Please include us in your prayers. We are really struggling right now. We are struggling financially, but more importantly, we are struggling as parents. The last 2 weeks we have seen Sean's darkest side come out full bloom. He has resorted to lying, and stealing, and being mean to other kids. I know that a big part of that is him trying to push and push us to see what it will take for us to give him back. We know that will NEVER happen, no matter what he does. We love him dearly and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God created him to live and grow up in our home as surely as if he had been born here. I say we are struggling because we are at a loss for how to handle it. While we know that he is testing boundaries over and over and over and over again to see if there are any cracks or week spots, but we, as parents who love and adore him, have to discipline him. The struggle is finding out what will get through to him. We have tried so many things, and nothing seems to register for more than a moment. Please pray that God will give us wisdom to do what is right.
I also ask that you pray for our financial situation. We are struggling in that department too. After 18 months, I still can't find a full time job. I have applied to so many different places, many of them multiple times and still nothing. I have been trying to stay away from retail simply because I know that it will require me to work evening and I have wanted to keep my evening free to spend with my family. However, at this point, I don't have much of a choice anymore. I have got to work a job that is going to give me regular hours. The two jobs I have are both "substitute" jobs. One is with Douglas County School System, and the other is with IST, the company I have been with for 3 years. Up until this week, neither of them has really been calling me much. Before this week, I worked 3 days in 5 weeks. Obviously we can't live on that kind of income. So please, pray that God will open some doors really soon. As it is, we are probably going to have to go to our church and ask for help just to make it with the regular bills this month.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Flood waters
Here is our flood update. We are fine. We sit on a hill, so our house is fine. Our only issue has been no water from Monday morning until yesterday afternoon. Even though the water is back on, we have not used it. We are trying to let it run some before we use it. We were able to shower yesterday due to the graciousness of some friend. They let us come to their house and use their shower. We are so grateful!!!
Aletheia's brother's apartment flooded some. He was still very blessed. He lost very little. He has to move out of his apartment on Friday, however. The carpet is ruined and very stinky. However, he and his cat are safe.
We are pretty much stuck right now. Michael can not work because there is no way out of Douglas County. Our schools have been closed since Monday.
Aletheia's brother's apartment flooded some. He was still very blessed. He lost very little. He has to move out of his apartment on Friday, however. The carpet is ruined and very stinky. However, he and his cat are safe.
We are pretty much stuck right now. Michael can not work because there is no way out of Douglas County. Our schools have been closed since Monday.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Sean's second soccer game
Sean had his second soccer game today. We didn't get to take pictures due to the constant rain. He played goalie and forward again and did an amazing job! This time, his team actually won 4 to 3!
Afterward we had a wonderful lunch with Naomi, Amani and Aletheia's Uncle James. It was so nice to spend time with family.
Afterward we had a wonderful lunch with Naomi, Amani and Aletheia's Uncle James. It was so nice to spend time with family.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Sean's first soccer game
Sean played in his first soccer game today! He was amazing. He is fearless and quite a leader for his team. He played goalie and forward. While he didn't make any goals, he blocked the other team from making several. We are so proud!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Asking for prayer
Satan is attacking our family in a powerful way right now. He is attacking us in the area of Sean, our finances, our health, and automobiles. We are asking for prayer.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
First soccer practice
Sean had his first soccer practice tonight. He did very well. He listened and paid attention (well, most of the time) to his coaches. He is on cloud nine!!!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Adeline's birthday
On August 15 we celebrated the first birthday of Sean's second cousin, Adeline. Happy birthday precious girl! We had a marvelous time with the Sennett family. He got to run and play with his first cousin, Amani.
Sean hugging his first cousin, Amani.
Birthday girl, Adeline!
Sean getting double team tickled by Uncle James and Uncle Johnny.
Sweet Adeline!
Sean hugging his first cousin, Amani.
Birthday girl, Adeline!
Sean getting double team tickled by Uncle James and Uncle Johnny.
Sweet Adeline!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
GiGi and Brothers Grimm
On the tenth anniversary of Aletheia's mother's death, this is a tribute to her. This is Catherine Sennett Lee during her senior year at ACC. Isn't she beautiful?
Aletheia's brother, John, produced and directed his second play in Atlanta tonight called The Brothers Grimm. We celebrated afterward. This is John and Amani.
Daddy. AKA Gary Lee
Precious Amani!
We are so proud of you, John!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Success!
We were able to retain Sean in first grade! His teacher has ten years of experience as a special education teacher! I am so excited to see what he can do with another chance! Thank you for your prayers!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Prayers tomorrow
Tomorrow we have a meeting to discuss what grade Sean will be in next year. We are hoping to retain him in 1st grade. We ask for prayers for hearts to hear God's guidance to what is best for Sean.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Kitties, court and kids
On Tuesday, Sean came into the house announcing that he had found "a kitty with no family." He was a precious kitten probably about 6 months old. He had no fleas and seemed well cared for, but he obviously had missed several meals. Michael and I knew we could not keep him. We already have two cats and a dog. We could not afford another animal. We called the vet for advice and ended up taking him to the animal shelter. On the way to the shelter we tried to explain to Sean why we could not keep him. This was definitely NOT my favorite moment as a grown up! The very nice lady at the shelter scanned him and (PRAISE GOD!) he was microchipped. She called Home Again and got his name and address and called his owners. She told Sean that he had just helped the kitty find his home! Sean kissed the kitty good-bye and got in the car smiling! As we pulled out he said, "I sure am going to miss the kitty." Michael and I decided that deserved Chick-fil-A ice cream!
Wednesday morning we had to go to court for the judge to check on Sean. He was a perfect gentleman and got complimented by many different people on how good he looked in his tie! The judge even said he looked better than one of the lawyers! The judge said everything seemed fine and that she would see us again in January unless we are able to finalize by then.
After court we ran some errands and one involved going to a store where Michael used to work part-time until just before we got Sean. The ladies all loved on Sean! One lady, as she was walking away, said we had a beautiful family and all we needed now was a little girl! That got Sean thinking. After a minute he asked if we were going to get more children. I said we would like to. He informed us that he would like a brother AND a sister! We told him we would see what we could do!
Wednesday morning we had to go to court for the judge to check on Sean. He was a perfect gentleman and got complimented by many different people on how good he looked in his tie! The judge even said he looked better than one of the lawyers! The judge said everything seemed fine and that she would see us again in January unless we are able to finalize by then.
After court we ran some errands and one involved going to a store where Michael used to work part-time until just before we got Sean. The ladies all loved on Sean! One lady, as she was walking away, said we had a beautiful family and all we needed now was a little girl! That got Sean thinking. After a minute he asked if we were going to get more children. I said we would like to. He informed us that he would like a brother AND a sister! We told him we would see what we could do!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Soccer evaluations
We signed Sean up for Upwards Soccer. Today was soccer evaluations. Sean had to go through several stations and just show his skills. We were very impressed. Michael has been working with him and at first he did not understand the idea of dribbling the soccer ball. He thought soccer was a form of kickball. Today he dribbled like a pro. We are so proud.
God also orchestrated some events this week that may help us to help Sean. We received some information that may help us keep Sean's counseling and we met a lady who is not only an adoptive mother, but also a special education teacher! What a blessing!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Prayers, prayers and more prayers
God has certainly forced us to our knees repeatedly over the past few days.
First, our new church is going through some re-structuring. The doors will be closing at the end of July until next spring. The church planting group, Stadia, is being brought in to help us grow. We must make some decisions and seek God's hand in our future there.
Second, we must make some decisions about Sean and his schooling. We want to have another IQ test done by an outside, professional source. We have an appointment with a psychologist for the last week of July. However, we keep hearing such wonderful things about the testing that the neuropsychology department at Scottish Rite can show. The problem is that Scottish Rite can't give us an appointment until December. That means that we could not have him retained in 1st grade in August. He would have to complete 2nd grade this year and then, if his IQ come out average, he could be retained in the 2nd grade in May. We don't know what to do. We want to do what is best for Sean, but we don't know what that is or who to ask. We need guidance and prayers. We need God to close some doors so that we know which way to go. We are also still trying to figure out what to do with his Medicaid and counseling.
Third, our new niece, Ruth, was born on June 29. She was taken to the doctor last night and was diagnosed with RSV (a respiratory virus that is highly contagious among children and can be life-threatening). She is in NICU and is expected to be there for 2 more days and in the hospital for up to 2 weeks. Please keep her and her parents in your prayers.
First, our new church is going through some re-structuring. The doors will be closing at the end of July until next spring. The church planting group, Stadia, is being brought in to help us grow. We must make some decisions and seek God's hand in our future there.
Second, we must make some decisions about Sean and his schooling. We want to have another IQ test done by an outside, professional source. We have an appointment with a psychologist for the last week of July. However, we keep hearing such wonderful things about the testing that the neuropsychology department at Scottish Rite can show. The problem is that Scottish Rite can't give us an appointment until December. That means that we could not have him retained in 1st grade in August. He would have to complete 2nd grade this year and then, if his IQ come out average, he could be retained in the 2nd grade in May. We don't know what to do. We want to do what is best for Sean, but we don't know what that is or who to ask. We need guidance and prayers. We need God to close some doors so that we know which way to go. We are also still trying to figure out what to do with his Medicaid and counseling.
Third, our new niece, Ruth, was born on June 29. She was taken to the doctor last night and was diagnosed with RSV (a respiratory virus that is highly contagious among children and can be life-threatening). She is in NICU and is expected to be there for 2 more days and in the hospital for up to 2 weeks. Please keep her and her parents in your prayers.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Catching up again
I have not been so good with updating lately. Here is another catch up session.
Sean continues to learn and grow in God. He made a "present for God" the other day. It was a cross with two American flags around it. I will try to post a picture later. We have found a lawyer who will help us fight the SSI denial. If he is approved for disability due to his developmental delay then we can keep the Medicaid and get him some tutoring. We are continuing to work with an awesome counselor. We are also trying to get an IQ test done on him. Right now he is slated to be in 2nd grade in the fall. His IQ is the determining factor. We work on school stuff every day for a little while. He is making progress, but won't be ready for 2nd grade. We are praying for guidance in this situation. God's will be done.
Michael preached for the first time on June 28th. We had amazing family and friends come out to support him. He did an fantastic job and was so open to God using him! He has been working pretty regularly for IST Management, the company he has worked with off and on for three years. He enjoys the work, but it is an on-call status. During the summer he works regularly, but during the school year...not so much. However, he has a job interview on Monday morning for a full time administrative assistant position at a local private school. Please pray for him!
We have had quite an adventure lately. On Thursday, July 2, Michael, Sean, our dog, Beau and I went hiking at a local state park. It was a gorgeous trail along the side of a river. Well, I was climbing over some rocks and my foot slipped. I fell, catching the other foot between two of the rocks. I felt my ankle pop. Both were throbbing. Michael and I knew there was NO way we could get me back down the trail, so he ended up calling 911. Between my sister and our neighbor, Rene, we got Sean and Beau home. One Fire Rescue unit showed along with an EMT and a park ranger. However, there was no way to get me out along the trail going either way. So, they called in a hook and ladder truck, strapped me to a body board and pulled me up the side of a cliff at a 65 degree angle (sometimes steeper) for over 100 yards. At one point I counted 8 different voices around me pulling me up and there were at least 4 more men at the top with the pulley. Michael was right there with them, helping in any way he could and constantly reminding me he was near. By the end of everything we had two park rangers, two fire trucks, two ambulances, 15 EMTs and Fire Rescue guys and Michael helping! I know how to draw a crowd! I am grateful that God steadied everyone's feet and no one else got hurt on that steep hill!
Three and a half hours after falling, I finally got into the ambulance. Fifteen minutes after that I was in the ER. Two and a half hours after that I was headed home with one foot in a brace and one in an ace bandage. The left one was in the brace because it was the less injured, so I had to put pressure on that foot. The right foot was swollen so badly that I thought it was trying to create it's own zip code and I couldn't put any pressure on it at all. The pain was so bad for several nights that I couldn't sleep more than 90 minutes at a time.
Things have improved. I can now put pressure on both feet, but still have to use the crutches. Both feet are still swollen and I think they are creating never before seen colors! However, the swelling is less than it was. I can also sleep for several hours at a time with the help of Ibuprofen PM. Every night gets a little bit better. Michael and Sean have both been so strong during all of this. They have taken wonderful care of me! My hat is off to them as well as the Fire Rescue team that came to get me!
After all of this excitement, we still managed to go to the local mall on July 4th to watch fireworks. We took Michael's Sportage, put down the back seat, and I could sit with my feet propped up! We were joined by our friends Courtney, Laird and Sandy, Brigit and her daughters Sydney and Alyssa, and my sister Naomi and her daughter Amani. We had a great time. It was good to laugh!
Sean continues to learn and grow in God. He made a "present for God" the other day. It was a cross with two American flags around it. I will try to post a picture later. We have found a lawyer who will help us fight the SSI denial. If he is approved for disability due to his developmental delay then we can keep the Medicaid and get him some tutoring. We are continuing to work with an awesome counselor. We are also trying to get an IQ test done on him. Right now he is slated to be in 2nd grade in the fall. His IQ is the determining factor. We work on school stuff every day for a little while. He is making progress, but won't be ready for 2nd grade. We are praying for guidance in this situation. God's will be done.
Michael preached for the first time on June 28th. We had amazing family and friends come out to support him. He did an fantastic job and was so open to God using him! He has been working pretty regularly for IST Management, the company he has worked with off and on for three years. He enjoys the work, but it is an on-call status. During the summer he works regularly, but during the school year...not so much. However, he has a job interview on Monday morning for a full time administrative assistant position at a local private school. Please pray for him!
We have had quite an adventure lately. On Thursday, July 2, Michael, Sean, our dog, Beau and I went hiking at a local state park. It was a gorgeous trail along the side of a river. Well, I was climbing over some rocks and my foot slipped. I fell, catching the other foot between two of the rocks. I felt my ankle pop. Both were throbbing. Michael and I knew there was NO way we could get me back down the trail, so he ended up calling 911. Between my sister and our neighbor, Rene, we got Sean and Beau home. One Fire Rescue unit showed along with an EMT and a park ranger. However, there was no way to get me out along the trail going either way. So, they called in a hook and ladder truck, strapped me to a body board and pulled me up the side of a cliff at a 65 degree angle (sometimes steeper) for over 100 yards. At one point I counted 8 different voices around me pulling me up and there were at least 4 more men at the top with the pulley. Michael was right there with them, helping in any way he could and constantly reminding me he was near. By the end of everything we had two park rangers, two fire trucks, two ambulances, 15 EMTs and Fire Rescue guys and Michael helping! I know how to draw a crowd! I am grateful that God steadied everyone's feet and no one else got hurt on that steep hill!
Three and a half hours after falling, I finally got into the ambulance. Fifteen minutes after that I was in the ER. Two and a half hours after that I was headed home with one foot in a brace and one in an ace bandage. The left one was in the brace because it was the less injured, so I had to put pressure on that foot. The right foot was swollen so badly that I thought it was trying to create it's own zip code and I couldn't put any pressure on it at all. The pain was so bad for several nights that I couldn't sleep more than 90 minutes at a time.
Things have improved. I can now put pressure on both feet, but still have to use the crutches. Both feet are still swollen and I think they are creating never before seen colors! However, the swelling is less than it was. I can also sleep for several hours at a time with the help of Ibuprofen PM. Every night gets a little bit better. Michael and Sean have both been so strong during all of this. They have taken wonderful care of me! My hat is off to them as well as the Fire Rescue team that came to get me!
After all of this excitement, we still managed to go to the local mall on July 4th to watch fireworks. We took Michael's Sportage, put down the back seat, and I could sit with my feet propped up! We were joined by our friends Courtney, Laird and Sandy, Brigit and her daughters Sydney and Alyssa, and my sister Naomi and her daughter Amani. We had a great time. It was good to laugh!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Sean's birthday
Naomi and Amani
People who love Sean
Candle and Transformers cupcakes
Meeting cousin Amani
Amani and Gee
Sean turned 7 on June 13. We celebrated with a party at Clinton Nature Preserve. We invited many family and friends, and it was so wonderful to see so many people who love my son! He also met his precious cousin Amani for the first time!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
God makes progress!
I had been struggling lately with how we best show God to Sean. Michael keeps assuring me that if we continue to live the way that God instructs and continue to be a good example, then God will take care of the rest. Today we saw progress!
First, at church today Sean memorized the STV (Sean translation version) of Philippians 4:13. The STV is "With God nothing is impossible." Ok, the point is there!
Second, in the car today, Sean is singing along with the praise music on the radio. When John Waller's "While I'm Waiting" came on, Michael and I both choked up while listening to Sean sing at the top of his lungs. That was our theme song while waiting for God to bless us with a child. Now the child He blessed us with is singing that very song! Here is a link for those of you not familiar with the song. This is a video dedicated to families facing infertility. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWI-iZsIKIk
Third, we had an amazing visit with my Dad's family today to celebrate my step-niece's accomplishment of passing the GED. (Congratulations Aryn!!) Yesterday, my step-mother injured her foot. Tonight, while saying his bedtime prayer, which is usually the same every night, Sean asked God to help Mimi Carol's foot feel better. This is the first time he has prayed for something without being prompted. It brought tears to my eyes. We have taught him to apologize to God when he has been disobedient, but we have not yet taught him to pray for someone who is hurt.
Ok, God, we see the progress! Thanks!
First, at church today Sean memorized the STV (Sean translation version) of Philippians 4:13. The STV is "With God nothing is impossible." Ok, the point is there!
Second, in the car today, Sean is singing along with the praise music on the radio. When John Waller's "While I'm Waiting" came on, Michael and I both choked up while listening to Sean sing at the top of his lungs. That was our theme song while waiting for God to bless us with a child. Now the child He blessed us with is singing that very song! Here is a link for those of you not familiar with the song. This is a video dedicated to families facing infertility. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWI-iZsIKIk
Third, we had an amazing visit with my Dad's family today to celebrate my step-niece's accomplishment of passing the GED. (Congratulations Aryn!!) Yesterday, my step-mother injured her foot. Tonight, while saying his bedtime prayer, which is usually the same every night, Sean asked God to help Mimi Carol's foot feel better. This is the first time he has prayed for something without being prompted. It brought tears to my eyes. We have taught him to apologize to God when he has been disobedient, but we have not yet taught him to pray for someone who is hurt.
Ok, God, we see the progress! Thanks!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Busy busy!!!
We have been so busy lately that we have been unable to update our blog! It has been quite an eventful month! This past weekend we attended the wedding of Aletheia's cousin, Alan and his beautiful new wife, Cindy. The pictures above are from the wedding. We wish them all the happiness in the world!
We are currently finishing up the school year. While Sean has made incredible gains, we feel that he would benefit greatly from another year in the first grade. He is still very behind where he should be at this point in his schooling. However, his recent achievements are hindering that. We are receiving amazing support from our school administration who are going to bat for us with the powers that be at the county level. Please pray that God would move and that His will be done, not ours.
We are also struggling through a Catch 22 situation. Sean has been receiving some phenomenal counseling since he came to live with us. It has been paid for by Medicaid, which he receives because we are non-relatives caring for him. However, if we finalize the adoption, the Medicaid benefits stop. Our insurance does not cover anything comparable. A co-worker insists that because of his age he should receive Medicaid longer. We are seeking how to best help our little man. Please pray for this situation also.
Meanwhile, Michael has finished all of his coursework for his CAD Architectural Certificate!! We are so proud of him! Now we pray as he searches for a job. He has also been offered the opportunity to preach for the first time at our new church home. We are so excited to see how God plans to use this amazing man.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Catching up
It's been a while since either of us posted. We have been busy getting through life with a 6 year old. Sean's report card was good. He is weak in reading and math, which we knew, but he is very gifted in grasping history and science concepts!
Michael turned 31 on April 1. We enjoyed celebrating with Sean.
On April 3 we attended a Gwinnett Gladiator Ice Hockey game with the Doves, and their son, William, who is only 2 weeks older than Sean. I have included a shot of the boys with Maximus, the Gladiator mascot.
On April 4 Sean and Michael attended a model train expo in Norcross. They had a blast! Good boy bonding time. Later that day Sean rode his new bike without training wheels for the first time! We are so proud of him!
Sunday I had a revelation: I have an amazing husband. In my 31 years I have met many different kinds of men. God truly gave me a heart for the one man who matches what I want and need the most. Michael's priorities are honesly God first, and family second. That is exactly what I have prayed my entire life for. That is how God intended it to be. Michael wants nothing more than to be a strong man of God and a strong father and husband. Thank you, Lord, for my precious husband, and thank you, Michael, for seeking God's heart. I love you!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Lost a tooth!
Yesterday afternoon Sean showed me that he had a loose tooth. It didn't look too bad, and besides, wouldn't he have mentioned it before if it was really loose? Well, after we put him to bed, we were watching television in the living room. We heard him call for Michael. After a minute, Michael called for me! Sean's tooth had come out! We calmed Sean down and got him to lay back down. Then we had to go figure out the tooth fairy thing! It sure seems like we are doing this parent adventure on fast forward!
We also met with Sean's psychiatrist yesterday afternoon. He was amazed at the difference he saw in Sean since he saw him last month. He was supportive of our cutting down on Sean's medication. However, he spent the time talking to us, not Sean. I thought psychiatrists were supposed to do some counseling, too, not just write a prescription. We were in there 15 minutes. Fortunately, the guardian ad litem is arranging for some counseling for Sean. Maybe that will give him some real coping skills and truly help with the trauma he has experienced.
We also met with Sean's psychiatrist yesterday afternoon. He was amazed at the difference he saw in Sean since he saw him last month. He was supportive of our cutting down on Sean's medication. However, he spent the time talking to us, not Sean. I thought psychiatrists were supposed to do some counseling, too, not just write a prescription. We were in there 15 minutes. Fortunately, the guardian ad litem is arranging for some counseling for Sean. Maybe that will give him some real coping skills and truly help with the trauma he has experienced.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Sean Prays
Ok several days ago, I told y'all about Sean praying for the first time. He simply repeated what I said. Hearing that sent my heart soaring. That was nothing compared to tonight. Tonight he prayed all on his own. I prompted him to pray and was going to let him repeat what I said. However, he started the prayer all on his own and with only a VERY small amount of prompting he prayed all on his own tonight. Right now the prayers we pray focus mostly on just thanking God for people and animals, but I figure that is the best place to start. I know that it has to bring a sweet tear to God's eye to hear the prayers of one so innocent and precious because it certainly brings a tear to my eye.
I must say that I am continually amazed by God's blessings. He has surrounded us with so many people that we can go to for support and for advice and guidance. I don't know where I would be without people like my mom. Sean acts so much like I did when I was his age that I am constantly calling my mom to give me advice on how to handle him. I figure I might as well go to the expert on this.
Thank you to the rest of you for your wisdom, advice and guidance. We couldn't do this without you.
I must say that I am continually amazed by God's blessings. He has surrounded us with so many people that we can go to for support and for advice and guidance. I don't know where I would be without people like my mom. Sean acts so much like I did when I was his age that I am constantly calling my mom to give me advice on how to handle him. I figure I might as well go to the expert on this.
Thank you to the rest of you for your wisdom, advice and guidance. We couldn't do this without you.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Sean meets Micah
This morning Sean finally asked about the ultrasound photo hanging on our wall. After the miscarriage, as part of my healing, I used some of my scrapbooking materials to make a nice mat and framed our one ultrasound of Micah. It hangs in our dining/living room. Sean asked me about it. I was instantly very emotional and had to leave the room. Michael explained that I had been pregnant, but the baby died and is in Heaven with my mother. Sean was very quiet and thoughtful. He came over and put his arm around me and gave me a kiss.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Shower and first family photo
On Sunday, Gammie took our first family photo together, plus Beau.
Today my school had a "welcome home" shower for us. Here are some pictures.
We also have a praise! Sean had a good day at school today! We had to tell him that if he misbehaved any more this week he could not attend a friend's birthday party on Sunday, but he behaved!Monday, March 9, 2009
Prayers needed
Parenting has been going as smoothly as possible for us. Sean is a joy and has made our home feel complete. Right now I have a driveway full of sidewalk chalk drawings and LOVE it!!!!
We do need some prayers for wisdom. Sean is acting out in school. We are trying to discipline him while still emphasizing our love for him and his permanence here. We would appreciate any prayers you can send our way in that department.
Meanwhile, we had an IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting for him on Friday. We sat down with his special education teachers and got some very good reports. He is making progress. All of his teachers report that he is a much happier child since coming to live with us. However, we are planning to have him repeat first grade next year. While he is progressing, he is just now where he should be at the end of kindergarten. Since his birthday is in the summer, holding him back will be easier. We hope that this will give him the head start and self-confidence he needs to succeed further.
We do need some prayers for wisdom. Sean is acting out in school. We are trying to discipline him while still emphasizing our love for him and his permanence here. We would appreciate any prayers you can send our way in that department.
Meanwhile, we had an IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting for him on Friday. We sat down with his special education teachers and got some very good reports. He is making progress. All of his teachers report that he is a much happier child since coming to live with us. However, we are planning to have him repeat first grade next year. While he is progressing, he is just now where he should be at the end of kindergarten. Since his birthday is in the summer, holding him back will be easier. We hope that this will give him the head start and self-confidence he needs to succeed further.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
They joys of parenting
Ok, let me just ath I really thought my heart was going to explode with love and joy tonight.
"Why?" you ask.
Well, I am glad you did. I got to experience listening to my son pray for the very first time. Every night at bedtime we all climb into his bed (he has a full size bed), and we read a story. Right now we are reading Prince of Egypt. It is a long book so we read a few pages each night. After we read pray. I always ask him if he would like to pray. He usually says no, so I pray. Well, tonight I asked him and his response was, "I am not any good at praying." I used a technique that my mom told me used with my niece Sydney. She told me to have him repeat after me. I asked him if he would like to do it, and he said sure. As I prayed and was thanking God for people, he would repeat it. He even started adding people himself. It gave me such great joy to hear it. He is still really new to all of this prayer stuff, so it really is a big deal. This just blessed his mom and I so much.
"Why?" you ask.
Well, I am glad you did. I got to experience listening to my son pray for the very first time. Every night at bedtime we all climb into his bed (he has a full size bed), and we read a story. Right now we are reading Prince of Egypt. It is a long book so we read a few pages each night. After we read pray. I always ask him if he would like to pray. He usually says no, so I pray. Well, tonight I asked him and his response was, "I am not any good at praying." I used a technique that my mom told me used with my niece Sydney. She told me to have him repeat after me. I asked him if he would like to do it, and he said sure. As I prayed and was thanking God for people, he would repeat it. He even started adding people himself. It gave me such great joy to hear it. He is still really new to all of this prayer stuff, so it really is a big deal. This just blessed his mom and I so much.
Monday, March 2, 2009
SNOW!
We realized we still hadn't posted pictures of Sean. Here he is from Read Across America Day today at School.
The past two nights have been much easier. There has been no sleepwalking or bedwetting. Getting ready for school today was a little tough, but we just need to get into a routine.
SNOW!! We had about 3 inches in our yard on Sunday.
Michael, Beau, our neighbor Camden, and Sean.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
"I love you"
Last night we had a long night. Sean gave us new experiences in sleepwalking and bedwetting. We had to bathe him at 8:30am because he had created Lake Sean in the bed. After the bath we checked out the clothes he had brought with him and discovered that we had no short sleeve clothes.
We had a simple breakfast and headed out for some shopping. We went by to see Aletheia's friend, Miss Jennifer. Then we headed to Ross to shop clearance racks and to Target to spend the gift card from Stacie. He insisted on getting a 4 pack of Tech Decks (finger skateboards) so he could give one to Camden and one to Nick next door. We also got a baby monitor so we can hear him moving during the lovely sleepwalking episodes. We also found some short sleeve shirts on clearance and bought little things that I never thought about needing: kid toothpaste, shampoo and bubble bath. We could tell he was getting a little tired, but he was a real trooper.
We were a little concerned about the reaction he had after giving him his medication. We gave him his daily medicine along with some Mucinex for the nasty cough he had when he first woke up. It zoned him out for about 45 minutes. He sat staring without saying a word. I am going to have to ask a doctor about that combination.
We had dinner and play time with Rene, David, Camden and Nick again. We had a surprise visit from Mrs. Loftin, our school counselor. She found us at Rene's house with a present for Sean. He got a cool new V-Smile Cyberpocket! Sean is super excited to play with it, but we have to figure it out first!
We had bath time and story time. As we were leaving his room, he said "I love you!" Yes, our hearts are officially melted!
We had a simple breakfast and headed out for some shopping. We went by to see Aletheia's friend, Miss Jennifer. Then we headed to Ross to shop clearance racks and to Target to spend the gift card from Stacie. He insisted on getting a 4 pack of Tech Decks (finger skateboards) so he could give one to Camden and one to Nick next door. We also got a baby monitor so we can hear him moving during the lovely sleepwalking episodes. We also found some short sleeve shirts on clearance and bought little things that I never thought about needing: kid toothpaste, shampoo and bubble bath. We could tell he was getting a little tired, but he was a real trooper.
We were a little concerned about the reaction he had after giving him his medication. We gave him his daily medicine along with some Mucinex for the nasty cough he had when he first woke up. It zoned him out for about 45 minutes. He sat staring without saying a word. I am going to have to ask a doctor about that combination.
We had dinner and play time with Rene, David, Camden and Nick again. We had a surprise visit from Mrs. Loftin, our school counselor. She found us at Rene's house with a present for Sean. He got a cool new V-Smile Cyberpocket! Sean is super excited to play with it, but we have to figure it out first!
We had bath time and story time. As we were leaving his room, he said "I love you!" Yes, our hearts are officially melted!
Friday, February 27, 2009
His first day with us.
Today was the big day. Sean came home to live with us.
After missing school yesterday due to a sinus infection, I (Aletheia) returned to work today and had an email from Sean's teacher. She said that she asked him where he was going today. He responded, "To live with the Leavitts..............forever!" She said he was on cloud nine!
He came to my classroom after school today very excited about a book he had borrowed from his teacher for the weekend. He sat down in the middle of the walk way in the office to show it to me. I got him to pack back up and headed to the car. We picked up Michael and Beau and headed to our bi-weekly visit to the chiropractor. While in the driveway, our mailman, Shane, pulled into the driveway to deliver a package to Sean from the Hanna family! Sean was thrilled with his mail! He held the box all the way to the chiropractor and back! (Thanks Stacie and family!) In the car Sean was telling us something that happened in gym class and he mentioned his "leg elbow." Michael and I just looked at each other. After a repeat we realized he was talking about his knee!
After returning home and opening the two light sabers and books (and cool bubble wrap!) Sean insisted on heading next door to show our neighbor Camden his new toys. There we got more books and clothes. (Thanks Rene!) Sean and Camden played so hard their cheeks were red! Even Camden's brother, Nick, got in on the action!
This afternoon we talked to Sean about what he was to call us. We gave him a few options, one of which was Mom and Dad. He smiled from ear to ear and said, "Ok, Mom and Dad." He called us that all night. It's an amazing feeling to hear that for the first time!
About 7pm I headed home to start dinner while Sean and Michael went to his guardian's house to pick up his clothes. We had Camden's family over for dinner and more playing.
At 9pm Michael got Sean started on getting ready for bed. We read "Berenstain Bears and The Truth" and said prayers. By 9:45 Sean was absolutely zonked! We can't keep from checking on him every few minutes. Right now he is asleep in the most uncomfortable looking position: his shoulders are turned sideways while his hips are flat on the bed. He is almost sitting upright! I don't know how in the world he is asleep like that, but he is.
This has been the most surreal day! It's amazing to think that this one little person now depends completely on us for everything. It's even more amazing to think that this person is now one of the most important people in our lives, and we know so little about him. We are just trying to take one day at a time and pray our way through.
After missing school yesterday due to a sinus infection, I (Aletheia) returned to work today and had an email from Sean's teacher. She said that she asked him where he was going today. He responded, "To live with the Leavitts..............forever!" She said he was on cloud nine!
He came to my classroom after school today very excited about a book he had borrowed from his teacher for the weekend. He sat down in the middle of the walk way in the office to show it to me. I got him to pack back up and headed to the car. We picked up Michael and Beau and headed to our bi-weekly visit to the chiropractor. While in the driveway, our mailman, Shane, pulled into the driveway to deliver a package to Sean from the Hanna family! Sean was thrilled with his mail! He held the box all the way to the chiropractor and back! (Thanks Stacie and family!) In the car Sean was telling us something that happened in gym class and he mentioned his "leg elbow." Michael and I just looked at each other. After a repeat we realized he was talking about his knee!
After returning home and opening the two light sabers and books (and cool bubble wrap!) Sean insisted on heading next door to show our neighbor Camden his new toys. There we got more books and clothes. (Thanks Rene!) Sean and Camden played so hard their cheeks were red! Even Camden's brother, Nick, got in on the action!
This afternoon we talked to Sean about what he was to call us. We gave him a few options, one of which was Mom and Dad. He smiled from ear to ear and said, "Ok, Mom and Dad." He called us that all night. It's an amazing feeling to hear that for the first time!
About 7pm I headed home to start dinner while Sean and Michael went to his guardian's house to pick up his clothes. We had Camden's family over for dinner and more playing.
At 9pm Michael got Sean started on getting ready for bed. We read "Berenstain Bears and The Truth" and said prayers. By 9:45 Sean was absolutely zonked! We can't keep from checking on him every few minutes. Right now he is asleep in the most uncomfortable looking position: his shoulders are turned sideways while his hips are flat on the bed. He is almost sitting upright! I don't know how in the world he is asleep like that, but he is.
This has been the most surreal day! It's amazing to think that this one little person now depends completely on us for everything. It's even more amazing to think that this person is now one of the most important people in our lives, and we know so little about him. We are just trying to take one day at a time and pray our way through.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
We have custody!
This morning we were granted custody of our six year old little boy: Sean! He will be coming to live with us on Friday afternoon.
Court this morning was overwhelming, but painless. After stating our names, nothing else was really required of us. We sat and listened to Sean's guardian testify, and heard a little more about his history. This baby is going to need some intense love and support from everyone in his little world! He has been hurt by almost everyone around him. He needs to know that he is loved and wanted unconditionally. We also saw just how much this guardian cares for Sean. He was emotional on the stand. He just does not feel that he can give Sean the future he deserves.
At the end, the judge looked at us and said, "Congratulations! You just became parents VERY fast!"
We were done with court by 9:30am, but were tied up at the courthouse with our lawyer and paperwork until 10:30. Then we ran by my school to get some paperwork, and ended up seeing Sean. We didn't say anything about court. We are letting his guardian tell him everything tonight. We spent the rest of the day running errands and filling out paperwork to get everything ready for Sean.
Thank you for all of your prayers and kind words. You have pulled us through this experience so far. We will continue to need those prayers as we now learn how to parent this precious gift from God.
We will be pursuing adoption in the very near future.
Court this morning was overwhelming, but painless. After stating our names, nothing else was really required of us. We sat and listened to Sean's guardian testify, and heard a little more about his history. This baby is going to need some intense love and support from everyone in his little world! He has been hurt by almost everyone around him. He needs to know that he is loved and wanted unconditionally. We also saw just how much this guardian cares for Sean. He was emotional on the stand. He just does not feel that he can give Sean the future he deserves.
At the end, the judge looked at us and said, "Congratulations! You just became parents VERY fast!"
We were done with court by 9:30am, but were tied up at the courthouse with our lawyer and paperwork until 10:30. Then we ran by my school to get some paperwork, and ended up seeing Sean. We didn't say anything about court. We are letting his guardian tell him everything tonight. We spent the rest of the day running errands and filling out paperwork to get everything ready for Sean.
Thank you for all of your prayers and kind words. You have pulled us through this experience so far. We will continue to need those prayers as we now learn how to parent this precious gift from God.
We will be pursuing adoption in the very near future.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Court Tomorrow
Please keep us in your prayers tomorrow. We have to be at court around 8am tomorrow. We will find out then exactly how this is all going to play out. We are both extremely nervous. We are comforted by both your prayers and by knowing that our lawyer is going to be there with us. We will post tomorrow to let everyone know how it went.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Second Visit: Child meets Gammie and Popi
We had a second visit with our child today. As many of you know just from reading our blog we have been extremely busy lately and this was the first time we have really had to schedule a visit with him. When we called his guardian, he was very excited for us to come get him. The child had been asking about us quite a bit.
We picked him up about 3:30 or so and drove out to Oxford where my (Michael) parents live. We really wanted the child to meet them and for them to meet this child. We of course took the dog with us as we do every time we go to see them. My parents still had some toys in their house that we all played with when we were growing up. These were the original Little People. Some of you remember these. They looked like thimbles with heads. They had no legs or arms. I had the Fire Station and Airport complete with plane and helicopter. My sister's had the house and the town. It was really neat to watch him play with the same toys that I had played with when I was his age. Something that was really cool to see was when he would find a small plastic chip in the bottom of one of the vehicles or chairs, he would take it to my dad and my dad would actually get up and go into his work room and get it out. He would have to use a drill to get most of those out, but just that he was willing to do that was cool.
We let him play for a while and he really had fun. We then took him to McDonald's for dinner. He devoured his food. Once he finished I let him go play on the playground. He played for quite a while by himself, but eventually another child showed up and played with him. They had alot of fun and when it was time to go his cheeks were extremely red from running and playing so hard.
We went back to Gammie and Popi's house to get Beau and then we headed home. He spent most of the time watching the planes that were circling the airport.
Overall it was a great trip. We really enjoyed being able to pick my parents brains when it came to tips on how to raise a child like this. I am truly blessed that I have such an amazing relationship with my parents now. As many people can attest, that has not always been the case. Now, I know I can go to my parents with anything in the world and they will listen, and offer advice. I warned my mom that we would probably call them alot to get their advice on things, and she said they would always be there, but they would do their best to only give it when it is asked for. I really appreciated that.
My dad always told me that the older he got the more intelligent his parents got. I realize now just what he meant and just how true that statement really is. My parents are a wealth of wisdom and knowledge and will be a HUGE help when it comes to being a parent.
We picked him up about 3:30 or so and drove out to Oxford where my (Michael) parents live. We really wanted the child to meet them and for them to meet this child. We of course took the dog with us as we do every time we go to see them. My parents still had some toys in their house that we all played with when we were growing up. These were the original Little People. Some of you remember these. They looked like thimbles with heads. They had no legs or arms. I had the Fire Station and Airport complete with plane and helicopter. My sister's had the house and the town. It was really neat to watch him play with the same toys that I had played with when I was his age. Something that was really cool to see was when he would find a small plastic chip in the bottom of one of the vehicles or chairs, he would take it to my dad and my dad would actually get up and go into his work room and get it out. He would have to use a drill to get most of those out, but just that he was willing to do that was cool.
We let him play for a while and he really had fun. We then took him to McDonald's for dinner. He devoured his food. Once he finished I let him go play on the playground. He played for quite a while by himself, but eventually another child showed up and played with him. They had alot of fun and when it was time to go his cheeks were extremely red from running and playing so hard.
We went back to Gammie and Popi's house to get Beau and then we headed home. He spent most of the time watching the planes that were circling the airport.
Overall it was a great trip. We really enjoyed being able to pick my parents brains when it came to tips on how to raise a child like this. I am truly blessed that I have such an amazing relationship with my parents now. As many people can attest, that has not always been the case. Now, I know I can go to my parents with anything in the world and they will listen, and offer advice. I warned my mom that we would probably call them alot to get their advice on things, and she said they would always be there, but they would do their best to only give it when it is asked for. I really appreciated that.
My dad always told me that the older he got the more intelligent his parents got. I realize now just what he meant and just how true that statement really is. My parents are a wealth of wisdom and knowledge and will be a HUGE help when it comes to being a parent.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
We have.......
a lawyer! A local Douglasville lawyer has given us an AMAZING fee for his services on the adoption. It is such a blessing! He will join us in court on the 25th, and he is calling the guardian's lawyer back for us. This is such a comfort! We are so grateful for his help. His name is Chris Wynn.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Brandon, FL visit
On February 13, Michael, Beau and I headed to Tampa and Brandon, Florida to visit Michael's grandfather. We were able to visit with Grampa and Michael's Uncle Tom and Aunt Carol. I had never met Michael's Grampa before. He is an amazing man with fascinating stories about World War II. I feel so blessed to have been able to talk with him. We hope to be able to see him again soon.On Valentine's Night we accidentally found a tiny restaurant on the edge of Tampa Bay called That's Amore. We had an amazing evening and some of the best Italian food we have ever had!!! There was live music and we were able to dance.
Sunday night, after visiting with Tom, Carol and Grampa, we headed to the Florida State Fair. It was an interesting opportunity to people watch and eat tons of unhealthy food!
Monday we headed to Winter Haven, where Michael grew up spending summers with his Grampa and Grandma. It was so cool to hear his memories and see the places where he played as a child. I feel I got to know a different side of him. That afternoon we headed to Honeymoon Island near Clearwater. This was my first visit to Florida. I had never seen the Gulf of Mexico. We were almost blown away by the wind, and the Gulf tried to eat one of my sandals, but we had a great time. Beau was not a fan of the water. Too much like bath time. However, he found the sand to be very enjoyable.
While in Florida we received a message from a lawyer for our child's guardian. I have not been able to get in touch with her yet, but we will attempt that again tomorrow. We are also meeting with an adoption lawyer tomorrow afternoon. We are still a go for the 25th.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Second home visit and brag
We had our second home visit on Wednesday night. This one was with a representative from DFCS. They were involved in the situation at some point and just had to come check us out before they could give a recommendation. She was very nice and didn't see any problems. Beau made friends with her, too! She made a few suggestions that we are looking into.
We are headed to Brandon, FL this weekend to visit with Michael's grandfather. Please pray for our travels.
I want to brag on my brilliant husband! He is in his fourth quarter working on his AutoCAD certification. He has finished this quarter early (the second one he has finished early) and is already working on his fifth quarter's work! He is also still carrying a 4.0!!!! I am so proud of him. He is such a natural at this. I don't understand it all, but everyone at the college is very impressed with him! He is on track to graduate in June!
I got to visit with our little boy today at school while fighting our way through homework. He informed me that he has a girlfriend and made her a Valentine. He had made her a little heart cut out of notebook paper and decorated with marker. He had also drawn another picture of the two of them together. It was cute! I asked who she was and his response was "Don't worry, she's my size!" Um, not sure what he thought I was asking. It was hilarious!
A public thank you to Michelle R. for her gifts for us and our boy. He will love playing with the Legos the next time he comes over! I can't wait to put a family photo in the gorgeous frame!
We are headed to Brandon, FL this weekend to visit with Michael's grandfather. Please pray for our travels.
I want to brag on my brilliant husband! He is in his fourth quarter working on his AutoCAD certification. He has finished this quarter early (the second one he has finished early) and is already working on his fifth quarter's work! He is also still carrying a 4.0!!!! I am so proud of him. He is such a natural at this. I don't understand it all, but everyone at the college is very impressed with him! He is on track to graduate in June!
I got to visit with our little boy today at school while fighting our way through homework. He informed me that he has a girlfriend and made her a Valentine. He had made her a little heart cut out of notebook paper and decorated with marker. He had also drawn another picture of the two of them together. It was cute! I asked who she was and his response was "Don't worry, she's my size!" Um, not sure what he thought I was asking. It was hilarious!
A public thank you to Michelle R. for her gifts for us and our boy. He will love playing with the Legos the next time he comes over! I can't wait to put a family photo in the gorgeous frame!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Disappointment
We were supposed to have the little boy on Saturday for another play date. However, on Friday he was out of school sick. I called his guardian and checked on him. He said to call on Saturday and we would see if he was feeling any better.
Saturday we called the phone number a total of six times throughout the day. We kept getting the same phone company recorded message saying the person we were calling did not answer and to try our call again later. So, we didn't get to spend time with him on Saturday. That really stinks because we won't get to see him outside of school again until next week. This week is just too packed.
This morning when I saw the little boy he said that the phone we were calling was lost and had to be replaced. I guess they got a new number, too.
Wednesday is our DFCS home visit. Prayers are requested.
Also, Michael has a job interview at the college he attends for a bookstore assistant on Tuesday at 4:30pm. It would be regular work as opposed to the on call positions he has now. We are looking for God's leading in this matter. The on call positions pay more, but this would be a regular check. Just pray for us to have the courage to follow God's leading.
Saturday we called the phone number a total of six times throughout the day. We kept getting the same phone company recorded message saying the person we were calling did not answer and to try our call again later. So, we didn't get to spend time with him on Saturday. That really stinks because we won't get to see him outside of school again until next week. This week is just too packed.
This morning when I saw the little boy he said that the phone we were calling was lost and had to be replaced. I guess they got a new number, too.
Wednesday is our DFCS home visit. Prayers are requested.
Also, Michael has a job interview at the college he attends for a bookstore assistant on Tuesday at 4:30pm. It would be regular work as opposed to the on call positions he has now. We are looking for God's leading in this matter. The on call positions pay more, but this would be a regular check. Just pray for us to have the courage to follow God's leading.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Another thought
This slipped my mind when I posted late last night. Yesterday when Michael was playing with the child in what will be his room, I had to leave the room for a minute. When I was coming back down the hall, I could hear them laughing together. I just stopped and enjoyed it! That is one of the main things life is all about for me - the laughter of children, especially one I hope to share with the wonderful man I married.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Our first play date
The child came over this afternoon and spent about 4 hours with us. We ran a few errands and then came home to play. He kept calling things "our" and "my". It was "my" room and "our" dog. It was cool. And scary. He seemed very happy. He and Michael had some very deep Lego discussions and they made all kinds of things out of Legos and Lincoln Logs. He was a little hesitant around the animals, but they will get used to each other. We went next door and let him play with our neighbor who is 2 years older than him. We had dinner and then took him back to his guardian's house. Overall it was a VERY nice evening.
More news and play date
Yesterday we received a phone call from a DFCS case worker. She has been involved in the child's case somehow. She has to come do a second home visit on the 11th and 4:30. Yay, fun.
We went up to the courthouse to sign permission forms for the guardian ad litem to run a criminal background check on each of us. We also had to complete a drug screening. We received very high tech looking cups. They were kinda cool! They told you the results within about 2 minutes. I was fascinated! Our court date was confirmed as February 25 at 8:00am.
We received a bit of a financial blow. Please pray as we work though this.
We also confirmed our play date with the child for this afternoon. He will come home from school with us (Michael is substituting at my school today) and spend about 4 hours with us. We are thrilled, but also nervous. It has been a while since either of us spent this amount of time around a 6 year old. Yesterday when talking with the child he asked if he was coming to live with us today. I said no, but he was coming to visit. Then he asked if we had a weiner dog. Um, no idea where that came from. He seems excited. We stopped at Wal Mart last night and picked up a booster seat for my car.
Please continue to pray for us. Satan is working overtime on me right now. I am the worrier in the marriage and he is using that to make me doubt many many things. Also pray for Michael's strength as he tries to walk me through this. Some of you may know, but I came off of an anti-depressant around Thanksgiving that I had been on since 2002. I am having to re-learn how to handle stress and worry. Yesterday gave me a real work out.
We went up to the courthouse to sign permission forms for the guardian ad litem to run a criminal background check on each of us. We also had to complete a drug screening. We received very high tech looking cups. They were kinda cool! They told you the results within about 2 minutes. I was fascinated! Our court date was confirmed as February 25 at 8:00am.
We received a bit of a financial blow. Please pray as we work though this.
We also confirmed our play date with the child for this afternoon. He will come home from school with us (Michael is substituting at my school today) and spend about 4 hours with us. We are thrilled, but also nervous. It has been a while since either of us spent this amount of time around a 6 year old. Yesterday when talking with the child he asked if he was coming to live with us today. I said no, but he was coming to visit. Then he asked if we had a weiner dog. Um, no idea where that came from. He seems excited. We stopped at Wal Mart last night and picked up a booster seat for my car.
Please continue to pray for us. Satan is working overtime on me right now. I am the worrier in the marriage and he is using that to make me doubt many many things. Also pray for Michael's strength as he tries to walk me through this. Some of you may know, but I came off of an anti-depressant around Thanksgiving that I had been on since 2002. I am having to re-learn how to handle stress and worry. Yesterday gave me a real work out.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Dates are good things
Dates are such wonderful things. They give you days to look forward to. Because someone knows my birthday, they know when to give me presents and they can look forward to giving me gifts. I know what the date is for Christmas so I can plan on what I am going to get my family. The most wonderful thing about when a date is singled out is that it gives you time to prepare for what is coming on that date.
Well, we have finally been given a date. Our custody situation comes before the judge on February 25th. The guardian ad litem says they want the custody to be turned over to us on that day. We are very excited. We are very relieved. We are planning on going to Florida on Valentine's Day weekend. This will make it possible for us to keep our plans to go see my grandfather. This will also give us time to prepare and get more of the things he needs.
We can't thank all you enough that have been praying for us and keeping up with what is going on with us. We are more than grateful. Thank you is very small word, but please know that we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your prayers are very appreciated.
Well, we have finally been given a date. Our custody situation comes before the judge on February 25th. The guardian ad litem says they want the custody to be turned over to us on that day. We are very excited. We are very relieved. We are planning on going to Florida on Valentine's Day weekend. This will make it possible for us to keep our plans to go see my grandfather. This will also give us time to prepare and get more of the things he needs.
We can't thank all you enough that have been praying for us and keeping up with what is going on with us. We are more than grateful. Thank you is very small word, but please know that we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your prayers are very appreciated.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
The blessing of friends
Today two friends from church gave us a huge blessing. They offered to buy toys for the child's room. With him possibly coming over to visit on Wednesday, our bare room was quite depressing. Christy came and took us to Wal Mart and gave us instructions to buy toys for him. What amazing kindness and generosity!
Christy and Richard, as we said today, "thank you" just seems inadequate. Your gift and your friendship have been such a blessing. We know you didn't do this for recognition, but we wanted to express our gratitude publicly. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for you, I always pray with joy." Phil. 1: 3-4
Christy and Richard, as we said today, "thank you" just seems inadequate. Your gift and your friendship have been such a blessing. We know you didn't do this for recognition, but we wanted to express our gratitude publicly. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for you, I always pray with joy." Phil. 1: 3-4
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Home visit update
First, let me just say for laughs that when I first started typing this the blog was translating my typing into Hindi!!! It amused me greatly!
Last night the guardian ad litem came to our house for a home visit. Some people have asked what that is. Basically it's where they come to your home and ask a bunch of questions about you and your marriage and family and all kinds of things to see if you seem to be an acceptable home for a child.
Michael and I had been cleaning and straightening up the house for weeks. When both of you work full time AND are going to school the neatness of your home tends to fall by the wayside. The worst part was the desk and the table that sits behind the desk! I didn't realize I had accumulated so many books for my doctorate!
When she got here we sat in the living room and talked. At first it was formal stuff like names, birth dates, work information, etc. Then she started asking how we would discipline! That one was kinda tough. When you ask me that I fall into teacher mode. Fortunately, Michael remembered how friends told us they answered that (Thanks, Zack and Jenn!) and answered it well. She also asked us about our families and our relationships with them. She asked what we do for fun and about our church, since what we do for fun often revolves around church or people from church. The conversation turned into chatting about many things, including recent news stories. We learned some about her, too, which was nice.
One thing that came up was if we wanted more children. We told her about losing Micah and that while we were not actively pursuing pregnancy and don't feel led to use any fertility treatments, we would be thrilled to have children of our own. We also told her that we would love to adopt again one day but after giving this child time to become secure that he is loved and this is his home. She seemed fine with that and even joked that as soon as this adoption is final we will get pregnant!
A few things made us a little nervous. First, she brought up how, although it is VERY unlikely, this child's parents could come back and fight us for him if we try to adopt. This is not going to stop us from trying, but the idea made me sick to my stomach. Second, the guardian the child is currently with is threatening to put him in foster care even though he knows we are trying to get custody of him. That would give us a LOT more hoops to jump through. She asked if we would rather have him go to foster care or bring him here very soon. We said bring him here. She kept mentioning that if we let him go to foster care we could get a lot of government assistance. We told her we didn't care about that. We want to know he is safe. We don't want any government assistance. We just want him.
After two hours, Michael said he wanted to show her the room we have set up for the child. She commented that we need more toys. Michael told her how the bedroom was done in Superman while the bathroom was being done in Notre Dame colors. That started a football conversation! She jokingly said she might reconsider approving us since Michael was a Notre Dame fan!!! As she left she said that although it felt like we were chatting, that is the best way she can truly get to know us. Then she said the words we were hoping for: "I feel good about this!!!" We were over the moon!
The guardian ad litem is meeting with the child's guardian on Monday. She is going to tell him how she felt about our meeting and ask him some of the questions we had. She is also going to suggest that he start allowing us to spend some time with the child away from the school. She is going to try to get us a dinner date with him on Wednesday night and maybe some time next Saturday. She also made other suggestions about transitioning him smoothly into our home. She is also going to arrange for some therapy for the child to help with some of the things he has been through. Now we wait for the guardian's response.
We walked her out and showed her our yard (she had asked). Then Michael and I came in and just sat. We had been so stressed that it was a huge relief! It's insane to sit with someone who could keep you from getting a child!
Thank you for all of your prayers for us as we jumped this huge hurdle. Please keep us and this child in your prayers as there are many more hurdles!
Last night the guardian ad litem came to our house for a home visit. Some people have asked what that is. Basically it's where they come to your home and ask a bunch of questions about you and your marriage and family and all kinds of things to see if you seem to be an acceptable home for a child.
Michael and I had been cleaning and straightening up the house for weeks. When both of you work full time AND are going to school the neatness of your home tends to fall by the wayside. The worst part was the desk and the table that sits behind the desk! I didn't realize I had accumulated so many books for my doctorate!
When she got here we sat in the living room and talked. At first it was formal stuff like names, birth dates, work information, etc. Then she started asking how we would discipline! That one was kinda tough. When you ask me that I fall into teacher mode. Fortunately, Michael remembered how friends told us they answered that (Thanks, Zack and Jenn!) and answered it well. She also asked us about our families and our relationships with them. She asked what we do for fun and about our church, since what we do for fun often revolves around church or people from church. The conversation turned into chatting about many things, including recent news stories. We learned some about her, too, which was nice.
One thing that came up was if we wanted more children. We told her about losing Micah and that while we were not actively pursuing pregnancy and don't feel led to use any fertility treatments, we would be thrilled to have children of our own. We also told her that we would love to adopt again one day but after giving this child time to become secure that he is loved and this is his home. She seemed fine with that and even joked that as soon as this adoption is final we will get pregnant!
A few things made us a little nervous. First, she brought up how, although it is VERY unlikely, this child's parents could come back and fight us for him if we try to adopt. This is not going to stop us from trying, but the idea made me sick to my stomach. Second, the guardian the child is currently with is threatening to put him in foster care even though he knows we are trying to get custody of him. That would give us a LOT more hoops to jump through. She asked if we would rather have him go to foster care or bring him here very soon. We said bring him here. She kept mentioning that if we let him go to foster care we could get a lot of government assistance. We told her we didn't care about that. We want to know he is safe. We don't want any government assistance. We just want him.
After two hours, Michael said he wanted to show her the room we have set up for the child. She commented that we need more toys. Michael told her how the bedroom was done in Superman while the bathroom was being done in Notre Dame colors. That started a football conversation! She jokingly said she might reconsider approving us since Michael was a Notre Dame fan!!! As she left she said that although it felt like we were chatting, that is the best way she can truly get to know us. Then she said the words we were hoping for: "I feel good about this!!!" We were over the moon!
The guardian ad litem is meeting with the child's guardian on Monday. She is going to tell him how she felt about our meeting and ask him some of the questions we had. She is also going to suggest that he start allowing us to spend some time with the child away from the school. She is going to try to get us a dinner date with him on Wednesday night and maybe some time next Saturday. She also made other suggestions about transitioning him smoothly into our home. She is also going to arrange for some therapy for the child to help with some of the things he has been through. Now we wait for the guardian's response.
We walked her out and showed her our yard (she had asked). Then Michael and I came in and just sat. We had been so stressed that it was a huge relief! It's insane to sit with someone who could keep you from getting a child!
Thank you for all of your prayers for us as we jumped this huge hurdle. Please keep us and this child in your prayers as there are many more hurdles!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Reflecting
In watching the news stories about the new president, I happened to see a story about where the country was when President Bush first took office. That made me think about where I was when Bush took office in January 2001.
I was a teaching third grade. It was my first year teaching. I was still figuring out the teaching thing. Well, I'm still figuring that out. So, that's not so different. Anyway, I was unmarried, living in a small apartment that I loved with three finches. I was driving a 1991 Mercury Grand Marquis that I think I still owe my father for. (Sorry Dad. I'm working on that.)
Now, we have just inaugurated a new president and I am again taking stock of where I am. I am very VERY happily married, hoping to have a 6 year old son in my home in the next few weeks, babying my two cats and dog. I am teaching ESOL at an elementary school. I am still working on getting my finances in order, but we have made amazing strides. I have a wonderful family and in-laws. I have two gorgeous nieces and two wonderful nephews. We have a new niece or nephew on the way. I am finished with my master's degree and working on my doctorate. Michael is back in school doing amazingly well and is happy with what he is doing. He will finish his certificate program this summer. We have found the church God has called us to at this point, and although it is having some struggles, we are excited about what God has in store for that family. Thanks to facebook and myspace we are reconnected with old friends and family who live far away. I have two of my mom's brothers nearby and very active in my life, which makes her seem closer. We have lost a son, but we are blessed to have experienced pregnancy once in our life so far.
Overall, my life is very blessed and satisfying. I was just feeling the need to take stock of my life. I am very pleased with where I am and how far I have come.
I was a teaching third grade. It was my first year teaching. I was still figuring out the teaching thing. Well, I'm still figuring that out. So, that's not so different. Anyway, I was unmarried, living in a small apartment that I loved with three finches. I was driving a 1991 Mercury Grand Marquis that I think I still owe my father for. (Sorry Dad. I'm working on that.)
Now, we have just inaugurated a new president and I am again taking stock of where I am. I am very VERY happily married, hoping to have a 6 year old son in my home in the next few weeks, babying my two cats and dog. I am teaching ESOL at an elementary school. I am still working on getting my finances in order, but we have made amazing strides. I have a wonderful family and in-laws. I have two gorgeous nieces and two wonderful nephews. We have a new niece or nephew on the way. I am finished with my master's degree and working on my doctorate. Michael is back in school doing amazingly well and is happy with what he is doing. He will finish his certificate program this summer. We have found the church God has called us to at this point, and although it is having some struggles, we are excited about what God has in store for that family. Thanks to facebook and myspace we are reconnected with old friends and family who live far away. I have two of my mom's brothers nearby and very active in my life, which makes her seem closer. We have lost a son, but we are blessed to have experienced pregnancy once in our life so far.
Overall, my life is very blessed and satisfying. I was just feeling the need to take stock of my life. I am very pleased with where I am and how far I have come.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
While I'm Waiting
Aletheia and I are in DESPERATE need of your prayers right now. Satan is attacking us from every side right now. He is attacking us with doubt, confusion, and fear. We are seeing the obstacles before us and it is hard to see just how He can turn this into an opportunity. We are looking at the daunting task of taking on a 6 year old child and we have no idea how we are going to pay for the initial costs. We want to provide for him, but our budget for February is short. We can't make our budget for just the 2 of us right now. (Please don't start writing me and telling me that we shouldn't be doing this. The only reason that we are having problems with February is because of when pay checks come. Mine won't come until the end of February.) Satan is really attacking me and filling my head full of doubt that God will provide, confusion as to what to do, and fear that we aren't making the right decisions.
Of course, even as I sit here typing this up I am reminded of Scripture. II Timothy 1:7 says, "For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." Also James 1:5ff says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind."
God has also brought to mind another scripture, Isaiah 40:31 says, "but those that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength, they will mount up on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint." As I type those words I am reminded of a song that has come to hold significant meaning to me lately. The song "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller has become the cry of my heart lately. It can stand for any thing that we are waiting on God to do, but right now, for me, it means while I am waiting on Him to bring this precious boy into our home. The lyrics are as follows:
Of course, even as I sit here typing this up I am reminded of Scripture. II Timothy 1:7 says, "For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." Also James 1:5ff says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind."
God has also brought to mind another scripture, Isaiah 40:31 says, "but those that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength, they will mount up on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint." As I type those words I am reminded of a song that has come to hold significant meaning to me lately. The song "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller has become the cry of my heart lately. It can stand for any thing that we are waiting on God to do, but right now, for me, it means while I am waiting on Him to bring this precious boy into our home. The lyrics are as follows:
I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait
I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve you
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait
I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though its not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will move ahead, bold and confident
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve you
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait
Taking every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve you
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait
This song has come be a constant reminder of quite a few things for me lately. Though I am waiting on God, that in no way should suggest that I am idle. It also reminds me that I am to continue being obedient to the things He has told me to do in the meantime. Most importantly, I continue to worship Him while I am waiting because if I can't worship God in the bad times, then my worship in the good times is worthless to Him.
Tonight as Aletheia and I were praying I was reminded of a miracle that Christ performed. Jesus in this miracle took a measly 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish and fed somewhere in the neighborhood of 25,000 people. (Matthew says 5,000 men plus women and children. Theirs was an agricultural society so they had larger families.) So, I am praying that God will take our "five loaves and 2 fish" and multiply it. I am not even asking that He multiply it enough to feed 25,000. I just want to make sure we can properly care for and provide for this 6 year old little boy.
Won't you please join us in praying that God will give us wisdom to know what is required of us, power and strength to withstand Satan's attacks, willingness to continue being obedient, courage to worship when times aren't good, and the ability and faith to wait on Him and His timing?
Missing Micah
One year ago today we found out we were pregnant with our son, Micah. Six weeks later we miscarried. I never understood the ability to love someone you had never met or even had a conversation with so intensely. He was a spot on an ultrasound, a heartbeat and a LOT of nausea, but he was our son. He was so loved. He was so wanted. I frequently dream about him with my mother in heaven. I am jealous of each of them. The two people I miss the most get to be together.
Mom and Dad love you, Micah.
Mom and Dad love you, Micah.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Happy birthday, Daddy
Wow! I seem to be really good at doing these birthday things a day late. Yesterday was my beloved Dad's birthday. We got together with family on Saturday to have a surprise party for him. It was wonderful!
I never truly appreciated my father until I became an adult myself. Now I realize just how much he sacrificed for us and how much he truly loved us.
When I met Michael in 1996, I wouldn't date him because he reminded me so much of my father. I knew that if I dated him, I would marry him. Now, I am so grateful for all the ways he is like my dad. I know he is going to be a fantastic father, just like mine has been. I can't wait to see him continue to develop into an amazing man, just like my dad.
I love you, Daddy! Here's to many more birthdays!
I never truly appreciated my father until I became an adult myself. Now I realize just how much he sacrificed for us and how much he truly loved us.
When I met Michael in 1996, I wouldn't date him because he reminded me so much of my father. I knew that if I dated him, I would marry him. Now, I am so grateful for all the ways he is like my dad. I know he is going to be a fantastic father, just like mine has been. I can't wait to see him continue to develop into an amazing man, just like my dad.
I love you, Daddy! Here's to many more birthdays!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Looks like I get the pleasure of doing the update tonight because Aletheia is sick. Please pray for her. She has just been really exhausted the last 3 nights.
Yesterday, I got a really nice treat. I didn't have to work yesterday, so after I ate lunch, I went over to Aletheia's school around 2:30pm. The boy that we are trying to adopt was in the After School Program yesterday, so Aletheia set it up so that I could spend some time with him. I spent about an hour helping him with his homework. Then we played for about 45 minutes. It was so much fun to spend time getting to know him. I had seen him a couple of times in passing, but this was the first time I really got to spend any time with him. I have found one flaw that I will have work out of him. He thinks he is a UGA fan. Of course, he is young so there is still hope for him. I am sure that I can indoctrinate him. I will help him see that he is really a Notre Dame fan. There of course is no team above Notre Dame in this house, so I am sure he will learn to love Notre Dame as much as I do.
On another note, Aletheia got a phone call today from the guardian ad litem. She wants to have a home visit on January 30th. We are kind of relieved. This gives us a little more time to get his room prepared for him. We went out this past weekend and bought him Superman sheets for his bed. I really want my dad to make him something for his room, but I am just not sure what. He already has a dresser and a toy box. My dad is a great carpenter, so if anyone has any ideas please let me know. I really want him to have something personal and meaningful in his room.
Thanks again for all the prayers. Keep them coming because the adventure is just getting started.
Yesterday, I got a really nice treat. I didn't have to work yesterday, so after I ate lunch, I went over to Aletheia's school around 2:30pm. The boy that we are trying to adopt was in the After School Program yesterday, so Aletheia set it up so that I could spend some time with him. I spent about an hour helping him with his homework. Then we played for about 45 minutes. It was so much fun to spend time getting to know him. I had seen him a couple of times in passing, but this was the first time I really got to spend any time with him. I have found one flaw that I will have work out of him. He thinks he is a UGA fan. Of course, he is young so there is still hope for him. I am sure that I can indoctrinate him. I will help him see that he is really a Notre Dame fan. There of course is no team above Notre Dame in this house, so I am sure he will learn to love Notre Dame as much as I do.
On another note, Aletheia got a phone call today from the guardian ad litem. She wants to have a home visit on January 30th. We are kind of relieved. This gives us a little more time to get his room prepared for him. We went out this past weekend and bought him Superman sheets for his bed. I really want my dad to make him something for his room, but I am just not sure what. He already has a dresser and a toy box. My dad is a great carpenter, so if anyone has any ideas please let me know. I really want him to have something personal and meaningful in his room.
Thanks again for all the prayers. Keep them coming because the adventure is just getting started.
Friday, January 9, 2009
More crazy timing
This morning I saw the child in a whole new light! He came in smiling and with his shirt on backwards!!! He gave me a big smile! However, the smile was nothing unusual, so hopefully that means that his guardian hasn't said anything to him.
I also got to talk to his homeroom teacher. She also said that he is working well considering the situation. She feels he will do better with support and stability.
On my lunch break I was planning to call the guardian and talk with him. I decided to go get some lunch first. As I headed through the office of my school, there stood the guardian ad litem! I got to talk to her for about 30 minutes. Michael just happened to walk into my office during this time. He got to meet her also. She is going to schedule a time to come for a home visit soon. We wait on her to call now.
Michael and I went by one of his classes to see the child. When he saw me he gave me a big hug! Yeah, my heart is already his!
This afternoon, I was in the office again and ran into the child's guardian! He seemed very nice and truly seems to care about the child. He wants what's best and doesn't want him hurt again by another family deciding they don't want him. In our opinion, once he is in our home, that is not an option.
By the way, when the child saw me this afternoon, he walked up to me and asked why I had been talking to his teacher. I asked how he knew I was talking about him. He put his hands on his hips and said "I just know!" I told him I was hearing about all of his hard work this year and was that ok with him. "I guess!"
Now, we wait for the call about the home visit! And sorry about the lack of names. I will tell you his name as soon as I feel I can!
I also got to talk to his homeroom teacher. She also said that he is working well considering the situation. She feels he will do better with support and stability.
On my lunch break I was planning to call the guardian and talk with him. I decided to go get some lunch first. As I headed through the office of my school, there stood the guardian ad litem! I got to talk to her for about 30 minutes. Michael just happened to walk into my office during this time. He got to meet her also. She is going to schedule a time to come for a home visit soon. We wait on her to call now.
Michael and I went by one of his classes to see the child. When he saw me he gave me a big hug! Yeah, my heart is already his!
This afternoon, I was in the office again and ran into the child's guardian! He seemed very nice and truly seems to care about the child. He wants what's best and doesn't want him hurt again by another family deciding they don't want him. In our opinion, once he is in our home, that is not an option.
By the way, when the child saw me this afternoon, he walked up to me and asked why I had been talking to his teacher. I asked how he knew I was talking about him. He put his hands on his hips and said "I just know!" I told him I was hearing about all of his hard work this year and was that ok with him. "I guess!"
Now, we wait for the call about the home visit! And sorry about the lack of names. I will tell you his name as soon as I feel I can!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
When God works....
WOW does he work!!!
Tuesday night, after making my post, I looked at Michael and said, "For us to get a child anytime soon someone is going to have to walk up to us and say 'Please take this kid!'" Well, the next morning I was at bus duty at school and one of my assistant principals walked up to me and a co-worker. As we were talking one of our first graders came by and greeted us. The conversation switched to the child and his less than desirable home situation. My assistant principal looked at me and said, "Hey, he's up for adoption!" I just stared. Did God just use my own words to give me a message less than 12 hours later?
I spent the rest of the day gathering more information on the child. I talked with Michael. We decided to look into the situation.
Today I went to that same assistant principal and told him we would be interested in looking into adopting the boy. He referred me to our other assistant principal who handles first grade. Within ten minutes I was sitting with the school social worker, this assistant principal and our school counselor. Everyone was very supportive, telling me how we would be so good for him. The social worker got on the phone with the court's guardian ad litem ............. bottom line, by the end of the day the school counselor was on the phone with the person who currently has custody of the child. He is interested in talking to us and will give permission for us to take the next step in personally talking with himself and the guardian ad litem.
While this is going crazy fast, we are both thrilled and scared. The little boy is six and is doing very well considering his crazy home life. We are over the moon at the idea of him becoming part of our family.
Please pray for us as we continue on this roller coaster ride! Tomorrow I am to call his current guardian and get some more information. Also, please pray for him that even if he is not meant to be with us, that he gets his forever family soon.
Tuesday night, after making my post, I looked at Michael and said, "For us to get a child anytime soon someone is going to have to walk up to us and say 'Please take this kid!'" Well, the next morning I was at bus duty at school and one of my assistant principals walked up to me and a co-worker. As we were talking one of our first graders came by and greeted us. The conversation switched to the child and his less than desirable home situation. My assistant principal looked at me and said, "Hey, he's up for adoption!" I just stared. Did God just use my own words to give me a message less than 12 hours later?
I spent the rest of the day gathering more information on the child. I talked with Michael. We decided to look into the situation.
Today I went to that same assistant principal and told him we would be interested in looking into adopting the boy. He referred me to our other assistant principal who handles first grade. Within ten minutes I was sitting with the school social worker, this assistant principal and our school counselor. Everyone was very supportive, telling me how we would be so good for him. The social worker got on the phone with the court's guardian ad litem ............. bottom line, by the end of the day the school counselor was on the phone with the person who currently has custody of the child. He is interested in talking to us and will give permission for us to take the next step in personally talking with himself and the guardian ad litem.
While this is going crazy fast, we are both thrilled and scared. The little boy is six and is doing very well considering his crazy home life. We are over the moon at the idea of him becoming part of our family.
Please pray for us as we continue on this roller coaster ride! Tomorrow I am to call his current guardian and get some more information. Also, please pray for him that even if he is not meant to be with us, that he gets his forever family soon.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Holding on to Faith
I have spent quite a bit of time over the last few days thinking about the year just gone by. I hope this doesn't offend anyone, but for me last year was a dismal year in so many ways. (Don't get me wrong, there were certainly some good moments, but, in my opinion, overall it was dismal.) So many things just seem to go wrong for me. I lost my job, and struggled to find a new one. Put up with a horrible part time job where my hours were constantly being cut. The pastor of our church left and then right around Christmas we find out that the youth pastor is leaving too. The church and family that I love so much is so far in debt right now that we may never recover. It certainly doesn't help when the year started off badly by us losing the baby that we were over joyed to have been blessed with.
Thankfully, 2008 is nothing but a memory now. That is beauty of a New year. I get a fresh start. David said in Psalm, "Your mercies are new every morning." For those of us that are blessed to have a relationship with Christ, we get a brand new start to each day. I can shrug off all the bad things that happened last year and start fresh this year. So, as I turn from looking at the despair of 2008, to the promises of a brighter future in 2009, I do so with faith.
Over the last couple of weeks I have come across verses filled with promises of a family. If I have learned little else in my life, I have learned that God is ALWAYS faithful to fulfill the promises that He makes to His children. This is one thing that I learned through experience. He has NEVER let me down in the past, and I know that isn't going to change this year.
Christ says to me from Scripture that if I have the faith of a mustard seed, I can tell this mountain to move into the ocean and it will happen. I don't have the desire to move any physical mountains, but I sure do have the desire to move the mountains that I see getting in the way of our having the family we have been promised. So, this year I am holding onto faith desperately with everything I have in me, and I will be about the business of moving mountains this year.
I ask that you join with us this year as we pray. We will not only be praying for the adoption each step of the way, but we are also praying for the children God has blessed us with. I am of the firm belief that it is never too early to start praying for your children. For those of you that will commit to praying with us and for us, I can promise you that God will bless you as well. On the day that we bring those kids home, you will know that you had a major role in what God has accomplished in our lives because of your prayers. Your prayers mean more to us than anything else.
Thank you,
Michael Leavitt
Thankfully, 2008 is nothing but a memory now. That is beauty of a New year. I get a fresh start. David said in Psalm, "Your mercies are new every morning." For those of us that are blessed to have a relationship with Christ, we get a brand new start to each day. I can shrug off all the bad things that happened last year and start fresh this year. So, as I turn from looking at the despair of 2008, to the promises of a brighter future in 2009, I do so with faith.
Over the last couple of weeks I have come across verses filled with promises of a family. If I have learned little else in my life, I have learned that God is ALWAYS faithful to fulfill the promises that He makes to His children. This is one thing that I learned through experience. He has NEVER let me down in the past, and I know that isn't going to change this year.
Christ says to me from Scripture that if I have the faith of a mustard seed, I can tell this mountain to move into the ocean and it will happen. I don't have the desire to move any physical mountains, but I sure do have the desire to move the mountains that I see getting in the way of our having the family we have been promised. So, this year I am holding onto faith desperately with everything I have in me, and I will be about the business of moving mountains this year.
I ask that you join with us this year as we pray. We will not only be praying for the adoption each step of the way, but we are also praying for the children God has blessed us with. I am of the firm belief that it is never too early to start praying for your children. For those of you that will commit to praying with us and for us, I can promise you that God will bless you as well. On the day that we bring those kids home, you will know that you had a major role in what God has accomplished in our lives because of your prayers. Your prayers mean more to us than anything else.
Thank you,
Michael Leavitt
Holding on to hope
Today we were finally able to talk to the lady in charge of adoption at our local county DFCS. She told us that their focus is restoring families and don't adopt out children from foster care within the age range we would like. Most are high school age. However, she did give us names of a few local adoption agencies to look into. She is also trying to set up a meeting for us with a representative from one of those agencies.
While I am disappointed that there is another road block in our way, I do appreciate their focus on trying to save families.
So, now we look into these agencies and wait to hear back from her about the meeting I guess.
I'm pretty disheartened right now. I am feeling like Michael and I may never have children of our own. I am just clinging to the hope from Psalm 113.
While I am disappointed that there is another road block in our way, I do appreciate their focus on trying to save families.
So, now we look into these agencies and wait to hear back from her about the meeting I guess.
I'm pretty disheartened right now. I am feeling like Michael and I may never have children of our own. I am just clinging to the hope from Psalm 113.
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