Welcome Home Katya!

Suffering

2012-03-05T20:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, our pastor, Dave, preached on Suffering. I don't like suffering, do you? Dave pointed out that likely none of us do--we all want to have good days at work, a good supper, and happy, peaceful conversation, a relaxing evening, and a restful night's sleep. When we don't get what we want, it's easy for us to get irritable, grumpy--or even down-right angry! Dave explained that suffering causes us to grow though in ways that we would never grow if we didn't experience suffering. We are stripped of our own ideas and forced to look hard at life from God's perspective. We learn to draw deeper from God's strength, rather than relying on our own. We re-evaluate our priorities in life, become wiser, and hopefully better, not bitter, people. Through suffering we are refined, purified, and hopefully grow more and more towards the person God wans us to be.

I thought Dave's message was timely for me. . . . This preparation for Katya's surgery feels painful. Thinking about being separated again from my children feels horribly painful. Sitting for hours in Baltimore while Katya is in surgery, without family or friends with us for support feels painful to even contemplate. The uncertainty about the out-come of Katya's surgery is the most painful of anything . . . will she live through the risky surgery, or will our hearts be ripped in two? And if she lives, will she be changed only for the better? or will there be changes for the worse that will cause our family to suffer more?

Even though we CHOSE to sacrifice and change our lives to bring Katya into our lives doesn't mean that suffering doesn't make us feel tempted to whine sometimes. We are not some sort of super-humans! Even though we are glad beyond words to have Katya with us doesn't mean that we don't MIND some of the painful changes that Katya's presence has brought into our lives. To love Katya means we also suffer pain . . . I have shared some of the ways on this blog. Others are private, quiet pains we suffer as a family. I'm proud of my kids--proud of my husband. They have chosen to embrace Katya and all that her life with us means--both the joy AND the suffering. And because we have chosen to embrace life with Katya and all that it means, we have love and laughter along with the pain and tears. We have God to walk with us during the hard times, the lonely times, and the times when tears fall. We have God to walk with us when we laugh for joy, and when we beam in pride at her latest accomplishment! I think He radiates joy at those times too!

With God's help, I want to continue to choose to embrace all that life with Katya brings.

Surgery

2012-02-28T07:25:00.000-08:00

Last night, we received our surgery date for Katya's cranial reconstruction. March 21st.

I have to admit that there are a LOT of mixed emotions with this. Some relief, ~~some~~ ~~fear~~ , ALOT of fear, a sense of peace down under the fear, resignation, determination, hope like a little flicker (hope that just maybe she will be able to learn to speak after the surgery! ? ! ), feeling sad that she's going to lose her beautiful hair for awhile when I know that her hair and wearing pretty hair things is important to her, feeling sad just because my baby is going to be going through so much without really understanding it and so many other things. Feeling the fear of the unknown--because no one knows how Katya will come out of this. Yes, we hope for the best--we pray for the best--but reality is NO ONE but God knows how Katya's brain and body will come through this surgery.

Being separated from my other children again feels hard to me too. There's concern about the costs coming on the heels of a long fall and winter with almost no work for Paul.

I am also concerned about being gone from Todd during his week of college finals when he really should have a little extra support and help from us, esp. as this is his first time to go through finals.

Yes, lots of mixed emotions. But I know beyond a shadow of doubt that God led us directly to Dr. Carson. I know God has His hand over Katya, and I know He knows exactly how all the details of all this are going to work out. Just like we had to choose to trust God and His purposes again and again up to this point, I know we will have to keep choosing to trust . . . As much as we love Katya, I know God loves her even more. I know God also loves and cares about our other children, and He will be with them while they are separated from us.

In the midst of trying to keep up with all we need to do on a regular basis PLUS with the extra things to be ready for surgery (paperwork, pre-op exams/labs, phone calls etc.), we also need to try to figure out how to prepare Katya for something that is so hard to communicate with the limited knowledge she has, as well as the language limitations. We are focusing on drawing up a list of important ASL signs that could be useful for Katya to know such as: Doctor, Nurse, Medicine, IPad, and so on. We will work on teaching her those signs ahead of time. And of course there is a request already for a Russian interpreter for her (hoping we can get the same kind gentleman we had last time! He was such a blessing!).

Above all, we will count on the prayers of Katya's friends . . . I know God is able to speak peace to her heart above and beyond what we can do.

My Sweet Katya

2012-02-10T13:46:00.000-08:00

Charity took this photo last night. Constrast it, please, to this photo taken just a few months ago, while she was still in Ukraine. . . .

The photo above was taken the awful day we realized that Katya was in some kind of horrible pain if even the merest and lightest of pressure was put on her tummy. That weekend we asked people to go to prayer, and God graciously answered "YES" to prayers for Katya's healing! Never once has she had any further issues with her tummy. To God goes all the praise and honor!

And now a fun Katya story from today as shared on my Facebook:

Have to share a Katya story from just this afternoon after she got home from school. . . . Katya saw some strawberries on the counter and then she came and looked up at Charity to get her attention, then Katya signed totally on her own, "Fruit!" as she walked back towards the berries!! We were so impressed and surprised, as we hadn't used the fruit sign with her for quite a while! She didn't have it 100% pat but close enough . . . we worked on having her sign "Fruit, please!" for her first piece, and then, "More fruit, please" and let her eat up every last piece!

Katya's Garden!

2012-02-08T13:19:00.000-08:00

Katya is a gardener. Yes, she is! In this bitter, snowy weather, she still manages to garden! Her garden is VERY important to her! Every morning she runs first thing after she comes down the stairs to check on it. Every day as soon as she gets home the first thing she does is run and check on her garden. When she's done with supper, the first thing she does is run and check on her garden! And every night after her bath is done, Katya checks on her garden the last thing before she goes to bed.

Yes, she's a very diligent gardener! Katya puts hours and hours into her garden every single day of the week, week after week, and it brings her much pleasure. She likes to get us to come and look at her garden while she points out items of special interest to her. Katya loves when we praise her garden.

You don't believe me?? Ahhh, thou of little faith! Just look--it's a garden! And it's Katya's! All hers. No one else's. No one but Katya touches her garden because we know it's so special to her.

Sometimes Katya changes her garden around. But the basic effect is always one of order, beauty, and careful planning.

Katya also built the sky-scraper beside her little garden. It's very tall. She pays attention to her sky-scraper, but it (of course!) does not require the time and attention that the garden does! It mostly sits there un-touched except for occasional maintenance. Every day, Katya plays by the window here.

Every day she tends her little garden with the care and precision of a master gardener.

Charity captured Katya's happiness with her garden when Charity braved the cold and went outside to shoot through the window.

No Koolaid for Me

2012-02-03T14:47:00.000-08:00

I've been reading "A Thousand Lives--The Untold Story Of Hope, Deception, and Survival At Jonestown" by Julia Scheeres. Probably most, if not all, of my blog readers are familiar with the horrible tragedy perpetuated on the people of Jonestown by the "Reverend" Jim Jones. I was a young child when that outrage happened, and even though my parents tried to shield me from the ugliness, it somehow seeped out enough that I was aware of it in a basic manner.

As I got older and learned more details, I was always impressed that I should never become a blind follower of anyone here on earth. I have not always perfectly remembered that, but the basic truth has stuck enough with me that it has protected me from a lot of trouble.

Even though according to reports, the Jonestown people drank "Flavor Aid", *not* Koolaid, the phrase meaning to not swallow blindly the beliefs of a person or organization has come to be, "Don't drink the Koolaid". Basically it's another way of saying, "Don't check your brains at the door! Think--evaluate--be careful to fact-find Appearances could be deceiving!"

And in the world of adoption, "Don't drink the Koolaid" has a lot of revelance.

So, I say, "No koolaid. No matter how bright, no matter how pretty, no matter if it's all the colors of the rainbow--don't drink it!"

(For more info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Jones )

For Sale

2012-01-27T07:06:00.000-08:00

I have FOUR brand new girl's dresses for sale that I really, really need to move. If you need them, or know of anyone who needs them, it would be a big blessing.

Size 8, Linen-Cotton blend. Machine wash and dry. Buttons down back and has sash ties. By Hartstrings.

Close up of trim--accurate color is more to the left of the photo--we have a cheap camera that doesn't necessarily take that great of photos.

Next dres is by My Michelle and is a size 16 in an amazing blue velour type fabric that feels and looks wonderful. Neat neckline, long sleeves, pull-over style with thin tie sash. Long and elegant.

Close up view of flowers on bottom of skirt. These photo does NOT show the true color which is a lovely, lovely blue.

I will post info about the other two dressse later . . .

These are both available for $9.00 a piece PLUS shipping.

Thanks!

Educational Progress and Challenges

2012-01-25T18:24:00.000-08:00

We have always home-schooled our children. In fact, we first were led to homeschool because of our oldest child's obvious special needs. At the time we did not have a diagnosis for him, and it took until he was 7 before we were finally able to get a diagnosis that was accurate, but we knew homeschooling was going to need to happen for him. It was a bit of radical and scary knowledge at the time, as we were members of a very conservative church that expected all members to send their children to the little church school. We knew that the school was not equipped to met our child's challenges which included health, educational and neurobiological issues that were going to mean he did not fit into a little standard box. Our choice to homeschool meant an entire change of church, the loss of a lot of our church friends from that particular denominational group and so on.

However, with God's help and the support of others who understood homeschooling we have been able to homeschool for many years now. Our oldest has graduated and is enrolled currently at a local college. Even when Kristina was added to our family, we figured out a way to make homeschooling her work. But when Katya came along, it quickly became obvious that if I was going to be able to meet each child's needs effectively Katya would need to go to school. That was a hard decision for us to make, esp. just a few short weeks after she was home, but it had to be done.

We love Katya's classroom teacher and feel very blessed that Katya has her. There are many things we appreciate about the school, and the progress they have made with Katya. However, we will frankly tell you that we DO have our challenges with them, our jaw dropping moments, and our "They said WHAT?!" times! At one point a few months ago, we had to get our home-study Social Worker involved in the situation with the school. It seems like they have taken our determination to make sure that no stone is left unturned for Katya a bit more seriously since that very intense and unhappy meeting with our wonderful Social Worker, Paul and I in the face of SEVEN of them. (Yeah, we were seriously out-numbered!)

Part of that "leaving no stone unturned" has meant that we contacted the International Adoption Clinic that we used initially with Katya and explained the concerns and frustrations we were having and asked for some guidance. They referred us to a psychologist that they knew had extensive experience working with children that are adopted.

Paul and I drove to meet with that lady yesterday for about an hour-long meeting. I have to say that the 2.5 hour trip *one way* was worth it to both of us! We think that Dr. I. is going to be one of the best things that has happened to Katya since she is home with us! She is going to continue gathering some more information, study the records, assessments and samples of Katya's recent work and then make recommendations about testing for Katya.

She also told us that she would say based on all the things we told her and what we showed her in Katya's IEP that in order to get the amount of help that Katya needs to be a successful adult some day we will have to go completely outside of the school system and get our own independent testing and then therapy. She pointed out that the school is doing what is easiest for them and what makes school work better for them--not what is necessarily best for Katya's long-term good.

Roger that. It's what we have been saying for awhile now.

Do they care about Katya?? I have no doubt that they do. I just honestly think that they don't have the knowledge to realize how urgent it is to address the needs she has NOW and how little time there is to dicker around fighting over services and IEP's and taking a "wait and see approach" like they want to do.

I have to say, it's easy for me to see why God had me cut my teeth first on all my other children before adding Katya to my life in my 'old age'. I wouldn't have had the knowledge, the resource base, nor probably the ability to be the polite but extremely persistent advocate for Katya that I am needing to be. Also, ironic as it may be, the advent of Facebook has connected me easily and almost effortlessly with people all over the world who are praying for Katya. There are others who are founts of information and advice, and the ones who just say, "Hugs!" All of it is necessary because I have to admit that this journey we are on with Katya is a big one--a draining and tiring one. At times it totally breaks our hearts, as we watch Katya becoming more and more alive and then so very, very frustrated when it's obvious she desperately WANTS now to communicate with us far more than she has the ability to do. The look of sheer frustration in her eyes and the frantic vocalizations she makes at such a time drive me to prayer again and again.

However, it is also rich with rewards!

*The joy of seeing her now be able to write her first name and moving on to learning how to write her last name!

*The excitement of seeing new ASL signs being ones Katya recognizes and uses to communicate.

* Hearing the Dr. yesterday say, "Based on every thing you are telling me, I'm guessing Katya's cognitive functioning is fairly good." (Yes, we think so too!)

*And still . . . as always . . . hearing her super cute giggle and knowing that it's been worth it all . . . every stress, every financial sacrifice, every loss of sleep, every bit of fear we went through due to circumstances out of our control while in Ukraine, every tough, ugly, and painful thing we have gone through so far . . . it has all been so worth it!

Katya raptly watching Curious George--we think she identifies with him since he doesn't speak--just makes noises! She has very little interest in any other movies--if she watches anything, it's usually Curious George. (Initially she had little to no interest at all in any videos, and while we don't think video watching is all that important in a child's life, it's occasionally handy when it's nap time for Dad! ;-) So we are glad she is now watching sometimes.

Katya's First Christmas In America

2012-01-13T19:49:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas 2011 was pretty quiet and simple. By choice, and by necessity. We knew Katya would likely be overwhelmed if we went in for anything big or splashy, and of course after completing an international adoption in this economy, and addressing Katya's medical needs, there wasn't a lot of "splash" available anyway. There were simple gifts, and thanks to an extremely kind blog reader, we had a lovely meal!

Even though the day started out with several of us very weary after being up with Katya in the night when she had an ear ache, and Katya herself started out the day being pretty tired and tame from it,

it was a peaceful and happy day for us. Katya was very cuddly and enjoyed being held.

We loved watching Katya's amazement that there was not only one package for her, but MORE packages! After she had opened several items (since she was getting gifts from siblings as well as from us) she became obviously overwhelmed--and maybe even disgusted--and went to enjoy what she had already gotten!

See the puzzle in the photo above?? She flipped all the pieces bottom side up, and proceeded to put it together that way--all brown showing! Umm, I would not have wanted to do that! I think she must enjoy a challenge, because she certainly knows how to put puzzles together right side up--and normally does it that way!

Katya opening her present from Kristina.

And the scarf from Todd. How he did it--because he says he did NOT try to do it--but he gave each one of us a perfect scarf! In Kayta's case, it perfectly went with her blue eyes and blond hair and the outfit that she had on that day!

We laughingly called her "Mary".

In the late afternoon Paul went to pick up a friend of ours who does not have the opportunity to spend holidays with family. He has become like family to us and enjoys sharing holiday meals with us. Charity and I like cooking when he is coming because he is such an appreciative guest and consumes our food with gusto.

Katya's lack of sleep due to the ear ache was catching up with her, but she revived enough to eat her first Christmas dinner cheerfully. We had turkey, mashed potatoes, cranbery sauce, a vegetable, gravy, cranberry nut salad and dessert. We had planned to do a few more dishes but after being up in the night with Katya, we were too sleepy to get done what we had planned and took a nap instead!

After supper and a early bathtime and bedtime for the tired little Miss Katya, Paul helped Chad put together his Lego set.

I will try to blog about Katya's 7th birthday soon.

This Says a Lot!

2012-01-03T20:48:00.000-08:00

All photos taken from our dining room door this week, by Charity.

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In other news, Katya is busting out of most of her size 5 tops and jumpers! She is also popping out of her size 4 leggings, and they are sooo small that size 6 is really the next appropriate size for her, as long as they are not too wide in the waist. Katya still has a very, very slender waist, and I'm guessing her figure may just be that way. However, she is continuing to put on weight in all kinds of places--like her hands and feet--oh my goodness! They look soooo much better than they did when she came home!

Katya also got excited and signed "train" when she saw Chad playing with the toy train under our "New Year's Tree" (Soviet era custom which we follow since we have children adopted from two different countries that were under Soviet rule at one time). WE got excited then because Charity had only used the sign "train" with Katya a very few times, and the last time was at least a month or more ago when they had seen a real train. For Katya to have dredged that up from her memory bank and appropriately used the sign with a TOY train was very exciting to us! The ASL sign was not perfect, but it was recognizeable. And Katya was visibly thrilled when Charity said, "Yes, Katya! That is a train!"

Little Miss Katya has also become extremely affectionate with Charity! She is more affectionate right now with Charity than with any other member of the family. Charity has poured a lot of hours of loving care into her so I'm glad to see that Katya is recognizing that and reciprocating by initiating hugs with Charity. ;-) It does my Mommy heart good! I would expect that we will continue to see her become increasingly affectionate with other members of the family as time moves on.

Katya celebrated Christmas AND her birthday last month. She is now 7. I hope to post photos from both of those events another day.

Thank you again to all who have been praying and supporting our family in our journey with Katya--those who have helped financially, emotionally, with prayers and love, in practical ways with clothing etc., phone calls to let us know you care--we appreciate it ALL sooo much! We can not do this without the loving help of God and His people! Thank you!

A Few Fun Tidbits

2011-12-18T18:44:00.000-08:00

* Katya seems to have recovered fairly well from the pnuemonia though she still has a slight cough that we have to keep an eye on.

* Having come home in size 3T clothing that BADLY bagged and sagged on her due to her utter lack of body fat, I'm so extremely happy to tell you that less than 6 months later Katya is now wearing size 5's and some 6's! Especially for her tops, she's outgrowing the 5s and is needing 6's.

* We are happy to report that Katya is continuing to progress in terms of obviously understanding more English, adding new ASL signs to her vocabulary, and making new letter sounds with her mouth. She obviously does struggle with many sounds and hasn't been able to make them successfully yet. We will continue to try. I'm so not ready to give up on her learning to speak! I continue to dream that she DOES speak and the wonder and joy that fill me in the dreams give me courage to keep on working with this situation while also continuing to add to her ASL knowledge.

* I really wonder what Katya will do with Christmas?? We will be having a pretty quiet and super-simple Christmas but I am looking forward to seeing what she does with her presents. We have a new Lauri puzzle for her and a giant coloring book of Winnie the Pooh. Just wish I could have found a Curious George one for her as that seems so far to be her favorite childhoold character. Ah well . . .

* This isn't so fun but it's important--Katya is now starting to grieve if the others leave and she needs to stay at home. It's not nearly always appropriate to take her to different functions due to her level of behavior, or her needing to get to bed on time so she has enough sleep to be rested for school the next day. We have never been able to get her to take a nap so cutting the night short doesn't allow her to function properly at school Hence, we try hard to keep her on her school sleep schedule for school days. When Katya needs to stay home either with one of us or a baby sitter, she will weep quietly when she realizes that the rest have left. She will often not be consoled till the departed ones return . . . I'm going to think that it's a healthy developmental stage, much like a young baby goes through a stage where they become keenly aware of their separation from Mommy and often, Daddy! While it's hard to watch her grieving, I think it's great that she is wishing to be with the others. We know that if say just Paul and I leave and she's home with the rest of the kids she doesn't seem to mind nearly as much as if everyone leaves but her and the person caring for her. She seems to like having more people from our family around than that.

* This observation is also similar to the one above: When the SW came out a few weeks ago to make our THIRD post-placement report, Katya quickly become wary and unhappy. She clearly recognized that something was up and tried hard to avoid and ignore the stranger with the clip board. When the SW began telling us "Good-bye" and we becan repeating that back to her, Katya ran off and hid. When found by Charity, she was obviously stressed. Charity began talking soothingly to her about how she was soon going to take a bath and get her jammies and go to bed HERE at HER home and how the lady would leave but Katya would stay with Mommy and Daddy. . . Katya soon relaxed and was willing to come out of hiding. So I'm really glad to see positive signs that show she's WANTING to be with us even while I'm grieving for Katya that her little world is such a fearful place . . .

Reporting on Pneumonia

2011-12-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

The school called me Monday about 2:45 pm, asking me to come and get Katya immediately because she was running a fever of 100.6. I grabbed the car keys and ran, calling Paul on the way there to alert him. Based on the time Katya had strep throat, I knew that this could signal the start of a mini-crisis and I wanted to give him a heads up.

When I arrived at the school and heard the rest of what they had to say and saw how listless she was, I headed with her for the car, calling the Drs office. They said to bring her in right away. So Paul met me at the house, and I ran in to alert the children. Gave Charity some fast instructions for supper and then ran back out to the van. Due to a major road being "out" on the way to our family Doctor we have a detour that snakes along and turns what is normally a 20 minute trip to his office into a good 30 minute trip.

As we were sitting in the waiting room waiting to be seen, Katya's little face kept getting more and more pink, and I began to feel very warm from the heat just radiating off her body as I was holding her in my arms. She was very listless, and I felt like I could see her just deteriorating as I was holding her. So when they got us back to a room and took her temp it didn't really surprise me when they said it was 104. (For those of you curious about the time span--it was about 1.5 hours from the time the school took her temp till they did at the Drs office.)

The Dr. was very concerned about her, but couldn't figure out exactly what was wrong. He said she could have an infection related to her recent surgery. She could have pnuemonia but he couldn't hear any thing in her lungs--however, he did admit that she could be dehydrated, and that could prevent him from hearing the sounds. (Katya dehydrates easily because she was never allowed to really learn to listen to her body signals in the orphanage, and because fluids were so limited and scheduled, she has a hard time knowing when and how much she should really drink).

So after some discussion back and forth and a thorough exam of all her body, he decided to go with a antibiotic shot and Tylenol in the office, and he let us take Katya home with orders to take her to the ER if she got any worse.

By the next day she was obviously feeling some better although still sick with a low grade temp. We took her back in for another check-up and this time, with her bettery hydrated, he could easily hear the noisy crackle that signals pnemonia, especially in her right lung. He told us then that he'd been within a hairs breadth of admitting her to the hospital the night before because he was so concerned about her. I'm thankful we were able to dodge that bullet!

I hate that she's on antibiotics again for the third time in less than 6 months (once for her strep throat, once for her ICP surgery due to the monitor running into her brain, and now for the pnuemonia). However, on my list of "things I will allow antibiotics for" are those things . . . I am not a big fan of popping antibiotics for every little thing, but those are serious issues. And I have first-hand knowledge of how very, very ill people with strep and pnuemonia can get without antibiotics.

I'm not an expert, but I really wonder if having general anethesia so recently didn't perhaps make her more susceptible to pnuemonia? Also, the fact that she doesn't spend a lot of time screaming anymore, and Katya doesn't talk or sing (yet--please, God willing!) means her lungs are not getting the normal work-out that a typical person's do, leaving her likely at more risk for lung related issues.

Katya is out of school until next week. It also sounds from a little reading that I have done that this round of pnuemonia has probably pushed off her reconstructive surgery for at least 6 more weeks. I am choosing to try to trust God's timing and purposes . . . and to allow God's JOY to fill my heart and spill into our home.

OUT--And DECISIONS

2011-11-24T12:07:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to report that I finally have access to a fully functional computer again that I can use for blogging, not just my IPAD. And guess why that is?! Kaya got OUT of the hospital--in time to eat Thanksgiving Dinner with us at The Children's House! It was a good dinner--prepared by caring volunteers who came in early this a.m. and made a full course Thanksgiving Meal!

I am really weary, and also feel like I'm still processing a lot of information and emotions. And praying already for guidance for the decisions that are ahead of us and the Doctors.

In a nutshell, it looks like Katya will probably be having cranial reconstruction surgery. Possibly fairly soon. However, I have been told several different things from several different Doctors, and Paul and I have some serious questions to ask Dr. Carson due to that, before we give the final go-ahead for this very risky surgery. We feel that if we are going to say, "Yes-put our Daughter's life at risk!" we need to have a clear understanding of exactly what is going on. And since we were told by one Dr. that she needed surgery due to high inter-cranial levels, and then were told by another that her levels were "all in the normal range" and she doesn't need surgery . . . WELL! You can see why we want some clarification here. I cross checked the "no surgery" Dr. on the ICP levels and what he said Katya's were fit with my own personal observations on her monitor. So I'm a bit confused, and for my own peace of mind, I need that clear understanding. Paul wants it too.

Whatever happens to Katya if we decide to go ahead with surgery, we HAVE to know that we made the best and wisest possible decision for her, based on all the info and understanding we have currently. So we are asking for prayers for wisdom for us and for Dr Carson.
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On a very, very happy note, Katya was a model ICU patient, and we clearly saw God's hand in how extremely well she did! Everyone was pleasantly shocked and pleased!!! I hope to blog more about that later!

Katya playing doctor

2011-11-23T10:17:00.000-08:00

Katya is doing well, so it's possbile she may be moved out of ICU tomorrow...either out of the hospital completely or to a regular room.

Morning Report

2011-11-23T07:11:00.000-08:00

Mrs. Dueck (who is still suffering from the after effects of the flu) traded off with Mr. Dueck last night and Mr. Dueck spent the night in the hospital with Katya. Katya slept very well, and then woke up smiling and giggling. We (Amy and Kristina) got to Skype iwth Mr. Dueck this morning and saw Katya...she smiled wide when she saw Kristina on the screen and waved and signed I Love You twice! Mrs. Dueck will be going to trade off with Mr. Dueck sometime this morning, so please pray for both of them as they are still fighting off the sickness!!
Also continue to pray for Katya...she has been doing very well, not pulling out any wires or cords and staying very calm without sedation. Pray for this to continue over the next 3 days.

Katya's Surgery

2011-11-22T09:52:00.000-08:00

This is from Amy.

Here are the updates in chronological order off of Facebook...

3 hours ago:
Katya in surgery. Pray!

2 1/2 hours ago:
Katya out of surgery. ICP monitor placed. Team working with her. We have not been allowed to see her yet. Pray for her as she wakes up.

1 hour ago:
Katya considered stable and relatively alert now. No Internet acess in PICU except in waiting area. So prob last update for awhile. She is currently playing with a Dora book that she can make play music and ate most of a popsicle. Paul is with her so I can get food and update, then he will leave to get food and a 30 min nap, then pick up other kiddoes who are at the C family about 20 min away from here. Thank u all for praying! I sure have seen them being answered with Katya being so peaceful even the nurses commented on how calmly she let them put her to sleep!

Here are pictures...

Waking Up

Looking at books and pictures in bed

Hi, Ho, Ho--to Baltimore We Go

2011-11-19T14:59:00.000-08:00

Katya is to meet with Dr. Carson the afternoon of Monday, the 21st. She will then need to be at Johns Hopkins Hospital at 5:30 a.m. on the 22 for pre-surgery prep. Surgery to place the ICP monitor is expected to start around 7:30 a.m.

Katya will then be in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) until the morning of the 25th, pending no complications.

Please be in prayer for our sweetie, and for our family. It has been very hard for everyone to be split apart in multiple directions when we were looking forward to celebrating our first Thanksgiving together as a family of 7.

In addition, I have been sick for the whole last week (I think too much stress and too little sleep) and am actually still in fact, sick, though much better than I was. I could use some prayers that I would have my health and energy back as we are going to be having a really long week with very little sleep ahead of us. There are no beds or even recliners in the PICU rooms--only a straight hospital chair--and since Katya is very, very dependent on Mommy for her security and interpreting her needs, it's going to be a long, long, week. I will need God's strength to get through it even if I'm well!

Please pray that Katya will be able to feel calm and peaceful in the midst of so much that is scary for her that she doesn't understand. Pray for Dr. Carson for wisdom and for technical perfection as he does Katya's surgery. Pray for clear guidance about the next steps for Katya's health care after this monitoring.

Please feel free to follow along on the Facebook Group, "Bringing Katya Home" (link on right hand side of blog) as I am more likely to post updates on FB than to be blogging, due to time constraints.

This last week has been a really challenging one for our family in so many, many ways. Someone shared the song, "God Says You're Gonna Make It" on their FB and I listened to it. I had never heard it before, but it totally spoke to my heart and blessed me. The words keep looping around in my head ever since.

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The last few days we've seen God's promises coming true:
#1. God opened up the door so we can take along Chad who really needed to be with his parents, using close friends of Katya and Kristina's music teacher to be His hands and feet to our family . . .
#2. I was praying about the financial impact that this trip is having on our family. Today God provided the EXACT (to the dollar!) money we need to pay for the lodging while we are there ($20.00 a night which is VERY reasonable, but still adds up to a chunk that we needed to pray about since Paul has had so little work this fall) AND $100 from a completely different direction that was a big surprise to us, which will help a lot with the gas! It blesses me to see God's provisions for Katya and our family!

Praise Him with me!! He is so good--all the time!!

Then, and Now

2011-11-09T20:15:00.000-08:00

This was taken at the airport, the night we returned from Ukraine. Katya was so skinny she was all bones, and very hard to hang on to. By the time this photo was taken, she was already looking some better than when we took her out of the orphanage. But she was still so very skinny that she could draw her legs completely up to her face because she had no body fat to stop her from doing it. Now, she can't do that--her tiny little tummy prevents!

Now, 4 months later, we delight in the fact that she has gone from wearing size 3T clothes (yes, you read that right--3T--and those bagged on her!) to size 5 and 6! The dress she has on below is a size six, and the tights are size 5/6!! Katya's hair has gotten thicker, longer, and glossier. Her fingernails now clip instead of tearing limply. The extra fuzz all over her body is diminishing, and she has eyebrows now and thick, long lashes. Just check out the photo that my friend, Lisa S, took of Katya with her teacher when Lisa went as a "Substitute" Grandparent on Grandparent's Day at School!

Then, Katya had NO method of communication except for screaming--LOUDLY--for every thing. She didn't have any method of communication for something even as basic a human need as tolieting! She had no way to ask for a drink, or for food, let alone specific foods.

Now, 4 months later, Katya can and does sign, "Toliet, Hungry, Thirsty, Want, More, Owie, I Love You, Bananna, Stop, Yes, No," and a few other things. What an amazing difference that small ability to communicate has made for her! Someone recently commented to me that she was a lot like a "feral child" initially. I have to agree that there was some truth to that. But no longer! Katya knows now she is loved, and will come and press her forehead close to our mouths now to indicate she wants a kiss. She loves her nightly routine of being rocked by Mom before going to bed, and will run for her favorite afghan and bring it to the chair when she sees me heading there. Katya also is learning to write her letters and numbers at school, and can and does make some verbal letter sounds. Last night, she even combined "S" and "T" to make the "SSSTTT" sound!

Prior to entering our family, Katya really had no one making sure that she got the medical care she needed. Now, she has us. We fight hard for her and are taking her to professionals who are in tune with caring for Katya in all ways--not only physically, but also caring about what is best for her emotionally as she continues to try to adjust to life in America.

The results of Katya's MRI of her spine and brain are back in. Katya's spine is normal. There is nothing visible on the MRI that would account for the change in her gait. Her MRI shows her skull to be very vascular, meaning that her cranial reconstruction would be very risky. Dr. Carson is wanting us to come to Johns Hopkins again to meet with us, examine Katya, and then admit her to the hospital for inter-cranial pressure monitoring (ICP monitoring). Katya will be in the ICU there for 2 to 4 days. I can't imagine trying to keep her down in an ICU bed for ONE day, let alone 2 to 4, and anyone who knows her well can't either. What a challenge, and not a funy one, in this Mommy's opinion. However, after talking to others and listening to Dr. Carson's reasoning, we believe that we are doing the right thing; the logical thing.

But yeah . . . we could do with some prayers again . . . I know I'm always begging for that it seems, but we sure do appreciate them!! All kind comments are appreciated too! ;-)

"Wares by Cherry"

2011-11-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

Charity has now started her own blog in order to show-case and sell the items she crafts and sews. Please hop on over to it http://waresbycherry.wordpress.com/ and leave her a kind comment if you can! ;-) Feel free to shop as well! Bookmark it or follow it, because that is where her hand-crafted and sewn items will be from now on.

I hope to post an update and photos of Katya later this weekend if I can get a few more minutes to do so.

Katya's BIG DAY

2011-10-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

After a very restless night at a friend's house, with Katya thrashing and falling partially off the cot (repeatedly) on one side of me, and Paul not sleeping well and doing a lot of thrashing on the other side of me in the bed, I finally fell into a very deep sleep (on the floor so I could keep pushing Katya back into her bed) right before 6:30 a.m. Not worried about the alarm going off, to wake us, since Paul had assured me he'd set it, I was started to have someone bending over me whispering that it was 7:00 a.m. and hadn't we wanted to be leaving the house by then?!

Thankfully, since our alarm did not go off, we were bailed out of what would have been a big bad problem by our hosts! We had been figuring on a 7:00 a.m. departure time giving us way plenty of time to arrive at the hospital--so even though we left the house at 7:20 a.m. (with Paul unshaven) we still got to Katya's appointment with about 15 minutes to spare! Thankfully we had good friends who functioned as our alarm when they realized that we weren't stirring.

I liked the staff I had to relate to in radiology again very much, just as I did when we were at the same place for Katya's CT scan. I found them very caring, very thorough and gentle with Katya. They were able to get the IV placed on the first try without any digging and Katya only cried a little bit right during the placement of the IV, and then again when the meds first started through she cried some due to the stinging. I was able to hold her in my arms and whisper and hum to her, and she soon went to sleep. Since it turned out that Dr. Carson had ordered an MRI of her brain as well as her spine, the procedure was anticipated to take around 1.5 hours. I decided to go wait the time out with Paul in the quiet of the cafeteria instead of in the MRI room with the noise of the MRI machine for that long of stretch of time. I'm well aware of how noisy the MRI machine is after sitting through it three times with another child of ours. Since that child was awake, it made more sense for me to stay as a reasurrance to them. With Katya, she was asleep, so after reassurances from the staff that they would DEFINITELY call me before she started to wake up, I left to do some self-care in the form of a bathroom break, and some food and water.

As it turned out, Katya's proceudre ended up taking almost an hour longer than anticpated, as she had some complications, so those last 45 minutes were really dragging and kind of made us feel a bit nervous as no one was telling us anything. I finally did go ask if they could call back and find out and they came back with a report that it would be around another 20 minutes--that there had been some complications but she was doing fine now.

The nurses were as good as their word and I was taken back to recovery while Katya was still soundly OUT. So she got to be woken up by Mommy (even then it took awhile till she was awake enough to notice I was there) and I got to be the one to try to coax sips of juice and to help her get some Goldfish crackers.

Turns out that Katya had ended up not staying sedated nearly as nice as they had thought she would. She "fought" the sedation and they had to keep redosing and finally had to add an additional drug to the one they had started her out on to get her to stay out deep enough to get the MRI's done. Then due to her deep level of sedation, her airways were so relaxed that she kept having all the mucous from her allergies drain down her throat and make her keep coughing which messed up the MRI images, which meant they had to keep re-doing segments. I'd told the staff prior to sedation that I'd made the call the night before to give her the usual allergy meds she takes and so I hoped it wasn't a problem but I hadn't thought that having her allergies running rampant was going to be a good thing for them with anethesia. They assured me I'd made the right call--and when she was in recovery, they brought it up and said that they were sure thankful I'd done that as they wouldn't have wanted to see how it was if she hadn't had her meds! The staff ended up having to suction her lungs (poor baby) but all seemed to be well by the time they finally let her out..

Katya was wobbly and uncordinated for about 2 hours after we were discharged but they had warned us to expect that. She seemed perfectly fine (just very sleepy) by the time we put her to bed tonight, and was giggly and playful.

Some interesting things yet from the day: The staff commented several times about how surprised they were to learn that Katya had only been with us since the end of June. "She seems so very comfortable with you!" Yes, I would say her attachment is coming along nicely . . . I've really noticed since Katya had strep throat that she is much more concerned that I be the one holding her etc. She used to obviously prefer Daddy to Mommy, and was just about equally fine with with Daddy, Charity or Mommy taking care of her. Now she obviously shows a preference for me. I'm supposing it's a healthy developmental stage at this point in Katya's life and we are happy to see that she knows Mommy is her big advocate and protector. ;-)

Katya touched Charity's arm in the car today when she wanted to get her attention that she wanted more of the snack bits Charity had been handing out to her and Chad! That is SOOO exciting to us, as she used to not seem to have any concept that a touch could direct our attention (eyes) to her so she could sign! ;-) That's a FABULOUS sign of progress! YAY! I can only seem more and more communication ahead of us!

And . . . tonight, just being a bit goofy, I said, "Katya, you will need to brush your 'toofers' " She turned, headed right to the bathroom and got her tooth brush and paste out! Now she's only been home since the end of June, and I didn't even know she knew what we meant if we said to brush her teeth, let alone using 'toofers' on her which is NOT what we usually say! I wish so much we knew how much English she actually understood, but it's obvious with each passing day that she really does understand more and more!

Thank you to everyone who has prayed for Katya and our family . . . we will be eagerly waiting to hear what Dr. Carson and Dr. A, Katya's orthopedic Dr., say about the MRI's. Hopefully this time the news will be something that gives us hope . . .

Nothing to Be Done

2011-10-25T17:07:00.000-07:00

Today was another disheartening day. Katya saw the orthopedic dr. for the issues with her elbowS. Yes, that's right--both elbows have something obviously wrong with them and she has limited range of motion in both arms.

After carefully examining her, and then getting X-rays done and him studying them carefully, Dr. A. said that Katya was more than likely born with this condition. He said you sometimes see it in cases of abuse or an accident, but typically that would only be one elbow. So he was calling it a congenital issues--and the offiical Dx is "Congenital Dislocation". Dr. A. stated that surgery will not help, and that PT to try to increase her range of motion is contra-indicated. However, she can have OT/PT to try to help her find ways to adapt and compensate.

Needless to say, having this blow on top of the one about her eyes has left us reeling a bit emotionally. We want all the best for our dear sweet girlie and to have one blow after another heaped on her just doesn't seem fair . . . why should one kiddoe have so many strikes against her?

The good news in all of this I think though is that she is with us . . . and we will do every thing in our power to help her and to help her lead as typical a life as possible . . . even though she can't sign some signs "properly" due to limited range of motion, we will help her learn to adapt signs. Even though she can't zip or unzip herself, we can find clothing that doesnt' need zippers or help her if she has a zipper with cheerful hearts. We will expect lots from her, but not expect the impossible.

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On a more cheerful note, the heart of Dr. A. was touched and moved as he learned bits and pieces of Katya's story and watched her interacting with us and moving around his office. When he left he said that Katya had certainly made his day and put a smile in his heart, and that he is so happy to have played a small part in her life. I know he meant it, as later when we were waiting for the final paperwork, I heard him talking down the hall to one of his nurses or techs about how "she certainly made my day--put a smile on my face!" Yes, our little gal seems to have that effect on people! When they hear a bit of her story and watch her . . . I often see their eyes become shiny with tears, or their face gets soft and their heart touched. Sometimes I say that to know Katya is to love her . . . and I think there is a lot of truth to that.

Last week on Friday Kristina had a friend over here playing doll with her. I don't know if that is what prompted Katya's sudden interest in playing with a doll later in the evening or not, but I wouldn't be surprised! She played with one doll, and then the next for quite awhile that evening, even taking the dolly over to play the piano!

Katya was ready for bed and in her PJ's . . note how lovely her hair is becoming compared to at first!

Trying to get dolly's sleeve to stay up so she could play right!

It was so fun to watch her enjoying PLAYING something that was so just like any little six year old girl might do!

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Thursday is Katya's MRI. Please be in prayer for her and ask anyone who might be willing to pray for her to pray too. Pray for peace for Katya, peace for us, and for us all to be able to cope with whatever the MRI shows or does not show . . . pray for Dr. Carson to have God's wisdom as he tries to plot the next step in this journey for Katya.

A Rough Few Days

2011-10-19T16:09:00.000-07:00

Just a little For Your Information--brought free to you by courtesy of me. . . .

If you are wanting to bless and support a family who is parenting a special needs child, kindly don't suggest that the reason the child has some specific physical problem (which has a good, solid diagnosis already, no less) is because they are possessed with evil spirits. And should you error, and mention it, kindly don't continue to try to press your point after said parents have tried to gently and kindly let you know that while they believe God is the great Healer and could choose to miraculously heal their child, they are satisfied that evil spirits are not causing their child's issues. Ok?? It really isn't helpful . . . not at all.

We are dealing with ENOUGH ALREADY emotionally, physically, financially and spiritually. We do not need that kind of "help", no matter how well-intentioned it is.

Do I believe that there ARE evil spirits? Absolutely. Do I believe in praying and rebuking them in Jesus' Name?? Absolutely. And I have had some occasions in some of my children's lives where I felt demonic oppression and have prayed for there to be freedom for my child in Jesus' Name. Not in a loud, public showy way that would scare the child. Just quietly and privately, between God and me. And I have seen there be changes--huge changes. But there is no need to become a paranoid "demon-behind-every-bush" person. I do not believe that clear-cut physical issues that have a certain Dx that makes all the sense that can be, are demonically caused.

So yes, please let us know you are praying that God will miraculously heal our children if it's His will. But stop there. Just stuff a sock in it, and don't go further if you truly believe that demonic possession is causing our child's physical handicaps/illness. Keep it to yourself, and simply pray. That will help us the most.
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Katya's eye exam on Monday was another emotionally draining day. Paul and I took her and I'm so glad he was with me.

Basically in a nutshell, after being examined by two residents and two fully licensed and accredited Doctors, everyone agreed that glasses will *not* help Katya see better. Since it's obvious Katya does not see well, they are strongly suspecting that what has happened is damage to the nerves that convey the information her eyes see to the brain for interpretation. They said that either cranio-stenosis AND/OR starvation could have caused the damage.

Needless to say, this has been a tough thing for our family to deal with, and tears have been shed. I personally feel very affected by it as I know how poor my own vision is, and how lost and miserable I am without my glasses. It is very hard for me to think of my little girl going through life with such poor vision as she appears to have . . . Very hard.

Katya also (no surprise) needs surgery on her eye muscles to help them but the Drs said they will not even talk about doing that surgery until she has had her cranial reconstruction, because it would be an utter failure if they attempted it prior to that.

Now in the midst of all this glum news, you might wonder, was there any GOOD news? Yes, there was. The good news is that Katya does not have as major of issues with her eyes working together as they would typically expect to see in a child with her level of cranial/facial issues. They said that means she does have less issues with depth perception and such. So that is a good thing!

And as to why she is "squinching" so much of the time recently? Her eyeballs have pushed forward so far due to the growth of her brain that she is having issues with dry eyes . . . Artificial tears are what Katya needs. That at least isn't a big issue, as long as we can get them into her eyes. After her two recent experiences with eye drops at the Drs offices, I don't think it's going to be a lot of fun getting them in several times a day! Poor girlie . . .

We Have an Appt.

2011-10-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

Miss Katya has an appointment for the 27th, at 8:15 a.m. for her MRI.

This will be an MRI with full sedation. Please pray for wisdom for the staff who will be working with her, and that they will be sensitive to her newly adopted status and allow Mom to stay with her until she is asleep and be again with her as soon as she is out of the MRI machine. Pray that if there is a problem that is causing her gait issues that it will be clearly revealed.

Thank you.

And Now For an MRI

2011-10-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

The decision has been made by Dr. Carson to have Katya get an MRI of her entire spine, due to the continuing foot-dragging and clumsy walking. Long gone are the days when we used to comment on her graceful walking and running. Now, it all looks ackward and clumsy. Poor Katya!

Dr Carson wants to make sure that even though the gait issues started happening in conjunction with her head bulging as her brain grew, that it's not connected to anything going wrong with her spine that we aren't aware of. He said he would hate to rush Katya into surgery for her head only to discover that she still had gait issues after surgery--that were caused by something else! We agree, and feel that the MRI is a very sensible course of action, even though it means GA (general anethesia) for our wee girlie, and that is scary with her relatively uknown medical history.

We are going to choose to commit her (again) into God's hands and proceed with faith, knowing that God has kept His hand over Katya in amazing ways from the day she was conceived. We will try to update once we have a definite date and time, but it's looking like it will be either the 24th of this month or the 27th.

Next Monday we also have a very important eye appointment--that one will be to hopefully determine whether or not glasses will help improve Katya's vision (I fully expect that she WILL need them) and if so, what prescription! I feel very hopeful and excited about this appointment as Katya LOVES to have Charity's glasses put on her. Her little face lights up with alertness and joy, and she will guard the glasses with her hands so no one tries to take them back too soon, as she looks intently and eagerly around. The way her entire face, eyes and body change each time she has the glasses on, I would be SERIOUSLY shocked if glasses aren't in her best interests!

After the bout with strep throat, Katya was still pretty wiped out and had little appetite for days. But in the last few days, her appetite has come back with a vengeance and we laugh at how she tucks into food again! She's actually getting a little extra tummy, and we love it!! She's still so scrawny else where on her body (even though she is MUCH improved from her starved condition just a little over 3 months ago!) that we will continue to let her eat all she pleases of good, healthy food. We were able to pack away all her size 3T clothes a few weeks ago, and most of her size 4T. She's now wearing mostly 5T and a few smaller 6 items. (If anyone is interested in her gently worn size 3T and 4T clothing, let me know--I'll be happy to sell it to you!)

Other happy and exciting things: Katya is now initiating using a handful of signs to communicate her needs. She can and does sign "toliet", "thirsty" "more", "yes" and shakes her head for "no". She also has a few food signs she tries to use, but so far she hasn't figured out that they are specific to an exact food, and she will trot them out and use them whenever she sees a food she wants! However, at least she IS communicating, and we are SO thrilled! It's also been QUITE helpful in reducing her screaming at least 75% and I now feel as if my nerves are recovering to a long extent! (When you again and again and again have unexpected ear-piercing screaming day after day, week after week, it does something really wierd to your nerves . . . at least, it did to mine . . . )

And best of all??? Katya started making the "s" and "t" letter sounds--IN HER SLEEP! ;-) Since she sleeps with Charity and Kristina, Charity alerted us to that important fact, and we and then the school, once we informed them, set about to work with her while she was awake to try to see if we could elicit them in her waking hours! I'm so extremely proud and thankful to tell you that Katya can and does make those sounds--and in addition, she is now making the "m" and "f" sounds! Everyone is feeling much more hopeful that this could be the very EARLY start towards speech . . . who knows, but it's certainly an encouraging sign! Her favorite group care-giver would be SOOO excited and proud if she knew, I know! She kept trying to impress on us that she had worked with the same orphanage for 20 years, and that she was SURE Katya was just as smart as any other kid--she just couldn't speak so no one knew. I figured that if she had worked at the same orphanage for 20 years, she just had a pretty good handle on the situation with Katya, and it gave me a lot of hope and courage.

Well, those of us who are working closely with Katya see so many, many changes in her each day as she becomes more secure and knows she is a loved and wanted child! And I can only imagine how many MORE changes there will be in the next 3 months if she continues on at the pace she is going! I hope some day we can send a video to the orphanage of Katya--SPEAKING. Wouldn't that just be amazing??! ;-)

Strep has Struck

2011-09-26T22:46:00.000-07:00

Poor Miss Katya is very sick with what turned out to be strep throat . . . we spent a good chunk of time in the ER tonight after spending a long day at the specialist. (4 hours *IN* the Drs office plus lots of travel time!)

Please keep praying for Katya and for us . . . I will try to post more when I can think more coherently but I did want to let you know that the Nuero Opthamologist did not see any swelling of the Optic Nerve that would indicate Inter-Cranial Pressure (or ICP). He admitted that just because he didn't see any thing today doesn't mean much except that today there isn't any ICP. He wants to continue to "closely follow" Katya with repeated check-ups to monitor it "as this is an evolving situation". I honestly was glad that he seemed to understand that particular aspect very well! Maybe better than some other people are understanding it.

In the meantime, Dr. K. is referring Katya for two more appointments at two different places (with then a follow-up with him again after them--so three new appointments) to try to determine what level of vision Katya does have and whether or not she needs glasses. Since Katya can not talk, it sounds like the appointments are a bit more of a hassle than a typical screening/exam would be for a child with speech.

And of course . . . because something just has to happen to keep our life from being dull . . . while sitting there with Katya listless and racked with fever in my arms, the fire alarm went off and everyone had to evacuate the building . . . so down and down and down the stairs from the 5th floor I had to try to go with a very sick and miserable little Miss Katya and out into the windy and drippy parking lot till the fire men all arrived and checked the building out and gave it the all-clear . . . Just thankful that after all that hassle, we did finally get seen by the Dr. even if it was 5:30 before we could get out of the office when her appointment for this was at 1:45 . . .

I'm also very grateful for my friend, Marian, going with me to to be our driver, keep my sanity and be my "camel" lugging my bag and our water bottles so I could carry Katya! May she NOT get strep and may she and her household be blessed because they were willing to show this kindness to Katya and us!

Disability Awareness Sunday

2011-09-25T20:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to some helpful friends of ours, we were put in touch with a church within driving distance that has a disability program. The program Director, Laura, has been very kind and helpful and supportive via email again and again since we brought Katya home. Indeed, sometimes her kind words and prayers were virtual life-lines to me during some dark and discouraging moments. Knowing that this resource was even available helped give me a extra shot of courage at times.Especially in the early days that felt so very overwhelming as our family struggled to adjust and cope, while Mom was still zonked out with jet-lag, and we were fighting not having a SS # OR medical insurance for Katya in the face of her ovewhelming medical needs!

Unfortunately, we weren't able to go to their big picnic yesterday which sounded like it would have been a ton of fun for our whole family due to Katya, Charity, and Chad all being sick, and yours truly feeling like dirt due to being up in the night with Katya for about 2 hours.

This morning Katya seemed to be feeling better, and a good night's sleep had done a lot for me, so those of us who were feeling well enough went out to the special church service, leaving Charity and Chad at home together to nurse their stuffy noses and coughs.

I was so thankful that we went . . . I can't tell you how many times I was in tears or near tears during the service . . . so many things ministered to me--the songs, the fact that the service was so full of people with obvious disabilities participating in the service in key parts, the genuine warmth and enthusiasm for Katya that we sensed, the story of the special speaker, Betsy Bolick who shared her journey as a person coming to terms with God's love for her and His plan for her life in the face of huge physical issues . . . we just really, really needed that support right now.

We plan to try to keep up with their Saturday program for families as much as we can this fall and winter. Kristina is very excited that she will be able to be a helper with the kids with special needs--and I think she will shine in that role. She's going to start out being Katya's buddy at first to help ease Katya's transition into the events, and then we will see what works out from there. I am grateful for this great opportunity for Katya and our family to find some practical emotional and spiritual support. Honestly, we have really been needing it.

Like I told someone today, you can adopt a child with multiple handicaps knowing you will want and need extra support--but you don't realize how BADLY you want and need it until you are right into the thick of it. While I'm very grateful for the online support and the in-person support we have, there is a real need for more in-person support and net-working. Thankfully, this church has heeded the call of God to reach out and try to meet that need.

For more information, and for ideas to perhaps start or enhance your own ministry to people who are challenged in various ways: http://www.zanesvillecma.org/disabilitypage.htm

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Tomorrow Katya, who is now going to school 5 days a week *without* Mommy or Daddy, will be taken out of school early so we can get her to an appointment in a larger city with a Nuero-Opthamologist. I am praying that through this visit, God will give definitive direction about our next steps for Katya's health. We have some pretty large concerns right now about what is going on with her walking--what started out as an occasional foot drag on one foot spread to both feet, and now is a almost constant thing. It went from being when she had shoes on to even without shoes--you can hear her feet as the "scuff" across the carpet. Saturday she lost her balance and almost pitched head first down the steps right in front of Paul's horrified eyes. Her gait has become strange and poor Katya has totally lost the once-graceful walk she used to have that we used to comment on. I feel scared and yes, frankly, angry at times. I feel like a lot of delaying has gone on when it was obvious her brain was growing rapidly and pushing her head out in new places . . . but each place wants to schedule appointments several weeks or more out in advance and so this process is dragging on and on while our daughter deteriorates before our very eyes.

Paul and I have come to the conclusion that if the Dr. tomorrow says, "No pressure on the brain" we are going to take serious steps to try to get whatever is going on looked at. Maybe even drastic steps. Please pray for Katya and for our family. When she had so many strikes against her, it's VERY hard to see her lose one of the things that was a huge positive in her life.

In the face of all this, we cling to God and to each other . . . .

Results of CT Scan

2011-08-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

Call from Dr. Carson's office. Katya's CT scan showed lots of good healthy brain. (No surprise there, for those of us who are learning to know Katya close up!)

The bad news is that parts of her brain show signs that indicate PRESSURE. No one knows if it's "past" pressure, or "current" pressure. If it's current pressure, then we have a problem that needs attention soon.

So, off to Neuro-Opthalmology and have a dilated eye exam to rule out papilledema--which will help Dr. Carson chart the next step for Katya.

Also, Katya started music lessons yesterday and her music teacher is VERY excited about her. ;-) She was so excited, she has offered to teach Katya for a much reduced price as she wants to help her blossom and grow. THAT was just the icing on the cake . . .and a true blessing from God!

I have so much more good news to report, but that will have to wait for another post. My blogging time seems pretty limited these days . . .thank you to all of you who are reading and praying for Katya and our family! We really appreciate the prayer support and the comments!.

Learning New Things!

2011-08-29T18:43:00.000-07:00

Katya is learning how to help fry the meat!

Scrub the potatoes

Rinse the potatoes

Peel the carrots

And keep on peeling the carrots . . .

And . . . AND . . . AND . . . Pet the cat!!!

Yes she is!!! She's still scared of him, but she's getting a LOT braver!!

Big News Too for Katya--she is going to go to SCHOOL this week for the first time! She will go for one hour on Wednesday with her Mama. I can't wait to see how she does with it! I'm sure she will be scared--so I'm very grateful that our local school's team had the good sense to invite me to stay with her the whole time. We are feeling very positive about working with them and are looking forward to seeing what all Katya will learn once she is given teaching each day. For right now, the amount of school she will be going to is limited to one hour a day, and several days a week. After about two weeks of that . . . the IEP team and we will re-convene and discuss what we want to do from there. But for now, we are trying a main-stream Kindergarten class with a teacher who taught Special Ed for 8 years before switching to the kindergarten teaching.

Paul and I feel really grateful so far for the positive interactions we have had. I'm sure as time moves on we may have our struggles at times with things--after all--we have been home-schooling for over 12 years now!--but for now, off to school Katya goes.

One More Thing--Katya is learning to play with toys!! She now will sit and play with Duplos and the Fisher Price Little People on her own some now! We are soooo excited at all the positive changes we are seeing in her in the last two weeks! YAY for progress!!!

Riding the Roller Coaster to the End--The All-Important CT Scan!

2011-08-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

Well, we have been on a roller coaster ride since last Friday, a week ago, when Dr. Carson asked us to get a CT scan done ASAP for Katya.

I will spare you all the ups and downs--the twists and turns--and the time we thought that the whole roller coaster had mal-functioned and was about to let us sit to so speak . . .

Meanwhile, during this scary ride, Katya's head has continued to get worse with current bulges getting larger, and new bulges forming. She obviously is in discomfort at times from the way she holds her head and looks.
So hard to have such a communication barrier at times like that!

Anyway, today we got up early and set out to Akron Children's Hospital to get the CT scan done. We ended up there because they could get us in this week. Once we arrived, Katya was able to get her CT scan done *without* any sedation or general anethesia! I'm sure that was in large part to the many prayers going up on Kayta's behalf! I also want to give a real shout-out to the Akron Children's team who worked so hard to help Katya understand what was going to happen and to reassure her--including their awesome Russian interpreter, Anya!

I was able to wear a lead shield over my body and lean in to the machine with Katya with my hand on her jaw to help keep it still, as well as to let her feel my touch. I'm not happy about the amount of radiation I was potentially exposed to, but it's all in the line of duty for this Mama!

The actual CT scan was very brief and then we had to wait a bit till they could print off a CD with the pictures of Katya's head/brain for us. The precious CD has now been overnighted VIA FedEx and should be waiting for Dr. Carson on Monday a.m. promptly, unless Hurricane Irene disrupts things too much! Hopefully not.

Monday will be a new experience for us--Paul and I will be meeting with the team of professionals from the local school to discuss Katya's needs and try to draw up a plan of action for her. We continue to see signs that make us very hopeful that with adequate education and therapy Katya has a great life ahead of us. So hopefully we will find great enthusiasm and a willingness to work for Katya's best good on Monday.

Craniosynostosis

2011-08-19T21:20:00.000-07:00

Craniosynostosis--what a big and ugly word

And what a mess it has made of sweet Katya's body.

However, Dr. Carson (who was just as warm, personable and caring in real life as I have always heard him to be) seems to feel like he has a good handle on the situation so far. He feels that Katya's worsening is due to rapid brain growth due to increased nutrition and food (hard to believe that by virtually starving her an inadvertant kindness was done to her!). He noted the foot dragging (now happening with both feet) and her clumsy steps--things which have changed for the worse since her head issues deteroriated.

The plan is for us to get a High Resolution CT scan ASAP. "And then make them give YOU the CD of pictures and you send it to me!" said Dr. Carson. "Don't let them try to tell you that they will send it to me. I KNOW you will get it to me faster than they will!"

After Dr. Carson gets the CT scan results, he will form a plan of action, based on what he can see of Katya's head. So we don't have all the answers we want, but we are at least on the right track now and moving forward.

Dr. Carson also laid to rest the idea that two of Katya's fontanels are not completely closed (which is what we were being told by other Drs.) He said he can see why they might have thought that but a careful examination shows that not to be the case. They are closed.

Well, that makes a LOT of sense to me because I couldn't understand why if they were open we were getting such a bulge on the top of the head as her brain grew . . . He said the reason they are still a "dip" though is because her sutures closed unevenly and at the wrong times . . . so you end up with a mess.

We asked Dr. Carson if he has ever had a case similar to Katya's before and he nodded that he had.

As he walked out of the door, he won my Mommy heart because he tossed this over his shoulder at me, "We are going to focus on LIFE from now on! I believe someday Katya will amaze the world!"

Yeah. Me too. Me too.

For Sale Items

2011-08-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

One of Charity's hand made flowers. This flower is made from up-cycled poly fabric. It is made so it can be worn as a pin on a dress or blouse, fastened to your bun with a hair pin, or a bobby pin slid through the loop on the back and it put in your hair elsewhere. You provide the fastener of your choice.

$9.00 shipped to the Lower 48 states via First Class mail.

Girls and grown women both seem to love Charity's flowers . . With a little care they will last a long time, and are a sweet way to have a special touch.

Email me at phdfam@gmail.com if you are interested in purchasing this pin. All proceeds go to help Charity's violin upgrade fund grow.

2011-08-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

For months, even before we adopted her, every time I prayed about Katya's medical needs, this was the face that came to me.

And this was the name that came to me: "Dr Ben Carson".

I am very grateful to God, and very, very happy to tell you that Katya has an appointment with Dr. Ben Carson on August 19th at Johns Hopkins. I don't know what our dear Doctor S. said to get Katya in to see Dr. Carson, because he only sees a VERY limited number of new patients per year, but Katya is in.

I have peace that we are walking the path God has called us to walk for Katya . . . I have faith that Dr. Carson, who believes in God and His almighty power, is the best Doctor for Katya at this point in her life. I don't know what all is ahead of us on this journey, but we are on the journey, and trusting that God who has preserved Katya's life thus far will be walking with Katya and with us each step.

If you want to know more, read "Gifted Hands" and watch the movie. I don't remember when I first read "Gifted Hands"--I think when I was around 20 or so?? So about 20 years ago . . . I always wondered if Dr. Carson had had access to my brother, Jeff, who died of a non-malignant tumor at the base of his brain, would Jeff's story been written the same? Who knows . . . I don't know . . .

But when I began praying about Katya's medical needs and Dr. Carson's face and name kept coming to me, and every where I turned it seemed that his name was popping up--even in the Sew Beautiful magazine (of all places!!), I knew I had to follow the promptings. When I researched and saw how few new patients Dr. Carson saw each year, I knew it would be a big thing and an "open door" sign for us if he agreed to see Katya! And he did.

Now granted . . . no one wants to be in that "elite few" category with their child . . . but you know what?? Since Katya does seem to be in the "elite few" with her head issues, I'm glad that a Dr. with years of experience is going to be the one looking at her! It's time to get some answers for Katya and get the process started to give her poor brain and head some relief!

Specific Prayer Requests:

* For baby sitting to work out for our children while we are gone

* For Peace and Comfort for Katya and all of us

Praise Reports:

* Katya was FINALLY added to our insurance!

* Katya has a SS number now!

What's Going on With Katya?

2011-08-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

She still SHRIEKS about the cat . . . but she's also very, very curious about him! I have PROOF taken just today!

Such a morose look on her face as she studied him from behind the safety of the glass!

Chad is finding ways to play with Katya inspite of all her attacks on his safety and well-being in the form of random attacks of pinching and biting . . . I think he'll win her over yet . . . cause the gal LOVES music and and he gets her and waltzes her around the living room to the sound of Tijuana Christmas on the record player!

As you can see, it's fun for them both!

You can also see how nice and thick her hair is getting--and LONG--from the pictures.

That's the good news . . .

The not so good news is that Katya's head shape is worsening. She's getting a big ugly ridge pushing up on the top of her head. The Dr. saw her yesterday and said that her head has definitely gotten way worse than it was just a few weeks ago. Katya also is "ouching" if her head is touched even lightly in that area. So it's become URGENT that she see a Dr. who is a specialist in cranio issues. We are working on trying to make arrangements for that.

Your prayers are very deeply appreciated. For anyone who knows about cranio issues, you know how worrisome this is, and how of ESSENCE time is in protecting the brain. Please pray for Katya that God's hand of protection will be over her little brain and protect it from further damage . . . and that her spirit and emotions will continue to heal and that the almost certainly needed surgery will be able to be done safely and in a timely manner.

Please pray for our other kids. This is very upsetting to them as well on various levels.

Bucket Bag Still for Sale

2011-08-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

The apron is spoken for, pending payment. However, the bucket bag is still around--$6.00 plus $2.75 shipping to the Lower 48 States. Intended to be a soft, fun little bag for wee hands to carry around their Legos, dolly clothes or whatever! Made by Charity with care in our non-smoking home.

Charity Needs Help--and Katya Helps Her

2011-07-26T19:27:00.000-07:00

Since this blog is mostly about Katya and the process our family has gone through to get her home, and her progress now that she is home, I wondered if this was the appropriate venue to share about Charity and her project, but I finally decided it was. It involves the star of this blog--Katya--in every which direction, so yes, certainly so!

Back in the late fall or early winter, Charity's violin teacher told her that she needed an upgraded violin. Hers was an inexpensive one as violins go, and her playing had surpassed what music she could coax out of it. He said that she needed to be thinking about a violin in the $1,500 price range.

Charity knew what he said was true, and was very excited at the thought of upgrading, but sweet and caring girl that she is, she told us she would wait to upgrade until after we got Katya home and paid off her adoption expenses. That way, she was able to focus on helping sew and craft for Katya's adoption expenses. Now that we have the adoption out of the way, Charity is ful swing in trying to finish raising the funds that she needs. She needs only around $400 more to upgrade her violin, since she can turn in the violin she has currently for credit towards the new one AND she had some money saved already towards an upgrade.

She has been busily sewing in almost every spare moment she has, as well as raiding her stash of vintage-like dresses that she has collected, with plans to sell them. Because her violin is very important to her. And she so badly wants to be able to get a better one soon that she's willing to sacrifice--just like Katya, facing a horrible future and possible death was so important to her that she was willing to sacrifice for Katya!

Now, Katya is trying to help Charity get her violin! Yes, she really is! I present the following photographic evidence of this for your pleasure! These photos were taken JUST TODAY so are "hot off the camera" so to speak!

What? You say you don't see how Katya is trying to help?! Well, Miss Katya has a real aversion to getting her photo taken! And yet look at her--here she is in this photo and all the rest, modeling the apron and bucket bag that Charity made to sell to help add to her violin fund! Just look at Katya!

Nicely trimmed Cobbler Apron with cordinating green polka dot fabric making the pockets.

Check out the hand stitching around some of the owls on the bucket bag! Charity is always looking for ways to ramp up her projects and take them from "ordinary" to "special"!

Katya, smart girl that she is, hung the bucket bag on the door knob all on her own!

Asking $15.00 for the apron, and $6.00 for the bucket bag if purchased separately. If purchased together, $20.00

These are made from quality 100% cotton that is brand new and from our non-smoking home. Made with care and precision by Charity, to help raise funds for her violin. Intended to fit a child in the 4 to 6 year age range, depending on size. Ties at the sides with ties. Pops off and on over the head. First come, first served, so please email at: phdfam@gmail.com if you are interested. We accept PayPal or personal check (item will not ship till it's cleared.)

Stay tuned for more items coming soon!!

Super Wonderful News!!!

2011-07-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

YES! I have finally finished crunching the numbers and checking the credit card statement for the airfare and other things that were charged during our trip and comparing it to our adoption account funds--and we are FULLY FUNDED!!!!!

I hinted that there were good things going on but never fully explained . . . and I want to take the time to do so now.

Shortly before we left for Ukraine on the second trip, someone that I have been online friends with for a long time, but never met in person, got in touch with me to ask if a interest-free loan that we could repay as we were able would help with the last financial crunch at that point to get Katya home. Paul and I gratefully accepted the generous offer, and thanks to that and some fund raising we had done, we were able to have the cash flow we needed for the trip. That was a huge weight from our minds, and we again thank God for this person who was sensitive to His voice in this way!!!

However, the burden and desire of our heart was still to be able to complete the adoption DEBT-FREE. Realistically, we knew we NEEDED to complete it debt-free.

It was hard to leave for Ukraine knowing we were thousands short of what we needed . . . but while we were stepping into the Jordan River so to speak, God began to part the waters . . . . Several large donations came in from individuals--and a church blessed us with $3,500 !!!!! We were able to be frugal on both trips, and so between the donations, fund-raising and what we were able to contribute ourselves financially (which we have done as much as we can this entire journey) we are able to pay back the loan in full, and find ourselves FULLY FUNDED. Well--except for the post-placement fees that our adoption agency charges for the post-placement reports that our State and their Agency require. However, that is somewhere around $900 and can be spread out over the next three years so we are calling this fund-raising journey DONE--FINISHED--COMPLETE--FINAL--ALL-WRAPPED UP and any other words you can come up with to sum it all up!!! What a journey it is has been!!!! And we thank you ALL of you who have helped for your very generous support in SOOOOO many ways!!! We coudln't have done it without you!!!!!! You have all literally taken part in SAVING A LIFE--Katya's Life!!!!!!!! We will forever be grateful to you for sacrificing in many ways to help give Katya the family she needs!!! May you all be blessed by God . . . and may He restore full-fold to you . . . and much more for your kindnesses to Katya and our family!!!

Some News

2011-07-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Katya was helping Papa rinse the dishes on Sunday. She's wants to be QUITE independent about it which doesn't make it easy to help teach her how to really do it . . . but at least she wants to help. Gotta hand her that, even if at this point she wants it all to be on her terms.

This photo was taken last evening by Paul. Truly, the evening with Katya is the best part of my day. She's happy to snuggle for about an hour while I rock her and it's my sanity saver. Parenting a child who has been allowed to live in her own little world for so long is NOT an easy task. I knew it would be hard--all of us knew it would be hard--but the sheer enormity of the task sometimes bowls us backwards as we try to get through each day. Only in God's strength are we being able to do it, and the prayers of everyone is very vital.

To further add to the stress of the situation, her whole insurance status is still hanging in limbo. (Yes, it is a long story . . . and I'm not getting into it all here.) And to further complicate matters, when we tried to apply for her Social Security number, we were told that the application is being rejected by the Department of H*meland S*curity. There is an error in Katya's paperwork some where . . . no one knows where yet as it's under investigation. Needless to say, we didn't need THAT stress hanging over our heads yet.

Each day when I am awakened by the sound of a little girl thumping and banging around over my head I have to pray quickly before I climb out of bed and ask God to give me the strength and grace to get through each minute of the day. I feel overwhelmed and unable to keep up with all that needs done. One of my children asked me, "If you choose to do this, do you have ANY right to voice unhappiness?" I told them that I knew God was calling me to do it--that was the reason I did it--obedience to Him. And obedience to Him doesn't guarantee that we are going to be comfortable or happy or find life easy! In fact, I seem to recall that Jesus' choice of obedience to His father, God, sure brought a lot of stress, challenges and physical and emotinonal and mental pain to Him. Paul and I both know God called us to add Katya to our family, and we are trusting Him that He has not brought her this far to turn his face away from her and us . . . No, I am positive that He has not! I don't know what all His plans are for her and us but I'm choosing to make the choice to trust Him each day before I get out of bed that He's going to get us through another day, no matter how hard it is. I'm choosing to trust that He's going to bring healing into her emotions and into her body. I'm choosing to trust that He will provide for her medical needs and therapy needs even though I don't see how yet. I'm choosing to trust that He has a perfect plan for her life even though things are hanging in the balance right now with the snafu (unknown as yet to us what it is!) in her documents.

So, even though Katya is home . . . I'm going to ask you to keep praying for her and praying for us . . . there are many needs. God knows what they all are and as His people pray, He can apply them to the needs. Thank you again for standing with Katya and us through this amazing and crazy journey!

Update On Katya

2011-07-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

Katya has now seen our family Doctor, the Osteopathic Doctor, and the whole International Adoption Clinic team.

Everyone feels that given the life she has led for the last 6 years, she is doing amazingly well, both physically and in her adjustment and bonding.

Katya is gaining weight! When we first brought her out of the orphanage, she fit into size 3/4 underwear with a lot of "bag" . . . she was simply skin over bone--it HURT literally to hold her on our laps because her hip bones dug painfully into our legs. Now she has some nice padding on her body--not a lot, but some and I expect her to continue to put on more weight if she keeps eating as she is. Now that she's learning that there is enough food for her, her "wolfing" is lessening . . .

Katya also already is clearly recognizing some basic words or phrases in English! "Let Mommy help you", "Wait", "Come to Mommy" and "Katya, go wash your hands!" She also recognizes, "What does Katya want?" and she knows that her is her "cue" to sign "more". She also will sometimes now spontaneously sign "more" when she sees something she wants to eat or if she truly wants "more" of anything she's already eaten! We are working hard on teaching her the sign for "toliet" and hope that at some point she will learn to sign that for us. In the meantime, taking her frequently to the toliet is working--she also is starting to take herself at times now.

Recognizing her bedtime routine has happened now as well--Katya will go after her bath, pick out a book and wait in the (very old and worn out) rocking recliner waiting for me to come snuggle her and read to her. I rock her usually for around an hour, and then take her up and tuck her into her bed. She generally pulls the blankets right over her head and goes quickly to sleep! She seems to be happy every time I tuck her into bed--I think the fact that she saw the photo ahead of time of her bed makes her feel connected and safe in her bed.

Lest you think all is peaches and cream, I will be honest and tell you that there are PLENTY of hard moments. The hardest is that Katya views Chad evidently as a threat to her and is really unkind to him again and again. We continue to address that and try to work with it, but so far we havent' succeded in getting the behaviors all stopped. I'm sure they are "survival of the fittest" behaviors and will lessen with time, but in the mean time it's being really hard on Chad and all of us . . . he's prayed and loved Katya so faithfully and persistently all this time that it's hard to see him hurt so much.

Katya is also testing, testing, testing! She obviously is thinking hard and trying to see what the boundaries here at home are. We've done bodily excretions, tantrums, clothing chewing and other assorted things . . . fortunately . . . we are able to keep a pretty good sense of humor most of the time and roll with it all and she's starting to realize that such behaviors don't punch our buttons and instead end up with her being the loser. Her tantrums have lessened in intensity and duration quite a bit, and a lot of other behaviors are seeming to lose some steam as well.

There is still much need for prayers for Katya and our family . . . . please continue to pray. And we will continue to try to update you as we can find a few moments here and there!

If you commented or contacted about buying an item...

2011-07-12T14:58:00.000-07:00

We have gotten emails and comments from people who said they wanted some of the souvenirs we brought back from Katya's country, but then never heard back. If you contacted us and still are interested in buying any of the items, please email at phdfam@gmail.com. Thanks!

2011-07-10T17:34:00.001-07:00

A Picture Speaks 1,000 words....

2011-07-04T11:35:00.000-07:00

At the airport...6/30

Asleep at home in her own bed.

A Katya-initiated hug with her "little" brother...

Mama teaching Katya how to hit a baseball

HOME--TRULY HOME!

2011-07-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

Katya slept in her own bed last night . . .

We are crazy busy as she needs supervised every single second. I will try to post some photos of her homecoming later . . .

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS PRAYED, SUPPORTED, AND HELPED IN SO MANY WAYS!!!! WE THANK YOU AND BLESS YOU . . . YOU HAVE HELPED SAVE KATYA'S LIFE!

And a special thank you to our friends who came last night to the airport to welcome us home. You do not know how very much we appreciated each and every one of you taking time in your busy lives to come show love for Katya!!

Next week we start taking her to Drs, hoping to try to get a clue of what types of needs she has and what can be done to meet those needs. There are many, many hours of medical appointments and therapy ahead of us, so thank you for continuing to pray for Katya and our family as we all wade though the adjustments that having the equivalent of a baby who can walk and run in the family brings! I have high hopes that as she is taught and related to, Katya will develop new and older behaviors, but in the meantime, she needs constant supervision to keep her safe.

God bless!

RELEASED!!!

2011-06-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

No longer an orphan, but a dearly loved and cherished daughter and sister! With great joy we welcome Katya Rose into our lives and soon to be, living with us in our home! For now, she's sleeping peacefully on a make-shift bed in an apartment in Uk*aine, after snuggling to sleep with Mommy. What an amazing thing to think about! In September of 2009, as I walked out of her life, I whispered into her ear, "Good-bye, Mommy loves Katya" in Russian, the language she understands. And for months . . . I could not tell her that again. . . I could only send her messages in my prayers and dreams . . . tonight . . I could whisper it again and again and again into her little ears . . . "Good-night, Katya, Mommy loves you!"

Thank You, Dear Father God, for saving one of the least of these . . . for rescuing her from the fate that awaited her without a Mommy and Daddy to love her, protect her, and fight for her best good. Thank you for giving her two sisters and two brothers who will love her and protect her and help her to bloom. . . and thank you for family and friends who have prayed for her and will continue to pray for her and love her no matter what. Thank you for the gift of Katya Rose to our family. Amen.

Praise Report!

2011-06-21T00:05:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot of good things happen in the last few days! I can't share all of them here until I am home, but one very important one that I know a lot of people have been praying about with us I can share!

Photos from yesterday evening--check it out!

Quite a constrast from the miserable eyes she had on Friday . . . and Mommy could press gently or firmly on her tummy every where and no flinching AT ALL!

That, friends is huge, as she was so protective of her tummy before we even when home for the 10 day wait, and would flinch at the lightest touch. And then came this past Friday with Katya writhing and crying when her tummy was accidentally pushed on in the course of trying to keep her safe in the car on our laps (no seat belts) and then how listless and still she got for the rest of the ride back to the orphanage, how she refused to drink her juice (which normally she greedily guzzled) and so on. I knew if she was still acting so "off" come Monday I would need to assert my rights as her Mother and check her out of the orphanage and obtain medical care for her. But it wasn't what I was wanting to have happen--for several reasons--one big one being that we could easily be here another week or more and this place is not set up for Katya and her special needs. It will be challenging enough to keep her happy and safe for just 3 or 4 days while we are completing the USA Embassy requirements and waiting to fly home!

So I'm so grateful to God for correcting whatever the problem was, even if it's a temporary correction! Would be nice if it was a permanent healing though! ;-) Thanks to all of you who have been interceding on Katya's behalf!

Also, Charity had a better night last night, in spite of us ending up needing to eat out twice yesterday.

At lunch time, the cleaning lady for the apartment showed up so we vacated the premises and walked to a nearby place to eat. The menu was entirely in cryllic with out any photos, so . . . um . . . how are we going to work this? Well, they sent us a waitress who knew some English, and she suggested a "meat soup" when I asked about soups. So meat soup and bread and water. . . With someone practicing their vocals in an apartment above us as music for our meal.

The soup was very tasty, with plenty of tiny cubes of meat.

And we could actually download a book to our devices to read thanks to their free Wi-Fi.

The setting was extremely pleasant as it was one of the outdoor dining areas that are one of the things I so love about this city. Unlike the little tables thrown on a patio that pass for outdoor dining in my area at home, where the sun beats down on you, these dining areas are under big awnings, with window boxes full of flowers, and a nice wood floor and all the other things that make it feel elegant and comfortable.

The price was not terrible--Just over $17.00 USD for the two of us. However, when I tell you that I purchased close to a week's worth of groceries for the two of us, plus some juice boxes for Katya, for around $70 USD, and *that* included some chocolate to take home, a box of laundry soap, AND a magazine, you will quickly see why we are mostly fixing our own food and 'eating in'.

Supper was more expensive. I think honestly we were over charged. But I was tired enough by that point and distracted that I didn't catch it in time to have our friend challenge it. Umm, all I'm going to say about the price is: OUCH! Double OUCH! I'm sure what we had for lunch was a lot healthier for us and defintely WAYYY cheaper. But the uniforms on the Mc-employees here in town are neat . . . way neater than in the USA! So I'm glad Charity got to see them . . .and since children were involved . . . McDonald's was where we needed to be last evening.

We are still waiting for paperwork to be processed before we can proceed with the USA Embassy requirements. We try to get to see Katya each day we can, and then fill in the rest of the time with reading books, Skyping friends, walking around the city, fixing food, cleaning up from fixing food, and doing laundry.

Specific Prayer Requests:

#1. For continued health and safety for all of us here, as well as our family back at home. We are currently split into three different locations which is hard on all of us, esp. as it means that right now for most of the week we are not able to Skype with Chad and Kristina. That is very difficult.

#2. For the paperwork to be processed in a timely manner, and for it to be done correctly.

#3. We may ask to change apartments due to the issues we are having still getting to the bus we need to get to Katya's town. Pray that if we are meant to do that the details would work out for us.

#4. Some specific unspoken requests.

And of course--PRAISE GOD that Katya was feeling so much better, and that Charity had a good night and is feeling fine this morning! ;-)

And Now Big Sister . . .

2011-06-19T23:36:00.000-07:00

. . . woke me up in the night at around 2:20 a.m with a hurting, upset tummy. Good thing we had charcoal and some Sonne #7 along. She spent time camped out in the bathroom just in case she vomited, but when Charity last spoke to me she said she was starting to feel some better and would probably soon go back to bed.

However, that kind of nixed our plans to go see Katya this morning. It's almost 9:20 a.m. and Charity is still deeply asleep. I've been puting away dry laundry, hung up what was in the washer to dry, started a new load, did some tidying up, have opened various windows etc. and she's still OUT even though I've been stirring all around her. I'm thinking of going back to bed myself, as my night was rather interupted as Charity woke me a few times over the course of it.

I can't figure out what would have done it, as we cooked all our own food yesterday and I was/am fine. Who knows. . . just thankful we got her over it--and hopefully no more as she took our "emergency dose" of Sonne #7 and so that only leaves us charcoal in case of another event.
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Yesterday our Sunday was different than we had thought. We weren't able to go to the church that we went to on our first trip as the pastor's wheels were unavailable to come pick us up. We hadn't found a working ATM yet to get more hrivna, so I didn't dare use a taxi to get to church and back. So we ended up walking to a park near by here. We sat on the bench and read our Bibles for awhile, had some discussion and then came "home" when the gnats drove us out. Thankfully in the course of our homeward walk, we ended up finding a wonderful, easy to use ATM at a slight angle across the street from our apartment! SCORE! Amazing how that took a weight of stress from my shoulders.

By that point it was late enough in the day here that we could catch part of a Sunday a.m. service from our local area via streaming internet while fixing our supper. ;-) So at least we got a little church! Thankful for that.
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With the exception of a small Saturday evening supper eaten out, we have been cooking our own food. We are eating simply, using local produce that is in season, and fixing one pan meals pretty much. There are NO cooking utensils such as spatulas or stirring spoons in this apartment, so that makes our cooking a bit interesting. We have a nice set of pots, but no way to flip eggs or any thing like that. Means we are limited to hard boiled eggs or gently stirring scrambled eggs (in a teflon skillet!) with a fork! Our other meals have been fried meat with finely diced potatoes, and then whatever else we have on hand. Last night we added a diced carrot, a can of corn, some ketchup and seasonings (I was smart and brought salt and Italian seasoning from home this time!) and some fresh dill. It was pretty yummy!

We WANTED some pickles to go with it, but neither Charity nor I could get the lid off the jar in spite of many valiant attempts. I joked that we--the brave and fearless women who are taking on this vast city--were conquered by a jar of pickles . . . Charity pointed out that if we had a piece of silicone, she's sure she'd win. I imagine, but alas, no sign of anything like that nor even a substitute for it. Anyone want our jar of unopened pickles?!

Pray for Katya

2011-06-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

We don't know for sure what is wrong, but we are becoming increasingly concerned for her physical well-being . . . seems she is having some stomach problems possibly that are causing her pain if her stomach is touched in the wrong spot with even the lightest and merest touch.

We are being told that her paperwork (passport) could take another 3 to 5 business days--starting counting on Monday. The USA Embassy closes the last Friday of each month to paperwork, so there is almost no way short of a miracle from God that we can get her home next week. And we aren't even sure about the following week due to hearing that they have some holidays that the USA Embassy is closed for duing that week. We know GOD KNOWS and has it all in His timing. Please pray for wisdom and patience for us, and for discernment about Katya's needs. Legally I am her Mommy, and responsible now for her care and well-being, so pray that God grants me wisdom.

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Today Charity and I slept in as long as we could, then ate a leasurely brunch of sausage, grapefruit, and yogurt with bread and butter. After we did some laundry, dishes washing and such, we got a taxi, went to the market (yes, we purchased some more goodies from Alexi's shop, folks !!) and had a grand time. We walked all the way back to our apartment--not sure how long of a walk it was but it felt good to get some good exercise . . . . we needed a day to de-stress after all that has been going on.

Continue to pray please . . . thank you!

Announcing . . . .

2011-06-15T12:57:00.000-07:00

Our third daughter, and 5th child, Katya Rose.

We have the official court decree in hand, declaring her Katya Rose Dueck, our daughter . . . thank God from Whom all blessings flow!!

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And for those who want to know . . . Katya's origional legal name was "Katerina". However, when we visited her day after day at the orphanage, and tried that name out on her, she didn't respond at all. She would not act like she had even heard us. Knowing she responded well to "Katya", we went with Katya for her legal name. Since it was the nickname we'd known her by for several years, it seemed only fitting. As to the "Rose" part of her name . . .there are several reasons that name came into the picture. One being that Paul and I like the name, have a dear friend we love by that name, and had Chad been a girl, his middle name would have been Rose. So when we were tossing around for name, choosing and discarding one after another, we finally went back to Rose and toyed with it. I kept thinking of the verse in Isaiah 35:1 and 2 a. : "The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the dessert shall rejoice and blossom like the rose and the autmn crocus. It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice even with joy and singing."

That is what we see for Katya . . .blossoms arising where formerly there was only dry land . . . waste land . . . dessert land . . . "

Thank you to all who have prayed for us and supported us in one way or another as we have journeyed to bring Katya Home! She's so close now . . . just a few more documents stand in the way . . . and those will be torn down soon . ..

Get a Quilt--Help Katya Home!!!

2011-06-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

Christie, a long-time aquaintaince of mine in the blogging/adoption world, has put up a silent auction for an antique quilt to help bring Katya home!!

Please check it out now! Do NOT WAIT, because the auction is ending on MONDAY.

http://minichfamilyblog.blogspot.com/2011/06/this-old-quilt.html

And if you would kindly spread the word, we would appreciate it. While we will borrow money if we have to get Katya home, realistically, we do not want to do that for some very good reasons.

#1. We do not want to be worrying about paying back debt when dealing with her many, many needs and the expenses involved.

#2. Realistically . . . we have FOUR adult sized people in our family, and will have THREE (count them) kids in booster seats. Guess what we drive?? A mini-van. See any problems there? Yeah, I thought so . . . that means a larger vehicle is on our fast nearing horizon. And needless to say . . . we haven't had a lot of extra money to squirrel away for a larger vehicle, because every extra penny has been going towards the adoption. We are choosing not to worry about this, because we know God has our back, but we want to be realistic.

So . . . yes, we appreciate you sharing the word with any of your antique loving friends about this lovely quilt . . .

Sweet Blessings--and Another Chance to Help!

2011-06-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

I got a phone call today, and then an email. A friend of mine, N., called me to tell me that her 11 year old daughter, had made a fleece blanket. And what did she want to do with it?? She wanted to donate it to us to help raise the money for Katya to come HOME!

How amazing and awesome is that?? How can we resist this little girl sacrificing HER creation to help save another child's life?

Her Mom wanted me to warn that it's not a professionally made blanket, but from the photo it looks like it's done quite well enough for snuggling!

Have a look!

So . . . here's the drill . . Anyone who wants this blanket . . . needs to make a donation in the next 24 hours to Katya's adoption fund--that can either be through our PayPal button OR the Reece's Rainbow button on the right hand side of the blog . . . ask God what size of donation HE wants you to make . . . ask Him to show you how to care for Katya the way this girl did . . .and follow His leading on the amount of the donation. Then drop a comment here and let me know you donated. When the 24 hours are up, we will have a drawing and one person who donated will get a thank you . . . the blanket will be shipped directly to you from the 11 year old girl, S, who crafted it with love for Katya!

Please share this post as well!

A Few Last Things

2011-06-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

How fun to have these matroishka magnets on your fridge! There are a total of FIVE available. Numbered ONE through FIVE, starting at the top and working down here.

SOLD #1

PENDING SALE #2 and #3

PENDING SALE #4

Asking $4.00 apiece PLUS shipping to the lower 48 states. Please indicate which numbers you are interseted in.

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AND THE LAST OF THE MATROISHKAS!

Yes, I'll confess . . . I couldn't get them all posted yesterday! And these are the best ones . . .

I got them from my friend, Alexi, who has faithfully and honestly served me on both of my trips to Katya's birth country--both in Sept. '09 and again this summer. He takes pride in his booths at the market and all his items are kept polished and clean, and his prices, while competetive, are honest prices. I trust what he tells me. And he told me that these sets are painted by a leading artist in Katya's birth country, with high quality acrylic paints and much attention to detail. Because he is a friend of Alexi's, Alexi has "dibs" on the items. You will notice the difference in that they are also not "glazed". Due to the attention to detail, they are more expensive as well. I have to ask $16.00 a set plus shipping for each of these, but I believe you will be VERY pleased with them.

Numbered in order from top to bottom--please specify which set you wish to purchase! (Tallest figure is around 4 inches tall)

PENDING SALE #1

PENDING SALE #2

PENDING SALE #3

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And the weest . . . tiniest . . . funniest . . . little matroishkas! (not from Alexi's shop--found them in another shop). These are "glazed" in the standard fashion.

And for comparison, so you can see HOW TINY they are . . a dime. (Charity used a sticky pad to keep them from falling as the last two figures are miniscule.)

Would prefer to seel these two as as set. Because of how tiny they are, the price is higher due to the difficulty in carving and painting them. (Charity recommends a display case!) $21.00 for the set. Or $11.00 a piece.)

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And . . . ONE LAST FLEECE BLANKET . . . made by yours truly here in the USA with new materials. . .

Approx 47 inches by 51 inches.

PENDING SALE --Asking $38.00 plus shipping.

And that my readers, is all that I think we have . . . We leave in just 5 days from today!!!

Third Batch of Items for Sale

2011-06-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

Matroishka toothpick holder

$9.00 plus shipping

SOLD

~~I would prefer to sell these three wooden painted eggs as a set. Asking $13.00 for the 3 plus shipping. If someone is set on only buying one at a time, asking $5.00 a piece plus shipping.~~

When these are gone, that is it--I don't have any more! So first come, first served for these lovelies! I feel that of the eggs we looked at, these were some of the finest in the market in terms of quality.

SOLD

~~Birch bark barette. Beautifully carved. Asking $8.00 plus shipping.~~

SOLD

~~Hair fastener . . . carved intricately from birch wood.~~

~~Just check out this beauty!~~

~~$10.00 plus shipping to the lower 48 states.~~

SOLD

~~Unique tea light candle holder!~~

~~This is the first time I have ever seen these black laquer painted tea light candle holders. What a fun idea!~~
~~Asking $13.00 with shipping~~

SOLD

~~Rich vibrant colors on this candle holder with a dark blue candle~~

~~Asking $13.00 with shipping~~

Enjoy shopping!!! PayPal is currently misbehaving, so checks appreciated . . . . contact me at: phdfam @ gmail.com (take out spaces) for further info.

More Items FOR SALE

2011-06-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

Here is another batch of items for sale. Remember that the proceeds from this go to help pay the expenses of our second trip and BRING KATYA HOME!

PENDING SALE

I love the barette above! Beauitfully painted in the black laquer style, it is approx 4 inches long and 2.5 inches wide at the widest point. It has a metal barette fastened to the back. This is a gorgeous item that is signed by the artist on the back, indicating a high quality souvenir from Katya's birth country.

~~Asking $10.00 plus shipping.~~

SOLD

~~This is also a lovely barette, and about the same size as the barette above. Done with the same attention to detail and quality. Also signed.~~

~~$10.00 plus shipping~~

~~SOLD~~

~~Smaller barette--4 inches by 1.5 at the widest point. Asking $8.00 plus shipping for this lovely hair item.~~

SOLD

~~Sweet blue flowers adorn this barette--same measurements as above. Also asking $8.00 plus shipping.~~

SOLD

~~Brooch painted in traditional pattern. $8.00 plus shipping~~

SOLD
~~Traditonal brooch pin $8.00 plus shipping~~

Please share these blog posts widely and ask your friends to visit . . . . we want to raise what we can to bring Katya home!

First Batch of Items for Sale

2011-06-07T07:39:00.000-07:00

Front View

Matroishka Key Chains

(Aprox 1 and 3/4 in tall plus chain)

$3.00 each plus shipping

ALL SOLD

Back View

SOLD
~~Five Piece Traditional Matroishka~~

SOLD
~~This adorable 5 piece set is one of my favorites! Juset check out the details on the cute faces . . . and again, the cat and the chicken! Tallest figure is approx. 4 plus inches tall.~~
~~Asking $11.00 plus shipping.~~

SOLD
~~5 piece Matroishka Set~~

~~Approx 3 and 3/4's high at the tallest figure. This is cute, basic set with a Mama, a Papa, a boy, a cat and a chicken. The chicken is a bit "wobbly".~~

~~ASKING $10.00 PLUS SHIPPING~~

SOLD
~~This set is evidently done by the same artist as the set above. They look adorable together . . . Again a generous 4~~
inches high with 5 figures.
Asking $11.00 plus shipping.

I am always happy to combine shipping on items.
I accept payment VIA PAYPAL or personal check with approval.. If you choose to PayPal, then please figure the extra for the PP fees since we are trying to keep our prices low, and yet still raise money.

Please contact me at: phdfam@gmail.com if you are interested in an item. First come, first serve.

An Approximate Price BreakDown

2011-06-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

Here is an approximate Price Breakdown for 2cnd Trip to Complete Katya's Adoption Process

Airfare: Projected Cost: $4,000 (could be slightly more or less depending on airfare at time of return home, but this is based on what it is costing for tickets for me and Charity to get out there, and of course, when we return home, Katya will be accompanying us!)

Lodging and Meals for two weeks: $1,400 (figured at around $100 a day, which we found to be a fairly good average when in country the first time--this could be more or less depending on the cost of lodging, how long we must stay in country, and how the dollar value holds or does not hold)

Passport for Katya--$600.00

USA Embassy (VISA etc.) --$550

Transportation while in Country--unknown as of yet

Misc. expenses (they always come up!)--unknown

Food and drink while in airports--unknown, but it adds up quickly!

So approx known costs are around $6,550, so I think a safe estimate to say we need to raise would be in the $8,000 plus range.

We are still working on trying to collect our info from our first trip but it looks like we will have several hundred dollars over and above what we had budgeted (since we were able to come home before the 3.5 to 4 weeks it could have taken, plus we tried hard to live frugally while there, walked or took cheap public transportation most of the time, cooked most of our food at home etc.) If there is really left-over funds (once we do all the math of what we charged to our credit card), then it will be applied to the second trip.

But roughly . . . we still have around $7,700 probably--maybe a bit more--to fund raise for! I will ask Amy to set up a new therm to reflect that.

Please share the link to this blog and ask others to pray and visit our blog as we post items for sale today . . . With the help of so many people . . . we believe we can knock this sum into the dust and be on our way to Katya again!

Just a LIttle Something . . .

2011-06-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

Amy, the webmaster here, and a friend of ours, has been busy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jWCm94BGhY

Enjoy!

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We have been busily unpacking and doing laundry, welcomed our 3 youngest back home, and are trying to cope with our jet-lag.

Hopefully fund raising items start showing up tomorrow! Be prepared to spread the word! We have very little time left to raise the funds we still need--Charity and I will be flying out to Katya's country on JUNE 13th!!

Home!

2011-06-05T19:17:00.000-07:00

We arrived safely home this evening after a very long day . . . I've been up around 30 hours or so now and am very weary . . . although thankfully I did catch some naps on different flights.

I will be trying to get more info up about fundraising in the next 24 plus hours (AFTER I get some sleep!) as we have only about 6 days to raise the air fair and other fees and expenses we will have on the second trip.

Thank you for praying for us . . . we love you and appreciate ALL of them.

Do You Know What This Means?

2011-06-03T03:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right--COURT. We got word last evening that court would take place at 9:30 a.m. this morning. Unfortunately, it turned out that 9:30 a.m. translated to 11:15 a.m. so we had a long time to sit and wait . . . In the picture with us is the Deputy Director of the orphanage (a very sweet woman who I respect from every thing I know of her) and one of the "inspectors". In addition there was our facilitator, Nastya, who functioned as interpreter, the Judge, the court secretary and someone who was allegedly the Prosecutor.

After court, we were dropped off by Nastya at the Metro station and made our way back to our apartment. We are grabbing a bite to eat, and cleaning up and will go out to see Katya one last time before we head home early Sunday a.m. (Saturday visits don't seem to be allowed at her orphanage.) We will be home around 5 or 6 days, and then the current plan is for Hope Anne to return with Charity to complete paperwork and bring Katya home . . .

We will announce her new name when the 10 days where someone could challenge this case, are up and she is legally ours.

Pray for Katya. I know us suddenly disappearing is going to be hard on her, but we need to go home for our other kids sake. Also, Paul has been away from his work long enough during the busiest part of the year . . . and someone needs to escort Charity over so she can assist with the home trip with Katya. Sometimes I thought we were maybe being too wimpy by thinking getting Katya home was a job for two people but I felt better after the facilitators were concerned that I not return alone. They were relieved when they found out Charity was coming to help; due to the severity of Katya's special needs, they felt it was a two-person job. I definitley agree!

Thanks for praying . . . please continue to pray . . .

For Your Viewing Pleasure . . . From Today

2011-05-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

And . . . in answer to the prayers of God's people that were going up . . .the ralcitrant official "did his duty" (per a inside family joke) and signed our paperwork . . . No court date yet, but at least our case is being processed again. Praise God!!!

Updating . . . .

2011-05-24T05:37:00.000-07:00

Today was our 4th visit with Katya. She was quickly responsive to both of us, but made it clear she wasn't comfortable (at first) with Papa walking around with her without Mama. By the end of the visit, she was a lot more comfy with him again. She also came up to him when it was time to walk back with her group and when he asked her if he was supposed to carry her again she was ready to go right into his arms. She fussed a tiny little bit when she had to go in to the building but it was pretty subdued so it seems we have hit on a transition plan for her where she realizes she will have to part from us but it's not a shock to her system so she copes with it better.

So far we know that she can make a very angry noise, a startled noise, and a giggle for when she's happy. Those are the only three sounds we have heard her make, but we are glad for those three! She imitates us VERY quickly and we have started having her do the ASL sign for "more" when she wants another bite of the snacks we are bringing in. She obediently imitates us. I don't know if she knows really what it means, but she does imitate, and hopefully with time she will get it.

She will need massive help to get her body straightened back out I think, and it would appear that she also needs some dental help . . . she seems to be in some pain with her teeth or jaw . . and on Day 3 her one side of the lower jaw was swollen.

Since we gave her the juice and snack early on today, hoping that she would have time to get it out of her system enough to be ready to enjoy lunch, I think I also saw her "I need to go to the bathroom" signals today shortly before the play time was done, as well . . . that consisted of pulling up her dress and clutching . . . so I'm thinking we'll have to work on teaching Katya some new signals! But at least she has something that I can interpret for starters! (I'm thinking that the capri leggings for under her dresses we were talking about sound more and more like a good idea too. ;-) )

Getting to learn to know our daughter-to-be (God willing) in the "comfort" of her orphanage routine and life is interesting to say the least. When we adopted Kristina, we only had a total of four hours with her, and ALL of those were separated from her playmates in a room she normally did not go in. By now, we have spent way more time with Katya than we had with Kristina when she was moved in with us immediately after court! While this process is hard because it requires so much time in country, I'm also glad for the chance for Katya to get to learn to know us much more gradually . . . I think it's healthier for her in so many ways. Yes, I want to scoop her out NOW and get her the help she needs NOW but that would be too traumatic for her. She seems really fragile in her body AND spirit . . . and I know a gentle, slow approach all the way around for every thing right now is what she needs.

Now, I know you are dying for pictures . . . at least, some of you are . . So . . .

The interesting front of a store we walk by each day on our way to "our" little market

A little further down the street is a bath store . . . this toliet gives new meaning to the phrase, "sitting on the throne", doesn't it?! Also check out the corner of the SINK with a world map on it on the lower right hand side.

Front lobby area of the orphanage

Katya seems to very much enjoy her juice and snack time. Today about 45 min. after we gave it to her, she finally seemed to have some energy and got up and began running around and playing a bit on the play equpment instead of just being fairly listless.

Here she is hopping around in the small play area they are allowed to be in. (Large play area is divided into sections, and they are to stay in their section.)

She likes to keep something in her hands . . .

Today she spent a lot of time making eye contact and searching Daddy's face .. . also she held his finger for awhile similar to what a new born baby would do. We rejoice in each sign of her wanting to connect with us!

Pictures from Trip 2

2011-05-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

A photo of the metro station on the way to Katya

Katya was eager to look at the books and photo album we had brought the day before again.

The angle I was sitting at, plus the fact that at that point I was having to physically block my purse and our backpack from digging little hands made it hard to get a good photo, but Daddy's strong warm hands are cradling Katya's face, and she LOVED it. After that, she began showing a lot more interest in this Papa-guy.

And if I look like I was crying here it was because I was. Just check out the peaceful look that came to Katya's face after Papa's hands cradled her.

Paul'[s first few seconds holding Katya.

Before we left, he had her all snuggled up in his arms, rocking and singing to her. She obviously loved this, and when the caregiver came and told her it was time to put her toys away and come, that was when the anger and "keening" started.

Tomorrow we see her again, God willing! ;-)

Day 2 Wherein Katya Begins to Learn to Like Daddy

2011-05-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning we left our flat at 7:50 a.m., heading out towards Katya. We had an adventure filled trip getting there, and did not arrive until around 10:15--45 min. past when visiting time started. We were seriously bummed, but grateful to be there.

Navigating public transportation in a strange language is an adventure at best . . . we walked, rode two different metro lines, a bus, AND a taxi to arrive at Katya's orphange. It cost us a total of about $7.00 USD to get there. We were dropped off at the wrong stop in spite of my protests--it was for the OTHER Detsky Dom in Katya's town. And while she's not in a huge city, it's a LONG, LONG walk between the two. That's where the taxi-driver came to our rescue--once we were able to make some phone calls and obtain an address for him finally from a facilitator.

When we arrived, the Director's Secretary who knows a bit of English was just heading up stairs and I was able to get her attention and ask about Katya. She showed us where to go to get to her in the outdoor play area again.

Again, she was swinging, holding toys in her hands as she had been the day before. I was grateful to see that it was a different set of toys. Those of us who have lived with a child on the autism spectrum will know without further explanation WHY I was relieved and grateful to see that it was a different set. ;-)

Katya was shy for a few minutes, but warmed up quickly and without much to-do. I soon had her out of the swing and in my arms, and almost immediately she let out this little sigh again as if tension was fading from her--before I even had rubbed her back!

We went to sit in the same gazebo we'd sat in the previous day. Soon a caretaker came and with gestures showed us we should leave and go to another gazebo as she wanted to play there with the littler group of children.

When I got up and began walking away with Katya holding my hand towards the other gazebo, she began whining and "keening". No tears--just this noise of obvious unhappiness. A caregiver came bustling up and took her hand to lead her, thinking she was unhappy about me like she had been the day before when they first tried to leave Katya alone with me. But Katya began REALLY fussing! The caregiver shrugged, and let go of her hand, and Katya zipped right over back to me and grabbed MY hand again. WOW! Once she realized that I was staying with her in the new gazebo, she shut right up. ;-)

It was very challenging because we were mobbed by the other children . . . the things we saw and heard today would just break your heart. The other kids are so hungry for the love they see Katya getting . . . and some of them become obviously ANGRY when they can't get us to agree that we are their Mama and Papa too. I know better than to plant false hopes in their hearts . . . Yes, I told Katya in '09 that I was her Mama and loved her, but I *knew* in my heart God was calling her to our family. I can't allow these precious children to think I'm their Mama . . . and so I gently tell them, "Nyet--Katya's Mama." They protest . . . and one little girl, after nothing persuaded us to tell her that we were HER Mama, gave us the ugliest come back she could think of--"POOP! POOP!" she proclaimed in her language. (I don't know how to spell the word in their tongue correctly.) The raw hunger in these childrens eyes as they see Katya being rocked in our arms is heart-breaking. The anger as they realize its not for them is even worse.

Having experienced all that we did even at this good orphanage left us emotionally drained and praying for God to raise up more families who will heed God's call to orphans. I am so thankful that Sunday we are invited to share our testimony with a local church of believers about God's call on our family for adoptions. PLEASE PRAY WITH US CHURCH THAT GOD WILL TAKE OUR SIMPLE WORDS AND USE THEM TO STIR CONVICTION IN THIS CONGREGATION. The Pastor and his wife have shared with us that the old-school of thoughts about orphans and adoption is still very prevalent in their church, and they would like to see that change. Please pray that God is able to plant a seed here . . . We will be speaking in English, with the pastor interpreting to the congregation, so pray for us. The service is about a 2 hour service, all in the local language. Should be interesting. ;-)

Now, back to Miss Katya . . . Paul and I had determined that while I would take the lead in working on bonding with Katya, we would try to ease her into a relationship with him. We had no time frame, no set ideas of how or when this would happen. We just planned to take it a step at a time.

Well, when we were talking about how painful Katya acts like her mouth/jaw is, I touched my hand to her cheek, and she immedately just dropped her head into my hand.
Her face became so peaceful and happy, and I began crying tears of joy as I saw the looks she was giving us.

So Paul reached over to try it, and she just laid her head right into his hand. So he put his other hand on her other cheek, and you could just see her melt. She started releasing those little "tension is going out" sighs and was obviously relaxing with Paul. He eventually reached out to take her to his lap, and she went without any problems to him--unlike the day before when she really wanted nothing to do with this strange man calling himself Papa.

Our visit ended with Katya snuggled down in Papa's arms and him rocking and singing to her. She obviously enjoyed this . . . and was very peaceful and content.

When the care givers came and told her it was time to go, she did go put her toys back in the box but as reality hit her, she began "keening" again, walked up to one of the little boys who had stood around so hungily watching us, gave him a huge shove that sent him flying backwards, and marched off keening and obviously upset.

I walked up and took her hand and she calmed waaay down, and I kept telling her, "Mama loves Katya. Bye, bye." She still was upset, but was calmer and quieter, and by the time we got to the door, she went inside without too much noise. It seemed to me like maybe she shut down though . . . not sure. I don't know her good enough yet. It was definitely obvious that she LIKED being with us, felt protective of her "rights" (because when the other kids would encroach too much she would shove at them--although once she realized we wouldn't allow them to pull away her things or ruin her attention from us, she became much less aggressive and allowed us to handle it more and more.)

So, Visit 2 was definitely a success . . . Sadly, we won't see her again until Monday . . . and I imagine she's going to be ticked off again and I'll have to work to get her happy again. We'll see.

I regret the lack of photos, but blogger will not allow me to add any today.

Katya Meets Mama Again, and Papa for the First

2011-05-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Katya seemed to remember Mama and was initially a bit ticked at her it seemed, but that started melting away. By the end of the visit, she was sitting fairly relaxed on my lap for about 30 min. just looking and looking at the photo album of her new family and another simple picture book I had brought along. She was very shy with Papa and only at the end when I asked (after looking at and naming who was who in the photo album) "Where's Papa?" she gave him a fast sideways look and then whipped her head the other way, and giggled fit to beat the band. Needless to say, since her new Papa is a tease, that one got him square in the heart. ;-) After spending the 1.5 hour we were allowed with her observing her and her interactions/reactions Papa has declared that he's just as sure as I am that she's "in there" and just doesn't know how to let it out.

One thing that was very poignant . . . as I gave her little back a deep pressure massage, she began to let out these little breaths of tension releasing . . . and even afterwards now and then as she relaxed against me . . . you could hear one escape . . .

So even though her body needs so much help and attention, and I'm sure we will absorb new things today in that regards, there is much reason for hope . . . . much reason to believe Healing Will Come. After fighting for this girlies life for so long, it was surreal to hold my daughter of the heart in my arms again . . . I can see how God used that trip in 09 in SO many ways though . . . to open the doors NOW. I will have to blog more another time . . . time to get ready to see our girl again! Keep prayng. Prayers are much, much needed.

Finally Moving

2011-05-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

We started our day at 4:30 a.m. this morning . . . (and I'd been awake since 3:15). Made it safely to the airport, got on our flight . . . . and actually had LEG ROOM in in the Emergency Exit row . . . AND our plane took off and we actually made it to Atlanta on schedule! YAY!!! We leave around 3:00 p.m. to Paris, France. After all our joking about how we were going to GERMANY, NOT Paris, France . . . we end up going to Paris, France! Paul had to laugh . . . and of course, so did I! ;-) I'd been teasing him all along . . . "we COULD go to Paris, France, Paul!" and he'd smile and say, "We're going to Germany." So it became a running joke . . .

I'm so thankful that before everything went crazy yesterday God had given me this verse as I sat on the plane reading my Bible on the IPAD (LOVE LOVE that I can do that . . . ) "Behold, I have given you authority ad power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you." Luke 10:19 in the Amplified Version Right after I read that, and highlighted it (love that feature too!) the Stewardess announced we should stow our electronics.

(I did tell you all that the speech therapist recommended we obtain an IPAD to start trying to use picture communication with Katya, right?! Anyway, with the help of a friend, we were able to get a like-new IPAD that was used for a reasonable price, and I honestly like it so much that if Katya does well with it and uses it for her primary method of communication I will be forced to save my pennies up for awhile to get another one for me! I am loving being able to take two versions of the Bible with me easily, loving the calendar feature, being able to have books and music at my fingertips etc. Also, due to my poor vision, the ability to increase point size, alter the brightness/background etc. to make things easier to read is very helpful for me. Yup--loving my IPad . . .)

Thank you to all of you who have been leaving comments and praying for us. We enjoy reading the comments and appreciate ALL the prayers very much!!! I would esp. appreciate prayers for my right eye as I woke up with it feeling tender and like I'd bruised it . . . I have no clue what I could have done that would have done that, but the pain has grown worse since I'm up, and every blink is a twinge of pain. No clue what is wrong, so I def. need God's healing hand as we prepare to head out over the ocean.

Travel Updates

2011-05-14T15:08:00.000-07:00

This is Amy here posting. I'm the webmaster in case you didn't know.
The Duecks' arrived at the airport and after a thirty minute delay, discovered that their plane was grounded due to mechanical failures which had no expected repair time.
So they are now packing up luggage and taking a shuttle to a hotel and tomorrow morning they have a new flight out. It doesn't have a layover in Germany like they were hoping for but it's better than nothing, they will still get there.
Prayers are still appreciated.

We Have a Pad!

2011-05-11T07:27:00.000-07:00

We are leaving on Saturday for Katya's country, so it's very good that we finally were able to confirm our "pad" for at least the first 2.5 weeks of our stay. We are only reserving for that long and will add on days as needed--but that COULD potentially mean a move for us. (Hopefully not.)

I present you our lodging for the next while . . . get a an eyeful.

I laughed so hard when I first saw photos of the bedspread! "When life throws you lemons" and all that . . . I bet I laugh every single time I walk into that room!

Miniscule kitchen, but it will work for two of us.

Clean and neat.

While I would LOVE to blather on about what all is going on . . . I do NOT have time . . . so I will end this with two very important requests:

#1. Please pray for this trip. Pray for safety for us and our family--for wisdom and patience for those who will be caring for our brood. Pray for our children as none of them have ever been so long without their parents as this first trip sounds like it will be. It's esp. hard for all of them that we currently have no definite return date. Pray for Kaya's heart to be prepared for our entrance into her life . . . for bonding, and for wisdom for us as we attempt to open doors of communication with her. Also pray for us to be filled with God's love for those will be interacting with . . . that God's Spirit will be shinning from us cleanly.

#2. Please pray about funding for our second trip. While our first is fully funded (Oh thank you, Dear God, and all His people who helped!) we still need approximately $8 thousand dollars for the second trip. The cost of airfare is rapidly rising, and so that is just a rough estimate--it may end up being closer to $9,500 we need.

Even though we have no real fundraisers going on at the moment you can still purchase items from MomAwake's Estsy shop (on the right hand side bar of this blog--scroll down to it) where she sells lovely clothing items for 18 inch dolls. A portion of each purchase goes to help Katya come home. Also, there are still the donation buttons on the side bar. The Reece's Rainbow button for our FSP is TAX DEDUCTIBLE for you. The PayPal button that comes to us is not tax-deductible, but funds are still appreciated.

Again . . . please be in prayer for both of those requests. Thank you . . . and cotinue to follow along as we BRING KATYA HOME!!! We ~~beg, plead and grovel~~ welcome comments and (respectful) questions! Knowing others are praying or interested truly does help! And since Paul and I are both pretty social people we enjoy contact with others and will find it helpful while we are in-country and missing our kiddoes!

THIS WEEK

2011-05-07T21:41:00.000-07:00

This week, we leave for Katya's country!!!

My list of things to do grows by the day . . . YIKES! It's hard not to feel panicky . . . but I know it's going to be OK some how.

Now on top of every thing else, Charity is vomiting. I hope she's the only one who gets hit with that bug because we do NOT have time to lose ANY time with illness . . .

Really earnestly covet your prayers . . . there were some significant changes made to how court dates are assigned in Katya's country, and it has the potential to impact our adoption procses in a lot of ways--negatively.

Regardless of all of this . . . I know God is on the throne! He is in control! I want to choose to keep trusting Him and His timing and purposes . . .

Please pray for our children. It tears my Mommy heart up to be going so far away from them and not know when we even get to come back and be re-united. The changes could potentially mean now that we need to come home before court due to increased wait time . . please pray that God will direct us in all of our steps, and help us to stay calm and focused on Him.

Nesting?

2011-04-29T18:41:00.000-07:00

It must be nesting . . . (if in doubt as to what on earth I'm talking about, you can read here: http://www.mamashealth.com/pregnancy/nesting.asp )

Yeah, it sure feels like it . . . except I wouldn't say I have a surge of energy physically . . . but mentally . . . my brain is racing with a gazillion things I want done, NEED done . . . MUST GET DONE . . .

Sorted through Chad's clothing today and bagged up his too-small-items. I have two of the Gymboree drawstring bags full. Anyone local-ish interested in them for a donation to Kastya's adoption account? There are all kinds of things ranging from dress clothing to every day to socks and underwear. Mostly 5-6 in size.

Painting is going on too . . . The bathroom is changing from the blue it was to a warm peachy/yellow color. I can't wait till it's all finished! Charity helped me figure out how to change the two pictures on the wall to something in line with our new decor. I was commenting that the framed (thrift store) fish weren't going to fit in any more, but I didn't want to spend the money to get something new, NOR did I want to wait till who knows when I might find something suitable at the thrift store. Charity reminded me that we could tear the paper backing from the frames, pop out the fish pictures and put in a sheet of scrapbooking paper that would fit with the decor. I loved the idea, and it will be quite like we can find something suitable in our stash of scrapbooking papers. If not . . . I'll wait for a sale and snag one for pennies. The frames are a white wood so perfectly suitable for the new look without any to-do.

And . . . believe it or not . . .when I went to buy paint for the dining room and kitchen, in spite of attempting to slightly change the color, I ended up with something that was very nearly the same! It's so close it's hard to tell where it was painted and where it was not. At least it will be fresh and clean looking, and the bleed-throughs and the chips will be dealt with. And . . . the other good thing is that we are getting a good thorough cleaning with dragging every thing out and sweeping behind it and wiping down the corners and all that goes along with painting. So it's all good . . . and yes, it does feel like nesting. I think I am nesting. Why wouldn't I be??? In two weeks from tomorrow . . . we are heading for Katya!

So Many Things . . . .

2011-04-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

There are so many things keeping me busy lately . . . . in just slightly over TWO WEEKS we leave for Katya's country. Can you believe it?! The time is almost here! And I feel almost frantic at all that needs to be done before we leave!!! I haven't even started on the major things that need done just because the day to day life stuff seems to be keeping me so busy!!

On top of every thing else, dear friends of ours desperately need work, so we have been hiring them to do a few painting projects around the house. We are REALLY glad to be getting those things done, but it wasn't on the agenda to do *now* originally.

One those projects is painting our main bathroom that had to have the ceiling replaced due to the sheet rock molding . . . NOT a good thing. We think that the house had some defective sheetrock, because not only did the bathroom ceiling mold all along the edges where the ceiling and wall met, we had several spots in the kitchen area develop "bleed through" spots that were yellow and appeared to some what blister the pain off . . . No amount of scrubbing would clear it up, and it was ugly. It is now properly covered with Killz, and tomorrow the repainting of the dinning room and kitchen is to begin. Hopefully all the painting will be finished up next week and we can put the house back to rights.

Then there is some necessary shopping. Paul's wardrobe in particular is in sad need of some help before we go, and since he needs a pair of comfortable walking shoes and some pants . . . he needs to go shopping with me. He's been working LONG hours each day or else is out of town working, so shopping hasn't happened. It's got to happen SOON, or . . . we will have a problem!

Then, there are the Hallmark Recordable Books . . . http://www.hallmark.com/online/in-stores/storybooks/recordable-storybooks/ I purchased one for Kristina and one for Chad with coupons. But to try to find the time to record them when neither child is around . . . . OUCH! I'm starting to feel the pressure mounting. And yes, I am bound and determined that each of my two littles will have Mommy record one of those books for them because I know having me gone for 3 weeks is going to be very hard on both of them short of a divine miracle. They never have been gone from me for more than one week, and both of them thought that was hard enough.

And there is present wrapping (just mainly small things picked up at the Dollar Tree or similar . . . ) so the children will have a couple of presents a week that they can choose to open if they are having a particularly stressful day while we are gone. Even though it's only a few presents per kid per week, it adds UP !!!

And a photo book for Miss Katya . . . . (yes, I feel more pressure--but maybe I can delegate this job to Charity and Kristina?).

And then there is making a book of maps, phone numbers, a schedule etc. for our baby-sitter. (Yup, this is one that Mom needs to do--not much delegating of this one.)

And lining up all the small details ahead of time for being out of the country for a solid stretch--paying bills ahead, making sure that the cupboards are stocked, clothing needs of all the kiddoes met so hopefully there is not frustration for the sitters etc.

Deep breath. Deep breath.

In the midst of all this, I want to keep my eyes on The One Who Has Called Us to Katya. And to focus on praying for her heart and our hearts to be ready to be connected. You can help us pray about that too. It's pretty important!

2011-04-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

1The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.
2It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the excellency of our God.
3Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.
4Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you.
5Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.
6Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.
7And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes.
8And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.
9No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:
10And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.

<< Isaiah 35 >>

Someone asked me if we had any verses that we especially identified with Katya. I very quickly started to have Isaiah 35, verse 1 pop into my mind. I went and looked it up and thought that the rest would be worth sharing too. There are verses in there that are meaningful as I think about the aodption process we are personally passing through. But here's the part that makes me think about Katya--" . . the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blooms abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God." I know these verses are not referring specifically to an individual, but to me they feel applicable. I believe that Katya will unfold as a person, just as a rose does, when she gets the proper medical attention and the love and support of a family. Do I think that she's going to be able to become typical? I don't know--and does that really matter?? Maybe . . . a little bit . . . but in the long-term scheme of life . . .not, not really. What IS important is that she be given a chance to be as much as she can be with God's help . . . and that is what we are going to strive for!

Some Goodies FOR SALE

2011-04-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

Here's some of the goodies left from the auction for sale! (Yes, we have more--once these sell!) ALL ITEMS WERE DONATED to us, and we make no claims about them other than what we can observe with our eyes. Selling these items also does not imply our endorsement of any item . . . Buy and use with your own good judgement!

All proceeds after shipping will go to Katya's fund to help bring her home!

Size 4 Carhartt girl's outfit. Top out of 95% cotton and 5% spandex. Jeans have cute color cordinating embroidery on the pockets that does not show in this photo along with a heart-shaped hook for the top of the pants, and elastic button tab waist. Brand new, with tags. Sale price on just the shirt is $13.99 and $18.99 sale price on the pants. Anyone think that asking $24.00 bucks is unfair?! If so, tell me why, and make an offer. (Remember that the $24.00 includes shipping!)

Leopard print bag made by a local seamstress of excellence in her non-smoking home. She donated many bags to the sale, and they went like hot-cakes! There are just a few left. I'm not totally sure of the fabric, but it feels like a cotton or cotton blend, with ribbon straps. Completely lined in hot pink like the outside pocket.

Asking $12.00

Denim Bag also by the seamstress. $12.00

Super cute hair band that came in the Saturday mail after the fundraiser was done.

It looks like the felt shifted leaving a bit of glue showing, so I'm suggesting that you make an offer on this. Head band is still cute, and I imagine most little girl's would happily wear this for every day. Made to resemble a Matroishka doll, it's one of the cutest headband ideas I have ever seen! Please remember to include shipping with your offer! And no reasonable offer will be refused.

Cute hearts headband donated by the same person as the headband above. This one is in great condition, and would delight any little girl looking for some new spring accessories! Asking $8.00

Gorgeous hair clip! $5.00

We Interrupt This Broadcast . . .

2011-04-12T07:23:00.000-07:00

. . . to announce that we have a date!!!! A VERY IMPORTANT DATE !!!

YES! We have a date to meet with the officials responsible for adoptions in Katya's birth country! We will be there at 9:00 a.m. God willing on May 17th!!

That means we will be leaving the country on May 15th.

God did three wonderful things in 24 hours.

#1. He worked out baby sitting for us for the first trip. ;-) That was something we were praying very hard about the last few weeks.

#2. Last night we received a very sizeable donation--check out the therm on the right of the blog! It took a $3,000 leap!! There's a really neat story behind that too . . . about a young couple with many young children who began to pray and ask God to help us with our adoption process, and to ask Him how they could help. Struggling themselves with finances often, they didn't see any way humanely speaking, but they knew God and His power. And God, knowing their heart's desires, heard and graciously answered them. They were unexpectedly blessed financially, and passed the blessing on to us last night! People . . . we serve an AWESOME God who answers when His people begin to seek His face for orphans! (I know--you have never heard that from me before, right? WRONG! :-) )

#3. So, after I got the donation last night, I called a friend and we laughed together at God's provisions with the kind of laughter that comes deep from within when you realize that God has done something that you knew He was capable of . . . and it's just so neat to see HOW He actually did it, right?! Then I said, "We must be soon ready to go, because God never goes around dumping money in our laps until right about when we need it!"
So honestly, I really was NOT surprised this a.m. when the phone rang and it showed the name of someone who is assisting with our adoption process. I fully expected to be given our appointment date--and I was! ;-)
May 17th at 9:00 p.m. So now the real flurry begins . . . and yes, I'm all teary eyed at the thought of seeing Katya again . . . can't wait . . . can't wait . . .

Realistically, we still need in the neighborhood of around $6 or $7 thousand dollars yet but we still have some fundraiser items to sell on the blog (yes, yes . . . I haven't forgotten those of you who are just about drooling at the chance to see what is left! Pictures and prices will be coming!) AND I have no doubt in my mind that God is going to make sure that money is there when we need it.

Was all that news worth interrupting the fundraiser posts for ?? It was?? I thought so. (Smiles smugly and walks off . . . )

The Fundraiser Post Part 1

2011-04-11T09:05:00.000-07:00

As announced previously, we had a fundraiser for Katya on Saturday. Many good people donated, and many good people turned up to help prepare!

There was a lot of bustle setting up, but in Maria and Ann's capable hands, it was all organized and decent.
Just a small peek at the many, many lovely items for auction. We had over 70 items--I lost track finally of how many there were because more kept coming in!

Miss Amy designed lovely cards for the tables, and added to the fun for children with colorful candies in spring colors.

Under Kim's capable hands, and with the great help from her friends, the food was delicious! Spaghetti, green beans, salad, rolls, and home-made desserts galore!

A shot of some of the people milling around. . . . or eating.

And see the helium tank on the table there?? Well . . . that was one funny thing . . . for those of you who enjoy the humorous angle . . . When the teen boys were filling the balloons to take out for the signs . . . a handful got away and sailed to the 20 feet or so high ceiling!

Umm, they were SUPPOSED to be outside helping attact attention, boys! Not up on the ceiling! Fortunately, someone knew where to get a very tall ladder and they were all safely collected and delivered to the faithful sign holding teen boys! (I hope they know how VERY much we appreciate their efforts!)

Hand's Of Praise, a sign language choir from The Anchor Church, performed some of their songs at various times throughout the afternoon for the people who came out.

Since we know Katya realistically may need to learn sign language to communicate with us, we felt like this was an especially appropriate touch! I'm so thankful that they were willing to help in this way!

Also, Charity's violin teacher, and Charity played "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" together. (Thank you, Mr. S!)

And someone captured this photo of Charity! You can clearly see the joy that violin playing brings in this snap shot.

Kristina played a piano piece. Love the look of concentration on her face. ;-) I thought it was especially poignant to have her participating in the fundraiser for her sister-to-be, given that about 5 years ago people were praying and helping raise funds for her adoption! So thankful for God's provisions then, and trusting Him for NOW too.

Charity and Amy played "Be Thou My Vision" together. Sounded lovely! Hard to believe that just a few short years ago these lovely young ladies were little girls running around playing dolls together! Now, gracious and lovely young women, making a difference in the world--advocating for a child who needs a family!

Amy on her guitar--and Kristina on the drums (although Kristina doesn't show in this photo).

And a big shout-out to the Johnston sisters who each played a piano piece! We really appreciated their help too!

To be continued . . . .

Fundraiser Report . . . .

2011-04-09T17:49:00.001-07:00

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.whiznews.com%2Fcontent%2Fnews%2Flocal%2F2011%2F04%2F09%2Fbringing-katya-home&h=bac0f

Katya In the News

2011-04-05T21:05:00.000-07:00

There's a story behind this, about how GOD orchestrated it that a reporter from WHIZ would call US seeking an interview (!!!) but I'm way too weary to tell it tonight . . . so for now, enjoy the link--and I will try to tell more another day.

http://www.whiznews.com/content/news/local/2011/04/05/bringing-katya-home

In the interview, I'm showing them the photo book I made (FREE) about our trip in 2009 to Katya's orphanage. I thought that they did a pretty good job! I'm grateful to WHIZ for caring about Katya.

Submitted!

2011-04-01T09:47:00.000-07:00

The long awaited day arrived . . . we are submitted! That means that the Documents--our paper baby--that was so carefully sent over to Katya's birth country-- was translated, and now officially turned in to the officials responsible for adoptions! That is a huge, huge, important step in this journey to our sweet daughter of the heart!

And no, that's no April Fool's joke! The only thing is?? It happened yesterday--we just didn't know FOR SURE until today. We knew last week already that it was supposed to happen yesterday, but we weren't saying anything till we received official confirmation.

Thank God for this important step, and praying for two major things:
#1. A baby sitter for the children and #2. Money, Money, Money.

"All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided, Great is They Faithfulness, Lord unto me!"

Last Day for Usborne Books Fundraiser

2011-03-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

Here is a message from Ann: Don't forget! My Bring Katya Home Usborne Fundraiser ends tomorrow! http://www.myubam.com/HOS195109 or Go to www.BooksKidsRead.com and click on Bring Katya Home. My entire commission will go to Katya's fund and the hostess books will be donated to her silent auction fundraiser.

Please check it out if you need books for your children or for gifts for others.

Some Questions Answered

2011-03-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received a message from someone, asking a lot of questions. I don't have a ton of time to answer them in detail as I'm busy with caring for my family and bringing Katya home, but I felt they were important and deserved some answers. So, I'm going to give some answers, and I'm also going to have Charity write some answers (without reading mine). I will share mine today, and maybe in a few days, I will have the opportunity to share some of Charity's answers too. I hope that it will clarify the situation for any of my readers who are experiencing similar questions or concerns.
**************************************************
C. from down south in the USA writes:

I have a question about your adoption belief system. Maybe that's not the right way to put it. I'm wondering why this one little girl from half way across the world is more important to you that the millions of needy children that pour through your local agency every year. Don't get me wrong- I am pro adoption. But for that very reason I feel like $20,000 spent on one child could be better used to minister to ten US children who do not having loving families. And I'm not measuring the worth of a soul either. All little children deserve a loving family.
Which brings me to my next point. You are not really finically able to get this girl. Is it wise to put all you've got on the line, when you don't have what it takes to bring her home? You are asking for other families to put their all on the line too, for the sake of you providing a home for this child. And like I said, that same amount of money could reach many children. At least in the state of ______, adoption is free. Even your court costs are covered. On one of the blogs (I think Reese's Rainbow) there was a lady practically ridiculing those who back out of adoptions like what you are doing. I was really turned off by that. I think lack of money and other resources is a perfectly good reason not to adopt. Adoption is no easier than any other parenting and especially adoption overseas and special needs. It is no picnic.
I think if you are a prepared family with a call from God to adopt, with your own money in hand, then by all means you should answer that call. But there are few families like that.
The other thing is, while I was touched by the stories of these precious, innocent, abused children, needing help, attention and love, I had to think of two things.
1) What are the governments of these countries doing about the millions of orphans? Why are they not doing something to provide homes or education? If they were concerned about the welfare of the children and they wanted them to find good homes, it would not cost $20,000 to get a child. It sounds like someone is making dirty money. If nothing else, someone should be teaching, educating, and handing out condoms to these people who are creating a world full of orphans. You have to get ahead of the game and stop the mess, because not you, or anyone else is going to be able to give homes to 300,000 children. Not at $20,000 each!
The other thing is, while I understand how fundraisers work, I think it is selfish of people to have to GET something for donating to your cause. If they really cared about helping you bring Kayta home, they would give without Tupperware, books, clothing, cake, etc. I say, shame on them for not just giving you the money.
I hope I didn't come across too strong. These thoughts have been on my heart for a long time. And if you knew me better you would know, I never mince words. I hope you will share your story with me. I am in a community where adoption is looked down on, and F. and I feel called to adopt. Not sure when. We are waiting on God's timing. I have worked with precious foster children.
God bless.
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#1. I'm wondering why this one little girl from half way across the world is more important to you that the millions of needy children that pour through your local agency every year.

When Paul and I first set out to adopt, over 6 years ago, we actually had in mind to foster to adopt through the USA system. We took all the classes, and began to wait and wait for our homestudy appointment. We had NO intention of adopting internationally, and had in fact refused to even consider the idea, due to the costs. It wasn't even on our radar, so to speak. Until the day God literally dropped Kristina's urgent need for a family into our laps and said, "There's your daughter." God spoke very clearly to both of us. We wrestled with the projected cost of her adoption-- $45,000. She lived in the far, far East of Russia, and airfare alone for her adoption ended up costing close to $10,000 for the two trips we were required to make. After seeking a lot of counsel and spending serious time in prayer, we committed to her, knowing it would take a series of miracles from God to pull off her adoption. Fortunately, we were in a church that was big on believing in God for miracles, and they prayed hard with us through the whole process (almost a year long). Ironically, about a week or so after we committed to her, we got the phone call that the local Social Services was ready to start our homestudy. Interesting timing. God's timing, I believe to this day.

With Katya, again, we did *not* set out to seek an international adoption. We were open to whether or not God wanted us to adopt. We had a handful of opportunities to adopt a child here in the USA presented to us by people advocating for children over the last few years. Every single time, God firmly closed the door and said, "No." We were happy with our family of 4 children, and did not necessarily feel the need to adopt again, but we wanted to be open to it if that was what God had for our family. God eventually laid Katya on our hearts, and we began to pray and advocate for her. In Sept. of 2009 I went on a medical missions trip to her orphanage and spent a week working there. We continued to advocate for a family for Katya for almost another year, but no family was able to complete her adoption. We try hard as a family to be open to God's leading and voice in our lives, and we know that He has spoken to us that we are to pursue adopting her. It's that simple.

Just as God called Abraham to leave what he knew and what was familiar to him, God has called us to do this. Why? He knows.We don't have to know for sure. Adoption isn't just about "getting another child". If that is all it was about, it would be simplest and easiest to just go get the handiest child. As you say, all children are deserving of a family! But I believe God has specific children for specific families--just as He had a specific husband for you, and a specific husband for me. Just any man wasn't necessarily what we were looking for, right? We wanted to be led to THE ONE that God had created uniquely for us, and us for our husband, no matter where he was located. ;-) That is the philosphy my husband and I have about adoption--we believe that God will show us which children He wants our family specifically to have. No matter where on God's planet they are located, when God calls, we must follow the call.

#2. A. Which brings me to my next point. You are not really finically able to get this girl. Is it wise to put all you've got on the line, when you don't have what it takes to bring her home? You are asking for other families to put their all on the line too, for the sake of you providing a home for this child. And like I said, that same amount of money could reach many children. At least in the state of ______, adoption is free. Even your court costs are covered. On one of the blogs (I think Reese's Rainbow) there was a lady practically ridiculing those who back out of adoptions like what you are doing. I was really turned off by that. I think lack of money and other resources is a perfectly good reason not to adopt

Before a family is allowed to adopt internationally, there is a very rigorous examination made of their finances, and their financial status, in addition to many other aspects of our lives. All aspects are examined closely--income, debt load, personal net worth of all property and assets etc. Not only does the home study agency make a close investigation of all of this, the USA Gov't does as well. The USA gov't especially wants to make sure that a family bringing a child into the USA has the financial resources to care for the child in EVERY aspect--housing, food, education, medical care etc. Home study agencies AND the USA gov't are both wise enough to realize that many families can take care of a child after they are home quite well--they just don't have $25,000 plus sitting loose in the bank. Because of that, fund-raising to help with SOME of the adoption costs is recognized by them as a legitimate thing. Both the home study agency AND the USA Gov't get paid to examine us--that is where some of the adoption costs come in. Several thousand of them, to be exact.

As to us asking other families to put their "all on the line too"--in my world, asking some one to put their "all" on the line means that you are asking them to give every thing they have. I am unaware that we have asked ANYONE to give every thing they have--to sacrifice till they are at risk of losing their home or starving themselves or their children. If so, that was never our intention. Even we--while living sacrificially, are NOT starving, our house is firmly in place over our heads, and we are all properly clothed. Doesn't God ask us to be willing to sacrifice for others?? Doesn't He have plenty to say about the snares of riches and His heart for how we should care for orphans and widows?! Wouldn't Jesus were He on earth today have plenty to say about the wealth and luxury that is present in so many of our homes and lives when others around the world have so little? And no where do I read in the Bible that we are to limit ourselves to caring just for those in our own country.

I would never presume to tell any one that they MUST adopt internationally in order to obey God's call for their life. But that is what He has called *us* to do--and we MUST obey Him. We must obey Him even when it's not easy or pleasant, and even when our human eyes do not see exactly how He is going to provide for this adoption. I have full faith though that HE IS FAITHFUL and that since He provided for Kristina's adoption He is perfectly capable of providing ALL that we need for Katya's in one way or another. God sometimes WANTS us to walk by faith, and not by sight, and to get out of the way with our human reasoning and our desire to be "safe" and have all our ducks in a row so to speak, so that His power and glory can be manifested! With Kristina's adoption, we saw that again and again and again . . . . and with Katya's, God has ALWAYS made sure we had the money we needed for the next step ON TIME. Lack of funds has not delayed her adoption process. Not once. (Thank you, God!)

B. At least in the state of ______, adoption is free. Even your court costs are covered.

Nothing in life is truly free. Somewhere, there was a price, and someone paid it. In the case of adoptions in your state, SOMEONE is paying for those. Probably tax-payers in the USA. And that's fine. I have no real problem with that. BUT realistically, we need to think about this: When you adopt in your state, *YOU* are asking others to pay for *YOUR* adoption--without them even KNOWING or GIVING PERMISSION to have their funds spent to pay for your adoption. Because there ARE costs associated with that adoption that ARE paid to the Social Workers, the Judges, the Lawyers etc. And those costs are paid by SOMEONE. While I can not cite a reference, I have been told that the total costs for an adoption through foster care easily run up to $10,000 or more. Paid for by SOMEONE, SOMEHOW.

When we ask others to help with our adoption, IT IS A CHOICE THEY CAN MAKE. They can choose to help, or they can choose not to help. We appreciate ALL our friends, whether they choose to help or not. Whether they help or not is totally between them and God. We can present the opportunity for them to help bless Katya's life, because this isn't about us--it's about the life and soul of a child. And God will make sure that she comes home, with or without help from others. He knows how to do what seems impossible. So my question here is: Is God calling you to help with someon's adoption--not necessarily even Katya's? If so, listen.

#3.Adoption is no easier than any other parenting and especially adoption overseas and special needs. It is no picnic

You are so right about that, C. Adoption is one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life. Parenting our hurting daughter for the first 6 months she was home had me on my face before God many times. The first 4 years with her were VERY hard even though not so hard as the first 6 months. After she made the choice to yield her heart and life to God's control, the change in her has been amazing. But she's not all healed. She still carries emotional scars as well as special needs that will impact her whole entire life--needs that there is NO CURE for. Needs that will impact her life in many, many ways, including her choice of life work. But hasn't God called us to be wiling to suffer for His sake? To suffer for the sake of the Gospel?

With Katya, we don't know what challenges all lie ahead of us. We have no rose-tinted glasses. Remember, I spent a week in her orphanage. I know how hurting and broken Katya is to a certain extent. Realistically?? I think we are embarking on the hardest part of our lives--you pray for us!

Having said all that, I will also tell you that adoption has been one of the biggest blessings in our family's life in SOOOO many ways!!! Its' broadened our world, given us new friends, helped our family grow more into the kind of people God wants us to be, given us the love and joy of another daughter in our home, and so many other things. God knew our daughter had a heart that would be hungry for Him, and He orchestrated her life so that she would learn to know Him as her Savior and Lord. To me, there is nothing more amazing than that! Praise God!

And, when my precious Kristina, now 11, tells me, "When you rocked me and sang to me in the orphanage, that was when I knew I wanted you to be my Mama. No one else had ever done that, that I could remember!" I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God led us to Khabarovsk, Russia to bring her home. Her heart was hungry for a family, even though 5 years of orphanage life had taught her that she could not depend on any one to truly be trust-worthy.

#4. A. 1) What are the governments of these countries doing about the millions of orphans? Why are they not doing something to provide homes or education? If they were concerned about the welfare of the children and they wanted them to find good homes, it would not cost $20,000 to get a child. It sounds like someone is making dirty money. If nothing else, someone should be teaching, educating, and handing out condoms to these people who are creating a world full of orphans. You have to get ahead of the game and stop the mess, because not you, or anyone else is going to be able to give homes to 300,000 children. Not at $20,000 each!
Many of the countries are still recovering from years of back-breaking poverty and Communism. They are doing the best they can with what they have in terms of education, resources and the values they have been taught (or not taught). Many are VERY concerned about the children, and that only what is best for them be what happens. In fact, that very awareness has INCREASED the cost of an adoption. Here's one example--in both Russia AND Katya's country, families used to be able to basically go over, meet their child, fill out the paperwork, and get home in a week or so. As problems arose for many of these families, and some of the children were abused and/or killed by their new families, or rejected for one reason or another (some truly as trivial as after they got the child they discovered they had a prominent birth mark under their clothing!), countries said, "Wait a minute! This system is NOT working! We need to have more time to observe families interacting with the children. The parents need more time to interact with the children before they decide they really want to adopt them. The children need to have more time learning to know the parents before they are forced away from all that they are familiar with and put with these strange smelling and speaking people!" So . . . longer times in country. And yes, that costs. People have to have some where to stay while they are spending time interacting each day with their child at the orphanage. People need to eat. People need transportation. In the case of our adoption of Kristina, we were required to go meet her, spend time with her, then return home, complete more paperwork, and then retun to finalize the adoption. That second trip was almost 3 weeks in country. You can not travel for free.

As to dirty money?? Umm, the people who help with the adoption have families and lives too. Do you think they should spend each day working to help famiiles adopt for free? And if so, who should pay for their food, clothing and housing? Do some of them make a VERY good living at what they are doing?? Yes, probably so. And since many or most of them are not Christians, they do not know what God says about living simply. They see it as a chance to provide a good living for themselves and their family--and is that really so much different than what most people want to do?!

B. If nothing else, someone should be teaching, educating, and handing out condoms to these people who are creating a world full of orphans. You have to get ahead of the game and stop the mess, because not you, or anyone else is going to be able to give homes to 300,000 children. Not at $20,000 each!
Birth control is not the real solution to the orphan problem in either of the countries I have contact with through adoption. Because most of the orphans are not in the orphanages due to huge family sizes being more than what any parent could care for. According to UNICEF, there is a 67% birth control rate in Katya's country. Most families have only one or two children. What then is driving the high percentage of orphans? MOST of it stems from this: Lack of education and support about special needs. As soon as a baby is born that shows signs of special needs, the pressure is on. "Put your baby into an institution. You can not care for this child! Who will help you?! There are no programs for a child like this. There is no life for them. They will ruin your life! You will end up homeless and on the street! Put them away--forget they were born to you and go on to have another healthy child who will care for you!" When THOSE are the voices you hear from everyone in your life--or nearly everyone--and when you KNOW there is no support system, and NO ONE YOU KNOW has EVER cared for a child with a handicap, so how would you go about even starting to care for them?! When even your very Doctor angrily tells you, "This child has no business being in your home! You have no way of caring for this child! Let the experts do it!" WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?!!

It's all very well for us to sit here in our snug little communities where a mulitide of resources are at our finger tips, and where on a normal day we are likely to see someone with a developmental or physical handicap about and out in town, and criticize the women who are broken and scared and hurting in countries far away and say, "I would never give up my baby!" No, here in America, you would not. But you don't know what you would do if years of conditioning had taught you that NO parent should raise a child with a handicap, and that they belong in orphanages. You don't know what you would do if you had NO RESOURCES. You don't know WHAT you would do if Doctor's LIED to you about how horrible your child's life was going to be if you took them home.

And what if you lived in a 7 story flat that you had to climb 7 flights of stairs for EVERY DAY with NO ELEVATOR in the building, and your child was born with a handicap and you were told, "This child will never walk!" Realistically, how are you going to carry that child 7 flights of stairs once he's 5 or 6 years old and weighs 50 lbs? And what about when your husband hisses at you, "If you don't send that child off, I will leave you! And then where will you be?! You know you don't make enough at your job to keep a roof over y our head!"?? What would you do? And what would you do if your parents, who you live with, scream at you, "Send that child away! Don't bring her home! If you do, a curse will fall on all of us! We will kick you out onto the street tonight if you show up with that child in your arms!" ?? What would you do? Put yourself in the shoes of these precious, hurting mamas, and pray for them.

THIS is REALITY for the women of these countries! Are things changing?? Is there hope?? Yes!!! Thank God, there are whispers of hope! There are small rays of light shinning into the countriese and change is starting to happen. As families adopt special needs children and countries start to see the change that a loving family can make in these kids lives, change starts to happen. Even though we are no longer required by law to send post-placement reports back to Russia for Kristina, we continue to send photos and reports on our own! We WANT them to see how she is thriving! We WANT them to know that the child who was deemed "severely retarded" and scheduled to be shipped to a mental institution by a panel of TEN EXPERTS (and yes, I have the paper with every one of their signatures) is doing well in 4th grade, excelling in piano lessons, and a wonderful addition to our family! We want the sceptics to KNOW that a good family, good nutrition, good love MAKE A DIFFERENCE and create positive changes than a typical orphanage can never duplicate.

Most agencies that I know about--certainly both the one we used for Kristina's adoption AND Reece's Rainbow--work to provide support and education to the birth countries of our children. Realistically, not even all the children in orphanages are available for adoption (that is a whole 'nother post in and of itself, and one I will not get into today). But Steven Curtis Chapman of Show Hope has said
that if each Christian would adopt ONE child--just one--there would be an end to the orphan problem in the whole entire world. That's pretty staggering to think about . . . and pretty sad too. Can every Christian adopt a child? No. But far more could than are doing so. And some of us are willing to adopt more than one, so if the body would arise and begin to act . . . .

What kind of miracles do you think we could see God do if the professed Body of Christ would rise up and begin to pray and seek God's face and heart for orphans?!! I think there is NO END TO THE MIRACLES WE WOULD SEE, and God would be delighted to move mountains and bring His children home!! WOW! Just thinking about that gets me excited! C'mon professed followers of God--Arise in greater numbers than you have been!

#5. The other thing is, while I understand how fundraisers work, I think it is selfish of people to have to GET something for donating to your cause. If they really cared about helping you bring Kayta home, they would give without Tupperware, books, clothing, cake, etc. I say, shame on them for not just giving you the money

While we appreciate out-right donations, there is no way under the sun I would expect people to just hand over money while I sit still. If I can work to help raise money for my daughter's adoption expenses, why is that less honorable than my husband going to work each day? The economy here in Ohio is rough for many people. And if I can help someone obtain something they NEED and still pay my adoption expenses, I'm happy to do so. No one is being asked to order something they don't need. But if you need a bowl, I'm happy to sell it to you. If your child needs a cobbler apron to keep their clothing clean, why shouldn't I sell it to you and help you AND me both in the process? Is it wrong for people to work to earn their bread to pay for their other expenses? God says we should be willing to work, so I think not. We have tried hard to provide items that would be a blessing to a wide variety of people. While I'm aware that not everyone wants every type of item we offer, that's fine. We don't expect people to all need or want the same thing! We have even been contacted again and again by people asking us to make custom items for them so that they don't need to go elsewhere to buy it. Many of the poeple who have purchased items from us have given out-right donations too. Either at the same time, or at earlier or later dates. Lots of people have given freely from their hearts expecting nothing in return.

And don't forget .. . . some people just enjoy fundraisers, and see the first three letters in the word as part of the whole package deal--FUNdraiser.

When we have helped with others adoptions, we have both given out-right gifts, and also purchased items that we needed. I have NEVER ONCE bought some thing just to buy it to make them be able to adopt. Never. If I don't want the item, I simply donate if I wish to help. I would assume that most, if not all, of our helpers are doing the same thing with us.

#6. I hope I didn't come across too strong. These thoughts have been on my heart for a long time. And if you knew me better you would know, I never mince words. I hope you will share your story with me. I am in a community where adoption is looked down on, and F. and I feel called to adopt. Not sure when. We are waiting on God's timing. I have worked with precious foster children.
God bless.

I am aware you don't mince words. And while I try to be kind and diplomatic, I'm sure you have seen I don't mince words either when the situation requires it. I appreciate the honest struggles and questions you are having here, and I pray that as you seek God's face and His heart for orphans with your husband that you will find answers. Its' not easy to feel called from God to adoption and to think you are not in a supportive community for it. I hope and pray that something will change there for you--perhaps God will use your burden and passion for orphans to reach out to others. Be the seed of change! I know that as a result of our adopting Kristina, other people have opened their eyes and hearts to God's burden for orphans, and have adopted. I thank God for using Kristina's story to bless other people.

And I thank you forgiving me an opportunity to share my heart with you, and the rest of my readers. God bless you and your husband.

What To Say?

2011-03-28T18:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight, I sit and stare at my computer screen. I feel little inspiration to write. The journey thus far has left me a bit drained . . . weary . . . worn . . . and wondering . . . curious . . . .cautious . . . . a little sadder and a little wiser . . . reaching out to God and asking again and again for His guidance . . . wondering how He will open doors . . . and what lies yet ahead of us? What additional painful experiences will we be going through before Katya is finally home safely with us? What amazing things will we see God do?

I don't know . . . . and it the NOT KNOWING that is so hard at times. I don't know about you, but I LIKE to know things. Especially things that affect me so deeply and personally as this journey to my daughter has been.

For around two years, I sat and stared many nights at dear Katya's face on my computer screen, and wept and prayed. I did not understand why God was so clearly calling me to her--and yet Paul didn't see it or get it at that point. I only knew I was to wait . . . to not run ahead of God . ..and to hold Katya with an open hand. I still don't entirely understand all of what that was about . . . but I have little glimpses now and then.

I trust in time more of it will be made plain to us . . . and maybe why the journey to Katya has been so hard. . . some of that has been revealed to us . . . and it's not pretty. I can not say more than that. But Paul and I both earnestly covet your prayers for our spiritual and emotional protection and well-being. We need contnued prayers for a hedge of protection from God to be placed around our family. Thank you.

Thinking Outside of the Box to Raise Funds

2011-03-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

Late this just-passed winter, my Dh and teen son had a two week long fencing job locally. They repaired and replaced a fence around a post office. Part of the terms of the job were that they were to clear all debris and damaged fence and supplies from the property. They hauled home the items as they came home each evening and dumped them in a large pile.

This past week my Dh did not have any paying jobs, but that did not mean he was idle. Oh no! He and Todd worked hard loading up the scrap fence and a few other things of scrap that accumulated here over the past year and hauled them in to the local recycling place.

Wanna guess how much their work gave us for Katya's fund?? Roughly $522.00! We were very, very happy to be able to add that to Katya's fund and I share this as a little example of how to think outside of the box when trying to fundraise for your child's adoption.

Our property is neater and cleaner again, and the money we need for Katya's ransom has taken a large jump. Very definitely a win-win situation if you ask me!

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In other happy news, we recieved our first donation today for the April 9th fundraiser, and got emails or messages about a few other donations. We are very grateful and excited about them all! We also plan to take all the left-over items that haven't sold on our blog like aprons and blankets and things like that to the auction so if you have been thinking about purchasing one, NOW is the time to buy them--otherwise, they are gone.
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Also, someone has kindly offered to do an Usborne books fundraiser for Katya! Here's the info they gave me to share with you. Please share the info with anyone and everyone who might have any interest! The clock is ticking and we still have a very short time span to finish raising the funds we need for Katya! I know with God's help and the kindness of others we WILL accomplish that goal and Katya WILL be coming home, God willing.

Here is the link http://www.myubam.com/HOS195109 or they can go to www.BooksKidsRead.com and click on "Bring Katya Home" in the upper right corner.

Usborne Books & More believes that children should have every opportunity available to them,...... especially a good education. We offer an incredible variety of fiction and non-fiction titles in all age ranges and subjects. The combination of Usborne and Kane/Miller books enables Usborne Books & More to offer you one of the most creative and original book lines in the United States.

All books will be shipped directly to you within 2 business days of your order. The consultant, Ann Mackowski will donate her commission (25% of sales) to help bring Katya home to her family. In addition, the free books a hostess earns by holding a party will be donated for the auction on April 9th.

If you need book recommendations or have any questions, please e-mail Ann@BooksKidsRead.com and she will be more than happy to help.

Mysterious Money

2011-03-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

For three weeks in a row now, we have found money in our mailbox at church. First week, a $100 bill in an envelope with our name on it. No note.

Second week, $100 in an envelope with our name on it. No note.

Third week--today--$65.00 in bills folded and stuffed in our mailbox.

We don't have a clue who is putting the money in there, but I know God knows. I know He sees. He sees someone (or some someoneS) whose heart is tender towards orphans. Someone who wants to quietly help, with no fanfare. I would love to know who is caring so I could thank them, but I don't need to know. GOD KNOWS. And I know He will see and reward them for laying up treasures in heaven. I know He will see and reward them for caring about a little girl who has been declared not fit for a normal life due to a head deformity. A little girl who has a heart that is hungry for love . . . for hugs . . . for kisses . . . A little girl who has been waiting for OVER SIX YEARS for a Mommy, a Daddy, and a family!!

Tomorrow, check the thermometer for an update! We have been working hard to haul in the scrap from a fencing job Paul did this winter, and some other misc. scrap from some other jobs, and the Lord has blessed us with good results for that. No, not enough to complete the adoption (I wish!) BUT with that money and what has been coming in recently, you are going to see a nice fat JUMP in the therm!!! ;-) I'm happy about that, and I know God is too!

And It is THERE!!!

2011-03-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

We received the happy word this afternoon that our precious Fed-Ex package not only made it safely to the city and country where it belonged, but that it was also delivered and signed for! THANK YOU JESUS!!!

Now begins the important work of translating and submitting it. We are praying for a smooth process for that--and a speedy one.

We are also praying for the funds, because there is not a lot of time left and the sense of urgency grows almost by the minute. It's hard to sleep . . . it's hard to stay focused for me right now because I want so badly to be over there. Everyone is coping with the situation in their own way. Chad went and brought his beloved musical crib toy that he has cherished all these years and told me that he wants me to sell it to raise the money to get Katya. TOTALLY SPONTANEOUSLY. It moved me to tears. I cry easily these days. All those "pregnancy" hormones must be running rampant, you know?!

Both Paul and I feel the enormous weight of trying to raise another $15,000 in approximately 4 to 5 weeks very heavily. Paul didn't have work yesterday or today so he and Todd worked hard loading and hauling off steel left from the fence job they did a few weeks ago. After the expense of the trailer and bob cat rental, we raised around $300 for Katya's account. Then there is at least another pick up truck laod that they can hand-load. They plan to do that tomorrow and haul it in for recycling as wsell, We expect that to net us around $175 -$200. So little by little . . . but realistically speaking, we need to be raising $3,000 a week! That's a staggering sum to our minds. But I know it's not to God. We are working hard, doing what we can do. And like Paul says, "I said from the start of this that God would need to help with the funds. I don't know how He'll do it, but He'll just have to if we are to bring Katya home." And He has been faithful. We have ALWAYS had the money so far for each step. So . . . I am choosing to trust. Not to panic. But we are working/thinking/planning/plotting/considering all possible options/seeking advice and counsel/asking for help to pull off a massive fundraiser/ and generally yelling and letting people know we need help. WHHEEEWWWW.

So . . . consider this your official announcement--WE NEED HELP!!! We don't ask for ourselves, but for the sake of Katya.

On April 9th, there is a local church that has graciously offered to allow us to use their church fellowship hall to throw a massive fundraiser. From NOON to 4:00 p.m. there will be GOOD FOOD, GREAT MUSIC, and GIFT BASKETS AND OTHER ITEMS being auctioned off!!! (Yes, all those G's were intentional!! ;- ))

So . . . how can you help??

#1. By praying.

#2. By showing up if you are any where close enough to drive in.

#3. By donating gift cards, gift certificates, hand-made items, services (if you are local to the area or have an online business) new elecontric items, and so on. Please don't think any item is too small! The donation of a single item can be combined with others to make a gift basket that will be a delight! New books, CD's etc. are all welcome! Use your imagination! The possiblities are almost endless.

#4. If you are willing to help with any aspect of the setting up, food prep or any thing like that, please let us know! We can put you in touch with the committee that is handling that. We have some lovely ladies from our town and from our church who are working together to create a great meal, and a fun time for everyone. I'm soooo greatful to Kimberly and her church for being willing spearhead this event to be the hands of Jesus to Katya!

Now, some more info--the meal will be by DONATION. We want EVERYONE to be able to feel like they can come and help even if they can only afford to throw in a dollar or two. We especially thought that with the earlier time, it might appeal to Seniors who would like a good home-cooked meal. So spread the word if you know of any who might like to eat out on a Saturday and help a good cause! The event will be one where you can eat and run if you need to, so don't be afraid to come!

WHERE?? THE ANCHOR CHURCH (Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps/place?oe=UTF-8&ie=UTF8&q=The+Anchor&fb=1&gl=us&hq=The+Anchor&hnear=Zanesville,+OH&cid=1505199067741804531&z=14

WHEN??? APRIL 9th, 20011 from 12:00 NOON TO 4:00 PM

WHO??? YOU AND ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIONS (as Rabbit would say!)

WHAT??? GREAT FOOD, GOOD MUSIC, GIFT BASKETS AND OTHER ITEMS FOR AUCTION

(There--I think I covered all the basics--my old English teacher would hopefully approve!)

And It's DONE!!!!

2011-03-16T19:19:00.000-07:00

The stack of documents

The check-list Charity created to help do one final check before we slid them prayerfully into the FedEx Envelope and rushed for the FedEx box. We made it. The 1.3 lb package of documents was picked up last night and at last check a few min. ago has left Paris, France .. . it should be to it's destination by tomorrow I presume, assuming no issues. Now the count-down begins. . . and the fund-raising intensifies. "Katya, honey, hang on! Mommy and Daddy are coming for you soon!"

Wonderful, WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL NEWS!

2011-03-14T21:57:00.000-07:00

On March 14, 2011, we finally received that wonderful piece of paper . . . that plain, black on white that looks so ordinary but holds so much meaning! YES!!! Our "Golden Ticket" finally arrived from the United States Gov't!!! We have official permission to pursue the adoption of a special needs child of either gender up to the age of 11 years!

This is a wonderful thing after waiting so long . . . and God willing . . . the stack of documents now sitting on our kitchen table will be in a Fed-Ex envelope wending their way to Katya's country by Tuesday evening!! Please pray for all the crazy running around we have to do to tomorrow to juggle the lasts steps in between the appointments and such that were scheduled already for the day! It's going to be a long day but it will all be worth it if we can get that dossier safely to Katya's country and then be able to officially let the powers that be know that we are serious about adding Miss Katya to our family! Can't wait to see my sweet heart again . . . . can't wait to love on her . . . can't wait to watch her completely capture her Daddy's heart and wrap it around her little finger. ;-)

We are being told to expect to travel in about 5 weeks or so . . . please pray for the remaining funds that we need to raise!! And as always, please feel free to share this blog with others and ask them to prayerfully consider joining in helping to bring Katya home.

Purple Flowers for Katya For Sale

2011-03-12T07:31:00.000-08:00

A friend has put up a print of one of her original paintings on Etsy to help raise money for Katya. Please check it out! It's beautiful, and reminds me of the color of Katya's dress in this picture.

When I said that to my friend, she replied that it had reminded her of that too--hence her choice.

Check out the painting here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/69765069/original-art-print-purple-flowrers-for

SALE!!! Help Get Katya Home!!!

2011-03-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

I've got some REALLY good news to share! Yesterday after a lot of phone calls and some stress we found out that our USCIS application AND Paul's A-file have been approved, pending review by one final supervisor. Our approval was expected to go into the mail yesterday yet--or if not yesterday, TODAY. That means by the end of this week we could be holding the paperwork in our hand that grants us approval to bring a child--hopefully Katya--into the USA!

And guess what that means?? That means that by early next week we should have our dossier on it's way to Katya's country!!! And guess what THAT means?? That means that in about 4-5 weeks after that we will probably be traveling to Katya's country to meet her! Paul for the first time--and for me, seeing her, holding her and loving her again! (OK, I'm bawling like a baby practically just at the thought . . . it's getting SOOO close--so real!!!)

So . . . in the midst of all this great and exciting news . . . the real damper is THIS: Realistically Speaking, We Are Still About $15,000 Short of What We Need. We still the $9,000 fee for the faciltator's in-country. We still need lodging for six weeks approximately, we still need money for food, for paying transportation fees (not included in the $9,000), Embassy Fees, Medical Exam for Katya etc. We DO already have what it should take for airfare unless airfare goes up beyond $1,000 a person. (We are budgeting that much per person and prayig it is enough!) So that is covered, thank God! But the rest needs covered.

So . . . SALE TIME . . . . we have reduced the prices on our items that have been listed for awhile . . .

ALL the items in the "Teacup Pincushions are on SALE. All the fleece items are ON SALE. We need those items to MOVE out!! Click on the "tabs" above to see the sale prices and what is available! First come, first served! If you have been pondering buying something, NOW is the time! Please spread the word!! Help us bring Katya home!!

So Dainty . . . A Skirt for Sale

2011-03-07T21:07:00.000-08:00

Another T-shirt skirt has taken shape under Charity's skillful hands.

Lovely light cream lace . . .

Sweet birdie ribbon.

Charity's careful stitching along the ribbon . . .

A bow on the front of the skirt at the waist . . .

Kristina was the model for these photos . . in our bathroom--nonetheless! Thought you might enjoy a "behind the scenes" photo!! (Yes, that IS a paint can there on the floor--I don't know how or why it snuck back into bathroom because I had cleaned all that stuff out a few weeks ago!)

T-shirt skirt for sale made from an up-cycled skirt. No holes, tears or stains as far as I can discern. Super soft cotton jersey T-shirt fabric with all new embellishments. Approximately 15.5 inches long, and around 25 inches in the waist (without stretching elastic).

Asking $14.00 and that includes shipping to the Lower 48! Shoot us an email at: phdfam@gmail.com if you are interested. First come, first served!

Chad says, "I Want Katya To Come Home!"

2011-03-07T14:23:00.000-08:00

Back in the summer of 2010, Chad saw me looking at Katya's picture one day and told me, "That girl needs to come live with us." When I agreed that she did need a Mommy and Daddy and a family, he told me he wanted to pray that she could come live with us. Since I knew that his Daddy and I were privately praying about that very thing, I told him he could go ahead and pray about it, of course!

So, for a couple of nights--and even at times at mealtimes, this is what Chad prayed: "Dear God, We found Katya's picture on the internet. Please let her come live at our house. Amen."

When Paul realized that Chad was praying like that, he wasn't too happy, because at that point, he'd only very reluctantly agreed to help pray about what God's plan for our family might be in regards to Katya. He felt that he was "too old, too tired, and too poor" to do another adoption, and he didn't even really WANT to be praying about it, but had agreed to do so after I asked him if he would. So Chad's sincere little boy prayers were a bit unsettling to Paul.

And then, after a few days of Chad's fervent petitions, he ON HIS OWN changed his prayers. With great conviction and assurance, Chad began praying, "Dear God, thank You that Katya is coming to live at our house. Amen." And he was SURE. Absalutely positively beyond a shadow of a doubt SURE. He was SOO sure that for awhile I was truly worried about him because he would tell us with great urgency that we needed to go get Katya NOW because she was waiting for us, and she was sad and worried we weren't coming!! This really rattled Paul, and I have to admit, it shook me up abit as well. Paul was still "kicking against the pricks" (See here for more interesting insight into the phrase) at the time, and it wasn't what he wanted to hear, that was for sure!

Eventually (obviously) Paul began to feel peace about adopting Katya and conviction that it was the path we were to take. We joyfully announced the news to Chad and the rest of our children. Chad was matter of factly happy--he'd known all along it was going to happen!

So many times on this journey, when it has begun to feel impossible to me, and when the thought of raising another penny, let alone the approximately $15,000 we still need to come up with makes me want to sink down and just yell, "I'm done! I QUIT!" Chad's faith keeps me moving. If he has the faith and assurance that he has, it could only have come from God speaking it into his little heart. How can I let him down?! I can't. We can't. No way. We can't give up on Katya--she needs us--and Chad is a wise and sensitive enough child to realize that. The other day he prayed all on his own, "Dear God--Tell those other famiiles to find ANOTHER child and keep an eye on Katya for us! Amen!"

Chad is going to be the best brother to her, I'm sure. A protector, and champion. He will defend her and advocate for her! Why am I so sure of that?? Because--he has been ever since he "found her picture on the internet". He has worried about what we would need for her to live in our family--"a bed, a dresser, toys--and oh yes! A booster seat!" He has insisted that we HURRY UP and get her home again and again. He has begged us even to go to the airport because he is sure she's waiting for us there . . . And, Chad defends and protects his sister, Kristina. So I know he will do the same thing for Katya.

Chad wants Katya to come home! He wants her to come home SOO badly that he wanted to HELP DO SOMETHING to raise funds for her. So . . . he allowed his precious doggy, "Honey", to model the many uses of the ""Doggie Paws Bucket Bag" we have for sale. Check out the photos.

Bucket Bag and Coordinating Apron are still available for sale together or separately. Check the "Aprons" tab at the top of the blog for purchasing info! Help Chad bring Katya home!

A Customer's Photo

2011-03-02T06:39:00.000-08:00

Remember the T-shirt skirt we made?

Today we were happy to see a photo of the customer wearing it! M. looks really great in it, I think! And what a perfect vest to go with the skirt! Thanks for sharing it with us, K--and allowing us to share it!

Photo by KW--used with permission.

Let Your Heart Be Moved--A NEW GIVEAWAY!!

2011-03-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Clear back when we were working hard to raise the funds to get a small team over to Katya's orphanage in EE in 2009, a blogger stumbled on to a link or post about our project, Being both an adoptee and an adoptive father himself, he--Hevel--was interested, and began following my blog. Over time, our family and his have gradually learned to know each other a little better via the wonders of modern communication. Now Hevel has a family of children. And they have been having a heart for Katya and her need for a family.

So what do you think they did? They decided to do something revolutionary . . . something amazing in this day and age. Something awesomely kind and wonderful . . .something that WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN KATYA's LIFE.

This family has a tradition that the children enjoy. They like to go once in awhile to a shop on Friday and enjoy either some coffee or a nice hot cup of chocolate. But, thought these children, if we would be willing to give that up . . . and do something to help Katya . . .

And so the idea was born!! You can read all about it and how YOU can participate by going HERE. Because with generous, caring children like that over on the other side of the world . . . children who KNOW what it's like to need a family . . . surely . . . surely . . . they won't be let down for lack of participation in their grand idea, will they?? No, I have faith they WILL NOT. You, my faithful readers will NOT let them down--of that, I am sure!!

The Latest CreationS For Sale

2011-03-01T17:54:00.000-08:00

This apron was a remant bin find. As I stared at the two pieces of fabric a few days ago, it just looked to me like it would make sense to put them together and make a fun and funky apron for a little guy! Charity agreed, so the Doggie Paw apron was conceived. Once home, we washed and dried the fabric, and then set to work.

Here is the finished result, gently flapping in the breeze on our clothes line.

And best of all?? It's FOR SALE--all proceeds to help with Katya's adoption expenses. We are currently working now on raising the $9,000 facilitation fee that goes to the helpers in-country.

Made with Charity's usual careful attention to all the details--like no raw edges on seams!

Made with all new materials in our non-smoking home with love and care!

Made for a boy approximately ages 3 to 6. Pops over the head and ties at the sides with the perky polka dot ties that match the front pockets.

A close up shot of the fun little "patch" pocket that is just right for holding a marble or a piece of candy!

Asking $16.00 and that includes shipping and handling to the Lower 48 states. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED! (And this is truly one of a kind apron--we do not have enough left to make another apron like this . . . ) PayPal through the button above (NOT the Reece's Rainbow button--the one above that clearly marked PayPal) if you wish to purchase this sweet little boy's apron. Remember, it goes to help bring Katya home!

And now . . . AN UPDATE . . . Charity tackled a new project tonight with the scraps from this "Doggie Paw" apron, and she has turned out the cutest little "Doggie Paw Bucket Bag". Check it out!

Close up of the side tag

Fully lined . . . and carefully stitched!

And . . . if your child wishes to, they can even reverse the bag!

$10.50 for the bag if purchased alone. And that includes shipping to the Lower 48. If you wish to purchase it WITH the apron, I will combine shipping, so the total price for APRON AND BAG would be $24.00 instead of $26.50 if purchased separately.

Charity puts a lot of time, effort and love into the items she is making. She is sacrifcing a lot to be able to help bring her sister home. I'm so very, very proud of her and I know God is too.

A GIVEAWAY--Quilted Wall Hanging

2011-02-27T18:56:00.000-08:00

It's time for some more excitement around here, right?? I think so--and if I do, I imagine some more of you might!

So for excitement we have a GIVEAWAY!!!

See this BEAUTIFUL wall-hanging or table topper? It could be YOURS . . .

Monica has ALL the info HERE AT HER BLOG Click on over to find out HOW to get entered in this give-away!

And best of all?? It's a great way to help bring Katya home!!

A Few Fundraiser Updates--and a (mildly) Funny Story

2011-02-23T21:19:00.000-08:00

Good News About the Tupperware Fundraiser for Katya!! Due to the fact that we couldn't get the link to work correctly at first, Elsie, the consultant, was able to get our time extended by two days. So instead of the fundraiser ending tonight, it's been extended through the 25th! This is a good fundraiser, with 40% going directly to help Katya come home! So would you please, please, please share this link for Katya's sake via any method you choose, and ask your friends to consider shopping through it?? You MUST shop through this link for us to get the credit--not through Tupperware's site otherwise. http://order.tupperware.com/pls/htprod_www/!twx$eparty_ctl.p_guest_welcome?pv_eparty=a93b2087b6dc7b62dcfdf8ff96ae2510

There are so many things you could enjoy having in your home . . . I purchased this type of toy for Todd when he was about 2--so 16 years ago. It's still going strong, in spite of all the use it's had.

And then there are storage containers . . .

and so many other things. I don't have tons of Tupperware, but I would say that my favorites are from the Modular Mates that I use to store things like sugar in--since we shop at our local bulk food store alot, having a sturdy container to dump the large bags of bulk items in is really important. Otherwise, . . . holes seem to appear in the plastic and my idea of a fun day is NOT a pile of sugar or flour going all over when I pull a bag from my cupboard. I've had my Modular Mates for years and years and never needed to do a thing wtih them except wipe them clean every now and then!

Anyway . . . just so you kmow . . . we do appreciate you shopping through the link above if you have any needs for Tupperware in your life! And if not . . . maybe someone you love would apperciate a piece for a gift. Prayerfully think about it. But don't think too long--the fundraiser ends the evening of the 25th!

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Skirt--Charity finally was able to take some better pictures of the little girl's T-shirt skirt we have for sale! And we lowered the price--only $12.00 and that includes shipping! Check it out! Isn't it sweet?! I love Charity's work. . . . she puts her heart into her sewing projects.

UPDATE--PENDING SALE FOR THIS SKIRT!

Again, this is a T-shirt skirt for little girl's, made of ALL NEW materials in our non-smoking home. Approximately 12 and 1/4 inches long, and 18 and 1/4 inches in the waist (un-stretched measurement--elastic in casing waist.) Asking $12.00 and that includes shipping to the lower 48 states. I will ship to Alaska or Hawaii as well but shipping prices will need to be additional.. You can PayPal us at phdfam@gmail.com

First come, first served!

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And now . . . for the mildly funny story . . . when we had our medical forms reviewed by the document reviewer, they noticed something we'd missed--on each form, two lines did not have the date written in on by the doctor. This is a problem--never mind that the page has the date in about 20 other places (well, I exaggerate a bit, I'm sure . . . but it's in a LOT of places, trust me!) So today we tooled to our Doc (who is about an hour away) and got her to add that info. First, she only did the top sheet--good thing I looked before we left the office! So we had to get her chased down and ask that both sheets get attention (yes, she's a busy Doc--a real sweetheart, and ever so caring, but BUSY!)

After we were done with that, we had to drive to the county seat, and after a bit of looking we found the building we were supposed to be going to to get authentications for the forms. Well, when we went through security, we asked the Deputy guarding the desk where to go to get the notary signature authenticated, and he directed us down the hall and to the first door on our right. We went--and found the door, and the sign beside it clearly stated, "Law Library". Umm, that seemed a bit strange . . but whatever . . .it's where he said to go so we opened the door and went in. There was no one there, but a sign taped to the desk saying that they would be back at 2:15 p..m. That was over an hour away . . . and we debated about waiting plus . . .w as this REALLY the right place?? I looked on the counter and there were forms there that were for notaries and such so I thought maybe then . . . although it all still seemed very strange and "off" to us . . .we settled to wait . . . Stupid us! We should have gone back out and challenged the deputy when we had our doubts!!! We waited till almost 2:20 p.m. and then this lady came hurrying in. When we tried to explain what we wanted she was a bit puzzled at first . . . wanted to look at our papers, and then explained that they don't use the term "authentication" in that county--it's a different term altogether (and right now it's escaping me though she did tell me what it was!) and no, SHE didn't take care of those--they were upstairs in another office! And no, this is NOT the first time that the deputies have done that to people--she keeps telling them that even though she handles one aspect of the notary business, she does NOT do this! So . . . we skeddadled out of there and up to the upstairs because I was supposed to be home not a minute later than 3:15 to take Charity to her group violin lesson . . . and by now it's past 2:20 p.m. and we are a good 45 plus min. away from home! Once in the right office, we were able to get things dealt with quickly and efficiently, and they put the type of impressive stamps and gold seals on that a certain country just LOVES . . . I think we need to move over to that county so the rest of our docs could look so impressive! LOL!

We managed to hustle home--a phone call enroute appraising Charity of our estimated time of arrival had her and Chad waiting on the door step as we pulled in. Paul jumped out, I jumped into the driver's seat and Charity and Chad climed in and we took off--and just so got Charity to her class on time . . . so all was well that ended well . . . but yes . . that is our latest adoption journey adventure!!

Don't forget--we are fundraising like crazy for Katya!!! Thanks for helping!!!

A Skirt for Easter . . .

2011-02-21T19:19:00.000-08:00

Charity made this skirt today with her usual meticulous attention to detail. Created from a NEW cotton-jersey T-shirt, in a soft, spring green, Charity put three rows of patterened rick-rack around the bottom, and added an elastic cased waist for ease and comfort of wearing.

(shadow on skirt from photographer, and not a permanent fixture of skirt!)

Soft, comfy and just right for spring, a little girl will love this dress for it's comfort and ease--no itchy side seams for one--and Mom will love it because it's machine wash and dry!

Sizing: Approximately 12 and 1/4 inches long and 18 and 1/4 inches in the waist. (Remember that the waist is nice, stretchy no-roll elastic so will get larger if it's stretched).

Asking: $14.00 and that includes shipping and handling to the lower 48 states. PayPal or personal check accepted. phdfam@gmail.com

As always, proceeds go to help bring Katya home! Thank you!

Good News From a Far Country

2011-02-21T08:23:00.000-08:00

"As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country." (Proverbs 25:25)

http://bible.cc/proverbs/25-25.htm

And we certainly heard GOOD NEWS this morning. . . . a message from Andrea Roberts, Founder and Director of Reece's Rainbow, assures us that she has received word that Katya is still safely homed in the Orphanage for young children where I visited her in 2009.

As I read the words, a great weakeness and electric "zinging" (I don't know how else to describe it) flooded my body, and my heart overflowed with joy!

Katya is still where she is loved and cared for. Where she is being fed enough food--good food too, from the looks and smells of it! Where she is allowed to go outside and pluck grass with the other kids to throw over the fence to the neighboring chickens. Where she is given "Oxygen" and other nutrients and cared for by a staff of medical professionals who take pride in caring for the kids in their charge as best they can.

Katya is still where the Director knows who I am. And where the staff saw that Katya let me hold her and love on her.

Do you realize how HUGE THIS IS, people?? Katya turned six back in December, and she is STILL THERE. She has not been transferred . . . when she was at risk of transfer clear back when she was FOUR already!!!! This is a God-thing. And we thank Him most fervently today.

We are STILL waiting our approval letter from USCIS . . . please pray it comes THIS WEEK. If it does, our Dossier should be able to be on it's way THIS WEEK or early NEXT WEEK at the latest. We know once the dossier arrives, then OFFICIALLY the orphanage will be notified that we are coming for Katya. That should be enough to keep her held there then until we arrive to claim her as our own child. I have faith that the Director will keep her there until we arrive once she knows officially we are coming. The Director is a good woman, and I know she and the other staff felt a connection to the Little Loaves and Fishes team that went in in '09. I believe that connection is strong enough to keep Katya there . . .

I'm off . . . there are MORE FUNDS to raise and QUICKLY . . . we are still about $175.00 short of what we need to get the Dossier authenticated, apostilled, and shipped to Katya's country, along with the $500 translation fee that must gone at the same time.

Don't forget--there are blankets, fleece scarves, stained glass, teacup pincushions and other items you can purchase to help us finish raising that final $175.00 we need!!