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Building the Blocks buildingtheblocks.blogspot.com

Table of Contents: Who am I? .................................................................................. 8 Turning 5!!! ................................................................................ 8 What's in a peanut butter ball... ................................................ 9 I'm going to be an aunt again!!!............................................... 10 Sweet E.... ................................................................................ 10 Affording the Good Stuff.......................................................... 10 You are special ......................................................................... 11 What's REALLY inside a peanut butter ball! ............................. 11 The Horse ................................................................................. 12 Christmas Parade ..................................................................... 12 The wrinkles... .......................................................................... 13 Worth the Risk ......................................................................... 14 I am blessed ............................................................................. 14 Away in the manger ................................................................. 15 The White Elephant ................................................................. 16 Doing the happy (aunt) dance! ................................................ 17 Pizza anyone??? ....................................................................... 17 Miracle of Adoption Family (1) ................................................ 18 Mario's video ........................................................................... 18 Miracle of Adoption Family (2) ................................................ 18 Miracle of Adoption Family (3) ................................................ 20 Miracle of Adoption Family (4) ................................................ 20 Magic Reindeer food ................................................................ 22 Miracle of Adoption Family (5) ................................................ 23 Who's really at the door? (in the eyes of a 3- year- old) ......... 24 Lessons from a $2.00 pair of skates ......................................... 24 Happy 11th Birthday Kallan!!! ................................................. 25 In light of all the Christmas stress... ......................................... 26 BIRTHDAY GIRL!!! ..................................................................... 27 Ear plugs anyone??? ................................................................ 28 Christmas Memories 2007 ....................................................... 28 My friend, My hero .................................................................. 30 Reunited and it feels so good... ............................................... 31 Miracle of Adoption~ our story................................................ 32 New Years Resolutions............................................................. 34 Today for Sweet 'E'... ............................................................... 35 I remember... ........................................................................... 36

Heaven gained an Angel today ................................................ 37 What will you do with today? .................................................. 41 Be yourself- everyone else is already taken.... ........................ 41 Children of the World .............................................................. 42 World Help ............................................................................... 43 Fair Warning... ......................................................................... 46 Soups on! ................................................................................. 46 Favorite Foto Fun ..................................................................... 46 Thought of the day... ............................................................... 47 Did you hear God today? ......................................................... 47 Waiting... ................................................................................. 48 Our day .................................................................................... 49 Thought for the day... .............................................................. 49 Favorite Foto Fun ..................................................................... 50 2007 International Adoption Statistics .................................... 50 A glass of milk... ....................................................................... 50 Are they 'real' sisters? ............................................................. 51 Hand me downs... .................................................................... 52 Prayer Request Sunday ............................................................ 53 Who took your place?.............................................................. 53 Favorite Foto Fun ..................................................................... 53 Reflections... ............................................................................ 54 Messy Memories ..................................................................... 54 My new look!!.......................................................................... 56 How to get YOUR new look ..................................................... 57 The Laundry's calling!!! ............................................................ 57 The loss of a referral ................................................................ 57 Organization with 6 Kids .......................................................... 58 Forgetting something?? ........................................................... 59 Blog envy ................................................................................. 60 Solving the mystery... Who Dun it? ......................................... 61 Me with BIG HEAD ................................................................... 63 TOO CUTE!!!............................................................................. 63 The Yellow Light ....................................................................... 64 Verdict In ................................................................................. 65 One of those days.... ................................................................ 65 Enough to make a difference................................................... 66 SISTERS..................................................................................... 66

Gratitude Day ........................................................................... 67

The Dirt .................................................................................... 96

(almost) FRESH SALSA!!!........................................................... 68

PICTURES!!!!!! .......................................................................... 96

Twins ........................................................................................ 69

The stuff ................................................................................... 99

Discovering God's Will .............................................................. 69

Chicken Pot pie......................................................................... 99

Hospitality ................................................................................ 70

More on Stuff ......................................................................... 100

Large Families= Good marriages??........................................... 71

Happy Anniversary ................................................................. 101

Brothers .................................................................................... 72

Be a Hero ................................................................................ 102

Today?? .................................................................................... 72

Rick Warren Video.................................................................. 102

Attitude .................................................................................... 72

Under construction ................................................................ 102

Precious blessings..................................................................... 73

Happy Birthday Honey!!......................................................... 104

Irreplaceable ............................................................................ 73

Kaden's room ......................................................................... 104

Happiness ................................................................................. 74

Security .................................................................................. 104

Still waiting... ............................................................................ 74

Abundant Blessings ................................................................ 105

A better Life .............................................................................. 75

Orphans .................................................................................. 106

Homemade Granola Bars ......................................................... 75

Back to the days... .................................................................. 107

The gift of life ........................................................................... 76

Things happening ................................................................... 107

Application to Date my Daughters ........................................... 76

TONIGHT!!!............................................................................. 108

The Big and the Little................................................................ 79

Meeting Kaden!! .................................................................... 109

Welcome HOME Mario! ........................................................... 80

2nd visit .................................................................................. 109

Update on Sweet 'E' and our other surprise ............................ 81

our precious gift from God ..................................................... 110

Love is in the Air ....................................................................... 81

Kaden's video ......................................................................... 111

Serving ...................................................................................... 83

When you say yes to God....................................................... 111

True Treasures.......................................................................... 83

Gone private........................................................................... 112

Finding comfort ........................................................................ 84

Mya's readoption Day ............................................................ 112

Thank you my precious friends ................................................ 85

Paranoid and lack of sleep... .................................................. 113

Time .......................................................................................... 85

Chicken and Sour Cream Enchilada's ..................................... 114

The 2 sides of Miss Aleigha ...................................................... 86

Curl ......................................................................................... 114

Our newest Addition!!! ............................................................ 86

Guatemalan Baby wrap .......................................................... 114

Update ...................................................................................... 87

Dress up ................................................................................. 114

Baby D ...................................................................................... 88

Big Day ................................................................................... 115

Happy Valentines Day! ............................................................. 88

9th place! ............................................................................... 116

Cold Season .............................................................................. 88

Small, dark and handsome... .................................................. 116

Be the change ........................................................................... 88

QUESTIONS anyone?? ............................................................ 117

Boys and girls............................................................................ 89

Not my strength, but yours .................................................... 117

Strength .................................................................................... 90

Questions and answers .......................................................... 118

The Burden of Discontent ........................................................ 91

Questions and answers .......................................................... 119

Gratitude Day~ my mom and dad ............................................ 91

1st post placement visit ......................................................... 119

Letters, letters everywhere ...................................................... 92

Home is where your heart is .................................................. 119

The real test.............................................................................. 94

Home improvements ............................................................. 121

Bald is beautiful! .................................................................... 121

The 143,000,000 .................................................................... 161

Enough in Life......................................................................... 122

The Starfish Poem .................................................................. 162

Ya Gotta have friends............................................................. 123

My way or the Highway??? ................................................... 162

Just the way you are... ........................................................... 124

Our newest additions ............................................................ 163

On your shoulders.................................................................. 125

HIV knowledge ....................................................................... 165

What I see in the middle of the night... ................................. 125

My Hero's............................................................................... 165

Side walk paint ....................................................................... 126

The Perfect Mistake ............................................................... 166

Praying Hands ........................................................................ 127

Balance .................................................................................. 167

Recipe~ Pumpkin chip muffins............................................... 127

Shoo Fly don't bother me! ..................................................... 167

Mommy mistakes................................................................... 127

Things that change my priorities in life ................................. 168

My Rant .................................................................................. 128

Summer entertainment ......................................................... 168

You are... ................................................................................ 130

The Way ................................................................................. 171

Fun in the Sun! ....................................................................... 130

Happy Father's Day!!! ............................................................ 172

Sore Back................................................................................ 132

THE CROSS MADE THE DIFFERENCE FOR ME ......................... 174

Free Rides .............................................................................. 132

Something to think about... ................................................... 174

Bonding .................................................................................. 133

The Bible Vs The Cell Phone................................................... 174

HIV- tell two ........................................................................... 134

War of the Vacuums .............................................................. 175

Pictures .................................................................................. 135

Who you are .......................................................................... 175

Horchata ................................................................................ 136

Behind the Scenes ................................................................. 179

What to do with today ........................................................... 136

Adoption Community ............................................................ 182

Weekends with seven ............................................................ 137

Our priorities vs. God's priorities ........................................... 183

SINGING IN THE RAIN! ........................................................... 142

Garden glory .......................................................................... 184

Red Letters Campaign ............................................................ 143

Why we adopt........................................................................ 185

Our calling .............................................................................. 143

Runner ................................................................................... 186

Happy Mother's Day .............................................................. 144

Road Trip................................................................................ 187

PROM!!! ................................................................................. 145

Memories were made... ........................................................ 187

Kaden's room ......................................................................... 148

Celebrating 4 years of Aleigha ............................................... 191

Surgery sorrows ..................................................................... 149

Gotcha Day celebration ......................................................... 193

The joys of Mother's Day ....................................................... 149

Road Trip #2 ........................................................................... 194

You know your an adoptive mother when... ......................... 152

PRAYERS FOR ABBY ................................................................ 197

Our Deepest Fear ................................................................... 152

The Dating Game ................................................................... 198

Middle school dance .............................................................. 153

Beauty of the heart ................................................................ 199

Racism .................................................................................... 155

Risks ....................................................................................... 199

More lessons in life ................................................................ 156

Orphans Vs. American Dream................................................ 200

Once there was a boy who loved ice cream... ....................... 157

It's not about me ................................................................... 201

When bad things happen to good people ............................. 158

The Reality ............................................................................. 202

We're outta here! .................................................................. 160

Please join me in prayer... ..................................................... 202

I'm BACK!!! ............................................................................. 160

HIV Life Expectancy................................................................ 203

The $8.00 Hot dog.................................................................. 161

I will remember...................................................................... 204

This and that ........................................................................... 204

Happy 2nd Gotcha Day Mya Sofia!!! ...................................... 242

Thought for the day................................................................ 206

Wordless Weekend ................................................................ 244

Another?? ............................................................................... 206

Go see it!!! ............................................................................. 246

Ready, set, DONATE! .............................................................. 207

Candy Land with Jesus ........................................................... 247

Happy Birthday Travis!! .......................................................... 208

Twelve is a beautiful number ................................................. 247

You came.... ............................................................................ 209

Thank you... ............................................................................ 249

Daughtry- What about now.................................................... 211

Pulling it together................................................................... 250

Interesting... ........................................................................... 211

Operation Princess Hair- please join in!! ............................... 252

Friendship- the treasured gift ................................................ 211

Happy 2nd Birthday Sweet Boy!!! .......................................... 255

Happy Birthday Addisyn!!! ..................................................... 212

Pillows!!! ................................................................................ 256

It's no problem... .................................................................... 214

It's official!!! Happy Adoption Day Kaden!............................. 257

Ring Around the Rosie ............................................................ 214

Lesson on Pride ...................................................................... 260

Wordless Weekend ................................................................ 215

The Name Game..................................................................... 261

God says no for a reason... ..................................................... 219

Who dun it... this time?? ........................................................ 263

Picture overload ..................................................................... 219

When THANK YOU seems so small. (Virtual Baby Shower).... 266

Where is the church? ............................................................. 221

Only in Texas... ....................................................................... 267

I have to agree... ..................................................................... 221

Perspective ............................................................................. 268

The Best... Travis' Senior pictures .......................................... 222

Why is that? ........................................................................... 269

You are His most beautiful creation ....................................... 223

Happy Halloween!! ................................................................ 269

You just know ......................................................................... 225

Who Dun it... Mystery Solved?............................................... 270

CROCKPOT dessert- Peanut butter and Hot Fudge Pudding Cake ................................................................................................ 226

Please pray long and hard before you vote... and listen to what your God is trying to tell you. ................................................. 270

Just look around you... ........................................................... 226

Good bye Mr. Pacifier ............................................................ 272

Kaden's Kodak moment.......................................................... 227

Here comes the bride............................................................. 273

PLEASE HELP ABBY'S FAMILY!! ............................................... 228

Twinkle Twinkle LIttle Star ..................................................... 275

Blessings ................................................................................. 229

Completely ............................................................................. 275

Prisoner of our Posessions ..................................................... 229

A must see Video ................................................................... 275

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL??? ............................ 230

My body, My hands, My feet ................................................. 276

How much can one heart take? ............................................. 232

Never fear- I am still alive!!!................................................... 276

Dangerous Surrender- a second time around ........................ 234

Walking in Faith...................................................................... 277

Monthly Menu........................................................................ 235

Rooms- Finished!.................................................................... 280

Banana-Oat Breaksfast cookie ............................................... 235

Fall into the fun!!! .................................................................. 282

The benefits of a cell phone ................................................... 236

Link for the bunk beds per requests... ................................... 283

Somebody's Hero ................................................................... 237

Why I've been Missing in Action ............................................ 284

Happy 16th Birthday Keegan!! ............................................... 238

Nonstop .................................................................................. 286

Do not grow weary ................................................................. 239

One on One ............................................................................ 286

Blown away by this praise ...................................................... 240

Shop Less- Live More.............................................................. 287

What it takes to be a #1 fan ................................................... 241

Structure/Routine/Bedtimes.................................................. 288

This and that and a recipe ...................................................... 241

Names changes ...................................................................... 289

Thought for the day................................................................ 242

Wish list .................................................................................. 289

Things that work for us .......................................................... 290

Missing children- Duncan and Jack ........................................ 357

When your heart is broken... ................................................. 291

Wonderful get away with friends .......................................... 358

Wanted to Clarify ................................................................... 293

The perfect combination ....................................................... 359

Christmas Parade ................................................................... 296

The Discovery of you ............................................................. 360

Learning as we go... ............................................................... 298

When you have to let go........................................................ 363

And this is why I blog... .......................................................... 300

Are you living a crazy love for your God or are you too scared to let go? ................................................................................ 367

Merry Christmas to all!! ......................................................... 301 Hair 101.................................................................................. 305 Moments we cherish ............................................................. 306 Learning how to just be a kid ................................................. 308 Parenting all kinds of kids ...................................................... 309 May 2009 bless your socks off!!! ........................................... 309 Life experiences ..................................................................... 311 Too cool ................................................................................. 313 Things that make me smile .................................................... 313 Why time is truly our most precious gift ............................... 314 In His strength ........................................................................ 317 Delurk yourself ....................................................................... 318 Just a glimpse ......................................................................... 320 When you have a teenage boy... ........................................... 322 The pineapple ........................................................................ 323 What if... ................................................................................ 323 Surrounding yourself with good company ............................. 327 Learning to notice our blessings ............................................ 330 Now that we know... .............................................................. 332 Princess Training 101 ............................................................. 332 Stretching...and growing ........................................................ 335 Keep praying!!! ...................................................................... 337 Follow the leader ................................................................... 337 Dessert Recipe ....................................................................... 338 In Africa .................................................................................. 339 Please pray for Guatemala..................................................... 343 Discovering the 'princess' in you............................................ 347 High Chair Derby .................................................................... 349 The things you do for love ..................................................... 351 Serious.life Magazine ............................................................. 353 Operation Princess ................................................................. 354 Happy St. Patricks Day! .......................................................... 355 In my back yard ...................................................................... 355

You just can't go wrong ......................................................... 367 Weekend Getaway ................................................................ 369 Let the games begin............................................................... 375 When you've got style... ........................................................ 379 Don't sweat the small stuff... ................................................. 379 Happy Easter! ........................................................................ 380 What now... ........................................................................... 384 Five Reasons .......................................................................... 385 Camping made easy ............................................................... 386 When you never know what you are gonna get.................... 387 For your viewing pleasure... .................................................. 388 One SMART girl ;0) ................................................................. 391 This and that .......................................................................... 392 World AIDS Orphans Day ....................................................... 395 ADOPTED!!! ........................................................................... 397 Things that make me smile .................................................... 397 When less is more.................................................................. 398 REAL American Idol ................................................................ 398 What will the future hold ...................................................... 399 Simple joy .............................................................................. 400 Just in case you didn't know... ............................................... 402 ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? ............................... 403 Nothingness ........................................................................... 403 The most relaxing of days... ................................................... 404 How will we be remembered?............................................... 408 Conversations with a 2 year old ............................................ 411 Cool place to shop ................................................................. 412 What makes life so sweet... ................................................... 413 One day when we look back... ............................................... 415 Introducing... ......................................................................... 419 Making progress .................................................................... 420 Dutch baby pancakes ............................................................. 421 Life to the fullest .................................................................... 422

Summer Lovin- ....................................................................... 424 What He can do ...................................................................... 427 Lost? ....................................................................................... 428 In the center of your world... ................................................. 428 Saying goodbye... ................................................................... 429 One Nation UNDER GOD... ..................................................... 431 Does this boy need a baby brother or what? ......................... 434 Cool stuff- great cause. How can you resist? ......................... 435 GOTCHA!!! .............................................................................. 437 Sneakin 'em in ........................................................................ 442 What's in a Lifebook... ............................................................ 443 How much do you matter?..................................................... 445 Who am I? .............................................................................. 448 Oldie but goodie ..................................................................... 449 Because of who you are (repost) ........................................... 453 The Way (repost) .................................................................... 457 It's all how you choose to see it... .......................................... 464 Starting somewhere... ............................................................ 466 Birthday boy ........................................................................... 471 What could you live without? ................................................ 472 Our pickle jar overfloweth...................................................... 476 Listening... .............................................................................. 482 Finding YOUR way... ............................................................... 483 Our first official fundraiser for someone else's adoption ...... 486 Just so you know... ................................................................. 488 As time goes by... ................................................................... 493 Rice and Beans- Blogger challenge ......................................... 496 The reality............................................................................... 501 Why I love kids... .................................................................... 503 And they're off... .................................................................... 504 The Cost .................................................................................. 507 So much to be thankful for..................................................... 512 Stylin with a cause... ............................................................... 514 The focus ................................................................................ 515 Day 4~ Rice and Beans ........................................................... 516

12/6/2007 2:12:00 PM

Who am I? I've thrown around starting a blog now for quite some time... and honestly, one of the things stopping me was looking at this empty page and trying to decide where to start. To tell you the truth- I don't think I'm all that interesting- or perhaps I should say 'blog worthy'. But really-I think the biggest obstacle was the "about me" question on the side bar. I sat here for the longest time and tried to find the words for who 'I' really am.

How do I see myself? What am I all about? Who am I? I know each day when I wake up and hear "Mommy!!!" that I am most definitely someone's mommy. That I love beyond words. I know when I feel a good morning kiss upon my cheek I am blessed to be married to the man of my dreams. For that I am so thankful. I know that I am a sister and a friend... something that I cherish. And I know that before my feet ever hit the ground my eyes are lifted upward to my creator....I am a Christian. I have lived the life of placing my trust in everything and everyone but God himself. Been there- done that. Ugly. So maybe that it part of why I cannot really put into words yet who 'I' am. Maybe it's because I am a work in progress... God is growing me, stretching me, calling me- and I am willing, oh so willing, to be what He has called me to be~ this day. I will continue to wake up and each day look straight to Him for direction. I want to live every day of my life not being worried about 'Me' and what 'my' wants are-but being where God needs me at that moment. I want to be used by Him to make a difference... God, you knew exactly what you were getting into when you chose me- and you chose me anyway. Thank you.

Comments Amy said: Dear mommy, I am so pround of u for finally starting your blog and i think it is very good. i love you always~addisyn p.s. you r the best mom in the world

12/8/2007 11:27:00 AM

Turning 5!!!

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This is my precious Mya Sofia. Mya has been home just a little over a year now. She came home at just 2 months shy of being 4 years old. (To view her video click here http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4414988281239942044 ) This little girl is such a gift from God. She has blessed our family beyond measure with her bright smile and amazing attitude. I have learned more from this little girl than I ever thought possible. She is my hero. For her birthday this year she wanted a guitar and to go to the McDonalds playland. How easy was that on mommy!? For dinner we went out to eat at Chilli's and Mya had this huge chocolate ice cream cake for dessert that she graciously shared with all her family. I'm sad that my baby is already five years old- but so thankful for this amazing year we have had with her in our family. I love you Mya Sofia! Happy 5th birthday!

Comments Angel said: 5 YEARS OLD!!! It's not possible. Oh I just love all the pictures. She is so gorgeous. :0) Angel Jenny said: I love your picture Mya (MY bestest birthday present ever!!!) titi

12/8/2007 11:40:00 AM

What's in a peanut butter ball...

If you ask my kids what their favorite Christmas treat is- they will, hands down, all six of them say- the Peanut butter ball. I could probably go without making cut out sugar cookies, green wreath cookies, Spritz cookies or anything else and they wouldn't even notice. So this year we made a tripple batch of peanut butter balls. I wonder if they will last till Christmas?

Addisyn, Aleigha, Mya and Kallan (who bowed out of the picture taking) all pitched in and helped make them this yearand after the fun was done- Aleigha and Mya took a little 'reindeer' ride. Just a little weekend fun at our house!

Comments Jessica said: i would like the recipe too! looks yummy!

Angel said: Ummmmm I want the recipe to those. YUM! I'm calling you in a minute. Addy you are the coolest big sister ever and an awesome reindeer. Angel Anonymous said: Amy, I don't have the peanut butter balls recipe ‐ how can I miss out? You'll have to send it to me!!

DebbieT

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12/8/2007 12:04:00 PM

Angel said: WOOOOOHOOOOOO!!!! YAY FOR JENNY! He is precious. Angel

I'm going to be an aunt again!!!

Jenny said: I love your blog....does this mean I don't have to call you daily for your words of wisdom? I can just read them! Ha! Love ya! jenny

12/8/2007 1:24:00 PM

Sweet E....

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," delares the Lord, "and will bring you back from captivity." (Jeremiah 29:11-14a)

I don't know what has gotten into me today. I am a bloggin fool. At first I didn't know what to write about and this morning as I was doing my devotions it just hit me how very blessed I am. I have so much to share!! Are there any rules about too many posts in one day? Anyway- I am going to be an Auntie again! My awesome sister Jenny (in the picture with me - I'm in the green) is adopting this AMAZING little boy in just a few weeks. He will be turning 9 years old the end of December. He was born in Mexico and is just gorgeous don't you think? (and so is his new family!) I cannot wait to meet him. God has definately blessed our family through adoption and I could not be more thankful for that. Please pray for my sister, her new son, and their family. Pray that it is an easy adjustment for them and that this precious little boy understands that he has at last, finally found his FOREVER family. I love you my sweet nephew and I am so proud of you Jenny. Thank you for your heart- for being my best friend and the other half of my brain!

You are cherished!

I prayed for you today... that God will wrap his arms around you and that you can feel how loved you are. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6) Comments Angel said: Ugggghhhh... I am so in love with him and praying for him too. You KNOW that. Love, Angel

12/8/2007 1:51:00 PM

Affording the Good Stuff

Comments

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I read this on another blog and I could totally relate to what this mother wrote... awesome!

The other day while painting my daughter’s room, with the little kids safely cordoned off elsewhere, I actually had time to daydream. Mind wandering, I found myself wondering how it would feel to have enough money for a week in Hawaii. A kitchen remodel. A couple weeks in Europe. Or even the freedom to zip off to California for the weekend just for the fun of it. All the stuff that’s hard to fit in the budget while raising eight kids on a single income. For just a moment I wondered about the life we don’t have, the path we didn’t choose. What would be it be like if we had stopped having children after our first two daughters. If we’d chosen that other path, what might we have instead? We’d have a matched bedroom set, but no little kids bouncing on our bed in the mornings. We’d have the latest in video equipment, but no 4 year old pirouetting for the camera. We’d have video of Hawaii beaches, but none of Christmas programs featuring half a dozen of our brood. We’d see the Eiffel tower, but we’d never see 8 ‘stairsteps’ lined up on the beach grinning for a photo. We’d have a cool commercial range, but no pots big enough to properly test it.

We’d have new living room carpet, but no rosy-cheeked 8 year olds to wrestle there. We’d have a nice lawn, but no teenagers gleefully chasing toddlers around the yard. We’d have a hot tub, but no little children splashing and squirt-gun-fighting.

We’d have nice dinnerware, but the dinner table would be nearly empty. And what about our children if there were only two? They might have gone on a cruise, but they would have missed the eye-opening trip to another country to adopt a sibling. They’d have pictures with made-up Disney princesses, but none with tiny sisters looking adoringly up at them. Their college may have been paid for, but later they’d bear the burden of aging parents alone. They’d have designer jeans, but no mob of siblings to laugh with later in life over childhood memories. The individual present-piles under the Christmas tree would have been bigger, but I don't know how a small crew around the tree each year could compare to the evergrowing mob that comes from a big family, as children become adults and add their own spouses and children to the joy of the season. You know what? I think we’re affording the good stuff after all.

Comments Angel said: LOVE this post... so true. Angel

12/8/2007 1:58:00 PM

$20 bill?" Hands started going up He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this. He proceeded to crumple up the $20 dollar bill. He then asked, "Who still wants it?"Still the hands were up in the air. Well, he replied, "What if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty. "Now, who still wants it?" Still the hands went into the air. My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson.

No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to those who DO LOVE you. The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know, but by WHO WE ARE and WHOSE WE ARE. You are special.

Comments Angel said: OH SOOOOOO GOOD! I am totally stealing that. :0) Angel

12/8/2007 4:52:00 PM

What's REALLY inside a peanut butter ball!

I guess I took it for granted that everyone had the peanut butter ball recipe- but my good friend Debbie let me know that is not necessarily the case. So, I am going public with what is REALLY inside the peanut butter balls. You HAVE to try theseyou'll never again go through a Christmas without.

2. C. creamy peanut butter l lb. powdered sugar 1 stick butter. (that's what's inside) Stir together peanut butter and butter until creamy. Add in the powdered sugar. Mix well. Roll into small balls and place on waxed paper on a cookie sheet. Chill in frig for about an hour.

In saucepan pour 1 bag of MILK chocolate chips on low until melted. Dip balls in milk chocolate and put back on the waxed paper. Chill in frig. again and enjoy!

Comments Angel said: OH MY GOSH!!! I AM IN LOVE ALREADY! They sound so good. We are making them this week. Angel

You are special

Anonymous said: Thanks so much for enlightening me, Amy!! I will definitely be making those this season! How have I been missing out on peanut butter balls this long? They sound yummy!!!! DebbieT

A well-known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20.00 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, "Who would like this 11

Anonymous said: dear mommy, i love you so much your blog is awesome!!!!~addisyn

12/8/2007 7:23:00 PM

The Horse Mya- "Mommy, I lost my horse".

Me- "What horse did you loose Mya?" Mya- "the one in my mouth".

Me- "you mean your voice is hoarse?"

Mya- "Yes mommy, that is what I said!"

Comments Angel said: Hee hee! That is too cute! Angel Anonymous said: mommy u never told me that mya said that. that is too funny!!!!~addisyn

12/8/2007 7:47:00 PM

Christmas Parade

My prayer as we enter this season of great joy is that the Lord would enlighten the eyes of our heart to know the Hope to which He has called us. (Eph. 1:18-19) Tonight our small town had a Christmas parade. It was our first time going and the kids were very excited. Travis and Keegan rode in the parade on the 12

football float. The parade was all of 5 minutes long- but the girls loved it none the less. It was sort of wierd standing outside watching a Christmas parade when it was 75 degrees out and the high school band was playing "Walking in a Winter Wonderland". Hee/Hee. Gotta love Texas!

Comments Anonymous said: dear mommy i am so cute great pics!~kallan Michelle Riggs said: Great pictures! Thanks for posting them.

12/9/2007 1:22:00 PM

The wrinkles...

I tend to think of myself as still being 24... but this morning while getting ready for church I noticed yet another wrinkle. I asked myself how this could be~ I still feel like I am 24, but looking at these old pictures I guess it's proof. I'm not 24 anymore. When I think about it- I am actually thankful I am no longer that age. The first reason being- I am leaving the 'hair' behind. LOL Did you see how TALL my bangs were? The second reason is- I have spent these last years growing as a Christian and I have never been happier. I miss my 4 biggest kids being that small- but I am also enjoying watching them grow into the kind of 'bigger' people that I am so proud of. I know I have a lot more 'growing' to do... I know I am so not there yet. But I am 13

thankful for a God who loves me enough to WANT to use meno matter where I am. I remind myself that MY part is to believe and obey- and HIS part is to grow and change me. I am so thankful for that change... I just wish it did not include so many wrinkles! Lord, thank you for growing me in your likeness.

Thank you for this abundant life you have given me. Thank you for your peace that surpasses our limited understanding. Help us to be obedient to your ways and in all that we do honor you.

May our lives be a testimony to your love, mercy and grace. In Jesus name. Amen

12/10/2007 9:18:00 AM

I am blessed

Comments Angel said: LOVE THE HAIR!!! Debbie is right gorgeous!! You get more wonderful every day Amy. HUGS! Angel Anonymous said: It doesn't matter how old you are ‐you're still gorgeous ‐ remember? ‐even with the big hair! (and you're not really old!!!) I love seeing all the pics of your cute kids when they were little! You have been hiding your blogging talents for too long! DebbieT Noah's mom said: Amy, I still think I'm 19. Seriously. I do. And then, the kids at church go and do something rude, like calling me "ma'am" and it jolts me back to reality. That, and the fact, that Eli asked which crayon I used to color my hair white.

(Sigh).

BTW, LOVE those photos!!! And, girl, you were meant to be a Texan. You've got some serious Texas hair going on there. :‐)

Leslie

12/9/2007 9:44:00 PM

Worth the Risk To laugh is to risk ... appearing a fool.

To weep is to risk ... appearing sentimental.

To reach out for another is to risk ... involvement.

To expose feelings is to risk ... rejection.

To place your dreams before the crowd is to risk ... ridicule.

To love is to risk ... being loved in return.

To go forward in the face of overwhelming odds is to risk ... failure.

But, risks must be taken, because the greatest risk of all is to risk nothing. Those who risk nothing ... do nothing, have nothing, are nothing. They may temporarily avoid suffering and sorrow, but they cannot feel, learn, change, grow, live, or love.

Chained by their certitudes, they become slaves Forfeiting their freedom. Only the person who risks is free.

- Chuck Swindoll

It happened again… we were counted. 1,2,3,4 (eyes growing bigger) 5, (mouth drops open) 6… Yep- six kids and here it comes – “ARE THEY ALL YOURS?” This incident got me to thinking… why is that people think of having children is a burden- not a blessing- and when did this all start? I believe a lot of it has to do with the ‘me’ generation that we live in. Many people see children as a good thing only if we can afford them (according to the worlds view), only if our career is well established, only if the pregnancy (or adoption) is any easy one, and definitely if there are not more than two of them. But I believe in having this view we are putting limits on God and we need to trust that God will bless us as He sees fit…

God has blessed our family- not just with having 6 children- but with the blessing that comes from trusting Him to provide for us and trusting us with His children. On Sunday our pastor reminded us that against popular belief- we were NOT put on this earth to live in BIG houses and have BIG banks accounts.

It’s hard to go against the ‘norm’- what everyone else views as ‘popular’ today… and it’s hard to hear over and over again “you are crazy for having so many children”. But I’d like to turn the tables and ask the askers- why shouldn't they have more children -and then hold their answers up against scripture. For example, if they think they shouldn’t because they can’t afford it, then what does that say when God says He is the only one who provides for us? Do they think they can take care of themselves and do not need God? If they say they just cannot “handle” any more kids… why is that? Are the children they do have undisciplined? Are they too busy doing things that really do not have eternal value? Are they being selfish? And just so we understand, I am NOT talking about those who can only have one child, or no children at all- because sometimes that too is God's will. I am just simply responding to those who feel free to comment on large families and why we choose this life.

When I let the comments bother me, and I begin to have doubts or question myself- I ask myself- are the children God 14

gave us the source of stress in my life? I have to honestly say no. People with only one child or even no children still experience stress, they still have rough days and life still gets overwhelming. So when I look into my children’s eyes- when I see them running to me to share the excitement of their dayGod confirms to me that yes - I do have MORE THAN ENOUGH… more than enough love, more than enough hugs, more than enough smiles, more than enough laughter, and more than enough to brighten my day. And for that- I am so very, very, blessed. So you see-letting peoples comments upset me is not doing anyone any good- But, taking that opportunity to share the Lord with them and all that He has done for us in allowing us to have a larger family than most, and trusting Him alone is a blessing in itself. God can use me. He can use me to share Him with others- and for that I am doubly blessed.

Comments Wendi said: Hi, it's Wendi, Angel's friend...we met at Zoe's homecoming party...

This post is one of my favorite blog posts that I've ever read...thank you for writing words that until now had only been in my heart and head...you captured them ‐ thank you! (I'm going to post a link from my blog). Your family is beautiful and inspiring...looking forward to the day when God chooses to entrust us with more. I also have a question about sibling fights, if you don't mind emailing me off‐line at wendi@henrylegacy.com. Thanks!

Wendi said: Hi, it's Wendi, Angel's friend...we met at Zoe's homecoming party...

This post is one of my favorite blog posts that I've ever read...thank you for writing words that until now had only been in my heart and head...you captured them ‐ thank you! (I'm going to post a link from my blog). Your family is beautiful and inspiring...looking forward to the day when God chooses to entrust us with more. I also have a question about sibling fights, if you don't mind emailing me off‐line at wendi@henrylegacy.com. Thanks!

Angel said: When I see that couch full of kids it looks wonderful to me. I love this post and you are so right! We let our selfishness get in the way of the incredible blessings God wants to give us. Our definition of joy is so very narrow.I adore your family. I have a feeling my couch will be just as full one day. You are part of my inspiration for that. Hugs! Angel

12/10/2007 1:51:00 PM

Away in the manger

Growing up this was the nativity scene we had in our home. I remember sitting in front of it just staring at the figurines. My mom used to let me play with the people- as a matter of fact, it's the same figures she played with as a little girl as well. If you look closely the heads have been glued back onto Mary and the wise men more times than I can count.

Today I found Aleigha sitting in front of the nativity scene just looking in wonder- the same way I did when I was a child. Isn't God awesome how He draws us in... how even at a young age we long for more of Him... we long to understand Him... to get 15

just a little glimpse of His heart.

"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed... nothing will be impossible for you." Matthew 17:20 Lord, you give each of your children a seed of faith. Then it is up to us how we grow it. Growth comes when we trust you will every circumstance of our lives and believe that nothing is impossible through you. Lord we are willing, oh so willing, to follow you at all cost.. turning our back on anything else that has previously held us in it's grip. When we chose to surrender our own self‐will, interests, and desires, you will exhange them for a new heart and a life that is pleasing to you. Thank you.

Comments Amazed by grace said: These pictures are so sweet ‐ It's so neat that you have a nativity that has been in your family that long! I hope mine makes it that far. Gone are the days of being able to arrange the nativity myself and have it look "nice." (Right now everyone is lined up to see Baby Jesus.) I love it that your kids can play with yours too. Sarah PS. I'm so glad you started a blog. You have such a great heart that really encourages others.

Noah's mom said: Not even five minutes ago, I took down our nativity scene from Guatemala and put it on top of our bookcase. I decided it wouldn't last another day in Nandini's hands. She is soooo attracted to it.

But it did make me think that maybe she needs a dollhouse with some doll figures. :‐)

Leslie

12/10/2007 2:52:00 PM

The White Elephant Ok- This might be way more than you ever wanted to knowbut hey, it's my blog- if you don't like it then start your own. :0) This year we have for some odd reason been asked to bring the 'white elephant' gift to almost all of the parties we have been invited too. Now I have been involved in the 'white elephant' gift exchange in the past but to be honest I have never really given it much thought. Just figured I'd do what I was asked and bring my gift. But it seems to me that a lot of people (I including one) have no idea what a 'white elephant gift exchange' really is so I thought I'd do some digging and find out. So here goes: The history of the white elephant gift:

elephant was regarded (and still is regarded, in Thailand and Burma) as a sign that the monarch was ruling with justice and the kingdom was blessed with peace and prosperity. The tradition derives from tales in the scriptures which associate a white elephant with the birth of Buddha. Because the animals were considered sacred and laws protected them from labor, receiving a “gift” of a white elephant from a monarch was both a blessing and a curse: a blessing because of the animal’s sacred nature and a curse because the animal could be put to no practical use.

HUMMMMMMMM.....

And next, the rules of the game: All attendees of a white elephant party are expected to bring one wrapped gift. Traditionally, a white elephant present is something unusual, somewhat useless, or inconvenient.

Trinkets, strange knick knacks, unidentifiable kitchen items, and the like are typical white elephants, and guests are asked to wrap them nicely and to leave no identifying markings on the presents. Part of the white elephant game is often a series of guesses as to who brought which present.

Usually, attendees draw numbers or cards to indicate player order. Strategic white elephant players try to end up somewhere in the middle of the game. The white elephant gifts are piled in a central location, and game play begins when one person opens the first gift. The contents are displayed to the room, and the next player’s turn begins.

The second player may either open a new present from the stack or steal the first player’s gift. If the second player takes the first player's white elephant, the first player must open a new present. A gift may only be stolen once a turn. After the second player’s turn is complete, the third player proceeds with the same options, and so forth until the game is finished.

Some white elephant parties impose a rule that a gift may only be stolen three times, requiring careful strategizing in the case of large multiplayer games. Sometimes, players band together to create advantageous trades amongst each other, although some white elephant exchanges forbid collaboration. In some cases, traditional gifts make their way back to white elephant parties year after year, and players can trace the history of lavish fur coats, hideous gravy boats, and other examples through the years.

After all this research I am still not positive what the attraction is- but I'm chalking it up to most of us needing to get rid of some of the stuff we bought and didn't need in the first place.

Comments Angel said: Well it IS kind of funny to see some things people bring and it's WAY better than having to buy MORE junk nobody wants. So that is good I guess. I haven't been to one of those parties in years. The last one I went to I remember it being pretty amusing. Welcome to Texas and our weird traditions!!! Angel

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia A white elephant is a supposedly valuable possession whose cost (particularly cost of upkeep) exceeds its usefulness, and it is therefore a liability. The term derives from the sacred white elephants kept by traditional Southeast Asian monarchs in Burma, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. To possess a white 16

Titi Jenny said: Yes....he's the cutest thing ever...fits in well with our families...doesn't he?? Thanks for the awesome prayers!!! jen

12/10/2007 7:49:00 PM

Doing the happy (aunt) dance!

Anonymous said: He is just ADORABLE!!! Jenny is going to have so much fun! Can't wait to see him with his family and his doting sisters!! DebbieT

12/11/2007 9:01:00 AM

Pizza anyone???

My sister got more pictures today of her new son Mario. Come on and admit it- is he not the cutest thing EVER? I am crazy about this kid! He is one of the bravest little boys I know of and I am so proud to be his aunt. "Stop and consider God's wonders." Job 37:14 Lord, thank you for the miracle of adoption... thank you for the privilege of bringing this precious child of yours into our family. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your sovereign plan. Please hold Mario's heart in your hands‐ right now, today Lord, protect him. Help him to forgive and then to grow with the confidence that only you can give him. Give us the wisdom to see his needs‐ and teach him that he is loved unconditionally. Open the hearts of those who judge‐ and who are afraid to love Lord. Let us look to you constantly as your perfect plan unfolds. Let us make a difference with your help, one by one.

Our oldest son, Travis, got a new job at our local pizza place!

He is really seeming to like it so far. Now let me tell you, getting a 17 year old to let me take his picture holding a 'frozen pizza' for my blog was no easy task. I had to pull out the old trick of "honey, it would really mean the world to grandma and grandpa to see a picture of you... they are getting old ya know and don't get to see you that often'. (Sorry mom and dad- but it worked!) Travis is working for a really awesome family from India. He said they are so fun to work for. His 2nd night of working and delivering pizza his boss informed him (insert thick Indian accent) "you see child come to door with money you know you get no tip". LOL So basically people send their children to the door to pay the pizza delivery dude so they do not have to stand face to face to him and not give him a tip. Oh my... sad but probably very true. Pepperoni anyone?

Comments Anonymous said: Thanks Amy!!! But seriously if Trav brings me a pizza I'll give him a big tip. Mom Angel said: That is so funny. Kid=no tip.... SO WRONG! Ya learn something knew every day. LOVE the picture though. Hee hee.

Angel

Comments 17

12/11/2007 2:47:00 PM

Miracle of Adoption Family (1)

with other adoptive families. I've decided it might be to fun to 'share' some of the cool adoptive families I know with you all. I am sure you will find them as amazing as I do. Today I am going to share with you the "L" family. We actually were blessed by this families friendship before they adopted and had the privilige of following along on their adoption journey with them. Their journey was long- and of course included many road blocks along the way- but God was faithful and filled their arms and their hearts with 2 of the most beautiful children I have ever seen in my life. And not only are the gorgeous- but they fit into this family perfectly. I am so proud of this familyand honored to be in their lives. It is hard to not live close to them anymore- and even harder yet to have never had the opportunity to meet their new children face to face. But I will be forever grateful for their friendship. Their son Taz came home at age 3 and Addalyn came home at 5 months- both from Ethioipia. Isn't God great? Lord, once again I thank you for adoption... and the friendships you have blessed us with along the way. I ask for your protection over the 'L' family as they face the challenges of raising their children in the world today.

Bless this precious family and give them the peace that only you can give. They love you Lord and because of that they have touched the lives of so many. Psalm 119:165 says "Great peace have those who love the law; nothing can make them stumble."

Lord let your peace reign daily, no matter what circumstances they face.

Comments Heather said: We, too, are so thankful for your friendship and feel blessed to be able to call you our friends. Thank you for your awesome example and for introducing us to international adoption. What wonderful gifts our children are! All of them...most days! :) We love you all‐‐‐Heather

12/12/2007 8:42:00 AM

Mario's video http://www.fliptrack.com/watch/KhQ6YhdtRf My sister did a sweet video for her new son, Mario- check it out!

12/12/2007 9:55:00 AM

One of the greatest gifts about adoption (besides of course the beautiful children) is the friendships I have made along the way

Miracle of Adoption Family (2) 18

Today I would like to introduce to the the "S" family. I met Leslie while going through the adoption process with Aleigha.

Actually, her son Eli and Aleigha were 'crib mates' in the orphanage in Guatemala. God truly blessed me the day I met Leslie. One word I would use to describe Leslie is "HEART". She is AMAZING beyond words. Leslie and her husband Sim's first adoption was Noah- who came from India. As you can see this little boy is beautiful and such a gift from God. Everyone who meets Noah adores this child. Noah is now 6 -years -old and diagnosed with CP and autism. Through Noah and Leslie I have learned that God truly does not make 'mistakes'. Spend one day with this child and you will never be the same again. God is good. "May the God of peace... equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever."Hebrews 13:20‐21) Leslie and Sim's 2nd adoption was Eli , born in Guatemala. Eli is now 4 years old. When I think of Eli- the word "Spirit" comes to mind. He is ALL BOY, FULL OF LIFE and pure Joy! Aleigha and Mya would rather spend a day with Eli than a day at Disney Land I am sure! "I have come that they may have life and have it to the full". (John 10:10) Again God was good.

And last, but not least, is Princess Nandini- and what a blessing she is. Nandini (age 3) has only been home a month now and this precious little girl has made her entrance known. What can I say- she's a princess after all. Leslie and Simeon had been praying about adopting again and 'found' Nandini on a special needs waiting list called Brittney's Hope. Nandini was born with CP and also has a cyst on her brain. No families had come forth to adopt this sweet angel- which I am confident is because God already had her perfect family in mind. She was like a little hidden treasure just waiting to be found. "God's gifts and his call are irrevocable". (Romans 11:29) There really are not words to describe how much this family has blessed our lives. Just knowing them and learning from them is priceless. They are truly an inspiration and because of their faithfulness God has blessed them. We love this American, Brittish, Guatemalan and Indian mixed family. It is an honor to be their friend.

Lord you have blessed me with the precious gift of this families friendship. I stand in awe of how they use the gifts and talents you have given them to truly make a difference in this world. In them I see you Lord... their hands do your work‐ healing, comforting, encouraging, touching and loving your children. I stand in awe.

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12/12/2007 12:03:00 PM

Miracle of Adoption Family (3)

friend as well, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She lost the battle on May, 24, 2000, leaving behind a family who adored her. Soon after she died, Debbie 'ran across' a magazine article on international adoption and knew without a doubt that God was speaking right to her. Through her grief, God was showing her how she could continue the relationship she and her mom had shared~ but with her own daughter ... which He led her too in Guatemala. Anna Joyace (named after Debbie's mom) was place in Debbie's arms at the age of 6 months through the miracle of adoption. She is a beautiful, spunky, child of Godwho wears a crown in her family and is doted on by her 3 big, handsome brothers.

"And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19) Lord, everything we have is yours and yours alone... you give and take away... we may not always understand yours ways but we trust in you and rest in you... and like a child‐we reach for your hand and walk by faith and not by sight. Thank you for loving us, for picking us up and putting us back on course when we become weary and loose our way. Hold our hearts in your hand.

Thank you for those who come into our lives and touch us and change us... if even only for a short time.

12/12/2007 2:42:00 PM

Miracle of Adoption Family (4)

And next in line is the "T" family. Debbie and I become friends via the internet on an adoption forum while I was in process with Aleigha's adoption. Debbie was so patient and kind and because of her heart for adoption mentored many familiestaking the time to answer questions and always a word of encouragement. The adoption journey is not for the faint of heart and just having someone there who has 'been there' was such a blessing to me. Over these past 4 years Debbie and I have become good friends and she was one of the ladies who spent a week with me last November in Guatemala at the orphange. It was one of the most amazing experience in my life- and having Debbie by my side made it all the more special.

It was dream we both shared and I couldn't have asked for a more precious person to experience this trip with me.

Debbie and her husband John were blessed with 3 biological sons and their life was good. But in December, 1998, Debbie's mom- Joyace Ann-whom was not only her mother, but her best 20

commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go.” Angel has taught me to step out of the box and not be afraid of what God has called me to do… “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mathew 20:26). She has taught me to trust- and how to really be God’s hands and feet. I love this family and I thank God daily that He brought an ‘angel’ into my life when I needed her most.

But the story does not stop there… today, Angel, Russ, Kaitlyn and Zoe are adding to their family again through the miracle of adoption- Miss Kaiya Rain from China. Kaiya will be 2 years old in May and Angel ‘stumbled’ across her picture on a waiting child’s list. “And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah6:8) Again I am positive God had not brought forth a family so far- for as always, he knew who the perfect family for her would be. Kaiya was born with a cleft lip and palate. She has been waiting in the orphanage since she was 2 ½ months old for her new family to find her. This child is a beautiful blessing and a reminder to us all that He desires only good for our lives. “A faithful man will abound with blessings”. (Proverbs 28:20) Lord, thank you for sending friendships into our lives at just the moment we need them. Thank you for those who are willing to follow you at all cost and obey you even when it means stepping out in blind faith. Thank you for the gift of adoption‐ no matter what age, race, or special need they may have.

Thank you for letting us see they are ‘perfect’ in you. Thank you for Angel and her example of how she chooses to live in such a way that puts your name in neon lights and your desires above all others. Make all of our lives count and our actions and words honor you.

Comments Angel said: AMY!!! You are amazing!!! I am so blessed to have you as a friend. You are one of the miracles that came out of Zoe's adoption. Your family and YOU inspire me. I want to be like you when I grow up. Hee hee.. I LOVE YOU AMY AND CREW! Hugs, Angel

Today it is my pleasure to introduce you to the ‘almost famous’ Angel (another one of my mission team buddies). Angel is also a friend I had the privilege of meeting via the internet. Actually I ‘knew’ her before she even know I existed. But Angel has been a big inspiration in my life- she was the one of the biggest reasons I had the courage to step out in faith and adopt an ‘almost’ 4 year old. Angel and her husband Russ have one, as Angel puts it ‘homegrown’ daughter, Kaitlyn- who is 4 years old. Yet they knew their family was not complete and two years ago Angel and Russ began their adoption journey to bring home an infant daughter from Guatemala… but God had a different plan… and instead, while he DID bring them a daughter from Guatemala- she was ‘almost’ 8 years old. They could not be more blessed. Angel’s story of bringing Zoe home is one of faith, courage and adventure. “Whatever you have 21

12/13/2007 7:39:00 AM

True Meaning of Christmas Just a week before Christmas I had a visitor. This is how it happened. I just finished the household chores for the night and was preparing to go to bed, when I heard a noise in the front of the house. I opened the door to the front room and to my surprise, Santa himself stepped out next to the fireplace.

"What are you doing?" I started to ask. The words choked up in my throat and I saw he had tears in his eyes. His usual jolly manner was gone. Gone was the eager, boisterous soul we all know. He then answered me with a simple statement . . ."TEACH THE CHILDREN!" I was puzzled. What did he mean? He anticipated my question and with one quick movement brought forth a miniature toy bag from behind the tree. As I stood bewildered, Santa said, "Teach the children!Teach them the old meaning of Christmas. The meaning that now-a-days Christmas has forgotten. "Santa then reached in his bag and pulled out a FIR TREE and placed it before the mantle. "Teach the children that the pure green color of the stately fir tree remains green all year round, depicting the everlasting hope of mankind, all the needles point heavenward, making it a symbol of man's thoughts turning toward heaven."

He again reached into his bag and pulled out a brilliant STAR. "Teach the children that the star was the heavenly sign of promises long ago. God promised a Savior for the world, and the star was the sign of fulfillment of His promise."

He then reached into his bag and pulled out a CANDLE. "Teach the children that the candle symbolizes that Christ is the light of the world, and when we see this great light we are reminded of He who displaces the darkness."

Once again he reached into his bag and removed a WREATH and placed it on the tree. "Teach the children that the wreath

symbolizes the real nature of love. Real love never ceases. Love is one continuous round of affection."

He then pulled from his bag an ORNAMENT of himself. "Teach the children that I, Santa Claus, symbolize the generosity and good will we feel during the month of December."

He then brought out a HOLLY LEAF. "Teach the children that the holly plant represents immortality. It represents the crown of thorns worn by our Savior. The red holly berries represent the blood shed by Him. Next he pulled from his bag a GIFT and said, "Teach the children that God so loved the world that he gave his begotten son." Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift.

Santa then reached in his bag and pulled out a CANDY CANE and hung it on the tree. "Teach the children that the candy cane represents the shepherds' crook. The crook on the staff helps to bring back strayed sheep to the flock. The candy cane is the symbol that we are our brother's keeper."

He reached in again and pulled out an ANGEL. "Teach the children that it was the angels that heralded in the glorious news of the Savior's birth. The angels sang Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace and good will toward men."

Suddenly I heard a soft twinkling sound, and from his bag he pulled out a BELL,. "Teach the children that as the lost sheep are found by the sound of the bell, it should ring mankind to the fold. The bell symbolizes guidance and return.

Santa looked back and was pleased. He looked back at me and I saw that the twinkle was back in his eyes. He said, "Remember, teach the children the true meaning of Christmas and do not put me in the center, for I am but a humble servant of the One that is, and I bow down to worship him, our LORD, our GOD."

12/13/2007 7:44:00 AM

Magic Reindeer food

22

One or our favorite Christmas Eve traditions is leaving cookies and milk out for Santa - and then going outside in the cool night air and sprinkling Magic Reindeer food all over the lawn.

My kids are convinced that if the reindeer can see the glittery path they will not miss their house. In case you'd like to join in on the fun thought we'd share the recipe with you.Ingredients: 1/2 cup dried oats, 2 tbls glitter"Be sure to take this magic food and sprinkle on the lawn.On Christmas, Santa's reindeer travel miles before the dawn.The smell of oats and glitter path will guide them on their way.And you'll wake up to Santa's gifts next morn on Christmas Day!" Comments Noah Bear said: Oh, Amy. I do so want to be you. You have the most fun ever!

First the peanut butter balls and now the magic reindeer food.

One of my kids definitely has to marry into your family so that I can steal all your secrets! :‐)

Leslie Angel said: We LOVE magic reindeer food!!! Too much fun!

That picture below of Aleigha and Santa is breathtaking. WOW. Love it. Great post. Hugs. Angel Angel said: We LOVE magic reindeer food!!! Too much fun!

That picture below of Aleigha and Santa is breathtaking. WOW. Love it. Great post. Hugs. Angel

12/13/2007 10:07:00 AM

Miracle of Adoption Family (5)

Introducing- the "S" family! Aren't they amazing? I can't but smile when I see all 4 of those little girls together. Pictured are (L to R) Doreen's mother, Neyvada, Gabi, Doreen, Matteya, and Bella. (all 4 adopted from Guatemala). Doreen and I met also via the internet while she was bringing home her 2nd daugher, Bella. Bella and Aleigha were also 'crib mates' at the orphanage and Doreen and I became fast friends. Actually I think everyone who meets Doreen becomes her friend because that is just the kind of person she is. Seriously, she is one of the most, giving, non judging, unselfish people I have ever meet. She sees someone in need and doesn't think twice. She dives in with her heart and meets the need. "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9) There are so many things I love about this family- but one thing that stands out to me is how Doreen is one of those adoptive mommies that gives back to the country which her girls came from. She incorporates so much of the Guatemalan culture into their daily life - but she also goes beyond and above to give back to the people of Guatemala. God has blessed her abundantly with these 4 beautiful Guatemalan princesses and because of God's graciousness- and her heart for God -she gives back. "God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you... may provide in abundance for every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8. RSV)Doreen's first adoption was Gabi, with her big brown eyes and curly hair and sweet disposition. 9 months later her biological sister, Bella was born and Doreen and Frank were blessed again by this spunky, smart, beautiful little girl.

Again 2 years later after a long journey, they brought home Matteya at 7 months old. As you can see she is the 'baby', beautiful, and smart enough to keep up with her big sisters!

But God wasn't done and this last October, Neyvada (age 3), was escorted into the arms and hearts of her forever family.

There could not be a better fit. God was faithful. It is such a blessing for Doreen to be surrounded by these precious girls.

She has told me it was so important to her that these girls have that special 'sister bond' because Doreen herself, lost her sister years ago. Lord, I thank you for Doreen and her friendship. I have done nothing to deserve it and yet you bless me anyway.

Thank you for the lessons I have learned from her‐ for her ability to reach out and bless the people you hold so close to 23

your heart. Thank you for her example of a servants spirit, always giving, always serving and always honoring you heavenly father... when it is done for you, that is what really counts. "Be he that is greatest among you shall be your servant." (Matthew 23:11 KJV)

12/13/2007 12:20:00 PM

Who's really at the door? (in the eyes of a 3- yearold) DING DONG Aleigha- "MOM- the PMS man is at the door!"

Me- "HUH???"

Aleigha- "you know, the man that leaves the boxes."

Me- (trying not to laugh) "that's the UPS man Aleigha."

Aleigha- "Yeah, him."

Comments Amazed by grace said: Oh I love it! Too much fun. ‐ Sarah Noah Bear said: You know, she might be on to something. The PMS guy comes and visits me every month. :‐)

Leslie Anonymous said: Ha! Aleigha is a sweetie.

I've enjoyed "meeting" all the families you've profiled. What awesome people! I'm not at all surprised that you, awesome person yourself, know them. :‐) Tracy

12/14/2007 12:59:00 PM

Lessons from a $2.00 pair of skates

While we try to teach our children about life- they teach us what life is all about. “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” Matthew 20:33 Now those of you who know me, know I love garage sales… and I love a bargain. So when I saw Mya looking at a blue and pink pair of roller skates with a wishful look in her eye- I could not help but to bring them home. I had no idea that the lesson that those $2.00 skates would teach us would be priceless.

As I sat on the porch one afternoon watching Mya fall over and over on her skates-then get back up again-I realized there had been so many times in my life when I had not had the courage when knocked over… to get back up again… get back up again.

A righteous man falls seven times, and rises again. “Proverbs 24

24:16 RSV Then God taught me a lesson.

The first thing that came to me was the old saying “One mans trash is another mans treasure"... Sometimes, what one person does not cherish or have any use for anymore- can come in the form of a shirt, a pair of roller skates… or a life. How many times in my life had I not seen the treasure within another human? How many times had I ‘looked the other way’ or viewed someone as ‘useless’ or ‘in my way’?

Lord, you truly love all of us the same, regardless of the color of our skin, our bank account, or our age. As you walked on this earth‐the leper, the prostitute, and the child, all found a welcome place in your heart...

God was not yet done.

Mya came to us at age 4 with scars because someone viewed her as being 'useless' and 'in the way'. Some of the scars are deep, deep inside-hidden. Some of them are visible to the human eye. But one thing I have learned from my spunky, smart, beautiful baby is when you choose forgiveness it allows God to work in your life and therefore- in the lives of others. In our weakness –God is strong. You see, Mya has chosen not to look at her past- her scars- in a ‘poor me’ kind of light, but to see them for what they really are-a gift from God- and to get back up again.

It is not whether you get knocked down‐ it’s whether you get back up again….

ALL OF US have been knocked down at one time or another.

Sometimes our scars are only on the surface- and sometimes they are buried deep inside. But from our scars comes the chance of healing and personal growth. Growth WILL come IF we allow God the freedom to work out every detail in our livesthe past, the present, and the future- in a way that will honor HIM. You see, God gave Mya- from her past, the unique mark on her life that allows HIM to bless others with hope, encouragement and inspiration- because she allows it.

can say “I know what you are going through… God has not forgotten you”. “Praise be to the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3‐4

Today I am thankful that through this precious child-, my 4 year old with scars deeper than most of us could ever understand, I learned how to have the courage to get back up again. “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12”9 Lord, help us to live our lives seeing the ‘value’ in things that the world views as worthless. Let us love the unlovable and see the treasures around us through your eyes. Let us not put the things the world holds of value over the things that you hold dearest to your heart. Lord take the broken pieces of our lives‐ the hurts, the disappointments and the failures and make them usable for you. Let your beauty and worth be seen in our scars‐ in us‐ because we know in your eyes nothing is ever wasted… not even a blue and pink pair of roller‐skates.

Comments Amazed by grace said: Those pictures are priceless. Such great expressions! Isn't it great how God uses "what is weak in this world to shame the strong"? (I Cor 1:27) ‐ Thank you for the lessons learned from watching your precious little one learn to skate! I love it! ‐ Sarah

12/16/2007 2:32:00 PM

Happy 11th Birthday Kallan!!!

God forgive us for the times when we have tried to hide ourselves from you and put on a pretense to others around us that all is perfect in our lives. .

I’m the first to admit, I do not like suffering -and I do not like my scars being visible… sometimes I try to bury them inside and pretend that everything is ok… I try to fix things by myselfinstead of seeking God first. “He must increase, but I must decrease” John 3:30. The more of HIM I see, the less there is of me.

When we allow God, he will prepare us -so that when he brings to us someone who is broken hearted, struggling, or lonely- we 25

do it with all of your heart. Remember, your talent is God's gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God. I love you my precious son and I couldn't be more proud! Love, Mom Comments Angel said: Hey Kallan. Happy birthday. You have the coolest family and you are a really neat guy. Hope you had a great day.

Angel Jenny said: Kallan...we love you so much...you have always been my inspiration when I think of the kind of son I want!!!! Titi jenny

12/19/2007 10:11:00 AM

In light of all the Christmas stress...

Happy 11th Birthday Kallan! You came into our lives 11 years ago today and brought us more joy than we could have ever imagined. I am so blessed to be your mom! Thank you for making each day of the past 11 years just a little more special because you are in my life. I will always believe in you I know that whatever you choose to do with your life, I know you will

Twas the night before Christmas, when all thru the abode Only one creature was stirring, and she was cleaning the commode.

The children were finally sleeping, all snug in their beds, while visions of Nintendo 64 and Barbie, flipped through their heads.

The dad was snoring in front of the TV, with a half-constructed bicycle on his knee.

So only the mom heard the reindeer hooves clatter, which made her sigh, "Now what's the matter?"

With toilet bowl brush still clutched in her hand, she descended the stairs, and saw the old man.

He was covered with ashes and soot, which fell with a shrug.

"Oh great," muttered the mom, "Now I have to clean the rug! ""HO-HO-HO!" cried Santa, "I'm glad youʼre awake. ""Your gift was especially difficult to make.""

Thanks, Santa, but all I want is some time alone. ""Exactly!" he chuckled, "I've made you a clone. ""A clone?" she asked, "What good is that?

"Run along, Santa, I've no time for chit-chat.

"The motherʼs twin. Same hair, same eyes, same double chin.

"She'll cook, she'll dust," she'll mop every mess.

You'll relax, take it easy, watch The Young and the Restless. ""Fantastic!" the mom cheered. "My dream come true!"

I'll shop. I'll read, I'll sleep the whole night through!"

From the room above, the youngest began to fret.

"Mommy?! I scared...and I'm wet.

"The clone replied, "I'm coming, sweetheart. ""Hey," the mom smiled, "She knows her part.

"The clone changed the small one, and hummed a tune, as she bundled the child, in a blanket cacoon.

"You're the best mommy ever. "I really love you.

"The clone smiled and sighed, "I love you, too."

The mom frowned and said, "Sorry, Santa, no deal.

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"That's my childʼs love, she's trying to steal.

"Smiling wisely Santa said, "To me it's clear, "Only one loving mother, is needed here.

"The mom kissed her child, and tucked her into bed.

"Thank you, Santa, for clearing my head.

I sometimes forget, it won't be very long, when they'll be to old, for my cradle-song.

"The clock on the mantle began to chime.

Santa whispered to the clone, "It works every time, "With the clone by his side Santa said,"Goodnight.

Merry Christmas, Mom, you'll be all right.

Comments Amy said: That is funny Angel‐ I wondered why I had so many comments all of a sudden! Anyway‐ glad you liked it‐ I needed that today huh? Thanks again so much for calling me today‐ I don't know how you knew I needed to talk right then but you are the best! Love ya girl! Amy Angel said: I LOVE THIS. I totally stole it for my blog and told everyone to come visit you here. Don't kill me. ;0) Love ya.

Angel Wendi said: thanks for a good Christmas cry...I'm posting this to my blog.

12/19/2007 2:31:00 PM

BIRTHDAY GIRL!!!

Some say having a birthday around Christmas is a no fun~ but ask my 4 -year -old and she will tell you that she loves it! Most years we celebrate with a 'birthday tree' (just adding balloons and streamers to the Christmas tree) but this year... this year she got to open her birthday presents EARLY and to a 4- yearold there is NOTHING sweeter! :0) Due to Christmas plans we had to celebrate Aleigha's birthday today instead of tomorrow.

She'll spend her birthday in the car traveling- but for today she was a princess ( 'yellow' kitty cat cake included) and tomorrow on her real birthday she gets to pick where we eat, who she sits next to in the car, and what movie we watch first. She's happy to say the least. HAPPY 4th Birthday my sweet baby girl. May your life always be filled with love and surrounded by grace. I love you always.

Comments Jenny said: Happy Birthday my sweet little Leigh Leigh! I love you so much princess....I can't wait to see you! Titi Jenny Noah Bear said: Happy Birthday to You! Happy Birthday to You! Happy Birthday, Dear Aleigha Happy Birthday to you!

Happy 4th Birthday, Aleigha! We'll see when you get back to Texas.

Love, Noah, Eli, and Nandini Scarlett_333 said: Saw your blog posted on Angel's. Your daughter is so cute! I hope she had a great bday!

Nikki http://madebynikki.blogspot.com <‐‐ Please check out my site and help me help Real Hope for Haiti!

Angel said: HAPPY BIRTHDAY! She is so precious. Angel Anonymous said: Happy Birthday Aleigha!!!!!

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12/19/2007 2:46:00 PM

Sheri www.medlenfamily.blogspot.com

Ear plugs anyone???

Anonymous said: That is godd mamma tomorrow i will be extra loud just 4 u! :0

12/26/2007 9:50:00 PM

Christmas Memories 2007

In case you have a prayer to spare... This will be what I look at in the back of my car ALL DAY tomorrow. I know, they are cute aren't they? But still- they can get LOUD, trust me. Praise God for the DVD player. But if you are sitting at your computer and all is silent around you- pray for me ok? Whoever said "the road to a friends house is never long"... has never driven packed into one vehicle with six kids!!!! Happy travels!

Comments Amazed by grace said: What an adventure! I'm praying for you. ‐ Sarah Noah Bear said: Saying many prayers for ya, Amy! Just going to the gas station with 3 in the back drives me insane. :‐) But your kids are good as gold ‐ except that's 8 bladders to take care of and I'm sure the DVD range from a 17 year old to a 4 year old differs vastly. Are your teens sick of Disney movies yet? lol

Have a great trip! Hope to see you when you get back.

Leslie Amy said: Hi Sheri! I do remember you! How is Sophie doing?

I'm going to go check out your blog! So good to hear from you!

Amy Sheri said: Sorry, I meant to say Angels blog!

Sheri Angel said: HEE HEE HEE!!!! You poor thing!!! They sure are cute though. Have a great time. I will miss talking to you this week. Blog for me OK? Hugs to you. Angel Sheri said: Hey! I don't know if you will remember me but we met at the Holiday Inn in Guatemala. We were bringing home Sophie aka Astrid from EN and you had just left from there and were on your way home! I saw the link to your blog from Amy's blog!!!Anyways, Merry Christmas and I said a small prayer for your day in the car..... LOL!

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Leslie

12/26/2007 10:45:00 PM

My friend, My hero

.

Comments Anonymous said: I love all your pictures, Amy ‐ you have a wonderful family! DebbieT Angel said: What a great looking family! :0) HUGS! Angel Noah Bear said: So glad you're finally home ‐ and finally updated this blog!! I've been suffering from withdrawal. :‐)

I wanted to share with you a very special person in my lifeMelissa. Melissa and I have been friends since grade schoolshe is just one of those people in my life who have always been there. But I realized something this last week- sometimes we take for granted that our family and friends will always just 'be there' and unfortunately that is not how life always works.

Melissa is 38 years old and was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. She has a husband and 2 precious girls- and she was told a couple of weeks ago that her journey is about to end.

Last week when I went home for Christmas, I went to visit Melissa and had to say good-bye for the last time. It was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do in my life- but also something that I am so blessed by. Melissa and I spent almost 2 hours talking- remembering, and just cherishing our last time together. I have so many memories in my life that include 30

Melissa- and I am a better person because I knew her. She is an inspiration to everyone who meets her. Melissa has faced this disease with a positive attitude and with more courage than I could ever image. I love her so much and I thank God for every second that I have had with her. Melissa will leave behind a family who will never quite be the same without her... please pray for all of them as they face one of the hardest things in life. Dear father, help us to never take a moment of our life for granted... let us remember that every second of life we are given is precious. I thank you for Melissa and for her example of courage and strength. Please give her family peace in knowing that you alone are in control of everything and that you will never leave them. I know that because you are taking Melissa home with you at such a young age you must have an important plan in heaven for her... "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things." Matthew 25:21 Comments Anonymous said: Amy, It is so good that you were able to visit with your friend and say goodbye. So many times, because it is so hard to do, saying goodbye doesn't get done (like with my mom). I'm praying for peace for her,peace for her family and for you. I'm sure your visit meant the world to her. DebbieT Angel said: You have taught me so much about living life in a meaningful way. Thank you for that. I am so sorry for the pain that this family is enduring. My heart is so heavy about it. Angel

12/26/2007 11:18:00 PM

Reunited and it feels so good...

Melanie and Mya were friends at Eagles Nest orphange in Guatemala. As a matter of fact, Mya adored Melanie and looked up to her like a big sister. This past week we were able to meet up with Melanie who is now home with her new family (thank you Ti Ti Jenny)and have a play date at McDonalds! I think both girls were shocked at how much the other had grown (they hadn't seen eachother in a little over a year) but it was so great to be able to spend time together. Melanie has an awesome new family and it was so cool to see her home now and adjusting so well. Once again I am so thankful for the miracle of adoption.

Comments Our Adoption Journey said: Hello! I just recently came across your blog and thought I would introduce myself. We are in the process of adopting a little boy from the Eagles Nest. Happy New Year!

Anonymous said: that is so neat!!! It is such a blessing to see friends like that reunited. It is cool that you were able to make it happen. DebbieT Angel said: That is wonderful. I remember seeing her in the EN pics when Mya was still there. She is such a cutie. How cool that you got to see them. Angel

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Whitney said: I was just wondering how Melanie was doing and it is a praise to see her precious smile! What a sweet reunion for the girls.

12/27/2007 9:40:00 PM

Miracle of Adoption~ our story

I shared just a few of the families who's adoption stories I know. Today I thought I would share ours.

For me, one the of greatest things about adoption is how you can so clearly see God’s hand working the entire way through the process… to this day I am still amazed and in awe of how God so evidentially orchestrated our entire adoption process and guided us to the children that He had in mind for our family. For each one of us the journey will be different- the 32

country we choose, the age and gender of the child, and the people we meet along the way… but one thing is certainadoption will touch your heart and change you in ways that you never knew were possible.

Our story started in 2001. We were sitting in church one Sunday, Missions Sunday, and there was a short video about a missionaries work in China. The video skimmed across a cute little Chinese girl who was sitting in the corner of a room and casually mentioned she had been abandoned and was living with the pastor there. It was then, that exact moment, God spoke to my heart. It didn’t make sense of course, here we were- your average family- and we already had four children at home. Why would God choose US to embark on this journey?

But one thing I have learned in my life is that God doesn’t always ask those of us who are ‘perfect’ or ‘experienced’ or AT ALL prepared. He asks those of us who have heart for Him and who are willing to obey. We DID NOT have the money sitting there waiting for us in some account… we didn’t know anything at all about adopting… It was a huge risk- a huge leap of faithbut God stretched us and grew us into what he needed along the journey…

That Sunday on the drive home from church I looked at my husband and I asked him if he would ever consider adopting? I quickly rambled on- giving all of my reasons- and admitting that I knew I was probably being silly, that we had four children, but that I just felt a calling today. On and on and on I quickly rambled then Todd looked at me for just a moment and said “yes Amy, lets look into it”.

The days and months flew by as we began to research and pray… at first adopting can be overwhelming, confusing and just plain scary. And unfortunately-at times the comments we received from people were less than positive- but I knew that God didn’t always ask us to choose the ‘popular route’ or to do things that were necessarily EASY. We landed on the India adoption program but God closed that door and 2 years later we got a call that our baby girl from Guatemala had been born.

She was small, and sick (only 4 lbs) but she was a fighter. We prayed and prayed as a family and slowly our little girl began to grow stronger. It’s so hard to explain how much you can literally fall in love with a child that you have only seen on paper- but that we did. Honestly, it was absolutely no different than what I felt for our biological children. In July, 2004 we brought home our 6 month old baby girl, Aleigha Grace, from Guatemala. Our entire family has been given such joy in watching each precious phase she goes through and receiving the unconditional love that she shares with each one of us daily. At her age she still has no idea how the love from God and two different women brought her to where she is today… all she knows now is that she is cherished- the way every child deserves to be. We are blessed beyond measure by this precious child of God. Once again in 2005 the Lord began to speak to our hearts.

Once again I came up with every reason why we should not adopt, (almost all financially related of course- gag) and once again God showed us that those ‘reasons’ were not really good

reasons at all- and so once again we obeyed. Being our second adoption…the paper chase was much easier… and we just knew this second baby would be just as much of a blessing as our first. We were #3 on the waiting list for a baby girl and couldn’t wait to receive a referral for our precious newborn!

Then early one morning I got on my computer and there was an email from an agency that happened to place children out of the same orphanage we were adopting from. As I began to scroll down the email that was titled “Available Children in Guatemala” I saw the many faces of beautiful baby boys and girls and it touched my heart to look at their sweet faces…

Then all of a sudden I saw her… a little girl with the biggest smile I had ever seen, eyes that twinkled, and a head full of curls. It hit me- hard. I knew in my heart that I was looking at MY daughter for the very first time. It didn’t make sense to me I admit. This wasn’t the newborn baby girl that I had imagined… she wasn’t wrapped in a blanket with a pink bow in her hair… she was 3 -years -old, she had a full head of unruly curls and a gleam in her eye that told me she had a personality of her own.. How could this be? After a few hours of questioning my sanity and trying to bargain with God himself, I approached my husband with her picture. Yes he thought she was adorable… but he too, I believe, questioned my sanity- and also reminded me that we were not able to accept any referral yet. We needed to wait for our tax return to come so that we had the money to begin the process. It just was not the right time. If only the check was in the mail… Hours passed and still I couldn’t get this little girl out of my head… How would a 4– year-old fit into our family? How would I communicate with her when she spoke Spanish and I English? I wondered about the unknown of her past… Was “I” capable of handling this?

But I couldn’t quit thinking about her. The questions kept coming, the doubts and the many, many fears… and then I realized if I, a grown adult was afraid… what must this precious little of girl of just 3 feel? How afraid must she be? She was alone in the world, her birthmother whom she had loved for 3 years had just left her in an orphanage full of strangers and she had no one- nothing- of her own. How could “I” be afraid? I had a home, a husband, and a family who loved me and would support me no matter what. With that thought- I found myself picking up the phone and calling my agency to inquire about the 3- year- old girl whose picture I had seen on the ‘Available Children’s’ list. The agency told me that yes she was in their care but that they thought a family was already considering her- that she would already have a home. When I hung up the phone I just knew there was a mistake, I knew the Lord was telling me something different…. Less than 2 hours later the phone rang- and I was right. The other family decided that she was ‘too old’ that they wanted a little girl who was under 2and so if we were interested to let them know. Once again, I began to pray and question… I pleaded with the Lord to please let me know if I was doing the right thing- to somehow make it VERY obvious what His plans were for that little girl and for our family. That afternoon my husband came in from getting the mail. He had a funny look on his face… and he asked me to sit 33

down. “The little girl in the picture, he began…” “I think you are right- she was meant to be ours”. You see, the tax return money that we had been waiting for- the one that wasn’t ‘supposed’ to come for weeks- it came. It was in the mailbox that very day. The very day we saw our daughter for the first time‐ the money came. God did answer my prayer- and he made it very obvious that she was meant to be ours.

The weeks and months passed by and we continued to feel God’s hand upon our adoption process. We were able to go spend 4 days at the orphanage with Mya- learning about her world, her culture and falling in love. We were also able to meet her birthmother and grandmother on our pick up tripsomething we will forever cherish.

Mya Sofia has been home for just a little over a year now. For those who say a picture is worth a thousand words- they are so right! She still has a gleam in her eye and a head full of curls.

She is funny, creative, sweet, loving and most of all- she fits into our family as if she had been there her whole life. I could not have hand picked a more perfect child and I am in awe still that God allowed ME to be this precious little girls mother. The language barrier that I was so afraid of was not an issue at all.

As a matter of fact- she learned complete English in just 3 months time. It has been such an amazing experience for me to see life through her eyes… so many things that we had been taking for granted she has shown us how to appreciate again.

Yes, there are days when I look at her and feel sad about what I missed out on… the almost 4 years of her life that I didn’t get to experience. Yet then I think of how close I came to missing out on the rest of her precious life- I am so thankful for the years together we have yet to come…

Last night when I tucked Mya and Aleigha into bed we prayed together, giggled together, hugged and then as I walked from their room I heard them say in unison “we love you mommy to the moon and back”. Now that is what life is all about. We are so blessed by these brave and amazing little girls and so thankful that we stepped out in faith and accepted the blessings God had in mind for our family. We could have let ourselves miss this.

The strangest thing about adoption is the fact that all of your friends and family will tell you that having you as an adoptive parent is such a blessing for the child. That he or she is the lucky one for having you in their life. I can honestly tell you that these people have it all backwards. We are the ones who are truly blessed. We shouldn’t be surprised at this because it is written in God’s word. Matthew 18:5 reads “Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me”.

The process of adoption was intimidating at first, but with the help of a good agency it became a journey of discovery for our family. The adoption process is filled with questions, answers, stress, mystery, excitement, joy, and most of all love. It teaches you that you are stronger than you could have ever imagined.

It teaches you that life is much sweeter than you could have ever dreamed.

I share our story in hopes that someone will feel a tug at their heart strings for these children waiting for adoption in overseas

orphanages. God places these things in our hearts to move us outside our comfort level so we can help HIM make a difference. I hope and pray that people will see these children for what is in their heart and soul, and not look at them for the color of their skin. No, neither Aleigha nor Mya will have my eyes or my nose, but they have all of my heart. I will never take for granted the privilege of being called “mommy” by these sweet, precious girls. We knew going into the adoption process we would have different colors, different countries and different cultures, but we would share the same Lord- and that we believe is more than enough. I know the process can be hard- I was there. I know that it is a huge leap of faith. But I also know that there is nothing else more amazing than the miracle of adoption. I thank GOD that I was led on the path to adopt and I wonder what it will take for each one of these waiting children to be adopted… and have the things we take for granted, such as a family, a home, and hopes and dreams. I wonder what it will take for more people to open their eyes and be willing to obey... to give up some of their 'stuff', some of their free time, all the things the world holds so high‐ and be willing to love that which God holds closest to His heart...

Thank you God for our miracle of adoption…

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world." James 1:27 Comments Anonymous said: Yours is such a beautiful story. I love it! One of my biggest joys is that I met you on your journey!! You're awesome. DebbieT Mob said: Thank you for sharing your beautiful story. God showed Himself so much and in so many different ways in our adoption process too. I love that they love you "to the moon and back" that is so cute and Yes that is what its all about!

Angel said: AMEN! What a beautiful story. I love to hear it. You are so right. Adoption is the most amazing thing I have ever experienced. It's a miracle. Angel

12/28/2007 7:48:00 PM

New Years Resolutions Come on, admit it. We've all tried them… you know, "I’m going to lose 10 lbs, I’m going to eat healthier, exercise more, give up smoking, never say a cuss word again" (You fill in the blank).

So, I got to thinking this year about all that I needed to change~ all the things "I” wish were different about me…and then it hit me. What if God has something more in mind for my life than the American Dream? Something better? Something more than squeezing into a size 5 pair of jeans? What if I could actually get to know Jesus even more and I could be increasingly useful to Him here on earth? Are those the changes I really need to be 34

working towards? And what if my focus each morning - not once a year - was on renewing my intimacy with Him and allowing him to change me where He sees need? “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."

Proverbs 16:3 Our New Years Resolutions come from our priorities. Do our goals reflect our priorities? And even more importantly, are our priorities in line with our faith? Or do they serve us and only us? In Rick Warren’s best selling book The Purpose‐Driven Life, he reminds us that life is not about us. We should not be living simply for ourselves. We are here for a much more significant purpose than that. Are we allowing God's purpose for our lives to be our first priority or are we pursuing our American dream?

Real change - real resolution-comes from inside- a heart change. In order to change I must be willing to turn myself over to the Lord, day by day. I can choose to focus on ME- or I can choose to focus on Him. But I cannot do both. “But seek first his [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

12/29/2007 8:19:00 AM

Lord, I know how blessed I am to arise each morning knowing that joy is mine because of you. My life is a gift that you have provided daily‐ and I choose to treasure this gift and use it wisely to bring glory and honor to you. Help me to remember that it is not about me… I trust you to determine the purpose of my life. I resign myself to your perfect will.

Will you allow the Lord to use you in 2008? Fully? No holding back? If so, I guarantee 2008 will be the best year of your life.

Another weekend to face with still no concrete answers for our future... I wonder what you are doing, if you are happy, content? I picture you toddling around in feetie pajama's this morning asking for your milk... I wish more than anything I could be there holding you. I can't see what the future holdsbut I rest in the fact that God can. He knows. He cares. And He loves you even more than I can even fathom. As hard as it is to wait... I am thankful that we can both rest in our Saviors arms as He works out every detail of our lives.

Today for Sweet 'E'...

Comments Anonymous said: I like this post. This is definitely something I struggle with. It sometimes hard to just let go and let God, ya know? I've already been trying to do that more and more in my life. You're inspiring to keep on! DebbieT Angel said: GREAT POST! This is such a good word. Girl if you liked Rick Warren's book you need to check out his wifes book.

It's called Dangerous Surrender... YOU ARE GONNA LOVE IT! Russ got it for me. So soooooo good. About opening our eyes to God's true call for us. love ya friend. Angel Mob said: I knew there was a reason I stumbled upon your blog. I really needed to read that. Yes, I need to commit my life more to the Lord and see what changes He has for me.

Thank You

Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Psalm 143:8 Lord, I know that I do not have to fear the 'whatever' or 'whenever' in my live because I trust YOU to determine how the paths of my life and sweet 'E's will shake out. You have ordained our destinations‐ Your will for our lives is perfect. Help me to be patient and to wait for your perfect timing... for your perfect will. There are lessons to be learned even in this temporary pain‐ help me to see them and grow from them.

Help me to be more like you. I love you Lord. Thank you for letting me rest in you. Please watch over Sweet 'E'.

Comments Anonymous said: Oh Amy, I hope your heart can rest soon and you hear SOMETHING! He is such a sweetheart and what a perfect place he would fill in your family. Here's hoping....

DebbieT

Jenny said: Yes!!! I love this! I am going to ask God to use me more...but I'm gonna do it with a 10 lbs lighter body!!! Ha! Love ya! jenny

Amazed by grace said: I'm praying for you Amy. He would be such a blessing and also so blessed to have you for a Mommy!

Sarah Angel said: I sure hope we hear soon. I am holding my breath with you friend. He is a treasure. In my heart he is yours. Angel

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Noah Bear said: Oh Amy, I'm just dying over here waiting for some news. Nandini's future hubby needs to be with your family NOW! (Obviously, patience is not my strong point). Let us know as soon as you hear something!

Leslie Mob said: What a cute little guy. I will make a prayer for you that he will be with you soon.

12/29/2007 6:05:00 PM

I remember...

One of the reasons I brought my 12 -year -old daughter, Addisyn, with me on the mission trip to Guatemala was because I thought it would be a good idea for her to really see, first hand, how most of the world lives. You know, sort of shock her- make her realize how she has so much. I thought I'd teach her not to be asking for so much- like preteen age girls are known for doing. But God knows we are like that ... like when we sit in church and think to ourselves- "oh boy I wish so and so was here to hear THIS sermon" that is when God hits us right between the eyes and teaches us.

I was at Walmart today with my boys. (I have this love/hate relationship with Walmart but that is a whole other story).

Anyway- we were exchanging something for a different size and as I waited in line behind all the others who were making their returns and exchanges- the carts lined up from wall to wall caught my attention. They were sitting there filled to the rim with returns- most likely doubles of gifts people already have- or gifts people didn't really want. God used that moment to draw me back... to remind me of our time in Guatemala, like I had prayed He would. Lord, please change me, please let me always remember...

I have been to Guatemala several times now- 2 times to bring home our girls, one time to visit Mya while she was still at the orphanage, and the 4th time for our missions trip to Eagles Nest Orphanage. Of course bringing home our girls was one of the most amazing experiences of my life- but the mission tripit was life changing. Not only because we held, diapered, sang to and fell in love with the orphans- but also because this was the first chance I had ever really been given to love the people outside of the orphanage. By the end of the week over 400 Guatemalan children and mothers attended the Vacation Bible school we put on. I remember sitting in one of the pews one day and in walked this group of children. I'm not sure why this particular group of kids touched my heart so much- maybe it was because they were dirty from head to toe... but really most of them were. Maybe it was because one of the little girls reminded me of my daughter Aleigha. Although, I saw her beauty in a lot of the little girls. I think though the real reason was because underneath the dirt and aside from the beauty- I 36

saw HOPE and real JOY ... and it touched me to the core. How does one carry on when they have so little yet still have hope and joy ? When life has dealt them- even at such young agesmore difficulties than I will probably ever have to face in my American Life. It was then that I realized- they came, they walked in shoes too small, sometimes carrying younger siblings because of the hope and joy in Jesus. REAL hope. REAL joy. You see- real hope and real joy do not come from material items.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heave, where mother and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Mathew 6: 19‐21 Real hope and real joy come from God and God alone.

Those Walmart carts were overflowing with things that many of us thought would bring joy to someone else... and there they sat, cart after cart full, being returned. We missed the point. We had given the things that we all already have anyway- too much stuff- and no where to store it. (Hint: all storage bins go on sale after Christmas for a reason) I began to wondered to myself- had I this Christmas, even once, stopped to share the gift of real hope and joy to anyone? Had I shared Jesus with anyone? Or did I rush through the store, piling things in my cart, trying to give my own kids all the latest things and the coolest toys? Sure we went to church, sure we sang Happy Birthday to Jesus on Christmas day, and sure we did our daily prayers. But I can't help but shake the feeling that I still clung to the thought that I could 'buy' joy.

As I sat in the pew that day I remember feeling sorry for those children because they didn't possess all the 'things' I do... but I had it all wrong. They sat in their pew singing to Jesus, eager to learn more about their Lord. Their hope and joy had nothing to do with things that money could buy. I pray that I will learn to be just like them- eager to learn more about Jesus and content with what He has given to me. Lord, please let me have faith like a child.

12/30/2007 8:47:00 PM

Heaven gained an Angel today

Today, my precious friend Melissa went to be with the Lord.

The pain and struggles that she has endured over the past few years are gone. I praise God that she is resting at the feet of Jesus and will suffer no more. My heart is full of wonderful memories of her love, laughter and friendship. Her smile was contagious- as was her faith. Thank you God for the 38 years she was here.....and for the promise that one day we will be together again. I love you my precious friend- you will be missed.

If you have an extra minute could you please pray for her husband and 2 daughters that she left behind. They still have a lot to face and I know they would appreciate it.

"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done. " Luke 22:42 Comments

Comments

Jenny said: Love you Amy

Jenny said: Can we move there yet? I'm ready!!!

Angel said: Thinking of you friend. I am so sorry. Love, Angel

Anonymous said: Amen, sister! I've thought so many of those same thoughts this Christmas season. Spending time in Guatemala was so eye‐opening in so many ways and SO amazing! Please God, let us never forget those moments. Love ya, DebbieT

Mob said: I did pray for the husband and family. That is the saddest part of dying.

Amazed by grace said: Thank you for this great reminder. Jesus is all we need.

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1/1/2008 2:00:00 PM

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Happy New Year! I hope you all had as much fun as we did bringing in the new year. Thought I'd share some pictures of our family fun. We took the kids to Six Flags and then to the Cotton Bowl Parade. I cherish family time- sometimes life gets so busy with work, school, sports, etc and we forget to just enjoy the time we have together as a family. I am thankful for times like this where we can just be silly together and have fun.

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Amazed by grace said: I'm so glad you made so many good family memories to bring in the new year! Sarah Anonymous said: So much fun!! Happy new year, Block family!!! DebbieT Mob said: What a fun way to ring in the new year! Looks like a really fun time.

Happy New Year Angel said: I love love LOVE this family. So glad you had fun.

Looks great. Hugs, Angel

1/2/2008 10:50:00 AM

What will you do with today?

I got this from http://manytimesblessed.blogspot.com/ today and thought it was worth repeating.

Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?

Then I said, Here am I; send me.

Isaiah 6:8 I have heard this verse a million times, but today I read it and it spoke to me in a new way. So often we think of this verse as being about missions, but I really think it is about anything God wants us to do.

I think it is important to sit down every now and then and ask yourself, What is God asking me to do - and am I standing there saying "Here I am, send me" or am I saying "No! It's too hard or too big or too weird - what will people think?" It is a constant struggle for me to say Yes to God when He speaks to me, especially if it is out of my comfort zone. I like my comfort zone!

So, what is God asking you today and what will your answer be?

1/2/2008 12:01:00 PM

Be yourself- everyone else is already taken....

As I watched Aleigha and Mya sit at our table today creating a masterpiece with markers, paint, crayon, stickers, and glue-I wondered at how they each had their own idea of what was 'beautiful'. It reminded me of how God must think of us- each of us a different color, shape and size with different gifts. Yet why is it that we are so inclined to look around us and try to be like everyone else? Why is it we are afraid to step out- do something unique- different- be creative- be ourselves-and go against what the world sees as beautiful? Why are we living our life trying to please the world rather than trying to please God? We cling so tightly to those things of material value… we trust in them, believing they will bring us happiness... we trust in them so much that we are so afraid to step out and show we see value in those things that the world views as ‘worthless’ because of what someone else might think. We look around and copy what the world is telling us to view as beautiful and of worth. We dress in what the magazines tell us are ‘cool’ and we carry pictures of the latest stars to the beautiful shop trying to look just like them. Psalms 139:4 tell says"I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful I know that full well." We are fearfully and wonderfully made by GOD HIMSELF. So, if we really believe this then we know that even those society views as ‘mistakes’, disposable, worthlessARE OF VALUE. Are we living that way? Do we care about the orphan who is HIV+... are we reaching out to the widow who is alone today? Did we drive by the homeless man without a care today so we wouldn't have to wait in line to buy our $6.50 cup of coffee from Starbucks?

So Go ahead- be yourself- step out- you can do it… today… trust Him- one little step... follow HIM…. Obey- be willing, close your ears and eyes to the world, open your heart to those the world views as less than... see the beauty... live your purpose.

“And God said, “I will be with you.” Exodus 3:12 Comments Angel said: Amen! Angel

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1/4/2008 7:30:00 PM

Children of the World

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Meet our new boys... for 2 days anyway. (I'd love to keep them forever if it was that easy!) On Sunday one of the Children of the World choirs is singing at our church and we got the privilege of hosting 3 precious boys for 2 days. They are so sweet and so much fun! 2 of them are from India and one is from Uganda. They all speak amazing English and have the best manners ever. I'm so proud of my 3 boys for giving up their beds for 2 nights so we could all enjoy having these boys at our house. What a blessing!

Comments Anonymous said: Amy, It looks like you had so much fun with those boys and I'm sure they had a blast too! World Help sounds like a great organization...I'm gonna check out their website. Thanks for sharing the boys with us! DebbieT Anonymous said: We hosted 3 girls from that choir about 3 years ago. It was so much fun! Have a great time. Enjoy their performance ‐ they are amazing.

Debbie M Mob said: what nice sounding boys. that shows you are a good Mom that your kids share well :) Jenny said: Oh my word....they are too cute. You can just see the energy on their faces! Have a blast!!!! Titi Jenny

1/6/2008 8:18:00 PM

World Help

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It's been a long weekend and I am wiped out- nine kids included! But I wanted to share a few more pictures of our boys from World Help. I told myself going into this that I wouldn't loose my heart~ but I guess that sometimes telling yourself something and actually following through with it are two totally different things. So yep, I lost my heart this weekend to 3 orphan boys with amazing personalities, sweet smiles and voices like angels. As a matter of fact, I am listening to their CD right now. The founder of World Help is a man by the name of Vernon Brewer. He actually attended my church and was a member there. I just love the church we belong toand I am so thankful that we found it. It's a bigger church than we have gone to in the past- but I love how despite the size it is so obvious that they really care about every single individual.

And they don't just care- they really encourage you to seek out the gifts and talents God has given you. But my favorite thing is that they are very involved in missions and that is where my heart is. The 3 boys we hosted this weekend were just incredible. Their pasts are full of pain- but in their eyes was so much hope. This year World Help is focusing on the children suffering from the impact of HIV/AIDS, especially in SubSaharan Africa. The purpose of this Children of the World choir is to bring these children into churches and give people a glimpse of the children who are in need to raise awareness. I have found that in the past it has been so easy for me to hear a story about the devastation of HIV/AIDS- yet only minutes later move onto something else I am doing and 'forget'. Having these boys in our home this last weekend definitely made a lasting impression. This weekend we had the chance to treat them to a real family life- take them rollerskating, cook hot dogs over an open fire, read bedtime stories, and tuck them into bed at night. At the end of their 10 month tour they will go back to their lives in Uganda and India and back to the harsh realities of life for them. And they have been some of the 'lucky' ones...

If you are looking for a place to step in and give I encourage you to look up worldhelp.net. info@worldhelp.net. It's a great organization.

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Gram

Amazed by grace said: What a great blessing this weekend was for you and for these kids!

Anonymous said: Again I must tell you how proud I am of you and your incredible family. The pics are darling. Thank you for being so caring.

Mom

1/7/2008 9:55:00 AM

Soups on!

1/6/2008 9:19:00 PM

Fair Warning...

It's Monday.... I'm exhausted- and I am faced with what to make for dinner again.(always my hardest decision of the day!)

I found this really easy soup recipe awhile back and my kids seemed to really like it. So, since I am fighting a cold I thought I'd try this easy ham/corn/cheese chowder again.

2 c. ham, diced 2 cans cream style corn 1/2 c. chopped green onion 2 c. instant mashed potatoes 4 c. milk 2 tbsp butter 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Salt and pepper to taste Lightly brown ham in large pan. Barely cover with water, salt and pepper. Add butter, milk, corn, onions and instant potatoes. Cook gently 10 minutes - stir in cheese until melted.

Serve with thick slices of corn bread on the side. Yummmy!

Just a fair warning here... if you live anywhere within a 200 mile radius from me- STAY OFF THE ROADS. (hee/hee) My 15year- old son Keegan just obtained his drivers permit and in one easy summary- SCARY. I took him for a little cruise this afternoon... and all I can say is THANK GOD for whoever invented the seat belt.

1/7/2008 10:14:00 AM

Favorite Foto Fun

Comments Anonymous said: Go Keegan. You'll do fine on the road. Can't believe you can be old enough to drive.

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Comments Anonymous said: I remember Trav when he was like that. I wish he still was. Stay as wonderful as you are always Trav.

God has wonderful things planned for you.

Proud G

1/7/2008 12:23:00 PM

Thought of the day...

I love quotes- always have. I love how they can just stop you dead in your tracks- make you think and put it all into prospective in one little sentence. So, I thought every once in awhile on here I'd blog my favorite quote. Here is one for today: If we wait for the moment when everything, absolutely everything is ready, we shall never begin. - Ivan Sergeyevich Turgeney What has God been calling you to do today that you are waiting for everything to be perfect before you begin? The Bible tells us just to obey and let Him work out the details and make everything fall perfectly into place...

I have so many great pictures hidden in my computer that I thought it might be fun to share one of my favorites once in awhile. This is my oldest son, Travis. What can I say- I adore the kid. There are so many cool things about Travis but one of the things I love most about him is that he always puts on a pretense of being a 'tough' guy- strong- able to take on the world. But I, as his mother, get to see the sweet, kind, loving heart underneath the muscles. These pictures are of him when he was just a tow headed 2 years old making silly faces for the camera and then when he was 16 years old and looking 'cool'.

(He's 17 now). Anyway Travis- if you are reading this (He informs me that not many teens would think it was cool to sit around reading their moms blog spot!) I want you to know that I am SO PROUD of you and I love you with all that I am! Thank you for being a wonderful big brother to your younger siblings.

Your life- the choices you make each day really do effect and inspire your younger siblings. I know God has BIG plans for your future and I am blessed beyond measure to walk beside you as He unfolds His plans. Stay true to who you are- even through all the peer pressure you face at your age- and know that you are loved always by many. Some days I wish I could go back to the days when you were that tow headed 2 year oldjust for a minute- yet I am so thankful for today and the time we have together here and now. I love you my son and I thank God for you daily.

1/8/2008 9:12:00 AM

Did you hear God today?

The man whispered, "God, speak to me" and a Chickadee sang.

But, the man did not hear.

So the man yelled "God, speak to me!"

And, the thunder rolled across the sky.

But, the man did not listen.

The man looked around and said, "God let me see you."

And a star shined brightly.

But the man did not notice.

And, the man shouted, "God show me a miracle!"

And, a life was born.

But, the man did not know.

So, the man cried out in despair, "Touch me God, and let me know you are here!"

Whereupon, God reached down and touched the man.

But, the man brushed the butterfly away and walked on.

Don't miss out on a blessing because it isn't packaged the way that you expect.

Lord, help me to not miss out on a single thing you are showing 47

me today‐ because it wasn't the way "I" thought it should be."Be prepared in season and out of season" 2 Timothy 4:2. I know my emotions are unreliable and will change, but you are consistant‐ always the same. I can count on you. Help me to make myself available to you always and allow you to use me in any situation. Open my eyes and help me to focus only on you.

Comments Jenny said: Yes...I did hear God's voice and it came through the voice of my sister. Thanks for the great advice for Ty. I don't know what I'd do without you!

1/8/2008 10:35:00 AM

Waiting...

I'll go ahead and admit that being patient is NOT my strength.

You see, I seem to always have a plan- you know, one that "I" think is just perfect-as if I can see into the future and have it all figured out. So,after going through 2 adoptions (so far) you would think that I would have learned a LOT of patience. But no, God is still shaking His head at me as I scurry around down here trying to makes things work out the way I think they should be.

I haven't explained a lot on here so far about 'Sweet E'- mostly because we are at a place where we have basically told God we are open- and now...we wait. Wait for His plan to unfold. I think one of the hardest things about waiting is for one- we really believe what we are doing is a good thing, and you know what- it might be. But maybe, just maybe, God has a bigger plan- a better plan that will effect more people- change more lives- for His glory. Secondly, I hate to wait because that would mean letting someone else make the decisions- be in charge.

And in my human mind, I sort of like to think I know what is best. But obviously, from my past track record- I am quite capable of making mistakes. And God- God doesn't ever make

mistakes. So who am I to question Him- the master‐ my creator.? Who am I to think I know better than GOD? So today, as hard as it is for my human mind to accept- I will wait. "Be still and know that I am God". Psalms 46:10 Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried;Quietly, patiently, lovingly, God replied.I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate...and the Master so gently said,"Wait.""Wait? you say wait?" my indignant reply."Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!"Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard?By faith I have asked, and I'm claiming your Word.My future and all to which I relatehangs in the balance and you tell me to Wait?"I'm needing a 'yes', a go-ahead sign.Or even a 'no,' to which I'll resign.You promised, dear Lord, that if we believe,We need but to ask, and we shall receive.Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry:I'm weary of asking! I need a reply.Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fatemy Master replied again, "Wait."So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut,and grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting...for what?"He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes met with mine...and He tenderly said, "I could give you a sign.I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.I could give all you seek and pleased you would be.You'd have what you want, but you wouldn't know Me.You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint.You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.You'd not learn to see through clouds of despair;you'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there.You'd not know the joy of resting in Mewhen darkness and silence are all you can see.You'd never experience the fullness of lovewhen the peace of My spirit descends like a dove.You would know that I give, and I save, for a start,But you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.The glow of My comfort late into the night,the faith that I give when you walk without sight.The depth that's beyond getting just what you askFrom an infinite God who makes what you have last.You'd never know should your pain quickly flee,what it means that My grace is sufficient for thee.Yes, your dearest dreams overnight would come true,but oh, the loss if I lost what I'm doing in you.So, be silent, my child, and in time you will seethat the greatest of gifts is to truly know me.And though oft My answers seem terribly late,My most precious answer of all is still "WAIT".~Author Unknown Comments Kimmie said: Hmmmm, Amy as we are in waiting mode here too...I can so relate.

Can't wait to hear more...

I have Psalm 46:10 (be still and know that I am God) over my kitchen cupboard...a girlfriend who was knewly saved, bought it for me last year‐she heard God say that I would need it~ as we waited on this adoption to Guatemala...I look at it often and remember that God is in control.

sending a hug and hoping it helps in your wait.

Sweet‐E is a doll!

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Kimmie mama to 6 one homemade and 5 adopted Amazed by grace said: "I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry." Psalm 40:1

I'm praying for you! It's so good to know that God has a plan even in our waiting!

Sarah Anonymous said: Oh Amy. I am praying as you learn patience. It is such a hard thing to learn and I sturggle each day. Seems like some days I forget everything I have already learned.

So glad I stumbled onto your blog. Hang in there. God has special plans for you and "E".

CindiK

1/8/2008 4:19:00 PM

Our day

Today my awesome friend Leslie came over for a play date. I never want to take for granted the blessing of the friendships I have made throughout our adoption journey. Some of the coolest people I have met in my life all came from the bond we created through adoption. Leslie was one if the 'miracle of adoption families' I featured on here previously. Her son Eli, from Guatemala, was in the orphanage the same time as Aleigha. We have been friends since and I am so thankful for her support, insight and friendship. Leslie also has a son, Noahfrom India, and recently brought home her beautiful daughter Nandini from there also. It was so much fun spending the afternoon with them, eating way to many cupcakes and listening to our children giggle and play. Thanks for coming over Leslie and giving up your afternoon to be with us- we love you guys!!

Comments Rhonda said: Amy, I just wanted to let you know how much I have enjoyed reading your blog. I pull it up sometimes 2 or 3 times a day and get so excited when there is a new entry! I LOVE being able to keep up with your family on a daily basis! We love you guys!

Rhonda Cooper

1/9/2008 11:27:00 AM

Thought for the day...

Start living now. Stop saving the good china for that special occasion. Stop withholding your love until that special person materializes. Every day you are alive is a special occasion.

Every minute, every breath, is a gift from God. ~Mary Manin Morrissey Lord, how many times have you heard me say "I'll be happy when I finally get my dream job, I'll be happy when I loose ten pounds...when I get that raise... when we move into our new 49

Angel said: That is the cutest picture!!! OH MY WORD! You could win contests with that one girl. ;0) SOOOOO CUTE! Angel

house... when my husband works shorter hours...once the kids clean up more...when our adopted child comes home... Lord, let me live each day of my life knowing that because of you it is a gift‐ today is a gift. I will never, ever live this moment again...

Let me be thankful for today‐ for the blessings you have given me right now. Let me live my life to the fullest and make a difference‐ right here, right now. Today.

Rhonda said: This is my all time favorite photo too! I actually have a poster size print in Walt's bedroom. Thank you for posting it!

Rhonda

1/9/2008 12:30:00 PM 1/9/2008 11:38:00 AM

Favorite Foto Fun

2007 International Adoption Statistics

I thought this was sort of cool to see how many international adoptions were done in the following countries in 2007.

From least to most:Poland- 84Mexico- 89Haiti- 190Phillipines 265Columbia- 310Taiwan-311Liberia- 314India416Kazakhstan- 540Ukraine- 606Vietnam- 626South Korea939Ethiopia- 1,255Russia- 2,207Guatemala- 4, 728China- 5,453

1/10/2008 11:12:00 AM

A glass of milk...

Is that cute or what? This is one of my all time favorite photo's.

This picture was taken in Destin Florida over spring break a couple of years ago of Aleigha and her friend Walt at the beach. (by the way, the matching swim suits were not planned). Walt is also from Guatemala and we met his awesome parents on the airplane on our way to bring Aleigha home in July, 2004. Walt's new mommy and daddy were carrying an empty stroller so my husband walked up to them and asked them if they were adopting too! A special bond was made that moment that will last a lifetime. That day, that priceless moment of meeting our babies for the first time will forever tie our families together and once again- God couldn't have blessed us more. Love you Rhonda!!!

Comments

I came across this story and it really touched my heart. How many times would I have thought to give the glass of milk instead of just the water?? How many times could I have made a difference but instead missed the opportunity to be God's hands and feet?

"We are labourers together with God". 1 Corinthians 3:9

One day, a poor boy who was selling goods from door to door to pay his way through school, found he had only one thin dime left, and he was hungry. He decided he would ask for a meal at the next house. However, he lost his nerve when a lovely young woman opened the door. Instead of a meal he asked for a drink of water.

She thought he looked hungry so brought him a large glass of milk. He drank it slowly, and then asked, "How much do I owe 50

you?"

"You don't owe me anything," she replied. "Mother has taught us never to accept pay for a kindness."

He said..... "Then I thank you from my heart." As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt stronger physically, but his faith in God and man was strong also. He had been ready to give up and quit.

Year's later that young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were baffled. They finally sent her to the big city, where they called in specialists to study her rare disease. Dr. Howard Kelly was called in for the consultation. When he heard the name of the town she came from, a strange light filled his eyes. Immediately he rose and went down the hall of the hospital to her room.

Dressed in his doctor's gown he went in to see her. He recognized her at once. He went back to the consultation room determined to do his best to save her life. From that day he gave special attention to the case.

After a long struggle, the battle was won. Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final bill to him for approval.

He looked at it, then wrote something on the edge and the bill was sent to her room. She feared to open it, for she was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it all. Finally she looked, and something caught her attention on the side of the bill.

She read these words.....

"Paid in full with one glass of milk" (Signed)Dr. Howard Kelly Tears of joy flooded her eyes as her happy heart prayed: "Thank You, God, that Your love has spread abroad through human hearts and hands."

Comments

In our lives we cannot remember a time that there was an Aleigha without a Mya. Where you find one- you will find the other. I can sneak into their room in the middle of the afternoon and there they will be, heads meshed together playing away- connected. As I sit here typing they are right outside the window… on the same bike… Mya peddling, Aleigha riding on the back (sound familiar Jenny) They spend their day playing together- being sisters.

So I find it interesting the number of times I am out in public and I get the question “Are they REAL sisters?” The mama bear part of me wants to scream "OF COURSE THEY ARE REAL? Do they look plastic to you??" I wonder how in the world anyone could ever be so insensitive to ask a question like that in front of my girls. These comments bother me the most because they imply that becoming a family through adoption is "less than" becoming a family by giving birth. Aleigha and Mya see themselves as family- pure and simple. The reality is that adoption is a method of joining a family, just like birth.

Angel said: OH WOW! That is such a great story. Angel Angel said: OH WOW! That is such a great story. Angel Noah Bear said: Awww, man, Amy. I'm sitting here on hold with the doctor's office and reading your email with tears welling up in my eyes. Both of your posts today really got me.

Can't you put a "Mascara Alert" at the top of your teary‐eyed blogs???

Leslie :‐)

1/10/2008 3:40:00 PM

Are they 'real' sisters?

Yet the other part of me, the part that knew adopting a child of a different race- knows these questions will come. And while I admit my first instinct is to become angry, I know that as a transracial adoptive parent I have to be aware of how my responses will effect my girls. I need to see this as an opportunity to enlighten people, embrace diversity, and teach my children that we are all different and that uniqueness should be celebrated. By doing this I am parenting not for today- but for tomorrow.

By being sensitive to how I choose to respond to these questions, not only am I teaching my children how to answer, but also representing the views society has on adoption. By being proud of our adoption decision, of our multi-cultural family-my children will be proud as well. By having conversations about race, diversity, culture, and adoption -it allows room for my children to ask questions as well. It opens the door for me to ask my children how the comments made by the stranger or friend made them feel- and will give us a chance to discuss it. And in the instance that we didn't respond to the question the way that we had wished (we may be taken by surprise, angered, etc.) or how my girls wished we had 51

answered (as in maybe saying too much or too little) we will all learn and grow.

What I want people to know is that in adoptive families- our joys and trials are as authentic as those of any family that is genetically linked. All of my kids do the same things ‘birth’ siblings do, they love each other, fight with each other, share each others clothes . They play together, celebrate holidays together, and do chores. Being real can comes in many different forms. I pray for the day when the world understands that.

1/12/2008 7:55:00 PM

Hand me downs...

Once again I am thankful for a God who understands… A God who was an adoptive father himself.

Comments Our Real Life said: I know exactly where you are coming from.

People will stop me and ask if my two are twins. If I say no, the next questions out of their mouth is always "Are they real brother and sister?"

Yes as real as real can be. Blood doesn't make a family, GOD does.

Amy said: I've been reading your posts today, you have a great way of sharing! We are a large family also and I smile as I can relate to some of the things you share.

I must say that adoption has made me much more aware of the Lord's adoption of me and has taken my adoption to a deeper level.

Thank you for sharing.

Kimmie said: Hi Amy;

So glad you connected me to your blog...

How wonderful that your girls are bonded and love each other.

That is a gift from God for sure.

I always try to remember that people are curious and it is an opportunity to plant "seed." We often get looks, though our skin color isn't that different, with one daughter of a tanner color than the rest. I think a family with 6 children isn't that common and that gets people staring most often.

God has given us a story and though some won't have true ears to hear, still we chose to smile and plant seed...as we are always hoping for harvest. ;‐)

blessings to you (and praying for you still!)

Kimmie mama to 6 one homemade and 5 adopted

Having six kids we always appreciate when someone else 'hands us down' their cute clothes. (They can keep their ugly ones-Hee/Hee) Today when I was getting Aleigha and Mya dressed I picked out an outfit for Mya that used to belong to her cousin Maddie. When I told Mya that the outfit she was about to put on used to be worn by Maddie you should have seen how proud she was. She strutted around in that outfit like she was a princess- who had just been given the greatest gift ever. We decided then and there the best thing about hand me downs was not the 'price'... it was loving the person who gave them to you more than life. Thank you Maddie‐ we love you!!

Comments Jenny said: What a sweet post!!!! Madison does not usually part with her clothes..she has a personal attachment with them even though they are 4 sizes too small. She say's, "They're my best friend!" Weird...I know! So the only way I can get her to let loose is to tell her it's going to Mya!!!! Then...NO PROBLEM! Love ya girls! Titi Jenny P.S, Mya you look adorable in them!!!!

Angel said: Soooo good. So true. They are precious. You can just look at them and know they are sisters through and through.

Hugs, Angel

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Noah Bear said: I got Nandini dressed this morning and announced to Simeon that THIS is why we shop garage sales... she looked so incredibly cute... and the whole outfit cost 50 cents (the shoes were the Dora hand‐me‐downs from you!).

BTW, LOVE Mya in that red beret. Ooh la la! (Eli's new saying!).

Leslie

"What happened to you?" The visitor replied, as his hat became a crown of thorns, and a tear fell from his eye, "I took your place."

Lord, thank you for taking my place...

Comments Anonymous said: This was great Amy. Just what I needed as I am getting ready to go to our little church down here. I think I will send this on to the Methodist church in LeRoy. They use these in their newsletters.

Mom

1/12/2008 8:10:00 PM

Prayer Request Sunday I got this idea from of this really cool lady's blog http://overthemoonwithjoy.blogspot.com/ Each Sunday she has prayer request Sunday and prays for all that email her with a request. I thought it was the neatest idea! I would be more than honored to come before the Lord in prayer for YOU. Is there anything I can pray for you about today? I'd love to add you to my prayer journal. All you have to do is leave me a comment or email me at blockamy@hotmail.com and I’ll be on my knees before the Lord for you in prayer each Sunday. I truly believe in the power of prayer. Thank you for this honor.

1/14/2008 8:02:00 AM

Favorite Foto Fun

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6‐7).

1/13/2008 7:13:00 AM

Who took your place?

LOOK CLOSELY... do you see it?? The butterfly that landed on Mya's shoulder?

One day, a man went to visit a church.. He got there early, parked his car, and got out. Another car pulled up and the driver got out and said,"I always park there! You took my place!"

The visitor went inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat and sat down. A young lady from the church Approached him and stated, "That's my seat! You took my place!"

The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude welcome, but said nothing. After Sunday School, the visitor went into the sanctuary and sat down. Another member walked up to him and said, "That's where I always sit! You took my place!"

The visitor was even more troubled by this treatment, but still He said nothing. Later as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them, the visitor stood up, and his appearance began to change. Horrible scars became visible on His hands and on his sandaled feet.

Someone from the congregation noticed him and called out,

This is one of my favorite photo's of Mya. It was taken outside our house on the day she was being dedicated at church. She was so excited for this day. She couldn't wait to put on her 'princess dress' (compliments of my good friend Dana) and she couldn't wait to be dedicated to the Lord in front of the entire church. So, we were outside snapping away at pictures and this pretty little butterfly flew up and landed on her shoulder just as I took the picture. I couldn't help but smile- thank you Lord for the reminder that you are always there, gently waiting for us to notice your presence. "Lord, let our eyes be opened."

Matthew 20:33

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1/14/2008 1:35:00 PM

Reflections...

Have you ever been at a place in your life where you feel like you are running in circles trying to understand...trying to figure out God’s plan for you? The bible tells us that God has a plan for each of our lives... Lately though I have been struggling with trying to understand just what it is He wants me to be doingbecause sometimes even though we are trying to do a ‘good thing’-the ‘right’ thing- God still closes the door. Sometimes this road block can be very painful.

I have changed as a person tremendously over the last 6-8 years. The change has been gradual… but if you knew me before and know me now you would see the change is quite obvious. The biggest change though I see is that I used to totally live my life so that it was pleasing to me… pleasing to the world. And now, well now, most days anyway- without going into a lot of details yet that I am not ready to share- my life is definitely heading in the opposite direction of what the world would view as popular. As often as I hear “Are you crazy?” I know I am going against the norm- going against what other people see as cool. I’m maturing as a Christian. Don’t get me wrong… I still have a long, long ways to go- but from where I came from- it’s been a big change.

“Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things".

Colossians 3:2”

Yet being a Christ follower and living for God can be hard. I was so hoping that it was as easy as handing my life over to God and letting him lead… and the truth is- IT IS-If, ‘I’ didn’t keep getting in the way. “I” meaning my stubbornness in that even though I should know better- I still try to figure things out… and when I jump to solutions too quickly- by-passing the pain, I miss out on the opportunity to trust God. He brought me here, allowed this pain, and I must trust Him to care for me.

Yet, I still find myself acting like a child- tugging at God’s shirttail with the question, "Why?" Why did you not let me have this… or do that… why did it not work out my way? But God in all His wisdom knows that if we always have an answer for things, we will be tempted to rely on ourselves during our pain rather than turning to Him. We are not meant to understand; we are meant to trust. Trust God for what He has brought into our lives, accept that God, who planned our lives from beginning to end, will allow both joy and pain into our lives- for our own good. When we refuse to recognize this and to accept our life as God has given it- we end up with our own agenda- and end up blaming someone else for our hurt. That is where we mess up. We blame others, get angry that things did not go our way. We are so sure that we were right that we miss out on what God was showing us. We can choose to focus on exactly why God has allowed this situation and how it came about, or we can focus on trusting God for the next step.

"Your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21

As children of God, it is crucial for us to trust God and all His ways. If we don't want to be driven crazy by the question of "Why?" we must realize that sometimes there are no answersand accept that no matter how painful it is. The good thing is God’s comfort is greater than our suffering... God understands our pain- because no one has suffered more than our Father in heaven.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him and he shall direct your paths. ‐‐‐Proverbs 3:5‐6”

Lord, please help me to trust… no questions asked… just plain old trust. Help me to not place blame, but to know that through pain, through trial‐ is where you will grow me most. Lord, help my life to be pleasing to you and, more than anything, always, I want to be used by you.

Comments Amazed by grace said: Thank you for this Amy. What a great reminder that God is working through our pain. Your trust is a great encouragement to me!

Sarah Our Real Life said: Life would be so much easier if the word "Why?" was not in our vocabulary. But we are only human.

The best thing about learning to trust God is as we mature we have a beautiful tapestry formed by our obedience.

I am praying you can trust forward and look back and realize how far you have come!

Love and prayers Cindi

1/15/2008 11:53:00 AM

Messy Memories

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Leslie Our Real Life said: How precious. The girls are just beautiful.

Seems like you might have a good couple to entertain the young two. Cupcakes?? What more could a girl want?

Cindi

1/15/2008 9:18:00 PM

My new look!!

I don't know what got into me today... I typically spend half my day cleaning up messes- but today- we decided to MAKE THEM all over the house. We started out by making home made finger paint. Only we decided that using our fingers wasn't exactly what we were looking for- so we used our 'toes' instead.

And if that wasn't enough- Travis and his girlfriend, Cayley, decided to show up with cupcake supplies in hand and make cupcakes with the girls. At our house if you date- you basically have to date the whole family. Poor Cayley, she probably had no idea what she was getting herself into. Her and Travis both had icing smeared all over the side of their face and dripping down their shirt- but they still had a smile on their face. Ahhhh, to be young and in love again.

Comments Amazed by grace said: Wow ‐ this is great! What an excellent mom you are! Your kids are so blessed to have you.

Sarah Noah Bear said: Can we borrow Travis and Cayley sometime?

Or better yet, can I send my lot to your house for a few days?? lol.

Like my new look? It was a gift given to me by my sweet friend Michelle. Michelle is another one of my amazing adoption friends and the girl has a heart of gold. Michelle adopted Abby and Landis from Guatemala and her and her husband are also now in the process of bringing home a gorgeous little girl from Ethiopia~ Sami. Sami will be their 7th child. I love that family!

THANK YOU MICHELLE!!! What an awesome gift!

My new design was done by Nikki. (Pictured in this post) This girl is AMAZING. Amazingly talented and has an amazing heart.

She is giving these blogs a new face lift to raise money for her mission trip to the Dominican Republic. (Pretty cool idea if you ask me!) She went last year for 10 days and and she is going again this summer for the month of July as a student leader with the group called Hero Holiday. If you want to see pictures or read about it, you can read her blog from last summer. She will be blogging again this summer at http://heroholiday07.blogspot.com/ . The mission trip costs a total of $3400. While she is there she will take part in building 2 schools, running a medical clinic, distributing food, clean water, and gifts, and working in an orphanage for kids with 56

special needs. There are so many things a young girl her age could be 'choosing' to do with their free time and my hats off to Nikki. The girls got heart- and I, for one, am inspired by it.

Now go check out her blog and help that girl be God's hands and feet!

(although unfortunately there have been a few of those too).

What I'm talking about is when the laundry is calling and you find THIS!!!!

Comments Our Real Life said: I really like the new look. Is this is same Michelle that adopted through Dillon about the same time as the rest of us?

Nikki does great work. I will need to get her to redo mine sometime soon.

Cindi Amazed by grace said: Great new look! I love it.

Sarah Noah Bear said: LOVE the new look! I want one, too! I went to Nikki's blog, but couldn't find any info on getting a blog facelift.

What do we do?

Leslie Scarlett_333 said: Thanks for posting this, Amy. You are so sweet :)

Nikki

Comments Jenny said: Oh my gosh!!!!! I just ran to my dryer to see if I was that lucky.....Not!!! Love you babies! Titi

1/16/2008 7:05:00 AM

1/17/2008 8:31:00 AM

How to get YOUR new look

The loss of a referral

I've had a few people ask me how to contact Nikki to get their new look. Right under my kids picture at the top of this page (on the left side) there is a link to Blogs for a cause. If you click on that the information on what to do is right there at your fingertips! Have fun- she's amazing!

1/16/2008 1:51:00 PM

The Laundry's calling!!!

Yes, we do a LOT of laundry at our house... and sometimes when I am doing the laundry I find a 'surprise'.

No, I'm not talking about a tissue that was left in some one's pocket that is now all over an entire load of wash....

It has been years now... 4 to be exact, but I can still remember the features of her tiny face... her beautiful brown eyes, round No, I'm not talking about a skid mark left in some one's undies Guatemalan cheeks, and her little forehead that wrinkled up as 57

she squinted towards the camera. Her name was Maria De Los Angeles- and although I only knew her on pictures and paper, she will forever own a piece of my heart- and a moment of my lifetime where she filled my head with dreams and my soul with joy. She was our first adoption referral- the one we lost.

I know of many of you who will read this and have been through the same thing... one day you were 'promised' a child(ren) that you opened your heart to and loved instantlyonly to have that child, through some unfortunate circumstance, taken away. And the pain is so real it makes you feel like your entire world is going to fall apart... like you could not possibly go on.

"However, each one must live his life in the situation the Lord assigned when God called him." 1 Corinthians 7:17 I remember sitting on the couch after I got the phone call just staring at the wall... I felt so hopeless, so lost. All of my dreams, my plans, were gone and as I sat there I didn't even know how to begin to move on. I could not understand how God could let that happen... why He would give us such a gift that felt so right, only to take it away. I had done everything right... I followed the right steps, used a good agency, how could this happen? I didn't want to feel- I didn't ever want to open my heart again and allow anyone or anything to cause me that much pain again. I vowed to be DONE. My heart was off limited.

different ministries, but the same Lord." 1 Corinthians 12:4‐5 Holman CSB As I sit here typing I can hear those precious giggles coming from the other room... and then I hear her call my name "Mommy, Mommy come see what I did!" and I know without a double it was worth the pain and heartbreak. God's will was done... God was faithful.

Lord, thank you for holding us through our pain... thank you for renewing our hope even when our world feels like it is falling apart. I pray for my precious friend Sarah today Lord. Give her comfort and mend her broken heart. Give her your strength to go on. And Lord, thank you for my beautiful Aleigha Grace‐ my daughter who loves to wear pony tails in her hair and pick wild flowers... for had I not have experienced that horrible, painful loss I would never have been blessed by her life in mine. Thank for for always knowing what is best for us, even when we cannot possibly see.

Comments Kimmie said: We had a similar thing happen 3 years ago, the loss is still felt, but God has carried us to today and brought us 3 more since then through adoption.

He is good, though we don't always see the details of why such things happen on this side of heaven, still I know that I can trust Him.

Kimmie mama to 6 one homemade and 5 adopted

"Man does not see what the Lord sees, for man sees what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7 Holman CSB

Amazed by grace said: Thank you Amy. You continue to be an encouragement to me. I am so thankful for you.

Sarah

A funny thing happened though... as I vowed to build that wall around my heart to protect it, God began His work....

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit". Romans 15:13 NIV It certainly didn't happen overnight... I had to allow myself to go through the steps of grieving...and I had let God fill my heart with renewed hope. I had to trust God that even through the pain He would take care of me. I had to trust that His will be done.

"The thing you should want most is God's kingdom and doing what God wants. Then all these other things you need will be given to you". Matthew 6:33 NCV

Although the pain may never completely go away,and I may never have all of the answers... today I can look back and remember her beautiful little face with a smile and pray that God is holding her too.

"Now there are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are

1/17/2008 10:50:00 AM

Organization with 6 Kids When people hear that I have six kids- one of the main statements I always hear is "I don't know how you do it... I cannot possibly get everything done with the two I do have".

So, I decided to write a post about a few things we do to stay organized around our house- freeing up more time for family fun and living a life free of chaos. But before I start I have to give credit to my mom- she is the queen of organization and most of what I learned came from her. (Thanks mom!)

1. Always have your clothes laid out the evening before for the next morning. Actually, for the younger kids, I decide what they are wearing for the week on Sunday night. Then I have those things hanging to one side of their closets, paired together as a set so it's easy for them to find them. We even lay out socks, under ware and shoes to save time looking for the ones that 58

always seem to 'hide'.

2. Pack lunches the night before if they are packing the next day.

3. I make a list of what we are going to eat for dinner for the week- or sometimes 2 weeks in advance and always throw in a left over night.

4.My husband types up a calendar at the beginning of the month that has every one's schedule on it-games, work schedules for the older kids if available, and any other important things that might be going on that month. That calendar includes a seating chart for our vehicle to prevent fights of who sits where each morning. ;0) We keep a copy of this calendar in our home as well as our vehicle just in case I did not have time to check it before walking out the door and need to remind the kids of anything.

5. Laundry. Oh the never ending laundry. While I think it's important for kids to learn to do their own laundry we would have problems with people leaving their things in the dryer for days and no one else could use it. So, I do the laundry- daily, and we have a shelving system. Each child has their own shelf with their name on it and I wash and fold their clothes (although my husband and the kids do help out with this when asked) and their clothes are separated and put on their shelf.

Typically on Saturday they are asked to put their clothes awayor before if their shelf is getting too full. This system works great for us because I have found we do not have laundry laying all over the house, on floors, beds, etc. It is simply left on the their shelf with the door closed until they put it away.

6. Sorting socks and boxers and white t-shirts are always a hassle trying to figure out who's are who's. So, we use a laundry pen and each has a designated color.

7. Grocery shopping. I typically do a big shopping day once a month where we stock up. My husband often goes with me on this day because it is definitely 2 full cart fulls. This works best for us because we get paid only once a month. Then, about once a week we end up running to the store for a quick trip for milk, fruits and fresh veggies. (although we are going to have our first attempt at gardening this year which will be another post in itself).

8. Because we get paid once a month- we use the envelope system. We estimate monthly expenses for our bills each month and put that amount into a separate labeled envelope.

We have one for gas, one for groceries, clothing, etc. This helps me make sure we do not go over on one thing and not have enough for another.

9. Each child pitches in to help around the house. Even down to the smallest. Aleigha and Mya are great at helping empty the dishwasher, bringing in the mail and love to dump things into the compost.

10. We do daily devotions with the kids. With a large family it is so important to me that we stay close and that each child feels like they are being 'heard' and included. By sitting down for even 15-20 minutes each night, doing our devotions and sharing our prayer requests it often gives our kids time to open up and share things they might not have done as we rushed

around throughout the day. This time of the day has easily become the most precious to all of us.

If anyone has any other ideas or tips they would like to share about how they keep their family running smoothly I'd love to hear from them! Just leave a comment below. (Don't know how? Click on the comment link below this post, type in your message and if you do not have a google account you can click on anonymous and it will work!). THANKS so much!

Comments Sara said: I only have 2 kids, but since I work outside the home part‐time, I really have to organize myself. I found it helpful to divide the chores up throughout the week and do 1‐2 chores each day, rather than clean the whole house in one day, especially when the kids were real little. I also thought it helped create a checklist for Bryce once he was school‐age, of things he needed to do each day of the week...put books in bookbag for library, collect trash, make bed, make lunch, etc. It helped take the load off me and make him more responsible for his own things. He would bring his list to me at the end of the day to check. I am amazed at how you run things so smoothly Amy!!qozlt Anonymous said: I'm with Sarah. I've always told you to write a book. And thanks for the compliment(?) on my organizational skills. Remember you are "little Marcia". Love ya!

Mom Amazed by grace said: Oh this is so great! I've always said that you should write a book, and now I know I'm right!

Sarah

1/17/2008 11:58:00 AM

Forgetting something??

Ever have one of those days where you feel like you are forgetting something??

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Anonymous said: Even though you wrote this months ago, you have an AMAZING, God touched blog and I wouldn't want it any different!!! Ann Cox, Long Island, KS

Maybe you are!!!

Comments

Jman's momma said: uhh, I know this is from January but I gotta say ‐ I totally know where you are coming from. When you commented on mine yesterday, I was on cloud 9.

How silly!! :)

~anne

Amazed by grace said: Oh ‐ This is too funny! I looked at this before, and I thought it was a cast on her foot so she had to keep it out of the water! Now I see that it's a sock!!! hehe LOL Sarah

1/17/2008 12:44:00 PM

Amy said: You have great insight and I always enjoy reading what you have to say. Keep it coming.

Blog envy

Sara said: Hard to believe you have any envy, rather others look at you and your life and are simply amazed. You are such a strong Christian woman and able to touch so many lives and you have a great family. God bless you Amy!

**PITY PARTY ALERT**

Rhonda said: Amy, I missed reading your blog yesterday, and I am having withdrawals! I absolutely LOVE reading it! You are such an inspiration to me, and I love EVERYTHING about you and your family! I am so thankful to be YOUR friend!

Love ya, Rhonda

OK, I can't even believe I am putting this out there... but I have a confession to me-I have blog envy. What is blog envy you say? Well, allow me to explain.

A little over a year ago I didn't even know what a blog was... and now here I am at my first attempt to write one and I am feeling a bit down. You see, when I start reading other peoples blogs and seeing all of the cool things they are doing and writing about it makes me turn green with envy. I starting thinking to myself that I wished I was that funny... that I could pray like that... I wish my house looked like that, was clean like that... I wished I cooked healthy food like that for my family, that I could write like that, look like that, have 12 kids like that, be witty like that, go on a vacation like that, do things with my kids like that... and the list goes on and on. But the truth is- this is who I am and it's all I got. Sure there is always a chance that I might improve with time... or maybe not.

Phyllis said: Amy ‐ Your blog is GREAT!! You're on my favorites both at work and at home. When I feel like I'm overwhelmed with my one kid I think of you with your 6 and wonder how you do it. You are amazing and an inspiration. I just checked and last time I blogged was Nov 7, so you are doing WAY better than me. Keep blogging just as you are because I am enjoying every word :)

Phyllis (Kristen's blessed mom) Noah Bear said: Amy, you know I'm absolutely dead jealous of your blog. I.LOVE.IT.!! I think you're funny and passionate ‐ so incredibly interesting. I check your blog several times a day and wish I could just morph into you because I think you rock!

Your blog is awesome!

Leslie

I remind myself that being envious or jealous is a sin and that is exactly what I am doing. "Abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul" 1 Peter 2:11 So, I need to focus on being thankful for who I am, how I am, and even for how I blog. This is me- take it or leave it. You can choose to do 2 things now... put me into your favorites and leave me a comment below to help build my self-esteem (so I know people are actually reading) or click the x at the top right hand of this page and surf someone else's blog. Thanks for visiting!

Kimmie said: Oh, that what makes the world go round (well, besides God ;‐) You are the Amy God is forming, tomorrow your shape may be different, depending on how the Potter is transforming you and what stage you are in.

I think you are perfect the way you are...if all our blogs were the same, well, lets not imagine that, as it wouldn't be good at all.

Three cheers for you and your lovely blog...happy blogging.

Remember the blog is always a dim picture of the real life and person(s)...you get to experience the bits ‐but we have to live with us ;‐)

Kimmie

Comments Anonymous said: Even though you wrote this months ago, you have an AMAZING, God touched blog and I wouldn't want it any different!!! Ann Cox, Long Island, KS Anonymous said: Even though you wrote this months ago, you have an AMAZING, God touched blog and I wouldn't want it any different!!! Ann Cox, Long Island, KS

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mama to 6 one homemade and 5 adopted Anonymous said: I check your blog several times a day.

REALLY! I love your posts and seeing pictures of your beautiful family.

Thanks for the great advice on organization. Boy, I needed that before the next kid comes home. :0)

Blessings, Michelle Riggs Our Real Life said: OK This is so funny. After reading your post on organization today and then your back post on "what I could do if I didn't have so many kids" LOL I found myself a little envious of you (in a good christian way of course :) So see I guess we all want to be something we aren't. We are too busy looking at our faults to be happy with out blessings! Hugs Cindi Amazed by grace said: I not only already have you in my favorites, but you have a spot on my tool bar! No kidding. Now that better give you a boost! :) I always love your insights ‐ keep up the good work!

Sarah Anonymous said: I love you my friend and I love your blog...I check it two or three times a day and you always keep my interest. I think you do a great job for a newbie (no one could tell if you didn't admit it!!!) Miss you! DebbieT

Culprit #1 "Wasn't me TRAVIS" Age:17 known for playing rough with his younger siblings, loves football and girls.

1/17/2008 7:11:00 PM

Solving the mystery...

Who Dun it?

OK, I need your help. When I walked into our office today right there in the middle of the floor was one of my favorite pottery pieces from Guatemala broken into 2 pieces. Now there are not a lot of possessions in my house that are off limits because you know, we have 6 kids and all, so our house is pretty kid friendly. But everyone is our household knows that the things I brought home from Guatemala I hold dearly in my heart. Not because they are expensive or worth a lot of money- but you know, just for sentimental reasons. So yep- there it was in the middle of the floor broken in two. Here is where YOU come in. I need your help by voting on who you think 'dun it'. You see, in our house there are a lot of people who apparently go by the same name "wasn't me". So let's get going and cast your vote.

Was it...

Culprit #2 "Wasn't me KEEGAN" Age:15 known for his lack of driving skills also loves football and is too shy for girls.

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Culprit #3 "Wasn't me ADDISYN" Age:12 known for her fierce soccer kick but compassionate heart, loves playing with her younger sisters and knitting.

Culprit #5 "Wasn't me MYA" Age:5 Known for her adorable dimples, curly hair and spunkiness.

Loves life and making people laugh.

Culprit #4 "Wasn't me KALLAN" Age:11 Known for his sweet disposition and knowing how to use it.

Loves to eat Mexican food and ride the go-cart.

Culprit #6 "Wasn't me ALEIGHA"Age:4Known for her big eyes and sneaky ways,Loves reading books and getting into things she is not supposed to.

OK- now go to my comments -cast your votes and stayed tuned for 'who dun it'.

Comments Paytie said: I say Culprit #6. =] I say so b.c of the "And getting into things she is not supposed

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to." =] Love, Paytie♥ Anonymous said: It was definitely Addisyn. She is hoping that you will decide that you can't live without it. She hopes that you will decide to go back to Guatemala and get another one.

Wouldn't another mission trip be fun? Addie wants to go too!

Michelle Riggs Jenny said: Okay...we don't think it was Travis or Keegan rough housing...because they would've love to tell on each other!

Addisyn would have tried to fix it and put it back. Kallan would have tried to hide it! Our vote is for Mya and Aleigha...oops we mean "Wasn't Me Mya" and "Wasn't Me Aleigha" aka Culprit #5 and #6. The Bland's Sorry...Titi still loves you though!!!!!

Anonymous said: I'll go with Culprit #2. No one else said him.

(Sorry Keegan) Maybe he can't steer his legs any better than the car.

Anonymous said: I think it was anyone but Culprit # 3 b/c Addisyn is totally innocent! ☺ Rhonda said: Could there possibly be a culprit #7? Where was Todd? HaHa...I can't possibly pick from any of these cute faces!

Anonymous said: hmmm, this is tricky...I have wild boys in my house but I also have a very ornery girl in my house....I'm thinking culprits #5 & #6, aided by culprit #4. Can't wait to hear the mystery's solved! DebbieT (it wasn't your big vase you carried home in your duffel bag, was it??)

Phyllis said: As the mom of a 4‐year old, I have to vote for culprit #6.

Phyllis

Ok- it's official- I am cured of my blog envy. You all are too sweet to me and (chest puffed out) I am feeling LOVED! If you can't tell- I now have a BIG HEAD too. (that is supposed to be a picture of me with a 'big head'). LOL It's not perfect but hey, remember I am technically challenged after all. Anyway- really, thank you all. I am so blessed to have so many awesome friends!

1/18/2008 3:48:00 PM

TOO CUTE!!!

OK- since I just scared you all with my 'big head' picture I thought I'd treat you to a couple of new pictures I took of Aleigha and Mya today. Aren't they just the cutest??

Noah Bear said: What about the dog? I'm quite positive that one of her stinky smellies could've blasted it off the shelf ‐ causing it to shatter to pieces.

Scarlett_333 said: Hmm.... I think I will go with Culprit #4...

Our Real Life said: I say it is five and six together with the help of culprit #1. Really all he did was get them excited then sat back and watched it all play out.

Or at least that would be what happened here.

1/18/2008 2:54:00 PM

Me with BIG HEAD

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1/19/2008 12:27:00 PM

The Yellow Light A man was being tailgated by a stressed out woman on a busy boulevard. Suddenly, the light turned yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection. The tailgating woman was furious and honked her horn, screaming in frustration as she missed her chance to get through the intersection, dropping her cell phone and makeup. As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up. He took her to the police station where she was searched, finger printed, photographed, and placed in a holding cell. After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door. She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects. He said, "I'm very sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you, and cussing a blue streak at him. I noticed the 'What Would Jesus Do' bumper sticker, the 'Choose Life' License plate holder, the 'Follow Me to Sunday-School' bumper Sticker, And the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk, Naturally....I assumed you had stolen the car."

When I first read this I thought to myself "Good for you officer, how dare she give Christians a bad name like that!" Then, I had to stop for a second and let myself soak in the 'guilt' and admit that there have been times in my life when I have acted just like this stressed out lady on the busy boulevard of life. There have been times where I have called myself a Christian and then turned around and acted like anything but. There are times when I have been so caught up in trying to accomplish what "I" thought was necessary and so wrapped up in 'me' and I failed to yield and look around me at what was really important.

Comments Anonymous said: Yes they are just "too cute". But all six are "too cute". I'm a prejudiced voter though. Guess who?

Lord, please help this story be a reminder to me that everything that I do and say is a reflection on you because I am a Christian.

Help me to live my life full of your Spirit's self‐control. I ask that you to control the areas of my life and help me surrender my ways that are harmful to you and to others... because only then can I live in peace and contentment. "For this reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge, and to knowledge, self control. " 2 Peter 1:5‐6

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"It may have been one of my favorite Indian/Guatemalan pieces, but s/he is one of my favorite Indian/Guatemalan treasures". I LOVE THAT!!

Priceless pictures, by the way. :‐)

Leslie

1/19/2008 12:49:00 PM

Verdict In Thanks to all of you who casted your votes on "Who Dun It".

The verdict is in- mystery solved.

Anonymous said: I really thought it was Aleigha all along. I'm sure you could tell by those big eyes looking at you. I bet any of the other "culprits" would have taken the blame for her though.

(Maybe not Mya). Just give her a big hug. Its replacable, she's not.

It was Culprit #6 with the basketball In the office.

1/19/2008 4:05:00 PM

One of those days....

It may have been one of my favorite pieces of Guatemalan pottery but she is one of my favorite Guatemalan treasures.

(Messy pig tails and all) How could I get mad? Anyway- isn't that what Elmer's glue is for?

Lord, thank you for the reminder that 'the most important things in life are not things'. We know that material possessions are replaceable, but our relationships with our children are priceless. I pray my children learn to be compassionate, forgiving people who live for things not of material worth but for eternal value.

"Forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other..."

Colossians 3:13 RSV Comments Anonymous said: Amy, she is by far the cutest culprit I've ever seen!! And DEFINITELY a TREASURE! DebbieT Amazed by grace said: Oh I absolutely love this picture! She does look very remorseful. How can you resist those big brown eyes!?!

Great post!

Sarah Noah Bear said: What a great post! I love the message you wrote about. Plus, I'm now kinda hoping one of my kids breaks one of my favorite India/Guatemala pieces so that I can write,

Today was one of those days... we all have them. It was time to leave for Kallan's basketball game so trying to foresee any problems I tell everyone to go potty before we leave. Mya and Aleigha run into the bathroom together (see I was not kidding when I told you they do everything together) and Aleigha apparently got there first. So Mya was trying to patiently wait her turn and while doing so decided to entertain herself by practicing her new favorite trick of spinning around in circles like a ballerina. Now there is a reason why Ballerina's wear slippers... and Mya, well Mya had on Crocs. So she attempt to spin herself in a circle and ends up crashing face first against the bathtub. Poor baby. She is so brave. So we get her fixed up and head out the door to Kal's game that is 40 minutes away.

Once there we enter the building I can of course feel everyone is staring at me like I am a big, bad abusive parent. Fun feeling.

We head forth to the court where Kallan plays and no one else from his team is there. I ask the guy in charge and he tells me there was a schedule change last Thursday and apparently everyone else on the team got the call but us. Great. Outside again, load kids back into the car and drive another 40 minutes 65

home. I think I am going to change into my pajama's, wrap my kids in a plastic bubble and stay home for the rest of the day.

Comments Jenny said: My poor princess....you still are soooo beautiful!

Poor Mommy...I didn't know the part about the game being changed!!!! Bummer!

1/20/2008 2:36:00 PM

Enough to make a difference I asked God, "How much time do I have before I die?" He replied, "Enough to make a difference....." Lord, if you revealed everything about our future we could neither stand it or understand it. None of us know how long we have to live so I ask that you help me make the best use of the time and energy you have given to me. I choose to spend my days in work that honors you. Forgive me for the times when I have wasted moments serving myself that should have been used in serving you. Our purpose is not to cross off lists, but to choose things in life that counts toward making a difference in your kingdom.

Help us keep our eyes focused on you and you only‐ for nothing else really matters. "Be very careful, then, how you live‐not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. "Ephesians 5:15‐16

1/21/2008 10:33:00 AM

SISTERS When we first brought home Aleigha from Guatemala and then 2 years later Mya, my kids were beyond thrilled. I often thought that the excitement would wear off and soon I would begin to hear them yelling "get them out of my room!" or "Mom, they are getting into my things". But honestly even after all this time that has NOT been the case. Today I walked into the girls room to find this: Addisyn talking to them about how beautiful and special they are and putting braids in their hair. Despite the age difference these sisters are as close as ever and I thank God that He builds these close relationships and bonds them together in such a beautiful way. I thank God for my sisters and I couldn't be happier to see that my girls will share that special bonds as well.

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1/21/2008 7:37:00 PM

Gratitude Day

Sisters of the Heart I know you are my sister thought we do not look the same.

We may have been sent to different lands but we both from heaven came.

We knew we were meant to be sisters, cause we are the best of friends...

We're so glad we found our family A circle of love that never ends.

We have such fun together best friends we'll always be...

Because I belong to you‐ and you belong to me.

Comments Amazed by grace said: How precious! I always wished I had a sister. This is so great!

Sarah Creme Brule said: Lovely Amy! I don't get the time to post a comment very often but I sure love reading your blog. Thanks!

Tracy Jenny said: I love sisters!!!!!!!

Anonymous said: just precious, Amy. You have such sweet girls and that Addie is just a gem! Tell her I said hey! DebbieT Phyllis said: I love it!!! They are all so sweet :)

Phyllis & Kristen Our Real Life said: That is so sweet. What a great big sis.

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them, pray with them, wrestle with them, and stops to share your beauty in this world with them. Thank you for his compassionate heart for the children who do not have a father of their own and for his willingness to change that. Thank you God that he loves you above all else and that he puts you in the center of our lives. "Love each other as I have loved you". John 15:12 Comments Jenny said: Oh....that almost even made me like Todd! Ha! Favorite in‐laws said: That's why he is also "one of our favorite sons‐in‐law."

Mom and Dad

1/22/2008 11:41:00 AM

(almost) FRESH SALSA!!!

My kids love chips and Salsa. They would live on it if I would let them. But we don't like that nasty, chunky Salsa that comes in a jar. We like the fresh , smooth kind. So, I found the easiest, most incredible Salsa in this world and you, my loyal blogger buddies, get to know our secret family recipe for (almost) fresh Salsa. Try it- you will be in love!

Get out your blender (yes blender) Open one 28 oz can of whole tomatoes (we use the Walmart brand for .97 cents cause I am cheap and we like it) and dump it in the blender.

Next, cut up one whole onion and dump it in.

Then add approximate 1/2 to 1 cup of fresh Cilantro (depending on how much you like) Throw in some Jalapeno peppers. (I use the pickled Jalapeno peppers in a can- like the ones you eat on Nachos). I put about 5 slices in. If you like it hot then add more.

Finally toss in about 1 tablespoon of salt and then blend. It will make a good amount and can be stored in your frig for a couple of weeks- although ours never last that long. :0) Enjoy!

Comments Noah Bear said: Oooh, I have to admit. I LOVE your salsa! I've been dying to make it, but I haven't because I know that I'll last approximately 5 minutes before I rip into the tortilla chips and eat the whole bag.

I'll just have to have it at your house. :‐)

Leslie

Lord, today I thank you for this amazing man you sent my way.

I am so blessed to share my life with him. Thank you for the crazy things he does that makes me shake my head, yet melts my heart. Thank you for the way he chooses to love me unconditionally for I know that true love is a choice. I am not perfect, I have done nothing to deserve this man, yet he remains by my side supporting me in all I do. Thank you for the way he is patient and loving to our kids, yet also disciplines them so that they can learn right from wrong. Thank you for this man who gives freely of his time to coach his kids, read to 68

1/22/2008 12:23:00 PM

Twins As we are leaving the store and heading out to the parking lot we pass this sweet, older lady. (insert loud shrilly voice)"OHHHHHHHHH look at those BEAUTIFUL little girls‐ are they TWINS?" she asks.

Me: "No, they are just sisters."

Lady in the parking lot: "Oh my, well they sure could pass for twins!"

We begin walking away...

Mya: " Mom, why does everyone always think we are twins?

We don't even have the same head!"

Comments Angel said: Hee hee hee hee hee hee.... she is great. Angel Sarah said: Thank you Mya! I needed a good laugh. That was too funny!

Sarah

1/23/2008 11:30:00 AM

Discovering God's Will In the Upper Room daily devotional guide they had an article on Discovering God’s Will for your life. This is something that I am constantly concerned with and apparently so are many others because it stated that in ‘various surveys, adults consistently identify with this one spiritual question among their top three" So, this had me searching my own heart and where I am in God's will for my life.

The Upper Room listed these basic principals on finding God's will which I found to be very helpful.

1. Bible ( examples of guidance) 2. Prayer (asking for guidance from God) 3. Seeking those in our community of faith (asking for council from other Christians) Now I agree that these things are extremely important in our daily walk with Christ and seeking His will- but there are a few other things I personally would add to that list: 4. Willingness. I think we have to offer our selves to God as well. You know, be willing- no matter how scary that is. No matter how high the stake. We can read the bible from beginning to end, pray and fast, and ask every person in church for advice- but still be too afraid to take the risk. I believe that if God lays a burden on our hearts that is Him calling us to do something. MOVE. OBEY. If we don’t, He will continue to draw us back to that specific task over and over again and the

burden will become heavier until we accomplish it. And if we choose to run from God, from this burden he laid on our heart, we will always find ourselves going back to it because He will not allow it to go away.

5. Surrender. Surrendering is not always easy because when we surrender it means we give up control. Many of us are afraid we will loose ourselves if we give up control. Surrender to all that we have known- letting go of the world. The bible tells us we are NOT to conform to the pattern of this world. The dictionary defines conform as "to be in agreement or accord."

Not conforming to the world is not easy because we are raised in the world and have to live here daily. There is so much pressure from family, friends, co workers, media, etc, to live life how others see as 'good and popular'. In other words- to be successful in materialistic ways.

But honestly after searching and contemplating God’s will- one thing kept coming back to my mind. I don’t think God wanted it to be this hard for us.. .I don’t think He wanted us scurrying around like little mice lost in our direction… should we turn here, should we turn there... Sure God cares about what career we choose… sure he cares who we marry, where we go to school, and even what we eat. But THE MOST important thing is that in those choices He allows us to make- is that we stop asking the questions and just wholeheartedly seek to BE LIKE JESUS. If you are a businessman, are you conducting your business in an ethical way… are you reaching out to others or is it ( 'it' meaning your life) all about you getting richer, growing your bank account? If you choose to marry Sam or Dave are you loving them the way Jesus does? Serving them the way Jesus would... or are you angry and hateful because they are not serving YOU? If you chose to have one child- or ten… are you raising them like Jesus would? Are you taking them to church, praying with them, growing them into little Christs? Or are you showing them by your actions that being popular is important, having straight A’s means more to you than participating in the youth at the church. Are you willing to drive them to Disney land- but not to serve at the local soup kitchen? Are you trying to ‘buy’ their happiness with video games and name brand clothing. Or are you showing them/teaching them, that in serving others is where true happiness lies? ( And I’m going to go ahead and admit right here and now that I am guilty of it all). But I truly believe that if you put Jesus in the center of your life- and truly strive to BE LIKE HIM in all that you do-all of the other parts will just ‘fall into place’ without you having to spend so much time searching for the answers… God’s will for your life will just happen when you seek to be more like Him. Maybe as you are reading this you feel like that is exactly where you are- right in the core of God’s will. If so, I congratulate you . There is no greater place to be. Or maybe you are reading this feeling like you’ve already blown it- you are already half way down the wrong road and can’t find your 69

way back. Perhaps God spoke something and you turned and ran… perhaps you feel your whole life is a mess. There is good news because if you resolve that from today on you will surrender to God’s ways… to act, think, behave as He wouldGod will straighten your paths bringing you back to the center of His will. And because of his grace God can even change your mistakes around to be part of His purpose for you. I am thankful for such a God- a God who can use me even when I mess up… a God who loves me regardless of the mistakes I have made… and that is exactly why, more than anything else in this world, I want to be like my God. Comments Our Real Life said: Fantastic and uplifting post! Life would be so simple if we would all learn to be more like Jesus.

1/24/2008 9:46:00 AM

Hospitality

"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:2As Aleigha and Mya sat having a tea party in my living room with their 'friends,' I watched in awe how they treated each guest like royalty-It did not matter if they were a rat, a tiger, or a bear. They showed no favoritism towards those who had pink hair, or darker skin. It didn't matter if their 'coats' were old and worn or lush and new. They were all treated with the same hospitality... they were all welcomed, they were all served. Lord, I wonder how many times I have done the exact 70

opposite‐ given favor to those who's coats were new over those who's coats were worn. I wonder how many times I have missed out on the chance to 'entertain an angel' because of my own ignorance? God I ask that you give me a heart like yours... that you give me the willingness to open my heart and home with Christian love, friendship and understanding to those who have spiritual, emotional, or physical needs. Help me to remember that everything I have really belongs to you and I am to share those blessings with those you bring into my life without judging. For when I do, you will bless me in more ways than I can imagine. Don't ever look down on someone else... unless you are helping them up.

Comments Kimmie said: Hi Amy

How poignant this post is...

Don't ever look down on someone else... unless you are helping them up.

I love this how deep and how true!

Kimmie mama to 6 one homemade and 5 adopted

1/24/2008 1:06:00 PM

Large Families= Good marriages??

I read this awesome post on here: http://themourofamily.blogspot.com/ and she said it would be OK to share it with you guys. Go Laura- I think big families are great too!

I was just thinking today about the statistic that the divorce rate is lower for large families and what would make this true.

You would think with the stress of more kids, added expenses, etc. that larger families would have a higher divorce rate.

However, the opposite is true! I *think* it is because the more kids you have the less time you have to argue!! Or, maybe it is because you are too tired to argue! ;) In all seriousness though, I do think it has something to do with the fact that the more kids you have, the more you are required to serve and the less you think of yourself--not by nature, but out of necessity. This is true to a certain extent in any family with kids. However, with every added child, I feel stretched even MORE to serve.

Honestly, when Cameron and I were first married, I was very selfish, and as a result, we argued a lot more. I demanded my "rights". We were both in grad school and very busy. There was more competition, esp. over household duties. Now, with

seven little ones, we both have to pitch in and work ALL OF THE TIME. There is no slacking for either of us. Sleeping in? Forget about it! God has grown me in this area greatly! I was not a servant by nature when we got married. I wanted to be served.

Having children has forced me to serve. Having many children with a husband in residency--who was rarely home and having very little money--forced me to learn to be content. I definitely didn't do it perfectly! There were times that I just wanted a break, or a new outfit!, but Cameron was on-call every 2nd or 3rd night. OR, he was on nights for a solid month! Or, we ran out of money and still had 2 weeks to go until payday. We just had to make do! Most months my perspective was "just make it to the end of this month". Cameron was just telling me today that he filled up his gas tank in his car and how good that felt!

He said that in 4 years of medical school and then 4 years of residency, he never filled up his gas tank--because he didn't know if he could--if the money would be there! Anyways, God used having many little ones, little help and little money to change me. With each new baby, I learned to die to myself MORE. Before having these little ones my perspective was that I didn't want to die to myself. I thought that it would hurt too much to "lose" myself, lose my identity, my freedom. In reality, I have found myself (I am tearing up even as I write these words!) It is true! I have such joy, so much freedom. I can't explain it. It does hurt to die to oneself, but it is worth it! I used to think that serving equaled degradation. Now I know that serving equals absolute freedom and joy! The more I have been required to serve, the more joy I have! It is the TOTAL opposite of what the world tells you! I feel like I believed a lie my whole life. I now have learned the secret to my happiness!I think that you HAVE to have a good marriage to have a lot of kids. Can you imagine the absolute chaos in a home with many children where the mom and dad didn't get along? Cameron and I have to be united--in our vision for our family, in our goals, and our purpose. This is what makes having a large family possible. Also, without a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, everything would fall apart! We have to give each other grace, we have to forgive, we have to depend on Christ to parent these children and love each other. I think this is true in any marriage, in any family, but in large families esp., where the demands are so high. We do NOT have a perfect marriagewe both fail, but we have less of those times now with lots of kids because there just isn't time to demand our own rights.The more children a family has, the more commitment is demanded to grow and raise that family. It is very difficult to have outside interests and pursuits when there are so many little ones demanding attention. That may seem depressing to some, but I think of it in a different way: All of my hobbies are just that--hobbies. These precious little ones are eternal souls that will one day worship God around his throne. They are an eternal investment. My hobbies are a way to pass the time, my children aren't.Lastly, having a large family is usually a result of the parents viewing children as a blessing and not a burden.

This perspective makes a HUGE difference! My children are not an "intrusion" on my life--they are my life--they are the "work" 71

God has given Cameron and I to do. They are a gift. I have never heard an older person ever complain that they had "too many children". BUT, I have often heard people tell me that they wished they had had more. You will NEVER regret the decision to have another baby--ever. Sure it will be hard, but one look at that precious little face and it will all be worth it!

Marriage does take so much work and finding the time to make it a priority is difficult in a large family where the demands are high! Cameron and I are in a period of time right now where we really can't leave Jerome and Ruth with anyone else. We are in the critical "attachment" phase with our adopted children and a date is really out of the question. We are both looking forward to when we can go out alone together because we know that if this family is going to work we have to be united. In Christ, Laura

meaningful people have during their lives. I often tease my boys when they are fighting that one day when they grow up they will drive hundreds of miles at Christmas so see each other and cherish every moment of it. I know I do exactly that.

Lord, I thank you for the special relationship you give to siblings. I thank you for the bond that is there even when they choose to ignore it. I pray that you help these boys to grown into strong Godly men‐ with their eyes focused on you. I ask you to guide their feet on the right path and direct them in all your ways. Show each of them the purpose you have planned for them. Teach them to love each other the way you love us. Show them that it is not important to 'reach for the stars' but to reach FOR YOU. Bring them to a place where your dreams are their dreams. You are all that I pray them to be.

"Be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble." 1 Peter 3:8

1/25/2008 9:33:00 AM

Brothers

1/28/2008 7:57:00 AM

Today??

4-year old Aleigha to her mom: "Mommy, I keep forgetting when my birthday is... can it please be TODAY?" Comments Our Real Life said: That is so sweet. She needs a cupcake.

1/28/2008 8:00:00 AM

Attitude I saw this on another blog and it was too cute not to share!

Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero. ~Marc Brown Growing up I was surrounded by 3 older sisters. I learned all about make-up and doing my hair. I learned about doing cheers and playing Barbies with the best of 'em. So finding myself raising these 3 'little men', full of energy and spunk, has been to say the least- interesting. There are days when I sit back and just watch in wonder at how one minute they can fight like professional wrestlers and the next minute laugh together over a PlayStation game. One minute they have each other in a head lock, the next minute they are tossing the football back and forth. I am in awe of the relationship between these boys- the joys and the complexities. I want so much for these boys to connect in a meaningful way because relationships between siblings are among the longest and most

AttitudeAuthor unknown There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and noticed she had only three hairs on her head. “Well,” she said, “I think I’ll braid my hair today!”So she did and she had a wonderful day.The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.“H‐M‐M,” she said, “I think I’ll part my hair down the middle today!”So she did and she had a grand day.The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head.“Well,” she said, “today I’m going to wear my hair in a pony tail.”So she did and she had a fun, fun day.The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn’t a single hair on her head.“YEA!” she exclaimed, “I don’t have to fix my hair today!”Attitude is everything.Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.Live simply, 72

Jenny said: AMEN....AMEN...AMEN...AMEN...AMEN..THANK YOU AMY FOR BEING MY INSPIRATION!

love generously, care deeply, speak kindly…..Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.

1/29/2008 7:47:00 AM 1/28/2008 2:20:00 PM

Precious blessings

My precious, gorgeous, amazing new little nephew will be coming HOME to his FOREVER FAMILY on February 7th. "This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 Today I am praising God and thanking Him for bringing this perfect little boy in our lives. In a world full of hurting people it is so awesome to see how God's loving hands still swoop in, answer our prayers, and make everything fall into place. As I write this I am so overcome with emotion-down on my knees in praise and gratitude for the miracle of adoption. I have experienced it first hand and yet always I am in awe.... I lift a heart of thanksgiving to you God in pure devotion and adoration. "For great is the Lord and most worth of praise". Psalm 96:4 Thank you for this privilege of being an aunt to this perfect little boy... thank you for the gift of adoption and for how you beautifully orchestrate each and every family. "That their hearts may be encouraged as they are knit together in love..." Colossians 2:2 Thank you for my sister and her family and for their hearts and desire to not only know your word- but to live it. "Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and where ever you send us we will go" Joshua 1:16 Thank you Lord, Thank you.

Comments Gram said: We too are praising God for this new little grandson.

May we all have the love and caring for this little boy to make his earthly life so happy for the rest of his days.

Mom and Dad

Irreplaceable Whether we like it or not, we are living in a ‘replaceable’ worldand whether we admit it or not- we are all responsible for this.

We like our things, we like them new, we like them faster, stronger, better then the one before. We like things to look good and be easy… and if they are not- we simple replace them with ones that are. Ahhhhh, life in America.

Growing up I remember a few times where one our small appliances would stop working. I recall one time in particular that our toaster would not pop up. So, my mom packed up the toaster and I, and off we went to the next town over to where a little old man had a ‘repair shop’ in his garage off the side of his house. We would drop our toaster off and pick it up a few days later- and it worked as good as new. Now a days, that little old man would starve- and his business would go under.

Today, if our toaster breaks we dump it in the garbage and we are off to Walmart to buy another.

But the sad thing is- not only small appliances are replaceable in our world now a days… we are too. Divorce rate is at an all time high- in our society if someone no longer meets our needs they are simply replaced … replaced for someone younger, someone better looking, someone better suited to fit our ‘needs’. And what about our jobs? We can easily be replaced by someone else in the work force. People spend their entire lives working, pouring their heart and soul into a company to one day find themselves laid off, or replaced.

I often wonder if that is why down deep people feel threaten.

Why we are so afraid to let people see inside- see the real us.

We are afraid to show who we really are. We plaster a smile on our face and pretend that everything is perfect in our lives… when down deep we are hurting. We long for others to approve of us… and we are afraid that if they really see us- see our flaws-that we will be replaced. We are people pleasers more than God pleasers. We believe that if we ‘look’ like we have it all together than people won’t see the damaged goods… the ones that tell us we are not enough and need to be ‘replaced'. We know that once others see the real us- the imperfect us… they won’t see us as important. Knowing this makes it hard for us to believe that God doesn’t see us as that way too. But in fact, the exact opposite is true. God thinks you’re worth dying for.

God specifically designed each one of us for a purpose- an irreplaceable purpose. While the world tells us ‘someone else 73

can do it’ our creator tells us differently. Flaws and all, we are irreplaceable to Him.(kind of like that toaster we had when I was growing up- with God we are as good as new). If God were to line all of us up side by side, there would not be another one just like you. We have been chosen by him for a particular purpose- all we have to do is say yes God- I’ll do it! I’m willing!

Through obedience I will accomplish the purpose you have chosen for me- and me alone. God does not care if there is someone younger, faster, more qualified for the job. God chose you and now you must honor him by submitting your life to Him. Whether He chose you to raise children, be a missionary, or drive a bus -you must not argue with the blueprints of your life but instead serve Him gratefully. So don’t fall for the world’s view- hold your heard up high and serve the Lord like only you can do.To God you are irreplaceable- and that is all that really matters. .

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you”.

John 15:16

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To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Happiness is not a matter of good fortune or worldly possessions. It's a mental attitude. It comes from appreciating what we have, instead of being miserable about what we don't have. It's so simple‐ yet so hard for the human mind to comprehend. * * * * * * * * * * * Comments Sarah said: I love this picture! They are so sweet.

Comments Jennifer said: So glad I stumbled across your blog!!! I have spent and hour or more reading... and you have brought such a smile to my face!

By the way... if I had a dime for every time someone asks if my girls are "twins"... we could afford to adopt for the 5th time! :)

Gram said: You and your sisters are all irreplacable to us and we thank God he made you all such wonderful young women.

We are so proud of all of you. (And the toaster only cost a couple of dollars to fix.) Wasn't that neat? Wish I still had it.

Mom Sara said: What a wonderful reminder of God's perfect plan for our lives...a reminder to live up to our full potential in all areas God has chosen us for. Also not to worry so much how others see us, but what does God think. I love your blog Amy! Noah Bear said: Super post, Amy. Love your blog!

Leslie

2/1/2008 12:13:00 PM

Still waiting...

Our Real Life said: Great Post Our Real Life said: Great Post!

1/30/2008 8:16:00 AM

Happiness

I've already written one post on waiting...and the fact that that one word annoys me- drives me to the point of insanity- tells 74

me I have a problem here... When something in my life lays unsettled then I know it is best to 'lay' it at the feet of Jesus. So today, as my heart is screaming HURRY UP... and I am so tempted to grap for instant gratification, I am choosing to seek the Lord- the one who created me, knows me, see's my future, planned my future and WAIT for His plan to unfold.

"My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him." Psalm 62:5 Comments Anonymous said: I'll keep praying for you, Amy‐‐that God will give you peace in this time of waiting. He is using it for your good even though it's so difficult, and He will work his perfect plan for all of you in His time. " He has made everything beautiful in its time." Ecc. 3:11 Hugs to you!

Kim Our Real Life said: I am so sorry you still are waiting.

Sometimes is seems so unfair but there is hope in God that he can see past the bend in the road and knows what is going to happen and when.

I am praying for you. Waiting is my biggest issue too. It is so hard. God is saying to you, "Amy I know the plans I have for you and E, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you both great hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11.

Hold one a little longer.

Sarah said: I'm praying for you as you wait for God's perfect plan. . . It just dawned on me that the waiting is also part of his perfect plan! So, I'm also praying that God will encourage and comfort you as you trust in Him. Michelle Riggs said: I am sorry that the wait is so hard. I will keep praying that God comforts you and that "E" will be yours soon.

2/1/2008 12:56:00 PM

A better Life Too much truth not to pass along...

A Better Life "I want a better life." That has become the slogan of our society today. Everywhere we look there are a thousand suggestions on how to live a better life. There are pills, exercises, and diet books to help us lose weight so we can live a better life. There are lotions, treatments, and surgeries to help us look better so we can live a better life. There are cell phones, computers, and televisions to keep us connected and entertained so we can live a better life. There are cars, clothes, and fancy homes to keep us feeling wealthy so we can live a better life. There are schools, classes, and colleges to get our

kids ready to live an even better life than we do. There are also jobs, cash, and credit cards to keep us spending for all of these things so that we can one day, hopefully, have that better life we dream about. I want a better life too, but I don’t think that any of these things will help me to get it. I have tried a lot of them over the years and while they may make you feel better for a moment they don’t bring you the lasting happiness you want. I have found for myself that the only way to have a better life is to live a better life, and only way to give your children a better life is to show them how to live a better life as well. How do you live a better life? You start by living more for your soul and less for your wallet. You spend more time hugging and less time buying. You turn off the television and take a walk with your children. You smile more and worry less.

You spend more time with your loved ones and less time at the office. You laugh longer and more often. You look in your heart more and in the mirror less. You make your first job spreading joy rather than earning money. You realize just how much God loves you and you spend your days sharing that love with everyone you meet. And you always remember that your life is a gift from God and how you live it is your gift back. ~ Joseph J. Mazzella ~ Comments kim p said: Yes! A better life can only come from knowing and serving Jesus in everthing we do. Thanks for the encouragement!

2/4/2008 11:06:00 AM

Homemade Granola Bars My kids love granola bars- but the ones you buy at the store come in a box of 6 and they are gone in a minute at our house.

So, I found this recipe and they loved them! It's a lot cheaper and they make a whole pan full.

2 1/2 c. rice krispies 2. c. oatmeal 1/2 c. raisins 1/2 c. sunflower seeds without shells 1/2 c. brown sugar, packed 1/2 c. corn syrup 1/2 c. peanut butter 1 tsp. vanilla 1/2 c. choc. chips Combine in a lg. bowl, cereal, oats, raisins, and sunflower seeds. Combine in a saucepan, brown sugar and corn syrup, bring to a boil stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Stin in peanut butter and vanilla, until smooth. Pour over cereal mixture and mix well. Add chocolate chips and mix. Press into ungreased 9X13 in. baking dish. Cool. Enjoy!

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1:31

2/4/2008 1:34:00 PM

The gift of life

Lord, help me to celebrate life to the fullest. Let me really see your creation, your beauty, in everything. Let the greatest thrills in my life be from discovering you in everything around me. Let me not waste a single day on regret or things I cannot change.

Help me to focus on the gifts you have given to me‐ my life, your truth, my faith, your peace, my salvation and your will.

2/5/2008 9:13:00 AM

Application to Date my Daughters A friend of mine (Thanks Debbie!!) passed this onto me and I thought it was too funny!!

APPLICATION FOR PERMISSION TO DATE MY DAUGHTER Our neighbors raise miniature horses and just 5 days ago one of them gave birth. It has been a beautiful experience for us to watch and a precious lesson on life for my children. Aleigha and Mya will stand at the fence watching for what seems like hours as the mother horse takes care of her new pony.

Inevitably the questions have come... questions on birth, on life, on the bond of a mother and her baby... which opens the door for a discussion on adoption. These lessons are a gift for us- a chance to my girls to see and experience first hand the miracle of life. In a world full of chaos, disasters and pain I praise God for the gift of standing outside in the gentle breeze with the sun on our faces and witnessing the miracle of life. All around us there is beauty and good- little glimpses of God's presence when we really look... the gift of family, love, friendships and His marvelous creations.

"God saw all that he had made, and it was good." Genesis

NOTE: This application will be incomplete and rejected unless accompanied by a complete financial statement, job history, lineage, and current medical report from your doctor.

NAME_____________________________________ DATE OF BIRTH____________HEIGHT___________ WEIGHT____________ IQ__________ GPA_____________ SOCIAL SECURITY #_________________ DRIVERS LICENSE #________________BOY SCOUT RANK AND BADGES__________________________________________HO ME ADDRESS_______________________ CITY/STATE___________ ZIP______ Do you have parents? ___Yes ___No Is one male and the other female? ___Yes ___No If No, explain: ___________________________________________________ __________ ___________________________________________________ __________________ Number of years they have been 76

married ______________________________If less than your age, explain ___________________________________________________ _________________ ___________________________________________________ _________________ ACCESSORIES SECTION: A. Do you own or have access to a van? __Yes __No B. A truck with oversized tires? __Yes __No C. A waterbed? __Yes __No D. A pickup with a mattress in the back? __Yes __No E. A tattoo? __Yes __No F. Do you have an earring, nose ring, pierced tongue, pierced cheek or a belly button ring? __Yes ___No (IF YOU ANSWERED 'YES' TO ANY OF THE ABOVE, DISCONTINUE APPLICATION AND LEAVE PREMISES IMMEDIATELY. I SUGGEST RUNNING.) ESSAY SECTION: In 50 words or less, what does 'LATE' mean to you? ___________________________________________________ ___________ ___________________________________________________ ___________ In 50 words or less, what does 'DON'T TOUCH MY DAUGHTER' mean to you? ___________________________________________________ ___________ ___________________________________________________ ___________ In 50 words or less, what does 'ABSTINENCE' mean to you? ___________________________________________________ ___________ ___________________________________________________ ___________ REFERENCES SECTION: When would be the best time to interview your: father? _____________ mother? _____________ pastor? _____________ SHORT-ANSWER SECTION: Answer by filling in the blank. Please answer freely, all answersare confidential.

A: If I were shot, the last place I would want to be shot would be: ___________________________________________________ ___________ B: If I were beaten, the last bone I would want broken is my: ___________________________________________________ ___________ C: A woman's place is in the: ___________________________________________________ ___________ D: The one thing I hope this application does not ask me about is: ___________________________________________________ ___________ E. What do you want to do IF you grow up? ___________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________

___________________________________________________ ___________ F. When I meet a girl, the thing I always notice about her first is: ___________________________________________________ ___________ G. What is the current going rate of a hotel room? __________________ I SWEAR THAT ALL INFORMATION SUPPLIED ABOVE IS TRUE AND CORRECT TOTHE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE UNDER PENALTY OF DEATH, DISMEMBERMENT, TORTURE, CRUCIFIXION, ELECTROCUTION, CHINESE WATER TORTURE, RED HOT POKERS, AND HILLARY CLINTON KISS TORTURE. _____________________ Applicant's Signature (that means sign your name, MORON! Mother's Signature _________________________________ Father's Signature _______________________________ ________________________________ Pastor/Priest/Rabbi____________________ State Representative/Congressman_______________ Thank you for your interest, and it had better be genuine and non-sexual. Please allow four to six years for processing.You will be contacted in writing if you are approved. Please do not try to call or write (since you probably can't, and it would cause you injury). If your application is rejected, you will be notified by two gentleman wearing white ties carrying violin cases. (you might watch your back) To prepare yourself, start studying Daddy's Rules for Dating .Daddy's Rules for Dating Your dad's rules for your boyfriend (or for you if you're a guy): Rule One: If you pull into my driveway and honk you'd better be delivering a package, because you're sure not picking anything up.

Rule Two: You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter's body, I will remove them..

Rule Three: I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be falling off their hips. Please don't take this as an insult, but you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want to be fair and open minded about this issue, so I propose this compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing and your pants ten sizes too big, and I will not object. However, in order to ensure that your clothes do not, in fact come off during the course of your date with my daughter, I will take my electric nail gun and fasten your trousers securely in place to your waist.

Rule Four: I'm sure you've been told that in today's world, sex without utilizing a 'Barrier method' of some kind can kill you.

Let me elaborate, when it comes to sex, I am the barrier, and I will kill you.

Rule Five: It is usually understood that in order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do this. The only 77

information I require from you is an indication of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house, and the only word I need from you on this subject is: 'early.'

Rule Six: I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will make you cry.

Rule Seven: As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget. If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be dating. My daughter is putting on her makeup, a process than can take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge . Instead of just standing there, why don't you do something useful, like changing the oil in my car?

Rule Eight: The following places are not appropriate for a date with my daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer than a wooden stool. Places where there is darkness. Places where there is dancing, holding hands, or happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough to induce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose down parka - zipped up to her throat. Movies with a strong romantic or sexual themes are to be avoided; movies which feature chain saws are okay. Hockey games are okay.

Old folks homes are better.

Rule Nine: Do not lie to me. I may appear to be a potbellied, balding, middle-aged, dimwitted has-been. But on issues relating to my daughter, I am the all-knowing, merciless god of your universe. If I ask you where you are going and with whom, you have one chance to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I have a shotgun, a shovel, and five acres behind the house. Do not trifle with me.

Rule Ten: Be afraid. Be very afraid. It takes very little for me to mistake the sound of your car in the driveway for a chopper coming in over a rice paddy near Hanoi . When my Agent Orange starts acting up, the voices in my head frequently tell me to clean the guns as I wait for you to bring my daughter home. As soon as you pull into the driveway you should exit the car with both hands in plain sight. Speak the perimeter password, announce in a clear voice that you have brought my daughter home safely and early, then return to your car - there is no need for you to come inside. The camouflaged face at the window is mine.

this when you and your sisters were dating. Now you need an application for your boys.

Mom Our Real Life said: You have been tagged. Please do to my blog for further instuctions. :) Our Real Life said: I love this. I copied and took it to Blake and he is wanting to post it at the door!!!!

2/5/2008 4:43:00 PM TAGGED So, here are the rules~The rules are to link the person who sent this and leave a comment on their blog so their readers can visit yours~Post the rules on your blog~Share 7 strange/weird facts about yourself~Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and link their blog~Let each person know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Ok- I am so excited- I have just been tagged... and well, I have never been tagged before and I have always dreamed of being tagged... so yes, this is quite exciting to me! Thanks Cindi! :0) Alrighty then... 7 strange/weird things about me... this ought to be EASY. 1. Might as well get this one out there right away... I pooped out of a tree when I was little. Yep, you heard me. I pooped out of a tree. I was really curious what it felt like to be a bird so there you have it. For those of you who are also curious about what it feels like to be a bird... try it, you might like it. ;0) 2. I can burp the alphabet.

3. I cannot sleep without socks on and my pants tucked into them and I have to have a fan running.

4. I can't eat eggs- they gross me out.

5. I love small towns and old cemeteries.

6. I detest going to the gas station and putting gas in my car so my sweet husband does it for me every time. :0)

Comments Reina said: Thanks for writing this.

Amy said: Ken and I thought this application was great! Our 17 year old daughter did not see the humor. :) She's afraid her dad will actually use it sometime. I don't think he would‐would he?

Gram said: This is great. I suggest you make lots of copies and hand them out when a boy comes "courting". . I wish I had had

7. I am early for everything... always. Actually, I spend half of my life waiting for things to start. :0) I was tagged by Cindi at http://livetoloveandlaugh.blogspot.com/ I am tagging http://recoveringnoah.blogspot.com/2007/06/elito-rescue.html http://not-soblandfamily.blogspot.com/ 78

http://medlenfamily.blogspot.com/2007/12/sophie-pics.html http://godsabundantblessings.blogspot.com/ http://blessedbychrist.blogspot.com/ http://www.madebynikki.blogspot.com/ http://trustingforseven.blogspot.com/ Comments Rhonda said: You always make me smile, Amy! Have a great day!

Rhonda Our Real Life said: I LOVE number 1. My life was never that exciting. How fun for you. And I really mean that. I had a wild imagination but didn't think of being an animal. Now all my kids have been all kinds of animals. I feel like I have missed my youth!

Scarlett_333 said: Thanks for tagging me! How fun :) I will do this in the next couple days when I get some time!

P.S. I can't eat eggs either... blech.

2/5/2008 9:32:00 PM

The Big and the Little One of my favorite songs is by Mercy Me called Blink of an Eye. When I hear them sing the line-“How can I further your kingdom when I’m so wrapped up in mine?” I am so convicted… convicted of the many, many times I have been so wrapped up in my plans, my world, working out the details of how I thought my life should be, that I forgot that it’s not about what Amy wants or how Amy thinks it should be, but about furthering God’s kingdom.

I forget that it makes no difference to God how old we are, whether we are rich or poor, have 10 children or none at all.

He can use us. God doesn’t care if our kids are too far apart in age- or too close in age…God does not need us to be perfect, experienced, or even prepared… all God cares about is our willingness to obey His call. He will work out the rest of the details… just like he did in my backyard that day.

One of my favorite, yet unexpected, blessings is the bond between the big and the little ones in our house. I actually feared this- feared the large age gap between these kids, worrying that the difference was too great for them to ever really know each other or ever really bond. I fear it so much because you see, it wasn’t MY plan. I didn’t want my kids that far apart in age. It wasn’t how ‘I’ pictured it would be. But a good friend of mine reminded me that we are not to put 79

limitations on God and what He can do. I know I am guilty of this…There are so many times when I have done just that- put limits on God because I couldn’t see the whole picture, couldn’t see how all the pieces could fall into place. I let what the world views as perfect or good stop me from things God has asked me to do…thinking maybe we are too old to adopt or already had too many children to adopt again. I’ve let financial fears stop us from doing the things that God has called us to do, forgetting that God does not need our money. I can find so many reasons why we wouldn’t succeed, couldn’t possibly make it work... and so many fears in my own inadequacies that sometimes I couldn't even take that first step to begin the journey. Yet as I watched through the window as Travis, my 17 year old, taught Mya, my 5 year old, how to dribble that soccer ball and shoot it into the net - I just sat back and smiled. Seeing them spending time together was one of those moments where I knew that my friend had been right- I can’t put limits on God. I can’t see what the future holds or how it will unfold.

But God can. My biggest and my smallest do have strong bonds, despite their difference in age and once again God knew what was best.

“He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30

Lord, so many times I find myself trying to play your role… I put limits on what you can do…. I believe that ‘I’ have it all figured out. How many times have I missed out on a blessing you had in mind because ‘I’ got in the way and lacked faith in you? Help me to remember daily that you are my source of strength and that yes without you ‘I” could not succeed but in you I can do anything you call me to do. I give you credit for all that I am and all that I can do. I am totally dependent on you and nothing apart from you. Everything I have and am comes from your strength. When the doubts creep in, when the weight of the world is too much and I can’t see the way, help me to stay focused on you and you alone.

Comments Anonymous said: I love this post because I can relate to it. It is such a blessing to see my oldest Jake hang out with and play with Anna. It's just been happening recently and it stops me in my tracks every time. They are special moments I would have never expected since Jake's so busy "in his world" these days.

Definitely a gift! Hugs, DebbieT Gram said: I loved this picture of Trav and Mya. How wonderful that he takes the time to help her learn soccer. She'll remember her big brother helping her too. Hope they will always be close.

Mom

2/7/2008 8:58:00 PM

Welcome HOME Mario!

My sister and family are floating on cloud 9 tonight with her new son in their arms forever! I actually got to talk to him on the phone briefly (my kids were grabbing the phone for their chance too!) He sounds SO SWEET and Jenny said he is of course drop dead gorgeous and REALLY FUNNY! God is good like that- knows exactly what child fits exactly in what family. I cannot wait to meet him and I am so excited they are all together at last! LOVE YOU MARIO!!!

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Rhonda said: Oh, Amy, he is too cute! Congratulations to Jenny and your entire family! You are so right about how God knows exactly what child fits with what family. Walt is sooooo much like Donnie, not only in looks but personality too!

Rhonda Anonymous said: Mario is GORGEOUS! I'm so happy that he is with his family now. Makes my eyes tear up just to think of their first meeting....you're right, God is so good at fitting our families together! DebbieT

Lord, you have equipped up with everything we need and I give you permission to use me when ever and where ever you need. I have made the choice with a willing heart to follow and obey you even when I am frightened and unsure‐ for when I do this I am proving to you where my heart really is‐ with you. I will follow you without question. Teach me Your ways, Lord, as I grow in you.

Comments Wendi said: Wow Amy! That is awesome! You are covered in prayers and we are so excited for your family. You know, I've only met your family once, but I can honestly say, "of course two different cases would be considering you for their child" ‐ God's blessing is upon you and you steward it well!

Rachel said: Welcome home Mario!

BTW, I tagged you on my blog today.

Angel said: He has such GORGEOUS eyes. I will be so grateful to hear wonderful reports of him starting to feel safe and secure.

What a blessing that he is finally with his forever family. Angel

Angel said: YOU KNOW I AM PRAYING LIKE CRAZY! We are almost there! Hugs, Angel

2/8/2008 12:00:00 PM

Ellen said: Prayers & blessings to you.

Cousin Ellen

Update on Sweet 'E' and our other surprise

Anonymous said: Amy....You know I always have believed you get what you give!!!! You are the best Mom EVER!!! So I think it would be just like God to bless you with 8 kids!!!! You could handle it!!! You too Todd! Love ya! Jenny Our Real Life said: Oh My. I am praying so hard for you. This will be a big piece of news any way that it works out!

I am praying God will give you peace with His decision for all involved. I will be praying for you until I see God has given you the answers!

"Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go." Joshua 1:16 Our caseworker called yesterday and they are deciding next Tuesday the 12th who Sweet E's forever family will be. It is between us and one other family. If you have a spare second that day and think of us- your prayers would mean the world.

We really just want God's will to be done- no matter what that is. More than anything I want Sweet E to be in the forever family that God wants Him to be in... Our wants and desires put aside.

But our news didn't stop there. God has a sense of humor.

Months ago our caseworker had also submitted us for a 6 month old baby girl. (She is 9 months old now). Adoptions through the state can take months and often times your caseworker will submit your homestudy when she see's a good match come through for you and sometimes you don't hear anything for months or sometimes never at all. Anyway- our caseworker had no sooner just hung up from talking to Sweet E's caseworker and this baby girls caseworker called to let her know that we were one of three families being considered for this baby girl and that next Tuesday the 12th they would be deciding who her forever family is. Same day. Very funny. Let's see- that would make EIGHT kids for us... They say 'Eight is Enough' you know.

Stacy said: I am praying for you. May God's will be done.

Stacy (adopting Isabella) Rachel said: How exciting! I will be praying. Make sure you post to the Yahoo group too so that the ladies there can be praying for you.

Sara said: I will definitely pray for you. I imagine you are excited and scared, but you have amazing faith. God is smiling down on you Amy! Whitney said: Very cool to see God's plan unfolding in the lives of these precious ones! Praying for your family!

2/10/2008 8:51:00 PM

Love is in the Air

"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much". Luke 16:10 81

I've always loved Valentines Day. I remember as a child carefully selecting which Valentine card I would bring to school.

I certainly didn't want to give one that had the word love on it to just any boy, and I saved the cutest ones with the most glitter for my best friends. On Valentines Day morning we would wake up and find on the end of our beds a chocolate heart and some sort of gift of love that my mom had left us sometime during the night. And my favorite- the conversation hearts- heart shapped sugar candy with messages such as "call 82Â

me, be mine, first kiss, it's love, dream girl" and more. I have found that my children are just as in love with the idea of Valentines Day as I was. Aleigha and Mya have spend endless hours cutting out tiny red, pink and white hearts, carefully selecting the perfect stickers to put on them. My oldest son and I went shopping just today to buy the perfect Valentine Day gift for his 'sweetheart' as well. Love is in the air- just like Jesus hoped it would be- but not just on Valentines Day. As a matter of fact, love is so important to Jesus that Scripture overflows with verses about love, with passages that speak of divine love, brotherly love and romantic love. Just open your bible and the word love is there over and over again. Jesus was so serious about us loving one another that he commanded us to "Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:12. So I got to thinking about that and asking myself the question- do I take the command to love seriously? Am I always loving others the way Jesus loves me? Or do I tend to only love those who are loveable- the ones who are easy to love? What about the lady who was rude to me in the grocery store, or the man who cut me off in traffic? I confess I probably failed there.

"Test me, O Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind." Psalm 26:2 Lord, I pray today that you emply the contents of my heart so that I can become more useful to you. I invite you to once again be the master designer of my heart‐ redecorate, rebuild and expand as you see need. Do whatever it take to make me more like you, Lord. The process may be painful but the the gain is more than worth it. When I think of the price you paid for me‐ the ultimate act of love, I recognize the importance of loving others the way you love me‐ unconditionally. Love through me today Lord, and when I love others, help me to prove that love by following through with intense obedience and sacrifice, because that is what you did for me.

"Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth". 1 John 3:18 Comments Sara said: Such amazingly beautiful girls!

2/11/2008 4:15:00 PM

Serving

How beautiful are your feet?

Did you know that Jesus has a foot fetish? He thinks that feet are beautiful… he sees beauty in our feet when we are not afraid to get up, MOVE, and have the courage to serve. Often times we refer to this as being the ‘hands and feet’ of Jesus.

While this is true, I often wonder if maybe Jesus didn’t mean for us to take this a step further. I think that God wanted us to not only serve with our hands and feet- but with the eyes of our heart as well.

When I think of a true servant-Mother Theresa is probably one of the first individuals who come to mind. I believe that is because she took serving to the next level. Mother Theresa said that in each face of the dying, the diseased, the destitute she served- she saw the face of Christ. "Christ in the distressing disguise of the poor" as she put it. Many Christians are good at serving- good at writing checks and good at volunteering.

While that is noble and definitely does make a difference- I think that scripture challenges us to do more than just ‘the right thing’. I think it begs us to look into the face of those we serve and treat them as if they ARE Jesus.

Look around you- do you see Jesus? He is in the face of the homeless man living under the bridge…in the neighbor who is going through a divorce… and the little boy in the foster care system who is HIV+. Do you see him?

While God loves beautiful feet- he wants us to take a step further and look deeper into the eyes of those we serve… and I can guarantee you, you will see Jesus there.

Jesus said, "As you have done it to the least of these, you have done it to me."

2/12/2008 9:03:00 AM

True Treasures 83

"Measure your wealth not by the things you have, but by the things for which you would not take money."

2/12/2008 9:09:00 AM

Finding comfort Last night we had terrible storms- lightening, thunder, hail and rain. I woke up and told my husband that Mya would most likely be coming into our room soon since she is deathly afraid of storms. I was amazed to wake up sometime later on and discover that she indeed had NOT come in and crawled into our bed. So, I tip toed into her and Aleigha's room to discover this...

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has been reading my blog- I just wanted to say thanks Jimmy for checking in on us... that makes my day!

Comments Rhonda said: We are so proud of yall. seems like we know everyone of you already from talking to Rhonda & Donnie the last several years, We wish everyone the best. What would we do without these special children.

Jimmy & Voda Mullen Anonymous said: We are praying and waiting to hear with you!

Post something quick! :o)

Lisa H. Phyllis said: Amy ‐ Thinking about you and your family today!

And yes, I will be stalking your blog for the rest of the day :)

Phyllis

And then this...

2/12/2008 12:03:00 PM

Time

Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? Ecclesiastes 4:11

2/12/2008 9:40:00 AM

Thank you my precious friends I just wanted to say THANK YOU to all of you for your sweet emails, phone calls, kind words, encouragment and prayers.

You have no idea how much they mean. I don't know what the outcome will be today with Sweet E or Baby D- but I know one thing- I am truly blessed by your gifts of friendship. It amazes me that you would take the time out of your day to think of us and pray for us.

Also, there is sweet man by the name of Jimmy Mullens who

Does this day seem to be really long or is it just me? I keep looking at the clock... and it's hardly moving. What is up with that?

I have been emailing back and forth with our caseworker, Lisa, who is representing us today for Sweet E and Baby D. I have to tell you- I LOVE the girl. She is fantastic and knows her job well.

I don't know how we have always been so blessed with the greatest caseworkers in this world. First we had Tami and Jynger from Dillon, International. Hello- could they come ANY sweeter? They were amazing- so caring and I honestly couldn't have made it through our 'first' adoption experience without them. Then came Felis from Special Delivery. She ROCKS. I am always telling her I want to be her- the girls got heart, compassion and soul. I keep trying to think of some way I could inch my way into her family... hey, I know- maybe they could adopt me???

Ok- back to staring at the clock. I really think perhaps I need to change the batteries in it or something- this day is taking forever!

Comments Christine said: Was shot over your way from Leslie. I'm on pins and needles. I just got a call from the state today, as we're starting the process again (hopefully a sibling group this time around).

So exciting, and so NERVE WRACKING, all at the same time. I'm praying for my new blog friend, Amy, today, and her entire family (including those that will be entering it! yea!).

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Sarah said: I'm praying for you!!!

Michelle Riggs said: Brent and I are praying for you today. We will be glued to your blog!

2/12/2008 1:41:00 PM

The 2 sides of Miss Aleigha BEAUTY

2/12/2008 5:06:00 PM

Our newest Addition!!!

Once again- THANK YOU all so much for your prayers- we are SO EXCITED right now! We were actually chosen for BOTH kidsSweet E AND Baby D!!! BUT- because the meetings were scheduled so close together our caseworker feels that they may not give us Baby D once they find out we were selected for Sweet E also. Part of me is sad, but the other part of me knows that God knew that and will work out the details.

Apparently Baby D was just placed in her new foster home 2 weeks ago and they would LOVE to keep her- BUT because they had asked for homestudies to be sent in months ago to inquire about adopting her (which is when our caseworker sent in our information) the family did not know about her and therefore did not have the chance. So, perhaps now they will. I know it's all very complicated but it was our prayer all alongfor God's will to be done. So we are giggling, excited, celebrating, dancing and praising God right now!!! ♥ Sweet "Kaden" is coming HOME! ♥ Comments Jennifer said: Amazing news! Been praying for your family... such a blessing!!!!

Phyllis said: That is such great news and I am so excited for all of you!!! Can't wait to hear more about him and the adoption.

Oh, and more pictures, please :)

Phyllis

And the BEAST

Cliff and Tami said: What wonderful news for your family ‐ congratulations!!

Anonymous said: Yeah‐‐‐celebrating with you! How exciting for all of you!!! Post details soon. Congratulations‐‐Heather Rhonda said: CONGRATULATIONS! We are so happy for you! I have been stalking your blog all day today and am so excited to hear your great news! Looking forward to seeing pictures and learning when you will be getting him!

Our Real Life said: CONGRATS!!! I am so very happy for you and Kaden. He will have the neatest family I know.

Noah Bear said: Yea! Yea! Yea! I am so excited for you!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to meet little Kaden and hold him and spoil him rotten as one of his many "aunties". (Did you know that I just appointed myself as one of his aunts?) :‐) Congratulations to you and your whole family. I'm sure the kids are so excited about having a little brother. Can't wait to meet him!

"Auntie" Leslie

Comments Jenny said: Even you beastie is beautiful! Titi Jenny

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Sarah said: Yeah!!! Praise the Lord! I'm so excited!

Congratulations!

Sara said: I am so excited for you. I've been praying and thinking about you (oh yeh, and checking your blog too!). How wonderful! I am sure you will post details, as to when he will come home and how old he is. Yeh Block family!!!

Michelle Riggs said: WoooHoooo!!! I am so happy for you all, Amy! SupermomE11 said: AMY!!!!!! I have been checking and praying all day and I am SO excited for you guys!!!

You have to email me a picture! :)

Hugs and HUGE congrats!!!

Love, Erin

2/13/2008 7:19:00 AM

Update I thought I'd post a little update since I have had lots of requests for more information and pictures. You all are so sweet by the way! Unfortunately at this time we don't have any new pictures- only the one the state posted when searching for a family for Kaden. (My sister Jenny actually found him for me and the day before I found her son for her!)

How cool is that? For Baby D I have seen a picture BUT since she is technically still in foster care I am not allowed to post one on a public blog unless they had previously posted one, which they had not. So you will just have to trust me, she is CUTE. :0) As soon as I can though, this blog will be FULL of pictures!

Much of the information we have on Kaden I will also not be able to share. He has had an extremely hard past and been through a LOT for a little boy of just 16 months. It will be his story to share one day how he wishes and if he wishes. I know though that God can use the painful experiences in our lives when we allow Him and I am praying that we can raise Kaden to have peace in that. I know looking back on my life the times that were the hardest were the times I grew and changed the most. It was never fun, but the end result were worth it. I don't ever want Kaden to look at himself as 'poor me' but rather look at his life as a blessing. Because most definately he has already blessed our family and he's not even home yet.

helps with bonding when we can rock him and feed him his bottled.

As for when we get to bring him home- they have to obtain a certain document which should take 1-2 weeks and then we can begin our visits. The first visit we will go to the foster home he is at right now (which is a great home and they would have loved to have adopted him but they are 60 years old and felt they could not). At this visit we get to meet him and hang out and play for a few hours. Next visit we are allowed to take him for a few hours to do something fun like the zoo or McDonalds playland or something. 3rd visit we get to bring him home for the weekend!! Then if all is going well they will schedule for adoptive placement- meaning he will come home with us FOREVER. :0) We have lots to do before then- did I mention I have nothing for a little boy anymore??? I'm still trying to decide about the whole crib thing- my kids were pretty much climbing out of their cribs by his age so I am not sure what we will do. I'd hate to buy one for a month. Plus we need to find out his shoe size and clothing size. I don't think he will like us much if we dress him in left over pink sparkly dresses from Aleigha and Mya. My boys have high hopes he will be good at football... his daddy and I just want him to be whatever God calls him to be. For I know God has big plans for this amazing little hero- my new son- because He has definately made it clear he was to be our son. He pushed us to put all our fears aside and step out in faith. There is no where else I would rather be- then holding my precious children in the Lord's grip.

Thank you Lord for once again expanding our family. Some may view us as crazy but I know in your eyes God we are right where we should be and there is no where else I would rather be.

Thank you Lord for the privilege of serving you. I am in awe, and I am so very, very blessed.

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21 Comments Sarah said: Amy ‐ I love how you love your kids! I'm so exicted for you and can't wait to hear more about Kaden!

Rhonda said: Thanks for the update, Amy! We are so happy for all of you!

Rhonda Mandy said: Congratulations again!

Anonymous said: Amy, Have I said that I'm so excited for you??? yep, only a few times now! It has been awesome to watch God work in the life of your family and also to watch you as you step out in faith to see what God is leading you to. I can't wait to hear more about Kaden as you get to know him as your son! Hugs to all the Blocks!!

DebbieT

Some fun things I know about Kaden: they told us he loves animals and other children (which is a good thing in our house because we have lots of children and some days they act just like animals!!) They said he is small- but very strong. He is still taking a bottle which I am so thankful for because it really 87

2/13/2008 2:13:00 PM

Baby D I just found out that we are not going to be getting Baby D too.

Strange as it sounds I have complete peace in this. She was a beautiful, perfect baby but we know Kaden was meant to be ours- no doubt. God made that very obvious. Baby D's foster family will most likely now be able to keep her- and I can't help but to think that maybe God used this to allow that to happen.

Her foster family is THRILLED and one thing I did not want was to take someone else's blessing. Yes total peace. Thank you God for your reassurance.

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:7

now that we have SEVEN kids!) Anyway- sweet of him, even if he did break our deal. I 'sort' of broke it too although I really didn't spend any money. But last night I ran out to his car and dumped about 200 little red and white paper hearts the kids and I had cut out all over the inside of his car for him to find this morning! Bet he had 'loving thoughts' for me when he had to pick them all up. Hee/Hee Oh I love romance... even after all these years we still got it going on.

Comments Jenny said: How sweet...it kind of made me gag! Ha! Jen

2/14/2008 2:52:00 PM

Cold Season

Comments Anonymous said: Amy: A huge congrats to you and your family!! I can't wait to see a new picture of Mr.Kaden.

Leveta Anonymous said: isn't it awesome when you can feel God's hand in what is happening and you know beyond a doubt that everything is the way it is supposed to be? I'm so happy for you that you are experiencing that peace about Baby D. :) mucho hugs, DebbieT

Colds and flu are everywhere right now. Seems like everyone I talk to has it at their house. Ours is no different. Today I was helping Mya wipe her nose and I said to her "Mya, what are we going to do with this silly nose of yours? It will not stop running!" A few minutes later she comes running back into the room... "Don't worry mommy- I fixed it!"

Michelle Riggs said: I am so glad that you are at peace about this. God's hand is on your family. Kaden is such a precious boy.

I am very thankful that he is has a great family.

2/14/2008 10:48:00 AM

Happy Valentines Day! My kids woke up all excited today to find their new swimsuit and chocolate hearts on the end of their bed. They had half the chocolate gone before they left for school and Aleigha and Mya had devoured all of theirs by 9:30. Hey, it's Valentines Day after all. My sweet husband who made a pact with me NOT TO BUY Valentines gift for eachother this year (since we are adopting Kaden and still need to purchase so many things for him) did not keep his end of his deal. He had to leave at 6:00 a.m this morning for work and so every hour on the hour from 7:00a.m. on I have gotten a phone call from him telling me where to look for the next 'little surprise' he had hidden for me. Now since obviously he is a man- you can guess what each little gift has been- a pair of underware or some Bath and Body Works bubble bath stuff. (as if I will EVER have time for a bubble bath

Hey, whatever works!

2/15/2008 3:07:00 PM

Be the change There have been many days where I find myself grumbling about things… upset because the foster system is far from perfect, frightened because there was another shooting at a college, angry because of the high price of gas. Now while 88

these feelings are normal- I cannot help but to ask myselfwhat part I play in it. So many of us want the world to be different without any involvement. We want the pollution problem to fix itself. We want someone else doing the serving, someone else donating the money and someone else coming up with a solution. We want everyone around us to changeeveryone else to do the work. I admit change is hard. Most of us run from change- fear change. But in reality, change is constantly happening around you whether you fear it or not.

One of my all time favorite quotes is from Ghandi- "Be the change you wish to see in this world."

If we want to see improvement, want the world to be a better place- we have to start with ourselves. Hate knowing there are families going to bed hungry each night in your neighborhood?

Start a food drive. Don’t like knowing there are thousands of children dying of HIV in Africa every second? Go on a mission trip- or better yet- adopt a HIV+ child. Are you worried about the environment? Quit wasting and quit using plastic. Tired of the high price of gas? Car pool, ride your bike or better yetstay at home. Join a cause- support an organization. Tutor a child- open your home. Serve. Educate. Inspire. Start with YOU. You be the change you wish to see in this world. Don’t know how? Ask God- pray that He makes His priorities your priorities and then obey His command. Lord, use me again today. Let me be the change.

“Lord, let our eyes be opened. “ Matthew 20:33 Comments Mandy said: Beautiful quote and post!

KelseyChristine said: Yes!! Beautifully stated.

Love, love, LOVE the quote.

The boys...

Bingaling said: Amen and Amen.

Chanda

2/17/2008 12:29:00 PM

Boys and girls It's a beautiful Sunday afternoon- a good time for some quality family time. I couldn't help notice though the difference... the difference between the girls and the boys. See for yourself...

The girls... just so sweet

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Lord, there are times when I feel like I can't make it another step. My strength is gone and I don't know if I can go forward.

So I look to you Lord‐ for your power. Yet when my spirit is weak you can accomplish great things through me and my obedience. Whatever comes Lord, I will be ready and willing to act quickly to your call, to trust in you to live for you. In you I will become strong, steadfast‐ unshaken. I will not give in to my weakness. Use me Lord, even when it hurts, even I weap‐ use me.

"To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps."

1 Peter 2:21 Don't worry- little brother getting squished on the bottom made it out safely.

Comments Sarah said: Psalm 127:3&5 (ESV) Behold,children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!

I'm praying that the Lord would bless you with extra grace and strength as you prepare for Kaden to come home.

2/18/2008 2:46:00 PM

Strength

JuJu ‐ said: Wow ‐ if only you knew how badly I needed to come across this:)

Thanks ‐ what an amazing woman of God you are:)

JULIA:)

Have you ever stumbled across a verse in the bible and felt like you just found a piece of gold? I felt that today when I came across this...

"But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength." 2 Timothy 4:17

Jenny said: You can make a difference..One child at a time, one person at a time...one day at a time...God is with you...everybody can see that! Just stay connected to Him..recharge yourself through Him often!!!! I will be with you every step! Hugs! Jenny

How cool is it to know that God- the King- stands right by our side?

These past couple of days have been rough. When we found out that we were chosen to be Kaden's parents we were so excited and felt like we were floating on air- but it didn't take long for someone to burst our bubble and we came crashing down - hard. I knew they would come- the comments, the less than enthusiastic remarks, the "are you crazy?" "better you than me", the jokes about our family size, "you can't save the world", 'what will you drive?" and more. I've preached on here enough about not living to please the world... preached about doing something BIG for God. But I have to admit that when the comments come they hurt- even when you are doing what you know you are supposed to be doing- it hurts. As I have said there are parts of Kaden's story that I will not be sharing on a public blog... things that would make a grown man cry. Things that we will only be able to deal with in God's strength alone.

So trust me when I say this journey is going to be taking one tiny baby step at a time and keeping our eyes focused on the Lord every inch of the way.

Michelle Riggs said: I am so sorry Amy. Your family is serving God in an incredible way. I am so proud of you. So many times when people react they did they are people who have been called by God and refuse to follow His path. I am proud of you for doing God's will.

Sara said: I know people often make stupid remarks, but hang in there and just use it to teach others. I am amazed at your big family and know that God created all different kinds of people...God gave you a gift to be the mother to these children.

There are others who just ask questions in awe:) Your children are blessings and your new addition will be no different! amy jordan said: amy you are one of my earthly heroes. I know envy is wrong, but I admire your big fun family and the work God is doing through you one little life at a time. Oh, and I love your name he hee...

Our Real Life said: People talk without thinking! I have determined a lot of people make comments about things like that without trying to be mean but rather just wondering how you plan on handling your life. Its not there business but they

"God is our refuse and strength, an ever‐present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1 90

exactly what I need to hear.

Leslie

just don't thnk.

Hang in there girl. I know you did the right thing.

Jenny said: LOVE IT..LOVE IT..LOVE IT..LOVE IT...LOVE IT...WHAT A CHALLENGE WE CAN ALL LEARN FROM!!!

2/19/2008 8:28:00 AM

The Burden of Discontent I have been reading a book by Max Lucado (love that guy!) called Traveling Light. I just had to share what I read last night from chapter 4.

Lucado is talking about Psalm 23:1 'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want' and he explains it in a way I had never thought of before. Lucado says that often we live in the 'prision of want'. The prisioners are 'in want'. "They want something.

They want something bigger. Nicer. Faster. Thinner. They want.

He goes on to say that "they don't want much. They just want one. One new job. One new car. One new house. One new spouse." But Lucado tell us that the psalmist David lets us in on a secret- the secret of satisfaction. 'The Lord is my shepherd. I shall now want." "David has found the pasture where discontent goes to die. It's as if he is saying, 'What I have in God is great than what I don't have in my life."

Lucado continues to remind us of two biblical truths. "Your stuff isn't yours. Ask any coroner. No one takes anything with him." Naked a man comes from his mother's womb, and as he comes, so he departs. He takes nothing from his labor that he can carry in his hand". Eccles. 5:15 NIV And then Lucado hits the nail on the head when he says "All that stuff- it's not yours. And you know what else about all that stuff? It's not you. Who you are has nothing to do with the clothes you wear or the car you drive. Jesus said, "Life is not defined by what you have, even when you have a lot" Luke 12:15. Heaven does not know you as the fellow with the nice suit or the woman with the big house or the kid with the new bike. Heaven knows your heart. "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart". 1 Samual 16:7 NIV. When God thinks of you, he may see your compassion, your devotion, your tenderness or quick mind, but he doesn't think of your things" (Max Lucado- Traveling Light).

2/19/2008 8:20:00 PM

Gratitude Day~ my mom and dad Thankful

So I challenged myself today- I took a mental picture of myself minus all my 'things'. Me-standing before the Lord with NOTHING but any compassion, devotion, mercy, love, and heart that I might have shared. I took a long hard look at what God see's in ME daily. I challenge you to do the same thing...

What does your mental picture look like today? What does Jesus see when he looks at you- minus your stuff?

Comments Noah Bear said: Oh Amy. I just love your blog. God is using you daily ‐ did you know that? Do you have any idea how many people you touch with your words? You always seems to know

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Jenny said: Way to go...you made me cry AGAIN today! Hugs!

Anonymous said: Thank you Amy for your nice words about us.

We're really not that good but guess we've got you fooled. You do "honor thy mother and thy father". We love you all.

Mom and Dad

2/20/2008 7:56:00 AM

Letters, letters everywhere Aleigha and Mya are taking off with their learning- and I am one proud mama! (Thank you Angel for introducing us to Leap Frog Letter Factor DVD). So, when they first began writing their letters, and then words, I had a grin on my face the size of the moon like any proud mommy would. But then... the letters, the words, started to 'pop' up in the strangest of places...

Lord, thank you so much for blessing me with my precious, supportive parents. I pray not a day goes by that I take them for granted. Thank you for the blessing of their unconditional love‐ especially during the times when I did not deserve it. I thank you for their beautiful example of how to parent a child and how important family truly is. I am so grateful for the safe, loving home they provided for me and for the sacrifices they made to ensure that I was loved and cared for the way every child longs to be. I am grateful that they taught me how to believe in myself, to stand up for what is right, to be proud of the work I do, and to never give up on my dreams. Thank you for blessing me through their lives. Their hearts, their compassion for others, their giving nature, their strength and their love is a gift to all who know them. From their example I have learned what is really important in this world‐ and that is you Lord.

Okay, but still kind of cute...

Then, then I found this... a great big "A" etched into the side of my vehicle with a rock. (Wonder who wrote that one Miss Aleigha??)

These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

Deuteronomy 6:6‐9 Comments 92

2/21/2008 1:01:00 PM

Not 'quite' as cute anymore...

Good things she is so cute and good thing her daddy is in the profession he is. :0) Comments JuJu ‐ said: oooooooooooppppppppppppppppsssssss!

SO hard to be mad at them some days ‐ OK ‐ all days ‐ cuteness wins over anger evey day here;) gald it does at your house too:):)

I LOVE your blog!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Angel said: UH OH! Maybe you are regretting showing them that DVD. ;0) Angel Our Real Life said: Oh my golly. Aleigha what were you thinking???? The initial should have been M. But look at the beautiful face. How could you punish here for learning???

Jenny said: Aleigha...Learn from your smart Titi Jenny. You must carve one of your siblings initials NOT YOURS! Then...don't look guilty! Love you little princess!

I just started reading the book Dangerous Surrender ~What happens when you say Yes to God, by Kay Warren. After having about 5 people tell me it is a ‘must', I thought, ok God- I hear you and I went out and purchased the book. I am only on the 2nd chapter but I have to tell you- you NEED to read this book.

It is life changing- even after just the first 2 chapters. I don’t want to spoil it for any of you, but the just of the book is as Kay Warren says- if you had to sum up Christianity into one word is would be surrender. Now I know we all like to think of ourselves as willing- as submissive, as surrenders to God. But are we really?? I’m not talking about serving in the church nursery when we really don’t feel like it… or bringing someone a meal when our schedule doesn’t really permit it. Kay is talking about true surrender- being willing to give it all up for God. ALL of it. Surrender to His will- no matter the cost. Kay says God can use an average person like you and me to do something big if we allow him. If we truly allow him…

As I read through the rest of the book I know I will have more to share. But today I wanted to touch on this verse that God has placed on our hearts ever since we found out about 'Sweet E'- our little Kaden. It’s from Joshua 1:16: “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go”. The verse doesn’t say 'some of what you have commanded us we will do… or even, as long as it doesn’t hurt me too much we will do'… it says WHATEVER and WHEREVER. Scary huh? Let me tell you- it is- because we are living it right now. Yet I am blessed beyond measure by serving God in this way. Even though it is hard, even thought there is and will continue to be pain- we will stand firm, with our roots deep into the soil of our Lord and keep our eyes focused on him.

In Dangerous Surrender, Kay Warren challenges us to surrender to God’s will… that may mean being inconvenienced, that may mean your plans, your dreams, your schedule is thrown out the window and God moves in and takes over in ways you had never dreamed.

I’d like to end with this message from her book: “To want to serve God in some conditions, but not others, is so serve Him in 93

your own way. But to put no limits on your submission to God is truly dying to yourself. This is how to worship God. Open yourself to God without measure. Let His life flow through you like a torrent. Fear nothing on the road you are walking. God will lead you by the hand. Let your love for Him cast out the fear you feel for yourself”. (taken from Dangerous Surrender, written by King Louis XIV)

Foster agencies office to pick up Kaden's files. I was so excited to get them. Excited to get to see more pictures of him and to learn more about our new son. Our caseworker told us that we needed to read the files and then say yes or no by Monday morning. I had already known we would say yes. There was never a doubt in my mind that I would say no...until I read the files.

Precious Lord, please help us hear your calling and to surrender to you. You have already equipped us with everything we need for life’s battles. Having you by our side is more than enough.

And Lord, when the journey gets long and the road is rough, help us to keep our eyes on you. Give us the spirit of willingness‐ regardless of where you lead us. For when we are left to follow our own pursuits disaster will result and that is not what you want for your children. I will guard the treasure of your word by planting its roots deep within the soil of my heart.

I chose to listen, look and obey what you tell me.

Until I saw first hand the horror, and let the reality of it sink in.

Comments Doreen said: Amy, I am sorry you have tears for Kadens past ....we can not change the past but we can create happiness with open hearts of love in our future and in the future of the ones we love.. doreen Sarah said: I think this will be my next book! Sounds encouraging and challenging and the same time. Thank you Amy, for your life's example of complete surrender.

Angel said: I KNOW RIGHT???? It's amazing. :0) Angel Anonymous said: Amy:

I'm in the midst of reading this book too, and I've been telling lots of friends I wanted them to read it, because I thought they'd appreciate it. Honestly, I thought of you when I was reading it too, so I think God really DOES want you to read this book. :o)

Keep posting on your thoughts...I need someone to process this book with becaues it packs some big punches!

Lisa H. KelseyChristine said: Thanks for sharing...I think I needed to hear that today.

2/25/2008 8:26:00 AM

The real test This weekend it became clear to me why I truly had needed to read Kay Warren's book- Dangerous Surrender. Let me explain.

Saturday morning I got up early and drove an hour to our

Then, my big talk, brave attitude, devotion, save the world ideas, ran out the door- leaving me alone, crumbled, and full of FEAR. Raw fear.

It shakes you to the core.

Paralyzes you.

Consumes you.

Overcomes you.

Now I've had bad days like everybody else. I've experienced loss, been defeated- felt like I had hit rock bottom. But nothing, nothing prepared me to look wide eyes opened at this file before me and straight into the face of evil. Nothing.

Two complete files- each 6 inches thick... with more information on Kaden's past than I even had on my other children. More than my heart could bare to read.

Now I have to admit that I am the type of person that truly does turn off the news because I cannot stand to hear or see the evil in the world. I don't like reading the newspaper either.

The 'news' is often more than I can handle. I've become an expert at looking the other way, letting someone else take care of the 'dirty' work. I prefer to stay in my own little world where wild flowers grow in my backyard, children swing on tire swings and the biggest complaint in my life is the rising cost of gasoline.

So, as I opened Kaden's file and began to flip through the pages I felt myself go into shut down mode.Visibly shaken I had to walk away. Close the files. Run. Hide-under my pillow, in a closet-anywhere.Find safety. Leave the room. Leave the horror that my son had lived over the past 16 months and walk away.

It was more than I could handle. I didn't want to step into this pain- the real deal of what Kaden had actually lived. I wanted to go back to my safe little world, shut the door, lock the windows, turn off the news. My life is good, it's easy. We do not not associate with that kind of evil. We don't let it become real in our lives because we run from it, hide from it. We don't let it in.

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hands and feet.

We pretend it doesn't even exist.

As I finished, I closed the file, and looked over at my husband... with tears streaming down our faces we held onto eachother, bowed our heads and whispered "yes Lord... your will be done."

I began to panic... my insides were screaming "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO", I could feel my heart beating faster, I felt my mind kick into over drive coming up with all sorts of good excuses to say no. I thought of ways we could explain to people that we just had to say no. I thought of how we could just make a clean break, walk away... no, better yet RUN away as fast as we could. We could keep living our life as we knew it. Forget about Kaden. Forget he even existed. Forget that even without us he would still face this past. After all, we are good people you know. We go to church every Sunday and pray for those who are hurting. Heck, we even throw a check into the offering. We bring meals to those who have new babies, we go on missions trips, and we read our bible every day. There, good enough. Or is it?

“And God said, “I will be with you.” Exodus 3:12 Comments Jman's momma said: That is quite possibly one of the most amazing things I have read. No one says these things but I know we ALL feel them.

Praise God!! for sharing how His character, His will, His love is more powerful than our feelings.

~anne

And then those words that I had read in the bible came creeping into my mind... the ones I had read daily, quoted to others, said I lived by- you know the ones... you can see throughout my blog. They became almost alive...

samhenry said: Amy, thank you for your candid post. My best friend once taught me that courage means 'doing [it] while you're still afraid' ‐ how courageous your family is...I can only imagine the wealth of character your children are learning as they watch you live.

My little Lilly asked me why I was crying...the irony...when I told her why, she said, "let's do something else mommy..." Deep down, I think we all have a "run" response to pain and fear.

None of us know when God will will ask us to do these things that paralyze us...I pray that when he asks me, I am as resolved and courageous as you are today.

"Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. " Joshua 1:16 "But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength." 2 Timothy 4:17 "The thing you should want most is God's kingdom and doing what God wants. Then all these other things you need will be given to you". Matthew 6:33

Mandy said: You and your family are amazing and inspirational. I can't imagine, I too live a life of comfort and too often do the easy thing. Thank you for such an honest post.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him and he shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5‐6” Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?Then I said, Here am I; send me. Isaiah 6:8 Matthew 18:5 reads “Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me”.

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 Slowly, throughout the course of the day God gave me the strength to read through the rest of the files. God made it clear to me the real horror that so many children just like our sweet Kaden face every day. There are Kaden's all over this world, hoping for a chance. File after file of them filled with the unimaginable- the pain, the suffering these children face at the hands of evil that exists in this world today. We can choose to look away or we can choose to step into the pain and be God's

Jennifer said: Amy...

I have to admit... I have been blog stalking to hear more news about Kaden. When you didn't update for a few days, I began to worry... (I ENJOY YOUR BLOG SO MUCH!!!) But I started to pray for you ‐ hoping that everything was okay. I am so sad about Kaden's past... but it is such a relief to know that he is joining a family that loves him, and is so anchored in God and His love.

I will be praying for you and your family as you continue this journey! God Bless You!!

KelseyChristine said: Wow, wow, wow. This was amazing‐‐ thanks for being so transparent and honest in your posts. It will be so much better for Kaden to face his past with a family who loves him by his side, encouraging him and giving him the strength to rise above all the evil in this world.

Sarah said: Amy, your faith is truly an inspiration to me. I am praying for you as you continue to trust and rest in His strength!

Creme Brule said: Amy‐‐that is sooo brave! Praying for you!

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2/28/2008 9:24:00 AM

The Dirt I haven't had a lot to blog about lately because I have been spending a lot of time soul searching and really listening to God. Yesterday- Aleigha, Mya and I spent most of the day outside- planting our garden, and just letting my mind and heart process some things. And what I discovered as I dug in the mud- is that my heart was just as black as that dirt.

It’s embarrassing to admit this… but part of the reason why I was so afraid to say yes to Kaden was because I had this fear that he might not be perfect. You know, all parents want their children to be perfect. I know- it’s silly, but we do. We want everyone else to gush over our children- say how cute they are, how they act like little angels, well mannered, polite and respectful. We want them to be straight ‘A’ students, popular, well- rounded, athletic, strong. It’s every parents dream. And well, while viewing Kaden’s files and the challenges he was coming from- I’m ashamed to admit that I was afraid. Someone told us that we were ‘taking on someone else’s problem” and I was afraid that they might be right. But you know what- I was wrong. Dead wrong.

Websters dictionary defines Perfect as this: to bring to final form. Being entirely without fault. Pure. Total. Satisfying all requirements.

You see, according to Websters dictionary and ACCORDING TO GOD- Kaden IS perfect. God does not make mistakes and God made Kaden. He brought him to final form, and Kaden is entirely without fault. He is an innocent child but because of someone else’s sin he has suffered. He is pure. Total. Made in the image of God. Perfect.

And I almost missed this because of my warped American view of perfection.

I believe that so many times in our lives we miss out on God’s blessings because they do not come packaged the way we thought they would. We don’t notice the VALUE of these gifts because we are so caught up in worlds dreams.

What I have learned is that any ideas, any dreams, any plans of how I think my life should be- I need to just throw them out the window and let God show we His ways. Because God has a purpose that is higher than ours.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, “ declares the Lord. Isaiah 55:8 God has an eternal plan that we can hardly grasp, and there is a divine nature that our infinite minds cannot comprehend. We are constantly trying to limit God with our categories and our

understanding. Just when we think we have figured God out or have determined how God should act, He does something far more marvelous than we could have ever imagined. Because we are so slow to learn this- the only thing we can do is trust what He says and praise what He does. And yet… we are so stubborn, so set in our ways- we still try to plan. We still think we know what is best. We still believe we have the perfect plan.

In the dark hours of facing my fears, and facing myself… I have grown. I am so thankful that God forgives. So thankful for God’s grace. Despite the ugliness of my heart, despite my internal fight of clinging to the worlds view of perfection- He has blessed me with the most amazing gift this world has to offer- a child. God is allowing me- to raise this beautiful, perfect child that he created. I am in awe.

Lord, I am on my knees thanking you for this privilege of being Kaden’s mother. I ask for your forgiveness when I do not see things the way they truly are‐ when my ways, my ideas are so warped from your truth.. I thank you for each and every life that you create and I thank you for making each and every child perfect. Your compassion in my own life moves me. Help me to learn to do the same for others. Help me to treat everyone alike Lord, as valuable creations‐ made in your image. I love you Lord. Amen.

Comments Rhonda said: Amy, I just wanted you to know that I am praying for you and your family! Love ya, Rhonda

2/28/2008 1:04:00 PM

PICTURES!!!!!!

We had the coolest thing happen today!!! I was filling out our adoption subsidy paperwork and I had a question for my caseworker. So I called her to ask for her help and since she didn't have the answer she had me call Kaden's caseworker. I had never spoken with her directly- only through our caseworker so it was really cool to get to thank her for all of the work she does and for how fast she is working to get him home. (If you are adopting right now- please let your caseworker know how much you appreciate them. They work hard, often at the expense of their families and all too often only get to hear the complaints). Then- she told me she had some more pictures of him and asked if I would like them!

YES!!! YES!!! YES!!! I asked her if I was able to share them and she said it was fine since they had previously posted his picture on a website (the only other picture I have of him). Basically we are just not able to share personal information about him 96

which I have not. So- she sent me these beautiful pictures of my baby boy!!! He is THE CUTEST!! Oh sweet Kaden I cannot wait to hold you for the first time and treat you like a little king.

I love you so much already that it hurts. We have been working like crazy to get his crib put together and gathering the things that he needs. We are also adding on another bedroom to our house just for him. God has been working out every little detail and taking care of all of our needs. I am blown away how everything is falling into place and so thankful that God allowed us to face our fears and step out in faith. TOTAL 100 percent PEACE since we said yes. I am SO EXCITED that I get to be this AMAZING little boys forever mommy!!

Comments kim p said: I've been touched, Amy, by reading about your struggle and seeing the way God has worked in you in a way only He can do. I'm thankful for the peace He's given you!

Kaden's a cutie! I'm excited for your family and am encouraged by your faith and surrender. Love you!

Rhonda said: OK, he is the CUTEST! Thanks for sharing these, Amy! Bingaling said: Amy, He's ADORABLE!! I'm so excited for you and for him! Can't wait to hear all about him when he joins your family!!

Chanda Jennifer said: What a precious little baby! I am so excited for you...

2/29/2008 1:08:00 PM Take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.

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Comments Jenny said: Princess Mya and Princess Aleigha! I love you and miss you soooooooooooo much! Titi Jenny Anonymous said: A proud Mom takes lots of pictures of such adorable little girls. We love seeing them.

Mom

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Jennifer said: Precious!!!

3/3/2008 9:32:00 AM

The stuff I am finding that a lot of 'stuff' goes into preparing for a seventh child. For one- our vehicle was already full with the eight of us. (We drive a Yukon which I absolutely LOVE). And because I love my Yukon and am not at all interested in another car payment or paying the gas for a 15 passenger- we found this awesome extra seat you can buy that is safety regulated and fits right into our Yukon. And get this- a couple of our kids are already excited about riding in this new rear facing seat! Ahhh, bring back memories of the station wagon we had growing up. Anyway- Todd and I ordered our new seat today and I can't wait to get it. If you want to check it out the website is http://www.littleseats.com/chevy_tahoe.htm. And, now we even have room for an extra friend!

Another little project we have been keeping busy with is adding on a bedroom for Kaden, as well as expanding our eating area to accommodate a family our size. It was already a bit squishy to begin with so adding in another chair at the table would be impossible. God has also taken care of that little detail and a man from our church volunteered to add on the bedroom and expand our eating area for $600!!!! What a huge, huge blessing. Really, I was ok with being squished- but this is such a gift. God is good. He is going to start working this Saturday so hopefully everything will be pretty much in place by the time Kaden moves in with us on the 28th of March.

There have been other little blessings along the way as well where we have really seen and felt the hand of God confirming that our decision was correct. But there has also been some challenges-some hurtful comments and some issues dealing with Kaden's special need. Through these challenges we praise God. The hard times are never fun, but I know when times are tough we lean on God even more and change the most. That is always a blessing. We have made a commitment to Kaden and a commitment to follow God at all cost. The day we said yes to God, we let Him have our life completely for His use.

Commitment requires sacrifice- sacrifice of time, money, and self. But in return God blesses you in ways and bring you more joy than you could ever imagine.

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. " John 10:10 Comments Anonymous said: I'm sure others will learn from your "stuff" suggestions. It's something we all should do. Enjoyed this blog immensely today.

Mom

Jenny said: I wanna ride in the back!!!! But only if I can eat Cracker Jacks! Titi Wendi said: all of you are so funny! that is a pretty cool solution ‐ one my husband would be happy to see, as we had been talking about eventually having to buy a suburban to fit people and belongings ‐ do they have extra seats for suburbans, too?

too cool on the home additions blessing! and wonderful confirmation that you guys are walking the right direction.

Anonymous said: Amy:

Couldn't resist commenting....We've been squished into a minivan and had one more person than seat belts since Peter came home...It's been ok, because our oldest son is away at college. We'd been looking at cars and trying to decide what to buy, and had in mind a 2000 Yukon XL. About 6 weeks ago, a friend from church came to us and told us that they felt like God wanted them to give us their car, because they'd bought a new one....It was a 2000 Yukon XL! It was one factor in Brad knowing we should adopt again....Now he'll have a heart attack when I show him the link and tell him how many more kids will fit into it! ;o)

Lisa H.

3/3/2008 6:21:00 PM

Chicken Pot pie

Tonight for dinner we are having Chicken Pot pies. I got this recipe from my old neighbor and good friend Dana. Making her recipe today made me miss her really bad. Thought I would share the recipe with you all too. Like Dana used to say- they look like they are a lot of work but they are really very easy.

And my kids loved them too.

2 can cream of potato soup 1 16 oz. can of Veg-all, drained 99

2 c. chicken- cooked and diced 1/2 c. milk 1/2 tsp. thume 1/2 tsp. black pepper 2 refrigerated pie crusts Combine the first 6 ingredients. Spoon into pie crust. Cover with top crust. Crimp edges to seal. Split top crust. Bake at 375 degrees for 40-50 minutes. Yummy!!!

3/3/2008 6:28:00 PM

More on Stuff

A few changes we have made is taking gradual steps toward gaining control of our finances. Todd and I are currently taking Dave Ramsey’s class- Financial Peace University. If you haven’t read his book or taken this class then I highly suggest it. I have never been great at finances- I don’t have a lot of knowledge about investing. Truth be told- it bores me. I ‘thought’ I was frugal and careful with our money- but we have learned so much from this class. Do you know the #1 reason why most people are not financially secure and have debt? It’s our automobiles. The #1 reason people are in financial stress is because of the car they drive! 90 percent of people with marital problems list finances as the top reason for fighting with their spouse.

Another big reason to gain control over our stuff is the Earth. I know- we all take it for granted that it’ll be here tomorrow. We take for granted clean water and clean air. But there is reason to believe that this might not always be the case. Our stuff has to end up somewhere… and it’s the land fills. I ran across the video clip on my friend Wendi’s blog http://wideopenair.blogspot.com/ (thanks Wendi!) It’s definitely worth watching and will make you think. The link is http://storyofstuff.com/ Did you know that America holds 5% of the worlds population, yet we are using 30% of its resources- and that of course, is at the expense of others.

Many of us are living our lives for‘stuff’. You know- our stuff.

The ‘stuff’ that you see in the mall that you just can’t live without. The newest gadgets, toys, and plastic junk our kids just have to have.

We have garages for our stuff, sheds for our stuff, closets for our stuff, basements and attics for our stuff, storage rentals for our stuff and we go broke for our stuff. We spend hour after hour working for our stuff- often times putting our desire for stuff before relationships with friends and family. Because after all, we just can’t live without our stuff. We like it. We like it a LOT. Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. Luke 12:15 Over the past year God has made it obvious to me that we needed to be in control of our stuff- so that we have more time to concentrate on Him. After all, if we are spending all of our time paying off our stuff then when do we find the time to serve? Let your character be free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself said, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you. Hebrews 13:5

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17‐19 A few things we are doing at home to try to make a difference is really trying to limit our waste. We have now ‘gone cloth’.

No, not all the way- I can’t quite get myself to give up toilet paper… but we have quit buying paper towels and napkins. We bought these cute little red cloth napkins (3 for $1 at the Dollar store shown in picture above) and it’s actually been fun. Kind of feels like you are eating at a fancy restaurant every night. :0) At first it took some getting used to- we were constantly reaching for the paper towels but now that we have been without them for a few weeks we hardly notice. Plus- it has saved on our grocery bill. Those things are expensive! Another thing we are trying this year is a garden- compost pile and all.

The kids think it’s a blast and I know that if anything happens to actually grow in our garden I will be one proud individual.

There is really so much more that we can all do. A great blog my friend Leslie http://www.recoveringnoah.blogspot.com/ introduced me to is http://walkslowlylivewildly.com/ This blog has lots of earth friendly ideas on doing your part.

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God has the plans to help you with your adoption. I am excited to see what He has planned for you.

Cindi Chantelle said: I am so sorry about your dissapointment. :( I will pray that now that He has closed a door, He will quickly open a big old window of opportunity!!

(PS. I just have to say that your son blesses my socks off. If my son ends up like him I don't think I'll be able to stop smiling!!

Give him a HUGE hug for me, and tell him what a role model he is.) (Oh and can you run the concept of 'arranged marriage' by him? ;) I've got 2 pretty amazing (and beautiful) teens myself!) ;) Suzette said: One of my favorite sayings is: I don't know what the future holds, but I know WHO holds the future. May your son's future be blessed no matter the path.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Sorry to hear he did NOT win!

Trusting God has better and bigger plans ahead.

It is a good thing He does NOT always give us what we want ‐ but gives us what we need ‐ to be all that He desires!

Hugs and much love ‐ you know I adore Travis in this video! and understand Abby's heartbreak over the "other" girl! :)

Jill Elisabeth‐ Truly Blessed said: Amy, ..."our plans are not always God's plans" and so many times that's what is so terribly hard for me. Thank you for the gentle reminder. I'll be praying for you while you wait. Hope you have a blessed weekend!

In Him, E

5/23/2009 8:42:00 PM

Simple joy Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.‐ Robert Brault

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"Life holds so many simple blessings, each day bringing its own individual wonder." ~John McLeod Comments Rhonda said: Loved these!!!! Looks like they had a blast!

Doreen said: SUPER FUN PICTURES AMY .. love all the smiles!

Pam said: these are absolutely gorgeous pictures!! WOW!! almost makes that cold hose water look fun! :) Debbie T said: Beautiful kiddos! Wish we were close enough they could play with Anna!!! Hugs! DebbieT Taylor said: how cute!! I love playing in the hose :) Amy said: Love those pictures! You have delightful kiddos. :) Jennifer said: I am so looking forward to days just like those!

Great pics!

Hope said: Those kids are too stinkin' cute!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Ok, now that looks like fun!

Amy those are awesome photos!

I really wish we lived near each other ‐ maybe in heaven, right???

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Love you ‐ glad to see you are all having such a blessed weekend!

Jill Kelli said: Love the quotes AND the photos! Priceless!

Kelli ugottafriend.blogspot.com Andrea H. said: So true. They are such a joy at that age and so care free. I wished I could stop that age and keep em like that forever. You are quiet the photographer.

5/24/2009 3:24:00 PM

Just in case you didn't know...

In case you are one of those stuck back in the 80's... thought I'd take this moment to enlighten (educate) you. Trust me, the hair has gotta go (you know as in BE DONE WITH IT) and SO DOES THE STIGMA- the stigma, that is, associated with what you 'heard' about HIV in the 80's.

HIV CANNOT, CANNOT, CANNOT be transmitted through casual contact. Got it? You are not in ANY danger of getting it from the guy up the street, the guy on the street, the kid in the church nursery, the guy in your dorm or your friend who just found out. Educate yourself and educate others. It's time.

HIV Transmission: Can HIV be transmitted through casual contact? http://www.positivelyadopted.com/ Comments Milk Mama said: AMEN! :D Christine said: Boooo‐ya!

Laurel said: Great post! We must get the word out.

A friend of mine was taking care of a baby from Haiti, while he was in the US for surgery. When she went to put him in the church nursery, they refused him. (And, they attended a church that didn't allow little ones in the main service. So, my friend was told to sit in the foyer.)

The pastor came to my friend and said, "I'm sure you understand. People might be afraid that their children will get HIV."

But ... guess what ... this child didn't even have HIV. He was refused because he was black, and from another country, so the assumption was made that he would be HIV positive.

I was DISGUSTED by this local church.

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Yes ... my friend changed churches very quickly.

Laurel

Debbie T said: Oh my gosh Amy! That's priceless! Kaden's adorable! Hugs~DebbieT

Pam said: Great Post!!

I am totally sure that guy in the first picture graduated the year before me! :)

Taylor said: awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww, he's adorable!

Good job kaden!!

Tessa said: Way to go Kaden! He is so cute!

Chantelle said: It is impossible to look at this kid and NOT smile!!! I could eat him for breakfast! :)

Anonymous said: amen sister!!!!!! ‐kacie

Phyllis said: SO CUTE!! I love it :) Phyllis

Elisabeth‐ Truly Blessed said: Okay, this post is so funny yet so terribly serious!! Thank you for a good laugh as well as an "in your face" post.

In Him, E

Live to love and laugh said: That is the cutest video of football EVER!!!

Love that cute little guy. He is so sweet.

Cindi

A. Gillispie said: Oh! My! Word! PERFECT! Totally linking to this from my blog. Genius.

Anita Chantelle said: Preach it, sista! I love it!!! The 80's hair connection is genius too! :) I'm doin' a happy dance. Thank you for linking to my site too! ((hug)) Andrea H. said: Ha, the hair looks good!!! Anyways, what is even more sad that the nurses and doctors at the hospital in even more denial. They are so uneducated, its scary. So when Amira had her eye surgery they were wearing gowns and gloves so they wouldn't catch HIV. They were wearing cloves when they did her heart beat. Sick stuff. But all we can do is preach and preach and preach.... This just have got to stop!!!

Great post, girl!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!

I LOVE YOU!

YOU ROCK!

HUGS and praying you are having a blessed holiday weekend!

Give your family some love from ours!!!

Jill

5/24/2009 7:51:00 PM

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? Comments Rhonda said: That is soooo cute! I wish I could just reach thru this computer and hug him! He is just precious!

Andrea H. said: Goodness, he is so dang cute!

5/26/2009 8:01:00 AM

Nothingness For a little while now I have felt that no matter how hard or how often I am seeking God‐ I just cannot hear Him. I have spent a lot of time walking, praying, and listening… but for some reason I am just left scratching my head in confusion. I hear nothing. We’ve been knocking on doors‐ but none have opened. So, we continue to pray, continue to seek, and continue to listen‐ to silence. It almost becomes deafening… and yet something inside my heart is stirring… I have a sense that He is working in us… that His plans are being made… and they are plans that we could have never imagined. It’s an odd feeling really‐ and yet strangely I am excited. Being a Christian, serving God, letting Him have my life completely is the greatest joy in this world. Today I found this devotion in my inbox…. So perhaps I finally have heard from Him today. :0) The Place of Nothingness TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2,

by Os Hillman05‐25‐2009 "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10) Do you find yourself in a place of nothingness? There is a time and place in our walk with God in which He sets us in a place of isolation and waiting. It is a place in which all past experiences are of no value. It is a time of such stillness that it can disturb the most faithful if we do not understand that He is the one who has brought us to this place for only a season. It is as if God has placed a wall around us. No new opportunities simply inactivity.

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JG said: Wow, I really needed to see this today. Thank you so much for posting this.

During these times, God is calling us aside to fashion something new in us. It is a place of nothingness designed to call us to deeper roots of prayer and faith. It is not a comfortable place, especially for a task-driven workplace believer. Our nature cries out, "You must do something" while God is saying, "Be still and know that I am God." You know the signs that you have been brought into this place when He has removed many things from your life and you can't seem to change anything.

Perhaps you are unemployed. Perhaps you are laid up with an illness.

Many people live a very planned and orchestrated life where they know almost everything that will happen. But for people in whom God is performing a deeper work, He brings them into a time of quietness that seems almost eerie. They cannot see what God is doing. They just know that He is doing a work that cannot be explained to themselves or to others.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy ‐ praying you through the "nothingness" knowing there is something coming!

Patience through faith inherits the promises of God!

Love and hugs, Jill Laurel said: Great thoughts. Thanks for sharing this devotion.

I'm so glad that the Lord spoke to you through it.

Our family is in a time of seeking new direction from the Lord.

We all feel it, as a family (even all of the adult children) ... God has something NEW and EXCITING for us. But, we have no idea what it is.

We are, also, being still and knowing (and trusting) God in the quietness.

Laurel :)

Has God brought you to a place of nothingness? Be still and know that He really is God. When this happens, your nothingness will be turned into something you will value for the rest of your life.

Tessa said: Thank you for this post. I completely agree that living a life that is completely in God's hands is the greatest joy.

It is exciting and breathtaking. It is complete surrender to the One who knows it all and has the most amazing plans for us. I have been in state of stillness for a long time, waiting for another child ... and I know that when God reveals His plan for us ... we are going to be left speechless!

Comments Anonymous said: Maybe God is speaking to you. Maybe he's telling you that you deserve to rest awhile. :) Ellen Karen said: This spoke to me too. Thank you for sharing. I have been in this position since February and have wondered what God is trying to teach me. I spend time trying to figure it out but I have started to realize, even before this post, that I am NOT supposed to figure it out. I simply need to let Him BE GOD. This post helps cement for me that I need to be quiet and still.

Ashhog said: Thank you so much for this. This is where I am at too. I may post this on my blog also. Thank You!!!

Holly said: I love your faith Amy. Faith says "even though I cannot see with my physical eyes, I will believe. Even though I cannot hear with my physical ears, I will believe. Even when I cannot sense the Lord's direction or get a clue what He's working on, I trust that He IS working and it's all for a good purpose...so I will believe and wait on Him." He has so much for you beloved.

Love, Holly

fpatlan said: Thank‐you Amy...that is just what I needed to hear also...like many others.

Blessings to you and your whole family.

Carey said: Thanks, I needed this!

Andrea H. said: God will speak sooner or later. I am glad you are waiting on him. Yes, I have been in that place of nothingness and it seemed it never ended but it finally did.

Lisa H. said: You did it again! Hit me RIGHT where I am. Thank you!

Lisa H.

PS. It helps a little to know I have company! :o) Lisa H. said: You did it again! Hit me RIGHT where I am. Thank you!

Lisa H.

PS. It helps a little to know I have company! :o)

5/26/2009 9:22:00 AM

The most relaxing of days...

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. ~ Mark Twain

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Comments Doreen said: Where did you guys go...looks like fun!! i just got back from buffalo . a little behind..hugs Laurel said: LOVE the pics!

I had just shown 3 of my younger children your post (above) about poverty, and when they looked at these pics, they noticed the shirt you were wearing, "It's Not About Me". My 12 year old daughter, upon seeing the picture of the mansion, had just told her younger brothers, "They only think of themselves." So, she thought your t‐shirt was "cool".

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mama of 13 Debbie T said: Looks like perfect memories to me! I love those moments. DebbieT Sarah Dawn said: Delighted to meet you! Just found your blog, smiling from ear to ear. The pictures you shared blessed my night with laughter, joy, and the simplicity of childhood. As we begin our adoption journey, I know I will find nuggets of encouragement and hope over here. I'll be back.

Blessings from this missionary mommy, Sarah Dawn Andrea H. said: yeah I have to project hopeful tshirt. So glad you were able to get away for the weekend.

Bonky's Mom said: okay...LOVE these pics and it makes me miss you even more!

The one of Trav and K...in the air...SO stinkin' cute!

Love you all!

Angela H said: Gotta love Project Hopeful!

Holly said: Fun! I wanna be YOUR neighbor!

Love the shirt. :) Blessed Mom of 8 said: Ha ha ha! I giggled out loud when I saw your tank! Oh don't I know it!

Your family is so precious! Awesome photos!

Love you!

Jill

5/27/2009 10:22:00 PM

How will we be remembered?

"We are the first generation that can look extreme and stupid poverty in the eye, look across the water to Africa and elsewhere and say this and mean it: we have the cash, we have the drugs, we have the science‐ but do we have the will?

Do we have the will to make poverty history? Some say we can't afford to. I say we can't afford not to." ~Bono

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Because where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:21 Comments soontobemomof9 said: AMEN! My prayer, to remember this in every penny I spend. And to make a difference in every way I can!

Shonni said: The pictures really do say it all! Thank you for posting this! I pray that the LORD continues to moves us all to seek HIS heart and abandon ourselves to Him. Milk Mama said: It really puts things into perspective, doesn't it?

Sean and Lisa said: Heartwrenching, eye opening, and so real.

Thank you for this poignant reminder of what really matters and how all He asks of us is to follow Him and His plans are always the best.

Doreen said: Amy .. Awesome and so real Amy... i may have to share your message on my blog!! This is something we all need to be reminded of!! ?MomOf4? said: Such an amazingly powerful post! darci said: thanks for showing those amazing, powerful pictures. what sickens me about myself is how quickly and easily i can 'forget'..and get right back into my me me me little life, of comfort and ease.

Sarah said: Thank you for this Amy! Very powerful and great reminder!

Bethany said: Thank you for sharing this quote and these images. I feel so fortunate for everything that I have, try not to consume to much, and my heart breaks for those who don't have enough. ajc4ever said: Wow...I came over from "where laughter lives."

This was a powerful post. I don't drive a fancy car, mainly shop out of need only, have a small‐by‐American‐standards house, rarely ever eat out‐and never at some place as fancy as what was pictured and def. don't have a lot of money but still...I can't help but see from pictures alone how blessed we are. My goodness...we've never gone hungry for even a day. Thanks for this...

James 1:27 Family said: Thank you for this post. I confess that I look around what I have and want for more. Jesus, please forgive me. I have so much.

I was just reading Matthew 6 with my 7 year old son yesterday as he was struggling with our foster baby leaving.

We can get distracted so easily. I strive to remember my heavenly treasures every day.

Your family is amazing and a huge blessing to so many other families!

Love in Jesus, Amy :)

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Jman's momma said: that stupid comfort zone ‐ I HATE IT!!! It is so easy to go back there especially when you are surrounded by people who thrive there and have interest in stepping out ‐ even in our church.

Taylor said: that was amazing, seeing the contrast between our world and theirs. I would love to rescue every child there

Bethany and crew said: I thought I just posted a comment, but it isn't showing up...sorry if this is a repeat!!

You post is powerful‐ I hope that God uses it to remind us of just what ‐who‐ truly matters in His eyes.

I pray that this touches the hearts of many‐ it has touched mine!!

whenpigsfly said: Powerful post Amy, and so sadly true...............I know so many who "can't afford" to address "the least of these" yet they daiy address and embrace"what moth and rust corrupt" and I see that mentality so quietly try to creep into my own justifications, rationales and decisions. I pray FORBID IT LORD! Thanks Amy Linda at www.smithsoup.blogspot.com

Hope said: Beautiful post!!

Bethany and crew said: What a powerful post‐ thank you for allowing God to use you to help the rest of us remember what ‐ who‐ is truly important in His eyes.

I pray that this touches the hearts of many today‐ it has touched mine.

Recovering Noah said: Sniff, sniff. Will you quit blogging about this stuff so that I can go back to my comfortable life?

Ignorance is bliss, you know.

Thanks for reminding us what's really imporant.

Love ya!

Leslie

The Gobble's (Lanetta) said: AWESOME post... exaclty what my heart is crying!!! Great post, pictures...

Kathleen said: Great post and I have to tell you these are my daily thoughts. What really do we need? what more do I need to take? It is time for us to give and give and give....

Praying for your family and your adoption. Praying for your journey with Ahope...

Michelle Riggs said: Thank you, Amy. It was just what I needed to read. I linked it to our blog and posted some pictures of Abby and Kaden.

Miss you guys.

Andrea H. said: Bono is amazing. So true. We and most of other countries are so rich, if people could only see that and even cut back a little bit and give "something", what could Africa and other countries look like.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: That was awesome!!!!!!!!!!

How pathetic and sad is that!?

That just burns me up inside and I pray others will open their eyes.

Love you!

Jill

Chantelle said: In my favorite book of all time (Revolution in World Missions ‐ FREE at gfa.org, and NOT about missions as much as about perspective)the author says that once he moved from poverty striken India (where he never owned a pair of shoes until he was 14 years old) to AMERICA, he had to force himself to DAILY pray "Lord, break my heart with what breaks YOURS."

I try to pray this often, but what a powerful reminder. THANK YOU Amy.

Sarah Dawn said: The pictures, powerful! Thanks for reminding me today why we have laid down it all, for His glory. You have a real mission field here, your words are reaching the nations, our nation, and proclaiming His truth.

Hugs from this missionary mommy, Sarah Dawn

Laurel said: Wonderful Post! Very moving!

Laurel :)

Alison said: What powerful pictures. Especially the one of the malnourished little guy. It breaks my heart ‐ I know he is just as special and wonderful as my little boy.

Amy said: That post put a "thud" in my stomach. ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: Awesome post ‐ thank you!

Live to love and laugh said: We were just talking about this last night. How sad it is that so many have so much and are unwilling to give to others.

It is an eye opener.

Cindi

5/30/2009 7:50:00 PM

Holly said: Amen. I pray the Lord will direct many many people to this post.

Open our eyes Lord...and our fists as well.

Conversations with a 2 year old

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Are These Kids All Yours? said: That is GREAT!!!! Sounds sooo familiar!

Me- "Kaden, what would you like for lunch today?"

Kaden- "A 'dot dog' please" Me- "Kaden honey, I know you love hot dogs but you really need to eat something else besides hot dogs all the time."

Kaden- "Um, a 'dot dog' WITH ketchup?"

Jman's momma said: THAT BOY IS... cute adorable precious did I say adorable?

~ anne Sarah Dawn said: Simply delightful, and that smile, it must melt your heart each and every day.

Hugs from this missionary mommy, Sarah Dawn Tessa said: My son used to call them "dot dogs" too! Precious memories! He is such a cutie ... that smile just melts my heart.

What a smart guy too!

Andrea H. said: What a sweetie. Seems to be my little ones favorite food also and I feel so bad feeding them hot dogs.

Comments Milk Mama said: LOL My daughter is 2 1/2 and she also asks for hot dogs ALL THE TIME! Just an hour ago, she went to the fridge and got out a package of hotdogs and said, "I hungwy. I hotdog! I hungwy!" She wasn't hungry. She had just eaten. She just LOVES hotdogs!

5/30/2009 8:00:00 PM

Cool place to shop

Doreen said: too cute!!

I've had several people ask me about this shirt...

got2havefaith said: At least he added a vegetable, even if it is in liquid form. Your family is beautiful.

Phyllis said: LOVE that precious smile!! Hey, has anyone told you what a cute little guy you have :‐) Phyllis Rhonda said: That is too funny! He has one of the cutest smile I think I have EVER seen...just precious!

Rhonda darci said: i burst out laughing at this. my skylar (9 now) LOVED only hotdogs..and would actually use the hotdog to scoop up the ketchup to lick it off. too funny. your little guy is such a cutie patootie!

Anonymous said: WHEN ARE YOU GONNA GIVE ME THAT KID?

He's so stinkin' cute!

BonkLand www.morebonkiesplease.blogspot.com

You can own one too if you go here: http://www.projecthopeful.org/store.html I also bought one of these totally cool necklaces (below) that can also be found at the Project Hopeful store.

Pattie said: It's all in the name..My Kayden (4) is all about PB& sometimes Jelly. I just break it all down to he see's Peanut butter like O2 in his world...At some point it all changes so I let him but I still keep trying to switch it up a knotch.

Love the post you have 1 cute Kaden

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Cool stuff‐ GREAT cause!!

Comments Carolyn T said: YAAAAAAAAAAAY!!!! Thanks for sporting the PH wear!! I don't get on blogs enough to see this stuff!! Your family is GORGEOUS! Mommyto3andahusky said: what a cute blog! :) Andrea H. said: Yeah I bought it too. I actually have gotten a lot of compliments on the shirt. But then when I told them what project hopeful was all about, they looked so dumbfounded.

But that's okay, at least it gets the conversation going about HIV. I got the other necklace with the hand and it looks so down to earth.

5/30/2009 8:38:00 PM

What makes life so sweet...

Tonight was Travis's senior prom... one more of his 'lasts'.

Seems to be a lot of those lately, kind of hard for this mommy's heart to take.

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That it will never come again is what makes life so sweet. ~ Emily Dickinson Comments One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: You do NOT look old enough to have a graduating senior. Miss you and love you.

Doreen said: A huge Congratulations Travis ... and many blessings to you in your super bright future of an adoption attorney!!! Beautiful pictures Amy.. !! got2havefaith said: How handsome! And you got the teenagers to agree to a "photoshoot"...wow. Amy said it well, here's to many "firsts".

Phyllis said: What great pics of those beautiful kids!

Phyllis Amy said: Hope they had a great time! Though it is one of those "lasts" now you have many "firsts" coming your way in the next phase of life. :) Melinda said: Love the pictures Amy! Such a handsome guy! I can't imagine how hard it is to see your first born graduate and leave home for the first time, but I think you have done an awesome job and he will do great!

Rhonda said: Those are REALLY good, Amy! I hope that had a nice time!

Miss you guys!

Rhonda Recovering Noah said: Awww, those are great pictures, Amy.

You sure do make beautiful babies! (And I'm talking about the youngest three, too!) :‐) Blessed Mom of 8 said: What beautiful photos Amy!

Praying they had a wonderful, blessed and safe time!

Love you, Jill

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Anonymous said: AWWWW....they look great! Hope they had a great time!

Heather Andrea H. said: Those are beautiful pictures. I especially love the last one. You must be so sad your first born is off to college but at least he is not so far away like on the other side. ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: These are great pics! I'm so happy that the kids played along for all of these cute poses. I hope they had a fun time at prom :) Sarah Dawn said: What beautiful pictures, what beautiful memories.

Anonymous said: GREAT PICS! Can't wait til those are HSU dances he's going to! :)

BonkLand

Travis's High School Graduation...

Tina said: Beautiful! My son graduated In 2007 and it was so hard to see this part of his life come to an end....

6/14/2009 9:41:00 PM

One day when we look back...

This past couple of weeks have just flown by. We had lots of family coming in for our graduation celebrations. Not a lot to say here because the pictures say it best... lots of laughs, lots of hugs, tears of joy and precious memories that we will cherish forever.

Mya's Kindergarten Graduation

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At the Graduation party...

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Mya, Addisyn, Aleigha and Kaden

Sydney and Ali

Me, my sisters and my dad

My mama and me

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Debbie, Keegan, Mya, Aleigha, Jenny, Addie, Sydney and Travis

Cayley, Addisyn and Tyler

Keegan, Addie, Raegan and Sydney

Mya, Tyler and Aleigha

Addie, grandpa and Sydney Aleigha and grandpa

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Susarah said: hey Amy great pics! check your hotmail : ) Susarah Chantelle said: Congrats to you ALL!!!!

Andrea H. said: Those are some really great pictures. You and hubby look way too young to have someone graduating.

Beautiful family. I can't imagine all the fun you had with all the people coming to visit.

Recovering Noah said: Sniff, sniff. I can't believe Travis graduated from high school. Does that make us old??

Those pictures are GREAT!! Amy, you get younger everytime I see you. Seriously, you could pass for Travis' slightly older college girlfriend. You look 22!

Leslie :‐)

Travis and grandma

Are These Kids All Yours? said: :) I love the pics...family is the best!!!

Rhonda said: Those are so good, Amy! Looks like some great memories were made! Congrats to Travis and Mya! Miss you all!

Rhonda Jennifer said: Great pictures! Congrats!! :‐) Blessed Mom of 8 said: Oh Amy! Those are awesome photos and I know even better memories!

Travis we are praying that you will open your eyes, ears and heart to all that God is calling you to walk in!

May He guard you and keep you all the days of your life!

Blessings and Love, Jill

So proud of you Travis!!! Now go change your world... Joshua 1:9 ...Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Comments

Debbie T said: Congrats to Mya and Travis on their graduations! Love all your family pics, Amy! Aren't those big family gatherings the best?? Hugs!! DebbieT

Room For More said: GREAT pictures! One again...making me jealous I wasn't there. : 0

I can't wait to see what God does in Travis!

Love you all!

6/16/2009 4:08:00 PM

Doreen said: your right .. the pictures say it all ... lots of family love and happiness!

Introducing...

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Amy you look so great!

The newest member of our family‐"Sport".

Anonymous said: Loved seeing the pictures and loved the week we got to spend with all of you. I still have to keep back the tears when I think our little Travis is now going to college. Love you all.

Mom and Dad

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but, as a rule of thumb it has worked great for me for potty training my Dog, as well as helping my Mom and brother with their dogs. As for poop: Always first thing in the morning, 10‐ 15 minutes after eating, and before bed. Although now that she is 3, she almost ALWAYS goes on our walks in the evening.

SOmething about walking just helps her go. So if she hasn't gone and you don't want an accident, try going for a 5‐10 minute walk (taking some baggies with you of course!)

I know you didn't ASK for help but, hopefully this will help.

Oh, I wish I could snuggle her and smell her pupppy breath (I know I'm weird but, dog breath is gross and puppy breath, to me, smells good) Rhonda said: So cute! Walt wants a dog so bad. We just can't do it right now in a rental house!

Recovering Noah said: Eli and Nandini are in love with the photos of your puppy. I guess we'll be coming over sooner than you thought. ;‐)

P.S. Do you still have Mikayla?

Charlotte said: She's really so cute.

She is going to like hot dog also as kaden. brandyleewindham08 said: Just Precious...and hairy and a big handful! I'll be praying that you get her house broken soon. :) Chantelle said: oooooooooh! SO CUTE!!!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Cute, cute, cute!

We are still working on that with our puppy too!

Love and hugs, Jill Anonymous said: Our dog is named sport too!

Live to love and laugh said: What a doll. Good luck on the potty training! Glad it is you and not me!

Cindi

6/16/2009 6:15:00 PM Isn't she cute?"(Now if I can just get her house broken!)

Making progress

Comments Doreen said: OHHHH VERY CUTE!!! congrats on your new puppy...

Violet said: She is ADORABLE. Oh, makes me puppy hungry!

GOlden Retriever yes?

Ok, so invaluable tip when I was potty training my pup: They can hold their pee for the number of hours they are in months.

If they are 3 months, then they need to go every 3 hours, 5 months, 5 hours. Obviously not exactly the same for EVERY dog

Kaden: “Mama, I’m hungry" Me: “How about a banana buddy?”

Kaden:”I want a hot dog!”

Me: “No Kaden, no hot dogs” Kaden: “I want chips!”

Me: “No Kaden, no chips either” Kaden: I want a banana!: Me: “That's what I thought." :0)

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Comments Room For More said: I love that kid!!! You really should give him to me! :) Bethany said: So darn cute!

Amy said: Too cute. :) Sarah said: How cute!!! You are such a great mom!

Rhonda said: That is so cute! He just makes me SMILE! Recovering Noah said: I can't believe how grown up he looks in this picture!!! Too cute!

Leslie Andrea H. said: Go Kaden, I am so happy you are eating a healthy banana! ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: I'm sure the chances are slim to none, but could I be first on the list to inherit this kid if you ever tire of him? He is so irresistible!!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: he he he!

love this type of conversation!

he is precious!

love and blessings, jill

With the kids all out of school I am sort of feeling like a short order cook. I made this yummy breakfast today though and they all gave it a thumbs up! Way better than those expensive breakfast cereals. Dutch Baby Pancakes9 eggs, well beaten1 1/2 cups flour1 1/2 ts. salt1 1/2 cups milk Beat eggs thoroughly and add four and salt. Continue to beat and add the milk while beating. Pour into a well-buttered pan and bake for 25 minutes on 375 degrees. Serve topped with bananas and strawberries and dusted with powdered sugar.

Comments

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love his smile!!!! That sucks me in every time‐ a great smile!!!!

6/18/2009 11:42:00 AM

Dutch baby pancakes

James 1:27 Family said: This looks so delicious. Thanks for sharing! We only had 4 eggs so I had to make a store run and I'm hoping to try it out tomorrow!

I also wanted to tell you that your family blesses me so much.

It's weird to say since I've never actually met any of you. I just think you all totally rock! Through ups and downs, you all seem firmly grounded in joy. Glory to Jesus!

And one question that I've had for months is "How do you look SO young?!?!?!"

Many Blessings to the Blocks!

Amy in Atlanta Amy said: Some of the kids wanted "breakfast" for supper so I made your recipe. They loved it! Thanks for sharing it.

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Susarah said: I love this post and thanks for the recipe. I have been feeling like that too and having dutch pancakes for dinner, just made me a cooler mom. THANKS!!!!!

ability to swallow/eat. Now he is much better and slowly eathing things but has no appetite, we are trying to get him to eat more by making yummy things).

Chantelle said: Sounds Yum! (but I'll try it with syrup) ;)

Pattie said: That looks really good. I think I will make that for my family tomorrow morning. Thanks for the Idea

Hannah said: In a Finnish household, this would be called Krupsu (spelling is probably totally off). It's one of our families favorites. Getting it to be non‐lump ridden can be difficult, but it is SOOOO yummy!

6/20/2009 10:25:00 PM

Recovering Noah said: How can I possibly talk about the pancakes when I can't get over how beautiful Aleigha looks in that photo??

Amy, that child is stunning!!!

Oh, and the pancakes look good, too. ;‐)

Life to the fullest 18 years ago today I met the man of dreams. He was coaching my nephew in baseball and I had come to watch him play. I had no idea that day as I made my way to the baseball fields how much my life was about to change. Life is so awesome like that… you never know what is around each corner and you never know what amazing things might happen next.

Jen said: My kids LOVE this recipe too!

Andrea H. said: Have to try that. Thanks for sharing.

Teresa @ Grammy Girlfriend said: looks yummy....I enjoyed reading your blog

Love it when I have time to do blog hopping...I always enjoy finding new blogs!

This month I am posting on our Disney trip.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Yummy! I'm about to stop feeding our family cereal ‐ YIKES they are costing us a small fortune!!!!

I can make this vegan for us and gluten free ‐ YUMMY! I'll let you know how it turns out!

Thanks for sharing!

FYI ‐ even if you dont' win the make‐over I will do it for you!

Only if you want...no worries if you want Danielle to do it :)

That's what friends are for!

Love you, Jill Joy said: That is one of our favorites too ‐ but I toss everything in the blender. We top ours with berries and whip topping for a special breakfast. It is our traditional 4th of July breakfast w/blueberries and strawberries and whip cream.

Laurel said: We eat Dutch Babies, but I've never heard of topping them with bananas and strawberries. Yummm...

We have 13 of us living at home right now, and we NEVER eat cold cereal. Let me know if you need any other big‐family breakfasts. My kids LOVE Baked Oatmeal. (This is NOT your regular mushy oatmeal.)

Laurel Violet said: mmm....sounds YUMMY. I will have to try this, I bet I can even get my Dad to eat it ( he had throat cancer and lost the

Yet 18 years ago I don’t think I felt quite so optimistic… It was a time in my life when sadly I was hurting, and I was lost. I was trying to find my way in life, figure out who I was, and struggling as a single mom. I always knew there was a God- but I definitely wasn’t living like there was. I had absolutely no personal relationship with God and I am not even sure if I knew how to begin to do so. As I said, I was lost- in more ways than one.

While our story is long and there is so much I could share- so many ways in which God helped me to grow, so many ways in which He helped me to heal. The one thing that keeps coming to mind tonight- perhaps because tomorrow is Father’s Day- is what an amazing dad Todd has always been from the very beginning. I remember when we first started dating I would sit back and just watch Todd with Travis. I remember thinking there was no way anyone could ever love my son enough- no way anyone could ever love him as much as I did. I remember watching… and waiting… thinking surely I would one day catch a glimpse of him not loving my son like a biological father would… But you know what? That day never came. NEVER.

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Audrey said: Such a beautiful post. Your story is a lot like LaRue's and mine. He took my child as his own and never looked back. I think that he honestly forgot along the way that she wasn't always his. The one thing in this adoption process that I have never questioned is whether or not we could love enough. I have already witnessed that kind of love in action.

Praising God for bringing you two together and for the many blessings yet to come your way.

There was never one single time that I ever saw Todd love or treat Travis any less because he was not his biological father.

And that, made me fall in love with him even more. Yet even more than that- I knew in my heart I too wanted to love a child one day that did not come from my womb. And from that, God began to grow my passion for adoption.

As I think back now on those thoughts I find them so foreignso odd. Of course you love your adopted children EXACTLY the same as you love your biological children… Yet back then it was just the beginning of all that the Lord had to teach me. It was just the start of the growing I would do, the changes that would take place inside of me, and the beginning of my walk with the Lord.

Joyful mom said: Oh my goodness, what an absolutely beautiful post! I love it. He has done great things.

Oh, and by the way‐‐you guys make a stunning couple :) Doreen said: That was beautiful writing Amy.. you and your husband are truly blessed .. i wish you both nothing but Happiness forever...

As I reflect back over the past 18 years I am in awe of God for every second He has blessed me with by having this man by my side. I did nothing to deserve that- and yet He allowed me this happiness anyway. And I thank you my precious husband for always supporting me, being patient with me, and believing in me. You are my best friend and from your example I have learned what real love is all about.

Brent Riggs said: He's the man of my dreams too... :)

Hah! Miss you guys... hope to see you soon.

Brent (Abby's Dad) www.riggsfamilyblog.com Suzette said: God is good to bless us with husbands that love Him and love His children in such a special way. Watching my husband grow in his love for adoption has been an incredible blessing. I'm so glad you also are blessed with such a husband!

Thanks for sharing. You two are beautiful!

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Praise God for HIS perfect timing and gifts to us! He knew what HE was doing!

His Hands His Feet Today said: What a beautiful couple you guys are!

JG said: What a beautiful story! I hope your family has a very special Father's Day! Andrea H. said: Hi Amy,

I love you. Thanks for giving us a glimpse of your live in your younger years on your blog. So many of your feelings you had back than I can so share with you prior to walking with God. I am so thrilled that God has chosen your perfect mate and father for you. You truly are ONE. You are simply beautiful as a couple.

Bonky's Mom said: beautiful post!

I love you guys so much!

Chantelle said: Well you got me teary eyed with that one, Amy!!

Thank you for sharing. You and your husband and a beautiful couple. I, too, am blessed beyond my wildest dreams with a husband I adore. I'm so thankful!

Happy Father's Day to you guys.

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. " John 10:10 Comments

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy ‐ awesome photos! You are both so beautiful inside and out!

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I too feel the same way ‐ how amazing that God knew exactly the kind of man I would need to be the woman He is designing me to be!

Love and blessings! Happy Father's Day! Jill Sarah Dawn said: Real love, real heart. Your words reminded me of the love God has spilled into my life through my hubby.

May both of you be drenched in His love today, Sarah Dawn

6/23/2009 6:03:00 PM

Summer LovinHad me a blast...

I absolutely love summer. I love having the kids home from school, love sleeping in, grilling out, picnics and spending time with friends and family. These past few days have been full of just that and we are loving every minute of it! On Monday we got to spend time with Kaden's foster family. We ABSOLUTELY ADORE them all. Actually, we consider them more than just friends- they are family now. Kaden gets so excited when he knows he gets to see them- well, actually we all do. Talk about precious people. Truly, the best. They will always, always have a special place in our hearts for loving Kaden before we even knew he existed. There is no way we could ever thank them enough. WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!

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And then today the Daddy surprised us by taking us here...

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denie said: love all those brown bodies. i too have a brown baby and she is just luscious. mmmmm. bless you all! would love to hear your whole story.

6/25/2009 7:51:00 AM

What He can do

It was the pefect day- nice and hot and full of fun!

Comments The Pelhams said: Where is that at and what is it called, I wanna go!!

Room For More said: Did you really have to post these and remind me that I wasn't there???

I GUESS I'll forgive you since you did take pics of a certain someone for me.

: )

Love you!

All that God requires of usis an opportunity to show what He can do. ~ A.B Simpson Comments

3 Blessings said: Your family is beautiful. I just found your site and added myself as a follower. I look forward to more beautiful pics.

Have a praise filled day!

Amy

Room For More said: And those faces are why we're still doing this...adorable!

Sean and Lisa said: Aaww! Beautiful, just beautiful! You are so very blessed indeed...

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Gorgeous!!!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Is this in response to my post from today? :0)

Blessed Mom of 8 said: AMEN AMY!

I was just writing about this very thing ‐ open yourself up to watch what God can do.

Let's bring Him our two loaves and watch Him feed 5,000!

Lots of love, Jill From a Mom who has NOTHING to give but knows WHO GIVES IT ALL!

Rhonda said: FUN!!!!!!!!!!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: So happy that you guys are having a relaxing summer :0) Blessed Mom of 8 said: Looks like fun!

Glad you got to enjoy some SONshine!

Hugs and blessings from another Momma who loves the SUMMER!

Jill

Michelle said: I needed to read this today! Such BEAUTIFUL children!!! Love those faces!!

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love all the pics. We adore our child's (our oldests) former foster family too! They are great!!!!!

Andrea H. said: Awhh, I wish I could enjoy some of that summer fun. I wish I could quit my job. Have a wonderful summer time. The pics are great.

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TheHappyNeills said: amen! we're living proof‐‐he provided $40,000 for our adoption when we had ZERO. we knew we'd have to trust him big time...silly us for assuming this meant $10k out of pocket (because that'd be about impossible) over a year and a half, hoping for $10k through donations and fundraisers, and taking out a $20k loan. he provided it ALL! praise be!

I ask myself constantly: When will you be spiritually mature enough to just follow? What is it going to take for you to just TRUST in His perfect plan??

Maybe tomorrow?

now, trusting him to move in the Kyrgyzstan delays!

Chantelle said: beautiful

Kathleen said: This has been a big struggle for me in my life. I have had to learn that even in his "silence" he is moving and working in my life. I am working on "letting go and letting God" move in his timing. This is not easy and I am finding it takes tons of faith and practice. Thanks for the encouragement...

6/25/2009 2:53:00 PM

Lost?

Dawnelle said: I struggle w/ this. I liked your post‐

(The following was taken from "Experiencing God‐ Knowing and Doing The Will of God" by Henry & Richard Blackaby and Claude King.)

Andrea H. said: I read that book back in 2006 and still remember so clearly. Great book and thanks for sharing.

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Is this in response to my post from yesterday? :0) Love, Convicted

"Often people approach knowing and doing God's will this way: They ask, "Lord, what do You want me to do? When do You want me to do it? How shall I do it? Where shall I do it" What will the outcome be?"

Isn't it typical of us to ask God for a detailed road map before we are willing to set out on the journey? We say, "Lord, if You would just tell me where I need to end up, then I'll be able to set my course and go." You might even decide you won't move forward until God tells you ahead of time the details of what you will face. But that is not the way God led people in Scriptures.

The Lord doesn't send us off like an errand boy. He intends to accompany us on the journey. He wants us to continually heed His voice and go with Him one day at a time. As long as we walk daily with Christ, we will always know where to be- right beside Him- and will always end up where He wants us to be.

Jesus did not say: "I will give you the entire plan."

"I will give you a road map."

"I will tell you which direction to go and send you off."

He did say, "I am the way (John 14:6).

Jesus knows the way; He is your way.

Reflection: Are you content to follow God one day at a time, or do you become anxious if you do not know where God is leading you in the future? If so, why is that?

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Yep, I am a ducks in a row kind of person...I have to admit it throws me off when I don't know the details. Praise God HE is gracious to me anyway!!!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Another awesome post ‐ great question!

I don't have a life plan, a five year plan and sometimes I don't know what I'm doing next week. That was the greatest blessing when I gave that all over to God!

Love and hugs, Jill Who is a happy homebody with her 8 blessings and praying on what comes next with our family!

JG said: Good word.

6/30/2009 7:50:00 AM

In the center of your world...

Comments jajbs said: After reading this post,I am convinced that I did not just "stumble" upon your blog, but was directed by the Lord!

This is something He has been speaking to my heart and you brought out some new things for me to ponder.

Thanks! amanda Audrey said: Could you get out of my head, please?? :)

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Love, Jill

6/30/2009 11:53:00 AM

Saying goodbye...

God‐centered Living: *Confidence in God;*Dependence on God, on His abilities and provision;*A life focused on God and His activity;*A humility before God;*Denial of self;*Seeking first the kingdom of God, His righteousness;*Seeking God's perspective on our circumstances;*Holy and Godly living.

Self‐centered Living:*Life focused on self;*Pride in self and personal accomplishments;*Self-confidence;*Affirming self;*Seeking to be acceptable to the world and it's ways;*looking at circumstances from a human perspective;*self and materialistic living.(taken from Experiencing God by Henry and Richard Blackaby) As I read over these lists it became so obvious to me how since I was very small child the world was filling my head with selfcentered living. And I have to admit, on a daily basis I still get them intertwined. As I look around me and see people struggling, see people hurting, see people lost- and they cannot understand why. We are naturally self-centered people, but in living that way we will never find true happiness. It is only when we make the decision -as in DECIDE to live EVERY DAYletting God be the center of our lives that we will finally have true inner peace and happiness. What are you going to choosing to fill your world with? For it is God who is working in your, enabling you both to will and to act for His good purpose. Philippians 2:13 Comments HollyAnn said: Such a struggle! I wish it came mre natural! I just e‐mailed a friend today and said, I HATE the flesh! This makes me want to start Experiencing God all over again even though I just finished it! :) Melinda said: Love this! I strive to have a God centered living, but it is a daily struggle. I have to die to myself like every hour. :) Thanks for the reminder.

Hope said: It is a daily decision isn't it?

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Once again ‐ AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!

A couple of weeks ago while driving home from church there was a man on the corner 'giving away' Golden Retriever puppies. They have always been my favorite breed of dogs- so good with the kids, loyal and just sweet. So, we sort of cavedand decided 'why not'. The kids totally feel in love with 'Sport' and her sweet nature and had so much fun with her in our home. Roll ahead 2 weeks and on Sunday morning we woke up to our puppy who had gotten sick all over her crate. We cleaning her up, took her outside to potty and had to head out to church. When we got home she could barely lift her head. I knew in my heart she was going to die but hoped I was wrong.

Literally a couple hours later she was gone.

Apparently she had been exposed to something called "Parvo" before we had brought her home. Puppies are especially susceptible. It is very contagious and often passed by sharing unclean crates with other dogs. Her little immune system just

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couldn't fight the disease and she died.

It feels like this past year my children have had so much loss. I hate that for them... hate to see their little broken hearts as they try to make their way through the sorrow and loss.

Loosing the sibling group brought to surface many feelings and now loosing their puppy has added even more to their pain. I guess if anything we are concentrating on how precious life isevery single day, and how important it is to love people (even puppies) with all your heart while you have the chance.

“To spare oneself from grief at all cost can be achieved only at the price of total detachment, which excludes the ability to experience happiness” ‐‐ Erich Fromm Comments

Phyllis said: Oh Amy, I am so sorry you all lost your sweet puppy. Hugs to all of you :) Phyllis Holly said: I understand how hard it is to watch our kids endure heartbreak after heartbreak. My kiddos lost a "sister" and then a puppy too :( God is good...I know He has many moments of Joy for ya'll.

Love you, Holly One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Crap! So sorry... We lost our dog to parvo when we lived in Commerce. It was not pleasant. I hate that you guys had to deal with that.

Chantelle said: Oh Amy. I am so so sorry. ((((hug))))

Doreen said: BIG HUGS to your family.. i am so sorry about your puppy... julie said: I'm so sorry. My heart hurts for your family.

Blessings, Julie

Audrey said: Amy I am so sorry. I know how devastating this kind of loss can be for kids. We had this experience, too. It breaks your heart to see your children grieve. Prayers for all of you.

Recovering Noah said: :( So sorry, Amy. I know that's really hard on kids (and moms, too).

See you guys tommorrow.

Leslie

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Our kids have had to face the loss of a sister, and loss of a dog this past year too‐ very hard, but they have really had so many questions about heaven....which has opened up so many doors for us. Still‐ it is sooo hard to see your kids hurt!!!

Sara said: Sorry for your loss. I know it is hard to look at loss as a way to grow. I just remember that God is tender and his mercies are new.

We are struggling with our 18 year old cat right now and whether to have him put to sleep. I get choked up just thinking about it.

Debbie T said: Amy, so sad to read about your puppy. John and I lost a puppy to parvo right after we got married ‐ no kids at the time but we were devastated. Hugs to you all! DebbieT Bingaling said: So sorry to hear of this additional loss...It is so hard to lose a beloved pet, even if you only had them for a short time. Big hugs to you, my friend.

The gFamily said: That is so sad!! I love golden retrievers too and I am so sorry that you all lost your puppy! :( Big hugs to all of you!!!

Pineapple Princess said: I am so sorry. I will pray for their little hearts to be comforted.

Room For More said: Oh my gosh. That is horrible. So sorry!

Hug your sweet kids for me.

Andrea H. said: Poor babies, they have been through so much.

But they will become strong from all of this. I noticed they even wear black dresses. I have to look up this wonderful book I have seen and email you later when I find it but its for kids that age and talks about dying.

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Hannah said: So sorry for your loss. :( I knew as soon as you said that she messed all over her crate that is was Parvo. 3 summers ago I hand‐raised a litter of 7 puppies and lost 2 of them to the virus. I very easily could have lost the whole litter, and am very thankful that we were spared that because now we have our fabulous Pe.

Blessings for you and your kids as you heal. :(

Hannah James 1:27 Family said: Oh, Amy... I'm so sorry that your little ones are going through so much. It's so hard for us to understand. I'm so thankful that God is not surprised by any of these things and that His promises are true and we can hold tight to that. We "lost" a foster baby last year who we were told that we would adopt. We told our boys that he was their new baby brother, the whole nine yards. Then when he left, not only did we have to grieve his absence, but our son who is adopted began to get scared that he might have to leave too. It was horrible but God is SO big and So amazing and He brought us through a very dark time and continues to heal our hearts. I know He will heal yours and the hearts of your sweet babes too. Many prayers and blessings to all of you!

Love in Jesus, Amy in Atlanta Suzette said: Amy, we also had to say goodbye to a puppy due to parvo a few years ago. It was very hard! Just make sure you don't have another puppy around for awhile due to the germs.

Your kiddos are certainly learning some hard lessons about life at an early age. I pray God pours His blessings down upon their little hearts as they grieve and upon you as you also bear these burdens. Hugs!

Suzette said: Amy, we also had to say goodbye to a puppy due to parvo a few years ago. It was very hard! Just make sure you don't have another puppy around for awhile due to the germs.

Your kiddos are certainly learning some hard lessons about life at an early age. I pray God pours His blessings down upon their little hearts as they grieve and upon you as you also bear these burdens. Hugs!

3 Blessings said: My prayers go out to your kid's. It must be hard so hard on them.

God's blessings, Amy Anonymous said: Oh, Amy, I am so sorry for your loss! Feeling so sad along with you! Will keep you all in our prayers.

Heather

7/5/2009 2:16:00 PM

One Nation UNDER GOD...

There is no greater gift....

I love the 4th of July~I love the picnics, the fireworks, sack races and dunk tanks. I love lying on the grass and laughing so hard my stomach hurts. I love the watermelon, the parades, block parties, and flags flying everywhere. But most of all, I love being an American‐ and the privilege I have to live in a country where I can enjoy all of these things and more.

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that but ine are always a holiday behind he hee...

BTW, we get Boss tomorrow!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy,

Your beautiful family is one nation under God and what a blessing it is!

I love the photos and my favorite is the toes too! How fun! I should have done that for the girls.

Glad to see you had such a wonderful 4th of July weekend!

Hugs and much love, Jill Bethany and 3sonsplus1 crew said: We are very blessed indeed!! And I'm LOVING those stripey toenails!!

Laurel said: GREAT pics!

Laurel :) James 1:27 Family said: Honestly, Amy, you live in paradise.

That parade, those kids, the pool, the pictures, the outfits. It's breathtakingly beautiful! I had forgotten that such places still exist. Just awesome! God bless you all.

Holly said: Your children just take my breath away. They are so beautiful and God has such good plans for them!

I've missed you!

Chantelle said: The quote is AWESOME and the pic of the feet is my favorite. Adorable! (and amen!)

Anonymous said: What a wonderful, fun day you had. We are so blessed to live in the USA. Wish we could have been there. I would have liked to try that water slide (if I could do it with all my clothes on), Ha!

Mom and Dad

7/8/2009 1:00:00 PM

Does this boy need a baby brother or what?

My God! How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy! ‐Thomas Jefferson Comments TracyC said: You have the coolest family having the most fun and looking gorgeous doing it all. Can I be you when I grow up?

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: How do you always come up with matching outfits to go with the holiday? I come up with

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Lisa said: How adorable! LOVE his tiara, and perhaps pink panties of some type?!?! LOL Too cute!

Hope said: Is that pink underwear peeking out from that tutu?!

Too funny! blessedmomto7 said: Looks just like our house LOL! Are These Kids All Yours? said: Oh dear...too cute!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: LOL! Another victim! Happens here too = when Daddy is NOT home!

I can't wait to share what Lexi is up to with you! Pray that I get it all set up to share!!!!

Love, Jill

PLEASE GOD???

Comments

Bingaling said: Aww...I used to dress my little brother up when we were kids, too. What cuties!

Chanda

Milk Mama said: LOL Yes he does! :D But I knew we did the same thing to our little brother (he had no brothers). Thank God for adoption, huh? :D Doreen said: very silly,, poor kaden.. yea , he needs a baby brother:o) Phyllis said: Oh yes, I think he definitely needs a little brother.

Or a sister...or both!! hehe Phyllis soontobemomof9 said: LOL... Maybe just a little! But he sure looks cute!

Vicki said: I must admit I am a blog stalker of yours. I am a friend of Marsha's and have always loved Caden and do enjoying watching him have such a wonderful life. We actually have two little boys that are free for adoption. If you are interested please feel free to ask, my email is lvgreenberg@aol.com, I know that is probably not the correct way to go about this but ohwell!

Vicki Valerie said: Soo cute! Logan has been wishing for a baby brother since Ava came home! Hopefully we will be able to start the process next year for a baby brother for him.

Holly said: I have to say a resounding YES. He does!

I will pray for one or two, how bout that?

7/8/2009 2:38:00 PM

Cool stuff- great cause.

How can you resist?

A cool friend of mine, HollyAnn, who also happens to have a really cool job as the executive director of Addy's Hope http://www.addyshope.com/ is selling these awesome t-shirts to raise funds to go on a missions trip at the end of the month to Liberia. (So don't wait!!) How awesome to support a good cause and be able to own one of these!! (you aren't going to find these on the rack at Walmart that is for sure!) I know as the mommy of a multiracial family we pretty much get stares every time we go out. I realize that when we chose to adopt children of a different race God was asking us to be a 'walking example' of His love for all to see. Some days though we are busy and don't have time to answer question after question-(as in "Are they all yours?" and "Are you a daycare?" ETC, ETC) So I'm thinking this shirt might just do the trick! ;0)

Ashhog said: That is SO cute!! :) Andrea H. said: Oh boy, yes he does. And why did they put a crown on him, he,he.

Kelli said: Hahaha! God bless him!

Audrey said: LOL ‐ the girls used to dress Austin up like a princess and they called him Austina. Good thing they have manly dads, isn't it?

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Want one?? Just visit http://stepsestablishedbyhim.blogspot.com/2009/07/fundrais ers.html Be blessed. Be a blessing.

Comments HollyAnn said: Thank you, sweet friend!

TracyC said: How cool is that?!

Andrea H. said: Got to get one... Just love it. What a statement with me being the token child in my family:)

7/8/2009 9:24:00 PM

"Once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God, who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls, KNOWS that we know, and holds us responsible to act."

Proverbs 24:12 Comments Phyllis said: Love it!!

Phyllis

"You've never looked into the eyes of someone that doesn't matter to God." ‐Bill Hybels

soontobemomof9 said: I love this quote, and this verse! Oh, and that picture just makes me say "awww"!

**** And I love your profile description! LOL... sounds alot like me.

Adeye said: Oh wow‐‐I absolutely love that!

Bethany said: Precious child‐ and wonderful quote, too. I want to adopt so badly!

Angela said: You are sooo right!!! We need to "look into the eyes of others" more often!! Really look and see what our Savior does...HIS child!!

His Hands His Feet Today said: AMEN!!!!

Valerie said: Amy, I love this quote. I'm going to print it off on some nice paper and frame it for our living room! natali said: that picture of him is worth a thousand words :)) Shonni said: Yes, may we all keep the in the very front of our minds, and never forget as we commit to living for HIM.

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HollyAnn said: Wow! Powerful! ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: yes and amen.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: ANOTHER AMEN!

Boom! Boom! Boom! You are just knocking them out of the ball park tonight sweet friend!

Love you!

Jill

7/11/2009 8:20:00 AM

GOTCHA!!!

Referral picture

(Taken from Aleigha’s Lifebook) July 11, 2004 I could not believe the day had finally come… I was really going to get to hold you in my arms. I had dreamed of this day for so long. We arrived at the hotel sometimes after 9:00 P.M.. I thought maybe you would be waiting in the lobby for me but you were not there. Daddy checked us into the hotel while I went and called Mama Clarita on the lobby phone. She had brought you to the hotel from the orphanage. She told me she would come down and get us and bring us to you in her room.

The few minutes it took her to come for us felt like an eternity.

I cannot tell you how it felt to walk up to the door of the hotel room and know that you were actually there, just behind the door. I heard you crying when we opened the door. I threw down everything that I was carrying and RAN to you. I picked you up and you immediately stopped crying. I cried instead.

You looked into my eyes and I held you tight, whispering over and over in your ear how much I loved you and how we would never be apart again. I will never forget that moment in a million lifetimes. God, as always, kept his promise, and the little girl, from the beautiful country of Guatemala, became my daughter as was His plan. I love you Aleigha Grace and I thank God for the privilege of being your mommy.

Home for just a few weeks...

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Today!!! Happy 5th Gotcha Day Aleigha!!

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day! Thanks for sharing. Aleigha is so beautiful and so blessed!

Stacey (Maggie's mommy) The Lowe Family said: reading ur blog makes me wanna adopt again. how crazy is that?! i haven't even had the baby i'm growing in side of me...slow down tonto, right?

very precious family, every one of them :) you're so lucky. thanks for stopping by. how did you find me?! sarah in the woods said: What a beautiful precious little girl!

And what a referral picture! I would think a picture like that would make the waiting even harder.

Kim said: Oh Amy! Thank you for leaving a comment on my blog so that I could find you. This post is just beautiful .... as is your daughter. I look forward to following along and getting to know your big and beautiful family! Love & Blessings, Kim Debbie T said: gorgeous, gorgeous girl! Miss Aleigha Grace, happy Gotcha day! You are a big part of the reason your momma and I became friends! :) Hugs Amy on your very special day!! Love, DebbieT Kara Grace said: what a beautiful girl...how blessed you must feel that God chose you as her mama! adoption is a wonderful thing!!!!

Liz said: Amy, This is the first time I'm commenting. Referred to your blogsite from the Riggs. This post as many of your others just seems to touch a part of my heart that is not easily touched. What is a "Lifebook"? Please know your posts are a great encouragement for me to keep on going each day! Thank you, Liz

Love you sweet baby girl. Thank you for these past 5 years- you are such a blessing!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy ‐ I LOVE the photos of her in the traditional Guat. outfit celebrating her 5th gotcha day! That is beautiful!

Enjoying the special memories with you!

Love, Jill

I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you. John 14:8 Comments jajbs said: She is GORGEOUS!!!!!

Doreen said: She is just gorgeous!! what a precious face...

His Hands His Feet Today said: What a beautiful photo‐ testimony of what LOVE does :) Hallelujah!

K

angie said: What a sweet and beautiful girl!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: That was a beautiful story. What is a lifebook? The pictures were awesome, girl!

Andrea H. said: Oh Amy, you just had me all choked up. I was right there with you at that moment and pictured it in my head.

What a beautiful girl and what a precious gotcha moment.

Anonymous said: We are so blessed to get to be Miss Aleigha's grand parents. She has been such a wonderful addition to our family and our lives. Love you all. Happy "Gotch" Aleigha.

Gram and Gramps

Phyllis said: GORGEOUS!!! Thanks for sharing and congratulations.

Phyllis

Bethany said: She is just precious! :) I can't wait to adopt‐ Gotcha Day is such a neat way to celebrate :)

Hope said: So sweet! What a beautiful girl!

Stacey Tate said: Amy ‐ Beautiful!! We celebrate our Gotcha Day next week. I get so emotional every year remembering that

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~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: She is so beautiful. . .

Holly said: Thank You God for entrusting these godly parents with this precious life.

What a gift!

7/12/2009 8:20:00 PM

Sneakin 'em in

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray cookie sheets with cooking spray.

Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Then add eggs, flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt, mixing well.

Stir in zucchini.

Fold in chocolate chips.

Drop by teaspoonfuls onto cookies sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. (do not over bake). Enjoy!

When your garden gives you a lot of these...

So that you can please these...

And God blesses you with a lot of these...

(And he didn't even know the zucchini was in there!)

You make a whole lot of these...

Comments sarah in the woods said: Thank you for this recipe. My daughter (7) asked what we were having for breakfast, and I told her I made some chocolate chip bread. And she replied, "Yes, but does it have any vegetables in it?"

Always trying to sneak in the garden produce. :)

Chocolate Chip Zucchini Cookies 1 Cup Butter, softened 2 Cups sugar 2 eggs, beaten 4 cups flour 2 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp salt 2 cups grated zucchini 2 cups milk chocolate chips

Doreen said: yummmm , i will have to try that recipe:o) Bethany said: That looks delicious!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Really? chocolate and zucchini?

This is a definite must try for me. I am intrigued. Maybe next you can come up with a way to squirt veggies inside a hot dog

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with a syringe. :0)

Hey thanks so much for your sweet comment on my blog site.

Love you friend.

we can give her- which I truly believes helps raise healthy, well adjusted, secure kids.

Hannah said: Mmmm...Zucchini cookies!

Blessings!

Hannah Anonymous said: I can just hear that little voice saying "Cookie Mommy". Keep filling that little mouth and tummy with those veggies Amy. Love you Kaden.

Gram Marcia Blessed Mom of 8 said: he he he! that was a precious post!

those sound yummy!

i praise God our children love everything He made! we are vegans and there are very few veggies they don't like ‐ even those they will eat.

love you! jill Andrea H. said: Oh that recipe looks so yummy. I have to try it. natali said: he is SO cute! and what a great way to get veggies in :))

The greatest thing about a Lifebook is you can’t go wrong. Each one is unique- just like your child. You can make it as fancy as you want or as plain as you want. You can include any details you have- without concentrating on the ones you don't know.

In our kids Lifebooks we include things like pictures of the orphanage, the beds they slept in there, the friends they had and the caregivers they loved. As in Kaden’s case- this includes his foster parents and foster siblings and the pictures his amazing foster mother took of him before we knew him. The girls Lifebooks have history of Guatemala, poems, quotes and pictures of our trips there. I also journal throughout it all, talking about the foods she tried for the first time, her first words in English, etc. There are maps of Guatemala that show the town they were born. There are copies of their passport and flight tickets home. There is any history we have on their birth families- including sibling information. I do have one picture of Aleigha with her birthmom and several with Mya and her birthmom and birth grandmother (since I had the opportunity to meet them on her pick up trip). I journal things her mother told me the day we met. Basically, any information I have to help fill that blank- help answer the unknowns- is what I do. I journal my feelings on the day I first saw their face, first held them in my arms. I tell them how we prayed for them and the many ways God made it obvious they were to be our children. I truly feel that a Lifebook is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your adopted child.

Here are some pictures of Aleigha and her Lifebook. :0)

7/13/2009 8:34:00 AM

What's in a Lifebook...

I’ve had a couple of people ask me about what a Lifebook is so I thought I would go into further detail here.

I will start by saying that my kids love their Lifebooks- and I can already tell at their young ages how much they mean to them. I am sure as they get older that will even become more so.

A Lifebook for an adopted child is like their baby book/scrapbook. You know the kind you can purchase that sort of have those “fill in the blank” questions, for example “Your first smile was on _________.” Or “You took your first step on __________.”

The thing is, with an adopted child (as much as you wish you had been) often times you were not there to see their ‘first smile’ or see them take their first step. So, those questions left blank often leave them with even more unanswered questions.

With Mya – she came home from Guatemala to us at age 4. I have never seen a picture of her as an infant and we have little information about the first 3 years of her life. Therefore, a Lifebook helps empower her to know as much of her past as 443

Comments Milk Mama said: This is beautiful!!!! I love that it says "this is where your story begins." It's perfect.

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Ah! now I get it. What a great idea. Can I hire you to do mine for me? :0) :0) :0) Doreen said: precious life books amy, your girls will treasure them forever... i made one for each of my girls and they also have memory boxes that i add to every year... heart at home said: I enjoy reading your blog. I am not even sure how I found it, but your wisdom and experience as adoptive mom has been a blessing to me. My husband and I are waiting to adopt. We live in Canada. We started out journey 15 months ago. We had one interview for a baby girl a few months ago, it was between us and another family and they choice the other family. It was very disapionting but we trust in God's plan for us and our family and know she wasn't meant to be our baby. The waiting is hard. Thanks for sharing the idea of life books and I will do this for sure when we finally get our little blessing.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: AWESOME JOB!

I made a similar thing on Kodak Gallery for each of our adopted children. THEY LOVE having it!

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Hugs and blessings ‐ Jill

Then you see it, a dirty, broken cardboard box and you bow your head thanking God for His provision.

natali said: that's really neat :)) i love scrapbooking, so i'll definitely remember this when the time comes for me to adopt :))

For you have found it‐ shelter.

Safety, if only for one night.

You slip underneath it, hugging yourself, vowing once again not to cry‐ because by now you know tears are a waste of your strength.

Bethany said: That's such a neat idea!! I'll have to keep this in mind for when I adopt! :)

Your eyes become heavy, despite the sweltering temperature.

7/13/2009 6:35:00 PM

As you begin to drift off to sleep you pray, hoping, dreaming, of a family of your own one day...

How much do you matter?

of a place where you will matter... to someone.

One of the greatest diseases is to be nobody to anybody. ~ Mother Teresa

Half away around the world is a family...

Image with me for a minute…

They are just sitting down to dinner together.

Right now, today… you are small and alone.

They are smiling and their laughter fills the room.

You are hungry and lost.

You have no home, no parents, and seemingly no future.

You are scared, and weak, from days without food. You have no where to go, no where to be.

They lift their heads and go back to the laughter and the joy.

People walk by you but they don’t even look your way. It’s like you are invisible, nothing.

You keep walking, your feet are bleeding and sore… and yet still you manage to cling to the small bit of hope, the little voice inside your head that says maybe, just maybe, one day things will get better.

Maybe one day ‐you will matter.

It is getting dark outside‐ inside your fear is growing.

Where will you go?

Your heart is beating faster, and your fear becomes over whelming, consuming your every thought.

Dinner is served and they bow their heads and they pray‐ thanking God for their many blessings… their home, their job, the food that is set before them.

They talk of their upcoming vacation plans, the lunch date they shared with a friend today and the movie they plan to see this coming weekend.

More laughter, more excitement, more.

As the leftovers are scraped into the garbage can and the table is cleaned up, hot bubble bathes are taken by all.

Evening settles in, and the family slips under their down comforters preparing for a good nights sleep.

Before turning out the lights, the husband leans over to kiss his 445

wife good‐night. She shyly smiles at him and begins to tell him that she has been feeling that perhaps God is calling them to adopt.

to get our children home from Ethiopia and have encountered some snags. Prayers are greaty appreciated.

Julie

The room grows quiet as they are both lost in their own thoughts… their minds are flooded with questions, concern, and then inevitably ‐fear.

Janice said: Thank you for allowing yourself to be an instrument, you have really touched my heart.

McMurrays said: loved this. . amazing!

I linked this post from our blog I hope that is okay. .

How could they manage?

Another child?

Why, they already have two!

Where would they put the child?

Who would share a room?

How could they afford to adopt?

Would they be able to take that vacation?

What would people think?

What if the child, you know, caused ‘problems’?

As their eyelids become heavy, they begin to drift off to sleep... and they think to themselves ‘surely not’.

jajbs said: I just found your blog and am thanking GOd for it!

This was such an amazing post. We adopted from Guatemala.

Our daughter came home in Oct. of 2007. BOth my husband and I desire to work in an orphanage fulltime someday. I feel a tug at my heart to adopt from Africa, but finances are standing in the way. We are still trying to pay off our other adoption debt and right now it just seems impossible. However, everything I read these days is really encouraging me. Thanks!

You just gained a new follower of your blog!

amanda

Surely God knows this is not convenient.

aamayna said: Wow, I just found your blog. Amazing!!!

Surely God wants them to take that vacation they deserve...

Kimmie said: If only His Church would wake up. I know not *all* are called to adopt...but there has to be MORE than there is NOW!

Too many excuses Church...there are orphans to whom God commanded us to care for. You KNOW He adopts us...He is the Spirit of Adoption...

seek Him, ask Him, don't wait, don't make any excuses, don't say *soon* or maybe in a few years, there is a child right now who needs you.

Won't you step out as His hands and feet and love a child who wants and desperately is praying for a family?

Waiting until October...when we have passed our required 9 months post our last Ethiopian adoption...to jump back in and bring another of our *family* home.

bless you Amy

Kimmie mama to 7 one homemade and 6 adopted

Surely he knows how busy they are.

They have plans and they have dreams.

As sleep overcomes them, the temperature in their master bedroom is perfect… and their pillows are fluffed to perfection.

Life is good for them, just as they had planned...

Because after all, they matter...

Too much...

to themselves.

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us. "‐ 1 John 3:16‐20

Hannah said: Beautiful. Thank you...I still feel a need to adopt again. darci said: oh wow, i'm bawling right now. thanks for this beautiful post, and for your kind words and prayers on my blog. darci

Comments

The gFamily said: I needed this post to boost me into action to do something more! After we brought Gillian home and Guatemala shut down, I think I shut down. That is awful to admit, but it is true! We definitely have room for more and definitely enough love, which is all that matters! Thank you for

julie said: That was so moving and truthful, even those of us who have a heart for aodption like our own comfort zone. I know I could do more.

Can you please keep our family in your prayers. We are trying

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Donna said: Beautifully said! Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts in such an awesome way that speaks right to the heart of the issue.

Delight in Him PS just found your blog yesterday too!!

this post! I love hearing God speak through you! Truly amazing!!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: So proud of you. So proud to be called your friend.

His Hands His Feet Today said: That was beautiful! I'm copying it and linking it back to you... annointed words my friend :) Love, K

Emily said: Wow! Thanks for some perspective!

I have linked this to my blog.

Jill said: Oh Amy...I came to visit by the prompting of Holly...oh, how glad I came to see you tonight! What sweet words and what conviction!

Thank you!

Jill from The Glen

Hilltrain said: Wow! Thanks for the timely reminder of how comforable and selfish we are. We NEED to know how others live so we will do something. Thank‐you for opening an old wound in my heart yet again.

Amy said: This a very thought provoking post.

Doreen said: love your thoughts... helps to put our life thing sna issues in perspective!!

Karin said: Amazing post! I came over from "Purpose Driven Life" and was very moved. I plan to post a link to your blog on mine.

Karin‐‐Mommy to 10 adopted treasures soontobemomof9 said: 1 John 3:16 ‐ 20 is a passage that is dear to me for it is what set my feet most strongly on this latest journey of adopting my 2 girls!

You brought me to tears... so true, so beautifully written. I praise God that what you wrote is not about me!!!! Thank you Jesus!

Kelly Mashel said: I just came via Kim's blog at His Hands His feet, and I love this post. So so true, but it doesn't even have to be on the other side of the world, it can be a child in their own backyard. We are foster parents and praying that we are able to adopt through the foster care system. If you'd like to see my blog, email me and I can add you, (it has to be private because of the pictures I post) You have many, many wonderful words of truth and encouragement here. I love it. Thanks for sharing.

Mashelhall@comcast.net.

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love it! Convicting in a good way! In a way that keeps us going. In a way that we need to keep sharing God's story of our family. In a way that makes us realize that when asked for the millionth time when it is inconvenient to us....to share what adoption is...why....what sacrifices God requires of us....Thank you for sharing this. I pray so many more Christians will stand up for God's Children!!!!

God's Not Finished With Us Yet... said: Hi Amy,

Read this post from Jill's blog. What an amazing story, but not just a story but a true fact for so many. It broke my heart!

I love, LOVE, the quote you have typed on your header image!

Following you! ~Sarah Melinda said: So powerful Amy! Just the kind of stuff that is on my mind every hour of every day. I am almost finished reading Scared by Tom Davis and it is so moving and powerful. Surely a must read if you want to be broken even more for the least of these.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy ‐ OK what in the world is going on with you lately ‐ whatever it is KEEP IT FLOWING OUT OF YOU!!!!!

I KNOW WHO IS AT WORK!

AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!!!!

I'm copying and linking to you!

WOW!

Love you ‐ from another Mommy whose heart is aching in Africa!

Jill

Adeye said: Oh wow‐‐what a beautiful post. I absolutely love it!

Holly said: Amy, did you write this?

Can I post it on my blog?

This hit the nail right on the head!

Audrey said: I am going to put this on my blog. I was struggling to find the words to express how I was feeling today and then I come over here to Amy's world and you have summed it up perfectly.

My heart is really aching today for our little boy on the other side of the world and my prayers this morning are for him and the next one. and the next one. and the next one?

Andrea said: Wow, just found your blog from AndreaH's.

What a powerful post!

Thank you

natali said: wow! i really love your post ‐ just how moving it is & the blinding truth in it :))

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Andrea H. said: You preach it my dear sister. I have tears running down my face and that dang book crazy love is still in my head and not helping to get any of these thoughts about crazy love for God out of my head. I tell you what... Changes are coming, even if I can't convert my whole family (only God can), but as for me, I know...

IN HIM Kim said: What a moving post. I pray it stirs hearts and moves readers into action!

Love & Blessings from Hong Kong, Kim

Our job is to say “Yes Lord”, your will be done, every single time He calls.

We soon began to realize though in order to be able to say "Yes Lord"- we needed to make some changes that would enable us to do more. Our focus had to come off of us- and entirely on Him. Our time, our energy, our resources- had to all belong to Him. We decided we would no longer say ‘you can have this and this God, but not 'this or this' as we had been previously doing. We realized we had been giving God our left overs. You know, the things that convenienced us- not the things that were hard, the things that weren’t popular, or the things that might hurt.

7/21/2009 8:24:00 AM Again, God made it clear He wanted it all.

Who am I? After I wrote my last post I have had so many comments and personal emails from people sharing their hearts and saying how much that post convicted them. That is why I love you guys all so much- I know so many of you truly do want to make a difference and that you really do care.

I wanted to say though that I never wrote that post to make anyone feel guilty. I wrote it during my devotion time because it was something that God was really speaking to ME about… and He has been for the past few years.

Once I saw what I saw in Guatemala and heard others adoption stories and experiences-it was too overwhelming- way to bigto continue to ignore. Something inside of me started to change. Material possessions became less important to me, my comfort became less important to me, my status, my pride, became less important to me.

Instead of constantly seeking more, God began to show me how much I truly had.

He somehow woke me up and made me see so clearly how I had fallen into the worldly trap. I knew we had a decision to make. He asked me if I was done living for things that really didn’t matter...big houses, new cars, vacations, impressing others- and instead, would I simply live for Him. While people around me were asking us if we were ever going to be ‘done’ adopting (as in they obviously thought we were crazy because the number of kids we had) we were telling God we would never be done serving Him in anyway He asked.

If God calls us to adopt 20 children- then who are we to say no?

Who are we to put a limit on God?

So, we sold our nice, big, new, spacious, comfortable housepacked up our family, and moved across the states into a home that was a lot less expensive and that needed quite a bit of work.

While we were busy working hard at fixing up our new homeGod was working hard at fixing up our hearts. He began to show us where our priorities were not lined up with His priorities.

As we cleaned out the dirt in our new house, he was busy cleaning out the dirt in our hearts.

As we were busy patching the holes in the walls, He was at work repairing our minds.

As we were busy pulling out the old, ugly carpet scraps, He was busy scraping out the ugliness in our lives.

And as we began to lay the new foundation in our home for a new bedroom for Kaden- God began to lay the new foundation of the path in which we were to take.

There are days though where I sometimes forget, where I still struggle and where I let my pride creep back in. I loose focus on Him and focus on myself and my desires. It’s times like that where I can gently feel Him pulling me back and reminding me of what/who really matters.

During my daily devotions is when He spoke to me and that is why I wrote that last post.

It’s so easy to forget, so easy to slip back into just being comfortable. And yet- that is exactly what I have begged God not to let happen.

I don’t want to forget… I can’t let myself forget- because there is too much at stake.

I refuse to let myself ever be ‘done’. Who I am to announce to God, the King of Kings that I am done serving Him in any way He asks? I don’t want to reach a certain age and decide I am done serving- that I have done my share.

I don’t want to reach a certain number of children that the 448

world see’s as acceptable and announce that we am ‘done’.

I will never turn my back on a child in need, a child God calls us too, simply because of a number that sounds too big.

And who am I to say no to God because we feel too old, because we are comfortable now, because we are finally able to take that vacation, because our kids are finally big enough to stay home alone?

3 Blessings said: This is so beautiful and inspirational. Thank you for sharing your story.

Blessings to you and your family, Amy

Not doing it.

Laurel said: Beautiful post!

For over 20 years we've been asked, "Are you done yet?" As you said, "No ... we will never be done taking care of children."

Our door is always open ... to young and old.

We don't live with a lot of material "stuff" (compared to many American Believers) ... but we are considering a move which will simplify our lives even further. We are looking seriously at the question, "What do we really need, in order to fulfill His calling on our lives?"

Keep sharing your thoughts!

Laurel :)

Adeye said: Oh my friend‐‐we have such kindred hearts! That is EXACTLY how we feel. EXACTLY. How I would love to meet you in person‐‐I think we'd have a lot to say :)

If the King of the universe sees anything in a sinner like me that could possibly be useful than I am more than honored.

I don’t know what the future holds, I don’t know if God will be bless with more children (we hope so) and I don’t know who they are or where they will come from. What I do know is that we are willing, we are praying, and we will go where ever God leads us... no matter what the cost.

Comments Nicole said: This post was more fabulous than the last one!

AWESOME! THAT is the way I feel as well! :‐) ‐Nicole www.bakerssweets.blogspot.com

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Oh precious friend ‐ HERE COMES THE BIGGEST HUG FROM THE EAST COAST STRAIGHT TO YOUR TX HEART!

I love you!

AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!

Be in prayer for us over what God is calling us to next!

MUAH! Jill

soontobemomof9 said: There are so many blog friends I want to lasso and move in next door to me! You are SO one of them! I like to think I can support this passion to live differently, make a difference, and follow my heart for the orphan even if NO ONE else on earth felt this way... but I am so glad I don't have to find out if it is true! :) You are an inspiration! Thank you for your gently spirit! And your courage in following the heart of God! Holly said: Oh Amy. Thank you for sharing that.

My heart is so full.

I know you didn't write your last beautiful post to make anyone feel guilty. I had just been having some conversation with friends about the need for orphan care versus adoption and after reading what you wrote, I anticipated that some would feel that it was a guilt trip to try to get "comfy christians" to adopt.

I do not believe we all are supposed to adopt, but we ARE all supposed to do something for the orphans and widows of the world.

And so many of us ARE called to adopt and miss out on the amazing blessings God has for us because of fear. The world says some of us are crazy. Adopting "foreign" kids, kids with medical needs, kids with HIV....good heavens, why would we want to do that? I honestly have had someone ask me that.

Anyway...you keep on keeping it real Amy. Thanks again for the reminder that it is a privilege to serve God in whatever way He calls us to.

Live to love and laugh said: So true my friend.

When God changes your heart you cannot ignore the calling.

You cannot play like you didn't hear.

It becomes too real to ignore!

Cindi

HollyAnn said: Amy, Thanks for sharing both of these posts. I am so weary! I am so ready to give up the battle on all fronts.

This is a reminder that God intends for me to fight...even in my weary times....I better get off this computer and get busy!

7/22/2009 9:22:00 PM

Oldie but goodie Someone recently asked me what my all time favorite blog post was that I had written. I decided to 're post' it here. I think the reason I love this one is because while I do try my hardest to always be authentic on my blog‐ at the same time I realize it is a blog that anyone can read and there are some things that you just 'keep in the family'. This one is for you‐ my blogger family. :0) Behind the scenes... (re posted from 6/08)My sister and I were talking this morning about “church face blogs” and how most people who blog do not always ‘keep it real’. I have a confession to make- I don’t always let you know what really goes on behind the scenes. Here’s the truth- I have my pride

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you know… and while even though it’s a sin- it’s pretty hard to just lay it all out there. It’s kind of like when you step into church on Sunday- like you are really going to admit you were just screaming at your husband in the car on the drive there to anyone. Nope, you are going to plaster that smile on your face, walk in that door and act like you’ve got it all together. You are going to greet each and every prominent person with a smile in your eyes and a skip to your step- because God forbid they find out you are not perfect. So, I am going to come completely clean here today and admit we are SO NOT perfect. Yep- I yell at my kids more than I should, my house is not always clean, sometimes we have cereal for dinner because I am too lazy to cook, and no I do not always like my husband. As a matter of fact, sometimes he drives me crazy just because he’s in the same room I am breathing my air.

So- just for you today- here is a look behind the scenes… because while it's hard to air your dirty laundry, I don't want ya all feeling bad about yourselves if you too don't have it all together.Normal Blog post: It was a boring, rainy day todaythe kids are hoping for something fun to do (besides the endless chores I give them). So SUPER MOM comes to the rescue!

Yet when that fun ended I came up with another idea to keep my little peaches happy... We traced ourselves and then the girls colored and cut them out. Aren't they just the cutest?

(Just what I need‐ double of them!)

After that was over‐ I actually gave them French Pedicures... even their toes are cute now!

And created this amazing go fish game all for free! (went out in the rain and found those sticks myself!) It was endless hours of fun...

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This is my teenage son Travis room... can I just admit to you that while tracing bodies and cutting out little fish I yelled up to him, not once, not twice‐ but SEVEN times to PLEASE clean up his room. He told me he did‐ and this is what I found....

Need I say more?

For lunch the kids actually made their own food! While creating this amazing lunch we worked together and talked about the importance of eating 4 servings of fruits and veggies a day.

This is a picture of the inside of our trash can... Yep you guessed it. Those nice little veggies we talked about being important to eat at lunch‐ guess where they ended up???

This is a picture of Mya on a time out. Not a happy camper, but this is what happens when we pull our sisters hair and disobey our mommy.

Sweet aren't we??

Now while all of this did truly happen... I'd like to take you BEHIND THE SCENES and let you know what also went on while I was capturing these precious moments...

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everything I do reflects you. I know my life will never be completely perfect until the day I stand before you face to face in eternity. Help me live the life I have now to bring you glory in all I do. Help me to look to you even in the small things‐ in the way I spend my time and the way I talk to my children. Your love tranforms me daily and I am forever thankful for that. I love you Lord‐ and that could not be more real.

Comments Chantelle said: LOVE THIS POST!!! natali said: I never read this the first time around either, b/c i've just recently began following your blog. But, I really like this post! It's really hard to air your dirty laundry, but you did a fantastic job at it! :))

This is my dumplin Kallan‐ in his underwear, he's STILL watching TV as I blog this. It's after 2:00 and I have asked him 15 times to go get dressed for the day. Maybe #16 will do the trick? (by the way, he has NO CLUE I even took this picture he was so zoned into the TV)

Dardi said: Okay, Amy, here's my first baby step into the blog world...are you proud!? lol I am all about the "REAL" stuff. How do you ever have real relationships if you are just playing make believe all the time!

Perfect timing to read this as this is how my day started: Alarm clock is randomly going off this morning at 5:40 AM!! I stumble around until I find it & turn it off. Finally fall back to sleep & end up sleeping until 9:00. Sounds good, right? WRONG!!! I hear a car door as I'm making the bed, look outside & realize with horror that my social worker has appt. with me for home visit today! Crap! Not only am I in my pj's still‐‐with no bra on‐‐ my little almost 2 yr old sweetheart that SW is coming to see is just getting up wearing her little mismatched ensemble that she put together last night with curly hair EVERYWHERE. Yep, & there's a big basket of unfolded laundry sitting in the foyer. It is what it is.........

Cari Bacon said: Were you the "fly on the wall" and acutally blogged about me? LOL....which reminds me...I need to get off the computer and go start the laundry! :) Shonni said: When I saw the plate with all those lovely veggies, I wondered if they would eat them all (LOL). Now I feel better (LOL again). One of our sons use to throw his veggies down the window well to show us how he "ate it all". We did finally find out though.

Thanks for this fun post this am. I may need to do something like this too. It is fun and so "real".

Oh and all the while I am in sitting here in front of my computer blogging... this is piling up.

Holly said: Yep. I still love you Amy. And I am still impressed that you came up with those cool ways to entertain kids, even if some were watching tv, pulling hair etc.!

You still rock!

I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Philippians3:1Heavenly father, everything I am, 452

Elisabeth‐ Truly Blessed said: Thank you, thank you, thank you!! I first want to say that I LOVE your blog (just posted a link to it yesterday)! It's so easy for each of us to fall into the "everyone else's lives are so perfect" syndrome‐ something a friend of mine and I were talking about today, actually. Thanks for being real and laying it out there for the world to see. Noone is perfect and I needed this reminder today.

In Him, E Milk Mama said: I love reading this blog. It's very uplifting. And this looks like it was a great day!!! :D Live to love and laugh said: Oh my I missed this the first time.

So glad things like this go on in homes just like mine.

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love that post‐ that is soooo my reality!!!!!!!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: i didn't get to read this the first time!

great post and i say AMEN to your prayer!

oh you are one patient mom ‐ there is no 2nd time in our home let alone a 16th ‐ yikes. i would have no hair or they would be on that couch with a grumpy face for hours!

love you! jill

7/23/2009 7:46:00 AM

Because of who you are (repost) (another repost from June, 08‐ cause they are so cute and I love them so much!) Because of who you are...

Travis, I have learned that God does not make mistakes and that even when things do not go the way you had planned ‐ God is IN the plans.

Because of who you are... Keegan, I have learned that the right road always leads to the right place…and because God is in the right place, everything else just falls into place...

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Because of who you are...

Because of you...

Addisyn, I have learned that it’s important to be the person God created me to be‐ a unique individual with my own thoughts and dreams.

Kallan, I have learned that true happiness lies in the little things in life‐ a hug, a smile, a bed time prayer.

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Because of who you are...

Because of who you are...

Mya, I have learned that God’s plans are always better than mine, and no matter how big the mountain I should never give up hope.

Aleigha, I have learned to never ignore my heart and that God is much bigger than I had ever believed.

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Because of who you are...

Thank you for being just the way you are.

Kaden, I remember to always look to Jesus first... because while I may not be able to 'save the world' ‐HE sure can!

Love, Mom Comments Sean and Lisa said: Beautiful, absolutely beautiful!

Kimmie said: Amy, what a beautiful post. Your love for your children and for God radiates from your pictures and words.

I love your photography...want to give me some lessons? ;‐)

Kimmie mama to 7 one homemade and 6 adopted ManyBlessings said: What a beautiful, beautiful post! Thank‐ you for sharing this piece of your heart with us!

Andrea H. said: Oh Amy, you made me cry. How special and how beautiful the pics are. And I can't even imagine what your kids have to say about you. natali said: your kids are all SO beautiful! And this post is too :)) Holly said: because of who YOU are AMY‐ I have learned that God is the healer of broken hearts and dreams. I have learned that Christ is the tie that binds our

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hearts together even though we have never met face to face. I have learned that there are beautiful Moms out there who are SOLD OUT for Jesus and living differently than most.

Because of who YOU are AMY‐ I have prayed more and believed for greater miracles.

Thank you!

Cari Bacon said: What a sweet blog! You have beautiful children. You know, our kids need to hear positive things about them like this because there can be so much negative around them from the world. Thanks for the reminder to love on our kids today!!

Tina said: Wow! They are very Blessed to have a mom as beautiful and loving as you :) Our children are our reflextion and you should be so proud....

Are These Kids All Yours? said: AWWWW.....I love it!!!!!!!!!!

heading down a path we never intended to end up on.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Ok, you are getting me more and more with every post! Bringing me to tears!

This was AWESOME!

Because of who you are Amy ‐ I grow a little bit more each day as a Mom, a friend and a daughter of the Most High God!

Because of who you are Amy ‐ I find myself longing to be in places I never dreamed I would want to go!

Because of who you are Amy ‐ I dare to lay it all down at His feet for the plans He has on building our family!

You see Amy ‐ you have touched my life in ways I know you never dreamed you would or could.

God has used your precious heart filled with the very same passion He has given me to encourage me to keep looking to Him! To lean on Him and to just be me!

Love you lots precious friend!

Jill I THANK GOD FOR BRINGING YOU INTO MY LIFE!

7/24/2009 9:59:00 AM

The Way (repost) There are times in our lives where we find ourselves lost…

We are not even sure how we got there or if there is a way out.

We are searching… looking...

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follow His word exactly. If we allow Him to direct our steps, He will not allow us to ever again loose our way. We will find rest for our soul and a whole new world will be opened to us. We will be changed at our root.

So we run into the arms of our savior- the one who loves us most of all.

For there we know we have found true happiness.

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and the door shall be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

trying to find a way out- a better way. We have tried every direction... ‐Money (yet once we spent it, it is gone) ‐Food (after we eat, we are still unhappy, and now we are over-weight which makes us even more unhappy!) ‐Entertainment (we tried laughing and having fun, yet we were still crying on the inside) ‐Popularity (It is here today and gone tomorrow. There is no lasting happiness in popularity)‐Our own strength (we tried so hard to prove to the world we were strong enough, cool enough, good enough and yet we were not).

All of those only bring tempory happiness. We see that now, recognize it- and long for MORE. But where do we go? Which way do we turn? Time is running short, we have already wasted years of precious moments in life, doing one mistake after another, trying to conquer and achieve things that have no value.

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

Comments Sean and Lisa said: Oh my goodness....he is such a handsome guy! I could just kiss those sweet cheeks!

I especially love the pic of him in your arms...poignant...beautiful!

Doreen said: precious post and pictures Amy.. darci said: thank you so much for your comments on my blog, for your prayers, for checking up on me. it means so much to me. we're hanging in there‐rather holding on to God for dear life. :) beautiful post, and such a sweet little boy. darci

And then we sense Him calling us, we feel him changing us… we hear His voice saying that no matter what happened in the past, we can choose to follow God today and be free from any guilt or shame. He promises that we will be successful if we 458

3 Blessings said: Great quote!

Blessings, Amy

Adeye said: How absolutely wonderful. What a sweetie pie you have been blessed with. Your words are incredible.

I just noticed that you have a Kallan‐‐I have a Kellan :)

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Wow! I love that. I couldn't agree more. We need to make that into a bumper sticker. What beach are you going to?

Anonymous said: I so needed this post today‐‐ Thank you!

Anonymous said: I so needed this post today‐‐ Thank you! soontobemomof9 said: I love the post too, but I had trouble concentrating on the words with such a cutie in every picture!

Sheesh... he is a doll! :)

~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: Amy, thank you for being such an encouragement. I really appreciate how you share your thoughts on your blog. You don't have any problem getting your point across :)

Andrea H. said: You got some serious blogging qualities.

Beautiful post and to put the icing on the cake you teasing with that handsome boy of yours. Incredible pics!

Adeye said: Oh my goodness‐‐ I LOVE that!

What a precious little boy too :)

natali said: i love this post :))

Shonni said: This was precious and I loved the photo's!

love2bmom said: Amen, Sister!!

Hugs,

Carolee

His Hands His Feet Today said: Love it!

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Great quote!!!!

3 Blessings said: Such a wonderful post and so true.

Blessings, Amy

natali said: that quote is SO true :))

Hope said: SO precious!!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: ANOTHER GREAT ONE! WOW!

AMEN!!!!

Love you, Jill

7/27/2009 9:30:00 AM

James 1:27 Family said: My husband and I were just talking about something similar on a long car ride this weekend. We were saying that Satan's greatest soldiers are really us believers who stand around and gossip and take care of ourselves only ‐ not the evil criminals int eh world.

So true! Makes me want to get up and do something.

Hope you all are well and blessed!

Amy Shonni said: yes!!!

7/31/2009 9:07:00 PM "The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing." ~Albert Einstein

"A faithful man will abound with blessings." Proverbs 28:20

Comments Joy Portis said: What a great post Amy! You always leave me challenged, convicted and encouraged! Love checking in on your beautiful family!

Blessings Joy

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This past week we had the blessing of getting to spend some time at the beach. I love the beach- and pretty much think it's the perfect vacation, all the way around, for a big family on a little budget. Cheap fun and oh so relaxing. I did have to occasionally remind myself though that we do not 'look' like your average family... because any time we go out in public I have to prepare myself for the stares and comments. (For some reason we just seem to attract onlookers -LOL). While we had several comments, it was nice when one man came up to us and told us that 'it was such a breath of fresh air to see such well behaved children' (yep I was so proud of my awesome kids!) Many people commented on how many kids we have (and we only had the youngest five with us) but the one question I am still trying to figure out was when this woman stood watching my kids on the beach for quite some time and then said to me "Are you a church group?" I just smiled and said- "Nope, we are just a regular old family-but we do love the Lord."

She smiled- but still looked confused. ;0) That makes two of us...

Anyway, thought I'd share a few of the 4,000+ pictures I took of my beautiful family- because they make me so happy.

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Comments Doreen said: Beautiful "happy family" vacation photos!!

Joy said: They are all so beautiful! I know you could just squeal with glee at how greatly the Lord has blessed you. I can feel how much you treasure your family through reading your words.

Andrea said: Love the pics! Your family is beautiful! We live near the beach so we have tons of beach pics as well.

Debbie T said: ahhh, love all the pictures of you and your precious family at the beach! Isn't the beach such a wonderful peaceful, fun place? I could live there and never tire of it. Where did you guys go? Hugs! DebbieT Phyllis said: Looks like a really fun and relaxing vacation. Great pictures of those gorgeous kids. I have to respectfully disagree with something you said...you said you're just a regular old family...the truth is you are an EXTRAORDINARY family!!

Phyllis Bethany said: Beautiful photos! I'm glad your gorgeous family had a great time :) soontobemomof9 said: I am scared to death of sharks! But I enjoy the lake. :)

Your photos are wonderful! Of course those adorable kids make it easy! :) Jocelyn said: I don't know why I've never commented before, but...

I adore your family and these pictures are amazingly wonderful. You‐ through your writing‐encourage me to push forward in the desires of my heart that I feel God is spurring me on to. I think that your family is amazing in their love for each other. And I think that your committment to adoption is amazing and that God has developed such an incredible heart in you.

With the different kiddos in and out of my home over the past 2 years it I have seen those looks, been asked so many questions... and you know what... I am so happy that it has become my "normal"... that my definition of a "normal" family has completely changed and that the box I had put myself in

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His Hands His Feet Today said: I love, love, love the first one!!!! but they all are wonderful!!! :) We get "are you a church group?" and "are you a day care center?" quite frequently!

Sometimes I'll say (if I'm feeling sassy)... "yes and we only take Asian and African American children." LOL! DUH!!!

(that "normal" box I had in my mind) has been blown completely wide open by God's perfect plan.

THANK YOU... I love your blog, your reminders of who we are in God and what we as believers have been called to.

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: The pictures are Beautiful, Amy. So glad you guys got to get away. I got quite a few comments and stares on our vacation too.

Laurel said: LOVE the pictures.

We haven't been asked that question yet. People just assume we're a Day Care.

:) :) :)

Adeye said: What FUN! I absolutely love, love, love the beach. I have lived there most of my life. Now adjusting to mountain life certainly has had its challenges. I'm learning contentment :) So glad you had such a stunning vacation.

Diana said: LOL. Lots of times we are asked if we are a church group, day care, field trip, etc... We have 18 kids, 11 bio and 7 adopted. I have been blessed to read some of your recent blog posts. May God continue to use both of our families for His glory and to bless, to leave a legacy of love.

Rhonda said: Loved the pics, Amy! Glad you were able to get away and enjoy the beach. It is great, isn't it? Loved our trip together to the beach! We need to do it again! I thought about you on Aleigha's gotcha day and meant to e‐mail you! Sorry!

Can't believe it has been 5 years! Love and miss you!!!!

Rhonda

darci said: you have a gorgeous family! such beautiful smiles.

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Adorable!!! Love those pics!!!!

sarah in the woods said: Looks like so much fun. And you do have a beautiful family.

Andrea H. said: I too love the beach so much. Your family is just so beautiful and the comments once again are so hillarious.

Since my husband is black they don't ask much but they usually do have to audacity to ask me if our children all have the same parents (us) I guess they assuming we remarried or whatever..

And of course I say yes what's wrong with starting all over again or yes they are all from the same blood... Welcome home girl. Glad you had some precious family time away. I loved so much how you had your two little girls match up 2x.

Ann said: I love all your pictures. God had given you a beautiful FAMILY! I think of your family and pray for you. Ann aamayna said: A beautiful post and a beautiful family!!

Recovering Noah said: So glad you had an awesome vacation!!

Which beach did you end up going to?

P.S. LOVE the pics!!

Leslie :‐)

8/3/2009 1:42:00 PM

Holly said: breathtaking!

It's all how you choose to see it...

natali said: i love the pics of your regular old family :)) your kids are gorgeous, every one of them! love2bmom said: You are so beautiful. Every single one!

Thanks for sharing the pictures of your trip to the beach. Just what I needed!

C

It’s 5:45 and my alarm goes off. As I stumble out of bed, inevitably nature calls. I head to the bathroom and am faced once again with this...

~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: I love these pictures ‐ that last one is extraordinary!! So glad you guys had a fun getaway.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy,

I don't understand why people look at us so funny either!

Guess because our kids are so cute they can't help but take notice right?

Awesome photos ‐ the faith one I hope you blow up and hang in the house! That ROCKS! I love little feet!

Love you ‐ have a blessed weekend!

Jill

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I begin praying to God for His help, envisioning Him blessing me with one of these...

And I was reminded once again that God is good ALL THE TIME in ways we could have never thought of ourselves. (plus, this paper was even FREE!)

A special thanks to whoever blessed us when we needed it most!

Comments Amy Jo said: OK, that is awesome. LOVE IT! (And the picture of the ginormous roll of tp!) Thanks for the smile, Amy

Yet I am reminded of Isaiah 55:8- "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," because after all, sometimes God doesn't answer our prayers the way we had planned them...

Doreen said: ok.. too CUTE of a story.. angie said: ha ha! that is too funny!

Sometimes He blesses us in ways we had never imagined...

Kim said: Thanks for this great laugh!

Blessings from Hong Kong, Kim

As I sat trying to decide how to 'fix' this situation I had found myself in- I glanced out the window to discover this...

Phyllis said: Oh Amy, that's too funny!!

Phyllis Bethany said: Ohh my gosh, that's awesome! LOL! Gardenia said: Hi. thanks for stopping by. I love your blog. love this post. and love the one a couple below it featuring your son. your children are beautiful and I love your posts.

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Blessed Mom of 8 said: Oh goodness!

LOL!

Praising God for the funny ways He provides!

Love you, Jill

Anonymous said: Don't you wish that you had saved all that toilet paper you wasted TPing houses back when you were a high school cheerleader? You are so funny.

Mom Recovering Noah said: So glad that happened AFTER all the rain we just got. hehe. Can you imagine having to pick up soggy toilet paper? lol

And good for you for seeing the humor in it!!!

Love you guys!

Leslie :‐)

Jenny said: You "crack" me up!

Bonky's Mom said: Okay...great post! It made me giggle!

Dardi said: That is AWESOME!!!!!!!!!! Isn't it great that God cannot be caged in by the parameters we come up with...AND He has an AMAZING sense of humor, too!

soontobemomof9 said: ROTFL!!! I have often been in just such a situation, but never had the answering come from a covering on trees! LOL One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: That was great, Amy

8/5/2009 8:22:00 PM

Paul and Angela said: That's hilarious!!!

Angela www.journeyforjordan.blogspot.com

Starting somewhere...

Shannon‐ said: You crack me up! Thanks for the late night laugh!!

For a long time now we have felt God calling us to adopt from Ethiopia… and for a long time now we have felt exhausted, emptied of all idea’s on how in the world we could ever save the money to do so. Adoption is expensive- there is no denying that. And with raising seven children, one going off to college, with the economy not being the greatest- lets just say the money tree in the backyard is ‘not’.

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Too Funny!!!! Love it‐ makes my heart laugh. aamayna said: Oh, this is great and not what I expected to see!!! love2bmom said: You are great!!!!

Thanks for the chuckle!

C Andrea H. said: you are sooo funny. I love your sense of humor.

It seems like the moms always replace the toilet paper, don't they.

Amy said: This post is too funny. :) Guess we need to be careful what we ask the Lord for.

His Hands His Feet Today said: Love it! "Go outside and bring mommy some of that toiletpaper off the trees so I can wipe myself!" LOL! K Laurel said: Hilarious! My husband even laughed out loud at this one.

:) :) :) ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: SO FUNNY!! I love it!!

Live to love and laugh said: That is so great. We "reuse" our paper when we are blessed with it too.

Todd and I have sat down with our budget (thank you Dave Ramsey) and checked over every possibility of saving a few dollars here or there, to no avail. Honestly, we do not live extravagantly. We are not wasters at all.

Every single thing I research about saving money- we already do. We cut coupons, hang dry our clothes, planted a garden, collect our own chicken eggs. We shop at garage sales, have older used cars, do not take extravagant vacations (actually we rarely take vacations unless they are virtually free) and we even recycle the toilet paper when people TP our house! (LOL) Just ask anyone who really knows me, I am about as frugal as they come. And I love it. I don’t consider being frugal a bad thing- I consider it being faithful with what God has given us and using it wisely for His kingdom.

"Set you mind on things above, not on earthly things” Col. 3:2 Our clothes may be second hand, but can I just say my kids always look adorable. For exercise we walk the track at our High school and don’t go to a sports club. Our cars are not going to impress anyone but they get us where we need to go.

Our house is used and comfortable- the way I like it and laying on the beach watching my kids play in the sand for free is the perfect vacation for us. We don’t need fancy to have enoughor to be happy. Growing up my dad used to say to me, “Amy, there is more than one way to be rich.” I completely get that now dad- because we are rich with love and I couldn’t be 466

happier.

I cannot explain to you how my heart warms when I know that one of our kids, or my husband, has dropped something into the jar that they could have kept for themselves.

Yet, we cannot deny that we know someone in our family is missing, and we cannot deny that we have heard God call. So, we have continued to pray, continued telling God we will obey Him, and then we have continued waiting…And waiting and waiting…

It may have only been a few pennies- but it’s faith my friends.

It’s about a family, pulling together for a purpose bigger than we are…

It’s about a family who isn’t focused on wealth- but on love.

Then one day during my devotions I was reading in Hebrews about faith. Faith is not about having everything lined up- and then going for it.Faith is not knowing that everything will turn out the way you planned- and then going for it.Faith is not just sitting on your rump saying yes to God- then continuing to sit.

Faith is taking that first step even when you cannot see how it could possibly work- especially when you cannot see how it could possibly work. Because after all, if WE were able to do it all in our own strength - then God would not get the glory. We would.And for us, this has always been about Him.

It's about a family who is being obedient.

It may take us 20 years to save enough money to adopt- but we have started.

Because we have been called and we know, and now we are responsible to ACT. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." Luke 18:27 Yet we also know that the bible also tell us in Luke 14:25-32 that “anyone building a tower or planning a war first should count the cost to see if he has what it takes to pull it off successfully.” We have plenty of room in our home and plenty of room in our hearts. We have enough money to raise another child- we just don’t happen to have $20,000+ laying around for adoption expenses. But I know that I cannot continue to sit around and do nothing, knowing that right now a child in Ethiopia is dying of hunger or HIV while we ‘wait'. So, we have decided to take that first little step. We started our pickle jar.What are you doing with a pickle jar you ask? (You were going to ask that weren’t you?) Our pickle jar is our first step towards obedience.

You've got to think about "big things" while you're doing small things, so that all the small things go in the right direction.‐ Alvin Toffler ***If anyone has any great fund raising or saving idea’s I’d love to hear them!!

Comments Laurel said: Beautiful post!

Our church actually has an "adoption support" ministry ... yet they haven't supported us at all in our adoption ... even in the CRISIS we are now walking through. Truly SAD! A close friend of mine (who also attends the church) went through an adoption disruption and the ministry directors never once returned her phone calls. Can't quite figure out what they do.

Laurel David and Sarah said: Amy,

Just came across your blog. We were in this same situation almost 2 years ago. We were pretty sure that God was calling us to adopt again, but we didn't have the finances. One morning, I was working out the details of how to raise the

Our pickle jar sits on our counter and it is a (large and kind of smelly) constant reminder of our obedience to Him. I cannot explain the feeling I get when I am somewhere in our home and I hear another ‘clink’ of a coin landing in that jar.

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into Kingdom Kids Adoption Ministry. Our church does not allow us to do any sort of fundraising at our church either and I am very frustrated by it and I don't understand it at all. We can not even put anything in the bulletin about it. Ridiculous!!! Be careful once you do start the process, the Ethiopian government does not want people fundraising for their adoption so be sure not to put anything on your blog. They do actually monitor it. I am sure your agency will tell you about this. God's blessings to you and your family. God will provide.

Our adoption is also and complete leap of faith. We do not have the money but know this is what God has called us to do. He said "Go" and so we are going. Do fear, doubt, and insecurities overwhelm us sometimes? Absolutely! It's our sinful nature.

But then we see those pictures and the tears of joy start flowing and our hearts start pumping and we keep on pushing and remember what this fight is for. Keep on fighting the good fight!

I love your blog!Your are such a motivation.

money, and I realized that we just couldn't do it (and remain faithful to the other things that He had called us to do). God would HAVE to do it. He would just have to give us the money.

Well, that day we called the adopotion agency that we had worked with in the past. They had a new list of referrals from China and we went to their office to look over the referrals.

When we got there, they told us that each child had a $5000 grant!! We knew that God was in it and He ended up providing EVERY PENNY for us to adopt our sweet Grace. Not only that, our other 4 children were able to travel with us to China when we adopted our little girl. God's love is EXTRAVAGANT!!

Blessings and prayers for your little on waiting in Ethiopia.

Sarah Violet said: I am so encouraged by your obediance. IT's a testimony for so many, especially young women like me who know Gods calling them to a life so different from what she has been taught, and observed in her own family. I desire so much to adopt someday. I long for the day I can be a Mommy.

Something I KNOW God called me to, is to be a stay at home Mom. I don't know when that will happen. I do know that as a young single woman, I can begin to take steps to that dream. I can get out of debt. I can learn ways to be frugal now. I can prepare myself.

My good friends and mentors, a family of 6 and soon to be 7, started making their own laundry soap over a year ago. It's a small thing but, she says saves her remarkably by the end of the year. I live at home with my Dad and brother. It's a small measure but, I now make my own laundry soap. It's relatively easy, and so cost effective.

I'm researching making even my own dish washer soap, and possibly toothpaste.

If your interested, I'd be happy to share this with you!

I will be praying for your familyand Gods faithfulness to your obedience.

I'd love to send loose change to your adoption jar... how can I do that?

Melinda said: I am so excited for you Amy! It is definitly possible and God will provide! This is how we did it for the last adoption. We refinanced our house and in that process were able to skip two payments. That allowed us to pay for our homestudy update, apply for the I600 and our placement agency application fee. We then had a huge garage sale. Asked for donations from everyone we knew. We raised $3500 from that. We applied for grants and received two. One from LifeSong which was a matching grant for $3000. We had to send out letters for that unless your church allows you to announce it there (ours did not) and we received one from Shaohannah's Hope for $2000. During that time God moved mountains and got my husband's work which is union to add adoption benefits of $5000 per child. That is huge because we never would have expected it, but my husband told the big boss of the company what we were doing so asking never hurts. All in all we raised $15,000 for our adoption. Email me if you want to hear about our agency who are far less expensive especially for some special needs and older kids. I would love to help you with fundraising, it can be done!

Anonymous said: We had a "pickle jar" that we just cashed in yesterday so we could pay our home study fee because we are adopting 2 children from Ethiopia. We went through every room in our house and picked out things that we hadn't used in the past couple of months and sold it on craigslist and had a yard sale. The kids were more than willing to sell some of their toys, we sold the entertainment center (even though it was only worth $100, a rocking chair that we really didn't need, and sold donuts at the yard sale. I normally am a health nut but I was willing to do whatever it took to make some cash to bring the kids home. It didn't make much money but a local grocery store was willing to sell the donuts to us for $.25 each and we borrowed the huge coffee maker from church. We made about $200 off of that. For 6 months we just kept sticking every little amount of money we could into this container and then cashed it in yesterday at it added up to $1,077. I cried at the bank yesterday. I didn't realize that it was going to be that much. I was thrilled. Our bill was $1185. You might also want to look

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Whitney said: Also... I thought I was frugal until I read this site:

moneysavingmom.com

I don't know how much you are using coupons, but she does ultimate couponing!

In the year and a half since I found this site, we have been able to shave more money off our already frugal grocery budget and have plenty for hospitality and giving.

Kimmie said: Amy;

Bless your heart!

I love this post, your jar, your frugality, all the comments...where there is Love...there will be a way.

Our last adoption God blessed us with $3K through a blog button that a blog friend made for us, $4k from Shaohannah's hope, $10K from our church family (an anonymous gift). We saved and *gave* and are so thankful.

We too don't have anything for another adoption, but in October we will jump back in.

Linda www.smithsoup.blogspot.com

You can never out give God Amy.

Praying for you and expecting in faith for God to give you all that you need!

big hug and a huge kiss; Kimmie mama to 7 one homemade and 6 adopted Tonya said: You are such an inspiration sister! I love the $1 idea and can see Jesus multiplying dollars quicker than we could imagine.... just like the bread and fish. With facebook and blogland, and hand written letters, the idea would explode.

Explode for God! "Take a photo of your loved ones with the $1 that you donate and we will post it to our blog." I've got $10 for you right here! Get an address up or a paypal link where we can begin to sow into this wonderful orphan ministry the Lord is creating through you.

On my knees for your family, Tonya in Phoenix Gina said: Hi. I've been reading here for a little while, though I'm not much of a commenter. And, sadly, I'm also not very successful at fundraising. I just wanted to write to say thanks because your post was encouraging. We have just decided to adopt 3 siblings from Ethiopia and now I'm kind of freaking out. Reading your post was good for me today.

Sean and Lisa said: Amy, Can not wait to see the blessing God has planned for your family!

LOVE the pickle jar! May God send boundless coins to fill up that pickle jar and may it overflow with more than enough.

"Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap".

Claiming this verse for your family!! whenpigsfly said: Congratulations and blessings for you taking that FIRST STEP!!!

I am not the garage sale kind of girl, and they never seem to go well for me anyhow, but with our kiddos and their friends, we do CAR WASHES! People love to help fund an adoption, love to see people willing to work for their fund raising and are usually so super generous, often giving nice gifts and refusing the car wash. It is a super opportunity to share the wonder and the ministry of adoption with lots of folks, its a great family game, maybe add a bake sale or lemondde stand, sell some home grown eggs or veggies at your donation table.........we make more than $650 every time we do a car wash. I was also told I should talk to a couple sororities or fraternities at OSU to see if one or more would sponsor us and help raise funds for us, kind of "adopting" our adoption. Its on my list of options to explore!!

Keep plunking coins in that jar though. Jars are amazing savings devices!!!

I'm exctied to see what Go will lead you to, and to WHOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Joy said: Oh what a blessing to read this! Yes, we have to step out in faith and the Lord provides. We sent out an email to friends and family and church family and said that they could forward it to anyone. We explained our heart and asked for donations for a garage sale, with specific drop off dates etc. The reponse was great and the neat thing was that all year, people kept asking if we still wanted donations for another sale. We continued to have sales every 2‐3 months and we raised thousands of dollars. Also, the nicer things that I knew I could get more $ for, I sold on Craigslist.

PS ‐ I just love your last post of the tp ‐ too funny James 1:27 Family said: Amy‐ Just when I think, "I've got to stop blogging and reading blogs. I've just got too many things to do ‐ homeschooling, laundry, dishes, bathing, eating, etc."

Then someone writes a blog entry that touches me and I see that God has set us in these cyber‐friendships for a purpose...

To lift each other up and encourage each other!

I feel exactly like your blog post. We've skimmed everything we can think of... we just canceled our cable TV. (That one stung a bit!) I'd love to fill our home with more children but the doors just keep closing with foster‐to‐adopt and we don't have extra money at all, let alone $20,000, like you said.

Your blog inspires me and I will keep my eyes on what the Lord values. I will continue to trust Him and know the He already knows exactly who will live in our families for exactly the number of days. Our bank accounts (or lack thereof) are not an obstacle for Him.

Who knows.... maybe we'll see you in Ethiopia picking up our new precious children one day!

May your pickle jar run over...

Love in Jesus, Amy in Atlanta Recovering Noah said: Oh, honey. If you're having a garage sale, just let me know. I'm cleaning out two very disobedient childrens' room and I'll have a nice stash for ya. *wink*

Honestly, I think you should take pictures. You are the BEST photographer. Come on, who else in the world has managed to take pictures of my Noah smiling?? You should totally have a fundraising day taking family pictures and pictures of kids. You have a true talent for that.

Love you, Amy! Love your heart. Love your family. Ya'll are the best. :‐)

Leslie :‐) Amy said: I would encourage you to look at grants and support letters (Whitney described above ‐ we are a part of the same ministry). It was a very humbling experience for us to send out letters but it was amazing to watch the Lord meet the need at just the right time, just the right amount. It definitely was a step of faith but the Lord walked us through it. The interesting thing

was that the people that we thought would give didn't and those we had no idea about gave so generously from their heart.

It is truly a blessing for others to be a part of the life of an orphan in this way, though they might not ever be led to adopt.

Praying for your family, you have been such an encouragement to me.

Andrea said: Your post was a wonderful reminder for me!

Thank you for sharing. I too will be in prayer for you and your family.

We had a garage sale at our house with donated items from friends. We made 3k in one day. It's a non‐threatening easy way for people to give and feel good about doing it. ;o) God will indeed provide!!!

Blessings Andrea

Karen in Missouri said: Amy, let the Internet help you! How many people do you suppose visit your blog each day? Each week? Each month?

What if 20,000 people each sent you a dollar?

No one has a lot of extra money these days, but hey, it's just a DOLLAR, right? I think we can all manage a buck!

ASK! Take that step out on faith.

Ask, and ye shall receive!

He will supply your every need.

Now tell me where to send my dollar.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy ‐ you just took the first step.

Just as David had to trust in God to provide the stone to take down Goliath..we must take steps in faith that He will supply what we know He is calling us to.

I am totally trusting God to provide for all of your needs to adopt the child He has already planned to be in your home!

I'll pray on fund raising ideas ‐ have you contacted Gwen ‐ Oatsville Team yet? She is starting an adoption fund type program and my friend Maria already has one I Support Adoptions.

Lots of love, Jill

Charlow Family said: You don't know me, but I found your blog and I just love reading about your family. Is there anything you could make and sell on etsy.com? If you know anyone else who sells on there, you could ask them to donate a portion of their proceeds on certain days.

I also believe that if we sow into ministries that we one day hope to have, God will reward that by having others sow into us. I hope to adopt one day too, and I would love to throw some pennies into your jar as I'm able. Would you consider setting up a paypal account with a link on your blog to make that possible?

Andrea H. said: Oh Amy, HE will provide, sooner or later but you already know that. After reading how frugal you are already, all my respect goes to you. So proud of you. People reading your blog LOVE your family and in the mean time while you havn't started an international adoption just yet (cuz The ET's don't like when you fundraise on your blog) but I would just put in a link where people can donate. Don't be shy girl, you are doing God's will and it feels soooo good giving money away that is for a good cause, ya know. I am sure I am not the only one feeling that way.

Gardenia said: I am inspired by your post, and your family ... and most of all, your faith. congratulations on taking the first step. that jar will fill up faster than you think, and God will provie, as He always does in His perfect timing and way.

Anonymous said: Here is the link. They are not up and running yet, but maybe the timing will be perfect for you guys.

http://www.147millionorphans.com/

Again, best of luck, I will be praying for you guys.

Sara said: A friend of mine sent letters out to everyone she knew telling them about their adoption plan and that they were collecting items for a garage sale. She had over 30 families donate small to large things and raised $5000! It was an easy way for others to give and was a great success to raise the funds needed for their adoption. Knowing God will carry you through! angie said: What a great idea and the "adoption jar" is truly teaching your little ones all about faith and family team work.

You're a good mom Amy.

Anonymous said: There are several PAP's out there doing gold parties. People can donate old jewelry they don't use any more.

Some of them have raised pretty good amounts.

I came across a blog yesterday of a parent that was going to start a site for other PAP's to direct people to buy t‐shirts. The t‐shirts all relate to adoption & orphans. I'll try to locate and send the link.

Best of luck, I have the same feeling that somewhere out there is another child for me.

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Jami said: We also are in the adoption process and have NO extra funds. We have a LARGE baby bottle that we collect our change in. We keep it in the nursery knowing that someday that bottle will be replaced with the babies God has for us. We will continue to fill the bottle as He leads us! And of course we're praying for a financial adoption miracle :)

We'll add you to our prayers!

TheHappyNeills said: do you know about the ABBA Fund? www.abbafund.org.

Kaitlyn's Fund, Lydia Fund, and Shaohannah's hope are great resources for grants. Lifesong for Orphans is a good place to start to set up a tax exempt account for your friends and family to donate to.

We have had at least 20 kids adopted in the 2‐2.5 years since we started our orphan care ministry and no families have gone into debt.

I know you have experienced God's provision in amazing ways just as you need it already, but it will happen again as you are obedient!

Praying for you all!

TheHappyNeills said: We started at zero, and I could second everything you say (except about having a large family already...ours is younger). NO extra $$$ anywhere, everything is already at a minimum. God provided every penny we need‐‐ exactly $40,000. He indeed sets the lonely in families, and I know he'll provide for yet another orphan to come home. We started with a few coins, too‐‐our sweet boy's (age 3 at the time) own money, after we had explained to him about adoption and how it costs a lot of money and will take a lot of time :) He ran away to his room exclaiming that he had some money!!! How the Lord increased it!!!

3 Blessings said: My husband I have been having the same urging from God to adopt from Ethiopia and we just started the process. We are walking a complete walk of faith in this too and we are trusting that He will provide. We know that God will bless everyone who walks by faith and trusts Him. Here is the post I did a couple of weeks ago about the start of our journey...

http://filledwithpraise.blogspot.com/2009/07/trust.html

Blessings, Amy

8/7/2009 6:30:00 AM

Birthday boy

Holly said: Amy, I love your heart.

God is faithful and He will supply.

I know that the reality is, you have to start somewhere,so you are doing it. You are telling the world that while you don't know how, you don't know when but you KNOW that you are called and you are doing what you can on your end and are open to God's provision in other ways.....You've stepped out in faith.

I'm so blessed to be able to watch His hand on your journey...however long or short it may be.

I am just crazy about your heart for the orphan. After everything you went through with the siblings that you had so hoped to adopt, you still have a burning passion for the cause of the orphan and God WILL bless that.

Love, Holly

Celebrating 19 awesome years of this boy today!!

Stacy said: Amy I love your blog and you are such an inspiration! I have a 20 year old, a 7 year old and a little girl waiting for us in China. I so badly want to adopt from all over or where ever! Sometimes I think I don't have enough energy or patience to have more kids‐ but my heart longs to bring the orphans home!

Please continue to post your family and experiences. I learn so much.

Praying for your adoption finances!

Stacy

Thank you God for this precious gift.

I thank my God every time I remember you. ~Philippians 1:3 Comments

Joanna B said: Hi Amy! I have enjoyed reading your blog for a long time, and your family has often been in my prayers.

I don't know if this helps, or has already been tried, but we recently had an adoption party. We held a silent auction, and friends and families donated things like babysitting services, meals, game tickets, etc... We were able to raise over $5000.

Best wishes!!

Whitney said: At our church, we encourage adopting families to send out support letters, just as missionaries would. Is there any denying that adoption is missions?!!?

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Andrea H. said: Happy Birthday Travis. You are one handsome gift from God. Anonymous said: Travis Happy Birthday. May God guide and help you through the next years as you go to college and out into the world. We are so proud of you and the fine young man you have become.

Love, Gram and Gramps Blessed Mom of 8 said: Happy Birthday Travis!

Many blessings and prayers for the coming year as you go off into the world and shine HIS light!

Lots of love, Jill

Food, shelter, family, God…

Suzette said: Happy Birthday! Hope it is blessed. My youngest son is also celebrating his 18th birthday today. I will blog about it later. Knowing God's hand is on our boys gives this mom reason to celebrate!

Kimmie said: Happy celebration! May your heart always belong to Jesus and may He guide each step you take in this life.

Praying you do wonderful, awesome things for God and that your life makes a Kingdom impact!

Kimmie mama to 7 one homemade and 5 adopted

8/7/2009 6:47:00 AM

What could you live without?

Awhile back I was sitting in a new class that we had just begun at our church. The instructor was doing one of those ‘getting to know you’ types of deals where they go around the room and each person has to tell something about themselves. I remember him asking us to ‘tell the one thing that was most important to us in the world- the one thing we could not live without- but it couldn’t be God or family- because everyone would say that- it was a given”.

There was a quiet hush around the room, you literally see could see people pondering their thoughts, searching desperately in their minds or something- the one thing- they couldn’t live without.

What about you? What is THE one thing you couldn’t live without besides God or your family?

Go ahead, take your time…

Think about it for a minute…

Now I truly hope some of you are not thinking your mascara or your blackberry… if so, I give up.

If it is a given that family and God are the ONE thing that we Christians realize we do not want to live without -and food and shelter are another thing we know without question we cannot live without- then why is it that if we know these things- only 34% OF CHRISTIAN FAMILIES CONSIDER ADOPTING and ONLY 1% OF CHRISTIAN FAMILIES ACTUALLY DO??

In the past, we have actually had one pastor laugh at us and say we were crazy for spending so much money on an adoption…

In the past we have had another pastor tell us that the church doesn’t get involved with adoptions or they would have to help everyone… How can this NOT be a priority for the church??

How can it not be a given that we should be concentrating on these things? Because we can preach the gospel until we turn purple, but until people have their immediate needs met, until people actually witness Christs love they will not be able to believe the truth. So what's stopping us?

Is it because it is a inconvenience?

Is it because we are afraid?

Is it because it is too much work? Is it because it might cost us something?

Is it because we might have to make a sacrifice? Isn't that exactly what Jesus did for you?

And are you willing to stand in front of God one day and tell him that?

I once read this quote from Mahatma Gandhi and it broke my heart... He wrote: “I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” That is something that I would like to change...And it needs to start now, today.

I want you to know that I do realize that I am probably preaching to the choir here… I am quiet positive that most of you who stop by my blog already have a heart for adoption...

You ARE doing something besides shaking your head, mumbling how unfortunate for them and then looking the other way. This was so obvious to me after the AMAZING comments I received after my last post. But just in case... just in case -as in God not 'google' led you here- and you have felt God stirring your heart towards adoption... What’s stopping you? (and if it’s the money, go get that pickle jar!!!)

Perhaps some of you are thinking 'food and shelter'…

That is a good answer…. Those are things you cannot live without- yet every day, almost 16,000 children die from hunger-related causes--one child every five seconds.

Which got me to thinking even more….

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And he came to us through adoption. And it's messy, and heartbreaking, and I still grieve, and still worry over his future.

But I could not live in a world where he didn't exist.

I just wish more people knew how profoundly life‐changing adoption can be.

Thanks for advocating so strongly!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Another Amazing job God did thru you here, Amy! Could you take over my blog plz :0) Bethany said: Wow, those statistics are just eye opening! I've always wanted to adopt and cannot wait until I'm old enough...not long now! There are SO many kids that need loving homes. ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: Fabulous post. Very well stated!

I'm going to email the link to a few people.

xo, the choir :)

If only 7 percent of the 2 billion Christians in the world would care for a single orphan in distress, there would effectively be no more orphans”.

Allie Garcia said: First, you are my hero. Your authentic faith is seldom, even in the blog world, and I am grateful that there are God‐fearing women like you in the world who can set an example for the next generation. I'm 23, and my heart burns for adoption. My husband's does not. We are not ready for kids, but I have already promised him that just as God has made my heart for adoption, God will reshape his too. We will have financial means sometime in the next five years. I guess all i'm asking for is prayer. It has been heavy on my heart recently to start praying fervently for a change in my sweet husband's heart toward adoption. Thank you for being awesome.

Comments soontobemomof9 said: I love your post! AMEN!

I read through your comments, hope you don't mind. Your mom and dads comment made me cry! When you don't have that, your heart cries out for it. But... onward! Gods heart is for the orphan as is ours.

I often think of 1 John 3:16‐18. In this verse it does not say give out of our abundance, but give if you have ENOUGH! There is such a difference!

Thanks for posting!

Andrea H. said: Amy, so amazing. People need to pay you money to read your stuff, heehee. Its so good. Just hinting to your adoption jar:) That was a deep post. I had no idea that the percentage of adoptions were so small.

Anonymous said: We've adopted 2 internationally and 2 through the foster care system.

I love your heart Amy, we are in the process of being led by Christ to be proactive about educating others about adoption, perhaps an adoption ministry through our church... we shall see.

Anyway, I see, all too often, people talking about the insane costs of adoption, yet they don't consider domestic adoptions.

When God calls you to adopt somewhere specific, you must obey. I'm speaking of people who say they want to adopt but it's too expensive... when in fact, when you adopt through the foster care system it's free, in fact, adopting families receive a subsidy.

Anyway, thank you so much for sharing this. I am going to utilize this thought process for our ministry in some way ‐ it is very powerful. Thank you so much for sharing.

Anonymous said: My husband and I have been praying about adoption, and like you, have no idea where the money will come from. The finances of an adoption are overwhelming, but not somthing that should keep us from trusting God, right? I made my husband read your pickle jar post, and we've decided to start our own jar. We don't plan to start the adoption process for another couple years as we just had our first baby, but what a great, constant reminder that pickle jar will be.

Thank you for blessing us with your words of challenge and encouragement. natali said: i love this post!!

Anonymous said: We'll donate to the pickle jar just as soon as we get to Texas this fall.

Love you for what you are doing too

Mom and Dad

Recovering Noah said: Okay, just assume that every comment I leave is going to start with.. "Oh Amy, I love your heart."

As I was reading your post, I was thinking, "What can I not live without." And it's Noah. Could.Not.Live.One.Day.Without.Him.

Holly said: You know what my answer was? "clean water" Do you know how many millions live without that...and die without that?

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participating in God's plan is something that I cannot get enough of these days! It's a fantastic rollercoaster ride with incredible highs and devastating lows and every single minute of it is so WORTH IT!!!

I'm already plotting ‐ um, I mean planning ‐ my next adoption LOL. I will be getting my pickle jar out as soon as we get back from bringing home Z ‐ leaving on Sunday!!!

While we let our clean water run down the drains not even appreciating it one little bit. Annoyed if it has to be turned off for 30 minutes for some plumbing work the city is doing.

Annoyed if it isn't hot enough fast enough when we're showering in the morning.

We are so blessed.

WHY are we so blessed? Is it because God loves us best? He just poured out all these blessings into our laps so we can keep them all to ourselves.

NO WAY? We have been blessed in order that we might be able to be a blessing to others!!

Our church also has declined to help families with adoption because the church is so big and all. yeah.

What we all need is a good dose of reality. A good dose of...it's not about me after all. What? Shocking isn't it? And we might all say that we KNOW it isn't about us but we don't live it.

I'm preaching to me here too!

What could we do as believers if we stood together to eradicate orphanages? Wow. Keep speaking the truth in love sister.

Andrea said: Darn I was going to say my mascara! ;o) Just kidding!!! Thank you for this post....thought provoking!

Blessings to you and your pickle jar!!! ;o) Cari Bacon said: Wow...I LOVE this post. I hope you don't mind but I would like to post a link from my blog to this post. More people need to hear this. I find it very frustrating to read the responses of those pastors...are you kidding me?!! I just don't get it.

My husband and I starting the current journey of our 2nd adoption this past fall. We had no money for the adoption and felt God tugging at our hearts to sell my husband's paid off 2003 truck. We stepped out on faith and sold the truck. We purchased a very used 1991 car and used the rest of the money to start the adoption. Six months later, my husband's job position changed within his company and now gives him a monthly bonus (that we set aside for the adoption) in addition to his base pay and a monthly car allowance. PRAISE THE LORD!!! We still waiting to be "matched" and continue to save for this adoption. I'm so glad that we followed God's "tugging".

Gardenia said: thank you for this post. you really have a way of putting it all out there, with thoughtful words. oh if only that 7 percent ... .

TheHappyNeills said: Hey Amy, I'd like to link to this post.

Where is the statistic from (34% ‐ 1%)? Thanks!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!

Love you precious friend!

Jill

8/9/2009 4:19:00 PM

Hope said: That closing statistic almost makes me cry every time I read it.

Dear God please convict your children concerning the fatherless!! angie said: I agree with you 100%! While sitting on my porch, I have often looked down my street and thought how awesome it would be if each family would take in just one child.

I love your heart Amy and I want your address so I can send you guys some money for your pickle jar! love u!

Suzette said: Oh Amy, this is so true! I read your post yesterday and my computer died on my before leaving a comment. Now this! WOW! I can't believe how many comments I have heard from Christians saying, "I could never do that." Well, if you love God, NOTHING is impossible with HIM! How I wish others knew what they were missing. With our 1st adoption we saw the money issue and instead chose to adopt through CPS‐and wow have we been blessed! This time God has been amazing in providing the finances that we DID NOT have at all! Check out my blog to see our garage sale fundraiser‐it was incredible!

God is so faithful if we will just take those baby steps.

A HUGE THANK YOU to Jill over at http://forevernevernalways1.blogspot.com/ for giving my blog a face lift!! I feel like a new woman! Isn't it beautiful???

Jill, your talent and your heart amazing me and I am so thankful you are my friend!

Check out her design site http://mydesigningsite.blogspot.com/ if you too want a new look. Plus, the money goes to help children around the worldbecause that's just the kind of girl she is!

Comments

Audrey said: I love your heart Amy! Being a Christ‐follower is so different from being a Christian. Saying YES to the whispers of God is hard at first but it does get easier. The thrill of

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Gardenia said: Love it!

Recovering Noah said: Oooooh, love it!

Leslie :‐)

Kim said: Love the new look. And love your heart!!!

Love & Blessings from Hong Kong, Kim ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: Amy! I love your new look ‐ and I LOVE your new signature. Check out an old post on my blog; scroll waaayyyy down to 3‐17‐09.

What was that you were saying about being inside your head? :) Adeye said: Oh I absolutely love your new look. Stunning.

Phyllis said: The new look is great!! I love it.

Phyllis Blessed Mom of 8 said: Amy,

I'm thrilled you are happy with it!

Your family is beautiful, as is your heart!

Praising Him for bringing us into each others lives!

Love you!

Jill Sara said: Your blog looks so neat! I love the new family pic too:) GinSpaghetti said: Beautiful colors! Love the quote! I have it on my blog too! :) (it's one of my faves!) ‐‐ and now I don't feel like a "blog stalker" anymore...

Hilltrain said: Neat new look. Very nice family pic too! :)

Anybody else wake up this morning and find a cow in their front yard? (and no we are not keeping it for a pet)

Shonni said: It is beautiful! I love it!

Andrea H. said: Goodness Amy, you guys are so beautiful.

LOVVVEE the the picture. And of course I love all the earthy brown colors. I need a lift too!! :) Dardi said: LOVE it!!! I'm totally paying her a visit. If I'm going to do this, it's got to at least be cute, right?!

Comments Laurel said: When we move, my dear hubby wants to buy a couple of cows (for beef and for milk). Can't you just picture my little ones going out to milk the cow every morning?

We are praying for 10‐20 acres when we move to the island.

:) :) :)

8/9/2009 9:31:00 PM Where's the beef?

QuEEn oF tHe cAstLe said: After seeing the toilet paper fiasco I didn't think you were keeping the cow for a pet....my thoughts were more of the dinner kind. That would have gone a looong way :) Joy said: Seriously?? I would keep it come on ‐ free steaks ‐ that is much better than free toilet paper ‐ God is providing big time :).

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Gardenia said: udderly surprising! (SOMEONE had to say that!)

I hope you live in a rural area. otherwise this is much bigger news! madison said: Free milk....are you crazy? Love the new look!

The gFamily said: Oh my word! That's hilarious! That would totally make my son's day! My Grant is obsessed with cows!

Live to love and laugh said: Ahhh come on mom! Everyone needs a pet cow.

Cute picture.

Shonni said: How cute! Both the girls and the cow!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: LOL!

Now that is a funny photo! The girls are so cute together admiring the cow!

Whose was it?

Love and blessings, Jill Andrea H. said: So cute! First time I saw your girlies in a while not matching clothes.

for us.

But do you want to hear the best part?? It doesn’t even stop there!!! It gets so much better actually, that I have barely had time to even stop and concentrate on the fact that in a year or less I will have one (or perhaps two) beautiful African children in our family.

So what could it possibly be better than that you are thinking??

IT's better because‐ we are STILL going to be raising $20,000 for an adoption!!

Can you believe how AWESOME God is??

The God of the universe is going to allow us to be a part of something bigger, something grander than we could have ever dreamed. Something that will change lives, give people hope and encourage them to be more- do more- than they ever dreamed possible.

See, here is the thing, when God blesses us it is so that we can bless others.

Get it?

8/10/2009 12:04:00 PM

Our pickle jar overfloweth....

Have you ever been so completely and utterly knocked off your feet by God’s immeasurable greatness?

I mean the kind of blown away where you were physically shaking?

That is me right now… blown away and physically shaken.

Our. God. Is. Unbelievable.

I don’t even know where to start… so I will just go ahead and blurt it out…

WE HAVE THE $20,000 FOR OUR ADOPTION!!! PAID IN FULLfrom someone who wishes to remain anonymous.

In one week our pickle jar overfloweth.

You know, when people used to say to me “God will provide” I am going to admit to you that while I know God can- and often does that for other people-I didn’t really believe he would do it

It’s not about ‘us’ it’s about HIM. We are not the ‘end to the means’. We are only the beginning.

We are His hands and feet and when He gives to us- it’s not supposed to be a one time deal, genie in the bottle, my wish was granted, sort of thing. It’s Him blessing someone so that someone else can bless someone and that someone can bless someone else.

It’s what following Christ is all about.

It’s about living for a purpose greater than ‘ourselves‐ our needs, far greater than something we can accomplish on our own- but knowing that through us, Christ can. It's about seeing someone else in need- and meeting that need, even when it’s hard, even when it hurts, even when it makes us uncomfortable, even when it’s work- because when we follow Jesus our life is no longer our own.

There are 147 million orphans in this world-NONE OF US CAN DO THIS ALONE, but together I truly believe we can start to be the change.

I do not desire to be the kind of person who sits here typing away on my computer preaching how we should all be adopting or supporting adoption, taking care of the least of these- and then say “Yea, goodie for us, WE have the money‐ thanks God‐ good luck to the rest of you.” That is NOT what being a Christ follower is all about. WE ARE THE BODY- we are 476

IN THIS TOGETHER. It’s going to take ALL of us working together, being willing to sacrifice, get dirty, sometimes even go without- to make a difference.

So because we truly want to live out our faith and because we truly want to honor our donor- we are starting the “Pass it Forward adoption fund”.

I need your willingness, your obedience to be a part of something more than you or I could ever do on our own.

"Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another‐‐and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24‐ 25

Being around adoptions for the past 7-8 years the one thing I have experienced as well as heard over and over again from fellow adoptive parents is how scary and overwhelming the cost is. Their hearts are burden for these children- and yet we are at loss as to how to come up with the money to adopt. We know God can supply- yet often times it is not as simple as Him dumping it in our lap. (although sometimes he does!)

So, where do we begin? For us, our pickle jar was our start of obedience- yet we knew it would never be enough. We do not live in an area that is hugely supportive of adoptions period.

There are other adoptive families- but not many.

Some of us are fortunate enough to attend churches that already support adoption. Others of us are laying that foundation.

So we knew God was going to have to do the rest- And He did.

So just think of how you would feel knowing there is a WHOLE BUNCH OF PEOPLE out there with the same burden, same passion as you and they were willing to work along side you?

They were willing to fund raise with you- for you? Can’t you just feel God in that? What if a whole bunch of people decided to start a pickle jar, have a garage sale, or use their talents to raise money for your adoption.

In a world full of lost, hurting people living for themselves I think it’s time those of us who follow Christ come together and ‘be the change we wish to see in this world.’ (Gandhi) In a world full of people who are trying to do it all in their own strength, constantly trying to prove they are don’t need anyone else, I think it’s time we start admitting we need Christ’s love- we need each other.

It’s going to take US working together to help THEM.

Can’t you just see God in that?

So now I feel free- free to ask- will you help us?

And as one awesome person said in a comment they left on my blog - "if 20,000 people gave just $1.00 that is ANOTHER CHILD WHO GETS A HOME."

WILL YOU HELP US RAISE THE FUNDS FOR SOMEONE ELSE'S ADOPTION?

For us, I will be honest, while I know it is wrong, I just had such a hard time asking people for money, or even accepting other peoples money. Maybe it was pride and while I know that is a sin and something I need to work on, it is so hard. I have heard others say the same thing. So what I love about the Pass It Forward Adoption Fund is- you wouldn't be raising money for your own adoption-you would raise money for someone else's.

There is so much we have to pray through and work out. So many details left to sort through. It’s going to take work and it’s going to take time but I truly believe that God doesn’t just want His blessing to end with one child and one family.

I think He wants this to grow to help many. So I need your help,

Will you give? Will you be a part of something bigger?

One child, one family, at a time?

"In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35 If you have any questions or any idea’s I am more than open.

Remember we are in this together. We are praying, seeking God’s will and wanting to do whatever it takes to get these kids home. If you want to give your idea’s- or your pickle jar- feel free to email me at blockamy @ hotmail. com (no spaces).

To our donor...

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There will never be words that are worthy enough to tell you how much it means to us what you have done. But I want to thank you for being a living example of Christ. What you did, what you gave, literally saved a life and I am praying it continues on and on and on...

I may be the one who in the future gets to land on US soil with these precious African babies in my arm‐ but you will always be the one responsible for making that happen. It is my greatest dream, now, to learn from your example and to 'do unto others have as you would have others do unto you'. It is my greatest dream to honor your example and bring hundreds of children into loving Christian homes where they too can learn about Christ’s love. You are leaving behind a legacy‐ the greatest legacy of all‐ of a person who gave their all and gave Christ all of the glory. You may never get to see just how far or wide this goes… but I know that one day when you stand in front of our maker He will open His arms and say" WELL DONE, good and faithful servant". I love you and while I know it will never, ever be enough‐ thank you. Thank you for living for something bigger than yourself.

Giving sets us free, while hoarding entraps us (James 5:2).

Giving changes the lives of others (John 3:16).

Giving brings blessing back to us (Luke 6:38).

Giving allows us to store up treasures in Heaven rather than here on the earth (Matthew 19:21).

Nicole said: Amy, Hi! This is my first time commenting... just been lurking before! Awesome blog! And we are right there with you... we are currently in the process of our 5th adoption.

When we started this adoption we had been home a couple of months from our 4th adoption. GOD has our timeline... not us.

He provided an amazing opportunity to adopt our sponsor child and even though we had 0 funds... we stepped out in faith as we had done 4 times before. We currently need $12,000 to complete our new daughter's adoption. I don't know where it will come from but I KNOW IN MY HEART AND SOUL that GOD WILL SHOW UP BIG. Cause He has before and HE WILL again. It is stressful not to have all the details... but that is our faith in our Lord. Please visit our blog when you get a chance: www.bakerssweets.blogspot.com

In Him, ‐Nicole.

Robyn ...but call me Rob said: I am in tears. What an amazing thing to happen to an obviously AMAZING family. God bless you guys!! :‐) Amy @ Literacy Launchpad said: Amazing Story!! So encouraging! And I'm so thrilled to have found your blog.

Would love for you to come visit ours sometime. :) http://ethiopiascalling.blogspot.com Salzwedel Family said: AMAZING! I love it when God blows us out of the water. What a wonderful blessing you will be to someone else. Praise God! Stacy said: I've been following your blog for some time now. It's inspirational!

This is awesome news!

Rhonda said: God is so good! You have truly been blessed! We are so excited for you! I would love to be a part of the pass it forward adoption plan! I will be watching your blog to see how I can help! Love you all so much!

Rhonda

Comments

Kristin Jag said: Amazing!!! God is so amazing and it is so wonderful that you can now pay it forward. We felt the same way about asking for money or help from others as you mentioned and wished there was something more out there, so we are also trying to start something to pay it forward; blessings forward!

Elftea said: Bless you!

Anonymous said: Amy,

I am so glad that God showed you the path you are to take for your next adoption! I knew when I met you at our K'stone training that He had His hands on your family for a beautiful purpose!!

We are doing respite and foster care again for another agency and are learning, stretching and growing. :‐) We have been blessed to have some really great kids in our home lately..if only for a short season. We know that God will move those He wants here forever in His time.

I will continue to lift your family up and will believe wonderful and marvelous things for it's new members!

Blessings, Christina

The gFamily said: I am completely and utterly knocked off my feet! What an amazing story of faith and obedience! Thank you to the donor for an amazing gift! Because of that person, and your family, many will be blessed as their families grow and children find forever families! Amy, you are truly an inspiration! My heart is being moved every time I come here!

We have been praying about Ethiopia for a while, and you are motivating us to begin the process soon!

PAHED said: that is awesome! so excited for you guys that the money has come in. it's a Great idea to have a pickle jar and support others. We really haven't done fundraising..we've done as you said, scrimping, trying to pick up extra work, and going into debt. :) now with our adoption agency's bankruptcy we are trying to see it restructured under different management, but it

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sounds like the whole 20K we have put in so far is gone and has to be 'refound'. it is daunting but GOD has led us to this path, and how can we not believe He will provide? just praying. love darci Laurel said: Heard a great idea once, but didn't know how to go about funding it.

You could take the money you are now raising and offer interest free loans to families, that would be paid back when the family receives their federal adoption tax credit. This would create a revolving account that could help many families fulfill their dreams of adoption.

Also, have seen many times in ministry that it is very good to have people work for some of the cost of anything (rather than giving full scholarships). So, you could give 1/2 "scholarship" loans and your money would then help even more families.

If this grows into some type of non‐profit organization, I'd love to be involved. I think the Lord has given you great vision here.

Just a thought ...

:) :) :) Laurel said: PRAISING Jesus with you!!!

Two years ago, an anonymous donor gave our church $15,000 to go towards our adoption fund. Yes, God is AMAZING!

We just heard a speaker at Family Camp this week that told us that we should never say, "I can't afford _____." but rather to ask, "Is this God's will?" Because, if it IS God's will ... than HE can always afford it. Isn't that cool!

HUGE Hugs !!!

Laurel

PS: LOVE the family pic under the kids pics in the right side bar. :) April said: Amy, I've followed your blog for many months now.

I was directed here by a friend of a friend. My husband and I have been praying about adoption and are certain God is leading us in that direction. Words can never tell you how your faith is such an inspiration to me. I have held back on doing the paperwork because I've been so worried about how the money will be provided. Reading this blog is full proof that GOD IS THE PROVIDER! I haven't been giving HIM a chance to provide for us! Thank you so much for your faith and your willing heart to share the good and the bad with the world. God Bless.

Jenny said: Amy, as I read through your beautiful (as always) post, I said a prayer for God to guide me to say the right things.

First, what an amazing gift!!! Words really can't describe how wonderful this news is for you, except; hope. This news gives hope to myself and my family.

The glimpse you allow us into your life has changed my heart, I want to be a better christian, a better mother, wife and person.

Reading your blog has brought a new sense for myself. I know I

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can be the change with you and I know God will guide me in the path he's made for me.

My husband and I have adopted two children and have two bio.

We wish to adopt again, but haven't found the resources we need. I have given up hope of bringing another child into our home. After reading your post, my hope is back x10! I know it can be done, somehow as long as we completely let God be in control.

Thank you for allowing me to be a bigger part of Gods plan.

Thank you for allowing us to follow your family and your faith!

I cannot wait to help in your pay it forward adoption fund.

What an amazing blessing for your family and your future African baby.

Cari Bacon said: Oh Amy! I am soooo overflowing with joy about this wonderful miracle. This is the kind of stories the news reporters need to be sharing. What a blessing for this financial donor, your family and your future children! If we can only get through our heads that money is NOT an issue with God. The economy has nothing to do with His Will. It's about our motives. Who are we willing to serve this day!! My pastor's wife always says, "It's not about our ABILITIES; it's about our AVAILABILITY". Glory to God for this answered prayer.

Melinda said: I just heard of your awesome news today from Carolyn. I can not tell you just how excited I am for you!!!!

Wow, just see how God moves when we follow in obedience!

Praying that the blessing can return 100 fold to your unnamed donor. What an amazing thing they will get to be a part of, one more life changed forever! Can't wait to see who God has planned for your family next. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your story. Love you guys!

Debbie T said: Amy, what an amazing gift!! I love your Pay It Forward idea! God is using your blog to touch people in amazing ways. Hugs to you my friend! DebbieT Anonymous said: So awesome! Yeah God! Can't wait to meet your sweet african baby(ies) someday! What an awesome God we serve!

By the way, I love your family picture. You all look great! Miss you guys!

Heather Nicki Zieth said: Amy I just found your website on a blog hop the Briggs family set up and I want to say that you have blessed my day beyond blessed, your faith and beautiful heart just oozes Gods example of love and compassion.

I have a friend Tami who is trying very, very hard to bring home her 2nd son from Asia, he has a disability, I know she would love to support your concept and would love to hear from you when you have the time here is her future son's website http://jeremiahspromisejohn1418.blogspot.com/ GOD bless you and your beautiful family Hugs Nicki another Adoptive mumma, living in Beautiful Australia.

your post three times now.

For me, I questioned a lot of things along the way and at times, I don't live by faith that it will happen. Your post brought a lot of different emotions and feelings.

Thank you for the post and I thank Gin for pointing it out to me.

Now to read your update. Amazing is the only world I can come up with. Just Amazing!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Overjoyed at your news!!!!

Crying tears of joy right now.

Our Family said: Thanks for being to first to leave a comment on our new blog Amy. Please let me know if I can help you in your fundraising efforts no matter who you ultimately decide on helping.

I can totally hear what you are saying about church families.

We have not yet found our permanent church yet since moving here when my husband got transferred to this base, but in the past we have never been in a church that had an adoption ministry. When I tried to start one in our last church and was met with hostility, we knew that church was not the right one for us! We were moving bases anyway, but it was still rough to be faced with.

Tonya said: A‐W‐E‐S‐O‐M‐E!!!!!!

In Mark 8:34, Jesus said that those of us who want to follow him will have to carry a cross in life. He said our cross is to live unselfish lives; that we are to forget about ourselves. We must live for God and for others; lay our lives down and do what is for the good of others and the Kingdom of God ‐ to reach out to others and take care of one another. Joyce Meyer once said that "each act of obedience to God's will is a seed we sow that reaps an abundant harvest of peace, joy and blessing in our own lives."

God bless the unselfish one trying to re‐arrange an already tight budget to make room for one or two (or three!) more. And God bless the one who heard the voice of the Almighty and did not shutter...... even when HE said yep, $20,000 ‐ all you.

This testimony is such an awesome example of how God intends for us to live, and I am blessed beyond measure to be able to sow a seed into the lives of the families that this ministry will touch.

I have a feeling checking the mail is going to be really, really exciting for you!!! Hahha!! Keep the updates coming!

Our Family said: How beautiful it is to see God bless your family in this way. Your donor certainly is a man or woman after the Lord's own heart! We are ready to start the process other than for the lack of funds. Check out our blog if you are intereted in keeping up with what we are trying to do.

http://dreaming‐little‐dreams.blogspot.com/

We'd love to have you and/or your readers follow along. Like you, we know that the Lord does and can provide, but we are so nervous about finding the funds to bring our children home.

We see the children we are feeling called to on a Waiting Child list (but of course are open to others as the Lord sees fit), but we just can't move forward until the funds start coming. I am praying that God helps us find a way to shepherd these little precious ones home to us.

May the blessings continue to flow your way!

Pam said: Hi! I just found your blog through a link on another one. :) My word. What an amazing miracle. God did a miracle in our first adoption from India....it wasn't so fast, but it was still a miracle for us! We are now in the process to foster to adopt. I will be bookmarking your page to hear more! I love the Pay it Forward idea. I will be linking you on my blog to get the word out!

God's blessings to your family & to the one(s) you will join you soon!

Pam Momma to Micah (3) from India.

Sophie Neri said: Amy, Praise the Lord.What a blessing and miracle, so happy for your family.We too have a little girl from Guatemala,along with 5 bio sons,and I feel the Lord prompting my heart to adopt again.Enjoyed the pickle jar idea,I've been filling coffee cans.Your testimony is evidence of the Lord's promises and unfailing love.What a remarkably giving Christian your donor is.It would be an honor to help your cause.

Blessings, Sophie Neri Abbie H. said: Sweet ol' Ginspaghetti sent me the link to your first post about the pickle jar a couple of days ago.

She has been an amazing support person in our journey to adoption emotionally. Since she sent the link, I've read over

Tonya said: A‐W‐E‐S‐O‐M‐E!!!!!!

In Mark 8:34, Jesus said that those of us who want to follow him will have to carry a cross in life. He said our cross is to live unselfish lives; that we are to forget about ourselves. We must live for God and for others; lay our lives down and do what is for the good of others and the Kingdom of God ‐ to reach out to others and take care of one another. Joyce Meyer once said that "each act of obedience to God's will is a seed we sow that reaps an abundant harvest of peace, joy and blessing in our own lives."

God bless the unselfish one trying to re‐arrange an already tight budget to make room for one or two (or three!) more. And God bless the one who heard the voice of the Almighty and did not shutter...... even when HE said yep, $20,000 ‐ all you.

This testimony is such an awesome example of how God intends for us to live, and I am blessed beyond measure to be able to sow a seed into the lives of the families that this ministry will touch.

I have a feeling checking the mail is going to be really, really exciting for you!!! Hahha!! Keep the updates coming!

Anonymous said: Celebrating with you in the Northwest! Wooo Hooooo!

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Thank you for inspiring us with your mustard seed.

Many Blessings!

Amy in Atlanta

I love how God is at work redeeming the pain you experienced in your obedience to Him.....

Can't wait to watch it all unfold!

Hugs to you friend!

Lisa H. Gina said: I am amazed, that is so awesome!

Jacksmom said: I love this idea. It's funny, I remember saying to my husband the other day that when we are finished fundraising for our adoption, I like doing it so much I might have to start up a 501c3 (although I wouldn't know where to start) so we can help others who are going through the same thing. You rock! I got choked up reading your post because like you I think it happens to other people. God is awesome isn't he?

You can count me in, we don't have much to give obviously since we're in the same boat as many others but we'd like to do what we can to help!

Andrea H. said: I am in tears Amy. Now that is a true Christ Follower. Someone who wants to remain anonymous. I am shaking and so overwhelmingly thrilled for you. I haven't even read all of your post. Need to read the rest laster when the kids are in bed.

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love, love, love the idea. We too have a hard time asking for money. Adoption just seems to be something our family does in our church, and it hasn't really caught fire ‐ yet, but we hope it does!!!! How amazing that God not only provided money, but that you have such an amazing idea!!!!

Bingaling said: Amy, I am so unbelievably excited for you!! What amazing news!!

Your "pass it forward" adoption fund idea is a FANTASTIC idea!! You continually inspire me!

Chanda JessicaW said: What a wonderful idea! I've often wondered why there weren't groups of people helping one another like this (similar to the Chinese‐immigrants "Association" method of new business funding).

I haven't been following your blog but was just introduced to it today. I look forward to learning more about your program, and you could definetly count on me to support a fund like this.

GinSpaghetti said: Tears flowing... I have no words. Praise Him indeed!

And what a wonderful idea to pass it on. Cannot wait to see how this unfolds!

Many prayers!!! (and praises!)

James 1:27 Family said: "If you have faith small as a mustard seed, you can say to this tree, be uprooted and planted in the sea, and it will obey."

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Heather Brandt said: God's miraculous provision for your adoption has confirmed for me again that God will provide the "how" for our next adoption. We certainly do not have the means to adopt again after adopting our son from Russia last year but we do feel the call and God keeps prompting my heart saying that He is not finished with our family. Thank you for sharing your story and giving me hope that God will provide for us as He did with our son's adoption...He is a faithful God who is crazy in love with His children.

Heather www.russianblessings.wordpress.com Fong Family Adoption said: Simply Amazing. ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: *A*W*E*S*O*M*E*

xo Dardi said: I have the BIGGEST lump in my throat right now!!!

God stories do that to me every time...thanks for sharing. These are the stories that feed our souls and encourage us to live out loud in anticipation of what He can do & not be limited by our human minds!

Love your heart & enthusiasm, Amy! Holly said: Amy! I am in AWE of God's provision and someone's willingness to invest a big hunk of change in ETERNITY!!

Yippee Jesus!!!!

I am going to email you with some questions about this pass it on fund!

How EXCITING! Oh to grasp the Father's heart for His children!! love, Holly TheHappyNeills said: Blessed Be His Name!!! I knew He'd provide for you guys, because HE DOES NOT WANT THESE CHILDREN TO REMAIN FATHERLESS!

We were just like you, too, when you said this: You know, when people used to say to me “God will provide” I am going to admit to you that while I know God can‐ and often does that for other people‐I didn’t really believe he would do it for us.

And yes, I know the knees‐shaking blown‐away feeling, as we saw every penny of our $40k come in! Although it didn't happen all at once like this.

...All evidence that He cares DEEPLY for the fatherless, and He paves the way for them to come home, when we can't see a way! This $ isn't about our faithfulness, it's about God's mercy on our families, yes, but ultimately He's doing this for THIS CHILD and for His glory!

Although we'll have to start raising $ for another adoption, we

JG said: What a beautiful testimony! I'm with you, in my head, I know God can provide all we need, but so often I don't really believe He will. Praise the Lord for His blessings, and I pray that you will have you new children in your arms soon!

Love the new layout, btw. ;)

still do what we can for others. Even before we had all our money, we still gave what we could to others. I use this as a way to raise $ for others' adoptions and other orphan projects: www.sugarplumorphans.com. Some might think it's dumb to give away $ while we need so much ourselves, but I know SOMEONE who is pleased when that happens :)

Excited to see where He leads you in this venture! Awesome!

Shonni said: Very interested, please keep us up to date on this idea. We are trying to raise money for our son who is in Ethiopia, and yet we also want to help others, and are never sure how to...

Thank you for this great post. I can't wait to see what the LORD does!

Andrea said: Oh Praise God! What an amazing beautiful gift!!! ;o) So excited, and would love to be part of your plan.

Can't wait to hear more!

Recovering Noah said: Count me in!

Amy, I am so happy for you. Honestly, I'm just in awe right now.

As my grandad always told me, "Great things happen when you let go and let God."

Great testimony ‐ and I can't wait to see how the Pay It Forward Adoption Fund plays out. I really think this is the start of something amazing.

Leslie :‐) Blessed Mom of 8 said: You can count me in!

You know where my heart is!

Ok, don't forget about I Support Adoptions that is also set up to help families in this position and I know Gwen ‐ Oatsville team is starting something just like this.

We can ALL come together for the same purpose!

One thing that my husband keeps bringing up ‐ in every verse that says care for the orphan ‐ it also says the widow. We MUST not forget about them ‐ they are way too forgotten already!

Love and blessings my sweet friend!

Praising God for the bounty of provision He continues to bless us with!

Jill Pattie said: GREAT IDEA. I am commonly stating that same thing about if 20,000 people gave just $1.00...Another child would have that CHANCE of family and daily hugs and kisses.

We would love to send some money towards bring home 1 more child to their family.

3 Blessings said: PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW! What an amazing blessing. I am so happy for you and your family.

We just started our journey and announced it publically on Saturday. The response from prayer warriors has been amazing.

Blessings to you, Amy

Anonymous said: Amy, I love the new pictures and may I be the first to say your blog today is wonderful. I pray many will open their hearts and help you raise money for another family to be so blessed. And to the donor may I add our thanks. We will now have one or two more beautiful grandchildren to add to our melting pot family

Mom and Dad

8/12/2009 7:52:00 AM

Listening...

This came today in my inbox. I love it when God meets you right where you are. For the past couple of days I have been so blessed by the precious emails and support we have gotten.

And yet often I have felt overwhelmed and totally questioning if God picked the wrong girl for the job. I am just a mommy with a passion and desire to help the least of these... just a mommy who knows what it feels like to want so badly to help the least of these‐ but to have no idea how to come up with the money.

Just a mommy who wants to leave this world just a little bit better than when she came. I don't know why God blessed us the way He did, but one thing I have found is that I can never 'guess' what God is up to or why. That is not my job. My job is to just be willing, just be available when He calls. I don't have the answers‐ but I know the one who does... and I am listening Lord.

God Speaks through Circumstances TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman 08-12-2009 "As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things" (Eccl 11:5).

God will often use circumstances in our lives to direct us in making and confirming decisions. I have often discovered this to be the case - but only after a situation has occurred. I later 482

Love you, Jill

look back and see how God worked in the situation.

Years ago, I launched a magazine designed for Christians in the workplace and I was having lunch with a Christian leader named Larry who headed a ministry that helps men and women apply biblical principles to managing money.

During our lunch, I explained to Larry that I had noticed that there were many grassroots workplace ministries cropping up all over the country. I asked Larry if he was familiar with some of the groups since he had taught a course and wrote a book on operating a business on biblical principles. But he said he was not. He then asked, "It would be nice to know what all these groups are doing so we don't duplicate efforts. Do you think you could invite some of these groups for a roundtable discussion?" I told him I would and I proceeded to invite four main workplace ministries that I had worked with in the past.

Then something unexpected began to happen. I began to get requests from ministries all around the country that had heard about the gathering and they were asking if they could attend the roundtable. By the time the event actually took place, 54 people showed up representing 45 organizations from around the country! Unfortunately, Larry had a last minute conflict and was not able to attend, and he informed me that I would have to host the meeting myself. That was the birth of Marketplace Leaders, the ministry I now lead full time. I often joke that God tricked me into starting this ministry because He knows I never would have done that on my own at that time.

God often confirms His direction through circumstances. Be on alert that when God sets up situations that are out of your control - He may be giving you direction through these circumstances.

Today's Prayer Lord, I'm reminded today of that old hymn "When We Walk with the Lord." It says "what You say, we will do, where You send we will go; never fear, only trust and obey." Help my condition, Lord, that I will not fear, but that will walk with You all the days of my life and have faith to always trust and obey, and leave the outcome to You. In Your name I pray. Amen. ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐

Comments Blessed Mom of 8 said: Praying over you and God's awesome calling on your life for the least of these!

8/12/2009 10:34:00 AM

Finding YOUR way...

C:\Users\Brent\Docu ments\~ BR Products\B logger to B ook Clients\BUILDING THE BLOC KS\More orphans.jpg

As I posted previously I have gotten so many emails from people who after hearing our story have been refilled with hope. And that blesses my heart beyond words because when we have hope- we begin to see a way… a way to get the 147 million orphans in to loving homes. A hope that God wants to use you and me and will.

But I wanted to say that while GOD IS amazing to drop that money into our laps- He is STILL just as AMAZING when He doesn’t do it that way.

For Mya and Aleigha’s adoptions from Guatemala we worked our tails off to come up with the money. Trust me, IT WAS WORK. It took time, it took TONS of effort, tons of faith, and we were still left with some debt that we had to pay off in the end. We created and sold Adoption cookbooks- there was major hours of work involved in that. We gave up eating out, had garage sales, scrimped and saved and much, much more.

But the cool things is- God brought them home and I don’t for one second regret what we gave up or the work we did. It was worth it all. And when I look back now and see how He was using that time to change us, stretch us, grow us- it all makes complete sense.

When faced with moving forward or not-we can’t just focus on the cost and say “Nope, no way- can’t do it- it’s too much.” If we know that God is calling us (and I am thinking He is if you are bothering to read this blog post) we HAVE to take that leap of faith… just like we did with the pickle jar... knowing it more than likely will NOT be easy- knowing it would take time- but being willing to do it anyway.

And please understand- we are not patting myself on the backwe were scared to death. I promise you I could NOT have seen this coming… But God did. And He see’s your way too- if you are willing… willing to GIVE IT ALL, GIVE IT ALL UP and GIVE IT ALL TO HIM. I think for us, starting our pickle jar this time around meant confessing to him we were willing to sacrifice ourselves, and our lifestyle in this world- for something bigger. We were willing to give up eating out, we were willing to wear garage sale clothes and willing to not lavished each other with gifts at Christmas. We were willing to give up vacations and much more.

Do you get your nails done? Can you give that up?

Can you cut your own hair and your kids? If not, learn- I did. :0) 483

(they had a few bad ones but I eventually figured it out LOL).

Keep looking- watch carefully what you are throwing into your cart at Walmart…

Drive less-car pool.

Is there a boat, camper or motorcycle sitting in your garage?

Sell it.

Give up bottled water, Starbucks, and coke- drink tap water.

Turn down the air conditioner or the heat.

Hang dry your clothes.

Get a 2nd job.

Don’t give expensive gifts-make them instead. Or better yetgive someone your time and attention.

Make a budget.

GIVE to others (even while you are saving) Spend less on entertainment. Use the library, take walks, go on picnics.

Make do with what you have.

Do without.

Tell God- or better yet- SHOW GOD how serious you are. What are you willing to give up to follow Him? Ask Him to point out the difference between your needs and wants. Then really search yourself and be honest.

system for your child- listen and then obey.

Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

Comments

The month of September (we are not starting now because we are using up our groceries) our family is committing to eating beans and rice every night for dinner to save on our grocery bill so that we can put what we saved off our grocery bill in our pickle jar for someone else’s adoption. Are we going to get sick of beans and rice? You better believe it. Will it be fun? Um, NO. But children living on the streets would be thankful for beans and rice- so who are we to sit down to steak and potatoes when we could be giving it up to GIVE MORE? Our kids also wanted to be a part of this- and what an great way to teach them to give of themselves for someone else. Can you image what God will be able to do through them one day when they 'get' this?

So my challenge is for you to ask yourself-How bad do you want make a difference? What are you willing to give up to GET a child home?

You CAN do it.

DO NOT GIVE UP. It’s not a question of 'can we?'- it’s a question of will we?

Will we do what it takes?

And I also want to encourage you to really listen to God and where He is calling you. Have you prayed about adopting through the foster system? It’s way cheaper- virtually free. God brought our beautiful, perfect, precious Kaden to us this way and we were blessed in an even greater way than having $20,000 handed to us.

The Blaske Bunch said: Amy...I know this is an older post...but about 4 weeks ago my husband was poking around and found your blog and this post. Honestly the blog world has been a hard world, as an adoptive mom of two, and another coming...making us a family of 9, it is hard to see through the "reality" of some blogs...so i have been on a blog fast, as I felt my heart being pulled away from God and toward opinions I was having to form or not form.

I say all of this to you as a HOPE that you are a BRIGHT light. I know there are many God size stories and amazing families out there in the world living by the power and humility of the Holy Spirit...it is WONDERFUL to see that in you!

This post: Okay....my husband read the post, we are preparing for our 2nd adoption, 3rd child. (Ghana Africa) God used your "Pickle Jar" idea to EXPLODE God's love for us. I have not blogged in almost a year...but tonight I blogged..."Pickles for dinner" and in honor of the GOd size obedience you had to take your family to this place...I wanted to personally THANK YOU! MAy you continue to walk humbly, but be full of power as you continue to let God shine through you!

Carrie www.blaskebroadcast.blogspot.com Jman's momma said: oh Amy I just love you heart! I love that you write and share that beautiful heart. Your obedience to God's heart is an inspiration. We know we will be adopting again as soon as Chris is finished with surgeries and well enough to pass inspection ;) No reason to wait until then to save up for the homestudy, agency fees, and travel costs. We need to do it TODAY!

Love you girl and praying one day I can actually meet you precious family in person.

Anne Andrea H. said: Amy you have no idea how much I love you. I mean how much more clear can you get? I bet everyone could find at least 2 things they can give up. I did love the clothes drying. Since I am from Germany I have done it all my live but I could imagine it being a huge inconvenience for someone not ever doing it before. I love the rice and bean idea. I just love you to pieces and surely saw a few things I can do with my family.

Lets bring those babies home, lots of them.

However, only you know where God is calling you- ALL children matter- not location. So whether God is call you to China, Ethiopia, Uganda, Russia, Taiwan, Columbia or the US foster 484

Meredith said: I loved this post, love your thoughts on adoption and are so inspired. We're days away from the birth of our "special" baby and until about 2 minutes I so close to the verge of freaking out about how to pay the last deposits to our lawyer and agency but now I'm calm... because we've given things up, scrimped and saved and God provided and He always will.

Thanks for the encouraging words... you're passion for adoption echoes my own. God Bless

His beloved orphans. I am speechless.

Rejoicing with you!

natali said: i love this post! such great thoughts! :))

Tonya said: Okay girl, please take note when you receive the letter with my pickle jar money that it was written yesterday, before you wrote this post. It is so awesome having a personal relationship with The King!!!!! Something so huge is going on here!!! He is using all of this to "grow and stretch" me, and you are going to just start laughing when you read what God placed on my heart 19 days ago that began coming to fruition with your pickle jar post. And this very post just solidified another prayer for me about His wishes with something else in my life regarding finances. I can't wait to talk to you! Hurry up mail delivery person!!!!

I'm all of the sudden craving beans and rice, ha!

Hugs from Phoenix!

Pam said: This was an awesome post. Another way to lower the grocery budget is to coupon! Other families can check out www.moneysavingmom.com for great ideas to lower monthly out‐go in order to give more! I can't wait to see what God is doing here! If your story to your son Kaden is on your blog somewhere, I'd love to read it. We are half way through our foster training. I know so many "stories" of international adoptions, not so many foster/adopt ones. ;) Anyways, this is great what God is doing here. Wow. Gardenia said: Thank you for this post.

Melinda said: Love this Amy! Everyone just needs to start somewhere. It can be done and if we all work together and share our ideas, just think what God can do! We have always lived on a budget, but definitly have room for improvement. I am always calling our cable company to downgrade and in turn they cut the cost. We only have basic cable at $15 a month, but our internet is through them. I recently called the cell phone company and lowered our plan there as well and saved $40.

We don't have a home phone line which also helps. I am really liking your rice and beans idea. I just told my kids and they are all open to it, my daughter just said that she didn't think her dad would be so we will see. :) Maybe you could get a paypal account started to help with this idea. That way people could send money every so often as they felt led. angie said: AMY!!!!! What in the world... how did I miss the post about someone giving you guys 20,000??? That is a miracle and SO awesome! Whoever that is will be blessed for giving up money for a greater cause. I am so happy for you guys! You are a great family and I can't wait to see the beautiful children that will soon get to be yours! congrats!

Jacksmom said: Amy, do you have any beans and rice recipes you can share? I love this idea and we've been trying to lose weight and while my 2 year old won't eat beans if they're not lima beans, he will eat rice. We've been trying to lose weight so we've been buying fish filets in bulk and eating lemon baked tilapia probably 3 times a week. It's cheap, easy and low fat. I'm proud to say we don't eat out as much as we used to so we're saving some money there as well! I need to find a big pickle jar to put on our counter like you did. I just used the money we had raised with a yard sale, silent auction and car wash earlier this summer to fund our next fundraiser and I'm having a coronary!! I just pray it's successful and brings us that much closer to our next child!

Adeye said: Oh my goodness, I am just catching up. How absolutely incredible to read what the Father has done.

Surprising? Not at all. Just amazing. How deeply He cares for

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Shannon‐ said: :) I wanted to post yesterday‐ but was so moved I couldn't think of words. Again today. He continues to astound me. Thank you for having the words to share.

fpatlan said: Amy...you guys are such an inspiration...! Let me just say that this post is exactly what our sermon was on Sunday....talking about listening to what God is calling us to do and just do it by trusting Him. It's something I am praying about everyday to allow myself to do. Thank‐you for sharing this...

I like your rice and beans idea...you know when I was little my parents said that we lived for a month on just potatoes when my parents were in Bible College getting ready to go to the mission field. :o) Blessed Mom of 8 said: AMEN! AMEN! AMEN!

You can have lots of fun with beans and rice ‐ they never have to taste the same twice. We eat them three times a week at least!

When you want a new recipe let me know!

Everyone is called to help the orphan and widow. Whether that means praying alongside of others adopting or fostering ‐ we can all do something to help the children and widows around the world!

We can all give up things we DON'T need!

We can all go without so others can have.

It really is that simple. Choose life or death this day!

Listen and obey Me say the LORD!

My choice is to obey!

Walking in obedience with you every step of the way!

Jill

defeat the purpose, but we would definitely save money and be able to contribute that way. :‐)

Leslie

Amy Jo said: A friend just shared your blog with me. So glad she did. This is a powerful post and oh‐so‐true!

Praying God's sweet and abundant blessings upon you and your BEAUTIFUL family!

With JOY, Amy in OR Charlow Family said: Very relevant and a welcome reminder! If God leads us to WORK instead of dropping things into our laps, it's not because he loves us any less! I think sometimes he makes me work for things a little harder than others to get the lazy out of me :) Kendra said: I agree with everything you've said! We've always kept things to a minimum, even before adoption. So it's very hard for us to find areas to scrimp even more. God has been faithful to provide unique ways of providing things so that we can put more in our adoption fund or have more to give to others. My latest blog post is one such example‐‐amazing! www.thehappyneills.blogspot.com

I hope many are inspired by your story and shared thoughts, to spend less so that others may have MORE!

allisyn said: i absolutely love EVERYTHING that you said! I can tell your heart is overflowing with love for all the orphans :)

8/13/2009 1:11:00 PM

Our first official fundraiser for someone else's adoption

Laurel said: I was thinking about taking a road trip to Texas in September with my 6 younger kids, so maybe we'll come eat some beans and rice with you. :)

Great post! Love to hear your heart!

Laurel Hope said: LOVE your attitude!!

And thank you for mentioning the children in foster care!

This fundraiser my kids thought up! They got this adorable African doll and wanted to do a 'silent auction' on here to make money for our "Pass it Forward Adoption Fund" for someone else's adoption. We are not allowed to do raffles in our states so if you are interested in winning the doll you can email me your bid at block amy @ hotmail dot com and the highest bidder will be the proud owner of this beautiful doll! Also, I did add a 'chip in' gadget on the right side of my blog for those of you who asked. Thank you so much for your hearts and thank you for your support. Together we can get these kids home.

Holly said: I love your ideas!!

We are already living on $75 a week for our family's grocery budget. It would be super duper hard for me to get it down any more...but God will show us a way. I just cut our cable bill from $68 to $10 a month but am planning to use that extra money for gas since I'm driving my high schooler to swim practice every night of the week! The reality is....where are TREASURE is...that's where our hearts will be. God CAN make a way...if we are really interested in storing up treasures that moth and rust can't destroy and where no thief can break in and steal!

I still need to email you!

May this spread like wildfire!! love, Holly Valerie said: Your post brought tears and of course ideas to me.

I've been toying around with adoption again and last night I felt that God sent me a dream letting me know this IS the path for us to take. I love the pickle jar idea and am going to start one this week!

Comments

Recovering Noah said: I really think you should issue a blog challenge, Amy. We can't do beans and rice (everyone except me hates beans and Noah would starve), but we could do tortillas, rice, and veggies. Or cereal and milk. Or salad. Might

Melinda said: See, you are much more computer savvy than you give yourself credit for! So happy to see the chip‐in button and can't wait to see God move! Also love the African doll! Wish I had a little extra cash right now to bid myself. So beautiful!

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I am a new follower of your blog and I just posted about you on my blog. I can't wait to follow your journey to your new precious addition.

Debbie said: I think God has just begun to use you in a BIG way to spread the His love through adoption! Watch out, lol!

Abbey said: Can I ask if you know who the adoption money will go to? Have you already chosen a family? If not, how will you?

Laurel said: Hope you don't mind that I shared your story ... and a link to your blog.

:) :) :)

Hannah said: You have such a beautiful family...not just by looks (although SERIOUSLY gorgeous) but by what is shining from their hearts.

I think it is amazing that someone blessed you and you choose to bless others. Wonderful!

God Bless.

Holly said: I am so excited to see God moving like this Amy!!!

Ajay said: Laurel mentioned your "pickle jar" story on her blog that I've recently started to follow. I read your past few posts and am encouraged and inspired! We were able to work hard and adopt our first child from Ethiopia debt free and now as we've had a heart to adopt a sibling group I've found myself feeling as though it would be impossible to scrimp and save that much all over again. Even though a year earlier it was the once shouting from the roof top that God does provide! How dare I limit God in what he can do for these children and our family! Your stories spoke to me in a huge way about what FAITH looks like! =0) I have a really big pickle jar in my sink right now soaking to get that vinegar smell out and I was debating what to do with it as it was such a big, neat jar. NOW I KNOW EXACTLY WHAT TO DO WITH MY BIG PICKLE JAR! Thanks for the encouragement!

Andrea H. said: Now everyone reading Amy's blog, put your money where your mouth is. Even if it is just one dollar and even if it is not for Amy's adoption but Amy is raising the money for someone and after all its God's money anyway!

Doreen said: ohh love your new blog look:o)!!

Doreen said: Just got caught up in the BIG NEWS Amy!!!!!!!!WOW...CONGRATS to you and your family and your new little one waiting in Eithopia!!! i would love to send money for your pass it forward raise money for adoption for another family..!!!

Elisabeth‐ Truly Blessed said: Amy, Thank you for your gentle (in your face:) reminders. We are in the midst of adopting 2 angels with Down Syndrome‐ one 4 year old angel girl from Eastern Europe and one very unexpected baby boy due any day from Florida. We were not pursuing a domestic adoption AT ALL but God called us. And so we follow.

We have been working our tails off for 5 months to raise enough for Ruslana's adoption and I can't believe that I am able to say that her adoption is 97% funded! God is truly, truly amazing. We had to work but He did provide. And we did NOT expect anything to be handed to us. We have been blessed to meet some awesome people and have been able to share with them our story, His story, because of these adoptions.

Baby boy's adoption...let's just say we are totally stepping out of the boat with this one. We are beginning again from scratch‐ we've only known about him for 2 1/2 weeks and he should be here very soon. The thought of beginning again is daunting.

But, He will provide as long as we fight for Him.

Again, thank you for all your reminders about orphans, faith and God's unwavering love for each and every one of us.

In Him, E Chris and Sarah said: Hi, Holly sent me over to your blog after I was joking around on Facebook about having God make it rain money because I wanted to bring home a little one or 2 from Africa.

Wow, I have to say I am totally blown away by your blog and the way God is using you. I love, love, love your idea of fundraising for another family!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Love the doll and your heart to help others!

Glad you found the chip in coding. I have never used it. But I do see it on many blogs.

Hugs and love!

Jill

8/14/2009 9:43:00 PM Celebrating 14 years of this precious girl!!

Thank you Addisyn for bringing so much joy into our lives. I could not be more proud of the kind of person you choose to 487

be every day of your life. Live big for Him sweetheart‐We love you!

8/15/2009 1:22:00 PM

Just so you know... **** Update-thanks for your patience- I FIGURED IT OUT! YEAH! Look at what you guys did! You are making a difference!!

Comments Andrea H. said: Happy Happy Birthday Addy, you are so beautiful.

Holly said: Happy Birthday :) Amy‐ I did a chip in but it isn't showing up. Might want to check on your end and let me know.

Blessings, Holly Recovering Noah said: Happy Birthday, Addy!!!! We hope you have a great one.

P.S. Just think.. in two years you'll be driving! ;‐)

Leslie, Noah, Nandi, and Eli Blessed Mom of 8 said: Hi Addiysn! (this is Lexi on my mom's account)

Happy 14th Birthday! I hope you have the best year yet! =D

Guess what's so cool? Its my birthday today too!!!! I am 15 today.

Hoping you have an awesome b‐day!

God Bless!

Lexi <><

First of all- THANK YOU so much to those of you who have contributed to someone else's adoption through the Pass It Forward adoption fund. You guys are AWESOME and I am so thankful for every single one of you. Because I am so technically challenged I am having a hard time getting this chip in button thing to show the contributions. Those of you who really know me know that I have never used PayPal before (I'm the send a check in the mail kind of gal).However, I am working on it, and waiting on confirmation on the account. (I don't bank online so I had to wait the 2-3 business days). Just didn't want you guys to wonder what was going on. I keep telling God that He probably chose the wrong girl for the job- I'm just a mommy (with a HUMONGOUS passion for orphans). I'm willing to learn though and so thankful that God sees something in me worth using.

Love you all and thank you again for making a difference in someone else's life.

Comments Shonni said: Thank you for sharing your passion with us all...

Praising the LORD. Blessed Mom of 8 said: God's blessings are pouring down on your obedience!

I love it!

Praising His awesome, wonderful NAME!

Love you and hugs, Jill

Blessed Mom of 8 said: How cool is that ‐ our girls share the same birthday!!!!!!!!

Lexi is 15 today!

Happy Birthday Addisyn!

Blessings and love, Jill

Dardi said: You're doing great, Amy! I can only hope to touch as many people as you have along the way!!

Phyllis said: Happy Birthday, Addisyn!

Phyllis & Kristen

Sarah Dawn said: It is always an encouragement to stop by and build the blocks with you.

I am challenged, inspired, uplifted as we follow our Lord's leading into the adoption process.

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Blessings from Costa Rica, Sarah Dawn rhonda said: I absolutely love your blog. I cannot wait every morning for my computer to boot up to see what else God has done for you and your family. You will never know how much ready your words mean to me. I too share you passion about children and when reading your post I feel your passion as well. My husband and I recently finished training to become foster/adopt parents. I have seen so many children in our state that are already available for adoption that I would love to bring into our home and just love them like they've never been loved before. I pray that God continues to bless your home. ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: Wrong girl for the job? Not a chance.

8/15/2009 8:13:00 PM I received an email the other day from a sweet girl who is in the process of adopting right now. She had written about how this adoption was such a huge step of faith for her family- how coming up with the money was so terrifying because in the past they had gotten ‘burned’. She went on to explain that a few years back she had gone on a missions trip with her church and how she had worked and worked to fund raise. As the trip approached, people kept telling her not to worry- God would provide. And yet when the time came for them to leave for the trip- she was still short on part of the money she needed to go.

The church she attended let her go anyway because they had witnessed how hard she had worked- and yet to this day, remembering how that had happened, left her feeling disappointed and hurt. Her faith had been shaken to the very core.

So what happens when God doesn’t come through and why doesn’t He sometimes? I know I, for one, have had those exact thoughts in the past-especially as we embarked on this new adoption journey. And I know of others who are afraid to take that first step of faith as well. So this got me to thinking... where was God when this happened? Why did this happened?

This is what I discovered…

God didn’t fail her. He never fails us.

And she didn't fail either.

She did indeed go on the missions trip just as God had called her to do. He saw her heart and He saw her willingness and that is all that truly matters. She heard God calling her, had a

heart to serve Him, and a heart to serve others. She worked hard, she stepped out of her comfort zone. She spend time and energy on something other than her own personal ‘needs’. She was willing. She told God she would go- and she did.

So what did happened? What went wrong?

We did.

You see, I believe we are all called to sometimes be ‘goers’ and sometimes be ‘senders’. In this instance- the ‘senders’ failed her. The failed to do their job- they failed to support her. This is why I believe it is so important that we are all in this together.

Being a sender if every bit as important as being a goer. We can't all go on every missions trip- some of us will never be able to go at all. We cannot all adopt every child- some of us will never be able to adopt at all. But we all play a very important part. We are all called.

I am going to be honest and admit that there have been times when I saw a need- saw a chance to be a part of something God was involved in- and didn’t act. Perhaps I was preoccupied with my own ‘missions work’. Perhaps I forgot, or got busy.

Perhaps I just thought someone else would do it- or I just chose, out of my own selfishness, to ignore the need. Perhaps I chose not to make God’s priorities my priorities- and simply focused on ME.

Ugly huh?

When we claim Jesus as our personal savior we become a part of the body and we are to work together in all areas. And yet often we don’t. Often times we look out of our own little window of life and become caught up in our desires, our plans and our dreams-and we missing being a part of the bigger picture. We miss the blessing of being a part of something BIG for God’s kingdom because we are too consumed with our own world. One of my all time favorite lyrics in a song is from In the Blink of an Eye, By MercyMe . It goes like this (sing it with me now) "How can I further your Kingdom when I’m so wrapped up in mine?” That one line says it all.

We can’t further His kingdom when all we care about is ours.

We need to be willing to invest ourselves and our lives into others whether Gods asks us to do that through prayers, words of support, giving of our time, or financially .

God asked our family to be 'goers'. We are blessed to get to ‘go’ to Africa and bring home a child and adopt them as our 489

Melinda said: Love this! So true! We can definitly do both and sometimes we are just called to do one, either send or go.

Either way we need to be still and hear His voice. He is speaking, we just can't hear Him sometimes through all the noise.

Every little bit someone gives makes a difference. It can be $1, $5, $10, whatever the amount God will use it and bless it. I always say the best thing you can do when you are fundraising yourself is to give to others, God honors a giving heart. We are a testament to that. Praying that many, many people join in to be a blessing not only to the family you have decided to help, but all the countless other's that have decided to step out in faith and follow God's call and adopt a child.

own. But I also know God wants our family to be a ‘senders’.

We are giving all that we can to be a ‘part’ of the bigger picture- a part of His plan.

What about you? Where does God have you right now- and are you listening?

Remember just investing one dollar, one prayer, or one word of encouragement truly does make a difference in the life of someone else.

Jenny said: AMEN AMEN AMEN....OMG...CAN I SAY IT AGAIN...AMEN AMEN AMEN!!! I love that...if we were all just willing to help...even if it were the smallest amount....but daily...just help! There would be so much less unhappy people in this world!

God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you... may provide in abundance for every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8

Kelly said: Hi Amy...came across your blog in another blog I read. I've enjoyed reading many of your entries. I love your heart and your honesty.. thank you for what you are doing for another family. I am moving to Ethiopia in less than 3 weeks to work with orphans..it takes us all...we can't be still any longer.

Kelly Wendy said: I thought when we found out that we would never bring our sweet daughter home from Guat that God had failed us. I was devastated and angry. But then I realized. He didn't fail, I just misunderstood the plan. I thought I was meant to be her mother, but instead I was just God's tool to save her life. I heard his voice loud and clear when I rushed to Guatemala to nurse her back to health after she had been horribly abused. I was there to insure she got the medicines she needed, the therapies, the new foster home where she was safe, loved and nurtured. I made a difference in her life. Sometimes it's not about what we want, but it is just as important.

Comments Dadoo's Wife said: Wonderful and right on! your family is beautiful!

Shonni said: What a wonderful post...we have also been disappointed, many times by other Christians and family. It does hurt to have others not value what we are doing; to even tell us we shouldn't because we can't afford it. At times it was a feeling of "you don't have the money, and God hasn't miraculously dropped it out of the sky, so you must not be doing the right thing..."

I have been so thankful for finding others through the blog world who share our passion for living radically for the LORD, stepping out in faith,and supporting each other through it.

May I link back to this post. Others really need to hear this message!

Shannon‐ said: The gratitude I feel for finding your blog and for the movement it stirs in me‐ is not easy to put into language.

Truly, THANK you. you are helping me to further my understanding and mature my faith in God. This maturing is leaving me more confident in my call to adopt, myself. Thank YOU! The gFamily said: Just had TWO amazing sermons this morning! You are teaching me so much! I love it! I love you!!

the Matt family said: so glad your very wise insight into my story was able to breathe life and excitement into others' lives. you are a very passionate writer that makes me wanna get up and do something!!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: I wish you could see my face as I read this post!

I wish you could hear my voice as I say I love you!

I wish you could look into my heart and know that I know that I know every word you wrote is of HIM!

Amy ‐ sometimes when we get so close to Him nothing else feels right!

Nothing feels like it can possibly matter more than being right there with Him!

PAHED said: amazing post! I have thought this so many times (although not nearly as articulately!) We are all called to take care of the least of these! darc kitzkazventure said: Great post! I wrote one along this same line of thinking this week too! We just need to encourage people not to stop at adopting...not everyone is called to adopt but we are ALL called to orphan care. I just love how you expressed it all...God has blessed us thru your words! Your posts are always so thought and action provoking! :)

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Nothing else compares to being with the ONE who died for us and paid for our lives!

This world and all it has to offer is tragic!

But what He has to offer is greater than anything our eyes can see, our hands can touch or our hearts can feel!

He is our EXCEEDINGLY GREAT REWARD!

He will NOT ever fail us!

AMEN! We FAIL Him ‐ sadly every single day when we make any given moment about us and not all for His glory!

Praising Him how He continues to align our hearts as one.

My words today match this post so closely in spirit ‐ that I am going to share a link so others can be blessed by Him through you as well!

I love you Amy!

Oh Lord, please let us meet and dance together in Africa one day!

BIG BIG BIG HUGS! Jill Audrey said: Great post Amy. You are so right, being a goer doesn't mean that we can't also be senders. When we start training teams for mission trips, one of the first lessons is on the goer‐sender‐receiver triangle. I feel bad for the girl who didn't get her funding in. I've had happen on my teams, too. It isn't a failure of God though, as you pointed out, but rather a failure on our part to do our part.

Love your heart!!

A

And this child...

And this child...

Laurel said: WONDERFUL post!

Laurel Holly said: Yes! Amen!!!!!!! I was just telling a friend today that it is frustrating that we are lacking "senders"...though I didn't use that word.

May the Lord stir the hearts of His children to give, send and equip the called!!!!

8/17/2009 1:09:00 PM

And this child...

How I love This child...

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And this child...

"I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ... that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." ~Ephesians 3:17-19

Comments Anonymous said: such beautiful pictures of beautiful children!

I've been stalking you for awhile :) you inspire me, thank you!

can I ask you a favor, though? some dear friends of ours are passionate about adoption and just adopted a two‐year‐old girl from a difficult circumstance ‐ they have always thought this would be the first of many, mixed with bio kids as well (they have 2 bio boys). but they are stuggling with adjustment and attachment issues. any chance you could offer some real pracitcal advice about the occasional ugliness of bringing what sometimes feels like "someone else's child" into your home? i won't be offended if you don't publish this comment and it's just a humble request for a post sometime in the future, but i know they read your blog and would be encouraged by some practical advice. Thanks! God bless!

And this child...

Sarah Dawn said: OH goodness, the love spills from these photos into my heart. OUr family is open Lord, send your children home.

Blessings from Costa Rica, Sarah Dawn

And this child...

FullPlateMom said: Your kids are BEAUTIFUL!!! Your youngest son reminds me of my youngest son.

‐‐Becky Amy Cherise said: The faces of your dear children are full of God's love and life!!

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I love the heart of your blog and your vulnerability. Thank you!!

Sweet blessings to you!

Amy PAHED said: great pics. and i love your new family pic on the header! :) and i see i';m signed in on the 'other blog'. it's darci at www.feetontheroad.blogspot.com :)

8/19/2009 10:11:00 AM

As time goes by...

Yesterday I spent the day packing up Travis and taking him off to college... today I have spent the morning bawling my eyes out.

Rhonda said: Love the pics, Amy! Your kids are just as precious on the inside as they are on the outside! Love you guys!

Rhonda

It's such a weird feeling. When I walked away from him yesterday, my baby boy, I left him smiling and laughing and happy meeting new friends. Happy to have this new experience, this opportunity in life to further his education, and to discover more about who he is-and the purpose God has for his life.

Andrea H. said: Okay Amy if you are taking these pics than you need to take up photography and make a little side job for fun out of it. These shots are incredible of your beautiful children.

And that Kaden, he is something. I am still coming down there and steal him for my daughter Amira even though he is younger.

And yet I am so sad.

G. Lopez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . said: You've got a beautiful family, what a blessing!

Is it ok to feel jealous?

My best wishes to you guys!!!

Sad at how quickly life goes by, sad that it will never be the same again.

Laurel said: LOVE the pics! Totally want to come meet your beautiful family!

Laurel Holly said: You know what I love about your family? I love how you make seven kids look like a SMALL family!! :) Just a few years ago BA (before Adoption) I thought four kids constituted a BIG family! Seriously. Don't even laugh.

Big families stressed me out.

I had issues!

I was oh so proud of my two kids and one smallish dog family and couldn't fathom wanting more.

I had my life oh so planned out. Since I was so young when I birthed my kiddos, we were going to retire early, travel, you know, see the world and visit the kids occasionally.

Then God gripped my heart for the orphans and I've gotten to see a part of the world I never even dreamed I'd see...all because I said YES to His plans...mine went out the window and I'd never want them back!

Now I look at families like yours and think, "That's not so many kids after all!"

Funny huh?

Blessed Mom of 8 said: What a beautiful post!

The photos are gorgeous too!

AMEN and AMEN!

You are one very blessed Momma!

Love and hugs, Jill

Dardi said: Beautiful pics...can you come take some of the ones I love??? I can't seem to get them to cooperate! :o)

This is exactly what I wanted for him- this is what I prayed about for so long. Yet as I walked into his room this morning, sat on his bed that still smells like a stinky boy, I was overcome with emotions.

Mostly, I think I was mad at myself. Mad for all of the times that I didn't stop and just let myself soak in how truly blessed I was to be living in that exact moment.

Mad that I let time slip by so quickly because I truly didn't realize how quickly things change. Mad because I didn't always stop and appreciate the beauty of the painting he drew me in Kindergarten, the sight of my son sitting in his room playing XBOX, the kiss he blew me as he walked out the door, or the finger smudges he left on the glass door.

I didn't know how fast it would go. I didn't remember to be thankful for every single minute.

Instead I often let the laundry piling up, the errands that needed to be run, or the pressures of this world take priority.

And now, while I am so happy and SO PROUD of the man he has become, my heart is breaking because I just didn't know it would go by so fast.

I love you Travis- thank you for being exactly who you are. I could never, ever ask for more... well, except for it to have not gone so fast.

Make God proud my son- that is all that truly matters.

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Amy said: I'd like to tell you that sophomore year goes easier, but it is so bittersweet to watch them go off. It is good to know that we enjoy being with our children, good to know that all those years we poured into them helped them to be ready for college. But my mom's heart still aches.

Praying for your son today and for you as you adjust.

On a lighter note: I find that it takes me a while to get the number of kids right when I am counting them. :) Debbie T said: You make me cry, my sweet friend, because I have already been feeling that way about Jake and he's only 16!

He just got his first job and I can feel life changing so fast, how you can't relive the moments when they were younger, that it goes so much faster than you ever thought it would. I hope Travis has a wonderful time at college! Hugs! DebbieT The gFamily said: Now I am really crying! Tonight, I watched a few home videos of my boys when they were 2 and 4 years old, and I realized how fast the last two years have gone and how quickly they grow up! I told myself tonight that I need to enjoy each moment with them! I have also been mourning the loss of time with my oldest now in first grade and gone all day!

After reading your blog, I realized that this is just a very tiny glimpse of what is to come! Leaving your son at college had to be very difficult! I am praying for you and your son during this new phase of life! He will do great!!

Phyllis said: Oh, you made me cry, too. As much as I try to cherish the time with Kristen while she's small, I know that I need to do better. You've just reminded me of that even more.

I'll be crying tomorrow as I send her to 1st grade. I guess it's never going to get any easier :) Phyllis Karin said: My oldest is leaving, too, and I am experiencing the same feelings. How does it go by so fast?

Hugs!

Teresa said: The first year my mom took me to college, she helped move all my stuff into the dorm, helped me make my bed, helped to start unpacking things from boxes. And we probably both cried buckets. By the fourth year, she would just dump and go :).

I also thought you'd like to know that I had a dream I met your family :). In the dream I accidentally pulled into your driveway and your husband invited me in. Once inside it was like we'd known each other forever and I was telling you about a recent trip I took to a lake! Wouldn't that be just how the Lord would work! Well, I thought it was cute, so I hope it doesn't creep you out!

Anonymous said: I thought about you ALL day yesterday...wondering how you guys were doing! What an awesome experience this is going to be for him. You guys will remain in my prayers. Such a good reminder ... cherish each and every moment with our children and don't worry so much about all of the little things that get in the way! Take care and keep us posted on how he is doing! Love you all!

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Enjoy technology...When Kaelee did move away to college a couple years ago, I think I talked to her more then than I did her senior year through emails & texts! lol I loved the updates I would get from her.

BIG Hugs ~ Dardi

Heather Kathleen said: My oldest turned nine this year and someone told me that it now means I am at the halfway point. It was not the news I wanted to hear and it was not encouraging at all to me. Each day is a gift. I don't want to rush it away. I am praying for you and this very big moment in your life.

Holly said: thanks for the reminder. I have 4 years left with my oldest son. and yet I still need to remember to treasure the NOW moments.

Live to love and laugh said: Your post made me cry. What a handsome man.

Today was orientation for Ann. I am so glad she decided to go to college in town for a year.

Your post reminded me enjoy what time I have left.

Sean and Lisa said: Amy, Bless your momma's heart. I can so feel your pain.

I appreciate your words. I, unfortunately, too often, rush through my days. Your words are a gentle reminder of how precious and fleeting my moments with my children are and how I should be sucking the life out of each moment and savoring them so much more.

Andrea said: Crazy how it happens huh?! I have one that is in his second year of college, although he is in town, and one starting Kindergarten. Thank you for the reminder! God bless you, prayers for peace momma. ;o) One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: OH man, I am feeling for you right now. I cannot even stand to think about when my kids start going off on their own. But as usual you have handled yourself with such grace. You are an example to many because we all see Jesus in you.

Stacy said: Amy, You just described the EXACT same feelings I went through last year when I took my Wesley to college!

So hard to think about all the times we should have cherished the little moments.

Have you read Let Me Hold You Longer by Karen Kingsbury? If not‐ get it!

Love your blog‐ Your awesome.

Stacy Dardi said: Amyyyyyyyyy‐‐You just got me all choked up, darn it! I was just talking to Joe about this very thing. When we think about adopting another little one, we don't think, "Oh, gosh, now we have 18 more years", we think, "Oh, I hope we can slow these 18 years down b/c we know it's going to go by so fast!"

I'm a little spoiled b/c both of my college kiddos will be living at home again this year (they get free tuition at the university daddy works at, so they decided no student loan AND no debt from on‐campus housing is a good thing!). But still, it is different. Their lives are so full & busy, but it is such an awesome time!

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Laurel said: I know so many people that rejoice when they hit the "empty nest" stage ... but I am so glad that I kept having children after all of my peers stopped.

Baby #6 is flying the nest this year. If I'd stopped at "only 6" than my hubby and I would be moving with no children this fall. So glad that we have 7 more children to bless our lives as we move.

When Travis comes home for his first visit, you will realize that you have a whole new relationship ... and our adult relationships with our 6 adult children are wonderful and amazing. So, rejoice in the fact that you aren't really losing him, you're just moving into a new stage in your relationship. You'll always be his mommy.

mama of 13 Blessed Mom of 8 said: I can attest time goes by way too fast.

Lexi was just a preemie in my arms and now she is 15 entering 10th grade!

I praise God that He came into our lives before she was a teen and that He is opening her heart more and more each year to Him!

I praise God that Travis is full of God's love, grace and mercy!

Trusting big things for him as he walks this journey holding onto God's hand!

Sending you big Mommy hugs!

I love you precious friend!!!

Check out my post from yesterday and see if you kids want to jump 4 joy with Lexi!

Love, Jill Room For More said: I am praying that the rapture will happen before any of our children go to college...preferrably before kindergarten, too.

I am SO excited for Travis and cannot wait to see how God continues to mold and shape him for Kingdom purposes.

You've done your job well, my friend.

love you all, BonkLand Chris and Sarah said: Wow, I just sent my oldest to kindergarten and that was a very hard day for me. I can't even begin to imagine what it's like to send them off to college.

Thank you for reminding me to stop and pay attention to the little things like the paintings in kindergarten.

Mandi said: My oldest son will be 13 in October and I am really struggling with the fact that he is going to be a teenager. It seems like yesterday that he was taking his first steps, saying his first words, and throwing his first football. Oh how time flies.

My prayers will be with you as you deal with the fact that your little boy is now a man.

Blessings, Mandi

8/19/2009 8:51:00 PM

Rice and Beans- Blogger challenge Wanna know what breaks my heart just as much as this?

Here in America we do not often see a child dying of starvation… but we have all witnessed a child who has been raised as selfish and spoiled- being taught the world is revolving around them. I cannot tell you how often I have had people say to me “I don't know how you can handle SEVEN kids- I can’t even stand the two I’ve got!" And that is what breaks my heart.

Our children are our greatest treasures- I promise you God didn’t give them to you and I so that ‘we wouldn’t be able to stand being around them”. We, as a spoiled society, does that to them. I think many times, we as parents, don’t even realize what we are doing.

We are tricked into thinking that we are good parents when we give them everything-because by giving them things we are proving their worth. (and we forget that worth is not found in things).

We look at our beautiful little cherubs and want to give them the world- and we believe we can.

It's this...

We think by lavishing them with gifts, signing them up for every lesson from violin to soccer-we are proving how talented they (so in essence WE) are.

We teach them that they are better than everyone else and that they need to look out for #1.

But really- by doing those things, we are stealing from them.

We are stealing the joy that comes from reaching out to someone else. We are stealing the love that they could 496

He who buys what he does not need steals from himself.

- Author Unknown

experience by truly being able to caring about someone else.

And ultimately, we are stealing Christ from them -because they simply cannot understand why they would need Him- when they are conditioned to be 'good enough’ to do it all on their own.

For the month of September our family has committed to eating beans and rice every night for dinner. We are doing this in order to save money on our grocery bill and then to be able to give that money to the Pass It Forward Adoption Fund- for someone elses adoption. Because we know our children are a result of what we teach them- we want our children to know that it is okay to live less extravagantly so that we can give to someone else. We are not rich- but together we can work to accomplish big things through Christ. Each and every dollar counts- each and every dollar does make a difference.

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By teaching our children to serve and to put others needs firstwe are giving them the tools of success- as parents, as spouses, as citizens and as employees. Yet even more importantly- we are teaching our children to appreciate what they have instead rd of constantly longing for more. Children who are starving in 3 world countries would consider themselves blessed to be served a warm diet of beans and rice daily- and these children are just as important to God as we are. There are so many ways we can teach our children to give of themselves- and to make this world a better place because they are in it.

"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6)

Anonymous said: My nephew and son were carrying on about how they didn't like what we had to offer for dinner. As well as just being little stinkers!

I opened your blog and showed them the pictue of that poor child. I explained to them how that child never is able to say I don't like those shoes, because he has none. How that little boy never had a shirt he complained about because he may only have one. How he could never complain about dinner because he was probably just happy to eat. How he may not even be able to complain about his parents, because he may not have any.

They are only 5 and 7, but by the look on their faces, they understood what I was saying.

Thank you.

Tracy said: thanks for your comment Amy!! And thanks SO much for your blog. You are an inspiration to all of us 'newbies' to the adoption world who are just trying to figure out in which direction God would have us to go. God is definitely using you to challenge us all to think more, trust more, and pray more.

Thank you.

Speaking of beautiful kids ‐ those girls!! oh my goodness. And the pic of your little boy with the hat on the side makes me smile everytime I come here.

So I'd like to start a blogger challenge. Talk to your children, pray with them, work together, and then commit to give something up so that you can give to someone else. It doesn’t have to be rice and beans for dinner for a month- it can whatever you decide. Let them get creative- you may be surprised as how much they truly want to be a part of something more. Let them pray and let them seek God and see where He leads them. I promise you will be blessed.

triplehmoms said: I'm going to talk to my kids/family about doing something like this, but I think that there are things related to food that people can do too. CUT BACK! We don't need the Super Size combo meal. We don't need the giant plate of food. If we would simply cut back on our portion sizes, our pocketbooks would be grateful as would our waistlines.

LEFTOVERS is another way that people can resize their food budget. Perhaps you don't like leftovers. I'm sure that little skinny guy pictured on your blog, Amy, would like them. If you don't like the leftovers, find someone that does. I have a friend that lives alone and has no family other than mine. She loves our leftovers. Being a family of 4, one piece of steak isn't going to provide us all with meat but it will for her. While it doesn't necessarily do anything to my pocketbook or waistline, I know that it helps her and she loves it! sara said: instead of Christmas presents this last year, my husband and I gave each of our 3 kids (15,17,19) the $ we would have spent on them for Christmas at the end of Nov. We told them they had to give it away by Christmas.....any way they wanted. then on Christmas morning, instead of opening a gift we would share how God led us to spend our money. It was

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•Salt ‐ To taste Method 1.Open bag of beans and allow to thaw for a little bit.

2.Add one tablespoon of oil in to a frying pan and add mustard seeds and cover.

3.Soon after the mustard pops add onions, and chopped garlic and sauté for about 2 min till slightly translucent.

4.Add beans, pinch of turmeric and mix well 5.Then add the ground coconut but do not mix. Have the beans mound over the coconut and cook for a bit.

6.Add salt to taste. Keep the pan covered and cook on a low flame for 5 minutes.

7.Stir well and serve hot – goes nicely with rice

Liz emathew@gmail.com

honestly the best Christmas we ever had and I have never seen my kids so overjoyed! My husband and I joined in and it was amazing how god led us all in different directions. But what was the same, was the joy in sharing the experience with each other...priceless.

The Friesens said: Thanks for the challenge, being used to light fires to burn for Jesus! Blessings Christy O said: Great idea! We have eight children home, as of last Friday and people are amazed ‐ we keep saying ‐ it is only eight! The need is so great (five of the eight are adopted from Ethiopia, three just home as of last Friday, two came home two years ago). We don't realize how spoiled/blessed we are!

Makes me crazy! We have dear friends who are beginning an adoption and I am challenged to cut things to help support their adoption! Your post challenged me to look for other ways than the ones I had thought of!

Love your blog!

Christy in WI http://mommyturtle.blogspot.com

Melinda said: I told you before but I just love this idea and I love what it ultimetely stands for. We are all spoiled Americans and you are setting such a great Godly example to your kids. So far we have committed to do a rice night once a week and I am going to challenge my family to expand on that and add more nights of just rice or rice and beans. During our dinner we talk about how blessed we are to choose to eat only rice instead of doing it because it is the only thing we have. I am praying God continues to strip away all of our ugliness and selfishness and transform us into who He designed us to be. Hopefully when we all work together to change our own lives and our family's lives then we will be that much closer to changing the world!

Keep it up friend. You are a blessing!

That Fresh Feeling said: Came across your blog great entry! My husband and I have recently ate the beans and rice for awhile to save some money and to prove to us that we don't need as much as we are used to having. We are spoiled.

I think i need to post some pics that i took of the food we ate.

With min. ingredients we had some fantastic meals....

We are hoping to adopt from Uganda and are in the midst of prayer and fundraising.

Thanks so much for shining your light bright.

Blessings, Amy

Amy Cherise said: We are all about this!! Thank you for sharing powerful truth!!! trustandobey said: Hi, My favorite is when a meal is a little late and I hear this in a frustrated voice..."Mom! We're starving!!!" I have had enough! I have banned my children from saying this anymore...explaining to them that they DO NOT KNOW THE MEANING OF THESE WORDS and they do a great disservice to children around the world who really are starving, some to death! Missing a few meals is the best thing that could happen to the All‐American child these days! But you are right, it is the fault of the parents...me included:( Lisa

Recovering Noah said: I'm giving up coffee and cheese sticks next month. Don't laugh!! Now, Amy, stop it! I said no laughing. (heehee)

Those are my vices. Yes, cheese sticks are a vice of mine. And my nasty, sugar‐y coffee. I figure I'll save $44 and, possibly lose 5 pounds in the process. ;‐)

At the end of September, I'll be donating that $44 to you. Not a lot, I know, but it's a start. :‐) Christine said: Great post! Love your heart. liz said: Your posts affect my heart!

Below is a super‐simplified East Indian beans recipe that might help offer some diversity ‐ if it is helpful will try to find more for you...

Ingredients of Beans Thoran •French cut beans – about 10oz bag •Onion (small) ‐ 3 •Coconut (grated) ‐ One cup •Mustard seed ‐ One teaspoon •Garlic ‐ 2 pod •Oil ‐ One tablespoon •Turmeric ‐ One pinch

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Tara said: What a blessing reading your blog is to me! A friend referred me to your blog and I'm hooked. I have a question: Do you know what family's adoption you are "paying it forward" to support? I have a friend who needs financial support for an adoption they want to pursue. I would love to tell you more.

Are you open to suggestions? Thanks! BTW, I'd also be interested in the beans and rice recipe. my email: tsprunger@yahoo.com StressedBlessed Mom in GA said: I love this and have taken up the challenge. I unfortunately see my youngest girl in the photo of the spoiled boy in your post. My girls eyes are going to be opened to what they haven't yet seen! Thank you for your blog.

For making me think outside the box so many times. My challenge is starting.

BTW, can you give your beans and rice recipe? Mine is gross! :‐)

Chris said: Hmmm! and with no meal planning, that would help SIMPLIFY my life.

I think our family needs to give up ice cream, but I do like the beans and rice idea too.

Shannon‐ said: Here here. I love your posts! It's just me but I have given up buying food at all for a month in order to make an extra donation.

It's easier for me‐ its just me. I'm often at friends or family at dinner time. But it bothers me‐ how I can literally go an entire month without spending a dime on food or drink and still NEVER go hungry. The disconnect between this and the life my child will be coming from is GIANT! Not insurmountable‐ but big!

Kathleen said: I just finished reading "Raising Unselfish Children in a Self‐Absorbed World" by Jill Rigby. It was a great read and sums up perfectly how I am feeling about America's spoiled children. I could not agree more with your post and we strive daily in our home to point our children's eyes and hearts towards the needs of others.

I love your Rice and Bean challenge and we are also having a challenge at our home while saving for our adoption. We are giving up our cable. We have cut the TV!!! The kids have been great about it because they are excited about the blessing of a new sister or brother and it has given us more family time together.

Great post today. Words we all need to hear!!

Kara Grace said: I LOVE this. We have a neighbor you gets a new toy every single day. And when he doesn't get his way he throws a huge fit. And I truely feel bad for him!! His life revolves around "things" but pretty soon when those "things" go away, he'll have NOTHING. If Christ is your #1 then you can have nothing of what doesn't matter but everything that does.

I'll talk to my mom about this GREAT idea; because its GREAT! Karin said: What a great idea!! I'm going to do this with my kids. I hear that same comment, "How can you have 10 kids? I can't stand the two I've got." I honestly don't even know what to say to them. My oldest two have been in the all‐about‐me culture and sadly, I didn't realize that I was falling into the trap, although I did try to be relatively strict (compared to those around us). Now that we have 8 sweet treasures from China and Guatemala, we have less money to go around‐‐but we are SO MUCH happier!! God's way is always better. :) I had a very infuriating conversation with my Christian social worker not long ago that I have been planning to blog about‐‐I hope you don't mind if I use the photo on your blog of the little one in Africa‐‐and link to your blog post. Many need to read it!!

Christie Todd said: Your heart is so special ‐ I can feel it through your words. Continue this blog and your efforts to serve God by serving others. You are an inspiration. Thank you Christie Todd

My heart breaks when I watch parents make two to three meals for a child ‐ throwing all the food away because they won't eat it!

WHAT?????????????

Oh but they don't like it. I can't make them eat something they don't like.

Then it gets worse they reward the child with JUNK FOOD and DESSERT! No meal ‐ no nutrition ‐ ugh! So what has the child learned ‐ demand what they want until they get it.

WHAT?????????????

See you at the next meal. We NEVER refuse a gift from God and the work Mommy did to feed you.

I will never in my life understand people who try to convince me their child just won't eat vegetables. They don't like them.

I'm sorry I have six children through adoption ‐ who didn't grow up eating healthy or know what a vegetable was ‐ yet every night at every meal they eat what is placed before them.

Sorry I could write an entire post on what this does to my stomach. Just like you knowing a child has gone all day without food and you are going to complain about what is in front of you? I don't think so ‐ not here and most certainly not before God.

One or two meals missed is all it takes and they don't complain again. God forbid they do ‐ same thing and we will see you at the next meal.

Oh Lord ‐ please make the way for Amy and me to spend time together here!

Love you Amy! Jill Laurel said: Amen!

Beautiful!

I, too, am so very saddened by the children (even in our churches) that are spoiled beyond belief, and that have absolutely no idea what it means to serve the Lord, or serve others.

Thanks for the GREAT challenge.

mama of 13 Kim said: I LOVE this idea! You have got me thinking and feeling challenged. Our eyes are certainly being opened in China as to how spoiled we are as Americans.

Thank you for such a powerful post!

Love & Blessings, Kim Phyllis said: I've talked to Kristen some and am giving her time to think of something to give up to help a child come home to their family. She didn't go for the rice & beans idea :) One thing

Blessed Mom of 8 said: AMEN!

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I would like to do...as Kristen starts school my daycare expense will go down...I will commit to donate that difference in the month of September.

8/22/2009 1:29:00 PM When I look at you I don't see...

Comments Amy Cherise said: Beautiful. I will never forget this post. Sweet blessings!!

More mouths to feed, more bills to pay,

Anonymous said: Thanks for refocusing my perspective...It gets a little "off" sometimes in the day to day! :o)

Lisa H.

more worries, more pains, more hassles,

Bethany said: Love it!!! It absolutely shows how I feel. :)

more cost,

His Hands His Feet Today said: and another resounding AMEN! :)

more burdens or more work.

Kim said: Amen! trustandobey said: Those of us who have tasted and seen, know this is true. Adoption is a gift!

Renee said: I love this!!!!

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: Had Eli's Gotcha Party today and I felt the same way. Wish you lived closer to me. Love you Melinda said: That was awesome!! Thank you for posting this Amy, you have blessed me yet again with your heart and your words. Love ya friend!!!

Gardenia said: ... and LOTS and LOTS of LOVE. Just such a beautiful picture too.

What I see is...

Dardi said: Joe gave me a frame that a woman specially makes by hand with Punkie's pic right in the middle shortly after she came into our lives. It reads:

"Lord, look down from heaven above & bless this special child with love. Protect & guide this little one, until each & every day is done. Remind us often that it's true: this little life is a GIFT from you. A miracle You've sent our way; Lord bless this little child today."

For sure..........

A chance, a hope, a promise, a choice, a person, a dream, a life,

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love it! Because it is sooo true!

a blessing, Holly said: and THAT, my friend, is why God chose you...AGAIN!

a gift.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Beautiful!

How is Travis making out?

How are you holding up?

Thinking of you and sending big HUGS!

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Love you, Jill

8/23/2009 4:02:00 PM

The reality Sometimes as donations have come in for the Pass It Forward Adoption Fund- I don’t know the story behind who sent it or why. I don’t get to hear how God has spoken to the person who is giving… or why they chose to give when there are so many other things they could do with their money instead.

But I do pray over each person, and over each donation-asking God to bless them and their obedience to His call. I know that whether it was a $1.00 donation or $100 donation- that person made a sacrifice of their time, of their money, and of themselves. And it is beautiful. .

And yet sometimes I do get to hear their story…Sometimes I get to find how God has spoken to them... I get to hear how He is working in their lives, changing them, molding them… and through it, I too, am changed.

place where she had the opportunity to choose obedience in God- or choose herself.

She went onto explain that 18 days before she had made 3 purchases frivolously and knew in the pit of her stomach that she had done something that was displeasing to God. Yet despite the feelings and various things that had happened surrounding the purchases, she chose to not return the itemsall the while feeling horrible.

She explained that she didn’t understand why there are times that she felt the need to argue with God because ultimately the only thing that matters in her life is Him. As the tears ran down my face onto the pages of her letter, the ink began to smudge.

Then I began to ask myself how many times had I done the exact same thing?

How many times had I chosen to argue with God, rationalize my decision-and then ignore him- when I too knew down deep in my heart that the only thing that truly mattered to me was Him?

And then I had to search myself even further and ask myself if I would have done what she did next…

A couple of weeks ago I went to my mailbox and found this…

Packing up her purchases she drove back to the store and returned the items… and then she did something else… she listened. She took the time and really listened to God… listened to him tell her that the money had another purpose.

For two days she listened and waited for God to show her… and then that night, she opened my blog, read our story, and she knew. She saw the need and she knew. She didn’t fight with God anymore, she didn’t rationalize keeping the money.

There was absolutely no benefit for her involved- she just saw the need and responded to it. She responded to God.

A beautiful picture of pure obedience.

Not only was I taken back by the $65.00 and some change that came spilling out, but what really knocked the wind out of me was the story behind the money.

It is a story of pure obedience and awareness- and it rocked me to the core.

Inside the envelope was a hand written letter of the story of how God had spoken to this beautiful girl and brought her to a

Hearing her story taught me more than I ever thought possible.

I had to come face to face with the fact that there have been many times in my life I have had that ‘pit in my stomach’ kind of feeling over something- and yet I chose to ignore Him.

I had to come face to face with the face that there have many times in my life I spent money on myself- spent money on 501

Trish said: Amy, thanks so much for stopping by my blog and saying hi, I've had you under my favorites for a long time now, you truly inspire me! Looking forward to following your journey to your newest little one. By the way, I loved this story!!!!!!!

things that had no eternal value, out of my own desire to bring pleasure to myself.

I had to come face to face with the fact that many times I have made excuses and many times was I careless with the purchases I made- without any thought to anyone else.

Brian and Audra said: Just left you an award my blog :) Eight Isn't Enough said: HI Amy: Thanks for leaving a comment on my blog. I cannot believe that you have a fund for adoptions that says almost what we are saying. Ours was to be for our adoption (but not sure if that will happen any more) but then our kids went to VBS and our African children learned the song, " It only takes a spark", we decided to resurrect our jar and change it to Pass it On orphan fund....I guess great minds think alike:‐)

I look forward to reading more about your blog and the fundraising ideas you have.

BTW: Our chickens are meat birds, and I too am kind of afraid of them. But our special needs daughters who LOVES ALL animals tends to the daily needs of the birds...I just help catch them when it's time to have them culled. But I would like to (someday) have chickens for eggs...the health benefit alone is worth it...and any money we can raise to help orphans and widows, is a "good thing".

Blessings!!!

I had to come face to face with the fact that many times I have kept the purchases only to find that they didnt bring me the happiness I originally thought. And many times I kept the item, only to throw them in the garage sale box several months later…all the while someone else went without.

I had to come face to face with the fact that many times I chose to keep the items, only to see them still sitting there months later collecting dust… all the while a constant reminder that I chose 'them' over Him.

Lord, please forgive me...

Heavenly Father, I lift up this amazing girl and the example of pure obedience she has taught me. Her story will forever be etched into my heart. Forgive me for the times Lord that I put my own desires before the things that truly matter to you.

Forgive me for the opportunities that I had to make a difference in someone else’s life- and instead I chose myself.

But more than anything else God I pray that you change me. I pray that you make me more like you and more like my friend who chose to listen and chose to obey. Thank you Lord, and thank you my friend for your example and for what you have taught me. May I be forever changed.

Cari Bacon said: Thank you for sharing this girl's story. It is very moving and powerful. As I follow your blog, I am so excited to see the increase in the adoption fund, knowing that someday soon the special miracle of a child or children will be able to join their family all because of people's obedience to God. It truly is the very best way to show that we believe.

Christi U. said: Amy ‐ It was a pleasure to talk with you last week..I've been passing along your blog info to everyone I can think of! You are an amazing woman and it is evident that the Lord is working in your heart and life.

May God bless you and your family!

(and can i say that i hope we get to meet sometime in person!)

“Lord, let our eyes be opened.” Matthew 20:33

Tami and Bobby Sisemore Family said: THAT is wonderful! I was just directed to your sight by a friend who told me about it!

I think this is wonderful! :) You definitly appear to me to be a praying woman so PLEASE pray for our family and our Jeremiah waiting in Taiwan.

Thanks, Tami Sisemore www.tillGodbringsthemhome.blogspot.com

Comments brandyleewindham08 said: W.O.W.

Just nothing but awesome.

Andrea H. said: Wow, that story brought tears to my eyes talking about "obedience" especially coming from a young girl.

Thanks so much for sharing. God knew why he chose you for this journey. Your heart and the love you have FOR HIM will raise much more money.

That Fresh Feeling said: Oh my goodness. that story gave me goose bumps. It reminded me of someone this weekend that sent a check to us because they forgot to send a wedding gift to

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us when we were first married. The person told us that God was calling him to send it now. What a true blessing. God's hands are at work in each of us. And these two people have realized that and turned the control all over to God.

It reminds me of the passage Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.: Colossians 3:2

I know God will provide for us...he has in the past and he has now and I know he will in the future. I will never doubt that.

Thank you for sharing this. darci said: I LOVE this story. can you please e‐me at mhovdestad at hotmail dot com. for some reason i could not do the link on your blog..but we would like to donate, too. thanks amy! darci Andrea said: Thank you for sharing, so powerful! And what a reminder!

Blessings Andrea

A friend of mine spent some time talking with her daughter about The Pass It Forward Adoption Fund and how it was important for each one of us to give up something so that we could give to someone else.

Renee said: Wow! How beautiful and how humbling..Thanks for sharing!

Gardenia said: beautiful story, beautifully told by you. thanks for this inspiring message.

Karin said: What a wonderful testimony! I, too, am convicted over some of my own careless purchases when I could have spent the money on a child in need. Thank you so much for posting this. I will think of it every time I consider a purchase. :) Are These Kids All Yours? said: WOW just what my heart needed to hear. We are starting our adoption journey‐ again.

We know how much we need, and have saved some. We are planning on working to do whatever necessary to bring our next child home. I have really thought all day about purchases we make on a regular basis.....and how much could we save‐ how much could we save if we wouldn't be so selfish? My hears eyes have been opened. Thank you for your sharing. Keep on‐ so more may know God's heart for the orphan!!!!

She talked to her about how our family was going to eat beans and rice for dinner for the month of September so that we would be able to cut back on our grocery bill, therefore having more to give.

She then asked her daughter, Kristin, if she would be willing to do the same...

After much though, Kristin decided that no, there was just no way she was willing to eat beans and rice for a month... however, she would be willing to eat CHEETOS every night for dinner for the month of September.

And that my friends is why I ADORE kids.

Holly said: To God be the glory great things He has done...and IS doing!!

May each of us have eternity stamped on our minds as we go about our daily business.

Comments Hope said: WOW! That is amazing! What a wonderful heart this lady has!

8/26/2009 9:32:00 AM

whenpigsfly said: Whata blessing ofa story!

Linda praying and waiting for Daniel, Juniro and Diamoh in Liberia Ali said: We have a pickle jar going too! It hasn't been easy getting many donations, but every little bit helps. I was very encouraged reading your blog today! coming up with the funds to adopt can feel impossible.

Blessings,

Why I love kids...

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Ali My God Given Mission Field

8/27/2009 6:33:00 PM

Andrea H. said: Amen! That is why I love kids also. They come up with the darnest answers.

And they're off...

Karin said: That is hilarious! :)

to a good start!

trustandobey said: Classic!!!

Gardenia said: darling story. kids do say the cutest things. and they are sincere!

That Fresh Feeling said: I am hungry for Cheetos right now! can't think of the last time i had them.

thanks for sharing! darci said: that is a great story! :) i also love the comment about the quarter found on the playground. i love the heart of a child..so BIG! ( I finally got it to work..after getting kicked offline twice more..hmmm..) darci

School is in full swing and everyone is happy with their new teachers and new classes. Miss Aleigha started kindergarten this year and now it's only mommy and Kaden home all day. I think he's finding me rather boring actually. Apparently the big brothers and sisters know how to play race cars and trains way better than mommy does.

Every morning he puts on his backpack and informs me that he is going to school too. I am so not ready for that. I'm already missing them being gone all day long, but I love seeing their smiles and hearing all about their day when they get home. Life is so sweet, every single minute of it.

Tami and Bobby Sisemore Family said: awwwww :) so cute :)

Blessings, Tami PRAYING JEREMIAH HOME QUICKLY Laurel said: Very cute!

Laurel Holly said: I am laughing at Dardi's story...lots of pickles to eat!

Such a sweet boy!

Giving up cheetos might be a bit much huh? OH my gosh kids are fantastic!

Dardi said: Soooo funny!

We officially have a pickle jar! I talked to the kids & told them even if they found a penny somewhere, it counts! I jokingly told Kade that he was not allowed to swipe anybody's lunch money! :o) So, we went to open house at his school the other night, & of course we had to check out the playground before we left. I hear Kade yelling, "Mom! Mom!" I look up & he is SPRINTING towards me holding up a quarter he found in the mulch. I still get choked up thinking about it. It became contagious when we got home. The kids have investigated every crevice & come up with quite the collection of change. Kam even offered her $20 babysitting money she just made!

Now, if we could just finish eating the pickles............

Shannon‐ said: And this is Momma's way to get her kids to never want cheeto's again after September!!! Sounds like a win‐ win!!

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~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ said: Keegan looks so much like Todd in that picture!

They all look so sweet and excited for a new school year. Man, that Kaden is so edible. Good thing he's not home with me all day, he'd have bite marks all over.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: Oh how precious!

The kids are beautiful!!!!

Love the new backpacks with their names on them!

Hugs and love!

Jill Kim said: Precious post. Love the photos and the verse!

Love & Blessings from Hong Kong, Kim

Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12

Doreen said: have a great school year.. great pictures ! trustandobey said: So cute!!! Love the argyle socks!!!

Realizing that I don't know how to spell argyle. Oh well...

Gardenia said: love the knee socks, and the back packs, and the big big smiles. how did you get all your kiddos to line up in a row like that!!??! :)

Comments

Dardi said: So sweet...How long do you think the new shoes will stay shiny? lol

Punkie has been doing the "I've got a backpack & I'm going to school" thing too...How cute they are!!!

Enjoy all the stories...I LOVE the show & tell time!

Love ya ~ Dardi

Adeye said: LOVE the pics.

I have been following along and LOVE all you are doing to help families adopting children. You have a HUGE heart, Amy. Enormous, actually.

You are one of God's amazing treasures on this earth.

Love and hugs Phyllis said: Glad everyone likes their classes. Such cute pictures and I love the backpacks.

Phyllis Lisa said: LOVE the knee socks! :) Look like good days! :)

8/29/2009 11:30:00 AM

Andrea H. said: Okay Amy, I noticed those socks right away.

They are so cool. I just got Amira some tights for her birthday and they look funky like those socks.

Another chance for you to participate in a silent auction item for the Pass It Forward Adoption Fund...

If you are interested in being the proud owner of this beautiful "Children of the World" ornament and at the same time be a part of another family being able to bring an adopted child home just email me your bid at block amy at hotmail dot com.

Karin said: They are so cute‐‐love the socks! :) Mine start next week and I will be so sad to see them go.

SupermomE11 said: They are all so beautiful!

And I LOVE the socks!!!! :) Hugs, E Sean and Lisa said: How precious each of them are! Must echo the others here...LOVE the socks! LOL! Yes, you blink and they are grown. :) Enjoy your Kaden and mommy time... angie said: I love your girls socks! Such cute kids you have!!

Kaden is adorable and as I type, my 2.5 year old Preston has his backpack on and wishes he could go to school too!

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I don’t know about you, but that embarrasses me. It embarrasses me to live in a country where people are complaining daily about the economy- but yet we can still spend 1.15 billion dollars on a football stadium.

It embarrasses me that we, as a country, are aware that there are people starving and dying of illness that we now consider chronic but treatable, and yet we continue to turn our backs- and look towards the game field instead.

Thanks for making the difference!

It embarrasses me that people say that they have had to cut back on their ‘giving’… and yet somehow find a way to purchase tickets to that game.

This new stadium holds up to 100,000 people…and people are purchasing those tickets.

One article stated that the average family of four will spend over $700 at one game by simply purchasing the $149 seats in the highest desk, paying $40 to park, buying souvenirs and then consuming 4 burgers, nachos, one popcorn and a few soft drinks.

8/30/2009 7:08:00 PM

The Cost

Now before any of you dedicated sports fans start getting mad at me for this- let me clarify something.

I love football.

I am even guessing God probably loves football. He more than likely delights in watching his people playing and enjoying the game. But what I think God has a problem with is us putting other things (football included) above Him. I think God has a problem when someone is eager and willing to pay $149 for a seat to the game, but is unwilling to give $25 a month to sponsor a child...

Today in our Sunday paper was an article about the new Dallas Cowboy stadium that was just finished this past summer. This new state of the art stadium cost 1.15 billion dollars (plus) to build. The video screen alone was an estimate of 40 million dollars. 40 million dollars to show replays of the game.

Can you just image the kind of world we would live in if we all decided to spend 1.15 billion dollars on God’s kingdom instead of the football kingdom?

Can you just imagine the kind of world we would live in if we all decided to give $149 towards feeding the hungry instead of over feeding ourselves at the game?

Would you let that sink in for just a minute?

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Can you just image the kind of world we would live in if we all were as excited about winning souls as we were about winning the game?

So can I ask you a favor? Could you stop what you are doing right now and pray...

Pray with me for all of the families who are working so hard to come up with the money for their adoption and pray for the child(ren) they are trying to bring home. And then would you also please pray for the children and families God wants to touch through the Pass It Forward Adoption Fund?

The need is so huge… there are so many precious families out there right now that I know about who are trying to adopt...some I know personally, some just through blogs, and many of them are really struggling.

God has called them to adopt, they have stepped up to the plate and said yes to God…. Yet they are facing huge number signs- and it is a scary place to be.

Can you pray with me that we can become that stadium full of fans who will cheer them on?

Can you just image the kind of world we would live in if we all raised our kids to worship God instead of worship sports players?

Can you pray with me that we will invest into these families more than we would be willing to pay for a seat at the Dallas Cowboys football game?

Can you pray with me that we would search inside ourselves and really be honest about where our priorities are lining up with Gods?

Will you be a part of the team that works together to win this one for these families- win this one for God? Because after all, He wrote the greatest play book of all.

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Comments fpatlan said: Amy...I love this! This is a sore spot for me too. I love sports and although I can't really sit through a game I still love the concept of playing and working as a team but the amount of money that goes into it is absurd and I don't see why the players are getting paid so much to "play" but it all comes down to the fans and what they are willing to pay. If the fans would just shift their focus on other things the world would be so much better.

Can I repost this on my blog...? I have wanted to say something like this but just didn't know how to say it and you have said it soooo well.

Blessing Amy. Jennifer said: Shaking head in agreement!!!

They could have sent me that money I'll adopt if they don't want too LOL!!!!

Jennifer working on Adoption #2, Child #5

fighting along side and doing so much to change the ideas of the world‐ if only for their family and those their family comes into contact.

I think what I love so much about Mother Theresa's view is that she knew she wasn't going to be able to change people's views or lifestyles... that SHE could only do what SHE could do and no amount of obstacles or seeing time after time how the world was could bring her joy and passion for the Lord and for those hurting and in need to an end.

Thank you for continuing your call to action‐ even with newspaper articles in your face about the reality of what we are up against.

THANK YOU. SupermomE11 said: This is a wonderful, kick butt post Amy!!!!

Thank you for writing it.

Awesome!

Love E Beautiful Mess said: Hey, I happened upon this blog today and immediately thought of you‐‐

Not sure how your pay‐it‐forward program is working but at a minimum I figured I would pass her along and see what God does!

http://www.strivingfor31.com/2009/08/god‐said‐it‐i‐believe‐ it.html ManyBlessings said: Linking this post from my blog too. Thank‐ you for putting this into words.

That Fresh Feeling said: WOW....your writing is so captivating and true. I am on my knees as well. You have moved me to tears.

Blessings, Amy

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: My family just had this discussion yesterday about pro sports players and the excess that is spent on "the sport". It truly makes me sick. I am so glad you posted this. GOod grief, why can't Oprah do a show on this topic...

I'm proud of you.

darci said: http://defendingcontending.com/2009/09/01/how‐to‐know‐ if‐your‐church‐isn%e2%80%99t‐spending‐enough‐on‐ missions/

I had just read the above link when I read yours...so powerfully written, and so convicting, thanks again Amy. I am always trying to keep it in mind, that 'to whom much has been given much will be required'. This life here is just a blip for us, and yet it is so EASY to get caught right up in filling it and our houses and garages with more and more stuff. Thanks for the powerful message here. darci

Jen said: Amy,

what a great post! I'm looking forward to seeing who the "pass it forward" fund brings home!

Sweet Joni said: AMEN! LOVE your post! Couldn't have said it any better & it's not just football people ‐ consider all things/places we put before God & HIS kingdom!

Jocelyn said: I am on my knees (well, not at this very moment‐ I come back up off my office floor to type this comment). My heart is heavy, heavy. Thank you for this incredible check of where our focus is, where our minds our and where our hearts are. It sometimes feels like too big a challenge, too much of a heaviness, which then leads me to feel depressed, angry and useless. Right now I am trying so hard to make things work so that I can bring more kiddos in to my home, into my life... to love them if only for a moment, but the obstacles sometimes seem too much. I feel we are fighting with a world that just doesn't value the least of these... and it is wonderful to know that there are others (you and your family for one) that are

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jajbs said: I was saying the exact same thing to a friend of mine this afternoon, but it was not about a stadium. It was about the other frivilous things that we spend money on. The Lord has been really stirring my heart and showing me the things I need to cut out and what I can do. Adoption changed our life and I feel that we should do it again soon, but are still paying off the adoption 2 years later. God is faithful and I know He will show me ways to do what we feel called to do. Thank you so much for staying so truthful and faithful to bring this message to all of you readers. You are a woman of God and it blesses me to have found your blog.

amanda

Debbie said: I feel the same way! Thanks for messages that are so inspirational and thought provoking. Praying!!!

Jennifer said: Great post and so, so true! It can be so difficult which is why we need these kind of reminders daily. Thanks! :‐ ) Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love the correlation!!! I think of that everytime I see so many spend money like it is nothing‐ and I think you could feed a child/family for a whole month with just that item you bought. Or do you know how many children could be brought home with that kind of money! As for the cheering section‐ ask our staff at camp how much we cheer over one lost soul that finds Christ‐ football games have nothing on our celebrations!!!!!!! God GOD!!!!!!

Love the post‐ spread the word around!!!!

Kari said: Amy ‐ What a powerful post!!!!!

You heart is crying out for justice and causing us to seek our part in establishing that justice as God leads. Thank you!!!

Thank you for being willing to speak out.

This is a must not miss post ‐ passing it on this afternoon to friends and family.

May we all stop, pray and listen to what God would put on our hearts today! :) Kari in CO

inter net is basic. In some countirs, inter net is a luxury, agreed.

My computer, its old, and slow, also would be considered a luxury in some countries. I think my point is, just because we CAN have such razzamatazzzzzz structures and possessions, and just because some company or contractor will build them, does not mean we NEED them. Our priorities are way off whack if we truly believe that more ticket sales in a bigger building will improve quality of life for anyone who is outside a stadium when the starting whistle blows.

As I wait for my desperately ill baby to be released from Liberia, and my two "just" hungry older but so far healthy children to be allowed thier adoptions in Liberia, I'm looking at what we don't need, and what we can do to bless others and help those in need. It won't be to buy tickets for the new football season so we can sit in comfier seats, but it might be to find some seats that are comfortable at a garage sale for the homeless shelter. NOT holier‐than‐thou, please. Just seeing how blessed we are and what it really means to be a follower of Jesus in America in 2009.

Linda Meredith said: Thank you for the wonderful post! I just have a quick question... do you know of any organizations that do grants for domestic adoptions... we've been a little misled on our adoption and are at a little bit of a loss on how to ensure Gabriel stays home with no bumps in the road. I've looked for hours online and am getting no where... thanks Debbie said: I came here through Jill's blog. How true your words really are! Sports are wonderful and enjoyable BUT the amount of time, energy and money that is spent is ridiculous.

When Christians get excited the world calls us fanatics. When lovers of football get excited the world calls them fans!

Janet said: Thank you! Can I just put your posts on my blog everyday?! You always say it sooo well (and I don't). God has gifted you with this ability to get the point across.

We were out running errands one morning after the public schools had started. We saw kids driving to school in brand new cars, luxuray cars, even a porsche. (I'm sure I cannot even fathom what the insurance on that would be!) Seeing a society of spoiled kids (and parents) truly is sickening at times. Janet mom to 5‐‐3from China.

Gardenia said: Yes He did. great message.

Amy said: Kari, I couldn't agree with you more. We are blessed to be in this country. Can I ask you though if YOU were the one starving would you have this same view as you have now?

There is NO EXCUSE for world hunger. NONE. I fully admit I am just as guilty as the next. And that is why I am TRYING to change because one day I will be held accountable. No excuses, no arguing the obvious anymore.

As you stated‐ we live in a country where God has provided more than the basics‐ but I guarantee you He didn't do that so that we could keep it for ourselves.

Valerie said: I"m praying!!!

Kelly said: Well Amy...as usual you speak truth. Thank you for this...God's word is truth..you can't believe it and believe that the football stadium makes Him happy...no way... people can argue til the cows come home....but we either chase after Jesus or we don't.. maybe it's cliche...but what would Jesus do? We need to look at how he lived His life and apply it the best we can...it is possible...we can make excuses or we can make a difference. Bless you Amy...I'll be linking to this post.

Talley Images said: I so agree with you on this... no matter what the pp said

whenpigsfly said: Amen Amy!!!!!!!!!!!!! As I mentioned to you in an other post, when our homeless shelters are dumps and our athletes have the best that there is to offer from faster squirting water bottles to the shiniest helmets to the tallest stadium... be it from private donations or whatever, something is wrong.

Does a taller stadium cause athletes to play better ? Somehow newer neon lights can do what illegal steroids might do for athletic performance? The new and enhanced prices for tickets have further promised that my children and I will not attend a sporting event in the new glitzy best. We didn't think tickets BEFORE the new improvements were worth the price, and now, with my 3 children waiting in Liberia , getting less than a bowl of rice a day to eat, we are even more opposed to the unnecessary oppulence of the new stadiums popping up. MY

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Beautiful Mess said: Wow! That is crazy. And sad. And of course I will PRAY!

We must wake up (self included) and change what we are doing and how we are doing it.

I recently commented on an article in our newspaper (Jacksonville Jaguars) "complaining" about our cheapest tickets being $50 and saying they should be cheaper‐‐I was assaulted verbally because apparently that is cheap for football ticket‐ and according to your story I see that is true‐well to me THAT is still CRAZY expensive!

we spend on shoes a year. On McDonald's. On landscaping! (We pay every year for green grass? And flowers that die? ‐ while shoveling mulch, I'm always thinking, does God really think this should be a priority??) So many little things that all add up. So many little people we could save instead.

Sad what is important and sad "who" is not important.

Thank you for this post.

Thank you for you heart. You are such an encouragement to me.

God bless!

Kari said: Interesting post and interesting responses.

I'm all for adoption (am going through the process now), am against all the bail outs of private companies etc. and think that some materialistic things in my life are a waste BUT we live here, in a country where our god has provided more than the basics. That stadium, built with private funds, brings TAX dollars to your area. It helps to pave the roads you drive on, subsidize various social programs and run the government etc.

Is there tax money that is wasted and poorly managed?

Absolutely. But then again, not all of your money (or mine) is put to the best use possible even at our own homes. We have luxuries (internet, cameras etc.) that we don't part with. This stadium is no different.

So unless you are willing to give up EVERY little extra in your life I don't think "people in glass houses should throw stones". faithfulremembrances said: Fantastic Post....

Blessed Mom of 8 said: STANDING OVATION my sweet friend!

I'm cheering you on and every other family who has grasped the power of a mighty God who is calling them to do and are doing it!!!!!

Sending super big hugs your way!

Love you ‐ Jill PS I'm going to link to this post today too!!! Awesome job!

Kelli said: AMEN AMEN AMEN. I am right there with you on this and couldn't have said it better myself. Love football and etc, but I always think about what that money could have done. God help us to be grateful for the fun that is available to us, but to never forget that there are so many who need our help!

Audrey said: Amy ‐ this so touched me. We are here ‐ seeing every day the need. It is breaking our hearts. This post so perfectly says exactly what we are feeling right now. I'm going to link to it. Thanks for speaking my mind :) Valerie said: You are so right! Saying some prayers right now.

SiLa said: Amen!

James 1:27 Family said: I will be praying for your family starting today as you begin your "rice and beans adventure" tomorrow.

I love this post. I'm right there with you. Just another mental picture... in the United States alone, there are enough children waiting to be adopted to fill that stadium TWICE. Can you imagine seeing it? Can you imagine every seat being filled TWICE with kids in foster care who are waiting to be adopted?

This doesn't even touch on the number of children living in orphanages outside of the US.

Sometimes I like to think that people just don't know about this problem. Then reality hits and I see that they know but they just turn away.

"Once our eyes are opened, we can't pretend we don't know what to do. God who weighs our hearts and keeps our souls knows that we know, and holds us responsible to act ..." ‐‐ Proverbs 24:12

Much love to you!

Amy Andrea said: Amen and Amen!

SUNSHINE said: You are so right. This kind of idolatry makes me so angry and I am sure it makes our Father God angry as well. I fight against it at home, as I live with athletic boys:‐) Tracy said: Amen sister!!! What is so sad is that it's not just football. It's the amount we spend on coffee a year. The amount

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E.T.'s Mom said: Yes, yes, yes! And thank you.

Jenny said: Amen!!! My husband vents almost daily about the new baseball stadium. Seven games a year to build this multi‐ million dollar stadium...he also gets worked up over the Government bailing out the vehicle industry. The government could have fed every single person in the WORLD for less than the bail out!!!!

As a previous post had stated, Thank you for being real and thank you for standing up and saying what we all feel in our hearts.

Andrea H. said: Oh Amy, what a great post again. All of this worldlyness is even more sickning when you are just returning from your adoption trip. That is why I keep doing my mission trip so I can stay grounded, always. You know what gives me a bad pit in my stomach is when we celebrate 4th of July and New Years. I love the 4th. It is one of my most favorite holidays.

But have you ever thought how many billions are being spent on the fireworks? Just another food for thought or however this sentence goes. Love you.

Mandi said: You are such an inspiration to me. I love your passion for adoption and for the orphans. I love how you can turn a simple football game around to a lesson in adoption ministry. YOU ROCK!!

Holly said: Oh Amy...you are so right. Sometimes I am just so ashamed of us as a group of citizens of this blessed nation.

My heart is so full right now.

I just want to thank you for being real...for loving Jesus without apology and for loving His children.

Keep running the race girl. love, Holly trustandobey said: I agree too! I think we live in a modern‐day Babylon. We worship everything BUT God. Mostly we worship SELF and the proof is written all over our checkbooks!

Lisa Recovering Noah said: Wow, Amy. What a fantastic and convicting post!!! I'm going to have to link you from my blog. I totally agree 100% with everything you've just said. Could not have said it better.

Leslie His Hands His Feet Today said: Amen! Goes along with what I was "venting" earlier this week :) INVEST IN PEOPLE ... PEOPLE!!!

Love ya, K

Tonight starts off our 30 days of beans and rice for dinner. The kids are having fun joking with me asking me over and over what's for dinner tonight then saying "Oh yeah, we don't have to ask that anymore- it's beans and rice!" And then they begin whispering how they are going to conveniently be eating at their friends houses a lot this month.

(Sneaky little boogers aren't they?) All joking aside, we are excited to make this commitment as a family, pulling together to try to make a different- even if it's only a small one.

natali said: amen!

Dardi said: I am with you. Joe & I were talking about this not too long ago. Seems everyone wants to be part of something bigger, but not everybody "gets" that some kinds of bigger actually leave you feeling pretty empty. Ever noticed how so many celebs & pro athletes make the news for doing stuff that doesn't make any sense? Seems they are very sad & unfulfilled.

I wish they would focus more on the ones that "give back" to help people realize that that is where the success really comes.

Living in the fast lane usually just ends up in a crash.

I will be praying...Love ~ Dardi

In all actuality though, while we are having fun joking with each other-It really is no laughing matter.

Because for far too for many- it is a reality.

the Matt family said: thanks for writing this... i will be reposting it on my blog. very convicting!!

9/1/2009 3:47:00 PM

So much to be thankful for...

For many people- beans and rice are a luxury. For many mothers in this world- when asked what is for dinner tonight their answer, once again, is 'nothing'. And for many children, who are living on the streets, abandoned and alone, again the answer is nothing.

I don't know what God is going to teach us on this journey... but I do know that tonight when we bow our heads and thank God for the food that was prepared for us- the countless faces of beautiful people around the world who are going without will come to mind. And the families who are doing all they can trying to find yet another way to save to bring an orphan home- will come to mind.

I also wanted to say a special thank you to my blogging buddies who are on this journey with me.

For those of you who are willing to make a sacrifice for someone else... for those of you who ARE helping to make a difference- I cannot thank you enough.

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It only takes a spark to get a fire going- and I believe that together we can- be the change.

Lots of love ‐ Jill

Please stop by and encourage them. Please tell them thanks for being the difference. And if you or anyone else you know is taking the challengewhether it be beans and rice or not- please let me know so I can be praying for you.

Angie said: I can just hear my boys...beans, beans, a wonderful fruit. The more you eat...well, you know the rest! Really, though, thanks for sharing!!

Karin said: I am so imspired by this idea. Haven't talked the family into it yet, but we do have a missionary jar that the kids contribute to. It always ends up going to orphans. :) Still love your idea and may try it.

http://nationsaroundourtable.blogspot.com/2009/ 08/challenge.html http://queendebbee.blogspot.com/

Kelli said: This is WONDERFUL...God bless you all on this journey and for bringing us along. Awareness is critical and I pray that this effort will bring forth amazing changes!

Dardi said: Chicky, you bless my socks off! I am encouraged to do better & be better every time I "speak" with you or read your posts!

While we are not doing beans & rice, we have been making many adjustments in the way we have been doing things b/c we are inspired. I'm trying to take the time to research deals & make my trips worthwhile (went to store last week & saved $66 on a $120 order...woohoo!) & REALLY thinking twice about purchases of any type. We also find great joy in LOOKING for the ways God provides & taking the time to give thanks (for example: Punkie needed new shoes‐‐flip flop weather is quickly fading‐‐so we were headed out. Got a $20 coupon in the mail that very day, so we got her good shoes for $9.97!).

Finally, the pickle jar is washed & on the counter. What a blessing it has been to watch the kids thinking of places they might find change or other ways we might save money. Even more, it has been an awesome conversation starter about how God loves children & wants them to have families & that HE WILL PROVIDE.

Okay, this probably could have just been a blog post in itself, but, you know.........

Comments Joy Portis said: We are taking the challenge with you Amy! We started tonight and we are all very excited to see what the Lord is going to teach us this month! Thank you for sharing this wonderful idea! I pray the Lord will give us other ideas to help teach ourselves, our children and others about sacrifice and the reality others face on a daily basis!

It's a joy to walk this journey with you AbiQ said: Me and my hubby did that a few months back to save money to go to Uganda!! Tip: Veggie chili. Beans and rice with a twist. ;) Janet said: What your doing IS big! Little is much when God is in it‐‐ agreat old hymn. The lessons you are teaching your kids (and US) is so inspiring. Janet Blessed Mom of 8 said: Here is another yummy recipe:

1 large bag or container of organic spinach rice beans organic canned is fine organic frozen peas

*Cook rice according to directions (we add in coconut oil and spices while it is cooking). *Cook beans in a separate pot *Add frozen peas into the rice pot for the last seven minutes.

Mix them in and put lid on tightly. *We often add in non gmo butter when we put in the peas.

Put spinach on plate ‐ then add rice to middle ‐ put beans on top.

You can enjoy with homemade salsa, slices of avocado and hummus too!

Enjoy!

9/2/2009 8:04:00 AM

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Your life is God's gift to you...

What you do with it is your gift to God.

Comments Crystal said: Love this ‐‐so true!!! You are adorable Amy love your blog!

AbiQ said: BTW, your family is BEAUTIFUL Andrea H. said: Thanks for the reminder Amy. Why do you always have these cute pics of your little man? I love him.

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Love that saying and love the pic you posted too! natali said: beautiful!

Kim said: I am so thankful to have found your blog. I love everything you write. Thank you for sharing your gift of writing, your beautiful family, and His wisdom with your readers!

Love & Blessings from Hong Kong, Kim

Want to own one of these really great t-shirts AND help out with the Pass It Forward Adoption Fund??

Go here www.everychildsright.wordpress.com and then go to PURCHASE to order one!

Please make sure that you put Pass It Forward Adoption Fund in the notes section of paypal so they know who you are supporting. For every tshirt that is sold under our name we get $5.00 to donate for someone elses adoption!

Blessed Mom of 8 said: AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love you ‐ Jill Andrea said: Thank you!

Comments

Gardenia said: beautiful photo, beautiful boy. beautiful phrase.

Phyllis said: Awesome!! I'll be ordering some.

We started a little pickle jar. Kristen gets all my change to go into her piggy bank, so for the month of September she's going to put the change into the pickle jar instead of her piggy bank.

We're still working on some other ideas for other months.

Phyllis

G. Lopez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . said: Amen!!! Greetings from Arkansas. Hi Jodd & Amy (and beautiful family)

9/2/2009 8:52:00 PM

Laurel said: Very cool t‐shirts!

Great plan for a fundraiser.

Laurel

Stylin with a cause...

Blessed Mom of 8 said: THOSE ROCK!

Thanks for sharing!

I'll post this for you too later this week!

Love you, Jill

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buds, and now I am finding that this simple meal is allowing me to have more time to focus on each individual instead.

9/3/2009 3:01:00 PM

The focus

Isn’t it just amazing that God is so good to take such a simple thing, like beans and rice, and bless us in ways we never thought possible when we simply move our focus to Him?

Beans and Rice~ day 3

"Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Philippians 4:8

Comments Liz said: Oh! Those kinds of beans... Here's another recipe ‐ http://www.indianfoodforever.com/punjabi/rajma.html Feel free to tweak according to your desire ‐ Indian cooking is extremely forgiving.

Also, I'm in this with you ‐ not exactly the same way but I am struggling oh so hard to shift my focus on not the here.. but on God. Thanks much.

Often times I am guilty of loosing focus on the things that really matter. I let my feelings and emotions get the best of meforgetting to put what really matters first- God.

As silly as it sounds- eating only beans and rice for dinner every night has really begun to change my focus.

Where we used to sit down at the table and spout out a quick prayer of thanks-now I am finding that we are really focusing on what God is trying to teach us. I am going to admit that a lot of times I didn’t really let the words of our prayer reach my heart… I said them, but at the same time I was already thinking ahead-already worried about who I had to get to what practice, or remembering something I needed to ask Todd or one of the kids. Often times we’d barely finish our prayer and we were already digging in… forgetting how truly blessed we were to have that food that was set in front of us.

We’d forget to be thankful for Todds job that enabled us to purchase the food, we’d forget to be thankful for the person who spent time preparing the food and we’d forget to be thankful to God because he provided the food. We often just took it for granted.

Shannon‐ said: Amen! I find when I get overwhelmed and things aren't "touching my heart"‐ I have a fasting day or two and a similar thing happens.

Thank you for doing this. And thank you for sharing your story.

Linda said: Yes, I am seeing the same thing in our home as we join you on beans and rice this month. It is a blessing preparing simple meals and my heart is more settled. I am trying a new recipe for slow cooker baked beans today...simple and smells delicious. God is so good!

Kim said: Oh how I can relate. Thank you for the reminder of where to keep our focus!

Adeye said: Thank you for the amazing reminder, friend!

I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE what you're doing! You are an amazing woman of a Mighty God, Amy. darci said: very cool amy.

Are These Kids All Yours? said: Just made me cry....because it sounds familiar. Thank you for continuing to share what God is doing in your family. We are just blessed to get to share with each other. THANKS!

Yet not only has the focus of our prayer life at dinner been different- but our focus on each other has been different too.

Previously I had put so much emphasis on what to prepare for dinner that might that it often took up a lot of my time and energy that I didn’t have then for my family. I would scurry around the kitchen, working hard to please everyone’s taste

James 1:27 Family said: Thank you. I've never met you but I just love you. I love your heart for the Lord. Isn't it great that He never finishes teaches us and we never finish growing

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closer to Him?!? I love the Bible verse at the end of your post and it reminded me of another favorite verse from Philippians "Do all things without complaining; Be joyful always." That's a tough one for me and God is working on that with me. It's funny how eating beans and rice or skipping a meal here and there can bring JOY instead of grumbling. Thanks for sharing your JOY!

Love in Jesus, Amy

Blessed Mom of 8 said: LOL! We haven't had that issue here.

Sorry for you!

Love and blessings, Jill Are These Kids All Yours? said: Made me chuckle, but to so many in the world it is not funny‐ but reality. Still I can hear my dad saying that comment over and over, and my mom saying‐ stop that. Memories.

Blessed Mom of 8 said: AMEN!

Hugs and love!

From another Mommy who would rather focus on the individual ‐ then the food I am preparing!

Jill

Cari Bacon said: There's always Beano, so there will Be No Gas!! :) natali said: hehe! so cute!

Linda said: Hahaha‐ funny! We always subtitute the "magical" for 'musical' but all the same‐ lol!

Shonni said: These are some of the things I have noticed also... praying on with you....

Karin said: baahhaaahahahahahah....

I told my family about what you guys are doing and they agreed to try it for either one week OR rice & beans once a week, indefinitely.

So...this is probably a dumb question but how do you cook the beans? Do you buy them in a bag and cook them all day or just dump them out of a can? :)

9/4/2009 2:59:00 PM

Day 4~ Rice and Beans

Adeye said: LOL‐‐‐tooooo funny :) At least you know you're getting your fiber for the day :)

Gorgeous pics of your sweetheart boy! Love it, friend.

Laurel said: Oh my .... I hadn't thought about that part of things.

My Big Boys have serious issues when they eat too many beans.

Too funny!

Laurel fpatlan said: This made me laugh! darci said: teeheehee..or 'beans beans they're good for your heart, if you eat too much they make you....'

Shonni said: Ha‐ha both of you!!

Beans, Beans the magical fruit.

The more you eat, the more you...

One Big Fat Sugar Mama said: ...The more you toot the better you feel, so eat some beans at every meal :0)

(Enough said ;0)

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