The Drama of being a mother to 7

*** update 12:45pm - we have found foster homes for the kitties. I don't
know anything about it yet - if they are going to be split up - nothing. More
details to follow. ***

***update way too late Sunday night - I think the foster mom for the kittens
is going to be OK. She took all 5, and MS too. I didn't tell her
about MS, so that might not have been the best idea - really didn't think about
it until after the fact - so Michelle, if you see this {sorry}. I
am sad. Can't stop thinking about Hemmie.

When you are going through the adoption process, the way your brain thinks changes. Anyone who has been through it knows what I am talking about. In everything that happens, you look for meaning - you wonder if that is some kind of ‘test’ from God. Every chance encounter you are sure was ordained by God. Every trial you know was of His plan to make you stronger.

Which might all be true.

We now have 7 cats in our house. Jazz – who is the resident fuzzy ball of fun. The 5 kittens (who I now call Morris, Hemmie, Raskey, Storm and Snow), and some relative of the5, Morris Senior. The kittens are at the cat hotel (AKA our downstairs bathroom), Morris Sr. has taken up residence in the garage; and of course Jazz still has full reign of the house.

So I wonder – what is this all about?

Could it be that this is some kind of test? To see how many different ways I can be pulled until I break? The feeding, everyone is clamoring and crying for my attention. I just get done feeding and watering everyone – and then *crash* something has happened with the 5, so I go back in to see what is going on – 2 escape causing Jazz to go ballistic. I get everyone corralled back in the “hotel”, calm down Jazz – and I hear wailing coming from the garage…and so it starts all over again.

And I feel bad for Jazz. She doesn’t know what is going on – all she knows is that some strange smells and some other animals are invading her space. If you know anything about cats, then you know they are very territorial. Jazz is used to being the center of attention – or I should say, getting all of my attention. She is acting a little neglected and, well, mad. Right now, she is sitting on my desk staring at me with a look of “what have you done” in her eyes.

Then there are the babies. They need attention. They’ve gained a little weight in the short time they’ve been here. 3 of them are very starved for attention (they are boys). The 2 girls (the grey ones, Snow and Storm) are happy to just play with each other.

Oh geez, then Morris Sr. I feel so bad – I haven’t had time to really go out there and spend time with him/her (not sure if it is a he or she). M.S can’t come inside, because she has ear mites. I should do something about that. She is also very thin, and dehydrated. I just gave M.S. more water, and am monitoring the litter box…because that is what you do when you are the mother to cats. But M.S. is older, and is more self sufficient than the kittens.

Have I mentioned Oz? Yes, there is yet ANOTHER outside cat, Oz that has appeared in the past few days too. Oz looks like an Ocelot cat – beautiful! Yes, we fed him (which is why he keeps appearing, I know…) – but he is so skinny too.

UGH!!!

I’ve lived here long enough to know – we ‘ve NEVER had this many cats appear. Generally, we have random wild cats show up – but never this many nice cats that obviously have been around people.

So, if this isn’t a test – what is it? A glimpse into how things are going to be when Anya gets home? Being pulled in a million directions, feeling like you’re not getting anything done – and all you want to do is take a shower?

Maybe is it a test of my heart? How much can I take before I break? I have a heart for animals – but I have a soft spot for cats. I've walked away from dogs and puppies before - heartbroken, but I've done it. How am I supposed to let go of these little fur balls when we find foster families for them? What if the new families aren’t nice? What if they don’t know they all need attention? What if they don’t care that the kittens won’t use the litter box if it is messy? What if they never get adopted? Then what?

But I know I can’t keep them. Maybe this is what it is like to work in an orphanage? Loving each orphan, knowing they all have very specific needs, wanting to meet every one of those needs. Needing some help – just one more set of hands to help. Feeling your hear break with each cry.

Whatever it is, I don’t like it. It’s painful. It hurts. I don’t like feeling that I can’t do the best job because I am being spread too thin. I don’t like wondering if I am making a difference, making things better.

So, like all tired moms I know…I think I am going to put all the babies down for a nap so I can have a good cry and a shower.

oh ya, I forgot to clean up the breakfast dishes. I should do that first...

Kittens?

We found 5 little kittens tonight as we were walking down our driveway. They followed us back to the house - and now I don't know what to do. My Mom (who volunteers at Pet Refuge) is on her way over to help. For the time being, they're living in our downstairs bathroom...and Jazz (our cat) is NOT happy!

Anyone want a kitty? They are all very sweet - there is a runt that I am already attached to. Not sure how I am going to be able to give all these little furry guys up...

Article Published

I recently was asked to be a contributing writer for Blissfully Domestic. It is a great online magazine, with a readership of about 250,000! Yikes! Guess I am going to have to start paying closer attention to my grammar!



This week is a relaunch of the mag - new look, stronger push etc. I have 2 articles that will be featured this week. The first one was published today - it is about back to school shopping. Check it out HERE - the other piece is supposed to be published tomorrow, and it is about bra fit (I think). It will appear HERE

I have several friends who are also a part of this great magazine. It is so awesome to have such creative talent - within MY circle of friends! Check out Michelle's story HERE - this is a story about children and manners (super funny) - she will be a contributor to the Family section, and on the Faith section. And, another one of my pals, Amy is the editor of the Family section.

Make Blissfully Domestic one of your daily 'must reads' - also, become a member (which is no big deal) so you can comment on the great stories that appear in this online magazine!

[side note] - years ago I worked for a University as a regional marketing person. Well, one of the campuses I was responsible for didn't like me. They decided I couldn't write, and complained to my boss about my writing skills. So, my boss (to shut them up) made me take the English section of a college entrance exam (keep in mind that I have a BS and an MBA). So, I took the test, and passed with flying colors - I actually tested out of every English class you could test out of. Duh! I was also told to 'not be so Kathy' when I visited that location. WHAT??? Well - fast forward to today. I am doing JUST FINE being 'Kathy', and amazing thing - I am being ASKED to write - and I wrote A LOT - as in a 'job'! Success is the best revenge!

Prayer request-a-plenty

I don't know what it is today - but seems like every note I get, everyone I've run into has another prayer request. I am so honored that they're bringing these things to me, but makes me wonder what is going on.

So please - to all the prayer warriors out there - and to those who pray - please remember the following in your prayers:

• My friend (Jen) - her roommate's nephew was hit by a car tonight (little boy is about 10 I think)...keep him in your prayers
• Another family on this adoption journey with us is fighting some unsettling news (we think) - a lot of questions - no answers. Please pray for Peace for my friend, and His will
• Prayers for all the kids who are waiting to come home from Irkutsk. We are feeling the power struggle of good vs. evil - in some ways more than ever before
• My mother-in-law is having some kind of heart surgery tomorrow morning.
• One of my dearest friends son started school today -not sure if we should pray harder for the little guy, or my friend!
• The family of one of Marty's co-workers - Gary...Gary was killed last week

Thank you...

and then the floodgates opened

I was surfing around online tonight - pretty much avoiding anything that even sounded or looked like work (so for me, no online shopping, reading about trends, no magazines...)

I went to a friend's website I haven't been to in a LONG time. This is what I saw:

The title is "Anya's Blessing".

This is a beautiful painting that Cricket Berry did for an adoption fundraiser (auction) that my dear friends had for us years (and I do mean years) ago. I can't remember who won this - but I remember wanting to bid on it (and wondering if that would be not-cool...to bid on something at a silent auction that is being held to benefit you).

In my small group last week, we were talking about embarrassing moments. Anyone who knows me knows that my life is full of silliness that could be interpreted as embarrassment. But seeing this picture reminded me of that night. About how humbled I felt, how loved I felt, and...yes, embarrassed. Embarrassed that we needed a "fund raiser". And I know - this was a way my friends could support us in the adoptions. I know they wanted to do 'something'...I know that.

Those feelings are still with me now - so many years later. I'm embarrassed that we don't have Anya home yet - that SO MANY people have poured time, gifts, frequent flyer miles, money, prayers into this.

And that is all I have to say about that.

What do you REALLY believe?

I read this on another blog tonight. For some reason, it really hit me. I mean, I *think* I really believe, I *think* I really know what I believe. I *think* that this adoption journey is a test of what I believe, and how deep my faith is. I also *think* I've had to learn that my beliefs and my faith is more than what I lean on - more than my own understanding of the "why's" and "how's" of things. Sometimes I *think* I *think* too much, and just need to stop thinking, and start praying...

Do you truly believe that what you believe is really true? A question to
think about from 'The Truth Project'. I think I do. In good times I think I do.
In hard times, it is much more difficult. I loved the visual of the little boy
jumping off the diving board into the arms of his mother. An example of
childlike faith. Am I willing to jump into the arms of my Father?

We took a day off

I know, I was shocked too...but we did. We decided to take today and not work (well, until 8pm). We went to Weco Beach in Bridgman, MI. Ironically - this was the location of our very first 'real' date...now, I know what you're thinking, who goes to the beach on their first date? All I have to say about that, is it all worked out :)

I wanted to share these funny photos. Marty wanted to take a photo with the background in this pic. I disagreed because the sun was in my face - notice my eyes.

This shot was my idea...notice the bad background (or lack of background), and my eyes (haha!)

India by way of Russia

So, my hubby has decided to go to India. He will be going with a team from our CHURCH - there are several groups going. I really don't understand it other than to say there is a water group, a justice group and the group Marty will be with - the documentary group. He and some of his buddies will be filming the goings-on our the mission teams our church supports in India.

He is in the process of raising funds now - I think he leaves right after Christmas.

If you know anything about me and Marty - you know that we are rarely apart. We travel together - we work together (from home). We're one of those odd couples that really enjoy being together, and choose to be together rather than to be apart. The only time we're apart is when I have to run to Chicago on a buying trip, or if he wants to go to the movies...I am not good in a theater.

Another thing I should mention, is that I have no desire to go to India. I have a lot of friends who are 100% sold out in support of what God is doing in India - and I support them, and think what they are doing is great. Honestly, it isn't a place that makes my heart beat fast...and I think that is OK. God has wired me to be passionate about other things (women's causes here at home, orphans, bla bla bla). Also, I am a picky eater - well, not really. I just don't eat meat. I went on a mission trip (to Chicago) many moons ago, and about starved to death (seriously, barely ate anything for 3 days). I've heard stories of missionaries in India feasting on a goat that the village slaughtered as a thank you to the team. Um, ya - NO thanks! Not sure how that would translate...

So, I'm not going to India.

Since Marty will be gone, and it is about time for us to think about going to Russia again, I thought I would go visit Anya. I don't see how we can afford his trip to India, and both of us going to Russia...all in the same year. Ahhh yes, I wish we were made of money! I'm still not sure how we're going to swing one trip to India, and one trip to Russia...but I am getting creative.

So - anyone want to go to Russia? Tickets are running about $1500+, plus your Visa, food, transportation in Moscow, hotel in Moscow, transportation in Irkutsk, apartment in Irkutsk, and translator. Common - you PAPs out there (and you know who you are!!) - let's head to Irkutsk! I would like to be there for Russian Christmas...wouldn't that be too much fun!? (Deb, Winda, Addy - anyone???)

So - consider this a shameless plea - if your heart beats fast for mission work in India, feel free to contact my hubby with your financial support, or words and prayers of encouragement.

If your heart beats fast for Anya or orphans...and you've got some Delta frequent flyer miles (or Am Ex points, or Marriott points) you want to rid yourself of - I would be more than happy to take those off your hands.

..so that is a little slice of life, here in the Friend household. Never a dull moment.

confession

I have to confess. I haven't even started updaing the paperwork. Every time I think I am going to start, I work on business stuff.

This has been going on for weeks now.

I think it is because when I work on business things, join another online community, submit another article to some magazine...I get a response. I get feedback. I see the fruit of my labor. My work is rewarded.

Conversely - when I revise, redo paperwork for the zillionith time - I get nothing. I (generally) don't even get a notice that it was delivered, accepted. I have no idea (generally) when it is going to be give to the Judge...and this is all very typical - very Russian. They are not so good at master-communication skills (at least by our standards).

So this is my confession - I seem to be spending time on things that I feel some sense of accomplishment from...and today, that isn't dossier paperwork.

First Blog Award

My blog-adoption-friend (Addy) gave me my first Blog award! I was about ready to give myself an award (kind of competitive that way) - so thanks! Part of accepting this most prestigious award, is that I get to nominate others...after (of course) my acceptance speech...so here it goes:

I'd like to thank the ridiculous Russian officials who have been keeping my Anya captive, forcing me to take a leap into the blog world. I would also like to thank my bloggy pals for reading my nonsense, and for the entertainment value their blogs provide me.

With that, I would like to nominate the following blogs that I read just about every day:

1. Brenda
2. Michelle
3. Jenni (AKA JLa)
4. Kristen
5. Angie
6. Kate
7. Christen

So, to the winners - here is what you have to do:

Congratulate yourself!
Add the logo of the award to your blog
Add a link to the person who awarded it to you - that would be me!
Nominate up to 7 other blogs
Add links to those blogs on your blog
Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs.
Happy Bloggin' everyone!

weather in Irkutsk

I always check the weather in Irkutsk - odd, I know. Just to let you in on a little snippet of my day -tomorrow, it is supposed to rain - high in the 50's, low in the 30's. Weekend weather will be partly cloudy with high in the 60's, low's in the high 30's - ahh yes, late summer in Siberia!

All the money in the world

I wish I had enough money to:

• not worry about bills, debt, payments
• give freely - enough to those that it would make an immediate difference
• that I could go to Russia any time I wanted
• not think about the total of my groceries in the check out line
• to fill my house with fresh flowers all year around
• to be able to walk into the shelters, agencies, groups, church that we give to and ask what the deficit is...and be able to meet it
• be able to buy a house or a car for someone who really needed it
• employ those who need a job
• buy my husband an IPhone (so I could stop hearing about how he's not cool because he doesn't have one, and how all his friends have one, and how it's not fair)
• provide to the orphans in Irkutsk - make sure they are cared for, fed, clothed
• help friends in need, anonymously
• fund cancer research
• fund heart disease research
• get meeting with people of power and influence, and give them my opinion
• get in front of Putin and explain to him what his 'judge' is doing to my Anya
• allow my husband (who is the best husband in the world...by the way) to do whatever he wants - not work for a paycheck - give him the freedom to just create
• to say no sometimes

What about you? If you had all the money in the world, what would you do?

Living Room to a Wedding Chapel

Do you all remember (back in the day) those commercials for futons? The actor would exclaim "sofa to a bed...SOFA TO A BED?!" (OK, Mel is probably the only one who is cracking up right now...)

Anyway - we made our front room a wedding chapel this weekend (front room to a wedding chapel...FRONT ROOM to a WEDDING CHAPEL?!) - there aren't too many people in the world I would move all the furniture out of those rooms for...but, my friend Kim is one of those people. I blogged about her shower HERE. My friend Kim is now happily married to her Prince Charming - Bart.


It was such a beautiful day, and the wedding was perfect (and I didn't even obsess about the streaky/spotty windows, or the weeds that I forgot to pull on the side of the house). I know this blog is not about my friend's wedding - but I also know that there are a lot of you out there who know and love Kim and Sara...so, indulge me and ooooo and ahhhhh at these pics.

my church...and me MIA

For the past few weeks, we haven't been able to go to church as regularly as we normally do...and that bums me out. Travel schedules, and gas prices seem to be keeping us on this side of Michiana.

My church is making a switch for the mid-week service. Typically - the Thursday night service is one that I would not miss...no matter what. Over the summer, an announcement was made that the Thursday services is moving to Wednesday nights - and taking on a new format. Cool! Love new and different. I never got all of the details, because (of course) we missed that week.

When I heard the news, I also heard that it was going to start in August. So, I've been loading my schedule on Thursday nights.

Huge mistake...

This past Thursday was the last 'thurs. mid-week' service. I've heard rumblings that it was amazing - of course, I didn't know it was the last Thursday night - and we didn't go (I was working).

Did you go this past week? What did I miss? What is the new Wednesday all about? When does it start?

...I need details!

Have you ever...

Have you ever wanted to tell someone if they don't like what they read on your blog - then just don't read it!

If they find the information you share on your blog is opposite to what they believe - then don't read it!

Why is it that people are so quick to jab and stab rather than to understand?

If you don't like hamburgers - then don't work at McDonald's.

If you don't like the reporting on CBS, then turn the channel to NBC.

...sometimes people wear me out.

so grateful

Seriously, I don't know what I did to be blessed with so many great friends. I can be pretty scarcastic - I never have time to get together for coffee and chat, I am horrible at calling people...yet, God has blessed my life with some pretty incredible pals.

...and family! No matter what crazy thing I get myself into - my family is always right by my side. Literally - if I volunteer for something, that means you get me, my hubby, my mom - and maybe my brother. I've never heard them complain - and are always happy to help me. I tease them that they are the "hired help", but I've never paid them. They let me get in my pre-event "mood" (which sometimes isn't pretty), and they love me anyway.

I just want to say for the record - thanks to all of you who stopped by to see me at the mall this weekend. It's always nice to look up and see a friendly face or 2! Thanks for supporting me and my business - and for being my biggest fans. LOVE YOU GUYS!

anyone know?

Does anyone know how to block a user from seeing your blog? Just curious...

adoption update - not sure what to think

I realize that many of you come here to see what is going on with the adoption. And, I realize that I don't post a ton of updates on what is going on ...basically because there is nothing going on - really.

I've posted before about another family who is trying to adopt a little boy from the same region we are. They have taken their case to the Russian Supreme Court...they are blazing trails for all of us in Irkutsk. Well, their case FINALLY (a story for another time) got back to the Irkutsk court, and Judge S. FINALLY reviewed the Supreme Court's decision. We all were thinking Judge S. would grant a court date, and that our friends would be traveling in October (ish) to go to court.

Of course, that doesn't seem to be what is happening.

Judge S. offered a list of 10 things our friends must get before she will grant them a court date. Most of the things on this list are easy - things like an updated criminal background check (I can understand that - logical)...but there are other things on this list that seem to be impossible - specifically, a document signed by a doctor that doesn't exist in our country. So - essentially, the Judge is saying 'you must travel to Russia JUST to have a 20-minute visit in a medical clinic with this doctor'.

In the past, Judges in this region would grant court dates pending an in-country medical exam. So, families would get to Russia a day or so early in order to spend a day in a Russian medical clinic, and have all of these exams done.

This is where I need your help. I know that we have so many creative minds reading this blog. Lots of people that know lots of people. We need you to help! We need you to put those networking skills to task!

We need (as so many of the other Irkutsk waiting families) a doctor who is a Dermatologist-Venereologist. What is a venereologist you ask? Who knows...It can't be JUST a dermatologist. I Googled Venereologist, and it seems that it is a "the study of the diseases that are communicated by sexual intercourse" - I'm not kidding. Now, if you know of an American doctor who specializes in both things - PLEASE let me know! Or, if you have some kind of connection to one of these doctors in Russia - that would be even better!

Finally - on a more personal note. The time has come for us to redo ALL of our documents again. You all know that I have dreaded this. I know that the last 5% is the hardest part of anything. Well, for us, it seems that the 5% is more like 20% or more! If I can be so bold as to again ask for your prayers...pray that we can get these documents done without many issues, that I get them done in a timely fashion, and that I am able to get them to Russia by September 1-ish. Also say a prayer for the people with the Secretary of State's office here in Indiana. They are very nice, but I know every time they know we're coming - or when we ask for something, they cringe. Thankfully - they are the kind that know it isn't us asking for unreasonable things. I just want to pray for their tolerance of all these things, and patience with all of our documents.

We truly appreciate and love you all!

Pics of the dynamic duo

I love my friend Tracey - we don't get to spend enough time together. But when we are together - WATCH OUT! You just never know what is going to happen! She is one of those 'true blue' kind of pals...so glad she is on my side!

Here are some more photos of our Hove-A-Round escapade.


Oh no - I think we're heading for the pool area.


Nope - it looks like we're early for happy hour (haha!) ...I think we were a little too early, as in - we were the only ones there!



I have NO idea what the big secret is...


Quite a pair!

Hove-A-Round and a bum foot or 2

When we were in Florida a few weeks ago (photos are coming...I promise!) - I was in one of those great orthopedic boot things. I blogged about being pushed through the airport in a wheelchair (humiliating!). TO read that post, go HERE

Well, in FL, I met up with my friend Tracey (from Washington state). She was fighting immobility too. We were quite a pair. She rented a Hove-A-Round...i.e. a power wheelchair. One night, I was pooped from dragging around my bum foot all day, so I hitched a ride on Tracey's HAR.

It was captured on film...there is nothing more to say.

You never realize...

Since we've been traveling and on the go so much for the past few weeks (and lost my luggage), I have realized how much certain things at home make me happy.

• My electric toothbrush - I really miss that when I'm not at home...a manual one just doesn't do the job the electric one does.
• My bedding - I know I spent way too much on our sheets - but they are seriously the softest most comfortable sheets in the world!
• Beverages - at any time, I can go to the fridge and get something to drink!
• My cat, OK, I know that sounds odd. But Jazz sits in my office (or wherever I am)...she is always right by my side. When I am not here, I miss her.
• A good workspace. At hotels, I can never get comfortable using my laptop.

What comforts of home do you miss when you are out of town?

Friends vs. skunk

If you've been following this blog for a long time, you might remember a post last year called "SKUNK WARS".

This year, the skunk gets revenge.

We were taking a walk down our driveway (which is 1/4 mile-ish long)...with a treeline on one side...when I looked up and saw a skunk...right there in our driveway, staring at us. Yes, I freaked out!

So - what do you do when you come (almost) face to face with one of these scary stinky critters? Back away slowly!! And continue your walk WAY FAR away from where the skunk went!

adoption paperwork

It's been a while since I posted anything about the adoption - so I guess I should say a little something about it.

I am having trouble getting the new medical form done. We known someone who is good friends with the medical director at one of the big clinics around here. We need him to get this done. I haven't been able to get any contact info out of my friend. I tried to just call the office -and he isn't taking any new patients...so they wouldn't make an appointment for me to see him.

Generally, I hit a closed door, or a 'no' and I see that as an exciting challenge. Now - a 'no' just makes me tired...and I put that document that needs to be done on my 'to do' pile. This has been going on for weeks now...and it's still not done. And, it is on my 'to do' list for next week.

Why is this ONE document SO HARD to get done? I've completed (literally) thousands of documents for this adoption...the same document done 6 times (different each time) in triplicate...and it didn't tire me. I just don't know why I can't muster the energy to get this done this time.

IMEDIATE PRAYERS NEEDED for our missionary friend

Hello All,

We have a prayer request. Our friend, Wes (some of you know him) has a daughter named Martha. She is the mom to 5 children. Her husband died several years ago. Martha is a missionary in Israel. Her (and her husband's) life's work is to help ill children get much needed life-saving medical help in Israel.

Martha and her family have lived in Israel for a long time (I don't know exactly how long...but a long time).

A few weeks ago - Martha was visiting family on the West coast - and heading back to Israel. Upon landing in Israel - she (and her 5 children...all young kids) were detained for 10 hours, and deported back to New York. The only reason given was that thier Visas were not in order...after 10 HOURS!!!!!!

Her home and life are in Israel. Martha and her kids are at a hotel in New York trying to figure out what to do.

A family friend met Martha and the kids in New York to help them get settled. As he was helping them, his van was broken into. Everything he owned was in the van (computers, clothing, passport). He was packed and heading to Indiana...so now, he has nothing.

Please pray for Martha and her kids...and the family friend (John). From what I understand, Martha is working on getting to Indiana...that is where Wes is.

Updates, donations and words of encouragement can be found through Full Life Crusade. http://www.flc7.com/home.html

update on Jessie

A quick update on Jessica. Jessica goes in for her Stem Cell Rescue on the 19th of August and needs your prayers. Jessie is doing well. If you would like to follow her progress, go to the following website. At the top of the site - you can see photos, leave her a message (which she would LOVE)...you can tell her you know her through her Dad and Kim.

http://www.caringbridge.org/wi/jessie/guestbook.html

more pics from Kim's shower

Another Party

Last weekend, I had a bridal shower for my friend Kim. Kim is getting married the middle of August - I am so happy for her! She has found a great guy.
Here are some photos of the party:

what to do in Lake Buena Vista

SO here we are , on the 'free' day of this business trip. My plan was to:
1. relax by the pool
2. hit up one of the Disney parks, maybe Universal or something

Well - with the bum foot, all that walking (theme park style) just doesn't sound like fun. And, it's cloudy - scattered rain all day.

So what to do? Sit in my hotel room and blog!?

I am going to the pool, I don't care...I will henceforth be known as the crazy lady lying the the rain reading her Spiritual Disciplines book.

Hope to post some photos later today.

it was horrible, humilitating...

Yes, I surrendered to my bum foot. While going from one gate in Detroit to catch our next flight today, I broke down, and let my hubby wheel me through the airport in a wheelchair. My thought was that:
1. we'd get from point A to point B faster
2. people wouldn't gawk at me hobbling around the terminal
3. I am sure there is some benefit to my ouchy foot in not walking 32 miles from the C gates to the A gates

Well - people did gawk. Apparently no one under the age of 80 gets wheeled around in a chair...through the airport. Maybe people didn't see the 10 pound massive plastic and Velcro boot on my foot. I wondered what they were thinking.

I decided to hide behind my computer bag.

update on adoption

I just posted an update a few posts below...I started writing it a few days ago - and when I posted it, it posted as if it was a few days ago...not now. So, I wanted to be sure you all knew to look through the weekend posts...if you are here for some adoption news. :)

About the weekend - part-2

So, Friday night, my hubby and I went to a favorite restaurant. To my surprise, some friends met us there - making for a great night. Thanks Davis's and clan for a fun night!




The festivities went into Saturday night - we decided to check out a new restaurant in town (Villa Macri) and as soon as I sat down, my cell phone rang. It was one of my dearest friends, Kathy - she said "did you just walk into Villa Macri? I think you walked right by our table!" What a nice surprise!


Needless to say with all this excitement this past weekend, I am wore out. I am older now, ya know! I think I need a good old-fashioned nap!

[afterthought - do you notice a pattern here? Food, eating, more food and eating...gee, I wonder why I feel like a blow-up version of myself today!]

About the weekend - part-1

My birthday was this past weekend. Generally on my BDay weekend, I invite friends over to our house for a cookout - they don't know it is for my bday - and I like it that way. It's always THE way I want to spend that day...serving my friends, and allowing them to have a great time...and we always have a memorable time! (in photo to left Brian and Vicki)

This year, we kicked off our cookout with a time of prayer. We prayed for little Jessie, the adoption, oppressed regions in the world, and so many other things I can't begin to remember them all...a full hour of non-stop prayer - IT WAS SOOO COOL!

I think the BEST part of the evening was when my brother's butt went flying through the seat of one of the chairs we have (well, had) on the deck. In his defense, the wicker on the chairs was old, and that was probably the reason...but don't think that I didn't have a TON of fun teasing him about it!

Of course, then my darling husband had to go ape on the other chair. He said he was 'helping, just in case someone else tried to sit on that chair" He didn't want anyone to get embarrassed...but, I think he just had a good time punching holes in the chairs!

Then came the cook-out portion of our night. We all ate, and ate, and ate some more!

Joan, Kim, Steve and Kris pigging out.

Nathan and Mica playing horse shoes.

My brother (Dan) with his gal-pal Whitney

The Moms (my mom and Marty's Mom)

Little Miss Sarah - acting silly! She is stinkin' adorable!

Adoption Update, Prayers and more...

[WARNING - THIS BLOG POST MAY CONTAIN RANDOM THOUGHTS, BUNNY TRAILS, AND A LOT OF 'HUH'S....IT'S JUST THE KIND OF MOOD I AM IN]



You all know that I have been exhausted with this adoption process for a while now. I am weary of the fight, tired of telling the story, exhausted with the process, so DONE with paperwork…but I’m not done, weary or tired of trying to be Anya’s Mama (if that makes any sense at all…)

I know I have said it before, but I KNOW I can not bring her home on my own will. I know Christ knows me, He knows how tired I am. He knows what makes me tick – what gives me the energy to push on.

And so I push on.

This past week, it seems a lot has happened. But, ‘a lot’ I guess could be up for interpretation. But before I tell you all that has happened, let me back up.

About a month ago, I started going to a Bible Study with a group of gals from my church. We’re studying biblical disciplines…not an easy study, but (for me) a very necessary one. Admittedly, I have not been good at reading the book every day. I have not been good about implementing the disciplines into my everyday life. But, God knew that before I started this study. Although I haven’t been good about that, I have been good about one of the disciplines – focused PRAYER.



I have been taking time out every day to really focus on my prayer-life. For those that know me well know this is kind of a huge thing for me. Finding time to add anything to my calendar can be a miracle. But, this is important. Something I KNOW I HAD to do.



STUFF THAT HAS HAPPENED
In the past week, we were able to get a set of important documents from California. We have figured out a way to get the medical information done - one of those nutty requirements from the Judge in Russia.

One of the families who is waiting with us (I’ve blogged about them before), got a final ruling form the Russian Supreme Court. They overturned the decision from the local Judge…in her own words – this is what that means:

And then of course on Tuesday we learned that it appears we will get a court date within the next few months and once again I was torn. My heart told me to jump for joy, to yell the good news from the highest mountain; my old self told me to shield my heart since the fact remained that a court date does not guarantee a done deal. For a few days it's been a battle again, but today's it's like I got whacked upside the head. Trust. Such a short, simple word. Such a hard thing to do.

So, we (along with those pre-adoptive-parents we're waiting with...we must TRUST the God we've been praying to for SO LONG! This is kind of where the rubber meets the road. Where our Trust is tested...I'm up to the challenge!

We have another friend, who is also waiting with us – who is completing some final documents to submit their dossier (again) to the Judge in Russia.

Yes another family is completing documents for their dossier to be presented for the first time.

The Embassy in Moscow is working closely with all of our cases, and things are happening on their end. They have the contacts and relationships with those in power in Russia. They can bring attention to our situation that we can’t bring on ourselves. Stuff is happening, things are moving. GOD IS GOING TO WIN!

WHAT DOES ALL THIS MEAN?
Since the Russian Supreme Court overturned the regional Judge’s decision, chances are she won’t make “that’ decision again. This is good. The ‘reasons’ are things all of us are dealing with.
Once a prescient is established with a set of documents, it makes things much easier to appeal (and submit). This is all just my opinion.


Someone WILL get a court date – which is a HUGE step forward for everyone.

We’ve had several groups pray for this adoption situation over the past few weeks. I’ve heard some amazing stories of things that have come out of that prayer. Regardless of what your spiritual background is, we can all agree that unified prayer is a good thing. Here are some of the prayer reports:

• A week ago, a specific prayer was that a court date be granted…to anyone – an American. Our prayer was answered.


• Prayer warriors have told me that in the midst of praying, they were seeing visions from God of our victory; they are seeing a parting of the waves and a calm sea.


• The stronghold that has Anya (and others) is being released. We believe now more than other that we are in the right fight!


• I've received several emails from people I don't know...encouraging notes about our adoption journey (thanks to a new friend from Canada!) - the right words at the right time. Isn't God's timing amazing?!

AND SO NOW...That is all I know (so please don't ask)...this is it...the end, nothing else. I'm not holding anything back, have no further opinions...this is it. I promise.

update on Jessie-2

Hi everyone - good news on the Jessie front!

Also - as a reminder for those in the Michiana area (and if you don't live in MIchiana - we will be praying from 3pm - 4pm) - we're hosting a "prayer cookout" on Sunday (tomorrow) - we are going to gather to pray for Jessie (and other things that have been going on in our circle of friends). If you would like to join us, drop me an email and I'll send you specifics.

Below is a note I received about what is going on with her:

We spent about 5 hours at the hospital today doing a full body scan and talking to a team of specialists. Here is the update.

First and foremost…Glory to God!

Jesus Christ the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

And the prayer of FAITH shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; James 5:14,15

We prayed specifically that the cancer in Jessie's body was not in her bone marrow (even though initially the doctors thought it was) Also specifically that the cancer was not anywhere else in her body. Praying specifically we are able to give Glory solely to God when these prayers are answered.

Both of these prayers were answered today! So what does this mean? It means it is in her favor that this tumor is isolated. Surgery really at this point is not an option and would leave Jessica handicapped with no use of her arm. She has to undergo High dose chemotherapy and possibly radiation. She also has to do stem cell transplant as the chemo will kill her cells but also her bone marrow. The stem cell transplant reintroduces her own cells back into her body.

What we are specifically praying for now is that the chemo will shrink the tumor and eliminate it. Jessie has possibly a year of treatment and a long road ahead of her.

Thank you so much for your prayers, concerns and to all that are able to help in fundraising of any kind.

God bless all of you.

Bart and Kim

Russia bans 3 adoption agencies following baby's death in U.S.

I do not understand why people murder children - and why it seems to be happening over and over again to Russian children. Here is another tragic story of a child who died and the father is to blame.

This child was from Virginia (as was Nina Hilt) - I feel HORRIBLE for anyone from VA who is trying to adopt.


http://en.rian.ru/russia/20080711/113805362.html


Russia bans 3 adoption agencies following baby's death in U.S.
21:31

11/ 07/ 2008

MOSCOW, July 11 (RIA Novosti) - Three international adoption agencies, including one that failed to inform Russia of the death of a baby in the U.S. this week, have been banned from operating in Russia, the country's adoption authorities said on Friday.
A 21-month-old baby adopted from Russia three months ago died in the U.S. state of Virginia on Tuesday after being left by his foster father for several hours in the back of a car, in searing heat.

The Russian Education and Science Ministry's adoption commission said in a statement: "The agencies to be banned from working on the territory of the Russian Federation include a representative office that violated the requirements of Russian law on swiftly informing us of the death of an adopted child."

The baby, born with the name Dmitry Yakolev, was left strapped in the back seat of his foster father Miles Harrison's car when the man drove to work in the town of Herndon. The boy was left in the car in the hot sun as the temperature in the vehicle rose to around 55 degrees C (130 degrees F).

Harrison, 49, was supposed to take the child, who he had named Chase, to a day care center on Tuesday morning but went straight to work, leaving the child in the SUV with tinted windows until late in the afternoon, when a passerby saw the child and alerted the office receptionist.
Herndon police spokesman Jeff Coulter told RIA Novosti earlier on Friday: "Mr. Harrison is in the hospital, where he was admitted in a state of shock after the death of the child. We will give him time to recover, and then we plan to arrest him."

Coulter said no charges had been filed against Harrison, but that he would be charged with manslaughter, and if found guilty could face up to 10 years in prison.

The incident had been expected prompt new calls in Russia for tighter controls on adoptions following several other scandals, notably the killing of a two-year-old girl from Siberia by her adoptive mother in the United States. The woman, Peggy Sue Hilt, was sentenced to 25 years in prison in May 2006 for beating the child to death.

Around 120,000 Russian children were adopted both in Russia and abroad in 2007, a 6.4% increase on 2006, according to the Science and Education Ministry.
For more information in Russian

We're going to Disney!

Yes, it's true - I have a fashion conference that will be held at Disney in Florida later this month. As part of this conference, we are able to take advantage of discount tickets to all of the Disney attractions.

So - should we take advantage? What should we see / do? What should we skip?

Remember, we're adults - no kids...

Any suggestions?!

Jessie

Hi friends,

Just heard from Kim, and she said that Jessie is in good spirits this weekend. They were able to get out and have some much needed fun. The next few weeks are going to be hard - but we're praying for a miracle!

I thought I would post some pictures of Jessie (and her sister, and her Dad) - so you know who you are praying for.

I was reading our senior pastor's blog tonight. He is heading to Camp Adventure - a middle-schoolers camp. Personally, I can't imagine looking forward to spending a week at camp with hormone-run middle school kids. God bless Mark for loving Camp Adventure!

Anyway - here is what his blog said about a conversation Mark was having with some guy:

After telling a guy I was heading out Sunday for another week of Camp Adventure,
he commented...
"C'mon Mark. Is all the effort and time worth it? Don't you have other things to do? Missing sleep and sweating for a week in a rustic camp with Middle-Schoolers seems crazy. Why do you keep doing it? Does it really matter?"

I think it does matter (I've been going to Camp Adventure for the last 35 years) so let me spin the question...Let me ask you, "What matters in your life?"

Ask yourself: "Was there a week of my life that marked me, inspired me and changed me - for the better? What happened during that week? Who made that week so special to me? Why am I still cherishing that week as a formative time in my life?"

It got me to thinking - about a week in my life that marked me - changed me. Without hesitation, the week we went to Russia in 2004.

What about you?

Siberian city built on gold and hydro-power

This is a story about the region where Anya is.

Siberian city built on gold and hydro-power

The world's largest and deepest lake Baikal is situated in the Irkutsk region in eastern Siberia, home to some of Russia's most breathtaking natural wonders. Russia's main gold-producing sites also lie along its shores.

The Siberian region is abundant with many other precious metals, as well as having hydro-electric power.“We’d start our shift at 8 am. If you were 20 minutes late, you could get six months in prison!” recalled Efim Veshchev, a gold-digging veteran, now in his 90s.

The hunt for Siberian gold started on the shores of Baikal more than a century ago. The Irkutsk region still remains one of Russia’s main gold-producing sites.Working in the goldmines was tough and risky and few wanted to take such chances. So the job was often done by prisoners and there were plenty of them here.Since Tsarist times, the city of Irkutsk has been known as a place of exile.

By the end of the 19th century, every second man here was a deported convict, many of them nobles. Over the years, the city’s turned into a real melting pot.

During the Communist years the region’s vast natural resources became a magnet for ambitious projects. In 1954 the construction of the Bratskaya hydroelectric plant started and it now provides power to hundreds of homes and factories.

from: http://www.russiatoday.ru

for today...

I wish I could figure out how to make a link here...anyone know?

I read this on another blog that I frequent called 'bring the rain' (link is in the side bar titled Audrey Caroline). If you haven't been there, and need to be encouraged (or not), check it out. DAILY I read something that Angie (yes, I feel like I am BFFs with the author) said that makes me say WOW!

Through my Bible Study group, I've been trying to find ways to get closer to God. Closeness will allow me to listen and hear His Will better...today, here is what I read on Angie's blog:

I stay close to God by spending time in His Word. It looks small on
paper, I know, but that’s the only way you can consistently walk with Him.
When I’m not reading my Bible faithfully, I feel like the distance creeps up.

“The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing.”
Zephaniah 3:17

Seems so simple - but it is just what I needed to hear (or read)!

update on Jessie

I just got a note from Kim - an update on Jessie's surgery today. Below is the update - please pray for her, her family and the doctors...

Jessie’s cancer has come back and it has spread through her body. The doctor is saying that she has a 20-30% chance of survival, but it does not look good. He said that the fact that it took four years for it to come back is a sign that her chances may be a bit better. She will start chemo and radiation right away.