The Journey to Our Girls, God's Gift to Us.

Happy Easter Everyone!

2009-04-08T10:33:00.003-05:00

"He is not here" for he has risen as he said. Come see where the Lord lay.

THIS BLOG IS ENDING...LOSSES & NEW BEGINNINGS

2009-04-06T21:54:00.011-05:00

This has been some very difficult couple months for our family. On March 21, 2009 we lost our wonderful father. He was 86 and had been ill for the past months. Heaven is rejoicing for sure. He can now write on many others that he never got to write about. Wow! Below is the article that was in our Chicago Tribune a few weeks ago.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-hed-adair-26mar26,0,2909890.story

New Blog:

We felt that with some changes in our family, it was good to start a new blog that we will continue with some good news about our girls and our journey to bring them home. Please stayed tuned as I continue this incredible journey.

http://thejourneytoourgirls-continued.blogspot.com/

SOMETIME IN THE NEXT COMING MONTHS I WILL CONTINUE THIS JOURNEY. I REALLY HAVEN'T WRITING THAT MUCH LATELY. IT'S BEEN A VERY SAD TIME AND I JUST DIDN'T FEEL LIKE POSTING ANYTHING. SO I WANT TO START FRESH WHEN THE TIME COMES.

I THINK I WILL START THE NEW BLOG AT THAT TIME,WHEN THINGS START HAPPENING...OR WE HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS TO SHARE WITH EVERYONE. SO FOR THOSE THAT ARE CONTINUING TO READ OUR JOURNEY, PLEASE CHECK BACK HERE TO SEE WHEN I WILL START OUR NEXT CHAPTER...OR SHOULD I SAY NOVEL. THANKS!

Start with the Faith You Have...

2009-02-09T08:11:00.002-06:00

Is it possible to be filled with faith and doubt at the same time? YES! You can have faith that God wants you to do something and still be scared to death. Courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is going ahead and doing what you’re called to do in spite of your fear.You have to begin with the faith you already have: it may be just a little, but you start there. A beautiful example of this is the story of the man who brought his sick son to Jesus in Mark 9. Jesus looked at the man and said, “I can heal your son. If you will believe, I will heal him.”The father then makes a classic statement: “Lord, I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief.”Have you ever felt like that? “Lord, I have some faith. But I also have some doubts.” This man was filled with faith and doubt, yet despite his honest doubts, he went ahead and asked Jesus for a miracle. And he got his miracle – Jesus healed his son.Mustard seed faith moves mountains. No matter how weak or how frail you think your faith is, it’s enough to get you through what you’re facing because your “little faith” is in a big God.

Matthew 17:20 says, “If you have faith as small as the mustard seed, nothing will be impossible to you.” That’s not a lot of faith; in fact, it’s just a little faith. But what else does that verse teach? “If you have faith as the mustard seed, you can say to the mountain, ‘Move’ and it will be moved.”Mustard seed faith moves mountains.

Don’t get this reversed; we tend to read this verse backward; we want it to say, “If you have faith like a mountain, you can move a mustard seed” – as if it takes enormous faith to do a very little task.Everybody has faith. You had faith this morning when you ate your cereal – faith that your spouse didn’t put poison in your granola!You had faith when you sat down in your computer chair – faith that it wouldn’t collapse.Everybody has faith; the difference is what you put your faith in.Sometimes people will tell me they don’t want to surrender to Jesus until all their questions are answered; they don’t want to make a commitment until every thing is understand.God wants you start with the faith you have; and based on the example of the mustard seed, you don’t need a whole lot of faith to do great things for God.

You just need a little.So here’s a trustworthy equation:

Little Faith + Big God = Huge Results!

You take your little faith; “Lord, I believe! Help me with my unbelief!”
And you place your faith in our big God,
And then he’ll show you how he works out huge results.

Rick Warren -

Things go from bad to worse for us

2009-01-30T08:40:00.005-06:00

On Wednesday it felt like I'd been hit by the express train. Around 9:15am our company laid off 45 people. This was a complete shock to most people. With everything else happening with our family...this is almost too much to bare. It still hasn't totally sunk in. Still griefing some. It's like my whole life has been ripped apart. So now what? With no money...how can my adoptions happen? Will I ever be a mom? My heart hurts so much right now.

I spoke with my social worker and I'm going to wait to update my home study. I will then be doing the I-800 instead of the I-171. Found out there really isn't much of a difference which is good. I just can't think straight right now. But then I think "is God preparing me for something even better"? Something that will allow me to have my little one at home? I have no clue right now?

I was reading an excerpt from the Purpose Driven Life and it couldn't have been more perfect for today. I'll include it below.

Over the last two days we have looked at God's omniscience - that he knows everything, specifically everything about you and your life. We have been examining God's presence in your life by breaking it down into five areas. Today we'll look at the final two.God knows your fears. God knows everything that gets you stressed out. For instance, many of us today are concerned about the economy, and so we have financial fears.

And then we act as if God is unaware of our bills. "Don't you see, God?I'm going under! I'm not going to make it!" We're trying to stretch andmake ends meet. We get uptight, upset, and we worry. But worry is theresult of not realizing the omniscience of God. When we think that God doesn't know what's going on in our lives, thenwe think we have to take matters into our own hands. In effect, we'resaying, "I'll be God." Worrying is taking responsibility for things God never intended you to have. The truth is God is aware of all your needs. Prayer is never giving information to God. The Bible says, "...

Your Father knows what you need before you ask him" (Matthew 6:8 NIV). He's aware of every single need you have: financial needs, spiritual needs, sexual needs, social needs,emotional needs.God knows your faithfulness. Here's another benefit from the truth that God knows everything: He sees everything you do that is good and right.Every time you choose not to sin, every time you resist temptation,every time you take a stand because of God's Truth, he sees your faithfulness to him.

The Bible says every good deed will be rewarded, no matter how insignificant and regardless of whether anybody else on earth sees it. Every encouragement you give to other people, every kind word you give to your children, every time you do a thoughtful act for your husband,every time you pick up around the office when it's not your job, everytime you set up chairs in church or stuff bulletins, every act of courtesy, every time you refuse to gossip, every time you're positive instead of negative - God sees it all, no matter how small (Matthew10:40-42).Imagine yourself on a giant stage and you're the only person on that stage. You're acting out your life. In the audience there is only one person and it's God. He's out there clapping and saying, "I see that good thing you just did. Keep on going! Nobody else saw it, but I did. I know that thought you just had and I know it was a positive good thought. I saw it." So what should be my response? If God sees all the good things that I do and he's out there cheering me on, then my response should be, "Don't Be Discouraged!"

Some of you may be saying, "I've been trying to do the right thing in my marriage. I don't see any results. I've been trying to be the right kind of person and respond correctly with my kids or to my parents. I've beentrying to do the right thing at work or at school. And I don't know ifit's paying off. I don't see it making any difference in anybody'slife."God says, "I see it and it doesn't matter who else sees it." Nothing good we ever do is ever done in vain: "So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don't give up"(Galatians 6:9 HCSB). Knowing the truth - that God knows everything in your life, can either be very disturbing or very comforting. It depends on your relationship to him, whether you're trying to fool him or not. Have you been acting as if God is totally unaware of your life in any ofthese five areas? * God know your faults and failures, but he still loves you unconditionally.* God knows your feelings and frustrations, and he sees your hurt morethan anyone else can.* God knows your future, so he can tell what you need to know.* God knows your fears, and he wants you to hand your worries over to him.* God knows your faithfulness because he sees every good thing you do.The fact that God knows everything is a tremendous motivator for me to live a godly life. I realize that nothing in my life is in secret; nothing I face will hinder his ability to help me; nothing that is tocome will catch him by surprise; nothing I fear will be too big for God's strength; and nothing I do in his name is ever done in vain. God says, "I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out-plans totake care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hopefor" (Jeremiah 29:11 MSG). (c) 2009 Rick Warren. http://www.purposedrivenlife.com/

Our Marathon Race

2009-01-18T15:41:00.011-06:00

I received a good inspiring message from another PAP yesterday and started thinking about things that she had written. When most of us started this so called race it was more like a fast walk, but as time has progressed our fast walk has become more like an endurance race instead. All a sudden there are many obstacles in our way. Steep hills to climbs--some steeper than others. Sometimes it feels like you want to give up. I've never run a race before but I just know just from running a short distance I have a hard time just doing that. So how do you handle a endurance race? We didn't get good news that we expected from Kyrgyzstan. Things seem to still be getting "organized" right now.

I found something while searching today on the race God has before us and wanted to share this with you.

Running the Race with Endurance

“Run with endurance the race that God has set before you”.

God has a race for you to run! What a challenging and exciting thought—God has given me a race to run. God has designed a purpose for my life—a purpose that I can discover and fulfill. What is this race?

This race begins, not when you are born, but when you receive Christ and his gift of complete forgiveness. The race for me began 37 years ago when I asked Christ to f orgive me and come into my life and lead me. That decision was the end of my lostness—but it was also the starting gun of the race God set before me, and I’m still running that race!

The race is playing the unique role God gives you to influence others for Christ. Paul describes his race in this way in Col.1:28,29 (read; he uses the verb form of the noun translated “race” – agonizomai). My race has revolved around teaching the Bible here and elsewhere. Your race will be different than mine—but it will always revolve around showing and sharing Christ’s love both to people who don’t know him and people who do.

This race requires endurance for two reasons:

It is a marathon—not a sprint. It begins the moment you receive Christ, and it lasts until you die or Christ returns. As an amateur long distance runner myself, I know that the key is not how fast you start the race, but how consistently you run.

It is a steeple-chase marathon—it is filled with obstacles, including opposition from people who aren’t in the race and don’t want you to be in the race, from a cultural value-system that says to live for self instead of for Christ, and from demonic spirits that hate Christ and want to take you out of the race.

The fact that the author calls on us to run this race with endurance means that there is a danger that we will drop out of the race. All who receive Christ automatically go to heaven—but not all who receive Christ automatically finish their race. I’ve seen many start well but end poorly—including many who were key influences in my own life. It’s a very sobering thing, and it makes me want to be able to say with Paul (read 2Tim. 4:8).

How can we do this? What will help us have the endurance we need? The author gives us four keys—we’ll look at the first two keys this week, and the last two keys next week...

Key #1: Get rid of all suitcases
Last year, when I ran the Columbus Half-Marathon, I saw some bizarre behavior at the starting line. It was cold, and most runners had on extra shirts or even old jackets as they waited to start. But in the last 30 seconds, thousands of runners (including myself) stripped off every shirt but the one with their race number—and threw them on to the street. Everyone got as light as possible—because it’s a long race and you don’t want to carry any more weight than you have to carry! One thing I did not see—I did not see anyone picking up suitcases!
Read 12:1 middle. That’s the author’s point, isn’t it? You can’t finish this race with endurance if20you’re carrying extra weight! If you want to run this race, you need to get rid of all suitcases! Notice that the text speaks of two different kinds of suitcases:

The most common suitcase is “the sin that so easily hinders our progress.” This doesn’t mean that you can’t run the race if you commit sins (we’d all be out of the race!)—it means that you can’t stay in the race long if you are clutching on to and rationalizing things that you know God says are wrong and destructive. When you’re clutching on to and rationalizing sexual immorality or substance abuse/dependence, it will sap your motivation and stamina. When you clutch on to and rationalize bitterness and hatred, it will sap your motivation and stamina (Eph.4:32 context). When you’re clutching on to and rationalizing things like materialistic greed, it will sap your motivation and stamina (Mk.4:18,19).

By distinguishing “the sin that so easily hinders our progress” from “every weight that slows you down,” the author implies that even things that are not overtly morally wrong can be suitcases that we need to lay aside—because they simply don’t fit into the course/race God has set before us. Early in my Christian life, I devoted a lot of time to creative writing. But at a certain point, God showed me that he wanted me to use most of my (very limited) creative talent to de velop Bible teachings. I couldn’t do both to the extent that I wanted to, so I decided to drop most of the writing. And I haven’t regretted that decision. I was talking to a young brother recently who has decided that he needs to radically down-size his living situation so he can have more time and energy to devote to spiritual growth and service. It wasn’t a black and white moral issue—but God showed him that it was a weight that was slowing him down. Other such suitcases include: VIDEO GAMES; INTERNET SURFING; SHOPPING; SPORTS HOBBIES; TV/CABLE. Paul says these things may be lawful, but when they are enslaving you it’s time to put them down (1Cor.6:12).

How about you? Are you carrying any suitcases? Has God shown you that you’re clutching on to some sin that is hindering your progress? Has he pointed out a weight that is slowing you down? Have you been complaining to yourself that living for Christ is exhausting—when the real problem is that you’re carrying suitcases? Get rid of them! Agree with God—call a suitcase a suitcase, instead of arguing that it’s an energy drink. Give it to him and ask him to free you from it—and cooperate with any steps he calls on you to take to be free. It sure helps to have some Christian friends in your life in this area—to help one another identify the suitcases, to pray with one another to agree with Go d on this issue, and to help one another keep the suitcases on the asphalt instead of back into your hands!

Key #2: Get strength from other veteran runners
Read 12:1a. The image here is the stadium at the end of the marathon—filled with thousands of people who are cheering on the runners. Anyone who has run a marathon (or even half-marathon) knows how much it helps to have people on the sidewalk cheering you on. But these are a special group of fans—veteran “runners.” They are “witnesses to the life of faith”—specifically, the Old Testament “runners” that the author highlighted in chapter 11.1 The point is that if you want to run this race with endurance, you need to get strength from other veteran runners. They can give you insight, motivation, and encouragement to keep going when you want to quit. And you have access to thousands of them!

You can get strength from Old Testament and New Testament figures. This is a unique source of strength—the inspired record of how God worked through specific people to advance his plan to rescue a lost humanity. This is one reason to get into a daily Bible reading plan (explain CARSON, For the Love of God)—you will meet and learn a lot from these “runners” who have already finished well.

The Old Testament figures, like those recorded in chapter 11, will teach you a lot about how to run the race. One of the most encouraging things you’ll learn is that they were not super-heroes—they were normal people like you and me, who had weaknesses, character flaws, made mistakes, etc. Noah built the ark—but he also got drunk after the flood. Abraham followed God into a land he’d never visited—but he also chickened out twice about Sarah being his wife. Moses forsook the power and prestige of Pharaoh’s court and stood against his world’s super-power—but he also whined and complained and mistreated God’s people. David was a man after God’s heart who in many ways foreshadowed the Messiah—but he also fell terribly through his adulterous affair with Bathsheba. The point is that God is able to work powerfully through very flawed people—if only the trajectory of our lives is to trust him and follow his directions.
With New Testament figures, like Peter and John and Paul, you can read about what they did in Acts, and then peer into their hearts through their letters.

You can also learn a lot about mistakes to avoid by reading about Old Testament negative examples (cf. 1 Cor.10:6,11)—people who dropped out of the race, didn’t finish well. We’ll learn from one of those Old Testament negative examples (Esau) in two weeks...

You 2 can also get strength from reading biographies of other Christian workers—Christ-followers over the last 2000 years. You will learn about ordinary people like you and me who lived extraordinary lives for Christ. Here are some of my favorites: Against the Tide; Great Souls; From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya. You will be encouraged to see that these people had weaknesses and fears and all kinds of problems—yet God worked through powerfully to advance his plan because they stayed in the race.

You can also get strength from workers God has placed in your life. When you get in the race, God sovereignly brings people into your proximity who can help you learn how to run your race more effectively. They also are a unique source of strength because of the tacit knowledge about following Christ you can get from them.

I don’t know where I would be today without the veteran “runners” God put in my life early in my Christian life. They inspired me by their example to sell out to God’s race instead of living for myself. They gave me insight into the specific race God has placed before me. They challenged me to drop the suitcases I was carrying. They were there to urge me to keep going when I realized how difficult the race could be.

Today, I am one of the veteran “runners”—and a big part of my “race” is giving strength to other younger “runners.” But I still have a precious network of veteran “runners” that I lean on for advice, encouragement, correction, etc. I can’t imagine being in this race without them.
What about you? Are you flagging because you’re trying to run the race by yourself? Get strength from these other veteran “runners!” This is one of the best things about home groups—you get to be around other “runners” who have already run through the part of the course you’re presently in. You get to rub shoulders with people who have endurance, and who can teach you how to get it. You get to learn from them how to study the Bible’s “runners” and get strength from them. Don’t neglect this precious resources! Get involved, seek them out, ask them to mentor you, etc.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith 2 Timothy 4:7

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.

Please Pray for our Family

2009-01-13T12:19:00.005-06:00

Hi All,
It has been a very difficult time in our family these past few weeks. We are just trying to take one day at a time right now. These past weeks have felt like God is really far away. Everything is just been thrown up in the air and waiting for it to fall. We are really struggling with health and finances right now. Dad has been in and out of the hospital and is now in a rehab/nursing care facility for a short while. He has heart and lung problems. They said he will come home to hospice care.

Then on top of that our mother fell a week ago and broke her right wrist. So she is basically handicapped in the fact she can't do a lot with one hand. We have been doing our best to do what we can and be in three places at once along with work and taking care of our five furry babies. But we have had some wonderful, kind neighbors that have been bringing in meals at night. This really helps us greatly.

We still haven't heard anything about Krygyzstan but could hear something within the next few weeks. But we are wondering where the money will come from when the time comes for us to travel. We had hoped for bonus money, etc and now with the way our economy has been it's not looking good. We are really overwhelmed right now with everything.

The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Psalm 9:9 kjv

Let's have faith like Horton for 2009

2008-12-29T08:13:00.009-06:00

I was just reading an update I get from ICF and there was something that was in there that I felt was really good to share. Thinking back on 2008 we all had plans and hopes of certain things happening. Those in the adoption world especially. We all had hope that we'd have our little ones for sure for Christmas 2008. But Christmas has come and gone and we still have no children.

But...our paths are really chosen by God even though we have our own agenda...Right? We all have a day planner, but we have to give God the eraser. We have faith and we have to rely on it.

Having Faith in the Unseen
Horton Hears a Who" is chock-full of parables about taking things on faith. While the other animals in the Jungle of Nool where Horton lives believe only in what they can see, hear and touch, Horton has the openness and sensitivity--not to mention imagination--to make room in his heart for a larger worldview. His great (some might say godlike) ears can hear the tiny voices of the Whos on their microscopic world, and his even greater spirit can conceive of something wondrous that exists beyond the visible. Yet Horton's faith is also in himself--when others question his perceptions, Horton stands firm and continues to believe in that little voice he hears in his head, staying faithful 100%. Horton's faith allows for wonderful new experiences to come into his life. It also makes him a steadfast and true person with a strong sense of self. Though it can be tough for him when he's alone in his beliefs, it's ultimately vastly rewarding.

The Highlights from 2008:

Looking back the past year I wanted to list the "good things" of 2008. The past months have been sort of gloomy...either health issues, financial issues, etc...so I thought I'd at least put down the good things that have happened this past year.

Our wonderful trip to Aspen/Vail in Sept.
Meeting Ryan from the Bachelorette/Vail - Sept
Our trip to the Wisconsin Dells - August
Sharing fun times with friends that we don't see much - May /August
Our new Church building - July
Our new Office building - October
Semi good news from Kyrgyzstan - Dec

Happy New Year Everyone!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2008-12-24T12:27:00.005-06:00

Taking a blog break for the next couple days.

Merry Christmas!

Happy 2009!

May this coming year be the best yet!

Merry Christmas from our house to yours

2008-12-20T22:41:00.010-06:00

L to R: Mary, Callie, Daisy, Gracie, Martha, Aspen & Snowball

Wishing Everyone a very Merry Christmas and a

Safe and Healthy New Year!

*******

For God so Loved the World, that he gave his only

begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him

should not perrish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16

http://worriersanonymous.org/Share/Christmas/Marydid.htm

FTP Christmas Party and More

2008-12-20T16:53:00.005-06:00

We had our First Trust party on Monday last week. It was fun to see so many families. There were a total of 1100 this year that attended. Another nice time though. For our Christmas gift this year...we all got Trek 7000 Bikes. Pretty cool Uh? They are supposed to be delivered in the next few days. Bad weather has delayed it's delivery though.

We attended another party a week ago with a law firm at a country club near by. Very nice spread for sure. No skimping on food that's for sure. It was a select group. We had a great table and had a good time talking with everyone. The other party we attended was with my yahoo adoption group. There were about 35 of us including children. It was sort of bitter sweet though to see so many cute little girls. Hard to imagine that will be us some time hopefully soon. Here's a picture of all the children.

Ginger Bread Cookies for the party

We need a Miracle

2008-12-17T09:19:00.002-06:00

A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hidingplace in the closet.She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times,even. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to Rexall's Drug Storewith the big red Indian Chief sign above the door. She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention, but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing.She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good. Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!'And what do you want?' the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone ofvoice. I'm talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven't seen inages,' he said, without waiting for a reply to his question.'Well, I want to talk to you about my brother,' Tess answered back inthe same annoyed tone. 'He's really, really sick .... and I want to buy a miracle.''I beg your pardon?' said the pharmacist.' His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and myDaddy says only a miracle can save him now So how much does a miracle cost? ''We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I'm sorry but I can't help you,' the pharmacist said, softening a little.'Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn't enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs'The pharmacist's brother was a well dressed man. He stooped down and asked the little girl, 'What kind of a miracle does your brother need?''I don't know,' Tess replied with her eyes welling up. I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my Daddy can't pay for it, so I want to use my money.''How much do you have?' asked the man.'One dollar and eleven cents,' Tess answered barely audibly.'And it's all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to.''Well, what a coincidence,' smiled the man. 'A dollar and eleven cents---the exact price of a miracle for little brothers.'He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said 'Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet yourparents. Let's see if I have the miracle you need.' That well dressed man was Dr.Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing inneuro-surgery. The operation was completed free of charge and it wasn't longuntil Andrew was home again and doing well. Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them tothis place.'That surgery,' her Mom whispered, 'was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?'Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost...one dollar and eleven cents...plus the faith of a little child. In our lives, we never know how many miracles we will need.A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation of a higher law..I know you'll keep the ball moving!Here it goes. Throw it back to someone who means something to you!A ball is a circle, no beginning, no end. It keeps us together like our Circle of Friends. But the treasure inside for you to see is the treasure of friendship you'vegranted to me.Today I pass the friendship ball to you.Pass it on to someone who is a friend to you.

MY OATH TO YOU...When you are sad.....I will dry your tears.When you are scared....I will comfort your fears. When you are worried.....I will give you hope.When you are confused......I will help you cope. And when you are lost .... And can't see the light, I shall be your beacon...... Shining ever so bright. This is my oath ... I pledge till the end.Why you may ask? ...... Because you're my friend.
Signed: GOD

Have Yourself and Warm and Cozy Little Christmas

2008-12-05T14:05:00.002-06:00

glitter-graphics.com

Nothing really new...

2008-12-04T12:25:00.008-06:00

Tuesday: 12-16-08
There really isn't good news anywhere. We have no idea now when anything will be resolved for Kyrgyzstan. Some are saying some of the delays are on our end/our government. We will wait to hear what the Ambassdor has to say after the 20th. Just not a good way to end the year.

Monday: 12-15-08
There was another update on Friday but mainly said stuff we already knew. So it wasn't really that informative. They said that due to holidays, etc. that things weren't going to be worked out until mid-January. Just really not sure what is going on there at this time. Pretty much bummed right now.

Monday: 12-9-08
There still really isn't much to report. The Kyrgz Ambassador has gone over there (Bishkek) to help clear up some of the problems. She will be there a week. From what I've heard she is a powerful lady and can move things along. But from the posting we don't expect to see much progress until 2009. But then that's only 22 days away now. We did speak with our contact person Kate last night and she really didn't have much news to report. They are mainly waiting for the Ambassador to return. This still doesn't really make sense to me. Why wouldn't they want their children taken care of. The orphanages are getting fuller and fuller and this delay isn't helping at all. So until we hear good news I won't be posting much more. Enjoy the holidays as much as possible everyone. Remember...it's always the darkest before dawn.

Friday: 12-4-08
We got an brief update on Friday that said that things just might moving along next week. Gave a little hope that they would start signing the back load of paperwork. There are so many children that need families now. The orphanages are filling up quickly and directors are really upset about this now. They have written to the MOE and others to get things moving again. Please pray this happen quickly.

There hasn't been much news on the adoption front. Things keep going around in circles it seems. I doubt we'll know much more until next year. Maybe 2009 will be a good year. But until then...I think we just have to keep going and enjoy the holidays. Not an easy task...It's of course all about a "Baby"... A baby that came to earth to save us from all wrong. I wrote a friend to ask her if she thought that God was telling us "No" about adopting from Kyrgyzstan? Here is her reply:

I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God has lead our family down this road. Does God promise that all things turn out how we want them to? No, but He does take us on each journey for a purpose. How it ends is up to Him. I know that God wants us to hang on and trust Him and whatever the end result is, is still under His sovereignty. Nothing about any of this has caught God off guard, He knew about it all before it happened and desires to use it in our lives to make us more like Him. I wish I could say without a doubt that we will bring babies home, but I don't know that. All I know is that God has brought us this far and He will be with us through the whole journey. He will never leave us or forsake us.

Think of when Jesus came to earth. People were so excited that the Messiah had come. He would rescue them from Rome and tyranny. And Jesus did come to rescue them, but God's rescue meant the cross. In the end, it is the cross that saves us. If the people had their way, Jesus woud be king of Jerusalem and not Savior of the world (small k in king intentional.)

So we'll keep praying and trusting God...

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2008-11-26T16:35:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a very Happy and Safe Thanksgiving Holiday.

We have a lot to be thankful for even though the economy isn't looking good.

Remember: If the food can't fit on one plate...that's all you get!

Enjoy your day.

Faith

2008-11-23T14:43:00.003-06:00

FAITH IS NOT BELIEVING THAT GOD CAN...

IT IS KNOWING THAT HE WILL

Brief Update on Kyrgyzstan

2008-11-21T19:02:00.004-06:00

There really isn't that much to report on Kyrgyzstan. We got an update today from our agency that said that many now are aware of the delays...so at this time we just have to let those people do their job and not get in the way. Because dealing with another country is just so much different than dealing with our own country, we do have to be careful as to not "upset the apple cart"...This is their children we are adopting and we really have to do it "their" way as much as we don't like it. The only thing we can do is trust God to get us through this difficult time. We just have to also remember who is really in control.

One of those days

2008-11-20T16:06:00.011-06:00

Should have figured that it was just going to be one of those days when we left for work on Tuesday. We had just pulled out of our sub-division and right there at the corner was a seat belt check... They've been there before many times but normally right before a holiday...Thanksgiving is still 10 days away. We don't normally wear our seat belts except for longer travel. Oooops. They were getting many people that day. So that costs $110.00

Then when we got home that night our one dog Daisy had gotten into the closet and somehow opened the can with some candy in it. It was similar to Milk Duds but smaller. She must have gotten the lid off with her nose...and ate probably what was left...which was about half or quarter of it. Milk Chocolate isn't as toxic but it's still not good for smaller dogs. Her tummy was soooo full too...she had almost gained a pound. We decided to call the ER vet and they thought it was best we bring her in. She was really not feeling good at all. After a few hours there she was feeling back to her goofy self. So after leaving there...we were out more money that day. Like I said...One of those days.

Daisy

Hang in There!

2008-11-17T11:06:00.004-06:00

Quotes

It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves. ~Edmund Hillary

If you're going through hell, keep going. ~Winston Churchill

A bend in the road is not the end of the road... unless you fail to make the turn. ~Author Unknown

I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much. ~Mother Teresa

We must embrace pain and burn it as fuel for our journey. ~Kenji Miyazawa

The difficulties of life are intended to make us better, not bitter. ~Author Unknown

Rock bottom is good solid ground, and a dead end street is just a place to turn around. ~Buddy Buie and J.R. Cobb, "Rock Bottom"

God brings men into deep waters, not to drown them, but to cleanse them. ~John Aughey

Darkest Before the Dawn...PAP's

I'M TIRED!...

2008-11-09T15:21:00.006-06:00

Each day seems to just get harder and harder in this waiting game. I'm just getting really tired of not hearing things...or tired of thinking that we're going to hear some good news and then nothing! I'm tired of "Hope" I think I've just used that word way too much lately. I'm tired of telling everyone we're adopting and nothing to show for it. I'm tired of seeing our money go out the door and seeing nothing in return except to fill out more paper work because the time has run out. I'm tired of getting my hopes up and being let down. I'm tired of people asking "any news" and having nothing to say.

Jet Lag Remedy - Pine Bark

2008-11-05T21:33:00.002-06:00

Study shows pine bark reduces jetlag from PhysOrg.com
A new study published in the journal of Minerva Cardioangiologica reveals Pycnogenol, pine bark extract from the French maritime pine tree, reduces jetlag in passengers by nearly 50 percent. The two-part study, consisting of a brain CT scan and a scoring system, showed Pycnogenol lowered symptoms of jetlag such as fatigue, headaches, insomnia and brain edema (swelling) in both healthy individuals and hypertensive patients. Passengers also experienced minimal lower leg edema, a common condition associated with long flights.
[...]

America Elects A New President...

2008-11-05T12:52:00.003-06:00

It was an historic election and America has elected Barack Obama as the next President of the United States.

Happy Halloween Everyone!

2008-10-31T16:15:00.007-05:00

It's Halloween and it's a beautiful day today. Feels more like September than the end of October. Enjoy the pictures. Have a safe and Happy Halloween Night.

Happy Pictures of Our Crazy Five

2008-10-29T15:08:00.006-05:00

From Left to Right: Callie, Snowball, Aspen, Gracie & Daisy

Update from Kyrgyzstan - Our Continous Roller Coaster Ride

2008-10-28T16:53:00.011-05:00

Wednesday, Oct. 29th
Brief Update to this update: We found out a few days ago that it might not be a whole month...more like 10 days only. They are working hard to get answers. So we are hoping to know more next week. We had hopes of traveling this year but it sure doesn't look like it now. A referral though would be sufficient for Christmas
:-)

Tuesday, Oct. 28th
I don't normally post downers...but we got a brief update today from our agency Re: Krygyzstan. It continues to be a roller coaster ride for sure. The e-mail we got was not good news this time.

The MOE will be leaving for a month...which means nothing will get done. No dossiers signed off...no referrals...NOTHING! Our agency is doing everything they can to make sure everyone brings home their children. But right now all we do it wait to find out more. What else is new? This was not the news we expected to hear...since the last e-mail seemed to have some good news. I really feel bad for the ones that are waiting to go back to get their children. This must really be awful for them...but any one that is adopting from Kyrgyzstan this is not been good news.

120 E. Liberty - First Day / New Pace Maker for Dad

2008-10-27T20:17:00.003-05:00

Today was the first day at our new office building. Of course there are "bugs" that need to be worked out with any new building. But it's really nice. We were also there on Sunday to see what it looked like...Reception isn't complete yet and our President's office won't be done for another 8 weeks.

I took the day off since Dad had a new pace maker put in. His old one was 12 years old. And the battery had worn out. So I spent some of day at the hospital. By the time I left the hospital it just wasnt' worth going back to the craziness. Everything went well.

Just a brief update on Kyrgyzstan...

2008-10-24T14:00:00.007-05:00

We are still #1 on the referral list. Things had halted some due to issues in Kyrgyzstan. As of Friday though the problems were resolved and they should start signing off on dossiers again. Per our agency. That's good news for sure. We hope to know more this week about that. But we don't know when they will start with referrals again. We've sure waited a lot longer than most people have for a referral. When we started this journey with Kyrgyzstan it was supposed to be a TOTAL of 8 months. I think it's more like 12-14 months now. Booh Hooh!

We really need some good news!! Check back soon for more updates

Good Bye 1001 Warrenville Road...Hello 120 E. Liberty

2008-10-24T12:55:00.009-05:00

It's a crazy day today here at First Trust. We are here for the last time at 1001 Warrenville Road. After almost 4 years of plans, it's finally happening. We are finally moving for real! It's strange to think that FT has been in this building for 17 years. But the fact we will be minutes from home is going to be great! We won't miss it at all. There is a lot of construction around and that's one thing we won't miss the drive at all. The parking lot isn't complete yet so they will be parking in different places for the next couple weeks. We will be parking at our vet's office since it's so close by. We plan to go in on Sunday to get some things organized.

What to eat in Kyrgyzstan...

2008-10-23T14:16:00.004-05:00

Water – In Bishkek the tap water is generally safe to drink, but if you have a delicate stomach, or are concerned then boil the water. In rural regions – especially in the south – there are concerns about drinking water and it might be better to consider drinking mineral water. Bottled mineral water is available throughout the country but tends to be carbonated and a little salty, and can be an acquired taste.

Bread – In Bishkek there is a wide range of breads available. Outside the cities, the flat, round lepyoshka is found almost everywhere. Fresh, warm, straight from the tandoor (a clay oven) it is particularly pleasant. At meals it is usually broken, not cut with a knife and never placed on the table upside down.
Boorsok – pieces of dough, deep fried in boiling oil – is a traditional table “decoration”. They are produced in large quantities and spread over the dastorkan or table at every major celebration. An abundance of Boorsok is seen as a sign of generosity.
Kalama – a flat, unleavened bread – there is no yeast used in the mixture – baked quickly on the top of an iron stove. This is the most common sort of bread eaten in the yurts in the mountain pastures – the jailoo.
Kattama – another form of unleavened bread that is baked especially when there are guests. The dough is rolled into a thin layer and greased with butter and rolled to a spiral creating layers and baked on a hot iron stove.
Kuimak – liquid dough is fried in warm oil – and is eaten with sour cream.
Meat - The most common form of meat is used in Kyrgyz cuisine is mutton. Sheep have a high place in Kyrgyz culture and the Kyrgyz use every part of the animal for something. Sheep meat tends to have more fat than that from other animals, and so it should be no surprise that fatty meat is often considered to be the best. (There is even a Kyrgyz saying – “Cheap mutton has little fat”). In some households and festivals the Sheep's head, (the eyes in particular), may be offered to an honoured guest. Horsemeat is also highly revered and for special occasions and funerals it is common for a horse to be slaughtered and the cooked and presented to guests. Only young mares are used which have been fed on Alpine grasses, which are thought to give the meat a particularly good flavour. A great favourite in the countryside, (but also available in Bishkek) is chuchuk - a sort of sausage made from horsemeat. Beef is also found, but less often. Chicken is rarely used by the Kyrgyz – chickens being found among settled peoples rather than nomads. Pork is not used by the Kyrgyz, but can be found in Chinese and Russian restaurants.
Fish – Fresh fish are caught in the lakes such as Son-Kul and Issyk Kul. Popular are the dried and smoked fish that are sold by the roadside near Issyk-Kul .
Fruit and Vegetables – most of the produce is grown locally and seasonal and there is a wide variety – although recently more exotic fruits and vegetables are imported and available in the markets. You can encounter fresh produce, cooked, dried and preserved (jams/pickles etc.) Nuts are also very popular. In the South – look out for Walnut Jam, made from the fruit of the tree while it is still green – before the husk has formed – actually the “walnut fruit” is whole and in a sweet syrup rather than a thick jam.

Common Food in Kyrgyzstan:
Beshbarmak - Perhaps the most typical Kyrgyz dish. The dish is meant to be eaten with the hands, not with a knife and fork! - "Besh" means five, and "barmak", finger. Beshbarmak is served when guests arrive and at almost any festive gathering. There is quite a ritual involved in preparing the meal. The simple version of the dish consists of noodles, which are mixed with boiled meat cut into tiny pieces and served with a medium spicy sauce. Bouillon is then poured over the mixture.
Generally, a sheep is slaughtered, butchered and boiled in a large “ kazan ” (a large round pot) for a couple of hours. The bones with the meat still on them are then distributed to the assembled gathering. The oldest people and honoured guests are presented with the choicest bones first of all. The guest of honour is presented with the head – and by tradition should have the sheep's eyes. To the “Alksakals” – old men – go the thigh bone (“jambash”) – to the older women goes the fat tail (“kuiruk”). The legs and shoulders are distributed to the young adults present – and the smaller bones are reserved for the daughter in law of the household. Some meat is diced and and mixed with boiled noodles.
It is often followed by Ak serke – a broth made from milk mixed with kefir – and is thought to help settle the stomach.
The recipes section has a couple of recipes for you to try at home!
Ashlam-foo – a spicy dish made with cold noodles, jelly, vinegar and eggs.
Chuchpara – a form of meat dumplings – minced meat, onion and spices in dough, boiled in a tasty broth, served hot in bowls and eaten with a spoon. Sour cream can be served as a dressing (see Pelmeni, below).
Blini – (a Russian dish), pancakes, rolled and filled with meat, tvorok (a sort of cottage cheese), or jam.
Chuchpara – a form of meat dumplings – minced meat, onion and spices in dough, boiled in a tasty broth, served hot in bowls and eaten with a spoon. Sour cream can be served as a dressing (see Pelmeni, below).
Jarkop – stewed meat cooked with onions, radish and noodles, placed on boiled pieces of dough. Kerchoo – meated cooked in a fire like a barbarque
Korut - small balls of cheese made from sheep milk – they are diluted with water to make a refreshing summer drink, Chalap, (although it may be an acquired taste).
Kuiruk Boor – a snack consisting of cooked bacon (actually it's sheep's fat – not pig meat) and liver sprinkled with herbs.
Kuurdak – can be prepared from either mutton or beef. The meat is fried with onion and spices and served on a plate garnished with herbs.
Laghman – (another Uzbek dish) – flat noodles cooked in a stew of tiny pieces of mutton, potatoes, carrots, onions and white radishes. A Russian version, minus the noodles, called Shorpo, can often be found.
Manti – steamed dumplings filled with shredded meat (or sometimes pumpkins), usually eaten with the fingers. A word of warning – watch out for the hot, liquid fat that can come squirting out from them. Also, sometimes the meat can be fatty, or gristle.
Olovo – a dish which is cooked for especially honoured guests consisting of sheep's lungs marinaded in a mix of milk, spices, salt and oil.
Oromo – This is not usually found in restaurants, but you may be served it by a Kyrgyz family. It can be prepared with meat, or as a vegetarian dish. Potatoes, onions and carrots are shredded and spread onto a mat of rolled out pastry, which is then rolled into a roulette and steamed in a special pan called a kazgan (In Kyrgyz “oromo” means “roulette”).
Pelmeni – a form of Russian ravioli which can be served in a bouillon (or broth) or without, and usually smetana (sour cream). The Kyrgyz version is called Chuchpara – and is a soup with dumplings which are filled with onions, meat and fat.
Piroshki – flat dough filled with meat, potatoes, cabbage or sometimes nothing at all – sold by street sellers.
Plov – (really an Uzbek dish) - rice mixed with boiled, or fried meat, onions and carrots (and sometimes other ingredients such as raisins), all cooked in a semi-hemispherical metal bowl called a kazan over a fire. Plov is a favourite dish in the South and is served to honoured guests – the meal is not considered over until it has been served.
Samsa – (Samsi in the plural) are baked meat dumplings often cooked in a tandoor (clay oven). Once again, be warned of the heat and the fatty juice that squirts out when you bite into one.
Shashlyk – or Kebabs – meat cubes on skewers cooked over the embers of burning twigs. Mutton is the meat usually used, but it is possible to find beef, chicken, liver and even pork shashlyk. The meat may simply be freshly sliced or may have been marinated overnight. Be warned, if the meat is mutton, then almost certainly one of the pieces on the skewer will be pure fat ... the dripping fat onto the burning embers is thought to enhance the taste). Shashlyk is usually served with a sprinkling of raw onion, vinegar and lepyoshki.

Don't Quit

2008-10-21T12:36:00.004-05:00

The message I give you waits for the time I have appointed. It speaks about what is going to happen. And all of it will come true. It might take a while. But wait for it. You can be sure it will come. It will happen when I want it to.

Habakkuk 2:3 (NIRV)

****************************

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while, “He who is coming will come and will not delay.” Hebrews 10:36-37 (NIV)

***********************][
If you’re discouraged because of God’s delay in answering your prayers, understand the delay is NOT a denial. Just because the answer or the miracle hasn’t come – yet – that doesn’t mean God isn’t going to answer or that he’s forgotten you or that he doesn’t care about you. It simply means “not yet!”
Spiritual maturity is knowing the difference between “no” and “not yet,” between a denial and a delay. The Bible tells us, “He who is coming will come and will not delay” (Hebrews 10:37 NIV).
The delay may be a test of your patience. Anybody can be patient once. And, anybody can be patient twice. And, just about anybody can be patient three times. So God tests you patience over and over and over.
Why? To see how patient you are?
No, he does it to show you how patient you are. So you’ll know what’s inside of you, and you’ll be able to know your level of commitment. God tests you so that you can know he is faithful, even if the answers you seek are delayed.
If you’re discouraged, turn it around by remembering God teaches you patience during delay. Ask him to transform your discouragement into patience.
You may be going through difficult times right now and feel like dropping off the planet. You’re discouraged because the situation you face seems unmanageable, unreasonable, or unfair.
It may seem unbearable and inside you’re basically saying, “God, I can’t take it anymore. I just can’t take it anymore!”
But you can.
You can stay with it longer because God is with you. He’ll enable you to press on. Remember, you are never a failure until you quit.
Don’t quit. Resist discouragement and finish the race God has set before you.

FROM: Saddleback Church

On the Move - One Week from Today We're In...

2008-10-20T16:38:00.006-05:00

It's hard to believe that it's almost here...moving day here at FTP. Here are some previews of what the new digs will look like. We will only be minutes now from home. We will have to park in another area for the next 7-15 days...The garage won't be done yet. But it's official...we're moving.

How to Overcome Discouragement

2008-10-15T21:08:00.003-05:00

This sure seems to fit what's going on in the adoption world right now...Many are discouraged because of the waits, things we can't control. Check out Nehemiah in the Bible for more verses.

By: Rick Warren

Then the people of Judah said, “The work crews are worn out, and there is too much rubble. We can’t continue to rebuild the wall.” Nehemiah 4:10 (GWT)

*** *** *** ***
Discouragement is curable. Whenever I get discouraged, I head straight to Nehemiah. This great leader of ancient Israel understood there were four reasons for discouragement.

First, you get fatigued. You simply get tired as the laborers did in Nehemiah 4:10. We’re human beings and we wear out. You cannot burn the candle at both ends. So if you’re discouraged, it may be you don’t have to change anything. You just need a vacation! Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is go to bed.

Second, you get frustrated. Nehemiah says there was rubble all around, so much that it was getting in the way of rebuilding the wall. Do you have rubble in your life? Have you noticed that anytime you start doing something new, the trash starts piling up?
If you don’t clean it out periodically, it’s going to stop your progress. You can’t avoid it, so you need to learn to recognize it and dispose of it quickly so you don’t lose focus on your original intention.

What is the rubble in your life? I think rubble is the trivial things that waste your time and energy and prevent you from accomplishing what God has called you to do.
Third, you think you’ve failed. Nehemiah’s people were unable to finish their task as quickly as originally planned and, as a result, their confidence collapsed. They were thinking, “We were stupid to think we could ever rebuild this wall.”

But you know what I do when I don’t reach a goal on time? I just set a new goal. I don’t give up. Everybody fails. Everybody does dumb things. So the issue is not that you failed – it’s how you respond to your failure.

Do you give in to self-pity? Do you start blaming other people? Do you start complaining that it’s impossible? Or, do you refocus on God’s intentions and start moving again?

Finally, when you give in to fear, you get discouraged. Nehemiah 4 suggests the people most affected by fear are those who hang around negative people. If you’re going to control the negative thoughts in your life, you’ve got to get away from negative people as much as you can.

Maybe you’re discouraged because of fear. You’re dealing with fears like, “I can’t handle this. It’s too much responsibility.” Maybe it’s the fear that you don’t deserve it. It’s the fear of criticism. Fear will destroy your life if you let it. But you can choose to resist the discouragement. Say, “God help me get my eyes off the problem – off the circumstance – and keep my eyes on you.”

Hands

2008-10-10T10:23:00.004-05:00

Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands.

When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK.

Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking,' she said in a clear strong voice. 'I didn't mean to disturb you, grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK, I explained to her.

Have you ever looked at your hands,' she asked. I mean really looked at your hands? I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making. Grandma smiled and related this story:

Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life. 'They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor.They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back.

As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war.'They have been dirty, scraped and raw , swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse.

They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand. They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.

These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life. But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of God.'

I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my grandma's hands and led her home. When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and husband I think of grandma. I know she has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God. I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face. When you receive this, say a prayer for the person who sent it to you, and watch God's answer to prayer work in your life.

Let's continue praying for one another.

It's a Bear Market...

2008-10-10T08:40:00.007-05:00

In Loving Memory of Uncle Howard

2008-10-07T16:45:00.008-05:00

"Well done, good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord"

We had some more sad news yesterday that our Uncle Howard went home to Heaven after battling colon cancer for the past 2 years. We used to have so much fun with him over the years. We always loved visiting the Landons in Springfield. Learning the computer, walking the board walk in Ocean City. Going to breakfast on our way down to Ocean City...great meals at their house in Springfield. We love eating ice cream floats after arriving at their house sometimes very late at night before heading to Ocean City for the week. It was 2006 when we last saw him. Never thought that would be the last. We will really miss Uncle Howard.

************

Howard J. Landon, 82, of Wallingford . He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elizabeth Landon, his daughter Lu Ann Blumenstock (husband James) of Ocean City , NJ , son Mark Landon (wife Donna) of West Chester and three granddaughters: Allison Landon, Bailey Blumenstock, and Brooke Blumenstock.

Howard was a WWII veteran, having enlisted in the U.S. Navy immediately after graduating from Sharon Hill High School in 1943.

He served as a Radioman aboard the SS Young America and saw action in the Philippine Islands with the invasion of Leyte and was later stationed in Kagoshima Japan .Following the war, Howard received his Bachelors degree from the Drexel Institute of Technology in Philadelphia .Howard dedicated his career to providing services for the mentally handicapped, working 36 years for Elwyn, Inc. Howard was instrumental in founding Elwyn's pioneering Sheltered Workshop program. He later served in the roles of Assistant to the President, Personnel Director, Vice President for Communications, and Vice President for Government Affairs. He also worked with the Israeli government in founding Israel Elwyn, providing services for disabled Israeli citizens in Jerusalem . Howard was a member of the Ridley Park Presbyterian Church for 49 years, where he served as an elder as well as in many other leadership roles.Burial will be private. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service to be held at the Ridley Park Presbyterian Church on Sat., Oct.18 at 10:00 am. Donations may be sent to the Ridley Park Presbyterian Church in lieu of flowers.

FTP on the Move...2 more weeks to go...

2008-10-07T16:38:00.021-05:00

Will they be ready for us? In less than two weeks we will be in our new location at work. Downtown Wheaton. Things are progressing...it's really looking good. We are in the process of packing boxes now. Just a lot to do before the big day.

The Kitchen is almost complete. Finishing touches.

Earthquake in Kyrgyzstan

2008-10-06T09:06:00.004-05:00

MOSCOW, Russia (CNN) -- A magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck southern Kyrgyzstan late Sunday night killing an estimated 70 people and destroying more than 120 buildings, the government reported Monday.

The earthquake occurred near Kyrgyzstan's border with China.

Gulshat Kadirova, an official from the Kyrgyz Ministry of Emergency Situations, told CNN that casualty figures were preliminary and could rise as rescue efforts progress.
The weekend quake, measured by the U.S. Geological Survey Report, rattled all of Central Asia; however destruction is concentrated in the remote village of Nura on Kyrgyzstan's border with China.

"The remoteness of the villages hit by the earthquake, the absence of means of communications and the destruction of roads are hindering assistance to the injured," the Kyrgyz Health Ministry press service told Interfax.

The Health Ministry of Kyrgyzstan has set-up a crisis center in the region, however rescue efforts remain difficult, according to a ministry official.

The Kyrgyz Emergency Situations Ministry also sent humanitarian aid to the region.
"Four helicopters have just left taking food and blankets to the people affected in the area," a ministry representative told CNN by phone.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev sent a letter of condolence to Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, according to the Kremlin's Web site.

Medvedev noted Russia's readiness to offer assistance.
Bakiyev is scheduled to visit the destroyed region of Nura this week to monitor the search-and-rescue operations, Kadirova told CNN.

Temblors continued in Central Asia on Monday with two strong earthquakes striking part of Tibet within 15 minutes of each other.

"October"

2008-10-01T16:31:00.011-05:00

"October had come again, and that year it was sharp and soon: frost was early, burning the thick green on the mountain sides to massed brilliant hues of blazing colors, painting the air with sharpness, sorrow and delight--and with October "

"Trains cross the continent in a swirl of dust and thunder, the leaves fly down the tracks behind them: the great trains cleave through gulch and gulley, they rumble with spoked thunder on the bridges over the powerful brown wash of mighty rivers, they toil through hills, they skirt the rough brown stubble of shorn fields, they whip past empty stations in the little towns and their great stride pounds its even pulse across America. "

In Loving Memory of Genevieve N. Miller

2008-09-30T14:40:00.005-05:00

100th Birthday Celebration 2006

Genevieve N. Miller (October 3, 1906 - September 26, 2008)
Genevieve Newman Miller, a twenty year resident of Windsor ParkManor in Carol Stream, Illinois, passed away on Friday, September 26th. At the time of her death, plans were underway to celebrate Genevieve's 102nd birthday on October 3rd with family and friends. Plans have continued posthumously in memory of a virtuous woman who lived an exemplary life of faith and perseverance despite the growing restraints of age. It is never too late to honor a life lived centered in God to serve, rather than to be served. The source of Genevieve's security, guidance, wisdom, and power remained steadfast throughout her lifetime. As she aged, Genevieve grew in stature as a teacher, but never lost the desire to learn and grow as a recipient of grace; the Amazing Grace that promises a full and abundant life. Born on October 3, 1906, Genevieve would witness a century of change. She grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with her brother Harold under the strict discipline of her mother, Jennie Millburn Newman and papa-Oliver Wesley. She was raised in the Free Methodist Church and would later work for the Free Methodist Publishing House in Chicago. Genevieve graduated with an Associate of Arts degree from Wessington Springs College in South Dakota in 1930. She also earned a B. A. in Commerce from the University of Iowa in 1938. Certified to teach in Iowa and Illinois, she used her teaching skills to serve in multiple endeavors throughout her life as a pastor's wife and a senior citizen. Genevieve married Frank Miller May 1, 1942. He preceded her in death on December 29, 1982. Genevieve built a distinguished career with the Department of Veterans Affairs and worked in the Blind Rehabilitation program at Edward Hines, Jr. V A hospital in Hines, Illinois. She began her professional career as an administrative secretary and eventually worked her way up through the ranks to Assistant Chief of Staff. During this time she took graduate courses at the University of Chicago and the Hadley School of the Blind. Genevieve taught veterans from World War II, the Korean War and Viet Nam how to read and write Braille. While the blind veterans were being taught to see with their mind by depending on their other senses, Genevieve taught the therapists to see with their heart in helping to restore the dignity of the blind. She continued to teach and demonstrate what it means to see beyond outward appearances and absolutes. Her credo was patience and completion of the task at hand. Genevive retired in 1970 after 24 years of service. Although Genevive never had children, she was blessed with an extended family of nieces and nephews and the closest friends that loved and embraced her as their own. In celebration of Genevieve Newman Miller, a memorial service is scheduled from 11 AM to Noon on Thursday, October 2, 2008 at the Wheaton Wesleyan Church, 1300 S. President Street in Wheaton. Visitation will take place from 10:00 - 11 :00 AM. Interment will take place in Toddville, Iowa on Friday, October 3rd, Genevieve's 102nd birthday. Memorials may be directed to the Wheaton Wesleyan Church. Family and friends may sign a guest book at www.hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call the Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.

Steps to Waiting on God...Not Man

2008-09-29T11:48:00.008-05:00

It seems like lately that's all we've been doing...waiting and waiting and waiting. Does it ever get easier? Below are some readings I found on waiting that I thougth were good to share for those in the same spot right now.

Steps to Waiting on God

Isaiah 38.

We have often heard the phrase 'waiting on God.' We know it is important but are not sure how it fits into our Christian lives. Sometimes the actual word 'waiting' or the phrase 'waiting on God' or 'waiting upon God' is used in a scriptural passage. At other times, however the teaching is present without the express words 'to wait upon the Lord.' This slice into Hezekiah's life is like that. It gives us practical steps to waiting on God.

HEZEKIAHA CRISIS FOR TESTING:

Hezekiah gives us an example of waiting on God. He just heard some shocking news.In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him and said to him, "Thus says the LORD, ÔSet your house in order, for you shall die and not live.' " (Isaiah 38:1).

Hezekiah heard that he was going to die. This left him desperate just like it would leave you or me - absolutely shaken. The time frame for waiting here compared to Abraham is much shorter. We are talking about days rather than decades with Abraham. The training is different. But Hezekiah's matter was urgent. How would Hezekiah respond? We should note that God left no other door open for Hezekiah than absolute rejection of God. God simply announced through His prophet that he was going to die. There was no offer of promise that if he did this or that, then God would heal him. We often read this story as if God had given him a promise. But this is not the case here. So how did Hezekiah respond? How would you have responded?Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall, and prayed to the LORD, and said, "Remember now, O LORD, I beseech Thee, how I have walked before Thee in truth and with a whole heart, and have done what is good in Thy sight." And Hezekiah wept bitterly. (Isaiah 38:2,3, NASB).This announcement brought Hezekiah down on his knees to wait upon the Lord. He desperately prayed. Although his circumstances would be much different than ours, I believe we can see three important principles to waiting upon the Lord.

Trust
If we do not trust God, then we will get bitter. We will believe His love or doubt it. This is the ultimate test. The testing forces us to make an important decision on how we will relate to the Lord. If we believe the Lord doesn't care for us, then we will turn to despair (I am doomed), self-help books (own resources) or bitterness.Previous trust is important to establish a trust decision during a crisis. Hezekiah made this trust decision. He turned to God rather than away from Him. If we can't clearly think at such a time, just remember to turn toward the Lord.

Reject
We must consciously turn away from using other resources that we could turn to. We need to reject paths without God. The text is silent about this. But from this silence, we see that Hezekiah did not pull our his kingly reserves and see what could be done. This is because he believed God's message. Hezekiah would die. This was the end of his life. He realized that he had nothing else to trust in. He could have tested God's Word by seeking medical help or the sage of philosophers, but he didn't. If we are a bit confused as to what the next step is, remember that we are not to first look at our resources. We need to reject them, even consciously if needed. We need to trust in the Lord for His methods.

Pray
My advice to people seeking God's will is to pray and stop thinking; pray and stop planning; pray and stop talking. Did you ever talk with someone who was willing to talk to everyone but God about His problems?! Prayer is prayer. We are called to talk to God about our problems so we can sense what we should do. To be true, prayer does take on many forms and means, but essentially it is talking to God about your circumstances. We need to seek the Lord in prayer. Hezekiah had two parts to his prayer.

He asked God to remember him. Hezekiah needed God to remember his own plight. No one else could change things. Does anyone believe that God did not remember his situation? I doubt it. God knows everything. We can't say He forgot someone like we sometimes do. More than this, King Hezekiah stated asked God to remember him now. He really believed the prophet's word about his impending death. His window of life was short. He needed instant action.He told God about his life.This might sound a bit strange, but Hezekiah wanted God to remember what kind of life he had lived up to this point. If for any reason it was blocked from God's mind, Hezekiah believed his life was important enough to tell God about it. This was essentially telling God about his life and goals. He was no doubt hoping that God would reevaluate his circumstances. However, Hezekiah came short of asking God for healing. This didn't seem to make a bit of difference.

Hezekiah's prayer ended with bitter tears as his amen. The words he sent before God were soaked in tears from his heart. Various people will pray differently but all must pray if they are to wait upon God.

The Lord heard his desperate prayer. He did not need to wait long on God for an answer, but He did wait. He received an additional 15 years of life.

The principles above highlight that this waiting upon God is a process. This would not be the first or last time for him or us to wait upon God. God develops these life encounters so that we will be protected, strengthened, redirected and recommitted.

****************

"Waiting On God Not Man.... is the special process through which the Lord causes our eyes to turn to Him for help in time of need. By extending the duration or distress of our trial even a little bit, our weaknesses become apparent.It is at this point our hearts become desperate, our faith is proved, and our hope is purified. The process is so common that the phrase "Wait upon the Lord" or "Waiting on God" is regularly used.

We need to wait on God for a spouse, for a job, for healing, for wisdom, for ministry, etc. We might say that it is Satan tempting us, and in some cases he is, but at the same time it is God who is testing (proving) us. He is bringing us a step closer to Himself.Waiting on God is a crucial step in which our dependence upon God grows. Without this deeper awareness of God in our lives, God restrains Himself from giving us more grace.

Blessing without humbling brings increased susceptibility to temptation. This is the reason growth comes with tests. Humility keeps us from pride which makes us selfishly ambitious where we would otherwise forget the Lord.Waiting for the Lord is not easy. Our heart is often crying out in agony. We feel oppressed and constrained. We yearn for freedom and provision. Waiting upon the Lord for needed supplies is one common area in which He trains us. We have to be needy so that we are forced to look to the Lord for help. Our other resources are stripped away. Someone yesterday said to me, "But I don't like what the Lord is bringing me through." How true this is. We squirm, squiggle and squeak.

Ultimately then, waiting upon God protects us, deepens our trust in Him, forces us to seek His ways and brings Him the most glory.Waiting upon the Lord are times in which we do not have resources, answers, or direction. Instead we are often confused, poor, broken and limited. Our hope is focused on what happens after that season of humility, where we will experience a period of God's blessing. If we live by confidence in our own resources and abilities, will we not become self-confident? What glory does that bring to God?! But through this process, God enables us to depend upon Him so that we know it is only He who does wonderful things in our lives.Ultimately then, waiting upon God protects us, deepens our trust in Him, forces us to seek His ways and brings Him the most glory. They are times the Lord is testing whether we are really seeking Him and His ways. I can remember experience after experience where I have cried out to God for help and deliverance. When going through those times, I think that if I could just get out of this one pit all would be well. However, not long after the Lord delivers me from one set of problems, I find myself in another whole set of problems. And again I am seeking His help with the same kind of desperate prayer. It began to dawn on me that God has carefully planned out these 'pauses' in life in order to renew, strengthen, humble and focus us on God. This is much like the recommendation that one go around a fruit tree and cut off its roots - shocking it so that it will grow stronger and healthier roots. In this respect 'Waiting upon the Lord' is similar to pruning.

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FUNCTIONAL DEFINITION OF WAITING UPON GOD

Waiting upon God is exercising confidence in God's timing and help during difficult times.
Confidence in God not in my own resource
Purpose of this study of waiting upon the Lord: That we may fully understand this regular process that God brings His people through.
That we might learn how to embrace the Lord rather than to shun Him in these times.
That we better identify with God's goal that we trust Him more and bring Him more praise and glory
That we know how to encourage other people when they are confused by this process of waiting upon the Lord.

47th Birthday, Vail, Homeward Bound....

2008-09-24T07:59:00.014-05:00

We left Aspen around 9:30 so we could get to Vail for lunch. We stopped along the way in Glenwood Canyon to take some pictures. It was a lot nicer day than when we were coming to Aspen. We arrived in Vail around noon and took a few more pictures...found a place for lunch, brought some candy and then headed for Denver. We were hoping to get a earlier flight back home. We got to the airport around 4:30 plenty of time to get on the 7:10 flight home. Thank goodness there was extra seats. We were able to kill time on the computer, talking to a real cutie who happened to be a twin also and walking around the airport. We also saw some one from our church. It really is a small world. We arrived home around 10:30p.m. and it took forever to get our luggage and finally get to the car. We finally got home to our sweet babies around 12:30. It so good to be home. But it was a great time away.

Hunter Creek Hike & Aspen Mountain - Sunday

2008-09-17T12:36:00.026-05:00

It was another great day...sunny and clear skies again. We were picked up again around 9:30 a.m., but first we went to seet he balloons. Really neat to see. All these hot air balloons against the mountains. How cool is that? In the past we never really saw it to take pictures. After that we headed to Hunter Creek not far from town. It was a nice hike for us that aren't in great shape for the higher altitudes. We hiked for about an hour each way and then headed back. When we got back to the car there were people getting ready to ride so we were able to get pictures with the horses. We didn't get a chance to ride this time due to money and time. At least we got pictures. Hopefully next time. We headed then to town to meet up with Bill & Linda from Phila. Long-time friends we haven't seen in many years. It was great to see them again. We then took the gondola up to the top of Aspen Mountain for lunch and to see the view from the top. Even though the colors weren't out yet...it was still very pretty. There was snow on the mountains which helped some.

We enjoyed lunch outside with everyone. It was such a perfect day. We then headed back to our lodge to chill for a short while before dinner. We again went to the pool to hang out in the sun. Around 6:30 we headed back into Aspen for dinner at a very good seafood restaurant. It was another great day in Aspen.

Maroon Bells & Ashcroft - Pine Creek Cook House

2008-09-15T19:32:00.019-05:00

It was a wonderful and very full day today. Around 8:00 a.m. we headed to Maroon Bells to beat the crowds and spend some quality time there. We never get tired of seeing it again and again. It was just so nice to be there. Wasn't too crowded actually. The weather couldn't have been any nicer. It was cool and crisp when we left for Maroon Bells along with clear blue skies. Something we were really hoping for. We got there and there really wasn't that many people there...yeah! It was just so nice to take our time there and see all the beauty there is to see. Who ever doesn't believe God exists has to after being there. Only he can paint that beauty. Wow! This year the colors weren't quite out yet. It was a very late summer so it looks like it will be a late fall. At least there was snow on the moutains. That helped some. After a few hours there it was close to lunch to we headed to Pine Creek Cook House for lunch. This place is out in the middle of no where. Really pretty cool. Because the weather was so nice we were able to eat outside. It was just wonderful. Other times it was on the cooler side. We had a wonderful lunch and then headed back to our lodge before dinner that night. It was so nice out we went to the pool and got some sun.

Around 6:00 we headed to dinner in the town of Aspen. Katey joined us also. We love to visit her house where she lives. It's high up looking over the town of Aspen. As you will see we took pictures. We went to a really nice restaurant called Jimmy's. Really great food. We also sort of celebrated our 47th birthday there too. What a nice time. Thanks so much for dinner...

Vail - Ryan Sutter / Aspen - Thursday/Friday

2008-09-12T21:17:00.021-05:00

Ryan Sutter from the Bachelorette

Flowers in Vail

The covered bridge in Vail

The town of Vail, CO

We woke up early Thursday. Went to breakfast at Bob's. We then got going around 9:30 and headed to Vail. It started to drizzle about the time we got there. Took us a while to find the fire house. But it's right in town of course. We then parked and headed there not really knowing if we would see Ryan Sutter or not. There was one of the guys out side the fire house and we just asked to see Ryan. We were so glad he was available. We talked for a short time about this and that. It was just good to meet him. What a nice guy. Trista is very lucky to have him. Before we left we were able to get a picture of him. We then left the fire house and decided to walk around Vail for a short while. It was such a fun place to look around and take pictures. We also did some shopping there instead of shopping much in Aspen. We then left there and headed to Aspen. We arrived in Aspen around 2:30. After arriving it was on and off rain so we didn't really do much the rest of the afternoon. We meet Richard for a short while and then he left us and we went to dinner at an Italian restaurant in the Village. All in all it was a very good day. Turned in early again that night.

Our babies are with the pet sitter for the first time and are slowly adjusting. It was a rough night on Wednesday for her. Gracie wouldn't keep quiet. She kept barking and barking almost all night we were told. Today seems to be a little better. We will see what tomorrow brings.

Friday:

There's really not much to say about today. We were on our own mainly this day. We got up fairly early and it was a little overcast so we decided to go to town. At first it looked like it was starting to clear up so we were starting to head to Maroon Bells but when we got there it was buses only. On our way back we stopped at the stables to take pictures of horses and other animals there. We then went into the town of Aspen for part of the day. It was nice to just walk around. A lot of construction in town also. We then returned back around 2:30 to just chill out in our room. Around 6:30 we went to dinner at one of the other restaurants in the village of Snowmass. We split a burger and salad there. It was really good. We then went back and crashed again early. Found out the dogs are doing great! They are adjusting to us being gone. We miss them so much! Only a few more days and we'll be home with them.

Avon/Beaver Creek - Wednesday

2008-09-12T21:01:00.011-05:00

We're finally here!!! Seems like it's been a long time since we left home. We arrived into Denver around 2:30 on Wednesday. It was a good flight. We then went to get our rental car and got going to Avon around 3p.m. Arrived at our hotel around 5:30 that evening. We decided on Chinese for dinner. It was good. We then went back and chilled for a while...and called it a night early. Felt good to get to bed earlier for a change.

Monkey and doggie (Fizzer & Bongo) will be traveling with us now so look for pictures of them on this blog. They will be telling their own story of their travels to various places.

Our Aspen Adventure Begins...

2008-09-04T16:34:00.016-05:00

http://www.jango.com/stations/15675574/tunein?u=0&song_id=41414

Starwood Aspen / Rocky Mountain High--Colorado

http://www.jango.com/stations/20531298/tunein?u=0&song_id=41413

Leave on Wednesday around noon. Arrive in Denver at 1:30.

Drive to Beaver Creek to spend the night at Sheraton Mountain Vista.

Head to Aspen on Thursday Mid Morning...with a stop in Vail to hopefully see Ryan from the Bachelorette.

Staying at Stonebridge Lodge in Snowmass Village for the 4 nights.

Head back on Monday (our birthday). Flight leaves Denver around 9:30 or might catch an earlier one via standby.

It's your choice...Does God Exists?

2008-09-03T08:49:00.002-05:00

http://everystudent.com/features/isthere.html?gclid=CMDA_4TAwJUCFQKQGgodf2CZRQ

Our Non Labor Day Weekend - Summer is officially over!

2008-09-02T12:12:00.015-05:00

Pretty much a non-Labor Day for sure. Saturday was spent doing this and that for a short while and on to the pool for the afternoon. Totally a perfect day. We then went to dinner with a girl friend.

Sunday we went to church and then finally got to the pool around 2p.m. But it was again another perfect day for the pool. We then cooked salmon outside on the grill.

Monday another non-labor day...ran out to a few places and then headed to the pool again for the last time this year. It's just so hard to believe. It was just so hot yesterday with clear skies. It seemed more like the middle of the summer instead of the end. I just love the summer and being out side. But now we have to get things done at home. We've put off a lot to be outside. Now it's back to the real world. Booh Hooh! We did though find our paint color for the girl's room. When we know what's going on we can start the room...but not until then. We need some proof first.

Why do they call it Labor Day when we don't Labor Uh?

2008-09-02T11:55:00.006-05:00

The History of Labor Day
Labor Day: How it Came About; What it Means
Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.
Founder of Labor Day
More than 100 years after the first Labor Day observance, there is still some doubt as to who first proposed the holiday for workers.
Some records show that Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a cofounder of the American Federation of Labor, was first in suggesting a day to honor those "who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold."
But Peter McGuire's place in Labor Day history has not gone unchallenged. Many believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, not Peter McGuire, founded the holiday. Recent research seems to support the contention that Matthew Maguire, later the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists in Paterson, N.J., proposed the holiday in 1882 while serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York. What is clear is that the Central Labor Union adopted a Labor Day proposal and appointed a committee to plan a demonstration and picnic.
The First Labor Day
The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday just a year later, on September 5, 1883.
In 1884 the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday, as originally proposed, and the Central Labor Union urged similar organizations in other cities to follow the example of New York and celebrate a "workingmen's holiday" on that date. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and in 1885 Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country.
Labor Day Legislation
Through the years the nation gave increasing emphasis to Labor Day. The first governmental recognition came through municipal ordinances passed during 1885 and 1886. From them developed the movement to secure state legislation. The first state bill was introduced into the New York legislature, but the first to become law was passed by Oregon on February 21, 1887. During the year four more states — Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York — created the Labor Day holiday by legislative enactment. By the end of the decade Connecticut, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania had followed suit. By 1894, 23 other states had adopted the holiday in honor of workers, and on June 28 of that year, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories.
A Nationwide Holiday
The form that the observance and celebration of Labor Day should take were outlined in the first proposal of the holiday — a street parade to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations" of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families. This became the pattern for the celebrations of Labor Day. Speeches by prominent men and women were introduced later, as more emphasis was placed upon the economic and civic significance of the holiday. Still later, by a resolution of the American Federation of Labor convention of 1909, the Sunday preceding Labor Day was adopted as Labor Sunday and dedicated to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement.
The character of the Labor Day celebration has undergone a change in recent years, especially in large industrial centers where mass displays and huge parades have proved a problem. This change, however, is more a shift in emphasis and medium of expression. Labor Day addresses by leading union officials, industrialists, educators, clerics and government officials are given wide coverage in newspapers, radio, and television.
The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation's strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker.

A preview of our Trip to Aspen..It doesn't get much better than this!

2008-08-28T15:55:00.008-05:00

Here are some preview pictures of what we're going to be seeing in two weeks. Now does anyone wonder why we love it there so much? I think the pictures speak for themselves.

Some cool verses - Thanks Maria...These are great!

2008-08-26T12:40:00.001-05:00

Psalm 40:1

I waited patiently for the LORD; He turned to me and heard my cry.

Ecclesiastes 3:12

So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can.

Psalm 113:9

He gives the childless woman a family,making her a happy mother. Praise the Lord!

Getting Closer - Kyrgyzstan

2008-08-26T08:14:00.013-05:00

We received a brief update from my agency as to where things are (I had e-mailed my contact person to find out) and found out that the paper work (dossier) will be heading to Kyrgyzstan this week. Finally! that's really good news for sure. So it shouldn't be long we're guessing. There was also three approval letters sent out that families are waiting to receive. So things are moving slowly...just not exactly at the pace we all want.

Congratulations to those families...they are very close to getting their children home. It's about time!! :)

Kyrgyzstan Update...News Flash!

2008-08-15T12:27:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know we have moved to #1 on the referral list for Kyrgyzstan. So what does that mean? Hummm...Maybe a referral in Sept. Could we possible have a little girl home for Christmas? Stay tuned!

Wisconsin Dells & Lake Geneva Trip 8-8-08

2008-08-13T08:25:00.052-05:00

What a wonderful weekend we had. We left on Friday afternoon around 3:00. Traffic wasn't that bad considering it was Friday afternoon. We arrived in the Dells around 6:30 just in time for dinner. We decided on Italian for Friday and a steak place Saturday. We ate at a great place called Sarentos. We were able to eat outside also. The food was really good and of course we had left overs. We got back to the room and chilled for a short while. We watched some of the opening ceremonies of the Olympics but called it a night pretty early.

Saturday we got up around 7:30...had breakfast and then took a walk around the area. The Wilderness on the Lake was just minutes from us. But there isn't a lake anymore. It's just so strange to see it like that. Back in early summer there was a lot of rain and one of the leavys broke and the lake disappeared. Plans are to have it back again next summer. It's really a nice area. Late morning we went into town to shop. There were so many stores to look at. A lot the same but we managed to find something different in a lot of them. We got just odds and ends...sweat shirts, tee-shirt, bear stuff, candy, little night light cabin, Just a lot of stuff we won't see. Maybe a few things when we go to Aspen...it was really cool looking at everything. We had about 5 hours and then we had to head to the Time-Share presentation. It was nice to see what they had but would never buy into one. The rooms were really nicely decorated...but far chance someone could get those certain ones unless you spend big bucks. Not! Who can plan their live for the next ten years and expect to use it. Of course after saying "NO" they have nothing to do with you. Oh well...we then walked away with $50.00 in cash. Yeah! It was about 6:15 when we left there so we decided to go to dinner soon after. Every place we did want to go was expensive...but we found the place right next to where we stayed that was in our price range for what we ordered. Was very good. After that we had time to kill so we went back into town for more shopping and ice cream. We got back to the room around 9:30.

We left on Sunday morning around 9:00 to head to Lake Delavan/Lake Geneva. I (mary) got to know a family when I attended my first Home Study. We've talked a lot and did get to visit last year at their home in Lincolnshire. But there were a lot of others then so we didn't get to visit much. It's mainly been e-mails and phone calls. They just got home with their daughter from China in April. It was just so good to finally meet her. She is totally adorable. We arrived there around 11:30 and headed to Lake Geneva for lunch. We'd actually never been there before...just passed through town once. We had a great lunch at Popeys and then did some shopping. Thanks Stacey for the great time we had with you and Macey. We had so much to talk about...we headed back and went in the pool for a short while before heading back to Wheaton. We arrived home around 7:30. It was just so good to see our furry kids again. But we really had a great time. It was really a nice break for us. Staying in a hotel is always great! It's been two years since I did that...Sis did it last year in Door County. We just always seem to have fun where ever we go.

Let the Games Begin!!

2008-08-08T09:13:00.007-05:00

Opening Ceremonies

It's the day a lot of been waiting for...the start of the Olympics! Opening Cermonies have started already in China. 8:08 on 8-8-08.

Still Waiting

2008-08-08T09:12:00.001-05:00

Create your own glittery text at pYzam.com

The Journey to our Girls

2008-08-07T08:05:00.001-05:00

New Pictures of First Trust's New Building in Wheaton

2008-08-06T13:23:00.006-05:00

Things are moving along well. Here are some pictures of the garage in progress.

Adoption Poems

2008-07-30T12:36:00.005-05:00

What was given to them they passed on to me
A gift of warmth, caring, and love
Together made a family.
I thought I'd go on through this life, just one
Then something started to growA sense of something undone.
I realized what was missing was a child of my own
A collage of sunshine and laughter
Seeing friends with their children helped me set the tone.
But I knew I was beyond the point of actually giving birth
And I knew so many were without parentsLiving in different places all over this earth.
The red thread was tangled and I couldn't see
As it straightened, my vision slowly cleared
And I followed its lead.
My child was across the ocean, many miles awayIn a land rich with wonder and beauty
The oldest civilization, some even say.
So my journey finally started with a direction known
I'm coming to get you Katie, to bring you home
And what I will give you was passed on to me
Warmth, caring, and love, together a family.

A RED THREAD FROM CHINA....

A red thread to China was cast todayFrom us to a child so far away.
This thread symbolizes an attachment of hearts
That distance alone can’t keep us apart.
Her mother and I are caught in a chase
That time alone will bring us to face
This loving young child we want so much to greet
With love in our hearts before we did meet.
This tiny, thin thread may stretch, tangle or frayBut our love for her grows stronger each day.
Through the test of time it won’t break or severShe’ll be part of us forever and ever.
With oceans between us, the distance is spanned
By a love that is greater than man could have planned.
For God in His mercy loved her and us
And decided our family would be a great plus.
So for now we’ll just love her and pray every day
That God keeps her and loves her for us till we may
Travel to China, that land of great past,
To the side of our daughter, to hold her at last.

Wheaton Bible's First Service - 7-20-08

2008-07-20T20:06:00.008-05:00

Today was our first service at our new church. What a change from our old church. So much more room. It's just a longer drive for us so we will need to decide other ways to go to avoid some of the traffic lights. Seemed to take forever yesterday. It just doesn't seem possible that after almost 10 years of planning it's finally done. If God can build a church he can sure bring our girls home to us soon too.

National Anthems - China, Kyrgyzstan & USA

2008-07-09T22:15:00.009-05:00

Click here to hear Kyrgyzstan's National Anthem

http://david.national-anthems.net/kg.mid

Click here to hear China's National Anthem:

http://david.national-anthems.net/cn.mid

Click here to hear USA's National Anthem:

http://david.national-anthems.net/us.mid

Fourth of July Happenings

2008-07-05T20:55:00.019-05:00

Our Birthday Boys...

The Great Chef

49th Anniversary

Happy 4th every one!

http://www.greatdanepromilitary.com/Battle%20Hymn/index.htm.

It was a busy day yesterday. I trust everyone enjoyed their holiday. We started our day at our annual Parade. This year it just seemed a little too political. After that we did some errans and then our picnic started around 5:30. There were 13 in all. We had a perfect day for the 4th. After our picnic we headed to the fireworks. It's been a while since we actually saw fireworks. It was fun to see them again. Along with our country's birthday we also celebrated our parent's 49th Anniversary and our 2 furry boys birthday. We took some pictures that I've attached. Enjoy the pictures.

The Day after the 4th was another perfect weather day. We got up and took a walk around our neighborhood. We then went to our French Market in town. Always fun to see what they have there. Then we came back and hung out at our pool for the rest of the afternoon.

New Beginnings for Wheaton Bible Church...

2008-07-03T11:24:00.024-05:00

Welcome to Wheaton Bible Church.

Last night we all toured the new church. Wow!! That's all I can say. It's really amazing. It's just so big and so different from the other church. It's sure going to be hard to find people we know now. The murals on the walls for the kid's sunday school rooms are wonderful as you can see. It's just so strange to be in a new church after 46 years of attending the other one. But it didn't seem to strange in some ways. Out with the old...in with the new. I think it's going to be nice to have a new church that is just so much larger.

Chinese Fortune Cookie - Fortune

2008-06-28T21:47:00.002-05:00

"An unexpected event will soon make your life more exciting". Wouldn't that be neat if that was true?

Brief Update on what's happening with Kyrgyzstan Adoption

2008-06-23T11:16:00.007-05:00

It's been a while since I've said much about what's going on with Kyrgyzstan. So here's a brief update:

1. The 7 extra documents were certified and sent to Nightlight. Yippee
2. An e-mail was sent out from NL just updating everyone on what's going forward.
3. Weekly updates from NL starting now to what's going on. This is a good thing since so many rumors can fly around.
4. We were told that we are now 3rd in line for a little girl...so that means we could hear some good news in August. In April we were #6...so we've moved up 3 since then. That's really good news.

Stayed tuned.

Risk in Faith: Where God Guides, God Provides!

2008-06-20T13:52:00.001-05:00

What a perfect E-mail this was for today. This says it all!

By Rick Warren
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 (NIV)
*** *** *** ***
If God tells you to do something, he will give you the energy, talent, resources – whatever you need – to do it. Where God guides, he provides.

In 1979, I was finishing seminary in Texas when God said, “I want you to go to the Saddleback Valley and start a church.” There were two problems with that: I had never been a senior pastor, and I didn’t know anything about the Saddleback Valley; I’d never been there, and I didn’t know a single person there.

But my wife, Kay, and I decided to take a risk and launch out in faith. We loaded a U-Haul truck and moved with our four-month-old daughter to the Saddleback Valley.
We arrived during rush hour in January, 1980. I grew up in a town of fewer than 500 people, so when I saw the jam-packed freeway, I thought God had chosen the wrong guy.

But where God guides, God provides. We stopped at a real estate office and I met Don Dale. I said, “My name is Rick Warren and I'm here to start a new church. I need a place to live and I don’t have any money.”

Within two hours, Don found us a condo with the first month rent-free. Don also became the first member of Saddleback Church. Saddleback’s first service was in our home with just seven people – my family and Don’s family.

God began bringing others to join us in planting a church. And in April of 1980, 205 people streamed up the ramp at Laguna Hills High School for our first public worship service. It was amazing. I thought, “God! You have provided! This is the place we’re supposed to be.”

Kay and I believed in the dream and the vision that God gave us for the Saddleback Valley, and we followed that dream, even when it involved risks. If you’re going to live by faith, you’re going to have to take some risks. In some situations, you’ll wonder if God is going to come through. But keep believing – because where God guides, God provides.

John and Kate Plus 8

2008-06-19T16:03:00.004-05:00

Has anyone seen this show? Last night for the first time I actually watched it. It's really adorable. How does she do it with 8 kids? It amazes me to see how well she does by her self too. Wish I could be that organized. She doesn't get all freaked out either. That's really good. She said the one thing to getting organized is writing notes. Sure wish there was a organization class on how to organize your life or something like that. I'm sure many need it.

Here are a few links:

http://tlc.discovery.com/beyond/?playerId=203711705&categoryId=210014208&lineupId=252316881&titleId=744698880

http://tlc.discovery.com/beyond/?playerId=203711705&categoryId=210014208&lineupId=252316881&titleId=932592635

Tips For a Smooth Household
by Kate Gosselin

Tip #1 OrganizeAs a mother of sextuplets and twins, one of the best methods for keeping a family organized is lists! No one has the memory of an elephant! Keep a constant running list of "To Dos" and then cross things off as they are completed! My to-do lists consists of meals for the week, which loads of laundry need to be done, and which parts of the house needs attention. Lists will keep you and your family organized.

Tip #2 Shop on a BudgetShopping for a family of 10 means planning ahead and staying on a budget. The good news is that you can have healthy, home cooked delicious (even organic!) meals for a large family. Look for sales! Watch the sale papers and take advantage of store promotions, coupons and rainchecks. Keep a constant running list of things that are on sale and that you need at the store from week to week. This will avoid buying things that you don't need. It's also good to stock up on items that you use a lot of and that are on sale!

Tip #3 Prepare for OutingsPlan ahead! If outings are well thought out in advance, it will allow for a better time for all! Always take plenty of drinks, snacks, clothing and supplies. Make a mental plan of how the day will unfold and then adjust it as necessary!

Tip #4 Count Your BlessingsOn days that your role as mom seems mundane and pointless and repetitive(we all have those), remember to count your blessings! Take a moment, see all that is positive in your life and the life of your children and it will give you that boost that you need!

Tip #5 Promote SafetyTalk about different scenarios and what is safe and acceptable and what is not safe and what they should not do in different situations! Remind them to come to YOU as a parent if they hear something that they don't understand, think that is bad or don't know what it means. You want to position yourself as their resource person to keep conversation lines open. This needs to start at a very young age.

Tip #6 Provide OrderA schedule will help everyone in the family. It removes the guesswork and a lot of frustration. It allows the things that need to get done to get done because life becomes somewhat predictable.

Tip #7 Reward Your ChildrenReward them for their helpfulness and kindness—if only with your words, this will mean a lot to them. They want your approval!

Tip #8 Make Housework a Family AffairEspecially in a large family, involving all of the kids in the housework, chores, cooking, cleaning etc. This helps to provide family unity, and a sense of belonging. It also teaches kids to develop a strong work ethic. And encourage Dad to get involved—n our situation,much of what a successful mom is able to accomplish, is due to a very present and helpful dad!

Bring your dog to work day! Friday, June 20th

2008-06-19T11:34:00.008-05:00

Wouldn't it be so cool to do that? Anyone reading this...have you done this at your office?

Four Rules for Sleeping with Dogs

2008-06-16T12:40:00.010-05:00

Rule Number One: The deeper the sleep the heavier the dog. Most people who sleep with dogs develop spinal deformities rather than rent the heavy equipment necessary to move their snoring canines to a more appropriate part of the bed. Cunning canines steal precious space in tiny increments until they have achieved the center position on the bed - with all covers carefully tucked under them for safekeeping. The stretch and roll method is very effective in gaining territory. Less subtle tactics are sometimes preferred. A jealous dog can worm his way between a sleeping couple and, with the proper spring action from all four legs, shove a sleeping human to the floor.

Rule Number Two: Dogs possess superhuman strength while on a bed. As you cling to the edge of the bed, wishing you had covers, your sweet pup begins to snore at a volume you would not have thought possible. Once that quiets down, the dog dreams begin. Yipping, growling, running, kicking. Your bed becomes a battlefield and playground of canine fantasy. It starts out with a bit of "sleep running", lots of eye movement and then, suddenly, a shrieking howl blasted through the night like a banshee wail. The horror of this wake-up call haunts you for years. It's particularly devastating when your pup insists on sleeping curled around your head like a demented Daniel Boone cap.

Rule Number Three: The deeper the sleep, the louder the dog.
The night creeps on and you fall asleep in the 3 inches of bed not claimed by a dog. The dog dreams quiet slightly and the heap of dog flesh sleeps - breathing heavily and passing wind. Then, too soon, it's dawn and the heap stirs. Each dog has a distinctive and unpleasant method of waking the pack. One may position itself centimeters from a face and stare until you wake. The clever dog obtains excellent results by simply sneezing on your face, or they could romp all over your sleeping bodies - or the ever-loving insertion of a tongue in an unsuspecting ear.

Rule Number Four: When the dog wakes - you wake.
So, why do we put up with this? There's no sane reason. Perhaps it's just that we're a pack and a pack heaps together at night - safe, contented, heavy and loud.

Author unknown

We're going to Aspen

2008-06-15T22:15:00.003-05:00

We just recently confirmed our trip to Aspen, CO in Sept. We can't wait. We are planning to drive from Denver to Aspen stopping in Beaver Creek for the night. We will then stay in Aspen/Snowmass Village for 4 days. We hope to visit a lot of our favorite places.

Stormy Weather - Church Cancelled

2008-06-15T22:01:00.005-05:00

Today we woke to a very stormy day. It was very windy and rainy. It took down a lot of tree limbs around the college area. Our church was cancelled due to the fact there was no power. It seemed to be all over that area. Because of no power over at 703 we all ended up going out to dinner for Father's Day.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T17:43:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone had a enjoybable Father's Day.

Are you Limiting God's Blessing? Click here and find out.

2008-06-15T17:41:00.004-05:00

If you want the Best...especially the child that God has picked out for you...this is just the right sermon for you. Feel free to listen for a while.
A message from Charles Stanley, First Baptist Church in Atlanta GA

http://www.intouch.org/site/c.dhKHIXPKIuE/b.2287421/k.944D/This_Week_on_TV.htm

Delay is not rejection

2008-06-13T09:12:00.001-05:00

Although Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, he stayed where he was for the next two days and did not go to them. Finally, after two days, he said to his disciples, "Let's go to Judea again."
John 11:5-7 NLT God often delays His response out of love, as He works all things together for good.

Waiting with hope
Mary and Martha had sent their friend Jesus a message about the critical condition of their brother, Lazarus, and their urgent need for his help: "Lord, the one you love is very sick" (John 11:3). But instead of rushing off to Bethany, Jesus stayed where he was for two days before responding to Mary and Martha's plea. When he did arrive, he raised Lazarus from the dead in a magnificent display of his power.

Just as Mary and Martha struggled when Jesus answered their prayers for Lazarus in a time and way different from what they had expected, we get frustrated when the Lord delays in coming to us and answering our prayers.

As it did for the grieving sisters, two days (or two months or two years) of waiting can seem like an eternity to us. But in the midst of the "delay," God is not inactive. He is teaching us patience, perseverance, and faith and is planning to glorify himself in our circumstances. While we are waiting, he wants to cleanse our hearts and refocus us on Jesus. The Spirit always knows what will glorify God, and we can trust him when we're in the waiting room.

LORD, help me to wait for you in hope and perseverance, knowing that you will come. Grant me patience and faith in the waiting room of life yet to be.

God's Timing is Perfect! Right?

2008-06-10T10:37:00.008-05:00

Today referrals came out and they only got through the 20th of January and no referrals for our agency...was really hoping they'd get through the 22nd of January. Seeing this is just so hard. January referrals have now taken 5 months and they aren't even done with this month yet. This is where faith comes in...the only thing to hold on to. Because it's just so easy to give up. God does care about what's going on even if it is a new condo, or an adoption, etc. I have to think that when we got our condo his timing was perfect. We weren't really even thinking about it...and there it was for us. Everything we wanted in a bigger place. Soon after we moved out of our apt complex it went condo. Therefore, we would of had to have moved or brought anyway. Of course his timing and our timing aren't always the same. This is probably the hardest for a lot of people.

But if he's in control, we shouldn't have to worry about it. But that can be easier said than done. Just like most everyone else...money for IA is a big deal. I keep thinking, where will the money come from? Doing two adoptions at once is very expensive to say the least. So this is another thing to have faith on. Where does one come up with $40,000+? At this point I have no clue. But of course God knows. :)

Confident assurance: What is faith? It is the confident assurance that what we hope for is going to happen. It is the evidence of things we cannot see. God gave his approval to people in days of old because of their faith. Hebrews 11:1-2 NLT

Certain of what I could not see! I led my husband from one room of the condominium to the next.…"It's perfect for us. Let's make an offer." That evening Charles pored over the numbers, making sure we could afford it. "I think we can swing it," he said. I tingled at the thought of moving into our very own home. When the owners accepted our offer, I whooped with joy. "Thank you, Lord." …"We don't have the money now," Charles said soberly. "You're right," I said. "We don't have the money. But God does. I'm going to ask him for it." The sum of $10,000 came to mind. Each morning I prayed in faith, "Lord, thank you for the $10,000 now hidden, to be revealed according to your will." Was I treating God like a vending machine? Pop in a prayer and out slides the answer. I remembered times in my life when I have been more focused on my own agenda that on his will. But somehow this time was different. Our new home had come into our lives in such a miraculous way. With a failed job and a bankruptcy in our past, it seemed we had lost our chance to have a place of our own. I prayed, believing, sure of what I hoped for and certain of what I did not see. Two weeks before closing, Charles flew to Kentucky to visit his ailing parents. Charles told Robert about the condominium and my strange prayer.

A knowing smile spread across Robert's face. "I think I know the answer," he said. "Mom just released $10,000 to each of us form Dad's estate. I planned to tell you about it today." What had been hidden was now revealed—and the timing, God's timing, was perfect.

What is it about Change? Why is it so hard?

2008-06-10T09:30:00.005-05:00

Quotes on Change:
We all have big changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance.
Harrison Ford, quoted by Garry Jenkins in 'Harrison Ford: Imperfect Hero

Change has a considerable psychological impact on the human mind. To the fearful it is threatening because it means that things may get worse. To the hopeful it is encouraging because things may get better. To the confident it is inspiring because the challenge exists to make things better.
King Whitney Jr.

This isn't good or bad. It's just the way of things. Nothing stays the same.
Real Live Preacher, RealLivePreacher.com Weblog, January 03, 2004Anonymous author of RealLivePreacher.com

Here's what Dictionary.com says about change:

Audio Help (chānj) Pronunciation Key v. changed, chang·ing, chang·es v. tr.
To cause to be different: change the spelling of a word.
To give a completely different form or appearance to; transform: changed the yard into a garden.
To lay aside, abandon, or leave for another; switch: change methods; change sides.
To transfer from (one conveyance) to another: change planes.
To give and receive reciprocally; interchange: change places.
To exchange for or replace with another, usually of the same kind or category: change one's name; a light that changes colors.
To lay aside, abandon, or leave for another; switch: change methods; change sides.
To transfer from (one conveyance) to another: change planes.
To give or receive the equivalent of (money) in lower denominations or in foreign currency.
To put a fresh covering on: change a bed; change the baby. v. intr.
To become different or undergo alteration: He changed as he matured.
To undergo transformation or transition: The music changed to a slow waltz.
To go from one phase to another, as the moon or the seasons.
To make an exchange: If you prefer this seat, I'll change with you.
To transfer from one conveyance to another: She changed in Chicago on her way to the coast.
To put on other clothing: We changed for dinner.
To become deeper in tone: His voice began to change at age 13. n.
The act, process, or result of altering or modifying: a change in facial expression.
The replacing of one thing for another; substitution: a change of atmosphere; a change of ownership.
A transformation or transition from one state, condition, or phase to another: the change of seasons.
Something different; variety: ate early for a change.
A different or fresh set of clothing.
Money of smaller denomination given or received in exchange for money of higher denomination.
The balance of money returned when an amount given is more than what is due.
Coins: had change jingling in his pocket.
A pattern or order in which bells are rung.
In jazz, a change of harmony; a modulation.
Music
A pattern or order in which bells are rung.
In jazz, a change of harmony; a modulation.
A market or exchange where business is transacted. Phrasal Verb(s): change off
To alternate with another person in performing a task.
To perform two tasks at once by alternating or a single task by alternate means.

Transmute, transform; vary, mutate; amend, modify. Change, alter both mean to make a difference in the state or condition of a thing or to substitute another state or condition. To change is to make a material difference so that the thing is distinctly different from what it was: to change one's opinion. To alter is to make some partial change, as in appearance, but usually to preserve the identity: to alter a dress (to change a dress would mean to put on a different one). 3. replace, trade. 4. trade. 7. convert. 10. vary, mutate, amend. 18. transmutation, mutation, conversion, vicissitude. 21. exchange. 25, 26. replacement.
—Antonyms 10. remain. 18. permanence.

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-06-04T13:00:00.010-05:00

It's been a while since I last posted. Just so much going on I haven't had time to update things.

Memorial Day weekend was just so much fun plus nice and sunny...well most of the time. It might have rained a little on Sunday afternoon. But we were able to get all our flowers in. Yipppeee. It really looks nice too. It was a perfect day to plant. That evening we joined our neighbor friend for dinner in Naperville. For those that live around here...we had never been to the Riverwalk in Naperville. How deprived can we be? We had a wonderful early dinner at Sullivans Chart House. Great food. Then we walked the River walk for a short while and came back and had ice cream. What a great night it was.

Sunday was another nice weather day. Church in the morning and then around noon we got a phone call from our golfer bud...Blaine McCallister. He had arrived in town for a tournament in Glenview...Bank of America Open. We were sort of hoping he'd call on Saturday so we hung around home most of that day. It was just so good to hear from him again. We met Blaine for a nice lunch...and then came back to the house to watch car racing. There are just certain people in our lives that mean the world to us...and Blaine is for sure one of them. He has been a very special friend for over 20 years. We were supposed to meet on Monday but things didn't work out for him. We had hoped to get our annual yearly picture together. He had said when he called on Monday that he'd call back but he missed the cut and must have left on Saturday. The rest of the weekend we spent planting more flowers. I trust everyone else had a great Memorial Weekend too.

MARIA SUE CHAPMAN, DAUGHTER OF STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN, DIES IN ACCIDENT AT FAMILY HOME

2008-05-22T15:52:00.010-05:00

NASHVILLE, TN...5/21/08... At approximately 5pm on the afternoon of Wednesday May 21st, Maria Sue Chapman, 5 years old and the youngest daughter to Steven and Mary Beth Chapman was struck in the driveway of the Chapman home in Franklin, TN. Maria was rushed to Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital in Nashville, transported by LifeFlight, but died of her injuries there. Maria is one of the close knit family’s six children and one of their three adopted daughters.

More than five years ago, Chapman and his wife Mary Beth founded the Shaohannah’s Hope ministry after bringing their first adopted daughter, Shaohannah, home from China. The ministry’s goal is to help families reduce the financial barrier of adoption, and has provided grants to over 1700 families wishing to adopt orphans from around the world. Chapman is a five-time GRAMMY ® winner and 54-time Dove Award winning artist who has sold over 10 million albums and garnered 44 No. 1 singles.

The Chapman family is so grateful for the incredible outpouring of love and support at this difficult time.

* In lieu of flowers, the Chapmans request any gifts be directed to Shaohannah’s Hope. Donate here >

* Also, due to tragedy of Wednesday, Steven will not appear at the May 24th show, Artist appearing in his absence to be announced shortly.

Funeral Arrangements for Maria Sue Chapman. These times are open to the public if anyone would like to be a part of celebrating the life of Maria.
FRI May 23rd Visitation 5-8pm
SAT May 24th Memorial service 11am

At Christ Presbyterian Church
2323 Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville, TN
(615) 373-2311

Building Progress--Church and Office

2008-05-21T14:12:00.008-05:00

Here are some updated pictures of our new church and also our new office.

A little of This and That

2008-05-19T09:33:00.002-05:00

It's been a little nuts lately. There really hasn't been much to write about. Last weekend was really busy with Mother's Day and friends and relatives in town. So it was nice to not really have much going on this weekend. We ran out to the outlet mall again. But this time came home with nothing. We saw a few things that we might go back for in a few weeks.

We wanted to plant flowers but just didn't get to it. We'll look this week for some. The Memorial Weekend looks pretty good. Yippeeee. It's about time! Maybe we'll even get to the pool. Monday is supposed to be around 82. Seeing is believing. But it has to be sunny. We even turned the heat on this morning. It's almost June...

I attended the Asian Bridge silent auction on Saturday night. http://www.theasianbridge.org/ This was the second one and seemed to have more people there this year. It was fun to see some that I had met last year. They hope to raise enough for 4 grants this year for adoptive parents. They match what the person raises. For me though...I just can't do a fund raiser for adoption. It's just sort of strange to tell people to give you money so you can adopt a child. There are some people though that can.

There were some good things to bid on. Still waiting to hear if I got anything. I think I bidded on 4 items. I left right before the big auction which I couldn't afford anyway. It was raining some so I wanted to get home to the kids. It was past their dinner time.

We did get the I-171 from the USCIS people on Saturday. Yeah Hey. They had said two weeks. So we weren't looking for it yet. Martha also got finger printed at our local police station. I think this is the 6th or 7th time in the past two years we've been finger printed. We're all finger printed out that's for sure. We will have to renew our prints again for China in November I think. But will probably wait until Feb 2009 when the I-171 expires again.

So as you can see...not really much going on right now. A few of the families have gone to get their girls...one in China and another one left on Friday for her little girl in Kyrgyzstan. It's just so hard to imagine that with us. When are we going to hold our little girls. This is just so hard. Every day seems harder and harder. Nothing seems real...We picked out some more paint colors for the room. So we have a lot to choose from. Maybe when the room starts taking shape it will seem little more real...it has to. Nothing seems like it will change. I read today that the certain orphanages are expecting 40-50 children from the earth quake. Not sure if they are considered abandoned or what. Of course so many lost their only children.

NOTE TO READERS: Where in the World are you from?

2008-05-19T09:10:00.007-05:00

I'd love to know where everyone is from who's reading my blog. I'd like to hear from you. Maybe just a quick note to let me know what part of the world you're from. Something that I might not know about your country, state, etc. And maybe a good suggestion for Moms-to-be. Something that you found helpful, etc. We need all the help we can get. We only know about dogs.

Then when our girls get older it would be fun to show the various e-mails to them. It would be fun to look back and see how many people around the world contacted my sister and I.

Our e-mail address is theadair6@aol.com if you'd like to contact us. Looking forward to hearing from you where ever you are in the world.

Earth Quake in China Report

2008-05-15T08:20:00.008-05:00

On Monday there was a really bad earth quake in the southwest area of China. It was felt as far away as Beijing.

Below is a report from Great Wall regarding their orphanages.

As you know, several orphanages that Great Wall regularly receives referrals from in the Sichuan and Chongqing provinces have been directly affected by the catastrophic earthquake that occurred in China May 12, 2008. It is our understanding that China is doing their best to meet the needs of those impacted by the quake. Our Beijing office is trying to obtain as much information as possible regarding the orphanages in Chongqing, Sichuan, and the surrounding provinces. Currently communications with these provinces is limited. We do know that the CCAA has not received any reports of any serious injuries or fatalities for any orphanages. We have also received word on some of the orphanages in the hardest hit areas:

The Chengdu Social Welfare Institute did evacuate its children due to the aftershocks. They carefully inspected their buildings and there has been some foundation damage to the rehab building and there are cracked walls in other buildings. The children’s building is in the best shape and all children have been moved to the first floor but spend most of the day outside, weather permitting – or in the institution buses if there is rain. All of the Chengdu SWI staff is working around the clock to care for the children and keep them safe. All the children at the Deyang SWI are safe and accounted for; however this orphanage did sustain minor damage to its building. Nanchuan, Chongqing and Xiushan, have indicated that all of their children are safe and no damage to their orphanages was reported. All of the Children at Zhaotong, Yunnan Foster Care are accounted for and are safe. The children at Chongqing Children’s Welfare Institute and Yibin CWI are also all ok. The children were all evacuated until the tremors passed. The buildings only had minor damage and none of the children were injured. We have also been notified that Yuyang SWI, Fuling SWI and Liangping SWI had some damage during the earthquake, some of their buildings were destroyed. Among them, Liangping’s damage was the most serious, half of the yard of the institute collapsed, but fortunately, all of the staff and children in these three orphanages are safe and accounted for.

http://video.aol.com/video/video-category/2123777

Shop till you drop...

2008-04-28T09:19:00.008-05:00

That's what we did this past weekend. We are in desparate need of clothes for work...it's starting to get warmer and there seems to be very little to choose from in our Spring/Summer closets. I had gotten a gift certificate from the gang I work with for Ann Taylor so what better way of putting it to good use. We started on Saturday and spent time at the local mall... There were a handful of stores that were empty. The malls just aren't the same as they used to be anymore. Have you even noticed that at Christmas time they aren't that busy anymore? Then on Sunday we headed to the outlet mall. Love it there. So many good buys. It's been a while since we were there so it was fun to look around. Didn't really get much time so we will go back there again sometime. All in all it was a very profitable weekend.

Nightlight Christian Adoption Agency

2008-04-28T08:58:00.005-05:00

A little about Nightlight...Nightlight began in 1959...located in Fullerton, CA. Since 1995, the agency has been under the direction of Executive Director Ronald Stoddart. To get further information on Nightlight, their e-mail address is info@nightlight.org.

Statement of Faith...

We believe the Bible; the Bible is the complete, inspired word of God without error.

We believe in one God, manifested in three eternal and coequal Person: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.

We believe that the substitutionary death and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ provide the only ground for Salvation for all who believe.

We believe that Jesus Christ is sitting at the right hand of God and He can return at any time.

We believe in the sanctity of human life. We believe that mankind was created in the image of God and therefore is of inestimable worth and significance in all its dimensions from conception to the grave.

http://www.nightlight.org/

Re-connecting with Old Friends

2008-04-25T13:02:00.010-05:00

Winnie and Friends

Friends come in all types

Have you ever wondered how certain people are doing after so many years? I lost contact with some one very special to me a few years ago and have thought about him many times. So I recently decided to e-mail him to see how he was doing. I really wasn't to hopeful that I'd hear back...Most just get too busy. There seems to be many people that you lose touch with and then e-mail/phone them and they never respond....(I've lost contact with a few girl friends and have tried to connect again but no such luck.) :-( Just not sure why...which is why it hurts.

Anyway, yesterday I received an e-mail from this person... It was just so wonderful to hear back from him. Hopefully we can stay in contact every so often. There are just certain people in our lives that are too valuable to lose. Thanks again for your e-mail... :) Hopefully you will read this post. I think so many of us take people for granted and that people will always be around. So if some one does contact you that you have lost contact with...Please be nice and at least respond back, it just might be the last time you will ever hear from that person again.

East Meets West Conference/Baby Shower

2008-04-21T14:40:00.007-05:00

This past weekend I attended the East Meets West Conference here in the Chicago Area. It started out with a dinner on Friday at Gino's East. We got there a little late and the room was full so we had to sit in the bar area where they had set up a few more tables. We enjoyed taking to a family that came home in Sept with their precious little girl which happened to be the 2nd referral...the first one they had to give back because of medical reasons. What a hard time that must have been. The pizza was good and we only stayed about an hour or so since it was so crowded and very noisy.

I did get to meet Snow Wu...President of Great Wall. Very pretty women. It was really a good time. The sessions started at 8:00am and lasted till 5:00. I'm really glad I did signed up. I brought a few things home also....a stuffed goat puppet and and table runner along with a CD of Asian Lullabys. This conf. did make it seem a little more real...They did have some positive things to say and that China would not be closing their adoption process. (There had even been some rumors of that.) They can't predict when the referral process will speed up...but we just have to believe it will happen and my little girl is waiting for me to come and get her. The sessions I attended are listed below in purple.

Yesterday, I attended a baby shower for one of the girls in our Fox Valley group that is heading to China in a few weeks to get her baby girl Autumn. There was 18 of us there plus a few of their girls. All really dressed totally adorable.

Here is the Itinerary:

Registration & Exhibits with Welcoming Remarks by Snow Wu. Also Dr. Ochs spoke. I will be e-mailing him to ask a lot of questions.

Session 1*

1A. Cross Cultural Parenting: A "How To" on Making Your Child's Culture a Part of Your Life

1B. Understanding the Adoption Tax Credit and Other Funding Options for Your Adoption

1C. Inter-Country Adoption and Effects on Attachment

1D. The Journey of Chinese Adoption

Session 2*

2A. Simple Chinese: Communicating With and Comforting Your Child

2B. Referrals: The Waiting Game

2C. Development Milestones for Talking to Your Child about Adoption

2D: The Dad Session Lunch Keynote Speaker

Session 3*

3A. Support in the Community

3B. Helping Adopted Children Cope with Grief and Loss

3C. Waiting Child Program: Older Children and Children with Special Needs

3D. Travel: Your Adventure in China

Session 4*

4A. All Grown Up! A Close Look at One Adoptee’s Journey

4B. Post Adoption Resources

4C. Meet the Adoptive Parents and Children

4D. Gotcha Day

Session 5

Q & A with Chinese Official and Orphanage Director

Bowling Tournament at FTP

2008-04-11T11:16:00.012-05:00

STRIKE!!!

We have started a bowling tournament here at FTP. We are in our second game now...my team lost the first game and the 2nd game we won by 2 pins. Yikes...that's way too close. It's been really fun though. Everyone seems to be having a good time. The winner will be determined sometime in July. So check back again to see who the winners will be.

Travel Suggestions

2008-04-07T14:53:00.007-05:00

Packing for your trip
Before you step on the airplane, there are several things you will need to obtain and take with you.
Passport/Visa - If you have not already done so, you must obtain a U.S. passport. Application forms are available at most U.S. post offices or local government offices. Processing time usually takes about three weeks. Once you receive your passport photocopy the front page and carry it with two passport pictures in a separate place from your passport. This will make the reissue by the local U.S. embassy or consulate easier if the passport is lost or stolen. Also, leave a copy with your love ones at home as an emergency backup. Visa requirements vary by country so you will need to check with your adoption agency or Travel Agent for further information.
Adoption documents - If you are traveling to bring your child home and/or to complete an adoption, bring copies of all vital documents specified by your agency (e.g. home study, police and medical certificates, legal approvals, etc.). Ensure that they are properly signed, notarized, county-clerked, authenticated, apostiled and stamped plus any other authorization you think might help speed things up. When the legal process is completed, you should obtain several extra authenticated copies of any documents issued. You never know when they may be needed (e.g. naturalization proceedings, social security number application, etc.) and it is easier to get them now than later.
Clothing and other personal items - You do not have to take your entire wardrobe with you. Business attire is only necessary to wear in court, but remember that appropriate attire for everyday wear tends to be more formal in many countries other than in the United States. Shorts and loud sports shirts probably won't do. Take comfortable walking shoes. If you're adopting, it is likely you will be given your child on the day you arrive so bring enough clothing for least the first few days of your stay. You will want to buy clothing for your child from his or her country of birth, so be sure to leave room in your suitcase.
If you are adopting an infant, stretchies are convenient, especially when you are not sure of the baby's size. Also include undershirts, socks, a cap, bibs, and sleeping sacks (especially if it's cold). An adequate supply of diapers is a necessity. Plan on using at least seven to 10 each day. The price of U.S.-made disposable diapers is high in most other countries. Baby wipes are useful but they are not plentiful overseas so bring your own. You will have better luck locating Vaseline, Desitin, and baby powder.
Medications - It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling to some of Earth’s most remote and wild regions or even to the next state, lost medications can be difficult to replace. Here are a few smart tips on traveling with your medication (courtesy of MedJet Assist - ask for details about their emergency evacuation insurance coverage).
Take medications in your carry-on luggage. The extreme conditions in the compartments where checked luggage is stored could damage your medication.
Bring medications with you in their original containers so that airport security personnel know that what you're carrying are prescription pills from your doctor.
Keep a list of medications that’s current in a purse or wallet in the event of an emergency.
Camera - A camera is an absolute must! Pictures help to preserve your child's heritage. If you use a video camera, take at least one extra battery. Most of the newer charging units have internal converters, but you will need the proper type of adapter plug. Film and blank video cassettes are available in most countries if you need them. Don't forget that many countries use the PAL video format, which is usually not compatible with our VHS format. To avoid problems with your duty-free allowances when you return home, register the camera with U.S. Customs before you leave..
Money - Whether you will be staying for just a few days or for many months, you will need to have adequate funds. It is risky to take large amounts of cash with you. Before departing contact your credit card company. Explain that you will be traveling and ask for a modest increase in your credit limit. If you are planning to take traveler's checks the most often recognized and easily exchanged are either American Express or Thomas Cook. Keep a list of serial numbers in a separate place.
Other necessities - If you are traveling with an infant, a "huggy-pack" to carry the baby in front of you will come in handy. It leaves your hands free and is great for sightseeing. For a toddler or preschooler, a fold-up canvas umbrella stroller is invaluable. You can use it to carry things when the child wants to walk. You can also "gate-check" it at the boarding counter so it can be used at each of your intermediate stops enroute. Ask the airline representative for details. The stroller usually does not count as part of your normal baggage allowance.

Making airline reservations
Your airline reservations should be made as soon as you have determined tentative departure and return dates. The cost of a round-trip airline ticket is dependent upon a number of factors including departure date, advance booking requirements, days of the week you are traveling, and the estimated duration of your stay. If you are traveling to adopt, we are usually able to obtain waivers for many of these airfare rules. Most tickets will be issued as e-tickets (electronic tickets) that will be picked up at the airport. Be sure you have the flight information and confirmation number (record locator) to speed up the check-in process.
Infants under the age of two will require a ticket (usually a paper ticket because the airlines have not yet developed the technology to produce infant e-tickets) between the international departure city and the point of first U.S. entry. It costs approximately 10 percent of the adult one-way fare plus all of the various taxes. On domestic flights within the United States, the infant travels free. Each child age 2 to 11 years requires a ticket between the international departure city and home that costs approximately two-thirds of the adult one-way fare plus all of the various taxes. Depending on the regulations of the destination country, these tickets can either be issued in the United States as e-tickets or carried with you as paper tickets or set up as a prepaid ticket for pickup in that country. Certain countries require the purchase of the infant or child's ticket there. We can advise you which option will be the least expensive.
Learning about the country
You will enhance your trip and your understanding of the culture if you read, read, read before you go. Start by locating information at your local library and through your Travel Agent. Ask for pamphlets or other general information from the country's embassy or consulate. Also inquire about the addresses for government tourist offices and trade organizations. The government tourist office can provide maps and specific country and city information. Ask for lodging, sightseeing. and other details. There is also a wealth of information available on the internet. In addition, learn some of the native language. Don't worry if your pronunciation is not exactly right because it will become better with practice. Take language classes, listen to tapes in your home or car, or read a book. You have no idea how much this will help to open up the doors to the country.
Customs and Immigration
After you've landed and collected your luggage. follow your fellow passengers to Customs and Immigration. Don't panic!
Immigration - Once you arrive at your destination, you will present your passport and Tourist Card (if required you will usually receive it on the aircraft). The officials will check you against their list of "undesirables," ensure you have the necessary visas and entry documents then stamp the passport with your entry approval. Make sure you hang on to the Tourist Card if it is issued because you will be required to surrender it when you depart the country.
When you return to the United States with the children you have just adopted, turn in the necessary papers (the big, thick packet you have guarded with your life on the trip back) to the U.S. Immigration officials. The documents will be processed and your child will be issued a temporary permit (a stamp in their passport) allowing entry as a legal resident alien pending receipt of the permanent "Green Card", a first step toward naturalization or confirmation of their citizenship.
Customs - In many countries the Customs inspectors have two lines: The green "nothing to declare" line and the red "something to declare" line. Normally you should use the green line. The officials may inspect your luggage, but normally they won't. Be certain you do not exceed any of the incoming allowances for cash or other controlled-entry items. When you bring back a child to the United States, U.S. Customs will ask why you were gone so long, what you bought, and whether you brought back fruits, vegetables, or anything illegal.
Taking in the culture
Ask about tours through a local tour operator or your Travel Agent. Go shopping! Find out about the handicrafts for which the country is known. Go shopping! Use your driver or strike out on your own to the local flea market or shopping district. Go Shopping! You never know what interesting things you might find.
If you are a member of a service club such as Rotary International, attend the local chapter's meetings. The members will be willing to help you in any way they can and the interchange of cultures is so very important in fostering the cause of world peace and harmony. When we were in Santiago, I regularly went to the Rotary Club de Providencia's weekly meeting. From the friendships we made we were invited to the club's Christmas party and to a member's home for dinner. Overall it widens your horizons and helps you to feel more at home.
Culture Shock
You first notice it when you walk out of Customs and Immigration. You can't put your finger on it, but the feeling is there. It's more than just a language difference, a physical difference, a clothing difference, and a difference in physical features of the people. It is a different culture, a different set of values. You are a guest in someone else's homeland and you must conduct yourself accordingly.
If you have done your homework, you will know about the customs that are different than our own. For example, in Central or South America the word "Manana" does not necessarily mean tomorrow - it just means not today. If you know this and accept it, then you should not get upset when things are not done according to the U.S. timetable.
Don't let the culture get the best of you. If you are uncomfortable, just think that many of the people would feel the same way in our country too. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance. Almost everyone will be glad to help and you never know what interesting friendships you might strike up.
Traveling home
As your trip comes to a close, it will be easy to think about relaxing. But, you must reconfirm your air flights at least 72 hours prior to departure or the air carrier may cancel your reservations. Request bulkhead seats from the gate agent for extra comfort. Then, once you're through the exit formalities, enjoy the flight home knowing your trip was a success because of the advance planning you did.
Timothy D. Swanson is an adoptive parent of 2 daughters from Chile and Paraguay and president of Federal Travel & Cruises; 3170 North Federal Highway, Suite 205, Lighthouse Point, FL 33064.
Contact Information - Let Us Give You a Quote!

Information and Fare Quotes: (954)942-8666 Reservations and Ticketing: Toll-Free: (800)551-8666 Fax: (954)942-4047 Address: Federal Travel & Cruises, 3170 North Federal Highway, Suite 205, Lighthouse Point, FL, 33064 USA E-mail: adoptravel@federaltravel.com

Kyrgyzstan Dossier to Agency - Paper work Complete!

2008-04-02T09:49:00.001-05:00

Just an update to say that the dossier was sent to Nightlight yesterday. Yippee. It was certified yesterday downtown and sent overnight. So...all the paper work is completed until further notice. Now we just wait to see what goes next. Anything can happen. So keep checking back. Found out I am #6 on the wait list for a baby girl referral.

Our home

2008-03-28T10:07:00.001-05:00

Wheaton Bible Church...First Service will be in July

2008-03-26T10:51:00.001-05:00

Here are some recent pictures of our new church building. First service will be on July 20, 2008. This will be a big change for a lot of people that have attended this church for many years. Sort of bitter sweet right now since this has been my church for 46 years. It's going to be a lot farther to drive so down the road it will be harder to get to. It will be nice though to have a lot more room but it will be a lot harder to see people we know. It could be weeks before we see the same people. So some will be surprised when our little girls arrive.

Kyrgyzstan at a glance

2008-03-26T10:40:00.000-05:00

Name: Kyrgyz Republic, Kyrgyzstan (conventional short), former: Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic. Geographic coordinates: 41 00 N, 75 00 EArea: 199,900 sq km (77,182 sq miles).Land boundaries: Uzbekistan 1,099 km, Kazakstan 1,051 km, Tajikistan 870 km, China 858 km.Climate: dry continental to polar in high Tien Shan; subtropical in southwest (Fergana Valley); temperate in northern foothill zone.Data code: KG Government type: republic National capital: Bishkek Administrative divisions: 6 regions and 1 city (shaar). Bishkek, Chuy Region (Chuy Oblasty), Jalal-Abad Region (Jalal-Abad Oblasty), Naryn Region (Naryn Oblasty), Osh Region (Osh Oblasty), Talas Region (Talas Oblasty), Issyk-Kul Region (Issyk-Kul Oblasty)Independence: 31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union) National holiday: National Day, 2 December; Independence Day, 31 August (1991)Constitution: adopted 5 May 1993Population: 5,067,000 (UN estimate 2002). Ethnic groups: Kirghiz 52.4%, Russian 18%, Uzbek 12.9%, Ukrainian 2.5%, German 2.4%, other 11.8% Religions: Muslim 75%, Russian Orthodox 20%, other 5% Languages: Kirghiz (Kyrgyz) - official language, Russian - official language (in March 1996, the Kyrgyzstan legislature amended the constitution to make Russian an official language, along with Kirghiz, in territories and work places where Russian-speaking citizens predominate)Time: GMT + 5 (GMT + 6 from second Sunday in April to Saturday before last Sunday in September). Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin continental plugs are standard.
The Kyrgyz, a Turkic-speaking people, constitute a slim majority of the multiethnic population of Kyrgyzstan. The constitution enshrines Kyrgyz as the country's state language, although Russian continues to be used widely. Kyrgyzstan became part of the Russian Empire in the late 1800s. In 1924 it was incorporated into the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) as an autonomous region, and in 1936 its status was upgraded and it became one of the 15 constituent republics of the USSR, officially called the Kirgiz Soviet Socialist Republic (SSR). The republic was also commonly known as Kirgizia under Soviet rule, and Russians continue to call it that today. Kyrgyzstan became independent from the USSR in 1991. In 1993 the republic ratified its first post-Soviet constitution.
The total area of Kyrgyzstan is 198,500 sq km (76,640 sq mi). The country is almost completely mountainous. More than half of Kyrgyzstan lies at an elevation higher than 2,500 m (8,200 ft), and only about one-eighth of the country lies lower than 1,500 m (about 4,900 ft). Glaciers and permanent snowfields cover more than 3 percent of Kyrgyzstan's total land area. An underlying seismic belt causes frequent earthquakes.
Kyrgyzstan is located at the juncture of two great Central Asian mountain systems (the Tian-Shan and the Pamirs). These two systems are geologically separated from each other in southern Kyrgyzstan, between the Alai Mountains of the Tian-Shan and the Trans-Alai Range (Qatorkuhi Pasi Oloy) of the Pamirs. The Trans-Alai Range, which is the northernmost part of the Pamirs, forms part of Kyrgyzstan's southern border with Tajikistan. The main ridge of the Tian-Shan extends along Kyrgyzstan's eastern border with China, on a northeastern axis. Victory Peak (known as Pik Pobedy in Russian and Jenish Chokosu in Kyrgyz) is the highest peak in the Tian-Shan system at an elevation of 7,439 m (24,406 ft). Located on the Kyrgyz-China border in northeastern Kyrgyzstan, Victory Peak is also the highest point in Kyrgyzstan and the second highest peak in the former USSR. A series of mountain chains that are part of the Tian-Shan system, including the Alatau ranges, spur off into Kyrgyzstan. Most of these ranges run generally east to west, but the Fergana Mountains in the central portion of the country run southeast to northwest. The Fergana Valley in the west and the Chu Valley in the north are among the few significant lowland areas in Kyrgyzstan.
The Naryn River, Kyrgyzstan's largest river, originates in the mountains in the northeast and flows westward through the middle of the country. The Naryn then enters the Fergana Valley and crosses into Uzbekistan, where it joins with another river to form the Syr Darya, one of Central Asia's principal rivers. The Chu River, in northern Kyrgyzstan, flows northward into southern Kazakhstan. Yssyk-Kul, the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan and one of the largest mountain lakes in the world, is located at an altitude of 1,607 m (5,273 ft) above sea level in the northeastern portion of the country.
Forests occupy 4 percent of the country's land area. Coniferous trees such as the Tian-Shan white spruce grow along lower valleys and on north-facing mountain slopes. Many rare animal species inhabit the woodlands, including the Tian-Shan bear, the red wolf, and the snow leopard, which are protected by government decree. Other animals in Kyrgyzstan include deer, mountain goats, and mountain sheep. Kyrgyzstan's mountain lakes are an annual refuge for thousands of migrating birds, including the mountain goose and other rare species.
Kyrgyzstan's natural resources include significant deposits of gold and other minerals. Also present are deposits of coal, uranium, mercury, antimony, nepheline, bismuth, lead, and zinc. Exploitable but small reserves of oil and natural gas also exist. The country's fast-flowing rivers provide hydroelectric power. Only 7 percent of the total land area is cultivated.
The country's climate varies by region. The climate is subtropical in the Fergana Valley and temperate in the northern foothill zone. The lower mountain slopes have a dry continental climate, as they receive desert-warmed winds from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, whereas the highest mountain elevations have a polar climate. In the valleys, the average daily temperature in July is 28° C (82° F). In January daily averages are as low as -14° C (7° F). Conditions are much colder at high elevations, where in July the average daily temperature is 5° C (41° F) and in January, -28° C (-18° F). Precipitation is between 100 and 500 mm (4 and 20 in) in the valleys and from 180 to 1,000 mm (7 to 40 in) in the mountains.
Commemorating the great Kyrgyz of the past The village of Kyzyl-Bairak has opened a monument in memory of Atake-baatyr and his great-grandson, Shabdan-baatyr, who did much to unite separate Kyrgyz tribes.
The memorial has been build trough donations gathered all over the country. President Akayev's children- daughter Bermet and son Aidar - are the initiators of the monument's construction.
Atake-baatyr stands on a pedestal with a snow leopard at his feet and a scroll of paper in his hands. The statue faces the sun rising from behind the mountains. In Russia in the mid-18th century Atake-baatyr was called the prince of Kyrgyz tribes. This year marks his 265th birthday.
The road to the memorial, which is going up, is covered with pink sand and has firs on both sides. A museum, left of the monument, keeps unique photographs and documents about the history of the Kyrgyz people. Some of these pictures and documentations have never been exhibited before.

FTP - Making more progress...Will we be moving in October?

2008-03-25T10:24:00.000-05:00

Here are pictures of our building...looks like progress is being made each day. The windows are in...But still a lot to do.

Where do you plan on spending Eternity? It's your decision?

2008-03-24T10:28:00.000-05:00

http://www.gnpcb.org/assets/tracts/eternity/

Easter Songs to Enjoy

2008-03-20T14:47:00.000-05:00

WELCOME HAPPY MORNING!

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/w/e/l/welcomeh.htm

“Welcome, happy morning!” age to age shall say:“Hell today is vanquished, Heav’n is won today!”Lo! the dead is living, God forevermore!Him, their true Creator, all His works adore!
Refrain
“Welcome, happy morning!”Age to age shall say.
Earth her joy confesses, clothing her for spring,All fresh gifts returned with her returning King:Bloom in every meadow, leaves on every bough,Speak His sorrow ended, hail His triumph now.
Refrain
Months in due succession, days of lengthening light,Hours and passing moments praise Thee in their flight.Brightness of the morning, sky and fields and sea,Vanquisher of darkness, bring their praise to Thee.
Refrain
Maker and Redeemer, life and health of all,Thou from heaven beholding human nature’s fall,Of the Father’s Godhead true and only Son,Mankind to deliver, manhood didst put on.
Refrain
Thou, of life the Author, death didst undergo,Tread the path of darkness, saving strength to show;Come, then True and Faithful, now fulfill Thy Word;’Tis Thine own third morning; rise, O buried Lord!
Refrain
Loose the souls long prisoned, bound with Satan’s chain;All that now is fallen raise to life again;Show Thy face in brightness, bid the nations see;Bring again our daylight: day returns with Thee!

CHRIST THE LORD IS RISEN TODAY!

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/c/t/ctlrisen.htm

Christ, the Lord, is risen today, Alleluia! Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia! Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!Sing, ye heavens, and earth, reply, Alleluia!

Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia! Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia! Lo! the Sun’s eclipse is over, Alleluia!Lo! He sets in blood no more, Alleluia!

Vain the stone, the watch, the seal, Alleluia!Christ hath burst the gates of hell, Alleluia!Death in vain forbids His rise, Alleluia!Christ hath opened paradise, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia! Once He died our souls to save, Alleluia!Where thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ hath led, Alleluia!Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

OH SACRED HEAD NOW WOUNDED

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/o/s/osacredh.htm

O sacred Head, now wounded, with grief and shame weighed down,Now scornfully surrounded with thorns, Thine only crown;O sacred Head, what glory, what bliss till now was Thine!Yet, though despised and gory, I joy to call Thee mine.

What Thou, my Lord, hast suffered, was all for sinners’ gain;Mine, mine was the transgression, but Thine the deadly pain. Lo, here I fall, my Savior! ’Tis I deserve Thy place;Look on me with Thy favor, vouchsafe to me Thy grace.

What language shall I borrow to thank Thee, dearest friend,For this Thy dying sorrow, Thy pity without end? O make me Thine forever, and should I fainting be,Lord, let me never, never outlive my love to Thee.

Happy Easter Everyone!

Here's what Easter is all about Charlie Brown...The Whole Story

2008-03-20T14:41:00.000-05:00

The first Holy Day celebrated by the Christian church was Easter--the day of Christ's resurrection. Lent is a time to prepare for Easter, and Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent.
The season of Lent is forty days, not including Sundays. Christ fasted in the wilderness forty days after his baptism. It was a time of prayerful preparation for the years of ministry that lay ahead for him.
Christ was baptized by John the Baptist in the River Jordan. As Christ, the Son, came back out of the water, the Spirit descended and the Father spoke--the trinity manifested in one event. (Matt. 3:16-17; Mark 1:10-11; Luke 3:21-22).
While he was in the wilderness, Christ was tempted by the devil. The first temptation was turning stone to bread, for He was hungry. (Matt. 4:1-4; Luke 4:3-4)
The devil persisted, taking Christ to the highest place on the temple and "daring" Him to jump. After all, wouldn't God send the angels? Christ rejected this temptation, too. (Matt. 4:5-7; Luke 4:9-12)
Still the devil tempted Christ. From the top of a high mountain, the devil offered Christ all the kingdoms of the world, but this time Christ sent the devil away. (Matt. 4:8-11) Christ healed the sick, aided the poor, and spread the good news of salvation.
On Palm Sunday, one week before His resurrection, Christ rode triumphantly into Jerusalem. The crowds cheered Him. (Matt. 21:1-11; Mark 11:8-10; Luke 19:36-38; John 12:12-13)
It was the week of Passover, and Jerusalem was filled with people who had come to worship. At the temple, Christ overturned the tables of the money changers. (Matt. 21:12-13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 19:45-46)
Thursday evening was the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Jesus and the Disciples shared the Lord's Supper. (Matt. 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:17-20; John 13:2a)
Christ was arrested in the garden of Gethsemane and was put to trial under both Jewish and Roman law. Although he could find no crime, the Roman governor Pilate sentenced Christ to die on a cross and "washed his hands" of the matter. (Matt. 27:24)
Before Christ was crucified, Pilate had Him flogged. The soldiers pressed a crown of thorns on His head and mocked Him. They spat on Him, and He was forced to carry his cross to Golgotha, the place of the skull. (Matt. 27:26-33; Mark 15:15-22)
Christ was nailed to the cross on Good Friday and crucified between two thieves. There He suffered and He died. (Matt. 27:32-56; Mark 15:21-41; Luke 23:32-49; John 19:16b-37)
Christ was buried in a tomb by Joseph of Arimathea, who wrapped Christ's body in clean linen, placed Christ in the tomb, and rolled a stone over the entrance. The tomb was sealed, and guards were posted. (Matt. 27:57-66; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42)
Christ remained in the tomb on Friday and Saturday. On the third day, Sunday, He arose, just as He said. (Matt. 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20

Beneath The Cross Of Jesus

2008-03-20T10:32:00.000-05:00

http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh297.sht

Click on for music

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/b/t/btcjesus.htm

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand, the shadow of a mighty rock within a weary land; a home within the wilderness, a rest upon the way, from the burning of the noontide heat, and the burden of the day.

2. Upon that cross of Jesus mine eye at times can see the very dying form of One who suffered there for me; and from my stricken heart with tears two wonders I confess: the wonders of redeeming love and my unworthiness.

3. I take, O cross, thy shadow for my abiding place; I ask no other sunshine than the sunshine of his face; content to let the world go by, to know no gain nor loss, my sinful self my only shame, my glory all the cross.

The Easter Story

2008-03-20T09:38:00.000-05:00

Knowing Christ
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son,that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.John 3:16

The ultimate message of the Bible is simple. If you want to know what God has to say to you personally, know that this one sentence says it all—God loves you.

God loves the whole world. He loves you, too. Anyone who tells you otherwise isn’t teaching the Bible.

He gave His only begotten Son. God loves you so much, He surrendered His one and only Son, Jesus, so that you could have everlasting life.

Whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. The Bible is clear: the penalty for sin is death. To perish means to die—complete spiritual separation from God. But whoever believes—simply believes—in Jesus will live forever with God.
That’s the basic message of how to be assured of a relationship with God and life after death.

Who is God?

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.Genesis 1:1
God. Who is He? The Bible identifies Him as the creator of all that exists. He made the world, which helps us understand our place in it. He made us—He made you. You have an undeniable connection with God whether you realize it or not.
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved usand sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.1 John 4:10

God loves us. God created us. He loves us—so much so that He sent His Son to restore our relationship with Him. Propitiation is a word that means “to restore into good favor.” Why does this need to happen? As the verse indicates, sin is the major reason. Sin destroys our relationship with God, but God in His love made a way for us to be restored.

Why we need God:

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.Romans 6:23

And He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.1 Peter 2:24
He gave His only begotten Son. The first verse tells us about the penalty for sin. Every person is guilty of some sin, some violation of God’s standard for what is right and wrong. The penalty for sin is death. All people die, and sin is the reason for it.

But the second verse tells us what it means that God gave His Son: Jesus died on the cross, taking the penalty of our sin on Himself. Imagine sin as a crime. On the cross, Jesus was convicted of every crime ever committed, and through His suffering, He was carried out the death sentence for each conviction. We don’t have to pay the penalty for our sin—we can go free and enjoy the life God has for us!

The Perfect Gift:

If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heartthat God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.Romans 10:9

Whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. This can be the simplest part to follow but the hardest part to understand. All we have to do to be assured of life after death in a perfect relationship with God is to believe in Jesus. If you acknowledge that Jesus is Lord—that He is the Son of God that He claimed to be who died to pay the debt of our sin—and truly believe that He was raised from the dead . . . you are saved from the penalty of death! Jesus proved that the power of death could not hold Him. If we believe in Him, His power over death extends to us as well.

What's next?
Just tell God what you believe. If you want to accept the free gift of salvation, simply ask God. Follow this sample prayer if it helps verbalize your feelings:

God, I know that I have done things that are wrong. But I believe that Jesus died on the Cross to pay the punishment for what I’ve done. I believe that He is Your Son, the Word of God, and I want Him to be my Savior. I want Him to cleanse me of what I’ve done wrong and defeat sin for me. In His name I ask You to welcome me back to You. I know that I have followed my own rules and served my own desires. But God, I don’t want to serve myself anymore. I want to follow You. I want to spend eternity with You! Thank You for Your wonderful gift of Jesus.

Talk to Someone.
If you would like to talk to someone right now about your decision and how to begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, please call toll-free 1-888-NEED HIM (1-888-633-3446).

On behalf of Moody Radio

Kyrgyzstan

2008-03-19T16:03:00.000-05:00

Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country of 5.2 million people in central Asia located south of Kazakhstan and west of China. Kyrgyzstan was annexed by Russia in 1864 and was a part of the Soviet Union until becoming an independent state in 1991.Kyrgyzstan is a republic bordering Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and China and is just smaller than the state of South Dakota. The terrain is mostly soaring mountains (up to 24,400 feet in elevation) with valleys and wide basins providing outstanding natural beauty. Kyrgyzstan also has the world's largest natural growth walnut forest. Their independence day is celebrated August 31st. The major ethnic groups are Kyrgyz (65%), Uzbek (14%) and Russian (12.5%). About 75% of the population is Muslim with about 20% Russian Orthodox.Kyrgyzstan has a largely agricultural economy with some mining and manufacturing. Exported crops include cotton, wool, meat and tobacco. Mined and manufactured goods include gold, mercury, uranium, natural gas, textiles and machinery. The climate ranges form subtropical in the southwest valleys to temperate in the northern foothills and polar in the high Tien Shan mountains.

Our New Counter Tops

2008-03-19T13:58:00.000-05:00

Here are pictures of our new counters that were completed finally this past week.

Haven't blogged lately - Making Progress

2008-03-19T12:34:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been a rough few weeks and haven't felt much like blogging. Things have sort of slowed down so I thought I'd update the past few weeks.

Starting the beginning of March Daddy ended up in the hospital because of a fall. Didn't really hurt anything but was there for a few days to recover. Was then transfered to a rehab hospital for some physical therapy. It was a lot of back and forth and accomplishing nothing at home. It just seems like when it rains it pours and everything just seemed to be over whelming. We had our counter tops put in also recently which added to the confusion. We also took Diego (a friend's dog) in for a few days while his mom took a vacation. He was such a good dog we wanted to keep him. He loved being at our house. So everthing at home sort of got put aside...laundry, cleaning, etc. But then it took a week to get our plumbing hooked up again. Hard to do dishes in a bathroom sink.

So it's now time to get things in order...Martha got some good news today from her agency regarding her homestudy. It has been approved and is in the process of being sent to her for certification. Yippee! It's about time. So in just a week or so she will take it downtown to get certified at the State Department. Then it can get sent to the agency for Authentication and approval for a referral. Not really sure how long that will be either. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we had a little one home for Christmas? That would be just way too cool! So progress is being made slowly.

Last week we got together with our Mom's Night Out group. It was just so much fun to see everyone again. Two had received referrals so it was great to see the pictures. There just seems to be so much to accomplish before our trips. But I found out we will probably never be ready. One good thing is that we think we found a few people to watch our sweeties while we go. We have a few people from our vet that are willing to stay at our house for the times we're gone. That would be a load off. I'm sure they will miss us but will be fine as long as they have the love from someone else.

We hope to do a few projects before the summer starts. We want to paint our one bathroom and get that in order. It's such a small one it's not going to take a long time. Should be fun.