Eight Is Enough...

What Has Hope Been Up To This Spring?

2009-05-12T14:20:00.004-04:00

Hope is a busy thing, that likes to be involved with any activity that she can. This Spring proved particularly hectic and fast paced for her. She spent absolutely countless hours participating in Odyssey of the Mind. I had a video of them performing their skit, but it (along with ever other picture/video on our computer got erased recently). Trust me, that they were awesome, and clever and very funny. She also spent untold hours rehearsing for our church's Easter Praise musical. She was picked by our Worship Pastor (who had directed her in a musical last summer) to play a main character. She played the granddaughter, who along with the grandfather, narrated the play. It was a huge undertaking for an 11 year old. She was amazing, and handled herself with maturity and grace. I know, I know, I'm her mom. But seriously, it was way cool to watch her do her thing. This is a picture that the Worship Pastor had framed for her after her last performance. I love it.Hope also plays lacrosse. Which she managed to fit in, somehow. She is a fast, athletic girl, and it is fun to go watch her play.

She is competitive, and takes it very seriously......
OBVIOUSLY.

It's been a joy to parent such a smart, talented, goofy girl. I can't wait to see what she'll get into next. But I guarantee she'll be great!

Emma's State Meet

2009-05-08T10:14:00.005-04:00

(Emma waiting to vault)

Emma's gymnastics season is over! Unfortunately she didn't have the best meet ever, but did walk away as the Virginia state champ on vault... 2 years running! Way to go Lu Lu!! Here is the video of her level 7 vault at state this year. The coaches tell us that the second vault is the one that won it, but who can tell the difference? They both look perfect to me... but I am her Mom.

Now she is working hard training for level 8. There is no such thing as an off season for a gymnast!!

Spring Break = Busch Gardens!!!

2009-04-13T15:51:00.005-04:00

We live 20 minutes from Busch, and use it as our primary source of entertainment all Spring and Summer long (as well as Water Country). The kids all had a blast. Stella, Beatrice and Elias all had their first coaster ride. Stella freaks out, but will try again Beatrice thinks they are kinda scary, but doesn't want to miss out. My little Elias? Well, he just smiles and giggles the entire ride. Precious! Me? I just watch them with tears glistening in my eyes, just so amazed at how miraculous it is that they are here, in America, with bellies full of soda and cotton candy, going upside down on Loch Ness Monster, grinning from ear to ear, completely oblivious to how lucky they actually are... just the way I like 'em!!!

Bicycle Mayhem

2009-03-24T10:31:00.006-04:00

One of the kids very favorite activities right now is riding their bikes. Stella, Beatrice and Elias came to us not having a clue about how to ride a bike, but picked it up extremely quickly. Emma (and Nathan and Hope) have jumped right in and shared some of their daredevil antics with them. Fabulous. It is actually very fun to see them all having fun together, even if it ends in a bicycle boo boo....

Poor baby! (He WAS wearing a helmet at the time, maybe we should add a face mask!)

I'm Back!

2009-03-18T10:52:00.002-04:00

I've been on a blogging hiatus lately. Don't blame me, blame Facebook. If you really want the scoop on our family, I suggest you join me over there, don't worry... I'll accept your friend request.

I'm going to post some videos taken of our kids recently, to jump start my leap back into Bloggy Land. Those of you on Facebook have seen them before. Sorry!

These are some videos of one of Emma's gymnastics meets:

This one is Nathan and the 8th grade guys doing a skit at church. They had to do a 1 minute skit called Compelled by _______. They chose Compelled by Music. What makes this truly funny, is that up until this point, Nathan has been rather quiet and shy. This weekend at church really brought him out of his shell, now we are going to spend the next few years trying to shove him back in... (He's the one 2nd from the left, wearing a beanie).

So, yes, we are alive! Yes, we are fine! Yes, all of the kids are doing great! I was just busy having an affair with Facebook.

Truer Words Were never Spoken.... (or written)

2008-11-21T07:53:00.004-05:00

We are famous!

2008-11-14T09:58:00.006-05:00

OK, last week a picture of the kids dressed up for Halloween was in the local paper.

Today an article ran about our adoption story. It seems rather odd that anyone would find us newsworthy. We feel pretty normal. The kids are enjoying it, though. Anything I can do to stir peoples hearts towards adoption is worth it, I guess. So here it is... our 15 minutes of fame....

My Crush...

2008-11-10T09:18:00.006-05:00

There are some men on TV that just get to me. They may not be the hottest guys, the best looking. Sometimes it's just something about them. Sometimes it's the look in their eyes when they look at their woman, the way McDreamy looks at Meredith.

Sometimes they are just hot. Derek (Shemar Moore) from Criminal Minds, for instance, man oh man. He is something to behold.

While McDreamy and Shemar Moore are very attractive in their own way, they can't hold a candle to the one that makes me smile every time. He makes me shake my groove thang, improves my day, and has given me the most entertaining 20 seconds ever on TV. He is the only one that is permanently saved on my DVR. Behold my all time favorite (on screen) leading man:

My apologies McDreamy...

What Isn't Working......

2008-11-09T18:31:00.004-05:00

Oh boy... here we go. I'm airing all of my dirty laundry (literally), because in my quest to share some tips with my fellow adopters, I'm afraid I've created an online alter ego that does not represent reality. I've had people comment that "they could never do what we're doing". Nothing could be further from the truth, people. Nothing. God has not gifted me with more patience, better housekeeping skills, or any other gift than any of you. God chooses average people to do His work every day. Less than average people many times. Moses had a speech impediment, Paul had a "thorn in his flesh". Me? I'm a procrastinator big time. I'll doodle around on Facebook instead of sweep the floor, I'll not clean out the closet because, well, because I want a Coke right now.

You know our handy dandy Mudroom/Computer room/homework room? The one we created because our front closet couldn't handle all of the jackets and backpacks. The one that would allow us to use the front hall closet for guest's coats and the such. So much for that theory, this is our front hall closet (keep in mind, all pictures are actual unretouched photos, taken TODAY)....
We moved Nathan downstairs into what used to be the computer room, and made it his room. The problem is, we haven't put doors on the poor boy's room yet. It is the first thing you see when you walk in the front door. And because there are no doors, the little ones use it as their play room, jump on the bed, drag out his video games, and strew clean and dirty clothes everywhere. Then I feel bad for him, and let him slide instead of clean it up. This is his room:

This my friends, is what is currently living under my chair in our living room:

Now, you may be thinking "well, okay, she may not be the best house cleaner ever, but at least her kids are always well fed and happy". Not so much. Friday night we had popcorn FOR DINNER. Seriously. And this is how we usually see Jorah, in all her sweet 2 year old tantrumness:
So, as you can plainly see, our life is not all sunshine and roses, smiles and laughter. But we are living life together. We are trusting God, and doing the job that He has given us to do. I may not have sparkling floors or 'have it all together', but this is our reality... and I wouldn't have it any other way.

(Now, please know that I will probably never look any of you directly in the eye again. This is humbling as all get out.....)

What works?

2008-11-05T08:59:00.004-05:00

Having 9 kids share a bathroom has been working so far. This is what 9 toothbrushes look like.
9 sponges in the shower:
We keep their towels hanging in their rooms. That alleviates the "she used my towel" argument.
Everyone has two personalized towels (thank you to my friends Lauren and Penney for those) that way we know whose towel is laying in a wet heap on the carpet. One hangs in their room to use, the other is in the closet. When we wash towels we hang the clean towel up in their room, so they always use the one hanging up. This greatly decreases the number of towels washed weekly.
This used to be our formal dining room. Now it is the mudroom/computer room/ homework room. We painted stripes, put up wooden boards, hung hooks and initials, and put some shoe totes down. Our hallway closet just wasn't cutting it. To the left you will see Mom's mailbox. That is where the kids put all papers that Mom needs to see or sign. (Yes it's overflowing right now). But it works.
This post is in answer to those of you who have asked me "so what seems to be working well for you?".

These last few FAQ posts, I fear, have given you a false impression of me and our home. I've received very nice compliments. Thank you for those. Being complimented is always nice. Alas, my conscience will not allow me to keep you in the dark to the 'real side'. Therefore my next post will be titled "What isn't working". I will post pictures.

Embarrassing.

Noah and HER Animals, a Sock Hopper and SCREAM!!!

2008-11-03T09:46:00.003-05:00

On October 31st, Noah gathered his animals to himself to search out sustenance enough to last through the entire flood. Otherwise read as - On Halloween Emma came home from a party and was tackled by a pack of wild animals, Stella, Beatrice, Elias, Jamison, Ishmael and Jorah. We went Trick or Treating and got enough candy to last through ANY trial, pestilence, plague or flood.
Cast of characters: Emma-Noah, Stella- Bee, Beatrice-Ladybug, Elias-Dog, Jamison-Elephant, Ishmael- Giraffe, Jorah- Cow, our friend Aiden-lion.
Nathan and his friend Caleb helped out the little treaters until they were worn out, then were released to do some tricking of their own.
Hope and her friend Paige sock hopped their way through Paige's neighborhood.
Hope sent me this message from Paige's: Sorry, can't come home.... in a sugar induced coma...
As are we all, as are we all........

Mysteries Revealed, Part 4

2008-10-29T11:14:00.004-04:00

My new friend, Angela, asked how I divide up chores and other household duties now. Angela has 2 sweet little ones at home now, but I see a houseful of munchkins from all over the world in her future... near future.

Answer: Well, our basic theory on chores is that we are a family, we share a home, therefore we all need to work together to make this home run smoothly, while remaining at least slightly on this side of chaos. We want our kids to learn responsibility, and helpfulness.... but I don't want to be a dictator, and have little soldiers for kids. I'm finding that it is pretty easy to fall into mean military Mom mode. I'm working very hard to find the balance between having routines and expectations, while still having a happy, relaxing, safe harbor home. I think that the key to this is for the kids to all know what is expected of them, and when it is expected of them. In come our chore charts. On our refrigerator are 6 chore charts, 1 for each child in school. They are laminated. When they complete a task they mark it off with an Expo marker (conveniently located in a magnetic pen holder on the side of the fridge). I wipe off the charts each night. Right now, we are all getting used to the charts, so no consequences for missing jobs, they just get a reminder for now.

Here is our fridge:

Here is Nathan's chart up close (click on it to make it bigger):
Everybody pitches in after each meal to get the kitchen and table cleaned off. Even the littlest ones help by wiping off the chairs. Everybody pitches in cleaning on the weekends as well. I just take a look at what needs to be done and divvy up the chores. In the past, I've tried to chart specific chores for each child. That just doesn't work for me very well, because one person's job is always the toilet. That's not fair. Then we tried alternating weekends. That didn't work, either. Either we forgot what weekend it was, or someone wasn't home to do there's, or we were too busy one weekend. 'Clean Sweep' is making a loop through the house, picking up anything that belongs to you, or you got out. It's not all that detailed or all inclusive, but for us, Keep It Simple Stupid works out really well.

So, I think that's it in a nutshell. It's been working pretty well. So far, so good! Thanks, Angela, for the question!

Magical Munchkin Moments

2008-10-28T10:18:00.001-04:00

Here's what we stay at home folks have been up to while everyone else is slaving away at work or school:

Running lots of errands (some may call it shopping, but that's just a technicality).
Going on Thursday fun outings with some good friends; parks, Williamsburg, Malls... it's all fun!
Having Munchkin Movie Mornings. They love them some Veggie Tales!

And their absolute favorite.... dress up time! Ishmael thinks he is hilarious with a wig on, and I have to agree. He'll wear those itchy things for hours at a time. (Steve thinks I should draw the line at the pink leotard, though).

Aah, rough is the life of a Mother of Preschoolers. Really....

(Especially the 2 hour nap time they will have this afternoon)

Mysteries Revealed, Part 3

2008-10-27T08:25:00.002-04:00

Asked by a sweet friend, Katie, whom I only knew a short time before she had to move away. : (
What are my best money saving tips? What questions did we ask ourselves before adopting? What are my best recipes?

Answer part 1: Money saving tips? Being that I am a great lover of all things shopping, and Steve says we should put on our bib overalls and live off of the land, I'm pretty sure I should refer all money related questions to somebody far better at it than me.... Dave Ramsey. His system takes some discipline, but really, truly works.

Answer part 2: Questions we asked ourselves before we adopted: 1) Could we afford it? 2) Could we TRULY love a child not bone of our bone? 3) Could we TRULY loves a child of a different race? 4) Could we TRULY love a child that may have some "needs"? As it turns out, all of those questions were completely irrelevant. No matter how God places a child in your arms, his manner of growing your heart to love them remains the same. I will say that becoming a transracial family makes you a little conspicuous. We had never really been noticed before. Adopted a child from another culture requires you to be willing to become part of that culture. Adoption IS expensive, but in our case The Lord took care of the money issues in truly remarkable ways. Once you see that little face, all of your questions are irrelevant (or at least were for us). Once you see the need.... well, then you know the truth.... there is ALWAYS ROOM FOR ONE MORE!!!! I would say the only question that truly needs to be asked and answered is this... what would God have you do? Our answer came in this verse:

James 1:27
27Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

(Katie, I do not really LOVE to cook, beyond LOVING to eat, and LOVING to feed my family. I don't have any remarkable recipes, but when I come across some, I'll be sure to post them, okay?)

Pumpkin Patch!! (and our first picture of our whole family)

2008-10-25T21:21:00.006-04:00

We just had a completely fantabulous day at the pumpkin patch! We loaded up the kids, along with 2 of the kids' friends, and 2 of our friends, and headed to the farm. The major highlight of this farm is the mountain they have built out of dirt and mulch. It's big. Majorly big. Like 2nd story window big. They've installed slides down the sides, and the whole thing is fairly safe and just innocent fun, until. Until your husband decides to sit halfway down the side of the mountain and encourage all of his children to take a running start and leap OVER him. DOWN the hill. By the grace of God, no children were injured during this picture shoot. A good mom would have intervened. Me? I whipped out the camera.

Flying McStud Muffin

This is "my person", Beth. You know the one. The one you can count on, call about anything. The one that has your back, loves ALL of your kids and keeps coming back for more. (Oh, and her husband, Robbie is ok too).
Hope and "her person", Paige.

All of the kids with their pumpkin picks.

This pic is just cute of Elias and Ishmael. I love it. And them. All is well in our world right now. Gotta love that. Gotta praise The Lord for that. Amazing what a big pile of mulch and a field of gourds will do for ya.....

Mysteries Revealed, Part 2

2008-10-25T10:24:00.002-04:00

Question #2, asked by my very best blogging friend, Fabu (who just brought home 3 gorgeous kiddos from Ghana) asked how I tackle the laundry, and if we think we may adopt one more.

Answer part 1: Laundry, schmaundry. This is what we are doing. and it seems to be working well so far. Each room has one laundry basket with the names of the room's residents written in Sharpie marker on the side. Also, the kids bathroom has a basket (because no matter how hard I try, I can't seem to get kids to take their dirties back to their own rooms). Most baskets are for 2 people (Steve and I, Jamison and Jorah, Ishmael and Elias) but the older girls' basket is for 4 (Hope, Emma, Stella and Beatrice) and Nathan has a basket to himself (lucky guy gets a room to himself). Each day I find a basket that is completely overflowing and take it down to the laundry room. My goal is to get that load of laundry washed, dried, folded and back into that rooms basket before the kids get off of the bus (lofty goal). Each time I change a load, I put in another load. We can stay on top of the laundry if we do one complete rotation of laundry a day. The full basket of folded clothes gets put up into their prospective rooms, and the kids are responsible for putting them away after their homework is done. Why this system? Well, I've found that folding one rooms worth is tons easier that folding a little of everybody's. We only have a couple different kinds of socks to match, instead of 11. The only time this is different is the bathroom hamper loads. I'm willing to deal with this in order to keep that bathroom a little more orderly. That is how we do the laundry. I'm sure there are tons easier, more efficient ways to do it, but until Santa brings me my Whirlpool Duet, we will stick with the system.

Answer part 2: As to whether we are going to adopt one more....... hmmm depends on who you ask. The Hubster is sitting next to me and says "No", with a big grin on his face. Hope wants to adopt her best friend Paige, but her Mom would like to keep custody of her. Emma and Hope think that we need a newborn boy next. All I know is that we were "done" with 3, we were "done" with 5, so now I don't attempt to guess what the Lord has in store for us. I could see us being "done" with 9, but there is "Always Room For One More" in our home and our hearts so who knows..... it is exciting not to know. Will I ever completely feel "done"? I dunno.

Mysteries Revealed, Part 1

2008-10-24T22:50:00.003-04:00

Question #1, asked by my Adoption Warrior Princess/Adoption Coordinator/Friend, Anita- How have my grocery buying habits changed, and did I change the foods I cook, amounts etc.?

Answer-Thankfully, thanks to my awesome friends from church (thanks, Jamie), we had wonderful home cooked meals delivered every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday for the first month we were home. I mean good meals, too. I've been flying solo lately, and am managing pretty well, amazingly enough. Now, cooking and grocery shopping are not my 'thing'. I abhor grocery shopping. First you have to put the item in your cart, then onto the conveyor belt, then into your cart again, then into your car, then into your house, then into your pantry. After all of that, you are supposed to plan the meal, cook it, and clean up afterwards.... 3 times a day. Therefore, it was our habit to scrounge around in the refrigerator for meals for as many days as possible before going to the store again, which usually meant more meals eaten out than our budget could afford. Now with 9 kids, we not only 'shouldn't' eat out, we 'can't'. Therefore, I am playing The Grocery Game, found at www.thegrocerygame.com. It is a system that matches up coupons with the sales at local grocery stores. For instance, last Tuesday I bought $230 worth of groceries for $126, for a savings of 45%. The only catch is that you have to buy what is on your list, not what you NEED. Eventually you will catch up, and virtually be able to shop out of your pantry, because the sales cycle will have come full circle. After 12 weeks, you should be set on everything from peanut butter to toilet paper. I'm on week 4, and I'm enjoying the game aspect of it now, and enjoying the savings. So I shop at Kroger with coupons on Tuesday night (while Steve puts the kids to bed), and I go to Costco Wednesday night, while all of the kids are at church activities. At Costco I buy lunch packing supplies (lunch meat, chips, fruit, Capri Suns), fruit, detergent, rice, gatorade. My total grocery bill has gone up, but not exponentially, as you would expect adding 4 HUGE EATERS (these kids can pack.it.in) to our family. Also, we have eaten out WAY less. Usually pizza with coupons one night a week. Not eating out is the biggest savings of all for us.

As far as cooking goes, I've just been more diligent about planning for dinner in the morning. Lately the crockpot and rice cooker have been my friend. I put in some cheap meat, marinade of some sort, veggies of some sort, and let it cook away, making rice sometime in the afternoon. It's awesome!! Put out some fruit or salad and voila! I do make more food, but we are more careful with portions. We start with very small portions, then they can have 2nds, 3rds or whatever, but they have to eat what's on their plates first. This has kept us from wasting tons of food!

There you go, Anita. First question answered!

Anymore questions, anyone? Ask away! (And fill out my survey, so I know I'm not writing posts for 14 people)!!!

Questions Anyone?

2008-10-23T11:53:00.004-04:00

I know I promised an in depth, behind the scenes look at our home with 9 kids for my next post, but the Hubster took the camera to work and has yet to return it. Instead, I thought I'd open up the mic and give you guys a chance to ask me some questions. Do you have adoption questions? Organization questions? Scheduling questions? Agency questions? I know I have plenty of questions for some of my fellow bloggers, but feel like I shouldn't ask. I realize you may be a little gun shy, due to my previous post. But, please, ask away. Wanna know how Steve and I met, my views on the election, how old I am, my favorite food? I'm giving you permission.... what do enquiring minds want to know?

Heather's Helpful Handbook of Hurtful Things Not To Say....

2008-10-21T10:13:00.004-04:00

1) You sure have your hands full! What I say is "yes we do, and our hearts are too". What I think is, "man , that's a good one, I hadn't noticed, and I surely have never heard that one before". What I wish is that people would stop pointing out the obvious. If I look a little flustered or am carrying 2 kids and chasing down a third, please don't remind me how 'full' my hands are... lend me one of yours, or at least just give me a knowing (non-condemning) smile.

2) Are all of these kids yours? We don't get asked this nearly as much as you think.. I'm pretty sure that's because someone is calling me "Mommy", "Momma", or "Mom" at a rate of once every 10 seconds. You don't have to watch us very long to figure it out! My answer when asked, though, is "absolutely"!

3) Are they brothers and sisters? Now this one bugs the tar out of me, especially when asked in front of the kids. Because of course they are brothers and sisters! They live together, eat together, fight together and love together. They are true siblings in every single sense of the word. It undermines everything that we are trying to instill in them to even care which ones are blood related, so please don't ask... it truly does not matter!

4) How do your real kids feel about you adopting so many more? Another doozy. They are ALL my real kids. They all have 8 brothers and sisters. They all share a bathroom. They all sit rather cozily around the kitchen table. They all 'sacrifice' some extras. No one asked Jamison, Jorah, Stella, Beatrice, Elias or Ishmael if they would like to be adopted. We were very open about our desire to adopt with Nathan, Hope and Emma, but we did not ask for their permission. We are the parents, we are led by The Lord to lead this family. Incidentally, however, they are as passionate about adopting as we are and are already on us about who our 'next one' will be. They remind us that there is room for one more around the table and in our van.

5) What happened to their parents? I understand the curiosity, really I do. But this is one area that is private, each child's story for themselves. They will learn the entire story when they are older, and they can make the choice who to tell, and how much they will share with whom. Something about the children being orphans at one point in their lives makes people think that they should be able to know all of the details. It's true, at one point in each of their lives, they didn't have anyone advocating for them, anyone to protect them from danger. But now they do, they have Steve and I. In order for a child to be in an orphanage, or placed for adoption, something very traumatic and hard had to have happened in their young lives. Their life here will be hard enough (learning English, learning a new family, being in a trans racial family) without people whispering behind their backs about their pasts. So please just don't ask, it matters, a lot, to THEM but we just aren't going to be telling YOU. Please try to be understanding about this.

6) Where do they all sleep? I want to tell people that we have plenty of room, because, hey, they all sleep on mats laid out in rows on the floor. Or maybe that we believe in co-sleeping and they all share our bed. The question does carry with it a certain amount of doubt that we can adequately care for all of our children, or at the very least an amount of curiousness as to how big our house is (therefore how much money we make). Most of the kids do share rooms, but we have space for everyone. (My next post will be "What does a home with 9 kids LOOK like", so stay tuned).

Now most people are just curious. They ask questions because they are interested and care. They may come across as insensitive or rude. But I have to remember that they are not educated in politically correct terms. They haven't been made to attend hours upon hours of training to in order to be deemed worthy of raising their children. So I smile, answer their questions as honestly and forthrightly as I can. I know that we are a conspicuous family when we are out, but to us, this is normal, this is just our family living life together.

Tagged... I'm it!

2008-10-20T15:46:00.005-04:00

I was tagged by my BBFF (Best Blogging Friend Forever) Amy Fabu.
Okay, in trying to come up with 7 fabulous, exciting or at least interesting things about myself I've made a discovery. I am boring. I am a total middle of the roader in all areas. I am organized, but not a neat freak. I'm sorta creative, but don't while away the hours in endless streams of artistic endeavors. I'm smart enough, but not nearly a Mensa candidate. I like to think I'm adventurous, but haven't done anything newsworthy. I wasn't exactly a tomboy, nor a girlie girl (I climbed trees AND made up roller skating routines to "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"). I'm pretty athletic, but not outstanding. I plan sorta, and fly by the seat of my pants sorta. I'm part practical, part dreamer. I had an extremely hard time coming up with ANYTHING!!! But you know what? I'm okay with it. You know why? Because God created me in this particular way to be the perfect wife, mother and friend to all of the amazing people He has put into my life. If I had any outstanding talents, gifts, dreams or traits to speak of, this wouldn't be my life. I would be off curing cancer, winning Gold medals or writing the next Newberry Award winning novel. Instead I spend my days cooking roast to feed my family, watching the dishes pile up while I sing Eensy Weensy Spider AGAIN, put ice on boo boos, drive to gymnastics and the Doctors office, do loads upon loads of laundry and tuck 9 beautiful children into bed each night. I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm rather glad I'm not 'good' at anything other than counting to 10, naming my colors, reading "Go Dogs Go" listening to the latest Middle School drama and changing diapers.

That being said, here is my attempt at coming up with 7 interesting things about myself:

1) I change my hair color and style almost daily. I've been blond, brown, red, bronze, multi-hued and even orange at times. I've had it long, curly, straight, flippy, spiky, angular, bobbed and asymmetrical. The people that know me in real life don't even comment, or really even notice when I change it anymore. I love to peruse the hair color aisle at Walmart, pick a cool color, go home and see what happens. I usually end up grabbing the scissors afterwards to 'trim' my hair to match the new color. I think this is my creative outlet, my little rebellion. I'm currently under contract with my good friend and my daughter to grow it out, though. So currently it's neither cool nor trendy... ugh.

2) I'm an adventurous eater, I love to try new exotic things. I love all sorts of foods that other people consider weird. There are 3 foods, however, that totally gross me out. I avoid them like the plague. I've been dared to eat them and have gagged hard enough to have the darers relent and dare me to do something different. Those 3 foods? Melon, milk and peanut butter.

3) Growing up I got into 3 fist fights with boys. In 3rd grade I punched a bully in the gut for putting his PB&J in my Vegetable Beef Soup (I didn't get in trouble). In 5th grade I knocked a boy to the ground for trying to kick us out of our tree fort (his Dad came to our house and told on me, my Dad laughed in his face and told him to toughen up his wimpy son). In 11th grade Science class a football player kept knocking me in the head, so I stood up, told him to stop it, he got embarrassed and shoved me, I threw a punch and gave him a bloody lip, he bled onto his white pants (we both got lunch detention, because I should've acted more lady-like).

4) I've lived in 18 different houses. My Dad was in the Navy and we moved every 2 years. Then I married Steve, and he was in the Air Force. He has been out for 8 years, but I still get wander lust after I live somewhere for about a year and a half. We've been in this house for about 16 months, so watch out! We can't go far, though, because Steve owns a local business.

5) I've got the world's biggest forehead. People that don't believe me have been shocked and embarrassed for me when they finally see it (it's safely hidden behind bangs now). I got the high forehead from Mom, and the wide forehead from Dad. If I was a good blogger I'd show you a picture, but I can't bring myself to do it.

6) I attended 4 different colleges, and still haven't graduated. Charles County Community College, Towson State, MD., University of Oklahoma, and University of Central Oklahoma. I was majoring in Physical Education. I may finish one day, but have no real desire to go back.

7) Steve and I dated long distance for the entirety of our courtship. I lived in Maryland then Oklahoma, he was from Iowa going to school in Colorado. We dated for 2 years, but saw each other for a total of less than one month before we got married. I didn't question our decision at all, neither did he, our parents, or any of our friends. It was just so natural and meant to be!!

Ok, there you have my great list. Now I tag Lauren and April.

Happy Birthday Jorah!!

2008-09-25T11:20:00.003-04:00

Today is Little Beans 2nd birthday. She is sweet, cuddly, funny, but not so good at sharing. She has been just an awesome blessing and daughter. We love you Jorah!!

Doctor-Round Two and starting school...

2008-09-24T09:28:00.004-04:00

We survived the doctors office. We were definitely conspicuous, but only because of sheer volume and our colorfulness. The kids all did fabulously. It was Stella's appointment and she was a trooper until the shots (she needed 4), but that only lasted for a second. The Chicken Pox came in handy, as she would have needed the Varivax vaccine as well, but LUCKILY (?) she already had the Pox, so only 4 for her.

Elias and Beatrice are today. They know now that the Doctor means shots, so they aren't as eager to go as they were yesterday. School is enough of an incentive, however, that they are willing to brave it!

For those that are wondering: Stella will be in 2nd grade, Beatrice in 1st, and Elias in Kindergarten. We weren't going to put Elias in school yet, but he knows his numbers and letters, the sounds they make, and can sound out simple words. Couple that with his having lost 6 teeth already, and we are going to try it out. (Children in Africa do lose their teeth earlier than their American counterparts, but 6 teeth in preschool would still be VERY early). The worst thing that will happen is that he isn't ready, and repeats Kindergarten. Not a huge tragedy. We shall see how they all do. They are starting on Monday and are counting down the days!! I really think that they are going to thrive, and I'm looking forward to watching them blossom! ( I accidently just typed bosom right there... I'm really NOT looking forward to watching them do THAT!!!)

Trampoline fun!

Yumm.....

2008-09-23T08:47:00.004-04:00

On Sunday we all loaded up and went to church. The kids have been so bored, and dying to go ANYWHERE. All of the books and experts suggest you cocoon at home with the kids for at least a few weeks. They all begged to go to church, what are you gonna do, say no? Every single one walked right into class and had a blast. In service, the Pastor surprised us by calling us up and praying for us at the end of service. Elias just grinned from ear to ear. Beatrice was a little shy, but they all handled it like champs. After church they took naps, then we made caramel apples, dipped in chocolate chips, sprinkles or Heath Bar. All that junk is ok as long as you eat it with apples, right? It was a really good day and felt manageable and normal really. Normal feels really good right about now! Now we are off to the first of the new kids Doctors appointments to get up to date on shots etc. for school. They are itching to go, they beg every day!! To go to school, that is, not the Dr.!! I'll be flying solo with 6 little ones at the appt.... wish me luck!!

A day in our life...

2008-09-19T13:47:00.005-04:00

So far today we are dealing with the Chicken Pox (Stella), 2 with ringworm (Jorah and Ishmael), one with excema everywhere (Jorah) 2 colds (Jorah and Ishmael), one bloody lip (Jorah), one bloody nose (Stella), 3 splinters (Jamison, Elias and my friend Beth), one forgotten P.E. uniform (Hope), and 157 hugs, 93 kisses, 9 loved kiddos and one happy, worn out Momma!!!

(The kids in Ghana when they were illness and splinter free!!)

We are home!!!

2008-09-17T07:47:00.002-04:00

We are home, with lots of stories, laughter, playing, running around, and unfortunately the CHICKEN POX!!!

Thank You all for your prayers and support, more later... gotta go play!

We are off and GHANA!!!

2008-09-10T07:31:00.002-04:00

Praise Him, praise Him....

We are leaving on a jet plane in a few short hours. We will try to post while there, but who knows? I'm so excited and overwhelmed, I can hardly stand it. I am the most blessed human on the face of the earth right now. Truly, truly blessed!!

See ya in a few days (with Stella, Beatrice, Elias and Ishmael)... see, I told you, blessed!

Adoption is a numbers game...

2008-09-03T07:18:00.003-04:00

1. It has been 243 days since we made the decision to adopt.

2. It has been 171 days since we knew the names and ages of our kids.

3. It has been 167 days since we first saw their picture.

4. It has been 134 days since we got their referral.

5. It has been 80 days since they were legally ours.

6. It has been 53 days since we last saw and hugged them.

7. We will see the kids again in 8 days!!!

8. We will have the kids home forever in 13 days!!!

That's right, we have plane tickets!! We leave in 7 days, will be there in 8, and we will bring them home in 13 days!!!!

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

2008-09-01T15:25:00.003-04:00

1. Listening to kids giggle in the other room together.
2. Singing praises in church when the goose bumps come.
3. Tucking my kids in (when no one is spending the night somewhere else).
4. Drinking a cold Coke... anytime.
5. Breaking out the Christmas decorations.
6. Walking into an air conditioned room, after being outside in the heat.
7. Having one of my kids randomly say "I love you".
8. Watching the season premier of Grey's Anatomy with my BFF Beth.
9. Catching Hubby's eye from across the room when something happens that only we 'get'.
10. A good back rub.
11. Arby's Jalapeno Poppers.
12. Having a clean house.
13. Falling to sleep in a thunderstorm.
14. Having a good hair day and cute toenails at the same time (been a long time for that one).
15. Seeing the faithfulness of God in a real way.
16. An organized closet.
17. Getting into a car with a full tank, when you thought it was empty (Thanks, Baby!).
18. Hearing about someone being pregnant or adopting.
19. Naming babies.
20. Going shopping with a gift card.
21. Putting on a sweatshirt, pj pants and socks at the end of the day.
22. When the kids are patient with each other.
23. A new school year with clean binders and sharpened pencils.
24. 4 shining happy faces waiting for me in Ghana.
25. Getting the call that says we can go get them!!!!

We are so blessed, in both big ways and small.

Count your blessings, name them one by one!!!

Guess What?

2008-09-01T11:44:00.003-04:00

We got our final passport! I'm all in a twitter and smiling like a fool right now. We will know tomorrow when our travel date is. Probably either next week or the week after. Can you believe it? Our kids are coming home. Aaah, I'm so happy. Thank you God, thank you.

I have lots to do now, but how are you supposed to get stuff done when you are twirling?

3/4 of the way there...

2008-08-28T21:53:00.003-04:00

OK folks, we got Beatrice's passport today!! Now we are just waiting for sweet little Elias'. Our guy on the ground in Ghana will be out of town until Monday, so let's all pray that the passport gets processed tomorrow, and we find out on Monday (no labor day in Ghana)... whadayasay?!

Dizzy Anyone?

2008-08-24T21:33:00.001-04:00

Anyone else getting a little light headed trying to read this blog? I think I may have to play around with new backgrounds tonight. My head is spinnin' with this one!!

No Passports This Week For Us...

2008-08-23T09:07:00.002-04:00

But my good friend Fabu got hers! Head on over to Ghana Adopt Three and congratulate her family. We all heard early in the day yesterday that 'someone' got their passports. About 8 p.m. (longest day EVER) we got the great news that Fabu got her little darlin's. The good news for us is that passports ARE coming out, we just need to wait a little while longer. It literally could be any day, well, not today, being Saturday and all, but you know what I mean. Another of my good friends, that I had the pleasure of meeting in Ghana, is in my boat too. If you don't mind, please say a little prayer for both of our families, this waiting business is tough. The worst part is that we can't explain to our kids in Ghana why we aren't there yet. I pray that God gives them peace and patience.... and us too!!!

The Waiting Game...

2008-08-21T20:22:00.003-04:00

Well, we have been getting in lots of waiting practice lately. We are learning what real patience is all about. It has given me plenty of time to talk to God about how I feel about this situation, and for Him to talk to me about, well... me. Apparently this whole thing is not about me. God is much bigger than that.

The Lord has it all worked out the way that will be to His greatest glory, and He works all things out for good. It is our job to be still, get closer to Him and glorify Him in our waiting. Everybody doing that? Good, me either. I am at a peaceful place right now, though, and am waiting expectantly to see what He has for us.

Here are some reasons that have come to mind about why we may be waiting so long.

1. Every day that those kids stay in Ghana is one day longer that they are immersed in their culture, one day longer to cement in their memories their birth land.

2. Stella and Beatrice (and 3 other girls whose families are waiting for passports also) are the 'heads of the household'. They have been at Eban House the longest. They are the leaders. They know the ropes and are teaching the 'newbies' how the process works. Maybe someone there really needs them right now, even more than we need them here. Especially in light of the tragedy that they all witnessed.

3. Maybe we, the parents, need some time to REALLY miss them, ACHE for them, so that we can appreciate them, even in all of the struggles that may occur once they are home. So that we may never say, "This is too hard, what in the world have I done?".

4. Maybe our reactions to the waiting are speaking to someone here.

5. Maybe we are being taught a lesson.

6. Maybe there is a divine appointment in Ghana that we must keep, and the time has not yet come. A chance to witness to somebody, or meeting your next child perhaps... (Robin, you NEED a boy, Fabu, you have extra room now, right?) :)

7. Maybe we will never know, but God does. And that is always enough.

Just random thoughts, but they have given me a measure of peace through this, and graciousness to deal with the hundreds of people a day asking "when do you bring home the kids?".

Isaiah 40:31
but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.

New Dreams

2008-08-17T09:36:00.004-04:00

When contemplating having nine children, ones dreams and aspirations must necessarily change. My new take my breath away, gotta have it dream is this:

Coming in a very close 2nd are the, to die for Whirlpool Duet washer and dryer:

Aaaah, a 15 passenger conversion van with cup holders and a DVD player, and a washer and dryer that can wash 16 pairs of jeans at a time... a girl can only dream....

NOPE

2008-08-15T19:12:00.001-04:00

Still praying and hoping for those passports.

I miss them....

2008-08-14T13:48:00.002-04:00

No Passports This Week Either :(

2008-08-08T16:30:00.002-04:00

No news is sometimes bad news. My heart simply aches to hold them again, to bring them home, to their home. Lord, please allow these passports to be released and signed in your perfect timing and will. Be merciful Lord, and please allow it to be soon. Thank you for giving us peace and patience in the meantime. Amen.

Ghana Trip- Day 2

2008-08-06T08:40:00.005-04:00

This is the 'open air' church, to the right is the kids Sunday School building

Our 2nd day in Ghana was a Sunday. That means CHURCH!! The church the kiddos attend was directly across from Maa Guesthouse, where we stayed. We met them over there. All of the kids had obviously been dressed up and coifed to their very finest. They were all smiling and beautiful in their dresses and dressy shoes. Their Auntie came and dropped them off, then left. She said their teacher would be there soon. Okay. So now Steve and I have 35 kids ages 1-11, and we don't know their names, and can't even speak the language of all of them! Plus we weren't sure what was expected of us. Should we make them sit down? Are they allowed to go outside (which they were doing). Ultimately it turns out that children in Ghana are given MUCH more freedom than our American counterparts. When they need to go to the bathroom, they just go. No asking. They can go outside for a bit, then decide to come back when they want. It was truly freaking me out, though. Eventually the Sunday School teacher did arrive. She sang lots of African and American songs with the kids. They knew every one, even the new kids. Then another teacher arrived. She told Tater, Joby and Lulu that they needed to go to their class now, and Steve could go with them. They just hopped right up and followed. I was very proud of them. I stayed with the Eban House kids as we learned about "do not worry about your life". It seemed very fitting for children going through so much change and uncertainty right now. For the most part the children behaved very well. My Ishy fell asleep on my shoulder, as we sat by the open door (nice breeze). Sunday School was very pleasant. Afterwards the teacher came up and said "it is closed". I asked her what I should do, and she said "wait". Alrighty then. So now I alone had 35 kids that literally burst through the doors out into the courtyard. Right next to the open air church where service was going on. I'm thinking that any minute some angry Ghanaian man was gonna come out and yell at me to keep the kids quiet! Most of them ran around the corner, so I followed. There were Steve and the kids. Sitting in their class, an outside porch. The kids were laughing and carrying on, I was freakin out. Finally Sunday School was over and we all made our way back to Eban House. No one was mad, no one was in trouble. Ellen and I agreed, though, that the sun was "plenty" while we were waiting!

When we got back to Eban House, we brought Stella Beatrice, Elias and Ishmael back to our guesthouse to get ready, because we were going to the.... beach! The kids were excited to be going on an adventure. I was excited to have them out by ourselves... my family. We got the kids all dressed in their first swimsuits, thankfully I had bought the right sizes for everybody. Then our driver, Edward. came to pick us up and take us to the beach! The ride was hot and bumpy, but fun, to see the kids sitting in the van, smiling away. We got to the beach, found a secluded spot, and staked our claim. From what I could understand, the kids had never been to the beach before. That did not stop Stella Bella AT ALL. My girl ran right into the waves, got knocked down, came up laughing at went right back for more. It was hilarious, and heartwarming. Sweet Bea was a little more tentative, but would be slightly more daring if Joby and Lulu were there with her. Elias went out into the waves a little, but much preferred staying by the shore and getting tumbled a bit by the waves as they came in. Lil Ishy was not enjoying the water that much, but was liking watching all the fun in the comfort of Mommy or Daddy's arms. I was blessed beyond measure, watching 7 of my 9 kids getting along, helping each other, bonding and having a blast together in the Ocean... in Ghana. Whodathunkit?

A very, very good day!!!

No Passports This Week :(

2008-08-01T14:09:00.003-04:00

So we are trying to "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12

Right now when everything in us yearns for four more little giggle boxes to fill our home, we are trying to count our blessings. We are trying to be joyful. We are blessed that these children WILL come home to us, they (we all) are healthy, it seems we will have a few more weeks of relative calm here, there are 2 Momma's in Ghana loving on my kids and reminding them how much we miss and love them, AND to top it all off, the Lord has us all firmly in His hand, and there is no better place to be... not even Ghana (although, it is running a close 2nd right now)!!

Check back next week for more Operation Passport updates!

Some Progress...

2008-07-29T08:29:00.002-04:00

Our I600 has been approved! That is the immigration paperwork for our kids that we filed while in Ghana. I started calling the American Embassy (em-BAH-see as they say in Ghana) last week. The first few times they said it was under review. Thursday afternoon they told me to call in the morning for an update. Hmmm, is that bad? Is there a problem? Turns out that means it was probably approved on Friday, but they didn't care to answer my calls again until I woke up at 5:00 am this morning to call them when they opened this morning!

What does that mean, you ask? Normally that means that our main man in Ghana files for the kids visa on a Monday and we can jet on over to Ghana to pick them up on Friday. The problem is that two of our kids are still passportless. So no jetting to Ghana for us quite yet. I'm praying hard for the passports to be issued this Friday (it seems they are all issued on Fridays), then Percy can file for our visas on Monday, and we can pick the kiddos up anytime after Friday the 8th (travel maybe the 6th through the 10th). That is best case scenario. The passports are not being issued in a timely manner, however. There is a family adopting from Ghana with a different agency that has been waiting 2 months, I believe, for theirs. So we are trusting the Lord to bring those passports at His appointed time. Meanwhile, we are keeping busy building a privacy fence, painting rooms, and buying school supplies.

Keep checking back for progress on OPERATION PASSPORT.

Sad News (a little late)

2008-07-28T14:12:00.004-04:00

We have had a rough week here at our house. Eban House, the children's home where our Ghana kids are living, was broken into last Sunday night. I really don't have the heart to go into it yet. We would really appreciate your prayers, though, so wanted to let you know about it. All of you have been so very supportive and loving, and we knew that you'd want the bad with the good. The story has been told by some of my friends who have/had children living at Eban House, so I'll let them tell you the story. If you think about it, please pray for Auntie Esther, the rest of the staff, our brave Stella, and all of the other children at Eban House. Please read about it here and here. Thank you so much for praying with us during this time.

Video of our cutie pies!!

2008-07-18T23:30:00.002-04:00

This a video of our babies singing some songs. It was taken by a visiting Momma (who is awesome, by the way), before we went to Ghana. Just thought you might want to see and hear them in action!!!

Sears Children from AAIGhana on Vimeo.
We miss them so much. So, so much.

(Don't worry, we'll get back to our Ghana diary)

Ghana Trip- Day 1

2008-07-14T15:33:00.004-04:00

We arrived in Accra, Ghana at 8:30 a.m. I was a little nervous about the whole being in a new culture thing. I was very conscientious about how I was talking, who I was looking at, and for how long. We first stood in a rather long immigration line. I'm not sure what they do there besides check your passports and yellow fever vaccine cards, because they wouldn't let the rest of us beyond the red line. After that, we detoured to exchange some money, that went smoothly. Then we went into the bathroom. Joby found an empty stall and went right in. I went to the last stall. I looked in, and there was a hole in the ground with porcelain foot treads on either side. I thought, ok, Joby obviously did it with no hesitation, so can I. So I squatted with all the dexterity that a white woman carrying 2 carry ons could muster. When I was done, I went out and started explaining to Lu Lu how to do it. She looked at me funny, and said she wasn't gonna go in that one, she was waiting for Joby's. What? Turns out all the rest were normal. Oh well, when in Rome.Then we went to get our luggage. I was surprised how fast we got it all. We then went to customs. All the guy did was ask why we were there. I had a sudden moment of panic. Where we supposed to say travel? Holiday? Vacation? Adopting? To admire your Ghanaian culture? When Steve blurted out that we were adopting 4 children here.... the guy smiled and said "You are welcome!" Thank goodness. We then walked the world's most unruly luggage cart down a long ramp and immediately our driver, Edward, came up and introduced himself. Hello? Was it that obvious who we were? I guess there weren't many white couples with 3 children traveling to Ghana that day. We then followed him outside, IN GHANA, ohmagosh, we are there. Our AAI contact, Percy, was outside waiting. We all piled into Eban Houses's van, and we were off!

I will take a moment here, to tell you, try to tell you, about driving in Ghana. First off, there are no speed limits. No seat belts. No center lines. No stop signs. No stop light. When you want to merge in, you just go, cuz the guy behind you surely has brakes. Don't worry, you honk a couple times to let them know you are coming. It's not a mean honk, just a beep beep to say "hey, friend! I'm about to barrel into you, like it or not, you better slow down for me... thank you, friend. Also, the roads are pot hole heaven. You bounce around like popcorn kernels in a hot pan. Then you swerve to miss the big ones, you then stay in the other 'lane' until the very last possible moment, before swerving back to your original spot. All this with goats, bicycles, and women carrying large items for sale on their heads, literally inches away from your car.

We made it to Maa Oye Guesthouse, our home away from home. We had requested 2 adjoining rooms, but they weren't available. So Steve and Tater share one room with a bathroom. The girls and I shared another with a bathroom. No hot water, no air conditioning, but they were clean and fine. Auntie Janet from Eban House come to walk us down to Eban House, to meet our children for the first time. We walked down the dirt road (loose term there), goats, dogs, chickens, potholes, puddles, children everywhere. We got to the gate. I was thinking, wow we are here, finally here. The gate starts to open and... we were literally mobbed by 35 smiling, laughing children. They were all over us, hugging jumping, talking. But where were ours? I scanned the faces. Little ishmael was walking around, oblivious that his parents were standing right there. I picked up that little warm body and he snuggled up.... aah. Like a shot, Stella burst through the doors and came straight for me, well straight for (wish I could say me) Tater, Lu and Joby. That was sweet. Steve had Beatrice and Elias.We all took turns hugging on all of them. It was very, very fun. We spent the rest of the morning just hanging out at Eban house with them, trying to start some attachments, while simultaneously loving on 31 others. It was alot to take in. It was surreal. It was cool. That night, when the kids had dinner, we left to go back to Maa Oye, exhausted. After a dinner of fried rice and chicken (good), we took cold showers and fell down into bed. All three of us girls. The room was nice and comfortable, not too hot. It just took some getting used to all of the noise RIGHT outside of our window. Apparently the church across the street has services every day, all day. And the house outside the window is abuzz with activity, and yelling from sunup until late into the night. I fell asleep thinking about the events of the day, smiling to myself, because our children that we prayed for all this time, were right down the street. We were here. In GHANA!!!!!!!

WE ARE IN GHANA!!!

2008-07-11T05:46:00.002-04:00

Hey Everybody!

I know I said I would post more often...but electricity is iffy, and internet even more so!!! The first couple of days there was no internet, so we are going with the better late than never motto!

So... we have met and loved on our kiddos! They are so amazing and cool! Saturday morning, first thing we walked down the alley to Eban House,opened up the gate, and was mobbed by 30 plus happy smiling children. It took a moment to find our own, but they were thereed to hug us. It was really surreal. It was everything you have been waiting and praying for, actually coming true. Add in some sleep deprivation, and intense nerves, and it was unreal!!!

When I get home, I will blog about each days events, and give you a window into the personalities of each child. For now, here is a quick rundown...

Day 1- Met the kids and just hung out.

Day 2- Church and the beach

Day 3- Filed our I600 at the Embassy, and went to the Art Market.

Day 4- Hung out at Eban House, Steve painted, (I went with Ishmael to the Hospital, he has malaria.. don't worry, he's doing much better now!!)

Day 5- Hung out, painted.

Day 6- Went to the pool at La Palm resort (as nice as being in Hawaii!), ate at Frankie's (American Food and AIR CONDITIOINED) The best day ever!!!

Day 7- Today.. so we'll see!!!

So this is what I think of each child so far...

Stella- My little fearless one. She has never been in the water before, and by the end of the day could swim!!! She is the fearless leader, my warrioress!!

Beatrice- She is a shy little flower tht blooms a little every day. When she comes to stand by you,it is an honor!!

Elias- My happy smiling little man!! So content, and pleasant. Always with a smile, and a laugh! He is the only one to say that he loves me, so far. Great little guy.

Ishmael- Oh my, will he and Little Bean ever have to duke it out! He seems to be a little bit of a Momma's boy, which I LOVE!! He is happy and content, and a little charmer.

I will write loads more upon my return, we get back midnight Saturday night. Thank you everyone for all of your prayers!! We love everybody!! I have so much to say, so much to share, can't wait to get back to where interntet is not paid for by the minute!!

Love,
Heather, Steve and the kids

Here Today Ghana Tomorrow!!

2008-07-04T00:16:00.003-04:00

Hey Everybody,

Well, it's midnight, and we are leaving tomorrow. I should be asleep. But alas, I am not. My living room is filled with suitcases and carry ons. My brain is even more filled with... everything.

When I've watched others get to this point, I've envied them there excitement and joy. Now, here we are. It is our turn. While I do have excitement and joy (when I have 2 seconds to think about it), my primary emotion is stress. Now, I'm not sure that stress is an emotion. But I'm sure feeling it. I just can't believe that everything is going to work out, that we are REALLY going to meet them. So my mind worries about all of the details, the packing, what to wear, how to carry it, did we bring enough, too much, and the paperwork. Whoa Nelly, the paperwork. Putting that together was way worse than the Dossier. Lots more riding on this puppy!
But, we are 95% ready to go. We have our I600 paperwork ready, we have our I864 paperwork ready. We have the donations ready, we have passports and visas ready, we have money, we have Edward picking us up, and a place to stay. The rest is all details. Because people, we will be touching down in Ghana, the birthplace of our children, breathing the same air, smelling the same smells, seeing the same sky as our 4 blessings... in 28 hours. How amazing is that? How remarkably blessed are we all, that God has allowed us to play a part in this miracle? It is humbling and simply awe inspiring. For truly:

No eye has seen,
No ear has heard,
No mind can conceive,
What God has planned,
for those that love Him.

We surely could not have imagined the path our lives would take. So very cool. So. very. cool.

Thank you everybody for all of your support, love, and well wishes. We couldn't have done this without you!!!

Going To Ghana!!!
Heather

We are home!!

2008-07-01T23:29:00.002-04:00

Yes, we are home! We got back into town last night at about 10 pm. I stayed up until 3 am stressing about adoption paperwork. I've done adoption paperwork all day today. Now it is 11:30 pm, and I must hit the hay, and put an end to my stressy day!

I have lots to tell about our super fun trip to IA/IL. And lots to tell about Ghana trip preparations. It will wait until tomorrow.

I've really missed everyone. Did you know that there are people in Iowa that don't have internet? I'm not talking about Old Granny's either. Very cool, trendy people. Personally, I was in withdrawals. I'm back now, and will meet and hold my new children in about 81 hours. It's down to hours now. How cool is that?

Check out my new little ticker on the right...

2008-06-19T21:23:00.006-04:00

That's right, we are goin' to Ghana people!! We have researched, emailed, called, talked and decided. Then we stroked a big fat check... gasp. Now we are heading to Ghana the 4th of July, arriving the 5th of July at 8:20 in the morning, and staying until July 12th. We will get to meet the kids, hang out with them, love them up a little (a lot).

We technically aren't supposed to make travel plans until the official adoption decree has been issued, which it has not yet. You need the decree to file the immigration paperwork. However, we are taking the older 3 kiddos with us, and they have church camp the next week, the week prior our niece Lexi is getting married, so the week of July 4th is, like, totally perfect for us to go. Our 'plan B', if we don't have a decree by the time we are supposed to leave Ghana, is for Steve to come back with the kids, and I'll stay there until I can file our paperwork. Hopefully, we can all come back home together and put together beds, paint, shop, stock pantries and generally go ca-ra-zy!!

While we are in Ghana, Steve's sister and Mom are coming out to stay with the youngest 2. Thank you God for those lovely ladies! So far, everything is falling into place beautifully. It is surreal. I have watched others who have gone before us reach all of the important markers, and wondered what it would be like when it was our turn. I say it is completely unreal. One moment I feel like my heart is bursting from excitement, tears are gushing out, and I'm smiling like a mad woman. The next moment I'm freaking out at all there is to do, worrying that I'm missing something, asking a jillion questions in my mind (will they like me? Will all of the Ghanaians think I'm a weirdo? Will our decree be done in time? Will we have our passports before we need to go back to Ghana? What should I pack? Tennis shoes or sandals? Oh.. sunscreen, don't forget sunscreen. Oh, Little Bean, I'm gonna miss you! You know what, I'm just staying in Ghana until I can bring them home, a Momma doesn't leave). Believe me, the list goes on and on... but literally the next second, I'm in disbelief, seperating myself from all of the emotion, playing Mario Kart Wii like I have nothing else in the world going on. It's a roller coaster ride, for sure. But a ride I'm sure I'll miss when it's my turn to get off. My heart is just so in love with those four kids, I'm thankful that God picked them for us, thankful that I will hold their hand, kiss their boo boo, listen to their giggles, and watch them sleep.

People, we meet our kids in 2 weeks and 2 days. The only thing keeping me from complete euphoria, the only hitch in my get up, the only snake in my boots, the only fly in my soup, is that my good friend is experiencing a little delay right now. We were supposed to go to court together, and meet our kids together. Please head on over and give my friend Fabu some cyber lovin', and tell her Sweets sent ya!

Thanks!
Heather

2008-06-19T21:23:00.001-04:00

Thousand Words Thursday...

2008-06-19T18:48:00.003-04:00

Fun in the sun...

Little Bean and Goofy Girl enjoying a little post pool popcorn

Goofy and Joby hanging

The calm before the Chicken Fight (not all of these children belong to me, but I feed them enough that I claim them on my taxes)

Fun in the Summer sun... gotta love it!!!

So..... what's next?

2008-06-16T08:34:00.002-04:00

Well, the kiddos are legally ours, now what? The question we hear twenty-eight times a day is, "so when do they come home?". If only I knew! I can tell you that something just doesn't feel quite right about having 4 children who belong to me in every sense of the word living on another continent without me. So here is the run down of what is next:

1) Wait for the official adoption decree. That usually takes 2-3 weeks to be issued. Three weeks from court is July 4th. Once that is issued we can...

2) Travel to Ghana to file the I600, which is immigration paperwork that the kids need to come to the U.S. and...

3) Meet and smother our children with love and hugs and kisses (#2 and 3 are not necessarily in the right order!)

4) Return home to wait for the I600 approval, which usually takes 3-4 weeks.

5) Wait for the kids passports to be issued, which could happen any day, or a couple months from now (but praying hard for sooner rather than later).

6) Once we have the I600 approval and the passports, the kids Visas will be issued. Those are pretty fast, a couple days to a week.

7) When we have a Visa pick-up day we will travel back to Ghana, have a good-bye party at the Home for the kids, and take permanent custody of them. Oh what a joyous day that will be!!!

So, if everything goes perfectly (don't hold your breath), we could have the children home forever the first part of August. I would love that. But if that is not what God's plan is, I will try to wait joyfully and patiently for His perfect timing and will to come to fruition.

Introducing Our New Children...

2008-06-13T07:45:00.004-04:00

Stella, Beatrice, Elias and Ishmael (insert our last name). How cool is that?

Everything went beautifully at court. Our kids in Ghana are out having pizza right now to celebrate. I hope that they are as excited as we are. We are blessed beyond measure...

God sets the lonely in families... Psalm 68:6

We're Going to Court, We're Going to Court!!!!!

2008-06-12T21:27:00.002-04:00

Ok, folks... a big shout out to my Adoption Warrior Princess and our troops on the ground in Ghana!!! We are going to court tomorrow! Woo hoo! Thank you so much for all of your prayers. We love you so much. Doing the Happy Dance.....

Calling All Prayer Warriors!

2008-06-11T13:27:00.002-04:00

I just heard that court may not happen this Friday. There are 3 families that are 'ready' to go, but the attorney likes to take 2 at a time. Our Adoption Warrior Princess (as I like to call her) is doing her best to get us to court Friday as well, but in truth that may not happen. I would like to just humbly ask that you please say a prayer for us, our kids in Ghana, the attorney, the judge and all of the people involved, so that His plan and perfect will are seen and done in this situation.

We rest in The Lord, and know that his ways are not always ours, and he works everything out for the good. We are content in Him. No matter what the outcome. No matter what. Thank you, everybody!

One of my dear friends gave me this encouraging verse:

And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in Heaven and on Earth has been given to me."

Even in Ghana! :)

New Year's Eve and Court

2008-06-09T14:24:00.003-04:00

New Year's Eve 2004 we had just put in our first application for adoption. It was with both excited and fearful hearts that we embarked on that journey. We had no idea what to expect, how long it would take. Would it be a time of God stretching our faith? Would we receive a baby quickly, and have an amazing story to tell? What would our families think? How would Tater, Joby and Lu react? That New Years Eve we sat in our friend Tim's house. Our friends were chatty and partying it up as much as good Baptists are allowed. I, however, was a little mellow. I was contemplating how awesome our God was to allow us to ACTUALLY adopt. I'd been praying for it forever. Would 2005 be the year we got to experience the miracle of adoption? Yes it was. Our Goofy Girl was placed in our homes June 13th. That is this friday. Her GOTCHA day.

Little Bean was given to us fast and furiously. I never had a New Years Eve to contemplate if that year would bring us another child. We decided to do Foster Care in June 2006. She was placed in our arms September 28th. Thankfully that tiny little thing is our baby girl, forever.

New Year's Eve 2006 was a day that I was SURE the next year would not bring us another child. My arms were truly full to overflowing with our five beauties. We were in the middle of praying and fighting to keep Bean. Goofy was not yet 2. We were selling our house, keeping it clean, worrying, and looking for another one. I drove the kids to and from school everyday to keep them in the 'good' school district. I was a little stressy. 2007 would not be a good year for another baby.

Then came New Year's Eve 2007. This past New Year's. It was a day that Steve and I weren't sure what could happen the next year. I honestly could picture us being 'done' with 5 cutie patooties. But I did feel that we still had room for one more. We had room in our hearts, minds, arms and house. So we started out 2008 oblivious to the bountiful blessings that the Lord had in store for us. God had a sweet, sweet secret that we were not yet privy to.

This Friday may well be one of those red letter days, that you remember forever. This Friday we have a court date. This Friday an attorney in Ghana will go to court and ask that S, B, E and I be legally ours forever. This Friday is June 13th. This Friday is Goofy Girl's Gotcha Day. I am praying that this friday is truly momentous in our family. We ask that you join us in praying these sweet babies home. Court in Ghana can be delayed numerous times. This is our first shot. We could easily pass this time. Or next time. Or the next. Whenever God allows it, we will pass court, and those little children I've never met but love unconditionally will have our last name. And be our children.

Regardless if it is this Friday, or a month from now, it will still be this year. 2008. A year that will go down in our families history as the glorious year that four beautiful Ghanaian children became our four beautiful Ghanaian children. I for one, am glad that we don't always know what is around the corner. I am glad that God keeps secrets and surprises from us until just the right moment. I am glad that this year I will be the Momma to 9 babies.

Thank you for praying for court this Friday, I'll let you know as soon as I know (which should be pretty early, as we are 4 hours ahead of Ghana). Love you guys!

Thousand words Thursday...

2008-06-05T15:41:00.003-04:00

This is Little I. Some day soon he will climb up in my lap and fall asleep. Oh for it to be soon.

Opening the pool...

2008-06-04T14:50:00.004-04:00

We took the cover off of the pool, laid it out and scrubbed it down, and hosed it off. Then we had a problem. Where should we let it dry out? It was very windy and hot. We didn't want to kill off the grass, so that was out. We tried hanging it over the trampoline, but it blew off. Steve and I decided to shake it dry, flapping it up and down like a parachute. Well, that turned into way too much fun to be called work!

Clean, dry pool cover, happy kids.... mission accomplished.

40 Perfect Toes!

2008-06-02T17:58:00.007-04:00

If you think these tootsies are cute, you should see the rest of them!

We are moving to Ghana...

2008-06-02T07:08:00.002-04:00

Ummm... make that I wish we were moving to Ghana. There is a marvelous Momma of a beautiful little girl in Ghana right now. She has blessed us beyond measure. She has taken some gorgeous pictures of S, B, E and I. Another Momma just returned home after visiting her 2 little girls. She took video of the kids singing and dancing. It is surreal to actually see them move. They are real! Their little arms and legs hug, and wave and are *beautiful*!! The pictures of the kids are so good! She took them outside. We have pictures of them leaning on each other, playing on the swing set together, close-ups of their little feet and hands. I miss them.. and I love them.

The kids received Welcome Bags from us recently. These bags let the kids know that they are being adopted. We put albums of ourselves, our house, the school, our church in there. We also added some stickers, necklaces and bracelets for S and B. For E and I we put in stickers and some Hot Wheels. Each of them also got a t-shirt with our family picture on it. It said We Love S*****, we love I******* etc. I can't imagine what goes on in their little heads, seeing a picture of their new Mommy and Daddy for the first time. Knowing that they get a second chance at having a family to call their own.

So, our hearts belong to those amazing kids in Ghana. Their hearts are becoming hopeful that they actually have a family in America to call their own. Somewhere out in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean our hearts have met and are being knit together in a way that can only be called a miracle. Half of my children get to live with me, we get to snuggle, play games, jump on the trampoline, sing songs, tuck in for the night. I kiss their boo boos, check their homework, make them dinner, and love on them all day long (as much as they will allow!). The other half of my children do not live with me. Our Ghanaian children are being loved and cared for by a loving staff, they are being fed well, and taught well, and play well. But not by me, not by a Momma who thinks they hung the moon. Not by a Momma whose heart swells listening to them laugh, not by a Momma who misses them while they are at school. Not by THEIR Momma.

That is why we are moving to Ghana.

Worth at least a thousand words...

2008-05-29T08:48:00.004-04:00

It's not easy being green...

2008-05-27T21:26:00.009-04:00

Now that I've pretty well documented all of the major milestones in our life in 7 posts, I can share some day to day stuff with you! This Memorial Day we bypassed the beach, nixed Water Country, said no to Busch Gardens, and decided to paint shutters. They definitely needed to be done. The beauty of our mint green siding was being diminished by our faded hunter green to sage green shutters. Our home was sporting every shade of green known to man! I love green just as much as Kermit himself, but even he would have to agree that enough is enough! While I would love to change the siding to a gorgeous tan, I contented myself with painting the shutters a dark greenish black, to match the roof. Yes, even the roof is green. The people that built this house were amphibious.

Before:

During:

STILL during (the paint fumes and top 500 songs of all times were starting to get to us):

After:

No one can accuse us of not being "green"!

We're Ghana Adopt!

2008-05-27T14:03:00.003-04:00

What I really want to do is show you a picture of our 4 gorgeous children waiting for us in Ghana. But since we can not do that until we pass court, I will just have to tell you a little about them, and how they came to be ours, and show you a picture of our oldest three kids sporting Yellow Fever Vaccine wounds. Ouchie!! But worth it, as we need those for travel to Ghana!

About a year ago, Lou Lou and I were watching the news. There was a segment about Ghana and the problems they are having with unhealthy water. Lou went to bed that night praying for the children there. Not only praying for the children, but praying that we would adopt some brothers. I had never even heard of anyone adopting from Ghana, so we looked it up. It had just opened up to International adoption. Uh Oh!! Apparently God liked her idea.

It took Steve and I until about January to get on board with Lou. She prayed for this adoption nightly the whole time.

February- sent off all applications
March 4th- first home study visit
March 11- found out the names and ages of a sibling set of four
March 19th- mailed I600a application (to get pre-approval to adopt internationally)
March 27th- applied for passports
April 10th- fingerprints at USCIS
April 17th-home study approved!
April 19th- Got referral of S, B, E and I!!!!
April 25th- Dossier mailed to Ghana
April 25th- applied for kids passports
May 10th- received our 171h (the pre-approval to adopt internationally)
May 21st- they got presents we sent them, and know they will be adopted by us!

Where are we now? Waiting for court. We are hopeful that court will be sometime near the end of June. Adoptions in Ghana are in somewhat uncharted territory. Court can be delayed 2, 3 times or more routinely. So we are putting it all in God's hands, which is a sight more safe than in our own! About 3 weeks after court we get our official adoption decree, which means we can travel to Ghana and meet our babies! While there, we will file some immigration paperwork, and stay about a week. Tater, Joby and Lou will go with us. About a month later, we will travel back to pick up our kiddos and bring them home to us FOREVER!!!

It looks like they should be home late August, or early September. We are guarding our hearts, and trying not to be too optimistic, as a number of things could happen to make the timeline longer. This is just a guess!

S is an 8 year old girl with gorgeous huge brown eyes. She has told other visiting Momma's that she wants me to come and take her to America, and that she wants a white bike.

B is a 6 year old beautiful girl. She is a little quiet and reserved, and has said that she wants a yellow basket, and that she loves her Mommy!

E is a 4 year old boy, without his front teeth (he lost them in an accident). His toothless grin is absolutely adorable. He loves cats, and is proud of his schoolwork.

I is a cutie boy of 2. He is described as a lover and cuddler (be still my heart)!

We are just so excited to have the honor of adding them to our family. We can't wait to hug and kiss them up, and smother them with love. We miss them, even though we don't yet know them. Our hearts are bonded, yet we are separated by an ocean. When God allows it, I will run to Ghana (ok, fine... fly), scoop those babies up, and never let them go!!!

"Lonely" Tater Tot

2008-05-27T13:07:00.007-04:00

This handsome guy is our boy, Tater. He was welcomed with grateful hearts on May 27, 1995. Thirteen years ago, today. He weighed 8 lbs. 10 ozs. We just could not believe how much you could love a little baby. He was a great baby, who we adored. He has been a little lonely up til now, being the only boy with 4 sisters. But that is all about to change!

Tater has officially reached teen hood, and I don't like it! I want him to live with me forever, this growing up business is for the birds! He has been such a joy! He has just been so easy! I often say that if all children were like him, we'd have a dozen. It looks as though we may make that mark anyway!

Tater loves chicken nuggets, Mountain Dew, books, the Presidents, drawing cartoons, playing video games, hanging with friends, and playing with his sisters (ummm.... most of the time). He is even tempered, and easy going. He can be in the house all day, and you'd never know it. He is quiet, and a little shy, but will talk to you if you try. He is very active in our Youth Group, which I love. He is a peaceful presence in our home, and we love him so much! Happy Birthday, Bud!

This is one of my favorite pictures ever. It speaks volumes about Tate's loving nature. This is him and Little Bean when she was about 2 weeks old.

Tater's Life Verse:
The Lord will keep you from all harm-
he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forever more.
Psalm 121:7,8

All About Joby!

2008-05-25T21:19:00.005-04:00

This beauty is "Joby"

Joby blessed us with her presence on March 9, 1997. She weighed in at 8 lbs 13 ozs. We could not believe that we had a little girl! She was a wide eyed little beauty. It has been thrilling to watch her beauty on the outside be matched with her beauty on the inside.

Joby is our resident ice-skater extraordinaire! It has been a joy to watch her float across the ice. She is so at home out there. She just learned her first full revolution jump. It is a loop jump. She is also perfecting her sit spin. Joby is a go-getter who is involved with anything that comes her way. This year she was the Secretary for Student Council, on the newspaper, P.E. helper, County Chorus, regular chorus, Battle of The Books, did the morning announcements, was the guidance helper, and kept up straight A's. She is amazing at keeping all of her stuff together, and staying focused.
Joby girl is a perfectionist, that will try try again to learn something new. She loves gum, trying out new hairdos, watching you tube videos, Tropical Smoothies, painting her nails, back rubs, and organizing things. She is tender hearted, loyal, and fun. She is a talented, sweet girl who will do anything for you. She is our heart and our rock!

Joby's life verse:
I have chosen you and not cast you off,
fear not, for I am with you,
be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:9-10

Lou Lou

2008-05-22T09:37:00.000-04:00

The beautiful girl on the left is our Lou Lou (sorry, most our of pics have more than 1 person in them!)

We were blessed by Lou's arrival April 17th, 1998. She was 10 days overdue and weighed in at 10 lbs 2 ozs. Yes, that cute little thing was a 10 pound brutus.

Lou Lou is our gymnast. She is starting Level 7 now. She can do all kinds of flips and crazy things that make a Mommy's heart skip a few beats. Nothing can compare to watching your child TUMBLE ON A BEAM! I don't breathe for 1 minute 30 secs. That is how long her routine is. I do feel the need to report to you that Lou just finished her Level 6 season, and is the State Champion on Vault! She will not appreciate me telling you, but I knew you want to know! She had impressive showings on all events and ended up 4th place all-around, not bad at all!

Lou is a daredevil, thrill seeker (be still, my heart). She has the most tender heart you've ever run across. Her prayers for a full year after watching a Newscast on Ghana, is what has brought us to the point of adopting. She won't stop until we have 17 children. That has always been her goal. Lou loves Chik-fil-a (who doesn't), gum, cokes (my fault- I'm an addict), making babies and children laugh, having friends spend the night, jumping on the trampoline, and most of all, snuggling on the couch. She does not like lunch meat, discord, smiling with her teeth, or being alone. Lou was our baby for 7 years, and though she adores her younger sisters, she still believes that my lap is her 'spot'. I'm just fine with that!

Lou Lou is pleasant, hard working, and loving. She is a straight A student, and is well liked by everyone that comes in contact with her. We are very proud of her. She is our joy and peace.

Lou's life verse:
Rejoice in the Lord always.
I will say it again: Rejoice!
Let your gentleness be evident to all.
The Lord is near.
Do not be anxious about anything,
but in everything by prayer and petition,
with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4: 4-7

Goofy Girl

2008-05-21T21:10:00.000-04:00

This is our funny little Goofy Girl

Goofy came to us via the miracle of domestic infant adoption June 13, 2005. She was 7 weeks old. She weighed 5lbs 2 ozs when she was born. From the moment we first laid eyes on her, she has been absolutely perfect for us. She was the best baby, best sleeper, most agreeable thing we've seen.

Goofy is incredibly funny and witty for her age. She has a big personality, and even bigger heart. She loves to dance, loves to share, loves to take care of her little sister, loves to twirl, she has beautiful straight white teeth, and isn't any bigger than a minute. Goofy Girl has always been obedient and easy. She is never one to make a mess, and always asks before she does something that is iffy to her. You can't hardly wash her, she is so ticklish. She adores all things High School Musical, and is convinced that Troy is coming to Busch Gardens with us. When she is finding something for us, or putting away toys, she says that she is using her 'super powers'. She is a joy and a blessing. And, OH. SO. FUNNY!

Goofy Girl's Life Verse:
No eye has seen,
no ear has heard,
no mind has conceived
what God has prepared for those
who love him.
1 Cor. 2:9

Our "Little Bean"

2008-05-21T14:55:00.000-04:00

This is our beautiful Little Bean (name changed to protect the .... we'll say innocent)

Little Bean came to us at 3 days old, weighing in at 4 lbs 13 ozs on September 28, 2006. We were her foster parents through our city's Department of Social Services. We could hardly believe how tiny, beautiful and delicate she was. We loved her with our whole hearts, even though we knew that she may not be able to be ours forever. Every child deserves a family, every child deserves a mom and dad, every child deserves to be treasured, no matter for how brief a time. Through the grace of God, many tears, many moments of almost having to say good bye, many court dates, she finally became an official part of our family forever on December 14th, 2007.

Bean is a funny little girl. When she laughs she gets wrinkles in the middle of her nose. She wants to buckle her own seat belt, buckle, unbuckle, buckle... She loves to follow her older sister around everywhere. She despises being told no. She loves her blankie, and likes to chew on the corner. Whenever she eats candy, the drool just POURS from her mouth. She loves to take her diaper off in the bed. She loves to dance. She does not like to have her hair done, unfortunately, she has a lot of it. She loves cheese and turkey. She is a light, and a gift. We adore our Little Bean, and thank God for her, every day.

Little Beans's life verse:
The Lord your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17

This one's for all my AAIGhana buddies...

2008-05-21T13:46:00.000-04:00

Ok, ya'll. Don't expect this to be witty, life-changing, original or uplifting. What this will be is the sum total of our family archive, as I've failed miserably at scrapbooking, journaling, video taping, or in any other way documenting our lives. Thanks for stopping by, and enjoy the ride...