IBP Homecoming

I'm so thankful to be home and a family of 6! It's been over 10 days since we've been home. Everyone is transitioning well with the exception of a serious "tummy bug" that swept through part of the Page household. Luckily, Isaiah was spared and has only suffered from a double ear infection. (Poor little guy, that plane ride home must have been miserable). Everyday I am overwhelmed with humility and thankfulness that the Lord has united our family. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

ET Update

Opps...I just realized that I have been updating Facebook, but have neglected my blog. So here's the lowdown...I arrived in ET on Late Thursday night (Nov. 17th). Thankfully only one bag was lost and was recovered in less than 24 hrs. Isaiah was able to move into the guesthouse with me on Saturday. I was a bundle of nervous energy before he arrived. As soon as the car pulled up, I ran outside to greet him. Sweet boy was completely asleep. Nevertheless, after some good snuggle time he was ready to play. He is such a happy little guy; full of life and joy. He is constantly laughing, smiling, making boy noise, and is always on the go. And Oh can this boy eat! I am amazed at how well Isaiah is adjusting to me and a new environment. He has been sleeping great each night (12+ hours) and taking good naps during the day. I am learning so much about him like what makes him laugh, the foods he likes, that way he likes to held, cues to know when he is tired, etc. He has a cute way of telling me that he is hungry by the way he smacks his lips. He sucks his thumb when he's ready to fall asleep. And he has a super silly, squishing face he makes when he's REALLY happy. Too cute!
On Monday afternoon, I payed the Embassy a visit. I asked to speak with Esther so that we could discuss the hold up of our case and to see if there was anything else we could do it speed this process along. She was very nice and professional. She gave me the standard answer, "It just takes time. We need to complete the process by interviewing the police officer in Gonder. I will let you know when a decision is made. Yada yada yada." I wasn't discouraged, but I wasn't encouraged either. Prayer, prayer, and more prayer.

Little guy has been sick for a while. He's had a yucky nose, eyes, and cough. We've spent many hours walking the grounds attached to one another. I'm so thankful for my Eurgo, otherwise my back would be killing me. On Wednesday (Nov. 23rd) we ventured out to the care center to pay the doc a visit. It was so good to have a change of scenery. (MOWA has put some regulations in place in ET about taking your adoptive children in public. You really can only go to privately owned businesses/homes.) We saw the doc and got some meds for his eyes and congestion. After the doc, Belay and Genet met me at one of the houses and allowed me to take part of another family's coffee ceremony. There's nothing like fresh, roasted, Ethiopian coffee. I can't wait for Scott to join me for our coffee ceremony next week. Yep, Scott's joining me on Monday because we CLEARED EMBASSY!!!! ( I can't wait to see my hubby.) I got the email late Wednesday before Embassy closed for the rest of the week, for Thanksgiving. We are hoping to get an appointment on Tuesday or Wednesday to get IBP's visa. We'll head back to Arkansas on the following Saturday, Dec. 3rd. I'm so excited for our family of 6 to be reunited. I've missed my hubby and girls so much!

On Thanksgiving day, Genet and the BJoe ladies prepared a wonderful meal for the families staying at the guest house. Roasted chicken with veggies, mashed cheesey potatoes, mac-n-cheese, gravy, fresh salad with mint, and dessert. Funny story....I was in charge of mixing and baking the brownies. I mixed the batch and told the girls to turn on the oven to 350 degrees. Genet said, "Well, our oven only goes to 250 degrees." I assured her that it would eventually cook and it would take a little longer. I went on to change Isaiah's diaper. I made my way back to the kitchen and noticed the brownies were burning and completely hard. We were all puzzled, but didn't think much about it. At dinner we were talking about the brownie incident and realized that I was talking Fahrenheit and the oven here is Celsius. Needless to say we had "brownie brittle." Thankfully, the Robbin's had ordered 2 cakes to enjoy after our meal. This wasn't the first Thanksgiving dessert that I have ruined.

I've missed Scott and the girls more than I can truly express. It has emotionally and physically harder than I expected. I've never prayed so much and cried so much. However, I wouldn't change our decision for a minute. I know without a doubt this is where I need to be, with our son. I feel like I am making up for lost time. This time of bonding has been such a gift. I am so thankful that there is an ending in sight for the Page's. Please continue to pray for our family this last week. Pray that all involved will have the strength that only the Lord can give. And I can't help but ask for prayers of strength for the families that are yet to complete this process. My heart goes out to them. I know "He is faithful and He will do it.".

Weathering the Storm

Well....... after weeks and weeks of prayer Scott and I made a crazy decision. I am getting on a plane next Wednesday, Nov. 16th, heading to ET. (We have good friends, the Robbin's, who are traveling to court, I'm jumping on the plane with them) You guessed it, I'm going to be with our little man, Isaiah Biruk until we clear Embassy. It's been 3 1/2 months since we've held him and it's been almost 2 months since he's been legally ours. Yep, we both agree- it's time for him to be with his family. We bought me a one way ticket, with no return! Scary thought, but I have an complete peace! I know God is at work and I am going to step back and let Him do His thing. One reason I am going over early is are to take custody of Isaiah. He can move into the guesthouse with me. So Exciting! We'll be able to start the bonding process and maybe even work through some of those "initial issues and struggles" before we venture home. Another reason......Embassy. I will be willing and available for whatever they need to help this process along. After all, they look to both me and Scott as his parents. Why shouldn't one of us be there with him, right? The hope is for Scott to join me sometime after Thanksgiving, when there is progress made and we can come home. It hurts to think I could potentially be away from my 3 girls and hubby for 1, 2 , 3 or 4 weeks. However, I know God will use the time to strength all of us and build our faith. That's exciting! We have 2 sets of wonderful grandparents that live locally and a community of friends that have risen to the occasion to help. I feel so blessed to live in community with these people....they all are like family! I know when Scott meets me in ET, the girls will be in good hands! Until then, please keep our family in your prayers. Pray for Scott and the girls that God's peace and joy will sustain them as the days get long. Pray for strength for me, I know I will eventually come off the "adrenaline rush" and get weary without my family, especially my sweet hubby. Please pray for Embassy's favor on our case. I know this last bit of the race may get tough, but it's all worth it. It is definitely all worth it!

"Showered with Love and Kindness"

Sunday was such a special day! It started with the morning, at community worship, where we were asked to introduce our little man and share where we are in the adoption process. After sharing, there was a special time of prayer over our family as we finish the last grueling leg of this process. (Boy, do we need it!) The afternoon consisted of a beautiful shower celebrating Isaiah Biruk. Friends and family showered me with gift cards, notes of encouragement, endearing hugs, compassion, and gifts for Isaiah. My sweet friends hosted the most wonderful celebration in honor of our little man. The personal touches were heart warming. In the center of the delicious table of food were Africa shaped sugar cookies glazed with (my favorite) turquoise icing. Scattered among the house were enlarged black and white pictures of Isaiah. A variety of world globes were present as a reminder of his heritage. A cute plaid "A line" tent was pitched in the living room to hold the gifts (this was made by my dear, talented friend Corrie). Cuteness! Rosie has already informed me that when bubba gets home they will have a "sweep over in that cute tent." Did I mention how talented and creative my friends are? They had everyone sign and decorate a globe for his room! The globe was laced with verses, signatures, sweet words, love symbols, etc. So, so special! Thank you to my wonderful friends and family for showering our family with such love and kindness.

Sweet hostess friends

Delicious!

A prayerful reminder that he will be in our arms again

Love this!

Three generations (Rosie was napping) of girls:

"Gigi" Sallie Fleming, Mollie Fleming Page, Kenzie Page, and Meme Page

Happy Birthday IBP!

Happy 1st birthday to our sweet, Isaiah! Oh how it kills me to not be with you today. I am comforted to know God is watching over you every minute of everyday. He has given you a group of wonderful ladies to take care of you, until you are in our arms. Your "special mothers" care for you deeply; I am so thankful for them. Your life, sweet boy, has given us a greater understanding of God's love. You see, we are all adopted sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father. My prayer is that others will see God's love through your story, as well. As you grow, I pray that you will understand that you are wonderfully created and that God has a beautiful plan for your life. I pray that you will know how deep, how high, and how wide is Christ's love and that you will walk intimately with God all the days of your life. Isaiah Biruk Page, we love you and can't wait to get you home. This will be the last birthday that we miss, I promise.

Happy Birthday, Rosie!

Happy Birthday to the sweetest and sassiest 3 year old I know! Your ice blue eyes and rosy cheeks melt my heart. You have added a whole new dimension to accessorizing. Beads, bows, bags, and bling....you are the ultimate princess. I pray that you will understand the depth of God's love; the sacrifice that Jesus made for you, so that you could be HIS princess. I love to hear your prayers to "Gosus" (A special name created by you for your Creator. FYI...cross between God-Jesus) and I know HE loves to hear your prayers even more than I do! It warms my heart to see you reading and "highlighting" in your Bible, just like Daddy and Mommy. I pray that you will treasure those words in your heart and be bold enough to share them with others. I want you to know that you bring so much joy to my life; it is a privilege to be your Mommy. I love you with all my heart, Rosebud! Happy Day!

It's Officially Official!

We got the call today (at 3:44 to be exact) that WE ARE HIS AND HE IS OURS! We are the very proud parents of Isaiah Biruk Page. Within minutes of meeting him, our hearts were in love and forever connected. We love you, IBP, and can't wait to bring you home!

On My Mind......

AND OF COURSE..........

Raw and Reality

It's been nearly 2 weeks since we've been home from ET. Since our return, we have been focusing most of our time on the girls. Swimming, school shopping, games, snuggles, a trip to the family farm, etc. Oh how we missed the girls while we were gone! School is now in full swing and the craziness of life begins once again. However, this Fall season my perspective has shifted. My life is forever changed. As I type the words, tears stream down my cheeks. (FYI....I cried everyday in ET and everyday since I have been home. Ask my hubby, I'm not a crier.) I wasn't crying for my son because I know he is in a good situation, in a care center where people are loving and caring for him. I know IBP will be with us one day real soon; we all can't wait for that day! You see I was crying for the multitude of people that I saw. The ones that appear to have no help or no hope. It's overwhelming, it's so overwhelming! Here is just some of what we encountered.....

make shift houses

sick, hungry children begging

women with their babies living on every street corner

disabled and elderly begging

the smell of exhaust

gentle, friendly people

people sleeping everywhere

public urination

orphanages with no grass, no carpet, no toys

orphanages that smell like vomit and urine

children asking me to be their mommy

a trash city that houses 75,000 people

a trash dump used as a food source for many

lepers

aids victims

women carrying heavy loads of Eucalyptus

hurt

desperation

children longing for affection

adults longing to be accepted

filth

deep loss

devastation

It's still very raw to me. The sights and the smells. What is raw to me, is reality to these people. Where as they may not know the difference, I do! I know the difference! Once again, I am firmly convinced that the Lord has blessed us so that we can be a blessing to others. We are not rich compared to the "Western World's" standards. However, I am feeling quite wealthy compared to the "Rest of the World's" standards. For the Page's, we are praying that our family will be used in ET for HIS glory. We want to be apart of something bigger than ourselves. While in Et, Scott and I were able to meet some amazing individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of their community. I love that they have a passion for the country of ET and their people. These are the people I want to come behind and support! They are changing one life at a time. They are true heros of this age!!!!

A quick update: We have seen God's hand in this adoption process every step of the way. IBP is and will be such a blessing to our family. (In fact, once in ET, we learned that our son's name actually means "Blessed.") We received word this week that our MOWA letter has been issued and is at court. However, we don't know what type of opinion MOWA issued on our behalf and the judge was unable to review our case before courts closed. So we wait......we were told that we may not hear anything until after rainy season. I'm still praying for a miracle. I would love to have our little man home before his first birthday in October. Regardless...it's about perspective. My perspective is forever changed.

Beyond Words

There really aren't words that can correctly describe our time in ET with our little guy. I will attempt..... Our time with IBP was priceless. From the moment we saw him, he smiled, laughed, hugged, and smooched us. We were overwhelmed with such an affectionate welcoming from our little man. We were able to visit him three times that week. We treasured every minute of the visits. ( FYI...his cheeks are irresistible, I could not stop kissing them.) We filled our hours with play time (he loves little piggies), snuggles, feeding, and more snuggles. Our final visit, on Friday, was more than difficult. As Scott prayed over our son, the tears started flowing for both of us. As I looked up, his Special Mothers were completely touched by our emotion and love for this little guy. They did not comfort us with words but with a sincere embrace and a compassionate demeanor. I was reminded once again that the universal language that all understands is LOVE. Without a doubt, I know he is loved deeply by his Special Mothers. They kiss his hands and cheeks, calling him by a special nick name. It did my heart good to see this first hand. It gave me peace as I walked out of his room on Friday. I look forward to the day that we can hold that chubby hand again. I'm praying without ceasing that it will be much sooner than later.

And We're Off!

In just a few hours, we will board a plane that will take us across the world to meet our son for the first time. It's finally hit...I'm a bundle of nervous energy. Physically I am totally exhausted but emotionally I am completely energized. Bags have been strategically packed, including humanitarian aid, weighing a little under 50 pounds each (that was a tricky). Documents have been notarized and passports are in place. The kids are taken care of (thanks to my sweet sister, grandparents and friends), the camera is charged. Yep, I think we're ready! I can't wait to snuggle him, kiss his sweet cheeks, and hold his chubby hands. Our court date is August 2nd. I'm really hoping that MOWA will issue a positive opinion on our case and many others before August 2nd. How great would that be? Regardless, the Lord continues to show me that He's got this. I am forever grateful.

Birthday Gift

Have I ever mentioned what precious friends I have? Well, they are amazing! They each know how crazy my life has gotten since the news of the court date. (2 days until take off! Woohoo!) At 10:00 pm they came to my house, cake in hand, in hopes of celebrating my day in such a special way. You see while it's 10:00 pm in Arkansas, it's the start of a new day in ET. The morning of 7/27, which is my birthday. This is an important day in ET. Today our file will be submitted to MOWA. Today IBP's birth mom is scheduled to appear before a judge and relinquish her rights to her son. My heart hurts for her. When I begin to think of all the details that actually have to fall into place, I start to get anxious. My friends know this. So after cake and coffee, we got on our knees and prayed for what's to come. We prayed boldly, with faith and confidence that the Lord will hear our prayers and answer them accordingly. We know He is faithful and will do this! Thanks to my sweet friends for such a special gift. Love ya'll!

COURT DATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

God moved the mountain alright! We got word this afternoon that we have a court date for August 2nd. Yipee!!!!!! We have to be in ET by July 31st. Talk about craziness! Less than two weeks until we meet our son. My heart is so full, PRAISE THE LORD!

"Mountain Mover"

" I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain , 'Go, throw yourself into the sea, and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

Jesus Christ

*Matt 21:21-22

Keeping Busy......

Post referral.....I'm trying to remain busy. I have updated all my CIS documents, applied for passports for the girls, printed and framed pictures of our little man, signed referral documents and checked them twice, and am now starting on IBP's (initials) room. This week I sent off a small care package by way of a fellow adoptive Mom, that will be traveling to ET next week. Rosie picked out the clothes for "Bubba." I had to convince her that blue was a better option than pink. I printed off pictures of the family and placed them in an soft infant photo book, in hopes that IBP will become familiar with our faces. Of course, we had to include something soft to snuggle. Buying "boy stuff" was really fun and a new experience for me. I look forward to the days he will be riding in the cart, shopping with me. Until then......I will continue to pray and keep busy.

"Hands and Feet"

It's been three weeks since the referral. Three crazy busy weeks! School is now out for the summer and we are in full swing. The ending of the school year was bitter sweet. I tend to always get "reflective" at the end of each year. It's fun to see how each child has grown and matured within the year, thinking back over the highlights of the year.... the ups the downs. I always wonder how a school year can be gone in the blink of an eye. It truly makes me want to make the most of every opportunity. At the starting of the school year, we all were thinking that we would have our little man home for the summer. Boy, did we miss that one! We were told that when you are dealing with adoption, especially international, delays and set backs could occur. Well, they did! So here we are today continuing in the wait. Waiting for a court date. Preparing to hit the "rainy season", which could delay us 6 or more weeks. I relish in the fact that I have a sweet face that I can call by name. I find myself pouring over the pictures and studying all his features, getting to know him from afar. Praying like I have never prayed before; trusting God and releasing all expectations and control. To be honest, I'm not really sure how I would score if I were to be graded, but I am continuing in the process of trusting and releasing. Throughout the year, my prayers have changed. I am focusing less our timeline and more on God's. Sure, I pray like crazy to get him home sooner than later, but I have been more focused on HIS will and not my own. Has it been hard? You bet it has! It has been a daily reminder to release the control. One of my prayers has been that God would PLEASE bring people (ANYONE) that would be the "hands and feet" to hold him, love him, calm him, and tell him that he is precious. Something so sweet happened over the last two weeks. We have a family friend, Matt, who traveled to ET to do a documentary regarding orphan care. He was able to go and hang out with our little guy- to be the "hands and feet." He took lots of beautiful pics and even recorded a video. It was great to be able to ask him questions like: Does he have teeth yet? Is he happy? Does he sit up? You can only imagine my questions! ( As a side note, he couldn't say enough about the care that Gladney gives to the children. Absolute wonderful care! ) Our friend gave us a play by play of our little man..recalling every detail he could remember. It was such a sweet gift to us. Once again, I am amazed and reminded that God has got this!

"The Call"

Wow, where it begin?????? It was Wednesday afternoon around 2:15, and my phone rang. It was my sweet friend who is adopting from ET using Gladney, as well. We began our "daily/weekly process" about our adoptions, new emails received from Gladney, changes in ET, etc. (Adoption therapy, if you will.) As our conversation came to an end, we had resolved (as we always do) God is in control, release the time line, trust, and pray. I hung up the phone; Rosie and I quickly headed out the door to pick up Kenzie from school. As I was driving, the reality was setting in that this long process could indeed get only longer. I must say I was a little discouraged, but had determined that I was not going to let the unknown consume me. My gears quickly shifted....Life. One daughter called to let me know she had arrived a friends house, one sent a text wondering why I was late for pick up, and the other (seated behind me) wanted all of my attention. I proceeded along as normal, picked up Kenz, and began to hear all about her day. My phone began ringing once again, but this time it was the coveted 817 area code. Immediately my heart started pounding, my hands began shaking and Kenzie and I started screaming with excitement. I composed myself and answered the phone. All I could say was ..."No Way." Kristin, our case worker, laughed and replied, "Yes, your referral is ready and HE IS ADORABLE!" I quickly called Scott to tell him the good news and make arrangements. I was really hoping for the "Norman Rockwell Referral." You know the one....the whole family gathered the computer, video camera rolling, music in the background, excitement, tears, a perfect moment. Well, this was not going to happen. Scott was in Joplin, Missouri helping out with the tornado relief. Furthermore, he had patchy cell phone reception, no computer, and was not going to be home until much later that evening. After talking with Kristin and Scott, we decided that the girls and I would preview the pictures and I would hear his story that afternoon. When Scott got home, we would process the information and ooh and awe over the pictures together. Everyone was happy with the plan. Once picking up Meme from her friends house, we called Kristin and settled in front of the computer. Waiting for the email to open felt like an eternity. Finally, it opened! Staring right at us was the most beautiful "little 7 month old boy" I have ever seen. No seriously... he is so cute! It was love at first sight! The girls and I squealed with excitement, as we looked through the pictures. He has big, brown, almond shaped eyes and the cutest smile. We were so encouraged because in most of the pictures he is grinning from ear to ear. You can just tell by the pictures that he has such a big personality. He and his daddy will be like two peas in a pod; those of you who know Scott will agree! Our little guy was perfect! Hours later, Scott pulled in the driveway. We couldn't wait to share these moments with him. Tears, excitement, joy all over again. Daddy would agree...true love and connection immediately. We now have a name and a beautiful face. It's completely surreal. I have heard others say that; now I know what they mean. Our sweet doctor came over to review his files and share in the excitement. I couldn't wait to email Kristin and tell her "We ACCEPT!" From 7:30-10:00 that evening family and friends entered our house and shared in the joy of seeing our son. The child we have all been praying for, dreaming about, and pursuing. The child we will continue (no matter how long it takes) to pray for, dream about, and pursue. Little man, you are well worth the wait!

Oh Happiness!!!! Referral!!!!

We finally got "the call" today!!!!!!!! The most beautiful 7 month old little man I have ever seen! Love at first sight-truly!!! There really aren't words to describe it. There will be more details in the next day or so, I promise. Until then.....my cup overflows!!!!!!!!!!

We just finished celebrating Scott's 40th b-day in the "Windy City."( Thanks to all of our friends and family that helped in planning and keeping this a surprise. Lying for the sake of surprise doesn't count, right?) We started our trip with an over night visit with my sis in St. Louis. Early the next morning, we jumped on the Amtrak that took us right into the heart of Chicago. We took up residence, for 4 days, in a most modern 40 story hotel where everything imaginable was at our fingertips. The yummiest restaurants and most trendy stores were in walking distance. ( I have never eaten so much and walked so much in my entire life. Loved it!) Each day brought something new an exciting...... Cubs vs Cards at Wrigley Field, the Art Institute, the Magnificent Mile, Garrett's popcorn, bike rides along Lakeshore Dr, Lincoln Park, crazy taxi rides, Navy Pier, Lake Michigan, riding the "L", Millineum Park, and so much more. It was just what the doctor ordered: energizing and refreshing! During our stay, we crossed into the 13 MONTH marker of waiting. Truly, I never thought we would be here with NO referral, but we are and there is absolutely nothing I can do about it! So... I reside to wait with joy and pray with anticipation of the future and what's to come. I don't want to miss out on the blessing of my amazing husband and beautiful children under my roof. Perspective....that's what I feel like the Lord has given me right now and I am thankful!

Death has NO Sting!

I am so thankful to our Lord, who endured the cross for me (and you). Perfection who carried the weight of the world on His shoulders. Grace beyond measure. Love so deep and wide. Forgiveness removed as far as the east is from the west. Good news......

"But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. ...The Lord has risen indeed.."

Luke 24:1-2, 34

Thanks be to our Lord Jesus, Death has No sting!

Twelve

Hoping for some good news real soon!!!! Ring, baby, ring!

Quote of the day....

" Praise be to the Lord, for he heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. The Lord is the strength of his people."

Psalm 28:6-8a

Enough said.....

Eleven

Eleven months of waiting...officially. Sadly, I feel that we are no where close to the end of our process. There are so many unknowns. This I know..."God is good, He is gracious, and He can move mountains. His ways are much higher than my ways. " So.... I will BE STILL and WAIT on the Lord.

Happy 13th B-day!

Happy, happy birthday to our sweet MacKenzie! I really can't believe your are entering in the "teen" years. Your smile warms our hearts. Your grateful heart is a breath of fresh air. Your determination is inspiring! Daddy and I are so, so blessed to be called your parents. "Sweet girl, as you enter a new season of childhood, I pray that you would love Jesus more than you ever have. I pray that you will be able to feel His presence and grace in everyday situations- whether big or small. I pray for boldness in your words and the way you live your life. Remember God did not give you a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and self-discipline. Always, always remember love- it never fails." Kenz, we are so proud of you. We love you more than you'll ever know- ever!

No. 10

Pure White Fun!

Fun Daddy!

Hold on!

Mommies like to have fun, too.

My "Love Lump."

Now you see me......

Now you don't!

Note to self......Rosie is not a fan of snow. Maybe next year?

Tired?

When I get tired, weary, empty, or should I say....HAVE JUST HAD ENOUGH! I am so thankful that my gracious "Father" does not feel the same.

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Isaiah 40:28-31

CAN I GET AN AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"MT. WASHMORE"

1 Trip to St. Louis

2 Snow days

3 Sick peeps

4 Evening Commitments

5 Days Neglected

__________________

= "MT. WASHMORE"

Just looking for a little humor in the situation................Ughhhhhhh!

It's that time...again!

Reeaally? I thought I had just finished all of the paperwork for the adoption? I can't believe it's already time to start the "process of updating." Physicals, clearances, fingerprints, homestudy, etc. Well, on the bright side....this will keep my hands busy and my mind off of the lack of referrals these days. The clock is ticking....... Wednesday marks NINE MONTHS of waiting. I just know we're getting closer with each passing day!

New Beginnings

I love the start of a new year. It's a new beginning, a clean slate. I usually start with a "purge session" where I attempt to make order of my world. I look into each closet and drawer and evaluate the items at hand. As I begin to let go of the "stuff" that clutters and cramps my surroundings, a sense of clarity comes over me. Now, there are those closets that are not as easy to purge. You know the ones! For whatever reason, it's harder to release what's inside. But once I do release them, a burden is lifted. There is room to breathe; it's then can I begin to organize and prioritize the things that are of value. It was in my closet two days ago, that I was impressed with what God wants to accomplish with my heart. He wants to purge the things that are not of Him or from Him. You see, I am carrying unnecessary burdens . Burdens that are cluttering my life...burdens that I have the option to release. For whatever reason, I hold on to them. He wants me to release them....purge them. I have areas in my life full of insecurities, pride, control, you name it. Those things need to go, I have no need for them! Like my closets, this will be a continual process-keeping those unnecessary items out of my life. The temptation will always be there..... to fall into my old ways. I will need to dismiss those urges and cling to "the one" who knows me best. My prayer for this year is that He would continue the work He has started in my life- cleaning out those dark places. I want to grow closer to Jesus each day, with my heart attitude reflecting Him. I am so thankful that my God doesn't treat me as my sin deserves. His mercies are new each day! Cheers.... to a new beginning!