tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78588109190335338942012-02-08T09:01:34.743-06:004 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.comBlogger5841100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-52971731020903779682012-01-31T10:19:00.001-06:002012-01-31T10:19:49.965-06:00

I had a wonderful time at the Created for Care retreat this past weekend.  It was once again, more than I could have imagined.  Andrea and her team did such a fabulous job!  If you are an adoptive momma or someone who supports adoption through love and friendship, you will love this retreat. (The view of the lake from our balcony)  There are still a few spots available for the

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-26383617445196696852012-01-26T06:26:00.001-06:002012-01-26T06:27:10.730-06:00

If you had met me ten years ago and then suddenly fast forwarded to the present, I don’t think you would think I was the same person.  Back then, I thought I had it all figured out.  I had a mental list of how my life was going to play out and I was really good at sticking to the list.  The list was very detailed, but the basics were that we (my husband and I) were going to have two

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-38506012560051706462012-01-24T10:51:00.000-06:002012-01-24T11:27:00.778-06:00

My son, Cade, has a very creative mind.   He loves building with Legos.  He can sit in his room and create for hours.  Some of his creations are very elaborate and detailed and yet others are simple and unique.   The other day he came to me and showed me a creation.  He excitedly said, "Hey Mom!  Check it out!"  Honestly, I had no idea what I was looking at.  When I looked at it all I saw

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-15878633203141693112012-01-18T16:24:00.000-06:002012-01-18T21:20:15.890-06:00

    Ryann was playing with her doctor kit and Cade walked in the room. He started to sing: "Doctor, Doctor, give me your shoes!"   I said:  "Umm, Cade...I am pretty sure the song goes:  Doctor, Doctor, give me the news." Ryann continued to play doctor and Elijah was her patient. She said to E:  "Tell me, do your feelings hurt?"   Last night, I was getting ready to read Ryann her bedtime

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-24646273581540219532012-01-12T11:54:00.000-06:002012-01-12T13:47:17.103-06:00

We celebrated Ryann and Elijah's birthdays on Sunday.  They both have December birthdays that are two weeks apart.  December is so hard to schedule anything, so this year we celebrated in January.  The party theme was a princess and pirate party at a hands-on children's museum.  It was such a fun day! My friend, Tara, created the most adorable invites!  If you are looking for invites and

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-84852880822633753592012-01-10T10:18:00.001-06:002012-01-12T13:46:59.026-06:00

(photo source) I have several prayer requests that are heavy on my heart right now and I would be so thankful if you would join me in praying for these people.   For a friend who is currently facing health issues and separation in her marriage For a family member who was recently diagnosed with diabetes For families that are currently waiting in their adoptions For a family

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-24506891763307397692012-01-09T05:06:00.000-06:002012-01-09T05:19:52.933-06:00

I am so pleased to introduce you to: Doug, Kristen, and family.  They could be bringing their children home from Ethiopia very very soon. Here is their story shared by Kristen: We are Doug and Kristen, and we have been married since 2005.  Soon after we were married, we started our adoption journey.  Kristen has had a desire to adopt since she was a teenager on the missionfield at an

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-84054094043402974592012-01-06T10:03:00.000-06:002012-01-06T10:03:11.526-06:00

Before Christmas, we took the Littles to their yearly check-up appointments.  While we were there, all of our children received flu shots.  The appointment was early in the morning and by late afternoon, I was on the phone with the doctor and then with 911.  I had to request an ambulance because Cade's lips and throat were swelling. The doctor advised me to call 911 because I would not

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-83298886204817029652011-12-30T06:05:00.000-06:002011-12-30T07:35:30.468-06:00

To my best friend, Our life is often crazy, loud, comical and fabulous. I cannot imagine spending my days with anyone else. You encourage me, love me and strengthen me.   Thank you for always making me laugh and laughing at all of my *fantastic* jokes. 11 years, Baby! I look forward to sitting next to you at the nursing home as we celebrate our 70th anniversary.   I promise I will still

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-24381208182316843552011-12-22T10:11:00.000-06:002011-12-22T10:23:09.962-06:00

{Taking a blogging break until the New Year.  Merry Christmas Everyone!} ©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-57886728374084384522011-12-20T07:15:00.000-06:002011-12-20T07:15:01.301-06:00

Every once in a while my kids think I am the coolest mom ever.  This weekend happened to be one of those moments.  I announced that we were going to have a family movie night and that we were going to get to see a movie that had recently been in theaters.   This news bothered Cade.  Cade has a very tender heart.  He does not like most "family" movies because they include a plot of good

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-20603130326146903272011-12-19T05:16:00.000-06:002011-12-19T05:16:00.476-06:00

His eyes are one hundred different shades of brown and  they sparkle bright enough to light a room. His smile melts your heart. His laugh is contagious. His cuteness is undeniable.  His spirit is unstoppable. His love is deep. He is an absolute blessing   and he is TWO today!  Happy 2nd Birthday Baby Cupcake!  (a too funny nickname that he gave himself) We love you

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-48385854254528512622011-12-16T05:39:00.000-06:002011-12-16T17:35:17.651-06:00

This week's theme at Christy's Christmas series is Christmas: Complete the Sentences.  Just copy the sentences from her post and finish them with your answers.   My favorite part of December is...Christmas Eve.  The excitement and anticipation of the celebration of Christ's birth always fills my heart with joy! {Christmas Eve 2010} The Christmas song I can listen to over and over is...

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-78934497924086197092011-12-12T05:58:00.000-06:002011-12-12T05:58:00.576-06:00

This week I am so happy to introduce you to: Heather and Dave.  They just returned last week from their first trip to Ethiopia to meet their daughter.  They are working so hard to raise the funds for their second trip to bring their daughter home.  Here is their story shared by Heather: We are a family of six. A daddy, a momma, a big sister and three brothers. A large family by most

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-6382222827198407902011-12-09T09:43:00.001-06:002011-12-09T12:55:18.386-06:00

{This week I am once again linking up with Christy's Christmas series.  The theme this week is: traditions.  We have a lot of Christmas traditions in our home.  One of my favorites is our family tree.  It is filled with ornaments of meaning to each individual.  We add new ornaments each year that tell a story about us.  This year as we placed the ornaments that we made last year on the tree,

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-80179834508479595942011-12-08T08:55:00.001-06:002011-12-13T16:20:09.863-06:00

It is funny to me how a big world can become so small.  When we started our adoption process, we did not know a single person that had adopted from Ethiopia.  After seeing Lucy Lane's adoption video and emailing Kristi, we realized that we lived very close to one another.  She invited us to an adoption fellowship event at her house and there she introduced us to Troy and Amber.  They had

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-84891674030933215542011-12-07T08:42:00.001-06:002011-12-07T08:49:02.535-06:00

Want to know an interesting fact?  Cade enjoys antique shopping with Mommy.  We rarely buy anything, but we both enjoy browsing the local antique stores.  Cade seeks out all of the army and war items as well as the antique car items.  We have lots of fun talking about the way things used to be.  Recently, he used some of his birthday money to purchase an antique.   So, what antique did

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-3297508827856618752011-12-05T05:46:00.000-06:002011-12-05T05:46:00.788-06:00

I love all the connections that are made through adoption!  There are so many amazing stories and so many wonderful blessings.  Troy and Kelly are the spotlight family of the week and although I have not met them, we traveled to Ethiopia with their friends, The Burleigh Family.  The Burleigh's were in Ethiopia to bring home their son Markos when we were bringing home Elijah.   To now

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-68049927770439846632011-12-04T06:09:00.000-06:002011-12-04T06:09:00.137-06:00

When Ryann Elizabeth was born, she was three weeks early and my mom and I both commented on how petite her features were.  We thought she was going to be our petite little princess.  My mom and I get quite the laugh out of that now because Ryann is far from petite.  For the last year I cannot tell you how many times I have gotten looks when someone asked how old she was and I said, “She

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-31016068411702967212011-12-02T05:31:00.000-06:002011-12-02T07:32:05.887-06:00

Today, I am linking up with Christy.  She is hosting a Christmas series, where each Friday in December there is a different theme.  This week is Christmas recipes...yummy! (Chef Boyardee) This recipe is completely my husband's.  He rocks this every Christmas morning and family come from all over (okay, only a few miles) to partake in his Christmas morning tradition.  Seriously, ya'll

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-21674147302308316722011-11-29T09:27:00.001-06:002011-11-29T10:15:34.376-06:00

Recently, I have been chatting through emails with Brantley.  If you have not met Brantley and her beautiful family, you really should check out their blog.  We have been chatting about the non-profit organization that they have helped to start called Voices 4 the Voiceless.  Here is how it all began and ways that we can all help, shared by Brantley: Voices 4 the Voiceless was placed

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-55894968440009230212011-11-28T05:23:00.000-06:002011-11-28T05:23:00.637-06:00

 This week I am privileged to share with you, The Thompson Family.  They are adopting from Ethiopia.  The amazing thing is not only are they fundraising for their own adoption, but they are helping other adoptive families every step of the way.  I just love that and I am sure you will love reading their story.  Here is their journey shared by, Desiree: Our adoption journey started

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-73241901156414772312011-11-23T07:33:00.001-06:002011-11-23T07:41:27.926-06:00

For you make me glad by your deeds, O LORD; I sing for joy at the works of your hands. Psalm 92:4 ©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-36174695596114270202011-11-21T06:25:00.000-06:002011-11-21T06:25:00.487-06:00

This week I am so happy to share with you, The Gordon Family.  I never grow tired of reading these stories.  Here is the story of their journey, shared by Meaghan: Wes has wanted to adopt since he was young, but I never gave it much thought since we were blessed to have our two children, Mary Reeves and Murphy, so easily.  We've sponsored precious Adonay, a six-year-old boy in

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-28471558316691664232011-11-19T07:59:00.001-06:002011-11-19T11:34:14.781-06:00

Lately, I loved printing off a free owl calendar.  It is so cool how you get to choose the owl print you want for each month. Lately, my kids have been requesting to see the video of Mommy crying.  Hopefully, they are getting more out of the video than just laughing at me doing the ugly cry. Lately, I love the back of our Christmas cards as much as the front.  I took the kids to the

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-14262276327595589652011-11-17T08:01:00.001-06:002011-11-18T13:57:49.204-06:00

   In July 2009, my husband and I had three children; our youngest being only six months old.  We were living life, unaware of how drastically God was about to change all that we knew.  In an instant, our eyes were completely opened to the orphans of the world.  Not only did He open our eyes, but He placed an urgent calling on our hearts to adopt.  After late night conversations and a lot

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-81424892957193667862011-11-16T05:19:00.000-06:002011-11-16T05:19:00.063-06:00

For the last few months I had been suffering from daily headaches.  So, I began to do medical research to see what could be the cause.  Now when I say medical research, I mean that I became a Google doctor.  You know, typing all your symptoms into the computer so that you can come up with a diagnosis.  I don’t really recommend that.  I always end up believing it is something terrible where I

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-731957068734458622011-11-14T05:57:00.000-06:002011-11-14T05:57:00.477-06:00

I am so thrilled to share that our friends, Lauren and John (aka Mareto's Mommy and Daddy), are adopting again! We are SO HAPPY for them.  We cannot wait to see all the beauty that God has planned for the journey to their next child.  Here is their story, shared by Lauren: In February 2011 we brought our son Mareto home from Ethiopia. This video is a perfect glimpse of that journey…

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-14031615666681519852011-11-08T05:29:00.000-06:002011-11-08T08:14:18.032-06:00

I am once again asking for adoption fundraising families that are interested in being spotlighted to email me.  One family is shared each Monday.  I will add 10 families to my calendar in the order in which I receive completed answers and pictures to the needed questions below.   If you are new to this blog and would like to see the families spotlighted in the past or how the spotlight

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-81393306536052077032011-11-07T05:53:00.000-06:002011-11-07T05:53:00.391-06:00

(Kelley and her family before leaving on the Ordinary Hero trip) I love sharing adoptive families and their journeys, but I get even more excited when I actually know the family that I get to share.  I am so pleased to introduce you to Jeff and Kelley and their boys.  I met Kelley and her sister Ashley, this summer when we all traveled to Ethiopia with Ordinary Hero.  We shared many

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-43782264221555041782011-11-06T09:33:00.000-06:002011-11-06T09:33:00.304-06:00

Orphan Sunday 2011 from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo. ©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-35810031359557105522011-11-04T09:49:00.000-05:002011-11-04T10:26:48.815-05:00

There is still time to prepare your Operation Christmas Child boxes.  We made it a fall break project at our house this year.  I loved seeing how much effort the older kids put into their boxes and choosing just the right items.  There was also a very important teaching moment in creating our boxes.  When we got home from shopping for the items, the little ones thought that the items

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-39017142581926175362011-11-02T08:52:00.001-05:002011-11-05T08:53:38.312-05:00

When Cade found out that the Arkansas vs. Vanderbilt football game was going to be the day after his birthday, he knew right away that he wanted to have a tailgating birthday party.  For his gift, he requested that he and Daddy could attend the game together.  That seemed easy peasy to me because we already had most of the items for the party.  The hard part was that the game was set to

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-60268940560805924682011-10-31T05:30:00.000-05:002011-10-31T05:30:02.212-05:00

 This week I am happy to share with you, The Fristoe Family.  Dewey and Suzanne are adopting from China.  They already know their sweet daughter's face and I am sure they are very much looking forward to having her placed in their arms.  Here is their story, shared by Suzanne: Dewey and Suzanne met in Lexington, MO in 1995 while taking care of a terminally ill patient and his

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-15886412774362763362011-10-28T05:41:00.000-05:002011-10-28T06:42:46.213-05:00

Today, our sweet little man turns 7 years old.  Cade is so many things to our family: comedian dinner time prayer leader blood pressure raiser most requested reader to the little ones 'Cars' expert wisdom seeker Lego builder encourager hug'er "Actual Factual" 6 year recipient of 'the messiest room award' ball player Bible reader sibling annoyer goofball math and science lover deeply loving

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-22367099733376441392011-10-26T13:25:00.002-05:002011-10-26T16:39:44.046-05:00

I love taking the kids to their 18 month appointment because every time our pediatrician says, "Now, from 18-24 months you are going to see an explosion of their vocabulary."  He is always right and it is always so much fun to witness.  Each day Elijah's vocabulary grows bigger and bigger.  Here are a few of his latest quotes: "Babies r gross" (Looking in the mirror)  "I is cute" "

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-91932006789982860222011-10-25T10:20:00.000-05:002011-10-25T11:11:28.549-05:00

Grammy and Grampy came for a visit and we enjoyed a weekend full of fall fun.  One of our favorite events was the annual carving of the pumpkins.  Each child drew a face on the pumpkin that they carefully chose at the pumpkin patch and we carved them.  They all turned out so cute!  Then Daddy carved the family pumpkin using the Pumpkin Prayer.  (It has become a yearly tradition

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-15107362113592220452011-10-24T05:31:00.000-05:002011-10-24T12:58:48.237-05:00

  I am so honored to share with you: Lee, Rory, Elisha, Eva, Maisey, and Willoughby - The Cookman Family.  Rory and I have become fast friends and I know that God has crossed our paths for many reasons.  She has been such an encouragement to me and I have loved following every step of their journey.  They are adopting from Ethiopia and I know you are going to enjoy getting to know their

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-22058555914856164582011-10-23T05:50:00.000-05:002011-10-23T07:24:58.014-05:00

Would you think I was crazy if I told you I started thinking about Christmas cards in September?  Okay, don’t answer that.  I know it sounds silly, but I did.  I love photo Christmas cards.  I love receiving them and I love sending them.  To me they are like little time capsule gifts.  We keep all of ours with our Christmas décor and every year I enjoy looking back over the years at how the

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-23981661184090386902011-10-20T05:30:00.000-05:002011-10-20T05:30:02.817-05:00

The calm before the storm... (this photo was taken at the pumpkin patch before the hand, foot and mouth outbreak of 2011 hit our home) Lately, I learned that hand, foot and mouth disease is extremely contagious.  My poor babies all got it in some form.  That leads me to my next point... (photo source) Lately, I have decided I need to talk to home builders.  I believe all

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-28337336349571349812011-10-17T05:05:00.000-05:002011-10-17T05:05:00.170-05:00

This week I am so happy to share with you, Brooke and Michael.  Brooke is such a sweet and supportive blogging friend.  She is always leaving messages of encouragement and I am so thankful for her.  I am happy to watch their journey unfold as they adopt from Taiwan.  Here is their story, shared by Brooke: Michael and I first started dating the summer between our senior year and

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-731739883511458102011-10-12T16:08:00.000-05:002011-10-12T16:08:00.057-05:00

(photo source) Me:  Well, the doctor says he has it... Hubby:  Has what? Me:  Foot-In-Mouth Disease Hubby:  What is that??? Me:  Oh wait!  I am the one that often has Foot-In-Mouth Disease. {insert laughter} Elijah has Hand-Foot and Mouth Disease. ©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-88951204628667892012011-10-10T05:21:00.000-05:002011-10-10T09:00:59.372-05:00

This week I am happy to introduce you to Adam and Jenn.  They are adopting from Russia.  They seem like such a great couple.  Here is their journey, shared by Jenn: We are best friends who enjoy making the most out of life and taking on new challenges.  A few months ago we ran our first marathon and both qualified for the Boston Marathon.  We love to watch baseball games, cookout

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-24959041006405870072011-10-05T13:50:00.000-05:002011-10-05T14:20:19.435-05:00

Saturday we tailgated with The 1:27 Call before the local university football game.    All day Elijah had been asking, "See Silas and football??" He loves his buddy, Silas.  Taylor and Cade enjoyed playing the beanbag toss game.  E had to be carried off by Daddy many times because he was trying to join other tailgating parties. What was Ryann doing the entire time?  

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-90080187061279249652011-10-03T05:52:00.000-05:002011-10-03T05:52:00.619-05:00

This week I am honored to share with you Adam, Lindsey and family.  They are adopting from Ethiopia.  Because adoption families often have to send me their stories weeks before I am able to spotlight the family, I am excited to add the update that Adam and Lindsey just sent in their dossier.  Here is their journey thus far, shared by Lindsey: We have two biological daughters, Makayla

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-91262655850138557512011-09-28T05:00:00.000-05:002011-09-28T05:00:11.513-05:00

I love clouds.   I love sunrises and sunsets.   I love looking at the skies.   It is a constantly changing canvas created by the greatest artist of all time.  I recite this verse often while looking at the skies.  I know that if His hands can create such constant beauty above me, He can definitely make beauty out of the mess of me. Take a moment to look up today. Psalm 19:1 (NIV)

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-79152764654006428132011-09-27T09:42:00.000-05:002011-09-27T10:32:47.464-05:00

Last year I attended the first, Created for Care Retreat.  It was planned by my amazing friend, Andrea.  She recognized that adoptive mommas needed an event where they could relax and fellowship with other mommas.   Apparently, I was not the only one craving such an retreat because not long after Andrea shared about it, it was booked solid in 48 hours.  Women traveled from all over the

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-13018445286991653622011-09-26T05:17:00.000-05:002011-09-26T05:17:00.152-05:00

This week I am so pleased to introduce you to Tommy, Monica and Micah, The Johnson Family.  They are adopting from the Democratic Republic of Congo.  I have loved getting to know Monica through emails and I am so happy to share their story.  Here is how their journey began, written by Monica: Our adoption story begins with my husband, actually.  He has always had the strong desire to

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-43780318074509434292011-09-24T11:42:00.000-05:002011-09-25T20:47:43.783-05:00

Friday night we experienced one of those "what were we thinking" moments in parenting.  We had purchased a Groupon early in the summer for our family of six to play mini-golf for the price of $12.  A great price for an evening of fun.  Except, it seemed to slip our minds that we have four children under the age of nine.  Playing mini golf would be no easy task with a one year old and a two year

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-14667066973018007282011-09-22T12:26:00.000-05:002011-09-23T10:38:40.638-05:00

Those of you who followed my posts from the mission trip I went on this summer know that the highlight of my trip was meeting our sponsored son, Tesfaye.  If you did not get to read the story, please click here to read His Name Means Hope {part one} and here to read His Name Means Hope {part two}.   Well, I just heard from Erin with Project 61.  She reported: I wanted to let you know

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-88412385674966122372011-09-21T06:54:00.001-05:002011-09-21T08:03:00.401-05:00

Before leaving Chicago, we were able to stop by Carolyn and Clyde's home.  We traveled with Clyde and Carolyn to Ethiopia and became fast friends.  Their son, Gibson, is only a few months older than Elijah.   You know they are good friends when you tell them that you have to be on the road in the morning and they invite you to come by their home at 8am for breakfast.  Also, it was not

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-66188148155697092612011-09-20T05:47:00.000-05:002011-09-20T12:20:14.964-05:00

Last week we left our home, for a road trip to Chicago.   On Friday, we were blessed to be a part of a very special day...a wedding. The stunning bride is my husband's sister, Kristin  and the handsome groom is now our brother-in-law, Paul. It was a beautiful weekend and a beautiful ceremony. {Be prepared for picture overload...} Cade was the coin bearer  Taylor read scripture

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-22097722772477666072011-09-19T05:45:00.000-05:002011-09-23T10:30:37.671-05:00

I am so excited to introduce you to this week's family...Reggie, Kim and the girls.  Kim and I were on the Ordinary Hero Ethiopia mission trip together this summer.  I was able to witness the bond she had with the two girls that they are now adopting.  It is amazing to think about and I can't wait for you to read their story.  Here is what Kim shared: Some pretty AMAZING things have

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-14901588295855636272011-09-14T05:43:00.000-05:002011-09-14T05:43:00.559-05:00

Recently, I was looking at the silhouettes in our kitchen and I remembered sharing this post of how to make them.  It was fun to re-read the post and think about all of the emotions I was going through at that time.  When I originally posted it, we had not received our referral for Elijah.  It is so hard to think about not knowing his face or his profile because now it seems as if he has

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-72831626731261890482011-09-13T05:22:00.000-05:002011-09-13T06:24:14.715-05:00

This month's adoption fellowship group was held last Saturday at a local park.  We always love seeing everyone.  The more active our two youngest become, the less we are able to visit with everyone. Thankfully, many are in the same boat as us with little ones.  So, they don't seem to mind if we have to dart off mid conversation to grab a child dangling from the monkey bars. I did not

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-32944842378995453362011-09-12T06:20:00.000-05:002011-09-12T06:45:42.339-05:00

I am pleased to introduce you to Zach and Michelle Miller.  They are adopting from Uganda.  I loved reading their story that Michelle shared: Adoption is something God laid on my heart from the age of 2. Really. And my husband was quickly on board about 2 weeks after we started dating. As any good adoption story goes, it has not gone as planned. We originally thought we would be waiting

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-9808044904440832082011-09-09T08:10:00.000-05:002011-09-09T14:28:07.651-05:00

This is written about my daughter Taylor's best friend, Anna Belle.  It was written by her father on the day of her birth...September 11th 2001.  It was originally written for his church bulletin where he serves as a pastor.  However, it was later published in Chicken Soup for the Soul of America, a book reflecting on September 11th.  We love Anna Belle and her beautiful family and I think

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-17127484727554062212011-09-07T05:27:00.000-05:002011-09-07T08:07:25.490-05:00

I love fall!  There is no other season like it in my book.  Cool weather, football, taco soup, and long sleeves are just a few of my favorite things.  For the last few weeks I have been pretending it was fall.  I have been sporting jeans and three quarter length sleeves.  Who cares if it is 104 degrees outside, right? Labor Day marked the official end of summer for me.  My son tried to

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-57750711858462230812011-09-05T03:21:00.000-05:002011-09-05T03:21:00.467-05:00

This week I am honored to introduce you to The Koenig Family.  Josh and Kristen along with their daughters, are adopting from the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Kristen shares their family's story of how they were led to adopt: We are a family of 4 who is answering God's call for us to care for orphans. For our family that means that we are going to bring an orphan from the DRC into our

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-70624323590809116442011-09-01T09:15:00.000-05:002011-09-01T11:19:49.166-05:00

(photo source) My absolute favorite class that I took in college was Comparative Christianity.  We would meet in class once a week and listen to the professor lecture on the differences in Christian churches.  Then on Sunday, we were required to go to a church.  The second Sunday, we would go to a different denomination of a Christian church.  Then a paper was to be turned in the

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-36379754016604958722011-08-31T09:01:00.001-05:002011-08-31T09:01:00.251-05:00

©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-62952633963174658832011-08-31T09:00:00.002-05:002011-08-31T09:00:05.618-05:00

The winner of the photography e-course from Love Makes a Family is:Jana said...SO excited to follow their blog!! I have a huge heart for adoption and homeschooling!AUGUST 29, 2011 9:24 AMCongratulations Jana!  Please email me so that I can pass your information along to Angela.  Thanks!©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-7888107840748763602011-08-29T05:04:00.044-05:002011-09-01T08:23:12.323-05:00

I am so excited to once again be sharing these amazing families with you in a weekly spotlight.  I love reading each family's story and how God had led them to adoption.  This week I am honored to share with you, The Braniff Family.  Christopher and Angela are adopting from the Democratic Republic of Congo.  They have a beautiful story that I cannot wait for you to read, so without

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-88923926469636136262011-08-25T10:16:00.003-05:002011-08-25T10:21:17.050-05:00

Do Everything by Steven Curtis ChapmanThis song had me at: picking up toys on the living room floor for the fifteenth time today... Also, have you pre-ordered Katie's book?  If you pre-order it from 147 Million Orphans, half of the profits go to Amazima.  Last spring, I was seated next Katie's mother at the Ordinary Hero dinner.  She was telling us about Katie's book and how she had already read

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-33983179911678759722011-08-24T05:56:00.014-05:002011-08-24T05:56:00.852-05:00

©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-80038922794642160582011-08-22T05:08:00.021-05:002011-11-07T13:27:36.085-06:00

{Updated- All spots have been filled at this time.  Thank you!} {Above:  All of the adoptive fundraising families shared within the last year} After bringing Elijah home last year, my husband and I desired to help other fundraising families in as many ways as we possibly could.  One way we decided to help was by sharing these beautiful families and their fundraiser in a spotlight

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-44250832246270031832011-08-21T13:15:00.000-05:002011-08-21T13:15:16.780-05:00

Kelly just emailed me that another $100 was donated to Little E's Ordinary Hero medical fund.  That brings the new total to $850.  Thank you so much to all who have donated!!! ©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-2611776379504160372011-08-20T11:20:00.001-05:002011-08-20T11:20:46.834-05:00

Many thanks to everyone who donated to Little E's medical fund.  I am happy to report that $750 was donated. That amount should cover his scans and MRI appointments.  Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!   The winner of the Ordinary Hero gift card chosen by Random.org is:Alison said... Just donated and I will post about it tomorrow! Thanks for keeping us updated, Amy!!!AUGUST 17, 2011 4:55

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-63433680234043112652011-08-18T12:19:00.001-05:002011-08-18T12:22:46.543-05:00

(Photo Source)Lately, I have learned how to peel a tomato.  How did I learn you ask?  I had to watch a you tube video.  According to the video statistics, 15,000 other people needed to watch a video too.  So, that made me feel better.  If you don't know how to peel a tomato, watch this.   I cut myself during the process, sprayed myself with tomato juice and may have muttered things such as '

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-77702112576068495442011-08-16T09:31:00.001-05:002011-08-18T08:09:05.282-05:00

LeAnne has reported that Little E had a great check-up yesterday.  They took his stitches out.  The swelling has gone down and the stint is acting as it should.  They are hoping to have the CT scan done today.   Will you PLEASE consider donating to his medical care fund?  All the donations made to Ordinary Hero with the memo line stating "Baby E" will be placed in his medical care account.  

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-3945983915540609692011-08-15T08:25:00.001-05:002011-08-25T18:12:14.227-05:00

So many of you joined in prayer as Little E had surgery just a few days ago.  I am happy to report that Little E is continuing to do well and is recovering from his surgery.  His swelling is going down and he will have a check-up today.  Soon he will have a CT scan and MRI done to see how well he is doing after surgery.   In the orphanage that we visited that day, there lay a nameless little baby

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-85482907757502051672011-08-13T09:07:00.002-05:002011-08-13T09:09:27.939-05:00

Our good friends, Troy and Amber, have started an amazing site.  I am so happy to share with you their site:  Olive Tree Promise.  It has been in the works for many months and I have enjoyed learning of its progress at each step.  I know it will be a wonderful opportunity for both vendors, shoppers and adoption families to help the orphan.  Here is what Troy shared about Olive Tree Promise: Olive

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-26921942682657255812011-08-11T09:16:00.000-05:002011-08-11T09:16:59.251-05:00

If you have followed my blog for awhile, you may remember how I shared the beautiful story of Lauren and John.  Lauren was one of my first blog friends and I know that God made that connection for many reasons.  As our friendship grew, my family started our journey to Elijah.  During that time, I felt a specific urging to pray for Lauren and John and their adoption...which they were not even

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-33998640864147565582011-08-08T09:21:00.002-05:002011-08-08T11:52:59.209-05:00

My big kids started back to school today.  I cannot believe we have a 4th grader and a 1st grader in our house.  I found these adorable free printables at I {heart} Nap Time and I think they turned out so cute for pictures.  We also found out what makes a 4th grader and a 1st grader run from embarrassment...when their little sister insists on wearing her cape to walk them into school.  How

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-82486691586789498292011-08-06T08:42:00.001-05:002011-08-06T08:43:13.145-05:00

LeAnne just texted me.  Here is what it said, "Praise God!  E is doing well.  Surgery is complete."  Please keep him in your prayers during his time of healing.  Thank you!©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-56697638839294661682011-08-05T12:10:00.001-05:002011-08-05T14:23:36.828-05:00

Just wanted to let you all know that Little E's surgery has been postponed until tonight our time.  Additional tests were needed before he could have the surgery.  Now all should be set for tonight.  Please continue to pray.  Thank you!©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-25548153225239474712011-08-04T05:00:00.010-05:002011-08-04T05:00:10.307-05:00

While we were in Ethiopia I was able to witness an amazing moment.  We were at an orphanage.  I walked into the baby room and my friend, LeAnne was holding a baby.  She said, "Amy, you need to take this baby."  I am a baby holding kind of girl, so I had no problems taking the baby from her.  After handing me the baby, she walked two steps over and picked up another little baby.  She caressed him

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-42633151347509233122011-08-01T07:14:00.001-05:002011-08-01T07:21:30.647-05:00

{I created a video slideshow using many of the photos taken during our trip.}{I love this group!}©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-47654781803660861982011-07-28T11:40:00.002-05:002011-08-01T14:41:06.041-05:00

On our last day in Ethiopia, we visited Korah for the last time.  I was unable to meet our sponsored daughter on our first visit to Korah, so I was hopeful that I would be able to find her on our last day.  We arrived at the church and I began to scan the faces that quickly surrounded us.  Then I pulled out my photo of her and began to ask if anyone knew Alem.  It amazes me that one hundred

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-64043822025861427822011-07-26T09:47:00.001-05:002011-07-26T09:50:39.959-05:00

While we were in Ethiopia, my favorite drive was the day we visited HOPEthiopia.  It was a long drive on the highway and then over an hour drive on the dirt roads, but oh the views.  I loved it!  I thought you might enjoy seeing some of the beautiful sights from that drive.   ©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-80413695551750824962011-07-25T05:39:00.005-05:002011-07-25T07:26:03.389-05:00

One year ago we were in Ethiopia and God placed an adorable baby boy in our arms.  The last year has been filled with love, joy and all the fun times that come with having four kiddos.  In some ways we cannot believe it has been a year and yet in other ways, it seems like Elijah has always been in our family.  I have said it before and I will say it again...he just fits.  God's plan and timing is

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-35338590692309904382011-07-23T08:34:00.007-05:002011-09-23T10:49:17.628-05:00

If you missed part one of the story, click here to read it first. Sumer had walked us down a trail and through a gate to the home of a man and his wife.  Behind us our driver was bringing a herd of sheep to deliver to this family.  I was taking pictures of the man and his expressions of joy from receiving the sheep.  I was hugging his wife when they said that Tesfaye was here.  His

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-66188121443845405622011-07-22T13:06:00.004-05:002011-09-23T10:38:33.828-05:00

(I hope that I can do this story justice with my words.  Every time I have tried to tell this story, I end up in tears.  It is definitely a long story, but I feel it is very much worth telling.  I will break it into two parts so that it won't be so long.)   We began sponsoring Tesfaye last summer through Project 61.  We sponsor children through various organizations, but this was

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-29782450477539094422011-07-20T10:42:00.005-05:002011-07-22T13:08:09.900-05:00

Growing up my brother and I had the classic sibling relationship.  We fought, I called him names and he called me names, but we loved each other deeply.  I could complain about him all I wanted, but if anyone else said one bad thing about him, you better believe you were going to have trouble from me. The same went for him with me.  No one else had my back like my brother and it is still that way

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-73873163019097720322011-07-19T12:03:00.002-05:002011-07-22T13:07:57.215-05:00

I had planned on doing a post about each day we spent in Ethiopia, but for some reason I cannot get my first couple of days of pictures to load.  So, instead I am just going to do features of different people we met or situations that God placed upon us.   Today, I am going to start with one of my favorite stories.  We were able to visit Korah twice. (To those that are unfamiliar, Korah, is a

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-33358247578486327422011-07-18T09:30:00.003-05:002011-07-22T13:07:42.370-05:00

We made it home safely!  My husband survived 10 days with four kids and my internal sleep clock is starting to get back to home time.  It was the most amazing trip of my life!  You may have to show me a lot of grace if my next one thousand posts are about this trip.  I have so much to share and so many to advocate for.  I took thousands of pictures, so be prepared for picture overload.  I plan to

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-58670335456316397622011-07-13T11:22:00.001-05:002011-07-22T13:07:28.045-05:00

Hello all!  Our internet is not working at the guest home and we all came to a different hotel to use the internet.  I only have a few minutes, but I just wanted to jump on here and update all.  This has been the MOST AMAZING experience.  God has filled our days with so many wonderful experiences and I have connected with so many beautiful people.  I really cannot wait to share all of my photos

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-26125413946643183372011-07-08T11:05:00.001-05:002011-07-22T13:07:12.083-05:00

We made it safely to Ethiopia at 8am Ethiopian time.  Thank you Jesus!  Unfortunately, we had a very long stay at the airport where they finally allowed us to leave around 1pm.  It is a long story that I will have to tell you when we get back.  Crazy stuff!  Please keep praying for our team. We are now at the guest house.  We have been playing soccer in the streets with the kids outside our

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-75596313047178535172011-07-06T13:20:00.001-05:002011-07-22T13:06:58.730-05:00

We have a cd with Ethiopian children's songs on it.  Any time Ryann and Elijah want to dance, they ask for "Opa Opa music".  (That would be Ethiopia music for those that don't speak 2 year old and 1 year old:) We have told them for the last week that Mommy is going to Ethiopia.  They then say, "Opa Opa" and run over to the cd player.  I think they think I am going to some kind of dance

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-31811433143860468332011-07-05T09:45:00.000-05:002011-07-05T09:45:51.970-05:00

Yay! It worked! Of course the real challenge will be finding wi-fi there. ©2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-65645410493967366492011-07-05T09:42:00.000-05:002011-07-05T09:42:25.059-05:00

Testing to see if I can post updates from my phone for my trip. 2011 Filled With Praise

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-13868096390210042692011-07-02T08:54:00.000-05:002011-07-02T08:54:07.133-05:00

I leave for Ethiopia in just a few days!  I am a bundle of excitement and nerves.  I am trying to get everything ready for everyone before I leave so that my sweet husband has it as easy as possible with the four kiddos.  While I am busy, I thought I would share some amazing gotcha day videos that have just been released.  I loved watching these videos and I am sure you will too. ©2011 Filled

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-19484535704247238672011-06-27T08:37:00.000-05:002011-06-27T08:37:26.454-05:00

This month our adoption fellowship family event was a movie under the stars.  It was hosted by The Galbreath Family.  They had the perfect setup for such a fun event.  Here are just a few of the pictures I took..."Hey guys!  Can I play??"  Ryann and her girlfriend, Lucy LaneSadie and Elijah were both at Hannah's Hope in Ethiopia at the same time and in the same room.  Elijah has been crazy about

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-40001342448076482192011-06-24T05:44:00.002-05:002011-06-24T07:51:56.510-05:00

I do not have the desire to be a professional photographer.  I just want to take good enough pictures of my children so that I can blackmail them as teenagers.  Ha! I am kidding about the blackmailing business, but I am not kidding about wanting to take good pictures of my children.  I truly want to capture all of the moments that I can because I already know how quickly these moments pass.  I

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-77442917717476267722011-06-22T12:55:00.004-05:002011-08-23T10:58:56.302-05:00

Psalm 40:2 (NIV)He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. I leave for Ethiopia in 14 days.  My bags are filled to capacity weight with donations for the children of Ethiopia.  I am really looking forward to seeing all the beautiful faces and the little feet that God chooses to place these boots upon.   ©2011 Filled

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-78849527907438026302011-06-15T05:18:00.021-05:002011-06-22T09:37:33.921-05:00

Hebrews 12: 1-3 (NIV)Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-73844441751715178012011-06-13T05:09:00.014-05:002011-06-13T05:09:00.867-05:00

I am so happy to introduce you to:  The Brown Family.  Tim, Audrey and their beautiful girls are adopting from Uganda.  This is what Audrey shared about their journey:We are adopting twin toddlers from Uganda. We had been pursuing a domestic adoption when God laid Uganda on our hearts. We changed our homestudy to suit Uganda and heard about the twins just a couple of weeks later. We are hoping

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-86567805101439605172011-06-12T17:36:00.003-05:002011-06-12T21:02:04.345-05:00

Every year we look forward to our Parks and Recreation's Small Fry Tri (A "triathlon" for little ones ages 2-6).  It is actually a little bit of a run, a little bike ride and then a refreshing run through the sprinklers.  The triathlon has always been a lot of fun for Taylor and Cade and since Ryann is two, this was her first year to participate. She had been talking about it all week.  We were

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-46557669390812421382011-06-10T11:03:00.003-05:002011-06-10T16:01:55.608-05:00

Last Friday was our final home visit for Elijah.  We were required to have three visits from our social worker throughout his first year home.  The last visit had to be completed one month prior to Elijah’s gotcha day anniversary.  That is to ensure that the report will be in Ethiopia one year from the date that he was placed in our arms. As we were sitting with our social worker, we were all

4 Blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01792912615995204430noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7858810919033533894.post-34422047611837058752011-06-08T11:32:00.000-05:002011-06-08T11:32:03.774-05:00

Last week when I asked for your summer fun ideas, you guys came through with some fabulous ideas both in the comments and in your emails.  Thank you!  I look forward to trying many of them this summer.   The fun we have been having around here is not exactly what I had in mind for our summer kickoff.  Elijah has an ear infection and Taylor, Cade, Ryann and I all have strep throat.  There has been

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