TenMex Connection

Who am I and Where have I been?

2011-02-09T19:23:00.004-06:00

Wow, can't believe it's been a year since I last posted, my how time flies. I'll try to be better for 2011. So here's a start.

Who I Am...

I am...a wife,daughter,sister, granddaughter, and friend.
I want...to gain financial independence so I can give more.
I have... a great family.
I wish...that I could snuggle up on the couch and read all day.
I hate...when movie producers and authors think they can't produce something great without using vulgar language.
I fear...not raising my children to follow the Lord.
I hear...songs and Scriptures in my mind.
I search...for creativity.
I wonder...what heaven will be like.
I regret...that I don't witness to others enough.
I love...when I have an aha moment.
I ache...for my children to have a closer relationship with Jesus.
I always...brush my teeth at least 3 times a day.
I usually...don't buy new clothes for myself.
I am not...athletic. Also, I am not good at doing my hair.
I dance...very seldom, another thing I'm not really good at.
I sing...ing the car when no one is with me.
I never...eat green peas or lima beans.
I sometimes... want to close out the world and escape under the covers!
I cry...too freaking easily.
I am not always...the best about sending cards on people's birthdays.
I lose...my cool when people are mean to the ones I love.
I am confused...as to how people can doubt that there is a God!
I need...at least 8 hours of sleep a night or I'm very cranky!
I should...be more intentional with keeping up long-distance friendships

2010-07-27T09:49:00.002-05:00

Carol
I am in an inservice about blogs and wikis and thought that I would add this to your blog please delete this later.

Memphis

2010-02-17T13:52:00.002-06:00

Today was our CIS interview for Hannah. It was intense right from the start. The office we were assigned to started on the attack right off. We didn't have an attorney with us at the beginning because the attorney in GA couldn't get in touch with the Memphis office until this morning. So we go in by ourselves and the officer immediately starts demanding to know how she got here and why we just hadn't adopted her already, and how could she be declared abandoned if we brought her here and have been caring for her. We could barely answer one of her questions before she was demanding an answer to another. Then she wanted all the paperwork from Mexico. The attorney finally showed up and started pointing out that those weren't necessary because we had a court order. When the officer stepped out of the room the attorney said that she has had trouble with her before. She was so rude, I told Jeff even the FBI wasn't that rude when they interviewed us. Finally, the officer said she was going to request more evidence and that we would have to turn in all the paperwork from Mexico. Then she went to talk to her supervisor. After about 15 minutes she came back and said the Mexican paperwork wouldn't be necessary and she would mail her decision to us. So now we wait. The lawyer said she has no grounds to deny approval, but she probably didn't want to do an about face with us sitting there, so she just said she would mail the decision. Even if she does deny us, we can appeal and go before the judge in Memphis. So let's pray she gets her "happy pill" and sends the approval so we don't have to take extra steps.

Prayer Request

2010-02-10T10:30:00.000-06:00

Some of you may know already that we received our interview appointment with immigration. The appointment date is next Wednesday, Feb. 17 at 7:30 a.m. in Memphis. This interview is for Hannah to get her approval for status as a legal permanent resident which then means we can do a TN adoption. It is vital that we get this approval.

Our lawyer has explained that the Memphis office can sometimes be difficult, but that she fully expects us to be approved. Since she resides in Georgia, it is cost prohibitive for her to attend the meeting. However she is contacting a friend who is a prominent immigration attorney in Memphis to see if he can represent us.

So here are my specific prayer requests that I would like to ask you to intercede on our behalf for:

1. That God hand picks and places the interviewer in position to hear our case.
2. Hannah doesn't have a Mexican Passport. Pray that will not create issues.
3. Pray for wisdom and guidance for Jeff and I as we answer questions.
4. Pray that the lawyer in Memphis will be available.
5. Most of all pray for us to walk out of there with approval!

We will probably no go in right at 7:30, so I can't tell you a specific time to pray. Once we go in it should only take 15-30 minutes.

New Order

2010-01-15T15:26:00.001-06:00

Jeff went to cout on Wednesday and we got our new Order with the new wording. Now we are just waiting for INS to set up the interview.

Long Time, No Post

2010-01-11T12:17:00.002-06:00

Okay, my friend Candace (yes, I am naming names) commented that she was disappointed that I have not blogged in a long time. I have been debating about keeping up with this blog or just letting it go. I can't seem to find much time and feel that I am doing too much with FB and a blog. But since Candace shamed me, I decided I would go ahead and post anyway.

On the adoption issue. We received an e-mail in December saying that the wording had changed on the Order we got back in May. So we have to get an amended Order with the new wording before we go to our Immigration Interview (no date has been set for that yet). This means we had to go back to our TN lawyer and get him to file the paper work which is now going to cost us more money. He filed the paperwork and the court date is set for this Wednesday. Jeff is going to court and I am going to Ft. Worth for work. The lawyer says it shouldn't be a big deal since we laid out everything in our original order. But you know how things go with us, so please pray.

I have one more week to wear this stupid boot on my foot. For those of you who don't know, I broke my foot three days before Christmas. Yesterday I didn't wear it around the house and I was severely chastised by my oldest child. She asked me why I was not wearing my boot. When I said, "I didn't want to.," she replied, "Mom, we all have to do things we don't want to do sometimes." I guess she's heard that before : )

Said daughter has started competition season. She is now a level 8 and doing fantastic. I had to miss her first meet, but will be there for the rest.

Youngest son starts basketball tomorrow. He was all gung ho until I reminded him last night. Then said, "I am not sure I am really into basketball anymore." I told him he had to try since I have already paid. His response, "Do I have to do the whole season?" Uggh what am I going to do with him?

Dearest hubby is still trying to adjust to life at Riverdale. He misses Oakland and the friendships he formed there. I keep praying that he will feel better about the situation.

So that's the updates. I'll try to be better about posting.

Frustrated

2009-09-23T12:30:00.002-05:00

We received letters from immigration stating that they will be sending us another letter with a date, time, and place to take Hannah to get fingerprinted. Did I mention that we got 4 letters in 4 separate envelopes telling us the same thing? Our tax dollars at work. Anyway, the only probably is that she has to have a Photo ID. All the options were out of the question because she's too young to drive, too young to join the military and get a military id, or a state issued photo identification. Oh, and the last option a Passport, yeah which we don't have because she came here on a Humanitarian Parole. So I e-mail our lawyers who now inform me that we should have been trying to get her a Mexican Passport all along. Nice to know now. And they advised us that the Embassy is not too friendly to adoptive parents, so it could take awhile. Well, of course it would. Nothing has gone quickly thus far. So in the meantime, I am trying to get a photo id from her school which will hopefully be acceptable.

Quote of theDay

2009-08-12T21:06:00.001-05:00

James has been having a rather negative outlook this evening. He says he can't do anything, Hannah has the good life and he's got nothing. On and on it goes. So I hear his daddy talking to him in the other room when all of the sudden James says, "I wish I had parents who understood sarcasm!" I had to hold my hand over my mouth to keep from laughing out loud. I thought, "What? You probably have two of the most sarcastic parents in all of Rutherford County."

So if anyone knows where to get parents who understand sarcasm please let me know!

Latest Adoption Update

2009-08-06T09:38:00.002-05:00

I e-mailed our attorney's office in Georgia to check on our status. See her response below.

We have confirmation that INS received the package, we are waiting for receipt notice from them and then a finger print
appointment for the child.

So I am not totally sure what that means, but hoping it means we are one step closer. I am guessing we will have to go the the airport for finger prints. That's much better than when Jeff and I had to go to the Rutherford County Jail and the Bedford County Jail booking area. That was an adventure.

Camp Rocks

2009-07-14T21:24:00.002-05:00

We went to camp last week and by we I mean the whole family. We had a great time. James convinced three other boys that white kitties with pink bows are cool. And Hannah loved OMC (Organized Mass Chaos).

My Testimony

2009-07-01T09:48:00.001-05:00

Maybe it’s because I just learned that David Ring will be speaking at our church on Sunday, July 12 (ya’ll should come), or maybe it’s the Esther Bible study I am in right now, but for some reason I feel that I am suppose to share my testimony. I have never really shared my testimony and I am sure some of this will even be a surprise to my husband. I am not very good at being open and transparent, so I hope that by writing this blog, I will begin to feel more adequate at sharing what the Lord has done for me. So this is going to be a little long, thanks for indulging me.

My Testimony
I grew up in church, but to some extent, I think I grew physically more than spiritually. I remember sitting in the pew thinking, “What is this guy talking about? I just don’t get it!” I wanted to even felt that I needed to get it. I just didn’t understand how God “talked” to you or how you talked to God.
Like most people during my college years I fell away from even going to church. Then I met my future husband. I envied him because he seemed so sure, not filled with doubts as I was. He knew Scripture, and he seemed to have an assurance that I didn’t. He didn’t live with worry or second guess himself constantly like I did.
In the early part of our marriage we struggled to find a church home. Should we go to the Methodist church as I grew up in or the Baptist church as he was raised in? I struggled with the whole concept of having to be baptized by emersion to join the Baptist church. I felt like the church was saying what you did at 13 wasn’t real and doesn’t count because you were just sprinkled. I didn’t really understand that although I was sprinkled and made a profession of faith in the Methodist church, I wasn’t fully committed to the Lord or in a true relationship with Him.
Then we decided to go the church where Jeff grew up. The pastor there was so helpful in explaining the meaning behind being baptized by emersion without making me feel that I was turning my back on the decision I made at 13.
We continued visiting but didn’t join right away. I continued to struggle with doubts and second guessing myself. We were struggling with infertility and had been for several years. I remember lying in bed one night praying and crying out to God. I was so hurt that we couldn’t have a child. I wondered what I did wrong and why God was punishing me. I remember saying, “God, I feel like there’s a war going on inside me and the devil is going to win. Please don’t let him win.”
A few weeks later our church told us that David Ring was coming to speak at MTSU. Jeff and I attended with some of our friends. I was so touched by his message. I thought, “Wow, if he could come through all that he has and not be bitter, what am I so upset about? He doesn’t feel like God’s punishing him, so why should I?” When he gave the invitation, I felt the flood gates open. I knew right then and there that I wanted the assurance he and Jeff had. I was sobbing like a baby when I raised my hand to confirm that I had asked Jesus to be real in my life. At that moment I was sure. I finally got it! I knew what it means to be a child of the King!

New Update

2009-06-29T19:53:00.003-05:00

The lawyers in GA called this afternoon and told me they are 95% ready to send our papers into INS. I have to send in some copies of our previous paperwork tomorrow and then it's away we go. Wish me luck and locating those papers they are from 1997, but I am pretty sure I have them. If not INS in Memphis does. They said it wouldn't keep us from filing if I don't have them, but it will just be more evidence that can help us. So I am off to dig through my piles of paperwork!

Proud Mommy Moment

2009-06-28T16:30:00.002-05:00

Yesterday when I got home from taking Hannah to practice, James came running out to the car to get his Bible. I asked why he needed his Bible and he said, "I have to look up something in Revealation." So I of course I asked why. This is where the proud part comes in. He was watching a show on the History Channel and they were talking about the Apocolapse and he wanted to see if what they were saying about the seven signs was true. So there he sate in the chair watching TV and verifing the true answers in his Bible.

Neighborhood Watch

2009-06-16T20:39:00.003-05:00

So I get a phone call Sunday afternoon from my neighbor that went something like this:

N: Did you know James is outside with his bow and arrow?
M: Yes
N: Did you know he doesn't have the suction cup on the end?
M: No
N: Yeah, he's sharpened it to a point and is running around. Just thought you might want to know.
M: Thanks, I'll send his dad out to get him.

So besides looking like bad parents who don't watch their kid, I asked James how he sharpened his arrow. His reply, "With the pencil sharpener."

Who knew when I hard the sharpener running it was not a pencil being sharpened. Isn't that what any sane person would think? Well, not a my house. I told Jeff we may need to remove the blender, who knows what ulterior uses James could find for it!

You Know It's Summer. . .

2009-06-03T11:51:00.002-05:00

when you get fifty phone calls a day from home. This mornings phone call went something like this:

James: Mom, I am so glad I took all the cushions off the couch!

Mom: Um, why?

James: Because there was a hole in there and I found my Gameboy in it! (said Gameboy has been MIA for two months)

Mom: Well, that's great did you find the game your were missing, too?

James: No, I've got to rip a bigger hole.

Mom: Wait, don't do anything until your dad and I are there! Don't rip any holes in the couch.

James: Okay, bye.

Phone call number 2
James: I pushed the "sheet" back into the couch and got the cushions back on, but I didn't see my other game.

Mom: You didn't rip anything did you?

James: No.

Mom: By the way, why did you have the cushions off the couch?

James: Because I was laying on the floor and it was hard so I needed something soft.

Oh, my summer has just begun!

Last Weekend's Project

2009-05-23T11:15:00.002-05:00

I used wordle.net again to make gifts. I used a friend's favorite Bible verse and then framed it. I am becoming majorly addicted to this site. It is so easy and fun.

Not Finished, But One Step Closer

2009-05-22T07:12:00.000-05:00

We were granted the Order of Depriviation which means she has been declared abandoned by her birth parents and TN has jursidication over her. They put her in our custody. This was a praise because now we move on to the Immigration Attorney to apply with INS for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status. This will give her legal status in the US and make her eligible for a domestic adoption. So not finished, but one step closer.

A Little Bummed

2009-05-15T07:55:00.003-05:00

So our court date is coming up next week and still no contact with the guardian ad-litem. I decided that I would e-mail him today and see if his discussion with our lawyer was sufficient or if we should expect contact soon. Well, you know what came back immediately? An automatic reply e-mail that said he was out of the office from May 8-May 19. To borrow a phrase from my niece, "Are you serious?" I need exclamation marks after that. I mean come on that's the day before our court date. I really didn't want to hear that he's out enjoying himself when I've been stressing about him contacting us for a month. But then God said, "Slow down, I've got this." My devotional this morning was about trusting in God and not our own means, and not ten minutes later, I am worrying about my own means again. Maybe God should be asking me, "Are you serious?"

Mother's Day, Weekend Project, & Jame Quote

2009-05-10T18:04:00.004-05:00

Mother's Day was good. The kids lead the service at church and did a fabulous job. Then we went to Jeff's sister's for lunch. Since my dad was out of town, my mom and grandmother came, too. My weekend project involved the gifts I was making for Mother's Day. See the picture's below. It was so easy using the web site wordle.net.
I also made one for Hannah's room.

Enjoy pics of the fam.

And for the latest James quote, which by the way earns me the Bad Mommy Award yet again. On Thursday, James wanted me to take him to the art show at his school to show me his artwork. The only problem is he waited until there was only 15 minutes left. So I declined. James said, "Well, apparently you don't care about my education at this point and time."

Waiting

2009-04-29T20:11:00.002-05:00

As you know we've been waiting 11 years for a resolution to our most pressing problem. At times I can hardly believe how the time has just flown by, but when I verbally say, "Eleven years." it sounds like a really long time to wait.

Today my devotion gave me a chance to ponder if I've really had to wait that long. In comparison to the time from the first promise God made to Abraham to the time of God's fulfillment was around 600 years. Now, that's a long time. The writer of this devotion was trying to explain why God chose to have those details in the Bible that seem mundane. Like which tribe got which part of land as described in Joshua. He said that God placed those passages in the Bible to remind the Israelites and us of the evidence that God does what He says He will.

God places what seems like trival, insignificant information in the Bible to remind us that He has every detail under control, He knows every detail before it happens, and He knows when every promise will be fulfilled.

So is eleven years really that long? If I look at it in light of God's promise, I think not.

News On the Home Front

2009-04-29T17:37:00.003-05:00

Today was a day of mixed news. First the good, I e-mailed our lawyer because we haven't heard from the guardian ad-litem. Our lawyer said he had a long talk with him and that he is aware of our case, but has more urgent cases that need his attention. Our lawyer said that he will contact us well before the court date. They way he talked it's just a formality.

The not so good news is that Jeff got called into the principal's office and told he was being involuntarily transfered to a rival high school in the county. They blamed it on the budget and for the betterment of the system he needed to go teach at the other school. Jeff is really sad because he graduated from Oakland and always wanted to teach there. We are grateful that he has a job, it's just a lot to process. His principal had an assistant principal come to his room during a class and tell him to go to the office. When he got there they told him he had to transfer and handed him the papers to sign and then sent him back to class to teach as if nothing had happened. That really is a crappy way of dealing with employees if you ask me. So we will survive and we'll buck up and Jeff is determined to do his best no matter where he goes, but at heart he'll always be a Patriot.

No, New News

2009-04-22T21:24:00.001-05:00

We are still waiting for the guardian ad-litem to contact to set up his visit. Our lawyer sent him a letter last week, but still no word. Hopefully, he gets to us soon. We don't want our court date to be delayed.

Life's Cycle

2009-04-22T21:21:00.002-05:00

In the early morning hours,
the dew softly kisses you awake.

During the heat of the afternoon,
the breeze lifts your spirits high.

As the sun sets in spledid color,
the moon rises to wish you good night.

So it is in the cycle of life,
that daylight fades into night.

Level 7 State

2009-04-03T19:55:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Today Was the Day

2009-04-01T09:50:00.001-06:00

We appeared in court this morning. Our lawyer explained that he wanted us there in case the judge had in questions. His hope was that the judge would hear the motion to have Hannah declared abandoned and that the birth parents didn't respond and go ahead and do everything at one time. But he didn't, he decided to be on the cautious side because this is such a complicated case.

So, here's what happened. The judge got his law book out and decided that it would be best to appoint a guardian ad lit-em (sp?) for Hannah. He's words, "I just want to make sure I cross my t's and dot my i's." This means that the guardian will need to talk with us and come visit and then come back to court and tell them she is being cared for and yada, yada, yada. The judge also agreed that temporary custody could be granted to us since we have been taking care of her all this time. Basically, he wants to rule in our favor, but he wants to be sure nobody can come back and say, "Yeah, but you didn't follow the true letter of the law, so now we can contest."

All that to say, we have a new court date of May 20. On that date, the judge will hear from the guardian ad lit-em, go over all the motions from our lawyer, and hopefully grant the Order of Deprivation we need to send to the next lawyer in Georgia.

We're getting closer!!

Gatlinburg

2009-03-24T17:02:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

A Sprinkling of Petals

2009-03-18T14:39:00.003-06:00

A sprinkling of petals
fall to the ground,
with hushed tones,
and shattered dreams.

A sprinkling of petals
fall to the ground,
with soft moans,
and secrets left untold.

A sprinkling of petals
fall to the ground,
with silent tears,
for a child gone before their time.

A sprinkling of petals
swept away by the breeze,
but never from our memories.
December 1999

Poems

2009-03-14T12:20:00.003-06:00

Years ago I started writing poetry to release some of my frustrations and feelings. I kept writing through different writing conferences I attended as a teacher. But, I really haven't shared my writing. This week, I started thinking about sharing on my blog. It makes me a little nervous and self conscious. I don't know how people do this for a living. I wonder what if people laugh or think what I've written is stupid or corny. So I am going to put myself out there and just do it. Please don't tell me if you think my poems and short pieces are weird.

In Christ I am everything
I'm not within myself
In Him I'm strong and confident
Apart from Him I'm weak and afraid
In Him I'm beautiful and graceful
Apart from Him I'm plain and akward
In Him I'm able to love the unloveable
Apart from Him I shy away from those who are different
In Him I'm caring and kind
Apart from Him I'm callous and harsh
In Him I'm giving and obedient
Apart from Him I'm selfish and defiant
In Him I'm all things
Apart from Him I am nothing
November 2003

We've Never Seen This Before

2009-03-12T19:55:00.002-06:00

Of course not because James always comes up with the unusual. At the dentist yesterday for a routine cleaning, the x-ray showed something unusual. James had lost a baby tooth, but it didn't fall out. It turned and wedged between the two teeth on the opposite sides. So there is this tooth with no roots, nothing holding it into the gum except it's position between the teeth. So what should have been a short visit lasted longer as the doctor numbed his mouth and extracted the tooth.

President Michael Jackson?

2009-03-12T19:50:00.003-06:00

Yes, Hannah was a little confused about her Presidential first names. She asked me if I had ever been to Michael Jackson's house, the president from Tennessee. So I explained that his name was Andrew Jackson and yes I have been to his house. I told her Michael Jackson is a singer which led to her next statement, "I thought that was Michael Jordon." Um, no that would be a famous basketball player. Hannah's reply, "All these M's and J's get confusing."

Best Quotes From Florida

2009-03-10T17:19:00.002-06:00

The following were two funny quotes from my crazy kids while we were visiting in Florida.

#1 Hannah was making fun of James because he got in trouble at the resturant and I asked if he needed a trip to the bathroom. Hannah said, "Ooh you're going to the women's bathroom." To which I asked if she would like to visit the bathroom with her daddy. Her reply, "No, that's gross. They have waterfalls things in there." Hate to break it to her they aren't exactly waterfalls.

#2 James told Jeff's mom, "Granny can't remember for five minutes what grade I am in or how old I am."

We had a good time, but wished to stay longer. Hannah and Grandpa Bob enjoyed antgonizing the alligators in the canal behind his house by throwing oranges at them. I know why would they think that was a good idea!!

James got to go to Gatorland while we went to the meet. So he was happy.

A New Date

2009-03-04T16:21:00.001-06:00

We received a copy of the Default Motion from our lawyer today. At the bottom it said that the motion is due to be heard in the court on April 1. So that's the new date to pray for.

Good News, I Hope

2009-02-27T16:24:00.002-06:00

Here is the latest word from our attorney:

Nothing has been served on us, and 30 days have passed. We are filing a motion for default (you will not have to be there). After it is heard, we will get a court date for a hearing on the merits.

I believe that the motion for default is just to say we sent notification and got no response. We want the judge to accept that as sufficient notification so that we don't have to go and try to find the birth mother in person. So that is our specific prayer now. I don't have a timeline as to when this motion will be heard.

The Lord has gotten us through the first hurdle, and I cling to the promise that He that has began a good work in me will carry it on to completion.

Long Awaited Gallon Man Photos

2009-02-24T21:12:00.002-06:00

If you've been waiting for the Gallon Man photos, they're here! (Minus a few chest hairs that James pulled off because the tape wasn't holding>) But you will notice the lovely sideburns that I didn't even notice at first because I was too distracted by the chest and armpit hair. I also didn't notice the nice touch of adding a heart on the left upper side of his chest. Gotta love my boy and his creativity!

Hannah's 1st Level 7 Meet

2009-02-22T19:17:00.000-06:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

What If You Set the House on Fire?

2009-02-17T18:55:00.002-06:00

Jeff went to get Hannah at the gym and James stayed with our neighbor. When Jeff returned he noticed that the little fire pit we have had been moved off the patio and a fire had been lit in it. Curious as to why this would be he questioned James who proceeded to tell him that he and his friend were hungry and wanted to roast hot dogs so they built a fire. So we all know this is bad news on all levels, but hey at least they thought to douse it with water when they were done. Jeff asked, "What if the house had caught on fire?" James said, "Then I guess the house would be on fire." I am less than thrilled with our little pyromaniac, but I guess if he's ever left alone for any length of time he won't starve!

Half Way There

2009-02-09T19:50:00.002-06:00

Today I got word from our lawyer. Someone at the birth mother's house signed for the petition we sent on Jan. 22. The petition we sent to her lawyer was unclaimed. This means she has until Feb. 21 to respond. Then we can make our next move.

I told Jeff that I am glad that her time is half over because it meant less time for me to worry and think about what will happen. I guess our specific prayer is for her to let the time lapse so we can all move on with our lives.

More importantly, I know if she doesn't respond that I can truly put any doubts to rest and know that I can feel at peace with our decisions.

What Do You Say?

2009-02-04T20:39:00.003-06:00

I had a conference with James' teacher today. Bless her heart she must be a saint. She was excited to show me James' "gallon man" that he made. Everyone in the class made a "man" out of construction paper with a gallon as the body, 4 quarts as the arms and legs, and so on. But of course James' was special. Since they couldn't go out to recess his teacher told the class they could add decorations/features to their gallon men while she read a book. Some just drew eyes, some added yarn for hair, and then there's James. When she finished reading, he showed her his gallon man complete with chest and armpit hair. Oh, yes he used yarn alright, but not for the hair on his head.

So what do you say when the teacher shows you this fine work of art?

I just had to laugh and say, "I am so sorry!"

Maybe when he brings it home, I'll be able to get a picture to post. You really have to see it to appreciate it.

Slow Progress

2009-01-23T19:23:00.002-06:00

I got word from our attorney today that papers were sent certified mail on January 7.
So far they have heard nothing. He said he will have his legal assistant call UPS on Monday and track the delivery. So there is progress, but it is slow. I am not sure if that means our 30 days have started, but lets pray that either they won't respond or if they do it will be in our favor.

No News

2009-01-19T20:16:00.003-06:00

I've been out of town for the last two weeks with work. There have been no new updates and 2009 is starting out slow. Hopefully, within the next week I'll have something to share.

Strange Twist of Fate

2009-01-02T21:53:00.003-06:00

Okay, so many of you know that about 10 years ago we were interviewed by Fox News in LA in regards to Hannah's adoption. We have been in contact off and on with one of the investigative reporters from that original interview. And during some of his investigating it was alleged that the lawyer for the birth mother was also the birth father. Well, today the reporter called and talked to Jeff. He said that the lawyer and his wife have since adopted a child. (makes me wonder if that was the plan for Hannah) It's kind of strange to think that he may also be an adoptive parent and I wonder if he is (I have a little trust issue with believing a lot of what we are told. Wonder why?)an adoptive parent if he can sympathize with how we feel. Not that it is really important how he feels, but hopefully when he gets served with papers from the court here, he will let things drop and think about what's truly best for Hannah.

My Crazy Brother-in-law

2009-01-01T21:34:00.002-06:00

We never know what Coy will do next. He went into my granmother's bedroom and this is how he emerged. Then he said, "I've never been in women's pajama this soft before."

Family Xmas

2008-12-26T14:20:00.001-06:00

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Christmas at Jen's

2008-12-26T12:28:00.000-06:00

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Promised Update a Day Late

2008-12-20T11:55:00.002-06:00

I am going to quit promising to update by a certain time. It never works out. Anyway, our lawyer sent us a copy of the petition he is filing in the Juvenile Court. We proofed and then sent it back. He said they were mailing it and expected it to arrive at the court on Monday. Hopefully, the court will process it and send the service papers back to him on Tuesday so that he can then send the service papers onto the birth mother and reported birth father/lawyer for the mother. We have to wait 30 days from the time of service for a response. During that time he or the courts may ask for a hearing to grant temporary custody. (I know we've had custody since 1997, and you would think possession is 9/10 of the law, but it's a hoop we'll jump through anyway) It's just a good feeling to know that somebody is actually working and following through with what they said they would do.

State Champ

2008-12-08T18:47:00.001-06:00

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Hannah repeated as the All Around State Champion for her age group at Level 6 this year. She had an overall score of 36.225. She had her highest beam score of 9.6. My camera broke so I only have pictures of floor and bars. Enjoy.

Mister Sensitivity

2008-12-02T20:48:00.002-06:00

One of Hannah's guinea pigs died yesterday. James found it and wanted to bury him in my flower bed without placing him in a bag so that he could be a "decomposer" and provide nutrients for the soil. Seems that has been in their science lessons. Then he wanted to be the one to tell Hannah.

So when we got home from gymnastics, I heard him tell Hannah to follow him to the garage (where the guinea pig cage is). She was a little skeptical, but he said he wanted to show her something. Now, I knew it really was not a good thing to let him tell her, but I didn't really think it would go down the way it did. Here's the conversation.

J: Do you notice something different about the guinea pig cage?
H: What?
J: Look at the cage and see what's different.
H: Where's Furry?
J: He's DEAD!!

At this Hannah collapases into tears and I have to pretend that I am feel bad that we have one less guinea pig. I am just glad he didn't tell her that her guinea pig was now a decomposer suppling nutrients to my flowers.

New Lawyer On the Team

2008-12-02T20:44:00.002-06:00

We went to another lawyer's office in Nashville today. He is going to start a petition right away. He is going to send a copy to the birth mother and her lawyer. They will have 30 days to respond. Then we will file our petition here in the TN courts. He also found out that the case we were called to give depositions for in front of the FBI was closed in 1999. It sure would have been nice for somebody to have told us that then.

So pray that their is no response from the birth mother or her lawyer and that when we file here the judge will be favorable to granting us the Order of Deprivation.

You Know Boys

2008-11-26T20:49:00.003-06:00

That was the answer James gave when I inquired as to how he got a long scratch on his arm today. He said, "Oh, you know boys. Playing rough, climbing trees, that stuff, but I didn't fall far. The branch just came up and scraped my arm when I fell."

I can tell you when a boy says, "...but I didn't fall far," a mother's heart tends to skip a beat.

What No Bling?

2008-11-26T20:37:00.003-06:00

Hannah and her friend are moving to Level 7 at the end of their meet season. State meet is the first weekend in December. They got their new leos and uniforms Friday. Let's just say there's not the bling that we've been use to. This is getting into serious business with the whole sporty, we're running with the big dogs, sleek look.

James' Ninth Birthday

2008-11-26T20:16:00.000-06:00

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Lawyer 5,273

2008-11-20T20:24:00.001-06:00

. .well, not really, but a new one on the team. The TN attorney we contacted has referred us to another lawyer to complete the Order of Deprivation and work with the Juvenile courts. She hasn't done this type of court order so she wanted us to be with someone who has. Once he gets the courts to give us the order, then the lawyer in GA deals with all the federal immigration work, and then the first TN attorney will do an adoption. Add that to the two other lawyers we may need if any special circumstances arise and I think we're up to 5. (I sorta feel like I should be on an episode of LA Law or maybe I could start a new joke, How many lawyers does it take to get a kid adopted? Wait, I don't really want an answer : ) I wonder if the government will give me a bailout package, hmm. All that to say we have a meeting on December 2nd with the new lawyer.

When Is Homework Not Homework?

2008-11-10T21:21:00.002-06:00

I asked James this weekend if he had any homework and he said, "No." So then I had to ask why his backpack was so heavy and what he needed his science book for. He explained that his teacher told him to bring the book home to study, but that's not homework. Somewhere in the process he must have thought he was carry those heavy books to build his muscles. I think he missed the point that the muscle he is suppose to build is his brain.

Voting

2008-11-04T18:07:00.003-06:00

James is into the election. He asked Jeff why kids can't vote. Jeff told him because they didn't know enough about the world, yet. So James wanted to know why they didn't teach him everything he needed to know in 1st and 2nd grade so that he could vote in 3rd. I guess he doesn't realize his teachers are too busy with all those other state standards to get to all the important stuff. The sad thing is even most adults don't know enough about the "world" to cast an informed vote.

The Weekend Report

2008-11-02T18:49:00.005-06:00

James had a book report due on Friday so we made a costume of one of the book characters. He was a talking toilet from the book Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets. Enjoy the photos.

Hannah had a meet at Opryland Hotel. My camera wasn't working so Jeff's mom took pictures with hers. As soon as she sends me copies, I'll post them.

She had a great meet and came in second out of 11 girls in her age group with an overall score of 35.775. We're still trying to get to that elusive 36!

Vault 9.175 4th place; Bars 8.675 3rd place; Beam 8.8 1st place; Floor 9.125 2nd place

James' Xmas List

2008-10-26T20:47:00.004-06:00

As we were strolling through Target the other day, James informed that he knew what he wanted on his Christmas list. So, I asked. And only my son would come up with the following response, "Coffee supplies and a new mattress."

Response to Gym Stars Comment

2008-10-20T20:20:00.003-05:00

Jimmy,
I apparently didn't check the Sommet Center's Web site before I went :) Anyway, lots of people had their cameras and the only thing the folks who worked at the center said was to be sure and leave the flash off. If you're using a camera you have to turn off the flash during the performances and if you're using video, you have to turn off the recording light. It's that way at all meets I've ever been to. They even came up to the people on the row in front of us and told them it was okay to use their camera, but turn off the flash. We did use the flash at the meet and greet part that we went to early.

Gymnastic Super Stars Tour

2008-10-18T21:58:00.003-05:00

We went to the tour at the Sommet Center on Thursday night. It was very cool. Hannah and her team got to go in early for a "Chalk Talk." Hannah got Natsia Lukin and some other gymnasts to sign her shirt. She was so close to getting Shawn Johnson to, but Shawn skipped over her. She had a red shirt & the railing was red, so I think Shawn didn't see it. It was fun and Hannah came home saying she would like to be in the Olympics. Well, we'll have to get her citizenship first. I think that's going to be a harder feat than training for the Olympics : ) Enjoy the pictures. I had some better ones but Hannah deleted them to get some video. I'll try to post video tomorrow.

Fine China

2008-10-13T20:23:00.003-05:00

Some of you may know that I had a little out patient surgery last week. On Tuesday, I had to go do all the pre-admit stuff, you know get the blood drawn, sign your life away, and promise not to sue should the doctors scar you for life. Anyway, I was worried they might postpone the procedure because I had a bad allergy/sinus thing going on all weekend prior to this.

But by Tuesday, I was feeling a lot better. So I signed all my papers and went into get my blood drawn. As luck would have it, I felt this small tickle starting in my throat, that then turned into a full blown coughing attack. I asked the nurse if there was a water fountain close by. (Who wants to be coughing with a needle sticking out of your arm?) My luck wasn't getting any better. Seems my nurse doesn't usually work at Stone Crest but at Centennial. So she has no idea where the water fountain is. In hopes of keeping me from coughing up a lung, she offers me her fine china.

She followed her offer with, "We do this all the time. Of course, we don't normally suggest this to our patients, but I promise its sterile." Oh, yes she was talking about providing me with a specimen cup to drink from. Now, because I was already coughing uncontrollably, and I watched as she removed the cup from its sterile packaging, I acquiesced.

So there I am sitting in the lab, drinking from a specimen cup, trying to get myself under control. After a few sips, mission accomplished, or so I thought. But as soon as I threw my fine china cup in the trash, yes, another coughing fit hit. The nurse was so kind and opened another sterile cup. By now, I am totally embarrassed.

She was finally able to draw my blood, with my sterile cup sitting by my side just in case.

Forgot the Camera & Coffee

2008-10-12T21:17:00.004-05:00

We were in Maryville this morning for an 8:00 a.m. meet. Yes, 8:00 a.m. Are these people insane? There were 17 girls in Hannah's age division. She came in 5th overall.

She got 1st place on beam with a 9.2; 5th on floor with 9.025; 8th on bars with 8.55; and 12th on vault with an 8.750.

I of course forgot my camera, not that it takes good pictures anyway. So my friend is going to give me a copy of the pictures I took on her camera.

Now, for the coffee part of my post. James has decided that the caffeine in coffee calms him down. It has been reported that caffeine has the opposite effect on people with ADHD, so thus James needs to drink coffee. He has spent most of Fall Break trying to convince me that it will save me money to buy a coffee maker and make him coffee everyday. See if I give him the coffee then I wouldn't have to buy his ADHD medicine. He's thought this all out and tried very hard to put a spin on it to make me think he only has my best interest at heart. Someday he's going to make a great politician or a great preacher.

Not So Exciting Update

2008-10-09T10:36:00.003-05:00

A few people have asked what's new on the adoption front. We received the contract and a list of things the lawyers need, last week. I had a few questions, so I am awaiting a reply from the lawyers. As soon as I get those, we will be sending off the retainer and away we go. So, it's not very exciting, but we're getting closer.

With James, It's All About Me

2008-09-30T21:03:00.003-05:00

Well, when it comes to James, he is always looking out for my best interest. (Sorta) On Saturday, he called me while I was at the gym to ask about ordering pizza. Here's the about me part:

J: Mom, can we order pizza for lunch? Just listen before you answer.
M: Okay.
J: See we can order pizza and I can use the box for my project and then we could have the leftovers for dinner so you don't have to cook.

See all about me!

Then on Sunday, he continued to think of me first.

J:Mom, I'll be you'll be glad when you finally get to retire.
M: Why would you say that?
J: Because then you would get to sleep late everyday.

All about me! And he knows me so well.

Just For Fun

2008-09-24T21:28:00.004-05:00

1. What is your middle name? Marie
2. How big is your bed? Queen
3. What was the last thing you ate? Ritz crackers
4. Last person you hugged?James, I just tucked him into bed.
5. Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? Left a message for my niece, does that count?
6. Favorite type of Food? Whatever someone else cooks :)
7. Favorite holiday? Easter
8. Favorite Season? Spring one of the reasons for above answer.
9. Last Movie you Watched, Who Was it With? Game Plan, the kids.
10. What books are you reading? Just finished The Shack
11. Favorite Movie? Don't have one
12. Favorite college football Team? Ugh, must I have one?
13. What were you doing before filling this out? copying this from Anna's blog
14. Dogs or cats: cats, but can't have one James is allergic.
15. Favorite Flower? tulips
16. What would you like to see right now? the back of my eyelids
17. Have you ever fired a gun? No, but somedays, I'd like to.
18. Do you like to travel by plane? Yes, way fun.
19. Right-handed or Left-handed? righty
20. If you could go to any place right now where would you go? Argentina
21. Did you get enough sleep last night? the answer is always, NO!!
22. First thing you thought about this morning? Is it morning already :(
23. Grilled or fried? grilled, usally
24. Are you afraid of the dark? Not anymore, was when I was little. Ask my sister why : )
25. Favorite hangout? Home, I don't get to stay here enough.
26. First thing you will buy if given a thousand dollars? I would pay on bills.
27. What are you afraid of ? cock roaches.
28. What is your nickname? Carolrie or Reesy (but only my dad or Jeff uses these)
29. Favorite color? purple.
30. What did you wanna be when you were a kid? teacher.
31. What do you usually do when the clock reads 7AM? If it's a good traffic day, I am walking into work. If it's the weekend, I am hitting the snooze button.
32. Who do you want to meet? Jesus

I copied and then cut alot of the questions, I didn't want to answer. Feel free to copy and add for fun to your site.

First Official Meet

2008-09-23T21:47:00.002-05:00

Hannah had her first official meet this weekend in Hendersonville. She placed 3rd on valut and floor, 5th on beam and bars, and 3rd all around in her age group.

World Wide Web Overload

2008-09-15T17:57:00.002-05:00

Okay, I think I am officially on web overload. I joined a Yahoo group for the Women's Ministry at church, I started a facebook to keep up with my friends at work, and I have this blog. I've even been told that I need to "Twitter." The only thing I "twitter" at is the thought of having another user name and password to keep up with. I really think I've lost my mind, I mean I hardly post on here. But anyway, if you have a facebook, I need friends. It's very depressing to look and see that you have no friends. I'll probably find reading your facebook more interesting that keeping up with my own : )

Teachers Today

2008-09-13T19:48:00.004-05:00

How would you like to come into class, only to see your teacher looking like this . . .

Yes, Jeff went to school dressed as Captain America and taught class that way. Why? you ask. Well, it was homecoming week and the kids had "Villian" day, so Jeff thought he would come as a hero, as we know all high schoolers think their teachers are:) I really think that the asbestos must be getting to him : )

The Start of a New Season

2008-09-07T20:55:00.002-05:00

We started the Level 6 meet season in Knoxville this weekend. Hannah did well, but there are no medals or ranking at this meet. The first meet is just a chance for the judges to see the gymnasts and give them a general score and advice on how to improve. I don't have many pictures, because I need a better camera.

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God Has a Plan

2008-09-01T20:42:00.003-05:00

The following is a conversation I had with Hannah after visiting the lawyer.

H: Mom, I don't want to go back there.

M: Back where?

H: To that other country.

M: Well, I don't believe that's going to happen.

H: But what if it does? God has a plan, you know.

M: Yes, I know. In my heart I believe His plan is for you to stay right where you are.

H: But what if it's not?

M: Then, we'll cross that bridge when we get to it. If it's not His plan, He will help us know what to do.

H: Will you go with me?

M: Yes.

H: But I won't get to see my friends anymore.

M: You'll make new friends.

H: But they speak Spanish and I don't want new friends.

M: Hannah, if this is what happens, God will be with you. In the Bible God says, "Fear not." 365 times and He promises never to leave us or forsake us. So that's one promise for every day of the year.

We Have a Plan

2008-08-29T09:13:00.002-05:00

I felt so encouraged after our meeting with the lawyer yesterday. It was if she was the person, we've been trying to find all along. She laid out a plan of action and discussed the possiblities both positive and negative with us. It was so refreshing to have someone say, "Here's what we're going to do." So now for the plan.

Step 1- Get a TN court to give us an order of deprivation. Basically that means we need them to say a.) her parents abandoned, abused, or neglected the child; b.) it's not in her best interest to go back; c.) she is eligible for long term foster care. On the forefront, the lawyer doesn't think any of those will be a problem. (as a side note, we would be her long term foster care)

Step 2- File the application for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status. Once it's approved we get her green card and when she has that we can do a TN adoption.

The one issue that concerns us most is that TN has to give notice to the birth mother about the proceeding. Hopefully, when she's notified, she won't decide to fight. It doesn't mean she will win if she does, it just complicates things.

So we are going to have a team of attorneys: an immigration attorney, a TN adoption attorney, an attorney in Mexico (don't worry Jeff & I aren't picking this one : ), and an attorney in FL who will be used for consultation in case the birth mother tries to claim abduction.

For the first time in years, I think this might just work out. I am still praying, but at least for now, I don't feel like it's still raining.

Praise In the Storm

2008-08-26T20:45:00.004-05:00

If you've heard the song "Praise You In This Storm" by Casting Crowns, then you understand why I relate to the opening lyrics.

I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down and wiped our tears away, stepped in and saved the day. But once again, I say amen and it's still raining as the thunder rolls I barely hear You whisper through the rain, "I'm with you"and as Your mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus: And I'll praise you in this storm and I will lift my hands for You are who You are no matter where I am and every tear I've cried You hold in your hand You never left my side and though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm. . .

Chorus I lift my eyes onto the hills where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth I lift my eyes onto the hills where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.
Praise You in This Stormwords by Mark Hall/music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herm

There are many days when I feel like it's still raining when I say, "Amen." Many times over the last several years, where I thought surely this is the time God is going to rush in and "save the day," only to find yet, again, it's still raining.

Everytime I listen to this song, I think, that's me. It is comforting to know that God holds every tear I've cried and still has never left my side. Many times, I find it hard to praise God through the storm, but I always think about where my help comes from.

So, as we head to Georgia tomorrow night to meet with the lawyers on Thursday, my prayer is that this time when I say, "Amen," it won't still be raining, but if it is, I will still praise God for who He is.

Being Generous

2008-08-25T16:55:00.003-05:00

At church yesterday the children's sermon was about being generous. The pastor demonstrated being generous by dividing all his spare change among the children. He told the kids to keep the change and use it to be generous as God would have them. So James promptly brought his change and give me two pennies and Jeff two pennies. He told us he was giving us the change to help out with gas. His heart was in the right place, if he only knew how much gas is a gallon.

Tag I am "It"

2008-08-21T17:41:00.004-05:00

My friend Candace tagged me on her blog. So if you're new to the whole game of tag on the blog world here are the rules:

1. Mention the person who tagged you.
2. List the rules on your blog.
3. Tell about six unspectacular quirks of yours.
4. Tag 5 bloggers by linking to them.
5. Leave a comment on each of their blogs letting them know you tagged them.

I now have followed rules 1 and 2, so what follows is my list of quirks. Not in any order of importance (in case you were wondering)

1. I brush my teeth at least 4 times a day, sometimes more. Yes, I have dental hygenie necessities at work : )

2. I can't stand the smell of green peas or lima beans cooking. Nor can I eat them without gagging. Ask my dad! He could tell your stories of how those disappeared from my plate.

3. Jeff says my definition of clean is quirky. Just because I don't like 10 pair of shoes in the living room when you only have one set of feet to put them on, doesn't mean I am quirky.

4. I put garlic salt in just about everything I cook. Got that from my dad.

5. I can't stand for someone to bite into their popsicle when they are eating it. It's like nails on the chalkboard.

6. Jeff says my last one should be that I have to go to the restroom everywhere I go and everytime we stop. I myself think that is a necessity, not a quirk.

So, now I am suppose to tag 5 other bloggers, but since I don't have that many other bloggers, I will just tag two Anna and Jeff.

Latest Update

2008-08-16T11:30:00.003-05:00

We are going to Marietta, GA on August 28th to meet with the immigration lawyer. I've done some research about her and the Special Immigrant Juvenile Status. So, we are going to get the ball rolling. The 28th is also Hannah's birthday, so please pray for her not to feel disappointment that we won't be her on her birthday.

The SIJS is basically a way for her to get her green card and given all the rights of a permanent resident including the option for naturaliztion after 5 years. She would have to be declared a ward of the court first and then we could apply to INS for the SIJS. (I love all the initials!) I won't know until we visit the lawyer what that means as far as being adopted by us or how that affects her future other than she would have legal status and not be in limbo. I did find out it could take 6-18 months for the SIJS to be decided upon.

Pray that we know the questions to ask and that the lawyer can explain things in simple terms. Pray that we will have safety while traveling and for the assurance that this is the next step God would have us take.

Effects of Economy on the Home Level

2008-08-16T11:20:00.002-05:00

The economy is definitely effecting things on every level of my life. I am clipping coupons (yuck), being the mean mom who doesn't allow much eating out, and trying to save on gas. But it really hit me the other night when Hannah asked if we could afford our house and all the other things we (namely her gymnastics) do. Now, this was out of the blue and I know that I have been expressing my opinion about how we all need to do our best to save, but still it caught me off guard. So I asked why she would think that. She explained that there are alot of houses for sell in our neighborhood and she was wondering if we could afford ours or if we would have to move, too. Now, that just breaks my heart that she is worried about losing her home. I assured her that no matter how tight things were, we would always be sure the necessities were covered first.

Yeah, I Did It!

2008-08-08T19:16:00.005-05:00

I am not sure how I like this new background, but at least I finally figured out how to do it after 2 hours of work. The first site I visited to create a page let me, but then it didn't save :( So, then I went here to get free backgrounds. Thanks, Candace for the tip.

Also, thanks Anna for helping me learn how to link.

Questions for My Fellow Bloggers

2008-08-02T22:01:00.002-05:00

Okay, not that any of you have managed to give me any money making advice, but I thought I would give you a shot at teaching me something new (to me) about blogging.

1. How do you get a link to highlight inside your post? I have seen it on lots of blogs where the blogger says go here or here and you click on the word here and you go there. However, I really haven't figured out how to do that. I am sure it has something to do with Add enclosure link, but I tried and it didn't work.

2. Is there a way to add a tracker to my blog to see how many (in my case how few) people visit my blog? I am just curious to know if anybody does or not.

3. How can I put a fancy background and headline on here. I know that some of you know when I taught school, I changed the room around every 4-6 weeks and I change my office quite ofter at work. So it's driving me crazy that I have had the same template forever.

Anyone who wants to give me a tutorial, would be my personal hero : )

Suggestions Wanted

2008-07-23T20:44:00.003-05:00

If you read my last adoption post, you know that we are faced with the task of raising money to pay for lawyers. On top of the money we already owe, that's going to mean a need for extra income. If any of my friends have suggestions or leads on how I can go about earning said extra income, please feel free to share your suggestions. Almost all suggestions will be seriously considered :)And for my friend Jeff, yes, that means I might even consider a Spam Fundraiser :)

Dinner at Al Capone's

2008-07-23T20:38:00.003-05:00

Jeff's mom and step-dad took us to dinner two weeks ago in Monteagle. Yes, I know with the price of gas, they wanted to drive to Monteagle to eat. It was at the High Point which was one of Al Capone's homes. It was very beautiful. They took us to thank Jeff for coming over and helping them clean out their attic and me because I didn't complain too much when Jeff and James brought their "treasures" to my house from said attic. They know I just love to have stuff around the house :) It was a very nice evening and if you have a special anniversary coming I would recommend the drive.

Update

2008-07-21T11:41:00.002-05:00

Last week was a crazy week. I worked all day and then came home and taught VBS at my church at night. So, I am just now getting a chance to update the adoption situation. The lawyers tried several times to contact the FBI and get information about our case. Unfortunately, the FBI won't release any information unless we file paperwork for them to do so. Our lawyer said that she has not had much success with that in the past and that it takes a long time if they do give you any information. So, she suggested we start the process for Special Immigrant Juvenile status. This will cost between 3,500-5,000. Jeff and I want to do this, but it is financially impossible for us right now. Hopefully, God will make a way and we can start soon.

Miss. Julia Hits the Road

2008-07-08T21:28:00.003-05:00

Not really, but if I was writing the next book in the Miss. Julia series that would be my title. There are six books in the series and after book number three it's time to send Miss. Julia packing. She's a Southern lady with a very independent streak and a knack for whining. The plot in each book is the always the same. Someone has a problem, she thinks she has to fix it and nobody else knows what they're doing, problem solved, end of book. I decided I could take no more of this and quit while I was ahead. So if anyone has any suggestions for new reading material, I would be much obliged.

A Day to Celebrate

2008-07-07T19:59:00.006-05:00

Hannah and James were baptized, yesterday. My camera doesn't take very good pictures when the room is not well lit, so needless to say, I didn't get great pics. But the day was special anyway. Hannah and James were the last to be baptized since they were siblings. After each person was baptized the pastor asked if someone would say a prayer for them. Jeff's dad said a prayer for Hannah.But then the sweetest thing happened when it was time for someone to pray for James. Out of all the people in the church, his best friend jumped up so he could say the prayer for James. I was so impressed because you could tell he was just waiting for the preacher to ask so he could stand up before anybody else got a chance. I don't know a word he said, but I cried at the sweetness of the moment. He didn't care one bit that the whole church was watching and that adults had prayed for everyone else. I am so glad that God has put such a sweet, courageous little boy in James' life to be his friend.

The church gave the kids a new Bible and a Certificate of Baptism. James decided he was going to keep his together, so he would always remember that this was the Bible he got for being baptized. (For my LifeWay friends they both were HCSB)

Then we went to eat after church. We let the kids decide with one rule, "No, resturants with a drive thru." So they picked the Famous Chinese Buffet. Not my favorite, but theirs so oh, well. Hannah discovered a new talent with the bouncey balls she got from the quarter machines.

What I'd Like for You to Know

2008-07-03T15:53:00.005-05:00

As I was reading through some of the blogs I like to read, I came across a post at Rocks In My Dryer, that intrigued me. She is doing a series entitled What I'd Like for You to Know. I thought about the journey we've been on for the last ten and half years and what I really wish people knew about how we ended up where we are. Most of the time I really don't know how to explain this whole messed up adoption to myself, much less to other people when they ask. I want people to know that we made the best decisions we could based on the information we had. I want people to know that when they see cases like this on TV or read about them in the newspaper, it's not always as cut and dry as it seems. People think why don't you just give the baby back before it's too, late and they have solid memories and relationships built. I know because I was one of the people who thought like that before it was me. It seems that the situation takes on a life of its own and you have no control.

I want people to know that we can't just do nothing until she's 18. It is urgent for her future that we work towards an end now. If we wait she doesn't have a future-no college, no legal status, no legal rights to get a job,no security. She's just in limbo.

I want people to know that we aren't strong and admirable. If we let this stay on the forefront of our thoughts all the time, we would drive ourselves crazy. We are just like everyone else, trying to make the best of the situation and holding on to the faith we have in Jesus.

I want people to know that adoption is still a great thing, even when as humans we mess everything up.

Baptisim

2008-07-03T15:39:00.003-05:00

Hannah and James will both be baptized this Sunday. We are excited about this special day in their lives. I feel blessed that both of my children have accepted Jesus into their lives and pray that they will continue to grow in their relationship with Him.

What's Better Than Playing Powerball?

2008-06-17T19:06:00.003-05:00

A commercial came on the radio today for the lottery. They said, "What's better than playing powerball? Winning powerball. James said, "There is something better than winning powerball. It's knowing that Jesus loves me." I guess they wouldn't want to use that line to promote the lottery! Wonder if I have a future preacher on my hands.

CentriKid Rocks

2008-06-14T13:32:00.003-05:00

Camp was alot of fun. I was so proud of our kids and the growing they did. Hannah made a decision to accept Jesus into her life. So now she and James will be baptized at the same time.

OMC was a blast. Thankfully, there was no chocolate syrup this year :) I hate sticky!!! And I got to be in the No Fly Zone which was a blessing. The kids loved it though.

Headed to Camp

2008-06-09T09:12:00.002-05:00

Hannah and I are headed to CentriKid this morning. We will be gone all week, so no updates, unless I can Jeff to do them. (ha!)

Summer Fun

2008-06-07T14:04:00.003-05:00

Here are a few pictures of our niece from China and the family on Jeff's birthday. They were too cute not to post.

This One's For Mr. CVS

2008-06-07T13:58:00.004-05:00

This will probably be my first and last CVS post, but I just couldn't resist showing my friend, Jeff, my CVS deal today.

I spent 24.70 total.
OOP 1.71
10.99 in ECB
$3/$15 coupon
$3/any two body wash CVS coupon
$6 in manufactuers coupons

Came home with $9.49 ECBs

So, Jeff I actually spent less then $5. I guess that means I finally did it right:)

Cautiously Optimistic

2008-06-05T18:21:00.002-05:00

The news reporter from FOX news called Tuesday night and said that he had a meeting with the head of the DIF in Tijuana at 7:30. He called back on Wednesday and said the meeting went well and that she was going to meet with the judge this week to see what final paperwork was needed. He said he would call us back as soon as he hears anything. This sounds really encouraging, if you haven't been hearing the same thing for the last ten years. So, I am cautiously optimistic that it will be for real this time, but I am reserving all true excitement until I am holding papers in my hand.
Right, now for me this is same song second verse. I hope that he will call tomorrow with good news, but most of the time we get a call and then maybe not another one for months.

Lesson Learned

2008-06-04T07:26:00.001-05:00

A friend in my Sunday School class has challenged us to start a devotion time each day with our kids. She suggested we start with the story of David and Goliath. I read the first 10 verses to the kids last night. James was really into it and wanted more. But, I made one grave mistake that kept Hannah from getting into it. I was trying to give them something to compare Goliath's size to. So I was saying you know a door frame is 6 feet tall and you add three more feet and that's about how tall he was. Then it said his scale armor weighed 125 pounds. So what do I think to compare the weight to? I said, it weighs a little more than Hannah. (bad, bad, bad move) For the rest of the time Hannah, couldn't focus because I said she was fat! Never mind that those words did not come out of my mouth.

Of course, she'll use that when she grows up and goes to therapy. Hopefully tonight will go better. Lesson learned, always use an inanimate object to compare weights.

A First for James

2008-06-01T21:32:00.004-05:00

Today, James got to take the Lord's Supper for the first time. He was excited even though he thought the cracker tasted like paper. He was even more excited when he got to drink the juice and wash the taste away. I tried explaining to him the meaning behind each symbol and remind him that it is a very special meal even though it's not something he is used to.

What Will We Tell Hannah When She's 20?

2008-05-25T14:34:00.004-05:00

The lawyer asked Jeff that question and I have been thinking about it. I know she was really trying to see how far we've thought out the ramifications if Hannah decides to locate her birth mother. I always wanted to be able to say with 100% assurance, that her birth mother gave her up out of love. But the waters have been so muddied, that I don't think I can honestly answer much of the questions Hannah may have in the future.

So the only thing I can tell her is what I know in my heart to be the truth. One, we would never would have started the adoption and continued unless we thought that was what her birth mother wanted.

Two, God has a plan and He put Hannah in our family and no matter what He didn't make a mistake.

Three, her dad and I made decisions based on the information we were given at the time. Sometimes that information was not accurate and we did not know that when we made our choices. Hindsight is 20/20 and if we had all the pieces to the puzzle when we made the decions, things might have been different.

Four, I know in my heart that I have asked God to forgive me for any harm or pain my decisions may have caused her birth mother. I spent nights crying and wondering if her birth mother was somewhere in Mexico doing the same. In order for me to be the best mom I could be, I had to let go and know that God knows my heart.

Five, no matter where she goes or what she does, she is always my baby girl. I am blessed that God chose to place her in our family.

Latest Update

2008-05-22T21:37:00.003-05:00

Today was the conference call with the attorney in Marietta. She is taking the case. It will cost between 10,000-15,000. We have to find out what the chances are of getting a remedy in Mexico.Then the fist step here is to try to get a special immigrant juvenile visa. Then we can pursue a course of action with the Juvenile Court here to give us custody and set up a foster care situation to start a path of citizenship. She said the legal advice we've gotten from both sides of the border has been deplorable. (we knew that) She is going to contact a former FBI field investigator to find out what information was obtained from the deposition we did years ago. She believes if the FBI thought that we had done something wrong, they would have already acted. If somebody wanted to push it we could be subject to the International Abduction Treaty. (not a good thing) She said this was not the worst case she's seen, but it is a unique situation.

Our prayers are:
1. We can find help through DIF in Tijuana.
2. We convince people with knowledge of the situation to testify that the birth mother has abandoned Hannah.
3. Financial provision.
4. We all stay safe during the process.

The Answer to My Question

2008-05-22T12:45:00.003-05:00

I found out why James dressed as a cowboy for his play. He was a seahorse. Make sense? Not to me. If you are a horse wouldn't a mane and a tail make more sense? Jeff said it was because cowboys ride on horses. Well, if you go with that then you should think about Hannah's question to me when she was about 6 or 7. "Why do they call them cowboys if they ride horses, not cows?" Hmm...

Braces, Togas, and Cowboy Suits

2008-05-21T21:38:00.008-05:00

It's been a busy month so far. Hannah got braces. She's not thrilled.

Hannah and James were both in a school play. Hannah's was called Dig It! and was all about Ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, and Mesopatamia. She got to wear a toga and do a back walk over in it. I am not sure who thought that was a good combination. But she did great.

James' was about under sea life. All the kids had to dress like different types of fish. I got that the kids dressed like clowns were clown fish and the kids with a sword were sword fish, but I didn't get James' cowboy costume. He was cute anyway.

And finally, today is Jeff's big 40 birthday. He received dead flowers and black balloons at school. His fellow teachers also gave him different things in sets of 40. Hannah and I also surprised him at church with a celebration cookie.

By the way sorry for the rotated pictures. I haven't figured out how to rotate them in blog land.

P.S. Tomorrow is the big phone consult with the lawyer in GA. Be praying.

Running In Circles

2008-05-19T09:13:00.001-05:00

A friend at work asked if we ever feel like a rat running on a wheel and getting nowhere. That's a great anology for our life. Here's the latest view from the wheel.

The latest referral update: The immigration attorney here in Nashville contacted the attorney in California, but due to medical issues she is not taking on any new cases. So our lawyer contacted another attorney in Marietta, Georgia. She is suppose to be very knowledgeable with complicated immigration issues and Mexican adoptions. I called her office Friday and we set up a phone consultation for this Thursday at 1:30. The positive side is that she will be closer if we need to travel to her office.

The attorney here has offered to help as the contact for getting paperwork and documents signed, faxed, and etc. She also told me if after talking with the attorney in Georgia we weren't comfortable with her, she would help us find someone else. She again told me she is not going to just drop us, but she is going to try to get us help.

Attorney Update

2008-05-09T21:20:00.003-05:00

Today was the day for our visit with the immigration attorney. She is going to check into seeing if we have to file under the new Hague Treaty or if we can file under the old guidelines. If we get to file under the old, it will be easier. If we have to go through the new guidelines it will be almost like starting over. She said that she is going to send our information to an attorney in California who is an expert on the new Hague Treaty and see if they will take on our case. She said that we need someone who is going to stay on top of the case and be able to hire their own investigators and so forth. She said we need to get ready to stay with it and prepare for the financial implications whether that be taking out a loan or whatever we have to do. So that's a little scary.

The blessing of today was she didn't charge us for today, because she didn't feel like she had any set answers for us. So I felt like she was honest and straightforward with us. As we left she made the statement that she was going to get us some help, so that was hopeful.

So, the specific prayer is that we get in under the old guidelines and for financial provisions.

Newest Adoption Information

2008-04-25T07:53:00.002-05:00

We were referred to an immigration attorney by our adoption attorney. I spoke with her yesterday and here's the gist.Since the Hague Treaty changed on April 1, it's really going to complicate things. Basically, she said that the treaty has always been in place, but since April 1 they have now decided to start enforcing intercountry adoptions to protect the child and birth mothers from baby trafficking. If we had a valid I-600 before April 1 then we could proceed under the old status, but I am sure ours isn't valid anymore, so we will have to go with the new enforcement.

So, we will have to convince Mexico, U.S. and the birth mother that it's in Hannah's best interest to allow this to go through. She wants to meet with us to determine if we have a Hague treaty case or not. She needs to look at all the paperwork and see if she is the right attorney for the case. If not she has two referrals, but they are out of state. She said if she had to refer us to them, she would be the point person here for us.

I set a meeting for May 9 at 2:00 which was the best time for her. It's going to be $300. Start praying, because I have no idea where God's going to provide that from.I am feeling a little overwhelmed.

It's Always the Mother

2008-04-24T11:34:00.002-05:00

Hannah and I had a coversation last week about how sometimes its hard to make choices. I tried to use the example of how hard it was to make the choice to quit teaching and come to LifeWay. Boy, did that backfire. Hannah said, "Yeah, but you did it and left your child during kindergarten when she didn't know her way around the school and stuff." Which if you know that I left in March when school was almost out and that she had been going up to said school with me since the time she was a baby, it wasn't really that bad. But I have to live with the guilt of "scarring" her.

As if that wasn't enough of my fault, I forgot James had a field trip yesterday. I felt really bad and James was being really sweet. He kept saying, "It's okay. Really, mom it's okay, I forgot, too. So your not the only one who forgot." Then Hannah pipes in and says, "I would never forget my child's field trip. And if I ever do it will be your fault for teaching me to forget things."

So as you can see it always come back to the mother. When they're lying on the couch spending big bucks for therapy, remember it will all come back down to the mother : )

P.S. If you can't get to sleep at night, use James excuse, "My stomach is empty and my head is full." I am sure that will come back to haunt me, that he didn't get enough to eat.

Yeah!

2008-04-22T21:27:00.003-05:00

James made a profession of faith. He started asking last week about being baptized. He told me his heart kept reminding him that he needed to do it. Jeff and I talked to him to be sure he understood why you need to be baptized. Of course he was just as matter a fact about everything as he could be. He kept saying, "My heart is just telling me. And I love Jesus so I need to." Oh, to be a child.

Bro. Dan came by tonight and talked with him. So the next step is to go down during the invitation and announce his decision.