Licht Family Adoption

Updates

2010-11-03T06:58:00.005-05:00

Wow, this has been a busy few months and I am sorry I have not updated.

During my surgery, they did find cancer in the lymph nodes. (11 out of 27). So I had to do radiation and chemo. I finished the radiation and first part of chemo last week. It seemed to go well, I had minor symptoms. I have a break until Dec 6th. They did a pet scan right before I started radiation and it was completely clear (they did not see it in anymore lymph nodes).

Because of the chemo and radiation, we have moved into my parents home and are renting the large house from them. It has been a blessing to have help and just support so close. They are in the poolhouse.

The girls are doing great! Leah was saved a couple of weeks ago and has changed so much. She is excited about her upcoming birthday party and new bunny she is getting. I will put some pictures up soon.

The big "C" and God's grace

2010-07-23T23:11:00.002-05:00

The girls have been doing well. They enjoyed camp and made some new friends. They seem to be more interested in their Bibles and follow along during church. Rebekah keeps talking about her upcoming birthday and everything she wants. It should be fun.

We had a pretty big trial this past week, but God's grace was smothering it. I had been having some issues since Russia and after ruling out other things, I went in for a colonoscopy last Friday. Well, it turns out I have colon cancer. They did a biopsy and it was cancer. I had some other lab work done and a ct scan and found out yesterday that the ct scan did not even see the tumor. And my CEA was 0.8 (normal is 0-2.5, above that indicates a tumor). So I will have surgery on Thursday and no radiation or chem0, unless they find something else during the surgery.

God has given me such a peace about this. Even before yesterday, I just knew it would be fine and whatever happened was good because it was God's plan and His way is always the right way. I cannot even describe the peace.

The timing was incredible. I would not have a colonoscopy normally until 40, being that I am 38, I was not even due yet. I needed symptoms to know there was a need. If God would have allowed symptoms last year, my girls may still be stuck in Russia. Instead, right after we finalized and I was in Russia, I started having symptoms. It was like God was saying, "Ok, your girls are safe, now I have something you need to know!"

I pray for God to be able to get glory through this and that through my testimony, someone might be saved (physically, spiritually, or both!)

Happy Forth of July!

2010-07-04T22:06:00.002-05:00

The Forth of July has so much more meaning to me this year. My son is serving in the Marines and I think of him when I see the videos of all the men and women in uniform. I have a new grand baby this year. This was his first forth celebration. I was told he liked it. I missed it. I wish he were here.

This year our girls were able to celebrate their first Forth of July as citizens of the United States of America. I know they did not understand the significance of today, but it was very exciting to see them watch the fireworks waving an American flag.

Our church has a wonderful fellowship and great fireworks display. We even had some new friends we met through a mutual friend that are Belorussians and speak Russian. It was a wonderful day.

Rebekah was a little sad that she was unable to jump on the Jupiter jumps due to her broken elbow, but it soon disappeared when our Russian speaking friends came. She also loved the fireworks and when they were over asked if there were more!

I am so blessed that God has given me such a wonderful family, extended family, and friends that fulfill my life! I think this time last year, Susha (Rebekah) was here on a Russian Lighthouse trip. We did not know when she would come back and were already terribly missing Leah. There were many doubts that we would be able to be approved because of our income being so borderline. I knew God was in control, but I had no idea how He would fix it. Now I am sitting here typing about our girls (and being interrupted to go pray with them). I can't imagine life getting any better than this.

Thank you Lord and thank you to all of you that have prayed for us!

Check ups!

2010-06-19T05:25:00.002-05:00

The girls have been doing so well lately. These last 6 weeks have been so wonderful. There are rarely melt downs anymore and if they occur, they are short lived. I was concerned when school was out that I would be overwhelmed, but it has not been bad at all. I have thoroughly enjoyed it!

The girls went to multiple check ups. Our insurance finally got everything straight. We went to the doctor, who does not think they are mentally slow at all (maybe learning disabled), he does not think they Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, and they both passed their hearing test with flying colors (so the loud talking must just be a cultural thing.) He also does not think they have scoliosis.

At the dentist, there are several cavities and a couple of crowns to be done, but should be able to be preformed under conscious sedation and all in one trip. The orthodontist said that both girls need braces, no surprise there. They think because of how severe Leah's is, that the insurance will cover 100%. Susha's will probably only cover $1500 of the $4000, but it is better than nothing. They will get them on in 2-3 months.

The girls leave for camp tomorrow morning. There is a Russian Church camp that we were told about by a friend. The theme is the life of Paul. It sounds pretty fun. I am excited for the girls. I think it will be good for the girls to see that these children are Russian, but act a certain way. Leah will know a couple of the kids going. I am going to miss them so much though.

I think next year, I may let Sarah go, she will probably speak Russian by then lol. The little girls have been learning a lot of Russian. Often times, Chloe or Sarah will be talking to Susha in Russian and Susha will say "Da", and seems to totally understand. The other day, I was in the other room and Chloe yells, "Momma, Susha told me to 'shut up' ." So Susha says in English, "No, Russian" So apparently she told her to 'shut up' in Russian. I explained that she cannot say it in either language.

I think back to those first few weeks, in Moscow and here, and remember questioning if I could do this. I wish I would have known then how short the trying times would be. This is amazing. I was filling out paperwork the other day for the doctor's office and remember back to the adoption and thought, "I could do this again" It was a brief thought and if God calls us to adopt again, I pray it is a very long time from now, but If you would have asked me in those first 2 weeks if this would happen again, the answer would have been a very firm, "No!"

Lightning and the making of a family.

2010-05-12T22:29:00.003-05:00

Things have been going so well the past few days. After our trouble on Thursday, it seems everything is falling into place. Leah is doing so well with her own room and I found something she likes to do and it has given me the opportunity to bond with her. She loves making jewelry with beads and she is very good at it. We have worked together a few times and today I bought her some wire and some more beads and she was thrilled. She has been so wonderful with the girls and playing with them and seems to even enjoy Jacob. We are getting closer and they are both really learning English.

I have been having a little more trouble with connecting with Susha. There have been little ways we have bonded, but she still will not let me help her with anything. That is until tonight. We had a thunderstorm come through and it brought some lightning and loud thunder. Apparently Susha is very afraid of thunder. She came in the room after being tucked in crying and shaking. I helped her and comforted her and we went to see what was wrong and she showed me the lightning. We used the translator on the computer and told her how it is safe and we will protect her. She asked to sleep on the couch outside our room. So after we calmed her down, we tucked her in on the couch. We left the door open to help reassure her and Lloyd had not gone to bed yet. A few moment later a loud crash and a pretty good flash happened and within seconds, I had a little pixie in my bed. I tucked her in and we snuggled until the storm passed. She needed to go to the restroom once, but was afraid and needed me to hold her hand and escort her to the bathroom. It was sweet. She calmed and relaxed next to me and for the first time, I felt like she let me be her mother. After the storm passed, she was able to go back to the couch and was fine, but there are more storms coming, so we will leave the door open.

I hope in the future she will learn to not be afraid of the storms, but for now, I am happy for the experience of being able to comfort her and protect her. Thank you Lord for all the ways you are letting us become a family.

New bedrooms

2010-05-07T23:01:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was a very difficult day. We had some issues that multiplied because the girls were pushing each other higher and higher. Susha was very difficult and angry. I had never seen her like that. I had a very difficult time (have a nice little scar to prove it) and first called my dear friend that is working through similar issues. She is always a blessing and her prayers always give me peace and remind me Who is in control.....

My second call was to my mom. I cried and was so tired and lost and did not know what to do. She let two of the girls stay the night (Chloe and Leah). Leah loved it and Susha was upset. I wrote a letter that I translated that explained that she could not stay the night because she disobeyed in the morning. (Really we just needed them separated for a bit. They are much better separated.) After Susha realized that acting mean turns out to not be in her favor, she was great. Leah was also very good for my mom and it gave Chloe and Leah time to bond and Sarah and Susha. Sarah and Susha decided to clean their room and it was amazing.

Mom drove Leah to school this morning and Susha was perfect without her sister there. It was peaceful and quiet. There was a program at school and Sarah sang and the children all were able to sit with me. It was wonderful. Susha saw Sarah on stage and asked, "That is my sister?" I answered yes and she smiled really big. Leah's classmates started the program and talked about the two new girls in school that spoke Russian and how they were learning some Russian words. They explained how to say, "Please" "Thank you " "I don't understand" and "Hello" in Russian. The girls smiled so big and their eyes were so huge.

After school we had occupation therapy for Jacob and the ladies were able to look at the girls a little. We will need more English before we can start. Then we went to a Mother/ Daughter banquet at my grandma's church. It is a small church and there were probably 25-30 ladies there, but one of them happened to be Russian. She was a foreign exchange student, that came back. She was very helpful and translated well for us. We talked about braces and how they hurt a little when they tighten them and phones and many other things. It was great to hear some of what they were thinking.

We decided that it was probably in the best interest of everyone that Leah and Susha not share a room. That way, things can be calmer at bedtime and there will not be loud Russian in the room where the little girls are trying to sleep. So we cleaned out the office (mostly; my crafting and sewing are still in there.) and put Leah's bed and dresser in there. They came home from school and Leah LOVED her room. She was thrilled. I tried to explain that the sewing and crafting was in there just until I could figure out a space for it, but she put a chair up to the table and said she liked it, this was her spot and that was mine. So after the little ones were in bed, Leah and I made beaded bracelets for her sisters and friends. It was a great night.

I cannot believe how much easier this night was. She even reminded me to pray with her after she asked for a hug. Susha also gave me a big hug and a smile and "I love you"

Nights like these remind me why we did this. I feel so blessed. Thank you Lord for Your strength and wisdom. I know I can do ANYTHING with YOUR help, please keep reminding me that.

"Good Job"

2010-05-04T18:17:00.002-05:00

What a difference a day makes. I never know if it is my perspective, or their actions, but this evening was much better.

First Susha was throwing a little tantrum. She was tired and just complaining about everything. I made her sit on her bed, which seems to work well. She was very angry. Leah, was very sweet and helping me. Finally I had Susha in my room and she is pouting and yelling and I just picked her up in my arms and held her like a baby and started rocking and "shhhhing." She melted. She relaxed and let me rock her for 10 minutes or so. Then she was great the rest of the night. So, I found a way to calm the beast lol.

I made dinner and after all the plates were set and we had prayed, I went to sit down and first Susha, then Leah said, in English, "Good job!" I about fell over! It was sweet. We had a great meal and it was very pleasant. Note to self: chicken, corn and potatoes, GOOD CHOICE.

School

2010-05-04T10:29:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was the start of a new chapter in the girl's lives. They started school. I believe the anticiation of school was much harder on them than school. Leah was not really wanting to go, as she told us at least 100 times on our way. She did go, but was not happy about it. Susha seemed to play off of her.

We spent at least 30 minutes in the office first. The transportation department did not want to add two more to the bus (even though they are already picking up Sarah and Jacob). The principal was great and was trying to fight to get them added to no avail. So for the last 4 weeks of school I have to drive them and pick them up. It is about a 20 minute drive. Lloyd will take them in the morning on his way to work and I will pick them up. We kept our two places on the bus just in case, which has actually proved to be a blessing as I will explain later! So after the mess in the office, we started taking the girls to class. I asked that we put Leah in first because I knew once she was not complaining, we had a chance to make Susha more comfortable. Leah went in complaining how she did not even understand. Her teacher was nice and several girls tried to help her.

As we walked to the other end of the school you could see Susha getting a little nervous, but she softened without the influence of her sister. She slipped her hand into mine. (and put her thumb into her mouth). I reasurred her and when we got there her teacher came out and was very nice and we talked a little and a sweet little girl came up and showed Susha to her desk. She hugged me good bye and smiled.

I checked throughout the day and was told they were really doing well. When I picked them up Susha's teacher told me how great she did. They had a little trouble with Leah (wanting to retreat to the hall), but overall she was good as well. The kids all thought they were the neatest things and they made many friends.

So we get into the car and Susha is telling how fun school was and what she ate and her friends and what they did. She had some homework. Leah was complaining that they just said "no,no,no,no" Lol, I wonder why.... After the conversation back and forth, Leah informed me that she wanted to go into Susha's class. Later, with the aid of the translator program, I explained that because of her age, they would not allow me to put her in 3rd grade and how her teacher is just as nice, Susha just had a very good attitude and did not yell at everyone. And how if Leah went to school with a good attitude, she would also have fun. It was her choice.

I had to explain it again, because she had an attitude in the morning and was making Susha not want to go to school. I took Susha asside and with the computer program explained that Leah is just scared and there is no reason to be, because noone will hurt her. And that if Susha lets Leah give her a bad attitude, she will not have a good day either. It seemed to help for a bit until we left the room and Leah started talking to her again.

So, I gathered up Susha, Jacob, and Sarah and took them to school and let her ride with Lloyd. Susha was great in the car and gave me a chance to reassure her. Lloyd also said that as soon as Susha left, Leah was good.

So new plan! (Here is where it may have been a blessing that we only have two spots on the bus....) Susha and Jacob are morning people, they need little sleep. They wake early and are ready to go. Sarah and Leah need as much sleep as they can get or they are very grumpy. So we will let Susha have Sarah's spot on the bus and let Jacob and her ride the bus in the morning and as soon as they leave, we will wake the other two up and drive them to school. Susha will not have to hear Leah complaining and Leah will have noone to complain to and school will start out much better!

Some times the little things we fight against, are really God trying to bless us. I fought so hard for the bus seats. I thought it would add so much stress to my life, trying to drive them to school, BUT it seems it may have been the best possible answer.

What is so funny is that is what the girls do. They fight us so much and we just want what is best for them and to love them and to bless them, but every step of the way they fight our blessings. It is very hard and frustrating and then I think this is EXACTLY what we do to God. He sent His son, sacrificed Him for US, for the world, that laughs in His face, curses Him, and denies Him. Yet He still loves us and would do it again. Just as I still love these girls and will continue to fight (even against them) to do what is best for them.....

Great and bad days?

2010-05-02T21:47:00.003-05:00

We have had mostly good days since we have been back. There have been 3 really bad days. One was the day we enrolled them in school. The other was the day I had to go to a court house for a matter related to my first adoption. The 3rd day was today. They know they are going to start school tomorrow, and I am sure that makes them anxious. It is very frustrating for me though. We had a great day and they got to go to a birthday party after morning church and everything seemed fine, but then the evening just went downhill.....

The end was the worse. The girls were telling me that Sarah or Chloe took Leah's gulf ball (that they begged from a lawyer at the courthouse). The girls said they didn't. We looked all over the house and they were complaining and complaining. We looked everywhere. Leah was pouting and pointing at the little girls and yelling at us. They then started complaining about Chloe watching one of "their" movies. I had already explained that I bought them for everyone, a concept that they just cannot seem to understand, or just do not want to. Then they managed to yell in Lloyd's face and laugh at him. Oh and then Susha found the ball under Leah's bed. She clearly realized she made a mistake, but when I mentioned the need to apologize to the little girls, they would have none of it.

I just hate how such a great day can end so badly over something so little. I realize the bigger picture is the anxiety about school, but it is so hard to deal with when you are tired. I know this will get better, but I am so tired. They have not got the idea of how to clean anything (well Susha will clean her room). I feel like a slave, constantly cleaning after them. I hand them cloths to put away and find them laying on the floor in the room. I put clothes in the drawers to come in and see they have decided to look through them and put them all on the floor. Leah's favorite word is "I don't want to" I am very surprised that she has not learned that in English yet........

Please pray for strength and knowledge for us to know how to deal with it. I need respect, but I also understand this is not a normal situation.

Beautiful new English words.

2010-04-29T21:07:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was such a good day. The girls were happy and we had no issues at all. Today I had to work for the first time. I had to teach an all day class at the hospital. I was very nervous about it. The kids all went to my mothers and she brought them up for lunch, it was nice. After class I went over to her house and the kids rode their bikes and played and even swam a little (the pool just got opened up, but it is too cold for me!)

We were sitting around and Susha came up to me and as clear as can be said, "I love you momma" in English. I about cried. I told her in English and Russian (to make sure she knew what she was saying.) It was a great moment.

Then later we came home and the kids all had showers and Leah was the last one in and I was on the phone with my friend Valerie and she walked in with arms open wide and said "Hug" and gave me a huge bed time hug and said "Good night"

I just feel so blessed. Every day is getting better. I love our new English words!

The Licht House Choir

2010-04-27T09:50:00.002-05:00

This morning has been very busy. The girls have been very loud and Brandon and my friend's daughter are trying to do school. It has been difficult. After things settled and Brandon needed a break from school, I thought I would take the moment to have a hot bath.

So I am sitting in the tub as it is filling and it is so quiet and relaxing. The tub fills and I turn off the water to hear a very loud chorus in the other room. Brandon is singing to his ipod very loudly, Leah and Susha are singing louder to their mp3 players in Russian and Chloe is singing a song she learn in Sunday school. They seemed to be competing for who could be the loudest.

My first thought was to be annoyed that my relaxing bath was disturbed, but then I thought how rare to be able to hear such a choir. They were happily singing their hearts out and I was able to listen. So even though they were not singing the same song, or in the same key, or even in the same language, it was the most beautiful music I could ever here. I only wish Jacob and Sarah would have been here to join in.

What a unique situation we are in and how truly blessed we are.

We are HOME!

2010-04-23T11:31:00.002-05:00

We are home. I am so happy. We got the first flight they opened up! Then we had two standby flights that we got on. It was close all the way. We almost missed the Dallas to Tulsa flight because our Houston flight was late.

The kids were not so great on the plane or the airport. They have been much better since they got home. The kids are getting along great and we have settled in some. Leah's attitude has changed completely. I wonder if she had so much anxiety about what it would be like, but she is so much calmer and happier now. Susha is still very busy, but seems to have calmed some.

We have to get school uniforms for the girls and I think we will keep them home this next week and maybe go visit the school a few times and enroll, but start the next week. I would wait longer, but there are not many days left and I want them to get some English quickly. I worry about Rebekah at school. She is so hyper! I guess we will play that one by ear. I cannot believe the difference. My friends told me it would be easier at home, it is......

We are finally coming home!

2010-04-21T10:03:00.002-05:00

So we got on the first open flight Singapore had. I am so happy! I thought it would be this weekend. We will be in Houston Thursday afternoon. The girls will be American citizens! We may or may not get to go to Tulsa. They flight is full, but they put us on stand by. If we don't make it on the two flights Thursday, we have a cofirmed flight Friday morning.

We have has a great time here at Marina's, though she spoils the girls lol! She is like a fun aunt! It is nice for me though. I know I will have my hands full when I do not have her anymore, but I will have my husband, my family, and my friends. I miss my babies so much! I cannot wait to see everyone!

Money and food.

2010-04-19T21:35:00.002-05:00

We have been staying with a family that has an adorable little boy. When we go out, he talks to anyone and tell them everything. Well Susha has obviously been watching. I gave them each 10 roubles to spend in the corner store. They got some peanuts and sunflower seeds etc, Susha spent all hers. She saw this man and asked his name. He told her. She told him hers and all about her new sister Leah. Then she proceeded to ask if he had money. He showed her as she asks if she can have some. He gave her 30 roubles (about a dollar). I guess if we get stuck here so long that we run out of money, she can see us through lol! Now she has enough peanuts and sunflower seends to feed all of Russia!

The girls do not seem to like Russian food. When we were in Chuboksary we stayed with a family and the girls would not eat. Here in Moscow we have been cooking and they have eaten great. We went to My MY (pronounced Moo Moo) last night, which has amazing Russian food, and the girls did not want to eat anything. I guess that will make transition easier.

Bed time was so sweet. I tucked the girls in and prayed and gave them hugs and kisses and Leah read out loud for 10 minutes and Susha fell asleep listening. It is moments like these that make this all worth it!

Thanks again for prayers!

God is good

2010-04-19T13:02:00.002-05:00

Thank you for all the prayers. I have such a peace today. Things have been kind of crazy, but it was a very good day. I am resting in the Lord and I will see what He wants from me.

I spoke with Singapore airlines and there is a chance we can get on the Thursday flight. We might get priority because of the adoption issues here in Russia. They were very understanding. I should find out tomorrow when we are booked.

We got the girls passports back today. We have everything we need to leave (other than a flight home lol). I am looking forward to being at Marinas. It will be nice having someone there to translate. I am just very ready to be home!

We would still love all the prayers we can get!

My brother said something I found very funny today in an email. I just love it:

"So, in your trips to Russia you’ve had a terrorist attack that made worldwide headlines, an adoptions scandal that made worldwide headlines, and a volcanic cloud that’s made worldwide headlines."

It does seem strange. There is more, but I do not have time to go into all the "weird" things that have happened.

I do have a confession and a conviction. I was having my little melt down yesterday and feeling sorry for myself and stressing over my situation when I got an email from someone saying they were praying for me. This person is in the middle of their adoption. Their papers are in court, they are waiting for a date. They are not sure with everything going on when they will get a date, or if they do that they would be able to fly here and it hit me..... I have NO RIGHT to complain. My girls are with me. They are legally mine. They can leave the country. It just may take more time. I am blessed beyond all means and it could have been much worse. Thank you for the perspective, I really needed that! It is hard, but I have so many people praying for me and the girls. I know this is covered in God's grace!

This is very hard

2010-04-18T12:05:00.002-05:00

I am wondering what happened to the honeymoon phase? I think we skipped it. I am not sure I can do this alone. I need my husband. I cannot believe I am stuck her for who knows how long. Lord, I pray for strength. I cannot do this alone. I need you.

The US Embassy and the Russian Consolate.

2010-04-16T01:50:00.002-05:00

So yesterday we had out appointment at the US Embassy. It was interesting. While we were there, a man came up to Leah, said something to her and handed her a CD. We were all confused. Her eyes were huge, but we had no idea the significance of what happened. It was clearly him on the CD, but we did not know who he was. So she comes to the apartment and puts it in the player and immedicately starts singing along to the CD.

So we assume this is someone, but who? So I google Nicolai Baskov. Well, it turns out, he is a very famous Russian singer. He sings opera and pop music. He won entertainer of the year in 2009 in Russia and the Ukrain. I think I saw on his website that he is touring in America, which would explain why he was inside the US embassy. So what are the chances. No wonder Leah's eyes were so wide.

Back to the adoption..... So we take the girls' visas to be registered at the Russian Consulate. I was very nervous with everything going on, but the man we spoke with was very pleasant. He wrote a bunch of stuff down and then had us sign something (a log or something) and we were done in about 10 minutes.

We are planning to go to the Kremlin tonight and St Basal's, maybe the zoo tomorrow and the flea market Sunday. I am trying to talk Leah into the Ballet, but not sure how that will happen. There are also many ballets closed right now, so it is hard to find something.

On another note. We are praying that the Iceland volcano stops spewing ash. It is right in our flight path and our airlines has cancelled yesterday and today's flights already, hopefully it will clear by Tuesday. I also assume we will have a full flight!

Russia, Day two

2010-04-14T13:24:00.002-05:00

So the girls came in this morning and we settled in a few minutes and then headed off to the medical center for the girls' appointments. They did great. Rebekah was a little hesitant, until the doctor told her there were no needles envolved, then she was fine.

After the medicals we headed over to the US Embassy to get their visas. After that we had to go register mine. Apparently if you rent through gotorussia.com, they do not do it for free and you have to go to their office. Oh well, it is done.

Then we came back and had lunch. Another family is here adopting a little boy and because we have all the same appointments and the apartment is so big, we offered to let them stay with us and they did. It is nice having more adults around and their little boys is a doll! So after lunch, the mom and I went to do some grocery shopping and then we played at the park some. After dinner, we played a few games and then off to bed.

Leah is so grown up, she enjoyed reading and doing math workbooks. Rebekah has two speeds, lightning fast, and dead asleep. She was at top speed all day long. I was exhausted watching her. After 5 seconds still on the pillow, she was OUT!

So instead of getting much needed sleep, I am here on the computer. Sign, I may learn someday!

Russia, Day one

2010-04-13T04:01:00.002-05:00

Well, we arrived to the apartment in Moscow yesterday evening. We went to a corner store and got a few supplies to last us through the night: water, bread, cheese and meat etc. We stayed up as late as possible and then crashed for the night.

Today Brandon and I went out to the grocery store, but since we were so close to Arbat street, we made a little detour. We got a few things and then headed to the store. We found everything we needed and stocked up for a couple of days, but not too much, enough that we could 1 mile.

We came back and had lunch and are going to go back out for a bit.

We were told to keep a low profile, but with the girls not here yet, things seem to be the same as my last trip. People are actually more pleasant. Maybe because I am not so clueless now (like trying to take things from one part of the store to the next lol).

The girls will be here in the morning! I cannot wait. I miss them. We will go straight to the medical center and then the embassy. Sometime I need to go register my Visa, not sure how to do that. Valerie is on it for me. I just love Valerie!

Thanks for all the prayers!

We know our travel dates!

2010-04-07T05:41:00.003-05:00

Brandon and I will be leaving this Sunday morning to travel back to Russia. Lloyd is sad that he cannot go, but he does not have enough days off and one of us needs to be here with the little ones. They are very sad to be away from us. I think this will be a good experience for Brandon though.

We arrive Monday afternoon and will go to the apartment we rented. Travelling a day early made it possible to fly Singapore and it is still cheaper even with the extra night. I loved flying Singapore, and now I know the flights and gates, so the trip home with the girls will be much easier!

We have to be in Moscow on Tuesday so they can go to get the girls. They should be brought to us on Wednesday. That actually gives Brandon and I some time to recover from the flight, get groceries and settle in before the girls arrive.

When the girls arrive, we do their medical exams and the US embassy stuff. We stay until the next Tuesday and you cannot do anything on the weekends so we should have plenty of sight seeing time.

We should arrive in Tulsa on Tuesday, April 20 at 7:55pm. American Airlines from Dallas. Anyone is welcome to come greet the girls. I am glad our flight is not coming in too super late. I know many families that travelled, came in around 10.

I am excited. The apartment has free Internet, so I am hoping to be able to keep this updated, but with two girls in tow, I am not sure how much I will get done! I will try and post pictures as well.

Thank you to all that have followed this journey and helped in so many ways. We could not have done this without you!

Back!!!

2010-04-03T21:11:00.002-05:00

We are back! We are officially the parent of two great girls! We have to go back in 10 days to get them. We just got into the house and we are pretty wiped, we went from court almost directly to the train and then from the train to the plane. It is amazing to think we were in Russia yesterday......

In Moscow!

2010-03-28T11:07:00.002-05:00

We are finally in our hostel. It feels got o not be moving. We have given away most of the money. Neither one of us lost any lol. WE are going to find a place to eat, then probably crash for the night. We have not hooked up with the rest of the group yet, we might try and eat dinner where they do. We have medical exams tomorrow and then leave Tuesday for the region.

We have a court date!!!!

2010-03-04T14:41:00.005-06:00

April 2nd!!!

We have to be in Russia on March 28th! Almost a year exactly since we first met Lima. I can't believe it! I am so excited. MY head is swimming. I started to wonder if this day would ever come. There were moments in this process that I wanted to give up, but I trusted in the Lord and He proved himself over and over!

It is funny, yesterday our pastor preached a great sermon about not giving up and the prize at the end of the race. Wow, his timing was amazing!

Thank you for all your prayers!

Another update. It turns out we will be in Moscow the same time as the Lighthouse trip! We are hopefully going to stay with them the nights we are there! What amazing timing. We can do some siteseeing with them as well and then more than likely we will ride in the train with the kids when they head back to Chuvashia!

Court!

2010-02-25T13:24:00.001-06:00

I found out today our documents are at court! So now we just wait for a date. I am praying it is soon. I am so excited and getting impatient. It is getting harder to wait the closer we get. I want to go in March, but it still could be later, probably will be later, but I do know that it is God's timing and I want His not mine!

Paperwork paperwork!

2010-02-24T04:41:00.002-06:00

Well, the paperwork has all been appostilled and sent to Valerie. I hope this is the last of it. The way things are changing, who knows. I just wish they would hurry and get a court date before the judge decides to add something else.

I miss the girls so much. I just can't wait for our family to all finally be together. A dear friend reminded me that the longer it takes, the warmer it gets in Russia. So I guess that is one blessing to think about. Travelling in March or April is certainly better than Feb I suppose. Though I would brave the cold for my girls.

Still waiting!

2010-02-20T08:51:00.002-06:00

Well, we thought we were weeks away from travelling, but it may be months. I know it is God's timing, but it is so hard to wait. It will be 1 year since we have seen Lima last. I am sure she has changed so much and I have so very little time left with the girls before they grow and start their own lives, a year is a long time of that.

The judge is requiring yet another paper and the doctors office put an expired license in the updated medicals, so we have to get those redone (it has been over a week and the office still has not got them ready). After we send those off on Monday or Tuesday (I hope), then we will have everything there.

I was told that we get data base slips back any day now, but it can take 1-2 months to get a court date AFTER that. I just pray that it happens soon. I am so ready. I think the other children are starting to doubt it will ever happen. Chloe keeps asking when they are coming. I think I am starting to doubt it too. I just have to rest in the Lord and know it is His time and His time is right.

Now starts the race!

2010-01-15T06:59:00.003-06:00

Well, we got a call from Valerie and the last bit of paperwork is needed! We are redoing our police clearance and our medicals (they expire) and our letter to the Supreme Court. We are just waiting on database slips and then we get our court date.

I am leaving for Virginia the 23rd (welcoming my new grandbaby) and so I have to get this all gathered together before I leave so Lloyd does not have to do it.

I also have to get the Visa application ready so that as soon as we know our date, I can send it off.

Russia is now requiring another medical to be done here, with xrays and everything that we have to bring to their medical center! I sure wish our insurance covered yearly check ups, stupid Blue Cross! We are still paying on the last set of physicals and blood tests.

Just found out I will be needing to take $27,000 cash to Russia, that is a scary thought to me. I have never seen that much cash!

I know God is in control and He will provide everything and it is in His timing. I am just a little, well a lot overwhelmed right now.

It's funny, I was talking to a dear friend that has already brought their children home and we were remembering back at how overwhelming we thought the beginning was. We now know that was nothing lol. But God has seen us through this so far, He will continue to carry us through.

Pray that the judge will waive the 10 day waiting period for us, that will save a lot of money!

Update

2009-12-11T07:14:00.002-06:00

Well, it has been a while since I updated and I thought it might be time. We have sent all our documents to Valerie and they should be getting sent to Russia today or tomorrow. It looks like it will still happen some time in February. I am trying to stay busy and not think about how far away that is.

I miss my girls so much. I know Lima will be so different, I hope she remembers us. I hope she likes Susha and the other children. She has not me them yet. I worry that she will think she is just moving to a different orphanage, with all our children lol. I think she has been asked already and said yes to our adoption. Valerie is double checking that.

The next couple of months are going to be crazy. Matthew (my son) and Aleasha (his wife) are going to have a baby in Jan/beginning of February. Matt is stationed in Virginia so I will be going out there for the birth and will probably be home just a few weeks before we go to Russia.

God has set so many thing in motion. He has sent people that have been such a blessing in so many ways. I just hope that we can get our girls soon and we can melt into the family God has set for us.

I-171H

2009-10-06T13:24:00.001-05:00

We got our USCIS approval in the mail today! I am so happy. This is really going to happen. The girls will be coming HOME!!

Hosting again!

2009-08-04T09:58:00.005-05:00

Well, we will be hosting another child/children this August. The Russian Orphan Lighthouse project is doing a trip to Tulsa the 21st through the 31st. They are in need of host families, even if they are not interested in adopting. This will get the children here to meet potential familes as well as letting them hear the gospel. It is a great program.

We will not be able to adopt this time. They will not approve 3 unrelated children. But at least we can be a part of helping another orphan find a permanent home!

http://russianorphanlighthouseproject.blogspot.com/

We do not know who we will be hosting yet! It is exciting!

Thank you for the prayers

2009-07-14T09:56:00.002-05:00

I want to thank everyone for the prayers. Susha did well leaving and the trip to St Louis was great, they slept the whole time. I managed to hold it together until she was out of site.

I know God has both girls in His hands and I have to rest in that, though it is so hard.

I hope we get our homestudy soon so we can get this done quicker.

I need prayers!!!

2009-07-12T06:43:00.003-05:00

I have really been dreading putting Susha on the plane tomorrow morning. I think because I have done this once before, I know how bad it hurts. She has become pretty attached to us and I am afraid she will think we don't want her anymore. Instead we will be here working like mad to get her home!

I want to be strong for her, please pray that I can be. I am not sure if it is because she is younger than Lima was, or because she seems more emotional immature, but I am so worried for her heart. I know God has a plan in all this, but I cannot imagine how hard this is going to be on my little baby. Or on me........

Tulsa Area Russian Adoption Meetup

2009-07-09T20:22:00.002-05:00

We just came home from a meet up with other families adopting through the Lighthouse Program. It was very productive. It is great to see people at different places in the process. I got a lot of information that will help so much in bringing our girls home!

I really enjoyed it. The kids were so wild though. They had been in the car since noon. Sarah and Susha had gone with us on the trip to Missouri. It was the first time this week I was truly overwhelmed. I thing when the girls come home, we will plan on staying home for the first few months and work on some manners. Susha did great at church and does fine here, but in other peoples homes she seems to have issues. It is too much distraction.

When it was time to go, I said, "say goodbye" and she thought I was saying goodbye and got a terrified look on her face. After I started leaving with her and she understood, things were fine. She changed in the car and was her normal pleasant self again. It was interesting. I think she just needs some security. I am very worried about how she will be when we have to put her on a plane. I hope she does not hate us and think we have abandoned her for these next several months. I am dreading Sunday.......

I really could use some prayers in that area, that she will understand that this is only a short time and that I will understand that as well.

Susha Pictures!

2009-07-09T09:01:00.008-05:00

We are having a great visit with Susha. We picked her up from the St Louis airport on the 3rd and she was not very happy on the way back from the airport. We had to call the translator 3 times to calm her down. Once we got home and she met the other children, she did great.

Sunday we had a Independence Day celebration at church and she had so much fun. Then we have been to the zoo and swimming. We took a trip back to Missouri for the Lighthouse Program. We are tired, but we are enjoying our time! Here are a few pictures of Susha.

Jacob LOVES her so much. He was trying to kiss her nose. I am not sure what she thought about it, but she equally loves him. She also enjoys Brandon alot. He has taught her most of her English words.

Meeting my daughter today!

2009-07-03T07:06:00.002-05:00

This afternoon, when my mom gets off work, we are heading to Missouri to meet my newest daughter. We will get to host her until the 13th. I am very excited. I wonder what she will be like and the things she will want to do.

I worry that she will like us. Allthough it is not as scary as when I went to meet Lima, I know a little more of what to expect.

I have been brushing up on my Russia, but I am still pretty limited.

We are going to come back tomorrow and probably go swimming at my moms and then Sunday our church has a big forth of July get together and fireworks display. Everyone is welcome to come. Eastland Baptist Church at 21st and 129th! Church is at 6 and then we will have hot dogs and dessert, bouncy things for the kids and volleyball and then at dark a great fireworks display!

Going to meet our daughter soon!

2009-06-13T08:14:00.003-05:00

We get to go pick up Xenia (AKA Rebekah or Susha) in a few weeks. I am getting so excited. We will have her for a little over a week. I am looking forward to it, I am not looking forward to putting her back on the plane to Russia. I remember how hard it was to put Lima on the plane.

On a good note, we are almost finished with all of our paper work. We are still waiting on the passports (they were supposed to come in last week.) and one more marriage license (we had to get an extra one since we are adopting from a second orphanage. We are also still waiting on the homestudy, which should be finished in a couple of weeks. When it comes I will send off for USCIS approval. We have everything for USCIS ready to go but the homestudy!

It is looking like it will probably be November, but could be sooner that the girls will get to come home permanently. I am taking it one day at a time. I am going to enjoy Susha being here!

I'm gonna be a grandma!!!

2009-05-25T12:39:00.002-05:00

I just found out this morning that my oldest is going to be a new daddy! I am so excited! They will both be amazing parents!

I am sad that they live so far away. I wish they were here. Matt is in the marines and is in North Carolina right now.

I know this is not really adoption related, but Lima and Xenia are gonna be aunts not long after they come home!!

fundraising

2009-05-19T10:00:00.003-05:00

Yesterday the girls and I set out with post cards and letters to work on some fund raising to help the girls get home. We went into 4 stores and were met with "no's" and annoyance. I came back to the car and cried. I then sat there and prayed and asked God for guidance and wisdom and to hold my heart for me.

I had placed a notice on craigslist and got a very hateful email about how if I cannot afford to adopt, then I shouldn't and that they believed it was a scam. It really hurt.

If you do not know me, there is nothing in the world I hate more than needing something from someone and then asking. I don't know if it is my pride or my fierce independence or my feeling not worthy of what they have to offer. I do know that the girls are worthy and God is and He has called us to this. I am sure that God is trying to teach me dependence on Him. After that, instead of going to every store I could find. I let God lead me.

I talked with the manager of Mardels (who was actually surprisingly curt with me. Not at all what I expected) and after we receive a letter from LifeSong for Orphans proving they are a non-profit, we may be able to set up a booth with them. Lloyd talked with his manager and Sam's and we might be able to go there as well. I am excited about it, but at the same time nervous about how I will be able to ask passers by for donations and how I will handle the "no's". I am hoping to get some help. (Brandon, our 15 yr old, is great at asking for money lol.)

What I need is someone to come on board and help me know how to do this. I have never been good at raising money. I am willing to work, I will work hard. I just seem to not be good at it.

God has provided everything we have needed so far, I know he will provide all. I just need to learn to accept it.

You have not, because ye ask not......... Teach me oh Lord, how to ask!

Double blessings

2009-05-13T05:19:00.002-05:00

When God chooses to bless, He always does it in His timing, because He knows what we need and when we need it. A few weeks ago, we were presented with another little girl. She is 9 and probably also has Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. I have always felt there was room for two, Lloyd took some convincing from the Lord. After much prayer and several doors opening, which made this possible, we have decided to try and make her a part of our family as well.

We need lots of prayers for the hurdles that this will add, but so far God has already opened the door and cleared the path. We are hoping to be able to host her this summer in Tulsa. She will come to Missouri and we will be able to pick her up and bring her here. Then when we go to pick up Lima, we can pick her up as well.

I am happy that God has added another blessing to our lives. I think this will help Lima as well. Maybe she will be able to keep her Russia language. The kids are excited. Brandon was hesitant at first, but then gave his "blessing".

Thank you all for all of you support.

Homestudy!

2009-04-20T11:37:00.002-05:00

Well, we have finished the homestudy. It is the first milestone to meet and I am so excited. Our next step is the I-600a. Then to get the documents together for the Dossier.

We are going to set up an appointment to have our psychological evaluation and I am sending off to get copies of our marriage license.

Please continue to pray that everything goes smoothly and quickly so Lima can come home faster!

What's been going on....

2009-04-15T18:33:00.005-05:00

It has been a crazy week since we have been home from the Michigan trip. Putting Lima on the plane back to Russia was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. I managed to keep it together for her benefit, but I was dying inside and that was the longest trip home.

We had such a wonderful time with her. She will fit so well into our family. She has the most wonderful personality with a little spark of independence that reminds me so much of Chloe (and myself when I was younger).

Whe got home late Monday night and we have been running since. We are having our homestudy on Saturday and I have been gathering papers like crazy. Brandon and I also managed to get Matt's old room ready some more. We moved all Matt's stuff to storage, painted, redid the floors and I sewed some curtains. I needed to do something that made me feel we were getting closer. I also unpacked her clothes. It was very hard. I know we have such a long road ahead and I wonder what she is thinking and if she even has an idea of how her life is about to change.

God has been so wonderful in this whole process. We have had many road bumps and He has been there with, at times, true miracles!

Here are a few pictures of the trip and us with Lima:

Michigan Trip

2009-04-03T07:41:00.005-05:00

Well we are having a wonderful time so far on the trip. Lima is everything we expected and more. She is so wonderful and will fit into our family perfectly. She is still somewhat shy, but warming up quickly.

We arrived in Grand Rapids late Friday night and her sister that was adopted my a wonderful family here in Michigan was able to come and visit on Saturday and we shopped for fabric and sewed for the girls. It ened up being such a late night that they decided to spend the night. They stayed until Sunday night. We are going to visit them today at their house.

We leave TOMORROW!

2009-03-25T07:11:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it is finally here. We leave for Michigan tomorrow. We are staying the night at my father in law's Thursday night and then we get to pick Lima up on Friday from Chicago. After we pick her up, we go straight to Michigan and get to spend 10 days with our soon to be daughter! Dropping her off at the airport is going to be so hard. I am not looking forward to it, but through the grace of God, I will have the strength.

The children get to go to a vacation Bible school while they are here and will get Russian Bibles. I pray that many will accept Christ on the trip. It will be interesting to see how Lima is with the other children on the trip. We hope to go to the zoo if the weather is good. I have been told she likes to take pictures. I got her a small camera and thought this would be a good opportunity for her.

I am still working on my Russian and getting a bit better. Maybe Lima will speak some Spanish lol, I would be good then. Lloyd has started learning Russian as well and doing ok so far. He has less time, but when he can squeeze it in, he does.

I am not sure if I will have access to the Internet when we are in Michigan, so I may not get to post anything until when we get back!

As far as the adoption process goes, I have sent off for all the papers I need and am just waiting on a few. Lloyd has his physical on the 8th. Then we should be able to have the homestudy and the next step is getting the Dossier ready. I am not sure how long all of this takes. (this is our first international adoption). It is pretty new to me. I hope to have her home before Christmas, although that may be a high expectation. I would really love to have her home before her birthday (Nov 12).

On a sadder note, with the approaching departure time, I am quickly realizing how hard it is going to be to leave my other babies!! I have never been away from Chloe or Sarah for more than a day. They are excited about going to grandma's, but it is killing me. Jacob will be fine, though he said he will miss me too. The other night he got sad about it. This is HUGE for him. He has Asperger syndrome, a form of autism, and when he was first diagnosed, we never knew what to expect and I am so happy at where he is now. When he sad he was going to miss me and almost cried, I thought back to when I wondered if he would ever say, "I love you" and know what it meant. He does, he is in our world again and I thank God for those blessings.

I think Brandon is going to love spending time at grandmas. He will be getting his permit to drive while we are gone. It is a big milestone I am going to miss. He is fine with it and has been amazing through this process. In the beginning, I was worrying about needing to go to Russia for 3-4 weeks and leave the little ones to a point, that I almost did not want to do this. Brandon said, "you are worrying about your kids not having a mom for 3 weeks and this little girl doesn't even have a mom." I was so proud of him at that moment.

I know this is all worth it. God has a plan for the whole thing. I am so excited to see where He leads us next!

Thank you for your continued prayers!

Getting Excited

2009-03-22T15:17:00.002-05:00

We are just a few short days away from getting to meet the little girl that has stolen our hearts She has become a part of our family and she does not even know us. I just can't wait. I have been packing her clothes and it is making this more real. It is going to be so hard to have to send her back to Russia after getting to spend so much time with her. I am not looking forward to that part. I just pray that all of this paperwork goes by quickly so she can come home for good.

I have spoken with Jacob's occupational therapist and we have a plan for when she comes. It is like the whole family is prepared and ready, we just need her. We really aren't ready, we still have not started on the room. It is still Matt's storage room, but I know there is time.

Lima is going to get to see her sister for the first time in 5 years. She was adopted by a family in Michigan that did not know Lima existed. We have been speaking with the family and have plans to go shopping and let the girls sew some dresses and maybe go to the zoo. I cannot wait for her to get to see her sister.

I have been working on learning Russian and I am starting to pick up some words and learning to read a little.

We are praying about another situation that will also change our family. Please pray for clarity in our decision and to know God's will in this situation and for the strength and courage to follow whatever His will is.

Thank you all for the support you have shown. We really apreciate all of it!

Just thinking

2009-03-08T19:04:00.002-05:00

I was just sitting here thinking. It is so hard waiting and I know there is so much waiting left to do. I just want to be able to tuck her into bed. To hug her, to wipe away tears. I have such a new found respect for parents that adopt this way. With Sarah, she was in my arms while we waited. I tucked her in every night. I always had the thought in the back of my mind, that they could come take her at anytime, BUT I still had her there.

This is so hard. The more I prepare and see pictures, the more I am falling in love with this little girl I have never met. I want to take care of her. I want to be her mom and she doesn't even know it. We get to meet her the end of the month and I am so excited, but it will be so hard not letting her know I am her mom. I understand the need to wait, I would hate for something to happen and her to be let down. She is sitting over there alone with no idea there is an entire family over her loving her.

The children are talking about her alot. We got a video of her and it was wonderful. They are getting to know her a little too. Jacob said today that he wants to play dinosaurs with her. Sarah wants to play house and Chloe wants to play babies. Every morning Sarah asks if we are going to get her today. I guess they are getting impatient too.

I really could use prayers for comfort in this. It is hard feeling like a mother and not getting TO mother.

Fundraising ideas.

2009-03-08T08:42:00.004-05:00

As we are trying to raise money for XXXX's adoption, I started thinking about things I could offer. One of my hobbies is photography. I got the idea to offer prints of some of my favorite photos. I am hoping this will help us a little.

Some of my other talents are web page design, sewing, and anything to do with birthing babies. I am going to see about how I can incorporate those.

We purchased some fundraising candy bars and we will be selling those as well.

Papers, Papers Everywhere!

2009-03-06T07:56:00.002-06:00

Wow, I forgot how much paper work was involved in adopting. I am getting more organized. Maybe when we are finished, I will stay that way. I have organized every other part of my life, I guess it is about time to get papers organized as well.

I am waiting on a call back from the homestudy agency. That is my next step. I have all the application, I just have a few questions for them and we need to set up when they come out.

I have sent in all of the paper work for hosting. That trip is coming soon. I still need to go shopping for some things for our soon to be daughter. A wonderful family that hosted her before has a bunch of clothes for her. That is such a blessing. God is really orchestrating this whole thing!

I want to work on her room, but there are so many other things we have to do right now and I want an idea of what she likes before we do it. I am thinking that will be a great project for when all our paperwork is in and we are waiting on the Russian side. It will give me something to keep my mind off of the wait.

I may be working a couple of weekends coming up. It will be great timing if this works out. It will be about 4 weekends total over a 2 months period. It won't take me away from the children long and it will be much needed money!

We still highly covet your prayers. Help this go smoothly and quickly so she can come over here as soon as possible!

We are getting closer to our trip to Michigan.

2009-03-05T07:45:00.002-06:00

We get to go to Michigan to host her for 9 days. I am looking forward to it. I hope she likes us. I hope we can learn a little Russian before the 27th. We are going to stop by my father in laws on the way to our visit. It will be harder hosting in a state that I do not know, but I am sure it will work out. It is great that we get this opportunity, it will save us a trip to Russia and quite a bit of money.

I would sure appreciate your prayers during this time. The language issue will make it harder, but we will have some translators available at times.

I just can't wait to meet her. We have decided on an American name for her. At least a first name. It will be Rebekah. We are working on a middle name. Rebekah is a name I have always loved and the lady that has been such a blessing to us during this, is Rebekah. If she decides she like the name, I will start referring to her as Rebekah. Until then, I am told not to use her name.

I am working on all the paper work for the adopting application and the homestudy. We just finalized on our adoption with Sarah last August, but it was through the state and so we have to do an international homestudy. I feel like, "Didn't we just do this?" It is worth it, I do wish there was a way some of it could translate over.

Getting Started

2009-03-05T07:10:00.001-06:00

XXXX is a beautiful 11 year old girl from Russia. We have been told that she has learning disabilities and there is a good chance she has Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. She came to the United States to be hosted. We first heard about her from an email that was sent to a friend that she then forwarded to us. She was one of the four children that did not have a home. When I saw her picture, I knew there was something there.

I had to get more information. I talked with the contact person and the more I found out, the more I knew she was to be our daughter. I spoke with my husband and he was not convinced yet. We went to a meeting about Russian adoption, which actually scared me to death. I was overwhelmed and was having second thoughts. My husband however, after much prayer, knew it was meant to be. God worked on my heart a little more and I knew as well. I know this will be so much work to find the money to get her here, but I have faith that God will provide all we need and I will work to the best of my ability to make it happen.

So, we started a web page:
http://www.ssvmidwifery.com/lima/index.html

And now I am starting this blog. This is my first blog. I hope to chronicle our process to bringing her home.