Nateslittlesister

2011-03-07T14:34:00.000-05:00

Spring is almost here!!!! I can hardly stand it. The anticipation of warmer weather, rain boots, umbrellas, puddle jumping, park playing, picnic eating is just SO close!!! I have never in my life looked so forward to getting out of winter. The walls have been closing in and we are feeling the effects. Come on warm weather, we need you!!

The kids have been doing very well (and so have I). In fact, much much better. There seems to be a 6 month "tread water and survive" period when you add a child to your family. And we were right at 6 months when I no longer felt that "get up and survive the day". 6 months is a loooong time to feel that way - especially through 3 surgeries and a cold, long winter. But, by the grace of God, we made it and I am looking forward to this next chapter.

Nate is doing very well in school. He loves math and spelling the best- and they seem to come the easiest to him. We hardly have to go over his math instructions or spend much time on his spelling words- he just really enjoys those 2 subjects. All the other ones, well, we take it day by day and make our way through the homework. He finishes up his winter soccer season this Saturday and begins baseball on Sunday!!! He can't wait for his first season in machine pitch.

Naomi has started a 6 week intervention preschool program. Basically, in order for her to qualify to enter our public preschool (eith therapy) she has to complete this 6 week period. We are about halfway through then she will hopefully join Norah at her school. Currently all 3 kids are in 3 schools, one all day, one morning and one afternoon. It's a little hectic and but they all seem to enjoy their time at school then their time with me.

Norah is loving her preschool. Her teacher is awesome - fresh out of school and eager to be a good teacher. Her speech therapist is straight from heaven - though she is only suppose to see her twice a week for 25 minutes each, she sees Norah everyday and always has great things to say about her improvement. We really are impressed with his far Norah has come. Last week she learned her "N" sound and is almost able to blow through her mouth (air flow is very difficult to learn after a pallet surgery) it's also hard to teach so we are thankful and very reliant on our therapists.

Joel is in the midst of training for a half marathon!!! 13.1 miles baby. That's a long run!!! If anybody can do it, I KNOW he can and we are so proud of him. Can't wait to see him at the finish line.

I am faithfully (anxiously) stepping out of my comfort zone and starting the training for a full marathon on October. We are raising money for Naomi's Fund - to help bring more orphans home to their forever families. 26.2 miles is a long way. Training is vigorous. It will be hard. I know that, only by the grace of God, I can finish it. Amen and amen.

2011-02-14T13:37:00.001-05:00

Our Sweet Sweet Norah Lei is 3!!!!

Where to begin, seeing as I have left this blog far behind the daily happenings of our lives. Needless to say, we have been so busy and I have felt overwhelmed for the past 6 months - adjusting to 3 children, Joel's fall football schedule, 3 surgeries for the girls, Nate's first grade year....need I continue?? However, I do feel as though I am no longer treading water. I feel like life is slowly catching back up and I have some things back under wraps. Not that I expected life to simply be as it was before we traveled to get our Norah lei - but the change did catch me rather off guard and, 6 months later, I am climbing out of the thick of it :)

Norah turned 3 last Wednesday!!! I totally missed posting about it on the actual day - we had a very busy week last week as we prepared her to exit our First Steps speech program and enter our public school IEP program. Literally she started preschool on her birthday - which was fabulous cause she did not miss a beat in regards to therapy, but it meant a lot of paper chasing for me as I signed off on her previous therapy and into her current routine. But it was all worth it - the nerves and sleepless night I had before she started. I was SO nervous!!!! She did great and has now gone 3 days and walks right in, hangs up her back pack and starts to play. Her teacher seems fabulous and Norah really likes her, so I am counting my blessings and now praying that Naomi gets into the program. We'll find out in a few days when she gets assessed for speech and OT.

Until last week, our family had made it 6 months with no illness!!! Talk about a miracle!!! We all got the nasty cold, cough, etc virus that seems to be going around. It was/is no fun, but truly we are so thankful to have made the fall and most of winter with our health. Norah's palate is healing beautifully. So far, no perforations and she is back to eating normal. She attempted to blow out her birthday candles - I sat and held my breath in hopes that she could do it. But, alas, she blew them out with her nose - but that's OK cause she has come SO far and we'll get there in time. Air flow is difficult to control for children with palate repairs - we are teaching her the best way we know how. She'll get there!!

Naomi is adjusting well, seeing as she is the only one not loading up a backpack each morning. She really wants to go to school, but for now - until she gets assessed - we are keeping her home. I think she is loving the one on one with me!! I am cherishing this time. One thing Joel and I would LOVE to see change is her morning routine, which starts at 5:30AM everyday. It's so crazy how her sleep has really never been great but we did think as she got older that she would outgrow this early morning thing - and it seems to be getting worse!!! Norah, on the other hand, loves to sleep until 9 or 10 each morning!! Waking her at 8am for school is no small feat, but I think she'll adjust just fine over time.

Nate is doing very well in school. They have a spelling test each week and over the entire first grade year he has only missed ONE word!! He LOVES to spell and has a photographic memory. We are so thankful for his sweet sweet spirit. There is a little boy in his class, how was also in his kindergarten class, who is a bit of a trouble maker. He comes from a tough family situation and shares the words he hears at home with his classmates on a regular basis. Nate's K teacher and current teacher have always placed this little boy next to Nate. Nate often mentions how this little boy hurts hus feelings and bullies him. We have tried to remind him to show the love of Jesus to him and we know the teachers have placed Nate with him because of Nate's sweet spirit - however, Nate has had enough. This week is his parent/teacher conference and Nate is begging us to talk to the teacher and have him moved. We will see what happend. I am so thankful that we have a wonderful public school 2 streets away. We realize there will be these situations throughout our kids' school years, but also know they will be shaped and molded into the image of Jesus - these trials and hardships are part of growing and being challenged. Nate is a wonderful little boy and I look forward to seeing how God will use him throughout his life.

WOW - this might very well be the longest post I have ever sat down to write.

2011-01-16T19:18:00.000-05:00

Macy Lee

Ruby Anne

January 13 was a very exciting day for our family!!! Two of Joel's sisters went into labor and delivered 12 hours apart!!!! These precious girls share a birthday and have a forever bond. From our perspective, it was a whirlwind of emotions and one of the most adrenaline filled 24 hours we have had in a very very (if ever) long time. To serve a God who orchestrated such perfect timing is beyond what I can even fathom. Amazing day.

I was honored to be asked to be in the delivery room for Ruby, however, somehow I missed 2 phone calls and 2 texts letting me know it was time to be there (it was the middle of the night). I was more than bummed and so frustrated that technology failed during such a crucial time. But I trust that there was a reason for my absence and am thankful Ruby arrived healthy and it was a smooth delivery. While at the hospital visiting sweet Ruby, Joel's little sister called to say she was in fact in labor and was being admitted. WHAT!?!?!??!? Yep, that's right, they were gonna deliver that day!! She knew I was pretty bummed for missing Ruby's delivery and invited me to be in for Macy's birth....what.an.honor. I barely made it in time and Macy arrived after only 2 contractions.....amazing, breath-taking, never-will-forget-the-rest-of-my-life moment. God is so good and amazing and perfect and to see His creation from the moment she enters our world makes me even more in awe of His goodness and mercy and power.

What a day, what a day - and now we get to love on and nurture and spoil these two precious lives.

2011-01-11T14:25:00.000-05:00

We're still here!!!!! Cannot believe I have gone this long without posting!!!! I LOVE catching up on my favorite blogs and I feel so bad that I have neglected ours. BUT, that said, it has been quite busy with Christmas break, snow days, follow up doctors appointments and yet more snow days. I simply cannot find the time right now to say all I want to say and share all I want to share. And believe me, there is A LOT to share - this journey has been hard and awesome all wrapped into one. Norah has been in our arms for 5 months now. My mom has been with Jesus for 6 months. Norah is now about 7 weeks post op. Naomi is 4 weeks post op. It's a new year, girls are healed, Nate is growing up way too fast - so we are trying to make the best of this time. As hard as most of our days are, I know they are short lived.
I actually had a very flattering and tempting job offer this week. Like, a real paying job - including payment for childcare. I wanted it. But after talking to Joel and thinking and praying through the logistics, it simply is not the right time. A break sounds lovely most days. But, the girls need me home for now. Next fall we may reconsider and see where we are at - but for now, I am home. :) And happy. :)
Happy 1-11-11!!!!!!!

2010-12-15T14:12:00.000-05:00

Still here??

Anyone still out there?? So muchhas been going on, and our blog has taken back seat to it all. But, alas, I sit here in total quietness and have the chance to play catch up.

The girls are napping in the same room for the FIRST time as I type this!!! I can't decide if we'll make it permanent yet or not. It is sweet to hear them play and giggle, but Norah has never been out of a crib and I am not sure she understands the whole "stay in bed" concept quite yet. We'll see.

Naomi had her eye surgery this past Monday - it went fabulous. In fact, she did not "need" a lick of pain med. At the suggestion of the surgeon, we gave her some the first few nights, ensuring a solid night's sleep - but she never asked for any or ever complained - not even once - about pain. She is one tough cookie.

Norah is doing fabulous!!!! We are now 3 1/2 weeks post-op and she is eating great, drinking great and sleeping much much better. It took a solid 12 days for her to sleep through the night and eat well. A.long.12.days.and.nights. But we made it, just in time to put Naomi in surgery!!! I can't describe how thankful we are that this chapter is behind us. The girls are so happy today - they have played, giggled, enjoyed a date to Starbucks with me, and are now (attempting) napping TOGETHER!!! I think being in the same room will help them to bond.....at least that's the plan :) I am ready to reclaim our room again. My closet, where Norah's crib is, is a complete and utter disaster - and I typically have to tiptoe around so we are hopeful this works well.

Nate is loving school these days. His sweet teacher does a great job of keeping communication open and lets us know how his days go. He is a spelling champ- he has a test every Friday on 10 words and has gotten 100% on all of them. We are so proud of him. He finishes up his soccer season on Saturday and will start another session in 3 weeks.

We are so excited for 2011. We pray this year brings (much less) fewer trips to the doctor, hospital, etc. We pray our children continue to bond and that we can relax a little and enjoy our new family of 5.

Have a fabulous Christmas!!!!!!

2010-11-28T14:07:00.002-05:00

Where to begin......and not sure where to end this post.
Last Tuesday Norah went in for her cleft surgery repair. The surgery itself went just as planned and they were able to close the entire cleft in one surgery for which we were so thankful! She was suppose to spend 23 hours in the hospital then be discharged. However, she had some troubles - both drinking and vomiting. SO, at the 23 hour mark, we were told it would be another night - getting us out on Thanksgiving. In that moment, I was fine with that - being too nervous to take Norah home when she was not feeling well. But, after a few hours of her proving to us she was starting to feel better, I had them page the surgeon to see if we could be discharged that night. It was a longshot, but worth taking I thought. He came by about 8pm and gave us the green light to head home - on some heavy medications. I was thrilled. Me dear friend Heather was there visiting and took us home (in the cold, pouring rain - thank you Heather!!!!)
That might was fairly uneventful for Norah - we set our alarm (OK, I set ME alarm) to give her the medications on schedule and she typically fell right back to sleep. Then comes the screaming and crying from the monitor....Naomi had fallen trying to get out out of bed. Joel knew something was hurt but we could not quite figure out what she had injured. So, like any good parent, we waited.....24 hours!! The next morning, her little collar bone was swolen and we knew we should take her to the ER - off we went. The tech took 2 images and the second was more than obvious that there was a clear fracture. Poor Naomi.....I felt horrible and then explained to the very nice ER doctor about Norah and he was understanding and encouraging that we did nothing wrong by waiting.
Friday evening, Norah started taking a lil turn for the worse - very very fussy and agitated and did.not.sleep.....we were not sure what to think so I called the surgeon the next morning and he assured us that day 3 is by far the worst and she should be slowly improving over the next few days - and as you can tell from the above pictures, she is slowly but surely starting to come around. Thankful is an understatement.

While the house is quiet and the girls are napping, I am off to catch up on laundry and maybe steal a quick nap if I can....
Have a great week
Merry Christmas Season!!!!

2010-11-15T14:02:00.002-05:00

8 days.....
We are 8 days away from Norah's palate surgery. Understandably, on some ways I am ready to get it over with and in others I dread the day like the plague. Norah has come SO far since being placed in our arms, and our prayer and hope is that this only bonds us further and helps her development (physically, emotionally, etc) and does not hinder it. We trust this is is God's perfect timing and are putting one foot in front of the other - taking a leap of faith and moving forward. Our sweet friend, Lainie, will not be having her palate surgery the same day as we had originally thought. Our surgeon (we have the same one) has chosen a different course of treatment for her so her surgeries are a little delayed for now.
We have been trying to think of something special that we can get Norah - something to give her while in the hospital. I think we may have found the perfect thing - a stuffed animal that makes sounds. Our awesome speech therapist brought one today and I thought for sure Norah would not take to it, but she LOVED it and played with is almost the whole session. Sounds have been a huge issue since she got her tubes - meaning that she is still learning on how to localize a sound and also realize she is still safe when she hears them (firetrucks, vacuums, blenders, etc). But low and behold, she loved the monkey, so this momma's on a search this week for the perfect one!!
Nate is doing great in school - he loves his teacher and is seeming to really take off academically this year. I am so thankful after a rough kindergarten year.
Naomi has grown up on me - seemingly overnight!!! The girl has given up her paci (well, almost, it is snipped way down), diapers (potty trained!!) and naps....all within 4 weeks!
So, for now - we are moving forward, right into the beautiful holiday season.

2010-11-04T20:41:00.002-04:00

The girls super excited to see their "G Pa".....

Our ladybugs

Our ninja

We had a great weekend chocked full of trick or treating - I think we totalled 7 hours in 3 different locations....over 3 days. This momma was exhausted!! The kids had a blast and once (the girls) they understood the whole ask-for-candy-get-candy-eat-candy - they LOVED it!!
I was a little sad leading up to Halloween as I remember my mom really loved this day. She loved sitting on her front porch and seeing all the kids come and get their pretzels (yep, a healthy alternative). I also have fun memories of my own halloweens and incredible costumes....and I was worried as to how I would deal with the day. But God provides, all the strength I ever need. It was a great evening. The kids, including my brother and his family and my sis-in-law and her family - had a lot of fun. We walked the same path I walked my whole childhood...oh the memories :)
This weekend, I.get.away.by.myself. That's right - by myself!!! Joel is graciously sending me off with some of my girlfriends for a few days to a lakehouse....I.can't.wait. I might even start packing tonight....then again, I am only packing for myself so there's not way it will take long right??
Norah's surgery is fast-approaching....we are 18 days and counting.

2010-10-29T09:17:00.002-04:00

(joel typing) This is a video of Lee-Anne giving her testimony @ church. So proud of you Lee Lee.

2010-10-24T20:16:00.002-04:00

Meet my sweet cousin Darby. She was kind enough to ask me to to take a few photos for her senior portfolio! We had a lot of fun and she is beautiful....:)

It's been a very busy week and I type this at a new level of exhaustion. Raising 3 kids has it's joys and thrills....and challenges - all wrapped up into one :) Nate is busy with school and indoor soccer. Naomi is working hard at potty training and dropping her naps :(. Norah has started speech therapy and nutrician therapy; and this, my friends, is simply small glimpse into the busy days :)

Have a blessed week. (is anyone even reading these posts??)

2010-10-18T14:52:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Naomi Chunyuan!!!
It is so hard to believe she is 3.....and been in our arms for almost 2 whole precious years. We had a small family party this year - complete with a princess bounce castle, a Mulan princess cake and lots of pink balloons. For a few days leading up to her party, Naomi was singing happy birthday then practicing blowing our her candles - sure enough, when the time came and real candles were lit, she refused - so her big brother stepped in and gladly blew them out for her.
This year, Naomi:
1. started talking, even made short sentences.
2. became a big sister!!
3. has grown over 2 shoe sizes
4. has enough hair for 2 cute little ponies
5. gone from a crib to a big girl bed
6. as of last week, given up her dearly loved paci
7. almost said goodbye to diapers :)

We love you sweet girl!!!

2010-10-10T16:06:00.000-04:00

One blessed weekend....(Naomi took this first shot!!, a future photographer??)

2010-09-27T14:18:00.002-04:00

A quick update on this morning...
Norah did great!!!! We were on our way downtown by 6:30am and home by 8:30am. It was such a quick procedure and Norah did SO WELL!!!! The nurse gave her Versed as soon as we went back to help relax her and make her feel "loopy" and that she DID!!!! The picture was taken by our dear friend Heather, who's daughter Lainie had her tubes placed right after Norah. We hung out together before both girls went back, and laughed our heads off at how funny our girls were being- they were laughing, batting the air, restless then limp....it truly was a sight!!! We also got to meet with our surgeon (who happened to be there for other cases) for the palate surgery. He did confirm that he wanted Norah to meet with one more specialist (the one who will decide on the orthodontic device). We are still on course for November 23.
Thank you for your prayers and encouragement.

2010-09-26T14:38:00.002-04:00

Sweet Norah Lei

...is scheduled for surgery both tomorrow and Nov 23. Tomorrow she is having tubes placed in both ears. We discovered this past week that she has 40-50% hearing loss. We are prayerful that the tubes will improve that significantly. There is a chance that some of that might be permanent as she has gone so long with her ears being full of fluid. It is a very minimal procedure and we will likely be home before Nate leaves for school!!! Norah is the first case of the day and Lainie, our sweet friend, is the case right after her.
November 23, 2 days before Thanksgiving, Norah (and Lainie) will have her palate surgery - with the intent of closing it up all in one procedure. This is a more invasive surgery, will be quite painful, and will also be an inpatient stay (one night, assuming all goes well). We were really hoping for an October date, but the schedule is full so this was the first available. There is also a small chance that they will bump it out even further as we are going to try an orthodontic device to help shift the two clefts in better alignment. Most kids that have this appliance are less than 12 months old and tolerate it just fine. Our hesitancy is that Norah will want to take it out all the time and thus it won't be effective. We are going to visit with this specialist this week and make a decision from there. Aligning the clefts now, before the palate surgery, makes things a little easier down the road as we look at further procedures when she is 6, 8, 10, 12.
It is a gorgeous day here. I feel like today has been such an encouragement to me. Maybe it was the Pumpkin Spice Latte (first of the season!!) or maybe that Naomi went on the potty all on her own for the first time, but I feel rejuvinated. Joel is gone all day with 4 back to back football games, so the kids and I are headed to a park later on.
Enjoy your Sunday!! Have a blessed week :)

2010-09-24T13:59:00.002-04:00

The men in my life....
Today is a day worth celebrating!!!! Joel is turning 35 and Nate became a "Fenwick" 6 years ago today!! I'll never forget that moment, sitting in the courtroom with our 6 month old precious bundle on our laps. It was highly emotional and we were surrounded by our family as we took an oath and became THE parents of Nater-Bug......God was present in that room, and continues to be the focus of our family. As we have raised Nate (and now 2 sweet girls) our prayer over him has been that he understand and accept the love of Jesus and someday surrender his life to the One who gave His life for him. Nate is such a sweet kid with a heart of gold, an awesome big brother and great athlete. We have been blessed beyond measure!!!!!! There are jewels being prepared in Heaven for his incredible birthmom, whom we have grown to love and cannot wait to see again someday. She has such a heart for Jesus and loves Nate so much. We could not have asked for a more perfect extension of our family. We love you M!!!!!
Joel, my best friend. We have been through the testing as we have added 2 children within 2 years. Life has been crazy, hectic, busy, sleepless, tight budgeted, paper-chasing, a roller coaster of emotions, full of grief as we lost mom, and now as we settle in - full of blessings and hugs and smiles and snuggles (well, and still some stress and tears and sleepless nights, but fewer and fewer as we nestle in). I love you more than I could ever express. You are such a man of God, especially when I am not at my best. Thank you for reflecting His love on our family. I love you.

2010-09-19T21:06:00.002-04:00

As I type, the house is quiet and I feel as though I am coming up for air, for the first time all weekend. I am still (daily, hourly for that matter) adjusting to raising 3 kids, 2 the same age. There are moments of pure bliss - like when the girls are playing together without crying or arguing. Then, there (way more right now) moments when I want to run and hide in my closet. Life is busy and unpredictable - 2 things my personality does not often deal well with. But I trust in One who made ME and made each of our beautiful children and His timing is perfect. I know He will supply all my needs. I pray for "my daily bread" and know He will see me through even the hardest of moments.
I miss my mom - more and more each day. Grieving has been a challenge seeing as we left 3 weeks after she passed to adopt Norah. But, again, I know where she is and who she is with - and I could not be happier - for her. As my heart continues to heal and move forward, I pray the Lord will use my grief to help others. Please join me in praying for my stepdad, her husband of 26 years. The loneliness and reality of life as a widower is setting in and he is sad.
I read an incredible book this weekend. Actually, I read the entire thing in less than 24 hours. It is Mary Beth Chapman's new book, Choosing to SEE. I don't recommend books very often, but I think everyone needs to read this. It was so inspiring, insightful, encouraging, and gut-wrenching real. You can order it here.
I hope you have a blessed week.

2010-09-16T21:27:00.002-04:00

I am so happy to report that our visit to Cincinnati Childrens Hospital was encouraging and we left the hospital with the decision to wait in any testing. Norah's small size and delays could very well be related to her prior surroundings and we don't want to get ahead of ourselves. In 6 months, if we are not seeing the progress we are hoping for (completely directed by her therapists) then we will proceed with another trip to Cinci and go from there. We are prayerful that she will make great strides over the next 6 months and that by her third birthday she will have caught up developmentally, socially and physically. If however, it takes longer, we already have a program set up for her to continue daily therapy.
Today I dedicated the morning to teaching Norah how to go down stairs. We have a 2 story home with a basement and we are constantly up and down both flights of stairs. Norah has started getting brave lately so I thought it best to go ahead and teach her how to go down backwards. We are a little concerned as her muscle tone is quite low and she really can't catch herself once she starts falling backwards - but we have to start somewhere. Another goal I have over the next few weeks is to teach her to spoon feed herself. Our therapists will soon be on board and we will likely have a therapist who can assist with this, but I am ready for her to gain some independence. She sees her siblings eating and I know she desires to be more independent. One step at a time. We have only been home 3.5 weeks and I have to step back daily and remind myself of how far she has come already. But, on the same note, we have so far to go and I can't help but see that.
We have a lot on our plate this weekend!!! Here's to a good night's rest.

2010-09-14T21:27:00.002-04:00

Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words.....and this one represents so much. Naomi has never been a fan of dressing up, in any fashion. Last Halloween, her first, she did not care for any of the (many) costumes we tried. And since then we have tried over and over for her to dress up. Today was a breakthrough. I pulled out the dress and she put it right on -saying princess over and over. It was precious. I grabbed the camera a took as many photos as I could - little did I know, it only was gonna last 4 minutes. Then it came off, it was too "itchy".
So hard to believe she will be 3 in a matter of weeks. She has been in our arms for almost 2 years and has come so far. To hear her sweet voice talk and pronounce words and even some sentences has been so nice! The meltdowns are fewer and the progress she has made encourages us with Norah, knowing she will soon be talking and able to communicate better.
Some days are.....well, hard. And today would qualify as one of those. But I am thankful that the Lord's mercies are new each morning and that tomorrow the sun will rise and thus begin a new day. Off to bed....sleep well. Sweet dreams!!

2010-09-13T13:32:00.002-04:00

I love Fall. It brings beautiful weather, jeans and sweatshirts and lots and lots of football. The weather has been awesome this past weekend and we were outside as much as possible.
The kids are all 3 doing so well! This past weekend, Joel had 6 football games and so, needless to say, he was gone a lot - but the kids did great and we hung around here most of the weekend - between Nate not feeling too well and Naomi potty training, it was a bit of a long 3 days. But there were glimpses of happiness throughout the weekend that made it all worth it. The girls are bonding more and more each day. They even played together in the bathtub yesterday, sharing water bottles and being silly and laughing. It was a site to behold - seeing as mot of the time they are wanting my lap or the same toy and there are typically lots of tears. Norah is also really taking to Nate. Its so sweet to see him love on her or offer to hold her and she goes right to him. I pray their relationship is one that is always protective and close. Norah is still having some issues with eating and we have had a few instances these past 4 days or so that remind us how far we have to go. She tends to get food stuck in the open part of her palate and is not sure what to do. To be honest, we are not either. We have tried giving her a drink, feeding her a little more to help her work it out, holding her, etc. Once she gets worked up, she stays worked up for upwards of 3o minutes. When we are out to eat, this can be very difficult. We meet with another surgeon next week and are ready to schedule the surgery as soon as we can. We feel she will thrive once her palate it closed and she can eat normally. All that said, she is a great sleeper and loves to sleep in!!!! Today she rolled out bed at 9:30. I had time to get ready myself, get Nate ready for school, make a nice breakfast and clean the kids rooms before she woke up - making for a great start to the week.
Wednesday we head to Cincinnati for Norah to see a geneticist. They will evaluate her and determine whether or not to order testing for any syndromes related to cleft lip/palate children. We are not overly concerned, but due to her delays we are moving forward with the appointment and will go from there. Norah and I are also heading to the GAP outlet - this girl has hardly any clothes. I had bought ahead all last winter for her, but bought 24 month clothing - and she is only in 12-18 month right now. SO I am looking forward to some great bargains!!!
Have a blessed week. I'll post after our Cinci appoitment.

2010-09-07T20:36:00.002-04:00

Yes, the girls are pushing a gift bag and an over-sized bear....and they are being "sisters", following each other around the dining room table pushing their strollers, laughing at each other, fighting over "nothing", hugging and saying sorry (well, Naomi does all the talking.
This week Nate started soccer and he scored a goal!!!! It was so fun to see his reaction and he could not wait to tell Joel, who was gone at a football game. Naomi has started singing "You are my Sunshine" and it is absolutely precious. We have sung it over 10 times today and I never get tired of hearing her sweet (on-pitch) voice. Norah is now feeding herself when there is food she can eat. She is also a lot more outgoing, a little more moody (that's good, she shows it!!!), and she 100% not a morning person (just like her momma) - on days we do not have plans, she sleeps til 9 or 9:30 :)
Life is good...we are still adjusting and have a long way to go. We realize that. But we are settling in. God is good.

2010-09-03T14:03:00.003-04:00

Sweet Bethel

I'll never forget the look on my dear friend Sally's face as she came into Bible Study with pictures of her new children - her 2 referrals from Ethiopia. We were like school girls, screaming with excitement and passing the photos around. Sally and her husband had waited for so long, prayed diligently and finally the time had come. The Lord had brought 2 precious lives into their hearts. Over the summer, Bethel, at only 4 months old, had gotten sick and became malnourished. Moved from one hospital to the next, one formula to the next, and finally out of the hospital to a new orphanage - she simply had lost the strength to fight. Down to a mere 6 pounds, Bethel went to be with Jesus on September 1. Oh the tears that have flowed since that phone call. Sweet, sweet Bethel, whom her mommy and daddy loved with all their hearts - we all did. The continuous fight they gave to keep her alive and help her thrive until they could wrap their arms around her was one I admired and I believe it brought orphan awareness to the surface for all those who were touched by them.
But the Lord had different plans for Bethel's life. Those plans we may never fully understand on this side of heaven. But one thing's for sure - Bethel, even in her short life on earth, had purpose. Her legacy will live on for many many years to come. May her life bring a new passion to orphan adoption - one that lights a whole new fire in our community. Are you called to adopt? Are you called to support those in the process? Are you called to get on your knees to pray for orphans around the world?
Please say a prayer for Michael, Sally and their 3 children, that God would bless them in such a time as this.
Bethel, we love you sweet girl!!

2010-08-29T15:57:00.002-04:00

I am so thankful to say that daily, we are seeing progress as we mold as a new family of five. Fall brings a lot of activities to our schedule, and I was a little worried about this weekend as Joel was starting his season of officiating football. However, I was happily surprised as the kids have done so well TOGETHER. They have loved on each other, hugged when they have hurt each other and Norah's crying (whenever I leave her sight) is becoming less and less. As well, she has not hit anyone who comes within arms reach in the past few days. I think she gets it - we love her, she is here to stay, she will be fed, her needs will be met and she is a Fenwick!
Nate and Naomi are doing well. Prayer, love, extra attention and time have all allowed us to give each other grace as we figure life out. Norah is such a blessing and we have as much to learn from her as she from us - and we are taking life day by day right now.

Happy Sunday. Off to wake up the sleeping girls.

2010-08-25T11:13:00.001-04:00

2010-08-23T14:24:00.002-04:00

See that SMILE!!!!! We have waited so long to see Norah express happiness, and it totally made our morning to hear her wake up on her own (without crying) and then have such a fun-loving morning!! We saw our (wonderful) pediatrician this morning and Norah had a good check-up. We will be having further medical testing in the near future, but for now will work on helping her gain some weight (can you believe Norah and Naomi are only 3 1/2 months apart??). She only cried a little and was waving and giving high fives as we were checking out - she has turned a corner!!
Today while I only had Norah, I ran a few errands and she rode in a stroller and a shopping cart both for the first time and never fussed a bit! She laughed in the cart, loving her independence yet being able to see me at the same time :)
The girls are both napping and Nate is at school. I am appreciating some quiet time and the ability to get some things done. Just had to take a moment and share such positive words and these priceless pictures I have been DYING to take!!!! (you know, the ones where all the children are happy at one time)
We are so thankful for all the prayers and words of encouragement. This has been a long journey - hard at times and joyous at others. Thank you for following alongside and being there with us.

2010-08-21T14:54:00.002-04:00

Family of five

My stepdad Roger

Fenwicks and Daniels

Julie :)

We are home!!!!!!! As I type, both girls are sound asleep, enjoying a nice afternoon nap. nate is snuggled up to me on the couch and the first day as a family of five is going rather smoothly. Norah only slept 20-30 minutes of the entire 23 hour adventure home, so needless to say she was exhausted lastnight and went right to sleep, making it all the way through the night!!! We all slept well and feel great. Jet lag has a tendancy to sneak up on you, so I am anticipating some fatigue over the next few weeks, but am so grateful we are having such a smooth first day.
Norah is not so sure about these 2 sweet, fun-loving (bigger) siblings who keep wanting to hug her all the time. She is still warming up to her daddy, but has been in my arms less today than the previous few weeks. It won't be long until she feels comfortable and secure. We all look forward to that day :)
Our airport welcome was incredible. Julie took all these beautiful pictures and these are only a few of SEVERAL I had to choose from for this post. We feel so blessed and so loved.
Thank you for following us on this journey. If you feel led to move forward with adoption, I'd love to chat. There are "Norah's" all over this world.

2010-08-18T08:53:00.002-04:00

This image pretty much sums up my day. Though it ended good -with Norah laughing and IN Joel's arms for the first time without crying - it was a very long day. Norah is starting to feel more comfortable in our arms and with her surroundings - and therefore has thrown a few temper tantrums today - IN PUBLIC, where I don't speak the language and it was so hard. I ended up spending most of the morning and early afternoon in our room with Norah- she feels so comfortable here and is willing to walk around and play. If we go out of the room, she is in my arms 100% of the time still. We talked to our guide today about her unwillingness to go to Joel and she suggested a few things, all of which we are trying. Tonight she went to him, only for a few seconds, but SMILED!!! Baby steps.
Things I will miss:
*all my meals being made for me
*my bed being made and the room being cleaned everyday :)
*our awesome travel group
*shopping for next-to-nothing prices
*7-11 slurpees
*the "laser" guy we run into each night

So here it is, my last post from Guangzhou!!!!!
Night night

2010-08-17T03:18:00.002-04:00

Red Couch Picture

Today our travel group took the infamous red couch pictures - pictures of our girls in traditional chinese dresses on a red couch in a beautiful hotel here in the island. You can view them all via the link below, but here is the best one we got of Norah - this is on the floor next to the red couch - before she completely melted down and cried her little heart out for the rest of the shots we took. Oh well, makes for fun memories.
Today, while Norah napped, I went to the open market all by myself. I had found some cute clothes (for me, you know, everything over here fits me so well) for dirt cheap, like less then $3 each. So I high-tailed it over there to see if I could find a few more things. It was such a neat experience - all the spices, animals, clothing, luggage, etc for sale. And boy was it ever so crowded!!
Tonight we are heading back to Lucys, the restaurant here on the island. We have so loved our travel group - it becomes interesting around meal times when you have 6 2 year old girls together :):) I also hope to finish up shopping for items I am purchasing for the November Naomi's Fund celebration (at Southeast Christian Church - dates and details to come).
We miss our kids so much. Only 3 days!!!
Pictures

2010-08-16T09:19:00.002-04:00

Only 4 days left....

I am starting to countdown til we land in the US!! Today has been another great day, I am just missing our kids and ready to be a family of 5. I will say, in talking with Heather today, that we are appreciative of this time - though it seems long and drawn out -we are making strides everyday with our new little ones. This time, when no phones are ringing, no laundry has to be washed, no other children need to be tended to, our husbands are by our sides, and our meals are all cooked for us - is valuable and we are doing our best to make every effort to make it count.
Tonight, on our way back from dinner, Norah was walking and holding my hand - Joel reached out and offered his to her other hand and SHE TOOK HIS HAND.....may seem like such a small step, but it was huge to us. We have worked so hard to earn her trust and show her love and even the baby steps are huge to us.
I am still a little under the weather and by the end of the day I have no voice left or energy for that matter. Hard to be sick away from home but I am honestly so thankful it is not any worse. 4 days and counting....
Nate and Naomi, we love you dearly!!!!! We enjoyed finding special gifts for both of you today!!!!! Can't wait to squeeze you tight. Until then, enjoy hugs from Mr Eric and Ms Kristi. We love you :)
Pictures

2010-08-15T03:09:00.003-04:00

Today has been a good day. It is so fun to watch Norah come out of her "shell" more and more each day. In public, she still tends to be quite shy and prefers to be in my arms; but in our hotel room, she has become so much more playful and loves to laugh with her daddy!! She has yet to let him hold her, but it won't be long til she has him wrapped around her little pinkie. He longs to scoop her up and give her kisses, and I know it has got to be tough to see her resistance, but we know this will only last a very short time.
A few little things we have noticed about Norah:
- she is quite shy
- she has dimples in her cheeks when she smiles
- she LOVES to hold small items in her hands, yesterday she held a comb for 5 hours straight
- she has the sweetest brown eyes and loves to play games with them (winking)
- she loves to have her feet rubbed and that has become a nightly ritual
- she is a very brave little girl
- we could not feel more blessed, having 3 beautiful children

Nate and Naomi, we miss you SO much! Only 5 more days and we will BE HOME!!!! We love you, Daddy and Mommy
Pictures

2010-08-14T04:35:00.002-04:00

Today was our medical check up - which was exhausting and hard.....we went room to room, seeing doctor after doctor (or nurse). Norah had to have an ultrasound because her belly was enlarged and hard. We were concerned of possible liver disease, but the ultrasound (thankfully) confirmed her liver is normal. We are still trying to solve the mystery of her enlarged belly, but are so thankful we were able to move right through the medical clinic, getting a clean bill of health. She had to get 5 immunizations, but quickly calmed down and took a nice nap this afternoon.
We are SOOOOOO thankful to be with our dear friends Brian and Heather and some new friends we are getting to know!! What a HUGE difference this has made as we start the second week of our journey.
Please pray that Norah's belly starts to feel better and that she can process her food well.....if we can just hang in there until we get home, then we can get her all the medical attention she needs.
Gotta run, Heather is here for a visit!!!
Much love
Pictures:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=197643&id=605614827&l=9783857db9

2010-08-12T23:35:00.002-04:00

Excited for a new adventure, beginning today!!! New post coming soon.

2010-08-12T08:58:00.003-04:00

Giggles and Smiles (lots of firsts today)

2010-08-12T00:58:00.006-04:00

The room is quiet, and I was able to get Norah down for a nap on her own today - a HUGE milestone, as she has been on me for 3 days (bonding) - which is precious in it's own way - but it is also nice to be able to blog for a little bit, eat some lunch and touch base back home. We miss home - and we are only halfway through the trip. On one hand, I'd love to board the next plane to the US. On the other hand, I know the Lord uses this time we are here to help create a lasting bond between us and our Sweet Norah. We have no other demands or priorities right now - in fact - our room is cleaned daily, our laundry is done as needed and all our meals (2 per day) are cooked for us. This allows us to completely focus on Norah. It is a gift.

Norah is doing so well. Everyday is a big improvement from the previous. For the first 2 days she did not walk, talk, point, crawl, eat, drink, or really even move. We were at a loss as to how to best take care of her. She was dehydrated and had some stomach problems.....we prayed, asked for prayer back home, and are so thankful that day 3 she turned a corner. She began eating and gained some strength, and by that night walked to dinner holding my hand. Now that she is eating, she seems more aware of her surroundings, looks us in the eye a little more and is showing us she is 2 and has the ability and new-found energy to throw quite the tantrum.

Today has been really nice - we had nothing on the schedule. We ate breakfast at the hotel (again, Norah ATE well - congee, oatmeal and mashed bananas), went to a local park for a few hours, then headed back to the hotel for Norah to get some lunch in the room and a nap.

As for eating, we are still trying to figure out how to best feed her. She does not feed herself at all. If we hand her cereal, cookies, crackers, she either holds them or throws them. She will really only eat very mushy foods. She can choke easily, so we are very careful and go slowly. No wonder she is such a lil peanut!!

Joel and I are doing well. This trip has been great for us, and he has been such a servant to me. Norah prefers me right now (though we are always working towards her gaining Joel's trust), so when we are eating meals or needing to go somewhere, Joel has been by my side, serving me in anyway he can. He has also taken care of all of the details of each day - paperwork, money exchanging, finding food for us, running to the 7-11 for more snacks or instant lunches. Truly, I feel so blessed. Even in the hardest of moments -when Norah is quite upset and we cannot sooth her, Joel is right there.....

We have met some really neat people at our hotel. For dinner, we have been eating at the "free" appetizer hour (save every penny we can right now). Each night we go and visit with them. They both work for 7-11 and we were able to share with them what a blessing this convenient store has been to us on our travels to China. In our province for Naomi, it was a lifesaver. As well, this trip it has proven to be consistent and we know when we see the sign that we can go pay fare price for a drink or snack. I got to ask them, as they were literally designing a new slurpee cup lastnight, if the ice blended in with the slurpee was filtered (we cannot drink the water here nor have any ice, due to the parasites). He assured me that the ice was UV treated and that it was safe. BONUS!!!!!! Of course, I already had one and plan to enjoy a few more before we leave. It did wonders for my sore throat today.....

Tomorrow we will leave this hotel and travel about 10 minutes away to another hotel on a small island. There we will meet up with our dear friends, Brian and Heather. We can't wait to see them and meet their lil Lainie Mei! As well, we have been e-mailing back and forth with a few other families and will get to meet them!! Saturday-Wednesday we have appointments, consulate dates and swearing ins (so we can not only bring Norah home, but once she lands on US soil, she automatically becomes a US citizen) and dr visits. The island is full of other american families who have adopted and we are looking forward to meeting them. There are also great shops and restaurants.

I can't believe this post is SO long!!! This shows what great strides we have made today.
For today's pictures:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=197643&id=605614827&l=9783857db9

2010-08-11T07:06:00.000-04:00

might just be my favorite picture......:)

2010-08-11T04:36:00.003-04:00

Our Sweet Norah

As I type, Norah is sitting with me on my lap :) This is where she prefers to be 100% of the time. We are trying to so diligently to reassure her and let her know we are here for good. She is coming around, very very slowly.
Yesterday Norah was not eating or drinking and had what seemed to be a little stomach virus. Lastnight we asked for prayer and are so thankful this morning as she has both eaten and taken small sips of water. Her energy seems a little better today, though she has stood for only a few minutes and has not walked since she walked into our arms on gotcha day. She is sweet as pie - her precious brown eyes and sweet cheeks......we are in love :)
Today has been a great day. We took a cab to the island and met another family who adopted their Eli (see above group photo) from the same orphanage just a week ago. We were told Norah and Eli were the best of buds, but when we got them together, they simply looked at each other off and on....we really enjoyed meeting Eli's parents, siblings and grandparents. It brought us such encouragement to see him and all the strides he has made in such a short time period. We are prayerful Norah makes many of those before we board the plane for home. This afternoon we went and applied for Norah's passport. It only took about 5 minutes then we headed back to the hotel for some more paperwork with our guide. As long as Norah is either in the baby carrier or I am holding her close, she is OK....as soon as I put her down for any reason, it's another story. We are gaining her trust hour by hour - and know she will soon realize how much we really do love her and that she will always be taken care of.
Our praises: Good health for Joel and me, Norah is sleeping well, Norah began eating today, there is a McDonalds close by :):)
We would ask that you pray for: Bonding, continued eating/drinking, paperwork, 5-8 vaccinations on Saturday (required), that our love for Jesus would be evident in all we say and do.

2010-08-09T23:20:00.003-04:00

She is ours!!

We went this morning to finalize Norah's adoption. They asked us very simple and straight forwad questions -our names, our ages, our health status, Norah's chinese name and where she is from (we had to practice all the way there pronouncing it), do we want to adopt her and do we promise not ever abandon, neglect or abuse her. All answers came naturally, and it was a joyous moment!! We got to share the moment with most families that we shared gotcha day with. What an incredible orchestration - to have a life changing moment with so many other families!!!
Gotta keep this short - gotta a fussy one!! :) Much love

2010-08-09T05:42:00.003-04:00

our lives will never be the same.....
2pm August 9, 2010 changed our lives forever when a precious little girl by the name of Lei Xin Qin came walking out from behind a curtain and into our arms. Several moments were spent snuggling and she was quiet as she studied my face. Then some tears came, but the room was hot and there were several (30 or so) other families uniting with their children as well. We have spent the past 4 hours or so bonding, giving a bottle, learning more about her through our guide and the translation of her paperwork. We know she was loved and cared for, but it does weigh on our hearts the past she carries with her. The joy she has brought is indescribable.
We are in love.....
more to come.

2010-08-09T01:13:00.002-04:00

August 9 - waiting to meet our girl!!
We are one big ol ball of nerves right now. We are beyond thankful for the opportunity to adopt Sweet Norah Lei, excited, anxious, nervous and ready....or so we think :):)
Norah Lei - may you know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, how much we love and adore you. More importantly, may you learn and accept how much Jesus loves you. He is the reason you are in our arms and the only hope we have of eternal life. Our prayer for you is that you grow up in full confidence of who you are, a child of God - adopted as His daughter, and ours as well.
Here we go!!!

2010-08-08T06:52:00.002-04:00

A long day today. We left around 11am to go to Guangzhou. We caught the train and made it here without any difficulty at all. We met a wonderful family on the train who are adopting a little boy tomorrow.
Once we got off the train, our day turned a bit negative and the stress and reality of it all weighed heavy on both of us. We called our guide to come pick us up and there apparently was a lack of communication and she had not planned on coming to get us. We started to take a cab but then were stopped by the police. It was a bit scary that we were so close to climbing into the back of an unmarked car. We went back and asked someone where to catch a taxi with a "good" driver, and from there we had no problem getting to our hotel - meaning that we made it here in one piece. China's driving style is unlike anything we have ever seen......
Once we arrived at the hotel, we had a note from our guide explaining tomorrow in detail. It was very exciting to see that we will be on our way at 2pm (2am your time). We ran into a seemingly small glitch with a detail for tomorrow and would ask that you pray over every area of our big day. Can't go into more detail, and we know it will resolve - it added a little more stress into an already stressful day.
Our specific prayer requests:
1 - That Norah will bond with us quickly
2 - That our love for her would be received and welcomed
3 - That all logistical details would go smooth
4 - That God would be glorified

Happy Sunday!!
New pictures: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=197643&id=605614827&l=9783857db9

2010-08-07T10:32:00.005-04:00

Have we mentioned we love SKYPE (see pic)? Lee-Anne has been asleep since 9 pm and I'm down in lobby catching up on email/FB/news.

2010-08-07T08:34:00.003-04:00

August 7 (evening). We had a wonderful day today. Kind of like a 2nd honeymoon. Hong Kong is beautiful and very very clean. Most people speak english and, as we ventured out around town on our own, found that most signs are in english as well. We walked around a beautiful park then took a tram UP (way up) a steep mountainside for a gorgeous view of downtown Hong Kong. Looking forward to going to bed - as I feel like I have been up for days now. To see pictures, click on the link below.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=197643&id=605614827&l=9783857db9

2010-08-06T18:40:00.002-04:00

While I am typing the first part of this post –we are in the AIR!! We are currently 2 hours into a 16 hour flight – that’s right folks, 16 hours. We thought originally it was going to be 14.5 hours tops, but we got on the plane and were told 16 hours!! And the labor pains begin :) Actually, this has been a coveted time for me – knowing our kids are well cared for (all 3!) and being able to digress and take some deep breaths. There has not been much time for me to really reflect on my mom’s recent death and grieving has been hard – in preparing for such a joyous moment we are only days away from now. I have thought about mom so much in the past few days as I have been running around and finishing last minute details of our trip. I shopped for hairbows for Norah and realized that I had never done that for Naomi, as mom has made every single one. I thought of mom as I would have called her to say goodbye and tell her I love her. And I know she would have had a special handmade gift for sweet Norah when we got home. Thankfully, she had started a little pillowcase dress for her and my aunt was able to finish it (thank you Aunt Cindi!)

So, while we have 14 hours to go and only so many movies, magazines, meals and sleep time, I thought I’d spend time on here – sharing our journey. Thank you for reading, praying and supporting us. Norah is so blessed to have so many who love her already!
The past 24 hours have been a whirlwind of emotions – from happy to sad to exhausted to anxious. Between packing, spending time with our kids, cleaning the house, and making sure all is in place to leave – it was crazy times!!! We dropped the kids off last night at our dear friend, Greg and Becca’s house. They were so excited and, after spending some time with them and having a time of prayer, the kids were ready for us to go! I shed some ugly tears on the way home – I think in part due to grieving, anxiety, lack of sleep and of course missing the kids. There are hard parts to international adoption and I would say leaving our kids for 2 weeks is high on that list. We got home and STARTED packing….yep, we waited until the last minute. And, honestly, that worked well. We were able to finish in record time and got a good night’s rest. This morning we realized that we had forgotten a few tings so I had time to run out and get those items and we were on our way to the airport. We met up with our dear dear friends Brian and Heather – who are also adopting a little girl from China. We spent the first leg of our trip together and enjoyed lunch in Detroit before parting ways. They are touring Beijing and then heading to their province. We will meet again on the 13th and be together for the rest of the trip.
UPDATE – August 6. Well, we have arrived!!! The flight was grueling (keeping it real here). It lasted 16 full hours…..we both agreed that we could not get off the plane fast enough. On the same note, we are grateful it was a smooth ride and there were lots of great movies and yummy meals to keep us occupied :)

I have been up since 3:30am this morning. I waited til 6:30 then got up and scrounged for a snack – I am starving :) I remember very similar sleep patterns when we were here in 2008 for Naomi. Today we are going to explore Hong Kong and enjoy time together. It’s like a 2nd honeymoon right now – perfect timing for all we have been through.

2010-07-31T15:34:00.007-04:00

From the front row of a funeral service to the back row of an airplane on the way to China...all within 3 1/2 weeks! And boy do I mean "back row".....we are flying during peak travel time to China and it was going to be double the ticket cost to sit any closer to the front of the plane. SO, packed in like sardines, we will board the 16 hour flight and, thus, my labor pains will be starting :)
SO hard to believe it has been 3 weeks since the middle of the night phone call and mom's passing. 3.long.weeks. I feel as though I am still recovering physically, emotionally and spiritually - yet we have a HUGE life changing event in 5 days!!!! SO, on we go. Day by day. One foot in front of the other.
We cannot wait for Sweet Norah! Those precious cheeks and sweet brown eyes. We're coming for you!!!!

2010-07-26T12:02:00.006-04:00

China Trip Itinerary (tentative)

8-6-10 (Friday)

Arrive in Hong Kong around 8pm their time

8-7-10 (Saturday)

See Hong Kong

8-8-10 (Sunday)

See Hong Kong/take train in the late afternoon for Guangzhou

8-9-10 (Monday)

Gotcha Day!!!
8-10-10 (Tuesday)

Sign adoption registration

8-11-10 (Wednesday)

applying for passport,

8-12-10 (Thursday)

Local sightseeing

8-13-10 (Friday)

Local sightseeing

8-14-10 (Saturday)

Physical exam and TB test

8-15-10 (Sunday)

Local sightseeing

Finish filling out forms of visa application

8-16-10 (Monday)

Receiving your child’s passport

8-17-10 (Tuesday)

Visa application goes to the American consulate in the morning.

8-18-10 (Wednesday)

Swearing ceremony at the consulate and sign DS-230

8-19-10 (Thursday)

Take train back to Hong Kong

8-20-10 (Friday)

Fly Home!!!!!

2010-07-25T16:35:00.002-04:00

We are movin right along!!! Hard to believe 2 weeks ago I was planning my mom's funeral service and calling all our family and friends; and 2 weeks from now we will be just waking up and preparing to meet our NORAH!!!! Today has been quite emotional in many ways. This is my midpoint between 2 life changing events - one incredibly sad and one of the happiest. My prayer right now is that God would use each moment of each day to heal my heart and prepare for a sweet 2 year old who's life is about to change forever.

The pictures are of Naomi and Evangeline, her cousin 4 weeks older. Yes , we will have 3 girls all the SAME AGE and same grade in school!!!! E spent the night with us this weekend and the girls had a blast. It was fun and felt so natural. Love that girl. She is a mini-me (of her Aunt LeeLee)

I miss my mom. I am sad she won't be at the airport when we land back home. I am sad she won't be dropping in with new little handmade gifts for the kids. I am sad my stepdad is lonely. I am sad my grannie had to bury her child. But I know without a shadow of a doubt where mom is. She is with our Maker.....whole, healthy, happy, complete. That's all the hope I need or could ever want.

One foot in front of the other......

2010-07-19T14:36:00.002-04:00

Before I forget all the events of this past week, I want to take the time to recount each day - for my memory and giving you the opportunity to see God at work in even the hardest of moments.
12:30am on July 10, my stepdad Roger called me from the ER asking me to come right away. Typically (often) when mom goes to the ER, I try my best to come but not always can. Roger made it clear I needed to come right away. In my sleepy state, I told him I was on my way, thinking Joel was home and could stay with the kids. Well, as I walked around the house looking for Joel, I realized he was out of town camping. I started making phone calls and as I was more and more awake, I realized this was serious and that my mom may truly die. I called my aunt, her sister 13 months younger, and she drove straight to the hospital. My brother also went right away. I called Joel's mom and stepdad to come over so I could go, praying and pleading with God to let me see my mom alive one more time. I also called several girlfriends, whose husbands were also on the camping trip, hoping they could wake their husbands and one of them would bring Joel home. After 30-45 minutes of calling all the guy's cell phones, one finally answered and Joel and his buddy Jason were on their way back. It was a 2-2 1/2 hour drive, so again I was pleading with the Lord to keep my mom alive until Joel could make it up to the ICU. As we waited in the ICU waiting room, my dear friend Becca came (2am by now) and so did Jay's wife Lindsay and his buddy Eddy. We also called the SEC minister on call to come and pray with us. He was so kind and we are so thankful he sacrificed sleep to be with us in such a hard time.
The doctor came out a few times, informing us she was continuing to code and that the best heart rate they could get, on 5 BP meds, was 32/20. In my heart I knew.....but there was that glimmer of hope. Finally, after 4 hours of her being unstable, the nurse came out and told us we should come back. Again, I knew......
Seeing my mom, lifeless on the bed - hooked up to all the IV's (4) and seeing the respirator do all the work for her, feeling her cold hands, stroking her blood-stained cheek, I knew....
Somehow the Lord gave me the strength to ask my stepdad and brother if we should simply let her pass, not allowing anymore "codes". We all knew as her heart rate was dropping by the minute, that it was a matter of moments before her heart would stop again. We all agreed that she was not in that body anymore and decided to let her pass in peace, with all of us around her. 2 minutes later her heart beat for the last time. My stepdad, my brother and Lindsay, Joel and I, my aunt and my grannie were all present in the room. It was sad and hard and tears were shed.....but there was a peace that I have never felt before in my life. A peace that my mom was instantaneously whole, healthy, happy and most importantly with Jesus. We spent several moments in her room, crying, hugging, touching her. Then we all went out to the waiting room again and within moments we were in a circle praising God for his goodness, even in the midst of death. I was never in my life more thankful for Jesus than at 4:30am July 10, 2010. His death gave my mom eternal life - knowing this was not the end but only the beginning was all the comfort I needed. I miss her so bad it hurts and knowing she won't be there when we get off the plane from bringing Norah home makes me cry so hard I can barely breath. But my emotional pain is nothing compared to the years of sickness she endured. And now, no more sickness. Praise Jesus.
All day Saturday was spent answering phone calls, sending messages to loved ones and making the arrangements. It's a little bit of a blur but I know God sustained me and I give Him all the glory for carrying me through this valley.
Sunday Joel encouraged me to go to worship with him. Though I was hesitant, feeling so emotionally vulnerable, I decided I would not want to be anywhere else. So we went. I don't remember much of the sermon, but I do remember the 30 minutes of worship we had following the service and, though most of it was sung through painful tears, again I praise God for His Goodness in the midst of my weakness.
Monday we met with our dear friend Dale, who performed the service. We prayed, cried and recalled many memories about mom. We also shared that the most important words Dale could share with our family and friends was the Gospel - and boy did he preach it at the funeral!! So thankful for his God-given ability to share the love of Jesus.
Tuesday we had visitation from 2-8pm and I have no idea now many people came out, but there was never a moment without someone by my side, sharing memories, hugs and tears...many, many tears. Though we had originally planned to close mom's casket, at the last minute we decided to leave it open and I think that was a good decision - a lot of her friends appreciated seeing her and having that time of closure. By the end of the day, I was exhausted but so thankful for each and every person that came. We felt so loved and supported and it was good to see all the different chapters of mom's life represented. It made me sad in a way that I did not know parts of mom's life (she loved to dance, was diva-ish as a child - neither of which I ever knew).
Wednesday was the funeral, the day I dreaded but once it came, I again had a peace that only can come from the Lord. Our friend Donna came to watch the kids and we headed over to the funeral home. My brother and I spoke at the service and we had beautiful music (Brooks). It was a service that honored mom's life and, more importantly, Jesus. It really was everything we could have wanted. Saying our final goodbyes was not easy and as the last song was sung, the painful tears returned. I wanted more than anything for that moment in time to freeze - I did not want to get up from my front row chair, I wanted to stay there forever......but it was time to say goodbye and thank those who came. So we did just that. Our sunday school class provided all the food at my aunts house and we spent several hours there in the afternoon, eating, crying and sharing even more memories. It was so nice to have all my family and most of my dear friends right there. The love of Jesus was all around me.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday we spent cleaning out my moms house. She liked to buy things and save everything, so it took us all 3 days (with lots of folks coming to help) to straighten up the house and make it a nice home for Roger. It was very healing and Jay and I enjoyed seeing some of our childhood toys, pictures and arts and crafts. Though Saturday afternoon brought a level of exhaustion I have never had in my life, I am thankful that we were able to take care of this before boarding the plane to China (19 days from now!!).
My biggest prayer request right now is that God would help to prepare my heart to transition from one of the hardest times in my life to one of the best times. I cannot fathom how I will be able to do this -but God knows, He cares, He loves me and none of these events have caught Him off guard - He knew it was all coming. He will never give me more than I can handle, and I am resting on that promise as I put one foot in front of the other.

2010-07-12T08:33:00.002-04:00

It is with a very heavy heart that I share about our weekend. Friday night (early Saturday morning), my mom Jo Anne, passed away. She had been struggling with a lot of sickness for the past 12 years and 4:30am July 10, her earthly body was traded for a brand new one in Heaven. Though the night was traumatic in many ways, her last breath was peaceful and surrounded by her close family. Praise God she has no more sleepless nights, pain, sadness, shunt mal-functioning, diabetic issues and plain ol' "feeling like crud" days. My tears are simply tears of sadness as we will miss her immensely. There is also a part of me that shares her joy in her new life. I have never been more grateful for Jesus and his death on the cross than at 4:30am Saturday morning. We sat in the ICU waiting room and prayed and thanked God for the hope we have and for Jesus and for the new home Mom has, one of perfection.

Please pray for my stepdad Roger and my little brother Jay as we get through this week and the months and years to come. I get choked up when I think about getting off the plane from China, walking through the gates with our new Norah - and mom not being there to give us a hug and meet Norah. But she will be there in spirit.

2010-07-09T21:09:00.002-04:00

Waiting......
can be so very difficult. I feel like we've been in this state of "waiting" since December.....and, well, because we have. Waiting on our referral then our paperwork to head to China then to hear from grants then for more paperwork to be accepted then to hear back from China then to get approval for Norah and now for our travel approval. One stepping stone to the next. Now that we are on that final stepping stone before the bridge is gapped, it is SO HARD!!!! We want our sweet Norah Lei.
Tonight I took the kids to our Chick Fil A for a free meal tonight - all 3 of us were dressed up like COWS!!! No pictures were taken, as you can imagine it was humiliating :) But we all ate for nothin and it was lots of fun!! For several years now I have walked the mall in the morning, before the stores open. I have met the nicest lady who owns the pearl booth. She is from Hubei China and has really taken to Naomi. We talked tonight about Norah and she reassured me to come and let her talk to her and translate for me. She is very excited for us!!

Our dear Friends Brian and Heather got their TA (travel approval) today. We are hoping and praying we get to travel together and are hopeful we will get our TA next week then we can all book our consulate dates and move forward with our travel arrangements. They have waited for 4 YEARS for their sweet Mei Mei and we could not be more excited for them. What an honor to be on this journey side by side. Both our girls will need surgery when we return home and we'll continue to walk side by side :):)
Have a great weekend. I plan to take some more pictures soon!!! :):) What's a post without some pics??

2010-07-03T22:29:00.002-04:00

Joel and Nater-Bug

An incredible crab Andrew caught - BEAUTIFUL

Needless to say, it took a long time for Naomi to warm up to the sand

Thought I'd share some more pictures from our May vacation, yes I know, it's been months now - but I love looking back and smiling all over again as I remember that week.
Joel is off work all week next week. We are havin a staycation.....not much on the agenda and we love it!! Naomi does have an appointment with her cardiologist and it takes the two of us (and her doctor) to hold her down for the testing.......I always get nervous and a little anxious before these appointments, they truly remind me that her heart is really sick and it makes me sad. But I am thankful for the words in the New Testament in the book of James that tells us to consider it "pure joy" when we face trials of many kinds. Somehow in someway the Lord will redeem her sick little heart - and use it for His glory. That's all the comfort we need.
We are almost 1 week into waiting for our travel approval!!!! Average wait time is 2-3 weeks but I have this feeling it might come Monday - not sure why or where it comes from, but I guess we'll see) , so we have a little bit more time to wait. We have been pricing airline tickets and finalizing our hotel choice. I have not even thought about packing yet......but we'll get there. The girls' room is almost done - pictures soon!!
Happy 4th!!!

2010-06-28T10:18:00.002-04:00

As we all took the weekend to get better from the lovely summer virus that invaded 3 out of 4 of us, I must admit the downtime was nice. NO plans - except one. Joel and Nate joined the rest of the family to celebrate his MawMaw's 84th birthday. She is such an influential part of Joel's life and means the world to us. Isn't she just glowing in these pictures? She adores her grandkids and great-grandkids. Nate goes just about weekly to visit her and help her out. It's precious to see his heart for her and recognize her needs.
We are all on the mend now and are hoping to get out of this house very soon!! I am finishing up the girls' room this week. It is ALMOST done!! Pictures soon :)
Today our Article 5 was picked up and now are on the FINAL wait for our TRAVEL APPROVAL - then we BOOK OUR TICKETS!!!!! Can you believe it, the final stretch........before you know it, we'll be posting FROM CHINA!!

2010-06-24T20:52:00.002-04:00

a low key week....
we are on the mend around here right now. Some horrible bug has invaded 2 of the 4 of us and it has yet to leave fully. Hopefully we'll be better very quickly and back to normal....we, whatever that is.

In adoption news - this coming Monday, June 25, our Article 5 will be picked up and then the process begins for our TRAVEL APPROVAL!!!!!!!! It looks as if we are about 6 weeks or so from travel - give or take. Cannot believe it.

2010-06-20T20:25:00.002-04:00

Happy Fathers Day!!!
We have had a wonderful weekend. Friday night the kids and I gave Joel his gifts, as it was hard for the kids to keep it on the downlow. We were excited to give him some framed photos that we took last week and a few shirts for work. It was fun to see how excited the kids were!
This weekend has been low-key and relaxing. Friday night I went to a surprise shower for our dear friend who is traveling with us to China. They are adopting a precious little girl (from a different province) who will be 2 in September. We told her it was a sleepover and when she walked in we all surprised her!!! It was a great night and we were able to encourage her and love on her. Can't want to meet her sweet Mei Mei!!!
Saturday we went to our local farmers market and walked around. The kids love the samples - I think they think that's all there is to it!! LOL Nate enjoyed an afternoon with his SueSue watching the new Toy Story 3 and we got some things done around the house and even sat and watched an entire movie (The Boys are Back)!!
Today we spent the morning at church, in an incredible worship service then had lunch with Joel's mom and his sisters and our sweet nephews. Tonight we had my dad over for dinner and a little golf watching.
AHHHH. (big sigh) Now we start a little bit of a busy week ahead. Nate is attending a VBS and I have an ever-growing list of errands and things to do. Starting that desire to nest a little. I need to get the girls' room done and go through all their clothes and I want to call our doctor who will be involved with her surgery when we get home - just to touch base and figure out their process. It's beginning to FEEL REAL!!!!!

Have a blessed week

K-LOVE - Selah "Unredeemed" LIVE

2010-06-16T10:26:00.000-04:00

2010-06-16T10:23:00.001-04:00

Sharing some amazing truth this morning. Words I needed to hear and absorb as I wait on His timing for Norah:
The cruelest world
The coldest heart
The deepest wound
The endless dark
The lonely ache
The burning tears
The bitter nights
The wasted years

Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed

For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every lie that gave up hope
We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed

Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But you never know the miracle the Father has in store
Just watch and see
It will not be
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed

Selah

2010-06-13T21:35:00.002-04:00

June 8 would have been Naomi Gould's 6th birthday. We celebrated BIG - with all 6 (7 actually) of the babies that have come home through Naomi's Fund. Our dear dear friends, Andy and Julie, threw a big party (along with our friends Brent and Hollie and their awesome pool) and we had a fabulous day. Don't let the picture above fool you - Naomi was happily floating around in her little ring and swimmies and we ripped her out of the pool for a "quick picture" and she wanted nothing, absolutely nothing, to do with it. She wanted back in the water, where she swam for 3 more hours. The sweet boy in the front is home from Taiwan, just 4 weeks ago. His mommy and daddy are smitten for him and now we are too - after hosting them for the weekend. He was all smiles and happy all the time. He has adjusted so beautifully and thankfully is healthy and happy.
Each one of our 3 adoptions have been so different. I guess it is similar to pregnancy - where each one is simply not the same. Nate's was beautiful and very quick and the excitement was enough to carry us through the home study and legal matters. Not to mention his birthmom and family were incredible and the blessings that came from that (and still do) are more than I can put into words on a blog. Naomi's was wonderful in it's own way -the anticipation of a girl, the excitement of being matched and then traveling and her almost immediate bond to us - incredible. Norah's process has been the hardest. We were matched 3 weeks into the process and with the new Hague requirements in place, we cannot hop on the next plane and bring her home. 7 months later we are still waiting on paperwork and will be waiting for several more weeks. Though we are in the final stretch of waiting, it has not been easy. But in all 3 journeys to our beautiful children, God has been there and sanctified us. We know this is His will and we rest in that. When days are hard and sad and frustrating - we rest in His promises and lean on Him for a new day. Our new day, becoming a family of 5, will be here before we know it. For that we are grateful.

2010-06-11T14:55:00.003-04:00

We are still in vacation mode around here.Our trip to Fripp Island was absolutely the most relaxation we have had in a long time. It was a blessing that we are still hanging onto.
In adoption news, we are well on our way to our TA (travel approval) which is what we need for our CA (consulate appointment) in order to book our tickets and get our Sweet Norah Lei. Our dear friends (who we are hoping to travel with us) got some updated photos of their sweet daughter this week, and it got us all pumped up and WE ARE READY!!! Soon and very soon (likely still August) we will be on that plane. :)
Have a blessed weekend.

2010-05-31T16:39:00.001-04:00

A few more vacation pictures to share. As I have the chance to work on more, I'll continue to post them. :)
Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-30T20:24:00.024-04:00

We were given a gift....a gift of a vacation with dear friends. A week away - from everything. The beach was remote, very little population, a small grocery store and beauty all around us. We spent our days on a remote beach and at a pool, making our meals, having breakfast on the dock, dolphin watching, making sand castles, fishing for our dinner and just "being." What an awesome week, one we needed as a family. The kids had a blast and so did we. It was a sad drive home at the end of the week.; we are so grateful to have been given this opportunity, one we would not have done on our own this year - with the adoption costs and upcoming travel to China.

In adoption news - we are waiting our our US gov't approval - and hopefully will get that Tuesday!!!!! Then we wait for a few more steps then TRAVEL APPROVAL then we book our flights shortly after that date. Possibly late July, likely August!!!!!! WOWzers, I need to start working on the girls' room. :):)

2010-05-18T15:28:00.002-04:00

LOOK WHAT WE GOT!!!!!!!!!
I absolutely LOVE getting e-mails from our agency coordinator - Xiaoq*ng. My heart skipped a beat as I read over the e-mail, read about her new stats (very similar to her last ones, she is a little peanut like her momma) and saw that sweet face :) Her hair is growing and her lip looks beautiful. We are thrilled and now, more than ever, I want to jump on the next plane!!! Come on 800A approval, cabling, and TA!!!!!! We are ready.
This past weekend I enjoyed a 3 day retreat in Tennessee with some dear friends/adoptive mommas. We shared about our experiences, our children, our fears, our hopes and dreams for our children. We prayed over the adoption ministry we are forming and started the leg work to bless many adoptive families in our community. This is only the beginning of a vision we have to minister to orphans around the world, adoptive families, and the adoption process. It was super refreshing to have a few days to myself, away from the daily tasks of mothering, to think, process, pray, eat, sleep, hike, eat some more, sleep some more, etc. I was so thankful to come home a new momma. Now to get to work and carry out the vision God has given us.

Currently we are waiting to receive our approval from the US government (800A), then we get "cabled" to China, then we receive our travel approval (TA), then we book our flight once our consulate appointment is scheduled. 12 weeks-ish.

2010-05-11T14:15:00.002-04:00

I had a wonderful mothers day. Though Naomi was not feeling well with a fever, she was in great spirits and Joel and I relished the cuddle time we got. She typically is on the move, so having her snuggle up to us with her "patis" and blanket was nice. Nate and I went to church together then Joel and Nate went to his moms for lunch then Nate and I went to my family's get together. A lot of tag teaming but it was worth it. Joel and the kids surprised me for dinner and we went out - a huge treat these days. We then headed over to the airport to welcome home some friends who returned with their son from Ethiopia. It was emotional and got me all pumped up about our trip and our own "airport moment" when we got off the plane and see our kids and family and friends (with Norah in our arms) for the first time!!! If you cant see it (which I doubt you can) my necklace was a birthday gift from my mom -it was handmade and has all 3 kids' names on it. I love it!! It was made by Lisa Leonard Designs on Etsy.
Today we mail back our Letter of Approval (LOA) then that will start the process for more paperwork - THEN 8-10 weeks later we will receive our Travel Approval and board that plane!!! Soon and very soon :)

2010-05-10T17:09:00.002-04:00

Why are we so happy that we are licking our window????? WE GOT OUR LOA!!!!!!!!!! The next BIG step is OUT OF THE WAY!!!!!!!! Norah here we come sweet girl!!!!! (After, if course, we receive our Travel Approval and Consulate Date - a few more hurdles and months to wait). SO thankful for answered prayer and peace in the waiting.

2010-05-06T13:40:00.011-04:00

Today we had a playdate with some new friends. Sweet Sophie and her mom had us over to play, talk and encourage one another. We have all 4 come home with our sweet girls within the past 18 months. Each girl has been such a blessing and has also had a few things to work through - eating, sleeping, sharing, etc. It was so nice to be able to share honestly about our struggles and desires for our girls. It was also adorable to see them all playing together. We are planning to meet every other week and include others as they come home with their sweet girls soon.

Sophie, Caroline and Lydia - Naomi loved meeting you today!!!

2010-04-29T13:09:00.002-04:00

I'm usually not one to brag.....

But my man finished a mini-marathon this past weekend and I am so proud of him! Months of training, conditioning, dieting paid off at that finish line!! I was so emotional. This was the only half-way decent picture I got cause of where I was standing and how many runners there were.

It's Derby Week here in Louisville. We love it! Hoping to get to the parade today if we can pack it all up and make it in time.
No news in the paperwork. Still waiting on our LOA. It's been 35 days. Longest it would be is 40 more days, soonest could be anyday. We'd love "anyday".

2010-04-27T14:08:00.002-04:00

Take me out to the ballgame....
tonight is Nate's first baseball game of the season. Though it has been rainy and cool today - it looks as if it will happen. He is so excited!! Nate + sports is a match made in Heaven. He thrives on any physical activity.
Tonight I am leaving to surprise some friends....in another city! I'll post more when I am home- in case they read this :)
We are now at Day 34 of our wait for our LOA - it could not come any faster.....this week is rumored to be a week of action - meaning we should be receiving some LOA's soon. Maybe our will have made it in this stack, we'll see.

2010-04-16T14:08:00.003-04:00

You may not be able to see Naomi's new infatuation...can you guess?? DANDELIONS!!!! She loves them and stops for e.v.e.r.y. single one.....to pull, smell and place in her "bouquet". ALL girl, for SURE......

2010-04-03T10:01:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-04-02T22:08:00.002-04:00

6 years old today.......
We are so thankful for Nate. He has been such a blessing to us and to think 6 years have passed since we first held him in our arms - bitter sweet.
Nate's birth family has been incredible. We have been so blessed to have them as our extended family. From the very first time we met until today, it has been nothing but positive, encouraging, and God-honoring communication. What an awesome God we serve, to give us such a gift. We look so forward to the day, when the timing is right, for our families to be united again.
Tonight we had all our immediate family over for dinner. Nate could not wait to see everyone. He was excited all day!! He chose cinnamon rolls over the traditional cake and they were very tasty! He got to play with all his cousins, blow out the candles on a HUGE tray of cinnamon rolls, and play his new gift. What a fun day.

It would only be appropriate to end this day reflecting on Jesus. Today as we honor Good Friday, we cannot express enough our gratitude for his death on the cross. To God be the glory. He is our only hope. He is our salvation. And we are forever, eternally grateful. Even more grateful to celebrate EASTER and the hope that He brought. Looking forward to being a part of our church's Easter services this weekend. Joel has daddy duty all weekend, as I will be there the majority of Saturday and Sunday.

Have a blessed Easter.

2010-03-31T13:40:00.002-04:00

Meet Justus Alazar Eubanks
Born March 31, 2010
8 lbs 4 ounces of sweet baby-ness

A miracle from conception - being told twice that he likely would not survive in utero - and now - perfect and precious and ready to conquer this world :)

2010-03-26T13:23:00.005-04:00

the hat....

only lasts a few minutes at a time, but oh so worth every single penny :)

Today marks 30 days in a row for Nate staying in the "blue zone" at school, the zone you want to be in. We are celebrating tonight at the dollar movies and Wendy's - his choice.

Looking forward to a great weekend. Joel is training for a mini-marathon and has a big run tomorrow, then we are off to celebrate a good friend turning the big 4-0!!!!!!!! Looking forward to that. Have a great weekend!

2010-03-25T16:47:00.002-04:00

LID 3.25.10

Whoo-hoo!!!!!

This little guy is just months away from having another sweet sister...and only days away from celebrating his birthday!!!!! Those eyes....so sweet.

2010-03-24T13:05:00.002-04:00

We are hopeful
....that today is our LID (log in date) in China. After watching families who have gone before us, we are calculating that today should be the day. We may not know for a few more days, as China does not contact us to let us know - our agency calls them to confirm. Once we have LID, the official wait and countdown begins. Looks like about 70-ish days from LID that we will got our Letter of Approval (LOA) then 2-6 weeks from then our Travel Approval (TA), when we start booking flights and making arrangements!!! SO, about 4 months from LID we are hopeful to be ON A PLANE......August-ish.

It's a beautiful day today. As I type, the windows are open, the birds are singing and Naomi is doing her best to fall asleep for a little rest before we go get Nate from school.

Doin' a little spring cleaning today and it was kind of fun to think about the fact that when we bring all our winter coats out again next winter, NORAH WILL BE HOME......:):) My heart is smiling.

Praying today is another step closer to Norah Lei.....:):)

2010-03-23T21:08:00.000-04:00

Sweet moments need not a word.........

2010-03-17T18:34:00.002-04:00

Happy Saint Patricks Day!!! Wish I could say we have spent the day making green pancakes and donning our best green outfit; however, Nate has come down with a bad stomach bug and we have spent the day caring for him and making sure he has all he needs. Thankfully, this evening he seems to be perking up a bit and even has an appetite.
I love this photo - Joel's sister, Kelly, took it several weeks ago. Sue Sue loves her kiddos with all her heart - can you tell?? We are actually missing a few additional cousins here. Someday we will attempt a photo of her with 6 (almost 7!!) of them.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!!!

2010-03-15T14:54:00.002-04:00

And now the waiting begins.....
Now that we have our DTC behind us (Dossier - paperwork - to China)....the wait officially begins for us - a HUGE sigh of relief. We now are waiting for all our paperwork to get logged into China's system, and we estimate an LID (log in date) of March 24. IF we then get a LOA (letter of approval for Norah) 75 days later, that would place us in early June and then a TA (travel approval) mid-late June and travel shortly thereafter....July/August. I know lots of letters and dates....we count down from one to the next with minimal paperwork before we travel. SO, lots of waiting, praying, dreaming, matching-clothes-shopping, celebrating each milestone :)
Just this past week, the referral system for special needs changed once again and you now have to have a LID (log in date, which we do not have yet) in order to receive a referral. God's perfect timing once again - assuring us that we started the process in time to receive Norah, even though we are still not logged in. WHAT A BLESSING and we are so thankful. Though it has been a much, much more emotional journey of getting our paperwork completed, the total amount of time for the whole process (application to travel) will only be a total of 9 months (at the most). What else is the gestation of 9 months - yep that's right, a pregnancy. God knows I could not have waited much longer than that. :):)
Norah, we love you sweet girl.

2010-03-13T20:14:00.001-05:00

DTC!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, March 12, 2010
:)

2010-03-08T19:24:00.002-05:00

WE GOT THE PAPERWORK!!! Are boy are we thankful!!! 8 weeks to the day after we filed for this government document, we received the approval! I headed straight to our state capitol this afternoon and it is already on the FedEx truck on the way to be authenticated. We are hopeful that our complete dossier will be mailed to China this Friday!!!!!!
Gotta run - kids needs baths, books and bed :)
Our God, He moved mountains today.

2010-03-03T13:19:00.004-05:00

Yes, my friends, this is another bath tub picture. Want to know why - 1. The kids are in one place, with nowhere to go. 2. The tile and ceiling are white, which my flash loves and 3. The smiles and laughs we get while playing in the tub are like none other.

In other news - WE GOT APPROVAL for our 800A- our final document needed to send it all overseas. We are still waiting on the actual document to arrive (I am typing this at our dining room table with the front door open so I can greet the mailman and hopefully get it today.) If we get the document today, I will drive straight to Frankfort, KY to have it state certified then it's off to Wash, DC for authentication and then to our agency for our final overview then OFF TO CHINA. THEN the countdown begins. We started this process a little over 3 months ago and are thankful to be taking a big deep breath here in a few days - we plan to celebrate, just not sure how quite yet.:)

Nate had his parent-teacher conference last night . It went great. His teacher is so wonderful in so many ways. Nate adores her and respects her and that makes my world of saying goodbye to him each morning a little brighter. He is doing great and right on track with his reading level, math skills, science, social interacting and story writing. What a huge blessing he is to us. The joy he brings and smiles he gives - we are speechless.

Better get off here and go stalk the mailman. Maybe if I wait closer to the door, he'll come a little quicker. Maybe not, but I'll feel better.

UPDATE 2:23pm - it did not come today. Hopefully tomorrow.

2010-02-27T13:02:00.002-05:00

Waiting.....

I simply cannot believe that we are STILL waiting on our I-800A approval. Cannot even believe that I am typing these words. It seems that our case worker is quite thorough and that there was a slight oversight in our paperwork that was sent to the federal government. Though it was all corrected and re-sent on Thursday, as of Friday at 4pm, it still had not been approved. It takes several business days to make it here (in the mail) so we simply must wait and wait and wait. Once receiving this final piece of our dossier, we will then overnight it to DC then overnight it to our agency and have our complete dossier mailed to CHINA!!!! A HUGE STEP that we will most certainly celebrate in some huge way. It has been quite stressful and there have been moments when I turned to God in disbelief and wonder as to why so many seeming roadblocks and moments of heartache. BUT, it has affirmed our love for Norah and our faith in the ONE who made this all possible.
Our prayer today is that our federal government has mercy and decided to approve us yesterday (they just forgot to call) and that it is already in the mail on the way to us. Also, we pray that all goes smooth with our other paperwork already in DC getting authenticated. Though we can request an extension in China -we had really hoped to make our requested deadline of March 15, 2010. Something about setting a goal and being able to accomplish it - I love that feeling. But a lot has to fall into place for us to have everything in China within 13 days from now. Thankful our God can and does move mountains - He can make this happen and we believe that and trust that and put our hope in His perfect timing.

Happy Saturday!!

2010-02-24T13:26:00.002-05:00

Still waiting....

For our paperwork approval from the federal government (800A). It has been a long few weeks while waiting on that simple stamp of approval....well, what we thought would be simple. It seems that there was an oversight on our home study and we are backtracking to get that fixed and then we can move forward. It has been a roller coaster of emotions and to say we are bummed about this hiccup would be an under statement. Please join us in praying that this step would go smoothly and quickly. We had so hoped to have our paperwork in China within a week or two, but now it will take a miracle. However, we know a God who can move mountains and we continue to praise His name even in the midst of this trial. To Him be the glory.

2010-02-17T14:13:00.002-05:00

Longing to be a family of 5

We are currently waiting (not so patiently) on our approval from the US government before we can proceed with our paperwork and dossier completion. Then, it is OFF TO CHINA and we then wait 2-3 months to travel. I know this time will be but a blink of an eye "someday", but right now, as I sit and type and recall the past 7 times I've tried to contact our case worker who has not yet approved our paperwork, it's hard. I am resting on the promise that God's timing is always perfect....always. He loves our sweet Norah more than we do....He wants her here with us and we know and trust that He can and will move mountains....in His timing.

Please join us in prayer.

2010-02-15T11:02:00.002-05:00

The year of the TIGER

We celebrated Chinese New Year and Valentines Day all packed into one. These precious girls are all from China, 3 of them coming home from the same province at the same time. We enjoyed getting to know 3 more families who have had similar journeys. Naomi was the youngest of the sweet group - the oldest being almost 5 (Sophie - to the right of Naomi in March and Rachel - middle in the top row in September). We shared lots and lots of yummy Chinese food and laughter as we shared stories, blog addresses and phone numbers.
Naomi is such a joy to our family. She is a lot more expressive lately - sharing a lot of laughs, attempting more words (at least sounds) and even starting to sing a little bit (Jingle Bells - Ji-Ba-Ba, Ji-Ba-Ba), Twinkle Twinkle Little Star (up-abo). We are trying our best to prepare Nate and Naomi for Norah. We talk about her as if she is already here, we pray for her daily, we have her picture everywhere - but can we really fully explain to them what is to come?
Kids are home today - lots of snow on the ground. Nate is loving it and chomping at the bit to go outside - which means we will all venture out. :):) Here's to warm gloves and hats and lots of yummy hot chocolate :)

2010-02-10T16:03:00.002-05:00

Bidding farewell to a great man...
Thomas W. Buford
Tuesday, February 9, my grandfather passed way - unexpectedly. He was a great man - and we shared a passion for Jesus and music together. I am honored to be a part of honoring his life at the memorial service on Friday - playing violin and singing a hymn (with my brother). Death really makes me reflect on life....and how important it is to surrender to Jesus and all He has to offer - most importantly, eternity. So thankful Grandpa Tom is sitting at the feet of Jesus right now - able to walk, talk and simply be made "whole" again.

2010-02-09T16:23:00.000-05:00

Happy 2nd Birthday, Sweet Norah!!! We love you!!!

2010-02-04T13:41:00.001-05:00

Speechless......

2010-02-03T13:30:00.002-05:00

Our Nater-Bug

WOW, SO hard to believe that 6 years ago this week we sat across from a wonderful, articulate, beautiful, sweet, kind-hearted, Jesus loving young lady - who was expecting. Our conversation was natural, loving, nerve-wrecking :):), and Christ-honoring. Answering the most important question we were asked in the conversation - "What is the most important thing you want to teach Nate?" - we answered "to show him the love of Jesus, praying he finds Him as his savior one day." With the answer given, we were chosen to be his adoptive parents. WOW - what a moment!!!!!!! One we will never forget and always cherish. We are so thankful for M and her bravery and obedience to the Lord - whom she felt led her to place her son in our arms. We love keeping in touch with her and are so thankful the Lord has blessed her with a loving husband and beautiful baby. God is good. We love you Nate!! :)

2010-02-01T15:02:00.002-05:00

Bath time for our sweet girl.......

Where is your nose????

2010-01-31T20:20:00.002-05:00

Look what we got!!!!
Friday morning we received 2 updated pictures of our Sweet Norah. Need I even say we are in love. We also got some updated measurements and she is gonna be our little peanut (like her momma). She is 31 inches tall and only 26 pounds. Her 2nd birthday is fast approaching and we hope to have her in our arms in May or June.
Still waiting to hear back from our US government and get approved on this end, then the paperwork will head to China.
In other rather exciting news, Nate is READING!!! We are so excited for him. I mentioned a few posts ago that he was starting to, and now he is confident and eager to open a book. Tomorrow we re-register him at his same school (a JCPS protocol for Kindergarten and first grade).
Naomi is doing great. I'll have a post soon with some hilarious pictures I caught while she was taking her bath. Her personality is really starting to bloom even more. It really is like peeling back layers as she has been home. Lastnight we had a birthday party at a kids' gym and at first she was very hesitant to run around and try all the gym equipment. However, once she felt comfortable, she LOVED every minute of it - the spring floor, the trampolines, the hula hoop, the bouncy castle and of course the pizza and cake :)

Feeling blessed.

2010-01-26T15:23:00.002-05:00

Still waiting...

We have filed our paperwork with the US government and are patiently waiting to hear back that they received it and have scheduled our fingerprints. After our fingerprints, we will wait several more weeks and then, once getting an approval, we will file all our paperwork with CHINA!!!!! We are still several months away from our sweet Norah, but everyday and every process gets us closer.
Naomi is a little under the weather so we are hanging around here the past several days. 2 is a fun, challenging, hilarious, funny, hard age......bless her heart. Starting to contemplate speech therapy to help her along with her english.
Nate is doing great and hoping for a huge snow in Thursday. He really loves his days off school :) He read his first book all by himself lastnight!!! We are so proud! He really did not think he could do it, putting that pressure on himself -but once he started he realized all his hardwork has paid off. It was very rewarding for Nate and for us!!!
God is good.

2010-01-16T20:49:00.001-05:00

Not so sure

...that life gets much better than this. To see Naomi smile and laugh with all her heart is precious and priceless and, thankfully, we are seeing much more of this lately. She adores her brother and he can make her laugh and scream with delight and it is precious!!
Not a whole lot of new news in the adoption paperwork. We are waiting to hear back from our government with permission to bring an international adoptee into our country.....which will take several more weeks. We are also in the process of applying for several grants, including a matching grant from our pancake fund-raiser, Steven Curtis Chapman's grant and a few others. We are optimistic and pray the Lord provides the funds to continue to process. We are hoping to be traveling in May or June.
An exciting day today - Nate is a part of our church's worship services, representing his birth year and the Sanctity of Life.....it was a powerful and rather emotional moment watching him walk in front of thousands of people, proudly holding a rose which represented the million lives that were lost the year he was born. Praying God uses this horrendous time for Haiti in a mighty way - and those precious orphans find loving families soon.

2010-01-07T20:45:00.002-05:00

It's in the mail.......
Our 800A that is!!!!! Whoo-hoo!!! This step has taken weeks to come together and finally we are onto the next step....WAITING. Which, as busy as things are right now, waiting will be appreciated - not too much, but a little waiting :)
Hopefully, prayerfully we will hear back with an accepted form within 8 weeks or so, then we proceed with a few technicalities then our paperwork moves on to CHINA!!!!! WOWzers....Norah will be here before we know it and we are so excited.

The Lord willing, we will travel in the summer.

2009-12-25T21:37:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas
from our family to yours

2009

2009-12-23T13:27:00.002-05:00

I am one happy camper....I just got Lightroom 2!!!! I am just playing around with it this week, and so far only play with the white balance and saved presets, but I AM IN LOVE!!! WOWzers, I can totally mess up a picture and be able to restore it, even changing the white balance AFTER taking the pictures. :)
Aside from my new found love, life has been super busy - between adoption paperwork, Christmas preparations and festivities, watching my sweet nephew part-time, fund-raising and grant writing - oh, and raising our 2 children...well, it's been crazy :) But I wanted to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and remind you of God's love for you as you celebrate the birth of His son.
Back soon....:)

2009-12-04T21:32:00.002-05:00

Meet Norah

Our new daughter!!!! 3 weeks ago we signed up with an agency and could not believe our eyes as we opened our e-mail early Thursday morning - there she was!!!!
Norah is 21 months old and lives in an orphanage in the southern part of China - the latitude of Mexico. She has had a cleft lip repair and we will have the palate repaired upon returning home. We hope to travel in May or June, following several months of paperwork which we started on 3 weeks ago.
We are SO thrilled, humbled, excited, overwhelmed in paperwork, and READY to love our new daughter with all our beings.
Please join us in prayer as we being the journey to being Norah home.

So thankful

2009-12-02T15:33:00.002-05:00

Tis the Season.....

We LOVE Christmas and the celebration of Jesus' birth. To teach the kids the story in such a way for them to understand really helps keep the main thing the main thing. I don't want hustle and bustle and chaos and stress over the right gift. I want our children to have memories centered around Jesus and all He brought to us when he was born. The simplicity of the day and surroundings of His birth are worth our consideration as we approach December 25th. Mary was not at Wal-Mart buying a new flat screen for Joseph so that he would have something to do during the midnight feeding of baby Jesus. Don't get me wrong, we are called to celebrate and create a time set aside to honor Jesus and the gift He is to us. It's just finding that healthy balance between "how" we celebrate and "what" we do (and don't do) to honor Him.
May you feel the love of Jesus as you prepare to celebrate. What a gift He is.

2009-11-26T17:15:00.002-05:00

We are ever so thankful today......for the many blessings God has given us; including going through the heartache years ago of knowing we would never bear children. That heartache, by the grace of God, turned into a passion for adoption. As we begin the journey to bring our sweet daughter home, we are praising God for the chance to be a daddy and mommy to yet another child He created. We are honored. Humbled. Grateful. Excited. Ready.....

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-14T21:10:00.003-05:00

11 Wonderful Years...

Today Joel and I are celebrating our anniversary. 11 WHOLE years. On one hand, it feels like yesterday I was waking up very bright and early to prepare for our morning wedding. On the other hand, we have been through thick and thin and I am sure I have given Joel many of his grey hairs on his head. God has used our marriage to sanctify us in many, many areas of our lives. It has been an honor to be Mrs. Fenwick. I look forward to the years ahead; as well, this next year as we ADD ANOTHER CHILD!!!!! That's right, we are headed back to China!! We have begun the process and are answering the call to adopt a 2-4 year old daughter, with minor special needs.

God is so very good :)

2009-11-10T12:18:00.001-05:00

November 10, Naomi's Gotcha Day

Here is a poem a sweet friend wrote in regards to our celebration.....
GOTCHA DAY

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. ---Ephesians 1:4-6 (NIV)

Today, my friend Lee-Anne is celebrating a special holiday with her family.
She is celebrating ‘Gotcha Day.’

You see, one year ago today, she and her husband were in Beijing, China, waiting to meet a precious little girl who needed a home. Their sweet Naomi. From the moment they knew she existed, they loved her, though separated at first. They knew soon she would be home with them.

And today was the ‘Gotcha Day.’ They got her for good. This day Naomi fell into their arms for the first time, though she had been in their hearts long before that. But ‘Gotcha Day’ happened. She now belongs to them. And they belong to Naomi. They all share a home, a future, and a love can never be hidden…all because of their special ‘Gotcha Day.’

I couldn’t help but let my heart break with joy for this family, so excited about their special day. More precious than a birthday! More precious than Thanksgiving! This was the day that feelings met actions, and hope became a reality of loving this little girl who needed a home.

I wonder… does God celebrate a ‘Gotcha Day’ for me?

Does He announce to all the angels “Today was the day she came running into My arms for the first time! I wrapped my love around her and gave her My name! I sealed My Spirit within her and claimed her. She has a hope and a future, because today- I GOT HER!”

I am not an adoptive parent, so I can’t imagine what it feels like when you hold that chosen child in your arms for the first time. Yet, I understand that I am an adoptee into the family of God. I was left destitute in a land that was never meant to be my home. The things I was surrounded with were not intended to be my focus or my reality. God had bigger plans for me.

So- He chose me. Jesus came down to walk on the earth in a place that was not His home for a while: just like Lee-Anne and her husband traveled to China when they took Naomi. He went through a long and costly process, endured scrutiny, shame, heartache, and gave everything He had, sacrificing it all.

Sacrificing all so he could ‘gotcha’ me.

And ‘gotcha’ you.

I know the joy that Lee-Anne’s family experienced the day they got all the paperwork finalized, and saw on paper that sweet Naomi was theirs. All the i’s were dotted and the t’s were crossed. And there was no turning back. There was only the future. More importantly, she was right there in the arms of her adoptive parents, feeling true love for the first time in her life. And from that day forward, she would never know a day without their love.

As the Lamb of God writes our names in the Book of life, I can feel His joy too! He knew that the Crosses had been tended to already, and that His blood dotted out our sins. From that day forward, we would NEVER EVER know a day without His love. The debts of our sins had been paid, and all that was left to do was to wrap us up in His arms and cry out-

GOTCHA.

2009-11-09T15:24:00.001-05:00

an attempt at a family photo shoot....
seriously, not sure what I was thinking here...except that I really wanted a nice picture of the kids together. However, they were both feeling bad and by the time we ironed the clothes, dressed them and decided on a location - I was worn out, stressed out and done - before it all began.
SO, honestly, this picture is the best one of the two of them together. In the rest of them, Naomi is screaming her head off....miserable and cold and totally not in the mood to be in front of the camera. We made the best of it and I took a few more of Nate - who did his best to smile and pose for me :)

2009-10-27T17:05:00.002-04:00

Meet our newest addition....

Naomi loves her :) We have yet to name her.....

She wanted to take her outside....

But it was raining....

So we enjoyed our time inside....

Through the generosity and thoughtfulness of some dear, dear long-distance friends, Naomi got some very special presents in the mail today....we LOVE them. She got some "Brown-Eyed Girls" books with an adorable "Brown Eyed Girls Rock" bag and this sweet doll.....which she adores!!! Funny thing, I saw this in a specialty store and wanted to get it for her for her birthday, but they sold out......Kim, you read my mind and heart - Naomi will cherish this in the years to come. I am so thankful!!!!
Adoption bonds families....the Lord has blessed us with the Harris family and, though we keep in touch via cyber-space, we hold them as dear friends :)

Thank you Harris Family!!!! God bless you!!

2009-10-20T20:40:00.002-04:00

Our 5 year and our 2 year old :)
This morning, on our walk to school, the sun was out and beautiful! I could not resist grabbing my camera and having the kids pose for a few....
My mom made this precious hat for Naomi's birthday....I love it:)
I love my kids so much it brings me to tears....happy, grateful tears. What a glimpse of Heaven they both are.