I can't even begin to express my gratitude to all of you who emailed me privately about my last post. Not only has it been humbling to admit that I was sort of silently flipping out after (really)researching Spina Bifida-- I mean up until now I just always saw Alexsey for Alexsey-- and not any of his potential health problems, but it has also been hard to admit that despite my faith in our almighty God, I still fear, I still doubt, I still want to cling to the comfort of this world, I still want to back up when it feels like I am about to step out of the boat. Thank you for helping me to realize that not dwelling on Alexsey's Spina Bifida is exactly the right thing to do.
I know that in my heart.
I still remember his innocent and flirtatious smile-- that curious side of him that wants to explore the world around him but has never been given the chance. It is the little boy behind that smile that I want to focus on-- not anything else.
Alexsey is perfect in God's eyes, and I need to push out of my mind all the "what ifs" and "but hows."
Lord, I thank you for providing me the reassurance and encouragement that I needed today.
Be with Alexsey, and all of my children-- always.
Showing posts with label encouragement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label encouragement. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Ring Ring!
Early this morning, I got the call from our agency---------- God willing, we are having our paperwork submitted on Monday, June 15th! I am thinking we will be traveling sometime in July!
Praise the Lord!
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" Proverbs 3:5
Praise the Lord!
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" Proverbs 3:5
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Not a Day..........
Not a day goes by where I don't think about Alexsey. It sounds crazy, but it's like I envision him standing next to me soaking up family life------ just waiting for me to turn to him and include him in our family. I can't wait till that day. Funny how when we sit down to eat dinner, often times we look around the table and feel like someone is missing. That person is Alexsey! I just have to trust that he will be home before we know it. Miracles happen---- and I wouldn't put it past God to go and surprise us with some great news. I see every day how us waiting for now has been the right thing. This month is incredibly busy for us------ next month would be better.
Please join me in prayer that July is the month we get to go see Alexsey's precious face.
It could happen.
Please join me in prayer that July is the month we get to go see Alexsey's precious face.
It could happen.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Preparing Me
Adoption is not an easy road. That is so hard for me to understand. My own logic says that there is a need and when a family is willing to step up and care for a child it should be immediate because the child is already born. Why is it necessary to go through all of the paperwork, all of the doctor appointments, fingerprinting, blah, blah, blah, blah? If I chose to have a biological child, I would not have to jump through so many hoops. I do realize that because it is often harder for someone to care for a child that is not of their own flesh and blood it is good to "check" them out, but after that part is done, I do not think anyone can get me to understand the point of waiting. Like with Alexsey. We have been approved to adopt and have managed to supply every piece of documentation that is needed, so why can't we just go and get our son and bring him home?
I have wrestled with this for many years--- and have failed to come up with any answers that really make sense to me until now. Last night, while reading a book, I found this verse on Faith and Endurance. It is about building character and as I read it, a light bulb went off.
James 1:2-4 (New Living Translation)
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
Adoption comes with its own challenges even if they only happen to be the language and culture barrier. Realistically, any adoptive family will face many more challenges before life feels "normal." Being tested with the paperwork, the waiting, the unknown, and the adoption process itself is a chance to get closer to God... a chance to grow. I look at it as a lesson on patience.... something our Heavenly Lord knows we will need alot of once our children are home. How wise is that? If adoption was very quick and easy, I think we would get way more overwhelmed than what we already are when our children first come home. That time spent doing the paperwork gets us ready for all of those new medical enrollment forms, school enrollment forms, homework, and insurance forms. Dealing with all of the crazy delays, paperwork requests, and endless changes in the process prepare us for parenting. During this wait, we are given the opportunity to pray for our children---- a priceless gift to give to our soon to be child.
With every adoption journey we have been on, we have always been blessed in the end. James 1:12 says, "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
God will not let me down.
Dear Lord,
Please be with Alexsey tonight and always.
I have wrestled with this for many years--- and have failed to come up with any answers that really make sense to me until now. Last night, while reading a book, I found this verse on Faith and Endurance. It is about building character and as I read it, a light bulb went off.
James 1:2-4 (New Living Translation)
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.
Adoption comes with its own challenges even if they only happen to be the language and culture barrier. Realistically, any adoptive family will face many more challenges before life feels "normal." Being tested with the paperwork, the waiting, the unknown, and the adoption process itself is a chance to get closer to God... a chance to grow. I look at it as a lesson on patience.... something our Heavenly Lord knows we will need alot of once our children are home. How wise is that? If adoption was very quick and easy, I think we would get way more overwhelmed than what we already are when our children first come home. That time spent doing the paperwork gets us ready for all of those new medical enrollment forms, school enrollment forms, homework, and insurance forms. Dealing with all of the crazy delays, paperwork requests, and endless changes in the process prepare us for parenting. During this wait, we are given the opportunity to pray for our children---- a priceless gift to give to our soon to be child.
With every adoption journey we have been on, we have always been blessed in the end. James 1:12 says, "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."
God will not let me down.
Dear Lord,
Please be with Alexsey tonight and always.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Prayer Warriors Unite!
So many of you are praying. It is so evident. Thank you. No, I cannot tell you that we are any closer to submitting our paperwork, but I can tell you that I am more at peace with the wait. And I am taking it one day at a time. It is God's timing, not ours......
Lord, please do not make Alexsey wait too much longer. Isn't it time for Him to come home?
Please hear our prayers--- each and every one of them.... and unite all orphans with their waiting families.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all you heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will keep your paths straight.
Lord, please do not make Alexsey wait too much longer. Isn't it time for Him to come home?
Please hear our prayers--- each and every one of them.... and unite all orphans with their waiting families.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all you heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will keep your paths straight.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
WAIT
"WAIT"
Author Unknown
Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried: Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied. I plead and I wept for a clue to my fate, And the Master so gently said, "Child, you must wait."
"Wait? You say, wait!" my indignant reply. "Lord, I need answers, I need to know why! Is Your hand shortened? Or have You not heard? By faith, I have asked, and am claiming Your Word.
My future and all to which I can relate hangs in the balance, and You tell me to wait?
I'm needing a "Yes", a go-ahead sign, or even a "No" to which I can resign.
And Lord, You promised that if we believe we need but to ask, and we shall receive. And Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry: "I'm weary of asking! I need a reply!
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate as my Master replied once again "You must wait." So, I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut and grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting...for what?"
He seemed, then, to kneel and His eyes wept with mine, and He tenderly said "I could give you a sign. I could shake the heavens, and darken the sun. I could raise the dead, and cause mountains to run.
All you seek, I could vie, and please you would be. You would have what you want - but, you wouldn't know Me. You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint; You'd not know the power I give to the faint.
You'd not learn to see through the clouds of despair; You'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there; You'd not know the joy of resting in Me; When the darkness and silence were all you could see.
You'd never experience the fullness of love as the peace of My Spirit descends like a dove; You'd know that I five and I Save, for a start, but you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
The flow of my comfort late into the night, the faith that I give when you walk without sight, the depth that's beyond getting just what you asked of an infinite God, who makes what you have last.
You'd never know, should your pain quickly flee, what it means that "My grace is sufficient for thee." Yes, your dreams for your loved one overnight would come true,
But, Oh, the Loss! If I lost what I'm doing in you!
So, be silent, My child, and in time you will see that the greatest of gifts is to get to know Me. And though oft' may My answers seem terribly late, My most precious answer of all is still, "Wait."
Will today be the day Father?
Author Unknown
Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried: Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied. I plead and I wept for a clue to my fate, And the Master so gently said, "Child, you must wait."
"Wait? You say, wait!" my indignant reply. "Lord, I need answers, I need to know why! Is Your hand shortened? Or have You not heard? By faith, I have asked, and am claiming Your Word.
My future and all to which I can relate hangs in the balance, and You tell me to wait?
I'm needing a "Yes", a go-ahead sign, or even a "No" to which I can resign.
And Lord, You promised that if we believe we need but to ask, and we shall receive. And Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry: "I'm weary of asking! I need a reply!
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate as my Master replied once again "You must wait." So, I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut and grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting...for what?"
He seemed, then, to kneel and His eyes wept with mine, and He tenderly said "I could give you a sign. I could shake the heavens, and darken the sun. I could raise the dead, and cause mountains to run.
All you seek, I could vie, and please you would be. You would have what you want - but, you wouldn't know Me. You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint; You'd not know the power I give to the faint.
You'd not learn to see through the clouds of despair; You'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there; You'd not know the joy of resting in Me; When the darkness and silence were all you could see.
You'd never experience the fullness of love as the peace of My Spirit descends like a dove; You'd know that I five and I Save, for a start, but you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
The flow of my comfort late into the night, the faith that I give when you walk without sight, the depth that's beyond getting just what you asked of an infinite God, who makes what you have last.
You'd never know, should your pain quickly flee, what it means that "My grace is sufficient for thee." Yes, your dreams for your loved one overnight would come true,
But, Oh, the Loss! If I lost what I'm doing in you!
So, be silent, My child, and in time you will see that the greatest of gifts is to get to know Me. And though oft' may My answers seem terribly late, My most precious answer of all is still, "Wait."
Will today be the day Father?
Monday, May 11, 2009
Patiently Waiting
We are waiting for our dossier to be submitted. It would be awesome if that happened this month---- this week even better yet. I know many of you are waiting too. Since we are waiting together, why don't we pray together too? May God move mountains this month of May. Meditate on His word day and night, and you will see His provision hour by hour. Before we know it, the wait will be over and our children will be in our arms!
Habakkuk 2:3 (New Living Translation)
This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed.
Isaiah 40:31 (New Living Translation)
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Psalm 69:13 (New Living Translation)
But I keep praying to you, Lord, hoping this time you will show me favor. In your unfailing love, O God, answer my prayer with your sure salvation.
Habakkuk 2:3 (New Living Translation)
This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed.
Isaiah 40:31 (New Living Translation)
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Psalm 69:13 (New Living Translation)
But I keep praying to you, Lord, hoping this time you will show me favor. In your unfailing love, O God, answer my prayer with your sure salvation.
Friday, May 8, 2009
All For the Glory of God
I really am not at liberty to share the details yet, but amazing things are happening on the adoption front. (insert huge smile) Your prayers are helping to move mountains in more ways than one. Thank you so much. Thank you too for all that have given of your time and money to help bring Alexsey home. Some of you have sent words of encouragement, t-shirts to show your support.... some of you hand made items that were sold in the silent auction, went out of your way to call and express your support........ one very sweet friend even sent me a Starbucks giftcard of hers when I vowed to forgo coffee, carwashes, and haircuts. Your show of support has made for quite a story--- which I have shared with anyone that is willing to listen. God's plan goes so much further than just the adoption of a little boy with spina bifida named Alexsey-- and all of you are a part of it. This journey is a testimony that God still works miracles.
Can I have an Amen?
Can I have an Amen?
Friday, May 1, 2009
I Am Amazed!
Thank you so much to whoever donated over the last two days to Alexsey's adoption! You guys are just incredible. Your willingness to give is a tremendous blessing. I appreciate all that you are doing to help Alexsey home, but as I said earlier I am asking that you please consider giving to this family instead. They are absolutely amazing--- and I know that God has an amazing plan by laying them on my heart. I have been sick the last two days and just barely got on the computer today to catch up on things when I found out about the donations. While I am incredibly thankful, I wanted to remind people about the Landrums and so I went to their blog so that I would be able to link to it and found that they had wrote an adoption update yesterday. Go check it out! They are truly a touching family------ if you get to know them, you will be blessed. Anyway, just wanted to let you guys know that $60.00 has been raised on this family's behalf because people bought adoption decals. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have many more to sell! Only $20 each and they are going for a good cause! Please consider declaring your support for adoption through a decal on your car window! They are beautiful accessory and the money is going for a great cause!
Also, I wanted to give a special thanks to Sally, who was an amazing example of spreading God's grace and love. She had a wonderful idea to help raise money for Alexsey's adoption by raffling off an IPOD, and now I want to do the same for the Landrums. Thank you Sally! You are so sweet!
Also, I wanted to give a special thanks to Sally, who was an amazing example of spreading God's grace and love. She had a wonderful idea to help raise money for Alexsey's adoption by raffling off an IPOD, and now I want to do the same for the Landrums. Thank you Sally! You are so sweet!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
It's On His Time, Not Theirs
On April 7, I overnighted our whole dossier to be apostilled. From what I had been told by others, I was confident that the Secretary of State would process our documents in one day and return them in the overnight envelope I provided. The next day I called up there to see that they got them and they gave me some very disappointing news. They were barely processing mail from nearly two weeks prior and they told me not to expect my documents for at least two weeks. Admittedly I was disappointed by the news, but it was what it was. To add injury to insult, my agency said that I could have overnighted them to a courier they use, and would have had them back in a few days.
Oh well. You live and you learn...... and you pray.
I started calling everyday except for the Monday after Easter, and befriending every clerk in the office to get them familiar with our story. I really don't know if I was just bugging them, or if I actually touched their hearts so that they sped up their productivity so that they could get to our documents. Yesterday I called again in the morning and was informed that they were processing mail for April 7th. They received ours just one day later! Was it possible? They couldn't promise anything, but I continued to pray!
And guess what? I just found out that our documents were processed! PRAISE THE LORD!!!!
Oh well. You live and you learn...... and you pray.
I started calling everyday except for the Monday after Easter, and befriending every clerk in the office to get them familiar with our story. I really don't know if I was just bugging them, or if I actually touched their hearts so that they sped up their productivity so that they could get to our documents. Yesterday I called again in the morning and was informed that they were processing mail for April 7th. They received ours just one day later! Was it possible? They couldn't promise anything, but I continued to pray!
And guess what? I just found out that our documents were processed! PRAISE THE LORD!!!!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Incredible!
Today I finished up our paperwork for our dossier. I am only waiting for our I-600 approval to come in the mail and then I could notarize it, and send it off with the rest of the documents to be apostilled. I can hardly believe it!
I guess that because we are nearly done with our dossier, I have allowed myself to think more about the trip and going back to see Alexsey. It is very exciting to say the least.
I remember what our past trips to Russia and Ukraine were like and I wonder if they will be similar. On our very first trip to Russia back in May, 2005, we met a newlywed couple who was headed off to their honeymoon. At one time in my life, I would have been jealous of them because I was not going on an exciting trip with my new husband. I would have been jealous that I didn't have butterflies in my stomach, head over my heels, excitement of being a brand new bride--- probably the only bride on the plane.
But, I wasn't jealous of them.
Not at all. Because, what I was feeling at that moment was an even more powerful and intimate love for my husband than when I first married him. Afterall, we were about to board a plane never to look back, as we traveled around the world to meet two beautiful children God had chosen for us. Honestly, everytime we have traveled around the world to adopt, it has been the best honeymoon I could ever imagine.
And soon....... very soon, I am going to be traveling with him again.
For most people reading this, they just can't imagine how adopting can be such a memorable experience. Yet hopefully, other fellow adoptive parents can relate and testify that I am not crazy. Adoption is an amazing...... beautiful..... unforgettable...... close as you get to God experience this side of heaven.
It is just as amazing as giving birth to your child........ it is exactly like giving birth to your child.
Alexsey may not have been born of my flesh and blood, but he is very much a part of me, already. I know that I am not capable on my own of preparing my heart to feel the way it feels...... this is a miraculous thing that God does. Knowing this draws me all the closer to Him.
It makes me think how I have been adopted by HIM..... how all of us that want to look to HIM as our Father have been adopted by HIM, and it gives me goosebumps to think that HE feels similar to how I feel about Alexsey. That is incredible to me!
I guess that because we are nearly done with our dossier, I have allowed myself to think more about the trip and going back to see Alexsey. It is very exciting to say the least.
I remember what our past trips to Russia and Ukraine were like and I wonder if they will be similar. On our very first trip to Russia back in May, 2005, we met a newlywed couple who was headed off to their honeymoon. At one time in my life, I would have been jealous of them because I was not going on an exciting trip with my new husband. I would have been jealous that I didn't have butterflies in my stomach, head over my heels, excitement of being a brand new bride--- probably the only bride on the plane.
But, I wasn't jealous of them.
Not at all. Because, what I was feeling at that moment was an even more powerful and intimate love for my husband than when I first married him. Afterall, we were about to board a plane never to look back, as we traveled around the world to meet two beautiful children God had chosen for us. Honestly, everytime we have traveled around the world to adopt, it has been the best honeymoon I could ever imagine.
And soon....... very soon, I am going to be traveling with him again.
For most people reading this, they just can't imagine how adopting can be such a memorable experience. Yet hopefully, other fellow adoptive parents can relate and testify that I am not crazy. Adoption is an amazing...... beautiful..... unforgettable...... close as you get to God experience this side of heaven.
It is just as amazing as giving birth to your child........ it is exactly like giving birth to your child.
Alexsey may not have been born of my flesh and blood, but he is very much a part of me, already. I know that I am not capable on my own of preparing my heart to feel the way it feels...... this is a miraculous thing that God does. Knowing this draws me all the closer to Him.
It makes me think how I have been adopted by HIM..... how all of us that want to look to HIM as our Father have been adopted by HIM, and it gives me goosebumps to think that HE feels similar to how I feel about Alexsey. That is incredible to me!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
When They Get to Heaven
"When we get to heaven and these little ones that you are with are fully restored in body and mind…we too will testify that Jesus is the light of the world as we see they have been healed. They will have gone through trials in this life so that the work of God might be displayed, and I believe our loving God will reward them for it in heaven.
Take heart that Jesus loves them…He created them…He permitted this to happen so that He might receive glory. The story doesn't end in this lifetime. The story doesn't end in hopelessness. The story doesn't end in dark rooms. The story ends in His light which is full of love and salvation. " Written by Ross.
I read this today and had to share it. Having been asked about my strong faith and how I can believe there is a God that allows Alexsey to suffer, I was thankful to come across this. Personally, I know that I draw nearer to God when I am in great pain and or suffering, and it is often during these times that I see God's bigger picture. When I see God's people working together to help these children, I am filled with hope.
Ross also shared this verse.
John 9:1-5 (NIV)
As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
***********************
P.S.
Wow---- what a blessing! $250 more dollars have been donated! I know I sound like a broken record, but really........ thank you. Your prayers, your donations, your encouraging words help to carry me each day when I get caught up in the things of this world. It is a huge reminder to me to focus on what is important because afterall, all of you are too. Everyday that passes, Alexsey is is one day closer to coming home!
By the way, Julia and Dennis have their very own passports so they are set to go! Woo-hooo!
Take heart that Jesus loves them…He created them…He permitted this to happen so that He might receive glory. The story doesn't end in this lifetime. The story doesn't end in hopelessness. The story doesn't end in dark rooms. The story ends in His light which is full of love and salvation. " Written by Ross.
I read this today and had to share it. Having been asked about my strong faith and how I can believe there is a God that allows Alexsey to suffer, I was thankful to come across this. Personally, I know that I draw nearer to God when I am in great pain and or suffering, and it is often during these times that I see God's bigger picture. When I see God's people working together to help these children, I am filled with hope.
Ross also shared this verse.
John 9:1-5 (NIV)
As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
***********************
P.S.
Wow---- what a blessing! $250 more dollars have been donated! I know I sound like a broken record, but really........ thank you. Your prayers, your donations, your encouraging words help to carry me each day when I get caught up in the things of this world. It is a huge reminder to me to focus on what is important because afterall, all of you are too. Everyday that passes, Alexsey is is one day closer to coming home!
By the way, Julia and Dennis have their very own passports so they are set to go! Woo-hooo!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
The Land that I Love!
Ukraine is a place that I will forever yearn to visit....... soak in..... Not only did I fall in love with every single thing about it when we were there last summer adopting our son Dennis, but praying for this country, praying for their orphans, praying for the little boy that we are working towards adopting, has made Ukraine even more special.
I have the deepest respect for the country where two and God-willing three of my children were born.
Last trip I tried to take note of everything--- even the smallest of things.
We didn't watch DVD's--- we didn't even bring any. Instead we watched from our apartment window, the children playing down below us.
We never used a driver unless our facilitator asked us to. Instead we walked everywhere and risked getting lost. It was adventurous......because afterall, weren't we on an adventure of a lifetime?
Last trip, I actually packed some oatmeal packets, granola bars, and peanut butter. This trip, I want to eat everything Ukrainian. Last trip, I even brought a role of toilet paper from home. I am a bit embarrassed to even admit that. Outside of bringing a few things for Dennis and Julia, I want to say that I was a 100% Ukrainian in everything I did!
I noticed the unique purple flower in the field next to the path we walked everyday to the orphanage. I noticed the sweet smell when a light rain would sprinkle down on us.
No paper plates, no dishwashers, no fenced in backyards. No lawns to cut, crosswalk buttons to push, or coffee pots to rinse out.
This trip will be even more memorable--- I promise. This trip, I will enjoy it through the eyes of two of my children--- a special treat that I cannot wait for.
I love Ukraine, and will make sure to not waste a single moment there. I am looking forward to re-introducing all who helped us to adopt Dennis so that they could see what an amazing boy he is! Hopefully seeing how far Dennis has come will help them to feel a little more comfortable with Americans adopting their children. I feel that this is the least that we could do. I want them to know without a doubt that we have cared for and loved our Ukrainian born son with all of our hearts---- and will do the same for Alexsey.
This may sound a little strange to some, but for me, it is a humbling experience that I know will make me even more appreciative of what I have here at home. It will also hopefully embed in my heart an even deeper desire to return to Ukraine and help the orphans that I already dread leaving behind. I have no doubt that through this God will open my eyes to see things I may have otherwise been too absorbed in my own comfort to notice.
With Godspeed, I cannot wait to return to the land that I love!
I have the deepest respect for the country where two and God-willing three of my children were born.
Last trip I tried to take note of everything--- even the smallest of things.
We didn't watch DVD's--- we didn't even bring any. Instead we watched from our apartment window, the children playing down below us.
We never used a driver unless our facilitator asked us to. Instead we walked everywhere and risked getting lost. It was adventurous......because afterall, weren't we on an adventure of a lifetime?
Last trip, I actually packed some oatmeal packets, granola bars, and peanut butter. This trip, I want to eat everything Ukrainian. Last trip, I even brought a role of toilet paper from home. I am a bit embarrassed to even admit that. Outside of bringing a few things for Dennis and Julia, I want to say that I was a 100% Ukrainian in everything I did!
I noticed the unique purple flower in the field next to the path we walked everyday to the orphanage. I noticed the sweet smell when a light rain would sprinkle down on us.
No paper plates, no dishwashers, no fenced in backyards. No lawns to cut, crosswalk buttons to push, or coffee pots to rinse out.
This trip will be even more memorable--- I promise. This trip, I will enjoy it through the eyes of two of my children--- a special treat that I cannot wait for.
I love Ukraine, and will make sure to not waste a single moment there. I am looking forward to re-introducing all who helped us to adopt Dennis so that they could see what an amazing boy he is! Hopefully seeing how far Dennis has come will help them to feel a little more comfortable with Americans adopting their children. I feel that this is the least that we could do. I want them to know without a doubt that we have cared for and loved our Ukrainian born son with all of our hearts---- and will do the same for Alexsey.
This may sound a little strange to some, but for me, it is a humbling experience that I know will make me even more appreciative of what I have here at home. It will also hopefully embed in my heart an even deeper desire to return to Ukraine and help the orphans that I already dread leaving behind. I have no doubt that through this God will open my eyes to see things I may have otherwise been too absorbed in my own comfort to notice.
With Godspeed, I cannot wait to return to the land that I love!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
I Think He Will Be Walking!!!!
My heart just warms up when I look at this picture! Someone asked if I thought Alexsey would be able to walk. My heart always felt that once he was home he would indeed learn to walk. Looks like it might be earlier than that! And look at his smile! When I look at Alexsey I don't see a disability......... I see a child that is so contagiously inspirational that I can't wait to be around him!
We are hurrying as fast as we can little boy! Don't grow up too fast!
Friday, March 13, 2009
God Wants Me to Shout it From the Rooftop!
I am just in awe how God is showing Himself over and over and over.
First, I got a surprise update yesterday to let us know that Alexsey is doing well!
Second, I found out last night that $6000.00 was donated to our family for Alexsey's adoption! Praise the Lord!
Third, our invitation to be fingerprinted for our I-600 came today! They barely got our homestudy on Monday. What took five weeks last time we adopted took less than a week this adoption!
God is moving mountains and the people He is using to work through are such an encouragement that I can't help but want to shout it from the rooftops! Thank You for confirming to us over and over that we were always supposed to go get Alexsey!
If you are reading for the first time, I encourage you to go back and read from the beginning because there has been some pretty amazing things that have happened on this journey so far. Not only have many people rallied around my daughter to help her raise money for her plane ticket to travel with us, but others have done fundraisers on their blog on our behalf, and fellow readers have rallied around other adoptive parents in time of need. So many prayers have been said that I feel they are paving our path to Ukraine. We have been blessed with pictures of Alexsey that we never expected, and we have met some pretty amazing people that have helped us with adoption paperwork.
I feel very blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people. Thank you. You are all partnering to help bring Alexsey home! I hope I am not the only one to shout this from my rooftop!
First, I got a surprise update yesterday to let us know that Alexsey is doing well!
Second, I found out last night that $6000.00 was donated to our family for Alexsey's adoption! Praise the Lord!
Third, our invitation to be fingerprinted for our I-600 came today! They barely got our homestudy on Monday. What took five weeks last time we adopted took less than a week this adoption!
God is moving mountains and the people He is using to work through are such an encouragement that I can't help but want to shout it from the rooftops! Thank You for confirming to us over and over that we were always supposed to go get Alexsey!
If you are reading for the first time, I encourage you to go back and read from the beginning because there has been some pretty amazing things that have happened on this journey so far. Not only have many people rallied around my daughter to help her raise money for her plane ticket to travel with us, but others have done fundraisers on their blog on our behalf, and fellow readers have rallied around other adoptive parents in time of need. So many prayers have been said that I feel they are paving our path to Ukraine. We have been blessed with pictures of Alexsey that we never expected, and we have met some pretty amazing people that have helped us with adoption paperwork.
I feel very blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people. Thank you. You are all partnering to help bring Alexsey home! I hope I am not the only one to shout this from my rooftop!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Alexsey has a place to sleep
Last week I ordered a bunkbed for the three youngest boys. It was finally delivered yesterday!
The kids were so excited! Of course---- they had lots of fun playing with the box!
Adam put most of it together for me.
Here is the finished bed! Doesn't it look great?
The plan is that Jonny is going to sleep on the top, with Dennis and Alexsey sleeping on the bottom. The kids have already made plans to play musical beds over the next few months and they are excited for when Alexsey will be able to play too!
I bought four plastic bins that fit nicely under the bed where they can store toys, shoes, and have easy access to a few changes of clothes.
I feel really blessed today. My kids are really easy to please. All of the kids except Adam and Caleb who are just too cool to make such a big deal, were so excited about the bunk bed. It is literally the coolest bed in the house right now and they told me, "Mom you rock! Thanks for buying this awesome bed. Can we all have one just like it in our room?" Funny how, since it is a metal frame, and I bargain shopped, it also happens to be the least expensive bed too.
Pray with me.
Dear Heavenly Father,
May you prepare not only Alexsey's heart, but all of my children's heart for this adoption. May we rejoice in his future homecoming! Lord, may you hear our prayers that his spina bifida has hardly affected him at all. Lord, regardless of the physical challenges that he may have, we still want him and already love him, and so we ask Lord on his behalf that you work miracles in his precious little body!
The kids were so excited! Of course---- they had lots of fun playing with the box!
Adam put most of it together for me.
Here is the finished bed! Doesn't it look great?
The plan is that Jonny is going to sleep on the top, with Dennis and Alexsey sleeping on the bottom. The kids have already made plans to play musical beds over the next few months and they are excited for when Alexsey will be able to play too!
I bought four plastic bins that fit nicely under the bed where they can store toys, shoes, and have easy access to a few changes of clothes.
I feel really blessed today. My kids are really easy to please. All of the kids except Adam and Caleb who are just too cool to make such a big deal, were so excited about the bunk bed. It is literally the coolest bed in the house right now and they told me, "Mom you rock! Thanks for buying this awesome bed. Can we all have one just like it in our room?" Funny how, since it is a metal frame, and I bargain shopped, it also happens to be the least expensive bed too.
Pray with me.
Dear Heavenly Father,
May you prepare not only Alexsey's heart, but all of my children's heart for this adoption. May we rejoice in his future homecoming! Lord, may you hear our prayers that his spina bifida has hardly affected him at all. Lord, regardless of the physical challenges that he may have, we still want him and already love him, and so we ask Lord on his behalf that you work miracles in his precious little body!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Wow, Wow, and Wow!
Already this adoption has been quite the journey. Sorry I haven't shared much of it with you yet.
I told you that God has already worked some miracles in this process, some bigger than others--- so I will just work my way down chronologically.
1. Just after we committed to adopting Alexsey, another little boy in the same orphanage that we had contemplated adopting also but had not felt peace about, had a family commit to him! Talk about God answering prayers. Talk about God showing us firsthand that He is at work within us.
2. Got news that we could combine our post-placement visit for Dennis that happened last weekend with our homestudy visit-- so that part is already done!
3. Realized that the kids' physicals for our last adoption were still good because they were less than two years old. This was the case for nine of the kids--- which saved us $180 in copays, not to mention numerous trips to the doctor!
4. Ukraine has a new form that they think us adoptive parents can snap our fingers and make our mortgage company, bank, or some other official company fill out and sign! This is almost impossible--- what company wants to sign some unknown document that is going to end up in Ukraine? Well yesterday, I made a special trip to our title company and met with the manager. She agreed to fill out the form--- no problem!
5. Before John and I committed to Alexsey we each confided in a few friends to see what they thought. The responses back were all supportive with one of the friends offering to watch all of the kids when we travel. How amazing is that?
6. I set up a family sponsorship page through Reece's Rainbow yesterday to help offset the costs of another adoption so soon, and I checked on it late this afternoon to find that it already has nearly $700 donated to help bring Alexsey home! I was so surprised in the most wonderful way that so many people would tangibly show their utmost support of our decision! Thank you so much!
7. Every single comment and email totaling nearly 200 have been nothing but encouraging, supportive, and uplifting. Many that I will hold dear to my heart always........here are just a few.
Mary said...
What wonderful news! I'm so happy that Alexsey will have a loving home and family at last and that he will avoid institutionalization. This is definitely an answer to many, many prayers.
Mellimaus said...
OH MY GOODNESS THAT IS SO COOL!I'm grinning.Can't wait to check out the new blog! We're praying for you...you are such a wonderful family, Alexsey will have an awesome home.
Megan said...
From the time you mentioned Alexsey, I knew that he was your son. I always knew you'd go back for him and I couldn't be happier for him, and your family. He looks like a wonderful child who will bring another wonderful light to your bright family. Congratulations and I can't wait to see when he comes home.
The Monroe 6 said...
My heart lept when I read your post!!!! Just awesome!I can not wait until you have him in your arms forever!!God works in mysterious ways. He placed Alexsey in your heart for a reason. So wonderful!Congratulations!!!!
mmc said...
I had a hunch it might happen. Man I have prayed so much for this little guy and promised to donate. I've just been waiting for his name to get posted with the paypal link. Going to donate now. Oh man. I am so excited for your family! And aleksy. Ahhhh. You keep making me cry. I've cried tears of happiness at least four times this week. God is good. I couldn't get aleksy out of my head. I wish I was old enough to adopt. Oh christine. You have made my week.
Charissa said...
Last time I cried for him because I was sad for him. Now tears of joy are running down my face. Thank you for giving that boy the gift of a family.
Joni said...
Congratulations! This is so exciting! Hmmm ... makes me start to think - we have 7 bio children, and I've worked with kids with special needs before having any of my own - and have a special drawing to all kids. I've always assumed we would not be 'considered' for adoption, but .... hmmmm ... maybe we would be able to also take in one of these special children some day! I'll be so excited to follow along your newest 'adventure' here in blog-ville!
Jarka said...
aaaaa!!! this is awesome!!! now it´s morning and I´m going to school and I didn´t want to even wake up because it was so cosy in my bed...then I switched on my laptop and I saw your post!!! congratulation!!!! I keep you all in my prayers...oh, this news made my day better! :D
The Flying Eagle said...
John and Christine, I am so happy that I can not stop crying. I am so thrilled for Alesky but also for you and your family. I have prayed so hard for him ever since you shared his story with me. And so many nights I have ached that we were not able to take him when they presented him to us at the SDA. You have my firm commitment to support you in any possible way you need. I am so grateful to you and your ability to extend beyond what the average person believes capable. Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you. Monica
Shari said...
That is wonderful news! I will be praying that the Lord works this quickly and Alexsey can get home soon. I just know he will thrive with your family! I have had a heart change toward international adoption in the last month or so. The Lord has used your blog and another blog to really open my heart to these children who need homes. I will continue to pray for you and the others trying to get their babies home!
Anonymous said...
Mrs Reed,My name is Amanda, I'm 17yrs old. I've been read your blog for several months now, and I just wanted you to know the hope you give me. I cried tears of joy for little Alexsey when I read this. How I wish I could hold his hands and tell him you're coming!I can't wait to turn 18 and donate some of my own time and money to children overseas. I'm so fortunate in what I have, I want to use this position to help others who aren't so well off.I just want you to know, I'll be thinking of you every step of the way.All my love to you and your family,Amanda
Rakel Astros said...
That is amazing! I always had the feeling that you guys would eventually take him in ever since you first talked about him on your blog. Again, this is amazing! My heart is like, pumping like crazy, I'm so excited for you guys and for Alexsey. I will pray for you and for Alexsey as he waits for his parents!God Bless you all!
Debbie said...
Слава Богу (slava Bogu--praise God)! I am doing the happy dance and can't wait until Aleksey is in your arms. He will positively THRIVE with your family. God has answered my prayers in such an amazing way--Aleksey will be the son of my friends, the Reeds!
Please pray with me.
Dear Lord,
Please hear my prayers for little Alexsey tonight. Keep him safe and warm. I pray that your plans include him not walking but running into my open arms someday. I think Alexsey would love that.
I told you that God has already worked some miracles in this process, some bigger than others--- so I will just work my way down chronologically.
1. Just after we committed to adopting Alexsey, another little boy in the same orphanage that we had contemplated adopting also but had not felt peace about, had a family commit to him! Talk about God answering prayers. Talk about God showing us firsthand that He is at work within us.
2. Got news that we could combine our post-placement visit for Dennis that happened last weekend with our homestudy visit-- so that part is already done!
3. Realized that the kids' physicals for our last adoption were still good because they were less than two years old. This was the case for nine of the kids--- which saved us $180 in copays, not to mention numerous trips to the doctor!
4. Ukraine has a new form that they think us adoptive parents can snap our fingers and make our mortgage company, bank, or some other official company fill out and sign! This is almost impossible--- what company wants to sign some unknown document that is going to end up in Ukraine? Well yesterday, I made a special trip to our title company and met with the manager. She agreed to fill out the form--- no problem!
5. Before John and I committed to Alexsey we each confided in a few friends to see what they thought. The responses back were all supportive with one of the friends offering to watch all of the kids when we travel. How amazing is that?
6. I set up a family sponsorship page through Reece's Rainbow yesterday to help offset the costs of another adoption so soon, and I checked on it late this afternoon to find that it already has nearly $700 donated to help bring Alexsey home! I was so surprised in the most wonderful way that so many people would tangibly show their utmost support of our decision! Thank you so much!
7. Every single comment and email totaling nearly 200 have been nothing but encouraging, supportive, and uplifting. Many that I will hold dear to my heart always........here are just a few.
Mary said...
What wonderful news! I'm so happy that Alexsey will have a loving home and family at last and that he will avoid institutionalization. This is definitely an answer to many, many prayers.
Mellimaus said...
OH MY GOODNESS THAT IS SO COOL!I'm grinning.Can't wait to check out the new blog! We're praying for you...you are such a wonderful family, Alexsey will have an awesome home.
Megan said...
From the time you mentioned Alexsey, I knew that he was your son. I always knew you'd go back for him and I couldn't be happier for him, and your family. He looks like a wonderful child who will bring another wonderful light to your bright family. Congratulations and I can't wait to see when he comes home.
The Monroe 6 said...
My heart lept when I read your post!!!! Just awesome!I can not wait until you have him in your arms forever!!God works in mysterious ways. He placed Alexsey in your heart for a reason. So wonderful!Congratulations!!!!
mmc said...
I had a hunch it might happen. Man I have prayed so much for this little guy and promised to donate. I've just been waiting for his name to get posted with the paypal link. Going to donate now. Oh man. I am so excited for your family! And aleksy. Ahhhh. You keep making me cry. I've cried tears of happiness at least four times this week. God is good. I couldn't get aleksy out of my head. I wish I was old enough to adopt. Oh christine. You have made my week.
Charissa said...
Last time I cried for him because I was sad for him. Now tears of joy are running down my face. Thank you for giving that boy the gift of a family.
Joni said...
Congratulations! This is so exciting! Hmmm ... makes me start to think - we have 7 bio children, and I've worked with kids with special needs before having any of my own - and have a special drawing to all kids. I've always assumed we would not be 'considered' for adoption, but .... hmmmm ... maybe we would be able to also take in one of these special children some day! I'll be so excited to follow along your newest 'adventure' here in blog-ville!
Jarka said...
aaaaa!!! this is awesome!!! now it´s morning and I´m going to school and I didn´t want to even wake up because it was so cosy in my bed...then I switched on my laptop and I saw your post!!! congratulation!!!! I keep you all in my prayers...oh, this news made my day better! :D
The Flying Eagle said...
John and Christine, I am so happy that I can not stop crying. I am so thrilled for Alesky but also for you and your family. I have prayed so hard for him ever since you shared his story with me. And so many nights I have ached that we were not able to take him when they presented him to us at the SDA. You have my firm commitment to support you in any possible way you need. I am so grateful to you and your ability to extend beyond what the average person believes capable. Thank you Thank you Thank you Thank you. Monica
Shari said...
That is wonderful news! I will be praying that the Lord works this quickly and Alexsey can get home soon. I just know he will thrive with your family! I have had a heart change toward international adoption in the last month or so. The Lord has used your blog and another blog to really open my heart to these children who need homes. I will continue to pray for you and the others trying to get their babies home!
Anonymous said...
Mrs Reed,My name is Amanda, I'm 17yrs old. I've been read your blog for several months now, and I just wanted you to know the hope you give me. I cried tears of joy for little Alexsey when I read this. How I wish I could hold his hands and tell him you're coming!I can't wait to turn 18 and donate some of my own time and money to children overseas. I'm so fortunate in what I have, I want to use this position to help others who aren't so well off.I just want you to know, I'll be thinking of you every step of the way.All my love to you and your family,Amanda
Rakel Astros said...
That is amazing! I always had the feeling that you guys would eventually take him in ever since you first talked about him on your blog. Again, this is amazing! My heart is like, pumping like crazy, I'm so excited for you guys and for Alexsey. I will pray for you and for Alexsey as he waits for his parents!God Bless you all!
Debbie said...
Слава Богу (slava Bogu--praise God)! I am doing the happy dance and can't wait until Aleksey is in your arms. He will positively THRIVE with your family. God has answered my prayers in such an amazing way--Aleksey will be the son of my friends, the Reeds!
Please pray with me.
Dear Lord,
Please hear my prayers for little Alexsey tonight. Keep him safe and warm. I pray that your plans include him not walking but running into my open arms someday. I think Alexsey would love that.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
