This Hurts My Mommy Heart

International adoption at 13 year low.

Please prayerfully consider adopting an orphan.

The Gift of Patience

I am learning to be patient.  No, don't laugh.  I really am.  While I may seem a bit insane hasty from time to time, I really am much more laid-back than I used to be.  I am learning.

You see when we decided to get pregnant with "Peat," I did.  Days before I found out I was pregnant with "Repeat," we decided to start trying and we were.  Even my four angels awaiting me in heaven were asked for and received (although, they weren't meant to live here on  earth).  Now, the journey to our little Ladybug Princess on the other hand has been a true trial of patience and faith.

Basically, my whole life I've been spoiled well-loved.  Don't get me wrong.  I've had to work for many things in my life, but I've always had a timeline/game plan to follow.  Doing "A" by this date netted me "B" and so on.  I have always known the date or approximately when I would achieve my goal.  With the adoption, the timing is not really up to me.  Not that anything ever is, but I used to think it was.  Up until two years ago and the whole injury debacle, I honestly thought I was the one in control of my life.  Now, I laughingly say that I gave up control back then.  Truthfully, God has been the only on in control forever and always will be.

So, I'm a work in progress.  I was given the gift of patience through a series of sufferings complications that have genuinely enabled me to be a better me.  They say, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger."  Well, friends, I am going to be SUPERWOMAN!

Thank  you, Lord, for your gift of patience to this undeserving soul.

Do YOU know it's Christmastime?

If you haven't heard the song "Merry Christmas" by Third Day you may not understand where my heart is coming from.

We are in the process of adopting a little princess from China.  It is so difficult to not just jump on a plane and go get her, but the paperwork is not ready.  We have much to do before we bring her home.  I know that our daughter will come home to us in God's perfect timing.  I know that in my head but sometimes my heart takes awhile to catch up.  This time of year seems especially hard.  Our Ladybug Princess is in an orphanage.  We don't know if she has enough food to eat, if she is comforted when she cries, if she knows that our Lord and Savior was born on Christmas day over 2,000 years ago.  There is only one gift I want under our tree this year, and I won't get her.  It certainly makes me realize what Christmas really is all about. 
Sweet Ladybug Princess, I pray that God's angel are watching over you.


Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.   - Mother Teresa

Note: All images in this post have been “borrowed” from the internet. If I’m using your image and you don’t want me to, let me know and I’ll take it down.

A Big Job is Completed

Okay, so maybe it's not that big of a deal, but I finished writing my Christmas letter, addressing all the envelopes, and mailing out all of the cards.  Hooray!  I feel the need to celebrate with a pumpkin spice chai tea!  Yummy.

Read Any Good Books Lately?

It's that time of year...time to curl up with a good book, some hot tea/cocoa, and get comfy under a warm blanket (unless you are lucky enough to have a fireplace to heat you up).  I'm in a book club that has been meeting for only a few months. 

So far we have read: 

A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving - This was a tough book for me to get into (and apparently two others in the book club...even the friend who suggested the book didn't finish it!).  I enjoyed reading about Owen and Johnny as children, but the narrative by Johnny as an adult bored me (too political, I think).  Despite all that, the ending of the book was well worth suffering through Johnny's adult rants.  We're still trying to decide if Christie is allowed to choose another book...hahah.

Still Alice by Lisa Genova - Wow.  What a wonderfully written, thought-provoking, emotion-wringing story about Alice, a 50-something year old, Harvard professor who is diagnosed with early on-set Alzheimer's Disease.  This journey of a brilliant mind's tragic deteriorization is written from Alice's point-of-view.  She shares her heartache, frustration, insight, and inspiration.  I highly recommend this one!  Great choice, Kathy!

The Weight of Silence by Heather Gudenkauf - Another "wow" inspired book.  For any Jodi Picault fans, this is one author you need to read!  I was excited to read this one since the author lives in Dubuque and the story is based in eastern Iowa.  I usually have a harder time following a story that jumps around from one point-of-view to the next, but this one kept me so intrigued that I kept turning the pages.  This is a one-night read.  So, Beth, what's it about? you ask.  It is a story that encompasses the lives of two families, whose young daughters are best friends with a very special bond.  Tragedy strikes and the race is on to save one little girl's life and the other's quality of life.  This one keeps you guessing until the end!  Way to go, Amy!

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher - Okay, this was a FANTASTIC read....a total page turner.  It is not an easy read emotionally.  This well-written, geniusly formatted book is about teen suicide.  I know, not exactly the first topic you think you want to read (or talk about).  Maybe the fact that it's a taboo subject is why teen suicide is on the rise?  Hmm, point to ponder.  In the story, Hannah leaves behind thirteen tapes for thirteen people to listen to.  These people affected her life and created her reasons why.  Wow, I wish I could explain better than that.  Still sounds all heavy, and it is.  Even though it's a tough topic to read and discuss, it is well worth it.  As a former teen, I could see myself and others in so many situations that affect Hannah.  I remember the feelings of never being able to get past a rumor or reputation.  As a mother of teens, it scares the Hell out of me.  I am very seriously considering having my sons read this and discuss it with me (and their father, who will need to read it, too).  The overlaying message here is to realize the weight of your actions, speech, jokes, etc., because you never know who will take them to heart (and it may be their "last straw").  This one comes highly recommended to all teens, parents of teens, and anyone who loves a teen...heck, anyone who has been a teen should read this!  This was my book choice, and I'm glad I did.

So, any booklovers out there in the Dubuque area want to join our little bookclub, let me know.  Anyone else who has recommendations, please share with us.  We are open to anything:  fiction, non-fiction, adult books, children's books, religious/spiritual books, inspirational, motivational, or just a good "who done it".

Baby, It's Cold Outside

It is stinkin' cold!  Do I know what the temp is?  No.  Do I care?  No.  It's just COLD!
Obviously, God made my body for warmer climes.  I just know he's trying to tell me to move to Hawaii or somewhere gorgeously, heavenly warm!

Note: All images in this post have been “borrowed” from the internet. If I’m using your image and you don’t want me to, let me know and I’ll take it down.

What is so common about sense?

Today I'm really wondering just exactly what is so "common" about common sense?

I was visiting with one of my closest friends, E, and came upon the realization that sense is just not all that common.  E just had baby number five (HURRAY).  He's a beautiful, healthy baby boy.  He also just happens to be boy number five.  Yes, she has five sons.  I'm stunned at the responses she has gotten to the question as to whether or not number five was a girl. 

Some people need to read Emily Post!  Did their parents not teach them manners?  Where is that common sense?  You just don't say certain things to people.  Honestly, she has received many full-on stupid remarks.  Of course she is happy she had number five.  Yes, she loves him "even though he's not a girl."  No, she doesn't want to put him back in and try again, or give him away.  She has even heard stuff about "learning how to use birth control."  Soooooo not funny, not smart, not using your COMMON SENSE!

She's thrilled.  He's healthy.  He's beautiful.  He's a sweet, innocent little boy (for now....heheh).

I'm beginning to believe that so many people are like crabs in a bucket:  one crab can climb up and out, but two or more in the bucket and they all pull the climber back down to where they are.  Are these people jealous that E and her husband are such AMAZING parents?  Are they jealous that E and K "can afford" choose to afford for E to stay home and raise her own children?  Are they jealous because they don't think they could "handle" five boys?  Or are they just stupid....no, make that SENSELESS!

My Heart's Desire

Today has been "one of those days" in our adoption journey.  I want to be a mommy again so badly.  I want to be YOUR mommy.  I want to hold my baby girl in my arms and make sure she knows how much she is loved.  It's weird, scary, awe-inspiring, joyful, peaceful, full-on amazing....that I love you, my sweet LadyBug Princess.  I love you the way I love your brothers, Peat and Repeat.  I love you fully and completely, totally and happily, powerfully and tearfully.  I LOVE YOU!

This is an every day, every minute, every breath kind of love.  You are my daughter and I am your mommy, yet I don't know your name, never seen your face, never held you in my arms.  Just the same, I KNOW you are mine FOREVER. 

Whew, if you are still with me, I apologize for the "heaviness" of this post.  This always is on my heart, yet today I needed to write it all out.  Thanks for obliging me.

Note: All images in this post have been “borrowed” from the internet. If I’m using your image and you don’t want me to, let me know and I’ll take it down.

World AIDS Day

Did you know???  There are 12.1 MILLION CHILDREN in Africa who are ORPHANED by AIDS.

This disease is preventable.  Education is needed.  One person really can make a difference.  That one person could be you.  Are you willing to step up and make a difference?

It costs around 40 cents a day for the 2 pills that can help keep a person living with HIV in Africa alive. (RED) - ONE COLOR UNITES US.

It has been awhile...

I really admire those bloggers that can do this daily.  It's not as easy as it looks.  I bow down to you!

Life gets busy and a Mother's job get busier!

Hope everyone had a very Happy Thanksgiving.  Tomorrow begins December and the Christmastime rush.  Please do all you can to remember what Christmas is all about!

Thought for the day:

"Think of giving not as a duty but as a privelege." - J.D. Rockefeller, Jr.

IMPORTANT!!! Please read this

Linny of A Place Called Simplicity has called us to pray and fast on behalf of Africa's orphans.  Apparently, the Canadian government has stopped all Visas from Africa...meaning all those in process of adopting from there are devistated.  Canada has stopped all adoption from Africa, and often in these cases, what happens in Canada, the US soon follows. Here is Linny's post http://aplacecalledsimplicity.blogspot.com/2009/11/favor.html

Rolling Back the Years

July 4, 1976

I would be embarassed, but just how cute is that? Hahaha.

The ones who should be embarassed are my parents!  I mean, look at those ORANGE drapes and what's with the carpet?!?  I seem to remember dark green couches to go with all that loveliness.

Miss J Updated Me on Aleah

My niece called and said that Aleah came through the surgery just fine.  She's still in critical condition for awhile, and they won't know if she'll be able to move her facial muscles (I think that's right) for a bit.  Keep little Aleah in your prayers, please.

Prayers for Aleah

My niece's best friend has a little sister adopted from India, named Aleah (such a pretty name, isn't it?).  Well, today Aleah is having major surgery to fix a nerve in her face.  Apparently, it is a SEVEN HOUR long procedure.  So, I'm asking for prayers for:  Aleah, her family, her doctors and medical staff, and all that care for her.  I am also lifting up my own prayers for her.  Instead of trying to word my way through a prayer, I'm counting on what it says in Romans 8:26-27

The Spirit helps us in our weakness.  We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.  And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.

Sleep?!?!

Isn't it amazing all the wonderous thoughts, brilliant ideas, sensational plans you come up with in the middle of the night while you are trying to sleep?  Where do they all go?  And why didn't I get to sleep anyway?

Seriously, I need a notebook by my bed some nights.  Maybe I could end world hunger or cure cancer.  At the very least, I could figure out what I'm going to make for dinner that day.  *SIGH*

You would think that since none of that happens for me, I should be able to look like  Sleeping Beauty when I wake as opposed to the Medusa bedhead I usually have (she and I must be related).

vs.

Note: All images in this post have been “borrowed” from the internet. If I’m using your image and you don’t want me to, let me know and I’ll take it down.

YouTube - federov9's Channel

For anyone thinking of adopting a child with special/medical needs, you should watch this:

YouTube - federov9's Channel

Not Sure How I Rated

But I got to go out to eat TWICE today!  The first time my loving husband and I had a lunch date at a local family restaurant.  I was a good girl and had salad, which turns out to be a good decision because the whole family went out to Happy Joe's Pizza (they originated the taco pizza). 

Ooooh, it's just too hard to be good at Happy Joe's, and I wasn't.  Now my tummy is waaaay full, but my taste buds are waaaaay-er happier (yes, it's my blog, and I can make up words whenever I want!).  I think I splurged for the entire week.  Back to being a good girl tomorrow morning.

Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head

It's raining today! 

Maybe that isn't too exciting to most of you, but for this farmer's wife it is.  I haven't been able to spend a lot of time with Steve lately since he's been working in the fields.  He just texted me that he'll be home soon and done for the afternoon.  We have a date!  We're going out to lunch together (for the first time in a long time) and who knows what we'll do from there.  I LOVE spending time with my husband.  He's truly my best friend.  I'm a happy wife.

Beth Schlarmann, you've just won the Super Bowl! What's next?

I'M GOING TO DISNEYWORLD!!!

Woohooo.  Somehow in my entire 37 years, I've never made it to the home of Mickey Mouse and friends.  I'm so excited.  So, am I taking my wonderful husband of 17 years?  No.  Am I being a "good mom" and taking my children?  No.  I am being all selfish and stuff.  I will be going with a girlfriend of mine from high school, KT.  She is a Disney freak, as well.  Only she has been there many times.  We have decided to do a girls' week away from home in the wonderful world of Orlando.  I'm so happy!!!

Awesome Blogg-i-ness

Check out these way cool bloggers I met this weekend!

http://www.debworks.com/
http://hisandhersphoto.net/
http://www.bloggingbasics101.com/
http://www.boogersandburps.com/
http://www.smartcentsmom.com/
http://www.myredapron.com/
http://sincerelyjenni.blogspot.com/
http://www.iheartmimi.com/
http://www.complic8tedjourney.com/
http://www.threeboysandadog.com/
http://www.iowageekonline.com/
http://www.havekidwilltravel.com/
http://www.delightfulcupcakes.com/
http://minnemom.com/
http://blog.rockstarjenny.com/
http://journey4hope.blogspot.com/
http://tam4buit.blogspot.com/

and many more....

Thank yous, thank yous, and more thank yous

Didn't get a chance yesterday to give a "shout out" to the wonderful sponsors, speakers, and bloggers I met at the iBlog conference.  So, here I go:

Jody at Iowa Geek and Have Kid will Travel was both the brains and beauty behind the conference.  Yes, in an earlier post I mentioned that this was the inaugural conference.  Jody is planning on the first weekend of November 2010 in a TBA location in Iowa.  I love that she's moving the conference around the state!

The site of the conference was the beautiful Hotel Pattee in Perry, Iowa (approximately 40 miles west of Des Moines).  They also catered the conference.  Let me just say that the diet took a hit.  So yummy!!!

One of the sponsors of the conference was Land O Lakes Dairy from right here in our great state of Iowa.

Another sponsor was Dexter PC Computer Services from Dexter, Iowa.  They had very cute pink netbook and a way cool desktop that I was drooling over (as a gift for my husband, of course!).  Brian and Linda were very informative.  Check them out!

Creative Memories also sponsored the conference.  They totally hooked us up with StoryBook Creator Plus 3.0.  I am a HUGE scrapbooking fanatic, but I've never really digitally scrapped.  After listening to speakers Jenny Dammann, Web Specialist with CM, and Amber Gustafson, consultant, I am so excited to play with the software.  Not to mention, I am in NEED (not just want) of the MemoryManager software.

Some more speakers were:
PR Princess Claire Celsi
BJ Weber from Ankeny Tax and Accounting
Melanie Nelson at Blogging Basics 101
Darcy Milder from His and Hers Photography
Deb Brown at Deb Works Online Marketing Strategies and Franklin County News Today
Jennic Law from KangarooBoo

I learned so much from these people.  I don't know how to begin to say thank you to them all!

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

iBlog Conference

Well, as I mentioned, this blogging all started with a small conference in Perry, Iowa at the BEAUTIFUL Hotel Pattee on November 14 and 15.  This was the inaugural conference, so it was small...but very well put together by Jody of Iowa Geek and Have Kid will Travel.  The conference was attended by around 30 people: men, women, new bloggers, never before bloggers, and seasoned bloggers.  The speakers ranged in categories, answered many questions, followed a well-planned schedule, and took the time to meet and greet the attendees.  In all honesty, we attendees were treated like honored guests.  The Hotel Pattee is stunning with many themed rooms (ours was the RAGBRAI room).

So many sponsors to thank, so many blogs to link, so little time at the moment.  Look for some wonderful people, some wonderful blogs, and more in my next post.

New at this...

Well, I've done it.  I've broken down and tried this whole blogging thing!  After attending a blogging conference called iBlog (more on that to come) this past weekend, I've decided to jump into the blogging world.  My friend Tamara, who you can find at tamarab introduced me to the blogging world.  She and I met a few months ago at an adoption parenting class.  Who knew that would lead to this???  On Saturday, we travelled down to Perry, IA to attend the first ever iBlog conference.  Originally, I thought I'd just blog our adoption journey, but after meeting so many wonderful bloggers and learning from all of the presenters, I just knew I had to join the world of blogging.  So, here it is!  Hope you enjoy and keep coming back!