Anybody else feel busy? It just seems like even though Christmas day has passed, I still have tons to do. Not the least of which will still be 'undecorating' for Christmas. It's just not a ton of fun getting all the boxes out of the attic which requires a step ladder for us. Oh well, it can wait for the weekend... I always think we'll be more organized about it this year, and then somewhere about half way through, I get tired and just start shoving stuff where it will fit to get done faster. Oh well.
Thanks to those of you I've gotten to be in touch with lately. You all remain in my prayers.
Everyone have a great night. It's getting late and I want to try and at least start the book I got for Christmas tonight.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Well, Christmas day is winding down fast, and tomorrow it will be back to the grind. It was a good day, just staying here at home. We do miss our boy, but he got a few presents too this year. Just keep praying that our paperwork gets submitted asap after the embassy reopens on the 2nd.
Also pray that some of the mess we're still dealing with gets resolved. As much as I can be a procrastinator about some things, I hate just letting problems linger on which they'll probably have to do until after all the holidays as well, since most of the folks who need to do the talking are in and out until then. It's still just so unbelievable to me some of the stuff that has happened to us and to too many others.
I do hope you all had a great Christmas, and continue to celebrate the joy Christ brings.
-Tim
Also pray that some of the mess we're still dealing with gets resolved. As much as I can be a procrastinator about some things, I hate just letting problems linger on which they'll probably have to do until after all the holidays as well, since most of the folks who need to do the talking are in and out until then. It's still just so unbelievable to me some of the stuff that has happened to us and to too many others.
I do hope you all had a great Christmas, and continue to celebrate the joy Christ brings.
-Tim
Monday, December 24, 2007
Merry Christmas!
I'll be brief as I think I hear Santa on the rooftop already, but I did just want to say Merry Christmas to each of you. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday. This will be our second Christmas since our referral to not have Joseph home, but we know he is ours, and that helps. I'm still praying for all of you still waiting and for those who are not. I know adjustment can be tough sometimes too.
Again, Merry Christmas.
Galatians 4:4-5
Again, Merry Christmas.
Galatians 4:4-5
Thursday, December 20, 2007
A couple of items tonight...
First things first, our boy has his passport!!! It was done today. This was the last thing needed to be able to submit to the Embassy for 2nd DNA authorization. The Embassy seems to be taking an extra long break, so we can't submit until the 2nd at the earliest, but at least everyhing seems to be ready.
Next, please pray for a work friend of mine also adopting from Guatemala. She found out about a KO today after over 9 weeks in PGN. Pray it can be corrected quickly to get her back on track. (She's with a different agency so maybe she won't hit our bumps.)
As to my post last night, please do heed my warnings about getting clear answers and clarifications, especially if you are working with the same people we have been. Don't be afraid to keep asking. That is part of what they are there for and are paid to do.
And last, if you are ever a family who just needs to not feel alone in being frustrated, you can always contact us. Many of you have our info through some outlet or another, but if you don't, let me know and I'll try to get in touch with you somehow. No, I'm not talking about a bash fest, just some encouragement to know that it's not always roses, and that is okay. I'll remind you that God is big enough to handle any anger or frustration we might have, even if it was with Him. If you don't want to take my word for it, read a little in the book of Psalms or perhaps even Job. Trust me, God can take it.
I hope you are all well. -T
Next, please pray for a work friend of mine also adopting from Guatemala. She found out about a KO today after over 9 weeks in PGN. Pray it can be corrected quickly to get her back on track. (She's with a different agency so maybe she won't hit our bumps.)
As to my post last night, please do heed my warnings about getting clear answers and clarifications, especially if you are working with the same people we have been. Don't be afraid to keep asking. That is part of what they are there for and are paid to do.
And last, if you are ever a family who just needs to not feel alone in being frustrated, you can always contact us. Many of you have our info through some outlet or another, but if you don't, let me know and I'll try to get in touch with you somehow. No, I'm not talking about a bash fest, just some encouragement to know that it's not always roses, and that is okay. I'll remind you that God is big enough to handle any anger or frustration we might have, even if it was with Him. If you don't want to take my word for it, read a little in the book of Psalms or perhaps even Job. Trust me, God can take it.
I hope you are all well. -T
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
The Good:
My little boy has a new last name and it's MINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is absolutely freaking awesome news and so exciting to me. (Translation: they did get the new birth certificate completed.)
The Bad:
Even though the above was done on Monday according to the update, they still haven't gotten the passport yet, even though this was probably the easier of the two to handle. It did have to come after the first though, so not too big a deal in itself.
Then, there's the ugly:
The ugly is that we're dealing with the same old people, and therefore some of the same old struggles. Even though they explicitly told us one thing multiple times during this process, here at the end they are trying to change their tune now. I don't know why I'm surprised given how many times it happened to us, but I have to say I still was. There will come a time when I have more to say, but for now, just be sure you confirm and reconfirm anything you were told, preferably in writing. Even then, they might try to change it on you. If something isn't clearly answered, ask until it is. You deserve it. I think I've mentioned before about this being a business to most everyone but the parents. As a parent, do yourself a favor and expect the same from them (honesty, clarity, respect for example) that you would from anyone you would do any kind of business with.
It will work out, but it's a shame that this came to light on a day I'd otherwise so enjoy.
My little boy has a new last name and it's MINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is absolutely freaking awesome news and so exciting to me. (Translation: they did get the new birth certificate completed.)
The Bad:
Even though the above was done on Monday according to the update, they still haven't gotten the passport yet, even though this was probably the easier of the two to handle. It did have to come after the first though, so not too big a deal in itself.
Then, there's the ugly:
The ugly is that we're dealing with the same old people, and therefore some of the same old struggles. Even though they explicitly told us one thing multiple times during this process, here at the end they are trying to change their tune now. I don't know why I'm surprised given how many times it happened to us, but I have to say I still was. There will come a time when I have more to say, but for now, just be sure you confirm and reconfirm anything you were told, preferably in writing. Even then, they might try to change it on you. If something isn't clearly answered, ask until it is. You deserve it. I think I've mentioned before about this being a business to most everyone but the parents. As a parent, do yourself a favor and expect the same from them (honesty, clarity, respect for example) that you would from anyone you would do any kind of business with.
It will work out, but it's a shame that this came to light on a day I'd otherwise so enjoy.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Yes, We're OUT OF PGN...
I know you knew that already, but it still feels good to say it. It really does. Can I just say thanks again to all of you who support us? You all are totally awesome. Since I got all preachy last night, I'll go easy on you all and post some pics tonight.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
"Remember"
I've been kicking around these thoughts for a while now as I said before, but perhaps now more than ever is an appropriate time for this post, with a very large glimmer of hope on the horizon.
One of the things people so often say as they look at our story, or in talking to anyone with a difficult adoption, is that 'whenever this finally does end, you'll forget all about the struggles you're having now'.
Let me stop right now and make it extremely clear. First, I'm not really sure that's true, and secondly, I'm pretty sure I don't ever want it to be.
Now, I'm not offended by that statement, or saying it's a bad thing to say even. I know what they mean. However, I do want to reexamine things a bit.
Truth be told, no one likes to feel the slightest discomfort, much less pain, and whatever we can do to hide it, ignore it, cover it up, or make it go away, we'll do, even just 'forgetting it'. Sometimes though, we do just need to feel it. It is in our pain and weakness that Christ can make us strong (or more appropriately perhaps become our strength). Here's some words from a song by Carolyn Arends called 'Not Alone' that express this prettty well:
There are friends who offer comfort, and they mean well
But sometimes it’s like salt inside a wound
And it’s good to speak of heaven, when it feels more like hell
But we ask our hearts for healing much too soon
There’s a Man of Sorrows, acquainted with our grief
And He’s done His share of crying in the night with no relief
There isn’t any heartache that He has not known
So we are not alone.
(You could also check out 'Fragile' by Carolyn Arends also for some similar thoughts.)
Before I get even further off my original course though, let me get back to saying that Deuteronomy Chapter 8 has been one of my favorite passages in the Bible since college. No, I'm not sure how or why I really came across it, but I first really remember it having meaning for me when my former youth minister asked me to do a devotion for the youth kids at a lock-in I had come home to help with.
Contextually, it is before the Israelites enter the promised land. And the Lord takes a moment to say 'remember'. To save space and typing, you can read the passage here. I really hope you'll take the time to do so.
As far as commentary, I guess I'd just remind you that as verse 2 says: Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way...to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.
Whatever your journey has been or still is, the Lord does have a purpose for you. If or when your adoption or any other painful journey is complete, be sure you read further and don't fall into the trap of thinking your prosperity or well being is due to your own power or ability.
Don't forget the struggles you've gone through. Remember them and praise the Lord for his goodness through them. He was and is with you.
It will be good for you, and for those around you.
I do have to say thanks in this to the many, many special families we've met, who continue to cheer us on, long after their personal adoption struggles have ended. You all amaze me so much that you stick around, cringing, hoping, sighing, celebrating, and most importantly praying with us.
I hope this was coherent. I am a bit tired.
Know for those of you still hanging in there, I'm praying for you, too.
Thank you all again for reading.
One of the things people so often say as they look at our story, or in talking to anyone with a difficult adoption, is that 'whenever this finally does end, you'll forget all about the struggles you're having now'.
Let me stop right now and make it extremely clear. First, I'm not really sure that's true, and secondly, I'm pretty sure I don't ever want it to be.
Now, I'm not offended by that statement, or saying it's a bad thing to say even. I know what they mean. However, I do want to reexamine things a bit.
Truth be told, no one likes to feel the slightest discomfort, much less pain, and whatever we can do to hide it, ignore it, cover it up, or make it go away, we'll do, even just 'forgetting it'. Sometimes though, we do just need to feel it. It is in our pain and weakness that Christ can make us strong (or more appropriately perhaps become our strength). Here's some words from a song by Carolyn Arends called 'Not Alone' that express this prettty well:
There are friends who offer comfort, and they mean well
But sometimes it’s like salt inside a wound
And it’s good to speak of heaven, when it feels more like hell
But we ask our hearts for healing much too soon
There’s a Man of Sorrows, acquainted with our grief
And He’s done His share of crying in the night with no relief
There isn’t any heartache that He has not known
So we are not alone.
(You could also check out 'Fragile' by Carolyn Arends also for some similar thoughts.)
Before I get even further off my original course though, let me get back to saying that Deuteronomy Chapter 8 has been one of my favorite passages in the Bible since college. No, I'm not sure how or why I really came across it, but I first really remember it having meaning for me when my former youth minister asked me to do a devotion for the youth kids at a lock-in I had come home to help with.
Contextually, it is before the Israelites enter the promised land. And the Lord takes a moment to say 'remember'. To save space and typing, you can read the passage here. I really hope you'll take the time to do so.
As far as commentary, I guess I'd just remind you that as verse 2 says: Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way...to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands.
Whatever your journey has been or still is, the Lord does have a purpose for you. If or when your adoption or any other painful journey is complete, be sure you read further and don't fall into the trap of thinking your prosperity or well being is due to your own power or ability.
Don't forget the struggles you've gone through. Remember them and praise the Lord for his goodness through them. He was and is with you.
It will be good for you, and for those around you.
I do have to say thanks in this to the many, many special families we've met, who continue to cheer us on, long after their personal adoption struggles have ended. You all amaze me so much that you stick around, cringing, hoping, sighing, celebrating, and most importantly praying with us.
I hope this was coherent. I am a bit tired.
Know for those of you still hanging in there, I'm praying for you, too.
Thank you all again for reading.
Update
Well, we think there's good news, but I'm still trying to remain a little reserved until I can know for sure our approval is actually in the hands of those who need to now finish this for us. Other than that, I'm not really sure what to say about the case. Therefore, I think I'm going to start a separate post with something else that's been on my mind lately, but I haven't been able to sit down and put 'on paper'.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
going insane...
round 2 is down as today was the rest of the birthday celebrations. it was fun, but we're going a bit insane around here. I'm nearly numb and nauseous from the anxiety of waiting and wondering. the worst may be that everyone else I tend to check in on seems to be in a similar state of not really hearing anything definite over the past few days/weeks. I'm still praying for you all as well.
there is some other stuff I'd like to discuss, but I'm not sure I have the energy and focus it would deserve. it also probably isn't in my personal best interest at this time, given my already greatly strained relationships with those we're working with in this process.
If you didn't happen to know, it seems a new adoption law did pass today in Guatemala. From first glance though, it doesn't really seem anyone knows much more than they did before about what all it might really mean going forward from here. There are tons of unanswered and unaddressed questions within it.
I am very torn, as on one hand, our process has shown me many dark sides of this adoption 'business' (for that is exactly what it is and nothing more to almost everyone involved but the parents). Some of you may not see it, but that doesn't mean it isn't there. Something has to change! However, I deeply love Guatemala and know there is great need there, and not just for the children themselves.
there is some other stuff I'd like to discuss, but I'm not sure I have the energy and focus it would deserve. it also probably isn't in my personal best interest at this time, given my already greatly strained relationships with those we're working with in this process.
If you didn't happen to know, it seems a new adoption law did pass today in Guatemala. From first glance though, it doesn't really seem anyone knows much more than they did before about what all it might really mean going forward from here. There are tons of unanswered and unaddressed questions within it.
I am very torn, as on one hand, our process has shown me many dark sides of this adoption 'business' (for that is exactly what it is and nothing more to almost everyone involved but the parents). Some of you may not see it, but that doesn't mean it isn't there. Something has to change! However, I deeply love Guatemala and know there is great need there, and not just for the children themselves.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Whew....
Round 1 down, several more (Christmas) to go. Yesterday morning we saw Santa and got a good pic. Then later, the B'day party was a success. It went great. The kids seemed to have fun, and we all survived it as well. (And no, Erin is not available for party planning unless of course there is mucho dinero involved.) I do have to say she had a fun plan. The house survived the event also. Now we see what the week will hold. I do hope you all are well. Here's a few pics of the day.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
15 Minutes of fame...
Tonight, the preschool choirs at church may have used theirs up already. They were definitely great. It was their Christmas mini-musical as they called it. They all dressed up in their cute pajamas as it was sort of themed around a good night story. My daughter sang great when she actually sang, but she was quite distracted for much of it also, but I couldn't be more proud. It was pretty funny though. Lots of questions of 'can I go hug mom/dad now?' in the middle of the songs, quite a bit of improv dancing, the classic 'Hi Mom', and my favorite of all, the threes decided spontaneously to do the wave. Yes, that's right, the wave. It was definitely fun to watch. I hope you all are doing well.
PGN
Toward the bottom of the blog I posted a couple of pics. One is a closer shot of the PGN building, and another is of 'the window', where the files are submitted and picked up. I pulled them off of another agency's blog. (Yes, sometimes I compare notes from other agencies or any other source I can get to. )
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Uncle...
I am one now. Congrats to my brother and sister-in-law. Also, I'm about ready to cry uncle in the long wait. Like I've been in a headlock what seems like forever, and they just want let go. I've had tons of thoughts to write, but not much energy to do so, and some of my more recent thoughts are probably better shared at a later date. Hope this finds you well, though I know some of you are still struggling as well. I am praying for you guys, too.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
