Happy New Year!!!!

Happy New Year!!! And what a year 2006 is going to be.

We pray blessings, peace, health, and safety upon you all - and we look forward to sharing a truly amazing year. GOD Bless!!!

And here it is......

The first official picture of Cupcake!!!

Isn't he or she too cute?? Yeah, ok...I know that right now he/she kinda does look like a cupcake ---- but that's my nephew or niece, and I think he/she is precious. :)

Glorious News!!!!

Last night we received the most awesome news!!! While over at my parents house celebrating Christmas Eve, my brother (Doug) and sister-in-law (Amy) called (they're in CA) to have Mom and Dad open the gift they had sent them. I was on the phone with them while the Momma ripped open the package, and what she opened was a picture Amy had made....but this was no ordinary picture, this was a sonogram picture of my future niece or nephew!!! YES!!! THEY'RE PREGNANT!!! (I just got goosebumps typing that!) HALLELUJAH!!! PRAISE GOD!!!

The funny thing was, my Mom really didn't comprehend the picture she was holding at first...she just kept staring at it, and I started screaming, "No way!!! You guys are pregnant?!?!?" All the while Mom's still standing there staring at the picture. I finally had to nudge her and say, "Mom!! They're pregnant...that's a picture of your grandbaby!!!" Well, then she started screaming and running around the house. It was quite the sight. I wish we would have had a video camera going (LOL)...but they really caught us all by surprise. And what an awesome surprise it was, and is!!!

They're calling the little one CUPCAKE right now (cause he/she is still in the oven - hee hee) and the projected due date is June 27th, 2006. What a glorious year 2006 is going to be!!!



CONGRATULATIONS DOUG AND AMY!!! WE ARE SO HAPPY AND EXCITED FOR YOU BOTH...AND WE CAN'T WAIT TO MEET CUPCAKE!!! :)

P.S.
If someone tries to tell you that GOD doesn't answer prayers, you send them to John and I, and we'll tell them about little Cupcake and our little Princess.....both of them true blessings from GOD above!!!!

Merry CHRISTmas!!!!

Just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas & Happy Holiday Season.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

"Thanksgiving comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow." Edward Sandford Martin

Have a Happy & Blessed Thanksgiving!!

Not listening to rumors....4 to go

Today marks yet another month down since our paperwork has been logged into the CCAA (China Center of Adoption Affairs), and if we don't listen to all the rumors floating around the various adoption pages that I follow - we only have 4 months to go until we receive our referral!!

There are various timelines floating around the adoption community - and I have to admit, it tends to be rather sad and frustrating at times. Some reports are that the wait is getting longer by a month or two, and others are reporting that the wait could be as long as 12-months from the log-in date (which would mean we wouldn't receive our referral until at least August!!!). I realize that the information on the internet is not meant to discourage or disappoint - because they're in the same boat we are...we are all anxious to welcome our children...but the wait is so hard.

I have been doing my best to not dwell on this information, because to be perfectly honest, nobody really knows any definates right now. I do try to focus on the fact that Emily will join our family at God's appointed time, and not before...or after.

So, keeping it on the positive side.....4 months to go!!! :)

I've really done it now

I did the dumbest thing today - and believe me....I'm paying for it in the worst way!!!

We are in the process of getting the house in shape for our new family member, and this past week we had all the vents and air ducts cleaned, and had an appointment today to get the carpets cleaned. Well, the other night John, his friend Caleb, and I moved a couple of the big things..but we left the couch where it was (big mistake). Today, being the ever independent person that I am, decided that I would move the couch out of the living room so the entire room could get cleaned. This is where the BIG MISTAKE came into play. For some odd reason, I decided to lift the couch up by one end (hey, I'd done it before) but as I bent and lifted, something in my lower back went "WOOOOO - HOLD ON!!" Something popped, I yelped in pain - and I haven't been able to move right since. Note: John and Caleb went duck hunting today, so I was home alone and really didn't know what to do (besides cry and whine).

At 9:30 am the carpet cleaning guy showed up - and I had to explain to him why the couch was sitting half in the kitchen and half in the living room. He was really nice about my pain (lol) and offered to move the couch the rest of the way out of the room.

As he cleaned the carpets, I puttered around the house like a 90-year-old victim of a hit and run (at least that's what I felt like - and still do).

Thank God he got done pretty fast - cause as soon as he left, I called the chiropractor and he was able to see me. I went and received my torture - and I honestly have to say I don't feel any better. He said I threw or twisted my pelvis out of place (what?!?!?!), so I guess I can't expect it to feel wonderful so fast - but I sure wish it would. I have to go back and see him on Monday.

Well - that was, and is, my ever so pleasant adventure for today. I can tell you right now....no more moving furniture for me!!! At least until I feel better....ROFL :) (just kidding)

Happy 42nd Birthday Doug!!!

The BIG 42!! Wow - it's seems like just yesterday we were little kids and you were sending me flying down the stairs on a plastic tv tray. ROFL

Ohhhhh - the memories!!

In truth, I'm so blessed to have you for my big brother.

Happy Birthday Doug!!

Love you!

The Big 42 Today!!!

P.S. Someone special wants to wish you a Happy Birthday .......

Happy Bday Doug,

Love, The King :)

I don't feel 36....

I feel older!!! LOL Just kidding. :)

At 5:07 am, 36 years ago today - I made my big entrance into this world. I really can't believe I'm that old already!! The number part doesn't bother me - but it seems like yesterday I was just a kid. Oh well, I'm a firm believer in "you're only as old as you feel". And the word on the street is that 40 is now the new 30....so hey!! That means I'm still in my 20's!! Works for me. :)

Happy Birthday to me!!!

P.S. - thank you honey for the new camera!! :)

The 1 year mark

Today marks the 1 year anniversary of when we started our Journey to Emilia. :)

(Come on March '06 - we're ready to meet our little girl!!!)

And another one down (5 to go)

Another month has gone by - and we are now (prayerfully) down to 5 months before we receive our referral for Emily.

This waiting really is a crazy thing. Some days the time seems to be going by so fast, but other days, it seems to be absolutely dragging.

Off to the races (the Busch race that is)

We were able to go the Busch race today (for free....thanks Dan!!!) and had a wonderful time. It was our first time to one of the big races, and boy did we get spoiled. We were in a suite (namely the UPS suite - which was quite funny considering John works for the competition) where we got free food and drinks, and we didn't have to sit out in the cold. It was great!!

Before the race began, we went down to try and get in the pits (because we were told we would have access) and try to hook up with Team Marine (my brother Doug is in like flint with those guys) but when we got down there (after walking a country mile) we were denied. Well, after all was said and done - the security team was messed up with their instructions, and we were suppose to have been allowed in the pit area....grrrrr....oh well. Wasn't meant to be.

Tony wasn't racing in the Busch race today (doggonit) but I did get to watch him qualify for tomorrow's race. Not as much fun as the "real" thing - but it was cool anyway.

Off to the races

View from our seats in the suite

Tony qualifying for Sunday's race

Here they come.....

And they're off!!

Team Marine (#25 - Ashton Lewis Jr.)

As close to Tony as I got today

Souvenir for Emily :)

Go Tony Go!!

Due to the fact that NASCAR has invaded Kansas this weekend (the track is 8 miles from my house) I thought it only fitting to wish the #1 ranked driver good luck this weekend. GO TONY GO!!!

oops! I did it again.....

Ok, I know I said after I bought Emily's first outfit I wasn't going to buy any more until we received her referral...oops!! It really wasn't my fault though. You see, I just stopped in this store and was just going to look, but then the most amazing thing happened...these items just jumped into my hands and my feet led me to the register. Really!!! It was out of my control....and that's my story, and I'm stickin' to it. :)


1) A ladybug swimsuit and hat?!?!?....a definate must have.




2) This shirt is in honor of my SIL Amy. She loves Piglet, but hates the "Big Fat Bear" (hee hee - poor Pooh) Now my other SIL, Angee, will have something to say about that. She loves Pooh!! :) (Hey...does that give me an excuse to buy a Pooh outfit??? Because I did find one. LOL)

3) Ducky PJ's (look at the feet!!!)

Ok - so that is a few of the items I got, but I'm going to hold off on showing the others until they are actually on Emily (that is if they fit her). I will admit here, that everyday the wait gets just a bit harder. I know when we get to hold her for the first time it will be the appointed time....but I want her now!! :)

OOOOOOO!! Goodies

I got home from work today to find a goodie box from Similac waiting for me/us. One of my July Dragonfly friends (that's a group of us that had our paperwork sent to China in July) suggested contacting different companies, explain that we are adopting, and request the gift(s) that usually go to parents when they have a baby in a hospital. Well, I did what she suggested...and voila!! Similac sent a very nice diaper bag, a bottle cooler, formula and baby wipes. Wonderful items that will definately be making the trip to China with us.

The History 101 Tour

"The Folks" (AKA - Dawn's Mom & Pops) :)

Last night we went to The History 101 concert featuring Matthew West and Shawn McDonald in Overland Park, KS. It was an excellent show, and the place was packed!! We took "The Folks" with us and we all had a great time. I highly recommend that if you get a chance to catch these guys - DO IT!!

Shawn McDonald http://shawnmcdonaldmusic.com/tour.php


Matthew West http://www.matthewwest.com/

The 1 month mark (6 to go)

Today is the 1 month mark for our paperwork being logged into the CCAA (China Center of Adoption Affairs) and what an appropriate package I found in the mailbox when I returned home from work....(I purchased it and knew it was coming) but it's kinda special that it arrived today) :)



I am going to attempt to learn some of my daughters language. I can't guarantee how it will go considering I wasn't very good with other languages in school - but I'll give it the 'Ol Harvard try (and I didn't even go to Harvard. I did visit once though).

It's official - I did it!!

I did it. I said I wasn't going to....but I did it. I bought Emily her first outfit!!

At this point, I don't have any idea what size she'll be when we get her, but this was just too adorable to pass up!! Don't you agree??? :)

Prayer request for Baby Gwen

Please say a prayer for Baby Gwen. Her adoption is one I have been following (link in sidebar) and today it was posted that her Mom & Dad had to take her to the hospital in China for severe dehydration. The poor little baby has been quite sick lately, and she needs your prayers. Also, please include Karen and Scott (her parents) in your prayers. They need rest and strength to get through this tough time. Thank you.

Precious Little Baby Gwen

New baby in the family

I want to say CONGRATULATIONS to my brother Doug and sister-in-law Amy....and welcome the newest member of their family: Rex Everything!!! Isn't he just the cutest?!?!?

Check it out - BLOG BLING!!!

DUB's for Emily!!! ROFL

Our Adoption Timeline

10/26/04 - Requested info from His Kids Adoptions International
11/13/04 - Set-up Homestudy meetings with Social Worker (SW)
11/17/04 - Application sent to His Kids Adoptions International
11/19/04 - Sent requests for marriage and birth certificates
11/22/04 - 1st Homestudy meeting with SW (Topeka)
11/26/04 - Sent off for SRS and police background checks
11/27/04 - Received Dawn's birth certificate
11/29/04 - 2nd Homestudy meeting with SW (Topeka)
12/03/04 - Received John's birth certificate and marriage certificate
12/06/04 - 3rd Homestudy meeting with SW (Topeka)
12/23/04 - Home visit and seperate/together interviews
01/22/05 - Attended 'Different But Equal' Adoption Education class
01/29/05 - Received copy of Homestudy report
02/03/05 - Received certificate of completion for 'DBE' adoption class
04/08/05 - Got passport photos taken
04/08/05 - Sent off for passports
04/26/05 - Received passports
05/23/05 - I-600A fingerprint appointment
06/24/05 - Received I-171 approval
06/27/05 - Submitted updated revisions for Homestudy
06/29/05 - Dossier overnighted to His Kids Adoptions International
07/15/05 - Received updated revisions to Homestudy (for our files)
07/27/05 - Dossier to China (DTC) !!!!
08/11/05 - Infamous brown envelope from China arrives
08/23/05 - Official LID (log in date at CCAA) !!!!

As of today: Waiting for Referral (approx. 6-7 months)
(once referral is received and accepted)
1. We will then wait for travel authorization (1-2 months)
2. Trip to China (2 weeks in country)
3. Home!!!

100 Good Wishes Quilt

Calling all family and friends!!

While we are waiting for Emily to arrive home, we are collecting "squares" to make a 100 Wishes Quilt for her, and we request your participation in this project.

"What is a 100 Good Wishes Quilt?" you may be asking....let me explain:

To welcome and celebrate a new life, there is a tradition in the northern part of China to make a Bai Jia Bei, or 100 Good Wishes Quilt. It is a custom to invite 100 people to contribute a single square patch of cloth. The 100 patches are sewn together into a quilt that contains the prayers, blessings, and good wishes from all the family and friends who contributed a piece of fabric. (For those of you that are familiar with the quilt, you may have noticed that I changed luck to prayers, and energy to blessings. I like those much better.) The quilt is then passed down from generation to generation. We would really love it if you would join us in this project and send us a square.

WHAT TO DO:

1. Select a fabric that you like, or that is meaningful to you that could work for either a boy or girl. It can be new or "used and meaningful" fabric. 100% cotton is best, as it washes and wears better. Please pre-wash the fabric so it has done all the shrinking it is going to do before you cut it.

2. Cut one 7" x 7" square and one 1" x 1" square. The smaller square should be attached to your "good wishes" message/card and is how your fabric will be identified within the quilt. If there are several members in your family, please feel free to send more than one square and wish (just please be sure to include the 1" x 1").

THE WISH:

1. Your wish and the way it is presented can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. The wish might be a prayer, a favorite poem, a heart felt random thought or quote, or anything that strikes your fancy. Please remember to sign your wish and include your city and state. Also, if you would like, include why you chose the fabric (what it means to you). I will be making a scrapebook for Emily containing the wishes collected, so that when she gets older, she can see how much love went into this quilt.

I know everyone has very busy schedules, but if you could take a few minutes to help us create this wonderful keepsake, we would be forever grateful.

If you would like to participate, please e-mail me dawns@kc.rr.com and I will provide you our mailing address.

Thank you and may GOD bless you.

Sonogram of Emily

"WHAT?!?!?" you may be saying....but hey, WE'RE PREGNANT!!! Paper pregnant that is. LOL (thanks Dawn B. for that line - I love it!!)

NOTE: If you look real close, you may be able to see her twin Abigail!!

Yes, twin - we've recently started praying and believing that we'll be blessed with twins! (It's happened - and we are approved for two children, so we'll see)

Beginning our journey

A lot of our family and friends know about our decision to adopt, but for those who don’t, I’ll give a brief history of how we began this wonderful journey we are on.

John and I were married in August of ‘97. In October of ‘98, we decided we would start a family. Well, GOD apparently had other plans because it didn’t happen like we thought it would. I imagine there’s a lot of people that don’t consider that when they decide it’s time to start a family, there’s a possibility it won’t happen - I know we didn’t. Anyway, we went along for a couple years thinking that it would eventually happen…but nope, nothing. There was some testing done on both of us, but nothing came back conclusive stating that children were out of the question. A couple more years went by, and having mutually decided that we were not going to go the invitro route, I started surfing the web, and requested adoption information from a ton of different agencies.

When I first approached John about adopting, he wasn’t exactly thrilled with the idea. He didn’t discount it all together, he just wasn’t as jazzed about it as me. Ever since I was a little girl, I always wanted to adopt, but John was hoping to have biological children first.

The requested adoption information started to come in, and there was one agency that really clicked with me, but with so many agency choices (and it being a very important decision) we needed to be in agreement with the choice. I didn’t press the issue with John (ok - not too much anyway) but I gave him a list of agencies and their phone #’s. I wanted him to talk to people and see what kind of response he got. Well, he called a lot them, and we set up an appointment with an agency to see how they did things. I was ecstatic. We were really going to talk to an agency!!!

Ok - long story short regarding the meeting…..it just didn’t click for us. That’s not saying that there was anything wrong with that agency, it’s just that we were hoping to work with a more CHRIST centered one, and we just didn’t feel like that was the right place for us.

On the ride home, I was a bit on the sad side. But as we were discussing how we felt about the whole thing, I asked him if he had called this one particular agency. He said he hadn’t, but that he would call them the next day. Imagine my surprise when I received an excited call from him the following afternoon saying, “That’s the agency we’re using!” He had talked to them, and felt in his spirit (just as I had) that this was the agency we were to use. We were both in agreement, and we started the process that will at long last bring us together with our daughter (or Princess, as I call her - LOL).

I would also like to say here that for anybody that doubts whether or not prayer really works….IT DOES!! I spent a lot of time asking (pleading) for GOD to change John’s heart about adoption, and HE did it!! HE opened John’s eyes to how we are all adopted into GOD’s family - and once this revelation happened, we have been happily plugging along ever since.

I can't believe it's finally ready!!

WOW!! After working on setting up this site for a couple days, I think it's finally ready to roll....and now it's time for me to go to bed. Whaaaaa!!

Oh well, I'll hit it again tomorrow. I believe I've formed yet another addiction, and it's to this site - so don't fear, I'll return tomorrow with some more info regarding our adoption to date.

I would like to leave you with one of my favorite pictures (he/she makes me laugh).

Good night all!! Goodnight John Boy....Goodnight Mary Ellen (was that one of them??) Now the Brady's, I can name 'em all!! LOL