Lead us to Levi

Sunday Serenade

2012-02-12T18:48:00.000-08:00

As we fixed breakfast today ... we got a Sunday Serenade. Enjoy - we sure did!

One thing I'll miss about Ethiopia - is the day when my little Ethiopian isn't singing and talking to me in Amharic. I could listen to him all day! Just melts me!

*make sure to scroll to the bottom and pause that music I have*

No place like HOME!

2012-02-12T12:37:00.000-08:00

We finally arrived home on Friday night - 30 hours of traveling, 3 planes, 2 layovers later. The trip all in all went WONDERFUL! Zebene did awesome on the flights, giggling in the airports and hamming it up as he watched the "airoplanes" out the window in Atlants. He slept some on each and even though at times got a little restless, he really was a traveling trooper - an answer to prayers. Even security posts went well. Like he'd been doing it all along. Such a change from the Embassy visit just a few days prior.

The hardest part of the whole trip was awaking him and getting him off the plane from the last flight where is had sacked out and was like a coma baby. Of course, you would know it to be the case since we were anxiously trying to get down those airport stairs and into the arms of our children and amazing friends that chaos would abound then.
But no, the Lord wanted to show us first what we know is true these days - he has to come first - sacrifice. He was a mess. Full on tantrum and crying. So confused and so exhausted, the whole scene broke my heart! We sat and held and played in the waterfall for about 25 or so minutes - leaving all those waiting below to wonder - or so we thought. Little did we know, the Captain and flight attendants had sweetly shared with our waiting crew that our precious joy was not so full of joy. They shared with them that he was having a hard time and to be patient. And well ... they were! As we came down the stairs you could have heard a pin drop. All those waiting kids and friends as quiet as a mouse as not to scare our little guy. Thank you so so much for understanding and without knowing it - submitting right in line with what was best for our boy - a little distance.

I was so overwhelmed to see so many friends show up to welcome and embrace our newest addition. Of course, after 30 hours I was in a hazy fog myself - but I remember each of your faces, your embraces, your words of encouragement and smiles. You will NEVER know or understand what it means and feels like to know we were and are surrounded by such an amazingly supportive community. Hey - even my pastor and his precious wife arrived. I'm thinking this may be Scott's first - but definitely NOT last welcome airport home party!!

Home ... there is no place like HOME!

So here are a few of the amazing photos that my friend Jennifer Verme took. She is an incredible photographer and I knew she was there snapping away. Amazing that she can make priceless photos even with this tired, greasy ol' lady, her matching beaux and one overwhelmed little boy.
Thank you is never enough Jen, for sharing your talent with us through this blessing! If you love what you see ... check out her work at "Bend the Light". Once we are settled, we'll be looking her back up for our first family shoot - including showers. HAHA.

These are in no particular order - that would take time and energy - both of which I have none right now. Enjoy them anyways.

A Treasured Day

2012-02-08T10:57:00.000-08:00

As a Mom to a beautiful almond eyed Chinese princess, I have always dreamt of what I would say if I ever had the chance to meet Maliah. I pray often that the Lord is telling her how beautiful and lovely she is ... And how courageous she is for choosing life. I dream of what she may look like and find myself staring into Maliah's eyes or her pouty heart shaped lips and wonder if they are traits of her Mom or perhaps, she looks like her Dad. I will probably never know and yet... I still dream.

But today, the Lord gave me those moments I have dreamt of for her - with Zebene's birth mom. This day was a treasure I will always hold dear. Every moment is etched into my mind forever.I have embraced and held the woman who gave my son life. I sat next to her and told her that I honored her and that she was and is courageous. I listened as she expressed her love for her son and felt a little of the pain and great sacrifice she was making for him. I gained a greater understanding of her desires for him ... Even through a small morsel of words to describe it. I saw the way she looked at him - adoringly- I saw her smile, kiss and embrace him. I have treasures to share with him as he grows of a few memories of his years with her. I now know that his smile - is hers. I now know that his gentle voice - she shares. I now know that he was a quiet and shy baby ... And that she dreams he will one day return. I now know that she told him over and over " do not forget me" and he told her " I will not forget you" before and as she made the hardest decision of her life - to release him to the care of an orphanage. I now know that she likes his room, knows who his brother and sisters are, knows who is loving her son ... And was " happy he had a good family" and has photos of them all ... And her son ... to keep close.

I left with his birth Mother a long letter... Translated into Amharic for her. All the things I dreamed of sharing with Maliah's birth mother, I shared with Zebene's Mother today in both the physical sharing and through a letter for her to always keep. I didn't share for just today ... But every day she reads them ... "You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Jesus adores you and loves you. We love you for giving us the honor of being your hands and heart to a son you and I both love ... I will never replace you ... But am only honored and humbled to share Jesus's love and yours with our together son. You hold great esteem in our home and our hearts." Much more was in the pages of the letter ... But those things ... And the truth of the beauty she holds in Christ's eyes were the most important things I hope she receives. Thank you Jesus for the privilege to share that truth with her today. To say you did more than I could ever ask or imagine is an understatement.

The day was emotional. I cried trying to share - but lost it as she walked away. Waving goodbye, holding our son on my hips was far too much for me to process - still my heart tries to absorb it's reality. Simply the thought brings me to tears. I don't believe I know how to love so selfless and courageous as she has.

Half way around the world, there will always be a piece of our family and our hearts ... Thank you Mimi for allowing us this day! It was and always be our Treasured Day!

Play Day - day 3

2012-02-08T07:40:00.000-08:00

Sorry this is posted a little late - by a day. I was too pooped last night to get it on here. So of course, now I am a day behind. Come back in a bit for Day 4 - Birth Mother meeting.

Play Day!Today was a relaxing play day spent in Ethiopia's lap of luxury - the Sheraton Hotel. This is by far the nicest place in Addis Ababa, courting dignitaries and those whose who like Angelina Jolie and more. But today, it held the finest of fine ... Zebene Martine and paparazzi.

It is beautiful with a gorgeous pool and a very nice park with grass and beautiful flowers. A treat for us all ... And a world of discovery for a little boy who has never experienced those things. From the sand, to the grass, to the big plastic climbing animals ... It was all new and full of inhibitions to go with. By play time end... He was jumping off small walls and leaving much room between us and him - a new milestone. We also enjoyed a long nap. Well, the people with testosterone did.

We then went on two long walks on the streets outside our guest house. Our boy who has been timid of new, grabbed each of our hands and seem to walk in great confidence between us. He would watch carefully any time a van full of people drove up, captured the eyes of the many whom passed and together, we got lots of looks .... Smiles to go with... But we definitely stuck out.

Those walks always come with an arrest of sights and sounds! As the begging Mom with the baby (Who also with her hand out from the knapsack on her back) said, "sister, farenge" (foreign white person) it was even more clear just how much we stood out. Of course this phrase was followed by the tap on the mouth, then the tummy with another " sister, farenge" (a plea for money for food). Heartbreaking always ... But the one who took the cake for me today was the little girl- about 2.5 or 3 at max who approached doing the same while Mom sat watching with a newborn baby tied up on her breast. Ethiopia ... A place that will break your heart and then steal it! Doug might be short a few burr.

The second walk of our day got us to Kaldi's where Zebene experienced his first bowl of ice cream. While grilled cheese, quesadillas or eggs haven't gained his yet approval - ice cream is officially a universal love. We taught him "yummy" and indeed .. He said it was!

Things I learned today
1. We aren't quite potty trained ... We will have some homework.
2. When told "no", he shuts down or withdraws .. Sometimes will get honory. That too is universal.
3. He loves French fries and like his big sister-Catsup!
4. I get Mom of the year award ... Yes, I did feed my kid nothing but French fries for lunch. Nice! What's a girl to do when he won't eat the grilled cheese it came with. Besides, Karen Purvis said I needed to build in a lot of yes's and well....she gives a lot of gum so who is keeping track? Gum, French fries, whatever!
5.Two hours is too long for a nap ... 2 hours past bedtime and as I type, he is awake still next to me and I am sitting in a dark room as when I had thought he was asleep and began to leave ... Alligator tears erupted. Mental note - fear of being in the room alone.
6. He and Maliah should never share a bed... It could look like a war with how much they both toss and turn!
7. Zebene's birth mom has visited him each time she has come for court and embassy. I knew she was offered to do so ... But found out today that she had.
8. Not a fan of dried fruit
9. Showers are terrifying!
10. I am falling more and more in love with this sweet boy. We have declared that he is keeper!!!!

Oh one last thing I learned ... Without a poop sample, I will bet you money this kid has Guardi! Eeeeew! TMI?? The joys of IA adoption. Get ready all my friends to follow - I am thinking that too might be universal. Haha

My beautiful boy!

learning and getting good at jumping

There is a hint of the smile for you that we see lots

Sheraton

Ethiopia flag

Big Bite ... ice cream!

Yep ... it's universal ... we love it!

Yes, those are my beautiful eyes!

Embassy - Good Grief

2012-02-06T10:29:00.001-08:00

Day 2 - Embassy Good Grief!

No, I have no grief with the Embassy ... That went great - well, except the fact that going into the building and through security made our boy a little uneasy. I am thinking his initial response to change is a sad cry and withdrawing .. I mean literally moving away. The plane rides, Ethiopian airport, customs and more sound like joy to come. Thank you for prayers for his heart to be calm.

No, embassy interview is complete and we should have a Visa by Wednesday. That was the easy of the day.

We headed up Entoto mountain today for an afternoon excursion after lunch. Once you get up the mountain it overlooks all of Addis. Quite beautiful - and maybe more so if they had exhaust regulations for smog control here. Dear USA ... You have done some things so right ... Zebene fell asleep on the way up the mountain, in my arms, and that was some sweet cuddles. He also loves to look out the window in the van and so the way home was spent watching him stare out the window and listening to all his sweet Amharic words as he told me what he saw!

This afternoon and evening began the hard. We are beginning to see some trials and moments ahead that could be fun. Like I mentioned before, moving away when he doesn't want to do something is his immediate reaction to not liking or wanting to do something ... Anything. Yesterday bedtime jammies etc. was fun and he actually enjoyed it. Tonight - yeah, not so much. Lots of tears. And seriously - grief - probably good grief. He has to do this ... but again, it's hard. We saw some pure grief moments tonight where he just broke out into tears. Those are the moments when you stop what you are trying to accomplish and just hold, cuddle and assure. Those are the moments when it hits you again ... My son was an orphan two days ago ... An orphan that while not with a family, was comfortable in the only life he knew and while not done the way we might ... he was loved by the Nanny's and definitely the other kids. This joy is not yet his! Fortunately, he does allow for those embraces during those moments - at least so far.

Some other things we have noticed
1. Potty training is spotty. Looks like we will be doing Zebene laundry and praying the whole way home - with our extra clothes in tow.
2. If you don't like something ... You just throw it on the floor. I noticed some others his age doing the same today at the transitional home. Ya Know, spaghetti noodles, quesadillas that might taste weird, markers you are done with, wrappers etc. - the floor is the emptying spot.
3.grief is beginning and his reality began to sink in tonight. Bedtime was hard. Tears.
4. He loves books!
5. He loves music!
6. Not a fan of the second pair of shoes I brought ... Shoulder shrug and a point to the Chucks said so!7. He is very cautious in large crowds and new places. If you are coming to the airport ... Don't expect to see his gorgeous smile just yet.
8. He is bright!!! I am totally impressed with what the transitional home has taught him-at what he knows in English - names of some animals, can point to many letters and even write some! He can count in English - not sure how far ... But he sure gets stared ... 1,2,3,4,5,6,7
9. I love his little Amharic words. I sure wish I knew what he was saying with those big expressive words and eyes! I have a few words down, but not enough. I do think one day that I will miss those sweet words!
10. I am exhausted with just two days. I will need your ongoing prayers for endurance for sure! This journey has only begun - now is prayer time warriors! Zebene has been claimed in the flesh ... now, we have to claim his heart!

Forever is today!!

2012-02-05T10:54:00.000-08:00

February 5, 2012

Forever Family Day!

First, forgive me if this post doesn't end up showing my right spacing. I wrote it on notead first and it pastes in with funny spacing. I plea forgiveness!!!

What a day! Today was forever day! From this day forward we are forever Zebene's Mom and Dad and Zebene is forever claimed! Today was a great day! Happy Birthday my Cindy ... Today was also your day!

We started off our morning going to the International Evangelical church. This is our second time to visit this church and it is one of the trips blessings for sure! Imagine if you will, being in a church of many nations and many colors ... All worshipping one Jesus! It is undeniably beautiful! I am certain I get a glimpse of heaven with each visit.Upon entering church I saw a woman who looked very familiar walking down the isle to her seat. Looking closer I realized that it was the one and only Dr. Catherine Hamlin of the Fistula hospital. My heart lept. If you don't know who Dr Hamlin is then I highly suggest you go watch "A Walk to Beautiful" ... And if you do, well then you know I just had a beautiful conversation with a living angel and one of God's most amazing woman - ever! Yes, indeed I did stop her on the way out of church and she was the most humble woman to approach. This is my second time to meet her ... The first on a visit to Fistula, but there was something sweet about just having conversation with her in the midst of church. One more believer enjoying the Sabbath. Thank you Jesus for a little blessing.

From church and lunch we went to the transitional home to get Zebene. Let me say ... Without any hiding and romancing our story here ... This was hard!

Zebene was ok to come to us. Just as in our first trip, he approached with great caution and concern. That never really subsided before it was time to head out. That is when the real hard kicked in. Realizing what was going on, he quickly backed away and shrugged his little shoulder (a body signal we have quickly learned means I am scared, I don't like this, I don't want to). We let him move away and gave him some space. Our amazing guide Job began to talk to him but still Zebene was unsure - again moving further away. Job went and sat down by him, I sat a good distance away as to give him comfortable space. Job pulled out his iPhone and began to show Zebene videos of the kids and began talking with him. Who know what he said ... If I only spoke Amharic. Two precious kids who my kids fell in love with on trip one and are also going home (ages 8 and 12) began to talk to and comfort Z as well.

Things seemed to be looking up with their help.He began to walk towards the van. I reached down softly to pick him up and he began to cry and pull away. I put him down and knelt down near him. My heart was so full of heartache. Not for me ... This wasn't about my rejection ... But for my son who was rightfully so - terrified! Can you imagine a black family (Yes, we are still farenge's), who you don't really know, showing up and wanting to load you in a van and take you with them. No - yeah me either!

But our boy ... He is brave and courageous!

Within some time we all thought it was best for Doug to pick him up and get in the van. Knowing Zebene would cry but also knowing we were delaying the inevitable. We did. There was tears and crying ... My sweet boy was so so scared and this Momma - well, I was brave too as I held back my own tears for him.Once in the van he snuggled into Doug's arms and held on tight. Doug held on just as tight. I wish you could have seen that moment. It wasn't long before he seemed to melt tight into the fold of his lap and the tears stopped.

We ended up having an amazing afternoon. Zebene began to warm up, he played, sat in our laps, giggled, read books, and did a lot of playing on the wonderful iPhone. You heard me ... That darn thing saved the day. We knew he loved music and he also loves to explore. So explore he did, all the while listening to some great worship music. Thank you Apple for being our transition stone today. Not our normal protocol - letting our kids play on our phones - but well today, the Lord used that sucker as a vehicle for calmness, joy and lots of lap holding. Amen! Karen Purvis ... You would have been proud if all my yes's today!!

As I write our boy is now fast asleep. He wasn't so sure about bed either. He doesn't seem to be hip on change and unknowns. He approaches with great caution but then seems to warm up with a bit of time. He finally nestled down into bed and let us rub his back and lay with him until he drifted off. Victory!

Things he loves- matchbox cars, books, discovery of how things work (hello ... Another Maliah), his new chucks tennis shoes, getting lotion on (he giggled), m&m's, his water cup with fun spout I brought, water, water and oh water ... Yes, he drank a lot! So much that we officially have the process of "Shint" (going pee) down to an art and have learned what thevZebene gotta go dance looks like.

Tomorrow is our embassy interview bright and early so I need to get this wrapped up and besides, I probably lost you and your attention a long time ago.

Sweet Dreams from Ethiopia!

Thank you Apple for being our transitioning stone today.

Bedtime giggles ... see, he did start to warm up!

Perhaps I do need meds

2012-01-30T17:50:00.000-08:00

I have so much on my mind. My thoughts feel totally ADD. I am quite certain, had I been a kid born in the year 2000, I would for sure be on meds. Fortunately for me, that wasn't the case. Unfortunately for those around me ... that's not the case. This can mean I am easily distracted, I may or may not have 1/2 done projects done around the house, their might be 1/2 of a suitcase packed and a whole bunch of items that should be making their way into two others.

I don't know where to begin ... or to end.

My thoughts are chaos and jumping around my head like a bee pollinates a flower.

packing ... how will it all fit?
make a dentist apt. for Z
make dentist apts for other kids
mail off insurance info for Z
copies for parents
laundry
I'd sure like to paint that part of the door
man, I didn't get the carpets cleaned ... or the fence stained
as if Z will notice
cash ... umm, need to get that
invoices; need to follow up on those too.
ringworm
scabies
clothes
taxes
ugliness erupting in the adoption community
disappointment
tummy in knots
where will he want to sleep?
what will day one look like?
will he remember us?
should we just hang at Yebsabi?
weather
delays
Maliah
copies
bills
anxiousness
there went my workouts
attachment
fears
unknowns
baseball
class reunions
beach to bay
camera's/chargers
snacks
cocooning
orphan alliance
riverside
ONE
friends
formula
care packages
photo releases
toys
room
make room
not enough room
in country expenses
burr
fear
oh no
fear
Jesus

Day 5 - Last weekend!

2012-01-28T09:02:00.000-08:00

It is officially the last weekend where we are the Martine Fab Five. Soon ... we'll have to adopt a new name - Six Peas in a Pod, Martine Sensational Six, who knows ... any suggestions?

But today ... we are in preparation mode. The little's are cleaning bathroom's, wiping baseboards and helping put away laundry. Daddy is busy outside doing whatever it is Daddy's do outside. I just pray it includes pulling out the awful plants in the front that resemble weeds (even if they aren't).
I'm busy doing paperwork, more laundry, and fluttering around the house like a bumblebee. So many things I need or want to do ... but the reality is, they probably won't get done. Nesting!! Full on Nesting!

As a part of preparation, however, I am getting a DATE NIGHT tonight with my man? Whatinthe? What is that? My precious parents are taking the kids for the evening for some fun. Never mind the fact that they will soon have them an ENTIRE week ... bless their hearts. But tonight, I get to re-introduce myself to my hubby. It's been a while - he works so hard!

I also am making some final touches on Z's room. I ordered a canvas for his wall some time ago. We finally got it hung ... and it is precious! The perfect touch.

So day 5 would be summed up as organized chaos. Everyone doing a little bit of everything. Everyone in preparation for their next role ... big brother (again), big sister (again), big sister (for the first time ... um, yeah, that one could use some prayers), Mommy and Daddy to the 4th power. Yowzers!

My pictures are as random as our Preparations today

The precious canvas I found online. LOVE IT!

Add caption

Cuddle Friends awaiting someone to cuddle them

AH, he's got to be cute from his head to his toes

Some of the things not so glamorous about IA adoption

2012-01-27T06:46:00.000-08:00

How many times have I heard this comment "Your like Angelina Jolie". HA. I'm not sure if that is intended as a complement or not? I do know that her husband comes from an amazing family and he was raised in a believing home. I do know he has a sister who does incredible ministry in Africa "Dig Deep" digging water wells ... AND ... she was brilliant enough to partner with our beloved missions sending ministry "Visiting Orphans" for an awesome trip this past August. I do know that I love (no matter what her status) that she has adopted and that together, she and her husband care for the least of these .... SOOOOO ... I'm gonna take it as a compliment.

It does make me giggle a little. There is this "worldly" view that IA adoption is somehow exotic and perhaps why we do it to keep up with those "Hollywood" stars or something.

Ummm ... no.

I am not certain if the ones who have come to that conclusion actually know much about IA adoption - the process, the journey, the heartaches, the trials, the wait, the determination, the home studies, the finances ... and well ... the poop samples.

So Preparation Day 4 encompasses all those "ick" things that we don't want to talk about but should.

The reality is, our kids often come home sick and infected with things that you can easily find in a 3rd world country. My favorite conversation amongst my adopting friends centers around cheering for one another as they (and soon me) get 3 poop samples for the Doc to test for parasites. Oh the lovely, Giardia ... how exotic that must be. And ringworm. That's a joy! We're pretty certain our boy will have it. Did I mention scabies ... eeek ... let's treat those puppies in country BEFORE we infest our home and find ourselves on the next TLC episode of "infestation".
And well, don't EVER travel to Africa without your best friend, Cipro. I promise, you'll get the gunk and then all those exotic moments you dreamt of will be spent sitting on the toilet re-thinking every last thing you just consumed. That's a Hollywood moment for sure!

Hmmm mmm ... I wonder if you are re-thinking Angelina now? As a friend once said to me, "Everyone goes ... when you start to feel intimidated ... imagine them sitting on the pot". HA. Angelina doesn't look quite as exotic retrieving poop samples, treating scabies, ringworm, Giardia and more. In fact, she starts to look more and more like a Mom .... and well ... I guess I can take that as a compliment.

Day 4 ... Collection of Meds - Check! First Doctors Apt. Made - Check!

Preparation Day 3 - PARTY!

2012-01-26T08:24:00.000-08:00

With our awesome news today, we are busy getting serious about this preparation

BUT ...

While we do, I think it's only appropriate to do some celebration!

"Celebrate Good Times COME ON"!

My music is fitting for the party we are having today!!

Kool and the Gang ... how I love how you can bring in the joy!

We are CLEARED!!!!

2012-01-26T05:53:00.000-08:00

It is with abundant JOY that we announce ...

We are CLEARED!

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be the GLORY!" Ephesians 3:20

Zebene Levi Martine we are coming to get you!!

Embassy Interview Date - February 6 ... awaiting flight info, but prayerful for a departure of February 3.

Somebody Pinch me!!

Preparation Day 2

2012-01-25T07:20:00.000-08:00

Hair and Skin Care! People, this is a serious subject. I had a friend who posed this question to her FB community asking what products her friends with brown babies suggested. I thought, Hmmmm ... I need to come back to this so I have some ideas. 130 plus comments later ... I realized I was overwhelmed and I needed to do some serious researching.

There are ENTIRE websites devoted to this subject. One such site, ManeMane, actually exists to share product reviews and his thoughts on how to care for his awesome hair. Oh my gosh, talk about feeling the pressure. I have GOT to get this right.

Soooo... I found myself a few weeks ago at Sally's Beauty Supply staring at all the products for black hair care. I am sure I looked odd (the white girl with clearly sandy blonde hair) and the other patrons were beginning to sense my feelings of complete confusion as I stood starry eyed in the middle of the isle. Within a few minutes, I had not one ... but 3, happy helpers to share their insights on what they think would work (given the adorable picture I showed them of our Z when his head wasn't shaved ... because, well, one must first identify the texture and what kind of curls we are working with).

So I came home with oils, conditioners, shampoos with olive oils and some fancy brush to use "only when his hair is wet". I am learning words like "co-washing", that oil isn't just for cooking, that vaseline isn't just for white baby's bottoms, and that my little boy may soon get more time for hair/skin care than I do.

Apparently as well, I have bought these things and none of them may work. It will "take time" to learn a routine for each child. Oh dear.
I have one thing to say ... I am praying for all my friends bringing home girls! When all else fails, we'll cut that hair short and forego the cute fro for a bit of sanity. (though a fro is what we hope to discover along the way).

I also have realized I am in need of someone of African American descent to cut this cuties hair. Hmmmm ... if you live in San Antonio and have suggestions, I am open. This one makes sense.

I am praying for one thing along this journey ... lots of GRACE! I pray it can begin with hair. This one may take some time to perfect ... then again, last time we saw a photo ... his head was shaved so this may be a mute point initially. That too may take some time - hair to work with. Next post *ringworm of the scalp* oh. the. joy.

Warancha CarePoint Progress Update

2012-01-24T09:22:00.000-08:00

Where are We? Where are we going?

There are currently 200 children registered in the HopeChest program at Warancha CarePoint in Awassa Ethiopia, 44 which are sponsored (22%).

Unfortunately, there is still a great need for sponsorship funds in order to implement the full program we desire to see in Warancha. These past 6 months, we did see some exciting things happen for our children. The funds were large enough to pool them together to care for some great needs and rest assured, your sponsorship has been used to give a Hope and Future to your child.

At this time, all 200 children have received school supplies and school uniforms as well has their school fees have been paid. Every child is getting this opportunity and we are so excited about this!!

We do know, however, the importance of the feeding program to this community, but because their is not enough to supply for the needs of every child, we have had to make the tough decision to allocate the funds to be used in this way. In the meantime, our development team and field staff are going to begin providing a daily snack for the children during their break times while we continue our efforts to bring awareness to Warancha and gather more sponsors for our children. Our goal to kick off the feeding program is 60% sponsorship (120 children). This is not impossible ... we (with HE) can do this!

As we are able to see more children sponsored, we will be able to implement our initial initiative of a full feeding program (2 meals per day). We will hire a cook and work to raise the funds necessary to build a small kitchen for this purpose as well.

Please be watching for updates on the feeding program. Our awesome Development Team is working hard to make the right plan for action for our children.

Will you join us in spreading the word? We head into 2012 pregnant in anticipation of what the Lord has in store for our community!

If you are interested in joining the Warancha Family and sponsoring one of the children, please contact me (Cristie) at cmartine@satx.rr.com.

Don't forget to write your child! I promise, your letter is a treasure that they hold dear!

Preparation begins ... Day 1

2012-01-24T07:31:00.000-08:00

To include in the packing ...

In the event, Z forgets or doesn't realize the obvious ...

Glimmers of light

2012-01-20T06:26:00.000-08:00

I think I am starting to see a small light illuminating in the horizon. We are getting closer!! I am hesitant to believe it might be true as the thought of falling into disappointment if these things don't come to pass overwhelms me. Yet, I am having an oh so difficult time guarding my heart as I am clinging to the hope that we might just very well be blessed soon. Do I really see a light through that tunnel?

So here is what we know now ...

Next Thursday, January 26 (which is Wed. in the middle of the night the 25 for us), our birth Mom is scheduled for an interview with the embassy. Provided that interviews takes place as it is scheduled and all goes as our agency believes it should, we could be cleared that day to bring home our little boy!

Our agency asked us to submit 3 choices of days after that for our in country interview with the embassy (we will schedule travel around this very important day). After talking to a travel agent and Doug looking through his crazy work schedule, it appears we would have a hard time leaving before the 3 of February. Delayed more so because of my husband's work than anything else.

I'll admit, there are many many things the Lord has for me to learn along the way of this journey. His lessons do not stop. This week, it is the art of living out how to be a submissive and honoring wife. I really just wanted to throw a huge 2 year old tantrum with the thought that he needs us to wait an entire week after we could possibly be cleared to leave and be with Zebene - and bring him home. I have a feeling that week will feel like watching molasses drip on a cold day. BUT ... this story isn't about me. I am called to honor my husband and this is what he needs to be sure to leave his business well and feel ready to be away. He is an incredible Daddy, husband and provider and so I here goes ... honor.

SO ...

We have requested February 6 as our first choice, February 7 as our second and February 3 as our third choice. Yes ... you saw that right. Doug said that if we couldn't get in on the 6 or 7 for an interview (which would have us leaving out on Friday the 3), he'd run around like a mad man and we would go out earlier than the 3rd of February. Hmmmmm? Is it bad to say I pray that the embassy chooses our third choice as our first? Ooop ... I think I just failed the honor and submission test. HAHA.

All of this planning, however, is greatly dependent and contingent on that interview on the 26th with the birth mom. Preparing for travel is a mute point if we cannot get the embassy to clear us that day. Yes, that means - pray pray pray on Wednesday the 25th .... and if led, if you awake in the night, pray again.

We could very possibly awake to news on the 26th. Because Addis is 8 hours ahead, all this work of interviews, embassy submission and communication between our field staff in Ethiopia and the Embassy will happen while we sleep. HA ... sleep ... I have a feeling that will be a distant thought that night.

In the meantime, we are preparing as if in a few weeks our little boy is coming home. Getting some needed appointments taken care of, getting our taxes in order for the year, making sure we have everything we need for him and trying to prepare for the new journey ahead - transition. I have some crazy excited kids who are so ready!

T-shirt Fire Sale!

2012-01-14T15:40:00.000-08:00

O.K., we are closing in to the very END of this adoption process. As I work to clean out clutter and get ready for my sweet boy's arrival, I keep being haunted by 18 T-shirts from our fundraiser that need to be sold. Yeah, I'm not one for screaming "Buy Me". You might not want me as your next sales girl!! I did say 18.

ANYWAYS ...

I need to get rid of these T-shirts! They are cute, ring spun with a great design.

They are going for 12$

Sizes I have left - Kids Youth M - probably would fit like a size 8 or so - 5 of these

These next ones are Ladies fit - size up ONE as they run small!

Ladies Small (great for your tween daughter) - 2 left - I typically wear a small and it's a bit snug

Ladies Medium - 4 left

~~Ladies Large - 2 left~~ SOLD OUT!!

You can go right on over to the side and see my "Buy" button. In the comments, just make sure you confirm the size you want ... the drop down button for sizes is not working. That goes right into my paypal account. I would LOOOOOOVE to get these sold and well, those funds could sure help this last step .... 2 airline tickets to Ethiopia plus Z's coming home ... and project de-clutter/organize!

Thank you in Advance!!

front

Back

Waiting for you!!!

Nope

2012-01-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

Not again today. I actually awoke several times in the night thinking I wanted to check that e-mail to see if just by chance they had sent us a response. 8 hours ahead. I kept myself from doing so as I didn't want to spoil my nights sleep (yeah, right!) with great news or with disappointment of what had not arrived.
6:05 ... roll over, check e-mails. Nothing.

I was somewhat o.k. with that until I realized that it was already Friday. The only time T.G.I.F. is not celebrated is in the world of adoption when you are waiting on something. O.K. so like for 18-24 months for sure! That along with the fact that Monday is MLK and they are off to celebrate that means - nothing until at least Tuesday. GRRRR!

Even given holidays we have passed our 10 day mark, though. My sweet agency let us know that we shouldn't be concerned that it is something with our case as other families who were submitted in the similar timeframe are also waiting. That gives some comfort ... but doesn't make it easier. Waiting is waiting and at this point ... every day is a day lost with my child. I know the Lord will restore each of those. I am praying he does so in abundance!

One of the hardest things to work through in adoption is expectations!

We hosted an adoption seminar last night and that is one thing we tried to convey ... set aside your expectations. But the reality is, that is so hard when someone hands them to you. "10 days and you should hear a response". Somehow, your heart jumps right in to expectations and you find yourselves marking off days off your calendar (or so I am told - ha).

I'm being told the Embassy is "Backlogged". I also know they are now requiring birth parent interviews and doing some extensive investigations for abandonment cases. Given those things and the fact that they have holidays for two countries they take off - 23 days off total (yes I did count), I can see why... it still doesn't make it o.k. or easier for me.

Here's what they show for holidays. See for yourself. As well, perhaps it will help you set a better expectation of your own "10 days". Oh and the * means they take the day off on the Friday or Monday.

Bring Our Children Home

2012-01-12T06:39:00.000-08:00

Bring Our Children Home! What more can we say than that? Today, as I awoke, the first thing I did was roll over and open my iPad to see if the Embassy had responded to our case (8 hours ahead). I went to bed in prayer, I begged you to pray ... and I stepped out in Faith asking that I would awake to something more than we could ask or imagine. This morning, he answered with "not yet".

I don't know why! I don't know why he has not finished what he has started ... not just for me and my son but so many who sit and plead "Bring our Children Home"!

I know he hears us!

I am attaching a video and song written by my dearest friend, Cindy Foote. I found myself grumpy this morning. Being told "no", isn't easy no matter how old you are. The reality is, even in the stillness and quiet he is at work. As I went to this video again, I wept. So many faces in this video are HOME! My little girl Maliah, Libby, Gracie, Karleigh Mei, Lindy, Samuel, Naomi, Rood, Shoebin, Zoei and more . I also see so many who still await their "YES". Sunny (Cindy's little girl in Haiti who has now awaited TWO years!), the Jones girls. And I also know of so many faces not even represented here; Ashenafi, Sinteyahue, Leo, Levi, Zebene, Edilu, Meheret, ... would you like me to go on? There are so many families I know, personally, awaiting so many milestones in this road called Adoption ... this Marathon we have been chosen to run!

Bring our Children Home!

Today marks 2 years since the Haiti earthquake. Do you know how many children were orphaned that day? Do you know how many children are looking for the same answer ... your YES! Haiti's doors are open with my adoption agency. Tonight we will be hosting a seminar here in our city (San Antonio) to share with families this road called adoption. We will share with families how we are adopted by "God's Design". Tonight I pray that even one more family can be represented, in this plea to "Bring our Children Home". As I cry out to the Lord today, I am reminded that 163 million children are doing the same. They too are looking for a "yes".
You never know, your family may be a part of the fabric the Lord is creating in this thing we call the adoption community. Over the past 7 years I have watched as he continues to weave and sew it together. It is BEAUTIFUL and I invite you to come and see if you, perhaps, are a square in his quilt.

Today, in my flesh, I want to throw a 2 year old tantrum. Today, in my flesh, I want to curl up on the couch and forget the world and sulk and pout. But instead, I will praise the one who called us on this journey. I will trust the one who has claimed them for us. I will cry out Abba Father and celebrate knowing that he WILL finish what he has started. He is faithful!

Enjoy this video and this song! And well, I'll put a shameless plug out their for my Cindy. She has entire CD devoted to adoption and orphan care called "No Double Yellow Line". Go check it out for yourself! You will be blessed!

It's a celebration!

2012-01-10T06:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Zebene!

You are 4 TODAY!

As we drove to school this morning the car went into an uproar. Your Momma and 3 siblings sang as loud as we could "Happy Birthday to You". I was certain that you might have just been able to hear us 8,000 miles away. YOU ARE CELEBRATED! Today is YOUR day!

Of course, I sang through my tears and your brother told me it was o.k. to cry. "It's not right that he isn't home ... we are so close". How true that is!

Saturday night we celebrated with your Grandparents and your Great Aunt Susie. Her birthday was yesterday. I wonder what you would have thought of a great Texas steak! Granny broke out a present for you and the waitress wondered where the birthday boy was until we told her all about you. She fell in love with you through pictures and told us we made her night. Zebene Levi Martine, YOU ARE CELEBRATED!

I thought I'd share a few pictures of your birthday dinner with you here. I'm starting to consider a re-do once you are home. We have 4 years to make up for ... why not? Who needs the actual day to celebrate a precious boy!

Happy Birthday today my beautiful boy! While I celebrate you, I cannot do so without thinking of your beautiful birth mother. She is so brave! She is so strong! She has walked this process with us and without her ... we would not be where we are! She loves you! MiMi, you made the greatest sacrifice a mother could make. Your bold and courageous love will never go a day without being honored. We pray we can fulfill all those dreams you had for your baby boy. Thank you for allowing us this incredible honor to parent and raise your precious child!

Your Great Aunt Susie. It was her celebration too!

Look at your gift from Granny and PiPa. I am certain with your love for moving things that you will love this!

THAT is your birthday cake!

Your Granny and your sister, Maliah

Aunt Susie got her own special treat, courtesy of the restaurant.

Your PiPa and big sister

Your silly brother and sisters ... here they are wishing you "HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZEBENE" with your balloon.

Melkam Genna!!

2012-01-07T13:18:00.000-08:00

Melkam Genna! Merry Christmas in Ethiopia! January 7 marks that day for them and so when I awoke today (knowing the time difference), I knew they were finishing up a precious day of celebration with their families.
This also marks the last Christmas ... in any country's timeframe ... that my boy will spend without a family.

Fast forward a few hours and indeed, I was also blessed this day too! A sweet Momma who is in country sent me pictures of our boy at the celebration the Transitional Home did with our kids. LOVE IT! Apparently they got to watch a movie outside, eat lots and lots of candy, sing songs and put on a drama. Thought I'd share my blessings with you today.

MELKAM GENNA ZEBENE!

I know this one is blurry ... but I LOVE what it is all about. Tara said he jumped up and was dancing. He looks so happy too! I can't wait to see those moves!

I also thought I'd share with you a little about how they celebrate their Christmas. Perhaps we, in America, the land of abundance could learn something.

Ethiopian Christmas is a major holiday in

Ethiopia

and falls on January 7, instead of December 25. Unlike the rest of the world Genna is devoid of Santa Claus and Christmas trees. But more recently the trend has been changing where Christmas trees have slowly started creeping into Ethiopian households where many people started using decorating trees even if there is still no Santa Claus stories told, giving and receiving gifts is also not a big deal among the people rather new clothes are bought for children as a present on the holiday.

Genna is followed by one month long fast. It is said that Legend has it that among the Magi the king bearing frankincense as gift to baby Jesus was King Balthazar of Ethiopia. The day before Genna, people fast all day. The next morning at dawn, everyone dresses in white. Most Ethiopians do a traditional shamma, a thin, white cotton wrap with brightly coloured stripes across the ends. After the mass in church families get together to take part in the holiday feast which include doro wot, tela (homemade traditional beer) and Defo Dabo (bread made for holidays). As done in many holidays’ people visit relatives and spend the holiday feasting together.

Christmas is a holiday where many people come together especially in recent times Ethiopian Diaspora come for the holiday in an attempt to not only enjoy Genna, but also celebrate Timket (Epiphany), considered one of the biggest holidays of the year which is just two weeks away from Genna.

In rural areas people play yegena chewata; Ethiopia’s version of hockey which is played using carved stick and kind of rounded ball where men and young boys participate in the game – at times the rivalry can be fierce. There are also songs which are sung to show how people appreciate the game ‘begenna chewata aykotum geta’ at times the rivalry can be fierce. According to tradition, shepherds celebrated when they heard of Jesus birth by playing such a game.

Because I needed to smile and you might too

2012-01-05T06:20:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd share this video that makes us all giggle in our house. Watch and find joy in our little boy who is learning all his colors ... with GREAT excitement! We know he loves books. He loves to sit in your lap and point out pictures and tells you what he sees (in English and Amharic none the less). We also know that he loves his pre-school teachers. I have a feeling, I have a sponge coming home.

I need off the roller coaster!

2012-01-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

Today was good ... and hard. Good because we got an update of our sweet boy. Hard because we got an update of our sweet boy. Confused?

Our sweet boy is adorable and being so far away is growing ever so much harder. I'm such a liar ...
I just said a day or two ago how at peace I was. And I was. But now ... not so much! I'm a mess.

Welcome to the roller coaster of emotions with an adoption!

Yep, today I woke up and decided that I was so done with this wait. Today I woke up angry that we had received nothing ... just silence, from the embassy. I also woke up wondering and worried that there could be delays. So not that peace I had two days ago huh?

I'm so done not being able to see his smile, hold his hand and tell him he's never going to be alone again. I'm ready to figure out his likes and dislikes. I'm ready to hear him laugh. I'm ready to see him learn new things and experience a new world. I ready to hear him say again "Balooo" for Blue and giggle. And well, honestly ... you know your ready when you can visualize the really hard ... and say your ready for that too. Could it be any harder than being 8,000 miles away from your son?

So, today I felt that way and then it got worse (and better). Confused? Welcome to my hormones.

We got our December update for Zebene. It is with joy I got see his face. It is also with heartache as I see how much he is changing and growing without us. It is joy that I see him smiling and climbing on a park. It is with great sadness that I'm not the one helping him on the jungle gym while he plays. It is with joy that I read all the Nanny's answers to my questions. It is with heartache that I read that he too has heartache.

Ugh, dear Jesus, I'm starting to get motion sickness. I seriously need off this roller coaster!

Lord hear our cries

This is what they said today. The questions were mine ... the answers are in purple.

1. What do you believe we should have in our home or how should we prepare to help Zebene feel most comfortable when he arrives here with us?

a. He loves to have lots of playing cars, books and toys, to play with him and when he become angry or fussy he needs to be held closely or hugged

2. Does Zebene still have the photo albums we sent and is anyone sharing them with him? Does he ever mention his family now that we have met?

a. He often looks at the photo albums. After the family left he is always asking when his family is coming. Especially when he seeing other kid’s families coming

3. Does Zebene understand that the family that came to see him (us) will one day soon return to bring him with us to our home and make him our son? Do you visit with him about this?

a. After the family retuned he has been somehow sad and he has received follow up by transition home social worker and psychotherapist and he is doing well and assured that family will come back.

4. Does Zebene have a particular Nanny(s) that cares for him? If so, what are your names? (I have a picture of him with 2 Nanny's that I would love to bring.):

a. Zebene doesn’t have particular a Nanny he especially attached to, he is harmonious with all. When he was asked about it, he said Enatenesh and Abnet, who are his nursery school teachers. If you have photos with Nannies you can bring them and give them.

5. How is Zebene put down for bed/nap each day? Is he a good sleeper? Do you think he would be most comfortable upon arriving home sleeping in a room with someone else?

a. At 7:00 pm he will go to bed and he may not fall asleep for a few minutes. After he falls sleep, he sleeps all night. He will take a nap after lunch from 12:30 pm – 2:00pm each day.

Here's a few pictures too though this time they are blurry and well ... they shaved his hair again. BOOO!

Not me - ALL him!

2012-01-02T14:36:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I open up my blog or photos and see this face and CANNOT believe THIS IS MY SON!
It overwhelms me sometimes to think that 8,000 miles away is a precious boy with my last name, with my inheritance that is no longer an orphan ... nope, he is my boy! It overwhelms me to think that HE chose US to be his parents. I have NOT a clue what HE sees in me to think I am worthy of such a privilege. I am such a mess! I have so far to go to be in his likeness. What in the world? Seriously ... THIS is my son! So as I wait for embassy clearance, I found myself driving down the road today laughing. Yep, those next to me probably thought I was crazy. Why? Because I am at TOTAL peace and that is sooooo not in my nature. It is so NOT who I am! I could leave ANY day to bring home a son and I ... preparation, perfection Cristie is AT REST!

THAT my friends is testimony of a peace that surpasses all understanding!

I see his fingerprints all over my life

December 28 ...

2012-01-02T10:45:00.000-08:00

That was OUR day ... we were submitted to Embassy on December 28!!! I would have written sooner but our family was knee deep in snow and tearing the slopes. The whole family was skiing for the holidays which was so much fun. A first for my kids ... and well, back to a childhood love for this girl raised in the North. On that Wednesday, as I stood in line for the chair lift, it dawned on me ... it is WEDNESDAY! WEDNESDAY! WEDNESDAY!! Oh my gosh it was torture the rest of the day. All I could think about was our boy and the possibility of being submitted that day. As soon as we arrived back to our house I ran upstairs. I scrolled through the e-mails on my phone to find the long awaited one ... Yep, I'm all sappy ... I cried. We are on the LAST step!

Congratulations, your embassy paperwork was submitted today! Copies of all documents submitted are attached to this email.

We are excited for your family as you enter into this final stage of your adoption process. Many families have commented this season of waiting is the hardest, and our prayer for your family is that you will have a peace that passes understanding as you wait through this final season.

Once the embassy receives your paperwork, the embassy will let us know within 10 business days whether you are cleared, whether they'd like to interview someone involved in the case (birth parent, police, etc.), or whether your case is "not clearly approvable" and is being forwarded to the USCIS office in Nairobi, Kenya.

Birth Relative interviews are currently being requested for all cases with a living relative who relinquished a child, so we encourage any family with that situation to be prepared for this possibility. If an appointment is requested, it may take as long as a week or more for the embassy to request this from the date of paperwork submission, and as the embassy only has limited interview slots, it may take a week or more for this individual to interview (if applicable and requested).

Once your paperwork is submitted, the embassy will copy your family on all correspondence with us. The Embassy could potentially notify us on any day of the week that you are cleared to travel and will notify you and us once you are cleared via email. As soon as they clear you to travel you will need to notify the embassy of your top 3 choices for embassy interview dates. We will then request these dates and should hear from the embassy on the following business day regarding your request.

Embassy interviews occur Monday-Thursday with the exception of embassy holidays. Visas are issued the second day after the interview (Monday interview=Wednesday visa pickup) with the exception of Thursday interviews for which visas are issued the following day (Friday). Families can leave Ethiopia any time after 7pm on the day the visa is issued.

If you have any further questions on this, please let me know.

In Him,

So, there you have it ... we now WAIT again. Each step brings a new place of trust. We are pretty sure they will request that birth parent interview and that could take some time ... but guess what 2012 brings??? ZEBENE COMING HOME!

Happy New Years friends! It indeed is looking to be a glorious one FULL of transitions, hope, and promise sprinkled with heartache, trials and the process of redemption. We are READY!

Nope, negative, nuh huh.

2011-12-21T11:42:00.000-08:00

Not today. Today's not our embassy submission date. It is confirmed. We have been notified that they are still collecting post court documents for our little guy and will notify us when they have all been collected. Praying next week ... December, 28 WILL be our day. Perhaps 5 weeks will be our time.

One picture says so much

2011-12-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

I love this picture .. and all the things it says.

Yes, my sweet boy, that is YOUR bed! Mommy can't wait to tuck you in each night, kiss you and hug you and pray over you. One day, my sweet boy, you will be home ... and you will NEVER go to bed without these things. One day soon.

Sweet sentiments

2011-12-20T15:41:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day! How could it not be when a Momma receives two beautiful messages AND photos of her son 8,000 miles away. It is GOOD ... HE is good!

My first sweet sentiment came from a fellow adopting Momma who is at the transitional home right now. The sweetest part of this note is that it was unexpected. I didn't even ask for this sweet family to bless me ... and yet, they did! I tell ya, it's the little things you do that can brighten a day ... and today, Margaret brightened mine! This is what she sent me ... allll the way from Ethiopia. Margaret, thank you for being Jesus to me today. Your note was like his personal hug! Thank you Thank you!

Today we did care packages. Our court date is tomorrow and are doing much with the family Mowen and Tara delivered your care package today. (I also follow you blog). Anyway, the point of this email is to tell you that your son Z, Levi, is simply precious. He took a liking to my husband and sat with him for some time reading books and drawing. He was so excited about his care package as well. He carried it around with him everywhere he went, emptied it and put it back together several times. He went through the photo album with my husband and pointed at people. He loved, loved the stickers as well. He wore about two whole packages by the end of the afternoon. He has a sweet smile and very warm spirit and my husband says was making faces and just overall very friendly. My husband says he was quite impressed with his language skills as well- one of the books was animals and he knew them all, even butterfly, which is not a typical one. :)

We just wanted to share this with you to make you smile.

May your embassy date come quickly, but until then, may it be stories like this that make the wait a bit easier.

The second sweet sentiment came from fellow adopting Momma, Tara. We had sent a care package with her for our Zebene and a photo release. We were also blessed to have met her two boys while we were in country with Zebene. I got to help give them her care packages she sent with another family and take some pictures of her sweeties. Today, she more than re-payed that favor.

First, I got a sweet sweet note in my in-box. THEN ... this afternoon, a slew of e-mails began arriving with pictures. Tara did such an awesome job with pictures that my in-box actually went over quota and began bouncing them back to her. We successfully got 12 of the pictures she sent ... but seriously ... there are MORE!

This was our note from Tara;

We loved loved loved your son! He is a doll! He loved posing for pictures and made my job easy! I took tons!! We are about to go to Traditional Dinner, But I will try to email them when I get home if I get your email. He said Mom and Dad at your photos and loved looking at each one. He got excited about Ashenafi's picture in there too. About an hour later I saw him on the porch
looking at your bag again, so sweet!

Indeed, the America World adoption community is the best and today, I was on the receiving end of some awesome blessings. Thank you ladies for making this Momma smile. Now, how about some pictures to make YOU smile!

I'm not about to put my goodies down. No way, uh uh.

Do you like my stickers?

Yes, that is my family and they ADORE ME!

I love how he is pointing out Canyon and Ashenafi.

I cannot get enough of those eyes and that smile! COME ON EMBASSY!

His time ... His sovereignty.

2011-12-19T13:16:00.000-08:00

As I write the title of this post, I do so with a big ol' gritting of the teeth. *grin and bare it* SIGH! I try to smile through it. I know it is true. His timing, it's sovereign. He knows every day. He knows every detail. He knows the why's, the how's and the WHEN's. So we trust ... even if sometimes trust comes with a ~~big~~ small two year old tantrum first.

So, this morning I e-mailed our travel coordinator for our adoption (our agency) as I have become aware that the Embassy is requesting a birth parent interview from EVERY birth parent that is involved in a case. This is us. This is a part of our story. Our little boy's birth Mom is alive and well and yes, a very much a part of this story. So this will indeed effect us.

We are currently waiting to be "Submitted". It can only be done on Wednesdays and most recently it is taking around 4 weeks from the passing of court to make that happen. A slew of paperwork must be gathered and like all good things ... that takes time. So we hope. We pray that THIS week is our week for that ... Wednesday will be 4 weeks ... even if they did send us an e-mail that said they projected our family to be submitted the 28th. THIS Wednesday is the 4 week mark and so I pray that THIS Wednesday is OUR day!

BUT ... unlike what we had known about the Embassy having "10 days to provide clearance", we now know will take longer for our case as, indeed, our Zebene's birth mother will need to be interviewed. And yes, once again ... that means time. Time to be arranged in the Embassy's schedule. Time for her to travel 12 hours up. Time for the interview. Time for Embassy to respond. Time. Time. Time.

So today, this is what Kristin projected out as the "time". I will try and not kick the walls and scream and hit like a two year old. As I am trying to teach my six year old "Self Control"and I will need to remind myself that I am the role model - DARN IT!

As I type, I am in the middle of baking Christmas goodies and preparing my kids for a ski trip gift from their Grandparents. All those things are wonderful gifts to us this year. We have so much to be thankful for. And well, we rest in knowing that our biggest *GIFT* is yet to come ... Zebene's arrival home - 2012!!! Who should be so lucky to have the best Christmas gift to come! Who should be so ~~lucky~~ blessed that he thought we were worthy. We are! And so ... we wait on HIM to say when!

Merry Christmas! I anticipate within 2 weeks of being submitted, the embassy will email us and your family requesting a birth parent interview. They are currently filling up about 1-2 weeks out from the date of the request, so you can potentially expect a birth parent interview to occur for your family 2-4 weeks after being submitted.

Yes, Z, like that ... gritting of teeth ... you got the face. Grin and bare it!

I know ... I am supposed to look like this. Our JOY cometh in the morning!

Perspective ... it IS a beautiful thing!

2011-12-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

So now that he's "ours", I would love to share a little more of our story. I have been wanting to get some of this down on paper (um, er, blog) so that when I am old and grey I can re-tell my beautiful boy all about the story that the Lord was writing - long before we knew he was busy writing it. I don't want to forget the places along the way that I had come to learn were the fingerprints of God.

July 27 2010, we set out to adopt a little person from Ethiopia. At that time, we weren't sure if it would be a boy or a girl but we knew that it was a child somewhere between 3 and 4. It didn't take long though that it was decided it was a boy ... something about 3 kids yelling brother and naming him from the backseat of the car might have been a clue. To add, I had had several dreams where I saw the same little boy ... in a blue sweater. It all seemed to make sense to us and so there you go,
it's a boy!

The paperwork process began and off we went walking confidently into the financing portion of our adoption. We had a plan and a way until about ... oh ... 6 whole weeks into the process and Doug lost $5,000 out of his monthly income. Yep, there it went, the confidence and the finances - all in one dark day.

So, there I sat at church on a Sunday morning in September in tears. Sobbing my way through worship I realized I was so mad. Mad and confused! Why in the world had we heard the Lord say "go" ... and if we really even did, why would this happen now? I couldn't wrap my head around the why's of it all. Those moments felt so overwhelming ... like the grief you encounter during a horrible loss ... which didn't make sense to me at all. I couldn't figure out his timing ... but just kept telling Doug that I knew he had said "NOW". Doug agreed ... and so we kept walking.

That next Friday night, two friends arrived at our door. They had a proposal for us ... they wanted to help us put together a garage sale to help us raise some of the funds we needed for the journey that lay ahead. I remember sitting on the couch bewildered. We barely even really "knew" this couple. Sure, we had run in somewhat the same crowd at church at one time but that was so long ago. I sat listening to this precious couple tell us how they wanted to serve and help US and yet I couldn't figure out really, what had prompted their hearts!

That week, on September 11 2010, I wrote this post! And during that week the Lord gave me this scripture;

"I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers". Isaiah 65:24

Little did I know just how relevant that scripture was ... not just for me, but for my son. It was that week, on September 22 2010 that our Zebene was taken by his birth Mom to the orphanage. On that day, he became an orphan ... and on that day - September 22, 2010, we also turned in all our paperwork to our social worker so we could begin the home study portion of our process. We were still waking this journey!
It wasn't just our needs he was considering. He didn't just show up in our finances through the heart of sweet friends. No, all the while, a beautiful young woman was making the hardest decision of our her life and he was busy going to work getting a family 1/2 way around the world ready to bring him HOME ... heartache and all ... we were walking through each door!

Fast forward some months ... 7 of them. On May 24, 2010 I blogged about how the Lord was preparing our hearts for our little boy. On that day I wrote this post. On that day I wrote these words

Last night I had the most vivid dream of our referral moment and the moment I saw your face. My heart must be well prepared and perhaps the day will soon come indeed. We will only know when he shows us his hand and his timing. Though it doesn't feel perfect, we know it is.

I wanted you to know though, Levi, as you look back at your journey that each and every night we prayed for you and your arrival home. We dreamt of you, talked of you and included thoughts of you in all of our preparations and plans. Yesterday during nap time your big sister Maliah was crying. It was an intense set of emotions she was going through and without prompting she said "I miss my Levi and want him home". You are talked of often and I believe in our hearts, you have been born. Watching the swell of emotions from your 5 year old sister reminds me of this truth.

Though we can't see the Lord at work in this story, we know he is. Much like each day, we can't see our breathe or the wind in the air ... it is there. So is his presence and his hand in your story. We may not see it now, in this moment what he is up to ... but I think our spirit does. He is preparing a place for you ...

On that very day, May 24 2010, our little boy was being brought from the Shalom Children's Hope Orphanage to the Transitional Home of our adoption agency where he would be prepared and readied for his new family. Yes, on that day ... the Lord really was preparing a place for you, Zebene, and along with that place, he was preparing our hearts!

And most recently, the Lord showed us just how hard the enemy is at work to try and assure that you would not come home. But we know what the Lord says ... If our God is with us, then what can stand against us?

As I recently wrote about it, here, our travels to get to you was less than easy. 75 LOOONG hours full of one trial after another. I will never forget after about 48 hours of chaos, Dakota telling me that "Jesus's angels and the enemy's Demons were fighting for us ... but that that was o.k., because we KNEW who would win". Boy, did I ever need that reminder in that moment. It was those words that bought me the next 24 hours.

As we were on our last plane and arriving in Ethiopia, I wrote that post above. Of course, you can imagine how drained both emotionally and physically we were in those moments. We were sure we would never make it to Africa. As our plane was landing I remember looking down and seeing my blue eyed beauty in tears. Tears! I asked her what was wrong thinking that something had happened and she shook her head and then through broken words began to explain that she was overcome with joy. Her tears, were tears of JOY! She had seen us WIN!

I wrote that post and received many different comments and reflections from some of you. Mostly encouragement from those who read on. Bewilderment from others who couldn't believe we had made it through such an ordeal ... in one piece and still had smiles on our faces. I know, I was just as bewildered. That alone is a finger print of God I shouldn't forget.
But there was one comment that has always left me puzzled. The one comment that seemed to work hard to set me into my place ... telling me that I should stop and consider just how much our little boy had been through. The tone of the comment letting me know that somehow, they didn't appreciate my reflection of my 75 hours and that they thought in some way I had never stopped and considered the loss, grief and trials my own son had encountered to get to this place. I suppose seeing my hours as simple, nagging complaints. The comment told me that I didn't need to ever understand why I had missed two days with my boy ... and ended by telling me "perspective was a beautiful thing".

But alas, so much of what you said was wrong ... and yet, so much was right. First, I have always wanted to comment on your comment that would suggest that we have never considered the loss, grief and trials our son had to encounter to find his way into our lives. Are you kidding me??? I live this ... daily! This aint our first disco. We live daily the reality of what brokenness does in a child. We have not only considered it ... but we have are learning with each day how to live it! Secondly, you are so so right too! You see, perspective is a beautiful thing!! In the 75 hours that we were encountering travel hell, we learned that our precious boys birth Mom was traveling 12 hours North and giving her consent to a judge to allow for this adoption to take place. We didn't have to ever know that ... but the Lord sure did want us to. I suppose he thought you were right ... perspective is beautiful!

You see, we knew all along that our chaos was spiritual warfare, and we were pretty sure what we were battling ... but now we know WHY we were battling it! It was everything that the enemy could do to keep us from making it to Ethiopia. It was everything he could do to discourage us, because he KNEW if we did arrive, that the way was being paved for our little boy to be placed without reservation into our lives. OUR LIVES ... the lives of a family who would most assuredly tell him THIS story ... the story of a redeemer that had been answering his prayers even before their was a need for them. A story about a redeemer who had begun to grow a child in our heart, long before we had ever seen his face. A story of a redeemer who had come to take our precious boys ashes and turn them into HIS beauty! A story that we will most certainly tell him the rest of his precious days!

So, there you have it ... Perspective! You are right! It is such a beautiful thing ... and even more beautiful, when you see the fingerprints of God sprinkled through it.

Our journey continues ... he is still writing this great story!

What now brown Cow ... what's next?

2011-12-09T06:03:00.001-08:00

Many have asked what happens now? I know it seems so hard to understand that we went half way around the world, passed court and yet did not come home with our son. Welcome to adoption where things don't always "make sense". Faith!

So what now? We are currently waiting on the US side to clear our Zebene to come home. After we passed court, the judge wrote a court decree that is compiled with a bunch of other paperwork. The infamous MOWCYA approval letter, original birth certificate, passport and another round of medical tests must be completed on Zebene to be submitted to our embassy for approval. This approval gives us the much needed clearance to come for our "interview" and get his VISA to come home. Rounding up all these things can take anywhere between 2 and 5 weeks. Our agency "guestimates" that ours should be submitted on December 28. We (our agency) can only submit files on Wednesdays so that means if our paperwork is ready on a Thursday, we have to wait until the next Wednesday to be submitted. UGH. I know.

Once that is submitted, the Embassy has 10 days to respond to our case and can do one of 3 things;
1.) Find his case "Clearly Approvable" and clear us for an interview and travel. We will then organize and set our "Interview appointment" which happens in country and travel to bring him HOME!
2.) Request additional evidence to which our agency would need to track down those items and then we await the Embassy to approve.
3.) Send our case to the USCIS in Nairobi, Kenya for a complete investigation which would mean a lengthy delay ... most often, months!

So, can you take a guess which door we are praying for! Clearly ... not hard to decide.

It is our prayer and hope that we are frantically organizing travel and details for a January Embassy date. That is our prayer this Christmas. Will you join us in that prayer?

In the meantime, I am trying to figure out how you do Christmas with all that's on our hearts. I mean, how do you travel twice in a year to a place where you have seen so many children without the basic necessities of life and then come home and shop away to fill stockings and more without thinking and reconciling what you have experienced and the truth of all the things we really don't need? How do you reconcile that your 3 children have always had Santa bring them goodies each year and yet next year, your child from Ethiopia may stop and wonder where Santa was in his life ... I mean, all those cute TV shows talk about Santa taking goodies to kids all around the world who have been "nice"? Did Santa just forget him? It's just something that is rattling around in my heart. Even if he never asks ... you better believe my other kids will. And well, what if they don't either ... is that a free kitchen pass to not stop and really take a deeper look at the way we do things? And really, truthfully, we don't make a fuss out of Santa to begin with since we do try to keep our kids perspective on the truth of Christmas ... a celebration of the King of Kings birth. But 11 years ago, the only way I knew to celebrate Christmas was the one that most Americans celebrate. The one with a big fat man who brings you gifts of tidings and joy when you have a been a "good little girl" all year. Anything different didn't sound like "Christmas" to me. And it's not wrong ... their are many believers who follow suite and do the same. Their is the argument that it brings children joy and it is fun to make believe - that isn't wrong or bad. It doesn't mean they don't and can't know the true meaning of the holiday. I am not saying that is the case. But in the end, I wonder (for us) what Jesus would think that we have overshadowed his day in the attempts to keep "tradition" and make things "Fun" in light of all he showed us this year about who he really is ... ? 11 years later and 11 years deeper into my faith, I find my heart taking a moment to re-examen the choices we have made and wonder what Christmas would be like if our joy was wrapped up in the beautiful and simple story of a baby born in a manger who came to save the world. Isn't that enough? Would that be enough?

If he was enough for us ... shouldn't he be enough for my kids too? If a manger, full of animals, with a feed box was good enough that night for the King of Kings ... then why do we believe we deserve anything better? Why do we believe that HE isn't enough joy each Christmas?

I am just wondering. I am just pondering. I'll let you know if I come to a conclusion. As for this Christmas, we have set out stockings and the "Elf" of Elf on the shelf has arrived. My kids do love the joy of looking for him each day. And that's fun. We also have enjoyed sitting around the table, drinking hot coco and reflecting on a baby who came to save the world. We have discussed and pondered what Mary must have thought that day when an angel appeared before her. My kids have come to the conclusion that maybe, just maybe, Angels don't look like what we think they do ... because if they did, then why would each time an angel appear before someone, would their meeting begin with "Do not fear"? We have pondered why their were no rooms available that night and there was no place more deserving and comfortable for the birth of the Savior. We have talked about that perhaps, Jesus, who came into a home with little was showing us that if it was enough for him .... it should be enough for us!

Zebene Levi Martine ... a little debut

2011-11-28T19:57:00.001-08:00

Thought I'd put together a little video of our journey thus far. It's nothing fancy ... we'll do that one later. But for now, I think you can get a good look at our boy here.

Enjoy!

Almost home...

2011-11-26T15:47:00.001-08:00

Here we sit. Again. We are almost home now after 25 plus hours of traveling. One more layover in LA, one more flight to go. But we definitely all left a huge part of ourselves back in Ethiopia. As we were heading to our flight in Ethiopia Canyon informed us he didn't want to leave. He held back tears of sadness. Just as Ethiopia did to me and just as I hoped ....Africa stole a part of each of us. My kids have grown and changed so much. I have watched them laugh, love and live beyond themselves. They get it! They now have faces to marry with the statistics we all throw out about the orphan crisis. They have walked the halls of orphanages, smiled and loved children who to much of the world are forgotten. And while they were doing it ... They saw Jesus in each of them. (see Matthew... Whatever you do to the least of these you do to me) This was my greatest prayer. No dollar amount or travel glitches can measure what I saw in my kids faces as they became the living Gospel ... Sharing truth of his love by simply being him wrapped up in tennis shoes and a smile! Worth it!!!We also laughed much and grew a ton as a family. Travel trials, meeting our brother and son, court fiasco and pressures, loving on kids, fellowshiping with other families and taking in a new culture are all a part of what the Lord has used in 10 short days to show us a little more of him but also a little more about ourselves. Growth is often hard ... But so good!We also come home with a better idea of what to expect upon our arrival home with Z. Lots of transitions are to come ... But we cannot wait to start the process! I will talk more about that soon. Thank you for praying. Keep them up! We are hoping our paperwork will be submitted to the embassy soon and that we will be granted a quick approval so we can return for our embassy interview and bring our little guy HOME!!!Until then, we rest in the knowledge that he is loved by the one who can love him best!!!

Saying Goodbye is never easy!

2011-11-25T05:33:00.001-08:00

Saying goodbye is never easy, but when you are leaving your 3.5 year old for an unknown amount of time ... It is horrible. Our last day with Z was fun but hard. He is a shy little guy and yet we have seen a small windows into a a big personality waiting to be uncovered. The week went so fast with him and the reality is, he really doesn't understand much of what is going on ... Including, who are these forenge's that keep showing up and smothering me in hugs. The older children, however, are an entirely different story. Today I watched as the children gathered around Yonas and were inquiring when their families were coming. For some, the news was bright ... Parents were coming and coming soon. But I also watched as one little girl sat in tears and asked why she didn't yet have a family. I watched as Yonas told her that soon God would bring her one. My heart ached and a lump filled my throat. We adore our Z and would love to say that he was broken when we left but the reality is, he is still too young to get it and too young to understand this process. Sure, he will soon understand what a family is ... But not yet. Saying goodbye was torture for us ... But honestly, I am actually relieved that he doesn't know yet what he is missing. How much harder it has been to watch those families with older kids who do get it. Words cannot describe their sadness. We wait anxiously to return so we can begin to grow as a family and watch in wonder as our Z blooms over time. But today ... Today I watched children we did understand what it means to not have a family. I watched what being chosen feels and looks like. I also saw what it looks like when you are not chosen. If I can send one plea, it would be to ask if that family is you. Is God calling you to a older child? There are many who hope so! The kids are beautiful and full of joy! They are created in his image and yurning to be loved by a family. I will say that I am so impressed by our transitional home. The Nanny's love the kids and the home is well cared for but yet, it is still not a family!

2011-11-24T11:12:00.001-08:00

We have a SON! It is official. It seems the enemy is working overtime on this assignment but once again, he is defeated!

We returned to court the next day at 9:00. We recognized many faces in the crowd as others who had also been turned away the day prior. We had been told on that day that the judge was frustrated that people were talking. This day, the room was absolutely silent. Every once in a while you would see a group begin to emerge as the talkers, however, another agency rep. that my kids lovingly nicknamed "Officer Bob" would go and tell them of the previous days mishaps. Quickly they would quiet.

After 2 plus hours of waiting we heard the name Shalom ... our orphanage. Our rep. went in only to return with a shaking head. We waited and waited and waited with little word of what was happening. By 11:30 I was beginning to grow weary and disheartened. The room was still very full and we knew the court closed without apology at 12. We then found out that one of the files from our group of 2 had "misplaced". We did not know which one it was, only that they could not locate it. Our agency rep disappeared for some time. The room began to empty and we soon found ourselves the only families waiting court with exception to one other family. Low and behold, it seems our files had been filed under theirs and vice versa. Once our files were safely recovered we entered the judge's court. We found a soft spoken, well dressed, beautiful woman. She asked us a stream of questions and then we heard from her lips "it is approved, Zebene is yours". I could hardly believe my ears. As I stood up, I was in disbelief. I turned to our rep and asked "we are approved, he is ours". Smiling, he shook his head and said "yes yes".

Both us and the other family we had grown to love, the Borges, emerged from the court as new parents again. We were all in tears. All the waiting and heartache and 75 hours of travel quickly became a distant memory ... Zebene Levi Martine was OFFICIALLY an orphan no more! We have a son!

The past few days have been busy busy since. We have enjoyed some time at another orphanage today (AHope), an orphanage for HIV+ children only. We held babies and the kids passed out goodies. We brought donations of crocs and visited with their program director.

Zebene is a hilarious little guy. We have learned that he isn't a crowds man and would rather rome freely on his own. Each day we arrive he is shy and reserved but will find one of us (Doug and I) and reach up to be held. We love that! I can't wait to tell him one day how whenever he would see a picture of us, he would call us a forenge (white person/foreigner). It makes me laugh. The Nanny's and our guides will correct him and tell him "Mommy, Daddy", and he will give his little nod of the chin and raise his eyebrows as if to say "yes" ... and soon will follow with his own version "Mommy, Daddy Forenge".

There are some points of the day that he will get very animated. I think in those moments we see a window into his real personality. Today, we are pretty sure he was telling Doug just how he felt about something. He was very verbal about something while we were playing on the slide. He had the kids and I laughing so hard. We need to get it on video so that perhaps Yonas or Job, our guides can tell us what he is saying ... then again, do we want to know?

We know we have a long road ahead with bonding and attachment. Communicating is harder than I had expected although I did learn today what "shint" is. Yep, pee pee. Got that all important point down. I am certain that might be one of the important ones. I think when I arrive home, I will be doing some heavy Amharic studying.

We sure love this little guy though. He is truly a gift. Thank you so much for praying us through court. You know though, your assignment is far from over. We still have embassy to clear so we can bring him home.

Well, it is getting very late here. I know all you really want to see are pictures so I will try and post a few. I have a few with some animated faces of our Z with his Daddy that I can't wait to post when I get home. I haven't loaded them yet though. But, I guess this is the big reveal. Meet our son ..

Zebene Levi Martine

Dakota made a special friend. I can't show her face or say her name yet as they are awaiting word that they passed court. But let's just say, language didn't get in the way of an amazing little new friendship.

The Borges family. We adored this family!

Day 3 and 4 ... But no court!

2011-11-22T07:57:00.001-08:00

Hello from Ethiopia! Sorry for no posts lately, however just as everything is unpredictable...so is the Internet. Day 3 and 4 with Z went great! We are learning more and more about our little guy. He loves his Meccena (cars). He also loves books and pointing to the pictures and telling us what he sees. I have learned he can say duck, elephant, cat, fish, count to 20, sing a precious ABC song and more. While playing a game of UNO with some of the older kids, he also pointed to the number 3 and told us what it was.He has a cautious spirit and becomes afraid of things easily. Heights don't appear to be his thing. For example, he will only climb part ways up the slide and the pauses and turns around. It is as if he is trying to find his courage. we learned when he doesn't want to do something he will shrug his little left shoulder and out his face towards it. Yes is a raise of the eyes (as all Ethiopians), he will give you 5 when you ask and well, has a smile that will light up the room! I have gotten a few sweet hugs and moments. When we arrived yesterday, he looked around at the kids and Doug with a little hesitancy and then walked to me and put out his hands to be picked up. It ended in some good cuddles. Today Doug got him in his lap listening to music (which he loves) and he sat there for a long time nestled in with him. We got to see his bed and Nanny's which was good. The older kids were all precious! I would love to put a plug for the beautiful older kids. They are precious!!!! Doug and Canyon have stirred up quite a few games of soccer.Went to court today. I was a nervous wreck. After we arrived I learned that Z's mom gave her consent four days ago. I was relieved to know that had been done but also sad we wouldn't meet her today as her court day was supposed to be with ours after her original date didn't take place. We waited for some time and then it seems for whatever reason we don't know or understand, the judgge got upset and canceled all courts. We stood outside for 2 hours in hopes of our director getting favor, but it didn't happen. They are saying we will try again tomorrow. Welcome to Africa.We are having a great time though. My kids have been amazing!!!! I can't tell you how many times they have brought me to tears. Giving a homeless man their water, making new and precious friends at the transitional home, buying things from street kids and having conversations with them and looking as though feel right at home. It has been life changing for sure! Canyon bought a soccer ball from someone one the street. He took it to the TH to play with it and it got torn up. He responded by saying that he'd only bought the ball to help the man and bless the kids. He had no intention of bringing it home. Love!If you notice this is one big paragraph, my apoologies! My iPad makes my posts weird. I also can't upload pics except on Doug's computer. Please be praying on Tuesday night your time (wednesday for us) for court. We feel the spiritual storm around us and are asking for prayers to see our way through it. It gets harder each day to leave my boy behind. Every time the van drives away, I watch I tears as they walk him down the road to his current home. Yesterday, he turned back and waved... I about lost it!! Friday will be tough, but it will be even tougher if we still lack passing court.I know many of you are living this too. So thankful we can pray one another throughout it.

Day 2 - getting to know you

2011-11-20T07:51:00.001-08:00

Today, being Sunday, we awoke and had the pleasure of attending the International Evangelical Church here in Addis. It was awesome to see so many nations gathered in one place for worship. I imagine that that was a mere small window into what it will be like in heaven as we worship in one accord. Beautiful faces of many nations. You can imagine my surprise then when the worship team began to sing "All praise to God", which is a song from my dearest friends Billy and Cindy Foote. I wept. I know their heart for the nations and I know how excited that they would be to know their songs have made it to Ethiopia.

From there, we went to lunch was delicious. Of course, the best part of every meal is the fellowship with the other families. We are blessed by precious families in our midst ... precious families with precious kids!

From there we went to the Transitional Home to see our Z. When we arrived he was nowhere to be found. We soon found out that he was out seeing a children's Exhibition and having a picnic with the social worker/staff from the older children's transitional home. Though we were sad he wasn't yet there, to know they do such amazing things with our kids is refreshing.

Our awesome guides went looking for him and he arrived about an hour later. I could tell he'd been having a good time. He was also wearing an outfit we had sent him in a care package. Love it!
He came in and was again unsure of us. That only lasted a few minutes though as he quickly went to work playing ball and kicking us the blow up beach ball that we had on hand.

He loves to giggle and his smile is radiant. His eyes are amazingly beautiful and expressive.
For times sake ... as we are about to leave to go to a traditional Ethiopian restaurant, I wanted to post a few things we learned about our little boy today.

He is assertive. He kept telling us "Umptuh" as he would reach for toys. I asked Yonas our guide and he said that meant "bring it" ... in other words - give it to me.
He can count .. in english .. I know to four at least
He tells us "kwoss" when he wants the ball. We soon learned that is the Amharic word for it. duh!!
He doesn't like help and is like any other 3 year old "I do it myself" ... only his eyes and his twist of the shoulders tell us so.
He loves stickers

The highlight for me today was at one point when Doug was acting like he was going to get Z. He was doing tickle fingers and saying "I'm gonna get you". Z turned to me, put his hands up (asking me to hold him). I grabbed him up in my arms and he held on tight like a little monkey. As I ran away with him he giggled in delight.

Every moment counts!

While I can't show you photos yet our boy, I'll put a few in here of the kids. They are doing AMAZING! Canyon is quite in his element and has LOVED playing with the older kids at the transitional home. Both them and he have quite the soccer skills and language is no barrier when it comes to "futball". Dakota is doing awesome too. She stays right by Z's side and is always telling him in English what things are. Super fun watching my kids thrive and come alive here in Ethiopia.

Lunch

Shopping at the "post office"

Having fun. There is our boy ...

I ran into a boy I met in February in the "post office" (shopping area). His name is Tesfay. We both recognized one another

Metcha Day

2011-11-19T11:44:00.001-08:00

We met our boy! What a day. I am not sure I can put it into words and I so wished I could share pictures but not yet. pray for that passing court!As we stood waiting for him to come through the doors and on to the porch, I thought I was going to loose it. But within seconds I saw a precious little boy come walking down a hall and on to the porch of the Transitional Home. Grabbing Job, our guides hand, he walked straight to us. As we knelt down he went right to Doug and stood solemnly quiet. Job began to tell him something and he listened intently with his eyes focused on the family who was taking pictures for us nearby. I slowly reached up and took his hand and just simply held it. What a brave boy!We moved over to a grassy area and got out a toy car. That was a big hit for sure. For a while he stood examining his car with little emotion on his face. He worked very hard to keep his eyes from meeting mine. I can only imagine what he must be thinking. After a bit, I caressed his back and tickled him a bit. It wasn't long and he flashed his first smile our way. I knew we had break through. We blew up a beach ball and began to toss it around to one another. Soon it became a game that he joined in. Taking turns he tossed it to each of us ... His choice, us in the middle. Before I knew it, we had full giggles and smiles and then we heard it "daddy". Melt our hearts! He has stolen our hearts.The day went beautifully and we couldn't be more pleased. He is so full of joy. And well, Maliah might have a run for her money in the curiosity department. Pipa, we have some work to do on a few broken child locks. I have a sneaky suspicion he will be into everything. A few things about Z we learned1. He has the greatest smile2. he has the most expressive eyes3. he loves my iPhone and in particular music and turning it up and down.4. He can point to pictures of some animals and tell you the names in English; elephant, fish, monkey, duck.5. When I asked him "what is this" - pointing to his car- he told me the word for car in Amharic. 6. He loves to touch and explore.7. He loves to throw balls.8. He is cuddly to hug9. They shaved his beautiful hair. Boo! His recent pics it had gotten long.10. He has a sweet voice.Tomorrow, we get to see him again in the afternoon after church and lunch. It can't come soon enough!

Planes, trains, automobiles ...0h my!!

2011-11-18T13:05:00.001-08:00

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles!!!!!!We are now officially in the air on our last flight into Addis. We were supposed to be arriving on the night of the 16, however, we entered travel hell from the moment we stepped foot into the first airport. 72 hours later, two deplaning journeys, two Tarmac stand stills and 3 hotels ( with no sleep), 4 bus rides, two airport taxi's and and 27 hours in Germany ... We should be arriving in 3 or so hours. It will be 8:30 pm on the 18th when we arrive ... 11:30 am our time the same day. That actually would make it 73- count them - 73 hours of traveling now. It seems crazy to even type that!Though it would take me a full 73 hours of retelling the story to allow you the full pleasure of our entire experience, I will work to hit the highest points of our "joys" along the way.1. We boarded our first flight, were just set to take off and the captain came on to say that Houston was grounded due to storms. 0ur first hint of rough skies ahead.2. Sat two hours in the airport and reboarded the plane once Houston cleared us to travel. Reboarded and headed out on a Tarmac and just as we were set to depart, the captain informs us Houston is again closed. We sit ... 1.5 hours - this time on a very hot plane, on the runway, as we had pulled far away from the terminal.3. Upon Houston arrival, our plane has no place to "park" so we sit again - 1 hour.4. We missed connecting flights- all of them that would go out to Frankfurt that night we miss. There was no one to be found to help us through Lufthansa to see about new flights. Apparently, from experience ... The only way to find a Lufthansa rep is to go to Germany, their hub, where you can't find anything else. After 4.5 hours of chaos, working to find our bags and re-booking flights, we head to a hotel for the night. We get there and eat dinner at 10:00 pm.5. Hotel stay 1. Houston - we sleep a little restless ... But thankful we do sleep.We awake and pray that his mercies are indeed new each morning. 6. 4:10 the next day we depart for Frankfurt, but not before we sit on the Tarmac for an extra hour. This time, a coyote on the runway. I can't even make this up ... But we lift off and we now officially are headed international. So thankful!7. Flight goes well - praise! We arrive in Frankfurt at 8:55 am on the 17 - now one day after we were supposed to have arrived in Africa. My heart aches - I should have met "Z" by now. 8. We went to a hotel upon arrival as we had a 14 hour layover. Praise! We got our first 5 hours sleep in 2 days. Our time it is the middle of the night remember. 9. We arrive back at the airport at 4:30 pm for a 10:35 pm departure. Remember, we don't want to take any risks. We sit and enjoy a dinner - first real food since pizza in Houston. 10. Ethiopia finally opens the ticket counter at 8, we are excited and are one of the first in line. We soon discover we are nowhere in their booking system. We literally were never re-booked as we had both confirmed and had been told. It is way too confusing and long to explain, however, after complete panic, some tears on my part and one awesome German Lufthansa ticket lady arguing on our behalf, they finally issue us tickets. Joy and praises abound. Dakota declares that Jesus"s angels and the devils demons are fighting over us. She declares in truth that the Lord always wins.11. We get on the flight and get settled. The plane taxi's on to the runway. By this time it is after 10:45 pm. We sit for a while and a few minutes after 11:00 the captain comes on to say that we have passed the 11:00 pm air curfew in Germany by ONE - ONE - let me say that again so you can feel our pain - ONE minute. He says they now need the Gov't to give a release for us to take off.12. We WAIT. An hour goes by13. The captain informs us that we are denied release into the air space - we must deplane and go out in the morning. Words cannot describe the frustration and confusion.14. Ethiopia airlines shuffles 300 passengers off the plane and on to buses. We are transported to the closest airport - 30 minutes away. It is now 1:30am. We have also had the pleausure of seeing just how cold it is in Germany as we await our bus outside - in the cold.15. We arrive at a hotel and wait in a line with our new closest 300 friends for a room assignment. This finally happens around 2:30am. During this time I visit with the captain who tells us that this law justvwent into effect on November 1 .... And every night since, this has happened. Mental note - don't fly through Franfurt.16. We take naps ( well, the kids do) and get up for a pick up by the buses of 6:30 am. As we go downstairs, we are told the flight time is moved later - we will now leave the hotel at 8:30am. - and should depart at 10:40 am.17. We sit. Again. We haven't eaten in hours. We are exhausted. Did I mention that we are in Germany? Our TV experience to fill our time tells us so.18. Finally the buses come and we head back to the airport. We are shuffled like cattle back through security, go back through passport entry and finally board a plane at 10:30 am.19. We sit for two hours on that runway before we depart. At this point, I still couldn't believe we would actually see the "friendly skies". You know, we have learned that not only is it not over until the fat lady sings ... But it isn't over until your feet have touched the ground in your destination place. Anything- I mean, anything can happen! I am now sitting here on this last flight with 3 hours to go. I am sitting here and amazed that we have come through so much and still have our heads in tact. I am amazed that my two kids have traveled this hell without one complaint or tear. And well, I will be honest ... While I know you will tell me that it is "all in his timing" or that "he is sovereign", I will never understand this trip. I will never understand why he allowed us to miss two full days in Africa. Why his plan included missing two days with my son I have yet to meet. Why my kids were drug through the ringer and a living hell. Yes, we know it is true .... But unless you have lived this. Unless you have walked this out.... You will never know how hard a pill that is to swallow.So, we pray now we have guides on the other end who are as anxious to meet us at the airport as we are them. We pray that the rest of the trip can be far less eventful.Remember that I had called in some prayer warriors during my "help wanted" post. Well, you have officially been called into overtime! There is a battle in the heavenlies .... We you intercede?Oh did I mention the poor baby that was 2 rows ahead if us on our 10 hour flight from Houston to Frankfurt? She screamed - I mean screamed for 7 of the 10 hours. She had just finally fallen to sleep when the attendants came and took her bassinet away. That poor mama still had to get to India. Praying her next flight was more peaceful for everyone's sake. Sorry this is so long. Update, we have arrived at our guest house. Exhausted bit thankful.

houston, we have a problem!

2011-11-16T08:15:00.001-08:00

The eager beavers we are, we arrived 3 hours early for our flight in San Antonio going to Houston. We didn' t want issues or delay. Better to arrive early than late. Got through security, ate some lunch and waited to board. 1:00 arrived and we boarded. Two very eager and excited kids plus two anxious parents, We were off .... Or were we? Just as we were about to leave, the engines shut down and the captain came on "Houston has a problem, a storm is coming and they have grounded all flights". Uh oh. The captain said they would be deplaning alllll of us. It would be 2 hours at least. I knew then we were in for a haul. We only had 1.5 hours in Houston before our flight to Germany left. 3 hours in Frankfurt for our flight to Ethiopia. That sounds like funny math to me.We sat ... And then were boarded again 2 hours later. Here we went, de ja vu! Or would we? Once boarded a second time, the engines came on and we taxi'd away for lift off. Or would we? Here came the captain again ... Houston is once again grounded only this time, we were stuck ... Literally, in the back of the plane with no AC. Oh my gosh it was HOT! Seriously, we entered hell.From there, it was like a remake of Steve Martin's planes, trains and automobiles.1 we missed our flights2 we couldn't locate bags3 we ran from terminal to terminal with no help.4 we finally were directed to the right helper5 we now were stuck in Houston for a whole day6 spent $ for a cart that wouldn't dispense from the holder7 ten hours later, arrived in a hotel ... 3 hours from home. Um yes, we could have driven this 3 times by now.We now depart at 4:10 this afternoon. A full day later. It gets better.... We will have 13, yes 13 hour layover in Frankfurt and 2 days later than original planned, we will arrive in Addis. I think all in all we' ll be traveling around 67 hours from our original time we left. That is some serious travel hell. We are thankful for a hotel. No, they didn't comp or help. But thankful. Thankful that we WILL get there ... someday. Thankful our kids are doing great. thankful we got some sleep last night. Thankful that we have you praying. thankful his mercies are new each morning. Thankful that awaiting us is a beautiful little boy!PS sorry for typos... Doing this on an iPad. signing off from Houston and thankful that un a few long days and several planes later... That WILL say Addis Ababba!Love to all

9 and sharing her journey

2011-11-12T10:50:00.001-08:00

Aaaaah, it's quiet. The only sound in my house is the worship music I have on to settle my heart and direct my thoughts. How I successfully got 2 entire hours in my house ALONE on a Saturday could only be described as a sweet romance from the one who loves me best. He hears your prayers. Thank you!

I should be packing. I should be doing a lot of things. But the one thing that I couldn't get out of my head was the absolute sweetest and most precious writing that my 9 year old did this past week at school. Her teacher stopped me in the hall during conferences to let me know that Dakota talked all the time of her new brother, "Z" and her up and coming trip to meet him. She shared that Dakota had moved her to tears this week with something she had written. In fact, she (her teacher) read it to every single one of the 4th grade classes! That thrilled Dakota for sure! Could it be that my 9 year old, in her own way, is sharing the heart of her Father for the fatherless. Indeed, my beauty, even in her public school is getting to share the second Gospel ... Adoption ... in a very real and tangible way. What a better way to share the heart of adoption than allowing them to live a little of the journey with her through her writings and by giving them a window into the adventure as she talks all about it.

I will put a picture of her writing but just in case you can't read all the words, I will put them here.

The first one has 3 separate pictures and sentences. They read:

"Z's eyes searches frantically for us as soon as we left the orphanage. I didn't want to leave at all, but I knew I had to. When we left Z he was as scared as a wild horse when we left the orphanage"
Gulp. Yeah, that one brought me to my knees. She gets it ... even sweet Dakota knows how hard the good bye will be for all of us.

"Z's eyes were searching frantically as we pulled out toys for him out of my backpack. As soon as we gave him the toys, he was as happy as a piece of candy".
OK, so Candy doesn't really have feelings ... but I imagine if it did, I suspect it would be pretty darn happy.

"Z's face lit up like the fourth of July as soon as he stepped foot in America with his family. All his friends and family couldn't believe he was finally home. We were so happy!!!!!!!!! Z was as happy as a dog with a bone."
Hmmm, mmmm, baby girl, you are so right. That day will be better than the most beautiful fire work display. I love that you compared that day to 4th of July ... freedom, a new birth, a celebration, hope ... a holiday honoring the red/white and blue and a country with promise. How appropriate since Z will also become a citizen on that day. I am holding on to this one, Dakota ... and dreaming with you of the day to come! When we step off that plane after trip #2 .... YOU, my beautiful girl will be there to welcome home the brother you already met. He will be looking for you and I am certain, as happy as a dog with a bone because he has finally found you!

The next assignment she had drawn all the members of her family. The 6th and final box was "Z". She had to use descriptive words and sentences to describe our hair which were all HILARIOUS! "Z"s cracked me up though...

"Z"s hair is like curly string on a present. He is having a celebration on his head."

Yeah, o.k. that is too cute for words. What a perfect description of his beautiful curly locks. My boy is a constant party. This should be fun!

*note that I had to blurr each time Dakota used "Z"'s full name. We have to do this until he is officially "ours"*

update and a prayer

2011-11-09T15:00:00.000-08:00

We received "Z"'s monthly update for October last week. I've been so busy I hadn't had a chance to write about it. Every time we receive pictures or an update, I fall more and more in love with this precious boy that I have only met through pictures and a few short minutes of video. He is adorable!
He is described as happy, active, loveable and playful. It says he "loves to dance when he feels free or when adults are not supervising" HA. It also says he is "very active to touch things". Maliah officially has a partner in crime! It says he is not afraid of anything that the Nanny's know of. He is disciplined with time outs and responds well to that discipline. And lastly, when I asked what made him laugh it said "Playing with him, dancing and music". I have a LIVE WIRE!

I think I'll bask in those details a while. It's so much more enjoyable than the other gazillion things in my head is filled with.

While I can't share details of my son's case ... the Lord knows them. With that, I am asking for prayers for November 11 (the night of November 10). It's a big day in the life of our soon to be little boy. Please pray the Lord would work out every detail. He knows them ... it's his plan.

This time next week we'll be Ethiopia bound. It still feels unreal with the exception to the large piles of "Stuff" beginning to accumulate in corners of "Z"'s room. A bunch of "Stuff" that must travel. Pinch me.

Thank you is not enough for the prayers I have received this week. I was sent the most beautiful prayer from a true warrior last night - at just the right time, no doubt! I am putting it here ... because one day, when I look back at these journals, I want to see how the Lord answered all these prayers - and then some! He started, by bringing me amazing new friends! Thank you.

Father God,
Be their rock. Be their fortress. Be their deliver.
May Cristie and her entire family know that underneath the everlasting arms of an eternal God is their refuge and He will thrust out
the enemy from before them, and say "Destroy!" Then they shall dwell in safely in a land of flowing water, rivers, springs and an abundance of grain and blessings from Heaven.
Heavenly Father, rain on your dry lands. Rain where your living water is so desperately needed for life. Rain so that there is clean water and fresh water where there is none.
Father God, bless the Martini's with supernatural health, pockets of rest and open spaces on their calendar. Free them from all unnecessary errands, duties and obligations.
Help them discern what is distraction and grant them clarity of focus and keen minds.
Bless little "Z" with an awareness and stirring desire for them that upon being united, it will feel to all like "a longing fulfilled."
I ask right now on their behalf, that they receive abundant favor and that everything will pass through and keep moving without hiccup or delay. I ask that the purposes of heaven birthed in their hearts will be loosed in fullness over their family, their travels and "Z."
I ask that those things that would hinder, prevent, delay or cause anything to dishearten them, be bound in the name of Jesus.
Release your Angels LORD to secure the way, watch over the path, watch over them and "Z" and be ever present and near for the entirety of this journey.
Father, we ask that you give the people of the world, the type of compassion and love for your children that this family represents.
We tend to feel like we are so separated sometimes and detached from other countries and other crises, when it fact we couldn't
be more connected -- and we need to be connected to the larger Kingdom picture. Give us all a heart to pray for and help the
world. Give us Your eyes and ears to hear their cry and Your spirit to say, "I will," and Your feet and hands that "go..."
Bless sweet Maliah with courage and time that passes like sand through the hour glass - so quickly when we're not looking.
Bless Dakota and Canyon's hearts with the preparation needed for this glimpse into another culture and part of the world that they
will be able to respond to it and embrace it with the assuredness of Your presence and the absence of fear.
Give Cristie and Doug wisdom and discernment throughout the entire journey and the peace that You too are, "looking after the details."
May they feel increasingly filled with the fullness of Your spirit, the Word of Life and the power reserved for the pure in heart.
You are an awesome God, LORD.
Let all the little grievances, aggravations and irritations fade and fall away at the sound of Your great name: JESUS.
In sincere love, with thanksgiving for Your Son and this precious family and their purpose,
AMEN.

Crocs for Coffee - A WINNER!

2011-11-07T15:31:00.000-08:00

WE have a WINNER and 100 reasons to say THANK YOU!

We have officially wrapped up our Crocs for Coffee campaign.

Pause the music at the bottom of the website (scroll wayyy down)

THEN .. watch and see who wins!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU

to all of you who was so generous to donate crocs!!

I can't wait to deliver these and to meet many of the precious children who will receive these!

Truly AWESOME!

I am now trying to figure out how I'll pack the almost 100 pairs.

HEHE ... sorry Doug that we'll have little room for clothes.

To my winner; You get to choose between one of the 6 gift boxes from Ground to Cup Coffee.

Because inquiring minds want to know

2011-11-06T19:06:00.000-08:00

Recently, I have had a few of the same questions from several people so I thought I'd try and take a few minutes to answer a few of those;

1.) Who is "Z" ... and "Levi".
Yes, I have thoroughly confused you - my apologies! Welcome to my head. HAHA.
"Levi" is "Z". HUH? Well, simply put ... we named our son before we "knew" who he was. He didn't yet have a face, a birth date or a name. At the time, we were awaiting our "Referral" (a match to a child). After several weeks of the kids calling him "him" and "it" and "brother" and being totally confused, we decided as a family to name him. It also made a way for us to pray for him and to speak of him as a real child ... because he was, we just didn't know at the time WHICH child but we are certain, the Lord knew that "Z" was Levi ... and so it's all good. We chose the name Levi for many reasons to which you can find in some blog posts along the way. We held that name loosely knowing he would be older and he might not want to let go of his name. We also might love his name. So ... guess what? As destiny had it, we DID love his name. When we received his referral and his NAME, we loved it from the first moment and well, so did everyone whom we have been able to share his whole name with. With that, we have decided to name him "Z" Levi Martine. And well, something inside me thinks there is something very important about his name given by his birth Mother who had him for quite a long time.

2.) Um, so is "Z" really the name?
No. "Z" is what we call him on any public site as we are not allowed to share his name, picture and details of "who" he is until we pass court. His name BEGINS with a "Z".

3.) So, will you bring him home on this trip?
Unfortunately, No, we won't. On this trip we will go to court and stand before a judge and acknowledge that we want to adopt "Z". We will have to leave him there in Ethiopia and come home without him. Once we do pass court, our papers will be submitted by our agency to the US Embassy where we will await them to "Clear" his case and issue a visa interview date. Once we have secured that, we will go back to Ethiopia, have that interview with the Embassy in Addis Ababa and bring him home!

4.) What is the timeline or when do you expect him home?
Man that is a loaded question. First, we have to pass court on November 22. That's our first hurdle. It's not a small one either. 50% of cases fail court the first time. Why you ask? Well, that too is a loaded question. To pass court, a family must have an approval letter from MOWCYA (the ministry of woman's, children's and youth affairs). This letter is not written until the day of court for a family and is often missing from the file so no letter, no pass! Sometimes, the judge will also fail a family's case if a judge sees that they would like more information on a case. So, there are 2 scenarios. 1.) We pass on the 22 and come home knowing "Z" is now officially our son (and you get to officially know his name and his face). 2.) We fail court, come home and wait for the judge to issue our case a NEW court date. We don't return for subsequent court dates, because we have done our part. We simply await a passing one once all items are secured and cleared.
Once we do pass court, our case is then submitted to our embassy by our agency. This can take a few weeks as they have to go back to that same ministry, MOWCYA, for another document and gather a few other items. They said that usually takes around 2 weeks or so. But, Embassy paperwork can only be submitted on Wednesdays for our agency so they have to wait until the next available Wed. when they have all items in order. Once they do submit, the embassy has 10 days to review our case and give us an answer. Here we go again, they can 1.) find our case "Clearly Approvable" and we then proceed forth with "Embassy clearance" and receive that embassy interview date (where we travel back and bring him HOME) or 2.) Embassy may require more information, additional documentation, or their own investigation. This timeline is unknown. It can take only a few extra days or several more months.
SO ... obviously, we're praying for that "Clearly Approvable" case and what's behind DOOR 1 in all situations. Our agency says that typically, a family will travel back for their embassy date anytime between 5 and 12 weeks after passing court. That's the "average" for families that they see.

Do you see now why my stomach is in knots. Our journey ahead is a loaded one ... full of possible twists and turns. Thankfully, no matter what bump is in the road, we have the Lord paving a highway for us.

5.) Can you tell me his story? What made him an orphan?
Well, first of all ... I can't legally share any of those details until we pass court. But, also ... we will not be sharing much of "Z"s story as it is not OUR story to share. We can share with you that "Z"'s birth Mom was with him for quite some time. She is still alive and simply could no longer care for him. Someday, "Z" might want to share the details of his story ... but respectfully, we'll let him take that stage.

AND YES .... even this far into our journey, get this question LOTS!

6.) Why did you choose Ethiopia when their are so many children in the states?
I'm always amazed by this question. My first response would be ... because He called us there. He told us we had a son there. We listened and obeyed.
But, you are right .. in fact, their are 520,000 children in the foster care system in our country. That's a lot! TOO MANY! I hope and pray that their are families who will step up and empty that system. In fact, if you are one of those families interested ... I'd love to get you in touch with some awesome agencies who can help you in that endeavor. I am a HUGE supporter of foster/domestic adoption. We simply were not called to be that family(right now). No, after much prayer ... the Lord led us to the "ends of the earth". Just before Jesus left this earth, he told the disciples to be his witness in Jerusalem, and in all of Judea and Samaria, and to "the ends of the earth". (Acts 1). To be his witness, we are to tell those in all of those places of who he was and what he did. We are to be Jesus to them! Well, when I read about who Jesus was ... I see that he loved and cared for "the least of these". When no one else would, he sat with the leper, associated with prostitutes and the downcast of the society. Jesus loved the unlovable. I also see that he mandated us to care for the orphan. And of course, Jesus also told us to take the Gospel to the world because well, we all need to be adopted ... we were all once orphans!! He didn't say to stop in Judea when doing these things ... nope, he included the "ends of the earth" in his commands of these things.
Our family, through much prayer knows with great assurance that he called us to international adoption (and other means of caring for those internationally - sponsorship etc.). As a friend once said, just because ... he did.

Oh, I could bog you down with a gazillion statistics that validate our decision for us in our minds. Ethiopia is about twice the size of Texas with over 4.6 MILLION orphans. While I don't want to downplay the need in our country, that is about 9 times the number of orphans than here. In our country, EVERY child is given the opportunity of an education. In Ethiopia, that isn't the case. A family must pay for a child to attend school. This is a luxury and 50% of children will never attend school and of those who do, 88% will never attend secondary school. In our country, a child in the foster care system is given health care and medical insurance and .... drum roll ... a paid for college education. Look it up, it's true! Now, I will say, many don't utilize that but it's true - they have the chance!
In Ethiopia, the statistics is daunting on medical care. The doctor to children ratio is 1 to 24,000. And no, they are not being insured and provided with play therapy, speech therapy and doctors visits along the way. So, while I am your BIGGEST cheer leader if you are one of those families the Lord has called to Judea and Samaria, I hope you will be mine and cheer me on that we were called to "the ends of the earth".
And if that doesn't convince you, did you know all children are children of God's. He created them all and I am certain he would think that all of them should have families to love them and care for them! He doesn't see a border, why should we? My daughter was birthed in China. My son in Ethiopia. They are Chinese and Ethiopian. That doesn't define them though ... that's just where the Lord began their story.

My living room

2011-11-04T07:10:00.000-07:00

I probably owe you an apology. In fact, I am sure I do. You may not realize it though my husband would beg to differ but recently, I have been completely absorbed and on an emotional ride that I can't get off. This has left me grumpy, short tempered and distracted. That probably doesn't make for a good friend. For that, I am sorry.

One more part of the adoption journey. One more way the Lord allows you to experience the full labor of your child - hormones! In fact, I am certain, I have more tension, more anxiety, and more hormones raging than ever I did during either of my pregnancies.

I am a mess!

I have a gazillion things to do and yet, many moments of the day I stand in the middle of my living room motionless. Looking around I think, I don't know where to begin. What should I do next?

I have made a list, I have bought medicines, filled prescriptions and made more lists. My adorable husband recently asked this past Monday "when you get a chance, maybe you could write down things we need to take and do before we leave". As I sat at the table I ~~wanted to spit nails at him~~ casually answered "It's on Z's" floor. It's been done. grrrr .... what in the world does he think I do all day. Eat bon bons? No, silly ... just chocolate!

The reality is, some moments of the day I completely procrastinate by getting lost in ~~chocolate~~ in other things I ~~really can put off~~ need to do, in an attempt to divert my heart and my mind from the real things that must be done. 9:00 pm T.V. time has become my sanctuary. Oh yes, I do love getting lost in mindless TV. Pick up your chin, I still love Jesus even through that worldly hour. I asked, he has forgiven me.

Then this week, two separate blog posts were written by two separate amazing woman. I sat down and soaked each of them in because well, that's another way to procrastinate doing all the things I am SUPPOSED to be doing is loosing myself in "Someone else's thoughts".

Jen, a fellow AWAA adopting Momma is talented, witty, hilarious and funny. Every time she writes, I swear she has just climbed right out of my head. This post is such a raw and real reality of a family walking through adoption and the needs they have that it made me laugh and it isn't even funny. Sometimes they don't even know they have a need other than sleep. Most of the times ... in lieu of putting those thoughts into real words, they ~~eat chocolate~~ stand in the middle of their living room and wonder what to do next.
I loved this post. Since we are at that "before airport" part ... we still have quite a haul to go. How can you help? Honestly, I can't even organize my thoughts enough to pack our bags. That being said, if you ask, I might not have an answer. I might not have a "to do". I might not even reply because it might be embarrassing to say that I don't know. Remember, I am ~~eating chocolate~~ standing motionless in the living room. But, the fact that you asked might have just been what I needed to get my heart to the next step. To know that I am not standing their alone might be the very thing I need in that moment! Thank you.

Then came the second blog post. My absolutely dearest and most precious Cindy posted that. She's the gal in my life that gets to be the receiver of all the times I need to back up my dump truck and dump all my chocolate. Lucky her! She listens and well, the spirit often speaks through her. Imagine that, that the Lord really does use one another to refine, encourage and edify. Hmmmm, amazing. Last night, she sent me that post and told me that she had been writing that post for a while, but posted it yesterday with me in mind and that she was "Praying for us as the most intense part of the journey approaches". I began to weep. Remember, I am a mess! It doesn't take much. Suddenly, my living room didn't feel so lonely. Suddenly, my closest ally was no longer chocolate.

As I sat reading her post, the Lord gave me a pretty clear picture why I am stuck. As Cindy eloquently wrote "Maybe your emotions for your child-to-be are so heavy you can't move". Oh man, that is so true! My muscles are so sore. I cannot carry this weight any longer. Standing here, alone, I have become too weak to hold them in one more minute.

UGH, it's not pretty ... they are now oozing out into places and on to people they shouldn't. Sorry Doug.

Yes, I have packing lists and to do's ... but I am motionless, filled with anxiety, my stomach in knots or perhaps that indigestion from too much chocolate - darn that Halloween many moments of the day. I can't seem to be able to describe my feelings and while I have "done this before", this feels very new and very different than the journey with Maliah. Perhaps deep down, I am already aware at how hard this will be. The reality is, the second go around, there is no way to hide behind rose colored glasses. No, deep down ... I know that I won't survive without that village Jen spoke of and of course HIM! Perhaps deep down, I am so hopeful and yet so scared about our pending court date. Right now, I sit comfortably in a place of unknown. I don't know yet if "Z"'s case will be one of those "tricky" ones. As I watch families around me wait to pass court and are still sitting their wondering 120 days later or I pray for friends who have had to walk the journey of not clearing embassy and watching their files be investigated ... it is daunting and deep down I secretly pray, "Lord, don't let that be my journey". The reality is, I don't yet know if that will be our journey too and the thought of that road is overwhelming. Perhaps with those things in mind - I am frozen in fear. Yes, gasp, I admit it ... some moments I lack faith ... how fleshly! Perhaps deep down inside, their is a very real reality that our long awaited "Z" will not like us much at first, will care less if we are there and will really not understand how much my heart is bursting to take him home. That is sobering. Perhaps the very real chance that our wait will only grow longer and longer with each new Ethiopian adoption hurdle is discouraging. I don't know ... but what I do know is that if I put all these things together it = me + ~~chocolate~~ an empty living room = MOTIONLESS!

SO, if you read Jen's blog and you put up your hand to be a part of the village for an adopting family, I do know what I need today, this minute, right now. I need the calming peace of my savior. I need the prayers of a warrior to get to that point. I need the option to say "NO", I can't help you today ... I can't volunteer for the Kinder eye exam, I can't attend the birthday party, no - my child isn't doing the second "extra credit project in a week" and that doesn't mean we are awful parents, no - I'm not packaging your coffee you ordered - the sales girl might get to do it. GASP!, No, I can't attend the Board meeting, no, no, no. And when I say "no", I need you to smile, say "I understand" and really mean it. Oh, and I need you to tell me I look great ... even if I have eaten my weight in chocolate!

Hmmmm, this KitKat sure is good!

His encounter

2011-10-30T13:00:00.000-07:00

I felt a hand on my back and turned. There stood a beautiful woman. Looking at me was a precious face that I loved. A fried. A prayer warrior.
Looking intently into my eyes she asks "Are you o.k? This week, were you o.k."?

When this friend asks, you know she wants the real answer. Not the church answer. Not the casual "I'm great" answer and yet all the while you are dying to share the truth answer. This friend seeks answers. Not to her questions ... but to HIS! He gives her visions. He tells her to pray. She intercedes and yet often, she does not know why.

I smiled and said "I really am good. Aside from preparing to leave, we are good". Puzzled she looked at me. She doesn't follow my blog. We don't talk daily. But in all my life, I have never had a friend like her. A friend who can get to the core of who I am, to a depth I don't even understand ... in just minutes. Searching my eyes, she says "Wait .. you are leaving, your going to meet Levi. You know your days?". With a giggle, I tell her yes. We leave in 2 short weeks and my mind is spinning".

She has to walk away at this point as she leads worship. She is being summoned to the stage so our conversation gets cut short. But as she does, she looks back and says "On Tuesday, Gina called and she heard directly from the Lord to pray for you. She called. We prayed. She said doesn't even know you ... but she heard him say YOUR NAME.". I am not certain what is going on ... but the Lord dialed us in.

She walks away.

As I sit in worship, I began to weep. I remember back to last Monday (yes, just one day before). I had written my blog post "Help Wanted". I had summoned people to pray. Not just casually say "Oh, I'm praying for you" ... but WARRIORS. True and earnest friends committed to take my family, our journey and sit with it at his throne.

I don't know Gina. I don't even think I can recall her face as I type this. I know her name. I know, in my church ... she is a prayer WARRIOR! I know she is a part of the behind the scenes prayer team. I know she stands in the front and prays healing and intercessory over people who come forth for her gifts. I know she commits herself to the gift the Lord has given to her and through her - intercessory and prayer. I don't know Gina .. but I know this friend who speaks these words to me. She too, a Gina. She too, a warrior. This friend .. someone the Lord knows I trust.

I weep.

I didn't even have to ask ... the Lord had already began to gather his warriors. I spoke a whisper through a blog. I said it in the shower in the morning. I thought it a few times ... and without me even knowing, he answered.

I stood in church and wept. I stood there and heard him say "See, I told you I had that job covered. I told you I would fill that job".

I am honored.

"Your father knows what you need before you ask him. - Matthew 6:8"

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts". - Psalm 139:23-24

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we out to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will" - Romans 8:26-27.

Creativity among the Chaos

2011-10-29T17:50:00.000-07:00

I'm stiiiiiiiiiiiiiiilllllllllllll working on Z's room. A little at a time, it is coming to life. BUT, the sheets have been washed, the bed made and a special friend added to keep him company.

I've been trying to do a little crafting to add some decorative touches to his room. Ya know, it's not cheap adopting and it's really not cheap when you take all but one member of your 5 member family to Ethiopia for 2 weeks and 2 more has to return a very short time later. It's all worth it ... but it also leaves little for the "luxuries" of life. That being said, this is called creating a room on a budget. It's been fun though.

We already have a little touch of Ethiopia in the room. I found this on my trip in February and loved it.

The room from the door. I had to make "fuzzy" his name over his bed since we can't "OFFICIALLY" post it yet.

And while I am STILL decorating, I am mostly COLLECTING ... donations, medicines we will need, and things that must be packed. Z's room has become Ethiopia or Bust! It is "Creativity amongst the Chaos"!

Yes, the above are about 100 pairs of Crocs, two totes of clothes, a box of clothe diapers, 10 packs of wipes. That's just the beginning ... that MUST travel with us. Where is your clothes you ask? Hmmm, I haven't thought that far ahead and they are far less important.

Help Wanted

2011-10-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

Looking for a few Good people.

Job Description: Prayer Warrior! One who holds a commitment to pray our family through the rest of this journey.

Hours: The need begins now and while we are uncertain how long your job will be needed, I am pretty certain it will last long past the climax of the prayer time we are seeking. You may be asked to work overtime.

Starting day: October 24, 2011
Ending day: The day our "Z" steps off the plane and is safe and sound in my arms and on our soil!
If interested, we are sure that we will be looking for prayers warriors who can work overtime ... and past the ending day of this job. Future work is available.

Job skills: While I know many will say "I am praying for you", I need a few prayer warriors who will be committed to covering our family in a lengthy list of prayers. I need action. I need you! Some of these include:

Health before, during and after our trips. First trip - Nov. 15-26. Please pray we stay healthy throughout this time.
Preparation; that we would not look past the important items we need to bring and leave those less important at home. Prioritizing our needs vs. our wants. Getting LOTS of donations and all we need into 8 bags. Remembering every stitch of very important paperwork, camera's etc. Pray I can get my thought together. Lately, I feel like I am walking in circles.
Hearts: That our hearts would be prepared to meet our little boy. Doug, myself, Canyon (our 11 year old) and Dakota (our 9 year old) will be traveling. Pray he gives us insight and wisdom for our first moments and days with "Z".
Z: For attachment and bonding. This is already beginning - even through care packages and Nanny's preparing him. Please pray for his sweet heart as he makes a very difficult transition.
COURT! This is a big one. Our court date is Nov 22 which is the middle of the night on November 21 for you. We are looking for people who would ask the Lord to wake them in the night and would be interceding whenever you feel prompted during those 2 days for sure! You can start now ... . Looking for a PASSING court date is one of my biggest prayers.
Saying Goodbye: Please pray for the moment we have to leave our "Z". May I be strong enough to walk away from him. This already brings me to my knees. I know others have done this ... but I am not certain how.
EMBASSY - please pray our paperwork is submitted to Embassy in a timely manner and that our Embassy would find "Z"'s "Clearly Favorable" so we can quickly return to bring him HOME.
Maliah - our littlest will be home with Granny and PiPa. Please pray for her safety and that she would feel adored. We don't want to leave her out of this amazing time but know in wisdom, she'd be miserable on the trip. Give us insight to her heart and what she needs over the next few months.
Arrested hearts! I cannot wait to see my husband and my 2 children step off the plane and into the place that arrested my heart in Feb. Please pray that my children would have a sweet encounter with their savior and that his Gospel and his mandate to care for the orphan, widow and foreigner among them would become tangible! This will be LIFE changing for them!
As you feel led. There are a 100 things swirling in my head. I could never list all the things we need prayer for ... but if you are led to take this position, we know he'll prompt you to pray appropriately and as he leads. Be committed to listen.

Benefits: Priceless! Your prayers are the key to bringing home our son. Will you join us and be a vessel to make this happen. We would be so humbled and honored.

Any and All are welcome. The only criteria for skills is a relationship with my Savior. If he's yours too ... then join me. If you don't yet know him, but want to ... let me know. I'd love to introduce you!!

If interested, please contact me. Cristie - cmartine@satx.rr.com or leave me a comment here.

Top 10 must have!

2011-10-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

O.K., so gathering STUFF has commenced. Piles are beginning in little "Z"'s room for our upcoming trip. A packing list has been created. Teachers have been contacted. The principal has been informed of my kids absences. Life is being organized and re-arranged around our travel dates. Travel meetings scheduled with our agency. Plans are being made for our littlest. Conversations have begun with our two oldest kids about what they can expect to see, smell, hear and feel.

We are really going to meet our SON!

It's Monday and once again, I begin my week walking in circles. I have decided that I will have to live by a list for the next 29 days if I am to actually get myself on that plane with my head attached. So, todays list is my Top 10 packing items.

Prescriptions/Medicines - I am certain to be a walking pharmacy. You just never know what you will encounter in a 3rd world country. I would rather be prepared than sorry. Walgreens is going to love me! Their stocks will go up this week. Buy now!
Paperwork - I know their will be a LIST of things for our paperwork that we will need to bring. Make room - this will be the MOST important item, next to my head, and cannot be checked in the luggage. Seriously ... who knows if it will arrive. It has been the holy grail of my life for the past year. If the house goes up in flames and you can't find me ... check the office, I'm rescuing paper!
Donations - This is getting fun! "Z"'s room is over-flowing in Crocs, baby wipes, clothes, diapers and more. So much need but only so much room will make this a tough one. Good thing we get two trips.
Electronics/Camera's - You only meet your son once. I'd rather wear the same underwear 11 days in a row than to forget the items needed to document this unforgettable time.
Snacks/food - I can remember on my trip this past February (to Ethiopia), a few members of my team brought chocolate. SERIOUSLY ... that was like being given a piece of heaven. With 2 very American kids in tow, I am certain some familiar foods will be just what they need to get through some tough moments or days ... and I might just get to be hero of the day!!
"Z" play backpack - Oh my goodness, this is crazy fun. We bought "Z" his own backpack. We won't leave it with him (as all things become communal property), but we will fill it each day with some things to do and play together. When we come back to bring him home ... we will fill it with goodies just for him to help make the flights easier on the way HOME (we hope!)
Toilet Paper - Um, yeah, don't forget the Charmin! Travel TP is a MUST when flying abroad.
Ear plugs - You should hear the dogs bark and the Muslim's praying at 4:00 am. Without these, I will be a grumpy bear who was awakened from his hibernation. Throw in extra for good measure.
Dakota's blankie - SHHHH! Don't tell her I wrote that on a public place. Yes, my 9 year old still loves her special blanket. 11 days without it, would be 11 miserable days. If Dakota's happy, we're all happy.
Clothes - O.K., O.K., I suppose we should make room for some outfits for the 4 of us. For sure, one nicer one for the day of court. Maybe the judge will look on to a well polished American family and speak those magic words "He is Yours". OH WE PRAY!! We'll for sure have on clean underwear (see number 4) ... one extra at minimum.
For good measure ... don't forget the cash. You can't quite exchange VISA for burr.

So what else??? I do have a lengthy packing list here on my desk ... but ... are you a been there, done that friend? What is something you would have never thought to bring but so wished you had?? Let me know! Don't leave a girl hanging.

Oh, I know ... my silk pillowcase. The last time I asked that question, sweet Amy made the suggestion and every night as I laid my head down on my comfy pillow case - I thanked her!!

Life is his highway ...

2011-10-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

*Keep collecting those Crocs (see details here) ... and in the meantime, while you do pray without ceasing*

It seems recently that families awaiting to be cleared from the US Embassy (to which issues our children's VISA's to enter the country once adopted) has seen one delay after another. This past week, a precious friend got word that the case for her 2 children had been sent to the Embassy in Naorobi for further investigation? You can imagine the heartache and wonder of what this means? She has been waiting since early August for her clearance to bring them home and this was a step that we had not yet heard of before. We wept with her ... funny how quickly you feel the ache of your friends walking this journey. It's as though the Lord knits our hearts together along the road.

Friday afternoon we then received the information at the end of this post in an e-mail from our agency. A statement made by the U.S. Embassy.

Since then, my heart has ached and I have learned of more families and more cases walking this unknown journey. To make clear, no body wants a child to be adopted that isn't truly orphaned. It's the highest standard of our agency and unapologetically they will welcome delays if it means assuring that all things are done to the highest standards to ensure that.

But in the meantime, you can imagine the ache in the heart of a Mommy and Daddy who have gone to court, met their child and have finally heard the words they have longed to hear "He/She/they are YOURS". Now, made an official family by the courts, the final step is to simply bring them home.

So, in the past days I have been praying and what keeps coming to my mind is a vision of a mountain. Over and over, I see a mountain. It's not a small one either ... it's Everest. Folks, we have a HUGE mountain to climb (yes, that means praying without ceasing!)

I shared with my sweet kids that we indeed had many hurdles and "mountains" to climb before our "Z" came home. My 11 year old son reminded me as he looked boldly and confidently in my eyes "But we know the mountain MOVER".

Today, as I read the word, I was taken to Isaiah 49 in my reading. As I looked at verse 11, I read his words "I will turn all my MOUNTAINS into roads, and my highways will be raised up. Ironically, on March 3 2011, when we were seeing glitches with the process for MOWCYA, a girl in my church wrote down this same passage and slipped it to me during church. On that day, I hung this passage in my office as a reminder of his promise. Today, he took me back there in my own reading. Seriously! I love this - he was already laying his foundation of truth in me. But as I looked at the small notes, I noticed that for the word "highways" it re-directed me and told me to "See Isaiah 11:16". Jumping over to 11:16, I read; There will be a highway for the remnant of his people that is left from Assyria. Hmmm? O.K. Looking further I then see under my notes that the word "highway" in this verse actually means "the removal of obstacles and the building of a highway leading to Jerusalem.

Our God won't just move the mountains. He will literally turn them into roads and highways, building for us way to reach our destiny. Roads, highways ... the places we know that take us where we hope to be! And when he does, we can trust that our God will literally remove the obstacles in our paths that stand in our way so we can achieve the destination he has appointed for us.

AMEN!

As I read the words he wrote, I realize that we can walk boldly and confidently forward. Will you pray with me for the things you have read and the truth that we know. The Lord has appointed each child to his/her/their place into a family. Will you pray with me that he will build the highway that leads them HOME!
_________________________________________________________________________________

Information regarding processing of Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, Filed at the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa

In January, April and September, 2011, the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, the Office of Children’s Issues of the Department of State, and the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducted public meetings for adoption service providers (ASPs), adoptive parents, and other stakeholders to address concerns about the quality and completeness of inter-country adoption cases presented in Ethiopia. To ensure prompt adjudication and avoid concerns about possible malfeasance, it is important that I-600 petitions (Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative) and accompanying evidence be fully and carefully prepared before presentation to the Embassy.

Approximately 80% of I-600 petitions submitted to the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa in recent months were incomplete, contained inconsistencies or errors, or did not contain sufficient evidence to document the child as an orphan under U.S. law. In addition, the Embassy continues to see cases which involve abandoned children but do not include sufficient evidence to document the abandonment and/or evidence of appropriate efforts to locate a child’s birth family. The Embassy also has received evidence of unethical recruitment of children from birth relatives and cases involving known birth parents from whom parental rights have not been severed by the Ethiopian courts. In these cases, consular officers in Addis will need to take additional measures to confirm that a child meets the legal definition of orphan, which could delay processing by several months.

The Department of State and USCIS remind all families interested in adopting from Ethiopia that consular officers are required to forward any I-600 petition that is not “clearly approvable” to the USCIS Field Office in Nairobi for adjudication.

For families that already have an I-600 petition on file at the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, consular staff will advise them when a determination is made to approve the petition and the case may be scheduled for an immigrant visa interview in Addis Ababa, or when the petition is not “clearly approvable” and forwarded to USCIS Nairobi for adjudication. Upon receipt of a petition,” USCIS in Nairobi will notify the parents that the case has been received and issue any requests for additional evidence if necessary. Families can find more information about processing I-600 petitions referred to USCIS Nairobi at www.USCIS.gov under “Adoption/Country Information.”

It should be noted that, although this update specifically addresses I-600 petitions filed with the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, USCIS sees similar problems with I-600 petitions filed with the USCIS National Benefits Center (NBC). Families can contact NBC at NBC.Adoptions@dhs.gov .

If families have concerns about their adoption, we ask that they share this information with the Embassy, particularly if it involves possible fraud or misconduct specific to their cases. The Embassy takes all allegations of fraud or misconduct seriously.

The best way to contact the Embassy on issues related to adoption is by email at ConsAdoptionAddis@state.gov. Please include your name, your child's name, your adoption agency, the date of the adoption (month and year), and, if possible, the immigrant visa case number for your child's case (this number begins with the letters ADD followed by several numbers and can be found on any document sent to you by the National Visa Center). Please let us know if we have your permission to share concerns about your specific case with Ethiopian government officials and any other person or entity.

We strongly encourage you to register any complaint that you may have about an adoption agency in the following ways:

You may file a complaint with the state licensing authority where your adoption agency is licensed and conducts business. The Child Welfare Information Gateway, which is maintained by the Department of Health and Human Services, provides such a list at the link below: http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/reslist/rl_dsp.cfm?rs_id=15&rate_chno=AZ-0008E
You may also file a report with the state's Better Business Bureau. Following is the link to the Better Business Bureau's website where you may file a complaint on-line:https://odr.bbb.org/odrweb/public/getstarted.aspx
If your agency is a Hague-accredited adoption service provider, you may file a complaint on the Hague Complaint Registry located at the link below. While Ethiopia is not a Convention country, the ASP’ practice in a non-Convention country may impact its substantial compliance. http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/agency_accreditation/complaints.php

The U.S. Embassy continues to work with the Government of Ethiopia to ensure that appropriate safeguards exist to protect prospective adoptive children, their birth parents, and prospective adoptive parents.

We encourage prospective and adoptive parents to remain in contact with their adoption service provider to stay up-to-date on any information pertinent to their individual case. The Department will post relevant information on www.adoption.state.gov as we receive it.

To help clarify the notice the US Embassy issued, additional information can be viewed at the USCIS website here which further explains the current process of cases being forwarded to Nairobi when deemed “not clearly approvable.”

We will continue to notify your family of any new information provided.

Crocs for Coffee Campaign!!

2011-10-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

Listen up! We head out to Ethiopia on November 15th and it's our desire to bless the shoes off of the children we will meet and love on! Over and over we hear that one of the critical needs in our Transitional Home and in other orphanages we will visit is SHOES! SO ... I am working on a Croc Campaign and would LOVE for you to join us! Will you partner with us?

CROCS FOR COFFEE!

For every pair of Crocs (or similar - doesn't have to be name brand) you donate, I will add your name to a drawing for

(Please provide NEW Shoes - these sweet children seldom get anything NEW just for them)

1 Gift Box of Ground to Cup Coffee

(This can be private labeled with your families photo - 3 pounds of coffee in a Christmas Gift Box.

Not a coffee fan - we also have Hot Tea's, Specialty Drinks and Kidz Kreme Mixes (makes slushy frapps just for kids) we can do Gift Boxes with

Any size Crocs

Due by: November 3

E-mail me and I will send you my address for you to mail them if you are out of San Antonio
cmartine@satx.rr.com

Drawing will be held on November 3 - and pulled by our birthday girl, Maliah on that day!!

Dizzy

2011-10-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

I think I have been walking around in circles for the past 4 days. My brain feels like it's in a fog and trying to put a complete thought together yet alone accomplish anything each day has gone out the window. This must be what they call "Court Date Brain" hey, all the pregnant Momma's can blame their mishaps on hormones so why can't I?

We have officially gotten our tickets purchased - Thank you, Erica Shubin! That too would have gotten hairy without her wonderful assistance. WHEW! At least we have one step complete.

I now am trying to put my thoughts together on what to do next. HMMMMMM?????

I have made an observation of myself in the past few days. When I don't know where to get started I do the brainless thing ... laundry. Yep, the baskets are now EMPTY of dirty clothes. While my hubby is thrilled, my to do list isn't getting any shorter ... then again, what "to do" list? Putting that together would take thought and organization to which right now ... I seem to be lacking both. Lord help me!

But, I do know one of the things high on my list is collecting donations and I have used what brain cells I do have to make a list here again of items that are needed in the Transitional Home. As well, we will be in a few other orphanages and areas that we would like to bless the children and staff. So, if you feel inclined to donate items, please let me know. You can leave me a comment with your e-mail ... I won't publish it. Or you can e-mail me directly at cmartine@satx.rr.com. We are under a weight and bag limit so I will be doing lots of packing, re-packing, and packing again. What doesn't fit the first trip will return with us the 2cnd.

We'd love for you to join is in collecting. Even a few things adds up if we have several helping so anything would be a blessing!

In advance THANK YOU!

There are several items that the transition home is in need of for the older children: • Musical instruments
• Athletic clothing and shoes for soccer
• Christian videos or DVDs
• Swimsuits for boys and girls

Orphanage and Transitional Home General Donation Needs:

o Puzzles for young children
o Toy cars and trucks appropriate for toddler aged children
o Diaper rash ointment (A+D preferred)
o Children’s clothing (new or slightly used); Boys and Girls; sizes 0-8 years. Clothing needs include day clothes (especially pants), pajamas, underwear, and shoes.
o Diapers for up to 30 pounds
o Toys to stimulate babies such as colorful objects, rattles, etc. that are appropriate for babies up to 2 years
o Unscented baby wipes
o Powder formula with DHA/RHA
o A + D Original Ointment, Diaper Rash and All-Purpose Skincare Formula
o Hand Sanitizer
o Candles
o Enfamil or Similar Lactose free formula (*the following Generic Brands with identical nutritional value to Enfamil & Similac are also acceptable: Parents Choice formula from Wal-Mart, Target’s generic Formula, Kirkland formula from Costco)Medications/Medical Donation Needs** o Multivitamins
o Chewable multi-vitamin (2 years to 9 years)
o Adult multivitamin (9 years plus)
o Infant’s and Children’s Tylenol (acetaminophen)
o Plastic and Latex disposable gloves
o Baby nose saline spray
o Neosporin
o Mouth and nose masks
o Benadryl liquid/elixir
o Permetherin for scabies
o Lice kits
o Toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss

Inquiring Minds Want to know...

2011-10-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

YEE HAW, we received a monthly update with a bunch of pictures of our sweet boy yesterday afternoon. We had submitted our "5 questions" last month and got these answers with our update. We are still waiting on the most current height/weight and growth stuff. Apparently, they were running behind on that and we were told they'd send that to us when it arrives.

BUT ... because inquiring minds want to know. This is what we learned today about you, Little "Z".

1. What is Z's disposition and personality? Is he happy, cry often, compliant or strong
willed?

Z is happy most of the time but cries sometimes when he is inconvenienced.

2. What is Z daily schedule?

He wakes up around 6:30 in the morning, has breakfast at 7:00-7:30am. He plays until
8:30 am when he attends nursery class. At 10:30 he has a snack break and then returns to
class to play and learn. At noon he has lunch, and then will take a nap from 12:30-2:00pm.
At 2:00 he attends educational play and at 4pm will have snacks then will go back to play. At
6:00 pm he eats dinner and at 7:00 he will go to sleep.

3. What soothes Z when his is upset, or how does he like to be comforted?

He soothes when he is held close and given toys.

4. Does Z play with other children and have a special "playmate"?

He mostly play with all children but he is inclined to play with Bedilu.
*note* I love this one! Bedilu is the little boy of a friend that I met during this process. I love her and her sweet hubby so this ones makes me giggle. It also makes me a little sad ... Bedilu is awaiting Embassy Clearance and then will leave the TH. Please pray for my little guy, he'll have to say good-bye to a special friend soon. ;-(

5. Since he speaks Sidamo, is he able to communicate with the Nannies or is he learning Amharic
or English to communicate?

Now he is communicating in Amharic and he is also learning English in his nursery class.
(Hmmmm, wonder how that is working for him?)

Prayer for today! We have flights on hold but can't purchase them until we get approval from our agency. I am not so patiently awaiting that approval as the flights keep changing prices ... and I don't want to delay and get smacked in the face with a huge price increase. It happened yesterday to the first round we chose by the hundreds EACH ticket. SO ... if your praying, today we need approval and flight purchase to take place. THANK YOU!

We got a COURT DATE!

2011-10-03T07:09:00.000-07:00

On Friday morning the phone rang. Once again, when I least expect it ... the Lord sends a fun surprise! I saw the area code 703 and I was so unsuspecting (because I had just heard courts were not going to open until the 13th) that I didn't even think in my head "AWAA". In fact, I had no clue who it was.

As I answered and heard the sound of Kristin's voice, I still wondered. At first, I began to panic ... oh no ... something is wrong with "Z". But then, my panic turned to rejoicing when I heard her say "We have some exciting news for your family today".

So ... it is official. We have a COURT DATE! We had (admittedly) hoped for an earlier one, but at this point in the ball game, I am just thrilled to have a day to work towards and a day in my heart that I KNOW that I will be the one delivering my little guy a care package and holding him.

November 22cnd is our court date! You can start praying even today that we would pass court on that day. 50% of cases do not and we are praying for the Lord's favor and blessings over our case. Join us!

We are working, even as I type, to secure some dates of travel. We have to be there no later than the 19th and can add on days if we desire. OF COURSE we desire to do so! We are hoping to visit some friends, go back to some of the places and ministries I fell in love with in February AND hopefully, make the 5 hour trip south to Awassa to meet the children in the CarePoint (Warancha) we are helping to coordinate and sponsor.

Lots to do, lots to plan, lots to think about! It's Monday and I am honestly overwhelmed at even where to begin. I think their are 11 other families having my same Monday morning. 11 court dates were given out this past Friday. Seriously, that is worth rejoicing over.

Rejoice, again I say, Rejoice!

Connecting the dots

2011-09-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

Ah, little "Z", we just got an update on you. It looks as though your friends could have some additional entertainment playing connect the dots. CHICKENPOX!! BUMMER! I hope you heal quickly and that your Nanny's coat you in Camomile lotion to ward off the itchies! No fun.

Travel Companions

2011-09-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Look who "officially"gets to travel with us! Their long awaited passports have arrived safe and secure. They are ready to hit the "Friendly" skies. You can start praying now, though, for those dreaded long flights that they have mystified in their mind as "fun". You can also pray for the extra cash it'll take to get them ON those flights. All I know is I have TWO VERY excited kids who are READY to travel!

Little "Z", you are about to be blessed by your big brother and one of your big sisters.

They have joined me in the chant ... "OPEN, OPEN, OPEN"

Is their a discrepancy?

2011-09-27T07:06:00.000-07:00

It seems their is a discrepancy in the definition of the word "Encouraging". You see, each week our loving family coordinators at AWA send their families a "weekly encouragement" e-mail. It always contains a scripture. Yep, we can agree that that's encouraging. It always links us to the blog for more information. Informative .... hmmm ... that can be up for debate on encouraging dependent on the day, the month and the season of adoption with Ethiopia. It always has a picture of a precious kid. Who could possibly get more encouraging than that? End Goal - cute kid - encouraging! And lastly, it always contains a "weekly update or tip". Encouraging? Well, this week you decide.

Today's Weekly update said this:
We anticipate that Ethiopian courts will re-open on Wednesday, October 12^th. While it is possible this date may change, this is the information we have been given. If the date does change, we will let your family know. In past years, families have been issued court dates anywhere from a few days before court officially opens to a few weeks after the official opening date. The travel department will inform you as soon as they hear when your family has been given a court date.

Booo hoooo ... that's not "Encouraging"!! There seems to be a communication error. The 12th??? That feels like a decade from now and well, there isn't anything "encouraging" about that news ... even if it is candy coated in the "families have been issued court dates a few days before court officially opens" phrase because that too was spoiled by the broccoli thrown on top with a "to a few weeks AFTER their official opening" phrase. Nope, unless you had a typo and you meant to type "2" instead of "12" ... that's, what we phrase in this family as a, "What a bummer" e-mail.

Translation:

They aren't opening until the 12th, we haven't a CLUE when you'll get your appointment but when we do ... we'll let you know. Don't call us, we'll call you. Oh, and well ... be encouraged ... because "it's POSSIBLE this date could change and well, IF it does ... we'll let you know that then too. Have a great week!

BOOO HOOO! I just turned two, am throwing a tantrum and want a NEW weekly encouragement! I want a do over (kicking me feet, floundering like a fish, busting out that ugly 2 year old cry) HAHA!

*Disclaimer* I LOVE my agency, my family coordinator and their awesome weekly encouragements. I don't fault them for not knowing, I just find it comical sometimes what arrives in my in-box. No one (including them) has any control in this process... but we live in America and that SOOOO bothers us. Answers ... we need answers and a PLAN darnit! International adoption -it aint gonna happen, no matter what agency your with! I just have to find the humor amidst the journey and trials or else, I'll have no hair by the time "Z" comes home. Laughing commences. BWAHAHAHAHA!

Because he loves me ...

2011-09-17T11:24:00.000-07:00

In late 2010 (I can't remember the exact time), the Lord led me to a blog post by the way of a neighbor friends Facebook page. Seeing the word "orphan" in small print, I clicked the link to find a story of a family who had left all the comforts of "home" to follow the Lord's calling on their lives to serve the least of these in Ethiopia, Africa. Of course, I was intrigued and excited as I read each of their posts and perused their pictures. At the time, we were well on our way in our adoption of "Z" and I was preparing for my first trip to Ethiopia with a Visiting Orphans team that February. I was so excited to meet a family who was serving in the heart of the place that the Lord was drawing our own family.

The fingerprints of God continued to be all over the story as it was through a string of e-mails from myself and Jimmy that led us to learn that we were from the same city, his closest family friend was the now wife of my husband's first cousin, we shared a love and ministry for Somali Bantu's and of course a love for caring for the orphan and least of these. I quickly felt like these people I had never met were like family.

Through this connection, a few months later my VO team found ourselves with an invite to join them for the day in a Gov't orphanage where they were serving and loving many children. Because our itinerary was so full, I was less than hopeful that it would actually get to happen. But God doesn't work in coincidences and every detail is always HIS! Upon Ethiopian airlines canceling (at the last minute) all flights going out on the day our team was to depart, we soon found ourselves having one extra day in Ethiopia. This was perfect!! When news that we would be arriving one day sooner came, I was ecstatic and quickly began bombarding my team leaders and our ministry leaders with information on how we could "fill our time" and of the invite that Jimmy and Rachel so graciously shared. I saw the fingerprints of God.

Since then, I have enjoyed following their work through their ministry called "No Ordinary Love". I have also loved hearing of subsequent VO teams who have been able to join in their work and visit their orphanage too.

The biggest personal blessing came recently when Jimmy e-mailed to ask if I would like for them to go to the Transitional Home and visit our son. Would I??? Oh my! Of course! I can't even tell you how hard it is to know you have a son 7,000 miles away and not know on a daily bases what he is doing and if he is well. To say that one must have "trust" and "Faith" during these days is an understatement.

But alas, the Lord knew this and reminded me that I am not forgotten. "Z" is not forgotten.

So indeed, last Wednesday Jimmy and Rachel went and visited our little guy. They told me on Tuesday they'd be going in the next day so I began to pray for their visit and wait in excitement of anything they had to share. Late in the day Wednesday, an e-mail arrived and this is what Rachel shared:

"We loved being able to meet your son today!! He was in school and they happily stopped everything so we could meet your little boy. I have to say I was impressed with the classroom and the teachers. To me it seems AWA offers the best "transition" for the children. Anyway, back to Z. He is absolutely gorgeous and just as sweet, I love his smile. He had no idea who we were but we explained in very broken Amharic that we were friends with his anat ena abat (mom and dad)."

Attached to the e-mail was a few precious pictures. One of them was one of "Z" standing in front of a bookcase holding a book. Rachel pointed out that Jimmy had given the book to him to hold for the picture and then later noticed what it said "God Knows Everything".

What a sweet reminder! Indeed, the Lord does know EVERYTHING. He has indeed been writing the many pieces of this story, including the families and friends he'd bless us to meet along the way.

It is so much easier each day to place my trust in this proceess when I can see for myself His "Fingerprints". He doesn't owe me that ... but because he loves me so ... he allows me to see them anyways. How great is our God!

Look closely at the book "God Knows Everything"

"Z" and his special visitor, Mrs. Rachel

In case your "wondering".

2011-09-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Is time standing still or is it just me? I feel like we have had our referral for forever now. I stare at the most precious face on my refrigerator, on my cell phone, on my computer every day and just wonder.

I wonder if he's well. I wonder what he likes to play with. I wonder what his disposition is. I wonder if when it says "he speaks Sidamo", does that mean he can't communicate with the other kids/Nanny's that speak Amharic. I wonder if when he saw my picture on Jen's cell phone, that the Lord created a file in his little brain called "Mommy". Cuz you know, our God is big enough to do that! I wonder if he'll have a difficult transition. I wonder if he'll be scared when he meets us. I wonder if the plane ride home will be a hellish experience. I wonder when our day in court will be. I wonder how long the journey will take. I wonder if he'll make it home by Christmas. I wonder if he'll love his first CarePackage. I wonder if he'll wonder who in the world those "feh-rehn-jee's" (what they call white people or "foreigners" haha) are in the pictures we sent. I wonder if he and Maliah will be buddies. I wonder, I wonder, I wonder, I wonder.

The Lord knows I wonder and so a little at a time he sends me blessings along this journey so he can help take away a little wonder I suppose.

My precious friend, as I shared in a previous post, was in Rwanda/Ethiopia when we received our referral. What a blessing she was to visit our sweet boy and bring us photos and video ... ahhhh, did you hear that, VIDEO. I don't have to wonder what his voice sounds like ... I heard it and I LOVE it!!
Recently I posted our little guy's orphanage name on our agency's yahoo. Two fellow Mommy's e-mailed me personally with blessings! PICTURES of where our little "Z" spent many months and the other is mailing me VIDEO of the orphanage. I no longer will have to wonder what it looked like.
On Saturday, another precious family flies out to Ethiopia and will deliver our first CarePackage. Inside will be our photo album. I will no longer have to wonder if he knows he has a family. I have been assured that his Nanny will sit and share with him "who we are". Though, I wonder ... will he know what that means and will he likes what he sees so far?
I got to send off our first 5 "update questions". How blessed I am to have an amazing agency that will update us each month on our little boy. They will also let us know each week if he is sick etc. Narrowing down the many wonder's to the first five to ask was tough ... but here's what we decided.

What is "Z" disposition and personality? Is he happy, does he cry
often, compliant or strong willed?
What is Z's daily schedule?
What soothes Z when his is upset? Or "how does he like to
be comforted"?
Does Z play with other children and have a special "playmate"?
Since he speaks Sidamo, is he able to communicate with the
Nanny's or is he learning Amharic or English to communicate?

One thing you may wonder is why in the world I am now using "Z" to refer to "Levi". Have I totally confused you? Well, wonder no more.

The Lord gave us the name "Levi". We know this with certainty that that was to be a portion of his name. We just never knew, what portion. When our referral arrived, both Doug and I really liked his given name. We began to play around with it ... Levi "Z" Martine or "Z" Levi Martine. yeah, it totally isn't real helpful that I can't actually tell you what "Z" stands for but you'll have to just trust me as I am not allowed to share it on a public site until we pass court. The kids and I kept calling him "Levi" but I noticed that Doug would call him "Z". When we had to fill out some paperwork for our travel coordinator, I put Levi "Z" Martine as his name to be. Doug looked at me and said that he wanted it to be "Z" Levi Martine. I told him that that was still up for debate. But, one day, he looked at me and finally said "I don't know what you are going to call him, but I'm calling him "Z". Hmmmm??? Well, O.K. then, as my spiritual leader, the leader of our family and one who seldom has a definitive position or opinion on things such as decorating, names, etc., it looks as though our Daddy has spoken ... and we no longer need to "Debate" or "wonder".

So one day I will share his full name ... but until then, when you see me call him "Z", it's because indeed, his official name will someday be "Z" Levi Martine ... in case you were wondering.

And I LOVE IT! (Daddy always knows best though don't tell him I admitted it)

What now? What you can do.

2011-08-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

SO, we've had our referral of sweet little "Z" for 19 days now not that I'm counting or anything. Many have asked when will he come home and what is next so I thought I'd give you the run down as I know it. Anything can happen the enemy hates adoption and hates that orphans are being loved and cared for and brought into forever homes. PRAY!

Right now we await the Ethiopian Courts to open back up after being closed for the rainy season. That is scheduled for the first week of October or so, but who really knows, it's Africa and we are only on a need to know basis and well frankly, it's really a vacation because um, Ethiopia is like in a 60 year drought so we really shouldn't call it the "Rainy Season".

Our Family Coordinator said that they may still issue court dates before it opens but that since our referral just arrived, she doesn't expect us to hear anything for our case until after Court opens. You are welcome to pray that we do in fact hear something because it sure would aid in planning.

Once we receive a court date, we will arrange our travels and go to Ethiopia. Trip #1. We will be bringing our two oldest kids ~~because we are somewhat on the crazy side~~ because we have decided that to truly understand why we do what we do in the world of adoption/orphan care, we need to show them and let them experience it. This will ~~cost loads of extra money~~ come as a sacrifice, however, we feel it will be so worth it!

During trip #1, we will meet little "Z" and spend time with him. We will also go before the judge and let him know that indeed, we want him to join our family of course we do, when you see his precious face you'll be wishing you were the one standing in front of that judge. Darn he is CUTE! We pray and so can you, that we pass court the first time (50% do not). If we don't, that will be another delay as we wait for subsequent court dates and for our agency to gather any information that MOWCYA (the ministry of woman's, children's and youth affairs) is missing. We will not return for those court dates should they be needed. We will come home without "Z" you can start praying now, I'm not sure how they will physically get me on that plane when I'm fighting to stay with him.

Once we pass court, which we pray is the moment we stand before the judge, we then come home and wait for our agency to submit all our paperwork to the US Embassy for clearance/Visa etc. This usually takes 4-6 weeks though recently, we are seeing this take longer. You can also start praying they'd pick up that pace, can you imagine waiting even a day with your child being on the other side of the world? Once we are cleared, we go to Ethiopia again and this time we return with our precious boy!! Go ahead and cheer, you know you want to! Yes, we do welcome large airport welcome home parties ... but we will address in a future post some rules about how we will go about transitioning our little guy. In other wards, don't come and pick him up ... you are a white person, he will be in a foreign land, he will have left everything he knows, you will speak a weird language, smell weird and be all together frightening to him. IE; you can smile and cheer and welcome, but as I tell my little girl, only with your eyes, not with your hands for a while.

So what do we do now? We wait, we pray for our little guy, we pray for these details even now and we trust. And well, because I am a planner and I need something to do because, hello, I'm only 19 days into this wait and I feel like a crazy woman, we also begin gathering donations that we will bring. You can help too. There are many things needed in the transitional home and orphanages. Let me know if you can gather some of these things. I can come and pick them up and together, we can bless the socks off of some precious children!

We will be bringing lots of extra bags and very little clothing on our trips so we can bring these things that right now are needed in our two transitional homes. This is what we have been notified as of now is really needed.

There are several items that the transition home is in need of for the older children: • Musical instruments
• Athletic clothing and shoes for soccer
• Christian videos or DVDs
• Swimsuits for boys and girls -this one interests me, I've been to Ethiopia, where in the world are they swimming and please tell me they are also asking for life jackets. ;-)

Orphanage and Transitional Home General Donation Needs: o Puzzles for young children
o Toy cars and trucks appropriate for toddler aged children
o Diaper rash ointment (A+D preferred)
o Children’s clothing (new or slightly used); Boys and Girls; sizes 0-8 years. Clothing needs include day clothes (especially pants), pajamas, underwear, and shoes.
o Diapers for up to 30 pounds
o Toys to stimulate babies such as colorful objects, rattles, etc. that are appropriate for babies up to 2 years
o Unscented baby wipes
o Powder formula with DHA/RHA
o A + D Original Ointment, Diaper Rash and All-Purpose Skincare Formula
o Hand Sanitizer
o Candles
o Enfamil or Similar Lactose free formula (*the following Generic Brands with identical nutritional value to Enfamil & Similac are also acceptable: Parents Choice formula from Wal-Mart, Target’s generic Formula, Kirkland formula from Costco)
Medications/Medical Donation Needs** o Multivitamins
o Chewable multi-vitamin (2 years to 9 years)
o Adult multivitamin (9 years plus)
o Infant’s and Children’s Tylenol (acetaminophen)
o Plastic and Latex disposable gloves
o Baby nose saline spray
o Neosporin
o Mouth and nose masks
o Benadryl liquid/elixir
o Permetherin for scabies
o Lice kits
o Toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss

Back to school Celebration Dinner

2011-08-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe it's already that time of year. My kids headed off this morning for their "First days". Canyon is in 5th, Dakota in 4th and my baby in Kinder. No way! Where has time gone?

As we prepared for another school year, we did so with a kick off Celebration Dinner.

On the menu; Swiss Cheese Wine Chicken, Mandarin Orange Salad, Caesar Salad, Hershey Pie and Sparkling Grape Juice.

We spent time talking about our scripture for the year; "Be Completely humble and gentle, be patient, bearing with one another in love". Ephesians 4:2. We chose this verse for our year for many reasons. First, this is the example we hope our children will be as they interact in school and with their peers. Secondly, we are working on these attributes in our own home. Yes, we'll admit, on many days and on many moments, we lack some of these things with each other; humility, patience and speaking in love. Gasp, I know ... but it is true. Lastly, knowing that we will soon add a brother to our home, we also know that we will be working to exercise these things even more so as he transitions into being one of the family.

Next, we focused on praying for our teachers. Between my 3 kids; they will have 10 teachers this year (not counting the GT teacher, and specials). That's a lot of influence which brings a lot of reasons to pray.
"As for me, far be it from me, that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you ..." 1 Samuel: 12:23. Indeed, we are committed to pray for our teachers each and every day by name.

The kids also thought through and wrote out some goals for this year. I loved this part and I loved seeing some of the things that they had in mind and saw as important. What a window into their hearts. Boy, I like what I saw.

Lastly, our table would not have been complete without our 6th place setting. Indeed, this year we included a place for Levi "Z". We are ready to see him fill that seat and so thankful for the Lord for showing us just who it is we have been praying for this entire past year. We are already in love and excited that this will be the year He will complete our family.

Thank you to a friend, Jennifer Conant, for inspiring me to take the time out to enjoy such a special night. We have added this one to our "Traditions" list ... it was a HIT!

Extravagant Love

2011-08-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

"Perfectly perfect! Sweet tempered, smiley, absolutely adorable, healthy and solid". These are the blessed words that came through on a text to me today about my SON! My sweet friend, Jennifer Verme, who by God's design was in Rwanda and heading into Ethiopia with a team from Visiting Orphans when we got our referral, graciously went out of her way to contact me, work out all the details to get my photo release and then spent time with our little boy in his transitional home. Today, my heart is full! As I read her words, I wept. How do you ever put into words to someone how much it means to know they loved and held your child when your arms physically couldn't be there to do it yourself? How do you re-pay that? You don't (well, actually you pray like the wind that this same family gets THEIR referral of their little girl so you can do the same on one of your trips!)

As I sat processing her text and my joy, it hit me and I began to sob! It's why he calls us in James 1:27 to "Visit" the orphans. It's why I went to Ethiopia myself, serve on the Visiting Orphans Board of Directors and with passion try to get others to do the same ... Because he loved us first and they are HIS children that he longs for someone to love! How can you say no?

As a believer, I am often struck with the reality that the God I serve sent his One and Only son to this earth and then because of my sin, sent him to die on a cross for me! Processing the reality of that gift is on many days far past the reality of what my human mind can fathom. In my flesh, I work to try and figure out how I can "pay that back", only the Lord doesn't want anything in return ... but one thing, our hearts! He wants us to love him and love him extravagantly! Today I got it!

When I read the words from my friend, my heart was overwhelmed that my child was loved! How much more so, then, must the Lord feel when he sees us doing the same for his children! The love we have for Levi is nothing in comparison to the Lord's love for him and 163 million just like him, his fatherless. What must he feel when he sees us loving his children? What must he feel when he sees us caring for them?

I have thought for so long that we care for the orphan and the least of these because first, He tells us to do so (obedience) - "Pure Religion is this; care (visit) the orphans and the widows in their distress and keep oneself polluted from the world" James 1:27. Living a life to please the Lord is also living in obedience. It is doing what he says and well, frankly, he says to care for the orphans. Period.

But, after going on a Visiting Orphans trip myself, I soon saw a whole new side why the Lord might call us to go. When we do, it is us that are changed. We see what he sees and frankly, we cannot walk away and remain blind anymore to the realities of this world. When we visit the orphans, he wrecks our hearts and we are prompted to do more. What a great salesman he is, huh? He knows by getting us there, the rest is history. Go and visit he says ... because then I can fully get your attention and your heart!

But today, I felt something totally different. As I sat reading those words I realized that Jennifer was loving my son for me! My heart was full and I felt so completely and extravagantly loved by her gift of doing so. Extravagantly!!! Is this exactly how I want my Lord to feel?
All the Lord wants from me is my heart and all I want to do for him in return for all he has done for me is to love him extravagantly. I can do this! We can do this!! When we go and visit his children and are his hands to them, we lavish our love on Him by loving them! When we hold his children, sponsor his children and adopt his children, his heart is FULL and he feels completely and extravagantly loved!

I don't know about you, but that is exactly how I want to love the Lord who blesses me!

If thats you too, then let me help you get started with just 3 of the many ways you can do it!

1.) Sponsor a child! For $34/month, you can give a child in Awassa, Ethiopia the Hope of 2 meals a day, an education, medical/dental care and discipleship. I have 80, yes, 80 reasons why you should consider this. Please contact me if you are interested (cmartine@satx.rr.com). I can get you set up and hey ... don't worry, we will also be taking in teams to love our children there so you can fulfill that "GO"
portion too! The children in this CarePoint are counting on the Hope that you will think they are worth it.

2.) GO GO GO! I love Visiting Orphans and you will too! Check out all their trips and find one that is calling you. Go and love extravagantly his children and in return, love him! Have any questions about trips or the ministry, I'm happy to answer those as well. Want to consider a spring trip ... see above. The trip to the CarePoint in Awassa will be sponsored/organize through Visiting Orphans. Details coming soon ... but my adorable hubby will be one of your team leaders.

3.) Adopt! I'd love to chat with you about adoption too! If you are called on this journey, the Lord will make straight your paths. Don't let fear of the unknown stand in the way ... see that remark on "obedience". If he calls, obey him. You will be BLESSED! I serve on the Board for our adoption agency and we are on our 2cnd adoption through them. With that said, I can speak to how amazing America World is. Go check them out!

O.K. what are you waiting on! Go love Him extravagantly!

Breathless

2011-08-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath way"

August 11, 2011

Breathless (pun intended)

ACT 1

Sitting on the table in the middle of the doctor's office, I chatted with the overly gabby doctor about everything from my awful bronchitis infection, the fact that I felt completely breathless, to Ethiopia, adoption and injera. To be honest, I was completely exhausted and wiped out from 3 days in "China" (camp that is) and just wanted to get on with it but Mr. friendly must have been working on his gregarious bedside manners that afternoon. As he gabbed away a cell phone rings. Looking down at my purse sitting next to me, I notice that my phone is in just enough visible sight to see 3 important numbers: 703!!

It's a darn good thing in that moment that Mr. Friendly had already taken my pulse, heart rate and listened to my chest because I am certain that within about 2 seconds it shot off the charts from "normal" to completely breathless!! OH MY GOSH, was this what I thought it was? My head began to race, my heart began to pound and every other word out of Mr. Friendly's mouth became mud.

Trying to remain calm, I waited until he left the room and then grabbed my phone. Yep, a voicemail. Trying to compose myself, I reminded myself that 3 times in the past few months I had received calls from the infamous "703", only to discover that it wasn't "programming staff" (my Family Coordinator) and my long awaited "Call", but Corporate Staff (I am on the Board of Directors and do Associate work) with conversations that had nothing to do with our journey. Maybe this was just another one of those calls.

(scene - take 2) pulling up voicemail, I listen:

"Hi Cristie, this is Jennifer Allen at AWAA, please give me a call when you get this. I will be stepping into a programming meeting in a few minutes so if you don't get me, I will get in touch with you before the end of today"

My heart began to race wildly and I texted Doug and my bestie to ask them to pray ... "703" had called, I had a voicemail ... this could be it!

ACT II

Racing to my car I think to myself "stepping into a meeting in a few minutes, oh my gosh ... I cannot wait, I cannot miss her". Dialing back 703 my stomach does flip flops and I cross my fingers (and toes!).

Jennifer answers and within moments tells me that she is calling because she indeed has a REFERRAL ... today is our day!! I am certain I stopped breathing! She asks if I want to try and conference Doug in so we can be on the line together to hear our news. I agree and gulp back my tears and embrace for the news we had anxiously be waiting to hear ...

ACT III

"O.K, we're all 3 on the line. Are you guys ready". I hear Doug giggle and say "yes", but before she talks I squeeze in ... through my tears and shaking voice ... "Doug, this is it ... this is our day!" Jennifer Giggles and THEN begins to tell us of the little boy, OUR SON, that we had been longing to know all about.

I franticly take notes (on the back of my prescription ... good grief!) while my mind raced and time seem to stand still. I remember her telling us that she was e-mailing us right then all his information and pictures. I remember faintly some instructions of what we needed to do to accept or reject his referral ... but honestly, all the rest is mud. Something about no oxygen to the brain seems to cause a feeling of euphoria and shock. My mind was swimming and all I could think was ... LOAD e-mail LOAD!! Through the grace of God, I had my iPad IN THE CAR that afternoon because that very morning I had used it to teach a portion of my lesson at China Camp. I was armed ... and ready ... to see his face!!

ACT IIII

(scene setting: the driveway of my parents home - hiding out in my car and on the phone with my bestie!)

FINALLY, I see his face!
I am breathless

He is ADORABLE! His eyes are beautiful! His smile is radiant! He is so so healthy looking. His skin and complexion just silky smooth. He looks happy, content and frankly, like he's totally ready to jump on his Daddy and brother to wrestle in the yard or play a game of football. He just FITS! (Oh and for those curious .. He is 3.5 years and I came closest to "the bet")

After 3 hours of keeping my news a secret from my kids and 3 hours of trying to track everyone down (who was, of course, in 4 different places), we had the joy of sharing our great news with 2 adoring big sisters and one excited brother at 5:30 last night. It was a fun moment and yet, very much a surreal moment too. It still is sinking in that we have a son. I have spent the day running his medical information to our pediatricians, staring at his face, reading through all our documents, staring at his face, reading all sorts of awesome congratulation wishes on FB, staring at his face, and learning his story and oh yeah, staring at his face!

So what now, what's next? Well, first off, we will send back his acceptance on Monday and the clock will then begin for a court date. Of course, courts are officially CLOSED right now so we have no clue what that means for our timeframe. They open again in the first week of October or so. Hopefully, we'll get in on the line for one of those first appointments they give after they open for business and start setting those dates. Maybe October/early November??? Only the Lord knows! But I trust him!

I can tell you, as I read his story that the Lord has completely and divinely paved a way through his timing (Levi's) and ours to be together. I am AWED by some key dates in his life and how they intersect with ours. With all that knowledge, I am armed and confident that the Lord knows just how he'll finish

THIS GREAT STORY

PS I can't share publicly his picture, his name or his birth date until he is "officially" ours. I know, I know, that totally stinks! You'll just have to trust me on this one; he is worth the wait!
But, hmmm, maybe a sneak peak will buy you some time?

Another one bites the dust ...

2011-08-10T05:53:00.000-07:00

That's right ... another one down, and another one down and another ones bites the dust (sing it with me!)

So, it's been 8 months since our paperwork arrived in Ethiopia AND it's been a year (since July 29th) since our journey began. The question is, will the 8 ball be the lucky ball?

Until further notice ...

2011-08-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year ... the Ethiopian Courts have officially CLOSED! As of Monday, there will be no one there ... no court cases, no court decrees .. Nada! No Movement!!

I am told this is for the "rainy season". Sounds like good reason enough. I've been to Ethiopia and I can imagine that getting around Africa in the rainy season could be a difficult task. But, then again, I think Ethiopia is in the worst drought in over 60 years. ????? Is this irony???

During this time, our agency said that they will still issue referrals if they are ready. Of course, because families won't be passing court and getting embassy clearances, it also means that the transitional home won't be having many "transitions". Less transitions = less possibility of new children transitioning in = less chance we'll get that call. *sigh*

STILL ... It *could* happen, BUT ... if it does, we'll WAIT again ... because the COURT IS CLOSED!

The court is estimated to be closed until early October. I know, I know, 2 entire months of nothingness. BLAH! This is like water torture.

I did hear that MOWCYA (the Ministry of Woman's, Children's and Youth Affairs) is still open during court closures so hopefully they will take this time to play catch up on approval letters for the poor families who had gone to court but never passed before the closure because of that missing letter. Oh man, pray for those families. That. is. hard. I pray on day one of opening, their is a flood of good news several of my friends who are now STUCK. WITHOUT. THEIR. KIDS!!

So, I guess until October, the offices of the court are out. I wonder what they are doing?

The weight of the world on my shoulders

2011-08-04T20:40:00.000-07:00

I knew there would be a day where all the things I read in the adoption books on loss and grief would come in handy. As I closed out the chapter I was reading on Friday night on those very subjects, I prepared my heart and prayed "Dear Jesus, whatever it is that my little boy will have gone through before he is in my arms, allow him the ability to trust us enough to truly and openly grieve his loss".

Little did I know how quickly I would draw from those chapters. Little did I know just who the Lord would use that prayer for.

Saturday morning was a busy one. Doug and the big kids were off early to work a Ground to Cup event and Maliah and I began to busy ourselves with getting ready to run a few Saturday errands. Shooing Maliah off to go put on her clothes, I came in to find her sitting, half dressed and not at all ready for our day, on her bedroom floor. She was wearing something, however, that did catch my attention. She was wearing a sadness I had never before seen.

"Maliah what's wrong baby, is something wrong?"

Looking up from where she sat, her eyes could have told a story of their own. Through her tears, she spoke;

"I miss my birf Mommy, but I don't even know who she is"

GULP! Did I hear her just right. I mean, we've had lots of conversations about her "birth Mommy" and that God grew her in another Mommy's tummy. But this, this wasn't quite the conversation I was prepared for ... or at least one I thought at 5.5 years old we'd be having. Was she really expressing such a loss? Such a grief?

Sitting down on the floor, I looked Maliah right into her big, tear filled eyes.

Oh, sweet Maliah, I am so sorry you feel so sad. I am so so sorry that you miss your birth Mommy"

Maliah, crying uncontrollably by this point , "I'm sad because I miss her. I want my birf Mommy. I want to know her. Why don't I know her?"

Choking back my own tears and swallowing deep the lump that begins to fill my throat, I muddle through a answer ...

"Baby, I don't know who your birf Mommy is, but Jesus does and we can pray for her. I wish I knew her. And Maliah, thank you for sharing with me your sadness for her. Mommy wishes I could take it away for you. Do you want to pray together for her?"

Maliah sits in my arms and sobs. Not a cry that is attention seeking (as she can do at times). Not a cry that says "I'm tired". No, this time it's a cry from the deepest part of her being. This time she sobs like I have never seen. Tears filled my shirt as my little girl curled up on my lap and wept. I believe in that moment. He wept too.

This was it. All these days and nights I had been preparing my heart and my head full of the knowledge I needed of what to do for my little boy as he experienced (es) "loss and grief" upon his arrival home. But all the while, the Lord was preparing me too for this moment. For the moment that he knew would be right around the corner. The moment he knew, that I didn't know, would come so soon. The moment that would stop my morning and everything I had planned to do ... to do one thing ... validate my little GIRL'S broken heart!

I didn't realize this day would come so soon. I don't think I had fathomed that my little girl at such a young age would have the ability to describe with words a great sadness that would overtake her. I am actually not sure how common that is ... to be able to link those concepts together at such a young age. I do believe, that part of the reason Maliah could do so was because for as long as she's been home we have not only celebrated her adoption, but shared little by little the truth of her story with her. It's not a secret we keep from her. It's her story. She knows she has a "birf" Mommy and she knows that she didn't grow in my belly like her big brother and big sister did. She talks of China, coming home on a plane and of how Jesus made her and gave her to us. She knows these things with joy .. the joy of her redemption!

But on Saturday, July 30th, my little girl began to feel the weight of that story. On Saturday, July 30th, my little girl showed me the true weight of her story. And in those moments allowed me to hold her, love her and validate those feelings as she wept. In those moments she allowed me to carry her weight ... for even just a while ... on my shoulders. It. was. heavy.

I am humbled. I am honored.

*The next day, I would learn that a massive storm was heading towards an area of China called "Hainan" on the very day my little girl felt such a great sadness and intensity to pray. This area just happens to be directly next to (virtually attached) to Maliah's birth city, Xuwen. On the very Saturday that my girl felt prompted to pray for her "Birf" Mommy, 75,000 people were being evacuated from the area as their lives were in danger.
Perhaps the Chinese Proverb "The Red Thread" isn't so far off after all ...

"An invisible red thread connects those destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstances. The thread may stretch or tangle, but never break."

A reason to "Pamper" Yourself!!

2011-08-01T07:05:00.000-07:00

Hey friends

Today we get to kick off a fun and awesome fundraiser through a sweet friend of mine, Carmen Druckmiller. Carmen is a fellow adopting Mommy with America World who brought home to precious boys from Ethiopia just months ago. She knows and understands the need for fundraising and graciously provides a fun way to do a little of that through her Pampered Chef business. THANK YOU, CARMEN!!

SO ... starting today, August 1 - September 4th, she is helping me host a online "Pampered Chef" show.
You can click right here and get to the online catalogue to shop. Make sure you put "Cristie" in the hostess section and at the end, Carmen will be giving back a percentage of her sales to US! So awesome and so easy, right!!

So shop away. Think about all those Christmas presents you have to buy in just a few short months and starting marking them off your list now. Need some new and fun ways to make your nightly cooking easier ... browse away ... Pampered Chef has it!! We'll be so blessed by your sale as will you when you use your new products!

What are you waiting for? Go on and get your shopping on!

*PS - we will using the funds we raise here to help purchase flights/in country travel for TWO trips to Ethiopia to bring home our Levi.*

One down, one to go!

2011-07-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

My new motto has been "If I build it, he will come". In doing so, we had to start by ~~kicking out~~ moving out, two precious girls from the room Levi would go into and move them into our "play room".
Before doing that though, we had to make our play room fit for two princesses.

We've made progress ... a little at a time ... in between mission trips to Ethiopia, an entire season of select baseball, gymnastics, horse lessons, tbarm camps, chef's camps, dance recitals, homework, running two business's and well ... life. You get the picture. I suppose I should have initiated this process some time ago. Perhaps it's my fault we're still waiting. The Lord must have known that we are dreadfully

SLOW!

So, this week, I officially started Levi's painting in his room (and it looks oh, so cute!) But as I was doing so, I realized that I never posted the "after's" of our other project NOW COMPLETE!

Here it is before:
Once just a space to play ... in the SIMPLEST form!

Now a bedroom fit for two precious girls!

Thank you Daddy for 2 closets, one door, bookshelves and fun paint!

Exciting Adventures Ahead ...

2011-07-26T09:16:00.001-07:00

O.K. all my orphan loving friends. It's time to get busy and get GOING!

On June 17, my husband's coffee company, Ground to Cup coffee launched the official partnership of G2C with Children's HopeChest, in taking on and loving a CarePoint community in Awassa, Ethiopia called "Warancha". Our role is to gather our community together to sponsor 150 plus children (giving them education, medical/dental care, discipleship) and begin to effect change in their community through capital projects and more. To add, GOING would be an opportunity for anyone interested each year. Little did we know, the Lord would say "GO" so quickly.

Through a stream of incredible events, my sweet hubby will be leading the first ever Children's HopeChest/Visiting Orphans mission trip into, count em', FOUR CarePoints (including the opportunity at ours) in Awassa, Ethiopia.
The team will also spend the first few days in Addis Ababa loving some precious kids in orphanages there.

This trip is sure to be incredible as the team will get to see first hand the difference sponsorship makes on a community and the children within it. Each CarePoint is at different phases of it's sponsorship, capital projects including the possibility of spending time in OURS ... Warancha ... which is brand new.
We have many children yet to sponsor in this community (so please contact me if that interests you ... I'll get you all set up) so the team will also get to meet the sweet faces of those children who still yearn the hope of a sponsor family. AND ... for those who have already activated their own sponsorships, you can meet your sweet children in person!

Time is of the essence in sign ups for this trip and so I would LOVE for any of your help. FIRST, sign up yourself if you can go. It will be life changing. Next, promote it on your FB pages and blogs Please oh Please! We want to fill this team and love big these children!

Go to Visiting Orphans and click on "Mission trips". Click on "Africa", "Ethiopia" and then "2011". You can read more about the trip there under "October 6-16". You can fill out your application right there online and then, fasten your seatbelt for 10 days that will completely wreck your world and arrest your heart forever!

Some of the sweet faces of "Warancha"