you came to our family, there is no greater blessing!

Chase's big day...........Fall 2008'

2009-04-02T14:50:00.005-06:00

Feb, 2009 Carribean.....The sun felt so good!

2009-04-01T15:01:00.020-06:00

Happy Birthday Mamoo!

2009-03-26T08:32:00.006-06:00

14 things about Matt:
1. Loves Soccer, gee do ya think!
2. Loves peanut butter on waffles...
3. Wears socks most of the time (funny)!
4. Never has to be reminded about soccer practice or games!
5. Doesn't like milk...
6. Loves a good game of pickup basketball!
7. Has many great friends....lifelong buddies!
8. Excellent student, self motivated!
9. Best friends with his older brother....what a gift!
10. Dances with the girls (so tender and endearing)!
11. Loves chocolate donuts from Chevron!
12. He's pushing 5'10" tall already!
13. Is kind to everyone (so much like his Daddy)!
14. And last but not least, he is his Dad's MINI ME!

What an inspiring son you are Matthew. We love you and think you are just the best!

Our newest "little scout"!

2009-03-23T09:15:00.006-06:00

The events...the milestones...and most importantly the building of character of a wonderful young man!

Valentine's 2009'

2009-02-10T08:47:00.010-07:00

"It stands in the garden border
So elegant and tall,
The lovely yellow sunflower,
The happiest flower of all.
It loves to hold its head high
Towards the Heavens above,
For it knows that God is watching
And tending it with love.
A lesson can be learned
From this gracious yellow flower,
It doesn't question how it grows
But trusts God's wondrous powers."
Marian Jones

Thanks Dean-o for the beautiful bouquet of flowers. I love sunflowers, they make me feel so happy and warm, just like you do! I think this poem is a great combination of the two of us, how fitting, a beautiful yellow flower!Happy Valentines Day!

10 Days and counting!

2009-02-09T12:22:00.002-07:00

2009-02-09T12:17:00.002-07:00

Good Luck Chase! We love you so much and are so proud of all that you do!

The Cutest BYU Co-ed's Ever!

2009-02-08T18:31:00.004-07:00

Are these the cutest girls ever? I just love that these girls stand so strong together. They all have amazing lives ahead of them! Keep up the great work girls!

Ethiopian Christmas Party, 2009

2009-02-07T11:29:00.006-07:00

We had over 100 people this year at our 2nd Annual Ethiopian Christmas Celebration. People brought tasty dishes like injera and doro wat. It was a wonderful party topped off with Ethipian Dancers that absolutely won the hearts of the kids right over. It was so beautiful and brought back so many wonderful memories of Ethiopia for us. I can't believe how many new families we had this year! How wonderful for our children to grow up with so many other Ethiopia children & families! Thanks Nate for the photos.....And especially to Rachel for being so gracious to host our party!

There is no greater gift than to see the rippling effect of a Mother's love for her children!

2009-02-06T13:55:00.003-07:00

Scout Camp at Goblin Valley, 2008

2009-02-05T08:53:00.003-07:00

Thanks to all the Dad's for spending hours to mold our boys into wonderful young men!

The wonderous world of snow......Jan. 2008

2009-02-04T08:19:00.005-07:00

Dreaming of the sun.....Las Vegas March, 2008

2009-02-03T14:48:00.006-07:00

The biggest, fluffiest, best sugar cookies ever!

2009-01-30T16:40:00.005-07:00

Sugar Cookies

1 C. butter
2 C. Sugar
4 eggs
1 C. sour cream
2 T. Vanilla
6 C. flour
8 t. baking powder
1/2 t. soda
1/2 t. salt

Bake at 375 degrees

Frosting

1/2 C. butter
1 pound powdered sugar
....taste vanilla or almond extract
1/4 C. Milk

I like to roll them pretty thick. They are so yummy! Enjoy

Making a PineWood Derby Car.....

2009-01-28T09:26:00.005-07:00

This is now our third PineWood Derby. However, I have obviously forgotton the obsession from the Dad on making a "perfect" car. It totally cracks me up watching all "four" of the boys obsessing over the project. These are priceless memories!

Food Storage 101....

2009-01-26T13:48:00.004-07:00

So after many years of saying "I really should, I think I can, I know I should" or any other lame excuses that I have used to justify why I haven't prioritized food storage, I have gotten the message! We received so many great and inspiring ideas about how easy and how obviously important it is to have food storage yesterday the I have committed to a new year, a new plan.

It has always been so overwhelming to me to think about food storage because I have this all or nothing way of thinking. But yesterday, I changed my thought process. I realized I could make it a quest, hobby and certainly fun if I was focused on something great for my family. So I decided to buy one thing every day for my food storage. Certainly if items are on sale for $3/1.00 you would buy three. But that is the basic idea. At the end of the year, look how much I will have accomplished. I also want to take it one step further. The item (s) need to cost less than one dollar. Totally something I can do since I find the time and money to support my Diet Mt. Dew habit, right! And the third step in this is to incorporate exercise into this great/fun plan. So, weather cooperating, I will walk to one of the local grocery stores, which for me are only about 5-6 minutes tops and pick up the new item of the day. I am also going to journal my items so I can see the progress at a glance in my purse. The picture I posted is my start. $8/1.00 tomato sauce for Saturday, Sunday (I will make this day up on Sat. or Mon.) is $1.00 fruit cocktail, Monday is $1.00 can of chili and I threw in a can of fruit cocktail for kicks! I think this will be a fun way for me to manage a task that haunts me and completely freaks me out. I hope the excitement lasts. I know I will gain a lot of comfort for all of my efforts. What a great feeling to know that you are prepared.

Happy Valentines to Me.....

2009-01-25T16:39:00.002-07:00

Dean-o made me a beautiful Lemon Meringue Pie for Valentines Day! He has always loved to put the LOVE touch on treats......I love you too!

Thanks guys for the new railing....it's gorgeous!

2009-01-18T18:35:00.003-07:00

How to dismantle a railing.....by Chase!

2009-01-16T14:23:00.005-07:00

Dreamy Girl Hair........

2009-01-15T11:57:00.002-07:00

LOVE THE FRO CAM!!!!!!!

This is a first for me.......

2009-01-05T11:59:00.003-07:00

This is a confession from a person who has never in the history of over 20 years of marriage left her Christmas tree up past 2 hours into the 26th of December. I find it quite amusing that I am standing here today taking a picture of my tree still up, and I must say quite happy and content to stay there! Hmmmmmm. I don't really know what this says about me, but I kind of like it!

Fun filled holiday season!

2009-01-02T15:40:00.009-07:00

Family, eating, sleeping, more eating and lots of just being together! Just what the doctor ordered! Many moments to remember but a special one to note:
Addy started "playing" with Cam and Chase. She was really engaged and participating in the fun of siblings! That was a miracle! As the new year is upon us and we look back on our journey it is evident to us that it is the small miracles that make our family strong and that give us HOPE!

Santa Clause came to town!

2008-12-26T13:04:00.007-07:00

You have to love Christmas Church Dresses!

2008-12-22T17:21:00.004-07:00

After an eventful weekend filled with new hair do's for the girls, of course we had to show off their beautiful Christmas dresses. You can't imagine the magic that occurs when the girls dawn a new dress! I love it!

Presenting Princess Addy!

2008-12-20T20:27:00.005-07:00

Addy too loves her new braids. She kept tossing her hair and saying "Mama do it?" She thought that was pretty cool. I was so lucky to receive many special kisses from Addy as I did her hair. I love my girl.......

Deb's extension debut!!!

2008-12-19T17:50:00.002-07:00

I am so thrilled with my first set of extensions for Cam. She looks so beautiful and those bouncy curls are too much! Thanks Rachel for a fun afternoon playing with hair!

Sleeping beauty....

2008-12-18T21:31:00.005-07:00

As I tucked in the girls tonight, I was greeted with a wonderful surprise. For 13 months, Addy has slept with all of her covers over her face as if to hide in fear. In Ethiopia, first of all it was very cold at night, so I am sure she was taught to cover her head, and I can't imagine the noise and just the pitch black of night that would scare such a sweet little girl to death. And the fear of roaming animals that might enter their hut and scare the family would just be terrifying to anyone. Tonight,however, she had her covers tucked gently beneath her chin with her hands place sweetly beside her cheek. She was breathing so calmly. These are the moments I pray for daily with my sweet Addy! She is slowly emerging. What a treasured moment. I never want to forget it. It is progress......I know you are strong Addy!

Where to begin.....

2008-12-18T20:15:00.004-07:00

I am going to post completely out of order, surely to mix things up a bit. Really, I am posting because I have come to realize through our recent move how terribly much I miss all of my friends and their dear children. I do think however that I can become re-committed to posting so that somehow I can keep the connection going. I have so many things to say about the last 10+ months. I hope you enjoy the stories. This past labor day we were able to visit Mt. Rushmore with some family. We had so much fun seeing a new part of the country. The girls loved spending time with their cousins. It was a trip right up there at the top of the list. However, we deeply missed Ash who was busily getting ready to hit the books at the Y!

It's time for an update......

2008-02-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy I don't know where the time goes each day. I am so behind, I am not sure where to begin, but here goes. The girls are sleeping through the night, yea! That has been wonderful. There were a few really long nights initially, but they love their room and especially their books. Their favorite are the ones with the buttons on the side and they can push and make fun sounds with. They both have a great love for "Dora the Explorer". She is a cute girl, I can see why they like her. We watch her on TV and they have books and toys with "Dora" on it. She is a fav!

I have never gone through so many eggs in my life! The girls LOVE eggs! They usually eat 2-3 each every day along with some oranges or maybe a cup of oatmeal. They love breakfast! They are starting to enjoy some TV while they wait for me to cook their breakfast. I think they understand so much more English now that it is somewhat enjoyable. They both have the funniest sense of humor. Whenever something funny happens in the house or on TV they are very quick to point it out and to start laughing. It is contagious for sure!

Addy started preschool and just loves it. I have really seen a change in her attempts to talk although she (most of the time) still chooses to speak her native language. She talks a million miles a minute when I pick her up from school. It is so cute and so animated. The teacher has told me how the kids just cheer when she says or repeats a word in English. They are very sweet to her and cheer her on!

Cami would jump right into preschool herself if she could. She still needs to tackle the potty thing. All in due time. She is an amazing help at the grocery store though. She and I usually pick a time and run and do the shopping when Addy is in school. She is a charmer and always waves and says Hi to anyone that passes by! She is very loveable and is really doing well on her English too!

I continue to be in sheer amazement at how resilient children are. The girls have adapted so well and are making such wonderful progress. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't look and them and think of their birth parents and just have such great love and admiration for them.

It is shocking to me.......

2007-11-29T13:17:00.001-07:00

We have officially been home 12 days and the progress we are making is unbelievable. The girls know their little routine, what happens (generally speaking) and what comes next. A few words in English come out each day. Their eyes look so much more content. As each day passes I realize how precious a child's spirit is. They depend on us so much. I have learned with the girls as well as our older kids how much consistent routines help them. They feel so able and confident when they know what to do next. It is truly amazing. We made it out to the mall today, stroller and all. The girls just sat there and were so well behaved. It was such a treat for me, I actually got a bit of Christmas shopping done. It was fun to be in the mall hearing the Christmas music playing softly as we wandered about. The girls love the car and the stroller. Let's keep our fingers crossed on that one, huh! xoxo

Home at last, all safe and sound!

2007-11-27T18:00:00.000-07:00

Our journey has been so wonderful, words could never describe the intense feelings we have had over the past two weeks. We are simply amazed at how the girls are doing, they have adjusted so well already. The simple things in life like tubby time and having as much water as you want really helps keep us grounded. The look of love in the girls eyes is so precious, we just love them so much. Here are a few of our homecoming photos. We are so thankful to have so many dear friends and neighbors. We were greeted with so much love and kindness, thank you all!

Shopping and getting ready for the day

2007-11-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we toured Addy's school (you will see pictures). She has many friends there. When we drove up they all chanted "Ainalem, Ainalem, Ainalem"! It was so sweet. The picture of the lady holding Addy is her Nanny and one of her teachers. They seem to rotate them around the main care center and the school so the children have alot of consistency. It is amazing. And another amazing thing is that everyone knows all of the children, probably 120 kids that we have seen. The pictures in the van were when we were out shopping. The girls love the car. The picture of the girls brushing their teeth was this morning after they got dressed. They really love each other. Cameryn dances around and calls her sisters name, very lovingly.

We are having kind of a free day and tomorrow we will go out and do more shopping.

Addy's school

2007-11-15T12:04:00.000-07:00

New Pictures of our Trip (#1)

2007-11-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

We are having an amazing time. The pictures of "us" are in front of the guest house and of Carrie and me on the swing on the grass area outside the guesthouse. It has been really fun. The man you won't recognize is the girls Uncle. What a special treat to meet him.

Love to all, the pajama pictures are right after their first bath. Addy loved it, Cami wasn't so sure.

New Pictures of our Trip (#2)

2007-11-14T08:19:00.001-07:00

New Pictures of our Trip (#3)

2007-11-14T08:15:00.001-07:00

Ethiopia Trip Hosana village and Restaurant

2007-11-12T08:07:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we traveled to Hosanna. It is where we saw an amazing small village. Most of the pictures were taken in the village. We stopped along the roadside and were able to tour a hut where you will see the children inside and Dean and Corey outside with village children. We are doing well, we are in love with this country. The pictures of the dancers were from a dinner we attended and had an amazing time.

Ethiopia Trip Hosana village

2007-11-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

Ethiopia Trip continued

2007-11-12T07:34:00.001-07:00

Traditional Ethiopian Restaurant. Injera, Doro wat, and dancers oh my!

Ethiopia Day 1 Part 1

2007-11-10T09:37:00.000-07:00

This is the first time we saw Adeline. She was on a field trip at an amusement park. It was snack time with juice and cookies.

Finally... that's my mommy!

We are going to get Cameryn. Addy can't wait to see her sister.

This is our photographer and video crew. Aren't they beautiful! We are just about to the van.

It's amazing how much Addy loves all of the physical attention. Hugs and kisses...

Ethiopia Day 1 Part 2

2007-11-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

I found Mom's zipper. That is pretty fun.

First time holding Daddy's hand.

Miss personality. This is a classic Addy face. She's trying to hold back a smile!

Don't smile, don't do it!

Enchanted Addy!

Ethiopia Day 1 Part 3

2007-11-10T09:30:00.001-07:00

Ethiopian beauty!

This is the first time that we met Cameryn!

Precious baby!

Ethiopian family picture... all together at last...

Oh mom, forgot to face the camera.

Ethiopia Day 1 Part 4

2007-11-10T09:27:00.001-07:00

Addy smiling down at Cameryn. She had missed her sister so much!

I needed to take a good look at my baby! Wow! What a moment! I want to freeze this in time!

Addy is chummy with Daddy-o!

Cameryn can't wait to meet her brothers and sisters back home!

The girls are a miracle!

2007-11-09T08:04:00.001-07:00

This has been the most amazing day. Our girls are so beautiful and loving. We are just so blessed.
We are having terrible troubles regarding our camera files. The megapixels are too huges. We are doing research now and hope to post pictures tomorrow. Sorry to disappoint. The girls are a miracle. We are all safe and having a wonderful time.

Testing for the trip, can we do it?

2007-11-02T22:18:00.000-06:00

We are doing a "test" to see if our camera is uploading properly to the laptop. We want to make sure all of the kinks are worked out ahead of time. It will be so fun to post our photos from Ethiopia, four short days away. Spider man and I have some work to do. It's a good thing he is so happy! xoxoxoxoxo

A song by Chase.....

2007-10-31T05:04:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, Chase was singing in the other room, it just so happens the girls playroom. He was holding some of their dolls and checking out the bottles and such. I could hear him singing from the other room. I quietly stepped closer to see if I could hear the words better. It went something like this"mmmm, there was a baby named Adeline and she has a sister named Cameryn, mmmmm (more humming) and then he just kept some melody going with the same words over and over again. It seriously was the sweetest thing I had ever heard. After he came down for breakfast he said to me "Mom, do you know why we are so lucky?" I said, no, tell me why.....he said" because we are adopting" and then he stood up and came over and gave me the biggest hug. He is truly a dear child. WOW, that was a moment I never want to forget. xoxo

Introducing Adeline and Cameryn

2007-10-24T15:46:00.000-06:00

At last we are finally able to post photos of our daughters, Adeline and Cameryn! Aren't they just gorgeous! We are coming girls, it won't be long now. Happy day! The count down is on. We will be traveling in two short weeks. See you soon, xoxoxo!

We are out of court!!!!!!

2007-10-19T09:09:00.000-06:00

Yesterday morning we received the most magical phone call. Our agency called and I saw the caller ID but didn't think it was "the call". She said hi, the normal. I said what's up? She said I have good news. I said, oh what (ever so calmly), certainly not thinking I was going to hear FANTASTIC news. She said that we were through court! I just gasped and said, what did you just say? She repeated her great news! I just couldn't believe it. She said the courts heard our case and we were done and our travel date was set. It is the most glorious news we have ever received, short of their referral. I think I cried all day, off and on. I didn't realize how much this has been weighing on my mind. The adreline rush of this news is amazing. Now it's time to get to work. In three weeks we will get to meet our daughters for the first time. What a day it will be! We both got our shots for traveling and I printed our packing list today. Gosh, it feels so great to be a Mom again. We will keep you updated on all of the latest news and thanks so much for all of the support, we are so lucky!!!!!!!! xoxoxo

You name the problem......

2007-10-03T14:36:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it is October 3rd and here I am writing about yes, problems. You name it. Courts not open, courts not hearing cases, no phone lines, power outages at the courts! Can you believe it, neither can we. As we ponder the sweet meeting between us and our girls, these RIDICULOUS delays are starting to drive us (me) crazy. On a lighter note, yesterday was a sweet day. One of our neighbors did his Eagle Scout project and did a fantastic job. His project was to gather toys/cash to buy needed supplies for AHOPE and for our care center in Ethiopia. Our hearts were touched by all the love and support of our community. We will be taking the donations with us (hopefully soon) and we will visit AHOPE to take pictures of the children and the donations for our scouting friends. Thanks to everyone for yet again supporting us in every way possible. I just know how much everyone is going to love our girls! Oh, I did receive another physical update, the girls are holding their weight and growing a little taller. YEA! xoxo

Update........

2007-09-23T08:51:00.000-06:00

Well, without trying to get too excited, we think progress may be in the works. We hope to hear something this week regarding our case. We are so desperate to get our girls home, it's so hard to be on the roller coaster!!!!!!!!! The updated pictures have been taken and should be forwarded to me tomorrow. I must say, 90 days is a long time, I wonder what my sweet girls look like now.........Beautiful, I am sure. We will continue to update this week as soon as we hear anything. xoxo

When the baby becomes the big brother....

2007-08-29T13:43:00.000-06:00

Well, it's official. C is now in school all day. Wow, I don't have a clue where the time has gone. He is such a joyful boy and brings to much love to our family. It is very quiet around here, but we all know that won't last forever. He has completely transformed himself into a "big brother". He is so ready and so anxious for the girls to get home. He was watching a commercial with a "barbie house" in it and he was pulling faces at it, yuk, ew, dumb etc., until I reminded him that someone else in the family might like it. Then he said "the girls". It still wasn't cool but I thought it was adorable to see him thinking about how they would love it. Two studly boys have been walking to school together again and that is always fun, and of course big Sis is on cloud nine. She has such an amazing group of friends and has a lot of fun things going on in her life. Too fun!!!!

Ethiopian Court.....

2007-08-22T11:02:00.000-06:00

This morning, I received word that our case will not be heard until the re-opening around September 20th or so. I can honestly say I wasn't surprised. I am not sure if that is a good thing or I am just more emotionally prepared. At any rate, it should only be about 30 more days until our case is heard. That is so exciting, see the beautiful silver lining? I am so madly in love with these precious little girls, I can't wait to smother them with kisses! We will keep you posted! xoxo

A sacred promise from a Mother to her children...

2007-08-21T20:13:00.000-06:00

Today, I have been thinking alot about my Girls birth Mother and Father. I have also been very reflective of the birth of our four other children. I couldn't help but to think back to the promises we made during our wedding ceremony and how applicable this promise is to our children. I am grateful that we had an official ceremony to signify our marriage and our commitment to each other. I thought if only I had this ceremony with my children. So, I have created this "promise" on behalf of my children and had a silent ceremony on behalf of all of my babies. As you read this, imagine this applies to your children, it is very powerful and a great reminder to me of the love I have for all of my children.....

Dearly Beloved, we are gathered together here in the sign of God – and in the face of this company – to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony, which is commended to be honorable among all men; and therefore – is not by any – to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly – but reverently, discreetly, advisedly and solemnly. Into this holy estate these two persons present now come to be joined. Marriage is the union of husband and wife in heart, body and mind. It is intended for their mutual joy – and for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity. But more importantly – it is a means through which a stable and loving environment may be attained.Through marriage we make a commitment together to face their disappointments – embrace their dreams – realize their hopes – and accept each other’s failures. We promise one another to aspire to these ideals throughout our lives together – through mutual understanding – openness – and sensitivity to each other.We are here today – before God – because marriage is one of His most sacred wishes. This occasion marks the celebration of love and commitment with which this man and this woman begin their life together. He joins you together in one of the most sacred bonds. This is a beginning and a continuation of their growth as individuals. With mutual care, respect, responsibility and knowledge comes the affirmation of each one’s own life happiness, growth and freedom. With respect for individual boundaries comes the freedom to love unconditionally. Within the emotional safety of a loving relationship – the knowledge self-offered one another becomes the fertile soil for continued growth. With care and responsibility towards self and one another comes the potential for full and happy lives. These moments are so meaningful to all of us, for “what greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are joined together – to strengthen each other in all labor – to minister to each other in all sorrow – to share with each other in all gladness.This relationship stands for love, loyalty, honesty and trust, but most of all for friendship. Before they knew love, they were friends, and it was from this seed of friendship that is their destiny. Do not think that you can direct the course of love – for love, if it finds you worthy, shall direct you.Marriage is an act of faith and a personal commitment as well as a moral and physical union between two people. Marriage has been described as the best and most important relationship that can exist between them. It is the construction of their love and trust into a single growing energy of spiritual life. It is a moral commitment that requires and deserves daily attention. Marriage should be a life long consecration of the ideal of loving kindness – backed with the will to make it last. Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, for richer, for poorer, for better, for worse, in sadness and in joy, to cherish and continually bestow upon her your heart’s deepest devotion, forsaking all others, keep yourself only unto her as long as you both shall live?

I found the words of this ceremony not only very close to ours but I truly love substituting the love and the commitment that I have for my children in these words. I would stand at any time to state my devotion to my sacred children. I feel so blessed and so very grateful to be their Mother. xoxo

Yea, the girls are gaining weight!

2007-08-17T13:54:00.000-06:00

Yea, we have great news. The girls are both gaining weight. A is now up to 35.5 lbs and C is up to 27.5 lbs. This is a great change and definitely a change in the right direction. Some children don't gain any weight and some children actually lose weight during the time they are waiting for the family to arrive due to illness or stress. We are so happy. We are hoping for updated pictures soon. Keep eating girls, we love you!!!!!!! xoxoxoxox

Here's the latest......

2007-08-16T17:38:00.000-06:00

Well, the latest and greatest news is really NONE! We are still in limbo. The only thing we seem to know for sure is: The girls are sisters, the girls are in the care center and our paperwork is sitting in the courts. Not much to add but I felt like I needed to update the ole blogspot. Goodness sakes, this is surely the longest roller coaster ride I personally have ever been on. We are however very grateful for our adoption agency who we know is working very hard on our behalf. I don't know what I would do if that relationship wasn't rock solid! If I had to guess, I would say that we will travel sometime in the the second week of October. The only reservation I have about guessing is just like guessing how much someone weighs, you can be way off either way! Thanks to all of you for your continued love, prayers and support. Keep hanging on with us, we need you by our side. xoxo

A sad and tearful delay.....

2007-08-01T17:02:00.000-06:00

This morning, we received word from our agency that our case will not be heard before the courts close. I must say, this news was definitely a shock. Totally unexpected by all, including our agency. They were sure that there wouldn't be a problem getting through, but as luck would have it, we won't be traveling until sometime in the later part of October now. It is hard to find the silver lining in this news, but hope and the love for the girls will prevail. It's just too hard to be sad! We will just have to suck it up and press on. The girls did receive our package and hopefully are enjoying their clothes, toys and the scrapbooks I put together. We should be receiving an updated set of pictures. When they arrive, we will let you know. xoxo

Butterflies, bumble bees and a kitty cat....

2007-07-31T21:13:00.000-06:00

These things, just to name a few, are the special little critters you will find hidden in a secret garden I stenciled for the girls. As you sit in their bed, they can look across their tiny little toes at this happy place. I just live for this kind of stuff! I have had so much fun doing their room and trying to imagine what it will be like when they are finally here, in the house, in their room, and laughing and playing. We can't wait. I will post a picture of their room, hopefully tomorrow. I started washing some of their clothes to get ready for the trip, and Jen.....you were right, little pink girly things in the wash is the best. Funny, I don't seem to mind those loads! I bought the girls a gigantic sticker book with "first words" in it. I think it will be awesome for some language development for the trip home and if for nothing else, we can decorate the airplane dinner trays! xoxo

Just a little update!

2007-07-27T13:28:00.000-06:00

We received great news today. Our paperwork has been submitted to the Ethiopian Courts. We will be praying that all of the documentation they need is in perfect order so that things go through without a hitch. This is absolutely fantastic! Without getting the hopes up to sky HIGH, maybe we will travel earlier than previously expected. Oh, and you know we will be all over that! xoxo

Would you believe it if I told you......

2007-07-23T13:58:00.000-06:00

that there are 6 million orphans in all of Africa or Ethiopia? What did you guess? The correct answer is Ethiopia. I share this number with you because, yes it is terribly difficult to wrap you mind around and it seems so unimaginable. However, IT IS TRUE! I also share this with you in the hopes that anyone out there who has maybe been thinking of adopting from Ethiopia or any other country, that you might be guided to make the decision to change the life of an innocent child. I remember when we (hubby and I) would talk about adopting but we really never moved forward with action. I guess those birthdays racking up came in handy for once in my life! We have loved every minute of the adoption process and we don't even have our beautiful girls home yet. If somehow this message touches you, please take action for these beautiful and innocent children. Thank you for letting me share my thoughts..xoxo

Wow, it's really happening!!!!!!

2007-07-19T11:41:00.000-06:00

Back on big Daddy's birthday was the first real moment that we realized that we might actually adopt. I have to tell you now that it's really happening it is so joyous and so amazing! It's hard to believe that in about 60 days we will have these two little people who will see us for the first time and they will have no idea how much they have been wanted to become part of our family. One of the hidden blessings of adopting is the wait time....(did I just say that)! All of the thoughts about becoming parents again and hoping that your children have all of the things they need in order to feel loved and hopeful for the future. To develop their talents and make all of their dreams come true. What a miracle, it really is!

It's time to get busy, I have walls to paint and bedding to pick out. Thanks again for all your prayers for the girls. xoxo

2007-07-14T19:11:00.000-06:00

....... Pink, fluffy, polka dots, and the like!!!

I am having so much fun shopping for the girls. It is a riot. I didn't realize how fun girly pajamas could be! And of course you need lots of headbands with flowers and bows! I haven't really even started on the shoe thing for fear of way off sizing but soon that will be in the bag too! We are compiling a scrapbook for each of the girls to send to Ethiopia on Monday, actually it goes to our agency in Minnesota first and then off to the girls. We are crazy in love and can't wait to see them...............xoxo

2007-07-10T17:19:00.000-06:00

The best news ever...........
Today was the day. We received our referral for two adorable sisters, ages 4 and 2! We are so happy and are madly in love with these girls. They have a beautiful story that we will keep near and dear to our hearts. We can't post pictures until we have made it through court but if you e-mail me I can share. We are going out to get some PINK clothes and start all the preparations for the girls homecoming. We should travel sometime in September. I can't explain how great it feels to get this news today. We are very grateful and feel very blessed. xoxo

The door isn't shut just yet....

2007-07-02T11:10:00.000-06:00

Well, I just received an update from our agency. They are still expecting a few more referrals this week so she hasn't shut the door for our referral. Actually, this is pretty amazing. I really thought once again that we would be done for the summer. There is still hope. I love this process, even though waiting is so hard it makes you really dig deep and explore so many things about this life. I love having so much HOPE and FAITH in this adoption. Love to all and thanks once again for all your love and support, it helps so much and is so dear to us. xoxo

Picnic with Ethiopian Children & Families!

2007-06-23T16:23:00.000-06:00

Last night we were lucky enough to enjoy a picnic with an Ethiopian Adoption Group which we are now members of. It was more than amazing. It was such a special time for us to actually see these beautiful children home safe and in the care of their new families. The stories of how the adoption processes went were all different and unique. One amazing family had only been home for 1 1/2 weeks. I was so amazed that they were willing to attend. They had originally requested two children and came home with three. Wow, what amazing parents these girls have. The babies of course stole my heart and Daddy-o was more than taken back. The thing I noticed about all of these sweet hearts was their personalities. They were all so happy and extremely loving. What a blessing. We will keep you updated, their might be a chance for a referral this coming week. We will let you know! xoxo

......It's looking like September........

2007-06-18T09:59:00.000-06:00

It seems like we might be waiting for our referral now until sometime in September. We really thought we would hear something this past week but we didn't get the call. We are confident that this is for a reason but yet still disappointed at the same time. It's hard when you are so ready to have your new babies added to your family. The unknown sometimes brings about weary feelings.

We decided to have a family chat and plan some fun things for the kids this summer. I am amazed how fast time passes if you don't put these things on the calendar. It was fun to get their input and suggestions as to what they thought was "fun".

We will continue to pray and hope for our miracle phone call. xoxo.

Summer deadline approaching!

2007-06-06T09:10:00.000-06:00

Well, here's the update. Our agency will keep giving referrals up to and through June 15th. Hopefully this will be good luck, it's Nana's birthday. Anyway the Ethiopian government closes for several weeks during the late summer and early fall. They have put this policy in place so that parents who have a referral aren't waiting for 10+ weeks to travel. If we don't get a referral by the 15th they will start up again around September 18th or so. We know that whatever is meant to be for us is exactly what will happen. In a way if we don't get that call we won't be waiting and hoping all summer. We will be anxiously awaiting the next 9 days to see what is going to happen for our family. Thanks to everyone for all the encouragement. xoxox

Excited and anxious siblings!

2007-05-22T20:33:00.000-06:00

These are the loves of our lives...

"When love takes you in"........

2007-05-18T13:52:00.000-06:00

I just love a beautiful adoption story/movie. Enjoy......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=demRHgul2Zk

Mother's Day!

2007-05-13T19:06:00.000-06:00

Mother's Day has a different meaning to me this year. As in the past (when I have been expecting) the gift of another child that will soon be part of our family cannot leave your mind or soul. It is a true miracle that I will be a mother to 6 children very soon. Our hope to get a referral soon is what drives us. We are so anxious to know these amazing children and welcome them into our home.
Many hugs, kisses and thoughtful gifts were prepared for me today and I feel so blessed and so lucky to be a Mother.
Below is a very special adoption story that was posted in the New York Times today. I really enjoyed it and thought you might too!
http://tinyurl.com/2bcqpg
Happy Mother's Day to my Mom and Sister and to all of my dear friends!