One month done with school and it is going fabulously! I am not just saying that either. Everyone of my children likes school (so far!). They all like their teachers and getting into the school routine has not been difficult. I think they all really missed it.
Mahlet is doing so great in school. Her teachers/school were a little apprehensive at first thinking they could not deal with a non-English speaking child, but they are amazed at her each day. She is adapting well to school routines and rules. I am waiting for a breakdown one day when the novelty will wear off and she decides she just doesn't want to go. :-)
Things I have learned the past couple of months. She is a stubborn little girl. She acts like an only child, which is odd having lived in an orphange. She doesn't really know how to play with siblings unless they are all doing the exact thing she wants to do at the exact moment she wants to do it! Compromise is definately not in her vocabulary yet. It's been a growing experience for all of us, but we went through the same thing with all of our children, adopted or biological. However, my biological children went through it at about age of 3, so sometimes it's hard to remember that while she is 7 years old physcially, certain aspects of her are still learning and growing.
She did give us a scare this week and at the dinner table had a seizure. It was small and unless you were aware of what forms seizures can look like one might have missed it. She came out of it good and was able to eat later. The following day of course was a trip to the doctor and then off for and MRI and EEG. A thankful answer to prayers that nothing out of the ordinary was found. The doctors are hoping it was just a one time deal. So we just wait and see. We weren't overly concerned as she has been home for 4 months and this is the first time we have had this issue. We are glad it was over quickly and answers to test were back super fast. Thanks be to God!
Going over our calander the other night we realized that our Samantha's 5 year Gotcha Day is coming up Oct. 15th! I would like to say, wow 5 years, but our reaction is, "it's only been 5 years!". We mean that in a great way. I can not remember our family without Samantha. Sometimes I forget I did not give physcial birth to her. She is an amazingly wondeful, cheerful, bright, energetic, and funny girl who adds a smile to my day everyday. Can't wait to celebrate her special day to reminder her how much she changed our lives for the better.
I have a senior this year! I can not believe it! We have been busy college shopping. I am having fun. I am not sure about her, but her father and I are doing the things we didn't get to do as 18 year olds. I hope one day she has fond memories of this year. We are trying to make it full of many fun memories.
We have a 5 child living with us for 3 weeks. Our German exchange student showed up. We are having the best time! It's fun trying to come up with "American" activities. It's a great experience for our whole family and she has been a real trooper about all the siblings running around. Mahlet thinks she is just the best present we could have gotten her. LOL!
So that is a basic catch up of our lives. I hope when I am done blogging for my dad's Appalachian Trail hike in a few weeks, I will have time to keep up my own blog. But then again, I am busy living life and having a great time (most of the time).
Thanks for stopping by!!!!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
So Monday’s post came out a little harsh. I didn’t mean for it to be. Chalk it up to post-adoption depression. Trust me there is such a thing. For a year you ride on these endorphin highs, even the lows are a high. There is always something to look forward to, but mostly your new child. Then BAM! Its here and over in a flash. Just like a tornado, it’s strikes and it’s gone and you are left with a big ‘ole mess to clean up.
Messy isn’t a negative word in this context necessarily. It’s just like any other big change in one’s life. It happened after the birth of my biological children as well. There is change in routines and schedules. I used to thrive on change. I loved changed. Negative or positive...it was a reminder that we are definitely not in control of this crazy ride we call life. This time though it has been hardest for me. Maybe it’s because I am approaching 40 in just a few short weeks. Maybe it’s because Doug will be going on 2 years of unemployment in October. Maybe it’s because my oldest “baby” is leaving us next year for college or maybe it’s just …because.
I find that my biggest goal for the day is to actually make it through the day. Getting up out of bed is a huge chore and I can’t wait to get back into my bed and lay my head on my pillow. I am so tired these days I have even stopped dreaming. When I am at work, I wish I was at home, when I am at home I wish I was out having an adventure. I hate that feeling! I hate wishing my days away. Each day is a gift and I need to remember to treat it that way. Doesn’t matter where I am physically, it matters where I am mentally. So, instead of de-cluttering my house, I am de-cluttering my mind….pushing out everything that doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter I am not a super model (although it would make it easier to find clothes), it doesn’t matter I am not a gourmet cook (my kids wouldn’t eat it anyway), it doesn’t matter I am the breadwinner of my family (my girls will have 2 years of daddy time memories), it just doesn’t matter.
Funny how God has a way of taking you to the brink to get his point across. Well really, God gets his point across just fine if we were to be quiet and listen. It’s my fault I am at the breaking point, I forgot what does matter. It reminds me of the line in the movie City Slickers.
Do you know what the secret of life is? One thing. Just one thing. You stick to that and everything else don't mean (squat).
Messy isn’t a negative word in this context necessarily. It’s just like any other big change in one’s life. It happened after the birth of my biological children as well. There is change in routines and schedules. I used to thrive on change. I loved changed. Negative or positive...it was a reminder that we are definitely not in control of this crazy ride we call life. This time though it has been hardest for me. Maybe it’s because I am approaching 40 in just a few short weeks. Maybe it’s because Doug will be going on 2 years of unemployment in October. Maybe it’s because my oldest “baby” is leaving us next year for college or maybe it’s just …because.
I find that my biggest goal for the day is to actually make it through the day. Getting up out of bed is a huge chore and I can’t wait to get back into my bed and lay my head on my pillow. I am so tired these days I have even stopped dreaming. When I am at work, I wish I was at home, when I am at home I wish I was out having an adventure. I hate that feeling! I hate wishing my days away. Each day is a gift and I need to remember to treat it that way. Doesn’t matter where I am physically, it matters where I am mentally. So, instead of de-cluttering my house, I am de-cluttering my mind….pushing out everything that doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter I am not a super model (although it would make it easier to find clothes), it doesn’t matter I am not a gourmet cook (my kids wouldn’t eat it anyway), it doesn’t matter I am the breadwinner of my family (my girls will have 2 years of daddy time memories), it just doesn’t matter.
Funny how God has a way of taking you to the brink to get his point across. Well really, God gets his point across just fine if we were to be quiet and listen. It’s my fault I am at the breaking point, I forgot what does matter. It reminds me of the line in the movie City Slickers.
Do you know what the secret of life is? One thing. Just one thing. You stick to that and everything else don't mean (squat).
Monday, July 26, 2010
The story
“What’s her story?” That is the number one question I am asked about Mahlet. Funny, because that is not the number one question I was asked about out adopted daughter from China. Is it because adoptions from Africa are not as common (well, they are now)? Is it because they assume her parents are dead? Are they trying to figure out if she has some horrible disease? No one walks up to me and asks what’s my story or my biological daughters’ stories. Why do people want to know her “story”?
Well, I will tell you her story. She is a 7 year old girl who needed a home. End of story. That is the entire story that we needed. It should be more than adequate for you.
I am not saying that to be mean or to let you think we are hiding anything. I am saying that because she is a human being. You wouldn’t walk up to a complete stranger on the street and say, “Hey! Why don’t you have a leg?” No, it’s rude (and if you do, we should talk). It’s just as rude to think that sharing the intimate details of her young life is any of your business.
Again, the only thing that matters is that she is a 7 year old girl who needed a home and we are so blessed that we were chosen to be her family. That brings me to another point. People say, “You are so amazing for doing this.” I will be the first to step up to the plate and say we are not amazing. You know who is amazing? Mahlet is amazing. Eight weeks ago that girl was picked up and taken away from her life….literally, left everything behind. She was dropped into a new country, new house and new family. Yet every morning she wakes up with a smile on her face. She might not go to bed that way, but everyday she wakes up with a smile. What a grand testimony to her desire for life. She wakes up with a smile on her face and the attitude that this is a new day. Sure she has toys and TV and new clothes and sisters, but I am sure she would trade it all back in to be back in Ethiopia with people who understand her language, to the foods and smells she knows, to her birth family. She doesn’t care if she had to live on a dirt floor. How courageous is this little girl to put her life on our hands. To give us her trust?
You know who else is amazing? Our Samantha is amazing. She had to go through the same experiences at age 4 and now she is reliving those experiences with Mahlet. It has dredged up a lot of questions about her past. Questions she never asked and questions I can’t always answer for her. She is one of the bravest girls I know.
So, the next time you think to ask an adoptive parent about their child’s “story”, stop and consider what a personal question you are really asking?
Well, I will tell you her story. She is a 7 year old girl who needed a home. End of story. That is the entire story that we needed. It should be more than adequate for you.
I am not saying that to be mean or to let you think we are hiding anything. I am saying that because she is a human being. You wouldn’t walk up to a complete stranger on the street and say, “Hey! Why don’t you have a leg?” No, it’s rude (and if you do, we should talk). It’s just as rude to think that sharing the intimate details of her young life is any of your business.
Again, the only thing that matters is that she is a 7 year old girl who needed a home and we are so blessed that we were chosen to be her family. That brings me to another point. People say, “You are so amazing for doing this.” I will be the first to step up to the plate and say we are not amazing. You know who is amazing? Mahlet is amazing. Eight weeks ago that girl was picked up and taken away from her life….literally, left everything behind. She was dropped into a new country, new house and new family. Yet every morning she wakes up with a smile on her face. She might not go to bed that way, but everyday she wakes up with a smile. What a grand testimony to her desire for life. She wakes up with a smile on her face and the attitude that this is a new day. Sure she has toys and TV and new clothes and sisters, but I am sure she would trade it all back in to be back in Ethiopia with people who understand her language, to the foods and smells she knows, to her birth family. She doesn’t care if she had to live on a dirt floor. How courageous is this little girl to put her life on our hands. To give us her trust?
You know who else is amazing? Our Samantha is amazing. She had to go through the same experiences at age 4 and now she is reliving those experiences with Mahlet. It has dredged up a lot of questions about her past. Questions she never asked and questions I can’t always answer for her. She is one of the bravest girls I know.
So, the next time you think to ask an adoptive parent about their child’s “story”, stop and consider what a personal question you are really asking?
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
One month and counting
Okay, I admit. I am a terrible, terrible blogger. I should probably not even have this site, but I do and you have to put up with my sporatic posts. I fully accept any and all mocking via the comments section.
So, how is life one month later? Great, hectic, tiring, wonderful and surprising.
Mahlet is officially not sick anymore. The snotty nose is all gone! Yeah!!!
Mahlet has given herself a new name...Briana. Since Briana is gone to Germany for month, Mahlet figures her name must be up for grabs. She points to everyone at the table and then points to herself and says, "Briana" and then laughs and laughs. Hopefully, Briana gets her name back upon her return or that will teach her for going away!
We did have a big break-through in the name department. She freaked out after being home for a week when we were saying our first and last names and we tried to say Mahlet Graber. She was adament that was not her name and kept correcting us (using her Ethiopian last name, which is her biological father's first name). Of course, we didn't push it and let it drop, cause that is quite traumatic of a change. Bad enough we shaved her head, now we are changing her last name?! Well, the other day she went around the room and said Daddy Graber, Mommy Graber, Isabella Graber, Samantha Graber, and Mahlet Graber. Then clapped and gave us a hug. Not sure she really believes it yet or was doing it to please us, but it's a start and it doesn't matter to me. And really, as a kid, how many times do you have to answer to your last name?
We have yet to complete a successful walk as a family, but it is getting closer and closer. The meltdowns come now from just wanting to be walking in the middle of the road or on the opposite side as everyone else or hitching a ride home with whatever car is driving by...okay, just kidding on that last one. She isn't bulking at the walks as much as the rules on the walk. I am sure she is thinking these people are crazy. They can drive wherever they want to go, yet they insist on walking in a circle at night. :-)
We have had some firsts...swimming in the area lakes. She loves it. Hesitant for about 5 seconds and then jumpled right in with her sisters. She doesn't go under the water, which is fine by me. But she just loves to be in the water. I even braved a swimsuit and went in with them the other day and she road around on my back for about an hour. What a great work out. Eat your heart out your P90X -ers. You ain't got nothing on a mom that swims around with kids on your back. BTW: I am not the only mom that uses this workout routine. Maybe we should be selling it? :-)
Samantha is getting better. Mahlet and her have come to a nighlite agreement that I think it working well. Samantha with her glaucoma hates any bright light and a nightlite in a dark room feels like the sun burning your eyeballs out. Mahlet doesn't like the dark in the least and I really prefer if she had some light so if she woke up and forgot where she was she could find the door. So basically, they are sorting out sharing a bedroom.
Oh, we also had our first movie. Toy Story 3. I, the adult, thought it was cute, but not the best of the 3. Mahlet had a good time. Mostly because popcorn was served. She LOVES popcorn. Pretty sure she would eat it 24/7 if we let her. She couldn't sit on the movie theater seat because they kept springing up and folding her in half and she was getting quite irrated. She never did figure out how to displace her weight, so I watched the movie through the head of a 7 year old with a giant bag of popcorn. It was all good!
Pet store...still not a favorite place. This time we were looking at the cats up for adoption. First two were fine, but the all black kitty--not so much. She started screaming. Not sure if that is a bad luck thing or a reminder of something, but we left. Cats don't like screaming seven year olds.
Her and Keesha are getting along super now. Mahlet sneaks her about 20 treats a day to get her to like her and then she gets mad when Keesha follows her around the house. LOL!
Mahlet loves TV. Poor thing, as we cut off our TV for the summer. She discovered she loves the movie Ella Enchanted and can now sing 2 of the songs and knows the dance routine for at least one. Speaking of which, the girl loves to dance and sing. I guess I know what we get to sign her up for first.
She does have a stubborn streak and is a drama queen, so we are "working" on those things. However, most of that has to be worked on when the language comes along. She is adding about 5 new words a day. She will totally be ready for school by the fall. Speaking of which, we plan to start her in 1st grade in September. She is so excited for school already.
Isabella is doing well. She is also finding her place in the family now and will soon be the big sister in the house (Briana is going to be a senior this year). She really misses Briana. Mahlet loves Isabella, which is no surprise, animals and kids all love Isabella. She just has this "thing".
I returned to work 2 weeks ago. It was hard as it was right at the beginning of summer break, but Doug is staying home with the girls for now. He is a great dad, but is ready to be back at work for the mental stimulation.
So, how is life one month later? Great, hectic, tiring, wonderful and surprising.
Mahlet is officially not sick anymore. The snotty nose is all gone! Yeah!!!
Mahlet has given herself a new name...Briana. Since Briana is gone to Germany for month, Mahlet figures her name must be up for grabs. She points to everyone at the table and then points to herself and says, "Briana" and then laughs and laughs. Hopefully, Briana gets her name back upon her return or that will teach her for going away!
We did have a big break-through in the name department. She freaked out after being home for a week when we were saying our first and last names and we tried to say Mahlet Graber. She was adament that was not her name and kept correcting us (using her Ethiopian last name, which is her biological father's first name). Of course, we didn't push it and let it drop, cause that is quite traumatic of a change. Bad enough we shaved her head, now we are changing her last name?! Well, the other day she went around the room and said Daddy Graber, Mommy Graber, Isabella Graber, Samantha Graber, and Mahlet Graber. Then clapped and gave us a hug. Not sure she really believes it yet or was doing it to please us, but it's a start and it doesn't matter to me. And really, as a kid, how many times do you have to answer to your last name?
We have yet to complete a successful walk as a family, but it is getting closer and closer. The meltdowns come now from just wanting to be walking in the middle of the road or on the opposite side as everyone else or hitching a ride home with whatever car is driving by...okay, just kidding on that last one. She isn't bulking at the walks as much as the rules on the walk. I am sure she is thinking these people are crazy. They can drive wherever they want to go, yet they insist on walking in a circle at night. :-)
We have had some firsts...swimming in the area lakes. She loves it. Hesitant for about 5 seconds and then jumpled right in with her sisters. She doesn't go under the water, which is fine by me. But she just loves to be in the water. I even braved a swimsuit and went in with them the other day and she road around on my back for about an hour. What a great work out. Eat your heart out your P90X -ers. You ain't got nothing on a mom that swims around with kids on your back. BTW: I am not the only mom that uses this workout routine. Maybe we should be selling it? :-)
Samantha is getting better. Mahlet and her have come to a nighlite agreement that I think it working well. Samantha with her glaucoma hates any bright light and a nightlite in a dark room feels like the sun burning your eyeballs out. Mahlet doesn't like the dark in the least and I really prefer if she had some light so if she woke up and forgot where she was she could find the door. So basically, they are sorting out sharing a bedroom.
Oh, we also had our first movie. Toy Story 3. I, the adult, thought it was cute, but not the best of the 3. Mahlet had a good time. Mostly because popcorn was served. She LOVES popcorn. Pretty sure she would eat it 24/7 if we let her. She couldn't sit on the movie theater seat because they kept springing up and folding her in half and she was getting quite irrated. She never did figure out how to displace her weight, so I watched the movie through the head of a 7 year old with a giant bag of popcorn. It was all good!
Pet store...still not a favorite place. This time we were looking at the cats up for adoption. First two were fine, but the all black kitty--not so much. She started screaming. Not sure if that is a bad luck thing or a reminder of something, but we left. Cats don't like screaming seven year olds.
Her and Keesha are getting along super now. Mahlet sneaks her about 20 treats a day to get her to like her and then she gets mad when Keesha follows her around the house. LOL!
Mahlet loves TV. Poor thing, as we cut off our TV for the summer. She discovered she loves the movie Ella Enchanted and can now sing 2 of the songs and knows the dance routine for at least one. Speaking of which, the girl loves to dance and sing. I guess I know what we get to sign her up for first.
She does have a stubborn streak and is a drama queen, so we are "working" on those things. However, most of that has to be worked on when the language comes along. She is adding about 5 new words a day. She will totally be ready for school by the fall. Speaking of which, we plan to start her in 1st grade in September. She is so excited for school already.
Isabella is doing well. She is also finding her place in the family now and will soon be the big sister in the house (Briana is going to be a senior this year). She really misses Briana. Mahlet loves Isabella, which is no surprise, animals and kids all love Isabella. She just has this "thing".
I returned to work 2 weeks ago. It was hard as it was right at the beginning of summer break, but Doug is staying home with the girls for now. He is a great dad, but is ready to be back at work for the mental stimulation.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
What day is it?
Well, I realized that I haven't been good about posting. Where do people find the time to keep up with this? Okay, to be honest I have the time, I just don't think about it. We are having too much fun enjoying our new daughter and keeping up with our 4 girls!
Mahlet is doing very well. We are so lucky. She is sleeping through the night. She takes a nap, but we will be weening her off of that, cause I don't think she really needs it. however, mom and dad enjoy the little break for some alone time.
She has slipped in her eating habits a bit and has gone to all carbs. I hear this is common with older children from Ethiopia when they come here.
She is definately seven years old. We have our power struggles as we both struggle with some launguage barriers. Really, the language isn't a problem until we ask her to do something and she doesn't want to do it and I have no way to explain, so it usually ends in her talking back to me in Amarhic (trust me, talking back sounds the same in any language) and her in a time out.
Everything is new to her. Our trip to the pet store to get more dog food was interesting. The first thing she saw was the wall of fish tanks. She clutched her chest like she was having a heart attack ("It's the big one Elizabeth). When I finally convinced her to walk up to the fish tanks and I showed her there was in fact glass holding them in, she was completely awe struck.
The snack behind glass did not go as well and that is when we left. :-)
For the most part, I understand things are new and stores and malls (which we have not attempted yet) are going to be difficult, but I have to admit some things I never thought would be an issue have come up. For example.... walking to the little park by our house to play. Isabella, Samantha, Mahlet and I all get on our tennis shoes (tennis shoes, a whole 'nother story) and we start heading out to the park. We get about 5 steps off the driveway and she starts screaming in Amharic and crying. She buckles her knees and won't walk. She is pointing to the house. I am standing there like an idiot going, "okay, why is this a big deal? Why would a walk freak her out?" Then I have to figure out what to do. Turn around or keep going? I decide we need to keep going. She has to see that going for a walk doesn't mean we are walking away and not coming home. I'm not even sure that is why she is freaking out, but that is my theory. She I carry part way and then set her down. She takes a few steps and quits walking. I pull her along. The normal 3 minute walk to the park takes about 20 minutes. Once we get there, she has a great time. I think, "Okay, this is good." When it's time to go, she willingly comes along. She asks, "bayt?" Which means home and I say yes. She takes off running full steam. I have to send her sisters after her. I can run, but not as fast as a 7 year old anymore. Once we got home I told Doug, I used to have an old horse that was the same way. It would take him half an hour to go a 1/4 mile down the driveway, but once you turned him around to go home, it would take 30 seconds. LOL!
Again, the other night after dinner we decide to take a family walk. In the nice weather, we love to take family walks after dinner. The dishes can wait, but hanging with the kids can't. Well, we all get our shoes on and she is actually cooperative. We head out and get about the end of the cul-de-sac and she decides that walking is no good. She buckles her knees. So, Doug and I end up dragging her through half our neighborhood with her crying, snot running down in droves (and I mean LOTS of snot). I have no kleenex so she has to use a leaf. I keep thinking, our poor neighbors. If I was looking out the window at this specticle I would have to wonder. She did finally walk the last half home, but not without testing all the boundaries.
So, the gist of it is, you just never know what to expect. The things I thought would be difficult, not so much. Then things that I thought would be fine--like going to the park---big ordeals.
I have to say though. I would so recommend an older child from Ethiopia. It's been a really good transition. Even though she gives us a few more things to deal with than Samantha, I think it's more an appropiate reaction. With Samantha we had the hurdle of the chinese nanny telling her to be good or we wouldn't want her, so a lot of her adjustment was false and took a lot longer.
Speaking of Samantha. She is doing okay with the new sister. She has to share the bedroom, so more of an adjustment is required of her.
Briana is heading out to Germany on the 15th! I can't believe she will be gone for a month! How crazy is that? We will miss her. She is a going to be a senior, so a year filled with lots of adjustments. She is looking at colleges and trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up. I tell her to be a good person and make sure that comes with dental. LOL!
Oh, and Mahlet had her check up and she is doing swimmingly. The doctor was very impressed with her overall health. We again, are very blessed.
Mahlet is doing very well. We are so lucky. She is sleeping through the night. She takes a nap, but we will be weening her off of that, cause I don't think she really needs it. however, mom and dad enjoy the little break for some alone time.
She has slipped in her eating habits a bit and has gone to all carbs. I hear this is common with older children from Ethiopia when they come here.
She is definately seven years old. We have our power struggles as we both struggle with some launguage barriers. Really, the language isn't a problem until we ask her to do something and she doesn't want to do it and I have no way to explain, so it usually ends in her talking back to me in Amarhic (trust me, talking back sounds the same in any language) and her in a time out.
Everything is new to her. Our trip to the pet store to get more dog food was interesting. The first thing she saw was the wall of fish tanks. She clutched her chest like she was having a heart attack ("It's the big one Elizabeth). When I finally convinced her to walk up to the fish tanks and I showed her there was in fact glass holding them in, she was completely awe struck.
The snack behind glass did not go as well and that is when we left. :-)
For the most part, I understand things are new and stores and malls (which we have not attempted yet) are going to be difficult, but I have to admit some things I never thought would be an issue have come up. For example.... walking to the little park by our house to play. Isabella, Samantha, Mahlet and I all get on our tennis shoes (tennis shoes, a whole 'nother story) and we start heading out to the park. We get about 5 steps off the driveway and she starts screaming in Amharic and crying. She buckles her knees and won't walk. She is pointing to the house. I am standing there like an idiot going, "okay, why is this a big deal? Why would a walk freak her out?" Then I have to figure out what to do. Turn around or keep going? I decide we need to keep going. She has to see that going for a walk doesn't mean we are walking away and not coming home. I'm not even sure that is why she is freaking out, but that is my theory. She I carry part way and then set her down. She takes a few steps and quits walking. I pull her along. The normal 3 minute walk to the park takes about 20 minutes. Once we get there, she has a great time. I think, "Okay, this is good." When it's time to go, she willingly comes along. She asks, "bayt?" Which means home and I say yes. She takes off running full steam. I have to send her sisters after her. I can run, but not as fast as a 7 year old anymore. Once we got home I told Doug, I used to have an old horse that was the same way. It would take him half an hour to go a 1/4 mile down the driveway, but once you turned him around to go home, it would take 30 seconds. LOL!
Again, the other night after dinner we decide to take a family walk. In the nice weather, we love to take family walks after dinner. The dishes can wait, but hanging with the kids can't. Well, we all get our shoes on and she is actually cooperative. We head out and get about the end of the cul-de-sac and she decides that walking is no good. She buckles her knees. So, Doug and I end up dragging her through half our neighborhood with her crying, snot running down in droves (and I mean LOTS of snot). I have no kleenex so she has to use a leaf. I keep thinking, our poor neighbors. If I was looking out the window at this specticle I would have to wonder. She did finally walk the last half home, but not without testing all the boundaries.
So, the gist of it is, you just never know what to expect. The things I thought would be difficult, not so much. Then things that I thought would be fine--like going to the park---big ordeals.
I have to say though. I would so recommend an older child from Ethiopia. It's been a really good transition. Even though she gives us a few more things to deal with than Samantha, I think it's more an appropiate reaction. With Samantha we had the hurdle of the chinese nanny telling her to be good or we wouldn't want her, so a lot of her adjustment was false and took a lot longer.
Speaking of Samantha. She is doing okay with the new sister. She has to share the bedroom, so more of an adjustment is required of her.
Briana is heading out to Germany on the 15th! I can't believe she will be gone for a month! How crazy is that? We will miss her. She is a going to be a senior, so a year filled with lots of adjustments. She is looking at colleges and trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up. I tell her to be a good person and make sure that comes with dental. LOL!
Oh, and Mahlet had her check up and she is doing swimmingly. The doctor was very impressed with her overall health. We again, are very blessed.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
1 full day home
It's Sunday morning here and we were all up at about 6am. I am actually sleeping at night, Doug is having a little bit harder time adjusting to the time, but really we are doing quite well.
Yesterday was our first full day home. She is still sick, so it's been tough for her in that aspect. It dosn't take long to wear her out. I think the antibiotics are finally kicking in though. She is a bit of a drama queen I am afraid, but wouldn't you be if someone rescued you and gave you hugs and rocked you when you complained your throat hurt. :-) I am pretty sure not much of that went on at the orphanage.
We finally decided to tackle her hair yesterday. It took 2 hours to undo her braids, but mostly because she didn't want to cooperate. Then we finally were able to really see she did in fact have lice. We got out the shampoo and then it was time to sit and work on getting them all out. Well, she has beautiful, yet thick hair. After 1/2 an hour of her throwing her head back and forth and nothing getting done we decided we had no choice but to shave her head. They shaved their heads in the orphange, so it didn't seem too traumatic at first. Ha! it was definately the calm before the storm. I held her in a bear hug, while Doug tried to shave her head as it is flaying about. She cried for almost 2 hours before passing out. Not sure if it the trauma of just the change, or if they were not nice about shaving their heads in the orphanage or if it was losing her hair. In a way I am glad we shaved it, because it was so damaged from not being taken care of.
This morning she woke up early with me and we snuggled on the couch for about an hour. Doug got her to eat some eggs. That is another thing, she has not had anything except Ethiopian food her entire life. The Ehiopians rarely use sugar and they have no "desserts". We are trying to limit giving her these items as I am sure she will be introduced to them soon enough. She doesn't even like apple juice. She loves carbs though. Will eat lots of bread if you let her.
She really doesn't like Keesha (our dog), but is warming up to her as well. She doesn't shriek loud enough to shatter windows anymore when Keesha walks into a the same room as her. It's progress.
She does get quite shy and scared whenever there are more than 3 strangers in a room. So, we will definatley be staying close to home for awhile. She had no outside world experiences, as the orphange never took them anywhere, so everything is new. Things we take for granted everyday, like walking into the kitchen for a glass of milke or opening the drawers and pulling out clean clothes and actually have choices. These are all so new. Plus, living in a family environment, learning the rules of just being part of a family. We have no language to explain anything that is happening, but surprising smiles and hugs mean the same thing in every language.
I still can't believe we have only been home for 2 days. We are excited that the kids have a long weekend and then soon summer vacation in 8 days.
The next 2 weeks will be filled with doctors appointments and just laying as low as possible without going nuts.
Happy Memorial Day and thank you to all of you who are serving and have served our great country. We also thank the families who have had to make sacrifices for our country. God Bless you ALL!
Yesterday was our first full day home. She is still sick, so it's been tough for her in that aspect. It dosn't take long to wear her out. I think the antibiotics are finally kicking in though. She is a bit of a drama queen I am afraid, but wouldn't you be if someone rescued you and gave you hugs and rocked you when you complained your throat hurt. :-) I am pretty sure not much of that went on at the orphanage.
We finally decided to tackle her hair yesterday. It took 2 hours to undo her braids, but mostly because she didn't want to cooperate. Then we finally were able to really see she did in fact have lice. We got out the shampoo and then it was time to sit and work on getting them all out. Well, she has beautiful, yet thick hair. After 1/2 an hour of her throwing her head back and forth and nothing getting done we decided we had no choice but to shave her head. They shaved their heads in the orphange, so it didn't seem too traumatic at first. Ha! it was definately the calm before the storm. I held her in a bear hug, while Doug tried to shave her head as it is flaying about. She cried for almost 2 hours before passing out. Not sure if it the trauma of just the change, or if they were not nice about shaving their heads in the orphanage or if it was losing her hair. In a way I am glad we shaved it, because it was so damaged from not being taken care of.
This morning she woke up early with me and we snuggled on the couch for about an hour. Doug got her to eat some eggs. That is another thing, she has not had anything except Ethiopian food her entire life. The Ehiopians rarely use sugar and they have no "desserts". We are trying to limit giving her these items as I am sure she will be introduced to them soon enough. She doesn't even like apple juice. She loves carbs though. Will eat lots of bread if you let her.
She really doesn't like Keesha (our dog), but is warming up to her as well. She doesn't shriek loud enough to shatter windows anymore when Keesha walks into a the same room as her. It's progress.
She does get quite shy and scared whenever there are more than 3 strangers in a room. So, we will definatley be staying close to home for awhile. She had no outside world experiences, as the orphange never took them anywhere, so everything is new. Things we take for granted everyday, like walking into the kitchen for a glass of milke or opening the drawers and pulling out clean clothes and actually have choices. These are all so new. Plus, living in a family environment, learning the rules of just being part of a family. We have no language to explain anything that is happening, but surprising smiles and hugs mean the same thing in every language.
I still can't believe we have only been home for 2 days. We are excited that the kids have a long weekend and then soon summer vacation in 8 days.
The next 2 weeks will be filled with doctors appointments and just laying as low as possible without going nuts.
Happy Memorial Day and thank you to all of you who are serving and have served our great country. We also thank the families who have had to make sacrifices for our country. God Bless you ALL!
Friday, May 28, 2010
We are home
We left Thursday night at 11pm. All the flights were on time and went well (at least the pilots portion). We arrived in the cities at noon on Friday. However, technically we had been traveling like 21 hours and we have been up for 36 hours (then). Doug finally crashed-I think he plans to take the second shift. We did not get to sit together on the flight, so he sat next to Mahlet... I think he deserve a break.
I am really tired and have so much to say, but I know everyone is really just dying to hear about Mahlet. Well, first things first, we are calling her Mahlet...for now. She is very proud of her name and it fits her so well. Plus it's easier to say then we thought. We haven't given up on Emma, just still working out the details.
When we picked Mahlet up from the orphanage she had a pretty icky nose cold. But no fever and didn't seem slowed down in the least, not to mention almost all the kids in our group had a nose cold thing going on. However, it was obvious on Wednesday it wasn't getting better. We tried Benedryl and that at least helped her sleep. By the time we hit the second plane ride today she had a fever. She slept a lot and just didn't look like herself. I really did not want to expose her to the culture shock of a doctors office and tests, but with the long weekend I was getting nervous to wait.
Doctor took a quick peek and was nice enough NOT to draw any blood or do a throat culture or anything that might scare her since we did not have the language to tell her what was going on. He found enough things to justify starting her on antibiotics. Her fever was at 102, her throat is red, her ear is red and a I think he was just thinking there was a million other things. ha! poor kid.
What is her personality like? Well, she is a ham. Once she warms up to you. She is very shy around any more than 2 people in a room. She is super smart. Learned how to run the computer to run her DVD in the first sitting. And she is fabulous with babies. She LOVES them. I am guessing she was a caregiver of sorts to the younger children at the orphanage.
She HATES Keesha, our dog. But that doesn't surprise me. Dogs in Ethiopia are not considered part of the family. Some do have them as pets, but they most run around wild and cause foreigners a lot of headaches at night with all of their barking. I sure hope she comes around soon.
Hmm, I know there is lots to say and I will try to get my thoughts more organized in the next few days.
Thank you so much for everyone, for support, prayers, food, and childcare. This was definately a group effort.
I am really tired and have so much to say, but I know everyone is really just dying to hear about Mahlet. Well, first things first, we are calling her Mahlet...for now. She is very proud of her name and it fits her so well. Plus it's easier to say then we thought. We haven't given up on Emma, just still working out the details.
When we picked Mahlet up from the orphanage she had a pretty icky nose cold. But no fever and didn't seem slowed down in the least, not to mention almost all the kids in our group had a nose cold thing going on. However, it was obvious on Wednesday it wasn't getting better. We tried Benedryl and that at least helped her sleep. By the time we hit the second plane ride today she had a fever. She slept a lot and just didn't look like herself. I really did not want to expose her to the culture shock of a doctors office and tests, but with the long weekend I was getting nervous to wait.
Doctor took a quick peek and was nice enough NOT to draw any blood or do a throat culture or anything that might scare her since we did not have the language to tell her what was going on. He found enough things to justify starting her on antibiotics. Her fever was at 102, her throat is red, her ear is red and a I think he was just thinking there was a million other things. ha! poor kid.
What is her personality like? Well, she is a ham. Once she warms up to you. She is very shy around any more than 2 people in a room. She is super smart. Learned how to run the computer to run her DVD in the first sitting. And she is fabulous with babies. She LOVES them. I am guessing she was a caregiver of sorts to the younger children at the orphanage.
She HATES Keesha, our dog. But that doesn't surprise me. Dogs in Ethiopia are not considered part of the family. Some do have them as pets, but they most run around wild and cause foreigners a lot of headaches at night with all of their barking. I sure hope she comes around soon.
Hmm, I know there is lots to say and I will try to get my thoughts more organized in the next few days.
Thank you so much for everyone, for support, prayers, food, and childcare. This was definately a group effort.
Of course...
the second I post about not hearing from them...I get a text from Katy.
They are home as in, in their house. I do not have any other details, but the main point is that they are all 3 home safe and sound.
I am signing off.
The next post will be from Katy whenever she feels up to it.
WELCOME HOME GRABER FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
They are home as in, in their house. I do not have any other details, but the main point is that they are all 3 home safe and sound.
I am signing off.
The next post will be from Katy whenever she feels up to it.
WELCOME HOME GRABER FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Update!
Today was the embassy day. It was a very long day, but successful. We are approved and don't see that anything that would prevent us from leaving on time.
Today we bought coffee, tea, and Ethiopian spice. And some jewelry as a mission work through the guest house.
Tomorrow we are going shopping. The election went well in the fact that there are no riots. Then we will attend the other families farewell party at the orphanage.
We are almost done. Really, the Bethany staff has been really, really good. The guide is amazing and always with us and they all know Emma for a while so she is comfortable talking with them for us. The staff was really very good at the paperwork and keeping organized.
I will say ,I have not met any Ethiopian people that are not friendly. We are enjoying our time, but ready to be back home. I really miss the girls.
Emma has a great personality. She shares everything. She is acting appropriate,not overly affectionate, but trusting us slowly. She is very smart as well.
Okay, I have to jump off. Hugs the girls. Tell them We love them and miss then. Almost there ladies! Mommy is almost home!!
HUGS AND KISSES,
MOM AND DAD
Monday, May 24, 2010
They are now a Family of 6!!!
Wow, where do I start? First we slept like nothing last night. We were wide awake from 2-5am. Not jet lag, nervous energy about meeting Emma.
My girls-you are going to love Emma/Mahlet. She is smiley happy girl. She is excited to meet you. Samantha she is excited to see your room. She is adjusting really well! We miss you so, so much, but can't believe our trip is almost over.
We got to the orphanage at 8:30am. She was there at the door waiting. We also had a cameraman from the Lifebook following us around. I know I will really appreciate it, but at the time it felt a little claustrophobic. ha! She was standing next to the nanny and apprehensive. We gave her the doll we brought but definitely was just a thing she took with a smile. We gave her a bag of candy to hand out to her friends. They all liked it very much! She even shared with the Bethany guide and the cameraman. Very sharing little girl. There were 6 nannies and they were all in tears giving her hugs good bye. I didn't cry until then. It seemed they all loved her , as well as the children. They were sad to see her go.
She shook our hands - it was cute. On the bus to pick up everyone else, we bonded well over the book Brown Bear. The nannies told me no English at all. She quickly squashed that when were looked at the picture dictionary. She said, Fish, Policeman, Physician. She counted to twenty in English and said half the alphabet. We have a great start to work with.
Next we headed to the Bethany office to fill out the I600. ALL of the staff (about 8) knew her and she knew them. Since we had a long delay it turns out they went to check on her a lot. The head Bethany staff came over and thanked us for waiting and still adopting her. It took about 2 hours here but very organized. We bought some handmade blankets and an outfit to put away for her. It's the only shopping we have done and maybe all we will get. I will be disappointed, but not the purpose of the trip.
We went out to lunch and she ate a lot. Lamb stew with injera. She was very tired, so by the time we got back to the guest house I had her lay down in her bed and I in mine and she quickly fell asleep.
She is so smiley. She has taken our hands and goes with us. She laughs when we tickle her and she loves to play with balloons. She had the photo album we sent in Feb. and kept pointing to her sisters and saying, "my sisters. I am excited to have sisters," That is what the guide said she was saying.
I wish I could send a picture but the internet is terribly slow and I get worried I will lose this whole email. ha!
Hugs to all! Miss you tons!!!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
They are in Addis
Katy just sent me an email about their arrival in Ethiopia. I have copied it below, but first I did want to give aunts, uncles, grandparents and whoever else might be interested an update on the girls. They are doing fabulous. I have no idea is they are enjoying their time with me, but I am enjoying them tremendously. Bright, sweet, funny girls, who clearly are their parents children. I know that while I am thankful to be here and having a great time, I miss my family. There is just no substitute for one's own family, so I suspect the girls are feeling the same and are anxious to get their parents back home, but they are being real troopers. For the most part they are keeping busy. Samantha has had friends over and we have played many, many, many hands of UNO. Briana went to the movies with a friend and has been running around like all almost 17 year olds do. She and Bella went to a Bon Fire with their church youth group last night and seemed to have a great time. We have yummy dinners and delightful dinner conversations. I love listening to them talk and laugh and I espcially love to see them interact with each other. We had plans to head to the local outdoor zoo, but the weather is not cooperating, so we have not had much outdoor time. In an effort to not feel cooped up, we are going to head to Katy's favorite place...The Mall Of America. In all my visits I have had one whirlwind mad dash through the mall as Katy despises the place. Since the girls and I are in no hurry, we don't really care about the crowds and whatnot, so we will stroll and perhaps get shoved a bit and grab a bite to eat and just enjoy being out and about. Ok, enough of that, onto the real news... Hello from Addis. It is raining here as well, but just this afternoon. It is the rainy season. We had a good flight to Addis, but there was a storm so the last 10 minutes, not so fun. Was thinking Katie was going to be a mom sooner than later. :-) Our bags showed up. Phew! Getting the Visa was super easy. The driver was at the airport and ready to take us to the guest house. Abel is our Bethany guide. He seems very, very nice and knowlegeable. We didn't get to the guest house until 11:30pm. We got to our room and just crashed. I slept very hard, did not hear a thing and they had to wake us up for breakfast. Doug said he didn't sleep as well, barking dogs and pray chants over megaphones kept him awake. Doug is doing stupendously. Thank you for the prayers. Staying the room in Amsterdam was probably the best decision. I think he slept probaby 16 hours. This morning we had pancakes for breatkfast and then went to church. Church was amazing. The singing and the passion were incredible. Didn't understand a darned thing, but could feel the passion and spirit of God through these people. The people are so gracious. Excepting and nice. For lunch we had Doro wat which is a chicken stew. It takes a day and a half to prepare. It is spicy, but very good. They are treating us like kings and queens. There are two families at the guest house and they got their babies yesterday. Ethiopians are literraly a gorgeous people. One more family arrives late tonight. Tomorrow morning we leave at 8am and meet Emma. We will not get much time, like a snatch and run thing according to Abel and we are the only family adopting from Gelegela. Orphaange. We then will accompanying the other families to their orphanges to meet their childen and participate in their farewell ceremony. I am torn about this, as I am sure it will not be a good time for Emma to see all the babies getting special treatment and she gets shoved on a bus. We will try to make it good. We will head to the Bethany office in the afternoon and fill out paperwork and see the nurse. I guess their is a medical check up. We are anxious excited and nervous for tomorrow. Prayers are appreciated. Oh, the elections are today, but nothing exciting happening outside. Thank Goodness! Okay, I had better get off as I might be pushing it. HUGS AND LOVE TO ALL! Katy |
Friday, May 21, 2010
Amsterdam
I got a quick email from Katy this afternoon. They made it to Amsterdam!!!!!
Things are for the most part good. As with most international travel and all adoption journeys, there were some bumps in the road. I have copied a bit of her email...
But by the time we got to the room we have made lots of jokes about wearing the same shirt for the next five days. We have no idea what Emma will get to wear. LOL! I have never, ever have had my luggage lost and the weird thing is both bags??? So we are really being optimistic and thinking they just routed the bags ahead to Addis.
P.S. Tell the girls we love them and miss them terribly already!!!
Things are for the most part good. As with most international travel and all adoption journeys, there were some bumps in the road. I have copied a bit of her email...
The flight here was smooth. However we were stuck in the middle of the middle row, so no sleep for either of us. We landed on time (about 10:30am their time). We ran into a couple from Hugo, MN that is also staying overnight here. They are adopting a 7 month old AND 61/2 month old baby girls. They are not siblings. They have a 13 month old at home. The process went super fast for them, so they thought they would have 9 more months. ha! They seemed so young, but very, very sweet. We departed ways as they were heading out to find a hotel. We head down to baggage claim to discover that neither of our bags where there. Off to file a lost report. We are so, so hoping that they just routed them straight through to Addis. Thankfully, I packed underwear and socks in the carry on and we will probably go by cheesy Netherland t-shirts for the trip tomorrow.
The hotel is connected to the airport, so it literally a 2 minute walk. We head to the room and decide to sleep 2 hours before taking the train to the city center. Doug woke up and is not feeling well. He has had a slight fever and seems clammy, so we are staying close to the room. Makes for a long day, especially when there really is no TV.
The hotel is connected to the airport, so it literally a 2 minute walk. We head to the room and decide to sleep 2 hours before taking the train to the city center. Doug woke up and is not feeling well. He has had a slight fever and seems clammy, so we are staying close to the room. Makes for a long day, especially when there really is no TV.
But by the time we got to the room we have made lots of jokes about wearing the same shirt for the next five days. We have no idea what Emma will get to wear. LOL! I have never, ever have had my luggage lost and the weird thing is both bags??? So we are really being optimistic and thinking they just routed the bags ahead to Addis.
Tomorrow our flight is at 10am ish.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
They're Off
Howdy all, Shelby here, Graber family friend. Wanted to let everyone know that Katy and Doug got off to the airport just fine and their plane left at 8pm this evening. Next stop Amsterdam.
Internet and phone reception are spotty at best in Ethiopia, so I can't guarantee daily updates, but I will post as I hear from them.
I am sure they would appreciate every one's prayers.
Internet and phone reception are spotty at best in Ethiopia, so I can't guarantee daily updates, but I will post as I hear from them.
I am sure they would appreciate every one's prayers.
Monday, May 17, 2010
4 days and counting...
Okay the weird thing about this. I am still working and plan on being at work thru Wednesday. The packing is done. (mostly). We have decided to go with cash donations instead of bringing stuff. We have a few pairs of tennis shoes but other than that, cash it is. (I hear they prefer that anyway, so they can get what they really need).
We had a scare this weekened and didn't have a sitter for the girls. I have to admit, I handled it with grace, style and dignaty....as long as that means, crying, fetal position, yelling and screaming. :-)
Uber thank you to Shelby for flying halfway across the country to stay with the kiddos for a week. My brother Dirk and his wife, Brandi will cover the last two days. After that, they are on their own. :-)
Another scare this morning, the ash cloud over London will affect our travel if it keeps up. So pray that goes away. Far, far away!!!
We are feeling good. prepared (as we can be) and glad that it is finally here!
We had a scare this weekened and didn't have a sitter for the girls. I have to admit, I handled it with grace, style and dignaty....as long as that means, crying, fetal position, yelling and screaming. :-)
Uber thank you to Shelby for flying halfway across the country to stay with the kiddos for a week. My brother Dirk and his wife, Brandi will cover the last two days. After that, they are on their own. :-)
Another scare this morning, the ash cloud over London will affect our travel if it keeps up. So pray that goes away. Far, far away!!!
We are feeling good. prepared (as we can be) and glad that it is finally here!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Leavin' on a Jet Plane
The Power of Prayer! It works (now duh!)
We got our travel call yesterday morning. We are so, so excited to finally be going. We are leaving next Thursday...one week. yesterday I spent a lot of time on the phone with travel agents and airlines to find tickets. First we were going for price, then ease of return flights and then it was, "Ok, what can we actually get?". After 55 minutes on the phone with Delta (the second time-I won't go into the first time) we actually got pretty decent flights and the price was rockin'.
Doug and I leave on Thursday the 20th at 7:50pm. We fly to Amsterdam and then have a 24 hour layover. We fly from Amersterdam the following night to Addis, Ethiopia. So we actually arrive in Ethiopia the late night of the the 22nd. My guess is we will meet our daughter on Monday. Our embassy date is the 25th and then we can pick up her Visa on the 27th. We will fly out on the night of the 27th and arrive home on Friday, May 28th around noon. It's a fast trip, but our main focus is to get Emma. Site seeing will come on a later trip.
We ask for continued prayers for our children left at home, safe travels, and of course for Emma. Who is leaving a life of knowns to come to a big world of unknowns. How scared she is going to feel can not be put into words.
I will be posting more the next week with more information on where we are staying and a better iternary schedule. My friend has graciously agreed to keep up the blog while we are Ethiopia. The internet connection is very sketchy at times so having one point of contact is the best.
I can't believe we are really going!?!?!?!!
We got our travel call yesterday morning. We are so, so excited to finally be going. We are leaving next Thursday...one week. yesterday I spent a lot of time on the phone with travel agents and airlines to find tickets. First we were going for price, then ease of return flights and then it was, "Ok, what can we actually get?". After 55 minutes on the phone with Delta (the second time-I won't go into the first time) we actually got pretty decent flights and the price was rockin'.
Doug and I leave on Thursday the 20th at 7:50pm. We fly to Amsterdam and then have a 24 hour layover. We fly from Amersterdam the following night to Addis, Ethiopia. So we actually arrive in Ethiopia the late night of the the 22nd. My guess is we will meet our daughter on Monday. Our embassy date is the 25th and then we can pick up her Visa on the 27th. We will fly out on the night of the 27th and arrive home on Friday, May 28th around noon. It's a fast trip, but our main focus is to get Emma. Site seeing will come on a later trip.
We ask for continued prayers for our children left at home, safe travels, and of course for Emma. Who is leaving a life of knowns to come to a big world of unknowns. How scared she is going to feel can not be put into words.
I will be posting more the next week with more information on where we are staying and a better iternary schedule. My friend has graciously agreed to keep up the blog while we are Ethiopia. The internet connection is very sketchy at times so having one point of contact is the best.
I can't believe we are really going!?!?!?!!
Friday, May 7, 2010
I am asking everyone I know; family, friends, church members, and people I don't even know to intercede on our behalf with prayer.
Saturday morning at 9AM, whatever you are doing we are asking that everyone stop and say a prayer on behalf of our family. That we may get our daughter's Visa and finally travel. On Monday it will be 14 weeks since we passed court.
God has had his hand in this entire adoption. I could write a book (and maybe one day I will) on how this adoption is all GOD. He was the beginning, the middle and he will be the end. If we started it with prayer, we need to end it with prayer.
Please join us on Saturday, May 8th at 9AM, to pray for the Graber family and *M* to be brought together on one continent, one house, and one family.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Phillipians 4:6
Saturday morning at 9AM, whatever you are doing we are asking that everyone stop and say a prayer on behalf of our family. That we may get our daughter's Visa and finally travel. On Monday it will be 14 weeks since we passed court.
God has had his hand in this entire adoption. I could write a book (and maybe one day I will) on how this adoption is all GOD. He was the beginning, the middle and he will be the end. If we started it with prayer, we need to end it with prayer.
Please join us on Saturday, May 8th at 9AM, to pray for the Graber family and *M* to be brought together on one continent, one house, and one family.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Phillipians 4:6
Monday, April 19, 2010
April what??
I can't believe it's April 19th already. Another month is passing by. While it's happening it seems so slow, but once it's gone I think, "It can't be another month without a travel date?"
Yes, I am completely and utterly out of words at this point. Our last update that we passed all the road-blocks apparently wasn't enough. It's very difficult to work with several different people, on different continents, through different agencies, governments and non-governments. In your mind you know that everyone is doing the best they can, with the limited resources they have, but your mother's heart will not be satisfied that they are doing enough. :-(
The good news is, we have had lots of distractions this month. My very good friend and Elison founder, Shelby. Flew in and spent the weekend with me. We went shopping, shopping, shopping and even ate some Ethiopian food "in the hood" of St. Paul, MN. The food was very good and the shopping was excellent, but the time spent with friends was the best!
The past weekend, we celebrated Samantha's and Isabella's birthday. My girls are getting so big! Samantha turned nine and her present was finally getting her ears pierced. She looks so cute, I mean "grown-up." Isabella turned 12 and we took her to get her first cell phone. She was definately shocked/excited. Thankfully, she is not a squily girl, just very thankful with a big grin sort of way. She is learning to become a master texter already. In fact, I think she has sent more texts in three days, then in all the years her 16 year sister has had a phone. ha!
Briana has a birthday coming in May, but her big treat will be heading to WAshington, D.C. May 15th for the National Rocket finals. Her rocket team made it to nationals for the first time in 3 years! She is beyond excited and she should be. They have all worked very hard! We wish we could be there, but hopefully her father and I will be on our own plane to Ethiopia.
The next embassy date to pray for is May 11th. So everyone, start your prayers and keep your fingers crossed. It's time to get this Graber girl home!
HUGS from Minnesota
Yes, I am completely and utterly out of words at this point. Our last update that we passed all the road-blocks apparently wasn't enough. It's very difficult to work with several different people, on different continents, through different agencies, governments and non-governments. In your mind you know that everyone is doing the best they can, with the limited resources they have, but your mother's heart will not be satisfied that they are doing enough. :-(
The good news is, we have had lots of distractions this month. My very good friend and Elison founder, Shelby. Flew in and spent the weekend with me. We went shopping, shopping, shopping and even ate some Ethiopian food "in the hood" of St. Paul, MN. The food was very good and the shopping was excellent, but the time spent with friends was the best!
The past weekend, we celebrated Samantha's and Isabella's birthday. My girls are getting so big! Samantha turned nine and her present was finally getting her ears pierced. She looks so cute, I mean "grown-up." Isabella turned 12 and we took her to get her first cell phone. She was definately shocked/excited. Thankfully, she is not a squily girl, just very thankful with a big grin sort of way. She is learning to become a master texter already. In fact, I think she has sent more texts in three days, then in all the years her 16 year sister has had a phone. ha!
Briana has a birthday coming in May, but her big treat will be heading to WAshington, D.C. May 15th for the National Rocket finals. Her rocket team made it to nationals for the first time in 3 years! She is beyond excited and she should be. They have all worked very hard! We wish we could be there, but hopefully her father and I will be on our own plane to Ethiopia.
The next embassy date to pray for is May 11th. So everyone, start your prayers and keep your fingers crossed. It's time to get this Graber girl home!
HUGS from Minnesota
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Happy Easter weekend
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. "For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through Him. " John 3:16
*It's frustrating to have such a limited blog, but we did have our first encouraging news today since our very disappointing news a month ago. We have learned that our paperwork indeed completed a process and is moving onto the next phase. Our agency is hoping for specific news to follow within the next 2 weeks.
There are only two embassy dates in April, the first is the 9th (which we probably won't make), the second is April 27th. We are praying diligently for this to be our date, so our wait can be over. Of course, we do realize that when it's time for everything to come together it will. This has definately been a difficult season in all my parenting life.
We again, can not thank everyone for their continued prayer and support for our family.
May you all remember the reason for celebrating Easter. May you be close to family and loved ones and may you remember to say a prayer for your blessings!
*It's frustrating to have such a limited blog, but we did have our first encouraging news today since our very disappointing news a month ago. We have learned that our paperwork indeed completed a process and is moving onto the next phase. Our agency is hoping for specific news to follow within the next 2 weeks.
There are only two embassy dates in April, the first is the 9th (which we probably won't make), the second is April 27th. We are praying diligently for this to be our date, so our wait can be over. Of course, we do realize that when it's time for everything to come together it will. This has definately been a difficult season in all my parenting life.
We again, can not thank everyone for their continued prayer and support for our family.
May you all remember the reason for celebrating Easter. May you be close to family and loved ones and may you remember to say a prayer for your blessings!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
All good things come to those who wait
I have to be honest here. It has taken me a week to be able to write this post. Why? Because somehow writing it down makes it real and I was really hoping it was a cruel joke.
The story is long and I won't bore you with the dirty details, but what is boils down to is we will not get to travel for a 8 weeks.
Our little adoption "travel" group is leaving today to pick up their children and here we sit with bags packed, a sitter ready, and 3 girls at home on the edge of their seats waiting to bring another sister into their lives.
Receiving news of another delay was like getting "hit in the chest with a sledgehammer"...or so I would assume, since I have never been hit in the chest with a sledgehammer. (ha!)
We are surrounded by the BEST family and friends on earth. I've received numerous emails and calls. All with words of encouragement. However, being completely honest, I did not want to be soothed or made happy. It's was not a happy moment for us. In fact, it's not a happy week. It's been quite stressful. "patience is a virture", "good things come to those who wait", "all in God's timing". Great phrases, but not real comforting when you are seconds away from touching your child and it's pulled away from you. I am fortunate enough to be a biological mom, as well as an adoptive mom. That moment felt like I was in delivery, pushing, screaming, crying, and out pops this wonderful baby. Now imagine the doctor holding the baby up, saying, "Congratulations it's a girl, but you can't have her for eight weeks...maybe".Than you watch the doctor turn and walk out the door with your baby. ... That was our moment.
Am I whining? Yes! Am I proud of it...no. But, it's the truth. Feelings are feelings you can't control them. I am feeling empty, useless, helpless, and tired. Very, very tired.
On the flip side, we have many, many blessings. The adoption is still moving forward and eight weeks, is now down to seven. Spring is in the air and Emma will come home to nice warm weather instead of 20 below. The girls at home are taking this all in great stride (better than their mom). I am so, so thankful that God is in control because, for the brief moments I think I have control, he rapps my fingers and says, "back off, this is mine to handle for you. You enjoy the moment you're in and let tomorrow come tomorrow."
Ecclesisates 3:4 "A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance"
I think Solomon was going through an international adoption when he wrote that. ;-)
The story is long and I won't bore you with the dirty details, but what is boils down to is we will not get to travel for a 8 weeks.
Our little adoption "travel" group is leaving today to pick up their children and here we sit with bags packed, a sitter ready, and 3 girls at home on the edge of their seats waiting to bring another sister into their lives.
Receiving news of another delay was like getting "hit in the chest with a sledgehammer"...or so I would assume, since I have never been hit in the chest with a sledgehammer. (ha!)
We are surrounded by the BEST family and friends on earth. I've received numerous emails and calls. All with words of encouragement. However, being completely honest, I did not want to be soothed or made happy. It's was not a happy moment for us. In fact, it's not a happy week. It's been quite stressful. "patience is a virture", "good things come to those who wait", "all in God's timing". Great phrases, but not real comforting when you are seconds away from touching your child and it's pulled away from you. I am fortunate enough to be a biological mom, as well as an adoptive mom. That moment felt like I was in delivery, pushing, screaming, crying, and out pops this wonderful baby. Now imagine the doctor holding the baby up, saying, "Congratulations it's a girl, but you can't have her for eight weeks...maybe".Than you watch the doctor turn and walk out the door with your baby. ... That was our moment.
Am I whining? Yes! Am I proud of it...no. But, it's the truth. Feelings are feelings you can't control them. I am feeling empty, useless, helpless, and tired. Very, very tired.
On the flip side, we have many, many blessings. The adoption is still moving forward and eight weeks, is now down to seven. Spring is in the air and Emma will come home to nice warm weather instead of 20 below. The girls at home are taking this all in great stride (better than their mom). I am so, so thankful that God is in control because, for the brief moments I think I have control, he rapps my fingers and says, "back off, this is mine to handle for you. You enjoy the moment you're in and let tomorrow come tomorrow."
Ecclesisates 3:4 "A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance"
I think Solomon was going through an international adoption when he wrote that. ;-)
Friday, February 26, 2010
Through the eyes of a child....
This was in Emma's update that we received yesterday. It needs no intro.
The social worker asked her what she thinks of going to USA with her families, she was very happy. And when she was asked "Why?" she said “My parents will play with me, make me happy and send me to school".
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So many times during the adoption process we hear the statement, " you are doing great things. This child is so lucky." We are not doing great things, we are doing the thing that God has called all of us to do. Take care of the orphans. Her needs are not material, all she is asking for is someone to love her and care for her. In many parts of the world it's a privilage to go to school, it costs money. A child views it as love.
It's so darn easy to love these kids. They want it, they hang on every moment of your time, every word you say. If I tell Samantha we are spending the afternoon together one day, you would think I told her she would never have to do a chore again. It's not about what we do that day. If I give her 2 hours of uninterrupted mommy time that is a hundered pounds of golden love. How lucky am I to receive that gift from her? I can give Emma material things, but it's all about the LOVE exchange. It's hard to put into words and one day I hope you all understand, that Doug andI are the lucky ones. God is giving us the greatest gift ever, the gift of love all wrapped up in a little girls body.
The social worker asked her what she thinks of going to USA with her families, she was very happy. And when she was asked "Why?" she said “My parents will play with me, make me happy and send me to school".
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So many times during the adoption process we hear the statement, " you are doing great things. This child is so lucky." We are not doing great things, we are doing the thing that God has called all of us to do. Take care of the orphans. Her needs are not material, all she is asking for is someone to love her and care for her. In many parts of the world it's a privilage to go to school, it costs money. A child views it as love.
It's so darn easy to love these kids. They want it, they hang on every moment of your time, every word you say. If I tell Samantha we are spending the afternoon together one day, you would think I told her she would never have to do a chore again. It's not about what we do that day. If I give her 2 hours of uninterrupted mommy time that is a hundered pounds of golden love. How lucky am I to receive that gift from her? I can give Emma material things, but it's all about the LOVE exchange. It's hard to put into words and one day I hope you all understand, that Doug andI are the lucky ones. God is giving us the greatest gift ever, the gift of love all wrapped up in a little girls body.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
"Strange things are afoot at the Circle K"
10 points for whoever can guess where that is from. (OKay, I know it's an easy one).
It's been an exciting couple of days this week. First we celebrated Emma's birthday via video camera. I am sure the DVD will bring her much amusement in the years ahead, but we had fun making it.
Yesterday we got an update from our social worker that we passed a hurdle that might let us travel by mid-March. We are very exicted and while it will only give us about a weeks notice we really hope we get that Mid-March embassy date.
Today we got another update on Emma. There were pictures attached and in the pictures she is wearing the clothes we sent for her birthday and holding the doll! It was so thoughtful of them to include in the pictures the things we sent for her.
Keep us in our prayers the coming week as we try to remain calm, cool, and collected enough to pack and organize.
It's been an exciting couple of days this week. First we celebrated Emma's birthday via video camera. I am sure the DVD will bring her much amusement in the years ahead, but we had fun making it.
Yesterday we got an update from our social worker that we passed a hurdle that might let us travel by mid-March. We are very exicted and while it will only give us about a weeks notice we really hope we get that Mid-March embassy date.
Today we got another update on Emma. There were pictures attached and in the pictures she is wearing the clothes we sent for her birthday and holding the doll! It was so thoughtful of them to include in the pictures the things we sent for her.
Keep us in our prayers the coming week as we try to remain calm, cool, and collected enough to pack and organize.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Wishes, excitement and anxiety...oh my!
Since I do not have a private blog and it would take me forever to figure out how to set a private blog, I have to keep this blog very generic. While it can be challanging at times it is also great to be able to share with so many people who wish to be lingerers.
The incredible Deutschland family just returned home Sunday night from Ethiopia. They took our daughters birthday package with them. They were unable to give her the present directly, so no pictures of that, but the important thing is she knows that there is a family in the US waiting for her and wanting to celebrate her milestones whether she is near or far from us.
The waiting this week is getting very difficult. There are murmors on the board and someone got their travel call which only intensifies the situation. Part of me is thankful we don't have our call yet, because I feel like I still have so much to do. But mostly, I could be packed and on a plane in 48 hours if I was required to be.
Things I have learned about traveling to Ethiopia-
Bring a flashlight-electricity is a luxury
The people are amazing-there has not been one person I have talked to yet that has said anything other than the people of Ethiopia are the kindess people they have ever met. I guess Minnesota nice met it's match! :-)
Coffee is an artform-you don't run to the local coffee joint and hope to get it in 30 seconds or less, there is a coffee ceremony. They are very proud of their chief export and it's very good!
Last, but not least...They love their children!
Thank you to all of those who have asked and are praying for us. We are tired of the waiting, but it's not our decision to make, so we we wait un-patiently on stand-bye.
Clip from "Dear Sweet Daughter" by Gayle Leubecker
I'll be right there to get you just as soon as God allows.
But til He says the time is right I give to you this vow.
I'll pray for your protection every night on bended knee.
For God will hold you in His arms, until you're here with me.
The incredible Deutschland family just returned home Sunday night from Ethiopia. They took our daughters birthday package with them. They were unable to give her the present directly, so no pictures of that, but the important thing is she knows that there is a family in the US waiting for her and wanting to celebrate her milestones whether she is near or far from us.
The waiting this week is getting very difficult. There are murmors on the board and someone got their travel call which only intensifies the situation. Part of me is thankful we don't have our call yet, because I feel like I still have so much to do. But mostly, I could be packed and on a plane in 48 hours if I was required to be.
Things I have learned about traveling to Ethiopia-
Bring a flashlight-electricity is a luxury
The people are amazing-there has not been one person I have talked to yet that has said anything other than the people of Ethiopia are the kindess people they have ever met. I guess Minnesota nice met it's match! :-)
Coffee is an artform-you don't run to the local coffee joint and hope to get it in 30 seconds or less, there is a coffee ceremony. They are very proud of their chief export and it's very good!
Last, but not least...They love their children!
Thank you to all of those who have asked and are praying for us. We are tired of the waiting, but it's not our decision to make, so we we wait un-patiently on stand-bye.
Clip from "Dear Sweet Daughter" by Gayle Leubecker
I'll be right there to get you just as soon as God allows.
But til He says the time is right I give to you this vow.
I'll pray for your protection every night on bended knee.
For God will hold you in His arms, until you're here with me.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
The package is in the air
The wonderful family that is taking our daugther's package is leaving today. I am being a little selfish and hoping they will send me pictures of "Emma".
Still no word on travel, but doing okay about that. Work is crazy busy. I have turned the guest room into the packing staging room and anytime I think of something I need to bring I open the door and fling it onto the bed in there. It's definately going to be interesting when it's time to pack it all. how much do you need for one week?! I'll post that list later....
Still no word on travel, but doing okay about that. Work is crazy busy. I have turned the guest room into the packing staging room and anytime I think of something I need to bring I open the door and fling it onto the bed in there. It's definately going to be interesting when it's time to pack it all. how much do you need for one week?! I'll post that list later....
Friday, February 5, 2010
Travel when?!?
Everyone's adoptions are different. It depends on domestic or international. If it's international, which country? It also depends on your agency. My friend is actually leaving next for Ethiopia to pick up their baby son. They passed court around Christmas and found out their travel date about 10 days after passing court. Plenty of time to buy airline tickets and find someone to stay with their kiddos back home.
Well, after much research on our agencies blog, I am discovering; for some reason our agency only gives you about 10-12 days notice before you travel. YIKES!!
I am have to admit I am starting to panic some. The short notice to travel doesn't scare me as much as trying to find someone to stay with the kids. They have school and need to be here. Samantha especially will need the stability and routine. So, if you all could pray that someone is able to step forward and stay with our kids (and Keesha).
Some great news this week! While we are not able to be with our daughter for her birthday at the end of February, I was able to locate a family to take her a birthday present. They are leaving next week. And get this...they are adopting 2 kids from our daughters orphange. Which is a small orphange, so it's amazing. Our kids are probably great friends! This family was definately an answer to prayer! We can not thank them enough for this special gift.
It's been a great week all in all. I never realized how much stress waiting for court had on me and our family. Holding your breathe for that long does makes you a little crazy (it's that lack of oxygen.)
It's getting close....
Well, after much research on our agencies blog, I am discovering; for some reason our agency only gives you about 10-12 days notice before you travel. YIKES!!
I am have to admit I am starting to panic some. The short notice to travel doesn't scare me as much as trying to find someone to stay with the kids. They have school and need to be here. Samantha especially will need the stability and routine. So, if you all could pray that someone is able to step forward and stay with our kids (and Keesha).
Some great news this week! While we are not able to be with our daughter for her birthday at the end of February, I was able to locate a family to take her a birthday present. They are leaving next week. And get this...they are adopting 2 kids from our daughters orphange. Which is a small orphange, so it's amazing. Our kids are probably great friends! This family was definately an answer to prayer! We can not thank them enough for this special gift.
It's been a great week all in all. I never realized how much stress waiting for court had on me and our family. Holding your breathe for that long does makes you a little crazy (it's that lack of oxygen.)
It's getting close....
Monday, February 1, 2010
WE PASSED COURT!!
Phew!! What a very long month it has been and a very long day! We are so excited that we passed this time around and didn't have to live through another re-scheduling of court dates. We are officially new parents again!!!
Too soon to give you news on travel, but it's been about 6-8 weeks after you pass court. So that puts us around mid-late March.
The girls are so excited. We have all just been holding our breathes. There is so much to do to get ready for travel, but hopefully there is no more glitches and it's all down hill from here.
Thank you everyone for your prayers and kind words over the last week and especially the last 24 hours. We couldn't have done it without all the support from everyone!
Too soon to give you news on travel, but it's been about 6-8 weeks after you pass court. So that puts us around mid-late March.
The girls are so excited. We have all just been holding our breathes. There is so much to do to get ready for travel, but hopefully there is no more glitches and it's all down hill from here.
Thank you everyone for your prayers and kind words over the last week and especially the last 24 hours. We couldn't have done it without all the support from everyone!
Friday, January 29, 2010
9 hours ahed!!
Okay, this is it. We are going out full force and asking for all prayers and good thoughts on Sunday night here in the United States, as they will be starting their work day in Ethiopia. Our court date is Feb. 1st, by the time it's 9AM on Feb. 1st in the United States it should all be over in Ethiopia and hopefully our papers will have a big old "PASSED" stamp on it!
We ask that you keep not only our family in your prayers, but all the families in waiting, children in waiting, staff at the orphanages and MOWA, judges and everyone involved that make these adoptions happen everyday. We will never meet most of these people, but we know they are out there. So...thank you.
We ask that you keep not only our family in your prayers, but all the families in waiting, children in waiting, staff at the orphanages and MOWA, judges and everyone involved that make these adoptions happen everyday. We will never meet most of these people, but we know they are out there. So...thank you.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
What to expect when your expecting???
I am not sure what to expect while you are expecting, but I can tell you what to expect while you are waiting during an adoption (from my point of view at least).
You can expect to be flooded with very awesome emails, notes, and phone calls. Our family and friends have been super great about standing by and supporting us. Thank you everyone!
You can expect..."It's not a baby shower." Our new daughter will have a new outfit to wear everyday for a month or more. Plus, she now has a plethera of Target gift cards to keep her in new clothes for the next year. Thank you everyone!
You can expect, "So, when are you traveling?" To be asked at least 10 times each day. I don't mind this question, because it means people care enough to ask you about your new family member.
You can expect to cry suddenly at the what seem the oddest times. Example: playing a board game with your other children and realize there is someone missing.
You can expect to worry over nothing or something completely out of your control. Trust me on this one...you can actually make up the weirdest things to worry about. "What if she is allergic to milk?" LOL!
The best thing you can expect....that yes, one day, you will actually get to stop expecting, because your new daughter will be home with you!
Keep us in your prayers, especially FEB 1st!
THANK YOU EVERYONE!
You can expect to be flooded with very awesome emails, notes, and phone calls. Our family and friends have been super great about standing by and supporting us. Thank you everyone!
You can expect..."It's not a baby shower." Our new daughter will have a new outfit to wear everyday for a month or more. Plus, she now has a plethera of Target gift cards to keep her in new clothes for the next year. Thank you everyone!
You can expect, "So, when are you traveling?" To be asked at least 10 times each day. I don't mind this question, because it means people care enough to ask you about your new family member.
You can expect to cry suddenly at the what seem the oddest times. Example: playing a board game with your other children and realize there is someone missing.
You can expect to worry over nothing or something completely out of your control. Trust me on this one...you can actually make up the weirdest things to worry about. "What if she is allergic to milk?" LOL!
The best thing you can expect....that yes, one day, you will actually get to stop expecting, because your new daughter will be home with you!
Keep us in your prayers, especially FEB 1st!
THANK YOU EVERYONE!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Not great news...
Our wonderful SW made some calls and found out that our court date has been moved to Feb. 1st. We are at a loss for words and quite sadden by the delay, but we are confident that they are doign everything they can to get out daughter home to us.
No News Yet!
Well, unfortunately it is almost midnight in Ethiopia so not a big chance we will hear today if we passed court or not. Our SW is pretty confident she will have news sitting in her inbox when she comes into work tomorrow. Let's pray she is right!
How crazy that our daughter may know she is adopted before her parents??
How crazy that our daughter may know she is adopted before her parents??
Court Date
Well, it's here! Hopefully we will know soon if we passed as it is already supper time in Ethiopia.
Please pray we pass the first time so we can get her home all the faster.
Please pray we pass the first time so we can get her home all the faster.
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