The Shania Project

A Bootiful Night

2009-11-02T11:41:00.001-08:00

Halloween 09 was a the best ever! A beautiful night with a full moon, carved pumpkins, lots of kiddies in adorable costumes and a giant crock of chili...yum!

Riley was a Glow Worm for her first Halloween. Dave's Aunt Donna made her this adorable custom. Isn't she cute!

A Bootiful Night

2009-11-02T11:18:00.000-08:00

"Enjoy...It goes by so fast"

2009-09-09T13:05:00.000-07:00

Is without a doubt the most frequently used phrase by acquaintances, friends and family since little Riley was brought into our lives.

It is has already proven to be true. Can you believe it has already been over 59 days since we received the call that forever changed our lives.

Believe it our not our little miss Riley Grace will soon be 2 months old! With another milestone quickly approaching we thought it only appropriate that our little "Rock Star" have her own blog. We are excited to introduce to you...

http://www.RileyGraceBublitz.blogspot.com

Please add the new bookmark* and let her smiles light up your day (:

Pretty in Purple

2009-09-05T21:01:00.000-07:00

"It’s her beauty that captures your attention. It’s her personality that captures your heart."

smile says it all

2009-08-31T16:42:00.000-07:00

What could our little Riley be thinking about?

6lbs 6oz of pure baby loving

2009-08-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

The big weigh-in was today... 6lbs 6oz (congratulations on your perfect guess Kim K.)

Aug 12, 5lbs 2oz - Aug 28, 6lbs 6oz

1lb 4oz in 16 days

1.25 oz per day

18lbs by Christmas

my favorite shirt of all time

2009-08-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

Who needs Superheros when I have My Dad.

our baby is getting chubby

2009-08-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

We are really beginning to notice Riley Grace getting bigger. Her tiny outfits no longer fit and look... well really tiny. She hasn't been to the doctor for two weeks but is going this Friday. We are looking forward to the weigh in.

Who wants to guess on her exact weight? (We always play Price Is Right rules; closest without going over).

July 13 - BIrthday
3lbs 4oz

Aug 3 - Last day in the hospital
4lbs 6oz

Aug 12 - Pediatrician Office visit
5lbs 2oz

Wide Awake

2009-08-24T21:31:00.000-07:00

Frog Feet

2009-08-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

Another fantastic Saturday Daddy Day. Capped with a new outfit; frog feet pjs.

Riley's view of her froggies.

Seriously,who comes up with this stuff? Brilliant!

sleeping in the big crib

2009-08-18T23:04:00.000-07:00

Since she came home Riley has been sleeping in her own room down the hall from ours. Today she moved from her mini crib into the big crib. Sweet dreams little darling.

Sunday Nap Time

2009-08-16T20:26:00.000-07:00

exhausted from all the work

2009-08-14T13:05:00.001-07:00

aren't you glad that it's Friday?

morning photo shoot

2009-08-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

This morning Riley Grace has been fed, bathed, and finished her first photo shoot of the day.

big yawner

2009-08-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

first week home

2009-08-11T22:08:00.001-07:00

We have been home with Riley Grace a full week now. We are not experienced parents quite yet but we have picked up a few things along the way that help the days and nights go smoothly. Here are just a few observations we have made....

Sleeping. We all get good sleep every night. This is one really mellow baby and we know that these things do change and we expect them to change. But for now we are thankful that she is a sleeper. She is out like a light at night and we wake her every three hours to eat. I stay up for the midnight shift and Sheri handles 3:00 and 6:00. It is 10:30 now and Sheri has been asleep for almost an hour. By 3 she will have her normal night's sleep of six hours.

Eating. Riley Grace eats every three hours around the clock. Sheri and Riley are an amazing eating team and they have a great system. Just before midnight Riley will start to stir, I'll make a bottle, change her and feed her, She will be asleep and I will be in bed by 12:35.

Noise is not a big deal.
Riley Grace spent the first three weeks of her life in the NICU where there are alarms sounding, nurses talking and machines running 24/7. This kid sleeps through it all. Our concern that the work we do during the day would disturb her was unfounded. It appears that she is the one causing the disturbance. It can be a real challenge working so close to such cuteness.

This kid loves to look around.
From the very first day Riley Grace has loved to check out her environment. Her big beautiful eyes follow sounds around the room. She loves to stretch her neck and do her best to lift her head and check everything out, especially when she first wakes up. When her eyes lock onto yours it's like being caught in a spotlight.

Two things she loves that I never even knew existed...

This boppy thing (thank you Aunt Jen and Jen's Mom)

and this bath thing (thank you Aunt Janet)

It has been so much fun watching her grow and change over the past four weeks. We are loving every moment with our Riley Grace.

good to be home

2009-08-06T23:14:00.000-07:00

Bath day for Riley Grace today. Since coming home she has been sleeping, eating, and pooping like a champ.

adjusting

2009-08-05T00:33:00.000-07:00

"Meet the new boss, Same as the old boss" - The Who, Won't Get Fooled Again

What was new three weeks ago is now the new normal. We have adjusted to new life with our baby Riley Grace. Now that we are home the only thing new is responsibility for the late feeds. Last night was smooth with only a small bump in an otherwise perfect night. The bump turned out to be a bump in her diaper around 4am.

I just finished the midnight feeding and it was awesome. 40+ ccs in 15 minutes and she never once opened her eyes. Sheri is on for the 3 and 6. Right now the house is quiet and both baby and mom are soundly asleep.

Our first pediatrician office visit today was a blast. Just introductions mostly and a little medical history (22 days worth - a short story). Dr Sudah is a hoot. I think we are really going to like her. Our peanut weighed in at 4lb 6oz - Wow!

Tomorrow we have more of the same planned; Eating, sleeping and gaining weight for Riley Grace.

back to normal

2009-08-04T11:53:00.001-07:00

Today is just another day in the office. Well, sort of.

leaving the nicu

2009-08-03T23:56:00.001-07:00

After 21 days Riley Grace left the NICU at Chandler Regional Hospital today. It will be difficult to properly recognize everyone in the NICU that had a significant impact on us these past two weeks, but here goes.

Thank you to everyone that prayed for Riley Grace. God answered your prayers and sent a host of angels to protect her. He also sent a whole bunch of caring, loving, people. His people.

Thank you Dr. Zozobrado our advocate and fellow adoptive dad. We will remember forever what you said to us the night of her birth and everything that you did for her.

Thank you Dr. Stola our dear friend and fellow adoptive mom. We will never forget the tears that we cried together. You are amazing.

Thank you Joan, Deb, Laura and Tracy our nurse practitioners. How you do all you do is still a mystery to us.

Thank you to all of Riley's nurses. Thank you Sepna for teaching Riley Grace (and her parents) how to be feisty. You were there in a big way on Cry Thursday and Emotional Breakdown Friday. Thanks to Dawn for being so kind and understanding. Thank you Erin for sharing so many milestones that I can't remember them all. You always seemed to be there when a tube or hose was removed. Thank you Cennille for all the bows. Thank you Allie, even though you were never Riley's nurse. How was it that you were still always there for us? Thank you Vicki, Pat, Sandi, Karen, Theresa, Kathy, Jean, Kelly, Ashley and Holly.

Now get back to work.

coming home in a pretty dress

2009-08-03T16:55:00.000-07:00

going home

2009-08-02T23:51:00.001-07:00

"we have run out of excuses to keep Riley Grace here." - Dr. Zozobrand, Medical Director, NICU Chandler Regional Hospital

Riley Grace comes home with us on Monday. What is it about this kid and Mondays?

Monday July 13, born at 4:57pm

Monday July 27, becomes our daughter

Monday Aug 3, Comes home to her new home

We love you with everything we have Riley Grace. Love, your Daddy and Mommy

getting ready

2009-08-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

We praise God and thank him for great news. Riley Grace is getting ready to go home. It is looking like early this week. Woo-hoo!

life in the nicu

2009-08-01T00:37:00.000-07:00

We have spent the last 19 days in the Chandler Regional Hospital NICU. In that time we have grown very close with people that are there: The patients, nurses, doctors and staff. We have celebrated victories together and encouraged one another through the challenges. Our family in the NICU has shared every one of the milestones in Riley Grace's life.

One of the babies that has been in room #2 with Riley Grace developed complications over the past few days. He received a blood transfusion yesterday and was transported by helicopter to Banner Desert today. Despite the heroic efforts to save him, he died on the way.

Tonight I am writing this because I hope that Riley Grace will one day read this story and understand what this day was like.

Every night since you were born I hold you and thank God for his amazing gift. This week we spent some special quiet late nights together and we prayed for each of the babies that are in the NICU. Tonight we thanked God for one baby boy in particular.

I know that God loves you Riley Grace because he sent his own son to die for you (John 3:16). No matter what happens God makes it all work for good for everyone that loves him (Romans 8:28) and there is nothing that can separate you from his love (Romans 8:37-38).

blessed

2009-07-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

We thank God for our 3lb. 14.4oz blessing.

adoption finalized today

2009-07-30T00:17:00.000-07:00

Not ours, but our new friends Peter and Anita.

We met Dr. Anita Stola two weeks ago. She is a neonatologist working in the NICU at Chandler Regional. She and husband Peter adopted a darling little girl back in January. This morning I was in the courtroom when the judge made the following ruling "from now forward this child shall be known as Alicia Stola, daughter of Peter and Anita Stola." It was a thrill to be there.

emails

2009-07-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

big news from the hospital

2009-07-29T11:24:00.000-07:00

Riley Grace is wearing her new outfit today and looking cute as poop!

baby steps

2009-07-28T21:21:00.000-07:00

We took a few more baby steps forward today. Each step is closer to the hospital exit door that leads to the road that takes our daughter Riley Grace home.

The IV is gone. Our baby girl's eating progress has been remarkable and she is now off all machines. Thank you for your prayers. We thank God that this small burden has been lifted. Can you imagine how great it feels to lift our baby and kiss her beautiful head without being concerned about dislodging the IV?

Chowing down. Sheri and Riley Grace make a fantastic team. They just focus and get it done. We hit her goal feeding amount of 32cc tonight. This is her full feed and what she will need to consistently eat to gain weight. This next 24 hours will be an important gauge on her ability to do this.

Gaining weight. Today's weight 3lbs 13.3oz

Thanking God for his grace and love each step of the way.

the greatest gift ever

2009-07-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

We saw Riley Grace's birth mom Alyss this afternoon. She had a gift for Sheri and I; buttons that said Proud Dad and Proud Mom. She was on her way to meet with the agency to sign final papers. Alyss is an exceptional young lady and we are so fortunate to have her in our life.

We love you Alyss.

getting rid of the iv machine

2009-07-27T21:53:00.001-07:00

Meet the enemy. This is the foul machine that plugs into Riley Grace's adorable little head. This is the last of several machines that we have gotten to know over the past two weeks. Of all the machines this is the one I will be most excited to see go away. Riley's feedings are going really well. Mom and baby make a strong team. Any day now she will be eating enough to get rid of the IV forever.

health update

2009-07-26T22:16:00.000-07:00

Riley Grace is doing great. She is a feisty little kid and that goes a long way when you are trying to get out of the NICU.

Breathing... She has been breathing on her own for a full week now. She is able to keep her O2 saturation up on her own. Chest x-rays show healthy little lungs.

Heart... No sign of a murmur for days. All clinical evidence (strong respiration, good heartbeat, clear echo-gram) suggest that she has a strong, healthy little heart.

IV... Site has been moved back onto the top of her head. She is running out of good veins to tap into. Friday we worked for an hour and a half to get a new one started. After six stickings they were able to get one going. The nurses are so patient and loving with our little girl. I think that they dislike the IVs even more than Riley. Once she can take 20-25cc by bottle she will no longer need the extra help and it will be bye-bye to the IV. This will be a day to celebrate and for us. It will feel very much like cutting the umbilical cord only for good this time.

We have been praying that her current IV site will not deteriorate before that time and so far it has not. We believe that God heals with both medicine and miracles and we are praying for both with this IV. Most have lasted 12-20 hours and this one has been going 48.

Food... this is the big issue right now. We are working to ramp up her food intake on an aggressive schedule. This, along with good rest, are the key steps to having our baby home with us.

Prayer... Thank you to everyone that has been praying for Riley Grace. Here are some specific things we are praying for:

Pray for good feedings and good rest. She will really need to be an eating champ in the next few days
Pray for poop. Good digestion is essential and gut infections are common at this stage.
Pray for the IV site. We want it to last as long as we need it.
Pray for the nurses and doctors that are treating her. We pray that God would fill them with wisdom and guide their decision making.
Pray that her parents give glory to God. The nurses and doctors talk about the parents that have been camped out for two weeks at her bedside. We want them to know the God that knew her before she was born and sustains her today.

God is great and mighty and in charge. His grace is sufficient.

our weekend with riley grace

2009-07-26T22:06:00.000-07:00

What an amazing family weekend! We consider it a blessing that we have been able to spend so much tome together as a family the past two weeks. This weekend with Riley Grace was special because we realize that that it is just the three of us with no other commitments or responsibilities. There was no TV, radio, computers, no distractions. Not every weekend will be like this and we thank God for the opportunity to enjoy each other and our little girl.

a full day

2009-07-24T23:28:00.000-07:00

Good morning little miss Riley Grace. Morning check-up and all systems are go.

Our peanut spent the morning sleeping in mom's arms. Plus good solid feedings every three hours.

and did a little hanging out in her condo.

I feft the office early to get in some solid daddy time. I love my Riley Grace. I love to kiss her baby face.

Later in the afternoon her new IV spot began to deteriorate. We spent an hour and a half getting a new one started in her arm. She did get a nice shampoo afterward though and she loves that.

Friday was a great day.

New IV spot

2009-07-23T22:47:00.000-07:00

Riley Grace got a new IV location today... on the top of her pretty little head. No worries though, she is just as fiesty and stinkin cute as always.

After taking a day off she is back to feeding today. Eat and rest little peanut.

The Best Part of The Day

2009-07-22T21:58:00.000-07:00

is watching RIley Grace wakeup

Big Day WIth Lots of Good News

2009-07-21T23:55:00.001-07:00

Today was a big day...

Medical news is all good: All signs are that the duct in her little heart has closed, results of the brain scan are normal. Riley Grace is resting well and eating and gaining weight. We cheered for her first poop today. Subsequent poops were met with some enthusiasm.

Feedings are going like clockwork around the clock every three hours. She started out eating 4cc's per meal and tonight she ate 8cc's. The plan is to do an additional 1cc every six hours, which is 4cc's more per day. So far she is eating like a champ. Riley's goal is 30cc's per feeding. Eat like the wind little one. Mommy and daddy are cheering you on!

Riley Grace has moved! Every seven days the babies get new condos. This sweet little pad is stylishly decorated in pinks and browns just for her.

Today was spa day! Bath, shampoo, hairdo and a brand new outfit thanks to Grandma Carol

Lots of new blankets and clothes and little girlie things.

Goodnight little princess. We love you.

Riley Grace Loves Her Auntie Erin

2009-07-21T23:25:00.000-07:00

Erin is a nurse in the NICU. She and her fellow nurses have made our visit to the NICU a joy. They have an amazing capacity to do a demanding job and make it look easy. She has looked after every one of Riley's needs and does it with a big smile.

Erin has been assigned to Riley several days now and we have shared some big milestones together. She will be off for the next six days and Sheri, Riley and I will really miss her.

See you soon Auntie Erin.

stay focused

2009-07-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

I am at home trying to get some work done. As you might imagine I am a little distracted by what is going on in Room Two of the NICU, but I know that I need to stay focused and get done what needs to get done so I can race back to see them. Then I get this...

oh man! Stay focused daddy.

chowing down

2009-07-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

Riley is now eating! She chows down 5cc's every three hours. It takes her less than 5 minutes. Today's schedule is heart scan in the morning, brain scan in the afternoon, eating and getting good sleep in between to grow and heal.

We thank God another milestone in the healing process. Sitting right next to her in Room Two you get a sense that he is doing something amazing in her little life.

children are a blessing

2009-07-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

The bible clearly teaches that children are a blessing from God. The Lord has created them to bring joy, fulfillment, and love to their parents and those around them. This has never been more apparent than in the NICU Room Two at Chandler regional Hospital. Riley Grace has absolutely filled that room with an abundance of joy and love. Thank you sweet baby for an amazing six days.

amazing riley grace update

2009-07-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

Praise God because he heard me cry out to him. (Psalm 28:6) He protects me and gives me strength and because of Him I stay up late and type emails describing my wonderful God (7).

Today we saw amazing results in the medical condition of our little girl. She is off oxygen and breathing on her own and able to keep her saturation levels up. There is clinical evidence that the duct in her heart has closed. She has gained weight. Tonight she was alert and playful and curious. She is a remarkable gift from God and we thank Him with all that have for the baby and for the pain, because He is the designer of both. Thank you God!

saturday is daddy day

2009-07-18T21:04:00.000-07:00

Mom takes care of Riley Sunday until Friday, but Saturday is daddy day.

Riley and I spent the first of a lifetime of Saturdays together doing our favorite things. We rocked together in the chair, read books and changed diapers (my first ever).

Your daddy loves you to the moon and back little girl.

cruise control

2009-07-18T01:37:00.000-07:00

Today was the best day in our little Riley Grace's life. In morning rounds Dr. Z said that today he hopes it is like she is on cruise control, and she was. Restricted visitors and minimal testing, poking and probing let our girl store up some energy. C-pap should be coming off soon!

Thanks everybody for your prayers!

please pray for my daughter

2009-07-16T23:36:00.000-07:00

Early Morning
Late Night

Our amazing little girl Riley Grace continues her fight to heal a tiny heart and lungs. Early this morning she went back on oxygen after a rough night of rapid little breaths. Her struggle to suck in air has exhausted her. Oxygen helped but not enough so by 10am Riley was hooked up to a c-pap machine, which provides positive pressure airflow through her amazingly cute little nose. Morning consult with the docs revealed a few new items of concern. Number one besides the lungs is her heart. There is a murmur being caused by an open duct in her heart which allows extra blood to flow into her lungs. We have started her on medication to help speed the closing of that duct. She is a tough little peanut and we just know that she is going to be feeling much better very soon.

Thank you for your prayers. Thank you to our small group that met tonight to pray for us. We are humbled and blessed by you guys - thank you. Thank you to the St. Charles Church in Boardman, Ohio for your prayers.

We know that God does hear our prayer and ask you to consider praying for the following:

• That God would heal the broken body of little Riley Grace especially her heart and lungs.
• That God would give guidance and wisdom to the amazing nurses, doctors, technicians, and others that will work on our little girl tomorrow.
• That God would be glorified in the work of his servant Betsy
• That God will equip us to be the best possible parents we can be for Riley Grace

Thank you

a very special day

2009-07-16T22:36:00.000-07:00

Sheri held her baby girl today. Little baby Riley Grace finally got what she has been crying for since she was born: the warm embrace of her mommy. No amount of sedative could be as powerful in calming both child and mother.

a big day for little riley grace

2009-07-15T22:39:00.000-07:00

Today got off to a great start. Our little Riley Grace Peanut (credit Dr. Z on that) showed remarkable improvement overnight and they continued to reduce her oxygen boost. By 7:30 this morning she was breathing on her own. Praise God for this unexpected great news. This afternoon her breathing tube came out and they unplugged the respirator. Our little girl is breathing on her own. We thank God for the amazing events of the day and for the loving, dedicated, talented professionals that are taking care of our little girl.

the girl is a fighter

2009-07-14T22:53:00.000-07:00

Our precious little Riley Grace is the toughest kid I have ever seen. Sleep tight little girl, Mommy and Daddy love you very much.

our baby girl

2009-07-14T01:39:00.001-07:00

Riley Grace Bublitz
Born July 13, 2009
3lbs. 4oz.

Pictures of an Unborn Child

2009-07-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

This morning we were up early and off to a doctor's office where we saw our baby's face for the first time. Never in my life has Psalm 139 had more meaning.

(v13-14) For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

We love you little girl.

12 Years ago today

2009-07-03T22:04:00.000-07:00

12 years ago today I married my best friend, my one true love. It was a non-traditional ceremony along side the Snake River in Jackson Hole, Wyoming... July 4, 1997.

David, with all my heart; I take you to be my husband. I promise to be your best friend, to be faithful, honest and kind. To respect you, to be patient with you, to work together with you o achieve those things that are important to us, to accept you unconditionally and to LOVE you forever.

So much has changed and oh how we have grown...in our Love, our Wisdom, our Faith. But it's comforting to know that some things never change...Hot dogs and fireworks BABY!!!

Happy Anniversary to the LOVE of my life.

32 Weeks...

2009-06-30T17:48:00.000-07:00

Waiting is one of the greatest parts of the process...right?

As we wait for our precious little girl to come into our lives I have been WORKING on embracing the wait. In any situation that requires the "wait" for me is one of the most difficult times.

We have been studing Romans in our bible study recently and it has helped me to understand the word HOPE in a whole new light. The bible teaches us that there is a precise purpose in those long hours, days or even YEARS of waiting. It teaches us to find JOY in our suffering: because we know that suffering produces PERSEVERANCE; perseverance builds CHARACTER; and character, HOPE. And HOPE does not disappoint.

For Dave and I our FOCUS and FAITH are in God because HIS plan is flawless and his TIMING perfect! It is also comforting to know that he is with us every step of the way. We are excited and know His answer is on its way!

A first

2009-06-25T22:00:00.000-07:00

Today we heard evidence of one of Gods precious miracles. The beating heart of a 30 week old baby. It truly was one of the most amazing thing we have ever experienced.

We feel incredibly blessed to be on this journey together.

WOW!!!

2009-06-16T19:30:00.001-07:00

Tonight Dave and I received some wonderful news via these adorable little hand made cards by our expectant mom. A picture is worth a thousand words.

Dave and I are extremely excited...a little in shock and in awe of our blessings!

Festival Anyone?

2009-06-09T19:13:00.000-07:00

First things first...we were encouraged to today to hear that we will have another opportunity to meet with the expectant mom next week! I can't help but see how with each step of our journey we are being prepared for the next.

We have been busy this week preparing for the "BIG" Festival in Pine, AZ this weekend. It should be a real hoot. Quilt show, Blues Festival and an Art Festival all in one and... we are hoping for some cooler weather! So if you are hanker for something fun to do this weekend C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION will be in Pine selling our goods!

Gods...timing is perfect!

Another amazing week

2009-06-03T22:02:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had a wonderful meeting/dinner with our new friends. We just keep saying what an amazing journey this is. To have the opportunity to meet such pleasant people and to share intimate details of our life together. To be honest, open and vulnerable.

A week ago we were complete strangers and tonight we are sharing pizza and our hearts. I can't stop thinking about what a blessing it is to have this open and direct communication.

No matter what the outcome, Dave and I agree that this young girl has made a lasting impression on us and we hope that we have done the same.

PS She is due September 1

Amazing Journey

2009-05-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was absolutely, with out question - one of the most amazing experiences of your lives. We were vulnerable. We were nervous. We were emotional and hope that God was glorified in all of our actions.

The expectant mom was adorable, spunky, outgoing and kind. She would like to meet with us again next week...We just can't wait!

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. We felt your Love and Support the entire time.

What now? Now we jump in full-bore, buckle in our seats and hold on...knowing full well that God is in complete control.

Going to meet our daughter

2009-05-27T14:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon I went to see the new Terminator movie with my good friend Brian. Today so far has been like most Wednesdays; morning bible study (James 1) and sending ads with weekend deadlines and talking on the phone with friends. In a few hours we are going to meet an expectant mom and talk about adopting her baby. How are we feeling? A little nervous quite frankly. Our hope is that we can be as transparent as possible with her. Will she see how much we care for her and her child? We sure hope so. Thanks to everyone who has been praying for this meeting, for the mom and for the baby. This has been an amazing day. Regardless of the outcome we thank God for it.

What I did on my long weekend

2009-05-25T21:02:00.000-07:00

Yep it was a crafter's paradise here at the Bublitz home over the weekend.

To prepare for our meeting this week we were asked to put together a little photo album of our life. So off I went to the Michael's store to get some ideas. The next thing I knew...I was smack dab in the middle of scrapbook heaven or *&%# (depending on whether or not you are a scrapbooker or not)

I stumbled into a scrapbooking store and knew I was in trouble - Cropping...what the heck is cropping? I paid the Fee just to find out. 4 hours later I was heading home with my very own custom design photo album...Kind of...well the book was in pieces and I spent the next 48 building page by page...then the pictures.

Have you every tried putting the last 12 years of your life in a tiny little photo album? It was challenging tough but so much fun!

Big News

2009-05-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

This morning we received big news that our dossier was received and logged in on 4/7/09.

But wait there's more. We also received a call from Christian Family Care Agency. There is an expecting mom that wants to meet with us next week.

God is good.

Happy BirthMOTHERS Day

2009-05-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

I found this poem that a Birth Mother wrote about her adoption experience; What a great example of Gods Grace. To my MOM and all you MOM's out there....

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!!

As I meditate on what this day means to me, birthMOTHERS Day; there are so many things I would like to share, but it's hard to find the right words to say.

Sometimes I run or hide from these feelings because they are so strong;">yet inside my heart emotions are constantly singing as a bird's soothing song.

I must tell of this journey into birth motherhood; about the sadness, the sweetness, the bad and the good.

I must trust that my voice will carry along; to another birthmother in need of this song.

I could speak of the heart wrenching time during early pregnancy; when I could barely see straight from the pain and agony.

I was in definite denial; but I was being prepared for a life-changing trial. I felt so confused and angry; that I had allowed this circumstance to happen to me.

There was no way to know at that point in time; how God would turn this into something divine. This decision making process was not an easy one; yet hope shined on even throughout this rainy time as certain as the soft warm sun.

God was using me as a way to carry a child into the world and bring forth life;but if I chose to parent him it would be one filled with anger and strife.

I never once thought that I could raise this child because I, myself was not equipped to; so now it was up to me -what would I do??

I really had to search myself and find support,although my world was spinning; I had to realize that another precious life was just beginning. Maybe for some the choice to place a baby is filled with regret; yet I knew that he deserved way more than if he stayed with me what he would get.

To you I say, "The details of where my life was headed at that time might not be the issue; yet I trusted that another family could love you and offer you that which I could not give you.

My baby, birth child, you deserved the family, love, devotion, time, patience, energy, consistency, opportunity; trustworthiness, connection and stability that -at that time- with me were not a possibility.

Some have asked me if I ever regret this choice;and I will always continue to use my voice. The answer is no I most definitely do not; though it is normal to wonder at times where would we be if my choice was naught.

I cannot burden my heart with these types of worry, doubt and grief; I need to make room inside of me for the love I have for this child, the joy and the relief.

I feel such peace within my heart; knowing we will never truly be apart.

Trusting in God's plan and in the universe to provide; my baby's family is raising him with love, honesty and pride.

I'm blessed to know that he is okay; and I would like to share this experience that I have been through with others today.

In honor of Mothers no matter what your situation,

I would like to say;that I wish you a truly blessed, fulfilling, and peaceful BirthMothers Day!

Busy life...Happy wife

2009-04-25T01:25:00.000-07:00

Yes it is 1:27am But it's OK. After a wonderful dinner with friends tonight I imbibed in a Venti Latte after dinner - I am not a coffee drinker...that explains it...right?

Last week we attended the sweetest wedding ever. Our "little Missy" (my cousin, great friend and co-worker) married her sweetheart. It was a small, but perfect little wedding she seriously planned in about 4 weeks. Everything was perfect. Aren't they a cute couple?

We received a call from our domestic SW on Friday as we were heading to the wedding. It always makes my heart skip a beat and gives my stomach butterflies to see her number show up on my phone. She was calling for our monthly update.

GOOD NEWS all around. Birth moms are coming in...most have not made a final decision to parent or adopt but there are babies due to be born in June, July, August and September. Only God knows if one of those precious miracles will be one chosen for us but it makes my heart sing just thinking about the possibilities!

Dave sister has arrived and we are happy to have her here in AZ. She has been helping with take my jewelry biz to the next level. We are having a lot of fun!

Uh Oh...I think the caffeine is finally wearing off.

How I would define a Birthmom

2009-03-31T21:05:00.000-07:00

A Birthmom is a young teen or an adult woman that finds herself pregnant when it was not planned and having to soon face one of the hardest decisions she will ever have to make in her life...keep your baby, or place it for adoption.

Birthmothers are not all the same. They come from all walks of life; different ages, ethnicity's, religious backgrounds and financial status's. Some have families that love them, some that don't and some that just don't exist at all. They are intelligent, they are troubled. They are strong and independent, they are lost and frightened. They are angry and elated, confused and informed. There is no simple box or specific category for which to place these women. Each approaching the crossroads of adoption from a different path, each creating a new path with each defining decision they make.

For these girls the decision to abort, parent or make an adoption plan for their child will forever change the path of their lives as well as their child's.

I posted this back in November - but I wanted to post it again. Whether the path of domestic or internationally adoption is chosen, the one common denominator is the birth mother.

To all birth mothers across the US and around the world; thank you for making one of the hardest decisions in your life. Thank you for choosing life. Thank you for carrying a child for nine months, going through the pain of labor, holding the child in your arms and loving the child so much that you did the most unselfish thing you could do. You game this child a chance to live, you gave this child a mommy and daddy, you gave this child hope.

The video below is a song by Mark Schultz who was given up for adoption. It is his tribute to his birth mother and birth mothers around the world.

Thank you for everything

DTC on Friday

2009-03-25T17:51:00.000-07:00

Yep that is right! DTC (Date to China) after let's see...a little over eight months. We have completed all the necessary paperwork to proceed with our journey to China for a little one!

3lbs of paperwork was shipped off on Monday (the big list down the right side of our blog) Our agency will overnight to China on Friday.

The next step for China is a LID (Log in Date). This date determines the order for which families will receive a referral. To give you an idea, In April, China will be referring families that have a LID of 03/07/06 (and hopefully a couple more days). The time frame for a referral is now 36-38 months.

Dave and I are as excited today, as we were a little over eight months ago...

We are celebrating this weekend by going to the beach - Yippeee!!!

Dates to Celebrate

2009-03-17T21:34:00.000-07:00

Looking for help from our China adoption friends here. What are your favorite adoption dates (like date to china, log-in date, gotcha day) and in what special way have you celebrated them?

What about "Open" adoption?

2009-03-11T22:39:00.000-07:00

I have been focusing on making good use of my time while we wait for our little Shania. I have been diving back into my jewelry making (more to come soon...no really!) but more importantly we have been reading and educating ourselves on open adoption, birthmothers and the adoptive child.

As we learn and grow we thought that it would be good to share. Not unlike Dave and I, most of you have never experienced adoption much less...an open adoption. And not unlike Dave and I, you may have fears, questions and misconceptions about these very subjects. Hopefully by sharing what we learned - You can begin to see why Dave and I have opened our hearts to open adoption.

Today most domestic adoptions are open. An open adoption involves a face-to-face meeting between the birth and prospective adoptive parents prior to placement; an exchange of identifying information; and a commitment on both sides to continue the relationship. The degree of openness in a open adoption varies greatly from family to family. Typically there is a once or twice a year visit with some other form of communication such as email or phone calls in between.

In an open adoption, the birth parents' legal rights of guardianship are terminated, and the adoptive parents become the legal parents.

The result is an adoption experience that is more positive and healthier for all parties. There is openness, honesty and communication - all important keys to any great relationship but most importantly, a healthy, secure child.

Dave and I are sincerely looking forward to the day when we can begin a relationship with our birthmother.

Back to the Consulate - hopefully for the last time

2009-03-05T21:27:00.000-08:00

Its a long story so I will not bore you with the details. Something to do with a new Secretary of State and a signature but anyways...Our last 2 documents are headed back to the Secretary of State for final Authentication. We will then have all our paperwork ready to go to China!

No word on the Domestic front. Dave and I are relishing each and every moment of "alone" time we have together. We know and hope that once day soon that will ALL CHANGE.

email at 5:30am "CONGRATULATIONS you have been accepted"

2009-02-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

Our social worker (for Arizona adoption) presented us to the entire Christian Family Care Agency staff yesterday. She sent an email late last night letting us know that we are in their match book as of today!

The entire process has really been a breeze. CFCA has been a joy to work with. Our biggest challenge was to write- THE LETTER - the introductory letter to birth parents. This is what our birth parent (or parents) will eventually read - then they'll meet us - then they'll pick us and we will be parents.

I will spare you most of the details but here's how it starts...

Dear Birth Parent(s),

This is a BIG opportunity. It is A BLESSING TO US that you are reading this letter. We want to tell you a little bit about ourselves, our family and life together, but first want you to know something. We want you to know that regardless of the decision you make we love you and want nothing but the best for you and your child. We understand that you may be going through a difficult time right now. We want you to know that GOD CREATED YOU. HE KNOWS EVERY BIT ABOUT YOU AND HE LOVES YOU. HE IS ALWAYS THERE WITH YOU and HE WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU. We hope that these words comfort and encourage you and that you find that they are true no matter what situation you find yourself in.

Then there are lots of pictures of us, then the close...

Thank you for making one of the hardest decisions in your life. We know that adoption would not be possible if not for you; the birth parents. Thank you for loving your child so much that you did the most unselfish thing you could do. Thank You for giving your child a chance to live! They will always know and understand that your selfless decision is evidence of your love for them. We look forward to the opportunity to meet and build a relationship with you.

With Love Dave and Sheri

We are very excited now that our letter is live!

Valentine Surprise!

2009-02-17T06:24:00.001-08:00

After a wonderful breakfast with my Shmoopie on Saturday we returned home only to find our mailbox full of good news. First we received 10 of our documents back from the Chinese Consulate, but even better news was a little form from Homeland Security saying that we are approved! Yep the I-797C form was waiting in our mailbox on Valentines Day...can't think of a better gift!

So yesterday we took it to get notorized. Today, I will take both our HS and our I-797C to the State for certification. These are the last 2 documents that need to be notorized, certified or authenticated! Wait I think I am going to say that again...These are the last 2 documents that need to be notorized, certified or authenticated!!! Yipee

Dave and I made copies of everything for our Dossier on Sunday. Sooooo once these 2 papers are received back from the Chinese Consulate (usually taking about 2 weeks) We can send our Dossier off to China!

The paper journey has almost ended - what am I going to do with all my free time you ask...

More to come tomorrow.

God is good

2009-02-03T13:26:00.001-08:00

Dinner tonight at Pro's Ranch Market and class at CFCA. Ranch Market is in a neighborhood that most of our friends don't go, class will be 2 1/2 hours with total strangers. To us tonight is as exciting as Christmas morning when we were kids. We know that God is in control and He has us just where he wants us. Thank you God.

Happy Birthday Mom!

2009-02-03T05:35:00.000-08:00

Today is my MOM's Birthday...she is 71 young!

Isn't she beautiful - This is my parents wedding day picture. It was the day our family started over 46 years ago. As I begin to think about parenting - I look back at my childhood as my greatest reference. What scarifies and selfless acts my parents made so that my brother and I could have everything we ever wanted and more.

I often wonder - what traits we receive from our parents are genetic vs inherent. I believe that I have received an abundance of wonderful gifts from my mom...some I have not perfected quit yet.

My mom is so creative.
My mom is kind and so caring towards others.
My mom is thoughtful and will do anything for anyone.

I feel truly joyful and wonderfully blessed to have her as my mom.

Love you Mommy!
Update on China. We received in the mail our notorized copies of our HS as well as the certification form from the courts. I express mailed both to the USCIS(Homeland Security Office) today. A couple more steps until we are DTC!

One down...One to go!

2009-01-29T21:31:00.000-08:00

Tuesday we attended the first of 2 classes at our agency in town(CFCA). The class was exceeded my expectations. It was intimate...more of a group study -then a class. There were only 2 other couples besides us and the instructor.

We learned lots about adoptees, birth parents and adoptive parents. We also had the pleasure of meeting a family in our class that received an infant that is now only 18 days old. Things happened so quickly - they did not complete all the classes before the baby was born! It is incredible to hear stories like these. We learned a great deal about the process - but I could have sat and spoke with her (drilled the new mom) all night long!

Our new SW is great as well - I sent her a rough draft of our birth parent letter about 2pm that same day. When I saw her before class she had already read, proofed and made suggestions! WOW!!! I love that. We actually met with her after our class and she shared that she loved our letter and that she is excited to present us in February.

So what happens next? We have one more class...next Tuesday (Happy BDay MOM)then we have to meet with our SW 2 more times. We scheduled both appts for Feb. 13 AND Feb 16. She will then present us to the entire staff of 40 birth counselors and SW's on February 17 - at this time or job is done.

Next...

We wait...we pray...we wait...we pray

Update on China. We received in the mail our notorized copies of our HS as well as the certification form from the courts. I express mailed both to the USCIS(Homeland Security Office) today. A couple more steps until we are DTC!

We are approved!

2009-01-23T14:00:00.000-08:00

It is official everyone involved in our adoption paperwork so far agrees - we are FIT to adopt! Yipee!!! We received word today from our China SW that we have received certification from the Arizona courts.

We were told that it could take 60-90days. It only took a couple of weeks. So all that work is paying off. What this means we are officially one step closer to completing our Dossier to China but it also means we are now certified to adopt a Child in the State of Arizona.

Yippee!! Yahoo!!!!

He is in control

2009-01-18T06:19:00.000-08:00

Friday was a great day to remind me that God is in control. We met with our new social worker for our domestic adoption. EVERYTHING that happened and EVERYTHING she said was the opposite of what I had prepared my heart for. Oh wait though...it was all GOOD.

First off...(not that I expected different) but she was wonderful, warm, kind and friendly. Dave and I both felt comfortable with her right away (which will be so important with this adoption). Here name is Carole and she has been with CFCA for 9 years and you can tell that she loves what she does. She has the passion and fire that you just can't fake after nine years.

This is a Christian agency and we have been told that they do not mess around. Right off the back she asked if we where Christians and then proceeded to ask us what we believe, how we got this point and how we would minister to someone else or our child. WOW! Tough emotional stuff right...

Then she proceeded to tell us what we needed to do and set our expectations. She was very pleased to hear that our HS is complete and just awaiting approval from the courts. We were told by our AWAA SW that this could take 90 Days - she is saying that they are only taking a couple of weeks! Yeah...We would love to get this ASAP because it is the big missing link for our Dossier and for USCIS. Plus, we of coarse need it to adopt domestically.

This is our list for our Domestic journey:

2 Classess from the CFCA (January 27 and Feb 3)
Fill out and sign about 10 documents
Write our letter to the Birth Mother

Pretty short huh? Yep! We are needless to say very excited. A couple times I looked over at Dave during our meeting with a look of panic on my face...he would say why the look? The look is for the first time since mid June when we made the decision to adopt that it really felt like reality. REAL...BABY...OH MY GODDNESS! I get chills just thinking about, even now I feel like I am writing about someone else...I have to remind myself that this is our story...our wonderful journey and GOD is WONDERFUL!

So now for the process. We will be presented to the CFCA staff on Tuesday. This means the staff of over 40 SW and Birth counselors will meet us on paper. (Hope we made a good impression). Once we fill out our required paperwork and write our Birth mother letter we will be placed in their book. This is not a normal book because the birth mother or parents do not choose from the book. Instead the SW's around the state choose 3 letters that match closets to the mothers criteria and present her with those... she would then choose between those 3, of coarse if she does not feel a connection, 3 more would be chosen.

Once our letter is chosen, an initial meeting with us and the Birth mother will be scheduled. The birth mother calls all the shots on the entire birth plan, we would call all the shots once the baby is picked up from the hospital...usually within 24 hours of birth...See why the panic!

Our SW told us that none of her recent families have waited longer than a year and it is usually much shorter...see why the panic!

So unlike the China adoption process thus far, where I had the illusion of control (because of all the paperwork and processes). After we check off the 3 things on our to do list this illusion of control will be gone. God will be totally in control and I can not begin to express how exciting and scary it is! I told Dave on Friday that we need to start training for an emotional Mt Everest!

Are you ready?

This is Mia

2009-01-09T05:49:00.000-08:00

A good friend of mine just received word over the holiday that she was going to be an aunt to this little Korean beauty. How cute is she.

Congratulations to Carrie and Matt - Mommy and Daddy to Mia. Praying that she gets to come home to her forever family very, very soon!

We have been approved!

2009-01-09T05:03:00.000-08:00

This week we received all sorts of good news on the adoption front! Our SW from AWAA approved our HS. She was the last person needed to sign off on it. She will be filing with the Maricopa County Juvenile Courts this week. This is great news. We are being told that the courts can take 60 days to review and approve...sigh. Praying for sooner.

After filling out 3 more documents, a reference letter from SW number 2 "We have been approved". AWAA has officially approved us for a concurrent domestic adoption.

Friday, January 16th is our next BIG day. We will meet with our new social worker. I have been making a list of questions to ask as I think of them...oh so many! Then Dave and all will proceed to the Secretary of States office for some document authenticating. You know that list down on the right hand side of our blog? Soon a lot of the black will be gray! Yeah

2009 continues to be a great year!

A year in review

2008-12-26T05:37:00.000-08:00

Originally Posted 070808: When we started this process we thought that the decision to adopt was the difficult part. We just made one of the biggest decisions of our life now let's just go get out and get one, right? There is just a big list somewhere of kids that are waiting for a home, right?

The great world of adoption is a complicated and sometimes very confusing culture that has many options. Each comes with it's own set of issues, demands, and challenges. But in God's perfect plan and in His timing, the end result is loving parents welcoming a beautiful child into their world to take care of forever.

Today: We look back over the last 5 months, all that we have completed and take a deep, deep breath. We have now completed every requirement pertaining to our Home Study, our agency has even sent us our Hague approval letter, we are now waiting for our social worker to return from vacation to sign off. It will then be filed with the juvenile courts here in AZ.

Our fingerprints have been taken by Homeland Security and the process for USCIS clearance has begun. We are being told that both will take 60-90days respectively. So let the wait begin.

Once these last forms are received we will be able to compile our dossier and send it off to China!

All that once seemed so overwhelming, is now completed. Piles of paperwork and daunting time frames are now just distant memories. Just another great reminder of how time in our lives flows by so quickly.

We have yet to write via our blog, but we have also decided to proceed with a concurrent adoption here in the states...yes you read it right...number 2 (or hopefully number 1). We have been contacted by our local agency and have an appointment set for Jan. 16. We are super excited!!!

This process will be so much easier since our Home Study is already completed. We will have to attend two classes, write a letter to the birth mother and basically just wait (:

We will be eligible late February or early March. A friend of mine said..."Just think--your baby could already be in his/her birth moms tummy right now!" WOW that is crazy to think about.

Please pray for us. All the birth mothers that will be posed with the most difficult decision in their lives and all the orphans or soon to be orphans in this world.

2009 will be a great year!

Happy Birthday Baby Jesus!

2008-12-23T05:49:00.000-08:00

The Birth of Jesus 2 - The best home videos are here

And the FINAL winners are...Melissa and Lorraine

2008-12-22T04:48:00.000-08:00

Congratulations girls!!!

Melissa at http://justinmerrill.blogspot.com
Lorriane at http://coming4claire.blogspot.com

A special thank you to all of you that participated - we do appreciate all your support.

Merry Christmas!!!

Best Christmas Song Ever

2008-12-17T23:58:00.000-08:00

My favorite Christmas song ever is O Holy Night. It was composed in 1847 from the poem Minuit, Chrétiens by Frenchman Placide Cappeau. It's message is just as clear now as it was then. The next time you hear it stop and consider the words that he wrote. They are full of the hope and joy and love and freedom that is the Christmas story.

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
'Til He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels' voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here come the wise men from Orient land.
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King, Behold your King.

Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.

Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.

Merry Christmas.

(Michael Crawford from 1993 TV Christmas Special)

Giveaway FINAL WEEK!

2008-12-15T16:05:00.000-08:00

FINAL WEEK of our C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION GIVEAWAY and because it is Christmas I will be giving away not ONE, but TWO charms this week (YEP you read it right) we will have 2 winners this week!

So come on girls - get your favorites posted. If you are new to the giveaway just scroll down to find the rules. Don't forget to post a comment so you get counted and if someone referred you - please let me know. GOOD LUCK!

Home Study is complete!

2008-12-14T21:23:00.000-08:00

Yep...that's right our home study is complete and on its way to VA for approval from AWAA HQ. This is a big one folks - really BIG! Just in case you are curious or just want to better appreciate and understand the details of the adoption process - I have outlined below for you.

Our HS is a compilation of documents that includes a 17 page detail of our life.

Adoptive Parents stats
Application & Type of Child Requested
Duty of Disclosure
Adoption issues & motivation to adopt from China
Description of adoptive parents (that's us!)
Education and Employment
Personal
Marital Relationship
Attitude Towards Birth parents
Lifestyle
Health
Religion
Child Care Plans
Financial Capabilities
Home and Community Environment
References
Parenting
Expectations to the Development and Growth of a child
Clearances (CPS)
Pre-Adoption - Home visits
Ability to Travel
Documents
• AWAA Application
• Birth Certificates
• Marriage Certificate
• Verification of Health, Life and Auto Insurance
• Verification of Employment
• Verification of Homeowner’s Insurance
• Copy of Arizona Driver’s License
• Verification of Fees Paid
• Copy of Letter of Request for Child
• Current income tax return
• Five letters of reference
• Financial Statement
• Medical reports
• Police clearance letters
• Fingerprint results
• Child Protective service clearances
• Autobiographies
• Signed Guardianship Statement
Guardianship
Summary & Agency's Recommendation (we passed!)

To all our family that we love and appreciate so much - you may not know it but your are already doing your part. We couldn't have told our life stories - without mentioning our wonderful parents - Mom, Dad, Ken & Carol - thank you for life...thank you for the wonderful childhoods memories...thank you for endless opportunities, lessons and wisdom.

Then of coarse what would our lives be without our brother's, sister's, BIL's, SIL's and nieces and newphews! Bro- Don, Denise, Amanda, Mathew & Michael. Ken, Julie and Brittany. Thank you for being BIG brothers, little sisters and friends.

We are so happy that you are apart of our life story - we could not have done it without you!

XOXO

And the winner is...Jeanette!!!

2008-12-12T21:02:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Jeanette at http://blessedbybaseballsandbows.blogspot.com/ she is this weeks winner!

Thank you for all your support!
Sheri

Adoption Update

2008-12-11T05:53:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone

We have not posted an update in a while - and Dave said that our blog is looking a bit promotional. Today - I have updates on our HS that I would like to share.

This am - I awoke at the crack of dawn and can I tell you - there is nothing more beautiful than an Arizona sunrise on a cold December day (cold being relevant - I know) I did just looked and it is currently 37 degrees - very cold by AZ standards.

We spoke with our SW (social worker) yesterday - she is working on the final stages of our HS (home study) and we should see a rough draft today or tomorrow. Once we see a copy - we are required to go through it and check dates, names, numbers etc. Then back to SW for final draft - from there it goes to VA where our FC (family coordinator) and her boss from AWAA review and approve it!

Once everyone signs off on our HS - we are ready to submit to the courts (AZ reguires all HS to go through the juvenile courts) where a judge must approve that we are worthy to adopt! Crazy - huh? All these processes are in place to protect these little helpless babies - but what is the turn over value for us?

I know I have said this before - but the entire HS process has been an incredible journey. It has forced us to look deep into our souls. It has forced us to reminess about the amazing life we have been given (thanks - mom's and dad's). It has forced us to open up our hearts to each other and others more than ever before. It has also forced us to be humble and have a bit more humility. I believe this process has strenghten us as individuals and as parents to be.

I want to thank all our family friends for their kind words of encouragement and support.

Big CHARM ADDICTION Giveaway - Week 2

2008-12-05T22:05:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS to Jenny - she was last weeks winner - but no worries - we still have 2 weeks left! So lets review....

As some of you know, I created a little business to help defer the cost of adoption. THANK YOU to everyone that has bought charms and passed along the WEBSITE ADDRESS (www.CHARMADDICTION.etsy.com) to friends and family. Your help is working; to date I have sold 48 charms across the country and around the world (TWO TO SWEDEN!)

To help promote this business and bring our little Shania a step closer to us, we are sponsoring a CHARM GIVEAWAY. You don't have to spend a thing, just help me spread the love a little by promoting my favorite healthy addiction, C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION.

Over the next two weeks I will be giving away two more, (YES 2 more!), C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION charms. Here's how you can HELP and WIN!

Go to C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION and pick out your favorite charm - WARNING...I have posted lots of new adorable and addicting charms so choosing might be the hardest part.
Grab a picture of your favorite charm (just cut and paste from our site) post it on your website, blog, facebook or myspace page with a little blurb about why you like the charm, along with a link to C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION.
If you have more than one favorite charm you can post it as well - there is no limit to how many favorite charms you can post - for every post you will receive another entry.
Return to this post and place a comment - please include a link to your blog post.
Bonus double entry - tell a friend and when they post it, YOU will recieve (2) two entries! Just let me know in the comments that you referred a friend and give me a link to their post!

Easy right?

You can start posting anytime or if you are going to leave your current post - just let me know. I will give away a charm every Friday for the next 2 weeks.

Friday, December 5th - Jenny (http://www.inhonorofheritage.blogspot.com)
Friday, December 12th
Friday, December 18th

You are probably thinking "hey, what charm will I win?" That's a great question and I have an answer. You win the one you choose! How sweet is that? Pick your favorite charm and if your name is drawn that is the charm you will win!

Winners will be drawn EACH FRIDAY (using Random.org) for the NEXT TWO WEEKS! Winners will be posted right here on the blog, so check back on FRIDAY to see if you have won! I'll ship anywhere in the world - so SWEDEN, you're in!

Thanks!

We have a winner...

2008-12-05T21:50:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Jenny at http://www.inhonorofheritage.blogspot.com she is this weeks winner! Don't worry though girls there is still two weeks left to go!

Thank you for all your support!
Sheri

Big CHARM ADDICTION Giveaway

2008-11-26T05:43:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, I created a little business to help defer the cost of adoption. THANK YOU to everyone that has bought charms and passed along the WEBSITE ADDRESS (www.CHARMADDICTION.etsy.com) to friends and family. Your help is working; to date I have sold 36 charms across the country and around the world (TWO TO SWEDEN!)

To help promote this business and bring our little Shania a step closer to us, we are sponsoring a CHARM GIVEAWAY. You don't have to spend a thing, just help me spread the love a little by promoting my favorite healthy addiction, C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION.

Over the next few weeks I will be giving away three, (YES 3!), C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION charms. Here's how you can HELP and WIN!

Go to C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION and pick out your favorite charm - WARNING...I have posted lots of new adorable and addicting charms so choosing might be the hardest part.
Grab a picture of your favorite charm (just cut and paste from our site) post it on your website, blog, facebook or myspace page with a little blurb about why you like the charm, along with a link to C.H.A.R.M. ADDICTION.
If you have more than one favorite charm you can post it as well - there is no limit to how many favorite charms you can post - for every post you will receive another entry.
Return to this post and place a comment - please include a link to your blog post.
Bonus double entry - tell a friend and when they post it, YOU will recieve (2) two entries! Just let me know in the comments that you referred a friend and give me a link to their post!

Easy right?

You can start posting today, Friday, November 28th. I will give away a charm every Friday for the next 3 weeks.

Friday, December 5th
Friday, December 12th
Friday, December 18th

You are probably thinking "hey, what charm will I win?" That's a great question and I have an answer. You win the one you choose! How sweet is that? Pick your favorite charm and if your name is drawn that is the charm you will win!

Winners will be drawn EACH FRIDAY (using Random.org) for the NEXT THREE WEEKS! Winners will be posted right here on the blog, so check back on FRIDAY to see if you have won! I'll ship anywhere in the world - so SWEDEN, you're in!

Thanks!

Checking the Last Box

2008-11-23T19:28:00.000-08:00

Here is a pretty big update for you... We are about to check off the last item in our home study. The last item is my physical exam.

China has a number of medical requirements to qualify for adoption. One of them is for a BMI (body mass index) under a certain number. When we started the process I did not qualify, but now I do. In the past six months I have lost the equivalent of at least two Thanksgiving turkeys. It's been a fantastic, fun, and sometimes stressful time for us. Sheri has been my champion through this adventure and continues to give me the desire to be the best possible husband, and if God wills father, that I can be.

First thing tomorrow morning I go to the doctor for my physical exam. We'll then check the last box on our home study.

all in his good timing

2008-11-18T19:02:00.000-08:00

I received this from a friend today - it could not have come at a more appropriate time. As we wind down our HS - I sometimes feel like we are taking 1 step forward and 2 steps back. I was feeling a bit discouraged - mostly because things were not moving at my pace (:

"But these things I plan won't happen right away.
Slowly, steadily, surely the time approaches when the
vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, be patient!
For it will surely take place. It will not be late by a
single day. Habakkuk 2:3

What a wonderful reminder on Gods promise and timing.

PS Thank you Kathy for the wonderful scripture and thank you Jen for your comic relief and your encouragement.

It's already been three weeks, so where's our baby?

2008-11-16T18:20:00.000-08:00

Dave posted this title 3 weeks after we had made our final decision to adopt.

It has actually now been 5 months and I thought it would be nice to take a look back at our journey and where we are today. Even though the process seems slow at times, the truth of the matter is a lot of incredible things have been accomplished. Of coarse there is the paperwork, Home Studies, Medical test and Fees but the most incredible highlight of all has been the relationships we have built and the knowledge we have gained.

We have had the opportunity to talk to, email and actually meet many wonderful people in the adoption world. Some that have adopted from China and are already home with their children. Some that are in the process and some that just want to help people who are interested in adoption.

For instance My "adoption friend" Jen (Hi Jen) we exchange email almost daily. Jen, PJ, Ashlyn and Phillip are an adorable family from Texas and they are just a little ahead of is the adoption process.

There is Jeanette - who found us through another blog and after an exchange of a couple of emails - learned that we live a mile away! Her family just celebrated their one year home with Elizabeth - there adorable little princess from China. They actually go to our church and invited us to their Thursday night bible study. We have attended two consecutive studies - and they actually invited us back! What wonderful people!

Many families that we have met are currently in the China program, some for over two years now. Currently the wait time is three years and appears to be growing with each month. As we continue to follow the China Program and finalize our HS(Home Study) We are continuing to look at all options for adoption. Our hope is by December, our HS will be completed and through the courts - this means we will be certified through the state of Arizona to adopt domestically or internationally.

Each day brings new opportunities, opens new doors and new life journeys. Where will this one lead us next?

Everything to me

2008-11-02T20:27:00.000-08:00

November is National Adoption month and we thought it only appropriate to celebrate by honoring the one person that that makes all adoptions possible. Whether the path of domestic or internationally adoption is chosen, the one common denominator is the birth mother.

To all birth mothers across the US and around the world; thank you for making one of the hardest decisions in your life. Thank you for choosing life. Thank you for carrying a child for nine months, going through the pain of labor, holding the child in your arms and loving the child so much that you did the most unselfish thing you could do. You game this child a chance to live, you gave this child a mommy and daddy, you gave this child hope.

The video below is a song by Mark Schultz who was given up for adoption. It is his tribute to his birth mother and birth mothers around the world.

Thank you for everything

Preparing for the big day

2008-10-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

No not that one silly...

The elections! We have been given freedom and the incredible right to vote because of our founding fathers and many who have died on our behalf. November 4th is an important day for all of us - including our little Shania who is not even born yet.

It is our right and privileged to be heard on this day. Make sure to have your voice heard and your vote counted. Voting is the most basic form of involvement in our democratic system and one that we can all be a part of. American voters will determine who will lead us, make our laws and protect our liberties.

It is a a weighty responsibility and it is absolutely critical that we all understand where our candidates stand on the issues that matter to us personally. Do your homework so that you may choose the candidates that best line up with your beliefs, convictions and values.

Change is inevitable - and our hope is that the future for our family is one where democracy is strengthened, not weakened. Where freedom throughout the world is advanced, not set back. Where American's are encouraged to do their best and receive the rewards, not complacent to take handouts and look to the government for answers. Where everyone looks to his neighbor and says 'how can I help them?' not 'how can they help me.'

Eight days from now we will wake up and their will be a new president elect. Roughly half of the country will be disappointed. It will be vitally important that we all rally together around the president and vice-president (whomever he and she are) to boldly move this country forward. Please join me in putting aside politics (while still clinging to beliefs, morals and integrity) to make this great country even better for Shania.

USCIS is going in the mail tomorrow

2008-10-26T22:00:00.000-07:00

We completed another extensive and complicated document today. The I800-A form that goes to the Department of Homeland Security. It is required by OUR government along with a healthy fee and from what I can tell is basically our request for official government fingerprinting.

Hmmm hope the incident coming home from Rocky Point earlier this year doesn't come up (: It was really nothing...instead of using our passports (the sensible thing) we tried to show our DL's when coming back into AZ and the border patrol agent told us he was going to flag us as non-compliant. Hope that's not too bad ):

Dave will be getting the required money order and copies tomorrow and is putting the I800A form in the mail! Yeah!!! Just one more detail that puts us closer to our little "Shania"

Goodnight for now...

Final Home Study Visit is Over!

2008-10-18T17:05:00.000-07:00

We just now completed our final home study visit and I believe that we have passed. Our emergency numbers are posted, our evacuation plan is on display, guns are all locked up, and all of our toxic waste has been properly disposed.

Special thanks to our special neighbors Janet and Gregg who loaned us their vacuum cleaner when ours died out unexpectedly this morning. They live in Alaska part time so they don't even know it yet - thanks guys!

Now our social worker Tricia is going to put together the reports she generated during our three visits together and write the official Home Study Report. This report is submitted locally to the court and is translated into Mandarin and sent to China. It is the first of three major steps in the Shania Project. Home Study, Dossier, and I-800 USCIS. One down and two to go!

Thank you to everyone who has been thinking of us and praying for us today. Words can't fully express our gratitude.

Final Home Study on Saturday

2008-10-14T22:04:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, October 18 is circled in red on our calendar. It marks the day of our final home study visit with our social worker. If you have been following the list along the right side of this blog you have seen all of those home study items move from the to-do list to the done list. (another example of my wonderful wife's persistence and multi-tasking skills, you amaze me Shmoopie).

Saturday's visit is one of the final hurdles in the home study process. Once the visit is completed our social worker Trish will write the home study report, which is then translated and sent to the CCAA (China Center of Adoption Affairs).

Each day brings us closer to our little Shania.

Adoption Fundraising

2008-10-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

Adoptive families describe adoption as a significant, amazing and life-changing experience. They also say that it is expensive. I am absolutely amazed at families that have adopted two, three or more kids over a short period of time. How do they pull that off financially? My guess is that it is resourcefulness and the following blog supports that. Touching Lives... One at a Time is a site dedicated to promoting fundraisers for adoptive families. Check out the creative ways people come up with to fund their own Shania Projects.

Sheri's amazing jewelry received a mention this week. Thanks Lady in Waiting!

To our little Shania: add one more to the list of people that love you and care about you. Come see us soon little peanut.

Fenced in...

2008-10-08T23:39:00.000-07:00

or out, depending on how you look at. The pool fence is in. A little weird, 9 years without a pool fence and voila, the fence is in. I think I like it. I was concerned that it would bother me but I barely notice it. It looks nice! Not sure that Louie (Missy's dog) and Rock Star know what to think of it, especially because it has still been pretty warm here and we keep them out of the pool area most of time. They like to swim on demand. It's all for you little Shania (:

Etsy is up and running

2008-10-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

I am so excited! I have been soldering for a week now, and with the help of my patient, smart and kind husband I now have some of my latest solder pieces on the web. So please go take a look. These are just a few of the latest designs. I will work on getting my initials and little girl designs up soon! Have fun (Oh, and buy something too!)

www.charmaddiction.etsy.com

Our Photo Page

2008-10-02T21:37:00.000-07:00

Three photo pages are required for our dossier for China. The CCAA is very specific on what they want to see. Here are our photo pages, approved and ready to go to China!

Whew!

2008-09-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

This week we are making big exciting (sometimes stressful) strides!

The pool fence will be installed on Thursday (Rockey and Louie will not be happy ):

I have given blood and other samples more times in the last week than I care to give. For those of you that know me (and this is where the stress comes in), you know that needles and doctors are not my thing - I have avoided them for a very long time...longer than I care to admit. But for this particular project - avoidance was defiantly not an option. Between my physical (that I worried myself almost sick over - but passed with flying colors!) and life insurance requirements I saw more doctors, needles, scales ): and vials then I have probably seen in my entire life.

Today, I count my blessing and thank god for all he has provided me and especially my health, my husband and His grace.