One of the joys of home educating is the freedom it gives the children to express an interest in a topic and explore it either in depth or at a leisurely pace.
Obviously, English as a Second Language has been the primary course of study for Me, L, and Ed. Ed has taken an interest in repeating phrases to practice her English speaking skills. Today's phrase (spoken slowly and deliberately with heavy accent, repeated dozens of times):
"She.. is.. peeking.. her.. nose."
Followed by lines from a Little House on the Prairie episode:
"Dat man loves me... And I am talking to de cat!"
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Saturday, December 6, 2008
St. Nick
While E is trying to get some decent photos of the fireplace hearth adorned with nine shoes filled with carrots, I thought I'd jot a quick note with our Sinterklaas Day greetings.
Our day was full of preparations for the Christmas tree, including the normal things like moving furniture and cleaning up the inch of dust from the window sills in the newly vacant spot.
It also included the unexpected ~ cleaning up dog puke from the living room carpet first thing in the morning and, due to the horrified feeling that we couldn't possibly get it clean enough, shampooing a large section of the 'did we miss a speck of it' carpet. The bonus surprise ~ dog poop in the shower! At least Pups was discreet.
Add in the "I brought this upon myself" chore of cooking an entire meal for 40 people. Cooking in advance, really... we're feeding the college students at church tomorrow. Two huge vats of soup and 12 loaves of homemade bread later, I ponder the strong possibility of bad weather = low turnout.
To fully picture all of this, you need to imagine the hum of nine children in the background. The hum occasionally flames into an uproar as drama develops - yet another bicker-fest, or pesky brother incident. Even in the "quiet" moments, the hum is punctuated by L's high activity, high volume voice or I and B's rough and tumble tackle play.
But finally, the tree is up! It's not your normal, run of the mill tree. Rather, it was cut by the men of the family - Berny, I, and B - from our friend's new farm. It won't be necessary to run the humidifier for the next couple of days, due to the 2+ inches of snow clinging to the tree's branches when it entered. Within a few minutes, we had rainfall under the tree. I'm sure the tree skirt (fancy name for the old tablecloth I hastily plopped on the floor) and carpet will eventually dry.
Berny is filling shoes with goodies now, so I think I'll go join him and scout out some odd count chocolates to eat.
Happy SinterKlaas Day!
Our day was full of preparations for the Christmas tree, including the normal things like moving furniture and cleaning up the inch of dust from the window sills in the newly vacant spot.
It also included the unexpected ~ cleaning up dog puke from the living room carpet first thing in the morning and, due to the horrified feeling that we couldn't possibly get it clean enough, shampooing a large section of the 'did we miss a speck of it' carpet. The bonus surprise ~ dog poop in the shower! At least Pups was discreet.
Add in the "I brought this upon myself" chore of cooking an entire meal for 40 people. Cooking in advance, really... we're feeding the college students at church tomorrow. Two huge vats of soup and 12 loaves of homemade bread later, I ponder the strong possibility of bad weather = low turnout.
To fully picture all of this, you need to imagine the hum of nine children in the background. The hum occasionally flames into an uproar as drama develops - yet another bicker-fest, or pesky brother incident. Even in the "quiet" moments, the hum is punctuated by L's high activity, high volume voice or I and B's rough and tumble tackle play.
But finally, the tree is up! It's not your normal, run of the mill tree. Rather, it was cut by the men of the family - Berny, I, and B - from our friend's new farm. It won't be necessary to run the humidifier for the next couple of days, due to the 2+ inches of snow clinging to the tree's branches when it entered. Within a few minutes, we had rainfall under the tree. I'm sure the tree skirt (fancy name for the old tablecloth I hastily plopped on the floor) and carpet will eventually dry.
Berny is filling shoes with goodies now, so I think I'll go join him and scout out some odd count chocolates to eat.
Happy SinterKlaas Day!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Puddy Tat
The next generation tormenting cats through application of fashion ~ same doll clothes we used when my brother and sisters and I were kids! It wouldn't surprise me at all to find out that my Aunt Judy did the same stuff the generation before me...
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Refill
I intend to post at least once per month... but let me explain how things have been working for me.
I start to feel overwhelmed ~ which makes me start to feel cranky ~ which moves on to being crabby ~ which causes me to feel guilty ~ which makes me more overwhelmed ~ which starts to slip toward being depressed ~ which shuts off my interest in communicating with the 'outside world' ~ which puts a strain on friendships and distances family ~ which leads to a feeling of isolation ~ which increases the stress ~ which makes me incredibly overwhelmed, and I run all out of 'nice'...
Until God finds me on my emotional edge, takes me by the hand, and leads me back to the realization that He called me for this purpose and provides everything I need to attend to it. He finds just what I need and refills me.
My God shall supply all my needs, according to His riches in glory.
Then my eyes are once again opened to the joys of parenting a big crew of great kids. Here's a story I posted to the adoption yahoo group today:
This reminds me of what I overheard from two of mine the other day. Ic (bio) and L(home 7ish months) are almost the same age (7/8), so we often refer to them as 'the twins.' They get along beautifully.
I overheard Ic saying to L, "Well, we're not actually twins, cuz.." and I tuned in more closely, expecting to hear a comment about race: brown/peach, country of origin... but he continues, "We're not actually twins, cuz you're much more bossy than me."
I stayed in the kitchen to snicker to myself.
I start to feel overwhelmed ~ which makes me start to feel cranky ~ which moves on to being crabby ~ which causes me to feel guilty ~ which makes me more overwhelmed ~ which starts to slip toward being depressed ~ which shuts off my interest in communicating with the 'outside world' ~ which puts a strain on friendships and distances family ~ which leads to a feeling of isolation ~ which increases the stress ~ which makes me incredibly overwhelmed, and I run all out of 'nice'...
Until God finds me on my emotional edge, takes me by the hand, and leads me back to the realization that He called me for this purpose and provides everything I need to attend to it. He finds just what I need and refills me.
My God shall supply all my needs, according to His riches in glory.
Then my eyes are once again opened to the joys of parenting a big crew of great kids. Here's a story I posted to the adoption yahoo group today:
This reminds me of what I overheard from two of mine the other day. Ic (bio) and L(home 7ish months) are almost the same age (7/8), so we often refer to them as 'the twins.' They get along beautifully.
I overheard Ic saying to L, "Well, we're not actually twins, cuz.." and I tuned in more closely, expecting to hear a comment about race: brown/peach, country of origin... but he continues, "We're not actually twins, cuz you're much more bossy than me."
I stayed in the kitchen to snicker to myself.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Loving L
Our September 10 birthday girl.
8 years old, and loving life!
What's an appropriate birthday meal for L? Why, hamburgers and chocolate cake of course!
(photo credit: E)
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Baby B!
I'm an "Uncle!" Baby B was born this morning in Colorado - Kurt and Kathy sound thrilled. I'm so happy, I keep crying! Both B and Mama are doing well.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Beam me outta here!
A stomach bug has attacked Slomp huis! 5 down.. how many more? We're starting to run seriously short of ice cream buckets.
Add in a sick pony outside, and this Mama is pretty busy!
Obviously, prayers would be appreciated.
Funny comment of the day: After accidentally slamming B's fingers in the kitchen door, L exclaimed, "It was an 'askident' Mom!"
Most confusing translation moment: M spouts in frustration, "Everyone pig me, Mom!" It took a bit of questioning and deciphering to figure out what she really meant to say... "Everyone is picking on me, Mom!"
Add in a sick pony outside, and this Mama is pretty busy!
Obviously, prayers would be appreciated.
Funny comment of the day: After accidentally slamming B's fingers in the kitchen door, L exclaimed, "It was an 'askident' Mom!"
Most confusing translation moment: M spouts in frustration, "Everyone pig me, Mom!" It took a bit of questioning and deciphering to figure out what she really meant to say... "Everyone is picking on me, Mom!"
Sunday, July 20, 2008
And another Eye Opening note:
http://nomorecountingthecost.blogspot.com/2008/06/cup-of-sorrow.html
Things which I should obsess about, rather than obsessing about finding a swimsuit to fit my chubby, American butt.
Things which I should obsess about, rather than obsessing about finding a swimsuit to fit my chubby, American butt.
Food Shortage
We are quite conerned about how this affects our family in Ethiopia - Me, Ed, and L's Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, and the girl's older brother. We love them dearly. I have included a link at the bottom of this post for those who are moved to help. We are hoping to find a way to help our family in particular. Once we can find a way to sponsor them... or at least the girl's brother, Getahun... we will need to raise the money to send in monthly.
Read on (written by a man in our agency's adoptive family forum):
"Since we are living and working in Ethiopia we can confirm that things are getting very tough. The government just released June '07-June '08 inflation figures with overall inflation at 55%, food inflation at 78%, and grain/cereals inflation at 132%. The short rains failed (those that come in February - May) which combined with raising world food prices has been the real culprit of the difficult times Ethiopia now faces. The short rains usually provide enough crops that get people through the "hungry season"generally May to August. This is when people are planting and are waitingfor the harvest from the longer rains. Unfortunately, due to the failure of the short rains, and the delay of the longer rains, most of the current harvests are about two months behind. Most families dependent on agriculture will not see a harvest until mid-to-late September at the earliest.
What I have heard in my travels and in meetings is that there is food in most markets, however the prices are so high that people cannot afford to purchase it. This is especially true for the small holder farmer and the very poor, who are most severely affected. The most deceiving part is that the fields are planted and the countryside looks green and beautiful, however these farmers (especially in the south where I recently traveled)will not receive their first crop (green maize) until at least Sept or Oct. This is why people are referring to this as a green famine - beautiful, plenty growing right now, but there is no access to food for a large number of people.
On the ration side - the government and donors are trying to meet food needs for the 4.6 million people at risk, but due to the inadequate food stocks in country for July, they have decided to reduce the normal ration of 15 KG perperson to 10KG per person. It's a tough decision, give some of the people in need a full ration and nothing to the rest, or spread the in-country foodstock among all who need it at a reduced ration. There is a lot of food coming into country in late/July and August and will be available to distribute quickly. All that said, the government is in the process of buying 150,000 tons of wheat to sell at a subsidized rate in 12 urban centers around the country to reduce the food inflation impacts on the urban poor who do not have land and are solely dependent on purchased food to survive. "
http://awop.org/ - African Widows and Orphans Project
http://adoptionadvocates.org/human/human_sponsor_project.php
http://adoptionadvocates.org/human/human_sponsor_ed.php
Read on (written by a man in our agency's adoptive family forum):
"Since we are living and working in Ethiopia we can confirm that things are getting very tough. The government just released June '07-June '08 inflation figures with overall inflation at 55%, food inflation at 78%, and grain/cereals inflation at 132%. The short rains failed (those that come in February - May) which combined with raising world food prices has been the real culprit of the difficult times Ethiopia now faces. The short rains usually provide enough crops that get people through the "hungry season"generally May to August. This is when people are planting and are waitingfor the harvest from the longer rains. Unfortunately, due to the failure of the short rains, and the delay of the longer rains, most of the current harvests are about two months behind. Most families dependent on agriculture will not see a harvest until mid-to-late September at the earliest.
What I have heard in my travels and in meetings is that there is food in most markets, however the prices are so high that people cannot afford to purchase it. This is especially true for the small holder farmer and the very poor, who are most severely affected. The most deceiving part is that the fields are planted and the countryside looks green and beautiful, however these farmers (especially in the south where I recently traveled)will not receive their first crop (green maize) until at least Sept or Oct. This is why people are referring to this as a green famine - beautiful, plenty growing right now, but there is no access to food for a large number of people.
On the ration side - the government and donors are trying to meet food needs for the 4.6 million people at risk, but due to the inadequate food stocks in country for July, they have decided to reduce the normal ration of 15 KG perperson to 10KG per person. It's a tough decision, give some of the people in need a full ration and nothing to the rest, or spread the in-country foodstock among all who need it at a reduced ration. There is a lot of food coming into country in late/July and August and will be available to distribute quickly. All that said, the government is in the process of buying 150,000 tons of wheat to sell at a subsidized rate in 12 urban centers around the country to reduce the food inflation impacts on the urban poor who do not have land and are solely dependent on purchased food to survive. "
http://awop.org/ - African Widows and Orphans Project
http://adoptionadvocates.org/human/human_sponsor_project.php
http://adoptionadvocates.org/human/human_sponsor_ed.php
Friday, July 18, 2008
Saturday, July 5, 2008
3+ Months Home
Time for a wordy update, copied from a note to our adoption forum/support group:
Our transition is 'almost' dreamy! It's going extremely well most of the time. We have some minor struggles here and there, but most have been only slightly more difficult than dealing with typical teen/preteen issues (and with 7 girls from 7-16, some of these issues are bound to surface!)... with a bit of extra emotion and grief attached.
I tell people that we do have tantrums in our house... but I just put myself in my room until I'm done with my fit. ;)
Our girls are affectionate, fun loving, kind (unless in the middle of sibling conflict... they can bicker with the best) - so many positives. Occasionally they are a little moody, and sometimes quite homesick. The 7 year old can be so active for attention, that she nearly sucks the air out of a room. The girls have been learning to trust us, and open up more each week. They have been giving us glimpses of their life and struggles in Ethiopia... some real eye openers. I am amazed by some of the things they've endured.
The other children have had some big adjustments too, but after 3 months things are already settling quite a bit. The big brew-ha-ha starts when the siblings run into the language stuff/misunderstandings ~ the US kids are just certain that the Eth kids are babbling on in Amharic to get away with saying rude things about them. The US kids then start speaking pig-latin, which ticks off the Eth kids. It can be quite something to behold, but it's pretty funny at the same time. It's now becoming a joke between them.
The kids have started singing together during our travels. Our van now sounds like a camp bus, with kids singing at top volume. The first-aid kit makes an effective drum.
I have to choose to look into the future, and picture all three girls doing well. When I start to feel overwhelmed at the prospect of catching up with their schooling, it can feel like there's an elephant on my dinner plate... A friend has encouraged me to take one thing at a time - only focus on eating the tail, instead of letting myself panic over devouring the whole elephant at once. :) So, we're plodding gently through some summer school, focusing on critical thinking skills, reading, and basic math.
Remembering the wait:
I remember longing for the pre-court-closure court date. We waited for quite some time (felt like an eternity), but our turn came and now the wait is a fairly distant memory. Our total process was only about 9-10 months... a decent gestation for our 'triplets.'
Our transition is 'almost' dreamy! It's going extremely well most of the time. We have some minor struggles here and there, but most have been only slightly more difficult than dealing with typical teen/preteen issues (and with 7 girls from 7-16, some of these issues are bound to surface!)... with a bit of extra emotion and grief attached.
I tell people that we do have tantrums in our house... but I just put myself in my room until I'm done with my fit. ;)
Our girls are affectionate, fun loving, kind (unless in the middle of sibling conflict... they can bicker with the best) - so many positives. Occasionally they are a little moody, and sometimes quite homesick. The 7 year old can be so active for attention, that she nearly sucks the air out of a room. The girls have been learning to trust us, and open up more each week. They have been giving us glimpses of their life and struggles in Ethiopia... some real eye openers. I am amazed by some of the things they've endured.
The other children have had some big adjustments too, but after 3 months things are already settling quite a bit. The big brew-ha-ha starts when the siblings run into the language stuff/misunderstandings ~ the US kids are just certain that the Eth kids are babbling on in Amharic to get away with saying rude things about them. The US kids then start speaking pig-latin, which ticks off the Eth kids. It can be quite something to behold, but it's pretty funny at the same time. It's now becoming a joke between them.
The kids have started singing together during our travels. Our van now sounds like a camp bus, with kids singing at top volume. The first-aid kit makes an effective drum.
I have to choose to look into the future, and picture all three girls doing well. When I start to feel overwhelmed at the prospect of catching up with their schooling, it can feel like there's an elephant on my dinner plate... A friend has encouraged me to take one thing at a time - only focus on eating the tail, instead of letting myself panic over devouring the whole elephant at once. :) So, we're plodding gently through some summer school, focusing on critical thinking skills, reading, and basic math.
Remembering the wait:
I remember longing for the pre-court-closure court date. We waited for quite some time (felt like an eternity), but our turn came and now the wait is a fairly distant memory. Our total process was only about 9-10 months... a decent gestation for our 'triplets.'
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Smile
The girls continue improving their English skills at an amazing rate!
Today's comment from L (she's looking at some drawings on our kitchen windows), in her raspy, Amharic accented voice:
"I know EVERYTHING! This is sun. This is cloud. This is frowel, frowel, FROWEL!"
Flower.
Today's comment from L (she's looking at some drawings on our kitchen windows), in her raspy, Amharic accented voice:
"I know EVERYTHING! This is sun. This is cloud. This is frowel, frowel, FROWEL!"
Flower.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Friday, June 6, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Names
Since the girls have been home for over eight weeks, it's time to make name decisions and apply for their Michigan birth certificates.
M has asked that her middle name be either "___" or "___," in honor of her Ethiopian Grandmother.
E came up with "Livinia" - the snotty girl from the movie, "The Little Princess." She then pretends to be like that charactor until her famous dimples show, and she breaks her act with giggles. A better option we're discussing is "Sarah," or a version of her Ethiopian Mom's name, "Adanu."
For L, my favorite is "L ___." L's two favorites reflect her favorite English words - "L Hamburger" and "L Chocolate Cake."
M has asked that her middle name be either "___" or "___," in honor of her Ethiopian Grandmother.
E came up with "Livinia" - the snotty girl from the movie, "The Little Princess." She then pretends to be like that charactor until her famous dimples show, and she breaks her act with giggles. A better option we're discussing is "Sarah," or a version of her Ethiopian Mom's name, "Adanu."
For L, my favorite is "L ___." L's two favorites reflect her favorite English words - "L Hamburger" and "L Chocolate Cake."
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Breaking the rules
** Photos deleted... but if you'd like to see them, I will happily send them to you privately (S. May 31)**
Well... I'm really breaking the rules here. I am totally NOT supposed to post photos of waiting kids from Layla. If you know me at all, you know that I actually have a very active conscience/guilt factor. I'm happy to follow even the obscure rules ~ things like: turning into the proper lane in traffic, putting the grocery cart in the rack thingy before leaving the parking lot, not sampling produce before purchase, etc.
Well... I'm really breaking the rules here. I am totally NOT supposed to post photos of waiting kids from Layla. If you know me at all, you know that I actually have a very active conscience/guilt factor. I'm happy to follow even the obscure rules ~ things like: turning into the proper lane in traffic, putting the grocery cart in the rack thingy before leaving the parking lot, not sampling produce before purchase, etc.
However, someone needs to know that these kids are waiting, and have been waiting for quite some time. These are delightful kids who need a mom and a dad, need a brother or a sister, need grandparents, uncles and aunts, church family... need someone to help them establish a life and heal. The majority of them were breast fed babies, well loved toddlers, cherished children ~ their parents didn't abuse them or disown them. They died.
So, for them, I break the law... at least temporarily. I balance the injustice of their situations with the rules. In a few days I'll get back online and delete these photos. In a few days will someone recognize God's call to these kids? Or will they wait another month, six months, year, 3 years?
For each child waiting at Layla, there are dozens more on the street or in villages who are waiting to take their place...
If God is calling you, please don't turn a deaf ear.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Clouds
I get two kids and a husband back late tonight! They've been in Canada to celebrate Opa and Oma's 50th. It's been a very busy weekend for me, but hopefully a great weekend for them!
On Thursday I got a very fun phone call from them during their short layover in Denver.
Ic: "Guess where WE are, Mom! [giggle, giggle]"
Me: "Well HI, Ike! Are you in Denver?!?"
Ic: "Nope!"
Me: [thinking... did they get re-routed or hung up somewhere?] "Where are you?"
Ic: [in a very animated voice] "We're in COLORADO!"
Me: "Oh, cool! So you're not in Denver then?"
Ic: "Nope!"
:)
More quotes regarding his first trip in an airplane:
"I loved going down! We went THROUGH clouds! Right THROUGH the clouds! It was SO COOL, Mom!! ... (giggle, giggle)" and, "I didn't even puke! ..Cuz it was just too much fun!" I wish there had been some way to record it.
I can hardly wait to get M here so that I can get her impressions. The Denver call was ended before I got to hear from her. I'm wondering if she'll gush as much as Ic did or if, at 10, she's 'far too mature' for such things. Either way, her hugs are worth a million and I intend to be a hug billionaire by Monday evening.
On Thursday I got a very fun phone call from them during their short layover in Denver.
Ic: "Guess where WE are, Mom! [giggle, giggle]"
Me: "Well HI, Ike! Are you in Denver?!?"
Ic: "Nope!"
Me: [thinking... did they get re-routed or hung up somewhere?] "Where are you?"
Ic: [in a very animated voice] "We're in COLORADO!"
Me: "Oh, cool! So you're not in Denver then?"
Ic: "Nope!"
:)
More quotes regarding his first trip in an airplane:
"I loved going down! We went THROUGH clouds! Right THROUGH the clouds! It was SO COOL, Mom!! ... (giggle, giggle)" and, "I didn't even puke! ..Cuz it was just too much fun!" I wish there had been some way to record it.
I can hardly wait to get M here so that I can get her impressions. The Denver call was ended before I got to hear from her. I'm wondering if she'll gush as much as Ic did or if, at 10, she's 'far too mature' for such things. Either way, her hugs are worth a million and I intend to be a hug billionaire by Monday evening.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Monday, May 12, 2008
Needed Laughter
You think you're having a bad day?
http://welovebigfamilies.blogspot.com/2008/05/from-good-to-bad-to-worse.html
http://welovebigfamilies.blogspot.com/2008/05/from-good-to-bad-to-worse.html
Ethiopian Feast
Thanks to a lovely family who must have spent their entire day cooking, we had a big Ethiopian feast to celebrate 3 weeks home (April 12). It was our loudest meal yet ~ everyone was in a great mood, and it was a big party!
Thanks, Adsmonds!
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Bilingual
Suppose you have 3 new sisters who speak a language foreign to you. As they jabber on in Amharic, you and your siblings are quite certain that they are saying rude things about each of you.
Try this:
Eak-spay ig-pay atin-lay. It-ay ill-way eally-ray et-gay eir-thay oats-gay!
Unfortunately, it has been proven that a group of children painting rocks at a picnic table only escalate the conflict over foreign language when using this method.
Sheeesh.
Try this:
Eak-spay ig-pay atin-lay. It-ay ill-way eally-ray et-gay eir-thay oats-gay!
Unfortunately, it has been proven that a group of children painting rocks at a picnic table only escalate the conflict over foreign language when using this method.
Sheeesh.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Written for me
I just posted about this same site a while back, but I'm quite amazed as I read it. She's writing almost exactly what I've been thinking... including many similar experiences in Ethiopia. She was there with a mission trip group just one week after we left, and her group was brought by AAI staff to many of the same places. Bern and I had been their guinea pigs the week before...
Enjoy reading. it will give you a great picture of our trip... You know, the one I just can't make myself write as I wander through this post-adoption fog.
http://willinghearts.blogspot.com
Enjoy reading. it will give you a great picture of our trip... You know, the one I just can't make myself write as I wander through this post-adoption fog.
http://willinghearts.blogspot.com
"Great" Day ~ April 14
On the 14th of April, Mo, Ed, L, Ic, and I made the trek to a town South of us to have the girls meet their 'new' Great Grandmother. Grandma was in the hospital then, and had a very uphill battle to get healthy enough to return to her apartment. I think we all knew that her time on earth was drawing to a close.
We arrived at the hospital armed with a little handful of pussy-willows, one of Grandma's favorites. Grandma was sitting in a chair, with a twinkle in her eye and big smile on her face. She seemed quite delighted to meet the girls, and they were excited to meet her... though they stayed reserved and nervous. It was a sweet time.
When we left the hospital, the girls were full of questions... especially, "Where is Great-Grandma's home?" They begged to see it. Instead of bringing them to an apartment building, we headed over to the home-place... the farm. That is really the place she would call home.
Once there, we found Uncle Allen working in his shop. He accepted the interruption with a big grin and warm greetings. After some chatting time we headed over to the famous tire swing, where he gave each kid a ride. Well... at least L, Ic, and Ed had rides at thrilling heights. Mo was terrified to even touch the swing. We eventually coaxed her into sitting in it briefly to give us her super model smile for a photo. She did seem to want to swing, but her insecurity won out. Uncle Allen was great with them all, and they left thinking he was a pretty cool guy - I would agree.
We arrived at the hospital armed with a little handful of pussy-willows, one of Grandma's favorites. Grandma was sitting in a chair, with a twinkle in her eye and big smile on her face. She seemed quite delighted to meet the girls, and they were excited to meet her... though they stayed reserved and nervous. It was a sweet time.
When we left the hospital, the girls were full of questions... especially, "Where is Great-Grandma's home?" They begged to see it. Instead of bringing them to an apartment building, we headed over to the home-place... the farm. That is really the place she would call home.
Once there, we found Uncle Allen working in his shop. He accepted the interruption with a big grin and warm greetings. After some chatting time we headed over to the famous tire swing, where he gave each kid a ride. Well... at least L, Ic, and Ed had rides at thrilling heights. Mo was terrified to even touch the swing. We eventually coaxed her into sitting in it briefly to give us her super model smile for a photo. She did seem to want to swing, but her insecurity won out. Uncle Allen was great with them all, and they left thinking he was a pretty cool guy - I would agree.
We loaded back into the van and headed West, just down the block to Uncle Larry's house. As we drove by his land, we could see Uncle Larry's truck back in the field but decided to check at the house anyway. Aunt Karen was quite surprised to find us at her door, and a few minutes later Uncle Larry drove into the yard. We all wandered to the back yard to see the critters and sights. While Uncle Larry and I were chatting, the girls, Ic, and Aunt Karen disappeared into a little building to look at her rabbits. I went to find them back, and felt transported back in time as I stepped into Aunt Karen's rabbit building - a whole childhood of fascinating memories flooded back, complete with the smell of rabbits!
Then, while Aunt Karen and I were chatting, the girls, Ic, and Uncle Larry disappeared. A few moments later they zoomed back into view, all aboard Uncle Larry's golf cart. Seeing them all piled on and laughing was not a big surprise - seeing Ed DRIVING was a definite surprise! Each child got a turn driving this foreign contraption, with Uncle Larry chuckling the whole time. Despite the fact that he was sitting right with them controlling the gas petal and his hand ready to grab the steering wheel, the trees and barn more than once took the brunt of their driving!
We eventually extracted the girls from the golf cart, gave our farewells, and loaded into the van for the drive home.
I can't even describe the feelings I had watching my new children connect with such a deep part of my childhood. Some of the dearest people in my world welcomed them lovingly, just as they had loved me through my childhood.
We eventually extracted the girls from the golf cart, gave our farewells, and loaded into the van for the drive home.
I can't even describe the feelings I had watching my new children connect with such a deep part of my childhood. Some of the dearest people in my world welcomed them lovingly, just as they had loved me through my childhood.
Less than a week later I talked to Grandma on the phone for the last time. I told her that I loved her and said my good-byes. She told me she loved me, and said that it had been so good to meet the girls. The next day she was no longer able to speak, and the day after that she left for heaven. We gathered together for Grandma's funeral the following Sunday afternoon, where the girls got to meet more family and see the Great Uncles and Aunts again.
I treasure the sight of my Grandmother, my hero, so proud to meet her new great-grandchildren... And my Uncles and Aunt, who gave the girls such a memorable day. What fun to watch my kids enjoy the Greats.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Willing Hearts
http://willinghearts.blogspot.com/2008/04/kids.html
A good read about some of the children who still wait at Layla ... the children we met, and now love.
The only inaccuracy I found: "There is a vow that all children will find a family within 2 years, and so far, no child has waited longer."
Our girls waited for almost 3 years, and their friends -also a group of three beautiful sisters - have waited even longer and still wait. The 'vow' to have children in families within 2 years only works if the families God is calling actually step forward in obedience.
A good read about some of the children who still wait at Layla ... the children we met, and now love.
The only inaccuracy I found: "There is a vow that all children will find a family within 2 years, and so far, no child has waited longer."
Our girls waited for almost 3 years, and their friends -also a group of three beautiful sisters - have waited even longer and still wait. The 'vow' to have children in families within 2 years only works if the families God is calling actually step forward in obedience.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Yummy
A quote from 7 yo L as I tucked her in at night and was lavishing her with kisses:
"Me chocolate, You cake!"
She then joined me in chin nibbling, and we just ate each other right up. Nothing more fun than a 7 year old!
I don't have a family
A reason to weep... A reason to act
Now I know some of the 'have nots' personally. If you'd like to hear about them, give me a call! But, beware - I'm on a mission to help them become 'I haves!'
Friday, April 11, 2008
What day is it, anyway?
So I am finally sitting down to write. The house is quiet, other than the 3 parakeets and 2 cockatiels here in 'foster care.' They seem to know that I've grown accustomed to a certain amount of noise, so they are providing background chatter during this calm time.
I realized a little while ago that I've had a bit of a writer's block. It seems that staring at a blank wall is about all I feel that I can manage when I actually have the time to write! So I've determined that I need to start carrying around a little notebook or something to jot down my thoughts through the day. I really do come up with some great stuff! ~ Unfortunately, it's usually at 4am, when I am wedged between L and Ic in bed. Each has found a new habit of intruding on my sleep and bedspace in the wee-morning hours. But I really can't blame them for waking me... B has usually taken care of that by yelling my name from his bed, summoning me to come and pull up his covers and give him a kiss.
In reality, my attempt to carry a notebook would be abandoned within about 1/2 an hour from my waking... or, my 'official' waking, anyway. I won't include the multiple wakings from various children through the night.
I'm sure that the notebook would be in the way of some daily function ~ say, cooking breakfast for 10 hungry people, heading off the next potential bout of sibling rivalry, or officiating the after lunch kitchen chores. How, exactly, would I keep track of a small notebook among the dozens of school books and requests for my attention?
Speaking of cooking: Some adoptive families have 'food issues' with their newly home children. The only issue we have faced thus far is having enough food on hand. The 3 girls eat like 3 grown men! We keep a shaker of Berbere spice on the table, and they sprinkle it (which is an understatement) on almost all foods. I would not be at all surprised to see one of them chowing down a peanut butter/jelly/berbere sandwich! If you're not familiar with berbere, it is a lively mix of red spice - quite yummy, but not for the faint of heart/weak of tummy.
There ~ now do you see my point? I'm not even carrying the notebook, and already it is lost in a rabbit trail about cooking and Ethiopian spices! I remember losing my mind before - 5 times before, actually. Then I blamed it on post-birth hormones... 'oxy-something-or-other.' Now I have no credible culprit... I'm just low on sleep, and getting flakier by the day.
For those who would like to get past my flakey ramblings, and get some true information:
Our adjustment is going quite well, despite me. ;) Every day gets easier as the girls learn the routine, and siblings learn which 'buttons' cause which reactions. The girls are learning that they have the bummer of getting stuck with parents who really do make them do... But I think they're enjoying the laughter here too.
I was shocked to find out that they (esp. Mo) wanted to begin school work immediately. After some initial panic, we've found appropriate school books and have begun the education effort. Mo is pleased, but can't wait to move on to the 'harder' books. She would like to fast forward the English acquisition, and get on with life in America. We get her gorgeous smiles multiple times a day, but especially when we give her permission to phone her friends in other states. When we look through photos of the kids from Layla, she remembers in which State each child lives with their new family.
Ed was the first of the three to master riding a bike. As of yesterday, she is tooling down and around the driveway without foot dragging and running into bushes. Thanks, Ic, for teaching her about brakes! She is showing enthusiasm for the dogs and other animals. She faithfully brushes one of the white, fluffy dogs, and I often see her carrying it like a baby. She thinks the horses are pretty cool, though she prefers to ride one of the greenbroke minis instead of the intimidating, but fully trained, big horses. She shows very little fear, and jumps into life with gusto.
L is all about affection and fun. She was helping me in the kitchen the other day, opening cans of fruit for supper. She paused her constant chatter to say, "I love kitchen best." I thought, "Oh, how very sweet! She loves working in the kitchen with her mom..." She then caught her self, and corrected her English... "I mean CHICKEN. I like chicken best." hmm. That would explain why she gets so excited about 'Kitchen and Noodles.' Her second week here, L was cradling an uncomfortable looking cat in her arms: "I have a killy, killy cat!" and, swinging the cat back and forth, she sang: "Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily.." The 'killy, killy cat' did not look very merry.
Tomorrow is our first post-adoption visit with our social worker. I suppose I should get some sleep so that I can panic clean in the morning!
Thanks for your prayers!
I realized a little while ago that I've had a bit of a writer's block. It seems that staring at a blank wall is about all I feel that I can manage when I actually have the time to write! So I've determined that I need to start carrying around a little notebook or something to jot down my thoughts through the day. I really do come up with some great stuff! ~ Unfortunately, it's usually at 4am, when I am wedged between L and Ic in bed. Each has found a new habit of intruding on my sleep and bedspace in the wee-morning hours. But I really can't blame them for waking me... B has usually taken care of that by yelling my name from his bed, summoning me to come and pull up his covers and give him a kiss.
In reality, my attempt to carry a notebook would be abandoned within about 1/2 an hour from my waking... or, my 'official' waking, anyway. I won't include the multiple wakings from various children through the night.
I'm sure that the notebook would be in the way of some daily function ~ say, cooking breakfast for 10 hungry people, heading off the next potential bout of sibling rivalry, or officiating the after lunch kitchen chores. How, exactly, would I keep track of a small notebook among the dozens of school books and requests for my attention?
Speaking of cooking: Some adoptive families have 'food issues' with their newly home children. The only issue we have faced thus far is having enough food on hand. The 3 girls eat like 3 grown men! We keep a shaker of Berbere spice on the table, and they sprinkle it (which is an understatement) on almost all foods. I would not be at all surprised to see one of them chowing down a peanut butter/jelly/berbere sandwich! If you're not familiar with berbere, it is a lively mix of red spice - quite yummy, but not for the faint of heart/weak of tummy.
There ~ now do you see my point? I'm not even carrying the notebook, and already it is lost in a rabbit trail about cooking and Ethiopian spices! I remember losing my mind before - 5 times before, actually. Then I blamed it on post-birth hormones... 'oxy-something-or-other.' Now I have no credible culprit... I'm just low on sleep, and getting flakier by the day.
For those who would like to get past my flakey ramblings, and get some true information:
Our adjustment is going quite well, despite me. ;) Every day gets easier as the girls learn the routine, and siblings learn which 'buttons' cause which reactions. The girls are learning that they have the bummer of getting stuck with parents who really do make them do... But I think they're enjoying the laughter here too.
I was shocked to find out that they (esp. Mo) wanted to begin school work immediately. After some initial panic, we've found appropriate school books and have begun the education effort. Mo is pleased, but can't wait to move on to the 'harder' books. She would like to fast forward the English acquisition, and get on with life in America. We get her gorgeous smiles multiple times a day, but especially when we give her permission to phone her friends in other states. When we look through photos of the kids from Layla, she remembers in which State each child lives with their new family.
Ed was the first of the three to master riding a bike. As of yesterday, she is tooling down and around the driveway without foot dragging and running into bushes. Thanks, Ic, for teaching her about brakes! She is showing enthusiasm for the dogs and other animals. She faithfully brushes one of the white, fluffy dogs, and I often see her carrying it like a baby. She thinks the horses are pretty cool, though she prefers to ride one of the greenbroke minis instead of the intimidating, but fully trained, big horses. She shows very little fear, and jumps into life with gusto.
L is all about affection and fun. She was helping me in the kitchen the other day, opening cans of fruit for supper. She paused her constant chatter to say, "I love kitchen best." I thought, "Oh, how very sweet! She loves working in the kitchen with her mom..." She then caught her self, and corrected her English... "I mean CHICKEN. I like chicken best." hmm. That would explain why she gets so excited about 'Kitchen and Noodles.' Her second week here, L was cradling an uncomfortable looking cat in her arms: "I have a killy, killy cat!" and, swinging the cat back and forth, she sang: "Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily.." The 'killy, killy cat' did not look very merry.
Tomorrow is our first post-adoption visit with our social worker. I suppose I should get some sleep so that I can panic clean in the morning!
Thanks for your prayers!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Airport Photo
Berny and I had the same reaction when seeing this photo: "Wow! That's a lot of people!"Friday, March 28, 2008
One week home
So much I could write, but both my time and energy are low! I really need to write about our time in Addis ~ unforgetable!
The girls are now officially 'Slompies' ~ they've all ridden horses. Mo has even experienced falling off!
All is well... All is busy.
The girls are now officially 'Slompies' ~ they've all ridden horses. Mo has even experienced falling off!
All is well... All is busy.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
First few days...
Yes - we are surviving! It's a hopping place, and we're looking forward to the day when things settle a bit. But overall, we're doing quite well.
We said our tearful good-byes to Uncle Clarence and Aunt Judy this noon, so now we're on our own.
I'll try to dig out a photo or two to post later. For now, lunch prep time!
We said our tearful good-byes to Uncle Clarence and Aunt Judy this noon, so now we're on our own.
I'll try to dig out a photo or two to post later. For now, lunch prep time!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Help has arrived!
Uncle Clarence and Aunt Judy just arrived from Alberta. The missed their flight from Calgary to Minneapolis by 8 minutes. They ended up flying to Dallas, TX and had to spend the night there.
We are so happy that they made it and can't wait to spend the week with them!
We are so happy that they made it and can't wait to spend the week with them!
Pictures!!!! (Posted by Grace)
(Here is what the missionary that took the pictures wrote:
Dear Pat, Erv, Slomp kids, and whomever else this can be sent to,
I'm writing first to tell you that Berny and Sherri arrived safely this morning in Addis. As well, what you've all been waiting for, they were able to meet and bring back the girls. I must say it was one of the very most joyful moments I've ever watched. I looked over at the director and said, "And you watch this happen all the time." Her response was, "Yes, but it's not usually so emotional. Since the girls are older they have a better understanding of what may not have been." It was really overwhelming.
Hope you can see the photos. One photo is of the actual meeting moment at the orphanage. It started with Mo running into Berny's arms and then the other two coming from other places in the orphanage and all crying at the happiness of it all. I'm not sure in which order you'll get them, the next photo should be of them all walking from the orphanage to the guesthouse where they are staying (oh, surprise this morning, they did get to stay where Berny stayed before, very good). The next should be Ed in the blanket Pat made, not willing to let go of it :). The last photo then should be all five on the bed around the photo books talking about the other six who aren't here (they ALL can't wait it seems to just be ALL together!! :)).
Blessings to all of you. What fun.
-mindy
I'm writing first to tell you that Berny and Sherri arrived safely this morning in Addis. As well, what you've all been waiting for, they were able to meet and bring back the girls. I must say it was one of the very most joyful moments I've ever watched. I looked over at the director and said, "And you watch this happen all the time." Her response was, "Yes, but it's not usually so emotional. Since the girls are older they have a better understanding of what may not have been." It was really overwhelming.
Hope you can see the photos. One photo is of the actual meeting moment at the orphanage. It started with Mo running into Berny's arms and then the other two coming from other places in the orphanage and all crying at the happiness of it all. I'm not sure in which order you'll get them, the next photo should be of them all walking from the orphanage to the guesthouse where they are staying (oh, surprise this morning, they did get to stay where Berny stayed before, very good). The next should be Ed in the blanket Pat made, not willing to let go of it :). The last photo then should be all five on the bed around the photo books talking about the other six who aren't here (they ALL can't wait it seems to just be ALL together!! :)).
Blessings to all of you. What fun.
-mindy
Ed with the blanket that Grandma Naber made.
Yep, we cried. :)
Friday, March 14, 2008
And They're Off
I just got off the phone with mom and dad. Their flight from Washington Dulles was delayed an hour and a half. They leave at about 11:30.
They stop in Rome for a fuel re-fill, and then off to Addis Ababa. They arrive in Addis tomorrow morning, at 8:30 or so Ethiopian time. Please continue to pray for their saftey.
They stop in Rome for a fuel re-fill, and then off to Addis Ababa. They arrive in Addis tomorrow morning, at 8:30 or so Ethiopian time. Please continue to pray for their saftey.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Here we go!
By the time you are enjoying your Saturday morning tea time, we should have the girls in our arms!
Sunday, March 9, 2008
What's in a name?
Mo = "A Gift from God"
Ed = "She's Lucky"
L = "Birthday"
These are the name meanings we've been able to find. To me, their names all mean "Beautiful and loved."
Ed = "She's Lucky"
L = "Birthday"
These are the name meanings we've been able to find. To me, their names all mean "Beautiful and loved."
Monday, March 3, 2008
...missing Ed
These photos were taken by another family when they went to bring home their new son. I sobbed as I saw the photos of them hugging and crying over him as they met.Soon that will be us, meeting our girls.
Not sure where Ed was on the day these photos were taken... perhaps playing in a different area?
Please say an extra prayer for the girls today.
Grandma "posts"
I haven't actually asked my Mom if I may just copy her words into this post, but she's written the news well ..so...
Here’s the latest on the plans to bring our grandchildren home from Ethiopia:
We were quite disappointed to learn that Sherri and Berny would be traveling to Ethiopia the exact same dates as our mission trip to Boothville, LA. This meant that we would not be able to help them by taking care of B, Ic, M, A, Eand G while their parents traveled to Ethiopia. Although Sherri tried to change the dates, it wouldn’t work out. So they began to think about who could step in and take care of the farm and their other six children while they go to get Mo, Ed and L. I just kept thinking about the words that Sherri has said over and over to me during the whole adoption process. Each time I said, “But Sherri, what about……….?” She would reply to me, “Mom, God knows what we need; He will take care of it.” And He DID!!! God has supplied ALL of their needs during these past several months – including money, a 12 passenger van, beds, dressers, clothing, school desks, bedding, etc, etc, etc!!!
Now, once again we see God’s wonderful plan! Berny’s brother and sister-in-law, Clarence and Judy Slomp, are flying to Michigan from Alberta, Canada to step in and be “house parents” for the week that Berny and Sherri are in Ethiopia. Isn’t that just a wonderful and amazing answer to our prayers?!! I can’t tell you how thrilled we are to see this wonderful answer to our prayers!!
Thank you for praying with us for God to work out all the details for this adoption. Our hearts are thrilled with PRAISE AND THANKS!!
Giving thanks & praise to God,
Erv & Pat
Please continue to pray for Berny & Sherri as they journey to Ethiopia – and also for their children here and in Ethiopia. Especially pray for Mo, Ed and L as they make the huge adjustment of leaving the orphanage and all that is familiar to them and join a family in MI whom they do not know.
Here’s the latest on the plans to bring our grandchildren home from Ethiopia:
We were quite disappointed to learn that Sherri and Berny would be traveling to Ethiopia the exact same dates as our mission trip to Boothville, LA. This meant that we would not be able to help them by taking care of B, Ic, M, A, Eand G while their parents traveled to Ethiopia. Although Sherri tried to change the dates, it wouldn’t work out. So they began to think about who could step in and take care of the farm and their other six children while they go to get Mo, Ed and L. I just kept thinking about the words that Sherri has said over and over to me during the whole adoption process. Each time I said, “But Sherri, what about……….?” She would reply to me, “Mom, God knows what we need; He will take care of it.” And He DID!!! God has supplied ALL of their needs during these past several months – including money, a 12 passenger van, beds, dressers, clothing, school desks, bedding, etc, etc, etc!!!
Now, once again we see God’s wonderful plan! Berny’s brother and sister-in-law, Clarence and Judy Slomp, are flying to Michigan from Alberta, Canada to step in and be “house parents” for the week that Berny and Sherri are in Ethiopia. Isn’t that just a wonderful and amazing answer to our prayers?!! I can’t tell you how thrilled we are to see this wonderful answer to our prayers!!
Thank you for praying with us for God to work out all the details for this adoption. Our hearts are thrilled with PRAISE AND THANKS!!
Giving thanks & praise to God,
Erv & Pat
Please continue to pray for Berny & Sherri as they journey to Ethiopia – and also for their children here and in Ethiopia. Especially pray for Mo, Ed and L as they make the huge adjustment of leaving the orphanage and all that is familiar to them and join a family in MI whom they do not know.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
The Countdown begins!
"We're leavin', on a jet plane.. "
Tickets are BOOKED! Here we go! Details:
Leaving from Detroit at the ridiculous hour of 6 AM on March 14
Arriving in Addis at 8:35 AM (their time), March 15
Insert ~ lots of tears, nerves, meeting and hugging girls, more tears, laughter, more hugging, Embassy appointment, trip to Mukatore, meeting the girl's living relatives, more tears, more laughter, lots of playing with Layla kids, walks and games with our girls, picture taking, more laughter, hugging friends (that's YOU, Mindy!), farewell party, more tears, etc. ~
Leaving from Addis 10:15 pm (their time again), March 21
Arriving in Grand Rapids at the respectable hour of 6:32 pm, March 22
WHEW! Just in time for Easter!
Tickets are BOOKED! Here we go! Details:
Leaving from Detroit at the ridiculous hour of 6 AM on March 14
Arriving in Addis at 8:35 AM (their time), March 15
Insert ~ lots of tears, nerves, meeting and hugging girls, more tears, laughter, more hugging, Embassy appointment, trip to Mukatore, meeting the girl's living relatives, more tears, more laughter, lots of playing with Layla kids, walks and games with our girls, picture taking, more laughter, hugging friends (that's YOU, Mindy!), farewell party, more tears, etc. ~
Leaving from Addis 10:15 pm (their time again), March 21
Arriving in Grand Rapids at the respectable hour of 6:32 pm, March 22
WHEW! Just in time for Easter!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Travel Date..?
Great news! We got word yesterday that an Embassy Date of March 19 could work well if it will work for our family.
The trick is: We have been planning to have my parents come and take care of the kids and farm while we're gone to Ethiopia. Unfortunately, they leave for a Mission trip down South on the 14th, and won't be back until the 22nd! "Bummer" to have parents who are in love with Jesus and passionate about service and missions! ;) What a great problem to have!
So, unless Clarence and Judy are interested in another trip to the South to take on the task of 6 kids and a farm :), we'll be looking into having friends come in shifts during that week. If things don't line up well, we may have to postpone the trip for a week so that Mom and Dad are back and available.
Either way, we're thrilled that there is a date in sight and the girls will be home soon!
The trick is: We have been planning to have my parents come and take care of the kids and farm while we're gone to Ethiopia. Unfortunately, they leave for a Mission trip down South on the 14th, and won't be back until the 22nd! "Bummer" to have parents who are in love with Jesus and passionate about service and missions! ;) What a great problem to have!
So, unless Clarence and Judy are interested in another trip to the South to take on the task of 6 kids and a farm :), we'll be looking into having friends come in shifts during that week. If things don't line up well, we may have to postpone the trip for a week so that Mom and Dad are back and available.
Either way, we're thrilled that there is a date in sight and the girls will be home soon!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Christmas DVD
We received a package from the agency yesterday, containing a dvd of the Christmas celebrations at Layla. We caught glimpses of Mo and Ed in the Christmas story drama, a long look at Ed doing the most remarkable acrobats/gymnastics we've ever seen, and L looking adorable as she got her present from 'Santa.'
Photos: Ed is in the bright pink, long sleeve. L was shy and sweet with Santa. We couldn't find any photos of Mo.
If you'd like to see the DVD, come on over!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Reunion
Mo & Y at Layla
Soon Mo will be home, and be reunited with her good friend, Y. It is even possible that Y will be living in our area! Her family is hoping to move from the Detroit area to our neck of the woods!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Champions
Warning: Parental Bragging AheadM had quite a weekend! She spent the weekend at the Ranch for a retreat with her Sunday School class, but took a break from the retreat Saturday morning to compete in the Awana Quiz Bowl with her friend, H. M returned to the retreat in the early afternoon, relishing her and H's First Place win!
M is a memorizing machine. Every week for Sunday School she recites a stack of verses (memorized from little cards given out by her teachers). Then every Wednesday night she recites memory verses and Q/A from her Awana book.
We could say that we homeschool M... but, in fact, we just try to stay out of her way! For years she has blasted through her school books. I used to tease her because I had to order books for her too often... 'the budget just wasn't going to keep up with her!' She tends to set her mind to a task and get it done, learning so quickly. She reads voraciously, and is often found re-reading books... you know, cuz she's read them ALL already. She's an amazing girl.
So the next time you see her ~ hopefully after her retreat depleted sleep tank is refilled ~ congratulate her on a job well done at the quizbowl!
While I'm at it:A had a busy weekend as well. She and a group of women and girls from church danced during service to the song, "Borrow Mine." It was a beautiful dance. I had tears in my eyes.
A has a passion for ballet, and her athletic ability and strength make her a natural. In fact, we've found very little in which A does not excel athletically! She's a 'go-getter,' and loves to compete. Watching her in the Awana games each spring (competion between all area Awana groups, featuring races and other events) is a thrill... I lose my voice every time!
She does just as well on her pony's four feet as she does on her own two. She and her pony move like a team... Anna's hind end appears glued down as her pony spins and runs at top speed... all without a saddle. Full speed is how A prefers life.
The cool thing is that, even with a competitive personality, A is sensitive, concerned, and compassionate. She feels deeply the hurts of others and has a servant heart. She is growing deep in faith ... what a remarkable young lady.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Nesting
The "Dormitory" is taking shape. Today we were able to find a cabinet on sale ~ we'll be using upright storage cabinets as dressers in the girl's room to conserve floor space. I think we now have all of the bedding we will need. Much of the bedding was given to us. For the rest, it's nice to be shopping during clearance season!
All seven girls will be starting out in the same bedroom (the dorm). The room is large, but it is our hope to be able to finish some projects here which would allow for more bedrooms this spring.
We've also been sorting clothing and getting things ready. I did the first load of laundry for Mo and Ed today! Beginning Mom tasks. Looks like the main things we're missing yet are things like pjs, jeans, and church clothes. We have not even begun shoe shopping yet, because we don't have their sizes.
It feels so great to be preparing for their arrival home!
All seven girls will be starting out in the same bedroom (the dorm). The room is large, but it is our hope to be able to finish some projects here which would allow for more bedrooms this spring.
We've also been sorting clothing and getting things ready. I did the first load of laundry for Mo and Ed today! Beginning Mom tasks. Looks like the main things we're missing yet are things like pjs, jeans, and church clothes. We have not even begun shoe shopping yet, because we don't have their sizes.
It feels so great to be preparing for their arrival home!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Socks and Underwear
Still waiting to hear that the precious piece of paper has made it safely to our agency. We're 'nesting:' gathering bedding, sorting clothing... I even bought socks the other day! Sock and underwear shopping ~ that's when you KNOW you're getting close! :)
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Birthday Girl
Ed doesn't know this yet... but it's her birthday TODAY!
We were contacted by the agency and told that they were in the process of putting together the paperwork for the girl's Ethiopian birth certificates. Since their dates of birth are unknown, the agency assigned them birthdays when they came into care over 3 years ago. The agency is trying something new, allowing adoptive parents to have some say in establishing birth dates for their legal paperwork.
In trying to decide their birthdays, we took into account the girl's estimated ages, school placement, and the birth dates of the kids already home. We considered meaningful dates, and decided upon these three:
Mo: June __ ~ the anniversary date of my Uncle Bob and late Aunt Judy's wedding. Uncle Bob and Aunt Judy (Sherri's 'other parents') celebrated their anniversary on the __th of every month... but were actually married on June _. Mo is E's 'twin' 13 year old, both with June birthdays.
Ed: February _ ~ Oma's birthday. Oma (Berny's Mom) is a wonderful lady - strong, gentle, patient, active, and lovely. Ed and A will be 'twins' for about 5 months, until A's 12th birthday in June.
L: September __ ~ Grandma's birthday. Grandma (Sherri's Mom) is no less wonderful! - joyful, loving, giving, musical, and gracious. L will turn 8 about 3 months before Ic's 8th birthday in December.
We were contacted by the agency and told that they were in the process of putting together the paperwork for the girl's Ethiopian birth certificates. Since their dates of birth are unknown, the agency assigned them birthdays when they came into care over 3 years ago. The agency is trying something new, allowing adoptive parents to have some say in establishing birth dates for their legal paperwork.
In trying to decide their birthdays, we took into account the girl's estimated ages, school placement, and the birth dates of the kids already home. We considered meaningful dates, and decided upon these three:
Mo: June __ ~ the anniversary date of my Uncle Bob and late Aunt Judy's wedding. Uncle Bob and Aunt Judy (Sherri's 'other parents') celebrated their anniversary on the __th of every month... but were actually married on June _. Mo is E's 'twin' 13 year old, both with June birthdays.
Ed: February _ ~ Oma's birthday. Oma (Berny's Mom) is a wonderful lady - strong, gentle, patient, active, and lovely. Ed and A will be 'twins' for about 5 months, until A's 12th birthday in June.
L: September __ ~ Grandma's birthday. Grandma (Sherri's Mom) is no less wonderful! - joyful, loving, giving, musical, and gracious. L will turn 8 about 3 months before Ic's 8th birthday in December.
February 5
I'm actually too tired to go into deep detail, but must tell you about yesterday... at least enough to explain why just the act of trying to leave my house turns into a comedy routine!
While trying hurry out of the house for an appointment in GR, everything seems to be pulling for my time.
After I scurry around to get ready to go and head for the door, the phone rings: the meat processor is ready to cut and wrap our beef, and still hasn't gotten orders from all of our customers. Whoo boy... don't have time for this! Make a few phone calls to solve the beef issue, field a few needs from one child or another, run back and forth to the van outside trying to make it look presentable again (to bring to the dealership in GR to have a hitch installed). During a check over of the back of the van, I notice the speaker cover which had been popped off early in our van ownership and decide that it's just too embarrassing to let the dealership see it that way. No problem... quickly run back into the house for some adhesive... glue... hold... remove hand... notice sag... reglue... hold again... let go... looks good... slam door to close... hear cover clunk onto the floor of van... sigh... give up.
I run back into the house to give final instructions and say good-byes. My last task is to give Ic a sermonette about how well he is to behave for his sister while I'm gone. I'm just about finished when he takes a swig of milk. The milk hits the wrong pipe which triggers an involuntary cough, and milk SPEWS across the kitchen.
I had been approaching the tension point = "I HAVE to get out of here... I'm LATE!" But this puts me over the opposite edge. I'm laughing so hard that I'm not actually very helpful to G as we mop up the milk from the kitchen table, chairs, bench, floor, and Ic's hands, feet, and face.
I am finally on my way, slip sliding the van up our icy road. Only about 1/4 mile from our house, I look up to see a Bald Eagle soaring in the sky. I watch both road and eagle... The eagle perches atop a huge, bright green pine tree, holding its wings out for balance. Gorgeous! Breathtaking!
Any day which starts with spewed milk AND a bald eagle is going to be a GREAT day!
While trying hurry out of the house for an appointment in GR, everything seems to be pulling for my time.
After I scurry around to get ready to go and head for the door, the phone rings: the meat processor is ready to cut and wrap our beef, and still hasn't gotten orders from all of our customers. Whoo boy... don't have time for this! Make a few phone calls to solve the beef issue, field a few needs from one child or another, run back and forth to the van outside trying to make it look presentable again (to bring to the dealership in GR to have a hitch installed). During a check over of the back of the van, I notice the speaker cover which had been popped off early in our van ownership and decide that it's just too embarrassing to let the dealership see it that way. No problem... quickly run back into the house for some adhesive... glue... hold... remove hand... notice sag... reglue... hold again... let go... looks good... slam door to close... hear cover clunk onto the floor of van... sigh... give up.
I run back into the house to give final instructions and say good-byes. My last task is to give Ic a sermonette about how well he is to behave for his sister while I'm gone. I'm just about finished when he takes a swig of milk. The milk hits the wrong pipe which triggers an involuntary cough, and milk SPEWS across the kitchen.
I had been approaching the tension point = "I HAVE to get out of here... I'm LATE!" But this puts me over the opposite edge. I'm laughing so hard that I'm not actually very helpful to G as we mop up the milk from the kitchen table, chairs, bench, floor, and Ic's hands, feet, and face.
I am finally on my way, slip sliding the van up our icy road. Only about 1/4 mile from our house, I look up to see a Bald Eagle soaring in the sky. I watch both road and eagle... The eagle perches atop a huge, bright green pine tree, holding its wings out for balance. Gorgeous! Breathtaking!
Any day which starts with spewed milk AND a bald eagle is going to be a GREAT day!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Thursday, January 31, 2008
It's Official! (sort of)
Ed, L, Mo
We have passed court! The "sort of" part = one piece of paper which needs to arrive from the Ethiopian Embassy in Washington DC.
The Ethiopian court could have refused us, and required a new court date. Instead, we've been approved pending the receipt of this paper.
We were told that we should be able to travel in early March.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Lame Jokes and True Joy
While we wait and try to maintain normal life with our heart strings stretched taut all the way to Ethiopia, I've been considering what I could post.
We've been telling some jokes to lighten the mood. This could be suitable posting material...
Bern's favorite childhood joke:
"What is red and orange and lying in the ditch?"
~ "An injured cheese puff" ~
Or G's latest:
"What's brown and sounds like a bell?"
~ "Dung!" ~
...or NOT.
Yesterday the Lord provided... and not just writing material!
We are thrilled to announce that all of the funds for the adoption and travel are here! The final $2200 (ish) needed came in during these 5-6 days of waiting to hear the results of our court date. God's people have been so generous, and the Lord has removed all roadblocks for bringing the girls home!
We've heard that the airline is offering a discount (something like 'buy one, get one half price') for flights from the US to Addis. Our hope is to have a travel date very soon, so that we can take advantage of this temporary special pricing. Any money we can save on travel could be used to purchase some of the items we still need for the girls, and for the completion of the remodelling necessary to fit everyone! Please pray with us for news of a potential travel date!
We've been telling some jokes to lighten the mood. This could be suitable posting material...
Bern's favorite childhood joke:
"What is red and orange and lying in the ditch?"
~ "An injured cheese puff" ~
Or G's latest:
"What's brown and sounds like a bell?"
~ "Dung!" ~
...or NOT.
Yesterday the Lord provided... and not just writing material!
We are thrilled to announce that all of the funds for the adoption and travel are here! The final $2200 (ish) needed came in during these 5-6 days of waiting to hear the results of our court date. God's people have been so generous, and the Lord has removed all roadblocks for bringing the girls home!
We've heard that the airline is offering a discount (something like 'buy one, get one half price') for flights from the US to Addis. Our hope is to have a travel date very soon, so that we can take advantage of this temporary special pricing. Any money we can save on travel could be used to purchase some of the items we still need for the girls, and for the completion of the remodelling necessary to fit everyone! Please pray with us for news of a potential travel date!
Friday, January 25, 2008
We Wait
We had hoped to have news about passing court today. Unfortunately, our agency has no information for us. We will have to wait until Monday when the office is open again. Bummer.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Sweet 16
Beautiful ~ Inside and Out
Last year on this day, I made the mistake of sitting on the couch with G to look through her baby book. Neither of us could hold our emotions together, weeping as we realized how quickly 15 years had passed. I don't even dare glance at that book today! Our lovely daughter is 16!
We joke about G being our 'experimental model' ~ the first one through our feeble attempts to parent and homeschool. She has made us look waaay too good. A true treasure...
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