God is so good and faithful! Yes, Derek is still sick and slept about half the night on the bathroom floor, but God has given him strength when he needed to take care of something with the children. He gave me strength to balance taking care of my husband and my two new kiddos. He's also calmed B and C when we need it most. We could have changed our plane tickets to fly in a day earlier(today), but thank God we didn't! We are so thankful that His hand has been in our adoption the entire way through!
Derek says he's feeling a bit better. He still has pains just below his rib cage, but he brushed them off today as simply hunger pains, as he hasn't eaten in quite some time. He hasn't vomitted since the middle of the night (it's 10 a.m. here). We're hopefully optimistic that his health continues to improve and that Bennett, Celia and my health stays stable.
Unfortunately, I think we may be the only family to have adopted from Russia who never sees Red Square. Supposedly, it's only thre blocks away. But that's just a little too much for Derek at the moment, considering the bitter cold, the continuous snow and all the effort and time it takes to bundle the four of us up before going out. Oh well. We'll have to come back.
The airports in Moscow haven't had the best track recod in the last several days. One (of the five) lost all power and all flights were canceled for at least a day, due to a terrible ice storm that hit the night before we came in. Since then, the airports have faced more cancelations and many delays. We know of two couples who thought they would beable to leave yesterday that are still here. He pray that we are able to make all of our flights!
I can't wait to be home!
Showing posts with label God's Guidance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God's Guidance. Show all posts
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Ho! Ho! Ho!
Santa stopped by St. Petersburg today and brought presents to our sweet babies! I’m sure they don’t understand that these presents are particularly for Christmas, as they have received many new toys to play with over the last few days, but Mama and Papa sure got a kick out of them opening their stockings.
Santa also surprised me with two presents that one of his elves snuck in a suitcase. I suppose I didn’t make it on the naughty list after all.
This morning was difficult for me. Our sweet little girl’s tummy got even worse and she had a bad case of diarrhea. I was beginning to really stress about C’s health. There was even a fleeting moment when I thought that perhaps she is in worse hands with me than with the caregivers at her baby home. Surely they would know exactly what to do and have just what she needs to make her feel better. Self-doubt is a terrible beast isn’t it?
However, when Derek had to leave for an hour and a half to pick our kiddos’ passports and our babies refused to take their afternoon naps, God certainly showed his mercy on me. I have been seriously praying over the last few days that the fear and insecurities over my job as a mother would leave me, and God is so faithful. It occurred to me as I changed poor C’s diaper four times in one sitting that I need to focus on one thing at a time. Whatever I can do in this moment, I need to do my best at that. (And Derek might have mentioned that to me once or twice…) So, I changed those diapers and then B's (just one for him—though a very full one!) and enjoyed each minute as it came with the kiddos.
Some new—but very dear—friends invited us to dinner tonight, in celebration of our Christmas. Earlier this morning I seriously doubted that we would make it. C was sick, I was showered but felt I looked awful, and we were exhausted from lack of sleep and skipping lunch three days in a row. However, God gave me the extra boost I needed while D was away. He also spoke through my children to urge me on. At one point, Bennett took his and Celia’s coats and such and took each piece, one by one, to the door. I guess we were going out! B and C later played on the stack of soft bundles.
Dinner was fabulous. Being the very first time eating out with the kiddos in a group setting, we didn’t know what to expect. But they were fabulous! Sure C got fussy a few times and B (once he got over his fear of being in a new place with a bunch of unfamiliar people) was not quiet. But they were great! It was really good to get out of the hotel—something I hadn’t done in several days. (What day of the week IS it…?) Our sweet friends and the wonderful group of friends who they introduced us to definitely made the best Christmas even better!
Merry Christmas to my friends and family at home! This is the first Christmas I will not be able to talk with my parents, which makes me a bit homesick. But I know everyone understands. Friends and family, we miss you all so very much and can’t wait to bring the whole Hunter clan home! We love you!
Santa also surprised me with two presents that one of his elves snuck in a suitcase. I suppose I didn’t make it on the naughty list after all.
This morning was difficult for me. Our sweet little girl’s tummy got even worse and she had a bad case of diarrhea. I was beginning to really stress about C’s health. There was even a fleeting moment when I thought that perhaps she is in worse hands with me than with the caregivers at her baby home. Surely they would know exactly what to do and have just what she needs to make her feel better. Self-doubt is a terrible beast isn’t it?
However, when Derek had to leave for an hour and a half to pick our kiddos’ passports and our babies refused to take their afternoon naps, God certainly showed his mercy on me. I have been seriously praying over the last few days that the fear and insecurities over my job as a mother would leave me, and God is so faithful. It occurred to me as I changed poor C’s diaper four times in one sitting that I need to focus on one thing at a time. Whatever I can do in this moment, I need to do my best at that. (And Derek might have mentioned that to me once or twice…) So, I changed those diapers and then B's (just one for him—though a very full one!) and enjoyed each minute as it came with the kiddos.
Some new—but very dear—friends invited us to dinner tonight, in celebration of our Christmas. Earlier this morning I seriously doubted that we would make it. C was sick, I was showered but felt I looked awful, and we were exhausted from lack of sleep and skipping lunch three days in a row. However, God gave me the extra boost I needed while D was away. He also spoke through my children to urge me on. At one point, Bennett took his and Celia’s coats and such and took each piece, one by one, to the door. I guess we were going out! B and C later played on the stack of soft bundles.
Dinner was fabulous. Being the very first time eating out with the kiddos in a group setting, we didn’t know what to expect. But they were fabulous! Sure C got fussy a few times and B (once he got over his fear of being in a new place with a bunch of unfamiliar people) was not quiet. But they were great! It was really good to get out of the hotel—something I hadn’t done in several days. (What day of the week IS it…?) Our sweet friends and the wonderful group of friends who they introduced us to definitely made the best Christmas even better!
Merry Christmas to my friends and family at home! This is the first Christmas I will not be able to talk with my parents, which makes me a bit homesick. But I know everyone understands. Friends and family, we miss you all so very much and can’t wait to bring the whole Hunter clan home! We love you!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
"Indescribable"
It’s “Gotcha Day!”
We began by stopping off at a Russian supermarket to buy diapers, wipes, food, juice and other items. My stomach was in knots as we made our way down the snowy roads to our baby girl’s orphanage.
As we walked up the slippery path to the main door, I paused, turned to my amazing husband and gave him a kiss. “Are you ready to be a mom?” he asked? “Yes,” I replied without even thinking about it. “Are you ready to be a dad?” “Absolutely.”
When we got up to the third floor and saw our baby girl everything seemed to happen so fast. The caregivers, who were teary-eyed at her leaving already, had dressed C in a beautiful burgundy dress with a huge white bow. It means so much to us that they care for her as much as they do.
I quickly changed C into her outfit, which we brought from home. Derek went back to her group’s room and snapped pictures so that down the road she can see where she spent the first year of her life. We left out gifts with the caregivers and they gave us some last pieces of advice: “She loves bread,” “She’s used to being spoiled,” “She’s a very smart girl,” and well wishes: “We wish you a full and happy life,” “take good care of her!” As we were heading out, the caregivers stopped us and gave us a chocolate bar and wished us “Happy New Year.” We bundled here up and we were off to get her brother!
Celia fell asleep on the car ride to B’s home.
The three of us (plus our driver/translator—have I mentioned how AWESOME he is?!) got out of the car and trekked through the snow to B’s orphanage. We stopped at the director’s office and she suggested that C not g up to B’s group because she might get sick. Derek stayed in Dr. G’s office (the baby home directors are also pediatricians) with C while I went up to get B. After he was changed into the clothes we brought him—and I was chided for not dressing him in tights—our translator took some pictures of his group’s room, we handed out gifts and said our goodbyes and we went to join the rest of the family!
Our driver opened the door to Dr. G’s office and in B and I went. I swear, C’s face lit up the second we walked through. Bennett and Celia… Alim and Nargiza… brother and sister were united at last! Celia was simply enamored with her biological brother—which truly touched my heart, because I was always so enamored with my late brother, Trevor. Bennett on the other hand must have been thinking, “Who are you and why is my Papa holding you?” Ah! I can’t wait to see how their relationship blossoms. There is something truly special about a brother/sister bond—especially one with a backstory like this one.
Before we left, Dr. G insisted we feed them a small lunch. Celia was all about it. Bennett was nervous and it took him a few minutes to come around. Soon enough we were off to head back to our hotel! The drive took a bit longer than expected due to traffic and both of our kiddos got a 45 minute nap.
When we got “home” to our hotel, we played and played and played. Bennett was into EVERTHING! We will DEFINITELY have our hands full with this two-year-old boy! We took several walks around our hotel floor and looked out windows. It still amazes me that they are seeing SO much for the first time. First boat, first line of traffic, first view of the world from 6-flights up… Bennett was looking at his photo book and saw a picture of me, pointed, and said “Mama.” He then flipped to the picture of Derek and said, “Papa.” Papa and I both teared up. B was so quiet at every visit up until this point. Now he just talks and talks! I guess his caregiver was right, aybe he was just saving all of his gab for us!
We were able to get onto Skype and talk to all the grandparents at one time. (They all met at a McDonald’s while Derek’s mom was on a work break.) There were tears all around.
After the call, we fed them dinner (I sure hope we’re feeding them enough. For an inexperienced parent, it’s hard to tell). In a word, it was MESSY! We’re still trying to figure out the best way to get them to drink. They are used to drinking out of small tea cups. Hopefully either they’ll catch on to the sippy cup or we’ll learn how to help them pour the drink into their mouths. Then it was bath time. B LOVED his bath and could have played in there for hours! C… not so much. The poor thing cried and cried. We made it through though!
After a short visit from our in-country coordinator, we got ready for bed. Derek read them part of a “Soviet” folk tale as we rocked each of our adorable and cuddly little ones. Then I popped in the “Praise Baby Lullaby” Baby Einstein DVD that a dear friend gave us. B was entranced! C enjoyed it as well. The first song that played was “Indescribable.” Listening to the words, rocking with OUR babies in our arms at last, brought tears to Derek and my eyes. I don’t think we’ll be able to hear that song again without thinking of the indescribable miracle God granted us. God loved B and C so much that he had their parents fly more than half-way across the world (three times!) just to get them. And God loves us so much that he brought us all together in the most PERFECT way.
And then, we put them to bed.
Dear friends, I say goodnight to you as a mother who feels blessed infinitely more than I deserve. I have two beautiful, smart and lovable miracles to call my own. I truly don't feel like I know what I'm doing, but--for the first time in a long time--I like that feeling. God has had his hands in this for years and years. He's got us this far, and I can't wait to see where he takes us now! We are all in the best of hands! I'm SO GRATEFUL!
We began by stopping off at a Russian supermarket to buy diapers, wipes, food, juice and other items. My stomach was in knots as we made our way down the snowy roads to our baby girl’s orphanage.
As we walked up the slippery path to the main door, I paused, turned to my amazing husband and gave him a kiss. “Are you ready to be a mom?” he asked? “Yes,” I replied without even thinking about it. “Are you ready to be a dad?” “Absolutely.”
When we got up to the third floor and saw our baby girl everything seemed to happen so fast. The caregivers, who were teary-eyed at her leaving already, had dressed C in a beautiful burgundy dress with a huge white bow. It means so much to us that they care for her as much as they do.
I quickly changed C into her outfit, which we brought from home. Derek went back to her group’s room and snapped pictures so that down the road she can see where she spent the first year of her life. We left out gifts with the caregivers and they gave us some last pieces of advice: “She loves bread,” “She’s used to being spoiled,” “She’s a very smart girl,” and well wishes: “We wish you a full and happy life,” “take good care of her!” As we were heading out, the caregivers stopped us and gave us a chocolate bar and wished us “Happy New Year.” We bundled here up and we were off to get her brother!
Celia fell asleep on the car ride to B’s home.
The three of us (plus our driver/translator—have I mentioned how AWESOME he is?!) got out of the car and trekked through the snow to B’s orphanage. We stopped at the director’s office and she suggested that C not g up to B’s group because she might get sick. Derek stayed in Dr. G’s office (the baby home directors are also pediatricians) with C while I went up to get B. After he was changed into the clothes we brought him—and I was chided for not dressing him in tights—our translator took some pictures of his group’s room, we handed out gifts and said our goodbyes and we went to join the rest of the family!
Our driver opened the door to Dr. G’s office and in B and I went. I swear, C’s face lit up the second we walked through. Bennett and Celia… Alim and Nargiza… brother and sister were united at last! Celia was simply enamored with her biological brother—which truly touched my heart, because I was always so enamored with my late brother, Trevor. Bennett on the other hand must have been thinking, “Who are you and why is my Papa holding you?” Ah! I can’t wait to see how their relationship blossoms. There is something truly special about a brother/sister bond—especially one with a backstory like this one.
Before we left, Dr. G insisted we feed them a small lunch. Celia was all about it. Bennett was nervous and it took him a few minutes to come around. Soon enough we were off to head back to our hotel! The drive took a bit longer than expected due to traffic and both of our kiddos got a 45 minute nap.
When we got “home” to our hotel, we played and played and played. Bennett was into EVERTHING! We will DEFINITELY have our hands full with this two-year-old boy! We took several walks around our hotel floor and looked out windows. It still amazes me that they are seeing SO much for the first time. First boat, first line of traffic, first view of the world from 6-flights up… Bennett was looking at his photo book and saw a picture of me, pointed, and said “Mama.” He then flipped to the picture of Derek and said, “Papa.” Papa and I both teared up. B was so quiet at every visit up until this point. Now he just talks and talks! I guess his caregiver was right, aybe he was just saving all of his gab for us!
We were able to get onto Skype and talk to all the grandparents at one time. (They all met at a McDonald’s while Derek’s mom was on a work break.) There were tears all around.
After the call, we fed them dinner (I sure hope we’re feeding them enough. For an inexperienced parent, it’s hard to tell). In a word, it was MESSY! We’re still trying to figure out the best way to get them to drink. They are used to drinking out of small tea cups. Hopefully either they’ll catch on to the sippy cup or we’ll learn how to help them pour the drink into their mouths. Then it was bath time. B LOVED his bath and could have played in there for hours! C… not so much. The poor thing cried and cried. We made it through though!
After a short visit from our in-country coordinator, we got ready for bed. Derek read them part of a “Soviet” folk tale as we rocked each of our adorable and cuddly little ones. Then I popped in the “Praise Baby Lullaby” Baby Einstein DVD that a dear friend gave us. B was entranced! C enjoyed it as well. The first song that played was “Indescribable.” Listening to the words, rocking with OUR babies in our arms at last, brought tears to Derek and my eyes. I don’t think we’ll be able to hear that song again without thinking of the indescribable miracle God granted us. God loved B and C so much that he had their parents fly more than half-way across the world (three times!) just to get them. And God loves us so much that he brought us all together in the most PERFECT way.
And then, we put them to bed.
Dear friends, I say goodnight to you as a mother who feels blessed infinitely more than I deserve. I have two beautiful, smart and lovable miracles to call my own. I truly don't feel like I know what I'm doing, but--for the first time in a long time--I like that feeling. God has had his hands in this for years and years. He's got us this far, and I can't wait to see where he takes us now! We are all in the best of hands! I'm SO GRATEFUL!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Adoption Letter to Friends
Below is the letter I mentioned earlier. If any of you have items you would like to donate to the yard sale, please let us know. We'd also love to see you on Friday and Saturday at the actual sale. Our address is listed at the end of the letter.
Thank you to everyone who has donated thus far! Please pray people show up to buy on Friday and Saturday!
Dear Family and Friends,
If you have received this letter, it means that in some way you have impacted our lives. Thank you for walking this journey with us.
Three years ago, Kat and I set off on our journey to become parents. We had no idea where this path would take us. It has been filled with trials, triumphs and everything in between. Kat and I heard a story of adoption and it was as if God had planted the seed that evening that would one day be our children. In the beginning, this story was just a story of hope that some way, some how we could have a family. But over time, God continued to reveal his plan for our lives and his plan of adoption. After careful consideration and tremendous prayer, we believed that God wanted us to walk through the door of adoption. As we researched, we heard God’s calling to adopt from Russia. We had friends that had adopted from this country and we felt drawn thousands of miles away to the vast country of Russia.
We began our adoption process in January of this year. We started by contacting a home study organization to begin their process of approving us as parents. Our time was filled with completing paperwork, tracking down documentation, taking psychological tests and more medical tests than we care to remember. All of these steps were made just to get our foot in the door to begin the conversation with an agency. After we obtained approval, we chose an agency that had many years of experience in Russia and had successfully completed many adoptions. Our agency required that we travel to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania to have a face-to-face interview before they gave their approval. We traveled to Pittsburg and completed our interview in April.
We were accepted and the process continued. That meeting feels like so long ago even though it was only 5 months ago. We know now that we are adopting a biological sibling group. By God’s grace, our children will be a 2-year-old boy and a 1-year-old girl. We feel that God is giving us these children in order to make our family complete, but also so that they can have a better life. In Russia, children who are not adopted generally do not have a high quality of life. Due to the conditions in many of the country’s orphanages and the lack of resources, children grow up lacking human contact or love. Often, children that are not adopted are not able to function in the world because of their emotional, physical and social inadequacies. It is our prayer that with God’s assistance we can make a difference in the lives of these children—for they will surely make a difference in our lives and possibly yours.
James 1:27 states, “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” We feel strongly that God urges his people to care for the orphans. Not everyone has a calling upon their heart to adopt, but we do. We feel blessed that prior to beginning our process, we were debt free minus our home mortgage which allowed us to be in the position to even consider adopting. The cost for our adoption will be around $65,000. Frankly, we can not finance this on our own. We are depending on God to provide the funding for us. We are asking you to prayerfully consider helping us with our adoption. Ways that you can help include donating items for a yard sale that we are having Friday, October 22 and Saturday, October 23; transferring Marriott points to help cover hotel costs; praying for us on our journey or any other way that God puts upon your heart. If you want to help, you may contact us by e-mail at ....
Thank you again for being on this journey with us. We would not be here without your continued love and support.
Derek and Kat Hunter
Thank you to everyone who has donated thus far! Please pray people show up to buy on Friday and Saturday!
“…once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know, and holds us responsible to act.”
~Proverbs 24:12
Dear Family and Friends,
If you have received this letter, it means that in some way you have impacted our lives. Thank you for walking this journey with us.
Three years ago, Kat and I set off on our journey to become parents. We had no idea where this path would take us. It has been filled with trials, triumphs and everything in between. Kat and I heard a story of adoption and it was as if God had planted the seed that evening that would one day be our children. In the beginning, this story was just a story of hope that some way, some how we could have a family. But over time, God continued to reveal his plan for our lives and his plan of adoption. After careful consideration and tremendous prayer, we believed that God wanted us to walk through the door of adoption. As we researched, we heard God’s calling to adopt from Russia. We had friends that had adopted from this country and we felt drawn thousands of miles away to the vast country of Russia.
We began our adoption process in January of this year. We started by contacting a home study organization to begin their process of approving us as parents. Our time was filled with completing paperwork, tracking down documentation, taking psychological tests and more medical tests than we care to remember. All of these steps were made just to get our foot in the door to begin the conversation with an agency. After we obtained approval, we chose an agency that had many years of experience in Russia and had successfully completed many adoptions. Our agency required that we travel to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania to have a face-to-face interview before they gave their approval. We traveled to Pittsburg and completed our interview in April.
We were accepted and the process continued. That meeting feels like so long ago even though it was only 5 months ago. We know now that we are adopting a biological sibling group. By God’s grace, our children will be a 2-year-old boy and a 1-year-old girl. We feel that God is giving us these children in order to make our family complete, but also so that they can have a better life. In Russia, children who are not adopted generally do not have a high quality of life. Due to the conditions in many of the country’s orphanages and the lack of resources, children grow up lacking human contact or love. Often, children that are not adopted are not able to function in the world because of their emotional, physical and social inadequacies. It is our prayer that with God’s assistance we can make a difference in the lives of these children—for they will surely make a difference in our lives and possibly yours.
James 1:27 states, “Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” We feel strongly that God urges his people to care for the orphans. Not everyone has a calling upon their heart to adopt, but we do. We feel blessed that prior to beginning our process, we were debt free minus our home mortgage which allowed us to be in the position to even consider adopting. The cost for our adoption will be around $65,000. Frankly, we can not finance this on our own. We are depending on God to provide the funding for us. We are asking you to prayerfully consider helping us with our adoption. Ways that you can help include donating items for a yard sale that we are having Friday, October 22 and Saturday, October 23; transferring Marriott points to help cover hotel costs; praying for us on our journey or any other way that God puts upon your heart. If you want to help, you may contact us by e-mail at ....
Thank you again for being on this journey with us. We would not be here without your continued love and support.
Derek and Kat Hunter
Monday, October 4, 2010
This Time Next Week Redux
This time next week... *deep breath* ...I'll be a mom. If not on paper nor biologically, definitely in my heart. I do feel that God has been preparing us for parenthood, but I also believe he has helped us guard our hearts until the right time. That time is soon.
Our path to parenthood has not been an easy one, as most of you know. For a short while, it had been filled partially with waiting, disappointment, helplessness, pain and uncertainty. But overshadowing all of that has been our very blessed journey that began when we followed God's call for us to adopt. I am honored that God has placed orphans upon our hearts and will form our family through adoption. "...once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know, and holds us responsible to act." (Proverbs 24:12) However, adoption has its own uncertainties, and we are thankful to our Lord that He has protected our hearts during these beginning stages of the process when so much is up in the air. Now that we are nearing the day that we will finally see the beautiful faces of our children in person, I sense the peace of the Holy Spirit allowing me to experience the excitement of our upcoming trip. I've been hesitant to use the words "mom," "dad," "our son," "our daughter," but that hesitation is wearing off.
On my way out the door this morning I stopped and kissed my husband and said, "Do you realize this time next week we will have already met both of our children? You'll be a 'dad!'" Derek just looked at me. "Wow," he said. Wow indeed.
One of my closest friends recently gave birth to her first child. While I'm not experiencing all the physical things that come with being pregnant, I feel I might have some idea of what it's like to be less than a week from one's due date. Excitement. Overwhelming emotions. Nervousness. Anxiousness. You name it, I'm probably feeling it!
Can you imagine what my posts will be like one week from today...?
Our path to parenthood has not been an easy one, as most of you know. For a short while, it had been filled partially with waiting, disappointment, helplessness, pain and uncertainty. But overshadowing all of that has been our very blessed journey that began when we followed God's call for us to adopt. I am honored that God has placed orphans upon our hearts and will form our family through adoption. "...once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, knows that we know, and holds us responsible to act." (Proverbs 24:12) However, adoption has its own uncertainties, and we are thankful to our Lord that He has protected our hearts during these beginning stages of the process when so much is up in the air. Now that we are nearing the day that we will finally see the beautiful faces of our children in person, I sense the peace of the Holy Spirit allowing me to experience the excitement of our upcoming trip. I've been hesitant to use the words "mom," "dad," "our son," "our daughter," but that hesitation is wearing off.
On my way out the door this morning I stopped and kissed my husband and said, "Do you realize this time next week we will have already met both of our children? You'll be a 'dad!'" Derek just looked at me. "Wow," he said. Wow indeed.
One of my closest friends recently gave birth to her first child. While I'm not experiencing all the physical things that come with being pregnant, I feel I might have some idea of what it's like to be less than a week from one's due date. Excitement. Overwhelming emotions. Nervousness. Anxiousness. You name it, I'm probably feeling it!
Can you imagine what my posts will be like one week from today...?
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
...Another Person's Treasure
After work today, I stopped by one of my closest friend's house to peruse some toddler items that her daughters had outgrown. In an odd way, I felt like I was sifting through treasures that I wasn't quite sure I had any business with. Let me explain.
Though people would use the phrase "paperwork pregnant" to describe the waiting stage we're in with the adoption process, sometimes I feel as if impending parenthood hasn't truly sunk in yet. Derek and I have put more work into preparing for parenthood than many people we know (if only every parent-to-be had a social worker come to their house and judge it top to bottom, or took a 560+ question personality test). We KNOW, thanks to the glorious God who guides us, that Russian adoption is the path we are meant to take at this time. We KNOW we're meant to be parents. We KNOW our children are waiting for us. However, I haven't let myself settle in with the idea that I'm going to be a mother in several months. It feels so very real, yet still so uncertain.
And perhaps that's because there are still many uncertainties. We still have an uphill journey ahead of us, complete with Russian judges, immigration documents, additional medical exams, travel expenses and other legalities. So much can happen.
Nevertheless, I have faith in God. I have faith in His plan for our lives. I have faith that He is faithful. So, while it may not have completely "sunk in" yet, I'm still excited to be collecting Fisher Price toys, shopping cart covers,creepy stuffed caterpillars, musical instruments and the like. It's all in preparation for what's to come, whether I fully comprehend that or not.
On a final note, I am so VERY thankful to our friends who are loaning us these items! I'm sure it will end up saving us a small fortune. We are beyond blessed to have such amazing friends in our lives who truly care about us and are almost as anxious as we are to bring our kiddos home! I love you!
Though people would use the phrase "paperwork pregnant" to describe the waiting stage we're in with the adoption process, sometimes I feel as if impending parenthood hasn't truly sunk in yet. Derek and I have put more work into preparing for parenthood than many people we know (if only every parent-to-be had a social worker come to their house and judge it top to bottom, or took a 560+ question personality test). We KNOW, thanks to the glorious God who guides us, that Russian adoption is the path we are meant to take at this time. We KNOW we're meant to be parents. We KNOW our children are waiting for us. However, I haven't let myself settle in with the idea that I'm going to be a mother in several months. It feels so very real, yet still so uncertain.
And perhaps that's because there are still many uncertainties. We still have an uphill journey ahead of us, complete with Russian judges, immigration documents, additional medical exams, travel expenses and other legalities. So much can happen.
Nevertheless, I have faith in God. I have faith in His plan for our lives. I have faith that He is faithful. So, while it may not have completely "sunk in" yet, I'm still excited to be collecting Fisher Price toys, shopping cart covers,
On a final note, I am so VERY thankful to our friends who are loaning us these items! I'm sure it will end up saving us a small fortune. We are beyond blessed to have such amazing friends in our lives who truly care about us and are almost as anxious as we are to bring our kiddos home! I love you!
Monday, February 15, 2010
To All My Guinea Pigs: FAQs
Is adoption our “Plan B?”
Not in the least! God our heavenly father adopted us as His children and we all know God never has—nor needs—a Plan B. It was His intention all along.
In the same vein, adoption is not Derek’s and my “next best step.” For years God had been planting seeds for adoption in my soul. It just so happened that it wasn’t until we were faced with the hurdle of infertility that we discovered God’s true path for this part in our lives. There are NUMEROUS avenues of fertility that we passed up to move full-steam ahead with adoption. Of course there’s nothing wrong with those options, and we know many who have pursued them with successful results. It’s just not the path we’re lead to travel.
Why international adoption?
(Why is it this always seems to be a question when one chooses to adopt from a different country? Don’t all children deserve loving homes? But, I digress…)
Not many people are aware that domestic adoption can cost upwards of $30,000, so it’s not always much cheaper than international adoption. Many times prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) end up having to pay for the birthmother's delivery, medical care, housing expenses, etc. Also, the birth mothers more than likely choose the adoptive parents, which leads to a pageantry we’d much rather avoid.
Foster care (as Derek knows well, from his work experience at DCS) is not something we feel we could do well. We both work full-time, causing it to be difficult to take children to court hearings, DCS meetings, etc. on top of what we are more than willing to take off for health issues, which can arise in any child.
Our last reason? Because God said “go.”
Why Russia?
Many reasons. We wanted to work with a country that has a history of completing many adoptions with the US. As first-timers to the process, we definitely want to go into as secure of an environment as possible. Three countries that have been most popular for some time now are Guatemala (currently closed to US adoptions), China (we’re not old enough to adopt from there) and Russia. While some countries are recently doing more adoptions with the US like Ethiopia, South Korea, Kazakhstan, etc., we just felt those weren’t right for this, our first experience with adoption.
It is required by the Russian Federation that orphans are available exclusively to Russians for at least six months (time can vary depending on region). This usually means that the orphans available for international adoption have been “passed up” several times before being referred to PAPs from other countries.
When did we begin the process?
Truth be told, adoption has always been something I’ve thought of—even back in high school. Derek’s heart for children who need good “forever” families grew during his time at DCS.
We attended our first adoption seminar on May 2, 2009. While we did not choose to sign with this placement agency, it was the vehicle in which God told us this IS His plan for us. We attended more seminars, talked to adoptive families, did more research than you can probably imagine (well, if you know “A”-personality-type-me… I’m sure you can imagine… ;-) )
After things with the future of Derek’s job were—one could say—“put up in the air” a bit, we thought it wise to put our plans on hold. International adoption is already a financial mountain we’re uncertain how to climb. We didn’t want to put ourselves in a foolish position. However, on a Wednesday about two and a half months ago, God made it so perfectly clear to both of us, separately, that it is His Will for us to go on and proceed.
How long will the process take?
A. Long. Time. I’m just putting that out there from the get-go.
In all seriousness, there is a possibility that we could have our child home in 2010. Likely? Probably not. So if I’m approached with a well-intentioned “have you heard anything yet?” or “when will you bring him/her/them home?” or “can we see pictures?” and I begin to scowl... you’ll know why, and you’ll also know to pray for me! ;-)
Who in the world has been reading this blog?
Um… you got me! More than 12,000 hits…?!
(The blog was public up until several months ago)
So, what do you guys think? What am I missing?
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Father Knows Best
Two weeks ago I put 70+ hours of work into my job. This past week I was well on my way for another 60+ hour week. While I do work quite a lot of hours outside of my home, this is not the norm. However, in a deadline-driven, project-juggling occupation, it’s going to happen from time to time.
Yesterday morning as I was getting ready to head into work—thinking about all the things I had to cross off my list and get done before the weekend—the weatherwoman on the morning news announced that Middle Tennessee was estimated to get .25 to .5 inches of snow.
Fast forward to 10:45 a.m. The snow started coming down fast and substantial. Five inches of accumulation, two worn-out and abandoned cars, and ten helpful friends later, Derek and I are safely “snowed in” at our house for the weekend. Big change of plans for finishing off my work week strong and diving into the weekend’s pre-planned activities.
With things to do, but no mode of transportation to navigate the encumbered roads even if we were brave enough to try, we’re stuck at home. While some facebook statuses express complaints of cabin fever and painful boredom, this career-girl is reveling in the excuse to be home! (See the sledding video—poorly shot with my phone—below as proof!)
Would I have taken a break from crazy work-weeks, Upward cheerleading practices, small groups, Chamber of Commerce activities, etc.? Eventually, I’m sure. But God knew I needed a break… before I broke!
Now, before you call me crazy, I am fully aware that it can be unhealthy to be on the go as much as I am. But, there’s a season for everything in our lives, isn’t there? With no children at the moment and thousands of dollars to save for our upcoming adoption, why not work? With families in our community wanting positive and empowering activities for their children, why not help spread to Gospel through Upward sports? With amazing Christian friends who want to learn more about God, why not learn with them in small group? I want to be an effective tool for my Savior. I don’t want life and its opportunities to make a difference pass me by.
All that being said, I’m so thankful my Father knows the best for me, and is willing to nudge me a tad when need be. I’m so thankful He reminds me to make “me” time. I’m so thankful He allows me slow down and simply know that He is God.
As I begin prepare for a new week tomorrow—one which will hopefully including sending the last of the needed documents to our social worker so that she can wrap up our home study—I hope that I can remember this recent time of relaxation and how beneficial such times can be to my soul. International adoption will surely send more twists and turns my way, but by being equipped with the peace of the Holy Spirit, I’ll be well-prepared.
CHECKLIST:
• Bloodwork
• Medical/physical
Yesterday morning as I was getting ready to head into work—thinking about all the things I had to cross off my list and get done before the weekend—the weatherwoman on the morning news announced that Middle Tennessee was estimated to get .25 to .5 inches of snow.
Fast forward to 10:45 a.m. The snow started coming down fast and substantial. Five inches of accumulation, two worn-out and abandoned cars, and ten helpful friends later, Derek and I are safely “snowed in” at our house for the weekend. Big change of plans for finishing off my work week strong and diving into the weekend’s pre-planned activities.
With things to do, but no mode of transportation to navigate the encumbered roads even if we were brave enough to try, we’re stuck at home. While some facebook statuses express complaints of cabin fever and painful boredom, this career-girl is reveling in the excuse to be home! (See the sledding video—poorly shot with my phone—below as proof!)
Would I have taken a break from crazy work-weeks, Upward cheerleading practices, small groups, Chamber of Commerce activities, etc.? Eventually, I’m sure. But God knew I needed a break… before I broke!
Now, before you call me crazy, I am fully aware that it can be unhealthy to be on the go as much as I am. But, there’s a season for everything in our lives, isn’t there? With no children at the moment and thousands of dollars to save for our upcoming adoption, why not work? With families in our community wanting positive and empowering activities for their children, why not help spread to Gospel through Upward sports? With amazing Christian friends who want to learn more about God, why not learn with them in small group? I want to be an effective tool for my Savior. I don’t want life and its opportunities to make a difference pass me by.
All that being said, I’m so thankful my Father knows the best for me, and is willing to nudge me a tad when need be. I’m so thankful He reminds me to make “me” time. I’m so thankful He allows me slow down and simply know that He is God.
As I begin prepare for a new week tomorrow—one which will hopefully including sending the last of the needed documents to our social worker so that she can wrap up our home study—I hope that I can remember this recent time of relaxation and how beneficial such times can be to my soul. International adoption will surely send more twists and turns my way, but by being equipped with the peace of the Holy Spirit, I’ll be well-prepared.
CHECKLIST:
• Bloodwork
• Medical/physical
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