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Sunday, October 12, 2008
3 Months home, Noah's Tol, and added thoughts!
Wow, We have been home over three months now! I can't believe it has been that long and yet it's as Noah has always been with us. Words cannot express my love for that little boy who now looks at me and calls me Momma. He truly is the light of my life, my dream come true, my miracle and most importantly..He is my SON!
Carrying Madison inside of me, and feeling her grow, experiencing childbirth, THAT is a miracle in itself, (who by the way she is also the light of my life!) But the miracle that brought Noah into our lives is truly seeing a different side of God's heart and blessings.
I was feeding him his bottle tonight, and singing to him "Jesus loves me, this I know" which I have done every night since we've had him. And I was just looking into his eyes, and something hit me. Most of you know I have had a heart for adoption for YEARS! And more importantly I have always loved ASIAN children. Tonight as I was looking into his eyes, I realized they were the eyes I have ALWAYS seen when I thought about my "future children". I always "assumed" that my child would have dark brown hair, and brown almond shaped eyes. Where I went wrong was I also always assumed it would be a "girl". I think that is why I had a heart, and still do for China! I can even remember saying to someone that I was surprised Madison didn't look like what I thought she would look like. Now don't get me wrong, I think Madison is BEAUTIFUL, and couldn't imagine her looking any other way, BUT tonight as I looked into those beautiful brown almond shaped eyes of my son, I gave thanks to God for bringing him into our lives!
Noah celebrated his 1st birthday, or Tol as they say in Korean, a few weeks ago. That was a very bittersweet day for me. I can not imagine the pain and thoughts that his Birth Mother was feeling that very same day a half a world away, as I was celebrating him being in our lives. I prayed for her to have peace and to feel the love of my (and her) Heavenly Father. I am so thankful that she made an adoption plan for him, and that decision alone must have been excruciating. I could not even begin to imagine the pain that she went through, and yet have the strength not to end his life, like so many women in those situations do. It brings tears to my eyes to just think about it. If she would have, our son would not have been born. It's true some might say "Well, you would have another son" but still it would not have been Noah. And I just can not imagine not seeing his little face light up in the morning, or the arch of his back now when he doesn't get his way. Or hear the pitter patter of his feet as he is walking down the hall.
My love for him is unmeasurable. I am just overcome with emotion. Our bonding process, after a rough start, has started progressing smoothly. It took him about 6 weeks to finally start to trust me. And although the bonding process can take years, we are well on our way I think!
We celebrated Noah's birthday Korean style. We had a family party at our house and I made Korean food, had a Tol table as you can see from the post before this one, and we had a traditional Toljabee event. He wore his hanbok, which is his traditional Korean outfit that his loving foster family gave to him!
Toljabee Event from LifeinKorea.com
In this event, the birthday child goes around the table and picks up items that attract him or her. The child's future is predicted according to the what he or she grabs. After placing the child in front of the table, the child's father becomes the guide for the child to go around the table and grab whatever he or she wants. The first and second items the child grabs are considered the most important. Usually Korean parents place the items that they want the child to choose near to the edge of the table. The child's future is predicted according to the items:
-bow and arrow: the child will become a warrior
-needle and thread: the child will live long
-jujube: the child will have many descendants
-book, pencil, or related items: the child will become a successful scholar
-rice or rice cake: the child will become rich
-ruler, needle, scissors: the child will be talented with his/her hands
-knife: the child will be a good cook
We also threw in a bible: for him to become a preacher and a football: for him to become a professional player =)
Needless to say, he picked the rice cake and the needle and thread. So he will have a long, rich life. At least it sounds promising!
The Korean food was a hit which surprised me since it was family, although Jamie's Dad didn't eat it. We made Bulgogi, rice, a chicken dish, garlic broccoli, Jook, and Kimchi! My grandma even ate the Kimchi and liked it! We had a cake for Noah with a little monkey on it, and we had a big cake for everyone that had an American Flag and a Korean flag that said Happy Birthday Noah! He didn't know what to think of the cake at first but after a few bites he loved it!
His favorite toy was from his uncle Buster and it is a little green 4 wheeler that makes noises! He loves it!
OK well I think I am done for now, if I think of anything I will add it later.
Carrying Madison inside of me, and feeling her grow, experiencing childbirth, THAT is a miracle in itself, (who by the way she is also the light of my life!) But the miracle that brought Noah into our lives is truly seeing a different side of God's heart and blessings.
I was feeding him his bottle tonight, and singing to him "Jesus loves me, this I know" which I have done every night since we've had him. And I was just looking into his eyes, and something hit me. Most of you know I have had a heart for adoption for YEARS! And more importantly I have always loved ASIAN children. Tonight as I was looking into his eyes, I realized they were the eyes I have ALWAYS seen when I thought about my "future children". I always "assumed" that my child would have dark brown hair, and brown almond shaped eyes. Where I went wrong was I also always assumed it would be a "girl". I think that is why I had a heart, and still do for China! I can even remember saying to someone that I was surprised Madison didn't look like what I thought she would look like. Now don't get me wrong, I think Madison is BEAUTIFUL, and couldn't imagine her looking any other way, BUT tonight as I looked into those beautiful brown almond shaped eyes of my son, I gave thanks to God for bringing him into our lives!
Noah celebrated his 1st birthday, or Tol as they say in Korean, a few weeks ago. That was a very bittersweet day for me. I can not imagine the pain and thoughts that his Birth Mother was feeling that very same day a half a world away, as I was celebrating him being in our lives. I prayed for her to have peace and to feel the love of my (and her) Heavenly Father. I am so thankful that she made an adoption plan for him, and that decision alone must have been excruciating. I could not even begin to imagine the pain that she went through, and yet have the strength not to end his life, like so many women in those situations do. It brings tears to my eyes to just think about it. If she would have, our son would not have been born. It's true some might say "Well, you would have another son" but still it would not have been Noah. And I just can not imagine not seeing his little face light up in the morning, or the arch of his back now when he doesn't get his way. Or hear the pitter patter of his feet as he is walking down the hall.
My love for him is unmeasurable. I am just overcome with emotion. Our bonding process, after a rough start, has started progressing smoothly. It took him about 6 weeks to finally start to trust me. And although the bonding process can take years, we are well on our way I think!
We celebrated Noah's birthday Korean style. We had a family party at our house and I made Korean food, had a Tol table as you can see from the post before this one, and we had a traditional Toljabee event. He wore his hanbok, which is his traditional Korean outfit that his loving foster family gave to him!
Toljabee Event from LifeinKorea.com
In this event, the birthday child goes around the table and picks up items that attract him or her. The child's future is predicted according to the what he or she grabs. After placing the child in front of the table, the child's father becomes the guide for the child to go around the table and grab whatever he or she wants. The first and second items the child grabs are considered the most important. Usually Korean parents place the items that they want the child to choose near to the edge of the table. The child's future is predicted according to the items:
-bow and arrow: the child will become a warrior
-needle and thread: the child will live long
-jujube: the child will have many descendants
-book, pencil, or related items: the child will become a successful scholar
-rice or rice cake: the child will become rich
-ruler, needle, scissors: the child will be talented with his/her hands
-knife: the child will be a good cook
We also threw in a bible: for him to become a preacher and a football: for him to become a professional player =)
Needless to say, he picked the rice cake and the needle and thread. So he will have a long, rich life. At least it sounds promising!
The Korean food was a hit which surprised me since it was family, although Jamie's Dad didn't eat it. We made Bulgogi, rice, a chicken dish, garlic broccoli, Jook, and Kimchi! My grandma even ate the Kimchi and liked it! We had a cake for Noah with a little monkey on it, and we had a big cake for everyone that had an American Flag and a Korean flag that said Happy Birthday Noah! He didn't know what to think of the cake at first but after a few bites he loved it!
His favorite toy was from his uncle Buster and it is a little green 4 wheeler that makes noises! He loves it!
OK well I think I am done for now, if I think of anything I will add it later.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Learning to Trust...
We have been home almost two months, and things have gotten much better. Noah is finally learning to trust me. Since I last posted I returned to work, where thankfully, though hard at times, Noah and Madison are with me. Noah has done remarkable there, and really enjoys being with the other kids.
Almost a month ago he got his first fever,(He has another now and had one two weeks ago-poor guy) and things went from being OK to B.A.D. He would be ok during during the day, even with his fever, and Jamie kept him home (although it was a hard decision-I didn't want to be away from him that long) but at night he was inconsolable. He would cry and cry for "Omma" and "Ahpa" I definitely wasn't who he wanted. After he was fever free, he decided he didn't want to eat from me. At first I thought he was still not feeling well, but then at work my co-worker gave him a small bite of her lunch, and he ate it fine, it was just me. Well, mean mommy that I am (after crying in the car) I wouldn't let her feed him, and after about another day, he decided that I wasn't too bad, and he has done WONDERFUL since then. I believe he realized that I am not leaving him, and sad as it is, that his "Omma" isn't coming back. He really is starting to trust me, and although we still have a long way to go, I am seeing progress everyday. He is even starting to show more affection towards me, and will give me hugs and kisses occassionally! He has even started laying his head on my shoulder and "melting" into me!
It is funny that even as a child trust is something that takes time to learn, and develop.
Almost a month ago he got his first fever,(He has another now and had one two weeks ago-poor guy) and things went from being OK to B.A.D. He would be ok during during the day, even with his fever, and Jamie kept him home (although it was a hard decision-I didn't want to be away from him that long) but at night he was inconsolable. He would cry and cry for "Omma" and "Ahpa" I definitely wasn't who he wanted. After he was fever free, he decided he didn't want to eat from me. At first I thought he was still not feeling well, but then at work my co-worker gave him a small bite of her lunch, and he ate it fine, it was just me. Well, mean mommy that I am (after crying in the car) I wouldn't let her feed him, and after about another day, he decided that I wasn't too bad, and he has done WONDERFUL since then. I believe he realized that I am not leaving him, and sad as it is, that his "Omma" isn't coming back. He really is starting to trust me, and although we still have a long way to go, I am seeing progress everyday. He is even starting to show more affection towards me, and will give me hugs and kisses occassionally! He has even started laying his head on my shoulder and "melting" into me!
It is funny that even as a child trust is something that takes time to learn, and develop.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Our Beautiful Announcement.....
I have been looking at layouts for announcements, and never really found any that were really me, or fit our family. Until I looked at one of my fellow Holt bb'ers blogspot page. She does BEAUTIFUL digiscrapping, (or scrapbooking online) I saw a layout that she created a while back, and asked her if she would be interested in making an adoption announcement for us. She agreed, and out of the kindness of her heart, made the "perfect" announcement for our family. Here is the link to her blog >>> http://mommiakai.blogspot.com/ Her work is amazing you should check it out!
And now for the announcement (name and birthdate was changed to protect privacy) Everyone who knows us...knows our names! We are in the printing stage and then they will be in the mail!
And now for the announcement (name and birthdate was changed to protect privacy) Everyone who knows us...knows our names! We are in the printing stage and then they will be in the mail!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Gains and Losses.....
As my time off is coming to an end, I wanted to make a post about the gains and losses in adoption. Noah is doing ok, we have been home two weeks yesterday, and things are going pretty well. I say pretty well because I can't imagine the thoughts that are going thru his little head. He is starting to get more attached to me. For a while he has been favoring Jamie, and didn't want to have anything to do with me as long as he was around. If he wasn't around, then Noah did fine with me. Now I am starting to get more giggles, kisses, and smiles, so it's coming, just slowly.
When someone is pregnant with a child, the child learns and hears his mother's voice. When Noah was in the womb of his birth mom, I wonder what she said to him. I can't imagine the feelings that she has went thru. I wonder if she told him how much she loved him? Obviously she did, she gave him the greatest gift she could....she gave him life, and although she wasn't able to provide for any child at the time, she must have wanted him to have a life that she couldn't give him. She carried him for 9months inside her womb, he heard her speaking and knew the sound of her voice. when he was born and those few days in the hospital, did she hold him, did he hear his birth mothers voice, or did he never hear it again? Loss number 1.
Then he went off to Eastern (the nursery/orphanage)where he was for 6 weeks. There he heard one voice after another, no one at times able to meet his needs, feed him when he was hungry, change him when he needed to be changed, or just cuddle him when he needed comforted. Don't get me wrong, those workers LOVE those babies, and do all they can for them, but when there are 60 babies and only 4 workers.....I am in childcare I know how it is.....there are times when they just have to wait. Loss number 2.
November 19, 2007, Mrs. C came to Eastern and they placed little Noah in her arms. She cared for him, like he was one of her own children. She LOVED him, she met all of his needs, and made him laugh. He was happy. He was "home". SHE was his mother, and her husband, and children were his family.
Then on June 6, 2008 his "world" was turned upside down, literally. His "home" as he knew it was no longer there, his "omma" was no longer there, all that was there were these 3 people who looked different, talked different, and smelled different, and yet we all seemed so happy, yet he was scared and didn't know what was going on in his life. Would his needs be met, I am sure he wondered in his little head. It was a huge GAIN for all of us, it just is going to take Noah a while to figure it out. To him this was his biggest LOSS of all.
People have asked, and I am sure thought we are crazy for not letting anyone hold him yet,(remember we did have to have 10 hours of training on this) but put yourself in his shoes for a minute.....He has no idea who we are, I think now he is starting to realize that we are going to meet his needs, but in his eyes, so did his "omma" but only for a while. Maybe he thinks we are going to leave him to. I understand he is just a baby, but think of any 9 month old you know, even younger, they know who there mom's are, so imagine that nine month old never seeing them again, and not understanding why?
And if Noah doesn't get held by other people for a while or he gets a little bit spoiled, I think it's ok. Besides after all he's been thru in his 9 months of life, don't you think he deserves it?
I know I tend to worry *alot* and I am sure Noah is adjusting like he should. I was just SO naive in thinking that he would love me from the moment he saw me like I did him. I have loved that child even before I ever saw his picture or even knew his name, that is what adoption is all about. "Adoption is when a child doesn't grow under your heart but IN it."
Adoption is a precious gift. It's just no one can figure out how to explain it to a baby.
I thank God everyday for Noah. He truly was meant to be mine. I am thankful to his birthmom for her ultimate sacrifice, and for his "omma" for taking such fabulous care of Noah until he was able to finally be in my arms. I can't imagine how hard these last 2 weeks have been on her and her family. It truly takes special families to foster children. I thank God for them also.
If anyone would like more information on healty attachment and bonding, here is the link. http://www.a4everfamily.org/index.php
1 Samuel 1:27
I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted what I asked of Him.
When someone is pregnant with a child, the child learns and hears his mother's voice. When Noah was in the womb of his birth mom, I wonder what she said to him. I can't imagine the feelings that she has went thru. I wonder if she told him how much she loved him? Obviously she did, she gave him the greatest gift she could....she gave him life, and although she wasn't able to provide for any child at the time, she must have wanted him to have a life that she couldn't give him. She carried him for 9months inside her womb, he heard her speaking and knew the sound of her voice. when he was born and those few days in the hospital, did she hold him, did he hear his birth mothers voice, or did he never hear it again? Loss number 1.
Then he went off to Eastern (the nursery/orphanage)where he was for 6 weeks. There he heard one voice after another, no one at times able to meet his needs, feed him when he was hungry, change him when he needed to be changed, or just cuddle him when he needed comforted. Don't get me wrong, those workers LOVE those babies, and do all they can for them, but when there are 60 babies and only 4 workers.....I am in childcare I know how it is.....there are times when they just have to wait. Loss number 2.
November 19, 2007, Mrs. C came to Eastern and they placed little Noah in her arms. She cared for him, like he was one of her own children. She LOVED him, she met all of his needs, and made him laugh. He was happy. He was "home". SHE was his mother, and her husband, and children were his family.
Then on June 6, 2008 his "world" was turned upside down, literally. His "home" as he knew it was no longer there, his "omma" was no longer there, all that was there were these 3 people who looked different, talked different, and smelled different, and yet we all seemed so happy, yet he was scared and didn't know what was going on in his life. Would his needs be met, I am sure he wondered in his little head. It was a huge GAIN for all of us, it just is going to take Noah a while to figure it out. To him this was his biggest LOSS of all.
People have asked, and I am sure thought we are crazy for not letting anyone hold him yet,(remember we did have to have 10 hours of training on this) but put yourself in his shoes for a minute.....He has no idea who we are, I think now he is starting to realize that we are going to meet his needs, but in his eyes, so did his "omma" but only for a while. Maybe he thinks we are going to leave him to. I understand he is just a baby, but think of any 9 month old you know, even younger, they know who there mom's are, so imagine that nine month old never seeing them again, and not understanding why?
And if Noah doesn't get held by other people for a while or he gets a little bit spoiled, I think it's ok. Besides after all he's been thru in his 9 months of life, don't you think he deserves it?
I know I tend to worry *alot* and I am sure Noah is adjusting like he should. I was just SO naive in thinking that he would love me from the moment he saw me like I did him. I have loved that child even before I ever saw his picture or even knew his name, that is what adoption is all about. "Adoption is when a child doesn't grow under your heart but IN it."
Adoption is a precious gift. It's just no one can figure out how to explain it to a baby.
I thank God everyday for Noah. He truly was meant to be mine. I am thankful to his birthmom for her ultimate sacrifice, and for his "omma" for taking such fabulous care of Noah until he was able to finally be in my arms. I can't imagine how hard these last 2 weeks have been on her and her family. It truly takes special families to foster children. I thank God for them also.
If anyone would like more information on healty attachment and bonding, here is the link. http://www.a4everfamily.org/index.php
1 Samuel 1:27
I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted what I asked of Him.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
We are home. ETA the real update
We received Noah Sunday July 6, 2008 at 4pm. It was very hard, seeing his foster family, we were all in tears. The blessing ceremony was hard also. Noah is doing well. He is such a good baby. His night was good. He was very sad at first, and cried off and on, and slept. He was in bed with me, and slept most of the night, just waking up for a bottle. I will update more later, because I know you are more interested in this.............FINALLY!
We have lots more, but for now that is all I have time for!
ETA:
Just a quick update on us. Seoul was awesome, we did a lot while we were there, but are glad to be home! We received Noah on Sunday night. Things went well, it was very hard and the founder of Eastern did the blessing ceremony. His whole foster family came, (except their 2nd daughter-apperantly she was really close to Noah-so I am guessing it was too hard)
He cried for a while, and then slept. I assume it was his way of shutting down a little. When he woke up we got a few smiles out of him and he seems to really like Madison and watched her every move.
He slept with me, and only woke once to eat. he fussed some in his sleep, but never woke up. The plane ride went well. He did not cry at all. In fact he slept about 9 hours total of the 12 hour flight.
Yesterday when we got home he was a little overwhelmed. I kept him up until 7:30, but let him play in his crib. he liked it. After he had his bottle he fell asleep, and I put him in his crib. The rest of us went to bed at 8;00. I slept in his room on a futon, and he woke up 2 times to eat. The first time he cried about an hour, but wasn't inconsolable. The second time he went right back to bed after his bottle. about 4:30 or so he woke up and I put him on the futon with me, and we slept until 8:00.
Today he has been all smiles, reaching for me, and following me around. he has been playing in the floor with his toys and Madison. He goes to my husband fine, but prefers me, and won't drink much of a bottle from him. he will take it fine from me. he is making good eyecontact, and I wear him whenever I feel like he is overwhelmed.
He is a doll, and love love love him. Words can't describe the feeling I have when I hold him in my arms. God has blessed us with a child perfect for our family.
Oh and he is CHUNKY!!! We had to return the size 3 diapers I bought. I weighed him this morning and he is 23 pounds!!!
We have lots more, but for now that is all I have time for!
ETA:
Just a quick update on us. Seoul was awesome, we did a lot while we were there, but are glad to be home! We received Noah on Sunday night. Things went well, it was very hard and the founder of Eastern did the blessing ceremony. His whole foster family came, (except their 2nd daughter-apperantly she was really close to Noah-so I am guessing it was too hard)
He cried for a while, and then slept. I assume it was his way of shutting down a little. When he woke up we got a few smiles out of him and he seems to really like Madison and watched her every move.
He slept with me, and only woke once to eat. he fussed some in his sleep, but never woke up. The plane ride went well. He did not cry at all. In fact he slept about 9 hours total of the 12 hour flight.
Yesterday when we got home he was a little overwhelmed. I kept him up until 7:30, but let him play in his crib. he liked it. After he had his bottle he fell asleep, and I put him in his crib. The rest of us went to bed at 8;00. I slept in his room on a futon, and he woke up 2 times to eat. The first time he cried about an hour, but wasn't inconsolable. The second time he went right back to bed after his bottle. about 4:30 or so he woke up and I put him on the futon with me, and we slept until 8:00.
Today he has been all smiles, reaching for me, and following me around. he has been playing in the floor with his toys and Madison. He goes to my husband fine, but prefers me, and won't drink much of a bottle from him. he will take it fine from me. he is making good eyecontact, and I wear him whenever I feel like he is overwhelmed.
He is a doll, and love love love him. Words can't describe the feeling I have when I hold him in my arms. God has blessed us with a child perfect for our family.
Oh and he is CHUNKY!!! We had to return the size 3 diapers I bought. I weighed him this morning and he is 23 pounds!!!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Today is the day, and yesterday's happenings!
Yesterday we went on a downtown tour, and to the palaces. We went inside one of the palaces, and it was beautiful. The architecture was AMAZING! I took lots of pictures. Then we went back to the hotel, and took a nap. Madison was tired today! I can't get over how good she is being, it is blowing me away. I mean we have been walking about 4-6 hours a day, and she hasn't complained once! She hasn't even been asked to be carried. Sometimes Jamie will just pick her up if it is busy or crowded. After we took a nap, we met the other couple and Allen back at the guesthouse and had a birthday party for Madison! We ordered a cake from the local bakery. It was definitly not one of Gina's cakes! It tasted like bread with some kind of fruit in it and chocolate syrup/icing on the top, but we told her no one she knows has ever had a Korean cake for their birthday, and we will have a Gina cake after we get home.
After the party we went back to Nandaemun market, which is near city hall, so we took the subway. We noticed there was some kind of street party, and we moved on to the market. Well, on the way back, we saw thousands and thousands of people doing a candle light vigil for something, we saw a white person with a korean girl and asked what it was.......it was the protesters about the US BEEF!!! Needless to say we didn't waste any time getting back to the subway! We took some pictures of that too.
Today which is Sunday July 6th, we are going to church with the missionaries Walt and Jackie whom we met back home last Oct. They are having a dinner on the grounds afterwards and we are going to have some fellowship time with them. They said the church has grown from 70 people when they got here in late March to 110 last Sunday!
Then we are going to Iteawon market, and possibly the War Memorial, if we have time. We have to be back at the guesthouse by 4:00pm to pick up Noah and have his blessing ceremony with Senior Dr. Kim! Then he is ours forever!! What an iteresting night it will be!
Well, I probably won't write anymore, as we will be heading home tomorrow (Monday July7) at 7:00 am. Keep us in your prayers as we journey back to the US as a family of 4!!!
After the party we went back to Nandaemun market, which is near city hall, so we took the subway. We noticed there was some kind of street party, and we moved on to the market. Well, on the way back, we saw thousands and thousands of people doing a candle light vigil for something, we saw a white person with a korean girl and asked what it was.......it was the protesters about the US BEEF!!! Needless to say we didn't waste any time getting back to the subway! We took some pictures of that too.
Today which is Sunday July 6th, we are going to church with the missionaries Walt and Jackie whom we met back home last Oct. They are having a dinner on the grounds afterwards and we are going to have some fellowship time with them. They said the church has grown from 70 people when they got here in late March to 110 last Sunday!
Then we are going to Iteawon market, and possibly the War Memorial, if we have time. We have to be back at the guesthouse by 4:00pm to pick up Noah and have his blessing ceremony with Senior Dr. Kim! Then he is ours forever!! What an iteresting night it will be!
Well, I probably won't write anymore, as we will be heading home tomorrow (Monday July7) at 7:00 am. Keep us in your prayers as we journey back to the US as a family of 4!!!
Friday, July 4, 2008
HAPPY 4TH AND MADISON'S BIRTHDAY!
Today is Saturday July 5, at 6:45 am. Yesterday was a good day. In the morning we took at taxi to the Kyobo Book Center it was amazing, too bad it was mostly Korean. I picked up a few childrens books for Noah that was in English and Korean, and a few CD's with Korean childrens music. Madison of course bought a Disney Princess coloring book that is in Korean. Then we came back to the guesthouse and got to see Noah.
It was really hard today, he was scared of Jamie, and me, then his foster mom gave us some of his snacks to feed him, He would eat them from Madison, and slowly Jamie and myself. I fed him a bottle, and he kept touching my face which his foster mom says he does when he is content, and happy. She said he is beginning to like my face.
Our social worker asked if we are picking him up Monday morning, and I asked if we could have him Sunday night, and she said yes, so we get him FOREVER Sunday at 4:00pm. Once we have him we can't leave the guesthouse until we leave for the airport, but that will be ok because we are really going to need that time, and time when we get home to get adjusted. It is going to be EXTREMELY hard on Noah. His foster mom said when he was sick, that the foster mom's can't stay with him when they are in the hospital, and he was very stressed, and since then when he gets stressed he pulls his hair. That is something we are going to have to work on when we get home, keeping him calm, and knowing that he is loved.
I started to cry after she said we could have him Sunday night, because the foster mom was very sad. We were both crying, actually all of us were. I looked at here when the social worker walked out of the room, and said Kamsahamnida (thank you) and touched Noah's hair and said I know she loved him, and she took my hand and we just cried. It was very very emotional. She asked for us to please send her pictures ,and of course we will. She is the only mother he has known for 9 months and they loved him, just like her own children. She gave us a note in Korean that we will need to have translated, hopefully we will be able to soon. She gave us a hanbok which is the traditional Korean dress, it is BEAUTIFUL. She gave us his little blankie that we gave him, and his towel from home to help with his transition. Also two packs of his snacks and his favorite toy which is a stuffed winnie the pooh. Tomorrow will be extremely hard, and the Senior Dr. Kim will pray over Noah, before he is given to us. they say it is extremely hard on the foster mom then, as well as us.
After our meeting we met Allen, and went to eat.....at the Outback....it was horrible, and now I think I am a little sick. Hopefully will be better by tomorrow, or I will start the antibiotics that the Dr sent from home. We met back here at the guesthouse and picked up the other couple Jessica and Josh, and headed towards the subway. We went to Yangsan, and it took us 3 hours to get there, but we made it, we weren't lost it was just a TON of walking. Madison has been phenomanal. She walked the whole time, never complaining, just loving it! Allen was able to get us onto the Army base there, not the one he is stationed at but another one. None of us had ever been on a military base before, so that was really neat. What was the greatest, is that while we are here in Seoul, Korea, we were able to celebrate the Independance of our Country on the Military base with our soldiers and saw a fabulous fireworks display. The only thing missing was the Hot Air Balloons! Then we had to hurry back to the guesthouse because they lock the doors at 11:00pm and we were worried since it took us 3 hrs to walk and take the subway, that we would be late. We decided to take a cab, thinking it would be about 50000 won ($50) but we would split the cost. So we got in the taxi, and was home in less than 10 MIN....we couldn't believe it. It cost less than $6 total....today we are only using a taxi!
We are going to try to do something nice for Madison's Birthday but not sure what yet, and we would like to tour the DMZ line tomorrow morning before we get Noah. I will try to update at least one more time before we come home, but if not we will be home Monday! Lisa-remind Buster to bring the carseat ! OH and Noah's FM said he loves to be in the car, BUT has never been in a carseat, so I am sure we are in for it!
Our love to everyone, and please keep us in your prayers, as we receive Noah, and travel home, also for his foster family, and him and Madison as we transition to a family of 4!
It was really hard today, he was scared of Jamie, and me, then his foster mom gave us some of his snacks to feed him, He would eat them from Madison, and slowly Jamie and myself. I fed him a bottle, and he kept touching my face which his foster mom says he does when he is content, and happy. She said he is beginning to like my face.
Our social worker asked if we are picking him up Monday morning, and I asked if we could have him Sunday night, and she said yes, so we get him FOREVER Sunday at 4:00pm. Once we have him we can't leave the guesthouse until we leave for the airport, but that will be ok because we are really going to need that time, and time when we get home to get adjusted. It is going to be EXTREMELY hard on Noah. His foster mom said when he was sick, that the foster mom's can't stay with him when they are in the hospital, and he was very stressed, and since then when he gets stressed he pulls his hair. That is something we are going to have to work on when we get home, keeping him calm, and knowing that he is loved.
I started to cry after she said we could have him Sunday night, because the foster mom was very sad. We were both crying, actually all of us were. I looked at here when the social worker walked out of the room, and said Kamsahamnida (thank you) and touched Noah's hair and said I know she loved him, and she took my hand and we just cried. It was very very emotional. She asked for us to please send her pictures ,and of course we will. She is the only mother he has known for 9 months and they loved him, just like her own children. She gave us a note in Korean that we will need to have translated, hopefully we will be able to soon. She gave us a hanbok which is the traditional Korean dress, it is BEAUTIFUL. She gave us his little blankie that we gave him, and his towel from home to help with his transition. Also two packs of his snacks and his favorite toy which is a stuffed winnie the pooh. Tomorrow will be extremely hard, and the Senior Dr. Kim will pray over Noah, before he is given to us. they say it is extremely hard on the foster mom then, as well as us.
After our meeting we met Allen, and went to eat.....at the Outback....it was horrible, and now I think I am a little sick. Hopefully will be better by tomorrow, or I will start the antibiotics that the Dr sent from home. We met back here at the guesthouse and picked up the other couple Jessica and Josh, and headed towards the subway. We went to Yangsan, and it took us 3 hours to get there, but we made it, we weren't lost it was just a TON of walking. Madison has been phenomanal. She walked the whole time, never complaining, just loving it! Allen was able to get us onto the Army base there, not the one he is stationed at but another one. None of us had ever been on a military base before, so that was really neat. What was the greatest, is that while we are here in Seoul, Korea, we were able to celebrate the Independance of our Country on the Military base with our soldiers and saw a fabulous fireworks display. The only thing missing was the Hot Air Balloons! Then we had to hurry back to the guesthouse because they lock the doors at 11:00pm and we were worried since it took us 3 hrs to walk and take the subway, that we would be late. We decided to take a cab, thinking it would be about 50000 won ($50) but we would split the cost. So we got in the taxi, and was home in less than 10 MIN....we couldn't believe it. It cost less than $6 total....today we are only using a taxi!
We are going to try to do something nice for Madison's Birthday but not sure what yet, and we would like to tour the DMZ line tomorrow morning before we get Noah. I will try to update at least one more time before we come home, but if not we will be home Monday! Lisa-remind Buster to bring the carseat ! OH and Noah's FM said he loves to be in the car, BUT has never been in a carseat, so I am sure we are in for it!
Our love to everyone, and please keep us in your prayers, as we receive Noah, and travel home, also for his foster family, and him and Madison as we transition to a family of 4!
Thursday, July 3, 2008
What an amazing day!
It's Friday July 4th here at 3:30 am. I did a little better with sleeping last night, we didn't go to sleep until 9 pm and actually stayed asleep until just now. It was an awesome day today. The weather cleared up, and we were able to venture out.
We went back up to the nursery early Thursday morning, and stayed about 1 hr and 1/2. It is still my favorite place to be, they need so much help. It's alot like being back at work, except 6 times bigger. =( Madison LOVES being up there and is such a big helper!
She has been AWESOME! Everyone (American's) comment on how well behaved she is being (she has them all fooled ), and is LOVING every second of attention she is getting from the Korean people. (who would have thought) They keep saying how pretty she is and touching her hair, and telling her how lucky she is. They want her to give them high 5, and a few young police officers were making faces at her to make her laugh!
We met the President Dr. Kim today, and she told us the history of Eastern (our agency here) and how Senior Dr. Kim had a heart for the orphans and wanted to find them find homes.
Then we had lunch here at the guesthouse with the workers and 4 other adoptive families, and 8 families who are back on a birth tour (one family we met at the airport, and their son will be 13 on July 5-he was adopted from here 13 years ago) The food was great! Kimchi, Bulgogi, some type of chicken, and everything else we just didn't ask! It was all very tasty.
After lunch we had the honor of meeting the founder Senior Dr. Kim he will be 93! He works from 9-5 and is a fabulous christian man. He spoke to us about the history of Korea, and how he started the agency, and how they have placed I believe over 45,000 babies since 1963, that year might not be right, I will need to double check. He is so thankful that Americans can love and take care of their babies and give them a chance to have a life that they wouldn't have here. It was really a touching moment. That man is truly a man of God. I am thankful that we were able to meet him.
Another couple is staying in the room beside us, they are adopting a little girl, and we all decided to venture out together after our meetings. We took the subway! It was a little confusing at first, but I think we figured it out. We went to City Hall, and to the Namdaemun market. The market was ok, I am not one to haggle with people so I just paid what they said, I think I spent about 65000 won so $65. We were laughing with the other couple, Jessica and Josh, because the lady was telling me something was 5000 won and then would tell her the same thing was 10000 won. And we think she was telling the other Koreans 3000 won. Needless to say, it was an experience.
Then we decided to find a restaurant, which was a lot of fun, especially trying to figure out what they served. The great man, who helps at our agency Mr. Shin, who has been fabulous, wrote us a note to give the restaurant that said give them good bulgogi, and gave us directions, well we walked to where he said, went in and handed the man our note, he said no bulgogi, so we left, walked back to the agency and told Mr. Shin no bulgogi, so he walked us to the right place, and it had closed down recently, so he literally walked us to every restaurant in the course of 4 blocks, he said he'd never been down that way before, and then kept asking us if we wanted pizza, we could have it in 10 min! We told him we didn't want pizza, so we thanked him and went back to the first restaurant we went to, we ordered 2 plates of stuff we think was chicken. It was actually pretty good.
Well, we see Noah again today, they changed our time to 1:00 pm, so I will update more after we see him.
We went back up to the nursery early Thursday morning, and stayed about 1 hr and 1/2. It is still my favorite place to be, they need so much help. It's alot like being back at work, except 6 times bigger. =( Madison LOVES being up there and is such a big helper!
She has been AWESOME! Everyone (American's) comment on how well behaved she is being (she has them all fooled ), and is LOVING every second of attention she is getting from the Korean people. (who would have thought) They keep saying how pretty she is and touching her hair, and telling her how lucky she is. They want her to give them high 5, and a few young police officers were making faces at her to make her laugh!
We met the President Dr. Kim today, and she told us the history of Eastern (our agency here) and how Senior Dr. Kim had a heart for the orphans and wanted to find them find homes.
Then we had lunch here at the guesthouse with the workers and 4 other adoptive families, and 8 families who are back on a birth tour (one family we met at the airport, and their son will be 13 on July 5-he was adopted from here 13 years ago) The food was great! Kimchi, Bulgogi, some type of chicken, and everything else we just didn't ask! It was all very tasty.
After lunch we had the honor of meeting the founder Senior Dr. Kim he will be 93! He works from 9-5 and is a fabulous christian man. He spoke to us about the history of Korea, and how he started the agency, and how they have placed I believe over 45,000 babies since 1963, that year might not be right, I will need to double check. He is so thankful that Americans can love and take care of their babies and give them a chance to have a life that they wouldn't have here. It was really a touching moment. That man is truly a man of God. I am thankful that we were able to meet him.
Another couple is staying in the room beside us, they are adopting a little girl, and we all decided to venture out together after our meetings. We took the subway! It was a little confusing at first, but I think we figured it out. We went to City Hall, and to the Namdaemun market. The market was ok, I am not one to haggle with people so I just paid what they said, I think I spent about 65000 won so $65. We were laughing with the other couple, Jessica and Josh, because the lady was telling me something was 5000 won and then would tell her the same thing was 10000 won. And we think she was telling the other Koreans 3000 won. Needless to say, it was an experience.
Then we decided to find a restaurant, which was a lot of fun, especially trying to figure out what they served. The great man, who helps at our agency Mr. Shin, who has been fabulous, wrote us a note to give the restaurant that said give them good bulgogi, and gave us directions, well we walked to where he said, went in and handed the man our note, he said no bulgogi, so we left, walked back to the agency and told Mr. Shin no bulgogi, so he walked us to the right place, and it had closed down recently, so he literally walked us to every restaurant in the course of 4 blocks, he said he'd never been down that way before, and then kept asking us if we wanted pizza, we could have it in 10 min! We told him we didn't want pizza, so we thanked him and went back to the first restaurant we went to, we ordered 2 plates of stuff we think was chicken. It was actually pretty good.
Well, we see Noah again today, they changed our time to 1:00 pm, so I will update more after we see him.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
We met Noah!!
Well, it's 12:30am Thursday July 3rd. I didn't use the computers because it is in the room where parents meet there children and I didn't want to intrude during those times. We met Noah yesterday, it was great. He is HUGE!!! ADORABLE, Words can't describe how it felt seeing him for the first time. He came with his Foster Mom and her 2nd daughter. She gave us 2 photo albums of pictures of him. He was shy at first, and would look at me and then back to fm. Jamie held him first I talked to the foster mom. Her daughter was sad, we both cried just a little bit. His hair is still sticking straight up he looks the same as his last picture. His nails are cut short, i knew Laura would be proud!!!! He was wearing a tshirt and jeans. Madison did fabulous, played with him and talked to him! He likes to be carried on his fm back so she seemed glad that I have one. She said he understands "obobe" which is the term for riding on his back!
His foster mom has taken really good care of him. She did have another foster son who left in March and went home to California. She made sure I knew he LOVES his bath, and make sure he gets one everyday! He sleeps on a mat in the floor by himself, and she said it is important for him to go to sleep by hisself, so he might cry a little BUT LET HIM!! she said she gives him a bottle and pulls the door closed. (we'll have to work on that)He fell asleep in my arms and it was so hot he was sweating, I was sweating and the foster mom said he doesn't like to be hot!! HE WILL FIT IN GREAT!!!! I can't fifure out a way to post pictures yet but will try later.
We haven't ventured out much today, we went for a walk and then it poured down rain the rest of the day. We bought a HUGE umbrella 5000 won ($5) We have a busy day today we are going to meet Young Dr. Kim at 11:30 have lunch with them at 12:00 Meet the old Dr. Kim at 1:30. We get to see Noah again on Friday at 2:00. I am going to ask if we can get him on Sunday because we have to leave for the airport at 7:30, but as of yesterday our social worker said Monday morning. We'll see.
We have been to the baby nursery here, it's SOOOO SAD. THAT IS WHERE I HAVE CRIED THE MOST. There is 61 babies and 4 workers. They are in 3 rooms, when we went in they put us to work, even Madison. They gave her a baby that just came in 1 hr before was born 5/15 and had heart surgery. If it rains a lot we are going to spend a lot of time there. There was a 1 year old, and the rest all under 5 months I think.
As for food, none of us are very hungry, but we went to pizza hut yesterday!! Our first meal in Korea (ha ha) It was 25000 won(about 25 dollars), but the pizza was a personal pan (that is there med) and we had a salad bar, but it wasn't lettuce it was fruits and all this different salads, like potato and some seafood I tried it was good it tasted like crab but didn't look like it and I didn't ask.
We met the other family with they 6 year old last night and they received their daughter we videod for them. They are leaving today. It was nice to meet them though, and put a face to their names.
Ok that's all I can think of right now, i will try to update more later, and figure out the pictures.
His foster mom has taken really good care of him. She did have another foster son who left in March and went home to California. She made sure I knew he LOVES his bath, and make sure he gets one everyday! He sleeps on a mat in the floor by himself, and she said it is important for him to go to sleep by hisself, so he might cry a little BUT LET HIM!! she said she gives him a bottle and pulls the door closed. (we'll have to work on that)He fell asleep in my arms and it was so hot he was sweating, I was sweating and the foster mom said he doesn't like to be hot!! HE WILL FIT IN GREAT!!!! I can't fifure out a way to post pictures yet but will try later.
We haven't ventured out much today, we went for a walk and then it poured down rain the rest of the day. We bought a HUGE umbrella 5000 won ($5) We have a busy day today we are going to meet Young Dr. Kim at 11:30 have lunch with them at 12:00 Meet the old Dr. Kim at 1:30. We get to see Noah again on Friday at 2:00. I am going to ask if we can get him on Sunday because we have to leave for the airport at 7:30, but as of yesterday our social worker said Monday morning. We'll see.
We have been to the baby nursery here, it's SOOOO SAD. THAT IS WHERE I HAVE CRIED THE MOST. There is 61 babies and 4 workers. They are in 3 rooms, when we went in they put us to work, even Madison. They gave her a baby that just came in 1 hr before was born 5/15 and had heart surgery. If it rains a lot we are going to spend a lot of time there. There was a 1 year old, and the rest all under 5 months I think.
As for food, none of us are very hungry, but we went to pizza hut yesterday!! Our first meal in Korea (ha ha) It was 25000 won(about 25 dollars), but the pizza was a personal pan (that is there med) and we had a salad bar, but it wasn't lettuce it was fruits and all this different salads, like potato and some seafood I tried it was good it tasted like crab but didn't look like it and I didn't ask.
We met the other family with they 6 year old last night and they received their daughter we videod for them. They are leaving today. It was nice to meet them though, and put a face to their names.
Ok that's all I can think of right now, i will try to update more later, and figure out the pictures.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
We made it!!
We are here, we are very very tired. Getting ready to go to sleep. Our plane ride was long but fantastic! Madison did great, and so did Jamie! Will update more later. Oh...we meet Noah at 10:00 in the morning which will be 9 pm July 1 for you! I think.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
All our bags are packed, we're ready to go....
It's 11:30 Sunday night, and I can't go to sleep, I can not believe that when I get up in the morning we will be leaving for Korea, to bring home Noah. I have dreamt of this day for a long time...well and the day we come home.
Tonight is our last night in our home as a family of 3. I hope Madison adjusts ok to having a brother. I know she will be a great helper, but it is definitely going to be rough on her especially in the beginning. She has been the center of our attention for 6 years! I am sure she will still be, most of the time, we will just have to have two centers. =)
I was able to pack ALL of mine and Jamie's clothes into one suitcase, and we have a suitcase for Madison, and a LARGE suitcase full of gifts, and my carrier, and Noah's diaper bag, it will be empty once we get to Korea, which will allow us to fill it up with lots of goodies to bring home as well as anything we receive from Noah's foster mom.
Pray for us tomorrow, and this week, and mostly pray for Noah and his foster family. As wonderful of a time this is, it is going to be the hardest time for them.
Deuteronomy 32:11-12a
"So He spread His wings to take them up, and carried them safely. The Lord alone guided them."
Tonight is our last night in our home as a family of 3. I hope Madison adjusts ok to having a brother. I know she will be a great helper, but it is definitely going to be rough on her especially in the beginning. She has been the center of our attention for 6 years! I am sure she will still be, most of the time, we will just have to have two centers. =)
I was able to pack ALL of mine and Jamie's clothes into one suitcase, and we have a suitcase for Madison, and a LARGE suitcase full of gifts, and my carrier, and Noah's diaper bag, it will be empty once we get to Korea, which will allow us to fill it up with lots of goodies to bring home as well as anything we receive from Noah's foster mom.
Pray for us tomorrow, and this week, and mostly pray for Noah and his foster family. As wonderful of a time this is, it is going to be the hardest time for them.
Deuteronomy 32:11-12a
"So He spread His wings to take them up, and carried them safely. The Lord alone guided them."
Friday, June 27, 2008
Our Itinerary
We will be leaving on Monday June 30 at 1:30pm and arriving Tuesday July 1 at 5:00pm, and returning on Monday July 7 at 11:30am!
I can't believe that our wait is almost over. We will see Noah for the first time on Wednesday July 2, and most likely will have him forever on July 7! I am going to ask if we can have him on Friday, but normally the agency doesn't like for you to until you leave for the airport. They see it as getting one last good nights rest before the LONG plane ride home! I guess we will see what happens.
I just emailed our missionary friends who are in Korea, and we hope to see them on the weekend, and attend their church! What a great experience that will be!
I think Madison is a little sad that we will be in Korea for her birthday (the 5th) but we said we would do a party when we got settled back in at home. While we are in Korea we will probably have ice cream or something for her with the other family who RECEIVED THEIR CALL TODAY TOO!!! They also have a 6 year old daughter, and we feel very blessed that we will meet in Korea. God's timing is always perfect!
We are tenatively staying at Eastern's guesthouse, which will be great! We didn't think it would be available, but it turns out it is!
I plan to update this blog with thoughts and pictures, so please continue to check it out!
Please continue to keep us in your prayers this weekend and the next week as we travel and meet Noah YeongMin
Isaiah 24:15
"Therefore in the east give glory to the LORD; exalt the name of the LORD, the God of Israel, in the islands of the sea."
Isaiah 25:1
"O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago."
Psalm 136:1
"O give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His faithful love endures forever"
I can't believe that our wait is almost over. We will see Noah for the first time on Wednesday July 2, and most likely will have him forever on July 7! I am going to ask if we can have him on Friday, but normally the agency doesn't like for you to until you leave for the airport. They see it as getting one last good nights rest before the LONG plane ride home! I guess we will see what happens.
I just emailed our missionary friends who are in Korea, and we hope to see them on the weekend, and attend their church! What a great experience that will be!
I think Madison is a little sad that we will be in Korea for her birthday (the 5th) but we said we would do a party when we got settled back in at home. While we are in Korea we will probably have ice cream or something for her with the other family who RECEIVED THEIR CALL TODAY TOO!!! They also have a 6 year old daughter, and we feel very blessed that we will meet in Korea. God's timing is always perfect!
We are tenatively staying at Eastern's guesthouse, which will be great! We didn't think it would be available, but it turns out it is!
I plan to update this blog with thoughts and pictures, so please continue to check it out!
Please continue to keep us in your prayers this weekend and the next week as we travel and meet Noah YeongMin
Isaiah 24:15
"Therefore in the east give glory to the LORD; exalt the name of the LORD, the God of Israel, in the islands of the sea."
Isaiah 25:1
"O LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things, things planned long ago."
Psalm 136:1
"O give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His faithful love endures forever"
LEAVING ON A JET PLANE......
OUR AGENCY CALLED AT 7:03 THIS MORNING!! SHE SAID YOUR WAIT IS FINALLY OVER!!
I WILL UPDATE MORE WHEN I TALK TO OUR TRAVEL AGENT!!
I WILL UPDATE MORE WHEN I TALK TO OUR TRAVEL AGENT!!
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
All we are waiting on is a phone call.....
Noah YeongMin's VISA was issued today 6/25 (actually yesterday Korea time). All we are waiting on is a phone call to tell us we can come pick him up! Everything is approved, all i's are dotted and t's crossed, and no more hoops to go through! NORMALLY the phone call comes 1-2 days after the Visa is issued, sometimes it can take a little longer. I feel that such a HUGE weight has been lifted from my shoulders, as of right now I am ok. Now if the call doesn' t come in a few days it might get hard again, but I definitely know this is the last stretch. It's like my water has broke and now the labor pains are starting, and the end result is a beautiful little boy!
I am going to change our flights for tomorrow in the morning regardless, there is NO WAY I would have been ready to travel tomorrow anyway I still have so much left to do. However, IF we get a call tonight or tommorow morning I am going to reschedule it for Saturday, and we will still come home on the 3rd. If we don't have a call, I will probably schedule it for later next week, just to be on the safe side.
I will keep you updated. Still keep us in your prayers!
I am going to change our flights for tomorrow in the morning regardless, there is NO WAY I would have been ready to travel tomorrow anyway I still have so much left to do. However, IF we get a call tonight or tommorow morning I am going to reschedule it for Saturday, and we will still come home on the 3rd. If we don't have a call, I will probably schedule it for later next week, just to be on the safe side.
I will keep you updated. Still keep us in your prayers!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
The verse that will get me thru.....
Hebrews 11:1
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen.
This has been my favorite Bible verse our whole adoption process. Everytime I start to worry about something, God somehow shows this verse to me, to remind me to keep the faith.
A new week is about to begin, and still no travel call. On Friday I was hoping for good news when I called DC, but was told the same thing "P3 has been out since 6/3 and has not been returned". Another family did receive good news and has a visa interview Monday! I am so excited for them and know I could not be too far behind, but THIS weekend has been extremely hard on me.
On faith, I purchased plane tickets for Thursday, that's right, JUNE 26, in 5 days. They are direct flights, and the price was a few hundred dollars cheaper than the flights with layovers. Our travel agent had reserved the tickets 2 times, and the ticketing was due by Friday or we would have lost the seats. This is there peak season and any seats are pretty scarce. I did this also because of it being a direct flight, and since none of us has ever been in an airport, let alone fly, it would be the easiest on our family, and one less thing to worry about.
On faith, I am hoping for a visa interview or actual visa issuing on Monday, and then a travel call by Wednesday morning. If that doesn't happen I will change our flights to a later date, just not sure when. If there is no visa on Monday I can call and our travel agent will void the tickets, without a change fee.
Please keep us in your prayers the rest of the weekend, and this coming week, and pray that if it's God's will that we will be able to leave as planned on Thursday!
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen.
This has been my favorite Bible verse our whole adoption process. Everytime I start to worry about something, God somehow shows this verse to me, to remind me to keep the faith.
A new week is about to begin, and still no travel call. On Friday I was hoping for good news when I called DC, but was told the same thing "P3 has been out since 6/3 and has not been returned". Another family did receive good news and has a visa interview Monday! I am so excited for them and know I could not be too far behind, but THIS weekend has been extremely hard on me.
On faith, I purchased plane tickets for Thursday, that's right, JUNE 26, in 5 days. They are direct flights, and the price was a few hundred dollars cheaper than the flights with layovers. Our travel agent had reserved the tickets 2 times, and the ticketing was due by Friday or we would have lost the seats. This is there peak season and any seats are pretty scarce. I did this also because of it being a direct flight, and since none of us has ever been in an airport, let alone fly, it would be the easiest on our family, and one less thing to worry about.
On faith, I am hoping for a visa interview or actual visa issuing on Monday, and then a travel call by Wednesday morning. If that doesn't happen I will change our flights to a later date, just not sure when. If there is no visa on Monday I can call and our travel agent will void the tickets, without a change fee.
Please keep us in your prayers the rest of the weekend, and this coming week, and pray that if it's God's will that we will be able to leave as planned on Thursday!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
STILL WAITING...(NOT SO) PATIENTLY....
Just a quick update that we are still here in the US, STILL waiting on Noah's Visa Interview....It is driving us crazy. We so wanted to be there already. I know it is coming, and I know it is coming soon. I feel better today, than I have all week. I know that Noah is being taken care of, and is loved, and it's just a few extra days, maybe a week, it's not like it will be months longer.
And one thing I will never be able to give him is Korea. Sure I can take him back to visit one day, but it's not like he will grow up there. The time he is spending there now, even though he won't remember, is PRECIOUS. I hope his Foster family can remain a part of his life as well.
It will be a sad day for his family when he leaves. As much as I am looking forward to having him in my life forever, it will also be one of the hardest days I will go thru. I can't imagine how hard it will be for his foster mom.
Ecclesiastes 3:11
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
And one thing I will never be able to give him is Korea. Sure I can take him back to visit one day, but it's not like he will grow up there. The time he is spending there now, even though he won't remember, is PRECIOUS. I hope his Foster family can remain a part of his life as well.
It will be a sad day for his family when he leaves. As much as I am looking forward to having him in my life forever, it will also be one of the hardest days I will go thru. I can't imagine how hard it will be for his foster mom.
Ecclesiastes 3:11
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
Friday, June 13, 2008
3 months....
Today it has been 3 months since I first saw Noah YeongMin's sweet little face. I know I shouldn't complain, our adoption has fortunately went very smoothly, and quickly, I never thought we would be waiting to get our travel call at this point, back at the beginning of our process. At that time they were saying a 6-9 month wait for a referral, so I "should" still be waiting. Thank God I am not. I guess Noah was ready before I was. I think I was too stubborn in the beginning, and wanted to do our adoption MY way. Once I started letting God take control, He has made it clear that He know's what He is doing! I wish it was easier for me to sit back and not worry so much about when and how we will get Noah home. I keep looking up travel flights, putting in different dates, trying to find the best deal. Then I step back and remind myself that along with starting the process, getting our referral, and now our travel call. God knows all the dates. He already knows the date that Noah will join our family forever. He know's and has planned out our whole situation. Long before I ever did. So God, I am trying my best to give it all to you, and like everything else, know that YOU will work it out.
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
"God uses even the obstacles to bring you together with the child He has chosen at just the right moment in time."
We love you Noah YeongMin...We're coming soon!
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
"God uses even the obstacles to bring you together with the child He has chosen at just the right moment in time."
We love you Noah YeongMin...We're coming soon!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
The same set back x2....
Well, I woke up this morning and thought let me just check my email real quick, and sure enough I receive an email from the lady at our agency saying she just received the email confirmation I sent her yesterday that it went into her spam filter. AND SHE NEVER RECEIVED THE FAX!! I was sooooo upset. I sent her a reply that I was on my way to REFAX them. So now she does have them, and she FWD them to Korea, who I am praying they are working on our file as I am typing. Since they are 14 hours ahead of us, it is about noon Friday. MAYBE just MAYBE they are taking it to the Embassy today so they can give Noah his Visa, so he can finally come home.
On a more positive note, the other lady I talked about yesterday got the stuff she needed and our agency sent hers to Korea last night, so they have it and hopefully it will satisfy the Embassy, and she too will get her daughters Visa.
PLEASE keep us in your prayers!
On a more positive note, the other lady I talked about yesterday got the stuff she needed and our agency sent hers to Korea last night, so they have it and hopefully it will satisfy the Embassy, and she too will get her daughters Visa.
PLEASE keep us in your prayers!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Small Set back =(
I received an email early this morning, and unfortunately it wasn't our travel call. The lady at our agency said she received a notice that Korea needs our 2007 tax returns. When we sent our acceptance papers we hadn't filed our taxes for this year yet, so we just sent 2004-2006. Of course NOW they decide they need them. It's just one more hoop for us to go thru. I did fax them over right away so hopefully it won't be too much of a set back. On a positive note, it does mean they are working on our file. As I was doing a little research they need the tax forms for when they get Noah's Visa....SO if Korea receives them soon (I don't know if they can just fax them or email or if they have to send a hard copy) it shouldn't be long.
There is another family who we are praying we get to travel with who has a 6 year old daughter also, received the same notice today. Their tax situation is a little different, but please pray that it gets sorted out quickly also. We really want to travel together!
It doesn't look good though for a travel call this week, which might make it a little easier for me to deal with if I am not expecting it, so I am just going to get everything done this weekend and pack and be ready for a call next week.
Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers, this wait is getting really tough. Also Jamie is a little under the weather, please pray that he gets well soon. He is having a hard time with this wait as well.
I will continue to keep everyone updated.
There is another family who we are praying we get to travel with who has a 6 year old daughter also, received the same notice today. Their tax situation is a little different, but please pray that it gets sorted out quickly also. We really want to travel together!
It doesn't look good though for a travel call this week, which might make it a little easier for me to deal with if I am not expecting it, so I am just going to get everything done this weekend and pack and be ready for a call next week.
Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers, this wait is getting really tough. Also Jamie is a little under the weather, please pray that he gets well soon. He is having a hard time with this wait as well.
I will continue to keep everyone updated.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Week 10
Well we are in week 10 of our wait. This week has been extremely hard. I have been very emotional all week. On Saturday, I was listening to a song in Korean (actually the one listed on this blog) and it hit me that my little Noah is over in Korea, and doesn't have a clue that his life as he knows it is about to be turned completely upside down. He doesn't know that his foster family is temporary. He thinks he is in his FOREVER already. I was feeling torn with are we doing the right thing, taking him out of his birth country. That is something I will never be able to give him, I can try to expose him to his culture but it will not be the same. I think of what his foster mom is thinking these last few weeks, and how hard it will be for her to let him go, and his birth mom, does she even know that her son will be leaving Korea? I want him home so bad, my heart is (as another mom waiting for travel put it) is literally being ripped out of my chest and pulled around the world. It is aching for him, and yet breaking at what all he is going to go through. It saddens me to know that he will grieve so hard in the beginning and I won't be able to comfort him. He won't even be able to understand when I try to soothe him.
Then there is Madison, my tears were also for her. Her life too is about to change completely. It will be a hard transition for her, it would and is for most children who have been an only child for 6 years! I know she loves Noah, but I don't think she will like sharing the attention (especially from her daddy) She will be a great big sister though and we will try to make sure that she doesn't feel left out.
Noah is 8 1/2 months old today. That is 8 1/2 months that I have missed. That is 8 1/2 months that I will never get back. Sure I will have forever with him, but those months are special too. I hope his foster mom will be able to share as much as she can about his time with her.
There's still a chance to get our TC this week, but as the week progresses the chances don't seem as high. Still hoping for the end of the week, if not it will probably be the longest weekend of my life and pray that it will come the following week.
Regardless I know it will happen, the only question is when?!?!
Then there is Madison, my tears were also for her. Her life too is about to change completely. It will be a hard transition for her, it would and is for most children who have been an only child for 6 years! I know she loves Noah, but I don't think she will like sharing the attention (especially from her daddy) She will be a great big sister though and we will try to make sure that she doesn't feel left out.
Noah is 8 1/2 months old today. That is 8 1/2 months that I have missed. That is 8 1/2 months that I will never get back. Sure I will have forever with him, but those months are special too. I hope his foster mom will be able to share as much as she can about his time with her.
There's still a chance to get our TC this week, but as the week progresses the chances don't seem as high. Still hoping for the end of the week, if not it will probably be the longest weekend of my life and pray that it will come the following week.
Regardless I know it will happen, the only question is when?!?!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
P3 has left the Embassy!
Not that anyone really knows what that means....Our agency even says it doesn't exist. But whatever doesn't exist (called P3 or packet 3) has left the Embassy in Seoul and is on it's way to our agency in Korea (Eastern) Once they receive it they compile all Noah's stuff with the Packet 3 and send it back, then Noah receives his Visa, and they let us know he is ready to come home. The rest of this process could be as little as 7 days or up to a few weeks. I am thinking about 10 days, but that could just be me being hopeful! All I know is I am 99.9% certain that *THIS* is our month! We have 2 tentative flight arrangements one is on the 13th which I don't think we will be able to use, and the other is on the 21st. Which is a definate possibility. We haven't purchased them they are just holding the seats for the time being. Apparently the week of the 15th is a VERY popular time to fly to Seoul, who would have guessed it.
Well we will keep you updated, and please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers, especially for the needed funds, (Jamie has a potential buyer for his bike, we will know tomorrow)
Noah---We are coming soon!!
Well we will keep you updated, and please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers, especially for the needed funds, (Jamie has a potential buyer for his bike, we will know tomorrow)
Noah---We are coming soon!!
Friday, May 30, 2008
My baby girl is growing up.....
Madison is officially done with Kindergarten. Today was her last day of school, I can't believe how quickly the year has flown by. It seems like yesterday I was dropping her off for her first day, and me crying like a baby as I drove away. Knowing that I set her out into this great big world alone (well away from me for 7 hrs a day), and rely solely on God to protect her. Thankfully He has.
I also have been thinking alot about Maria Sue Chapman, Christian singer/songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman's 5 year old daughter who was adopted from China, passed away in a terrible accident, you can read about it here
http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/inmemoryofmaria/
Her brother was backing down their driveway and ran her over. My heart just breaks for their family and has since I heard of this terrible accident. Their testimony/story back in November of 2006 is what sprouted the seed that had been planted in my heart about adoption.
We take so much for granted and you really never know from one moment til the next what our life has in store. We need to hug our children today, and be thankful that we are blessed to have every single minute we have with them. That tragedy makes me realize every moment is important.
I also have been thinking alot about Maria Sue Chapman, Christian singer/songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman's 5 year old daughter who was adopted from China, passed away in a terrible accident, you can read about it here
http://chapmanchannel.typepad.com/inmemoryofmaria/
Her brother was backing down their driveway and ran her over. My heart just breaks for their family and has since I heard of this terrible accident. Their testimony/story back in November of 2006 is what sprouted the seed that had been planted in my heart about adoption.
We take so much for granted and you really never know from one moment til the next what our life has in store. We need to hug our children today, and be thankful that we are blessed to have every single minute we have with them. That tragedy makes me realize every moment is important.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Bible verse for this week.
Philippians 4:6
Do not worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
I just read this bible verse on another blog and it really stirred my heart. I have been worrying about the cost of our flights and now we'll have to pay for a hotel (the guesthouse will most likely be full) and how we are going to come up with the rest of our travel money. Jamie is trying to sell his motorcycle and we thought we had a buyer, but turns out we don't.
Not to mention the timing, if we get our travel call in a few weeks (which I WOULD LOVE) but that only leaves us 1 payday each. Or if we don't have our travel call then we will have another payday, but the circumstances won't be as great for my time away from work.
Anyway, that verse reminded me that God is in control of this situation, and He will take care of all our needs. We have been listening to His voice this whole time, and He will work it out for His glory. Also, I need to be thankful for ALL He has given me so far....My life, my salvation, Jamie, Madison, Noah, my family, a smooth, and quick adoption process. My health, my friends, my job, our church family, my freedom, which allows me to openly serve Him, and attend the church I want. I do have SO much to be thankful for.....
Do not worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
I just read this bible verse on another blog and it really stirred my heart. I have been worrying about the cost of our flights and now we'll have to pay for a hotel (the guesthouse will most likely be full) and how we are going to come up with the rest of our travel money. Jamie is trying to sell his motorcycle and we thought we had a buyer, but turns out we don't.
Not to mention the timing, if we get our travel call in a few weeks (which I WOULD LOVE) but that only leaves us 1 payday each. Or if we don't have our travel call then we will have another payday, but the circumstances won't be as great for my time away from work.
Anyway, that verse reminded me that God is in control of this situation, and He will take care of all our needs. We have been listening to His voice this whole time, and He will work it out for His glory. Also, I need to be thankful for ALL He has given me so far....My life, my salvation, Jamie, Madison, Noah, my family, a smooth, and quick adoption process. My health, my friends, my job, our church family, my freedom, which allows me to openly serve Him, and attend the church I want. I do have SO much to be thankful for.....
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Logged IN/OUT!!!
Well we're two steps closer. We were logged into the National Visa Center 5/21 and logged out 5/23! They forwarded everything to the Embassy in Seoul. Only 2 more steps until we get our Travel Call. Still praying for a mid June call! Will keep everyone updated!
Monday, May 19, 2008
PRAISE THE LORD!!!
we received our I 600 approval today from the US Citizenship and Immigration department! That form is the last approval we needed on our (US) side. It's the petition to clasify and orphan as an immediate relative.
What that means is that they forwarded it to the National Visa Center, and the Embassy in Seoul to get Noah's visa and immigration permit ready for him to come to the US.
The lady at our agency said to expect a travel call in about 4 weeks! Which is right at the time I have been praying about! I would LOVE to be able to leave on 6/15 Father's Day! I will definately keep you updated as our time nears!
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers that the Korea side of things continues to go quickly and smoothly!!
What that means is that they forwarded it to the National Visa Center, and the Embassy in Seoul to get Noah's visa and immigration permit ready for him to come to the US.
The lady at our agency said to expect a travel call in about 4 weeks! Which is right at the time I have been praying about! I would LOVE to be able to leave on 6/15 Father's Day! I will definately keep you updated as our time nears!
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers that the Korea side of things continues to go quickly and smoothly!!
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Verse for the week 5/19!
Hebrews 11:1
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen.
히브리서 11:1
믿음은 바라는 것들의 실상이요 보지 못하는 것들의 증거니
Well this verse keeps jumping out at me, 3 times this weekend I have seen it at different places and different times. I hope it brings everyone who reads it (along with myself) comfort! Have a great week, and I hope I will be reporting our I600 approval by the end of the week. Please keep us in your prayers!
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen.
히브리서 11:1
믿음은 바라는 것들의 실상이요 보지 못하는 것들의 증거니
Well this verse keeps jumping out at me, 3 times this weekend I have seen it at different places and different times. I hope it brings everyone who reads it (along with myself) comfort! Have a great week, and I hope I will be reporting our I600 approval by the end of the week. Please keep us in your prayers!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Verse for the day.
Isaiah 55:8-9
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
This verse really helped me feel a little better the other night. I was reading my bible and came across it. It reminded me that even though I think I know what's best, GOD'S timing is always perfect, and his plans are always greater than my own, and no matter what I think is best for me, He knows far more than I.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
This verse really helped me feel a little better the other night. I was reading my bible and came across it. It reminded me that even though I think I know what's best, GOD'S timing is always perfect, and his plans are always greater than my own, and no matter what I think is best for me, He knows far more than I.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
We interupt this blog for.....
A pity party! Today has been a really hard day for me. Not sure why, maybe its because my sister had her baby yesterday, and when I held my nephew I felt the ache in my own soul, that Noah's not here, and doesn't even know how much I want him home. Maybe it's because this Mother's Day I felt that a piece of my heart is missing, (or in Korea). I just want to have Noah home so I can hold him, and feel his little heart beating against mine and not have to worry so much.
Or maybe it is all the horrible stuff going on in this world right now, and I can't even attempt to protect my son. That horrible earthquake in China was felt all the way to Pakistan and VietNam. There is an outbreak of Bird Flu in Seoul right now, and they think there have been terrorist attacks in India today. I could go on and on.
I understand that I brought this on myself, I mean I didn't HAVE to adopt, I chose it. (Or well we feel that God chose it for us!) But regardless, adoption isn't for sissy's. It is the hardest thing I have ever had to go thru in my life, (and that includes childbirth!) A friend of mine said that I need to think of Noah not being home like being pregnant and it isn't time for him to be born yet BUT the difference is he is here already and in this horrible world. He is not being kept safe like a child in the womb.
Seeing his picture the other day was bittersweet, I am so thankful that we received it. And seeing him in that outfit that we sent him, that I touched, and picked out for him, and knowing he got the pictures of us, and a blankie that I slept with and had my perfume on it is overwhelming. Just knowing that he is touching something that I touched makes me feel a little closer to him. I knew going into this, that this part of the wait would be hard, but knowing it and feeling it are completely different.
Added to all of that and we still don't have our I 600 approval from the US Dept of Citizenship and Immigration. This Friday will be 6 weeks. =( If I don't have it by Memorial Day, then most likely we won't get to travel mid June like I had hoped. We have to have that approval BEFORE Korea can finish it's side of things. That is an added stresser, because although we have found help to cover for me at work while I am gone, I was hoping that it would fall during our vacation days so I wouldn't be gone as long and make it easier on my co-worker. The guilt of being off work vs. taking the time that Noah needs, (and I need) to adjust, bond, and attach is hard also. I know I am blessed that he will get to be with me all the time at work, but it is different than being at home. Ok attachment will have to be another post. At a later date.
Hopefully my next post will bring more positive news.
Ecclesiastes 7:8
The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is
better than pride.
Psalm 37:7-9
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret
when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret--it leads only to
evil. For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will
inherit the land.
Psalm 40:1
I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.
Or maybe it is all the horrible stuff going on in this world right now, and I can't even attempt to protect my son. That horrible earthquake in China was felt all the way to Pakistan and VietNam. There is an outbreak of Bird Flu in Seoul right now, and they think there have been terrorist attacks in India today. I could go on and on.
I understand that I brought this on myself, I mean I didn't HAVE to adopt, I chose it. (Or well we feel that God chose it for us!) But regardless, adoption isn't for sissy's. It is the hardest thing I have ever had to go thru in my life, (and that includes childbirth!) A friend of mine said that I need to think of Noah not being home like being pregnant and it isn't time for him to be born yet BUT the difference is he is here already and in this horrible world. He is not being kept safe like a child in the womb.
Seeing his picture the other day was bittersweet, I am so thankful that we received it. And seeing him in that outfit that we sent him, that I touched, and picked out for him, and knowing he got the pictures of us, and a blankie that I slept with and had my perfume on it is overwhelming. Just knowing that he is touching something that I touched makes me feel a little closer to him. I knew going into this, that this part of the wait would be hard, but knowing it and feeling it are completely different.
Added to all of that and we still don't have our I 600 approval from the US Dept of Citizenship and Immigration. This Friday will be 6 weeks. =( If I don't have it by Memorial Day, then most likely we won't get to travel mid June like I had hoped. We have to have that approval BEFORE Korea can finish it's side of things. That is an added stresser, because although we have found help to cover for me at work while I am gone, I was hoping that it would fall during our vacation days so I wouldn't be gone as long and make it easier on my co-worker. The guilt of being off work vs. taking the time that Noah needs, (and I need) to adjust, bond, and attach is hard also. I know I am blessed that he will get to be with me all the time at work, but it is different than being at home. Ok attachment will have to be another post. At a later date.
Hopefully my next post will bring more positive news.
Ecclesiastes 7:8
The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is
better than pride.
Psalm 37:7-9
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret
when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.
Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret--it leads only to
evil. For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will
inherit the land.
Psalm 40:1
I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Early Mother's Day Present!
We got an updated picture of Noah today! I am just floating on cloud nine! He is so cute, and he's wearing the outfit that we sent over. My heart is just swelling....And check out his hair!! ANyway will post more later.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
SOLD!!!Beautiful Asian Print bedding set for sale!
I couldn't post this on the bb so thought I would try here, if anyone is interested Please let me know, I prefer paypal =)
Blue Dragonfly also new and still in package:
It is a 10 piece set
Comforter,
bumper,
pillow,
fitted sheet,
dust ruffle,
2 window valances,
diaper stacker,
toy bag, and
baby bib.
I would like $75 and shipping is included!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
NEW BLOG SONG
Notice the NEW song I put up to the right there >>>>
It's sung in Korean but wanted to let you know what the words are in English.
You were born to be Loved (A Korean worship song)
You were born to be loved
Within your life, you've been receiving His love
You were born to be loved
Within your life, you've been receiving His love
The love of God has began since creation
And has connected with us through our fellowship
Because of your existence in this world
We share this great joy among us
You were born to be loved
Even now you are receiving His great love
You were born to be loved
Even now you are receiving His great love
Such simple words, yet a touching heart wenching song....
We love you Noah, and you were born to be LOVED!!
It's sung in Korean but wanted to let you know what the words are in English.
You were born to be Loved (A Korean worship song)
You were born to be loved
Within your life, you've been receiving His love
You were born to be loved
Within your life, you've been receiving His love
The love of God has began since creation
And has connected with us through our fellowship
Because of your existence in this world
We share this great joy among us
You were born to be loved
Even now you are receiving His great love
You were born to be loved
Even now you are receiving His great love
Such simple words, yet a touching heart wenching song....
We love you Noah, and you were born to be LOVED!!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Verse for today.
It's a new day, and one day closer to bringing home Noah.
Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
로마서 12
소망 중에 즐거워하며 환난 중에 참으며 기도에 항상 힘쓰며
Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
로마서 12
소망 중에 즐거워하며 환난 중에 참으며 기도에 항상 힘쓰며
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Stomach Flu =(
We received an update on Noah today, but it wasn't great news. He has been sick and was in the hospital from 4/2 until 4/8. =( He had Acute Gastroenteritis. Which is a "long, and potentially lethal bout of stomach flu." Apparently he got dehydrated, poor little guy. I assume he is doing better now.
It did give us a weight update. He is 17.8 pounds! I think that was when he went to the hospital so he might have lost a little since then.
When I first read the update I immediately felt sick. To think that MY son was so sick and was put in the hospital, and here I am halfway around the world, not even knowing anything about it until today. It just kills me.
I realize that they tend to be overly cautious in Korea with their babies and I am thankful for that, and chances are if he were home he wouldn't have been admitted to the hospital at all, but still, the thought of him being there breaks my heart. And I don't know if his foster mother was able to stay with him, and to think that he was there, hurting and not having anyone with him makes it worse.
I want him home so badly. My heart is just aching to hold him. There is an emptiness inside of me that I can't explain. I know that we are just in the beginning stages of the wait to pick him up, and I know it will only get worse. I am praying daily for patience.
I know that God is watching over Noah, and everything will happen in His perfect timing.
Psalm 20:4 (NLT)
May He grant your hearts desire and fulfill all your plans.
Psalm 138:8 (NLT)
The Lord will work out His plans for my life-for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.
시편 20:4
네 마음의 소원대로 허락하시고 네 모든 도모를 이루시기를 원하노라
시편 138:8
여호와께서 내게 관계된 것을 완전케 하실지라 여호와여, 주의 인자하심이 영원하오니 주의 손으로 지으신 것을 버리지 마옵소서
God Speed Little Man
Sweet Dreams Little Man
Oh My Love Will Fly
To You Each Night
On Angels Wings
God Speed Sweet Dreams
It did give us a weight update. He is 17.8 pounds! I think that was when he went to the hospital so he might have lost a little since then.
When I first read the update I immediately felt sick. To think that MY son was so sick and was put in the hospital, and here I am halfway around the world, not even knowing anything about it until today. It just kills me.
I realize that they tend to be overly cautious in Korea with their babies and I am thankful for that, and chances are if he were home he wouldn't have been admitted to the hospital at all, but still, the thought of him being there breaks my heart. And I don't know if his foster mother was able to stay with him, and to think that he was there, hurting and not having anyone with him makes it worse.
I want him home so badly. My heart is just aching to hold him. There is an emptiness inside of me that I can't explain. I know that we are just in the beginning stages of the wait to pick him up, and I know it will only get worse. I am praying daily for patience.
I know that God is watching over Noah, and everything will happen in His perfect timing.
Psalm 20:4 (NLT)
May He grant your hearts desire and fulfill all your plans.
Psalm 138:8 (NLT)
The Lord will work out His plans for my life-for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.
시편 20:4
네 마음의 소원대로 허락하시고 네 모든 도모를 이루시기를 원하노라
시편 138:8
여호와께서 내게 관계된 것을 완전케 하실지라 여호와여, 주의 인자하심이 영원하오니 주의 손으로 지으신 것을 버리지 마옵소서
God Speed Little Man
Sweet Dreams Little Man
Oh My Love Will Fly
To You Each Night
On Angels Wings
God Speed Sweet Dreams
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Well, another quick update on us. Our acceptance papers went to Korea on April 3, 2008. That is the date that we officially started "waiting" for our travel call.
Estimated wait time is currently 10-14 weeks. Our agency also already had the legals from Korea, so our I600 was sent to the USCIS on the same date. We are now is waiting on our I600 approval, which is averaging 4-6 weeks. Then it goes to the Korean government where they have to get the baby's paperwork ready. Which typically takes another 4-6 weeks. There are ways we can track the progress on the Korean side once we have our approval, but I will update more on how to do that later.
I still can't believe that we have a son, that is on the other side of the world, who doesn't know yet that he is loved so dearly, and yet we've never even held him.
Noah we'll be there soon!
Estimated wait time is currently 10-14 weeks. Our agency also already had the legals from Korea, so our I600 was sent to the USCIS on the same date. We are now is waiting on our I600 approval, which is averaging 4-6 weeks. Then it goes to the Korean government where they have to get the baby's paperwork ready. Which typically takes another 4-6 weeks. There are ways we can track the progress on the Korean side once we have our approval, but I will update more on how to do that later.
I still can't believe that we have a son, that is on the other side of the world, who doesn't know yet that he is loved so dearly, and yet we've never even held him.
Noah we'll be there soon!
REFERRAL!!! 3/13
March 15, 2008
Well on Thursday March 13, 2008. I received a phone call from our social worker that they had a potential referral for us! She called at 1:19 pm, I was not expecting a referral call because on 3-12 we were just number 3 on the list, needless to say I was ecstatic! I called Jamie at work at he left and came over to my work and we opened up his file on the computer.
It’s hard to describe exactly how I was feeling. I was so excited for us, yet was grieving at his story. How hard is must have been for his birth mother to make an adoption plan. My heart just broke for her, and at the same time was swelling with love for my son that I have yet to hold in my arms.
He was born on September 26, 2007. His name in Korean in Noh, Yeong Min. (Pronounced like No ah ye ong meen.) Noh is his family name (they say it first) and Yeong Min means "WISE JADE" .
We are going to name him NOAH YeongMin Our Last Name. He is VERY CHUNKY.....definately has MY CHIPMUNK CHEEKS lol. We fell in love immediately. Even before we saw his picture.
NOW for the good stuff....
I was thinking back to September 25, (remember they are 14 hours ahead of us) and what I was doing....well, written on my calender it said.....It was the orientation meeting I went to at the adoption agency. The very first one. If you look back on my old blogs I talk about it. It was then that I received the application that I brought home and we mailed on Oct. 1! Who would have thought that while I was gathering the information on adoption, our son was being born!
Then, some of you might know this story. Madison was born on July 5, and they always have a hot air balloon rally here for July 4. So the morning that I went in to labor as we were driving to the hospital it was beautiful because as we were coming into town there were hot air balloons in the air leaving. WELL, yesterday morning on my way to work (same route) there was....you guessed it ONE hot air balloon in the sky! I told a parent when I got to work about how seeing the balloons always makes me think of the day Madison was born. Again, who would have thought that on the day I’ve seen both of my childrens faces for the first time, Hot air balloons would be in the sky, and one of them in MARCH! It’s a little chilly here still!
Those things might not mean much to most people, but it sure did give us PEACE in knowing that we are getting the child that was meant to be ours.
NOAH means PEACEFUL in Hebrew!
GOD TRULY IS AMAZING!!
We can’t post pictures until we sign formal acceptance papers early next week, and once they are signed we will travel in about 3 months to pick him up FOREVER!!
PSALM 139: 13-16
For you created my inmost being you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth your eyes saw my unformed body All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
시편 139
13주께서 내 장부를 지으시며 나의 모태에서 나를 조직하셨나이다
14 내가 주께 감사하옴은 나를 지으심이 신묘막측하심이라 주의 행사가 기이함을 내 영혼이 잘 아나이다
15 내가 은밀한 데서 지음을 받고 땅의 깊은 곳에서 기이하게 지음을 받은 때에 나의 형체가 주의 앞에 숨기우지 못하였나이다
16 내 형질이 이루기 전에 주의 눈이 보셨으며 나를 위하여 정한 날이 하나도 되기 전에 주의 책에 다 기록이 되었나이다
Well on Thursday March 13, 2008. I received a phone call from our social worker that they had a potential referral for us! She called at 1:19 pm, I was not expecting a referral call because on 3-12 we were just number 3 on the list, needless to say I was ecstatic! I called Jamie at work at he left and came over to my work and we opened up his file on the computer.
It’s hard to describe exactly how I was feeling. I was so excited for us, yet was grieving at his story. How hard is must have been for his birth mother to make an adoption plan. My heart just broke for her, and at the same time was swelling with love for my son that I have yet to hold in my arms.
He was born on September 26, 2007. His name in Korean in Noh, Yeong Min. (Pronounced like No ah ye ong meen.) Noh is his family name (they say it first) and Yeong Min means "WISE JADE" .
We are going to name him NOAH YeongMin Our Last Name. He is VERY CHUNKY.....definately has MY CHIPMUNK CHEEKS lol. We fell in love immediately. Even before we saw his picture.
NOW for the good stuff....
I was thinking back to September 25, (remember they are 14 hours ahead of us) and what I was doing....well, written on my calender it said.....It was the orientation meeting I went to at the adoption agency. The very first one. If you look back on my old blogs I talk about it. It was then that I received the application that I brought home and we mailed on Oct. 1! Who would have thought that while I was gathering the information on adoption, our son was being born!
Then, some of you might know this story. Madison was born on July 5, and they always have a hot air balloon rally here for July 4. So the morning that I went in to labor as we were driving to the hospital it was beautiful because as we were coming into town there were hot air balloons in the air leaving. WELL, yesterday morning on my way to work (same route) there was....you guessed it ONE hot air balloon in the sky! I told a parent when I got to work about how seeing the balloons always makes me think of the day Madison was born. Again, who would have thought that on the day I’ve seen both of my childrens faces for the first time, Hot air balloons would be in the sky, and one of them in MARCH! It’s a little chilly here still!
Those things might not mean much to most people, but it sure did give us PEACE in knowing that we are getting the child that was meant to be ours.
NOAH means PEACEFUL in Hebrew!
GOD TRULY IS AMAZING!!
We can’t post pictures until we sign formal acceptance papers early next week, and once they are signed we will travel in about 3 months to pick him up FOREVER!!
PSALM 139: 13-16
For you created my inmost being you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth your eyes saw my unformed body All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
시편 139
13주께서 내 장부를 지으시며 나의 모태에서 나를 조직하셨나이다
14 내가 주께 감사하옴은 나를 지으심이 신묘막측하심이라 주의 행사가 기이함을 내 영혼이 잘 아나이다
15 내가 은밀한 데서 지음을 받고 땅의 깊은 곳에서 기이하게 지음을 받은 때에 나의 형체가 주의 앞에 숨기우지 못하였나이다
16 내 형질이 이루기 전에 주의 눈이 보셨으며 나를 위하여 정한 날이 하나도 되기 전에 주의 책에 다 기록이 되었나이다
Quick Update
March 12, 2008
Just a quick update:
We received from the US Department of Homeland Security, our I 600A approval (I 171H) that states we are approved to adopt a child from Korea!! (This is what we were fingerprinted for back in Feb)
And we moved up to NUMBER 3 on the waiting list!!!
Come on STORK.....and fly a little faster!!! =)
Just a quick update:
We received from the US Department of Homeland Security, our I 600A approval (I 171H) that states we are approved to adopt a child from Korea!! (This is what we were fingerprinted for back in Feb)
And we moved up to NUMBER 3 on the waiting list!!!
Come on STORK.....and fly a little faster!!! =)
Friday, February 29, 2008
BITTERSWEET
Well this weekend was not one I want to remember, my grandpa died unexpectedly on Friday February 22, 2008. My birthday was February 23. Not a very good one this year. =(
In light of all the sadness though we got word that we have moved up to number 4 on the waiting list!
Hopefully March will be the month for us to see our sweet baby's face! I know that my Grandpa will be watching over him for us until we get him!
I'll miss you PeePaw. I love you!
Jessica
"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." - Psalm 30:5
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." –Psalm 34:18
In light of all the sadness though we got word that we have moved up to number 4 on the waiting list!
Hopefully March will be the month for us to see our sweet baby's face! I know that my Grandpa will be watching over him for us until we get him!
I'll miss you PeePaw. I love you!
Jessica
"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." - Psalm 30:5
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." –Psalm 34:18
Kisses In The Wind
February 10, 2007
Quick update: We have moved up a little on the waiting list. The last time I heard anything we were now 7! That was a few weeks ago. (All offices in Korea were closed most of last week due to the Lunar New Year! Welcome year of the RAT! Most likely our baby was born last year which was the year of the PIG!)
The WAIT is getting very hard and it has only been a month. I think part of what makes it hard is really any moment we could be getting a phone call letting us know that we have been matched, and everyday that goes by that we aren't makes me really SAD :( I KNOW our baby is over in KOREA right now, most likely about 4-5 months old and I wonder What is he like? What is he doing? Is he crying? Does he have enough to eat? Is he being LOVED?? My heart just aches everyday for HIM. I know that since this wait is SO hard already, I can't imagine the wait once we have a picture of him and have to wait 3-4 months to go get him. I know it is going to just kill me, but once I have him in my arms it will all be worth it.
Will continue to update.....
KISSES IN THE WIND
I hold you in my heart and touch you in my dreams.
You are here each day with me, at least that's how it seems.
I know you wonder where we are... what's taking us so long
.But remember child, I love you so and God will keep you strong.
Now go outside and feel the breeze and let it touch your skin...
Because tonight, just as always, I blow you kisses in the wind.
May God hold you in His hand until I can be with you.
I promise you, my darling, I'm doing all that I can do.
Very soon, you'll have a family for real, not just pretend.
But for tonight, just as always, I blow you kisses in the wind.
May God wrap you in His arms and hold you very tight.
And let the angels bring the kisses that I send to you each night.
--- Unknown
Quick update: We have moved up a little on the waiting list. The last time I heard anything we were now 7! That was a few weeks ago. (All offices in Korea were closed most of last week due to the Lunar New Year! Welcome year of the RAT! Most likely our baby was born last year which was the year of the PIG!)
The WAIT is getting very hard and it has only been a month. I think part of what makes it hard is really any moment we could be getting a phone call letting us know that we have been matched, and everyday that goes by that we aren't makes me really SAD :( I KNOW our baby is over in KOREA right now, most likely about 4-5 months old and I wonder What is he like? What is he doing? Is he crying? Does he have enough to eat? Is he being LOVED?? My heart just aches everyday for HIM. I know that since this wait is SO hard already, I can't imagine the wait once we have a picture of him and have to wait 3-4 months to go get him. I know it is going to just kill me, but once I have him in my arms it will all be worth it.
Will continue to update.....
KISSES IN THE WIND
I hold you in my heart and touch you in my dreams.
You are here each day with me, at least that's how it seems.
I know you wonder where we are... what's taking us so long
.But remember child, I love you so and God will keep you strong.
Now go outside and feel the breeze and let it touch your skin...
Because tonight, just as always, I blow you kisses in the wind.
May God hold you in His hand until I can be with you.
I promise you, my darling, I'm doing all that I can do.
Very soon, you'll have a family for real, not just pretend.
But for tonight, just as always, I blow you kisses in the wind.
May God wrap you in His arms and hold you very tight.
And let the angels bring the kisses that I send to you each night.
--- Unknown
Adoption Update
January 13, 2008
Ok now that I have a few minutes I thought I would update a little more on the adoption. We finished our homestudy Friday December 14. Our SW came to our house and inspected it and spoke to Madison. WE PASSED!!!! She then had to write a report approving us for international adoption, and send it to our placing agency, US Department of Citizenship and Immigration Services-USCIS (Dept of Homeland Security), and to us! We are APPROVED for a healthy child or TWINS, of either gender from 0-18 months old from KOREA!!!!
Our placing agency received our homestudy and approved us for international adoption.
AS OF JANUARY 9, 2008 WE ARE OFFICIALLY IN THE WAITING POOL AND ARE NUMBER 8 ON THE LIST FOR A LITTLE BOY!!!! (NUMBER 30+ ON THE LIST FOR A GIRL-SO CHANCES ARE WE WILL GET A BOY, AND THATS FINE WITH US!!) The lady in charge of Korea said we now just sit back and wait- they will call us when we are matched probably in about 1 to 2 MONTHS!!!! (alot sooner then we thought-although it does have the potential to get longer)
When we are matched (get our referral) we will get a picture along with any background information that's available, and a medical report. The baby will be approximately 5-6 months old. We then review it and have a doctor review it and send in our acceptance letter. (The only way you can turn down a referral is for a medical problem that you aren't comfortable with.)
We then fill out more paperwork and wait for the travel call about 3 months later. The baby will be about 9 months old.
We are now waiting to get fingerprinted for Dept of Homeland Security so that they too can approve us, this process takes about 8 weeks from the time you are fingerprinted-we haven't yet.
Ok now that I have a few minutes I thought I would update a little more on the adoption. We finished our homestudy Friday December 14. Our SW came to our house and inspected it and spoke to Madison. WE PASSED!!!! She then had to write a report approving us for international adoption, and send it to our placing agency, US Department of Citizenship and Immigration Services-USCIS (Dept of Homeland Security), and to us! We are APPROVED for a healthy child or TWINS, of either gender from 0-18 months old from KOREA!!!!
Our placing agency received our homestudy and approved us for international adoption.
AS OF JANUARY 9, 2008 WE ARE OFFICIALLY IN THE WAITING POOL AND ARE NUMBER 8 ON THE LIST FOR A LITTLE BOY!!!! (NUMBER 30+ ON THE LIST FOR A GIRL-SO CHANCES ARE WE WILL GET A BOY, AND THATS FINE WITH US!!) The lady in charge of Korea said we now just sit back and wait- they will call us when we are matched probably in about 1 to 2 MONTHS!!!! (alot sooner then we thought-although it does have the potential to get longer)
When we are matched (get our referral) we will get a picture along with any background information that's available, and a medical report. The baby will be approximately 5-6 months old. We then review it and have a doctor review it and send in our acceptance letter. (The only way you can turn down a referral is for a medical problem that you aren't comfortable with.)
We then fill out more paperwork and wait for the travel call about 3 months later. The baby will be about 9 months old.
We are now waiting to get fingerprinted for Dept of Homeland Security so that they too can approve us, this process takes about 8 weeks from the time you are fingerprinted-we haven't yet.
ON THE LIST!!!
January 11, 2008
Well Just have time for a quick adoption update!!
WE ARE OFFICIALLY ON THE WAITING LIST!!! TECHNICALLY CALLED THE WAITING POOL!!! HAVE LOTS MORE INFO BUT I WILL POST IT LATER!!!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT IS REALLY GOING TO HAPPEN........YAY YAY YAY
Well Just have time for a quick adoption update!!
WE ARE OFFICIALLY ON THE WAITING LIST!!! TECHNICALLY CALLED THE WAITING POOL!!! HAVE LOTS MORE INFO BUT I WILL POST IT LATER!!!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT IS REALLY GOING TO HAPPEN........YAY YAY YAY
Love Without Boundaries
December 17, 2007
I wanted to share this by Amy Eldridge from the "Love Without Boundaries" blog...
love without boundaries
This weekend I took my six year old daughter to see the Nutcracker for the very first time. It was in downtown Oklahoma City, and all the lights were twinkling around the square. Anna put on her red holiday dress and was beyond excited. As we walked into the music hall and we saw the 40 foot high tree, and all the beautiful decorations, I caught myself once again thinking about all the children who at that very moment were sleeping in barren cribs, with no heat. I do this to myself all the time, and I vowed that tonight I would NOT think about orphaned children, and I would just enjoy the evening. And so I looked around at all the happy families, and everyone had on holiday clothes, and the little girls were all dressed up for their night at the ballet. (I will not think of orphans.....I will not think of orphans........... ) and then a woman walked in with her daughter and I broke that vow for the millionth time. Her little girl was an absolute vision. She had on a floor length velvet gown, with an underskirt that caused her dress to swirl out around her. She had on a white fur coat, and her mom had curled her blonde hair into hundreds of ringlets. And on the top of her head she had a diamond tiara. I think it was the tiara that brought the tears. And not because it was expensive, but because this mom had obviously spent so much time lovingly getting her little girl ready for a very special night out. I could just envision her bringing out the princess crown and saying, "THIS is a magical night and you deserve to look like a queen." They were laughing and holding hands, and as they walked up the grand staircase it hit me once again full in my heart the disparity that exists in the world with children. Why are some children born to be treasured and others are born to know only pain? How many children in the world NEVER have a momma to do their hair and tell them, "today is a SPECIAL day." Sometimes I think I must be crazy.....and I will look around me to see if it looks like anyone else in the room is feeling like this. Is it normal to cry when your little boy steps up to homeplate, knowing that so many children around the world will never have that simple pleasure? Is it normal to go to the park and have to choke back tears watching children just enjoy the tiny thrill that comes from being able to play outside or zoom down a slide? Oh I hope so....because that is my normal now. I so want to give my own children a feeling of JOY this season. But I find my head has two thoughts running at the exact same time every moment of the day. Mom, can we bake cookies? *** 13 new babies are critical and we have nowhere to put them. Mrs. Eldridge, can you send treats for the holiday party? ***** She has severe heart disease and might have lung damage. Mom, can we go see Narnia? ***** Do you have the funds to help us? She is so sick and we feel she needs to be in the hospital. Mom, where are my band shoes? **** If we can build this school they have a chance to learn to read and rise above their poverty. Where shall we hang the ornaments? ***** I am sorry but he passed away......he was just too sick when we found him. Can you take us shopping for gifts? ***** She was left weighing just 2 kg, she needs to move immediately to the hospital, do we have the funds? The other night I turned off my computer and sat down to watch the ending of Lord of the Rings: Return of the King. I remember when I first saw it (pre-China), and I thought that they should have ended the movie when Aragon turns to Frodo with the glorious backdrop of the mountains and castle and says "you kneel to no man". After that the movie goes back to the Hobbit's shire and I remember not really liking the way it was wrapped up....I wanted the GRAND ending. :-) So this time I was watching it and I jokingly said to my husband, "maybe we should just stop it at the scene with Aragon and not watch the rest." But of course we kept going, and then Frodo said something that made me realize that it was indeed the perfect ending. He said, "How do you pick up the threads of an old life? How do you go on...when in your heart... you begin to understand... there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend. Some hurts that go too deep...that have taken hold of you forever." That summed up exactly what I have been feeling for so long after experiencing all that I have in China........there is no going back. You cannot see children in real need and then just "turn it off". Their faces will be with you forever. And you will see that same longing in every child around the world who needs someone to care for them....whether it is on a news program about children in the Sudan, or news pictures of children in Iraq, or in a new photo of a child needing surgery from an orphanage saying,"please, can you help?" You can't turn off that intense desire to want to help them....because in your heart you know that the kids can't turn off their sadness, or fear, or loneliness. But I have realized recently that it is okay to have two thoughts always going at once. Because when your daughter looks up at you as the Sugar Plum Fairy comes out on the stage to dance, and whispers "isn't she BEAUTIFUL, mommy?"......you can blink away the tears that come from knowing so many children will never have such amoment of pure wonder.....and remind yourself to CHERISH that very moment that God has put in your life. Every child on this earth is a blessing.....and we should never take for granted those little moments with our own children that remind us how very lucky we all are to have each other as family. THAT is what I am reflecting on this holiday season. How blessed we are to have the gift of children in this world......and how much they depend on adults to take care of them and make them feel safe. So I will treasure every hectic moment and smile as we hurtle towards Christmas day, while knowing that it is perfectly okay to also cry on the inside, for all of those kids who still wait.
Amy Eldridge
I wanted to share this by Amy Eldridge from the "Love Without Boundaries" blog...
love without boundaries
This weekend I took my six year old daughter to see the Nutcracker for the very first time. It was in downtown Oklahoma City, and all the lights were twinkling around the square. Anna put on her red holiday dress and was beyond excited. As we walked into the music hall and we saw the 40 foot high tree, and all the beautiful decorations, I caught myself once again thinking about all the children who at that very moment were sleeping in barren cribs, with no heat. I do this to myself all the time, and I vowed that tonight I would NOT think about orphaned children, and I would just enjoy the evening. And so I looked around at all the happy families, and everyone had on holiday clothes, and the little girls were all dressed up for their night at the ballet. (I will not think of orphans.....I will not think of orphans........... ) and then a woman walked in with her daughter and I broke that vow for the millionth time. Her little girl was an absolute vision. She had on a floor length velvet gown, with an underskirt that caused her dress to swirl out around her. She had on a white fur coat, and her mom had curled her blonde hair into hundreds of ringlets. And on the top of her head she had a diamond tiara. I think it was the tiara that brought the tears. And not because it was expensive, but because this mom had obviously spent so much time lovingly getting her little girl ready for a very special night out. I could just envision her bringing out the princess crown and saying, "THIS is a magical night and you deserve to look like a queen." They were laughing and holding hands, and as they walked up the grand staircase it hit me once again full in my heart the disparity that exists in the world with children. Why are some children born to be treasured and others are born to know only pain? How many children in the world NEVER have a momma to do their hair and tell them, "today is a SPECIAL day." Sometimes I think I must be crazy.....and I will look around me to see if it looks like anyone else in the room is feeling like this. Is it normal to cry when your little boy steps up to homeplate, knowing that so many children around the world will never have that simple pleasure? Is it normal to go to the park and have to choke back tears watching children just enjoy the tiny thrill that comes from being able to play outside or zoom down a slide? Oh I hope so....because that is my normal now. I so want to give my own children a feeling of JOY this season. But I find my head has two thoughts running at the exact same time every moment of the day. Mom, can we bake cookies? *** 13 new babies are critical and we have nowhere to put them. Mrs. Eldridge, can you send treats for the holiday party? ***** She has severe heart disease and might have lung damage. Mom, can we go see Narnia? ***** Do you have the funds to help us? She is so sick and we feel she needs to be in the hospital. Mom, where are my band shoes? **** If we can build this school they have a chance to learn to read and rise above their poverty. Where shall we hang the ornaments? ***** I am sorry but he passed away......he was just too sick when we found him. Can you take us shopping for gifts? ***** She was left weighing just 2 kg, she needs to move immediately to the hospital, do we have the funds? The other night I turned off my computer and sat down to watch the ending of Lord of the Rings: Return of the King. I remember when I first saw it (pre-China), and I thought that they should have ended the movie when Aragon turns to Frodo with the glorious backdrop of the mountains and castle and says "you kneel to no man". After that the movie goes back to the Hobbit's shire and I remember not really liking the way it was wrapped up....I wanted the GRAND ending. :-) So this time I was watching it and I jokingly said to my husband, "maybe we should just stop it at the scene with Aragon and not watch the rest." But of course we kept going, and then Frodo said something that made me realize that it was indeed the perfect ending. He said, "How do you pick up the threads of an old life? How do you go on...when in your heart... you begin to understand... there is no going back? There are some things that time cannot mend. Some hurts that go too deep...that have taken hold of you forever." That summed up exactly what I have been feeling for so long after experiencing all that I have in China........there is no going back. You cannot see children in real need and then just "turn it off". Their faces will be with you forever. And you will see that same longing in every child around the world who needs someone to care for them....whether it is on a news program about children in the Sudan, or news pictures of children in Iraq, or in a new photo of a child needing surgery from an orphanage saying,"please, can you help?" You can't turn off that intense desire to want to help them....because in your heart you know that the kids can't turn off their sadness, or fear, or loneliness. But I have realized recently that it is okay to have two thoughts always going at once. Because when your daughter looks up at you as the Sugar Plum Fairy comes out on the stage to dance, and whispers "isn't she BEAUTIFUL, mommy?"......you can blink away the tears that come from knowing so many children will never have such amoment of pure wonder.....and remind yourself to CHERISH that very moment that God has put in your life. Every child on this earth is a blessing.....and we should never take for granted those little moments with our own children that remind us how very lucky we all are to have each other as family. THAT is what I am reflecting on this holiday season. How blessed we are to have the gift of children in this world......and how much they depend on adults to take care of them and make them feel safe. So I will treasure every hectic moment and smile as we hurtle towards Christmas day, while knowing that it is perfectly okay to also cry on the inside, for all of those kids who still wait.
Amy Eldridge
Dear Family and Friends
December 15, 2007
Dear Family and Friends,
As I sit here listening to Christmas music thinking of my "still to-do list" I take a step back and try to remind myself of the powerful truth that underlies this most sacred of holy seasons- "the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel." The TRUE meaning of Christmas. It is very easy to get caught up in all the commercialism of the holidays, but I hope that as you read this letter that you also will stop and think about the real reason for the season.
Looking back, 2007 was another year of God's grace. Our family continues to be covered with blessings. After "graduating" from preschool, and being voted "Class Bookworm" in the spring, Madison started Kindergarten. It was very emotional for me to let her go, but she is doing wonderfully. Jamie is still working at the hospital and in his spare time playing the guitar. He is playing with a local bluegrass band called "Special Edition". I still have a daycare.
We started attending a new church. Although we miss our church family dearly, we love that we can be more involved in a church close by. Madison is attending AWANA and loves it. She is doing a great job memorizing her Bible verses. I attended a woman's bible study in the summer, and Jamie and I are leading the Praise and Worship on Sunday nights.
Our biggest announcement is that we have decided to add another child to our family thru the miraculous blessing of adoption. For a little over a year, we have been talking and praying about another baby. We feel that the path that God has chosen for us to follow is thru international adoption. Specifically Korea, and we are very happy with our decision!
Our desire to have a child goes much deeper than our genes. There are so many children in the world who needs not only a mother, and a father (and a sister), but a loving extended family as well. We know that whether biological or not that this child will be as much our own child and as much a part of our family as Madison is.
This baby will be fully Korean, and we have no reservations about having a child of a different race and culture. As children we are taught "We are the World" and "Jesus Loves the Little Children". With that in mind we need to remind ourselves that we are all God's children, no matter where we are born or the color of our skin. God sees no color. A child is a child no matter where they are from whether it's the U.S., Korea, Africa, or Spain. They all need love and deserve a family.
We realize that this is not the easiest way to have a child. The process is very time consuming, stressful, and expensive. Although it may not be the road for everyone, we know it is the right road for us. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Finally dear friends, Christmas would not be complete without the smiles, hugs, and love that you bring to our lives. We are honored to call you all family. I pray that every good thing will come your way as you celebrate Jesus' birth. May the wonder, joy, peace, and hope of Christmas, fill your mind and heart this year. God bless you and Merry Christmas!
Jamie Jessica and Madison
Dear Family and Friends,
As I sit here listening to Christmas music thinking of my "still to-do list" I take a step back and try to remind myself of the powerful truth that underlies this most sacred of holy seasons- "the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel." The TRUE meaning of Christmas. It is very easy to get caught up in all the commercialism of the holidays, but I hope that as you read this letter that you also will stop and think about the real reason for the season.
Looking back, 2007 was another year of God's grace. Our family continues to be covered with blessings. After "graduating" from preschool, and being voted "Class Bookworm" in the spring, Madison started Kindergarten. It was very emotional for me to let her go, but she is doing wonderfully. Jamie is still working at the hospital and in his spare time playing the guitar. He is playing with a local bluegrass band called "Special Edition". I still have a daycare.
We started attending a new church. Although we miss our church family dearly, we love that we can be more involved in a church close by. Madison is attending AWANA and loves it. She is doing a great job memorizing her Bible verses. I attended a woman's bible study in the summer, and Jamie and I are leading the Praise and Worship on Sunday nights.
Our biggest announcement is that we have decided to add another child to our family thru the miraculous blessing of adoption. For a little over a year, we have been talking and praying about another baby. We feel that the path that God has chosen for us to follow is thru international adoption. Specifically Korea, and we are very happy with our decision!
Our desire to have a child goes much deeper than our genes. There are so many children in the world who needs not only a mother, and a father (and a sister), but a loving extended family as well. We know that whether biological or not that this child will be as much our own child and as much a part of our family as Madison is.
This baby will be fully Korean, and we have no reservations about having a child of a different race and culture. As children we are taught "We are the World" and "Jesus Loves the Little Children". With that in mind we need to remind ourselves that we are all God's children, no matter where we are born or the color of our skin. God sees no color. A child is a child no matter where they are from whether it's the U.S., Korea, Africa, or Spain. They all need love and deserve a family.
We realize that this is not the easiest way to have a child. The process is very time consuming, stressful, and expensive. Although it may not be the road for everyone, we know it is the right road for us. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Finally dear friends, Christmas would not be complete without the smiles, hugs, and love that you bring to our lives. We are honored to call you all family. I pray that every good thing will come your way as you celebrate Jesus' birth. May the wonder, joy, peace, and hope of Christmas, fill your mind and heart this year. God bless you and Merry Christmas!
Jamie Jessica and Madison
NEW CHANGES UPDATE
December 5, 2007
Well, it has been a while since I have updated about our adoption. There have been a few changes......
First we had another interview today with our social worker, it went well. She is coming to our house for our home visit next Friday and then we are done with our homestudy!!
Over the past month Viet Nam has had some problems on the adoption front, which could possibly lead to US stopping adoptions from Viet Nam until they can work out the details. I pray that this will not be the case, but most likely will happen in the early spring. After praying about it and talking to each other along with our pastor and his wife, we have decided that instead of taking the chance that the program will close to instead adopt from KOREA!!
(The decision to switch was not an easy one to make. With adoption you love your child way before you have them, and for me to switch countries was almost like losing a baby. I have grieved and now am moving on.)
Korea has the longest running of international adoptions in the US. It is a very smooth running process. Also they don't have the political turmoil that alot of other countries do. Since we are drawn to Asian countries Korea seems to be a perfect fit. Jamie likes it because the travel time is relatively short, just 5-7 days and they have direct flights from Dulles to Seoul. The time frame is about the same, hopefully next summer a referral and travel 3-4 months later.
After telling people that we have decided to go with Korea, it has amazed me that a lot of people have said that's where they thought we should be anyway.
Will update more soon.
Well, it has been a while since I have updated about our adoption. There have been a few changes......
First we had another interview today with our social worker, it went well. She is coming to our house for our home visit next Friday and then we are done with our homestudy!!
Over the past month Viet Nam has had some problems on the adoption front, which could possibly lead to US stopping adoptions from Viet Nam until they can work out the details. I pray that this will not be the case, but most likely will happen in the early spring. After praying about it and talking to each other along with our pastor and his wife, we have decided that instead of taking the chance that the program will close to instead adopt from KOREA!!
(The decision to switch was not an easy one to make. With adoption you love your child way before you have them, and for me to switch countries was almost like losing a baby. I have grieved and now am moving on.)
Korea has the longest running of international adoptions in the US. It is a very smooth running process. Also they don't have the political turmoil that alot of other countries do. Since we are drawn to Asian countries Korea seems to be a perfect fit. Jamie likes it because the travel time is relatively short, just 5-7 days and they have direct flights from Dulles to Seoul. The time frame is about the same, hopefully next summer a referral and travel 3-4 months later.
After telling people that we have decided to go with Korea, it has amazed me that a lot of people have said that's where they thought we should be anyway.
Will update more soon.
November is National Adoption Month
November 1, 2007
Today begins National Adoption Month!
Also we had our first Group study meeting tonight. It went well. There is another couple who is adopting from Viet Nam, and they also have biological children. Three actually, a 15 year old daughter, a 4 year old daughter and a 7 year old son. Madison is approaching 6, so we hope that we will be able to get together with them once we have our children home.
We have most of our paperwork in. We even had to have a 10 page typed autobiography. Boy those were tough. We are still waiting on our birth certificates and our marriage license, but they should be in the mail next week. Next is Dr's appointments and fingerprinting!! But they are time sensitive and must be done closer to the end.
We have 2 more group studies 3 1/2 hours each for 3 Thursdays in a row. Then once all of our paperwork is in, we will have another interview, and then our social worker will come do a home visit. Then we are done with our Home Study, and move on to phase II which is....you guessed it......MORE PAPERWORK!!!
We also got confirmation that our application to PLAN (our international agency) was received!!! We should have our contracts from them soon.
Today begins National Adoption Month!
Also we had our first Group study meeting tonight. It went well. There is another couple who is adopting from Viet Nam, and they also have biological children. Three actually, a 15 year old daughter, a 4 year old daughter and a 7 year old son. Madison is approaching 6, so we hope that we will be able to get together with them once we have our children home.
We have most of our paperwork in. We even had to have a 10 page typed autobiography. Boy those were tough. We are still waiting on our birth certificates and our marriage license, but they should be in the mail next week. Next is Dr's appointments and fingerprinting!! But they are time sensitive and must be done closer to the end.
We have 2 more group studies 3 1/2 hours each for 3 Thursdays in a row. Then once all of our paperwork is in, we will have another interview, and then our social worker will come do a home visit. Then we are done with our Home Study, and move on to phase II which is....you guessed it......MORE PAPERWORK!!!
We also got confirmation that our application to PLAN (our international agency) was received!!! We should have our contracts from them soon.
INFO
October 26, 2007
"For my extended family and friends: We need a slap on the back. Guess what, we're not crazy. And we're certainly not saints. This decision has not been made lightly so please don't assume we have not thought it through. We don't need your approval, but we would like to have it. We'd never tell you how many kids to have, or how you should choose to bring them into your family, so we hope you won't tell us. What we need from you is a big hug and a hearty "Congratulations!" You see, I'm emotionally pregnant right now. And expectant mothers need TLC."
"For my extended family and friends: We need a slap on the back. Guess what, we're not crazy. And we're certainly not saints. This decision has not been made lightly so please don't assume we have not thought it through. We don't need your approval, but we would like to have it. We'd never tell you how many kids to have, or how you should choose to bring them into your family, so we hope you won't tell us. What we need from you is a big hug and a hearty "Congratulations!" You see, I'm emotionally pregnant right now. And expectant mothers need TLC."
Adoption Questions
October 14, 2007
Lots of people have been asking a lot of questions like "Why don't you have your own kid again?" Well, we feel that we don't have to biologically have children in order to love them, or to be our "OWN". Bio or adopted they will just be OUR kids, and why not open our hearts to adoption because I believe WE all have been adopted. God first adopted us, through Christ His son we are adopted and joint heirs in the kingdom of salvation.
"Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise and glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:5-6 (NKJV)
"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you have received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness to our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together." Romans 8:14-17 (NKJV)
"Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world." James 1:27 (NKJV)
Why we don't adopt from here (Here being the United States) because there are lots of children here? There are alot of children here, AND there are SO many more everywhere else. And since I don't look at all of us as separate to me there is NO difference between a child in Asia, Africa, the U.S. or Spain - a child is a child no matter where they are from and they all need love regardless! Besides that we feel that we are being led to ASIA. (See blog on adoption update.)
Lots of people have been asking a lot of questions like "Why don't you have your own kid again?" Well, we feel that we don't have to biologically have children in order to love them, or to be our "OWN". Bio or adopted they will just be OUR kids, and why not open our hearts to adoption because I believe WE all have been adopted. God first adopted us, through Christ His son we are adopted and joint heirs in the kingdom of salvation.
"Having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise and glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:5-6 (NKJV)
"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but you have received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness to our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together." Romans 8:14-17 (NKJV)
"Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world." James 1:27 (NKJV)
Why we don't adopt from here (Here being the United States) because there are lots of children here? There are alot of children here, AND there are SO many more everywhere else. And since I don't look at all of us as separate to me there is NO difference between a child in Asia, Africa, the U.S. or Spain - a child is a child no matter where they are from and they all need love regardless! Besides that we feel that we are being led to ASIA. (See blog on adoption update.)
First Homestudy Interview
October 10, 2007
We had our first home study interview Tuesday, and after a VERY LONG WEEKEND and VERY LONG MONDAY NIGHT, it went VERY well. We met our social worker, Judy, and she will be the one working with us for the whole process. We were nervous but basically we just had to answer ALOT of questions, and also was able to get alot of our questions answered. We will have another interview with her, then she will come to our house. Also, we have to get our papers together that are required and have 10 hours of training on adoption, attachment, and becoming a trans racial family. Hopefully the Homestudy part of our process will be completed by December. =)
We had our first home study interview Tuesday, and after a VERY LONG WEEKEND and VERY LONG MONDAY NIGHT, it went VERY well. We met our social worker, Judy, and she will be the one working with us for the whole process. We were nervous but basically we just had to answer ALOT of questions, and also was able to get alot of our questions answered. We will have another interview with her, then she will come to our house. Also, we have to get our papers together that are required and have 10 hours of training on adoption, attachment, and becoming a trans racial family. Hopefully the Homestudy part of our process will be completed by December. =)
This is really happening
October 4, 2007
just received the call from Roanoke Catholic Charities!! They accepted our application, and am going to make an appointment for our first meeting early next week! So now we are on to step 2!
Keep us in your prayers!!
**UPDATE: Our first Homestudy interview is Tuesday October 9, 2007 at 9:30 am!!!
just received the call from Roanoke Catholic Charities!! They accepted our application, and am going to make an appointment for our first meeting early next week! So now we are on to step 2!
Keep us in your prayers!!
**UPDATE: Our first Homestudy interview is Tuesday October 9, 2007 at 9:30 am!!!
Adoption Update =)
September 30, 2007
Well, we are officially starting our adoption process. As many of you know last November we decided to adopt and have had to wait ever since because China's laws require that BOTH parents have to be 30 before the dossier can be logged in. The dossier is ALL the paperwork that has to be filled out and notorized from the US government. etc. etc. I felt certain that we would adopt from China, my heart has been there and maybe it still is (one day!)
HOWEVER.....God has other plans for us. I know that this is going to sound kind of bad but when I would look at the pictures of the children from those websites, I tend to overlook the boys. I don't do it intentionally I love ALL CHILDREN and am very close to a lot of the little boys that I watch. I just figured we would adopt a little girl and since I have a daughter already it just seems natural, and I always wanted girls. Well, I saw a little BOY (407-08) on a website called rainbowkids.com (it is an adoption website that has waiting children from ALL over the world. They are available for adoption, mostly because they are considered "special needs".
That being said the little boy was 22 months old and that was his special need...He was considered TOO OLD to be adopted. =( First his little face just melted my heart, and then I realized that his birthday was on the same day that I felt God planted in my heart to adopt, just a years difference he was born in 2005 and not 2006. Well I knew the chances of us being able to adopt him were SLIM. (AND WE'RE NOT ABLE TO. LUCKILY I THINK HE'S SINCE FOUND HIS FOREVER FAMILY-AS HE'S NO LONGER ON THE LIST!) In order to request a child off of the waiting list you have to have your HOMESTUDY completed, and we DON'T because we've been WAITING, because they are only good for a year. Of course I prayed about it anyway and called the adoption agency right away, and found out he is from VIETNAM.
Before I knew that he wasn't available anymore I found a local agency and they were having an orientation meeting the very next night. So I attended, Jamie was on call and couldn't change his schedule on such short notice. I brought an application home and Jamie and I decided to fill it out and start the process for adoption from VIETNAM.
I think God showed us that little boy for one of two reasons. I think it was to give us a nudge to go on and start the process in Vietnam (or Korea-that is our second option) instead of waiting for China, OR to open up our hearts to a little boy OR both!
The application is filled out and will be in the mail tomorrow October 1, 2007. Then I will officially be PAPER PREGNANT!! We are EXCITED, but are very SCARED and NERVOUS! The adoption process is VERY long, VERY emotional,and VERY expensive! We are exhausting ALL areas that we can to come up with the MONEY, luckily it is paid for over the whole adoption process and not in one lump sum. We will be having some fundraisers, along with some odd and end jobs to help us along the way.
PLEASE KEEP US IN YOUR PRAYERS!
Psalm 32:3, "I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will consel you and watch over you."
Jer 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Well, we are officially starting our adoption process. As many of you know last November we decided to adopt and have had to wait ever since because China's laws require that BOTH parents have to be 30 before the dossier can be logged in. The dossier is ALL the paperwork that has to be filled out and notorized from the US government. etc. etc. I felt certain that we would adopt from China, my heart has been there and maybe it still is (one day!)
HOWEVER.....God has other plans for us. I know that this is going to sound kind of bad but when I would look at the pictures of the children from those websites, I tend to overlook the boys. I don't do it intentionally I love ALL CHILDREN and am very close to a lot of the little boys that I watch. I just figured we would adopt a little girl and since I have a daughter already it just seems natural, and I always wanted girls. Well, I saw a little BOY (407-08) on a website called rainbowkids.com (it is an adoption website that has waiting children from ALL over the world. They are available for adoption, mostly because they are considered "special needs".
That being said the little boy was 22 months old and that was his special need...He was considered TOO OLD to be adopted. =( First his little face just melted my heart, and then I realized that his birthday was on the same day that I felt God planted in my heart to adopt, just a years difference he was born in 2005 and not 2006. Well I knew the chances of us being able to adopt him were SLIM. (AND WE'RE NOT ABLE TO. LUCKILY I THINK HE'S SINCE FOUND HIS FOREVER FAMILY-AS HE'S NO LONGER ON THE LIST!) In order to request a child off of the waiting list you have to have your HOMESTUDY completed, and we DON'T because we've been WAITING, because they are only good for a year. Of course I prayed about it anyway and called the adoption agency right away, and found out he is from VIETNAM.
Before I knew that he wasn't available anymore I found a local agency and they were having an orientation meeting the very next night. So I attended, Jamie was on call and couldn't change his schedule on such short notice. I brought an application home and Jamie and I decided to fill it out and start the process for adoption from VIETNAM.
I think God showed us that little boy for one of two reasons. I think it was to give us a nudge to go on and start the process in Vietnam (or Korea-that is our second option) instead of waiting for China, OR to open up our hearts to a little boy OR both!
The application is filled out and will be in the mail tomorrow October 1, 2007. Then I will officially be PAPER PREGNANT!! We are EXCITED, but are very SCARED and NERVOUS! The adoption process is VERY long, VERY emotional,and VERY expensive! We are exhausting ALL areas that we can to come up with the MONEY, luckily it is paid for over the whole adoption process and not in one lump sum. We will be having some fundraisers, along with some odd and end jobs to help us along the way.
PLEASE KEEP US IN YOUR PRAYERS!
Psalm 32:3, "I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will consel you and watch over you."
Jer 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
SHOW HOPE
April 28, 2007
Found this on a blog about adoption and thought I would share. I hope that each of us take a few minutes to pray for these orphans all over the world.
Make a difference Join the Movement
The story: At the age of 11, Emily Chapman came back from a trip to Haiti, and her heart was on fire to help the orphans and waiting children around the world. Emily already knew that God wanted her family to adopt, but her parents resisted. So she started praying. We believe miracles happen when you pray.
Now, years later, the Chapmans have adopted not 1 but 3 girls, and they have started an organization called Shaohannah's Hope (named after their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah Hope Chapman) that mobilizes individuals and communities to care for orphans. Shaohannah's Hope has helped over 1,000 orphans find a family, and many others have been impacted by their work. Miracles happen when you pray.
The movement: This movement began long before Shaohannah's Hope. It began long before any of us were born. This movement is rooted in the heart of God (Ps 10:14) and began with God's infinite love for orphans. This movement will continue long after we are gone, because God loves orphans. This movement consists of broken hearts longing to experience the redemption that is found when we turn our attention off ourselves and love these waiting children.
The forgotten children of the world are some of the most valuable hidden treasures that exist. We seek to serve these orphaned, foster, and waiting children in the name of Christ, regardless of their gender, religion, race, or ethnicity, and we will begin on our knees. Will you join us?
Why Pray?
They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." -Mark 14:32
143 million orphans and waiting children. Millions of children longing for the love of a family, for a place to belong, for somewhere to call home. There is so much to do, and yet we are calling people to start with prayer? Don't just do something, sit there!Why pray? I guess it's comes down to the classic answers: "Because the Bible tells us to", "What would Jesus do?" and "Why not?" When we've got a direct line to the omnipotent God of the universe, a God who promises to care and bend His ear to our plea, why wouldn't we start there? When Jesus establishes the primacy of prayer by rising early to pray before starting his ministry, or before going on to accomplish His work on the cross first taking the time to battle it out in prayer in the garden, why wouldn't we mimic his example? And when our gracious God expresses over and over in His Word, His guidebook, His love letter, that He longs for us to come before Him in prayer in all things and on all occasions, why wouldn't we oblige Him? As weak, fallible, and needy beings, we humbly take our proper position before our God. And as we kneel before Him, aware of the injustice around us, responding to the One who loved us first, we pray, "Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Your name. May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done, on earth, in the lives of these orphans, in your church, and in my life, as it is in Heaven."I believe it will not be until the end of this world that we will finally get to see the full extent of the power and transformation that is unleashed by that simple prayer.
What Now?
Pray.Spread the word.
"Prayer does not equip us for greater works— prayer is the greater work."- Oswald Chambers
The Facts:
What is the need?
Over 143 million children have lost one or both parents. 1
At least 16.2 million children worldwide have lost both parents. 2
Every 14 seconds a child loses a parent due to AIDS. 3
Conflict has orphaned or separated 1 million children from their families in the 1990s. 4
Where are they?
43.4 million orphans live in sub-Saharan Africa, 87.6 million orphans live in Asia, and 12.4 million orphans live in Latin America and the Caribbean. 5
1.5 million children live in public care in Central and Eastern Europe alone. 6
At any given point there are over 500,000 children in the U.S. Foster Care system. 7
In some countries, children are abandoned at alarming rates, due to poverty, restrictive population control policies, disabilities or perceived disabilities, and cultural traditions that value boys more than girls. 8
What about AIDS?
More than 14 million children under the age of 15 have lost one or both parents to AIDS, the vast majority of them in sub-Saharan Africa. 9
By 2010, the number of children orphaned by AIDS globally is expected to exceed 25 million. 10
AIDS is more likely than other cause of death to result in children losing both parents. 11
As the infection spreads, the number of children who have lost parents to AIDS is beginning to grow in other regions as well, including Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean and Eastern Europe. 12
What happens to the children?
Children are profoundly affected as their parents fall sick and die, setting them on a long trail of painful experiences often characterized by: economic hardship, lack of love, attention and affection, withdrawal from school, psychological distress, loss of inheritance, increased physical and sexual abuse and risk of HIV infection, malnutrition and illness, stigma, discrimination, exploitation, trafficking, and isolation. 13
Orphaned children are much more likely than non-orphans to be working in commercial agriculture, as street vendors, in domestic service and in the sex trade. 14
Unaccompanied boys are at high risk of forced or 'voluntary' participation in violence and armed conflict. 15
Orphanages, children's villages, or other group residential facilities generally fail to meet young people's emotional and psychological needs. 16
What about foster care?
On average, children stay in foster care for 30 months, or 2.5 years. 17
118,000 children were waiting to be adopted on September 30, 2004. 18
On average, those children waiting for adoption have been in foster care for 43.8 months, almost 4 years. 19
Each year, an estimated 20,000 young people "age out" of the U.S. foster care system. Many are only 18 years old and still need support and services. Of those who aged out of foster care: 20 Outcome 21 Earned a high school diploma: 54% Obtained a Bachelor's degree or higher: 2% Were unemployed: 51% Had no health insurance: 30% Had been homeless: 25% 22 Were receiving public assistance: 30%
Is there any hope?
Yes. There is One who infinitely loves each orphan and calls His people to join Him in caring for the fatherless. Each one of us can Show Hope to an orphan.
If only 7% of the 2 billion Christians in the world would show hope to a single orphan, looking after the child in their distress, there would effectively be no more orphans. We can each do something.
Found this on a blog about adoption and thought I would share. I hope that each of us take a few minutes to pray for these orphans all over the world.
Make a difference Join the Movement
The story: At the age of 11, Emily Chapman came back from a trip to Haiti, and her heart was on fire to help the orphans and waiting children around the world. Emily already knew that God wanted her family to adopt, but her parents resisted. So she started praying. We believe miracles happen when you pray.
Now, years later, the Chapmans have adopted not 1 but 3 girls, and they have started an organization called Shaohannah's Hope (named after their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah Hope Chapman) that mobilizes individuals and communities to care for orphans. Shaohannah's Hope has helped over 1,000 orphans find a family, and many others have been impacted by their work. Miracles happen when you pray.
The movement: This movement began long before Shaohannah's Hope. It began long before any of us were born. This movement is rooted in the heart of God (Ps 10:14) and began with God's infinite love for orphans. This movement will continue long after we are gone, because God loves orphans. This movement consists of broken hearts longing to experience the redemption that is found when we turn our attention off ourselves and love these waiting children.
The forgotten children of the world are some of the most valuable hidden treasures that exist. We seek to serve these orphaned, foster, and waiting children in the name of Christ, regardless of their gender, religion, race, or ethnicity, and we will begin on our knees. Will you join us?
Why Pray?
They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." -Mark 14:32
143 million orphans and waiting children. Millions of children longing for the love of a family, for a place to belong, for somewhere to call home. There is so much to do, and yet we are calling people to start with prayer? Don't just do something, sit there!Why pray? I guess it's comes down to the classic answers: "Because the Bible tells us to", "What would Jesus do?" and "Why not?" When we've got a direct line to the omnipotent God of the universe, a God who promises to care and bend His ear to our plea, why wouldn't we start there? When Jesus establishes the primacy of prayer by rising early to pray before starting his ministry, or before going on to accomplish His work on the cross first taking the time to battle it out in prayer in the garden, why wouldn't we mimic his example? And when our gracious God expresses over and over in His Word, His guidebook, His love letter, that He longs for us to come before Him in prayer in all things and on all occasions, why wouldn't we oblige Him? As weak, fallible, and needy beings, we humbly take our proper position before our God. And as we kneel before Him, aware of the injustice around us, responding to the One who loved us first, we pray, "Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Your name. May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done, on earth, in the lives of these orphans, in your church, and in my life, as it is in Heaven."I believe it will not be until the end of this world that we will finally get to see the full extent of the power and transformation that is unleashed by that simple prayer.
What Now?
Pray.Spread the word.
"Prayer does not equip us for greater works— prayer is the greater work."- Oswald Chambers
The Facts:
What is the need?
Over 143 million children have lost one or both parents. 1
At least 16.2 million children worldwide have lost both parents. 2
Every 14 seconds a child loses a parent due to AIDS. 3
Conflict has orphaned or separated 1 million children from their families in the 1990s. 4
Where are they?
43.4 million orphans live in sub-Saharan Africa, 87.6 million orphans live in Asia, and 12.4 million orphans live in Latin America and the Caribbean. 5
1.5 million children live in public care in Central and Eastern Europe alone. 6
At any given point there are over 500,000 children in the U.S. Foster Care system. 7
In some countries, children are abandoned at alarming rates, due to poverty, restrictive population control policies, disabilities or perceived disabilities, and cultural traditions that value boys more than girls. 8
What about AIDS?
More than 14 million children under the age of 15 have lost one or both parents to AIDS, the vast majority of them in sub-Saharan Africa. 9
By 2010, the number of children orphaned by AIDS globally is expected to exceed 25 million. 10
AIDS is more likely than other cause of death to result in children losing both parents. 11
As the infection spreads, the number of children who have lost parents to AIDS is beginning to grow in other regions as well, including Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean and Eastern Europe. 12
What happens to the children?
Children are profoundly affected as their parents fall sick and die, setting them on a long trail of painful experiences often characterized by: economic hardship, lack of love, attention and affection, withdrawal from school, psychological distress, loss of inheritance, increased physical and sexual abuse and risk of HIV infection, malnutrition and illness, stigma, discrimination, exploitation, trafficking, and isolation. 13
Orphaned children are much more likely than non-orphans to be working in commercial agriculture, as street vendors, in domestic service and in the sex trade. 14
Unaccompanied boys are at high risk of forced or 'voluntary' participation in violence and armed conflict. 15
Orphanages, children's villages, or other group residential facilities generally fail to meet young people's emotional and psychological needs. 16
What about foster care?
On average, children stay in foster care for 30 months, or 2.5 years. 17
118,000 children were waiting to be adopted on September 30, 2004. 18
On average, those children waiting for adoption have been in foster care for 43.8 months, almost 4 years. 19
Each year, an estimated 20,000 young people "age out" of the U.S. foster care system. Many are only 18 years old and still need support and services. Of those who aged out of foster care: 20 Outcome 21 Earned a high school diploma: 54% Obtained a Bachelor's degree or higher: 2% Were unemployed: 51% Had no health insurance: 30% Had been homeless: 25% 22 Were receiving public assistance: 30%
Is there any hope?
Yes. There is One who infinitely loves each orphan and calls His people to join Him in caring for the fatherless. Each one of us can Show Hope to an orphan.
If only 7% of the 2 billion Christians in the world would show hope to a single orphan, looking after the child in their distress, there would effectively be no more orphans. We can each do something.
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