Wednesday, February 10, 2010
A question I get asked a whole heck of a lot...
QUESTION: Do you think it's a mandate for all Christians to adopt?
[I just got asked this question again on Facebook today. Here's my response:]
OOOOH, a question i get asked quite a bit. :) And one that people try to stump me on!
Here's what I say:
Preface: I can't say what every person should or should not do nor will I judge a person who doesn't supposedly "get it." That's wrong...
1) Scripture says that if we see someone in need and we have something that would fill their need yet DO NOT fill it, we do not have the love of God in us. [We have a family; orphans don't; we therefore should share with the orphan what we have that they do not.]
2) Scripture says that we must do to others what we would want done to us (or our own biological kids, for that matter). If we were orphaned, we would want to be adopted. Period. Not just visited or taken care of in a group home. Adopted into a family. And we would want the same for our biological kids.
3) Jesus didn't just come to visit us or care for us in our orphaned state; He came to lay down His life to adopt us. James 1:27 uses the phrase "visit orphans." The word "visit" there is the same word used for when Jesus came to "visit" us. He didn't leave us as orphans; He adopted us. He didn't see us in our orphaned state of despair and say, "Oh, poor things...I wish someone would do something about that." No, He adopted us. Changed our futures; our destinies; our families. We are to follow Him and do as He did.
4) How can we not? How can we look at the children in the world without families and say, 'No, not worth it.'? Our lives are not our own. We are called to pick up our crosses and follow Him. Not our own plans or desires or conveniences. Ain't nothin' about this whole "following Jesus" thing that is supposed to be convenient. Ask Jesus if the Cross was "convenient" or glamorous.
So, should every Christian adopt? Well, I like to turn that question on its head...What is a good reason a Christian SHOULDN'T adopt? Most reasons are self-focused if we are really honest with ourselves.
[Obviously, many people are not "fit" to adopt right now, but that is usually due to our own messes we've made with relationships, finances, life choices, etc, and not something put in our way stopping us from adopting.]
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
ADOPTION FUNDRAISING 101 - Guest Blogger - Gwen Oatsvall (see blog list on side bar)
I am posting this because so many families I talk to are so intimidated by the cost of adoption. Many never considering that God can and does provide!
Look at this statistic: 34% of Christian families have thought about adoption - only 1% actually do. Sadly, I think alot of them do not realize how much God longs for us to turn to Him for provision! Imagine how many children could find homes IF they could trust God's desire to show us how big He is!
I hope you are inspired and enjoy the post below.
Blessings,
Lydia
I can't tell you how many emails I get about adoption fundraising, so I thought I would do a post and see if I can put all my thoughts into one place ... This will not be a quick or easy fix to hurdles of raising funds ... I do cling to a saying my husband uses - "GOD WILL FUND WHAT HE FAVORS!" ... And we know HE favors the LEAST OF THESE !!!
So here are a few bullet points that I hope will make your journey clear and encourage you ...
1. Prepare your prayer life and be prepared to work really really HARD !!!
2. Do you believe what the scriptures say ? We are all called to care for orphans, speak up for those with no voice, where your heart is there also lies your treasure, whatever you did for the least of these you did for ME !!! And there are many more that call us to stand up for the FATHERLESS
3. You need be to share your story and the journey you are on ... God calls us to be prepared to give a TESTIMONY of what He is doing in our life ... How can people come along side of you when they don't know where you are on your journey ...
4. What are you talents ??? My husband is a coach and during our 2nd adoption he did a few special sports camps to raise money ... Use what God has gifted you w/ to raise funds ...
5. Don't ever be embarrassed to write letters to any and all who you are in contact w/ about your adoption and the RANSOM needed to bring your children home ... I can not tell you the people who have come along side of us financially because that was their part in our journey ... God called them to aid us and we are proud to say that they have a hand in bringing our children home and when they see Emily, Maggie, Joseph or Daisy at the gym playing, running around the yard, or at church they can know they are part of our legacy !!!
6. Katie has taught me about saying YES !!! Her life has showed us how to live more radically for Christ ... How amazing and peaceful it is to be in the center of God's will ... I will be honest and say on a teacher's salary and 6 kids (4 adoptions, 2 special needs angels, and all the medical) it doesn't make sense on paper ... We have even had people ask us HOW, WHY, and SAY WE ARE CRAZY ... but I will also say that we have never missed a meal, a house payment, gone cold, or needed anything, so how crazy really are we ... WE HAVE ROOM AT OUR TABLE, WE HAVE ROOM IN OUR HEARTS, WE HAVE ROOM IN OUR HOUSE, WE HAVE ROOM IN THE CAR, WE HAVE ROOM IN OUR DAY ... so why wouldn't we !!!
7. WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE UP ??? cable (gave that up a year when bringing Maggie home), TIVO, texting, STARBUCKS, dinner out (gave this up for 3 months when raising funds for Joseph/Daisy), Target new shoes, Magazine habit (gave this up when raising funds for Joseph/Daisy), concession at the games, or stick to a strict grocery budget ... We have done all these at one time or another ... It is not a sacrifice when you think of the eternal blessing you will receive when holding your child !!!
8. ACCEPTING HELP ... Katie Jo is a prime example of a selfless, gracious, and precious friend, who truly understands how precious it is to bring home a child and how hard that can be ... I can't tell you the amount of help she has been to me in raising funds, spreading the news about 147, and just down right getting in the dirt to get the job done ... She is an adoptive mom raising funds herself and yet, she has helped countless others do the same ... IF YOU HAVE A FRIEND WILLING TO HELP YOU, THEN LET THEM BECAUSE WE ARE THE BODY OF CHRIST NOT AN ISLAND !!!
9. check out the following for additional help ... LifeSong, Both Hands, and Show Hope
10. Last but not least ... After creating my first tee to fundraise and God completely blessing my efforts, Suzanne and I created 147 Million Orphans with a 3 fold purpose - 1) Bring awareness to the Orphan Crisis, 2) Feed Children in Uganda in Katie's program, 3) HELP FAMILIES FUNDRAISE. We know we have a great product ... We have sold to over 35 states in the United States along w/ British Columbia, Canada, Costa Rica, and Europe ... We have been and are helping over 15 families raise funds w/ all of our products (we are now offering the Ugandan Necklaces for fundraising efforts). IT IS OUR HONOR AND PRIVILEGE TO WALK THIS JOURNEY WITH YOU ... I have been there ... I UNDERSTAND YOUR HEART ... We have worked out most of the kinks in the process and it seems to be running very smoothly ... We have moved all the gear back into our garages (Jan's to be exact ... She is a whole other post ...Angel sent to 147) ... We are mom's helping other mom's to bring home the children God has for them !!!
Don't be afraid to SHOUT ... Tell the world your desire to see a LONELY PLACED IN A FAMILY! YOUR FAMILY !!!
You won't be alone ... God will send the troops !!!
Look at this statistic: 34% of Christian families have thought about adoption - only 1% actually do. Sadly, I think alot of them do not realize how much God longs for us to turn to Him for provision! Imagine how many children could find homes IF they could trust God's desire to show us how big He is!
I hope you are inspired and enjoy the post below.
Blessings,
Lydia
I can't tell you how many emails I get about adoption fundraising, so I thought I would do a post and see if I can put all my thoughts into one place ... This will not be a quick or easy fix to hurdles of raising funds ... I do cling to a saying my husband uses - "GOD WILL FUND WHAT HE FAVORS!" ... And we know HE favors the LEAST OF THESE !!!
So here are a few bullet points that I hope will make your journey clear and encourage you ...
1. Prepare your prayer life and be prepared to work really really HARD !!!
2. Do you believe what the scriptures say ? We are all called to care for orphans, speak up for those with no voice, where your heart is there also lies your treasure, whatever you did for the least of these you did for ME !!! And there are many more that call us to stand up for the FATHERLESS
3. You need be to share your story and the journey you are on ... God calls us to be prepared to give a TESTIMONY of what He is doing in our life ... How can people come along side of you when they don't know where you are on your journey ...
4. What are you talents ??? My husband is a coach and during our 2nd adoption he did a few special sports camps to raise money ... Use what God has gifted you w/ to raise funds ...
5. Don't ever be embarrassed to write letters to any and all who you are in contact w/ about your adoption and the RANSOM needed to bring your children home ... I can not tell you the people who have come along side of us financially because that was their part in our journey ... God called them to aid us and we are proud to say that they have a hand in bringing our children home and when they see Emily, Maggie, Joseph or Daisy at the gym playing, running around the yard, or at church they can know they are part of our legacy !!!
6. Katie has taught me about saying YES !!! Her life has showed us how to live more radically for Christ ... How amazing and peaceful it is to be in the center of God's will ... I will be honest and say on a teacher's salary and 6 kids (4 adoptions, 2 special needs angels, and all the medical) it doesn't make sense on paper ... We have even had people ask us HOW, WHY, and SAY WE ARE CRAZY ... but I will also say that we have never missed a meal, a house payment, gone cold, or needed anything, so how crazy really are we ... WE HAVE ROOM AT OUR TABLE, WE HAVE ROOM IN OUR HEARTS, WE HAVE ROOM IN OUR HOUSE, WE HAVE ROOM IN THE CAR, WE HAVE ROOM IN OUR DAY ... so why wouldn't we !!!
7. WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE UP ??? cable (gave that up a year when bringing Maggie home), TIVO, texting, STARBUCKS, dinner out (gave this up for 3 months when raising funds for Joseph/Daisy), Target new shoes, Magazine habit (gave this up when raising funds for Joseph/Daisy), concession at the games, or stick to a strict grocery budget ... We have done all these at one time or another ... It is not a sacrifice when you think of the eternal blessing you will receive when holding your child !!!
8. ACCEPTING HELP ... Katie Jo is a prime example of a selfless, gracious, and precious friend, who truly understands how precious it is to bring home a child and how hard that can be ... I can't tell you the amount of help she has been to me in raising funds, spreading the news about 147, and just down right getting in the dirt to get the job done ... She is an adoptive mom raising funds herself and yet, she has helped countless others do the same ... IF YOU HAVE A FRIEND WILLING TO HELP YOU, THEN LET THEM BECAUSE WE ARE THE BODY OF CHRIST NOT AN ISLAND !!!
9. check out the following for additional help ... LifeSong, Both Hands, and Show Hope
10. Last but not least ... After creating my first tee to fundraise and God completely blessing my efforts, Suzanne and I created 147 Million Orphans with a 3 fold purpose - 1) Bring awareness to the Orphan Crisis, 2) Feed Children in Uganda in Katie's program, 3) HELP FAMILIES FUNDRAISE. We know we have a great product ... We have sold to over 35 states in the United States along w/ British Columbia, Canada, Costa Rica, and Europe ... We have been and are helping over 15 families raise funds w/ all of our products (we are now offering the Ugandan Necklaces for fundraising efforts). IT IS OUR HONOR AND PRIVILEGE TO WALK THIS JOURNEY WITH YOU ... I have been there ... I UNDERSTAND YOUR HEART ... We have worked out most of the kinks in the process and it seems to be running very smoothly ... We have moved all the gear back into our garages (Jan's to be exact ... She is a whole other post ...Angel sent to 147) ... We are mom's helping other mom's to bring home the children God has for them !!!
Don't be afraid to SHOUT ... Tell the world your desire to see a LONELY PLACED IN A FAMILY! YOUR FAMILY !!!
You won't be alone ... God will send the troops !!!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Adopted for Life . . . and in Death
Please click on the link below - it is a tragic but beautiful story.
Adopted for Life . . . and in Death
Adopted for Life . . . and in Death
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Amazed by the Outpouring of Love for Haitian Orphans
Yesterday was an absolutely crazy day! I guess I should back up a bit to say it started at 9:30pm on Tuesday night when I got a call from a friend telling me that there were 300 Haitian orphans arriving the next day and they were looking for families to host them. I quickly got on the phone, sent out emails and prayed...before I went to bed I had $5000 pledged by a church, and 14 host families all in about a 2 hour span.
The next morning, my phone began ringing around 6:30 am and rang non-stop until 8pm last night. I also received about 100 emails, all wanting to help, to host or to adopt the 300 orphans arriving from Haiti. After a grueling day of fielding phone calls and emails, it came to light that the children were not coming right away as expected and that the details were not quite as we had been informed. However, it was wonderful to be a part of the response that people had. People from all over the United States were calling and emailing - it was touching to hear people's heart through their voice messages and emails......so many people wanted to help.
One thing I pointed out to Michele (our executive director) is that while the Haiti crisis is huge, there is an orphan crisis EVERY DAY. When there are over 145 million orphans needing care and families it is a crisis. Unfortunately, the response there is less than stellar...........I talk to so many people that call about hosting the Ukrainian children that are willing to host but when the full details are shared, they are not willing to do anything that truly costs them.
For some, the financial aspect of adoption is a deal breaker while for others it is the investment of their time, their emotions or their comfort that keeps them from being willing to give a child the future they deserve. I wish that people would truly grasp what Jesus was saying when he shared that the two greatest commands were to love God with all you heart, your soul and your strength and to love your neighbor as yourself. If people were truly able to wrap their minds around that then there would be no obstacle to adopt.
While the response to the Haitian orphans was wonderful and real, I wonder how many would have committed to being willing to adopt if they knew it would cost them...........their money, their time, their emotions, their comfort........I would like to think all would still want to, but past experience has taught me that there are few who are truly willing to pay the price.
My prayer is that the crisis in Haiti will continue to touch hearts, and that the global attention on the Haitian orphans will shed light on orphans all over the world and their need for love and care. I pray for families to find the courage to adopt, to trust in God's provision for their finances and to see the orphan through God's eyes.
The next morning, my phone began ringing around 6:30 am and rang non-stop until 8pm last night. I also received about 100 emails, all wanting to help, to host or to adopt the 300 orphans arriving from Haiti. After a grueling day of fielding phone calls and emails, it came to light that the children were not coming right away as expected and that the details were not quite as we had been informed. However, it was wonderful to be a part of the response that people had. People from all over the United States were calling and emailing - it was touching to hear people's heart through their voice messages and emails......so many people wanted to help.
One thing I pointed out to Michele (our executive director) is that while the Haiti crisis is huge, there is an orphan crisis EVERY DAY. When there are over 145 million orphans needing care and families it is a crisis. Unfortunately, the response there is less than stellar...........I talk to so many people that call about hosting the Ukrainian children that are willing to host but when the full details are shared, they are not willing to do anything that truly costs them.
For some, the financial aspect of adoption is a deal breaker while for others it is the investment of their time, their emotions or their comfort that keeps them from being willing to give a child the future they deserve. I wish that people would truly grasp what Jesus was saying when he shared that the two greatest commands were to love God with all you heart, your soul and your strength and to love your neighbor as yourself. If people were truly able to wrap their minds around that then there would be no obstacle to adopt.
While the response to the Haitian orphans was wonderful and real, I wonder how many would have committed to being willing to adopt if they knew it would cost them...........their money, their time, their emotions, their comfort........I would like to think all would still want to, but past experience has taught me that there are few who are truly willing to pay the price.
My prayer is that the crisis in Haiti will continue to touch hearts, and that the global attention on the Haitian orphans will shed light on orphans all over the world and their need for love and care. I pray for families to find the courage to adopt, to trust in God's provision for their finances and to see the orphan through God's eyes.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
What a blessed Christmas!
What a beautiful way to start Christmas! Waiting on the steps in anticipation of what is under the Christmas Tree! Of course the two older ones had to be dragged out of bed - but the 5 youngest were up at 5am!This Christmas was very special, it was Griffan's first. He shared with us he had never gotten a Christmas gift before. We talked about how great it was that he got Christmas gifts and a family this year! He agreed it was the best! What he doesn't know is it is our best Christmas too. Jeff got very emotional several times, thinking about what a special day it was for Griffan and that we were blessed with the opportunity to give him this gift of a family.
I pray some Christmas in the future, Griffan fully understands just how special this year was. I hope he discovers it isn't about the presents he had under the tree, but the true gift of this Christmas was........Jesus.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Ukrainian American Hoosier!
I pray that for every child that is waiting, God is touching the heart of a family - I also pray that the family will be brave enough to weather the difficulties of the adoption journey. We are fighting for the very lives of these children - it isn't an easy task. But for those who are courageous enough - it is a journey that can be filled with hidden blessings.
My prayers go up for all those families who are struggling in their process and need strength and courage that only God can provide. I pray for the children that so desperately want a family and those that don't because they don't understand what a family is.
For today, I will concentrate on all the smiles, hugs, and "I love you Mama"'s that Griffan can give and tonight I will watch A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS and be thankful that our son is home.
Monday, December 21, 2009
After 50 hours of travel....we made it home!!!!!!!
While I got no sleep - Griffan grabbed some when he could (or would). When he found out we were almost to Indianapolis - he perked up and got silly! He was so excited. He told me on the plane he doesn't want to be called "Vadym" any more - he is now Griffan forever.
To kick off his first day in America - he had to go to the dentist and got a tooth pulled. He had a badly decayed molar that was in to the nerve and causing much pain. Poor baby...Hopefully tomorrow will be pain free! Either way - he seems to be the happiest boy on earth right now!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Prayers for Yulia...
Had fun today handing out the socks, gloves and hats I bought for a few of the kids. We then had a little party with cookies, fruit and juice. I love spending time with the children - Griffan stayed busy most of the time taking pictures which kept his pouting to a minimum (only once). We were wrapping things up to take Griffan and Luba with us to our apartment when one girl began to cry...at first she wouldn't tell us why, but she finally told us she was crying because she too wanted a mama and papa. My heart was breaking for her.
I truly wish at this moment I could win the lottery and bring her, her 3 sisters and brother home with me too but the odds aren't very good. Please say a prayer for Yulia, her large sibling group makes it very difficult to find a family that is willing, but it doesn't prevent her from wanting parents to love her and care for her. God is more than able to provide, and all 5 of the kids are amazing....beautiful, sweet, smart, polite, kind, .....
I am praying that this year, Yulia gets her Christmas wish.......a mama and papa who love her and cherish her for the beautiful girl that she is, as well as her beautiful sisters and brother. It is the season for miracles.
I truly wish at this moment I could win the lottery and bring her, her 3 sisters and brother home with me too but the odds aren't very good. Please say a prayer for Yulia, her large sibling group makes it very difficult to find a family that is willing, but it doesn't prevent her from wanting parents to love her and care for her. God is more than able to provide, and all 5 of the kids are amazing....beautiful, sweet, smart, polite, kind, .....
I am praying that this year, Yulia gets her Christmas wish.......a mama and papa who love her and cherish her for the beautiful girl that she is, as well as her beautiful sisters and brother. It is the season for miracles.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Life is good.......
Today when I got up, I had the opportunity to watch the sunshine (that has been absent since our first day in Ukraine) cut through the clouds and beam in my window. I sat there drinking my coffee and praying - a great morning!
Later, we got to the orphanage and asked if we could take the kids for the afternooon (12-6pm) and were given permission~! It was fun sitting with the kids, trying to play a game that teaches them English, and feeding them! I made Griffan take off his pants and mended them in 3 places (2 of them in an unmentionable spot!) and Lena mended his jacket.
After getting home, we discovered we had HOT water! Enough for all 3 of us to have a shower and wash our hair (no more furry legs!). I posted on Facebook that Christmas must have come early! I am so thankful that God has allowed me to be on this journey - and I pray that many others will follow me here - there are so many precious kids here.
Every day the kids greet us and are anxious for recognition and a hug. Their smiles are so beautiful! When we are visiting our kids in the assistant director's office, many children open up the door for a quick look and hello. Griffan's friend asked if I could help him come to America someday too - he wanted a family.....I wish I could touch enough hearts to empty all the orphanages around the world....but it is not within my grasp, only God's. I am just happy to be a small part of His plan.
So for now, powerless to solve the orphan crisis, I will concentrate on the happiness of one little boy, and sharing as many smiles, hugs, and hello's as I can during the rest of the time I am here and count my blessings. Life is good, God is amazing!
Later, we got to the orphanage and asked if we could take the kids for the afternooon (12-6pm) and were given permission~! It was fun sitting with the kids, trying to play a game that teaches them English, and feeding them! I made Griffan take off his pants and mended them in 3 places (2 of them in an unmentionable spot!) and Lena mended his jacket.
After getting home, we discovered we had HOT water! Enough for all 3 of us to have a shower and wash our hair (no more furry legs!). I posted on Facebook that Christmas must have come early! I am so thankful that God has allowed me to be on this journey - and I pray that many others will follow me here - there are so many precious kids here.
Every day the kids greet us and are anxious for recognition and a hug. Their smiles are so beautiful! When we are visiting our kids in the assistant director's office, many children open up the door for a quick look and hello. Griffan's friend asked if I could help him come to America someday too - he wanted a family.....I wish I could touch enough hearts to empty all the orphanages around the world....but it is not within my grasp, only God's. I am just happy to be a small part of His plan.
So for now, powerless to solve the orphan crisis, I will concentrate on the happiness of one little boy, and sharing as many smiles, hugs, and hello's as I can during the rest of the time I am here and count my blessings. Life is good, God is amazing!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
On the bright side...
Today we got up early and headed to Cherkassy! Less than $2 for a 1 1/2 hour ride! Looked around for souveniers but couldn't find any. It is so funny - people lined up all over the street selling outdated Avon products. It was a nice break in our schedule (even though our kids didn't like we weren't coming today).
Went for pizza - was so looking forward to it after a bad food day yesterday. We went to our main restaurant in town and it was closed for a funeral dinner so we went down the street to another place we had tried to go before but it was always closed. Music was BLARING and there was no one in there. The waitress came and gave us a menu and got us some hot tea (Lena thought she used the same bag for all 3 - very weak!). We started to order and they had nothing we asked for - so we finally asked what they did have! Between the 3 of us we ordered borscht, fries, pelmeni and meat. The borscht was lukewarm (oil had seperated from broth), the potatoes tasted moldy, the pelmeni was sticky - meat was so so -but afraid to finish it. We decided to just go home and have chocolate.
Back to the pizza - not exactly mozzarella cheese and it wasn't much to my liking. Julie and Lena liked it okay, but I was disappointed after the bad food day yesterday (we only eat one meal a day) - On the bright side though before we left Cherkassy we stopped at McDonald's and had a hamburger, fries and cherry pie! Tasted wonderful!!!
Bought a few things at the store today and stopped at the internet cafe as ours wasn't working last night or this morning. Got on the cold bus to go back to our apartment. The funny thing is - the situation was so "ukrainian"! The bus station sells bus tickets, but the driver also sells them on the side, the inspector comes to count how many people and how many tickets were paid for and there were 4 more people than had bought tickets. The bus driver negotiates it down to paying her for 2 (they both pocket the money!). As we are pulling out past the station - another 5 people got on the bus! Lena told us that bus drivers are wealthy! So funny!
We are hoping to be able to pick up the kids tomorrow and spend some time with just them. I bought some games to play with them and have some movies. We will see......
No hot water again tonight - I joked about not being able to shave my legs but on the bright side it is at least keeping me warm!
Went for pizza - was so looking forward to it after a bad food day yesterday. We went to our main restaurant in town and it was closed for a funeral dinner so we went down the street to another place we had tried to go before but it was always closed. Music was BLARING and there was no one in there. The waitress came and gave us a menu and got us some hot tea (Lena thought she used the same bag for all 3 - very weak!). We started to order and they had nothing we asked for - so we finally asked what they did have! Between the 3 of us we ordered borscht, fries, pelmeni and meat. The borscht was lukewarm (oil had seperated from broth), the potatoes tasted moldy, the pelmeni was sticky - meat was so so -but afraid to finish it. We decided to just go home and have chocolate.
Back to the pizza - not exactly mozzarella cheese and it wasn't much to my liking. Julie and Lena liked it okay, but I was disappointed after the bad food day yesterday (we only eat one meal a day) - On the bright side though before we left Cherkassy we stopped at McDonald's and had a hamburger, fries and cherry pie! Tasted wonderful!!!
Bought a few things at the store today and stopped at the internet cafe as ours wasn't working last night or this morning. Got on the cold bus to go back to our apartment. The funny thing is - the situation was so "ukrainian"! The bus station sells bus tickets, but the driver also sells them on the side, the inspector comes to count how many people and how many tickets were paid for and there were 4 more people than had bought tickets. The bus driver negotiates it down to paying her for 2 (they both pocket the money!). As we are pulling out past the station - another 5 people got on the bus! Lena told us that bus drivers are wealthy! So funny!
We are hoping to be able to pick up the kids tomorrow and spend some time with just them. I bought some games to play with them and have some movies. We will see......
No hot water again tonight - I joked about not being able to shave my legs but on the bright side it is at least keeping me warm!
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
The end is in sight!
One week from today I will be heading to Kyiv with Griffan and finishing up the US Embassy paperwork! I will be home on Saturday, the 19th! We have a really long connection in Frankfort and a short one in Philadelphia. Please pray we make our connecting flight! I have this dream of being stuck and not making it home due to holiday traffic!!!!
Julie had court yesterday and all went well. The judge is giving her the paperwork a day early which should allow Julie to make it home for Christmas! Praise God! Luba has also been very shy and quiet and after court she was like a different child! I think the poor thing has been worried about getting her hopes up too much...and felt the relief. Her personality change had Julie worried and when Luba opened up it went a long way to reassure Julie!
I miss my family so much - I can't wait to see them! I love the emails the girls send! I am so glad we have internet here! Reading their emails goes a long way in helping me get through this time!
Griffan is also so excited about going home......vsegda (forever!). He is so cute when he practices saying his name: Grrrrrrriffan Na-tan-ee-yell Tarrrrrrrrr (they roll their r's here and can't say the th sound!). :) He is such a loving little boy - likes to hold my hand, get hugged and kissed - no wiping them off yet and saying, "Mom!" like most boys his age! He can be a pouter but quickly gets over things. I sense a lot of frustration coming when he gets home - he doesn't like to do things he doesn't do well! AND like most boys - doesn't like school!
We continue to endure under less than ideal circumstances - limited availability of water and lately no hot water! But we will survive and be more grateful for where we live! Looking very forward to that LONG HOT shower! :)
Julie had court yesterday and all went well. The judge is giving her the paperwork a day early which should allow Julie to make it home for Christmas! Praise God! Luba has also been very shy and quiet and after court she was like a different child! I think the poor thing has been worried about getting her hopes up too much...and felt the relief. Her personality change had Julie worried and when Luba opened up it went a long way to reassure Julie!
I miss my family so much - I can't wait to see them! I love the emails the girls send! I am so glad we have internet here! Reading their emails goes a long way in helping me get through this time!
Griffan is also so excited about going home......vsegda (forever!). He is so cute when he practices saying his name: Grrrrrrriffan Na-tan-ee-yell Tarrrrrrrrr (they roll their r's here and can't say the th sound!). :) He is such a loving little boy - likes to hold my hand, get hugged and kissed - no wiping them off yet and saying, "Mom!" like most boys his age! He can be a pouter but quickly gets over things. I sense a lot of frustration coming when he gets home - he doesn't like to do things he doesn't do well! AND like most boys - doesn't like school!
We continue to endure under less than ideal circumstances - limited availability of water and lately no hot water! But we will survive and be more grateful for where we live! Looking very forward to that LONG HOT shower! :)
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Still here...
Not really sure what to title the post today...other than we are still here. Jeff headed out Friday night to Kyiv and flew home Saturday, so Julie and I are left to finish things up. We had a new arrival to our routine - Anya (who is going to travel with the children coming in December) arrived late Friday night and it was nice to have someone new to talk to and have new conversations!
Julie had to go to the notary on Saturday and since we were going to get to the orphanage late, we got some kalbasa, cheese, ham, bread, drinks and fruit to take to the orphanage and had somewhat of a picnic with the kids. When we first got there, we had all the kids coming to Indiana later this month in and all the ones that had been this past summer in a small room - probably not more than a 10x10 room. Picture 3 adults and about 12 kids in a very small room - with a table and alot of chairs. Can you spell claustrophobia???
At first it got off to a bit of a rocky start - Vadym (who now wants me to call him Griffan :) was NOT happy about having all the kids in the room, there are a couple of kids that want to be in the room that he doesn't like. He began to pout and not make a very good impression on Anya! Not a proud mom at that point - so I took him outside the room and had Anya tell him he needed to behave. I assured him I was HIS mom forever and that out of all the kids in that room I loved HIM! I told him he would soon be leaving the orphanage forever and that the children in the room were still going to be there and that I wanted to get to know them and maybe help them also find a forever family. He listened and apologized and I gave him a hug and kisses (which I love that he lets me and seems to love it!). He came in and was a good boy the rest of the time - even told Anya he was sorry he got off on the wrong foot. I guess now that he has a mom and dad he wants to hold on tight.
We had a type of interview session with the kids - what do they like to do, their favorite colors, favorite foods, and asked if they had any questions about coming to America. It was alot of fun as the kids shared! I don't think any of them will be frightened coming - they are all anxious about it and looking forward to the adventure! All the kids wanted to know about their families - and that was hard..........I have one little 11yo girl who is so sweet and so beautiful (she has 2 sisters and 1 brother) that was asking about what "her" host family was like....I don't have one for her yet (and she is one of my favorites!) and I felt so bad...If you know anyone who would even consider the thought of 4 kids (ages 11,10,9,7) please let me know! They are wonderful kids - all of them.
Today is like the others - getting up early enough to try to catch the water on and waiting to go to the orphanage. Coming back and trying to figure out what to do until bedtime. At least we can enjoy Anya while she is here - she leaves tomorrow and Lena arrives. So again - new conversation and a break in the monotony. Also - Julie's daughter Alyona's older sister is here to visit a few days (which makes Julie feel better too).
Julie will have her 2nd court on Tuesday - please pray it will go well for her. I had told her I would stay with her if she wanted me to and she doesn't. I will not leave her alone though - we will make sure someone is with her the last few days. I leave on the 19th (which is a Saturday) and on Monday Julie will hit the road running with Victor to get all her paperwork for the visa. We are praying that Julie will make it home on Christmas eve.......please pray with us that she will get her Christmas miracle too.
I wish I could make the process smooth for everyone.....I wish there would be no Ukrainian or Italian couples to compete with, no officials who are trying to make a point, no judge that has the desire to wield their power, an adoption authority that was consistent, a country that would understand the why behind what we are doing, no delays, no stress, no pain........but unfortunately I can't...all I can do is to try to encourage and guide families along the way and trust that God ultimately knows best. There are days that my job is such a burden ... but then I spend time with the children...so beautiful, so wonderful, so in need of love, so worth all the struggle, stress, and pain that a family goes through and the burden of the job.
Helping these precious children is so worth the cost.........I wish I could help everyone understand that. Please pray that God would continue opening that door to help these children, that God would stir hearts of families to open their lives up to them, God's provision for each family, that each family would trust God to lead them to the child He knows is best for them and the strength for all of us to get through the rough patches in the process. All for God's glory.....
Julie had to go to the notary on Saturday and since we were going to get to the orphanage late, we got some kalbasa, cheese, ham, bread, drinks and fruit to take to the orphanage and had somewhat of a picnic with the kids. When we first got there, we had all the kids coming to Indiana later this month in and all the ones that had been this past summer in a small room - probably not more than a 10x10 room. Picture 3 adults and about 12 kids in a very small room - with a table and alot of chairs. Can you spell claustrophobia???
At first it got off to a bit of a rocky start - Vadym (who now wants me to call him Griffan :) was NOT happy about having all the kids in the room, there are a couple of kids that want to be in the room that he doesn't like. He began to pout and not make a very good impression on Anya! Not a proud mom at that point - so I took him outside the room and had Anya tell him he needed to behave. I assured him I was HIS mom forever and that out of all the kids in that room I loved HIM! I told him he would soon be leaving the orphanage forever and that the children in the room were still going to be there and that I wanted to get to know them and maybe help them also find a forever family. He listened and apologized and I gave him a hug and kisses (which I love that he lets me and seems to love it!). He came in and was a good boy the rest of the time - even told Anya he was sorry he got off on the wrong foot. I guess now that he has a mom and dad he wants to hold on tight.
We had a type of interview session with the kids - what do they like to do, their favorite colors, favorite foods, and asked if they had any questions about coming to America. It was alot of fun as the kids shared! I don't think any of them will be frightened coming - they are all anxious about it and looking forward to the adventure! All the kids wanted to know about their families - and that was hard..........I have one little 11yo girl who is so sweet and so beautiful (she has 2 sisters and 1 brother) that was asking about what "her" host family was like....I don't have one for her yet (and she is one of my favorites!) and I felt so bad...If you know anyone who would even consider the thought of 4 kids (ages 11,10,9,7) please let me know! They are wonderful kids - all of them.
Today is like the others - getting up early enough to try to catch the water on and waiting to go to the orphanage. Coming back and trying to figure out what to do until bedtime. At least we can enjoy Anya while she is here - she leaves tomorrow and Lena arrives. So again - new conversation and a break in the monotony. Also - Julie's daughter Alyona's older sister is here to visit a few days (which makes Julie feel better too).
Julie will have her 2nd court on Tuesday - please pray it will go well for her. I had told her I would stay with her if she wanted me to and she doesn't. I will not leave her alone though - we will make sure someone is with her the last few days. I leave on the 19th (which is a Saturday) and on Monday Julie will hit the road running with Victor to get all her paperwork for the visa. We are praying that Julie will make it home on Christmas eve.......please pray with us that she will get her Christmas miracle too.
I wish I could make the process smooth for everyone.....I wish there would be no Ukrainian or Italian couples to compete with, no officials who are trying to make a point, no judge that has the desire to wield their power, an adoption authority that was consistent, a country that would understand the why behind what we are doing, no delays, no stress, no pain........but unfortunately I can't...all I can do is to try to encourage and guide families along the way and trust that God ultimately knows best. There are days that my job is such a burden ... but then I spend time with the children...so beautiful, so wonderful, so in need of love, so worth all the struggle, stress, and pain that a family goes through and the burden of the job.
Helping these precious children is so worth the cost.........I wish I could help everyone understand that. Please pray that God would continue opening that door to help these children, that God would stir hearts of families to open their lives up to them, God's provision for each family, that each family would trust God to lead them to the child He knows is best for them and the strength for all of us to get through the rough patches in the process. All for God's glory.....
Friday, December 4, 2009
Good news and a bump in the road....
Okay - the good news is that we did have court today and things went well. In 10 days, V will officially be Griffan! He was very happy and so were we.
Now - the bump in the road.....Julie who travelled with us had her court scheduled today too but unfortunately the judge she had only wanted to do the preliminary court today and scheduled the official court on Tuesday. Not what we expected or hoped for...needless to say Julie was upset. This will be pushing it to get back by Christmas. However - they don't call it Christmas "Miracles" for nothing.
Please keep Julie in your prayers and that she is able to get all the paperwork she needs to make it home by Christmas. I know it is only a few extra days but when you are here a day seems like 10.
Can't wait to enjoy all the comforts of home....water than runs all day (instead of 6pm to 8am), toilets you can flush anytime you want and that are actual toilets and not holes in the ground, pizza delivery, tv we can watch and understand, signs and menus we can read, knowing that when you are in line that you are actually in a line and no one is going to keep cutting in front of you, being able to brush your teeth and wash your hands like normal, washing a full load of laundy(not miniature) and actually tossing in the dryer, .............as you can see home sounds pretty good right now! I miss the girls and dogs coming to snuggle in the bed with me!
But all in all - it is worth the cost......I would do it again for a little boy whose face lights up and runs to greet us! After all.......Christ did so much more for us...a little discomfort on my end is nothing compared to what He did to give us a future.
Would LOVE to hear from you - it is great to get emails or comments!
Now - the bump in the road.....Julie who travelled with us had her court scheduled today too but unfortunately the judge she had only wanted to do the preliminary court today and scheduled the official court on Tuesday. Not what we expected or hoped for...needless to say Julie was upset. This will be pushing it to get back by Christmas. However - they don't call it Christmas "Miracles" for nothing.
Please keep Julie in your prayers and that she is able to get all the paperwork she needs to make it home by Christmas. I know it is only a few extra days but when you are here a day seems like 10.
Can't wait to enjoy all the comforts of home....water than runs all day (instead of 6pm to 8am), toilets you can flush anytime you want and that are actual toilets and not holes in the ground, pizza delivery, tv we can watch and understand, signs and menus we can read, knowing that when you are in line that you are actually in a line and no one is going to keep cutting in front of you, being able to brush your teeth and wash your hands like normal, washing a full load of laundy(not miniature) and actually tossing in the dryer, .............as you can see home sounds pretty good right now! I miss the girls and dogs coming to snuggle in the bed with me!
But all in all - it is worth the cost......I would do it again for a little boy whose face lights up and runs to greet us! After all.......Christ did so much more for us...a little discomfort on my end is nothing compared to what He did to give us a future.
Would LOVE to hear from you - it is great to get emails or comments!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Going to Court Friday!!!
Good news! All that was needed to accomplish court has been achieved (thanks to our wonderful team!)! We will have court on Friday! Jeff will leave Friday to head back to Kyiv and home on Saturday!
God has been wonderful to us and has so far answered every prayer and every hurdle has been jumped! We are praying that we will make it home by 12/19!
I would write more but I am tired today and can't find the words to make it very interesting!
I am so excited that it looks like we may get our Christmas miracle after all!
God has been wonderful to us and has so far answered every prayer and every hurdle has been jumped! We are praying that we will make it home by 12/19!
I would write more but I am tired today and can't find the words to make it very interesting!
I am so excited that it looks like we may get our Christmas miracle after all!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
A little relief to the monotony!
Today we are just waiting and trying to find something to fill our time until we head to the orphanage! We will get to visit with the children for about 3 hours and then we will head to the one and only restaurant in town (which is very good!) and have our main meal of the day (we actually have been able to have toast here in the morning). Then we walk home and try to find something to occupy us until we can go to bed.
However tomorrow will be special as we are heading to a neighboring town to visit an orphanage director I know! There is actually a McDonalds there and we are very much looking forward to it!!!!!! Then for even more excitement - we are having a party for the orphanage on Thursday and having court on Friday! Jeff will be heading home Saturday - while Julie and I wait for our 10 days and do the medical/vsa thing! We are hoping and praying for everything to work ou for us to be home on 12/19!!!!!!!!
All is going well here and our team is AWESOME!!! I couldn't ask for any better!
Hope to update you on Friday with our official news! :) Please keep praying!
However tomorrow will be special as we are heading to a neighboring town to visit an orphanage director I know! There is actually a McDonalds there and we are very much looking forward to it!!!!!! Then for even more excitement - we are having a party for the orphanage on Thursday and having court on Friday! Jeff will be heading home Saturday - while Julie and I wait for our 10 days and do the medical/vsa thing! We are hoping and praying for everything to work ou for us to be home on 12/19!!!!!!!!
All is going well here and our team is AWESOME!!! I couldn't ask for any better!
Hope to update you on Friday with our official news! :) Please keep praying!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
The green-eyed monster....
We had a great day at the orphanage today! Even had the opportunity to skype home so that V could see the kids and they got to see him. It was too loud to talk as we had extra kids to spend time with us!
For most of our visit, V was doing fine - but then towards the end he became a little jealous of all the time that mom and dad were spending playing with the other kids. When I it was time to go, two girls grabbed my hands and V got upset. I had Victor tell him that we were his parents and we loved him the most, but these children had no one. He still didn't like it much...
It is amazing how very much these children soak up any attention! They are like a dried up flower needing water and when you talk to them, show an interest and affection - you can see such a difference in them, the light inside turns on and they bloom. I hope I never get callous to their need.
We won't get to see the kids tomorrow, we have some paperwork to get done. I am all for whatever it takes to get things rolling as well as a break in the routine! We have about 4 1/2 hours a day occupied and the rest is down time. For those coming - bring anything you can think of to do!
Tomorrow is a critical day for us - we will know then how things stand and IF we get to have court on Friday. We are praying very hard - hoping for good news and that it all comes together! I am hoping my next post is a joyous one!
For most of our visit, V was doing fine - but then towards the end he became a little jealous of all the time that mom and dad were spending playing with the other kids. When I it was time to go, two girls grabbed my hands and V got upset. I had Victor tell him that we were his parents and we loved him the most, but these children had no one. He still didn't like it much...
It is amazing how very much these children soak up any attention! They are like a dried up flower needing water and when you talk to them, show an interest and affection - you can see such a difference in them, the light inside turns on and they bloom. I hope I never get callous to their need.
We won't get to see the kids tomorrow, we have some paperwork to get done. I am all for whatever it takes to get things rolling as well as a break in the routine! We have about 4 1/2 hours a day occupied and the rest is down time. For those coming - bring anything you can think of to do!
Tomorrow is a critical day for us - we will know then how things stand and IF we get to have court on Friday. We are praying very hard - hoping for good news and that it all comes together! I am hoping my next post is a joyous one!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Same day, different date...
We are at the phase of the journey that each day is the same as the previous and the one to come....I love seeing the children but the routine gets monotinous. Julie and I only have another probable 17 days of it...
Today we did get to meet some other children, a couple of them that are coming to Indiana in late December. Yulia is adorable, an older girl with 3 siblings - she is quiet but seems to be really sweet! Denys Y also seems to be a really sweetie! I have seen a couple of the others but not enough to make any impression. I think we should have time tomorrow. For now we sit in a room and play with the kids. We have a backpack that has some games and I brought some old video games with me - as you would guess those are the biggest hit with the boys or girls!
We also got to see some art the children made - very interesting and some quite beautiful! We also got to see V's room and his bed. He is so sweet!!! He is just so happy to have a family...he sits by us and sometimes he will just smile and lay his head on us. He is very snuggly with me and sometimes with Jeff but he really likes to tickle and be a boy with his daddy. He has made it clear he is very ready to go home and has not a moment's hesitation about it.
We should know on Monday if things will continue to go well. Please keep praying! I enjoy being here with the kids buy miss the ones at home. We have had fun emailing and skyping though! They are so funny!
We have become the regulars at the one restaurant in town - it is really good and for 4 of us to eat a big meal is only around $3-5 per person. The taxi we take back and forth from the orphanage to our apartment is pretty inexpensive also - it is around $5 round trip!
I guess for now that is all...I look forward to hearing from you! We have about 4 hours a day that are occupied and about 12 a day that are not! The down time is a killer! Julie and I think we may do some travelling during our 10 day wait - we aren't sure we can handle that much down time for that long of a period!
Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal!
Today we did get to meet some other children, a couple of them that are coming to Indiana in late December. Yulia is adorable, an older girl with 3 siblings - she is quiet but seems to be really sweet! Denys Y also seems to be a really sweetie! I have seen a couple of the others but not enough to make any impression. I think we should have time tomorrow. For now we sit in a room and play with the kids. We have a backpack that has some games and I brought some old video games with me - as you would guess those are the biggest hit with the boys or girls!
We also got to see some art the children made - very interesting and some quite beautiful! We also got to see V's room and his bed. He is so sweet!!! He is just so happy to have a family...he sits by us and sometimes he will just smile and lay his head on us. He is very snuggly with me and sometimes with Jeff but he really likes to tickle and be a boy with his daddy. He has made it clear he is very ready to go home and has not a moment's hesitation about it.
We should know on Monday if things will continue to go well. Please keep praying! I enjoy being here with the kids buy miss the ones at home. We have had fun emailing and skyping though! They are so funny!
We have become the regulars at the one restaurant in town - it is really good and for 4 of us to eat a big meal is only around $3-5 per person. The taxi we take back and forth from the orphanage to our apartment is pretty inexpensive also - it is around $5 round trip!
I guess for now that is all...I look forward to hearing from you! We have about 4 hours a day that are occupied and about 12 a day that are not! The down time is a killer! Julie and I think we may do some travelling during our 10 day wait - we aren't sure we can handle that much down time for that long of a period!
Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Things are going well!!!
Things are going as well as we had hoped! Yesterday we were a bit nervous as the judge is older and has only done 2 adoptions, he was also very busy and was unable to schedule us before mid December. But the good news is he said that we could use another judge to get our court date set! So as of this morning, we are looking at having court on December 4!!! If things go as planned we will be home before Christmas - which is my prayer! Thank you God!!!!!!
Yesterday, our facilitator had the opportunity to talk to "V" about his new name. I had written down the meaning and the "WHY" we wanted to give him a new name and "V" gladly said yes! He is so anxious to get home, he is very excited! The teacher told us that he carries his photo album and letters from us everywhere and shows everyone. She knew about the lipstick kisses, and musical cards! One of "V"'s friends recognized us when we arrived to the orphanage and ran to get him - just by seeing our photos!
Everyone tells us what a good boy he is - which we know, but it is good hearing it! It is so cute to see how happy he is. I will try to post more later - we are heading to the orphanage to visit now. Keep praying!!!
Yesterday, our facilitator had the opportunity to talk to "V" about his new name. I had written down the meaning and the "WHY" we wanted to give him a new name and "V" gladly said yes! He is so anxious to get home, he is very excited! The teacher told us that he carries his photo album and letters from us everywhere and shows everyone. She knew about the lipstick kisses, and musical cards! One of "V"'s friends recognized us when we arrived to the orphanage and ran to get him - just by seeing our photos!
Everyone tells us what a good boy he is - which we know, but it is good hearing it! It is so cute to see how happy he is. I will try to post more later - we are heading to the orphanage to visit now. Keep praying!!!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
I am thankful....
I just realized that today is Thursday - which means it is Thanksgiving! Although there will be no turkey and fixings for us today I do have alot to be thankful for...
I am thankful for a God who loves me beyond my imagination...so much so that He sent His son to die for me.
I am thankful for a saviour that was willing to give His life so that I may live.
I am thankful to have had a family that gave me a Christian foundation.
I am thankful for a husband that loves God and loves me and our family.
I am thankful for all of my beautiful children - both by birth and by adoption.
I am thankful for my soon-to-be son, that we have the blessing of being his family.
I am thankful for my friends, both old and new.
I am thankful for my job - I love what I do and can't imagine doing anything else at this point. I love working with the children....and being able to see their lives changed.
I am thankful for my home, especially in seeing the conditions so many others live in.
I am thankful for my country - praying that it stays that way!
Being away from my family is hard, but it is a worthy sacrifice. I pray that "V" will someday understand the sacrifice and will have a lot to be thankful for. I pray that he and all the other children I have helped to come home all understand the importance of the opportunity they now have. God has given them all a new start in life, them out of the millions of orphans around the world....I pray that each of them will discover their God-given purpose. My hope is that they will all have the same desire to help orhans and those in need BECAUSE of where they came from.
Have a wonderful and blessed thanksgiving!!!
I
I am thankful for a God who loves me beyond my imagination...so much so that He sent His son to die for me.
I am thankful for a saviour that was willing to give His life so that I may live.
I am thankful to have had a family that gave me a Christian foundation.
I am thankful for a husband that loves God and loves me and our family.
I am thankful for all of my beautiful children - both by birth and by adoption.
I am thankful for my soon-to-be son, that we have the blessing of being his family.
I am thankful for my friends, both old and new.
I am thankful for my job - I love what I do and can't imagine doing anything else at this point. I love working with the children....and being able to see their lives changed.
I am thankful for my home, especially in seeing the conditions so many others live in.
I am thankful for my country - praying that it stays that way!
Being away from my family is hard, but it is a worthy sacrifice. I pray that "V" will someday understand the sacrifice and will have a lot to be thankful for. I pray that he and all the other children I have helped to come home all understand the importance of the opportunity they now have. God has given them all a new start in life, them out of the millions of orphans around the world....I pray that each of them will discover their God-given purpose. My hope is that they will all have the same desire to help orhans and those in need BECAUSE of where they came from.
Have a wonderful and blessed thanksgiving!!!
I
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