And Jada Makes 7...

Giving to Those Who Can't....

2012-01-27T13:16:00.001-06:00

I just want to give a shout-out for a VERY worthy cause - let's go beyond ourselves and reach out to bless others. The Sparrow Fund does just that and allows us to be a part - through their Etsy store - I have bought from them and their work is gorgeous. Their funds have been low in January and the women in Kenya are counting on these sales to provide for themselves and their families. I just want to spread the word - we can help beyond our borders and I love to do that when I can! (They also just launched a way for adoptive families to raise money for their adoptions and yes, that is also near and dear to my heart!!)

Apps with the Most-est

2012-01-26T19:56:00.000-06:00

I am here to share some of my favorite apps with you - after using my iPad for over a year now, and my iPhone for almost that long - there are just some apps you SHOULD NOT be without!!!

*Splashtop - the possibilities here are endless. This is an amazing little app. You download it to your phone or iPad and then also download a file to your computer from their website. THEN, wherever you are, you can log into your home computer, work computer, your boys' computers (hee,hee) from your iPhone or iPad. LOVE this tool - for things like needing to find something on your computer, troubleshooting when you are not there to do it physically, or even my favorite - when I am at work and have to log in to our computer that is running our Powerpoint display and it is up so high that it is a pain to log into without a ladder! Yep - this one is a keeper!!

*SpellBoard - this is a new one we just downloaded this week but I am LOVING it! The nightly spelling practice?? Well I have officially shared that responsibility with my iPad! This app did cost me $4.99 but it was worth every penny. You type the spelling words in each week (oh, and also record them - VERY easy) and then your student can practice by printing them or doing word searches. When they are ready, they can take quizzes and see how they do. The app keeps track of practices and quizzes so you can see how they are doing.

*Txtr - I get all sorts of books to review and read - and they come in all sorts of formats - a lot of which aren't very readable on a mobile device - without a lot of rigmarole. So Txtr is a wonderful app for me. You just download your file online to your Txtr account and then when you log into your app - your book is there waiting for you to read on your mobile. Only downside I have found on this app? You can't highlight - and yes, I DO LOVE to highlight!

*Jesus Calling - this is truly one of my favorite devotional books EVER so when it is out for my phone and I can read it on the go - well, enough said! It is worth every penny! And you can highlight, make notes AND post to Facebook when the spirit leads!

*Cozi - I can hardly tell you how much I love this app! Joe and I both have it on our phones - which is quite handy because you can sync your calendars AND grocery lists AND to-do lists. Is there really anything else it hasn't covered?!?! So I can add grocery items on my phone and they appear on Joe's as well. OR, you can type them online and they show up on your phones - I can't even express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Cozi inventing this one!!

*GiftPhone - found this one right before Christmas - you load it on and you can keep track of each person you need to buy for - what you are getting - when you get it - how much it cost - even if it's wrapped. AND all locked behind your secret password - I have to say - it's even better than Joe's spreadsheets!!

*GasBuddy - This was wonderful on our vacation but it's great for everyday use too - well, in a big city it might be better than in our small town with all of 3 gas stations! BUT - it tracks your location with GPS and then tells you the cheapest prices of gas all around you - even gives you directions to get there - saves you money and you don't even have to pay to get it!!

*Chirp! USA - since I know that each of you are as passionate about birds as I am - I can not resist sharing this app! Here it is folks - the best way to test your bird calls - they play you the songs and you choose the bird! HANDS DOWN - best time killer available - AND you are preventing alzheimer's while you are killing time - can't beat it!

* Taste of Home - I know, I can't cook - but I do love to find recipes for Joe to cook and this app is SUPERB!!! It's free - don't miss it - all of your favorite recipes from your favorite company!!

There you have it - - - until my next installment of "Apps you SHOULD not ever be stranded without"!!

Aaron Turns 14!

2012-01-24T06:48:00.000-06:00

Fourteen years ago - we were blessed with our third little man.

AND oh what a blessing he is!

From the beginnings of Aaron talking, we knew we were in for it - this boy is funny!! He has the most amazing fast quips and constantly keeps us laughing.

He is such a curious guy - loves to learn (ok, he won't admit that though) and he enjoys working on things until they are mastered!

He's a GO-GETTER!

Did I mention he is funny!?!?!?

Aaron has a sweet and caring spirit - he is great at putting others' needs ahead of his - that is a rare gift and he has it!

I am not sure if I have mentioned it - but this kid just cracks us up!!

He is a gift - a special gift from God! We praise God for you, Aaron.

Umm, yeah - he's always up for a joke or a laugh - have I mentioned that yet??

This is one of my favorite pictures of Aaron - it truly captures him -

Contemplative

Curious

and just a bit...

Mischievous!!

Aaron is an AMAZING brother to his two little sisters - he is the one that is sure to have time for a quick game with the girls and they know it!! He holds a special spot in each of their eyes!!

As our little man turns into a bigger man - we pray that God continues to use him. We pray for a young man that chooses God's best for him.

We love you bud and are SO blessed to have you in our family.

Happy Birthday!

These are a Few of My Favorite Things.....

2012-01-02T18:36:00.002-06:00

I got some very clever (and wonderful) Christmas gifts this year...

These are some of my very favorites....

Sink Strainer - And I daresay it will save many of our spoons too! Drains MUCH better than the one we had before and this one is quite pretty too!

I LOVE this one SO much - that I think I need more than one...one for home, one for work, one for the car - oh my!!! Fuzzy Fingers

I have this "thing" for Vera Bradley - yep, she is just classy!! So when my husband found a Bible cover in Vera - that was impressive!!

Yep, my Mom found this new scent that I just LOVE!!! Throw out the perfumes and just wear the lotion - yummmmm!!

I've hardly met a coffee I don't like - but WOW - this one is pretty amazing!!! Winter Carnival - and yes, it fits so nicely in my Keurig - another gift that I am just not sure how I survived without!!

Now if only I got a kick-back for my advertising - maybe when they get word of this post going viral.....

Simply Amazing!!

2011-12-27T20:05:00.001-06:00

What a difference two years makes - and if you think this is amazing - you ought to see her in action too!! This girl has made strides!!!

Christmas Day

2011-12-25T13:18:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!!Here is a glimpse of our day...

LOTS of picture-taking from the girl with the new camera!!

Ok - lots of picture-taking from ALL the girls with cameras!!

Patiently waiting for our turns!!

Cooper got a new toy too!

Aaron liked his Pizza Ranch gift card!

One of Mom's favorites - Chick-o-Stick - so the boys each got one in their stockings - they need to learn to love them like Mom!!

New Hats!!

Another new hat - don't worry - we'll take the tags off eventually!

Still more waiting our turn!!

Merry Christmas from All of us to All of you!!

Merry Christmas Greetings from Us!!

2011-12-17T18:39:00.000-06:00

We do often send our Christmas Greetings via email - this is nothing new for us - but this year, it has very special meaning as we plan to send a gift to friends of ours that are missionaries to China in place of the cost of postage, paper, printing, etc. So greetings to all of you electronically - and know that even though there is no handwritten greeting - it came from the heart!! We have had a blessed year - God is good and continues to amaze us! Our letter is in "bullet form" this year - it is short and sweet but kind of highlights our year!

Blessings to you - we treasure your friendship and are thankful you are in our lives!

Christmas Letter 2011

It's THAT time!!

2011-12-10T20:22:00.002-06:00

Our annual tradition - cut out cookies!!

You may see some at church tomorrow night....

Or at the library this week......

Some might just end up in our bellies too....

But wherever they appear - it was fun making them AND

Sharing them!!!!

Here's the Pile!! That was a lot of cookies!!!

Starfish Project

2011-11-28T13:53:00.005-06:00

When I shop for Christmas, I also like to support worthwhile causes when I can! So I was thrilled when I saw this fabulous jewelry line a couple of weekends ago. The Starfish Project is near and dear to me having two daughters born in China. This is a project that helps to support women in Asia that might have been in the sex trade - it teaches them a skill and gets them out of their bad situations. I LOVE that - because it is not an easy life for many women in Asia. I just highly encourage you to look at their beautiful jewelry - and if you'd like to order - just email myself or my consultant, Emily Moret. Here is her Facebook Page.

Don't miss their adorable children's items!! The jewelry is quality - I've seen it in person and LOVE it! Just a few of my favorites!!! SO if you are interested - just email me or Emily and place an order through my show - I am hoping to support a great cause AND Christmas shop too!! (There is no way to order online and it go toward the party so just make sure to email your order!! Thanks!)

joeb382 AT orangecitycomm DOT net or

emily DOT moret AT yahoo DOT com

Trimming the Girls....

2011-11-19T17:48:00.004-06:00

Oops, I mean the tree!!

Here is what we're up to tonight - perfect for an icy, wintry day!!!

Their dad taught them how to "fluff" branches - they are A-1 Branch Fluffers!!

Umm - yep, we even modeled the star!!

Adopted....

2011-11-14T10:59:00.002-06:00

We were getting ready for the Katelyn's Fund Service in Sioux Center yesterday and we all had to wear shirts that said, "Adopted". As Chloe was putting hers on, she said to me, "OH GREAT, now EVERYONE will know I am adopted!" It took me off guard - I forget that to these little ones, sometimes they have no idea that they look differently or that people can easily look and see that they are most definitely adopted. Don't I wish we all saw things that way!!!

Then she went on to tell me, "Mom, I am very lucky - I am adopted TWO times!!" And I looked at my little one in amazement, as I said, "Yes, you have been adopted twice - and how blessed you are!!" Praising God for adoption today and everyday!

Here is the video that was playing as we went up front - almost 300 of us - with our "Adopted" shirts on. Love it that we can all be adopted by our Great God!!!

Happy Halloween!!

2011-11-01T12:42:00.004-05:00

Yep - we went trick-or-treating in our pajamas - and carried pillowcases to collect our candy in - and then smelled candy all night long (as Chloe so aptly put it!!). They did not want me to wash the pillowcases yet - they smelled TOO good!!

And they got brand new jammies out of the deal!!! They loved it - however, Chloe also informed us that curlers in her hair were a bit embarrassing to be out in public with!!

See What's Glowing at our House!

2011-10-29T19:53:00.002-05:00

The kids chose their own designs this year.....

The boys chose this one......

Oops - that wasn't very nice!!!!

Chloe chose that one.....

And Jada chose this one.....

And Dad did ALL the hard work!!!

Picture Day

2011-10-14T10:26:00.001-05:00

Remember the horrible crash on our bike the day before Picture Day!?!?!?

Well here is the result - road rash and all -

Just shows how much fun she LOVES to have!!! :)

Jada's B's

2011-10-13T16:33:00.002-05:00

Just so proud of this girl - she is working SO hard!!!

The Pride of the Dutchmen

2011-09-30T13:39:00.006-05:00

I've always inwardly cringed at this - PRIDE OF THE DUTCHMEN Marching Band - hmm, don't we try to teach our children not to be so proud??? So this title has always wrankled me a bit (I hope I just made that word up - I like it!!!). This year, Caleb, has begun his first year in High School marching band beginning Aug. 1 with a daily dose of band camp. Yep, I will say it out loud - I couldn't believe it - Aug. 1?!?!?! I thought it seemed a bit much but we encouraged him to keep with it. Now, months later, all I can say is - I think a bit of that "pride" is seeping in to this Momma's bones! We have field band competitions almost every weekend from Sept. - Oct. and although they are long days for the kids - we, as parents, are thinking this is quite fun to behold!

I am proud of this band - and I think it's ok if they are bit "prideful" as well! They have worked hard, are scoring high, and look amazing on the field - NOT doing easy things, I may add as well. Thought I'd share some pics with you - HOPING video is to come!!

Getting Ready to Take the Field

Caleb is back row - almost to the 20 yd. line - He plays the Tenor Sax.

Yep, smallest kid, biggest sax!!

LOVE that black!!

Tossing the Flags Over....

Catching the flags...

Caleb is front middle.

There, more than you wanted to see, I am sure.

But no complaining or I'll put the other 100+ on there too!!!

Buddies

2011-09-26T18:01:00.001-05:00

I had a little photo opp - so I took it!!

2 Years Ago Today...

2011-09-15T06:42:00.000-05:00

It was Gotcha Day.

Red Couch Girl from Becky Bilby on Vimeo. (which is actually a week or so after Gotcha Day - but it was close and I love this sweet smile!!)

I wish I could even explain what was going through our minds on that day - but, to be honest, we will let that be the past. It humbles me when I even think about - how selfish I was, how I wasn't listening to anything that God was trying to show me, and how our lives could have been drastically different had we not decided to do, what we deemed "the hard thing" and bring Jada home with us. I was scared - not listening to God lead - and sure we had somehow made a very big mistake. I remember asking the families we travelled with - question after question - did Jada seem ok to them? Did they think something seemed "off"? They were so patient with me - assured me that it all would be ok. I wish I could say it was love at first sight - that there were no doubts in my mind. But that would be lying and I pray - that our openness might help someone else that finds themselves in the same situation. It wasn't what we were expecting - there was nothing easy about it - but, 2 years later, I am so proud of and so in love with this little girl that I can say - it was a great plan - a plan I am so glad we didn't miss out on. I am SO glad our fears did not rule our hearts - we knew what God had called us to - and I am so glad we followed. It has been a ride - but one I'm eternally glad we are on.

We love you little Jada Faith -

You are our visible reminder - "He Knows".

Our Middle Man is 15!

2011-09-09T06:59:00.000-05:00

I am convinced that every mom needs at least one son!! I wouldn't suggest THREE unless you know of a doctor that gives strong drugs!!! (Just kidding!!) Truly, these three keep me laughing!!

But today we celebrate that crazy guy in the middle - Mr. Caleb!

He turns 15 today!

This little man came into our lives a short 15 months after our first blessing and he's always been the "typical middle" child. I hate to say it, but it's true - he knows when to keep quiet and when to talk and when to lay low and stay out of trouble!

He's our blessing that we were told at 9 months old - might not make it out of the hospital alive. His little beating heart pulled through and he is our miracle!

He truly makes me smile! What a delightful guy!

He is quick-witted and yet one of the most tender guys around!

He has taken to both of his sisters from the first day we got them in China - the first one on the computer to see the blog updates while we were in China and then spent hours playing with them after we got home.

He adds a bit of crazy to our family - yep, we'd all admit that one!!

Caleb - you are a joy - we are SO blessed to have you as our son!

We pray you continue to grow in Christ and develop into the great young man that you already are!

We love you!

Green Thumbs

2011-09-06T22:08:00.002-05:00

Well we're growing HERBS, of course!!

Yes, Chloe's Botany study this year has us on our toes!! And growing herbs is one of our assignments - but this is good for Mom, right!?!?!

What Are We Up To???

2011-09-05T20:58:00.001-05:00

That is a very good question - and we are taking guesses...

First Week of TK

2011-08-31T20:32:00.003-05:00

Here is Jada - in her glory - she LOVES school - even gym (and that is where we differ!!!). She can't wait to go everyday - what a blessing! We are again blessed to have a teacher that is wonderful with Jada - God is SO good!

Will post a picture of Chloe and her teacher SOON!! :) (Her teacher was having a bad hair day today so we'll try tomorrow - too much humidity! Did I mention before that her teacher would rather it were winter EVERYDAY!?!?)

Praising....

2011-08-18T21:15:00.005-05:00

One year ago, we started Occupational Therapy with Jada - both through our school system (AEA) and through a private practice. When she was tested in the private therapy, she wasn't even able to complete many of the tasks for a 3 year old and so began her long year of many therapy visits each week. Today, our therapist said it was time to retest Jada and see where she is now. I had all I could do to sit there and not sob in that office - this little girl, that just two years ago was working on potty training, sleeping through the night, learning to walk and run - is now doing things that every other little 5 year old can do! She passed all of her three year goals, zoomed through the four, and then passed all but 2 of her five year goals - and one she didn't pass just because she was lining the pennies up on the lines meticulously (yes, she has a BIT of her OCD mom in her!!) instead of quickly getting them in the square shape. Yep, this tough mom that hardly ever sheds a tear, had all she could do to keep her composure. I am so proud of this little girl - she is determined that she can AND WILL do what all of the other kids are doing and she won't stop until she gets there!

We will only be seeing our OT once a month now and that may end soon if she continues on this path. I thank God daily - and I do mean daily - for each and every one of the people that work with our Jada. (She has a bunch - you should see her IEP meeting!!) Each of these dear therapists has taken our little one under his/her wing and truly helped her to fight for what is deep, deep inside and needs to come out. They are amazing people - they know their stuff and we feel God provided for us through them.

Jada is our fighter - she may have had us scared when we got her in China - but God had big plans for her AND for us! She is a joy - and she challenges me often - because I think - if Jada can do it - why can't I?? She has truly overcome SO much in her short little life - I can't wait to see what the next years bring!

That Time of Year

2011-08-07T17:06:00.002-05:00

Our first year to be introduced to Band Camp....let's just say, we survived! 6 trips back and forth to the high school each day - that began around 8 am some days and ended at 9 at night. Band camp runs almost 12 hrs. a day - with breaks for lunch and dinner for an entire week. They practice on their songs for marching competition, field work, and then learn their marching patterns - I am quite technical - sorry, Caleb, I'm sure, could fill you in further. Let's just say - from here on out - it's band, band, and more band until the middle of October. :)

Amidst sunburn, near heat stroke (well not quite - but he wanted to try to convince us - and yes, some days were almost 100 degrees), and long hours playing his sax - he did survive. And it's easier now - only 2 hrs. a day!

Wild Olive Tees

2011-07-31T18:53:00.002-05:00

I just think these Tees are the best!

And THIS is one of my favorites!!

And now it's being given away!!

OR - if you want to purchase one -the rewards are even greater - 100% of the proceeds go to help fund a heart surgery for an orphan in China - yep, NOTHING better!!

You Can't Mess This Up - BELIEVE ME!!

2011-07-30T19:18:00.004-05:00

So you all probably already knew about this - I'm always the last to know!!! But just in case....

let me share my quick and easy dessert we are enjoying tonight!

We will call it -

"Even Becky Can Bake This Dessert"

1 Box Angelfood Cake Mix (1 step)

1 Box Chocolate Cake Mix

1 Bag Mini Chocolate Chips

Combine the top three in a container to save for when you are ready for your dessert!

Ok, let's just say you are ready now....

Get out your coffee mug and spray it with cooking spray.

Add 1/3 Cup of the Mixture

and 3 Tablespoons Water and mix well.

Microwave for 90 seconds.

Flip out onto a plate!

That's it - it's that easy! (And it was a hit here!!)

Backyard Tour of Homes

2011-07-09T11:47:00.003-05:00

It is my annual backyard tour - no summer would be complete without it - so here you go - enjoy what we are enjoying right out in our own backyard!!

SO there you are - and you didn't have to get one mosquito bite!! (I won't tell you how many I inherited on this photo shoot!)

Our Trip in a Nutshell

2011-07-05T20:18:00.002-05:00

Now that we are home - it is time for a recap - our trip to Missouri.....

We saw the Great Flood - and sometimes it came right up to the road we were driving on....

We think they are READY!!

Mighty Flood Waters

Men Checking out the Flooding

In St. Joseph, MO

At another great park in St. Jo

Gotcha - you thought we were at the Parthenon, didn't you!?!?

Stopped in Kansas City at the Crown Center for some lunch!

After our work in Joplin, we went to Branson to take in the Dixie Stampede!

Yep - we were STUFFED - great meal and tons of fun!!

Our friends, Mike and Ann, took us to the Audubon Nature Center in Joplin - it was hot but it was fun!!

The Bilby Crew plus our dear friend, Ann

Yep, they ran all the way back to the van - they won!! (We didn't even try to beat them - it was WAY TOO HOT!!)

At the Falls in Joplin

Our Last Lunch with Mike and Ann before we left - we never got a picture of Mike - how did that happen!?!?

The Men were REALLY ready to eat after that hike!!

The Mermaids had fun at the hotel pool!

Peace World!!

With her floatie - she is unstoppable!!

We have hundreds more we could show you - but this will be all for now. We had a wonderful time - and loved seeing our dear friends!!

Our Joplin Adventure

2011-07-02T17:42:00.003-05:00

We decided for our vacation this summer to spend some time visiting our friends in Joplin AND using some of our free time to serve. So we picked one of the hottest days so far, almost 101 degrees, and went to work!

Salvaging things out of the basement....

The girls found a yo-yo - it was a hit!

Believe it or not - we DID work!

It is truly amazing to see these giant trees totally uprooted....

And to stand inside the house and look up and out....

A Little Work Break....

We decked out in floppy hats, sunscreen, work clothes, masks, and work gloves - we were READY!!

Not kidding when I say it was HOT - oh my!!! We went through LOTS of water and Gatorade!

The girls and I went to clean a house that a lady is moving into - her home was totally destroyed in the tornado - nothing left. We enjoyed cleaning in the air conditioning!! BUT when we got done, we headed over to see the men -

Jada by some of the rubble....

There are really no words for the destruction out here - and this is 6 weeks later. We are humbled at the power of God shown through a storm - humbled at the attitude of these people who have been left with nothing - and humbled at the willingness of people to give to help others around them.

Holy Mole!!!

2011-06-25T13:12:00.002-05:00

What we won't do for Dad's guac!!!

AND just in case you think it looks yummy too - here it is!! (Just call if you'd like two cilantro-tearing girls - there were only a FEW strings in ours!!)

How the Men Spend LOTS of Time

2011-06-25T07:52:00.002-05:00

They play THIS....

But of course we need THIS.

AND now THIS, from Father's Day!!
We just hope, at the end of the game, that they are all smiling AND talking to each other!

Bilby men tend to be a BIT competitive!!!

Skipping!!!!

2011-06-24T21:45:00.005-05:00

There are some things that I probably never did with my boys - like let them skip through Walmart!! BUT - none of my boys spent over a year working on skipping,

or hopping,

or balancing on one leg,

or jumping.....

She literally has been working on this for OVER A YEAR - and so when she broke into a skip - what did we do as good parents??? Well, grab the video camera of course! With tears running down our faces we watched Jada do something we weren't so sure she'd ever get figured out!! She has come such a long way and we are so proud of our little one that NEVER gives up!!

My favorite part?? When she stops to let the shopping cart pass!! :)

Birthday Girl

2011-06-21T11:53:00.001-05:00

Where does the time go!?!? Seven years old today - our First-Day-of-Summer Girl!!

We love you girlie - you are a sunshine!!!

New-to-Him Wheels!

2011-06-19T16:14:00.002-05:00

His New Wheels!
Yep, we searched here, Grandpa searched there, and Grandpa found it!

Low miles, great gas mileage, happy teen!

"Changing of the Keys"

He's paying for it and he's still smiling!! LOVE that kid!!

Taking the Fam for a Ride!
Yep, he may be doing more of this than he'd like, but hey, we don't want him to be bored!!

The Newest Bilby Biker Babe!

2011-06-18T18:20:00.006-05:00

Wow - Two posts in two days - I know, unheard of over here but it's been an exciting weekend!!

(I'll share more tomorrow on the other excitement!)

For today - we took Chloe out on the bike she just got for her birthday and started to work on riding without the training wheels.

Taking it All In...

Getting the Feel of it

Pedaling Hard!

We decided to try the big hill - here she is - NO HELP!!

Of course, the big hill means a lot of this!!

And then she was OFF!!! There was NO stopping her!

...And Poor Dad had to Keep Up!!

(And Jada never left her side!!)

Our Mermaid

2011-06-17T21:28:00.002-05:00

Yep - she eats this up!! It was our last day of lessons and the girl doesn't want it to end!

LOVE that smile!!! (Had to show you again up close!)

Kindermusik Celebration X 2

2011-05-23T19:14:00.009-05:00

Ready for class to start...

They played some fun songs on their recorders.

Dancing with Dad in the Circle Dance

Chloe and Mrs. Heidi

(This is a bittersweet photo - after many years, Chloe is graduated and done with Kindermusik - and we have just LOVED Mrs. Heidi!)

Jada's Class

Reading our Memories Book

Our "Jam" Session

Jada and Mrs. Heidi

Even More Tulip Pics

2011-05-21T21:18:00.006-05:00

Today I give you some pictures of Caleb and Aaron marching:

Caleb is smack in the middle of this picture - with the large sax.

Caleb again but from a distance.

Aaron plays the trombone - second from the end.

Love to hear them play!!

And one of the girls after three days of street scrubbing and today's VERY warm temps! I think they were finally DONE!

Tulip Take 3

2011-05-21T09:05:00.000-05:00

Tulip Festival Day 2

2011-05-20T20:13:00.003-05:00

Favorite Photo of the Day at the Festivities:

It is that Time Again!!

2011-05-19T15:39:00.003-05:00

Tulip Time!

Stay tuned for favorite pictures of the day!

Happy Birthday #5!

2011-05-13T07:53:00.000-05:00

I can't even tell you how proud I am of this little girl!

She has fought through a lot in her short little life - and she is a survivor!

I am so proud to be her momma!

Happy Birthday Sweet Jada - 5 years old!

We are so blessed to call you our daughter....

I thought it might be fun on this birthday to share some of her Preschool Graduation pictures.

Jada and her preschool buddy, Emilee.

Hugs with Big Sister!!

And her very special teacher, Mrs. Starkenburg!!

Trip to the Summit

2011-05-11T09:08:00.000-05:00

Nope, I haven't taken up mountain climbing - but I am going to learn more about the intricacies and blessings of adoption!!

So if you are going too - let me know - I'd love to meet up!!

Orphan Summit

Soccer Mania

2011-05-10T20:38:00.007-05:00

Yes - it is that time of year again - so I will give you some photos!

And yes, pro wrestling in the background!!

Mother Love

2011-05-03T06:21:00.000-05:00

I wish I had enough words to tell you about my mom. Nope - not enough room here but let me tell you - it is her birthday today and she deserves FAR more than I can afford to buy her as a gift.

My mom has been a cheerleader for me - she has encouraged and been there when I needed her.

She has been the same for my kids - all of my kids think Grandma is WAY up there in the books! (And she is - they are spot-on!) She has gone the extra mile for each of our kids - we see it all the time - I love her and my Dad for that.

But I have to tell you what sticks out to me the most - when we got Jada and doubted what we were doing - she never waivered - she told us to keep loving on her and then did what she could to be there to support us. She has reminded us over and over that when it is time - and Jada is ready - she WILL make progress.

I sent her an idea of a weighted blanket - she made it and shipped it out here - all 15 lbs of it!! I sent her little pizzas and oreos patterns that would help Jada practice buttoning and she had them out here in no time so Jada could begin working on them. All of those things would have been costly for us to purchase, so she just made them all for us and made sure Jada had them to use. My Dad and Mom came out to watch our kids for us and brought with them a large monitor so Jada could enjoy playing on the computer - even with limited vision.

The list truly goes on and on - even the day I called her to share what the doctor had said about Jada's diagnosis - her words were, "I don't believe it yet and I will keep praying."

She is a strong woman that stands behind her kids and her grandkids - and, most importantly, covers them all in prayer. I'm praising God for her today on her birthday - thank you Mom - I Love You!!

Sweet Sixteen!!

2011-04-30T10:03:00.010-05:00

Sixteen Years Ago Today.....We were blessed with our first son.

Talking with Grandpa

HOORAY for lunch time!!!

He didn't want his balloon to go anywhere without him!

His Silly Face for pictures - glad we got through that stage!!

Water Guns, Airsoft Guns - yep, we tried to discourage it and failed!!

What a sweet, sweet boy!!

And crazy too!!!

We are indeed so blessed by this gift from God!

Micah - you have such an amazing spirit and we are so grateful for your tender heart. We continue to pray that God will lead you and you will be open to Him. We are so proud of you and we love you TONS!!

Happy Birthday to our amazing son!

BIG Field Trip!

2011-04-28T20:55:00.011-05:00

I was so pleased to be able to go along on Jada's field trip to the Butterfly House. I had contemplated not going, as things were quite crazy at home, until little Jada looked and me and said, "No Mom, You Said You GOING!!" I guess I did tell her that - better carry through. :) And I was so glad I did! Here is some of our fun!

All the butterflies eating!

Some Buddies!

Even the aquariums were so much fun!!

The Whole Class!!!

After lunch fun on the playground!

Someday I'll bore you with some of my hundreds of butterfly and fish pictures - but for now - this will suffice to show you what a fun day we had. And now Mom is exhausted - must be time for bed!

Oh MY!!!

2011-04-28T07:34:00.000-05:00

This brings back a ton of memories - it was just yesterday, wasn't it!?!?!?

Sweet Sisters

2011-04-26T08:39:00.000-05:00

Sunday Snapshot - Easter

2011-04-24T20:52:00.002-05:00

It's always a treat to take part in a Sunday Snapshot Blog Post!So today you get our Easter Egg Hunt - now this was our outdoor one that we did just with the girls. (Don't worry, the boys didn't miss out - we did an indoor one with them later - it's a brain taxing one - it's good for them!!)

Look What I Found!

Jada's Counting Her Finds

Our Treasures!!

Sisterly Love!

Chloe

Jada Bug in the Tree

Here's our group photo - I'd be in BIG trouble if I didn't include one of these - the Grandma's would get me for sure!!!

Eggs Are Ready

2011-04-23T21:38:00.004-05:00

So after asking every 10 minutes from the minute we boiled the eggs if it was time to dye them yet - I finally gave in right before dinner! NOT one of my all-time favorite past times - it is a complete disaster to me to have 12 cups with stain-able dyes, numerous children, eggs that will crack if not handled gently, and splattering stainable liquid every time an egg drops in yet another cup. Oh well - we survived and the girls LOVED it. See?? I really am overcoming my OCD. :) I even did it alone this year as Joe was quite busy today!

One Less

2011-04-12T13:09:00.003-05:00

Gotcha Day!

2011-04-07T09:21:00.002-05:00

It is almost impossible for me to think that only six short years ago we were given an amazing gift - our daughter, Chloe. She is a joy - she makes us laugh, she keeps ALL of us on our toes, and she loves deeply! She has a tender heart for God and for her little sister and we love to see that too. We are blessed by you Chloe, and are SO glad God gave you to our family!

(The top picture was taken when Chloe was almost 2 - just one of my favorites!! Bottom one was taken this past Christmas.)

Cousins

2011-04-05T21:49:00.006-05:00

We had such a fun weekend seeing our cousins that we don't get to see very often! Next time we need to make it closer than our last visit - that is for sure!!

Two Years Ago Today.....

2011-03-30T22:06:00.004-05:00

We saw our Jada's face for the very first time.

That is one day we will never forget - a day we begged God for wisdom, as we had such a short time to decide if this dear one would be our next daughter.

And yes, 2 years later, we are still praising God He showed us YES!!

Jada Faith - you are a blessing!

Haiti Trip

2011-03-23T13:54:00.002-05:00

Our oldest son, Micah, will be taking a short term missions trip to Haiti this summer. He is excited to go and we are already praying that God works in him and uses him mightily while he is there. We covet your prayers with us, and, if you felt so led, you can also contribute financially as well. He has worked hard to help finance this trip, but there are still funds needed to get him there! I am attaching his support letter in case you would be interested.

ANOTHER way you could help him is through my Scentsy business. I have set up a fundraiser that is called - Micah- Haiti Missions Trip off of my site - if you click on that fundraiser, all of the profits will go toward his trip! (Just make sure to click on "Ship directly to Me" when checking out so that your order goes to your house and not ours!!) If you have wanted to try Scentsy or need more product, this is a great way to do it! You are supporting missions at the same time!

Thanks so much for caring for our family - we are truly blessed!

support letter

Deep Talks

2011-03-22T13:11:00.005-05:00

I knew it would come - no matter how much you read about how to talk to your children about adoption, it doesn't make it any easier. The sad reality is always hovering there and it can be a tough thing. So here was our conversation yesterday:

Chloe: Mom, how many relatives do I have in my orphanage in China?

Me: Well, I don't think you have any relatives there since none of those children would be actually related to you.

Chloe: Oh, do you think there were 100 kids there with me?

Me: Yes, Chloe there were at least 100 other kids there with you.

Chloe: That is SO sad, Mom, all those kids and their first moms and dads can't take care of them.

Me: I agree, it is very sad. We don't know why every time, but I do agree, for some children, their moms and dads just can not take care of them, so they leave them at an orphanage hoping that someone else that can take care of them will find them.

Chloe: That's why you have me, right?

Me: Well, we aren't sure, but that could be the reason. You could be right.

Chloe: I know I'm right, Mom. My first Mom and Dad could not take care of me so they took me to the orphanage and they KNEW you'd find me.

Me: ******** (That was my stunned silence.) I love that idea, Chloe. And I am so glad that they allowed us to take you to live with us. God has a good plan!

Chloe: Me too, because they knew I'd need glasses and you'd have to buy them for me.

Me: Yes - I am glad we can buy you glasses and take care of you. We love having you for our daughter. But I'm also glad God gave you to us for another reason.

Chloe: Why is that?

Me: Because many people in China do not know about God and I am so glad God brought you here so you could learn about Him.

Chloe: (Imagine this, if you can, in her best almost-seven-year-old -adult -voice) Mom, I am SO glad I learned about God. I just CAN NOT imagine my life without Him.

She makes me smile......

Sunday Snapshot

2011-03-20T07:51:00.000-05:00

Sunday Snapshot...

I think one of my favorite things is to see my girls interact.

I love it that even though Jada has very little language, Chloe knows exactly what she wants and is saying.

I love it that Chloe enjoys showing Jada the ropes and rarely tires of teaching her new things.

I love the bond these two have formed over the last year and a half.

God is indeed GOOD!

Baking....

2011-03-19T16:29:00.005-05:00

I know, you are wondering what I'm up today. (ME too, to be honest!)

But I did accomplish my friendship bread (you see, last week my Mom finished it up for me, yep, I mushed and she did all the hard work!). But today I did it myself. I do take a small amount of pride in that - I mean - after all of my kitchen fiasco's I am almost frightened to step in that linoleum-floored room. (I think Joe gets scared too - he watches me pretty close and asks LOTS of questions). But here it is - my pride and joy!

I branched out this time - yes, take a deep breath! I added ALMOND flavoring instead of vanilla - STOP LAUGHING - I was worried about that minor change but Joe said I'd be ok. And if you want alternative recipes, THIS is a great spot!! SO now the grand prize - I have three bags of starter to share!! (That's just the kind of person I am - always willing to share what I have!!) So don't be shy - speak up, oh, the only glitch is that you must be local - I just can not subject myself to standing in the post office and explaining that the contents of my package are liquid, fragile and yes, maybe even potentially hazardous!!

God Knows

2011-03-14T13:22:00.003-05:00

Well, we got back the results of the EEG - it showed nothing abnormal.

We got back the results of the MRI - it showed nothing abnormal.

We sit back and say, "Praise God!"

But let's be honest - we sit back and say, "So why the learning problems then??"

We, for just a brief moment, wondered, "God, why won't you show us anything more? We want to help to help this little one and we are at a loss."

And then, as Joe and I were IM'ing each other - we both typed - at the same time -

But this is how God has worked from the beginning with us and with our questions about Jada.

He has very clearly shown us over and over - even through her name,

Jada - Hebrew for "God Knows".

He does know - we do not - and we trust in that.

We may never know anymore than we do right now.

And we can honestly say we are ok with that.

God knows!

Don't Move a Muscle!

2011-03-08T12:30:00.004-06:00

Today I woke up with quite a bit of apprehension. Jada had an MRI scheduled for today. Now normally that would not bother me - but I was a tad bit nervous for this one. We had asked if we could do the MRI here in our town instead of driving back to Sioux Falls like we did twice a couple of weeks ago. It was fine to have it here in our town, but we were told they do not do anesthesia here with young children, so they were quite hesitant to say yes. I told the scheduler, I told our doctor, I told the MRI tech the same story - I can not explain it - but she has sat through numbing of her eyes, a catheterization, an EEG, drawing tons of blood for her genetic testing, you name it - she doesn't move a muscle. Now, as her mom, I am not entirely sure that's a good thing - but that is how she is. It is almost as if this little one knows - if I just sit still - it will soon be over. They ALL weren't sure - I don't blame them, I mean, really, you never know what a four year old will pull at the last moment!!! BUT they agreed, they said they'd try it.

We showed up and I told Jada it would be a BIG bed and they would be taking pictures of her head. I tried it to warn her it would be VERY noisy (for Jada, that is a big deal, she does NOT like loud noises at all!!). They took her in and that is where I nearly lost it. As they put her little ear plugs in, took her away from us, laid her in that big bed and then put the plastic form around her head, my eyes filled with tears. I know it is best for her - she needs all of this testing to rule out everything and move forward, but at that moment, I thought - maybe we just needed to have her "put out" for it. How scared she must be! It broke my heart - I wanted to go in with her, hold her tightly and promise her everything would be ok. But I obeyed and went to stand behind the window and watch. I will be eternally grateful, however, for the dear MRI tech, that held her hand the whole time and did not leave her side - she talked to her and reassured her and kept checking in on her. They told her to close her eyes and not to open them and, amazingly enough, Jada did JUST THAT. The tech that ran the computer told us that there was hardly even a vibration in her pictures - which means she really never did open her eyes or even move. She just didn't move a muscle. She told us some adults can't even provide that clear of a reading - because even opening your eyes can cause a vibration.

I was so proud of her. I was scared deep down that even though she is wonderful in doctor's offices that she might "flip out" a bit around that huge machine. But no, true to Jada-form, she did what she needed to do and came out smiling. My amazement and love deepens for this little girl everyday. She has been through so much, and may have to go through so much more, but she never flinches. She chose her prize, a Beanie Walrus, with pride and kissed it all the way home!

Hotels and Doctors!

2011-03-05T15:59:00.005-06:00

We had to take Jada in for a sleep-deprived EEG last week and we KNEW we'd lose her with an hour and a half drive that morning after very little sleep the night before, so we spent the night. Which was quite comical as we STILL almost had her doze off on just the short ride to the hospital from our hotel! :) But we made it and she was a trooper - we are so glad she is so compliant for doctors - this little gal sees quite a few!

But we realized that this was her first hotel stay since being in China! And she LOVED it - cold pool and all!!

Oh yes, and here is what we found when we got there!

Yep, that's us - we are QUITE SPECIAL!!! :) You can take guesses at what was inside!

We Discovered Bandanas

2011-02-27T16:45:00.002-06:00

And we won't take them off!!!

Those girls make me smile!!

It's You and Me, God - oh yes, and Jada AND Chloe!

2011-02-23T09:50:00.004-06:00

There are certain things that God knows I struggle with - one of those is waking up early. Case in point - yesterday we headed to our doctor appt. almost 2 hrs. away and we had to be there by 8 am - yep, you get the picture. It was EARLY for me. I know some people enjoy that, but I do not. I try to be kind at least, but you aren't going to get any deep conversation - Chloe tried, just ask Joe - it didn't work too well. Nope, not until that coffee has gone to my toes and my eyes can stay open without wishing they were still closing - THEN, I become who you know on a day-to-day basis! SO, getting up early to read the Bible - I think God knows my heart - it just doesn't work the best for me. God and I have discussed this - if He calls me to it - I will give it all I've got, but until then......I sleep! So then one must find another time to find that time alone with God - but, as many moms know, that can be a challenge. There is only one of me - but with 5 kids - they take every ounce of me - time included. I know that I need to be in the Word daily though - that is what keeps me going - so I make time everyday to spend time alone with Him.

The other day, the girls were watching TV, and I thought - this is it - this is my 30 min. - here I go. I quietly snuck into my bedroom - I mean, I was quiet - I don't even think the dog heard me. I opened my Bible and my new study book - and I smiled - yep Lord, I did it! But I hadn't even finished one paragraph when I heard feet. Now really, Moms help me here - why is the room no longer fun when Mom leaves?? It's true - you know what I'm talking about - it was all ok until Mom disappeared and then it isn't any fun anymore and so off they go to find Mom. And that is just what happened!

I looked up and Jada was attempting to crawl up onto our bed. I made the "shh" sign to her - I was ok if she wanted to join me, but it had to be quiet. I guess I should have told her to stop wiggling too - my Bible now has lines that are not as straight as I'd like (that's a whole different post!!) due to her inability to sit still! But she sat there for a bit and then disappeared. When she came back she had her notebook and a pencil and came back up by me. She never took her eyes off of me - when I wrote, she wrote. When I read, she pretended to read. When I moved my hand, she moved her hand. (I know, I was getting a lot out of my reading, wasn't I!!??!) It wasn't very long thereafter that Chloe appeared and sat down by me as well. Neither made a peep - Chloe was reading to herself and Jada was continuing to draw in her notebook. I was tempted to think - OH MY WORD - I can not even get 10 min. alone - but I stopped - I really did -

I stopped and thanked God for two little girls that love their momma! And I hope they remember seeing Mom read her Bible often. I am glad I can show them how important it is to me - even with two little girls trying to distract me!

How Can I Keep From Singing?

2011-02-17T10:31:00.005-06:00

I am not a very good gift-giver. I'll admit that right up front. I have thought it through MANY times and I can't put my finger on it, but as close as I can figure - I think I am just too practical. I want to surprise people and give them something they'll love, but practicality always wins out! Take Joe on the other hand - the guy is the master of gift giving - he starts his spreadsheet in May and plans out what he is going to give and yes, he saves those spreadsheets - he has them from years past just to keep track! And he's so great at coming up with ideas - I mean, really, THIS will go down in infamy!!!

So this year, for Christmas, I really tried hard NOT to be practical. Ok, the upside down map that Joe asked for - that was probably practical, but the tickets for tonight's big show in Sioux Falls - not practical!! And boy was he surprised! I made a puzzle he had to put together, yep, that's the other problem with Joe - you just CAN NOT surprise that man - he always figures it out. SO as he's doing his puzzle - he is just clueless. He gets it done - and he's STILL clueless because I only listed date, time, and place - not the performer! But really, he lives and breathes the music of this man, I thought he'd know he was coming and the exact date and time!! But no, and then when I told him - yep, he was a little teary! I LOVED that - I surprised him - and I was NOT practical.

(I know, patting myself on the back here - but after 18 years, I think I deserve one pat!!)

And, I needed to post this today in case Chris was reading - I don't want to offend him at all, but I really won't be watching him so much tonight - nope, my eyes will be on my husband - he'll be WAY more fun to watch!!

O the Deep, Deep Love

2011-02-14T13:09:00.006-06:00

The questions I get asked over and over are, "So how is Jada doing? AND Are you seeing progress?" And, as tough as it is to put down on paper (or a computer screen!!), I am going to try! On a good day I will respond, "She is doing great!!" But what I really mean is - she is BY FAR, not the same sullen little girl we brought home a year and a half ago. This little gal has a will - oh man, there are some days we wish she was still sullen - oh, just kidding - although she does want to be boss and that creates a bit of friction for Dad and Mom to deal with - we love to see that there is a little spirit in there that cares. That is not what we saw at first at all - you could do almost anything to her and she had absolutely no spirit to fight. She is also not quiet anymore - and yes, maybe even on some days I realize I didn't enjoy those quiet days enough!!! This little one has LOTS to say and even though you may not understand it all - there are no more quiet car rides and no more playing silently with toys. If she is not talking to Chloe or the boys, she is sitting beside me (wherever I happen to be) and talking my ear off - in her own Jada-way! She has come SO far.

However, on one of my down days, I would answer your original question with tears in my eyes because I want so much more for my little one. She will be 5 this May and really, often, we see more like a 2 or 3 year old in age. She is SO behind - both developmentally and academically - we have been asked to think of having her repeat Preschool, she is still seeing sometimes 5-6 therapists a week, others outside of our family would be hard pressed to understand her speech, she still has muscles that are not able to function like they should - it all breaks a mamma's heart. But I think what really matters here is not where Jada is but where I am.

I hate to admit it - but I am going to - I pride myself on being honest and transparent - so here goes. I was not ok with this whole thing a year ago. I felt like this was really a raw deal. I mean, really, we went out on a HUGE limb - both financially and in faith - to bring Jada home. She was #5 for us - we were plenty busy juggling homeschooling, church, jobs, LIFE, and we really did not need another child. But we truly felt God's call to bring another one home and so we stepped out. We feared from the beginning with her eye condition, but when we got to China, I was even more scared at what I saw and yes, angry. There were things I saw in Jada that honestly frightened me. She seemed almost mute and she could hardly walk without falling down - she was so unsteady and had no muscle tone. She looked like a little girl with a body - but no soul - she seemed so empty it was eerie. But I kept going back to the reason we were there -we were called - there was no doubt in my mind. However, was I bucking the whole way?? Yep, I begged God to change His mind, to remove that call - that this was TOO much for me. But He did not. I remember the morning we had to take all of our money - and give it to the orphanage as a "donation" for this little girl that I was sure God had somehow mistakenly closed His eyes for a few minutes and we had somehow been given the wrong one. I just could not see a big plan and all I could humanly see was how much work this was going to be and how unfair it all seemed. WOW - I look back and read those words

and what really strikes me is how much work God had to do to in me. Those days in China were a whirlwind in my mind. Joe and I didn't talk much. I was battling that dumb blood clot

that kept me from going anywhere without hobbling and in much pain, and we were both scared to death. This little girl - with all of her problems - seemed overwhelming to both of us. I remember coming out of the bathroom the morning we had to take all of that money and give it away in order to keep this dear little one. Joe was sitting on the floor crying and I came upon him and started crying myself. It was SO much money for this precious little soul - this imperfect little soul (in my eyes) and I was sad because it all seemed so unfair - the whole situation seemed unfair - but my wise husband looked up at me, tears running down his cheeks, and said, "He paid SO much more for us - and we aren't perfect either." Yep - that about summed it up. We would give away thousands of dollars for one that didn't "measure up" in the eyes of the government but who was I to judge - I am FAR from perfect myself - I am sure God just shakes His head at me sometimes and thinks "we have so far to go" - and we do.

But a year and a half later - I STILL have SO far to go - I really do. But I have also learned SO much. And I am going to say this out loud now - I would do it again tomorrow. I truly would. The WHOLE thing - I would go out a limb, I would take a child that had unique needs, and I would go and bring them home. I would do all of it knowing that when we got home we would

have to see doctor after doctor, therapist after therapist, and worry and wonder and not know what our future held for this dear little one. And I would do it even if God never asked me to - because I have learned so much and my heart is truly being changed. I LOVE this little Jada. I see a totally different little girl when I look at her now and I believe it is all because someone dared to love her. We may not know what is wrong with her mentally or developmentally - and we may never know. But what I do know is that I can pour love into her little life and give her something she never had before. I can be her MOM.

I say all of this today because, it being Valentine's Day, I was thinking of love. It is easy to love - really, we can all do it. But sometimes we get tested a bit. Just a little bit of "how easy is it to love if things aren't A-Ok?" testing - you know what I mean?? A year and a half ago, I sat and wondered how I could love - I remember thinking it - I still hang my head in shame. And now I don't doubt it for a minute - I love every quirky thing about this dear little one. I have been shown over and over how there was no "mistake" - she is exactly HOW God wanted her to be and she is exactly WHERE He wanted her to be. And I wouldn't have her any other place......

Livestock Ramblings....

2011-02-08T10:29:00.003-06:00

We are always looking for ways to show our kids that God is at work. So, when we started our adoption of Chloe, I heard a speaker share how her family said that God owns the cattle on a thousand hills - so whenever they got a grant or a sum of money they told their kids, "God sold another cow." We LOVED that and I came right home and shared with our kids that that would be how we would watch God provide for us. And we did. Every time we received a grant, we'd say, "God sold another cow!" We loved it - it was a tangible way to show His constant care for us.

When we began our adoption to Jada, and stepped out again in faith financially, our kids said, "Well, God just has to sell a lot of cows!" And that is just what He did for us - cow after cow, we made our way to China and brought Jada home. That isn't to say he provided every penny the way we thought He would - some of it we received by taking a second mortgage (right or wrong financially - we felt it was the way God was providing for us since that was our last option before we traveled).

Now that we are home with both girls - AND I felt God leading me to quit my job at the library (for a number of reasons - some good, some bad - I am still glad to be home) we are tighter than ever financially. Our stepping out in faith was good for us, and still continues to be - God keeps us right on the edge to watch Him provide. (I hope this doesn't sound like complaining - nope, I see right where God has us and I am just grateful that He provides for us enough to pay the bills each month!) So, a few weeks ago we get a call from a meat locker near here and the gal shares with us that someone purchased a portion of a cow for us and how would we like it processed?? Can you just see how great God is??? Once again, we had to smile - He provided a COW for us to show us He's still watching out and providing for us!! I love that - I wanted to share with everyone how God will NOT let you flounder on your own when you follow Him. I think the poor gal on the other end of the line thought I had lost it - I said a couple of times, "A Cow?? How awesome is that??" Yep, the cow is home - in our freezer and we feel so blessed. It was an anonymous gift - we can't even appropriately say thank you - but that is just how God likes to do it sometimes. I know, some are shaking their heads and saying, "Becky, it's a cow - really!!" But God just does not drop cows on you everyday and to us it was a great big hug from Him!

Happy 13!!

2011-01-24T10:41:00.003-06:00

We love to give Aaron a hard time - his day was a day of great drama 13 years ago!!

Not only did he decide to flip breech at 39 weeks, the doctors thought it would be fun to try to turn him back around AND THEN have Dad hold his head down in the birth canal to try to induce while he was still headed in the right direction. BUT, Aaron had other plans - as soon as Dad let go of his little head, he flipped right back around again and WOULD NOT make an appearance. Yep, he was my C-section - and we remind him often how he did not want to come into our world!! BUT we are so glad the doctors convinced him - he is a SPECIAL gift - our blessing that was not planned but we are SO glad God had other plans!!

We love you big guy - and are SO glad you decided to come out and live with us!!! (Yep, Mom is especially grateful for that - not sure she'd want to carry you thirteen years!!)

Snow Day!!

2011-01-11T15:10:00.007-06:00

We are tough homeschoolers over here - we usually don't take "snow days" like the schools do - but we did make some time today for "snow fun"!! I wanted to share these great ideas as they are not mine and you might like to use them as well!

First we started our Snow Flake Cocoa and it simmered for 2 and a half hours:

Then we made our Snowflakes to eat!!

Even the boys thought we were quite culinary!

18 Years Ago Today

2010-12-29T09:22:00.003-06:00

18 years ago on an icy night - we tied the knot! And 18 years from that night - I am STILL glad we did! We had no idea what a ride we'd be in for - but I would rather be on it with this wonderful man than anyone else!! God's plan is good!

The Citrus Sisters

2010-12-22T21:14:00.001-06:00

There really are NO words for this:

Last Day of Kindermusik for Another Semester

2010-12-20T20:40:00.003-06:00

Both girls had Kindermusik parties today - we are, sadly, done for another semester. But hang on until January when we start again!!! :)

Jada LOVES the parachute!!

Our resident Dulcimer expert!

Yes, that is SNOW falling on Jada!!

Jam Session!

Merry Christmas 2010!!

2010-12-18T20:21:00.002-06:00

Our annual family Christmas letter - for those that did not get it via email - enjoy!!
Christmas Letter 2010Good

Makes me Smile!!

2010-11-24T14:34:00.000-06:00

Once in a great while - I do enjoy paybacks!!!

Fall Fun

2010-11-06T18:31:00.002-05:00

What is better than a warm Fall day!?!?!?

The girls had a ton of fun!!

Changed Us, That's for Sure!

2010-11-02T21:45:00.001-05:00

Creation Groans from Christian Alliance for Orphans on Vimeo.

You've Come a Long Way, Baby!

2010-10-27T15:57:00.004-05:00

When Jada brought this home today - I just had to smile.

I am going to be bluntly honest here - there were days when I was not sure if Preschool would even work - there are just some things that do not seem to "stick" with Jada and her learning - she knows things one day and then they are gone the next - I have never seen that before with children and so it can be hard to know how to teach with that.

But we are seeing things in her that I honestly don't know if I ever thought we would. She is becoming quite the humorist - ok, most days I don't like it when she tells me, "No YOU, BABY!!" but hey, she is trying to be funny - and trying to communicate - and while I want to tell her, "We don't call people Baby," I refrain from saying it EVERY time because it is progress. We still struggle to understand every word she says - but we are coming along - we can understand SO much more now and some new words are coming all the time.

What a difference a year makes - so this proud momma had to brag a bit on her aspiring artist - I am not kidding - even the circles are a BIG DEAL here!!

To My Kids....

2010-10-10T22:15:00.001-05:00

I LOVE this song - I pray this for each of my kids -

Gotcha Day

2010-09-15T05:36:00.001-05:00

A Year Ago Today...

Gotcha Day from Becky Bilby on Vimeo.

Our lives were changed forever but so were our hearts. God gave us a blessing - as I've been told a few times - a special one - one that God calls some to be blessed with. She is a blessing - over and over. We Love you Jada!! We are glad you are OURS!!

Sensory Processing DVD

2010-09-14T19:11:00.003-05:00

I am always looking for something new having to do with Sensory Processing issues. I was so excited when I saw this new instructional DVD by Dr. Karyn Purvis:

A Sensory World: Making Sense of Sensory Disorders

You can also read more about it on the Empowered to Connect website.

It did not disappoint - as my husband and I sat and watched this and saw our Jada over and over - we were so glad for the wealth of insight and ideas that Purvis brings to this arena. WELL worth your time and money - I will gladly share mine, but guess you'd have to be in my neck-of-the-woods!!

Our 14 Year Old

2010-09-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

14 years ago, we were totally blessed by a little man that stole our hearts from day one! He has continued to steal our hearts....

Our Caleb is an amazing young man that is generous, caring and tender. We praise God for him and what he brings to our family! We love you, Caleb - we pray you continue to become the man God has planned for you.

First Day of Preschool

2010-09-07T15:35:00.003-05:00

It arrived - the first day of preschool - and since this is my first EVER to go to school - it about killed me!! (I'll admit it, the night before I was still wondering if this was the smartest idea in the world!!!) I took her to school and bent down on her level and said, "Jada, Mommy will be back after school is done, ok?" To which she looked at me and said, "Momma Cry?" I said, "Oh no, Momma's not going to cry!" (I was only convincing myself you know!!)

I took her inside the school, showed her her locker, and her teacher. And she spied kids playing on the other side of the room and off she went. She didn't look back - I THINK that's the way we want it, right!?!?!?

Even Chloe didn't want me to take her without her coming with us!! Chloe privately asked me, "Mom, who will talk for her when no one understands??" I didn't admit that I wondered the same thing. Chloe has the uncanny ability to always know what Jada is saying or needing - she is so sweet to Jada.

But I am thrilled she had a good day. I want her to love school and I pray that this year gives her just what she needs - whether it be speech or confidence - whatever it is God knows that she needs.

We are blessed with a wonderful teacher that knows a lot about Jada and is one of her many cheerleaders. God is so good that way - He just continues to bless us with people to love on our little ones.

So when I asked Jada what she did at school she told me, "Draw, Snack, Slide." Sounds like the perfect preschool day to me too!!

Oh, gotta run - the boys just said that it is time for the traditional "after school hugs" and I don't want to miss out on this!!!

The Whole Family at the Park

2010-09-06T14:44:00.003-05:00

Yes, sometimes we ALL go to the same place! And that is when it gets a little loud, and a little chaotic, but a WHOLE LOT of fun!!!

Love that "static hair"!!

Even big brothers need pushes.

The Lookout Man!

One Year Ago....

2010-08-29T16:43:00.009-05:00

Exactly one year ago we were in agony - literal agony! We knew we needed to travel SOON to go and get Jada or everything in our adoption file would need to be renewed - we were looking at thousands of dollars to renew all of that but if God would move mountains, that would all be forgotten and we could go and get Jada. He did it - we had only a few days notice, but He put it all in place and with just a few days to pack and get everyone in order, we were off.

I have been thinking on that a lot lately - this time last year I was wondering what God was going to do. I was worried about a little girl that had so many "unknowns" to her. I was fearful to leave our four children and travel all the way around the world YET AGAIN to add to our already-busy family. I remember it well - all of the unknowns and fears. And yet, I'd do it again tomorrow if God called me. Has it been easy? Wow - if you read my blog at all, you'll know we've had HUGE hurdles - beginning with my lovely blood clot that formed while in China!! But God has worked in it all - and I pray it's only to bring glory to Him.

What I think on most though is the little girl that I easily could have never gotten to know. The day we got to meet Jada for the first time I remember saying to Joe, "There is nothing in there - she's an empty shell." She didn't talk, she didn't look at us - it was scary. I prayed and asked God for ANYTHING - any sign to tell us to take her home - little did I know that Joe was praying the same thing - and we both felt He showed us nothing. We felt alone - scared - worried - I can hardly put it into words. We felt we had clearly followed His path and yet at the end was a little girl that was so empty that she was almost frightening to us. (This coming from someone that has seen ALL kinds of kids - I have worked with kids for over 20 years - but I had never seen anything like this.) I remember the day we took her back to the government office to sign the papers and we had another family there from the U.S. that was giving their little girl back and saying they could not take her. They were beside themselves - it literally hurt them to say no, but her needs were so far beyond what they could care for that they felt they had to give her back - they could not take her home. My heart broke for them - what horrible pain - and yet, a part of me totally understood - I, too, was given a little girl that seemed FAR WORSE than what I had envisioned. I remember that part of me that thought - it would just be easier right now to say No, and head back home - empty-handed and sad, and yet with far less to worry about.

BUT I am SO glad God intervened - He gave us no reason to NOT take her home - that is what we kept coming back to. We had been called, this little one needed a home, and we could do that. I kept looking for a glimmer in her eye - anything to show that she was "there" - that she was ok. Now, almost a year later, we have seen it. We have seen her "glimmer", there is a little girl in there that only needed to be let out to live. A little girl that makes funny jokes even with very limited speech. A little girl that amazes us with her zest for life after all she has been through. A little girl that is far more resilient than her own mom could ever be! She has taught me so much - about myself, about life, and about God. I am glad God never gives up on me - just like we have never given up on her. I am glad He brought us on this journey to watch our little blossom unfold and bloom. All I can say is "Thank you God, for what you've called us to. Amazing."

Never Underestimate....

2010-08-25T21:39:00.004-05:00

I don't think there is even an appropriate intro for this video. Just watch and absorb.

My Better Half

2010-08-09T18:15:00.004-05:00

I spend a lot of time at our local hospital - Jada is seen there at least 3 times a week - and that makes for a lot of "waiting time" for mom. Today I saw a dear couple come in - they were also waiting for therapy - it was for the wife. I would say they were in their 80's and I am guessing the wife had had a stroke. Her husband just kept singing her praises - how far she had come, and was even reminiscing with one of the therapists back to when they started therapy - how she couldn't do much at all then. But what got me was after the therapist left, he was talking to her, and she was so confused - she didn't recognize her therapist's name even - and yet he felt she had really come so far. He was so patient with her, so loving and kept encouraging her. I am sure she is a lot of work for him - I see them often in passing when I am there for therapy visits, so I know he stays busy running her for visits. I am sure he didn't plan on this happening to them, and I'm sure he doesn't love it. It isn't how he had hoped to spend those "glory years" with his love. But it made me think - I need to go home tonight and MAKE SURE I tell my husband how much I appreciate him. We just never know what tomorrow holds.

I felt guilty after seeing them - I spend WAY TOO much time focused on the daily frustrations and not as much time on the big picture. It just made me want to encourage others to do the same - we have friends that are choosing divorce over trying to work it out. That is hard - it is hard to see them go through it, it is hard to watch their kids see Mom and Dad split apart - it's hard on so many levels. We have to focus on the positives - are there going to be rough spots - oh man, probably a ton!! Don't ask my kids - they will tell you that Dad and Mom argue often. I was humiliated the day Chloe asked for prayer in Sunday School because Mom and Dad were mad at each other. But what a great eye-opener that was for me. Things were hard at home, we were struggling, but we CAN work through that - we have to make it work.

My parents joke that they were worried that Joe and I may not even get married the night before our wedding day - we are both very strong willed - both first borns - ugh, we have many strikes against us habitating peacefully!! But I wouldn't trade my husband - I am truly blessed. And I am choosing to focus on that - even when I want to feel sorry for myself for having to live with a man with such HORRIBLE habits! (Said in jest!!) Take time to focus on those positive traits - I had a very wise female friend that told me, "Becky, get the notebook out - remember and tell yourself WHY you love this man God gave you." She was absolutely right - I did not marry a perfect man (good thing or he'd be done with me for sure!!!) but I married an amazing one!!

He puts up with my lack of cooking skills - let's face it - that is huge. He comes home from work and often cooks dinner for us - now that might be so that he can eat something that is edible, but hey, he does it. He send me an email every Friday with a menu plan and fun ideas for the weekend. Do you know what that shows? (Well, it could show that he just plain hopes to eat that weekend!!) It shows that he is thinking about us and cares for us. He takes time to plan for us - so that his family knows they are thought of and cared for.

This same man has a spreadsheet - he has kept it for years now, and lists on it ideas for birthdays/Christmas for each child and myself - and not only that, he lists what we ended up purchasing so we have something to compare to for next year. That is a gift- a Dad that cares and takes the time to make his family a priority. He knows my love language - VERA BRADLEY - just kidding, I'll take computer/tech items as well!! :) While I say that in jest - I am really not kidding - he takes the time to KNOW me, he knows that when Mother's Day rolls around - if he brings me a Vera Gift Bag, that will make my day!! The last time he brought one home, he said, "I know you didn't have a summer pattern so I found one for you." WOW - that means a lot! I'm not all that savvy when it comes to fashion, but he took the time to even scope out "summer styles" - how kind is that!?!? Or the camera lens he bought for a holiday - that spoke volumes to me - he knows I enjoy that and would savor that gift. And although the gifts are fun - it's FAR more than that - it's the time and thought behind them that means the most to me.

I could go on and on - he wouldn't like it - but I could. Joe is a gift - I need to realize that more often. After watching this dear couple today, it reminded me that really our time together is SO short - I am grateful for the gift God has given me in my husband. If you needed to hear this reminder today - it's ok, I've been there many days!! But take some time and focus on those positives - they ARE there and you only have to choose to find them.

It's That Time Again!!!

2010-07-27T23:41:00.002-05:00

Sweet Corn Time!!

Even Jada is getting on board - and that is hard when 1) You don't want to touch the corn cob when you eat it and 2) You have to pick out the kernels from your teeth after each bite! But it must be good if you refuse to eat the BLT but will eat 3 ears of corn instead!!

Crunch!!

Sensory House

2010-07-23T15:41:00.002-05:00

One of the MANY things we are learning on this long road with Jada is that what at first may have looked like Autism, may not necessarily be that - now it still could be, we haven't ruled anything out - but she seems to have many symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder. If you are anything like Joe and I, you hear that and go WHAT!?!? Yep, didn't take me long to find books, websites, and more. We are learning TONS and totally revamping how we work with Jada. If our findings are correct - we need to "talk" to her brain differently. We need to speak to her senses the way they need to be spoken to. When she says "Ow" even when brushing her hair - I am learning that it does really hurt her - that is how her brain processes it - as pain. She says "Ow" when you clip her fingernails. And even winces when you rip paper out of a notebook - her brain says all of those normal, everyday things cause her pain. So we try to work through this - with therapies of all sorts. We have started Auditory Therapy through our Physical Therapist. She listens to carefully-orchestrated music twice a day- there is a set time limit and set CD's - even special headphones - all to hope that her auditory sense can be re-trained or conditioned to different sounds. Along with all of that, we do brushing - yep, all new to us too - but we take plastic soft brushes and literally "scrub" her arms and legs 3-4 times daily. What is amazing is that she LOVES it - when she is most upset, she even brings us the brushes. She knows they help her calm and they are what her sensory system needs.

We have invested in many things that touch her "vestibular" sense - balance - this one is HUGE for her - she is not good with balance - even walking was hard for her when we first got her. So we got a sit n spin; round-bottomed chairs that she sits in and plays, rolls around, etc.(called Bilibo); our friends gave us a slide AND a merry go round - which she LOVES; another friend gave us an exercise trampoline; we found those big bouncy balls with handles that she jumps around on for HOURS; and just recently we purchased a hammock swing.

What I love is that all of things could sure add up dollar-wise, but I just love to grab bargains wherever I can! This Swing is providing HOURS of fun and it was such a deal!! We were going to hang it outside, but I loved Joe's idea of hanging it in the basement so she can use it all year long. (And no, she isn't the only one using it - the boys think they need vestibular therapy as well!!) Even the swing, I was thinking a hammock swing would be so expensive, but at a class I was taking, the instructor mentioned it to me as an aside (she has a nephew who is autistic and she bought one for him). She told me where to find it cheap - I just love that - all the cool ways we hear about things or hear of yet another idea that may help Jada right now. We don't live in a big home - but we are finding creative ways to store them and watch her use them daily. I put this out there hoping these things we are using/finding for Jada may help someone else OR that someone may feel like sharing more ideas. I am getting more and more nervous as we approach preschool - we work on things like colors and numbers daily, but still no retention. We aren't giving up, but we can see that it may be a very long road. I am grateful for the immense support out there - God just keeps providing - sometimes we feel like we are floundering in the dark to do what is best for Jada, but He is good to keep the night light on - He gives us just the light we need to take the next step!

Future Architect

2010-07-13T17:38:00.002-05:00

Chloe is building away and stops to put on these lovely glasses. Then she turns to me and says, "In case you are wondering Mom, these help my creative side." I DID NOT MAKE THAT UP!! She just cracks me up!

In case you are wondering what she is building with - we LOVE these!! Honestly, almost every birthday we get another set - we build for hours with these!!

Happy 4th!

2010-07-04T19:16:00.003-05:00

Since we got pictures of Chloe's first 4th of July - we thought Jada needed a turn too.

So here she is - Proud to be an American!!

Big Sister got in on the action too!!

Sisters on the 4th...

THE STORM

2010-06-27T21:50:00.003-05:00

Two nights this past week we have had sirens - possible tornadoes - which resulted in the flood of the century to which many of us spent hours shop vac-cing our basements. Last night, no sirens, but it sounded horrible outside - quarter size hail, high winds, you get the picture. Well, maybe you don't until you see these:

Our Backyard - part of it anyway....

Notice the neighbor's tree across the street - you can almost see the path the wind was on!

Joe's poor corn - and he had just said the day before how great it was looking....

Neighbor's tree that fell into our flower bed, bushes, and trees. This was a very tall tree - it was a ton of work to get out of there!

Close up of neighbor's tree.

Neighbor's Mailbox -

Trampoline down the road a block.
All in all - what a mess our city is at the moment - an impressive storm, to say the least.

The Journal

2010-06-25T22:42:00.003-05:00

This is Chloe's latest thing - she journals EVERYTHING - I mean everything!! If you happen to cross her path on any given day, you may be part of "the journal". It just makes me smile - she takes her journaling seriously - I love that about her.

Ferris Wheel

2010-06-23T21:49:00.003-05:00

During our Tulip Festival - the local paper (Sioux County Democrat) captured this photo and had it in the paper. This is Chloe, and her best friend (as she tells me daily) Caeleigh, along with Caeleigh's Dad, our pastor. I played with the color a bit and ended up with this. Chloe's first Ferris Wheel ride and she LOVED it!!

Birthday Girl

2010-06-21T00:02:00.000-05:00

There is a special little girl that brings "summer" to our home every June 21 - our little Chloe turns 6 today. This is a day that brings so many feelings to me - overall I am overwhelmingly grateful for a God that put this all together - how He orchestrated bringing just the right precious girl from China to fit in our home all the way around the world. But I am also grateful for the birthmother that chose to give life - she took the hard road culturally - and for that I am also grateful. The feelings this day always evokes for me are hard to put into words - but our Chloe is a blessing beyond words - she is a gift.

I love being a mom to this little one - she brightens my day constantly through her words and actions. She makes us laugh and reminds us that it is ok to cry;

her quick humor never ceases to amaze us; and her love and patience for her sister is a precious gift that the two of them can share.

Happy Birthday Chloe - we are so glad to call you our daughter!!

Hope is Fading

2010-06-11T12:33:00.001-05:00

This is a student project that Allan Rosenow made - as a member of a family with 13 special needs adoptions - this child really knows the meaning of adoption - I was touched by this. Pray you will be too.....

Hope is Fading from Allan Rosenow on Vimeo.

Being a Mom

2010-05-26T16:49:00.003-05:00

I am feeling VERY inadequate. There is nothing easy about being a mom - nothing easy about being a mom to five kids - and nothing easy when you throw in one child that needs a lot of extra time and attention. We had no idea that when we brought little Jada home that our world would literally turn upside-down. My time is consumed by Jada and her appointments right now. In a good week, we can have 5-6 different appointments just for Jada and that doesn't include running our boys back and forth to band, running the girls to their weekly Kindermusik, our jobs, church commitments, etc. I have to say that sometimes I literally run from one thing to the next and leave at 9 in the morning and do not get home until 3 or 4 in the afternoon - for this mom that has thrived on tranquility, orderliness, and a routine - this is pushing me to the limit!!! But what I love is how God provides. (I am not trying to complain - I realize TONS of Moms do this regularly, but so far, God has not made this our lifestyle and I have been grateful for that- so when He turned our world and our running began, it took me a bit of "getting used to!")

Today was one of those days - 9:00 speech appt, 11:00 therapist (a half hour away), and 2:00 dentist - all for Jada today - I was, once again, feeling bad that my other kids don't get Mom most of the day. So when I ran home between two appts. and found my boys sitting in the living room playing Pick Up Sticks with Chloe I was nearly brought to tears. I don't know too many 13, 14, and 15 year old boys that would play games with their 5 year old sister. When I praised them and told them how much it meant to me, one of the boys said, "Well Mom, we noticed how you were very busy and we were afraid Chloe might feel kind of left out. So we asked her what games she would like to play to help cheer up her day." I tell you what - I was left speechless. I share it to say that, once again, God fills in the gaps. He leaves me speechless sometimes - where I am weak, He is strong.

One Million Arrows

2010-05-23T08:01:00.000-05:00

When I was sent One Million Arrows to read for a blog tour, I approached it like almost any other read. Boy was I wrong! I got into it just one chapter and stopped - this was one my husband and I HAD to savor together! We read it out loud together crying and saying "Amen" the whole way through. Julie Ferwerda has such a powerful idea with One Million Arrows that my husband and I are STILL talking about it. As directors of ministries to parents and children at our church, this is going to be the first thing we promote next fall to our families AND with our workers - because we are not just raising children, we are sharpening and refining arrows to send out into our world. We were convicted, we were challenged, and we were encouraged. This book not only convinces you that SOMETHING needs to be done to change the way we parent, but it gives you all the tools to do it. What an amazing challenge - it is a MUST read for parents that want to send out their arrows into the world sharpened and ready to be effective. Here is what someone else has said about the book:

Will the world change our children...or will our children change the world? Time
is short and lives are at stake. Right now, God is inviting our families to
become part of a bigger story—a vision that will engage hearts to make a radical
difference. One Million Arrows is an inspirational call to raise our kids to
impact their culture, community, and world for Christ. If we want our kids to
discover their purpose, if we want them to live with passion for the Kingdom, if
we want our family to go down in His-Story, accept the mission...and leave a
mark for eternity.

DO not miss this incredible book - I am thrilled to be a part of this book/blog tour for a book I believe so strongly in!

Soccer Star

2010-05-19T22:09:00.003-05:00

This Spring has been Chloe's first soccer season and, to put it mildly, she is LOVING it!!

I asked Joe if maybe she will be our hidden sports talent - to which he laughed and said, "Only if you like to watch a ballerina on the field." So this may not be her life's calling, but she's loving it. One week left and she is sad to see it end. Here she is in action!

She's aggressive - yep!

Water break!

I see budding talent here!!

Cheerleaders!!

Jada's Big Day!!

2010-05-13T16:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Jada~

Our Precious Gift Turns 4 Today!!!

Attachment

2010-05-11T20:39:00.004-05:00

We started Jada with a play therapist who also specializes in attachment and bonding - it was all for her you know - NOT something Joe nor I needed! We felt that it was worth going to try - yet another person that might have the key to unlock our little one. Our initial thoughts on this wise man was that we could finally breathe a big sigh of relief - he was not another doctor that looked at us and said he was baffled by her behavior - he looked at us with tenderness in his eyes and said, "I've seen it before - all of it." He encouraged us with the progress we have made and sent us home with two books to read (I told you I liked this guy!!).

We went back today for what I thought was his first time with Jada (like I said, Joe NOR I need this therapy). He promptly took us all in his office, had Jada cuddle up on Mom's lap with her feet in Dad's lap and it began. It was a journey like no other. With my almost-four-year-old snuggled up on my lap, we took turns feeding each other a pretzel --literally feeding each other - it's like birdie feeding and it's to build trust. However strange it felt, I put that aside and nearly had tears running down my cheeks. This little one that has spent the last three and a half years of her life with no mommy to feed her was enjoying every minute of her Dad and Mom feeding her pretzels - just like a baby bird with her mouth wide open - except when she was smiling so much she couldn't open very wide.

But the big ride came when our therapist had me tell Jada what it would have been like if she had come out of my tummy. I tell you what, I have never had to think SO hard. I had to tell her what it felt like the day she came out of my tummy, what I thought when she came out of my tummy, what it felt like to hold her minutes after she was born. I was doing all I could to hold myself together as I told my little one "our birth story". She was beaming the whole time - I mean truly beaming - her eyes never left mine - she was soaking it all in. She had a birth story and so did I. I felt for the very first time, that this little one was a part of me. Some feel that with a referral picture - I never did. Some feel it when they are handed their little one - I never did. Some feel it after they've been home a bit - I haven't yet - until today. This little girl, that I have never doubted that God put with our family, and whom I love dearly has just never felt like "mine." I can't explain it any other way - I could follow God's call - I could raise her and shower her with love - but I did not feel that bond as strongly as I had felt it with my other kids......until I told her about the day she was "born". That is not an easy story to tell - but what it did to my heart was amazing.

We then went on to tell her about the day we flew to China and were given one of the best gifts ever!! Her adoption birth story - it is all a part of her greater story. Although she never came out of my tummy - she and I both needed to hear that story. I wasn't the only one crying either - Joe was choking up telling her what he felt the day she was "born". And all the while, I told you Joe NOR I need this therapy - I hang my head in shame - I am never beyond taking help, God puts people in your path to help you. This is another one of those instances. It was an amazing experience. We watched as he pressed her hands and feet on black construction paper to make her prints - just like on the day she was born. Jada will be four in two days - we do not have tiny hand and feet prints in a baby book - but we now have almost-four-year-old hands and size 9 feet prints to remember the day...the day we relived her "coming out of mommy's tummy."

It makes me wonder - who is this therapy for anyway?? We did it for Jada but I see that it may speak volumes to Dad and Mom too....