God's Next Chapter

Finally an update...

2010-03-05T23:37:00.004-05:00

I can't believe almost a year has past and wow how fast time has gone. The kids are getting so big and life is busier than ever. Genei has transitioned from a baby to a precious little girl with a big personality. She is 100% girl and full of girl drama. Seriously I didn't know it was possible for such a small child to whine so much. The contrast between Genei and her brothers is like night and day. I am so blessed to be able to experience the joys and differences of parenting a daughter.

Genei started preschool this year and has adjusted well. The boys went to this same school and most of the teachers supported us during our adoption process so they were excited for her to join them this year.

Braeden continues to have a big happy personality. He is enjoys school and is friends with everyone.

Garrett is thriving in second grade and has been placed in an advanced math class.

Ethan is getting bigger and older. My little boy is gone and in his place is a moody tweener that likes to argue. We joking refer to his mood swings as his symbiotic alien from the planet Pubertron. The next...oh 8-10 years should be interesting.

Todd and I are doing well. He still works for Stanley and is happy to be blessed with employment. My job changed some in November as I was reassigned to the Bariatric unit abd ICU. The transition was difficult at first but returning to critical care feels like coming home. I love staff development and the autonomy that comes with educating in creative ways.

Probably the most exciting and unexpected thing I have to report is that I have joined a roller derby team and I love it. I was looking for a fun way to be more active and co-worker introduced me to a local team. I'll post more about derby later but you can check out my team @ www.ccsrollerderby.com P.S. My derby name is Spleana Rupture :)

Sorry it's been so long and hopefully I can update more often.
God Bless
Alisha

Almost a year!

2009-04-24T23:49:00.001-04:00

The Face of an Angel.

2009-04-17T23:46:00.004-04:00

It has been one year since we first set eyes on the face of our daughter and I thought I loved her then. I always knew that I would love her, but it still surprises me how much my heart has grown and how it continually overflows with love. Genei is amazing, so full of life and love. She truly is a little piece of heaven here on earth. Thank you God for entrusting us with this amazing gift.

Happy Easter!! Praise God..Jesus is Risen!

2009-04-17T23:38:00.004-04:00

Thank God for his merciful forgiveness and blessed promises. I know our house is full with His grace and love.

March Update

2009-04-17T23:04:00.006-04:00

Garrett participated in Destination Imagination Rising Stars this year. DI is an academic club that engages kids in creative thinking and problem solving. They are encouraged to use their imaginations and think outside the box. Garrett's group created a play about inventing something to help others. This group of 6 first graders created a play and song with only the guidance from a team leader. Way to go Garrett!!

Happy Birthday Braeden! My baby boy turned 6 on March 10th. Everyone is growing up so fast. Braeden has grown so much this year. He can read and his writing is progressing so well. I am happy to report that even though he is growing up, he still loves to cuddle with me and isn't embarrassed to give me kisses in public (yet).

Is that my little girl in big girl panties? Well yes it is. Does this mean she is potty trained? Uh No. We were just practicing and well she just has a cute tushy.

A day of great weather in March means time to get outside. A
few pictures of cabin fever release.

What does a half day off school plus four bored kids get you? A trip to the children's museum and pit stop for vomit :( You know how sometimes when your kids are being dramatic and uncooperative you are hesitant to believe every complaint that they offer up. Like "Mom I don't feel good....my stomach feels weird" I won the BAD MOTHER OF THE DAY AWARD. I thought my oldest child was just trying to get out of going to the museum....until he actually vomited when we got there. Fortunately, no vehicles were assaulted in the process. So how did I end up getting pictures if he got sick? After he said he felt better...and well we had already driven all the way downtown.

February Update

2009-04-17T22:35:00.002-04:00

February was busy as usual, but we also made time for some fun. My birthday was on the 17th and I chose to celebrate by having a girls night in. Genei and I shooed the boys out and several of my "girls" came over where we ate good food, danced, sang karaoke and played games. We had a great time and I'm thinking it should be a new birthday tradition.

Our oldest child, Ethan, turned 10 on the 28th. First of all I can't believe he is already ten. It is amazing to me that my 7lb 4oz baby is now 95lbs and over 5 feet tall. How did that happen? To celebrate both of our birthdays, DH and I took the boys skiing at Bittersweet Ski Resort. Todd and I have always enjoyed hitting the slopes and it was really fun to be able to share it with the whole family (well almost, Genei wasn't quite big enough this year).

Ethan also performed in the 4th grade music presentation. He did a great job with the western style jig and I know he was proud of how hard he worked.

Happy Birthday Genei!

2009-01-04T00:02:00.002-05:00

My baby girl has turned 2. I can't believe how big she is getting and how much she has changed in just 6 short months. She is doing so well and had a great time being the center of attention for her big day. Oh wait, that is nothing new in this house, she's always the center of attention. Well, we're just trying to make up for lost time. Enjoy the pictures, we sure had fun making them.
God Bless!

Snow Princess!

2009-01-03T23:32:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!

2009-01-03T23:23:00.002-05:00

Bedtime Snapshots!

2008-12-11T00:05:00.000-05:00

Trick-or-Treat Cuteness!!!

2008-11-04T17:15:00.002-05:00

Reuniting with Travel Buddies

2008-09-27T21:31:00.002-04:00

We were so blessed today to spend time with one of the families that traveled to China with us. We really enjoyed our (too short) visit and were so excited to see how much their Jenna has grown and changed in just a few short months. Our hope is that we will be a to visit them the next time and keep this new friendship going. Thank you so much for visiting and we can't wait to see you again soon!

Beautiful girl....gone wrong

2008-09-27T21:07:00.003-04:00

They have her!

2008-09-22T07:52:00.003-04:00

Praise God! My friend Pam and her family have their daughter, Anna. And she is a miracle! Your can read their story here. Congratulations!!!

Random pictures from a lazy poster....

2008-09-06T23:52:00.005-04:00

I just love this photo. She looks like a dancer, full of grace and floating on air.

Yummy food. Can I have it all at once?

Genei's first owee! And of course, being a caring and compassionate mother; I grabbed the camera before I cleaned her up.

Genei's friend Avery. His father is Chinese and they have quietly hinted at Genei being his betrothed. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

All my handsome men on the first day of school.

My little man heads off to Kindergarten. I just can't believe how big he is...and so proud!

Genei started walking about two weeks ago...all over and without help. She is amazing and doing so well.

My water baby!!

A visit to Grandma's and a ride in the wagon. I just love this picture.

A family picture at Genei's Baby Dedication service at our church. During this celebration the parents, family, friends, and congregation commit to raising the child in a Christian home and teaching them to follow God. It was amazing to finally be here after such a long journey. Some of Todd's family was able to help us celebrate and we were so glad they were there. Unfortunately we didn't get a picture with Daddy as he was the one that played camera man.

Isn't she precious! We are so blessed and in love.

Blessed by the faith of a family in the midst of tragedy

2008-08-07T08:13:00.002-04:00

In this world we often question the meaning of things, especially seemingly senseless accidents that claim the lives of those we love. God understands our questions, our anger, our cries of frustration. It is in these moments that He shares our feelings and reaches out to comfort us. The Chapman family has faced unspeakable tragedy in the loss of their daughter Maria. Their faith is a testimony to the healing power of God's grace.

China- Day Two

2008-08-05T22:07:00.003-04:00

Our second day in China was busy to say the least. On the agenda was a ton of sightseeing that was guaranteed to keep our minds and bodies busy and away from anxious thoughts of meeting our children the next day. After a marvelous breakfast our entire group of 21 families boarded a huge bus and headed out. Our touring destinations included Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City, lunch with shopping, and finally The Great Wall of China. I told you it was a busy day.

Todd and I really enjoyed experiencing the historical monuments of China, but I must admit there wasn't near enough time allotted to fully explore the rich history of what we were seeing. With such a large group and so many places to go, time was tight. For example, we had 45 minutes to see the entire Forbidden City. We (OK more me) were also distracted by socializing with the families in our group. It was so neat to talk about our children and our adoption journey that our sightseeing seemed to be background music.
Todd and I are already thinking about our next trip to China. Next time it will be for the whole family and more about truly seeing China.

The Forbidden City

Tiananmen Square

The Great Wall of China

A couple pictures of our yummy lunch!

Visiting the Zoo!

2008-08-01T15:36:00.001-04:00

Connor Prairie

2008-07-29T22:38:00.002-04:00

Just some pictures of our visit to Connor Prairie. It is a really neat historical museum that allows the kids to participate in hands-on activities that involve Indiana's history. Imagine visiting Walnut Groove....

Thank you Pam!

2008-07-29T21:47:00.003-04:00

Three days after we got home, we received an amazing welcome home gift from my friend Pam. I met Pam through this adoption process and have been abundantly blessed to share this journey with her (she has three boys too!). While she is still patiently waiting for her daughter in China, God has blessed her family with a daughter from Taiwan, named Anna. Please keep them in your prayers as they are only waiting for the final court hearing and then they will be able to bring little Anna home. Here are a couple pictures of the presents Pam sent.

Thank you so much Pam!!

Two weeks home...

2008-07-29T21:22:00.005-04:00

Genei has been ours for one month and we have been home for two weeks. She is doing so well. It is hard to describe how blessed I feel. At this point I can't imagine a smoother transition and I know how blessed I am to be able to say this. Some things I have learned about my daughter:

* She has the sweetest smile- and when she is really laughing she closes her right eye and looks a tad bit like Popeye.

* Genei is a Mommy's girl from sun-up to sun-down. She prefers me over anyone else...including Daddy. She tolerates her brothers and has her moments with Dad (usually when I step out of the room). We have been working on her with this by letting Daddy give her baths and put her to bed at night.

* She has gained 4lbs since we first met her.

* She has nine teeth with two more that just pop through.

* Genei may be tiny, but she know what she wants....and she lets us know too! Did I mention she has a stubborn streak.

* She loves music and bops her head and claps whenever it comes on.

* She can sign "Thank you" and "more"

* She almost always falls asleep in the car, no matter the distance. DH says "just like mommy"

* She is my daughter and I love her. I didn't give birth to her, but my heart doesn't know that. I am in love with this child. Sometimes it still doesn't feel real. I sit in her room and rock her to sleep thinking about all the times I would imagine this day and it doesn't seem possible that she is finally here. Please..if your still waiting, hang in there, keep waiting, it is worth it!

China Funny!!

2008-07-17T23:17:00.003-04:00

During our stay in Shandong we spent one night in a rather iffy hotel so we could see the Confucius Temple and Mount Taishan, they were about 3 hour from Jinan City. This particular hotel was probably nice about 20-30 years ago. It was basically clean and I never saw a bug other than a mosquito. As we were getting ready for bed, the phone rang. Here is how the conversation went as I listened to Todd:

Todd: Hello
What.... In English.
One more time.
Uh NO!

So being the ever nosey wife I asked what the call was a about.

He said (and I quote) It was a lady and she said "Beautiful Asian girl have sex with you for 500 Yuan"

Thank goodness he said NO!!!!

The next day we asked our guide about it. She got the same call only they hung up when they heard a woman's voice.

Confucious Temple

2008-07-17T23:09:00.002-04:00

Confucius lived in Shandong province about 3 hour from Jinan City where Genei was found. While he was not highly regarded during his lifetime, his ideas were ahead of his time and promoted a deeper respect for individual worth and moral values. He never claimed to be anything more than a man, yet many people worshipped him as more. One very interesting thing about Confucius and our adoption is that because of him the abandonment rate in Shandong is very low. His teachings were that your children should be valued and that they should be raised by the family. The number of children adopted from Shandong is very low, in fact we were the first family from our agency to adopt from this province.

Mount Taishan Videos

2008-07-17T22:17:00.003-04:00

Mount Taishan

2008-07-17T21:58:00.002-04:00

One of our favorite days in China was spent visiting Mount Taishan in Genei's province, Shandong. Our guide, Susan, explained that it is one of 5 famous mountains in China. Susan hadn't ever been to the mountain so it was fun for her to.

Our journey started at they base of the mountain where we crowded into a bus with about 50 other sweating people and we proceeded to make our way up. The bus was nice, but no AC and every seat was full. The scenery was great. Some locals live on the mtn, so we saw their houses and even some swimmers taking advantage of the mtn lakes.

Once our bus ride came to an end, we walk for about 1/2 mile to the cable car station where we loaded up again for the ride to the top. Now mind you I a slightly afraid of heights...but I didn't want to miss anything. I prayed and convinced myself that there was very little chance that we would die. Then Susan told us that our admission ticket included "life insurance" in the case of accidental death. Very comforting!!

I am sure the mountain is absolutely magnificent on a clear sky day, but for us it was covered in a dense fog that made it a photo challenge. The best part of the place was that it was at least 20 degrees cooler at the top and we were able to enjoy the view without wiping the dripping sweat from our eyes.

We tried some local food, one was a crepe type bread with green onions inside. It was ok. The other was another type of bread, almost like a hot pocket, that had some kind of Chinese lettuce inside. It was salty and really good.

We walked around for about 3 hours, climbing stairs, taking pictures with the locals, and enjoying God blessing of beautiful sights and cool air. It was a great day!

Genei's cute bathing suit

2008-07-15T07:37:00.000-04:00

And the award for "Bad Blogger" goes to.....

2008-07-14T23:47:00.004-04:00

OK, I know, I know. I have done a horrible job of blogging our trip to China, but believe me I did have good intentions....just not enough energy. We had an amazing time and Genei is doing so well. God has answered our prayers and blessed us with a very smooth and happy transition.

After a very long day, we made home on Friday evening at 5:30pm. The boys and some of Todd's family met us at the airport. I missed the boys so much..they even looked different to me. Is that weird? We were only gone for two weeks, right! Anyway after we said our hello's and collected our luggage it was off to Walmart for groceries. Sound fun right? Note to others: Have someone grocery shop for you the day you get back and then go straight home.

Apparently, I am not only a bad blogger but also I poor excuse for a mother as I didn't take any pictures for the first 2 days that we were home. I promise to do better! Since I know you really just want pictures, here are a few from Genei's first trip to a sprinkler park. She is braver than I anticipated, someday I know she will be a fearless force for God.

Links to more pictures

2008-07-05T11:02:00.004-04:00

I know this isn't fancy "bloggin" but if you click on the pictures it will take you to our albums and you can see a whole lot more. Later, when I have some time I will try and blog more about our experiences.

First day with Genni

China Notary

Jinan SWI

China Village - New Hope

More pictures of Genei...and she is smiling!

2008-07-01T18:05:00.004-04:00

I'm sorry I haven't been posting more. It is so hot and humid here that with busy days spent walking around by about 8pm I am exhausted.

Genei has been doing very well. She is very attached to her mommy and wants me most of the time. But she also loves her daddy, especially when he feeds her or bounces her up and down (see pictures above). She is beginning to be more relaxed and active. She has 7 teeth, including a couple molars on the bottom. As far as sizing goes, 6 month clothing fits her perfectly, but aren't expecting that to last very long....This girl can eat. She is taking 4-5 bottles per day and eating table food with meals. Our guide laughs and says she is always eating.

The last picture is at the Civil Affairs office in Jinan. On June 30th her adoption was final and she was legally ours. The lady in the picture with us (I can't remember her name) is one of the orphanage directors. Both she and our guide have been surprised at how quickly Genei seems to have attached to us. Praise God for prayers answered.

Forever Day!

2008-06-29T09:35:00.004-04:00

First sight of our little ladybug

This has been an amazing day, I can't even begin to describe how blessed we feel. God is amazing and we have been reminded of that each and every day. We started our day by taking a three hour train ride from Beijing to Jinan. Jinan is a lot different than the parts of Beijing that we experienced. It is far more crowded and the people here are not used to seeing foreigners, so we are a big attraction. It is a little strange to be the center of attention all the time. However we have felt very safe and everyone has been very nice.

Our initial meeting with Genei was far different than we imagined. Since we are the only family here, Genei's nanny brought her directly to our room and handed her right to me. There was no crowd or other crying babies. She didn't cry but was wary and serious about the experience. We were able to ask a few questions and then the nanny left. It is still hard to believe that she is finally ours.

The rest of the day went by pretty quickly as we got to know our girl better. She took a bottle right away and loves to eat. She has formed quite an attahment to me and cries if I leave her sight. She also likes her daddy, but she isn't quite as comfortable with him yet.

Photos Day one

2008-06-27T11:19:00.002-04:00

Our view on our drive into the village. The driving was a little scary but not to bad. There a so many car and pedestrians on small, narrow, road ways it is anxiety provoking. Pictures of the Lunar market. Apparently this is an open market that happens about every 3 Days based on the cycles of the moon. You can get everything here, even fresh killed meet for your dinner. Todd and I were quite the attention getters and everyone was super friendly.

Fresh cooking spices. We tried this one that makes you tongue go numb. Interesting, but not very tasty.
This is a local dentist. Nice office huh?

New Day Learning Center

2008-06-27T11:00:00.004-04:00

What an amazing blessing today has been. At 9am we were greeted in the lobby of our hotel by a driver that took us about one hour outside of Beijing to a large village. We arranged to go there to see our friend and previous adoption advocate, Carrie and her husband Jacob. They have lived in China now for almost a year and they are volunteers at the New Day Learning Center and Foster Home. This building complex started out a Christian ran factory that strove to put people above profit by treating workers fairly with good pay and good hours. As the business grew the owner wanted to give back to the community so they started a foster home for adoption eligible special need children. They also have classes teaching oral English for older students. New Day is funded by volunteers and helps Chinese orphans get needed surgeries so that can be placed with forever families.

Today, Carrie and Jacob, played host for us in their village, not only sharing about their ministry but also providing us with the opportunity to experience life in a village, the lunar market, and a great barbecue dinner. We are both so thankful for Carrie and Jacob''s gracious welcome and we truly enjoyed spending the day with them.

More pictures of our day in the next post.....

Our Hotel

2008-06-27T10:51:00.003-04:00

Our hotel is absolutely amazing. We had no idea how nice it was going to be. The Grand Millennium Beijing is a brand new hotel owned by people from Singapore. It is really to fancy for this Midwestern girl, but I am totally loving it. We even have a king size bed.

Breakfast is also great! Ther were three entire tables full of food and the service is excellant. This is the trip of a lifetime and I know it is only going to get better. 2 more days until we see our girl!!

China Bound!

2008-06-27T10:34:00.004-04:00

We have made it! The travel was long and when we finally made it to Beijing we were exhausted, however, for 22.5 hours of travel I can't complain. Enjoy a few picture of our travel.

Lunch at Chili's in Minnianppolis

This is the plane we took to Beijing from Tokoyo. Very Nice! We each had our own TV with on demand movies and a remote control.
Some artwork in the Tokoyo airport.

A very modern airport lounge in Tokoyo. Fortunately the airport wasn't crowded and our layovers were extremely easy.

Sorry these are out of order, but here's our luggage.

The Official Itinerary

2008-06-19T22:20:00.002-04:00

June 25- 11:43am Leave Indianapolis for Beijing

June 26- 9:35pm Arrive in Beijing

June 27- We are hoping to visit a friend just outside of Beijing
or
Visit Summer Palace and have a Hutong Tour

June 28- Visit Tian An Men Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall

June29- 8:10am Take train to Jinan (where Genei is) and meet child in afternoon
This is our Forever Day!!!!!!

June 30- Bus to civil affairs office to do registration and notary

July 1- Visit Confucius Temple

July 2- Visit Tai Mountain

July 3- Visit Daming Lake

July 4- 655pm Fly to Guangzhou

July 5- Meet in guide's room to fill out forms for the consulate

July 6- Walk to church for Sunday Sermon

July 7- Take visa photo, child's medical exam, and group red couch photo

July 8- Visit Family Chen's Academic Center and pearl wholesale market

July 9- Send Visa documents with guide

July 10- Bus to US Consulate to take oath

July 11- 820am Leave Guangzhou for America
835pm Arrive in Indianapolis.

What a busy schedule. I can't wait. Please continue to pray for us throughout our trip

Travel itinerary and new dates....again

2008-06-12T23:17:00.002-04:00

It's official...we have a Consulate Appointment (CA) and our plane tickets have been purchased. And, big surprise, our dates have changed yet again. We were originally told we would travel from 7/10-7/23. On Monday we received out TA earlier than expected so our travel dates were moved up and we were told we would travel from 6/26-7/9. However, as I have come to accept and embrace, nothing in the adoption world is within my control and I had better just learn to go with the flow. Today our agency called and said our CA was scheduled for the later of the days requested, so we would not be able to return home until July 11. Then to top if off, all the flights were booked for June 26th, so we are leaving a day earlier on June 25th. I have decided that I am going to let go of the little stresses that are attempting to rob me of the amazing joy this miracle is bringing into my life. Whatever travel problems, delays or changes, very soon I will hold my daughter. Nothing else matters.

We have Travel Approval and.......

2008-06-09T18:53:00.002-04:00

We got word from our agency today that we received our travel approval from the CCAA today. That was fantastic news, and yet, the news that has left us speechless, is that they have moved up our travel dates. We will be leaving for China on June 26. That is in 17 days. My head is still spinning and I am in a complete tizzy trying to get all of our previously, neatly, arranged plans, changed. Mind you, I am not complaining, just a little stressed out with the amount of things I need to do to finish getting ready. I know it will all work out. God is amazing and his timing is perfect. I can't believe in less than three weeks I will be holding my daughter in my arms. Praise God!!!! Keep those prayers coming, we sure need them.

New Picture!!

2008-06-02T12:13:00.003-04:00

Last week our agency sent us a growth update and said the picture would be coming soon. Well, we were blessed today to receive this wonderful picture of our little peanut. I've decided peanut is a good nickname since she is so small. Any ideas for a cute nickname that is a little more feminine?

Her measurements are:
Height:67cm (26.4")
Weight:6kg (13.2 lbs)
Head circumference:43cm (17")
chest circumference:42cm (16.5")
feet length:10cm (4")

I am so absolutely in love and I can't wait to hold her in my arms. Please continue to pray for her health and safety as we impatiently wait to travel.

Pampered Chef Fundraiser

2008-05-21T23:25:00.004-04:00

We are having a fundraiser thru Pampered Chef and my great friend Jennifer. She is donating part of her own commission so we will receive an amazing 25% profit towards our final adoption expenses. While no amount of money will keep us from our daughter and we have faith that God will provide for all our needs... adoption is expensive and we could really use everyone's support. If you have any friends or family or even acquaintances please send them to our blog. Pampered Chef has a great reputation for quality cookware that is beautiful and fun to use AND you will be helping us to bring our daughter home.

Please connect to this link and make sure to put my name in as host before you order:

Alisha Harter

www.PamperedChef.Biz/JenniferCourtney

Thank you and God Bless!

There is also a posted link in the sidebar!

Where is Genei?

2008-05-19T20:54:00.007-04:00

I thought I'd give a little information about where Genei has been living and where we will are going to be staying for a least a week of our China visit.

Genei lives at the Ji'Nan City Social Welfare Institute (orphanage) in Shandong province, about 400 miles south of Beijing. Ji'Nan is a city of rich history and about 6 million people. Jinan is known as the "Spring City" because of the large number of springs in the city. It is also the only city in China where they say the water is safe to drink. Even so , I don't think we will be taking any chances.

Lake of Five Dragons

Downtown Jinan City at night

Daming Lake

Jinan Social Welfare Institute, Genei's home for most of her life

One of the infant/toddler rooms (Genei is not in the picture)

Celebrating

2008-05-19T20:37:00.002-04:00

We took the kids out for dinner tonight to celebrate and while I know it wasn't actually Chinese, it was Japanese and that is at least the same part of the world. The boys had never eaten at a Hibachi grill and they thought it was the coolest thing ever. Our chef was a young guy and he was great with kids impressing them with his fire making skills. This has been an amazing day and I am just in awe of God's blessings.

On our way to China!!!!!!

2008-05-19T17:33:00.003-04:00

We got it!!! We got our Letter of Acceptance from China today!!! I was at work when our agency called to let us know it is all official. And guess what.....we will be traveling to China in JULY!!!! I am still in shock. They say we should leave on July 10 and return home around the 24th. I have so much to do and so much to pack I will be a total nutcase for the next 7 weeks. Please pray for my sanity.

The boys are really excited, although Braeden was a little upset that I woke him from a lovely nap to make him take this picture. I kept saying "smile" and he would grumpily say "I am". So I just figured 2 out 3 smile would have to do.

We are off to celebrate!! God is good!!!

Care Package on its way!

2008-05-19T17:15:00.003-04:00

We sent Genei's care package out last week and I hope it gets there soon. I probably went a little overboard and I certainly stuffed that box full. We went to Build-a-Bear and made a bear with our recorded voices so she can get to know our sounds. I am praying that our transition is smooth and that God prepares her heart to accept our love.

We've got PA!!!!!!!

2008-05-05T22:16:00.003-04:00

We were notified today by our agency that China has officially given us Pre-Approval (PA) to adopt our precious baby girl. We are so HAPPY to be one step closer to bringing Genei home. And we can now send a care package to Genei's SWI and soon will be able to request updated photos and physical exam.

So...what happens next you ask. Well now we wait for LOA, TA, and then finally CA before we can travel. Now I'll tell you that really means.

The LOA (Letter of Acceptance), is really the final approval of our adoption. This usually come about a month after PA and you travel about 6-8weeks after you receive it. I am expecting/hoping our will be here by the end of this month or the beginning of June.

The TA (Travel Approval) is when China gives us dates of travel and our tickets can be purchased.

Finally, CA (Consulate Appointment) is the day we are to be at the Chinese Consulate to be sworn in as Genei's adoptive parents. This date is requested after your travel plans are set and is towards the end of our trip in China.

We are still hoping to travel sometime in August or September, but are unsure if the Summer Olympics, being held in Beijing, will interfere with our plans. I will continue to update this site anytime I learn of further progress....so if you really want to keep up with the Harter Happenings check back frequently.

Happy Mother's Day....Early

2008-05-05T21:57:00.002-04:00

My youngest son, Braeden came home last week very excited to invite me to his special Mother's Day celebration at his preschool....unfortunately I had the hard job of telling him that I wouldn't be able to come since it was on the day I started my new job. After we both finished crying, we came up with a compromise. My sister went with him as my stand in and took pictures. They had a great time and he brought my presents home so I was spoiled and happy. He is such a sweetheart and truly has me wrapped around his little finger. Just read the card above and you'll see why.

My new favorite room!! Just add Genei....

2008-04-25T01:48:00.003-04:00

Seriously, I love this room and I can't wait for Genei to come home. It is so girly and feminine, something our house of testosterone really needs. My husband thinks I'm an emotional nutcase because I'm so excited about having her room finished (well almost). Boys just don't get it, but I know little Miss Genei will have them all wrapped around her fingers very soon.....Please hurry LOA.

We have been blessed!!

2008-04-17T14:08:00.002-04:00

The day is finally here! We have a daughter!

Introducing Geneiveve Faith Ruran Harter

She is 15 months old and from North China

At 12 months she weighed 15.4lbs and was 25ins long.

She is shy, but sometime impatient and enjoys being held.

We hope to travel and bring her home in about four months. After all this waiting I'm sure the next several months will come and go quickly. Although in some ways it will be more difficult because now we have a face match to our prayers and each day that we wait she get one day older.

God has blessed us abundantly and it is to Him that we give all the glory. We fully believe that He placed the desire in our hearts for this adoption and that He promised us to bring us to our daughter. He is faithful and amazing!! Thank you God for your promise fulfilled.

Please join us in praying that Genei will be well cared for and loved while she waits for us and that everything else (travel, finances, paperwork, care for the boys while we're gone) will be worked out smoothly.

In Christ's Love

The Harter Family

Adoption Gestation....Huh?

2008-03-29T20:26:00.003-04:00

This is exactly how I feel. Today marks 2 years since we started this journey and although I know God's timing is perfect and that He has been preparing us in many ways during the long wait.....A 24+ month paper pregnancy is too long. I want to see my baby!!!!!

Random Pictures

2008-03-26T18:44:00.002-04:00

This was my birthday dinner out with the girls. We had a blast and spent 4 hours eating. What more could I ask for.

Just a random shot of the boys

Here is Braden with his class mascot Jeffrey.
All the guys putting together Ethan's new scooter. Braeden better be careful or he will find a career as a plumber.

Birthdays

2008-03-10T08:22:00.003-04:00

Here are a few pics of the boys birthdays. They are growing up so fast. It is hard to believe that my baby is 5 today.

A new day and the sun still shines....

2008-01-10T09:44:00.000-05:00

Today is a new day and although I am still hurting and questioning "why", God is still God and He is good. I don't know where this road is taking us or how long we will be on it but I know God is with us and that He has planned this journey. Contrary to what I want to believe, it is also not all about me and what I want. This is His plan and we play a small part in it. I know I will fail at remembering that in my daily walk, but I won't walk it alone. The song "Mountain of God" by Third Day opened my eyes and gave me comfort this morning as I awoke to face the day. I stood in my kitchen crying, praising, and thanking God that He is here with me. Always.

Also, I want to thank everyone for their words of comfort and uplifting support. Yesterday was bad, but I can't imagine what it would have been like without all of you that were there for me.

Read the lyrics and listen to this song. If it doesn't apply to your life right now I bet you can think of a time when it did.

"Mountain of God"

Third Day

Thought that I was all alone

Broken and afraid

But You were there with me

Yes, You were there with me

And I didn't even know

That I had lost my way

But You were there with me

Yes, You were there with me

'Til You opened up my eyes

I never knew

That I couldn't ever make it

Without You

Even though the journey's long

And I know the road is hard

Well, the One who's gone before me

He will help me carry on

After all that I've been through

Now I realize the truth

That I must go through the valley

To stand upon the mountain of God

As I travel on the road

That You have lead me down

You are here with me

Yes, You are here with me

I have need for nothing more

Oh, now that I have found

That You are here with me

Yes, You are here with me

I confess from time to time

I lose my way

But You are always there

To bring me back again

Sometimes I think of where it is I've come from

And the things I've left behind

But of all I've had, what I possessed

Nothing can quite compare

With what's in front of me

Decision Made-Answer NO

2008-01-09T16:09:00.000-05:00

The AHH SN committee met this week and we, unfortunately, have not been matched. This adoption process continues to be an emotional roller coaster ride that I want to end. I still want to adopt, I just want off the ride. It is very hard to stay emotionally stable when there seems to be no concrete information out there regarding this process. Everything is variable and dependent on something else.

So for now... I will cling to the promise God gave me, wait for His perfect timing and praise Him in this storm.

Paperwork sent!

2008-01-03T05:13:00.000-05:00

We have submitted our paperwork for the SN adoption list at AHH. Now we wait for the committee's decision to be made. This waiting is even harder that the regular waiting we have already been doing. My stomach is full of butterflies and as you can tell by the time of my post (5:22am) I can't sleep. I don't know for certain, but we should have an answer by Jan. 11th (maybe sooner if there are less applications due to their limitations this time).

Please pray for our family and our ability to wait on God during this time!

Happy New Year!!!

2008-01-03T05:07:00.000-05:00

Here's to a great year of new beginnings and happy endings. May we all reach out and share the love we have and make this world brighter in 2008!!!!!!

Referrals!!

2008-01-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

The CCAA has finished the review of the adoption application documents registered with our office before October 31, 2006.

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before December 19, 2005

Congratulations to all the familes who have seen the pictures of the little one or who are about to. Only 5 days of referrals this month!! But each of us is at least 5 days closer now (I'm trying to look on the bright side).

Nursery Progress!

2008-01-01T17:11:00.001-05:00

We finally painted Genei's room and not only does it look amazing (I'm biased), but it just feels great to be preparing for her arrival. Here are a few pictures of the before and after.

Before

After

New SN List- Prayers Needed!

2007-12-22T20:42:00.000-05:00

Our agency just received and new SN list of 20 children from the CCAA. While we were surprised by the early timing of this we are very excited about the prospect of possibly getting matched and bringing Genei home. I had hoped the agency would be able to roll out their new SN process before the next list but with the early timing that just wasn't possible....however they are doing things a little bit different this time around. Click here to see the list of children for yourself, but I warn you they are beautiful and if you look in their eyes you too may feel Gods call to adopt.

The first round of application will only be accepted from A Helping Hand clients that already have a Special Needs Assessment on file and that have applied in the past. That means we are eligible to apply!!! We will be submitting our paperwork by January 4, 2008 and hopefully have some news one way or the other by January 11. Since the initial application process is not open to everyone I feel like the odds are more in our favor this time but ultimately the decision lies in God's hands and we will put our trust and faith in Him.

Prayer Request:

1. Please pray that each of the 20 children on this list will find loving homes and be quickly united with their forever families. They are all so beautiful and deserving of a mother and father that will surround them with love.

2. Please join us in praying that our daughter is among the children on this list and that we will be able to bring her home soon.

3. For Genei's safety and care until we are united as a family.

4. For Genei's birth mother: I can only imagine the pain that must burden her heart and I will not judge her for making the only decision I am sure she felt she was able to make in a culture that places unbearable restrictions on parents. I pray that she will find peace in knowing that her sacrifice has helped fill a hole in my heart and provided her child with a whole bunch of people that will love her forever.

5. For our ability to trust in God and His hand in this adoption process, it has been a long and difficult emotional journey and at times my heart feels broken and bruised, but I know that in the end my heart will overflow with the love of a child He promised us so long ago.

God Bless!

Yes, That's my kid!!!

2007-12-22T20:22:00.000-05:00

Braeden really showed his ability to entertain at this years preschool Christmas program. No one had any idea that he was going to be such a stinker that night. Anyway enjoy the show and have a Merry Christmas laugh on us!

Out of Review!!!!

2007-12-18T23:06:00.000-05:00

The CCAA has finished the review of the adoption application documents registered with our office before October 31, 2006.

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before December 14, 2005.

We are finally out of the Review Room and on our way to the Matching Room.....Yea!!!!! Now this doesn't really mean anything as far as a decrease in time for our refferal...it will still be a long wait, but it does mean that we have passed the first hurdle from China and it looks like we are approved without question to be referred a child sometime in the future. Now if the Matching Room would just speed up....please, please, please!!!1

Christmas Meme!

2007-12-07T14:58:00.001-05:00

From my ladybug friend Janet:

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper- more fun, less money

2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial, something about killing a tree for one month at Christmas time seems wrong.....

3. When do you put up your tree? After Thanksgiving...before Christmas, it varies

4. When do you take the tree down? The first week of January

5. Do you like eggnog? Yummy!! I even like it in my coffee, it makes a great latte!

6. Favourite gift received as a child? Cabbage patch dolls

7. Do you have a Nativity scene? I have a small one

8. Hardest person to buy for? Teenagers, they are so picky and everything they want is expensive

9. Easiest person to buy for? My kids, I love surprising them

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Clothes from my husband that were about 3 sizes too small. He was either not paying attention or really trying to drop a hint :)

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail them out!

12. Favorite Christmas movie? The Polar Express, all the old clay-mation cartoons

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Black Friday

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Probably

15. Favorite things to eat at Christmas? Pumpkin cake with cream cheese icing

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear and dancing

17. Favorite Christmas song? I don't know about my favorite, but this year it is hard to keep from singing "I'll have a blue Christmas without you"

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home or travel short distance to make family rounds

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? I think so if I sing the song

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Day! We have a little routine where we read the Christmas story in the bible, sing Happy Birthday to Jesus and then pray before going down the stairs to enjoy opening gifts

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Too much to do and too busy to enjoy it like I really want to. My own fault though I guess

23. What is the "corniest" family tradition you do, or miss doing? No clue

24. Ugliest Christmas Decoration ever invented? Garland???

25. Which looks the best, theme trees or homey trees? Both

26. What does Christmas mean to you? First, it is about the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrating what He means to me and my family. It also means seeing the wonder and excitement from the eyes of my children. We don't buy gifts throughout the year and I do relatively small birthdays so I really enjoy making Christmas a big deal.

If your reading this please play along and leave a comment so I can read yours too!

2007-12-07T14:50:00.001-05:00

Your Christmas is Most Like: A Charlie Brown Christmas

Each year, you really get into the spirit of Christmas.
Which is much more important to you than nifty presents.

What Movie Is Your Christmas Most Like?

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly!

2007-12-05T23:32:00.001-05:00

Well, it's official, the CCAA has made referrals through 12/14/06. That was the rumor and now it is the truth. Those of us who are holding onto optimism were hoping the rumors would be shy at least a few days.... But the bad news this month is that our rosy outlook has been covered by the clouds.

What then is the good news? At least a few families (probably more than a few, but right now I'm in a mood) will be looking at the faces of their children very soon and this will be the last Christmas they spend without them. Congratulations to all of you with referrals this month. Your wait has been long and you definitely deserve an end to it.

On to the "Ugly".....It looks like at this rate it will be March before we see any referrals from 06'.....so, let's see that means it could be sometime in 2010 before we travel to China to bring our Genei home. This is an amazing lesson in patience but I know God has a plan.... We will hold on to His promises and try to enjoy every minute of our lives while His plan unfolds. Please keep praying for things to speed up in China, not just for us, but for all the precious children that are just waiting for wonderful families to come and love them.

China Center of Adoption Affairs

2007-11-30T14:17:00.000-05:00

This is the latest update from the CCAA. Our LID is October 18, 2006, so that means we are now up for review and once we are out of review our file moves onto the matching room (Yea!!!!!). Now the reality is that the hold up has been in the matching room since they are still in the process of finishing the matches for 2005. We are definitely in this for the long run, so don't forget to continuing praying for our little girl waiting in China. Also probably next week this months referrals will be out and the rumor is the CCAA is going to refer up through December 14th.

Congratulations to all those out of review and to the lucky families who will get the gift of seeing their new babies faces for Christmas!

China Center of Adoption Affairs: " The CCAA has finished the review of the adoption application documents registered with our office before September 30, 2006. The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before December 8, 2005."

Family Pictures

2007-11-08T23:00:00.001-05:00

Update: Long Overdue!

2007-11-08T22:08:00.001-05:00

The first day of school

Braeden's first day of school

Happy Birthday Garrett!

Daddy's birthday celebration, now he is 34

This is my Dad, who came to visit us over fall break. The beard was a new thing and it took a little getting used to. Love you Dad!!!

Papa braved the trampoline with the boys. He didn't realize how hard it is on the legs

The gang, plus Adi, all dressed up for Halloween. See my little ladybug! So cute!!

Well a lot has happened in the past three months and I figured I'd finally get around to updating the blog before I can no longer remember what has happened. Mostly I think I'll just post some pictures, because aren't they worth more than words anyway.

In the past 3 months the boys have all settled in to the new school year and are doing very well. Ethan really likes his third grade teacher, Mrs. Johnson, and she has truly been a blessing to us. He needs firm guidance but also needs to know that he is liked and that he can be successful. She has been excellent at helping him in all ways. He is so smart yet his energy is difficult to harness.

Garrett, my kindergartner, is doing fabulous. He loves school and wants to go full day everyday. Right now he is in the afternoon class and goes to the YMCA K+ program 2 mornings a week.

Braeden is in Pre-K and is truly a social butterfly. He loves everyone and wants everyone to be his friend. I get kinda sad when I see my baby getting so big, but I will be thankful for the day when he stops wearing diapers at night:0)

Todd and I celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary in August. I still find this hard to believe, not the marriage thing, but the fact that 16 years have past since I met him. We have certainly changed over the years and our love has grown in to something special and long-lasting with the help of our Father God.

Otherwise we have celebrated birthdays (Garrett's and Todd's), gone on field trips, volunteered at the school, had a visit from my dad in Texas, and had our first family picture taken in three years. We also had a really big milestone pass in October, our 1 year LID anniversary has now come and gone. Bring on #2!!!!!!

*****Note to Genei************
Genei my baby, no matter how long the wait we are still coming for you. You were promised to us by God and we know He is faithful. I think of you everyday and hold you in my heart. You are a big part of our family and we miss you so much. May God hold you in His arms and give you comfort, may He keep you safe everyday of your life and fulfil His promise in His perfect timing. I love you!!! Love, Mom

Enjoy the pictures!

Testing out the Hip Hammock

2007-08-08T11:54:00.001-04:00

Okay, I know this is an awful picture of me, but isn't this baby adorable! My sister was babysitting for a friend of hers and brought this beautiful girl to my house for the night. She was so friendly and happy I really just wanted to keep her and she made me miss Genei all the more. She is ten months old and about the size and age I expect Genei to be when we bring her home (give or take a little bit). So I just had to try out the hip hammock I bought at a yard sale this summer. It worked great and she was so comfortable in it, she snuggled right in. We are certainly ready for a little girl at our house, the boys were falling all over themselves to play with her and as for me, well she had pink nail polish on her toes, how could I not be in love!!! Please CCAA speed up those referrals!!!!

Summer Pictures Part 3

2007-08-08T11:34:00.000-04:00

The last summer bash means summer is over and school is about to start. Although I am a little sad about school starting, I am also ready for the boys to be able to spend some time apart. They are starting to get on each others nerves (and mine with all the bickering). So today they were each able to invite a friend over to swim and enjoy the last days of summer. It is actually pretty neat because the family of boys we had over are all within six months of each of my boys. We met this family many years ago before either one of us had kids. They have four now, three boys first and then a little girl, who is now two. I have joked with them that they threw off the age balance by having their little girl so soon, especially since our wait for Genei keeps getting longer.....and longer....and......

My kids are complete water bugs. These pictures are from a local public pool that has a couple water slides. Braeden kept freaking the life guards out because every time he came off the water slide he would "dead-man float". I always have a blast watching them play!

Livingroom Makeover

2007-08-08T11:27:00.000-04:00

And yet another unfinished project!!! We started to redo our living room in June and it is still undone, but I thought I'd post a couple picture. I still need to hang curtains, redo the tile on the fireplace, build up the mantle, and add a few decorative things. I just keep adding things on to the list :0)

Summer Pictures Part 2

2007-08-08T11:12:00.000-04:00

VBS had a cowboy theme this year and even my youngest was old enough to go. They had a wonderful time!! On the last day of VBS they have a special presentation time for the parents, by the end I was in tears because they called out the name sof kids who had committed their lives to Christ during the week and my oldest, Ethan, was one of them. However, in true Ethan fashion (or is it just boys), he acted like it was no big deal and couldn't quite get why I was crying and hugging him so much. It was a very special day!!!

Even our pets try to get in on the summer fun! Sassy, our dog, loves to play outside with the boys and Zander, our cat, tries to escape out the door at every possible chance. My most frequent saying all summer has been "DOOR".

Summer Pictures Part 1

2007-08-08T10:51:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures from our Holiday World mini-vacation in June. We go every year and it has now became the highlight of our summer. This year daddy was unable to go because of work, but my sister , Amber, came with us instead. We had a great trip!

Tagged by "Journey to Sofia"

2007-07-28T05:24:00.000-04:00

While surfing the blogging world very early in the A.M., I came across a great tag and thought this would be the perfect way to get going on my blog again. So, here it is, if you are reading this you've been tagged too! Leave me a comment so I know you stopped by to play!

Five Things I Was Doing Ten Years Ago:
1. Working as an LPN at Wildwood Nursing home.
2. DH and I had just purchased our first home.
3. Working with Jr/Sr High students at Old Bethel Methodist Church.
4. Taking pre-requisites for my ASN in nursing.
5. Trying to figure out married life and being an adult at the same time (very hard).

Five Favorite Snack Foods:
1. Fudge brownies with vanilla ice cream
2. Nachos
3. Anything that is freshly leftover from a restaurant dinner
4. Nutter Butters
5. Bologna and cheese sandwiches

Five Songs I Know All The Lyrics To:
1. Brave- Nicole Nordeman
2. Thunder Rolls- Garth Brooks
3. Girls Just Wanna Have Fun- Cyndi Lauper
4. Have Mercy- The Judds
5. What Kind of Church is This?- Calvary Temple Praise Choir

Five Things I Would Do If I Were A Millionaire:
1. Be a SAHM
2. Adopt more children
3. Travel with medical missions groups
4. Help my family
5. Remodel my house or buy a new one

Five Bad Habits:
1. I talk too much (sometimes it gets me in trouble).
2. I can be very critical.
3. I stay up when I should go to bed.
4. Shopping
5. Speeding

Five Things I Like To Do:
1. Take the kids swimming, hiking, to the zoo, museum, Holiday World
2. Date my husband
3. Decorate my house
4. Get a massage and pedicure
5. Visit new places

Five Things I Will Never Wear Again:
1. Parachute pants
2. High waisted jeans (so uncomfortable)
3. Tight rolled jeans (who thought of that)
4. T-Shirts tied to the side
5. Big mall hair (don't ask)

Decision Made

2007-06-08T15:41:00.000-04:00

I am very saddened to post right now but I wanted to let everyone following our journey the last month know the outcome of the committees decision. Jin Yu Man (Jenna) has been placed with another family. I believe the committee sought after God's will and did their best to place each child in the family they felt God had chosen for them. Thank you so much for your prayer support and friendship. We are blessed to have such wonderful friends!! (I am going to remove the pictures)

Something Fun!

2007-06-03T22:09:00.000-04:00

I found this on one of my ladybug friends blog site. I thought it would be
lite-hearted fun since I have felt very serious lately. Enjoy!

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Waiting for Genei!!

2007-05-25T00:18:00.000-04:00

Well we have now had our completed application into our agency for almost 2 weeks. The wait has been really hard for me, even harder than I imagined it would be. At times I have almost felt myself starting a panic attack at the thought of the other families applying for my daughter (in my heart she is mine). I have been giving these feelings over to God several times a day and praying that the reason I feel she is mine is because God has already declared that she is. I know the final decision is his and I am fully ready to accept His decision. I am comforted by God in so many ways. He has placed just the right thing at the right time to remind me of His love and plan for my life. This verse came to me through a daily Internet devotion, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6
God is so good. I will praise him at all times!!!

Please continue to pray for our family, for Genei, for all the orphans in China, and for the gospel of Christ to be spread throughout China!!

The Famous Brown Envelope!!

2007-05-25T00:13:00.000-04:00

The famous brown envelope arrived at our door on May 8. We were so excited to see something from China on the return address. They know about us, Yea!!!!!!!! This also came just one day after we decided to pursue Jin Yu Man. Lucky coincidence, I think not!!!

Why I love to buy for Genei!

2007-05-24T23:49:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to post some of the things I have either gotten as gifts for Genei or I have bought for her along the way. I love springtime because all the garage sales are happening and I certainly love a bargain. I know we don't have nearly enough yet but I will have a blast getting ready for her arrival. I pray she comes home quickly!!

Happy Mother's Day

2007-05-24T23:05:00.000-04:00

I had a wonderful Mother's Day this year. All the men in my life made it very special for me. Usually Mother's day it hard for me because of the loss of my own mother and this year I expected it to be even worse since it was also my mom's birthday, but after about a 30 minute pity party in the morning I consciously decided that I was going to have a good day and enjoy my family. And I did!! My Mother'd Day celebration started early in the week when my two youngest boys had a special day for mom at their preschool. While it was challenging to be in 2 places at one time (both boys had programs at the same time in different rooms), it was really special. Ethan also made me something special at his school and presented me with it on Sunday morning. Todd gave me lovly cards and some pretty flowers. What a great day. Enjoy the pictures!!

A Wonderful Gift

2007-05-24T22:58:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to share with everyone the beautiful gift Todd gave me (for Christmas I know this is a little late). Todd got this custom made necklace for me with Genei in mind. He knew the wait would be hard for me and wanted to give me something to wear that would remind me of her. I love the dragonfly and Amethyst is my birthstone. What a special gift from my dear husband. I will cherish it, thank you Todd!!

Disneyland pictures finally posted!

2007-05-24T22:52:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures from our April trip to Disney. We had a great time and really wore ourselves out (especially dad). Next time we go (which won't be for at least five years) we will definitely visit with all the Disney princesses.

Finding Genei!

2007-05-07T23:20:00.000-04:00

Today our adoption advocate, Carrie, notified us that their new special needs list had arrived. Immediately I went to the site to look at the faces of children in need and while Todd and I have been open to special needs we have tried to prepare ourselves for the long wait. Then I saw her name, Jenna, and my stomach started to get nervous and I knew I had to find out more about her.

Well here she is!! Her Chinese name is Jin Yu Man and she was born on August 27, 2006. She was abandoned at the gate of a hospital in Gui Ping City. Her surname, Jin, is after the city she was found in and Yu Man means "being filled with Jade and golden wealthy". Her special need is a 6x4cm hemangioma on the back of her neck. She weighed about 15lbs in Jan 07 and per her medical record appears to be a happy and healthy baby girl. Initially she was in a orphanage but was moved to foster care in Dec 06'. I am already in love with her and can't wait for her to be in my arms.

We will now be starting the process of applying with our agency to be matched with Jin Yu and this process will be the hardest thing we have had to endure yet in this journey to bring our baby home. First, anyone can apply for her with our agency until 5/31. Then all those that request Jin Yu will have their files brought before the matching committee at A Helping Hand where they have the difficult job of prayerfully choosing which family will be her forever family. Of course we know we are blessed to be with a wonderful christian agency that knows the ultimate decision is God's. The committee will be meeting on June 8 to make the match. This will be the longest month ever. When we are matched with Jin Yu we would most likely travel to China this fall to bring her home.

Please be praying for our family and Genei. I know we will need all the prayer support we can get for this exciting journey. God is awesome, amazing, and faithful. He will see us though this and work all things for His glory. "With God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

Visiting Family in California!

2007-04-20T17:09:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures of our family. We had a great time with everyone and had a big Easter dinner. I was so excited to see my grandmother doing so well. I will be posting more pictures later of Disneyland and the beach.

March Update!

2007-04-01T06:07:00.000-04:00

Well March has now come and gone and hopefully with the new spring weather arriving the viruses that have been passed around our house will move on too. In the last 4-6 weeks every person in our house has been sick at least once with Braeden and Garrett having been hit twice. I am ready to open all the windows and really air out the house and maybe douse everything in bleach. During all the illness we managed to celebrate Ethan's 8th birthday and Braeden's 4th birthday. They sure grow up fast.

We have also been getting ready for our big trip to California. Since December I have been planning a visit to my Grandmothers in San Diego. She is 92 years old and still lives in her own apartment. I try to visit as much as I can, but usually we only make it out about every 2 years. This year since I got such a great deal on airfare we are all going and we will also be taking in the sights at Disneyland. None of us have ever been so I am very excited. Shhhh!!! The boys only know about visiting grandma and the beach; Disneyland is a surprise. I can't wait to see their faces.

March 30th also marks the 1 year anniversary of starting our adoption journey. At this point I had hoped to be a lot closer to bringing Genei home, but I will put my trust and faith in God and wait on His perfect timing. I have hopes that the next batch of referrals are on the way. For now I am going to enjoy living inn this moment and try hard not to wish the days away because my boys are growing up too fast as it is and I want to cherish every day as the gift it is.

Next post will have lots of vacation pictures!

Birthday and Presents!

2007-02-18T23:48:00.000-05:00

My new camera!

OK, so I just had another birthday. I am officially 32 and although I'd like to say I am not worried or stressed out about getting older, it would be a lie. Vain as it may be, I now pay more attention to the little lines and wrinkles that have suddenly appeared and much to my dismay those ten extra pounds I put on last year are fighting hard to take up permanent residence despite my increased exercise. Nonetheless, I had a great birthday and my husband spoiled me with both a new camera and a new cat. We adopted Zander on 2/17 from our local shelter and I am certain once he gets used to our crazy house he will fit right in with the boys and the dog.

Birthday Wish - That Genei will be will us next year to celebrate. Here's hoping and praying!!!!

A letter for Genei!

2007-02-03T02:47:00.000-05:00

There is a small part of our family already in China with our daughter. It may not be at the same orphanage or even in the same city, but it is there in China with her. I had the awesome opportunity to write Genei a personal letter and cover her life with scripture. My letter to her is behind the tile in this picture and this picture was taken at an orphanage in the Fujian province. I feel very bleesed to have a small piece of my heart there with her while I am waiting for her to be here with us. Please God be with her always and meet every need she may have and please bring her home soon!!!

Our Adoption Advocate

2007-02-03T02:33:00.000-05:00

This is really overdue, but in October we were blessed to meet our adoption advocate, Carrie McKean, while visiting my dad in Texas. I think it went well but my three boys certainly kept lunch lively. It was really amazing to talk with her about the adoption and our journey as well as what has led her to do the work she does. At the time of our visit she was preparing to leave for a "Friendship" trip in China, where she and several members of her family would spend two weeks visiting chinese orphanges and playing with the children. She and her family had an amazing trip and even left a little something for us behind. Read on to find out what!!!

The wait continues!!

2007-02-03T00:06:00.000-05:00

The CCAA has finished the review of the adoption application documents registered with our office before March 22, 2006.

The CCAA has finished the placement of children for the families whose adoption application documents were registered with our office before October 13, 2005.

Well there latest batch of referrals has finally rolled out and the news is pretty much the same as it has been for the past several months. The good news is that by next months referral batch we will finally be past our LID for 05', which will mean less than one year of dossiers ahead of ours. The bad news, if they keep at this pace it will be 2 more years before we get ours. I am trying to be patient and trust in God's plan but I admit it is difficult to do that sometimes. I will be trying update the blog since I've gotten behind.

Preschool Christmas Program

2006-12-25T04:25:00.001-05:00

Preschool Christmas Program

2006-12-25T04:18:00.001-05:00

Braeden's debut in the Christmas program. Isn't he adorable.

December Update!

2006-12-25T02:04:00.000-05:00

Whew, December has sure come and it seems is going just a quickly. This has been a very busy month for us all, as I am sure it has been for everybody. Our family has been enjoying most of the business with minor time off for tantrums, emotional melt downs, and exhaustion of course.

Ethan has participated in several activities this month. He started basketball practice in November and is really having fun being part of the team. Although his team is 0-3 right now, Ethan made three baskets at his last game and was very proud of himself as were we all. At school he was the Indian Chief in a play, made gingerbread houses with his class and Dad took off work to help, and he had great fun at the winter party that Mom and his brothers got to attend. Ethan also got to visit with Santa at the mall and made sure to tell him that what he really wanted was an electric guitar with an amp.

Garrett has also been very busy this month. At preschool he has made lots of crafts for Christmas and about the birth of Jesus. On Dec. 18th he played the bells and sang in the Christmas program. Not only did he look very handsome but he did a really great job. Garrett also saw Santa, he asked for a new set of legos and a doll for Genei. He loves his little sister and wants to make sure she is included in our Christmas celebration.

Braeden has been a little ball of energy all month and very excited about all things Christmas. Everytime he sees lights or decorations he says "look its Christmas". Braeden got to sing in the Christmas program at his preschool. His songs were "Away in the Manger" and "Jingle Bells". He had the very important job of carrying baby Jesus onto the stage. Let's just say I'm glad it wasn't a real baby and I gonna to have to make sure he doesn't pick up Genei without supervision. The program was adorable and really highlighted the importance of Jesus.

As for Todd and I we have been kept busy with work and the work of making Christmas special for the boys. Since Robby and Amber (my younger brother and sister) will be sharing their Christmas with us this year I have been trying very hard to make it special for our whole family. I got an ornament with all our names on it, including our precious Genei and I also purchased the Willow Tree figurine "Angel of Hope". We are so blessed this season to be surrounded with family, however we have hope and faith that God will bless our family even more by bringing Genei home very soon.

We wish you all very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year. Please be with us in praying for Genei and that with God's help by this time next year she will be home with us.

I've been tagged!!!

2006-12-16T00:58:00.000-05:00

Thanks Leslie for sending this on, it was really fun!!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Both, depends on my mood
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Oh he definitely wraps them!!
3. Colored lights or white? Mainly white, but we add in some red
4. Do you hang mistletoe? No
5. When do you put your decorations up? Ideally after Thanksgiving, but definitely before Christmas (ha, ha). This year it was on Dec. 7th
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Ham
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child: Sledding with my family
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I was five and I walked in on my parents putting together our toys on Christmas Eve.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Not any more. We used to but Santa doesn't bring any until after we go to bed now!
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? In red and silver
11. Snow! Love it or dread it? Love it when it's here and when it goes
12. Can you ice skate? Enough not to hurt myself
13. Whats the most important thing about the holidays for you? Making it special for my family
14. What is your favorite holiday dessert? Pumpkin cake with cream cheese icing
15. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Reading the story of Jesus's birth and singing him happy birthday before going downstairs to see what Santa has left under the tree
16. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving? Giving, I love to see the look on my boys faces on Christmas morning
17. What is your favorite Christmas song? Let It Snow!
18. Candy Cane! Yuck or yum? Yuck!

Visiting Grandpa in Texas

2006-12-03T23:15:00.000-05:00

In October the whole family piled into the minivan and took a rather long road trip the Dallas, Texas for a visit with grandpa (my dad). We had a great week visiting with our family and relaxing. While there we spent time at a pumpkin patch and at the Dallas World Aquarium. The aquarium is basically an indoor wildlife conservatory/zoo and some of the animals just roam lose. The atmosphere is beautiful. Grandpa also gave my husband and I a great treat because he watched the kids overnight so we could have our own mini-vacation. It was a very appreciated gift of alone time.

Some of the best times for us in Texas was getting to meet our adoption advocate, Carrie, and meeting Gary and Terri Casebier, another family adopting from China. On Monday 10/23 we met Carrie for lunch. We shared about our family and our desire to adopt and she shared about how she came to be an adoption advocate. Carrie left for China just 2 days after our meeting for a friendship trip. This type of trip focuses on spending time at the orphanages with the children. We sent a letter with Carrie to China for Genei. So now there is something of ours actually in China where our little baby girl is. Thank you Carrie for delivering something so special for us!
That same night we had dinner with Gary and Terri. They were so great and we really enjoyed meeting them and forming a friendship that will comfort us throughout this adoption process.

We also had the great excitement of finding out our LID while visiting. We are officially logged in at the CCAA (Chinese Center of Adoption Affairs) on 10/18/06. This starts our wait time, which right now is 14 months or longer. Please pray with us that the wait time shortens and that Genei will be safe and loved until we can bring her home.

Adoption Poem

2006-10-03T00:43:00.000-04:00

Adoption By Christy Masyr

God laid the desire in our hearts
From his wishes we will not depart.

Some say, “Why go so far away?
How much will you have to pay?
Aren’t there children in the U.S.A.?”

Whether a child is from here or there
Isn’t it our job to love and care?

Children are a priceless treasure
Blessings that we can not measure.

God wants us to hold them tight
Whether they are yellow, black or white.

We wish we could save them all
Sadly, we can only answer our call.

We must go to a foreign land
For us, this is what God commands.

Our China doll is waiting
There will be no hesitating.

We are sticking with our decision
Unless God makes a revision.

Cast your doubts and reservations aside
Come along and enjoy the ride.

All children should be taken in
Maybe this process you should begin.

I thought this poem was awesome and an explanation of why we feel China was the right decision for us.

Dossier to China (DTC)

2006-09-30T21:46:00.000-04:00

Finally our paperwork has been sent to China. On September 15 , 2006 our paperwork was sent to China for translation and from there it will go to the CCAA for processing. We should hear sometime in Nov. when our official "log in date" (LID) is. We expect it to be the last part of Sept. or first part of Oct. The LID will start the count down to Genei. We know the wait will be long and hard at times but we are trying to rely faithfully on God and His perfect timing for our family. Please continue to pray for Genei loving care and safety while we are apart and our patience in the waiting. Thank you all for your friendship and support.

The Paperchase is over!!!!

2006-09-07T02:07:00.000-04:00

We did it!!! After almost six months the paperwork is all done and on 9/6 was sent to Washington D.C for the final stamp of approval. Our family advocate Christa told us that after Washington we will be DTC (dossier to china) on Sept. 15. Finally something is moving fast. The next step is our LID or log in date this usally happens about 2 weeks after the DTC and officially marks the beginning of our wait. Currently the wait time after LID is about 13 months, but we are hopeful that this could move quicker. Whatever the wait we know God's timing is perfect. If we get "logged in" by the end of Sept. and the wait time remains about a year we would expect our referral (when they tell us about our child) sometime in Oct. 07'. We would then probably travel to get Genei in Dec. 07' or Jan 08'. It seems so far away but we will keep ourselves busy with the boys, school, and work and I'm sure the time will pass quickly. Please keep praying for Genei's health and safety as well as our financial needs to be met. God Bless!!!

P.S This photo of the boys will be sent to China as part of our dossier.

Update at last!!!

2006-09-05T03:05:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe that summer is over and that autumn is just around the corner. It has been an exhaustingly busy summer and time has passed too quickly. I will do my best to give a thorough and brief version of our summer events.

July- During July we finished and received our final copy of our home study and filed our
I-600A with the Immigration office. This form gives us approval for advanced placement of our adoptive child. We filed on July 17 and began the wait for our FBI fingerprinting appointment.

August- In August Todd and I celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary by taking a much needed weekend trip to Napanee, IN, Amish Country. We relax, slept in, and ate too much. We had a great time. On August 9th we had our FBI fingerprinting appointment. Then it was just time to wait on the last form from immigration so we can send our dossier to China. After about 2 weeks I found myself checking the mail daily for any sign of that form. In other news Ethan started the second grade and really likes his new teacher, Mrs. Kussy. Garrett started soccer and Braeden continues to be his normal high energy self chasing after his brothers.

September- The form is finally here as of 9/2. When I first opened the mail I didn't quite know what I was looking at, but after reading that we were approved for advanced placement and noting the very small type at the bottom that said form I-171H I was very excited. Todd, the boys and I went out to dinner and celebrated the final puzzle piece before DTC. We have made copies of our passports, taken some family pictures and should be able to send our paperwork to the agency this week. I know our wait is just beginning but it does at least feel like progress.

I will try to post again soon!!!

Overdue update!!!

2006-07-01T05:46:00.000-04:00

I can't believe a month has passed already. If the rest of the wait goes this fast Genei will be here before we know it.

The last month has been really busy in a lot of ways. I'll try to catch everyone up!!

As posted the Pampered Chef fundraiser was a great success. Thanks again to all of you who helped make it great.

We had a garage sale fundraiser the weekend of June 9-10. Even with the bad weather on Sat. we still made $300. We have raised a little over $1800 dollars for the adoption so far. Praise God!!

The paperwork is almost done. Everything except the home study is notarized and ready to go for State authentication. Our last home study meeting was June 21 and went very well. We are hopeful that the draft will be done mid-July. Once it is completed things should move quickly.

On the home front, school is out for the summer and the boys already have great tans. We spent 2 great days at Holiday World but came home very tired. The boys were talking about next years trip on the way home. We hope to get Grandpa to come up from Texas and go with us then.

Please keep us in your prayers!!

Adoption Update!!

2006-06-01T16:56:00.000-04:00

Mainly we are continuing to work on gathering paperwork and completing the required tasks.
Everyone has had their lab work done and all but Todd has had a medical exam. Todd had to reschedule his due to short notice on a trip out of town for work. Once these form are completed and notarized we will only be waiting on the completion of our home study to apply with immigration for Geneiveve's visa application. We did finally receive our birth certificates. And our first state authorized document (my birth certificate) is ready for consulate authorization. To us this is very exciting!!

Although it looks like it will be the end of summer or beginning of fall before we can send our dossier to China we are trying to be patient and trust in God's timing.

The summer business of having three little boys at home will take our minds off the waiting. We have a trip to Holiday World planned, vacation bible school, sports camps, and day camps, and Garrett will be starting soccer in August. Ethan is very excited to be a second grader and we hope to practice his reading, writing and math skills this summer so he will not forget.

Our next fundraiser is underway. A super-huge garage sale is set for June 9-10. Please come by to say hi and see if there's anything you need!!!

Fundraiser Update!!!

2006-06-01T16:44:00.000-04:00

It's official, our first fundraiser is over and it was a huge sucess!! With the help of family, friends, co-workers and even a few kind hearted strangers we raised $1508.73 towards our adoption. We can't thank those who helped enough. We are blessed to have a great support system of family and friends.

A special thank you to Jennifer Courtney, our awesome Pampered Chef consultant. She went above and beyond to help us with this project and has been one of our biggest supporters since the very beginning. We love you Jennifer, you are amazing!!!

The highest praise unto God, for without him nothing is possible and with him nothing is impossible.

Bonnie Mercer had the highest sales amount.
Susan Alvis had the most orders.
Kelly Martin, Miranda Hay, and Stacey Malone all won prizes in our drawing and received a free gift!!!

Thank you everyone for your help and support.

Encouragement from above!!

2006-05-16T22:23:00.000-04:00

This evening after a rain storm the sun came out. As the boys were playing outside, they spotted a rainbow right over our house. I ran in, grabbed the camera, and got an amazing photo (I will post it later). What makes it special is that for our paper work to China we have to send a photo of our house. I can't think of a better photo than one with a complete rainbow framing the home that our daughter will be coming to live in. I stood in awe of God's creative beauty and I felt like it was His way of saying "Hang in there, it will all be O.K."

God's Blessings

2006-05-16T22:12:00.000-04:00

Mother's day was nice and a little sad too(I miss my mom a great deal)! At church they had a special muscial duet "In My Daughter's Eyes" and pictures of mother's and daughter's from our church played across the screen as they sang. I thought of my mom and all she is missing but had hope in sharing those precious moments with a daughter of my own. It made me hopeful and sad at the same time. I have really been feeling discouraged this week with the pace of this process. China appears to be slowing their referral process even more, but we know God's timing is perfect, so please pray for us to have patience and trust in the Lord's plan. We are now in the second week of our fundraiser and we are being richly blessed. We have had a few people who have chosen to bless us with cash donations towards our adoption. Their generosity is amazing!! One special person gave us $100. We are so thankful of any donation or encouragement in any form.

In other news: Lab work for our dossier was done on Monday. Our homestudy interview is Wed. morning at 10am. I am excited and nervous too. And our birth certificates have been delayed. It has been over 4 weeks since I ordered them and still nothing. There's that need for patience again.