The (Post) Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 2

Storybook Land!

For those of you who don't live in NJ, we have a really neat "amusement park" for little kids that has been around for a long time. The rides and attractions are mostly based off of classic nursery rhymes or books. I remember going there on a kindegarten field trip, and I couldn't wait to someday bring my own children there. And, to make it even better, during the holiday season, it is decorated with millions of lights! The photos don't do it justice....what a fun night!

We found out that Mondays were "1/2 price Mondays" in the month of December, so we thought we would rather go then, to avoid the weekend crowd. Boy, were we wrong! There were two entrances, both with lines wrapping around the parking lots! But, it was a warm night, and we had already driven 40 minutes there, so we weren't going to bag it. Plus, we had met my sister, Laura, and her husband, Dave to join us, so we were sticking this out!

By divine appointment, we were in line behind a Russian couple who had a 2 year old, and a baby on the way. After hearing them talk to their little girl, I took one look at Greg and whispered, "I haven't heard it for almost a year, but I think they're speaking Russian!" He agreed, and I mustered up the guts to strike up a conversation with them. We found out that they go to a local Ukranian Baptist Church, and travel back to Russia yearly to serve in orphanages in Siberia. They also are a part of a program that helps to give Russian orphans a chance to come to the US in the summers (almost like a student exchange program?). We were able to share our story, and our passion for Russian orphans, and ended up exhanging contact information. I am very hopeful that this may lead to a way we can continue to help orphans from a country that has become very near and dear to our hearts.

Meeting this family made me forget entirely about the long wait- before we knew it, we were through the doors, and said our good-byes to our new friends.

And, then, the fun began!!

If we didn't urge him, Landon could have stood by these displays all night!

A Digger!!!

In line for the train ride that goes around the park- funny story here!

...well, it is funny now. After waiting with Ethan in line for about 40 minutes while Greg, Laura, and Dave took Landon on a fun Turtle tilt a wheel ride, we were almost to the front of the line. We were literally 3 people from the front, sure to be riding on the next train to pull into the "station." With minutes to go, Landon looks at us, and says, "Potty!" AH! the dilemma...do we leave the line we waited SO long in, and take him, or try to see if he could hold it? (Boy, did I wish they had a little potty in the train station area!) We decided, as you will see below, to risk it!

And, we were off!!

Next up? Driving the cars!!!

He loved it!!

Due to the crowd, we weren't able to go on that many rides- live and learn. My motto became: Half the price, half the rides! :( But, we still had fun! We ended our night getting some dinner (at 8:30!) to bring with us for our long car ride home. We found a really neat BIG chair that he loved!

Next up in Day 3?!?  Landon being...Landon. :0)

The (Post) Twelve Days of Christmas- Day 1

Wow...what a month! I am running on adrenaline, having just had our entire family over for dinner and cake and ice cream for Landon's 3rd Birthday! So, before heading to bed, I am going to attempt to begin a series of posts that will help chronicle our version of the "most wonderful time of the year."

At Ethan's 4 month doctor visit, we got the clear to start him on fruits and vegetables. We were so excited for this new phase to begin, but because neither Greg or I wanted to miss out on his 1st time eating, we waited until Saturday morning, December 3rd, to give it a go!

So, here it is! Our boy right after his first vegetable- Sweet Potatoes!!

The look of shock and wonder! Mr. Serious did, indeed, like his food!

 (even though he doesn't look like it)

Then, the very next day, December 4th, we did two exciting things- we took Landon up the road to a local salon who was hosting a holiday open house. There, they had Santa, Mrs. Claus, and elves set up for a photo shoot! This was Landon's first time seeing Santa!



I have to admit, I expected him to refuse, but he didn't! Although he isn't smiling for the camera, he did really enjoy it, and asked to see Santa again!

We also had our wonderful Aunt Faith come over to take some pictures of the boys in front of our Christmas tree for our card. Here are just a few of my favorites!

Smiling with Daddy!

All our kiddos!!

You want me to smile...again?

Our newest family picture!



Our 1st Family Day Anniversary!

I know it is so cliche, but, boy, TIME FLIES! I can NOT believe it has been a year since we were in Russia, picking up our boy. In one sense, it seems like yesterday...and, in another, it seems like it was an eternity ago. I feel as if I cannot remember a day without either of our boys.


Here is our family photo that our wonderful translator/facilitator took for us as we exited the Moscow Baby House #20 with Landon in arms, December 20, 2010.  The first shot, I have zoomed out, so you can see the building. The second shot, I zoomed in- I never noticed before tonight Landon's face....love it!!

Do you see that smirk?!?

It makes me smile so big to think what he must have been thinking at that moment!! The memories are so fresh: Our happy car ride back to our hotel, with Landon seated in between us. He was so wide eyed, looking all around, and just happy to be with us. Our trips out in the umbrella stroller through snow and mush to eat our meals. Good thing we found a super delicous (and cheap!) Chinese restaurant a block away from our hotel! I haven't had fried rice like I had there to this day. It was soooo good! Life in our hotel with an almost 2 year old at the time who just wanted to play with the phone, or outlets, or anything he shouldn't have been, for that matter. Some pretty severe tantrums. Some, fun, FUN simple moments we enjoyed getting to show Landon some things for the very first time!!

Here is a little video I just put together of some of our trip 3 memories. 

I know Landon's smooth transition over this past year was a complete miracle. When I think about his story, his beginning, I can't help but become full of emotion. God is good! We are so thankful and happy to have him home with us, and praying daily for every orphan to be united with their forever family.

Happy 1st Family Day, Landon! We love you!!!



Reunion memories and 1st Anniversary of DAH DAY!

December 6, 2010 The day we were re-united with Landon. Here is a link to the blog post I wrote on that day, after our visit at the orphanage.
http://jer2911theplansihaveforyou.blogspot.com/2010/12/our-1st-reunion.html?m=1

Because, at the time, Landon wasn't legally our son, we could not post pictures or videos. So, today, a year (+ 2 days) later, I compiled a few of the videos that we took during that visit.

December 8, 2010-AKA our DAH DAY, we akoke rather nervously (well, I did at least..Greg was calm as usual- maybe it is because he is in a court room a lot more frequently than I am!) and dressed into our super fancy court attire.

And we were off! Off to the Moscow City Courthouse! Where, after careful preparation and waiting, we were brought into a grand room with a beautiful royalty-like chair to have our case, our request to adopt, reviewed. Each of us walked nervously up to the podium to be questioned by the judge. After a brief recess, the judge came back into the courtroom and we were given the verdict: DAH!!...As she was reading the formal wording, "I hereby grant..." my throat swelled and tears filled my eyes. It was such a surreal moment. Our son was legally ours! Our translator/agency in country representative gave us both congratulatory hugs and we exited the courtroom. To this day, I remember very clearly the words she said to us as we walked out: Well, you did it! I'll see you back in a few years for a girl! I couldn't help but chuckle at the thought... :) ...you never know!?!?

Of course, we had to then go back home without Landon and come back after a legal 10 day wait period before we could have him in our arms forever, but this time, leaving wasn't nearly as difficult. I knew we were coming back...in a little under two weeks, and that was a timetable I could handle!

So, today marks a happy day. These next few weeks will be the same way. What a perfect reminder for us to thank God daily for our son.

Below are KLove's Encouraging Words from today and yesterday. I thought these verses fit perfectly with our reunion and "Dah" day remembrance!

Psalm 40

For the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 I waited patiently for the LORD to help me,
and he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
and steadied me as I walked along.
3 He has given me a new song to sing,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what he has done and be amazed.
They will put their trust in the LORD.

4 Oh, the joys of those who trust the LORD,
who have no confidence in the proud
or in those who worship idols.
5 O LORD my God, you have performed many wonders for us.
Your plans for us are too numerous to list.
You have no equal.
If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds,
I would never come to the end of them.

Psalm 37

*
A psalm of David.
3 Trust in the LORD and do good.
Then you will live safely in the land and prosper.
4 Take delight in the LORD,
and he will give you your heart's desires.
5 Commit everything you do to the LORD.
Trust him, and he will help you.


These happy days of fond memories are such good reminders to pray for our dear friends the DeVols who are praying and anxiously awaiting the news that they will be able to return to Ethiopia to bring Ezekiel home. We are praying for Ezekiel's Christmas miracle...to be home with his family!!

Thanksgiving #1

I can not believe it- a year ago this past Friday we got the call that we were invited to come back to Russia for our court date. I will never forget how horribly sad I was from October 8th when we came home until that day we got the news. Once I knew we were going back, my sadness turned to Thanksgiving, as I found out we would be home for Christmas! I still am shocked a year later.

Sooo, who would have guessed that this Thanksgiving we would be saying how thankful we are for 2 boys?!?! God is amazing! What a wonderful Thanksgiving we had- SO much to be thankful for!!

I am going to try to use my November photos to share a few things I am thankful for (in no particular order!) :)

Reason #1 - My handsome Russian-American who is so stinkin' cute. He made my whole day this morning when he said, "Mommy pretty" as I was kissing him goodbye for work.

It looke like someone enjoyed his 1st Thanksgiving meal!!!

Reason #2 - Handsome #2! I am so blessed to be able to experience being a mama to a baby. It is oh, SO different, and I am loving every minute! My cheeks actually hurt at times from smiling so big back at this little face!

Happy Thanksgiving also = Happy 4 months, Ethan!!

Weighed in at 14 lbs, 2 oz. and  measuring 25 1/2 inches!

Reason #3- We are so blessed to have all of our needs met, and are thankful for the opportunity to share with others

Preparing shoe boxes to send off with Samaritan's Purse!

Reason #4- We have a family who has prayed for, welcomed, and loved our boys from the start!



Ethan is laughing so much now! Here he is with his with his Aunt Wawa, laughing with his great Grandmom!

Reason #5- Having a chance to see my mom be a "Nana"- watching her with the boys brings back such fond childhood memories! I want to be just like her! ('nuff said...eyes brimming with tears) :)



Nana and Landon making a pilgrim together!

Reason #6- I have a husband who is an AMAZING father. 

Ethan and Daddy talking to each other- I love this!! It melts my heart!

Reason #7- For our church family who helped to bring home Landon with their prayers and financial support. 

Landon with his Cubbies leader, Miss Kelsey! ...whom he adores! :)

Reason #8 I have the best in-laws anyone could ever ask for! 

Someone loves to cook!! Landon helping Mommom make Thanksgiving dinner!

Reason #9- Repeat of #8- love my brother in law (who was 4 when we started dating...ah! where has the time gone?) and my "4th sister" who is making me an aunt...finally!! :)

Making Turkey Apples!!! 

Reason #10- For being placed in such an amazing, Godly family who has raised me to know and love God. What a legacy I pray we continue in...4 generations.

4 Generations!!

Reason #11-  My sisters!! My best friends!

Just as I thought I would, I feel like I'm leaving so much/many out.  I have so many reasons I am thankful- I am blessed. And, to quote Rev. McCray from last Sunday's sermon, I am "Blessed for a purpose" and my "Blessing doesn't come without responsibility." Two statements that I am challenged to remember and live up to daily.

And, on that note, I'm going to call it a night...call it a post. Because, right now, I am thankful for REST! 

Orphan Sunday 2011

I left Russia last October a changed person. Never had I seen in person such sad, emotionless faces on so many children. Many who had known more trauma in their few years than you and I may ever know. Some who have never been kissed or hugged, or been told "I love you." While the orphanage staff takes care of their physical needs (even some struggle to do that for the numbers they are providing for), they are not able to give them the love and support they need. I think back to the day Landon was placed on the couch in Moscow, Orphanage #20 to meet us. The look on his face is the same look that was on the many children we had to leave without.

Until our "Gotcha" Day when we were taking Landon out of the orphanage forever to be with us, we were never able to see his living quarters. But, on that day, as if God knew He wanted to paint this picture in my mind and heart forever, we were taken into "his" room and told to change him into the clothes we had brought. After doing that, we scooped him up, and told him "Say, Paka Paka to all your friends, Landon." As I turned and helped him wave, I looked out, and saw these expressionless faces that looked like they were saying, "Why not me?" Oh, if only I could! The very thought gets to me everytime. I actually struggled for a while after returning from Russia with thoughts like, "Why, God?" "It's not fair" After wrestling with those thoughts for some time, I was reminded in a still small voice that WE are His hands and feet. God COULD just save every orphan all by Himself, but He wants to use US.


Here is a short video for this year's Orphan Sunday. I know this year we were only able to make our church family and friends aware of Orphan Sunday, but next year I pray we are able to do something bigger...I don't know what yet- my mind jumps from organizing prayer groups, special Sunday School awareness classes, to organizing a mission trip to serve in orphanages. I'm praying for some guidance here. :)


http://vimeo.com/28012514

Just some final thoughts to leave with you:

These are a few things that we have seen in Landon first hand...

1) Not all kids know how to be held- you know, the squeezing of the legs around your waist when you carry a child. Yes, this is a learned behavior from being held this way.

2) Children under 1 year old can eat by themselves with china table settings and huge metal spoons

3) Not all kids know what a present is, or what to do when you hand them a box that is wrapped

4) Not all kids know what it's like to be rocked or held while falling asleep. These kids learn how to "rock" themselves back and forth to fall asleep (not so gently, either) :(

5) Kids are resiliant and God is good- He allows us to re-teach and re-mold

Thank the Lord, Landon has adjusted so well and so quickly- Our overly affectionate boy now begs to have us rub his back while falling alseep, and wants "one more" kiss, and asks us to help feed him now. He loves opening presents, and loves being held and carried. When I think back to just a year ago this time, I am amazed. With God's help and grace, our little boy is new! Yes, he is still Russian (and boy does he know it! :) ) , and yes, he still has a past full of hurt, but he has a WHOLE lot of love now and seems to really love life...and his family! And, that, well, THAT makes all the money, all the paperwork, the hours on the airplane, hours in a car feeling so SO carsick, and anything else I had frowned at last year OH so SO worth it! And, as crazy as it may sound, I would do it all again in a heartbeat, and pray that if it is God's will, we may.

See a trend? We have a boy who loves to LOVE. I thank God so often for His grace, for making something beautiful out of such beginnings....

You may not be called to adopt, but please, PLEASE pray. Pray that God will tug on the hearts of those who are to adopt, and that they would follow that call. Pray that God will provide for them (emotionally, physically, financially). Pray for the orphans that are waiting for this "family" that they met to return to them (I can only imagine how hard that is to understand...I know how hard it was on my end!), Pray for all those who are waiting for their forever families....pray that until they can feel physical love that God will wrap His arms around them, and provide for them in a miraculous way. And, pray for all those who are working with organizations and agencies worldwide- that they will have the wisdom to match families and children. And, last, but not least, please pray for those who have already been adopted- that they will be able to work through their past hurts and become something new and beautiful.

Catch up time!!!

Wow, boy does it feel good to sit here and BLOG! :) I really have been missing my journal outlet! Not to mention the memories I know it will make to read about later as the years have gone by (enough of that talk...slow down, time!!).

Our fall has been crazy busy so far! We drove out to Kentucky the end of September to see Aunt "Doily" (Jill...that's how Landon says her name) ;)  get married, we took a family "trip" to Duffield's Farm, Poppie's birthday, the Cubbies hayride, I went back to work, and now Halloween festivities!
Rather than telling things in my normal novel format, I will be changing to a picture book pace in attempts to get everything into one blog post.

Ready? :0)

Our handsome ringbearer right before walking down the isle!

What a good boy! A pleasant change of pace for Landon, here. At the rehearsal, he sprinted up the isle, flinging his glove (aka pillow) off into the pews somewhere, and ran up the stairs to the platform, and jumped off. After picking my stomach up off the floor, I was mortified and nervous about how he was going to be on game day. Thank God, our boy was behaved! ...even though Aunt Jill wishes he would have had a repeat of the rehearsal!

My mom came with us to the wedding. What a lifesaver she was! It was so nice to have an extra pair of hands! She also made the suit you will see Ethan wearing in the upcoming pictures- TOO CUTE!!!

Here is Landon with "Chick" - a close family friend who actually used to be one of our youth group leaders when Greg and I were in Agape, and who bought Greg's truck from us this summer. Well, one day I was in the bathroom getting ready, Landon came running in yelling, "Mom, come, Chick!" So, I take his hand, and follow him into our bedroom only to see him  point to the TV. I had left the Disney channel on. Phinneas and Ferb was on...and here is the character he calls, "Chick" I almost lost it. I cracked up! It is now another "Jar Jar" funny look alike story!

Chick AKA Major Malcolm

Landon looking at Uncle Drew with Ethan looking at Aunt "Doily" Jilly

Our hard to capture family photo with the beautiful bride!

Two days after we returned from Kentucky, was my Poppop's birthday. We gathered in a little room hin his assisted living facility and surprised him with some cake and ice cream! While we were there, we took the opportunity to get an updated 4 generations photo!

Poppop (Poppi to Landon), My dad (Grandpop), Me, Landon, and Ethan

On October 8th, we were able to go to the local Duffield's Farm for pumpkin picking and a hayride. It was here that we discovered just how yummy their homemade cider, homemade and hot cider donuts are! 

Me and sleepy Ethan on the hayride

Family photo in the pumpkin patch

Daddy and Landon on the hayride!

Just two weeks later, our church kids' group "Cubbies" (for Landon's age group) went to the same farm for a hayride! Needless to say, he thinks hayrides occur weekly now, and asks for them almost daily "when Mr. Sun up." The night before the hayride, was our 11th wedding anniversary. Greg got me a new camera! Horray! The old point and shoot I had smelled like it was burning wires for the past 6 months or so, and was so slow at taking pictures that I constantly missed some great "faces"! I kept saying, "I can't wait until Christmas- all I want is a new camera!" Well, I was surprised a bit early! :) All the rest of these pictures were taken with my new camera!

Here is Landon with his friends, Sophia and Tyler. Both are the children of girls Greg was in our church youth group with! We are still friends with them today, and it is so neat to have the three of us with kids at the same age!

Daddy couldn't join us on the Cubbies hayride because he was working, so Poppop came along!

What a fun time it was with him!

Me and my boys!

 Here is Ethan's smile- captured on my new "fast" camera!

Next up, painting pumpkins! A family tradition Greg's family has done for years!

Landon's first time painting! He loved it!

Group shot- yummy hot cider and painting pumpkins- what a combo!

Our finished projects! Can you guess which one is Landon's?

Mommom got a cute Mickey Halloween candy corn hat. Landon enjoyed putting it on Ethan!

And, here is a serious kiss from an awesome big brother

Looking forward to a weekend home together! Hopefully it won't be so long before our next update!