Monday, December 29, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
TOP TEN...well, almost 10
We had an amazing time in Mexico!!! Here is a quick review of the top things...
1. Warm weather...I am praying the Lord calls our family to live there. The sun does soooo much for me!
2. Visiting an orphanage....we were so encouraged to see how well these children are cared for here. They had so many volunteers and a beautiful facility. We visited them on our first day there and brought lots of supplies.
3. Swimming with dolphins....this was sooo much fun. We all got into the water with the dolphins...gave them kisses and hugs. We got to pet them and dance and swim with them. It was a blast! I wish we had more pictures....but the darn pictures cost $12 a piece!
4. The kids love the beach....building sand castles, looking for shells. I do not like sand but, hey I am willing to sacrifice that for my sunshine and the kids' smiles:)
5. Upon seeing the water slides, Caleb said "I am soooo going down those!" Both kids enjoyed the water park a lot.
6. The Marina.....this is a very fun area of Puerto Vallarta. We walked there a few times to shop and eat and to feed the pigeons....
7. Caleb dancing....
1. Warm weather...I am praying the Lord calls our family to live there. The sun does soooo much for me!
2. Visiting an orphanage....we were so encouraged to see how well these children are cared for here. They had so many volunteers and a beautiful facility. We visited them on our first day there and brought lots of supplies.
3. Swimming with dolphins....this was sooo much fun. We all got into the water with the dolphins...gave them kisses and hugs. We got to pet them and dance and swim with them. It was a blast! I wish we had more pictures....but the darn pictures cost $12 a piece!
4. The kids love the beach....building sand castles, looking for shells. I do not like sand but, hey I am willing to sacrifice that for my sunshine and the kids' smiles:)
5. Upon seeing the water slides, Caleb said "I am soooo going down those!" Both kids enjoyed the water park a lot.
6. The Marina.....this is a very fun area of Puerto Vallarta. We walked there a few times to shop and eat and to feed the pigeons....
7. Caleb dancing....Thursday, December 25, 2008
2008 In Review...Grateful to be Caleb's Daddy
Beau here. So we all have fun family traditions, and our family is no exception. Back in 1987 my older sister Yvette started a journal for our family where one family member chooses another family member to write to. The purpose of the book is to provide a bit of a history of the year and to celebrate the family member you write to. The writer also gives the recipient an ornament. So that book has been going for over 20 years now. Well Natalie liked the idea and started a journal for her and me back in 1995. We also added the tradition of putting a family photo in our journal each year. Well this year, I have our (Nat and mine) book, and I decided to write to Caleb...a first for our journal after 13 years of just Nat and me! Since I always type the letter before I hand write it, I thought I would share the note with our friends in the blog world, so here goes. Merry Christmas friends!
Dear Caleb,
This is the first year that you will receive this book, and I think it is well-deserved. So far, only mommy and I have written in the book, but as I reflect on the young man you are becoming, I think this is the year to add you to the rotation of writing in the book. Caleb, as I so often tell you, I am grateful to be your daddy. Here are the top five reasons I love being your daddy.
1. By the grace and will of God, you are a follower of Christ. There is no greater joy I can have than knowing that I will be with you for eternity here on earth and in heaven. – Ephesians 2:8-10
2. You love God’s Word. Whether you are confused, sad, scared, curious, or unsure, you always come to me and say “Daddy, what does the Bible say about…” And, I love when I walk in your room every night, and you say “Daddy, it’s time to read the Bible.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
3. You have such a caring and gentle heart. For example today I didn’t feel well, so you gave me one of your teddy bears to sleep with to help me feel better. You have a special burden for people and respond to that burden. – Luke 6:36
4. You are a giver. You recognize that all your resources (money, toys, food, etc) are really God’s resources, and you respond to opportunities to use those resources to bring glory to God. For example, you used your money to buy food for families our church is trying to love and you love to give food backs to the homeless in our area. – 1 John 3:16-18
5. You challenge me to be more of the man God made me to be. Whether it is your Scripture memory, your actively loving others, your faith-filled prayer, your big vision of the greatness of God, or your desire to study our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world…you remind me of the crazy, huge, all-inclusive call to bring glory to God in all we do. – 1 Corinthians 11:1
Thank you God for Caleb being an instrument of change in my life, for growing me into being more of the man you want me to be, so I can bring more glory to You.
Caleb, as you know, we use this letter to reflect on what has occurred during the course of the year, and this has been quite a year to reflect on as a family. If there is one word that defines the highlights of 2008, I would say it is ADVERSITY. Obviously, our waiting for your brother and sister to come home from Ethiopia has taken much longer than expected at eighteen months and counting, with many unexpected turns and disappointing news along the way. Concurrently, my career has never been more challenging than it was in 2008 as I have had to make very difficult and often unpopular decisions, putting the firm’s interests before my own oftentimes selfish interests. But as I reflect on the hardships we have faced for our family, for my career, and elsewhere, I honestly reflect on them as blessings. You see, God has been at the center of this incredible and unpredictable story for our family in 2008 (Romans 8:28-30, Psalm 139:13-16). I have believed in God’s sovereignty (or active hand) since soon after I became a follower of Christ, but this year, my theoretical belief in this concept was made firmer and deeper as it went from the theoretical to the applied. As such, I feel like I love, savor, and know Christ more deeply now than ever before in my life. I fell in love with Jesus about nine years ago, but the flame has never been hotter than it is right now. Many of the potential idols in my life have been rocked or removed in 2008, and I have found Christ in their place. Caleb, I can attest that in 2008, nothing was sweeter than Christ.
And Caleb, I hope you have seen this year how much your mommy and I love one another. We have certainly experienced some hardships and instability in life over our twelve plus years of marriage, and the instability in life has often overflowed into our marriage relationship. But this year, I praise God that in the midst of the most challenging year of life in general, our marriage has been rock solid. The craziness of the adoption…our marriage has been a shelter. The craziness of work…our marriage has been a shelter. You see son, if we know Christ and follow Him we also know the purpose of marriage and find success in marriage (Ephesians 5:31-33). For that, I am grateful. I love having a bride who loves Jesus so much that if I just try to seek God, then I get to seek her at the same time.
To wrap this up, I thought I would share a few fun highlights that come to mind for 2008
• The May 21 call introducing us to your new brother and sister
• You riding your big boy bike
• Moving to your new bedroom on the other side of the house
• Hannah starting kindergarten
• You starting to read big books all by yourself
Caleb, I can’t tell you how grateful I am to be your daddy. God willing, we will have many more years together, and I pray God would continue to use me as a positive part of your story. More than anything, I want you to seek God’s glory in all your life; therefore, I pray that I would be so consumed with God that you see Him and know Him as you hang out with me.
Grateful and humbled,
Daddy
Dear Caleb,
This is the first year that you will receive this book, and I think it is well-deserved. So far, only mommy and I have written in the book, but as I reflect on the young man you are becoming, I think this is the year to add you to the rotation of writing in the book. Caleb, as I so often tell you, I am grateful to be your daddy. Here are the top five reasons I love being your daddy.
1. By the grace and will of God, you are a follower of Christ. There is no greater joy I can have than knowing that I will be with you for eternity here on earth and in heaven. – Ephesians 2:8-10
2. You love God’s Word. Whether you are confused, sad, scared, curious, or unsure, you always come to me and say “Daddy, what does the Bible say about…” And, I love when I walk in your room every night, and you say “Daddy, it’s time to read the Bible.” – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
3. You have such a caring and gentle heart. For example today I didn’t feel well, so you gave me one of your teddy bears to sleep with to help me feel better. You have a special burden for people and respond to that burden. – Luke 6:36
4. You are a giver. You recognize that all your resources (money, toys, food, etc) are really God’s resources, and you respond to opportunities to use those resources to bring glory to God. For example, you used your money to buy food for families our church is trying to love and you love to give food backs to the homeless in our area. – 1 John 3:16-18
5. You challenge me to be more of the man God made me to be. Whether it is your Scripture memory, your actively loving others, your faith-filled prayer, your big vision of the greatness of God, or your desire to study our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world…you remind me of the crazy, huge, all-inclusive call to bring glory to God in all we do. – 1 Corinthians 11:1
Thank you God for Caleb being an instrument of change in my life, for growing me into being more of the man you want me to be, so I can bring more glory to You.
Caleb, as you know, we use this letter to reflect on what has occurred during the course of the year, and this has been quite a year to reflect on as a family. If there is one word that defines the highlights of 2008, I would say it is ADVERSITY. Obviously, our waiting for your brother and sister to come home from Ethiopia has taken much longer than expected at eighteen months and counting, with many unexpected turns and disappointing news along the way. Concurrently, my career has never been more challenging than it was in 2008 as I have had to make very difficult and often unpopular decisions, putting the firm’s interests before my own oftentimes selfish interests. But as I reflect on the hardships we have faced for our family, for my career, and elsewhere, I honestly reflect on them as blessings. You see, God has been at the center of this incredible and unpredictable story for our family in 2008 (Romans 8:28-30, Psalm 139:13-16). I have believed in God’s sovereignty (or active hand) since soon after I became a follower of Christ, but this year, my theoretical belief in this concept was made firmer and deeper as it went from the theoretical to the applied. As such, I feel like I love, savor, and know Christ more deeply now than ever before in my life. I fell in love with Jesus about nine years ago, but the flame has never been hotter than it is right now. Many of the potential idols in my life have been rocked or removed in 2008, and I have found Christ in their place. Caleb, I can attest that in 2008, nothing was sweeter than Christ.
And Caleb, I hope you have seen this year how much your mommy and I love one another. We have certainly experienced some hardships and instability in life over our twelve plus years of marriage, and the instability in life has often overflowed into our marriage relationship. But this year, I praise God that in the midst of the most challenging year of life in general, our marriage has been rock solid. The craziness of the adoption…our marriage has been a shelter. The craziness of work…our marriage has been a shelter. You see son, if we know Christ and follow Him we also know the purpose of marriage and find success in marriage (Ephesians 5:31-33). For that, I am grateful. I love having a bride who loves Jesus so much that if I just try to seek God, then I get to seek her at the same time.
To wrap this up, I thought I would share a few fun highlights that come to mind for 2008
• The May 21 call introducing us to your new brother and sister
• You riding your big boy bike
• Moving to your new bedroom on the other side of the house
• Hannah starting kindergarten
• You starting to read big books all by yourself
Caleb, I can’t tell you how grateful I am to be your daddy. God willing, we will have many more years together, and I pray God would continue to use me as a positive part of your story. More than anything, I want you to seek God’s glory in all your life; therefore, I pray that I would be so consumed with God that you see Him and know Him as you hang out with me.
Grateful and humbled,
Daddy
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Feliz Navidad
We just returned *today* from a wonderfully relaxing and very warm vacation to Mexico....so Feliz Navidad!!!! It was a very last minute trip....we have done everything "last minute" over the last year as our lives have been on hold for our adoption. Well, Christmas cards fit into that category too....especially with two of our children missing from the annual Christmas card photo. With every delay in bringing B and Y home, we have waited on planning/doing many things....one of which was taking holiday pictures and sending Christmas cards. Without having B and Y in a picture....well, cards didn't seem as fun to make this year. Though, we are having many wonderful holiday celebrations!!!!!!! But I hate not sending out cards...hate "missing" anyone on our list! I love love love sending (and getting) the cards each year....yet this year is different for us. Soooo while we wait....we will make you all wait too....
I promise more vacation pictures and video soon so check back:)
I promise more vacation pictures and video soon so check back:)
Praying for each of you to have a beautiful Christmas and blessed 2009!
Saturday, December 20, 2008
My Friend Victor
I laughed really hard at dinner tonight. It was a lot of fun.
So we go to this joint called Victor's. Right when we sit down they bring me a tequila "complements of the house." When it is time to order drinks, I see the sign "Beer $1.20", so I realize tonight is a beer night, not a margarita night. So they bring my Pacifico Beer, and lo and behold, they bring a tequila with it. Apparently, the tequila comes with the $1.20 beer. So then we eat some killer food. I had fajitas, and they bring me a huge bowl of jalapenos to go with it. My kind of place.
Later the three piece band comes around - three gents in their late 60s or early 70s. When they start playing at our table, Caleb gets his swurve on. Next thing you know, one of the amigos gives Caleb the mariachis, and Caleb is part of the band. We have a blast with that for a while. Video to follow later.
A few minutes later, Victor, the owner, comes to visit us. He calls to the waiter "we need some tequila here." I ask him "why do we need tequila", and he responds "because my wife doesn't get here till 7pm." So of course, my view is "when in rome..."
Next thing you know they bring free ice cream for the kids and free pina coladas for the big kids. Even my well-behaved wife had her drink.
We were in a marina, and the kids ran off to feed the pigeons while we hung out and talked. All in all a great night after a really fun day.
Grateful I am not in a southern baptist church where this post would be treason,
Beau
So we go to this joint called Victor's. Right when we sit down they bring me a tequila "complements of the house." When it is time to order drinks, I see the sign "Beer $1.20", so I realize tonight is a beer night, not a margarita night. So they bring my Pacifico Beer, and lo and behold, they bring a tequila with it. Apparently, the tequila comes with the $1.20 beer. So then we eat some killer food. I had fajitas, and they bring me a huge bowl of jalapenos to go with it. My kind of place.
Later the three piece band comes around - three gents in their late 60s or early 70s. When they start playing at our table, Caleb gets his swurve on. Next thing you know, one of the amigos gives Caleb the mariachis, and Caleb is part of the band. We have a blast with that for a while. Video to follow later.
A few minutes later, Victor, the owner, comes to visit us. He calls to the waiter "we need some tequila here." I ask him "why do we need tequila", and he responds "because my wife doesn't get here till 7pm." So of course, my view is "when in rome..."
Next thing you know they bring free ice cream for the kids and free pina coladas for the big kids. Even my well-behaved wife had her drink.
We were in a marina, and the kids ran off to feed the pigeons while we hung out and talked. All in all a great night after a really fun day.
Grateful I am not in a southern baptist church where this post would be treason,
Beau
Friday, December 19, 2008
Puerto Vallarta Orphanage
Beau here. Chilling at the beach in Puerto Vallarta. We spent the afternoon visiting a small orphanage here. We contacted them Monday to get a list of needs and brought some stuff with us from Dallas - Christmas gift for each kid, food, meds, diapers, etc. We took some pics at the orphanage, and we will try to post them when we get back. Anyway, we had a blast and came away so encouraged. There are about 50 kids and two full time employees - a nun and another lady. In addition, there are a ton of volunteers, which is what really encouraged me. Lot of 50 and 60 somethings from the US and Canada who spend part (or all) of the year down in PV. These folks volunteer 3-5 hours a day about 3 days a week. One lady enjoys ironing, so she comes in to iron clothes for the kids for about 10-15 hours a week. Another guy plays with the kids, while another guy prepares the meals. I love how these folks are being purposeful with their time rather than clinging to some entitled view of retirement. Also, met one other family that took time out of their vacation to visit the orphans. That was a real encouragement too.
Right when Caleb and Hannah got there, the kids ran and started hugging them. Next thing you knwo they are all playing chase. Two sisters, about 3 and 5 years old, clung to me for about 30 minutes which was a lot of fun. I will try to post a picture of them.
These kids are often folks where their parents leave them for weeks or months while they go do migrant farming work. Others are abondoned while some are taken from their folks due to some tragedy.
Caleb asked me "why are these kids smiling and having fun?" I got to remind Caleb about God's extra special love for the orphans and mentioned God's words in James 1 and Psalm 146.
Came away blessed and encouraged.
Right when Caleb and Hannah got there, the kids ran and started hugging them. Next thing you knwo they are all playing chase. Two sisters, about 3 and 5 years old, clung to me for about 30 minutes which was a lot of fun. I will try to post a picture of them.
These kids are often folks where their parents leave them for weeks or months while they go do migrant farming work. Others are abondoned while some are taken from their folks due to some tragedy.
Caleb asked me "why are these kids smiling and having fun?" I got to remind Caleb about God's extra special love for the orphans and mentioned God's words in James 1 and Psalm 146.
Came away blessed and encouraged.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
January 29th
Our next court date....attempt #6
It has been super cold here....in the 4os right now I think....I laugh when I read my fellow bloggers entries about their temperatures....9 degrees or 15 below.....ouch......well 40 is too cold for me....we are heading south for a few days of sunshine.....we will catch up when we return.
It has been super cold here....in the 4os right now I think....I laugh when I read my fellow bloggers entries about their temperatures....9 degrees or 15 below.....ouch......well 40 is too cold for me....we are heading south for a few days of sunshine.....we will catch up when we return.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Praise
Beau here. So I wrapped up earlier this morning on my two month study of the Psalms. I read through each Psalm and wrote out a prayer for each. So as I was reading Psalm 147 this morning about "praise" and what God had done for his people, I had like this massive twent car collission in my brain of a bunch of things in my life worthy of praise. I tried to quickly scribble down all the cars in the collission. Here was the list:
Father, you are worthy of praise. I praise You for Christ crucified and resurrected, for opening my eyes to Your gift of salvation, for my bride, for my children, for those who know and love me, for the church, for Your Word, for my reasoning and intelligence to know and use Your Word, for my freedom to worship You, for provision for my needs and an abundance to give in Your name, for Your sovereignty, for Your love for the oppressed, and for Your grace and truth.
Praying we are all overwhelmed by God's love.
Father, you are worthy of praise. I praise You for Christ crucified and resurrected, for opening my eyes to Your gift of salvation, for my bride, for my children, for those who know and love me, for the church, for Your Word, for my reasoning and intelligence to know and use Your Word, for my freedom to worship You, for provision for my needs and an abundance to give in Your name, for Your sovereignty, for Your love for the oppressed, and for Your grace and truth.
Praying we are all overwhelmed by God's love.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Great 24 Hours
Beau here.
So the last 24 hours have been a lot of fun for me. Two highlights.
First, we booked a last minute vacation to Puerto Vallarta today. We leave Thursday. We have continually delayed or canceled family vacations all year because of adoption stuff. So this weekend I decided we needed to squeeze in a week on the beach. I am pumped..especially because the resort has a sushi chef.
Second, I got to get my preach on last night. I have been hanging with an African (primarily Kenyan) church here in Dallas for the past few months as we at Watermark try to discern how the Lord would have us serve and learn from this great local church. So on Wednesday I was given an opportunity to preach at their church last night. It was their annual married couples Christmas dinner, and they needed someone to do a 40 minute sermon on something related to marriage.
So here is my David Letterman Top 5 list of why I know I was at a Kenyan church and not your typical American church.
5. The event was supposed to go from 7-9pm but ended up lasting until after 11pm. Reminds me of my first visit to Africa and church went 6 hours...never in a rush.
4. See point 5 above. They told me to preach for 40 minutes, so I went for 60 minutes :) If the event was supposed to be over at 9pm, and I didn't get up to speak until after 9pm then what the heck! And nobody got antsy and walked out...definitely not an American church. I taught on the tie between the gospel and marriage. I have been listening to Piper for way too long and now feel like the gospel needs to be preached in every message :) If you want to see a copy of what I did, ping me at bfournet@hbk.com
3. Main components of the dinner was goat and chai tea. The sweet lady who set up the room did an incredible job of making it very formal. She had fine china for all 50 of us. So all the Kenyans, who absolutely love their chai tea, were complaining about the small china coffee cups because they had to keep getting up to refill their coffee cups. As the master of ceremonies, on three occasions between introductions she kept telling people she knew they were disappointed with the small cups but that they needed to enjoy using fine china. This was apparently a big deal.
2. When I was introduced to this lady later in the evening by the Senior Pastor, she asked me how I was enjoying myself. I said, "I am having a great time, but my coffee cup is too small." Hey, I couldn't help myself...when in Rome...
1. I was sitting beside a great guy who moved to America from Kenya four years ago. He asked about my family history which I shared. I then asked how many siblings he had. So he says "I am the 9th of 13 kids." I am thinking "holy cow." Then he says, "but my father was a polygamist." (note: in rural areas of Africa, this is not uncommon) So I am thinking "okay, so at least it was two women who bore the 13 kids." Then he says, "My father's other wife had 10 kids, so I am one of 23 children." I went to get another cup of chai tea.
I should be speaking at the church again early next year on stewardship. Looking forward to it. But right now, I am really looking forward to the beach in Mexico...
So the last 24 hours have been a lot of fun for me. Two highlights.
First, we booked a last minute vacation to Puerto Vallarta today. We leave Thursday. We have continually delayed or canceled family vacations all year because of adoption stuff. So this weekend I decided we needed to squeeze in a week on the beach. I am pumped..especially because the resort has a sushi chef.
Second, I got to get my preach on last night. I have been hanging with an African (primarily Kenyan) church here in Dallas for the past few months as we at Watermark try to discern how the Lord would have us serve and learn from this great local church. So on Wednesday I was given an opportunity to preach at their church last night. It was their annual married couples Christmas dinner, and they needed someone to do a 40 minute sermon on something related to marriage.
So here is my David Letterman Top 5 list of why I know I was at a Kenyan church and not your typical American church.
5. The event was supposed to go from 7-9pm but ended up lasting until after 11pm. Reminds me of my first visit to Africa and church went 6 hours...never in a rush.
4. See point 5 above. They told me to preach for 40 minutes, so I went for 60 minutes :) If the event was supposed to be over at 9pm, and I didn't get up to speak until after 9pm then what the heck! And nobody got antsy and walked out...definitely not an American church. I taught on the tie between the gospel and marriage. I have been listening to Piper for way too long and now feel like the gospel needs to be preached in every message :) If you want to see a copy of what I did, ping me at bfournet@hbk.com
3. Main components of the dinner was goat and chai tea. The sweet lady who set up the room did an incredible job of making it very formal. She had fine china for all 50 of us. So all the Kenyans, who absolutely love their chai tea, were complaining about the small china coffee cups because they had to keep getting up to refill their coffee cups. As the master of ceremonies, on three occasions between introductions she kept telling people she knew they were disappointed with the small cups but that they needed to enjoy using fine china. This was apparently a big deal.
2. When I was introduced to this lady later in the evening by the Senior Pastor, she asked me how I was enjoying myself. I said, "I am having a great time, but my coffee cup is too small." Hey, I couldn't help myself...when in Rome...
1. I was sitting beside a great guy who moved to America from Kenya four years ago. He asked about my family history which I shared. I then asked how many siblings he had. So he says "I am the 9th of 13 kids." I am thinking "holy cow." Then he says, "but my father was a polygamist." (note: in rural areas of Africa, this is not uncommon) So I am thinking "okay, so at least it was two women who bore the 13 kids." Then he says, "My father's other wife had 10 kids, so I am one of 23 children." I went to get another cup of chai tea.
I should be speaking at the church again early next year on stewardship. Looking forward to it. But right now, I am really looking forward to the beach in Mexico...
Friday, December 12, 2008
Delayed a 5th time
We still do not have what is needed to pass court on Monday. I am tired. sad. still hoping. longing to be with my babies.
We should know more on Monday or Tuesday about what is next. Thanks for your incredible support and prayers. We know God is good and we are reminded by each of you!
We should know more on Monday or Tuesday about what is next. Thanks for your incredible support and prayers. We know God is good and we are reminded by each of you!
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
are dants....our dance
The kids made invitations to a dance party. I grabbed my camera and laughed until I cried....like only a Mommy can.
Monday, December 08, 2008
One week
One week until our 5th attempt at court...please be praying with us that we will have all that is needed to have success next Monday!
Isn't this the sweetest little hand?
Isn't this the sweetest little hand?
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
December 15th
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3
While we still need "the document"....we are hopeful and are prayerfully trusting December 15th to the One who has it in His hands. Please be praying with us for the document and this upcoming new date. This is a surprisingly quick new date...we are humbled, nervous, hopeful, excited, and praying:) This is our 4th (I think) official court date...our kind of 6th attempt at court....we soooo appreciate your prayers!!!!
No other big thoughts tonight...those of you adopting already know how hard and how up and down this is. Thanks to everyone for your support!
While we still need "the document"....we are hopeful and are prayerfully trusting December 15th to the One who has it in His hands. Please be praying with us for the document and this upcoming new date. This is a surprisingly quick new date...we are humbled, nervous, hopeful, excited, and praying:) This is our 4th (I think) official court date...our kind of 6th attempt at court....we soooo appreciate your prayers!!!!
No other big thoughts tonight...those of you adopting already know how hard and how up and down this is. Thanks to everyone for your support!
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Delayed Again
Beau here.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:4-9)
We learned yesterday that we are still waiting for one document and won't be able to pass court Monday. We hope to hear Monday of a new court date, which should be six to eight weeks out from now.
This is obviously not what we had hoped for, but we are resting in our confidence of the Lord's sovereignty, mercy, compassion, wisdom, and holiness. We are confident that the Lord will glorify Himself in all of this, and we look forward to hopefully seeing some of those ways.
We also know that the Lord promises not to give us any more circumstances than we can handle, so we are humbled that He trusts us to live with this in a way that honors Him and points others and ourselves towards the only One who can truly bring peace in our fallen world.
In my quiet time this morning I read and prayed through Psalm 103. The passage continually said of the Lord's character that it is "steadfast love" and "compassion" and said of His people's character that it is "obedience" and "reverence."
We are grateful for Job, Ruth, Hosea, Micah, Nahum, and others who have gone before us and pointed us towards a right response in the midst of circumstances we had neither hoped for nor expected - faith, trust, obedience, humility, and authenticity.
To God be the glory.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:4-9)
We learned yesterday that we are still waiting for one document and won't be able to pass court Monday. We hope to hear Monday of a new court date, which should be six to eight weeks out from now.
This is obviously not what we had hoped for, but we are resting in our confidence of the Lord's sovereignty, mercy, compassion, wisdom, and holiness. We are confident that the Lord will glorify Himself in all of this, and we look forward to hopefully seeing some of those ways.
We also know that the Lord promises not to give us any more circumstances than we can handle, so we are humbled that He trusts us to live with this in a way that honors Him and points others and ourselves towards the only One who can truly bring peace in our fallen world.
In my quiet time this morning I read and prayed through Psalm 103. The passage continually said of the Lord's character that it is "steadfast love" and "compassion" and said of His people's character that it is "obedience" and "reverence."
We are grateful for Job, Ruth, Hosea, Micah, Nahum, and others who have gone before us and pointed us towards a right response in the midst of circumstances we had neither hoped for nor expected - faith, trust, obedience, humility, and authenticity.
To God be the glory.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
THANKS
Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.
Received this message today from a worker in Ethiopia....
Where do I begin with these two…it seems like every week they are up to something! This week, it was running and laughing, avoiding the caregivers who were chasing them around. Naturally, B was without pants, which fits his boyishness well. Everyone who comes by the center comments on how big B has become! "Dense" is the word that many people use, because he really does feel like he weighs 100 pounds. Make sure to buy a heavy duty stroller! Y's fourth tooth is coming in, and though she may be smaller than her brother, appearances can be deceiving. She is really fast! She can outrun many of the kids that are much older than she is. Both are looking great, and still thriving in the toddler room! I hope you enjoy the photos, though the only ones B would give me have his tongue sticking out! Have a wonderful thanksgiving!
Weight: B – 11.3kg (24.9 lbs) Y – 9kg (19.8 lbs)”
Weight: B – 11.3kg (24.9 lbs) Y – 9kg (19.8 lbs)”
You turned my wailing into dancing, You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give You thanks forever.
We are prepared with the strong possibility of not passing court on Monday. The needed document is still not as or where it needs to be. Words can not express...the sadness we feel of waiting more....nor the peace we have in God's perfect timing. We will keep waiting as long as we need to...to bring these precious children home!
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us...we know that God is able...go read Daniel 3 and the faith of 3...we are praying for that kind of faith and trust....and we are still praying for the Lord to "part the sea" and make a miraculous way for the document and the judge to have a lovely meeting on Monday:) Pray with us as we deal with the uncertainties of this world and the emotions that brings to us today. And pray for our babies as the continue to wait too:(
Praying with you all for an already blessed Thanksgiving!
And thanking God for spunk and attitude and fun every day...
Monday, November 24, 2008
Congo - Rape, Murder, and Other Terror
Beau here. As many of you know, I have had the privelege of going to Central Africa a few times to teach and minister to people. The most striking place I have ever been is Goma, Congo. It is on the eastern border of Congo in North Kivu province along the Rwanda border. There has been a sporadic battle in the region sicne 1996, and it has taken the lives of 5.5 million people. 75% of the world's rapes happen in eastern Congo where over 80% of women have been raped. The number of small children living on the streets is striking. I had the privelege of preaching in a church where well over half of those in church were less than 10 years old. Nearly every one of them was an orphan. I have included a photo of some of them in front of the church.
As my friends and I have received e-mails and phone calls from people in Goma over the past week, it has become clear that things are deteriorating. I would like to challenge you to help with this situation. Here are some ideas.
1. Write your congressional leaders. I have incuded my letter at the bottom as an example.
2. Pray for the courage of God's ambassadors in Goma to stand firm, for the end of violence, and for righteousness to rein in Goma.
3. Watch this video from CBS to get better educated. Or watch this video from our church yesterday to get some ideas on how your church can respond collectively.
4. Contribute funds to provide for food and basics until a more sustainable solution is reached.
5. Grow your understanding of and empathy with those struggling to eat daily by fasting or restricting your diet to basics like rice, beans, and flour.
Praying,
Beau
--------------
Mr. Sessions,
I am writing to express my concerns about the atrocities in Goma, Congo and our lack of response to the horrors taking place. Over the last decade, nearly 5.5 million people have been killed in this horrible conflict along the Congolese border with Rwanda, Uganda, and Sudan. In addition, it is estimated that over 80% of women in eastern Congo have been raped. Think of all the women in your family and the magnitude of 4 out of every 5 of them having been raped. Yet, much like with Rwanda, we as a country have not done anything to meaningfully end the violence.
I have been to Goma, Congo twice in the past twenty-four months. There are fine people in Goma, hard working people who want peace. Yet, they are being murdered, beaten, raped, and robbed by a small group of ruthless rebels and thugs.
We have got to do something about this. They don't have oil we need or border a strategic military location or have enriched uranium, but that is not an acceptable reason to turn our eyes on this situation.
Mr. Sessions, I am a follower of Christ, and with that incredible privilege comes a great responsibility. Through the Apostle John, the Lord tells me "if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Let us not just love in word or talk, but in deed and truth." I have a responsibility to do something about this. I can go, and I have. I can pray, and I have. I can give money to help, and I have. I can tell those in positions of authority like you, and I have.
Mr. Sessions, I don't know if you are a follower of Christ or not. If you are, I pray you would be faithful to your calling and proclamation. If you are not a follower of Christ, I pray you would call me, so I can tell you about Him. Then, I pray you would be faithful to the call of justice.
I have been receiving e-mails from friends in Goma in recent days, and it is heart-breaking. How many more women have to be raped? How many children orphaned?
And Mr. Sessions, please don't rely on the UN troops. I have seen them in Goma each time I have gone. They aren't doing much of use. We have seen the UN fail enough in their "peace keeping" efforts to know we can't rely on them.
Esther 4:14,
Beau Fournet
I'm anxiuos
I have to admit I am anxious today. Our court date is one week away and we still do not have what we need. We are hoping and praying that we soon receive word on the document needed...I'd love to hear some good news today:) I would covet your prayers for peace for me as I wait....and prayers for the work needed to be completed in country to be completed in time and in correct order. Many thanks friends!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Hoping
I have received several emails from you sweet friends asking about the document in question for the twins. The kids and I were praying this morning for this document and I was wondering myself what is happening in Ethiopia today with this document. I think it is amazing that you all are praying right now, that the Lord is sharing our burden with you all and that you are being such faithful friends to help us carry this burden in prayer. We do not know what is happening "today"...but we did receive an update a couple of days ago. This week is possibly a big week for our case as the final document will hopefully be in the right hands by the end of the week....we are praying that this happens!!!! December 1st is still our court date, so we are continuing to lift that date in prayer as well.
There are some Gladney families traveling this week to meet their children....and some Gladney families that have found out bad news this week regarding postponements of their adoptions. To all you families out there with joyous news and those with heavy hearts...we are praying for you and hoping for wonderful days ahead for your families.
There are some Gladney families traveling this week to meet their children....and some Gladney families that have found out bad news this week regarding postponements of their adoptions. To all you families out there with joyous news and those with heavy hearts...we are praying for you and hoping for wonderful days ahead for your families.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Advent Conspiracy Promo Video
I am sure I posted on this last year:) My heart is heavy with a desire to get closer each year..step by step...to the true meaning of Christ's birthday. Watch this...go check out http://www.adventconspiracy.org/ and http://rethinkingchristmas.com/ for ideas. I will post more when I get some clarity for what we will do:) This I know...WE have enough STUFF! Who needs us to share????
Monday, November 03, 2008
Trust me
Trust me when I say that we have the cutest kids ever. We received an update on the twins and they are soooo soooo cute and getting so big. While we can't share the photo online, I'm pretty sure it's legal to share their latest artwork.
Y's artwork above...B's artwork below..... 
And some pictures of the cutest kids we can post online.....
Y's artwork above...B's artwork below..... And some pictures of the cutest kids we can post online.....Friday, October 24, 2008
The Good and The Bad
Random recordings of happenings around here....
Good stuff first...
1. We (the kids and I) did early voting yesterday....the kids had a blast helping to push buttons. I had a blast voting for *$?!$!%?*....I really had a blast talking to the kids about the great privilege we have in this country to chose our leaders....talking about those who do not have a choice....I had to fight back tears explaining the blessing it is for us to be able to vote....we are thankful!
2. We got flu shots....well the good part was the treats after the shots:)
3. I had no kids today for about 4 hours...and decided to indulge my lazy side. I vegged on the couch and watched a "made for TV" movie. This is something I never do....well until today....It was low quality drama and such good therapy:)
4. We have had our first "cold" days...it was about 58 degrees the other night....and we lit a fire and roasted marshmallows and drank hot cocoa. Down here in Texas we have to take advantage of our cold days:)
5. I joined Facebook....it is very overwhelming and confusing...I need lessons...I am not even sure if I should list this under "good things"
Only 1 bad thing....bad dreams from a Mommy still struggling with this WAIT...
1. I've had random bad dreams about the twins...of the adoption being completely denied, of more delays, of leaving the babies in their cribs all day when they get home (this one was a horrible dream, I just left baby boy in his crib all day....yikes....you all know how much I hate thinking of them in cribs so much right now, so I guess it twisted around in a bad dream) I hate bad dreams.....and I know that my spirit is still struggling with this wait!
Good stuff first...
1. We (the kids and I) did early voting yesterday....the kids had a blast helping to push buttons. I had a blast voting for *$?!$!%?*....I really had a blast talking to the kids about the great privilege we have in this country to chose our leaders....talking about those who do not have a choice....I had to fight back tears explaining the blessing it is for us to be able to vote....we are thankful!
2. We got flu shots....well the good part was the treats after the shots:)
3. I had no kids today for about 4 hours...and decided to indulge my lazy side. I vegged on the couch and watched a "made for TV" movie. This is something I never do....well until today....It was low quality drama and such good therapy:)
4. We have had our first "cold" days...it was about 58 degrees the other night....and we lit a fire and roasted marshmallows and drank hot cocoa. Down here in Texas we have to take advantage of our cold days:)
5. I joined Facebook....it is very overwhelming and confusing...I need lessons...I am not even sure if I should list this under "good things"
Only 1 bad thing....bad dreams from a Mommy still struggling with this WAIT...
1. I've had random bad dreams about the twins...of the adoption being completely denied, of more delays, of leaving the babies in their cribs all day when they get home (this one was a horrible dream, I just left baby boy in his crib all day....yikes....you all know how much I hate thinking of them in cribs so much right now, so I guess it twisted around in a bad dream) I hate bad dreams.....and I know that my spirit is still struggling with this wait!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
God of all comfort
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
Sweet friends Emily and Pam did just that....these two gals KNOW what it is like to wait....they KNOW the pain and blessings that come with this season....they KNOW how to love and encourage me during the wait....they said they are praying for me and they sent me these...
They...the flowers and the friends...are beautiful....go check out their blogs...their stories, their children. and their hearts are also beautiful. And Emily...well one of her latest post has the funniest youtube videos ever...I am too lazy to post here but go check them out!
Thank you friends!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
December
Our new court date is December 1st. We are so thankful to have a date secured. Please continue praying with us during this next season of waiting...be praying for B and Y that they would be healthy and strong during their wait!
And go give well wishes to this family...Beau and I have prayed for these kids for a very long time. They did pass court yesterday!!!
And go give well wishes to this family...Beau and I have prayed for these kids for a very long time. They did pass court yesterday!!!
Friday, October 17, 2008
What next?
People keep asking 2 things....what next? and how are you REALLY doing?
The first question is simple....we are waiting for a new court date and the needed document to be gathered. We do not know when that will be, which means we do not know when we will travel. We *hope* to travel in December...
How we are doing is a bit more complex I guess...we are most sad for Band Y and their wait, disappointed for ourselves, confused on what to do with our mess of packing now....yet we have a peace....that only comes with trust. People don't believe us...I know...I don't believe it either...I have lived with myself over the years when news like this has rocked my world....so I am surprised and thankful for the peace we have been given. It is a gift, and here are a few ways the Lord has given it to us...
1. Experience...we have waited a long time through the adoption process...I think we may hold some unwanted records. We have also had a lot of loss in building our family and lots of waiting and trusting on God's timing over the years. We are not numb to the waiting...it still really hurts and is so very sad. But we have learned to trust....
2. His Word...while waiting for a referral I made a list of all God has to say on waiting and I read it every day. I don't pretend to be super bible study girl...I am not very academic or disciplined...but I have learned in my old age and in the experience mentioned above....that God's Word is living and powerful! (Email me if you want the list)
3. Love...we love B and Y...weird to those not in the adoption world...but we do love them without ever meeting them...this love sustains us as we will wait for as long as it takes (Lord please have mercy on that statement)
4. Community...most of you know that we have 3 more fams from our church that are adopting from Ethiopia, as well as, loads of other friends and awesome family that love B and Y as much as we do....and are all loving us well through this process. As well as an unbelievable blog community....who would of thought the internet could be so great? And I got flowers yesterday....a girl always feels better with flowers!
5. Gladney...our adoption agency...we love them. We know that they want all these children home as much as the families do. They love their job...and are really good at it. They are way more organized than I ever dream about. I think I could be good friends with these people if life ever allows it! Adoption is not for wimps...on either side of the table....though I am a wimp...but Gladney is not.
6. Perspective...if you are still reading:) go watch this and this. Or go check out this blog & this one and see God's work today in Ethiopia....amazing stuff! Perspective...I love to see all that God is doing and the things we want/need to be a part of....I love putting things in perspective and trusting in the One who is sovereign over it all!
The first question is simple....we are waiting for a new court date and the needed document to be gathered. We do not know when that will be, which means we do not know when we will travel. We *hope* to travel in December...
How we are doing is a bit more complex I guess...we are most sad for Band Y and their wait, disappointed for ourselves, confused on what to do with our mess of packing now....yet we have a peace....that only comes with trust. People don't believe us...I know...I don't believe it either...I have lived with myself over the years when news like this has rocked my world....so I am surprised and thankful for the peace we have been given. It is a gift, and here are a few ways the Lord has given it to us...
1. Experience...we have waited a long time through the adoption process...I think we may hold some unwanted records. We have also had a lot of loss in building our family and lots of waiting and trusting on God's timing over the years. We are not numb to the waiting...it still really hurts and is so very sad. But we have learned to trust....
2. His Word...while waiting for a referral I made a list of all God has to say on waiting and I read it every day. I don't pretend to be super bible study girl...I am not very academic or disciplined...but I have learned in my old age and in the experience mentioned above....that God's Word is living and powerful! (Email me if you want the list)
3. Love...we love B and Y...weird to those not in the adoption world...but we do love them without ever meeting them...this love sustains us as we will wait for as long as it takes (Lord please have mercy on that statement)
4. Community...most of you know that we have 3 more fams from our church that are adopting from Ethiopia, as well as, loads of other friends and awesome family that love B and Y as much as we do....and are all loving us well through this process. As well as an unbelievable blog community....who would of thought the internet could be so great? And I got flowers yesterday....a girl always feels better with flowers!
5. Gladney...our adoption agency...we love them. We know that they want all these children home as much as the families do. They love their job...and are really good at it. They are way more organized than I ever dream about. I think I could be good friends with these people if life ever allows it! Adoption is not for wimps...on either side of the table....though I am a wimp...but Gladney is not.
6. Perspective...if you are still reading:) go watch this and this. Or go check out this blog & this one and see God's work today in Ethiopia....amazing stuff! Perspective...I love to see all that God is doing and the things we want/need to be a part of....I love putting things in perspective and trusting in the One who is sovereign over it all!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
We will wait some more...
We received bad news today regarding our case. Due to policy type changes, our case was delayed until another document is gathered. We were told today to expect a new court case in mid to late November. While this is hard for us to process and came as quite a shock to us, we know that our Heavenly Father has all of this in His plan. We are grateful for that beyond explanation!
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. **Thank you Lord for this Truth...I don't know where we would be without it!
Two related thoughts....
When Abbey ( a caseworker) called I could tell in her sweet voice that she had bad news....and I immediately started praying...Lord, please let these babies be OK, just let this be something about a delay or something like that...so needless to say I was at first grateful when she said it was a delay....and then quickly very sad too:(
The call came when my Mom and I were going over the packing list....being this is the 3rd time we have packed I have quite a list (we started packing in June and in August when we thought we would pass court before)...The Lord is going to have to really give me supernatural strength to begin packing ever again....not sure that my heart can keep doing these preparations and delays:(
Thanks for your prayers and support! We will keep you posted...
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. **Thank you Lord for this Truth...I don't know where we would be without it!
Two related thoughts....
When Abbey ( a caseworker) called I could tell in her sweet voice that she had bad news....and I immediately started praying...Lord, please let these babies be OK, just let this be something about a delay or something like that...so needless to say I was at first grateful when she said it was a delay....and then quickly very sad too:(
The call came when my Mom and I were going over the packing list....being this is the 3rd time we have packed I have quite a list (we started packing in June and in August when we thought we would pass court before)...The Lord is going to have to really give me supernatural strength to begin packing ever again....not sure that my heart can keep doing these preparations and delays:(
Thanks for your prayers and support! We will keep you posted...
2 little people waiting for us...
Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. Isaiah 26:8
2 more days until court...
Monday, October 13, 2008
3
Unbelievable that we are *possibly* three days away from this wait ending. Please be praying with us as we seek a favorable outcome with the judge on Friday!
"But these things I plan, will not happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, be patient! For it will surely take place. It will not be late by a single day." Habakkuk 2:3
"But these things I plan, will not happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, be patient! For it will surely take place. It will not be late by a single day." Habakkuk 2:3
Sunday, October 12, 2008
5
Just 5 more days until court...hoping and praying that Friday brings good news!
So here is something fun while we wait....I've been tagged by Rebecca. Go check out her blog for starters....she is super cool and is waiting to bring home a boy.
7 random things about both of us...
1. My favorite holiday is Christmas. I grew up with wonderful memories of Christmas with my extended family, Christmas music always playing in our front room, and LOTS of decorations. As a family now with our own kids we love our own traditions...I have more fun with this holiday as a parent than I ever dreamed I could!
2. I have attended two universities...but only one with a real football team. Go Tigers!
3. Being tagged stresses me out...lots of pressure....which is perfect timing....I need the distraction!
4. In our H.S. I described my wife's strength in one phrase "She completes me"...quoting a movie...not expecting it to be in the real H.S. While completely true, I didn't expect it to make the final draft. If anyone wants to know the other funnies in the H.S....maybe we'll reveal them after Friday makes things final:) (For the record everything is true and accurate...yet most of you know it is weird and quite funny to read about your life in that way)
5. We love to go camping as a family. The kids love playing outside ALL DAY...and we love talks around the campfire at night! We like to really rough it....back up the minivan loaded up with all possible supplies, setting up a tent 10 feet from the van.
6. We both love to read...one reads only Fiction, the other only non-Fiction....not hard to guess which one. Both our big kids love books too....and we sent books to B and Y already. Hope they end up loving books as much as all of us!
7. I love cheeses on/in anything. I hate all cheese. I love beer, specifically Shiner. I hate beer. I love pasta. I only eat pasta when forced. I love salads. I have eaten only one salad in my entire life. I like Coke. I love Coke. I love buffalo wings. I have been converted and also like them.
Since it is late we are only tagging 2 people...Brandy and Sarah.
So here is something fun while we wait....I've been tagged by Rebecca. Go check out her blog for starters....she is super cool and is waiting to bring home a boy.
7 random things about both of us...1. My favorite holiday is Christmas. I grew up with wonderful memories of Christmas with my extended family, Christmas music always playing in our front room, and LOTS of decorations. As a family now with our own kids we love our own traditions...I have more fun with this holiday as a parent than I ever dreamed I could!
2. I have attended two universities...but only one with a real football team. Go Tigers!
3. Being tagged stresses me out...lots of pressure....which is perfect timing....I need the distraction!
4. In our H.S. I described my wife's strength in one phrase "She completes me"...quoting a movie...not expecting it to be in the real H.S. While completely true, I didn't expect it to make the final draft. If anyone wants to know the other funnies in the H.S....maybe we'll reveal them after Friday makes things final:) (For the record everything is true and accurate...yet most of you know it is weird and quite funny to read about your life in that way)
5. We love to go camping as a family. The kids love playing outside ALL DAY...and we love talks around the campfire at night! We like to really rough it....back up the minivan loaded up with all possible supplies, setting up a tent 10 feet from the van.
6. We both love to read...one reads only Fiction, the other only non-Fiction....not hard to guess which one. Both our big kids love books too....and we sent books to B and Y already. Hope they end up loving books as much as all of us!
7. I love cheeses on/in anything. I hate all cheese. I love beer, specifically Shiner. I hate beer. I love pasta. I only eat pasta when forced. I love salads. I have eaten only one salad in my entire life. I like Coke. I love Coke. I love buffalo wings. I have been converted and also like them.
Since it is late we are only tagging 2 people...Brandy and Sarah.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
7
7 MORE DAYS UNTIL COURT...NEXT FRIDAY...
TODAY WE REST....
BEAU AND I HAVE A QUICK NIGHT AWAY TONIGHT TO REST UP BEFORE WE START PACKING AND OTHER PREPARATIONS FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF TRAVELING SOON....
EARLIER TODAY WE WENT TO THE TEXAS STATE FAIR...
TODAY WE REST....
BEAU AND I HAVE A QUICK NIGHT AWAY TONIGHT TO REST UP BEFORE WE START PACKING AND OTHER PREPARATIONS FOR THE POSSIBILITY OF TRAVELING SOON....
EARLIER TODAY WE WENT TO THE TEXAS STATE FAIR...
Thursday, October 09, 2008
8
WE WAITED 8 MONTHS FOR THE REFERRAL OF OUR TWINS....AND I WOULD WAIT ANOTHER 8 MONTHS AND MORE FOR THEM. (I DON'T WANT TO OF COURSE) BUT WE LOVE THEM AND WILL DO ANYTHING FOR THEM. BUT HOPEFULLY WE ONLY HAVE TO WAIT 8 MORE DAYS UNTIL THEY ARE LEGALLY OURS!!!!
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
9
9 more days until court!
9 families that sent us pictures and videos of the babies!
THANK YOU!!!!
Coffeemom
Roberts Family
All these reasons
Chris and Jess
Baggett Family
Growing In Faith
Team Alexander
Baby from Ababa
Maureen
And many thanks to the families that also sent pictures that do not have blogs...
The gift of pictures and videos has been huge!!! We can't wait to do the same for other families waiting to bring their children home!
We have soooo many pictures.....when allowed, we will post the 150+ pictures....so stay tuned....
9 families that sent us pictures and videos of the babies!
THANK YOU!!!!
Coffeemom
Roberts Family
All these reasons
Chris and Jess
Baggett Family
Growing In Faith
Team Alexander
Baby from Ababa
Maureen
And many thanks to the families that also sent pictures that do not have blogs...
The gift of pictures and videos has been huge!!! We can't wait to do the same for other families waiting to bring their children home!
We have soooo many pictures.....when allowed, we will post the 150+ pictures....so stay tuned....
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
10, 9, 8, 7....
10 more days until our court date on October 17th. We are so hopeful and prayerful that B and Y will be home soon! We are more than ready!!!!!!
Friday, September 12, 2008
So much personality and beauty
Just what a Mommy needed to hear....
(Our friend Kimberly is in Ethiopia picking up her beautiful children. She was so kind to take a package to our twins and send us this note)
we have seen B* and Y* several times and loved on them!! we took a bazillion pictures of them! and great video! they are a hoot! Y* seems a little shy at first and then all of a sudden she breaks out with these hilarious faces as if she is putting on a show! she is beyond beautiful! such a petite little girl with such a sweet but big personality! B* was a little more reserved and taking us all in. he would just watch us act silly and coo at him and every once in a while would give us a coy little smirk. their caregivers were absolutely wonderful! such sweet ladies and you can tell they truly adore and love all the babies but B* and Y* especially! they are well taken care of and they were very clean! when we first walked in Y* was sitting in a little baby seat on the floor and just smiling away! they picked her up and put her in the baby bay with B*. the caregivers started making a sound like a train (ch-ch-ch-ch) in a sing-songy way and immediately Y* started to dance and sway and bop her head around around while laughing. it was so cute, we all started laughing and then B* started to laugh as well! we were able to get a lot of great pictures of them, but i must say that the pictures you have of them and the ones we snapped, do not do your beautiful children justice at all! they have so much personality and beauty that cannot be captured on film or video!
(Our friend Kimberly is in Ethiopia picking up her beautiful children. She was so kind to take a package to our twins and send us this note)
we have seen B* and Y* several times and loved on them!! we took a bazillion pictures of them! and great video! they are a hoot! Y* seems a little shy at first and then all of a sudden she breaks out with these hilarious faces as if she is putting on a show! she is beyond beautiful! such a petite little girl with such a sweet but big personality! B* was a little more reserved and taking us all in. he would just watch us act silly and coo at him and every once in a while would give us a coy little smirk. their caregivers were absolutely wonderful! such sweet ladies and you can tell they truly adore and love all the babies but B* and Y* especially! they are well taken care of and they were very clean! when we first walked in Y* was sitting in a little baby seat on the floor and just smiling away! they picked her up and put her in the baby bay with B*. the caregivers started making a sound like a train (ch-ch-ch-ch) in a sing-songy way and immediately Y* started to dance and sway and bop her head around around while laughing. it was so cute, we all started laughing and then B* started to laugh as well! we were able to get a lot of great pictures of them, but i must say that the pictures you have of them and the ones we snapped, do not do your beautiful children justice at all! they have so much personality and beauty that cannot be captured on film or video!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
They are walking!!!
We found out today that B and Y are officially walking. It was quite exciting news for us...but not without mixed emotions. We are missing them so much! We are thankful that they are doing so well....B has quite a little belly on him and Y has the most beautiful eyes. We wish we could post pictures of them...they are soooo cute!
Here are pics of our other walkers...Hannah (12 months) and Caleb (16 months) when they took their first steps.
Here are pics of our other walkers...Hannah (12 months) and Caleb (16 months) when they took their first steps.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Update
I have been desperate for an update....look what email I just read...I wish I could post their pictures because they are both getting so big and healthy and beautiful....
This was written by one of the staff members in Ethiopia...
"These children have come a long way! We are so proud of them and have loved watching them develop! They are very expressive and fun to play with or just watch! B seems as shocked by the size of his belly as I am, and neither one of us can resist rubbing it! He was so funny today; matching me noise for noise! He would watch my tongue and wiggle his the same way, making the same sound! Y is equally expressive but her beauty makes me take her a little more seriously! Her smile is mesmerizing! B and Y are very much compatible and obviously love each other very much!"
They are 15 months old....B Weight- 20.9 pounds Y Weight- 16.5 pounds
This was written by one of the staff members in Ethiopia...
"These children have come a long way! We are so proud of them and have loved watching them develop! They are very expressive and fun to play with or just watch! B seems as shocked by the size of his belly as I am, and neither one of us can resist rubbing it! He was so funny today; matching me noise for noise! He would watch my tongue and wiggle his the same way, making the same sound! Y is equally expressive but her beauty makes me take her a little more seriously! Her smile is mesmerizing! B and Y are very much compatible and obviously love each other very much!"
They are 15 months old....B Weight- 20.9 pounds Y Weight- 16.5 pounds
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Solio Deo Gloria
***Updated with awesome news of some of our other favorite buddies....Go check out Jana and Michael...they got their referral after 7 long months of waiting!
We have met some amazing people along this adoption journey...God has been amazingly kind to us in the friendships He has brought us and the community He has created for all of our family!
Go check one of our favorite buddies...the Alexanders...who are in Ethiopia right now picking up their son. And as a plus for us all...they have a professional photographer traveling with them so the pictures are beautiful and a must see...
New pets
The kids started school last week. My camera somehow replaced their first day of school pictures with these weird graphics...I have no idea how that happened or what to do about it.
The only pictures that survived are these below...we have new pets. To explain the madness of more pest...we have the awesome school experience where the kids go to a part time school...they go 2 full days a week and I home school the remaining days. As part of our homeschooling this semester we are doing science and art projects. So these pets are more like "projects"...and the learning aspect gives me better motivation to clean fish tanks and hamster cages.
In the pet store Hannah insisted on getting something pink...thus the fish. But getting home she realized the hamster is way cooler and lots more fun...so she is rethinking the pink strategy. A few days ago I caught her walking toward the fish tank with the fish net in her hands. After approaching her she said, "Mom I'm just going to play with my fish" Well, duh! Great idea...fish love to be played with.
The only pictures that survived are these below...we have new pets. To explain the madness of more pest...we have the awesome school experience where the kids go to a part time school...they go 2 full days a week and I home school the remaining days. As part of our homeschooling this semester we are doing science and art projects. So these pets are more like "projects"...and the learning aspect gives me better motivation to clean fish tanks and hamster cages.
In the pet store Hannah insisted on getting something pink...thus the fish. But getting home she realized the hamster is way cooler and lots more fun...so she is rethinking the pink strategy. A few days ago I caught her walking toward the fish tank with the fish net in her hands. After approaching her she said, "Mom I'm just going to play with my fish" Well, duh! Great idea...fish love to be played with.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Peer pressure?
We are blessed with many friends who share our hearts for adoption...yeah!!!! And apparently the men have decided they share a heart for tattoos...yikes! This weekend 3 Daddies permanently displayed their love for their adopted children, the countries in which they were born, and the Savior who has adopted us all (Ephesians 1:5).
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