September 27, 2011

I don't have anything that exciting to tell you today, on the other hand, there could be some good things going on today.  There is a meeting happening today that will involve the American Embassy in Ethiopia and Adoption representatives from many agencies that will discuss current procedures in Ethiopia and other African countries.  They meet quarterly.  I am hoping that they will be able to reveal some of the reasons for the lack of referrals, slow down in granting visas, etc. that have been going on over the last few months.  I am praying that this meeting will bring good news.  Please say a little prayer today for all of the children and families who will be affected by this meeting.

Thank you,
DMM

September 20, 2011

Saturday was one of the lowest days I have had since our journey began.  I was really letting too many "what if's" cloud my thinking and really ended up in a funk.  MTM admitted that he was feeling the same way.  The wait feels so unnecessary sometimes for our sake and our daughter's.  We feel so ready that we ache for her.  I can only imagine her aching for a family to love and care for her.  It is easy to get lost in those thoughts.  That is when I try to remind myself that it is impossible for us to see the big picture and there must be good reason for this time until she comes home.  I also remind myself that I believe with my whole heart that we are meant to adopt a child into our home so we must accept that waiting is part of the process.

It became easier to put these reminders into action when I heard myself telling my son the very same thing about getting used to his new school.  I told him that first he needed to accept that this is what he is required to do everyday.  It is part of growing up to deal with change.  Take it one day at a time.

I could apply all of that to myself in dealing with my funk.  It's funny how these life lessons can come in all sorts of packages.  

So, I am done with my funk and I am moving ahead with preparations for our daughter.  I hope it isn't too long or she is going to end up with one gaudy, overly pink and polka dotted bedroom.  

Until next time,

DMM  

September 15, 2011

Our journey to adoption began after our family participated in a food pack with Kids Against Hunger.  We each were teary-eyed and inspired by the leader of our local branch, Larry Bergeron.  He has a great passion for the work he does and he spreads it amongst those who visit the factory.  This is on my mind today because the factory is preparing for a Grand Opening at their new location on Kemper Road in Sharonville on Saturday September 24, 2011.  There will be 3 food packing sessions that day with hundreds of volunteers throughout the day.  The food being packed that day will be headed for Somalia (The Horn of Africa) to help those affected by the drought.
Come see what it is all about!  No doubt you will be positively affected by the event!  Hit the button to the side to link to their website.

Have a great Day!
DMM

September 7, 2011

Today marks 2 months on the waiting list.  Although we didn't think we would have to wait this long, we have found purpose in the wait.  Making sure the kids are settled into the new school year has been my priority.  It usually takes a few weeks to get everyone in a routine.  Our priority as a family has been to find a church that helps each of us find our connection.  We had quite a list of things that the we each were looking for and I think we have finally found it.  Another purpose I have seen building in MTM and the boys is the excitement for our daughter's arrival.  I feel like they will be bursting at the seams soon, like I have been feeling for the past year and half.  The questions about her come so frequently, and AMM said he had a really great dream about her coming home the other night.  I hope she feels this same excitement that we do.  I hope somewhere in her heart she knows we are coming for her.
MVM has had a little anxiety about us leaving for Ethiopia.  He hasn't had that many occasions that we have been away for more than one night.  I reassured him that grammy would do everything just like mom and we will be able to Skype while we are there.  Not the same, but much better that telephone calls.    
We feel soooo ready for her to come home!

Keep her in your prayers!
DMM