Our Journey to Ethiopia

Interesting Article

2011-12-08T19:23:00.002-07:00

An article bringing awareness to some of the difficulties being encountered in the International Adoption world.

Agree to This...

2011-11-12T04:12:00.000-07:00

Leann wants to be happy. Can you help her?

Celebrating Week 2

2011-11-11T07:43:00.003-07:00

There are lots of great ways to share with your child and celebrate the significance of adoption. These are just a few that I came up with:

Read poems and books that tell the story of adoption. There are many great children's books out there. One of M's favorites is Yafi's Family. I do encourage you to preview any literature prior to sharing with your child, just to ensure that it is presenting adoption in an appropriate manner.

Consider writing a note to those that were involved in your family's adoption process. Share with them the joys and successes you are experiencing and thank them for the role they played.

What Adoption Means

2011-11-10T04:22:00.000-07:00

David Would Love a Hug!

2011-11-09T04:10:00.000-07:00

Who could resist loving on this little guy? Help David find a home filled with lots of hugs!

You Don't Have to be Perfect

2011-11-08T04:08:00.001-07:00

Hallie Needs a Family!

2011-11-07T09:49:00.001-07:00

You could help a child like Hallie find a family.....

Orphan Sunday

2011-11-06T09:46:00.001-07:00

Recognizing and Sharing During National Adoption Month

2011-11-05T09:08:00.001-06:00

Melissa Hovey wrote an article regarding National Adoption Month.

She shares some of her personal experiences with adoption. Check out the story here.

Celebrating Week 1

2011-11-04T09:51:00.002-06:00

There are lots of great ways to share with your child and celebrate the significance of adoption. These are just a few that I came up with:

Regardless of whether or not your child is adopted, share their story of when they first joined your family. You can do this orally, or by creating a book complete with photos. M. has his own little book and loves to read through it.

Remember that this is a time to be grateful and advocate for others. Consider as a family how you might get the word out and encourage others to consider the blessing of adoption.

Find Darren a Home

2011-11-03T09:48:00.000-06:00

You could help a child like Darren find a home....

The Numbers Don't Add Up

2011-11-02T09:51:00.000-06:00

Nearly 460,000 children are in U.S. foster care.

Approximately 114,000 children in U.S. foster care are waiting to be adopted.

Annually, nearly 30,000 children age out of U.S. foster care.

There are close to 163 million orphans and waiting children worldwide.

It all begins with ONE:

ONE prayer

ONE foster family.

ONE adoptive family.

ONE child at a time.

National Adoption Month

2011-11-01T02:00:00.001-06:00

Today marks the beginning of National Adoption Month.

I encourage you to take this month to consider daily, whether through thought or prayer, what your role is when it comes to providing for the needs of the many children found in foster care and waiting for adoption. Not only because this is a topic near and dear to my heart, but because it can make such a difference in the life of a child.

History of National Adoption Month:

Sixteen years ago President Clinton proclaimed November as National Adoption Month but its origins go back further than that back thirty five years for that matter. Back to then governor of Massachusetts, Michael Dukakis who announced an Adoption Week for his state. Soon thereafter the even went national with Gerald Ford.

Adoption advocates realized, however, that more time is needed to raise awareness about the need for adoption and to hold adoption related events. So, in 1995, President Clinton made the event a month long observance.

Last year President Obama started off National Adoption Month with a proclamation: "Giving a child a strong foundation; a home, a family to love, and a safe place to grow is one of life's greatest and most generous gifts. Through adoption, both domestic and international, Americans from across our country have provided secure environments for children who need them, and these families have benefited from the joy an adopted child can bring. Thanks to their nurturing and care, more young people have been able to realize their potential and lead full, happy lives."

That statement about giving young people the ability "to realize their potential and lead full, happy lives" seems especially cogent after the recent death of Apple founder Steve Jobs. Most of the articles I read memorializing this man who changed the way the world experienced computers, listened to music, made and enjoyed movies, and realized the purpose of their phones, mention adoption only in passing. As an adoptive mother, I have asked myself whether Jobs would have achieved what he did, had the vision, confidence, and work ethic without the environment his adoptive parents provided during his formative years.

The iconic image of an apple with the bite out of it is such an apt metaphor for how Steve Jobs approached his life. I believe what the pundits have said about Jobs being remembered alongside the likes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

The theme for National Adoption Month for 2011 is "Build Capacity to Make Lasting Change". No doubt that adoption made a lasting change on Steve Jobs life, as well as the rest of the world. And so, we should all ask ourselves how we can facilitate adoption so all kids can realize their potential.

(History was found here)

Ugh.

2011-10-20T07:34:00.000-06:00

My heart is heavy.

I am not doing well with this whole waiting - wait longer - wait even longer thing.

Especially when I continue to hear and read about the famine in East Africa.

Early this week I was driving from one school to the next for work and on the radio a gentleman said, "Imagine having a child and not even naming it because you don't know if it will live beyond six weeks."

Ugh.

I can't take that right now. So I turned the radio off and just started crying. Crying and pleading that this desire to grow our family in this way will either go away, or that I will gain the strength needed to wait.

I just hate feeling helpless. I can't stop the famine. I can't do anything to speed up this adoption process.

Ugh.

I look at M., hug him a little tighter and PRAY that he doesn't talk about wanting a brother or sister. But then right as we are getting him ready for bed he asks me if we can pretend there is a baby in my belly and that it will be coming soon, because he really needs a baby.

Ugh.

I struggle to be around other families. Other women who are pregnant.

I struggle to read about families bringing their children home.

I struggle to think that this is going to work out, that the country will remain open, that the timing will be perfect, that the wait will only feel like a few short moments once we are finally home with our child.

I am struggling.....

Ugh.

Celebrating Two Years with Tree Hugging

2011-09-26T07:23:00.000-06:00

Yesterday marked the two year anniversary since we brought M. home.

Two years. Two years! Time has flown by!

In addition to the many special stories and memories that were shared again this week, we headed out to a local nursery on Friday and bought an aspen tree.

I have always had this little idea/dream to plant a tree for each one of our children when they were born. Obviously, our children will be coming into our families at very different times and ways, so that might not work. But, two years is just as joyous of an occasion to put this idea into motion.

M. was filled with excitement about "his tree" and as soon as we set it on the ground, he started doing a little dance to celebrate. He was also sure it give it lots of hugs so it would grow big and strong like him. And because he is who he is, he was also sure to yell at anyone within walking distance that this was his tree and "No one can take it - even if you want it!" Dinner was even interrupted a few times as we "checked" on the tree to make sure it was doing okay.

So here is to M. May you grow big and strong. May you become deeply rooted and receive all the nourishing that you need. Love you little man!

Two Years Ago Today

2011-09-18T22:06:00.001-06:00

Two years ago today we met M. for the first time.

(September 18, 2011 - Two years after first meeting M.)

We spent some time remembering those special moments today.

As we reread our journal entries from that day (feel free to read our entries from last year as we spend this week remembering our time in Ethiopia), our hearts are filled with emotions and gratitude for the past two years. It hasn't always been easy and we haven't always had all the answers, but those first moments of seeing M. are still so clear in our minds and we are so thankful that he is our son.

There are many moments over the past two years where I felt that I have no patience left in me, no tolerance left for the energy and friendliness, no freaking idea how I am suppose to raise this beautiful boy in a way that won't destroy him and mess him up....

But, somehow in those moments, I gain glimpses of the beauty of having this little boy as my son. I gain glimpses of the many, many lessons that are being thrown at me to learn through his heart. When he cuddles up next to me, calls me his princess, and creates rules that involve hugs my heart swells knowing that he is absolutely perfect for me - even in the most challenging moments.

Ugh.

2011-09-06T12:32:00.001-06:00

We've had some interesting conversations these past few days with the little man about his race.

Comments have been made at school and long story short, it is impacting his heart and how he views himself.

My heart breaks for him and my eyes well up with tears even as I write this. I want nothing more than for my sweet boy to feel like he belongs and is beautiful. I want him to be confident in who God created him to be and never think that he falls short or is the wrong color.

So this is what is keeping me up at night. This is what I am now currently trying to teach myself all about.

"Individuals of any race or culture do not outgrow the longing to be connected - to have a sense of belonging, to be with others who are "just like me," and to know they are a part of a broader community." (Excerpt from Dim Sum, Bagels, and Grits)

You just forget how privileged you are to be white until something like this smacks you in the face.

An Update!

2011-08-22T20:34:00.001-06:00

Just received an e-mail that our dossier has been received in Ethiopia.

We are one step closer to meeting our newest family member!!!!!

Now we just have to keep waiting for a referral. But don't worry it has only been one month and 7 days - we still have a ways to go.

Comments

2011-08-14T20:31:00.000-06:00

Going through the process of adoption can be a journey that allows you to have some interesting interactions with a lot of people. I don't know if this happens with other parents, but we get some very personal questions asked of us by complete strangers. We also hear a lot of people's opinions about what we are doing.

We currently have some friends of ours navigating through a very difficult decision and as I have spent time listening to their struggles and trying to encourage them, I am dumbfounded by the liberty some people feel they can take in telling them what should or shouldn't be done.

I found a blog post here that gives a glimpse into some of the things people feel they need to say to families. Definitely hard to believe - but it makes me so thankful for the times when people are sensitive and caring.

Here are some things that people have said to us:

Us - "We're adopting from Ethiopia!"

Person - "Are you going to get a child that is white or will they not let you have that choice?"

Another Person - "Is it going to be white?"

Person - "Are you babysitting?"

Me - "No, this is my son."

Person - "Oh, is your husband an athlete at the University?"

Person after finding out M. is adopted - "Well thank goodness you were able to get him out of that horrible situation and place."

Person - "So did you adopt because you can't have any real kids?" (As if M. is just a toy or pretend child?!)

After introducing M.

Person -"So with a weird name like that, where did he come from?"

Please Watch.

2011-08-11T21:12:00.001-06:00

If you are not aware of the famine currently taking place in the Horn of Africa - please educate yourself and take action. This is not something that we should sit by and watch happen. If you are unsure of what to do, ask...... so much can be done and needs to be done.

Searching

2011-08-01T08:57:00.002-06:00

I have found myself looking at photos of Ethiopia and searching for people who have any resemblance to our little man.

I have found myself looking at photos of Ethiopia and searching for our children.

I have found myself looking and searching a lot lately....

Done!

2011-07-15T09:00:00.001-06:00

We sent off our dossier today!!!

It has been an incredibly long journey - much longer than I thought it would be the second time around. This has made this process a much more frustrating one than the first. Ugh.

So now all we can do is wait and hope that the days and months pass quickly until we lay eyes on our child for the first time and then get to wrap our arms around them.

Trying Not to Panic

2011-03-11T15:56:00.004-07:00

I am trying not to panic.

I am trying to remind myself that this process,

this journey of adoption is

and always will be

out of my control.

It's a journey of trusting

Of relying on things happening

EXACTLY

when they are meant to happen.

NOT when I want them to happen.

But, even knowing this

I am trying not to panic.

I am trying not to start speculating all that could be

all that might happen

all that will hurt

take more time

and

keep us from our little one.

I am trying not to second guess our decision

the prayers of our son

the prayers of our hearts.

I am trying...

And it Begins....

2011-01-05T18:32:00.003-07:00

I read an update e-mail from our agency tonight that stated approximate wait times for the current adoptions.

I grew discouraged.

I don't want to wait that long. I don't want to be away from my baby that long. I don't want to wait to hold them, know them, love them.

So as the tears started to swell, I looked at our little man and reminded myself of God's perfect timing to bring him into our lives. How despite the pain of the wait, it was well worth it and that the joy of finally being with him far surpassed the pain of waiting for him.

So tonight I will wait for you.

Advocate

2010-10-24T20:38:00.000-06:00

One Year Ago Today - Part 11

2010-09-24T18:44:00.000-06:00

"Dearest M....

It is hard to remember much of this day because some much of it was spent on airplanes, in airports, and in complete exhaustion. You did fairly well on the flight from Ethiopia - sleeping most of the way in between your Abat and I.

However, once we landed in Washington D.C. you started to have a harder time. I think that you are getting sick - or maybe you are just grieving - or maybe you are wondering what the heck these two crazy white people are doing with you. The Ethiopian culture deals with children so differently from the American culture. I found myself longing to get back to the Ethiopian culture as soon as we stepped onto the plane for Denver. If only people knew that you have been through so much - have been traveling for the last 20 hours - have had your life completely turned upside down.

Hang in there baby..."

*Our lovely friend Melissa has a wonderful way with words - she blessed us with several of her writings these past few days - and I would like to share them with you here...

Eyes wide

yet fading fast.

One long journey

ending

Another just beginning

A father. A mother.

A son.

Arriving.

A family unfolding.

The walls of 519

wait in anticipation.

The year will bring

learning. growing.

crying. laughing.

pooping.

On the floor

In the tub

Even...in the diaper.

Hearing the language

of Mother Ethiopia

"Nai" -- Come

'I want to show you

my world

"Nai" -- Come

'You are mine

I am yours'

"Nai" -- Come

' I love you

and accept you.'

Check out more of her writing here at: Melissa's post

One Year Ago Today - Part 10

2010-09-24T18:43:00.000-06:00

"Dearest M....

Well this is it. Today is our final day in Ethiopia before returning to the states. I feel as if this time has gone by so quickly. It saddens me some to know that it will be a while before we return here.

We didn't do too much today - except for all of the packing. We ate a wonderful breakfast again - you really like the oatmeal and juice. Hopefully I can figure out how to make the juice for you. The oatmeal, your Abat should have down. He is an oatmeal fanatic.

We played a little bit outside - the gate guards are so friendly with all of the children. Honestly, everyone is so wonderful with the children It is such a beautiful thing.

While I was packing, Abat ran some errands. We got your passport and visa. Your pictures are so adorable. In one of them you look like a stocky football player ready to hurt someone.

In the afternoon prior to leaving the hotel, the staff had a coffee ceremony for all of the families. It was a very kind gesture and allowed each family some time to just relax, visit and enjoy our remaining moments in Ethiopia.

As we were driving to the airport, I felt a lot of sadness for our departure, the uncertainty as to when we would return, how much of your culture will be missed because we don't live here. You however, you were happy. Happy to be watching the cars and people pass by. I will be sad to say goodbye to the people we have met along the way - the people that have navigated this week of life changing events with us. I am excited though to continue our journey with you.

I love you M...."

One Year Ago Today - Part 9

2010-09-23T18:42:00.000-06:00

"Dear M....

Today brings yet another big day. This morning we went back to the care center for the farewell party. I didn't know what to think about this. It was so exciting that we were finally with you, but sad that you were leaving and you would most likely not see many - if any - of these people - your friends - again.

They dress the children in traditional attire - you looked so great in your little outfit. They even gave you a sash to wear with green, yellow and red on it. While we were upstairs changing, you were so excited to see the babies. You actually went and patted several on the head and then gave them kisses without any prompting. It was incredibly sweet. We sat near your friends and they were all talking to you so excitedly. You seemed so happy to see them, but so sad as well.

There was a traditional coffee ceremony. During this time Dr. Fikru spoke to the families about the importance of adoption. He shared how they work so hard to make sure that all kids are adopted need homes as a last resort. It is their goal to preserve the family as much as possible. You also peed on me again during this time. You must really enjoy doing that.

This afternoon they took the group out shopping and I stayed behind with you at the hotel. This was my first time alone with you and I was pretty nervous. But after your nap you and I had a good time together. We read books, played A - LOT of peek-a-boo, and watched all of the cars going by on the street. There were many times when I would just look at you and marvel at finally being with you.

Tomorrow we will prepare to return to the states. It will be hard to leave this beautiful country - already we wish we had more time here. Today at one point while playing peek-a-boo, you just stopped and looked out the window for a long time. You watched the cars, buses, people and animals passing by. We couldn't help but wonder what was running through your head -what were you thinking and feeling? We hope that one day you can come back to this beautiful country - your first home - and fall in love with it all over again."

One Year Ago Today - Part 8

2010-09-22T18:41:00.000-06:00

"Dearest M....

Throughout the process of our adoption, I have read lots of things about children having difficulty when waking up. Some stories shared about children waking up and just screaming out of fear and grief. So this morning as I laid in bed watching you, with the sun slipping through the windows and filling the room, I held my breath as I awaited to see how you would wake. When you finally opened your eyes, you looked right at me and smiled a smile so big. After laying there a little while longer you scooted over to me and gave me a kiss. It might my heart swell and brought tears to my eyes.

We spent the morning playing - you are such an observer. You love to look out the window and watch all of the cars and people passing by. Just like the first time I saw you... You also love to hide behind the window sheer and play peek - a - boo. You get so excited to come running out to Abat or I. Usually you are laughing so hard that it makes us laugh too.

We tried to put you down for a nap since we have the Embassy appointment today. You cuddled right up to me and wouldn't let me put you down. Once you finally fell asleep I laid you on the bed and you tucked your arms up underneath your chest and popped yourself up on your knees. So cute!

We waited over two hours for a 10 minute meeting that will allow for you to come home with us. I would have waited twelve hours if needed. I am so happy to bring you home.

Everyday I feel like you grow more and more comfortable with us and your smile comes more easily. I have enjoyed these moments of getting to know you better. I love you little M."

One Year Ago Today - Part 7

2010-09-21T12:13:00.000-06:00

"Dear M...

Last night several people were awaken by the hyenas running through Durame, which is apparently a common reoccurrence. What a different experience of life.... I wonder what noises will awake you when you travel home with us.

I am so anxious to get back to you. I miss you and can't wait to hug you, to kiss you, and to try and convey to you the new depths of love we feel for you after experiencing more of your history and visiting with your birth father.

We returned to Addis exhausted but enjoyed a walk with some of the dear friends we have met here. It is nice to share this journey with each of the families. We returned to the care center and they were giving you a bath - you seemed a little fussy. I started to wonder if you knew that something was going on - if you felt the overwhelming amount of emotions we were feeling. So we tried to play with you - to help you feel safe and calm.

After visiting with the pediatrician we prepared to take you to the hotel with us - to have you stay with us for the first time. This was another experience filled with so many mixed emotions. I was so ecstatic to have you with us, but felt guilty removing you from what you had known, from your nannies, your friends, from the surroundings that have brought you safety and comfort.

Shortly after arriving back at the hotel we sat down for dinner. Abat was holding you in his lap feeding you potato soup when all of a sudden you leaked through your diaper. We had a good laugh about it, joking that you were christening him into parenthood. I have a feeling that you will bring us many moments of joy.

We took you up to our room and Abat began reading you Goodnight Moon. You loved the pages with the kittens and even tried saying "goodnight moon" by yourself. You finally fell asleep on Abat's chest and we couldn't bring ourselves to turn the light off - we just couldn't stop looking at you. Finally - you were with us - we could now hug you and love on you and look at you whenever we wanted! This is the day we have dreamed of for a long time."

One Year Ago Today - Part 6

2010-09-20T12:13:00.000-06:00

"Dear M...

This morning began with us waking early to the mosque shooting off a canon -

or something of the sort - to declare that church was beginning. Even this early in

the morning you can see the streets crowded with men and women dressed in

traditional attire.

Today is a hard day for a few reasons. First it is hard because we will not get to see you today. We enjoy so much seeing your smiling face and hearing you laugh...even more so, holding you in our arms. But today is also hard because we will meet your birth father to talk with him about you. We will travel to Durame, the city near the area where your family is. Durame is about a six hour drive from here. We am sure we will have a lot to tell you about this journey.....

As we traveled south, we began to see the beautiful country of Ethiopia. There are rolling hills covered in lush grasses. There are mountains that are so high they bring us memories of Wyoming. This country is stunning, and even though our eyes were heavy with sleep we kept watching so we wouldn't miss a single part of this trip. Finally, there are people - so many people - walking everywhere - gathering in fields to celebrate the end of Ramadan.

We had a beautiful, emotionally and life changing meeting with your birth father. We will forever treasure this moment with him and will hold dear to our hearts the many things he shared with us. You are so loved M. so loved, and we are so humbled that we get to be a part of this beautiful love felt for you.

After the meeting we traveled to the first care center where you stayed. We kept thinking of you and how you must have felt first coming here. We also felt extreme gratitude because this is the place where you began to grow stronger and healthier. But there are so many children. Oh the children.....

There is a little boy named Simeon and he was only 10 months old. He was just the size of a newborn infant, but he had a smile so big. As he grasped your mommy's hand we poured our prayers over him for strength and a family that can be blessed by that beautiful smile.

While touring the care center, we visited with a gentleman who knew you well. He said that he remembered you - and liking you because you were so handsome and dynamic. He also thought that you were so smart because you were so strong in spirit and so active. Sister Abebech Abura also shared with us her memories of you. She said that you arrived so ill and fragile, so so fragile. But it didn't take you long to start growing stronger. With your strength came your activity and she felt that you slowly grew happy again.

Also of this makes us long to get back to you....."

One Year Ago Today - Part 5

2010-09-19T20:03:00.001-06:00

"Dear M...

This morning we went to the Ethiopian National Museum and spent some time driving around the city. It was all very interesting to see and important, but all I could think of was seeing you again.

We finally got to the care center after lunch and we were able to play and spend time with you. It made me so happy to be with you again. We played with you for three hours and it was great. You were so happy, smiling and giggling so much.

There was a point where you ran to my arms from across the room. It made me so happy to have you run to me like that. It made me feel like you were getting more comfortable with me. I pray to God who is merciful that you grow to be a happy boy. I want you to always be happy and confident in yourself."

Love,

Abat

"Dearest Mihretu,

It was very hard to leave you last night. As we spend more time with you, you become more and more comfortable with us and we with you. I just love being with you. It is so fun to watch you play. You love to try and throw things up in the air and you especially love to kick balls around the play room. Everyone keeps telling us how beautiful you are and how much they love your eyes and smile. You are a beautiful boy!

After visiting this museum this morning we spent time driving around the city. There is so much traffic and even more people out walking - walking everywhere they need to go. I love to walk, but I wonder if I would love it as much if it was my only means of transportation. While driving through the city my lungs would start to burn from all of the pollution, caused not only by cars, but by fires burning trash and keeping people warm.

It was hard to see such poverty, especially when it would be children on the streets begging. There were so many and I am just grateful you didn't have to be put in that position. However, it breaks my hear and I pray over and over for God's mercy on each child. Even more so, I long for the day when poverty is banished from these lands.

Later this afternoon we returned to the care center to play some more with you. We spent a good part of the afternoon playing with bubbles, which you and your friends absolutely loved. You would roll a ball back and forth with us, run around and kick the ball (which is impressive considering you just started walking a month ago), put a teddy on top of your head and act like you didn't know where it was.

You are a silly boy and you love to make other people laugh, which is not a difficult task for you to complete. You are making your Abat and I smile all the time. Oh, how we love you so much!"

One Year Ago Today - Part 4

2010-09-18T22:36:00.002-06:00

One year ago today we met our son. It is so hard to believe how much he has grown and changed over this past year.

There were so many emotions felt and hardly any were contained. This has remained true not only on that first day of meeting him, but throughout our year of parenting.

I don't remember a lot of the specifics of that day and what we did that morning before walking through those doors to hear the squeals, giggles, and cries of children, but I do remember that van ride feeling like an eternity. I knew that soon my life would be changed by this little man and I couldn't wait to finally hold him. The van was full of fellow adoptive parents and our emotions ranged from tears, giddiness and waves of nauseousness. We all longed to hold our babies.

Micah and I loved those first moments with our son and seeing one another as parents. These are moments that will forever be cherished. There were many tears shed that day - tears of joy, tears of reality, tears of sadness - and those tears became the prayers of our hearts as words were difficult to find.

"Dearest M...

Today is the day that we will meet you for the first time! Soon we will be able to hold you, love on you and try to convey to you how much our hearts have swelled for you over the last three months.

I awoke this morning around 3:30 to the beginning sounds of traffic, the call to worship, dogs barking and roosters crowing. I tried to go back to sleep, but of course had a hard time because there was so much anticipation surrounding our day. Your Abat awoke around 6:30 and we prepared for breakfast. We were looking out the windows taking in the streets below when we noticed the care center next door had children on the balcony. Our hearts leaped at the hope of sneaking a glimpse of you, but they were just sunning the babies. Once downstairs we meet several other couples that are all preparing to meet their little one today too.

Before meeting you we traveled to the main office to meet with Dr. Fikru, the social workers, and various other staff members that work for Holt. We are so impressed with this organization and all they are doing to help the children and families of Ethiopia. It brings comfort knowing you are well cared for.

After receiving a tour of the head office, we loaded up in the van to return to the care center to finally meet our children. To finally meet you. My heart more than ever was anxious - but ready. It was hard to contain my emotions. This was the moment I had been dreaming about for many, many months.

They lead us into the care center to give us a tour and my heart was pounding as we took each step - questioning if you would be around the next corner or on the other side of the next door. Would I recognize you? Would you recognize us?

I entered the infant room first and there were so many tiny, tiny babies. Then we walked down to the second floor and a bunch of toddlers were out in the common area. Many of them were just sitting, and several were gathered around the nannies begging to be picked up. But one boy, one little boy was running towards the windows and I knew without seeing your face that it was you. They ushered you back several times, but you kept getting up and running to that window, standing on your tippy toes to peer out at the world around you. I tried to let your Abat know I had seen you, but I could find words. Before I could say anything they ushered you back into the rooms. As I stood there waiting for this moment the door would open and there was a little boy with a smile spread across his face playing peek-a-boo each time the door opened and closed.

Finally, it was our time to meet you and hold you for the first time. The Holt worker running the camera crowded us into the room with the head nurse and you became so scared and shy. You started crying and my heart broke for you. I didn't expect you to come running to us thanking us for adopting you or something. But it was a lot harder to see you crying. I wanted so badly to comfort you and make you feel better, but I knew that I was the stranger and we had yet to establish a trusting relationship.

Thankfully we had some balloons so we took them out to ease the mood. You loved the orange and yellow ones and became very territorial of them. I sat frozen and unsure of what to do, how to interact with you - but your Abat, he was right at your side putting your shoes back on, picking you up when you fell, giving you back the balloon as it floated out of your hands. Before long you were laughing and playing with him, grinning from ear to ear. This felt so wonderful to be observing. I knew that I was very fortunate to have your Abat to enter this journey of parenting with.

Meeting M... for the first time.

Watching M. enjoy injera for lunch.

After finishing our orientation and lunch we came back to visit the children once more. You had been taken to the hospital for an x-ray so we weren't able to play with you right away. Once you had finished bathing they brought you out to us. The nanny handed you to me and instantly you started crying. You were still so unsure and scared. I tried to calm you but had little success so your Abat picked you up from my arms and you immediately stopped crying. That was a little bit of a difficult moment for me to swallow as a mother. I know time will make things better and you will learn to trust me. Life is changing little one, but we will be right there with you."

Dear M..

It has been a long ride to get to this point, but here it is. In Ethiopia, Africa! The only thing I can think of doing right now is praying. I want to pray for you. I want to pray that you grow strong. You are a small little boy right now and I pray that you grow strong in stature and in mind. I pray that you grow into a confident man who loves the Lord and can make an impact on the world for the better. M...I love you. I love you and I pray to God who is merciful - who gave you to us - that you grow strong.

Love,

Abat

One Year Ago Today - Part 3

2010-09-17T15:38:00.001-06:00

"Dearest M....

I am not sure when it became the 17th, but we are currently in transit to Ethiopia! The plane is packed with many families and children - each child makes me think of you. As we near Ethiopia we grow more and more excited and anxious. The butterflies are growing stronger by the moment and I wish I could find more appropriate words to describe the feelings I am experiencing. It is so surreal......

We have arrived in Ethiopia! Late, but we arrived. We navigated our way through obtaining a visa, exchanging money and claiming our luggage. There was a sea of people that we had to push through to find the driver from Holt. You could tell that he was tired and it had been a long day for him....I felt bad to have kept him waiting for so long. Because it was dark it was hard to see too much on the way to the hotel so we will wait until tomorrow to discover this city. As we pulled up to the hotel and they were honking to be let in the gate I looked to my right only to discover that the care center is right next door to the hotel! I can't believe we are so close to you. It will be hard to wait, but tonight we will sleep closer to you than we ever have before. You are so close to use, so close, and we can't wait to hold you! Sweet dreams baby boy."

One Year Ago Today - Part 2

2010-09-16T19:18:00.001-06:00

"Dearest M.....

The day we have been anxiously awaiting has arrived. As I write I am sitting in the Washington D.C. airport. We have tried to occupy our minds with several walks around the airport, finding a meal, and calling our families one last time before leaving the country to say goodbye. They are all excited to meet you and love on you in person. I just can't believe the time is here. I have been sitting here staring at the gate and plane for a long time dreaming about the coming days. Oh, I can't wait to hold you!

Our departure day began with our wonderful friend Chelsea making us a breakfast of scrambled eggs, sweet potato fries and Ethiopian coffee. We talked of all that will change and remain once you become a physical part of our lives. Chelsea also prayed sweet prayers over us before leaving us at the Denver airport. We have been so blessed with so many wonderful friends and family members. It brings us encouragement and peace knowing that we are blanketed in prayer and covered by the blessing and protection of God.

We checked our luggage - 4 suitcases and 3 carry-ons - and before going through security we stopped to write a quick letter to your Uncle Ben. I wish that there was some way to communication all that we are experiencing with him on a more regular basis, but until circumstances change, letter writing will have to do. I long for the day when you can spend time with him and he can love on you the ways an uncle should - teaching you all the things that an uncle should teach.

Once we boarded the plane in Denver we took the time to open a gift given to us. Micah and I both had letters written for us individually and sealed in an envelope from some wonderful friends. This lovely couple has been praying for you and our family and took the time to write us a letter encouraging us in our new roles as mother and father. The letters were beautiful and provided truth for us to dwell on. I know without a doubt that I will be coming back to this letter in the days, months and years ahead.

Your Abat and I are so very excited M..... I wish that I had more eloquent words to use to describe all that we are feeling. It is so hard not to tell everyone that the reason we are traveling is to go and meet our beautiful son for the first time. This excitement is overwhelming and we feel as if we were two little kids awaiting Christmas morning. We love you so and soon, so very soon we will be there!"

One Year Ago Today

2010-09-15T17:21:00.002-06:00

One year ago today we were rushing to finish things up to work and make it to the Mortgage Source to close on the purchase of our first home.

Purchasing your first home is a BIG deal, a very BIG deal.

But with where we were heading the next day, we could have cared less.

Our appointment began at four and seemed to drag on forever. All the while we signed paper after paper, looking at each other with excitement and a lot of restlessness to finish things up so we could get home and finish packing.

The ladies at the Mortgage Source mistook our excitement and restlessness for the purchasing of our new home. Little did they know.....

With the purchase of our first home finalized, we headed home and began the frenzy of packing.

We couldn't eat, finish a sentence, or sit in silence before we erupted with emotion.

Thankfully we have beautiful friends who took us with all of our emotion, wrapped their arms around us, and helped us to sense some peace and calmness for the journey we were about to embark on.

Our brand new basement tenants -Mike and Melissa - (who had been living there for two years, but were just inherited with the purchase of our home) made us a beautiful journal with the map of Ethiopia and Africa. Inside they wrote,

"Made to document your journey to Ethiopia and parenthood, and any other changes that may present themselves. We look forward to your return."

So after all the bags were packed we got in the car and drove to Fort Collins to stay with our good friend Chelsea. Even after a glass of wine and great conversation with an old friend, my mind remained restless and anxious in anticipation for what the days would bring.

So I took up the journal recently gifted to us and wrote. I wrote a letter to my son, pouring out the endless thoughts and emotions I was experiencing. Below are some of those thoughts.

"Dearest M...

Today we woke up to attend our last day of work before departing for Ethiopia to meet you, our son, for the first time. I have been waking up with butterflies in my stomach for the excitement and anticipation I feel to see you for the first time. To hold you for the first time. To love on you for the first time.

I wonder if you will recognize us. If you will know how excited we are to have you as our son. If you will know that we love you so much. I hope that you know. I hope that you ALWAYS know.

We left school to sign the closing papers on the house. It was very important for your Abat to provide a home for you. He worked very hard to finalize things so that the house we brought you home to would really be ours, not someone else's home. All through the signing our thoughts were on coming to you.

As soon as we finished closing we returned home to finalize packing. A few people stopped by to pray with us and send us off with a blessing. We also ran to purchase a gift for your birth father and a few more things for the orphanage.

We were so tired from today's events that we practically fell into bed, but soon the sun will rise again and bring us the day that we leave for you. Soon baby soon we will wrap our arms around you and we can't wait!"

International Justice Day

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

Re-Adoption Day!

2010-06-10T21:21:00.002-06:00

A year after getting the referral phone call we were stepping into the Judge's chambers to finalize the adoption in the State of Wyoming. Woo Hoo!

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T22:00:00.002-06:00

This was my first Mother's Day and it was more than I could have ever imagined or hoped for. It was a beautiful day filled with many moments that brought laughter, tears, and overwhelming emotions as I reflected on the reasons why I am a mother today. Although I greatly appreciate the recognition and honor, it has been completely humbling to reflect on the privilege and opportunity to raise this little man, knowing he was once so dearly loved by a very beautiful woman who would have loved to celebrated this day with him.

A Time of Sharing

2010-03-06T21:05:00.001-07:00

We gathered with friends today to share a little about our journey to Ethiopia and what our time has been like in the past six months of being home with the little man.

I have to be honest, I was really looking forward to this day for a long time.

But sitting there - I had so many thoughts and emotions running through my head.

Have we done the right things?

Is he adjusting as well as he should be?

How do we convey to people all that we have experienced and feel?

Do we share the ups and downs...or just the ups so they aren't turned off to adoption?

Have we advocated enough for adoption and the millions of orphans waiting to be heard?

What gives me the privilege to be celebrated, when others have sacrificed and continue to struggle?

It is still incredibly difficult for me to put to words all that was felt and experienced throughout this journey, but especially while in Ethiopia. Thankfully people are very understanding and even in the absence of my words, they still loved on my family beautifully.

Melkam Ganna

2010-01-07T21:00:00.004-07:00

We had a great day celebrating this Ethiopian holiday.

We started the morning by decorating sugar cookies with the Ethiopian flag and ended by celebrating and dancing with some good friends.

Oh, and apparently the little man's smile now looks as if he is going to take a big bite out of something.....

I Need Africa

2009-12-26T13:49:00.001-07:00

For several months now I have been struggling with how to convey all that we experienced while in Ethiopia. This was not our first time traveling abroad or even to a country overwhelmed with poverty and injustice. Our hearts have yearned to share all that we saw, both in pain and in joy, but the words are hard to find...very hard to find... to paint you the wonderful picture of all that we experienced.

And it is not just the difficulty of finding the right words. We, I especially, can hardly let our minds begin to replay all that we journeyed through while in Ethiopia without being moved to tears that bring up even more overwhelming emotions.

So we are searching.... for the right words...how to correctly convey our emotional and amazing experience....and how to best advocate for these people that so quickly stole our hearts.

I don't know how we came across this video, but it brought tears to our eyes and we felt that this says so much of what we have been feeling in a much more beautiful way than we ever could.

The video is created by an organization called Mocha Club. I encourage you check out their website.

Aching Heart

2009-12-04T21:29:00.005-07:00

Tonight I was up late working on my final research paper for a class while also trying to move through how awful I felt from being sick with a cup of tea.

I took a quick break from writing my paper and went to check our agency website. Periodically I look at the waiting child list out of curiosity and to put some faces to my prayers.

My heart sank as I stared at the photo of a little boy we had met while in Ethiopia. This particular little boy was in the same room as the little man and within the first minutes of playing with the children had gained a very special place in my heart. And now here he is waiting for a family to give him the loving home that he and his birth parents long for him to have.

My heart aches for him.

This little guy has a beautiful smile and a laugh that shakes his whole belly while filling the room with joy. I smile now just thinking of him laughing.....

I specifically remember asking Micah while in Ethiopia if all of the children in the care center are waiting to travel home - he said yes - and maybe he was right....

This little boy's profile description matches so much of our little man's story.

That is part of what brings an overwhelming sense of sadness up for me.

I think about those first twenty minutes after our referral phone call and questioning whether or not I could raise a toddler. Whether or not it would be what I had been waiting all this time for. Could I handle the challenges? Was this the right child for our family?

I wish I could say that I knew without a doubt, but I didn't - we didn't. We had to pray about it - and calm ourselves down emotionally. But I can tell you now that it was the right child for our family - WITHOUT A DOUBT. As a matter of a fact it is hard to ever imagine why we were questioning.

But as I checked the website tonight - looking at this little boy's photo - my thoughts immediately questioned if this is what would have happened to our little man if we said no. I want so badly to be there to love on the kiddos and hear his laugh again. I want him to know that he will be provided a family - and that there is nothing he has done wrong or has wrong with him that has caused this wait.

It also reminded me that our family can not be done with the fight for orphans around the world. There is still so much more that needs to be done and so many more that need to be made aware.

So tonight, with tears in my eyes and a heart full of sadness I begin to pray for this friend of little M. placing him in the hands of the Father.....

Inspiration from Malawi

2009-11-16T13:28:00.001-07:00

I came across this story and thought it was inspirational.

I would love to see some of our students striving this hard.....

Orphan Sunday

2009-11-08T13:27:00.001-07:00

Today is Orphan Sunday.

A day to defend the fatherless (Isaiah 1:17).

I wish all churches would take the time to acknowledge this day-to fight for this like they spend countless hours fighting for other causes....

We are a people called to defend the fatherless…to care for the child that has no family…to visit orphans in their distress.

Here are just a few ways you can get involved this Orphan Sunday. For more ideas and information check out the website: www.orphansunday.org

• Teach a class on "God's Heart for the Orphan."

• Encourage your pastor to preach on a Biblical theme related to orphans

• Partner with the Faces of the Forgotten Google Earth project to highlight visuals of orphan needs worldwide to your community or church family.

• Host a prayer gathering at your home or church

• Host a "Movie Night" on Friday, Saturday or Sunday at your house with a film including orphan-related themes. Plan questions beforehand to stimulate post-movie discussion.

• Partner with local artists for a concert or other performance that raises funds and/or awareness for orphan issues.

• Show a short video during your Sunday morning service.

• Host a campus gathering or lecture on orphan issues at your college.

• Give up one meal on Sunday; devote the time to praying for orphans and the money saved to help orphans.

Adoption Month

2009-11-01T13:28:00.001-07:00

The month of November is National Adoption Awareness Month. This provides the opportunity for celebration, education and advocating for the many children still awaiting homes.

It seems to coincide appropriately with the month in which we also give thanksgiving for the many wonderful things we have in our lives.

Adoptive Families has created a calendar with ideas to help celebrate on a daily basis. Check it out here.

Happy Adoption Month!

A Journey from Eritrea

2009-10-24T16:04:00.003-06:00

While driving around town to accomplish some errands I heard this story on NPR's All Things Considered. It reminded me of the various situations people are encountering while I remain comfortable in my own shoes partaking in many indulgences along the way, while all the while they are on a quest for hope.

Ethiopian News

2009-10-22T14:21:00.002-06:00

Ethiopian Journey and Aid for 6 Million
Both of these articles appeared in the news today.

Ethiopia continues to be on our minds and in our hearts for so many reasons....

A Little Preview

2009-09-30T14:45:00.000-06:00

Meeting M. in the care center for the first time.

Holding M. for the first time.

Playing with M. the next day at the care center. He was playing peek a boo with the bear.

Just after bath time and manly enough to not mind pink!

Leaving the care center for the first night of staying with mom and dad!

M. christening Micah into parenthood by peeing on him.

Playing in the hotel.

After our visa appointment. We can finally bring him home!

M. exploring a toothbrush for the first time.

First time on an airplane.

First ride in the car seat.

Introducing M. to his new bike at home!

Home at Last

2009-09-26T14:26:00.001-06:00

We are home, oh we are home!

Our trip was an amazing journey and we pray that we will find the words to describe it all. We were moved to tears many, many times and our hearts were overwhelmed with joy and thanksgiving many more times.

There are sooo many beautiful stories to tell, but for now we are all trying to catch up on sleep - and of course enjoy getting to know one another more.

We will try to post pictures and stories soon!

We're Leaving...

2009-09-15T15:39:00.004-06:00

On a jet plane....

TOMORROW!!!!

We can hardly put into words our excitement for this journey to Ethiopia.

We can not wait to meet our son and bring him home.

Thank you all for the support, encouragement, prayers, support, encouragement, .... we could not have made it this far without all of it, so thank you, thank you, thank you!

We will try to post as we travel, but no promises.

Can't wait to return home and share with you pictures of our little guy!

Soon baby soon!

The news

2009-08-03T11:56:00.005-06:00

WE PASSED!!!!

He is officially ours!!!

We feel so thankful and privileged!!!!

T'was

2009-07-30T11:49:00.001-06:00

T'was the night before court date

and all through the house,
all creatures were busy stirring,
EXCEPT for a mouse!
M.'s room was decorated.....
the curtains not yet hung,
as we anxiously awaited to know

if M. is legally our son.
We pray for electricity,
the judge to arrive,
For all necessary papers

in the right pile.
We'll wait and we'll hope,
praying more as it nears.
'Cause baby we love you,
and can't wait till you’re near.

Weighing Heavy

2009-07-29T12:30:00.000-06:00

Our minds are consumed with thoughts regarding our court date, which is quickly approaching.

It is so hard to hand something off completely that you have NO control over.

Daily we are being given opportunity to practice trust and faith for things to work out as they should. Although we can't determine how things will look on the other side, we trust that eventually....eventually we will get there.

We are learning to appreciate this gift of waiting and the privileged opportunity we have in becoming parents.

We just pray all roads lead to Ethiopia.....soon.

What is This Thing....

2009-07-25T08:20:00.003-06:00

Called Court?

We've had a few people ask, so we thought we would share some of the final steps that take us that much closer to our little one.

Once you receive a referral, which we did on June 10th, then you must sign more paperwork informing others that you are willing to accept placement with this particular child. Turning over a nice big check also signifies that you would like to be a parent! :)

These acceptance papers then make the long journey to Ethiopia and land on a desk of some lovely person at Ministry of Women's Affairs (MOWA). This person reviews our life on paper (otherwise know as dossier) and determines whether a recommendation should in fact be given for a placement match. This letter of recommendation is essential for our court date.

So our court date rolls around and hopefully everyone is able to be present (judge, birth parent, etc.). The judge reviews our paper work and determines whether or not things are in place for our family to pass court or not.

We anxiously await to hear news from Ethiopia about the outcome of our court date. If we pass then we wait for a visa appointment to be scheduled at the U.S. Embassy, allowing us to travel and return home with M. If we do not pass, then we wait until another court date can be scheduled and give it another go.

So as you can see, very little of this is actually in our control, which can be difficult to not fret over. We pray continually that there will be electricity, the judge will arrive at court, that necessary people will be there, paperwork in line, etc. etc.

And that my friends, is this thing called court.

New Date

2009-07-22T13:04:00.003-06:00

In addition to our updated information that we received yesterday regarding M. we also received an update on our court date!!!

We are now scheduled for court on the 31st of July.

If all goes according to plan we could still be traveling in September.

Soon baby soon.

Another Picture

2009-07-21T18:19:00.002-06:00

We received another picture of M. today!

He looks so different from his first photo.

His hair is growing, his eyelashes are longer.

He has this HUGE beautiful smile that makes our hearts melt.

This HUGE beautiful smile reveals his little teeth.

His eyes are so alluring.

We can't wait to cover him with kisses and see him smile in person.

Soon baby soon.

A Book for a Baby

2009-07-20T18:19:00.003-06:00

To help M. become acquainted with our home and family we put together a photo book that we will sent to him.

We had fun working on this together and imagining what he will think of the photos we included. We pray that this photo book will somehow convey our excitement and love for a little boyt hat we have yet to meet in person.

The finished product....almost.

We long for the day that we can take our photo together as a family and be together under the same roof.

Safari

2009-07-19T15:30:00.000-06:00

To keep our minds occupied we have been busy decorating M.'s room. It has been a lot of fun and makes us more and more excited to bring him home. We had found the bedding on sale while home in Rapid City, and decided it would be appropriate for a little boy's room. Here are a few before and after photos of the room.

Before: We touched up paint and rearranged for M. to have more of an open area to play!

After! We love it and hope the M. will too!!!

Buried Treasure

2009-07-18T22:49:00.005-06:00

We have been on the hunt for a dresser. We had the option of using several, but Micah has something very specific in mind. Little did we know that specific dresser was sitting in our friend's garage all along. They were more than happy to donate it to the cause and Micah was convinced that this was the most perfect dresser he has ever seen. It wasn't even in our possession for 24 hours before we started making it even more right for M. Now we will have the perfect place to put all his little clothing items!

Micah hard at work.

The finished product.

Call to Action for Haiti

2009-07-14T15:25:00.005-06:00

CALL TO ACTION ~ please forward to friends and family to join this effort:

Urgent Advocacy Needed On Proposed New Haitian Adoption Law ~ July, 2009

SUMMARY:
Haiti is currently operating under an adoption law that was decreed in 1974 by Jean Claude Duvalier. The 1974 adoption law is outdated, has serious limitations that are not in the best interest of children and causes confusion in its application resulting in significant delays in legal processing of adoption cases.

Children in Haiti matched with adoptive families are waiting as long as 4 years to complete their adoption. Other children awaiting adoption will endure this same wait unless a law is passed now.

With the help of UNICEF and others, a new adoption law has been developed for both domestic andintercountry adoption in Haiti. The law clarifies adoption processing protocols and mandates clear government oversight responsibilities which will correct many of the problems with the present adoption system.

Many Haitian children are in desperate need of adoptive families and will benefit from this new law. This includes children who have been waiting in the adoption system (many up to three years) due to confusion and difficulties surrounding the outdated law.

URGENT ACTION NEEDED:
The Haitian Legislature will convene soon. It is URGENT that the new Haitian Adoption Law be included for approval in the agenda for the upcoming session.

Contact your Congressional Representatives [click here for direct link and letter to your Representative] and urge their strong support of the new proposed adoption law in Haiti. Please ask them to contact the Haitian authorities. Please share this Call To Action with friends and family to join this effort:

Going Green

2009-07-13T19:37:00.001-06:00

After another day of teaching summer school, we ran some errands and then returned home to start painting M's room.

We are all about reusing items, so we were grateful to receive cans of paint from our friends who just bought a house. We cleared the room, turned on some music, and started painting.

We couldn't help but feel excitement. Excitement for the day we can bring him home, excitement for the memories that will take place, excitement to see our little guy playing in his room......

We long to hear his laughter bouncing off these walls.

Soon baby soon.

I'm Bringing Home a...

2009-07-12T19:31:00.005-06:00

This weekend we had a garage sale to help raise some more money for the adoption. We finished summer school Thursday afternoon and came home to get started on sorting items for the sale. We received donations from friends and family, allowing us to sell more than just our two boxes of unwanted items. We worked until 11:00 Thursday evening with the help of some friends to sort, sort, and sort some more. Friday morning we awoke early and started setting up. We had only been outside for 20 minutes when a mischievous group of older men showed up. They were more than ready to pay us a quarter for everything we had available for sale. They were even willing to buy our items in the garage that were NOT for sale! We were also able to share with several people about adoption, our personal journey, and get to know some of our neighbors better.

All in all we had a great turn out on Friday and Saturday. Our combined total of earnings will help to pay for half of an airline ticket! We could not have done this without our many friends who donated items, baked goods, their time, and much needed support. We are so grateful for them and very humbled to have received so much support for our personal cause.

We can't wait to share these beautiful stories with M. - sharing with him the involvement of a community to bring him home.

The beginnings of sorting on Thursday.

The ending of sorting on Thursday.

Our yard converted for the selling of stuff.

Micah and friends hanging out.

Peter sporting a suit coat.

Micah chatting with Koren, Lisa, and Nate while manning the goodies/money table.

Micah with a picture of M.

Already!?!

2009-07-08T22:29:00.004-06:00

We received this e-mail yesterday:

Congratulations, your court date in Ethiopia has been scheduled for July 15, 2009!

There is a possibility that if we pass court on the 15th that we will be traveling in September.

WOW!

We can't wait to be together as a family and loving on M. Our hearts long to hold this little man and whisper prayers in his ears.

Are You Sure?

2009-06-22T14:27:00.000-06:00

I returned home from my trip to Honduras...... and it still is hard to believe that we have a son!!! Let me just sit here for a moment and let that sink in.....

A SON!!!!

Oh my goodness I am so excited!

We will have many stories to share with M. when he arrives in our arms.

It still makes me smile when I get to say I have a son or when people ask me if I have any children... I do, I DO, I DO!!!! I HAVE A SON!

Many things were running through my head while on my trip--it was overwhelming to process everything and to not be able to ask all of the questions I had and get immediate answers. It was hard to not just sit and stare at his picture, dreaming up ideas about who he is, what his personality is like, how he will feel about us. But I am trusting that this little boy will be joining our family for a reason. Whatever that reason is, we will deal with things as they come and enjoy each moment before it passes too quickly.

I met two women on my trip that have also adopted and they both provided me some truths about the situation we are entering into as a family. These truths provided me something to hold onto and find peace in, and for that I am extremely grateful towards them.

We feel so fortunate and humbled that we have the opportunity to be M.'s parent's. We pray that this little boy will know the depths of our love without a doubt.

Soon baby soon, I will hold you in my arms!

It's a......

2009-06-10T14:03:00.005-06:00

BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WOO HOO!!!!!!

Today we received the phone call that we have long been waiting for!!! It definitely came at an unexpected time. We awoke today with plans to finish some spring/summer cleaning and get SaraJane packed for her trip to Honduras.

At about 4:30pm the music was blaring, SaraJane was making piles of things that needed to be packed in the living room, in addition to dusting and vacuuming, and Micah literally had his head in the oven scrubbing it clean. Micah's phone rang and he muttered some frustration with it being another long distance number that probably just wanted to sell him something. BUT, it wasn't!!!! It was a gal from our agency and she wanted to inform us that they have a little boy waiting for us in Ethiopia if we would be willing to consider. (We tear up even as we write this!)

He is older than the original age span that we requested (o-2 years), but has only been in the orphanage since April. His parents will forever be our heros and we are extremely humbled by their love for their child. We will have to update our home study and immigration papers in order to finalize things since he is over the age of 2. We are praying that all of this happens without much complication.

As soon as Micah got off the phone we anxiously awaited the e-mail with M.'s information and picture. He melts our hearts. It is overwhelming to sit looking at a photo of a child on the other side of the world, knowing that he could be the child we have spent hours dreaming about and longing for. We hope to share pictures as soon as we pass court and he is officially ours!

We are amazed at God's timing, which is what we will trust as Ethiopia nears court closure in August. It is so difficult to determine if anything will happen prior to closure. We were told to expect the possibility of traveling at the latest in mid-winter. It will be extremely difficult to be away from our son for such a long period of time, but we will wait and trust that all will work out the way it should.

Until then, we will continue to stare at M.'s picture and get lost in his big beautiful eyes.

Soon baby soon.

Three

2009-05-24T14:40:00.001-06:00

Today marks the three month mark since we have submitted our dossier and have been awaiting our referral.

Three months that we have dreamed of the child who we will one day

hold in our arms,

share bedtime stories with,

fill our camera with photos of,

remind us of the simple joys and discoveries in life,

and

fill our rooms with their sweet sound of laughter.

Positive Talk

2009-05-16T14:05:00.002-06:00

The way we talk—and the words we choose—say a lot about what we think and value. When we use positive adoption language, we say that adoption is a way to build a family just as birth is. Both are important, but one is not more important than the other.

Choose the following positive adoption language instead of the negative talk that helps perpetuate the myth that adoption is second best. By using positive adoption language, you’ll reflect the true nature of adoption, free of innuendo.

Positive Language	Negative Language
Birthparent	Real Parent
Biological parent	Natural parent
Birth child	Own child
My child	Adopted child; Own child
Born to unmarried parents	Illegitimate
Terminate parental rights	Give up
Make an adoption plan	Give away
To parent	To keep
Waiting child	Adoptable child; available child
Biological or birthfather	Real father
Making contact with	Reunion
Parent	Adoptive parent
Intercountry adoption	Foreign adoption
Adoption triad	Adoption triangle
Permission to sign a release	Disclosure
Search	Track down parents
Child placed for adoption	An unwanted child
Court termination	Child taken away
Child with special needs	Handicapped child
Child from abroad	Foreign child
Was adopted	Is adopted

Words not only convey facts, they also evoke feelings. When a TV movie talks about a "custody battle" between "real parents" and "other parents," society gets the wrong impression that only birthparents are real parents and that adoptive parents aren’t real parents. Members of society may also wrongly conclude that all adoptions are "battles."

Positive adoption language can stop the spread of misconceptions such as these. By using positive adoption language, we educate others about adoption. We choose emotionally "correct" words over emotionally-laden words. We speak and write in positive adoption language with the hopes of impacting others so that this language will someday become the norm.

Life Books

2009-05-07T13:52:00.001-06:00

I received an e-mail from a great website, Adoption Learning Partners, offering adoption information for parents. They are offering a free course on Life Books for a limited time.

An Adoption Life Book is a record of a foster/adoptee’s life that uses words, photos, graphics, the child’s artwork, and memorabilia. An Adoption Life Book includes information about the child’s birth parents and reason for leaving them. It always starts at the child’s birth. Plus the fun part of when the adopted child first joined the family.

An Adoption Life Book is more than a life story. It is a unique opportunity for parents to honor every minute of their children’s lives. It is the single most meaningful piece of "paperwork" that any person can complete for an adoptee/foster child providing them a sweet childhood memory.

Moving Up!

2009-05-04T13:44:00.000-06:00

So after we received the update e-mail from our agency we were curious to find out where we were at in line for waiting families.

We sent out an e-mail to our agency and received this reply back:

Dear Herrboldt Family-

You are currently # 13 in line to receive a referral.

We were definitely not expecting to be number 13! We thought that maybe if we were lucky we would be somewhere in the twenties. Wow! How exciting!!! This puts us in a position of most likely receiving our referral sometime this summer. Wow! Wow!! Wow!!!

Tax Credit

2009-05-01T13:22:00.001-06:00

The Adoption Tax Credit which has been beneficial to thousands of adoptive families is due to expire in December 2010, unless Congress votes to continue it. Many adoptive parents would not have been able to bring their children home without the support of this credit.

If you are an adoptive parent or have any interest in supporting adoption, please get involved by writing a letter, making a phone call, or emailing your congress person to support the Adoption Tax Relief Guarantee Act of 2009, H.R. 213 which will keep the adoption tax credit from being repealed by making it permanent!

Read Articles explaining the benefits of this bill and the need for all of us to support it:

http://www.rainbowkids.com/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=639

http://www.adoptivefamilies.com/pdf/taxcredit.pdf

Read about the bill and track its progress through the legislative process:

http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-213

Email a Congressional Representative:

https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml

Email Your State Senators:

http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

A Word...or Two

2009-04-30T19:25:00.007-06:00

It has been an interesting couple of days regarding adoption.
We have been anxiously awaiting to receive another update from our agency. We hadn't received one since the end of March. Our minds have been occupied with finishing up school work, but there is always the wandering thoughts regarding our adoption.

When will we hear some news?

Will we have everything we need when the time comes?

Will the timing work out for us to spend a lot of time with our child or will we still be working? Are we financially ready?

Can we really do this parenting thing?

Well, this evening as we were preparing dinner we checked our e-mail and there was an update from Holt. We were happy to read that so many families had been matched with children in the months of March and April....so many in fact that their wait list is quickly dwindling!

This may allow for us to be matched with a child sooner than the 6 to 9 months that we were anticipating waiting, which sounds like some great news if you ask us!

We will keep you posted with any new happenings!!!

Two

2009-04-24T20:57:00.002-06:00

That is right! We have made it two months in the process of waiting for a referral. It is so hard to believe that another month has already passed us by. We feel as if just yesterday we were happy to have passed the one month mark! It probably helps that we are entering into a very busy time of year with teaching and finishing things up at school. How wonderful would it be if they all passed by this quickly?

We Are Not Alone!!!

2009-04-18T20:56:00.003-06:00

We had the first adoption support group meeting today and our fear of no one showing up was displaced. We had four families from the community join us!

We spent the hour sharing our hopes for the group and our desire to connect with other families in the community, not only for our sake, but for the sake of our child as well. It is so important to us that our child know other families who have adopted and understand the diversity of families.

We were moved as we listened to the stories of challenge and hope that others are encountering along the way. In the past when asked how the adoption process is going, we have very loosely described where we were at to avoid taking up too much time or to avoid further explanation. With the families that attended the group, we were able to speak candidly about the constant changes taking place, the ongoing waiting and unpredictable time line, and some of the struggles we have emotionally. We were so encouraged and felt we could breath a little deeper and feel a little lighter knowing there are other families going through some of the same challenges and WE ARE NOT ALONE!

We hope that we can continue to get together at least once a month and continue to share with other families........and to get our dose of encouragement that keeps us moving forward.

In the Works

2009-04-11T20:55:00.004-06:00

We have thought long about our desires to be involved with a group while we move through our journey of adoption. We feel that this is such a unique journey that it is so important to connect with others who are in the process or have made it through. These connections help to provide some sense of "normalcy" and give us encouragement to keep moving forward even when we feel that we have taken twenty steps back.
So, despite our lack of knowledge or expertise in this area, we are attempting to start an Adoption support group. We contacted our agency here in Wyoming to see if something already existed. They informed us that in the past it has, but there is nothing currently going on. They are in full support of it and very willing to help in any way. We are encouraged by that and hope that we will be able to connect with some new families in the community through this group.
If you have participated in a support group before and have any thoughts or suggestions for us, please feel free to share with us. If you know anyone that might be interested in joining us, please feel free to pass this information along to them as well!

Safe Arrival

2009-03-31T12:50:00.002-06:00

Just got back from Fort Collins. We drove down this morning because we had a check up appointment at the doctor office. When I got back to work I sat down to check our e-mail and found this:

Good Morning-

Just a note to let you know that your dossier has been received in Ethiopia!

Congratulations, you are one step closer.

Cheers,

~Jenn Dalton~
Program Assistant, Ethiopia

We are so freaking excited!

I Am Because We Are

2009-03-27T20:31:00.003-06:00

I came across this video on YouTube, I Am Because We Are, which discusses a few of the stories found amongst the millions of orphans struggling to survive. It is over an hour in length but definitely worth the watch if you can make the time. The video shares the current stories and struggles of Malawi and the attempts that are being made to alleviate the issues caused by the extreme poverty found within the country. There are some moments within the video that are disturbing and heart wrenching but ultimately provide the reminder that we are playing a part in something that is larger than ourselves, that we are all connected, and that we are all children yearning to be loved by someone.

You can also check out the website to find more ways to get involved.

One

2009-03-24T14:20:00.000-06:00

It has been one month since we official submitted our dossier.

The average wait for a referral is 9 months, so we only have 8 more to go.

But who is counting?

Scanned

2009-03-01T19:08:00.002-07:00

Yesterday we made a trip to Aurora to finalize our I-600 immigration papers. We had to get fingerprinted again, you know in case we turned crazy in the last three months since our previous fingerprinting experience. It actually was an interesting experience because they don't ink your fingers, they just scan them...very high tech! The total experience lasted about 15 minutes, but was worth the two hour drive to take us one step closer!

It's Official.....For Real!

2009-02-24T17:47:00.001-07:00

We just received this e-mail:

Hi Micah and SaraJane-

I just wanted to let you know that we received your certified Home Study and Bank letter and they have been added to your dossier, which is complete and looks good! We will keep you updated about when it is received in Ethiopia.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Cheers,

~Jenn Dalton~
Program Assistant, Ethiopia

Holy crap that feels good!!

So it Begins...

2009-02-10T20:20:00.005-07:00

Well it's done. We checked, double checked and checked again to make sure that we had everything we needed and not a single thing was missing....as far as we know.
After stopping by Joel and Laura's for a little celebration and prayer we headed to FedEx and sent our dossier and I-600A on their way. It was definitely a mixture of emotions, but SaraJane only cried a little bit! So the waiting period begins and we anxiously await the next step, a referral that will provide us information about our child!

The final stack of paper work to be sent in for our dossier.Micah with our receipts and tracking number-Oh my goodness! We are so excited!

Celebrations at Lalibela

2009-02-03T13:04:00.003-07:00

We received an e-mail from a friend today and he gave us the link to an audio slideshow that shares photographs relating to the ceremony held at the Bet Maryam (Church of the Virgin Mary) in Lalibela, Ethiopia. They are celebrating the Orthodox Christmas as mentioned in our blog, Melkm Ganna.
Check out the link and enjoy the photos! Celebrations at Lalibela

Christmas Again

2009-01-20T10:00:00.003-07:00

We received a package from Holt today enclosed with a DVD video. The video is a recording of the children and staff participating in a Christmas celebration at the care center in Addis Ababa. We were amazed at the condition of the care center and how big it looks. Our friend told us that it appears to be one of the nicer orphanages in Addis. We counted about 20 children, and almost as many adults. They had given the children party hats and noise makers, which get a little unbearable after the first five minutes. They continued their celebration with songs, a teaching, and of course cake because no holiday is complete until the dessert is brought out!

The video definitely stirred a yearning within our hearts. To see all of the beautiful children and contemplate the need that each one of them has. The need for a home, health care, for education, for a family, for someone to love and love them. Our hearts ached at the reality of not being able to do more, of not being in a place where we could bring more than one child home.

So we fervently pray for more families to feel lead to advocate and care for the orphans and we anxiously await the day when we will see video of our little one.

Words of Encouragement

2009-01-16T14:43:00.001-07:00

We received an e-mail today from one of Micah's family members. The e-mail was a follow up to a conversation we had with them over Christmas break. We had shared with them some of the struggles we were encountering in our personal life and the discouragement we were feeling surrounding the adoption.
The e-mail we received was such an encouragement because it reminded us that we don't want to go through this process alone, that we want to go through it with our family and friends. It meant so much to us to know that despite the distant in our families, they are willing to continually pray for us and our baby, petitioning on our behalf.
We know that this doesn't properly convey our gratefulness and how impacted we were by the e-mail, but it felt like a breath of fresh air and made the burden we have been feeling a little lighter.

Family Preservation

2009-01-10T09:56:00.000-07:00

We received an update from our agency today. Typically the updates contain information about the number of referrals, any changes that are taking place within the program, and other items relating to the process. Within this update, they provided information about additional humanitarian work that they are hoping to establish within Ethiopia.

Holt works hard to create programs within each country to preserve families. See, they are NOT just about adopting as many little children as possible to as many American families as possible.

In 2008 Holt was able to renovate and re-open a medical clinic. They will be training the medical staff of one doctor and several nurses to provide a wide range of care to children. Even more exciting news, in addition to providing basic medical care, the women within the community will have a safe and clean place to birth children.

In addition to the medical clinic, Holt worked diligently to establish a Family Preservation Program. This program will work with families to provide them assistance in becoming more self-reliant and maintain the birth family. Through this program they have been able to reunite 30 children with their families!

Even though we feel that things have slowed down for us, we have been encouraged by the efforts made on behalf of Holt to continue acting in the BEST interest of the child. This affirms our decision to work with this agency and reminds us that they are not just working for the adoptive family, but for the child's family as well.

Changes

2009-01-09T10:02:00.002-07:00

Here is a little information about what is currently happening in Ethiopia. We received an e-mail today from our friend with the link to this article. We hope that this doesn't affect work supporting orphanages and families too much.

The article discusses how the Ethiopian government is choosing to outlaw work done by independent human rights organizations.

A Valley

2009-01-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

Lately, I feel like I have been going through a rough spot with this adoption. I feel as if everything has come to a screeching halt and it is just one thing after another that continues to slow us down. I feel so discouraged. I am trying to keep a positive outlook, to keep the faith, but that feel so difficult, so out of reach.
My heart aches.

Melkm Ganna!

2008-12-26T12:43:00.003-07:00

As we await bringing a little one into our family, we try to consider more and more what that will look like and how we can incorporate more cultural aspects into our family. We were reading a book that specifically described each of the cultural traditions practiced by different countries surrounding Christmas and of course were very interested in the celebrations found within Ethiopia. Below is a summary of what we found.

In the Ethiopian Coptic church, Ganna, or Christmas, is celebrated on January 7th. The celebration takes place in Ethiopia's ancient rectangular churches carved, over 800 years ago, from solid volcanic rock. Men and boys sit separately from girls and women. The choir sings from outside the circle. The second circle, or holy place, is for the congregation. Holy Communion is served in the innermost circle, the sanctuary. Following a day of fasting, everyone attending the early-morning mass wears white. People receive candles as they enter the church. After lighting the candles everyone walks around the church three times.
Twelve days after Ganna, on January 19, Ethiopians begin the three-day celebration call Timkate, which commemorates the baptism of Christ. the children walk to church services in a procession. They wear the crowns and robes of the church youth groups they belong to. The grown-ups wear the shamma. The priests will now wear their read and white robes and carry embroidered fringed umbrellas.
Christmas food in Ethiopia usually includes injera, a sourdough pancake like bread that can be easily cooked over an open fire. Injera serves as both plate and fork.
Ganna and Timkat are not occasions for giving gifts in Ethiopia. If a child receives any gift at all, it is usually a small gift of clothing. Religious observances, feasting, and games are the focus of the season.
Melkm Ganna, or Good Christmas!

Books for Babies

2008-12-05T14:50:00.005-07:00

As previously mentioned, we are very blessed to have others join us in our journey to bring home a child from Ethiopia.
Our downstairs neighbors and their dear friend Mark set out on a journey of their own to help with some of the financial aspects of our adoption. They have put in many long hours to prep and create the handmade journals that you will see below. Each journal is not only an artistic creation reflecting their abilities, but an act of service to our family as well. Once the journals were created and finished they didn't stop there. They contacted a local gallery here in town and shared with the owner their desire to sell the journals raising money for our adoption. The owner of the gallery graciously offered her business, Keag Gallery, as an avenue to sell the journals and is asking for nothing in return. We are so humbled by the actions of others and continue to search for words to honor their acts of kindness.

Some examples of the handmade journals created by Mark and Mike.

The journals on display in the Keag Gallery.

If you or someone you know are interested in purchasing a journal and contributing to our journey please contact us.

Home Study is Studied!

2008-11-24T13:16:00.003-07:00

For the last three weeks we have been meeting with our caseworker, who has got to be one of the most kind people, to complete our homestudy. She has been very supportive of moving through the process as quickly and efficiently as possible, which we are very grateful for. We had to complete three visits with her. The first visit consisted of her walking through our home, and interviewing us about our decision to adopt and our relationship with one another. The second visit primarily consisted of individual interviews about our childhood and our relationship with parents. Last night was our final visit with her to complete the homestudy! We discussed medical conditions we would be willing to accept, our health history, our employment and spirituality. We were so excited to wrap up that part of the adoption process! Once she has our report written we will review it and then we can begin submitting all of our paperwork for the dossier. We are so anxious to move through each step that we have all of the paperwork gathered and ready to go-we just need to add our homestudy report to it! We were very excited last night so we made a few phone calls and then celebrated by having dinner with some good friends. We continue to pray that the timing will work out and that there will be very few set backs! We can't wait to bring home our baby!

Without You

2008-11-13T20:44:00.002-07:00

I am sitting here listening to a new song of Coldplays and I was reminded of the book I read last year prior to our decision to adopt, There is No Me Without You. This book was definitely difficult to read at times because it provides a lot of information regarding the AIDS crisis and how that affects the children of Ethiopia. The author, Melissa Fay Greene has her own website regarding the book and adoption information in general. If you have time check out the website - and if you have even more time, read the book! Once you read the book you will not be the same!

The First Purchase

2008-11-03T22:26:00.003-07:00

I traveled back to Rapid City to visit family this weekend. My dear friend Laura came with me while Micah and Joel headed up to the mountains. We had a great trip and it was so nice to introduce Laura to our families!

While we were in Rapid, Sharon continued on with her excitement for the baby by making the first purchase! She took us out to Target where she demonstrated how excited one person can really become about the opportunity of a baby entiring the family! I must admit that at times I was overwhelmed with all of the items, the choices..... there is just SO MUCH that a baby can have! I did appreciate her joy and we ended up leaving with a cloth sling and a backpack carrier. One for me and one for Micah.... Did I mention that she was soooooo excited to make these purchases? I tried them on, and I think that they fit okay--it is kind of hard to tell without a baby weighing it down and a sack of potatoes didn't really sit like a baby!
So we now have our first items for the baby. We have been talking a lot about our hopes to keep things simple and not go overboard with the amount of baby "stuff" that can easily be accumulated. We are really trying to determine what it is that is necessary and what is more just a convience. Any feedback? We would love to hear from experienced mothers!

Announcing the News, Part III

2008-10-24T21:56:00.007-06:00

We were so excited to finally tell my parents about the adoption that we couldn't wait to tell them in person! I pondered over and over what I could send them, and how it could be a creative meaningful gift. I had several ideas but when it came down to time and money I chose to do the following:

We picked out some cute photo books from the store, as well as a bib for both my mom and dad. Micah and I, with the help of our friend Laura, took some photos to place in the photo book and I also included a letter to each of them explaining our decision.

When I went to the Post Office on Tuesday to mail the packages, I could barely contain myself! I was jittery and probably smiling like a clown. I almost shouted out with excitement that these packages would inform our family about the baby we want to adopt, but I contained myself!

All week we anticipated when we would hear from my family. Every time my phone rang, my stomach jumped a little bit. Finally on Friday while I was finishing up my lunch I received a phone call from my mom and later that night I received the phone call from my dad. It was so great to hear from both of them and to share the news with them. We shared with them where we are at in the process and answered many questions! I can't wait to visit with my brother next weekend and see how he feels about it! Also, my mom and her friend sent flowers celebrating the occasion. It was really sweet of her. Yippee for the joy that babies bring!

Good Things Come in Two

2008-10-18T20:39:00.005-06:00

Today we were excited to receive news regarding the adoption from Wyoming Children's Society. Micah had a phone call around 7:00 informing us that they had received our 10 page questionnaire and have officially assigned us to our Laramie Case Worker. She wanted to let us know that our case worker would also be out of town for the next week, so it would be some time before we hear from her. We were very excited because again, this feels like it is one step closer. That is how we are viewing a lot of this process; just taking the necessary steps to move us through this journey.

We were also very blessed to receive wonderful news and encouragement from our friends, Mike and Melissa. They had ventured on a walk and while on their walk stopped downtown at a local gallery. The gallery features a lot of Fair Trade/Organic/Recycled products for retail. They visited with the owner about the possibility of selling some of the journals they have been making with their friend Mark. The owner was interested in having them sell the journals at her store. They then shared with us how they have decided to sell the journals for the purpose of providing some financial support for our adoption process. We were again shocked and awed by the generosity of people. They had also shared this information with the owner of the store and she is willing to return all of the money earned from the journals and even post our story alongside the journals at the store. The kindness given has been overwhelming and echoes for many days to come. Words again cannot express our gratitude for this kindness. Thank you for blessing us!

They Like Us!

2008-09-23T22:41:00.005-06:00

I know, it might be hard for some to believe, but on Friday Micah received a phone call from Wyoming Children's Society. They informed us that they had received our application and we were accepted! They are sending us the information needed to complete the background checks and fingerprinting. We were anxious to hear from Holt, so Micah called them and was informed that they had received our application, but were still in the process of reviewing the information. We were told that we would hear from them within a week regarding our acceptance.

Today as Micah was home sick he received a phone call from Holt informing us that we had been accepted and that within the week someone from the Ethiopia program would contact us. I, of course had a long list of questions, but Micah of course was sick, and hadn't asked too many questions so our information was limited. I was anxious to hear from them and considered super gluing the phone to my hip so I wouldn't miss there phone call. That night as I checked e-mail one last time, I noticed an e-mail from an unfamiliar person. When I opened the e-mail I was excited to see that it was from someone working with the Ethiopia program! Wow! That was fast and definitely answered a lot of my questions.

We are very excited to be moving forward and can't wait to get our background checks completed so we can begin our homestudy!

Here We Go!

2008-09-15T21:55:00.002-06:00

After multiple attempts and several hang ups, we were finally able to send out our applications for Wyoming Children's Society and Holt. It was an overwhelming and daunting task, but we made it! We couldn't believe the amount of information that had to be collected and written down to begin this process. The pile of paperwork was quite large and we often double and triple checked everything to make sure that we had it all.

For Wyoming Children's Society, the agency that we will be working with to complete our homestudy, we had to complete and gather:
*The application, which included our personal and financial information, the information for our five references, our agreement to their policies and finances, and our explanation of why we want to adopt.
*A current medical exam and TB test, then signed and sealed by our physician.
*A copy of our marriage license.
*A copy of our last years taxes.
*Photos of our family and our home.
*Our autobiographies which needed to discuss: our childhood, our educational history, our courtship and marriage history, our employment, our interests, and again why we want to adopt (This was probably the most overwhelming part).

For Holt International, the agency that we will be working with to complete the remainder of the paperwork to adopt from Ethiopia, we had to complete and gather:
*The application, which again included our personal and financial information, and our explanation of why we want to adopt.
*The agreement to their policies, signed and notarized.
*A copy of our last three years of taxes.
*Photos of our family and home.

Micah photocopied all of the information and then sent it out in the mail, and we couldn't have been more excited! We breathed a little deeper and felt a little lighter. We had a conversation about how we are really ready for this to happen and excited to be moving a little further along in the process. There is definitely anticipation as we wait for a response from both agencies. Once our applications are approved we will then complete our background check and fingerprinting. After that we will have to wait for our references to complete their letters of recommendation before we start the homestudy process.

We are very excited to begin this process and know that despite the moments of being overwhelmed, it will all be worth it.

Moving Through It

2008-09-11T19:16:00.000-06:00

Some of the paperwork that will be sent to both agencies-maybe we should consider planting a tree after this process is over!

We are in the process of finishing up everything needed to turn in our applications to both Wyoming Children's Society and Holt. It at times feels like such a daunting task and I can get overwhelmed.

I get overwhelmed thinking about the amount of time and energy needed to complete each item.

I get overwhelmed when I think about each day that passes by when it isn't finished and how this might prolong our adoption journey.

I get overwhelmed when I think of having to be so vulnerable and hope that people deem us as worthy parents.

My mind beings to race with thoughts of "what if....." and my heart begins to race with fear that something won't work out, and that we will be left empty handed.

But I have to trust, as hard as that can be at times. I have to take a deep breath and remember that we are doing this because we feel without a doubt that this is where we should be right now in our life. Despite how overwhelming it can be, we will move through this, and it will all be worth it.

yearnings

2008-09-06T10:42:00.000-06:00

I am browsing other blogs regarding their adoption journeys to Ethiopia and my heart is filled with a yearning.

I am yearning for our family to grow.

I am yearning for this process to move more quickly.

I am yearning for more and more people to grow passionate about those who need homes.

I am yearning for the hearts of these children to be filled.

I am yearning for a child to love and pour my life into.

So while we wait and while we yearn, we continue to hope.

Choosing an Agency

2008-09-01T14:13:00.001-06:00

We have been struggling with this decision for the last two months. As we started researching and looking into various agencies, we were amazed with the amount that we could select from. We never thought that it would be such a difficult process.
We narrowed our search down to four agencies and from there discussed what our priorities that should be found within the agency. We both felt strongly that there should be some form of in country support provided for the orphans. This may look like medical care or educational opportunities, or maybe even something entirely different. We just want to know that things are in place for the orphans that are there temporarily and for those that stay much longer than anticipated.
We quickly removed one agency from our list after reading about various problems they were having with regulations and following through in a professional manner. We then removed another agency from our list when we discovered how the amount of money to process the adoption is significantly larger than other agencies.
So here we are narrowed down to two agencies and we had the hardest time deciding. We created a long list of questions we had for the agency. We had then called and interviewed someone at both agencies. We also read blogs, joined web-groups, and checked out financial records. Finally, we took an evening and sat down to shift through all of the information we had gathered. As we were looking at all of the paper work, it became very obvious that one agency would provide a lot of what we were looking for. We still had a few follow up questions, which we called and had answered the next day, but once all was said and done we made our decision. We will be working with Holt International for the Ethiopia part and Wyoming Children's Society for our homestudy. We are happy to finally have made our decision and begin to move forward!

Announcing the News, Part II

2008-08-29T21:49:00.000-06:00

This weekend we gathered together with Micah's family for a little reunion. His parents had rented a cabin in the Snowies and we would spend three days together. We were very excited for this gathering because we had not seen all of his family in some time. We were also excited because we were planning on sharing with them our news regarding the adoption.

Friday was going to be the first day that we would all be together. We thought it would be best to share the news sooner than later. We invited our good friends to come out and eat dinner with us. We were so grateful to have them there because it was an emotional time and they helped keep us calm.

We had the idea of printing out an Ethiopian flag and cutting it into puzzle pieces. On the back of each puzzle piece we wrote a part of our message, "We are planning our adoption!" We gave the envelope to Ms. Von and gathered the family. There was some hesitation to participate in the activity, and a little frustration when things didn't go quite as smoothly, but once the news was shared it was a joyous time. We are happy to have some of our family finally know, and can't wait to tell the rest of our family!

Beginning to piece the puzzle together.

The puzzle finished, but then they had to get it turned over to read the message.

Someone had the idea of sliding it onto this plastic sleeve and then pulling the paper out.

But, that didn't work. :( We felt a little bad, but thankfully they stuck with it.

With the puzzle finally finished, the second time, Jon is the first to read the message!

Jon announces the news and LaVon is very excited to finally know!

LaVon, very excited to finally be a grandma!