Our official December numbers are:
40 girl
29 boy
11 siblings
We are grateful to see a little movement this month!
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Monday, December 12, 2011
One Year.....
Today marks one year on the waiting list. While it has been a challenging time for me, I am excited that we have one year under our belt with this process. We originally expected a 9-12 month wait period, then it was extended to 12-18month wait. At this point, I'm REALLY hoping it isn't much longer than that!
I'm so grateful for these past 12 months because it has brought so many wonderful opportunities to share about adoption with others. The outpouring of support, fundraising, prayers, and love is so touching. I've really been given a chance to see who my "tribe" is, and I feel so much support and encouragement.
God has used this time of waiting to show me how to appreciate my husband more. Nate is truly my best friend and deepest confidant. I cant imagine sharing this long journey with anyone else.
This year I have treasured watching Oliver grow. He is my heart.
I have spent this past year evaluating my fears, preconceived notions, and re-evaluated my "American Dream." I am amazed how my heart has opened up this past year, and how I have found a passion for orphans around the world.
I am eager to know our next family member. There isn't a day I haven't prayed, wished, and hoped for them.
The waiting is hard, and painful at times. Trusting that God used this time to refine me is easy to see now, one year in.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
For the Christmas List....
Last Christmas our family decided to give gifts that "keep giving." The Mocha Club, TOMS, and fundraising families selling products on Etsy are who we purchased from. I loved that the gifts we gave supported projects we believed in, and people who have a heart for adoption.
This year I plan to do the same again! In fact, I love this idea so much that I plan on making it part of my gift-giving tradition. Will you join me?
FashionABLE- I've blogged about them before and even received my own scarf from them last year (Thanks Nate!). Now fashioABLE has a bigger selection to choose from, and a kids line. How cute is that?! My scarf was delivered with a hand written note from the woman who made it. I can't even describe how meaningful that was to me.
Ordinary Hero- a wonderful organization that benefits international and domestic adoptions. They have great gear and accessories. Want to make an even bigger impact? Give the gift of a donkey to a community in need. Yay for donkeys.
Red Earth Trading Company-handmade jewelry, baskets, and bags. Makes for some great gifts.
Glimmer of Hope- - An amazing organization. Check out the new: "Buy a brick. Build a school. " program. Another option is to donate to an existing campaign program, or start your own. 100 percent of your gift directly impacts the people of Ethiopia.
Noonday Jewelry collection--Some really beautiful jewelry for that special someone. Give a unique gift to your loved ones with a meaningful story behind it.
147 Million Orphans-A couple adoptive moms created this company. Great comfy t-shirts, with a bold message.
Just Love Coffee-Make a coffee gift basket! By purchasing from this link, $5 will be donated towards our adoption fund. Throw in some mugs, tea, cocoa, and you have yourself a wonderful gift for somebody special.
Tax deductible donation- Want to make an even bigger impact? You can make a tax deductable donation in a loved ones name, that will 100% directly impact our adoption.
Family Photography Session-$100- Need updated family photos? New pictures of your grandchild? I'll send you a gift card for a portrait session. Fundraiser for our adoption.
This year I plan to do the same again! In fact, I love this idea so much that I plan on making it part of my gift-giving tradition. Will you join me?
FashionABLE- I've blogged about them before and even received my own scarf from them last year (Thanks Nate!). Now fashioABLE has a bigger selection to choose from, and a kids line. How cute is that?! My scarf was delivered with a hand written note from the woman who made it. I can't even describe how meaningful that was to me.
Ordinary Hero- a wonderful organization that benefits international and domestic adoptions. They have great gear and accessories. Want to make an even bigger impact? Give the gift of a donkey to a community in need. Yay for donkeys.
Red Earth Trading Company-handmade jewelry, baskets, and bags. Makes for some great gifts.
Glimmer of Hope- - An amazing organization. Check out the new: "Buy a brick. Build a school. " program. Another option is to donate to an existing campaign program, or start your own. 100 percent of your gift directly impacts the people of Ethiopia.
Noonday Jewelry collection--Some really beautiful jewelry for that special someone. Give a unique gift to your loved ones with a meaningful story behind it.
147 Million Orphans-A couple adoptive moms created this company. Great comfy t-shirts, with a bold message.
Just Love Coffee-Make a coffee gift basket! By purchasing from this link, $5 will be donated towards our adoption fund. Throw in some mugs, tea, cocoa, and you have yourself a wonderful gift for somebody special.
Tax deductible donation- Want to make an even bigger impact? You can make a tax deductable donation in a loved ones name, that will 100% directly impact our adoption.
Family Photography Session-$100- Need updated family photos? New pictures of your grandchild? I'll send you a gift card for a portrait session. Fundraiser for our adoption.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
A Christmas Tree Fundraiser
We are so grateful for some friends of ours who planned a fundraising event this holiday season on our behalf. They own a local Christmas Tree Farm and if you present this voucher, half the proceeds will be donated towards our adoption!
The location is a U-Cut property with saws for you to use, but I noticed that they had some pre-cut trees too. And don't forget the beautiful wreaths and hot cocoa. They will shake and bail your tree on the spot too. Our tree is just lovely and it smells yummy too.
Feel free to print this photo and use it this season. Thanks guys!
The location is a U-Cut property with saws for you to use, but I noticed that they had some pre-cut trees too. And don't forget the beautiful wreaths and hot cocoa. They will shake and bail your tree on the spot too. Our tree is just lovely and it smells yummy too.
Feel free to print this photo and use it this season. Thanks guys!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
November numbers
Not much to report this month on the adoption front. We received our November numbers.
On the girls list we remained the same at number 43.
On the boys list we lost a spot at number 32.
And on the siblings list we lost two spots and moved to number 14.
I am reminded once again of God's perfect timing. This has been a journey of trust and patience.....two areas I know my heart needs refining on. The wait to bring a child into our home is long, but it is worth it. Hoping that next Thanksgiving will bring a new member of the family to be blessed by and grateful for.
Inspired by this week by This post.
On the girls list we remained the same at number 43.
On the boys list we lost a spot at number 32.
And on the siblings list we lost two spots and moved to number 14.
I am reminded once again of God's perfect timing. This has been a journey of trust and patience.....two areas I know my heart needs refining on. The wait to bring a child into our home is long, but it is worth it. Hoping that next Thanksgiving will bring a new member of the family to be blessed by and grateful for.
Inspired by this week by This post.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Awareness
I heard on the radio that November is adoption awareness month. The program mentioned the ridiculous number of kids in the U.S. who are in need of being adopted. Most of them are in the foster care system for three years before they 'age out' and are sent to live a life on their own. I can't imagine what it would be like to be 18 and sent out into the world without parents to turn to. Without any real direction. Growing up without really feeling wanted, or valued, or adored.
It's so sad to think about. Compounded by how our Nation handles these broken kids with that of all the children in third world countries living on the street, or in child imprisonment camps.
I'm not sharing all of this to be a 'Debbie Downer,' because really for me, adoption is something I treasure and am so passionate about. Yet, the need is so overwhelming at times I hope more people will consider how they can help.
I want to share a blog post that touches a bit on all these things, but primarily on how to help and understand families who choose adoption.
Visit here.
It's so sad to think about. Compounded by how our Nation handles these broken kids with that of all the children in third world countries living on the street, or in child imprisonment camps.
I'm not sharing all of this to be a 'Debbie Downer,' because really for me, adoption is something I treasure and am so passionate about. Yet, the need is so overwhelming at times I hope more people will consider how they can help.
I want to share a blog post that touches a bit on all these things, but primarily on how to help and understand families who choose adoption.
Visit here.
Friday, October 28, 2011
October Numbers
Today I received an email with our October numbers. The month of October marks our tenth month of waiting for another child (or children) to join our family. We are getting pretty excited around these parts. Current wait times are 12-18 months as predicted by our agency.
I am hopeful for more movement on the waiting list in the upcoming months because the "rainy season" is over in Ethiopia. This means the courts have opened once again! Here's to many more referrals on the adoption front!
Our official number for the girls list is: 43
Our official number for the boys list is: 31
And our official number for the siblings list is: 12
I am hopeful for more movement on the waiting list in the upcoming months because the "rainy season" is over in Ethiopia. This means the courts have opened once again! Here's to many more referrals on the adoption front!
Our official number for the girls list is: 43
Our official number for the boys list is: 31
And our official number for the siblings list is: 12
Saturday, October 8, 2011
To share
Wanted to share a few videos with you....
Click here.
And here.
Oh, and the new monthly waiting list numbers will be out next week!
Click here.
And here.
Oh, and the new monthly waiting list numbers will be out next week!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
FDL happens
Well, we got rained out this last weekend for our photography session. It was a real bummer, but that is the way it goes with this Oregon weather. We are trying for this upcoming weekend again if the rain stays away.
On a positive note we received our FDL (Favorable Determination Letter) which feels like a mini miracle. Those on the wait list are probably shocked that we just now are getting this. it turns out that we delayed sending off our I-600a (which is a petition to bring an orphan child to the US) because our family opened up our parameters. This included adding an addendum to our Homestudy and we wanted all of our information to match up correctly.
We sent off our I-600a, and received our fingerprinting biometrics appointment for the next week.
That is super fast.
We got our biometrics done, only to find out there was a mistake on our address (transcription error). This caused the biggest hassle ever. After talking to many, many people on the phone getting the run around, I was left frustrated and teary.
I need a shirt that says:
"Don't mess with a waiting adoptive mom. I have no control over my emotions. I am in the middle of the longest adoption ever. Step off."
Anyways, I finally was able to get it all straightened out, breathe a sigh of relief, and then found our Favorable Determination Letter (what we petitioned for with the I-600a) in my mailbox two days later.
That is a miracle people. The average wait time on USCIS website is 5 months. I expected a little faster processing because we are adopting, but man, 2 weeks bata-bing, bata-boom. Thank you USCIS and the FBI!
What does all this mean?
It means that our dossier (our packet of info) gets sent to ET, translated, and then our baby/babies will be matched with our family.
On a positive note we received our FDL (Favorable Determination Letter) which feels like a mini miracle. Those on the wait list are probably shocked that we just now are getting this. it turns out that we delayed sending off our I-600a (which is a petition to bring an orphan child to the US) because our family opened up our parameters. This included adding an addendum to our Homestudy and we wanted all of our information to match up correctly.
We sent off our I-600a, and received our fingerprinting biometrics appointment for the next week.
That is super fast.
We got our biometrics done, only to find out there was a mistake on our address (transcription error). This caused the biggest hassle ever. After talking to many, many people on the phone getting the run around, I was left frustrated and teary.
I need a shirt that says:
"Don't mess with a waiting adoptive mom. I have no control over my emotions. I am in the middle of the longest adoption ever. Step off."
Anyways, I finally was able to get it all straightened out, breathe a sigh of relief, and then found our Favorable Determination Letter (what we petitioned for with the I-600a) in my mailbox two days later.
That is a miracle people. The average wait time on USCIS website is 5 months. I expected a little faster processing because we are adopting, but man, 2 weeks bata-bing, bata-boom. Thank you USCIS and the FBI!
What does all this mean?
It means that our dossier (our packet of info) gets sent to ET, translated, and then our baby/babies will be matched with our family.
Friday, September 16, 2011
This week we started Oliver in preschool. He loves it! I can't believe he is 3 years old. He is going to make such a fantastic older brother. We are hopeful in the upcoming months to make that a reality.
I was inspired by this family this week. It's just another little reminder to me of how God doesn't always give us what we want or expect in life, but rather what we NEED.
I was happy to receive our new monthly numbers, especially since they are lower than I anticipated!
For the month of September we are number 48 for girls
Number 34 for boys
And number 17 for a sibling group
This weekend is our Adoption Photography Session. Pictures will be posted soon!
I was inspired by this family this week. It's just another little reminder to me of how God doesn't always give us what we want or expect in life, but rather what we NEED.
I was happy to receive our new monthly numbers, especially since they are lower than I anticipated!
For the month of September we are number 48 for girls
Number 34 for boys
And number 17 for a sibling group
This weekend is our Adoption Photography Session. Pictures will be posted soon!
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Photography Session Fundraiser
I wanted to share that we are planning another Adoption Fundraiser Photography Session! See
Last summer's Photography Session
Photo sessions will take place Saturday, September 17th in Gladstone. Expect thirty minutes of photography per session. You will receive a disc of edited images for you to develop as you choose. Total investment is $100.
All proceeds benefit our adoption.
I'm praying for good weather again this year. I'm excited to see all the autumn colors in the photos! We are so grateful for everyone's support, and are planning to have this as our final fundraising event!
Stop by here to view examples of pictures, many of which have been taken at the Gladstone location.
Please sign up and spread the word! Contact me with any questions :)
Last summer's Photography Session
Photo sessions will take place Saturday, September 17th in Gladstone. Expect thirty minutes of photography per session. You will receive a disc of edited images for you to develop as you choose. Total investment is $100.
All proceeds benefit our adoption.
I'm praying for good weather again this year. I'm excited to see all the autumn colors in the photos! We are so grateful for everyone's support, and are planning to have this as our final fundraising event!
Stop by here to view examples of pictures, many of which have been taken at the Gladstone location.
Please sign up and spread the word! Contact me with any questions :)
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Adopt rinah
Visit this heartfelt blog about a young couple adopting their daughter from Uganda.
I love the video they created to share with others.
See Here
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
Video: Home At Last
A great adoption video from Good to Be Crazy.
Home At Last
P.S. I snagged this from The Lettered Cottage. Another home decor blog Family who is adopting.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Decor Love
I like to decorate. I just do.
I like to read about decorating homes, design ideas, color schemes. I love to watch "Secrets from A Stylist" and think about how me and the host Emily would be friends. I mean, we both think brass was never really out of style and it is finding it's way back into being super cool.
But not shiny brass.....antiqued brass.
I've also found hypothetical friends on the Internet through blogs that talk about decorating. I enjoy reading them and "researching."
I also like blogs that talk about adoption.
When I found this blog, I couldn't read enough because it talks about decorating and adoption. Yes! My two passions collide! A decorating adoptive mama after my own heart.
I especially love reading about these twiblings too. Check it.
And below, another inspiring story about twiblings:
The Story of Robert and Debora Brown from The Summit Church on Vimeo.
">Thursday, August 18, 2011
August Numbers!
I saw this adoption ad and it made me smile. I think there might be a lot of truth in that little picture.
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Source
I'm excited to share our August wait list numbers with you all. We finally have our home study addendum approved with our new 'boy' number of 37! We are so thrilled to finally officially be on that boy list!
More excitement comes in the form of our siblings list number of 20. Could it possibly be that we will finally be in the 'teens' next month!?!? (ok, I officially thought we were unofficially number 19 already but that's ok) Are you confused yet?
And lastly, our 'girl' number of 54. We are happy to see some movement in that number this month as well!
Our little family has been pretty busy this summer. Finally enjoying some overdue Oregon sunshine. With that sunshine has come the opportunity for me to do wedding and family pictures. Thank you so much for those who have invited me to snap your photos! You are helping finance this adoption. I can't express my gratitude enough! I'm hoping to schedule another photography mini session for early fall and am gathering names of those who might be interested in participating. Email me if you are able to join in. I'm also considering a different blog format to share my thoughts, our adoption journey, and YOUR photos. Any suggestions on a better blogging format?
src="http://www.instablogsimages.com/images/2007/04/20/adopt2_25.jpg" border="0" alt="" />
Source
I'm excited to share our August wait list numbers with you all. We finally have our home study addendum approved with our new 'boy' number of 37! We are so thrilled to finally officially be on that boy list!
More excitement comes in the form of our siblings list number of 20. Could it possibly be that we will finally be in the 'teens' next month!?!? (ok, I officially thought we were unofficially number 19 already but that's ok) Are you confused yet?
And lastly, our 'girl' number of 54. We are happy to see some movement in that number this month as well!
Our little family has been pretty busy this summer. Finally enjoying some overdue Oregon sunshine. With that sunshine has come the opportunity for me to do wedding and family pictures. Thank you so much for those who have invited me to snap your photos! You are helping finance this adoption. I can't express my gratitude enough! I'm hoping to schedule another photography mini session for early fall and am gathering names of those who might be interested in participating. Email me if you are able to join in. I'm also considering a different blog format to share my thoughts, our adoption journey, and YOUR photos. Any suggestions on a better blogging format?
src="http://www.instablogsimages.com/images/2007/04/20/adopt2_25.jpg" border="0" alt="" />
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Official July Numbers
Finally a little movement on the adoption front!
Our officially July girls number is 58:
And for the first time I will start posting our official siblings list number of 21:
I've never paid too close attention to the siblings number, but now I'm realizing how quickly that number has dropped! Eight months ago when we got on the waiting list our siblings number was 49 to start us off.
I posted recently how I feel at peace regarding this waiting process lately. I know there may be more frustrating days ahead, but each new day brings me one step closer to my little one (or ones)!
Our officially July girls number is 58:
And for the first time I will start posting our official siblings list number of 21:
I've never paid too close attention to the siblings number, but now I'm realizing how quickly that number has dropped! Eight months ago when we got on the waiting list our siblings number was 49 to start us off.
I posted recently how I feel at peace regarding this waiting process lately. I know there may be more frustrating days ahead, but each new day brings me one step closer to my little one (or ones)!
Friday, July 15, 2011
What? No July numbers yet?
I'm expecting to get our July numbers today. After holding the 65th spot two months in a row, I'm eager for our official new stats. I've done some investigative work (really just blog stalking), and I believe we have dropped 7 spots! Finally, some decent movement!
What's with everyone having their July numbers ahead of me anyways?
I mentioned in my last post that we are opening up our parameters. Nothing is official yet, until we get our paperwork in, which will hopefully be done by early next week. Once the homestudy has been updated, I will be able to post our new boy waiting list numbers! Is it weird how excited I am at the possibility of another little guy around here?
I can't even explain how at peace I am these days over the adoption. I'm sure it has something to do with letting go of my wants/desires/expectations.. I'm so excited to see how God will shape our family, because after all He does know best.
I recently read at The Handmade Home (a home decor blog that I heart) about her baby boy Malone, and Mom's mixed feelings about being pregnant again and secretly wanting a girl. And how the moment she laid eyes on that newborn boy, she instantly fell in love. Read it here. I relate to her post as we are in the midst of changing our parameters and expectations.
Have a blessed day. Looking forward to posting the new official numbers soon.
What's with everyone having their July numbers ahead of me anyways?
I mentioned in my last post that we are opening up our parameters. Nothing is official yet, until we get our paperwork in, which will hopefully be done by early next week. Once the homestudy has been updated, I will be able to post our new boy waiting list numbers! Is it weird how excited I am at the possibility of another little guy around here?
I can't even explain how at peace I am these days over the adoption. I'm sure it has something to do with letting go of my wants/desires/expectations.. I'm so excited to see how God will shape our family, because after all He does know best.
I recently read at The Handmade Home (a home decor blog that I heart) about her baby boy Malone, and Mom's mixed feelings about being pregnant again and secretly wanting a girl. And how the moment she laid eyes on that newborn boy, she instantly fell in love. Read it here. I relate to her post as we are in the midst of changing our parameters and expectations.
Have a blessed day. Looking forward to posting the new official numbers soon.
Friday, July 1, 2011
A super garage sale and more!
We had our biggy, big, big garage sale a couple of weekends ago, and boy I'm still recovering! It was a terrific success bringing in another $2500! Wahoo! This sale, combined with the success of last years sale has helped to make a huge dent in our adoption fees. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all that were a part of the craziness that it was!
I'm a bad blogger because I didn't get pictures this year. What can I say, those early birds showed up before I could grab the camera.
A little update on our adoption.....
I've been a bit neglectful to this little blog, but really it's because I've had a lot on my mind and heart. I've been sifting through my thoughts, and reanalyzing our adoption parameters. I've had to sort through a lot of things on my own, and I've come to the conclusion that I'm kinda selfish.
Now lift your jaws off the floor because I understand what a shocking statement that was for you to read about Muah.
The truth is, this life isn't about me.
As much as I think it is, it's not.
As much as I want it to be, it's not.
Sweet little ole me dreams of having a daughter one day. Does that mean I'm going to? Uh, no. Does that mean I'm supposed to? Uh, not necessarily. Does that mean I should skip over all those precious Ethiopian boys because I jump on the "girls only" list because I'm selfish?
Hmmmm, not the picture I want to be painting for myself.
In other words, I've had a change of heart. I'm ready to love me some cute boy buns, or girl buns. God gets to pick, not me.
If it means that I remain Queen of my house than so be it. (Yes, I'm already talking like Royalty).
What does all this mean in adoption news? It means we are updating our file. We will also be opening our age range up as well, to the maximum our adoption agency will allow (approximately 2 years old). Redefining our parameters requires paying an additional fee, but we are excited to see what lies ahead for our family.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
June numbers
Our June number didn't see any movement this month. The slow down in Ethiopia seems to be taking effect. It's hard for me not to be disappointed sometimes. Our adoption agency is gearing us up for an 18month wait......so now we are looking at another year before a referral.
International adoption is known for long waiting periods and dealing with many unknowns. I'll be real honest and raw here......sometimes I struggle with what God has called our family to. This time of waiting is not easy, especially in the midst of so many slow downs. There are parts of me that wish I would have tried longer on getting pregnant, or looked more into domestic adoption. At the time, I was so done with hormones and treatments, and domestic infant adoption had a longer wait. Africa seemed to have a real pull on my heart.
We are a young family........it's hard to sit tight sometimes.
When I find myself struggling with this, I think back to all that has changed in my heart and life over the course of this year. I would probably do things differently knowing what I know now. But what I would do differently might surprise you.....I wouldn't pursue more fertility treatments or adopt domestically. I'm so grateful I have been given the chance to go down this road. It is a blessing. It is my honor.
What I would do differently is choose a waiting child.
Currently, there are no waiting children at our agency that are young enough (our agency requires adopted children to be 10 months younger for that "baby" experience).
While there are hundreds of families in line for healthy infants, these waiting children are skipped over because of medical issues or age. I can't imagine what it would feel like to be one of them.
Over the course of this year, God has wrecked my heart over these kids in Ethiopia. When I find myself struggling with the long wait, or the "what ifs" the bottom line is that I will wait. I will raise a ransom to bring my child home. I will fight to give my child shelter, health, value, worth, the love of a family, and the knowledge that they are a precious child of God.
Wouldn't you fight for your child if they needed you?
My child needs me.
There are 147 million orphans that need us.
Gods heart is for the orphan. It is written over and over in the Bible. How can I say no because it gets hard or difficult?
A staggering statistic is: if 7 percent of professing Christians adopted, there would be no more orphans. None, zero, anywhere! Think about how that would change our planet.......
International adoption is known for long waiting periods and dealing with many unknowns. I'll be real honest and raw here......sometimes I struggle with what God has called our family to. This time of waiting is not easy, especially in the midst of so many slow downs. There are parts of me that wish I would have tried longer on getting pregnant, or looked more into domestic adoption. At the time, I was so done with hormones and treatments, and domestic infant adoption had a longer wait. Africa seemed to have a real pull on my heart.
We are a young family........it's hard to sit tight sometimes.
When I find myself struggling with this, I think back to all that has changed in my heart and life over the course of this year. I would probably do things differently knowing what I know now. But what I would do differently might surprise you.....I wouldn't pursue more fertility treatments or adopt domestically. I'm so grateful I have been given the chance to go down this road. It is a blessing. It is my honor.
What I would do differently is choose a waiting child.
Currently, there are no waiting children at our agency that are young enough (our agency requires adopted children to be 10 months younger for that "baby" experience).
While there are hundreds of families in line for healthy infants, these waiting children are skipped over because of medical issues or age. I can't imagine what it would feel like to be one of them.
Over the course of this year, God has wrecked my heart over these kids in Ethiopia. When I find myself struggling with the long wait, or the "what ifs" the bottom line is that I will wait. I will raise a ransom to bring my child home. I will fight to give my child shelter, health, value, worth, the love of a family, and the knowledge that they are a precious child of God.
Wouldn't you fight for your child if they needed you?
My child needs me.
There are 147 million orphans that need us.
Gods heart is for the orphan. It is written over and over in the Bible. How can I say no because it gets hard or difficult?
A staggering statistic is: if 7 percent of professing Christians adopted, there would be no more orphans. None, zero, anywhere! Think about how that would change our planet.......
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
It's back......mega sale!
We are having another blowout yard sale! My garage is piling high with donations already. So many people shopped our sale this time last summer, I was overwhelmed with the turnout! I dont think I sat down for three solid days.
Lately, I've been working on some furniture pieces and plan on selling 75 percent of my belongings....(at least that's what it feels like.) Believe me, it's an easy decision for me......furniture, or a cute little daughter? Well, cute daughter of course! Who needs a coffee table anyway?! I'd probably sell the food out of my pantry if people want to buy ;)
My family and friends are amazing! Thank you so much for contributing to the sale. I'm really hoping to get most donations by the end of this week so I can organize and price everything.
As many of you know, we still have an estimated 15k in referral, medical, transition house and travel fees. We are also in the process of changing our home study parameters. We want to extend our age range from the current 0-18 months to a new 0-2 years, or the oldest our agency allows. I know it doesn't seem like much, but our AGCI requires a one year age difference, and Oliver is almost 3.
Oliver has been asking about his baby sister from time to time. I think he will be an amazing big brother to her......as long as she likes Thomas the Tank Engine!
Yes, I promise this will be our last mega garage sale (I hope!)
Our sale is part of an entire community garage sale weekend so be ready for some bargains! I think nearly 200 homes are registered to participate.
Please come out June 17, 18, 19. Follow the adoption benefit signs from Sunnyside and 122nd. Hope to see you there!
Friday, May 13, 2011
May Number......
We received our new May number and honestly I am rejoicing to see SOME movement. Things are moving PAINFULLY slow, but we are trusting in Gods timing for our family. It is a struggle for me to find peace and patience through this waiting period, but I know each new day brings us closer to meeting our sweet one.
May's number is:
May's number is:
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Ethiopian Dolls
Cars, trains, Lego's, and balls have been the toy isles I've shopped until as of late. I've found myself turning down the "girl" toy isle recently, only to be completely disappointed.
Finding black dolls are nearly impossible.
At Walmart, the only doll that wasn't white and blue-eyed was "ethnically ambiguous." I was having a hard time deciding if it was Black, Native American, Hispanic, or a really tan white doll. I've also noticed that the black dolls seem to be lacking ethnic features.
Sad to say that as a white person, I haven't given much thought as to how difficult it is for African American girls to find dolls that look like them. My hope is that I will have an assortment of beautiful Black dolls for our girl to grow up with. I want our daughter to know just how unique her features are.
I turned to the Internet and found this great doll. I love her soft curls and dark skin. I went ahead and ordered her since she is reasonably priced and has been selling out. She arrived in the mail today, and she is awesome. Even though I don't know our daughter yet I can still buy her presents, right?! Plus, a portion of the purchase price goes towards World Vision, a terrific organization.
The Heart 4 Hearts Ethiopia Doll
I also found this collector doll. She is pricey, but I love that she is in beautiful Ethiopian Dress and represents Ethiopian history. I hope to bring her home one day.
From Ethiodolls, Makeda Queen of Sheba
Lastly, I remember playing with American Girls when I was younger. I found a line called "The Girls From Many Lands" collection, and was glad to see an Ethiopian Doll. Would love to have her too.
The Girls From Many Lands Collection
Of course I wish these dolls were on the toy isles at our local stores, but I am thankful they are at least available online. It is just a clear reminder to me how "white" focused our American culture can be.
If anyone happens to find anymore great ethnic dolls let me know!
Finding black dolls are nearly impossible.
At Walmart, the only doll that wasn't white and blue-eyed was "ethnically ambiguous." I was having a hard time deciding if it was Black, Native American, Hispanic, or a really tan white doll. I've also noticed that the black dolls seem to be lacking ethnic features.
Sad to say that as a white person, I haven't given much thought as to how difficult it is for African American girls to find dolls that look like them. My hope is that I will have an assortment of beautiful Black dolls for our girl to grow up with. I want our daughter to know just how unique her features are.
I turned to the Internet and found this great doll. I love her soft curls and dark skin. I went ahead and ordered her since she is reasonably priced and has been selling out. She arrived in the mail today, and she is awesome. Even though I don't know our daughter yet I can still buy her presents, right?! Plus, a portion of the purchase price goes towards World Vision, a terrific organization.
The Heart 4 Hearts Ethiopia Doll
I also found this collector doll. She is pricey, but I love that she is in beautiful Ethiopian Dress and represents Ethiopian history. I hope to bring her home one day.
From Ethiodolls, Makeda Queen of Sheba
Lastly, I remember playing with American Girls when I was younger. I found a line called "The Girls From Many Lands" collection, and was glad to see an Ethiopian Doll. Would love to have her too.
The Girls From Many Lands Collection
Of course I wish these dolls were on the toy isles at our local stores, but I am thankful they are at least available online. It is just a clear reminder to me how "white" focused our American culture can be.
If anyone happens to find anymore great ethnic dolls let me know!
Monday, April 18, 2011
The Farmers Wife Tells All
Each adoption has it's own story, it's own timeline. For many people on the outside it is easy to wonder why an individual family would risk so much, spend so much, and WAIT so long for a child they do not know.
But that is what inspires me about families who adopt.
Following these families who are willing to step out of their comfort zone and love another child is:
Empowering. Miraculous. Beautiful.
There are many adoptive families blogs I read and enjoy. One that I've recently been reading is The Farmers Wife Tells All.
It turns out that this family who was on our agency's Ethiopia waiting list, has changed plans and decided to pursue a private Ugandan adoption instead. They are currently in country right now.
Take a look at The Farmers Wife Tells All blog and follow along.
But that is what inspires me about families who adopt.
Following these families who are willing to step out of their comfort zone and love another child is:
Empowering. Miraculous. Beautiful.
There are many adoptive families blogs I read and enjoy. One that I've recently been reading is The Farmers Wife Tells All.
It turns out that this family who was on our agency's Ethiopia waiting list, has changed plans and decided to pursue a private Ugandan adoption instead. They are currently in country right now.
Take a look at The Farmers Wife Tells All blog and follow along.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
April Number
I received our new monthly number yesterday, and I was thankful to see a little bit of movement. With all of the unknowns with the government right now and referral slow downs, each bit of movement is something to rejoice about.
For the month of April ou official number is: 71
For the month of April ou official number is: 71
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
One Year
Today marks one year since we began this adoption journey. I think back to where I was exactly one year ago today, and realize I am forever changed.
The story I believed I was living was that of a fertility challenged mom, hoping to bring a baby home. I believed that adoption was my backup to growing our family. Yet somehow I knew, even in the heartache of infertility, that God was working on me, and my heart. God had something so much bigger planned ahead.
I think back exactly one year ago today, and smile. I smile at what I know is in store for that girl. So much growth, joy, change, passion, strength, and newness to come over that year. Yes, and overwhelming heartache, challenges, and pain too.
Boy, what a year it has been.
A year I wouldn't change for anything.
One year ago today, I would think that we would be close to bringing our infant girl home from Ethiopia.
Now I know we may have another year ahead of us. And it may not be a baby coming home, but a toddler.
One year ago today, I believed I had experienced true heartache over infertility.
Now I know that my true heartache is grieving the faces of children all over the world who are sick, in pain, lonely, hungry, hopeless, and parentless. The sobs I have cried over those innocent children will never compare.
One year ago today life was about me.
Now I know what it feels like to die to myself, and find freedom in giving to others.
One year ago today I wanted another child to love.
Now I know that it is more than loving that child, and more about loving and advocating for millions.
Looking back in the rear view mirror I have never felt more alive than I have over this past year. A yo-yo of emotions, ups and downs, pitfalls, and unknowns.
But around every corner was God. His love surrounding this journey, guiding our path to our daughter.
Had I known the story of this past year ahead of time, I might have said "no." I might have been too scared, too stretched, and too uncomfortable.
I'm so thankful I didn't say no. I wouldn't trade this year for a hundred of not knowing what I know now. Yes, forever changed and so grateful for this journey.
Thank you to all my family and friends for holding my hand over this past year. I couldn't have done it without you.
The story I believed I was living was that of a fertility challenged mom, hoping to bring a baby home. I believed that adoption was my backup to growing our family. Yet somehow I knew, even in the heartache of infertility, that God was working on me, and my heart. God had something so much bigger planned ahead.
I think back exactly one year ago today, and smile. I smile at what I know is in store for that girl. So much growth, joy, change, passion, strength, and newness to come over that year. Yes, and overwhelming heartache, challenges, and pain too.
Boy, what a year it has been.
A year I wouldn't change for anything.
One year ago today, I would think that we would be close to bringing our infant girl home from Ethiopia.
Now I know we may have another year ahead of us. And it may not be a baby coming home, but a toddler.
One year ago today, I believed I had experienced true heartache over infertility.
Now I know that my true heartache is grieving the faces of children all over the world who are sick, in pain, lonely, hungry, hopeless, and parentless. The sobs I have cried over those innocent children will never compare.
One year ago today life was about me.
Now I know what it feels like to die to myself, and find freedom in giving to others.
One year ago today I wanted another child to love.
Now I know that it is more than loving that child, and more about loving and advocating for millions.
Looking back in the rear view mirror I have never felt more alive than I have over this past year. A yo-yo of emotions, ups and downs, pitfalls, and unknowns.
But around every corner was God. His love surrounding this journey, guiding our path to our daughter.
Had I known the story of this past year ahead of time, I might have said "no." I might have been too scared, too stretched, and too uncomfortable.
I'm so thankful I didn't say no. I wouldn't trade this year for a hundred of not knowing what I know now. Yes, forever changed and so grateful for this journey.
Thank you to all my family and friends for holding my hand over this past year. I couldn't have done it without you.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Pregnancy and adoption
Someone told me this weekend that basically I'm "pregnant" right now in that we are in our fourth month on the waiting list. I never really thought of it that way, but we have an estimated 5-8 months left of waiting for our referral. Hopefully those months of waiting fly by!
The more I consider it, the more I'm amazed at the similarities this adoption journey has to those of my experiences being pregnant with Oliver. In the beginning of both my pregnancy and adoption I wanted a baby.....then it evolved to wanting the baby I am "pregnant" with. Feeling the indescribable bond to that little life that you haven't even seen yet.
But knowing the whole time that they are there...and that they are yours.
Although the physical part of being pregnant is challenging.....morning sickness, headaches, getting really huge, pain and discomfort, it doesn't even come close to the longing I feel for my girl in Ethiopia.
The aching in my heart at times is so consuming and genuine for this little one. See, there is real pain involved in adoption too!
When you are physically pregnant, the outside world knows you are preparing for your new addition. That a new life will be joining you, and changing you and your family forever. It's hard to show the outside world how you feel in your heart with adoption.
So, I'm showing off my "ultrasound" picture.......
And telling the world how I'm feeling these days:
The more I consider it, the more I'm amazed at the similarities this adoption journey has to those of my experiences being pregnant with Oliver. In the beginning of both my pregnancy and adoption I wanted a baby.....then it evolved to wanting the baby I am "pregnant" with. Feeling the indescribable bond to that little life that you haven't even seen yet.
But knowing the whole time that they are there...and that they are yours.
Although the physical part of being pregnant is challenging.....morning sickness, headaches, getting really huge, pain and discomfort, it doesn't even come close to the longing I feel for my girl in Ethiopia.
The aching in my heart at times is so consuming and genuine for this little one. See, there is real pain involved in adoption too!
When you are physically pregnant, the outside world knows you are preparing for your new addition. That a new life will be joining you, and changing you and your family forever. It's hard to show the outside world how you feel in your heart with adoption.
So, I'm showing off my "ultrasound" picture.......
And telling the world how I'm feeling these days:
Friday, March 18, 2011
Official Number.....
It was a surprise for me to see so much movement this month! So happy to know that children are still coming into families despite everything that has been going on.
Our official March number is:
Our official March number is:
Thursday, March 17, 2011
The Latest.....
This past week I have found myself walking around with a bit of a heavy heart. I have spent hours thinking about the "what ifs" and contemplating what our family would do if our adoption was delayed by years.
Everyone's sweet emails, texts, and words of support have been so appreciated! Thank you for lifting me up when I have been feeling a bit down.
This morning I woke up and made the decision to give all my worries away. Just as God holds each of us, he holds our little girl in Ethiopia. A little girl who's face I haven't seen, but grow to love more and more each day. There is so much comfort for me in knowing that God is so much bigger than any of the obstacles we will face in this journey.
And with that I found even more encouragement. Here is the latest from our adoption agency.
Ethiopia Program Update
As you know, over the past week AGCI has been working in collaboration with Joint Council, other licensed Adoption Service Providers in Ethiopia and the US Department of State to get clarity on the proposed changes instigated by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs that would have drastically reduced the number of adoptions processed by their office.
We have spent the entirety of this week and last connecting with our own Foreign Staff, participating in caucus calls led by Joint Council and the US Department of State, and independently collaborating with other Adoption Service Providers to get clear and accurate information concerning this matter. Your grace and patience has been so appreciated during this time! What we know as facts are:
MOWA posted a notice indicating as of March 10th they would be reducing the number of adoptions processed through their office to 5 cases a day.
Within days of this announcement, the director of MOWA and several other staff members from the ministry have been terminated.
Today we want to update you on the feedback we received yesterday from our foreign staff in Ethiopia, which was confirmed in a discussion with our adoption colleagues in a Joint Council caucus call later in the day.
At this time, all Foreign Staff on the ground in Ethiopia are reporting that MOWA has completed their staffing changes and are now currently working at full capacity to complete those adoption cases currently re-scheduled or assigned a court appointment through the courts of Addis Ababa. Our staff believe this to be around 800 cases they are working at full force to complete with no restrictions on the number of cases processed each day. This is great news! We are thrilled to hear these drastic changes do not seem to be going into full effect.
We are also pleased to report that for new cases moving forward; it appears the original changes proposed by MOWA will not be implemented to the degree of 5 cases a day. At this time it is unknown whether or not MOWA will issue a formal statement regarding how they will process cases in the future, but from all discussions it will not be a drastic decrease from before. Through the continued work, meetings, and advocacy of many Foreign Staff members in Ethiopia, it appears any future changes within the case processing for MOWA will avoid sweeping and disproportionate alterations to the number of cases processed each day. Rather, the hope is that MOWA, Joint Council, Adoption Service Providers, the US Department of State and other NGO organizations can come together to support the government of Ethiopia in strengthening the process for ethical adoptions to continue while also improving the general social structures to assist with family preservation in Ethiopia. This plan was acknowledged in the recent posting by the US State Department this morning at http://adoption.state.gov/news/ethiopia.html. We understand the US Department of State cannot issue a formal statement without MOWA issuing a retraction. Based on the information we are receiving, MOWA is concentrating on processing the current adoptions and the new staff is not focused on numbers, but doing their jobs.
AGCI and our trusted colleagues look forward to collaborating to ensure adoptions move forward with the highest level of transparency possible. It is our commitment to carefully, ethically, and mindfully complete the adoption process on every level for orphaned children. Our hope is that as we do this in collaboration with other licensed agencies, we can also help to eliminate future concerns by MOWA and continue to build trust between their office and the adoption community at large.
Despite all this talk and discussion about proposed changes, we want to share with you some highlights from just the past two weeks in our program. Even in the midst of all these proposed changes we have seen things move in positive directions:
7 children were referred to their forever families (wait time for a referral for our most recently placed families was approximately 10 months for an infant boy and for an infant girl)
9 families and children were issued their first official court date
3 families and children were approved at a rescheduled court appointment
1 family and child was approved on their first scheduled court appointment
9 families and 10 children were cleared by the US Embassy and invited to travel to Ethiopia to complete their final immigration visa appointment and bring their children.
2 children have returned home with their forever families.
As you can see from above, our attention over the past week and this week has been not only on gathering information on this issue but also on processing adoptions for many of the children at Hannah’s Hope. We will be calling each of you to check in for your monthly updates, paperwork calls, and to connect with those of you who are already referred and in the court process.
We want to encourage you all and to share that Ethiopia is still an active adoption program! We are so blessed to be looking back at all these wonderful moments and see God’s hand at work in the stories and lives of these children He loves. Thank you for your continued passion and dedication. We look forward to all the wonderful moments yet to come as we continue to serve in Ethiopia!
Doesn't that sound promising for the millions of children in Ethiopia waiting to find their forever families? Continue praying with me for these children and for the government of Ethiopia.
As soon as I find out our new monthly waiting list number, I will post it!
Everyone's sweet emails, texts, and words of support have been so appreciated! Thank you for lifting me up when I have been feeling a bit down.
This morning I woke up and made the decision to give all my worries away. Just as God holds each of us, he holds our little girl in Ethiopia. A little girl who's face I haven't seen, but grow to love more and more each day. There is so much comfort for me in knowing that God is so much bigger than any of the obstacles we will face in this journey.
And with that I found even more encouragement. Here is the latest from our adoption agency.
Ethiopia Program Update
As you know, over the past week AGCI has been working in collaboration with Joint Council, other licensed Adoption Service Providers in Ethiopia and the US Department of State to get clarity on the proposed changes instigated by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs that would have drastically reduced the number of adoptions processed by their office.
We have spent the entirety of this week and last connecting with our own Foreign Staff, participating in caucus calls led by Joint Council and the US Department of State, and independently collaborating with other Adoption Service Providers to get clear and accurate information concerning this matter. Your grace and patience has been so appreciated during this time! What we know as facts are:
MOWA posted a notice indicating as of March 10th they would be reducing the number of adoptions processed through their office to 5 cases a day.
Within days of this announcement, the director of MOWA and several other staff members from the ministry have been terminated.
Today we want to update you on the feedback we received yesterday from our foreign staff in Ethiopia, which was confirmed in a discussion with our adoption colleagues in a Joint Council caucus call later in the day.
At this time, all Foreign Staff on the ground in Ethiopia are reporting that MOWA has completed their staffing changes and are now currently working at full capacity to complete those adoption cases currently re-scheduled or assigned a court appointment through the courts of Addis Ababa. Our staff believe this to be around 800 cases they are working at full force to complete with no restrictions on the number of cases processed each day. This is great news! We are thrilled to hear these drastic changes do not seem to be going into full effect.
We are also pleased to report that for new cases moving forward; it appears the original changes proposed by MOWA will not be implemented to the degree of 5 cases a day. At this time it is unknown whether or not MOWA will issue a formal statement regarding how they will process cases in the future, but from all discussions it will not be a drastic decrease from before. Through the continued work, meetings, and advocacy of many Foreign Staff members in Ethiopia, it appears any future changes within the case processing for MOWA will avoid sweeping and disproportionate alterations to the number of cases processed each day. Rather, the hope is that MOWA, Joint Council, Adoption Service Providers, the US Department of State and other NGO organizations can come together to support the government of Ethiopia in strengthening the process for ethical adoptions to continue while also improving the general social structures to assist with family preservation in Ethiopia. This plan was acknowledged in the recent posting by the US State Department this morning at http://adoption.state.gov/news/ethiopia.html. We understand the US Department of State cannot issue a formal statement without MOWA issuing a retraction. Based on the information we are receiving, MOWA is concentrating on processing the current adoptions and the new staff is not focused on numbers, but doing their jobs.
AGCI and our trusted colleagues look forward to collaborating to ensure adoptions move forward with the highest level of transparency possible. It is our commitment to carefully, ethically, and mindfully complete the adoption process on every level for orphaned children. Our hope is that as we do this in collaboration with other licensed agencies, we can also help to eliminate future concerns by MOWA and continue to build trust between their office and the adoption community at large.
Despite all this talk and discussion about proposed changes, we want to share with you some highlights from just the past two weeks in our program. Even in the midst of all these proposed changes we have seen things move in positive directions:
7 children were referred to their forever families (wait time for a referral for our most recently placed families was approximately 10 months for an infant boy and for an infant girl)
9 families and children were issued their first official court date
3 families and children were approved at a rescheduled court appointment
1 family and child was approved on their first scheduled court appointment
9 families and 10 children were cleared by the US Embassy and invited to travel to Ethiopia to complete their final immigration visa appointment and bring their children.
2 children have returned home with their forever families.
As you can see from above, our attention over the past week and this week has been not only on gathering information on this issue but also on processing adoptions for many of the children at Hannah’s Hope. We will be calling each of you to check in for your monthly updates, paperwork calls, and to connect with those of you who are already referred and in the court process.
We want to encourage you all and to share that Ethiopia is still an active adoption program! We are so blessed to be looking back at all these wonderful moments and see God’s hand at work in the stories and lives of these children He loves. Thank you for your continued passion and dedication. We look forward to all the wonderful moments yet to come as we continue to serve in Ethiopia!
Doesn't that sound promising for the millions of children in Ethiopia waiting to find their forever families? Continue praying with me for these children and for the government of Ethiopia.
As soon as I find out our new monthly waiting list number, I will post it!
Friday, March 11, 2011
A Call To Action
Please spread this news to your friends, family, church, etc. As I checked the petition last, only 32,000 have signed the so far.
Please sign this petition to encourage the Ethiopian Ministry of Women's, Children's, and Youth Affairs to reconsider its new policy to review only five adoption applications each day. 250,000 signatures are needed this weekend.
MOWA has implemented this new policy change so that it may spend more time reviewing each file and focusing on the children who are not eligible for adoption. Despite MOWA's good intentions, this new policy significantly harms the very children it seeks to protect.
Impact on Orphans: On a conference call this morning, the U.S. State Department said that MOWA now has 800 - 1,000 files pending, and confirmed that parents with open court files should expect a 12-month delay, with file reviews cut back to 5 per day. With an average of 20 files approved each day prior to this policy, this slowdown will have a snowball effect. By April, the file backlog will be 1,300+. By the end of the year, the backlog will be over 4,000, unless families begin to drop out of the Ethiopian adoption program (which is likely to happen at alarming rates). At least one agency is saying that children who are ethically eligible for adoption may now expect to wait in institutions over five years after a family has offered to provide a loving home.
What to expect if this new policy remains in place: it will be a difference of bringing a baby home at six months old, to instead bringing a child home at 5 years old. Spending that many years in institutional care will have a profound negative impact on these children for the rest of their lives, and many children who are otherwise eligible for adoption will never have a forever family. This new policy will also jeopardize the ability of adoption service providers to continue their donation of orphan care and family preservation assistance to the 1.2 million vulnerable individuals who were helped in 2010 (beyond the 4,000 children who were adopted), and will overburden already struggling orphanages, who will begin to turn away children who need help because they have no beds available.
Note: as foreign adoptions in Ethiopia have increased (to the U.S., from virtually none in 1990 to 1,724 in 2008), infant mortality has decreased from 12% in 1990 to 7% in 2008 and under-5 (including infant) mortality has decreased from 21% in 1990 to 11% in 2008 (see U.S. Department of State statistics and UNICEF report). Intuitively, there is some correlation between these numbers, as orphanages have had more room and resources available to care for the most vulnerable children.
(Much) Better Alternatives: The adoption community absolutely supports taking steps to ensure that each child is protected and every adoption is ethical as well as the best available option for the child. There are better ways to do this, however, the most obvious being to increase resources rather than decrease reviews. If MOWA needs to increase its personnel tenfold to continue to thoroughly and timely review files, it may charge a file processing fee to cover the costs accordingly (significant processing fees are already paid by adoptive parents to the state and U.S. government). This fee could not begin to be as much as it will cost families to pay for institutional care of their child for years, and it could be used to help fund in-depth file investigation as well as ongoing care for the children who remain in orphanages. This alternative would help ensure that children who are ethically eligible for adoption are brought home sooner rather than later, and that their situations are made better rather than worse by the system that is supposed to be helping them.
How You May Help: We are all called by God to “Defend the cause of the fatherless” (Isaiah 1:17). We pray that God through us will change the hearts of these leaders. Please:
1. Sign the petition to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.
2. Share. Please send this Call to Action to family members, other adoptive parents, and everyone you know! Post, forward and share your adoption stories via Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. Include it in your email blasts, church bulletin, church website, and announce it from the pulpit THIS SUNDAY, March 13th.
We need to get at least 250,000 people to sign this petition by Monday. As our agency wrote, "If you have been adopted by God, and understand the unmerited favor and love that His adoption delivers, PLEASE TAKE ONE MINUTE to answer His call to be a voice for the voiceless, to defend the cause of these Ethiopian orphans."
Shared via Withlovingarms.blogspot.com, an adoptive mama.
Please sign this petition to encourage the Ethiopian Ministry of Women's, Children's, and Youth Affairs to reconsider its new policy to review only five adoption applications each day. 250,000 signatures are needed this weekend.
MOWA has implemented this new policy change so that it may spend more time reviewing each file and focusing on the children who are not eligible for adoption. Despite MOWA's good intentions, this new policy significantly harms the very children it seeks to protect.
Impact on Orphans: On a conference call this morning, the U.S. State Department said that MOWA now has 800 - 1,000 files pending, and confirmed that parents with open court files should expect a 12-month delay, with file reviews cut back to 5 per day. With an average of 20 files approved each day prior to this policy, this slowdown will have a snowball effect. By April, the file backlog will be 1,300+. By the end of the year, the backlog will be over 4,000, unless families begin to drop out of the Ethiopian adoption program (which is likely to happen at alarming rates). At least one agency is saying that children who are ethically eligible for adoption may now expect to wait in institutions over five years after a family has offered to provide a loving home.
What to expect if this new policy remains in place: it will be a difference of bringing a baby home at six months old, to instead bringing a child home at 5 years old. Spending that many years in institutional care will have a profound negative impact on these children for the rest of their lives, and many children who are otherwise eligible for adoption will never have a forever family. This new policy will also jeopardize the ability of adoption service providers to continue their donation of orphan care and family preservation assistance to the 1.2 million vulnerable individuals who were helped in 2010 (beyond the 4,000 children who were adopted), and will overburden already struggling orphanages, who will begin to turn away children who need help because they have no beds available.
Note: as foreign adoptions in Ethiopia have increased (to the U.S., from virtually none in 1990 to 1,724 in 2008), infant mortality has decreased from 12% in 1990 to 7% in 2008 and under-5 (including infant) mortality has decreased from 21% in 1990 to 11% in 2008 (see U.S. Department of State statistics and UNICEF report). Intuitively, there is some correlation between these numbers, as orphanages have had more room and resources available to care for the most vulnerable children.
(Much) Better Alternatives: The adoption community absolutely supports taking steps to ensure that each child is protected and every adoption is ethical as well as the best available option for the child. There are better ways to do this, however, the most obvious being to increase resources rather than decrease reviews. If MOWA needs to increase its personnel tenfold to continue to thoroughly and timely review files, it may charge a file processing fee to cover the costs accordingly (significant processing fees are already paid by adoptive parents to the state and U.S. government). This fee could not begin to be as much as it will cost families to pay for institutional care of their child for years, and it could be used to help fund in-depth file investigation as well as ongoing care for the children who remain in orphanages. This alternative would help ensure that children who are ethically eligible for adoption are brought home sooner rather than later, and that their situations are made better rather than worse by the system that is supposed to be helping them.
How You May Help: We are all called by God to “Defend the cause of the fatherless” (Isaiah 1:17). We pray that God through us will change the hearts of these leaders. Please:
1. Sign the petition to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia.
2. Share. Please send this Call to Action to family members, other adoptive parents, and everyone you know! Post, forward and share your adoption stories via Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. Include it in your email blasts, church bulletin, church website, and announce it from the pulpit THIS SUNDAY, March 13th.
We need to get at least 250,000 people to sign this petition by Monday. As our agency wrote, "If you have been adopted by God, and understand the unmerited favor and love that His adoption delivers, PLEASE TAKE ONE MINUTE to answer His call to be a voice for the voiceless, to defend the cause of these Ethiopian orphans."
Shared via Withlovingarms.blogspot.com, an adoptive mama.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Emergency Campaign For Ethiopia
Many in the adoptive community have heard this past week of an article that sent shock waves through our core.
Read it here.
I am stunned by the recent news from the Ethiopian government that they are decreasing adoptions by up to 90 percent, effective this week. Not only is this a scary time for our family, and the many other families waiting to bring their children home into a safe, permanent, loving family, but this decision will have severe and lasting impact on the children of Ethiopia. It is my understanding that the Ethiopian government receives approximately $2-3,000 per adoption. Where money is exchanged, the chance for corruption may occur.
I understand that the Ethiopian government feels compelled to make such a drastic change in their policy in order to implement ethical and legal adoptions and to prevent child trafficking. I would feel devastated to think that somewhere down the line my child was tricked into being placed for adoption. But, I feel that the individuals involved in the trafficking should be punished, not the entire population of children who need a permanent home. These children may end up institutionalized for up to 7 years. Not only will this decision impact children, but hotels, restaurant owners, tourist events, and the marketplace. A drastic cut from 4,000 adoptions worldwide a year to only 500.
Will you help? Here is how:
Click here to go to their website which I have cut and pasted below:
1) Sign the petition to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Meles Zenawi – and pass it on!
2) Have you adopted from Ethiopia? Please send us up to 3 photos and 50 words or less with what you would like the Ministry to know about your child – we’ll compile the information and send a book to the Ministry of Woman’s, Children’s and Youth Affairs. Send your photos and stories to advocate@jointcouncil.org by Sunday, March 12, 2011 to be included. Please note that sending photos and stories gives Joint Council unrestricted right to use the information you provide.
3) Share…Please send this Call to Action to family members, other adoptive parents, and everyone you know! Post, forward and share your adoption stories via Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. Make sure you include us in your posts so we can all hear your stories! Here’s links to our pages: Facebook, Twitter and our blog.
4) Stay informed: Get up-to-date information regarding the situation in Ethiopia by signing up to receive information from us: click here to do so, make sure you choose “country and issues specific information” and “Ethiopia.” And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and our blog
5) Help ensure our advocacy can continue: Joint Council is a non-profit and receives no government funding. Please join us in ensuring more children live in safe, permanent and loving families. Donate today!
PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, PRAY!!!
As you can imagine this is a huge blow. It is not 100% at this point so please pray with us for the children that could be affected. This is devastating news if this is to come about. We don't even know what this would mean for our adoption process.
Please share this post with friends and family, facebook, twitter, etc.
Read it here.
I am stunned by the recent news from the Ethiopian government that they are decreasing adoptions by up to 90 percent, effective this week. Not only is this a scary time for our family, and the many other families waiting to bring their children home into a safe, permanent, loving family, but this decision will have severe and lasting impact on the children of Ethiopia. It is my understanding that the Ethiopian government receives approximately $2-3,000 per adoption. Where money is exchanged, the chance for corruption may occur.
I understand that the Ethiopian government feels compelled to make such a drastic change in their policy in order to implement ethical and legal adoptions and to prevent child trafficking. I would feel devastated to think that somewhere down the line my child was tricked into being placed for adoption. But, I feel that the individuals involved in the trafficking should be punished, not the entire population of children who need a permanent home. These children may end up institutionalized for up to 7 years. Not only will this decision impact children, but hotels, restaurant owners, tourist events, and the marketplace. A drastic cut from 4,000 adoptions worldwide a year to only 500.
Will you help? Here is how:
Click here to go to their website which I have cut and pasted below:
1) Sign the petition to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Meles Zenawi – and pass it on!
2) Have you adopted from Ethiopia? Please send us up to 3 photos and 50 words or less with what you would like the Ministry to know about your child – we’ll compile the information and send a book to the Ministry of Woman’s, Children’s and Youth Affairs. Send your photos and stories to advocate@jointcouncil.org by Sunday, March 12, 2011 to be included. Please note that sending photos and stories gives Joint Council unrestricted right to use the information you provide.
3) Share…Please send this Call to Action to family members, other adoptive parents, and everyone you know! Post, forward and share your adoption stories via Facebook, Twitter, and blogs. Make sure you include us in your posts so we can all hear your stories! Here’s links to our pages: Facebook, Twitter and our blog.
4) Stay informed: Get up-to-date information regarding the situation in Ethiopia by signing up to receive information from us: click here to do so, make sure you choose “country and issues specific information” and “Ethiopia.” And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and our blog
5) Help ensure our advocacy can continue: Joint Council is a non-profit and receives no government funding. Please join us in ensuring more children live in safe, permanent and loving families. Donate today!
PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, PRAY, PRAY!!!
As you can imagine this is a huge blow. It is not 100% at this point so please pray with us for the children that could be affected. This is devastating news if this is to come about. We don't even know what this would mean for our adoption process.
Please share this post with friends and family, facebook, twitter, etc.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
February number
There wasn't a whole lot of movement on the adoption front this month. I'll admit I was a tad disappointed to only move down two slots from our last waiting list number. I was really hoping for a number in the 80's, but of course I am happy with any movement. Our official February number is 90.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Today.
Today I am feeling antsy.
I want my new waiting list number.
I never would have guessed this monthly number would consume my thoughts the way it does. I think about how much closer it brings our family to seeing her.
And how in some weird way it makes her feel real.
Tangible.
I imagine her patiently waiting for her parents to speed along the list and find her.
Of course I don't know her face, her name, her story yet. But I hurt for those things every day.
I mentioned to Nate how much harder i thought the wait would be for us once we saw her. How much more i might want to hold her and kiss her. He smiled and kindly reminded me that the hard part will be holding her, loving her, bonding with her and then having to leave her and return home without her.
He is right.
Much harder days are in store.
Please say a prayer today for my daughter. Pray for her birthmother. Pray for their safety and health. And please pray for her adoptive Mama too, who is eager to know her.
I want my new waiting list number.
I never would have guessed this monthly number would consume my thoughts the way it does. I think about how much closer it brings our family to seeing her.
And how in some weird way it makes her feel real.
Tangible.
I imagine her patiently waiting for her parents to speed along the list and find her.
Of course I don't know her face, her name, her story yet. But I hurt for those things every day.
I mentioned to Nate how much harder i thought the wait would be for us once we saw her. How much more i might want to hold her and kiss her. He smiled and kindly reminded me that the hard part will be holding her, loving her, bonding with her and then having to leave her and return home without her.
He is right.
Much harder days are in store.
Please say a prayer today for my daughter. Pray for her birthmother. Pray for their safety and health. And please pray for her adoptive Mama too, who is eager to know her.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Friday, January 21, 2011
Friday, January 7, 2011
Update!
We have our new number for this month. I will admit I was hoping for a bigger drop, but I am thankful to report six other girls have been referred to their families this month which means we are number ( yep, you guessed it!) 92. I think the slower rate of referrals this month probably has something to do with the holidays.
Did everyone have a nice Christmas? Today is actually Ethiopian Christmas. Hopefully next year I will be celebrating it with my sweet precious girl in my arms!
My birthday is around Christmas so I always feel super spoiled this time of year. Can you believe I received the awesome scarf from this post? And adorable nursery art from this shop. And my all time favorite necklace from here. And my friend surprised me with a beautiful necklace from here. I'm spoiled! I hope your holiday was filled with love, friendship and family.....and an abundance of His blessings!
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