Major changes are in store for the Big D family. It is scary ... but exciting at the same time.
Four and a half years ago, the Lord led me to start a Parent Partnership Program for homeschooling families. The enrichment school has been blessed beyond measure, ending this year with 185+ students and 20 staff. Jim and I have both worked full-time (while at the same time homeschooling all of our own children) at the school. We have poured our hearts into our jobs, because they were so much more than "just jobs" ... our school was our ministry.
I won't bore you with all of the details ... but the local School Board has decided to move the school in new directions. My position has been terminated. And, while they cannot actually fire Jim (because of his continuing contract), his job is very uncertain at this time also.
In addition to Jim's teaching position, he has also had a painting business for the past 25+ years. This year, however, has been our slowest year yet. This week, Jim is doing his 2nd job for the summer. Thus ... our painting income has also been drastically reduced.
With the loss of my job, and the loss of the painting income, we are entering the fall trying to figure out how we are going to live on less than 1/2 of our income. Yes, it's a bit scary. However ... God has given us an AMAZING peace about the whole situation. We have had numerous confirmations of God's hand in this, and we are excited to step out and see what HIS next assignment is.
Prior to starting the school, I had a Speaking & Writing Ministry, Journey of Faith, for 20 years. I have written regularly for 2 publications: Hearts at Home ... and TEACH: To Encourage And Challenge Homeschoolers And, I have done Inspirational Speaking in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia (with one conference in Illinois). I have spoken at Mothers of Preschoolers groups, Women's Retreats, Women's Ministry Events, Family Camps, and Homeschool Conferences. Papa and I have also spoken at several Marriage Retreats. This ministry, however, has been on the shelf for the past 4 years. I am now ... pulling it off the shelf, shaking off the dust, and getting very excited to jump back in to the world of Christian speaking and writing.
I hope to create a website by the end of the month, which will give more information about my speaking ministry. I need to make new brochures, re-work my talks, create new retreats (the Lord just gave me a great one last week), re-publish my self-published (comb-binding) books: Life is Like a Circus ... What's Cooking ... Miracles Happen ... I also need to put my talks on CD, so that I can sell them through my website. (Right when I put this ministry up on the shelf, I was just selling out of all of my cassette tapes.)
So, if you know of any groups looking for a speaker ... let me know. I would LOVE to bring words of encouragement to you and your friends, in the areas of: parenting, adoption, homeschooling, finances, marriage, or growing in your faith. Some of my talks from the past were titled:
Life is Like a Circus
The Challenge of Chores for Children
Siblings: Teamwork or Torment
Homeschooling a Houseful: Teaching Toddlers and Teenagers and all the In-Between-Agers
What's Cooking: How to Save Time in the Kitchen and Money at the Grocery Store
There is Hope (seeing God in the midst of trial and tragedy)
Miracles Happen
Joy for the Journey (the work of the Holy Spirit)
Experiencing God's Presence (the power of prayer)
One of our Marriage Retreats was: The Seasons of Marriage
One of my Women's Retreats was: The Journey of Faith
And ... the new retreat outline that the Lord has given me ...
Faith: a Fantastic Adventure In Trusting Him
We also ask that you lift our family up to the Lord in prayer, as we navigate this new faith walk.
#1 That God would give us wisdom on how to stretch our finances.
#2 That God would provide more painting jobs for Jim.
#3 That God would bring speaking opportunities to me, for this fall.
(Yes ... I love to travel ... for all of you blogging friends across the country.)
#4 That God would give understanding to all of the younger children
(there will be some serious lifestyle changes).
And that they would embrace this new adventure that the Lord is taking us on.
(We especially don't want our African children to feel any sense of loss or fear due to the financial changes.)
#5 That God would continue to give us His "peace that passes all understanding."
Welcome to Our Journey of Faith. My blog is a place where I share the joys and trials of living a faith-filled life as the mother of an extra large (12 children) homeschooling family, and my prayer is that it brings encouragement to others to live their lives as an adventure of faith, as well.
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Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Monday, August 11, 2008
There's No One Like You
I bought Rachel a book last week ... for her 7th birthday.
"My Adopted Child, There's No One Like You"
The story is about a Panda who was adopted by a Brown Bear family. One day, at school, Panda was instructed to illustrate his Family Tree.
The children and I enjoyed sharing this story, and discussing what it means for our family.
We learned what a Family Tree is and how special the Family Tree of an Adopted Child is.
We learned that while our African children were born in my heart, rather than my tummy, they are loved just as much.
We talked about what makes our family very special, although quite unusual ...
... we have 13 children.
... we have white children and black children.
... we have some children that were born in my tummy
and some that were born in my heart.
(One interesting fact that our children realized was that we know 2 other families with 13 children, and both of those families have white children and black children.)
We talked about how special it was that God picked Jacob, Sarah, and Rachel to be sisters and a brother to our other children. While our children lived across the world from each other, God knew each and every one of them, and chose them to be brothers and sisters.
I shared the story of how the Lord had told me that I would be the mother of black children, but for 8 months I didn't know who those children were to be, or where they lived. Then I shared how Mrs. S had traveled to Africa, met these 3 precious children, and the Lord had impressed it upon her heart that she was to tell us about them. And ... I shared how, the moment Papa saw their picture on the computer, the Lord told Papa that these were to be his children.
What a special story time we had!
"My Adopted Child, There's No One Like You"
The story is about a Panda who was adopted by a Brown Bear family. One day, at school, Panda was instructed to illustrate his Family Tree.
The children and I enjoyed sharing this story, and discussing what it means for our family.
We learned what a Family Tree is and how special the Family Tree of an Adopted Child is.
We learned that while our African children were born in my heart, rather than my tummy, they are loved just as much.
We talked about what makes our family very special, although quite unusual ...
... we have 13 children.
... we have white children and black children.
... we have some children that were born in my tummy
and some that were born in my heart.
(One interesting fact that our children realized was that we know 2 other families with 13 children, and both of those families have white children and black children.)
We talked about how special it was that God picked Jacob, Sarah, and Rachel to be sisters and a brother to our other children. While our children lived across the world from each other, God knew each and every one of them, and chose them to be brothers and sisters.
I shared the story of how the Lord had told me that I would be the mother of black children, but for 8 months I didn't know who those children were to be, or where they lived. Then I shared how Mrs. S had traveled to Africa, met these 3 precious children, and the Lord had impressed it upon her heart that she was to tell us about them. And ... I shared how, the moment Papa saw their picture on the computer, the Lord told Papa that these were to be his children.
What a special story time we had!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Update from Amman
Periodically, I will be giving updates from Jeremiah. He does have a blog, for all of you personal friends. However, for security reasons (the ministry in Amman) he is unable to make his blog public domain.
Jeremiah's trip so far ...
#1 A 1 hour delay and 3 gate changes before departing from Seattle.
#2 An 8 hour layover in New York (would have been 9, if he hadn't had the delay in Seattle). During this 8 hours, the airline was somehow unable to get J's baggage from one airplane to the next.
#3 He arrived in Jordan only to discover that none of his luggage had arrived with him. His carryon did NOT include any clothing, so he is wearing the same t-shirt and pants that he left in (48 hours and 10,000 miles ago).
And ... an update on his living situation ...
"After lunch, over coffee, before dessert, I was talking to one of Pastor J's relatives and he asked where I was staying....[those of you who know the answer should be laughing by now]....I said "I don't know yet, I'm hoping I walk down the street and someone stops me to offer me a place to stay." He says, "How much are you expecting to pay?" I say "I don't know what is standard, but I was praying for under US$300. Is that reasonable?" He says "Forget the walk, I have a pad for rent....two bedrooms, living area, garden...it's lovely. Find a roommate from the school and we'll talk." Indeed, God does provide everything for His beloved children in His time and in His way."
God is Good !!! I KNOW that GOD could have arranged this apartment (through Pastor J.) prior to Jeremiah's arrival. However ... GOD knew that Jeremiah needed to step out in FAITH.
Jeremiah's trip so far ...
#1 A 1 hour delay and 3 gate changes before departing from Seattle.
#2 An 8 hour layover in New York (would have been 9, if he hadn't had the delay in Seattle). During this 8 hours, the airline was somehow unable to get J's baggage from one airplane to the next.
#3 He arrived in Jordan only to discover that none of his luggage had arrived with him. His carryon did NOT include any clothing, so he is wearing the same t-shirt and pants that he left in (48 hours and 10,000 miles ago).
And ... an update on his living situation ...
"After lunch, over coffee, before dessert, I was talking to one of Pastor J's relatives and he asked where I was staying....[those of you who know the answer should be laughing by now]....I said "I don't know yet, I'm hoping I walk down the street and someone stops me to offer me a place to stay." He says, "How much are you expecting to pay?" I say "I don't know what is standard, but I was praying for under US$300. Is that reasonable?" He says "Forget the walk, I have a pad for rent....two bedrooms, living area, garden...it's lovely. Find a roommate from the school and we'll talk." Indeed, God does provide everything for His beloved children in His time and in His way."
God is Good !!! I KNOW that GOD could have arranged this apartment (through Pastor J.) prior to Jeremiah's arrival. However ... GOD knew that Jeremiah needed to step out in FAITH.
"Go Into All The World ..."
Years ago, when we were teaching all of our elementary and middle school children history and geography, through the use of missionary biographies, we had no idea what doors would open in their hearts, and around the world. It thrills my heart to see what the Lord is doing in and through each of our young adult children.
Yesterday, we said "Good-bye." to Jeremiah as he was about to board a plane to the Middle East. Yes ... after 4 1/2 years in the army, Gregg is finally home from the Middle East. No, Jeremiah has not joined the army. But, as a member of God's army, Jeremiah has just embarked on the adventure of a lifetime ... 2 years in Amman, Jordan.
While studying Political Science at Liberty University in Virginia, Jeremiah realized that the Lord was leading him into a new area of Government, one he hadn't yet considered. After some research, he decided to attend an Arabic Language school in Jordan, in order to learn not only the language, but the culture as well. His intention, at the time, was to become an Arabic translator for the U.S. Government in the Middle East. While he has never waivered in his calling to spend 2 years in Jordan ... we are all wondering what the Lord's ultimate plan for the training will be.
Jeremiah spent this past year working 2 jobs in order to pay off his school loans from Liberty. At the same time, he had hoped to raise all of the necessary funds for Jordan. However, the cost of living in Jordan has increased much more dramatically this year, than Jeremiah's bank account has. But ... we all have felt peace that this was God's plan for his life, and that He would provide the funding.
Just 2 months ago, our pastor took a mission trip to Amman, Jordan. He came home with a very definite calling to find someone within our church that would be available to move to Amman, Jordan to work as an administrative assistant for the pastor in Jordan that our church supports. Pastor K. asked his daughter if she would be interested, as she has been there several times. But, she responded, "No, Dad. You need to call Jeremiah." So, in the past 2 months, Jeremiah has had numerous meetings with Pastor K. and with the Director of Missions for our church; and our church is coming alongside Jeremiah to provide a portion of his expenses so that he can provide ministry assistance to Pastor J. in Amman. Praise the Lord.
Jeremiah is a very detail oriented person, that needs to have concrete, specific plans before moving ahead with any decisions. This adventure, though, has already stretched him in many ways. Not only did Jeremiah purchase a plane ticket and head to the Middle East without any idea how the Lord is going to provide the rest of the funding ... but, he headed to Jordan without even knowing where he is going to live. He doesn't even know where he will sleep tonight, his first day there. God said, "Go ... Trust Me ... and I will give you the directions when you need them." We are sooo... proud of Jeremiah to step out in complete faith, knowing that he does not need to have every detail planned.
Many of my friends have asked, "How are you?" with Jeremiah leaving, assuming that I would be very sad (as most moms would be). But ... while I will definitely miss Jeremiah ... I am just so excited for all that the Lord will do in and through him. I am sooo... honored that the Lord would choose me ... just an ordinary mama ... to train up so many warriors for His army. Our whole family has done mission trips to Los Angeles and to New Orleans. Gregg has ministered in Mexico. Cassie has ministered in Haiti, Africa, and India. Jeremiah will be our first long-term missionary, to the Iraqi refugees in Jordan. Carissa has ministered in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Argentina. Lindsey has ministered in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Germany (and is preparing to leave next month for 6 months in Germany). I can hardly wait to see where the Lord will call the next 8 younger children to minister.
So, today as we are missing Jeremiah ... we also want to celebrate the amazing son ... brother ... and missionary that the Lord has given to our family. We love you Jeremiah!
Jeremiah ... ministering in New Orleans.
Jeremiah ... a fantastic brother.
Yesterday, we said "Good-bye." to Jeremiah as he was about to board a plane to the Middle East. Yes ... after 4 1/2 years in the army, Gregg is finally home from the Middle East. No, Jeremiah has not joined the army. But, as a member of God's army, Jeremiah has just embarked on the adventure of a lifetime ... 2 years in Amman, Jordan.
While studying Political Science at Liberty University in Virginia, Jeremiah realized that the Lord was leading him into a new area of Government, one he hadn't yet considered. After some research, he decided to attend an Arabic Language school in Jordan, in order to learn not only the language, but the culture as well. His intention, at the time, was to become an Arabic translator for the U.S. Government in the Middle East. While he has never waivered in his calling to spend 2 years in Jordan ... we are all wondering what the Lord's ultimate plan for the training will be.
Jeremiah spent this past year working 2 jobs in order to pay off his school loans from Liberty. At the same time, he had hoped to raise all of the necessary funds for Jordan. However, the cost of living in Jordan has increased much more dramatically this year, than Jeremiah's bank account has. But ... we all have felt peace that this was God's plan for his life, and that He would provide the funding.
Just 2 months ago, our pastor took a mission trip to Amman, Jordan. He came home with a very definite calling to find someone within our church that would be available to move to Amman, Jordan to work as an administrative assistant for the pastor in Jordan that our church supports. Pastor K. asked his daughter if she would be interested, as she has been there several times. But, she responded, "No, Dad. You need to call Jeremiah." So, in the past 2 months, Jeremiah has had numerous meetings with Pastor K. and with the Director of Missions for our church; and our church is coming alongside Jeremiah to provide a portion of his expenses so that he can provide ministry assistance to Pastor J. in Amman. Praise the Lord.
Jeremiah is a very detail oriented person, that needs to have concrete, specific plans before moving ahead with any decisions. This adventure, though, has already stretched him in many ways. Not only did Jeremiah purchase a plane ticket and head to the Middle East without any idea how the Lord is going to provide the rest of the funding ... but, he headed to Jordan without even knowing where he is going to live. He doesn't even know where he will sleep tonight, his first day there. God said, "Go ... Trust Me ... and I will give you the directions when you need them." We are sooo... proud of Jeremiah to step out in complete faith, knowing that he does not need to have every detail planned.
Many of my friends have asked, "How are you?" with Jeremiah leaving, assuming that I would be very sad (as most moms would be). But ... while I will definitely miss Jeremiah ... I am just so excited for all that the Lord will do in and through him. I am sooo... honored that the Lord would choose me ... just an ordinary mama ... to train up so many warriors for His army. Our whole family has done mission trips to Los Angeles and to New Orleans. Gregg has ministered in Mexico. Cassie has ministered in Haiti, Africa, and India. Jeremiah will be our first long-term missionary, to the Iraqi refugees in Jordan. Carissa has ministered in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Argentina. Lindsey has ministered in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Germany (and is preparing to leave next month for 6 months in Germany). I can hardly wait to see where the Lord will call the next 8 younger children to minister.
So, today as we are missing Jeremiah ... we also want to celebrate the amazing son ... brother ... and missionary that the Lord has given to our family. We love you Jeremiah!
Jeremiah ... ministering in New Orleans.
Jeremiah ... a fantastic brother.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Crazy Idea ... Must Respond TODAY ...
The Extreme Makeover Home Edition is looking for a family here in Northwest Washington, and I thought it would be fun to apply. The deadline is today (8th), but I thought I would throw the idea out to any of you that might like to also nominate us.
Here's what you need to do.
Send an email to : emhewashington@gmail.com
1. Stating who we are: Jim and Laurel D.
2. Why we are "deserving" of the makeover. (You get to come up with your own answer for this one.)
3. The names and ages of our children:
Elijah - 6
Rachel - 7
Josiah - 8
Sarah - 9
Hosanna - 11
Jacob - 12
Benjamin - 15
Joshua - 17
Carissa - 19
Lindsey - 19
Jeremiah - 21
Cassie - 22 (not living at home)
Gregg - 23
4. What our major home issues are. Some ideas:
Small bedrooms (that don't meet fire code) with 2-3 kids per bedroom.
One bedroom with no secondary exit (no window for fire escape).
2 1/2 bathrooms for very large family (1 of the bathrooms being VERY small)
Small Living Room
Older home that needs energy efficient windows and new furnace.
Just thought it was a fun and crazy idea for a fun and crazy family.
If you'd like to read about our Home Makeover on this blog ... just nominate us today.
Thanks!
Here's what you need to do.
Send an email to : emhewashington@gmail.com
1. Stating who we are: Jim and Laurel D.
2. Why we are "deserving" of the makeover. (You get to come up with your own answer for this one.)
3. The names and ages of our children:
Elijah - 6
Rachel - 7
Josiah - 8
Sarah - 9
Hosanna - 11
Jacob - 12
Benjamin - 15
Joshua - 17
Carissa - 19
Lindsey - 19
Jeremiah - 21
Cassie - 22 (not living at home)
Gregg - 23
4. What our major home issues are. Some ideas:
Small bedrooms (that don't meet fire code) with 2-3 kids per bedroom.
One bedroom with no secondary exit (no window for fire escape).
2 1/2 bathrooms for very large family (1 of the bathrooms being VERY small)
Small Living Room
Older home that needs energy efficient windows and new furnace.
Just thought it was a fun and crazy idea for a fun and crazy family.
If you'd like to read about our Home Makeover on this blog ... just nominate us today.
Thanks!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
A Modern Fairy Tale
There once lived a girl named Heidi.
She lived in the faraway state with her mama, her papa, her little sister, and her grandma and grandpa.
In the summer of 2007 ... Heidi was deep in thought.
Maybe I should move to a new town in a new state and meet new friends.
Heidi moved to Oregon.
When she arrived in town, she got a job at the Red Robin Restaurant.
There ... she met her new friend, Cassie.
Cassie had been very lonely after leaving her family in Washington, so she was very excited to have a new friend.
When Cassie drove home to visit, she hated doing the 9 hour drive (each way) by herself. So, she invited her new friend Heidi to come along for a weekend.
Heidi liked the taste of Washington Apples.
And ... she liked Cassie's Big Fat Greek Family.
She thought the little brothers were very cute.
Heidi and Cassie had a lot of fun together.
One day ... Cassie told Heidi about her big brother, who lived in a land far, far away.
When Cassie's big brother returned from his military service, Cassie was very excited to see him.
And ... Heidi was very excited to meet him.
Cassie invited Heidi to take the long drive home with her again.
Heidi thought Gregg was cute, too ...
... just like the little brothers.
Soon ... Heidi and Gregg were planning a trip to the faraway state of Southern California to meet the Papa and the Mama, the Little Sister, and the Grandma and Grandpa.
They went out to lunch with the family.
They spent time with friends.
They went to the beach.
Heidi's Papa enjoyed meeting Cassie's big brother, and took this very nice picture.
This story is still in process ... I'll keep you posted as new chapters are written.
She lived in the faraway state with her mama, her papa, her little sister, and her grandma and grandpa.
In the summer of 2007 ... Heidi was deep in thought.
Maybe I should move to a new town in a new state and meet new friends.
Heidi moved to Oregon.
When she arrived in town, she got a job at the Red Robin Restaurant.
There ... she met her new friend, Cassie.
Cassie had been very lonely after leaving her family in Washington, so she was very excited to have a new friend.
When Cassie drove home to visit, she hated doing the 9 hour drive (each way) by herself. So, she invited her new friend Heidi to come along for a weekend.
Heidi liked the taste of Washington Apples.
And ... she liked Cassie's Big Fat Greek Family.
She thought the little brothers were very cute.
Heidi and Cassie had a lot of fun together.
One day ... Cassie told Heidi about her big brother, who lived in a land far, far away.
When Cassie's big brother returned from his military service, Cassie was very excited to see him.
And ... Heidi was very excited to meet him.
Cassie invited Heidi to take the long drive home with her again.
Heidi thought Gregg was cute, too ...
... just like the little brothers.
Soon ... Heidi and Gregg were planning a trip to the faraway state of Southern California to meet the Papa and the Mama, the Little Sister, and the Grandma and Grandpa.
They went out to lunch with the family.
They spent time with friends.
They went to the beach.
Heidi's Papa enjoyed meeting Cassie's big brother, and took this very nice picture.
This story is still in process ... I'll keep you posted as new chapters are written.
What are YOU looking for?
Hello My Blogging Friends,
There are many reasons for writing blogs ... and many reasons for reading blogs. I have been processing for quite some time, the purpose of this blog, and wondering whether or not to expand my writing on this one blog or to create one or two different blogs. So, I need to hear your thoughts ...
Purpose #1 in starting this blog was to share our adoption journey with family, friends, and the adoption world. After bringing the children home, I decided to continue the blog, as a place to share our family's story ...
... with our young adult children spread around the world, it has become a great way for them to keep in touch with daily life at home.
... with many friends around the country (and also traveling the world), it became a fun way to keep in touch with them, also.
... with all of my new Blogging Friends, it became a way to share, encourage, support others walking the adoption walk, the large family walk, and/or the homeschooling walk ... a place to connect with like-minded friends around the world.
Now ... I am pondering ...
Some blogs I enjoy are just a family journal, such as this.
Some blogs I enjoy share parenting tips, large family tips, grocery shopping tips, and/or homeschooling tips.
Some blogs I enjoy go deeper into our spiritual journey ... sharing joys, challenges, scripture verses, etc...
My questions for you ...
#1 Why do YOU read this blog?
#2 Should I create 2 other blogs to share family tips and/or encouragement for our spiritual journey, or should I incorporate all 3 types of blogging into this one family blog? Possible blogs ...
Daily Life in Our Big Fat Greek Family
A Journey of Faith
#3 In what ways could I most encourage/support you on your life journey?
I look forward to hearing from you ...
Laurel
There are many reasons for writing blogs ... and many reasons for reading blogs. I have been processing for quite some time, the purpose of this blog, and wondering whether or not to expand my writing on this one blog or to create one or two different blogs. So, I need to hear your thoughts ...
Purpose #1 in starting this blog was to share our adoption journey with family, friends, and the adoption world. After bringing the children home, I decided to continue the blog, as a place to share our family's story ...
... with our young adult children spread around the world, it has become a great way for them to keep in touch with daily life at home.
... with many friends around the country (and also traveling the world), it became a fun way to keep in touch with them, also.
... with all of my new Blogging Friends, it became a way to share, encourage, support others walking the adoption walk, the large family walk, and/or the homeschooling walk ... a place to connect with like-minded friends around the world.
Now ... I am pondering ...
Some blogs I enjoy are just a family journal, such as this.
Some blogs I enjoy share parenting tips, large family tips, grocery shopping tips, and/or homeschooling tips.
Some blogs I enjoy go deeper into our spiritual journey ... sharing joys, challenges, scripture verses, etc...
My questions for you ...
#1 Why do YOU read this blog?
#2 Should I create 2 other blogs to share family tips and/or encouragement for our spiritual journey, or should I incorporate all 3 types of blogging into this one family blog? Possible blogs ...
Daily Life in Our Big Fat Greek Family
A Journey of Faith
#3 In what ways could I most encourage/support you on your life journey?
I look forward to hearing from you ...
Laurel
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Six Months ...
I can't believe it has been a full 6 months since we met our precious children.
6 months ... 1/2 a year ... 183 days ... 4,392 hours ...
... Some days it seems like just last month that we were in Africa.
... Other days it seems like the children have been with us for years.
6 months of ...
... Joy
... Challenges
... Smiles
... Laughter
... Tears
6 months of ...
... new experiences
... each of us seeing the world from a new perspective
... rejoicing in each of the "Firsts"
6 months of ...
... growth for every one of us:
... parents learning and growing
... young adults learning and growing
... teens learning and growing
... children learning and growing
... God stretching and teaching us daily
6 months of ...
... learning to "blend" our families (3 siblings + 10 siblings uniting into 1 family)
... some days our children seem well blended
... other days they pull back and seem to be one team against another
6 months of ... Learning ... Loving ... Growing as a Family ...
Thank you Jesus ... for each and every one of our 13 precious children.
Thank you for all of the hours, days, weeks, months, and years that they have each been a part of our family.
6 months ... 1/2 a year ... 183 days ... 4,392 hours ...
... Some days it seems like just last month that we were in Africa.
... Other days it seems like the children have been with us for years.
6 months of ...
... Joy
... Challenges
... Smiles
... Laughter
... Tears
6 months of ...
... new experiences
... each of us seeing the world from a new perspective
... rejoicing in each of the "Firsts"
6 months of ...
... growth for every one of us:
... parents learning and growing
... young adults learning and growing
... teens learning and growing
... children learning and growing
... God stretching and teaching us daily
6 months of ...
... learning to "blend" our families (3 siblings + 10 siblings uniting into 1 family)
... some days our children seem well blended
... other days they pull back and seem to be one team against another
6 months of ... Learning ... Loving ... Growing as a Family ...
Thank you Jesus ... for each and every one of our 13 precious children.
Thank you for all of the hours, days, weeks, months, and years that they have each been a part of our family.
Always Learning New Things
While visiting a friends' cabin at the Hood Canal, our new kids observed tides for the first time.
One evening I was standing on the beach with Jacob when I asked if he noticed where the water was, in contrast to how far out it had been during the day. I asked Jacob if he knew Why this had taken place.
Jacob's explanation ...
"In the day ... when the sun is out ... the land drinks all of the water."
Being the completely science-challenged-homeschooler that I am, I told him that that was not quite how it works, but that we would have to learn more about it later. Guess he just picked one of our science subjects for this year.
One evening I was standing on the beach with Jacob when I asked if he noticed where the water was, in contrast to how far out it had been during the day. I asked Jacob if he knew Why this had taken place.
Jacob's explanation ...
"In the day ... when the sun is out ... the land drinks all of the water."
Being the completely science-challenged-homeschooler that I am, I told him that that was not quite how it works, but that we would have to learn more about it later. Guess he just picked one of our science subjects for this year.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Vacation ...
Learning to Swim without a Life Jacket ...
Creek Walking ...
Water Skiing for the Very First Time ...
Playing "Snake Eyes" ...
Teaching Papa how to Play an African Rock Game ...
Chasing Bubbles ...
Learning about Sea Life ...
Riding the Ferry Boat home ...
Praising Jesus for ... Family ... Friends ... Fun Times ...
Creek Walking ...
Water Skiing for the Very First Time ...
Playing "Snake Eyes" ...
Teaching Papa how to Play an African Rock Game ...
Chasing Bubbles ...
Learning about Sea Life ...
Riding the Ferry Boat home ...
Praising Jesus for ... Family ... Friends ... Fun Times ...
Monday, August 4, 2008
Baptism
Our eldest son Gregg took a few years off from his walk with the Lord, as he followed some of the worldly temptations of army life. However, this past year, as a sniper in Baghdad, he drew closer to the Lord than ever before.
A week ago, we were more than excited when Gregg chose to rededicate his life and proclaim to the church, through baptism, that he IS a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ.
It was the first weekend using our new outside baptismal, and Gregg was baptized by Sean, our most awesome youth pastor, and by Papa.
A week ago, we were more than excited when Gregg chose to rededicate his life and proclaim to the church, through baptism, that he IS a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ.
It was the first weekend using our new outside baptismal, and Gregg was baptized by Sean, our most awesome youth pastor, and by Papa.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Love Thy Neighbor
A dear friend just sent me an email, with tips on how to "Love Thy Neighbor" ... the one that seems to be targeting us. I had to share her final thoughts ...
And if all else fails we can buy a large plot of land and have lots of homes built there for our own community of Jesus praising, homeschooling educatin', big family loving, adoption advocatin', multicultural celebratin'- peace, joy and harmony kind of neighborhood.
Thanks Sarah!
And if all else fails we can buy a large plot of land and have lots of homes built there for our own community of Jesus praising, homeschooling educatin', big family loving, adoption advocatin', multicultural celebratin'- peace, joy and harmony kind of neighborhood.
Thanks Sarah!
Photography Question ...
Hello to My Blogging Friends,
I have a question for all of you adoptive parents who have children with a darker shade of skin ...
Any tips on picture taking? I have a Nikon D70 SLR ... so it's a quality camera. But, I can't always get the best shots of their faces (too dark). I just bought an add-on flash (Nikon), so am hoping that will help. But, thought I would get tips.
Do you use a flash for outside shots, too. Even many of my outside pictures don't show their faces well.
Thanks much, for any tips you can give.
Laurel
I have a question for all of you adoptive parents who have children with a darker shade of skin ...
Any tips on picture taking? I have a Nikon D70 SLR ... so it's a quality camera. But, I can't always get the best shots of their faces (too dark). I just bought an add-on flash (Nikon), so am hoping that will help. But, thought I would get tips.
Do you use a flash for outside shots, too. Even many of my outside pictures don't show their faces well.
Thanks much, for any tips you can give.
Laurel
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Are we being targeted?
Last month, we received a letter for "The City" stating that they had received a complaint regarding our property. Supposedly, we had "vegetation growing over the public sidewalk which created a safety hazard". We were completely confused. Our lawn is kept quite short, and does not have any plants growing next to the side walk (no flowers, no shrubs, etc...). The only possible explanation would be a tree that is on the corner, actually across the sidewalk from our yard, that the city has maintained for the entire 6 years we have lived here. So, we phoned The City and explained our confusion. They sent someone out to "investigate", and they determined that they might need to "cut down the tree". Fine with us ... we never considered it "our tree" anyway (and, we actually think it's kind of ugly). But ... the tree really doesn't explain any type of safety hazard for the sidewalk. The City has never returned. The tree is still on the corner. And ... we never thought another thing of it.
Then ... we began getting the weekly Saturday night visits from our New Neighbor ... the one who does not believe it is "normal" for our children to be outside after 10:00 at night. (Read last week's post, if you haven't heard the story.) On the 4th Saturday of the regular visits, we were also visited by Mr. Policeman. Nice chat with Mr. Policeman ... we thought the issue was resolved ... and, we never thought another thing of it.
Today ... I was napping when one of the children woke me up to inform me that "someone from the police department is here". What?! It's only 3:00 in the afternoon. The kids are all having their quiet time, so no one is outside. What could possibly be wrong now? On the front doorstep, I found another nice police officer. This one was driving the Code Enforcement van. Oh dear! Mr. Policeman came to inform me that there had been an anonymous complaint registered about our family (no longer a surprise) ... we "leave our garbage can by the street 7 days per week and there is garbage strewn all the way down the side street". What!!!????
Mr. Policeman asked if this is true. I said, "No." and point to the upright garbage can, not overflowing, with not one little piece of paper or garbage in sight. I explained that our garbage used to be picked up in the alley, but for the last year or so it has been picked up in the street out front. I also explained that one day every two weeks we put out our recycle, but that we do not leave our recycle totes out the rest of the time. And, we NEVER have garbage littering the street.
Suddenly ... all 3 of the above situations became very clear. Might they be related? I politely explained to Mr. Policeman that we have lived here for 6 years and never had any complaints from the neighbors. I explained that we have now had 6 complaints in the course of a month or two. I explained that the "neighbor" that has made 4 of the complaints (Saturday nights) actually lives a block and a half away. Wouldn't you think that if there were really a problem, that in 6 years we would hear from the neighbors with property adjoining our property? Mr. Policeman agreed.
Then ... I explained to this nice Mr. Policeman that I am getting quite concerned. Our family has lived here for 6 years with no complaints. But, we had a major family change this spring ... we brought 3 African children into our home (and neighborhood). Could it be that we are being targeted? Mr. Policeman seemed quite interested in this "coincidence" and recommended that I document all of these situations. We do live in a very white town ... and I am very aware of other racist situations that have taken place with adopting families. But ... I so don't want to believe it.
Maybe ...
It's the fact that we have 13 children ... which is definitely not "normal".
It's the fact that we are the "odd" homeschooling family.
It's the fact that we are the only Greek family in a town dominated by Dutch families.
But ... maybe ... it's the fact that we just adopted 3 black children. Oh how I pray that this is not so.
I am NOT a worrier ... but now I have to wonder ...
... are we safe?
... are my children safe when they are home alone?
... will our house be safe while we are on vacation?
We will pray ....
Then ... we began getting the weekly Saturday night visits from our New Neighbor ... the one who does not believe it is "normal" for our children to be outside after 10:00 at night. (Read last week's post, if you haven't heard the story.) On the 4th Saturday of the regular visits, we were also visited by Mr. Policeman. Nice chat with Mr. Policeman ... we thought the issue was resolved ... and, we never thought another thing of it.
Today ... I was napping when one of the children woke me up to inform me that "someone from the police department is here". What?! It's only 3:00 in the afternoon. The kids are all having their quiet time, so no one is outside. What could possibly be wrong now? On the front doorstep, I found another nice police officer. This one was driving the Code Enforcement van. Oh dear! Mr. Policeman came to inform me that there had been an anonymous complaint registered about our family (no longer a surprise) ... we "leave our garbage can by the street 7 days per week and there is garbage strewn all the way down the side street". What!!!????
Mr. Policeman asked if this is true. I said, "No." and point to the upright garbage can, not overflowing, with not one little piece of paper or garbage in sight. I explained that our garbage used to be picked up in the alley, but for the last year or so it has been picked up in the street out front. I also explained that one day every two weeks we put out our recycle, but that we do not leave our recycle totes out the rest of the time. And, we NEVER have garbage littering the street.
Suddenly ... all 3 of the above situations became very clear. Might they be related? I politely explained to Mr. Policeman that we have lived here for 6 years and never had any complaints from the neighbors. I explained that we have now had 6 complaints in the course of a month or two. I explained that the "neighbor" that has made 4 of the complaints (Saturday nights) actually lives a block and a half away. Wouldn't you think that if there were really a problem, that in 6 years we would hear from the neighbors with property adjoining our property? Mr. Policeman agreed.
Then ... I explained to this nice Mr. Policeman that I am getting quite concerned. Our family has lived here for 6 years with no complaints. But, we had a major family change this spring ... we brought 3 African children into our home (and neighborhood). Could it be that we are being targeted? Mr. Policeman seemed quite interested in this "coincidence" and recommended that I document all of these situations. We do live in a very white town ... and I am very aware of other racist situations that have taken place with adopting families. But ... I so don't want to believe it.
Maybe ...
It's the fact that we have 13 children ... which is definitely not "normal".
It's the fact that we are the "odd" homeschooling family.
It's the fact that we are the only Greek family in a town dominated by Dutch families.
But ... maybe ... it's the fact that we just adopted 3 black children. Oh how I pray that this is not so.
I am NOT a worrier ... but now I have to wonder ...
... are we safe?
... are my children safe when they are home alone?
... will our house be safe while we are on vacation?
We will pray ....
A Record Breaking Berry Day
Today was Raspberry Day at our house ... with a few blueberries thrown in, too.
Many times, we have picked over 100 pounds of berries in a morning. And, we have often made 30-40 quarts of jam in a day. Usually, however, we pick the berries in the morning, freeze some that afternoon, and make jam over the course of the next couple of days. Or, we freeze our mashed berries and make jam in the middle of December (actually something that we do quite often).
Today, however ... we picked 106 pounds of raspberries and 37 pounds of blueberries this morning. AND ... we made 49 quarts of jam this afternoon and evening. We would have made more jam, but we ran out of jars (since we just made 60 quarts of strawberry jam last week). We froze some berries whole (to use as ice cream toppers) and mashed others ( to make jam after some of the jars are empty). And, we got all of the blueberries into freezer bags for baking (apple/blueberry pie is our favorite blueberry treat).
Lots of good berries this year.
Jacob is having fun!
Rachel is a great little berry picker.
Elijah is showing us how big this year's raspberries are. What I didn't realize until after downloading this pic is that he is also showing everyone his complete disregard for contemporary fashion. (Please don't send in the fashion police.)
I have absolutely no idea where he came up with the stocking cap, or why he would choose to wear it on a nice summer day. And, I think he has pulled this shirt out of the Goodwill pile several times ... how many brothers have handed it down for the past 10-15 years? (Yes ... I remember back before I had children ... oh so long ago ... when I would see dirty or "creatively" dressed children out in public and say, "I will never take my child anywhere looking like that.") If you happen to be one of the wonderful young adults who reads this blog, that does not yet have children, please don't say, "I will never ..." or I will send the fashion police to your house after you've had a few kids and kiddy fashion just doesn't really matter any more. This kid seriously cracks us up with his clothing choices ... too cute!
We like going to a farm that has many kinds of berries. Today's blueberries are right next to the raspberries.
Josh and Ben are reminiscing about the years that we owned our own blueberry farm ... and all of the blueberry picking fun that the kids had. (When I first looked at this pic, I thought, "Our plants were sure a lot taller." Then, I realized that my boys are now a lot taller.)
Hosanna and Sarah are pulling out any leaves or green berries. Don't see many green berries ... our kids have done a GREAT job at picking this year.
We almost need a longer kitchen counter.
These raspberries are HUGE!
Josh and Hosanna were my primary Jam Makers today ... but Ben stepped in to help quite a bit too. (I gave him a little break today, since he helped me make the 60 quarts of strawberry jam last week.)
Many times, we have picked over 100 pounds of berries in a morning. And, we have often made 30-40 quarts of jam in a day. Usually, however, we pick the berries in the morning, freeze some that afternoon, and make jam over the course of the next couple of days. Or, we freeze our mashed berries and make jam in the middle of December (actually something that we do quite often).
Today, however ... we picked 106 pounds of raspberries and 37 pounds of blueberries this morning. AND ... we made 49 quarts of jam this afternoon and evening. We would have made more jam, but we ran out of jars (since we just made 60 quarts of strawberry jam last week). We froze some berries whole (to use as ice cream toppers) and mashed others ( to make jam after some of the jars are empty). And, we got all of the blueberries into freezer bags for baking (apple/blueberry pie is our favorite blueberry treat).
Lots of good berries this year.
Jacob is having fun!
Rachel is a great little berry picker.
Elijah is showing us how big this year's raspberries are. What I didn't realize until after downloading this pic is that he is also showing everyone his complete disregard for contemporary fashion. (Please don't send in the fashion police.)
I have absolutely no idea where he came up with the stocking cap, or why he would choose to wear it on a nice summer day. And, I think he has pulled this shirt out of the Goodwill pile several times ... how many brothers have handed it down for the past 10-15 years? (Yes ... I remember back before I had children ... oh so long ago ... when I would see dirty or "creatively" dressed children out in public and say, "I will never take my child anywhere looking like that.") If you happen to be one of the wonderful young adults who reads this blog, that does not yet have children, please don't say, "I will never ..." or I will send the fashion police to your house after you've had a few kids and kiddy fashion just doesn't really matter any more. This kid seriously cracks us up with his clothing choices ... too cute!
We like going to a farm that has many kinds of berries. Today's blueberries are right next to the raspberries.
Josh and Ben are reminiscing about the years that we owned our own blueberry farm ... and all of the blueberry picking fun that the kids had. (When I first looked at this pic, I thought, "Our plants were sure a lot taller." Then, I realized that my boys are now a lot taller.)
Hosanna and Sarah are pulling out any leaves or green berries. Don't see many green berries ... our kids have done a GREAT job at picking this year.
We almost need a longer kitchen counter.
These raspberries are HUGE!
Josh and Hosanna were my primary Jam Makers today ... but Ben stepped in to help quite a bit too. (I gave him a little break today, since he helped me make the 60 quarts of strawberry jam last week.)
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