gracious sakes alive

We've been home 5 weeks. I wonder how long I will count the weeks?

Today. I really do not want to go into great detail, but today something happened. And the day turned out ok. And I am really thankful that it did...I was beginning to wonder if our new family would ever begin to gel, even just a little bit. Today it did. A little bit. And it was good.

God is faithful.

4 weeks

So. this is now a public blog, because thank GOD we have been home for 4 weeks.

It was a nightmarish experience. We had to leave Uganda in July without the boys. That was NOT the plan. But all was straightened out eventually, and we were able to go in Sept. and all come home together. All 7 of us.

I'm back over at typepad.

lauradodson::a joyful life

Come on over. I will not be keeping up 2 blogs. Like I have time. ;o)

God is Faithful

We head out tomorrow a.m. and our flight takes off around 8pm. I am excited, nervous, a bit scared, missing my boys already all rolled into one.

The Lord DID IN FACT provide all finances needed. That little thermometer is a pain in the neck to update. Sorry. God has been and will continue to be faithful.

We're headed off into the unknown. Thankfully HE KNOWS and goes before us. He will show himself strong and mighty on our behalf. He will. He will. He will. He has not brought us this far to leave us or forsake us. I'm not sure how rough it will get over in Uganda, but Psalm 23 and Psalm 121 are two of my key pieces of encouragement right now.

I equate our journey with child labor: I had NO CLUE what to expect, it hurt. ALOT. But here I am on the other side with 2 boys. I'm sure this will be no different. My breathing exercises will come in handy this time around as well. ;o) This pain we are about to endure has a purpose. Not only will it 'birth' 3 more boys, it will surely sanctify us even more...and we all know how uncomfortable sanctification is.

Love y'all. I'm not sure WHO reads this now, since I NEVER update. BUT if I end up taking my laptop, maybe I'll be able to update this blog a little??? Or not. Guess it depends on the internet.

Pray.

A note from the boys!

Over in Uganda right this very moment is a lovely young lady who serves as the long term missionary at Welcome Home. A few days ago she started corresponding with me and has been giving me updates on the boys and life in Jinja.

This a.m. however, I opened an email that contained a note from our children + a sweet prayer from Alan. Here ya go:

I think the boys will actually welcome big hugs and kisses, they kiss your picture enough! But I think they will adjust quickly since the anticipation of your arrival is so big :) I have to tell you, Alan and I prayed the other day and it went something like this... "Dear Lord Jesus, I thank you for my mommy, and my daddy, keep them safe, and bring them here fast. I thank you that my mommy thinks I'm handsome. I pray in jesus name, Amen!" I'm telling you, I have never seen Alan so excited!

Oh, I have a special treat for you... your three boys are in the office with me and they want to type (or try to type) you a message. "Hello Mommy! I love you! You come! We want to see my mommy! Hello Mommy! How are you? We are fine. We want to see our Daddy! Hello Daddy! Ow are woo (Jeremiah), Daddy how are you? We are fine! Daddddyyyyyy! We want to see Daddy and Mommy. We want to go on airoplane. We want to hug and play and to go to swimming and we swim in water. Hello Caleb and Joshua! We love you! Come soon!"

Alright, that was literally what came out of their mouths as they came into the office and I told them I was talking to you. Haha they kept shouting louder and louder. :) I think this is more of a treat for them!

Travel Plans

WOW! Saturday we received our approval fro USCIS.

I cried in the parking lot of Guadalupe Lumber. ;o) The tears flowed freely and I tried to smile ALOT since all these people were looking at me funny. Good thing I'll never see them again.

AND NOW...drum roll please....

We travel May 27 and go to court June 1. These are both tentative dates, but we do book flights tomorrow. Yippee.

God has been so good. I know He is more faithful that I will ever comprehend.

My parents come tomorrow for a very short visit, once they're gone I'll be scurrying around tieing up loose ends.

People! We're going to the Pearl of Africa.

Praise God. For His is the kingdom, the glory, the honor, and power. Amen.

influx

Got another email today from the second family that arrived last week at Welcome Home. Lori emailed me a sweet little bit of love from my Alan. ;o)

Ohhhhh, Laura! It is so good to hear from you! Your boys are amazing...but you already know that =) Today Alan came to me and said "My mom is coming!" I said, "Yes, your mom is coming soon and she loves you!" He had a big smile and another worker said, "Yes, and your daddy too!" We are so happy that your time is so near.

I know you are in contact with Maria too, but if you have any questions let us know and we will try to be helpful.

Court went well for us this week and Thursday is our ruling. It is encouraging that the process seems to have improved...just in time for you to come =) Peter is an awesome lawyer...you will be in good hands.

We will be praying for you and look forward to hearing all about your own journey in Uganda. Be ready to recieve and give endless hugs and kisses...

Let me say...for the record ;o) ... it makes my heart SING to hear of Alan's eagerness for his Mommy and Daddy to come. He is old enough to be taking all of this in, by that I mean what is going on right now with the two other families getting their children. He is processing all this in his little mind and it's clicking.

They've all been 'reading' their book and now that the other two families are there, the boys are realizing (esp. Alan and Jeremiah--their older) that their turn is next. ;o) I wonder if they think it about us while going to bed at night? Obviously, Alan is...and Daniel. I'm sure Jeremiah is, too.

****

We (Jeff) spoke for a few minutes during church, we hand out pics and a letter telling the church what we needed.Jeff did such a good job. I am so thankful I have been given such an excellent hubby. I love him so.

A few families have given funds which just blesses up tremendously. We now need $7100. I haven't changed the thermometer cuz it's a pain in the neck. However, I think I'll change it by Friday when all the $$ is in the bank.

Still no word from immigration, but I'm sure it's coming... ;o)

I hope our hearts are big enough ;o)

I received an email from Maria. She is over there ALONE right now, awaiting her Hub. She is having a wonderful time and sent me this note. :o)

My cup runneth over!

We had Samaratin's Purse visit at the orphanage today and deliver boxes to the kids. Your boys were so cute! Dan especially loved a spinning top he got. Be prepared to hear "mommy" said to you about 50,000X in a day by him. =) He is deeply longing for you. At first he thought that I was Mommy....then Lori & Dan arrived today and he started gravitating to them and calling Lori mommy...we had to take him aside and explain that you were coming soon. He will be overjoyed when you get here...all three will!

2 days ago Alan came up to me when all the kids were playing and said: My mommy is coming later. I told him that yes you were and that I had talked to his Mommy and she thought he was soooo handsome and loved him very much. He got this HUGE grin on his face and went back to happily playing.

Laura...your heart must be huge because God as given you some sons who will need all the love you and your family has!
Blessings and hope to see you soon!
Maria

Prayer Card} Update

To be given on Sunday, I think...but maybe not...just wanted to make one, ok? ;o)

So. Looks like this will be going out on Sunday at church. Our Pastor said it was fine with him, and said he will ask Jeff to come up to the podium and say his little "thing". ;o) We'll have a letter for each family sitting in the pews. The boys are going to stand at the front and hand out our prayer cards to all who enter.

Folks. Would you look at those faces?! That flower in J's hair cracks me up. I look at that and think, "Oh to kiss those cheeks!" And Daniel looks like a sprite of a fellow, and I want to just scoop him up and squeeeeeeze. And Alan! man oh man he looks like his ready for a good tickle and romp in the grass.

Here's the letter, I know it's long in a blog format, however, would you please read it and tell me how it sounds? Thanks.

{Update Letter}

DODSON FAMILY ADOPTION UPDATE:

Hello from the Dodson family! How are you? We hope well! Thank you so much for praying for us. We appreciate it more than you know. We are nearing the end…or rather, the beginning. Update below!
************

When we began our adoption process back in November, it was for the purpose of expanding our family.

As each month passed, however, we began to see that this journey was not about expanding our family. Instead, it became more about bringing family to the orphan. Will our family’s size increase? Certainly, and for that we are thankful! However, our adoption is no longer self-centered, but Christ-centered.

We realize that, as a family, we have been called to minister to those in need…in need of a Daddy, Mommy, and two big brothers. How can we say, “No” to that call? We cannot. How can we say, “No” to Alan, Jeremiah, and Daniel? We cannot! Our 3 boys were abandoned as babies. Thankfully, their Mothers loved them enough to leave them where they could be found, and cared for. (Unfortunately, this is not the case for the majority of orphaned children. Commit to pray for these children. Ask the Lord what He would have YOU do concerning them. James 1:26,27)

Why Uganda? Uganda is the country to which God has called us. He has used the ministry of our church family (Lifegate) to help us see a need there. Uganda’s orphans are no more special than those in America, China, Ethiopia, Ukraine, Russia, or anywhere else in the world. They’re orphans all the same. God has said, “Uganda.” That is where we are going.

God has been truly faithful during our process. Adoption is expensive. We certainly did not have the sum of money necessary to even begin the process, and yet, we were and are certain that this call to adopt, to care for the orphan, is of God. It is our mission. What did we do? We prayed and continue to pray! We prayed that the Lord would “supply all our needs according to His riches in glory”. Philippians 4:19

And do you know what happened? He has and He is! Through several families in our church who have given sacrificially, through family members, and friends in our community, He has supplied us with everything we have needed to this day! Moreover, He will continue to do so! God has not brought us this far to leave or forsake us. He is faithful! To God be the glory, He is so good.

Why this letter? We are still in need of travel fare. It will cost $8000 ($600 has already been donated) in order for us to travel to and from Uganda. We are leaving for Uganda in about 3-4 weeks!!! J We have been hesitant to ask for contributions from our church, family, friends, or our community. Money is especially tight these days for everyone. We certainly have no desire to cause anyone any financial stress. However, in Scripture, God tells us to ask. Luke 11:1-13, John 15:16, I John 5:14,15

So we are asking, would you please consider giving towards our airfare? Would you consider being Jesus’ hands and feet? Would you please consider helping us bring family to Alan, Jeremiah, and Daniel? If you are unable to give financially, would you please consider lifting us up in prayer before our Holy, Heavenly, Loving Abba Father? He is ever faithful! “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in Him. The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him.” Lamentations 3: 24,25. Financial gifts can be given directly to us, or to Lifegate—please put Dodson Family in the memo. (Lifegate Church, 395 Lifegate Lane, Seguin, TX 78155)

***Prayer Needs: airfare, good health (sewage contaminated water, malaria, typhoid, parasites, etc.), and solid attachment/bonding with boys in Uganda, safe travel, and smooth adjustment in USA.***

“Now to HIM who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to HIM be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20,21

Thank you.

Much love,Jeff, Laura, Joshua, Caleb, Alan, Jeremiah, and Daniel Dodson

New Photos...YAY!

So, the girl that we thought we'd be traveling with arrived in Uganda on friday morning. After a 5...F I V E...hour journey by van they group arrived in Jinja. She met her boys for the first time!

Before she left, she told me that she'd be sure to take pics of our boys. ;o) I received 2 this a.m. She says she has lots more, but hasn't had time to download just yet.

Jeremiah

Would you look at that SMILE!?!?! Mandy told me that when he arrived at the orphanage as a baby, he was very sullen and withdrawn. It doesn't look like that now, does it?

Also, notice the little lily-like flowers in his hair. The boy likes flowers. ;o) Mandy also told us this and said...and I quote..."He's not a f*ggy boy." She told us the story of when she took over the home several years ago, that she really didn't know what to expect from the children. When she went to check things out in Uganda, she arrived to all these de-headed lilies. The workers thought she'd be angry because the children destroyed the plants. Her response? "Oh thank God, they're normal!" They found beauty in a sad situation...

In our family book, I dedicated two whole pages to some of the flower pots, and beds I have here at the house just for Jeremiah. ;o) I told him we'd go to the store and everyone could pick a flower and we would put them in their own pots. :o)

Daniel

He had a bo-bo on his nose. ;o) He's one little guy, isn't he? Mandy says that he has more clear words than he did her last visit (which I think was Oct. 08). I am so excited about that. I cannot wait to see these guys.

I'm sure we'll be getting some of Alan as well. Internet is patchy over there, so I feel like these pics are a huge blessing. :o)

I'm starting to think that maybe I will take my laptop. She bought a simcard for guests to use on their computer. She is doing this in the evening and I think that might be a good time for me to update as well. We'll see.

About a year ago...

About a year ago, in April 08, some friends of ours went before the church one Sunday morning. They projected two pictures on the wall behind them. One was William. The other was Marissa.

My thoughts at the time, "Oh. Cute kids."

That's it.

I was happy for them. I wanted to pray for them. And that's as far as it went.

In May, they came to the church/school picnic, and by that time, I was really excited for them. I was excited they were going to have a long layover in London (even though someone was not that eager to see it...and to this day is unimpressed) to get out and stretch and see a tiny bit of the city. I was excited that they would be meeting their littles for the first time and very curious as to how that would go.

Fast forward to November 08, during a Sunday School lesson, Mike made a observation that the first words God spoke to Man and Woman was, "Be fruitful and multiply...". Well. That did me in and I cried the rest of the day. (It has been 11 almost 12 years since I carried/birthed a baby and I really wanted to, and for now, it isn't possible.) I ran into the Nursery and sat there with Amy, April, and someone else, I think. They listened. Amy said, "I'm going to ask you a question that I was asked." "Ok..." "Have you considered adoption?"

Huh?! We had never considered adoption. Not once. We were not closed to the idea and certainly not against it, but never considered it for ourselves. So I pondered on that a week. Prayed. Sought the Lord.

Next Sunday, MORE crying. ugh...it gets old after a while.

I totally lost it when I heard that Amy's family was moving (and still don't like it). Melissa just looked at me and said, "What is wrong? This can't be just because Amy is moving!" I blubbered, "I want to adopt!"

After church, Amy, April, and Melissa (I think) sat down at a picnic table and I joined them. They asked if I had told Jeff. I said, No. Amy said, "Let's do an experiment. Let's pray that the Lord will speak to Jeff about adoption." We went home and that night I told Jeff what I was thinking.

Shocked is an understatement. He said he'd pray about it...which I don't think he did for the first few weeks. I think he was nervous, and didn't want to know what God thought on the matter.

However, when he did start to pray and think about it, he came to me and said he thought this was something we should do. WOW.

Then I freaked out! I questioned him up one side and down the other. I really thought he would say no, and we would move on, and life would go back to normal. When he said yes, I blew a gasket. I really thought it was crazy, and that God certainly was not calling us to do this. I wanted to go back to my safe little life. I was scared to death!

Ha ha. And now look at me...a mom to 5 boys. Those 3 boys are just about to meet us, and us them. We are total strangers. We know nothing about each other. And yet I am their mother. I don't know what they eat, if they have likes or dislikes, what their personalities are like...but if you think about it, what Mom knows these things about her baby? Yes, a 'birth mom' has 9 months to get used to the idea that a baby will be arriving soon...but I have had that time too, 7 months to get used to the idea that 3 little boys will be joining our family very soon. Even a baby born to a Mother are total strangers. At least, that is how I felt when Joshua and Caleb were born. We had to get to know each other. And we did! ;o)

We are still waiting for our immigration papers. Maybe by the end of next week we can start to expect them.

This has been one wild ride so far. And it isn't over yet. However, I have lots of encouragement at my fingertips.

"For as the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so is the Lord round about His people from henceforth, even forever." Psalm 125:2

Praise GOD from Whom ALL BLESSINGS FLOW!

I received a note from Mandy this a.m. She is still in Uganda and won't be home til late April.

*****

"Kids are beautiful.3 boys bonded well.I shared the book with Alan by himself first. He was thrilled.Still a little strong but wonderful.They are doing the book every day.All the kids are enjoying book.Dan has a lot more clear words than last visit.Good trip so far."

Love & BlessingsMandy

*****
Thrilled beyond words! Thank you Jesus! Isn't it 'odd' how my God gives me just the lift I need when I need it? Just a little reminder that we are...we are...smack in the middle of His plan for us. Yep. God is good like that.

what a day!

Around 1:30 this afternoon, Jeff and I headed to SA to see if USCIS was open for their Saturday walk-in appts. I had my doubts because of Passover weekend. Guess what!? They were OPEN.

And NO one was in there except the staff.

We filled out our paperwork and waited (with our assigned number) for all of a minute. We each went to our respective desks for our fingerprinting. The woman there kept calling me 'young lady'...48 times to be exact...and to relax my fingers. HUH? I didn't know my fingers were tense! ;o)

She marveled at how well preserved my finger prints are, especially since I am a SAHM who uses bleach. I told her I put it in a squirt bottle. "Good for you!" she replied. ha ha ha...

After we were finished, Jeff took me to Chris Madrids! YUM-O! If you want an old fashion burger and fries made with REAL potatoes...go to Chris Madrids on Blanco and Hildebrand.

Then, off to Costco to compare prices. We joined. We are now executive members. :o) We only bought two things-a book for me to read, and some Speedo croc-like shoes.

yay!

a penny saved is a penny earned

$350 may be a small start...but even pennies add up! Thank you Jesus!

I think it's about right.

I think we'll need $8,700 for travel expenses... ( I had $7,700 up, but I added wrong.)

I've not gotten our air fare quote, but should in the next few days...in fact, think I'll call tomorrow.

AND in Happy Dance news: WE GOT AN APPT FOR FINGERPRINTING! Whoop whoop.

We are scrimping and saving to cover our expenses while we are away. We want to give some $$ to the boys to give to their wonderful caregivers...because they eat like horses + our mortgage and basic bills.

Would you pray for us, please?

(Our funky photoshopped family.)

We are nearing the end of our wait stateside. Soon, we'll have our approval from immigration, a court date, and flight plans.

We still need aout $10,000. I plan on sitting down tomorrow to figure out a more exact figure, but it's up in that range. I am at rest and peace that God will provide for us, just not sure how. And you know, I don't really need to know how, but we do need to have direction if we're going to have a fundraiser. To date, we've not had one. The Lord has not led us in that direction. He has given us $27,ooo so far, so I am not worried about the last 10.

But would you pray? That the Lord will lead us, provide for us, and show us if we need to hold a fundraiser? Thanks.

There's a chance...

we'll get to meet some Canadians *gasp* while in Uganda. They'll be getting their littles from another orphanage in the area. Maybe we can eat lunch together at one of the local restaurants! Yay! Their babies are much younger than our rough and tumble boys.

She has a wonderful little blog, too.

Mercy Moi

Go check it out!

hello, hello!

Yippee Skippee! This happens to be the receipt from Homeland Security telling us they got our stuff, and have a fingerprinting appointment scheduled, and to look for the appt. card in the mail.



:o)



We are nearing the end, folks.



No. That's not right...



We're nearing the beginning! The beginning of changed lives forever. Ours+Theirs. We are getting more and more excited as the days pass.



Our backyard is coming together. Most of the fence is done, the shed is completed and all shed stuff is moved in as of today. That means bedroom #3 will be started this week. This week! The kitchen will be put back this coming weekend, after the floor finishes curing and we can buff and seal it. YAY. We'll have our home office in the too small to eat in eating nook, along with the bottom portion of my art desk for creative play, brio, puzzles, etc. for the boys.



The white part of the desk that the flat file is sitting on is the perfect height for little people to stand and work, or sit and work/play. Joshua and Caleb asked if Dad (Jeff) could put a piece of trim around the perimeter like those fancy $200 dollar tables at the fancy toy store to keep things from rolling off. So I believe that is the plan.



At some point, maybe once we get home? Depends on our time frame...a fort will be built in the backyard with a slide. I think Jeff wants to design it himself and possibly make it multi-levels....but not too high! ;o) He really enjoys building things and working with his hands. I am so thankful he knows how to do all this stuff. It sure does save us money, plus he teaches the boys in the process.



Sooo, guess I'm rambling. Gonna go hit the hay now, I have nursery duty tomorrow...which I signed up for BEFORE we decided to adopt! And now, I'm not so enthused. I did say I'd go on and do April and May, but I cannot commit to anything after that because we're gonna have 5 BOYS in a pew and we're going to need to be together. G'night.

When we decided to adopt Alan as well, that obviously meant my big huge "It's All Paid For" post became null and void.

But that is okay. God knew all along that would happen.

I am certain he will provide the rest of the money we need. When He has already given us such a large amount of money to date, I know He will not leave us hanging.

Of course, I still am sinful and tend to question Him. "How?" "When?"

That's not for me to know. I was given the scripture, "Be still and know that I am God." So that's what I am trying to do. ;o) It's really hard, by the way. Being still isn't something I do well naturally. However, I'm learning.

Projected Dates

When talking with our director, she gave us some projected dates. Assuming, of course, all runs smoothly.

Depart: Wednesday, May 20

Arrive: Friday, May 22

Hang tight in Uganda for up to, but hopefully not more than, 5 weeks.

Depart for home: Friday, June 19

Arrive: June 21 or 22 depending on time of flight from London.

*****

There are times I think to myself, "Eek gads, woman! You're going to have 5 boys under one roof! 6 counting Jeff! WHAT ARE YOU THINKING!?!?!"

Thankfully, I purchased Managers of Their Homes. ;o) Seriously, I did. I am going to make some form of a schedule to keep us all reasonably on track.

Thankfully, we bought a picnic table. I'm thinkin' breakfast and lunch OUTSIDE, people.

Thankfully, my hubby will be building a fun fort soon and we'll hang a swing from a tree.

Thankfully, my parents bought a house in our town so I can have a date with my husband at least once a month. I going to miss our 'go whenever we want' dates. We'll have to be more proactive.

Thankfully, I have a big God who will lead me every step of the way. Life will slide into place. I think the first 6 months will be our huge time of adjustment.

Thankfully, Habakkuk reminds me that, "For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end--it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay."

Hab 2:3

Kori wins!

She guessed first, and got it right. We welcome our 5th son, Alan, into the Dodson fold.

He'll be 5 in July. We are so excited, a bit nervous, abundantly blessed.

*****

Update.

Why we decided to add Alan to our family...the short story. When our homestudy came through, and we were approved for 3, I called our director to let her know. Her first response was, "Oh don't worry, you can still just have the two. Unless...you were thinking otherwise?"

Ha ha. Yes. I was secretly thinking otherwise.

I asked, "Is there another child?" She told me of Alan, who recently had a bit of a hurtful experience. She conveyed the story and my heart melted. But what about Jeff. What about the boys?

So I approached Jeff cautiously. He was open. We continued to talk and pray tons.

What about J and C? Well, little did I know, they overheard the entire conversation with the director. Over the next week, Alan was center stage. They had so many good questions. They were very concerned for him. And. They continued to say, "Too bad we can't adopt him, too." Or, my personal favorite from Caleb, "Mom, if God can provide for us to adopt two boys, do you think he could provide for us to adopt three?" Good Lord. "What do you think, Caleb?" "Yes. God can do it. He made the world. He can do it."

And yes, I cried. (and am doing so now.)

Alan tipped the scales to joy overflowing in Joshua. That was huge. Joshua was always excited, but I think very nervous about the whole adoption and how it would change our family. But when he heard about Alan, those feelings subsided.

When we asked them what they thought (after about a week of prayer on our part), Joshua responded, "Well. I think I would really like him to be in our family."

Caleb said, "If Alan could be my brother, my heart would burst."

:o)

So we called the director, and told her the news. "It's unanimous. We want Alan!" Her sweet response, "Thank you Jesus. You've made my day."

Sooooo, I am now Mom to 5 boys. I am still a bit nervous about handling all this energy, but I think in time we'll find our groove and settle in nicely.

Yay God!

A surprise is brewing...

We sent off our i600a forms today.

In our dossier, we included a new family book. The old one was obselete.

Guess what?!

(Hint: Look for clues...)

ready

This huge stack of paper represents about 3 months of my life. It didn't need to take that long to gather. However, it did. Now it is ready to fly out of my house as soon as our 3rd homestudy arrives. It will come sometime on Monday. Depending on the time it arrives, our file will either go out Monday or Tuesday overnighted to California.

Mandy leaves on the 30th. She wants to carry it over to Uganda. Which is much safer than DHL.

Yesterday, when I discovered that our HS was incorrectly notarzied I sat down on the floor and cried. I could not believe it. It has taken nearly 3 months just to get our homestudy correct. Part of that was due to my birth certificate fiasco, but the other was just 'operator errror'.

Jeff called the social worker. I couldn't do it. I was beyond frustrated. While he talked to her, I went to the grocery and purchased paper plates. I did. I couldn't handle another thing. I just wanted my lunch on a plate I could toss in the trash. *sigh*

When I got home Joshua saw the plates. He said, "Oh. Thank God, paper plates."

;o)

I responded, "Exactly." That boy knows a thing or two. :o) We must be raising him right.

So here's what I know:

Yes, God is Sovereign

Yes, His timing is perfect.

Yes, He is teaching me patience.

Yes, I am a sinner.

Yes, I want it done NOW, forget this patience thing.

Yes, I am a sinner.

And my favorite two words in all the Bible..."But God". Take a sec and look up those words in a concordance and see what you find.

Sweet Folks

The Scott Family hosted a Rescue Hero Toy Drive for us. Erica heard through blogland that I was having a hard time finding figures with dark skin. She suggested Rescue Heroes which I LOVE. Joshua and Caleb had many when they were little. However, we gave them away when they outgrew them. And they're no longer made by Fisher Price. ;o(

Erica asked if she could put a post it note on her blog asking for donations. ;o)

Several ladies whom I've never met, let alone spoken/corresponded with donated some to our cause. One even bid on ebay for us! How sweet! Cameron, Erica's youngest son, went through his own stash when he saw we needed some more people.

Thanks guys. Your thoughtfulness means so much to us. I know the littles and biggies will have some good times playing with the Rescue Heroes. Y'all rock!

in the mail

As I type, our HS in the mail on its way to us. Hip Hip Hooray.

Yippee!

Just heard from our social worker. She is getting our homestudy notarized THIS WEEK. Once we get it, we're off to immigration. Yeehaw!

Currently, we're under construction.

See those greens? They're not staying. I like that darker one on the left, however, we've decided to use the red we used in the boy's room for that wall. I had my heart set on green. It's so cheerful, however, none of the greens we've tried look good at all times of day in all different types of light. It looks so cheerful though.

The shed gets started tomorrow. Once that is done, the third bedroom will be started. All this is being done to get ready for the younguns headed our way. :o)

Zippity Do Dah...

Zippity Ay

My Oh My What a Wonderful Day...

So it's been a while since I've posted. It's hard posting when there is not much happening. However, the last week has been incredible.

My paperwork from the lawyer by messenger while in Houston! That was a great pre-Bday gift. :o) The doorbell rang about 9:30am and I rushed to the door, I knew exactly what it was!

This a.m. received 11 wonderful new pictures of our boys! Here's Daniel signing Mommy. He's still learning...fingers should be sticking up and thumb on chin. It blessed my socks off to see that little grin. :o)

Jeremiah signing Daddy--sort of--with a silly grin. Love it!

I thought that was enough to make my day...then! around 10 am, Vital Statistics called from Austin! My birth certificate is done AND picked up. I drove over this afternoon. Hardly ANY traffic...and those who have driven Austin know that's a miracle!

I'll fax it over to the SW tomorrow and hopefully we'll be in business very soon. YAY.

Thank you all for praying! God hears your prayers.

****

God is teaching me daily to rest in Him...to be still and to know He is God! I am so thankful He loves me and cares for me in this way. He handles everything and let's me sit and watch Him at work. I believe this is not only for my sanctification, but to prepare us for Africa. I know we will be waiting alot over there. My prayer and hope is not to panic, but REST IN HIM. I'm thankful for the practice. :o)

Tuesday

Lord willing, my paperwork will be ready for me on Tuesday of next week. I am so excited I can hardly stand the wait. ;o)

I will be in H-town then, so I may be able to get the papers myself from the lawyer. I hope to go to Austin on Thursday or Friday a.m. and present my request for new birth certificate.

We are doing our very best to have every thing ready so once the BC is done, we can then proceed with the next step. YAY.

Our house closing keeps getting postponed. ARG. However, I know it is God's plan. So I am not going to waste time harping on that. (I'm good at that. Harping. So not now, ok?)

Overwhelmed

God is so good. He is true to His word.



Please remember back, if you will, that weird moment where I shared about my dream. (yes, that still sounds completely kooky to me.) That Voice? ... Still. Quiet. Commanding.



"It's all paid for."



The adoption is all paid for. :o) Yes, there are still other fees and expenses involved. However, at this point in time I do not believe I will be quibbling with the LORD about those. I am certain He can handle even them.


I've blogged about it over here as well, so sorry for the double ~ yet slightly different post.


Unbeknownst to me, this check arrived in the mail yesterday around noon. I was in the middle of school with the boys, then errands, then practices...sigh...until about 5pm. Once home, I looked through the mail and saw the envelope.


"Hmmm, what's this?"


I opened it. I think time stood sill for a while as I laughed, cried, paced, knelt, and sat~awed at the provision of the Lord.


I knew a check was in the works. However, until I saw it it just wasn't real to me.


People. IT'S REAL.


I have replayed all those questions I've had over and over the last day or so, and they've since evaporated. I know in my soul that God has ordained this journey of ours.


"Now to Him who is able to do FAR MORE abudantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:20,21

GO HERE if you want to read details.

Exhibits A,B,C,D

Call #1 of The Calls We've Been Waiting For: Documents changed, need signatures, overnight them back to us, will be sent to Judge.

HALLELUJAH! I called the lawyer today and when his assistant answered she was happy to hear my voice. :o) She had me on her To Do list today. She emailed me the forms for Jeff to sign stating that he's my HUSBAND and not my FATHER. Aye!

Jeff will sign those pups, and they'll be off tomorrow, my parents have forms to sign, then the Judge...THEN the request for a new birth certificate pour moi...THEN off to immigration for our apps for those two cutie pies on the right. ;o)

I had to print these docs off at the library because our printer is pitiful. I signed up for a computer and told I'd have to wait an hour. Frustrated, I said, "Ok. Put my name down." I walked over to the magazines praying silently, "Loooooord?" I think that's about all I could muster. My buzzer went off signaling I had a computer. "Yes! Thank you God!" Sat down, and the computer wouldn't print attachments from emails. arg. Got another computer. Same thing. Finally saw one of my 'Pet Librarians' and she gave the okay to go to the genealogy room. (Which is kind of a big deal as some of the ladies who work there are very strict and won't let me use that room.) Got my docs printed. YES!

February is this super crazy month of basketball ending, family visiting, birthday celebrating, theatre productions and competitions and I have to admit that it is kinda nice being 'on hold' for bit till this paperwork is sorted through. However, it feels like this train is building steam getting really close to lurching forward and headin' out. ;o)

Welcome Home Africa Orphanage

I found this video on Youtube today. I think I've seen it before, but had not posted it. So for all of you who'd like to see where we're headed...THIS IS IT!

Have YOU bought into the lie?

I can call whenever I want!

That's what our laywer's secretary said. :o) Makes me very happy. I talked to her yesterday and she had called the judge's office in the morning and asked to pull my file. The judge's secretary said for her to call back tomorrow (today) afternoon. Hopefully, it will be UNSEALED today! Whoop! That's our prayer. Then the changes can be made! YAY!

I was reminded this morning that God has not brought me to this place to leave me exposed to the elements. He stretches out His wings and they cover me. His wings are for protection, they are wings of help, and refuge. God had wanted to gather Israel under His wings like a mother hen her chicks, but they refused. I do not want to refuse. God is my refuge, my help in time of need. He is my strength. He is my provision. It is not I who provides for myself, but the Lord. I will trust in Him.

Good News + 2 Prayer Requests

I spoke with Mandy today. One of the new missionaries that has gone over to Welcome Home will be teaching Daniel (and Jeremiah, I think) sign language! She knows ASL and will be teaching him the basics. :o) That means once we're over there, the missionary can let me know what she's taught him and we'll be able to talk easily. Once home, we can pursue hearing aids. Yay!

Jeff called the lawyer about 5 minutes ago, and I have updates! All adoption records are sealed. The request to unseal my records is on the judge's desk. The lawyer's secretary has a pop up reminder on her computer to call every 2 hours to check to see if it has been unsealed. Once it is unsealed, they will send a courrier over to retrieve the documents. The changes have already been made on another form which can immediately go back into the unsealed file and back to the Judge. At that point, he can either decide to make the corrections without a hearing OR have another hearing. Since I was an adult when I was adopted, the attorney thinks it will be no problem for the judge to sign off on the changes. Once they're signed off, I believe I can get the file and take it to Vital Statistics in Austin myself.

**PLEASE PRAY this will all happen speedily.**

God CAN make a way for this to occur lickety-split. ;o) I know these things.

I know all things are working on His time table and not mine. His ways are higher than mine. His thoughts are higher than mine. He knows absolute best. Period.

Our refinance is coming along nicely. Our home was appraised at a much higher value than we had expected! That means we will have enough funds to renovate the house and get our 3rd bedroom, shed, fence, etc. easily. Our house payment will stay about the same, YAY! We had hoped for lower, but we're happy with the same payment with more living space.

All that's left for us to do: get insurance worked out, and classes. We've been stalling on those two things until my certificate gets ironed out.

PRAYER REQUEST #2: There is a new judge. He is very gruff. He has been approving the adoptions but is very diligent in going over every last bit of paperwork, and grilling the applicants (that'd be us) in the court room. Mandy says he's very good at his job, upholds the law, etc. but is like a tom who marks his territory with his stamp of approval. We will also have two court dates instead of one. He chooses to see the children independently of each other. That requires extra trips to "K city". Pray that we will have favor in the eyes of the judge, for kindness, meekness, and respectful actions on our part. I have a feeling that we will be tested with many frustrations while there. My hope is that Jeff and I will treat all we meet with Christ-like kindness, love, grace, integrity. I do not want us harboring bitterness or sarcasmn in our hearts because it will show on our face and in our tone of voice. I want a genuine love for the people and honor for all the gov't workers to flow freely from each of us while we are there.

just.waiting.

Did you know that waiting hurts? Well, it does. I know our littles will be home when God deems it time, but I tell ya, this waiting is going to be the death of me. Which is probably a good thing... you know, the whole dying to self part.

The whole adoption decree/birth certificate debaucle is still debaucle-ing. Can I make debaucle into a verb? I just did. So there. ;o)

On happier notes~ we've received Jeff's passport! It took about 10 days. Wowzers! That was fast!

I was called last week by a sweet young lady from Lifegate telling me that she and her 5th grade class raised $59 at a bake sale in our honor!!! Isn't that the sweetest thing ever? This is the 3rd group of children that have given money towards our adoption. It just makes my heart sing to witness how the Lord is working in the lives of His little ones. :o)

Guess that's about it for now. TTFN.

A New Truck for Daniel

This little guy makes me sad. I don't like how his little head is tucked under. :o( My mission is a smile. I hope to get that sooner than later. His truck is tireless,too....not that a boy really NEEDS a truck with a tire but I'm sure it drives much better.

Jeff and I were in SA on Saturday. After we got our paperwork from the social worker, she was in town and had our file, we stopped in to check out the Goodwill on De Zavala.

I had been thinking of lots of toys I wanted to get for the boys this past week and came up with a wee list. One in my mind, that I hadn't shared with anyone but God. We both saw the Goodwill, and thought, "Hey we're here. Let's stop in."

We walked in and I have to say, this was the nicest Goodwill I've ever been in. I mean, it's still Goodwill. Don't picture Neiman's...but the selection was better than Seguin.

I found a small toy shelf and on it was that LIKE NEW Little Tikes Dump Truck. $1.99. !!! Thanks God! What ever child had that truck either didn't use it much or had so many other things he couldn't use it. It looked like it was straight out of the box. I had hoped to find him a dump truck! :o) I also wanted some wooden blocks to put in the truck for dumping/building purposes. We found an old Jenga game, $1.99. See that plane? I wanted a plane so badly, so we could 'roll play' once home our adventure to America, Mommy, Daddy, brothers, ... family. The plane is Playmobil. We had just looked at a Playmobil plane online not 2 days before, $50. This plane with pilot and co-pilot all in great condition, $1.99. I snatched it up. I wanted something more 'educational' and we found a Tangoes,jr. It's a Tangram game. Like new, people! $3.99. The pieces are magnetic so they won't slide off. We also found some play clothes in excellent condition for $.99 a piece...shorts and collared shirst and T's....A Children's Place, Arizona, Parisien Kids. They did not smell bad! They smelled like fabric softener. $20 bought them quite a bit of stuff. Thanks God. Now they have some play clothes and toys. :o)

And Daniel has a new truck...

Leann and Anna

So. Just who are Leann and Anna, you ask? They're the ladies who sit behind the front desk at the library and check your books/videos out and take all your money in overdue fines. :o)

They just learned yesterday that Jeremiah and Daniel are coming.

J and D,

They're SO EXCITED to meet you, boys! They've asked to see pictures of you two.

Every Wednesday, Leann reads at Story Time. We can walk across the street to our library, listen to a story, have a little snack, and make a craft. I think you'll like it. Your brothers, Joshua and Caleb, used to go when they were little and they thought it was the funnest day of the week! :o)

One Happy Family

(Just for the record: as soon as this blog can go public, it's being imported to Typepad. Just sayin. Blogger makes me angry. Yes. Blogger. Not any sin within me. It's Blogger, 100%. I need line breaks people! Is that too much to ask!?!!?)

Y'all know I'm kidding about that sin part, right?

As part of our adoption process, we have to make a family story book. We had to photoshop in Daniel and Jeremiah. Since Jeff sort of knows how to do that he took over that job. I just put everything together once it was done. Let me just say for the record --this is a different record than the previous one mentioned--we are going to LAUGH about this book for years to come people! At one point, I was on the verge of tears. Poor Jeremiah looked like he had a bite taken out of his little head!!! Aye. :o) Sorry J, we love you...we can get a little silly around here.

It has to be simple for the kids to focus on us and not cute artwork. Imagnine ME not doing anything CUTE to a scrapbook. I'm all about simple, but this one consists of a picture and a caption. Period. But don't you worry your pretty little head, I'll make up some CUTE family story books for each boy. :o) Cuz that's what I do.

Joshua and Caleb each wrote a short, personal note. Now they're begging to buy something fun for their brothers... :o)

Baby Pictures

Daniel

Jeremiah

***

Needing a lift after all this paperwork meltdown.

:o)

A Glitch updated

We've had our first glitch. I'm sure there will be more throughout this process, and it will probably be frustrating for me. I am trying to remain calm and still before God knowing full well He is who He says He is.

"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

I've been thinking this morning, that the above verse is probably better suited to this whole process than the one I put in the banner above. 1 Thess 5:24 is not in context up there. That verse is talking about when the Lord calls you, He is faithful to sanctify you. He will do it. I am here to say. He's doing it. He's sanctifying me this very moment. How you ask? Let me tell you.

My birth certificate that was issued after my adoption is wrong. ARRrrRRrrrRg. There's nothing for me to do except get it fixed which requires a trip to Houston and a trip to Austin. This process could go quickly or not. The State could see their error and fix it or require a legal name change...in which case my maiden name would be the same as my married name which means I would not have the same last name as my Dad who adopted me. See how this is crazy?

In reading over the adoption decree last night, (and I am totally confused at this point) it may have been recorded incorrectly as well. If that's the case, I don't know what happens! Am I readopted? Or does the lawyer just amend the paperwork? I just don't know.

UPDATE**

It is in fact my adoption decree. How it all reads on all the documents is my married name is my adopted last name. Which obviously incorrect, as one cannot be married when they're a child. SO! We wait. The Lawyer is looking into it. He says the fixing process is not a big deal. However, I have no clue how long it will take. I've asked if there's a way to expedite the process. I also have no clue how this much will cost. But it really doesn't matter the cost, it really must be done. All my records need to match for more than the adoption. It's a good thing this was found now and not later!!!

Today, I'm headed back to our courthouse to show the clerk all I have and see what she can make of it.

Please pray that this whole mess can be straightened out simply and quickly...while I remain still in the confidence that He is God. He is my GOD, whom I serve. He will work on my behalf in a way that best glorifies Him.

J and D,

"Be still and know that I Am God." Psalm 46:10 God is in total control. Daddy and Mommy have faith in that very fact!

~Mommy

Disappointment

On Saturday, I emailed the orphanage director with a prayer request. I asked her to pray about taking Josh and Caleb with us to Uganda. Everyone stateside says, "Take them!" We say, "We want to!" However, when I asked her to pray about us taking them, I also asked the Lord to guide us with her answer. Not only did she pray, but her husband, and several board members. They all said, "No". She gave some reasons. I am sure I could cause a stink and force my way. However, I did ask the Lord to guide us through her answer. So now I must trust the Lord that He did indeed guide us for the best. I am very disappointed. They both want to go so badly. I think it would be wonderful for them. But God thinks differently and I must, beyond a shadow of doubt trust He is for our good and not evil. He is. He is for our good.

Jeremiah and Daniel,

Please know your brothers wanted to come to Uganda to meet you. They wanted to see where you have lived for the first 4 years of your life, to see your homeland, culture---although I don't think they realize what that means exactly. :o) It was a way for them to get to know you better and to understand from where you come. They are very excited for you to come home.

~Mommy

Stamp of Approval *Updated*

Whew. We had our homestudy today. WOWZERS folks. It was looooong. Our social worker who is very friendly and personable loves to visit!

She started with the boys and asked all sorts of questions just to get to know them better. She asked how they felt about the adoption, Joshua said he will be excited once his brothers get here. Caleb said he is really happy and scared all at the same time.

Caleb donated some of his gift money to the adoption. I was so humbled. He really wanted to give us some of his money. He is such a generous boy.

*Update* I forgot to mention (due to jello brain from the HS) that two families from church helped fund a good portion of the HS + the $$ we scraped together. God is good! Thank you friends--you know who you are!

Lots of processing to do and I am just wiped out from it all. We are so happy all went well and look forward taking the next step.