Which have you watched?
Which are good?
Which are bad?
Which spin a positive light on adoption?
http://attemptingagape.blogspot.com/2013/01/adoption-foster-care-movies.html
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Three years and still waiting
It's been a long three years, but we're still waiting. We recently redid our portfolio, and those should arrive soon. Once they arrive, we'll give those to the adoption agency. Maybe these new books will help us, and we'll be selected to open our home to a child who needs a loving home.
The last couple of months have been rough. Our Irish Wolfhound, Strider, got really sick, and we had to put him down as he was suffering so much. It tore our hearts out and still makes us sad, but we know he didn't want to live like that. Then about a week ago, I got sick with bronchitis. I'm still sick, but trying to push myself to work the last couple of days.
We have two puppies in the house who cause a raucous a couple of times a day. It is hilarious as every night around 10:00, they get all ramped up barking and barking. And as quickly as they get keyed up, they crash and are out for the night.
Life is busy, but still good.
The last couple of months have been rough. Our Irish Wolfhound, Strider, got really sick, and we had to put him down as he was suffering so much. It tore our hearts out and still makes us sad, but we know he didn't want to live like that. Then about a week ago, I got sick with bronchitis. I'm still sick, but trying to push myself to work the last couple of days.
We have two puppies in the house who cause a raucous a couple of times a day. It is hilarious as every night around 10:00, they get all ramped up barking and barking. And as quickly as they get keyed up, they crash and are out for the night.
Life is busy, but still good.
Sunday, January 10, 2016
New year; trying to get a new attitude
It's 10 days into the new year, and I have a bit of an attitude about it. At first, I didn't realize that I had an attitude, but I started to realize it shortly into New Year's Day. Every time someone said, "Happy New Year," I'd just think, "Eh!" And I couldn't return the sentiment.
Yes, I'm the Scrooge of New Years.
But why? I had to dig deep and think about it long and hard.
I finally realized the reason. It's because another has come and gone, and we haven't welcomed another child into our lives. Another year of silence. 365 days of no announcement that we've been chosen.
When we started this journey in 2011, we were so optimistic. We felt that this is what God had planned for us. But now, we have so many questions. Why not us? What is wrong with us? Is our portfolio showing something that is turning birth parents away from us? Is adoption no longer the plan for us? How long do we keep waiting and hoping? How many times should we say, "One more year"? So many questions that we may never have answers to.
At this point, we ask for prayers to help us have faith and gain understanding of God's plan. We also ask for patience with the process, the wait, each other, and God. We still have a bit of hope, though.
Yes, I'm the Scrooge of New Years.
But why? I had to dig deep and think about it long and hard.
I finally realized the reason. It's because another has come and gone, and we haven't welcomed another child into our lives. Another year of silence. 365 days of no announcement that we've been chosen.
When we started this journey in 2011, we were so optimistic. We felt that this is what God had planned for us. But now, we have so many questions. Why not us? What is wrong with us? Is our portfolio showing something that is turning birth parents away from us? Is adoption no longer the plan for us? How long do we keep waiting and hoping? How many times should we say, "One more year"? So many questions that we may never have answers to.
At this point, we ask for prayers to help us have faith and gain understanding of God's plan. We also ask for patience with the process, the wait, each other, and God. We still have a bit of hope, though.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Thank you, Gibbs!
I'm an NCIS fan and just finished watching the episode when Palmer and his wife were going to be parents through adoption. However, after the birth of the baby, the birth mother decided to parent. Palmer and his wife were devastated of course. The talk Gibbs gave to Palmer was really inspiring.
Thanks for the smack, Gibbs! I'm ready to keeping fighting for expanding our family!
Thanks for the smack, Gibbs! I'm ready to keeping fighting for expanding our family!
Sunday, August 9, 2015
Our garden
We have a small garden. And by garden, I mean two large tractor tires filled with soil and packed with plants. We are growing squash, herbs, tomatoes, and peppers. We also have a small grape vine, planted last year, that is taking off.
This morning, I finally discovered what has been gnawing at our grape vine. This little sphinx caterpillar.
This morning, I finally discovered what has been gnawing at our grape vine. This little sphinx caterpillar.
I also found a beautiful spiderweb that has caught some pollen from the pumpkin plants.
Here is also one of the few pumpkins that we'll harvest this fall.
Maybe we'll be sharing this pumpkin with our own little "pumpkin!"
Monday, July 27, 2015
A Miracle for Another
ABC.com recently posted an article about a couple who was blessed with a "surprise baby." In our agency, that means a baby that birth mom decided to place with adoptive parents) at the time of her baby's birth. Such a wonderful surprise for any parent waiting for that call.
You can read the full article here: http://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/adoptive-parents-meet-newborn-daughter/story?id=32709612
You can read the Olson's journey on their website: http://olsonfamilyadoption.com/about/.
Blessings!
Christel and Chris
You can read the full article here: http://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/adoptive-parents-meet-newborn-daughter/story?id=32709612
You can read the Olson's journey on their website: http://olsonfamilyadoption.com/about/.
Blessings!
Christel and Chris
Sunday, July 19, 2015
Birthday Surprise
Chris and my sister, Vicky, decided to vandalize my van today. I love them for helping me feel so special for my birthday. I got lots of hunks while driving around today.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Separation of Church and State
http://www.npr.org/2015/06/30/418776102/some-texas-county-clerks-delay-licenses-for-same-sex-marriages
Here we go; my two cents:
Some American people demand that there be clear separation of church and state (no prayers in school, no bibles to swear upon in the courts, etc.).
The government (aka the state), not the church, issues marriage licenses. As such, people can get married without a religious ceremony.
County clerks, who issue marriage licenses, work for the government (aka the state).
Since people demand that there is a clear separation of church and state, religion cannot play a role in whether or not they issue marriage licenses.
If county clerks are opposed to issuing marriage licenses to certain couples because of their personal religious belief, they owe it to the American people to ensure separation of church and state by stepping down from their elected or appointed position.
Here we go; my two cents:
Some American people demand that there be clear separation of church and state (no prayers in school, no bibles to swear upon in the courts, etc.).
The government (aka the state), not the church, issues marriage licenses. As such, people can get married without a religious ceremony.
County clerks, who issue marriage licenses, work for the government (aka the state).
Since people demand that there is a clear separation of church and state, religion cannot play a role in whether or not they issue marriage licenses.
If county clerks are opposed to issuing marriage licenses to certain couples because of their personal religious belief, they owe it to the American people to ensure separation of church and state by stepping down from their elected or appointed position.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Yes, I'm a sucker.
My husband called me a sucker. But, I'm ok with that because he said it with love and a bit of pride.
A few weeks ago, Chris and I had to attend our annual adoptive parenting training with our adoption agency. After the training, Chris surprised me with an overnight getaway to Denver. It was a much needed mini trip.
We stayed at a very nice hotel, enjoyed a wonderful dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, and were able to sleep in a bit. The next morning after breakfast, we decided to walk around downtown Denver. It was a beautiful, sunny day, but still very chilly.
Shortly after leaving the hotel, we were approached by a man who was obviously a transient; evident by his large backpack, old, dirty clothes, and slightly haggard appearance. As he approached us, he asked us a favor. He asked to not judge him by his outward appearance and apologized for being dirty, but he asked us take one moment to listen to him.
We both said, "Sure," and stopped and listened to his story. As a young kid, he was in the foster program, but eventually "aged out" of the system before finding a forever family. He's spent his life trying to find his way and struggling at times. As he told his story, my heart was breaking for him.
You see, my grandparents fostered over 150 kids. I heard the stories of the kids who were forced into the foster system, many through no fault of their own. My grandparents had love in their hearts for these kids who had endured so much in the short time they had been on this earth. Grandma and grandpa tried to do right by these kids, help them when possible, and guide them everyday they lived in their house. Many of the kids they fostered are still in contact with my grandma (my grandpa past a couple of years ago).
As I continued to hear the brief story of the man in front us, he asked if we could help him to be able to stay in a warm place that night. He told us how much money he needed and said anything would help. I looked at Chris, but I already knew what I was going to do.
Since we didn't have any cash on us, we proceeded to the corner convenience store to get some cash. As we walked, Chris looked at me and said with a smile,"You're a sucker, you know." I said, "I know" and smiled back at him.
I know so many people will walk by a homeless person and not give them money let alone look at them. They think, "If I give them money, they'll just spend it on drugs or alcohol." Maybe so, but are we the ones who should judge those who have come on hard times? What if their need for money is sincere to help them get on their feet? I feel it is our responsibility to help each other when we can. If the needy end up spending the money we give them on drugs and alcohol, so be it. We can only try to help them.
We met the man outside the store, and I handed him the money. I said, "It's not exactly the amount you need, but it is a good start." He thanked us profusely and shook Chris' hand. As he shook my hand, I asked him his name. He said "William." A slight chill went through me at the name; my grandpa's name is William. I said, "I'll say a prayer for you. Take care of yourself" and gave him a hug.
As William walked away, I had a feeling that my grandpa was smiling down on me a bit. And seeing my husband smile at me with pride and love, should tell you why I'm ok with my husband calling me a sucker.
A few weeks ago, Chris and I had to attend our annual adoptive parenting training with our adoption agency. After the training, Chris surprised me with an overnight getaway to Denver. It was a much needed mini trip.
We stayed at a very nice hotel, enjoyed a wonderful dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, and were able to sleep in a bit. The next morning after breakfast, we decided to walk around downtown Denver. It was a beautiful, sunny day, but still very chilly.
Shortly after leaving the hotel, we were approached by a man who was obviously a transient; evident by his large backpack, old, dirty clothes, and slightly haggard appearance. As he approached us, he asked us a favor. He asked to not judge him by his outward appearance and apologized for being dirty, but he asked us take one moment to listen to him.
We both said, "Sure," and stopped and listened to his story. As a young kid, he was in the foster program, but eventually "aged out" of the system before finding a forever family. He's spent his life trying to find his way and struggling at times. As he told his story, my heart was breaking for him.
You see, my grandparents fostered over 150 kids. I heard the stories of the kids who were forced into the foster system, many through no fault of their own. My grandparents had love in their hearts for these kids who had endured so much in the short time they had been on this earth. Grandma and grandpa tried to do right by these kids, help them when possible, and guide them everyday they lived in their house. Many of the kids they fostered are still in contact with my grandma (my grandpa past a couple of years ago).
As I continued to hear the brief story of the man in front us, he asked if we could help him to be able to stay in a warm place that night. He told us how much money he needed and said anything would help. I looked at Chris, but I already knew what I was going to do.
Since we didn't have any cash on us, we proceeded to the corner convenience store to get some cash. As we walked, Chris looked at me and said with a smile,"You're a sucker, you know." I said, "I know" and smiled back at him.
I know so many people will walk by a homeless person and not give them money let alone look at them. They think, "If I give them money, they'll just spend it on drugs or alcohol." Maybe so, but are we the ones who should judge those who have come on hard times? What if their need for money is sincere to help them get on their feet? I feel it is our responsibility to help each other when we can. If the needy end up spending the money we give them on drugs and alcohol, so be it. We can only try to help them.
We met the man outside the store, and I handed him the money. I said, "It's not exactly the amount you need, but it is a good start." He thanked us profusely and shook Chris' hand. As he shook my hand, I asked him his name. He said "William." A slight chill went through me at the name; my grandpa's name is William. I said, "I'll say a prayer for you. Take care of yourself" and gave him a hug.
As William walked away, I had a feeling that my grandpa was smiling down on me a bit. And seeing my husband smile at me with pride and love, should tell you why I'm ok with my husband calling me a sucker.
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Goal Accomplished!
I started the year off right by finishing my event planner courses and getting my "Professional Event Planner" certificate!
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Placing your child is not "giving up"
For the longest time, and even today, people referring to adoption as "giving up" a child. Deciding on adoption for your child is far from giving up. This article from American Adoptions, tells how deciding on adoption is not giving up, but choosing a life you imagined for your child. Please take a few minutes to read their article.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
A year later
We can't believe it's already been a year since a fire destroyed the office where Chris had his business. We can still remember that night watching the office burn; the smells, sounds, and sights are still vivid in our minds.
A week after the fire, we got to go into the building to see what could be retrieved. Besides a few small items, everything was destroyed. It was a somber day as we walked through the building with boots and hardhats, stepping on water-soaked carpets, feeling water drip on our backs from the water-logged ceiling, and seeing how the drywall was turned to mush. We were all overwhelmed and saddened by the loss, but thankful that no one was hurt.
For the past year, the owner of the building had been busy rebuilding it. Today was the first time that I've been back in the building for a year. What an amazing change! It was a happy moment to see the building back and even better than before! New walls, floors, doors, ceilings, carpet, and paint, and it is beautiful!
Now, we are heading to the furniture store now to pick out new furniture for Chris' office. We are so excited about this new phase of his business. Thanks to everyone for the prayers and thanks to the members of the community, who jumped in and helped us get setup in a new temporary office.
A week after the fire, we got to go into the building to see what could be retrieved. Besides a few small items, everything was destroyed. It was a somber day as we walked through the building with boots and hardhats, stepping on water-soaked carpets, feeling water drip on our backs from the water-logged ceiling, and seeing how the drywall was turned to mush. We were all overwhelmed and saddened by the loss, but thankful that no one was hurt.
For the past year, the owner of the building had been busy rebuilding it. Today was the first time that I've been back in the building for a year. What an amazing change! It was a happy moment to see the building back and even better than before! New walls, floors, doors, ceilings, carpet, and paint, and it is beautiful!
Now, we are heading to the furniture store now to pick out new furniture for Chris' office. We are so excited about this new phase of his business. Thanks to everyone for the prayers and thanks to the members of the community, who jumped in and helped us get setup in a new temporary office.
We celebrated the life of Gramps yesterday
On July 5th, we lost a great man. Edward Anderson aka "Gramps." He was Chris' grandfather; his mom's dad. Gramps was an amazing man who touched so many people's lives in a positive way. He was a talented artist and musician. Though I only knew him a short time, he warmly welcomed me into the family and always had a smile fo me.
The funeral was amazing and emotional. So many people showed up to show their love and we had a huge choir of his students, family, and friends who all sang to celebrate Gramps' life. We are so thankful to have had him in touch our life.
The one wish we had about Gramps that didn't come true is that we hoped we would have had a new family member before his passing. However, we know that he and Nana are watching from above and praying for us. We love and miss you both.
The funeral was amazing and emotional. So many people showed up to show their love and we had a huge choir of his students, family, and friends who all sang to celebrate Gramps' life. We are so thankful to have had him in touch our life.
The one wish we had about Gramps that didn't come true is that we hoped we would have had a new family member before his passing. However, we know that he and Nana are watching from above and praying for us. We love and miss you both.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Please pray for Gramps
Please say a prayer for Chris' grandfather, who we all loving refer to as "Gramps." He lives in assisted living and is 98 years old. The staff found him passed out on the floor of his room last night, and he was transported to the hospital. The doctors diagnosed him with pneumonia. I understand that it was touch and go during the night. He is currently stable, but unresponsive. We are getting ready to head to the hospital to see him. Pneumonia is such a hard condition to recover from for someone his age. Please pray for healing for him. Thank you!
Friday, June 27, 2014
Why yes, we do spoil our dogs
We allow the dogs on the furniture, and they take full advantage of it.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
The play is coming along nicely!
Yes, I'm in another play. This time it's Cinderella, and I'm the evil stepmother! I'm so loving it! Though I'm the oldest actor, the rest of the cast, who are young college students and many of them have worked together on other plays) have made me feel a part of the team.
The long days are a challenge sometimes as I started my new job on the same day play rehearsals started. Getting to work at 7:30 a.m., working all day followed by rehearsal until 8:00 p.m. makes for some long days. But it's worth it, and it is only for a few more weeks.
As for my new job, I'm enjoying it and starting to settle it. I still have a lot to learn about the project I'm working on, but the team immediately made me feel welcomed and solicited my input on different things. It's also unique in that for the last 10 years, I've been an editor and writer for environmental engineer; now I'm in the technology field. It's nice to have a challenge again.
And for the adoption front, we finished our re-certification last month, so things have quieted down again. We keep praying and reaching out to people and groups who know about adoption and can give us ideas, encouragement, and suggestions. Chris and I still feel strongly that we will have a young one placed with us, so we haven't lost faith.
The long days are a challenge sometimes as I started my new job on the same day play rehearsals started. Getting to work at 7:30 a.m., working all day followed by rehearsal until 8:00 p.m. makes for some long days. But it's worth it, and it is only for a few more weeks.
As for my new job, I'm enjoying it and starting to settle it. I still have a lot to learn about the project I'm working on, but the team immediately made me feel welcomed and solicited my input on different things. It's also unique in that for the last 10 years, I've been an editor and writer for environmental engineer; now I'm in the technology field. It's nice to have a challenge again.
And for the adoption front, we finished our re-certification last month, so things have quieted down again. We keep praying and reaching out to people and groups who know about adoption and can give us ideas, encouragement, and suggestions. Chris and I still feel strongly that we will have a young one placed with us, so we haven't lost faith.
Monday, April 21, 2014
Positive Things are Happening
I started my temporary job today in Evans. It's a commute, but the people are really nice. They have put me in charge of getting a farmers market for the city up and running.
I have really dived into acting. I auditioned for Cinderella with Front Range Community College and got the part of the Evil Stepmother. Mwaa haa haa haa! I'm super excited. I also had an audition Saturday for OpenStage Theatre. This was a hard audition because it was my first ever singing audition. Ok, I'll be honest, I was so nervous that my singing was horrible. My chest was so tight that I couldn't get a breath to support my voice. It took me all day to get over it, but Chris was so supportive telling me that it was to be expected being my first time doing a singing audition. However, I guess my monologue was good because I got selected for a callback. Yea! So, that was unexpected and helped ease my humiliation from my sour singing. My callback is on Sunday.
I asked my husband if he thought I was silly for auditioning and acting. He told me that he thought it was great. He is such a great support. I also just got an email from one of the directors from Jubilee Players asking if I would lead the sketch group. This would involve teaching others acting, directing smaller plays, and working on improve. I'm excited about it, but undecided as accepting this opportunity would mean that I could not be in the next big production. I'll have to pray on this.
My phone interview with a government contracted company went really well, too. In fact, I have my in-person interview with them tomorrow. I have to bring a writing sample and do an editing test tomorrow. I'm trying not be nervous, and just enjoy the experience.
Our home inspection to be re-certified as adoptive parents is on Thursday. We have been waiting for a little over the year now for a placement and keep praying to God that it is His will that we get to adopt and add a little one to our family.
I have really dived into acting. I auditioned for Cinderella with Front Range Community College and got the part of the Evil Stepmother. Mwaa haa haa haa! I'm super excited. I also had an audition Saturday for OpenStage Theatre. This was a hard audition because it was my first ever singing audition. Ok, I'll be honest, I was so nervous that my singing was horrible. My chest was so tight that I couldn't get a breath to support my voice. It took me all day to get over it, but Chris was so supportive telling me that it was to be expected being my first time doing a singing audition. However, I guess my monologue was good because I got selected for a callback. Yea! So, that was unexpected and helped ease my humiliation from my sour singing. My callback is on Sunday.
I asked my husband if he thought I was silly for auditioning and acting. He told me that he thought it was great. He is such a great support. I also just got an email from one of the directors from Jubilee Players asking if I would lead the sketch group. This would involve teaching others acting, directing smaller plays, and working on improve. I'm excited about it, but undecided as accepting this opportunity would mean that I could not be in the next big production. I'll have to pray on this.
My phone interview with a government contracted company went really well, too. In fact, I have my in-person interview with them tomorrow. I have to bring a writing sample and do an editing test tomorrow. I'm trying not be nervous, and just enjoy the experience.
Our home inspection to be re-certified as adoptive parents is on Thursday. We have been waiting for a little over the year now for a placement and keep praying to God that it is His will that we get to adopt and add a little one to our family.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Lost? Ask for help
I thought I would post the lyrics (thanks to azlyrics.com) also.
I don’t know where to go from here
It all used to seem so clear
I’m finding I can’t do this on my own
I don’t know where to go from here
As long as I know that You are near
I’m done fighting
I’m finally letting go
I will trust in You
You’ve never failed before
I will trust in You
[Chorus:]
If there’s a road I should walk
Help me find it
If I need to be still
Give me peace for the moment
Whatever Your will
Whatever Your will
Can you help me find it
Can you help me find it
I’m giving You fear and You give faith
I'm giving you doubt
You give me grace
For every step I’ve never been alone
Even when it hurts, You’ll have Your way
Even in the valley I will say
With every breath
You’ve never let me go
I will wait for You
You’ve never failed before
I will wait for You
[Chorus]
I lift my empty hands (come fill me up again)
Have Your way my King (I give my all to You)
I lift my eyes again (Was blind but now I see)
‘Cause You are all I need
[Chorus]
We all go through tough times, everyone is fighting a battle. All we can do is keep the faith, trust God, and let go.
God bless,
Christel
Thursday, February 27, 2014
I've missed reading books
Prior to the last few years, I used to read a lot. I was always reading whenever and wherever I could; prior bed, in the car waiting for the train to finish crossing the road, at the doctor's office, outside when the weather was nice. However, it seems life got in the way, and I let my reading time take a backseat.
A few weeks ago, I started reading "Divergent" by Veronica Roth. I got through Chapter 8, then got busy with this thing we call "life." But I've been doing my on-call job this week filling in for the campus manager, so I've had actual lunch time, and I decided to start reading the book again.
I have to say that I've realized how much I miss reading, as I have totally got into this book. I remember how much I like the way books pull me into their stories, and I lose track of the world around me. My visualization of the events being told is so vivid that I can almost smell, see, and feel the world of the story, and I start to feel like a quiet character of the tale.
I need to remember this feeling more and instead of going online and looking at Pinterest and Facebook, I need to pick up a book, read, and get pulled into another world for a short time.
Christel
A few weeks ago, I started reading "Divergent" by Veronica Roth. I got through Chapter 8, then got busy with this thing we call "life." But I've been doing my on-call job this week filling in for the campus manager, so I've had actual lunch time, and I decided to start reading the book again.
I have to say that I've realized how much I miss reading, as I have totally got into this book. I remember how much I like the way books pull me into their stories, and I lose track of the world around me. My visualization of the events being told is so vivid that I can almost smell, see, and feel the world of the story, and I start to feel like a quiet character of the tale.
I need to remember this feeling more and instead of going online and looking at Pinterest and Facebook, I need to pick up a book, read, and get pulled into another world for a short time.
Christel
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Where does the time go?
Wow! It's already the end of February! My apologies for being lax in writing a post. I know many of you are wondering what is going with us.
During the holiday season, we were asked quite often by family and friends about our status on adopting. This showed us how many people we know who care about us and hope we get a match. Well, the answer to that question is that things are pretty quiet.
In January, we attended the annual meeting for waiting families with our adoption agency. During this meeting, the agency staff reviewed the adoption process, new regulations, updated fee schedules, and information on the waiting phase. It was nice to see some of the families we saw at this meeting last year, and bitter-sweet to note the families that were abscent because their dream of adopting finally became a reality. To all those families we say, "Congratulations! We are so happy for you!"
So basically, we are still waiting and praying for the right match. This is also bitter-sweet for us because, as much as we would like a baby, we know a birthmom is struggling with the decision to parent or place her baby. We are praying for those birthmoms, too.
Chris' birthday was in December and as part of his present, his mom found some of the baby clothes she had kept from when her kids were tiny. The clothes are so precious, and it was such a thoughtful gesture. It is wonderful to have something like that handed down to us that we can use once we get a baby placed with us. For now, we put those items in a safe place, along with a few other items we've collected.
I am now in a play with our church, and I am so excited! Rehearsals have been fun, and it's been nice to meet other people in our church. The play is called, "Sacrifice of Love," and we perform it on April 11 at our church. It is a modern day parable of the preaching of Jesus, his prosecution, death, and resurrection. The main character's name is Jason Carpenter who symbolizes Jesus. I think it is going to be a moving and beautiful play.
So inbetween the twice a week rehearsals, I am doing a little bit of work as an on-call professional for a local college, and I continue volunteering. This past weekend, I continued my training with American Red Cross by attending the disaster logistics training.
Chris is still staying busy at his office and working at the hospital. Additionally, we are getting ready for dog show season, so he has been spending time getting the dogs' coats in shape. Oh, and Hanna had a litter of puppies in November, so they have been keeping us really busy. Below is a picture of Strider with one of the puppies. This just melts my heart!
During the holiday season, we were asked quite often by family and friends about our status on adopting. This showed us how many people we know who care about us and hope we get a match. Well, the answer to that question is that things are pretty quiet.
In January, we attended the annual meeting for waiting families with our adoption agency. During this meeting, the agency staff reviewed the adoption process, new regulations, updated fee schedules, and information on the waiting phase. It was nice to see some of the families we saw at this meeting last year, and bitter-sweet to note the families that were abscent because their dream of adopting finally became a reality. To all those families we say, "Congratulations! We are so happy for you!"
So basically, we are still waiting and praying for the right match. This is also bitter-sweet for us because, as much as we would like a baby, we know a birthmom is struggling with the decision to parent or place her baby. We are praying for those birthmoms, too.
Chris' birthday was in December and as part of his present, his mom found some of the baby clothes she had kept from when her kids were tiny. The clothes are so precious, and it was such a thoughtful gesture. It is wonderful to have something like that handed down to us that we can use once we get a baby placed with us. For now, we put those items in a safe place, along with a few other items we've collected.
I am now in a play with our church, and I am so excited! Rehearsals have been fun, and it's been nice to meet other people in our church. The play is called, "Sacrifice of Love," and we perform it on April 11 at our church. It is a modern day parable of the preaching of Jesus, his prosecution, death, and resurrection. The main character's name is Jason Carpenter who symbolizes Jesus. I think it is going to be a moving and beautiful play.
So inbetween the twice a week rehearsals, I am doing a little bit of work as an on-call professional for a local college, and I continue volunteering. This past weekend, I continued my training with American Red Cross by attending the disaster logistics training.
Chris is still staying busy at his office and working at the hospital. Additionally, we are getting ready for dog show season, so he has been spending time getting the dogs' coats in shape. Oh, and Hanna had a litter of puppies in November, so they have been keeping us really busy. Below is a picture of Strider with one of the puppies. This just melts my heart!
Nick went back to college this semester and I think he is liking it. He has additionally been going to a ton of concerts in Denver and has a couple of trips planned for concerts in Las Vegas and Los Angeles. He is so independent!
Ok, I will end the post at that for now, so you don't feel like you are reading a book. Please keep us in your prayers and we are doing the same for you.
Take care,
Christel
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